《Seeking the Flying Sword Path》


 1 Return

    Chapter 1: Return


    Translator: GGPEditor: GGP


    Jiang Prefecture was one of the world¡¯s nineteen prefectures. It lay next to the East Sea, and contained many of the realm¡¯s lakes.


    This happened one day in the Jiang Prefecture, in Grand Dominance City.


    Jinglou Street, situated in the western regions of Grand Dominance City, was packed with people and bustling with activity.


    "It¡¯s been six years." A cotton-clothed youth with a sword hanging by his waist lead a horse down the street. "I¡¯m finally back. After being away for so long, home is indeed still the best."


    Trot! Trot! Trot!


    The sound of hastened hooves rang. A youth dressed in gorgeous clothes was riding atop a large horse that galloped through the crowded street. With as much agility as they could muster, people quickly leaped out of the horse¡¯s way. Chasing after him were quite a few servants and guards who implored him: "Young Master, slow down. Slow down!"


    When the cotton-clothed youth saw this, he led his horse to the side and watched as the youth in gorgeous clothes rode past.


    "Whose brat is that? Oh, that¡¯s right, I¡¯ve been gone for six years. Six years ago, that kid was only seven or eight." The cotton-clothed youth smiled before proceeding forward.


    In his familiar hometown, he even found a couple of shops that he remembered.


    "It has been exactly six years. When I left, I was only fifteen. It¡¯s been quite a while and I¡¯ve changed a lot," the plain-clothed youth lamented.


    When he was fifteen, he met with success at every turn and he was full of spirit!


    He was labeled the number one person among Grand Dominance City¡¯s younger generation.


    However, after leaving home and wandering for six years, he realized how truly childish he used to be.


    ...


    As he continued down the path, he saw familiar shops, restaurants, rivers, and bridges.


    Finally, he led his horse to a manor.


    Fear started to creep up on him as he approached the manor. He took a deep breath, and walked forward and knocked on the door.


    "Creak."


    The door opened only slightly, as an old man poked his head out of the crack. Immediately afterward, his eyes opened wide, "Second Young Master!" The young man before him dressed plainly and didn¡¯t look particularly extraordinary. However, the old man had watched the second young master, Qin Yun, grow up. He only needed a glance to recognize his second young master!


    "Uncle Li!" Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "Second Young Master is back, Second Young Master is back!" Old Li yelled out. His voice resonated throughout the manor as he pushed open the manor¡¯s doors.


    "Give that to me. I¡¯ll lead the horse." Old Li took the reins of the horse.


    "Yun''er, Yun''er!" The entire manor was in an upheaval as a middle-aged woman came running out. Behind her were quite a few female maids that quickly followed. Upon seeing Qin Yun at the door, the middle-aged woman broke out in tears of excitement.


    "Mother!"


    Qin Yun¡¯s eyes winced as he ran to her.


    The middle-aged woman carefully looked over her son, touching his elbow and face as she said, "Great, great! It¡¯s so great that you¡¯ve come home. Huh, you¡¯ve grown taller."


    "Second Young Master, Madam has shed many tears for you. Every day, she prays before the bodhisattva for your safe return," a female butler quickly spoke up.


    "For me to return only now, I haven''t been a filial son." Qin Yun gave his mother a long look as well. He noticed that she not only had more white hair, but also more creases at the edges of her eyes. With a pained heart, he came to the realization that his mother was already almost fifty.


    "Don¡¯t say that. What matters is that you are now back." Although his mother¡¯s eyes were full of tears, they were tears of joy. She quickly commanded, "Quick, inform the master, as well as first young master. "


    "Yes."


    The female butler quickly left to follow her orders.


    ...


    The whole Qin Manor was in celebration as the head of Qin Manor, Qin Liehu also came back.


    "Master."


    "Master." The servants and maids in the manor all bowed respectfully; however, they were all bursting with excitement. The servants were also extremely happy that the second young master had returned.


    The single-armed master nodded. His eyes shined like lightning and there was a single blade at his waist. His imposing presence commanded the respect of his servants and maids. He was the owner of the Qin Manor, Qin Liehu. He was also one of the three silver-badge constables in Grand Dominance City.


    "Father." Qin Yun and his mother, Changlan, both came out to welcome him.


    "Yun''er." When the single armed man, Qin Liehu, saw his son, his eyes warmed and moistened.


    Mothers openly worry when their sons travel the world. Although Qin Liehu didn¡¯t say anything, he was similarly concerned the whole time. He knew that he needed to let Qin Yun go out and explore the world to have a brighter future, but that didn¡¯t stop him from worrying.


    He feared that his son would perish and never return.


    This world was massive, with countless tall mountains and deep valleys that were full of monsters. Exploring the world was not an easy task.


    "It¡¯s great that you¡¯re back. Splendid." Qin Liehu looked at his son. Clearly, he was much more mature than he was before. His aura was also a lot more concentrated.


    "Have you broken through?" Qin Liehu suddenly asked. He knew that his son was following the cultivation path of immortals. The difficulty of obtaining any success in cultivation was indescribable.


    "I managed to break through two and a half years ago," Qin Yun said with a smile.


    Qin Liehu¡¯s eyes lit up. Breaking through meant the transformation of a fish into a dragon.


    "Good. Very good. I, Qin Liehu, have an incredible son." Qin Liehu was extremely excited. There were great implications that resulted from this news, matters so serious that he didn''t dare discuss them with his wife.


    "Can''t the two of you go inside instead of talking here?" Qin Yun''s mother, Changlan said.


    "Yes, let¡¯s go in and have a seat." Qin Liehu quickly said.


    ...


    After spending some time with his parents, Qin Yun heard voices coming from outside.


    "Second Brother! Second Brother! Second Brother!" A call came from far away, filled with excitement.


    "Brother." Qin Yun rose up. "Father, Mother, I¡¯ll go welcome him."


    "Go ahead, you and your brother haven¡¯t seen each other in six years," Changlan said with a smile.


    Qin Yun quickly exited the hall and immediately saw a large family walking over from afar. A colorful-robed youth with his beautiful wife and two children, one male and the other female, were coming towards him.


    "Second Brother." When the colorful-robed youth saw Qin Yun, he ran over excitedly and hugged him.


    "Brother," Qin Yun hugged his brother back.


    His relationship with his brother had always been very good. Back when the Qin family was still rather insignificant, they both grew up in the village and went through many hardships. Qin Yun was still very young then, but his brother was already a teenager and would take care of him.


    "You brat, you were gone for six years! Before you left, didn¡¯t you say that you would only be gone for three? And then, years later, you send a letter saying that you would stay outside for another three years?" said the colorful-robed youth as he couldn¡¯t control his feelings. "Three years, on top of the first three years. Seriously, you made the whole family worried."


    "It¡¯s all my fault," Qin Yun quickly said. "Hi, Sister! Brother, are these two little fellows the ''Shuyan'' and ''Shubing'' that you mentioned in your letter? Hello my dear nephew and niece, aren¡¯t you a cute pair?" As Qin Yun said so, he bent down and pinched the faces of the two children, causing the children to cling to their parents¡¯ legs in fear.


    "Greet your uncle," the colorful-robed youth said. "Don¡¯t be afraid, what is there to be afraid of? This is your uncle, stop hesitating and greet him."


    "Uncle."


    The two children were around three or four, and still easily impressed.


    "Haha, I have two protection charms here with me. You can take them with you. Keep them carefully." Qin Yun had prepared for this moment long ago, and took out two colorful pouches. From them, he took out two jade talismans. They were completely white and had intricate carvings on them. The design gave anyone who looked at them a soothing feeling.


    The colorful-robed youth, Qin An, was quite knowledgeable and knew that the two jade talismans were extraordinary. "Second Brother, that¡¯s too much."


    "Wear it around, it¡¯s good for children," Qin Yun said.


    ...


    At noon, the whole family was together and eating an extravagant lunch. The maids happily brought up plate after plate of food. The Qin family treated its servants and maids very well.


    Qin Yun happily enjoyed the lunch with his parents and brother. He reveled in the happy, familial atmosphere.


    "Sir, sir!"


    After lunch, a constable came to the manor and yelled at the top of his lungs.


    Everyone in the hall heard this.


    "Yun''er just returned, can¡¯t you take a break for a day or two?" Changlan was not too happy about the turn of events.


    "Let me ask what happened first." Qin Liehu said before standing up and walking outside.


    The constable at the door was almost eight feet tall. He was strongly-built and held a thick steel staff. At a glance, the staff was at least over a hundred pounds. Just brandishing it around could easily shatter a wall. However, this burly constable was patiently waiting outside.


    "Old Xu, what happened?" Qin Liehu walked up close before asking in a hushed tone. Earlier that day, he had instructed his subordinates to not disturb him unless it was something important. After all, his son that had been away for six years had just returned.


    "Sir, I didn¡¯t want to come and disturb you. However, the county governor personally commanded that you come. There¡¯s something important that might occupy you for the next one or two days." Constable Xu shook his head as he quickly said.


    "The county governor? One to two days?" Qin Liehu furrowed his brows.


    The county governor was in control of all military and political power in Grand Dominance City. As a result of demons and monsters wreaking havoc, he had the authority to persecute any official under the seventh grade without permission from his superiors. Thus, no one within Grand Dominance County dared to question the county governor¡¯s authority.


    Qin Liehu returned to the hall.


    "The county governor has summoned me. I probably won¡¯t be back for two days." Qin Liehu put on his coat and hung a blade by his waist.


    "Be careful." Changlan quickly cautioned him.


    "I¡¯ll walk you out, Father." Qin Yun quickly stood up.


    "Walk me out? Go be with your mother and the rest." Qin Liehu said to his son as Qin Yun accompanied him out.


    "Second Young Master, it¡¯s been six years since I last saw you. It''s been a long time," Constable Xu smiled as he said.


    "Uncle Xu, your Wind Fire Staff has gotten bigger. I reckon your strength has improved greatly," said Qin Yun.


    "It¡¯s not worth mentioning. Seriously, it''s nothing at all," Constable Xu said.


    Next to Qin Yun, who had been crowned the best of the younger generation in Grand Dominance City when he was only fifteen, Constable Xu naturally felt humbled.


    "Father, is it serious, considering you can¡¯t come back for two days? Do you need my help?" Qin Yun asked.


    Qin Liehu looked at his son before saying, " Relax, the strongest force in Grand Dominance City is the government!"


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun followed his father until they reached the manor''s entrance, where there were already horses prepared. Qin Liehu and Constable Xu both rode off.


    As he watched his father leave, Qin Yun circulated the Quintessential Essence within him to begin the casting of Dharma powers.


    "Dharma Eyes, behold!"


    Deep in Qin Yun¡¯s pupils, Dharma patterns were condensing. One would not notice any changes on the surface, but through Qin Yun''s eyes, the world was changing drastically.


    It was already afternoon with the sun hanging high. However, under Qin Yun¡¯s gaze, the sky was full of azure-colored wisps. Riding in the distance, his father, Qin Liehu, had a few odd wispy auras lingering around him. There were pink ones, deep green ones, and blood red ones¡­ There was a total of six different types of aura wisps. However, each of them was very weak and seemed like they would disappear with time.


    "As one of the three silver-badged constables, Father probably encounters monsters every once in a while. It is completely normal for him to be slightly tainted by demonic auras." Qin Yun was relieved. The demonic auras only stained the surface of his father¡¯s body and had yet to fully infiltrate. There were no hidden adverse effects.


    Qin Yun turned around and returned to the manor.


    With his Dharma Eyes, he saw that humans had their own distinctive auras, while plants had very different auras. All beings had their own auras and the strength of the auras varied. Nothing was concealed from his Dharma Eyes.


    Obviously, when it came to the vital auras in his family manor, other than his own, his father was definitely at the top! The maids and servants had much weaker auras.


    "Yun''er, come over here. Don¡¯t worry about your father, he often needs to tend to official business." Changlan called out from within the hall.


    Qin Yun turned his head and looked at the hall.


    Thanks to his Dharma Eyes, the auras of everyone inside the hall appeared.


    His mother, sister-in-law, his nephew and niece all had normal auras. However, the aura exuded by his brother¡­.


    "Huh?" Qin Yun''s heart leaped.


    He saw that his colorful-robed brother had a relatively weak aura. Furthermore, a thicker, more sinister green aura was seeping into Qin An¡¯s body, intertwining with his own aura.


    "Demonic aura! What a thick demonic aura! It has already penetrated deep into his organs. It is definitely not the first or second time this has happened to my brother. My brother¡¯s vital aura is extremely weak and, if this continues, it will not be hidden any longer. He''ll immediately fall sick and die!" Qin Yun¡¯s heart palpitated as it filled with anger and killing intent. "Who is trying to kill my brother?"


    Qin Yun¡¯s heart was full of shock, anger, and a hint of lingering fear!


    If he had returned just half a year later, he probably would not have seen his brother ever again.

 2 Capture

    Chapter 2: Capture


    Translator: GGPEditor: GGP


    At dusk, Qin Yun''s brother, Qin An, reluctantly left the manor. Together with his wife and children, he headed south of the city on a horse-drawn carriage.


    The night descended.


    Qin Yun changed into black clothes and tracked his brother to his manor. There, he stood hidden in the shadows.


    "According to the mark that I left on brother, this is it." Qin Yun looked at the manor. "This is actually the first time that I¡¯ve been to brother¡¯s manor. I would have never imagined that demons would be the reason why."


    With a step, he flew more than a hundred feet into the manor''s interior, where he landed on the roof of a pavilion. Silently, he half-crouched as he surveyed the entire manor.


    The manor was a couple of acres big and there were quite a few servants on patrol. In certain dark recesses, there were even expert guards that stood vigilant.


    "Dharma Eyes, behold!"


    Dharmic patterns condensed deep within Qin Yun¡¯s eyes and he once again opened his Dharma Eyes.


    Under the Dharma Eyes'' gaze, the vital auras of the two hidden expert guards and the six servants that were openly patrolling could be clearly seen. Qin Yun also saw the vital auras of his brother, Qin An, as well as his brother''s wife and children. They were all fast asleep. As long as an aura was within his Dharma Eyes'' range, even if there were buildings that blocked his gaze, it could not hide from him.


    "Found it." Qin Yun quickly found the thick green demonic aura. It originated from one of the rooms that the maids resided in.


    Sou!


    A blurry figure silently traveled more than a hundred feet to the room¡¯s door and gave it a light push. The lock on the door easily opened.


    ...


    Inside the room.


    A small girl dressed in thin, skin-tight clothes was sitting on her bed with her brows furrowed.


    "Hmph! It¡¯ll take another three months before the demonic aura merges with his three souls and seven spirits. Only then can I consider it a success." A terrifying bloodlust aura surfaced in her eyes, "Counting the six months that I''ve already spent here, I will have been the maid of a lowly merchant for nine months? Once the leader¡¯s grand plans are complete, I¡¯ll eat all of those that have cursed at me or bullied me!"


    A bloodthirsty, powerful demoness had to work as a maid, being hollered at for half a year. How could she not be angry?


    All she could do was endure and wait for her work to bear fruit.


    "When it¡¯s past midnight, I can absorb Qin An''s Yang aura again once he is completely asleep." The young girl closed her eyes and started to wait patiently and silently.


    Suddenly¡ª


    The door was pushed opened silently.


    Despite the door not producing any sound, the girl could sense it and her eyes snapped open. Immediately, she saw that a black-dressed youth had pushed the door open. The black-dressed youth casually walked in and, while he did so, he emitted an invisible wave.


    "Seal!"


    As Qin Yun entered, he cast a Dharmic spell. A barrier of light flashed into existence, enveloping both Qin Yun and the girl within the room. Obviously, the light barrier was invisible to the naked eye.


    The ''Sealing Spell'' could seal the surrounding area and trap enemies! It could also isolate the space within the barrier from the outside world. Others couldn¡¯t hear was happening inside. Finally, it could even seal the enemy¡¯s strength. This was an extremely impressive Dharmic spell.


    Qin Yun closed the door nonchalantly.


    "Dharmic spell?" The girl¡¯s heart palpitated.


    Dharmic spells were techniques founded by accomplished Daoists or Buddhists after they gained enlightenment over the natural forces of the heaven and earth. Dharmic spells were not taught to just anyone, and the conditions to cast them were extremely, extremely difficult. The barriers to entry were incredibly high. Just his being able to cast a Dharmic spell showed how terrifying the black-dressed youth was.


    "So it¡¯s only a cat demoness," Qin Yun softly said as he looked at the young girl. Thanks to the Dharma Eyes, he could see the girl''s true form.


    The girl was still wearing skin-tight clothing as she got off the bed in trepidation. Standing there with her bare feet, she said weakly, "Senior, please spare me. Spare me! Although I have been in the Qin family premises, I have not done any harm."


    "Have not done any harm? Then, why is this family¡¯s master, Qin An, full of your demonic aura? It has even sunken deep into his organs?" Qin Yun wasn¡¯t in a hurry to act. He found many aspects of the situation to be curious. "If this continues, the master of this house, Qin An, will probably be bedridden in the near future. Medical help would likely prove fruitless and his only outcome would be death."


    "What," the girl was alarmed and tears started to well in her eyes. "I didn¡¯t. I never wanted to hurt Mister Qin."


    "No?" Qin Yun looked at her coldly. "But you are harming him."


    "No, I didn¡¯t. I didn¡¯t want to hurt him, I didn¡¯t know!" The girl was quick to blame herself, "Senior, I will not lie to you. Qin An and I truly love each other, so why would I dare hurt him? It¡¯s just that I¡¯m a demoness and couldn¡¯t bear to tell him. Perhaps my demonic aura has seeped into his body during intercourse?"


    "Intercourse?" Qin Yun sneered. "His Yang aura is so weak that it couldn¡¯t have just been intercourse. You have probably been deliberately absorbing his Yang aura, haven¡¯t you? You could have absorbed all of his Yang aura in one go, yet, you have been absorbing tiny amounts every time. What are your intentions?"


    The young demoness was very inwardly alarmed. "This young man appears to be very young, so I thought that he would be lacking in experience. Now my hopes of deceiving him and finding an opportunity to sneak away are gone. He actually managed to deduce that I¡¯ve been absorbing Yang aura."


    "I didn¡¯t hurt him, really!" the young girl cried out. "Senior, you must trust me!"


    "Humans and demons have been lovers before. How can mere intercourse result in the weakening of Yang aura to such an extent?" Qin Yun sneered. "At this point, it¡¯s better to speak the truth and stop getting caught in lies."


    "I, I don¡¯t know¡­" The young girl¡¯s tears fell as she grimaced in sorrow.


    However, without warning, she rushed to a window to her side. Her speed was so fast that she left afterimages. Her right hand also immediately became covered in fur, with sharp claws extending out. Her right claw swiped down violently, in an attempt to rip through the sealing light barrier.


    It was too fast!


    But Qin Yun, who was standing by the side of the door, was even quicker. He appeared next to the girl nearly instantaneously and stretched out his left hand to grab at her.


    The young girl attempted to dodge in panic. However, despite it being a seemingly ordinary left hand, she was unable to dodge it at all. The five fingers easily gripped onto her neck.


    At this point, the young girl had changed drastically. Her entire body was covered in long fur. There was even fur on her head. Her ears had become cat ears while her eyes had turned green. Her pupils transformed into vertical slits. Her mouth was also full of razor-sharp teeth and she attempted to struggle. However, large amounts of Quintessential Essence came surging out of Qin Yun¡¯s left hand before they went into the cat demoness''s body. Then, he cast a sealing spell in her body, immediately putting an end to any resistance.


    "Peng!" With a nonchalant toss, he threw the cat demoness to the ground.


    "Speak. Lying there in front of me is useless. Unless you say something that convinces me, I can be satisfied by kill you," Qin Yun looked at the girl.


    He had to understand why his brother was being harmed so viciously.


    Absorbing Yang aura was very common. Most demons would absorb lunar Yin aura for cultivation. But lone Yin did not lead to birth and solitary Yang did not foster growth, so there was a need to balance the two.


    The power of solar Yang was formidable. And the Yang aura of humans was the most effective. Absorbing it from humans greatly aided the cultivation of the demons. Thus, it was quite common for demons to absorb Yang aura. However, this demoness had spent half a year, only to absorb a minuscule amount each time? And while doing so, the demoness also pretended to be a maid? That was a huge waste of time. With that much time, the demoness could have absorbed the Yang aura from hundreds of people. Even if a portion of each person¡¯s Yang aura was absorbed, the cumulative effects would still be much better.


    "Speak." Qin Yun looked at the cat girl as an invisible bloodlust aura shrouded her.


    The cat demoness''s heart pounded. She could tell that the person in front of her had no lack of demon blood on his hand. He definitely wasn''t a greenhorn cultivator. With her life on the line, she thought, "Hiding it from him would only earn death. But if I just foolishly reveal it, I''ll probably still be killed! There¡¯s no time to think right now. I can only seek a way out of this peril."


    "Senior, you really do have a discerning eye. My puny tricks can¡¯t deceive you," the cat demoness said quickly. "The reason why I went through the great trouble to be a maid and only absorb a small amount of Yang aura each time is so that my demonic aura will gradually permeate him. Now, it has seeped into his organs and, in another two or three months, it would¡¯ve probably gotten into his soul."


    Qin Yun¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    "When the demonic aura seeps into the three souls and seven spirits, even an accomplished cultivator would be powerless to help him. At that time he would either be severely ill, or dead. Only I, the owner of the demonic aura, would be able to save him." The cat demoness continued, "From then on, his future would be in my hands."


    "A demonic slave?" Qin Yun¡¯s voice was ice cold.


    Once the demonic aura seeped into the souls, there really was no cure. One could only survive if the demonic aura''s owner willed it so.


    With one¡¯s life or death in the hands of a demon, they had no choice but to be a faithful servant to that demon.


    "It can¡¯t be counted as a demonic slave. If I wanted to, as the owner of the demonic aura, I could always extract and remove the demonic aura and return him to normal," the cat demoness said immediately.


    "Extract and remove the demonic aura? It has already seeped into his soul. Even if you were to extract the demonic aura strand by strand, that would still take several years, wouldn''t it? Qin An is just a mere merchant, and definitely not worth going through so much effort." Qin Yun coldly said, "Is it because of his father?"


    Qin An¡¯s father was Qin Liehu, who was one of the three silver-badge constables. He had a sizable influence in Grand Dominance City.


    "I am only carrying out orders from my leader," the cat demoness quickly said. "I don¡¯t know the reasons why."


    "Where is your leader?"


    "He¡¯s within Grand Dominance City." In hopes of living, the cat demoness answered honestly.


    "Bring me there." Qin Yun glared at the cat demoness.


    "Senior, I am willing to lead the way but I hope that you will spare my life. I am only a small demoness that was forced to do this." The cat demoness looked at Qin Yun.


    "Cut the crap. Lead the way." Qin Yun grabbed the cat demoness¡¯s shoulder, she could not put up any form of resistance.


    "Senior, if you won¡¯t spare me, then I''d rather die here." The cat demoness said as she gnashed her teeth.


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    The cat girl was making a huge gamble. She believed that the person before her wanted to save Qin An, and to do so he needed to know who the figure behind all of this was.


    Time slowly passed and the cat demoness closed her eyes and forcefully held her ground.


    "Alright, I consent to your request. As long as I am able to find the one behind this and confirm that he did indeed instruct you to do so, I can spare you," said Qin Yun.


    The cat demoness was delighted. She knew that the higher the cultivation of human cultivators, the more arrogant they were. Because of this, they valued their promises! A promise was worth its weight in gold. They would not renege on it easily.


    "Senior, thank you for showing mercy and letting me live. I will lead the way now," the cat demoness quickly said.


    Sou!


    Grabbing onto the cat girl¡¯s shoulder, Qin Yun left his brother¡¯s manor silently. The servants were still patrolling around the manor but they noticed nothing, let alone the fact that a cat demoness that had been among them for half a year, and was now being taken away.

 3 Monster Leader, Chu Yong

    Chapter 3: Monster Leader, Chu Yong


    Translator: GGPEditor: GGP


    Within moments, Qin Yun arrived outside a magnate''s manor with the restrained cat demoness in tow. He had sealed her demonic powers to ensure she couldn¡¯t escape. He hid with her in a shadow outside the manor walls.


    "It''s here. My leader is living in there," the cat demoness said in hushed tones.


    Qin Yun opened his Dharma Eyes and looked beyond the walls, into the manor.


    "No demons?" Qin Yun was perplexed. From his perspective, it looked like a normal magnate''s manor. He could not detect any demonic aura within.


    "Are you sure that your leader is living here?" Qin Yun used the sealing spell to put a light barrier around the cat girl and himself, preventing any sound from being transmitted.


    The cat girl nodded with great conviction, "Definitely! This manor might seem normal, and there is even a magnate living inside. But this manor is split into two portions, an inner sanctum and an external one. My leader and the others live in the inner sanctum. There''s even an underground palace within the inner sanctums of the manor. That is where my leader resides most of the time."


    "Underground palace?" Qin Yun was quite surprised. "A luxurious palace is definitely not something that can be completed in three to five years without being discovered by the authorities. It looks like your leader has been in Grand Dominance City for quite a while."


    "He has been here for decades," the cat demoness said obediently.


    ...


    Meanwhile, inside the secret palace.


    A yellow-robed fat man was smiling and squinting his eyes as he sat on an extravagant throne. A pink-robed woman whose breasts nearly burst out of her robes snuggled up to the yellow-robed fatty and fed him desserts.


    Sitting beneath the yellow-robed man were seven experts that lined the sides of a hall. They were of all ages and genders with extraordinary dispositions. They were enjoying nice wine and food while watching the dance before them.


    Musicians were performing to the side of the hall.


    Their zithers and flutes played in harmony, making the tune go from majestic and bombastic to soothing and whimsical¡­


    The dancers danced along with the vicissitudes of the melody. At times, they would be extremely solemn, other times they would dance agilely with alacrity, and finally in a seductive and alluring manner¡­


    "Good!" The yellow-robed fatty and the seven experts under him enjoyed the show.


    "Master, try this. I made it myself." The pink-robed woman took out a bit of dessert from one of the plates and extended her hand towards the yellow-robed man''s mouth.


    However, the yellow-robed fatty was focused on a black-robed elder that had appeared within the hall.


    "Do you not like what I made?" The pink-robed woman wheedled.


    "It tastes great. Babe, everything you makes tastes good but your mouth is the sweetest." The yellow-robed fatty turned his head and kissed the pink-robed woman.


    The pink-robed woman laughed seductively.


    "All of you are dismissed," the yellow-robed fatty ordered.


    "Yes, Master."


    The musicians and dancers stopped and left after bowing. They had already lost themselves to despair. Ever since they entered this underground palace, they were never able to leave. They could only live out their hopeless lives in silence. They didn''t even dare to complain, because the demon was simply too scary!


    At that moment, the black-robed elder walked up with a wooden box in his arms. The elder bowed obsequiously as he said, "Leader Chu, the Astral Patterned Steel that you needed has finally been obtained after eight years of gathering. This batch weighs a total of 83 pounds."


    "Astral Patterned Steel?" The figure of the yellow-robed fatty that was originally sitting down suddenly turned blurry. He traversed a distance of more than a hundred feet while leaving a series of afterimages in his wake.


    Thud!


    He appeared before the black-robed elder.


    The black-robed elder''s heart quivered. "He''s so fast. He can probably kill me in one strike. However, before he even bothered to, the other seven demons lining the sides would easily kill me as well."


    The yellow-robed fatty reached out his hand and grabbed the wooden box. He quickly opened it and caught sight of the silvery-white metallic blocks engraved with special patterns. His eyes lit up and he chuckled queerly. "This Astral Patterned Steel is banned by the government, so no civilian is allowed to be in possession of it. If one is caught with it, it''s punishable by death to the entire family."


    "It really wasn''t easy. We tried everything and spent eight years. Many people died before we managed to get our hands on these. Once I obtained them, I immediately brought them here to you," the black-robed elder said quickly.


    "Relax, I will be good to you in consideration of your loyalty to me. No one will dare challenge your standing as sect head as long as I''m here! There is no need for your sect to pay any tribute to me for the next decade," the yellow-robed fatty said forthrightly.


    The black-robed elder was overjoyed.


    With the support of the demon leader, his standing as sect head was stable? Tribute was waived for ten years? That tribute would naturally end up in his pockets.


    "Thank you, Leader Chu," fawned the black-robed elder.


    "Astral Patterned Steel." However, the yellow-robed fatty was fixated upon the treasure within the wooden box. He picked up a silver-white metal piece and threw it into his mouth. The teeth in his mouth were originally quite ordinary but they suddenly turned hideous like razor-sharp saws. With crunching sounds, he pulverized the Astral Patterned Steel into smaller pieces and swallowed them. Afterwards, his teeth returned to normal.


    "My strength is ranked within the top three of the sect. However, even a strike from my ax only leaves a scuff on this Astral Patterned Steel. Furthermore, the metal will automatically heal itself very quickly. Yet, he crushed it with his teeth just like that?" The black-robed elder was secretly appalled.


    After the yellow-robed fatty finished a block of Astral Patterned Steel, he walked back to his seat and sat down. However, there were silver lines circulating faintly over his skin.


    "Congratulations leader!"


    "With this Astral Patterned Steel, leader''s strength will definitely enhance immensely!"


    The seven underlings who were sitting by the side stood up to offer their congratulations.


    Some precious materials could only be used by immortals, buddhas, gods or demons. For example, the demon leader''s cultivation could be directly enhanced by consuming Astral Patterned Steel.


    "Hahaha¡­.." The yellow-robed fatty laughed and the sound of his laughter made the whole hall tremble.


    Suddenly, a black-robed youth walked into the hall through a side door, with a frail girl in his grasp. He walked in so casually, it was as if it were his back garden.


    The new arrival was none other than Qin Yun, who had the cat demoness in his custody.


    "Huh?" Everyone in the hall fell silent as they looked at the uninvited guest.


    The yellow-robed fatty''s expression changed slightly, but he immediately sat back down on his throne in a calm manner. He hugged the pink-robed woman as he gave a meaningless smile and said, "My palace has seven guardian corps and many hidden traps. However, this young man grabbed one of my subordinates and arrived here, silently, without any warning. I, Chu Yong, am impressed. Might I ask, where do you hail from, my friend? Why are you here?"


    Qin Yun glanced at the yellow-robed fatty. Through his Dharma Eyes, he could clearly tell that the yellow-robed fatty was a wild boar demon. His aura was extremely oppressive and he seemed peerless. The seven that sat on the sides were all demons as well.


    "Is he your leader?" Qin Yun ignored the demon leader and instead looked at the cat demoness, "Was it on his order that you harmed Qin An?"


    "Yes." The cat girl lowered her head in shame.


    "Friend, are you here for Qin An?" The yellow-robed fatty sat there as he spoke with a deep baritone voice.


    "Yes, Qin An." Qin Yun turned his head towards the yellow-robed fatty and asked, "Why did you order your subordinate to ambush Qin An, with the intent to control him?"


    "Haha, Qin An''s father is Qin Liehu. He''s one of the three silver-badge constables of Grand Dominance City. You know, a single silver-badge constable is nothing to me. However, the government has a lot of men with powerful weapons. His particular group of constables has been a headache for me. Thus, I decided to use his son''s life in order to have a good talk with him. It resulted in such a vulgar scheme." The yellow-robed fatty laughed. "Friend, since you have intervened, I can drop the matter on your account. However, might I ask where you come from? There is no expert like you in Grand Dominance City."


    "Oh? You believe that I''m not from the Grand Dominance City?" Qin Yun asked.


    "Haha, I''ve been in Grand Dominance city for sixty-eight years now," the yellow-robed fatty said confidently. "Whether it''s a human or a demon, I know everyone that possesses strength."


    "Everyone?"


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Phew.


    Qin Yun then threw the cat demoness in his grasp to the ground. The cat demoness quickly got up as she pleaded in a soft voice, "Senior, I have brought you here. I hope that you can honor our agreement, removing your Dharmic spell and sparing me."


    "Since I brought this cultivator here, the leader will definitely not spare me. I need to escape while this cultivator fights him," The cat demoness thought.


    "Pu!" The cat demoness suddenly trembled. The Quintessential Essence energy sealing her demonic powers instantly minced her heart.


    "You, you didn''t live up to¡­" the cat demoness''s eyes were filled with indignation and anger as she collapsed limply to the ground. Her body distorted and her corpse revealed her true form of a large black cat.


    Qin Yun looked at her, "Towards some people, promises must be kept, even if it means death. However, to others, abiding by promises is stupid and pedantic! It''s the same for demons! If I were that stupid, I would have died at the hands of demons countless times."


    When his voice fell, everyone in the hall had drastic changes in their expressions.


    "Would have died at the hands of demons countless times?" The yellow-robed fatty muttered to himself as his eyes suddenly narrowed, "Demons are quite rare, but it appears as if he has faced many demons before¡­"


    "Friend, can we put the matter of me going after Qin An to an end, considering you have also killed one of my subordinates?" The yellow-robed fatty stood up and stared at Qin An. However, the pink-dressed woman by his side became slightly nervous. As for the seven other demons that were originally seated, they also stood up and stared at Qin Yun. As for the black-robed elder, he was so nervous that he was shaking. Although he controlled a whole sect that had thousands of members, he was in a panic at that very moment.


    "No." Qin Yun shook his head.


    A fierce glint flashed in the yellow-robed fatty''s eyes. He bellowed suddenly, "Kill him!"


    His voice rumbled like a thunderclap that reverberated through the hall. Even the ceiling trembled as most of the cutlery on the table shattered.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The seven experts of different ages and genders, but shared extraordinary dispositions, immediately moved. Five charged at Qin Yun, while one of them turned into a ball of mist and another vanished.


    "Invisibility?" Qin Yun was slightly shocked.

 4 I am his Younger Brother!

    Chapter 4: I am his Younger Brother!


    Translator: QuiescentNightEditor: GGP


    The demons revealed their true natures, and began to physically change appearances. Some of them began to grow yellow fur from their skin as their eyes became dark green. Some of them began to grow a thick hide of skin on their faces as horns sprouted from their heads¡­ All of them were manifesting demonic characteristics. Furthermore, some held two sharp thorns in their hands, while others were grasping large battle axes or using flexible swords¡­ These were the weapons that the demons were most proficient in. They had extraordinary strength but their speeds varied. Some were fast, while others were slow. But even the slowest ones were still leaving phantom images of themselves in mid-air. One could well imagine the speeds they were going at!


    The demon that had dispersed into a cloud of mist was even more peculiar. It was hard to discern where exactly it was. The sudden disappearance of one of the demons caused tremors in the heart of the black-robed elder who was observing from the side. "Invisibility? How is that beatable? These demons are too horrifying."


    Although the yellow-robed fatty, Chu Yong, had delivered the order, he maintained his original position by standing in place. "My seven subordinates are not that weak. The collective effort of the seven will be sufficient in ascertaining the strength of this mysterious expert."


    When experts met in battle, there was only a fine line separating victory and defeat.


    Understanding the limitations of the mysterious expert in front of him could help him gain the upper hand when they engaged in combat.


    "Seven?" Qin Yun stood there, motionless.


    "Woosh! Woosh! Woosh!"


    His right hand unsheathed his sword for a split second before putting it back in.


    Several ice-cold beams scintillated mid-air like swimming snakes. The five demons that had pounced quickly fell to the ground. The mysterious mist demon similarly collapsed into a corpse that quickly transformed into a panther. Behind Qin Yun, a woman''s corpse also appeared and immediately transformed into a snow mink in mid-air¡­ All seven demons fell to the ground one after another. Their weapons clanged to the ground as they escaped the demons'' grasps. All the demons eventually morphed back into their true forms¡ªwolves, panthers, etc¡­ All seven of their corpses were significantly larger than that of regular beasts. Yet, they only laid there motionless.


    The faces of the black-robed elder who stood afar without daring to move and the lady in pink went pale.


    "They died, just like that? The seven demons died instantaneously?" The black-robed elder found it unbelievable, "His strike, I couldn''t see it at all!"


    "What a fast sword. Did you rely on your Dharma Eyes to see through the invisibility technique?"


    The yellow-robed fatty, Chu Yong stood there as he spoke with a deep voice. "It''s no wonder you have the guts to saunter in here alone. However, coming to my territory was your worst mistake." As he said this, he slammed his left hand onto the armrest of his throne. He had used a tremendous amount of strength in the strike, causing the armrest to crack with a loud sound and sink down.


    All the side doors in the audience hall abruptly slammed shut. Simultaneously, the walls and ceiling became filled with numerous holes.


    "Oh no." The black-robed elder''s expression revealed a look of panic and despair.


    "Master." The pink-robed woman felt despair as well.


    However, the yellow-robed fatty sported the same ferocious grin as his head transformed into a hideous boar''s head and he grew a thick layer of hair all over his body. His height swelled up until he was nearly ten feet tall. His clothes tore apart as he grew.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    From the dome of the hall, countless spikes in the form of black beams of light shot through the holes in the walls. Each was the length of a human palm, but the black beams of light were densely packed together in a shroud that left no room for escape. Even the place where Chu Yong was standing was enveloped by the poisonous spikes.


    Innumerable spikes shot through the hall, penetrating the black-robed elder and the pink-robed woman. Instantly, more than a dozen holes were bored through their bodies. They had died on the spot, eyes filled with despair.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Even the long narrow table that was made of stone was easily penetrated by the poison spikes! The floor of the hall that was made of granite was also penetrated, leaving behind a series of cavities.


    "When I built this underground palace, I filled it with mechanisms for the sole purpose of taking on true experts." The wild boar demon, Chu Yong, watched in anticipation.


    However, Qin Yun slowly stepped forward.


    His footsteps would occasionally speed up, causing a poisonous spike to graze past his back.


    At times, his footsteps would slow down, allowing a poisonous spike to fly past his chest.


    Sometimes, he would tilt slightly to the left and a poisonous spike would graze past his ear.


    Sometimes, he would tilt slightly to the right and, once again, a poisonous spike would graze past his neck.


    The poisonous spikes came from every direction, and yet Qin Yun moved like he had eyes on the back of his head. He easily avoided all the poisonous spikes.


    "How is this possible?" The wild boar demon, Chu Yong, widened his eyes, "How did he dodge the poisonous spikes that shot from behind him without being able to see them? Could it be¡­"


    ...


    Qin Yun strode through the main hall in a relaxed manner. He did as he pleased as he emanated his psyche, covering a region of fifty feet in diameter. Everything inside it, even a speck of dust which could not be seen by the naked eye, was within his perception. With the fifty-foot buffer, it made avoiding the poisonous spikes a lot easier.


    He only needed to make minute movements to avoid the incoming poisonous spikes.


    Even though there were times when it was difficult to dodge the spikes, Qin Yun would simply extend his right hand and, with a light flick, send the poisonous spikes that were flying at him to the side.


    In a few seconds, all the poisonous spikes were expended. The grand hall resumed its silence, with holes nearly everywhere.


    The wild boar demon, Chu Yong, removed his huge hands that resembled cattail-leaf fans from his eyes. All the hair on his body was quivering, as the poisonous spikes fell from his body onto the ground.


    "I''ve heard that the hides of wild boars are fairly thick. For a wild boar demon like you to actually use your body to resist those poisonous spikes is quite an impressive feat." Qin Yun gave a rare compliment.


    "Hmph, you easily deflected those poisonous spikes, which means you have reached the perfected Seamless realm. You can even release your psyche, can¡¯t you?" Chu Yong continued, "When you are capable of releasing your psyche, you are not that far from the realm of Heaven Man Unity. I never imagined that a great expert such as yourself would come to my territory."


    Chu Yong stretched his hand out to grab a metal column beside his throne. With a rumble, he ripped out the thirteen-foot metal column and brandished it. However, it did not appear out of place. He looked almost like a regular person holding a staff. He twirled the column with one hand, stirring up a howling gust of wind. The stance and momentum were terrifying. "A high cultivation level doesn''t necessarily mean strength! I''ve killed many human experts who were at a higher cultivation realm than me."


    Just as his voice faded, Chu Yong rushed forward and fiercely swept the metal column in his hands, creating a loud ring. The metal column weighed at least a thousand pounds. A single sweep of it seemed like it could carry him to victory. A graze would result in serious injury and a direct strike would leave one dead.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun abruptly bent down and avoided the swinging column above his head. In a moment, he unsheathed his sword.


    "Wah!"


    The sword blade drew across the demon''s stomach diagonally. At the instant of the slash, Qin Yun felt an immense amount of resistance. His sword managed to cleave off a few hairs with great difficulty and, when it finally reached the demon''s thick hide, the momentum barely left a white mark before dissipating.


    "Woosh." Chu Yong instantly retracted the metal column before suddenly stabbing downwards at his target.


    Qing Yun quickly brandished his sword and immediately rushed forward to dodge before returning with a surprise attack.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Qing Yun raised his speed to his limits while Chu Yong wielded his metal column. Chu Yong''s staff techniques were rather powerful, but he could not even lay a finger on Qin Yun. At the same time, Qin Yun was slicing, stabbing, and slashing Chu Yong''s body continuously. However, even his strongest strike only managed to pierce two inches into the thick hide. He failed to penetrate the entire depth of the thick hide.


    "What a thick hide of skin." Qin Yun retreated to the side and sighed with a click of his tongue. "The hide is too thick, just too thick."


    "Haha, I''ve already said it. A higher cultivation realm does not mean higher strength. How will you fight me if your sword cannot penetrate my skin? I just need to hit you once and you''re dead." Chu Yong laughed boisterously.


    "Your hide is indeed thick. Perhaps it is worthy of meeting my ¡®Misty Rain Sword,¡¯" said Qin Yun. "This is a sword technique I came up with on my own."


    "On your own?" Chu Yong guffawed, "A sword technique needs to be properly tempered and honed with multiple revisions. So what if you came up with it on your own?"


    "Is that so?" Qin Yun advanced forward.


    "Come over and die!" Chu Yong swung the metal column forward, but Qin Yun easily dodged it. He also struck out with his sword, creating a hazy sword beam that flashed like the misty rain in spring. It was ethereal and hazy.


    Chu Yong pushed his metal column up, tipping the column down to rapidly block.


    Pu!


    The hazy sword beam and the metal column collided, and the metal column slowly changed directions. The sword beam swung around the column and proceeded forward. With a sharp lacerating sound, the hazy sword beam tore through Chu Yong''s abdomen! Chu Yong originally ignored it because he was confident of his physical defense. However, he immediately widened his eyes and frantically grasped at his abdomen.


    With a loud tear, his body was split into two. The upper half of his body separated from his lower half as his dismembered body fell to the ground, covering it in fresh blood.


    Only then did Qin Yun sheathe his sword, putting it back into his scabbard.


    Chu Yong had very robust vital strength. He raised his head to look at Qin Yun, "How¡­how is this possible? You couldn''t penetrate my hide before so how¡­how did you do it with one strike¡­ It''s not possible, the hide I was born with is incredibly thick. I was even taught a body-tempering cultivation by a water god, so how could a single strike of yours split my body apart? This ''Misty Rain Sword'' technique...was self-taught?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    The lower half of Chu Yong''s body had already reverted to its true form and the upper half was beginning to revert back as well. He continued to stare at Qin Yun. "You killed me today because of that Qin An? Who exactly are you?"


    He could not take his defeat lying down.


    He had been settled in Grand Dominance City for sixty-eight years, and yet here he was, killed by a mysterious expert without even knowing why.


    Qin Yun looked at the wild boar demon and said, "That''s right. I killed you because of Qin An! It''s because I''m his younger brother!"

 5 Intrinsic Flying Sword

    Chapter 5: Intrinsic Flying Sword


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    "His younger brother?" Chu Yong murmured quietly Then, his eyes widened. "You¡¯re that Qin Yun?"


    He finally remembered.


    Qin Liehu had two sons. One was Qin An, and the other was once a rather famous young swordsman. However, he left the city six years ago to travel the world. Also, the Qin Yun of six years ago may have been dazzling among the younger generation, but, in the eyes of the truly strong and capable, he was still considered a little lacking. Chu Yong was one of the most terrifying and formidable demons of Grand Dominance City, so how could he have thought highly of a kid?


    "You may have killed me, but the water god won¡¯t let you off easily." Chu Yong felt his consciousness weakening. Still, unwilling to admit defeat, he growled, "The water god will never let you go. Never."


    "Water god? Seventy percent of the demons in Grand Dominance County are the water god''s subordinates, isn''t that right?" Qin Yun sneered. "Do you think I¡¯m scared of offending a water god by killing some demons?"


    Chu Yong''s upper body completely reverted back to its original form. The top half of a large wild boar stopped producing any sound, meaning it was dead.


    The entire hall was filled with silence.


    The leader of the demons, the eight minions including the cat demoness, as well as the pink-robed woman and the black-robed old man, were all dead.


    Only Qin Yun stood alone in the middle of the hall, pondering.


    "Just seeing the corpse of the demon leader cleanly severed with one sword strike would be enough to narrow it down to the few people in Grand Dominance County that are capable of such a feat. It would easily expose my identity. I''ll have to do a little cleaning. I''ve only just returned after being away for six years. It is not the right time to clash with the water god." Qin Yun made careful plans before casually rummaging through the hall. As he searched, he discovered the box of Astral Patterned Steel.


    "Astral Patterned Steel." Qin Yun looked inside the cracked box, finding the slabs of silvery-white metal. "With dozens of pounds of Astral Patterned Steel, the foundation of my Intrinsic Flying Sword will become even more enriched. It will also shorten the amount of time I need to completely refine it by a month or two."


    He continued searching around the hall, as well as the demons'' corpses, but nothing surprised him like the Astral Patterned Steel.


    Following that, Qin Yun took out a red sachet and opened it, retrieving a small bottle. He pulled out its stopper and sprinkled a couple of liquid drops onto the demons'' corpses. He sprinkled seven to eight drops onto Chu Yong''s body while using only one or two drops on each of the other demons'' corpses.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    After that, he lit them on fire.


    If it were burned with regular fire, it would take days to fully destroy Chu Yong''s corpse, and even then, the bones would remain. However, because of those drops of fluid, a ghostly blue flame was eating away at the wild boar demon''s corpse incessantly. In less than a minute, there was practically nothing left of the corpse except gray ash. As for the other corpses that had only received a drop or two, they had already long turned to ash.


    "My ''Nether Water'' is running out. I better concoct more," Qin Yun muttered to himself as he walked over to the throne. He fumbled with the armrest a bit, restoring it to its original state.


    "Rumble!" The doors which had shuttered down previously opened once again.


    Qin Yun used his Dharma Eyes to look around and easily found where Chu Yong typically dwelled. After searching carefully, he soon found a treasure box filled with valuables like gemstones and pearls, as well as a stack of banknotes.


    "Wow, there are sixty-three thousand taels?" Qin Yun flipped through the banknotes in surprise. "This old demon was a lackey of the water god, so most of what he received had to be offered to the water god. Furthermore, there are the expenses incurred during normal cultivation, yet he was still able to save up so many silver taels."


    "Cultivation stresses the importance of Dharmic methods, money, companionship, and finally, land. First and foremost is a Dharmic method. Without it, cultivation is impossible. Money ranks second." Qin Yun shook his head. "I am part of the sword immortal''s lineage. I am able to keep expenses for most things low, but nurturing my Intrinsic Flying Sword demands extremely high rates of consumption. I¡¯ve invested more than half of the wealth I¡¯ve accumulated over six years of wandering into it. So how lucky it is that I find these banknotes and Astral Patterned Steel now. If I add it to my original savings, I can barely afford the amount needed to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword through the upcoming year."


    Being a cultivator caused more than its share of headaches.


    For example, if one were to make talismans, even if one were to use the cheapest of papers and cinnabar ink, the cost of practicing in the long-term was very distressing. If one wanted to create a set of talismans, the cost would only get higher.


    Even refining pills and Dharma treasures required heavy investments just to practice. The mere thought of it was terrifying.


    ...


    He searched the entire underground palace and left carrying two bundles. However, before he left, he projected his voice throughout the underground palace. He said with a bold and weathered voice, like that of an elder, "I''ve killed all the demons. You should all leave this place quickly if you want to live." With that said, he left.


    The underground palace was a place where demons led a life of pleasure, but it was also a place where humans led a life of suffering and despair.


    Although they had heard a loud commotion coming from the grand hall, the dancers, musicians, and servants hid in their respective living quarters in shock, afraid to come out. However, after hearing Qin Yun''s proclamation, they waited a while before coming out gingerly. Once they saw that nobody was there to stop them, and that all the traps were disabled, they left in excitement and fled into the streets. They were immediately discovered by the night patrol and the underground palace was instantly exposed.


    Grand Dominance City''s government officials called for an investigation and learned that the owner of the underground palace was the demon leader, Chu Yong.


    To Grand Dominance City, Chu Yong was one of the most terrifying and clandestine old demons. He had been wreaking havoc for decades, and the location of his den had always been a mystery.


    This news immediately stirred the upper echelons of Grand Dominance City.


    ******


    Later that night at Qin Manor, in one of the rooms in Qin Yun''s courtyard, mild light escaped from the lampshade, illuminating the room.


    "Dong!"


    Qin Yun emptied one of the bundles, placing all of the bank notes and treasures into the clothes trunk by his bedside. He then put the other bundle on his bed and quickly opened it. Inside were the slabs of Astral Patterned Steel. "Astral Patterned Steel is considered contraband for ordinary citizens. It is a grave crime to keep it, one that is punishable by the execution of one¡¯s entire family. However, thanks to my status, it would be a trivial matter even if this bit of Astral Patterned Steel is discovered."


    Qin Yun crossed his legs as he sat on top of the bed and calmed his mind.


    He focused on the inside of his dantian.


    His dantian was like the ocean, where Quintessential Essence surged like the waves. Within his dantian, there was a luminous, silvery metal sphere floating in the center.


    All of a sudden, the luminous silver ball began to spin and gradually expand, forming a long strip of "metallic hair." The silver metal sphere was considered small, about the size of gravel. After it expanded, the metallic strand was long and thin, like a strand of hair on a person''s head.


    "Whew!"


    The metal hair flew out of his dantian, flowed through his meridians, and quickly exited from his arm through the tip of his index finger. It instantly pierced his skin, leaving behind a small wound. However, with Qin Yun''s strength, he recovered in an instant.


    After the strand of bright, silvery hair shot out from his fingertip, it immediately and rapidly started to grow.


    It transformed into a three-inch-long, bright silver sword that floated in front of Qin Yun.


    "Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun continued sitting cross-legged as he observed the three-inch-long flying sword hovering in front of him. "It will still be another year before my Intrinsic Flying Sword is finished. When that time comes, it can freely exit my dantian without me being so cautious."


    At present, his Intrinsic Flying Sword was not completely refined. The flying sword within his body was unable to distinguish between friend and foe. He himself would be severely injured if it pierced and damaged his internal organs. Therefore, he curled it into a ''sword ball'' and kept it in his dantian during the nurturing process. If he were to store it in its ''sword'' shape inside his dantian, the sword might accidentally damage his dantian while it was still immature. Then, it would be too late for regrets.


    Once the Intrinsic Flying Sword was done refining, it would become a Dharma treasure that could shrink and grow at will. It would be remarkably formidable.


    Even if Qin Yun were to find another flying sword that had been completely refined, it would not even come close to his Intrinsic Flying Sword. What was an ''Intrinsic Flying Sword''? This was a sword that had been nurtured day and night inside his dantian, to the point of fusing with his soul. Over a long period of time, the sword would gradually become a part of his life force, with a strength that would naturally be frighteningly powerful. If the Intrinsic Flying Sword were to be destroyed, the effects would range from Qin Yun being severely injured to having his cultivation path completely severed.


    "Go." He lifted up a slab of the Astral Patterned Steel sitting beside him which weighed approximately ten pounds. He casually threw it and immediately, strands of Quintessential Essence shot out from his fingertip to envelop it, allowing it to float beneath the three-inch-long flying sword.


    Buzz¡ª


    Following Qin Yun''s circulatory methods, a luster dispersed above the surface of the three-inch-long flying sword. It continuously absorbed the essence of the Astral Patterned Steel below it. Dots of light shot out of the Astral Patterned Steel and flew into the three-inch-long flying sword. As for the slab of floating Astral Patterned Steel, it broke into fragments that began falling down.


    After an hour, the three-inch-long flying sword vibrated once, letting out a sword hum.


    "I''ll end it here today." Qin Yun stretched out his hand and retrieved the Astral Patterned Steel that had shrunk to the size of a cobblestone. It now weighed about two pounds. "If I refine approximately eight pounds worth of Astral Patterned Steel a day, it will probably take ten days to exhaust this stock of Astral Patterned Steel. My Intrinsic Flying Sword will also have a more solid foundation."


    "Raising an Intrinsic Flying Sword is really not easy. If I were an ordinary cultivator, or even if I was just someone else from the sword immortal''s lineage, I would have to spend decades nurturing my Intrinsic Flying Sword. Fortunately, I managed to gain insight into the Misty Rain Sword Intent, which allows me to nurture flying swords ten times faster than the average cultivator. I just need several years of hard work to complete it. Unfortunately, the Misty Rain Sword intent doesn¡¯t save me one bit of the materials needed for nurturing a flying sword." Qin Yun sighed with mixed emotions.


    It was like throwing mountains of gold and silver into a cauldron, all for a single flying sword.

 6 Failing to Pass the Gate to Immortality Before Twenty, Despair Forever

    Chapter 6: Failing to Pass the Gate to Immortality Before Twenty, Despair Forever


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    "Return." The three-inch flying sword floating before him quickly grew in size, until it became three feet long and looked like a regular sword.


    Qin Yun extended his hand out and grasped the divine sword.


    Although the sword was not finished, it was still extremely sharp. It could cut through iron and stone as though it were cutting tofu. But Qin Yun still couldn''t bear to use it, because if something untoward were to happen to it, there would be no second chances.


    "I was only thirteen when I received the Sword Immortal Legacy. I was delighted, but who knew that getting through the gates of immortality would be so difficult?" Qin Yun sighed emotively. "If one can''t step into the gate of immortality before they turn twenty, then they have no chance of success. I was about nineteen before I succeeded in opening the gate of immortality."


    In the cultivation world, there were three major realms¡ªPostnatal, Connate, and Essence Soul.


    Postnatal could be finely subdivided further into twelve Qi Refinement levels, with each level harder to break into than the previous one.


    Connate was separated into three stages¡ªthe False Core stage, the True Core stage, and the Golden Core stage.


    Essence Soul? That had long been a legend!


    As for ¡®opening the gate of immortality,¡¯ the phrase referred to breaking through the ninth level of Qi Refinement to the tenth level. Only after that breakthrough could Quintessential Qi convert into Quintessential Essence! It was also considered the true beginning of cultivation.


    However, achieving this would also invite misfortune and envy from the heavens.


    If one were to write down the method to break through to the tenth level, the written text would instantly vanish! If one tried to orally provide the method to others, they would suddenly become speechless and tongue-tied.


    There was a saying that if one didn''t pass the gate of immortality before they turned twenty, it would become impossible. The reason for it was that, before twenty years of age, the body was still growing and full of limitless vitality and vibrancy. The main and collateral channels in the body were filled with endless possibilities. One had the highest chance of knocking open the gate of immortality during this period of time by condensing and refining Quintessential Essence. Once one reached the age of twenty, their body would be at its peak. After that, one¡¯s condition could only begin spiraling downward. Any hopes of knocking open the gate of immortality would become nearly non-existent.


    "When I was thirteen, I became one with the sword. In that same year, I was at the ninth level of Qi Refinement! Joining a second or third-rate sect wouldn''t have been difficult, and knocking open the gate of immortality would have also been easy. But I received the Sword Immortal Legacy left by a Connate Golden Core stage elder, Daoist Chen, from eight hundred years ago." Qin Yun sighed once more. "The Sword Immortal Legacy is one of the top cultivation legacies in the cultivation world, but it is also at least ten times to even a hundred times harder to cultivate than other Dharmic cultivation methods.


    "There''s a saying in the cultivation world that ''a single sword can destroy all Dharma.'' This sword is none other than the flying sword of a sword immortal." Qin Yun shook his head. "I only inherited it. Without a master or senior to guide me, the Sword Immortal Legacy ended up being at least ten or a hundred times harder to develop than regular Dharmic methods."


    "I received the legacy at thirteen, left home at fifteen, and experienced so many battles that tethered between life and death. I''ve even gone to the northern borders."


    "I was nearly nineteen when I finally managed to knock open the gate of immortality."


    Qin Yun sighed to himself again.


    Knocking open the gate of immortality without the help of a master or senior meant that he could only depend on himself, and forge his own path.


    "Oh? It''s already morning?" Qin Yun noticed that it was getting brighter outside his window.


    "Retrieve." With a thought, the three-foot-long sword immediately began shrinking. It shrunk until it was as thin as a hair before rapidly drilling into Qin Yun''s index finger and traveling through his veins until it returned to his dantian. Once in his dantian, it started spinning and became a pebble-sized, silver ball of metal.


    The sword ball was back inside his body, receiving steady nourishment from his soul and Quintessential Essence.


    He got out of bed and eyed the fragmented dregs that had broken off from the Astral Patterned Steel. He sent his Quintessential Essence out and, in less than a second, the crumbs that were scattered across the floor lifted off the ground and formed a small ball, which then descended into a bamboo crate to the side. He grabbed the bag of Astral Patterned Steel and put it into his clothes trunk. He hid the two bundles beneath his clothes. He then left behind a Quintessential Essence mark, closed the trunk, and locked it.


    He opened the door and left his room.


    It was early morning and very cold. The servants of Qin Manor had already begun their daily cleaning and cooking of breakfast.


    ¡­


    After washing up, Qin Yun changed into an embroidered robe that made him look like an esteemed scion. When he was traveling in the countryside, he naturally wore plain and inconspicuous clothing. But now that he, the second young master of Qin Manor, had returned home, he naturally couldn''t disgrace his family.


    "Second Young Master, good morning."


    "Second Young Master, good morning."


    As Qin Yun walked around the manor, every servant he passed greeted him.


    As he looked at every blade of grass and every tree, all of the narrow paths and complex corridors, it gave him a sense of warmth and familiarity. Soon he arrived at the training grounds.


    On one side of the training grounds stood racks of weapons, and on the far side of the wall, there were targets for archery.


    "Training grounds." Qin Yun revealed a smile. In the past, his father had trained here, and so did his brother. He too had trained arduously in his swordsmanship when he was younger. His mother would frequently sit at a stone table by the side, happily watching the family.


    The state of being ''one with the sword'' was only one level lower than the Seamless state.


    The attainment of the Seamless state was practically the zenith for beings still in the Postnatal realm. Control over one¡¯s body became seamless, to the point that they could control every single strand of hair. Even if they went a long time without practicing their sword techniques, they would not become rusty.


    He had already reached the Seamless state; hence, he didn''t need to train arduously every day. While Qin Yun had reduced the time he spent on sword training, he still did it every day as it was already a part of his routine.


    "Phew."


    The sword unsheathed from the scabbard at his waist.


    Qin Yun stood at a spot and occasionally moved his feet slightly. He held a long sword in his hand as he demonstrated his swordplay. The swordplay did not seem fast but the sword beams formed a blurry haze, like the misty rain of spring. It seemed like a dream that could mesmerize anyone with its beauty. It did not seem like a sword that killed, but rather a poem or a painting.


    A person appeared at the side of the training grounds. It was his elder brother, Qin An. He only watched curiously and silently, without disturbing his younger brother.


    Qin Yun didn''t stop either, calmly continuing in his sword practice. Only after he felt satisfied did he stop and sheathe his sword.


    "Second Brother, why is your sword so slow?" Qin An asked curiously. "Even though I find your swordsmanship beautiful, to the extent that it''s even more beautiful than the sword dances of the ladies at the brothel, isn''t it just too slow? How can such a slow sword possibly kill?"


    "Haha¡­" Qin Yun laughed. "This is my self-made sword technique, the Misty Rain Sword. What you saw was only one aspect of the Misty Rain Sword."


    "One aspect?" Qin An ruminated over the words. "Alright. You could already defeat me when you were ten, and when you were fifteen, you were Grand Dominance City''s number one person among the younger generation. Back then, I could still tell why your swordsmanship was amazing. But it seems that now I can''t even comprehend your techniques anymore."


    Qin Yun smiled as he changed the topic. "Brother, why did you come so early? It''s not even time for breakfast, but you''ve already traveled from the south side of the city to the west?"


    "Us brothers haven''t seen each other in six years. Naturally, I want to catch up with you," Qin An said emotionally. "When you were out traveling, I would often worry about you, afraid you would never come back. But enough, let''s not talk about that! On another note, this past half year, I''ve been waking up every morning feeling exhausted. I went to a doctor, but they said that I wasn''t ill. Today, however, I''m feeling rather good."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Feeling rather good today? Perhaps it was because the cat demoness didn''t devour your Yang aura last night.


    "Was it because I was missing you, Second Brother? My heart felt at ease after you returned, so I''m feeling better?" Qin An murmured.


    "Missing me? If you were missing me, why would you be fine for five years, only to feel uncomfortable in the past half year?" Qin Yun smirked. "Your body had been infiltrated by demonic aura."


    "Infiltrated by demonic aura?" Qin An''s expression changed drastically.


    Qin Yun didn''t hide anything from his elder brother. After all, they had gone through thick and thin in their youth. Matters such as ''demonic aura infiltration'' were something his elder brother could easily accept.


    "I noticed it yesterday," Qin Yun stated.


    "Then why didn''t you say anything yesterday?" Qin An asked.


    "I didn''t want to alert the perpetrator. What if they did something in desperation? Obviously, I had to pretend I didn''t know anything. I secretly investigated and figured everything out last night. I have resolved the problem at its root, which is why I can tell you now," Qin Yun said. "Also, don''t tell anyone what I''ve just told you."


    "This I already know." Qin An nodded. "Will my body be alright?"


    "Relax, you''re not beyond hope." Qin Yun grinned.


    As he said this, he took out a paper talisman that he had already prepared. He said, "This is a ''Disease Dispelling Talisman'' that I got from my good friend. Even I don''t know how to make this!" As he said this, he injected his Quintessential Essence into the paper talisman, activating it. Immediately, the talisman ignited without any spark before an invisible power merged into Qin An''s body. Qin An only felt a rush of coolness. The feeling of suppression he originally had also vanished. He felt refreshed.


    "Most of the demonic aura has already been removed," Qin Yun said. "However, some of it entered your inner organs, and is rooted too deeply inside you for the Disease Dispelling Talisman to rid you of it completely."


    "So how can I get better?" Qin An asked.


    "Haha, now that the demoness who was targeting you is gone, the demonic aura inside your body is like sourceless water. You''re still young and fit, so even without the Disease Dispelling Talisman, you would have recovered in three to five years. But since you''ve used the talisman, the minute traces that are left will hardly affect you. Perhaps, in a few months, you''ll expel the demonic aura naturally," Qin Yun said emotionally. "The vibrancy that a body has is truly miraculous."


    Qin An heaved a breath of relief, and immediately asked curiously, "Second Brother, why would a demoness suddenly want to harm me? I''m only a lowly merchant, so why would a demoness target me? Is it because of Father?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "Let''s wait for Father to come back and I''ll tell you both in more detail."


    Qin An quickly recovered from the jolting news. He smiled and said, "Second Brother, when you cultivated to the ninth level of the Qi Refinement realm at only thirteen, I already knew you would knock open the gate and begin the path towards immortality. From what I¡¯ve seen today, you can see demonic auras and even exterminate them. You have indeed stepped onto the path of immortality."


    Qin Yun smiled.


    Back when he received the Sword Immortal Legacy, he had only told his father! His father had strictly warned him not to let others know. Even his mother and elder brother were kept in the dark. He feared that if the word were to spread, it would only invite disaster upon him.


    "Knocking open the gate of immortality was really not easy," Qin Yun said candidly.


    ¡­


    The two brothers joined their mother for breakfast and engaged in a long chat when, suddenly, a servant came with news, "Second Young Master, someone outside the manor wishes to see you. They said they''re a good friend of yours."


    "Good friend? You came back only yesterday and already someone wants to see you?" Qin An was rather perplexed.


    "Let''s see who it is." Qin Yun stood up.

 7 Western Mountain Sword Garden

    Chapter 7: Western Mountain Sword Garden


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    Qin Yun walked to the entrance of the mansion to find out who called upon him. What awaited him was a bald man with a huge beard who held onto the reins of a horse.


    "Brother Yun." The man quickly smiled. His voice was very loud as he gave an excited cry.


    Qin Yun¡¯s eyes widened as he carefully observed the man. The person had a bald head and a large bushy beard. It was only possible to recognize him via the key features on his face. "Is that Little Bobo? How is that possible? That shy and handsome young man has actually turned into this rough-looking huge man?"


    Tian Bo was one of his best friends during his youth and was one year younger than him.


    When they were young, Tian Bo was handsome and fair. But mainly, he was extremely shy.


    But now, he was¡­ bald? With a large bushy beard? Stocky?


    "Brother Yun, how can you say that of me?" Tian Bo hurriedly said. "This is too hurtful. Even my heart is aching!"


    "Stop the act." Qin Yun joked.


    Tian Bo chuckled.


    They gave each other a bear hug.


    "Brother Yun, it has been a while!" Tian Bo said.


    "Indeed, it has." Qin Yun released his good friend and immediately laughed. "But honestly, Little Bobo, I dare say I wouldn¡¯t recognize you, with you undergoing such a drastic change in appearance."


    "How could I control it? My hair began falling out at eighteen. It was pointless, hoping to prevent it." Tian Bo helplessly rubbed his head. "There was nothing I could do. Both my father and grandfather are bald, so I guess it''s the same for me. Moreover, this beard of mine is also growing at a crazy rate. Nevertheless, I do appear a little domineering, don''t I?"


    "Yes, yes you do." Qin Yun laughed.


    The playmate from his youth had also grown up!


    "Seriously, why didn''t you inform me of your return? I only caught wind of rumors of your return from Six Fans Gate. Our Western Mountain Sword Garden''s Young Master Wufeng has already summoned for everyone to give you a warm welcome at noon today." Tian Bo laughed and said, "As for me, I volunteered to rush here and bring you there."


    "A welcoming party?" Qin Yun was startled. "You all have really great news sources."


    "Word spreads quickly." Tian Bo hurriedly replied. "Let''s go. Hurry. There are many old friends waiting for you."


    Qin An, who was standing by the door, also laughed and said, "Second Brother, since so many of your friends are waiting for you, make haste and go."


    "Alright. Brother, there is no need to wait for me. I''ll probably be back very late," Qin Yun said.


    Subsequently, Qin Yun got on a horse that the servants had prepared for him. He rode off with his good friend, Tian Bo.


    ¡­


    The Western Mountain Sword Garden was located at the foot of the western mountain outside Grand Dominance City.


    The duo rode their horses leisurely and chatted on the way there.


    "In my youth, I wanted to roam the world just like you. But with me having so little ability, I would go limp from just seeing a few bloody bouts. I decided that it was better if I took over the family business. Now, I am in charge of a portion of the food and beverage business run by my father," Tian Bo shook his head and said. "By the way, I recently took in a concubine. This year, I am being forced by my father to quickly find a wife."


    "You got a concubine before a wife?" Qin Yun was startled.


    "There was no choice. She got pregnant," Tian Bo shook his head. "However, my father is actually happy because the child is a boy."


    "You are the only son of tycoon Tian. He is simply waiting for you to continue the family line." Qin Yun teased.


    As they conversed, they reached a lake at the foot of the western mountain. The lake was calm, glimmering like a huge emerald that reflected the western mountain. On the other end of the lake was a pavilion. They could vaguely make out several figures in the distance.


    There were some servants waiting at the lakeside. They had been eagerly waiting, and hurriedly stepped forward to receive the duo.


    "Young Master Tian, is this Young Master Qin?" A steward asked enthusiastically. "Follow me quickly. My master and the other young masters have been waiting for you."


    Qin Yun and Tian Bo dismounted their horses and handed the reins to the waiting servants by the side.


    Then, they were quickly led onto a tiny boat by the steward.


    Although the boat was small, it was elegantly decorated. The boatman was a beautiful young lady. The boat floated over the serene lake that resembled an immortal''s paradise.


    "I recall that the boatman back then was an old man. Now, he has been replaced by a young lady," Qin Yun sighed.


    "Young Master Wufeng really is the best when it comes to enjoyment," Tian Bo remarked.


    Western Mountain Sword Garden was the property of the first young master of the Li family, Li Wufeng. He enjoyed swordsmanship and had established the ''Western Mountain Sword Garden'' when he was young. Only those younger than sixteen could join. Qin Yun was only ten when he was invited to join. Western Mountain Sword Garden was something that Young Master Wufeng had created because he wished to find peers that shared the same interest in swordsmanship as he did. However, as the youths grew up, Western Mountain Sword Garden began having some influence in Grand Dominance City.


    There were some youths drinking and chatting heartily under a pavilion on the other side of the lake. They took notice of the small boat approaching from the other side.


    ''"Hahaha¡­"


    A loud laughter was heard from afar. "The god of swords is back. The god of swords is back. Our Sword Garden¡¯s god of swords is back."


    "Make haste! Brother Qin Yun, hurry over. Don''t dilly-dally." Everyone laughed out loud as they urged him.


    "Brother Yun, let¡¯s go." Tian Bo immediately took a stride from the small boat and traversed across the water. He flew over the surface of the lake for about two hundred feet before landing on the distant dock.


    Qin Yun laughed as he too traversed across the water. However, he did not deliberately show off. His paces merely caused ripples to appear on the lake''s surface. There weren''t any splashes while he slowly walked to the dock.


    "Brother Yun, long time no see."


    "It has been six years. Let¡¯s drink. I was really afraid that you would die out there. You sure are lucky. Finally, you have returned."


    The group of young men took a wine jug over and handed it directly to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun received it. He smiled and said, "Alright, alright. Let¡¯s drink."


    He was truly at ease being with the playmates of his youth.


    ¡­


    There were more than twenty people gathered, all who drank merrily.


    "Second Brother, let''s have a competition. I lost to you in our last sword sparring match. Let''s spar again."


    "Sure. Do you think I''m afraid of you?"


    The two of them placed their wine jugs to the side and immediately leaped forward. Over the surface of the water, they began sparring in the scenic mountains covered in greenery.


    Instantly, sword beams flashed as the two figures sparred above the lake''s surface, rapidly trading techniques and the advantage.


    "Great."


    "Second Brother''s technique can only be described as great art that conceals itself. Its disposition has become even more extraordinary."


    "Phew, what an odd strike. It gave me a fright."


    Everyone by the side commented as they drank and watched the battle.


    The battle finally came to an end when one party was sent flying into the lake, emerging completely drenched.


    "Brother Ming, let''s also give it a try."


    "Let''s spar."


    In an instant, people paired up and began sparring with their swords over the waters.


    Sword sparring was a common sight at Western Mountain Sword Garden! Back then, Western Mountain Sword Garden had extended invitations to many youths. Anyone who wished to join had to have certain accomplishments in swordsmanship. Their batch of youngsters could be considered a representation of the best swordsmen of Grand Dominance City''s younger generation.


    Drinking, chatting, and sword sparring¡­


    Now, with all of them grown up, their lives were shackled under layers of chains. It led them to cherish their visits to the Western Mountain Sword Garden. There, they could drink merrily, spar enjoyably, and ignore all the mundane matters of life.


    Qin Yun grabbed the wine jug and drank with his good friends. At the same time, they engaged in idle banter.


    "Where is Lunatic Zhang? He always challenged me to sparring in the past. Why don''t I see him here?" Qin Yun asked.


    "Lunatic Zhang spent all of his family''s fortunes to embark on the cultivation path of an immortal. He has even joined the ¡®Familial Mountain Sect¡¯. Unfortunately, he failed to knock open the gate of immortality before he turned twenty. He ended up roaming the world¡­"


    "I really admire Lunatic Zhang. When I was young, I was focused on practicing my swordsmanship and also wished to cultivate into an immortal. However, I gradually gave up on that desire. Sigh, there were no other options. My father is older now. My family clan requires me to support it, so I cannot do as I please anymore."


    "Layers after layers of shackles. One cannot be free."


    Everyone sighed wistfully.


    Everyone present were skillful experts in swordsmanship. On average, they had reached the seventh stage of Qi Refinement, and had some desire towards the path of cultivation.


    They were high-spirited in their youth and each of them had their own goals.


    However, after growing up, they began being shackled by layers of restraint. Moreover, one only had a chance at opening the gate of immortality after reaching the ninth stage of Qi Refinement. Among those present, only three or four of them had reached the ninth stage of Qi Refinement. Finally, attempting to join a cultivation sect was an extremely difficult matter in and of itself.


    "What about Sister Yuqing?" Qin Yun asked again. She was the only female that was a part of the Western Mountain Sword Garden.


    "Her father was posted to the Southbright Prefecture and she left with him. It will be difficult to see her again in the future."


    "I heard that Sister Yuqing is married as well. Her husband is the sickly young master of the wealthy ''Guihai Family'' in Southbright Prefecture."


    "The Guihai family is one of the richest clans in the Southbright Prefecture. I too have heard about that sickly young master. It is rumored that he is in terrible condition and will likely pass on in the next few years."


    ¡­


    "Why isn''t Brother Luobing here?" Qin Yun asked.


    "Luobing is dead. He was returning home with a good friend after visiting a brothel late one night. He was drunk and ended up being murdered. That''s how he lost his life. The murderer¡¯s identity is still a mystery to this day."


    Qin Yun was startled.


    That proud young man was dead, just like that?


    ¡­


    "Jiawu is dead as well. There''s even more injustice circling his death. He encountered a demon while returning from Jia Manor to the city. His entire party was killed."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun faltered when he heard that.


    Some of his good friends from Western Mountain Sword Garden had left their homes while others had already died.


    Although the relationships between the friends of the Sword Garden were all quite good, there was a total of forty of them back then. Naturally, there were some who had better or worse relations among the group. They met once every few days. After a couple of years, some of them grew so distant that they did not even talk much with each other. Qin Yun had joined the Western Mountain Sword Garden when he was ten. Back then, his father, Qin Liehu, was only an ordinary constable and the group of youths was still extremely unfamiliar with each other. Therefore, they tended to form opinions of one another based on background. As the son of an ordinary constable, some of the sons of slightly wealthy merchants had looked down on him.


    Qin Yun was a fanatic when it came to sword training. He also had the nickname of ''Lunatic Yun''. The only ones who were very close to him were ''Little Bobo'' or Tian Bo, and ''Madman'' or Xie Lei, who had similar backgrounds.


    Although a few of his peers had passed away, in this era where demons wreaked havoc, death was commonplace. In addition, their friendship was not deep, so all Qin Yun did was let out a sigh.


    "By the way, where is Madman? Why didn''t he come?" Qin Yun asked Tian Bo, who was drinking wine by his side. "Is he on an armed escort mission?"

 8 Xie Shuang

    Chapter 8: Xie Shuang


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    "Madman?" Tian Bo flinched as he softly murmured, "Madman has been dead for nearly three years."


    "Dead for nearly three years?" Qin Yun¡¯s expression changed.


    When he first entered Western Mountain Sword Garden, he was the son of an ordinary constable and was only ten years old.


    Tian Bo was the son of a wealthy merchant of little significance and he was only nine years old.


    Xie Lei''s family operated an armed escort company for the delivery of goods. He was eleven years old.


    Xie Lei was always very headstrong and had a quick temper. Hence, his nickname was ''Madman Xie.'' At that time, Tian Bo had a frail and skinny body. He was also shy; thus, he was teased and called ''Little Bobo''.


    Strictly speaking, Tian Bo was equivalent to a lackey. Qin Yun and Xie Lei were the two with the strongest sword techniques in Western Mountain Sword Garden. The two of them frequently sparred with each other. Qin Yun treated Madman Xie''s sister, Xie Shuang, as a younger sister. Qin Yun also had a younger sister once. However, she died when he was eight years old. Xie Shuang actually looked similar to his sister. Even the way they wheedled was similar.


    Qin Yun and Xie Lei were extremely close. He could not believe that the extremely tactical and fierce Madman Xie would simply die just like that.


    "What happened? How did he die?" Qin Yun felt his heart wince. The various memories from his youth surfaced in his heart as his eyes could not help but redden.


    "I had planned on telling you privately after the gathering." Tian Bo lowered his voice. "You remember that Madman''s father had been ill a long time ago? He became bedridden and, about half a year after you left, Madman''s father finally passed away! However, Madman had strength and skill. He managed to secure his father¡¯s position as chief of the escort company. A marriage for him was even later agreed upon. It was with a concubine''s daughter from a large family clan in Grand Dominance County, the Hong family. You could¡¯ve said that the marriage would ensure that he had the Hong family as his backers. However, no one expected the incident before the wedding."


    "What happened?" Qin Yun asked.


    "The Xie family received a request to escort some goods of extremely great value." Tian Bo said. "Madman personally led the escort. They were about to reach their destination when they were ambushed by demons. The battle was rumored to be extremely horrifying. Only three out of the hundreds of people managed to survive while only two of the demons died. When Madman died, his sword had managed to penetrate the demon''s head through its mouth. However, that monster also managed to shatter Madman''s heart."


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    Demons¡­


    If an escort company were to meet with a demon, all they needed to do was offer the demon treasures and they might be let off. This was because a typical escort company of considerable strength might only have a chance of vanquishing a demon or two.


    "These demons." Qin Yun clenched his teeth. Demons were generally of lower intellect than humans and some were even dumber! With bad luck, offering treasures would be useless. One could only rely on the weapons in their hands.


    "What about Little Shuang?" asked Qin Yun.


    With Madman Xie dead, the young girl was the only Xie family member left.


    "That was a huge business deal. When the escort failed, the Xie family had to compensate the clients. Despite so many of their men dying, the Xie family was forced to make compensation." Tian Bo shook his head. "Sister Xie Shuang was rather just and honest. After the escort company closed down, she sold all her wealth to compensate the families of the men who died. In the end, she didn''t even have the silver taels needed for the compensation. She was forced to sell herself to Swallow Phoenix Brothel to amass the necessary amount."


    "She sold herself to Swallow Phoenix Brothel?" Qin Yun''s face turned white.


    Madman was dead and his sister, Xie Shuang, had sold herself to a brothel?


    Thankfully, Swallow Phoenix Brothel was famous for being the upscale brothel of Grand Dominance County. The courtesans there only sold their company and not their bodies. Only ordinary whorehouses would sell sexual services.


    Providing sexual services was extremely frowned upon. Typically, half a tael of silver was sufficient to pay for one session. As for the truly famous courtesans, they would be swarmed by rich and distinguished guests. Just treating the courtesans to a cup of tea or having a chat with them would cost the patrons dozens of silver taels! Furthermore, the courtesans had the right to choose their clients. For example, some famous courtesans would not even meet those from a distinguished family, even after they spent more than a thousand silver taels!


    Of course, if the famous courtesan was agreeable to it, they could be betrothed to a rich man, but that was very rare.


    "Sister Xie Shuang is the only daughter of the Xie family. She is proficient in sword dances and talented with the lute. She''s also extremely beautiful so she was able to sell herself for a high price," said Tian Bo as he shook his head. "I wanted to help her monetarily but she needed nearly twenty thousand silver taels. My Tian family would have had to sell half of its estate to make that much. Furthermore, a fire sale would only lower the price. Therefore, there was no way for us to help. My dad would not agree to it either."


    "Nearly twenty thousand taels?" Qin Yun nodded. Such an amount was enough for one to be considered wealthy. It was quite rare for the Swallow Phoenix Brothel to be willing to put up the cost of twenty thousand silver taels.


    "Let''s go to Swallow Phoenix Brothel tonight," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright, I''ll accompany you." Tian Bo nodded.


    ¡­


    Although he was anxious to meet Xie Shuang, Swallow Phoenix Brothel only opened its doors to guests at night. Furthermore, Xie Shuang had already been in Swallow Phoenix Brothel for more than two years. There was no need to rush to her. Qin Yun waited patiently as he spent time with his old friends.


    He sat beside a handrail and drank wine as he watched his good friends spar above the water.


    "Brother Qin Yun, why don''t you give us some pointers?"


    "That''s right. Hurry, don''t just spend your time drinking."


    His friends beckoned him.


    "Forget it," said Qin Yun as he forced a smile. He was really not in the mood for it. Just thinking of Xie Shuang selling herself to Swallow Phoenix Brothel, and Madman Xie meeting his end, it was all he could do to suppress the pain within his heart.


    "Brother Qin Yun," a handsome youth dressed in casual and relaxed clothes walked over and sat beside Qin Yun. He was Young Master Wufeng, the one who established Western Mountain Sword Garden years ago. He said with a smile, "When you were thirteen, you had already achieved the ninth level of Qi Refinement. At fifteen, you began roaming the world alone. Today, you must have acquainted yourself with an immortal''s destiny and knocked open the gate of immortality, right?"


    "After a great deal of suffering, I did eventually manage to knock open the gate of immortality," replied Qin Yun.


    Young Master Wufeng could not help but sigh, "Impressive. You are the only one from Grand Dominance City''s younger generation that has knocked open the gate of immortality. But do you know why I''m really impressed by you?"


    Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "I''m impressed by your guts." Young Master Wufeng said, "With the talent you had back then, joining any of the cultivation sects surrounding Grand Dominance County would have been easy. It wouldn''t have been difficult for you to knock open the gate of immortality either. However, you clearly thought nothing of these ordinary cultivation sects. You would rather tour the world to seek opportunities and perhaps, enter truly top sects. Maybe one needs such determination to embark on the path to immortality."


    Qin Yun was startled. He shook his head and said, "There''s no need to praise me. Back then, my journey away from home was fraught with difficulties. I was frequently on the brink of death and had to grit my teeth to endure it all. Eventually, I really missed home. However, I discovered that I had traveled far away from home. The return journey was equally treacherous. However, having started down that path, I could only walk it to the end."


    "It is already amazing to bear going this far away from home." Young Master Wufeng raised his wine jug. "Let me toast you."


    Qin Yun raised his wine jug as well.


    The two clinked their drinking vessels.


    After drinking the wine, Young Master Wufeng said, "You are so different from us. Your lifespan is already different. After knocking open the gate of immortality, you can easily live past a hundred years. If you were to step into the Connate realm, just the False Core stage extends your lifespan to two hundred years! The legendary Golden Core realm means a lifespan of five hundred years, making one a true immortal. In the future, us playmates of your childhood will return to the earth, but you could still remain very young."


    Qin Yun faltered slightly but he did not speak a word. He looked at the friends that were sparring over the lake as he quietly drank his wine.


    ******


    Later that evening, Qin Yun politely rejected an invitation for a gathering at night before leaving with Tian Bo.


    "Let''s go to Swallow Phoenix Brothel."


    The two mounted their horses and rode back to the city.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel was one of the biggest brothels in Grand Dominance County. Officials roamed the place and wealthy merchants gathered there. Just drinking an ordinary cup of tea inside cost one silver tael. One silver tael could feed an ordinary family of three for three months.


    At that moment, Swallow Phoenix Brothel had already opened its doors to receive customers. Red lanterns were long hung up. There was a group of beautiful female attendants that warmly welcomed guests outside the main entrance.

 9 Meeting Again

    Chapter 9: Meeting Again


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    Outside Swallow Phoenix Brothel, guests began entering in groups.


    At the corner of the streets stood two young men. They wore simple but clean clothes.


    "Second Brother Wang, do you really wish to enter? Entering and ordering a cup of tea alone will cost one tael of silver. We only earn that much after two months of hard work!" The two young men looked at Swallow Phoenix Brothel from afar and could vaguely make out the enchanting figures within.


    "It¡¯s not like I have a family to support. The money is worth it as long as I can hear Fairy Clear Autumn''s music. Are you going in or not? I''m going ahead if you aren''t," urged a man with bushy eyebrows and big eyes.


    "I¡­ I need to feed my family. No. No, I won''t be going in. Yingzi would definitely scold me if she found out." A short man beside him shook his head after some hesitation.


    "That haggard woman of yours? She scolded you all last night. Moreover, you were rewarded with a tael of silver for picking up and returning the money bag to that benefactor. That¡¯s money your haggard woman doesn''t know about! Let''s go."


    "No, you go on ahead. It''s too expensive."


    "I hope you don¡¯t regret this." The man with thick brows and big eyes strode forward and soon entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    The short man watched from afar, battling with temptation. Finally, he gritted his teeth and turned around to leave. "One tael of silver can buy more meat and food. Our lives will become better as well. Yingzi will definitely be extremely happy when she sees the silver tael." The short man revealed a smile as he thought.


    As for Qin Yun and Tian Bo, they also arrived at Swallow Phoenix Brothel on horseback.


    "Young Master Tian, it has been a long time since your last visit. Please enter." An old procuress who appeared rather beautiful shouted out loudly. She must have been a beauty in her youth. There was a servant by the side who hurriedly came forward and swiftly took the horses away.


    "Let''s go in." Tian Bo had dismounted his horse and led Qin Yun inside.


    "Someone, come entertain these guests." The old procuress led the way in warmly.


    A young and petite female attendant immediately came forward. "Young Master Tian, this way, please. This young master, is this his first time here at Swallow Phoenix Brothel?"


    "This is Young Master Qin. Arrange a spot closer to the front for us." Tian Bo instructed.


    "Young Master Tian, you can rest assured that we will not dare slight your instructions," said the female attendant with a smile.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel was a combination of five buildings. The main building, east building, south building, west building and north building. The main building was usually used to welcome guests from all over the place, while the other four buildings were for more distinguished guests.


    At that moment, Qin Yun and Tian Bo entered the main building and were led to a spot close to a railing.


    The railing surrounded a stage in the middle. There were some musicians playing in the back while two dancers danced onstage.


    "Brother Yun, these are only ordinary women for now. Later on, renowned courtesans will appear. This spot is closest to the stage," said Tian Bo. The both of them sat down in front of a tea table. Tian Bo ordered routinely. "Get us some melon, fruits, and desserts. Add a pot of tea too."


    "Make haste."


    The young female attendant hurriedly prepared the tea beside them. At the same time, she instructed other female attendants to bring some melon, fruit, and desserts. Following that, she very naturally began massaging Tian Bo''s shoulders. "Young Master Tian, does Young Master Qin need someone to serve him?"


    "There''s no need." Qin Yun said. He had roamed the world for six years and naturally understood the rules of a brothel. In a brothel like Swallow Phoenix Brothel, the female attendants only massaged one''s shoulders and legs. They did not offer sexual services.


    "Will Little Shuang be here tonight?" Qin Yun asked.


    "Sister Xie Shuang changed her name after entering the brothel," replied Tian Bo. "Currently, her stage name is ''Chen Shuang.¡¯ She entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel to pay off a debt. Naturally, the Swallow Phoenix Brothel would want her to entertain guests frequently."


    "Chen Shuang?" Qin Yun muttered softly. He felt a stabbing pain in his heart. The young girl of yesteryear had been forced to enter a brothel.


    There were certain particulars when it came to seating assignments in Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    The wealthy and distinguished guests were either in private rooms, which gave privacy but were situated a little further from the stage, or they were seated closest to the stage. Normally, pretty female attendants would tend to these guests by massaging them or feeding them fruits. As for the seats behind them, they were much smaller in size. Typically, they would only order the most ordinary pot of tea and not have attendants at the ready. That alone would incur the lowest cost of ''one tael of silver!¡¯


    ¡­


    Time flowed by.


    One performance after another went onstage.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s most famous ''Lady Clear Autumn'' was dressed in green as she sat quietly onstage, blowing her flute. The flute''s melody was deep and sweet, peaceful and mild. It sounded like a weeping lament that caused one to be lost in reverie without realizing it. All the troubles and daily worries on one¡¯s mind seemed to disappear. Even Qin Yun could not help but be attracted to the melody.


    By the time the flute''s melody came to a stop, Lady Clear Autumn had already stood up. She turned and left with her flute in hand.


    "Where''s Fairy Clear Autumn?"


    "It was like a dream. By the time I snapped out of it, Fairy Clear Autumn was already gone."


    The surrounding crowd was left despondent before they started murmuring. Sitting in a corner, a young man with thick eyebrows and large eyes was extremely excited. "It''s simply worth it just to hear Fairy Clear Autumn''s melody. It was worth it!"


    Qin Yun nodded upon hearing this as well. Her skill at playing the flute was indeed incredible.


    "Fairy Clear Autumn''s flute melodies are only getting more and more extraordinary these days. The way I see it, Fairy Clear Autumn should take the spot of Courtesan Belle."


    "How can the spot of Courtesan Belle be that easily won? Ever since Fairy Clear Autumn came to Grand Dominance City, she only managed to place in the top three for the last two Courtesan Belle selections. She might not be able to clinch the position of Courtesan Belle."


    "Last year, Lady Scented Dress only barely surpassed Fairy Clear Autumn to claim the title of Courtesan Belle. The year before, Dreamlike Pavilion Lady won the title but it was really unfair."


    A flurry of discussion broke out.


    "Courtesan Belle selection?" Qin Yun was aware that Grand Dominance City was a large city consisting of hundreds of thousands of people. Choosing a Courtesan Belle was a grand event! All the renowned brothels would do their best to vie for the spot. Ignoring the outcome of becoming Courtesan Belle, the courtesans would enjoy a great increase in fame if they managed to be one of the top ten candidates among the many renowned courtesans! One''s reputation was equivalent to money within a brothel!


    "Swallow Phoenix Brothel will naturally do its best to win the position of Courtesan Belle. That Lady Clear Autumn from earlier is the number one renowned courtesan in Swallow Phoenix Brothel," remarked Tian Bo. "She was originally the daughter of an official. However, her family fell into decline and she ended up becoming a courtesan. Fortunately for her, she quickly gained fame. Swallow Phoenix Brothel personally invited her to come from the Wu County. With her being such a renowned courtesan, she is still a free person even after coming to Swallow Phoenix Brothel. She can leave anytime she wishes. Even Swallow Phoenix Brothel is unable to restrain her. One must spend a hundred taels of silver just to have a chance of meeting Lady Clear Autumn privately. Even then, it will still depend on whether she wants to or not."


    "Swallow Phoenix Brothel has been doing its best to help Lady Clear Autumn clinch the spot of Courtesan Belle. Unfortunately, she failed the last two years," said Tian Bo as he shook his head.


    "What about Little Shuang? Did she participate in the Courtesan Belle selection?" asked Qin Yun.


    "In the early days when Sister Xie Shang just entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel, she was not eligible for the selection as she lacked the fame. She participated in last year''s selection but failed to make it to the top ten," replied Tian Bo. "This year, it''s unlikely that there''s much hope for her. After all, she is only ranked fifth in Swallow Phoenix Brothel."


    Qin Yun nodded and did not speak further.


    Although there were plates of desserts and cut fruits in front of him, Qin Yun did not touch any of them. All he did was drink tea. Finally, after having two cups of tea¡­


    "Swoosh."


    A valiant-looking figure clothed in red flew out from behind. Her sword sliced through the air as she finally landed gently onstage.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s Lady Chen Shuang. Sword Dance!


    "Little Shuang." Qin Yun tightened the grip on his teacup. The young lady, only thirteen when they parted ways, was currently nineteen. She was all grown up now.


    His younger sister, Xie Shuang of yesteryear, had never experienced sadness and was extremely naive. She may have been mentally prepared for her father''s death after seeing him bedridden for so long, but the blow to Xie Shuang was too much when her only relative, Xie Lei, died. Yet despite her grief, she still had to step forward and compensate the pitiful family members of the men who had perished. She eventually had to even sell herself to the brothel to pay the tab.


    "She has grown up. She''s a big girl now." Qin Yun muttered softly. Xie Shuang had changed drastically.


    Her sword-like brows accentuated her heroic look. Although the brandishing of her sword gave one a sharp feeling, her disposition seemed to contain a faint sense of frailty.


    Valiance and frailty both merged into one.


    "She has transformed the sword techniques I taught her into this." Qin Yun shook his head gently. He felt mixed emotions.


    On stage, Lady Chen Shuang moved gracefully with the music. She turned around and thrust out her sword in a particular direction, when she saw a table.


    She was taken aback.


    That figure¡­that man sitting beside Tian Bo¡­


    Memories began flooding through her mind.


    "Little Shuang, this sword move should be done this way." Back then, Qin Yun, who was still thirteen years old, was teaching her.


    "Brother Yun, I got it. I got it. Let me demonstrate it again." Xie Shuang, who was eleven years old back then, was even more excited to make another attempt.


    "You must practice well. Your Brother Yun is already in the realm of being one with the sword. He''s a lot stronger than me." Watching by the side, Xie Lei, who was rather well-built for his fourteen-year-old frame, said with a laugh.


    ¡­


    Lady Chen Shuang''s eyes reddened as tears could not help but appear.


    Qin Yun was also looking at her.


    The two locked eyes as Qin Yun nodded his head gently with a faint smile.

 10 Making An Example out of Others

    Chapter 10: Making An Example out of Others


    Translator: Gravity TalesEditor: Gravity Tales


    The musicians in Swallow Phoenix Brothel were a little perplexed. Why did the Sword Dance come to a halt? They repeated the tune from earlier and, without having the luxury to wallow in her thoughts, Lady Chen Shuang continued her dance.


    The sword dance finally came to an end.


    The red-clothed Lady Chen Shuang turned her head to look at Qin Yun before leaving.


    "I wish to meet Lady Chen Shuang." Qin Yun turned his head and spoke to the female attendant beside him. She smiled in response. "Young Master Qin, you will need to pay twenty taels of silver in order to meet Lady Chen Shuang. You are not allowed to touch her. You can be with her for an hour at most. If you agree to these terms, I will convey your intention to her and see if she is agreeable or not. Furthermore, it will also depend on whether there are any other customers who wish to meet her. It will be on a first come, first serve basis!"


    "Make haste." Tian Bo urged. "Remember to say that Young Master Qin wishes to meet her."


    "Alright, I will be going now." The female attendant left swiftly to deliver the message.


    Qin Yun waited quietly.


    Twenty tales of silver were needed to meet and chat with her. On the other hand, one would need to spend a hundred tales of silver in order to do the same with Fairy Clear Autumn. This was all Qin Yun needed to know to see the differences in their status.


    "Lady Chen Shuang''s sword dance is really incredible. I have met many powerful swordsmen before. They might be stronger than Lady Chen Shuang, but they lack the nuances of her sword dance. Her sword dance seemed to stab straight into my heart."


    "She''s even better with the lute. She is skilled both in the lute and sword dancing. I always felt that she should end up as one of top ten Courtesan Belle candidates for the upcoming selection."


    "She is merely second-rate in Swallow Phoenix Brothel. She¡¯d have to compete with the many renowned courtesans of the many brothels in Grand Dominance City. It is basically impossible for her to break into the top ten."


    The surrounding guests remarked candidly.


    Qin Yun continued waiting.


    Soon, the female attendant briskly returned with a smile. She came to Qin Yun''s side, leaned close and whispered, "Young Master Qin, Lady Chen Shuang is willing to meet you."


    Qin Yun took a deep breath and stood up. He instructed, "Alright. Lead the way."


    "Young Master Qin, please follow me." The female attendant led the way.


    The main building was extremely large, consisting of many winding paths. After exiting the main building, they walked down a corridor that directly connected to the eastern building.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel had four other buildings named the north, south, east, and west buildings. Only distinguished guests were allowed in them. For the east and south buildings, however, the barrier to entry was a little lower. It was possible to enter by simply spending enough money. For example, Qin Yun needed to spend twenty taels of silver just to enter the east building to meet Lady Chen Shuang. This was quite an astounding amount of money. A standard house in Grand Dominance City was only worth about a hundred taels.


    Creak.


    The attendant pushed opened a wooden door. She said with a clear voice, "Lady Chen Shuang, Young Master Qin has arrived."


    "Please enter, Young Master Qin." The female attendant said with a smile.


    Only then did Qin Yun enter.


    The female attendant shut the door from outside with a smile before leaving.


    ¡­


    The moment Qin Yun entered, he saw a middle-aged woman standing on the side.


    "Auntie Xue?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Second Young Master." The middle-aged woman smiled as well.


    At that moment, an elegant figure could not help but pull open the curtains and walk out. Her eyes were welling with tears as she looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun''s body jolted as well. He was full of regret. Why didn''t he return earlier?


    "Little Shuang." Qin Yun spoke.


    "Brother Yun." Lady Chen Shuang ran at him and jumped into his arms.


    Qin Yun hugged Chen Shuang and said softly, "I came back late."


    "I was very afraid, afraid that you would never return. It''s been six years. Brother Yun, you have finally returned." Lady Chen Shuang released Qin Yun as she looked at him with tears streaming down her cheeks. "After my brother passed away, this is the happiest day of my life."


    "I only returned yesterday. Tian Bo told me about Xie Lei just today," Qin Yun sighed. "The city is safe with the government protecting it, but outside the city, there are rivers, lakes, deep mountains, and ancient forests filled with the lairs of demons. Being an armed escort is always a job that will see blood."


    "However, our escort company was handed down for generations. My brother was determined to revitalize its prestige," said Lady Chen Shuang.


    Qin Yun nodded in silence.


    Madman Xie¡­


    With his temper, how could he be afraid of death? His arrogance naturally meant that he would aim to turn the escort company into the number one escort company in Grand Dominance County, or even one of the best in the entire Jiang Prefecture. That must have been his wish. Unfortunately, he had died early.


    "Scram." An angry bellow was heard from outside.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned slightly. There was a din outside that went on for a while.


    ¡­


    In the corridor outside.


    A fat man dressed in resplendent clothes wore a condescending look. He had two guards behind him as he stormed through the premises.


    "Young Master Liu, there''s a customer in there already." The female attendant said anxiously.


    "Customer? In Grand Dominance City, there are few that make me, Liu Qi, wait. Who is this Young Master Qin? How dare he make me wait? He isn''t worthy!" The fatty roared loudly. A female manager on the other end of the corridor hurriedly dashed over. From afar, she shouted, "Young Master Liu, Young Master Liu, calm down. Why do you need to be so angry? Those subordinates don''t know anything. Let me do the talking and get Young Master Qin to leave."


    "Oh? In that case, get him to leave quickly." The fatty bellowed. He was giving the Swallow Phoenix Brothel a chance to redeem itself.


    The female manager pushed opened the door and hurriedly said, "Young Master Qin, I''m sorry. You probably heard what happened outside¡ª"


    "Scram!" Qin Yun said nonchalantly.


    The female manager felt as if she was muzzled.


    The fatty standing outside in the corridor sneered and strode in after hearing that. "I gave you a chance. Yet, you refuse to scram despite being asked to. It looks like I can only use force. Go. Throw that arrogant brat out of the building."


    "Yes." One of the male guards immediately went forward.


    "Young Master Liu, please don''t be mad." Lady Chen Shuang hurriedly apologized. At the same time, she whispered to Qin Yun, "This is Young Master Liu from the Liu family, one of the three biggest family clans of the Grand Dominance County. He cannot be offended."


    The Liu family was a wealthy family in Grand Dominance County. According to what Lady Chen Shuang knew, even silver-badge constable Qin Liehu was not the Liu family''s match.


    "Did you hear that? At least Lady Chen Shuang gets the picture. I won¡¯t do anything untoward in front of her, so hurry up and get lost." The fatty ordered.


    "Liu family? Even if the Liu family''s head was here, he would not dare scream and shout at me, let alone some youngster like you." Qin Yun glared at him. "You can simply jump off this building now to settle the matter. Otherwise, I will have to throw you down myself, and it would not be as light a punishment."


    The fatty was alarmed.


    Could this be a powerful figure from somewhere? However, how could he, as a local tyrant, not have heard of him?


    "Who are you?" asked the fatty.


    "Disappear quickly." Qin Yun frowned.


    "Are you trying to scare me?" The fatty glared at him. "Both of you, go on up and ascertain his strength. I want to see if he''s bragging."


    "Yes."


    One of the two guards was at the seventh level of Qi Refinement while the other was at the eighth level. They were both top experts. It was a clear indication that the Liu family was very powerful!


    Peng! Peng!


    Just as the two guards charged forward ferociously, they transformed into two blurs that flew out of the door, across the railing, and down to the bottom of the building before they even knew what hit them.


    "Oh no." The fatty''s face drained of all color. He did not dare make any more taunts as he turned and ran.


    "Down you go."


    Qin Yun went forward and lifted his foot, kicking the fatty in the ass.


    "Ah!" The fatty issued a shrill scream as he went over the railing and down the building. The two guards, who were seventh and eighth Qi Refinement experts were oddly lying on the ground without being able to get on their feet. All they could do was watch helplessly as their young master fell to the ground. Blood filled the fatty''s mouth as he hurt his face.


    The fatty stood up in pain and quickly yelled, "Why didn''t the two of you catch me?"


    "Young Master, our bodies are completely sore. We don''t even have the strength to stand." The two guards tried their best to get on their feet.


    "Haha¡­"


    "The Liu family''s Liu Qi."


    "How disgraceful."


    "Who was it? Who actually dared to throw him down?"


    Many guests in Swallow Phoenix Brothel held onto the railing and looked down, hoping to catch a glimpse of the embarrassed Young Master Liu Qi from the Liu family. After all, Young Master Liu Qi came from a prestigious family, and indeed had the right to act arrogantly in Grand Dominance City.


    At that moment, Qin Yun walked along the corridor to the railing. He looked down at the fatty''s bloodstained face.


    The fatty looked up and saw the many people looking down at him. Having mustered the courage, he immediately raised his voice, "Qin, tell me your name if you dare!"


    Qin Yun casually pointed his finger.


    Pew!


    A sword beam shot downward immediately, brushing past the fatty''s wide face and into the ground, leaving behind a seemingly bottomless hole in the granite brick-covered ground. The fatty touched his face before looking down at the charred hole. His throat involuntarily swallowed while his body quivered slightly.


    The two guards at his side, who had finally stood up, were so frightened that their faces turned white.


    "The discharging of Quintessential Essence."


    "One who has knocked open the gate of immortality!"


    "An immortal cultivator! He''s an immortal cultivator!"


    The two guards trembled in fear.


    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry. Young Master, please treat me as though I''m just a fart and spare me." The fatty immediately forced a smile in an obsequious manner. Being born into a big family clan, he was acutely aware of how frightening an immortal cultivator was. If the clan head of the Liu family was present, he might still have the qualification to challenge the other party. A member of the younger generation of the Liu family like him, however, did not possess such qualifications.


    "Didn''t you want to know my name? Listen up, Qin Manor, Qin Yun!"


    Qin Yun scanned the area. A large crowd of guests had gathered to watch the commotion. They had already fallen silent after the sword beam. "Lady Chen Shuang is my younger sister. Offending her is equivalent to offending me, Qin Yun."


    Having said that, he turned to return to the room.


    "Close the door." Qin Yun instructed the female manager.


    "Yes, yes." The female manager was still reeling in fright as she hurriedly shut the door.

 11 Indenture Contract?

    Chapter 11: Indenture Contract?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As they watched Chen Shuang''s door in the east building close, the customers, who had been in a stunned silence, began breaking out in a flurry of discussion.


    "Qin Manor? Qin Yun? That''s silver-badge constable Lord Qin''s residence. I know that his second son, Qin Yun, had attained the state of being one with the sword and reached the ninth level of Qi Refinement at thirteen. He was a very talented young man. Eight years later and who would have expected that he is already one of the immortals?" A fat landlord shook his head. "That casual shot from his finger was already quite impressive. Imagine if he had conjured all sorts of Dharmic spells, hehe¡­"


    "Look, the Liu family''s Liu Qi has already run away in fright."


    "Young Master Qin showed mercy because he is from Grand Dominance City. Were he some cultivator that wandered the world, void of any constraints, he might have exterminated Liu Qi with a finger."


    "Now, Lady Chen Shuang will be treated much better. With Young Master Qin backing her, who in Grand Dominance County would dare bully her?"


    The customers continued their discussion.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, inside the room.


    Chen Shuang''s eyes were shimmering like crystals. "Brother Yun, thank you." She knew that Qin Yun had deliberately made his proclamation publicly in order to shock and awe everyone. He wanted to make every customer know that the renowned courtesan, Lady Chen Shuang, was protected by Qin Yun.


    "It''s nothing. I was planning on making an example out of someone anyway. Since that Fatty Liu came, I took the opportunity to establish my authority," said Qin Yun. "Besides, his mouth stank."


    "The Liu family is one of the three largest family clans of Grand Dominance County. Will you be in any trouble?" asked Chen Shuang worriedly.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "Those with true strength in this world are either in the government, where they control massive amounts of power, or they are cultivators. The rest are not worth mentioning!"


    There were few in Grand Dominance County that could make Qin Yun feel any fear.


    One of them would be the county governor. The county governor was in control of both military and political power. As a result of demons and monsters wreaking havoc, he had the authority to persecute any official under the seventh grade without permission from his superiors! As such, even the political powers of Grand Dominance County did not dare defy him. One word from him, and his enemy would become the enemy of the entire government juggernaut.


    Despite their strength, cultivators were still wary of the power wielded by the government.


    Even for powerful figures at the Connate Golden Core realm, an order from the government in response to their actions would have them running like a fugitive.


    Thankfully, the county governor''s term only lasted three years. And only two consecutive terms were allowed before they had to be transferred elsewhere.


    "By the way, let me settle the indenture contract you have with Swallow Phoenix Brothel. Prepare to leave with me tonight," Qin Yun said directly.


    Chen Shuang was taken aback.


    Auntie Xue, who was by the side, also looked at Qin Yun in shock.


    "Indenture contract?" Chen Shuang asked hesitantly.


    "What?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "About the indenture contract, actually¡­" Chen Shuang continued hesitantly, "There''s no such thing!"


    Qin Yun was surprised. "Didn''t you sell yourself to Swallow Phoenix Brothel? Tian Bo even said that you sold yourself for twenty thousand taels. With such a huge sum of money at stake, it''s impossible that Swallow Phoenix Brothel did not force you to sign an indenture contract."


    Chen Shuang smiled helplessly as she said, "Brother Yun, I entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel with an ordinary contract. You can ask Auntie Xue if you have any doubts."


    Qin Yun turned to look at Auntie Xue.


    Auntie Xue was part of the Xie family. She was Xie Lei and Xie Shuang''s aunt! Since the siblings'' mother died young and their father was bedridden, Auntie Xue was the one that took care of them.


    "It''s only an ordinary contract, and not an indenture contract." Auntie Xue nodded. "I would never allow Little Shuang to truly sell herself."


    "Then, why was it spread that you signed an indenture contract?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun," Chen Shuang said, "Back when my brother went on the escort mission, he lost his life along with those of many people from the company. My Xie family had to go bankrupt to compensate the poor families that had lost their men. That part of the story is true! Afterwards, the mysterious customer that hired us for the armed escort learned of the sacrifices our Xie family made and so did not ask for any compensation. Although I wanted to compensate them anyway for the sake of our Xie family''s reputation, the mysterious customer only took one tael of silver before leaving."


    "The Xie family only had me, a sixteen-year-old girl, left. My Xie family had been in the escort services industry for years and lived our lives on the edge of a blade. As such, we have quite a few debts of blood." Chen Shuang continued, "Without anyone to rely on, our enemies would quickly hunt me down if I tried to maintain the Xie family business. I would probably have lost my life. Therefore, I entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel on my own accord."


    "The contract was an ordinary one. All that was communicated to the outside world was that I had sold myself to enter Swallow Phoenix Brothel." Chen Shuang said, "With that, my enemies knew that the Swallow Phoenix Brothel had spent a great deal of money on me. To attack me would be to attack the interests of the Swallow Phoenix Brothel!"


    "Swallow Phoenix Brothel was also very willing to do this! By letting the outside world know that they had spent nearly twenty thousand taels of silver on me, they enhanced their reputation. It would allow Swallow Phoenix Brothel to earn more money." Chen Shuang said, "As for the enemies of the Xie family, they were easily frightened back when it was just my brother around. To the Swallow Phoenix Brothel, they are nothing."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel was the most famous brothel in Grand Dominance County. Silver flowed in like water on a daily basis. It was where government officials and the rich gathered. It was a force to be reckoned with on its own. Furthermore, for the brothel to be run as well as it currently was, it definitely had to have a powerful backer!


    "Don''t lie to me. An indenture contract isn''t a trivial matter," said Qin Yun.


    "Why would I lie to you? You can ask the east building''s manager if you don''t believe me," said Chen Shuang. "She knows all about my situation."


    "Let me ask." Qin Yun didn''t mind the trouble as he went out.


    He opened the door to find that the female attendant and manager were standing close by. Qin Yun immediately asked, "You are the manager, right? I have something to ask you."


    The female manager immediately responded, "Young Master Qin, how may I help you?"


    "It is true that Little Shuang has not sold herself to Swallow Phoenix Brothel, and that she only has an ordinary contract?" asked Qin Yun.


    The female manager hesitated for a moment.


    "You are a manager, do not lie to me." Qin Yun glanced at her. For some unknown reason, she could not help but feel a sense of panic. She did not dare lie, and instead said politely, "Second Young Master, it''s only an ordinary contract. We did tell the public that it was about twenty thousand taels of silver, but it was empty talk. Because of this, Chen Shuang was able to stay in the east building the moment she entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Being able to live in the east building brought her the accolades of being a renowned courtesan.


    Saying that they had spent nearly twenty thousand taels of silver on her also elevated her status. Otherwise, how could a rookie become a renowned courtesan immediately? Of course, Chen Shuang herself had several excellent factors in her favor. Her fingers were not sullied by household chores and she was well-educated. Her lute and sword dancing were also impressive. She had exceptional looks. With all of these factors, it was possible to lavish and sing her praises.


    If not, it was also impossible for them to elevate mud any higher.


    "If we don¡¯t do such things, how long will it take for a rookie to slowly rise up?" The female manager immediately gave an obsequious smile.


    "Alright, you may leave," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    The female manager quickly left.


    Only then did Qin Yun return to the room.


    "There''s actually no indenture contract." Qin Yun was honestly surprised. He said with a smile, "Rumors of the outside world really cannot be treated as the truth."


    "Brother Yun." Chen Shuang held Qin Yun''s arm and gently rocked it. She said, "I really had no other options at the time."


    "Since you didn''t sign an indenture contract and I''m back, you can ignore your enemies. Leave with me. You can stay in Qin Manor. It''s even easier to end an ordinary contract," said Qin Yun.


    Chen Shuang hesitated.


    "What¡¯s wrong?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    Chen Shuang looked at Qin Yun and said, "Brother Qin, although you want me to return with you, and I know you are doing it for my own good, will I have to live my days out in Qin Manor?"


    "You can leave this place and find someone you love in the future. You can marry and have a family," said Qin Yun.


    "Marry?" Chen Shuang shook her head. "I have already become a courtesan. It''s something that will stick with me for the rest of my life, so how am I to marry anyone?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "You mention marrying someone, but who? If you are talking about rich family clans, they would never take me in as a wife. At most, I''d be a concubine! I''d rather remained unmarried my entire life than be a concubine." Chen Shuang''s eyes were filled with determination under her sword-like brows.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. It was true that the position of a concubine was just a little higher than that of a maidservant. With Little Shuang''s pride, how could she be willing to be a concubine?


    As for being the principal wife? She was also correct that wealthy family clans would never take in a renowned courtesan as a principal wife.


    "The only ones that would be willing to take me in as a wife are probably those from families of little significance." Chen Shuang shook her head. "I have been in Swallow Phoenix Brothel for more than two years. The number of people courting me is uncountable. It''s fine when I''m in Swallow Phoenix Brothel, but if I were to marry into an insignificant family, I would only bring disaster upon them."


    "When I became a courtesan, I was destined to never marry." Chen Shuang shook her head. "As for leaving, am I to live alone in that huge manor? Brother Yun, do you want me to lead such a life?"


    Qin Yun was deep in thought.


    "In Swallow Phoenix Brothel, I have my sisters to accompany me. I can learn dancing, musical instruments, sword techniques, and be courted by countless guests," said Chen Shuang. "In my opinion, I''ll be happier leading such a life."


    "Since I have entered a brothel, I will never wash clean my taintedness." Chen Shuang smiled faintly. "I might as well lead as happy a life as I can. Also, my contract with Swallow Phoenix Brothel is only an ordinary one. I can leave by paying them a small amount of money. I have already saved up three thousand taels of silver over the past two or more years with them. I can leave at any time!"


    "I can stay or leave. As it is, I am fairly free. Furthermore, I''m already accustomed to this. I have a rich and colorful life here."


    Chen Shuang looked at Qin Yun and said, "Brother Yun, can you understand my thoughts?"


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly.


    The young girl from his memories had grown up! Previously, he was afraid that she would be mentally scarred after losing her loved ones and entering a brothel. Since she was happy, all was well.


    "I''m quite enjoying these days of being a renowned courtesan." Chen Shuang smiled at Qin Yun. "Why, Brother Yun, do you look down on renowned courtesans? Do you find it shameful that you have a renowned courtesan as a younger sister?"


    "Haha, humans in this world lead a life like the fleeting snow. Life is too short. Living a happy life is what matters!" Qin Yun nodded. "Little Shuang, if you like this lifestyle of yours, then there''s no need to worry about how others view you. Remember, regardless of where you are, you still have an elder brother watching your back. If you have any grievances or troubles, tell me. Don''t hold it all in."


    Qin Yun was a cultivator. He had seen so much life and death, so he naturally did not care how the secular world viewed him.


    ¡­

 12 Renowned Courtesan Chen Shuang

    Chapter 12: Renowned Courtesan Chen Shuang


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Alright."


    Chen Shuang nodded in excitement. She never imagined that Qin Yun would understand her so well. She was afraid that he would leave in anger.


    "By the way, while I was outside, I heard about the Courtesan Belle selection," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Are you participating in it?"


    "Yes, Brother Yun, although the sisters in Swallow Phoenix Brothel treat each other as comrades, there are still some open and veiled contentions." Chen Shuang said with a smile. "Also, we can be competitive with the renowned courtesans from other brothels. I too am someone who will not easily back down and admit defeat, so naturally, there will be some strife."


    Qin Yun chuckled. "Where there are people, there is strife. Even among renowned courtesans in brothels, quarrels are still intense."


    "It''s far more intense than in other places."


    Chen Shuang smiled and continued, "After all, the greater one''s reputation is, the more money is at stake. The competition between us naturally becomes more intense. Furthermore, many renowned courtesans have someone wealthy backing them. This makes the competition even more intense. On the surface, we are amiable sisters, but there is no lack of gnashing teeth in the dark! Brother Yun, don''t you think that such strife is rather interesting?"


    "As long as you are happy." Qin Yun laughed as well.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Chen Shuang engaged in idle banter and talked about her days in the brothel. Qin Yun also recounted some interesting tidbits from his travels out in the world.


    "Alright, it''s about time I go. I have already overstayed my welcome by more than an hour." Qin Yun got up. Swallow Phoenix Brothel had given Qin Yun face and had not disturbed him.


    "Brother Yun, there''s no need for you to come see me here in the future. It costs you. When I''m free, I''ll go to Qin Manor during the day." Chen Shuang said while beaming. "Auntie Xue, please accompany Brother Yun down."


    "Take care of yourself. Come to me if you suffer any tribulations," Qin Yun said with a laugh.


    Following that, he walked out with Auntie Xue.


    Chen Shuang walked to the door and silently watched Qin Yun leave.


    ******


    On the way out, they passed through Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s main building.


    Qin Yun said, "Auntie Xue, please tell me immediately if anything happens to Little Shuang. I know that renowned courtesans will inevitably run into trouble in such a complicated place. The ancients stated that alcohol, sex, wealth, and temper are the four troubles. Sex alone has led many to lose their minds, often making them lose their lives in the process as well."


    "I know. We have always been very careful. Swallow Phoenix Brothel has provided very good protection. There are also some from the older generation from the escort company that are willing to look out for Little Shuang." Auntie Xue added.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded and walked to where Tian Bo was. "Little Bobo, let''s go."


    "Aren''t we going to watch more?" Tian Bo was still listening to the melody performed onstage.


    "No." Qin Yun urged.


    "Alright then." Tian Bo grabbed two servings of dessert and stuffed them into his mouth before taking another two in hand. "There''s so much left uneaten."


    Qin Yun and Tian Bo walked out.


    There were many guests that looked at Qin Yun with reverence. The Liu family''s Young Master Liu Qi had been thrown down the building by Qin Yun. They also witnessed the sword beam that he shot as a threat, so they knew he was an immortal cultivator.


    ''Young Master Qin, Young Master Tian. This way please." The old procuress said warmly. The moment they stepped out the door, the servants were already waiting outside with their horses in rein.


    "Auntie Xue, go back in." Qin Yun said with a smile. Following that, he mounted his horse and left with Tian Bo.


    Auntie Xue watched from afar.


    "It appears Chen Shuang will have good days ahead of her," joked the old procuress. "Probably no one will dare to bully her openly. By the way, Sister Xue, what relationship does she have with Young Master Qin?"


    Auntie Xue chuckled. "Childhood friends!"


    Following that, she turned to return to Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    "Childhood friends?" The old procuress waited till Auntie Xue was a distance away before she scoffed. "If that were true, why would he let her stay here in a brothel? He would have taken her back to his manor. He''s probably just humoring her."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Tian Bo returned on horseback.


    "How was your chat with Sister Xie Shuang? Were you able to resolve her indenture contract?" asked Tian Bo. "After all, the price of the contract is nearly twenty thousand taels of silver. It''s difficult to settle that even for a cultivator like you, right?"


    The cool evening breeze blew across their faces.


    Qin Yun shook his head gently and said, "She did not sell herself to the brothel. It''s only an ordinary contract. I confirmed it with Swallow Phoenix Brothel. Just don¡¯t tell anyone else."


    "It''s not an indentured contract?" Tian Bo was alarmed. "Then why didn''t you bring her out of there?"


    Qin Yun said, "She is now a courtesan after all. Even if she leaves the brothel, there''s no way she can be married into a distinguished family as the principal wife. She is unwilling to become a concubine, and weaker families are unable to protect her¡­ She told me that her days in the brothel are rather good. She feels that she would be happier living there than living alone in the deep recesses of a manor. Since Little Shuang is happy, I''ll just leave it to her. Furthermore, hers is an ordinary contract. She can leave at any time, even without my help."


    "If she can leave, why is she staying in the brothel?" Tian Bo could not help but ask, "Brother Yun, you must be silly."


    "Humans live less than a hundred years so why should one worry about how others view them? As long as she''s happy there," said Qin Yun.


    "Even so, it''s still a questionable place," said Tian Bo. "How can you stand by and watch Sister Xie Shuang live out her life in there? Regardless of anything, she should be taken away from there. You can''t be at the mercy of her temper."


    "Do you look down on renowned courtesans?" Qin Yun looked at Tian Bo.


    Tian Bo hesitated before saying, "From my point of view, she is bedazzled by the opulent way of life. Her innocent heart has been marred by the countless courting of the guests. She can''t return and doesn''t wish to return."


    Qin Yun remembered the look in Little Shuang''s eyes.


    "She isn''t bedazzled nor has had her heart marred," said Qin Yun.


    ******


    Meanwhile, back in Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    Auntie Xue passed through the main building and walked along the corridor to the east building to return to Chen Shuang''s room.


    "Auntie Xue." Chen Shuang was sitting there, silently writing calligraphy. "Has Brother Yun left?"


    "Yes, he has gone back." Auntie Xue said, "Little Shuang, why don''t you return with Qin Yun and lead a peaceful life?"


    "No!"


    Chen Shuang said softly, "I will never forget the grudge of my brother! I will never forget the hundreds of men who lost their lives on that escort mission! There is no way I can lead a peaceful life!"


    "Then, why didn''t you tell Qin Yun the truth? The deaths of your brother and the hundreds of men from the escort company were not solely caused by demons. The true cause was the Baili family from East Gong County, who instigated the demons to commit murder." Auntie Xue said anxiously, "The Baili family is too powerful. Furthermore, Qin Yun has finally knocked open the gate of immortality. He is now an immortal cultivator. If he aids you, you¡¯d have a greater chance of you getting your revenge."


    "Baili family." Chen Shuang''s eyes flashed with a cold glint.


    Demons wreaked havoc in this world.


    However, there were some powerful family clans that colluded with demons! They would commit murder or robbery under the guise of random demon attacks.


    "The Baili family is East Gong County''s largest family clan. Their roots run deep. Even the local county governor fears them. The county governor changes but the Baili family remains immutable." Chen Shuang whispered, "The Patriarch of the Baili family is a powerful cultivator at the Connate True Core realm who has lived for more than two centuries. The Baili family is deeply rooted in an intricate mess. Many demons are subservient to them."


    "My Brother Yun has only just knocked open the gate of immortality, so how can he be their match? If I ask for his help, it would only put him in danger. I''d be harming him!"


    "I have already lost one brother. I cannot lose my last one."


    Chen Shuang said softly, "Let''s act according to the original plan. Sex itself is a formidable asset. History tells of many beauties who have brought down a family clan or even an entire city. There are even countries that have succumbed to a beauty! I do not wish to fell a country nor do I wish to destroy a city. The Baili family is only one family clan. I do not believe that I can''t deal with them using my own power."


    "Little Shuang, it''s not too late to do something before you have regret, even if you do not tell Qin Yun now. Just wait until the day Qin Yun has the power to help you. It wouldn''t be too late to tell him then. If you continue on this path, you will only sink deeper. I''m afraid you will end up so far gone that you can¡¯t turn back." Auntie Xue said hurriedly. Her heart pained for Xie Shuang as she watched her walk down such a treacherous path.


    "Since the day I entered Swallow Phoenix Brothel, the person known as Xie Shuang no longer exists, only Chen Shuang¡ªthe renowned courtesan, Chen Shuang." Chen Shuang continued writing and did not speak further.


    Auntie Xue shook her head slightly.


    She had often tried to persuade her, but she had never managed to waver Chen Shuang''s resolve.


    "Brother Yun." Chen Shuang revealed a faint smile as she muttered softly, "Seeing you come back is truly nice."

 13 Never Escaping the Considerations of Utility

    Chapter 13: Never Escaping the Considerations of Utility


    Translator: CKtalon Editor: CKtalon


    After Chen Shuang reproduced a few poems, she said, "Auntie Xue, Yu Bai, one of the four great scholars of Jiangnan, has been in Grand Dominance County for a few days now. There are probably many women from the brothels who wish to meet him. Have you caught wind of who he has met with?"


    Since ancient times, the Jiang and Qian Prefectures have been collectively called Jiangnan. It was a place where many talents gathered. Scholars were one such talent.


    The four great scholars of Jiangnan enjoyed a great reputation throughout the entire world. They were sought after by the women from the brothels. Some didn''t even want money, and were actually willing to pay the scholars! Some were even willing to become their concubines.


    "I''ve not heard anything of that sort." Auntie Xue said, "I''ll get Old Shen to continue investigating the matter."


    "Alright."


    Chen Shuang pricked up her sword-like brows slightly. "This great scholar has come to Grand Dominance County just as the Courtesan Belle selection is about to be held! It might be a coincidence, but perhaps he wants to gain some benefit from intervening in the Courtesan Belle selection."


    "If it''s just a county selection of a Courtesan Belle, there should be no need for such a great scholar to get involved, right?" Auntie Xue could not help but ask.


    "If he has ulterior motives, it will be difficult to get him to aid me," Chen Shuang said. "If it really is just a coincidence, there might be a small chance of him helping me."


    With that, Chen Shuang revealed a grin. "However, those women from the brothels have also become stupid after spending so much time in such a questionable place. For a great scholar like him, who is famous throughout the world, it''s unknown how many renowned courtesans look up to him. How can it be easy to convince such a great scholar to help them?"


    "Get Old Shen to watch him for me. Observe his every move." Chen Shuang said, "Report to me at any time."


    "Alright." Auntie Xue nodded.


    ******


    Qin Yun and Tian Bo returned on horseback under the night sky.


    When they passed by a stone bridge, they saw a restaurant boat floating in the quiet Flower Solarium river beneath them.


    "Oh?"


    There was a bevy of young girls on the boat accompanying two men drinking and enjoying the music.


    "It''s the great scholar, Yu Bai," Tian Bo hurriedly said.


    "Yu Bai? One of the four great scholars, Yu Bai. If I recall, he''s from Southbright County, right? Why would he be here in Grand Dominance County?" Qin Yun looked over as well. The world needed erudite scholars to govern it. They were different than immortal cultivators, who were like legends. In comparison, scholars were much greater in number. The number of county or provincial scholars was several times more than the number of cultivators. And among scholars, the four great scholars of Jiangnan was absolutely the most famous.


    "I have no idea why he is here in Grand Dominance County. However, I do know that the renowned courtesans of Grand Dominance County''s brothels are going crazy for him," Tian Bo said wistfully. "People like us spend money on renowned courtesans, but the renowned courtesans do the opposite. They are willing to spend money on this Mister Bai. There are a number who are willing to marry him too."


    "He''s one of the four great scholars of Jiangnan after all. His literature is famous throughout the world. It''s only natural that he has many admirers," remarked Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, you think too simply." Tian Bo chuckled and said, "The four great scholars of Jiangnan are indeed famous throughout the world! However, if a renowned courtesan were to be involved with Yu Bai by having a fabulous love affair with him, one filled with passion, any mention of the great scholar Yu Bai would by nature include that renowned courtesan! That renowned courtesan''s fame would then expand beyond a city or land. It would similarly be known throughout the world! With such fame on the line, do you think a mere ten or twenty taels of silver will win an audience with him? Dream on! It''s at least two or three hundred taels of silver!"


    "Having a fabulous love affair with him? Furthermore, one filled with passion? If Yu Bai conducts himself with dignity, it wouldn''t end up in such a manner, right?" asked Qin Yun.


    "How can anyone figure out the affairs of the heart? Moreover, even if there''s no intense passion, all that needs to happen is Yu Bai being smitten by her and writing a poem for her. Once that poem spreads, everyone would know that the great scholar Yu Bai wrote it for a particular renowned courtesan. The renowned courtesan''s fame would naturally be elevated."


    Tian Bo continued, "Even if he were stingy with his poems and was unwilling to write a poem for her, as long as the renowned courtesan remains in a relationship with him for a month or two, it can be announced to the public that the great scholar Yu Bai was smitten by this renowned courtesan. He stayed behind for months instead of returning home. The renowned courtesan would similarly enjoy great benefits from that."


    "Fame! That is essential to a renowned courtesan."


    "The greater the fame, the more people will seek an audience with her. The cost of a single meeting would also go up." Tian Bo said, "Brother Yun, do you now understand why such a great scholar is so sought after by these renowned courtesans?"


    Qin Yun nodded and was somewhat enlightened.


    "To become an area''s renowned courtesan, one typically has to have pretty good qualities. Their beauty, skills, and charm all must meet a rather high standard. The only thing lacking is sufficient fame." Tian Bo said, "Fame means money! They might be able to save up a thousand taels of silver in one year but with a great scholar aiding them, they can earn perhaps three to five thousand taels of silver a year. It''s a severalfold increase! Tell me, how can he not be sought by them?"


    "The pairing of a scholar and a beauty is such a wonderful pairing. Yet, you have incisively laid out the utilitarian aspects of everything." Qin Yun shook his head and laughed. However, he did find what Tian Bo said to be reasonable.


    "Utilitarian?"


    Tian Bo shook his head and said, "I was once young, with will and spirit. I believed more in ties of comradeship. However, when I first took over part of my father''s food and beverage business, things went quite badly and I suffered numerous setbacks. I had even secretly slapped myself in the face numerous times. Only then did I learn that all the hustle and bustle of the world is only for utility and money. To survive in the secular world, there is almost no way of escaping utility!"


    "There might be an extreme few renowned courtesans that really admire that great scholar''s talents. However, I dare say that nearly all of them are pursuing him for fame. With fame comes money!"


    Qin Yun laughed when he heard his friend''s philosophy. "Little Bobo, you are no longer the same! However, there are still ties of comradeship in this world."


    "Yes, it''s because this world is too utilitarian that ties of comradeship become more precious," replied Tian Bo.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Back then, Tian Bo was only a shy youth that tagged behind him. Tian Bo had now changed and matured.


    "By the way," Qin Yun suddenly thought of something as he asked. "Do you think that great scholar would be able to help Little Shuang? For the upcoming Courtesan Belle selection, can Little Shuang have a chance at becoming Courtesan Belle?"


    "You want to help Sister Xie Shuang?"


    Tian Bo considered for a moment. "It depends on how you want to help her. As long as this great scholar is truly willing to put in the time and effort, she would definitely be able to enter the top ten. It might even be possible for her to enter the top three! As for Courtesan Belle? That would be difficult! People like Fairy Clear Autumn and Lady Scented Dress are famous everywhere. It''s hard to surpass them."


    "Top three?" Qin Yun ruminated.


    "If this great scholar is really willing to help Sister Xie Shuang, haha, you probably won''t be able to meet her with just twenty taels of silver. It will start from at least fifty taels of silver."


    Tian Bo continued, "However, the greater the scholar, the more they conduct themselves with dignity. They will not easily entangle themselves too deeply with renowned courtesans. I heard that even Fairy Clear Autumn sent him an invitation, but he ignored her."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly as he thought to himself, "Since Little Shuang is accustomed to the beautiful illusions of the brothel, I should help her lead a better life in such a complicated place."


    The livelihood of renowned courtesans was really determined by their fame.


    Without fame, they would resemble fairies falling from heaven into a muddy ditch. The even more tragic ones might end up being sent to brothels that sold sexual services. That would truly be lamentable.


    "Little Shuang." Qin Yun treated her as a younger sister of his. Although his heart pained for her to walk down such a path, all he could do was try his best to make it better for her.

 14 Hundred Thousand Taels of Silver

    Chapter 14: Hundred Thousand Taels of Silver


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Tian Bo left on horseback before eventually parting ways.


    As for the restaurant boat that they had encountered on the Flower Solarium river, it finally slowly approached the shore.


    "Brother Yu Bai, farewell."


    "Brother Wang, it''s already getting late. Take care."


    The great scholar, Yu Bai bade his friend farewell.


    Yu Bai was rather handsome and had an elegant bearing. However, there was something decadent about him. Just as he was about to leave with his servants and guards, an old procuress disembarked the boat and hurriedly called out, "Master Yu."


    "Oh, what''s the matter?" Yu Bai said nonchalantly.


    The old procuress quickly took on a submissive tone and said, "Our Dreamlike Pavilion Lady has always been your ardent admirer and loved your poems. She wonders if she might have a chance to meet you."


    "I am here in Grand Dominance for important matters. I''m sorry, but I am unable to meet her." Yu Bai responded nonchalantly.


    The procuress rapidly followed up with: "Our Pavilion Lady really admires you. Can you not at least meet her to alleviate her pining for you?"


    "There''s no need." Noticing that she was about to continue, Yu Bai immediately turned around and left.


    As the old procuress watched his back, all she could do was stamp her feet before returning to the boat dejectedly.


    Yu Bai carefreely led his servants and guards on their journey.


    "Master, that Dreamlike Pavilion Lady sure has her means. She has already requested a meeting several times. Even though you were invited to that restaurant boat by your friend, that old procuress just now was another subordinate of hers. She really does not miss a single chance to send you an invitation." The guard said with a smile. "Yet up to this day, she has yet to make an appearance herself."


    "Dreamlike Pavilion Lady." Yu Bai laughed as he said, "She was once a renowned courtesan in the capital, but even there she was lacking in fame! However, there are no shortage of high officials and nobles in the capital. She has indeed managed to accumulate some wealth and connections with these officials. Then, as she grew older, she returned to her hometown of Grand Dominance County and established the Dreamlike Pavilion! She even made herself Pavilion Lady. I heard that at the Courtesan Belle selection two years ago, she used all of her connections to forcefully win the title of Courtesan Belle."


    "If she were young, that would have been fine. It would have been duly deserved. However, she''s no longer young. She can¡¯t compare to her younger self. She doesn''t have many admirers, either. When she won Courtesan Belle two years ago, she earned the resentment of many people in Grand Dominance County resented. They found it unfair!"


    "She wants me to help her but why should I?" Yu Bai immediately smiled. "Women have to know themselves. At an old age, one shouldn''t contend with the young ladies."


    "Master, how old is Dreamlike Pavilion Lady this year?" asked the guard.


    "Although Qi Refinement can extend one''s youthfulness, she''s already thirty-five." Yu Bai shook his head. "For a renowned courtesan, that''s just too old."


    "She''s that old?"


    "She''s already more than ten years older than me. She''s nearly my mother''s age." Another servant by the side exclaimed in astonishment.


    Yu Bai laughed.


    ¡­


    After a leisurely stroll, Yu Bai and his entourage arrived at the inn where he was temporarily lodging.


    "Master! Master!" Another servant that had been waiting at the inn ran over hurriedly.


    "What has gotten you so excited?" Yu Bai asked.


    "Master, I received news of an immortal cultivator," the servant said eagerly.


    "Immortal cultivator?" Yu Bai''s eyes lit up. "Quickly tell me more. Who is this immortal cultivator? What''s his name and where is he from?"


    "I heard the news from Swallow Phoenix Brothel. He''s an immortal cultivator named Qin Yun." The servant hurriedly said. "I heard that he is a local of Grand Dominance County. At the age of thirteen, he was already one with the sword and cultivated to the ninth level of the Qi Refinement realm. Six years ago, he left home to roam the world. He recently returned as an immortal, having knocked open the gate of immortality! Just tonight at Swallow Phoenix Brothel, Qin Yun threw the Liu family''s young master, Liu Qi, down the building, turning his face into a bloody mess! This immortal cultivator even said ''Lady Chen Shuang is my younger sister. Offending her is equivalent to offending me, Qin Yun.''"


    The servant went as far as to imitate Qin Yun.


    "Swallow Phoenix Brothel, Lady Chen Shuang?" Yu Bai''s heart stirred as he hurriedly asked, "Where does this immortal Qin Yun live?"


    "He is a local of Grand Dominance City. He lives in Qin Manor." The servant hastily added, "In all of Grand Dominance County, there is only one place that is called Qin Manor. It''s the silver-badge constable, Lord Qin Liehu''s, residence. That Qin Yun is the Qin Manor''s second young master."


    Yu Bai nodded. "Ah Fu, send a letter of mine to the Qin Manor tomorrow."


    "Yes," the servant Ah Fu said politely.


    Yu Bai''s eyes turned deep and serene as he thought to himself, "I wonder how deep the relationship between this immortal cultivator, Qin Yun, and that renowned courtesan, Lady Chen Shuang, goes. I wonder if he has the ability to help me!"


    "Also, go and find out for me what sort of relationship that immortal cultivator Qin Yun has with that Lady Chen Shuang." Yu Bai instructed.


    "Master, it will be done, rest assured." Ah Fu hurriedly replied.


    ******


    The sun rose on Qin Manor¡¯s practice grounds, beginning the next day.


    Qin Yun was leisurely practicing his swordplay. It was still slow but the sword beams were a blur, like something out of a dream or illusion. If Lady Chen Shuang''s sword dance was the combination of sword techniques and dancing that aesthetically pleased people, then Qin Yun''s pure swordplay could make anyone who watched it fall into a dreamlike world. They would not be able to help themselves from being intoxicated. It far exceeded the boundaries of artistry.


    "Phew." After sheathing his sword, Qin Yun headed for breakfast.


    As he drank thick rice porridge, he heard conversations coming from outside. Soon, he saw Qin Liehu and Qin An walk in together.


    "Father, you haven''t been back for two nights," Qin Yun said with a smile. "Quickly come and drink a bowl of porridge."


    Qin Liehu sat down and immediately drank a few mouthfuls. He finished about half of a big bowl of porridge before giving the order, "Everyone else is dismissed."


    "Yes, Master." The maidservants that were tending to them quickly retreated.


    There were only Qin Liehu and his two sons left in the hall.


    "Brother, you brought your wife and children here?" Qin Yun said with a smile. He had come home late last night and didn''t notice until the morning.


    "Demons were targeting me. Although you told me that you have resolved the issue, how can I feel at ease? It''s fine if I die, but if anything untoward happens to my wife and children¡­" Qin An hurriedly said, "It''s best I come back. There''s Father and you here! I will feel more at ease here."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded slightly. Yes, his brother was after all an ordinary person. How could he not fear demons?


    However, Qin Liehu looked at Qin Yun and said, "Yun''er, I heard from your brother that on the night you came back, you did some secret investigating and resolved the trouble that was plaguing him? Is it that old demon, Chu Yong?"


    "The one hiding in Brother''s residence was a cat demoness. She had been hiding there for half a year." Qin Yun drank two mouthfuls of porridge before continuing with a smile, "She was doing it under orders. The one behind it was that old demon leader, Chu Yong. That night, after capturing the cat demoness, I followed the clues and went to the old demon Chu Yong''s underground palace. He admitted that he wanted to make Brother a demonic slave so he could threaten you. After learning this, I wiped out all the demons, including Chu Yong!"


    "So, it was really you who did it."


    Qin Liehu sighed. "Back when I went to the underground palace and learned that it belonged to the old demon Chu Yong, it crossed my mind that you were the one to end him! However, I then thought that you were too young and had only recently knocked open the gate of immortality, so it was unlikely that you were the old demon''s match."


    "Father, you have underestimated Brother," Qin An said.


    "It''s been six years. Yun''er''s strength is a lot greater than I expected," said Qin Liehu with a laugh.


    "Chu Yong''s hide was indeed rather thick. Even thousands of arrows or a powerful shot from a crossbow would not be able to penetrate his skin." Qin Yun said with a sigh.


    "Yun''er, you have eliminated a great problem for our Grand Dominance City. When that old demon was entrenched in the city, he caused a great deal of harm. In that underground palace of his, there was a pit of white bones. They were the remains of the humans he ate." Qin Liehu shook his head. "These demons deserve to be killed."


    "He ate humans? Pit of white bones?" Qin An was alarmed.


    "Humans eat beasts while demons eat humans. It''s very commonplace." Qin Yun said, "Demons can be both good and bad. There are many good demons as well. However, demons like Chu Yong deserve death."


    "An''er, do not spread the news of your brother killing the demon Chu Yong." Qin Liehu exhorted him.


    "I understand." Qin An immediately nodded.


    ¡­


    At that moment, something happened in the county governor''s residence. The county governor''s residence was naturally large, considering that they had hundred personal guards stationed there.


    A colorful-robed man was nervously standing in a tiny yard, waiting.


    "I wonder why the county governor suddenly summoned me." The colorful-robed man was feeling anxious. He had no other option. Although he was the patriarch of the wealthy Liu family, one of the top three family clans in all of Grand Dominance county, he knew very well that the Liu family had come this far because of the county governor! In front of the county governor, his Liu family was just a dog!


    A dog had to loyally watch the house.


    If the master threw a bone, the dog had to cock its head and wag its tail and enjoy the bone.


    One day, the master might even kill the dog! And the dog¡¯s only choice was to die in silence!


    "I don''t think I did anything wrong. Whatever he ordered me to do has been done perfectly." The colorful-robed man had various thoughts surfacing in his mind.


    "Patriarch Liu, please follow me," said an old servant with a smile.


    "Steward Wang, do you know why the county governor suddenly summoned me?" Patriarch Liu approached Steward Wang in a fawning manner as he stuffed a banknote into his hands. Noticing that it was a note for a hundred taels of silver, Steward Wang revealed a smile and whispered, "Don''t worry. Master seems to be in a good mood. I doubt it''s anything serious."


    Patriarch Liu heaved a sigh of relief.


    Soon, he was led into a garden.


    An elder dressed in a simple gray robe was sitting across a blue-robed man.


    "Greetings Lord County Governor and Commander Fang!" The moment Patriarch Liu arrived, he immediately bowed politely.


    There was no need to mention the county governor. He was an existence that had absolute control over both the military and political powers in Grand Dominance County. No one dared defy his orders. He had the authority to persecute any official under the seventh grade without permission from his superiors. Above the seventh grade, he could directly remand them. In order to deal with demons, it had to be ensured that the county governor''s words carried weight! Wealthy family clans of certain regions could be vanquished for any reason on the county governor¡¯s order.


    As for the blue-robed man, he was, on the surface, the strongest person in Grand Dominance County. He was a Connate False Core realm who was commander of the county governor''s personal guards!


    "Regarding the money that the Liu family needs to hand over every year, do not leave it to the end of the year." The gray-robed elder said casually, "I need it within half a month. Will you be able to do that?"


    Patriarch Liu felt a knot in his heart.


    The Liu family had earned large amounts of money with the county governor¡¯s backing. Naturally, it had to offer large amounts of money as a tribute. However, the offering was typically done at the end of the year. It was presently only March.


    "By the way, I need a hundred thousand taels." The gray-robed elder added.


    Patriarch Liu pricked up his brows. Wasn''t it usually eighty thousand taels of silver a year? Why did it increase?


    However, Patriarch Liu did not grumble at all. "Lord County Governor, rest assured. I will definitely raise the hundred thousand taels in half a month."


    "Alright." The gray-robed elder nodded slightly. "I heard that Liu Qi clashed with Qin Manor''s second young master at Swallow Phoenix Brothel last night?"


    "Yes, yes, yes." Patriarch Liu hurriedly said. "I have reprimanded him for his terrible decision-making."


    "Your luck isn''t bad. That second master of the Qin Manor showed mercy." The gray-robed elder casually waved his hand. "Alright, you are dismissed."


    "Yes, yes!"


    Patriarch Liu immediately retreated obediently. However, his mind was spinning with questions. "Why would the Lord County Governor suddenly mention the Qin Manor''s second young master? Even if he has knocked open the gate of immortality, he has yet to enter the Connate realm. He shouldn''t matter. Commander Fang himself is already an immortal at the Connate False Core realm!"

 15 Dossier Records

    Chapter 15: Dossier Records


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As the gray-robed elder watched Patriarch Liu leave, he said with a smile, "Old Fang, Qin family''s second young master has already delivered such a show of force the moment he returned. He even exterminated that old demon, Chu Yong. Impressive."


    "He is, after all, an immortal cultivator that has served in the northern borders." The blue-robed man, Commander Fang had a rare look of solemnity as he continued, "The dossier handed down by the imperial government states that he had slain 261 demons. He has even slain three powerful demons at the Connate realm!"


    "He must have cooperated with other cultivators for such a feat, right?" The gray-robed elder said with a chuckle, "After all, he only knocked open the gate of immortality a few years ago. He''s probably no match for a demon at the Connate realm in a one-on-one fight."


    However, Commander Fang remarked, "I have been to the northern borders. It is where the demon scourge is held back, resulting in one of the most horrifying struggles between us humans and demons. Cultivators seldom live long in such a land of tragedy. Yet, he had survived three years and slain so many demons. To be honest, I do not even have the confidence fighting him in a one-on-one match."


    "What?" The gray-robed elder was taken aback. "Old Fang, you are at the Connate False Core realm."


    "So what?" Commander Fang shook his head. "For cultivators, the cultivation Dharmic methods are extremely important. For example, consider the sacred lands of Daoists or Buddhists, the heritage there is the zenith when it comes to cultivation. Just one or two of their juniors, despite being at the tenth or eleventh level of Qi Refinement, can easily crush us seniors from smaller sects."


    "Top heritage results in extremely robust foundations! Knocking open the gate of immortality is extremely difficult but once it happens, the condensed Quintessential Essence would be extremely pure. As for people like us from small sects who step into the Connate False Core realm, that bit of power of mine¡­has purity probably equivalent to juniors from those sacred lands of Daoists or Buddhists, even if they were at the tenth or eleventh Qi Refinement realm."


    The gray-robed elder nodded. "That I know. Disciples of the sacred Daoists and Buddhists lands are naturally impressive! However, is the second young master from Qin Manor also that powerful?"


    "He reached the ninth level of Qi Refinement at thirteen, yet he did not enter the neighboring cultivation sects and instead left home to roam the world. He clearly has great ambitions!" Commander Fang continued, "For him to be able to stay in the northern borders for three years, he probably is from one of the top sects, even if he isn''t from the three sacred lands of Daoism. Furthermore, he is not a greenhorn that lacks experience. He is someone who has truly carved a path out of a sea of blood, with more than two hundred confirmed demon kills. Furthermore, it was at the battlefront in the northern borders!"


    "Whoever meets him as an opponent should only quiver in fear." Commander Fang said with a sigh.


    The gray-robed elder nodded slightly and revealed a smile. "Then, I will request for his help. With that niece of mine and this second young master from the Qin family, the chance of success will be higher."


    "County Governor, I have to remind you." Commander Fang said solemnly, "Be it the three sacred lands of Daoism or the other top sects, they value their disciples greatly. As top heritage makes knocking open the gate of immortality very difficult, requiring a great deal of help from the masters and seniors in the sect, it is not easy for them to nurture a successor. In addition, the cultivator has to have the talent and grit before he can knock open the gate of immortality before twenty years of age. Therefore, every disciple is a treasure to them. When a young one is bullied; who knows, an old one might pop out next!"


    "I''m requesting for his help and not making him my enemy," said the gray-robed elder with a smile.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere at Qin Manor.


    It was a day in spring. The amount of sun was perfect.


    Qin Yun was lying on a chair, leisurely sunbathing. As the sunlight scattered across his body, it felt warm and comfortable.


    "Second Young Master, Second Young Master." A servant came to inform him. "There''s someone outside the manor, saying he is sending a letter on behalf of his master, Yu Bai."


    "Yu Bai? One of the four great scholars of Jiangnan, Yu Bai?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred. "Invite him in."


    Soon.


    "My master, Yu Bai instructed me to deliver this invitation letter to Young Master Qin." A teenager spoke with restraint as he politely took out a letter and handed it over. A servant from the manor took it and immediately passed it to Qin Yun. "Second Young Master."


    Qin Yun took the letter and gave it a look.


    "Great calligraphy!" Qin Yun praised. After unfurling the letter, he commented, "Cloud Restaurant?"


    "Tell your master that I''ll be there punctually," said Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Cloud Restaurant was one of the most famous restaurants in Grand Dominance County. It was eight stories tall which was an extremely rare sight.


    Many visitors would come just to climb to its peak to take in the scenery! Cloud Restaurant frequently received guests up to the sixth floor. The seventh floor was split into six private rooms. Although every one of them was luxurious, it was possible to enjoy a meal there by spending some money. However, the eighth floor was a huge private room by itself. Sitting there, one could see through the windows and see the entirety of Grand Dominance City. The scenery was impressive but the price was expensive. Just a meal would cost dozens of taels of silver!


    Today, one of the four great scholars of Jiangnan, Yu Bai had come here early. He was a little nervous.


    "Master, that immortal cultivator is here," a guard hurriedly informed him.


    "Where is he?" Yu Bai surveyed his surroundings.


    "There!" The guard pointed into the far distance.


    Young Master looked over and saw a dashing young nobleman leisurely riding a horse over. There were drooping willows shrouding him along the path so one could barely make out his figure.


    "You can see so clearly despite such a great distance?" Yu Bai looked as his guard.


    "I''m at the eighth level of Qi Refinement. I naturally have better eyesight better than most people." The guard said smugly.


    Yu Bai finished a pot of tea before Qin Yun finally reached the building. There were two reasons for that. Firstly, Grand Dominance City was indeed huge. It was a large city with hundreds of thousands of people in it after all and the Qin Manor was located a distance away from Cloud Restaurant. Secondly, the horse he rode was very slow.


    Soon, he reached the eighth floor.


    "Young Master Qin." Yu Bai had long been standing outside the private room waiting. He immediately cupped his hands and said with a bow.


    Qin Yun casually smiled and said, "Great Scholar Yu Bai. Grand Dominance''s scenery in March is renowned throughout the world. Since you are here in Grand Dominance, you should travel more. Just now, as I rode my horse here, the journey was filled with fluttering poplar and willows. It was like a piece of art. Although I''m from Grand Dominance County, the thing I like most over all these years is Grand Dominance in March."


    As he spoke, the duo entered the private room and took their seats.


    "Having come to Grand Dominance, I do find its scenery beautiful. The people are good looking too." Yu Bai said with a smile, "Today, Cloud Restaurant received a twenty-pound Lanyang Silver Whiskers Fish. It was caught early this morning in Lanyang river. It''s a rare treat which will be served in a while."


    "Twenty pounds? Lanyang Silver Whiskers Fish can only be found in our Lanyang river. I haven''t had that after being away for so many years. However, I have never eaten a twenty-pound Lanyang Silver Whiskers Fish either. The largest I''ve eaten was only twelve pounds," said Qin Yun. "It looks like I''m in for a treat."


    Delicacies were served one after another.


    Qin Yun ate mouthfuls after mouthfuls. Logically speaking, the number of dishes served was too much for two people but Qin Yun leisurely finished more than half of it without seeing any significant bloating of his stomach.


    "Yes, not bad." After drinking a mouthful of wine, Qin Yun glanced at Yu Bai and gave a faint smile. "Well, I had my fill today. It''s time for me to leave."


    With that said, he stood up.


    "Brother Qin Yun, please wait." Yu Bai hurriedly said.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sat back down. "Great Scholar Yu Bai, it seems like there is a motive behind your invitation."


    "I do have a request," said Yu Bai.


    "Go ahead and tell me," replied Qin Yun.


    Yu Bai said with a sigh, "I had let my youth slip by for forty years and led most of life recklessly. However, some of my old friends have recently died either of age or illnesses. Only then have I realized that I''m not too far from death."


    Qin Yun listened to his monolog. Most people would suffer a drop in vitality past the age of forty. It was also common for them to lose their lives from a serious illness. Living to fifty or sixty before passing away was considered normal. Those that could live to seventy were at an advanced age!


    "I have three children. My daughter has already been married away. Between my two sons, the elder one is studying and can barely be a county scholar. His literary talent is greatly inferior to mine. That''s pretty much all he will amount to in his life. My younger son is now nine years old. He''s at the four level of Qi Refinement." Yu Bai said, "I''m afraid that after my death, my two sons will not be able to protect the family estate. There''s no hope for my elder son but I wish to send my younger son to a cultivation sect. Even if he can''t knock open the gate of immortality, he will be able to protect the family estate with strength at the eighth or ninth level of Qi Refinement."


    "However, it is difficult to enter the gates of cultivation sects."


    Yu Bai looked at Qin Yun and said, "Brother Qin Yun, you are a cultivator and must know other cultivators. I wonder if it''s possible for you to help my son enter a cultivation sect?"


    Qin Yun sneered. "There are countless mortals seeking immortality. How could entering a cultivation sect be easy? Even the people in second or third-rate cultivation sects would number two or three! A sect with eight cultivators or so would be considered flourishing. Do you know why?"


    Yu Bai listened attentively.


    "It''s because as cultivators, we seek the path of unfettered longevity! Not the longevity of our disciples! It''s already irritating to deal with matters of the secular world. Some would rather avoid the secular world and cultivate in quiet and remote lands. How many of them are willing to take in disciples? Do you know how much effort is needed to teach a disciple? Do you know how much it delays one''s own cultivation?"


    "Furthermore, cultivation stresses the importance of Dharmic methods, money, companionship, and finally, land! Dharmic methods are what cultivation sects have! But for money¡­hmph. The expenditure of a cultivator is like mountains of gold and silver. How can a cultivation sect nurture so many disciples? Familial Mountain Sect that is closest to us has only three cultivators, including the sect leader." Qin Yun shook his head.


    Cultivators did not want to spend the effort because even after spending it, their disciples might still not be able to knock open the gate of immortality!


    Besides, massive amounts of wealth were needed.


    "If you want your younger son to enter a sect, there are two ways." Qin Yun said, "One, your son has to be extremely talented. For example, he has to be at the ninth level of Qi Refinement at twelve or thirteen years of age! Cultivation sects will be willing to take him in as a disciple without wanting anything in return. Two, you have to produce a hundred thousand taels of silver before the sect might consider taking him in as a disciple."


    Yu Bai said helplessly, "My family doesn''t run any businesses. It only earns its money from my literary talent. Even if I were to sell everything I have, it would only be twenty or thirty thousand taels of silver."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    Although Yu Bai was a great scholar that was known throughout the world, the means of earning money left one wanting. Renowned courtesans might be willing to give him money but how much could they give? By paying him three hundred to five hundred taels of silver, Yu Bai would have to produce a poem for her. If he dedicated poems so frequently, his poems would also turn cheap.


    Now, it was already pretty impressive that he had managed to save twenty to thirty thousand taels of silver past the age of forty. After all, one of the other four great scholars of Jiangnan, Great Scholar Zhou, had degenerated to the point of needing to survive on renowned courtesans.


    "It''s not bad having earned twenty to thirty thousand taels of silver. However, to seek immortal cultivation?" Qin Yun said, "Forget it."


    "Brother Qin, please help me. Tell me any condition you have. If I can do it, I''ll definitely try my best." Yu Bai said anxiously.


    "There is fairness in everything. Since you want me to help you, what can you do for me?" asked Qin Yun.

 16 Rising to Fame

    Chapter 16: Rising to Fame


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yu Bai looked at Qin Yun and said seriously, "Money alone is probably nothing to Brother Qin Yun. I only have some literary talent that is of any use! I heard that Lady Chen Shuang''s relationship with Brother Qin Yun is extraordinary. I am willing to do my best to help Lady Chen Shuang."


    "Can you make her famous throughout the world?" Qin Yun poured himself a cup of wine and drank it as he casually asked.


    "That I cannot do. However, I''m confident I can make her famous throughout the Jiang Prefecture," said Yu Bai.


    "Can you make her Courtesan Belle in the upcoming Courtesan Belle selection for Grand Dominance County?" asked Qin Yun again.


    Yu Bai shook his head. "There''s too little time. The selection is in a month''s time! To grow in fame, it needs a period a time for it to brew¡­ Furthermore, for the selection of Courtesan Belle, there are other processes at work behind the scenes. I can only guarantee that she will enter top ten this year, with a chance for top three. By next year, Lady Chen Shuang will be the most famous courtesan of Grand Dominance County!"


    "And I will use my literary talent and my reputation to spread her fame." Yu Bai continued, "Only then will her fame be lasting. Those that forcefully become Courtesan Belle by working the forces behind the scenes will only be resented by others."


    "How will you make Little Shuang famous throughout Jiang Prefecture? Tell me in detail," said Qin Yun.


    Yu Bai''s eyes lit up. There was hope!


    "I have been to brothels half my life. I understand how such things work very well." Yu Bai began explaining his plan.


    Qin Yun''s eyes gradually lit up as he listened to him.


    "It looks like you are really willing to go all out so that your youngest son can enter a cultivation sect," said Qin Yun with a laugh after hearing the entire plan.


    "When should I go all out if not now? Since I still have the strength, I should pave the way for them," said Yu Bai.


    "Alright, you help Little Shuang, and I''ll help you."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Prepare some brushes and ink."


    Yu Bai was delighted when he heard that.


    Soon, Qin Yun finished writing a letter.


    "Send your youngest son to Jiang Prefecture''s Southbright County''s East Mountain Vista, and seek an audience with Daoist Goldshine using my letter," said Qin Yun. "Remember, bring a thousand taels of silver as a gift to honor his new master. After seeing my letter, Daoist Goldshine will understand."


    "Yes, yes. Perfect." Yu Bai was overjoyed. "How can a thousand taels of silver be enough. It has to be five thousand."


    "That is up to you," said Qin Yun.


    East Mountain Vista was situated on a tiny island in the East Sea. It was the only cultivation sect in Southbright County and was very influential there.


    In fact, one could protect their family clan by becoming a paper tiger just by gaining entry to a cultivation sect.


    "Remember what you said,'' remarked Qin Yun.


    "I''ll be going to Swallow Phoenix Brothel tonight," Yu Bai''s spirit was soaring.


    Qin Yun nodded. He felt pity and a little guilty for Little Shuang to lead such a life. He had not appeared when she needed him the most, causing Little Shuang to end up in a brothel alone. He wanted to try his best to make up for it.


    ¡­


    That night, Yu Bai went to Swallow Phoenix Brothel. After watching Lady Chen Shuang''s sword dance, he turned agitated. With his friends as witnesses, he wrote ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' on the spot. Then, he requested to meet Lady Chen Shuang.


    The news immediately attracted the attention of many renowned courtesans from the brothels in Grand Dominance County.


    "What? Yu Bai went to meet Chen Shuang? After watching her sword dance, he wrote an ''Ode to Chen Shuang''?"


    "How is this Chen Shuang so lucky?"


    Many renowned courtesans turned envious and jealous.


    And at Dreamlike Pavilion, a brothel established by Dreamlike Pavilion Lady herself.


    "I have invited Yu Bai numerous times but he shied away from me but now, he has gone to meet that young lass?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was leaning on a bench. She had fair skin and all sorts of charms exuded from her eyebrows. Although she was thirty-five, she had a mature beauty thanks to the extension of her youth from Qi Refinement. People may have resented her winning of the title of Courtesan Belle two years ago but she was confident of entering the top five through her own strengths. However, Lady Scented Dress and Fairy Clear Autumn were a lot more famous than her. By defeating them, it appeared unfair.


    "Mistress, this is the ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' that the great scholar, Yu Bai wrote. It was just copied and sent over." the female attendant immediately handed it over to her politely.


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady casually took it and unfurled it.


    The text that replicated the ode was considered rather neat and trite but the ode itself made Dreamlike Pavilion Lady''s expression change drastically.


    "Why isn''t it writing about me? Why is it not me?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady clenched the roll of paper till her veins protruded from her slender hands. "Why is it that lass Chen Shuang?"


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was also proficient in the artistry skills of zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Although she could not produce any good pieces, she could tell that this was absolutely one of the best works from the great scholar Yu Bai.


    "This ode is imbued with true feelings and can only be written this well by having one''s heart truly touched." Dreamlike Pavilion Lady refused to believe it. "Could it be that the lass Chen Shuang has really stirred his heart?"


    ¡­


    News of the good ode quickly proliferated.


    Even with his status as one of the four great scholars of Jiangnan, the number of poems or pieces he had that could spread throughout the world was limited. A piece that was written naturally was rare. Forcefully writing one would typically be mediocre.


    "Second Young Master! I have been waiting outside Swallow Phoenix Brothel all this while. This is the ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' that the great scholar Yu Bai wrote. Swallow Phoenix Brothel had gotten people to make copies of it. Many people were buying it. I rushed back after buying one." A servant respectfully handed the roll of paper to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun took it over and unfurled it, allowing the warm yellow light from a lamp illuminate it.


    "A great ode and impressive literary flair."


    Qin Yun smiled.


    He could still clearly remember the plan Yu Bai had described to him. The ode¡­ was not written recently. Instead, it was from a three-year-old memory of Yu Bai''s unrequited love for a woman who eventually married someone else. Yu Bai had written the ode as he reminisced over the beauty. It was imbued with his natural emotions and truly one of the best works he had written in his life. However, after reading it thrice, he tore it apart. If news of it got out, it would not necessarily be a good thing for the woman that had married to someone else.


    For his son, Yu Bai was willing to go all out.


    He reused the ode and made some modifications, making it ''Ode to Chen Shuang''.


    And afraid that it would leak out, he did not even tell the contents of it to Qin Yun. Only when he wrote it at Swallow Phoenix Brothel did Qin Yun learn of it.


    "Not only is this a great ode, there will be three other good poems in the year ahead." Qin Yun looked forward to it. "They have all been prepared by Yu Bai."


    Not only was there going to be an ode, there was also going to be poems.


    And a ''story'' of the great scholar Yu Bai acting the role of a forlorn lover suffering unrequited love as he remained infatuated to Lady Chen Shuang. Just as the saying goes, the fallen flower pines for love but the heartless brook babbles on with unrequited love. As he suffered in the misery of unrequited love, the great scholar Yu Bai would produce three poems in the coming year to flesh out his one-sided pining for her.


    "In the future, when Yu Bai is mentioned, Little Shuang will definitely be mentioned as well. An ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' with three other poems would definitely become well-known throughout the Jiang Prefecture after a year." Qin Yun secretly sighed. "This great scholar is using his talented fame to imbue Little Shuang with fame."


    ¡­


    Day after day.


    With ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' spreading, Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s Lady Chen Shuang''s fame naturally grew. After all, the ode''s description depicted her perfectly. It spoke of her like a fairy or goddess that had descended to the mortal world. The amount needed to meet her quickly increased and in a few days, it had raised to fifty taels of silver! However, there were still many sons of the wealthy that fell over each other to win an audience with her.


    Even a young master of the county governor had sought her audience. It only served to make Lady Chen Shuang more sought after.


    "Little Shuang, what are you thinking about?" Auntie Xue said with a smile.


    Lady Chen Shuang was sitting in front of a blank canvas and writing with her mind elsewhere. She said softly, "Everything that happened in the past half month appears to be like a dream."


    "That''s right, it''s like a dream. First, the great scholar, Yu Bai began courting you and raised your fame using ''Ode to Chen Shuang''. Even the county governor''s young master and other noblemen have sought an audience with you," commented Auntie Xue.


    "Someone is helping me," said Lady Chen Shuang.


    Auntie Xue was taken aback, "Helping you?"


    "Yes."


    Lady Chen Shuang nodded, "Mister Yu had hinted to me that he was doing it under a request by somebody."


    Auntie Xue was alarmed. "Request by somebody? Who could have that capability? Could it be Qin Yun? Or someone in power from the county governor''s brethren?"


    Lady Chen Shuang did not speak further but instead continued writing.

 17 County Governor Visits

    Chapter 17: County Governor Visits


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was a day in spring with the right amount of sunshine.


    Qin Yun was lying on a chair, enjoying some tea.


    "Little Shuang''s fame has improved by leaps and bounds. She has already been selected to be one of the top ten contenders for the title of Courtesan Belle. Seven days later, she will appear with nine other renowned courtesans to contest in the final round." Qin Yun shook his head slightly. "However, there hasn''t been enough time for her fame to slowly spread. Her actual following probably cannot match Fairy Clear Autumn and Lady Scented Dress''s. It will be a little difficult for her to enter top three, much less clinching the title of Courtesan Belle."


    Seven days later was the true competition for Courtesan Belle.


    The ten renowned courtesans would compete by showcasing their talents, using all the means they had on a cruise ship that day. There would be a huge crowd watching and the top three would be selected on that day before the final Courtesan Belle was chosen. It was a grand event held in Grand Dominance County every year!


    "The Astral Patterned Steel that I obtained previously have all been refined. The materials I had with me can''t last more than a few days!" Qin Yun thought to himself. "It looks like I need to mass purchase some items. There are no breaks to cultivating my Intrinsic Flying Sword. When the day my Intrinsic Flying Sword attains completion, my strength would also greatly increase as well."


    "Oh?"


    There were very deep and heavy rumbles coming from the ground. Ordinary people would not have been able to sense it but Qin Yun had very sharp senses. His expression changed slightly. "There''s a lot of people heading here?"


    ******


    On the streets.


    "It''s the county governor."


    "Make way. Make way."


    "Stay a distance from them."


    Be it ordinary commoners or rich merchants, or even sons of noblemen, all of them quickly made way, afraid to incur any offense.


    In Grand Dominance County, the county governor was king! He was the absolute emperor of the land!


    A luxurious horse carriage was slowly proceeding forward, pulled by two noble steeds. There were a large group of personal guards dressed in armor surrounding the carriage, each looking extraordinarily mighty. Even if the old demon, Chu Yong dared to rush into the county governor''s personal guards, there would only be one outcome for him¡ªtorn to pieces!


    "Where is the county governor going?"


    "The only thing of significance around here is the Qin Manor. However, the county governor has never been there before."


    "Then it''s because you are unaware. The Qin Manor''s second young master, Qin Yun, is already one of the immortals. I believe the county governor is here for the Qin family''s second young master."


    "So what if he has knocked open the gate of immortality? The county governor protects millions of citizens. Typical immortal cultivators will not even dare act wantonly in front of him."


    There were all sorts of murmurs discussing the situation.


    ¡­


    Qin Manor''s entrance.


    Qin Liehu, his wife, Changlan, the first young master, Qin An and second young master, Qin Yun were already waiting.


    Changlan asked curiously, "Liehu, it''s been years since we moved to Grand Dominance City but the county governor has never visited. Even if he wants to meet you, he would directly send someone to summon you. Why would he come personally?"


    "He''s probably not here to see me but here for our son." Qin Liehu said in hushed tones.


    "He''s here to see Yun''er?" Changlan hurriedly said, "Yun''er just came back so why is he meeting him?"


    Instead, Qin Liehu said, "How would I know? However, Yun''er is twenty-one this year. It has only been a few years since he knocked open the gate of immortality. Logically speaking, a county governor would not think so highly of Yun''er. But since he''s coming, he probably has a request. Yun''er, for a person of his status to request something of you, it is definitely not something simple. You should not easily agree to it. Everything must be handled very seriously and carefully."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Liehu nodded slightly.


    To him, his son''s safety was obviously of utmost importance.


    As for Qin Yun, he was looking far into the distance. He could tell at a glance that the luxurious horse carriage was not ordinary. There was a mysterious luster inside the box carriage that even a powerful shot from a crossbow would fail to penetrate it. Traveling beside the carriage were five people. Out of the five, there were elderly men and women. They were on horseback and had extraordinary dispositions. The personal guards that surrounded the carriage numbered more than a hundred. Every one of these personal guards had a converged radiance to them. Every action they made seemed to be particularly mighty.


    "County Governor Manor, the personal guard army." Qin Yun thought to himself. "It''s said that half the experts in all of Grand Dominance County are in County Governor Manor! Although it might seem a little exaggerated, it makes sense too. Even if it''s me, I can only run when facing the onslaught of the personal guard army."


    "Trot! Trot! Trot!"


    The horse carriage came to a halt.


    A middle-aged man dismounted from the carriage first. He then carefully helped an elder down the carriage.


    "Your subordinate, Qin Liehu greets Lord County Governor." Qin Liehu immediately bowed as his wife and Qin An behind him followed. Qin Yun, who was standing towards the back, similarly bowed.


    Although there were more than a hundred people around, there was complete silence.


    The elder was rather aged. His hair was white as he looked at Qin Liehu through turbid eyes. He said with a smile, "There''s no need for formalities. I came today to Qin Manor to visit the great hero of our Grand Dominance County." As he spoke, he cast his eyes at Qin Yun and smiled.


    "Great hero?" Qin Liehu was a little perplexed. Although his son was a cultivator, that did not mean that he was a great hero, right?


    "Lord County Governor, don''t just stand here. Please enter." Qin Liehu did not have the luxury of time to think it through as he immediately invited his superior in.


    The entire group of people entered the manor and came to the main hall.


    The elder, woman and four other experts stayed on guard outside the hall. The county governor brought only two people in and as such, Qin Liehu only brought Qin Yun in.


    In the main hall.


    The county governor naturally sat in the seat of honor while Qin Liehu and Qin Yun sat to one side, with the other two middle-aged men sitting across them.


    "Let me do the introductions." The county governor pointed to a man in blue-robes that sat closest to him. "This is Brother Fang, who has temporarily taken the difficult task of being commander of my personal guards."


    "Commander Fang."


    Qin Liehu and Qin Yun immediately cupped their hands as a greeting.


    Qin Liehu immediately said, "Yun''er, Commander Fang is our number one expert of Grand Dominance County. He is a powerful man at the Connate False Core realm."


    "In front of our young friend, Qin Yun, I''m not considered anything powerful." The blue-robed man said with a chuckle.


    "Before I returned to Grand Dominance, I heard of two Connate False Core realm seniors that reside in Grand Dominance County. One of them is Commander Fang and the other is Master Meixia," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Commander Fang holds down the fort for Grand Dominance, allowing peace to be maintained. I''m very impressed with him."


    There were only two experts at the Connate False Core realm in Grand Dominance County. One of them went under the patronage of the imperial government while the other became commander of the county governor''s personal guard army! Throughout the world, almost every county governor''s personal guard army was helmed by a commander whose cultivation level was at the Connate False Core realm. It was also an indication of how highly the imperial government valued county governors.


    After all, the imperial government would also be worried that the county governor that they assigned would be executed by demons.


    Therefore, among the military powers a county governor had, the county army was naturally ranked first. The army was ten thousand soldiers strong or more. They were strongmen with powerful steeds, equipped with lots of powerful weapons. Ranked second was the personal guard army that protected the county governor at all times. Although the personal guard army numbered only six hundred, they were composed of absolute elites. The commander that led them would be helmed by someone at the Connate False Core realm. Ranked third were the constables from Six Fans Gate who maintained the safety of the hundreds of thousands of people in the city.


    "You are giving me too much praise." Commander Fang said with a light chuckle. "The lot of us can''t compare with you. You are the one that really ensured the safety of countless lives."


    "There''s no need to remain humble between the both of you." The county governor pointed to the middle-aged man sitting beside Commander Fang. "That is my youngest son, Wen Chong."


    Both sides exchanged pleasantries.


    Wen Chong immediately said, "I have always wanted to meet Brother Qin Yun after knowing of his feats. I finally had the pleasure today. Brother Qin Yun, can you explain what the scale of the demon scourge is like in the northern borders? I heard it''s extremely horrible?"


    "Northern borders?" Qin Liehu was alarmed.


    "Why? Does Constable Qin not know?" asked the county governor with a laugh.


    Qin Liehu was perplexed as he turned to look at his son.


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    He had not wanted to worry his parents so he had never mentioned it.


    When Wen Chong saw this, he immediately said, "It looks like I''ve blabbered too much."


    "It''s something that I have to tell my parents eventually." Qin Yun shook his head and said, "Back when I roamed the world, I also went to the northernmost lands. I wanted to see what the legendary northern borders that battled the demon scourge were like. However, when I saw the tragic things done by the demon scourge, I joined the army in a fit of anger. As such, I spent three years there."


    "Three years?" Qin Liehu was alarmed. "Yun''er, you served in the northern borders for three years?"


    "That is an extremely terrible place. There are massive numbers of losses and injuries every day. Demons also die in succession there." The county governor continued, "It''s very impressive for him to serve for three years. Impressive."


    Sitting to his side, Commander Fang added, "According to the records as written in the dossier handed down by the imperial government, our young friend Qin Yun has no lack of confirmed demon kills."


    "Military operations." Qin Yun shook his head. "They are all about cooperation. It was not done solely on my own."


    "To be able to kill so many and survive demands skill." Commander Fang said.


    Qin Yun was taken aback as he shook his head slightly. "Indeed, surviving was not easy."


    His good friends.


    Be it because they were there to train themselves or to render meritorious services, or because of a fit of anger, cultivators came from everywhere to the northern borders to withstand the demon scourge.


    In three years, more than half died in battle! There were people who were severely injured. Those who truly left safely numbered about twenty to thirty percent. Qin Yun was the only one that stayed the longest. He had stayed for three years before leaving because of a promise!


    Memories of past scenes began to flood through his mind as they flashed across his eyes.


    Those smiling faces.


    The insanity as their lives was on the line.


    Those figures that sang loudly with emotion despite facing death.


    "Cultivators¡ªcultivation can be done in seclusion, in the secular world, and also in the military." Qin Yun made a statement.


    "Haha, Young Master Qin is right. One can cultivate anywhere. I came here today for two reasons. One, I wanted to see a great hero like Young Master Qin. Two, I have something I need Young Master Qin''s help with," said the county governor.


    "Here it comes." Qin Liehu''s heart tightened.


    However, Qin Yun remained calm. "County Governor, please speak."


    The county governor said with a faint smile, "Deep in Grand Dominance county''s tallest mountain, Green Tooth Mountain, there is a spirit fruit. It''s slightly more than a month before the spirit fruit ripens. I want to request Young Master Qin to help me obtain the fruit when it ripens. Of course, it will not only be you. There will be two other companions. And of course, I will not treat Young Master Qin shabbily."


    Sitting by the side, Wen Chong took out a thick stack of banknotes. He placed it on a tea table beside Qin Yun. When Qin Yun took a glance at it, he noticed that the topmost note denominated a thousand taels of silver.


    "There is a total of a hundred thousand taels of silver here," said Wen Chong with a smile.


    Qin Liehu drew in a cold gasp.


    A hundred thousand taels of silver.

 18 Spirit Frui

    Chapter 18: Spirit Fruit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A hundred thousand taels of silver was an obscene amount of money. Even the Liu family, which was one of the top three family clans in Grand Dominance County, had a wealth that totaled two to three hundred thousand taels of silver! After all, no matter how extensive the Liu family''s business was, most of the money they earned had to be handed to the county governor! Furthermore, the county governor had a lot of expenditures; hence, offering a hundred thousand taels of silver was not an easy task either. However, he had still offered it regardless of how much he felt the pinch.


    "To offer a hundred thousand taels of silver, this expedition must be extremely dangerous." Qin Liehu immediately worried for his son''s safety.


    However, Qin Yun remained very calm. "How generous of you to offer a hundred thousand taels of silver." He said with a smile, "Might I ask what spirit fruit it is that I''m supposed to retrieve?"


    The county governor hesitated for a moment before looking at Qin Liehu, "Constable Qin, please do not spread this."


    "Of course, of course." Qin Liehu said immediately.


    "A thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit," said the county governor in hushed tones.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly when he heard that.


    Ice Jade Fruit trees resembled ice sculptures. They would bear fruit every century but there would only be one fruit! Usually, the fruit would be blue in color but would only turn red when it ripened. Furthermore, it only maintained its ripened state for two hours. After two hours, the original fruit tree would wither, causing the fruit to fall to the ground. Upon touching the soil, the fruit would melt, leaving behind a seed.


    The seed would germinate once again and after a hundred years, the tree would bear fruit once again. If the fruit was not eaten, it would fall to the ground, melting and allow the seed to germinate once again. It would then be another century¡­


    As one generation followed another, and only after a thousand years would the fruit that was born be qualified to be called a thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. It would suffuse a purple luster when it ripened and would be a rare treasure of extremely miraculous nature.


    It was best used for the refinement of pills. Of course, it could be consumed directly. Eating one thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit could rejuvenate one''s body! If one were in their thirties or forties, with no hope of knocking open the gate of immortality, eating a thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit would rejuvenate the body such that there would be a chance of knocking open the gate of immortality again! If it were a person highly advanced in age, they would undergo a rejuvenation after eating one, allowing them to extend their lives for another two decades.


    Longevity!


    Many people pursued it. The closer they were to death, the more they craved to carry on living. A spirit fruit that could extend one''s life by twenty years was sufficient to make many go crazy for it.


    Material goods had a price but longevity was priceless!


    "It''s no wonder the county governor is willing to spend a hundred thousand taels of silver." Qin Yun thought to himself before he said, "Green Tooth Mountain is the tallest mountain in Grand Dominance County, where many demons lurk. It would be extremely difficult to retrieve the spirit fruit."


    "There will be two other companions with you. Both of them are extraordinary as well." The county governor said, "One of them is a Grand Dominance County local. He has a demon that listens to orders. In terms of strength, that demon is stronger than the old demon Chu Yong. As for the other one, she is my niece. In terms of strength, she''s probably not inferior to you, Young Master Qin."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    The county governor was a high official. As such, the imperial government would deliver a dossier regarding Qin Yun to him.


    Despite seeing his dossier, the county governor actually dared to claim that she was not inferior to him?


    "Niece? Has she stepped into the Connate realm?" asked Qin Yun.


    "No." The county governor said with a smile. "The trio that will embark on this expedition is not at the Connate realm. It''s because once Connate experts were to expose their aura, the demons would realize that Connate experts were coming to snatch the treasure. They would definitely fear that the spirit fruit cannot be defended! With the temperament of demons, once they realize that the spirit fruit cannot be defended, they might be willing to destroy it than leave it to the intruders."


    "As for all of you in the Postnatal realm, the demons would end up underestimating you. I need you to use that folly of the demons to snatch the spirit fruit in one fell swoop," said the county governor.


    Qin Yun was curious.


    The county governor had so much confidence in a woman that had yet to enter the Connate realm, so much as to claim that she was comparable in strength to him? From the looks of it, she was definitely from a top sect! It was even possible that she was a disciple of a sacred Daoist or Buddhist land.


    "There are too many demons in Green Tooth Mountain. There will be many exigencies for us to infiltrate deep into the demons'' lair. A hundred thousand taels of silver?" Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    He really did not think much of it!


    "What conditions do you have? Please speak your mind," said the county governor.


    "Since you are a high official of our Grand Dominance County, I will not demand too much. I do not need the banknotes. All I need is Frostmuster Spirit Liquid." Qin Yun added, "Ten pounds of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid."


    Qin Yun was in urgent need of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid.


    The reason being that the cultivation of his Intrinsic Flying Sword was still using rather common materials. He was using large quantities of materials to make up for it, which resulted in a slow nurturing process. If he had ten pounds of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, it was possible that he would complete his Intrinsic Flying Sword within a month! He had few options. Frostmuster Spirit Liquid was seldom used by typical cultivators and it was very rare. Only top sects of powerful factions had a chance of coming into contact with it.


    Qin Yun was an itinerant cultivator after all. He had no chance of gathering the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid he required.


    The county governor said with a slight frown, "Frostmuster Spirit Liquid is rather difficult to obtain. It can only be found deep at the bottom of the north sea. Ten pounds of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid isn''t expensive and is worth less than a hundred thousand taels of silver. However, gathering it would be problematic. It should take a month and at most two months."


    Qin Yun revealed a delighted look. "That''s sufficient. It will be more than a month before we set off to retrieve the spirit fruit. You can give me a portion of the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid before we set off for Green Tooth Mountain."


    "I''ll give you as much as I managed to gather when the time comes," said the county governor. "Then, have we come to an agreement?"


    "Yes, I agree to the expedition." Qin Yun nodded.


    He was in a rather good mood.


    Just like how the Astral Patterned Steel shortened the mastering of his Intrinsic Flying Sword, allowing his foundation to turn more robust, the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid was best suited for his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Similarly, his foundation would be better and the time to finish cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword would be shortened by a month.


    "This county governor is indeed from South Hill''s Wen family." Qin Yun thought to himself. "It''s a large family clan that had been conferred the title of Duke after all. His niece probably comes from a top cultivation sect or from one of the sacred lands of Daoism or Buddhism! For him to be able to obtain Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, it also shows how extraordinary his social connections are."


    "Haha¡­" The county governor immediately laughed loudly when he heard Qin Yun''s agreement. "Young Master Qin is indeed forthright."


    Qin Liehu felt somewhat helpless. He had signaled Qin Yun with his eyes but his son had still agreed to the request.


    "Brother Qin Yun, my father was truly worried you would disagree with his proposition." Wen Chong, who was sitting by the side, said with a laugh. "By the way, I heard that Brother Qin Yun has deep ties with Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s Lady Chen Shuang?"


    "Chen Shuang and I are childhood friends. We grew up together." Qin Yun answered simply.


    The county governor asked, "Are you referring to Lady Chen Shuang as described in ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' by the great scholar, Yu Bai?"


    "Yes, Father. It''s that Lady Chen Shuang." Wen Chong said with a smile, "It''s my first meeting with Brother Qin Yun today and I happen to have a gift for you."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    "The selection of Courtesan Belle of our Grand Dominance County will be held seven days later. Shall I give the title of Courtesan Belle to Brother Qin Yun''s sister?" Wen Chong said with a loud laugh.


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    When the county governor heard that, he immediately nodded in approval. "Yes, Wen Chong. It''s merely a Courtesan Belle. Proceed with it."


    Merely a Courtesan Belle?


    From the way the county governor spoke of it, it was nothing at all.


    "I''ll be on my way. It will be fast. An hour would do." Wen Chong said as he strode out the door.


    As a cultivator, Qin Yun knew from his travels that a Courtesan Belle of a county¡­ was truly just a form of entertainment to the people truly in power.


    Although the county governor had taken the initiative to help him, it was because he needed him to retrieve the spirit fruit from Green Tooth Mountain. That was something that risked his life! The county governor was naturally afraid that he would not put in his best.


    "Thank you, County Governor." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "It''s nothing." The county governor revealed a smile. He wanted Qin Yun to remember this favor of his.


    ¡­


    Dreamlike Pavilion.


    Inside a bedroom, an enticing body was lying in a man''s embrace.


    "I really never expected that the Courtesan Belle selection this year would suddenly have a Chen Shuang to tip the scales." Dreamlike Pavilion Lady lamented. "Seven days later at the cruise ship, if I do not enter the top three, how will I be able to face everyone else. I might as well jump into Flower Solarium river."


    "Don''t worry, Dreamlike. I''m not confident of you winning Courtesan Belle but I already guaranteed you previously that you will definitely enter the top three." The man said with a smile as he caressed Dreamlike Pavilion Lady''s skin that was as smooth as jade.


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady looked up, "Minister Wang, don''t get my hopes up."


    The man said with a smile, "How can I bear hurting you?"


    For some reason, although Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was rather old, her looks and skin resembled that of a young girl''s. Such a level of seduction prevented him from shaking his infatuation for her.


    "Master, Master. The county governor is summoning you!" A hurried shout sounded from outside.


    "The county governor?" The man jolted in shock.


    "The county governor wants to meet you? Minister Wang, make haste then." Dreamlike Pavilion Lady urged him.


    "I''ll be leaving."


    With that, Wang Song hurriedly dressed up and left the room.


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady got up and sat in front of her dressing table wrapped in a blanket. As she looked at her reflection in a bronze mirror, she chuckled. "Little lass, you want to fight me? You are still too young!"


    ¡­


    Within an hour, two men and a woman came to Qin Manor under orders from the county governor.


    "Greetings, County Governor."


    The three bowed politely. Following that, they stood obediently by the side with hearts filled with questions.


    As for Wen Chong, he said with a smile. "Brother Qin Yun, how do you think a Courtesan Belle selection is done? Although it''s a contest of looks, talent, and charm¡­ the final Courtesan Belle is selected by a panel made of a hundred members. These hundred people are famous in Grand Dominance County. Some hail from wealthy large clans and there are obviously famous cultured and refined scholars. Also, there will be distinguished guests that frequently patronage brothels. They make up the Courtesan Belle panel and many of them have distinguished statuses. It appears very fair on the surface."


    "But in fact, these cultured and refined scholars and other famous people can be influenced behind the scenes. Some of the wealthy merchants and distinguished personnel can be influenced as well."


    "These three."


    Wen Chong introduced, "Madam Jade runs five brothels in Grand Dominance County. Swallow Phoenix Brothel is also under her charge. Many refined and cultured scholars owe their living to Madam Jade."


    The woman gave Qin Yun a faint smile.


    "Vice Minister Wang is deputy president of Grand Dominance County''s Merchant Association. President Hong usually abstains from doing any administration, so most of the matters of the Merchant Association is administered by Vice Minister Wang. Many of the wealthy businessmen and distinguished people from the Courtesan Belle panel listens to Vice Minister Wang," said Wen Chong.


    Vice Minister Wang immediately gave an obsequious smile at Qin Yun.


    What a joke.


    Didn''t you see the county governor and Commander Fang here? Moreover, the county governor''s son, Wen Chong was delivering the introductions himself? He was only a merchant. His official post was also bought so how could he dare slight Qin Yun?


    "As for this man, he is Young Master Hong." Wen Chong said with a smile. "The Hong family is the top family clan in Grand Dominance County. It is extremely influential. Many people from the Courtesan Belle panel would not dare disobey the Hong family''s instructions."


    "Greetings, Young Master Qin Yun. I had long heard of Young Master Qin Yun''s fury over a beauty, making that Liu Qi slam his face to the ground." Young Master Hong said with a chuckle.


    "These three added together can influence more than half the members of the Courtesan Belle panel." Wen Chong said with a smile. "If the three of them simultaneously decide on anyone to be the Courtesan Belle, then that person will definitely be Courtesan Belle. For this year''s Courtesan Belle¡­ my father thinks highly of Lady Chen Shuang. Does anyone have an opinion?"


    Madam Jade hurriedly said, "Lady Chen Shuang is from my Swallow Phoenix Brothel. I had long thought highly of her. Now that her reputation has increased greatly, I too think that she should win this year''s title of Courtesan Belle."


    Young Master Hong nodded as well. "Lady Chen Shuang''s sword dance and lute performance are both impeccable. Who else but her can be Courtesan Belle?"


    "Yes, yes, yes." Vice Minister Wang, who stood beside them, hurriedly added. "Even the great scholar Yu Bai has written ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' for her. She naturally deserves the title of Courtesan Belle. If she doesn''t become Courtesan Belle, I, Wang Song, will be the first to disagree."


    "Haha¡­"


    Wen Chong laughed. "Brother Qin Yun, look. The matter is settled! Lady Chen Shuang shall be this year''s Courtesan Belle."


    Qin Yun had watched this play out in front of his very eyes.


    No matter how much the renowned courtesans fought each other seven days later, the title of Courtesan Belle was already determined today!

 19 Courtesan Belle

    Chapter 19: Courtesan Belle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Madam Jade, Vice Minister Wang, and Young Master Hong quickly left Qin Manor.


    "What sort of influence does that Young Master Qin have? Isn''t he just an immortal cultivator that had just knocked open the gate of immortality? Why would the county governor treat him with so much respect?" Vice Minister Wang asked in hushed tones.


    "No matter what influence he has, he is not someone we can offend," replied Madam Jade.


    Young Master Hong remarked, "Don''t overthink things. Since the county governor''s intentions are clear, we just need to follow his wishes."


    "That is only natural."


    Vice Minister Wang and Madam Jade nodded in response.


    The county governor could crush them to death easily so how could they dare feign compliance while acting in opposition?


    ¡­


    Dreamlike Pavilion.


    "Minister Wang, you are back?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady went forward to receive him and served him a cup of tea. "Have some tea first to quench your thirst."


    Vice Minister Wang slumped into his seat and gulped it down before saying, "Dreamlike, you can forget about entering the top three for this coming Courtesan Belle selection!"


    "Minister Wang, you¡­" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady hurriedly said, "Wasn''t it already agreed upon previously?"


    "Lady Scented Dress and Lady Clear Autumn are definitely entering the top three or the selection will be ridiculed as being unfair." Vice Minister Wang said which Dreamlike Pavilion Lady nodded in agreement. "But what about the other spot?"


    Vice Minister Wang said, "The other spot is left to Lady Chen Shuang!"


    "What?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady turned anxious. "She''s only a young girl, sought after by Yu Bai. At most, there was an ode written for her?"


    "Her fame is a lot greater than yours at present." Vice Minister Wang continued, "In a few months, Lady Scented Dress and Lady Clear Autumn might not even be able to beat her. After all, that ode was written too, too well."


    "So what if her fame is greater than mine? Isn''t it still chosen by the Courtesan Belle panel? With you helping me, wouldn''t I be able to enter the top three?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady asked.


    "I''m helping you but there are others helping her," replied Vice Minister Wang.


    "Who?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady asked.


    "Qin Manor''s second young master, Qin Yun," said Vice Minister Wang.


    "I heard that he''s an immortal cultivator but how is he able to influence the Courtesan Belle selection?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady pursued the matter.


    "He is a distinguished guest of the county governor, who has all intentions to befriend him. It has already been decided that this year''s Courtesan Belle will be Lady Chen Shuang." Vice Minister Wang said, "Don''t make a fuss if you want to live."


    "County governor?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady''s face turned pale.


    "Alright, I came only to warn you, so that you would be mentally prepared. I don''t want you to lose your calm during the Courtesan Belle selection." Vice Minister Wang said with a smile. "I might have failed you this time but Dreamlike, I will make it up to you in the future. I still have other matters to tend to. I''ll be leaving for now."


    With that said, he got up and left.


    "I''ll walk you out." Dreamlike Pavilion Lady still got up and walked him out the door.


    Following that, she returned alone to her room with a stagger.


    "It''s unfair. It''s unfair¡­" Murmurs could be heard from inside Dreamlike Pavilion Lady''s room. She had forgotten that Chen Shuang''s fame was already close to Fairy Clear Autumn and Lady Scented Dress''s. As for her, her fame was never Chen Shuang''s match, to begin with. She was also aging and had tried all means to forcefully win the title of Courtesan Belle. Many people had resented the unfairness of it behind her back.


    "Second young master of the Qin Manor, Qin Yun?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady knew that regardless of anything, she could only endure it in silence.


    ¡­


    Days passed one after another.


    The day of the Courtesan Belle selection approached.


    With the county governor''s son, Wen Chong''s promotion, the ''Ode to Chen Shuang'' spread even faster. It would be common to hear people reciting it alongside teahouses and wine shops. As people listened to the ''Chen Shuang'' as described in the ode, they imagined of a fairy-like figure that could make one of the four great scholars of Jiangnan, Yu Bai fall completely head over heels for. It also made Lady Chen Shuang''s fame rise greatly, reaching the point of fame that Lady Scented Dress and Fairy Clear Autumn enjoyed.


    Finally, on the day of the Courtesan Belle selection.


    The banks of Flower Solarium river were already filled with the masses. The restaurants that lined the river banks, especially the second floor, had been reserved by many of the rich.


    "Brother Qin Yun, please enter." The second floor of one of the restaurants had been completely reserved. There were only three guests in it¡ªthe county governor''s son, Young Master Hong and Qin Yun.


    The trio took their seats with female attendants serving them.


    Beyond the buildings railings, they could easily see the huge cruise ship situated beside them. The renowned courtesans inside the cruise ship had yet to appear and all that could be seen were vague figures.


    "Every year''s Courtesan Belle selection is when there is the most bustle." Young Master Hong said with a smile, "Countless citizens will rush here to chance a glimpse of the renowned courtesans'' beauty."


    "Common citizens cannot afford the money needed to visit a brothel so it''s natural that they will not miss the Courtesan Belle selection." added Wen Chong.


    Qin Yun looked at the huge throngs of youths by the riverbank below him. Many of them were cheering.


    "Fairy Clear Autumn."


    "Lady Scented Dress."


    "Lady Chen Shuang."


    There were cheers all around.


    Qin Yun was rather envious of the joy and excitement that these ordinary people had. As a cultivator that roamed the world, he had seen too many instances of the repulsiveness of the human heart. He had also seen too much death in the northern borders. Compared to the renowned courtesans, the excitement the citizens had was better at infecting him.


    "With so many citizens here, are there precautionary measures set up in the vicinity?" Qin Yun asked. "If a demon were to attack, there will be a lot of death and injury."


    "Don''t worry. The Courtesan Belle selection is a grand event of Grand Dominance. We naturally did our best at employing precautionary measures. Father has diverted a large amount of manpower here." Wen Chong said, "Even the two ends of the Flower Solarium river has been barricaded to prevent demons of the water breed to launch an amphibious assault. As for everything else? If the demons really want to cause harm, it''s impossible to prevent it. Many of them have been hiding in the city for years so it''s impossible to defend against them. However, as long as they dare come, not one of them can escape. They will definitely meet their doom."


    "Yes, there''s so much manpower with lots of powerful weapons prepared. As long as the demons appear, they will die." Young Master Hong added with a laugh. "Demons also fear death. If they know that it''s suicidal, they will not send themselves to their deaths."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    In the entire Grand Dominance County, the county city and the provincial city were relatively much safer because there was a powerful military presence! The demons could only hide in the shadows.


    As for outside the city? The imperial government could only establish an on-site inspection office. However, the demons remained rampant. The days outside the city were a lot tougher. Before the age of eight, Qin Yun had grown up in a village where he had suffered immensely.


    "Roar¡ª"


    The cheers outside gradually reached a crescendo as if it were a roar from a tidal wave.


    Countless citizens were cheering with extreme excitement.


    One renowned courtesan after another walked out of the cruise ship that was floating over the Flower Solarium river. The large cruise ship had a total of three decks. The courtesans came to the top deck of the ship, where it was completely open, allowing the citizens by the riverbanks to see everything clearly.


    "Here they come," said Young Master Hong with a laugh.


    The ten renowned courtesans were excellent, be it their composure or charm. Each one of them was smiling sweetly and looking radiant. To the common citizens, all of them were fairies! Especially the youths and young adults, they were cheering with blushed faces.


    Qin Yun was situated on the second floor of a restaurant where he could see every facial expression the ten renowned courtesans were making on the cruise ship. "It''s no wonder so many wealthy men are willing to spend lavishly on them. Even some younger ones are willing to bankrupt themselves for renowned courtesans."


    Some youths would court renowned courtesans to the point of going bankrupt.


    When they had money, the brothels would warmly welcome them. When they had no money, the brothels would directly chase them out.


    ¡­


    In an ordinary yard in a residential area situated close to the Flower Solarium river.


    Five men were gathered where they could hear the tumultuous cheers coming from the Flower Solarium river''s riverbank.


    "The renowned courtesans have appeared." A fatty said with a smile. "Our three brothers, it''s about time you go."


    "Remember, the moment when the Courtesan Belle is chosen is when the humans would be most excited. It''s the moment when you should take action." Another youth with cunning-looking facial features instructed, "As for that Courtesan Belle, as well as the other renowned courtesans, kill them all. After killing them, feel free to kill those humans. Kill as many as you can."


    "Yes."


    "We have long been waiting for this."


    The three men''s eyes were burning with passion.


    "Then, go." The cunning-looking youth waved his hand. "Remember, take action when the Courtesan Belle is announced."


    The three men nodded, turned and left the residential area.


    As the fatty watched the trio leave, he exclaimed, "Pangolin, where did these three idiots come from? The day of the Courtesan Belle selection is when the humans gather their manpower to guard the surroundings. They have many powerful weapons lying in wait. If our leaders were to show their faces, they will only meet with doom. Aren''t those three idiots afraid of death? Why do they dare to launch an assault?"


    "Those three? They are demonic slaves." The cunning-looking youth said with a scoff. "They are some lesser demons that had infuriated the water god. After they were transformed into demonic slaves by the water god, they are no longer afraid of death. The water god''s commands would be obediently followed by them. The water god had sent them here to unleash a massacre on the humans during the Courtesan Belle selection¡­ Firstly, it''s because the leader Chu Yong was killed. The infuriated water god wants the people of Grand Dominance County to remember how powerful the water god is. Secondly, the water god had just finished his experiment. He wants to use this opportunity to see how powerful demonic slaves are when they are willing to fight to the death."


    Fatty was alarmed as he hurriedly asked, "They aren''t afraid of death? Why are they unafraid of death? Do those lesser demons that were punished still have their memories after being transformed into demonic slaves?"


    The cunning-looking youth said in hushed tones, "No."


    "If they can''t remember the past, isn''t it equivalent to being dead?" Fatty''s heart palpitated. As a demon, he naturally was mortally afraid of death.


    "That is the punishment of infuriating the water god." The cunning-looking youth grew apprehensive as well. A large majority of the demons in the whole of Grand Dominance County was subordinate to the water god because the water god was too terrifying.


    "Don''t forget what''s important." The cunning-looking youth hurriedly said, "Remember to arrange your human subordinates to watch the situation! See how powerful the three demonic slaves are when they go all out. Remember to record it. I still need to report it to the water god."


    "Rest assured. I have already arranged for several subordinates to do so." said the fatty hurriedly.


    Demons were terrifying so there were naturally many humans that obediently listened to demons either out of fear or coercion.


    "In a while, there will be a huge massacre." The cunning-looking youth chuckled. "I''ll make a move first." He lunged his hands toward the ground and instantly tunneled into the soil as he departed by boring through the ground.


    Fatty brought over two lumps of soil and covered their tracks before leaving the residential area. He too swiftly left the area.

 20 Crossing the Water God

    Chapter 20: Crossing the Water God


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Grand Dominance City had a population that numbered in hundreds of thousands. The turnout for the Courtesan Belle selection numbered tens of thousands. People filled the banks of the Flower Solarium river from one end in the south to the other end in the north.


    The cruise liner gradually traveled from south to north and turned around when it reached the north. On its return, it clung to the other bank as it headed south, allowing both sides of the river banks to clearly see the renowned courtesans on the cruise liner. When the cruise liner proceeded to a certain point in its voyage, the people raised their heads in excitement to look carefully at the ten fairy-like figures at the cruise liner''s top deck.


    The renowned courtesans were at times dancing and at other times playing the zither¡­


    When the cruise liner approached where Qin Yun was, it was precisely when Lady Chen Shuang began her sword dance. It was unknown if it was a coincidence or a deliberate arrangement.


    "Lady Chen Shuang''s sword dance is akin to fairies from heaven descending to the mortal world. The thrust of her sword leaves the world ashen and cold." Someone in the crowd by the riverbank marveled. Many of them were dazzled and mesmerized by her dance.


    "Compared to her sword dance," said Wen Chong wistfully in the restaurant. "I prefer Lady Chen Shuang''s lute performance. In the past, I enjoyed Fairy Clear Autumn''s flute performance, finding it distant and calm, as if I could distance myself away from the secular world but after listening to Lady Chen Shuang''s lute, I realize that it''s because the other courtesans are not that good at the lute. Lady Chen Shuang''s lute performance¡­seems to describe the love and strife in a couple''s relationship. There is a longing for each other, as they can''t severe ties with one another nor turn to reason. The most chaotic thing is one''s heart. It also resembles the impossible-to-forget smile as one looks back. No matter how steel-hearted one is, it will simply melt. Fairy Clear Autumn''s flute performance is to distance herself from the secular world while Lady Chen Shuang''s lute performance is to make people lose themselves in the secular world, so much as to resist waking up."


    Wen Chong looked at Qin Yun and said, "Brother Qin Yun, I''m not currying favor. It is something I truly believe in. I really love it. In the past few days, I have been paying a visit to watch Lady Chen Shuang''s performance so that she can play a tune for me."


    "Brother Wen, why don''t I share the same feelings?" Young Master Hong was puzzled. "I only think that Fairy Clear Autumn''s flute performance is more attractive."


    "That''s because you are still young. At my age, you will prefer Lady Chen Shuang''s playing of the lute," said Wen Chong.


    "I like Lady Chen Shuang as well. However, I prefer her sword dance. That valiant air to her that is different from ordinary females, as well as that frailty really makes my heart ache for her," said Young Master Hong.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "In the past, she wasn''t famous so few people were aware of her. So it''s natural that the people who liked her were few in number. Now that her fame has reached afar, more people know of her so there are a lot more suitors."


    "It''s really good." Wen Chong hurriedly added, "I have heard a grandmaster who is proficient in the lute play the lute. However, that gives me a kind of ethereal feeling. As for Lady Chen Shuang, although her skills in the lute are incomparable to a grandmaster''s, the tunes of her lute are inextricable and commiserative. It''s filled with love and hate that even fine steel will turn soft."


    "Is it that good? I must listen to it carefully in the future." Young Master Hong said.


    "To be honest, I have not heard Little Shuang play the lute after I returned. The last time I heard her play the lute was six years ago." Qin Yun''s interest was piqued. The last time he heard her play the lute, Little Shuang had done so to send him off to roam the world. Back then, Little Shuang was only thirteen and her skills in the lute were still rather tender. However, it was enough to make Qin Yun''s heart wince.


    ¡­


    Among the huge crowds by Flower Solarium river''s riverbank, there was a girl dressed in a light-blue dress walking from afar. There was a leisurely air to her. Even when the people around her saw her, they would quickly forget what she looked like. They didn''t even realize anything unusual.


    "Grand Dominance in March is truly mesmerizing. The scenery is enchanting and this renowned courtesan''s artistic talent is extraordinary." The light-blue dressed girl smiled as she watched from afar. Although she was located far behind, she could still see every renowned courtesan on the cruise liner clearly. She was enjoying Lady Scented Dress''s dance.


    "The scenery is good and the people are good. Unfortunately, there is the huge demon that is the water god. It has plagued Grand Dominance for two centuries."


    The light-blue dressed woman shook her head slightly. "When Martial Uncle comes, with his help, I will be able to exterminate that huge demon."


    Although she was speaking softly, no one around her heard her.


    ******


    As time passed, it was finally time to decide on who was Courtesan Belle.


    The female host standing at the bow of the cruise liner had a gentle voice. She was a renowned courtesan in her youth as she declared the top three contestants, "Fairy Clear Autumn, Lady Scented Dress, Lady Chen Shuang."


    The moment the names were declared, there was immediately a tumultuous uproar.


    As for the ten renowned courtesans on the cruise liner''s top deck, though seven of them may feel downcast, they did not lose their composure. One by one, they walked down the stairs to the underdeck. There were only three contestants vying for the title of Courtesan Belle left standing on the top deck of the cruise liner¡ªFairy Clear Autumn, Lady Scented Dress, and Lady Chen Shuang.


    "Top three."


    Lady Chen Shuang stood there with lute in her arms. As she watched the countless masses cheer, she could not help but turn nervous. "I really made it to the top three."


    Back when she heard the cheers from the crowd, she had realized that her popularity had matched Fairy Clear Autumn and Lady Scented Dress''s. Unfortunately, she lacked experience which made unconfident of entering the top three. Having entered the top three, she could not help but feel nervous and excited.


    There were three renowned courtesans standing there. Fairy Clear Autumn was carrying a flute in one hand, while Lady Chen Shuang was hugging her lute. As for Lady Scented Dress, she stood there in a frail manner that exuded another kind of charm.


    "For this year''s Grand Dominance County''s Courtesan Belle, it would be¡­ Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s Lady Chen Shuang!" A voice came from the cruise


    "Chen Shuang!"


    "Chen Shuang!"


    "Lady Chen Shuang!"


    Cheers rang to the heavens.


    With lute in hand, Lady Chen Shuang only felt her scalp tingle. "Me? I won Courtesan Belle?"


    Such a pleasant surprise came too suddenly!


    At that moment, Lady Chen Shuang was looking everywhere for she wanted to see the person she cared most about¡ªBrother Yun. However, there were so many people that she could not immediately find him.


    There were people everywhere lining the ends of the river bank. When it was announced that Lady Chen Shuang was the Courtesan Belle, there was an immediate uproar of cheers. It was also the climax of the entire Courtesan Belle selection. And at that moment in time, no one noticed that on the bank closest to the large cruise liner, there were three inconspicuous men in the packed crowd.


    The moment the three men heard the announcement, they exchanged looks and gave a slight nod.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Three figures suddenly charged forward, sending the huddled masses flying. Screams ensued as more than ten people were thrown into the air with blood splattering through the skies.


    The three figures that charged out also instantly transformed. One of the figures had its head turn into that of a ferocious dog''s. The dog demon was wielding a saber as he jumped into mid-air and pounced at the cruise liner. Another figure transformed into a majestic wolf demon and immediately brandished its sharp claws. While in mid-air, it even swiped its claws at the people that had been thrown in the air. The last figure expanded in size till it was more than ten feet long. Ordinary people could only reach its waist for it was an extremely stout rhinoceros demon! In order to hide their identities, they were unable to bring suitable weapons. After all, with their sizes, any large weapons would definitely ring some bells. However, a simple punch from the rhinoceros demon was probably enough to strike terror in the hearts of people.


    The three demons had suddenly rushed out and jumped into the air, heading for the cruise liner that was about seventy feet away.


    This scene left everyone dumbfounded.


    "Whoever crosses the water god shall be killed!" The rhinoceros demon bellowed angrily. His bellow was like a thunderclap that resounded across a flat plain. It caused the surrounding ground to quake as the river''s waters stirred. Many of the citizens that were closest to the riverbank covered their ears in pain. As for Lady Chen Shuang, Fairy Clear Autumn, and Lady Scented Dress, who were still on the large cruise liner, they stumbled while covering their ears.


    "What? Three demons?"


    "Demons sent by the water god?"


    The experts that were defending the area were dumbstruck. Although a large amount of manpower was employed as part of the precautionary measures at every year''s Courtesan Belle selection, it was only a precaution as no demon had acted suicidally all this while.


    That was because once they appeared, the demons were definitely doomed despite causing some deaths or injury among the huge turnout.


    ¡­


    In the restaurant.


    Qin Yun was still smiling as he watched the announcement of the crowning of Courtesan Belle. As he listened to the tumultuous cheers, his expression changed suddenly as he saw the three demons charge out.


    "Demons."


    Qin Yun''s Quintessential Essence stirred as it surged to two talisman charms that were tied to his left and right trouser leggings. They were also the most expensive talisman charms on him¡ªDivine Traversal Talisman Amulets! Typical talismans were one-use items. For example, the Disease Dispelling Talisman could only be used once. However, talisman amulets were treasures that could undergo prolonged use. Although Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets were rather low-end in the cultivation world of talisman amulets, it was still a talisman amulet. They could be used repeatedly for long periods of time which naturally made them very expensive!


    This was also one of the reasons why Qin Yun was able to survive three years in the northern borders. The Divine Traversal Talisman Amulet had no other uses except for one¡ªdivine traversal! It was fast!


    "Sou!"


    In a split second, Qin Yun had charged out of the restaurant and flew across the surface of Flower Solarium river in a stream of light that approached the cruise liner at a horrifying speed!


    His speed was extremely fast!


    However, the three demons were located too close to the cruise liner. A distance of seventy to eighty feet could be traversed with a flying pounce! By the time Qin Yun discovered their assault, the demons had almost reached the cruise liner. As for Qin Yun, he was seven to eight hundred feet away!


    "No good." Qin Yun turned extremely anxious. However, there was no other option for him but to watch helplessly as everything played out in front of him.

 21 Palm Lightning

    Chapter 21: Palm Lightning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Lady Chen Shuang, Fairy Clear Autumn, and Lady Scented Dress, who were situated on the top deck of the cruise liner felt their ears ring and head buzz from the angry bellow. They stumbled and failed to find their balance as they watched the hideous and ugly demons fly towards them.


    "Demons! Three demons!" The three of them were observant but their legs went limp from fright.


    Sou!


    Lady Chen Shuang saw a stream of light heading for her over the river''s surface. Although Qin Yun''s figure remained blurry, she was still able to identify him.


    "Brother Yun." Lady Chen Shuang could feel that Qin Yun was trying his best to rush to her but the demons were just too close.


    "There''s not enough time." Qin Yun felt anxious and angry.


    This was not the first time he had encountered such a situation.


    In the battlefields in the north, his brothers that went through thick and thin with him had landed themselves in peril. When he couldn''t save them in time, he could only watch his good friends die.


    "Little Shuang." Qin Yun did not wish to see Little Shuang and Madman die just like that.


    And at that moment, the woman in the light-blue dress who was situated behind the crowd by the riverbank frowned slightly. "Demons?" There was a sharp glimmer in her eyes. With a step, she surmounted the crowd and in mid-air, she extended her left hand. Her fingers were slender and fair as lightning beams began to appear from her palm with sizzling sounds.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Accompanying a thunderclap, the lightning beams in her palm split into three. They traveled quickly in mid-air, instantly striking the three demons from a distance.


    The dog demon that wielded a saber cried out in pain as its body convulsed while it fell to the ground weakly. Qin Yun, who was rushing from afar, could see through his Dharma Eyes that the dog-head demon''s demonic aura had dissipated immediately! Clearly, it was already dead.


    As for the wolf-head demon, its clothes burst apart when it was struck. With charred fur, it fell into the river but its demonic aura remained intact. It was obviously still not dead.


    As for the most powerful rhinoceros demon, its black hide had the remnants of Lichtenberg figures after it was struck by the lightning bolt. However, it only staggered and fell to the water surface before regaining its footing on the water surface to charge back onto the cruise liner! The rhinoceros demon was also the one with the most robust demonic aura through Qin Yun''s Dharma Eyes. The effects the lightning bolt had on it was minuscule.


    However, Qin Yun still heaved a sigh of relief.


    The process of the rhinoceros demon plummeting to the water surface before leaping back up had bought him time.


    "Palm Lightning?" Qin Yun was feeling grateful as he looked into the distance.


    A woman dressed in a light-blue dress was standing on a railing by the riverbank. Her clothes were fluttering in the wind.


    "How beautiful."


    Qin Yun felt a jolt when he saw her.


    He had experienced a lot from his roaming of the world; however, the woman in the light-blue dress was definitely ranked top three in terms of looks of all the women that he had seen in his entire life. In addition to that worldly immortal cultivator aura she possessed, Qin Yun even felt like she was the prettiest women he had ever seen. Such a woman should have attracted the attention of the crowd no matter where she went but she was after all a cultivator. Mortals would not remember what she looked like and thought of her as an ordinary woman.


    "Lightning is equivalent to a decree of the heaven and earth. Among the thousands of Dharmic Dao, lightning reigns supreme. This fellow Daoist can project her Palm Lightning and split it easily into three¡­ Impressive!" Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Although Qin Yun had many surprised thoughts running through his head, his speed did not decrease at all. He was charging straight for the cruise liner.


    The Courtesan Belle selection was a grand event of Grand Dominance County so there was tight security. The top ten renowned courtesans were gathered on the cruise liner and that was where all attention was focused on. Naturally, the imperial government''s experts were situated here.


    "Demons sent by the water god? What audacity!"


    The two corridors and the deck of the cruise liner were filled with military experts.


    If the demons had reached the cruise liner from the beginning of their assault, it would be been very troublesome. However, the three demons had been struck by the Palm Lightning. One of them was dead and another injured. Although the last rhinoceros demon remained unharmed, it had been delayed. The military experts naturally launched a counter attack immediately.


    "Fire!"


    Among the experts on the cruise liner, some of them were holding crossbows. These were the most commonly seen Demon Annihilation Crossbows used by the imperial government. Privately owning them meant the death penalty.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    More than half the twelve Demon Annihilation Crossbows were aimed at the flying rhinoceros demon. The remaining ones were aimed at the wolf demon that had yet to die but had once again torn through the water surface.


    "Pu! Pu! Pu¡­" Three bloody holes instantly blasted through the wolf demon''s body. Instantly, its aura dispersed and fell back into the water, dead.


    All the remaining crossbow arrows landed on the rhinoceros demon''s body. Due to the close distance and the fast speed of the Demon Annihilation Crossbow arrows, the rhinoceros demon failed to dodge a single crossbow arrow, or could it be said¡­he did not care about dodging?


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The crossbow arrows hit the rhinoceros demon''s body like it had hit tough leather! The thick hide had managed to prevent the arrows from going more than a fingernail''s depth in, and there was no blood at all. It was completely useless.


    "What? He can withstand the Demon Annihilation Crossbows? Such a demon is actually sending himself to his death?" The military experts on the cruise liner were surprised. The might of the Demon Annihilation Crossbows was something only a leader-grade demon under the water god''s command could withstand. However, there were few demons of that grade under the water god''s command. How could it be sent to its death? Even if such a demon was forced to do so, they would probably flee Grand Dominance County. They would rather betray the water god than undertake a suicide mission.


    After all, demons were also afraid of death.


    "Take this!" The leader of the military experts on the cruise liner had taken out a black crossbow. It was the Star Chasing Crossbow that was a hundred times more valuable than a Demon Annihilation Crossbow. The crossbow arrow had countless runic patterns on it and at the moment the trigger was pulled, the Star Chasing Crossbow''s arrow''s runic patterns were instantly stimulated, transforming into a blazing trail that resembled a meteor. When the rhinoceros demon saw this, all he had was the time to twist his body slightly as the meteor-like flame tore through his chest, leaving behind a hole the size of a fist. His chest had been completely penetrated!


    "Die, all of you!" the rhinoceros demon that was more than ten feet tall continued to appear full of vibrancy despite its chest having a hole. It rushed up the cruise liner.


    "It''s coming up, it''s coming up! That terrifying demon is coming up!"


    The lower deck of the cruise liner had maids and servants, including the other seven renowned courtesans which Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was a part of. They were still somewhat in a daze for it was only when the three demons were struck by the lightning bolt, and shot by the crossbow archer experts did they manage to react. However, the terrifying demon that was as tall as a building was still attacking. It had charged up the cruise liner with immense killing intent.


    "Will I die here?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady instantly felt gripped with fear.


    "Don''t take it head on!"


    "Ensnare him." The military experts on the cruise liner were also panicking. For a demon to be able to withstand the Demon Annihilation Crossbows, and still remain so ferocious despite having a hole in its chest from the Star Chasing Crossbow''s strike meant that even the ninth level Qi Refinement expert they had would be sending himself to his death as he yet to knock open the gate of immortality.


    The light-blue dressed woman that was standing on a railing on the railing in the distance had planned on launching another Palm Lightning strike; however, when she saw Qin Yun, who was rushing over like a stream of light, she stopped. "That''s fast. Is he using some form of Dharmic Dao escape art?" Immortal cultivators that had knocked opened the gate of immortality technically could not have such fast speeds before the Connate realm. He was definitely using using some special Dharmic Dao.


    However, Qin Yun did not know of such a Dharmic Dao but he had the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets on him!


    ¡­


    "Are we going to die here?" The military experts on the cruise liner began to panic. "How can such a powerful demon be willing to send itself to its death?"


    Perhaps, the demon was able to kill the people on the cruise liner.


    However, more reinforcements from the imperial government would surround it. The demon was definitely doomed but it had come on a suicidal mission. The military experts were completely puzzled over its actions.


    "I don''t want to die, I don''t want to die!" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was chattering in fear as the other renowned courtesans were horrified.


    And at that instant!


    Qin Yun, who had rushed over from hundreds of feet away, had finally arrived! His figure was so fast that he was embodied by a stream of light. At the moment he arrived at the cruise liner, he instantly unsheathed his sword.


    "Hua¡ª"


    A blurry sword beam carved out a diagonal trajectory, across the rhinoceros demon''s waist.


    That scene was left etched in the minds of everyone¡ªthe military experts, the servants and renowned courtesans on the cruise liner, as well as the people watching by the riverbank¡ªforever! That was because the curved sword beam in mid-air left a sword scar in mid-air that remained suspended for a moment before gradually dissipating.


    The rhinoceros demon that was roaring angrily in a murderous rampage suddenly jolted. Its eyes stared round and wide as its torso began sliding off its bottom half, sending fresh blood to splatter.

 22 Yi Xiao

    Chapter 22: Yi Xiao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Phew."


    Qin Yun was standing on the cruise liner''s deck. With a flick of his sleeves, Quintessential Essence surged over, launching both the rhinoceros demon''s halves out the cruise liner and into the river.


    The rhinoceros demon had immense vitality. Even though it had been split in two and was plummeting into the river, it still had a lingering amount of vibrancy left in it.


    "Whoever crosses the water god shall be killed!" When the rhinoceros demon''s upper half was sent flying, it was still roaring angrily. It opened its mouth and spat out its heart. The heart was different from the hearts of ordinary demons. There were strange and dense black runes on its surface.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun, as well as the woman in the light-blue dress, had a change in expression.


    The rhinoceros demon''s huge eyes were filled with insanity.


    "Peng!"


    The black runes on the heart that it spat out expanded rapidly and with an explosive sound, it shattered, causing black liquid to spray in every direction.


    Qin Yun immediately waved his hand. "Seal!"


    The Sealing Spell instantly enveloped the black liquid that was splattering everywhere. But following some corrosive sounds, the sealing barrier was instantly torn through, as portions of the black liquid continued in its relentless assault.


    Qin Yun hurriedly took a step forward and slashed with his sword! Instantly, the sword beam transformed into a screen of light that blocked the black liquid in the direction of the cruise liner. The same corrosive sounds were heard as Qin Yun''s sword beam failed to block it fully as well.


    "What an unrelenting poison." Qin Yun was alarmed.


    The woman in the light-blue dress stretched out her left hand as well, causing blurry blue light to emanate and envelop the surroundings. The black poisonous liquid that was flying to her side of the river was blocked by the blue light.


    However, the poisonous liquid that sprayed to the other side of the river''s bank still hit several people despite having been obstructed by the Sealing Spell. These people immediately cried out tragically in pain as their bodies rapidly decayed. In a few seconds, these people had transformed into a pool of pus. The surrounding commoners turned pale with fright as they hurriedly retreated far away.


    "These demons¡­" Qin Yun had encountered such scenes in the northern borders. The light in his eyes turned dark.


    "Young Master Qin, thank you for saving us."


    The military experts on the cruise liner heaved a sigh of relief as they hurriedly came forward to show their appreciation.


    Lady Chen Shuang ran down the top deck of the cruise liner and looked gratefully at Qin Yun. "Brother Yun."


    "Thank you, Young Master Qin."


    "Thank you, Young Master Qin, for saving our lives." The seven renowned courtesans under deck began to appear one after another to bow.


    "It''s nothing." Qin Yun glanced at Chen Shuang before looking at the rest. "Also, you should thank someone else." If not for the Palm Lightning that bought him some time, he would not have been able to rescue them.


    ¡­


    "Move away, quickly move away."


    "Everyone, stay away."


    The huge crowds that were here for the Courtesan Belle selection were ordered to leave as the soldiers and county servicemen shouted.


    Having heard the angry roar of ''whoever crosses the water god shall be killed'', countless people had run away in fear. However, with everyone hustling and with the narrow walkways, few could escape in time. Now that they were being shouted at, they no longer showed the same sense of urgency! It was because they had seen the three demons die. There was no longer any danger.


    "Did you hear that? It says that the water god is crossed so it sent demons."


    "So what if they come? At the Courtesan Belle selection, there are so many experts. Demons will only be on a suicidal mission when they come."


    "However, about a dozen or two people died."


    The surrounding commoners sighed. However, they were not panicking. There had been worse things that happened in this world. If it was outside the city¡­ such things happened very commonly.


    "I saw lightning just now. Three bolts of lightning. Boom, boom, boom. They struck the three demons just like that."


    "Where did the lightning come from?"


    "I didn''t manage to catch the source."


    "Look at that young master on the cruise liner. He had instantly traveled from a great distance away and reached there in a blink of an eye to slay the powerful demon."


    The commoners broke out into a flurry of discussion.


    Although Qin Yun was rather famous in Grand Dominance City six years ago, it was still some time ago. His looks and height had changed rather drastically. The number of people that could recognize his return were few and far between among the countless citizens.


    ******


    By the riverbank, the surrounding troops were on full alert. The ordinary citizens could only watch from afar.


    The county governor''s son, Wen Chong, was standing at a corner. He was a little nervous as he looked at the pus on the ground.


    "Brother Qin Yun, just a few splattering drops of poisonous liquid and they turned into pus?" Wen Chong could not help but ask, "When were demons this powerful?"


    "How many demons have you seen?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I haven''t seen many but I have heard of many," said Wen Chong hurriedly.


    "Without experts around you, it''s best you distance yourself from demons." Qin Yun did not speak any further. Instead, he walked into the distance where the demon corpses had been fished out. The three demons had transformed back to their true form.


    The woman in the light-blue dress was standing there holding a tree branch. She was prodding a demon corpse and examining it carefully. And when Qin Yun walked over, he first cupped his hands formally and said, "I''m Qin Yun. Thank you fellow Daoist for the help."


    "I wasn''t helping you either. I was only saving the innocent." The woman in light-blue did not lift her head but instead continued examining the demon corpses.


    "These are demonic slaves," said Qin Yun.


    "Oh?"


    Only then did she raise her head to look at him. She said in great astonishment, "I have seen it mentioned in books. I had suspected that they could be demonic slaves but this is the first time I''m seeing them."


    "Demonic slaves are indeed rare. Having roamed the world, I have only seen them in the northern borders," replied Qin Yun.


    The woman in light-blue nodded before realizing something. She hurriedly said, "My surname is Yi. Greetings Brother Qin."


    "Miss Yi." Qin Yun said with a faint smile.


    "Brother Qin, have you seen demonic slaves before?" The woman in blue immediately asked.


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "Yes."


    "Brother Qin, can you talk about it in detail?" The woman in light-blue hurriedly asked.


    Qin Yun looked at the demon corpses beneath and said, "As Miss Yi knows, we cultivators and demons have body cultivation Dharmic methods! However, in our normal cultivation, we would be extremely careful, afraid that we would damage our bodies, which will sever our cultivation paths."


    The woman in light blue nodded.


    "However, demonic slaves are when some powerful demons forcefully and unscrupulously enhance the bodies of other demons through external forces. For example, using poison, pills or artifact refinement methods¡­ All sorts of heinous methods would eventually refine a demonic slave." Qin Yun continued, "These demonic slaves would typically not have any of their memories. They would not fear death and would completely be subservient to their master''s orders."


    "They are terrifying during wartime." Qin Yun said, "They are completely unafraid of death. An enemy that has no fear of death is one to be feared. Furthermore, slightly stronger demonic slaves have internecine means. That rhinoceros demon spat out its heart because it wanted to kill even more people knowing that it was doomed."


    The woman in light-blue nodded. "Yes, there is no question about death when one''s body is split into two. The opponent would usually loosen up. Yet, it spat out its heart to launch a crazy attack."


    "That is what a demonic slave is." Qin Yun was having mixed emotions.


    Demonic slaves reminded him of the battlefield in the northern borders. It also reminded him of his good friends that suffered grievous injuries or even death as a result of demonic slaves.


    Suddenly, the ground quaked gently.


    Qin Yun looked into the distance. From afar, magnificent steeds were galloping over. The county governor and Commander Fang were leading a group of personal guards that numbered more than a hundred men.


    Soon, the county governor arrived.


    "Father." Wen Chong hurriedly went forward.


    The county governor nodded. After he looked at the demon corpses on the ground, he looked at the light-blue dressed woman. He asked uncertainly, "Yi Xiao?"


    "Uncle Wen." The woman in blue revealed a faint smile.


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Yi Xiao?


    "You were still a young girl the last time I saw you. You have grown up." The county governor smiled. "Let me introduce you to Young Master Qin, whom I mentioned in the letter to you."


    "I have already seen Young Master Qin''s prowess." Yi Xiao said with a faint smile.


    The county governor looked at Qin Yun. "Young Master Qin, the companion I mentioned is this niece of mine."


    "I too have already seen Miss Yi''s Palm Lightning," said Qin Yun smiling.

 23 Zero Tolerance for Failure

    Chapter 23: Zero Tolerance for Failure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun could also tell that the ability to split lightning meant that Yi Xiao''s Palm Lightning was just the tip of the iceberg regarding her strength.


    "Strange."


    The county governor took a glance at the three demon corpses. His turbid eyes had a puzzled look. He said, "Although there is a huge turnout for the Courtesan Belle selection, there are similarly many experts in the vicinity. Demons similarly fear death so why would these three come seeking death?"


    "Father, it''s not the case. When this rhinoceros demon was split into two by Brother Qin Yun, it had spat its heart out. Its heart exploded, spewing large amounts of poisonous liquid. Just a few drops that hit the riverbank was enough to reduce quite a number of people to pus." As Wen Chong spoke, he pointed at some pus in the distance. The soldiers did not dare touch it. "Brother Qin Yun said that these are not ordinary demons but demonic slaves."


    "Demonic slaves?" The county governor was alarmed. "How is it possible? Grand Dominance County has not seen demonic slaves for hundreds of years."


    "Uncle Wen, they are indeed demonic slaves." Yi Xiao said from the side.


    "The great demon known as the water god has wreaked havoc in Grand Dominance County for two centuries. After cultivating for so long, it is not a surprise that it has learned the means of cultivating demonic slaves," said Qin Yun.


    The county governor frowned and had a heavy expression. "That would be troublesome if that were the case. Although the demons from before were fierce and malevolent, they were afraid of death! To send them on suicidal missions? They would rather betray the water god! However, demonic slaves are not afraid of death. It will be troublesome in the future. Perhaps, there will be more assassination attempts on me."


    Wen Chong''s expression tightened. He was the county governor''s son!


    "Not only so. This time, Young Master Qin and Yi Xiao had taken action. The water god will likely quickly know of it and vent its anger on the two of you," said the county governor.


    "I came alone and those demons won''t be able to touch me." Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    As for Qin Yun, he said with a frown, "Lord County Governor, I am usually situated in my residence so I''m not afraid of attacks from the demonic slaves. I''m just afraid of the times when I''m not around."


    "In that case, I''ll arrange for twenty Demon Annihilation Crossbows and one Star Chasing Crossbow to be sent to Qin Manor." The county governor said after some consideration.


    "Thank you, Lord County Governor," said Qin Yun immediately. His father was a silver-badge constable so there were a large number of guards in Qin Manor, to begin with. It had in its possession quite a number of ordinary crossbows and three Demon Annihilation Crossbows. Now it suddenly had another twenty Demon Annihilation Crossbows and an even more valuable Star Chasing Crossbow. A Star Chasing Crossbow was at a level that could threaten experts at Qin Yun''s level. Demon leaders like Chu Yong would die instantly if a vital spot was struck by an arrow launched from it.


    As for using it against Qin Yun?


    If there were a hundred Star Chasing Crossbows aimed at him simultaneously, Qin Yun would only be able to run for his life. It was even a question if he could survive. Of course, he would not think too much of it if there were only about ten.


    As for the demonic slaves? Qin Yun wasn''t worried at all.


    Firstly, it was not easy for the water god to unleash its fury on him.


    Secondly, demonic slaves were not easy to refine. Demons had to be used for refinement, equivalent to robbing them of their lives. Even the water god had to find a reason to seize these lesser demons. If the water god were to refine demonic slaves wantonly, perhaps many of the demons would flee or even rebel. Furthermore, it would need a great deal of wealth! The cost of refining such beings was in no way lesser than refining pills or artifacts. Most importantly, it was extremely likely to fail several times before a successful demonic slave was refined. With the water god still in the beginning stages of its refinement endeavor, it lacked experience. It would be pretty good if it could successfully refine one demonic slave out of ten demons.


    "The three demonic slaves that were sent must have been recent successes of the water god. It probably wants to see the power of the demonic slaves." Qin Yun thought to himself. "After all, the three demonic slaves clearly had varying strengths. The weakest could not even withstand one lightning bolt that came from one branch of the Palm Lightning before dying. The wolf demon was a little stronger but it could be killed by Demon Annihilation Crossbows. The rhinoceros demon was the most powerful. It could even employ internecine measures."


    Although Qin Yun verbally mentioned his concern, it was only to take the opportunity to gain benefits for the Qin Manor.


    "Constable Qin is a silver-badge constable of our Grand Dominance City. As for Young Master Qin, you have rendered meritorious service to the imperial government. It is only necessary that more crossbows are prepared," said the county governor with a smile.


    "Since Yi Xiao is here today, come with me to my residence. Also, I will get the third follower to come. He is a Grand Dominance County local. He has already been waiting in the city. The three of you can gather and have a chat. It will allow you to synergize better in the future," said the county governor.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao nodded.


    ¡­


    The county governor led Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and company back to County Governor Manor. He also sent someone to invite the other member of the expedition, Jia Huairen.


    Just after he returned, before even having a chance to warm his seat, Wen Chong hurriedly ran into his study. "Father! Father!"


    "What''s the matter? Why the stress?" The county governor put down his teacup and bellowed with a frown.


    Wen Chong hurriedly said, "Senior Zhang sent a letter saying that very few cultivators need Frostmuster Spirit Liquid. Therefore, Spirit Treasure Mountain has very little in reserves. He finds it difficult for him to produce ten pounds from the sect at once. He requests for you to extend it to half a year later."


    One of the three sacred Daoist lands was Spirit Treasure Mountain, which was also the oldest sacred land.


    "Here is the letter." Wen Chong handed the letter to his father.


    The county governor took it over and quickly scanned through it.


    "He can''t produce it? If he needs half a year, why would I need to seek his help?" The county governor''s originally calm demeanor turned hideous. "How much has he benefited from me? I want him to do something now and he''s procrastinating!? Spirit Treasure Mountain is one of the three sacred Daoist lands. It is also the oldest sacred land of the three. How can it have little Frostmuster Spirit Liquid? He just doesn''t want the trouble!"


    "Write a letter immediately for me. Tell him that he has to gather at least six pounds of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid for me in a month. The remaining has to be obtained in two months! If he can''t gather it, tell him not to ever come to me again! No, let me do the writing myself!"


    Ever since he grew old, he had relegated many things to his son, Wen Chong. At most, he would sign and stamp his seal himself.


    "Father, are you going to lose all decorum with him?" Wen Chong felt a little hesitant.


    "He''s only at the Connate False Core realm. Would I need to fear him? He''s only a disciple of Spirit Treasure Mountain but I have been giving him face all this while." The county governor''s eyes were filled with ferociousness. "I can''t live much longer. I have to obtain that thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit this time!"


    The county governor looked at Wen Chong and said, "Chong''er, if my lifespan can be extended by another two decades, I can still have a chance of being promoted higher. I can also leave my descendants, you and your brothers with even more."


    "I understand," Wen Chong said immediately.


    "Old fool Zhang, you live off me but you aren''t willing to get things done for me. Hmph! It''s fine if you swagger around me usually, but if you fail on me this time, don''t you blame me if things turn ugly! I will make him spit out all the benefits he obtained from me!" The county governor''s eyes were filled with savagery. For his twenty years of lifespan, he would kill anyone that hindered him!


    The county governor immediately sat down and wrote a letter. His text fully expressed his anger.


    As he watched his father write, Wen Chong could not help but ask, "Father, Qin Yun will probably not dare slack off even if the delivery of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid is delayed by a few months. After all, his whole family is in Grand Dominance County."


    "Hmph! What do you know?" The county governor said with a cold voice, "One cannot tell on the surface if he is doing his best! Furthermore, cultivators can be very cold-hearted. There are many that abandon their wife, children, and parents to dedicate themselves to cultivate in immortality. I have even heard of cultivation lunatics that killed all their loved ones to end all pinings."


    "Before he sets off for Green Tooth Mountain, I must give him a batch of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid! By taking something from me, it is a form of karma in the parlance of cultivation! He is from a huge sect and has been to the northern borders. He knows many cultivators so he must definitely know how important karma is. Having received benefits, he has to do his best. If not, he might run afoul with karma, causing him to experience a rough cultivation path or even calamities."


    Wen Chong was enlightened. "Father, you are indeed wise."


    "Hurry, send out this letter of mine." The county governor handed over the letter he wrote to Wen Chong.


    Wen Chong took it over and glanced at it. He nodded and said, "As long as that old fool Zhang doesn''t want to lose decorum with Father, he will obediently carry out your wishes."


    "Between him and me, it is he who has always had the most requests." The county governor said calmly. "Does he really think that things taken from my Wen family are free? Hmph!"


    "I''ll send this letter."


    Wen Chong took the letter and left immediately.


    The county governor watched his son leave as his eyes glimmered coldly, "I have zero tolerance for failure. This expedition for the spirit fruit must succeed!"


    This thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit involved twenty years of his life!

 24 Jia Huairens Desires

    Chapter 24: Jia Huairen''s Desires


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Guards and beauties had been sent by the county governor to an exquisite courtyard in Grand Dominance City, which was also the temporary residence of the expedition''s third member, Jia Huairen.


    "Babe, don''t run. I''m here to catch you."


    "Young Master, I''m here."


    Numerous girls were squatting by the flowerbeds while others were hiding behind rockery. One after another, they would call out, "Young Master, Young Master¡­"


    As for a young man that looked a little pale in the face, he extended his arms and flailed them about while being blindfolded. "Here, here, I know. It''s¡­here! Haha, I caught you." The young man hugged a girl and took off his blindfold. Looking at the voluptuous girl in his arms, he said with a smile, "Little Ye Ye, I knew it was you the moment I hugged you. Hehehe, you have lost. You should know what to do, right?"


    "Young Master, you only know how to bully me," humored the woman.


    "Yes, I love ''bullying'' you." The young man chuckled before giving her a kiss.


    "Huairen."


    A genial voice came from outside as a thin elder appeared by the courtyard''s entrance.


    "Elder Qian." The other girls bowed politely, afraid to even take a breath.


    The young man continued having the beauty wrapped in his arms. He said with a laugh, "Uncle Qian, what''s the matter?"


    The thin elder said with a smile, "The county governor has summoned you. Apparently, the other two members taking part in the expedition are already there. He wants everyone to meet each other first."


    "The county governor?" The young man was caught by surprise as he immediately released the girl in his arms and ordered, "All of you are dismissed."


    "Yes, Young Master." The bevy of beauties said together before retreating quickly.


    The young man looked at the back of the beauties and said with a chuckle, "These beauties that the county governor easily assigned to serve me are pretty good. Compared to my concubines, they are definitely of superior caliber. As expected of the county governor, he wields so much power."


    "Huairen, quickly prepare to set off." The thin elder urged him.


    "Got it." The young man turned around and entered a building beside him.


    The interior of the building was dark.


    There was an offering table that seemed to consecrate a curved blade that was placed on it. The curved blade was placed within a circular disc that was filled with thick blood. The blood was slowly seeping into the curved blade, causing the blade''s surface to suffuse dense blood-colored patterns.


    "Baby, come." The young man said as he conjured a Dharma seal.


    The curved blade flew up and spun around the young man before entering a scabbard by his waist.


    Following that, the young man took out a box from the side, covering the circular disc that was filled with blood.


    "Huairen, gaining an advantage by relying on Dharma artifacts is not the orthodox path after all." The thin elder frowned when he saw this. He reminded the young man, "It''s best you dedicate yourself to cultivating in the Dharma methods and learn techniques relating to talisman amulets. It can make your foundations more robust. Only then would you have a chance to reach the Connate realm in the future."


    "Got it, I got it. Uncle Qian." Jia Huairen said with a smile, "There is no rush to cultivating. How many cultivators fail to achieve the Connate realm their entire lives? Some would only enter the Connate False Core realm only when they are in the seventies or eighties. I''m only thirty-six. I''m still young. How long will it take before I can improve my Dharma spells and talisman amulet techniques? Having a powerful Dharma artifact is still a lot more useful."


    "Let''s go. Off to County Governor Manor. The county governor is waiting for me." Jia Huairen said, "When I''m back from Green Tooth Mountain and receive the Hundred Poisons Blood, my Dharma artifact''s strength can be enhanced even further."


    The thin elder shook his head secretly. He followed Jia Huairen and left the courtyard, heading for the county governor''s residence.


    ******


    In a quiet yard in County Governor Manor.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were sitting around a stone table as they casually discussed matters on cultivation.


    "Brother Qin." Yi Xiao changed topics and whispered, "I have something I need to remind you."


    "Miss Yi, feel free to tell me," said Qin Yun.


    "Uncle Wen commissioned us to head to Green Tooth Mountain to obtain the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit." Yi Xiao said, "It''s for his own consumption! As there''s not much left of his lifespan, he has to rely on the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit to extend his life."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Brother Qin, you can probably get what I mean! He wants to carry on living. Uncle Qin might not dare touch you but he would probably be enraged if we were to fail to obtain the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit even if you are a disciple of a huge sect. The Qin family''s days in Grand Dominance would probably not be smooth-flowing if that were to happen," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun was secretly taken aback.


    Disciple of a large sect?


    The guess that he was a disciple of a large sect was way off! Few top-grade factions had the Sword Immortal Legacy he had, which was indeed a top-grade heritage. For example, the most ancient Daoist sacred land, Spirit Treasure Mountain, still had a Sword Immortal Legacy. As for the most famous sword immortal sect, Sword Tower, which was also a top cultivation sect of one of the nineteen prefectures, Shu Prefecture, it too had a Sword Immortal Legacy.


    The birth of every sword immortal disciple was very difficult. Knocking open the gate of immortality was very difficult.


    Qin Yun was a rare case of an itinerant sword immortal, one not seen in a hundred years.


    However, if others were guessing that he was a disciple from a large sect, Qin Yun would not correct them. It was because the status as a ''disciple of a large sect'' brought a lot of tangible benefits! For example, it was sufficient to astound the county governor.


    "Back when I first met the county governor, I could tell that his days were numbered," said Qin Yun. "When he commissioned me to retrieve the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit, I naturally guessed that it was for him to extend his life. I knew it was not an easy task. However, I was not able to reject him back then. After all, I would probably have already offended him if I did so."


    Yi Xiao nodded as well when she heard that.


    "Therefore, I got some benefits for myself. It was also made clear that a batch had to be given to me before we set off for Green Tooth Mountain." Qin Yun said, "Having been bound by karma, I naturally have to do my best."


    "Uncle Wen had saved my father''s life in the past. I am here to repay the favor." Yi Xiao shook her head. "This matter is a thorny issue after all. It''s naturally best if we can resolve his request but it will only incur enmity if it is executed badly."


    "I will still need Miss Yi''s help when the time comes," said Qin Yun.


    "The main force of our trip to Green Tooth Mountain will be you." Yi Xiao said, "The third member of the group is of ordinary strength. Only that demonic servant of his is of some use."


    Qin Yun nodded. He too knew of the matter.


    "Haha¡­"


    Laughter suddenly came from outside. It was none other than Young Master Wen Chong''s laughter.


    Wen Chong walked in amid loud laughter. Behind him were a somewhat pale young man and a thin elder.


    "The third cultivator that will be heading for Green Tooth Mountain is here too." Wen Chong said from afar with a smile.


    When Jia Huairen came in, he scanned his surroundings but when he saw Yi Xiao, his eyes lit up!


    What a beauty!


    To Qin Yun, who had roamed the world, Yi Xiao''s looks were definitely within the top three of the ones he had seen. In addition to her otherworldly aura of a cultivator, she was no doubt the prettiest woman. As for Jia Huairen, the number of people he had seen was much fewer than what Qin Yun had seen. He had mostly seen those of the mortal breed. To this day, he had only seen two female cultivators. Furthermore, both of them were very old. Therefore, Yi Xiao left a huge impact on him. What''s more, he was also a huge pervert.


    "Beauty. A beauty. What a rare beauty." Jia Huairen thought to himself. The smile on his face turned even more radiant.


    "Carry on chatting. A mortal like me shall not bother with matters regarding you cultivators." Wen Chong said with a laugh before leaving.


    "My fellow Daoists."


    Jia Huairen walked over and said with a smile. "I''m Jia Huairen. On our expedition to Green Tooth Mountain, I''ll be joining the two of you in charging into the demons'' nest."


    "Please sit. Who is this?" Qin Yun looked at the thin elder standing beside Jia Huairen.


    The thin elder immediately bowed and said, "I''m just a lesser demon. My mortal name is Qian Bao. I only listen to my master''s instructions."


    "Qian Bao. Qian Bao?" Yi Xiao could not help but feel amused when she heard that. The corners of her mouth betrayed her thoughts.


    Qin Yun could also tell the humor in the matter.


    Qian Bao? Wasn''t it pronounced the same way as money bag?


    "This is the name my father gave Uncle Qian when he was still alive." Jia Huairen said with a smile.


    "Elder Qian, please sit." Yi Xiao said. "We will need Elder Qian''s help too."


    "Her voice is so pleasant." Jia Huairen marveled when he heard her.


    "To be able to help is my pleasure." The thin elder sat down without much ado. As a demon, he naturally should not stir up a fuss among human cultivators.


    Jia Huairen immediately took the initiative, saying, "Everyone, our trip to Green Tooth Mountain is fraught with dangers. There are many demons on Green Tooth Mountain, so we will need to work together in order to retrieve the spirit fruit. Now, we have to understand each other so as to be able to cooperate well. Might I ask this fellow female Daoist her name? What techniques are you proficient in?"


    Yi Xiao frowned slightly but she said, "My surname is Yi. I''m proficient in Lightning Dharma, Five-elemental Lightning Dharma!"


    "Five-elemental Lightning Dharma?"


    Qin Yun was surprised as well.


    Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was superior Lightning Dharma. Lightning Dharma with the five elements of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth harmonized together made its strength impressively huge! Any sect that had Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was definitely a top large sect. Furthermore, Qin Yun knew many cultivators. He also knew that Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was the foundations of the best Lightning Dharma in the cultivation world, Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma.


    Jia Huairen shuddered as he felt bewildered. "Five-elemental Lightning Dharma? It''s the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma? She must be a disciple of a top sect or even a disciple of a Daoist sacred land! If such a fellow female Daoist were to become my Dao partner, I, Jia Huairen, will have hopes of stepping into the Connate realm!"


    Regardless of her beauty or background, it left Jia Huairen filled with desires.

 25 Old Demonic Servant Uncle Qian

    Chapter 25: Old Demonic Servant Uncle Qian


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Miss Yi is truly formidable to master the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma at such a young age." Jia Huairen hurriedly praised her. "And what about this fellow Daoist? "I had heard of a fellow Daoist named Qin Yun that helped a renowned courtesan at Swallow Phoenix Brothel named Lady Chen Shuang a couple days ago. Was that you?"


    "It was me. You sure are well-informed," said Qin Yun.


    "Lady Chen Shuang is indeed extraordinary. For her to inspire the great scholar Yu Bai to write ''Ode to Chen Shuang'', it is no wonder a cultivator like you would be smitten by her," said Jia Huairen with a smile.


    "She is my younger sister," said Qin Yun.


    "Your sister is a courtesan?" Jia Huairen was astonished.


    Qin Yun frowned. Looking at Yi Xiao, he understood what Jia Huairen was thinking. He nodded and said, "She''s my younger sister, so what? Is there anything wrong?"


    "No, none at all. I was just being curious." Jia Huairen said immediately. "Miss Yi is proficient in the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma, so what about you?"


    "Sword techniques." Qin Yun could not be bothered explaining deeper.


    Out of the three members of the expedition, Jia Huairen was the one that was least worth mentioning. Only his demonic servant was somewhat of use.


    "Oh? Sword techniques?" Jia Huairen only felt contempt for Qin Yun when he heard that. Typically, only people who had yet to knock open the gate of immortality would use sword and sabers to fight. Once they knocked open the gate of immortality, they would cultivate in immortal techniques such as Dharma spells or talisman amulets, etc. Conversely, they would attempt to obtain a Dharma artifact. Very few would continue engaging in melee combat.


    "What about you?" Yi Xiao asked Jia Huairen.


    The corners of Jia Huairen curved up as he conjured a simple seal, causing the curved blade by his waist to fly up and float in front of him. The curved blade suffused a nether green glow. Jia Huairen said with a smile, "This is a Dharma artifact I chanced upon. I have used poisonous magus techniques to consecrate it. Typical demons would instantly be poisoned to death by something as simple as receiving a scuff on their skin."


    "Magus?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    Presently, the Daoist and Buddhist schools of cultivation were considered orthodox. The magus lineage had long been forsaken. Some of the Dharmic methods could still be found in Daoist and Buddhist schools of cultivation. However, it was true that magus techniques were indeed difficult to deal with.


    Yi Xiao was very astonished. She had thought nothing of Jia Huairen but from the looks of it, he had a few tricks up his sleeve.


    "Uncle Qian is an old servant of my family." Jia Huairen said confidently, "In a radius of five kilometers, any living aura cannot evade Uncle Qian''s detection. Just his strength alone is something none of the nineteen demon leaders under the water god can match."


    "I only have a sharper nose that aids me in detecting the living aura of others," said the thin elder humbly.


    "On our trip to Green Tooth Mountain," Yi Xiao said, "There will be numerous demons. We will definitely need Elder Qian''s help to detect and avoid the demons."


    Jia Huairen hurriedly said, "That''s right. Green Tooth Mountain has many demons but with Uncle Qian, we can readily find the easiest path. Furthermore, Uncle Qian will be able to easily finish typical demons."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was watching Jia Huairen flaunt his means by the side.


    According to his experience, only greenhorn cultivators or cultivators that had never suffered any setbacks would flaunt themselves in such a superficial manner. For instance, the Dharma artifact that Jia Huairen was so proud of¡­ Qin Yun thought nothing of it. A strike from his sword would shatter it directly! As long as it was not an Dharma treasure, it would take no more than five strikes to destroy anything even if it was of extraordinary quality.


    "Yes, it''s difficult to enter the Connate realm." Jia Huairen said wistfully. "Although I had knocked open the gate of immortality at the age of sixteen, I have still failed to step into the Connate realm after twenty years. I don''t even want to marry a wife so as to dedicate myself to cultivation so that I can step into the Connate realm as soon as possible."


    "Don''t even want to marry a wife?" Qin Yun deliberately commented, "Fellow Daoist Jia should be from the Jia family of the Heightened district of Grand Dominance County, right? Fellow Daoist Jia''s thirty-six concubines are quite well-known in Grand Dominance County."


    Jia Huairen''s expression immediately changed as he hurriedly looked at Yi Xiao. Simultaneously, he quickly said with a smile, "Haha, they are only concubines. They aren''t worth mentioning. Many of them were given by friends and I had no choice but to take them in. If I refused them, it would be disrespecting my friends. In fact, I have only seen many of them only once. Furthermore, cultivation needs one to experience secular affairs. They are only mortals and in a few decades, they might even return to the land. Only cultivators like us share the same fate."


    Qin Yun did not speak further.


    However, Jia Huairen thought irritatedly to himself, "This Qin Yun is deliberately spoiling my plans."


    ******


    That night, the county governor held a banquet.


    After the banquet, Jia Huairen led his demonic servant, Uncle Qian back to his residence.


    "Bam." When Jia Huairen sat down, he slammed his hand angrily, sending the cups and teapots on the tea table beside him to fly and crash to the ground.


    "Damn you, Qin Yun! How dare you spoil my plans?" Jia Huairen had anger depicted all over his face.


    Instead, Uncle Qian said, "Huairen, you should not have deliberately disgusted that Qin Yun. After all, all of you will be heading for Green Tooth Mountain in the future. You need to help and support each other."


    "What do you know?" Jia Huairen said with a frown. "That Miss Yi is from a large sect. If I can become Dao partners with her, I will obtain numerous benefits. I might even have a chance at stepping into the Connate realm. This is what is most important to me."


    "Become Dao partners with her?" Uncle Qian was startled. "It''s already known that you have thirty-six concubines and you still hope of becoming Dao partners with Miss Yi?"


    "Why? Can''t I?" Jia Huairen scoffed. "Those concubines of mine are mortals. Added together, they aren''t even worth a finger of Miss Yi''s. Furthermore, they are only concubines. I have yet to marry a wife!"


    Jia Huairen thought nothing of those mortal girls. He had always wished to marry a female cultivator.


    "It''s naturally good if you can marry her." The old demonic servant nodded his head slightly. "It''s also helpful for your cultivation. It''s just that it''s probably not easy to stir Miss Yi''s heart."


    "Hmph, from the way I see it, she probably isn''t that old." Jia Huairen said with a smile. "So what if she''s a female cultivator? She''s still a woman. It''s even possible that she spends most of her days cultivating, making her ignorant of the birds and the bees. She might be even easier to court. Once she falls into my hands and become mine, hehe¡­"


    The demonic old servant did not say a thing.


    It was because he did not understand relationships between men and women as well.


    "People like us from tiny sects only have superficial Dharmic methods to cultivate in. At best, we would reach the Connate False Core realm. Many Dharmic spells and talisman amulets are incomplete. The poison magus consecration methods you found was something chanced upon by you but it is also incomplete." Jia Huairen growled, "Incomplete, incomplete, incomplete! The Dharmic spells that are complete are also very shallow."


    Dharmic methods, money, companionship, and land.


    What tiny sects and itinerant cultivators lacked the most were Dharmic methods.


    "My strength isn''t much either. I can''t find better Dharmic methods for you." Uncle Qian said with a dejected sigh.


    When Jia Huairen saw this, he hurriedly said, "Uncle Qian, you have already helped me immensely. If not for you, I''ll probably not have learned any cultivation methods."


    "As for Miss Yi, she might not stay in Grand Dominance County for long. I have to grab this opportunity during this period of time. And now, only that Qin Yun is my rival." Jia Huairen scoffed. "Hmph, he has already knocked open the gate of immortality and he''s still proficient with sword techniques?"


    Jia Huairen was feeling somewhat disgruntled.


    "Master, Master." A voice came from outside as a guard quickly came in.


    "What''s the matter? What''s the matter?" Jia Huairen frowned.


    The guard immediately said, "Master, you did not go to the Courtesan Belle selection today. Little Six and I had gone to watch it. At today''s selection, there was an attack by three demons."


    "Three demons? Aren''t they just sending themselves to their deaths?" Jia Huairen was surprised. "Tell me in detail."


    "We saw very clearly that the three demons were first struck by three bolts of lightning. One of the demons died on the spot! Later on, crossbow arrows were launched from the cruise liner. It was said to be from Demon Annihilation Crossbows! With several Demon Annihilation Crossbows launching their arrows, another demon died. Finally, the last demon was apparently a rhinoceros demon. It was as tall as a house! Even the Demon Annihilation Crossbows could not damage its hide."


    "Oh?" By the side, Uncle Qian was taken aback.


    "Its hide could not be penetrated? It managed to withstand attacks from Demon Annihilation Crossbows?" Jia Huairen was also shocked. "What happened next?"


    "Then, a stream of light flew over at an extremely fast speed. The figure within slashed out with a sword, slaying that rhinoceros demon." The guard continued, "I later heard that the person who slew the rhinoceros demon with one strike was Second Young Master Qin Yun from Grand Dominance County''s Qin Manor."


    Jia Huairen''s expression changed as his throat went hoarse. "Slew with one strike? Qin Yun?"


    Uncle Qian, who was standing by the side, was also astonished. "One strike?"


    "Yes, one strike." The guard hurriedly said. "That rhinoceros demon was powerful. Even the Demon Annihilation Crossbows could not penetrate its hide. However, Second Young Master Qin was able to split the rhinoceros demon into two with one strike."


    "You are dismissed." Jia Huairen waved his hands quickly.


    The guard was somewhat perplexed but he retreated submissively.


    Jia Huairen looked at the old demonic servant beside him and said, "Uncle Qian, are you that Second Young Master Qin''s match?"


    "To not suffer any injury under the attacks of Demon Annihilation Crossbows, that rhinoceros demon''s body is not weaker than mine." Uncle Qian frowned and said, "Of course, I''m not the ablest when it comes to the physical body. However, I estimate that the rhinoceros demon has the strength of ordinary demon leaders. Even if I want to kill it, I would need about ten strikes! However, that Second Young Master Qin used only one strike. That''s somewhat inconceivable. After all, how can one split such a powerful body into two with one strike?"


    "Uncle Qian, even you are not his match?" Jia Huairen panicked.


    He knew that Uncle Qian was the biggest crutch he had! Among cultivators, he was one of the most ordinary ones of the bunch. As for Uncle Qian, he was a lot stronger. Even the great demon known as the water god had invited him to join him several times. None of the nineteen demon leaders was Uncle Qian''s match. It was precisely because of Uncle Qian that he had a chance to embark on his cultivation path and come so far.


    "It''s hard to tell without fighting him. I do not have any confidence as well." Uncle Qian reminded him, "However, Huairen, this Second Young Master Qin is not one you should offend. Your present strength is not sufficient to withstand a single strike from him. You cannot be his enemy."


    "I''m presently not his enemy either, nor can I even steel my heart to be his enemy. We are all from Grand Dominance County, so why should we be enemies?" Jia Huairen hurriedly said, "As for Miss Yi, she''s a quiet and modest maiden that is perfect for a gentleman''s mate. I''m also sincerely courting her. Everyone will be competing fairly!"


    However, Uncle Qian said, "Huairen, it might even be possible that Young Master Qin does not even care about a competition."

 26 Frostmuster Spirit Liquid

    Chapter 26: Frostmuster Spirit Liquid


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Days passed as the day of the expedition to Green Tooth Mountain approached.


    Qin Manor.


    In his study, Qin Yun was sitting in front of a desk, practicing calligraphy. His writing was written with vigorous touches and fine strokes. They were forceful like they contained a sword''s edge hidden within them but also ethereal like the smoky willows in spring. The calligraphy was excellent, sufficient to make him a first-grade calligrapher. Speaking of which, he had practiced calligraphy back when he was learning to read. However, despite copying many classic texts, his calligraphy remained atrocious.


    However, after he began practicing swords, allowing him to reach the Seamless realm, it empowered him to control every bit of energy within him, or even hair perfectly. His calligraphy also turned for the better. Unfortunately, it had form but lacked soul.


    Ever since he gained insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent, his sword intent naturally appeared in his calligraphy. It uplifted his calligraphy. With his text having a soul, he was worthy of being called a calligrapher.


    Practicing his calligraphy was a way for Qin Yun to practice his sword.


    "This Misty Rain Sword Intent of mine is still inadequate when I want to attack instantly. The sword intent is still not subtle enough." Qin Yun frowned slightly. His every stroke seemed like he was demonstrating a different sword move.


    "Second Young Master, Second Young Master. Someone from County Governor Manor has come." A servant rushed over and hurriedly said when he came outside the study.


    "County Governor Manor?" Qin Yun lowered his brush and walked outside.


    Soon, he saw the guest.


    "Brother Qin Yun, Brother Qin Yun. Good news! Good news!" The county governor''s son, Wen Chong, was shouting with a laugh from afar. Behind him were two guards.


    "Oh, what''s the good news?" Qin Yun had a guess and could not help but feel a sense of anticipation.


    Wen Chong took out an azure-colored jade bottle mysteriously and whispered, "This is the treasure you want. It wasn''t easy for my father to acquire six and a half pounds of it. He had even sought the help from a Connate expert from a Daoist sacred land. Through a great deal of effort, that Connate expert finally managed to obtain this. It really wasn''t easy. As for the remaining Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, they will be gathered within a month after your return from Green Tooth Mountain."


    Qin Yun took it over. It was ice-cold to the touch. He could not help but say joyfully, "Great. I know that Frostmuster Spirit Liquid isn''t easy to come by. Please help me thank the county governor."


    "It''s enough as long as you go to Green Tooth Mountain and obtain the spirit fruit," said Wen Chong with a smile.


    "Don''t worry. I will definitely do my best when I go to Green Tooth Mountain," Qin Yun said immediately.


    "Then, I won''t be disturbing you any further." Wen Chong said with a smile, "Remember, it will be the morning the day after tomorrow. I''ll see you at County Governor Manor."


    "Sure thing." Qin Yun nodded. It was the time that they were scheduled to set off.


    After Wen Chong left, Qin Yun immediately instructed that no one was to disturb him. He entered his room and closed the door.


    Inside his room.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on his bed. Holding the azure-colored jade bottle in hand, he pulled out the bottle stopper.


    "Phew!" A white visible mist emanated from inside the bottle, causing the temperature of the entire room to drastically decrease. There was even frost that formed inside the room.


    "Frostmuster Spirit Liquid." Qin Yun smiled. "What a great treasure. As expected of South Hill''s Wen family. They truly have access to the entire world!"


    He had thought of searching for it in the past but to no avail.


    It was because Frostmuster Spirit Liquid could only be found in the deep depths of the north sea. To seek it intentionally was worse than searching for a needle in a haystack. Typically, cultivator experts would chance upon it on the north sea''s seabed and keep it. Only top-grade cultivation sects would have some in their stores. Furthermore, the treasures in sects could not be purchased by disciples using money. There were many limitations to the allocation of resources.


    The county governor had sought the help of a disciple from a sacred land. Furthermore, he was at the Connate realm. Now, six and a half pounds had been gathered.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun stretched out his right hand as a metallic hair strand flew out from the tip of his index finger. Following that, it rapidly expanded into a three-inch-long, bright silver sword that floated in front of Qin Yun.


    "Go." With a thought, the power of his Quintessential Essence was released as it directly lifted up a portion of the flowing dark azure liquid. The liquid suffused sparkles while a frost wave emanated. Even the surrounding furniture had frost forming on them.


    With the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid being lifted up, it was instantly used to envelop the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Qin Yun immediately began using his Dharmic methods. The three-inch-long Intrinsic Flying Sword had a radiance flowing over its surface as if it were crazily absorbing the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid. With an audible hum, the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid was absorbed at a discernible rate. In just a few seconds, all of the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid had been consumed by the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "This Intrinsic Flying Sword of mine has been starving for too long." Qin Yun smiled.


    In the past, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had been absorbing materials that inclined to the elements of ''metal'' and ''wood''. As for a rare treasure like the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid that was considered ''water''-elemental¡­ A flying sword was a metallic object after all. It was not picky with metal-elemental materials. It was even willing to absorb the essence of scrap metal. However, it demanded a lot more from the rare treasures of the other four elements. For example, few water-elemental treasures were suitable for the Sword Immortal Legacy. Frostmuster Spirit Liquid was one of the easiest to obtain.


    "After absorbing the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, my flying sword will turn even tougher with the powers of the water element infusing into it. Its foundations will turn more robust. Perhaps, the moment it becomes a Dharma treasure, it has a chance of reaching the eighth-grade." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Dharma treasures had a total of nine grades.


    They were similar to the rankings of officials. Ninth-grade was the lowest and the first-grade was the highest.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword that sword immortals cultivated in could be slowly accumulated in strength even through the use of massive amounts of scrap metal. When the Intrinsic Flying Sword was finally refined, it would definitely be at least a ninth-grade Dharma treasure!


    "Go." Qin Yun began to draw Frostmuster Spirit Liquid from the azure-colored jade bottle, again and again, allowing his Intrinsic Flying Sword to absorb them.


    This absorption process stopped at the five and a half pound mark.


    "Haha, this Intrinsic Flying Sword of mine has indeed been starving for too long. Ever since it was refined, it has never absorbed water-elemental objects. Now, it has finally drunk its fill. It drank a total of five and a half pounds." Qin Yun smiled as he pushed the stopper back into the azure-colored bottle. "The absorption after this will be too slow. It will probably absorb only an ounce or two a day."


    Qin Yun could sense that after his Intrinsic Flying Sword absorbed so much Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, it had indeed reinforced its foundations.


    Even if there was no more Frostmuster Spirit Liquid later, the Intrinsic Flying Sword would be refined in three to four months.


    "Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun thought to himself, "I heard that every sword immortal that leaves their Sword Tower in the Shu Prefecture would be given an ordinary ninth-grade flying sword Dharma treasure to protect them. After all, cultivating one''s own Intrinsic Flying Sword takes too long. I''m just an itinerant cultivator and all I can use are ordinary weapons. Thankfully, I had gained insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent. Every strike of mine possesses mighty prowess."


    "However, it will be soon. Once I obtain the next batch of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will be refined in half a month."


    Qin Yun was filled with anticipation.


    To become a sword immortal¡­


    Without one''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, how could one be considered a sword immortal?


    ¡­


    Elsewhere, at County Governor Manor.


    "Father, the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid has been delivered." Wen Chong reported.


    "Alright."


    The county governor was standing while pruning his bonsai.


    "Father, we have given benefits to both Second Young Master Qin and Sister Yi Xiao. Only Jia Huairen has not been given any. Furthermore, the Hundred Poisons Blood will only be given to him after they return with the spirit fruit. Will he feel any resentment as a result? Could it even be possible that he will not do his best on the expedition to Green Tooth Mountain?" Wen Chong asked worriedly.


    The county governor stopped his pruning and looked as he son. He said with a smile, "Different tactics have to be used for different cultivators. That Jia Huairen can only amount to so much because of that old demon servant of his. He has yet to experience much setback or hardship. Such cultivators would not dare to set one toe out of line as long as they feel the threat of death. Furthermore, there is a carrot in one hand and a stick in another. I have also given him some beauties. Besides, he will obtain the Hundred Poisons Blood after succeeding."


    "For Yi Xiao and Qin Yun, they are different."


    "Yi Xiao is a descendant of the large Yi family from the Kunlun Prefecture. Its roots lie deeper than our Wen family. She is also a disciple of the Daoist sacred land, Divine Firmament Chapter." The county governor continued, "For her, we naturally have to influence her using the favor she owes us."


    "As for Qin Yun? He looks like he comes from a sword immortal lineage. Most importantly, he is someone that has carved his way out of a sea of blood. Threats will only backfire." The county governor said with a smile, "Such a person understands propriety very well. Furthermore, with us giving the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid, we have bound him through karma. He will definitely do his best."


    The county governor lowered his head again to continue pruning his bonsai. At the same time, he suddenly said coldly, "Furthermore, it doesn''t matter if that Jia Huairen does his best. He is of no use, to begin with. The reason for sending him is mainly for that old demon servant of his. That old servant is still of some use. As for him? The number of demons he has seen his entire life is probably not as many as the demons that Second Young Master Qin has killed!"


    Once Wen Chong heard that, he laughed. "Indeed! I have flipped through his dossier. The number of demons he has seen is really not more than the numbers Brother Qin Yun has killed."


    "All shall be revealed in three days." The county governor stared at the bonsai in front of him as he began to feel nervous with anticipation for the first time.


    After the spirit fruit was brought to him, he could extend his life by another twenty years.


    If the expedition failed, he would not live more than a few years.


    "Three days." The county governor muttered silently.

 27 Into the Mountains

    Chapter 27: Into the Mountains


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a blink of an eye, it was the day for the quartet to embark on their mission.


    Qin Yun had left Qin Manor early at dawn on horseback for County Governor Manor.


    "Everyone."


    In the main hall, the county governor welcomed Yi Xiao, Qin Yun, and Jia Huairen and his servant.


    "The thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit is of life-and-death importance to me." The county governor said solemnly. "On this expedition, I request all of you to do your best in retrieving the spirit fruit. If it succeeds, I will be indebted to all of you for life."


    "Uncle Wen, since we agreed to it, we will naturally do our best." Yi Xiao said.


    "Lord County Governor, you just need to await the news of our success." Qin Yun added.


    "We will definitely retrieve this spirit fruit for you." Jia Huairen said confidently as well.


    There was a servant holding a tray by the side. On it was five bronze goblets, filled with excellent wine.


    The county governor took one.


    Yi Xiao, Qin Yun, Jia Huairen, and the old demonic servant each took one goblet of wine.


    "At Green Tooth Mountain, all of you are to listen to Yi Xiao''s instructions. You are not to take matters into your own hands. Tomorrow, I will rush to the foot of Green Tooth Mountain and wait for everyone there." The county governor raised his goblet. "In short, I''m really counting on all of you."


    Yi Xiao, Qin Yun, and company raised their goblets as well.


    They imbibed the wine in it.


    "Uncle Wen, farewell." After saying that, Yi Xiao left the hall. The four of them mounted their horses and quickly left County Governor Manor.


    The county governor watched them leave.


    "Father, the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit will definitely be obtained." Wen Chong stood beside his father and assured him softly.


    ¡­


    "Trot. Trot. Trot."


    After Qin Yun and company left Grand Dominance City, they headed north along a path on horseback at tremendous speeds.


    If it were said that the city had a high population density, a result of the commoners wanting to reside in a safer city, causing the prices of houses to be extremely high, then it could be said that it was sparsely populated outside the city. Frequently, one would not even see a single person. The occasional village that they came across was a large village that had thousands of people in it! As there were enough commoners gathered, it was able to establish enough strength to defend the village. They were equipped with a large number of crossbows to intimidate the lesser demons.


    Furthermore, the on-site inspection office could send reinforcements at any time, allowing humans to survive outside the city.


    If the city interior was said to be under the absolute control of the imperial government, then city exterior was where both humans and demons split it equally!


    "Ahead is Serene City." At noon, Qin Yun and company reached Serene City and did not encounter any danger en route. As demons had much fewer numbers than humans, it was not that easy to encounter a demon.


    "About ten kilometers west of Serene City is Green Tooth Mountain." Yi Xiao said, "Let us rest here in Serene City for the night before we enter the mountains early tomorrow morning."


    "I''ll follow whatever Miss Yi says," Jia Huairen said immediately.


    He was feeling rather helpless. Days ago, when Yi Xiao was in County Governor Manor, he had gone to visit her, hoping to meet her often. However, she had been in seclusion and did not entertain any guests!


    After entering the city, they chose an exquisite inn where they stayed for the night.


    ******


    The early summer was cool but there were many mosquitoes.


    Qin Yun was sitting on the rooftop of the inn alone as he drank wine. It was a rare break for him to not cultivate his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He was also suffering from insomnia, so he had obtained a flask of wine from the manager to slowly drink it there.


    "Phew." A figure gently landed on the rooftop like a descending fairy.


    "Brother Qin, why aren''t you sleeping when it''s already so late?" Yi Xiao sat beside him and asked with a smile. "Are you thinking about tomorrow''s expedition?"


    "I''m just enjoying the night view. Hey, isn''t there a beautiful scenery, good wine, and Miss Yi here to accompany me? If I were to sleep so early, I would have missed out on such a splendid opportunity," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Yi Xiao covered her mouth as she laughed and said, "Don''t drink the wine alone. Let me have a taste of it."


    "Here you go." Qin Yun threw it casually at her.


    Yi Xiao caught it and immediately tilted her head to down the alcohol. After drinking a large mouthful of it, she choked and coughed twice, as she wiped the alcohol from the corner of her lips.


    "You don''t drink that often?" Qin Yun asked when he saw this.


    "My master is rather strict on such matters inside the sect." Yi Xiao gave a simple explanation. Following that, she said, "By the way, Brother Qin, for our trip to Green Tooth Mountain, that demonic servant of Jia Huairen will be of some use. Although he is very loyal to the Jia family, he is, after all, a demon. If you notice anything amiss, either one of us should directly obliterate him."


    "Green Tooth Mountain is filled with demons. If he really schemes against us, we naturally have to obliterate him without mercy." Qin Yun nodded. "The county governor has already said that you will be giving the instructions. I''ll do as you instruct."


    "That''s because Uncle Wen trusts me." Yi Xiao said with a smile, "In terms of experience, you have a much richer experience than me. I will also need your advice so that we can have greater confidence at retrieving the spirit fruit."


    "There''s really nothing much to be said," answered Qin Yun.


    "Brother Qin, please say something. I really do not have much confidence on this matter," Yi Xiao urged him.


    Therefore, Qin Yun said, "There''s nothing to be worried about. To retrieve the spirit fruit, the critical point is to hide our strength from the beginning. It''s best if we can reach where the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit is without exposing ourselves. If we are truly exposed, we can only reveal a portion of our strength, so that the demons would not think of us as too much of a threat. We must not make the demons think that they are unable to defend the spirit fruit or they might end up destroying it."


    "Once the spirit fruit ripens, it is natural that we immediately grab it." Qin Yun said, "The grabbing of the fruit has to be done quickly. It has also to be done very covertly because there are definitely demons staying guard around the spirit fruit. If they realize that they can''t stop us, they might destroy the fruit."


    "Once we obtain the fruit, we have to rush down the mountain and flee for our lives." Qin Yun said, "This is because the moment that happens, we will definitely startle the demons. They will unquestionably be enraged."


    Yi Xiao listened as she nodded. "I share the same thoughts."


    "The process is simple but to do it requires one to be meticulous and brave. Also, one has to be decisive." Qin Yun said, "If we encounter any exigencies, we just need to improvise on the spot. By the way, do the demons know when the spirit fruit will ripen?"


    "The last time the Ice Jade Fruit ripened was a hundred years ago. It needs to ripen ten times before it becomes a thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. Due to the long time intervals, the demons are unable to precisely calculate the moment when it ripens, or which day and hour it is." Yi Xiao said, "Uncle Wen had hired an expert adept at clairvoyance to do a comprehensive divination before confirming that the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit would ripen from nine to eleven in the morning tomorrow."


    Qin Yun nodded. "That''s good. The chances of success will be higher if the demons are only aware that it will be during this one to two months but not the hour or day."


    "If the demons know exactly when the spirit fruit ripens, it will be very difficult for us to steal it." Yi Xiao said with a smile, "As for tomorrow, I will need a lot of your help."


    "We will be helping each other." Qin Yun said, "I''m good at melee battles and bad at long-range attacks."


    "I''m the exact opposite. I''m poor at melee battles." Yi Xiao smiled slightly. Those who cultivated in Dharma spells would typically keep a distance from the demons since demons were stronger at melee fights! A melee cultivator like Qin Yun that vanquished demons was indeed rare.


    ¡­


    The second day at dawn.


    Qin Yun and company immediately left the inn. The moment Serene City''s city gates opened, they left Serene City and headed for Green Tooth Mountain.


    "Green Tooth Mountain."


    Ten kilometers was quickly traversed on horseback.


    "Grand Dominance County''s tallest mountain." Qin Yun looked up. The mountain looked grand and magnificent. Its peak tore through the clouds and it was an unknown how many demons were hiding in it.


    The four of them dismounted their horses and tied them in the neighboring woods.


    "Everyone."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun, Jia Huairen, as well as the demon servant, Uncle Qian. "I''ll be blunt but everything will be done according to the plans we previously discussed. On our entry into the mountain, we must make sure not to alert even a single demon. If anyone were to be overly careless or deliberately startles the demons, don''t blame my Five-elemental Divine Lightning for being heartless." With that said, Yi Xiao''s eyes flashed with lightning.


    Jia Huairen could not help but shirk back in fear. He immediately said, "Don''t worry. Don''t worry. Miss Yi, we will do whatever you say."


    "We will follow whatever Miss Yi says." Uncle Qian added. Even he did not have the confidence to withstand the famous Five-elemental Divine Lightning.


    "A top sect''s disciple is indeed extraordinary." Qin Yun thought to himself wistfully when he saw that.


    "Let''s go, into the mountain." Yi Xiao commanded.


    The quartet silently scaled the mountain. Even the weakest Jia Huairen had knocked open the gate of immortality, so it was rather easy scaling the mountain.

 28 Missive

    Chapter 28: Missive


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Amid the long stretches of Green Tooth Mountain, Yi Xiao instructed, "We will be heading to Mist Lake Valley. Elder Qian, check the surroundings and decide how we should avoid the demons."


    "Alright, let me do it."


    The thin old demonic servant''s nose suddenly changed into a black dog''s nose. Sniffing with it, he was able to distinguish numerous scents.


    Qin Yun watched by the side. Even an ordinary dog had a sharp nose so a dog demon''s nose was even acuter. Furthermore, the strength of the old demonic servant far exceeded the nineteen demon leaders under the water god.


    "Green Tooth Mountain lives up to its name of being Grand Dominance County''s highest mountain. There are indeed many demons lurking within. In a range of five kilometers, I have discovered quite a number." Uncle Qian said immediately. "Follow me, I will lead the way."


    "Let''s go."


    Yi Xiao, Qin Yun, and Jia Huairen followed closely behind.


    As they proceeded on, Qin Yun and company truly did not encounter a single demon under Elder Qian''s guidance.


    Uncle Qian would sniff with his nose from time to time. After traveling deep into the mountains for an hour, he came to an abrupt stop and said in hushed tones, "Miss Yi, we are fifteen hundred meters away from Mist Lake Valley. There are large amounts of demonic auras in there. As they are mixed with one another, they are probably staying there. I can''t distinguish them. However, I can determine that there are at least a hundred demons residing there."


    "Just Mist Lake Valley alone has more than a hundred demons hidden in it?" Yi Xiao''s expression changed slightly.


    Even lesser demons would typically have a strength that matched the tenth level of Qi Refinement, one equivalent to knocking open the gate of immortality.


    For example, back when Qin Yun slew the old demon Chu Yong in the underground palace, he had been attacked by seven lesser demons. In fact, all of the seven lesser demons were forces to be reckoned with! If there were more than a hundred of such lesser demons¡­even cultivators would fear them.


    "The thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit is in Mist Lake Valley. With a hundred demons there, it is likely that they are guarding the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit," said Yi Xiao. "From the looks of it, the demons place a great deal of importance on the spirit fruit."


    "Miss Yi, what should we do next?" Uncle Qian asked, "There are too many demons in Mist Lake Valley."


    "Let''s enter it first and find a spot where we can see the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit." Yi Xiao said with all seriousness, "We have to be certain that we can see the Ice Jade Fruit turn ripe!"


    "Alright."


    Uncle Qian immediately led the way without any complaints.


    "Are we entering Mist Lake Valley now?" Jia Huairen immediately asked softly, "Shouldn''t we wait for the appointed hour before entering?"


    "If we enter only when the time comes, it would be too late after discovering that the spirit fruit has ripened or been plucked. Moreover, we have to determine the trajectory needed to pluck the fruit after entering. We need to enter ahead of time," Yi Xiao looked at Jia Huairen and remarked, "Why? Are you afraid?"


    "No, not at all. How can I be afraid?" Jia Huairen knew that he could no longer retreat having come so far.


    Qin Yun remained calm. After all, he had stayed three years in the northern borders. He did not feel a tinge of nervousness at all.


    Despite a short distance of fifteen hundred meters, the quartet proceeded at a pace that gradually turned slower. They were afraid to stir the demons.


    "Can you see it?"


    Peering down the mountainside, Qin Yun and company saw the valley beneath them.


    The most eye-catching thing about Mist Lake Valley was the hot gases it emitted. The lake water was perennially warm, with hot gases billowing, misting the entire area. It was also why it was called ''Mist Lake''. Not far from the misty lake, there was a fruit tree that looked like an ice sculpture. Under the sun''s rays, it could still scatter the sunlight despite the mist.


    There was only one blue fruit hanging on the fruit tree.


    There were more than ten demons standing around it languidly! Extending the radius to the entire valley, there were easily twenty to thirty demons scattered throughout the area. Even the two mountainsides that lined the valley were guarded by demons. If these demons were hiding in human cities, they would naturally be in human form. However, there was no need to do so in the deep mountains. All of them had beast heads, with weapons held in hand or by their waists.


    "On the mountain cliffs along the sides, there are about seven demons hiding. They must be there to observe the surroundings." Uncle Qian took a sniff and immediately said in hushed tones, There are thirty to forty demons that permanently stand guard in the valley. And in that house in the middle, it is likely where the demons take their breaks in shifts. I can sense that most of the demonic aura is coming from that house."


    Qin Yun looked down. The house with its courtyard spanned quite a vast area. However, the construction was rather rough on the edges. After all, it was just a temporary residence used to guard the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit.


    "Miss Yi, how shall we pluck the spirit fruit?" asked Qin Yun.


    "The fruit tree''s surroundings are flat." Yi Xiao frowned and whispered, "More than ten demons are circling the fruit tree. There are about twenty to thirty demons that are a distance away from it. Any commotion will lead to the swaths of demons inside the house to charge out. The valley is too empty, with nothing to provide cover and concealment. To pluck the fruit¡­one has to rely on an invisibility spell."


    "Invisibility spell?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    An invisibility spell was an extremely difficult Dharma spell to cultivate in. Typically, only Connate realm experts could master it. As for demons? Due to the different demon species, all of them had different innate talents. Some could burrow into the ground or fly by nature. Some could even turn invisible, so it was pointless envying them. On the contrary, demons envied human cultivators for having a high perception that aided cultivation.


    A demon had to cultivate for more than a thousand years and they might still not match some of the best human cultivators that only cultivated for a decade!


    However, humans envied demons for their long lifespans! Even Connate Golden Core experts only had a lifespan of five hundred years.


    Each side had their own advantages.


    "Probably Brother Qin is the only one that can pluck the fruit," said Yi Xiao. "Jia Huairen probably doesn''t have the guts to pluck the fruit. Elder Qian can''t use Dao talismans either."


    "We''ll have to rely on you, Brother Qin." Jia Huairen said with an obsequious smile.


    What a joke.


    To retrieve the fruit, one might be discovered before touching the fruit if one had bad luck.


    Even if one wasn''t discovered out of sheer capability, the demons would immediately discover him once the fruit was plucked. When that happened, it was very likely that one would be encircled and attacked.


    "Alright, leave it to me." Qin Yun nodded. He also knew that the mission could only be left to him.


    Yi Xiao took out a Dao talisman.


    Qin Yun took a look and indeed, it was an Invisibility Charm. To be honest, he too had one! However, Invisibility Charms were rather expensive. As an itinerant cultivator, it was not easy for him to accumulate resources. He could not be compared with disciples from top sects.


    "Brother Qin, plucking the fruit is the most dangerous endeavor. I''ll have to trouble you. If it doesn''t work out, give up the spirit fruit and make sure you save yourself." Yi Xiao handed the talisman to Qin Yun.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll definitely save myself first." Qin Yun took the talisman over.


    "We''ll be counting on you later, Brother Qin." Jia Huairen flattered by the side. Ever since he knew that Qin Yun had slain a terrifying demon like the rhinoceros demon, he only felt reverential fear for Qin Yun. After all¡­ facing any terrifyingly formidable expert that could kill him in one move left him lacking in confidence. Furthermore, Jia Huairen had never experienced much danger in his life.


    Qin Yun looked down and considered his rough line of attack.


    "Let''s go. We should continue our approach." Yi Xiao said, "It will aid us in reinforcing Brother Qin when the time comes."


    "Continue our approach?" Jia Huairen''s expression changed slightly.


    "If we are thousands of feet away from him, we will not be able to reinforce him when he plucks the fruit." Yi Xiao said, "Let''s continue heading down."


    Qin Yun gave Yi Xiao a smiling glance. Yi Xiao was rather decisive.


    The quartet was even more careful this time.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao activated their Dharma Eyes to survey the surroundings. However, they still relied on Uncle Qian! It was because the Dharma Eyes was limited in range. When he was checking Chu Yong''s residence, he had failed to see the demons in the underground palace with his Dharma Eyes due to the distance.


    Uncle Qian led the trio and tried very carefully to approach the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit tree.


    "We can''t approach any further. We are still six hundred feet away from the fruit tree." Uncle Qian transmitted his voice. "Thankfully, there are few demons here¡ªonly a few dozen demons standing guard around here. Furthermore, demons are lazy. If they were human armies on alert, there''s no way we can come this close."


    "Six hundred feet is sufficient." Yi Xiao nodded. This bit of distance was something her lightning techniques could traverse in support of Qin Yun.


    It would not have been of use if they were thousands of feet away like before.


    "All we can do now is wait. We have to wait for the fruit to ripen." Yi Xiao said with a voice transmission.


    "Alright."


    Everyone present, including Qin Yun, turned completely still. They lay in wait silently for the spirit fruit to ripen.


    ******


    And on the roads.


    Early in the middle of the night, the county governor had secretly opened the city gates and left with his guards. They quickly arrived at Serene City. However, according to plan, they did not enter the city. Instead, they headed straight for the foot of Green Tooth Mountain.


    The county governor was sitting in a horse carriage with a group of guards surrounding the carriage. Commander Fang was also naturally following closely behind.


    "Swoosh."


    A hawk flew down from the sky.


    "Oh?" A personal guard looked up and immediately raised his arm, to which the hawk landed on.


    The personal guard retrieved the missive tied to the hawk leg. He hurriedly handed it to the county governor''s son, Wen Chong.


    "A letter?" Wen Chong took it. After looking at the emblem on the letter, he frowned. He opened the missive to take a look.


    "Halt! Father. Father!"


    Wen Chong shouted anxiously.


    The entire convoy came to a halt as the county governor pulled open the carriage''s curtains and looked out. "What''s the matter?"


    Wen Chong handed the missive to him.


    The county governor took the letter and the contents of the missive were very simple. "Rumors have it that the water god has invited his junior brother, White Tiger to Grand Dominance County to help guard the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit."


    Just that simple sentence chilled the county governor''s heart instantly!


    "White Tiger?"


    "The water god has invited his junior brother, White Tiger, to help him?"


    The county governor''s heart palpitated as his hands could not help but tremble.


    "How can this be?" How can this be? Do the heavens want me dead? Does it?" The county governor muttered to himself.


    "Doesn''t the White Tiger reside permanently in the area around Steadfast Mountain County''s Blackwind Ridge? About three thousand lesser demons in Blackwind Ridge listen to its command. This White Tiger has command over the winds, allowing him to fly. Yet, such a powerful demon is the junior brother of the water god? He has been invited to guard the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit?" Wen Chong was also somewhat panicking. After all, his father would not live past the next few years without the Ice Jade Fruit.


    "Such powerful demons have their own cultivation methods." The county governor said in a deep tone, "Cultivation methods naturally have their own heritage and masters. It''s only normal to be fellow martial brothers. I thought that¡­ the water god is too immersed in wreaking havoc so he would not dare leave the Jiang river''s lake. There would be, at most, many demons on Green Tooth Mountain but I never expected him to invite White Tiger!


    "Could this news be fake?" Wen Chong could not help but ask.


    Some humans surrendered themselves to demons.


    And similarly, there were other lesser demons that sought the patronage of humans. They could get numerous benefits from humans. The missive was sent by a demon that had sought the patronage of the county governor.


    "Since White Tiger is mentioned, it''s very likely true." Although the county governor did not wish to believe in it, the years had made him wise. He naturally knew how probable the piece of news was. "The water god might not know the exact time of en the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit''s ripening but it is capable of narrowing it down to within half a month. He has invited his junior brother, White Tiger to help guard it for half a month."


    "But for this thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit, it''s for increasing one''s longevity. A demon like him has extremely great longevity. Why would he need the fruit to increase it further?" The county governor''s expression turned somewhat ferocious.


    "Then, what do we do?" Wen Chong panicked as well.


    "If White Tiger is there, there is no hope for Yi Xiao and company." The county governor said heavily. "What I''m afraid of is that they will not be able to return alive, especially Yi Xiao. If she were to die on Green Tooth Mountain¡­ the Yi family and even the Divine Firmament Chapter will not let the matter rest easily."


    "I''ll get someone to send the message," said Wen Chong immediately.


    The county governor looked at the sky and said with a sigh, "It''s too late. It''s almost the appointed time. To go from here to Green Tooth Mountain, enter it and reach Mist Lake Valley would take too long. It''s too late, too late!"


    Once he said that, the county governor closed the curtain.


    "Do we continue advancing?" asked Wen Chong.


    "Continue. Let''s wait at the foot of Green Tooth Mountain. Perhaps, we might see them come out alive." The county governor''s voice sounded like it had aged greatly. If White Tiger was there, the county governor saw no chance of himself obtaining the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. Was it the end of his wish to extending his life by twenty years?


    "White Tiger, White Tiger¡­" There was a low mutter coming from within the carriage.


    Wen Chong''s expression darkened as well. He immediately shouted, "Continue advancing."

 29 Spirit Fruit Ripens

    Chapter 29: Spirit Fruit Ripens


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In Green Tooth Mountain''s Mist Lake Valley, there were a large number of lesser demons inside the house. Some were snoring away while others were drinking and feasting.


    "We have been taking turns day in and day out to guard that spirit fruit tree. When will this come to an end? In the past, we could enter and exit freely while guarding the spirit fruit tree, but in the past year, we have been forbidden to leave Mist Lake Valley! I''m going crazy from this stifling feeling."


    "Bear with it. It''s only May. We have to stay until the end of the year."


    "What spirit fruit tree is this that it needs so many of us to guard it? Even King White Tiger from Steadfast Mountain County''s Blackwind Ridge has been invited here."


    "King White Tiger only came here in the past half month. Perhaps, we are in the critical period. Just bear with it and do not spoil the water god''s plans. If we spoil his plans, hmph! It would be too late for regrets if you get refined into a demonic slave."


    "Yes, yes, yes."


    The other lesser demons nodded immediately.


    They had also heard the news. In the past, infuriating the water god might mean death but now, anyone that angered the water god would be refined into demonic slaves. According to the information given by the demons that helped as assistants, the refining process caused excruciating pain. Many of the demons eventually died after failing to withstand the pain.


    ¡­


    In a quiet chamber within the house that was filled with demons, a fragrant incense was burning. Its aroma filled the chamber that had a picture of a tiger descending a mountain hanging on a wall.


    There was a mat inside the chamber, with a stocky man sitting cross-legged on it.


    Wisps of black gas whistled as they swam around the stocky man''s body. The black gases would rise from his skin before entering back into his body through his nose in a cyclic manner.


    After a long while, the stocky man opened his eyes. His pupils were golden and were thin vertical slits. However, they quickly restored to normal human eyes.


    "According to Senior Brother Water God''s divination, the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit will ripen this month. I just need to bear with it a little longer." A cold glimmer flashed in the man''s eyes as he got up and pushed open the door to the quiet chamber. Outside was a silent courtyard. The dozens of lesser demons had taken up a small area of the entire house, while the remaining was left to him, White Tiger.


    Laying beside the courtyard were two axes that were bigger than an ordinary house.


    The stocky man walked over as his hands spontaneously grew white fur as his arms thickened. They resembled the claws of a tiger as he grabbed one axe in each hand, lifting both the axes easily.


    "My babies." The stocky man looked at the pair of axes in his hand and could not help but reveal a smile. "It was truly not easy obtaining these pair of axes."


    It really wasn''t easy.


    It was because each of the two axes weighed nine hundred kilograms! The materials needed to smith the axes were extremely precious. Only then could such a godly weapon be produced. Like Qin Yun, who battled in the northern border and roamed the world, the sword he used was also a godly weapon. However, that sword was barely heavier than five kilograms. In contrast, just one of these axes was nine hundred kilograms. Including the losses from the smithing process, the materials used to gather to produce an axe made White Tiger''s heart feel the pinch.


    He had only smithed one axe first before spending another three decades of hard work that was like smashing mountains of gold and silver to smith the second one.


    With dual axes in hand, the might White Tiger exuded was immediately different. Steadfast Mountain County''s Blackwind Ridge White Tiger was still very well known.


    Of course, this pair of axes were still far inferior to Dharma treasures. After all, the techniques to refining a Dharma treasure were extremely stringent. However, to White Tiger¡­a typical Dharma treasure did not delight him as much as the two axes he had.


    Only a suitable weapon was the best! It was heavy enough. Great Demon White Tiger was a white tiger¡ªking of the beasts¡ªbefore gaining sentience to become a demon. He was also a Connate realm demon. With a pair of axes in hand¡­ even human Connate False Core realm experts would flinch at seeing him.


    "Phew. Phew. Phew¡­" White Tiger swung the two axes in hand casually and slowly. Despite the axes having a combined weight of more than eighteen hundred kilograms, he was still able to lift it as though they were nothing.


    ¡­


    Mist Lake Valley.


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Jia Huairen, and Uncle Qian were quietly waiting as they constantly watched the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit tree.


    Suddenly¡ª


    As if their eyes blurred, the only blue spirit fruit hanging from the ice sculpture-like fruit tree naturally turned red in color. It took a very short period of time, almost as fast as the blink of an eye. Additionally, after the spirit fruit turned red, its surface suffused a purple sheen. The entire spirit fruit resembled a gigantic ruby.


    "The thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit has ripened!" Qin Yun gave an alert, causing Yi Xiao, Jia Huairen, and Uncle Qian to tighten their hearts.


    Finally, the time had come.


    "Brother Qin, be careful." Yi Xiao said through a voice transmission.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun had instantly taken out the Invisibility Charm that had been prepared. Immediately, he injected Quintessential Essence into it, causing the Invisibility Charm to immediately disintegrate. However, the Quintessential Essence flowed through special runic lines before turning into a transparent barrier. It easily enveloped his body and even perfectly adhered itself to every part of his body. Once he was completely enclosed in it, he turned invisible!


    At the same time he activated the Invisibility Charm, Qin Yun had also activated the two Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets that were tied to his legs.


    He needed to be fast when plucking the spirit fruit! Qin Yun naturally did not dare to hold back.


    This took time to describe but in reality, the activation of triggering the Invisibility Charm and the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets took an instant.


    "Time to go."


    With a kick of his feet, he instantly flew forward.


    By the side, Yi Xiao, Jia Huairen, and his servant watched as Qin Yun vanished in front of them. However, Yi Xiao and Uncle Qian could still sense his existence at such a close distance. Furthermore, Dharma Eyes could also see Qin Yun''s vital aura.


    Invisibility Charms mainly made things invisible to the naked eye!


    "Huairen, prepare to reinforce him. We will be taking action very soon." Uncle Qian transmitted his voice with great solemnity.


    Jia Huairen turned a little frantic but he was able to maintain his composure on the surface. He immediately replied with a voice transmission, "Uncle Qian, what do we do in a moment?"


    "What do we do? Once Young Master Qin plucks the spirit fruit, we naturally have to help him escape Mist Lake Valley. In short, we shall wait for Miss Yi''s order. Once the order is given to run, we will immediately try out best to escape. Don''t worry. Although there are many demons, perhaps more than a hundred of them, in Mist Lake Valley, it would not be difficult to escape with our lives with Miss Yi and Young Master Qin around. Furthermore, I will constantly be by your side to protect you. You must remember to use that Dharma artifact of yours. It still possesses some power." Uncle Qian said with a voice transmission.


    "Yes, I got it." Jia Huairen replied with a voice transmission.


    ¡­


    And on the other side.


    Qin Yun did not dare proceed forward without any regard. If he stirred up a strong wind, he would be discovered by the demons as well.


    "Phew." He tried his best to conceal his breathing as he silently approached the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit as fast as he could. In order not to alert the demons, he could only maintain a speed at thirty percent of his maximum speed.


    Standing around the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit were more than a dozen bored demons.


    Suddenly, a lesser demon took a sniff and curiously turned to look at the fruit tree beside it. When it saw the spirit fruit already red in color, with a purple sheen suffusing its surface, the lesser demon''s eyes widened immediately. It hurriedly said, "Look, the spirit fruit has ripened."


    Some of the other demons were dozing off but when they heard that, they were jolted awake as they turned to look immediately.


    "It has ripened."


    "The spirit fruit has ripened."


    When the lesser demons caught a whiff of the fragrance, they had an irresistible urge to eat it.


    However, the moment they thought of the consequences of eating it, they did not dare entertain their thoughts.


    "This spirit fruit has finally ripened. We have finally come to the end of such boring days."


    "Wait here. I''ll report the news to King White Tiger."


    The dozen or so lesser demons were overjoyed as immediately, one demon ran towards the house.

 30 Great Demon White Tiger

    Chapter 30: Great Demon White Tiger


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun maintained his invisibility as he traversed the mountain valley nimbly. It could be said that he neither left traces nor caused so much as a stir.


    Demons had very sharp perceptions. Being in close proximity was sufficient for them to sense the auras of humans. Therefore, Qin Yun had to avoid the demons on the way as he meandered through a distorted path to approach the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit.


    A lesser demon dashed to the house and saw the stocky man walking out the backyard''s door. Immediately, he yelled at the top of his voice.


    "King White Tiger, King White Tiger."


    Qin Yun''s ears heard the shout and he could not help but feel alarmed.


    "King White Tiger?" Qin Yun glanced behind him and into the distance, he saw the stocky man that had walked out the house.


    Due to the distance, his Dharma Eyes could not discern the aura from the stocky man.


    However, the title of King White Tiger left Qin Yun reeling


    "King White Tiger? Who in Grand Dominance County would be called King White Tiger?" Qin Yun was feeling puzzled as his expression changed.


    There was no one in Grand Dominance County by that name!


    However, in another county in the Jiang Prefecture¡ªSteadfast Mountain County, there was a famous Connate realm demon! It was the demon known as White Tiger who resided in Blackwind Ridge.


    "Could that demon be Great Demon White Tiger from Steadfast Mountain County''s Blackwind Ridge?" Qin Yun''s heart tightened. The demon''s reputation preceded him. Qin Yun obviously long knew of the famous Great Demon White Tiger.


    "Things are going to be bad if it''s really him! Regardless, I need to get the spirit fruit first."


    Without any ado, he constantly moved forward.


    When he approached the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit, he leaped up and across the perimeter formed by the dozen or so lesser demons. Standing by the tree, he instantly grabbed the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit, placing it into a jade box he brought along with him immediately after plucking it off. He stored the box away.


    "Got it." Qin Yun was delighted.


    ¡­


    Many of the demons in Mist Lake Valley had discovered that the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit had ripened. Immediately, they exploded into an excited uproar as they stared intently at the spirit fruit.


    "The spirit fruit has ripened."


    "It has really ripened."


    "It has already turned red." The lesser demons had joyous looks on their faces. The stifling days of being forced to guard the area had finally come to an end.


    This uproar made White Tiger, who was waving his pair of gigantic axes inside a courtyard, stand still. He threw his axes to the ground with a loud boom before leisurely walking out the courtyard. The courtyard''s door was also the backdoor to the house. After White Tiger walked out, his gaze landed on the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit tree that was in the distance.


    "King White Tiger, King White Tiger." The lesser demon that had come to report dashed over.


    "It has finally ripened." White Tiger was dressed in a loose white robe as he stood there barefooted. He was smiling while he looked at the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit tree.


    At that moment¡ª


    Peng!


    The red fruit that had a purple sheen swirling on its surface was plucked off with a crisp sound under the watchful gazes of White Tiger and the other excited lesser demons. Immediately following that, it vanished.


    The entire Mist Lake Valley turned silent instantly as all the demons fell quiet.


    White Tiger was also dumbfounded.


    All of them were looking at where the spirit fruit was but now, it was completely empty. All that was left was an ice-like crystalline branch that had snapped off.


    "There''s a thief."


    "Someone is stealing the spirit fruit."


    The demons immediately erupted into a furious cacophony.


    White Tiger, who was dressed in white robes and barefooted while standing outside the house, had a cold glimmer in his eyes. He suddenly roared, "Come out!"


    This roar caused visible patterns in mid-air, as though they were ripples on a water surface. It surged in every direction.


    "Come out!" "Come out!" "Come out!" "Come out!" "Come out!" "Come out!"


    The voice constantly echoed.


    The voice wasn''t powerful in the beginning but as it constructively interfered with the countless ''come out'' roars, it turned into a rumbling thunder that seemed to only grow louder. The wave patterns in mid-air turned more obvious as they swept the area. Soon, it covered a range of a few thousand feet. Many lesser demons grabbed their heads in pain. This wave also naturally reached Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Jia Huairen, and Uncle Qian.


    They were less than a thousand feet away from White Tiger.


    "Poof." The invisibility barrier that enveloped Qin Yun shattered immediately when it was struck by the wave. It revealed him. Invisibility barriers were very fragile. Even an ordinary mortal constable could crack it with a strike. Invisibility spells had their advantage in being unexpected. It had worthless defense prowess to speak of.


    "Peng! Peng! Peng!"


    At the spot where Yi Xiao and company were hiding, the surrounding vegetation shook vigorously from the shock. Leaves flew up into the sky as Yi Xiao and company were exposed.


    "King White Tiger?" Uncle Qian''s expression changed drastically. He immediately transmitted his voice, "Miss Yi, this King White Tiger is very likely Steadfast Mountain County''s White Tiger!"


    "White Tiger?" The color in Jia Huairen''s face drained as his feet went limp from fright.


    Yi Xiao came from the Kunlun Prefecture, so she was not very familiar with the Jiang Prefecture. However, since she had come to the Jiang Prefecture, she naturally memorized some basic information.


    Examples of the information were the famous great demons that resided in various areas.


    White Tiger was one of the great demons of Steadfast Mountain County. Although he did not dominate Grand Dominance County exclusively like Water God for two hundred years that rendered the imperial government helpless, White Tiger was able to have command over the winds. He could fly and even typical Connate False Core experts were not the match of this powerful demon. Even if a Connate True Core senior were to attempt to subdue him, White Tiger was able to escape by flying.


    "Who knew that we would encounter Steadfast Mountain County''s White Tiger in Grand Dominance County." Yi Xiao frowned as she transmitted her voice, "Elder Qian, Jia Huairen, you have both completed your missions. White Tiger is too powerful. The two of you just need to focus on escaping for your lives."


    "Alright." Uncle Qian felt relieved as he and Jia Huairen immediately responded with a voice transmission.


    The terror that White Tiger struck into the hearts of Jia Huairen and his servant was just too much.


    "Let''s go!"


    Uncle Qian and Jia Huairen quickly attempted to escape the valley.


    As for Yi Xiao, she rushed to where Qin Yun was. Similarly, Qin Yun ran towards her. The both of them knew that between them, one was good at melee combat while the other was good at long-range combat. It was the perfect combination for the duo.


    After all, White Tiger exerted immense pressure on Qin Yun and Yi Xiao.


    ¡­


    "Three humans and a demon that has surrendered himself to the humans?" White Tiger scoffed.


    He stood lazily where he was and casually waved his hand.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Nine starlight points of light flew out from his hand. After flying out, they expanded, turning into nine dark blue rocks that were the size of a head. There were countless runic marks on the rocks and there were black winds lingering around them.


    Nine dark blue rocks tore through the air as though they were nine meteors. Three of them headed for Jia Huairen and his servant, while a set of three rocks headed for Yi Xiao and Qin Yun respectively.


    "They are Wind Thunder Rocks!" Uncle Qian was immediately alarmed.


    "Huairen, let''s leave quickly."


    The old demon servant grew long fur as his head turned into a dog''s head. He grabbed Jia Huairen''s clothes and ran with phantom images trailing him while he pushed his speed to the limit.


    "Hehe." White Tiger sneered. He cast his gaze on the distant Qin Yun. Having plucked the spirit fruit, Qin Yun was the most important target.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun''s Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets activated as he transformed into a stream of light to speed towards Yi Xiao.


    Woosh.


    Three Wind Thunder Rocks came hurtling over.


    "Bang! Bang! Bang!"


    Qin Yun instantly drew out his sword. With the flickering of sword beams, three blurry sword flashes struck the three Wind Thunder Rocks respectively. The three Wind Thunder Rocks were extremely powerful, to begin with, but under the blurry sword flashes'' angry blows, an invisible force bored inside them, quaking all their runic patterns, including those on the surface. The three Wind Thunder Rocks began swaying.


    "Oh? My Wind Thunder Rocks!" White Tiger was astounded. Looking at the distant Qin Yun, he thought to himself, "Perhaps after a few more strikes from him, my Wind Thunder Rocks runic patterns would shatter. His sword''s strength is clearly not that strong but why would it have such great destructive power? Could he be a disciple of a top cultivation sect?"


    White Tiger''s heart stirred. The three Wind Thunder Rocks that were assaulting Qin Yun immediately turned and flew back at him.


    ¡­


    On the other side.


    Uncle Qian threw Jia Huairen forward with a ferocious look. "Quickly leave." Simultaneously, he turned back to block the three Wind Thunder Rocks. As the three Wind Thunder Rocks whistled through the air like ghostly specters, they came crushing over with fierce momentum. Uncle Qian''s figure instantly turned into a blur as he took the initiative to block three Wind Thunder Rocks, afraid that Jia Huairen would be struck.


    After all, if he missed any one of the rocks, Jia Huairen would probably lose his life.


    In order to block all the Wind Thunder Rocks, dodging to flee for his life was not something Uncle Qian could even do. It was very tough on him.


    "Phew!" Under the assault of the Wind Thunder Rocks, Uncle Qian withstood the repeated bombardment of the three Wind Thunder Rocks. Finally, he failed to defend against the barrage of attacks as a Wind Thunder Rock struck his body. He was immediately sent flying to a cliff as he spewed out a mouthful of blood.


    "Uncle Qian."


    Jia Huairen, who was frantically running for his life, noticed what was happening behind him. When he saw Uncle Qian spewing out blood, he could not help but feel his heart tighten.


    As for the three Wind Thunder Rocks, they continued their relentless assault on the severely injured Uncle Qian.


    "Peng. Peng. Peng." Every strike of the Wind Thunder Rocks was immensely powerful. They were extremely fast and Uncle Qian barely blocked two of them. The final one smashed into his chest once again, shattering his sternum. His chest depressed as blood and as bits of his viscera organs spewed out. Uncle Qian''s face that was covered in fear looked hideous.


    "I''m doomed! The gap between me and a Connate demon is just too great. I can''t even block the Wind Thunder Rocks he controls." Uncle Qian felt a deep sense of despair as he looked at Jia Huairen, who was running away in the distance. He only wished that Jia Huairen could escape successfully.


    "Boom!!!"


    Suddenly, there was a lightning flash in mid-air as lightning of five different colors intertwined and struck White Tiger.


    The lightning was extremely fast. Although it had been produced from the faraway Yi Xiao''s palm, it reached White Tiger in a blink of an eye. White Tiger immediately extended his left hand and his palm spontaneously expanded into a humongous white tiger''s claw. With his claw, he blocked the five-colored lightning.


    Boom!!!


    The Five-elemental divine lightning charred the tiger claw black. Even White Tiger had to use all his strength to withstand it. This affected his control over the nine Wind Thunder Rocks, making them turn slow and weaken in strength. It allowed Uncle Qian to temporarily escape peril.


    "Five-elemental Lightning Dharma? Another disciple from a top sect? Interesting. Very interesting." White Tiger''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    Sou!


    From a distance, Qin Yun had transformed into a stream of light as he came to Yi Xiao''s side.


    The duo stood together.


    "This tiger demon is very powerful. It only suffered minor injuries after being struck by my Five-elemental divine lightning." Yi Xiao said with a voice transmission.

 31 Assembling the Demons

    Chapter 31: Assembling the Demons


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Assemble the demons." White Tiger ordered calmly.


    "Yes, King White Tiger." A demon leader took out a trumpet hanging from its waist. It too was a special Dharma artifact.


    "Wu¡ª"


    The deep trumpeting sounds rapidly extended out after being energized by the demonic power. It reached one mountain after another and soon, covered the entirety of Green Tooth Mountain.


    Green Tooth Mountain was the biggest mountain in all of Grand Dominance County. Many demons lurked in it and there were more than a thousand of them! Now with the trumpet sounding, these demons who heard it would stop whatever they were doing, be it sleep, consumption of human flesh, or the raping of captured human females. All of them turned to the source of the trumpet sounds.


    "The Water God has given his command. Once the trumpet sounds, everyone has to rush there to provide reinforcement."


    "Let''s go."


    "Make haste."


    The trumpet was held by the leader demon of Green Tooth Mountain. It could assemble all the demons in it.


    There were demons shuttling through the woods while there were other flying demons who flew straight into the sky with their wings. An extremely few number burrowed underground to answer to the call for an assembly.


    Instantly, all sorts of cave demons in Green Tooth Mountain rushed to the source of the signal through all sorts of different means.


    Beneath Green Tooth Mountain.


    A huge group of humans and horses were proceeding forward.


    "Oh?" The county governor pulled open the curtains of his carriage and listened to the deep trumpet sounds that came from afar.


    The trumpet sound was extremely deep and left the humans with goosebumps after they heard it.


    "It''s the Green Tooth Mountain''s call to arms," Commander Fang said with dead seriousness. "Once Green Tooth Mountain''s call to arms sounds, all demons in Green Tooth Mountain have to obey it and rush to provide reinforcements. It looks like the battle has begun."


    "All the demons in Green Tooth Mountain¡­"


    The county governor shook his head slightly.


    Wen Chong hurriedly said, "Commander Fang, is there any way to help them?"


    "No." Commander Fang said categorically, "Although the personal guard army we have here is made up of absolute elites, they will be able to slay the demons en masse if we were on flat land with military formations and crossbows set up." However, if were were to enter the woods, we will not be able to take up our formations. We will end up being encircled by the demons and overwhelmed. We might not last long before our personal guard army is completely slaughtered by the demons."


    "After all, in terms of physical strength, lesser demons have strengths at the tenth level of the Qi Refinement realm." Commander Fang said with a sigh.


    The personal guard army was six hundred strong. Most of them were at the fifth or sixth level of Qi Refinement. A minority of them were at the seventh or eighth level of Qi Refinement while there was a handful that had knocked open the gate of immortality.


    However, even the weakest demon had a strength that could match those at the tenth level of Qi Refinement¡ªpeople who had knocked open the gate of immortality! For example, Jia Huairen, who had cultivated for quite a while, could only withstand the encirclement of a few demons with his enchanted weapons.


    "Moreover, they have more than a thousand. Some can burrow into the ground, while others can fly. Some are invisible so they have no lack of means." Commander Fang shook his head. "We will be courting death if we enter the woods. Only through a military formation and a large array of crossbows will we be able to deal with them."


    "Let''s wait."


    The county governor said as he looked at the huge mountain in front of him whose long rocky mass reached into the clouds.


    ******


    And on the other side.


    Mist Lake Valley.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s expression changed when they heard the trumpet.


    Qin Yun hurriedly sent a voice transmission. "This is the Green Tooth Mountain''s call to arms. Once it sounds, all the demons in Green Tooth Mountain would rush here. There might be more than a thousand."


    "I have been made aware of it in the past." Yi Xiao''s expression was solemn. "A demon is nothing to talk about but we humans tend to have weaker bodies. Even strikes from ordinary demons on us are not something we can withstand. More than a hundred demons are terrifying enough. To have more than a thousand¡­once we are surrounded, there is no way to defend against them."


    "It will take time for a thousand demons to rush here. They may seem terrifying but the threat they pose is rather low. The most problematic one is this tiger demon." Qin Yun''s voice was solemn as he said, "This tiger demon is a great demon from Steadfast Mountain County''s Blackwind Ridge. He has three thousand lesser demons under his command and has the Dharma artifacts, Wind Thunder Rocks. Typical demon leaders would instantly be crushed to death if they were struck by the nine Wind Thunder Rocks! We humans have extremely weak physiques. Even Connate False Core realm experts have to be very careful to not be struck by the Wind Thunder Rocks. In a while, you have to be careful. He might control the Wind Thunder Rocks to deal with you."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao understood as well. She had only dealt with three of the Wind Thunder Rocks previously.


    If the nine came hurtling at her, the threat they posed would naturally increase exponentially.


    "The Wind Thunder Rocks are only his most ordinary attacks."


    "As the saying goes, clouds follow dragons, while the winds follow tigers. Any tiger demon is adept at commanding the wind! There''s no need to elaborate with this White Tiger. Once he commands the winds, he can fly! Even in fights between demons, his speed is typically a lot faster than Connate realm demons. According to what I know, even the water god''s speed is only half his. This speed is the most terrifying aspect about him. I will hold him back as best I can but his speed is too fast. We might not be able to hold him back. You have to be careful as well."


    "Also, watch his formidable body. Tigers are considered the king of beasts. When tigers turn into demons, they are naturally a lot more powerful than ordinary demons. Furthermore, he has already entered the Connate realm. This tiger demon also cultivates in physical Dharma methods, giving him extremely great strength. He can even withstand your Five-elemental Lightning Dharma which is a testament to his great physique. With his dual axes, he is able to cleave apart the Dharma treasures of ordinary cultivators."


    When Yi Xiao heard that, her expression changed slightly. What she had figured out was not as detailed as what Qin Yun had figured.


    White Tiger stood there and beckoned for the nine Wind Thunder Rocks to return to him.


    The trumpet sounds came to a halt.


    White Tiger immediately bellowed, "Underlings, heed my command. Go, kill the human and demon that have fled. As for these two younglings, I''ll deal with them personally."


    "Yes, King White Tiger."


    "Kill!"


    "Kill those two!"


    Immediately, all the demons scattered in the valley shouted in unison. There were even some that were already along the mountainside or at the mountaintop. These demons roared as they surrounded Jia Huairen and Uncle Qian.


    "We''re finished." Jia Huairen was running frantically but had only reached the mountainside. Now, seeing large numbers of demons swarming over at him, he could not help but panic.


    "Huairen, just focus on running. It''s best you run as fast as possible." Although Uncle Qian was severely injured, he was able to chase up to him. His speed was clearly more than twice Jia Huairen''s speed. He constantly narrowed the gap between him and Jia Huairen.


    "Uncle Qian, save me! Save me!" Jia Huairen was desperately running but he remained extremely anxious.


    After all, more than a hundred demons were encroaching on him. Even a disciple of a top sect like Yi Xiao had panicked, much less a weak cultivator like Jia Huairen.


    "Run!"


    Uncle Qian was presently in a frenzy. Even if he were completely fine, he would eventually be torn apart by the hundred demons if he faced them alone. Now, he still needed to protect Huairen¡­ The only thing he could do was to fight it out! By using the time needed for the demons to rush from every end of the valley, he had to grasp every opportunity to do his best.


    "I thought that with Young Master Qin and Miss Yi around, it would not be problematic even if we were to face more than a hundred demons. Now, there''s only me and Huairen dealing with them I''m even severely injured. I probably won''t be able to live any longer. However, even if I were to die, I have to ensure that Huairen escapes!" Uncle Qian''s dog demon''s face was filled with ferocity.


    ¡­


    The other demons in the valley began swarming to Jia Huairen and his servant with murderous intent.


    As for the other side, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had to face one enemy! However, this enemy was more terrifying than a hundred demons.


    White Tiger grinned as he guffawed. His laughter resounded like rolling thunder. "One is excellent in swords. If I''m not wrong, you must hail from a sword immortal lineage. As for the other one, that''s Five-elemental Lightning Dharma! Both of you are disciples of top cultivation sects. I never expected that I will encounter two disciples from top sects in a tiny place like Green Tooth Mountain. If I can kill the both of you, it will definitely be a joyous occasion."


    "Now, are you ready for your death?" White Tiger said with a grin.


    As his body flashed, he instantly bulged.


    His clothes began tearing as he grew to a height of twenty feet. He was covered in white fur and there was a tiger''s head sitting atop his torso! His arms were thicker than the columns of buildings. His thighs were something an ordinary person would not be able to wrap his arms around. Even the wall of the courtyard beside him only reached the height of his knees! There were black winds howling around him naturally.


    He extended his arms, sending a strong gust of wind to wrap the two gigantic axes in the courtyard out. They were both ten feet long. However, on White Tiger''s massive figure, the two axes appeared normal in size.


    The terrifying White Tiger''s golden eyes looked at the faraway Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. He laughed hideously. "Disciples of a top sect? I love killing human disciples of a top sect like you! Come over and meet your maker!"


    At that moment, the matter regarding the spirit fruit was the least of his concerns.


    White Tiger wanted to kill such disciples of top sects!


    He took a step forward.


    Boom!


    Air tore apart!


    His figure moved so quickly like he was a meteor tearing a rift across the sky.


    Clouds follow dragons, while the winds follow tigers! White Tiger charged forward as the black wind howled. A single step allowed him to traversed hundreds of feet. In three steps, he had arrived in front of Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. In terms of speed, his speed was two to three times greater than Qin Yun''s use of the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulets. The demons in the distance were still rushing towards Jia Huairen and his servant. As for the White Tiger on this side, he had instantly appeared in front of Qin Yun and Yi Xiao.


    "He''s too fast." Yi Xiao''s calm expression also revealed a look of alarm. The speed was too scary. She used all her strength to dodge and with a backhand, struck out with her Five-elemental Divine Lightning.


    However, Qin Yun stood steadfastly.


    He had already expected the White Tiger''s speed. However, when he experienced it himself, he felt his heart palpitate. It was too horrifying! This speed meant that it was impossible to escape because the difference in speed between them was just too great. Also, if White Tiger wished, he could fly¡­ Flying would make it easier for him to chase up to the duo. Therefore, Qin Yun could only face it head-on.


    "Boom!"


    The Five-elemental Divine Lightning struck White Tiger, charring large swaths of his white fur black. However, he ignored it and had a hideous expression. His golden pupils were filled with killing intent.


    Qin Yun grabbed his scabbard with his left hand while he placed his right hand on the sword hilt. With one foot in front of the other, he bent slightly.


    The rapidly retreating Yi Xiao was alarmed when she saw that. She hurriedly said with a voice transmission, "Don''t take it head-on!"


    However, Qin Yun stood at his original spot and waited quietly.


    "Die!" White Tiger charged over with his massive figure that resembled a hill. The axes that were bigger than normal houses came cleaving down with great fury.


    Qin Yun looked up at the axe that was cleaving down at him. Without blinking, he could see every trajectory the axes made.


    "Hum!" Qin Yun instantly charged forward and withdrew his sword as a sword beam flashed!

 32 Dharma Treasure? Misty Rain Sword Intent!

    Chapter 32: Dharma Treasure? Misty Rain Sword Intent!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao''s expression changed. "Brother Qin is being too rash. White Tiger is just too savage. It cannot be fought head-on. One should exploit the advantages and avoid the disadvantages. He shouldn''t compete with him in strength."


    "Boom!!!"


    White Tiger cleaved down with all his might. When he saw his opponent drawing his sword to meet him head-on, he could not help but secretly scoff. "Even a Connate cultivator''s Dharma treasure will be sent flying by me. How dare a junior that''s not even at the Connate realm face me head-on? They are truly courting death!"


    However, when the blow was delivered, White Tiger felt his axe appear to strike layers of vortices that did not seem to resist at all. Different layers of the vortex distorted and diverted the force away, causing a large portion of his massive force to dissipate. Furthermore, the spot where the sword beam and his axe collided had a terrifying penetrating power that transfused from his axe into his tiger claws. They then streamed straight into his body through his arms.


    Even though he possessed a powerful body, he could not help but tremble!


    "Boom!"


    A powerful wave blasted out when the duo''s weapons clashed, sending sand and rubble in all directions.


    "Urgh!" White Tiger''s blow had failed. His furiously charging figure was forced to a halt. His chest was heavy and uncomfortable.


    Qin Yun similarly experienced an unimaginable force. Although he had used the Misty Rain Sword Intent, their difference in strength was still too great. He could not help but take three steps back in retreat, with each step crushing the rocks on the ground.


    White Tiger stopped as he looked at the puny human youth in front of him in alarm.


    His chest was heavy as his body was trembling.


    This forceful collision had stunned White Tiger.


    "You managed to block my attack? You aren''t even at the Connate realm but you can withstand a cleave of mine?" White Tiger was in disbelief. He was a Connate realm demon!


    "Brother Qin, you really managed to withstand it head on?" Yi Xiao, who was standing behind him, was also completely astonished.


    However, Qin Yun said wistfully with a smile, "Its massive power that can easily defeat ten is indeed formidable."


    However, the level of his moves was a lot more profound than his opponent!


    He had managed to slay Chu Yong or the rhinoceros demonic slave with one strike. They were not even given a chance to retaliate. However, White Tiger''s strength was a lot stronger than him. Coupled with the massive axe, even though his sword technique was peerless in its profoundness, he had been put at a disadvantage.


    "Without entering the Connate realm." White Tiger stared at Qin Yun with widen eyes before looking at the divine sword in Qin Yun''s hands. "Are disciples of the sword immortal lineage that powerful? No, no. The sword in your hand must be an extremely powerful Dharma treasure, right? You only managed to clash head-on with my cleave through the power of that Dharma treasure, right?"


    "Powerful Dharma treasure?" Qin Yun was rendered speechless.


    He was only an itinerant sword immortal. He did not even have a ninth-grade Dharma treasure!


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword had yet to be refined! Without a master to bestow him a Dharma treasure, where could he get one!? He had been relying on the Misty Rain Sword Intent that he figured out independently. Sword intent was extremely rare. Even in the Daoist sacred land, Spirit Treasure Mountain, or the most famous sword immortal sect, Sword Tower, only Connate True Core realm sword immortal experts would have a chance of figuring out a form of sword intent.


    Sword intent was profound and peerless.


    If a flying sword was nurtured, it could be done ten times faster! Even a tree branch that contained sword intent would slice through metal like mud.


    Qin Yun truly had the capabilities of defying the heavens for him to remain an itinerant cultivator and knock open the gate of immortality. After all, disciples groomed by places like Daoist sacred lands with all sorts of treasures, masters, and seniors would still need to have impressive talent and grit in order to arduously knock open the gate of immortality. Even when they left their mountains to tour the mortal world, sword immortal disciples would be bestowed a flying sword Dharma treasure to protect themselves.


    How were they like Qin Yun? He had to rely on himself for everything!


    "However, you have only managed to block a strike of mine. Again!" The tiger demon took a step forward as he came charging with intent to kill again.


    "Perfect." Qin Yun charged forward as well. In the northern borders, he had jointly killed three Connate realm demons with his good friends! He had fought even more Connate realm demons head-on, so why would he fear the tiger demon?


    "Swoosh."


    The massive axe came cleaving again.


    Qin Yun turned his body as he dodged the axe while he retaliated with a stab. As for the tiger demon, he agilely used the other massive axe as a shield.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!!!


    Both sides instantly engaged in a brawl as they exchanged extremely fast blows.


    The tiger demon''s axes would either take turns unleashing a barrage of attacks or switch to a harmonized mixture of offense and defense. The profoundness of his axe arts could be considered in the Seamless realm where his control was extremely precise. With his immense physical strength, even Connate False Core cultivators like Commander Fang would shrink back in fear.


    Rip!


    The mountain ground was cleaved apart by the axe, forming a massive rift about a hundred feet long.


    "Boom." A huge tree shattered. The axe did not lose its momentum as if blasted a huge pit open.


    Clearly, the tiger demon had missed several of his strikes.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!!!


    Weapons from both sides clashed, forming a multitude of rippling patterns. Other than Qin Yun''s first head-on clash to measure his opponent''s strength, the remaining blows he delivered were devastating!


    "Darn it." White Tiger cleaved down once again with his axe.


    Every time he clashed with the divine sword in Qin Yun''s hand, he would feel that the force from his axe would be diverted away, or even be repelled back at him. The divine sword simply made contact with the axe before brushing past it to head for his thigh, as though it wanted to slice his leg off. The strikes were indeed ruthless and relentless.


    "Boom." White Tiger''s other axe immediately blocked the strike.


    "I say, although White Tiger can command the winds and is extremely fast, that is only when he is charging in a straight line! If it wants to move and dodge within a confined space, how can its massive body be faster than me." Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. This made logical sense. Typically, smaller bodies were more adept at moving and dodging. The bigger one was, the harder it was to be agile. Even if the tiger demon could command the winds and was a Connate False Core realm demon, its massive body made its agility inferior to Qin Yun''s.


    ¡­


    The sizes of their bodies stood in stark contrast. It was same with the size of their weapons.


    However, in their brawl, it caused tumultuous shocks through Mist Lake Valley. Wherever a strike passed, trees would blast apart or disintegrate while boulders would shatter.


    Jia Huairen, who was running desperately for his life along the mountainside, turned to look back at the demons that were pursuing him. Uncle Qian was trying to block them in a frenzy. Jia Huairen also noticed the battle in Mist Lake Valley. He could not help but click his tongue. "That Qin Yun is that terrifying?"


    Previously, his feat of easily slaying the rhinoceros demon was just a tiny display of his capabilities.


    Now was when he truly revealed his strength.


    However, Jia Huairen did not dare think further as he continued fleeing for his life.


    "So this is Brother Qin''s strength." Yi Xiao''s eyes were bright. "It''s said that sword immortals are able to use a single sword to destroy all Dharma and are best in a fight! Brother Qin is probably one of the best sword immortals among the younger generation."


    Yi Xiao attempted to stretch her hand out to conjure the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma.


    By using her internal organs as an inductor for the lightning, she began inducing the spiritual energy in the external world to instantly condense. Five-colored lightning began lingering over her fair palm before there was a rumble¡ª


    The lightning shot at White Tiger.


    "Hmph!"


    White Tiger''s golden eyes studied the faraway Yi Xiao and decided to use his body to withstand the Five-elemental divine lightning for he could not divert his attention. His two axes had to be fully focused on dealing with Qin Yun. He was even secretly happy¡­ that he had two axes. If he only had one, he would have been severely injured a long time ago.


    "Brother Qin, this White Tiger''s physique is extremely powerful. My Five-elemental Lightning Dharma can''t hurt his core. I need time to channel my Dharma spells! Can you protect me while I channel my divine lightning spell?" Yi Xiao asked with a voice transmission.


    "Alright, I''ll protect you. Just focus on channeling the Dharma spell." Qin Yun began retreating as he closed his distance with Yi Xiao.


    As long as he was around Yi Xiao, he could completely ensure her safety with his agility and sword techniques.


    Yi Xiao immediately took out a Dao talisman with a solemn expression. With a wave of her hand, she shouted, "Wind, arise!" The Dao talisman ignited without a flame. Runes began to light up as they induced profound energies from the world.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Winds began howling. They were not the black winds that the tiger demon controlled but winds that were born from the heaven and earth. It did not have great strength.


    Although White Tiger was embroiled in a frenzied battle with Qin Yun, he naturally had a wary inclination, having lived for so long. He was constantly attentive of his surroundings and was paying heed to Yi Xiao. Although he was more wary of Qin Yun, Yi Xiao was, after all, a disciple of a top sect. She cultivated in the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma so he naturally did not dare ignore her. Now, he sensed the wind arising between the heavens and earth.


    "No good. She''s channeling her Dharma spell." White Tiger''s heart tensed up.


    "This lass can instantly produce Five-elemental Lightning Dharma. Her attainment in the Dharma is extremely high. With her channeling her Dharma spell, its strength would definitely be far superior to the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma." White Tiger knew that he was in trouble.

 33 Old Servant Qian Bao

    Chapter 33: Old Servant Qian Bao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The casting of Dharma spells instantly portrayed how deep and profound a cultivator''s attainment in the Dharma was. Furthermore, casting them would only expend a tiny bit of Quintessential Essence. For methods such as relying on Dao talismans to cast Dharma spells, it was necessary to know that every Dao talisman was difficult to produce as every material used in its production was worth a fortune. Furthermore, the production of talismans had a high failure rate. Failure also meant that the materials would end up worthless.


    For Qin Yun who did not know the art of producing talismans, Dao talismans were things he would try his best to gather.


    Using Dao talismans could simply be said to be throwing fortunes! A simple Dao talisman thrown meant a hundred taels of silver. More powerful ones meant a thousand taels. Who wouldn''t feel the pinch? Who could afford such expenditures? Therefore, the value of a talisman amulet that could be used multiple times was accentuated. As long as one took good care of the talisman amulet, one could use it their entire life. However, the price was ridiculously high. Qin Yun had only managed to get a rather low-end pair of talisman amulets.


    "She is beginning to channel the Dharma spell and a wind is beginning to stir. This is the precursor to a Dharmic Dao." White Tiger did not dare ignore it. He took a step forward and charged at Yi Xiao as he cleaved his axe down at her. However, Qin Yun''s sword blocked the axe. With a curve of the sword beam, it thrust straight at a vital part beneath White Tiger''s hip, making it defend in shock.


    "This sword immortal is too agile. The Dharma treasure he has is also way too powerful. He can completely defend against me. There is no way I can stop that lass from channeling her Dharmic Dao."


    As for using the Wind Thunder Rocks?


    Under Qin Yun''s hindrance, there was no way for him to divert his attention to control the Wind Thunder Rocks. They would end up extremely weak in strength, implying that they would be unable to pose a threat to Yi Xiao.


    "Underlings!" White Tiger bellowed angrily. "All of you, come here and kill that female cultivator!"


    He could not spare the time to kill Yi Xiao but there were nearly a hundred demons! Those who were adept at Dharmic Dao were usually weak in melee combat. As long as a handful of demons closed in on her, it would disrupt her channeling even if she was not killed.


    "Yes!"


    "Yes, King White Tiger."


    "Kill the female cultivator!"


    The demons did not dare make any delay as they immediately gave up dealing with Jia Huairen and his servant. They turned and charged at Yi Xiao.


    ******


    Going back to a few minutes ago in time, there had been two battlefields in Mist Lake Valley. On one side, it was White Tiger cleaving his axe at Qin Yun with great confidence while Qin Yun blocked it head-on. On the other side, more than a hundred demons were swarming crazily towards Jia Huairen and his servant.


    "Run!"


    Uncle Qian was darting forward while closing the distance with Jia Huairen.


    "Are the both of you hoping to escape?" Several demons pounced over from the mountaintop. They jumped over and were the first to block the duo''s route of escape.


    "Whoever obstructs us shall die!" Uncle Qian roared ferociously. With a flash of his figure, he appeared beside a demon. He stabbed his claw straight into the demon''s head, instantly killing it on the spot.


    "Be careful!" The other demons were alarmed.


    Uncle Qian was like a ghost. Although he was severely injured, his frenzied state was enough to scare the demons into retreating. Even so, another demon had its heart shattered by Uncle Qian.


    These demons began avoiding him as they circled their surroundings but did not retreat far.


    "I know you. You are that old dog from Heightened district. How are you to fight us with your serious injuries?"


    "You want to protect that human?"


    "You won''t be able to protect him. Both of you will die today."


    As the demons in the vicinity began arriving, their numbers naturally increased. The numbers went from a handful to ten as it continued increasing. These demons also knew about a dog demon in Grand Dominance County. He was extremely powerful, stronger than the nineteen demon leaders under the water god''s command. However, he had been loyally offering his services to the Jia family of the Heightened district!


    However, at that point in time, the surrounding demons could tell that the demon dog servant was severely injured. After all, he had been injured by a weapon that was controlled by the Connate realm White Tiger. It possessed immense power.


    "Get lost, all of you! Even if I were to die, I''ll drag you down with me! Come up if you have the guts!" Uncle Qian roared as he crazily took the initiative to attack the demons.


    It was because he was acutely aware that if he allowed the demons surrounding him to increase in number, he and Huairen would eventually be doomed.


    He had to give his all.


    "Rip." Uncle Qian left a gaping hole in a demon apart as he ripped its chest.


    "Phew." He bit with his mouth and snapped the neck off a demon.


    "I''m going to die this time but Huairen has to live on. He has to!" Uncle Qian was in a frenzy.


    "This old dog is mad."


    "Let''s join forces!"


    "Surround and kill him!"


    The surrounding demons were originally waiting for their numbers to increase. With the numbers advantage, they could vanquish the human and demon in front of them in one fell swoop. However, if they did not take the initiative to attack, they would be killed by Uncle Qian''s incessant attacks!


    "Attack!"


    "Kill!" The demons immediately closed in frenetically.


    "Come on. Come on. Coming here means death!" Uncle Qian''s figure flashed again and again. His speed was extremely fast. It was what he was best at. Every flash he made, his sharp claws would rip a gaping wound or penetrate the demons'' vital spots. At times, he would directly bite the other demons to death.


    As he was surrounded, the attacks from the other demons landed on Uncle Qian. To possess such strength after being struck by the Wind Thunder Rocks, it showed how mighty his body was, one that could match Chu Yong''s. The attacks of these demons constantly piled more injuries on his body.


    "Roar!" A lizard demon bit the old servant''s thigh.


    Uncle Qian turned around and pierced his claw through the lizard demon''s neck. With a twist, he snapped off the lizard demon''s head! However, large amounts of flesh were still missing from his thigh. Immediately, his speed decreased drastically.


    Bam! A bear demon''s paw slammed onto the encumbered Uncle Qian. He was sent flying with blood spewing from his mouth. In mid-air, he did a somersault and scratched another demon that tried to sneak up on him to death.


    "It''s almost the end for this old dog."


    "He has become slower."


    These demons were turning increasingly furious because more than ten of their peers had died since they began their assault just moments ago.


    However, Uncle Qian continued his mania. The fur on his head stood up as his eyes burned with derangement. All the demons that were slightly closer to Jia Huairen received a crazy retaliation from Uncle Qian.


    A huge chunk of flesh had been bitten off my thigh?


    Faster! Be faster!


    In his mania, Uncle Qian was able to maintain about seventy to eighty percent of his peak speed.


    However¡ª


    There were more and more demons gathering. The old servant''s injuries were worsening. The situation began to make the old servant feel despair.


    "No, no. Even if I were to die, I have to let Huairen live on." Scenes began arising in the old servant''s mind.


    ¡­


    "Qian Bao, come. Try carrying him." An elder handed a baby from a cradle to his old servant, Uncle Qian.


    Uncle Qian looked into the cradle at the baby excitedly. When he saw the baby giggling, he could not help but gently stroke the baby''s face.


    "Master, what name are you giving him?" Uncle Qian asked.


    "I''m just an abject scholar. Qian Bao, you managed to gain sentience, allowing you to help me establish my career and have a child in my advanced years." The elder looked at the baby in the cradle. "I won''t be able to take care of him for long. I just wish that his heart will be kindhearted and just, so as to make my Jia family flourish. Let''s call him Huairen."


    "Huairen? Huairen?" Uncle Qian muttered the name and was overjoyed.


    ¡­


    "Father."


    A boy was kneeling by the bedside. On the bed was an old man who was fatally ill. He looked at Uncle Qian beside him and said, "Qian Bao, I''m leaving Huairen to you. I don''t feel at ease if it were anyone else. Please take good care of him."


    "Alright, Master. Don''t worry. I will definitely take good care of him. Definitely." Uncle Qian''s face was covered in tears. He had gained sentience and had turned into a demon. During his transformation, he ended up looking like an old man because his master was also an old man.


    His master was the most important thing in his life.


    When he was still an ordinary puppy, his master had taken care of him well. Whenever his master had food to eat, he too would be given food.


    "Huairen." Uncle Qian looked at the child kneeling beside him.


    ¡­


    As he watched Huairen grow up, he hired private tutors and obtained Qi Refinement methods. He had even thought of means to get Huairen into a cultivation sect! Of course, Jia Huairen could only enter a third-rate cultivation sect with a possibility of becoming immortal. Uncle Qian had done his best. He had also sought all sorts of cultivation methods. Although they were mostly incomplete, he had already done his best.


    When Jia Huairen was young, he could still discipline him.


    However, he couldn''t do so when Jia Huairen grew up. Or it could be said that he was a dog demon after all. He did not know how to discipline a child. He only knew how to leave the best to Huairen.


    ¡­


    "Pu!"


    A scorpion tail pierced through Uncle Qian''s abdomen, boring a huge hole in his torso. Poison began seeping into Uncle Qian''s innards.


    Uncle Qian turned around and gave a fearsome scratch. The poisonous scorpion had fled frantically when its attack succeeded but its tail was torn off.


    "Phew. Phew. Phew¡­" Uncle Qian threw the scorpion tail away. He could feel that his breathing was turning heavy and tiring. There were more than thirty demons surrounding him. All of them were hesitating as they were waiting for the moment to strike a heavy blow at him.


    The demons could tell.


    The old dog demon couldn''t last much longer!


    "Block them. I have to block them." The old servant desperately tried his best.


    Suddenly¡ª


    An angry bellow was heard.


    "Underlings! All of you, come here and kill that female cultivator!"


    It was the angry bellow from White Tiger in the valley.


    "Yes, King White Tiger."


    "Kill that female cultivator!"


    The surrounding demons did not dare hesitate. They immediately retreated like a receding tide. Even the demons in the valley that were rushing over came to a halt and turned back to charge at Yi Xiao.


    "There''s no need to care about that old dog. He''s too severely injured. He will soon die even if we don''t touch him."


    ¡­


    Uncle Qian stood at his spot in a daze as he watched the demons retreat. Following that, he reacted and clenched his teeth to make two forceful spurts of flight to arrive at the mountaintop. He had slaughtered a path up, almost reaching the top of the mountain all this while.


    At the top, Uncle Qian collapsed to the ground. He struggled to sit up and leaned on a boulder beside the cliff.


    He looked into the distance.


    In the distance¡­


    Jia Huairen had already reached as far as the eyes could see. His figure in the woods was already a blur.


    "Huairen managed to live on." Uncle Qian leaned on the boulder and revealed a smile. He calmly sensed the vitality in him drain away.

 34 Life Struggle

    Chapter 34: Life Struggle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On the other side, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were similarly doing their best to survive. White Tiger was the greatest threat! The thousand or more demons that would rush to Green Tooth Mountain would become an even greater threat the longer they were delayed.


    "We have to rush to leave here. We can''t stay here any longer. Any longer and we will easily be surrounded by a thousand or more demons. But to leave this place, we need to send White Tiger retreating at the very least!" Both of them understood this point well. White Tiger was too unmanageable and it could ride the winds and fly. If they continued to be embroiled in a battle with it, there was no way they could escape.


    Yi Xiao looked up into the sky. The sky was dark and the winds were becoming stronger.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill that female cultivator!"


    Demons began rushing over from the surroundings.


    Yi Xiao suddenly flipped her left hand as five-colored lightning suddenly appeared in her palm. As it sizzled, it suddenly shot out, splitting into five bolts of lightning that shot at the five demons that were closest to her! The five demons were rash lesser demons. Furthermore, Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was extremely powerful, capable of even slightly injuring White Tiger. Typical demon leaders would directly be blasted to death by the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma!


    Now, although it was split into five, it was more than sufficient to deal with some lesser demons.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Thunderous sounds echoed.


    The five demons were blackened from the blast as they died instantly. The demons close to them hurriedly retreated in fright. Previously, when they were dealing with Uncle Qian, the demons were hopeful of quickly taking him down since he was heavily injured. As such, they had been daring in their assault. However, they never expected Uncle Qian to remain so formidable despite being heavily injured. It made the demons lose twenty of their peers. As such, there were fewer than a hundred demons in Mist Lake Valley presently.


    Nonetheless, the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was too terrifying. The lesser demons had no means of dodging them and death was guaranteed if they were struck.


    "Stay a thousand feet from her and she won''t be able to hit you." White Tiger''s voice resounded through Mist Lake Valley. "Flying demons, throw boulders from the sky. Crush her to death! Those with bows and arrows, shoot at her from afar. Those with great strength, throw rocks at her to smash her to death."


    "Yes, King White Tiger."


    The demons immediately responded after hearing him.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Six flying demons carried boulders and rapidly flew high into the sky. There, they aimed at Yi Xiao and threw the boulders at her.


    There were demons who were naturally talented in archery. Even ordinary demons were able to match humans at the tenth level of Qi Refinement, so they had the strength of five thousand kilograms. A pair of axes that weighed eighteen hundred kilograms could be lifted by them but they would not be able to swing it, much less use it in battle. However, by matching that strength with a good bow, and their natural talent in bows, the force delivered would be immense as well.


    There were only two demons that had bows and arrows. For Uncle Qian, whose physique matched Chu Yong, he naturally did not mind the arrows.


    But for a human lady like Yi Xiao? Moreover, she cultivated in Dharma spells so how strong could her body be?


    "Whew!"


    There were only two demons who were skilled in archery. One of them was still a distance away while the closer one had already shot with its arrows. The arrows instantly whistled at Yi Xiao as they tore through space.


    "Take this!" Demons with great strength such as bear or ox demons were standing a thousand feet away and throwing fifty-kilogram rocks at her. As though they were catapults, the rocks hurtled through the sky and precisely struck where Yi Xiao was.


    ¡­


    Instantly, boulders, arrows, as well as rocks that were thrown from a great distance away came smashing down at Yi Xiao from the sky. When Qin Yun saw this, he was worried but there was nothing he could do. He had to use all his strength to ward off White Tiger! Each of White Tiger''s two axes could easily cleave apart a small hill. They seemed to work in perfect harmony, so he was only able to barely hold back White Tiger but had yet to hurt him at all.


    "Yi Xiao is a disciple of a large sect. She should have a way to resolve such problems," Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Yi Xiao was standing motionless in her light blue robes, with no intention to dodge.


    She extended her slender arm, revealing a bracelet around her fair wrist. Now, the bracelet was suffusing golden patterns.


    "Weng!"


    Formless streams of light produced a total of three layers as they enveloped Yi Xiao.


    Boom! Boom! Boom¡­ The boulders barely managed to depress the outermost light barrier. Losing all their momentum, they fell to the side. The arrows failed to even penetrate the first layer before falling to the side. The rocks that were thrown from afar also failed to break through the first layer.


    "What!?" The demons watched from afar in gaped shock.


    "Dharma treasure?" White Tiger was astounded when he saw this. He was knowledgeable so he could easily recognize the bracelet on Yi Xiao''s wrist. It had to be a Dharma treasure!


    There was no way a Dharma artifact could have such powerful defensive strength.


    After all, it had three layers of defense. The attacks had failed to even break through the first layer.


    Yi Xiao remained very calm.


    She cultivated in Lightning Dharma and was skilled at attacking. Her defensive capabilities were weaker so her Dharma treasure was meant to save her life.


    These disciples of a top sect all have Dharma treasures to protect them." White Tiger clenched his teeth. "This sword immortal hasn''t even entered the Connate realm and is unable to engage in sword kinesis. All he can do is engage in melee combat but he already has such a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure! I dare bet that this flying sword Dharma treasure is not at the ninth-grade but at the very least, eighth-grade; perhaps, even seventh-grade."


    Unfortunately, he had no idea that the axe in his hand was worth a hundred times more than the divine sword in Qin Yun''s hand.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao looked up again. Now, the sky was dark and strong winds were howling.


    "It''s time." Yi Xiao took out a Dao talisman and immediately threw it out. "Cloud, beckon!" The Dao talisman ignited without a flame. Runes began to light up as they induced profound energies from the world.


    "Boom!"


    As the strong winds howled through the darkened sky, black clouds began to gather, turning bigger and thicker! It was as though they were approaching the ground.


    White Tiger shuddered. "This lass has yet to reach the Connate realm but her channeling creates such impressive phenomena?"


    "I have to risk it and kill her."


    While White Tiger brandished his axes that were bigger than houses to cleave furiously at Qin Yun, a long furry tail appeared behind him. The white tiger''s tail was thirty feet long and was as thick as a water bucket. Phew¡ª The long tiger tail grew out and lashed out in Yi Xiao''s direction.


    Bam!


    Simultaneously as Qin Yun blocked the axe, he turned and slashed a sword beam at the white tiger tail!


    "Argh!" White Tiger cried out in pain. Although his tail was extremely tough, Qin Yun''s sword beam was relentless. It managed to slice through about a third the way into the tiger''s tail.


    White Tiger''s tail immediately retracted and disappeared.


    "Tigers typically have three major moves¡ªpounce, wrestle and lashing. With you being a mighty white tiger demon, how can I not be wary of your lashing?" Qin Yun said. However, he was secretly alarmed. "What a powerful tiger''s tail. That''s as deep as I can go while using all my strength?"


    Other than his deathblow, he had not held back.


    As for the deathblow? It could only be used to advance. Retreating was not an option! Once it was used, he would be doomed if he failed to defeat the enemy. Therefore, he could not easily use it.


    "Darn it."


    White Tiger''s tail was severely injured so he was naturally infuriated.


    And at that moment, the black clouds in the sky grew thicker. They seemed like they were descending down on him but of course, that was only an illusion. In fact, the black clouds were still a distance away from the ground.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!" The strong winds howled as lightning began forming amid the black clouds.


    "It''s time!"


    Yi Xiao was delighted!


    Only by borrowing the powers of the world could she use her Divine Lightning Spell!


    Yi Xiao took out her final divine lightning charm. She could only successfully produce only one Dao talisman out of five or six attempts. The price was extremely high as well.


    "Five Elements from Five Directions!" Yi Xiao''s voice was clear and crisp as it reverberated through the world. "The Five-Directional Thunder God, under the summoning of the Dao talisman, rally the winds and clouds, and urge your lightning bolt to vanquish this demon! For thus was so ordered by the Lord of the Numinous Treasure!"


    Quintessential Essence was kindled as the Dao talisman burst into a blinding light, inciting the lightning powers within the black clouds.


    The moment the incantation was delivered, the heaven and earth responded.


    A thick dazzling bolt of lightning shot down from the black clouds suddenly.


    "Boom!!!"


    The thunder was so loud that the surrounding lesser demons could not help but tremble. The lightning was so fast that even White Tiger could not dodge in time. At that moment, he was fiercely brandishing the gigantic axe in his right claw. Filled with demonic powers, the axe struck tumultuously at the incoming bolt of lightning! Boom! The heaven and earth turned white! Under Yi Xiao''s control, the lightning sent the axe flying before it struck White Tiger.


    White Tiger''s body was charred black as his skin tore away, revealing flesh underneath.


    "Die!" Qin Yun had also prepared for that moment. As his eyes flashed with a radiant beam of light, he leaped up and charged forward with a deathblow!


    His deathblow demanded success! This was the time!


    The airborne Qin Yun''s sword beam lit up and with tremendous speed, slashed straight at White Tiger''s neck in a bid to slice off its head!

 35 Tiger Demon Loses Claw

    Chapter 35: Tiger Demon Loses Claw


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After being struck, White Tiger felt his head buzz. Pain ran through his body as his skin began lacerating. His ligaments and bones were rupturing and even his blood was charred black. When Qin Yun came attacking with his deathblow, White Tiger''s heart quivered. His survival instinct made his eyes widen but he could only barely make out the strike that Qin Yun was delivering. He instinctively raised the axe in his left claw to shield himself.


    Although he was severely injured, White Tiger was still able to raise the axe extremely fast under the desire to survive.


    "No good. There''s no way to strike a vital spot." Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly when he saw the turn of events. However, he could not stop his sword. He deviated it slightly and slashed at the arm that White Tiger was holding his axe with.


    "I''ll cleave off a claw of yours first!"


    Shoo!


    Qin Yun''s sword was too fast. The momentum of the sword horrifying as it advanced relentlessly. It was already impressive that White Tiger was able to raise his axe to block his vital spots despite the severe injuries. However, he no longer had any more time because the strike cleaved straight at White Tiger''s arm.


    "Judging from the strength he used to hurt my tail, he will at best injure my arm¡ª" Such a thought flashed across White Tiger''s mind before he felt an excruciating pain.


    Pew!


    The sword beam was filled with killing intent and resembled an indomitable hurricane. With a thud, the claw that was clenching the massive axe fell to the ground.


    Once Qin Yun''s strike lost its momentum, he opened himself to attacks. However, White Tiger was already severely injured and horrified.


    When Qin Yun struck again with his backhand, White Tiger was immediately enveloped by black winds as he instantly retreated backward with a boom.


    "It escaped so quickly."


    Qin Yun stepped on the axe beneath him and did not engage in a pursuit! He knew that if White Tiger really wanted to flee, there was no way for his speed, or even a Connate True Core expert, to chase up to it. Even Water God, who had terrorized the Grand Dominance County for two centuries, had speed about half White Tiger''s.


    As White Tiger simultaneously retreated, he passed by the other axe that had been sent flying far away after being struck by the lightning bolt. He used his right claw to grab the axe and immediately flew up into the sky with a whoosh.


    By commanding the black winds, White Tiger looked down from mid-air and heaved a sigh of relief.


    "My hand." White Tiger looked at the left claw that he had lost. Then, he looked down at the axe that Qin Yun was stepping on. "My axe!"


    Despite having lost a claw and being severely injured, at his cultivation level, he could still grow it out again with the help of his master. However, he would firstly, need to consume a lot of nourishing items and secondly, he would need time.


    Compared to the claw, White Tiger was feeling the pinch for his axe!


    Two axes¡­ They cost him nearly all the treasures he had accumulated over many years. For the second axe, he had spent three decades to gather the required amount.


    "Tiger demon, come down if you have the guts." Qin Yun looked up and bellowed angrily.


    White Tiger''s expression was hideous but he knew. "I was only able to completely defend against his attacks with two axes! I only have one axe now. I can''t even defend against him when I''m in perfect condition, much less after my serious injuries from being struck by lightning. Furthermore, I have lost one claw. My strength is probably only at thirty percent. Going down is probably equivalent to suicide."


    "That strike was too powerful! My powerful physique and especially my front claws are immensely strong. How did he cleave it off with one strike? Was he hiding his strength when he slashed at my tail?" White Tiger still remembered that in the battle with Qin Yun, Qin Yun began to seemingly expose his weaknesses after using up all his moves. He no longer appeared completely impregnable that the misty rain''s blur gave him.


    "That must be his deathblow. It has flaws but is extremely powerful." White Tiger thought to himself.


    "Hmph, if not for me being struck by the divine lightning and still having two axes, how could he cleave off my hand?" White Tiger swept his gaze at the light blue-clothed woman, Yi Xiao, who was standing beside Qin Yun. He felt a deep sense of resentment and hatred for her.


    ¡­


    Below him in Mist Lake Valley.


    Qin Yun looked up at the amputated White Tiger holding a massive axe. It controlled the black winds but it refused to come down.


    "It does not dare come down. This demon is very careful. I heard that Water God has wreaked so much havoc that even Connate Golden Core experts want to finish him but it does not dare leave the Jiang river," said Qin Yun. "This White Tiger is the same. Once it notices that things aren''t going well, it would fly into the sky and flee."


    White Tiger was already fast enough when fleeing on the ground.


    However, it was most adept at fleeing through flight! White Tiger could innately control the winds and it had cultivated arduously to fly in the sky¡­ It was too difficult to chase after it.


    Flying was not simple. Even many Connate False Core experts like Commander Fang could not fly!


    "Such great demons are obviously careful. There have been elderly seniors at the Connate Golden Core realm in my sect that have wanted to vanquish Water God but it stays close to the Jiang riverbanks. Once it discovers a danger, it would immediately enter the Jiang river." Yi Xiao walked over and said, "It''s because Water God can control the water that allows it to terrorize Grand Dominance County for two centuries, yet the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sects are unable to do a thing about it."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The weak humans were not its match.


    The strong ones would not be able to chase up to Water God in the water.


    "Swoosh."


    At a high altitude, White Tiger flew to the demons that numbered nearly a hundred and grabbed the Green Tooth Mountain trumpet.


    "All of you, retreat! Retreat out of Mist Lake Valley! Defend the perimeter. When more than a thousand demons are gathered, I want to see how they will be able to handle it." White Tiger flew up again with a hideous face as he simultaneously gave the orders.


    "Yes, King White Tiger." All the demons rapidly retreated and headed out of Mist Lake Valley.


    The number of demons was increasing rapidly.


    There were some that could fly in the sky or burrow underground. They had all sorts of strange means which would leave disastrous consequences if they attacked together!


    "Hmph, when the time comes, that sword immortal has only one sword. He will not be able to withstand all the attacks. As long as he misses a single one of them, he will be struck. Humans do not have strong physiques." White Tiger was confident. "As for that female cultivator, so what if she has a Dharma treasure? Using a Dharma treasure requires spending Quintessential Essence. With so many demons attacking her in a frenzy, it will only exhaust her of her Quintessential Essence faster."


    "After all, they are juniors that have yet to enter the Connate realm. It might even be probable that the divine lightning spell she used has depleted more than half of her Quintessential Essence."


    "Once she is completely drained off her Quintessential Essence, it will mean her death."


    White Tiger had decided that he needed the man and woman dead to firstly, vent his anger. Secondly and most importantly, to retrieve his axe! As for the spirit fruit? That was the least of his considerations.


    ******


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao both knew that the greatest danger was the thousand-strong demons that would soon surround them.


    "Brother Qin, after using the divine lightning spell, more than half my Quintessential Essence has been expended. Even the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma is something I can at best cast another seven or eight times," said Yi Xiao.


    "It''s fine. Leave it to me. There''s no need for you to cast the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma either. Just ensure that you stay alive." Qin Yun looked down at the tiger claw that had already returned to its true form. The tiger claw was thicker than his waist. The length of the segment was about his height. The tiger claw''s hide was a precious item. Vests made of it were valuable. Every sharp claw on the tiger''s paw was like a curved blade. Each one of them was longer than his sword!


    As for the axe that was about ten feet long, holding it up vertically made it about the height of a typical house. Such a massive axe that was made of extraordinary materials would be considered valuable if it were about five kilograms. But it was nine hundred kilograms¡­ It was a treasure in itself!


    He sheathed his sword.


    With the massive axe in one hand, he held the tiger claw in his other.


    "Let''s go. Uncle Qian is still on the mountaintop. Let''s rush there. We must not let him be harmed by the demons," said Qin Yun. He could see Uncle Qian sitting on the mountaintop at a glance.


    "Alright, let''s go."


    The duo was extremely fast, much faster than the ordinary demons.


    They moved swiftly and headed straight for Uncle Qian.


    Along the mountain, beginning from the mountainside, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao saw demon corpses strewn on the ground. Their expressions changed. Many of these demon corpses had been ripped apart or penetrated by sharp claws. Some of them had been bitten to death. Clearly, they were wounds inflicted by another demon.


    Not a single one of the demon corpses managed to reach the mountaintop.


    "Elder Qian has managed to stop all the demons beneath the cliff." As Yi Xiao rushed up the mountain, she looked at her surroundings and transmitted her voice. "If he was fleeing alone, he just needed to focus on escaping far away. There was no need to risk his life to fight in such a manner."


    "He is protecting that Jia Huairen." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "Elder Qian is rather famous in Grand Dominance County. After all, none of the nineteen demon leaders under the water god can match Elder Qian in strength. Water God had invited him numerous times but he had ignored it, dedicating his services to the Jia Manor. I heard that he was an ordinary mutt that the previous owner of Jia Manor reared when he was down and out. Later on, an opportunity befell him, allowing him to gain sentience to transform into a demon. He served his owner loyally. The previous owner of the Jia Manor supposedly lived in terrible conditions but with the demon servant''s aid, he established his family estate. However, the previous owner of the Jia Manor was just too old. After a few years of bliss, he passed away from an illness, leaving behind his only son, Jia Huairen. It was Elder Qian that had been serving Jia Huairen. It is an impressive feat to ensure that Jia Huairen entered a cultivation sect and knocked open the gate of immortality, considering that it was achieved by a dog demon."


    Yi Xiao fell silent when she heard that.


    Woosh.


    The duo reached the mountaintop and saw Uncle Qian sitting there.

 36 Let me give it a try firs

    Chapter 36: Let me give it a try first


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Uncle Qian was sitting peacefully against a boulder.


    "Perhaps what I have done all these years have actually harmed Huairen."


    "I hope that my death will jolt him to his senses."


    "It''s good anyway. In a place like Heightened district, a cultivator would have no trouble surviving in any way."


    "I''m about to die so there''s no need for me to think any further. In the future, Huairen will have to depend on himself."


    Scenes began arising in Uncle Qian''s mind.


    They were the most precious and unforgettable memories in his life. They were also the reason why he had stayed loyal to the Jia family.


    ¡­


    It was late autumn with a heavy downpour.


    A newborn puppy was trembling beside a wall as it was drenched by extremely cold raindrops. A scholar walked over with an oilskin umbrella and discovered the puppy. He immediately carried it and placed it in his arms to warm the puppy. "Hey, does no one want a little fellow like you too? I have also been chased out and have no food to eat. Little fellow, you sure are smart to burrow towards my chest."


    ¡­


    The scholar lived an abject life. Having studied all his life, he failed to even become a county scholar. The yellow-furred dog was also very thin. However, they relied on each other for companionship.


    ¡­


    One night, Empyrean Meteoric Ambrosia scattered across the mortal world.


    A thin and frail old dog received a sliver of the Empyrean Meteoric Ambrosia, which led to the lunar essence cleansing its body, giving it sentience and making it a demon. From then on, the man and dog had their lives changed.


    From then on, there was the Jia Manor.


    There was the old servant Uncle Qian, and Jia Huairen.


    ¡­


    "Master, I''m coming to accompany you." Uncle Qian muttered to himself. "I can''t take care of Huairen anymore but I can finally accompany you."


    Amid his incoherent thoughts, Uncle Qian felt two figures appear beside him.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sighed when they saw Uncle Qian.


    "There''s no way of saving him." Qin Yun could tell at a glance that Uncle Qian''s injuries were extremely heavy. If he were human, he would have long been dead. Even for a demon, Uncle Qian had lasted this long because of his willpower.


    Uncle Qian opened his eyes with great difficulty and said hoarsely, "Young¡­ Young Master Qin, Miss Yi. I have a request that I wish you help me."


    "Elder Qian, please speak," said Qin Yun.


    "After I die, I wish that to be buried me beside my master''s grave. Heightened district''s Jia Manor graveyard is easy to find. I''ll be troubling you." Uncle Qian''s voice was weak and thankfully, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had extraordinary perception, allowing them to clearly hear what he said.


    Yi Xiao said, "Rest assured."


    Uncle Qian''s dog demon face revealed a smile as he felt relieved of his burden.


    With his will gone, he relaxed his mind and felt his body turn ethereal. The world in front of him turned white.


    Vaguely, an elderly scholar''s figure appeared in front of him, smiling.


    Uncle Qian transformed into a large yellow-furred dog as it scampered over.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun saw the seated Uncle Qian''s aura rapidly dissipate, and quickly, its body returned to its true form. It was a large yellow-furred dog with severe injuries with parts of his body missing.


    "Only today have I witnessed how loyal demons can be," said Yi Xiao.


    "Demons can be good as well." Qin Yun nodded. Having roamed the world, he had definitely seen more than one good demon. There were loyal humans; likewise, there were loyal demons. Towards the loyal, Qin Yun respected them deep down from his heart.


    "I once even suspected that he would collude with Green Tooth Mountain''s demons." Yi Xiao felt a little ashamed.


    "It''s hard to tell without seeing it yourself. I had only heard of stories about him in the past. This is my first time making contact with him." Qin Yun stood at the mountaintop and looked at his surroundings. "Let''s not think about this. Let''s deal with the demons first."


    "Yes." Yi Xiao''s heart tightened as she looked seriously at her surroundings.


    There were large numbers of demons gathered around them in the distance. There were also many demons flying high in the air. White Tiger was glaring at them hostilely at a high altitude. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao could tell at a glance that including the nearly hundred demons in Mist Lake Valley, the surrounding demons added to almost five hundred!


    ******


    By Lanyang river''s bank, there was a large manor that was surrounded by woods. There were multiple pavilions in the compound, with tiny bridges and flowing streams of water, trees and rockery, and many beauties. It truly looked like an otherworldly paradise.


    However, this was the residence of the great demon, Water God that had terrorized Grand Dominance County for two centuries, leaving even the imperial government helpless against him.


    Water God appeared thin and frail. He wore a silvery-white robe and stood by a lake with his hands to the back.


    He had long eyebrows and a cold stare. His cheeks were thin as his cold eyes looked into the distance. "There has not been any news from Green Tooth Mountain. The thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit should be ripening this month. I may not need it but I can sell it to those who want it for a high price! Grand Dominance County''s present county governor is rather old. He must definitely want the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. He will probably scheme to rob the spirit fruit but with Junior Brother White Tiger present, there won''t be any mishaps."


    Although he had guessed that Grand Dominance County''s county governor would attempt to rob it from him, Water God still refused to go personally.


    "If I were to go to Green Tooth Mountain, it might be a trap laid by the Daoist or Buddhist sects, or even the imperial government. A Connate Golden Core expert might suddenly appear to obliterate me." Water God sneered. "Hmph, don''t even think of luring me there no matter how great the enticement."


    Over the past two centuries, Water God had indeed committed countless atrocities.


    He had caused immense suffering to countless people in Grand Dominance County. Qin Yun''s family had also suffered in the past.


    Neither could many cultivator experts tolerate him nor did the imperial government. They had laid traps, hoping to entice Water God deep into solid land and away from the river so as to vanquish him! However, Water God never fell for the traps. No matter how great the enticement, they failed to cause him to waver. He would escape into the river the moment he felt something amiss. He definitely had the capabilities to support his claim of being a water god. In the water, humans had no means to deal with him at all.


    "After trying to ambush me so many times, the humans must have given up trying to lure me."


    "With Junior Brother White Tiger there, the spirit fruit will definitely be mine. When the time comes, I''ll split some of the benefits with him, leaving the rest mine. I will then be able to exchange for more treasures." Water God had already decided who to sell the spirit fruit to.


    ¡­


    At the mountaintop cliff beside Mist Lake Valley.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood there. The closer they were to Mist Lake Valley, the more demons there were. Although about three hundred demons had rushed here in a short amount of time, including the nearly hundred demons originally situated in Mist Lake Valley, there were close to five hundred demons.


    "Brother Qin, what do we do now? Shall we forge a path out in that direction?" Yi Xiao asked.


    "There are nearly five hundred demons in the vicinity. Moreover, there will be constant swarms of demons rushing here. White Tiger is still watching us from the air." Qin Yun said, "With so many demons, there''s not much point to trying to forge a path out."


    "We can join forces and risk it. Both of us have life-saving treasures. I believe we can forge a path out." Yi Xiao''s eyes were sharp and fierce. Against such a situation, the only thing they could do was risk their lives!


    "Let me give it a try first. If it doesn''t work, we can try forging a path out." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission.


    Yi Xiao was taken aback and was perplexed. "Brother Qin, a try?"


    "Miss Yi, just focus on protecting yourself. Also, please watch this axe. Do not let the tiger demon get it." Qin Yun released the axe and tiger claw.


    "Don''t worry, I have a Dharma treasure with me that can protect my surroundings." Yi Xiao said as she stepped on the axe. "The tiger demon has no chance of coming close. However, Brother Qin, what methods do you have? How can you defend against so many demons with a single sword?"


    White Tiger was commanding the winds and flying high above while glaring at them. As he saw demons gathering over from various parts of Green Tooth Mountain. He was beginning to feel extremely confident.


    He was in no hurry to attack. There were already nearly five hundred demons in the vicinity. If time dragged on, there would be more demons gathered. Their advantage would only grow.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun suddenly moved.


    His figure darted to an empty plain a hundred feet away. There was nothing around him.


    "What is this sword immortal doing?" White Tiger was taken aback. "By being beside the cliff, the demons will find it slightly troublesome to attack him. By standing in such an open area, the demons can attack him from every direction. Isn''t he just committing suicide?"


    "Brother Qin, what methods do you have?" Yi Xiao was alarmed when she saw the turn of events. She immediately transmitted her voice with concern. "If you have no confidence, let''s storm our way out together."


    "Just watch."


    Qin Yun transmitted his voice.


    Following that, Qin Yun surveyed the dense swarm of demons around him. He spoke with a resounding voice, "Don''t you want to kill me? Here I am! Standing here for you to kill me! I''ll consider all of you capable if you can even harm me the slightest."

 37 Qin Yuns Strongest Move

    Chapter 37: Qin Yun''s Strongest Move


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    High in the sky, White Tiger was dumbstruck.


    The demons in all shapes and sizes that were scattered everywhere, with some looking very ugly, were also dumbfounded. They included wolf, pig, ox, bear, scorpion, snake, worm demons, etc. Some of them could fly in the sky, some could burrow underground, while others could swim in water. At that moment, these demons were first feeling dumbfounded before feeling enraged. Many demons'' eyes turn red immediately.


    Some demons had low intelligence, to begin with. The moment their eyes turned red, they were capable of anything.


    "Kill him!"


    "How dare he act arrogant?"


    "To think he dares acts arrogant in front of us." The demons roared.


    High in the sky, White Tiger glared down at Qin Yun. His golden eyes burned with fury as he immediately roared, "Go, surround and kill him!"


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The demons shouted in unison as they swarmed over from every direction like a tumultuous tsunami. There were some demons who burrowed underground while there were flying demons in the sky that swooped downwards. Although they knew that the human cultivator was powerful, the demons grew braver when their numbers reached a critical mass! A cultivator that had yet to reach the Connate realm could be easily vanquished by their collective efforts no matter how powerful he was.


    Qin Yun''s words from before had left the demons furious. It was an act of provocation!


    "With so many of us around, you dare taunt us instead of begging for mercy?"


    "Rip him apart!"


    "Eat him!"


    "I want a piece of his flesh!"


    Many of the demons appeared to be in a frenzy. When all the demons charged forward, they truly seemed emboldened as murderous intent filled the skies.


    It would be quite an astounding sight if hundreds of ordinary humans charged together. Thus, with hundreds of demons of all shapes and sizes, the commanding presence was just too terrifying! High in the sky, even White Tiger''s eyes lit up. As for Yi Xiao, who was using her Dharma treasure to conjure three blurry layers of light barriers around her, she felt her heart tighten. "What means does Brother Qin have?"


    Qin Yun stood his ground and waited quietly.


    "Kill him!" White Tiger roared excitedly.


    "Phew¡ª" Almost instantly, more than twenty demons swarmed forward from every angle. Furthermore, there were a few flying demons that swooped down from the sky. There were also demons that attacked from beneath Qin Yun''s feet.


    Qin Yun''s eyes flashed as he instantly unsheathed his sword.


    A sword flash flared!


    "He''s really relying on one sword?" Qin Yun''s confidence of facing the enemies had convinced Yi Xiao that he had a powerful technique. "No matter how powerful a sword is, how can it defend against all the demons?"


    Yi Xiao began preparing to cast Five-elemental Lightning Dharma at any time so as to save Qin Yun.


    "Haha, he thought too highly of himself. He overdid it." White Tiger was even more excited when he saw the situation.


    "Eat that human cultivator."


    "Rip him apart!"


    "Eat him!"


    There were all sorts of crazy roars.


    One had to know that every demon had either fangs, or sharp claws, or even special attributes like poisonous stings and tail stingers. But suddenly, the demon roars gradually weakened because they realized in horror that when they approached him, Qin Yun''s surroundings was filled with a lustrous sword beam. It was in a contiguous fashion that completely enveloped him.


    Qin Yun had received forty to five attacks. Typically, no matter how strong one''s sword techniques were, there was no way to defend against so many attacks with a single sword.


    The sword beams had formed into a ball!


    It left no holes.


    Any attack was blocked by the blurry sword beams. And the demons that approached were slew by the blurry sword beams. With a flash of the sword beam, no visible injuries appeared on the demons'' bodies but in fact, they were already split into two! Some had their heads beheaded, some had their hearts or vital organs sliced through¡­ It was so fast that there was no way of blocking it.


    Three, five, ten, twenty¡­


    The ball of sword flashes around Qin Yun was like a meat grinder. Any demon that approached him would immediately collapse to the ground and reveal their true forms. Most importantly, not a single demon managed to penetrate the lustrous ball. Qin Yun was not injured at all.


    White Tiger and Yi Xiao watched in a daze at the scene happening far away. They were momentarily rendered speechless.


    "Dharma treasure, it has to be a flying sword Dharma treasure. That flying sword has extremely powerful defensive capabilities."White Tiger glared. "How can a junior that has yet to enter the Connate realm be given such a powerful flying sword?"


    He had heard of legends that speak of powerful flying sword Dharma treasures. There were some swords that could form thousands of sword beams.


    "Attack!"


    White Tiger indignantly launched his nine Wind Thunder Rocks.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The nine Wind Thunder Rocks expanded upon contact with the wind. About the size of human heads, they tore through the air from a high altitude like nine meteorites! All of them were headed for Qin Yun.


    "Peng!" "Peng!" "Peng!" ¡­ When the nine Wind Thunder Rocks struck the lustrous ball around Qin Yun, they rebounded. None of the nine enjoyed any exception. Even the runic patterns on the Wind Thunder Rocks'' surface trembled.


    White Tiger stared at Qin Yun, as his pupils burst with anger. "How can there be such a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure? Furthermore, it''s in the hands of a junior?"


    Yi Xiao maintained her bracelet''s protection. Upon seeing the scene, she could not help but feel astounded. "No wonder Brother Qin was so confident. I never expected him to have such defensive measures. This should be some property of the flying sword? Its offensive strength is great and it''s also extremely impressive at defense. What grade is that Dharma treasure? Could it be a seventh-grade Dharma treasure? Is it Spirit Treasure Mountain or Sword Tower? He has not reached the Connate realm but he has been bestowed such a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure? Isn''t he afraid that the other disciples in his sect will find it unfair?"


    "Or is it possible that Brother Qin is just too impressive, making him stand out from his peers so much that his elders gave him such a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure?" Yi Xiao guessed.


    ¡­


    The demons that were frenetically attacking Qin Yun began with tumultuous momentum but as large numbers of them died, with them not even being able to touch Qin Yun, they began to feel fear from a lack of hope. They too were afraid to send themselves to their deaths en masse!


    One by one, they began to retreat backward.


    Once one retreated, more naturally followed. Other than the dumb ones that had been slain by Qin Yun, no demon dared to approach him. The demons retreated a distance away as they looked at Qin Yun with fear.


    With divine sword in hand, Qin Yun scanned the surroundings demons and said loudly, "Come on here if you want to die!"


    His voice echoed through the mountains but not a single demon dared to say a word.


    "Hmph!" Qin Yun sneered as he turned his head and walked towards Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao revealed a look of delight. When Qin Yun came close, she said with a voice transmission, "Brother Qin, I''m impressed. I never expected you to have such means."


    "Miss Yi, haven''t you considered where I come from?" Qin Yun replied with a voice transmission.


    "Where? The northern borders?" Yi Xiao was stunned.


    "Yes, the northern borders." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "To survive for three years in such a place, what''s most important is life preservation, not the killing of enemies."


    He had stayed in the battlefields of the northern borders, engaging in life-and-death battles before he created the Misty Rain Sword! That was how he gained insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    During the creation process of the Misty Rain Sword, he paid most attention to dealing with a siege! His defense needed to be impregnable. And eventually, he figured out Misty Rain Sword Intent. It naturally was able to push his defense to his limits.


    There were many kinds of sword intent.


    However, the Misty Rain Sword Intent that Qin Yun figured out was not best at killing but to defend and preserve his life!


    Misty Rain Sword Intent was his best life-preserving move. It was also the attack that was imbued with the true essence of Misty Rain Sword Intent. He named it Cyclic Sword Flash.


    Once he used all his strength, creating a continuous sword intent, even to the point of the sword flashes enveloping his entire surroundings, it could form Cyclic Sword Flash! It did not expose any flaws.


    But such a Cyclic Sword Flash¡­had an expenditure which was more than a hundred times the typical sword technique. It was akin to how ordinary people could walk slowly and cover a hundred kilometers but run out of stamina by the time they ran three to six hundred meters at full speed. By the same logic, Cyclic Sword Flash was extremely powerful but its only weakness was that it drained a lot of Quintessential Essence.


    Although Qin Yun had only used it for a short moment, he had managed to kill more than sixty demons!


    "Yes, life preservation. So what Brother Qin is best at is life preservation. He''s least afraid of being besieged." Yi Xiao revealed her delight.


    Qin Yun transmitted his voice. "Next, I''ll be telling you something but do not reveal your thoughts. Continue maintaining that look of pleasant surprise. My attack that attacked en masse drains a great deal of Quintessential Essence. Now, I have less than thirty percent of it left."


    Yi Xiao maintained her expression of ''pleasant surprise''. However, she said with a voice transmission, "What? It''s a life preservation method of the flying sword Dharma treasure, yet it demands so much of your Quintessential Essence?"


    "But in my opinion, the demons have been startled from fear." Qin Yun replied with a voice transmission.


    "So, Miss Yi, we have to put on a good act."


    Qin Yun sheathed his sword and lifted Uncle Qian''s corpse over his shoulder. In one hand, he held the axe, and in the other, he held the tiger claw.


    "If you want to die, come on over!" Qin Yun''s swept his glance at the surrounding demons. His voice was filled with bloodlust as it echoed throughout the mountains.


    The demons were shuddering in fear. None of them dared to proceed forward.


    Qin Yun looked up at White Tiger. He laughed out loud and said, "Tiger demon, thank you for this axe of yours. Unfortunately, there''s too little fur and skin on this tiger claw. If you come down, I''ll give you one strike, and I''ll have more fur and skin."


    "Hmph!" White Tiger clenched his teeth. However, with him losing a claw and having only one axe, White Tiger, who had also been struck by a divine lightning spell, did not have the courage to descend. He was afraid that he would truly die under the sword immortal''s hand.


    "Hmph. Let''s go." Qin Yun glanced at White Tiger before leading Yi Xiao away.


    Although the mountain path was difficult, they scaled it quickly like it were flat ground.


    "Walk freely. After scaring them, they would not dare make a move." Although there were many demons surrounding them in the distance, Qin Yun appeared extremely calm while he transmitted his voice to Yi Xiao.

 38 Kunlun Prefectures Yi family

    Chapter 38: Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao''s disposition was considered outstanding among her cultivator peers. However, she could not help but feel nervous when she was stared at by numerous demons. She knew that both she and Qin Yun no longer had much Quintessential Essence. They had only managed to intimidate the demons.


    "Is he not nervous at all? Is there no panic?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun, who was walking beside her. At that moment, he was walking calmly. He was even scanning the demons around him, as though he was a hunter watching his prey. It left the demons shuddering in fear.


    Yi Xiao discovered the differences between Qin Yun and her junior and senior brothers.


    Her male peers were also disciples of the Divine Firmament Chapter, one of the three sacred Daoist lands. Those that could enter were either extremely talented and were brought back by sect experts who toured the mortal world, or they had extraordinary talent who came from top families. Therefore, they had a pride that came from being a sacred land disciple.


    However, Qin Yun appeared normal before coming to Green Tooth Mountain. He had the typical bearing of a disciple from a top sect but in the face of life and death, he showed great heroic spirit! It left Yi Xiao impressed.


    "Perhaps, this is obtained from three years in the northern borders." Yi Xiao thought to herself.


    ¡­


    The duo walked alongside each other and was leaving the area.


    White Tiger watched them from high up in the sky. He clenched his teeth but did not pursue them.


    "To think that I encountered two disciples of top sects in a place like Grand Dominance County!? Ignoring the fact that one can conjure divine lightning spells, the other sword immortal is too powerful. His flying sword is at least a seventh-grade Dharma treasure! Ridiculous!" White Tiger looked at his left arm. His claw was gone and he had lost an axe. To gather that many rare materials was very difficult.


    Some materials were hard to buy even with gold and silver.


    For example, Astral Patterned Steel was a controlled commodity by the imperial government! The Frostmuster Spirit Liquid that Qin Yun was in need of was found deep in the northern seabed. Cultivation experts might not necessarily find it by going to the bottom of the sea. They were found by chance while underwater. It was not worth it to deliberately search for it.


    The more valuable the materials, the harder it was to find.


    For example, the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit was something with a price but impossible to buy. At what price did the county governor pay to commission Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Jia Huairen and his servant to retrieve it for him? Furthermore, with such great danger, if not for Qin Yun and Yi Xiao being strong, there was no way for them to obtain the spirit fruit.


    "I have to think of a way to get back my axe." White Tiger pondered. "How do I get it back? Senior Brother Water God''s strength is above mine but due to the atrocities he has committed, he does not dare leave the river. None of the other fellow disciples would dare enter the county city either."


    "Is my axe gone just like that? No, no, no. I have to find Senior Brother Water God. Having suffered this loss, I can''t let him just watch idly!"


    Immediately, White Tiger flew towards Mist Lake Valley and retrieved the items he had left in the house, such as his beloved portrait, incense cauldron, etc. Then, he flew towards Water God''s manor.


    When the gathered demons saw White Tiger fly away, they heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Where did such a powerful cultivator come from!? That divine lightning from just now gave me the frights. The lightning struck the daylights out of even King White Tiger."


    "That swordsman was even stronger! He was on par with King White Tiger originally. But after King White Tiger was struck by the divine lightning, he managed to cleave off King White Tiger''s claw and even took away his axe."


    "He was really powerful. Even with so many of us attacking him, none of us could touch even his clothes. The ones that were close to him were all killed. More than sixty died in a blink of an eye. How terrifying!"


    "When did such a powerful cultivator come to our Grand Dominance County?"


    The surrounding demons broke out into a flurry of discussion.


    They were shocked and frightened.


    "I know that swordsman. He''s the second young master of Grand Dominance County''s Qin Manor, Qin Yun. I heard that during the Courtesan Belle selection, the three demonic slaves that Water God refined had launched an attack. One of them was a rhinoceros demon whose physique was so strong that it could easily block Demon Annihilation Crossbows. Yet, it was slew by Qin Yun in one strike."


    "Even King White Tiger was injured by him. Who gives a shit about the rhinoceros demon?"


    "He''s a Grand Dominance County local? That will be problematic. In the future, watch out. If you see that Young Master Qin, it''s best you hide. Even with all of us joining forces, it will only mean suicide."


    "What about that female cultivator? That palm lightning was very powerful as well. There was no way of dodging it. Being struck meant death."


    "I don''t know. Such a beautiful female cultivator would be known if she was a local of Grand Dominance County. She must be some foreign cultivator that passed by."


    "It''s good that she''s a foreigner. It''s good that she''s a foreigner."


    The demons lamented and sighed. They began dispersing in groups when they saw other demons that were rushing over.


    "Time to leave, time to leave. Go back." The demons that were heading back shouted loudly.


    "Go back? Didn''t Green Tooth Mountain trumpet just sound?" The demons that had rushed over were puzzled.


    "The battle is over."


    "You guys were lucky to not have encountered that frightening human."


    "Tell me, what frightening human?"


    The demons began chatting about the battle that had just happened. It was a rare battle that Green Tooth Mountain saw in years. From that day on, the legend of the couple, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, began spreading among the Green Tooth Mountain demons. Soon, the demons in Grand Dominance County heard of it.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao rushed down the mountain.


    "Miss Yi, you might not think much of this tiger claw but this axe is made of pretty impressive materials." Qin Yun said, "When we are back at Grand Dominance County, I''ll give half of this axe to you."


    Qin Yun had long coveted the axe.


    It was definitely a treasure needed in cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword. However, the nine hundred kilograms of rare materials were nearly all Metal-elemental! They could be absorbed by his Intrinsic Flying Sword, and in addition to the Frostmuster Spirit Liquid¡­ his Intrinsic Flying Sword had a chance of reaching an eighth-grade Dharma treasure upon completion! However, he did not need nine hundred kilograms.


    "Give half to me?" Yi Xiao took a glance and smiled. "There''s no need."


    "No need?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    Did disciples of a top sect have no lack of treasures?


    "I''m from the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family. I have no lack of treasures," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun was alarmed when he heard that.


    Yi Xiao was considered a disciple of a sacred land. It was nothing much either. After all, even a sacred land talked about fairness. It was impossible they would spend large amounts of resources on a single disciple.


    But the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family was different! It was impressive if a young member of a huge family clan entered a sacred land. Having two was enormous luck. The large family would naturally go to great extents to groom them.


    Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family was powerful. It was ranked one of the top few family clans in the world. Even the imperial government had conferred them royal titles!


    "Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family?" Qin Yun smiled as he looked at Yi Xiao. "Alright then, I''ll accept it brazenly. However, I was really given a shock that Miss Yi comes from the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family."


    "Why? Brother Qin is able to be at ease when facing death but now, you are given a shock?" Yi Xiao glanced at Qin Yun with a smile.


    With Yi Xiao smiling, it stirred Qin Yun''s heart.


    "It just gave me a shock." Qin Yun calmed his emotions and said.


    ******


    Beneath Green Tooth Mountain.


    The county governor, along with hundreds of men, were waiting. Even the county governor had alighted the carriage. He was looking at the mountain range in front of him with a palpitating heart.


    The county governor faltered after standing for too long. After all, he was getting on in years.


    "Father, why don''t you wait inside the carriage?" Wen Chong hurriedly helped his father.


    "I''m fine."


    The county governor looked up and silently looked ahead.


    If Qin Yun and Yi Xiao failed and died, the Divine Firmament Chapter and the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family would not let the matter rest that easily.


    And most importantly, the spirit fruit. It was able to extend twenty years of his life¡­


    "There''s someone!" Commander Fang suddenly said.


    "Who? Is Qin Yun and Yi Xiao coming?" The county governor hurriedly walked over.


    Commander Fang was a Connate False Core realm expert. He could tell at a glance that in the clouds far away, there was a figure running in panic. He was none other than Jia Huairen. His clothes were torn and tattered and he looked miserable.


    Jia Huairen was seized with panic. The only thought on his mind was Qin Yun''s battle with White Tiger and the scene of more than a hundred demons chasing after him with Uncle Qian doing his best to stop them. While escaping, he saw many demons swarming toward Mist Lake Valley! As the demons were rushing with all their might, they were very conspicuous. From afar, Jia Huairen could sense the commotion. It allowed him to carefully flee for his life. Indeed, he had succeeded in escaping.


    However, he had fought twice on the way. He killed one demon and injured another! As all the demons in Green Tooth Mountain were rushing to Mist Lake Valley after hearing the trumpet, none of them had deliberately stopped him.


    "I''ve escaped! I''ve escaped out of Green Tooth Mountain!" Jia Huairen only had that thought on his mind. He had escaped the demon-infested Green Tooth Mountain. The demons'' nest was too terrifying.


    Phew.


    Jia Huairen leaped down and touched his foot on a boulder before jumping down thrice consecutively. Finally, he landed at the foot of the mountain and could at a glance, see the huge convoy in the distance. There, he saw the county governor, Wen Chong, Commander Fang, and company. They were all staring right at him.


    "Lord County Governor!" Jia Huairen felt relieved. He was safe! However, his heart tensed up. After all, he was the only one who escaped.


    Commander Fang bellowed, "Jia Huairen, aren''t you coming over!?"


    Jia Huairen did not dare hesitate as he hurriedly went over.


    "Greetings Lord County Governor and Commander Fang!" Jia Huairen immediately went forward and bowed.


    The county governor looked at Jia Huairen, whose clothes were tattered. "You came out alone? Where''s Qin Yun and Yi Xiao? Also, where''s that demon servant of yours?"

 39 Excitement and Anger

    Chapter 39: Excitement and Anger


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Jia Huairen, what about the rest?" Wen Chong bellowed impatiently.


    When Jia Huairen heard that, he panicked and said immediately, "It had been smooth-sailing entering the mountain. Although there were more than a hundred demons in Mist Lake Valley, we managed to infiltrate it. Young Master Qin also successfully used an invisibility technique to pluck the spirit fruit."


    The county governor was listening carefully to him. The people around him also quietened down.


    "Young Master Qin had managed to pluck the spirit fruit but other than the hundred demons guarding Mist Lake Valley, there was also a terrifying Great Demon White Tiger." Jia Huairen quickly said, "White Tiger''s body expanded to twenty feet in a blink of an eye. His two axes were also massive. He had black winds howling around him. It was terrifying. Young Master Qin and Miss Yi went to battle White Tiger, giving Uncle Qian and I the opportunity to flee for our lives. The both of us would only be a hindrance and not help at all if we stayed."


    "Uncle Qian and I ran for our lives, with more than a hundred demons pursuing us. Uncle Qian helped me block the demons before I managed to escape successfully." Jia Huairen did not dare to hide the truth. "As for what happened after Mist Lake Valley, I have no idea."


    There was a bout of silence.


    The county governor''s heart turned cold. Although he believed that it was highly likely that Great Demon White Tiger would be in Mist Lake Valley, he still had hopes that the tipoff he received was erroneous.


    "Brother Qin and Miss Yi fought White Tiger? How was it?" Wen Chong asked.


    "Young Master Qin was very powerful." Jia Huairen said, "I saw Young Master Qin and White Tiger locked in battle as though they were equally matched."


    "Equally matched?"


    The county governor and Commander Fang exclaimed simultaneously.


    Qin Yun was that strong?


    "Yes, they were equally matched." Jia Huairen confirmed immediately. "I saw it with my own eyes."


    "Then what happened?" The county governor pursued the matter. "What happened to them next?"


    "I had escaped and did not see anything else." Jia Huairen replied softly.


    "You¡ª" The county governor was exasperated.


    Wen Chong immediately tried comforting him. "Father, Brother Qin and White Tiger were equally matched which means it''s likely that they can escape."


    However, Commander Fang said with a heavy tone, "Green Tooth Mountain has more than a thousand demons. They would be more formidable than a single Great Demon White Tiger."


    The county governor fell silent.


    He casually waved his hand and Jia Huairen immediately retreated to a corner.


    ¡­


    After waiting for a while, the county governor felt a little giddy when he suddenly heard Commander Fang say "It''s Young Master Qin and Miss Yi."


    The county governor felt his body invigorated as his blood seemed to boil. He immediately looked into the distance.


    "They managed to escape?" Jia Huairen, who was standing by a corner, looked up as well. He saw a man and woman that resembled a divine couple elegantly descend the mountain. "Where''s Uncle Qian? Uncle¡ª" Jia Huairen widened his eyes as he saw a dismembered corpse of a large yellow-furred dog hanging over Qin Yun''s shoulder. Throughout his entire life, Jia Huairen had only forced Uncle Qian to reveal his true form to him once when he was a still a child. He knew that Uncle Qian''s true form was a large yellow-furred dog.


    "Uncle Qian." Jia Huairen stood in his spot in a daze. Although he had seen more than a hundred demons surge at Uncle Qian and had expected it when the severely injured Uncle Qian desperately tried to stop them, Jia Huairen still felt an upheaval of emotions when he really saw the corpse.


    Woosh.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao leaped and reached the foot of the mountain.


    As for the county governor, Commander Fang, Wen Chong, and company, they took the initiative to come to them.


    "Young Master Qin, Yi Xiao." The county governor went forward and said with a bow, "I failed to determine that Great Demon White Tiger was there, and nearly caused you perilous despair. It was my fault."


    "Uncle Wen." Yi Xiao said with a smile, "We were entering the demons'' lair so it can''t be helped if there''s an accident. Regardless, Brother Qin and I managed to return alive."


    Commander Fang was looking at the huge axe and tiger''s claw in Qin Yun''s hands. "Brother Qin Yun, what''s this axe and tiger claw?"


    Qin Yun threw them both on the ground. The nine-hundred-kilogram axe fell to the ground with a loud thud that quaked the ground. Only then did Qin Yun say with a laugh, "This tiger claw was cleaved off from White Tiger''s left arm! This axe is also one of White Tiger''s two large axes."


    "A tiger claw cleaved off from White Tiger?" Everyone was dumbstruck when they heard that.


    That was the claw of White Tiger. It was cleaved off?


    "We are lucky to have Brother Qin. I was able to return all thanks to him." Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    "If not for Miss Yi''s divine lightning spell, I would not have been able to defeat White Tiger." Qin Yun said immediately.


    Qin Yun lowered the dismembered dog corpse from his shoulder. Everyone around him had also seen it. Jia Huairen could not help but come forward. Qin Yun lowered his head and said wistfully, "Uncle Qian died in battle to ward off the demons. He was originally severely injured after being struck by the Wind Thunder Rocks. He also desperately tried to obstruct all the demons, killing more than twenty of them in the process. As such, he prevented the demons from crossing the cliff, allowing Jia Huairen to successfully escape."


    Qin Yun looked at Jia Huairen and said, "Jia Huairen, Elder Qian was very loyal to you."


    Yi Xiao said as well, "Before his death, Elder Qian implored us to bury him beside his master''s grave."


    "Definitely. Definitely." The county governor nodded. "On our way back, we can detour to Heightened district and bury this loyal demon."


    Jia Huairen knelt down and caressed the corpse. His eyes were brimming with tears.


    Qin Yun watched by the side.


    He sighed secretly.


    Jia Huairen only cared for himself when escaping. Now, he knew how to tear.


    "Brother Qin." Wen Chong said in hushed tones. "My father and I are very happy that both of you are able to return safely. I''m just curious about the spirit fruit¡­"


    The county governor cast his gaze at Qin Yun as well.


    When Qin Yun heard that, he took out a jade box and handed it to the county governor. "Thankfully, we did not fail the mission."


    The county governor''s eyes immediately widened. He felt his blood boiling as his head buzzed. He stretched his hands out to retrieve it but his hands were trembling.


    Twenty years of longevity!


    Was it really retrieved? Was it retrieved?


    Although his hands were trembling, he managed to hold the jade box in hand. He gently opened it and in it, the red fruit that suffused a purple luster was more mesmerizing than any ruby of greater size. Upon seeing the fruit, the county governor was dazzled.


    ¡­


    While the county governor was in a euphoria, White Tiger was flying in the sky through his command of the winds. He came to Water God Manor that was a hundred kilometers away.


    Inside Water God Manor.


    "Senior Brother, Senior Brother." White Tiger landed straight inside the manor, immediately causing many demon guards to surround the intruder.


    The Water God''s rules were very strict.


    In his manor, male demons followed a regiment of human soldiers. They did not dare disregard the rules. The female demons and many female humans were there to serve the water god.


    "Oh, Junior Brother White Tiger, you came." From afar, Water God appeared. With a stride, he appeared in front of White Tiger.


    White Tiger had transformed back to his human form but he had one hand missing. He placed the axe to one side and immediately said, "Senior Brother, it''s bad! The spirit fruit was snatched away."


    "It was snatched away?" Under Water God''s long eyebrows, his cold eyes filled with bloodlust. "What happened? Also, what happened to your claw?"


    "Two disciples of top sects appeared. One man and one woman." White Tiger said hatefully. "The woman is proficient in Five-elemental Lightning Dharma and was able to channel a spell to summon divine lightning to severely injure me. The man was even stronger. He is a sword immortal! When it comes to true strength, he''s probably not my match but he has an extremely powerful flying sword. I reckon it''s at least a seventh-grade Dharma treasure! As such, we were equally matched. But with that woman''s help, that sword immortal managed to cleave off my claw. Even with five hundred demons besieging him, that flying sword could protect him, preventing him from being injured at all. He even swiftly killed more than sixty demons."


    "I had no other option as well." White Tiger said hatefully. "Senior Brother, do you have any means of helping me get back my axe? It wasn''t easy for me to smith that axe. I lost it because of your request."


    "Who else can you blame for your incompetence?"


    Water God frowned as a cold light shimmered in his eyes. "Disciples of top sects? A flying sword that is at least a seventh-grade Dharma treasure?"


    Large sect?


    Could it be a plot? Was there a trap?


    "This is all because of you." White Tiger said immediately.


    "Junior Brother White Tiger, do you really think I will storm into Grand Dominance City for you?" Water God glanced at White Tiger. His eyes had black flames billowing. It tightened White Tiger''s heart.


    In terms of strength, Water God was indeed stronger than him.


    "Of course, I will compensate you for losing your claw. I will get Master to aid you in growing it back out. I''ll pay for all the recuperation items." Water God took out a huge stack of banknotes. "Here''s two hundred thousand. That''s all I can do for you."


    White Tiger quickly took the banknotes.


    Two hundred thousand taels of silver was not a small sum for Connate realm demons. Even a local emperor like the county governor could barely earn a hundred thousand taels of silver annually.


    "Right, what about the spirit fruit?" Water God grunted and said, "Who took it?"


    "It was taken by the sword immortal." White Tiger felt indignant. "By the way, Senior Brother, do you know the name of that sword immortal? Where does he come from?"


    Water God looked in the direction of Grand Dominance City. He scoffed. "Sword immortal? If I''m not wrong, that sword immortal is the son of Grand Dominance City''s silver-badge constable Qin Liehu, named Qin Yun! I heard from my underlings'' reports that out of the three demonic slaves I sent, the strongest rhinoceros demonic slave had been slain by him with one strike."


    "Qin Yun?" White Tiger nodded and memorized the name.


    "To take away my spirit fruit." The black flames in Water God''s eyes flared incessantly. "To dare cross me, hmph¡­"

 40 Wreaking Havoc

    Chapter 40: Wreaking Havoc


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside the city of Heightened district.


    The county governor and company were standing before the Jia family''s ancestral grave. A new tombstone had been erected which was for Jia Huairen''s Uncle Qian.


    "Uncle Qian." Jia Huairen was dressed in funeral garbs, a way to show his filial piety. He was kneeling in front of the grave with tears brimming in his eyes.


    "A demon served two generations loyally. All he wished after his death was to be buried beside his old master. Such a loyal demon." The county governor said with a sigh.


    Commander Fang nodded. "It''s indeed rare."


    Qin Yun looked at the tombstone in silence.


    "For Jia Huairen to don funeral garbs for Elder Qian, it shows that he has a conscience." Yi Xiao transmitted her voice to Qin Yun.


    "He was raised by Elder Qian after all." Qin Yun replied with a voice transmission. "Not only should he be grateful to Elder Qian for raising him up, he should also be grateful that Elder Qian helped him embark on the path of cultivation. With that attitude of his, Elder Qian must have paid a heavy price for him to knock open the gate of immortality."


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Jia Huairen, although you escaped alone, your loyal demon servant had played a major role in this mission. The Hundred Poisons Blood that I promised you will be sent to you in a few days," said the county governor.


    "Thank you, Lord County Governor." Jia Huairen turned his head to thank the county governor while kneeling in front of the grave.


    "Okay. My condolences."


    After saying that, the county governor turned and led his men away.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao departed together with them.


    Soon, Jia Huairen was the only one left at the grave. It was summer and the winds were scorching hot. Jia Huairen''s expression turned heavy.


    "Uncle Qian, you served my Jia family for decades and enabled me to knock open the gate of immortality. I owe you greatly and I have don funeral garb for you. I will not forget to burn incense and hell money for you every year." Jia Huairen said in a deep voice. "Have a good rest here."


    "Hmph!"


    Jia Huairen stood up and glared at the direction in which the county governor and company had left. The group had long disappeared from the road. "If not for Great Demon White Tiger, Uncle Qian would not have died! Then, a set of Hundred Poisons Blood would have been quite an adequate reward. Now that Uncle Qian is dead, to think that, he, a county governor, still only rewards me with one set of Hundred Poisons Blood? How can one set of Hundred Poisons Blood be comparable to Uncle Qian? Even ten sets of Hundred Poisons Blood is not enough!"


    "Without Uncle Qian, I have to be careful in the future." Jia Huairen''s pupils narrowed. "I have always been overbearing in the past but now, I have to keep a low profile."


    "In terms of strength, the strongest cultivators in Grand Dominance County are the two Connate False Core realm cultivators, Commander Fang and Master Meixia. Now, there are three. The third one has to be that Young Master Qin. His strength is comparable to White Tiger''s. Commander Fang and Master Meixia might not even be his match." Jia Huairen frowned. "If our relationship were extremely good, I would have a better life in the cultivation circles around here."


    "However, I annoyed him because of Yi Xiao. I later realized that she doesn''t even care about me. I had no chance at all. Annoying Young Master Qin wasn''t worth it."


    "Regardless, we had the ties of storming Green Tooth Mountain together! Also, no one knows of Young Master Qin''s displeasure towards me. As long as I appear to have a good relationship with him on the surface, it will be quite a deterrent if it''s known." Jia Huairen pondered as he began imagining things.


    Previously, although he had coveted wealth, sex, and acted arrogantly, he knew it was because he had Uncle Qian backing him.


    Uncle Qian''s strength was nearly invincible in all of Grand Dominance County below the Connate realm! He naturally had what it took to act wantonly.


    But in fact¡­


    He was thirty-six years old after all! For him to be able to knock open the gate of immortality, he naturally wasn''t silly.


    Furthermore, even if Uncle Qian did not know how to raise him, he had hired private tutors. After Jia Huairen entered a cultivation sect, he had been influenced by the other cultivators in the sect. He also looked at the mortal world with the eyes of an immortal. The mindset of cultivators was¡­ to pay attention to strength! For example, Qin Yun did not care if one came from a rich family. In Grand Dominance County, the factions that Qin Yun even thought anything of could be counted on one hand.


    Jia Huairen was also a cultivator. He naturally saw things that way too. This was why he was willing to stay in Heightened district.


    In Heightened District, he was the strongest!


    ******


    The convoy of hundreds of people rushed back to Grand Dominance City. There was one additional horse carriage in the convoy but no one was riding it. There was only a large axe secured within it! The axe was too heavy at nine hundred kilograms. Now, it was being wrapped and secured to the carriage. The tiger claw was also tied to it.


    The convoy proceeded on the main roads.


    Qin Yun suddenly frowned as he looked into the distance. There, he saw a pursuit. Twenty to thirty people were chasing after a family of four.


    A couple was carrying a child each, dashing across the fields.


    "Stop, Brother Er, you won''t get away!"


    "Brother Er, stop running!"


    The twenty to thirty people were shouting as they chased. Burdened by carrying their children, especially with the wife running slower, the couple was about to be caught by the men.


    "Xiao E." The stocky man turned to look at his wife.


    "We can''t get away." The wife felt indignant as well.


    Sou!


    Among the pursuers, a lanky man suddenly sped up and jumped, landing in front of the family of four. He said, "Brother Er, you can''t get away."


    The other men soon surrounded the family of four.


    "Brothers, please spare my family." The stocky man immediately knelt down, kowtowed, and said, "I beg you, please spare my family."


    The wife knelt down with child in her arms. "My fellow relatives and villagers, please spare my family."


    "Brother Er." The lanky man clenched his teeth and said, "We want to spare you too. But if your family were to escape, your child would not need to be sacrificed to the demons. However, there has to be someone in the village that is willing to part with their children, right? Sacrificing a boy and girl as tribute is the rule set by Water God! If we were to violate the rule, our village would be wiped out! Everyone in the village¡ªthousands of us¡ªwill all die."


    The stocky man said with a face covered in tears. "Children are the flesh and blood of their parents. I know it''s Water God''s rule but for him to eat our children, it''s like killing us."


    "I, He Chang''er, cannot watch our children be eaten by the demons. We can''t!" The wife pleaded as well, "Spare us, please!"


    "The village has a draw every year. Whoever gets chosen is the one sacrificed! It is all fated!" The lanky man shouted. "The children chosen every year is not only limited to your family. Brother Er, this is the fate that awaits your children! Make peace with it! If your family isn''t up, other families will have to do it! If the legitimacy of a draw is ignored, how can the others in the village accept it?"


    "You are forcing me." The stocky man got up with teeth clenched.


    "Brother Er, stop your nonsense. You can have another child. Also, your family will not be chosen again in the next ten years." The lanky man shouted.


    The stocky man handed the child to his wife and pulled out a knife from his waist. He growled, "If you approach any further, don''t blame me for being heartless."


    "Still this nonsense."


    The lanky man shook his head as he pulled a knife and instantly proceeded forward.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    In just three strikes, the stocky man was sent flying. He was kicked by the lanky man and fell into the fields.


    "Bring them all back." The lanky man said with a frown.


    "Yes, Captain." The other men immediately stepped forward and tied up the stocky man. Then, they grabbed the wife and led the family of four back.


    "No! No¡ª" The wife was sobbing.


    The two children were wailing loudly.


    The lanky man felt unpleasant from the crying. Looking at the stocky man whose eyes were red, he said with a sigh. "Brother Er, don''t blame me. If you want to blame something, blame your fate."


    "Curse the heavens!!!" The tied-up Chang''er looked up and yelled.


    ¡­


    A distance away, hundreds of people passed by.


    Qin Yun saw this scene and fell silent.


    "Young boy and girl." The horseback Wen Chong muttered. He too did not have a pleasant expression.


    "Water God commits atrocities here. I heard that it forces many villagers in the vicinity to sacrifice young boys and girls as a tribute?" Yi Xiao said, "Every month, large numbers of boys and girls have to be delivered?"


    Qin Yun nodded. His eyes were cold. "Without Water God, the imperial government''s on-site inspection office would be able to reinforce the villages, leading to them having much better days! But with Water God, he has committed atrocities in a two hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius around Langyang River. He also controls more than half the demons in it. Outside the city, the imperial government is no match for him! For the past two centuries, countless villages and their villagers lead dark days!"


    "The imperial government has always been trying to come up with a solution." Wen Chong said immediately. "Daoist and Buddhist Connate Golden Core realm experts have come. However, Water God is extremely crafty. Whenever he notices anything amiss, he would hide into the river. It prevents us from slaying him."


    "It''s been two hundred years." Qin Yun shook his head and did not speak further.


    He was different from Yi Xiao and Wen Chong, who had only read of records from books. Before the age of eight, he lived in the villages.


    ¡­


    When the skies turned dark, the county governor''s convoy finally arrived at Grand Dominance City.


    The city gates had long been closed. But with the county governor, the gates were naturally opened to let the troops in.


    "It''s already very late." The county governor disembarked his carriage and said to Qin Yun. "Young Master Qin, we shall part ways here. You can return to Qin Manor for now. I will invite you again tomorrow. "Also¡­"


    The county governor came close to Qin Yun and whispered, "Young Master Qin, I owe you a big favor for retrieving the spirit fruit. If there''s anything in the future, feel free to approach me. I will definitely do my best to help you."


    "Alright." Qin Yun smiled.


    "Miss Yi, goodbye." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao said with a smile, "I''ll still be staying in Grand Dominance City for a few more days. Brother Qin, you can come to County Governor Manor to look for me if you have the time."


    "Alright."


    The two went their separate ways.


    Qin Yun rode away on a horse. Behind him, there were two County Governor Manor guards in charge of steering a horse to send the huge axe and tiger claw to Qin Manor.

 41 Day to Look forward to

    Chapter 41: Day to Look forward to


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    County Governor Manor.


    "Your lives are on the line if any mistakes are made! Be on full alert!" Commander Fang bellowed.


    "Yes, sir!" The platoon of personal guards was was more vigilant than usual. Outside a quiet chamber stood a platoon of experts. They knew that the county governor had brought a treasure all the way back from Green Tooth Mountain. For him to enter the chamber the moment he returned spelled the importance of the matter.


    Commander Fang walked to a grass patch not far away. He sat down with his legs crossed and closed his mind to meditate so as to defend against any unexpected circumstances.


    In the chamber.


    The county governor had already sat down on a bed before taking out a jade box carefully.


    "A thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. Twenty years of longevity." The county governor''s eyes lit up. Coming from South Hill¡¯s Wen family, he had reached the position of county governor. He enjoyed quite a status in the Wen family, which had no lack of Qi cultivation methods and treasures. However, knocking open the gate of immortality required talent. Although he was extremely wise and had become a high official, his talent for cultivation was considered ordinary. Although someone like Jia Huairen was someone he thought nothing of, Jia Huairen possessed cultivation talent.


    Failing to knock open the gate of immortality meant a lifespan no different from others.


    "I can still live another twenty years. I''ll be able to climb higher and maybe, I can be promoted to a fourth-grade official?" The county governor thought to himself. However, he did not dare dream of getting a third-grade post. The higher the official ranks, the more demanding it became. One''s background, experience, and own strength became extremely demanding. After all, in their rule of the world, what high officials needed to deal with was not the commoners but mainly demons.


    "Kacha." The county governor grabbed the red thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit that suffused a purple luster. He bit at it and immediately it melted in his mouth. As the refreshing liquid flowed down his throat and into his body, it quickly emanated through his entire body. The light refreshing fragrance made every inch of his body erupt in delight.


    His skin was tightening, while his muscles and tendons were trembling.


    They felt numb. The county governor began shivering.


    "Good, good." The county governor did not hesitate. He finished the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit at one go, leaving behind a very intricate fruit core.


    The spirit fruit''s energy caused the county governor''s body to experience changes. His white and dry hair gradually turned luxuriant and a lot of his hair strands turned completely black. There was very little white hair left on him.


    As for his facial skin, the wrinkles smoothened out and there was a glow in his skin. His turbid eyes also turned a lot clearer.


    The county governor felt his body experience a constant set of miraculous changes. He looked down at his hands and arms. His skin and muscles had changed. He could not help but be excited.


    He rushed down the bed and went to a bronze mirror.


    "I¡­" The county governor looked at himself in the mirror.


    He looked like himself twenty years ago.


    Even if he were to compare with Qin Yun''s father, Qin Liehu, they would look to be around the same age.


    "It''s as though I''m fifty again." The county governor frowned as he held his stomach. He had a stomachache as he hurriedly pushed open the door and ran out.


    "Lord County Governor." The guards around bowed. Not far away, Commander Fang opened his eyes but he was momentarily astonished. The county governor had indeed grown younger. He no longer looked like Wen Chong''s father but more like his brother.


    "Prepare some hot water. I''ll be bathing and changing my clothes in a while." The county governor said as he ran.


    "Lord County Governor." Commander Fang stood up.


    "Old Fang, I''ll need to relieve myself." The county governor did not stop in his footsteps.


    Commander Fang smiled when he saw this. "He sure runs fast. The spirit fruit is indeed miraculous. It can make a person twenty years younger in an instant."


    ¡­


    In another wing of County Governor Manor.


    Yi Xiao was sitting before a desk, recounting the experience she had during the expedition to Green Tooth Mountain. She could not help but smile. Following that, she began writing a letter.


    Soon, it was finished.


    "The matter of Green Tooth Mountain is over. Next is what actually matters." Yi Xiao thought to herself. "Once Uncle-Master comes, we can combine forces to rid Water God from this world."


    "Qin Yun''s strength is also extremely high and he hasn''t entered the Connate realm. He will not make Water God overtly wary. Should I invite him?" Yi Xiao pondered.


    Water God was naturally much stronger than White Tiger.


    However, there were many entities in the world stronger than Water God. In the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, any random Elder would be stronger than him. However, Water God was untouchable even to a Connate Golden Core realm expert in a two-hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius around Lanyang River. He was too careful and crafty.


    However, Water God thought nothing of juniors that had yet entered the Connate realm.


    After all, how heaven-defying could one be if one hadn''t reached the Connate realm? It was already pretty impressive to match someone at the Connate False Core realm while being at a lower realm. Being able to kill an ordinary Connate False Core realm demon would have one''s feats extolled to the world. Up to date, Qin Yun had not managed to kill a powerful demon at the Connate False Core realm in a one-on-one battle. As for Water God, he was not what the powerful demons like White Tiger could compare with.


    "Yes, once Uncle-Master comes, I''ll let him make the decision." With the letter in hand, Yi Xiao immediately walked out of the study and got someone in County Governor Manor to deliver it. It was to inform her Uncle-Master that her matter was resolved. They could take action now!


    ******


    Qin Manor. Lanterns were already hung up. Large numbers of guards were patrolling the area with many equipped with Demon Annihilation Crossbows.


    Inside the yard.


    There was a bout of laughter. Qin Yun, his brother, Qin An, and his father, Qin Liehu were sitting together having a chat amid drinks.


    "Yun''er, now that you can match White Tiger, perhaps only Commander Fang and Master Meixia are your equal in Grand Dominance County." Qin Liehu drank a mouthful of wine and beamed. "However, I must say that it''s rather scary thinking about it. Who knew that a trip to Green Tooth Mountain would end up with you encountering Steadfast Mountain County''s Great Demon White Tiger."


    "Brother." Qin An immediately said, "If Water God got White Tiger to guard the spirit fruit, it shows how much importance he thinks of it. Now that you have taken the spirit fruit, Water God will likely bear a grudge."


    However, Qin Liehu said, "There''s no need to worry actually. Water God is different from other powerful demons. Typically, powerful demons like White Tiger would at most be entrenched at one spot, plundering the area. Even the huge axe that Yun''er brought back this time would probably be torturous for him. However, Water God influences the lives of millions of ordinary citizens. They are only safe in the cities. With the lives of millions of citizens under his control and oppression, Water God remains extremely rich despite them being very poor.


    "He''s careful and crafty. He doesn''t expose himself to any weaknesses."


    "He will not empty all his powers at his disposal because of a little hatred." Qin Liehu said. "After all, by angering Yun''er, other than himself, none of the demons under him is Yun''er''s match. He might not be afraid of Yun''er but he wouldn''t easily take action either. However, once he takes action¡­ it probably means he''s assured of success."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Water God is very crafty so in the next few days, the women in the family should not leave the house. Even if they need to leave, they have to bring guards equipped with Demon Annihilation Crossbows along."


    "It''s imperative that we remain careful." Qin Liehu nodded.


    ¡­


    Late into the night.


    Qin Yun was in his compound, where all his servants were forbidden entry.


    "This large axe." Qin Yun placed a mat along the corridor in front of the door. He sat down cross-legged and looked at the huge axe situated in the courtyard. The axe was too large and did not fit inside the house.


    After all, the axe was more than ten feet long. Two of the axe''s dimensions were large as well. Just holding it horizontally was enough to prevent it entry into the house.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun sat on the mat and extended his finger, shooting a golden light out from the tip of his finger. It expanded immediately and rapidly took the shape of a three-inch-long bright, silver sword.


    The three-inch flying sword hovered above the axe.


    With a thought, Qin Yun circulated his cultivation method and directed the Quintessential Essence within the flying sword. Immediately, a lustrous layer suffused the flying sword''s surface as it began to absorb the essence from the axe beneath it. Dots of light flew out and fused with the flying sword. If White Tiger were to know that his axe was being refined, he would definitely be appalled.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    A crack appeared on the surface of the axe. It was deliberately produced by Qin Yun by absorbing the essence from the area so that he could split the axe apart.


    If not, he had no means of splitting such a divine weapon through ordinary means.


    "Nice, this axe is nearly all Metal-elemental. Some of these materials haven''t been found by me either." Qin Yun sensed that his Intrinsic Flying Sword was cheering. Large points of light were rising and the dense points of light resembled fireflies.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was best at absorbing Metal-elemental objects.


    It was willing to absorb even scrap metal.


    However, it was a lot more picky with items of the Water, Fire, Wood, and Earth elemental attribute. For a Water-elemental item, it had to be at the very least Frostmuster Spirit Liquid. Only Metal-elemental items could be absorbed in large quantities without any rebuffs. Especially with the large axe, there were some rare materials that it had never absorbed before. The Intrinsic Flying Sword absorbed those at naturally faster speeds.


    The amount absorbed by the sword on the first absorption would be great.


    "Hum¡ª" The entire axe was being absorbed by the Intrinsic Flying Sword. Seven large cracks appeared on its surface, splitting the axe into several small pieces. Even the axe''s hilt split into three pieces.


    The seven cracks were a result of the Intrinsic Flying Sword absorbing more than a hundred and fifty kilograms of materials. After that, it could not absorb any further.


    "Many of them have never been absorbed before. The materials that White Tiger gathered are more thorough than what I have gathered." Qin Yun had mixed feelings. "The first absorption has exceeded a hundred and fifty kilograms. But from tomorrow onwards, it will probably only be able to absorb fifteen to twenty kilograms."


    Absorbing the Astral Patterned Steel had been relatively slow because it was a singular type.


    The materials contained within the axe were extremely diverse. By absorbing a bit of everything, it accumulated to quite a hefty amount.


    Following that, the Intrinsic Flying Sword absorbed a tiny amount of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid before ending the day''s cultivation. Clearly, it was much slower absorbing Water-elemental items.


    "With this axe, my Intrinsic Flying Sword might be an eighth-grade Dharma treasure immediately the day it is successfully refined." Qin Yun anticipated the day excitedly. All these years, he had never used a Dharma treasure before! Now, the day to look forward to his own Intrinsic Flying Sword was approaching.

 42 Uncle-Master isnst Coming

    Chapter 42: Uncle-Master isn''t Coming


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a blink of an eye, nearly half a month had passed since the battle at Green Tooth Mountain.


    That day, a middle-aged Daoist came outside County Governor Manor. The guards outside had seen him from afar and were very wary.


    "Please inform Miss Yi that someone from the Great Unity Sect wishes to seek an audience." The middle-aged Daoist said with a smile.


    "Miss Yi?"


    The guards exchanged looks.


    "Wait here." A guard quickly entered the manor to pass the information. Yi Xiao was living in a rather elegant side compound inside County Governor Manor.


    There was a layer of ice formed inside the compound, which rapidly melted under the scorching summer sun, causing the area to emanate coldness. Yi Xiao, who was dressed in a light-blue dress, was sitting in a yard, reading leisurely.


    "Miss Yi." The guard said politely outside the yard, "There is a middle-aged Daoist claiming to be from the Great Unity Sect who wishes to seek an audience with you."


    "Someone from the Great Unity Sect?" Yi Xiao revealed a happy look but she suddenly frowned. She asked, "He looks like a middle-aged Daoist?"


    "Yes, a middle-aged Daoist." The guard responded immediately.


    Yi Xiao frowned but said, "Allow him passage."


    "Yes." The guard retreated respectfully.


    Yi Xiao sat at her spot puzzled. "Strange, Uncle-Master should have a head of white hair, so why is it a middle-aged Daoist? Is it not Uncle-Master?"


    Soon.


    The middle-aged Daoist was led to the yard''s entrance. The moment he saw Yi Xiao, he politely said, "Greetings, Senior Sister Yi. I''m Tu Yu from the Great Unity Sect."


    The Great Unity Sect could be said to be a second-tier cultivation sect, and one of the subsidiary sects of the Divine Firmament Chapter, which itself was one of the three sacred Daoist lands. Disciples of a subsidiary sect and the disciples of the Divine Firmament Chapter enjoyed completely different statuses. If they shared the same seniority in the hierarchy, the disciples from the subsidiary sect had to address all Divine Firmament Chapter disciples as senior brother or senior sister, regardless of their age.


    Even if they were from a higher generation, Yi Xiao just needed to address the person as Uncle-Master or Aunt-Master. However, they, as disciples of a subsidiary sect, would not dare flaunt themselves in front of disciples that hailed from a sacred land.


    Subsidiary sects typically tried their best to curry favor with the sacred lands!


    Divine Firmament Chapter was most famous for its Lightning Dharma.


    As for the subsidiary sect, Great Unity Sect, it was well known for its Dharma methods of Physical Establishing Sage. By cultivating the body to a fascinating stage, one could have bodies stronger than demons. However, the entities with the highest Physical Establishing Sage in Great Unity Sect were at best at the Connate True Core realm. Therefore, they were only considered a second-tier sect. To be a first-tier sect, there had to be a Connate Golden Core expert holding down the fort! Shu Prefecture''s Sword Tower was one example.


    "Why didn''t Uncle-Master come?" Yi Xiao sat there and said in a solemn tone.


    "My master was roaming the world and immediately returned to the Great Unity Sect after receiving the letter from the Divine Firmament Chapter. On the way back, he encountered a Connate realm tree demon wreaking havoc. The tree demon had countless roots that could drain people of their flesh and blood, reducing them to a layer of skin. There were many humans that died under the hand of the tree demon. Master was enraged and engaged in a massive battle with it. Finally, he slew the tree demon but he had one leg cleaved off and suffered serious physical injuries."


    The middle-aged Daoist immediately continued, "Senior Sister Yi, after my master received your letter, he immediately sent me to apologize to you. Master needs at least a year or two to grow back his leg."


    "This is my master''s handwritten letter." The middle-aged Daoist took out a letter and handed it to Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao''s expression was frigid as she took the letter over.


    "Senior Sister, Master is rather ashamed for spoiling your plans as well," said the middle-aged Daoist.


    "Uncle-Master was doing it to slay demons." Yi Xiao said, "That Connate realm tree demon was wreaking havoc wantonly. Its countless roots are powerful and typical Connate False Core cultivators would not even dare approach. Uncle-Master had managed to slay it at the risk of his life. I''m awed by his feat, so how could I be angry? Alright, I understand. You can leave."


    The middle-aged Daoist left respectfully.


    Yi Xiao sat there and was in a bad mood.


    "Why did this happen?" Yi Xiao turned extremely anxious. "Uncle-Master is seriously injured¡­ he can''t help me at all."


    "Water God is overly crafty and careful. Water God would be extremely wary if a Connate False Core cultivator were to come for it. It would be by the river and would jump into it the moment it notices something amiss." Yi Xiao thought to herself.


    After all, there were some Connate False Core realm experts that were very outstanding.


    For example, sword immortals, well known for their combat prowess, had top heritage and an Intrinsic Flying Sword that had formidable strength. Connate False Core sword immortals usually could match typical Connate True Core cultivators. Some were even more monstrous that it would not be surprising that they could directly kill those at the Connate True Core realm.


    Therefore¡ª


    Once Water God realized that a Connate False Core cultivator approached, it would not stay far away from the river.


    It was very careful¡ªthe main reason why it could live this long.


    "My Uncle-Master cultivates in the Physical Establishing Sage to an extremely profound level. However, due to him being at the advanced age of hundred and thirty-four, he has not been able to break through to the Connate realm. His physical cultivation can match White Tiger''s. With a Dharma treasure in hand, his spear arts are even more profound. His strength is even stronger than White Tiger''s. Even if Brother Qin were to compare with Uncle-Master, he is still a little too tender." Yi Xiao shook her head. "In my Divine Firmament Chapter and all the subsidiary sects, the Postnatal realm cultivator best at melee combat is Uncle-Master."


    "Without him helping me, what do I do?"


    Yi Xiao frowned.


    Killing Water God was a very dangerous mission, to begin with. After taking on the mission commissioned by the Divine Firmament Chapter, there were seniors in the sect that had persuaded her against it but she had persisted on completing the mission.


    Connate realm cultivators could not take on the mission as Water God would not take the risk.


    On the contrary, Water God would think of means to slay incoming cultivators that had yet to enter the Connate realm. After all, if he were afraid of that, Water God, would find himself overtly cowardly. And in the past two centuries, there had been cultivators below the Connate realm that attempted to deal with Water God. Either they barely escaped with their lives or they were eventually killed by Water God.


    "To go or not to go?"


    "If I were to go, I need a cultivator adept at melee combat to aid me."


    "I can only seek Brother Qin''s help." Yi Xiao thought for a moment and decided to proceed on!


    "Although Brother Qin''s strength is inferior to Uncle-Master''s, he has quite powerful life-preservation means. By giving him some Dao talismans, he should be able to hold back Water God." Yi Xiao did not have the luxury of time to bother with the details. She immediately left County Governor Manor and headed for Qin Manor.


    ¡­


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun was practicing calligraphy in his room. Doing so also honed his sword techniques.


    "Second Young Master, Second Young Master." A servant shouted from outside, "A particular Miss Yi wishes to meet you."


    "Miss Yi? Didn''t I go to County Governor Manor a few days ago to see her? Why is she here for me? This is the first time she''s coming to my place, right?" Qin Yun put down the brush and immediately headed outside. It was very rare for women to pay a visit to someone''s residence but of course, cultivators did not bother with the way mere mortals thought of them.


    At the manor entrance, Qin Yun saw a woman in a light-blue dress standing outside.


    "Miss Yi, what brings you here? You caught me unprepared." Qin Yun said as he welcomed her with a smile.


    "What preparations are needed?" Yi Xiao turned around and smiled. Following that, she entered Qin Manor under Qin Yun''s invitation.


    "Yun''er, you have a guest?" Qin Yun''s mother, Changlan walked over with her maidservants.


    Yi Xiao immediately removed her Hypnotizing Spell that affected mortals. By walking around with her entrancing beauty, she would attract attention everywhere.


    However, Yi Xiao did not wish to influence Qin Yun''s mother with her Hypnotizing Spell. It was disrespectful. Besides, Qin Yun was standing to the side.


    "This lady here¡­" Changlan had been looking at what seemed to be an ordinary woman but when she turned her head, she could not help but be startled.


    What a beauty!


    It was like a fairy had descended to the mortal world!


    "Who is this lady?" Changlan involuntarily stammered. She had lived all her life in Grand Dominance County and had watched the Courtesan Belle selection but she had never seen someone as fairy-like as Yi Xiao. Comparing the Courtesan Belles with the woman in front of her, the mortal vibes given off by them was just too great. They did not exude that air of immortality at all.


    "Greetings, Madam." Yi Xiao said with a smile. "My name is Yi Xiao. I had previously gone with Brother Qin to Green Tooth Mountain."


    Changlan was immediately enlightened.


    The way Yi Xiao spoke was in no way ordinary. It was too direct. It was because she was a cultivator too.


    "Mother, I have something to discuss with Miss Yi in detail. I won''t be accompanying you." Qin Yun said.


    Yi Xiao arched her body slightly at Changlan before following Qin Yun down a path and headed deep into the manor.


    Changlan watched from afar.


    "Madam, that''s an immortal fairy, right?" One of the maidservants off to the side was still in a daze.


    Changlan rubbed her chest as her eyes lit up greatly. She muttered, "Yi Xiao. Yi Xiao?"

 43 A Wrong Read of Character?

    Chapter 43: A Wrong Read of Character?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao came to Qin Yun''s compound as they sat by a stone table.


    "Brother Qin." Yi Xiao could not help but stare at Qin Yun. "There is something I need to trouble you with. It might be a little dangerous too."


    "What is it? Speak your mind. I, Qin Yun, am not someone who fears danger either," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao smiled.


    "I''m planning on heading out to kill Water God." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "I wish to invite you on this mission."


    "Kill Water God?" Qin Yun''s heart palpitated, his mein changing slightly. "Miss Yi, why are you suddenly talking about killing Water God?"


    Yi Xiao explained, "To be honest, my main goal of coming to Grand Dominance is to kill Water God! It''s just that after Uncle Wen knew of my arrival, he sought my help to retrieve the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit. Now, having gotten the spirit fruit, it''s naturally time to tend to proper matters. In fact, I had taken on a mission within the sect to kill Water God. An Uncle-Master should have aided me but he was heavily injured after killing a Connate realm demon. Therefore, I can only request you for your help."


    "Sect mission?" Qin Yun said, "Are you absolutely confident?"


    If you were absolutely confident¡­


    That would be great. Grand Dominance County has suffered under Water God for too long!


    "How can I be absolutely confident?" Yi Xiao shook her head. "If I had absolute confidence, Water God would not have gone scot-free for more than two centuries."


    "If my Uncle-Master were here, we would have about sixty to seventy percent chance of success." Yi Xiao shook her head.


    "Forgive me for being honest."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "Water God is very crafty. If any cultivation expert at the Connate realm were to head for Water God, he would definitely not stray too far from the river. Therefore, to deal with Water God, it has to be a Postnatal realm cultivator."


    "My Uncle-Master is in the Postnatal realm." Yi Xiao said, "However, he cultivates in the Physical Establishing Sage. His physical body is probably the best among all Postnatal realm cultivators in the world. However, due to him being at the advanced age of more than a hundred years old, he has not been able to break through to the Connate realm."


    "Physical Establishing Sage?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    In the world, there were two most powerful melee combat styles. One school came from Godfiend heritage. Among humans, only the imperial government possessed the profound Godfiend cultivation methods. The imperial government had even established a Godfiend Guard! For example, his father, Qin Liehu might be at the ninth stage of Qi Refinement but he had mastered profound Godfiend techniques. He could match typical cultivators and be capable of killing ordinary lesser demons as well. This gave him the qualification of being a silver-badge constable. It was said that demons also had Godfiend heritage among themselves.


    The second school was the Physical Establishing Sage of Daoist and Buddhist sects. However, most of them were not profound enough. The most famous heritage came from the Primordial Chaos Sect of the three Daoist sacred lands. Its ranking stemmed from the Dharma methods of Physical Establishing Sage.


    It was also the most famous melee combat style. Their bodies could match Dharma treasures! They had immense strength!


    Striking their bodies would only give off sparks!


    A single strike from them would kill you!


    In comparison¡­


    The state of being a sword immortal was only the beginning stages because they were not able to partake in sword kinesis! Therefore, they had to engage in melee combat. A sword immortal''s body could not be compared to existences like Godfiends or Physical Establishing Sages. For instance, in the battle between Qin Yun and White Tiger, White Tiger''s strength was a lot greater than his. He had relied on his Misty Rain Sword Intent to produce an impenetrable defense.


    If he had been hit, just a single strike from White Tiger would probably reduce him to a pulp.


    Sword immortals had all their strength deriving from their Intrinsic Flying Sword!


    There was a saying that a flying sword could accomplish: ''a single sword can destroy all Dharma''. It was not inferior to methods like the Physical Establishing Sage.


    "Yes, Uncle-Master has cultivated for more than a hundred years with excellent spear arts. The divine spear he has in possession is even an eighth-grade Dharma treasure! Because of his Physical Establishing Sage methods, he was designated to complement me according to the sect mission." Yi Xiao said, "However, Uncle-Master is severely injured and cannot help me. Therefore, Brother Qin, I can only ask for your help."


    "Just you and me?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Forget it." Qin Yun shook his head.


    Yi Xiao was taken aback.


    She was rejected? She was rejected in such a direct manner?


    Yi Xiao hurriedly said, "Brother Qin, I need you to hold back Water God. You have your melee combat techniques and I will additionally give you two Length Contraction Charms! With this charm, your speed will be above Water God''s. There''s no problem coming out alive."


    Length Contraction Charms.


    They originated from Length Contraction Spells. Among the Daoist Dharma spells, only Connate Golden Core realm experts could cast them! Therefore, Length Contraction Charms were typically refined through great pains by Connate Golden Core experts. Among the friends that Qin Yun encountered at the northern border, there was only one who had used a Length Contraction Charm before! Length Contraction Charms could contract the distance between two distant points. Even he had not received a Length Contraction Charm before. Now, Yi Xiao was giving him two at a go¡­ Every talisman charm was worth more than the five kilograms of Frostmuster Spirit Liquid. They were extremely precious and could be used to save one''s life.


    "You are already fast. With the Length Contraction Charm and your powerful sword arts, there is no fatal threat at all." Yi Xiao said immediately, "I just want you to accompany this once."


    "If you had Length Contraction Charms, why didn''t you use them at Green Tooth Mountain?" asked Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao shook her head. "This is one of the numerous treasures the sect gave to me after I accepted the sect''s mission! These treasures are meant to use against Water God and cannot be used without reason. After all, I''m just a junior that has yet to enter the Connate. To kill Water God with a sixty to seventy percent chance of success, I obviously will need the synergy of several treasures. Even my Uncle-Master was a part of the original plan. These two Length Contraction Charms were for him. Since he''s unable to come, I can only implore you for your help. The two Length Contraction Charms will also be left to you."


    "Brother Qin, just accompany me this once?" Yi Xiao''s eyes had a pleading look to them.


    However, Qin Yun did not agree. He said, "You are not skilled at melee combat. During a life-and-death struggle, wouldn''t you will be in greater danger than me?"


    He had means to ensure his safety even if he fought Water God in close quarters.


    Once Yi Xiao was too close to Water God¡­ the chance of survival was very low.


    "How can there not be danger when killing powerful demons? Besides, it''s a great demon that has not been vanquished by the imperial government, Daoist and Buddhist sects for over two centuries." Yi Xiao said. "It''s still alright in Grand Dominance City. Outside the city, there are numerous villages. Every village has to offer young boys and girls to Water God. Every year, numerous children are eaten in Grand Dominance County! A large number of humans have been the victims of plunder and torture by the demons. How can we as cultivators be afraid of death? Having sixty or seventy percent chance of success is enough for us to take action."


    "Miss Yi, it''s best you return first." Qin Yun said.


    Yi Xiao was enraged when she heard that. "Return? Don''t tell me you are really afraid of Water God?"


    "I''m a foreigner! The sect and my family clan have urged me not to come but here I am." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "I could not tolerate it when I read the dossier. I knew that death is possible but I still came. You are a local but you don''t dare to go?"


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    She came even if her life was at risk.


    She still wanted to proceed even when her Uncle-Master was unable to help.


    "Sorry for not being able to help you." Qin Yun got up.


    "Qin Yun!" Yi Xiao stood up as well, her eyes suffusing redness. "Such matters can''t be forced but I''m just too disappointed in you. Even without your help, I''ll still ask others for help!"


    Qin Yun frowned. "Why are you so hell-bent on this?"


    "I can''t tolerate it. Every year this drags out, more children will be eaten." Yi Xiao''s eyes were brimming with tears. "I have to go! Furthermore, Water God has already entered the Connate realm for more than two hundred years. According to the information my Divine Firmament Chapter has received, Water God has accumulated a great deal and can enter the Connate True Core realm at any time. He has an ancient water ape bloodline. Once he steps into the Connate True Core realm, together with his crafty nature, there is no way of killing him forever. There will also not be any chance of saving the millions of citizens of Grand Dominance forever!"


    "Now, there is a sixty or seventy percent chance, but once he steps into the Connate True Core realm, it will be impossible forever!"


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Yet, you, Qin Yun, are just watching by the side?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback as he looked at Yi Xiao. "Stepping into the Connate True Core realm at any time?"


    "Yes, according to the attack he did half a year ago, he has amassed sufficient powers to do so. Without a doubt, he can make the breakthrough at any time." Yi Xiao said, "This is why I chose this sect mission. I can not let him off. Qin Yun, accompany me. Let us join forces and vanquish Water God!"


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    Yi Xiao looked disappointed.


    "Three days." Qin Yun said, "Give me three days. Let me think carefully about it. I''ll give you an answer in three days."


    "You still need three days to consider?" Yi Xiao took a deep breath. "Alright, I''ll come again in three days."


    With that said, she turned and left.


    Yi Xiao believed that the danger wasn''t great. With her understanding of Qin Yun, she believed that getting his help was without question. Furthermore, the target was Grand Dominance County''s Water God. There was no way that Qin Yun, as a local, would detach himself from the matter.


    However¡­ she had thought wrong.


    She even felt that she did not understand Qin Yun.


    Her master''s words suffused her mind. "Yi Xiao, you have cultivated on the mountain for many years. You understand too little about the mortal world. This time, when you leave the mountain, remember that the human mind is unpredictable. Make sure not to trust others easily."


    "Did I make a wrong read of character?" Yi Xiao asked herself silently.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched Yi Xiao leave as his face turned slightly pale.

 44 Thirteen Years to Hone a Sword

    Chapter 44: Thirteen Years to Hone a Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    That evening, Qin Liehu returned home.


    "Liehu, Liehu." Madam Changlan hurriedly came forward. Waving her hand to shoo her maidservants away, she whispered, "Do you know of a lady named Yi Xiao?"


    "Yi Xiao?" Qin Liehu was puzzled as he shook his head. "Dear, where did you hear this name from?"


    Changlan said, "She''s the one that went to Green Tooth Mountain with Yun''er."


    "That I know. I heard of a Miss Yi. She''s currently staying in County Governor Manor." Qin Liehu said.


    "Miss Yi came to our place today, alone. She wanted to meet Yun''er." Changlan said, "She apparently has a good relationship with our son but she left shortly. And seriously, Yun''er didn''t even walk her out. Sigh, ever since Yun''er stepped onto the path of cultivation, I began fearing, fearing that he would ignore the matters of the heart."


    There were many cultivators that did not marry and have children.


    "You shouldn''t meddle with Yun''er''s matters." Qin Liehu said with a smile.


    "He''s my son. How can I not be anxious? He''s already twenty-one!" Changlan said.


    "Haha¡­" Qin Liehu laughed.


    At that moment, a person appeared across the winding corridors. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    "Father, Mother." Qin Yun shouted from afar. "I won''t be eating at home today. I''ll be out."


    "Alright." Qin Liehu and Changlan responded.


    They watched as their son left the manor.


    Qin Liehu whispered, "Dear, Yun''er seems to be troubled. Say, he didn''t send Miss Yi back to County Governor Manor today. Did they have a quarrel?"


    "Didn''t you tell me not to meddle in their affairs?" Changlan said with an ambiguous smile.


    Qin Liehu was taken aback as he deliberately coughed twice. "Call me when dinner is ready. I had a tough day at work. I need some rest."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun walked out the manor alone. He walked aimlessly down the streets and when he saw a crowded restaurant, he went to the second floor to get a window seat. He ordered some dishes and wine before eating and drinking alone.


    "I saw Lord County Governor from afar today. He has transformed! He''s a lot younger. He doesn''t even look much older than his son, Young Master Wen Chong."


    "How is it possible!?"


    "An elderly can turn young?"


    "I heard too. The county governor has turned a lot younger."


    "What''s the fuss? I heard that some immortal experts can refine spiritual pills and miraculous medicine that can raise the dead and extend one''s life. Lord County Governor must have eaten some immortal pill."


    At another table on the second floor, there were customers engaging in idle banter. However, Qin Yun heard them clearly.


    Cultivators would occasionally show their skills in the mortal world. As for ordinary people, most of them would actually not make any contact with cultivators; therefore, the stories only turned ridiculous as it spread. Raising the dead? Extending one''s life? Nothing that defied the heavens was easy. Some would even trigger heavenly tribulations as punishment.


    He imbibed the wine alone, one cup after another¡­


    He looked at the people walking the streets outside the restaurant.


    "Thirteen years."


    "It has been thirteen years." Qin Yun drank his wine and muttered softly to himself.


    He could never forget everything that happened when he was eight.


    Water God had been seeking ten young boys that were born on a certain date of pure Yang, and ten girls that were born on a date of pure Yin. They were especially for Water God himself! Typically, many of the children that were delivered by the villages were given to the demons under Water God.


    That day¡­


    His father was originally in charge of the Village Defense Corp. With him being at the seventh level of Qi Refinement, he would lead a pretty good life even if he entered the city. He had fought bloody battles for the village, leading the Village Defense Corp to defend against the nuisances of the lesser demons. Due to the great service he rendered, there was no need for him to participate in the draw. However, when his youngest daughter was determined to be born on a date of pure Yin, the villagers persuaded Qin Liehu to hand over his daughter to prevent the slaughter of the village.


    While facing the demons outside the village who wanted his daughter, and facing the betrayal of the villagers, Qin Liehu went insane. But what else could he do? Eventually, he lost an arm! The entire family was temporarily imprisoned while his daughter was delivered to the demons.


    "Sister! Sister!!!" The eight-year-old Qin Yun cried in tears. His mother was struggling while being taken down. His father had blood bleeding out of his severed arm stump. As his younger sister was being taken away, she kept shouting, "Father, Mother, Big Brother, Second Brother, save me! Save me¡­" His sister''s cries haunted Qin Yun''s dreams for a long period of time.


    Eventually, Qin Liehu and his entire family left the village and entered the city.


    They barely managed to survive in the city. The days were tough and after Qin Liehu''s recovered from his injuries, the setback he suffered made his strength improve. He finally became a constable of Six Fans Gate! Only then did the Qin family manage to settle down in the city. From that day on, they began having better lives. And the eight-year-old Qin Yun turned crazier when it came to Qi Refinement and the practice of swordplay.


    He fervently practiced the way of the sword and was given the nickname of Lunatic Yun at Western Mountain Sword Garden.


    "Thirteen years."


    "I have never forgotten to seek revenge for my sister!" Qin Yun downed a cup of wine. He looked composed but deep in his heart, there was a fury erupting like a volcano, yet it did not blow because he had repressed everything


    On the day he erupted would be naturally the day he was craziest.


    "I left home at the age of fifteen, ambitioning to knock open the gate of immortality and become a sword immortal."


    "Even after all sorts of dangers, I failed to knock open the gate of immortality! I failed! I did not have a master to guide me or any magical item to aid me. I had to rely on myself. Trying to knock open the gate of immortality with top heritage was just too difficult."


    "At the northern borders, I kept pushing myself to the edge of death."


    "Either I die! Or I knock open the gate of immortality!"


    "I finally succeeded."


    "After searching all information regarding Water God¡­ I realized how cunning Water God is and how difficult it is killing him." Qin Yun thought to himself. "As long as a Connate realm cultivator approaches, Water God would immediately enter the river. Furthermore, Water God''s residence is beside the river and nothing can tempt him!"


    "How can one kill Water God with a Postnatal cultivation realm?"


    "According to my original plan, I had to first, grasp Misty Rain Sword Intent, second, master my Intrinsic Flying Sword, and third, cultivate my psyche to formally reach the state of Heaven Man Unity so as to master sword kinesis. Having the three means at one''s disposal is a legend according to the Sword Immortal Legacy. But only then can one kill Water God with a Postnatal cultivation realm." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    All three were very difficult.


    Intrinsic Flying Sword? That was relatively easy. However, typical sword immortals would take decades to nurture one. They had to rely on all sorts of rare treasures to shorten the time! As for Qin Yun, he had the Misty Rain Sword Intent that allowed the nurturing time to be reduced by ten times. Now, he could guarantee success in half a month.


    As for attaining Heaven Man Unity to master sword kinesis? Typical Connate False Core sword immortals could not attain Heaven Man Unity. They had to forcefully use even purer Connate False Core powers to perform sword kinesis. As for Quintessential Essence, he was ultimately a Postnatal cultivator. His Quintessential Essence was not pure enough. Only by attaining Heaven Man Unity was he able to use the worldly powers to perform sword kinesis. His psyche had long reached the peak of the Seamless realm. He could even spread his psyche to a fifty-foot radius. He was about a year away from attaining Heaven Man Unity.


    In fact, Misty Rain Sword Intent was the most difficult. That was because even Connate True Core sword immortals could only grasp an inkling of sword intent.


    Having successfully grasped that inkling of sword intent was the basis that gave Qin Yun hope in slaying Water God!


    ¡­


    "A year."


    "According to my original plan, which is in a year''s time, I will definitely reach the legendary state of a sword immortal. I''ll be a cultivator at the Postnatal realm, having refined my Intrinsic Flying Sword, possessing sword intent, and attaining Heaven Man Unity." Qin Yun thought to himself. "However, according to Yi Xiao''s intelligence, Water God has accumulated so much that he can break through to the Connate True Core realm at any time? If he were to make a breakthrough, how am I to kill him?"


    In order to kill Water God, he had honed his sword for thirteen years. All for that one strike.


    For that one strike, he did not mind if he lost his life!


    Therefore, he had not agreed to Yi Xiao''s request.


    If he agreed, he would eventually fail to kill Water God. Even if Water God was heavily injured, it would only lead to frightening him. Then, even if he had the confidence the next time, Water God would be serious when facing him again. He would definitely think: "You nearly killed me the last time. For you to dare come again, you must have made sufficient preparations." Water God would definitely not give me another chance.


    "I only have one chance. If I fail, Water God will not risk it the next time."


    "I believed that I would definitely succeed a year later."


    "However, the Divine Firmament Chapter, which is a Daoist sacred land, has determined that Water God can make a breakthrough at any time. There is no question of its authenticity."


    "Once he breaks through within a year, how am I to kill him?"


    Qin Yun held the wine cup as he could not help but tighten his grip, smashing it to smithereens in the process.


    If he missed the opportunity and failed to kill Water God, allowing it to continue wreaking havoc, Qin Yun would die with regrets.

 45 Determining the Plan

    Chapter 45: Determining the Plan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Calm down. Calm down."


    "There''s no need to rush to a decision. Think again. Think some more." Qin Yun tried convincing himself.


    He had to consider the matter carefully because he could not accept the outcome of failure.


    ¡­


    That night, he sat in the restaurant till it closed before returning alone. That night, he continued cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    One day. Two days.


    The summer''s sun rose very early. Early in the scorching morning, Qin Yun left home and headed for County Governor Manor.


    "Young Master Qin?" The guards at the entrance to County Governor Manor turned receptive the moment they saw him. All of them knew that Young Master Qin was now a distinguished favorite of the county governor.


    Qin Yun did not need to wait outside before he was led in.


    Soon.


    He came outside Yi Xiao''s yard. The guard behind shouted, "Miss Yi, Young Master Qin wishes to seek an audience."


    "Young Master Qin, I''ll take my leave." The guard said. There were a total of six hundred guards in County Governor Manor, with more than half of them having gone to Green Tooth Mountain. They naturally knew that White Tiger had its claw cleaved off by Young Master Qin.


    "Thanks." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    For Young Master Qin to be so courteous and actually thank him, the guard felt immensely proud of himself. He took his leave with a big grin.


    Qin Yun stood outside the yard and soon after, the door opened with a creak.


    Yi Xiao smiled when she looked out. "It''s only the second day and here you are? Come in and have a seat."


    Qin Yun nodded and entered.


    The two sat down.


    "Brother Qin, I was somewhat agitated when I went to your place. Please don''t mind me," said Yi Xiao. "Indeed, I am taking a risk trying to kill Water God but I cannot force others to take the risk with me. Furthermore, you have to consider your family."


    Yi Xiao believed that she understood what was holding Qin Yun back.


    Qin Yun likely had many considerations. If the assassination on Water God failed, it would result in his revenge.


    "Miss Yi." Qin Yun said, "I''m rather impressed by you. As a foreigner, you are willing to risk your life to save the millions of citizens of Grand Dominance County."


    A sect mission might come with a reward but Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family members would not risk their lives for a bit of reward. Qin Yun could tell that Yi Xiao truly could not tolerate the circumstances Grand Dominance County was facing. She had come solely because of this.


    It left him impressed.


    As for Yi Xiao¡­ It was also very normal for her not to understand how the ways of the world and people worked. Young cultivators would typically enter the mountains for cultivation as children. They experienced little of the secular world.


    "If Water God can be killed, saving countless citizens of Grand Dominance County and allowing a large number of children to return to their parents'' side, I''d be willing to die to see it happen." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Let''s not talk about that. Brother Qin, having come to me, have you thought it through?"


    "I wish to ask about the possibility of Water God breaking through to the Connate True Core realm within a year." Qin Yun answered with a question.


    "This¡­"


    Yi Xiao hesitated for a moment. "I do not know. According to Divine Firmament Chapter''s intelligence, the sect''s elders have determined that he can break through at any time! The breakthrough will definitely happen within three years."


    Qin Yun sighed gently.


    Breakthrough at any time? It would definitely happen within three years?


    Qin Yun nodded. "Alright, I''ll go with you."


    "You are agreeable to it?" Yi Xiao was delighted as she immediately said, "Brother Qin, if it fails, your Qin family might incur the vengeful wrath of Water God. It is not necessary for you to go with me. I''ll think of ways to invite other cultivators."


    "My desire to kill Water God is a lot greater than yours." Qin Yun said with a chuckle. "Miss Yi, you must have read about how Water God wreaks havoc from books, right? As for me, I lived in the villages before the age of eight."


    Yi Xiao was taken aback.


    Lived in the villages?


    "I''ve seen with my own eyes, children my age drawing the lots to be given to Water God as tribute. Their parents end up letting out heart-wrenching cries." Qin Yun whispered, "I have seen villagers out in the fields being kidnapped by demons, never to return."


    "My younger sister had been eaten by Water God when I was six." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao''s expression changed.


    "Do you know why I practice the way of the sword?" Qin Yun said, "It''s for the sake of killing Water God."


    "Then, why didn''t you previously agree¡­" Yi Xiao could sense a horrifying killing intent contained within Qin Yun''s calm voice.


    "Water God is too cunning. By combining forces with you, and using the techniques the Divine Firmament Chapter has prepared, we will be able to severely injure him even if we fail to kill him. However, if it fails this time, he will definitely not give me another chance when I try to take action again." Qin Yun said, "Your sixty to seventy percent chance was just too low. I wanted a hundred percent."


    That''s right.


    As long I have a year''s time.


    As long as Water God was still in the Connate False Core realm, or even if he were at the peak of the Connate False Core realm. Once his Intrinsic Flying Sword was mastered, having Heaven Man Unity''s sword kinesis together with his Misty Rain Sword Intent, he would definitely be able to kill Water God that was a little distance away from the rivers.


    However, the premise was that Water God would not make a breakthrough!


    It had been more than two centuries¡­ He had not made a breakthrough but now, he was?


    Truly, fate was making fools out of people!


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "A hundred percent? How is that possible? How can a Postnatal cultivator have a hundred percent certainty of killing Water God? If that''s possible, the imperial government, Daoist and Buddhist sects would not be helpless against Water God for more than two centuries. The sixty to seventy percent chance I mentioned happens only if the plan proposed by the sect was carried out to perfection.


    "Yes, a hundred percent is very difficult." Qin Yun did not argue. "I was hoping of making sufficient preparations first. However, now that I know that Water God can break through at any moment, all my preparations would be for naught if it happens. It is why I''m agreeing to take action together with you."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun and felt a little ashamed.


    She felt so because she had mistaken him.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao smiled and said, "Then, let''s join forces and rid this great demon known as Water God!"


    "Rid him!" Qin Yun nodded as well, his eyes containing a sharp glimmer.


    "However, before we take action," said Qin Yun. "We need to make sufficient preparations. Only by knowing ourselves and the enemy will we have the greatest chance of killing him. These are all the information I have gathered regarding Water God."


    With that said, Qin Yun took out a handwritten book.


    "I have one here too." Yi Xiao took out a satchet and reached her hand into it. Suddenly, she pulled out a thick book that was much bigger than the satchet.


    "Cosmic Bag." Qin Yun was secretly astonished.


    Cosmic Bags were very rare. Connate False Core realm experts like Commander Fang and White Tiger did not even have one. Including the last time he saw one, this was the second time he was seeing a Cosmic Bag.


    The duo began comparing the information they had each gathered.


    "As expected of the Divine Firmament Chapter. This intelligence is very well sourced. So Water God is a disciple of the Cloudfiend Mountain?" Qin Yun was alarmed. Legends spoke of Cloudfiend Mountain, a fiendish mountain that floated above the clouds. The status it held in the hearts of all demons under the sky was equivalent to the Daoist sacred lands in the hearts of cultivators.


    Such an ancient faction was fully capable of clashing head-on with the imperial government.


    "His master is a Connate Golden Core demon. He also has many fellow disciples¡­" Qin Yun read the report''s descriptions and could not help but exclaim in awe. The demonfiend factions in the world finally revealed a tip of its iceberg through that report.


    ¡­


    "This is my original plan. Take a look." Yi Xiao handed Qin Yun a few pieces of paper.


    Qin Yun took a look at it.


    It wasn''t fake at all!


    According to Divine Firmament Chapter''s plan, there was indeed a sixty to seventy percent chance of success.


    "When my Intrinsic Flying Sword is mastered, my strength would increase immensely." Qin Yun thought to himself. "Although I would not reach the state of Heaven Man Unity to master sword kinesis, my strength should be a lot stronger than Yi Xiao''s Uncle-Master."


    "By teaming up with Yi Xiao, there should be an eighty to ninety percent chance of success." Qin Yun nodded silently.


    Sitting beside him, Yi Xiao immediately asked, "How is it? Can you do what my Uncle-Master can do?"


    "Of course. However, I think it needs some further refinement." Qin Yun suggested.


    "Tell me." Yi Xiao listened carefully.


    ¡­


    The duo researched the intelligence and discussed their strategy, with the sole goal of ridding Water God that had wreaked havoc in Grand Dominance County for more than two hundred years.


    Now, be it the millions of citizens out in the world or County Governor Manor''s county governor himself, they did not know that a huge battle that determined the lives of millions of Grand Dominance County citizens was about to begin.

 46 Intrinsic Flying Sword Completes

    Chapter 46: Intrinsic Flying Sword Completes


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The date that Qin Yun and Yi Xiao determined to take action was the twenty-sixth day of June because the twenty-eight was the day many villages in Grand Dominance County would sacrifice their young children to Water God. By taking action two days early, it would firstly, prevent the children from suffering a terrible fate and secondly, allow Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s plan to proceed.


    There was still more than half a month before the designated day arrived. The two made careful preparations and frequently discussed with each other.


    After all, neither one of them wanted to fail.


    That day at noon.


    Just after Qin Yun left Yi Xiao''s yard, he saw the county governor standing far away.


    "Young Master Qin." The county governor greeted him with a smile.


    "Lord County Governor." Qin Yun immediately walked over.


    "Let''s talk along the way." The county governor smiled as he headed toward a small footpath to the side. Qin Yun followed behind him curiously.


    The surrounding vegetation was tranquil and silent. The guards in the distance also maintained a certain distance.


    The county governor said with a sigh, "It really feels different being younger. My muscles and bones have strength and some of my minor ailments are gone."


    Qin Yun smiled.


    "Qin Yun." The county governor turned to look at him. "I owe you a great favor. You played a huge role in being able to extend my life by twenty years. In my heart, you aren''t an outsider."


    "Whatever happened at Green Tooth Mountain was simply a call of duty," said Qin Yun.


    "I''m not treating you as an outsider so I should make some things clear to you." The county governor said, "Previously, you did not have many interactions with Yi Xiao but after the expedition to Green Tooth Mountain, you frequently came to County Governor Manor to see her. Occasionally, she would go to Qin Manor to see you¡­ For a man and woman to meet privately in a lone yard without anyone present would tend to make people have wild thoughts once it reaches a certain frequency."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    Yes, in order to deal with Water God, they had frequently met to discuss the plans in detail.


    "Yi Xiao is indeed considered one of the most aesthetic entities in the world, like a fairy that had descended to the mortal world." The county governor asked, "She is the most excellent member of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family''s younger generation. She is also a disciple of the Daoist sacred land, Divine Firmament Chapter. Cultivators are, after all, few in number. Compounded by her beauty¡­ she is a rare one even among cultivators. How many people do you think are courting her?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    There were many mortals but it was very rare for mortals to produce a woman of peerless beauty. There were very few cultivators. Even if cultivation could rejuvenate a person, making their mein extraordinary, they needed to be born pretty to be like Yi Xiao.


    "There are probably many who court Miss Yi," said Qin Yun.


    "I know there are many." The county governor said with a laugh. "There are many who do not dare court her too. Why? It''s because there are three who are fervently courting her. Each of them has formidable backgrounds that scare away the rest. Those who dare court her are those with guts."


    "Who are the three?" Qin Yun asked out of curiosity.


    "The first is His Highness, Sixteenth Prince." The county governor said, "Human Emperor has established the Great Chang empire for more than three centuries. There aren''t many princes, with only eighteen to date."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Human Emperor ruled the world and had maintained his monarchy for more than three centuries. Just from his age, one could easily know that he was an unfathomable expert. Rumors said that Human Emperor cultivated in Godfiend heritage, and was one of the few peerless experts in the world.


    "Among Human Emperor''s children, there are not many with talent in cultivation. As for His Highness, Sixteenth Prince, he is rather talented. He is now twenty-five and is already at the Connate False Core realm. He also cultivates in Godfiend heritage and is extremely strong. He is favored by His Majesty and placed in important positions. Now, he is second to a general, a commandant of a Godfiend Guard with Godfiend experts under his command." The county governor said, "His Highness, Sixteenth Prince had visited the Divine Firmament Chapter once and began pursuing Yi Xiao fervently after seeing her."


    "The other is Divine Firmament Chapter''s eldest disciple." The county governor said, "He is now twenty-nine and is already at the Connate True Core realm. He is truly an elite with great profundity in the Dharmic Dao. Rumors say that the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma has been passed down to him. With his talent, there is a large chance of him reaching the Connate Golden Core realm as well."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    He was at the Connate True Core realm at such a young age?


    Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma? Out of all the Dharmic Dao, lightning reigned supreme. And among the Lightning Dharma, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma was the best! One had to know that the moment Divine Firmament Skylightning befell the world, it had unimaginable powers.


    "The third is the youngest, Young Master Fu of the Divine Firmament Zhang family." The county governor said, "Young Master Fu is the most excellent among the present generation of the Divine Firmament Zhang family. He''s only sixteen this year and has already entered the Connate False Core realm. As for the Divine Firmament Zhang family¡­ I believe you know what position it enjoys in the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Qin Yun muttered to himself.


    He knew. Of course, he knew!


    The Divine Firmament Chapter''s sect master had always been helmed by someone from the Divine Firmament Zhang family! It had never changed. This particular Young Master Fu was considered the most excellent son of the Divine Firmament Zhang family. His status and position were unmatchable even to favored princes.


    "Divine Firmament Chapter''s eldest disciple and the Divine Firmament Zhang family''s Young Master Fu. In addition, His Highness, Sixteenth Prince." The county governor said, "These are only the three strongest ones that are courting Yi Xiao. Furthermore, they aren''t very old so its a suitable match."


    "AsYi Xiao is unmoved by externalities, no one has succeeded to date." The county governor looked at Qin Yun, "The both of you haven''t known each other for long so I would like to alert you so that you would not fall into this mess. Young Master Fu and Sixteenth Prince are both extremely overbearing. Divine Firmament Chapter''s eldest disciple also has extremely powerful means."


    "Thank you, Lord County Governor, for informing me," said Qin Yun.


    The county governor nodded. "I''ll leave it to you." With that said, he left.


    Qin Yun had guessed it too.


    A gentle and graceful belle was the perfect mate for a gentleman. Despite having honed his Dao heart in the northern borders, he had been astonished the first time he met Yi Xiao. She had been cultivating in the Divine Firmament Chapter for long periods of time. There was naturally no lack of pursuers that were of the same generation in the Divine Firmament Chapter. One of them was the eldest disciple and the other was Divine Firmament Zhang family''s Young Master Fu. Lastly, there was Sixteenth Prince who had visited Divine Firmament Chapter. It was only natural.


    "Compared to them, I''m only an itinerant cultivator." Qin Yun chuckled before walking out of County Governor Manor.


    ¡­


    Days passed and in a blink of an eye, it was the nineteenth.


    It was late into the night.


    Qin Yun was sitting cross-legged on a bed in his room. Inside an incense cauldron, an incense stick was lit.


    "Swoosh."


    Quintessential Essence rapidly opened the big chest by the corner of the room. It was a chest that had been specially made-to-order. It opened to reveal fragments, all parts of the large axe! The large axe only had five hundred and fifty kilograms left after all the absorption. It was separated into several fragments and placed in the chest.


    Being carried by Quintessential Essence, the fragments flew up and soon formed a pile inside the room.


    "If I estimate it correctly, today is the day I will master my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun had a strong presentiment as his mind stirred. The sword ball in his dantian rapidly transformed into a metallic sliver and left his dantian, surging through his veins and out his fingertip. It expanded upon contact with the surrounding air and grew to a length of three inches.


    The flying sword remained bright silver in color. However, there was a blue nether glow suffusing from it.


    With a thought, he controlled the flying sword to fly straight to a point above the axe fragments on the ground.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    As Qin Yun circulated his Dharma method, the flying sword once again had lustrous swirls on its surface. The fragments beneath it began flying up as points of light, infusing into the flying sword above.


    One second after another passed by.


    After about an hour, about fifteen kilograms of the metallic essence absorbed.


    "Weng¨C"


    The flying sword suddenly vibrated with a sword hum. Its absorption rates accelerated as the fragments beneath it rapidly disintegrated. Large swaths of light dots surged upwards at the floating three-inch-long flying sword. The speed of the absorption was the first Qin Yun encountered when cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword. The fragments of the large axe quickly reduced to dregs.


    Qin Yun revealed an anticipant look, as his burning eyes stared at the flying sword. "It''s the critical moment!"


    The fervent absorption took only about ten minutes. When there were only about three hundred kilograms of fragments left, the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s vibrations came to a halt. The sword hum paused and the room fell silent.


    There was only a silver sword floating there with formless sword beams appearing at its tip.


    "My baby."


    Qin Yun revealed a look of glee.


    An Intrinsic Flying Sword was nurtured through using one''s Quintessential Essence and soul. By using his sword intent to nurture it daily, it had already become a part of his life over time. It was even more important than his limbs! Cultivators had means to regrow their severed limbs. But to have an Intrinsic Flying Sword destroyed, the effects would range from being severely injured to having his cultivation path completely severed!


    Its destruction was equivalent to having half his life sliced off.


    However, the prowess of a sword immortal stemmed from the Intrinsic Flying Sword! Without the Intrinsic Flying Sword, there was no way to demonstrate the strength of a sword immortal. Once the Intrinsic Flying Sword was mastered, it was when one''s strength surged. Qin Yun had been relying solely on his heaven-defying Misty Rain Sword Intent to last this long.

 47 Twelfth Level of Qi Refinemen

    Chapter 47: Twelfth Level of Qi Refinement


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Come." Qin Yun beckoned with his hand.


    The silver flying sword in midair whizzed towards him like a fish. It landed in Qin Yun''s hand and rapidly expanded to a three-foot-long sword, no different from an ordinary sword.


    "Unfortunately, I''m still unable to use sword kinesis." Qin Yun gave a self-deprecating smile. "My control methods can only be considered to be kinesis through Quintessential Essence."


    Quintessential Essence could control items such as gravel. Even heavy items could be lifted and launched directly.


    However, simple controlling of items was done only using Quintessential Essence as a ''hand'' so as to control the flying sword to strike. The amount of power that could be delivered was far from the destruction produced by a physical attack that was infused with Quintessential Essence. Furthermore, the power obtained from controlling a flying sword with Quintessential Essence wasn''t sufficient. Against true experts, they could have the flying sword forcefully snatched away!


    Therefore, even the flying sword Dharma treasures that were given to sword immortal disciples that left their sects temporarily were strictly used only for melee combat unless they mastered sword kinesis!


    "Sword kinesis." Qin Yun anticipated it too.


    Sword kinesis could also be attained in the Connate False Core realm. It was a result of one''s Quintessential Essence having another qualitative change! The power of the Connate False Core''s Quintessential Essence was sufficiently pure to use sword kinesis. It gathered the powers of the heaven and earth onto the flying sword! How immense were the powers of the heaven and earth? After it was gathered onto the sword, it would be a lot stronger than what mere physical strength could demonstrate.


    In the Postnatal realm, one had to reach the Heaven Man Unity state to be able to use sword kinesis. After attaining Heaven Man Unity, one could automatically gather the powers of heaven and earth, making it a lot easier to use sword kinesis. Therefore, this was the only way Postnatal cultivators had the ability to deploy sword kinesis.


    "My psyche had greatly strengthened after I gain insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent. Now, I am able to permeate it to fifty to sixty feet out." Qin Yun thought to himself. "I''m still a distance away from Heaven Man Unity."


    The breakthrough of one''s psyche was as profound as it could be.


    Gaining insights into sword intent allowed one''s psyche to strengthen.


    Insights into day-to-day living and into life itself could strengthen one''s psyche. Typically, the growth of psyche was very slow. In cultivation, once someone reached the Seamless realm, they would be able to naturally nurture their soul, allowing their soul to strengthen and gradually mature. The stronger the soul, the stronger the psyche.


    At the speed of his psyche''s growth, he estimated that it would take less than a year before he could achieve Heaven Man Unity.


    "Phew." Qin Yun beckoned as the axe fragments flew to his side. He grabbed at them with one hand. In another hand, he held his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Upon infusing Quintessential Essence into the flying sword, the surface of the flying sword suddenly turned even more dazzling as it slashed down with a loud hum.


    "Pu!"


    A white scar could barely be seen on the axe fragment that was about the size of a wok lid.


    "Just the sharpness of the flying sword is not enough to break a divine weapon." Qin Yun tried slashing with the Intrinsic Flying Sword again. This time, he used the Misty Rain Sword Intent. The silver sword suffused a mist and at a speed which the naked eye could not discern, it cleaved straight at the axe fragment. With a clang, the sword cleaved through the fragment, ripping a large portion that measured about a foot long.


    "Nice." Qin Yun was surprised. "I haven''t used all my strength but just infusing Quintessential Essence into it and using sword intent makes it possess such power? If I were to fight White Tiger again, I can directly cleave through his axe and easily slay him."


    "Impressive."


    Qin Yun revealed an excited look. "This flying sword of mine is already an eighth-grade Dharma treasure upon completion. However, because it''s an Intrinsic Flying Sword, it can produce strength that matches a sixth-grade Dharma treasure in my hand. Coupled with my sword intent, it has truly terrifying strength!"


    To a sword immortal, no Dharma treasure, however good they were, could match their own Intrinsic Flying Sword! For a cultivator like Qin Yun that had yet entered the Connate realm, the strongest Dharma treasure he could power was at the seventh-grade. But with an Intrinsic Flying Sword in hand, he was able to produce strength that matched a seventh-grade Dharma treasure even if he were using the lowest ninth-grade Dharma treasure. The amount of Quintessential Essence expended when powering an Intrinsic Flying Sword was less than a tenth of the usual amounts. There was a lot more ease and freedom.


    As such, no matter how good other Dharma treasures were, they were incomparable to his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was able to produce strength at the level of a sixth-grade Dharma treasure.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword coupled with Misty Rain Sword Intent is able to split apart such a divine weapon easily." Qin Yun exclaimed, "Sword immortals are indeed worthy of being able to use a single sword to destroy all Dharma and be best at offense. Only till today can I truly appreciate the power of a sword immortal!"


    In the past, he could not appreciate how powerful sword immortals were.


    The reason was that the weapons he used were mortal weapons. The sword techniques he used were also figured out by himself. It was powerful offensively because of the Misty Rain Sword Intent he had grasped! None of that had to do with the Sword Immortal Legacy. The only thing related to it was the purer Quintessential Essence he had.


    Only till today!


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword had been mastered and coupled with his sword intent left Qin Yun impressed.


    If he were to meet White Tiger again, it was possible for him to take its life away in about ten strikes!


    "An Intrinsic Flying Sword is extremely sharp itself. It can also produce Misty Rain sword beams." Qin Yun gently brandished the silver sword in his hand. Immediately, wisps of ethereal sword beams revolved around the room like blurry misty rain once before automatically dissipating.


    "Retrieve."


    With a thought, the silver sword in his hand melted into his arm and vanished.


    Opening his mouth, a sword beam whizzed out. It stopped in midair and revealed itself to be the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Sword immortals are said to be able to hold back the Milky Way upon opening their mouths." Qin Yun said with a smile, "Only when one masters an Intrinsic Flying Sword can one do that. However, I do not like spitting out a flying sword from my mouth."


    Unless he was deliberately tricking his enemy in battle, why would he need to spit a sword from his mouth? Forget it.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the bed as his flying sword returned to his dantian. It distorted into a sword ball and began absorbing and releasing the Quintessential Essence in the vast dantian. Each cycle only processed extremely tiny amounts of Quintessential Essence but the released amounts turned a little purer and the sharp glimmer turned brighter.


    When the Intrinsic Flying Sword was mastered, it could also help the body cultivate in Quintessential Essence.


    As this was the first time he completed the refinement of an Intrinsic Flying Sword, he had improved greatly during that night''s cultivation.


    When the sky outside gradually lit up, the Quintessential Essence within his body had turned purer after the repeated cycles of the sword ball. The flowing Quintessential Essence in his dantian even began to naturally turn into a stable vortex. Qin Yun was delighted. "Coagulated Quintessential Essence Vortex? I''ve finally entered the twelfth level of Qi Refinement. Next, I have to hone myself! By letting the Quintessential Essence coagulate within the vortex, it would finally transform into a False Core."


    It was similarly very difficult to go from the twelfth level of Qi Refinement to the False Core realm.


    However, having already grasped the Misty Rain Sword Intent, it was unlikely difficult to overcome the bottleneck. Given time, bit by bit, he could make his Quintessential Essence gradually change. It was not something he could rush either.


    "Weng!"


    Opening his eyes, he saw the sunlight that seeped in from outside the windows. Qin Yun felt an upsurge of emotions.


    He had mastered his Intrinsic Flying Sword and because of it, managed to step into the twelfth level of the Qi Refinement realm the previous night.


    "Water God. Wait for your death." Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a cold glimmer.


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, it was the twenty-fifth night of June. It was also the night before Qin Yun and Yi Xiao would set off to deal with Water God.


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun and his parents, brother, sister-in-law, and his niece and nephew were having dinner together.


    "This is mine."


    "I want it too."


    The two imps were eating excitedly with mouths covered in oil.


    "Second Brother, you are too generous by preparing so many delicacies. Shuyan and Shubing can eat alone at the children''s table. This is way too much a fuss." Qin An said with a laugh. He was exasperated by the antics of his two children.


    "It will be more lively eating together.'' Qin Yun smiled as he looked at the oily mouths of his niece and nephew.


    They were only about three years old. After they got familiar with him, they were unafraid of anything. They had a penchant for mischief.


    Qin Yun looked at them and thought of his elder brother and younger sister when they were younger.


    "Sister." Qin Yun''s heart pricked in pain. "Sister, it''s soon. Tomorrow, I will avenge you."


    "Both of you, don''t rush. It''s easy to choke on large pieces of meat. Let me tear it for you." Changlan was chuckling as she tore apart a roasted drumstick for her grandchildren.


    "I want it! I want it!"


    "I want the bones."


    "Eat the meat. There''s nothing nice about the bone."


    The family cajoled the two imps.


    Qin Yun sat by the side, smiling as he watched and drank his wine.

 48 Set Off

    Chapter 48: Set Off


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At night in Yi Xiao''s room in County Governor Manor.


    She was in a study alone. The candlelight emitted a yellow halo that attenuated at the open window that opened up to a night sky filled with stars.


    "Father, I will be fighting Water God tomorrow." Yi Xiao clenched the jade ornament in her palm and muttered softly, "I might die or live but you probably don''t care. It''s been ten years. After you left to roam the world, you have never returned to see me again. You are my only relative. How heartless you are, how heartless."


    ¡­


    At night in Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun sat in front of a window. A sword flew out from his palm and rapidly expanded into a three-foot-long sword.


    While wielding the silver sword, Qin Yun''s finger caressed the sword''s edge gently. It was ice-cold to the touch. "It''s been thirteen years. I have honed my flying sword all for this day!"


    Sitting there alone all night, dawn unknowingly appeared over the horizon.


    Qin Yun stood up and sheathed the silver sword in his scabbard. He pretended that it was an ordinary sword and not an Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The door creaked open.


    Qin Yun left the yard.


    "Second Young Master, good morning."


    "Second Young Master, good morning."


    The servants greeted him respectfully.


    Qin Yun instructed, "Ah Gui, prepare my horse."


    "Yes, Second Young Master." Li Gui immediately went to the stable to lead the horse over.


    Outside of Qin Manor, the horse was soon delivered.


    Qin Yun mounted the horse and said, "Uncle Li, I will be out on a trip today. I might not return tonight."


    "Alright." Uncle Li responded with a smile. His young master was a cultivator so it was normal for him to leave for periods as long as half a month.


    "Giddy up!"


    Qin Yun immediately rode the horse and disappeared into the distance.


    It was still very early in the morning and there were few people on the streets. Only hawkers were seen setting up their stalls in the usually bustling Jinglou Street.


    "Fatty Liu, give me five buns." Qin Yun said after riding his horse somewhere to buy some buns.


    "Second Young Master?" The fatty that sold buns genially took five meat buns out, placed them in some oilskin, and handed them to Qin Yun. "Second Young Master, the buns are on the house for you."


    "Keep it." Qin Yun threw ten coins out which neatly landed beside some plates sitting in the stall.


    Qin Yun immediately reined the horse away.


    Fatty Liu chuckled as he collected the money. The hawkers beside him hurriedly questioned him, "Fatty Liu, is that Second Young Master? Qin Manor''s Second Young Master?"


    "I heard that Qin Manor''s Second Young Master is an immortal cultivator."


    "Wow, an immortal cultivator even pays for buns."


    The hawkers broke out into a discussion.


    Fatty Liu said smugly, "What do you know? Ten years ago, when Second Young Master was still young, he came to buy buns from me frequently. He loves my buns the most."


    ¡­


    As Qin Yun ate the buns he frequently ate in his youth, he could not help but smile. He remembered that just as he moved from the village to the city, his father was still recuperating from his severed arm. Once, his mother had bought meat buns back. He had shared it with his brother and had eaten more than half of them. It was truly delicious. After his father became a constable, he also frequently patronized Fatty Liu''s meat buns.


    He finished the meat buns and his horse moved fast. Just as half the sun peeked out in the east, Qin Yun came to the eastern city gates.


    "Yi Xiao still isn''t here?" Qin Yun scanned his surroundings and dismounted his horse outside the city gates to wait.


    After waiting for a while, he saw Yi Xiao, who was dressed in a light-blue dress, riding a horse out of the eastern city gates. Yi Xiao spotted Qin Yun the moment she came out.


    "You''re here?" Qin Yun mounted the horse.


    "You came rather early," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "I have been waiting for this day for too long. Also, Miss Yi, I have to thank you," said Qin Yun. The intelligence that Yi Xiao had gathered was a lot more complete than his. If he had stuck to his original plan, it was likely to cause serious regrets.


    "I was planning to take action anyway. Besides, I was the one inviting you. Let''s go." Yi Xiao said.


    "Let''s go."


    The duo immediately proceeded on horseback.


    The two valiant steeds galloped across the major roads at rapid speeds. Occasionally, they would come across a group of villagers. They would have horse carriages with children in them. Typically, there were twenty children. These children had faces stained with tears. Some were in a daze while others were chomping down on steamed buns.


    "On the twenty-eighth is the day children from the various villages have to be given to Water God." Qin Yun explained, "It has to be on the twenty-eighth, not one day earlier or later! As there is a ten-kilometer forbidden zone around Water God Manor, any human that trespasses will be killed without question unless given prior permission."


    "Grand Dominance County is huge. The surrounding twenty county cities have millions of citizens. Some of the further ones have to travel three to four hundred kilometers to bring their children to Water God Manor; therefore, they have to embark a few days earlier. It is common." Qin Yun said, "As they have to deliver children every year, the villagers have experience with the journey."


    They all have experience.


    Qin Yun felt a stab at his heart. Such days had persisted on for more than two centuries.


    "They will not need to have such experiences in the future," replied Yi Xiao.


    "Yes, there will not be any need in the future." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Trot. Trot. Trot."


    The horses dashed straight for Water God Manor.


    ******


    In a village in Heightened district.


    Chang''er and his family of three were being imprisoned,


    A lanky man brought two other men to the prison and opened the lock himself. He said, "Brother Er, come on out."


    The woman inside the prison rushed out and grabbed the lanky man. "Where''s my baby? Where''s my baby?"


    "The convoy that delivers the children have departed a day ago." The lanky man said calmly.


    The woman reeled back in shock as she collapsed down to the ground, lost in dazed speechlessness.


    "Xiao E, we failed our baby." Chang''er hugged the other child in his arms with reddened eyes. The child was still sleeping soundly.


    "No, no¡­" The woman sobbed softly. She knew she could do nothing. Year after year, generation after generation, this had gone on for two hundred years!


    ¡­


    In the villages around the twenty county cities in Grand Dominance County, numerous villagers and families were heartbroken. However, Water God was in power. Failure to meet his demands resulted in punishment. A light one would be to send demons to slaughter an entire village while a serious punishment was to stir floods that would inundate countless villages, causing more death and injury.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao quickly traversed a hundred kilometers on horseback. The sun was high in the sky when they reached their destination.


    "Ahead is Demon Mountain Camp." Qin Yun pointed in front of him and said, "The various villages in Grand Dominance County will deliver their children to Demon Mountain Camp. It is situated five kilometers away from Water God Manor! Ordinary villagers have no right to approach Water God Manor."


    "Brother Qin, you have already said that the forbidden zone stretches out ten kilometers around Water God Manor. Any trespassers are killed without question. Then, aren''t we just slightly more than five kilometers away from Water God Manor?" Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    "Yes, soon, the encampment''s demons will begin attacking us." Qin Yun nodded. "We won''t be waiting for them. Let''s head straight for them and wipe out the entire encampment! It will be an opening gambit."


    "The array formations distributed around Water God''s manor extends for about nine kilometers. He has likely discovered us. Let''s see if he can continue tolerating us after we wipe out this encampment." Yi Xiao said as well.


    "Both of us are not yet at the Connate realm. If he doesn''t even dare come, he might as well kill himself." Qin Yun said, "Perhaps, to him, we are just prey."


    The two chatted amid laughter.


    Soon, they approached the encampment on horseback. The demons had established a camp at the foot of the mountain so as to receive the children that were delivered by the various villages.


    "Oh? It''s not yet the twenty-eighth, why are there people here?" Perched atop a watchtower in the encampment, there were two demons who saw the couple coming from afar on horseback.


    "They aren''t bringing children?"


    "They dare trespass Water God''s forbidden zone?"


    The demons exchanged looks.


    "Leader, enemies approach! A man and a woman!" One of the demons yelled loudly.


    Soon, there Demon Mountain Camp stirred with commotion. The demons came out with some of them holding roasted human flesh that they were still eating. The demons that were responsible for receiving the children were one of the most trusted demons of Water God. One by one, they came to the encampment''s entrance and saw the horseback couple coming from afar.


    "A man and a woman dare storm us?"


    "What audacity. Capture them and eat the man! We''ll have some fun with the woman before we eat her."


    There were such exclamations.


    "Leader, I heard that the ones that stormed up Green Tooth Mountain were two cultivators, a man and a woman as well." A demon with sharp ears shouted loudly immediately. Instantly, all the surrounding demons fell silent. The thin demon leader''s eyes stared widely, its eyes resembling a bell. "That man and woman from Green Tooth Mountain?"

 49 Two Arrogant Human Juniors

    Chapter 49: Two Arrogant Human Juniors


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The demons and demon leader of Demon Mountain Camp looked at the horseback couple from afar.


    "At Green Tooth Mountain, it was a man and a woman couple that cleaved off the claw of Steadfast Mountain County''s White Tiger. Hundreds of demons were unable to harm the male sword immortal at all." A demon whispered. The legend of the man and woman couple at Green Tooth Mountain had long been spread among the Grand Dominance County demons.


    "That man has a sword by his waist!" A lesser demon widened his green eyes as he pointed at the distant Qin Yun.


    "There is a sword."


    The demons'' trepidation turned worse.


    With the strength of the Green Tooth Mountain couple, it would be committing suicide if they were to attack.


    "Ordinary mortals would not dare dream of taking a step into Water God''s forbidden zone. They have to be cultivators! And it happens to be a man and a woman. That man also happens to use a sword. There''s no way it''s a coincidence. It''s highly likely that they are the couple from Green Tooth Mountain." A mouse demon said as he stroked his beard. Just as his voice faded, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, who were on horseback, suddenly leaped off their horses and began moving rapidly towards Demon Mountain Camp.


    Sou! Sou!


    "They are coming!" The demons panicked.


    "Stand guard. I''ll report it to¡ª" The thin demon leader failed to finish giving his orders.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The distant Yi Xiao stretched out her left hand gently as five-colored lightning suddenly appeared in her palm. They split into five bolts of lightning that traversed space, striking five demons! Although they were seven to eight hundred feet away, the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma''s speed allowed the distance to be traverse nearly instantly. The thin demon leader had been struck by lightning before he finished his words.


    The other four lesser demons were burned to a crisp instantly, revealing their true forms. The demon leader''s skin was charred and there was blood flowing profusely but he shouted, "Disperse!" He turned around and ran frantically.


    The demons fell into a momentary daze after the lightning strike. With the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulet, Qin Yun raised his speed and reached the entrance of the encampment.


    "Hua!"


    Qin Yun instantly drew his sword. The instant the sword was unsheathed, seven blurry sword shadows flashed. Seven demons surrounding him died instantly.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was immensely powerful. Despite being an eighth-grade Dharma treasure, Qin Yun was able to produce the strength as expected of a sixth-grade Dharma treasure. There was no need to use Misty Rain Sword Intent on the lesser demons, for a few simple sword beams were enough to vanquish them.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew¡­" Qin Yun was like a ghost as he flitted at speeds faster than the lesser demons. The fleeing demons collapsed one after another.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Yi Xiao stuck the fleeing demons with Five-elemental Lightning Dharma.


    With their assault both short-ranged and long-ranged, it ended the lives of the twenty-plus demons in the encampment! The thin demon leader was also slewed by Qin Yun with one strike.


    "You should be proud of yourself. Your blood is the first enemy blood that stains my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun looked at the charred demon leader that collapsed to the ground, revealing his true form to be a squirrel demon. As for the other lesser demons, they were all killed using sword beams! Only the demon leader had escaped death from the sword beams, which resulted in him being personally killed by the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "They have all been eliminated." Yi Xiao walked to Qin Yun''s side.


    "Thankfully, there''s Miss Yi''s Five-elemental Lightning Dharma. With me only being able to engage in melee combat, a few might have escaped." Qin Yun said with a smile. He was ultimately unable to be everywhere at once. All he could do for now was engage in melee combat. Only by mastering sword kinesis was he able to use his flying sword to kill enemies from a distance.


    "My Dharma Eyes indicate that there should be many humans here." Yi Xiao pointed into the encampment.


    "Let''s take a look."


    Qin Yun went over.


    Under the Dharma Eyes, nothing could be concealed, so they easily found the humans imprisoned in the encampment. When Qin Yun slashed open the lock with a sword beam, they saw more than ten human women in tattered clothes. They were seized with terror as they shrunk themselves into a corner. Some only had weeds to cover their bodies. Qin Yun shook his head slightly. Following that, he opened three other cells.


    Two of the cells were occupied by women and the last one had men! The men were all tied up.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" The sword beams whistled through the air, swiftly cutting off the ropes that bound the men.


    "The demons are dead. All of you should leave," said Qin Yun.


    The men were overwhelmed with joy as they struggled to get up. Two managed to barely stand but the others were either too weak to move, or they would get up only to fall again.


    ¡­


    Inside the encampment, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched as the group of humans walked out from their cells. They prostrated themselves in exhilaration. "Immortals! Thank you for saving our lives!"


    All of them did so.


    "All of you should leave, leave as fast as possible. This place is forbidden zone by Water God after all." Qin Yun said as he waved his hand, throwing the water bags and food the demons had left behind to the humans.


    "Yes, yes!"


    The men and women hurriedly accepted. They picked up the bags of water and food, with some gulping large mouthfuls of water. Finally, they helped each other and departed.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched on.


    "The cultivating sects have made it clear that any entity that consumes humans are considered fiendish demons. They are not to be spared," said Yi Xiao.


    "Out of all the demons in the world, about seventy percent of them are fiendish demons." Qin Yun shook his head. There were good demons but from his travels, he knew that there were just too few good demons.


    "Lesser demons do not pose a threat." Yi Xiao''s eyes turned sharp. "Once the great demon is eliminated, the lesser demons will only fear humans."


    "Let''s go, time to vanquish the great demon." Qin Yun immediately leaped onto the top of a building in the encampment. With another leap, he swiftly reached the mountainside. Yi Xiao followed as well.


    The location of Water God''s residence had been meticulously selected.


    The residence was constructed by the Langyang riverbank.


    And other than the rivers around the manor, there were many mountains surrounding it. Although it wasn''t as vast as Green Tooth Mountain, it was majestic! It spanned more than five kilometers across. With the mountains, the demons could hide, deterring the human armies from attacking.


    Phew! Phew!


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao quickly reached the mountain peak. Standing there, they could see into the distance. There was a roaring river in the valley and a majestic forested manor about three kilometers beside the river.


    "Brother Qin, I''m counting on you," Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded. Standing on the mountaintop, he faced Water God Manor and shouted directly, "Water God, do you have the guts to fight me!?"


    The voice that was produced with Quintessential Essence sounded like rolling thunder as it reached Water God Manor.


    ¡­


    "Water God, do you have the guts to fight me!?" The distant voice resounded in Water God Manor. It made the demons and human women within exchange looks. Who dared to challenge Water God?


    In the manor surrounded by greenery, a white-robed Water God was standing with his hands behind his back as he looked into the distance. There was a mist of water obstructing him about three kilometers away. He could barely make out the two ''dots'' in the distant mountaintop.


    "Interesting. They dare infiltrate my forbidden zone and wipe out the demons in the encampment? From what the Dual Modal Waterheart Array senses, the both of them have only knocked open the gate of immortality, juniors that are not yet in the Connate realm?" The corners of Water God''s lips suffused a sneer. "What insolence."


    "Pangolin." Water God said.


    "Water god."


    Immediately, Pangolin rushed to Water God''s side and obediently awaited his instructions.


    "Go. Investigate the two cultivators. Tell me what makes them dare provoke me?" Even against weak juniors that were not at the Connate realm, Water God would still do an initial reconnaissance.


    "Yes, Water God." Pangolin immediately headed deep into the ground and rapidly bored a tunnel out of Water God Manor.


    Moments later.


    In the meadow at the foot of a mountain, Pangolin peeked its head out to look towards the mountain peak where Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were.


    "It''s them?" Pangolin was alarmed at what he saw. "It''s that Qin Yun and Yi?"


    Three demonic slaves had once been killed by Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. Being the one that had reported the matter to Water God, Pangolin naturally recognized them at a glance.


    Phew.


    Pangolin immediately burrowed back into the ground and returned quickly.


    ¡­


    Soon, Pangolin was back in Water God Manor.


    "Water God, I have investigated and identified the two cultivators," Pangolin said respectfully. "It''s that sword immortal named Qin Yun and that female cultivator, Yi. They are also the two from Green Tooth Mountain."


    "It''s them?"


    Under Water God''s long brows, his sinister cold eyes flashed a look of contempt. "Back at Green Tooth Mountain, they had spoiled my plans and cleaved off Junior Brother White Tiger''s claw. I have been busy with my cultivation and have not sought revenge against them. Here they are, launching an assault at me? Do they think they are my match after injuring Junior Brother White Tiger?"


    "Two juniors that are not even at the Connate realm! Hmph!" Water God scoffed contemptuously.


    So what if they were from top sects?


    He himself came from one of the strongest factions in the fiendish demon world, Cloudfiend Mountain! Besides, more than two centuries had passed. Didn''t the imperial government, Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands constantly want to rid him but when had they ever succeeded?


    "Their youth makes them think too highly of themselves!" Water God said casually, "I''ll be out for a stroll. I''ll also exterminate the two arrogant human juniors along the way."


    "Our cordial farewell to Water God."


    The demons and human women surrounding him shouted politely in unison.

 50 False Core Pill

    Chapter 50: False Core Pill


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood on the mountaintop as they looked down from the top.


    "He''s out." Both of them saw a tiny figure walk out of Water God Manor, heading towards them. It looked carefree but every step traversed space rapidly.


    "We shall go according to plan in a moment." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao beside him.


    Yi Xiao nodded, flipped her hand, and revealed a transparent pill that suffused an ice-blue luster. She popped it into her mouth and swallowed it. "Got it. During this fight, Brother Qin, you have to be especially careful. You will need to engage in melee combat with him."


    "Leave it to me." Qin Yun turned his head and continued his overlook of the area below him. The tiny dot beneath was rapidly approaching. Even though there was a faint water mist beside the river shrouding the area, Qin Yun was still able to discern the figure clearly.


    The figure was dressed in white robes, making him look like a scholar that looked thin and frail.


    "Water God." Qin Yun''s heart burned with fury. He had repressed his hatred for too long. How was an eight-year-old child capable of having the willpower to train in the way of the sword in such a fascinating manner? How did he accomplish such accomplishments? Talent was one aspect of the reason, but the other reason was that he always wished to avenge his younger sister by killing Water God.


    Water God was leisurely walking with hands behind his back. Finally, he came to the foot of the mountain.


    He looked up and saw the duo on the mountaintop. He chuckled and said, "Are you the two juniors that challenged me? You snatched my spirit fruit previously and now, killed my subordinates. You want to fight me?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun looked down with flames flaring from his eyes. He yelled, "Today is the day you die!"


    While speaking, he leaped up and whizzed down the mountain''s side. Although there were many obstacles in the way such as boulders and trees, Qin Yun met them as though he was on flat ground. Every step he took covered a hundred feet.


    When Water God saw Qin Yun rushing at him, he sneered. He then looked at Yi Xiao, who was high up above him. "This little girl sure is a beauty. It will be a splendid addition to my manor."


    "Hmph." Yi Xiao grunted coldly when she heard that. However, she was in no rush to take action. All she did was wait patiently for the opportunity.


    "Water God, die!"


    With a roar, Qin Yun charged at Water God.


    Water God stood there as he gently moved the thin aqua blue chain coiled around his right hand''s index finger. The thin chain began spinning and unwrapping itself around his finger. When Qin Yun came in front of him, he instantly drew his sword and slashed a dazzling beam at Water God. Only then did Water God move the chain in his hand with a scoff.


    "Phew¡­"


    The chain grew thicker as it flew out.


    Finally, it reached the thickness of a human waist. Dense runes inscribed on the thick aqua blue chain could be seen. They resembled water waves. The waves were instantly lit up when Water God injected his forbidding demonic powers into the humongous chains. The chain''s strength was subsequently enhanced as it lashed out at Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly as he dodged with a flash.


    "Boom!" One end of the chain smashed into the mountains, causing rocks to blast apart. A huge hole replaced the mountainside as gravel flew chaotically.


    "Your speed isn''t bad." Water God casually waved his chain. Its trajectory was baffling and complex, as it flailed with extraordinary power. Qin Yun did not dare to get entangled by the chains for he knew he would be doomed if he permitted it to happen.


    "Clang."


    His silver sword blocked the chain before thrusting straight at Water God. Immediately, the chain spun around to ward off Qin Yun. Tumultuous clangs ensured as Qin Yun constantly parried the chain with his sword. However, the chain seemed to have a life of its own. It spun and twirled around, preventing Qin Yun from coming within thirty feet from Water God.


    "How are you killing me if you can''t even approach me?" Water God laughed out loudly.


    "Water God, die!" Qin Yun roared angrily. He made one attempt after another but was shoved into a perilous situation by the unpredictable chain.


    As for Yi Xiao, who was watching from the mountaintop, she clenched a Dao talisman with her left hand behind her back.


    "Go." The pill that Yi Xiao had swallowed began to release its powerful Dharmic powers. She tried her best to control the Dharmic powers but she could only barely control it with her Dharmic Dao realm and psyche strength. Her meridians were experiencing the full impact of the Dharmic powers, as it approached the limits to which her meridians could withstand. She did not dare push it any further.


    She infused her Dharmic powers into the Dao talisman, completing the activation successfully.


    With a hum, the Dao talisman''s runes lit up. The surface had faint lightning flashes before the talisman turned to powder.


    A lightning which flashed sporadically tore through the void, zapping down at an immense speed.


    ¡­


    "Soon." Although Qin Yun appeared to be struggling in battle, he was secretly waiting for the opportunity.


    He had deliberately feigned his strength without even using his Misty Rain Sword Intent. Relying only on the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulet and his flying sword, he pushed his speed to the limit. His sword techniques matched with his speed, producing the strongest force. However, the strength he demonstrated was only about White Tiger''s strength! He did it to one, make Water God lose his guard and two, to buy time.


    "Oh?" Water God suddenly had a drastic change in expression as he turned to look into midair.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The incoming formless and horrifying lightning was the first deathblow that Yi Xiao had secretly prepared using the Dao talisman. She had consumed a valuable False Core Pill, which could temporarily allow her to maintain the Dharmic power of a Connate False Core realm cultivator. Only then was she able to use a stronger Dao talisman.


    This first deathblow was Formless Yin Lightning!


    Formless Yin Lightning was silent and by the time Water God discovered it, it was already very close to him.


    "No good!" Water God''s face suddenly turned repulsive as his body abruptly expanded. His white robes tore apart from the stretching, and the formerly thin Water God instantly transformed to a gigantic ape about fifteen feet tall. Having revealed its true form as an ape, Water God had a white mist surrounding it.


    In addition, his bloodline was that of an ancient water ape! He was naturally adept at controlling the flow of water!


    The ape let out a bellow as it swinging the chains in its hands, sending it straight at the Formless Yin Lightning.


    When the Formless Yin Lightning struck the chain with a crackling sound, many of them conducted its way to Water God''s body despite a portion of it being impeded by the chain. Portions of fur on its body turned black and but it didn''t look seriously injured on the surface. However, Yin Lightning was a most domineering and insidious force. It surged straight into the water ape''s visceral organs to begin wreaking wanton destruction.


    The water ape spewed blood out of its mouth immediately.


    "You dare hurt me?" The water ape looked at Yi Xiao. With a ferocious roar, it stretched out its right arm and a Dharma treasure in its palm expanded, turning into a twenty-foot-long trident. It was the water ape''s most famous Dharma treasure, Blackwater Oxhorn Trident. It suffused a black glow with hints of black liquid swirling over its surface.


    The Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was a sixth-grade Dharma treasure! It had tremendously powerful.


    "Die!"


    The water ape''s dark yellow eyes were overwhelmed with killing intent. Now, it no longer had any thoughts of making the woman one of its concubines. All it had was one thought¡ªkill her!


    It immediately began preparing for its charge up the mountain. The trident in its hand was injected with immense powers.


    "You want to leave? Have you gotten my permission!?" Qin Yun bellowed angrily as he obstructed the water ape.


    The water ape was holding the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident in its hands while the chain was wrapped around its waist. At that moment, it gave Qin Yun a disdainful look and shouted, "Scram!" The chain by its waist spun out and swept at Qin Yun. After revealing its true form, even the chain turned a lot mightier. The water ape did not think anything of Qin Yun. It only believed that the female cultivator posed a far greater threat.


    "Bam!" A sword beam lit up and cleaved at the chain in a dreamy fashion, producing an explosive ring. The chain immediately slammed into a tree by the side, blasting it apart.


    As for Qin Yun, intense killing intent flashed from his eyes.


    "What?" The water ape was alarmed. It had not needed to use all its strength to suppress the puny sword immortal but now, having revealed its water ape true form, its Anchor Cloudchain had been so easily deflected despite the greater powers he now commanded?


    "Such a fast strike!"


    The thought came to the water ape''s mind but a sword flash was already in front of his eyes. Qin Yun was a lot stronger than what he feigned a moment ago.


    "Who said that his strength is equal to Junior Brother White Tiger''s? He had been feigning his strength at Green Tooth Mountain! It was a feint!" The water ape was instantly alarmed.


    .

 51 You Wonst Escape!

    Chapter 51: You Won''t Escape!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "It was all a feint at Green Tooth Mountain. It was done to lower my guard. It looks like I''m their ultimate goal. That Qin Yun and female cultivator had come to Grand Dominance County one after another recently! Both of them are disciples of top sects¡­ From the looks of it, it''s one of the schemes the top sects have come up with to target me." The water ape could not help but come to such a conclusion.


    It raised the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident straight in front of it, causing it to collide with the sword beam.


    "Bam!"


    The terrifying impact made the water ape involuntarily tremble. Likewise, Qin Yun took a step back from the forceful impact.


    "What powerful might." The water ape''s pupils constricted.


    "Ambushing me? Sending two powerful disciples to deal with me? But the outcome could end up with them being killed by me." The water ape''s expression was hideous. He thrust the trident at Qin Yun, causing large amounts of water to surge alongside as though the eye of the vortex was Qin Yun himself.


    "Kill!" Qin Yun shouted. He was a top sword immortal and the Intrinsic Flying Sword in his hand effused immense power. Instantly, he slashed apart the vortex eddies, parrying the trident.


    At that moment, the Anchor Cloudchain was completely wound about the water ape''s waist. The water ape was using all its strength by attacking with the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    The two figures exchanged blows. The water ape was immensely powerful, more powerful than White Tiger! The profundity of his moves was even more formidable. Coupled with the sixth-grade Dharma treasure, Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, his melee combat strength was almost equivalent to the Connate True Core realm.


    However, the power from Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was in no way inferior to the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident''s. The Misty Rain Sword Intent was even more peerless and profound, causing the two to be equals in a battle.


    ¡­


    On the mountaintop.


    Yi Xiao looked down and was also astonished. According to the original plan, it was a question if her Uncle-Master''s strength, coupled with the Length Contraction Charm would be able to hold back the water ape. Now despite Qin Yun being the one complementing her, he was able to completely hold back the water ape in melee combat. He was not at a disadvantage at all.


    "I never expected Brother Qin''s strength to be that high? He''s a lot stronger than when he battled White Tiger." Yi Xiao was astounded. "To be able to equal Water God in combat is amazing. Although Water God has been injured after the Formless Yin Lightning strike, only about ten or twenty percent of his strength would be affected at best. I have used the False Core Pill''s Dharmic powers but Brother Qin is battling him in true melee combat."


    She was impressed. At the same time, Yi Xiao tried her best to calm the chaotic Dharmic powers in her body. She was striving to use her second deathblow as soon as possible.


    The usage of a Dao talisman from before had burdened her body greatly. The remnant Dharmic powers were quaking within her body.


    ¡­


    "I can''t delay it any further. That female cultivator will likely deal another fatal strike soon." The water ape glanced at the blue-robed Yi Xiao atop the mountain. Being unable to deal with the sword immortal, the water ape immediately went for broke. It let out a roar as its fur suffused a flaming light. Fiery-red patterns began appearing on its body, causing the water ape''s aura to increase once again.


    "Forbidden demonic arts!" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were alarmed. According to their gathered intelligence, no one had seen Water God use forbidden demonic arts before but perhaps, the humans that saw it were already dead! However, with the Divine Firmament Chapter''s understanding of Cloudfiend Mountain, the demon disciples of Cloudfiend Mountain would typically train in a few forbidden arts if they were powerful enough.


    It was not a surprise that the Connate False Core realm Water God had cultivated in a forbidden art.


    "Bam!"


    With all its fur suffusing fiery-red patterns, the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident in its hand made a sweep once again. Qin Yun immediately used all his strength to block and deflect it but when he felt the inundating force, he could not resist being thrown backward.


    The water ape sneered and glanced at him. "I''ll kill you in a while."


    With that, the water ape rapidly flew up the mountainside.


    The female cultivator had to be eliminated first before he could deal with the sword immortal in peace!


    "You can''t leave!" Qin Yun roared angrily as one of his Length Contraction Charm was triggered with the infusion of Quintessential Essence. Formless fluctuations swirled around him as his entire body became distinctive in the world. When he took a step forward, an obviously great distance was traversed in a single step. Space before him rapidly contracted.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    In three steps, Qin Yun had chased up to the water ape.


    "What? That fast?" The water ape that had used all his strength was alarmed.


    "I''ve never expected this Length Contraction Spell to be so miraculous." Qin Yun was surprised as well. This was the first time he was experiencing a Length Contraction Spell. Despite having never used one, his released psyche could perfectly discern a radius of fifty to sixty feet upon reaching the zenith of the Seamless realm. He was even capable of controlling his hair, so after three bursts of speed, he was able to familiarize himself with the Length Contraction Spell. He perfectly fused it with his own style of melee combat.


    "I said that you won''t be able to leave." A sword flash came from Qin Yun as a blurry swath appeared before the water ape.


    "Scram!"


    The water ape used all its strength to swing the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident with tempestuous might. Its strength was a lot greater than Qin Yun''s. However, with the Misty Rain Sword Intent, Qin Yun''s moves came bombarding at it in flawless succession. With the immense speed of the Length Contraction Spell, making him appear on either side the water ape at any time, there was not a single strike that the water ape did not dare pay full attention to.


    As Qin Yun''s strikes were too powerful, the water ape knew from parrying them that its body would not be able to withstand any of the strikes.


    Instantly, the water ape had no way to escape from Qin Yun, whose speed was faster than it.


    "How can this be?" A human junior not even at the Connate realm is able to be this powerful in melee combat?" The water ape was alarmed. After using its forbidden demonic arts, its strength was equivalent to stepping into the Connate True Core realm. Now, he had been restrained by a Postnatal junior. Wasn''t it ridiculous?


    "I can''t stay here any longer. If I''m restrained by him, I won''t be able to kill that woman. She will be producing a deathblow at any moment. I have to leave quickly!" The water ape had a crafty and careful nature and would flee if it noticed the situation turn awry.


    Sou!


    He turned around and attempted to flee.


    "Trying to flee? Not today!" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent. How could he permit it to escape? He took a step forward and the Length Contraction Spell allowed him to catch up to the water ape in three steps. He held it up in battle once again as the strikes attacked in successive fashion. He was better at holding back an enemy than at offense!


    "Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!" The water ape let out an angry roar.


    He was truly infuriated and turning anxious.


    However, with Qin Yun appearing randomly everywhere, striking with sword beams that were dimly discernible, he showed no fear towards its Blackwater Oxhorn Trident! As for the Anchor Cloudchain? It posed an even lesser threat.


    "Where did he come from? Where? A human junior that''s not even at the Connate realm can have such powerful strength?" The water ape could not believe it.


    However, he did not know.


    He did not know that the young human sword immortal was just an ordinary child from a village thirteen years ago. His younger sister had been eaten by him. Now the young child had come to seek revenge after thirteen years!


    "You won''t be able to escape!" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent.


    ¡­


    On the mountaintop, Yi Xiao was doing her best to control her Dharmic powers. She too was feeling anxious.


    With the passage of time, Yi Xiao was finally able to attenuate the chaotic Dharmic powers in her. She heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Brother Qin has completely held back Water God. Up to now, Water God has not been able to scale the mountain." The most worrisome part of Yi Xiao''s plan was Water God''s storming the mountaintop. When it came to melee combat, Yi Xiao was probably unable to withstand a single hit from Water God.


    "Alright, time for the second deathblow."


    Yi Xiao sensed that her Dharmic powers had turned completely mild. Looking at Qin Yun and the water ape''s battle, her eyes flashed. Immediately, she flipped her hand and produced a golden bean. There were dense runic patterns carved on it.


    "Go!"


    Yi Xiao carefully released the False Core Pill''s Dharmic powers contained within her body once again. Once it infused the golden bean in her hand, the golden bean''s runic patterns immediately lit up.


    She threw it down! The golden bean blazed down like a stream of light towards the foot of the mountain.


    As it hurtled down, the golden bean began distorting and expanding. The runic patterns absorbed the powers of the world before fusing into the golden bean. As the golden bean expanded, it finally transformed into a golden-armored soldier. It was completely golden in color and held a large saber in hand. Its eyes were also golden and it had an indomitable aura. When it crashed at the foot of the mountain, there was a loud boom, causing the earth to tremble. Yet, the golden-armored soldier remained unscathed.


    This was the second of the three deathblows the Divine Firmament Chapter had prepared¡ªCast Beans for Soldiers!


    "Fiendish Demon, die!" The golden-armored soldier bellowed and headed straight for the water ape.

 52 End of the Road?

    Chapter 52: End of the Road?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Cast Beans for Soldiers?" When the water ape who was embroiled in the battle with Qin Yun saw this, it could not help but be alarmed.


    Cast Beans for Soldiers was a profound Dharmic spell from Daoism. The golden beans took a long period of time of nurturing to reach maturation. There was a one-time limit to the usage of a golden bean. Of course, there were legends that speak of golden beans that could be used for extended periods of time. They were even more valuable than Dharma treasures because they represented a combat strength that was long-lived. Even so, the golden bean that Yi Xiao cast was also extremely valuable.


    As a Daoist sacred land, the Divine Firmament Chapter clearly wished to rid the fiendish demon. The precious False Core Pill, the Length Contraction Charm, the golden bean, the Yin Lightning Dao talisman and others were allocated as items for the mission.


    "Phew." The golden-armored soldier was extremely fast. It was only slightly slower than Qin Yun with the Length Contraction Charm. However, it was a lot faster than the water ape.


    In one step, it charged at the water ape and cleaved down furiously with its saber.


    The water ape had just sent Qin Yun retreating with its Blackwater Oxhorn Trident but when it saw the incoming attack, it quickly raised the trident across its chest before the dazzling golden saber slashed down.


    Bam!


    The clash of the weapons caused a shockwave that spread in every direction.


    The water ape was forced to take two steps back, leaving deep footprints in the ground. It could not help but be alarmed. "What immense strength. It''s even stronger than mine. This golden-armored soldier''s strength and speed are both at the Connate True Core realm. Thankfully, it appears a little stupid and its moves are not flexible."


    "The legendary Dao soldiers are this powerful?" Qin Yun was delighted seeing the situation play out. Despite it being part of the plan, this was the first time he was seeing Dao soldiers.


    "With him possessing such might, I''ll let him be the main offensive while I support him." Qin Yun had been in the northern borders for three years so he was long accustomed to complementing others. Instantly, he changed his combat style. He let the golden-armored soldier charge in front while he followed behind the golden-armored soldier like a shadow. Time and time again, he would sneak an attack in. He would always thrust out his sword ruthlessly when the water ape blocked the golden-armored soldier''s attack.


    Such cooperation immediately increased the threat.


    The water ape wielded the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident and was forced to be in full defense mode. Even the chain wrapped around its waist had to frequently fly out to block Qin Yun and the golden-armored soldier.


    ¡­


    On the mountaintop.


    Yi Xiao felt her meridians hurting. The Dharmic powers were extremely violent as she tried her best attenuating it. With the rich Dharmic powers contained within the False Core Pill, it obviously could power more than three deathblows. However, Yi Xiao''s body had its limitations. According to the Divine Firmament Chapter''s estimates, three times was the limit. A fourth time would damage Yi Xiao''s cultivation foundation. The fifth time might cause her meridians to shatter the moment she attempted to generate any strength. There was no way to cast any more Dharma spells.


    This was the reason why the Divine Firmament Chapter had only given her three trump cards. If success could not be achieved in three times, she had to flee for her life.


    According to the plan, Yi Xiao would be a great distance away from Water God. By using the Length Contraction Charm to escape, there was a high chance of her escaping unscathed. The uncle-master that would engage in melee combat was excellent at his craft. Together with the Length Contraction Charm, he had a high chance of escaping with his life.


    To the Divine Firmament Chapter, even if the mission failed, the loss would not be too much considering their massive resources and wealth. The most important thing was the preservation of the disciple as they were not easy to nurture, particularly the disciples of a sacred land. All of them had a chance of entering the Connate realm.


    "The golden-army Dao soldier is extremely powerful. Brother Qin is able to complement him perfectly. With the two of them combining forces, we hold the absolute advantage. Although Water God is doing his best to parry the attacks, a perpetual defense is bound to fail. He''s doomed." Yi Xiao anticipated the outcome. However, she was trying her best to calm the chaotic Dharmic powers, hoping to cast the third and final deathblow as soon as possible.


    ******


    Rumble!


    One human, one great demon, and one gold-armored Dao soldier. The trio was engaged in a brawl!


    The great demon had the bloodline of an ancient water ape. It was at the peak of the Connate False Core realm and a disciple of Cloudfiend Mountain. Even if it were severely injured, the casting of a forbidden art allowed its strength to step into the Connate True Core realm.


    The golden-armored Dao soldier had the strength and speed at the Connate True Core realm but it was rather rigid. The overall might it could produce was barely the half-step Connate True Core realm.


    Qin Yun, being at the peak of the Postnatal realm or the twelfth level of the Qi Refinement realm, had mastered his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He also had his Misty Rain Sword Intent, so the combat prowess he had could also reach the boundaries of the Connate True Core realm. With the Length Contraction Charm, his overall strength was not much weaker than Water God.


    The trio definitely had the highest combat power in all of Grand Dominance County.


    "Puff." Qin Yun''s strike was indistinct like the randomly drifting willows in spring, making it difficult to grasp its trajectory. Along with the golden-armored soldier''s strike at full strength, the sword came rippling towards Water God''s neck.


    Water God quickly retreated and as he raised the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, he used his chain to deflect any attacks. With clamorous clangs, the sword beams repelled the Anchor Cloudchain but were blocked by the trident by a hair.


    Phew!


    The golden-armored soldier hurriedly slashed upwards with his saber!


    The water ape was thrown into confusion. "What do I do? The two of them are much faster than me. I can''t even escape. The golden-armored soldier is alright. Its attacks are rather rigid, so I can parry its attacks without trouble. However, that human sword immortal''s sword attacks are a lot more profound. I might not be able to block them if I make a mistake." The few perilous situations it had been placed in was a result of Qin Yun.


    "The golden-armored soldier will dissipate once the Dharmic powers in it are completed drained. An intense battle will make it dissipate faster but it will take at least ten minutes." Numerous thoughts arose in the water ape''s mind as it pondered a countermeasure.


    However, the ancient saying was apt: a perpetual defense was bound to fail!


    Furthermore, Qin Yun''s killing intent ensured he did his best to seek out any opportunity.


    "Clang!" The golden-armored Dao soldier slashed down at the water ape''s leg, to which the water ape lowered his trident vertically to block. With a resounding clang, the water ape was forced into retreat. His trident lost its uprightness from the strike and at the same time, Qin Yun appeared from behind the golden-armored Dao soldier and appeared before the water ape. He slashed his sword straight at the water ape''s neck.


    "Oh no."


    The water ape panicked upon seeing this. Qin Yun was too fast with the Length Contraction Charm! Without having the time to block with the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, he immediately controlled the Anchor Cloudchain to wrap around his neck. If he had to suffer a strike, the chain would take the initial blow.


    Having engaged in such a long brawl, Qin Yun naturally did not hesitate to miss such a good opportunity. His sword beam instantly changed trajectory and cleaved angrily at the water ape''s thick arm.


    "Bam!"


    How powerful was the Intrinsic Flying Sword? Filled with killing intent, Qin Yun did not show any mercy.


    Even White Tiger''s axe could be cleaved apart under Qin Yun''s full force, much less the water ape''s body! Even if it had a body slightly stronger than White Tiger''s body, the result was the furry and humongous arm falling to the ground with a spluttering sound accompanying it. Fresh blood spewed out of the wound.


    "Ah, ah, ah!" The water ape cried out in pain. It glanced at its gigantic arm on the ground with a hideous expression. It was furious and alarmed.


    Danger! Danger! Danger!


    It was already extremely difficult for him to parry off the strikes while in perfect condition. Now that he had lost an arm, his strength could at best be considered halved. How was he to fight his opponents?


    ¡­


    "Awesome!" Yi Xiao was overlooking from the mountaintop. She could not help but be delighted upon seeing the turn of events. "Water God has lost an arm. If we keep up the momentum, we can rob him of his life."


    The turn of events was better than what was laid out in the plans.


    The original plan was to have the uncle-master join forces with the golden-armored Dao soldier to hold back Water God so that Water God would receive the three deathblows! The heavier the injuries, the weaker one was. When the time came, her uncle-master and the golden-armored Dao soldier would have a higher chance of jointly killing Water God.


    Now¡­ the third deathblow had not been cast but Water God had already been inflicted with serious injuries. From the looks of it, he could not last much longer.


    Clearly, compared to the original plan, Qin Yun posed a greater threat to Water God.


    ¡­


    At the moment it lost his arm, the water ape retreated as fast as it could. Simultaneously, its yellow pupils began suffusing red. It laughed out maniacally instead of showing its anger. "Hahaha, well done! Very well done!"


    Its laughter contained limitless sorrow and craziness.


    "Boom!"


    The water ape''s aura expanded abruptly as its fifteen-foot-tall figure enlarged once again, reaching a height of thirty feet! Qin Yun was already shorter than where the water ape''s knees were. Furthermore, there was a thick miss lingering around it. Its aura and might was a lot stronger than before. It was a qualitative metamorphosis.


    "This¡­" Qin Yun was alarmed. Even the golden-armored soldier''s solemn expression turned blank slightly.


    "Impossible!" Yi Xiao felt like a cold basin of water had splashed her heart. She felt her heart turn cold and despondent.


    Qin Yun''s heart was convulsing.


    Looking at the gargantuan thirty-foot-tall water ape, with the formidable stance it was in, Qin Yun could tell that such qualitative increase in strength could not be accomplished by any forbidden or mystic arts. There was only one possibility: Water God had made a breakthrough! It had broken through from the Connate False Core to the Connate True Core realm!

 53 Connate True Core Realm

    Chapter 53: Connate True Core Realm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The water ape''s red eyes were burning with fury. It looked up at into the mountains where Yi Xiao stood, causing her to involuntarily find her heart tensing up. Following that, it looked down at Qin Yun and the golden-armored soldier.


    "All of you forced me. You forced me." The water ape growled deeply. "You have destroyed all hopes of me reaching the Golden Core realm. I want all of you dead!"


    "What? Destroyed all hopes of reaching the Golden Core realm?" Qin Yun immediately guessed the reason. "Yes, the Divine Firmament Chapter previously discovered that he has done sufficient preparations and accumulated enough strength to break through to the Connate True Core realm at any time. In fact, his strength could reach the Connate True Core realm long ago. He had deliberately held back his breakthrough to ensure a stable foundation. By acquiring a sufficiently solid foundation, he would have a greater chance of reaching the Connate Golden Core realm."


    It was extremely difficult to attain the Connate Golden Core realm.


    For example, some Daoist cultivation Dharmic methods, such as the one Commander Fang had practiced, had a cultivation ceiling at the Connate False Core realm. Better Dharmic methods would have a ceiling at the Connate True Core realm. Why? It was because their foundation was not stable enough. A tall building required a solid foundation before it could be built tall. It was the same with cultivation! For Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, they cultivated in top heritage methods, making the beginning extremely difficult.


    How much hardship did Qin Yun endure in order to knock open the gate of immortality? However, the moment he knocked open the gate of immortality, the pureness of his Quintessential Essence was able to match a typical Connate False Core realm''s! These were the advantages and disadvantages of having top heritage techniques. It ensured a firm foundation but made it difficult.


    Such top heritage would typically allow one to cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm.


    As for Water God, as a fiendish demon, the demonic arts he possessed were even more sinister. His cultivation methods were common and not intricate enough. Naturally, he had to be even more careful, and ensure that his foundation was extremely robust.


    Previously, Water God was willing to escape rather than make a breakthrough because he did not want to limit his future cultivation. He wanted to be able to truly live up to the might of an ancient water ape.


    After having one of his arms chopped off while facing perilous danger, Water God had no choice but to make a breakthrough.


    Without a breakthrough, there was only death!


    "I have painstakingly honed my foundation but you have destroyed my path to a Golden Core. You have destroyed my path to a Golden Core!" The water ape roared maniacally. Its right hand was holding the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, which had also expanded to forty feet. With one hand, it swung the trident and thrust it at the golden-armored soldier.


    "Fiendish Demon!" The golden-armored soldier bellowed as he raised his huge saber to face his enemy.


    Sou!


    Under the Length Contraction Spell, Qin Yun''s figure appeared like a ghost from the side as he slashed at the water ape''s outer knee. "Phew!" A gigantic chain flew out, forcing Qin Yun to use his sword arts to block it. However, he felt an immense amount of force coming from the blocked chain. The chain danced in the air like an agile snake, preventing Qin Yun from even coming close.


    "What? Just the Anchor Cloudchain manages to keep me at bay?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "Is the Anchor Cloudchain so mighty when powered by a demonic Connate True Core?"


    ¡­


    The Anchor Cloudchain that had been coiled around the water ape forced Qin Yun to keep a distance. Having been powered by a stronger demonic strength and a stronger body, the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident''s might had unquestionably increased exponentially.


    "Boom." The trident thrust with a vigorous force that the golden-armored soldier parried with his saber but was forced to stagger backward.


    "Die!"


    The water ape brandished the trident with one hand as he struck down with tremendous force.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Successive strikes hailed down. The somewhat rigid golden-armored soldier was still staggering backward, so when the first strike hit him, his entire body sunk into the ground. The ground beneath him ruptured into a deep pit and the bombardment that ensued sounded like piling works. It sent the helpless golden-armored soldier deeper into the ground.


    "Darn it." Qin Yun was feeling extremely anxious. He wanted to help the golden-armored soldier but the Anchor Cloudchain was too nimble and quick. It was constantly in pursuit of him, preventing him from aiding the golden-armored soldier.


    In the ensuing seventeen strikes, the golden-armored soldier was struck with the full force of each blow. The Dharmic powers within it were constantly being drained and finally, it dissipated noiselessly like a crumbling gravel. The golden powder scattered in every direction possible.


    The golden-armored Dao soldier had been vanquished by the domineering force.


    The water ape turned its head and its red pupils stared at Qin Yun. It grinned, revealing its sharp teeth. "Human punk, it''s your turn!"


    Just as its voice faded, it had taken a step towards Qin Yun. It brandished its trident once again, raised it up, and struck down.


    "So fast!" Qin Yun could not dodge the blitz and he was forced to use his sword arts to parry.


    "Peng!"


    At the instant his sword blocked the trident, Qin Yun felt a crushing force surging at him. He was sent flying backward and crashed into the mountain cliff. But at the moment of impact, he kicked out from the cliff, producing a huge crater in it! He had rapidly changed directions.


    "Phew." The thirty-foot water ape rushed at him, with each step bigger than any of the previous ones. The footsteps were also much faster, so in three steps, it had caught up to Qin Yun.


    "His speed is faster than mine." Qin Yun felt his heart palpitate.


    His opponent had reached the Connate True Core realm after all. It also had the bloodline of an ancient water ape. Although it had suffered the injury of a lost arm, its legs were fine. Its speed was still as astounding as ever. Unfortunately, he was at the Postnatal realm, so even with the Divine Traversal Talisman Amulet and Length Contraction Spell, his speed was still inferior to his opponent''s.


    ¡­


    And on the mountaintop.


    Yi Xiao saw the golden-armored soldier suffer a multitude of attacks while Qin Yun was being held back by the Anchor Cloudchain. She immediately turned anxious.


    "I can''t hold back any further." The Dharmic powers within Yi Xiao''s body had yet to calm down but she forcefully circulated the False Core Pill''s Dharmic powers and infused them into a Dao talisman she held. This Dao talisman was Divine Firmament Chapter''s famous Pre-celestial One Breath Lightning Charm.


    Yi Xiao could not help but vomit a mouthful of blood.


    However, she continued to forcefully inject Dharmic powers into the charm.


    "Come, lightning!" Yi Xiao''s face was ghastly pale when the Pre-celestial One Breath Lightning Charm''s runic patterns lit up before the Dao talisman ignited without a flame. Runes began to light up as they induced profound energies from the world.


    "Boom!"


    Gray and misty lightning zapped down abruptly in a snakelike fashion from the sky, striking the water ape beneath.


    The water ape suddenly looked up and waved his trident with all his strength. "Dissipate!" Torrential amounts of demonic powers were injected into the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, causing the ensuing clash to dissipate large swaths of the gray and misty lightning. Although the remaining portion had struck the water ape, it had managed to withstand the bolt with a gruesome expression. His physical body was a lot stronger than before. Qin Yun wanted to take the opportunity to deal a close-ranged blow but while withstanding the lightning, the water ape was able to control the Anchor Cloudchain to easily ward Qin Yun off.


    "What? He is able to divert his attention to control the Anchor Cloudchain while withstanding the Pre-celestial One Breath Lightning Charm?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    The water ape raised its head and looked at Yi Xiao with cold eyes. It growled, "Little girl, no hurry. I''ll kill you in a while! I''ll first get rid of this human punk."


    The water ape raised the trident and attacked Qin Yun once again. Its speed was very fast so although Qin Yun''s figure was like a ghost, it was still able to catch up to him in a few steps.


    "Peng!"


    The Anchor Cloudchain swirled over.


    The gigantic trident thrust at him with torrential waters.


    Qin Yun blocked with all his might but as he did so, he had to put in great effort to move his sword beams to block the surreptitious Anchor Cloudchain.


    "Die!" The water ape''s eyes were red and filled with killing intent. The anger of having its cultivation path severed made him only have one thought that occupied his mind. He wanted to kill the two human cultivators!


    The Blackwater Oxhorn Trident and the Anchor Cloudchain surrounded Qin Yun and began their relentless assault. Even with the Length Contraction Spell, he was unable to dodge the attacks. He could only barely manage to block, but every block sent him flying. In midair, he had to do his best defending himself. Thankfully, his Misty Rain Sword Intent was learned from his time in the battlefields. He was frequently besieged so he was most adept at defense.


    However, he had been forced to only defend with no way to focus on attacking.


    The attacks were too aggressive.


    Qin Yun felt as though he was back on the battlefield of yesteryear. He felt like attacks were coming from every direction that seemed to inundate the world black. He could only do his best to resist.


    "Is it a failure?"


    Qin Yun asked himself.


    The Divine Firmament Chapter had prepared three deathblows but Yi Xiao had used them all without any success. He had also given his all!


    He could not see any hope!


    Thirteen years. For this day, what welcomed him was such an outcome?

 54 Flying sword! Flying sword!

    Chapter 54: Flying sword! Flying sword!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The water ape brandished its Blackwater Oxhorn Trident and Anchor Cloudchain, attacking Qin Yun with all its might. Its blows left Qin Yun flying into midair before crashing into a mountain cliff, followed by a tree¡­ However, the defense put out by Qin Yun''s misty sword beams managed to parry every single attack.


    "Why is this sword immortal''s sword arts so good at defense?" The water ape turned curious. "I hold the absolute advantage but I have not managed to grab a single opportunity."


    "If I didn''t lose my arm, my attacks would be faster and more precise. It''ll probably take me a few moves to kill him directly." The water ape looked at its remaining right arm. By wielding the trident with only one arm, its attacks naturally became a lot cruder. It was more inclined towards simple strikes such as thrusting, slamming or slicing. "If this continues, I can only defeat him by depleting him of his Quintessential Essence. He''s a junior that has yet to enter the Connate realm, so his Quintessential Essence is definitely not as much as my demonic powers. I''ll be able to enervate him."


    This took time to describe but in reality, the water ape came to a realization after attacking Qin Yun several times.


    To kill the human sword immortal? It wasn''t difficult! But it would probably take him a great deal of time.


    "Kill that female cultivator first. I can''t let her escape." The water ape immediately came to a decision.


    The two human cultivators could not be spared! The three powerful deathblows from the female cultivator played a significant role in placing him into the current state he was in.


    Phew!


    With this thought in mind, the water ape immediately leaped into the sky and headed for the mountain cliff. It was steeply slanted but the thirty-foot-tall water ape treated it like flat land, managing to rush up at a maniacal speed.


    When Qin Yun saw this, he immediately looked up at Yi Xiao and shouted instantly, "Run! Run away!"


    "Brother Qin, you should run too!" Yi Xiao, who was originally worried for Qin Yun, noticed that Water God was traversing up the side of the mountain for her. Without any hesitation, she immediately used her Dharmic Dao and Length Contraction Charm. Woosh! With a single step, her figure flashed and instantly, she had covered more than two hundred feet.


    "After it." Qin Yun was worried for Yi Xiao. He wished he could hold Water God back ever so little, allowing her to flee successfully.


    As she cultivated in the Dharmic Dao, she was not skilled at melee combat, so there was no question about her death if the water ape closed in on her.


    For Qin Yun, he was able to hold his own in a combat in close quarters. After all, he was best at defense.


    "Woo!" The turbulent winds whistled by his ear as he rapidly charged up the mountain cliff. His speed was also slightly slower than the water ape''s. The pursuit of human and water ape continued¡­ However, the distance was getting wider. Qin Yun watched helplessly as the water ape reached the mountaintop and soon, it disappeared from his vision.


    A few seconds later, Qin Yun reached the top of the mountain.


    "Oh?"


    Standing atop the mountain, he looked afar and saw Yi Xiao a great distance away. Yet, the water ape was closing in on her.


    "No good. Yi Xiao''s speed is slower than mine. In time, she will be caught by Water God." Yi Xiao turned anxious as he quickly continued his pursuit. Yi Xiao''s speed was incomparable to his. For her to be that fast, she had relied on her Dharmic Dao.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao was indeed escaping with all her might; however, the water ape was too fast. Although it had just broken through and suffered the severe injury of a broken arm, its legs were fine. It was still able to run very fast.


    "He''s approaching. He''s approaching!" Yi Xiao could sense the behemoth closing in on her rapidly. She could not help but worry.


    "Die!"


    With a majestic bellow, the water ape extended its arm. One end of the Anchor Cloudchain was wrapped around the water ape''s arm while the other end flew out. As it whistled in the air, it grew to about five hundred feet long. The Anchor Cloudchain was a Dharma treasure in the form of a chain. It was best at attacking from odd angles and was very long. As the Anchor Cloudchain lashed around, Yi Xiao instantly activated her protective Dharma treasure, producing a hazy three-layered halo that covered her body.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Previously, the water ape could match the all-out Qin Yun purely by controlling the Anchor Cloudchain with its Dharmic powers.


    Now, just a swing of its arm caused the chain to produce explosive sounds when lashing through the void.


    It lashed at Yi Xiao ruthlessly, causing the three hazy halos to shatter one after another. The final halo held for a short moment before fracturing. However, Yi Xiao was struck heavily in the chest by the chain. Instantly, the color in her face drained as she spewed a mouthful of fresh blood. She was sent flying backward and to the bottom of a mountain cliff¡­ Thankfully, her robes were extraordinary or she would have been killed from that single strike.


    "Haha, die!" The water ape pounced over and once again brandished its chain and lashed it at Yi Xiao.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun, who was frantically in hot pursuit, saw the gap between him and the water ape open up. He could not help but feel torn by anxiety.


    "I have cultivated for thirteen years all for such an outcome?"


    "No! No¡ª"


    The gap grew wider.


    Qin Yun watched helplessly as the water ape moved its arm, lashing out the Anchor Cloudchain at Yi Xiao, who was hundreds of feet away. He saw her protective Dharma treasure halo shatter and her flying towards the valley while spewing out blood. And then, she disappeared from Qin Yun''s vision. The water ape moved forward and continued lashing out furiously at the plummeting Yi Xiao.


    "Father, Mother, Big Brother, Second Brother, save me! Save me¡­" The cries of his younger sister when she was taken away by the demons resounded in his mind again.


    "I want to train in the way of the sword. I want to kill Water God. I want to avenge my sister!" Eight-year-old Qin Yun''s eyes were bloodshot as he practiced his swordsmanship crazily.


    At Western Mountain Sword Garden, Qin Yun did not bother befriending the scions. He put in all his efforts in his swordplay. There he met the similarly proud Madman Xie and the lackey, Little Bobo.


    Thirteen years old, One with the sword!


    Fifteen years old, number one person among Grand Dominance City''s younger generation. However, seeing how he had no hopes of knocking open the gate of immortality, while he had no interest in second or third tier cultivation sects, he knew he needed to possess top heritage to even have a chance at killing Water God. At age fifteen, he left his hometown alone.


    The world was vast. There were bandits and brutal demons out in the open¡­ but there were also insidious plots, vicious beauties, and brothers that stabbed people in the back¡­


    In the northern borders, he lived a life on the edge of life and death. A group of cultivators wore their hearts on their sleeves and were brothers in arms. Even against death, they remained high in spirits¡­


    He had gone with Yi Xiao to Green Tooth Mountain and come here to fight Water God together. And now, Yi Xiao was about to be lashed to death by the chain in such a brutal manner?


    "I came back."


    "I honed my sword for thirteen years, not to see Water God continue wreaking havoc."


    "I, Qin Yun, will risk my life and my everything, in exchange for one thing¡ªto kill Water God! Kill him!" Qin Yun saw Water God lash out at Yi Xiao as his eyes turned red.


    A willpower that exceeded life itself!


    Willpower that had been honed from surviving every brush with death!


    To date, he had never experienced such a strong desire in his cultivation career!


    Even if he died, he wanted to drag Water God down with him!


    "Boom!"


    The world was resonating in response.


    Qin Yun''s surging psyche stirred the world as all the worldly powers trembled in response. Dust, gravel, and leaves began floating. As for the water ape that had just lashed out, it sensed something and turned back immediately. It saw the trembling scene of the worldly power. The water ape''s expression changed. "Heaven Man Unity? How can a human sword immortal that is not yet at the Connate realm able to accomplish Heaven Man Unity?"


    Once one''s willpower underwent a complete metamorphosis, the soul would naturally be enhanced. Having reached the pinnacle of the Seamless realm, his psyche could be fully projected out. Now, with another metamorphic change, he was directly able to control the worldly powers, reaching the state of Heaven Man Unity.


    Turbulent Dharmic powers were immediately infused into the flying sword as the quaking worldly power surged into the flying sword without any coercion. They formed special runes on the flying sword.


    Heaven Man Unity, successful attainment of sword kinesis!


    Mastering his Intrinsic Flying Sword?


    Misty Rain Sword Intent?


    All three were attained!


    Qin Yun stared at the distant water ape with red eyes. He roared, "Sword kinesis, kill!


    Boom!


    The flying sword in his hand immediately whizzed to a high altitude. The Misty Rain Sword Intent was its soul! The Intrinsic Flying Sword was its body! The powers of the heaven and earth permeated through that one sword! Space itself was resonating as the flying sword tore through the air, resulting in explosive sounds that resembled rumbling thunder. The flying sword was extremely fast; the friction that arose from its hurtling through the air caused sparks.


    "What?" The water ape saw the flying sword that was tearing through space. The thunderous fires that formed gave it a fright. "Sword beams with thunder? It even formed thunderous fire?"


    Just as this thought flashed past its mind, the flying sword appeared in front of it, with horror as a companion.


    At this moment, the water ape felt the threat of death. With all its strength, it raised the trident to block the sword. Even the Anchor Cloudchain was used at full force to withstand the incoming attack.


    "Boom!"


    In the tumultuous thunder, the flying sword streaked a fiery trajectory. With one flash, almost as fast as the blinking of an eye, the sword had circled around water ape more than ten times. Finally, the water ape failed to parry one strike, causing the thunderous fire sword beam to penetrate its chest, boring a huge bloody hole through it. Following that, there were a few more flying sword trajectories that struck the water ape. Holes opened up in its torso and head.


    In the middle of the water ape''s gigantic head, where the glabella was located, a hole was torn through by the sword. There were many other holes in its body, and its heart and other vital organs had been penetrated.


    It stared at the distant Qin Yun with widened eyes.


    "I¡­ I can''t accept it!" The water ape felt its consciousness fading away as it growled. If its arm had not been cleaved off, it would be able to use the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident more intricately. He would have been able to block the flying sword! If it had not chased Yi Xiao and attacked the sword immortal without giving him a breather, it was able to exhaust the sword immortal and kill him.


    However, there were no ifs when it came to fate!


    He possessed an ancient water ape bloodline and had been extremely careful. The imperial government, and Daoist and Buddhist sects had failed to kill him but now, he had been killed by a human sword immortal that had yet entered the Connate realm.


    "I can''t accept it!" Following that, the water ape''s consciousness faded away. His massive body collapsed to the ground, churning up countless dust and rocks.


    "He''s finally dead. He''s finally dead." Qin Yun''s blood was surging with ardor and zeal. His body was trembling and his eyes were bloodshot.


    "Yi Xiao, there''s Yi Xiao too!" Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    The flying sword flew from afar and returned in front of Qin Yun. He leaped onto the flying sword.


    Sou!


    With the flying sword beneath his feet, he accelerated. He was much faster than before and when he flew out of the valley, he charged straight down.

 55 Nestling

    Chapter 55: Nestling


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Standing on his flying sword, Qin Yun charged down and saw Yi Xiao''s figure. There was blood seeping through her robes and her face was pale. There were three layers of hazy haloes suffusing her surface but she was slumped to the ground, strengthless.


    "Yi Xiao." The anxious Qin Yun directed the sword to dive at high speed, rushing down into the valley to reach Yi Xiao.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao had been thrown into the valley after being struck by the Anchor Cloudchain. As she saw the gargantuan water ape chasing her and about to lash out again, she had felt a sense of despair even though she instinctively powered her protective Dharma treasure.


    "My protective Dharma treasure, Protective Armor Spell, and the protective powers in my robes were destroyed in one strike?" Yi Xiao attempted to cast a Protective Armor Spell again but the pain in her meridians prevented her from succeeding.


    The chain was already lashing down at her!


    "Am I going to die here?" Yi Xiao watched the chain lash down. She realized that she could remain very calm as death loomed over her.


    "Father, if you hear of my death, will you be hurt?"


    Yi Xiao said silently to herself.


    Suddenly, there was a tremor from the worldly energies. The water ape that had lashed out with its chain suddenly turned its head and the momentum of the chain decreased greatly. Although it struck Yi Xiao''s three-layered halo that protected her with a loud boom, she had only suffered fractures in her ribs despite her failure to cast a Protective Armor Spell and the protective powers of her robes had been completely drained. She had endured the chain''s strike only through the special materials of her robe and the natural protection she derived from her Dharmic powers.


    Following that, the chain was instantly retracted and there were rolling thunder and the clashing of weapons sounding above her.


    Following that, there was silence.


    "I can''t accept it!" A low, indignant roar resounded before the sound of the water ape crashing to the ground was heard.


    "What happened?" As Yi Xiao was wallowing in her despair, she was still somewhat in a daze.


    Phew!


    A figure appeared above her. Qin Yun was on a flying sword, charging down with an anxious heart.


    "Qin Yun¡­ He is engaging in Sword Kinesis Flight?" Yi Xiao saw Qin Yun fly down with sword beneath him. On careful look, she could see Qin Yun''s anxiety all over his face and from the way he was diving down.


    "Miss Yi, how are you?"


    When Qin Yun rushed to her by directing his sword, he extended his hand to hold Yi Xiao. The three protective haloes naturally dissipated.


    Yi Xiao grunted softly as her expression changed. She could not help but hold her chest as blood began spreading through her clothes.


    "Miss Yi, I''m sorry for taking liberties." Qin Yun ignored the social construct of man and woman upon seeing the scene. He immediately held Yi Xiao and infused his Quintessential Essence into Yi Xiao''s body, preventing her from suffering even the slightest of tremors.


    Yi Xiao felt the pain in her chest alleviated as she was held in Qin Yun''s arms. However, the warmth coming from Qin Yun''s embrace made her face blush involuntarily. This was the first time in her life she had been this close to a man.


    Qin Yun felt the softness of Yi Xiao''s body as he hugged her. However, her faint body fragrance made Qin Yun involuntarily tense up.


    Qin Yun, who thought nothing of life and death, turned nervous at that moment.


    He had just killed the greatest archenemy of thirteen years. He was experiencing the greatest euphoria at the moment and zeal was surging through his blood. When he saw Yi Xiao heavily injured, he felt ashamed and his heart pained for her. Yi Xiao had accompanied him to storm Green Tooth Mountain and now, had fought Water God at the risk of her life. If not for Yi Xiao''s three deathblows, there was no way he could have gotten his revenge.


    Qin Yun''s flying sword might not have defeated Water God if Water God had not lost his arm, received grievous damage from the Formless Yin Lightning and the Precelestial One Breath Lightning blasts.


    If he had waited a year according to his original plan, he would have naturally attained the Heaven Man Unity state and his strength would have reached the same stage as he had now. However, Water God might have already been in the Connate True Core realm by then. Furthermore, it would be a natural breakthrough that stemmed from a solid foundation. In addition, Water God could fortify his foundation after breaking through, so in Water God''s perfect condition, Qin Yun would only be committing suicide if he launched his assault.


    "Miss Yi, thank you." Qin Yun said softly as he stepped onto his flying sword and flew up with Yi Xiao in his arms.


    Yi Xiao revealed a smile, "What are you thanking me for?"


    With Yi Xiao in his arms, he slowly flew up but not at a great speed. He was afraid he would inflict further damage on Yi Xiao''s body.


    At that moment, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao remained silent.


    When they flew out of the valley, Yi Xiao saw the water ape''s corpse in the distance. She was stunned but not alarmed. After all, Qin Yun had managed Sword Kinesis Flight, which gave her hints as to what had happened.


    "Phew." Upon landing, the flying sword naturally fused into his body. Qin Yun gently placed Yi Xiao down, allowing her to lean on a rock above the grass.


    After putting Yi Xiao down, Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. He also felt a little despondent.


    "Miss Yi, how''re your injuries?" Qin Yun asked immediately.


    "Qin Yun, we have already gone through thick and thin twice. I nearly died this time." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Why do you still treat me as a stranger? Why do you call me Miss Yi? Just call me Yi Xiao. As for my injuries¡­ it''s alright. My ribs are broken and my internal organs are a little damaged from the shock."


    Yi Xiao frowned slightly as she spoke. She took out a Dao talisman. It was a rather common but very pragmatic Drought Rainfall Charm.


    She carefully controlled her Dharmic powers and healed her fractured ribs. Following that, she used the Drought Rainfall Charm and slowly used its restorative powers. It was quite a successful endeavor.


    The Dao talisman was triggered.


    The vibrant energy that was naturally gathered began seeping into her body, enhancing her vitality. Her bones began to grow and fuse together and the light injuries in her organs were rapidly recovering.


    "Phew." Yi Xiao heaved a sigh of relief before gently standing up.


    "How are you?" asked Qin Yun.


    "It''ll be fine if I don''t make extensive movements. Another use of the Drought Rainfall Charm and my ribs would recover. However, the injuries in my meridians will probably take half a year." Yi Xiao said, "During this half year, my strength will be reduced to a tenth or so."


    Yi Xiao looked at the gigantic Water God corpse in front of her, as well as the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident and Anchor Cloudchain that were by its side. She could not help but smile at Qin Yun. "I really couldn''t tell. Qin Yun, you must be a legend among sword immortals. You managed to master an Intrinsic Flying Sword, attained Heaven Man Unity, and gained insights into sword intent at the Postnatal realm?"


    "How did you know?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Is there a need to ask?" Yi Xiao said confidently, "Typical sword immortals that just step into the Connate False Core realm will be able to use sword kinesis through their extremely pure Dharmic powers. But the best they can do is control the sword to fight against their enemies. But to accomplish Sword Kinesis Flight? It will need the continued effort of arduous cultivation and enhancement to achieve that."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Using sword kinesis as an offense was very easy for flying sword Dharma treasures. It would also be very fast. The most powerful part of a flying sword was its speed! When wielding a sword in melee combat, one''s speed would be restricted due to the movement of one''s arms. However, if the sword was flying, the speed was much faster. With Water God''s strength, he was forced to defend. Having lost an arm, he soon failed to defend against the sword and was killed.


    As for Sword Kinesis Flight, it was ten times more difficult controlling it with one person standing on the flying sword. When Qin Yun carried Yi Xiao, there were two people on the flying sword. The burden was greater.


    "According to what I know, if a Postnatal sword immortal were to master an Intrinsic Flying Sword and then attain Heaven Man Unity to achieve sword kinesis, they are able to control their swords to kill enemies." Yi Xiao said, "However, it''s impossible for them to achieve Sword Kinesis Flight. In addition, you were able to kill Water God. Even if he had lost an arm, he had the strength of a Connate True Core realm after all. There is only one possibility for you to kill him. You attained the legend of sword immortals. You had mastered an Intrinsic Flying Sword, Heaven Man Unity''s sword kinesis, and sword intent at the Postnatal realm, allowing you to have the strength of only obtained in the realm of Connate True Core!"


    Sword immortals were capable of a single sword destroying all Dharma. It was great for offense!


    It was common for typical sword immortals to be able to fight Connate True Core realm opponents at the Connate False Core realm. As for Qin Yun, he had managed to achieve the strength to fight a Connate True Core opponent at the Postnatal realm. He was practically a legend.


    "Yi Xiao, I can''t hide anything from you." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "How did you do it? To grasp sword intent at the Postnatal realm?" Yi Xiao remained astounded.


    Heaven Man Unity was commonly grasped by humans at the Connate True Core realm! Few people at the Connate False Core realm could grasp it.


    As for sword intent, it was something only Connate Golden Core sword immortals could grasp. Even among Connate True Core sword immortals, very few managed to gain any insight. Typically, only those with insight into the Heavenly Dao could gradually gain insights into sword intent. Thus, it was only logical that one could not understand the Heavenly Dao unless one reached a sufficiently profound realm.


    "Expertise Nearing Dao," Qin Yun said with a smile.


    Sword intent was the true intent of the Dao, a charm of the Heavenly Dao. Grasping a sliver of it gave one immense strength.


    Typically, once one''s soul was sufficiently powerful, they would be able to cogitate over the Heavenly Dao. This was why only a small number of Connate True Core sword immortals were able to grasp a sliver of the Heavenly Dao''s charm.


    And legends speak of another way of grasping the Dao''s true intent. That was¡ªExpertise Nearing Dao!


    An ordinary artist or calligrapher might have a very ordinary soul but perhaps be an exceedingly rare artist. Despite being an ordinary person, their art pieces would contain the charms of the Heavenly Dao. When one''s expertise in their trade reached the epitome of perfection, a particular experience in life would allow them to grasp a sliver of that charm.


    Qin Yun had reached one with the sword at thirteen. Many years later, he suddenly had an experience while undergoing life and death in the northern borders. His Misty Rain Sword improved, allowed him to gain insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    "Expertise Nearing Dao? I actually managed to see this legend with my own eyes." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Impressive, it''s just way too awesome for you to be able to grasp a sliver of the Heavenly Dao''s charm and infusing it into your sword arts at the Postnatal realm."


    Qin Yun smiled. Among sword immortals, it was also a legend.


    "However, Qin Yun." Yi Xiao immediately said, "You have to keep it a secret. If this gets out, perhaps all the powerful demons in the world will appear to kill you, so as to rid any future trouble!"


    Qin Yun nodded. "I know. Therefore, other than you, no one else knows."


    He had kept it a secret and did not even tell his parents.


    "I''m the first to know?" Yi Xiao was astonished. She was also a little delighted as she smiled. Following that, she pointed at Water God''s corpse. "This corpse has the wounds left behind by your flying sword. Remove all traces of the corpse so that others won''t catch on. Also, are there any lesser demons watching in the vicinity?"

 56 Return

    Chapter 56: Return


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun said, "When I used my flying sword, I had maintained Heaven Man Unity, allowing me to sense the surrounding five kilometers."


    "There are no lesser demons in a fifteen hundred meter radius. Back when we challenged Water God, it had frightened them greatly. They must be in hiding, afraid to be caught in the crossfire. There are two lesser demons beyond that but under twenty-five hundred meters. Beyond twenty-five hundred meters but under five kilometers, there are three hundred lesser demons. Most of them are in Water God Manor." Qin Yun was aware of everything.


    Yi Xiao praised him. "As expected of Heaven Man Unity. We are close to Lanyang River. Typically, it would be hard to discern anything clearly past fifteen hundred meters. However, to be careful, its best you kill the two lesser demons within twenty-five hundred meters. As for the ones beyond twenty-five hundred meters? They have no way of seeing the battle. Even Water God himself is unable to see a thing at such a great distance.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Go."


    With a simple thought and a beckon of his hand, a sword beam noiselessly flew along the rock face, sticking close to it. Unlike how he was using all his strength when fighting Water God, he did not care about the strength. All he did was try to make it as silent as possible.


    ¡­


    "Quick, run away!"


    "How terrifying. Human cultivators want to battle Water God. It''s best we stay far away because our death is certain if we are caught in the crossfire."


    Two lesser demons were tearing through the woods, hearts gripped with fear.


    Suddenly¡ª


    A sword beam that resembled a misty rain flew towards them while sticking close to the ground. It whizzed past the lesser demons and immediately, they widened their eyes and collapsed to the ground, revealing their true forms. As for the sword beam, it once again returned silently while keeping close to the ground. The sword wounds inflicted on the lesser demons were also extremely ordinary.


    ¡­


    The flying sword returned and immediately merged into Qin Yun''s palm, becoming a sword ball in his dantian.


    "The art of a flying sword is indeed impressive." Yi Xiao smiled when she saw that. "The legendary top sword immortals are able to release a flying sword and kill enemies that are five hundred kilometers away. Now, you have an inkling of that magnificence."


    "I can at best send it out five kilometers. Out of that range, the strength would sharply reduce. The flying sword would then be at risk of being snatched away." Qin Yun walked to Water God''s corpse. Seeing the massive corpse, he felt balanced and especially overjoyed. "Water God has wreaked havoc for more than two centuries. Now, he has finally died here. The millions of residents of Grand Dominance County will no longer suffer any more of his atrocities."


    With that said, he waved his hand and swept his Quintessential Essence across Water God''s corpse, removing all the various items and placing them by the side. Those were the spoils of war.


    "Completely wipe away any traces of the corpse." Yi Xiao said, "I''ll return to the sect and say that I''ve completed the mission. As for Water God managing to break through to the Connate True Core realm in battle, let it be known only by the two of us. There will not be a third."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "In that case, our cooperation, together with the items given by the sect, would not be a big deal after killing a peak Connate False Core realm Water God. However, almost all the credit will be mine." Yi Xiao said, "In addition, I need some evidence. The head could have been used as proof but the head is too large. It can be determined that he was at the Connate True Core realm. Therefore, I need his other important weapon¡ªthe Blackwater Oxhorn Trident¡ªas proof."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun and felt a little ashamed. "That''s his most important weapon and it should have been yours."


    "You had helped me." Qin Yun smiled. "I do not want the outside world to know that I possess such strength at the Postnatal realm. I would attract all the great demons of the world and when that happens, I''ll be in grave trouble."


    Humans and demons had battled since time immemorial.


    Once horrifying great demons appeared, there was no way to withstand their power unless one hid in the Daoist sacred lands forever. For example, Water God''s master was a great demon at the Connate Golden Core realm!


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!" As Qin Yun spoke, he used more than half a bottle of Nether Water. He then lit the corpse on fire, causing Water God''s corpse to rapidly turn to ash amid sizzling sounds.


    There were cultivators that had the habit of eating demon flesh; however, most cultivators absolutely refused to eat demon flesh! The Sword Immortal Legacy that Qin Yun obtained had also forbidden the practice.


    "I''ll take the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident while the rest is yours." Yi Xiao looked at the trident that was now several feet long without the infused demonic power. She took out her Cosmic Bag, reached out and threw the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident into the bag. The palm-sized Cosmic Bag was able to easily contain the massive weapon.


    Qin Yun waved his hand, infusing Quintessential Essence into the Anchor Cloudchain. It rapidly shrunk and coiled around his wrist. It was an eighth-grade Dharma treasure, something Qin Yun could still control.


    On the contrary, the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was a sixth-grade Dharma treasure. Both Yi Xiao and he could not control it and use its might.


    "That many?" Qin Yun picked up the spoils of war and discovered that the most precious item was an embroidered bag. When he probed it with his Quintessential Essence, he realized the bag''s internal space was about the size of a cupboard! It was unable to contain the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, which indicated how much better and bigger Yi Xiao''s Cosmic Bag was than Water God''s Cosmic Bag.


    However, there were many treasures inside the Cosmic Bag. There was a huge messy pile of banknotes, worth a million and two hundred thousand taels of silver! There were also other precious items.


    After all, the most important things were best carried on one''s body. Water God did not dare to place his treasures in the manor. If he were to leave the manor, it would be too late for regret if demons took all his treasures away. Carrying the wealth with him was the safest. As for after death? Without a life, why bother?


    "We should split these banknotes." Qin Yun took out a thick stack of notes.


    "This Blackwater Oxhorn Trident is a lot more precious than those banknotes." Yi Xiao shook her head. "Furthermore, as cultivators, these mortal goods aren''t important."


    When Qin Yun saw Yi Xiao reject his offer, he nodded. "Alright then, knowing that you are a disciple of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family, I''ll accept it brazenly. Haha, to be honest, I''m probably richer than the Grand Dominance County''s richest Hong family."


    Although he said so, Qin Yun knew that mortal riches were still of use in the early stages of cultivation. In the later stages, money had little importance.


    "Qin Yun, remember."


    Yi Xiao said, "We killed a Connate False Core realm Water God. Even if you show your flying sword arts, you can only say that you have mastered the state of Heaven Man Unity, allowing you to perform sword kinesis. You must never expose your sword intent."


    To master Heaven Man Unity and sword kinesis at the Postnatal realm was only considered extremely rare! The masterers would be considered geniuses! However, which top sect of a Daoist or Buddhist sacred land did not have geniuses?


    But for sword intent? That was a legend.


    "I will not easily use my flying sword arts." Qin Yun immediately said, "Let''s go. We need to quickly inform the county governor of Water God''s death. We can get him to send out the troops immediately, stopping the villages in Grand Dominance County from sacrificing their children."


    "Yes, let''s return as fast as we can." Yi Xiao also nodded for it was an important matter. However, she immediately said softly, "Help me down the mountain. I''ve lost all my strength now¡­"


    "My apologies." Qin Yun stretched out his arm and embraced Yi Xiao.


    Following that, he tapped his feet and rapidly moved forward. His attainment of Heaven Man Unity made his speed a lot faster.


    As for the reason why he did not use Sword Kinesis Flight, he had to firstly, keep it a secret and secondly, Sword Kinesis Flight drained Quintessential Essence at a speed ten times faster than simply controlling a flying sword. If he carried Yi Xiao while using Sword Kinesis Flight, it would drain him dozens of times faster. Qin Yun was, after all, at the twelfth level of the Qi Refinement stage in the Postnatal realm. He did not have sufficient Quintessential Essence.


    Phew!


    As he proceeded with Yi Xiao in arm, they quickly reached the foot of the mountain.


    There, they quickly found their two horses. Although they had been left to graze, they had not gone far.


    "Giddy up! Giddy up! Giddy up!"


    Yi Xiao had not recovered from her rib injuries and could not wantonly use her Dharmic powers; therefore, she shared a horse with Qin Yun, with him constantly protecting her with Quintessential Essence. The other horse was brought along so that they could switch horses later. The two of them moved at the fastest speed possible towards Grand Dominance City.


    On the horse, Yi Xiao and Qin Yun felt the warmth coming from each other. Yi Xiao''s face was constantly red. Mixed feelings began suffusing Qin Yun''s heart as he thought to himself, "Yi Xiao is doing so only because she''s injured. I cannot be frivolous with her."


    On the way, they saw a village convoy sending their children.


    "They will only reach Demon Mountain Camp on the twenty-eighth. If they go ahead of time, they will be killed for trespassing." Qin Yun said, "Let''s return. Under the county governor''s arrangements, he will definitely be able to stop all these villagers."


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded. She also understood that the villagers would not believe them even if they stopped them. It was authoritative only when announced by the imperial government.


    After all, Water God had been wreaking havoc in Grand Dominance County for more than two centuries. To mortals, that was equivalent to numerous generations.


    ¡­


    Finally, at dusk, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao arrived outside Grand Dominance City but the city gates were closed.


    "Quickly open the gates." Qin Yun looked up at the city wall and shouted.


    The guards at the top of the city walls looked down and one of the leaders recognized him. He immediately said, "Young Master Qin, the city gates are closed. I have no authority to open the city gates."


    Only the county governor had the authority to do so.


    "Seriously." Qin Yun could only carry Yi Xiao by the waist and made a quick leap. Like a gust of wind, he scaled the city walls and with another tap of his foot, he descended the city wall and entered the city.


    The city guards fell into a daze. The city wall? It could not stop cultivators, to begin with.


    "Leader, what do we do?" The other guards were somewhat at a loss.


    "What else can we do? They are immortals. What can we do? However, kid, hurry to County Governor Manor and report the matter. As long as it''s reported, it has nothing to do with us." The leader instructed.


    ¡­


    And on the other side of the city wall, Qin Yun did not continue carrying Yi Xiao after entering the city. He held her wrist and infused Quintessential Essence over to her. He led her to County Governor Manor at a rapid pace.


    And in County Governor Manor, the county governor was still reading in his study. He was planning to sleep in a while but he was unaware that Water God was already dead!

 57 Grand Dominance Stirred

    Chapter 57: Grand Dominance Stirred


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Father, Young Master Qin and Miss Yi wish to seek an audience." A voice came from outside the study.


    The county governor was slightly taken aback. Why did they want to meet him so late into the night?


    He stood up and saw Qin Yun and Yi Xiao outside. Yi Xiao''s clothes were stained with blood which alarmed him. "Yi Xiao, what happened to you?"


    "Uncle Wen," said Yi Xiao immediately. "My injuries are nothing. There is something important I have to tell Uncle Wen. Six hours ago, Qin Yun and I went to deal with Water God and have successfully ridden him from this world. This is Water God''s personal Dharma treasure¡ªthe Blackwater Oxhorn Trident!" With that said, she took out the Cosmic Bag by her waist, retrieved out the trident, and threw it to the ground with a loud thud.


    Noticing how the ten-foot-long Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was emitting an aura of death, the two guards, Wen Chong, and the county governor were taken aback. They looked at Yi Xiao and Qin Yun in a daze.


    "You¡­ You¡­"


    It took a while before the county governor said, "Did you just say that you and Qin Yun jointly killed Water God? This¡­ This is the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident?"


    The Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was very famous! However, the county governor had only heard of it and never seen it before.


    "Lord County Governor." Qin Yun said, "Water God is dead and it is not to be doubted. Here in my hand is another one of his Dharma treasures, the Anchor Cloudchain." With that said, the chain around his wrist rapidly unwrapped and flew out. As it flew, it grew longer and the chain that was hundreds of feet long whistled around the surroundings, turning the guards, Wen Chong, and the county governor appalled.


    Yi Xiao added, "Uncle Wen, back when I sent you a letter saying that I was coming to Grand Dominance County, my true goal here was the mission I accepted from the sect¡ªto rid the world of Water God! Qin Yun had complemented me, and through the treasures bestowed to me by the Divine Firmament Chapter, we finally managed to kill Water God successfully."


    The county governor was extremely excited. "So it was a plan by the Divine Firmament Chapter."


    With that said, he crouched down and touched the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident. He was rather knowledgeable and the aura of death and charm from the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident made him understand that it was not an ordinary Dharma treasure. "It''s truly a formidable Dharma treasure. Well done, you did well killing him!"


    "I''ve seen portraits of the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident. It''s indeed identical. And it''s such a powerful Dharma treasure, so it can''t be fake." Wen Chong added.


    "How can Yi Xiao and Qin Yun lie over such a serious matter?" The county governor was so excited that blood was boiling in him.


    It had been more than two centuries!


    The entire Grand Dominance County had been shrouded in the horror of Water God for more than two centuries! The imperial government had thought of all possible means to kill it but Water God had been too careful. Cultivators at the Connate False Core realm would only send Water God fleeing into the river out of safety. How was he to be killed?


    Even if they sent the troops to kill the lesser demons, removing him of his aides? Water God, who possessed an ancient water ape bloodline, would cause floods, leaving the troops helpless.


    "He has finally been killed! Finally!" The county governor looked up into the sky and roared with laughter. "The heavens have eyes! The heavens have eyes!"


    "Water God is dead? Water God is dead?" The two guards standing by the side trembled with excitement as well. They were Grand Dominance County locals and had heard of Water God''s legends while growing up. Who in Grand Dominance County didn''t hate Water God? And who didn''t fear him from deep within their bones?


    The county governor immediately ordered, "Wen Chong, sound the drums. Gather the entire army."


    "Yes!" The excited Wen Chong immediately answered.


    ¡­


    Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong!


    The low rumbling drum gongs sounded urgent. As the loud drumming from County Governor Manor sounded, soon, there were drumming coming from everywhere in the city.


    The pressing drumbeats reverberated within the entire city!


    The entire city was to be on full alert! The constables had to gather! The troops had to gather!


    Qin Manor.


    Silver-badge constable, Qin Liehu had already fallen asleep when he was awoken by the loud drumming. Furthermore, there were servants shouting outside, "Master! Master!"


    "What''s the matter?" Changlan got up as well. "Did something serious happen? Are the demons attacking the city?"


    "It has to be something serious." Qin Liehu did not hesitate and immediately donned an outer robe and rushed out the room. He wore his clothes as he ran to the horse his servants had prepared. Immediately, he rode the horse and headed for County Governor Manor.


    At that moment, all the constables had rushed to County Governor Manor upon hearing the drumming! The military troops were gathered as well! The officials had rushed to County Governor Manor as fast as they could.


    "What happened?"


    "What? What is it?"


    "Are demons wreaking havoc in the city?"


    Late at night, many people in Grand Dominance City were resting at home. A small number of them were enjoying themselves in places like brothels. However, when they heard the intense drumming that resounded through the city, they were given a fright. Even those on the streets rushed home. Those in the restaurants did not dare leave.


    Everyone knew that something serious had happened!


    ******


    And inside County Governor Manor, the county governor had rushed into his study. He took out a golden scroll from a cabinet and a brush.


    After he spread out the golden scroll, he dabbed his brush with some clear water and immediately began writing.


    Words began appearing on the scroll.


    He reported the news of Divine Firmament Chapter disciple, Yi Xiao, having accepted the Divine Firmament Chapter''s mission and coming to Grand Dominance County to kill Water God! He also mentioned how Qin Yun had complemented Yi Xiao.


    After everything was written, the county governor took out a seal and stamped on it.


    "Weng!"


    All the text on the scroll emitted a golden light.


    Following that, the text vanished.


    "It has been reported to the imperial government. Next, we wait for its orders." The county governor muttered to himself.


    After ten minutes, text appeared from the scroll¡ª"Take control of the entire county, vanquish all demons! The Inspector Heavenly Ambassador will arrive in Grand Dominance to hold down the fort before dawn."


    "Great!" The county governor was delighted.


    The imperial government had always been decisive when dealing with demons. Especially with Water God dead, the imperial government wanted to take the opportunity to regain control of the areas outside the cities. It naturally had to be fast!


    After keeping the scroll back into the cabinet, the county governor walked out the house. Most of the officials were gathered outside the house. They were discussing fervently, clearly unsure of the reason for the summoning. However, they fell silent when the county governor came out of the study.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao also stood by the side. Yi Xiao had already returned to change into a clean set of clothes.


    "Everyone." The county governor said solemnly, "Cultivators have succeeded in killing Water God today!"


    "What?"


    "Water God is dead?"


    There was a stir. A number of people like Qin Liehu who had a grudge with Water God fell into a daze from shock.


    "I have already reported it to the imperial government and they have ordered us to quickly take control of the entire county and vanquish all fiendish demons." The county governor said with a commanding voice. None of the officials dared to make a single sound when they heard that it had been reported to the imperial government.


    "Everyone, receive your orders!" The county governor commanded.


    Everyone stood respectfully before him.


    Following that, the county governor handed out his orders one by one.


    Immediately, manpower was moved around. Personnel rushed out the city overnight and headed for different vicinities of the county.


    There were also hawks that flew into the sky and headed for different areas.


    ¡­


    There were twenty county cities in Grand Dominance County. They covered a vast area and many villages. There were also on-site inspection offices located at important areas.


    A hawk landed in one of the on-site inspection offices and the inspector received the letter.


    "What?"


    The moment he saw the letter, he was overwhelmed with excitement. He cleared his throat and immediately ordered his subordinates, "Quickly inform all villages that Water God has been killed by cultivators. From this day forth, the millions of residents of our Grand Dominance County would no longer suffer under Water God anymore!"


    "What? "Lord Inspector, is that for real?"


    "Water God is dead?"


    The soldiers under him refused to believe him.


    "The authorities have already sent a letter by hawk. The three major seals are on it, so how can it be faked?" The inspector immediately ordered, "I''ll stand guard here. The other eight troops are to quickly inform the various villages."


    "Yes, sir!"


    "Yes, we will set off now."


    "Water God is dead. Haha, Water God is dead!"


    These soldiers were ecstatic. The captain and vice-captain rode horses while the troops followed with a brisk jog. Soon, eight troops split up and rushed to various villages to inform them of the news.


    Various inspection offices in Grand Dominance County received the letters by hawk, and all of them found it unbelievable. Some even roared with laughter before they quickly handed out the orders. Troops began leaving the inspection offices and rushed to the villages under their watch. Before noon of the second day, the news had spread to every village in Grand Dominance County.

 58 The Sky has Brightened Final Chapter of Volume

    After a storm, the trails outside Grand Dominance City were muddy.


    A horse carriage was stationed by a major road while Qin Yun''s family followed the muddy trail to his sister''s tomb, where her personal artifacts were contained.


    As she burned paper money, Changlan muttered softly amid tears.


    Qin Liehu was standing by the side, looking at the tomb in silence.


    As for Qin An, his family was together. His wife was whispering to the two children, "This is your little aunt¡­"


    Qin Yun looked at the name on the tomb¡ª"Qin Hongxiang."


    "Sister." Qin Yun said silently, "I have finally killed Water God. I have avenged you by killing him."


    ¡­


    "Fire!"


    Hundreds of soldiers sent out crossbow arrows tearing through the sky, enshrouding a particular mountain encampment. The demons in it fled in panic as their bodies crashed to the ground, revealing their true forms. There were many demons that hid behind the boulders in the mountain encampments.


    High in the sky, there was a red-dressed woman standing on a gigantic red gourd. She looked coldly beneath her. "Do you still want to put up a meaningless resistance?"


    "Phew¨C"


    The gigantic red gourd spewed out massive flames, immersing the area beneath her with an inferno. The entire mountain encampment was burning as the hiding and careful demons fled with shouts and cries before they were burned to their true forms.


    Some demons burrowed into the ground and others transformed into their true forms and hid in the cracks between the boulders deep in the mountains. They managed to survive.


    "How terrifying!"


    "Why do these cultivators have the nerve to slaughter us? Aren''t they afraid Water God would cause a flood, killing all of the humans?"


    "Didn''t you hear what the human military officers said? Water God is dead. He''s dead!"


    "What? Water God is dead? We''re doomed. Our good days are over!"


    It was said that demons lurked in the deep mountains and great lakes.


    Why?


    It was because demons had to hide there. If they kept a high profile, humans would think of means of vanquishing them! Only terrifying great demons had the heaven-defying strength of protecting themselves, leaving humans helpless. In the past, Water God was only at the Connate False Core realm. There was no lack of humans at the Connate Golden Core realm but he possessed an ancient water ape bloodline. It was impossible to kill him while he was beside the river. He could also cause floods, wiping out a village easily. Naturally, it made the imperial government dread him.


    ¡­


    The military began taking action throughout Grand Dominance County. They charged on horseback in every direction, sending crossbow arrows to mar the sky as they began their slaughters of fiendish demons.


    In certain critical areas facing strong resistance, Inspector Heaven Ambassadors would take action. They had profound Dharmic Dao so they were naturally able to easily vanquish the resistance.


    Without the threat of Water God''s floods, the imperial government had gone out in full force. How could the lesser demons withstand it? Instantly, more than seventy percent of the demons in Grand Dominance County were killed. The remaining lesser demons frantically ran deep into the mountains or lakes.


    "The days without human flesh are unbearable."


    "Bear with it. The military will eventually leave. They cannot engage in battle forever. When the time comes, we can come out in secret and capture some humans for eating." The demons began hiding.


    ******


    In various areas of Grand Dominance County, the convoys that were helplessly sending their village''s children to Water God also returned to their respective villages in great joy and excitement.


    "My son!"


    "Xiao Ya, Xiao Ya!"


    "Er''gou, Er''gou!" Families in various villages embraced the children that returned. They believed that their children would be eaten by demons. Now, they were all back, safe and sound.


    This was the first time it was happening after more than two centuries.


    As for Chang''er''s family at Heightened province, they also found their child back.


    The child shouted, "Father, Mother!"


    Xiao E hugged her child in excitement as tears streamed down her cheeks.


    Chang''er was watching by the side as his face flushed red from excitement. "The heavens have bestowed us with Its grace."


    The lanky man was watching the joy from the side. He muttered with reddened eyes, "In the future, we no longer have to deliver our children anymore. We have finally waited to this day! The sky of Grand Dominance County¡­ it has finally brightened! The sky has brightened!" He looked up into the sky but he was holding onto a red rope tightly.


    ¡­


    There was joy everywhere.


    The various villages, the provincial cities, and the county city!


    It was an excited joy that came from the deep recesses of the commoners'' hearts. The dark clouds that shrouded Grand Dominance County for more than two centuries had dissipated. Now, the celebrations exceeded that of a new year''s. Millions of citizens felt as though they were reborn.


    "The cultivators that killed Water God have done acts of great merit."


    "How infinitely compassionate and merciful are they."


    Countless people were feeling thankful.


    However, they did not know that over the past two centuries, many Postnatal realm cultivators had risked their lives to kill the crafty Water God and how many of them had lost their lives doing so. Only now through the combined efforts of Qin Yun, a peerless sword immortal and Yi Xiao, a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple, was Water God successfully slain.


    ******


    Grand Dominance City, night began falling.


    On the seventh floor of Cloud Restaurant, there was a table filled with delicacies in a high-class room.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were standing before a railing and watching down on Grand Dominance City. There were lit lanterns everywhere and the sound of firecrackers. There were rich merchants releasing fireworks, sending sparks into the sky, making Grand Dominance City appear to be a nightless city. Many children were carrying paper lanterns and playing in the city with their family. There were performers and acrobatic teams that hailed from afar coming to the city to perform. Some were even performing for free, while others were invited by rich families. They were all doing it to celebrate Water God''s death.


    It was extremely lively.


    "In the city, you can see people celebrating everywhere." Yi Xiao smiled. "I can sense the joy coming from deep within their hearts."


    "It''s been more than two centuries after all. Millions of citizens of Grand Dominance County have suffered too much. There has been too much blood and tears," said Qin Yun softly.


    "I''m really very happy to be able to help millions of ordinary commoners." Yi Xiao held onto the railing and beamed happily. "Today is the happiest day of my life."


    Qin Yun turned to look at Yi Xiao''s side profile and saw her beaming.


    He could always sense that there was a loneliness coming from Yi Xiao but now, she was smiling like a child.


    Qin Yun held the railing and looked at the euphoric Grand Dominance City. He said, "I''m very happy too. It''s been thirteen years. This is a scene that I have never dared dream of even in dreams. Now, it has happened before my very eyes."


    Yi Xiao turned to look at Qin Yun and smiled in return.


    ¡­


    Above the greatest lake in Jiang Prefecture, Cloud Lake, there was a massive island named Nine Mountain Island. There was a mountain range stretching across the island with numerous demons lurking in it.


    Deep in Nine Mountain Island, there was an opulent temple.


    White Tiger and the other demons were standing along the sides warily.


    "Phew¨C"


    There were immense amounts of black mists rising and coagulating in a seat of honor. Finally, the black mist condensed into a blurry black figure, eventually materializing into a black-robed man. He had blood-colored eyebrows and his eyes suffused a sanguine luster. He overlooked his disciples beneath him. White Tiger and the other demons immediately bowed respectfully, "Greetings, Island Lord."


    "Why was I disturbed from my cultivation?" The black-robed man said coldly as he looked down.


    A great demon took a step forward and said respectfully, "Master, Junior Brother Water God has been killed by cultivators!"


    "What?" The black-robed man''s expression sunk. An aura of death effused from him as an immense aura of suppression emanated. White Tiger and the other great demons felt a stifled shock.


    (End of Volume)

 59 Meeting

    Chapter 59: Meeting


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The black-robed man scanned the great demons beneath him. Under his blood-colored brows, rage filled his eyes. "Water Ape is dead? How is it possible?"


    "Master, it is true that Junior Brother Water God is dead." The demon who had reported the matter said immediately. "The humans have also mustered the troops at the fastest speed possible to fight on all fronts. Now in Grand Dominance, there are two Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. The humans have slaughtered many demons over the past few days. The other demons have also hidden deep in the mountains or lakes. They no longer dare to live like in the past."


    "Water Ape is dead¡­" The black-robed man fell silent.


    The imperial army was even deployed, as well as Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. There was no way that the news was faked.


    The demons standing below him did not dare utter a word. They knew that Water Ape was Nine Mountain Island Lord''s most beloved disciple. Water Ape called himself Water God and had also demanded that his fellow disciples call him Water God! Only their master, the Island Lord, called him Water Ape in such an endearing manner. He was, in fact, very supportive of Water God''s insufferable arrogance.


    "Who killed him?" The island lord looked down.


    "It''s still unknown."


    The demons could not provide an answer.


    "A bunch of incompetent fools." The island lord shouted. "Azure Ox."


    "Master." A brawny man came forward and answered politely. He was the island lord''s eldest disciple. He kept the lowest profile but he was already a great demon at the Connate True Core realm.


    "I''ll leave this matter to you. Investigate this matter and report to me in three days. Tell me who killed your junior brother," said the island lord.


    Azure Ox replied respectfully, "Yes, Master."


    Azure Ox knew very well why his master was in such a rage. One reason was his reputation! After all, his master was a great fiendish demon that was famous in the world. The second reason was that Water God controlled more than half the resources in Grand Dominance. The special items needed for Nine Mountain Island Lord''s cultivation were all provided by Water God. Typical great demons did not have the capability to control the lives of millions of humans. The reason why Water God was so favored was that of his usefulness. Now, having lost such a disciple, how could he not be mad?


    ******


    Dusk was setting in.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were strolling along the riverbank. Over the past few days, Qin Yun frequently brought Yi Xiao around to sample Grand Dominance County''s delicacies, which were, after all, rather famous in the world.


    "The Lanyang River''s Lightning Bladefish does deserve its reputation. I have eaten it before and found it very delicious. But now, it seems like it''s a lot more inferior than eating it in Grand Dominance," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "Lightning Bladedish is only found in this stretch of the Lanyang River in Grand Dominance County. If they are caught and delivered to an area thousands of miles away, its taste would be greatly different even if they were still alive. The restaurant I brought you today serves you the catches from the Lanyang River on the same day! It also uses the water from Grand Dominance, so it''s the most traditional rendition."


    "I see." Yi Xiao nodded. "Indeed, the delicacies in Jiangnan are extraordinary."


    "We cultivators have long lifespans. You can also stay in Jiangnan for an extended period of time," Qin Yun said with a laugh.


    Yi Xiao glanced at Qin Yun but did not say anything.


    "Giddy up! Giddy up!"


    From afar, Wen Chong rode a horse over. He had a group of subordinates accompanying him.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stopped and looked over.


    "Brother Qin, Miss Yi, it took me a while to find you." Wen Chong led his horse to their side and immediately dismounted it, leaving the horse to his subordinates.


    "To deal with Water God, Yi Xiao had not had the chance of sampling the delicacies of our Grand Dominance. I brought her around to try the various old restaurants," Qin Yun replied.


    When Wen Chong heard that, he immediately nodded. "Yes, yes. Grand Dominance''s delicacies are much better than my hometown''s! There are also many old restaurants in the county city that have been in business for more than a hundred years. Many a time, one has to go to these old restaurants to enjoy the authentic traditional Yet. However, the county city is so large that one might not be able to sample all the famous old restaurants even if they were given half a year."


    "We just had Lightning Bladefish today. It was really good." Yi Xiao smiled.


    "Yes!" Wen Chong nodded. "Lightning Bladefish is my favorite as well. Among all the fish-based delicacies¡­ it ranks in the top three."


    "Brother Wen, why were you rushing to look for us?" Qin Yun interrupted him and went straight to the point.


    Wen Chong laughed. "I nearly forgot my job. The two Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors are now in County Governor Manor. They wish to meet the two of you."


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    Wen Chong immediately said in hushed tones, "I have to tell you first. Out of the two Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors, one of them is an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, Daoist Red Jade, and the other is Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, Palatial Lord Essence Charm. I believe the two of you also know that the Inspector Heavenly Alliance is jointly made up by the Daoist and Buddhist sects, as well as the imperial government. Many cultivation experts have responsibilities as Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. The Inspector Heavenly Alliance also has immense power."


    "That I know." Qin Yun nodded. "Top cultivators in the world make up the Inspector Heavenly Alliance so as to fight the fiendish demons of the world."


    Yi Xiao added, "There are two Inspector Heavenly Ambassador ranks. An Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador can execute any official under the seventh grade that dares obstruct them! Even the county governor can''t do a thing about this. As for a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador¡­ they can execute any official under the fifth grade directly. All they need to do is file a report after the matter. Even the execution of a fifth-grade county governor would only result in some minor punishment. The Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors do have immense power."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Both the imperial government and cultivators protected humans! The combined forces of the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands were even higher than the imperial government.


    For a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, it would typically be helmed by a Connate Golden Core expert! If not, they were cultivators that had previously killed Connate Golden Core fiendish demons in the past! Either they had attained a particular realm or they had confirmed kills as their accolades. Therefore, any Purple-token or Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador had redoubtable and irrefutable strength.


    "Let''s cut it short and make haste." Wen Chong said. The guards had prepared two steeds for Qin Yun and Yi Xiao.


    "Alright." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao mounted their respective horses and rushed to County Governor Manor with Wen Chong.


    On the way, Yi Xiao transmitted her voice, "Brother Qin, out of these two Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors, Daoist Red Jade is a senior at the Connate True Core realm. She has cultivated for more than a century and her Dharma treasure, Crimson Fire Gourd, is extremely famous. It can release an inferno and her strength is at the peak of the Connate True Core realm. Although she''s an itinerant cultivator, she is not to be slighted. She has a hot temper and abhors evil."


    "As for the other Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, Palatial Lord Essence Charm, he enjoys an even higher status. He is a Connate Golden Core expert. He came to Grand Dominance probably because he is worried that the fiendish demons would counterattack out of indignation. Therefore, he came to maintain order. It is beneath him to deal with the lesser demons." Yi Xiao said with a voice transmission. "He is the Grand Elder of Scenic Mountain Sect, the only top cultivation sect in the Jiang Prefecture. He is also one of Jiang Prefecture''s only two Connate Golden Core experts. He is in control of Scenic Mountain Sect''s important heritage land, Essence Charm Palace."


    Qin Yun nodded and replied with a voice transmission. "I have long heard of Palatial Lord Essence Charm''s fame. After all, he is a top figure of Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world. According to what I know, Scenic Mountain Sect was once listed as a Daoist sacred land. Unfortunately, its strength has fallen drastically, making it only a top sect."


    "Yes." Yi Xiao agreed in her voice transmission. "Scenic Mountain Sect was once the world''s authority of talisman amulets. It was ranked alongside the Divine Firmament Chapter but unfortunately, it had engaged in a brutal battle with fiendish demons. Its mountain entrance had been overrun, causing its strength to fall drastically. But even so, its talisman amulet methods are still ranked in the top three worldwide."


    Qin Yun held the Scenic Mountain Sect in high esteem as well.


    However, he had received the Sword Immortal Legacy and was adept at sword arts and had no foundations in talisman amulets. Therefore, he had never gone to Scenic Mountain Sect.


    Scenic Mountain Sect was similarly, very stringent on the recruitment of its disciples.


    ¡­


    Soon, they arrived in County Governor Manor.


    Under Wen Chong''s lead, they came inside a hall. When Qin Yun and Yi Xiao entered, they saw a Daoist elder sitting in the seat of honor. He had white hair and a genial look. Sitting to his left was a red-dressed beauty who had a red gourd hanging by her waist. She smiled at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. And sitting to the right was the county governor.


    County Governor Wen immediately said, "Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, hurry up and greet these two seniors."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao immediately bowed. "Greetings Senior Essence Charm. Greetings Senior Red Jade."


    "Both of you have the strength and guts by killing that water ape as Postnatal realm cultivators!" Daoist Red Jade smiled as she praised them. "I hated that water ape to the bone. I tried dealing with him several times. I razed his manor countless times but he would hide into the Lanyang River every time. I could do nothing to him. Palatial Lord Essence Charm had taken action before too. However, that water ape was too crafty. Both of you are deserving of the cheers all cultivators in Jiang Prefecture."

 60 Exchange

    Chapter 60: Exchange


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "It was also because of the treasures bestowed by the sect," Yi Xiao quipped. "That''s how we managed to succeed in the kill."


    "I had only restrained Water God." Qin Yun said humbly. Matters regarding sword intent had to be kept secret. The fewer that knew about it, the better.


    The beautiful middle-aged woman, Daoist Red Jade shook her head. "There''s no need to be humble. To kill Water God before the Connate realm was done risking your lives! A slight mishap and you would have lost your lives. The two of you are young and have limitless potential, yet you had done such things. You have won my respect."


    "I''m also very impressed. After all, the both of you have saved millions of people in Grand Dominance County. The merits you accrued are immense." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile. "As for that water ape, its strength is rather ordinary on the shore but it possessed an ancient water ape bloodline. The moment it enters the water, its strength will not only increase severalfold, but its control of water also leaves us cultivators in the dust. Just a Connate False Core realm water ape has caused such a crisis. It''s no wonder that the terrifying water ape of ancient times had wreaked havoc in the world."


    "Both of you, have a seat. Don''t keep standing." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao obediently took their seats.


    In front of Palatial Lord Essence Charm, they remained extremely humble.


    Even the Misty Rain Sword Intent that Qin Yun was most pleased about was nothing to a Connate Golden Core cultivator. Every Connate Golden Core cultivator had to grasp the charms of the Heavenly Dao or they would not have achieved their Golden Core! There were even many of them who had insights into the Heavenly Dao that were more profound than Qin Yun''s. They had been cultivating for long periods of time and had cultivated the top Dharma spells with powerful Dharma treasures in hand. That was all sufficient to repress the light providence shone on a person or party.


    Only with a Connate Golden Core expert, capable of holding down the fort, could a sect be considered a top cultivation sect.


    Such a figure could kill a county governor and receive only a slight admonishment from the imperial government and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. Unless the imperial government was provoked, it would not easily lose decorum with a Connate Golden Core expert!


    "That water ape had a Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl," said Daoist Red Jade with a smile. "With it, a Dual Modal Waterheart Array could be set up. Complemented by the water ape''s talent in the water element, it allowed the water ape to sense everything in a five-kilometer radius with the array. If any living creature were to cross the boundary, they were detected. It''s even possible to determine the creature''s strength. And this Dual Modal Waterheart Array uses water vapor to permeate the surroundings. When cultivators like us come flying from a high altitude to kill him, he would sense us ahead of time. Immediately, he would escape into the Lanyang River."


    "This Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl is extremely useful for a junior of mine. My young friends, is it possible for you to separate from it?" Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile, "Of course, I will not take any advantage of you. If there''s anything you would like to exchange for it, feel free to let me know."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    The array set up by the Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl could only be so acutely sensed by someone with a heaven-defying bloodline like the water ape. The treasure itself was an eighth-grade Dharma treasure, something that Qin Yun had not much use for.


    "Senior Essence Charm, this is the Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl." Qin Yun removed the Cosmic Bag from his waist and took out a dark blue bead from inside.


    After Water God''s death, the treasures in the Cosmic Bag had been carefully identified by Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. They had managed to do so for about ninety percent of the items but there a few items whose value could not be determined. After all, Water God had a huge influence. His stash was in no way inferior to someone at the Connate True Core realm. The sixth-grade Dharma treasure, the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, was in Yi Xiao''s hands, while the rest were with Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun had carried the treasures along with him. He did not dare leave them at home.


    "There are some materials I need for the cultivation of my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun immediately handed the Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl over. "It will be great if there''s any Frost Soul Spiritual Liquid or Smokelike Water."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm laughed the moment he heard that. With a beckon of his hand, the Dual Modal Waterheart Pearl appeared in his hand. After examining it, he said with a smile, "That''s quite a coincidence. I happen to have some Smokelike Water with me. I''ll give it to you." As he said that, a transparent green bottle appeared in his hand. There were droplets of water flowing in the bottle like they were a mist that was stirring and billowing.


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    For his Intrinsic Flying Sword to reach the seventh-grade, there wasn''t a high requirement for metal-elemental items. All it needed was large quantities of them! However, the demands of water-elemental items were much higher and extremely rare. In fact, that was only for the seventh-grade.


    Dharma treasures had a total of nine grades.


    Eighth and ninth-grades were most common. The higher the grade, the harder it was to raise it. Despite all the accumulation he had, Water God''s Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was only a sixth-grade Dharma treasure! Daoist Red Jade had cultivated for more than a century; yet, her Crimson Fire Gourd was only a fifth-grade Dharma treasure.


    The green bottle was thrown at Qin Yun to which he caught. After taking a look, he immediately said, "There''s too much Smokelike Water."


    "It has already been given." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a chuckle.


    "Just accept it. A few of Old Man Essence Charm''s leg hair is thicker than your waist." Daoist Red Jade said with a laugh.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm immediately glared at her.


    Only then did Daoist Red Jade cover her mouth as she laughed.


    "By risking your lives, it was for countless citizens." Palatial Lord Essence Charm added. "Leave it at that. In the future, don''t risk your lives in such a manner. Both of you are very young with bright futures ahead of you. It''s best you enter the Connate realm as early as possible!"


    "Yes." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao listened to his advice attentively.


    "Alright, I have something on tonight. I''ll be out. Red Jade, inform me if there''s anything." Palatial Lord Essence Charm stood up.


    Daoist Red Jade stood up as well and nodded. "Don''t go too far out. You are needed in Grand Dominance."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be in Grand Dominance."


    As he smiled, Palatial Lord Essence Charm walked out. Once he was out in the yard, he transformed into a lightning bolt and instantly disappeared into the sky.


    "He has cultivated his Lightning Dharma to the stage of being able to transform into lightning. How fascinating." Yi Xiao could not help but mutter when she saw that. She too cultivated in Lightning Dharma.


    "Years ago, Scenic Mountain Sect was ranked equal to your Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. It was also an orthodox sect of talisman amulets. Its Dharma Lightning isn''t much different from your Divine Firmament Chapter''s. Even a rotten ship has three pounds of nails. The Scenic Mountain Sect still enjoys quite a good foundation." Daoist Red Jade said, "I''m tired too, so I''ll take my leave. You can come to County Governor Manor to look for me if there''s anything during this period." With that said, she headed out too.


    ¡­


    The county governor, Qin Yun, and Yi Xiao were walking alongside each other in County Governor Manor.


    "Qin Yun, Yi Xiao." The county governor said with a laugh. "Both of you are really my lucky stars. You helped me retrieve the spirit fruit and helped me kill Water God. Although I did not do a thing, Water God, who had wrecked havoc in Grand Dominance County for two centuries, was killed under my watch. This is very good for me politically. In the coming months, I will likely be promoted. When the time comes, I''ll be leaving Grand Dominance as well."


    Yi Xiao immediately said, "Uncle Wen, congratulations on your promotion."


    "Lord County Governor, congratulations on your promotion." Qin Yun said with a smile as well.


    "Haha¡­" The county governor laughed. "Speaking of which, I''m more envious of cultivators like you. One person is able to match an entire army. Your longevities are the envy of us mortals. For example, Senior Essence Charm had lived for more than three centuries.


    Yi Xiao said with a smile, "There are countless mortals in Grand Dominance County that envies you, Uncle Wen."


    "Indeed. There is always a limit to one''s desires. A man should be contented." The county governor chuckled. "Yi Xiao, there''s nothing much for me to talk about you. Qin Yun, with your present status¡­ the manor your father built might seem rather small. I had just prepared a manor for you. Tomorrow morning, Wen Chong will bring you there! Consider it a tiny gift before I leave."


    Qin Yun did not reject it. Instead, he immediately said, "Thank you, I''ll be accepting it."


    Qin Yun was rather sentimental when it came to the old Qin Manor. After all, he had grown up there in his youth. However, it was indeed a little cramp at the moment! There was insufficient space for him to practice his flying sword arts. In the future, he would face stronger enemies as he grew stronger. He would need to set up array formations to protect the family but space would be a concern. Even if the county governor had not arranged for it, he would have purchased one himself. After all, his Cosmic Bag had more than a million taels of silver.


    "Haha." The county governor looked at Qin Yun and then Yi Xiao. He patted Qin Yun on the shoulder before leaving.


    He felt that Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had become closer after they dealt with Water God.


    However, he had reminded Qin Yun once, so there was no need for him to repeat his exhortations.

 61 Calm before the Storm

    Chapter 61: Calm before the Storm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Early the next day, Wen Chong eagerly brought Qin Yun to tour the manor.


    "Brother Qin, my father had gone through great efforts to obtain this manor. Two of the five large manors by the eastern lakeside belong to my Wen family. We bought the surrounding three through great difficulty. The walls have been demolished to form a massive manor. Part of the lake is located within the manor. In all of Grand Dominance County, such a manor would probably be ranked in the top three." Wen Chong said. Qin Yun was astonished when he saw it. He knew that the county governor would not skim on it but still, he was surprised.


    Such a manor was not something that could be bought with money alone. The wealthy owners of the other manors might not put it up for sale easily. Power was needed.


    Only the county governor could accomplish it in a matter of days.


    Qin Yun also knew why¡­


    For the county governor to do this, it was partly to show his gratitude for helping retrieve the spirit fruit and giving him his promotion through the slaying of Water God. Another reason was that he was trying to build up close ties with him. After all, a manor was quite a permanent residence. As long as he lived in it, he would remember that the manor had been given by County Governor Wen. It was much better to give something that could make one recall their friendship easily than other treasures.


    "Brother Wen, help me thank the county governor," said Qin Yun.


    "Haha, as long as you are satisfied." Wen Chong laughed as well.


    That day, the Qin family came to look at the manor and were very satisfied.


    Previously, Qin Manor had been considered too small. Qin An had moved out after his marriage, firstly for the convenience of his business, and secondly, due to the small size of the manor. There were too many inconveniences.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s family quickly began moving house.


    His mother, Changlan, was walking within the manor as she brushed her fingers across the peeling corridor walls. She was all too familiar with the corridor. She could walk through it with her eyes closed.


    The servants were moving vases and other artifacts.


    Changlan immediately pointed at an old table and other items inside the room and said, "Bring them. Take these as well."


    "Mother, there''s no need to bring this old table along." Qin Yun walked over and could not help but say, "It''s already so old and broken."


    "What do you know? You would eat at this table after you finished your sword practice when you were young. How can it be thrown away wantonly?" Changlan was nearly fifty years old. As she grew older, she could not part with many of the old furniture.


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    Many of the old items could not be used but they were still brought along.


    "Brother, let Mother bring whatever she wants. Also, there are many things in there that were used when you were a youth! Items used by an immortal like you cannot be wantonly thrown away. Mother might not want it, but I would want it." Qin An said with a laugh. "Do you believe that I would be able to sell any of these items at a high price if I were to auction them? I could say that it''s a weapon rack that my second brother used back when he practiced his swordsmanship."


    Qin Yun was taken aback and could not help but say, "Brother, you really live up to being a businessman."


    There were many servants and with the county governor sending men to help in the relocation, chests of items were constantly moved to the new residence. In a day, the relocation was completed.


    Serious matters like moving to a bigger place naturally needed a banquet to be held. The Qin family began preparations and decided to hold it three days later.


    *****


    Cloud Lake. On Nine Mountain Island.


    In an opulent hall.


    A black-robed man coagulated his figure in a seat of honor as he looked down.


    "Master." Azure Ox respectfully bowed. "I have already investigated the cultivators that had killed Junior Brother Water God."


    "Who are they?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked.


    Azure Ox said, "According to information obtained from the humans'' imperial government, it was a Divine Firmament Chapter sect mission undertaken by a disciple by the name of Yi Xiao. With treasures bestowed by the sect, she was aided by a local cultivator of Grand Dominance County, Qin Yun. The two of them are cultivators that have not reached the Connate realm. Junior Brother Water God had thought nothing of them but eventually perished under their hands."


    "Divine Firmament Chapter?" Nine Mountain Island Lord''s pupils constricted. He grunted. "I knew it. With Water Ape''s carefulness, it''s not that easy for the humans to kill him. So it''s because the Divine Firmament Chapter was scheming in the background! It sure is willing to risk the possibility of a disciple dying. They actually succeeded despite the risk."


    "By the way, is there anything special about the background of these two cultivators?" Nine Mountain Island directly asked. "It''s not like it''s the first or second time the humans have plotted against Water Ape. Why did it succeed this time?"


    Azure Ox replied reverentially, "Master, Divine Firmament Chapter''s disciple Yi Xiao is only nineteen years old. She''s also a member of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family.


    "Member of the Yi family?" Nine Mountain Island Lord frowned slightly.


    That was a massive juggernaut.


    The Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family¡­ Just the influence that one family had was enough to leave the imperial government and demons in fear.


    "As for Qin Yun, he''s rather mysterious." Azure Ox frowned. "After all my investigations, I can confirm that Qin Yun is a sword immortal. At fifteen, he was the number one person of the Grand Dominance County''s younger generation. However, he did not enter any of the sects in the Jiang Prefecture. Instead, he left his family to roam the world¡­ for six years. I found out that he had stayed in the northern borders for three years and had killed hundreds of demons on the battlefields. As for which sect he is from? That''s unknown. However, since he''s a sword immortal, there aren''t that many sects possible."


    "Sword immortal?" Nine Mountain Island Lord grunted.


    Sword immortals usually had the most kills. Against fiendish demons, sword immortals would always be leading the charge.


    "By the way, when Junior Brother White Tiger lost his arm previously, it was cleaved off by that sword immortal. Back then, he had jointly dealt with Junior Brother White Tiger with that Yi Xiao as well." Azure Ox said.


    "Get White Tiger here." Nine Mountain Island ordered.


    A subordinate immediately passed the orders.


    As White Tiger had been in the vicinity recuperating, with his injuries nearly recovered, he immediately went to meet his master upon being commanded.


    "White Tiger, how strong are Qin Yun and Yi Xiao?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked.


    White Tiger was taken aback before he honestly said, "That Qin Yun only relied on a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure before he could match me. If not for it, I could have split him apart with a single hand! As for that female cultivator, Yi Xiao, she was barely able to cast Divine Lightning Spells¡­ In terms of strength, she''s probably weaker than Qin Yun."


    "They managed to kill Water Ape with that bit of strength? It looks like the Divine Firmament Chapter had given her pretty good items." Nine Mountain Island Lord sneered. He waved his hand and said, "Alright, you may leave."


    "Yes." White Tiger obediently retreated.


    There was only Nine Mountain Island Lord and Azure Ox, as well as two demons that guarded the entrance to the hall.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord said with a deep tone, "Azure Ox."


    "Master." Azure Ox replied politely.


    "You also know that my cultivation requires the blood of children''s hearts. It has always been gathered for me by your junior brother, Water Ape." Nine Mountain Island Lord''s eyes suffused a sanguine luster. "Now that he is dead, it''s fine if we lose face. However, the blood of the children would be problematic¡­ I know that Water Ape was very ambitious. He had always been negotiating with me. I have estimated the amount of blood he gives me every year from the children he captures from Grand Dominance County. He probably still has a large quantity of the blood hidden on him."


    Azure Ox nodded. "With his character, he will definitely hide a lot of it. He will definitely not produce it without receiving sufficient benefits."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord might favor his disciple on the surface but it was because he had no choice.


    He needed his disciple to give him large quantities of blood from the hearts of children.


    "Now that he is dead, the blood that he has accumulated must be in the hands of Yi Xiao and Qin Yun." Nine Mountain Island Lord said, "It''s possible that to them, it''s only blood. They probably can''t tell how precious it is. Furthermore, Yi Xiao is a woman from a large family clan. She will probably abhor such blood, so it''s very likely to be given to Qin Yun."


    "Yes." Azure Ox responded subserviently.


    "Azure Ox, I always feel assured when you are the one helming a task." Nine Mountain Island Lord ordered, "Feel free to use the demonic slaves I have. There is only one request. You are to bring back the blood of the hearts."


    "Is the Yi family member to be killed too?" Azure Ox could not help but ask.


    "Yes!" Nine Mountain Island Lord grunted.


    "But the temper of the Yi family''s patriarch¡­" Azure Ox said worriedly.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord scoffed. "Humans and demons have been battling for ages. A large family clan like the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family has numerous children and grandchildren. If a junior were to die, would the Yi family patriarch really want to fight a war with my Cloudfiend Mountain?"


    "Of course!" Nine Mountain Island Lord hesitated before saying, "Kill that Qin Yun first. If the blood cannot be found on him, then kill Yi Xiao to obtain it."


    "I got it." Azure Ox said respectfully.

 62 Ninth Son of the Hong Family

    Chapter 62: Ninth Son of the Hong Family


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the old manor of Grand Dominance County''s number one family, the Hong family.


    The eldest son of the Hong family came outside a house, where the maidservant standing guard outside nodded slightly at him. He spoke aloud, "Ninth Brother, can I come in?"


    "Come on in." An aloof and calm voice sounded from inside.


    "Creak."


    He pushed open the door and when he turned his head, he immediately saw a handsome youth sitting on a bed cross-legged. The handsome youth opened his eyes slowly as a stream of light subtly flashed across him. He looked at the visitor and said, "Elder Brother, is everything done?"


    "What needs to be done has been done." His elder brother nodded.


    His ninth brother was a concubine''s son and did not enjoy a great prestige in the Hong family.


    However, he was extremely clever. After he became a disciple of an itinerant cultivator, he finally became a cultivator after knocking open the gate of immortality. The Hong family was immediately overjoyed! Without further ado, they nurtured him as a pillar of the Hong family. The ascendence of the Hong family was largely due to Lord Prefecture Overseer, so it was no doubt better to rely on oneself than on others. The ninth son of the Hong family was the first cultivator it produced! In the past, the cultivators that it had treated with reverence were outsiders.


    "Great." The handsome youth immediately got off the bed. "Let''s not delay this any further. Let''s set off to meet fellow Daoist Qin."


    "Why the rush?" His elder brother asked. "Ninth Brother, the Qin family will invite everyone to the banquet in two days. Why don''t we wait till then?"


    "It will be too late. I''m afraid it will be taken away by others." The handsome youth shook his head. "Let''s set off now."


    "Alright." The elder brother kept his mouth shut.


    Although he was a legitimate son, his ninth brother was the pillar that would assure the Hong family''s future success.


    ¡­


    The Hong family convoy traveled through the streets as a mighty contingent. People immediately made way when they recognized the Hong family, afraid of offending them.


    However, an embroidered-robed middle-aged man went up and knelt down. "First Young Master Hong!"


    The horseback recipient frowned. "Manager Liu, what''s the meaning of this?"


    "I was at fault. I had spoken without thought while drunk. I was dumb. Please spare me!" The middle-aged man pleaded.


    "I do not know what you are talking about." First Young Master Hong sneered.


    "As long as you return my restaurant to me, I will definitely return the money I owe. I will never forget First Young Master Hong''s kindness!" The middle-aged man pleaded again.


    However, a voice came from the carriage behind. "Brother, hurry up."


    "Take him away!" First Young Master Hong shouted.


    Immediately, two guards went forward and dragged the middle-aged man to the side.


    There was a flurry of discussion along the two sides of the street.


    "I heard that Manager Liu lost his restaurant at the gambling den."


    "Who is to blame for his gambling vice?"


    "I heard that he had offended First Young Master Hong with his words after he became drunk. First Young Master Hong probably does not know of this matter; however, the high official, Nine Fingers, at the gambling den had made him lose his restaurant in order to gain favor with First Young Master Hong."


    "He sure has guts! He actually dared to offend the Hong family in Grand Dominance? Isn''t that courting death?"


    The convoy continued heading forward.


    First Young Master Hong did not even bother to take another glance. The ones that would take the initiative to befriend him in Grand Dominance City was Wen Chong or cultivators like Young Master Qin. Even so-called scions wanted to ingratiate themselves with him, so how could he think anything of Manager Liu. Furthermore, it was a subordinate that had done it in order to curry favor with him.


    Soon.


    They came to a Qin Manor which was beside a mirror-like lake.


    Ninth Brother alighted his carriage as well.


    "What a magnificent Qin Manor." First Young Master Hong could not help but say when he saw it. "Ninth Brother, I heard that this Qin Manor was bought by the county governor himself. It combines five different compounds. Even a large portion of the lake is within the manor''s confines! It''s only slightly smaller than our Hong family''s. However, there aren''t many guards standing by the entrance despite it being such a large compound."


    However, the handsome man went up to the entrance and knocked on the door.


    The door opened and Uncle Li looked out.


    "The Hong family''s ninth son, Hong Lingtong, wishes to meet Second Young Master Qin. Please inform him." The handsome man said with a smile.


    "Alright." Uncle Li responded with a smile and immediately delegated someone to send the message.


    Hong Lingtong stood by the door while his elder brother stood by the side.


    In a while, the door opened.


    Qin Yun walked out in an ordinary bluish-gray outfit. He smiled when he saw the situation, "First Young Master Hong, is this the Ninth Young Master, Hong Lingtong?"


    "He''s my ninth brother." First Young Master Hong said with a grin.


    The moment Hong Lingtong saw Qin Yun, he felt his heart palpitate. He had an ancient and special tortoiseshell floating in his dantian. There were cracks on the shell and it was vibrating, giving him information. Hong Lingtong could not help but be alarmed. "This person is not to be offended? If he is offended, great peril will befall? With my life-preservation means, even if I''m not his match, I wouldn''t die as long as the rumors of this Qin Yun being White Tiger''s match are true. Could it be that his strength is greater than what the rumors speak of?"


    "Greetings, Young Master Qin." Hong Lingtong bowed his body slightly as a form of respect.


    Qin Yun immediately held him up and said, "We are all fellow cultivation Daoists. I do not deserve such a bow."


    "Young Master Qin, you deserve it for what you have done for Grand Dominance County." Hong Lingtong said with a Quintessential Essence voice transmission.


    Qin Yun was surprised.


    The news of him and Yi Xiao killing Water God had not been made public. However, it wasn''t necessarily a surprise that the Hong family had learned of it.


    "Please." Qin Yun led the way.


    Hong Lingtong and his brother followed in. Behind, there were beautiful maidservants who carried boxes of gifts.


    ¡­


    At a quiet courtyard, Qin Yun, Hong Lingtong and his brother sat down.


    "First Young Master Hong, might I know why you and your ninth brother are here for?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "I heard that Brother Qin and a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple had jointly slain Water God. You have got rid of Grand Dominance County''s scourge. I''m very impressed." Hong Lingtong said. "To be honest, my greatest wish after knocking open the gate of immortality was to kill Water God; however, I was lacking in strength. As for my visit today, I will not lie. I do have a request."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong.


    He had heard of him.


    Hong Lingtong had become a disciple of an itinerant cultivator and had knocked open the gate of immortality. His Dharmic Dao and array techniques were rather intricate.


    "I learned that after Water God''s death, the Anchor Cloudchain is in Brother Qin''s hands?" Hong Lingtong asked.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Yes."


    "I wish to have this Anchor Cloudchain." Hong Lingtong said.


    "The Anchor Cloudchain is an eighth-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun remarked.


    Any Dharma treasure was very expensive. For a family clan like the Hong family that had not had time to accumulate its riches could, at best, only be able to buy an eighth or ninth-grade Dharma treasure by selling all its possessions. And the sale was dependent on the cultivator''s agreement!


    Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "Naturally, I would be fair to you."


    "Pa! Pa! Pa!"


    Hong Lingtong gently clapped his hands.


    Two beautiful maidservants walked into the yard. They carried boxes of gifts and they placed it on a stone table before opening them. One of the boxes contained an intricate Fire Coral and the other box contained a fist-sized pearl. They were very precious items.


    "I know that Brother Qin has just moved so you might be short on manpower. These two maidservants will also be yours. Both of them are still virgins." Hong Lingtong said with a smile. The two maidservants were handpicked beauties by the Hong family. They were in no way worse than renowned courtesans.


    "Of course, these are only gifts."


    Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "I would like to exchange with Brother Qin for the Anchor Cloudchain. It will be a ninth-grade flying sword Dharma treasure, as well as five hundred thousand taels of silver!"


    "A flying sword Dharma treasure?" Qin Yun''s heart was stirred.

 63 Can鈥檛 Afford to Offend

    Chapter 63: Can¡¯t Afford to Offend


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    If it were any ninth-grade Dharma treasure, Qin Yun would not necessarily be willing to do the exchange.


    However, a flying sword Dharma treasure was a lot more beneficial to him. While fighting with enemies, an Intrinsic Flying Sword could kill his enemies at a distance! Likewise, his enemies could also cast Dharmic spells or other means to deal with him. Therefore, he needed a flying sword Dharma treasure to be by his side, protecting him. Besides, with certain flying sword arts, many flying swords could be controlled at the same time. With the Intrinsic Flying Sword as the main lead, the other flying swords would complement it, forming a sword formation!


    It would be no different from being besieged by a group of sword immortals. The effect was also excellent.


    "Flying sword Dharma treasure?" Qin Yun said with a smile, "Ninth Brother Hong, can I take a look at this flying sword Dharma treasure?"


    "Naturally."


    Hong Lingtong focused his mind.


    Phew.


    A sword in a scabbard by his waist slowly flew out and appeared by Qin Yun''s side.


    Qin Yun held it in hand. The flying sword was completely black in color and looked ordinary. Qin Yun injected a wisp of Quintessential Essence carefully into the flying sword and sensed the icy coldness the flying sword exuded.


    "This is a refined flying sword Dharma treasure made mainly of Blackcloud Frost Metal?" Qin Yun nodded. "The refinement method is rather ordinary and there''s nothing special about it. However, it''s still quite acceptable."


    "If it were a powerful flying sword Dharma treasure, it would not be at the ninth-grade." Hong Lingtong said with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    There were two kinds of flying swords.


    The first kind was refined just like other Dharma treasures! Typically, they would need extremely precious materials and extremely high blacksmithing skills to successfully forge one. Such flying sword Dharma treasures were more reminiscent of ordinary Dharma treasures. For example, during the refinement process, illusionary techniques could be imbued into it, causing the flying sword to produce illusions when used. There were some flying swords that contained lightning. Once used, there would be lightning accompanying it, with tremendous might.


    Such flying sword Dharma treasures came in all shapes and sizes! The outcome was completely determined by the blacksmith expert.


    The second kind was the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was nurtured inside one''s dantian, using Quintessential Essence and the soul to cultivate it. Gradually, it would absorb all sorts of precious essence and mature, just like the growth of a tiny tree sapling! One mysterious aspect of an Intrinsic Flying Sword came from sword intent. Sword intent was a manifestation of the Heavenly Dao. By using one''s sword intent to nurture an Intrinsic Flying Sword, it naturally imbued the Intrinsic Flying Sword with a sword intent that was more suitable to the user during its growth. For example, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Intent would nurture the Intrinsic Flying Sword and over time, the Intrinsic Flying Sword could also be known as a Misty Rain Flying Sword.


    As it was nurtured using the soul and sword intent, the power that it delivered would reach a perfect epitome.


    Although it was not as myriad as the first kind of flying sword, its strength would be two grades higher! It was sufficient to make cultivators extremely envious. After all, most cultivators had no means to cultivate an intrinsic Dharma treasure.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded, "This Anchor Cloudchain is yours."


    With that said, he waved his hand and the chain that was coiled around his wrist flew towards Hong Lingtong.


    Hong Lingtong was delighted when he received it. He was unable to use sword arts so a flying sword Dharma treasure was not much use with him. However, the Anchor Cloudchain could extend to hundreds of feet long and be as small as a chain that wrapped around his finger. Together with his attainments in formation techniques, he could produce great strength with the Anchor Cloudchain. As for using the chain to bind enemies and lash at them like Water God? Hong Lingtong felt that was too dumb a move.


    "This flying sword is also yours. And here''s the banknotes worth five hundred thousand taels of silver." Hong Lingtong took a cloth bag from his brother and opened it to reveal stacks of notes.


    First Young Master Hong was feeling the pinch as he watched the transaction.


    This time¡­


    The Hong family had nearly used all its existing cash flow. Even though the Hong family was the number one family in Grand Dominance County and had a wealth that amounted to a million taels of silver, most of it were in land or hard assets. It was still difficult for them to amass that much cash. It was only because the Hong family was extremely impressed with what Hong Lingtong had showcased over the past few years that they were willing to give him that much money.


    "I have something to trouble First Young Master Hong." Qin Yun took the cloth bag and scanned the bank notes to ascertain the correct amount.


    "Trouble me?" First Young Master Hong was taken aback as he immediately urged, "Brother Qin, feel free to speak your mind."


    Qin Yun took out more than half of the notes, worth three hundred thousand taels of silver from the cloth bag and said, "I need a hundred kilograms of Three-colored Silver, five kilograms of Purple Gold Dust. Are three hundred thousand taels of silver enough?"


    Upon hearing that, First Young Master Hong immediately said, "It''s enough!"


    Qin Yun did not take advantage of the circumstances. The amount he offered was definitely easy to amass the required materials. As for the large quantity that was needed by Qin Yun, the Three-colored Silver could be distilled from ordinary silver and Purple Gold Dust could also be distilled from ordinary gold. Only the Hong family with its great social connections could amass large amounts of Three-colored Silver and Purple Gold Dust in a short period of time.


    "Great, I got back three hundred thousand worth of silver almost instantly. As for the Three-colored Silver and Purple Gold Dust, I can think of a way." First Young Master Hong began contemplating. As the legitimate son, he was the heir apparent of the Hong family. Of course, Hong Lingtong was the foundation of the family.


    "Also, bring these two women back with you." Qin Yun advised.


    When First Young Master Hong heard that, he immediately said, "Brother Qin, you can keep them to serve you tea too."


    "Bring them back." Qin Yun repeated.


    Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "Brother, bring them back."


    First Young Master Hong grumbled, "Alright then, it''s a surprise that you don''t even want beauties that are given to you. Brother Qin, it''s not like cultivators do not need women."


    Qin Yun was somewhat at a loss for words when he heard that.


    The two beautiful maidservants also looked curiously at Qin Yun. After all, the transactions from before involved hundreds of thousands of taels of silver and legendary Dharma treasures of immortals! Their beauty was the cream of the crop in the Hong residence and they had been nurtured well. Yet, they had been rejected as gifts?


    ¡­


    The Hong family left.


    Qin Yun kept the remaining items and shouted, "Ah Gui. Ah Fu!"


    "Coming!"


    Two servants outside the yard ran in.


    "Go, bring these two boxes to my mother." Qin Yun instructed.


    When the two servants saw the Fire Coral and a huge pearl inside the boxes, their eyes lit up. Although they were worth only a few thousand taels of silver, they were rare treasures that were rarely seen! The two servants immediately carried the two boxes away carefully to bring them to Changlan.


    Qin Yun pondered, "I now have the Smokelike Water I got from Senior Essence Charm. The Three-colored Silver and Purple Gold Dust are likely to be gathered in half a month''s time. As for White Tiger''s axe, there are still a few hundred kilograms left to refine. If I get Wen Chong to help me buy another two to three hundred thousand taels of precious materials, it should be sufficient to refine my Intrinsic Flying Sword to the seventh-grade!"


    Dharma treasures at the seventh to ninth grade were relatively better in each grade but even so, Qin Yun had to pay a tremendous price for it.


    If it were to reach the sixth-grade? Or even higher? That price would be ridiculous.


    Water God had haggled with his master, Nine Mountain Island Lord, yet his Blackwater Oxhorn Trident was only a sixth-grade Dharma treasure! This was why Yi Xiao believed that she had taken advantage of him. Hence, she had left all the spoils of war to Qin Yun and did not want any of the remaining items.


    ******


    Hong family.


    Old Master Hong was sitting around anxiously when he saw his sons walk in.


    "Lingtong, how was it?" Old Master Hong immediately walked forward. He knew that his ninth son had gone to make a trade, using all the available cash the Hong family had.


    "It was a success!" Hong Lingtong said with a smile. "With the Anchor Cloudchain in hand, even if it''s Commander Fang, Master Meixia, or White Tiger, I''ll be able to fight them."


    Old Master Hong''s eyes lit up as he looked joyous.


    The strength that stemmed from the family was most reliable!


    "Brother, wouldn''t you be even more powerful when you enter the Connate realm?" First Young Master Hong said immediately.


    "Father, Brother." Hong Lingtong advised, "It can be anyone else in Grand Dominance County, but Qin Yun¡­ is not to be offended!"


    Old Master Hong and First Young Master Hong were taken aback.


    His brother could not help but ask, "Isn''t Qin Yun about White Tiger''s match?"


    "We cannot afford to offend him." Hong Lingtong turned and left. "Father, Brother, just remember that." According to what he sensed, even with the Anchor Cloudchain, he might not be able to escape if Qin Yun wanted him dead! However, to be able to figure that out had to do with the secret immortal heritage he had. He naturally could not go into the details.


    Old Master Hong and First Young Master Hong were stunned.


    Cannot afford to offend him?


    "In what way should we not offend him?" First Young Master Hong asked out of curiosity.


    "It likely has to do with the master or sect that''s backing him." Old Master Hong said. "Anyways, listen to your brother. There''s absolutely no harm in doing so."


    Matters that happened in the past few years had proved one point. There was no mistake when it came to listening to Hong Lingtong!


    ¡­


    At noon, under the scorching sun of summer, there were a few scattered boats on the tiny mirror-like lake. On one of them, there were two men and a woman. They were leisurely rowing the boat as they cast their gazes in a particular direction. There was a luxurious mansion there that assimilated a portion of the lake.


    "That''s Qin Manor."


    "Let''s enter and kill that Qin Yun and find the children blood that Island Lord wants."

 64 Enemy Assaul

    Chapter 64: Enemy Assault


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Above a lake that resembled a huge mirror, two men and a woman were casually rowing a boat, which was reflected by the lake''s surface like a beautiful portrait.


    The trio was also observing the happenings in Qin Manor.


    "There isn''t much security." The only woman was dressed in a pink robe. She laughed as she covered her mouth and simultaneously said with a voice transmission, "In a while, Bladesman, you will cast an Invisibility Spell to bring us in. Once we infiltrate it and find Qin Yun, Old Venomous Creature, you will immediately release your venom. Bladesman and I will immediately launch our collective assault."


    "About releasing the venom, rest assured." A middle-aged man that was dressed in black servant garb said with a voice transmission. "Hehe, once the venom is released, the humans within a thousand foot radius would definitely die. Most of the humans in this Qin Manor will be dead and even if that Qin Yun doesn''t die immediately, he would be so severely injured that he will not be able to put up any resistance."


    Another youth that was sitting across the woman chuckled with a voice transmission. "He''s only a sword immortal that has yet to enter the Connate realm who is at White Tiger''s strength. All he can do is engage in melee sword arts. Any one of the three of us can deal with him. With our joint efforts¡­ he wouldn''t even have a chance to retaliate!"


    "Alright."


    The middle-aged man that was dressed as a servant nodded as well.


    "Alright."


    "Alright."


    As they rowed the boat, the boat slowly approached the shore.


    The trio disembarked the boat and came to a shady spot under the trees. No other person could see them. The three of them silently vanished through the casting of an Invisibility Spell. They had easily infiltrated Qin Manor! The three guards that were responsible for guarding the area that faced the lake did not discover a thing. Two of them were chatting and one of them was napping.


    ¡­


    A quiet yard in Qin Manor was left to Qin Yun. Without his permission, no one from the residence could enter. Even if his parents wanted to enter, they would need to inform him ahead of time¡­ After all, Qin Yun might be cultivating in Dharma spells so trespassing was forbidden.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass.


    "Before my breakthrough, the release of my psyche could only reach about fifty to sixty feet. After achieving Heaven Man Unity, my psyche can go as far as a hundred and twenty feet." Qin Yun closed his eyes to sense the area. With himself as the center, he could see everything clearly in a hundred and twenty feet radius. Even a speck of dust could be ''seen'' clearly. It was much clearer than the naked eye.


    As for regions beyond a hundred and twenty feet¡­


    It was a blurry stretch. However, one could sense the vast energies contained within the world, and could also sense the auras of various lifeforms. All the living auras could be sensed in a five-kilometer radius, a result of attaining Heaven Man Unity. Perhaps, there were cultivators with extremely high cultivation levels that could avoid being detected by Heaven Man Unity but typical humans and demons were unable to do so.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun opened his eyes and with a thought, a sword by his waist unsheathed itself. It was the ninth-grade flying sword that he had received from Hong Lingtong.


    The black flying sword circled around Qin Yun.


    "Using this ninth-grade flying sword to protect me would be better than ordinary divine weapons. At least, it is at the level of a Dharma treasure." With Qin Yun''s mental directions, the worldly powers gathered onto that one sword, forming abstruse runic patterns.


    "Sword kinesis, go!"


    Sou!


    The black sword also transformed into a stream of light and flew afar before it circled around a large tree by the corner wall of the compound before flying back. It wantonly whistled through the yard.


    Qin Yun closed his eyes.


    Sword kinesis arts allowed sword immortals to focus their psyche on the flying sword, and through the flying sword, be able to clearly see their surroundings. However, it was only able to do so for a two hundred feet radius!


    "Without the restrictions of a body, the psyche range is still so small." Qin Yun shook his head. With a thought, the black flying sword flew back to his side and sheathed itself.


    "Out."


    He extended his hand and a sword beam flew out from his fingertip, transforming into a silver flying sword.


    This was what an Intrinsic Flying Sword was.


    He used his sword kinesis simultaneously.


    Woosh!


    The silver flying sword circled the entire yard in a flash. It was much faster than the black flying sword.


    "Through the flying sword, my psyche senses are much stronger." This time, Qin Yun could sense that most of his psyche was fused with his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Through it, he could survey the surroundings and see nearly a thousand feet out. It was much better than the black flying sword.


    In terms of psyche range, the human body''s senses were the weakest. As the body needed to protect the soul, it made it very difficult for the soul to sense the surroundings. It would be pretty impressive just being able to sense a region of a hundred and twenty feet.


    Through sword kinesis, one''s psyche could be infused into the flying sword. A flying sword would not have any obstructions to the psyche and its range would be much larger.


    For the black flying sword, his psyche could only extend to about two hundred feet.


    However, an Intrinsic Flying Sword could extend to a thousand feet!


    Therefore¡­


    The legendary Connate Golden Core sword immortals could send their flying swords flying to five hundred kilometers away. Such a long distance was not something the naked eye could perceive. Even Heaven Man Unity could only vaguely sense energy fluctuations. So how was one able to kill the enemy? By condensing one''s psyche on the flying sword, the flying sword would become like an avatar. The release of one''s psyche senses could then clearly see one''s surroundings, so a flying sword was able to naturally strike out precisely, killing the enemy.


    ¡­


    "Oh?"


    As Qin Yun was engaging in his flying sword arts, hoping to improve the fusion of his Misty Rain Sword Intent into his flying sword arts, his expression suddenly changed slightly.


    As he was maintaining Heaven Man Unity, he could clearly sense three auras secretly entering Qin Manor from the lake.


    "Three auras have infiltrated my Qin Manor? Who are they?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Heaven Man Unity''s advantage was its wide radius but it could not distinguish human from demon. Dharma Eyes were needed for distinguishment!


    "I''ll take a look."


    Qin Yun got up and headed in that direction.


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Phew.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword hung close to the ground and flew forward ahead of him.


    Through the Intrinsic Flying Sword, his psyche could clearly ''see'' a thousand feet radius of the surroundings. Soon, Qin Yun''s psyche quickly ''saw'' the three figures. They were still cloaked under invisibility but it only prevented detection from the naked eye. However, his psyche probe could clearly sense the demonic characteristics of the three figures.


    A pink-dressed demoness had a hideous scorpion tail. Clearly, she was a venomous scorpion demoness.


    There was a male demon with a red robe draped over him. His face and arms were covered in green fur.


    The last demon was covered in a purple carapace. It also had six hands, and each hand held a blade.


    "Venomous scorpion demoness. That green-furred demon looks like he''s covered in venom. And the last demon has six arms? From the looks of it, they are no ordinary demons." Qin Yun tensed up when he discovered the green-furred demon. He knew that when some demons released their venom, it could kill a lot of people. This was his home!


    "Die!" Against these armed demons that had secretly infiltrated his residence under invisibility, Qin Yun could not be bothered to speak further. He would kill them silently without any interrogation.


    The first target was the venomous demon.


    Phew!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword noiselessly flew over. Due to the rockery and trees that lined the manor''s corridors, these three demons did not notice a thing. The Intrinsic Flying Sword came behind a rockery and quietly hovered in wait.


    Woosh.


    The three demons proceeded.


    "According to the intelligence of Qin Manor''s layout, Qin Yun should be in the west wing." The three demons advanced and communicated through voice transmissions. They did not move fast, afraid of causing a stir. Even though the servants in the manor were about twenty to thirty feet away, they failed to discover the demons passing by.


    Approaching! Approaching!


    The three demons were very close to the rockery.


    "Whew!"


    The silver flying sword that had been hovering in the grass beneath the rockery instantly moved, transforming into a stream of light.


    "Bam!"


    The black-robed demon with green fur suddenly widened its eyes. The sudden assault on it at such close distance was undefendable. A silver sword beam penetrated his head and immediately headed for the venomous scorpion demoness. As one demon had been killed, the demoness had the time to parry the attack. She brandished a scimitar to block the attack.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword that was infused with Misty Rain Sword Intent was blurry like a misty shower. It was malleable, causing the demoness to miss. The sword beam still managed to penetrate her head as she widened her eyes greatly. A thought suffused her mind. "A flying sword? Wasn''t it said that he could only engage in melee combat and that he was only about White Tiger''s strength?"


    Following that, its thoughts dissipated.


    Both the demons had their heads blasted through, dying instantly.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi¡­" The six-armed demon was alarmed. Its six hands held six blades as it frantically slashed in every direction.


    The flying sword fleeted around and was fast as lightning. It attacked thrice instantly and all of them had been blocked by the six-armed demon.


    Phew.


    Phew.


    "Your blade arts aren''t bad." Qin Yun said, "Speak, who instigated this. Why are you here in my Qin Manor?"

 65 Daoist Red Jade Holds down the For

    Chapter 65: Daoist Red Jade Holds down the Fort


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Second Young Master Qin, you sure hid your strength well!" The six-armed demon let out a hoarse voice. From the flying sword that was hovering in front of Qin Yun, it had already guessed that the intelligence that they had received was wrong.


    Qin Yun was a lot stronger than what the intelligence depicted.


    Qin Yun said nonchalantly, "If you were to know, wouldn''t I be the one suffering under your hands now? Alright, I''m giving you two choices. One, continue resisting and I''ll kill you. Two, honestly tell me¡­ perhaps, I''ll spare your life."


    Spare its life?


    The six-armed demon probably wasn''t aware of how he treated fiendish demons.


    "Heaven Man Unity''s sword kinesis?" All of a sudden, the six-armed demon bellowed angrily. "Die!" As he roared, the surrounding worldly power reverberated vigorously, isolating the voice completely. No matter how much louder his roars were, they could at best, reach a hundred feet or so. Beyond a hundred feet, not a single sound leaked out.


    "It looks like you have partners outside. Are you trying to tell your partner the news about me?" Qin Yun shook his head gently when he saw the attacking demon.


    Phew.


    The silver flying sword flew out once again. Qin Yun had not used all his strength previously to ensure he kept it alive but this time, he did not hold back. The six-armed demon who had incredible blade arts was able to create an impenetrable defense.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" The Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a stream of light and circled the demon, slashing and slicing at it time and again. The flying sword''s assaults were silent and the sword beams came in contiguous waves. Instantly, it had attacked dozens of times.


    "Chi!" The flying sword flashed and sliced off a leg of the six-armed demon. With some whooshing, the demon''s six arms were sliced off as they fell to the ground and remained motionless.


    The Misty Rain Sword Intent was adept at defense and resulted in an impenetrable aegis. Similarly, its offense shared the same vibes.


    The sword beams connected¡­ one attack after another, leaving no room for a breather. It made it impossible for an enemy to escape.


    Of course, there was no need to use any powerful deathblows that were used against Water God on a lesser demon like the six-armed demon.


    "Wouldn''t it be better if you had just spoken obediently?" Qin Yun looked at the demon that had its limbs fall to the ground. "Actually, I''m able to guess even if you didn''t say a word. The Nine Mountain Island Lord sent you?"


    The six-armed demon''s eyes revealed a look of shock.


    "It looks like I guessed right." Qin Yun smiled.


    "Die!" The demon suddenly opened its mouth as black runes began suffusing its forehead.


    "Oh?"


    A sharp flash appeared in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Boom!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew at blazing speed and tore through the air, causing a loud ear-piercing rumble. There were thunderous fires formed as the sword penetrated the demon''s head, boring a huge hole in the ground before it flew back.


    The six-armed demon had wanted to make one final strike but the Intrinsic Flying Sword was too fast. It was dead before it could even strike.


    "Hmph!" Qin Yun stretched out his arm as the silver flying sword entered his palm and returned to his dantian as a sword ball.


    "Another demonic slave." Qin Yun walked over and carefully examined the two demons. "These two are also demonic slaves. It''s no wonder they aren''t afraid of death."


    "Logically speaking, in the battles between humans and the demons, Nine Mountain Island Lord should be furious over Water God''s death. It is understandable if he sends an assassin. But to send three at once? When did demonic slaves with strength at the Connate realm become so cheap?" Qin Yun thought to himself. Even a powerful demon like Nine Mountain Island Lord would not have easily wasted demonic slaves at the Connate False Core realm.


    ¡­


    On the streets outside Qin Manor, a customer was constantly listening in on the commotions in Qin Manor on the second floor of a restaurant.


    "There''s no commotion. The three High Ambassadors had gained entry a long time ago but they haven''t come out?" The customer muttered to himself. "Strange!"


    He waited for quite a while.


    Suddenly, he saw an obstreperous convoy arrive at Qin Manor.


    The customer instantly saw Wen Chong and Commander Fang among the convoy. "It''s the county governor''s personal guards? Oh no, the mission failed!"


    ¡­


    In Qin Manor''s backyard.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm, Daoist Red Jade, Yi Xiao, County Governor Wen, and company were looking at the three demon corpses.


    "Qin Yin, you have mastered sword kinesis?" Daoist Red Jade said with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Since they were invited here, there was no need to conceal his attainment of Heaven Man Unity.


    "I was lucky to make a breakthrough and attain Heaven Man Unity, allowing me to grasp sword kinesis." Qin Yun said, "Thankfully, I have Heaven Man Unity or I would not have detected the three demons that had infiltrated Qin Manor under an invisibility spell! I tried but also unintentionally managed to sneak an attack with my flying sword, killing this demon that should be proficient at venomous arts. Then, I battled this scorpion demon that was good at melee combat. It was this six-armed demon that took me quite a bit of effort."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm took a look and said solemnly, "It was quite perilous. Such a venomous demon is a Green-furred Heart-dismembering Worm. It can emit venomous gases and release many venomous worms. Once it releases its venom, many people in your Qin family would have died.


    Qin Yun also felt a lingering fear.


    Thankfully, he had been in the manor today.


    "Looking at these three demons," Daoist Red Jade remarked. "They must be peak Postnatal realm demons. After being refined into demonic slaves, their strength increased, allowing them the strength to battle against someone at the Connate realm! However, refining such slaves are easy. The six-armed demon is good at melee combat and the venomous scorpion is adept at assassination. The other venomous demon is great at releasing venom¡­ These are demonic slaves with formidable means. If it''s only to vent his anger, he would not have sent such powerful demonic slaves."


    Such venomous demonic slaves were very rare.


    "They are all demonic slaves and I failed to obtain anything from an interrogation. However, from the reactions of the demonic slaves, it''s very likely to be Nine Mountain Island Lord," commented Qin Yun.


    "Only Nine Mountain Island Lord will have the thoughts of seeking revenge and have the strength to do so." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said, "However, to send three demonic slaves at once shows how fond he is of Water God. It might have failed this time but there might be a second time. Red Jade, stay in Qin Manor temporarily while we remain in Grand Dominance County."


    Daoist Red Jade glanced at Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "Old Man Essence Charm, you sure are practiced at appointing me."


    "Qin Yun, I''ll be staying in Qin Manor and I expect good food and drink. If not, I might just leave at any time." Daoist Red Jade said with a laugh.


    "Definitely," said Qin Yun immediately.


    With a peak Connate True Core realm cultivator watching over the manor, it was naturally a good thing. He did not dare guarantee of ensuring a flawless defense.


    "Lord County Governor," said Qin Yun. "Please do not leak news of me being capable of using sword kinesis after mastering Heaven Man Unity. I''m afraid of Nine Mountain Island Lord''s formidable network. He might have some ties in the imperial government."


    "I just came. I didn''t hear what you just said." County Governor Wen said with a smile.


    "I would not say a word either." Daoist Red Jade laughed as well. As an itinerant cultivator, she did not need to report to anybody.


    ¡­


    After dealing with the demonic slave corpses, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao went alone to a corner.


    "Yi Xiao, Nine Mountain Island Lord has taken action against me. It''s possible he would do something to you too. You have to be careful," said Qin Yun.


    "You don''t have to be worried about me. I''m living in County Governor Manor at present. With Senior Essence Charm there, I will definitely be fine." Yi Xiao whispered, "It''s also because of my request of you killing Water God that this thing happened. It''s so common for there to be death between humans and demons. I never expected Nine Mountain Island Lord to be so enraged."


    Qin Yun laughed. "They are unwilling to send powerful demons to deal with me. After all, Senior Essence Charm and Senior Red Jade are here. As for the weaker fiendish demons¡­ they will only be sending themselves to their deaths as you already know."


    Yi Xiao nodded slightly. She obviously understood Qin Yun''s strength.


    ******


    Late that night, news reached Nine Mountain Island.


    Azure Ox frowned when he received the news. Although he kept a low profile, he enjoyed a status only second to the Island Lord on Nine Mountain Island. It was not only because he was the eldest disciple but because he had the greatest strength among all the fiendish demons! Azure Ox''s strength was something well known throughout the entire Jiang Prefecture. He had once managed to escape from a clash with a human Connate Golden Core realm expert.


    He kept a low profile and had somewhat high intelligence. The Nine Mountain Island Lord also trusted him greatly.


    "It actually failed?" Azure Ox continued frowning. "Three demonic slaves entered Qin Manor and without letting out any information, they perished without a trace?"

 66 Letter of Visi

    Chapter 66: Letter of Visit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Azure Ox patiently waited for information and soon, lesser demons brought him two other pieces of information.


    "You may leave."


    Azure Ox put together the three pieces of information. They were obtained from three different sources. After all the Nine Mountain Island had entrenched itself in the Jiang Prefecture for more than a thousand years. It had infiltrated very deeply into the system.


    By putting the three pieces of information together, he was able to have a better understanding of the situation.


    ¡­


    On a throne in an opulent hall, black smoke rose and condensed into the Nine Mountain Island Lord. He looked down at Azure Ox. "Azure Ox, you sent three demonic slaves but have you obtained the heart blood of children?"


    "I have been incompetent." Azure Ox said respectfully. "The three demonic slaves have been sent but they failed."


    "Then, keep thinking of a solution!" Under Nine Mountain Island Lord''s blood-colored brows, his eyes suffused anger.


    Azure Ox bowed and said immediately, "Master, the old bastard, Essence Charm, and the old witch, Red Jade, are in Grand Dominance City at present. There was hope trying to sneak an attack on Qin Yun previously but now having failed, they wouldn''t give us another chance. There might be a trap awaiting us in Qin Manor! Against such danger, no Connate True Core realm demon would dare take the risk."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord fell silent.


    He only had three Connate True Core demons under his command! One was wild and intractable while the other two were slightly obedient. However, who would agree to partake in a suicide mission?


    "The three demonic slaves that were sent failed. Sending another demonic slave that barely has strength at the Connate False Core realm would probably be useless." Azure Ox asked, "Are we sending demonic slaves with strength at the Connate True Core realm?"


    Demonic slaves with strength at the Connate False Core realm were originally demons at the peak of the Postnatal realm. They were on the level of demon leaders. A large number needed to die in order to have an extremely small number of successful cases.


    Demonic slaves with strength at the Connate True Core realm were great demons at the Connate False Core realm originally. Refining them into demonic slaves had a very high fatal rate!


    Nine Mountain Island Lord had previously done the procedure on seven Connate False Core demons in the past but only two had succeeded! Among the two that had succeeded¡­ one of them had been vanquished by Essence Charm about a century ago. Now, there was only one left. Such powerful demonic slaves that were unafraid of death and exceedingly loyal was not something Nine Mountain Island Lord was willing to send, considering the Grand Dominance City''s tight security.


    "Azure Ox, do you have any other methods?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked.


    "With old bastard Essence Charm and old witch Red Jade around, I doubt hard tactics would work." Azure Ox said, "We can try soft tactics! We can always try buying. Wouldn''t simply buying it from him work?"


    "Buy?" Nine Mountain Island nodded slightly. "Alright then. Let''s buy it from a junior that has yet to enter the Connate realm. But who shall go?"


    "We demons cannot make an appearance." Azure Ox said. "It has to be done by a human. Isn''t it very common for human cultivators to buy precious items from Qin Yun? According to what I know¡­ Qin Yun has sold the Anchor Cloudchain he obtained from Junior Brother Water God to the Hong family. Perhaps, there is more than one cultivator rushing to Grand Dominance City at this moment."


    "Our Nine Mountain Island has good relations with the East Sea County''s Motai family. With its fame, this matter should be easily accomplished," Azure Ox said confidently."Also, the Motai family requires favors from us so they would not dare demand too much from us."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded. "Alright, let the Motai family do it! Old Man Motai will not dare tamper with it."


    "Yes." Azure Ox answered respectfully.


    ******


    Half a month later.


    A ship with large flags fluttering in the wind entered the Lanyang River. The flags had the word Motai on it and no bandits, pirates or lesser demons dared to cause trouble to it wherever it passed.


    "Grand Dominance is up ahead, isn''t it?" A bald, lanky youth was standing on the deck as he looked into the distant.


    "Young Master," said a chuckling old man beside him. "We have already entered Grand Dominance and in four hours, we will arrive at the county city."


    "Alright. Failure is not an option. The ''Yin Yang Snake Heartblood'' that Grandfather needs has to be obtained," said the youth.


    "Yes, Yin Yang Snake Heartblood." The old man chuckled. His young master did not know but he had come under instructions of his master. He knew that the blood in question was the heart blood of children. It shared similarities with Yin Yang Snake Heartblood. Those who did not fully understand that were unable to distinguish them.


    "Uncle Bin, after we arrive at Grand Dominance City, send a letter and a gift for me! I will pay a visit early next morning." The youth sneered. "I''m really honoring this fellow that''s not yet at the Connate realm by visiting him in such a respectful manner."


    "Yes."


    The old man immediately said, "Our eldest young master of the Motai family is visiting a nobody like him, a sword immortal that has yet entered the Connate realm! Indeed, the honor bestowed on him is excessive. However, Master has also said that the Yin Yang Snake Heartblood is extremely important for his cultivation. It has to be obtained at all costs. There is no room for failure."


    "Got it. Grandfather had also asked me to hold back my temper. Don''t worry. I will be friendly." The bald lanky youth said with a chuckle.


    "Grand Dominance, Grand Dominance¡­"


    The bald youth scoffed.


    As a large family of the biggest county, the East Sea County, in the Jiang Prefecture, the Motai family thought nothing of any other family clan in Grand Dominance County.


    "The biggest family clan in Grand Dominance is the Hong family, right? The family does not even have a cultivator at the Connate realm." The youth scoffed. "I heard that the one backing the Hong family is Lord Prefecture Overseer?"


    "One of Lord Prefecture Overseer''s beloved concubines is from the Hong family," said the elder.


    The youth felt even more disdain. Lord Prefecture Overseer obviously enjoyed a high status with all the power in the eighteen counties in the Jiang Prefecture concentrated on him. Those that could compare with him included a general of a Godfiend Guard stationed in the Jiang Prefecture and other Connate Golden Core experts. What Lord Prefecture Overseer had was true power. With him as a backer, the Hong family naturally rose rapidly.


    However, to truly ancient family clans, the Hong family that did not possess much heritage was despised.


    "On account of Lord Prefecture Overseer, don''t provoke the Hong family. It would be problematic once spousal pressure rears its head." The old man said immediately.


    "Don''t worry," replied the youth.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance City, Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass and cultivated alone in his yard. Ever since he killed Water God, perhaps due to the satisfying an obsession that had plagued him for years, or perhaps attaining Heaven Man Unity that allowed his senses to be sharper, Qin Yun found that he had new insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent. He naturally did not waste any time by honing and cogitating over it daily.


    "Phew!" A black flying sword was flying in the yard freely. It was agile and its motions were reminiscent of a fish in water.


    "Second Young Master." A servant''s voice came from outside.


    Qin Yun frowned slightly as he directed the sword with his mind.


    Sou!


    The black flying sword flew back into the scabbard by his waist.


    "Come in," said Qin Yun.


    The servant opened the door to the yard and entered with another person. The servant was Ah Gui and the other was a page that he did not recognize.


    The page carried a small box and said respectfully, "Young Master Qin, under my master''s orders, I''m here to deliver a letter of visit. My master will be coming personally to visit." With that said, he bowed and handed the small box forward.


    Qin Yun nodded at Ah Gui.


    Ah Gui took over the box and gave it to Qin Yun.


    The box opened to a letter and a pair of red pearls.


    "They are already sending a gift before even meeting me? That''s rather cordial?" Qin Yun opened the letter and read it. He was somewhat surprised. "The East Sea County''s Motai family? Why is the Motai family treating me with so much respect?"


    The East Sea County was not something the Grand Dominance County could compare with.


    In the eighteen counties in Jiang Prefecture, Grand Dominance County was considered average. In fact, most counties were similar. And the East Sea County was the biggest county in the Jiang Prefecture. Even when compared to every other county in the world, it was ranked in the top five! It had a population of nearly twenty million, and each county city had a population that exceeded a million. It was quite astounding for a city to have a million people.


    Even the imperial capital was the same.


    The Great Chang empire had stationed a Godfiend troop in East Sea County! The Motai family was ranked as one of the top three family clans in the East Sea County.


    "Motai family''s Patriarch is one of the two Grand Elders of the Grass Magus Sect." Qin Yun faltered.


    The Grass Magus Sect was the only cultivation sect of the magus lineage in the Jiang Prefecture. However, the three lineages of Daoism, Buddhism, and Godfiendism were still considered flourishing. The magus lineage had eventually waned and the Grass Magus Sect had only luckily inherited some of the heritage but could only be considered a second-rate sect. However, magus cultivation was strange and unfathomable. The Motai family''s patriarch was the only two Earth Magi, which was equivalent to the Connate True Core realm, in the Grass Magus Sect.


    "Ever since the three demonic slaves were killed, my Qin Manor has not encountered much trouble with Senior Red Jade stationed here." Qin Yun thought to himself. "Although there have been many cultivators coming to exchange for treasures with me, they were only ordinary cultivators. The Motai family is also requesting for something precious?"


    "The high and mighty Motai family has something they want from the treasures Water God left behind?" Qin Yun pondered over the matter.


    However, with the Motai family''s status, it could directly come to him.


    To send a letter of visit ahead of time made Qin Yun found them overly courteous. The honor they gave him seemed excessive.


    "I understand. Tomorrow, I will be waiting for your master here," said Qin Yun.


    "Then, I will bid you farewell."


    The page immediately bowed respectfully and left. The servant, Ah Gui sent him out.

 67 Yi Xiao is leaving?

    Chapter 67: Yi Xiao is leaving?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The next day, in the early morning.


    "Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun encountered Yi Xiao at the manor''s door. He led her straight in. "Three demonic slaves were sent after me only a few days ago. Why did you leave County Governor Manor alone? Weren¡¯t you afraid that demonic slaves would attack you? You haven''t recovered much of your strength."


    "Don''t worry about me." Yi Xiao smiled. "Although I have yet to recover, I still have items that can keep me alive! Furthermore, County Governor Manor has Senior Essence Charm, while your house has Senior Red Jade. That Nine Mountain Island Lord would not be dumb enough to send more subordinates on a suicide mission. It''s not easy to refine powerful demonic slaves. By the way, I heard that the Motai family will be visiting you today?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "You even know that?"


    "The moment the Motai family entered Grand Dominance County, news of them was delivered to County Governor Manor. Every action such a large family clan takes is watched closely by County Governor Manor." Yi Xiao said with a smile, "From the looks of it, even the Motai family wants the treasures left behind after Water God''s death."


    "When the Motai family comes, I''ll know what they want," replied Qin Yun.


    "Alright."


    When Yi Xiao entered the manor with Qin Yun, she suddenly fell silent before saying, "Qin Yun, I have something I need to tell you."


    "What?" Qin Yun asked.


    "I''ll be leaving in the coming days." Yi Xiao elaborated, "I''ll be leaving Grand Dominance City."


    "But-but you haven''t recovered from your injuries," Qin Yun immediately said.


    It was too sudden.


    He believed that Yi Xiao would stay in Grand Dominance City for a few months, but now she was leaving in a couple of days?


    "My master has caught wind of the infiltration of demonic slaves sent by Nine Mountain Island Lord." Yi Xiao explained. "She is worried about me and has requested an Uncle-Master from my Divine Firmament Chapter to bring me back to the sect when he passes through Grand Dominance City."


    "How strong is your Uncle-Master?" Qin Yun immediately asked.


    "He is an Uncle-Master of the Divine Firmament Chapter proper, and not a subsidiary sect."


    "That''s good, that''s good¡­" At that moment, Qin Yun felt mixed emotions but he said, "It''s also a good thing that your Uncle-Master is bringing you back."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao acknowledged.


    The two walked alongside each other as they maintained silence.


    "Ha, I was planning on eating more of Grand Dominance City''s delicacies." Yi Xiao broke the silence.


    "There will be more chances in the future." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Yea, in the future," Yi Xiao replied.


    They saw a servant running over from some distance away. From afar, he shouted hurriedly, "Second Young Master, the Motai family is here." Qin Yun had instructed the servants to inform him the moment the Motai family came.


    When Yi Xiao saw this, she said with a smile, "Since the Motai family is here, I''ll not be meeting them. I''ll have a chat with Senior Red Jade."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Yi Xiao turned and left.


    Seeing the departing Yi Xiao''s turned back, Qin Yun''s good mood from the Motai family''s request of a treasure was gone.


    "Yi Xiao is leaving?" Qin Yun muttered inwardly.


    However, he did not have the luxury of time to continue thinking about the matter. He turned and headed for the manor entrance to welcome the Motai family.


    ¡­


    Soon, Qin Yun was at the manor entrance.


    There, he immediately saw a bald, lanky youth outside. Beside him stood an elder.


    "Haha, you must be Young Master Qin Yun. I''m Motai Lang. I had heard of Young Master Qin''s name back in East Sea County. I am extremely impressed." Motai Lang beamed passionately. The elder was smiling as well.


    "Young Master Motai, please." Qin Yun led the way with a smile.


    Motai Lang walked ahead of the elder into the manor with Qin Yun escorting them.


    "Back in East Sea County, I heard news that Brother Qin and a female disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter had jointly killed Water God," Motai Lang said with a voice transmission as his eyes flashed. "I felt ardor and zeal coursing through my blood when I learned of it. I really wished I had joined Brother Qin in the expedition to kill Water God. Of course, that''s only wishful thinking. I lack the strength, unfortunately."


    Qin Yun smiled slightly. "It was quite a perilous situation."


    "This is something that warrants great merit. It''s impressive that you succeeded," Motai Lang said wistfully. Although he looked down on Grand Dominance County''s family clans and thought nothing of them, his grandfather had given him a mission. And he was specifically chosen because he was a person that knew how to communicate properly based on who he was talking to. He spoke with an extreme earnestness. Even if the Motai family was overly foppish, a legitimate son like him would not possess much power.


    Motai Lang was a man who had been putting on various facades from a young age.


    "Brother Qin, to be honest, Grand Dominance is truly beautiful." Motai Lang walked into the mansion and said with regret, "Although East Sea City is a lot bigger, it''s a little too busy. It''s not as quaint as Grand Dominance with its excellent scenery. If I were to choose, I''d rather stay in Grand Dominance permanently."


    "I also like Grand Dominance. However, East Sea County is excellent too. I heard that many of the Water race from the seas head there for trade," commented Qin Yun.


    There were four seas in the world.


    Out of the Water races of the four seas, the Dragon race reigned supreme. The hegemon of the East Sea''s Water races was the East Sea Dragon King! East Sea County City was the biggest city where the East Sea Water race traded with humans.


    "The bustle is excessive. The East Sea''s Water race is there, the Godfiend Guard is stationed there, and so are the Daoist and Buddhists sects. My Motai family may be considered one of the top three family clans in the East Sea County, but to be honest, not even we would dare to offend those top factions." Motai Lang said as he poured out his woes.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    It was only sensible. The Godfiend Guard was the imperial government''s strongest physical force in the Jiang Prefecture! Backing the East Sea Water race was the East Sea Dragon race! If the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands sent anyone, the Motai family would naturally acquiesce.


    "Grand Dominance is still better. It doesn''t have all sorts of complicated factions. It''s sweet and simple," Motai Lang said with a laugh.


    Amid the chatter, they arrived at Qin Yun''s compound and entered an elegant hall.


    Qin Yun, Motai Lang, and the elder took their seats.


    "Brother Motai''s, can I ask the purpose of your visit?" Qin Yun asked. Regardless of the matter, the short chat had given Qin Yun a good impression of Motai Lang. Qin Yun had roamed the world and suffered. Of course, he knew not to trust others so easily. However, if the other party had nothing much to do with him, he wouldn¡¯t bother being overly wary of them. Since they were so respectful towards him, he naturally treated them with respect.


    "Sigh." Motai Lang continued, "Brother Qin, as you know, the magus lineage waned a long time ago. It''s difficult for my Grass Magus Sect to cultivate. We recently heard that Brother Qin obtained a special blood needed by my Grass Magus Sect. Therefore, we came here specially to buy it from you."


    "Blood?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. He wasn''t surprised.


    The materials that the magus lineage used for cultivation were special. Using blood as a cultivation material was commonly seen among magi.


    "What blood is it?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yin Yang Snake Heartblood." Motai Lang explained, "It''s an extremely rare snake species. This Yin Yang Snake Heartblood contains an Yin and Yang aura that is extracted from the snake''s heart. The Yin and Yang aura is also extremely pure. However, Yin Yang snakes are too rare. It''s hard enough finding a single one, and finding a hundred, if not a thousand, is almost an impossible task. I heard that Water God collected Yin Yang Snake Heartblood, and had a large quantity of it."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "The blood Water God left behind after he died did not have Yin Yang Snake Heartblood."


    "It is there, it certainly is," Motai Lang immediately said. "My Motai family is certain that Water God possessed a batch of Yin Yang Snake Heartblood¡­ Check it thoroughly. In the treasures he left after his death, there should be some blood. That blood has Yin and Yang auras."


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "There is indeed some blood. I can also sense the Yin and Yang aura. However, I can also sense rich grievance auras from it."


    "The grievance aura is a result of having too many Yin Yang Snakes killed. To accumulate that much blood, how can the numbers be few? With so many killed, the snakes will remember the vendetta, causing the grievance auras to be heavy." Motai Lang said with a smile. "That batch of blood is what my Motai family needs. Don''t worry, Brother Qin. My Motai family will definitely not take advantage of you."


    "That''s not it." Qin Yun shook his head. "It''s absolutely not Yin Yang Snake Heartblood. Back when I traveled the world, I once discovered a Yin Yang Snake in the southern Yue Prefecture. I befriended a few locals and had skinned a Yin Yang Snake personally. I have also personally tasted its gallbladder and drank alcohol that has the blood of the snake''s heart mixed in it. I am absolutely certain that the blood is not Yin Yang Snake Heartblood."


    Motai Lang was stunned.

 68 Threat?

    Chapter 68: Threat?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Motai Lang immediately said, "Brother Qin, could you be mistaken? Or could there be another batch of blood?"


    "No, there is only one batch of blood. It does have Yin Yang aura exuding from it but it also has an extremely rich air of grievance," Qin Yun explained. "However, it''s definitely not Yin Yang Snake Heartblood."


    The elder who was sitting beside them turned anxious.


    This matter was truthfully about the heart blood of a child, and so was extremely important. Furthermore, it was a sinister matter; if it were to be made known, there could only be trouble! Motai Lang enjoyed a high status and he was competent at what he did; therefore, he had been put in charge of this undertaking. Unfortunately, he was still young. Of course, the matter was kept under wraps since it was best if few people knew about it! The only ones that knew of the purchase of the heart blood of children were the Motai family''s patriarch and the elder, Yan Bin, who was in charge of contacting Nine Mountain Island.


    Yan Bin cursed inwardly, "This Qin Yun even knows about Yin Yang Snake Heartblood?"


    They had deliberately fabricated a story about something that was extremely rare.


    A cultivator could cultivate for more than a century without ever seeing a single Yin Yang Snake. If one did not go to the Yue Prefecture, the snake was probably something that would elude them for life. Furthermore, cultivators would show disdain towards eating Yin Yang Snake Heartblood. However, Qin Yun had yet to knock open the gate of immortality back then. He was only a mortal roaming the world. Naturally, he had encountered all sorts of strange items and beings. An Yin-Yang snake was rare so he had tasted it.


    As such, the ''lie'' was seen through.


    ¡­


    "It''s not Yin Yang Snake Heartblood?" Motai Lang was perplexed.


    That''s not right.


    His grandfather appeared very confident when he instructed him on the matter.


    "Young Master," Yan Bin said with a voice transmission despite his mouth remaining motionless. "This blood that contains Yin and Yang aura is an extremely special blood. It''s very important for Master''s cultivation of the magus arts. In order to keep it a secret, we call it Yin Yang Snake Heartblood when we speak of it in public. But it is, in fact, a different, extremely precious blood! It has to be obtained at all costs."


    Motai Lang felt enlightened when he heard that.


    So that was the case¡­


    What his family wanted to buy wasn''t Yin Yang Snake Heartblood.


    "Grandfather deliberately held back the truth so that he could buy it at a low price?" Motai Lang speculated. "I never expected for it to be hidden from me as well."


    Although many thoughts raced through his mind, Motai Lang smiled even more brilliantly.


    "Haha¡­" Motai Lang laughed. "Brother Qin, I''m truly impressed. Impressive! You even know of Yin Yang Snake Heartblood. Alright, I''m not afraid to embarrass myself. I''ll be honest."


    Qin Yun smiled as well. Was he finally speaking the truth?


    "That batch of blood was originally my Motai family''s. Later on, it was stolen by a cultivator before it finally landed in the hands of Water God. It is a special blood concocted by my Motai family for the cultivation of magus arts. Brother Qin, I''m requesting you to sell it to us on account of the Motai family," Motai Lang said. "Blood used in the cultivation of magus arts is not something typical cultivators can use. Brother Qin, I know that you are a sword immortal and I''m willing to exchange a ninth-grade flying sword Dharma treasure for it."


    Yan Bin added as well, "In fact, it''s a bit of dirty linen for my Motai family, so we would like to request that you not speak of this matter beyond these walls."


    "Cultivation in magus arts? Specially concocted blood?" Qin Yun frowned. "Brother Motai, without understanding the origin of this blood, I will not be able to sell it to you."


    "I told you, it was specially concocted for the cultivation of magus arts," said Motai Lang immediately.


    "Brother Motai, do you think I''m ignorant because of my age?" Qin Yun frowned. "There is an immense amount of blood and the grievances exuded from it are overwhelming! I couldn¡¯t even guess how many lives were ended to have such a level of grievance. It would be fine if those lives belonged to beasts, but if this is the blood of humans¡­ such overwhelming grievance is a result of grave sins. The karma involved would be tremendous."


    The grievance exuded by the blood was just too much. Qin Yun naturally had to be careful.


    Cultivators¡­


    The higher their realm, the more they paid attention to karma!


    The act of killing Water God resulted in the gratefulness of millions of citizens. He had earned great merit from it. Cultivation demanded one to do things of great merit and avoid sinful matters. Qin Yun had obtained complete top heritage so he naturally knew of certain taboos.


    "There''s just too much grievance in this. I have no choice but to be careful," Qin Yun said. "I have to investigate the origins of this blood and the cause of the grievances. Only after figuring these things out will I be able to decide on the matter."


    "You¡­" Motai Lang turned anxious.


    Yan Bin sighed secretly when he heard this. "Shit, we called it Yin Yang Snake Heartblood and treated it as the blood of beasts, hoping to deceive him. Who knew that we would be seen through?"


    Cultivators would typically not encounter the heart blood of children. Who would gather such things during ordinary cultivation?


    "Brother Motai, I wish for an explanation," said Qin Yun.


    "Brother Qin, do you not trust me? I already said it''s for the cultivation of magus arts. Yet you are¡­being too insistent. In addition to a ninth-grade flying sword, I''ll get you another ninth-grade Dharma treasure, how about it?" Motai Lang immediately added, "If you give my Motai family face, we will naturally remember this act of yours."


    "This is not about face. There''s too much grievance coming from it. I have to be careful about it." Qin Yun shook his head.


    ¡­


    In another wing of the Qin Manor, Daoist Red Jade and Yi Xiao were together.


    "The Motai family came to request a treasure?" Daoist Red Jade''s eyes lit up. "Let''s go and take a look! That kid Qin Yun doesn''t know much. He might get fooled by the Motai family."


    Alright." Yi Xiao accompanied her.


    The duo headed for Qin Yun''s yard.


    When they came outside, they heard an angry shout from inside. "Qin Yun! Will you not give my Motai family face?"


    "Brother Motai, I''m sorry but without knowing where the aura of grievance comes from, I cannot sell it to your Motai family," replied Qin Yun.


    "What''s the matter? Why have they begun quarreling?" Daoist Red Jade was somewhat shocked. Ah Gui, who was standing by the entrance, immediately said, "Second Young Master is busy entertaining distinguished guests at present. Entry is prohibited."


    "Make way."


    Daoist Red Jade waved her hand and sent Ah Gui stumbling backward.


    She and Yi Xiao entered together.


    They immediately saw Motai Lang and Yan Bin getting up to leave. They had ugly expressions and Motai Lang was shouting, "Qin Yun, how impressive you are. How dare you think nothing of my Motai family. My Motai family will remember this!"


    Qin Yun sighed upon seeing this. "It looks like the Motai family wants the blood at all costs. However, such immense grievance would only lead to endless troubles if I give it away without completely understanding the situation¡­The more the Motai family is unwilling to explain its origins, the more unwilling I am to sell it."


    "Oh?"


    Motai Lang and Yan Bin immediately saw Yi Xiao and Daoist Red Jade come in when they stepped outside the hall.


    "This¡­" Motai Lang felt as though the world in front of him had lit up.


    Although Daoist Red Jade had beautiful features, she could only be considered normal. However, Yi Xiao was truly like a fairy that had descended from heaven. Motai Lang was stunned. He had seen many beauties in East Sea County and even had a few renowned courtesans living in his residence. However, compared to Yi Xiao, they were far inferior. Motai Lang could not help but hold his breath.


    Beautiful, too beautiful! A fairy!


    Although no one had ever seen a fairy from the heavens, Motai Lang believed that even the fairies from heaven were likely inferior to her.


    "The Motai family?" The fairy-like woman walked over. Just as Motai Lang was about to say something, she walked to Qin Yun''s side and looked at Motai Lang coldly. "How impressive, this Motai family. It can act so arrogantly just because it has an Earth Magus in the family? There has been more than one Heaven Magus that has died at the hands of my Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family."


    Motai Lang drew a gasp when he heard that.


    Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family? It existed for a period longer than the Great Chang empire.


    After the Great Chang empire ruled the world, it took the initiative to confer kingship to appease the terrifying ancient family! Even demons were incessantly terrified of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family. Its influence surpassed even top cultivation sects. Only Daoist or Buddhist sacred lands could suppress it, and even then only slightly.


    "Is this lady Miss Yi?" Motai Lang immediately beamed as though he was not the one making threats just moments ago. He said, "I must have turned foolish in my anger. All I wanted was to buy a batch of blood but Brother Qin refuses to sell it. I dare say that I have not offended Brother Qin in any way and am willing to exchange Dharma treasures for it, but he refuses. Sigh, I''ll definitely be reprimanded by my grandfather when I return."


    Although he purposely sounded aggrieved, Motai Lang felt displeased seeing Qin Yun and Yi Xiao standing so close together in such an intimate manner.


    Qin Yun stood by Yi Xiao''s side and said with a voice transmission, "Yi Xiao, thanks. By reprimanding him, you have lessened my troubles."


    Even if the Motai family wanted to make things difficult for him, they now had to think twice.


    "There''s no need to thank me. However, what blood does he want to buy? Why do you refuse to sell it to him?" Yi Xiao asked with a voice transmission.


    Daoist Red Jade walked over as well and asked, "Young Brother Qin Yun, what does the Motai family want to buy?"


    "It''s a batch of blood. It is rich with grievances and I''m afraid of being implicated by tremendous negative karma." Qin Yun explained as he took out an ordinary gray bottle from the Cosmic Bag hanging by his waist. "Senior Red Jade, help me take a look. What blood is this? Without figuring out its origins, I do not dare decide on the matter so easily."


    Motai Lang immediately looked at the gray bottle in a yearning fashion.


    Yan Bin''s heart tightened.


    Darn, that''s the heart blood of children! If it were to be recognized, it would lead to great trouble.


    "Let me take a look." Daoist Red Jade took it over and pulled open the bottle stopper.

 69 Thieving Late into the Nigh

    Chapter 69: Thieving Late into the Night


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Everyone was watching by the side but Daoist Red Jade sensed something. She frowned and said, "What a tremendous aura of grievance. It''s simply too much. Furthermore, there is so much of this blood. It is almost enough to make a small river."


    "My Motai family had killed many beasts before concocting this blood." Yan Bin immediately said, "Many beasts were killed, resulting in such great grievance."


    "Beasts?"


    Daoist Red Jade shook her head. "It contains Yin Yang aura and is rather pure but has an immense air of grievance. It''s not easy to create so much grievance from the blood of beasts. I surmise that there''s an eighty percent chance that it''s the blood of humans or demons. Only sentient beings can have such a high level of grievance. However, I can''t identify it. Neither have I ever seen it before."


    "Young Brother Qin Yun, the air of grievances is just too much. If you were to handle it without heed, you will be implicated by grave sins. That will cause trouble for your cultivation." Red Jade said, "Figure out its origins before deciding on how to deal with it."


    "I share the same sentiments." Qin Yun nodded.


    Such great grievance could very well mean the immense grievance and hatred from numerous living beings!


    However, there were fiends that liked to use ''grievances'' for cultivation. If he were to hand this blood into the hands of fiends, he would be tainted with grave sins. The richer the air of grievances, the graver and more terrifying the sin.


    If it only had faint amounts of grievances, Qin Yun wouldn''t have minded it. After all, killing too many beasts also resulted in its accumulation.


    But, Qin Yun was alarmed at the terrifying state it had reached.


    "Since you do not trust my Motai family, we bid you farewell." Motai Lang said, "Brother Qin, if you want to sell the blood, you can sell it to us at any time."


    "Let''s go!"


    Motai Lang led Yan Bin and left immediately.


    "Ah Gui, send them off." Qin Yun instructed.


    "Yes." Outside, Ah Gui immediately led the way.


    ¡­


    "This Motai family sure speaks and acts fast." Qin Yun explained to Yi Xiao and Daoist Red Jade, "When they first came, they claimed that it was Yin Yang Snake Heartblood but I saw through their lie. They then said that it was blood concocted by their Motai family."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Yin Yang Snakes are mutants. They are born with Yin and Yang auras. Legends say that they are descendants of the Torch Dragon and have massive sizes and high intelligence. However, they are only mortal beasts if they haven''t turned sentient. If they gained sentience and become demons, they would be extremely terrifying demons. Their potential might not be weaker than water apes. The grievances generated by Yin Yang Snakes wouldn''t be small as well. It''s possible to accumulate this much blood by killing hundreds or thousands of Yin Yang Snakes."


    "Yin Yang Snake Heartblood? That might be possible." Daoist Red Jade nodded as well.


    "I have seen an Yin Yang Snake before and have even eaten it." Qin Yun shook his head. "I''m absolutely certain that it''s not the blood of Yin Yang Snakes."


    Daoist Red Jade became astonished. "You have eaten one before?"


    "I ate one in the Yue Prefecture. Back then, I killed that beast through the joint efforts of a friend. It was only a mutated beast that had yet to gain sentience. Killing it was already rather difficult." Qin Yun sighed. Back then, his strength was only equivalent to a lesser demon.


    "It looks like the Motai family knows of the blood''s origins but it doesn''t want to make it known." Daoist Red Jade sneered, "The more they refuse to explain it clearly, the more careful you have to be."


    ******


    Motai Lang led Yan Bin out Qin Manor.


    He turned back to look at Qin Manor''s plaque as his eyes flashed coldly. The mission given to him by his grandfather had failed! Furthermore, the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, a fairy-like existence, was very intimate with Qin Yun. She had even used her Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family background to repress him. This made Motai Lang feel jealous and furious. Yet, he knew that the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family was a juggernaut. It could crush his Motai family with a little force!


    "Young Master, what do we do now? Master insists of obtaining that blood." Yan Bin asked with a voice transmission.


    "Who knew that he saw through the excuse of Yin Yang Snake Heartblood." Motai Lang replied with a voice transmission. "It''s all your fault. Why didn''t you tell me ahead of time? It would not have led to us having to leave in such a hurry. If we continue pestering Qin Yun, he will definitely become more suspicious. He might also try all means to investigate the origin of the blood if we press further."


    "We can''t press him." Yan Bin immediately agreed when he heard that.


    If they pressed him, Qin Yun would definitely attempt an investigation. If the investigations bore fruit and people learned that it was the heart blood of children¡­ the Motai family could disavow the matter! But, the mission from Nine Mountain Island Lord would fail completely. As a result, the Motai family would end up being punished by the Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Let''s return to our residence first. Tonight, think of a way to steal the blood." Motai Lang looked at the elder beside him and said with a voice transmission. "Did you see it just now? Steal the entire Cosmic Bag hanging by his waist."


    "Steal?" Yan Bin''s heart stirred.


    "Uncle Bin, you are adept at Gu arts. Send a venomous Gu to steal it! Do it late in the night. So what if he''s a cultivator? He still needs to sleep. Once he''s deep asleep, the Gu can fly over and stealthily take his Cosmic Bag away." Motai Lang sneered. "Some sects might have array formations but his Qin family should lack them. Although there might be some preparations, your Gu are only bugs. Bugs are prevalent in summer so no one would notice them."


    "Alright." Yan Bin nodded slightly.


    Motai Lang immediately entered a horse carriage. Yan Bin rode a horse with many subordinates lining the side.


    The convoy left immediately.


    ¡­


    Late at night.


    Inside a room, Yan Bin was sitting cross-legged. His pupils suffused a green nether glow.


    "Go."


    Two gray bugs flew out from his ears. They were slightly bigger than mosquitoes and their proboscises were sharp and long. As they hummed, they immediately flapped their wings and noiselessly departed the house. They flew extremely quickly and flew through the night sky. In five minutes, they reached Qin Manor. When they arrived at their destination, the two bugs rapidly slowed down, making them appear like ordinary mosquitoes.


    Summer nights had many mosquitoes and bugs. These two bugs were inconspicuous and no mortals would notice two bugs in the night.


    The two bugs flew for Qin Yun''s compound with great familiarity.


    At that moment¡­


    Qin Yun was indeed sleeping soundly. He had cultivated in the first half of the night, honing his breathing and cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword. After obtaining the items like Smokelike Water and Purple Gold Dust, Qin Yun did not rest a single night. The hundreds of kilograms of axe remnants he obtained from White Tiger had been refined. He had absorbed about half the Smokelike Water. The Purple Gold Dust and Three-colored Silver had similar fates. The Intrinsic Flying Sword''s accumulation was gaining in strength and Qin Yun believed that there was a chance of upgrading it to a seventh-grade Dharma treasure within a month''s time.


    Many treasures had been used to bring his flying sword to the seventh-grade! For example, Grand Dominance County''s number one family, the Hong family, had not accumulated enough because of its recent rise. They were unable to obtain a seventh-grade Dharma treasure even if they went bankrupt! It was evident how precious a seventh-grade Dharma treasure was.


    Water God had exploited millions of citizens for more than two centuries. He had also obtained many benefits from his master, Nine Mountain Island Lord. All this led to him only obtaining a sixth-grade Dharma treasure and his other treasures.


    "Buzz~" The two bugs flew through the cracks between the wooden door of Qin Yun''s building.


    Inside the sleeping Qin Yun''s dantian, there was a sword ball that was being nurtured by his Quintessential Essence and soul but it suddenly quivered.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun immediately opened his eyes.


    In the dark night, Qin Yun remained on bed. The moment Qin Yun opened his eyes, he immediately covered a hundred and twenty feet of his surroundings with his perception.


    "There''s danger?" Qin Yun did not doubt his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s sharpness. A cultivator''s ability to perceive danger was inferior to their intrinsic Dharma treasures.


    With his psyche shrouding a hundred and twenty feet of his surroundings, he discovered no other living beings in his room except a few bugs.


    There was nothing wrong with the other mosquitoes but there were two bugs that Qin Yun could sense some form of psyche on them. It was as though he was facing other sentient beings! Furthermore, he had never seen such bugs before. They had hard carapaces and their proboscises were as sharp as blades. He knew they were extraordinary from ''watching'' them with his psyche.


    "Gu?"

 70 Separation

    Chapter 70: Separation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Although he had roamed the world and had seen a cultivator adept at Gu arts, this was the first time he was encountering Gu.


    He guessed the bugs'' identity the moment he saw them. What else could they be when they had the same psyche projection on them?


    "Gu arts? Friend, what is your purpose of controlling Gu to visit me so late at night?" Qin Yun sat up and grabbed the black flying sword by his bed''s headboard. He spoke calmly but he already had a guess. The most famous magi in the Jiang Prefecture was the Grass Magus Sect.


    "Ang!"


    The two Gu hesitated momentarily before charging at him with a loud buzz.


    Since stealing didn''t work, they had resorted to robbery!


    "Woosh." Qin Yun instantly drew his black flying sword, causing sword beams to envelop the two Gu. The bugs flitted about with unpredictable trajectories.


    The sword struck one of the Gu, shattering its carapace. It ended up flying backward. Qin Yun''s sword beam circled around and struck another Gu. The Misty Rain Sword was proficient at defense so how could he not defend against two Gu? Even without the Misty Rain Sword Intent, he was able to easily ward them off.


    "Since you aren''t speaking, don''t blame me for being heartless." Qin Yun said.


    He swiped his black flying sword across, sending sword beams fluttering. With a woosh, the sword split one of the Gu into two. The other Gu immediately attempted to escape in fear.


    "Escaping?" Qin Yun charged forward and with a flash of his sword, split the Gu that was attempting to escape into two.


    Qin Yun looked at the two corpses of the Gu and frowned. "They came deep into the night and attacked me the moment I discovered them. The other party did not use a voice transmission through the Dharmic powers augmented on the Gu to communicate from the beginning. From the looks of it, the other party doesn''t want to expose themselves."


    "Is it the Motai family? That elder Yan Bin is a Man Magus from the Grass Magus Sect." Qin Yun made some guesses.


    However, just the corpses of the Gu were insufficient to prove anything.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere.


    Inside a room.


    Yan Bin, who had his psyche infused into the two Gu, suddenly turned pale.


    "Darn it."


    Yan Bin gritted his teeth. "He destroyed my Gu? If not for me worrying about alerting that witch, Red Jade, I would have sent more than a hundred Gu in a massive assault. There would be no way for you to defend against that."


    It wasn''t easy rearing any Gu. The destruction of one left his heart aching.


    The main purpose of the mission was to steal surreptitiously; hence, he had only sent two.


    "Creak." Yan Bin stood up and opened the door. Far outside the building, Motai Lang was sitting on a bench waiting.


    "How was it?" Motai Lang immediately walked over.


    "They were discovered." Yan Bin shook his head. "He was clearly asleep but he was able to notice my Gu. I wonder if he had an array formation or an intrinsic Dharma treasure."


    "He is a sword immortal. I heard that sword immortals would take decades to cultivate a ninth-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword. It would take a few years to master one only with all sorts of precious items selected." Motai Lang continued, "But, the price to pay is just too much."


    Yan Bin said with a heavy tone, "Regardless, I have already taken action. He will definitely suspect our Motai family."


    "So what if he has suspicions? There isn''t any proof." Motai Lang frowned. "However, we should rush back tomorrow morning and tell Grandfather."


    "Alright." Yan Bin agreed.


    Early the next morning, the Motai family convoy left Grand Dominance City and embarked on their journey home.


    "They are returning?" Inside Qin Manor, Qin Yun received news of Motai family''s departure. He also felt somewhat relieved.


    ******


    Several days later.


    An immortal crane flew amid the clouds. Standing above it was a middle-aged Daoist. He overlooked his surroundings and could vaguely make out an ancient city.


    "We have reached Grand Dominance. Crane, descend," said the middle-aged Daoist.


    The crane immediately swept downwards into Grand Dominance City and rushed to County Governor Manor.


    ¡­


    That afternoon.


    Qin Yun dashed to the riverbank and saw two figures standing within a pavilion far away. One of them was Yi Xiao, who was dressed in pale yellow clothes, while the other was a middle-aged Daoist.


    "Yi Xiao''s Uncle-Master is here?" Qin Yun''s heart tightened and immediately walked over.


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun as she walked out the pavilion and headed towards him.


    The duo faced each other.


    "My Uncle-Master is here." Yi Xiao said with a smile. "I''ll be leaving Grand Dominance today."


    "You are leaving today?" Qin Yun was taken aback before he nodded slightly. Separation had finally come.


    The two walked alongside the riverbank.


    "Two things had made my trip to Grand Dominance delightful. First, it was the slaying of Water God, allowing us to save countless people. Second, it was to know you, Qin Yun." Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    "I''m rather happy too." Qin Yun said wistfully, "But, it''s unknown when we will meet again after this separation."


    Yi Xiao said with a smile, "We are cultivators. We will naturally have a chance of meeting. Besides¡­"


    Yi Xiao''s eyes flashed a complicated look. She looked into the distant sky and said, "Besides, I will be at Jiang Prefecture''s Wusu County''s Windblast Pavilion on 25th February every year. I''ll spend a few days there."


    "Oh? Wusu County is rather close to my Grand Dominance County. I''ll definitely be there," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright."


    Yi Xiao continued looking into the sky. "In fact, 25th February is my birthday but it is also the day my father abandoned me at Windblast Pavilion."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    "Let''s meet again next year on 25th February at Windblast Pavilion," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "See you there." Qin Yun nodded.


    Yi Xiao nodded slightly before leaving.


    Qin Yun looked at her.


    ¡­


    The middle-aged Daoist walked towards Yi Xiao from afar. She reached him and said, "Uncle-Master, we can leave at your convenience."


    "This young brother, Qin Yun, has helped you greatly this time. I''ll have a chat with him," said the Daoist with a laugh.


    Yi Xiao was slightly taken aback before nodding.


    He walked over.


    When Qin Yun saw the middle-aged Daoist walking to him, he could not help but feel perplexed. The Daoist walked over with a smile. "I''m Yi Xiao''s Uncle-Master, Mingxiang."


    "Greetings, Senior Mingxiang," greeted Qin Yun.


    Mingxiang nodded. "I can tell that you have some feelings for Yi Xiao?"


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    "However, I''ll like to advise you to give up on that thought." Mingxiang''s eyes were filled with coldness. He said indifferently, "My disciple-nephew is the eldest disciple of Divine Firmament Chapter''s current generation. At a young age, his strength is in no way inferior to mine. In the future, he will definitely attain the Connate Golden Core realm! He and Yi Xiao are a pair made in heaven. Even the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family will be delighted for this to happen."


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "You want to be together with Yi Xiao? Firstly, Yi Xiao''s master will not agree to it. The Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family will not agree to it either." The middle-aged Daoist suffused coldness. "Yi Xiao is only nineteen this year but she has already perfected her Five-elemental Lightning Dharma. She is at the perfected twelfth stage of Qi Refinement. She has rendered great service by killing Water God and the sect will bestow her with rewards. Her return this time might allow her to enter the Connate realm at one go. What about you? You are already twenty-one but you have yet to enter the Connate realm. You are inferior even when compared to Yi Xiao, much less when compared with my disciple-nephew."


    "Furthermore, the successful slaying of Water God was because of the plan created by my Divine Firmament Chapter and the treasures it had provided. You were only responsible for melee combat. You rubbed off some of Yi Xiao''s achievements! You obtained great merit and apparently received a lot of benefits from the things left behind by Water God? Hmph, these benefits are yours. Just know your place."


    "In the future, you are prohibited from meeting her!"


    "You do not deserve her!"


    "If I were to know that you dare meet her, don''t you blame me for being heartless! Hmph!"


    The middle-aged Daoist turned around after speaking his piece.


    He had been watching from the side for a moment and had realized that Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were apparently having an extraordinary relationship. He knew that something was amiss! His disciple-nephew was the eldest disciple of his peers. Daoist Mingxiang had watched him grow up, so he was naturally most pleased if his disciple-nephew was able to become Dao partners with Yi Xiao. Even among the Divine Firmament Zhang family''s Young Master Fu and Sixteenth Prince, he believed that Young Master Fu was too young at the age of sixteen and did not know a thing about love. As for Sixteenth Prince? In his opinion, Sixteenth Prince could wipe out the thoughts of snatching Yi Xiao from Divine Firmament Chapter''s eldest disciple!


    As for Qin Yun? Daoist Mingxiang thought nothing of him!


    He came to Yi Xiao''s side.


    "Uncle-Master, what did you talk about?" queried Yi Xiao.


    "Nothing much, just some idle chatter. He sure has guts to dare kill Water God." The middle-aged Daoist smiled. "Alright, let''s leave. Crane!"


    Phew.


    The crane swooped down from the sky.


    The middle-aged Daoist held Yi Xiao and jumped onto the crane''s back. With a woosh, they tore through the void. On the crane''s back, Yi Xiao could not help but turn back to look at the young man who was standing by the riverbank. What would it be like and when would it be before they would meet again after this separation?

 71 Seventh-grade Flying Sword

    Chapter 71: Seventh-grade Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Wow, an immortal!"


    "They are immortals! Immortals!" Many people by the riverbank exclaimed. Many of them had never seen the rare occurrence of cultivators flying into the air.


    Qin Yun looked up as the crane gradually turned smaller before it finally disappeared into the clouds.


    He recalled his first encounter with Yi Xiao. It was during the Courtesan Belle selection at the Flower Solarium river. Back then, she had used Palm Lightning¡­ They had dealt with White Tiger together at Green Tooth Mountain and fought hordes of demons¡­ They had jointly fought Water God¡­ and he had carried her while engaging in Sword Kinesis Flight¡­


    Everything was still fresh on his mind.


    "Yi Xiao, bon voyage." Qin Yun said softly.


    "I''ll meet you again at Wusu County''s Windblast Pavilion on the 25th of February."


    At that moment, Qin Yun felt a tinge of longing and distress. Only then did he fully realize: he had unknowingly developed feelings for Yi Xiao.


    "However, that Uncle-Master of hers sure is interesting. He truly cares for his wards but he''s overly strict." Qin Yun suffused a smile when he thought of the unpleasant encounter. He had experienced too many life and death situations in the three years of war on the northern borders. Many of his good friends had died in battle. After seeing so much of it, many things paled in comparison. He did not think much of Daoist Mingxiang''s threat.


    He also understood what Daoist Mingxiang meant. He was from the Divine Firmament Chapter, so be it the eldest senior brother or Yi Xiao, he had watched them grow up. As such, Daoist Mingxiang preferred that the eldest senior brother end up with Yi Xiao. It was only human nature.


    "How can you think to preside over matters of the heart? However, with Yi Xiao''s status, I first have to reach the Connate realm and have the confidence to match Daoist Mingxiang so that he won''t be able to stand in my way." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Even though he had grasped Misty Rain Sword Intent early on, Qin Yun felt that he could only confidently match Daoist Mingxiang after attaining the Connate realm. Daoist Mingxiang was, after all, from a Daoist sacred land. The cultivation heritage he trained in was also extremely brilliant. When both parties cultivated in brilliant cultivation methods, the differences were magnified based on one''s Dharma treasures and cultivation realms.


    In the past, he was unable to perceive the Heaven and Earth without Heaven Man Unity. Yet he achieved Expertise Nearing Dao to grasp the Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    After killing Water God, he first felt the knot in his heart untangle. After that, he could perceive the Heaven and Earth. Also, he gained new insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent on a daily basis.


    Why¡­


    Qin Yun had kept this matter a secret but Yi Xiao had guessed that he had grasped sword intent and even kept it a secret on his behalf. She did not dare to leak the news. That was because being able to achieve Expertise Nearing Dao at the Postnatal realm to attain sword intent indicated that one''s heart was aligned with the essence of Sword Dao. If one could perceive the Heaven and Earth, one could truly begin reflecting on the charms of the Heavenly Dao and undergo even more rapid improvements.


    This was also why great demons would think of means to kill him once it was exposed.


    "I wonder what it will be like when we meet on the 25th of February," Qin Yun muttered to himself before he turned around and left.


    ¡­


    Half a month later, it was late at night in Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass in his yard. A silver flying sword flew around inside the compound and appeared like a misty rain. It fluttered around in the air creating beautiful trajectories. Wherever the sword beam traveled, it left behind a misty rain. Everything was a haze as the might remained contained but constantly increased.


    "Retrieve." Qin Yun beckoned as the silver flying sword flew back into his palm and entered his dantian, where it transformed into a sword ball.


    "It''s no wonder legendary Connate Golden Core experts can undergo decades of seclusion to meditate on the Dao." Qin Yun nodded. "I once thought that it would be monotonous but now, from the looks of it, the enlightenment gained from meditating over the Dao on a daily basis is intoxicating. The insights accumulated will keep increasing and eventually transform into strength."


    Of course, Connate Golden Core experts were slower at meditating over the more profound Heavenly Dao''s charms than he was.


    He stood up and returned to his room.


    Inside his room, he sat cross-legged on the bed and began attuning his breathing. Now, having attained Heaven Man Unity, the Heaven and Earth energies would automatically surge into his body. They were mild, but they bolstered Qin Yun''s preparations. The Quintessential Essence that had condensed into a vortex in his dantian had gradually become thicker. It was also very nourishing to his dantian. The stronger his dantian, the more Quintessential Essence he could take in.


    As usual, after attuning his breathing, it was time to cultivate his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Phew." He took out a large cloth bag from his Cosmic Bag. The moment the cloth bag opened, he enveloped the contents with Quintessential Essence. Items like Purple Gold Dust, Three-colored Silver, Astral Patterned Steel, and Sparking Starstones flew out and landed on the ground, forming a pile.


    He left the cloth bag in a corner.


    Qin Yun extended his hand and a sword beam flew out from his fingertip, transforming into a silver flying sword that hovered over the precious materials.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    With the circulative spell, the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s surface took on a lustrous flow. The precious materials beneath it turned into dots of light that surged into the Intrinsic Flying Sword. It refined and absorbed the materials much faster than back when he had yet to finish refining his Intrinsic Flying Sword. As it grew stronger, its refinement and absorption speed naturally increased as well.


    The absorption continued for about five minutes.


    "Weng¨C"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword began to vibrate, issuing a sword hum. The suction strength abruptly increased and was like a bottomless hole that could absorb everything.


    "It''s about to begin the breakthrough!" Qin Yun was delighted. It was the critical moment for the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s breakthrough.


    The Purple Gold Dust, Three-colored Silver, Astral Patterned Steel, and Sparkling Starstones were rapidly reducing at a visible rate. The pile of materials kept shrinking and large amounts of dregs formed. When eighty percent of the materials were refined and absorbed, the Intrinsic Flying Sword finally stopped vibrating. The sword hums came to a rest and the room returned to silence.


    Qin Yun looked at the silver flying sword that seemed like a misty illusion. He knew that this misty illusion originated from the Smokelike Water. His Intrinsic Flying Sword could break through to the seventh-grade mainly because, out of all the precious materials, the Smokelike Water provided a major boost.


    "Seventh-grade."


    Qin Yun beckoned and the silver flying sword flew to his palm. The three-inch-long flying sword was rather dainty and seemed no different from a toy in his palm. However, through its misty illusions and water-like body, it was more resplendent and beautiful than even pearls and precious stones.


    "My precious." Qin Yun looked delighted. "Most of the treasures obtained after killing Water God have been invested into it before it could reach the seventh-grade. However, with it being my Intrinsic Flying Sword, I can produce the might of a fifth-grade Dharma treasure when using it."


    This might would be sufficiently terrifying.


    If Quintessential Essence was the foundation of casting Dharma spells, then sword intent was the soul of flying sword-arts. As for the Intrinsic Flying Sword itself, it was a weapon!


    The importance of foundation could not be stressed enough. Strong Quintessential Essence allowed one to cast stronger Dharma spells! For example, Yi Xiao had used the False Core Pill''s Dharmic powers to cast Dharma spells like Formless Yin Lightning and Cast Beans for Soldiers. If Qin Yun had not reached Heaven Man Unity, he would have to wait till the Connate False Core realm before he could use sword kinesis. Even if he had attained Heaven Man Unity, the stronger the Quintessential Essence, the more Heaven and Earth powers he could use.


    Quintessential Essence was Dharmic power, which was the foundation. With rich Dharmic powers, strength would only increase fundamentally and sharply.


    Sword intent was the soul! Once attacks possessed a soul, the might they produced was naturally extraordinary.


    The Dharma treasure itself was also extremely important. A terrifying Dharma treasure could allow one''s strength to dramatically increase. For example, if Daoist Red Jade''s Crimson Fire Gourd were to land in the hands of an ordinary Connate False Core realm cultivator, just the flames it spewed could allow them to fight someone at the Connate True Core realm. For instance, if Water God had the fifth-grade Dharma treasure, Crimson Fire Gourd, just the flames it released would have burned Qin Yun and Yi Xiao to death. That was the might of a Dharma treasure! The greatest asset a cultivator had would typically be a Dharma treasure.


    Places like Daoist sacred lands would have Dharma treasures as the cornerstones of the sect! Dharma treasures could be inherited by one generation after another. However, the Heavenly Dao''s charms could only be understood independently. Similarly, Quintessential Essence required arduous and slow cultivation of the cultivation methods.


    "In the past, my strength could only be considered to barely reach the early stages of the True Core realm. Thankfully, Water God had lost an arm and was fresh out of a breakthrough, allowing me to beat him." Qin Yun looked at the Intrinsic Flying Sword in his palm and felt euphoric. "Now that my Dharma treasure has increased another grade, I already possess strength at the Connate True Core realm. Even if Water God''s arms were intact, I''d be able to rob him of his life in several moves."


    "Next, I should try my best to enter the Connate realm." Qin Yun looked forward to it. "An Intrinsic Flying Sword can purify my Quintessential Essence. Along with the sword intent''s charms and Heaven Man Unity¡­ I''m confident of stepping into the Connate realm before next year''s 25th of February."


    ¡­


    One day after another passed as Qin Yun continued cultivating in peace. There weren''t any more infiltrations of demonic slaves or people seeking to buy the blood. Everything was peaceful as Qin Yun cultivated every day to gain enlightenment.


    During this period, County Governor Wen was promoted! He left Grand Dominance.


    Senior Essence Charm and Daoist Red Jade also left Grand Dominance.


    So it was that three months had passed since Water God''s death.


    "Phew". The cold autumn wind blew. Qin Yun sat by the window on the second level of a restaurant. He was drinking and having some simple dishes.


    "Second Young Master, Second Young Master." Ah Gui rushed to the second level of the restaurant.


    "Ah Gui?" Qin Yun looked at him and said with a smile, "What''s the matter that needs you to be in such a rush?"


    "The new county governor has arrived in Grand Dominance!" Ah Gui said immediately, "Tonight, he will be inviting many important figures of Grand Dominance to a banquet. He has already sent someone to deliver an invitation to Qin Manor. He invites Master and Second Young Master to attend tonight."


    "The new county governor?" Qin Yun nodded slightly.

 72 New County Governor

    Chapter 72: New County Governor


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Grand Dominance, County Governor Manor.


    That night, lanterns had been hung up early in an elegant compound in County Governor Manor. Beautiful women shuttled from table to table. People filled the tables and they exchanged toasts. It was a very lively scene.


    Qin Yun was sitting at the main table. Around him were the Connate False Core realm cultivator, Master Meixia, the newly appointed personal guard commander, Commander Tie, the Hong family''s Patriarch Hong, a county officer, and the new county governor.


    The other tables had officials of County Governor Manor, the army, the personal guards, and the Six Fans Gate. There were also some wealthy and large family heads of Grand Dominance County, as well as other famous figures.


    "Brother Hong, I heard that your ninth son has also knocked open the gate of immortality?" The new county governor appeared rather cultured. His skin was a little dark and his eyes looked as sharp as a hawk''s. When he stared at people, it left them feeling repressed.


    Patriarch Hong said with a laugh, "Lord County Governor, my child had only followed an itinerant cultivator in his cultivation. He was lucky to knock open the gate of immortality. It''s nothing worth mentioning. Nothing at all."


    "So what if he''s an itinerant cultivator? I am an itinerant cultivator as well. Haven''t I entered the Connate realm too?" The new county governor said with a smile.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting at the same table, watched the new county governor.


    According to what his father told him, the new county governor''s name was Gongye Bing. He was once a scholar who barely managed to keep a small official post. However, he focused on cultivation and, after knocking open the gate of immortality, he was naturally placed in important positions by the imperial government. He was promoted again and again¡­ And now, he had entered the Connate False Core realm at just slightly older than sixty years old. As a Connate cultivator, his lifespan was extremely long. He was destined to have a bright future.


    In the Great Chang empire, governing a country needed wisdom. A cultivator that was good at cultivation was not necessarily good at governing.


    However, the people in truly high positions such as Prefecture Overseer, or high officials of the imperial government, could all govern the world. In addition, they had extremely high cultivation realms! For example, the highest authority of the Great Chang empire, Human Emperor, had unified the country and had been in power for three centuries. He was even publicly recognized as one of the strongest figures in the world. The high officials that were under him were also naturally extraordinary.


    "If my son is able to step into the Connate realm, I''ll be smiling even in my sleep," Patriarch Hong said with a chuckle.


    "If there''s time, have your ninth son come to me. Let me see how he¡¯s progressing," County Governor Gongye exchanged a few more words with Patriarch Hong before turning to Qin Yun. "Young Master Qin."


    "Lord County Governor," Qin Yun answered.


    County Governor Gongye''s eyes fixed upon Qin Yun like a hawk''s. He said with a smile, "The person I wished to meet the most after coming to Grand Dominance is you. Grand Dominance''s Water God wreaked havoc for more than two centuries, and the imperial government had made several attempts to get rid of that great demon. But, Water God would always hide in the river once he detected danger. Even Connate Golden Core experts were powerless to do anything about him. Yet, Young Master Qin, you joined forces with a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple and eliminated this huge calamity that plagued millions of citizens of our Grand Dominance County! I, Gongye Bing, am sincerely impressed by you. Really! As Grand Dominance''s county governor, it is my responsibility to bring benefits to the common people. But no matter what I do, it will be incomparable to the great feats you have accomplished."


    "Lord County Governor, you are being humble." Qin Yun said, "You are the official of millions of residents of Grand Dominance, and so are like a father or mother to them. Every action you take will impact countless residents. The wellness of their livelihoods will depend on your governance."


    "By taking up the post of an official, I have to bring benefits to the people. I will naturally do my best and not dare to slack off." County Governor Gongye smiled at Qin Yun with narrowed eyes. Following that, he looked at Master Meixia and began talking about Buddhist matters.


    ¡­


    County Governor Gongye had just taken up his post and appeared rather cordial.


    He spoke to everyone. He even went to converse with other officials and heads of wealthy families.


    "This County Governor Gongye is¡­ completely different from the previous County Governor Wen." Qin Yun drank his wine as he evaluated and observed. "County Governor Wen comes from a large family clan and is from South Hill''s Wen family. With him being rather advanced in age, he handled matters in a lenient and accommodating manner. In fact, he left many things to his son, Wen Chong. As for County Governor Gongye, he has slowly risen from a lowly official to this. Furthermore, he is at the Connate False Core realm. Even if he''s cordial¡­ The formless stance that comes from the Connate False Core realm will exude a suppressive feeling. It can be seen that County Governor Gongye is an extremely overbearing and demanding person. Perhaps, many of the families in Grand Dominance County are in for difficult times in the coming days."


    That day, both the guests and host enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Qin Yun and his father left together.


    ******


    In a study.


    County Governor Gongye sat alone in his study. With a thought, a formless wave emanated, enshrouding the entire study. Even if someone were to suddenly enter the room, they would see darkness and nothing else. He had isolated himself visually and audibly.


    "Hua!"


    Gongye waved his hand and an ancient bronze mirror appeared on his desk. Soon, a black-robed man appeared through the distortions in the bronze mirror. The man had blood-colored brows and his eyes suffused a sanguine light. He was none other than the infamous great fiendish demon¡ªNine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Senior Brother, what''s the matter?" Gongye said with a smile.


    "Junior Brother, congratulations on your promotion. You are now in charge of an area," Nine Mountain Island Lord said with a chuckle.


    Gongye said with a smile, "It''s truly rare for Senior Brother Nine Mountain to congratulate me. Out of all our fellow disciples, I''m a human junior brother ranked seventh. I am the weakest and was always looked down upon. Senior Brother Nine Mountain, you left Cloudfiend Mountain a thousand years ago, declared yourself king, and ruled an area. I remember that in the decades I spent on Cloudfiend Mountain as a disciple, you have only met me once, isn''t that right?"


    "Haha, Junior Brother, I''m a demon while you are a human. We have different comprehension abilities. Although you humans have short lifespans, you can cultivate quickly. We demons enter a seclusion that span decades. Naturally, I didn''t have much time to meet you. Furthermore, you infiltrated the imperial government as a disciple of Cloudfiend Mountain, so I didn''t dare disturb you. After all, wouldn''t a visit from me expose your identity?" The bronze mirror showed Nine Mountain Island Lord smiling. "As for now, I have been in the Jiang Prefecture for a thousand years. When I learned that you were to become an official in the Jiang Prefecture, I naturally had to congratulate you."


    "So you¡¯ve contacted me to congratulate me?" Gongye smiled faintly.


    There were demons that entered Daoist or Buddhist sects.


    So naturally, there were humans that entered fiendish demon sects.


    Gongye was considered a core disciple of Cloudfiend Mountain. He shared the same generation as Nine Mountain Island Lord, so he naturally knew the cruel methods available to fiendish demons. Why would Nine Mountain Island Lord, a Connate Golden Core demon that had lived for many years, contact him without some special reason?


    "Junior Brother, I do have something I must trouble you for," Nine Mountain Island said.


    "Speak. I''m listening," Gongye said with a smile. He wasn¡¯t surprised.


    His senior brother said, "I will not lie to you. My disciple, Water Ape, had helped me gather the blood of children''s hearts. But he was unexpectedly killed by Qin Yun and that Divine Firmament Chapter disciple, Yi Xiao. A large batch of children''s heart blood is now in Qin Yun''s hands. Therefore, I wish for you to help me to get it from Qin Yun at all costs."


    "Oh?" Gongye said with a laugh. "I''ve checked the dossiers, and there are records of three demonic slaves infiltrating Qin Manor. It is suspected that they were sent by you. So you were after the children''s heart blood?"


    "Unfortunately, they failed. Junior Brother, do you have any solutions?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked. "As long as you help me settle this problem, I will definitely reward you."


    "I can help." The corners of Gongye''s mouth suffused a smile. "However, I will need your ancient Fiendcelestial finger bone in exchange."


    "The Fiendcelestial Phalanx?" Nine Mountain Island Lord''s eyes suffused anger. "Impossible."


    "It''s not like I want it forever. Lend it to me for studying and I''ll return it to you in fifty years," Gongye said with a smile. "Senior Brother, do you think I¡¯d dare try to rob you of your items?"


    "Ask for something else. It''s impossible for me to give you the Fiendcelestial Phalanx." Nine Mountain Island Lord''s voice turned deep. Fifty years? Who knew what his human junior brother''s strength would be in fifty years? If he gained the confidence to no longer fear his senior brother, it might be possible that he would refuse to return it.


    Gongye shook his head. "Then, there''s no deal. That Qin Yun is extraordinary. He might even have a top cultivation sect backing him! Furthermore, he has killed Water God and rendered a great service. If I were to deal with him¡­ it would be hard for me to answer to the imperial government."


    "And giving you the Fiendcelestial Phalanx allows you to answer to the imperial government?" Nine Mountain Island Lord scoffed. "Junior Brother, if there''s any internal strife within the human''s imperial government, it''s possible that you end up killing each other, let alone a lone cultivator. I know you possess the means with your official post. Change the condition. I will remember this favor."


    "I met Qin Yun just today. He''s not easy to deal with. Alright, there''s someone calling me from outside. I have to leave." After Gongye finished saying that, he drew back the Dharmic powers he had infused into the bronze mirror, causing the Nine Mountain Island Lord that was displayed on it to disappear into thin air.


    "Hmph!" Gongye sneered. "Trying to order me around? Dream on."


    With that, he got up and left the study.


    "Lord." The personal guards outside were awaiting him at all times.


    "Let''s go. Accompany me to the underground dungeons. Let''s take a look at our Patriarch Liu," Gongye ordered.

 73 Liu Family

    Chapter 73: Liu Family


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The County Governor Manor''s dungeon wasn''t large. With six hundred personal guards in charge of protecting the county governor, there were very few people left to man the dungeons. The dungeon was rather small so the people imprisoned in the dungeon were either servants that had committed crimes in County Governor Manor or mortals that had been specifically captured by the county governor. Those who committed truly heinous crimes would be imprisoned in the massive dungeons of the Six Fans Gate.


    At that moment, a prisoner in County Governor Manor''s dungeon received a visitor.


    The middle-aged man was tied to a wooden frame. His clothes were tattered and one could see the lashes across his body through the holes. He hung his head low and was gasping for his breath.


    "Lord." The tormentors in the dungeon immediately bowed.


    "Patriarch Liu, I have been too busy. I had to meet figures from all around Grand Dominance and could only spare time to see you just now." County Governor Gongye said with a smile as he walked over.


    When the middle-aged man heard the voice, he looked up and saw Gongye walking towards him. He immediately said with a hoarse voice, "Lord County Governor, Lord County Governor! I am willing to serve you faithfully. Please spare my Liu family."


    Previously, the Liu family was considered one of the top three family clans in Grand Dominance County. But in fact, the Liu family had the weakest foundation among the three family clans! The Liu family had worked for the previous county governor, County Governor Wen, but lacked actual strength and a robust foundation. Now that County Governor Wen had been promoted, the Liu family no longer had a backer in Grand Dominance County.


    "Before Lord County Governor arrived in Grand Dominance, I sent people to offer great gifts to you. Lord County Governor, if there''s anything you want my Liu family to do, feel free to instruct us," said the middle-aged man hurriedly.


    "Didn''t I already tell you exactly what I want from the Liu family?" Gongye said.


    The middle-aged man immediately uttered, "But¡­ but¡­"


    "Didn''t someone tell you?" Gongye nodded slightly. "Then, this crime your Liu family suffered has been for nothing! Let me tell you once again. It''s very simple. Your Liu family is to hand over three hundred thousand taels of silver. You can use your stores and houses as collateral too. Once there''s three hundred thousand gathered, the slate of your Liu family will be wiped clean. The matter will not be pursued any further. If you don¡¯t, no one from your Liu family will survive."


    "Three hundred thousand taels of silver. How could my Liu family have that much?" Patriarch Liu''s face was covered in tears. "Lord County Governor, feel free to investigate. In the past, my Liu family worked for County Governor Wen and gave him large amounts of silver. There wasn''t much left. Even if we include the shops and houses, it would barely add up to a hundred thousand taels of silver."


    "I suppose you do not want to live any longer." Gongye nodded slightly. "However, did you know that there are two ways of dying? One way is to die a clean and painless death. The other is to be tortured for half a month, suffering excruciating pain before dying. Hehe, Patriarch Liu, you have only sampled a few of the tortures this dungeon is capable of. The true tortures have not been used yet."


    "I really don''t have that much," Patriarch Liu pleaded.


    "Let Patriarch Liu experience the tortures of the dungeon. Let him experience them for three days. He is only allowed to die after three days!" County Governor Gongye instructed indifferently. "When that time comes, the entire Liu family will accompany him in death."


    "Yes." The tormentor replied respectfully.


    "Gongye Bing! You act with utter disregard for human life. Seeing you treat my Liu family in this way, who would dare work for you?" Patriarch Liu''s face was hideous. "Who would trust you?"


    "Trust? No, all I want is for them to fear me," Gongye scoffed. "As for working for me? There are numerous people throughout the world who are willing to work for me."


    Patriarch Liu howled, "I might be unable to do a thing to you, but there will be retribution. Mark my words!"


    "Retribution?"


    County Governor Gongye sneered before walking out.


    ¡­


    In a particular compound in East Sea County.


    The fat Liu Qi was pacing around the yard, his figure illuminated by a dim lantern by the side.


    "Qi''er." A woman walked out of the house. "Is there any news from Grand Dominance?"


    "Mother, there isn''t any," Liu Qi said immediately.


    Just as his voice faded, the door opened as a young page rushed in with a letter in hand. "Young Master, Young Master. There''s a letter. A letter!"


    Liu Qi quickly received it. When he opened the letter, the color in his face drained immediately.


    "What happened?" His mother asked.


    "Father and the rest have been captured." Liu Qi''s voice was trembling. "A group of unknown experts apprehended the Liu family. If it''s as we suspected, it was done by the new county governor."


    Patriarch Liu was very meticulous.


    He had learned of the reputation of the new county governor, Gongye Bing. He knew Gongye did things in a domineering fashion, so he sent the sons and grandsons of the Liu family out of Grand Dominance. They were sent to three places. Direct descendants like Liu Qi had brought more than a hundred thousand taels of silver with them. Even his principal wife and company had followed Liu Qi to Jiang Prefecture''s biggest county, East Sea County! Here, no matter how influential Gongye was, he could not touch them.


    From there, the Liu family was split into three branches.


    Firstly, Patriarch Liu was old so leaving his hometown was difficult for him. Secondly, many stores, restaurants, and houses could not be immediately liquidated. Hence, he and a tiny number of Liu family members had stayed behind in Grand Dominance, believing that the county governor would not engage in ugly acts of transgression in consideration of his status.


    However, he never expected Gongye to be so ruthless. Even offering up all that was left in Grand Dominance was insufficient to make up the three hundred thousand taels of silver¡­ To have that much, the silver given to the three branches had to be taken back to barely make up the number.


    "Husband." The woman immediately slumped to the ground.


    "Mother. Mother." Liu Qi immediately hugged his mother and fell into a panic.


    At that moment, Liu Qi remembered the day his father exhorted him.


    "Qi''er, our Liu family doesn''t have stable foundations. We were only able to grow our estate because of County Governor Wen. He was rather benevolent, but it''s hard to tell how the new county governor would be. With a weak foundation, the Liu family can collapse at any time. We cannot pin our hopes on the new county governor. You are the eldest son of my line. The number of people accompanying you to East Sea County is the highest. In the future, you will have to count on yourself," Patriarch Liu said.


    "Father, leave with us."


    "I have been in Grand Dominance for so many years. I do not wish to leave. If the new county governor demands money, the Grand Dominance Liu family will give him all we have. If he demands my life? That would sully his reputation. It won''t happen," Patriarch Liu said, "No matter what happens to the Grand Dominance Liu family in the future, you and your lineage should never come back. From this day forward, you are the East Sea Liu family."


    "I understand."


    When he recalled that scene with the letter in his hands, Liu Qi understood that the new county governor was a lot more terrifying than originally expected. Before he arrived in Grand Dominance, he had sent people to apprehend the Liu family.


    In the future, his father would no longer be there for him to rely on! The East Sea Liu family would depend on him. He had his mother, his younger siblings, and many Liu followers that now relied on him.


    Liu Qi suddenly found the weight on his shoulders very heavy.


    "Gongye Bing." Liu Qi felt aggrieved and furious but he also felt extremely helpless.


    ******


    On Nine Mountain Island.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord sat in the main hall as his eyes flickered with pangs of anger.


    "My junior brother is no longer wet behind the ears to ignore me in such a manner." Nine Mountain Island Lord grunted softly. He knew that he could not do a thing to his junior brother. On the surface, his junior brother was at the Connate False Core realm, but in order to infiltrate the imperial government, he had masked his strength! His true strength had long reached the Connate True Core realm. Due to the mystic arts that he cultivated in, he was able to completely conceal it.


    Thus, Gongye was confident enough to enter the humans¡¯ imperial government and was unafraid of being discovered. After all, if it became known that he cultivated in Dharma arts used by fiendish demons, the imperial government would definitely kill him.


    With such strength and the imperial government''s force backing Gongye, Nine Mountain Island Lord could not do a thing. As for taking action himself? Perhaps, but Cloudfiend Mountain would be angered! After all, Gongye Bing was an important chess piece that the Cloudfiend Mountain had placed in the imperial government.


    Therefore, despite being a great demon at the Connate Golden Core realm, he was helpless against his junior brother.


    "Master," Azure Ox came in and said respectfully. "What matter requires you summoning me?"


    "Find your fifth junior brother." Nine Mountain Island Lord instructed. "He is at the Connate True Core realm and is adept at flying arts. Now that Charm Essence and Red Jade have left Grand Dominance, have your fifth junior brother infiltrate Qin Manor and kill Qin Yun to snatch the treasures. With his flying arts, he can escape at any time. The officials would not be able to pose a threat to him."


    "Fifth Junior Brother might not be agreeable to that," Azure Ox said.


    "Tell him that if he can obtain the heart blood of the children, the upper volume of the ''Sky Demon Mystic Volumes'' will be given to him," said Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    Azure Ox hesitated for a moment and nodded. "Yes."


    The Sky Demon Mystic Volumes were one of the top heritage of fiendish demons, of which Nine Mountain Island Lord only had the upper volume. Azure Ox was willing to work so hard for so long because he was the only one who had received the upper volume among all the disciples.


    Now, it was being offered to his fifth junior brother.


    It was obvious how much the Nine Mountain Island Lord wanted the children''s heart blood. The main reason was that finding that much blood was difficult with Water God dead.


    ¡­


    Night.


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun and his father, Qin Liehu, were chatting while having tea.


    "The county governor invited many people to tonight''s banquet but you didn''t see the Liu family, right?" Qin Liehu asked.


    "I didn''t." Qin Yun nodded. Some time ago, he had taught the Liu family''s Liu Qi a lesson at Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    "As a silver-badge constable of the Six Fans Gate, I know many people. I heard news that¡­ the Liu family has been apprehended and imprisoned in the County Governor Manor''s dungeons." Qin Liehu shook his head. "This new county governor of ours sure is ruthless. He''s a lot more ruthless than County Governor Wen."


    Qin Yun was astonished. "The county governor just arrived in Grand Dominance today and he already had the Liu family apprehended?"


    "The Liu family was caught before he even arrived," said Qin Liehu.

 74 Great Demon Golden Firmamen

    Chapter 74: Great Demon Golden Firmament


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "The ones sent were experts that serve the County Governor. The Liu family was unable to put up any resistance, so it was probably more than one cultivator," said Qin Liehu.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    An official at the county governor level would have six hundred personal guards assigned to him by the imperial government. The government would also assign a personal guard commander at the Connate False Core realm! The county governor himself could naturally hire cultivators, and some itinerant cultivators were willing to pledge their allegiance.


    ¡­


    The Liu family had been declared guilty.


    There were many crimes that they were convicted of, the most grave being ''colluding with demons!'' There were also crimes like monopolizing the market and committing murder for gain. The news quickly spread throughout Grand Dominance County.


    "The Liu family is guilty of the most heinous crimes. The Heavens have shone their light. They have finally been apprehended."


    "My shop has suffered from the Liu family''s price manipulation. A shop that''s worth two thousand taels ended up having its price repressed to eight hundred taels. What despicable people. Now, retribution has befallen them." One could hear all sorts of discussions regarding the Liu family in Grand Dominance County''s restaurants and tea shops.


    With the Liu family being one of the top three families in Grand Dominance County, their undoing was naturally an important matter.


    "Some of the Liu family had engaged in rape and even murdered their victims for fear of being exposed. Such grave injustice has finally been put to a stop."


    "So many people in our Grand Dominance County have been killed by demons...so it''s because of their collusion with the Liu family."


    "Lord County Governor has sent silver to the victims. Some of them were truly pitiful."


    "Lord County Governor sure is just."


    In a tea shop along the sides of the street, Qin Yun was drinking his tea and listening to a storyteller inside the tea shop narrating the evil deeds of the Liu family.


    They could be heard almost everywhere in Grand Dominance County these past few days.


    "Perhaps some of the storytellers are simply idle people in the restaurants and tea shops, but there are some that have been secretly planted by the county governor himself."


    "However, some of the crimes, such as colluding with demons, are likely fabricated. As for crimes such as monopolizing prices, they are likely real." Qin Yun agreed as well. After all, a large family clan like the Liu family had County Governor Wen backing it. It would naturally act in an aggressive manner. Furthermore, good and bad always mixed together, so it''s not surprising that some of the Liu family members would murder for gain, considering their background.


    "It is a mixture of truth and falsehood."


    "Now that they¡¯ve been declared guilty of the charges, the Liu family has no means of resisting," Qin Yun thought to himself.


    ******


    In a particular residence.


    County Governor Gongye was dressed in ordinary robes as he led the commander of his personal guards and a few subordinates. He looked at an elder in front of him. Beside the elder were three children who clung tightly to his leg.


    "Sir, take this silver. Take good care of the children. As long as I remain in Grand Dominance County, I will absolutely stop people from bullying the commoners. If there''s any matter that troubles you, air your grievances in County Governor Manor. I will act on your behalf." Gongye placed two silver ingots in the elder''s hands.


    The elder''s hands were wrinkled and injured. He trembled as he grabbed the two silver ingots.


    The personal guard commander beside him said, "Sir, this is the newly appointed Lord County Governor. If he says he will act on your behalf, he will definitely act on your behalf."


    "Thank you, Lord County Governor! Thank you!" The elder immediately knelt down. He urged the three children to his side to kneel down. "Quick, quickly kowtow to Lord County Governor!"


    "Sigh, it was our fault. We allowed the demons to collude with the Liu family to harm the populace. Your family has suffered." Gongye sighed and said, "Go on and live peacefully. Take good care of these three children."


    "Yes, yes." The elder''s wrinkles were deeply recessed like canyons. His eyes were filled with tears.


    Gongye nodded and left the house. The guards placed a basket of fish and grain before departing.


    Back at the entrance to the house, the elder looked at the county governor and company''s departing figures. He muttered, "The heavens are just! What just heavens!"


    ¡­


    Gongye led his subordinates and traveled amid the crowds on the street. Not everyone in the crowd recognized him as the ''Lord County Governor'' that wielded the highest status in Grand Dominance County.


    "How much silver has been given out over the past few days?" Gongye asked in a hushed tone.


    A subordinate beside him whispered, "Lord, a total of about eight thousand taels of silver has been given to the victims of the Liu family and the victims of the families that were destroyed by demons."


    "Continue finding victims. Even if it has nothing to do with the Liu family, blame it on the Liu family. Give out a total of ten thousand taels of silver," Gongye instructed. "This silver is all meant for the victims. Don''t let me catch anyone taking it for himself. Whoever engages in embezzlement shall die."


    After the sack of the Liu family, aside from a portion that entered the county governor''s pockets, most of the silver, restaurants, and shops that belonged to the Liu family had to be recorded officially. They fell under County Governor Manor''s accounts. Gongye naturally appeared generous by using public funds to placate the masses.


    "Yes, my lord," The subordinate answered. Following that, he chuckled softly and said, "Lord, since you have given out so much silver over the past few days, many commoners of Grand Dominance County have been calling you the just lord from heaven."


    The corners of Gongye''s mouth suffused a smile.


    Suddenly, a figure rushed towards him from afar. When he came close to Gongye, he reported in hush tones, "Lord, Vice Minister Wang is in County Governor Manor and wishes for an audience."


    "Oh?" Gongye nodded and waved his hand. "Got it. Let him wait."


    "Yes." The subordinate quickly retreated.


    Gongye chuckled. "There have been so many people seeking an audience with me over the past few days. Have they been frightened?"


    He casually strolled through Grand Dominance City and looked at the land under his charge. In the coming years, he would be the emperor of this land! Of course, he still needed to show political results to the imperial government.


    "Oh?"


    Gongye''s eyes paused as he looked across the river. There, a scholar and a beautiful woman were walking alongside each other.


    The subordinates behind him traced his gaze and saw the scene across the river.


    "Investigate that woman''s name and place of residence." The corners of Gongye''s mouth curled into a deep and meaningful smile.


    "Yes, my lord." The follower immediately smiled obsequiously.


    *****


    Late into the night.


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the bed as the silver flying sword floated above a pile of metal-elemental objects. Although most of the precious materials had been expended, and he was now using relatively ordinary materials, Qin Yun continued to cultivate his Intrinsic Flying Sword daily.


    "Chi. Chi. Chi." A large number of light dots spread out from the pile of metal-elemental objects, constantly flying up and into the silver flying sword.


    And at that moment¡ª


    High up in Grand Dominance City, a figure flew from afar. Finally, he stopped above a tiny lake. He overlooked Qin Manor that was situated beside the tiny mirror-like lake.


    "Qin Manor?" The figure hovered in midair. He had a pair of dark gold wings. At that moment, his face was covered in pale gold feathers.


    He was Nine Mountain Island Lord''s fifth disciple¡ªGreat Demon Golden Firmament. His true form was that of a golden condor.


    "Just a junior that has yet to enter the Connate realm." Golden Firmament felt contempt. There were only three of Nine Mountain Island Lord''s disciples that had reached the Connate True Core realm. Golden Firmament was the best at flying and escape arts. Even his master was not his match in those areas. If not for the upper volume of the Sky Demon Mystic Volumes that his master had offered him, he would not have agreed to the mission.


    "That human punk named Qin Yun is nothing worth mentioning. But I have to be careful about the sword immortal sect that''s backing him."


    "This is a sword immortal. If the sect backing him has sent a senior to watch over his Qin family, I might fall into an ambush if I''m not careful," Golden Firmament thought to himself.


    Golden Firmament flipped his hand and a golden bracelet appeared in it.


    "Go!"


    Golden Firmament threw the golden bracelet down. Powered by his demonic powers at the Connate True Core realm, the golden bracelet''s strength was terrifying yet it could stealthily attack from above. This was a seventh-grade Dharma treasure that Golden Firmament was rather famous for. He had named it ''Immortal Sealing Bracelet'' and although it sounded a little aggressive, he was able to easily deal with typical cultivators at the Connate False Core realm with his Immortal Sealing Bracelet.


    ¡­


    Back inside Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun was cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword and his psyche was infused into it. He could easily sense a thousand feet of his surroundings. Although Golden Firmament was high in the sky, he was only six to seven hundred feet above Qin Manor. Qin Yun was shocked when he discovered the great demon. His heart tensed as he secretly used Heaven Man Unity to engage in sword kinesis. He was ready to face the enemy.


    Through the Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun ''looked'' at the other party''s appearance. "It looks like Great Demon Golden Firmament? The fifth disciple of Nine Mountain Island Lord. Indeed, he hasn''t given up."


    "Oh no, it''s the Immortal Sealing Bracelet!"


    When he discovered the golden bracelet Dharma treasure being thrown down, Qin Yun''s expression changed drastically. "I cannot clash with him in Qin Manor or there might be collateral damage¡­"


    He did not dare to hesitate.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind, "Go!"


    Sou!


    The silver flying sword that was hovering in midair instantly left the room and shot into the sky!


    Unlike Golden Firmament''s stealthy attack, the flying sword flew straight into the sky with its speed instantly accelerated to its maximum. It''s strength also reached its apex! After all, he was dealing with a Connate True Core great demon that had made a name for himself¡­ Qin Yun did not dare hold back. This was because he could very well lose, even if he used all his strength! He was a lot stronger than when he killed Water God, but his strength was only at the ordinary Connate True Core realm.


    The flying sword tore through the air, leaving two trails in its wake. Even the naked eye could see the distorted airflow being split into two.


    "Rumble~" The flying sword was so fast that it generated sonorous thunder. The friction of its movement also created thunderous fire.


    The momentum and might were much stronger than when it killed Water God! It was even faster!


    "I''ve been discovered?" Higher up, Golden Firmament saw the terrifying flying sword rushing at him. He could not help but be astounded. "Sword beams with thunder? Sword-formed thunderous fire?"


    The golden bracelet suddenly expanded and came straight down at the incoming silver flying sword.

 75 Sense of Urgency

    Chapter 75: Sense of Urgency


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At the moment the golden bracelet expanded, there was a formless suction force that enveloped the area like a maelstrom in the sea. It pulled at everything into its devouring core.


    "Phew." Not only was the silver flying sword fast, it was also intelligent. Like a fish, it escaped the suction force with a whoosh. It struck the bracelet from the side causing it to fly away in a diagonal fashion.


    Following that, the silver flying sword whistled straight for Golden Firmament.


    A treasure in Golden Firmament''s palm had already increased in size suddenly. It transformed into a black spear that had fiery red patterns on its pole! Demons were different from humans. Most humans were good at long-range attacks. Even a sword immortal like Qin Yun was attacking from afar by releasing his flying sword! As for demons, most of them were proficient at melee combat. Water God, Golden Firmament, and Azure Ox were examples. Even some demon leaders and lesser demons were adept at melee combat.


    Demons that cast Dharma spells from afar were exceedingly rare.


    "Boom!"


    As the sword attacked, Golden Firmament immediately brandished the black spear in his hands. The fiery runic patterns on the pole lit up and instantly, a blazing inferno surrounded and attacked the flying sword.


    "Bam!"


    The flying sword tore through the obstructing flames and struck the spear. The aftershocks from the clash radiated outwards as the surrounding air distorted. Some of the taller trees broke off from the aftershocks. Thankfully, the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers were vibrating as well, reducing the aftershocks. It protected Qin Manor and the surrounding residences.


    Even so, there were remnant aftershocks that reached Qin Manor and to the other residences. Many windows and doors rattled as a result.


    This was only the result of the Heaven and Earth powers weakening the aftershocks! If not for Qin Yun controlling the Heaven and Earth powers, the repercussions would be only greater.


    "His strength is indeed much stronger than Water God." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Golden Firmament moved his spear extremely fast, causing wind and fire to gather. Augmented by the powers of wind and fire, the spear not only influenced the surrounding void, it caused the silver flying sword to fly in chaotic eddies. Furthermore, the spear was extremely fast, much faster than the amputated water ape. Naturally, it managed to put up a complete defense.


    In the rumbling thunder, the silver sword streaked across the sky, leaving behind meandering fiery trajectories. It surrounded Golden Firmament and attacked time and time again while hurtling back and forth.


    However, Golden Firmament''s defense was impenetrable as though he still had strength left.


    "Such a commotion would definitely be detected by human experts in Grand Dominance City. They would also report it to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. I have to kill Qin Yun as fast and possible and nab the treasure. Hmph, this Connate sword immortal that''s guarding Qin Yun is probably a Connate False Core realm sword immortal. Although he can produce strength at the Connate True Core realm, he cannot threaten me." Golden Firmament was just about to charge down.


    But suddenly, the silver sword that was crazily hurtling back and forth in its assaults changed its tactics.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    It was as gentle as the wind but erratic in its drifting.


    The silver sword instantly transformed into a gigantic sword beam that enveloped Golden Firmament!


    This was Qin Yun''s most powerful attack in melee combat¡ªCyclic Sword Flash! And ever since he grasped Heaven Man Unity, making him capable of performing sword kinesis, he had been rewarded by his daily rumination. Furthermore, with his flying sword attacking his enemy at a distance, there was no need for defense, only offense! Qin Yun had modified Cyclic Sword Flash, which was used to protect himself, to an attack that surrounded the enemy, launching a barrage of attacks at the enveloped target.


    It also made Cyclic Sword Flash transform into a special move that could trap and kill the enemy. Such a special move was only grasped two months after Qin Yun killed Water God.


    "What?" Golden Firmament found himself surrounded by sword beams. Instantly, it took a great deal from him to defend. His black spear brandished around as wind and fire burgeoned into a swimming dragon that circled the surroundings. Occasionally, it would force Cyclic Sword Flash''s radius to expand a little but immediately, the radius of Cyclic Sword Flash would shrink once again.


    "Slash!" Failing to defend properly, the sword beam slashed across his abdomen and tore through layers of feathers. He had suffered a slash wound and blood was oozing out.


    "Such a powerful flying sword death blow. Which sword immortal is it?" Golden Firmament was alarmed.


    The feeling of being surrounded by the Cyclic Sword Flash left his heart in trepidation. Thankfully for him, the Cyclic Sword Flash was meant to fight a group of enemies. Even though it had been modified to ensnare and kill an enemy, it was only better at ensnaring but was weak at killing! The corresponding physical attack naturally lacked strength. However, if Golden Firmament were to suffer another ten or twenty strikes, he would probably die there and then.


    "I have to leave quickly!"


    Golden Firmament immediately flapped his wings. Boom! A howling wind was generated, blocking even the Cyclic Sword Flash. The Immortal Sealing Bracelet that was somewhere else also shrunk into a point of light before entering Golden Firmament''s body.


    Sou!


    While being enveloped by the strong winds, Golden Firmament instantly flew into the distance and in a blink of an eye, disappeared into the horizon.


    ¡­


    After escaping into the clouds, Golden Firmament looked at the wound on his abdomen. "There was truly an ambush! The sword art that was used to ensnare me was something I couldn''t even defend against. It has to be some flying sword art''s secret deathblow. From the might of the flying sword¡­ the sword immortal sent by the sword immortal sect must be at the Connate False Core realm. But that person has attained Heaven Man Unity. Furthermore, he has mastered a secret deathblow. No wonder he dares to protect Qin Manor."


    "If I wasn''t great at escaping, I would not have been able to break out of that flying sword deathblow. I have to leave. I can''t stay any longer." Golden Firmament spread his wings once again and quickly vanished into the clouds.


    ******


    By now, residents of Qin Manor and the surrounding residences had come out. Although the force had been weakened by the Heaven and Earth powers, Qin Yun''s control of the Heaven and Earth powers was limited. It still left doors and windows rattling. There were even some large trees that had their top halves ripped off. It naturally attracted many people.


    Those who came out fast were the guards that were part of the night watch. They had even seen Golden Firmament that was enveloped by wind and fire! They had seen the terrifying commotion from the battle.


    The battle had ended by the time the slower ones came out.


    "What happened?" Qin Liehu came out with clothes draped on him. The battle was over.


    "Master." A servant in charge of the night watch pointed in midair. "There was a battle in the sky. It caused a huge commotion."


    Typical mortals could not discern whether the perpetrators were demons or cultivators from five to six hundred feet away.


    "Battle?" Qin Liehu scanned his surroundings and saw some broken trees. All the leaves had been shaken off but the leaves on the bottom half were intact. He could not help but be alarmed.


    And elsewhere.


    Qin Yun came out of the room and looked up into the sky. "Golden Firmament would probably think it''s a Connate realm sword immortal."


    Having encountered such a situation, no one would believe that the person behind the flying sword was a Postnatal realm sword immortal. The might displayed was just too horrifying.


    "My Misty Rain Sword Intent''s strongest attack, Cyclic Sword Flash, was transformed into an attack that ensnares and kills the enemy. He must think that it''s some secret move from a flying sword heritage. Unfortunately, I can only demonstrate the most basic sword kinesis through Heaven Man Unity. The heritage I have might be complete and it offers several secret deathblows but I can''t perform any of them."


    Top heritage was excessively demanding on Quintessential Essence and Dharmic powers!


    The stronger his Quintessential Essence and Dharmic powers were, the more complicated and esoteric moves he could perform. Qin Yun could only perform the most basic sword kinesis through Heaven Man Unity. The Cyclic Sword Flash was in fact just a move from his Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    "Over the past three months, I have increased my sword intent greatly. My flying sword has reached the seventh-grade but I''m only able to match Golden Firmament." Qin Yun thought to himself. "In terms of strength, Golden Firmament is the weakest among the three Connate True Core realm great demons under Nine Mountain Island Lord. He''s only average in strength but his flying and escaping arts are the strongest."


    All demons had a particular trait they were proficient at.


    Golden Firmament was proficient at flying and escaping! His flying and escaping arts were even better than his master, Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    Azure Ox was the most ferocious when battling head-on. He had even clashed with a Connate Golden Core realm cultivator in the past.


    Finally, the Venomous Wyrm was the most troublesome in every aspect.


    However, the other two had relatively ordinary means of escape. They naturally would not dare infiltrate human cities or they might get obstructed by Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. Only Golden Firmament that was best at flying and escaping arts¡­ was willing to take the risk.


    "Back then, three demonic slaves were sent here. Now, even a great demon at the Connate True Core realm is willing to take the risk. It''s highly unusual." Qin Yun thought to himself. "Could it be that Nine Mountain Island Lord and Water God have an extremely good relationship? This possibility cannot be eliminated but it''s very unlikely. The most likely reason is that¡­ I have something that Nine Mountain Island Lord wants."


    "What precious treasure do I have that I do not know of but Nine Mountain Island Lord knows about?"


    "Uh¡­"


    "Among the items left behind by Water God, there are indeed some that I have not been able to identify."


    Qin Yun''s mind raced as he took out a gray bottle from the Cosmic Bag by his waist. "In the past, the Motai family had wanted this and even threatened me. That night, Gu were sent to steal something. It was likely the Motai family. However, from beginning to end, the Motai refuses to explain the origin of the blood."


    "Could this be what Nine Mountain Island Lord wants?" Qin Yun guessed.


    Following that, he kept the gray bottle inside his Cosmic Bag.


    "Regardless, Nine Mountain Island Lord has not given up."


    "This will be troublesome." Qin Yun could not help but feel a sense of urgency. "I had planned on peacefully cultivating for the next few months and head for Wusu County on the 25th of February. But now, from the looks of it, I have to be constantly vigilant. I have to step into the Connate realm as soon as possible! Once I step into the Connate realm, my strength will increase greatly as well."


    ¡­


    Elsewhere, at County Governor Manor.


    County Governor Gongye was standing at a corridor and watching from afar. He looked at the battle that happened in midair. There were dark runic patterns condensed on his eyes, allowing him to see the battle that was more than five kilometers away clearly. He could see Golden Firmament and how the flying sword had used Cyclic Sword Flash to trap Golden Firmament. Finally, he saw Golden Firmament flee.


    "It''s Disciple-Nephew Golden Firmament." Gongye frowned slightly. "The flying sword art that appeared at the end was truly powerful. It was able to completely ensnare Golden Firmament. Even a Connate False Core realm sword immortal has to spend a great deal of time to master such a unique deathblow. The sword immortal sect backing Qin Yun truly thinks highly of him. There are seniors from his sect protecting him!"


    "Indeed, having garnered such great merit, his sect has also enjoyed an increase of providence''s favor. They are definitely delighted as well." Gongye thought to himself.


    "Lord County Governor," Commander Fang rushed over and said, "There is a great demon combating with a sword immortal above Qin Manor. Should we¡­"


    "The great demon has left! There''s no time to pursue it. Just make a record of it." Gongye said before turning to leave.

 76 Dealing with Qin Yun

    Chapter 76: Dealing with Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Days later, in County Governor Manor''s dungeon.


    A beautiful woman was looking anxiously into the dungeons. Far into the distance, a scholar was being imprisoned.


    "Hubby! Hubby!" The beautiful woman shouted.


    "Leave after you are done seeing him." County Governor Gongye, who was standing beside her, grabbed her. He easily pulled her out of the dungeon. With Gongye beside her, the beautiful woman had no means of resisting.


    The imprisoned scholar breathed softly. Pain effused from every wound on his body as he could barely make out his wife''s voice.


    "Dear!"


    The scholar looked up but his wife could no longer be seen in the dark dungeon.


    ¡­


    In another room in County Governor Manor, there was an elegant bed. Even the blankets were made of extremely soft and smooth silk. The screens that enclosed the room were extremely intricate.


    Phew.


    Gongye waved his arm and the beautiful woman stumbled and fell onto the bed.


    "Woman, if you wish to save your husband, there is only one way." Gongye stood there with eyes resembling a wolf''s. He stared at the beautiful woman in front of him.


    The woman clenched her teeth. She knew that the person facing her was the county governor, someone who wielded so much power that he could hoodwink the public. She and her husband had no means to put up a struggle.


    "Lord County Governor, you are a county governor. I believe you will hold up to your promises and would not bully a weak female commoner like me." The woman stood up and clenching her teeth, she released the belt around her waist, allowing her clothes to flow down her body.


    "Haha¡­"


    Gongye laughed loudly as he went forward.


    ¡­


    Half a day later, when the skies were dark, Gongye got out of bed. The woman wrapped herself in blankets and scrunched herself in a corner of the bed. Her eyes were brimming with tears.


    "Second Liu." County Governor Gongye instructed. "Bring him in."


    "Yes." A voice came from outside.


    On the bed, the woman was taken aback. Bring him in? Bring who in? She only wrapped the blanket tighter around herself.


    The door creaked before opening.


    A cold-looking man entered with a scholar in his grasps before shoving him in.


    The scholar was terrified. The moment he entered the room, he saw County Governor Gongye and the beautiful woman on the bed.


    "Darling¡ª" The scholar widened his eyes as he looked at the scene in disbelief." You, you¡­"


    "Hubby," The woman said with tears brimming in her eyes. "I''m sorry."


    Following that, she looked at Gongye and pleaded, "Lord County Governor, please uphold your promise and release my husband."


    Gongye smiled as he glanced at Second Liu.


    Second Liu grinned hideously and smacked the scholar in the head. The scholar''s eyes widened and immediately, blood flowed from his nostrils as he slumped to the ground. He died on the spot.


    "Hubby! Hubby!" The woman rushed down the bed with blankets wrapped around her. She crawled towards her husband''s side but he was no longer breathing. "Hubby, wake up! Wake up!"


    "You said it. You said that you would release him!" The woman turned to glare at Gongye.


    Gongye smiled and nodded. "That''s right. I said that I would release him. And indeed, I have released him from the dungeon! As for whether I would kill him after releasing him, I didn''t agree to anything."


    The woman''s body was trembling. "You¡­ you are inhumane. There will be retribution! Retribution will befall you!"


    "Retribution? Hahaha¡­" Gongye laughed out loudly.


    The woman''s eyes turned red as she looked down at her husband. She whispered, "Hubby, I''ll coming to join you." With that said, she charged to a column beside her and slammed her head into it. She collapsed to the ground with blood bursting from her head. She fell to the ground limply as she continued looking at her husband beside her. Finally, she stopped breathing.


    "What true passion. How touching."


    Gongye looked down. "I was planning to have a few more days of fun with this woman but she''s too rebellious. Second Liu, clean this up thoroughly."


    "Yes," Second Liu chuckled and lowered his head respectfully.


    For County Governor Gongye to do such a thing, there was naturally a need to clean up the matter. After capturing a couple, they had no intention of letting them go. Wouldn''t releasing them only be a sully on their reputation?


    "Hmph!"


    Gongye walked out in high spirits. To him, it was just a day''s worth of fun. "Those fiendish demon fellow disciples of my sect kill countless humans. I have only fooled around with a few. I''m already very benevolent!"


    The death of the couple did not cause a stir in Grand Dominance at all. It was only considered a case of disappearance.


    The darkness lurking beneath Grand Dominance County''s bustle had never stopped. The only difference was that Grand Dominance had an additional evil entity known as the Lord County Governor. However, this evil entity was a lot more terrifying than typical wealthy families or aristocrats.


    ******


    Dreamlike Pavilion.


    Vice Minister Wang and Dreamlike Pavilion Lady were whispering in bed.


    "Are the days getting worse?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady leaned into Vice Minister Wang''s embrace.


    "That''s right. The days are getting worse." Vice Minister Wang sighed and said, "Even I was forced to deliver fifty thousand taels of silver before I could satisfy the new county governor. His actions are ruthless. Out of all the businesses in Grand Dominance, only the Hong family, which has Lord Prefecture Overseer as its backer, has not been coerced by the new county governor. Which one of the others hasn''t he fleeced? He truly is outrageous!"


    "What happens if you do not give?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady asked.


    "The moment he came, he punished the Liu family with death. How many people would dare defy him?" Vice Minister Wang said in hushed tones. "The backer he has is rather robust as well. Thankfully, he doesn''t dare to go that far with a large county like East Sea County. In Grand Dominance, I''m considered one of the ones that are better off. I have quite a lot of connections in East Sea County and some connections in the imperial capital. He spared me after I delivered fifty thousand taels. If not, he would definitely have requested a hundred thousand taels from me, considering my status."


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady nodded.


    Vice Minister Wang was one of the most ruthless entities before the Hong family rose in power. The Hong family had relied on Lord Prefecture Overseer to rapidly become Grand Dominance''s first family clan.


    In comparison, Vice Minister Wang was just a merchant by trade. He had trading businesses in East Sea County and even the imperial capital. This was the reason why Dreamlike Pavilion Lady clung tightly onto him.


    "In recent days, all the family clans of reasonable background in Grand Dominance have suffered." Vice Minister Wang continued, "The county governor does not exert pressure on those that are strong enough, such as the Hong family which is backed by Lord Prefecture Overseer and family clans which are backed by top cultivation sects like the Qin family. Instead, he tries to befriend them."


    "Under his rule, I have to be very careful in the coming years." Vice Minister Wang whispered and sighed. "I even have thoughts of hiding in East Sea County for the next few years. Dreamlike, when that happens, would you be willing to follow me?"


    Dreamlike Pavilion Lady continued being embraced by Vice Minister Wang. "Darling, I''ll follow you wherever you go. If you want me to close this Dreamlike Pavilion, I''ll close it."


    Vice Minister Wang laughed as he nodded. Immediately he began thinking.


    The new county governor truly made him feel threatened.


    ¡­


    Indeed, the days that followed after County Governor Gongye''s arrival in Grand Dominance left many family clans cowering in fear. Unlike the compassionate County Governor Wen, County Governor Gongye''s governance was more overbearing!


    "When would such days come to an end?" Every family muttered secretly but did not dare to offend the county governor in public.


    ******


    At night, County Governor Manor''s cultivation chamber.


    A stone door was sealed shut.


    Gongye sat cross-legged alone. There was black aura billowing behind him, transforming into a terrifying fiendcelestial phantom. Terrifying waves effused from his surroundings, ones that were much more powerful than Golden Firmament.


    "Oh?"


    Gongye suddenly frowned and stopped. He flipped his hand and took out an ancient bronze mirror. In it, Nine Mountain Island Lord''s figure appeared.


    "Senior Brother, why are you contacting me so late into the night?" Gongye said with a smile, "Could the reason still be that of the children''s heart blood?"


    "Junior Brother, you sure are smart." Nine Mountain Island Lord said.


    "A few days ago, I saw Disciple-Nephew Golden Firmament''s assault on Qin Manor late into the night." Gongye chuckled and said, "No one expected a flying sword to suddenly fly out of Qin Manor. The Heaven and Earth powers trembled and the flying sword produced an extremely powerful and mystical attack. It scared Golden Firmament so much that he escaped immediately."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded. "Therefore, I''m here to request your help. I know that you have the means of succeeding."


    "It''s difficult." Gongye said, "Unless you are willing to lend me the Fiendcelestial Phalanx for fifty years¡­"


    "Impossible." Nine Mountain Island Lord''s eyes suffused a coldness. "You can forget about the Fiendcelestial Phalanx. Raise another condition."


    Gongye looked into the mirror at Nine Mountain Island Lord and fell silent for a moment before saying, "Senior Brother, that Qin Yun has accomplished great deeds. He also has a top cultivation sect behind him. It''s not easy to deal with him! Let''s do it this way. You are, after all, my senior brother. Let''s compromise. You give me one Cloudfiend Mountain Blood Crystal, and I''ll help you settle the matter."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord hesitated for a moment before smiling. "Alright, it''s an agreement."


    Gongye smiled as well. "If anyone else were to make such a request from me, I would absolutely not have agreed. Senior Brother, I''m only willing to do it because you requested my help and are willing to give me a Cloudfiend Mountain Blood Crystal.


    "Are you confident?" Nine Mountain Island Lord was a little worried. "There should be a powerful sword immortal residing in Qin Manor."


    "Haha, since I''m going to take action, I''m naturally confident," Gongye said confidently.


    "If you are confident, it''s best you kill that Qin Yun as well." Nine Mountain Island Lord''s eyes suffused coldness.


    "Alright, if it''s possible, I''ll kill him as well." Gongye was very amiable at that moment. "Alright. Senior Brother, you just need to await my good news."


    In the bronze mirror, Nine Mountain Island Lord revealed a smile.


    Gongye kept the bronze mirror and his eyes glowed coldly. "Qin Yun? I didn''t plan on doing anything to you. But in order to obtain the Cloudfiend Mountain Blood Crystal, I''m sorry!"

 77 Dispatching the Troops

    Chapter 77: Dispatching the Troops


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The next morning, in the County Governor Manor''s study.


    County Governor Gongye stood in front of an unfinished drawing. He was flicking his brush and dabbing it in ink, drawing in an unbridled manner. Long stretches of mountains gradually appeared on the canvas.


    "Lord." The door opened and a subordinate entered silently. He whispered, "Qin Liehu is already in Six Fans Gate."


    "Alright," Gongye replied indifferently.


    A few moments later.


    Another subordinate entered the study and whispered, "Lord, Qin Yun''s elder brother, Qin An, has just left Qin Manor. He will most likely be heading to his restaurant or store."


    Qin An was a businessman so he naturally had many matters to tend to.


    "Alright." Gongye placed his brush down and marveled at the canvas in front of him. It depicted an extended mountain range with black clouds spreading from the ends of the sky. It felt like dark clouds were bearing down on the city in an overwhelming manner.


    "Eldest Liu, Second Liu," Gongye suddenly bellowed.


    "Present." Two men responded reverentially from outside the study.


    Gongye threw a token. "Heed my orders. Head to Six Fans Gate and apprehend Qin Liehu, then lock him in the dungeon. Raise the security at the dungeon and guard it! And from now on, no one is to enter or exit Six Fans Gate without specific orders from me!"


    "Yes!"


    The Liu family''s five brothers were infamous cultivators. However, they yielded to Gongye and had been working for him for a long time. They were Gongye''s trusted henchmen.


    "Fifth Liu, lead a group of personal guards to silently apprehend Qin An. Similarly, lock him in the Six Fans Gate''s dungeon. Remember, be careful when taking action and make sure you leave no evidence," Gongye instructed.


    "Lord, rest assured," Fifth Liu answered immediately from outside the study. He had worked for Gongye Bing for years. He knew that Qin An''s capture was not to be discovered. That was what he meant by ''silently apprehend.¡¯ To genuine cultivators, such an act posed no challenges.


    Gongye walked out of the study where two other Liu family experts, Commander Tie, and several personal guards stood at the entrance.


    "Commander Tie, take my token and a group of guards with you out of the city," Gongye commanded. "Bring three divisions of men and soldiers into the city and encircle Qin Manor! Capture everyone in the Qin family, especially Qin Yun. He is not to be spared."


    After Commander Tie listened from beginning to end, he could not help but ask, "Lord County Governor, we are capturing Qin Liehu and Qin An. Now, we are even capturing Qin Yun? That Qin Yun is a cultivator who previously killed Water God. He has accomplished a great deed."


    "Hmph!"


    Gongye looked him in the eye. "Qin Liehu has been a silver-badge constable for many years. He should have dealt with demons to ensure peace long ago. But despite all his years as a constable, he has not killed many demons. I originally thought that he was incompetent but now, I''ve discovered that he was colluding with demons in secret. He has earned a great amount of wealth as a result, and so turned a blind eye to the demons'' heinous acts. Now, with so much evidence pointing to him, how can the Qin family not be apprehended considering the atrocious crime?"


    "Colluding with demons?" Commander Tie was alarmed. "Such an accusation cannot be so easily decided."


    The accusation was too serious.


    Typically, it would lead to the beheading of the entire family! Those that were relatively benevolent would only behead the main offender while the women in the family would be sent to be maids in the residences of officials, while the men would be forced to do hard labor until their deaths.


    "There is insurmountable evidence. Colluding with demons is a crime punishable by death. However, since this matter involves a cultivator, Qin Yun, and he has done a great deed, I will report it to the imperial government. It will have the final decision on Qin Yun''s life and death. However, what happens now will be in accordance with the laws set forth by the imperial government. Capture his entire family and throw them into the dungeons." Gongye acted in a manner where personal considerations did not interfere with his execution of public duty. "Commander Tie, execute the order without delay."


    Commander Tie nodded obediently. Although he felt that his master had gone overboard on the matter, he was still a subordinate of the county governor.


    ¡­


    The security of the city was Six Fans Gate''s responsibility. Inside its main headquarters, Qin Liehu and two other silver-badge constables were in a room, busying themselves with official matters.


    Boom. The door was flung open.


    "Who is it?" Qin Liehu and another silver-badge constable, Lei Xiong, were somewhat infuriated. They were members of the upper echelons of Six Fans Gate. Three silver-badge constables each had departments they oversaw. The regular constables did not dare barge in while they were doing official businesses.


    The duo who entered after flinging the door open was none other than Eldest Liu and Second Liu. They led five guards. From afar, some constables watched with curiosity.


    "During Qin Liehu''s tenure as silver-badge constable, he has colluded with demons. There is insurmountable evidence supporting the charge. Now, under Lord County Governor''s orders, we shall apprehend and imprison him," Eldest Liu held a token in hand and bellowed. "Take him away!"


    "I did not collude with demons," Qin Liehu glared.


    The guards charged forward and immediately held Qin Liehu down.


    Qin Liehu was very aware that resistance was futile in such a situation. It would only lead to him being killed. Furthermore, it would add another charge to the crimes he was accused of. Then, there was the fact that he was in Six Fans Gate, the headquarters of law enforcement with many experts. In addition, Eldest Liu and Second Liu were extremely powerful cultivators against which he could not resist.


    "Lock him in the dungeon," Eldest Liu instructed coldly.


    Following that, he turned around and raised the token. He shouted loudly, "Under Lord County Governor''s orders, entry and exit of Six Fans Gate are prohibited from this moment forth. Violators will be executed!"


    All the constables in Six Fans Gate, as well as some minor officials, were alarmed.


    "Something serious has happened."


    "Entry and exit to the entire Six Fans Gate are prohibited?"


    The constables did not dare defy the orders.


    After all, the imperial government had bestowed the county governor with absolute powers. With military and political powers concentrated on him, he had the authority to persecute any official under the seventh grade without permission from his superiors. The silver-badge constables that held the highest-ranking in Six Fans Gate were only eighth-grade officials. How could they defy the county governor?


    ¡­


    Inside a shop.


    Qin An was overseeing the business of his store when there was a call from outside.


    "Brother Qin An, Brother Qin An!"


    Qin An heard it. Who was calling him? Out of curiosity, he went out.


    However, he vanished after exiting the door.


    The manager and apprentices in the store noticed that their boss was no longer around. They were puzzled but guessed that he had left with friends.


    ******


    "Rumble!"


    Three thousand soldiers entered the city. With so much manpower diverted into the city, it naturally alerted the large family clans in Grand Dominance City.


    However, the Qin family did not have many people working for them. So they did not know that a huge number of troops had entered the city. Even if they had known, they would likely have ignored it.


    Inside Qin Manor, it was silent. The porter, Uncle Li, was chewing on watermelon seeds leisurely.


    The guards inside the manor were also chatting casually. The servants and maidservants were doing the daily chores while Qin Yun''s mother, Changlan, accompanied her daughter-in-law and grandchildren in a garden in the backyard.


    As for Qin Yun, he was alone in his compound where he was practicing his swordplay. His compound was able to accommodate his cultivation of a flying sword so it was naturally very large.


    "Phew¨CPhew¨C"


    With black sword in hand, he leisurely practiced his swordplay. Sword shadows appeared in a hazy fashion like spring''s misty rains.


    Although he would release his flying sword in true combat, he wielded a sword to train and fight from a young age. His being able to attain the Expertise Nearing Dao that led to him finally grasping Misty Rain Sword Intent was a result of him engaging in melee combat. Therefore, he saw the best results when practicing his swordsmanship holding a sword. This was also a way for him to relax his body and mind.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s ears moved.


    He could hear a faint din. He could not help but stop his swordplay out of curiosity. He left his yard and looked far into the distance. Through the cracks in the vegetation, he could see the mirror-like lake behind Qin Manor. He could also see that a large number of soldiers were being mobilized by the bank.


    "Why are so many soldiers suddenly mobilized?" Qin Yun muttered and found it somewhat puzzling. "The soldiers seldom enter the city, isn''t that so?"


    Only during major events like the Courtesan Belle selection was so much manpower needed. Only then did the soldiers enter the city.


    Qin Yun shook his head slightly before turning to return to his yard. As the soldiers were being mobilized on the mirror-like lake far away, they were still rather far from his place. He thought nothing of it. Of course, he never imagined that the soldiers would do anything to him. He had accomplished great feats in the northern borders and had also killed Water God. Even if the local officials wanted to take action against him, they would be questioned by the imperial government.


    Furthermore, cultivators had an intricate relationship with the imperial government. When things got bad, they could hide deep in the mountains or woods. It was not difficult for them to assassinate officials.


    Therefore, the more powerful the cultivator, the more careful the imperial government had to be before acting against them.


    Of course, it was best if one didn''t clash with the imperial government! If one truly offended the imperial government, even Connate Golden Core realm experts could only flee desperately for their lives. After all, the imperial government ruled the entire world.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Just as Qin Yun entered the yard to continue his training, he heard minute footsteps turning denser. "That''s not right. Why are these soldiers approaching my house?"


    He could ignore it if the soldiers were on the far bank of the lake.


    However, these new footsteps he heard were coming from the streets outside Qin Manor. Clearly, a large number of troops were heading for his house.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun tapped his feet.


    He flew up hundred-plus feet and landed in the crown of a large tree. Standing there, he overlooked his surroundings.


    The sight that greeted Qin Yun changed his expression.

 78 Red-eyed

    Chapter 78: Red-eyed


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As Qin Yun observed his surroundings from the tree, he could clearly see that all the roads along the lake''s periphery were filled with soldiers. The distant streets around Qin Manor were also surrounded! In fact, it was a huge encirclement that completely surrounded Qin Manor. The radius was so large that if he had not stood at such a high vantage point, he would not have been able to see the troops in their entirety. Furthermore, after the massive encirclement was formed, a large number of troops began to approach Qin Manor. It gave Qin Yun a fright.


    "What? Are they surrounding Qin Manor? Why are they doing this?" Qin Yun found the realization coming down upon him as a bolt from the blue. His face turned pale.


    "Oh?" On the streets outside Qin Manor, Commander Tie was leading the personal guards and soldiers when he saw the bluish-gray robed Qin Yun leaping onto a tree''s crown.


    "Enter!"


    Commander Tie immediately waved his hand and gave his command. His voice resounded out to a mile of the surrounding area. "Silver-badge constable Qin Liehu colluded with demons, turning a blind eye to the atrocities they committed. Everyone from the Qin family is to be captured, thrown into the dungeons, and made to await their fates! Any defiance will be met with death!"


    The soldiers that surrounded Qin Manor immediately leaped across the walls. The guards inside Qin Manor turned pale from fright. They would have tried to put up a fight if the intruders were bandits or criminals. However, the intruders were soldiers from the imperial government! How could they dare resist? All of them stood obediently by the side and placed their Demon Annihilation Crossbows on the ground.


    Bam!


    Qin Manor''s large door was broken open. Uncle Li was even more anxious as he said, "You can''t enter."


    "Scram!" A personal guard that led the charge kicked Uncle Li to the side. Uncle Li clutched his chest and could not get up. The surrounding guards, servants, and maidservants were dumbfounded. Collude with demons? How could they continue serving the Qin family when they were accused of such a grave crime? They were only lowly subordinates.


    Commander Tie led the personal guards and many soldiers as they swarmed into Qin Manor. Soldiers also constantly streamed in from other directions.


    ¡­


    "Silver-badge constable Qin Liehu colluded with demons, turning a blind eye to the atrocities they committed. Everyone from the Qin family is to be captured, thrown into the dungeons, and made to await their fates! Any defiance will be met with death!"


    The voice spread very far.


    There were many mansions of wealthy clans situated in the vicinity of the lake. There were also restaurants, tea shops, and even brothels along the lake''s banks.


    "Heavens, Lord Qin Liehu colluded with demons? The Qin family is to be captured and thrown into the dungeons?" A thin old man''s hands went limp as he dropped a teacup to the table, causing the tea to splash across the table. However, he immediately stood up and went to the tea shop''s railings to look into the distance.


    Another man appeared beside him and immediately said, "This county governor is truly aggressive. Your family, my family, and many other wealthy families have been coerced into giving silver. Now, it even wants to go after the Qin family? The Qin family has a cultivator! I heard that his strength is equivalent to Great Demon White Tiger''s!"


    "That''s why so many troops are being sent!" The thin man said hurriedly. "If they let the cultivator escape, he would hide in the darkness and cause trouble for Lord County Governor. Therefore, there are so many soldiers surrounding the area. I even saw Commander Tie and a platoon of personal guards. That¡¯s a lot of experts. Clearly, they are bent on capturing Second Young Master Qin."


    "Let''s wait and see."


    The man beside him whispered, "To be honest, I hope that Second Young Master Qin will be able to escape! Let that county governor suffer a little."


    ¡­


    "They are here to apprehend the Qin family?"


    Many family clans that neighbored the manor were alarmed. Many passers-by watched from afar.


    When the troops were mobilized, many large family clans in Grand Dominance City may have been concerned but they did not know the goal of the mobilization! Now, they knew¡ªit was to deal with the Qin family!


    "Quickly report it to Master."


    "Lord County Governor is going after the Qin family."


    "Quick."


    News spread rapidly, reaching large family clans like the Hong and Wang family. The truly large family clans in Grand Dominance City paid close attention to every move taken by the government. Now, with the county governor dealing with the Qin family, it was absolutely a huge deal to Grand Dominance County.


    "Dealing with the Qin family?" Hong Lingtong held a wooden staff and walked in the direction of Qin Manor. "According to what I have sensed, Lord County Governor is an extremely horrifying existence. He has the imperial government backing him, and so is not to be made an enemy. That Qin Yun is similarly a terrifying existence who is not to be fought. They are the only two people in all of Grand Dominance County that I do not dare offend. Now, they are coming to blows? Perhaps Lord County Governor still isn''t aware of Qin Yun''s true strength."


    ******


    Qin Yun leaped down from the tree''s crown as his body gently landed. He tapped his feet on the roof of a building and rushed to the back garden.


    At that moment, Commander Tie''s voice was simultaneously heard by Changlan and others. "Silver-badge constable Qin Liehu colluded with demons¡­"


    Changlan and her daughter-in-law were dumbfounded.


    "Impossible!" The color in Changlan''s face drained. Her daughter-in-law hugged her son and daughter and could not help but tremble. Although she tried to stop it, she could not repress the terror that was seizing her. She had a feeling that she about to be swamped by a disaster. She even found it difficult to breathe.


    Sou!


    A figure flashed in from afar and entered the garden.


    Changlan and her daughter-in-law noticed that Qin Yun had arrived. Instantly, they felt like they had seen their pillar of support.


    "Yun''er," Changlan said immediately. "What happened to your father?"


    "Mother, Sister-in-law. Don''t worry." Qin Yun gritted his teeth. "Our Qin family has a vendetta against demons, so how is it possible for us to collude with them? However, since the county governor sent troops here, they are probably intending to apprehend us. Hmph, what wishful thinking."


    Qin Yun was incensed at that moment.


    "Rest assured. Regardless of what happens, I''ll definitely lead you away from here safely," Qin Yun promised.


    As he looked at his nervous mother and his sister-in-law that was hugging her two children with a pale face, pangs of fury burned in Qin Yun''s heart!


    Boom!


    As armors and weapons clamored in a cacophonous din, a large number of soldiers flooded in like water to the back garden.


    "All of you, scram!" Qin Yun turned his head and suddenly waved his hand. Boom! Quintessential Essence rumbled as he lifted up the soldier that led the charge. Qin Yun flung the solder, causing many to fly out of the back garden amid angry screams.


    Boom!


    Following that, the garden''s walls exploded. With an austere-looking Commander Tie in the lead, there were cultivators everywhere. There was also a large platoon of personal guards. Massive numbers of soldiers followed behind but not one would dare lead the charge. They knew that the cultivator inside was too terrifying.


    "Commander Tie, where is Gongye Bing?" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with bloodlust as he said coldly.


    "Young Master Qin," Commander Tie said. "During your father''s tenure as silver-badge constable, he colluded with demons, turning a blind eye to the atrocities committed by demons. There is much evidence that points towards your father."


    Qin Yun''s mother, Changlan''s eyes turned red as she yelled from the side, "Impossible! Why is Liehu missing an arm? How did my daughter die? It''s all because of demons. It was the result of demons! Our Qin family would absolutely never collude with demons."


    "There is evidence pointing to it."


    Commander Tie frowned slightly as he continued. "I know Young Master Qin has done great service, and Lord County Governor has also said that we would capture and judge all of you according to the rules set forth by the imperial government. As to how he plans to deal with you, he will report it to the imperial government and let them decide."


    Qin Yun sneered. "The moment we enter the dungeons, our fates are determined by the county governor''s whims. Do you honestly believe what he says?"


    Commander Tie said in a deep voice, "Everything is done in accordance with the imperial government''s laws. Now, Young Master Qin, please yield or we will turn rough."


    "Turn rough?" Qin Yun''s expression sunk. "I know that all of you are sent by Gongye Bing and are only following orders. I''m unwilling to kill either. Quickly make way and let us leave. If not, don''t blame me for being heartless to protect my family."


    "Release the arrows!" A voice resounded in Commander Tie''s ears. "Commander Tie, didn''t I say that you could release the arrows?"


    Commander Tie was alarmed.


    He immediately replied with a voice transmission, "Lord County Governor, Qin Yun is extremely strong. The Star Chasing Crossbows and other such means aren''t guaranteed. If we truly begin a battle, the Qin family members might die and many soldiers will die too."


    "If he has the guts to kill, then by all means let him do it. Killing soldiers? The more he kills, the graver the charges. Even Connate Golden Core realm experts would not dare to kill soldiers in broad daylight, for it would be in defiance of the government," Gongye responded with a voice transmission.


    Commander Tie was alarmed.


    The county governor was truly relentless.


    If Qin Yun fell into a red-eyed frenzy and wantonly killed soldiers, the imperial government would definitely capture him at all costs. Even the sect backing him could not support him in such a situation.


    "Release the arrows!" Commander Tie gritted his teeth and retreated suddenly as he swung his hand down.


    The personal guards had received orders from the county governor before arriving. Immediately, they raised their Star Chasing Crossbows. Some cultivators held Dao talismans and began casting Dharma spells. At that moment, more than three hundred Star Chasing Crossbows were aimed at Qin Yun. Simultaneously, many Dharma spells were being prepared. A majority of the Star Chasing Crossbows in Grand Dominance''s armory had been taken out.


    While being aimed, with many triggers on the verge of being pulled, the Star Chasing Crossbow arrows'' runes were triggered. They hurled at Qin Yun and company in the form of meteor-like flames that tore through the void.


    Qin Yun stood in front of his mother, sister-in-law, nephew, and niece. His eyes turned red instantly.

 79 Entire City Stirred

    Chapter 79: Entire City Stirred


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s expression was ferocious. He used his psyche to begin activating the Heaven and Earth powers.


    "Boom!"


    Every inch of space in the back garden was trembling. Countless rocks and gravel began floating up in the sky as air itself began to distort. The meteor-like blazing trails of fire that were shot by the Star Chasing Crossbows seemed to encounter powerful resistance in mid-flight. They were rapidly decelerating at a discernable rate as the flames lingering around the arrow became increasingly clear. After flying for about one or two hundred feet, they successively stopped in midair.


    "Go."


    "Kill!"


    The cultivators among the personal guards were using their Dao talismans but although the Dao talismans were triggered and they could use the Heaven and Earth powers for themselves, the Dao talismans could only barely absorb a little bit of the Heaven and Earth powers unlike in the past! In the past, they could have cast a bolt of lightning but all that was formed were some streaks of sparks. In the past, a water python could be produced but all they could produce now were tiny water snakes¡­ The strength of the Dharmic powers rapidly decreased to less than ten percent.


    Besides, these cultivators that cast the Dharmic spells were not even at the Connate realm. As a result, their Dharmic Dao was not strong. Having less than ten percent of the power accumulated, the spells flew about twenty to thirty feet before dissipating under such coagulated Heaven and Earth powers.


    The surrounding world quaked, causing all the arrows to stop in midair. The Dharmic spells only extended a few dozen feet out.


    There was a frenzied rage in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Heaven Man Unity!


    It could control the Heaven and Earth powers. If he was dealing with cultivators at the Connate realm, just the repression of the Heaven and Earth powers was naturally lacking in strength. Only by casting Dharma spells through the control of the Heaven and Earth powers was it threatening enough! However, against Postnatal cultivators or even mortals, the Heaven and Earth powers were extremely terrifying. It permeated every inch of the air. Every inch of the domain that the arrows penetrated, they would experience greater obstruction. No matter how powerful the Star Chasing Crossbows were, they would lose all their strength after slightly more than a hundred feet, unable to progress another inch.


    Dharmic Dao also needed to control the Heaven and Earth powers. If Connate realm cultivators had used Quintessential Essence to activate the Dao talismans, they would naturally be able to obtain large amounts of Heaven and Earth powers.


    However, for Postnatal realm cultivators, their Dharmic Dao was very weak. Their absorption of Heaven and Earth powers were very weak. Qin Yun''s Heaven Man Unity was able to repress more than ninety percent of it! It caused the Dharmic Dao to be severely weakened.


    There was a saying: In front of Heaven Man Unity, the numbers of mortals lost its meaning. This was also the reason why cultivators were terrifying. Under normal circumstances, only very few Connate False Core realm cultivators could grasp Heaven Man Unity. Many mortals would not see scenes of Heaven Man Unity their entire lives.


    "It''s a heavenly man! A heavenly man!"


    The personal guards and soldiers saw how their Dharma spells dissipated after flying out a few dozen feet and how all the arrows stopped in midair. The surrounding air was distorted and trembling. All of them found their hearts trembling in fear.


    "Phew!"


    Qin Yun flew up with his mother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew.


    By coercing the Heaven and Earth powers, one could naturally fly. However, such flight would be too slow! There was a limit to the Heaven and Earth powers after all. Even the Star Chasing Crossbows were able to shoot out more than a hundred feet despite its obstruction. Secondly, just sensing the Heaven and Earth powers was one thing, but to forcefully control the Heaven and Earth powers was extremely demanding on the soul and psyche. It could not be maintained for long periods of time.


    "He flew up!"


    "A god!"


    "A god!"


    Many soldiers looked up in shock.


    Changlan, his sister-in-law, nephew, and niece were also watching their surroundings in alarm.


    "We are flying. We are flying?" They were feeling anxious but they could sense an invisible energy wrapping around them.


    "Don''t worry. Leave everything to me." Qin Yun''s voice sounded in their ears.


    Qin Yun brought his family and flew to a height of about two to three hundred feet off the ground.


    In midair, he surveyed his surroundings.


    "Gongye Bing!!!"


    Qin Yun spoke.


    Qin Yun had transmitted his voice by modulating the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers. The radius he could control was in a radius five kilometers away from him! That meant that the Heaven and Earth powers in an area spanning ten kilometers across was being used. They were all used to create rumbling sounds as though the entire world was speaking.


    "Gongye Bing!" "Gongye Bing!" "Gongye Bing!" "Gongye Bing!" "Gongye Bing!" "Gongye Bing!" ¡­


    The voice echoed everywhere.


    "What happened?"


    "What sound is that?" The entire Grand Dominance City was stirred.


    How big was a county city?


    Qin Yun''s voice resounded simultaneously through the Heaven and Earth powers in a ten-kilometer range. His voice transmitted, allowing it to be heard from everywhere in Grand Dominance City. Furthermore, it appeared as if the entire heaven and earth were speaking.


    "You framed my father, Qin Liehu, for colluding with demons and make no distinction between right and wrong. You released arrows to destroy my Qin family. Do you know that my younger sister was killed by demons and that my father''s arm was severed because of demons? My Qin family has a blood feud with demons, so how can we collude with demons? I, Qin Yun, had even sworn to kill Water God! Now, I had jointly killed Water God with a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. As a new county governor, you actually press false charges on me and want to destroy my Qin family? What injustice is this?"


    "If you really want to forcefully take action and destroy my Qin family, let''s see if you possess the strength needed to do so!"


    The world rumbled as his voice spread throughout the city.


    Countless citizens of the city were astounded.


    "What? Lord County Governor wants to destroy the Qin family?"


    "Is that Second Young Master Qin speaking? Why does it feel like the entire world is speaking!?"


    "A god, a god!"


    "So the ones that killed Water God is Second Young Master Qin and a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. They are living bodhisattvas! Living bodhisattvas! Second Young Master Qin is a living bodhisattva!"


    "So it was Second Young Master Qin¡­"


    All of Grand Dominance City''s citizens broke out into a flurry of discussion. The cultivators that had killed Water God had long been placed on a divine pedestal in Grand Dominance. Many families even created a plaque in their homes for them to honor the cultivators that had killed Water God and saved millions of citizens. Now, the commoners knew¡­ that the ones that killed Water God were Qin Yun and a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple.


    "This voice?" In Dreamlike Pavilion Lady, Vice Minister Wang and Dreamlike Pavilion Lady looked up. The world was resounding with the voice: "Gongye Bing¡­ You framed my father, Qin Liehu¡­ jointly killed Water God¡­ What injustice is this? ¡­destroy my Qin family, let''s see if you possess the strength needed to do so!"


    The resounding voice in the world even left Vice Minister Wang quivering. Beside him, Dreamlike Pavilion Lady was also shaking in alarm.


    "That is Second Young Master Qin?" Dreamlike Pavilion Lady could not help but ask, "Why does his voice seem to be resounding from every corner of the world. It''s like a god."


    "What do you know!? This is what''s called Heaven Man Unity! Heaven Man Unity! It''s a state that even many Connate realm cultivators are unable to reach." Vice Minister Wang eyes lit up. "Nice, I previously thought that this new county governor was rather smart to befriend the Hong and Qin family. Now, he plans on destroying the Qin family? He''s trying to pierce through the sky! Qin Yun''s strength is much more terrifying than he can imagine. Soldiers are nothing before a cultivator at the Heaven Man Unity state!"


    ¡­


    "Nice! What a great Second Young Master Qin! Let that Gongye Bing know what retribution is! Such a vicious person has retribution befalling him!" Inside another family residence, an elder gave his kudos when he heard the voice.


    "Father, Second Young Master Qin has helped us vent our anger." A middle-aged man beside him said agitatedly.


    "Second Young Master Qin was the one who killed Water God. He has great merit on him." The elder said, "Furthermore, how can Gongye Bing bully a figure that''s almost godlike?"


    At present, which one of the weaker family clans in Grand Dominance City was not furious? However, they had no choice for the county governor deliberately chose to bully those without any background.


    ¡­


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    Chen Shuang pushed open the door and listened to the reverberating voice in the world. "¡­I, Qin Yun, had even sworn to kill Water God¡­ What injustice is this?¡­"


    "Brother Yun." Chen Shuang looked up. She was astounded by the voice from the heaven and earth but was also worried about him.


    ******


    Gongye, who had been secretly observing the situation''s development outside Qin Manor with a few subordinates, heard Qin Yun''s voice transmitted through the Heaven and Earth powers. His expression changed.


    "Heaven Man Unity? When did he attain the state of Heaven Man Unity? Very few people in the Connate False Core realm can even attain Heaven Man Unity!" Gongye was momentarily stunned when he heard the heaven and earth voice. This was something he never expected in the beginning.

 80 Young Master Qins Benevolence

    Chapter 80: Young Master Qin''s Benevolence


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Heaven Man Unity? Doesn''t that mean he can use sword kinesis through Heaven Man Unity?" Gongye was alarmed. "Could it be that the person who clashed with Disciple-Nephew Golden Firmament using a flying sword was Qin Yun?"


    He recalled seeing a flying sword fly out of Qin Manor, causing his disciple-nephew to eventually flee.


    "Im¡­Impossible!"


    "That flying sword was able to produce strength at the Connate True Core realm. It was even strong enough to force my disciple-nephew to escape. Qin Yun isn''t even at the Connate realm. To be able to do that, he¡¯d need more than just Heaven Man Unity. Such a thing is only possible if he has grasped sword intent! But if he has grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm¡­ In the entire world, only one such person is produced every few centuries. How can it be this much of a coincidence, that a figure that appears once in centuries happens to be in a small place like Grand Dominance? And that I happen to encounter him?"


    "Furthermore," Gongye''s mind raced. "If he is truly such a figure, with the way the Daoist sacred lands and top sects work, they will definitely refuse to leave him out in the wild. While he is weak, they will want to keep him in the sect to protect him well. Only when he reaches the Connate realm would they let him leave the mountain to gain experience."


    However, he did not know.


    Fate made fools of people. He had encountered such a legendary sword immortal genius.


    How could one not defile his hands by touching pitch?


    "What''s most troubling is his declaration that I framed them. He claimed responsibility for killing Water God and let it be known throughout Grand Dominance City. Sure, I can ignore the commoners by spreading rumors secretly. I can even claim that Qin Yun is bragging deliberately and that he did not kill Water God. Perhaps, I can even say that he was colluding with Water God, but the one that killed Water God is a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple and that Qin Yun took the credit by blowing his own trumpet¡­ By spreading a multitude of rumors, the commoners would not be able to discern falsehoods from reality." Gongye looked at the hovering Qin Yun. "But if I made it known to everyone, it would definitely reach the imperial government and cause them to investigate the matter."


    "With that, I will have to act more in accordance with the rules and make no mistakes."


    Gongye understood as well.


    At this point, he could no longer retreat!


    All of this took time to ponder over, but just as these numerous thoughts flashed across Gongye''s mind, Qin Yun finished his speech.


    Gongye immediately transmitted his voice, "Commander Tie! All six of you are to immediately take action!"


    Commander Tie was a Connate False Core realm cultivator, after all. The other five also had the most powerful weapons stashed in County Governor Manor. This could be considered the final stage of an all-out assault.


    ¡­


    In Qin Manor''s back garden.


    After Qin Yun finished his speech, he transmitted his voice to his family members. "I''ll be taking you away now."


    "Alright." Changlan and his sister-in-law were agitated as well. They felt that, with the speech having been delivered to such a wide area, there was no way the county governor could hide the truth. The Qin family''s wrongful treatment would be put to a stop and their reputations would remain unsullied.


    But below them...


    Commander Tie and the five personal guards behind him exchanged looks. They did not dare to hesitate any longer.


    "Kill!" Commander Tie suddenly waved his hand. A palm-sized black ball that was filled with spikes flew out from his hand. It transformed into a black shadow and quickly reached the overhead Qin Yun. Behind it was a chain that led to Commander Tie''s hand. This was Commander Tie''s only Dharma treasure¡ªninth-grade Three-treasured Meteor Hammer. Commander Tie gave the Dharma treasure its name. This Dharma treasure was the thing he treasured the most.


    And beside him were five cultivators from the personal guard. They each produced a unique fire tube. It was the most terrifying weapon in Grand Dominance County¡ªFire Peacock.


    Fire Peacock was somewhat weak against Connate realm demons with formidable physiques. However, it still posed a threat against Connate realm humans, for they had weaker bodies.


    "Oh? Fire Peacock?" Above them, Qin Yun''s eyes flashed upon seeing the situation. In the battlefields in the northern border, he had naturally seen the imperial government use this terrifying weapon.


    In his sleeves, the Intrinsic Flying Sword was already being controlled with sword kinesis. In such times of danger, he was naturally ready to attack at any time.


    "Out."


    A thought.


    Sou!


    Heaven Man Unity''s sword kinesis caused the sword beam to flash. It dodged the incoming Three-treasured Meteor Hammer and penetrated straight through three Fire Peacocks. Another two Fire Peacocks that were triggered by Quintessential Essence.


    Boom! Boom!


    What appeared to be columns of flame expanded out fully and disassembled.


    The final image looked like a peacock showcasing its fine tail!


    A sharp object pierced straight at Qin Yun amid flames. In terms of might and speed, they were much stronger than the Star Chasing Crossbows.


    "Phew." Qin Yun took the initiative to face them head-on. He instantly drew his black sword and, with hazy sword beams that appeared erratically, he repelled the incoming Three-treasured Meteor Hammer first before turning and blocking all the projectiles contained within the Fire Peacocks!


    "Yes, back when I was on the battlefield, I found them very terrifying. But in fact, with the Heaven and Earth powers obstructing them, the Fire Peacocks have only thirty percent of their strength by the time they reach me. They can easily be parried," Qin Yun thought to himself.


    As he brandished his black sword, his Intrinsic Flying Sword charged straight at Commander Tie.


    "What!?" Commander Tie was both astounded and furious that Qin Yun had made such quick work out of his Three-treasured Meteor Hammer. As he controlled his Dharma treasure, he drew the battle saber by his waist. After joining the imperial government, he had also learned the imperial government''s godfiend body-tempering techniques. Although he was a rookie, his melee combat strength was not to be taken lightly.


    However, Commander Tie''s strength was barely at White Tiger''s level. His important Three-treasured Meteor Hammer was even weaker than White Tiger at melee combat when cast so far out.


    "Bam!"


    The sword beam flashed, cleaving straight through Commander Tie''s battle saber. Although it was considered a divine weapon, it was not at the level of a Dharma treasure!


    As for Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, it was able to produce strength at the level of a fifth-grade Dharma treasure. How could his ordinary divine weapon be able to defend against it?


    "What a powerful Dharma treasure, this flying sword! I''m dead!" Commander Tie''s heart chilled. The Three-treasured Meteor Hammer could not save him in time. His battle saber was broken and the Intrinsic Flying Sword was too fast. He was finished. He was definitely going to die.


    At that moment, Commander Tie even felt disgruntled towards County Governor Gongye.


    You tried to dispose of Qin Yun without certainty of success? You only lead us subordinates to our deaths!


    "Chi. Chi." Commander Tie felt his legs go numb as he could not help but slump to the ground. He looked down and saw that his legs had two gaping wounds. Blood flowed incessantly as he could not even stand.


    "Great! Young Master Qin Yun is benevolent. What benevolence." Commander Tie was feeling extremely grateful at that moment, so much to the point of having tears stream down his cheeks. Qin Yun could clearly kill him with the sword but had only injured his legs! His legs were not even cleaved off. Such injuries could be recuperated in about a month.


    "Ah!"


    The five cultivators that had used the Fire Peacocks all collapsed to the ground at the same time. They held their thighs. All of them had wounds sliced across their thighs and could not stand up.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The sword beams circled the personal guards. Most of the cultivators were struck as they collapsed to the ground.


    "Boom!" Flying gravel and dust flew up into the sky! The personal guards and soldiers could not even open their eyes. Countless gravel flew wantonly as they were forced to use their clothes to protect their heads.


    Qin Yun controlled the dust and sand, causing the area to turn to pitch darkness. With a beckon of his hand, his Intrinsic Flying Sword rapidly flew back into his sleeve and continued sticking close to his arm. He continued maintaining sword kinesis in case he needed to face another enemy.


    "Mother, Sister-in-law. Let''s leave quickly," Qin Yun said.


    With that, the Heaven and Earth powers enveloped his family and they silently and rapidly left Qin Manor in pitch darkness.


    Qin Yun traveled very fast, even with his family in tow. Soon, they were about a kilometer away from Qin Manor.


    "Brother Qin Yun, I''m Hong Lingtong. Have mercy." A youth holding a wooden staff walked over. The person that appeared in front of him was none other than the ninth son of the Hong family, Hong Lingtong.


    "Hong Lingtong?" Qin Yun looked at him. When the young man was a thousand feet from him, Qin Yun was able to confirm his identity through his Intrinsic Flying Sword. "Brother Hong, I''m now being pursued by the government. Why are you here?"


    "Brother Qin Yun, I obviously know the Qin family is being maligned. I believe Brother Qin was caught unprepared and does not have a suitable place to hide at the moment? If you can trust me, follow me. My Hong family is able to hide a few people easily in Grand Dominance County," Hong Lingtong said with a smile.


    Qin Yun looked at him and nodded. "Alright. As you are helping me in this time of need, I, Qin Yun, will definitely remember Brother Hong''s help."


    "Haha¡­"


    Hong Lingtong smiled. "Please follow me."


    ¡­


    Back at Qin Manor.


    As the flying gravel gradually settled, the personal guards and soldiers began rubbing their eyes and looking at their surroundings.


    "Where is he?"


    "Second Young Master Qin is no longer around. Did he escape?"


    "Indeed, how could we hope to catch such a godly immortal?" The soldiers spoke in whispers. After seeing the terrifying might of Heaven Man Unity demonstrated, the ordinary soldiers no longer had any thoughts of matching Qin Yun.


    Even the army would feel helpless against the natural powers of the Heaven and Earth.


    Phew.


    Gongye led his subordinates to charge inside and survey the area. Commander Tie and the other cultivators were all sitting on the ground, clasping their thighs. They were beginning to bandage their wounds with cloths. Blood had dyed the cloths red.


    "A bunch of good-for-nothings," Gongye muttered inwardly. Although he did not say it out loud, his expression was ashen.


    "Lord County Governor," Commander Tie immediately said, "All of us have injuries in our legs. Now, we can''t even stand up, much less pursue that Young Master Qin Yun."


    "What Young Master Qin Yun? He resisted arrest and that''s naturally a severe crime," Gongye snorted coldly.


    The surrounding people fell silent.


    The personal guards, including Commander Tie, were silently grumbling. Some of the cultivators were even communicating through voice transmissions among themselves.


    "He tried to deal with Qin Yun without absolute confidence. Thankfully, Young Master Qin Yun is benevolent, or we would be dead."


    "All he did was hide behind us and let us lead the charge."


    "If Young Master Qin Yun was more bloodthirsty, it wouldn''t be a surprise if more than half the three thousand soldiers and personal guards ended up dead. However, not a single soldier has died. Young Master Qin Yun is benevolent. He knew we were only acting under orders."


    "It''s good that he injured our legs. It gives an excuse to not pursue Young Master Qin Yun. Let the county governor think of a solution himself."


    They had just smelled death, so they were naturally displeased with the county governor.


    The county governor stood in the Qin family''s back garden with an ashen expression. From the way the surrounding soldiers looked at him and the expressions of the personal guards, Gongye was able to guess what was on their minds.


    "If not for me needing to hide the strength I¡¯ve gained from fiendish demon lineage, I would have personally destroyed you." Gongye secretly clenched his teeth. Unfortunately, the moment he exposed his fiendish demon means, he would immediately become the enemy of the public. The imperial government and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance would pursue him! Despite his fearsome strength, all he could do was hide.

 81 Settling Down

    Chapter 81: Settling Down


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Six Fans Gate Dungeon.


    Qin Liehu and Qin An were imprisoned in two neighboring cells. Outside, there were Eldest Liu, Second Liu, Fifth Liu and other personal guards watching them. As for the Six Fans Gate constables in charge of manning the dungeon, they were waiting far away. They were discussing in whispers. "What happened? Why is Lord Qin apprehended? Why is Lord Qin''s eldest son, Qin An, also captured?"


    "Lord Qin''s second son is an extremely powerful cultivator. Why are they capturing his father and brother just like that? Aren''t they afraid of trouble?"


    "Who knows? Entry and exit to Six Fans Gate are now banned."


    The constables discussed in hushed tones. Such discussions happened in various areas in Six Fans Gate. Everyone felt that something serious had happened!


    "Father, they said that you colluded with demons?" Qin An grabbed a wooden post and looked at Qin Liehu in the neighboring cell.


    Qin An''s legs were only shackled. It was more lenient compared to Qin Liehu''s. He was shackled by large chains that weighed hundreds of kilograms. The thick chains were shackled to his ankles. This was because Qin Liehu was already at the ninth stage of Qi Refinement. In addition, he had cultivated in body-tempering mystic arts. He was strong, allowing him to match ordinary cultivators. He was even the match of typical lesser demons. Therefore, his strength required meticulous care when imprisoning him.


    "They claimed that I colluded with demons for no good reason." Qin Liehu looked worried as he shook his head. "Furthermore, entry and exit to Six Fans Gate have been banned. Clearly, the county governor is not worried about the two of us but your brother."


    "Despite knowing that your brother has extraordinary strength and that I have never colluded with demons, he still took action¡­" Qin Liehu shook his head. "There are probably huge implications behind this matter."


    "Huge implications?" Qin An was puzzled.


    Qin Liehu whispered, "An''er. Although this new county governor acts aggressively, from what I know, his governance in other areas is pretty good. He isn''t a dumb person. Just like before¡­ He might have stifled many family clans in Grand Dominance County but all of them lacked backing or strength. Considering the times, one can ignore the bullying. He had previously befriended our Qin family but now, he has suddenly lost all decorum with us. From the looks of it, it''s not simply because of money."


    "Why is there a sudden loss of decorum?" asked Qin An.


    "In the imperial government, it is common to see welcoming appearances on the surface who would stab you in the dark. There is no lack of people who would lose decorum instantly." Qin Liehu whispered, "But I''m only an eighth-grade official while your brother is a cultivator and not part of the imperial government¡­ Then, it has to be due to some special reason that made the new county governor want to deal with your second brother."


    "He''s dealing with Brother and not us?" asked Qin An.


    "Deal with us?" Qin Liehu shook his head. "The county governor can execute anyone below the seventh-grade without permission. I''m only a lowly eighth-grade official. He could have executed me directly. You and I are not worth his attention."


    Qin Liehu quickly made a judgment.


    The county governor was targeting his son and not because of money.


    "What reason would make the county governor do so? Or should it be said¡­ who made him do so?" Qin Liehu thought to himself, "Could it be trouble that was implicated from Miss Yi Xiao? Or is the Motai family exerting its force in the background?"


    "Sigh. That Yi Xiao is a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple and a member of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family. She''s a fairy-like existence so how can there be few courters?" Qin Liehu thought to himself. "The Motai family had previously threatened us. They are also a large clan from East Sea County. The Motai family''s patriarch is also an Earth Magus."


    Qin Liehu guessed at the reasons for the calamity that had befallen them.


    Qin An remained silent before saying, "Father, would my wife and children be fine?"


    Qin Liehu frowned and said in a low-spirited voice, "Colluding with demons is a grave accusation. It will implicate the family members. The county governor had accused me of this crime so as to implicate your brother. Similarly, your mother, your wife, and children¡­"


    "No. No¡­" Qin An''s eyes brimmed with tears.


    Despite being imprisoned, they were worried about their family outside.


    As for the Liu siblings and company, they were watching the imprisoned Qin Liehu and Qin An in the dungeon.


    "That Qin An is crying. Haha, he''s crying¡­"


    "Really interesting."


    "In a while, your family will be reunited!" Eldest Liu shouted.


    Qin Liehu and Qin An looked over.


    "Oh. I made a mistake. It''s possible that they had resisted arrest and were immediately executed. Then, you can reunite underground." Eldest Liu quipped deliberately. He even guffawed loudly after finishing his piece.


    "Dream on. My brother is not someone that can be dealt with by you." Qin An yelled.


    "Haha, your brother? He can''t even fend for himself!" Second Liu sneered.


    Suddenly¡ª


    From afar, the Heaven and Earth delivered a rumbling sound.


    "Gongye Bing¡­ You framed my father, Qin Liehu¡­ killed Water God¡­ What injustice is this? ¡­"


    Although Qin Manor was more than five kilometers away from Six Fans Gate, with the Heaven and Earth powers broadcasting the voice simultaneously in an area that spanned ten kilometers, it reached the entire county city. It also reached the Six Fans Gate''s dungeon.


    "This sound!" The Liu siblings and company were alarmed. The sounds they heard seemed like the Heaven and Earth were resonating. It held them in awe and veneration.


    "It should be very far but why is the voice so terrifying?" Second Liu whispered.


    "I don''t know." Eldest Liu shook his head. Without seeing with their own eyes, they would never have imagined that it was produced through Heaven Man Unity.


    Qin Liehu and Qin An looked delighted.


    From the Heaven and Earth voice, they could sense Qin Yun''s powerful strength. The speech showed clear confidence. He was not afraid of the county governor''s men.


    "Brother! Brother, you have to ensure their safety." Qin An anticipated a good outcome.


    "Yun''er." Qin Liehu also looked forward to it.


    After about ten minutes, the entrance to the dungeon suddenly slammed open.


    County Governor Gongye led men and rushed in.


    "Lord." The Liu siblings and the personal guards stood up one after another. They greeted him respectfully. The other constables in the vicinity looked austere.


    The county governor was an existence that wielded absolute power in a county.


    Gongye walked in with an ashen expression.


    "Lord County Governor, where are my wife and children?" Qin An shouted. He fretted over them.


    "Don''t worry. From the county governor''s expression, you can tell that they were not captured." Qin Liehu scoffed.


    "Bring Qin Liehu away!" Gongye ordered coldly. "Bring him back to County Governor Manor!"


    "Yes."


    Eldest Liu immediately opened the cell.


    Qin Liehu was relieved when he saw Gongye''s reaction. Gongye had not retorted which meant that his family members had not been captured. They had escaped! Qin Liehu felt a weight off his mind.


    "County Governor Gongye, the heavens are watching. You have to do things according to your conscious." Qin Liehu sneered and said, "My son had jointly killed Water God with a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. Such a great act is recorded in the imperial government. It''s not something you can easily write off."


    "The one that colluded with demons is you, not your son. He is only being implicated by you. However, he dared resist arrest. That is an additional crime." Gongye said coldly.


    Despite saying that, Gongye thought to himself, "I never planned on dealing with Qin Yun. I knew it would be troublesome! But the Cloudfiend Mountain Blood Crystal¡­ Over all my years of cultivation, I have only obtained one Cloudfiend Mountain Blood Crystal. If I can get a second one, it would be worth it no matter the cost. However, I wonder how miraculous the legendary Fiendcelestial Phalanx is. I have never seen it before."


    With that, Gongye and a large convoy brought Qin Liehu back to County Governor Manor.


    As for Qin An, he remained remanded in Six Fans Gate''s dungeon. Gongye had even personally arranged for many people to watch him.


    ¡­


    In an elegant mansion.


    "Brother Qin Yun, this is one of the mansions that I secretly purchased. Others do not even know that this mansion is associated with my Hong family." Hong Lingtong entered and said with a smile, "Brother Qin Yun, you can let your family stay in the inner wing of this mansion. I will set up an array formation. Even if soldiers come searching, they would not be able to go beyond the first layer of arrays. They will absolutely not be able to enter the inner wing."


    "Thank you, Brother Hong," said Qin Yun.


    He also had Dao talismans that could conjure concealment techniques. However, they were not as powerful as an array formation. They could only conceal a very tiny region and were unable to hide an entire inner wing.


    "It''s nothing. After setting up the array formation, I can still dismantle and take it away in the future." Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "I will arrange for grain, vegetables, meat and other food to be sent here. I''ll send two maidservants to serve your family. Don''t worry. The two maidservants just need to enter the mansion''s door! Before all of you leave, they will absolutely not go past that door."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Brother Qin Yun, if there''s any other need, please feel free to give your instructions." Hong Lingtong said amiably.


    Changlan said, "Young Master Hong, you offered my Qin family help in its time of need. Yun''er, you have to remember this great favor."


    "Mother, I understand," replied Qin Yun.


    Hong Lingtong immediately said, "Brother Qin Yun, you killed Water God. Numerous people in Grand Dominance County are thankful towards it. Many of them have even set up a permanent plaque in their houses for you. It''s also my honor to help you. I''ll set up the array formations first." With that said, Hong Lingtong left.


    Changlan whispered, "Yun''er, this Hong Lingtong had offered many mansions for your choosing previously. Why did you choose this one?"


    "This is closer to Six Fans Gate. Father and Brother are likely captured and imprisoned in Six Fans Gate''s dungeon." Qin Yun said, "I have to think of a way to save them."


    Six Fans Gate''s dungeon was the place where criminals were usually remanded.


    The mansion they were in was within five kilometers of Six Fans Gate! From the mansion, he could send his flying sword far away and reach Six Fans Gate.


    In fact, the surrounding five kilometers of Six Fans Gate covered nearly half the city. Three of the mansions that Hong Lingtong had offered were also within five kilometers of Six Fans Gate! The reason why he had chosen the particular mansion was that it was also within five kilometers from County Governor Manor! It was naturally the best option.


    "Alright, you have to think of a way to save your father and brother." Changlan was worried as well. His sister-in-law looked at Qin Yun with reddened eyes. The two children were still anxiously hugging their mother''s thighs.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Don''t worry. Leave everything to me."


    Regardless of anything, he had to save his family!

 82 Letter-writing

    Chapter 82: Letter-writing


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Mother, Sister-in-law. Also, Shuyan and Shubing, stay in the inner wing and do not wander around." Qin Yun exhorted.


    "Don''t worry, we will not be a hindrance," Changlan said immediately. She knew it was a critical moment. The local county governor who wielded absolute power was now dealing with their Qin family.


    Changlan and his sister-in-law carried a child each and entered the inner wing.


    The inner wing was about three hundred square meters and Hong Lingtong was busy setting up an array formation.


    On the other hand, Qin Yun walked into a study. There were paper, brushes and ink blocks on the table. Immediately, he poured water into the ink slab and prepared the ink. After it was done, he took a brush hanging off a brush rack and dabbed some ink to begin writing.


    "Little Marquis Lord, I''ve been back in Grand Dominance for half a year. Now, I have something to request of you¡­" Qin Yun wrote his first letter.


    Little Marquis Lord was one of his friends he had gotten to know in the northern borders. He was one of the many cultivators mixed in the group and everyone went through life and death together to fend against the demon horde! Later on, Philo-Marquis Manor from the Jin Prefecture came to capture Little Marquis Lord. Only then did Qin Yun and his other friends learn that one of their companions was the sixth son of the reigning Philo-Marquis.


    After he finishing his first letter, Qin Yun immediately took out another piece of paper to write a second letter.


    "Old General Wang, I, Qin Yun, can only brazenly ask for your help¡­" Qin Yun wrote a second letter.


    Old General Wang was an old general that was in charge of his camp back in his time at the northern border. The old general had thought highly of Qin Yun, who went to the northern borders to risk his life.


    After finishing his second letter¡­


    Qin Yun pondered for a moment before writing his third letter. "Lord Wen¡­" He wrote to the previous county governor.


    "My ties with County Governor Wen doesn''t really run deep. All I did was retrieve the fruit for him and kill Water God to expedite his promotion. In terms of friendship, it''s incomparable to Little Marquis Lord and Old General Wang." Qin Yun thought to himself. "But he''s after all Grand Dominance County''s previous county governor. My father had been working for him in the past, so if my father is said to have colluded with demons, isn''t it a smack in County Governor Wen''s face?"


    "County Governor Wen owes me a favor so I believe he will help me." Qin Yun thought. "Although he has been promoted to a high post, with him being promoted twice to a fourth-grade official, he is only an official of the Qian Prefecture. He cannot deal with County Governor Gongye¡­ However, he has the South Hill''s Wen family backing him. If he can submit a written petition to the imperial government, it will likely be of some use."


    "Three letters."


    Qin Yun looked at the three letters in front of him. "As for Yi Xiao¡­ Yi Xiao is a disciple of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family, whose influence is definitely stronger than Philo-Marquis Manor''s. But Yi Xiao grew up in Divine Firmament Chapter and according to her, she was abandoned by her father at a young age. Moreover, Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family is an extraordinary existence. It doesn''t involve itself with matters of government. Yi Xiao would find it difficult to help me with the imperial government."


    Qin Yun picked up the three letters. "My hopes of overturning the situation will partially rely on these three letters. The rest will be dependent on my flying sword!"


    He did not have the luxury of time and had to make full use of every second.


    After he was done preparing the sealing of the letters, he saw Hong Lingtong almost done with the array setup. Qin Yun walked out.


    "Brother Hong," Qin Yun said. "I have another matter to trouble you."


    "Oh, please tell me." Hong Lingtong said immediately.


    "I have three letters that I need you to send out for me. Send them out in the fastest possible manner," said Qin Yun.


    Hong Lingtong replied immediately, "Rest assured. Leave them to me."


    Qin Yun handed the letters to him.


    Commoners would typically have their letters delivered through merchant groups that happened to be in passing. Previously, Qin Yun would send letters through the official couriers by spending some silver. The official couriers had trained birds meant for the delivery of letters. They were extremely fast! But now, Qin Yun surmised that although he could use a Hypnotizing Spell on mortals, forcing the soldiers within the courier posts to help send his letters, Gongye might have already begun controlling the inflow and outflow of letters.


    As for large family clans like the Hong family, they trained their own bird couriers.


    "Brother Qin Yun," Hong Lingtong said the moment he saw the names and address on the letters. "These three letters go to all over the world, and most of them are in other prefectures! It''s rather far away from here. It will probably take some time to deliver these letters."


    "Just try to do it as fast as possible," said Qin Yun.


    Hong Lingtong nodded. "Alright, I''ll arrange for the delivery now."


    "Thanks," Qin Yun said immediately. He made it a point to remember the help others rendered him. He would return the favor if he had a chance in the future.


    With a smile, Hong Lingtong turned and left.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stood in his spot and waved his hand. A stream of light flew out and instantly charged into the sky. It was his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The three-inch-long silver flying sword reached an altitude of a thousand feet. It cruised silently at a blazing speed! It was high in the air and very small. No one noticed that a flying sword had streaked across the sky.


    Soon.


    When the silver flying sword reached Six Fans Gate, it swooped down and in a flash, entered a gap between roof tiles. Even if someone was on the roof, they would not have been able to see the flying sword.


    Through the flying sword that was hiding between two tiles, Qin Yun could easily use the Intrinsic Flying Sword as the center to see everything within a thousand foot radius!


    He also saw his brother, Qin An, inside a particular cell in the dungeon.


    "Oh?" Standing inside the elegant manor''s inner wing, Qin Yun frowned slightly. "Only Brother is being imprisoned in Six Fans Gate''s dungeon. Where''s Father?"


    "Brother." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission.


    He was able to control the Heaven and Earth powers within a five-kilometer radius. Now, all he needed was to control the Heaven and Earth powers that were beside his brother inside the cell and send his voice into his brother''s ears.


    In the dungeon cell.


    Qin An was sitting there in a daze. He did not know what fate awaited him.


    "Brother." A voice sounded in Qin An''s ears.


    Qin An was stunned. Was it his brother''s voice?


    "Brother, I''m now using the Heaven and Earth powers to transmit my voice. Don''t be shocked and don''t bring attention." Qin Yun continued with his voice transmission. "All you need to do is nod or shake your head."


    Qin An glanced at the guards in the distance and nodded gently.


    "Where''s father? He isn''t in the Six Fans Gate''s dungeons. Where is he?" Qin Yun continued asking with a voice transmission. "Do you know?"


    Qin An nodded slightly.


    Qin Yun quickly made guesses and asked with a voice transmission, "Is Father in County Governor Manor?"


    One of the most secured places in all of Grand Dominance City was the Six Fans Gate''s dungeon. It was specially meant to remand prisoners. The other place was County Governor Manor! After all, that was where the county governor worked and lived in. The security was tighter but it typically did not remand prisoners. The tight security was only meant to protect the county governor in order to prevent demons from assassinating him.


    Qin An nodded slightly again.


    Qin Yun was enlightened. "Indeed, he has been sent to County Governor Manor."


    "Brother, wait a while. I''ll be saving you soon." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission.


    Qin An''s eyes lit up.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun controlled his flying sword to County Governor Manor. The security was tighter there, preventing Qin Yun''s flying sword from approaching too close! It could only circle around County Governor Manor and use the flying sword''s thousand-foot-radius perceptive range to probe most of County Governor Manor''s surroundings.


    "I can only confirm two types of array formations in County Governor Manor. There are others I can''t identify." Qin Yun thought to himself. "County Governor Manor is an extremely dangerous place. To save Father with my strength alone, I''ll need to think of other solutions."


    "I should first save brother quickly."


    "County Governor Gongye, you separated my father and brother in different dungeons! By leaving my brother in Six Fans Gate, it''s very likely a trap." Qin Yun thought to himself. "However, what means can he produce at Six Fans Gate? A direct offense is useless against me. Furthermore, I had dealt with the soldiers only with Heaven Man Unity techniques previously. I did not even use the might of my sword intent."


    Qin Yun immediately got up and left the study. When he went out, he placed his black flying sword on the desk. He replaced the scabbard by his waist with an ordinary mortal weapon.


    Through the black flying sword, he could sense a region of two hundred feet!


    By placing the black flying sword here, he could be aware of everything that happened in the inner wing within a five-kilometer radius. After all, the inner wing only took up three hundred square meters. If anyone were to dare trespass into the inner wing, he could remotely control the black flying sword and slay the enemy!


    ¡­


    Inside a yard in the inner wing, Changlan was standing outside.


    "Mother, wait at home for me. I''ll be out," said Qin Yun.


    "You are leaving so soon?" Changlan was somewhat worried. "You have to be careful."


    "Don''t worry. No one in Grand Dominance City can stop me." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    He had to take action quickly.


    By being fast, he would not give time for the enemy to prepare.


    Now¡­ he would save his brother first!

 83 Perilous Zone

    Chapter 83: Perilous Zone


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside County Governor Manor.


    "Lock him inside my compound. Use that building," Gongye pointed to a building. "Use every chain we have. Ensure the area''s security. Do not make any mistakes."


    "Yes."


    The personal guards immediately escorted Qin Liehu away as he glared at County Governor Gongye.


    "Hmph, if not for your son, I would have taken your life with a simple order," Gongye thought to himself. The imperial government gave absolute power over a county to the county governor. Killing an eighth-grade official was nothing. Of course, the imperial government also demanded a lot of the county governors. For example, they had to deal with demons and placate the commoners.


    Gongye entered a silent chamber and closed the door.


    He sat cross-legged on a mat.


    "I have acted in accordance with the imperial government''s laws. I openly sent troops to deal with the Qin family and the sect behind Qin Yun hasn''t even dared to appear," Gongye scoffed secretly. "Top cultivation sect? How much does that amount to in front of the imperial government? Even the strongest Connate Golden Core realm experts of a top cultivation sect would not dare kill troops wantonly, or they would be pursued by the imperial government and have no choice but to flee."


    The imperial government ruled the world and wielded the Godfiend lineage of cultivation methods.


    Just in the Jiang Prefecture alone, the imperial government assigned two Connate Golden Core experts, one openly and one in secret, to watch over it. Such strength was not inferior to a top cultivation sect like the Scenic Mountain Sect. And this was not even including the Godfiend Guard''s large numbers and the massive army!


    There were nineteen prefectures in the world!


    When added to the forces in the imperial capital, which was where the strongest martial powers of the imperial government were concentrated, it made the imperial government the indisputably greatest faction! Only Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family, and a certain few large family clans could make the imperial government concerned. It would not wish to lose decorum with them! But the imperial government seldom worried about typical top-tier cultivation sects.


    The moment the imperial government gave the order, such as the destruction of demons in Grand Dominance County, Scenic Mountain Sect''s Palatial Lord Essence Charm had immediately come to watch over the county. Why? It was because the imperial government was the rightful governing body of the world. By abiding by the instructions of the imperial government, the sect would enjoy better days. There were common instances in history of sects that were easily flattened after angering the imperial government.


    As for itinerant cultivators and the weaker cultivation sects, they were better off pledging allegiance to the imperial government! For example, Commander Fang and Commander Tie became officials of the imperial government.


    "As long as what I do has precedent according to the imperial government''s laws and I make no mistake, the top cultivation sect backing him will definitely choose not to oppose the imperial army," Gongye thought to himself. "Unfortunately, despite being so young, that Qin Yun was able to quell his anger when I sent troops to capture him! If he had shed blood, killing soldiers¡­ Hmph, he would¡¯ve been taken down by the imperial government even if he is a Connate Golden Core expert!"


    "It seems like the sect backing him has also warned him in the past."


    "However, you did not succumb to my first move. What about my second move?" Gongye anticipated the outcome.


    "Now, your brother will be tortured daily if you do not enter the Six Fans Gate. Yet the security is so tight that it has become a rather perilous zone. Then again, your brother might even be tortured to death. Are you going to watch your brother die while standing idly by?" A black beam stirred in Gongye''s eyes.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was walking on the street.


    The streets were bustling and he could hear conversations everywhere! Inside restaurants and tea shops, patrons chatted away. People were discussing the Qin family, Second Young Master Qin, and the new county governor nearly everywhere in the city.


    "So it was Second Young Master Qin and a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple that killed Water God. Despite accomplishing such a great meritorious feat, Lord County Governor still wants to be rid of him?"


    "Well, isn''t Lord County Governor having a headache now!? Second Young Master Qin is a real godly immortal. That was Second Young Master Qin''s voice everywhere in the city not too long ago."


    "Lower your voice. The soldiers are coming."


    "What''s there to fear!? None of the soldiers that surrounded Qin Manor in the siege died. Many of the soldiers are actually grateful towards Second Young Master Qin."


    There was discussion everywhere.


    The soldiers that were jogging down the streets were feeling very helpless as well. They could only follow their orders to search every corner of the city. "Make way. Did you see a youth leading two women, one old and one young, as well as two three or four-year-old children?" The soldiers were searching the city region by region.


    Qin Yun watched them work.


    He was dressed in an ordinary gray cloth robe. He emanated a strange fluctuation from his body. Even if the mortals around Qin Yun could see him, they would naturally forget what Qin Yun looked like! Even if they tried to carefully recall, they would only vaguely recall seeing a passer-by. This Dharma spell was called the Divine Concealment Spell! The Dharma spell itself wasn''t complicated, but had a high requirement for one''s soul and psyche. Typical cultivators that had just knocked open the gate of immortality were unable to cast it.


    People like Yi Xiao, who had reached the perfected twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm, had an extremely powerful soul and psyche. They were exceedingly close to reaching the Connate realm. Therefore, Divine Firmament Chapter disciples like her could naturally cast such a spell. Because of her looks, she would use the spell to walk unhindered around typical mortals. Only cultivators with powerful psyche were able to discern her true looks.


    Qin Yun had no need to cast it in the past, but now he cast the ''Divine Concealment Spell'' like Yi Xiao.


    "They are searching for us everywhere?" Qin Yun shook his head secretly.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun raised his head immediately as he vaguely made out a bird flying high into the sky.


    "The three letters are being sent? Hong Lingtong sure is fast." Qin Yun had left Quintessential Essence marks on the letters. If anyone were to open the letters without notice, he would be able to sense it. He could also vaguely sense the letters as long as they were in a particular range. Now, he sensed that the three letters were moving at extremely fast speeds in different directions. One of the letters had already gone beyond Grand Dominance City. Clearly, the birds had already been sent to deliver the letters.


    "Although I could think of means to secretly save Brother and Father, I will still need Old General Wang and the others to redress the accusations," Qin Yun thought to himself. "After all, I¡¯m a cultivator that has yet to enter the imperial government. Even if I were to become an official, I would not be able to present a petition to the imperial government due to my lack of status."


    "Only after overturning the accusations can my parents and brother''s family walk on the streets. If not, they can only hide forever." Qin Yun felt resentment.


    Thankfully, he had rendered meritorious services by killing Water God. However, in order to keep his sword intent a secret, the explanation given to the imperial government was that he was only responsible for melee combat. The main credit was given to Yi Xiao and the treasures the Divine Firmament Chapter had bestowed! Therefore, the Divine Firmament Chapter took about eighty to ninety percent of the credit from the imperial government while Qin Yun only got ten to twenty percent.


    If all the credit was given to him, the imperial government would definitely have rewarded him handsomely. But as a result, every great fiendish demon in the world would target him! Demons and humans had been fighting since time immemorial. If great fiendish demons were targeting him, he would have nowhere to hide except Daoist sacred lands or the royal palace.


    "You win some, you lose some."


    "Forget it. Regardless, I have to first think of a way to save Brother and Father. As for redressing the accusations, it would be good if Old General Wang and company are able to help me resolve that matter. If they can''t do it, I''ll just wait until I become stronger! By then, I''ll have a strong enough influence to settle the matter," Qin Yun thought to himself.


    Although he looked like he was walking normally, he was moving very quickly.


    In a blink of an eye, he had come to Six Fans Gate.


    Qin Yun first walked into an alley and made a turn. Following that, he completely vanished.


    He had cast an Invisibility Spell!


    An Invisibility Spell could be seen through by using Dharma Eyes or methods that involved the release of psyche. However, only cultivators were capable of that. The constables in Six Fans Gate were not cultivators but there were a few sent by the county governor! Through Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, he ascertained their locations and maintained a particular distance from them. Even if they activated their Dharma Eyes, they would not be able to discover him.


    Under the effects of the Invisibility Spell, Qin Yun swaggered into Six Fans Gate''s main entrance. The constables at the entrance would not have seen a thing even if they widened their eyes.


    "There are cultivators inside." Qin Yun even knew them personally. After all, he had been to County Governor Manor before. He knew the county governor''s subordinates.


    "They are all too weak to be worth mentioning. First, I should crack this array formation. This is the only array formation in Six Fans Gate." Qin Yun felt at ease. After all, his Intrinsic Flying Sword could sense everything in a thousand foot radius. He had long discovered the array formation and his father had informed him of the situation regarding Six Fans Gate.


    Amid invisibility, Qin Yun came to a dark corner and released his flying sword.


    Sou!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out like a fish and turned the corner of Six Fans Gate, quickly tunneling into the building.

 84 Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation

    Chapter 84: Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun also sensed the scene within the dungeon. His gaze turned colder.


    Inside the dungeon, Qin An was tied to a wooden frame. Beside him was a charcoal stove and the charcoal inside it was burning red with flames billowing out of it. A metal rod was being heated inside the stove and two prison wardens sitting beside him were mumbling under their breaths, "Young Master Qin An, don''t you blame us. It was ordered by Lord County Governor. We have to let you enjoy this once a day. If we disobey the order, the ones enjoying this would be the both of us."


    "Don''t worry, no matter how severe the punishment, you will not die! We will ensure that you do not die. If you were to die, we would be in great trouble as well."


    One of the prison wardens glanced at the charcoal stove. "It will be ready in a short while. According to the rules, we have to brand you five times. Hey, Old Fu, is the salt prepared?"


    "Wait a moment. Someone is getting it." A prison warden shouted from afar.


    "First, you will be branded before some salt will be sprinkled. Young Master Qin An, you must have never experienced this before. I guarantee you that you will never forget it for life." A prison warden said with a chuckle. "Don''t worry, we are experienced. You will definitely not die."


    Qin An gritted his teeth as his body could not help but tremble.


    It was instinctive. He was unable to control the trembling even if he tried.


    "Dong!"


    Beneath the dungeon, there was a quiver. It was very weak, something undetectable to ordinary people.


    In fact, buried deep underground was a bronze column. There were complicated runes engraved on the column and at that moment, a flying sword had tunneled underground. It stabbed through the bronze column with a bang, destroying the runes on the column! The Six Fans Gate dungeon''s array formation was especially used to prevent cultivators from succeeding in a prison break! Once the array was triggered, ordinary cultivators would not be able to escape.


    Ordinary cultivators were unable to release their psyche nor would they be able to find the array core deep underground.


    However, Qin Yun could instantly crack it.


    "Oh no!"


    "Be careful, there''s a prison break!"


    There were alarmed shouts from outside the dungeon! Despite the shouts, they were obstructed by the Heaven and Earth powers. The sound could not reach the dungeon!


    Following that, Qin Yun walked straight into the dungeon. He walked past the prison wardens who could not see him at all.


    "There will be constables rushing in very soon. I have to bring Brother away as soon as possible. However¡­ Did Gongye Bin really not lay a trap?" Qin Yun felt baffled. Everything was going too smoothly.


    Under the cover of invisibility, he walked through the dungeon.


    In a few steps, he came beside his brother.


    "Phuah!"


    A sword beam flashed.


    Qin An was watching the metal rod in the charcoal stove turning red. A prison warden was also walking over with a plate filled with salt! At that moment, Qin An could not help but grit his teeth. "Bear with it! Bear with it! It won''t result in death. I won''t die."


    Suddenly, he felt the binding on his wrists loosen. The pressure on his ankles relaxed and clanging sounds were heard! The shackles that restrained him fell to the ground in pieces. The cuffs about his ankles had shattered.


    Qin An retracted his arms in a daze.


    "This¡­" The two prison wardens sitting by the side were dumbfounded. They watched in horror at the chains and cuffs shattering. What had broken the shackles and cuffs? They had failed to see it clearly. All they saw was a hazy stream of light.


    "Prison break¡ª"


    One of the fat prison wardens widened his eyes and shouted. The other prison wardens were also alarmed. Many imprisoned criminals looked over curiously. Following that, they felt the surrounding air solidify. A formless energy enveloped them, as well as the prison wardens around them.


    "Out."


    With an ethereal cry, all the prison wardens flew up and were thrown far away.


    Woosh! Woosh! Woosh!


    The criminals looked in astonishment at Qin An, who was tied to a wooden frame. A gray-clothed man had appeared out of thin air.


    At the moment Qin Yun appeared, he extended his hand to grab Qin Yun''s wrist. "Brother, I''ll be taking you away. Be careful. There might be danger around here."


    Qin An looked at the figure in front of him and was astonished and puzzled. "Brother?" Despite hearing his brother''s voice, for some reason, he could not remember the looks of the person in front of him. Qin An even began to suspect if he had turned extremely old and frail. He was like an elder in his eighties or nineties, unable to remember a thing. However, he could recall things very clearly except the looks of the person in front of him.


    How could Qin An be able to crack the Divine Concealment Spell?


    Qin Yun naturally did not want to leave behind any evidence while breaking his brother out of jail. He constantly maintained Divine Concealment Spell to prevent others from recognizing him.


    "Prison break!"


    "There''s a prison break!"


    "Save us!"


    "Is that Second Young Master Qin?" The criminals that were remanded shouted excitedly.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Five inconspicuous wooden columns in the dungeon exploded one after another. Five men appeared, each of them was covered with a thick wooden shell. Furthermore, they grew a lot of leaf veins. There was a thick wood-elemental spiritual energy emanating the entire dungeon. Instantly, the scene turned illusionary and became a hazy green world. The green world''s roots were the five men with countless veins rapidly binding against each other.


    The veins tore through the bodies of some of the criminals who were in the range of the array formation. They died with their eyes open. Others were bound and they suffocated to their deaths. In a blink of an eye, dozens of criminals died. Instantly, the surroundings were filled with the smell of blood. It was the fresh blood of the dead criminals. When the veins were stained with blood, they appeared even more menacing.


    "This is?" Qin Yun grabbed Qin An''s hand and solemnly observed his surroundings. "What a strange array formation. My psyche is unable to penetrate it. Although I have Heaven Man Unity, I can only barely sense that the Heaven and Earth powers contained within the array formation are extremely complicated in its flow. But I do not know anything about array formations."


    Qin An panicked as he looked at the countless leaves and veins around him.


    "What brotherly love! Lord County Governor was right after all. You really came to save your brother." The quintet stared at Qin Yun and was feeling excited. They were unaffected by the Divine Concealment Spell and could see Qin Yun''s looks clearly.


    "The Liu brothers?" Qin Yun said with a deep voice. "So it''s you."


    "It appears you are rather powerful. Heaven Man Unity? As a Postnatal cultivator, you are able to defeat an ordinary person at the Connate False Core realm." Eldest Liu scoffed.


    Third Liu chuckled and said, "The five of us could match the Connate False Core before we become followers of the lord. With this formation, our strength is even more formidable!"


    "You will definitely die today." Fourth Liu said.


    "All of you are infamous, being on the kill lists of more than one cultivator. By submitting to Gongye Bing, you enjoy a sense of stability while donning the facade of being officials." Qin Yun quipped.


    "Brothers, cut the crap with him. Kill!" Fifth Liu said.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The Liu brothers attacked together. Instantly, countless veins flew toward Qin Yun and Qin An. Qin An''s face was drained of its color.


    "Break." Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword instantly whistled out, severing the incoming veins. A large number of veins were constantly being slashed apart! Due to the large number, Qin Yun could only manage to reduce a small portion of the surrounding veins. However, they continued growing after being sliced off! New veins would spread towards them in great number. Qin Yun felt that as the entire array formation stirred, the wood-elemental aura was constantly condensing and producing new veins.


    "Cut, cut it all." Qin Yun controlled with all his might. He even intended to kill the Liu brothers.


    However, the closer it was to the Liu brothers, the thicker the veins became. It also became more difficult to slice through the veins! Just one Intrinsic Flying Sword could only barely create a three-foot radius defense.


    "I have to use my sword intent! If not, there''s no way I can break this formation." Qin Yun thought to himself. "However, the moment I use my sword intent, I have to kill all the Liu brothers. I cannot expose my sword intent."


    By using sword intent, his strength would increase to the Connate True Core realm!


    For a Postnatal sword immortal to possess such strength meant only one possibility¡ªgrasping sword intent! He could not afford to expose it at all. The outcome would be many times worse than the threat the county governor posed. All the great fiendish demons would hunt him down.


    "Haha¡­ You can''t crack this formation. You are doomed. Let me tell you! This is the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation! You should be gladdened that you are being killed by this formation!" The Liu brothers were frenzied.


    "Misty Rain Sword Intent!"


    Qin Yun''s eyes flashed as he immediately conjured his Misty Rain Sword Intent.

 85 Gongye Bing, you are ruthless!

    Chapter 85: Gongye Bing, you are ruthless!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin An panicked while he watched from the side. After all, the veins were constantly hurtling at them. The dungeon cells beside them had been easily penetrated and crushed. It was already extremely demanding on one flying sword to ward off the countless veins.


    "Brother, if you can''t withstand it, ignore me. Just flee for your life." Qin An said immediately.


    At the same time, the Liu brothers began controlling the thick veins to wrap around venomous awls. There were five of them, each being powerful Dharma artifacts! They were also laced with a toxic venom of the Magus lineage. If an ordinary cultivator were to be tainted by a tiny bit of it, they would die instantly. By using one''s Dharmic powers to control the venomous awls, they were powerless against Qin Yun but with the thick veins wrapped around them, it made the awls move much faster and made them pose a greater threat.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    The silver flying sword turned into a hazy misty rain that seemed to flitter. The extremely robust veins instantly became easier to cleave through. As the veins were constantly being cleaved apart, the silver flying sword''s shadow flitted towards the Liu brothers!


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The five venomous awls the Liu brothers controlled were sliced apart with a flash of a sword beam, crashing to the ground loudly as fragments. The Dharma artifacts had failed to put up any resistance before being destroyed.


    "What!?" The Liu brothers'' expressions changed drastically.


    "Why did his strength increase so tremendously?"


    "The Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation is rapidly unable to hold him back." The Liu brothers saw how the veins they were controlling were being cleaved apart. With the pandemonium approaching them, they could not help but panic.


    They were only that strong through the control of the formation.


    Without the formation, their combat strength would decrease to a fifth!


    "Could this might of his imply that he has the strength at the Connate True Core realm?" The Liu brothers speculated. They were acutely aware that even ordinary Connate False Core realm cultivators would barely survive amid the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation.


    "He''s only a Postnatal sword immortal. Could it be¡­"


    "Sword intent?"


    The quintet came up with a guess and could not help but be alarmed.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!" More veins were sliced through. There were fewer veins for them to control! The condensation and regrowth of the veins were not as fast as they were being sliced apart.


    "Eldest Brother!" Second Liu yelled. "Quick!"


    Eldest Liu immediately took out a red bottle.


    ¡­


    When County Governor Gongye brought Qin Liehu away, he had handed a red bottle to Eldest Liu. "This is one of my treasures. If Qin Yun attempts a prison break and the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation is unable to stop him, allowing them to have a chance of escaping, uncap the bottle! Remember, use this treasure only when dealing with Qin Yun. Unless it''s critical, do not use this treasure. Even my heart aches if it''s used!"


    "My lord, don''t worry. We would only use it at the critical moment against Qin Yun! Haha¡­ If Qin Yun doesn''t have any powerful life-preserving methods that were given to him by his sect, killing him with the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation is sufficient." Eldest Liu had said so confidently.


    ¡­


    "If we don''t use it, the five of us are doomed." Eldest Liu ignored the repercussions and used the county governor''s treasure.


    With a poof, the bottle stopper was pulled out.


    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"


    A swath of dense black bugs flew out of the bottle. Instantly, they rushed into Eldest Liu body as he immediately widened his eyes. "Gongye Bing, you are ruthless!"


    His body noiselessly slumped to the ground as swaths of dense black bugs bored out of his body. At that moment, the black bugs were in one swarm but when it flew out, it split into five tinier swarms. They charged at the other four Liu brothers and Qin Yun! Instead, the mortal, Qin An was not targeted by any of the black bugs.


    "It doesn''t differentiate friend from foe?" Qin Yun''s expression changed when he saw the scene.


    "Gongye Bing!" The other four Liu brothers were appalled when they saw the situation unfold. They even let out shrill screams.


    "Gongye Bing, you are ruthless!"


    "We have been so loyal to you but you actually did this to us!?"


    "You will die a horrible death!"


    One by one they shouted.


    They were disgruntled! They had been loyal to Gongye Bing but they never expected that the so-called killer move he had left them did not differentiate foe from friend. The five of them would be killed as well! Clearly, Gongye Bing had wantonly abandoned the five of them in order to kill Qin Yun.


    "Destroy!"


    However, Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword to produce his Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Phew¡­"


    The silver flying sword instantly held back the incoming black bugs. The bugs frantically attacked but were sliced and ground by the flying sword. As for the other four swarms of bugs, they ignored the situation. They continued dealing with the Liu brothers, boring into their bodies and devouring their flesh and blood.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword could match a fifth-grade Dharma treasure. Powered by the sword intent, even though the black bugs were a lot harder than typical metal, they were still easily sliced apart.


    After destroying one swarm, the flying sword immediately charged at Fifth Liu''s corpse that was closest to it. Just as the black bugs that had grown slightly larger flew out of his corpse, they were enveloped by the silver flying sword.


    "What sort of venomous bugs are these?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. "They do not seem interested in my brother. Clearly, they feed on cultivators! Furthermore, they rapidly grow after consuming flesh and blood. Such venomous bugs must have a weakness¡­ If not, they would become a scourge of this world."


    Everything in the world reinforced or countered each other.


    The venomous bugs definitely had their faults and weaknesses. He just wasn''t aware of them.


    Although he had roamed the world for six years, he had never encountered such powerful venomous bugs before!


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" The silver sword immediately returned to Qin Yun and blocked the black bugs. Yet, they continued attacking Qin Yun relentlessly! They were constantly minced by the silver flying sword.


    "Oh? They seem to lack intelligence. Despite knowing that they will be sending themselves to their deaths, they still continue their assault?" Qin Yun discovered the first flaw of the black bugs. They were too silly.


    Of course, ordinary Connate False Core realm cultivators would not be able to defend against so many black bugs that attacked from every direction unless they had powerful treasures protecting themselves.


    Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Intent was best at defense! It was an impenetrable aegis that caused all the venomous bugs to eventually die!


    "Swoosh."


    With a wave of his hand, the treasures left behind by the Liu brothers flew over. With a cursory glance, he kept them in his Cosmic Bag. Through the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s perception, he knew everything about the treasures they had.


    "The five of them are dead! The only ones that truly could identify me are the five of them. With them dead, the Six Fans Gate will not know who saved my brother." Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Brother, let''s go," said Qin Yun.


    "Go?" Qin An nodded immediately.


    Qin Yun grabbed his brother and leaped onto the silver sword that had expanded to nearly ten feet long. Furthermore, he took out an Invisibility Charm and triggered it immediately.


    Buzz.


    Invisible energy enveloped Qin Yun and Qin An. With that, the both of them vanished.


    "Boom!" The Six Fans Gate dungeon''s roof exploded, forming a huge hole.


    With his brother, Qin Yun instantly charged into the sky, escaping the dungeon. As he left, he controlled the Heaven and Earth powers to deliberately actuate the entire dungeon.


    ¡­


    Previously, the prison wardens that Qin Yun had sent flying watched as the horrifying veins overwhelmed a huge area. All of them ran outside in terror. They managed to escape but of course, it was because the Liu brothers had no intention of killing the prison wardens.


    The prison wardens had escaped the dungeon while other constables outside the dungeon rushed over.


    "What happened? What happened in there?"


    No one present dared to enter.


    As the entire dungeon quaked, there were veins sprouting out of the windows and walls, it left the constables appalled. They were worried that the dungeon might collapse at any time.


    "Who are the ones battling inside?" More and more constables rushed over.


    "No idea." The prison wardens shook their heads in a daze.


    "We saw the shackles and cuffs on Qin An suddenly shatter. A man suddenly appeared and we immediately shouted about the prison break. Following that, we were thrown out. I can''t even remember what the man looks like."


    "Neither can I."


    "I saw his face but I don''t remember it."


    One prison warden after another said.


    When one of the constables saw this, he nodded and said, "This is a Dharma spell of cultivators. When we mortals see them, we will not remember their looks. While engaging in prison breaks and crimes, cultivators naturally do not want to expose their identities."


    Suddenly, silence befell the dungeon.


    It was completely silent.


    The people gathered outside waited and watched curiously. Following that, there was a blast as the roof to the dungeon exploded!


    Boom! Boom! Boom! The dungeon that had been damaged by the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation began crumbling when Qin Yun actuated it through the control of the Heaven and Earth powers. A pile of dust escaped into the sky as a tiny portion of the dungeon was left erect.


    ¡­


    And up in the air,


    Qin Yun and Qin An were flying at high speed through Sword Kinesis Flight on a gigantic flying sword.


    The constables beneath them had looked up due to the explosion of the roof but due to the Invisibility Spell, all they saw was the bright clear skies! They did not see any figures.


    Qin Yun and Qin An overlooked their surroundings and could see everything clearly.


    "Are we flying? Is this Sword Kinesis Flight?" Qin An was somewhat perplexed. This was a matter of legends. Looking at the constables beneath them looking up as though they could not see them, he asked, "Can''t they see us?"


    "I have cast an Invisibility Spell. Mortals can''t see us." Qin Yun explained.

 86 Initial Scouting of County Governor Manor

    Chapter 86: Initial Scouting of County Governor Manor


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin An, still reeling from the explosion and subsequent flight, looked carefully at the huge silver flying sword beneath his feet. It was massive and the sword''s body was aqueous. It also felt like a misty mirage, mystical and beautiful! It was more attractive than any precious stone.


    "Brother, I have never seen any treasure that is more beautiful than this flying sword of yours." Qin An could not help but comment.


    "The cultivation of an Intrinsic Flying Sword isn''t exactly easy," Qin Yun said. "By the way, do not tell mother and your family about me bringing you back with Sword Kinesis Flight after we return."


    "I understand." Qin An nodded immediately.


    Beneath them.


    Outside Six Fans Gate, in the streets, restaurants and tea shops, people were looking at Six Fans Gate from afar. They had heard the loud collapse of the Six Fans Gate dungeon that sent thick smoke and dust billowing into the sky.


    "What happened?"


    "The Six Fans Gate dungeon collapsed. It collapsed!" A patron on the third floor of a tea shop surveyed the large dungeon in Six Fans Gate. Only half of the dungeon''s pillars were left standing while the rest had collapsed, resulting in the plume of dust.


    "What, the Six Fans Gate dungeon collapsed? Who could be capable of that?"


    "Quick, find out what happened."


    None of these people noticed the two people leaving swiftly on a flying sword.


    ¡­


    As the duo engaged in Sword Kinesis Flight, they tore through the sky at extremely high speeds. Soon, they came above a compound and plunged down.


    In the inner wing of the exquisite compound, Changlan was chatting with her daughter-in-law. Her grandchildren were to the side, eating desserts.


    Phew!


    Two figures suddenly appeared inside the yard. It was none other than Qin Yun and Qin An. As for the flying sword, Qin Yun had obviously already stowed it away.


    "An''er?" Changlan''s eyes turned red the moment she saw him. Beside her, the daughter-in-law immediately shouted, "Hubby!" She instantly flung herself into Qin An''s embrace amid tears of joy. The two children, Shubing and Shuyan, also ran over and hugged their father. They burst out into tears, with unfinished dessert still in their mouths. The two children had truly been traumatized. Yet it was only when they saw their father that they bawled loudly.


    Qin An lifted up his children. "Don''t cry. Be a good boy and girl. Isn''t Daddy already back?"


    He kissed his children and pacified them until they gradually stopped crying.


    His wife wiped the tears from her eyes and gradually calmed down as well.


    Qin An consoled them and said, "I''m fine. Although the Six Fans Gate dungeon was filled with experts, they were nothing to Brother. I return unscathed."


    Qin Yun felt somewhat relieved seeing his brother and family reunite.


    "Yun''er," Changlan said immediately. "What about your father? Is there any way to save him?"


    "Father has been imprisoned in County Governor Manor," Qin Yun explained. "The security in County Governor Manor is the tightest in all of Grand Dominance County. It will take more time to think of a good method to save Father."


    When Changlan heard that, she said immediately, "Try to think of a solution. Yun''er, only you can save your father. However, don''t rashly send yourself to your death."


    "Don''t worry, Mother. But first, I''ll be taking a rest," said Qin Yun.


    "Go ahead, go ahead," Changlan responded immediately.


    Qin Yun nodded and headed towards a room to the side.


    As Changlan looked at Qin Yun''s back, she felt her heart ache but she could do nothing. She was unable to help in any way.


    "Hubby, the county governor surrounded Qin Manor with the army and had large numbers of crossbow arrows shot at us. Brother made the entire world tremble and the arrows were left hanging in midair. All of us flew up¡­ and he brought us out of Qin Manor. Despite all the soldiers, they were powerless to stop us," Qin An''s wife recounted in hush tones. She had truly witnessed how powerful her brother-in-law was.


    Qin An nodded. "It''s good that all of you are fine. I''m now worried about my father."


    "Don''t press your brother. He will do his best," Changlan said from the side.


    "Yea." Qin An and his wife nodded.


    After entering the room, Qin Yun closed the door and sat cross-legged on the bed. He exhaled long and slowly before he began focusing on absorbing the spiritual energies of the heaven and earth to replenish his Quintessential Essence. "Bringing someone along with me in Sword Kinesis Flight for just a few kilometers has drained my Quintessential Essence by seventy percent! The battle before only drained about ten percent."


    Sword kinesis was relatively simple but Sword Kinesis Flight drained a great deal of Quintessential Essence. Then to bring someone along in Sword Kinesis Flight? And for several kilometers?


    It sure looked impressive but it drained Quintessential Essence at an appalling rate. It was too demanding on a Postnatal realm sword immortal. However, Qin Yun was worried that Gongye had other traps, so he had rushed up into the sky. Escaping by Sword Kinesis Flight was the safest way!


    ¡­


    By the time the news reached County Governor Manor, it took more than an hour for Gongye to lead people to Six Fans Gate.


    "The county governor is here. It''s the county governor."


    "Is he the one that dealt with the Qin family?"


    In the surrounding restaurants and tea shops, many passers-by discussed from afar. All of them spoke in whispers.


    "I heard that the Qin family''s Eldest Young Master, Qin An, has been rescued from inside the Six Fans Gate dungeon! And more than half the dungeon collapsed in the escape."


    "It must have been Second Young Master Qin who saved him."


    "Indeed, how can a place like Six Fans Gate be able to ward off Second Young Master Qin?"


    Although the discussions of the commoners from afar were soft, Gongye was, in fact, a Connate True Core realm fiend, so he naturally heard all of them. However, he could only bear with it. After all, the entire city was talking about Second Young Master Qin. He could only pretend as though he had not heard them.


    He entered Six Fans Gate.


    "Lord County Governor."


    "Lord County Governor." Everyone said respectfully.


    Gongye indifferently led his men to the collapsed Six Fans Gate dungeon. He said coldly, "No one else has been permitted entry, right?"


    "Lord County Governor." Two silver-badge constables came forward. One of them was Constable Lei, who said politely, "After the dungeon collapsed, we surrounded the area. Only an old coroner was sent inside to investigate. After confirming that there were no living souls, he came back out."


    "Greetings, Lord County Governor." An old hunchbacked coroner said respectfully from the side, "After investigating the area, I have been here all this time. I did not dare leave."


    "Alright." Gongye''s eyes condensed black runes in an undetectable fashion. He looked at the old coroner as his clothes turned transparent. Nothing he carried could be concealed.


    After taking one look, Gongye took a step forward and arrived in front of the collapsed Six Fans Gate dungeon.


    He could still see the many ''scars'' on the dungeon''s bricks. There were holes and ditches formed by the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation.


    "Those five good-for-nothings. They weren''t even careful while using the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation. They caused more than half the dungeon to collapse, making it hard to see traces of the battle." Gongye frowned. His gaze even penetrated the bricks and down into the corpses that were being pinned to the ground. The criminals'' corpses were obvious at a glance. He also saw the remnant skins of the Liu brothers. They had been sucked dry of their flesh and blood.


    "Not a single treasure is left. Even the Five Revolutions Mystic Wood Formation''s formation artifact is gone." Gongye frowned slightly. "It looks like the perpetrator has taken it away. Eldest Liu and company have also released the Netherblood Bugs. However, none of the Netherblood Bugs flew out to harm the other cultivators in Six Fans Gate. Hmph, the perpetrator sure took pity on the weak by killing all the Netherblood Bugs."


    Gongye turned and walked towards the prison wardens. He scanned them and asked, "Did any one of you notice anything about the person that broke Qin An out of prison?"


    "No, all we saw was a stream of light flash across us and then the shackles and cuffs on Qin An''s body were shattered."


    "I saw a man appear but I cannot remember what he looks like at all."


    "Following that, we were flung out."


    The prison wardens said one after another.


    Gongye frowned.


    A group of mortals was truly useless!


    "To use the Netherblood Bugs implies two possibilities. One, Qin Yun had come to break his brother out of prison. Eldest Liu and company were unable to stop him and resorted to using the Netherblood Bugs. The other possibility is that Eldest Liu and company encountered danger and were forced to use the Netherblood Bugs. There''s no way to identify the perpetrator. Is it Qin Yun''s senior from his sect?" Gongye narrowed his eyes as they suffused a cold glint. "They truly cherish that Qin Yun. They are even willing to transgress against the imperial government and its laws for him?"


    ******


    Inside a room.


    Qin Yun sat on the bed and suddenly opened his eyes.


    He had been resting for two hours, and recovered about half his Quintessential Essence.


    "Next, I have to think of a way to save Father." Qin Yun had a heavy expression. "County Governor Manor is on high alert, and there are powerful array formations set up to prevent demons from assassinating the county governor! Even among all the nineteen prefectures under the heavens, it is extremely rare for a county governor to be assassinated inside their manor!"


    There were some who were assassinated outside their manors.


    But to be assassinated inside¡­ those were few and far between.


    Why? It was because the imperial government had set up large-scale array formations inside County Governor Manor!


    This fact made Qin Yun lack confidence.


    "Regardless, I''ll give it a try first."


    "Out."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as a sword beam instantly flew out from it. It hung close to the corners of the windows and out the room. It charged into the sky and rapidly flew towards County Governor Manor.


    Soon.


    With a whoosh, the Intrinsic Flying Sword arrived outside County Governor Manor. It hovered amid the grass and sensed a thousand feet around it. County Governor Manor was emptier than usual, as nearly half the men had gone to Six Fans Gate with the county governor. There were not many experts left in the manor.


    "I can only identify two of the array formations. I do not understand the rest." Qin Yun sensed it with his psyche embedded in the Intrinsic Flying Sword. "Forgetting myself, even array experts might not be able to fully identify them. After all, it was set up by the imperial government to protect the incumbent county governor."


    "In the past, I have always been a guest and never suffered any attacks inside. Yet, now I have to force my way in."


    "Regardless, I have to give it a try! I need to know how powerful the County Governor Manor is!"


    "Out."


    Phew.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword noiselessly burrowed into the mud and instantly approached County Governor Manor from underground. However, within dozens of feet beyond the manor''s walls, a large amount of Heaven and Earth power surged from within County Governor Manor. It formed a gigantic barrier that protected most of County Governor Manor. Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was trapped within the barrier!


    The barrier had five layers and the Intrinsic Flying Sword was trapped between the outermost and penultimate layers.


    "It''s actually the combination of five different array formations?" Qin Yun reeled in shock. Only then did he realize that the two array formations he detected were only a portion of a massive array formation.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The outermost layer was a water layer and the penultimate layer was a fire layer. Countless runes were suffusing and circulating with irrepressible might. In the gap between the two, the contact of water and fire resulted in rumbling. With the array formation activated, it constantly assaulted Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword seemed to be stuck in a massive maelstrom as it struggled. All the while, it continued being struck.


    As for the flying sword that was imbued with Quintessential Essence, its energy was constantly being drained at a speed much faster than when Sword Kinesis Flight was being used. Qin Yun was only in the Postnatal realm, after all. The amount of Quintessential Essence imbued in the flying sword was naturally lacking.


    "That''s bad. Once the Quintessential Essence within the Intrinsic Flying Sword is fully drained, its strength will greatly decrease! If it can¡¯t escape, the Intrinsic Flying Sword will be lost in there! Escape!" Qin Yun ignored everything else and did not dare delay. If the Intrinsic Flying Sword were to be lost there, it would be an abject failure, and he could forget about saving his father.


    Boom!


    The silver flying sword struck at the outermost water layer with all its might, causing the water layer to quake and distort. Only after a second strike did a tiny hole open up. Immediately, the Intrinsic Flying Sword bored through the hole and escaped out of the array. With a whoosh, it vanished into the sky.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere, Gongye had already departed Six Fans Gate with his men. They were on their way back to County Governor Manor.


    "Oh?" Gongye pulled aside the carriage''s curtains and looked in the direction of County Governor Manor. He saw a huge resplendent barrier enveloping County Governor Manor. A sneer suffused his lips. "The imperial government built hundreds of county governor manors in the nineteen prefectures at great cost and effort. You want to barge inside County Governor Manor? You are overestimating your abilities!"

 87 Submitting a Petition to the Imperial Governmen

    Chapter 87: Submitting a Petition to the Imperial Government


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The day of 16th October was lit abuzz.


    First, the new county governor, Gongye Bing, had sent troops to surround Qin Manor and capture the Qin family! Then, the Second Young Master Qin''s voice was broadcast through the heaven and earth, resounding throughout the city. It claimed that the new county governor had framed him and that he had killed Water God together with a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple¡­ After that, Second Young Master Qin escaped easily with his family. The most the troops suffered were minor injuries. No one lost their lives. Many soldiers actually praised Second Young Master Qin.


    And about two hours later, a huge commotion happened at Six Fans Gate.


    The Six Fans Gate dungeon collapsed! The accused, Qin An, had been broken out of prison, and he was the elder brother of the Qin family''s second young master.


    And about two hours after that...


    A huge commotion happened again at County Governor Manor as a massive array formation barrier surrounded the manor. It was gorgeous and dazzling. Many commoners had the chance to see the rare activation of County Governor Manor''s massive array. There were rumors that Qin Yun''s father, Qin Liehu, was imprisoned inside County Governor Manor.


    ¡­


    It was rare for so many things to happen in Grand Dominance City all in one day. There was talk about it everywhere.


    When night fell, many restaurants turned even more lively.


    In a guest room, several merchants were drinking happily. They had also ordered their subordinates to guard the entrance carefully.


    "Haha, how delightful."


    "To think that the vicious county governor would encounter such a day."


    "When he pressed us, all we could do was obediently lower our heads. But when he exerted force on Young Master Qin Yun, our new county governor made a wrong move. He stirred a hornets'' nest."


    The merchants continued chatting and drinking.


    ¡­


    In another luxurious manor.


    "Thousands of soldiers could do nothing. Even the personal guards under his command were useless! The Six Fans Gate dungeon has collapsed and all our new county governor can do is hide in County Governor Manor. Haha¡­"


    "My wish is that Qin Yun would just assassinate this vicious county governor next time he¡¯s out in the open. Kill that old bastard and rid the evil that plagues us."


    "Keep it down. Keep it down."


    "Don''t worry. It''s fine here at my place! All I wish now is to see that old bastard of a new county governor die."


    "However, assassinating a county governor is a grave crime. If he did that, Young Master Qin Yun would be finished."


    ¡­


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    "Little Shuang, there are many guests who wish to meet you today," said Auntie Xue.


    "I''m not meeting any of them," Chen Shuang said coldly. "All of them are only here to ask me about Brother Yun. Now that Brother Yun is in danger, why would I be in the mood to accompany them in a conversation?"


    "Alright, alright. I''ll reject them now." Auntie Xue nodded.


    ¡­


    All the rich families in the city and even the lowliest commoners were discussing the issue fervently. More than ninety percent of the people were on Qin Yun''s side.


    "This bunch of scum." Gongye Bing led his subordinates and walked around the city in casual attire. The discussions he heard made his face turn extremely gloomy.


    ...


    Back in County Governor Manor.


    "Think of every means possible to sully Qin Yun''s reputation no matter what the cost." Gongye Bing glanced at the subordinates behind him. "Especially the news about him killing Water God. Let the commoners understand that the person that really killed Water God was a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. Let it be known that Qin Yun did not even participate. He is only insidious scum that colludes with demons and deliberately flaunted himself."


    "Do not worry, Lord. I''ll do it immediately. The storytellers and people with nothing to do will obediently listen to your order. In a few days, all of Grand Dominance City will probably be cursing Qin Yun," The subordinate said confidently.


    "Do it quickly." Gongye Bing waved his hand.


    "Yes." The subordinate immediately took his leave.


    Gongye Bing frowned and pondered. "The problem with reputation is that it¡¯s easy to ruin. And I control the entire county, so it''s rather easy to destroy one person¡¯s reputation. But now, he is hiding. There''s no way to find a powerful cultivator when he wants to hide."


    "What do I do? Both of my last plans have failed."


    Gongye Bing felt a little vexed.


    The plan to capture Qin Yun at Qin Manor and the trap at Six Fans Gate¡­ both failures!


    "Now, I have to force him to make an appearance." Gongye Bing turned to a building not far from him. That was where Qin Liehu was imprisoned.


    "Bring all the torture devices to Qin Liehu''s building. I''ll take good care of him!" Gongye Bing''s face revealed a savage look.


    "Yes."


    The personal guards near him responded immediately.


    ******


    Although everyone in the city was discussing about how powerful Qin Yun was, how he was able to ward off the huge army and barge into Six Fans Gate and County Governor Manor, Qin Yun himself was feeling rather helpless.


    Outside the window, a bright moon was hanging high in the sky.


    Qin Yun was slowly writing with a brush when he placed it down and looked outside at the bright moon.


    "I wonder how Father is right now," Qin Yun thought to himself. "I am unable to do a thing about the array formation in County Governor Manor. Thankfully, I had only sent my flying sword in to scout the area. If I had gone in person, I''d probably be dead."


    Inside that terrifying array, Qin Yun would only have been able to defend himself by using Cyclic Sword Flash against the might of the water and fire barriers. However, while occupied with protecting himself, he would not be able to charge out of the array. And by not doing so, he would be enervated of his Quintessential Essence. After that, he would turn to ash under the might of the water and fire.


    "That was still using the cracks between the first and second layer. My flying sword could not even delve deeper." Qin Yun shook his head slightly. "No wonder there has never been talk of anyone successfully killing a county governor in a County Governor Manor in the world."


    "But¡­"


    "Father is imprisoned in County Governor Manor." Qin Yun felt anxious but he could not do a thing.


    "Out."


    With another wave of his hand, a flying sword immediately flew out of the compound and headed for County Governor Manor under the darkness. It floated amid the grass outside County Governor Manor. From that distance, he could sense the building that imprisoned his father.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed immediately as his eyes turned red.


    "Father!"


    Qin Yun could sense and clearly ''see'' his topless father in the building through the Intrinsic Flying Sword. His body was covered in blood as flesh splintered open. His father was lying on the ground groaning in pain.


    "Darn it! Darn it! Darn it!" Qin Yun''s eyes turned red as the anger in him boiled. "Gongye Bing, you are going too far! You are going way too far!"


    He had a strong urge to storm County Governor Manor at that very moment.


    However, having traveled the world for years, and having many life-and-death experiences in the northern borders, Qin Yun knew that acting on impulse was worthless! To risk his life without any shred of hope was only sending himself to his death. It was the silliest thing. If he died, what would happen to his brother''s family and his mother? They were still burdened by the accusations and could not go out in the open.


    He was helpless to save his father even though he wanted to do so. All he could do was watch his father suffer.


    "Father."


    Qin Yun knelt in the direction of County Governor Manor in his room. "I''m useless. I made you suffer! Tolerate another few more days. I will definitely save you! I will definitely avenge you!"


    ¡­


    Late at night.


    Qin Yun drank alone in the yard. He felt more melancholic as the alcohol reached his intestines. The thought of his father suffering left him unable to sleep. The moment he closed his eyes, the scene would replay.


    "Yun''er, you haven''t slept?" Changlan came out of the house.


    "Mother." Qin Yun looked as his mother.


    "Are you vexed over your father?" Changlan sighed and said, "Everyone will die eventually. Back in the village, many villagers were captured and killed by demons. If this is truly a tribulation your father needs to face, then it is something he has to face alone! You just have to do your best. Your father and I have already lived a long life. In the villages, those that can live to our ages would be considered as living to a ripe old age."


    "Mother, don''t talk about it any further." Qin Yun said gloomily, "There will be a solution. Definitely."


    It all depended on the three letters he had sent!


    The three letters had a chance of helping him turn the tables!


    ******


    Early the next morning, one of the letters was delivered to County Governor Wen.


    The Qian Prefecture was south of the Jiang Prefecture and it was similarly flourishing.


    Wave Ridge County was one of the top two counties in Qian Prefecture in terms of size. The county had a population of more than ten million and it was the prefecture that the prefecture overseer governed.


    County Governor Wen had been promoted to be Wave Ridge County''s county governor! It was a large county with a population of more than ten million, so it was helmed by a fourth-grade official. It was considered a higher grade in rank, but this was an area governed by the prefecture overseer! With him exerting pressure, County Governor Wen also felt somewhat aggrieved. After all, the rich clans in Wave Ridge County would rather curry favor with the prefecture overseer. Even as a county governor, he still needed to meet the prefecture overseer frequently to gain his favor.


    The prefecture overseer governed the entire Qian Prefecture and was a person whose words carried weight.


    All he could do was know his place.


    "Father, this is Brother Qin Yun''s letter." Wen Chong brought a letter to his father who was drinking his morning tea.


    "Qin Yun''s letter?"


    County Governor Wen took it in surprise. When he read it, his expression sunk.


    "Hmph, how dare you, Gongye Bing! He claims that Qin Liehu colluded with demons, but he was once working under me. Is he implying that I have a bad judge of character?" County Governor Wen''s expression was ugly. "Qin Yun killed Water God with Yi Xiao but Gongye Bing still dares to take action despite such meritorious deeds? He must have some insidious motive."


    "Chong''er, immediately investigate the matter and see if it''s as Qin Yun says," County Governor Wen ordered.


    "Yes." Wen Chong nodded.


    The Qian Prefecture was very close to the Jiang Prefecture. That afternoon, Wen Chong confirmed the details of the situation.


    "Alright, I''ll write a petition statement to submit to the imperial government." County Governor Wen''s eyes flashed fiercely. "To step over my head and shit on me. Do you really think I''m so easily bullied?"


    ¡­


    And that day at midnight, the other two letters respectively arrived at Jin Prefecture''s Philo-Marquis Manor and Old General Wang''s residence in the northern borders.

 88 Fluttering Water Immortal Stone

    Chapter 88: Fluttering Water Immortal Stone


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Along a mountain range was a towering impregnable pass. This was one of the various passes amid the northern borders, named Blood Peak Pass. It was also where Qin Yun had previously spent three years.


    Blood Peak Pass had been run by humans for years, so there was a massive city constructed by it!


    Within Blood Peak Pass, a manor that took up a thousand square meters was Old General Wang''s residence.


    "A letter from that kid, Qin Yun? It''s only been half a year since he left."


    Old General Wang was a stocky man with white hair. He had spent most of his life on the northern borders to fight against the demons. He opened the letter with a smile but as he read, his expression slowly turned gloomy.


    "What absurdity! The imperial government bestowed great powers on these county governors to deal with demons more efficaciously! Yet, they attack meritorious personnel. Even if Qin Yun''s father is guilty, how can a meritorious cultivator like Qin Yun be implicated? There has to be something wrong with this matter!" Old General Wang''s eyes flashed coldness. If any local official were to punish or kill a person that rendered meritorious deeds in the northern borders, they had to report it to the military.


    Therefore, local officials would not easily attack meritorious personnel¡ªmuch less a cultivator!


    Of course, the military had no right to intervene on local matters. To lose decorum with a county governor¡ªa highly ranked official¡ªthat was like a local emperor, the military needed sufficient evidence or it would come to naught.


    "With Qin Yun''s personality, he will not lie. However, I still have to investigate." Old General Wang was feeling enraged. However, his years of wartime experience had trained him not to listen to only one side of the story.


    "If my investigations come out real, hmph! I''ll definitely send a petition to the imperial government!"


    If ordinary officials were to oppress his men, Old General Wang would get the help of his friends to settle the matter.


    But this time it was the head of a county!


    In all of Jiang Prefecture, the only one that could truly overrule the county governors was the prefecture overseer! The Jiang Prefecture''s prefecture overseer was ranked as one of the highest ranking governors throughout the Great Chang empire. In terms of their ranks, Old General Wang was still significantly lower than him. All he could do was submit a petition to the imperial government.


    ¡­


    Among the three people that Qin Yun wrote to, County Governor Wen and Old General Wang were about the same rank as Gongye Bing. However, they were qualified to submit a petition to the imperial government! As for the third letter, it was sent to Little Marquis Lord. Backing him was the Philo-Marquis!


    The high standing that the Philo-Marquis had was in no way inferior to an area''s prefecture overseer. In fact, it was a slightly higher rank.


    Jin Prefecture, Zenith Black City.


    The entire Zenith Black City belonged to Philo-Marquis Manor. So were the large swaths of land surrounding it. This was because back when he was conferred the title of marquis, the entire area had been given to the Philo-Marquis as his fief!


    "Haha, a letter from Lunatic Yun. I''m surprised he still remembers me." Li You smiled as he opened the envelope and took a look.


    His expression changed the moment he read it.


    "Bullying even my brother? We had fought in the northern borders at the risk of our lives, and the moment he returns to his hometown, he gets bullied by some corrupt official!?" Li You ground his teeth. However, he himself was only the son of a marquis.


    "I''ll get Father to help."


    Li You was seething with anger and although he was always immensely reverent towards his father, he ignored all considerations for his brother-in-arms.


    He felt that as long as his father helped, the matter would be settled.


    He strode out at a fast pace.


    Soon, he came outside a large yard. There was a middle-aged man standing guard by the entrance. He was a cultivator at the Connate False Core realm.


    "Sixth Young Master," said the middle-aged man in a hushed tone. "Lord Marquis is meditating. He is not to be disturbed unless it is urgent."


    Philo-Marquis was the bedrock of the entire Philo-Marquis Manor. Li You and his mother, siblings, and the concubines of his father, as well as the clansmen of the Li family and Philo-Marquis''s disciples revolved around Philo-Marquis! The reason why Philo-Marquis Manor wielded such power was all because of Philo-Marquis.


    "I want to meet Father." Li You said immediately.


    The guardian at the entrance was somewhat astonished before he nodded. "Alright, I''ll inform him."


    "Lord Marquis."


    The guardian spoke reverentially. His voice reached inside the yard. "Sixth Young Master wishes to seek an audience."


    "Oh? It''s You''er? Let him in." A genial voice came from inside.


    Li You pushed the door and entered.


    The compound had grasslands, flowerbeds and a little lake which was about two thousand square meters. A man dressed in a black elegant robe sat cross-legged by the lake''s edge. He faced the lake and when he heard the footsteps, he stood up and smiled at the approaching Li You.


    Li You immediately turned cautious. Although he had been trained in the northern borders, he would still feel an invisible form of pressure when facing his father, no matter how genial he looked.


    He knew how terrifying his father was.


    He had seen his father in a rage. It was as though the world was angered!


    "You''er, speak your mind," Philo-Marquis said with a smile


    "This is a letter my good friend, Qin Yun, from the northern borders gave to me." Li You immediately handed over the letter.


    Philo-Marquis frowned and said, "Is he trying to gain some advantage from you?"


    Ever since Li You''s identity was exposed, there were numerous people that tried currying favor with him in a bid to obtain benefits from him.


    "No, not at all! Qin Yun isn''t such a person. He is a brother that I went through life and death with. I''m willing to put my life in his hands," Li You said immediately. "Without him, our small squad would have been dead back then."


    "Oh?"


    Philo-Marquis took the letter and calmly took a look.


    He had experienced all sorts of turmoils and numerous political battles in the imperial government.


    "Alright, you may leave," Philo-Marquis said with a nod.


    "Father, you have to help. I''m pleading with you." Li You had a pleading look on his face.


    Philo-Marquis was slightly surprised seeing this.


    His stubborn son was actually pleading with him?


    Although he did not have much time to accompany his family, spending most of his time cultivating, how could he not be concerned about his children?


    "I will verify the matter and understand the exact situation," said Philo-Marquis. "If it''s as it is written, I''ll arrange for someone to submit a petition. There is no need for me to submit one."


    If he were to submit a petition to the imperial government, it might even stir Human Emperor.


    Although Human Emperor had been sitting on the throne for three centuries, the political matters were, in fact, handled by his subordinates and high officials. Only very serious matters would be reported to Human Emperor, such as Philo-Marquis sending a petition! It would be placed directly in front of Human Emperor.


    "Alright." Li You revealed a happy look. As long as his father agreed to it, everything was settled.


    "You can leave now. Work hard too and enter the Connate realm soon." Philo-Marquis said.


    "Yes, I will take my leave."


    Li You retreated reverentially.


    Philo-Marquis watched his son leave before turning around. Facing the lake, he sat cross-legged again. Closing his eyes, he became motionless.


    ¡­


    After Li You exited his father''s cultivation grounds, he clenched his fist agitatedly. His father was most fond of his eldest brother. He was, after all, at the Connate True Core realm. Now, he was governing an area so a sixth son like him seemed to pale in comparison.


    Soon, Li You came to an elegant pavilion. On it wrote the word ''Treasure''.


    "Little You?" There was an elder lying inside the pavilion. He sat up and smiled at the approaching Li You.


    "Grandpa Wang, please take out a Fluttering Water Immortal Stone from Treasure Pavilion," said Li You.


    The elder said puzzled, "Little You, you are already at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm, right? A Fluttering Water Immortal Stone can at best save you a year or so of hard work. Is there a need for you to use it?"


    "Grandpa Wang, just take it out. Don''t bother about what I''m using it for." Li You urged.


    "Alright then. But Little You, your allowance quota is almost used up¡­" added the elder immediately.


    "Is eight hundred thousand taels of silver enough?" Li You asked. "Treat it as though I''m buying it from Treasure Pavilion! However, I''ll have to do it on credit for a few days."


    "Alright." The elder nodded with a smile, his eyes disappeared into a line.


    Soon, he entered the pavilion and took out an ornate box. Li You opened the box when it was placed in front of him. In it was a translucent stone about the size of a fist. Within it was a green watery mist that was constantly in flux. It was the extremely rare Fluttering Water Immortal Stone.


    "Alright." Li You closed the box and left.


    Soon.


    "Uncle Wei, I''ll be troubling you to run the errand. Please go to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance!" Li You found a distinguished guest of Philo-Marquis Manor. When he was usually out, Uncle Wei was in charge of his safety.


    Uncle Wei was also an in-name disciple of Philo-Marquis.


    "According to this letter, contact Qin Yun and hand the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone to him." Li You said, "If he wants to offer you a million taels of silver, don''t take it. Just take eight hundred thousand taels of silver from him. If he doesn''t have enough silver, it''s fine too."


    "It will be given to him even without the silver?" Uncle Wei was astonished.


    "Yes, give it to him." Li You nodded. "But since he said that he''s going to give a million taels of silver in his letter, he definitely has that much silver from my understanding of him. Just taking eight hundred thousands taels of silver of silver would do. I would not take advantage of a friend."


    "Alright, I''ll be going now. I''ll probably reach Grand Dominance early tomorrow morning." Uncle Wei nodded.


    Li You nodded with a smile, "Thank you, Uncle Wei."


    Soon.


    "Woosh!" Uncle Wei rode on a plume of red mist and flew out of Philo-Marquis Manor. He flew into the clouds and headed for Jiang Prefecture.


    Li You watched this scene from afar and muttered under his breath, "Lunatic Yun, this is all I can do. I hope nothing bad happens to you."

 89 Entering the Connate Realm 1/2

    Morning.


    After Qin Yun had breakfast with his family, he left the residence alone and walked on the streets.


    He used the Divine Concealment Spell and walked amid the crowds.


    "Father is imprisoned in County Governor Manor but I can''t do a thing! Gongye Bing, you have the powers vested in you by the imperial government and do everything according to imperial law. However, the evidence you have of my father colluding with demons is falsified!" Qin Yun was furious and anxious but he could not do a thing. County magistrates and governors that ruled over a region had been given special powers by the imperial government to deal with demons. The control of both political and military powers made these officials have a lot more authority.


    The destruction of families was trivial.


    "It depends on the three letters." Qin Yun thought to himself. "The hopes of me turning the tables will partly be through my flying sword and partly the three letters!"


    Just like yesterday, Qin Yun walked through the streets aimlessly.


    Suddenly, his eyes lit up as he heart began racing.


    Through his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he sensed a tiny circle engraving on a willow tree about a thousand feet away.


    "Someone from Little Marquis Lord''s side has come?" Qin Yun was excited. This was a signal he had written in the letter.


    He immediately walked over.


    Beside the willow tree was a tavern, Eastcoming Guest Tavern. There were a few customers eating breakfast on the first level of the tavern.


    When Qin Yun walked towards the tavern, a middle-aged man who was having soy milk and buns looked over. His eyes lit up and immediately finished the soy milk in his bowl. He walked over and sent a voice transmission. "Young Master Li You sent me here."


    "Little Marquis Lord?" Qin Yun responded with a voice transmission.


    Li You''s nickname had been Marquis Genius. Among the cultivators in the northern borders, he initially kept a low profile. With his young age and seemingly naivety, Qin Yun and company called him Little Monkey. They took good care of him on the battlefield but after all the perilous encounters, Marquis Genius rapidly matured. Later on, it was discovered that Marquis Genius had many talisman treasures. Many companions had been saved by the treasures he used. With all the experience and training, Marquis Genius''s Dharma spells also became more adept, allowing his strength to greatly increase.


    Gradually, people began calling him Lord, which resulted in his nickname of Little Marquis Lord.


    Little Marquis Lord was one of the backbones of the squad from the past. Qin Yun was responsible for frontal assaults and defense. At critical junctures, he would lead the escape. Little Marquis Lord had all sorts of Dao talisman and Dharma spells, so his strength was in no way inferior to Qin Yun''s. However, he was very impressed by Qin Yun. "With a simple mortal weapon, you are already this powerful. Lunatic Yun, you make me, a person who cultivates in so many Dharma spells and possesses numerous Dao talismans, ashamed."


    "You can always lead the charge with a blade or sword in hand."


    "No, I''m afraid."


    All of these were still fresh in his mind.


    "Let''s talk upstairs," said the middle-aged man.


    The duo walked up the wooden staircase and quickly entered a guest room.


    Inside the guest room were tables and chairs.


    The middle-aged man closed the door and said with a smile, "My name is Ge Wei. Last night, after receiving the instructions from Sixth Young Master, I immediately embarked and flew here overnight. I reached Grand Dominance about an hour ago. I thought I would have to wait a day or two here, and have even gotten a room. I was sitting downstairs to have my meal when you came."


    "Daoist Ge Wei, you flew here overnight?" Qin Yun immediately bowed. "Thank you, fellow Daoist."


    "There''s no need for that. If you want to thank anyone, thank Sixth Young Master." Ge Wei took out a box and placed it on the table. "This is the item he entrusted me to deliver."


    Qin Yun went forward and opened it.


    Inside the box was a stone. It was translucent and there was a green watery mist constantly in flux. It was truly an ethereal item.


    "Fluttering Water Immortal Stone." Qin Yun looked delighted as he closed the box. Immediately, he took out two thick stacks of banknotes from his Cosmic Bag. "Here is a million taels of silver worth."


    The middle-aged man took out a portion of one stack and placed it aside before keeping the rest. He said with a smile, "Sixth Young Master has instructed me to only take eight hundred thousand. I am not to take an additional tael."


    Qin Yun was taken aback before he nodded slightly.


    He knew Little Marquis Lord''s character as well. Since he was taking only eight hundred thousand, it meant that he had only paid eight hundred thousand for the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone!


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. There was no need to gripe over such matters with a brother that he had experienced life and death with.


    "I won''t be staying. I still need to return to report on the completion of the mission," said Ge Wei.


    Qin Yun immediately led him down the building.


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    In a room where Qin Yun resided in.


    The morning sunlight filtered through the paper windows and illuminated the room inside, as well as the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone.


    "Fluttering Water Immortal Stone," Qin Yun looked at the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone. "Back when Yi Xiao left, I thought I could cultivate in peace and it would be sufficient to step into the Connate realm by February. I felt that there was plenty of time but now, with Father suffering in County Governor Manor, it rends my heart. I find my cultivation just too slow."


    "Thankfully, Little Marquis Lord found a Fluttering Water Immortal Stone for me, saving me several months of arduous cultivation time. However, I''m wasting a Fluttering Water Immortal Stone just to save a few months of time. Even a prince would not need to go that far."


    A Fluttering Water Immortal Stone was not used in this manner! Its most popular use was to ensure a robust foundation for children!


    It could save an expert at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm about a year but if it was used on children that began refining their Qi, it could save them several years! With the saying ''failing to pass the gate of immortality before twenty, despair forever'', if one could save several years through the use of a Fluttering Water Immortal Stone, such as reaching the ninth stage of the Qi Refinement at the age of eleven or twelve, there would naturally be a high chance of knocking open the gate of immortality.


    A Fluttering Water Immortal Stone would drain away a large family like the Hong family of almost all its wealth! Even if it were used to fortify a child''s foundation, typical family clans could not afford to use it. Thankfully, Qin Yun had killed Water God and obtained the money that Water God had accumulated for two centuries.


    "According to my original estimates, it would have taken me two or three months to step into the Connate realm."


    "I hope that with this Fluttering Water Immortal Stone, it would help me reach the Connate realm in one go before it is completely depleted." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the bed and took a deep breath. With a wave of his hand, the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone flew into his palm.


    Qin Yun immediately controlled the immortal energy contained within the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone to enter his body. When it entered his body, he felt a refreshing coldness. Passing through his meridians, they naturally nourished his meridians, allowing them to rapidly grow and widen, filling them with more vibrancy.


    "Phew~" After the immortal energy entered his dantian, it nourished the entire dantian, making it slowly grow so as to contain even more Quintessential Essence.


    In fact, normal Qi refinement cultivation was to naturally transform one''s dantian! Just like a person''s growth, it took time and could not be rushed! It was the same with the transformation of the dantian and meridians! However, there were always fantastic items in the world such as the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit that could rejuvenate a person and even extend their lives by twenty years.


    The Fluttering Water Immortal Stone could also make one''s dantian and meridians experience astounding changes and rapidly grow. It saved about a year of hard work at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    His body constantly absorbed the immortal energy.


    Green watery mist could be seen with the naked eye in the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone. Bit by bit, it was reducing.


    Of course, the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone could only reduce the time it took for the preparations for a breakthrough. The true overcoming of bottlenecks such as knocking open the gate of immortality, the entering of the Connate realm from the Postnatal realm, or the nurturing of a soul? The Fluttering Water Immortal Stone could not provide any help to such things! It could only reduce the preparatory period.


    ¡­


    "Where''s Brother? Why isn''t he eating?" At noon, Qin An asked.


    "Your brother said that he will enter seclusive cultivation. Don''t disturb him," said Changlan.


    Qin An was a little worried. "Isn''t it a little rushed to enter seclusive cultivation at such a critical juncture? Cultivation needs to be done in an orderly fashion and cannot be rushed or one''s foundations might be weak, leading to the danger of a Qi deviation."


    Changlan said with a frown, "Alright, your brother is a cultivator. Would he know less than you? Let''s just not hinder or cause trouble for him."


    "Alright." Qin An looked at the room. "I wish everything will go smoothly for Brother''s seclusive cultivation."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s seclusion lasted from morning to afternoon, and into the evening, all the way into the deep night.


    Late at night.


    When the amount of green watery mist in the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone had about twenty to thirty percent remaining, Qin Yun opened his eyes. With a thought, he sent the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone flying from his hand and landed it inside a box beside him.


    "My dantian has reached a perfected state, so has my twelfth stage of Qi Refinement." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he was filled with anticipation. "Next, it''s time to step into the Connate realm."


    Many cultivators were left stuck at the perfected twelfth stage of Qi Refinement and never to break through.


    It was extremely demanding on one''s control of Quintessential Essence to condense the False Core for the entering of the Connate realm.


    However, Qin Yun''s soul was so strong that it had attained the state of Heaven Man Unity. He also grasped the implications of the Heavenly Dao so he was naturally confident of taking that step.


    Qin Yun gently exhaled and closed his eyes.


    "Boom!"


    His dantian was raging like a tempestuous sea as massive amounts of Quintessential Essence gushed to form a massive vortex. It covered the entire dantian and reached an apex.


    "Condense!"


    At that moment, all his psyche was augmented in the Quintessential Essence in his dantian. With his Sword Immortal Legacy as the foundation, and the Misty Rain Sword Intent as its soul, he controlled all the Quintessential Essence. Gradually, large amounts of Quintessential Essence began condensing into sword Qi within his dantian. As it contained Misty Rain Sword Intent, every sword Qi was extraordinary in quality. It was soft but sharp. As the millions of sword Qi interfaced with each other within his body, they constantly swirled within the vortex like an Yin-Yang symbol.


    In the middle of the swirl, a light dot gradually came to birth.

 90 Entering the Connate Realm 2/2

    Light bloomed as the world within the dantian experienced drastic changes.


    Countless sword Qi fused into the dot of light. Energy converted at multiple echelons. The large amount of sword Qi only made the light dot slightly bigger! With the passage of time, the light dot became bigger, a sphere that could be perceived. In just moments, the sword Qi within the dantian was converted, forming the spherical object that was slightly smaller than the sword ball.


    That was the False Core!


    If one perceived it carefully, one would realize that it was formed from countless misty energies. The interior was gorgeous and mysterious.


    "Phew!" Large amounts of spiritual energy from the heaven and earth surged into his body and was converted constantly. As he just broken through to the Connate False Core realm, the transformation of the Quintessential Essence within his body was left with a hundredth of the original. At that moment, it naturally needed replenishment from the world! The replenishment was no different from recovering Quintessential Essence.


    After four hours, his dantian reached the maximum it could bear.


    A False Core three times larger in diameter than the intrinsic sword ball floated in the middle of the dantian. A faint mist lingered around it while the intrinsic sword ball hovering beside it also received nourishment from the mist.


    ¡­


    The room was silent.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged, opened his eyes. A strange twinkle suffused his eyes and his skin had a glow. His organs, bones tendons, muscles, skin, and hair, as well as his brain, eyes, and ears had transformed. It was a metamorphic change.


    "I have finally stepped into the Connate realm. Now, I''m considered a Connate lifeform. Stories tell of how some Godfiends are born from the heaven and earth in ancient times. They were born as Connate lifeforms and were also termed Connate Godfiends." Qin Yun muttered to himself. "Now, I might be inferior to a Godfiend but I have experienced a complete rebirth."


    He got off the bed.


    He kept the remnant immortal energy within the Fluttering Water Immortal Stone into the Cosmic Bag before leaving his room.


    The horizon was lit up in a hazy blur but the moon could still be seen clearly in the sky.


    Qin Yun looked around him and even the texture on the back of an ant by the side of the yard could be seen clearly. Under his perception, the dew on the tree leaves that dripped down moved at a much slower speed. Even the strength of his tendons and bones had increased. Even a stone lion statue that weighed thousands of kilograms could be simply thrown a thousand feet away. In terms of physical strength, it was not inferior to some Connate False Core great demons that were strength-based.


    The reason was that up to that point, Qin Yun cultivated in top legacies!


    One had to know that for second or third tier sects, even if their disciples were to reach the Connate False Core realm, the purity of their Quintessential Essence was about equivalent to Qin Yun when he was at the tenth or eleventh stage of the Qi Refinement realm. Those who could condense a False Core with ordinary heritage were already very impressive; however, there was no chance for them to make the next step into the True Core realm.


    There were also differences even among top-tier cultivation sect disciples.


    When Qin Yun entered the Connate realm, every wisp of Quintessential Essence he had was infused with sword intent. It finally condensed into a False Core, which was something extremely rare even in sword immortal sects. The might of his Connate False Core''s Quintessential Essence was naturally a lot higher than those from second or third tier sects! Comparing to peers with top heritage, his Quintessential Essence was even purer.


    The transformations such Quintessential Essence brought to the body were already no trifling matter.


    As for Qin Yun, he was strongest at controlling his flying sword.


    "In the past, I was like a child. Although my realm was extremely high, with me being able to grasp Heaven Man Unity and sword intent, the strength I demonstrated remained limited."


    "Now, it''s like I''m an adult! The strength demonstrated is completely different despite being in the same realm."


    Qin Yun extended his hand.


    Sou!


    A flying sword floated in front of his fingers. Under the Connate Quintessential Essence''s infusion, it stirred the Heaven and Earth powers to rapidly condense sword kinesis runes.


    "Hum!" The entire flying sword floated in front of him and a terrifying might could be faintly sensed. Due to his Connate Quintessential Essence, the amount of Heaven and Earth powers that was attracted were dozens of times higher. Furthermore, it was even easier to control it. The speed was faster and moves could be more intricate.


    Due to the enhancement of his foundation, there was an all-around enhancement.


    "In terms of Quintessential Essence foundation, I''m not inferior to the Connate True Core realm! In terms of realms, there are few Connate True Core realm cultivators who have grasped the implications of the Heavenly Dao." Qin Yun thought to himself, "Besides, sword immortals are known to be capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They are best at the offensive. If I were to cultivate in a more powerful flying sword Dharma formulation, I might be able to save Father just with this flying sword of mine."


    "It will naturally be better if the imperial government sends somebody! If it doesn''t work, I cannot watch idly as Father dies," thought Qin Yun.


    "Now, I have to immediately choose a flying sword Dharma formulation."


    Qin Yun made use of every second.


    He had obtained a complete Sword Immortal Legacy so his mind was filled all sorts of flying sword Dharmic formulations. A flying sword Dharma formulation was the special methods for controlling a flying sword. It could be used to form a special deathblow! They were the wisdom crystallized by generations of sword immortals. Previously, Qin Yun''s Quintessential Essence was too weak. His most basic sword kinesis was done through Heaven Man Unity. He was unable to demonstrate true flying sword Dharma arts, so there was no way for him to cultivate in them.


    Now, he naturally could cultivate in them!


    "Flying sword Dharma formulations were insights originally obtained by seniors when they meditated on the mysteries of the world. All sorts of powerful flying sword kinesis attacks were created as a result." Qin Yun thought to himself. "As for me, I have grasped Misty Rain Sword Intent. To quickly cultivate a flying sword Dharma formulation to a profound level, I naturally have to choose something that is most compatible with my Misty Rain Sword Intent."


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun broke through to the Connate realm and began cultivating in his flying sword art, elsewhere, at County Governor Manor.


    Gongye Bing got out of bed and walked out his room. At the entrance, a personal guard greeted him respectfully, "Lord County Governor."


    Gongye Bing nodded and leisurely walked to the place where Qin Liehu was imprisoned. Through the window, he could see Qin Liehu lying in the corner. There were dried blood stains on his body and he wasn''t even given a blanket! Gongye Bing knew that Qin Liehu was a silver-badge constable and was strong. Although Qin Liehu had been tortured as a punishment, Gongye had ensured that he remained alive.


    "Lord County Governor, we tortured him when you left last night." A guard responsible for watching Qin Liehu said immediately. "It was also to ensure that we did not disturb you."


    Another guard added, "He''s quite a tenacious one. All he did was grunt a few times. He did not shout at all."


    Gongye Bing nodded. "Do your job well but remember, I want him alive!"


    "Yes my lord, I''ll keep that in mind. If he were to die, the both of us will be executed as well." The two guards said immediately.


    Gongye Bing glanced inside the window before walking outside.


    "That Qin Yun sure is patient. He has spied on County Governor Gongye several times and despite knowing that his father is being tormented, he still doesn''t appear." Gongye Bing sneered.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword could sense a radius of a thousand feet. When it spied on County Governor Manor, it was, in fact, releasing psyche.


    Gongye Bing was actually a Connate True Core fiend! When Qin Yun spied, how could Gongye Bing not be able to sense the invisible psyche senses, considering his strength? He had just feigned ignorance and deliberately tortured Qin Liehu for Qin Yun to see!


    "Is this a battle of patience? Hmph." Gongye Bing strolled leisurely but just as he took a few steps, his expression changed slightly. He returned to his study.


    In the study.


    He closed the door and invisible waves emanated to envelop the study.


    Gongye Bing sat down and waved his hand. An ancient bronze mirror appeared on the desk. In it, a black-robed man appeared amid distortions. The man had blood-colored brows and he was none other than Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, why are you suddenly looking for me so early this morning?" Gongye Bing frowned slightly.


    "Do you know that two petitions reached the imperial capital one after another yesterday? They were petitions against you." Nine Mountain Island Lord said solemnly.


    "Two petitions against me?" Gongye Bing was alarmed.


    "Hmph, thankfully I have some good friends and received the news early. I am telling you, for fear that you would be caught by surprise." Nine Mountain Island Lord said. He obviously knew his junior brother was helping him obtain the children''s heart blood. Otherwise, he would not have implored his friends to keep a watch on the imperial government. After all, he was a great thousand-year-old fiendish demon. His social circle was extraordinary.


    Gongye Bing said immediately, "Two petitions? Who wrote them? What were the petitions against me about?"

 91 Flying Sword Dharma Formulation

    Chapter 91: Flying Sword Dharma Formulation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Nine Mountain Island Lord said, "These two petitions were sent by the former Grand Dominance county governor, Wen Shu; while the other is the old general, Wang Yong, from Blood Peak Pass along the northern borders.


    Gongye Bing frowned slightly when he heard that.


    He could ignore the previous County Governor Wen, but even General Wang Yong from Blood Peak Pass? Even the military was intervening in the matter?


    "What did they say?" Gongye Bing calmed down.


    "About the matter regarding Qin Yun," replied Nine Mountain Island Lord. "It mentions how you framed silver-badge constable, Qin Liehu, and using this reason, you captured everyone in the Qin family. Qin Yun once rendered meritorious service in the northern borders and had done the great service of killing Water God. Despite being such a cultivator, he was implicated so easily¡­ it implies that you have ulterior motives. And by doing so, it would chill the hearts of cultivators in the northern borders."


    Gongye Bing sneered. "Implicate? Why? Does rendering meritorious service allow one to think nothing of the imperial government and the law? Furthermore, I have long announced that I''m only capturing Qin Liehu''s family into the dungeon. As for how they would be dealt with, I have already insisted that I''ll report it to the imperial government for further instruction! Why? Does a county governor who discovers evidence of demon collusion not have the right to make an arrest?"


    "You think it will be fine?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked puzzled. He was not familiar with the way the imperial government worked.


    "Don''t worry. The imperial government has given us county governors great power." Gongye Bing scoffed. "They would not question me when I''m apprehending a mere eighth-grade official! Only Qin Yun has rendered meritorious service and the old general''s letter from the northern borders makes it slightly problematic. If my guess isn''t wrong, they would require me to submit a written statement to defend my actions!"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded slightly.


    "Everything was done in accordance with the imperial government''s laws. Furthermore, there is a lot of flexibility in the matter." Gongye Bing said with a laugh. "When the imperial government passes its decree, I would submit my defense¡­ this back and forth would take at least half a month. The matter would have been settled by then."


    "I say, Junior Brother. Why are you going to so much trouble? Just secretly inform Qin Yun." Nine Mountain Island Lord said through the bronze mirror, "Let him bring the blood in exchange for his father''s life. If not, his father will be executed! I believe he would obediently hand it over."


    "Senior Brother Nine Island, that''s you being ignorant." Gongye Bing said.


    "Me? Ignorant?" Nine Mountain Island Lord frowned. "Tell me why."


    "If I were to make the blood be the criteria for the exchange of his father, I too believe he would make the exchange." Gongye Bing nodded. "But in that case, my goal is exposed as well."


    Gongye Bing sneered, "Qin Yun must be suspicious. Why would I go through all these machinations to obtain the blood? With that much blood, he will definitely leave a tiny amount with him and later investigate the blood."


    "Once it''s investigated!"


    "And it is discovered that the blood comes from the hearts of children, and considering how little blood a heart can have, how many thousands of children''s life would be needed to be sacrificed to obtain this much blood? It''s a heinous sin! To seek personal gains through such deeds is a heinous sin!" Gongye Bing said coldly, "The imperial government strongly condemns us officials from doing such heinous deeds or it might affect the light the imperial government enjoys from providence! As long as Qin Yun gets someone to inform the imperial government of this matter, it will definitely send someone to investigate. Once any of these is discovered, I''m finished!"


    "Furthermore, once the type of blood is identified, he will definitely guess that it was accumulated from the countless children that Disciple-Nephew Water God demands from Grand Dominance County every year! Disciple-Nephew Water God is your disciple and you sent three demonic slaves previously, as well as Disciple-Nephew Golden Firmament to deal with him¡­ In addition to the Motai family''s request for the blood, he will definitely guess that the mastermind is you. And if I say my motive was for the blood as well, he will probably guess that we are colluding."


    Gongye Bing shook his head. "Qin Yun isn''t dumb! I never mentioned the reason for my dealing with him. He is uncertain at the moment."


    "Once the reason is given, I''ll be inviting trouble for myself!"


    "Now, I''m acting in accordance with the imperial government''s laws. Everything is prim and proper. Even the sect backing Qin Yun does not dare make a racket." Gongye Bing said, "Although this method of mine is slower, it''s very sound."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord fell silent and nodded. "Then, I''ll be waiting for your good news."


    "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, I would like to request you to watch the imperial capital for me. I don''t have quick access to information in the imperial capital," said Gongye Bing.


    "Don''t worry." Nine Mountain Island Lord''s figure dissipated from the bronze mirror.


    ¡­


    In the hidden compound.


    Qin Yun was in a yard cultivating his flying sword Dharma formulations.


    A flying sword was shuttling back and forth through the yard, leaving behind countless streaks in midair. With the naked eye, one could see hundreds of sword shadows shuttling constantly. However, under the control of the Heaven and Earth powers, none of the disturbance escaped the yard. Hundreds of sword shadows gradually turned into wispy rain as the sword shadow wisps streaked across the sky like a dreamy mirage.


    "Whew!"


    The flying sword suddenly flitted like a willow wisp''s flutter. The sword shadows were uninhibited and sharp.


    Immediately, with a whoosh, the sounds of the flying sword tearing through space changed. It turned more forceful and crisp. It was as though willow wisps had appeared within the yard.


    A few moments later.


    The flying sword changed again, leaving only one wispy thread in the entire yard. It was the flying sword''s trajectory. It had an erratic trajectory that was hard to seek but it also gave off a lingering longing.


    "Gossamer-like Heart completed! The third level is mastered." Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    He was cultivating a sword art known as Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art. It fit the Misty Rain Sword Intent the best among all the legacy''s numerous sword arts. It was also one of the top three sword arts in the legacy.


    This sword art had a total of ten levels!


    It could also be split into four major realms. They were the Gossamer realm, the Wispy Thousand realm, the Setting Sun realm, and the Gossamer Setting Sun realm.


    First level: Wispy Rain


    Second level: Willow Wisps


    Third level: Gossamer-like Heart


    Fourth level: Three Threads


    Fifth level: Ten Threads


    Sixth level: Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart


    Seventh level: Breaking Dawn


    Eighth level: High Day


    Ninth level: Setting Sun


    Tenth level: Gossamer Setting Sun


    The first three levels belonged to the Gossamer realm.


    The fourth to the sixth level represented the second major realm of Wispy Thousand.


    As for the seventh to the ninth level, it was the third major realm of Setting Sun.


    The fourth major realm was the Gossamer Setting Sun, which was also the tenth level. According to the descriptions in the flying sword formulations, that was the attainment of the Dao, truly comprehending the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Dao.


    ¡­


    In the afternoon and evening, Qin Yun ate with his brother and mother. He spent the rest of the time practicing his swordsmanship.


    After all, he had long grasped the Misty Rain Sword Intent and over the three months, since he killed Water God, he had gained even more insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent. The Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art he cultivated in matched well with his Misty Rain Sword Intent, so his progress was extremely fast.


    At night.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    A large number of wispy gossamer interleaved in the sky. It seemed peaceful but amid it was a terrifying killing intent.


    Qin Yun''s face was slightly pale.


    "This is the sixth level of Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart. It is extremely demanding in my control of the flying sword. I''m just slightly short." Qin Yun was exhausted. "I''ll rest first."


    "Out."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword silently flew out of the compound and quickly reached the outer periphery of County Governor Manor.


    "Father!" Standing in the compound, Qin Yun''s expression turned ugly. His father, Qin Liehu, was being tormented inside a building. Qin Liehu only made muffled grunts as he clenched his teeth.


    "This old fellow sure has great tolerance."


    "Come, let him have another taste of the ''wooden shoe wrench''."


    "Alright, let''s see if he can bear with it. I refuse to believe he won''t shout." The two tormentors chuckled as cruel excitement exuded from their eyes.


    Qin Yun''s expression turned uglier.


    "Wait a little longer. Just wait a little longer. It should be in a day or two. Old General Wang and the rest would submit their petitions to the imperial government." Qin Yun''s face turned paler. "If I were to forcefully attack County Governor Manor, it would be a life-and-death struggle. Besides, it will make it harder for me to exonerated of the accusations. Would my parents and my brother and his family have to hide forever?"


    "Endure it a little longer." Qin Yun forced himself.


    And in County Governor Manor.


    Gongye Bing, who was leisurely drawing, sensed Qin Yun''s psyche perception. He only pricked up his eyebrows. But moments later, the psyche withdrew.


    "After seeing your father being tortured, how long can this filial son endure?" Gongye Bing grinned. "Tomorrow''s tortures would be harsher and crueler. If nothing comes out of it after five days, a little risk is needed. There''s no rush."


    Gongye Bing continued drawing carefreely.


    ¡­


    And at that night.


    Imperial Capital, in the Left Censor-in-Chief of the Censorate''s residence.


    "Oh?" The Left Censor-in-Chief of the Censorate, Quan Chen, was flipping through some books when his mind stirred. He looked forward.


    Buzz!


    A phantom figure condensed in front of him out of thin air. It was the figure of a smiling man dressed in a gorgeous black robe.


    "Philo-Marquis?" The Left Censor-in-Chief immediately stood up.


    "Brother Quan, there''s a little favor that I need your help with," Philo-Marquis said with a smile.


    Quan Chen said immediately, "Philo-Marquis, with our relationship, feel free to speak your mind."


    "Just some trifling matters. That son of mine kept begging me." Philo-Marquis said with a smile. "It has to do with a kid named Qin Yun in Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance."

 92 Gongye Bing and Qin Yun

    Chapter 92: Gongye Bing and Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Quan Chen investigated the matter overnight.


    Although they had a close relationship, it was better to investigate through the Censorate. Listening to only one side of the story easily led to mistakes.


    After a thorough investigation, a petition was written before daybreak. Early in the morning, the letter was sent to the imperial palace and personally handed to the inner courts. A eunuch of the inner court received it!


    The inner court''s eunuchs would peruse the matter and earmark the importance.


    The extremely important ones were directly handed to Human Emperor! Most were forwarded to the relevant government cabinet, leaving them to be handled by the cabinet elders.


    The eunuchs¡­ were without sons, so although they were loyal to His Majesty, the Human Emperor, many of them were corrupt. When dealing with the petitions, if any of the high officials they had long ties with were accused, they would secretly inform the accused ahead of time. Of course, that was all they could do. There were many eunuchs watching these petitions and they were unable to tamper with it.


    On this matter, Human Emperor turned a blind eye.


    Quan Chen was a third-grade official and was the second highest authority in the Censorate! His petition could be directly presented to Human Emperor but since the petition only pertained to a case of Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance County, there was naturally no need to alarm Human Emperor. They were directly forwarded by the eunuchs to the Political Affairs Cabinet.


    ¡­


    Early morning in Grand Dominance County, in County Governor Manor''s study.


    Gongye Bing sat in front of his desk and looked into the bronze mirror. Nine Mountain Island Lord''s figure appeared in it.


    "Senior Brother Nine Island, why are you contacting me so early in the morning? Has the imperial government sent a decree? However, if there''s a decree, it would immediately be sent to me. Or has someone accused me again?" Gongye Bing scoffed.


    "Yes, another high official has submitted a petition." Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded.


    "This Qin Yun sure has good social connections. Who is it?" asked Gongye Bing.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord said solemnly, "Left Censor-in-Chief, Quan Chen!"


    Gongye Bing stood up abruptly.


    Left Censor-in-Chief Quan Chen? What was the job of the Censorate? It supervised administrators! And the Left Censor-in-Chief was the second highest authority in the Censorate. It was a third-grade official. In the nineteen prefectures, each prefecture''s prefecture overseer was only at the third grade! After all, to be promoted even half a grade in the Great Chang empire which held the Godfiend lineage in its control was extremely difficult.


    A third-grade official was a top-notch official!


    Even the cabinet elders in the Political Affairs Cabinet, who wielded great power, were typically second or third-grade officials.


    "It''s still about Qin Yun?" asked Gongye Bing.


    "Yes." Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded.


    "That''s trouble! Trouble! The cabinet elders can ignore Wen Shu or General Wang Yong''s petitions but they have to give the Left Censor-in-Chief face! Even if they want to uphold the dignity of my authority as county governor, they will at least send a censor to investigate." Gongye Bing turned a little panicked.


    When a censor investigated an area, they were called Roving Censors.


    It was sufficient to make any local official panic.


    "What do you plan on doing now?" asked Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "The Political Affairs Cabinet''s cabinet elders deal with important events in the world and have many political responsibilities. By the time they deal with this matter, it will be a day or two later." Gongye Bing frowned. "If they were to deal with this petition today, they will immediately send a censor to investigate in secret. The Monitor Censors would take a least a day or two to arrive from the imperial capital even if they traveled here by Dharma treasures!"


    "In a day, I have to tie up the loose ends regarding this matter."


    "It has to be done before daybreak tomorrow! I want the Monitor Censor to fail at finding any mistakes when they arrive in secret." Gongye Bing''s eyes were in a frenzy.


    Gongye Bing looked at Nine Mountain Island Lord through the bronze mirror. "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, I''ve gotten into trouble because of your matter! I didn''t want to deal with Qin Yun in the first place. After all, he''s a cultivator that has rendered meritorious services. Although he only assisted in the slaying of Water God¡­ The imperial government will usually treat cultivators with great deeds respectfully."


    For ordinary wealthy merchants, it didn''t matter if they were bullied.


    As long as a county governor made sure that the commoners led stable lives, the bullying of a few wealthy merchants meant nothing. Back when it was County Governor Wen, Old General Wang and the Left Censor-in-Chief did not make any complaints.


    The Great Chang empire placed great importance on cultivators. They treated those who had rendered meritorious services for the imperial government with even greater respect. There was never a lack of demand for warriors that would risk their lives.


    "Qin Yun? You sure have great means to force me to this step. Impressive, when you meet the Monitor Censor, my days will turn for the worse. The Monitor Censor is also Left Censor-in-Chief Quan Chen''s subordinate. They will definitely lean towards you." A cold flashed suffused Gongye Bing''s eyes. "Aren''t you already hiding? Then if you keep hiding forever¡­ wouldn''t the problem be resolved?"


    "As long as I resolve this matter cleanly, everything would be fine." Gongye Bing was determined. "I cannot let you meet the Monitor Censor."


    ¡­


    That day, Qin Yun was still practicing his flying sword Dharma formulations in his compound.


    And when nightfall came, Qin Yun released his Intrinsic Flying Sword as always, sending it surreptitiously to County Governor Manor''s perimeter. Qin Yun could not feel at ease without confirming his father''s condition every day.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    Qin Liehu had the shackles around him removed. He was only chained and sitting on a stone bench. His mouth was stuffed with a cloth and beside him, Gongye Bing stood with his hands behind his back.


    When Qin Yun probed with his psyche through the Intrinsic Flying Sword, Gongye Bing said coldly, "Qin Yun."


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "I know you are probing this area." Gongye Bing sneered and said, "I''m a Connate False Core realm cultivator after all. Do you think I can''t sense you when you probe with your psyche?"


    "Are you still puzzled why I''m dealing with you?" continued Gongye Bing.


    Qin Yun was indeed puzzled.


    Qin Yun did not know Gongye Bing in the past so why would he suddenly attack him? If the reason was that of money, could someone at Gongye Bing''s level be so foolish because of a little money?


    "In two hours, in Chen Garden fifteen hundred meters away from County Governor Manor," Gongye Bing said coldly. "You and I shall meet. When the time comes, you will know why I''m dealing with you! If you do not appear in two hours¡­ I''ll kill your father. You do know that killing a silver-badge constable does not affect me in any way."


    "Two hours. I will only be waiting two hours for you." Gongye Bing sneered.


    "Alright! I''ll be in Chen Garden in two hours." Suddenly, a voice resounded in the tiny yard. Following that the psyche that proliferated the area withdrew.


    Gongye Bing continued sneering as he glanced at Qin Liehu.


    Qin Liehu''s mouth was stuffed as he struggled amidst muffled cries.


    "You will see your son in a while. He sure is a good son for him to force me to this stage," said Gongye Bing.


    "Set off, to Chen Garden." Gongye Bing said.


    "Yes." The two guards in charge of watching Qin Liehu immediately grabbed Qin Liehu and followed behind.


    ******


    Qin Yun stood inside his compound as the silver flying sword flew in front of him and hovered there.


    "He wants to meet me? Is this the standoff?" Qin Yun extended his hand and gently caressed the flying sword''s blade.


    "Alright."


    "Then, let''s see what you are up to."


    The flying sword rapidly merged into his palm, entering his dantian and formed a sword ball.


    Qin Yun turned around to take a look. His mother and brother and his family were in their respective rooms. Qin Yun could sense that his mother was laying in bed but she was not asleep! After all, with the Qin family suffering from such a disreputable accusation that Qin Liehu''s survival was still an unknown, how could his mother fall asleep?


    "I will bring Father home." Qin Yun turned around and pushed open the door to leave the yard.


    ¡­


    Casting a Divine Concealment Spell, Qin Yun walked down Grand Dominance City''s streets. At that moment, although it was in the evening, there were many pedestrians along the streets. Some of the restaurants were bustling with activity, especially the brothels. One could see a large number of dazzling lanterns from afar. The people in the city led their own lives while Qin Yun''s matter was only discussed in conversations, other than an extremely small number of worried commoners.


    After all, there were all sorts of rumors floating around in the county city. It depicted how Qin Yun had deliberately lied and that he had not dealt with Water God at all! Instead, he was a cultivator that colluded with demons.


    There were many commoners who ended up believing the rumors. Even those who did not believe the rumors also had doubts regarding Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun walked with an unperturbed mind.


    "Chen Garden."


    Looking up, there was a luxurious manor ahead of him. Above its door were the words ''Chen Garden''.


    When he reached the entrance, Qin Yun dispelled his Divine Concealment Spell.


    There was a guard waiting by the door. When he saw an ordinary pedestrian suddenly turn into Qin Yun, he was alarmed.


    "Since you are here, come on in." A voice was heard.


    "County Governor Gongye, you arrived first." Qin Yun entered through the main door while the guard beside him did not even dare breathe.

 93 Gongye Bings True Identity

    Chapter 93: Gongye Bing''s True Identity


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun entered through the main entrance and quickly came to a front yard.


    The front yard was huge. Under a large tree were a stone table and bench where Gongye Bing was sitting leisurely. On the stone table was an alcohol flask that was being heated by a tiny stove that contained embers glowing red. The nights of late autumn were already very cold.


    In front of Gongye Bing was a cup of alcohol and a plate of peanuts.


    "Come, have a seat." Gongye Bing looked at Qin Yun with a smile.


    Qin Yun frowned slightly as he scanned his surroundings. He could sense that an array formation had been set up in Chen Garden ahead of time. However, he still needed to come! Firstly, he was confident in himself and believed that the array formation set up by Gongye Bing was inferior to the one the imperial government set up for County Governor Manor. Secondly, his father''s life was on the line. He had to come.


    "County Governor Gongye, I''m here. Where''s my father?" Qin Yun walked over and calmly sat across him.


    However, Gongye Bing personally placed a cup of wine for Qin Yun. He took up the alcohol flask beside him a poured him a cup of alcohol. The alcohol was still steaming.


    "It''s been cold these few days. Have a cup of heated alcohol. It leaves you snug." Gongye Bing said with a smile.


    However, Qin Yun did not touch it.


    When he glanced at the alcohol, he realized that it appeared a little turbid.


    Gongye Bing did not mind and filled his cup and drank it carefreely. "I bought this unfiltered rice wine on the streets. It''s extremely cheap. I remember when I was young, I loved drinking such alcohol. I studied under the light and my wife would accompany me by the side, heating up the alcohol for me and pouring it." He picked up a peanut and threw it into his mouth.


    Qin Yun watched him.


    "Unfortunately, she''s dead. I killed her." Gongye Bing sighed softly and said, "Why did she have to discover my secret? Only a dead person can keep a secret."


    "I did no wrong but I frequently think of my wife." Gongye Bing placed the cup down. "Do you know why I''m telling you this?"


    Qin Yun looked coldly at him, "You killed your wife because she discovered your secret?"


    "Haha¡­"


    Gongye Bing laughed. "Let''s not talk about her! Aren''t you curious why I am attacking your Qin family? And why I''m attacking you?"


    "Yes, I''m very curious. I honestly believe that I had no feud with you and we don''t even know each other." Qin Yun said.


    "That''s right!"


    Gongye Bing nodded. "I didn''t know you in the past. The reason why I attacked you is that of a treasure."


    "A treasure?" Qin Yun frowned. "It''s indeed because of a treasure."


    As the saying went, human beings die in pursuit of wealth and birds die in pursuit of food.


    How many lives have been lost in the pursuit of wealth? Qin Yun never expected that the trouble his Qin family faced was also a result of a treasure.


    "What is it?" Qin Yun already had a guess.


    "A bottle of blood," replied Gongye Bing.


    Qin Yun''s pupils constricted as he said coldly, "So it was really because of that blood. Previously, Nine Mountain Island Lord had sent three demonic slaves to attack me. I found it somewhat odd. I attributed it to him having a strong relationship with Water God but later, even Golden Firmament came attacking me. I found it even fishier. Golden Firmament is famous for being intractable; yet, he came willingly to sneak an attack on a cultivator in a county city. When have great demons thought so highly of relationships? But from the two attacks, I guessed that it was not simply about revenge. I wasn''t sure what it was for. Later on, the Motai family came looking for me for this bottle of blood. I began surmising that Nine Mountain Island Lord had sent his subordinates for the bottle of blood."


    "That was only a guess. Now, you are also doing it for this bottle of blood." Qin Yun nodded. "From the looks of it, it''s very special."


    "Yes." Gongye Bing nodded with a smile. "Hand it over to me and your father will live. If not, your father will die immediately."


    Qin Yun said coldly, "This bottle of blood can be given to you but the exchange has to be done simultaneously. If not, I''d rather destroy it."


    Gongye Bing looked at Qin Yun and laughed.


    "Alright, it''s an agreement!" Gongye Bing clapped his hands lightly.


    Two guards walked over from the back, bringing the chained-up Qin Liehu. His mouth was still stuffed with cloth and he immediately looked anxious when he saw Qin Yun.


    "Where''s the bottle of blood?" queried Gongye Bing.


    Qin Yun took out a gray bottle from his Cosmic Bag. He had come with some guesses in mind. He had even secretly extracted minute amounts of blood to investigate it in secret.


    "Pull off the stopper," instructed Gongye Bing.


    Qin Yun nodded and pulled off the stopper.


    Gongye Bing immediately sent a wisp of his psyche to penetrate the gray bottle and sensed the obstreperous blood that seemed to form a tiny river.


    "That much blood from the hearts of children!?" Gongye Bing was secretly alarmed. "How many children''s hearts were needed? Probably twenty to thirty percent of the amount that Disciple-Nephew Water God accumulated over two centuries is here. It''s no wonder Senior Brother Nine Island wants it."


    "Yes, that''s it." Gongye Bing said with a smile. With that said, he got up and grabbed Qin Liehu.


    Qin Yun placed the stopper back into the bottle.


    "We will do the exchange simultaneously." Gongye Bing said.


    "Simultaneously," said Qin Yun as well. He was very careful. He controlled the Heaven and Earth powers to carry the gray bottle towards Gongye Bing.


    When Gongye Bing saw this, he pushed Qin Liehu forward and Qin Liehu immediately ran towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Liehu came running over, while the bottle flew away.


    Qin Yun and Gongye Bing were staring at each other.


    While Qin Yun saved his father, he did not dare take any risks.


    "Phew." When his father came close, Qin Yun''s figure flashed to his father''s side. He stretched out his hand and swiped it across, shattering the chains that bound his father. They clashed to the ground in a clamorous din.


    And on the other side, Gongye Bing extended his hand to grab the gray bottle and immediately kept it. The smile beamed even more brightly.


    "Can we leave?" Qin Yun looked at Gongye Bing. There was an array formation set up in Chen Garden. Qin Yun still wanted to send his father back so it was not the best time to deal with Gongye Bing at that moment.


    "Leave?"


    Gongye Bing sat back down on the stone bench and held his alcohol cup. He glanced at Qin Yun, "But where else can you go?"


    When his voice fell, a nether beam lit up in Chen Garden suddenly as though darkness enveloped the entirety of Chen Garden with an uproarious sound. Qin Yun''s psyche perception was also restricted within Chen Garden, preventing him from sensing anything outside.


    "Yun''er, be careful." Qin Liehu''s expression changed drastically as well.


    The seated Gongye Bing held his alcohol cup and frowned slightly, "Only when the array was activated did I realize that you have broken through to the Connate realm. I never realized that before. Have you been hiding your strength or was it a recent breakthrough?"


    "You want to attack me?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    Gongye Bing laughed indifferently, "Why did I kill my wife? It''s because a dead person is best at keeping secrets. So, it''s best all of you become dead people. Even though you have made a breakthrough, you still have to be a dead man! People that I, Gongye Bing, want to kill have never escaped once I take action."


    As he spoke, he flipped his hand and a red flower appeared at the tip of his fingers.


    "Out."


    The red flower spun out into the air and while in midair, the petals separated with a whoosh. They attacked Qin Yun from different directions with mystifying trajectories.


    These red petals streaked across the sky, ripping through the air in the process and leaving behind mirages from its blazing speed.


    "No good!" Qin Yun could sense that at the moment the red petals separated, other than the petals that dispersed, there was invisible flower pollen that spread in the air. It was rapidly approaching him in its assault.


    "Swoosh."


    Thankfully, he was maintaining Heaven Man Unity at all times. By controlling the Heaven and Earth powers, Qin Yun warded off the pollen.


    The pollen also naturally spread to the two guards that had been escorting Qin Liehu a distance away. Their bodies trembled immediately as they shouted, "Lord County Governor, save me, save¡­ me¡­" They yelled as their eyes widened before collapsing to the ground, motionless. They had been poisoned to death.


    "I already said that dead people are best at keeping secrets." Gongye Bing glanced at the two guards. "Tonight, whoever saw that bottle of blood and know that I''ve met Qin Yun shall all die."


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand as a sword beam flashed.


    In midair, Ten Threads flashed across instantly, sending the petals flying far away.


    When the seated Gongye Bing saw this, he sighed. "Sword immortals are indeed somewhat powerful."


    His body began experiencing stunning changes.


    He changed into a humanoid monster with red scaled armor. Sharp black spikes protruded out of his shoulders and a blood-colored flower petal emblem appeared on his glabella. In addition, scorching dark red mist emanated from his body. His eyes were filled with sinister evil as he looked at Qin Yun with interest. "My wife had discovered this secret of mine. Now, you two have discovered it as well."

 94 Fiendish Demon!

    Chapter 94: Fiendish Demon!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Fiendish demon? A true fiendish demon!" Qin Yun''s expression changed drastically.


    The fiendish demons that cultivators typically mentioned referred to demons that slaughtered and ate humans! Another type of fiendish demon referred to those who mastered the Fiendcelestial arts.


    The Great Chang empire was in control of a lineage of the Godfiend arts, one that stemmed from the ancient Godfiends that were born from the heaven and earth. Ancient Godfiends were local biological creatures of this world and cultivated in orthodox methods. It was in no way evil.


    And among demons, the Fiend Celestials they respected came from other realms. They were not from this world but they had left behind heritage in this world. They were exceedingly terrifying and sinister! However, such top powerful heritages were only in the hands of top factions like Cloudfiend Mountain in the world of the fiendish demons.


    "Phew~" Gongye Bing''s breaths and the aura his body emitted rapidly stirred the surroundings. As a dark red mist corroded the area, the vegetation rapidly withered and died.


    This was the true aura of a fiendish demon! It corroded and destroyed everything!


    Qin Yun controlled the Heaven and Earth powers and was about to stop it but it acted as though they were snow making contact with boiling water. They were easily corroded and warded off.


    "That''s bad." Qin Yun immediately conjured a sealing spell to protect his father. A Dharma spell cast from Connate Quintessential Essence was able to withstand but this was only the gases that came naturally from the fiendish demon''s breathing.


    "I never expected that you, a human, would surrender yourself to the fiendish demons. Furthermore, you even cultivated in true fiendish demonic Dao." Qin Yun clenched his teeth.


    "True fiendish demonic Dao? Haha¡­ In this world, what is a god and what is a fiend? They are all fake. Only strength is true." Gongye Bing laughed loudly as he spoke. "I have already set up an array around. With me controlling it, other than a Connate Golden Core realm expert, no one can rush here in a short period of time. No one can save you."


    "It''s time you die." Gongye Bing suddenly pounced over. His figure transformed into shadows as his speed made him appear like a ghost. Qin Yun could tell at a glance that his speed was inferior to Gongye Bing''s. However, he was a sword immortal who did not rely on his physical body.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Sou!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately shot out. It moved in an odd manner and in terms of speed, the Intrinsic Flying Sword was a lot faster than Gongye Bing.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!" Gongye Bing raised his hand to parry the attack. Now, his hands had turned into red-scaled claws. When they clashed with the Intrinsic Flying Sword, they emitted the colliding sounds of weapons. Both of them had ferocious might that emitted sparks. The aftershocks of the collisions reached out, sending the stone table and bench flying in crumbles. The ground was quaking.


    "This flying sword is rather fast but it''s a dead object after all. Furthermore, there''s only one sword! Seven Shadow Kill! Die!" Gongye Bing laughed loudly.


    Boom!


    His body instantly turned blurry as it transformed into seven blurry shadows that began their assault. Every shadow appeared like a real body.


    If this was the past, Qin Yun could only expend a great deal of his Quintessential Essence to produce Cyclic Sword Flash but now, Qin Yun reacted immediately by controlling his flying sword.


    "Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart, go!" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed fiercely.


    Instantly, wispy threads appeared in midair as they began connecting with one another like a gigantic spider web that enveloped the seven figures.


    Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu¡­


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword seemed to pierce through all the enemies in an instant.


    The six penetrated figures dissipated as a figure staggered, revealing Gongye Bing''s fiendish demon body.


    The sixth level of the ''Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art''¡ªWispy Thousand-knotted Heart.


    This attack could simultaneously withstand attacks and many enemies! Although this led to a decrease in its might, the flying sword''s speed was extremely fast.


    For Cyclic Sword Flash, all it could do was form a sphere while Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart was unpredictable with its erratic changes. Furthermore, it was even stronger.


    "What sort of flying sword art is this?" Gongye Bing was somewhat alarmed.


    "Why do you care what sword art is it? It''s good as long as it can kill you," responded Qin Yun coldly.


    "It looks like I have underestimated you." Gongye Bing chuckled. "Formless."


    Gongye Bing moved once again.


    This time, his body turned indistinct. It seemed translucent and his speed became faster.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Under the wispy threads in midair, Gongye Bing was like a bug that had fallen into a spider web. He was desperately charging around but every time, he would be obstructed by the Intrinsic Flying Sword. Despite being struck every time, Gongye Bing managed to block the attacks by raising his arms.


    "Phew¡­"


    The red flower suddenly flew over from the side. As it spun, more petals separated as they hurtled straight at Qin Yun.


    "You want to hold me back with a single flying sword? How are you to block my Dharma treasure?" Gongye Bing, who was phasing in and out, revealed a hideous grin.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun pulled the black flying sword from his waist and immediately, it streaked through the air.


    He had come to save his father and even though he knew that Gongye Bing had deliberately set up a trap, he had no choice but to come. He had also brought the ninth-grade Dharma treasure with him! Now with the strength he obtained from breaking through to the Connate realm, the might he demonstrated from controlling a ninth-grade Dharma treasure was also no trifling matter. The petals were wrapped and blasted to the side amid grinding sounds.


    Qin Yun even took out another mortal weapon from his Cosmic Bag and sheathed it into his scabbard.


    "What?" Gongye Bing''s expression changed when he saw the turn of events. He stopped and stood on the spot. When Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword came attacking him, he would wave his hand and strike it to the side. In terms of speed, he was not inferior to Qin Yun''s flying sword. However, his body wobbled slightly. Clearly, the threat the flying sword posed was also tough on him.


    "Good, very good." Gongye Bing''s voice was deep. "It looks like I need to crack the Dharma with overwhelming force. The easiest way is directness."


    Boom!


    His body swelled and expanded. The veins that meandered down his body bulged, exuding strength. Even the red-scaled armor began to suffuse a golden halo. More gases spewed from his breaths.


    From a normal person''s height, he had grown to more than thirty feet tall. He already matched the height of a typical building.


    "There are many Dharma formulations among the Fiendcelestial lineage in the world of fiendish demons. From the looks of it, Gongye Bing cultivates his physique?" Qin Yun used his flying sword to attack once again. Countless flying sword trajectories enveloped Gongye Bing like a spider web. "Now that his body has become gargantuan, I can instantly use my flying sword to surround him. Let''s see if he can ward off all the attacks."


    Previously, Gongye Bing''s thin and tiny body was already terrifying. He was able to block off the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s attacks with both his hands.


    But this time¡ª


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Gongye Bing did not even put up a resistance.


    He allowed Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword to stab at his towering body which was covered in red scaled armor that suffused a golden halo after transforming into numerous shadows. It resulted in a terrifying aftershock but Gongye Bing was in no way injured. Even his scaled armor did not crack! At best, a tiny white mark could be barely seen on his scaled armor.


    He stood in his spot and allowed the Intrinsic Flying Sword to attack him. The corners of his mouth suffused a sneer. "Haha, it''s a nice scratch for my itch."


    What?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Since you can''t hurt me, it''s time for you to die!" Gongye Bing took large strides forward and within two steps, his massive body arrived in front of Qin Yun amid the dark red gases. He struck down with his palm.


    By the side, Qin Liehu watched his son anxiously.


    However, Qin Yun grabbed his father''s hand and immediately retreated with his father. Furthermore, he sent his Intrinsic Flying Sword flying forward.


    This time, he did not use the ''Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art''. The sword art''s first six levels focused on speed. Towards the later levels, the speed would become faster. At the Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart level, the speed would reach an exaggerated point. However, with the pursuit of speed, it resulted in a decrease in strength. Even Gongye Bing''s scaled armor could not be cracked. Of course, it was also because his fiendish body was too powerful.


    From the seventh level onwards, it was to completely convert speed into strength!


    However, that needed the infusion of sword intent.


    Qin Yun''s had accumulated deep insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent but there were differences amid the similarities with the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Intent. As such, he was unable to grasp the seventh level all this time.


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun decided to solely rely on the Misty Rain Sword Intent as he used his deathblow.


    Boom!


    Accompanied by rolling thunder, the Intrinsic Flying Sword brought with it dazzling sparks from the friction of tearing through the air. Just like before, Gongye Bing did not block when it struck his body. However, he stumbled one step backward. A three-inch wound had been stabbed into his chest but before any blood flowed out of it, it rapidly closed and healed.


    Gongye Bing lowered his head to take a look. He smiled. "This strike was quite interesting. Its strength is already at peak Connate True Core realm. Unfortunately, they remain useless against me." As he spoke, his wound completely healed.


    "What?" Qin Yun was alarmed. His most powerful and fiercest deathblow resulted in such an outcome?

 95 Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam

    Chapter 95: Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At that instant, Qin Yun realized the predicament he was in. The first six levels of ''Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art'' that he cultivated in pursued speed. Although its strength was weakened, most cultivators and demons would not be able to fend against a flying sword with slightly weakened strength. However, Qin Yun had encountered Gongye Bing, who cultivated in a fiendish body. His body could match that of a Dharma treasure so he was perfectly countered.


    And a deathblow that relied on the Misty Rain Sword Intent could only barely stab three inches in. With Gongye Bing''s body, the physical lacerations posed too low a threat.


    "It''s best you give it up and die!" Gongye Bing guffawed as he charged straight forward.


    Boom!


    He came pressing down like a tiny mountain.


    Qin Yun led his father to retreat immediately. Furthermore, he controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword to attack once again. "If I can strike a vulnerable spot of his such as the eye or glabella, three inches of penetration would be sufficient to severely injure him."


    "Boom!" With rolling thunder and thunderous flames, the Intrinsic Flying Sword shot out with powerful momentum.


    "Peng!" Gongye Bing raised his huge palm to block his eyes. When the flying sword struck his palm, its powerful impact made Gongye Bing tremble. The scaled armor on his palm was much thicker and the flying sword barely penetrated an inch.


    "Go! Go! Go!"


    Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword with all his might.


    With the mighty presence of Gongye Bing''s fiendish body, only the Intrinsic Flying Sword could pose a minor threat. As for his other ninth-grade flying sword? It would only end up tickling Gongye Bing. It wasn''t even able to graze his skin.


    "Hahaha¡­ it''s best you stop resisting." Gongye Bing laughed loudly as he charged forward. He too was a clever person. He knew the weaknesses of his fiendish body. His large hands would protect his eyes and other vulnerable spots at all times. With him cultivating his physique, his body was reminiscent of a Dharma treasure. Every step he took was very fast. He was several times faster than Qin Yun as though he was engaging in instant transmission.


    Thankfully, Qin Yun could use the Intrinsic Flying Sword to force Gongye Bing into defending himself, allowing him to lead his father in constant retreat.


    "That''s bad. If this carries on, the moment I fail to dodge, he will come close and strike down with his palm. That ninth-grade flying sword of mine probably won''t be able to parry the attack. It''s very likely that Father and I will perish there and then." Qin Yun''s thoughts raced. "Now, he is controlling Chen Garden''s array formation so it''s impossible to escape. The only chance is for me to grasp the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art''s seventh level, Breaking Dawn."


    As Qin Yun considered his options quickly, he attempted to cast Breaking Dawn with his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art was split into four major realms. The seventh to the ninth level was the Setting Sun realm. It was a realm that needed sword intent, a perfect combination of sword intent and sword move, producing incredible might! Qin Yun had gained insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent for more than a year so his experience in it was rather sizable. Although there were differences with the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Intent, it was still somewhat similar!


    It was only the first move of the third major realm of the ''Setting Sun realm''! Logically speaking, Qin Yun could have grasped it but he had cultivated for too short a period of time in the flying sword technique. If he was given another ten days or so, he would have been able to comprehend it from arduously cultivating alone.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    He attempted, again and again, to use the move, Breaking Dawn.


    Although he failed each and every time, the flying sword''s speed sped up but its might was still insufficient.


    ¡­


    Rumble!


    Wherever Gongye Bing passed, the rockery in Chen Garden would explode. The building was crushed to smithereens, causing the entire area to turn into a ruin. Qin Yun''s situation was also turning more critical.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s eyes suddenly lit up. Everything seemed to naturally be comprehended by him.


    After all, he had been cultivating alone in seclusion. He had no one to spar with him, much less battle him in a such a threatening manner. In terms of the effects of cultivation, how could that compare with a battle with his life on the line?


    "Breaking Dawn!"


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    The thunderous sounds and the thunderous flames that the silver flying sword produced suddenly intensified! Having enhanced to a brand new level from a good foundation, the sounds the flying sword produced when tearing through the air turned much deeper. The air seemed to rush in waves in every direction. The sound resembled rolling thunder that seemed boundless. The sparks the silver flying sword generated from the friction on its surface turned denser by a hundred times. Instantly, the entire flying sword transformed into a flaming rainbow beam.


    A dazzling rainbow beam brought with it infinite and deep rolling thunder. Instantly, it penetrated Gongye Bing''s massive chest.


    Gongye Bing stood motionlessly in his spot after a jolt. He had planned on using one hand to fend against the attack but a bloody hole had appeared in his chest.


    "Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam?" Gongye Bing felt disbelief. His eyes were filled with astonished rage. "You are, you are only twenty-one¡­ Connate False Core realm?"


    The sword beams produced sonorous thunder as the sword generated thunderous flames. This meant that the flying sword art had reached a certain level of mastery. It implied that he was an extremely powerful sword immortal.


    Sword immortals at the Connate False Core realm could attain such a stage with sufficient accumulations.


    As for the Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam, it was an even higher grade!


    Even great demons would have to take it seriously. With that flying sword art, one could command the world!


    Gongye Bing found it unbelievable. In his Grand Dominance County, a young man that was only twenty-one years old had managed to grasp the legendary flying sword art of Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam despite not coming from a large family clan. It was definitely more terrifying than his fiendcelestial cultivation techniques he had arduous cultivated for several decades. Also, the weakness of cultivating a physical body was exposed here¡­


    With him being impervious to the enemy''s attacks, he naturally took the upper hand arrogantly.


    However, once the enemy could damage his body, he was in danger!


    "You are a human but you surrendered yourself to the fiendish demons. It''s best you die here!" Qin Yun showed no mercy.


    Accompanied by rolling thunder, the flying sword transformed into a rainbow beam and continued its assault.


    Gongye Bing raised his hands to block, using both his large palms to defend with all his strength. Finally, he managed to block it!


    The flying sword stabbed one of his large palms.


    Bam!


    An explosion rang as half his palm blasted apart. Gongye Bing could not help but cry out in pain while the silver flying sword that had its momentum slightly reduced circled around!


    Boom!


    Another rainbow-like sword beam.


    The Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art had four major realms. The fourth major realm was also the final level''s Gossamer Setting Sun. That was the strongest level among all the Sword Immortal Legacy Qin Yun had obtained. Once he attained that state, it would not be hard for him to be the founding master of a top cultivation sect. Even the imperial government, Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands would not dare slight him.


    As for the third major realm of the Setting Sun realm, it already made him enter the ranks of world experts. To be able to use sword intent and flying sword moves in a perfectly harmonized manner made Qin Yun part of that hallowed ranks. It was something even a powerful fiend like Gongye Bing was unable to stand up to.


    "Boom!"


    Gongye Bing''s other palm cracked from the blast as well.


    "This shouldn''t have happened. Not like this." Gongye Bing was feeling alarmed and furious while reeling from his confusion at that moment. "I should have killed him, cleaning up this mess perfectly. Now, I have failed to kill him and I''m actually dying?"


    Ignoring his official post, his life could no longer be preserved!


    "Boom!" A hole bore through his chest, penetrating through his back.


    "I will not die! I will not die!" Gongye Bing ignored Qin Yun and the dark red halo around his body expanded suddenly. He transformed into a dark red stream of light, charging straight out of Chen Garden. He even ignored Chen Garden''s array formation.


    Escape! Escape! Escape!


    Gongye Bing insisted on living on. He could not die here!


    His body was like a Dharma treasure so he escaped extremely quickly.


    However, Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword that was like a rainbow blooming was even faster as a sword beam!


    Boom! Boom!


    Two consecutive strikes bored through Gongye Bing''s body again. He was still desperately escaping. Having cultivated a demonic body, he had a tenacious life.


    As he continued escaping from Chen Garden, the array formation in it naturally dispersed after losing its controller.


    "Father, wait here for me. I absolutely cannot let Gongye Bing live on," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    A truly fiendish demon who had also infiltrated the imperial government to be an official had to be killed. If not, there would be unimaginable repercussions.


    "I''m a silver-badge constable after all. I can protect myself without any problems," replied Qin Liehu immediately.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun stepped on his black flying sword and instantly embarked on his pursuit. At the same time, he controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword to continue hunting the escaping Gongye Bing.

 96 Qin Yun Wants to Kill Me!

    Chapter 96: Qin Yun Wants to Kill Me!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The straight-line distance from Chen Garden to County Governor Manor was only slightly more than a kilometer long.


    Gongye Bing used his sanguine escape arts and transformed into a dark red stream of light that shot towards County Governor Manor. "I need to escape to County Governor Manor. Once there, the numerous array formations will protect me. Then, I''ll arrange for demons to come save me. Demons that can burrow into the ground or those that are proficient in subterranean arts will allow for me to make my surreptitious escape. My identity has been exposed. Once Qin Yun accuses me, the imperial government will definitely investigate it. There''s no way I can keep my official post."


    Boom!


    Accompanied by rolling thunder, the Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a dazzling rainbow beam and attacked once again with overwhelming might. Previously, Gongye Bing had used his hands to block but ended up having them blasted apart, so all he could do was try his best to avoid his vital spots from being hit. Boom! The flying sword streaked past Gongye Bing''s body once again. His fiendish body was immensely strong like a Dharma treasure, with tenacious vitality. Despite having several holes bored through him, he remained alive.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun, who was on his black flying sword, had a change in expression. "I can''t let him return to County Governor Manor. The array formations there are much stronger than the one in Chen Garden."


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun controlled with his mind.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately changed its assault style. This time, when it reached Gongye Bing''s body, it would streak across suddenly in an arc, striking Gongye Bing''s body ruthlessly. A flying sword''s moves were mutable, to begin with. Stabbing, slicing, brushing, smashing, swirling¡­ Only the method of stabbing had the strongest penetrative power.


    When he attacked with Breaking Dawn, the obstreperous might of the flying sword smacked Gongye Bing''s body, causing him to crash straight to the streets. Thankfully, there were few pedestrians as it was late into the night.


    Boom!


    The roads on the street sunk.


    Gongye Bing turned panicked as he used his sanguine escape art once again. He dashed frantically towards County Governor Manor and shouted, "I''m County Governor Gongye Bing. Qin Yun wants to kill me! Qin Yun wants to kill me!!!"


    His voice was imbued with Connate Quintessential Essence. The voice sounded like tumultuous thunder, spreading in every direction! Qin Yun could not isolate it despite controlling the Heaven and Earth powers as the voice''s penetrative strength was too great.


    Many of the residents in the area had already fallen asleep when their ears range with the statement: "I''m County Governor Gongye Bing! Qin Yun wants to kill me! Qin Yun wants to kill me!!!"


    His voice was loud, jolting them from their sleep.


    "What happened?"


    "The county governor? Qin Yun wants to kill the county governor?" The citizens were puzzled. Those who had yet to sleep peeped through their windows to look into the distance. All they saw was a cloud of dust in the distance.


    A beam of light was flying ahead, with a figure on a flying sword in pursuit behind.


    Boom!


    The stream of light ahead slammed to the ground once again before it flew up with great difficulty. As it flew, a beam penetrated the stream of light!


    ¡­


    "Lord County Governor!" The spot where Qin Yun and Gongye Bing were embroiled in battle was about a thousand feet away from County Governor Manor. Gongye Bing''s angry roar reached County Governor Manor and instantly, many guards scaled the manor''s walls. Many guards charged out of County Governor Manor as they faced the direction of the battle.


    "Quick, quick save Lord County Governor!"


    "Qin Yun is about to kill the county governor!"


    The guards shouted. Although they had charged out of County Governor Manor''s entrance, their speed was clearly very slow. They had deliberately hesitated in the back.


    Who didn''t know how powerful Young Master Qin was? Now, even the county governor was about to be killed. Wouldn''t they be sending themselves to their deaths if they charged over? However, if they did not rush over, they will be severely faulted for not doing a good job protecting the county governor. Therefore, despite rushing over to the battleground, they spontaneously did it slowly.


    Boom!


    Boom!


    Boom!


    Gongye Bing desperately flew but the moment he flew up, he would be struck to the ground by the flying sword.


    A deep pit was smashed open in the ground.


    During this period, the flying sword pierced his body numerous times. Even his head had been penetrated once. However, the wound on his head gradually healed. Although it left his head buzzing in pain, the severe injuries still did not threaten his life.


    "I won''t die. I won''t die! I need to return to County Governor Manor! Return to County Governor Manor!" Gongye Bing was like a starving beggar. He only had one thought¡ªreturn to County Governor Manor.


    "Pew." Finally, Qin Yun''s flying sword pierced through Gongye Bing''s body in a particular spot. His body jolted as he widened his eyes that effused a look of despair.


    "I''m finished."


    His heart was the most important core of his fiendish body. As long as it remained intact, his other injuries could gradually recover. However, with his heart penetrated, he was truly finished.


    "Boom!"


    Gongye Bing''s body collapsed to the ground. The dark red halo that suffused his body''s surface dissipated, revealing his body''s form.


    He had long returned to his human form. His clothes were tattered and he had numerous injuries.


    His body was covered in dust. He looked up at Qin Yun, who was hovering in midair with the flying sword beneath his feet. He then saw the guards slowly rushing here from afar. At that moment, many scenes suffused his mind. In his youth, his wife served him and they mutually depended on each other. They were poor but knowing that he enjoyed alcohol, she would save money to buy unfiltered alcohol, warming it for him while he studied at night.


    He had carved a career for himself by submitting himself to the fiendish demons for power and wealth. When his wife discovered his secret, he had killed her despite she being the closest person to him. Step by step, he climbed to his present position.


    "I never expected that I, Gongye Bing, would die under your hands." Gongye Bing looked at Qin Yun.


    "You deserve death for pledging allegiance to the fiendish demons." Qin Yun felt that Gongye Bing''s vitals were rapidly deteriorating. He did not feel any pity for him, only killing intent! He had seen the cruelty of fiendish demons as he roamed the world. They had fed on humans and slaughtered countless. Yet, despite being human, Gongye Bing was willing to become a fiendish demon? He was only more deserving of death.


    Yet, Gongye Bing growled softly, "You are still framing me for submitting to the fiendish demons? This will not hide the fact that you have killed a county governor. The imperial government will not spare you!"


    With one final growl, his vital aura dispersed completely.


    When Gongye Bing''s head drooped down, his body turned limp. He collapsed to the ground but following that, his body noiselessly dissipated. His body disintegrated completely, not even leaving a single drop of blood.


    In a blink of an eye, Gongye Bing''s body vanished, leaving no traces behind. Not a single hair could be found.


    "What!?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed drastically.


    He had pursued Gongye Bing firstly to rid an evil of society and secondly, he wanted his corpse! With Gongye Bing''s corpse, he could prove that Gongye Bing had cultivated in Dharmic arts of the Fiendcelestial lineage, and had willingly degenerated into a fiendish demon! But now with Gongye Bing''s corpse completely dissipating back into the world, it left Qin Yun reeling in disbelief.


    He did not know that the important seeds which the fiendish demon world planted in the imperial government were extremely few in number. All of them had been diligently nurtured by the fiendish demon factions, and used as important chess pieces. For example, other than terrifying experts at the level of Human Emperor, it was impossible to tell the true identity of these spies. Furthermore, once they died, their bodies would dissipate, leaving no evidence at all.


    "Did Qin Yun really kill the county governor?" The guards were astounded as well.


    "Is that Qin Yun?"


    "I can''t tell."


    The guards looked at Qin Yun, who was floating high in the sky on his flying sword. At that moment, Qin Yun had Quintessential Essence protecting his body as it shimmered amid its circulation. It was difficult to discern his appearance.


    "Before the county governor died, he said that Qin Yun wanted to kill him."


    "It''s been years since anyone has heard of a county governor being killed. Could Qin Yun want to silence us?"


    "If he wants to silence us, he has to kill everyone nearby, including the guards, families and the surroundings residents. There are probably ten thousand people. Young Master Qin can''t be that ruthless, right?"


    "If he doesn''t silence us, the imperial government will definitely kill him for the grave crime of murdering a county governor!"


    The guards were trembling in their hearts. They even began to retreat in fear.


    Qin Yun stood in midair with an ugly expression.


    He also knew that he was in the worst of situations! He never expected that a powerful great demon''s body would dissipate completely after dying. Although there were still fiendish auras in Chen Garden that had destroyed the vegetation, no one could prove that Gongye Bing had been there before, much less prove that it was emitted by him.


    "I killed a county governor but now, I have no way to prove that the county governor is a fiendish demon without a corpse."


    "The crime of killing a county governor is no less than slaughtering a large group of imperial soldiers."


    "The imperial government will not spare me and I can''t prove my innocence. The imperial government will definitely hunt me down." Qin Yun''s expression turned uglier.


    He looked ahead and saw people retreating. Some of them were terrified soldiers or the guards who were on County Governor Manor''s walls far away.


    Qin Yun turned around and saw the commoners that had been attracted by the commotions from the battle. Some of them were watching from afar from their own houses.


    Kill them all? Silence them?


    Qin Yun never had such a thought.


    "Escape. No matter what, I have to escape first. The further the better." Qin Yun waved his hand and kept the remaining items left behind by Gongye Bing on the ground. Following that, he stepped onto the flying sword and tore through the air with a whoosh, disappearing.


    "He''s gone. Qin Yun is leaving. He''s leaving." The guards heaved a sigh of relief.


    A group of people in the distance, as well as some commoners that resided in the area, were looking over. All of them faltered. "Did Young Master Qin really kill the county governor?"


    "That''s the county governor!"


    "That wasn''t wise of Young Master Qin! He''s too rash!"


    "He''s too young. They can do impetuous acts while being hotheaded. Killing an official is a form of rebellion. Even if an immortal cultivator were to kill a county governor, the imperial government will not let him off. He will also implicate his family. He''s too young and too rash."


    The people in the distance spoke as they watched.


    Suddenly, a voice sounded from the crowd. "If Young Master Qin were to kill us all, no one would know that he killed the county governor, right?"


    Everyone was immediately taken aback as they fell silent.


    "Young Master Qin has already escaped. He doesn''t plan on killing us. But by killing the county governor, he''s doomed. The Qin family is doomed too." An elder sighed and said, "There''s no way he can escape if the imperial government hunts him."

 97 Escape

    Chapter 97: Escape


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the ruined Chen Garden.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun swooped down from the sky on the flying sword. Qin Liehu happened to be looking up.


    "You let him escape?" Qin Liehu asked immediately when he saw his son''s unpleasant expression.


    "No, he''s dead but his corpse has completely dissipated. I can''t prove that he''s a fiendish demon!" Qin Yun said as he gritted his teeth. "The world of the fiendish demons have ruthless means indeed. These spies that infiltrate the imperial government do not even leave a trace when they die."


    Qin Liehu''s expression changed drastically. "If you can''t prove that he is a fiendish demon, and you just killed Gongye Bing¡­"


    "So it''s very problematic. We have to find Mother and the rest as fast as possible and leave Grand Dominance together." Qin Yun said immediately. He brought his father onto the Intrinsic Flying Sword. Engaging in Sword Kinesis Flight using his Intrinsic Flying Sword drained a lot lesser Quintessential Essence. At the same time, Qin Yun cast an Invisibility Spell. After entering the Connate realm, his Quintessential Essence had reached a brand new level.


    The more profound Dharma spells from the complete legacy he obtained could now be used. An Invisibility Spell, which could only be cast easily in the Connate True Core realm, was easy for Qin Yun. His Connate Quintessential Essence almost matched a Connate True Core realm cultivator after all. And during the breaks while he cultivated in the flying sword Dharma formulations of the ''Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art'', he would occasionally cultivate in a few new Dharma spells. He had mastered a few common Dharma spells like the Invisibility Spell and the Immobilizing Spell.


    "Sou!"


    He brought his father and quickly returned to the compound a few kilometers away.


    Inside the compound, his family was all in the yard. Gongye Bing''s roar had reached them a while ago.


    "Father." Qin An was delighted.


    "Liehu." Changlan was excited as well. When she saw Qin Liehu''s tattered clothes and bloodstained body, she could not help but feel pained.


    "Let''s leave quickly." Qin Liehu urged instead. "We can''t stay in Grand Dominance for long."


    "We are leaving now?" His family was taken aback.


    "Let''s go. Leave the other things behind," said Qin Yun. The Intrinsic Flying Sword that was floating beside him rapidly expanded, becoming a gargantuan sword that was twenty feet long. It was very wide as well. The flying sword was like a dreamy mirage that had aqueous streaks circulating its surface. Changlan, Sister-in-law and his nephew and niece could not help but stare at the gigantic sword. They felt awed by it.


    "Let''s set off." Qin Yun did not bother speaking any further. He immediately released his Quintessential Essence to carry everyone onto his flying sword.


    He cast his Invisibility Spell again, enveloping the entire Qin family.


    The Qin family and the gigantic flying sword was invisible to the naked eye.


    "Sou!"


    The Qin family rode on the gargantuan flying sword as they charged into the sky. They could vaguely tell the city walls that outlined Grand Dominance City beneath them! The Intrinsic Flying Sword moved quickly and soon, they reached the fringe of Grand Dominance County and flew into the clouds, where they continued on their journey.


    "We are in the clouds!"


    "It''s the clouds. We are flying!" Qin Yun''s nephew and niece remained in a state of naivety. Up to then, they did not know what it meant by their escape from death.


    Yet, Changlan said, "Yun''er, what happened? Why are we rushing to leave Grand Dominance? Back when Gongye Bing stormed our Qin family, we only hid within the city and did not flee."


    "Brother, did you really kill that county governor? We heard it a while ago," queried Qin An.


    Only when they were at a cruising height did Qin Yun say, "In fact, that Gongye Bing has long pledged allegiance to the fiendish demons. He had even cultivated into a fiendish demon himself!"


    "Gongye Bing is a fiendish demon?"


    "The county governor is a fiendish demon? And the imperial government doesn''t know of it?"


    His mother, brother, and sister-in-law were astonished.


    By the side, Qin Liehu said, "Those fiendish demons have battled with us humans since time immemorial. Humans have also failed to eradicate fiendish demons so how can we think lowly of them? So what if spies have infiltrated the human''s imperial government? In history, there have been dynasties with great demons disguised as concubines who had successfully infiltrated the imperial palace. They eventually led to drastic changes, a complete change of a dynasty."


    "Yes, fiendish demons do have unfathomable and odd means." Qin Yun nodded. "That Gongye Bing was clearly dead but his body could dissipate completely, leaving no trace of his corpse. I''m not to be faulted for killing a fiendish demon but now, I can''t prove that he is one! He even publicly announced that I was the one who killed him¡­ I won''t be able to vindicate myself for the time being."


    "Why can''t you vindicate yourself?" Qin An said anxiously. "Since Gongye Bing is a fiendish demon, shouldn''t others have seen it?"


    "The living ones that saw him transform into a fiendish demon''s body are only me and Father. Do you think that the imperial government will believe my Father''s testimony on such a huge matter of me killing a county governor? Qin Yun shook his head.


    Changlan said in a panic, "Yun''er, can''t you use your immortal Dharma spells to transmit your voice throughout the city? You can say that Gongye Bing is a fiendish demon and that you were killing him to rid an evil. Let the entire city know."


    "Fool."


    By the side, Qin Liehu barked, "Yun''er had claimed that Gongye Bing had framed us a few days ago. Putting that aside, if he were to use his voice to tell the whole city that Gongye Bing is a fiendish demon¡­ and without any proof, he will only incur the wrath of the imperial government! Would this mean that anyone who kills a county governor in the future can simply shout throughout the city that the county governor is a fiendish demon to be spared from their crime? Making baseless accusations and spreading rumors is an even greater crime!"


    "Then what do we do? How can we prove our son''s innocence?" Changlan asked worriedly


    Qin Yun was also feeling anxious as he said, "Mother, it''s not easy to prove my innocence. Since fiendish demons have their tricks, they clearly would not leave any traces. However, before Gongye Bing died, I had claimed that he was a fiendish demon! The surroundings guards and some commoners had heard it. Once the imperial government comes, such an important piece of information will be reported."


    Back then, when the guards rushed over, Qin Yun and Gongye Bing had not spoken much. The exchange would definitely be scrutinized by the imperial government.


    Qin Yun had said, "You deserve death for pledging allegiance to the fiendish demons!" And Gongye Bing had responded with, "You are still framing me for submitting to the fiendish demons¡­"


    "Without any proof, I could not shout publicly, especially matters like claiming that a county governor is a fiendish demon. It is an indirect smack in the imperial government''s face. It will only make it angrier." Qin Yun said, "Furthermore, I can''t stay in Grand Dominance because I do not know¡­ who the official in charge of this huge case would be. If it''s an official who is without discerning thought, they might give a direct order to kill me because of my murdering of the county governor."


    "If I were to stay in Grand Dominance, I would be directly killed. Even if my reputation is redeemed in the future, I would not be alive to see that day. In addition, the Qin family would be implicated. Perhaps, they will not see the day of exoneration."


    "Therefore¡­ Let''s leave Grand Dominance first. We have to escape first."


    Qin Yun said, "In order to ensure our safety, I''ll think of a way to vindicate us."


    "Yea," Qin An nodded. "Brother, you make the decisions."


    "Yun''er, everything will be decided by you," added Qin Liehu.


    Qin Yun looked at his family and felt like he was beholden to them.


    Because of him, he had implicated his family.


    "Regardless, I have to vindicate myself. I can''t let my family hide in the shadows forever." Qin Yun thought to himself. "Right, after I killed Gongye Bing, among the treasures he left behind, the items in the Cosmic Bag¡­ I have to check them thoroughly. Perhaps, there is evidence of him colluding with fiendish demons!"


    "Yun''er, where do we go now?" asked Qin Liehu.


    "To the east!" Qin Yun said, "Grand Dominance is near to the East Sea. Let''s go into the sea, into the East Sea! The sea is vast, making it easier for us to hide!"


    ¡­


    The prefecture overseer of Jiang Prefecture resided in Golden Qin County.


    Golden Qin County was also a flourishing county. Although it was slightly inferior to the East Sea County, it was a large county with a population of more than ten million people! It had been the imperial capital of a previous dynasty in history.


    The Jiang Prefecture''s prefecture overseer, Xiao Yang, was more than a hundred years old. However, he was a Connate True Core realm cultivator and looked like a middle-aged man.


    He was reading late at night but suddenly, his expression changed.


    "What?" Prefecture Overseer Xiao noticed through his Prefecture Overseer Seal that one of the County Governor Seals was without an owner.


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao flipped his hand and a large golden seal appeared in it. It represented the authority of a prefecture overseer. At that moment, there were fluctuating waves emitting from the seal.


    "Grand Dominance County''s County Governor Seal is without an owner? The County Governor Seal is linked to its owner''s life. No one can steal it." Prefecture Overseer Xiao''s expression turned ugly. "Now that Grand Dominance County''s County Governor Seal is without an owner, there can only be one possibility¡ªCounty Governor Gongye is dead!"


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao immediately walked out of his study and at the same time transmitted his voice. "Quickly, set off with me."


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Soon.


    Seven figures appeared. Two of them were Connate True Core realm cultivators and the rest were Connate False Core realm cultivators. They were the strongest among Prefecture Overseer Xiao''s personal guards.


    "Lord Prefecture Overseer." The seven were somewhat puzzled.


    "Follow me first." Prefecture Overseer Xiao waved his hand.


    Phew.


    A mist emanated as the eight of them quickly flew out of Prefecture Overseer Manor amid the clouds. They came to a mansion in Golden Qin County. A bare-chested man of stocky build had long walked barefooted out of the manor. He chuckled and said, "Lord Xiao, why are you here?"


    "Something bad has happened. Grand Dominance''s county governor is dead. Brother Peng, please bring us to Grand Dominance as fast as possible." Prefecture Overseer Xiao said immediately. The person in front of him was one of the two Connate Golden Core realm experts the imperial government had placed in Jiang Prefecture. His name was Peng Yue, and was also a cultivator in the Godfiend lineage.


    "What? Which fiendish demon dares to assassinate a county governor?" Peng Yue bellowed angrily.


    "That''s right. It has been nine years since a county governor has been assassinated. I never expected it to happen during my watch, and for it to happen in my Jiang Prefecture." Prefecture Overseer Xiao''s eyes were burning with anger. "Regardless of which great demon it is, I will make the one who dares kill the imperial government''s county governor pay a huge price."


    "Yea." The barefoot man, Peng Yue nodded as well. "Let''s leave for Grand Dominance immediately."


    As he spoke, the bare-chested man waved his hand, conjuring a ship that hovered in mid-air.


    The group boarded a large ship.


    Phew.


    The warship that was bestowed by the imperial government shot into the sky. With a Connate Golden Core realm cultivator powering it, it rushed towards Grand Dominance at a frightening speed.

 98 Apprehend Qin Yun

    Chapter 98: Apprehend Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Golden Qin County, Steadfast Mountain County, and Grand Dominance County were neighbors that formed a triangle.


    Golden Qin County was about four hundred kilometers from Grand Dominance City so under the steering of the warship by the famous Connate Golden Core realm expert, Peng Yue, they traversed through the skies and maintained an extremely fast speed. In a matter of minutes, they arrived in Grand Dominance City!


    "Swoosh."


    In midair, the warship was kept. Peng Yue and Prefecture Overseer Xiao descended amid clouds alongside each other. To their side were seven Connate realm cultivators.


    They directly landed on the streets outside County Governor Manor as there were clear traces of a battle there. Previously, Gongye Bing had been struck by the flying sword, sending him crashing into the streets that left a huge crater.


    "Lord Prefecture Overseer!" There was a large group of guards gathered outside County Governor Manor. There were also county Lieutenants, officials of Grand Dominance County.


    The incumbent County Lieutenant Wang was the second highest ranking person in Grand Dominance County. He had seen the prefecture overseer in the past so when he saw him arriving amid the cloud with so many people, he immediately felt emboldened and went forward to bow. "Greetings, Lord Prefecture Overseer."


    The other officials immediately bowed respectfully, "Greetings, Lord Prefecture Overseer."


    "What happened?" After Prefecture Overseer Xiao landed, he frowned as his eyes effused a natural bloodlust.


    Under his jurisdiction, a county governor had been assassinated. As a prefecture overseer, he would have to share a part of the blame.


    "Lord Prefecture Overseer," County Lieutenant Wang said immediately, "Not long ago, Lord County Governor Gongye Bing suddenly yelled ''I''m County Governor Gongye Bing. Qin Yun wants to kill me''. His voice spread for kilometers, attracting the attention of many commoners and residents in the vicinity. Back then, there was someone pursuing the county governor and was also controlling a flying sword to attack him. However, they had Quintessential Essence lingering around them, preventing others from identifying them."


    "Later on, the county governor landed here." County Lieutenant Wang pointed to a spot not far away. "The county governor was seriously injured and only exchanged a few words with the pursuer before dying. When he died, his body dissipated directly. Not a single strand of hair or piece of flesh could be found."


    "Oh?" Prefecture Overseer Xiao frowned slightly. "They exchanged a few words? What did they say?"


    County Lieutenant Wang said, "Back then, many guards had heard it. The commoners heard it too." With that said, he looked to a guard beside him.


    The guard answered immediately, "Lord Prefecture Overseer, we heard it very clearly. Lord County Governor first said, ''I never expected that I, Gongye Bing, would die under your hands.'' Later, the expert on the flying sword said, ''you deserve death for pledging allegiance to the fiendish demons''. Following that, Lord County Governor said, ''you are still framing me for submitting to the fiendish demons? This will not hide the fact that you have killed a county governor. The imperial government will not spare you!'' before dying and dissipating."


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao frowned as he listened. "Pledging allegiance to the fiendish demons?"


    "Lord Xiao," Peng Yue said with a voice transmission, "About a kilometer from here, there is a ruin that looks like one of the locations for the battle. I can sense remnant fiendish demon aura there. The surrounding vegetation has corroded and withered. Furthermore, to dissipate without a trace after this County Governor Gongye Bing died is one of the means that spies that infiltrate our imperial government employ. By leaving no traces after their death, it makes it difficult to investigate their origins."


    "This matter has hints of fiendish demons?" Prefecture Overseer Xiao pondered.


    A Connate True Core realm elder beside Prefecture Overseer Xiao said with a voice transmission, "Lord Prefecture Overseer, there are fiendish demon auras but it might also be possible that fiendish demons have killed the county governor! As for County Governor Gongye''s dissipating after his death, it could also be means employed by fiendish demons. As for the person engaging in Sword Kinesis Flight¡­ Since Gongye Bing mentioned Qin Yun, there is definitely a reason for him to say this name, considering how he was about to die."


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao nodded slightly.


    There were two possibilities. One, Gongye Bing had pledged allegiance to the fiendish demons and was a spy.


    The second possibility was that Qin Yun had colluded with fiendish demons to assassinate the local county governor and caused his corpse to dissipate and framing the county governor for being one of the fiendish demons. If that were the case, Gongye Bing''s death was a great injustice!


    "Why would this Qin Yun want to kill Gongye Bing?" Prefecture Overseer Xiao looked at County Lieutenant Wang. "Do they have a grudge?"


    "Just a few days ago, the county governor suddenly deployed the troops to arrest the Qin family¡­" County Lieutenant Wang began narrating the sequence of events.


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao listened attentively.


    After hearing everything, Peng Yue nodded. "Qin Yun and Gongye Bing do have a grudge. As for what really belies, it is hard to tell."


    Prefecture Overseer Xiao flipped his hand and took out a large golden seal.


    "Oh?" The moment Prefecture Overseer Xiao powered it, he frowned slightly. "Grand Dominance''s County Governor Seal is outside the city? And there are no living creatures surrounding it?"


    "Return!"


    He commanded with a thought.


    Sou!


    Soon, a golden beam of light flew from afar. When it returned to Prefecture Overseer Xiao''s side. The small seal that hovered by his side was none other than Grand Dominance''s County Governor Seal.


    Peng Yue said, "The murderer must have realized that this item would expose their location after obtaining the County Governor Seal so they threw it outside the city."


    "Hmph, if County Governor Gongye Bing has been framed, it would be a greater injustice. How can I let the murderer go scot-free?" Prefecture Overseer Xiao''s expression sank. With the large golden stamp in hand, he immediately sensed the other County Governor Seals as well as the locally stationed troops'' General Seals.


    The prefecture overseer commanded the military and political powers in the entire Jiang Prefecture.


    The various county governors, as well as the generals of the stationed troops, were kept in check! Only the Godfiend Guard sent by the imperial government to station in East Sea County did not need to heed his orders.


    "Grand Dominance''s County Governor Gongye Bing has been killed by Qin Yun. All counties and all armies are to immediately apprehend Qin Yun and his family! If Qin Yun dares to resist, he can be executed immediately!" Prefecture Overseer Xiao ordered.


    ¡­


    His orders instantly reached every county governor and general through the Prefecture Overseer Seal. His voice resounded in their minds.


    "I will now report it to the imperial government for it to make it known that the entire world is to apprehend Qin Yun by decree." Prefecture Overseer Xiao was decisive in his actions as well.


    "You need to mention the matters regarding the fiendish demons as well." Peng Yue added.


    "Don''t worry! I will report the matter factually. It would be fine if that Qin Yun allows himself to be arrested, but if he dares resist the imperial government, death is the only way out for him." Prefecture Overseer Xiao was austere. With the large golden seal in hand, text began to appear from within. It contained the information that was to be reported to the imperial government. After all, the report to the imperial government had to be described in detail.


    ******


    In the entirety of Jiang Prefecture, portraits of Qin Yun''s family were disseminated to every region under the Lord Prefecture Overseer''s orders.


    As for the decree to be made known to the entire world, the decision was left up to the imperial government. It was naturally not as fast but action had already been taken immediately within Jiang Prefecture.


    "Qin Yun murdered Grand Dominance''s county governor so if he wants to flee, he might very likely flee into the East Sea! My Adjacent Sea County is in charge of the surrounding four hundred kilometers of the coast. Everyone, I''ll trouble all other counties to immediately report the matter if Qin Yun is discovered." In one of the stationed armies in Adjacent Sea County, they immediately sent experts they had on hand. This was because the border between the entire continent and the ocean was the demarcation between humans and the Water race.


    The imperial government naturally stationed troops there. After all, despite the Dragon race reigning supreme in the East Sea, their relationship with the humans was not bad. However, the sea was too vast. There were all sorts of Water race demons, so there were also those that did not obey the Dragon race, especially the weaker Water race demons that lurked in the lower depths of the sea. They were weak and rather low in intelligence. They frequently surfaced to plunder.


    Humans naturally had to have stationed troops to frighten these Water race demons.


    The Adjacent Sea Guard was in charge of four hundred kilometers of the coastline!


    ¡­


    In the clouds, Qin Yun was bringing his family along with him on a gargantuan flying sword.


    "Thankfully, I immediately checked the items left behind by Gongye Bing and discovered the County Governor Seal! I threw it away early. If I had carried it with me¡­ the imperial government would be able to track my location with the County Governor Seal." Qin Yun felt a lingering fear. There was no other way about it. Although he had heard of the County Governor Seal, he had never seen one before. He had found a tiny seal in Gongye Bing''s relics which had the words ''Grand Dominance'' on it. He threw it away immediately in fright.


    No one was willing to snatch an item like the County Governor Seal.


    "Sigh."


    "Amid Gongye Bing''s relics, there are materials with fiendish demon aura but just these materials alone can be the spoils of war obtained when typical cultivators kill fiendish demons." Qin Yun shook his head. "I wanted to find evidence like letters but there were none. Indeed, how can these spies not be meticulous? How could they leave behind obvious evidence of their crimes?"


    "However, without evidence, how am I to vindicate myself?"


    Qin Yun frowned.


    Without evidence, the imperial government would be unable to determine if Gongye Bing was a fiendish demon. Then, he was a murderer who had assassinated a county governor. The only outcome of being arrested without a struggle was to be beheaded according to the law. Even the Qin family would be wiped out as a result.


    "Without the confidence to clear my name, I cannot be caught." Qin Yun thought to himself. "I have to escape out of here. Once I''m out in the sea, I''ll be out of danger."


    Qin Yun turned to look to his side.


    His parents were huddled together. His brother and sister-in-law were each hugging a child. His nephew and niece were snoring in their parents'' embrace, with the niece even drooling. After all, they were too young. They did not know much.


    "Regardless, I have to protect them." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    "Yun''er," Qin Liehu whispered, "Do you have the confidence escaping?"


    "If we are within the continent, the moment the imperial government gives the order, the powers that be will be mobilized and it won''t take long before we are caught from our hideout," said Qin Yun. "Only out in the sea! The coastline is very long and the stationed soldiers are basically mortal soldiers. They rely on the might of their weapons to frighten the weak Water race demons. Although they have Connate realm cultivators as well, they are relatively fewer along the coast. Furthermore, there are even fewer that are my match."


    "Don''t worry, we will be able to escape. Once we pass the coast and enter the vast ocean, we will be fine." Qin Yun revealed a smile as he assured his father.

 99 Unable to Escape

    Chapter 99: Unable to Escape


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a particular station of the Adjacent Sea Guard that was in charge of the coastline that spread four hundred kilometers, a Connate False Core realm cultivator, Daoist Golden Elegance sat cross-legged on a cloud, sensing his surroundings.


    "Oh?" Golden Elegance suddenly opened his eyes and looked in a particular direction. "Something that flies at such a speed can''t be a bird. Is it that person named Qin Yun?"


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was flying with his family on his flying sword.


    Previously, when he left Grand Dominance City, he had maintained peak speed but that resulted in rapid drainage of his Quintessential Essence. Now, Qin Yun was maintaining thirty percent of his maximum speed. In this way, the recovery of the Quintessential Essence was more than the expenditure. It also allowed the Quintessential Essence in his body to gradually increase.


    As he did not dare take the shortest distance out of the East Sea for fear of being stopped, Qin Yun deliberately took a detour at night. He circled a huge round towards the north. By the time he reached the coastline, the sky was dimly lit.


    "We will see the sea soon." Qin Yun said to his family with a smile.


    "The sea?" Qin Liehu, Changlan, Qin An and his wife looked down at the sparse clouds as they overlooked the distant sea carefully.


    "I can barely see it now. All of you will have to wait a while," said Qin Yun with a smile. Suddenly, his expression changed.


    Phew.


    Ahead of him, a biological creature that was flying slowly had suddenly accelerated. Qin Yun found the acceleration amiss as no normal bird could move that fast! The other party directly stopped in front him.


    "Qin Yun!" The golden-robed youth, Daoist Golden Elegance, was standing above a cloud. He immediately ascertained their identities when he saw Qin Yun bringing a group of people of all ages. "I never expected to chance upon you."


    "Daoist Golden Elegance?" Qin Yun''s expression sunk. He shouted, "That County Governor Gongye Bing is a spy for the fiendish demons¡­"


    "Shut up," Golden Elegance said coldly. "As ordered by Lord Prefecture Overseer, you are to be apprehended. As for whether there are any grievances, Lord Prefecture Overseer will present the justice you deserve once he finishes his investigations."


    Qin Yun was incensed.


    He could not even find the evidence that the county governor was a fiendish demon, so how could the imperial government find it? He did not have any confidence in them.


    "Then, don''t blame me for being heartless." Qin Yun said. His Intrinsic Flying Sword had already appeared in front of him. He released his Quintessential Essence to wrap his family to leave them temporarily floating in the sky.


    "You? I cultivate in the Daoist sacred land, Spirit Treasure Mountain, and am stationed in Adjacent Sea Guard to fend against the Water race demons. I urge you not to court death and give up any resistance." Golden light began to emit from behind Golden Elegance.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun did not dare hesitate. He was afraid that his obstructor would have means to contact the military, causing more cultivators to rush to him.


    "You are overestimating your abilities! Heaven Man Unity! Repression!" Golden Elegance bellowed coldly. The golden light behind him expanded greatly as golden streams of light shot out. Dozens of golden light surged out crazily as it came charging at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    Instantly, his Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into numerous trajectories at extremely fast speeds. It was as though a gigantic spider web came enclosing over.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    Under the envelopment of the spider web, the dozens of golden streams were warded off. The flying sword that Qin Yun used had managed to generate a thousand trajectories with every one of them being real! They easily held back the golden streams, revealing their true forms. They were golden needles! Other than intercepting the golden needles, one of the Intrinsic Flying Sword trajectories circled around Golden Elegance a few times.


    Golden Elegance''s expression changed drastically as his clothes tore apart completely, revealing his skin.


    The sixth level of the ''Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art''¡ªWispy Thousand-knotted Heart.


    This strike absolutely had the strength at the peak Connate True Core realm! The corresponding area attack and speed were excellent. Other than its might been slightly weaker, there were no flaws. Besides, Golden Elegance''s body was incapable of resisting a flying sword.


    "Daoist Golden Elegance, I implore you to not continue your pursuit." With a thought, Qin Yun commanded his Intrinsic Flying Sword to fly back, expand and appear under his feet.


    Phew.


    Qin Yun brought his family and rapidly left on the sword.


    Golden Elegance stood on his cloud, watching from afar. His expression changed constantly as he muttered under his breath, "There is always someone better in this world, mountains beyond mountains! I am a disciple of a sacred land and have just grasped Heaven Man Unity. I dare say that my strength matches the Connate True Core realm. I never expected to be directly defeated by that Qin Yun¡­ What an impressive sword immortal. Really. If he had not shown mercy, I would have died today."


    Looking at his clothes that had slits everywhere, each revealing his skin, Golden Elegance felt somewhat embarrassed.


    "Phew." With a thought, Quintessential Essence surged to wrap his body. With light swirling around him, it was hard to tell his appearance.


    ¡­


    And elsewhere, Qin Yun had maintained his top speed again while leading his family away. Looking down, the scenery was changing rapidly. It went from ground to sea and it was daybreak. The sea appeared dark.


    "The sea." Qin Liehu, Changlan, Qin An and his wife looked down. Momentarily, they watched in a daze. They too understood that their future days required them to live on a particular island in the sea or a tiny foreign country.


    During the flight, Qin Yun flew at his maximum speed for about fifty kilometers. It drained his Quintessential Essence rapidly so he immediately reduced his speed to thirty percent.


    He flew slowly.


    The oceanic scenery was beautiful in the beginning but it turned stale after a while.


    After flying for more than a thousand kilometers into the sea, Qin Yun suddenly saw a boat beneath them.


    "There''s a boat. Let''s go down and take a rest," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright," Qin Liehu and Changlan nodded immediately. They had not gotten a chance to rest properly while flying on the sword. They were already somewhat exhausted.


    Phew.


    While casting an Invisibility Spell, Qin Yun brought his family downwards. They landed on the deck of the large boat before revealing themselves.


    "Everyone, come out." Qin Yun stood on the deck and controlled the Heaven and Earth powers, grabbing everyone inside the merchant boat, moving them to the deck.


    "Ah, what''s happening to us?"


    "We are flying!"


    The people on the merchant boat floated out and their struggles were to no avail. Soon, the deck was filled with a great number of people.


    Qin Yun looked at them and with a thought, about two hundred people fell to the deck.


    "Which one of you is the leader of this merchant ship?" Qin Yun said indifferently as his voice resounded in everyone''s ears.


    Immediately, many sailors looked towards a youth.


    The color in the youth''s face drained somewhat as he hurriedly said, "I''m Fu Yunbo from Adjacent Sea County''s Fu family!"


    "Oh?" Qin Yun nodded. "Where are you heading on this voyage?"


    "We are going to Golden Silver Island in the East Sea," answered the youth immediately.


    Golden Silver Island was a huge island with a tiny country on it. It was one of the important trading centers in the sea.


    "Then, continue your voyage to Golden Silver Island." Qin Yun instructed. "Quickly arrange for three excellent rooms and good food. If anyone of you has any malfeasant thoughts, hmph!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Boom!


    In the distant sea beside the boat, the water in a thousand foot radius suddenly sunk.


    The people on the boat turned pale upon seeing that. If this strike had hit the boat, the entire boat would be doomed.


    "I understand, I understand." The Fu family youth said immediately.


    "This is a banknote. I will not take advantage of all of you." Qin Yun casually threw a banknote over. It was worth a thousand taels of silver.


    The Fu family youth''s eyes lit up the moment he saw it. He was not from the direct line of the Fu family. Now that he had grown up, he had been chased out after being allocated some of the family wealth. He was taking a huge risk doing trading out at sea. It would be a good thing if he earned two or three thousand taels of silver. Yet, he had a banknote worth a thousand taels of silver appear in front of him at the very moment.


    "Immortal, don''t you worry. I will definitely arrange for people to serve all of you well," said the youth.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun enveloped the entire merchant ship with his perception. There were no cultivators that had knocked open the gate of immortality so he naturally wasn''t worried.


    The wind blew at the sails.


    "Woosh~"


    The merchant boat cruised across the sea.


    Qin Yun stood at the bow of the boat as he watched the vast sea with mixed emotions.


    He still remembered the day he had separated with Yi Xiao.


    "Let''s meet again next year on 25th February at Windblast Pavilion."


    "See you there."


    The duo''s appointment was still ringing in his ears.


    Yi Xiao left on a crane and turned to look down¡­ Qin Yun stood by the riverbank and looked up¡­


    Although both of them never said a word, they could vaguely sense the existence of love.


    "It was agreed upon."


    "We would meet again on the 25th of February but now, I''m burdened by a crime and being forced to be a fugitive." Qin Yun murmured. "I really wonder when I''ll be able to return to land on this voyage. When will I be able to meet you again? But when we meet again, is it possible that everything else remains the same except the people?"


    At that moment, Qin Liehu walked over.


    "Yun''er," Qin Liehu came to his side. "People have to look ahead. No one knows what tomorrow brings. What we can do is to face everything and not collapse."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Regardless, his family still relied on him!


    "Yi Xiao, forget it. I''ll treat it as a dream," thought Qin Yun.


    Everything was over before it even began.


    "What''s that?" Qin Liehu pointed to the distant horizon.


    Qin Yun looked up and over.


    He had extraordinary vision. He could see a dazzling golden flying boat charging out from the clouds in the distant horizon. The flying boat was extremely fast as it whizzed through the air. In a blink of an eye, it covered several kilometers. Qin Yun discerned a robed elder with white hair standing on the flying boat''s bow. He was looking down at the merchant boat, right at Qin Yun, with his robes fluttering in the wind.


    "Palatial Lord Essence Charm?" Qin Yun''s expression instantly turned pale.


    It was the Connate Golden Core realm senior, Palatial Lord Essence Charm, who he had previously met. Back when the imperial government dealt with the numerous demons of Grand Dominance County, Palatial Lord Essence Charm was the one that presided over Grand Dominance''s security!


    "Yun''er?" Qin Liehu panicked. "Cultivators. Leave! Quickly leave!"


    "We have been caught up. There''s no way to escape." Qin Yun did not move because he knew that there was no way he could escape.


    Against the famous Palatial Lord Essence Charm, it was pointless escaping.


    "Father, I''m sorry to you and Mother. I''m sorry to brother and his family." Qin Yun was ashamed. By being caught, he might eventually be beheaded according to the law. It was fine with him dying but the Qin family would also be implicated.


    Qin Liehu''s body was trembling as he said with a deep voice, "Yun''er, you have already tried your best. Really. Having you as my son is my greatest pride."


    Qin Yun nodded as his eyes filled with tears.


    He turned and looked at Palatial Lord Essence Charm that had flown over. Behind Palatial Lord Essence Charm were two cultivators who were similarly powerful.


    "Senior Essence Charm." Qin Yun went forward and spoke respectfully.


    He could accept his fate of dying but he had to think of means to save his family, as well as his brother''s family.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm came with two people on a cloud. From afar, Palatial Lord Essence Charm said loudly, "Qin Yun, by order of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance, I hereby invite you to join the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. To become one of us!"

 100 Inspector Heavenly Alliance

    Chapter 100: Inspector Heavenly Alliance


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Standing on the deck, the sound of waves rang in the ears. Qin Yun was left in a daze as he watched Palatial Lord Essence Charm and the other two fly towards him.


    "Haha, it looks like our young friend, Qin Yun is still in disbelief," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm with a laugh.


    "He might think we are here to capture him." An elder with fiery-red hair said with a laugh. Another handsome and beautiful man dressed in red robes said chuckling, "I was still wondering a while ago if fellow Daoist Qin Yun would run away when he sees us!"


    "Perhaps with Brother Essence Charm, he knows that there''s no way he can escape. Lunar Magus, if we had jointly come here, fellow Daoist Qin Yun might escape on his flying sword." The red-haired elder said jokingly.


    "He might even send his flying sword to kill us immediately." Lunar Magus said.


    When Qin Yun heard that, he immediately asked, "What, what''s going on?"


    Qin Liehu was stunned too. However, he understood it to be a good thing! How could he not know how powerful the Inspector Heavenly Alliance was? The appearance of any Inspector Heavenly Ambassador would require the local county governor to cooperate without a fuss.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company landed on the deck.


    "Stop teasing our young friend, Qin Yun." Palatial Lord Essence Charm laughed. He looked at Qin Yun and said, "Qin Yun, have a look at this."


    With that said, he passed over a blue-colored scroll.


    Qin Yun accepted it in a puzzled manner and opened the scroll. By the side, Qin Liehu looked over as well.


    A series of images were stored on the scroll and it was shown in its entirety once the scroll was unfurled¡­


    "It''s Chen Garden!" Qin Liehu exclaimed.


    The series of images was from scenes at Grand Dominance City''s Chen Garden.


    Many regions of Chen Garden were in ruins. Gongye Bing''s thirty-foot-tall body was charging at Qin Yun but a dazzling rainbow beam shot out instantly. The Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam caused the surrounding atmosphere to distort like layers of waves that swept in every direction. Instantly, it penetrated the thirty-foot-tall fiendish figure''s chest, boring through a bloody hole.


    Following that, Qin Yun continued controlling his flying sword, blasting apart Gongye Bing''s palms, damaging him even further. It caused Gongye Bing''s fiendish form to finally flee in panic.


    As he fled, Qin Yun pursued him while driving the flying sword. His Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into rainbow beams that came hurtling over in a barrage of attacks.


    The flying sword slammed Gongye Bing to the ground, blasting open a large crater.


    Gongye Bing flew up again¡­ and was smashed downwards again!


    Just as he flew up, he was slammed downwards again!


    Finally, with the Intrinsic Flying Sword piercing through his vital spot, Gongye Bing''s body dissipated with a luster suffusing his body. He fell to the ground in a human form. When the personal guards and soldiers rushed over, all they saw was a dark blob of light as Gongye Bing was covered in dark red halo. By the time the dark red halo dissipated, Gongye Bing was already in human form! Therefore, the guards never saw Gongye Bing''s fiendish demon form.


    Gongye Bing finally declared that Qin Yun was the one who assassinated him, pushing the crime onto Qin Yun.


    This sequence of images had begun the moment Qin Yun began demonstrating Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam! It ended after Qin Yun fled on his flying sword after Gongye Bing''s death!


    There were only images without any sound.


    "This, this¡­" Qin Yun was excited. Evidence! Actual evidence! It proved that Gongye Bing had once transformed into a fiendish demon! It proved his innocence!


    "Haha, don''t be agitated." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a laugh. "This series of images were sent to the imperial government this morning by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance! The imperial government has already given the order to Jiang Prefecture''s Prefecture Overseer Xiao. Now, all pursuit of you in Jiang Prefecture has ended."


    Qin Liehu was extremely excited by the side.


    His family did not need to die! They had been vindicated!


    "What happened? Where did this series of images come from?" Qin Yun found it unbelievable. Back when he was battling Gongye Bing, only his father was around to witness it. There wasn''t anyone else? Was it possible that someone had secretly recorded everything without him and Gongye Bing noticing it?


    That wasn''t likely. If there was someone who could prevent the both of them from detecting them while recording the situation, the person''s strength should have been sufficient at subduing Gongye Bing.


    "No hurry. I''ll explain it to you slowly in a while." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile. "Quickly bring your family along. Follow us to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "I''ll get them." Qin Liehu was excited too as his face flushed red. He rushed into the boat''s cabin.


    Soon.


    Qin Liehu, Changlan, and Qin An with his wife and children came out. Changlan and company were still baffled, unsure of what was happening.


    "I''ll explain it to you later." Qin Liehu could not be bothered with explaining as he dragged his family out.


    "Let''s go." Palatial Lord Essence Charm waved his hand upon seeing the situation.


    Phew.


    A cloud carried the group of people that comprised of Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company, as well as Qin Yun and his family before they departed.


    The sailors on the merchant boat as well as the youth from the Fu family had been secretly watching from inside the boat''s cabin. Only then did they come out and watch as the group of people flew away.


    "Immortals." The youth''s eyes lit up as he was somewhat delighted. "They came to my boat for a while before leaving, and they even gave me a thousand taels of silver? Will that immortal come back for it?"


    ¡­


    A dazzling golden flying boat flew amid the clouds.


    On the flying boat.


    Qin Yun''s nephew and niece marveled at their surroundings with their parents. Qin Liehu and Changlan were also discussing in whispers.


    As for Qin Yun, he was with Palatial Lord Essence Charm and the other two.


    "Let me do the introductions. This is my Scenic Mountain Sect''s Elder, Daoist Yan," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. The red-haired elder nodded at Qin Yun with a chuckle from the side. "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun is impressive. Really impressive. To be able to use Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam at such a young age, as an old man, I might not be your match."


    "Fellow Daoist Yan, you are being humble," said Qin Yun immediately. "I have long heard of Daoist Yan from Scenic Mountain Sect who abhors evil. With your Heavenly Fire Talisman Arts, you have made a name for yourself."


    "Haha, just some minor tricks. Just some tricks." Daoist Yan chuckled.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm added, "This is Abbot Lunar Magus."


    The handsome man in the red robe smiled at Qin Yun.


    Lunar Magus was also a famous cultivator in the Jiang Prefecture. He looked young but he was over two hundred years old and was a cultivator at the Connate True Core realm. Furthermore, he had fused magus arts and Daoist arts together, forming a style of his own. Although he was an itinerant cultivator, his strength was in no way inferior to Daoist Yan!


    "Greetings, Abbot," said Qin Yun.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, for you to have your flying sword arts attain the Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam at such a young age, I might not be your match in a couple of years." Lunar Magus smiled. There was an astounding seductive charm to his smile. "As for me, I have cultivated for more than two hundred years. It will be hard to improve any further. Compared to you, I feel sad."


    Qin Yun''s heart palpitated slightly.


    Despite Abbot Lunar Magus being a man, his seductive charms were more intense than a woman''s. He had long heard that¡­ Abbot Lunar Magus preferred men. From the looks of it, it was not a baseless rumor.


    "We are all cultivators of Jiang Prefecture," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "From today on, we can consider it as knowing each other. In the future, we should watch out for each other and have a committed front against the fiendish demons."


    "Definitely." Daoist Yan, Abbot Lunar Magus, and Qin Yun nodded.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm said, "Qin Yun, weren''t you curious how that sequence of images was obtained? That was sourced from a cornerstone Spirit treasure of humans¡ª''Heaven-Inspecting Mirror''."


    "Heaven-Inspecting Mirror?" Qin Yun was perplexed.


    "Yea."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm nodded. "About ten thousand years ago, in order to deal with the invasions of fiendish demons and to protect our human race, the Daoist and Buddhist sects made a joint establishment of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. It takes in all human cultivators¡­ It only has one goal, to inspect the world, in order to protect humans! In this world, more than seventy percent of the truly top cultivators have joined the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. More than half of the cultivators on the imperial government''s side have joined the Inspector Heavenly Alliance."


    "The imperial government can have dynasties change but the Inspector Heavenly Alliance has existed consistently for ten thousand years," explained Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "As for the cornerstone Spirit treasure, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, is used to constantly monitor the world! Of course, the vast seas can be excluded but the entire continent is within the monitoring confines."


    "Once there are any large fluctuations that exceed a particular threshold, it will immediately be discovered by the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror!"


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm looked at Qin Yun. "As for the battle between you and Gongye Bing, the moment you demonstrated the Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam, the might it possessed had crossed the threshold of the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror! It immediately investigated carefully and from the moment you began using Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam to the moment Gongye Bing died, the entire battle scene was recorded by the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror."


    Qin Yun was enlightened. Humans actually had a cornerstone Spirit treasure like the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror! It was no wonder in the war against fiendish demons, humans always held the upper hand. Of course, the fiendish demons also had powerful means at their disposal.


    "The battle happened last night, so why would it take so long¡­" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    "Haha." Daoist Yan laughed and said, "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun is blaming us for taking too long to exonerate him."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm explained, "When the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror monitors the world, there are two cultivators in charge of watching it. They also saw the battle but all the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror can see is the situation without any sound. The two cultivators in charge of monitoring it only knew that a sword immortal had killed a fiendish demon. They had inquired from other Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s cultivators that were on duty, and even cultivators at the Connate Golden Core realm, but none of them knew you."


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    Few members of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance knew him.


    "Although they knew that it was a battle in Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world, it was late in the night. The cultivators in charge of the night shift did not dare to disturb the rest of us," explained Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "Early the next morning, the matter was reported to me and inquired about the sword immortal''s identity! When I saw it¡­ I was surprised. Wasn''t this Qin Yun? Killing Gongye Bing was doing a great deed. The imperial government had maligned a meritorious subject! I immediately reported it to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance and they immediately contacted the imperial government."


    "As for you, you had brought your family to flee into the East Sea. It took the Inspector Heavenly Alliance about five hours and quite a bit of effort to finally find you," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm.

 101 Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun

    Chapter 101: Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun conversed with Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company for about an hour before they saw a stretch of immortal palaces in the clouds a distance away.


    "We have reached the Inspector Heavenly Alliance," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm with a smile.


    "Wow."


    "Sky palace, a sky palace!" Qin Yun''s niece and nephew shouted excitedly in their parents'' arms.


    Qin Yun looked from afar and felt astounded. A palace above the clouds was shrouded amid mist. It looked like an immortal paradise.


    After storing the golden flying boat, Palatial Lord Essence Charm led everyone on a cloud to reach the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "Senior Essence Charm." Some of the young Daoists in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance were extremely weak. Most of them were at the seventh or eighth level of the Qi Refinement realm and had yet to knock open the gate of immortality. They were mainly in charge of miscellaneous chores.


    A gray-robed man who had opened the gate of immortality came over immediately and appeared very polite.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm ordered, "Yanfu."


    "Senior Essence Charm," replied Yanfu respectfully.


    "Arrange for people to take good care of the family of our young friend, Qin Yun." Palatial Lord Essence Charm instructed. Following that, he said to Qin Yun, "Qin Yun, your family can have a rest while we busy ourselves with proper matters first."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "It''s only necessary." Qin Liehu said immediately from the side. Having arrived in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance, Qin Liehu and company were left in a state of bewilderment. These were the immortal realms or sky palaces of legends!


    The gray-robed man immediately led Qin Liehu and company away genially.


    The trio led Qin Yun away. "The moment we arrived in the Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, some of the Daoist children will immediately report it. Your conferment as an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador will also be arranged. Let''s bring you to see the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror. It saved your life after all."


    "I can see it?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Haha, even these Daoist children can see it," Daoist Yan said with a laugh. "Let''s go, it''s just ahead."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was led along a path.


    Soon, they came to what seemed like an ordinary hall in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. The hall was extremely quiet and the moment they entered, they saw a gigantic bronze sphere floating in midair. On the bronze sphere, mountain ranges, great plains, lakes, and rivers could be seen¡­


    "Senior Essence Charm." The man and woman that were on duty were two Connate False Core realm cultivators. They immediately got up and spoke respectfully. They smiled when they saw Qin Yun.


    "They were the two on duty during your battle with Gongye Bing," Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile as he pointed to the two.


    Qin Yun said immediately, "Thank you, fellow Daoists."


    "There''s no need to thank us. We did not know that there was a warrant for your arrest. If we knew it earlier, we would have queried Palatial Lord Essence Charm in the middle of the night," said the female cultivator immediately.


    "It doesn''t matter if it was a little later." Qin Yun laughed. After all, his family did not suffer any losses.


    Qin Yun''s gaze landed on the gigantic bronze sphere. There were mountain ridges, plains, lakes, and rivers¡­ Having roamed the world, he knew immediately from the landforms that the surface reflected the land in its entirety. Occasionally, there would be beams of light appearing in regions on the bronze sphere. Perhaps, powerful cultivators were sparring or it was the cultivation of powerful fiendish demons¡­


    "No matter how powerful the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror is, it''s impossible to monitor everyone in the world." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said, "Only when the fluctuations reach a particular threshold would the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror pay close attention to it. Neither is the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror omnipotent. For example, in special places like Daoist sacred lands, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror is unable to monitor them."


    Qin Yun nodded, "The ones that can avoid the monitoring of the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror must be few in number. Few places in the world can prevent that. With this Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, we will be able to know the actions taken by the great fiendish demons, giving us the advantage."


    "Great fiendish demons? Many of them are old monsters that have lived for more than a thousand years. They are very crafty." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said. "Let''s go, it''s time we leave."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company led Qin Yun through the Inspector Heavenly Alliance as they introduced him to the various places.


    The Inspector Heavenly Alliance was, in fact, a joint alliance between the Daoist sects, the Buddhist sects, and the imperial government. It allowed for more centralization of forces to deal with fiendish demons!


    "There are two types of Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. One of them is the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, while the other is the Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador." Daoist Yan explained passionately to Qin Yun''s side. "To become a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, one has to be either at the Connate Golden Core realm or kill Connate Golden Core fiendish demons in the past. On the other hand, to be an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, they must be capable of killing a Connate True Core realm fiendish demon or have profound accumulations in the Connate True Core realm and be recognized by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance."


    "To be recognized by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "Cultivators at the Connate True Core realm cannot immediately become Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors?"


    "No."


    Abbot Lunar Magus explained, "There is nothing to be doubted for experts at the Connate Golden Core realm. Every one of them cultivates in the best heritages and have a deep understanding of the Heavenly Dao. Therefore, it is only natural that they become Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. However, the Connate True Core is different. Some of them might cultivate only in second-rate legacies and do not have pure and exquisite Quintessential Essence. Reaching the Connate True Core realm for them is the limit. They also lack the strength so they naturally will not be recognized. Take me for example, I''m an itinerant cultivator. I had fused magus arts and Daoist arts as one, and I was only recognized and made an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador after eight decades of being at the Connate True Core realm."


    "As for you, you are different." Daoist Yan said with a chuckle. "You killed a Connate True Core realm fiendish demon in a direct assault. There is no need to doubt your strength. As long as you are not a human traitor, you can be made an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. It all depends on whether you are agreeable to it."


    "You must be agreeable to it, right?" asked Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "Naturally."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He had seen a lot. So he naturally did not falter from killing fiendish demons.


    As the group walked, they quickly came to a majestic grand hall.


    On both sides of the hall stood some cultivators. All of them had extraordinary bearing and a few of them even matched Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "Essence Charm is here."


    "Is this Qin Yun, from your Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world?"


    "Impressive. At just twenty-one years of age, he is capable of producing the flying sword art of Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam?" One cultivator after another smiled at Qin Yun.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm exhorted him. "Stand here. In a while, you will be today''s star." With that said, he walked to have a casual chat with other old friends of his.


    Qin Yun stood in the middle and waited quietly.


    On both sides were Purple-token and Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors who were waiting to witness the ceremony.


    "The Elder arrives!" A Daoist child shouted loudly.


    From the back of the grand hall, an elder with a large beard walked out. He looked ordinary as though he was mortal. He was smiling at Qin Yun.


    "Elder." Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company all bowed respectfully.


    Qin Yun was alarmed as he immediately bowed. "Elder."


    "There''s no need for these niceties." The bearded elder chuckled.


    On first look, Qin Yun found him to be an ordinary person. However, he suddenly felt a fear-invoking power suffuse from the bearded elder''s body. The power seemed to represent the heavens or the earth.


    "Oh?" The bearded elder frowned slightly. As formless light scattered down, it quickly repressed the power that left Qin Yun feeling trepidatious. After repressing it, the bearded elder returned to being ordinary.


    "Elder." Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company were a little worried.


    "It''s fine. The punishment inflicted by the heavens is only a little troublesome. It will be over after bearing with it." The bearded elder looked at Qin Yun with a smile. "Your name is Qin Yun?"


    Qin Yun responded hurriedly, "Yes."


    "You are pretty impressive. You defended against the demon horde in the northern borders, killed that water ape in Grand Dominance, and also eliminated a fiendish demon spy." The bearded elder nodded. "You are only twenty-one and you have already grasped an impressive flying sword art such as the Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam. Impressive. I wonder, which sect are you a disciple of? Such an excellent disciple should have been known to our cultivation world long ago."


    "I am Qin Yun, an itinerant cultivator. By fortuitous luck, I obtained a Sword Immortal Legacy in my youth before I embarked on the path of cultivation," replied Qin Yun respectfully.


    There was no need to conceal his present strength anymore.


    Furthermore, there were only a few sects with Sword Immortal Legacies. It was pointless trying to conceal the matter.


    "An itinerant cultivator?"


    The other Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors that were in the grand hall watching the procession were taken aback.


    "Qin Yun, you say that you are an itinerant cultivator? You managed to independently cultivate and knock open the gate of immortality?" said a middle-aged man immediately.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    The middle-aged man said immediately, "The outer sect disciples, inner-sect disciples, inherited teachings disciples my Sword Tower selects¡­ have to go through countless experiential training and a great deal of nurturing; yet, the number of sword immortals that manage to knock open the gate of immortality before the age of twenty is pathetic! This¡­ to cultivate independently without seniors or masters helping you, you managed to knock open the gate of immortality?"


    The bearded elder laughed loudly when he heard that. "Wonderful! To cultivate to such a stage at the age of twenty-one without any masters or seniors just because you obtained a legacy is truly rare! Very rare! We, humans, have talented people every generation!"


    Qin Yun bowed slightly as he listened humbly.


    "Alright, Qin Yun. Let me ask you. Are you willing to take on the role of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, watching over a region of the world so as to protect humans!?" The bearded elder said loudly. His voice resonated in the hall as the witnessing Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors in it fell silent.


    Qin Yun said solemnly, "I, Qin Yun, am willing to watch over a region of the human world and protect humans without regrets even at the cost of a hundred deaths!"


    He already had such an understanding after experiencing the battlefields in the northern borders.


    "What a great saying! Without regrets even at the cost of a hundred deaths!" The bearded elder''s eyes lit up. "Qin Yun, Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin! Accept this token!"


    With that said, an azure-colored token flew towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun accepted it respectfully with both hands.


    The bearded elder, as well as the Inspector Heavenly Ambassador witnesses, all experienced vicissitudes of emotions when they saw the scene.

 102 Apricot Fragrance Final Chapter of Volume

    There were nineteen prefectures in the world. Cultivators also had their own matters to deal with. Some cultivated in seclusion and some roamed the mortal world. Others guided their disciples. The Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors seldom stayed in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s headquarters. For example, the Jiang Prefecture had Palatial Lord Essence Charm, Abbot Lunar Magus, Daoist Yan, as well as the newly appointed Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun. Furthermore, Palatial Lord Essence Charm had specially brought Qin Yun there.


    "Here is the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s Treasure Repository." Daoist Yan accompanied Qin Yun and introduced him to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s headquarters. "This is a very important place. If there are any treasures you need, you can buy it here! The stores of treasures here are no way inferior to the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he said immediately, "Itinerant cultivators like us have extremely few resources. With Treasure Repository, it makes it a lot more convenient."


    "It''s not that convenient either." Lunar Magus shook his head. "It''s still quite alright with ordinary treasures, but if it were truly rare treasures, there are contribution requirements. For example, one has to be credited with three thousand merits in order to use something to exchange for a fifth-grade Dharma treasure. Without the three thousand merits, Treasure Repository would not sell the fifth-grade Dharma treasure to you."


    Qin Yun understood. "This is also to encourage us to slay fiendish demons."


    "By the way, I''ll go in for a while," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Oh?" The trio beside him was astonished as they followed behind him.


    An elder sat cross-legged in Treasure Repository. He opened his eyes when he sensed the visitors. He looked at the trio that arrived and smiled at Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "This is Elder Qian." Palatial Lord Essence Charm whispered.


    "Elder Qian." Qin Yun was alarmed. An Elder? He immediately bowed. By his side, Abbot Lunar Magus and Daoist Yan had already bowed respectfully.


    "Treasure Repository has everything. You can take a look at whatever you would like to buy." Elder Qian smiled as he pointed at dozens of thick books by the side. "Those books record the treasures Treasure Repository possesses and the requirements needed to purchase the items."


    Qin Yun said, "Elder Qian, this place allows the exchange of goods. Is it possible that you help me appraise something?"


    "Ascertaining the value of items is also part of my responsibility." Elder Qian had a very mild temperament.


    Qin Yun immediately flipped his hand over, took out a gray bottle, and handed it over. "I want to know what blood is in there. And what kind of blood is it."


    Elder Qian took it and released the stopper to take a look and instantly, his expression changed.


    He had an extremely mild temperament and even the other Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors very seldom saw him angry!


    "Where did you get this blood from?" Elder Qian''s voice was low and deep. His eyes flickered with purplish lightning flashes. Instantly, his aura turning extremely horrifying as it wrapped the entire Treasure Repository.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm could withstand it but Qin Yun, Daoist Yan, and Abbot Lunar Magus felt stifled almost immediately.


    "This blood was obtained after Divine Firmament Chapter disciple, Yi Xiao and I slew Grand Dominance County''s water ape. I could not recognize what it was but Nine Mountain Island Lord had sent his subordinates to attack me. The Motai family had also previously come to purchase this blood. Later on, the local county governor, Gongye Bing, dealt with my Qin family also because of this bottle of blood," Qin Yun explained. "The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror had vindicated me so after becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, the burning question I have is to know what blood this is."


    Elder Qian nodded. "I know about your situation. I never expected it to be because of this bottle of blood. Hmph, that water ape? He made all of Grand Dominance County sacrifice their children, so it appears that the true motive was to gather the blood of children''s hearts."


    "The blood of hearts?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "This¡­ This much blood are all from hearts?"


    "Yes." Elder Qian nodded.


    By the side, Daoist Yan also sensed it somewhat. He could not help but say, "It''s almost as much as a tiny river. How many children lives were needed?"


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm added, "There are about a thousand villages in Grand Dominance County. Every year, about twenty children need to be sacrificed from each village. A county has millions of people¡­ How many children need to be sacrificed a year? What happens after two hundred years? We, cultivators, have long been wanting to kill that water ape but he possessed an ancient water ape bloodline. He could sense a five-kilometer radius around him. He would immediately enter the river the moment there is any stir. In the river, even I won''t be able to pose a threat to him."


    "Settle it yourself." Elder Qian handed it over to Qin Yun. "It''s best to resolve it cleanly and do not conspire to use it for any benefit."


    "Although some fiendish demons and some magus arts have a need for this, using it for benefits would only result in being taxed by sin." Palatial Lord Essence Charm added.


    Qin Yun took the gray bottle over and looked at it.


    The scene of him separating from his younger sister in his youth surfaced.


    "Father, Mother, Big Brother, Second Brother, save me! Save me¡­" The cries of his younger sister still sounded in his ears.


    "The blood of the hearts of countless children just like Sister." Qin Yun sensed the blood that seemed to form a river as his eyes turned moist and reddened.


    Daoist Yan suggested, "Daoist Qin, if you don''t mind, I can cast fire arts to help you dissipate this blood."


    "Thank you." Qin Yun nodded. "I''ll be troubling you."


    ¡­


    Soon.


    In the outskirts of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s headquarters, Palatial Lord Essence Charm, Qin Yun, and company stood there.


    "Phew." Daoist Yan cast his Dharma spell as instantly, fierce flames emanated the surroundings, causing a sea of fire to rise above the layer of clouds.


    Qin Yun removed the gray bottle''s stopper.


    He controlled the blood with his Quintessential Essence.


    "Go."


    Immediately, a stream of blood flew out and into the sea of fire, dissipating completely. Like a sanguine mist, it rapidly burned into nothingness amid the inferno.


    Qin Yun silently watched the endless sanguine mist burn and dissipate. By the side, Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company were silent as well.


    Fiendish demons wreaking havoc¡­ had been seen a lot by them! And the blood of the hearts of children was one of them.


    ******


    On a golden flying boat.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company brought Qin Yun''s family and departed the Inspector Heavenly Alliance and headed for Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance.


    "We are reaching home soon." Qin An and his wife teased the two children.


    "We are going back! We are going home!"


    "Going home!"


    The two children were happy.


    Qin Yun also revealed a smile. Everything was over.


    ¡­


    That day.


    Grand Dominance City bustled more than ever because, in the day, an immortal boat had brought the Qin family back and descended into Qin Manor.


    "Didn''t Young Master Qin Yun kill the county governor?"


    "According to my brother working at County Governor Manor, the county governor is really dead."


    "Why is Young Master Qin Yun''s family back again? Aren''t the officials going to do a thing?"


    "Who knows what goes on with immortals."


    The commoners broke out into a flurry of discussion.


    The commoners did not know but the top wealthy family clans in Grand Dominance had received news.


    Grand Dominance. Hong family.


    Hong Lingtong held a wooden stave as he looked at the golden flying boat descend from a high altitude. He could tell very clearly that the famous Palatial Lord Essence Charm of the Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world was on the boat. There were also Daoist Yan and Abbot Lunar Magus. They were having a casual conversation with Qin Yun.


    "Lingtong! Lingtong! The Qin family is back! They are back!" Old Master Hong rushed over. "I never expected that Gongye Bing to be a fiendish demon spy. Qin Yun killed that fiendish demon and has now been conferred the title of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. How impressive. Truly impressive! Our Grand Dominance County has also produced an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."


    "Father." Hong Lingtong smiled and said, "Brother Qin is only twenty-one. He has a bright future. Don''t you see Palatial Lord Essence Charm from the top sect, Scenic Mountain Sect, personally accompanying Qin Yun? Scenic Mountain Sect also knows that in another one or two decades, our Jiang Prefecture might even produce an additional cultivator at the Connate Golden Core realm. They naturally want to establish ties early!"


    Old Master Hong was enlightened.


    "It''s simply icing on the cake but how can it compare with providing timely assistance?" Hong Lingtong smiled as he turned to leave.


    "Lingtong, are we not preparing any gifts to visit the Qin family?" Old Master Hong said immediately.


    "There will be too many people today. We can make a visit three days later." Hong Lingtong had already entered his room as his voice sounded from inside.


    "Alright." Old Master Hong nodded. His son was meticulous in his plans, considering every conceivable possibility. He was already long accustomed to this. There was no mistake when it came to listening to Hong Lingtong!


    ******


    The Qin family began to flourish but it continued maintaining a low profile. Yet, it naturally became the best family in all of Grand Dominance County! There were some weaker itinerant cultivators that willingly deferred to the Qin family. After all, how many Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors were there in the entirety of Jiang Prefecture? Although many second-rate cultivation sects had Connate True Core realm experts as their patron, it did not mean that being at the Connate True Core realm was sufficient to become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    Now, the Qin family naturally become one of the top families in the Jiang Prefecture. It was all simply because of having one Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, several months passed.


    It was already the 25th of February.


    Early that morning, Qin Yun left home using Sword Kinesis Flight. He proceeded through the clouds and in an hour, arrived in Wusu County.


    Wusu County. Windblast Pavilion.


    Qin Yun silently landed in a spot. Windblast Pavilion was one of the rather famous scenic spots in Wusu County. It neighbored the gigantic lake, Little Cloud Lake. Many people came to visit it. There were tiny bridges and flowerbeds in the vicinity, adding to its beautiful scenery.


    "How fragrant."


    It was early spring and the apricot flowers had bloomed. A light fragrance made Qin Yun unable to resist smiling.


    He walked along a small alley and walked towards a pavilion that wasn''t far away. He felt an upheaval of emotions and did not even use his psyche to probe, afraid that he would be rude to the beauty.


    "Oh?" After walking around a bend, Qin Yun looked over. In the distant Windblast Pavilion, beside a bed of apricot flowers, a girl in a light-blue dress was standing by the lakeside alone, watching the boundless lake.


    (End of Volume)

 103 Meeting Again

    Chapter 103: Meeting Again


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun recognized the familiar figure as Yi Xiao instantly.


    He immediately walked forward and when the woman in a light-blue dress sensed him, she turned to take a look. When she saw Qin Yun, her face naturally effused a look of pleasant delight.


    "Qin Yun." Yi Xiao greeted.


    "Yi Xiao, I heard you mention that it''s your birthday today. I happen to have come across an item recently. I think it suits your well, so consider it as a birthday present." As Qin Yun spoke, he took out a decorated box and handed it to Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao accepted it with astonished anticipation. When she opened it, there was a water-blue hair clasp with aqueous streams of light. It was beautiful and exquisite with some runic patterns stored within."


    "This is a Dharma treasure made from Aqueous Cloud essence, right? There are Water-elemental Lightning Dharma runic patterns within. This is an eighth-grade Dharma treasure?" Yi Xiao said immediately. "It''s too valuable."


    "It''s your twentieth birthday." Qin Yun said with a smile. "Accept it."


    Yi Xiao stole a glance at Qin Yun and said with a smile. "Alright then. I''ll accept it. By the way, how did you know I''m twenty this year? I don''t recall telling you my age?"


    There was a natural tendency for women to be more sensitive towards their age.


    "This¡­" Qin Yun hesitated before saying, "Back then, your Uncle-Master Mingxiang, who fetched you from Grand Dominance, informed me."


    "He told you my age?" Yi Xiao was astonished. "What did he tell you behind my back?"


    "Nothing much. Just some encouragement." Qin Yun said with a smile. "He said that you will step into the Connate realm at the age of nineteen when you return. He said that I had yet to break through at the age of twenty-one and that I should work hard at cultivation."


    "Oh."


    Yi Xiao nodded but her eyes indicated her disbelief.


    Following that, Yi Xiao said, "It''s true that after my return, the sect bestowed me with great gifts because of Water God''s death! His death allowed me to rub off some of your honor. After I entered seclusive cultivation, I did break through to the Connate in one go! I heard of what happened to you when I came out of seclusion. That fiendish demon, Gongye Bing, dealt with you because of Water God?"


    "More or less. To be precise, it was because of the heart blood of children¡­" Qin Yun explained. After finishing the explanation, he said, "Thanks to the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, I was vindicated. If not, I would only be able to hide on a tiny island in the East Sea. Perhaps, I wouldn''t have been able to come here today."


    Yi Xiao''s heart palpitated as she said apologetically, "Back when I invited you to help me in the fight with Water God, I never expected such repercussions to happen."


    If the Qin family had not been eventually vindicated, there was no doubt that they would be wiped out. Yi Xiao would have definitely blamed herself.


    "This has nothing to do with you! Killing Water God was my greatest desire," said Qin Yun. "I would have risked my life to do it."


    "I see." Yi Xiao nodded. "Qin Yun, I also know that as a legendary sword immortal that happens only once every few centuries, your name will rapidly be made known throughout the world. Back then, you killed a Connate True Core fiendish demon in a head-on assault in less than half a year after you killed Water God. You became an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador as a result! Now, anyone under the heavens with a reliable news source has heard of a twenty-one-year-old sword immortal itinerant cultivator who became an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. That is the life goal for most cultivators."


    "Life goal?" Qin Yun was stunned.


    "Isn''t that so? The Connate Golden Core realm is too distant. And to become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, even among Connate True Core realm cultivators¡­ only a portion of them has a chance of succeeding!" Yi Xiao said, "This goal is only slightly lower than reaching the Connate Golden Core realm. The ultimate goal many cultivators from second-rate tier cultivation sects have is to become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile and said, "Yi Xiao, as a disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter, you are probably not that far from becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."


    Yi Xiao turned to look at Little Cloud Lake''s water and whispered, "But cultivation has never been my goal."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    "Qin Yun, tell me. Why did my mother abandon my father and me at an age before my first memories¡­ And why would my father abandon me when I was nine¡­" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun with moistened eyes. "Why did they do that? What wrong did I do?"


    "I thought that if I were to work hard at cultivation, my father will definitely think differently of me. I diligently cultivated and even in the Divine Firmament Chapter, a Daoist sacred land, I was the most excellent one. I cultivated in the Five Internal Organs and Five Elements with each step being excruciatingly painful. Finally, I mastered the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma. It is the best foundation in the Lightning Dharma which paves the only way towards cultivating the best Lightning Dharma¡ªDivine Firmament Lightning Dharma."


    "The time I took to master Five-elemental Lightning Dharma was shorter than Eldest Senior Brother." Yi Xiao shook her head. "Even the Yi family elders think highly of me but my father has never come to see me even once."


    Qin Yun listened quietly by her side. Yi Xiao was confiding in him because she trusted him.


    "On my ninth birthday, we came here. He even bought me candied fruit and many delicious foods. But with a turn of his head, he abandoned me and I never managed to find him." Yi Xiao murmured, "Although I have heard of him appearing elsewhere, I have never seen him. Every year, I would come here to wait but it was useless. My father has never appeared."


    After a short chat, Yi Xiao''s eyes drifted toward Little Cloud Lake in silence. Qin Yun stayed by her side and maintained the silence.


    ¡­


    An Elder from the First Great Sect, Tu Chen, was walking toward the lake on a tiny path from afar. When he suddenly saw Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, his expression changed slightly.


    "Oh?" Tu Chen looked carefully and noticed the duo sitting on a boulder beside the lake. They appeared intimate.


    "Who is that sitting so close to Fairy Yi Xiao?" Tu Chen''s expression turned ugly. After a moment''s thought, he walked over immediately.


    And on the other side.


    Although Yi Xiao was constantly peering at the lake, Qin Yun was focused on his surroundings. He saw the middle-aged man, Tu Chen, walking over.


    Tu Chen smiled at Qin Yun and beckoned his hand over slightly.


    "Is there something?" Qin Yun was a little puzzled and stood up to walk over.


    "Friend," Tu Chen said with a smile, "You look extraordinary in bearing and you are also a cultivator. Do you know our fairy?"


    Qin Yun was slightly taken aback and nodded. "Yes, who are you? A disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter?"


    "Not really," said Tu Chen immediately. "I''m only a servant. I receive orders from the Divine Firmament Chapter''s Eldest Senior Brother to serve our fairy. Do you know who our Divine Firmament Chapter''s Eldest Senior Brother is?"


    Qin Yun looked at him.


    "My Divine Firmament Chapter''s Eldest Senior Brother is named Xue Yong. He had long entered the Connate True Core realm and have been imparted the number one Lightning Dharma in the world, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma." Tu Chen said proudly. "In the future, he has a high chance of reaching the Connate Golden Core realm."


    "What are you getting at?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    Tu Chen said with a smile, "Everyone in Divine Firmament Chapter knows that Eldest Senior Brother with our fairy is a perfect match made in heaven. If you continue pestering our fairy, I''m afraid Eldest Senior Brother will be unhappy."


    "Tu Chen!" A cold voice rang.


    Yi Xiao walked over and stared at him coldly. "Eldest Senior Brother and I are only fellow disciples and nothing more. Besides, no matter what, it''s not your place as a First Great Sect disciple to wag your tongue!"


    "I, I''m only¡­" Tu Chen flinched with an ugly expression.


    "From now on, I do not want to see you again. It''s best you return to the First Great Sect. I do not need your service any longer." Yi Xiao said coldly.


    "My First Great Sect is a local sect of the Jiang Prefecture. Fairy, serving you is only necessary." Tu Chen said hurriedly. After entering the Connate realm, Yi Xiao''s status was naturally elevated. Even the First Great Sect''s sect master did not dare slight her.


    Qin Yun spoke. "First Great Sect? Since you are a cultivator from a local sect, you should have heard of my name."


    Tu Chen was taken aback.


    "My name is Qin Yun, an itinerant cultivator of Grand Dominance." Qin Yun looked at him.


    Tu Chen''s expression changed.


    Qin Yun?


    In the entire Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world, other than a few Connate Golden Core realm cultivators, the remaining powerful ones were the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors.


    The First Great Sect was only a second-tier sect and the entire sect only had one cultivator at the Connate True Core realm¡ªFirst Great Sect''s sect master! In his advanced age, if he were to die and without the rising of a new Connate True Core realm cultivator, the First Great Sect would likely deteriorate even further. How could they be compared to a young sword immortal that had killed a Connate True Core fiendish demon at the age of twenty-one?


    "How impressive of a First Great Sect disciple to actually come minding my business." Qin Yun said casually. "Your First Great Sect''s sect master had visited Grand Dominance a few days ago and had quite an enjoyable conversation with me! Perhaps I need to ask him how he disciplines his disciples?"


    "Senior¡­ Senior Qin¡­" Tu Chen was at a loss for words.


    "Also, don''t use whatever eldest senior brother''s name to repress me. It''s useless." Qin Yun said, "You may leave."


    "Yes, I''ll make my move right now." Tu Chen did not dare continue blabbering and turned to leave.


    Tu Chen heaved a sigh of relief when he was a distance away.


    "Mortals suffer when gods fight. Is that man actually Qin Yun? Sect Master said that Qin Yun is an existence that has the highest chance of reaching the Connate Golden Core realm in all of Jiang Prefecture." Tu Chen thought to himself. "However, Eldest Senior Brother had also instructed others to command me. What do I do? Forget it, forget it. I''ll just send all the information to Eldest Senior Brother! I''ll ignore everything else. I''ll forget about taking sides for benefits or it might rob me of my life!"


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao smiled as she glanced at Qin Yun. "You were pretty aggressive."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "The First Great Sect''s sect master has pretty good relations with me. So it''s not good if I bullied him. I just reprimanded him a little."


    "Elder Sister! Sister!" Suddenly a voice sounded from afar.


    Qin Yun turned to look and far away, a woman disguised in men''s attire was rushing towards Yi Xiao. An elder followed beside her.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something and immediately activated his Dharma Eyes.


    He looked over.


    The woman rushing over was filled with surging demonic aura and it seemed to manifest as a flood dragon.


    "Flood dragon?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Sister Long." Yi Xiao smiled as she welcomed the younger girl.

 104 Divine Firmament Chapters Eldest Senior Brother

    Chapter 104: Divine Firmament Chapter''s Eldest Senior Brother


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao looked delighted when she saw the girl of flood dragon descent.


    "I know that Sister would definitely be here on the 25th of February." The dragon girl looked at Qin Yun as her eyes lit up. "Sister, but in the past, you would be alone here on the 25th of February. Why is there another person? Is he my brother-in-law?"


    Qin Yun, who was smiling by the side, was startled when he heard her statement.


    "What are you talking about?" Yi Xiao could not help but blush as she hurriedly said, "He''s my good friend, Qin Yun."


    "Oh! Good friend, I see!" The dragon girl laughed oddly.


    Yi Xiao was left helpless and said to Qin Yun, "Let me do the introductions, this is Sister Long from the East Sea''s Water race''s ''Myriad Serpent Valley''. She is the Valley Lord''s daughter and her name is Long Xiaolian. She''s just eighteen this year and is still very young. She''s good at everything else except her penchant for causing trouble."


    "I do not cause trouble at all!" Long Xiaolian''s big eyes were bright. She carefully looked at Qin Yun and said, "He looks ordinary. I can''t tell how is he powerful."


    "Xiaolian, it''s time we leave." An elder beside her whispered. "The people from the Scenic Mountain Sect are waiting for us."


    "Oh."


    Long Xiaolian nodded and said immediately, "Sister, I''ll be busying myself with official matters! After I''m done with it, I''ll come look for you. It''s rare for me to leave the East Sea so I must have a good tour of the human world. I want to see the prospering human world. Sister, you must accompany me."


    "Alright, alright. Go busy yourself first," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Yea, I specially arranged to meet the human cultivators today at the Cloud Lake Tavern nearby. I just finished some of my official business, so I came to find you." Little Cloud Lake giggled. Following that, she looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, my sister is like a fairy. In my East Sea, I''ve never seen any person more beautiful than her. If you like her, you must grab the opportunity. Quickly become my brother-in-law; if not, Sister will be snatched away by someone!"


    "Cut the nonsense and quickly leave." Yi Xiao''s blush never dissipated.


    "You humans are so troublesome. We from the Water race would directly say it if we like them." Long Xiaolian grumbled and blinked her eyes at Qin Yun. She turned and headed for the Cloud Lake Tavern nearby with the elder beside her.


    When Yi Xiao saw Long Xiaolian depart, she said, "She''s from the East Sea and is here to discuss some trade deal with us humans. The East Sea''s Water race has their exclusive treasures and us humans have what they need so it''s natural we trade among each other to obtain what each party needs."


    "I know."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Isn''t it said that the Water race and humans trade mostly in East Sea County? Why would she come all the way here to Wusu County?"


    "The East Sea County, Wusu County, Golden Qin County are the most prosperous counties in Jiang Prefecture." Yi Xiao explained, "To trade with humans, the East Sea County is the most prosperous but the Wusu County and Golden Qin County have quite a fair bit of trading too. For example, the Scenic Mountain Sect¡­ It is the top cultivation sect in Jiang Prefecture but its sect is located in the Vessel Altar County and is very close to Wusu County. Typically, the trade deals are done in Wusu County."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. He had only been an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador for a few months and although he knew the various factions in Jiang Prefecture, he knew little about the trade deals between the East Sea Water race and humans.


    He only knew that the profits were astounding.


    After all, it was trading with the entire East Sea Water race!


    "The East Sea Dragon Palace is the strongest faction in the East Sea!" Yi Xiao said, "Just like we humans have many sects, there are various factions both big and small in the East Sea. All of them have their own needs. The Myriad Serpent Valley that Sister Long hails from was established by three serpent demon siblings. The Myriad Serpent Valley''s Valley Lord is a Connate Golden Core demon and the second and third Valley Lords are at the Connate True Core realm! Furthermore, the third Valley Lord is a woman but their relationship with the East Sea Dragon Palace is far from average. It''s because this sister of mine has a dragon bloodline."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I can tell. She''s already a flood dragon at the Postnatal realm. Clearly, she was born like that."


    The Water race had some cultivation methods that allowed the body to evolve into a dragon.


    However, to be a flood dragon at the Postnatal realm, the demon must have been born that way!


    Humans and the Water race from the four seas had rather good relationships.


    This was because the humans mainly lived on the land and the Water race of the four seas occupied the four seas! There was naturally no conflicts between the two.


    "The first time I saw Sister Long, she was crying a fountain." Yi Xiao said with a laugh. "However, she treats people sincerely and isn''t scheming at all."


    "I can tell." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    The sky gradually turned dark.


    Long Xiaolian and the elder, as well as two cultivators, were walking together.


    "Uncle Cheng, you are overly petty. You aren''t giving any discounts." Long Xiaolian grumbled. The two cultivators beside her smiled helplessly. They could not say much to a dragon girl.


    "Oh?" The two cultivators saw Qin Yun and Yi Xiao from afar.


    "Daoist Brother Qin." A middle-aged cultivator walked over with a smile immediately. "I never expected to meet you in Wusu County."


    Qin Yun turned to take a look. He got up and said with a smile, "Oh, it''s fellow Daoist Cheng."


    Yi Xiao stood up as well.


    "Yi Xiao, let me introduce you. This is Scenic Mountain Sect''s fellow Daoist Cheng Guang." Qin Yun said with a smile. He had good relations with the Scenic Mountain Sect. Palatial Lord Essence Charm had brought a delegation to his Qin Manor and likewise, he had been to Scenic Mountain Sect before.


    After all, it was Jiang Prefecture''s greatest sect. In the past, it was once a Daoist sacred land. Although it had waned, it was still a top cultivation sect.


    There were two cultivators at the Connate Golden Core realm and as many as eight at the Connate True Core realm. There were even more at the Connate False Core realm! Even the imperial government would use the Scenic Mountain Sect''s help in the Jiang Prefecture.


    "Fellow Daoist Cheng, this is Yi Xiao, a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. Back then, she had joined forces to kill that water ape with me," Qin Yun introduced.


    "I know about that. You really rid a huge scourge of our Jiang Prefecture." Cheng Guang said with a laugh.


    Yi Xiao smiled faintly as well.


    "Uncle Cheng, your fellow Daoist Brother Qin is my brother-in-law¡­ My elder brother. My elder brother!" Long Xiaolian walked over and changed her words when she saw Yi Xiao stare at her. "He''s my brother. Since we are all one big family, how can your Scenic Mountain Sect be so demanding on us?"


    Qin Yun was puzzled.


    By the side, Daoist Cheng smiled when he saw the way things played out. "Well, I never expected Miss Xiaolian to have such a relationship with fellow Daoist Qin. You should have said so early. Then, I''ll give you a discount. Five percent!"


    When Long Xiaolian heard that, she smiled. "Uncle Cheng is the best!"


    Cheng Guang smiled at Qin Yun and said, "Just some trade deals with the Water race. There''s naturally a need to square the accounts. However, since we are all one big family, we can let it pass."


    Giving a little discount during the price negotiation process was nothing, to begin with. They naturally needed to be more calculating when dealing with the Water race but since Qin Yun was here, he took the opportunity to give Qin Yun face.


    Friendship, friendship¡­


    This was how it was formed over long periods of time!


    "Then, thank you fellow Daoist Cheng." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "It''s nothing." Cheng Guang looked at Long Xiaolian. "Miss Xiaolian, everything is settled. Let''s go according to what we proposed. In the future, your Myriad Serpent Valley will trade with our Scenic Mountain Sect in accordance with what was discussed today."


    "Alright." Long Xiaolian nodded.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, I''ll bid you farewell." Cheng Guang cupped his hands. The partner beside him said similar things.


    "I won''t be sending the both of you off." Qin Yun cupped his hands together with Yi Xiao.


    "Have a pleasant journey." Long Xiaolian said immediately.


    Cheng Guan smiled as he waved his sleeves.


    Phew.


    A cloud rose as the duo left on a cloud, returning to Vessel Altar County''s Scenic Mountain Sect.


    After they watched them leave, Long Xiaolian looked over to Qin Yun and exclaimed, "Brother Qin, you are pretty impressive. The Scenic Mountain Sect actually takes you into account! I was planning on negotiating with them for two weeks. It would have been pretty good if I got a two percent discount but I never expect to get five percent immediately. This is the biggest discount the Scenic Mountain Sect has given the Water race from what I know."


    "We are all from the Jiang Prefecture so it''s naturally easier to negotiate." Qin Yun did not elaborate.


    However, Long Xiaolian thought to herself,"A large sect like the Scenic Mountain Sect thinks nothing of ordinary cultivators. From the looks of it, this brother-in-law of mine has an extraordinary background. I should cling on to this powerhouse!"


    "Sister, my work is done. I have lots of time to have fun. I want to go to Golden Qin to see the beauties and to Grand Dominance to eat the delicacies. Accompany me." Long Xiaolian said immediately.


    Yi Xiao smiled as she said, "Alright. However, I''ll be spending another two to three days in Wusu."


    "Then, I''ll accompany you. When the time comes, we as sisters can have fun together." Long Xiaolian''s eyes lit up. "The human world is so much more interesting than our East Sea."


    "When the time comes, I''ll bring you around. I''m a Jiang Prefecture local." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "Of course you have to go! I even want you to treat me. It''s not easy for me to earn some silver." Long Xiaolian said.


    Qin Yun laughed.


    Yi Xiao was feeling slightly better. If she was only fifteen or sixteen, it was unlikely she would even smile while waiting for her father at Windblast Pavilion.


    It was a thing of the past now and Yi Xiao was able to ascertain the situation calmly. However, she continued feeling a little disheartened over the matter. She looked up slightly and it was already dark. It was a star-studded night and unfortunately, she failed to meet her father. It was her twentieth birthday so she intended to wait another two or three days before leaving.


    ¡­


    Daoist sacred land, Divine Firmament Chapter, Three Yang Peak.


    The eldest senior brother of Divine Firmament Chapter''s present generation, Xue Yong, sat cross-legged on the peak. He watched as the distant morning sun rose as lightning bolts swirled across his body.


    "Eldest Senior Brother, Eldest Senior Brother!" A girl ran over.


    "Oh? Junior Sister Shangong." Xue Yong looked at the girl as the lightning on his body converged.


    The girl blushed slightly and handed an envelope over. "This letter, it''s from Jiang Prefecture."


    "Oh?"


    Xue Yong received the envelope and took out the letter inside.


    Then, his brows furrowed slightly.


    "Junior Sister Shangong, go busy yourself," said Xue Yong.


    "Oh, okay." The girl answered immediately and walked down the mountain peak. But before she left, she could not help but turn back. The figure at the top of the mountain peak which was bathed in sunlight was like a god or immortal. After stealing a glance, she turned and left, afraid that she would be discovered by her Eldest Senior Brother.


    Xue Yong glanced at the girl that had descended the mountain.


    He had released his psyche so he long knew that the girl was peeping.


    "Junior Sister Yi Xiao and that Qin Yun are close?" Xue Yong put down the letter. "Everything should be left up to fate. If we are not fated, that''s fine. Love is not to be forced."


    Xue Yong zapped the letter with a lightning bolt, turning it to ash.


    Following that, he closed his eyes and continued cultivating.

 105 Sword Beam Slays Demons

    Chapter 105: Sword Beam Slays Demons


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Three days later.


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Long Xiaolian and a turtle demon were on a cruise that headed for Golden Qin County. East Sea County, Wusu County, and Golden Qin County were three of the most prosperous counties in Jiang Prefecture. Geographically, they went from south to north.


    According to Qin Yun''s original plans, they could have flown directly to Golden Qin. How fast was that?


    But Long Xiaolian insisted on traveling by boat!


    "Wow, how beautiful." Standing on the deck, Long Xiaolian looked at the banks. It was early spring and the willows had already begun budding. Occasionally, there would be a smudge of red amid the greenery along the banks. Further away were large swaths of farmland.


    "This is the human world. The human world!" Long Xiaolian was excited.


    Beside her, the turtle demon elder said with a smile, "In a few more days, with the flowers blooming by the shore, it will be even better. Now, the cherry blossoms are still buds and have not completely bloomed. In about a month''s time, that will be when the willows fly everywhere. It would be ugly then."


    And in an exquisite cabin on the boat.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sat at a tiny table, drinking and having some fruit and dessert.


    "We could have flown to Golden Qin in less than an hour. Now, with the boat proceeding so slowly, it will take a few days." Qin Yun shook his head.


    "It''s rare for Sister Long to leave the sea so naturally she finds everything fresh and new." Yi Xiao said, "Previously, she was busy with her trade deals and did not have the leisure to appreciate it fully. Now that she has the time, she naturally wants to enjoy herself. However, it''s almost March, and the Jiang Prefecture''s scenery is indeed pretty."


    "In terms of scenery in March, Grand Dominance is truly the best in the world." Qin Yun said proudly. "I have traveled the world and can guarantee that even though the neighboring Golden Qin has pretty good scenery in March, Grand Dominance has a little more flair to it. And heading north, the colors turn a little washed out. Heading east, it gets affected by the ocean. It''s Grand Dominance that is perfect in every aspect."


    Yi Xiao smiled as she nodded.


    "When Sister Long returns to the East Sea, Yi Xiao, you have to spend some time in Grand Dominance. I previously mentioned that I would bring you everywhere in Grand Dominance to enjoy its delicacies but you returned to your sect so early," said Qin Yun.


    "Sure thing, after I broke through to the Connate realm, I was planning on touring the world." Yi Xiao naturally agreed.


    Qin Yun could not help but smile.


    The duo enjoyed a casual conversation as they looked at the scenery outside the boat.


    ¡­


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    High in the sky, a group of avian demons was spreading their wings and flying. At the same time, they overlooked the land in every direction.


    "That cultivator sure is bold. He dared kill the young lord. The great king has commanded us to capture the cultivator and torture him to death. His flesh is to be eaten and blood drank. Look carefully. Don''t let that cultivator escape." An avian demon barked as he studied the land beneath him.


    "He won''t escape! His Majesty has given his orders and now, the demon mob is out in full force to capture him. He''s a cultivator not even in the Connate realm so how can he possibly escape?"


    As the demons conversed, they were carefully searching the area.


    As avian demons, their eyes were also very sharp.


    "There is a bunch of farmers over there. Yellow Feathers, the few of you go take a look. See if the cultivator is hidden among them."


    "Alright." Immediately, five avian demons flew into the distance.


    Phew.


    Phew.


    The five avian demons swooped down at extremely fast speeds.


    The boatsman and his daughter were busy serving lunch to the guests on the front deck. At that moment, when they looked up, they saw five dots rapidly flying over. They were appalled to realize that there were five avian demons.


    "Demons! Demons!" The boat''s owner and his daughter were alarmed.


    "Demons?"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked to the berth and came to the deck where Xiaolian and the turtle demon were. They looked up and saw five avian demons flying over rapidly.


    "Demons are actually attacking? Are they going to eat people?" Long Xiaolian could not help but marvel.


    "Although demons would occasionally appear in the city outskirts, it''s very unlikely to encounter them. Traveling merchants would encounter them once after dozens of trips. To many lesser merchants, it''s a calamity." Qin Yun looked up and watched the five incoming demons.


    When the five demons approached, they noticed the four people on the deck. However, they did not have Dharma Eyes and could not recognize that Long Xiaolian and the elder were demons as well.


    "What a beautiful woman."


    "Truly beautiful."


    The five avian demons were instantly attracted by Yi Xiao. As demons, the Divine Concealment Spell was useless against them.


    "Hehehe, such a great beauty. The other girl might be a little young but she''s very pretty too." One of the five demons laughed oddly. "Kill all the men and eat their flesh. Bring the two women away! The great beauty shall be left to His Majesty and the young beauty is mine."


    "Leader, there''s a boat maiden over there too."


    "Kill them for flesh. Check them after they are dead to see if the cultivator is hidden here."


    The five avian demons were floating in front of the boat as they discussed.


    The old boatsman on the boat, as well as his daughter, were trembling.


    "Father." The boat maiden hugged the old man.


    "It''s fine. It''s fine." Although the old boatsman said so, his body could not help but quiver. It was relatively safe from Wusu to Golden Qin. Few demons passed the water channel and it was far away from the demon lairs. He never expected to encounter demons.


    "In a while, if you see things turn bad, jump off the boat immediately. Perhaps, we might still be able to live." The old boatsman whispered to his daughter.


    His daughter was already tearing up.


    Jumping off the boat to live? The demons could still kill the people in the water! The chance of surviving was extremely low.


    ¡­


    "Are you going to kill us and capture us?" Long Xiaolian showed no fear and instead, took the initiative to speak.


    The five avian demons were taken aback.


    "Cut the nonsense. Attack!" The leader of the flying demons gave the order.


    However, Qin Yun extended his hand out.


    Hu! Hu! Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Five blurry sword beams that resembled a drizzle flashed in midair, penetrating the five avian demons. Immediately, the demons were alarmed but following that, they reverted to their true forms, plummeting into the river as gigantic flying birds.


    "Why did you kill them so quickly? I haven''t had a chance to have fun with them." Long Xiaolian could not help but grumble.


    Qin Yun frowned as he looked into the distance.


    Kilometers away, another five demons were flying towards a group of farmers. When the farmers saw the demons, they were horrified and began running in all directions. After Qin Yun entered the Connate realm, it was as though he had been reborn. He could still see well even several kilometers away if the weather was good.


    "These demons." Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with killing intent.


    Shoo!


    A purple beam of light flew out from the scabbard by his waist, leaving behind a remnant shadow behind. In a blink of an eye, it appeared several kilometers away. It tore through the flying demons consecutively, revealing the demons true forms as they plummeted to the ground dead.


    When these farmers saw the situation unfold, they came to a halt. They agitatedly knelt down and kowtowed. "Thank you, gods! Thank the gods for saving our lives."


    To Qin Yun, he was only doing it in passing, but to these farmers, it was their lives. They were the pillars of their family, so if they were to die, their wives and children would only have tragic outcomes.


    "Whew!"


    The purple light flew back into the scabbard by Qin Yun''s waist. It was an eighth-grade Dharma treasure that he exchanged with the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "Odd." Qin Yun frowned. "Wusu County and Golden Qin County are one of the top three counties in Jiang Prefecture. Furthermore, Golden Qin County is governed by the Prefecture Overseer. Demons would seldom take action there, much less be so obstreperous."


    Yi Xiao nodded as well. "We humans hold the advantage in such large counties. Demons would be clandestine when they come out, so why are they being so flagrant?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "We should pay attention to our surroundings. Perhaps something has happened."


    ******


    And about five kilometers from where Qin Yun was.


    Hong Lingtong was holding onto a wooden staff and traversing through a forest nervously. His face was pale and he could not help but cough.


    "Wealth comes from taking risks."


    "In order to repair my treasure, I was really rash this time. The two risks I took previously was within my divined calculations and I escaped unscathed. This time, I killed the demon king''s only son. He''s furious and has sent demons everywhere to capture me. All my Invisibility Charms have been used up. What do I do? What should I do?" Hong Lingtong ran as he anxiously thought of solutions.


    His divination spell was not omniscient.


    Furthermore, the world was profound. Not everything could be divined.


    As Hong Lingtong escaped for his life in panic, he searched for a way out of his peril.


    "Oh?"


    The moment he came to a distance exactly five kilometers from Qin Yun.


    "Hum!"


    The strange ancient turtle shell with cracks that floated inside his dantian began trembling, passing him new information.


    "Survival is in the east! There!" Hong Lingtong looked in the direction where Qin Yun and company were on. However, the boat was five kilometers away and with trees and hills obstructing his line of sight, he could not see a thing. But Hong Lingtong knew. He knew that the chance for survival was in that direction.

 106 Grand Dominance, Qin Yun

    Chapter 106: Grand Dominance, Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Hong Lingtong carefully dashed through the hills and woods and soon, he scaled a mountain. In front of him were large patches of farmland.


    "There''s nothing ahead that provides any cover." Hong Lingtong gritted his teeth and maintaining his Divine Concealment Spell, he once again used a Dao talisman, Divine Traversal Charm. His speed rapidly reached a peak.


    Sou!


    He immediately ran at his fastest possible speed on the farmland and headed east!


    He was dressed in a green outer robe and it was inconspicuous in the woods or farmlands. After all, it was green everywhere in early spring.


    With the ten avian demons in the vicinity having been killed by Qin Yun recently, Hong Lingtong managed to run for about fifteen hundred meters. Despite running across the vast and empty farmlands, no demon noticed him.


    However, there were still avian demons that eventually flew over.


    "Oh?"


    The three avian demons flew in the sky and overlooked the area beneath them in search of their target.


    "Quick, look there! What''s that?"


    "It''s running really fast!"


    These avian demons even swooped down to investigate.


    "It''s that cultivator!" One of the demons shouted immediately.


    "Found him!"


    "Here! He''s here!!!" Three avian demons immediately shrieked. The voice that contained demonic power quickly spread in every direction. They were only ordinary lesser demons and knew that although the cultivator below them had yet to enter the Connate realm. He could match a typical Connate False Core cultivator if he fought desperately. Their young lord had died under the cultivator''s hand so even though he was heavily injured, none of the ordinary lesser demons dared to embark on a suicide mission.


    Hong Lingtong darted across the farmlands and heard the sounds coming from above him. When he looked up, he saw the three avian demons in midair.


    "Oh no, I''ve been discovered." Hong Lingtong''s heart palpitated.


    "Quick, quick, quick."


    Hong Lingtong panicked as he ran desperately.


    ¡­


    "Has that cultivator been discovered?" The voice spread to another end. Instantly, large swarms of demons received the news. As they passed the news to their king, they proceeded to stop Hong Lingtong.


    "Quickly head there."


    "Catch that cultivator."


    An ox demon in midair instantly gave the commanded as he commandeered a cloud and proceeded.


    And elsewhere.


    On the boat, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had also heard the demons'' shrieks coming from high up in the sky. They were standing on the deck watching from afar. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao cultivated in top heritage so although Yi Xiao had yet to comprehend the charms of the Heavenly Dao, causing her to condense a Connate False Core that was slightly weaker than Qin Yun''s, she could still barely make out a figure that was running at a high speed three kilometers away.


    As for Qin Yun, he was able to discern it even better. He could vaguely make out the other party''s looks and silhouette.


    "It looks like Hong Lingtong?" Qin Yun was a little astonished.


    "Go."


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the purple flying sword instantly unsheathed itself from the scabbard by his waist and streaked through the sky noiselessly as a purple beam. It was like a drizzle that left traces of a faint sword beam in the sky.


    ******


    Hong Lingtong was desperately running on the farmlands while he crossing streams as if he were on flat land.


    However, it was clear that the demons gathering in the sky were increasing.


    "What are you all afraid of? That cultivator is already heavily injured. He''s not even my match." With a loud call, a hawk demon swooped down. It was one of the demon leaders and its strength was approaching that of the Connate False Core realm.


    With the hawk demon leading the way, two other demon leaders charged downwards as well.


    With a whoosh, a large number of lesser demons swarmed forward.


    "Oh no."


    Seeing the three demon leaders lead dozens of lesser demons down, Hong Lingtong immediately revealed a look of despair. "Survival is in the east. How far away is the east?"


    "Haha, Cultivator, you won''t be able to escape." The hawk demon rushed in front of him and struck out with his talons.


    Shoo!


    A purple light that resembled a drizzle flashed past. The ferocious hawk demon widened his eyes in terror but before he could say a word, he immediately transformed into his true form and flew backward. Hong Lingtong struck the hawk demon''s corpse with his wooden staff. He was also surprised by the sudden appearance of the purple beam of light that streaked across the sky like a flighty fish. Instantly, it pierced through the avian demons one after another.


    In a blink of an eye, dozens of demons, including the demon leaders, fell to the ground after reverting to their true forms. They had all died on the spot.


    With a whoosh, the purple beam of light circled around and stopped beside Hong Lingtong. It was a purple flying sword that rapidly expanded to several feet long.


    "Aren''t you getting on?" A voice resounded in the surroundings.


    When Hong Lingtong heard that, he revealed a look of delight. "Brother Qin?"


    At that moment, he was thrilled to tears. He had previously lived in Grand Dominance City and for the past few months, he had been visiting Qin Yun frequently. They had a great friendship so he naturally could identify Qin Yun''s voice instantly.


    "Hold on." Hong Lingtong waved his hand and released his Quintessential Essence which engulfed the three demon leaders'' corpses, sweeping away some of the items the demon leaders had.


    "Quickly. There are more demons coming," urged Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong immediately stepped onto the purple flying sword.


    Sou!


    The purple flying sword quickly flew back.


    When more demons rushed over from various regions, they saw that Hong Lingtong had landed on a boat after traveling on a purple flying sword.


    Hong Lingtong saw Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and company standing at the bow of the boat. When he landed, he greeted gratefully, "Brother Qin." As for the purple flying sword, it shrunk and flew back into Qin Yun''s scabbard.


    "You are eyeing even that tiny bit of treasure?" Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong as he carried a bunch of trinkets.


    "It''s better than nothing. Those ordinary lesser demons are very poor while the demon leaders have accumulated a little more wealth. Hey, this banknote worth a hundred thousand taels of silver is yours, while I''ll keep the remaining trinkets. You don''t think much of them anyway." Hong Lingtong said immediately. As he spoke, he could not help but cough twice. His face flushed red as he coughed out a mouthful of blood. Instantly, he wrapped the blood in Quintessential Essence and send it off the boat and into the river.


    Qin Yun did not think much of the banknote and instead, frowned while looking at Hong Lingtong. "Your injuries are very severe?"


    "It''s alright. I won''t die from them." Hong Lingtong''s face was pale. "I did not dare to spit out the blood while escaping, afraid that the demons could track me through the smell of my blood."


    Qin Yun stretched out his hand and grabbed Hong Lingtong''s wrist. A wisp of Quintessential Essence was sent into Hong Lingtong''s body to probe it. His expression changed slightly. "You are seriously injured. Your innards have shock wounds. You will have to return and recuperate."


    "This bit of injury is nothing. I''ve gotten into trouble. I killed Black Demon King''s only son," said Hong Lingtong.


    "Black Demon King?"


    Long Xiaolian and the turtle demon was alarmed. They had long heard of Black Demon King''s fame.


    Yi Xiao frowned slightly as she looked at Qin Yun.


    "Black Demon King?" Qin Yun nodded. "Alright. Hong Lingtong, have a good rest for the time being and leave the rest to me. Don''t worry, I''ll definitely send you back to Grand Dominance County safely."


    "Are you confident?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask. Although she had entered the Connate realm and the Lightning Dharm she cultivated was extraordinary, allowing her to match that of an ordinary Connate True Core realm, she believed she was not Black Demon King''s match.


    Qin Yun glanced at Yi Xiao and said, "Yi Xiao, you can just watch by the side."


    Yi Xiao was astonished when she heard that. Following that, she heaved a sigh of relief and nodded with a smile. "Then, I''ll watch here."


    "Brother-in-law, are you really that Black Demon King''s match?" Long Xiaolian asked immediately. "Black Demon King is very powerful. Even my mother is no match for him."


    And at that moment.


    There were more and more demons gathered in midair. They were scattered in the surroundings and staring at the boat. The boatsman and his daughter panicked as they held their breaths. The maiden whispered, "Father, immortals, and demons are about to fight." However, the boatsman had an unconcealable glint in his eyes. "So many demons in the sky do not dare to attack. The people on our boat must be some powerful immortals. This is enough for me to brag for a lifetime."


    Among all the demons in the sky, an ox demon finally arrived.


    The stocky ox demon came over while standing on a cloud. While being clustered round by the horde of demons, he overlooked the area beneath him.


    "Who''s that on the boat? How dare you make an enemy out of my Goat Horn Mountain?" The ox demon''s voice reverberated like thunder throughout the world. He was also a great demon at the Connate False Core realm.


    "Grand Dominance, Qin Yun." Qin Yun stood at the bow of the boat and spoke while looking at the horde of demons in the sky that resembled a black cloud.


    "It''s him?"


    When the ox demon heard that, his expression changed. "Retreat! Retreat!"


    Woosh!


    The ox demon, as well as the demon leaders that knew of Qin Yun''s name, retreated a great distance away in fright. Although the other lesser demons were somewhat at a loss, they naturally retreated quickly when they saw the Connate great demons retreating in fear. Instantly, they retreated about a kilometer, putting a distance of about three kilometers between them and Qin Yun.


    "I heard that a flying sword can kill the enemy at a great distance. Now that we are so far, I''ll escape the moment his flying sword moves. I should be fine." The ox demon thought to himself.


    "Why do we need to flee? Leader, who is Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun?"


    "What background does Qin Yun have?"


    Some of the lesser demons asked amid whispers.


    The ox demon naturally couldn''t be bothered to elaborate. A few demon leaders immediately explained in hushed tones, "Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun is one of the strongest cultivators in Grand Dominance County. He has been conferred the title of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. A flying sword can kill us from a great distance. Demons like us will only be sending ourselves to our deaths no matter the number."


    "He''s that powerful?" The lesser demons'' hearts were seized with fear.


    Long Xiaolian, the turtle demon, the boatsman and his daughter noticed that by simply declaring his name, Qin Yun had forced the numerous demons in the sky to retreat rapidly. Instead of pressing down on them, they had retreated about a kilometer, opening a gap of about three kilometers.


    They were all somewhat faltering.


    "Qin Yun!" At about three kilometers away, the ox demon bellowed, "I would like to inform you that the cultivator you saved a moment ago has killed my Black Demon King''s only son. He will definitely kill him for revenge! If you release that cultivator now, this matter has nothing to do with you."


    "You are gutsy. Come over and speak in front of me." Qin Yun''s voice sounded out.

 107 Qin Yun and Black Demon King

    Chapter 107: Qin Yun and Black Demon King


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s voice wasn''t loud but every demon in a three-kilometer radius heard it clearly. It sounded like it came from beside them.


    The ox demon seemed to gag as he widened his mouth but did not speak another word.


    "Do you think I''m dumb enough to send myself to my death voluntarily? This Qin Yun clearly has intense killing intent." The ox demon overlooked the area beneath him and at a glance, saw the demon corpses of those that had been killed a while ago. "Against such a terrifying cultivator, I should wait for His Majesty to come first. I expect His Majesty to be arriving soon."


    ¡­


    Elsewhere in midair.


    Black Demon King was thin and he wore black armor. The black goat horns on his head seemed eager to pierce through the firmament as his purple pupils were cold and sinister. There were black gases swirling around him as numerous subordinates followed beside him. The rest of his subordinates had scattered in search for the cultivator, Hong Lingtong, who had killed his only son.


    "Phew." A golden beam of light flashed from a distance. A great demon with dark golden wings and dark golden fur on his face arrived. He was none other than Great Demon Golden Firmament.


    "Brother Golden Firmament." Black Demon King spoke.


    "Brother Goat, he''s found! Your subordinates have discovered the cultivator." Golden Firmament said immediately. He was Nine Mountain Island Lord''s personal disciple and was also of Cloudfiend Mountain descent! Although his strength in the Connate True Core realm was only considered ordinary, his escape arts were unparalleled. In order to find Hong Lingtong, Black Demon King had sought Golden Firmament''s help.


    Golden Firmament was adept at flying so he traveled everywhere and got to know many powerful great demons. In terms of strength, he was probably the weakest among the great demons at the Connate True Core realm in Jiang Prefecture but in terms of the number of friends, no one would dare challenge him.


    "He''s finally been found!" A cold glint flashed in Black Demon King''s eyes. "Brother Golden Firmament, please lead the way."


    "Alright."


    Woosh~


    Golden Firmament immediately controlled the wind and swept Black Demon King and the demons around in a tempestuous storm as they tore through the air.


    In a few seconds, Golden Firmament had brought the demons to arrive in the place where the demons were gathered.


    "Your Majesty."


    Instantly, the ox demon and other demons bowed respectfully.


    The black gases around Black Demon King stirred as he looked down coldly. Golden Firmament stood by the side. The other great demons at the Connate False Core realm stood behind him while the avian lesser demons were spread across the sky. There were already more than a hundred! Of course, with Black Demon King''s influence, the demons under him numbered in the tens of thousands. However, the number of flying demons were fewer in number. Besides, many of them had not rushed over in time.


    "Where''s he? Has he been captured?" Black Demon King glanced at the ox demon.


    "Your Majesty, the cultivator that killed the young lord is on that boat." The ox demon said in a hushed tone, "We also wanted to attack but there is an extremely powerful cultivator onboard that boat. He''s also an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."


    Black Demon King knitted his brows.


    However, Golden Firmament felt his heart tighten as he converged his aura greatly. He was only of ordinary strength among those at the Connate True Core. He was not the match of any Inspector Heavenly Ambassador and he was bent on escaping the moment he saw things go south! Of course, he was extremely confident in escaping!


    "It''s fine. With Black Demon King here, no matter which Inspector Heavenly Ambassador it is, it will be Black Demon King spearheading the matter. I''m only here to help him find the murderer and not to risk my life for him." Golden Firmament thought to himself.


    Black Demon King frowned as the bloodlust in his eyes turned richer. He said coldly, "Did you say that the cultivator had killed my only son?"


    "I said so," said the ox demon immediately. "But it was useless."


    "He doesn''t give me face?" Black Demon King said coldly, "Which Inspector Heavenly Ambassador is he?"


    "Grand Dominance, Qin Yun!" The ox demon whispered immediately.


    "It''s him? I''ve heard of him. A young human fellow who thinks that he has the qualifications to challenge me because he killed some Connate True Core fiendish demon of some unknown origin?" Black Demon King sneered. By the side, Golden Firmament''s eyelids twitched. Qin Yun? He did not know that the Connate True Core fiendish demon, Gongye Bing, was his Uncle-Master as his identity was always kept a secret. However, ever since he knew that Qin Yun was the one who killed Gongye Bing, he suspected that the aggressor at Qin Manor that night was Qin Yun himself. Qin Yun might have been controlling the flying sword and he might have already broken through to the Connate False Core realm back then.


    ¡­


    On the boat, Qin Yun looked up and saw Black Demon King appear at a distance.


    "He''s here." Yi Xiao''s expression was heavy as she said, "Black Demon King is a goat demon. He has cultivated for more than five centuries and is excellent at melee combat. Even more powerful is his ''Five-fire White Bone Beads''. It is an entire set of Dharma treasures and has been refined by him into an unfathomable state. He can even form his own domain! Qin Yun, you have to be careful."


    "I''m from the Jiang Prefecture so I naturally know all the fiendish demons in it at the back of my hand. I have also heard from other cultivators about Black Demon King''s Five-fire White Bone Beads several times. Besides, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance has intelligence that counters his methods, so I''m confident." Qin Yun said with a smile. "However, these demons sure are one of a kind. That water ape dared to call himself a god at the Connate False Core realm. This goat demon might be a rather famous old demon at the Connate True Core realm but he dares to call himself a demon king."


    Yi Xiao smiled as well and nodded. "We humans naturally have our rules. Conferment of nobility or royalty is done by the imperial government. Cultivators would not dare wantonly claim to be gods or kings. Correspondingly, demons are rather lax in this aspect."


    "You humans just have too many rules." Long Xiaolian grumbled from the side.


    Phew¡ª


    The horde of demons flew over once again. As they approached, even the mortal boatsman and his daughter could see the black goat-horned fiendish demon in the billowing black clouds. Just the sight alone made their hearts tremble and their legs go limp.


    "The one below, are you Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun?" Black Demon King''s voice echoed.


    "Black Demon King." Qin Yun spoke as well.


    Black Demon King looked downwards and carefully studied Qin Yun''s looks. He said coldly and sinisterly, " I truly envy you humans. Just a few decades is enough to match centuries or a millennium of our cultivation! You must already know that the cultivator you saved killed my only son today! Regardless, I have to kill that cultivator to avenge my son. Whoever stops me will be my blood enemy!"


    "Release him now and I''ll forget this matter. After this, I''ll send subordinates to present you with great gifts at Qin Manor. How about that?" offered Black Demon King.


    Truly powerful great fiendish demons had fought with cultivators since time immemorial.


    The stronger they were, they more fearful they became.


    Because in a truly desperate fight¡­ the great fiendish demon might be killed but so could the cultivator! Therefore, without confidence, the more unlikely it was for top existences to clash. Especially on the human side, as long as they could ensure that the fiendish demons showed some restraint, allowing human commoners to lead a relatively normal life, human cultivators would not risk their lives in a desperate fight without absolute confidence.


    In a desperate fight what was being risked was one''s life! Even the most powerful cultivator or great fiendish demon only had one!


    On the ship, Hong Lingtong saw the horde of demons in the sky and his heart tightened from seeing the fiendish gases billowing around Black Demon King.


    "Hand him over? Impossible!" Qin Yun said coldly.


    Black Demon King was immediately incensed as his eyes turned green with rich killing intent. He bellowed angrily, "He killed my son! Is there any wrong with me wanting to kill him? Qin Yun, depart quickly or I''ll kill you as well! I''ll kill anyone that stops me today!"


    The other humans and demons remained silent.


    "Haha¡­ Fiendish demons eat and kill humans. Is there any fault killing one of you fiendish demons?" Qin Yun bellowed furiously.


    Black Demon King turned even more vexed. He was already infuriated having his only son killed. However, having cultivated for more than five centuries, he was not one to easily pick a fight with an expert at the same level even though he found Qin Yun young and lacking in experience. He roared once again, "Qin Yun, it was not easy for you to cultivate to this stage. Are you really going to risk your life to fight me for a weak cultivator?"


    "Attack if you want to attack. Cut the nonsensical crap! Watch your front!" Qin Yun suddenly waved his hand as a silver sword beam instantly flew out. A rush of air that spontaneously tore through the sky transformed into a dazzling rainbow beam that shot at the distant Black Demon King.

 108 Misty Rain Sword Ar

    Chapter 108: Misty Rain Sword Art


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "What, we are fighting just like that?" Black Demon King''s heart trembled. Although he was enraged previously and made fierce threats, fighting with Qin Yun was the worst of his plans! For him to be able to cultivate for more than five centuries, it was because he seldom risked his life in battle. Every time he risked his life, it was like traversing the borders of life and death! Therefore, unless cultivators and great demons had the confidence or had reasons that forced them to risk their lives, they would not easily come to blows.


    "A recently promoted junior sure has an exaggerated opinion of his abilities. It appears that I''ve not fought for a long while that even a junior doesn''t think much of me." Rich killing intent burned in Black Demon King''s eyes. Although such great demons would not easily risk their lives, they would naturally not go easy once they decided to take action.


    Black Demon King looked down at the boat as his voice rumbled with his shout. "Qin Yun! Since you insist on death, I''ll fulfill your desire!"


    He waved his hand.


    A string of white bones on his wrist flew out, separating into five White Bone Beads. Each of them burned with black flames and from the size of a fingertip, they rapidly expanded to the size of a human head. There were dense runes engraved on them. With the black flames that accompanied it, they were like five meteors that streaked across the sky.


    "They are clashing."


    "A clash just like that?"


    On the boat, everyone looked up anxiously. The boatsman and his daughter watched in a daze. Be it the fiendish demon or the Five-fire White Bone Beads, both of them moved too quickly. As humans, they could not discern it at all but they were extremely excited. "Immortals and fiendish demons are fighting using the Dharma! Fighting using the Dharma! Look, there''s light everywhere!"


    Qin Yun looked up as well, his eyes burning with ardor.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a rainbow beam of light and clashed with the Five-fire White Bone Beads in midair. In an unparalleled and mysterious manner, the Five-fire White Bone Beads blocked the sword beam and resulted in a boom. The Intrinsic Flying Sword was sent flying backward from the shock but like a fish, it circled around and shot high into the sky at his opponent. Black Demon King stood in midair with black demonic gases billowing around him. He sneered as he overlooked the area in contempt.


    "Woosh!" The Five-fire White Bone Beads attacked the flying sword from every angle and black ripples emanated from it, which unmistakably affected the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    In midair, the Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a sword rainbow with majestic might as it constantly darted around like a fish.


    However, the Five-fire White Bone Beads formed its own domain, affecting the flying sword with its black ripples. While being assaulted by the Five-fire White Bone Bead''s barrage of attacks, the silver flying sword was completely trapped like a fish in a net; it was unable to escape.


    "It doesn''t look good. This brother-in-law of mine doesn''t seem like he is Black Demon King''s match. He''s going to lose." Long Xiaolian turned nervous.


    "The Five-fire White Bone Beads are famous. The Black Demon King is not to be provoked." The turtle demon elder panicked as well. If Qin Yun were to lose, they would likely be implicated. "I wish that Qin Yun is able to lead us in an escape if he loses."


    "Sister, can Brother-in-law win?" Long Xiaolian grabbed Yi Xiao and asked softly.


    Yi Xiao glanced at her exasperatedly, "Don''t worry. Qin Yun''s flying sword only appears to be at a disadvantage but sword immortals are not only good at the offensive, their Sword Kinesis Flight is also extremely famous! Even if he''s not Black Demon King''s match, he can easily escape with us using Sword Kinesis Flight. In terms of flying arts, that Black Demon King is absolutely inferior to Qin Yun."


    "That relieves me." Long Xiaolian patted her chest.


    When Yi Xiao saw this, she shook her head and turned to look high into the sky. She was also worried. "Did Qin Yun miscalculate Black Demon King''s strength?"


    She looked at Qin Yun beside her and saw that he was clearly immersed in battle.


    And at that moment, the demon horde in the sky was turning excited because they could tell that their Black Demon King was having the upper hand.


    The ox demon added, "To think that a recently promoted Inspector Heavenly Ambassador dares to challenge His Majesty. He truly


    has a suicidal wish."


    "He''s too young and he lacks experience." Golden Firmament laughed and said as well. "Who wantonly take action without sufficient experience and confidence when engaging in combat at this level? In a true battle between cultivators and fiendish demons, it would truly mean life and death."


    "Sword immortals are adept at Sword Kinesis Flight." Beside Golden Firmament, Black Demon King sneered and said, "For this flying sword to have such might, it''s likely his Intrinsic Flying Sword. I''ll trap his Intrinsic Flying Sword before killing him! If he tries to escape, he will have to give his Intrinsic Flying Sword up."


    "Brother Goat, great strategy." Golden Firmament heaped praises on him.


    Black Demon King commanded with his mind.


    The Five-fire White Bone Beads that had trapped the flying sword suddenly separated, allowing for a White Bone Bead to hurtle at Qin Yun like a meteor! The other four White Bone Beads continued to trap the silver flying sword. After the clash from before, Black Demon King had an understanding of Qin Yun''s flying sword arts. "From the prior clash, four White Bone Beads should be sufficient to trap his Intrinsic Flying Sword. The other beads can be used to kill him!"


    Even one White Bone Bead could produce the peak strength at the Connate True Core realm.


    "I''ve been underestimated." Standing at the bow, Qin Yun grinned. "Have a taste of my Misty Rain Sword Art."


    Phew.


    The flying sword in the air suddenly experienced changes.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    "There''s wind?" Black Demon King watched his surroundings in a daze. There was a sudden gust of wind that was extremely gentle. "My demonic gases fill the area and any wind should be blocked by the demonic gases, why would it reach me?"


    The boatsman and his daughter, Long Xiaolian, the turtle demon, and Yi Xiao could sense a special wind stirring in the surroundings. It was no ordinary wind but one that faintly contained special energies, one that left one''s heart palpitating.


    Accompanied by the gentle wind was¡­ rain!


    A gentle spring rain wafted everywhere.


    Yet, the flying sword vanished.


    The flying sword that was in the form of a rainbow beam had fused into the rain. The misty rain naturally enveloped the five White Bone Beads and surrounded the distant Black Demon King.


    "Peng!"


    A wisp of the drifting rain struck a White Bone Bead that was burning fiercely with black flames before revealing its true nature¡ªa silver flying sword! The silver flying sword sent the White Bone Bead flying after the collision.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­ The Five-fire White Bone Beads received a bombardment of attacks.


    "No good, domain suppression!" Black Demon King''s expression changed as he flipped his hand to take out a trident. At the same time, he tried his best to control the Five-fire White Bone Bead''s domain. Circular black ripples pulsed outwards, sweeping across the drifting raindrops. Finally, the raindrops were affected to reveal their true form. They were trajectories of the flying sword.


    These flying sword trajectories seemed like a huge net that enveloped a region. Every flying sword trajectory contained great might and had about ten percent of the flying sword''s strength! The strength the flying sword possessed was even more terrifying!


    In fact, attacks like the Cyclic Sword Flash could not make the flying sword truly be everywhere within a huge sphere. Instead, they were remnant sword beams, each containing rather powerful sword intent. That was also why the flying sword''s strength decreased.


    "Pu!"


    The Five-fire White Bone Bead were affected after being obstructed by countless flying sword trajectories. Furthermore, the flying sword was shooting straight at Black Demon King himself.


    "What sort of move is that? A sword is able to parry my Five-fire White Bone Bead and still attack me?" Black Demon King waved his trident and fended himself in melee combat. With a clank, he parried the flying sword. However, under the countless wispy rain and the constantly changing flying sword trajectories, a flying sword beam slashed across his chest. Thankfully, he had chest armor that shielded him, resulting in sparks as the beam streaked across.


    Another sword beam fluttered to his arm, lacerating a bloody wound.


    As for Golden Firmament, the ox demon and the other demons, they had long retreated frantically! Due to the aftershock from the sword beams, quite a number of lesser demons had their bodies penetrated directly. They died on the spot, reverting to their true forms as they plummeted into the sea.


    Golden Firmament retreated far away and shouted immediately, "Brother Goat, be careful. Legends speak of Connate Golden Core sword immortals that can divide their swords beams. A sword can be split into thousands of sword beams! This strike of Qin Yun''s feels like it can divide into swords beams."


    "Sword beam division?" Black Demon King''s pupils constricted as his heart skipped a beat.


    That ridiculous?


    How could a newly promoted Inspector Heavenly Ambassador have such a flying sword art?


    "Qin Yun, what flying sword art is this?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask. She too could tell the mightiness of the flying sword art. It was great at attacking en masse! Furthermore, it was extremely powerful! Previously, Qin Yun was already adept at attacking en masse before he broke through to the Connate realm. However, he was now completely different from before.


    "A flying sword art I created myself called Misty Rain Sword Art." Qin Yun said, "This strike is the Misty Rain Sword Art''s Spring Rain."


    Among sword immortals, if they could grasp an inkling of the Heavenly Dao''s charms and gain insights into their own sword intent, they could gradually begin to create flying sword arts for themselves.


    Like several of the sword arts like the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art from before, the sword intent contained within them belonged to the ancients and not his! Only by creating a sword art that was based on his sword intent could he produce the strongest power. Back when he was dealing with Gongye Bing, Qin Yun did not have the time to slowly create a new sword art. Naturally, he first found the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art that matched his Misty Rain Sword Intent for cultivation to enhance his strength as fast as possible.


    After becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, Qin Yun had the time. He calmed his mind and began researching the flying sword arts from the Sword Immortal Legacy he had obtained. After amalgamating some of the techniques within the flying sword arts, he fused them with his Misty Rain Sword Intent and began creating a new flying sword art.


    Qin Yu named this flying sword the Misty Rain Sword Art.


    And this strike that he used was a move that attacked en masse¡ªSpring Rain!

 109 The Great Battles Curtain Call

    Chapter 109: The Great Battle''s Curtain Call


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Like the sixth level of the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art, the Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart from before, it was also a move that attacked en masse. However, it did not contain sword intent, while Qin Yun''s Spring Rain was much better.


    "You want to beat me with this bit of strength?" Black Demon King was enraged. There was naturally a reason why he was infamous throughout the Jiang Prefecture.


    Sou! Sou!


    Two White Bone Beads flew back quickly and circled Black Demon King''s surroundings. It constantly revolved around him, blocking Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword! Furthermore, Black Demon King held a trident in hand and together with the two White Bone Beads, his defense was impenetrable.


    "Infinite Fire Hell!" Black Demon King''s expression was hideous.


    The White Bone Beads suddenly spewed black flames that surged outwards, enveloping Black Demon King within. At the same time, more flames flared towards the ship beneath!


    "So much fire. Black fire!" The boatsman and his daughter watched as the massive black flames descended down from the sky in a boundless manner. It was as though a black cloud was pressing down. Their faces were white and they were trembling. They also wanted to muster their courage to not tremble since their survival depended on the outcome of the battle between the immortal god and the fiendish demon! However, they could not control their bodies!


    "Be careful. This is the toxic flames that have been stored within the Five-fire White Bone Beads for a long time." Yi Xiao warned immediately.


    "Releasing the flames? Simply trivial." With a thought from Qin Yun, the entire ship floated up and escaped the water surface. The purple flying sword by his waist flew out and rapidly formed a massive Cyclic Sword Flash that wrapped the ship within.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The black flames descended like a cloud and although the flames were toxic, they failed to penetrate Qin Yun''s enhanced Cyclic Sword Flash. This was Qin Yun''s best defensive move. Casting it with an eighth-grade Dharma treasure was in no way weak either. After the roaring flames were the three White Bone Beads that blazed down like meteors.


    However, they were similarly blocked by the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "The White Bone Beads'' might is only average. It can''t break through my Cyclic Sword Flash." Qin Yun flipped his hand. There was a bangle originally wrapped around his wrist. It was formed from two thin layers of metal but now, one layer of the bangle flew up and flattened. It was the black flying sword.


    Back when Qin Yun killed Gongye Bing, he had received the treasures Gongye Bing had accumulated for years.


    Gongye Bing was, after all, a rather powerful Connate True Core realm fiendish demon. He was also a county governor but because he had not cultivated for long and he was only promoted to a county governor for a short period of time, the treasures he left behind were not enough to exchange for materials to raise Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword to the fifth-grade. One had to know that at the level of Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors, the Dharma treasures they had were typically at the fifth-grade.


    It could only be explained that Gongye Bing was somewhat poor, poorer than Daoist Red Jade, Daoist Yan, and company.


    Of course, Qin Yun still exchanged for materials at the Inspector Heavenly Alliance headquarter''s Treasure Repository, raising his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the sixth-grade.


    But compared to the other Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors, Qin Yun was still a little deficient!


    He only raised his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the sixth grade, with about thirty to forty percent of the treasures left behind by Gongye Bing remaining. As for making it reach the fifth grade? The treasures needed would be sufficient to make three or four sixth-grade Dharma treasures! Therefore, Qin Yun used Gongye Bing''s treasures and exchanged them for array formations to set up in Qin Manor. Now, Qin Manor was pretty much impregnable. It was only slightly inferior to County Governor Manor. He had also exchanged for three eighth-grade Dharma treasure flying swords to supplement him. For example, the eighth-grade clasp he gave Yi Xiao was also exchanged from Treasure Repository.


    "Another flying sword?" Long Xiaolian saw as the blazing sea of black fire was being warded off by the massive sword beam shield. Then, she looked at the floating black sword in front of Qin Yun and could not help but pat her chest and heaved a sigh of relief.


    Qin Yun glanced at Long Xiaolian and said with a smile, "I don''t dare to make absolute statements about other aspects such as my flying sword art''s offenses but in terms of defense, it''s what I''m most confident of."


    "I believe you, Brother-in-law." Long Xiaolian said immediately.


    "Long Xiaolian! Enough!" Yi Xiao could not help but yell through a voice transmission.


    Long Xiaolian widened her eyes as she rolled her eyes wittily and acted dumb.


    As for the boatsman and his daughter, they were in a trance as they watched the ship float off the water surface and saw the black inferno being fended off by the sword beams above them.


    "Father, our ship is flying." The boat maiden said immediately, "Our ship can fly too? Has it become an immortal''s Dharma treasure?"


    "I do not know, but these Dharma spells are truly pretty." The boatsman looked at the Cyclic Sword Flash that enveloped them. "It''s more beautiful than the fireworks I''ve seen in the city."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun looked up and frowned. "He does have a bit of strength to be that renowned. This bit of area-of-effect move is still too weak."


    "Misty Rain Sword Art''s Blood Runs Cold!


    A glimmer flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes as he immediately struck out with another deathblow.


    The wind and the rain vanished.


    The raindrops that were pelting the surroundings of Black Demon King dissipated. It left Black Demon King slightly taken aback. However, the two White Bone Beads continue to revolve around him warily. His trident was on constant alert. As for the silver flying sword, it appeared a distance away. Following that, the silver flying sword rapidly expanded, transforming into a glaring sword beam, colored by a biting hint of blood.


    "Kill!" Black Demon King heard the battle cry faintly in his ears.


    He seemed to see the blood drifting through the battlefield and could smell the blood lingering.


    "No good!" Black Demon King was experienced and knew that things weren''t going well. He tried his best to ward off the influence the flying sword had on him. Some moves that powerful Connate Golden Core realm experts employed could even influence the senses of others. They would lose their lives without realizing it. This was because the moves contained a portion of the implications of the Heavenly Dao.


    Bam! Bam!


    The two White Bones Beads were indeed powerful. They were able to defend against ''Blood Runs Cold'' that was less variable than ''Spring Rain''. However, ''Blood Runs Cold'' seemed like a relentless general on the battlefield. It would hunt its enemy down without any regard. Its might was a lot greater than Spring Rain! The two White Bone Beads were sent flying after being struck and although they circled around to fly back, there was a momentary gap in the defense.


    Black Demon King immediately brandished his trident to fend off the attack.


    "Bam." Black Demon King blocked the flying sword but the collision left him in a staggering retreat. The flying sword flashed and resumed its assault.


    The sharp blood-colored beam grazed past Black Demon King''s abdomen just as the two White Bone Beads returned, boring a huge wound in him.


    "Return!" Black Demon King felt the danger of death and immediately controlled the other three White Bone Beads that remained far away.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Realizing that he could not spare the effort to deal with Qin Yun, Black Demon King rapidly withdrew the three White Bone Beads that flew back like meteors. After all, he was only about a kilometer away. As the formidable blood-colored flying sword beam repressed the two White Bone Beads and his trident, another blood hole tore through his shoulder when finally, the other three White Bones Beads returned.


    Despite the five White Bone Beads revolving around his body, the Black Demon King could barely block the menacing sanguine beam with his trident.


    "Oh?" When Qin Yun saw the turn of events, he commanded, "Go! Go!"


    Pew! Pew!


    The black flying sword that was floating in front of him and the purple flying sword in midair immediately transformed into two streams of light that shot towards the distant Black Demon King.


    Now, the Black Demon King had retracted the Five-fire White Bone Beads for an all-out defense. Even the black toxic flames had been withdrawn. As such, there was no need for Qin Yun to continue using Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "What, another two flying swords?" Black Demon King''s expression changed when he saw that. "Escape!"


    He ignored everything else.


    As the Five-fire White Bone Beads circled around his body while he held the trident, Black Demon King immediately fled.


    As for Golden Firmament, who was a distance away, he immediately flapped his dark golden wings when he saw the situation go awry. With a whoosh, he vanished into the horizon. And in another blink of an eye, he vanished completely from Qin Yun''s vision. In terms of escaping capabilities, Golden Firmament was indeed excellent.


    "He escaped?" When Qin Yun saw the situation unfold, he did not pursue him even though he could control the flying sword at a distance of more than five kilometers. "I was planning on testing out my sword array art from my Misty Rain Sword Art. However, I''ll pass on it since he has escaped. These two flying swords are only at the eighth-grade and not an Intrinsic Flying Sword. It''s much less formidable than my Intrinsic Flying Sword. Even if I use a sword array art, it is unlikely to do much harm to him with his fortified defense with the Five-fire White Bone Beads."


    "There are still so many fiendish demons around." Qin Yun cast his gaze onto the demons that were fleeing across the sky. They were much slower, completely incomparable to Black Demon King.


    "Goat Horn Mountain is a famous land of fiendish demons. Countless humans have died under their talons and eaten by them. I''m powerless if they hide in their lairs, but now?" A cold glimmer flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew back.


    The purple and black flying swords transformed into two beams of light as they swiftly pierced through the demons around.


    "Your Majesty, save me!"


    "Your Majesty."


    "No¡­"


    These demons were horrified but it was useless.


    Previously, they would feel joyous excitement seeing weak humans being terrified in front of them. Now, they could no longer be excited when in the same situation. There was only despair.


    "No, Your Majesty, save me!" The ox demon was anxious as well. He was a Connate False Core realm great demon after all.


    "Phuah!"


    The purple and black beams of light crossed each other instantly, drilling through the ox demon''s body.


    Even while controlling two eighth-grade flying swords, Qin Yun was still able to showcase strength at the peak Connate True Core realm. Killing a Connate False Core realm great demon was trivial.


    Soon.


    Demon corpses began plummeting from the sky with only Black Demon King and Golden Firmament managing to escape! Before Black Demon King took action, he had never expected for such an outcome.


    "Victory? Black Demon King has escaped?" Yi Xiao looked up in astonishment.


    Black Demon King himself had the strength of an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador so it was considered fairly impressive to take the upper hand. But to cause the Black Demon King to escape for his life without regard for his subordinates? It was truly rare!


    As for killing him?


    The difference in strength between both parties was even greater.


    "If he fights me head on, his strength is weaker than mine. But his life-preservation methods are rather powerful. With the Five-fire White Bone Beads revolving around his body, it''s like a turtle shell." Qin Yun said.


    "For these old demons to settle in and strike fear to a region, they must have extremely capable life-preserving methods even if we ignore the other aspects." Yi Xiao said.


    Bam! The boat landed in the river at the same time, causing the river''s surface to splash upwards.


    And this battle similarly reached the lower threshold of the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror. After learning of this matter, the information would be recorded in Black Demon King and Qin Yun''s dossiers. At the same time, the cultivators on duty immediately informed the local Jiang Prefecture''s Connate Golden Core experts, Palatial Lord Essence Charm and Peng Yue.

 110 Nine Mountain Island Lords Old Friend

    Chapter 110: Nine Mountain Island Lord''s Old Friend


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sou! Sou!


    The purple and black sword beams flew back, carrying a bunch of items. There were rare and valuable treasures, banknotes and even one ninth-grade Dharma treasure! Qin Yun took out his Cosmic Bag and with a whoosh, all the items flew into it. Then he placed the Cosmic Bag by his waist.


    "Wow." Long Xiaolian widened her eyes as she looked at the treasures that were entering the Cosmic Bag. "Brother Qin Yun¡­" As she spoke, she stole a glance at Yi Xiao beside her.


    "Brother Qin Yun, that''s a lot of treasures." Long Xiaolian coveted them.


    "This bit isn''t even enough to raise my Intrinsic Flying Sword by even half a grade." Qin Yun shook his head and smiled. He had only collected the treasures of the ox demon and other seemingly powerful demon leaders. He was eager to amass more treasures as early as possible to quickly allow his Intrinsic Flying Sword to attain the fifth grade.


    "I came all this way to discuss business but my mother only rewards me with little. Killing and robbing are indeed faster." Long Xiaolian said excitedly. However, the turtle demon beside her said, "Killing the enemy to snatch their treasures might eventually lead to your death. If you were to wantonly murder, that makes you a fiend! On the land, human cultivators will hunt down fiendish demons. In the sea, the East Sea Dragon Palace will also hunt down fiends. As for truly powerful fiendish demons? Which one of them can you beat?"


    "Okay." Long Xiaolian twitched her mouth.


    Yi Xiao glanced at Long Xiaolian with a laugh.


    "Hong Lingtong''s injuries are rather heavy. He needs to return and recuperate." Qin Yun looked at the pale Hong Lingtong and said, "In that case, shall we fly back to Grand Dominance first? I''ll send him back and everyone else can tour Grand Dominance for a few days. As for Golden Qin County, we can return to it after finishing touring Grand Dominance¡­ The journey back would also make it easier for Xiaolian to enter the sea through East Sea County."


    "Alright. It''s a common saying to visit Grand Dominance in March. Now that it''s almost March, it''s the same going to Grand Dominance first." Long Xiaolian did not mind it at all.


    Yi Xiao nodded as well.


    Hong Lingtong said immediately, "Sorry for troubling all of you."


    "Hey, hey. Come on, tell me what did you do. How did you kill that only son of Black Demon King?" Long Xiaolian asked curiously.


    "Boatsman," Qin Yun said as he looked at the old boatsman and his daughter. "We will return straight away. Do you want me to bring the both of you to the nearby provincial city or do you have other plans? That is up to you. As for this boat, I will compensate you with silver. Treat it as though I bought it."


    "There''s no need, no need at all. It''s our good fortune for immortals to ride our boat." The boatsman immediately bowed and said with an obsequious smile. "Besides, the nearest Golden Martial Provincial City is only a couple of kilometers away. It wouldn''t take long to reach it."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Alright then, let''s go." Qin Yun waved his hand, lifting everyone into the air. The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out and expanded to dozens of feet long as it held up the group of people. With a whoosh, it flew into the sky and headed north.


    The boatsman and the boat maiden looked up.


    "Father, the immortal said that he would compensate us with silver. He would even send us to the nearest county city. This boat of ours is only worth fifty taels of silver. The immortal might have easily produced a hundred taels," said the daughter.


    "What do you know?" The boatsman''s wrinkled face was filled with excitement as he looked at the distant demon corpses on the shore. "I saw it clearly. The immortal only took away the treasures of a few powerful demons. There are many demons that the immortal couldn''t be bothered with! This is the luck immortals have bestowed on our Zhang family! Whether our Zhang family strikes it rich will all depend on this. Quickly head for the bank."


    "Okay." The boat maiden nodded immediately as they did their best to steer the boat towards the bank.


    "Father, with so many demons dead, would other demons come? Would immortals come? Will they kill us?" The boat maiden was still a little afraid.


    "That whatever demon king has fled! No demon will rush here temporarily. The other immortals will take time to rush here too. Let''s be quick. Gather some of the loot and leave. Furthermore, the powerful immortal did not think much of the treasures that some of the ordinary demons left behind." As he spoke, the old man jumped onto the bank and immediately began running. Although he was old, he was still at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement realm from his years of work.


    After all, Qi Refinement formulations had proliferated the world. Typical villages would also have people at the third or fourth level of the Qi Refinement realm.


    The old boatsman burst forward at an unprecedented speed and arrived beside the demon corpses. Quickly, he scooped up items from the corpses.


    "Banknotes, gold, golden leaves!" The boatsman rapidly grabbed whatever he could see.


    He searched nearly twenty demon corpses successively.


    "Quick, let''s go." The boatsman ran back to the ship.


    "Why, Father?" the boat maiden asked immediately.


    "I got a big one!" The boatsman widened his eyes as he said hurriedly, "The other demons are very poor. I only got a thousand taels of silver after collecting from more than twenty of them."


    "A thousand?" The boat maiden turned excited.


    "I just got a big one. It has more than twenty thousand in banknotes! Also, there are some treasures. The immortal must have missed out on this powerful demon." The boatsman was extremely excited. "Let''s leave quickly, the faster the better. Our Zhang family is going to be rich! Rich, I tell you!"


    "Alright." The boat maiden nodded immediately.


    "My dear daughter, you will be a daughter of a rich family in the future. I''ll definitely get you a fine man as a husband." The boatsman said with a chuckle.


    The boat maiden''s tanned face that had been weathered by the elements blushed. She began shaking the oars with even greater strength.


    Indeed, Qin Yun''s two flying swords had killed all the demons in the air! He only collected the treasures of demons he considered powerful. In fact, there were two demon leaders that performed poorly when facing the flying sword¡­ They were killed instantly, causing Qin Yun to mistake them for ordinary lesser demons. The old boatsman had looted one of the demon leader''s body, earning a windfall in the process!


    ¡­


    Goat Horn Mountain.


    Phew!


    Black Demon King returned to his lair with the trident in hand and the Five-fire White Bone Beads revolving around him. Only then did he keep his Dharma treasures.


    "Your Majesty! Your Majesty!"


    "His Majesty is back."


    Immediately, demons came forward to welcome him back.


    "Your Majesty, did you catch that cultivator?"


    "Peng!"


    The demon leader that spoke was sent flying backward, slamming into a distant mountain wall. The fall nearly took his life.


    Black Demon King scanned his surroundings coldly. The demons fell silent in fear because it was apparent that their king was in a bad mood.


    "Grand Dominance County''s Qin Yun? How is he that powerful? He''s only twenty-two and he can suppress me. In another few years, wouldn''t I fail to preserve my life in a one-on-one battle with him?" Black Demon King thought to himself. "Forget it! I''ll stay away from that Qin Yun in the future! Furthermore, I was the one that suffered this time and I didn''t kill anyone of his. He probably will not constantly target me."


    Black Demon King was truly a little afraid.


    A twenty-two-year-old was already this terrifying.


    What if he was thirty?


    "Hmph! Goat Horn Mountain is my territory. I have long established powerful array formations so I am definitely safe in Goat Horn Mountain." Black Demon King felt assured in his lair.


    "Brother Goat." Golden Firmament landed beside him with a flash of golden light.


    "Brother Golden Firmament, you sure escaped quickly. You probably reached here earlier than me." Black Demon King shot Golden Firmament a glance.


    "You also know that I''m too weak. I wouldn''t be of much help by the side. If I had charged ahead, what if that Qin Yun attacked with his flying sword? Wouldn''t I be dead?" Golden Qin said immediately with a chuckle.


    Black Demon King nodded slightly and did not speak further. Golden Firmament''s strength was indeed rather weak when it came to head-on clashes.


    "Having suffered so badly, what do you plan on doing, Brother Goat?" Golden Firmament asked.


    Black Demon King frowned slightly and said, "I''ll give it further thought!"


    "That''s right. We demons have long lives. We shouldn''t be too concerned about those short-lived humans." Golden Firmament nodded in agreement.


    "Brother Golden Firmament, I''m not in a good mood so I won''t be entertaining you further," said Black Demon King.


    "Alright. I''ll make a move first." Golden Firmament smiled as he left immediately.


    ¡­


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm and company had received news of the battle from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. They were at the Connate Golden Core realm and were also the leaders among the Jiang Prefecture''s cultivators. They were immediately informed of any serious matters that happened in Jiang Prefecture by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "Oh?" In Scenic Mountain Sect at Vessel Altar County, Palatial Lord Essence Charm was holding on to his purple token. He perceived the news coming from it and the purple Inspect Heavenly Token even projected a series of images of Qin Yun''s battle with Black Demon King.


    "How impressive of Qin Yun. He is improving at a tremendous speed. The last time, he was barely able to use Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam and his moves were relatively simple. Now, his flying sword arts are a lot more brilliant. He can even beat Black Demon King and cause him to flee so pathetically." Palatial Lord Essence Charm nodded slightly. "In my Jiang Prefecture, he is probably ranked in the top five of all the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors."


    Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors in the Jiang Prefecture were categorized into three groups.


    They were the Scenic Mountain Sect, the imperial government, and everyone else. Among the remaining cultivators, there were experts from Daoist or Buddhist sacred lands that were stationed in the Jiang Prefecture! As Jiang Prefecture''s East Sea County was an important area which traded with the East Sea''s Water race, there was no lack of experts being stationed there. Finally, there were the other factions like the Grass Magus Sect, First Great Sect, and the Lunar Magus Temple.


    It was naturally impressive to be ranked in the top five among the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors in the Jiang Prefecture.


    "I have to make this known to the other juniors of the Scenic Mountain Sect and make them strive for improvement. If we can produce a junior that is hard on Qin Yun''s heels, I would probably laugh myself awake." Palatial Lord Essence Charm shook his head gently. "Sigh, I wonder when my Scenic Mountain Sect will be able to be restored to a sacred land of yesteryear."


    ¡­


    Cloud Lake. On Nine Mountain Island.


    In the opulent palace in the depths of Nine Mountain Island.


    On the throne at the top of the grand hall, countless black mist rose and coagulated into a black-robed man. Under his blood-colored brows, his eyes effused a look of puzzlement. "Why would that tiger suddenly look for me? It can''t be for a good reason."


    Although he had such a thought, he gently waved his hand.


    "Buzz." A phantom project appeared in front of him in midair. It was an old demon with a tiger''s head atop a human''s body. He was smiling, eyes filled with good will.


    "Nine Mountain." The old demon said with a smile.


    "Why is a tiger like you suddenly looking for me?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked.


    The old tiger demon widened its gaping jaws as it grinned. "I just heard of a piece of news. The goat demon at Goat Horn Mountain had fought with a cultivator and had to escape in panic. He even abandoned his subordinates."


    "Oh? There are about ten cultivators in Jiang Prefecture that can accomplish such a feat, aren''t there?" Nine Mountain Island Lord asked. "That goat demon is cautious and crafty. He would hide away if he encounters someone he can''t beat. He can''t have overestimated his strength, right?"


    "But he did take action." The tiger demon chuckled. "The cultivator he fought with is even an old friend of yours."


    "Old friend?" Nine Mountain Island Lord frowned.


    The old demon nodded. "That cultivator comes from Grand Dominance County and is named Qin Yun!"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord''s expression immediately stiffened.


    His disciple, Water God, had been killed by Qin Yun! In order to help him obtain the blood of the children''s heart, his junior brother, Gongye Bing, perished! It made Nine Mountain Island Lord''s master somewhat displeased. As for the tiger demon¡­ his standing in Cloudfiend Mountain was in no way inferior to Nine Mountain Island Lord''s. The only difference was that they did not share the same lineage. He had gotten wind that Nine Mountain Island Lord had suffered quite terribly under Qin Yun.


    "This Qin Yun is considered an old friend of yours, right? Fate lies deep for the both of you!" The tiger demon grinned as he laughed joyfully. "By the way, that goat demon had to flee in a panic after being beaten. Your disciple, Golden Firmament, was also present. Why? Didn''t your disciple tell¡ª"


    Before he even finished the statement, the projection in front of him dissipated. Nine Mountain Island Lord had directly cut off their connection.


    "I knew that tiger was up to no good." Nine Mountain Island Lord grunted coldly. "However, that Qin Yun has truly grown too quickly."

 111 Dharma Treasure Robe

    Chapter 111: Dharma Treasure Robe


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Having returned to Grand Dominance City, it was only natural for a local like Qin Yun to warmly entertain Long Xiaolian.


    March in Grand Dominance was truly beautiful. During the times Qin Yun and Yi Xiao accompanied Long Xiaolian, they would tour the lake on a boat or at times listen to the local tunes of Grand Dominance. At times, they would eat delicacies that had a long history. Naturally, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao became closer while accompanying Long Xiaolian.


    "My mother has urgently summoned me back. I can''t continue having fun. Sister, Brother Qin Yun, there''s no need to send me off." Long Xiaolian rubbed her belly. "I think I''ve grown fatter after eating so much in my two weeks in Grand Dominance."


    "Grand Dominance is pretty close to the East Sea. You can come at any time," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "That''s a deal." Long Xiaolian''s eyes lit up.


    Long Xiaolian suddenly chuckled. "Brother Qin Yun, when will I be able to call you Brother-in-law without being scolded by my sister?"


    "I''m leaving!" Long Xiaolian ran off the moment she said that. With the turtle elder leading the way, they left on a cloud.


    "She''s finally gone. All I''ve heard these few days are of her chattering," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    Yi Xiao shot a glance at him and nodded. "Yea, I also think I''ve been slacking too much over the past few days. I haven''t managed to cultivate my Dharmic Dao properly. I''ll return to my residence and cultivate peacefully for a period of time."


    "The cultivation of Dharmic Dao shouldn''t be done alone. It''s best to discuss and exchange ideas on the Dao to achieve greater improvements." Qin Yun said immediately. He could not let Yi Xiao enter seclusive cultivation. Who knew how long her seclusion would be?


    Yi Xiao smiled and nodded gently. "Alright, in three days, we can have a sparring of our Dharmic Dao."


    "I''m actually really interested in seeing the Divine Firmament Chapter''s methods," said Qin Yun immediately.


    With that, Yi Xiao turned and left.


    Regardless, she did not stay in Qin Yun''s house. However, her residence was located near the tiny mirrorlike lake, slightly more than half a kilometer from Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun watched Yi Xiao''s back and felt a sense of anticipation.


    Ever since he escaped into the East Sea, Qin Yun realized his true feelings when he reflected how there was no more hope between him and Yi Xiao. However, he did not plan on being overly eager, afraid that he would scare her away.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao resumed their normal cultivation. However, they also discussed the Dao every three days and sparred in the Dharma every five days. Apart from those activities, they would tour Grand Dominance to enjoy its delicacies.


    Perhaps it was a tiny inconspicuous tavern around the corner or a lavish restaurant. They might even mount the clouds, traveling to the river banks, where they ate fresh catches from the river. At times, they would even get cooks to prepare fish that they had personally caught in the river¡­


    "Uncle Tian."


    In a chamber one day, Yi Xiao contacted her good friend through a communication Dharma treasure. A projection appeared in midair. It was a fat old man with a little gray in his hair. Beside him was a gigantic fire cauldron.


    "Yi Xiao?" The fat elder said with a laugh, "Why are you suddenly looking for me?"


    "I would like a set of eighth-grade Dharma treasure robes," said Yi Xiao.


    "Are there any requests?" asked the elder. "Does it need any Lightning Dharma methods imbued?"


    "No, it''s not for me." Yi Xiao hesitated. "It''s a male Dharma treasure robe."


    "Male?" The elder was astonished.


    "Yea, the robe is for a sword immortal. I wish it''s stronger in the defense aspect. That''s all," said Yi Xiao.


    The elder said in shock, "My dear girl, you want to buy a Dharma treasure robe for a male sword immortal? Furthermore, at my Divine Artisan Lane? Tell me, what''s your relationship with that male sword immortal?"


    Divine Artisan Lane was the best artifact refinement sect in the world.


    The Dharma treasure they produced were all absolutely exquisite items.


    "Don''t delve further. Finish it as soon as possible and send it to Grand Dominance," said Yi Xiao.


    "Grand Dominance? Male sword immortal?" The elder widened his eyes as his mouth curved into a circular smile. "I think I know who it is."


    Yi Xiao''s face blushed slightly as she cut the communication.


    ¡­


    The 15th of June was Qin Yun''s birthday.


    Early that morning, Changlan cooked a portion of longevity noodles personally. She had placed eggs in it as well. It was a birthday custom they had since they were young. Qin Yun finished the large bowl of noodles together with the soup clean.


    After finishing his meal, Qin Yun returned to his own compound.


    Qin Manor was a lot bigger than when it was first given to him by County Governor Wen. With Qin Yun becoming stronger, he needed dedicated chambers for seclusion, practice, as well as ground to meet friends and visitors. Therefore, after paying premium prices, he purchased the surrounding manors in the vicinity and interconnected them. Now, about half of Qin Manor belonged to Qin Yun. He had also set up powerful array formations in the entire Qin Manor.


    "Oh?" When Qin Yun came to a back garden, he saw Yi Xiao, dressed in a pale red robe, sitting on a rock not far from him. She was watching the lake.


    "Yi Xiao," Qin Yun was a little surprised. "Why didn''t you tell me you were coming?"


    Yi Xiao carried the robe that she had placed to her side and handed it to Qin Yun. "I know it''s your birthday today. This is for you."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up when he saw the gift.


    The patterns on the robes were exquisite and they contained runic arrays within. Furthermore, there was a label that could be seen inside the robe. It stunned Qin Yun. "Divine Artisan Lane?"


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao, who was offering the robe up to him. At that moment, she was carrying it with a tiny blush on her face, making Qin Yun find her exceedingly beautiful¡­


    "What are you looking at? Can''t you take it? Do you want me to keep holding on to it?" Yi Xiao said with a blush.


    "Oh!" Qin Yun immediately took it. However, he immediately confirmed that it was an eighth-grade Dharma treasure robe when he sensed it upon receipt.


    "It''s too expensive. This¡­ This¡­" Qin Yun said immediately. "This is an eighth-grade Dharma treasure robe and it''s from Divine Artisan Lane."


    "Didn''t you give me a hair clasp previously? That was an eighth-grade Dharma treasure as well," said Yi Xiao.


    "But that was a hair clasp. This is an entire robe. It''s more precious than ordinary seventh-grade Dharma treasures." Qin Yun said immediately. He was not even willing to splurge it on himself. The treasures left behind by Gongye Bing had been used to raise his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the sixth-grade. The remaining was used to buy the numerous items needed to set up Qin Manor with array formations. Therefore, the remaining Dharma treasure flying swords he bought were at the eighth-grade.


    The robe set was double the cost of the three eighth-grade Dharma treasure flying swords he had.


    "Why didn''t you mention the sixth-grade Dharma treasure, the Blackwater Oxhorn Trident, that was left behind by Water God?" countered Yi Xiao. "Besides¡­ if you really do not want it, I''ll take it back."


    "I want it!" Qin Yun said immediately.


    It was a robe Yi Xiao gave him.


    How could he not want a robe given to him by a woman? At that very moment, Qin Yun truly sensed Yi Xiao''s intentions. It left him delighted.


    "Phew!" He quickly refined the Dharma treasure robe and wore it. Indeed, clothes make the man. Qin Yun immediately turned more handsome.


    Of course, as a Dharma treasure, the robe could increase and decrease in size. The color could change as well. There were varying styles to select from too.


    When Qin Yun sensed the robe, it was indeed suitable for sword immortals. After a sword immortal''s sharp and pure Dharmic powers were produced, it could be converted by the Dharma treasure robe into countless threads twined together that formed a protective layer to envelop his body.


    "Impressive." Qin Yun revealed a look of glee.


    Yi Xiao watched by the side and saw the new look after Qin Yun changed into the Dharma treasure robe. Upon seeing the beams circulating on the robe''s surface, she could not help but say, "Stop showing off. You can slowly figure it out in the future by yourself."


    "Alright." Qin Yun said immediately. The robe returned to normal, making it no different from an ordinary robe.

 112 With the Moon as Witness

    Chapter 112: With the Moon as Witness


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    This was the first time Qin Yun was wearing a Dharma treasure robe. It was very likely that he would not be switching it out for a very long period of time. After all, as a Dharma treasure, it was invulnerable to water and fire and could forever remain clean. In addition, the color and style could be changed. And most importantly, it was given to him by a woman he liked. Qin Yun was naturally happy wearing it.


    In the coming days, the duo would continue discussing the Dao or spar in the Dharma occasionally. The only difference was that they met each other more often.


    Without knowing it, it was already the fifteenth of the eighth lunar month, the mid-autumn festival.


    "Mid-autumn."


    Yi Xiao sat in front of a drawing and looked out the window where a bright moon shone like a round disc. She could even see some of the fireworks set off in Grand Dominance City. It was the night of the mid-autumn, the best day for reunions.


    "Reunion¡­" However, Yi Xiao felt a little down.


    Before her first memory, her mother left her. She did not even know who her mother was.


    At the age of nine, her father had abandoned her heartlessly.


    She had been alone since she was young. Only because of her accomplishments in Qi Refinement did she have a little status in Kunlun Prefecture''s thousand-year-old Yi family clan. After all, such ancient family clans would have a lot of descendants.


    Every mid-autumn, Yi Xiao would feel her loneliness more acutely.


    "Sou!"


    A figure landed inside the courtyard outside the window.


    "Who''s there?" Yi Xiao spoke.


    "It''s me. It''s me." Qin Yun''s voice sounded.


    Only then did Yi Xiao relax slightly as her face suffused a smile. She stood up and walked into the yard. "Seriously, you should have knocked on the door instead of flying in directly. I thought you were some flying bandit."


    "It''s my fault. My fault." Qin Yun said with a smile. Yi Xiao''s residence naturally had servants but he would directly fly to the area outside Yi Xiao''s courtyard and knock on the door. However, it was already late at night and he seldom intruded on her at such times.


    "Why are you here so late into the night?" Yi Xiao looked at him.


    Qin Yun smiled and revealed an oilskin bag he had kept behind him. He opened it and inside, there were quite a number of mooncakes. "This is Zhang-branded mooncakes from the streets. I personally lined up early in the morning because they close at noon. It tastes excellent and there are lines in Grand Dominance just to buy them!"


    Yi Xiao looked at the mooncakes and could not help but feel her eyes moisten. However, she instantly hid her emotions. She said with a laugh, "As a mighty Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, you actually lined up by yourself to buy mooncakes?"


    "I cast a Divine Concealment Spell so no one knew me." Qin Yun responded with a smile. "The line only took me an hour."


    "You could have gotten a servant to buy it for you," said Yi Xiao.


    "The thought matters." Qin Yun smiled as he walked to a stone table. He placed the mooncakes down and sat down. He urged, "Come, quickly take a sit. Admire the moon as we enjoy the mooncakes."


    Yi Xiao walked over and took a seat.


    "Have some." Qin Yun picked a piece of mooncake directly and took a bite. "It smells heavenly."


    Yi Xiao picked one mooncake as well and nibbled on it gently as she watched the bright moon in the sky and the rising fireworks in the distance.


    At that moment, she felt her mood uplifted.


    That sense of loneliness had decreased greatly.


    "One has to eat mooncakes while watching the moon during the mid-autumn festival." Qin Yun said, "Our families in Grand Dominance City usually does this. How does a thousand-year-old family like the Yi family spend the mid-autumn?"


    "The Yi family?" Yi Xiao was slightly taken aback as some memories suffused her mind. She said softly, "There are too many rules in a large family clan. With a heritage of a thousand years, each lineage has no feelings for each other. All they know is to vie for the benefits the family has. It''s too cold and heartless. Those with talent and strength lead better lives. However, the ordinary members that are abandoned or ostracized are really worse off than ordinary commoners."


    "Worse than ordinary commoners?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Yea, some ordinary family members would even secretly live in a city and not reveal that they are part of the Yi family. But even so, they would occasionally encounter others from the family that purposely come to mock them. Some even deliberately bully them." Yi Xiao shook her head. "Let''s not talk about this."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "By the way, let me bring you somewhere." Qin Yun picked up the mooncakes and said immediately.


    "Where to?" Yi Xiao stood up as well.


    "Just follow me and you''ll know." Qin Yun began using a flying art.


    Phew.


    Immediately, mist gathered beneath their feet and rapidly brought them up into the sky. The flying art was a rather difficult Dharma spell. Very few people in the Connate False Core realm could use it. However, be it Qin Yun or Yi Xiao, they cultivated in top heritage and were highly intelligent; hence, they also were able to grasp the flying art.


    Compared to Sword Kinesis Flight, common flying arts were a lot slower but it was stabler and more comfortable.


    "Swoosh."


    While riding the clouds, Qin Yun brought Yi Xiao towards the moon as they flew east.


    They flew out of Grand Dominance City and to the Lanyang River before they continued east of it¡­


    "Where are we going?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "You''ll know in a while." Qin Yun did not let on.


    The further east they flew, the wider the Lanyang River became as they approached the East Sea.


    Soon.


    "We''re here." Qin Yun came to a stop.


    This was a circuitous mouth at the end of the Lanyang River, also known as Circuitous Baymouth. There was a strong tidal current every year during mid-autumn in the mouth leading to the East Sea. It was also a famous sight¡ªGrand Dominance Tidal Current!


    "Grand Dominance Tidal Current?" Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up as she made a correct guess.


    "That''s right. The best of the three great tidal currents in the world, the Grand Dominance Tidal Current." Qin Yun nodded.


    Circuitous Baymouth was beneath them. The river''s surface was broad and very peaceful. The bright moon was reflected on the river''s surface. But from afar, one could see a white line that stretched across the entire sea. It appeared calm but as the white line approached the river''s mouth, the entire tidal wave rose to a height that towered over the river''s surface like a stampeding team of horses. Like thousands of horses, the tidal current stampeded up the river. And the spots that were not inundated by the tidal current remained extremely calm.


    The bright moon hung high in the sky, and beneath it, the couple sat on clouds as took in everything. And indeed, the beauty was absolutely breathtaking.


    "Grand Dominance Tidal Current is extremely terrifying. It''s fine watching it from afar but when it comes nearer, especially when it hits the bay, it sounds louder than thunder." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "I see." Yi Xiao nodded gently as she took in the beautiful scenery.


    The river''s surface reflected the bright moon as Grand Dominance Tidal Current surged down a path. With Qin Yun by her side, Yi Xiao felt that this was the happiest mid-autumn she had spent ever since she separated from her father.


    "Have some mooncake." Qin Yun handed a mooncake that was wrapped in oilskin to Yi Xiao. She turned her head and accepted it with a smile before eating it.


    Qin Yun also picked up another one to eat for himself.


    Admiring the moon, the Grand Dominance Tidal Current¡­ and a beauty¡­


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao''s side profile and the scene of the beautiful moon and the beauty left a deep impression in his memory. He felt that he would never forget it for the rest of his life.


    None of them spoke.


    Yi Xiao turned to look at Qin Yun, who was sitting beside her. She smiled too.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun looked over.


    Their gaze met.


    The sounds coming from Grand Dominance Tidal Current''s waters were still gentle. The moon was a blur momentarily. Under the moonlight, Yi Xiao looked like a fairy from a dream. Looking at the woman he loved, Qin Yun could not help but lunge forward for a kiss. None of it went through his mind but his action was motivated by his very heart. He could not curb his emotions as he kissed her. Yi Xiao was momentarily stunned seeing Qin Yun''s approaching kiss. She froze up and did not react at all nor did she reject it.


    Their lips met.


    How soft¡­


    Qin Yun felt as though he had immersed himself in a cloud as his mind went blank and his heart raced.


    That instant seemed very short and also very long. Even though cultivators were able to have a precise take on time, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao did not know how much time had passed. The only witness to this scene was the bright moon in the sky!


    They heard a sonorous boom that was louder than thunder. The Grand Dominance Tidal Current finally struck the bay and shot up more than a hundred feet, inundating the bay''s surroundings.


    The terrifying sound jolted Qin Yun and Yi Xiao from their reverie.


    Yi Xiao immediately retreated as she widened her eyes. The usually calm her felt her heart racing as she turned flustered.


    Qin Yun blinked as well. Had¡­ Had he kissed her? How did he kiss her? Why did he do that just now? Wasn''t he always worried that he would be too imposing?


    "I¡­" Yi Xiao''s face blushed red all the way to her ears. She looked at the radiant moon in the sky and said immediately, "It''s no longer early. Let''s go back now."


    Phew.


    Riding a cloud, Yi Xiao flew straight for Grand Dominance County.


    "She isn''t mad." Qin Yun, who was feeling rather flustered, turned excited as his eyes lit up.


    "Wait for me!" Qin Yun shouted immediately as he chased behind her while riding a cloud.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao and Qin Yun flew onward, with one behind the other. Yi Xiao ignored him the entire journey until she returned to her residence.


    "It''s no longer early. Go back and have a rest." Yi Xiao said before flying into her yard.


    "Yi Xiao, let''s have crab tomorrow. It''s the best season for crabs." Qin Yun said immediately.


    Yi Xiao did not reply.


    She went straight into the room and closed the door.


    In midair, Qin Yun began to panic. "Did I take things too fast today? Did I scare her? Why did I do that¡­" Qin Yun had chaotic thoughts running through his mind.


    "Alright, tomorrow at noon." A voice came out of the room.


    Qin Yun''s eyes immediately lit up as he revealed an ecstatic look while clenching his fists tightly.


    "Alright, tomorrow at noon!" Qin Yun replied quickly and immediately returned home.


    Inside a room.


    The lights were lit as Yi Xiao sat in front of her dresser, looking at her reflection. She felt her face boiling hot as she could not help but recall the scene that happened above the river. Under the bright moon, they had shared a kiss above the clouds.


    "Why, why did I¡­" Yi Xiao''s burning face took a long while to return to normal. After exhaling gently, the corners of her mouth curled up ever so slightly. She smiled. "I never expected him to be so gutsy¡­"


    "It''s good anyway. It''s good." Yi Xiao looked at herself in the mirror and spoke to herself.


    ******


    Back at home, Qin Yun was extremely excited as he felt his blood boiling. He did not feel sleepy at all despite lying in bed! He could not help but recall the scenes that had happened just a while ago.


    "She''s not mad. She doesn''t mind. She still agreed to go out with me tomorrow¡­" No matter how silly Qin Yun was, he understood her thoughts.


    Qin Yun rolled, climbed out of bed, and walked out the house.


    In his yard, he beckoned with his hand and with a whoosh, a jug of alcohol flew out from a room beside him. Qin Yun took a swig at the jug and drank large mouthfuls of it, staining his clothes with alcohol.


    "It feels great." Qin Yun threw the finished jug aside and turned to fly to a corner of the yard.


    Flipping his hand, a silver flying sword appeared in his palm. It rapidly expanded to three feet in length.


    "Come on!" Qin Yun did not know where to vent his excessive excitement. He began engaging in swordplay as his blade shimmered under the moonlight. It was like smoke or agile raindrops¡­ The sword flashes were filled with infinite joy and happiness.

 113 Sword Intent Second Level

    Chapter 113: Sword Intent Second Level


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As he did his utmost while engaging in his swordplay, the sweat his body produced and the blood that boiled within him made him feel hotter.


    It was already autumn, making it rather cold deep into the night. However, Qin Yun only felt hotter the more he engaged in his swordplay. His brain felt the hottest. With a beckon of his hand, another jar of alcohol flew out. Grabbing it with his left hand and wielding his sword in the other, he drank and continued with his unrestrained swordplay! He did not care for time nor bother what sword art he was using.


    The sword flashes became more agile, wanton and joyful.


    Gradually, Qin Yun immersed himself in his swordplay. Throwing the alcohol jar aside, his head no longer felt hot. The burning blood coursing through his veins slowly calmed down. However, his mind turned empty, without any distractions. He infused all his pleasure and joy into the sword art.


    "My sword arts of the past were a little too cold. Humans have the feelings of pleasure, anger, sorrow, and joy. It is the same with sword arts. It too should have pleasure and joy." Qin Yun''s sword arts were changing.


    "Phew¨C"


    The sword flashes gradually seemed to manifest a swimming dragon of mist. The appearance of the sword flashes seemed like misty dragons swimming around with unfettered flair.


    The misty dragons gradually turned blurry and transformed into an indistinct phantom dragon formed from water droplets.


    Woosh! Rip!


    The sword flashes tore through the sky. They did not contain any Quintessential Essence but were produced from the most routine sword arts, yet they contained terrifying and unfathomable strength.


    Qin Yun continued without regard for a while. Even the dragon phantom vanished along with the water droplets, leaving behind only an ordinary sword. However, when the sword flash shimmered, it would appear even more mysterious. The sword''s speed alternated between slow and quick. When it was fast, it was faster than the flying sword''s Rainbow Blooming Sword Beam yet it was done with ease.


    Phew! Phew!


    It was not only the sword. Even Qin Yun''s motions would occasionally produce a burst of speed as though he was teleporting. Technically speaking, at certain speed thresholds, a sonic boom would result but Qin Yun moved like an elegant sword flash that was without sound.


    Finally, Qin Yun reached a refractory state.


    He naturally kept his sword and sat cross-legged on the yellowed grass. He kept the Intrinsic Flying Sword into his body which transformed into a sword ball in his dantian.


    "Weng!"


    He seemed ordinary sitting cross-legged but if a true expert were here to sense him, they would see that there was a horrifying amount of sword intent soaring into the sky. Even fifty feet around him was completely permeated with sword intent.


    "This feeling sure is bewildering." Qin Yun sat cross-legged and was long able to release his psyche. But at that moment, every blade of grass, sand particle, or speck of floating dust in a fifty-feet radius, and even the soil deep beneath him, the water table, and gravel were enveloped by his sword intent.


    In the past, the sword intent enveloped objects.


    For instance, it was contained within the sword and could be blasted outwards. But now, the sword intent was so powerful that it naturally spread outwards. It even permeated every object in a fifty-feet radius.


    "Sword Intent Unleashed, Naturally Formed Domain. My sword intent has already reached this state?" Qin Yun felt a faint sense of joy and satisfaction. "Tonight might be my luckiest day."


    Following that, he did not continue thinking further. He focused and began to learn from the experience he obtained from the sword intent.


    ¡­


    During normal cultivation, typically only at the Connate False Core realm would cultivators manage to perceive the heaven and earth, attaining Heaven Man Unity after nurturing their mind to a sufficiently high state! This was extremely rare even in the False Core realm. Of course, this was only limited to human cultivators. For fiendish demons, they might be strong in combat but they were much weaker at perceiving the heaven and earth when compared to humans.


    One could only ruminate over the Heavenly Dao after attaining Heaven Man Unity. With the accumulation of time, there would come a day when one would gain enlightenment over the implications over the Heavenly Dao, however tiny it may be. If one was a sword immortal, this bit of insight could be transformed into sword intent.


    Therefore¡­


    Under normal circumstances, only a small number of Connate True Core realm cultivators could grasp that little bit of charm of the Heavenly Dao.


    And at a higher state, long periods of cultivation would only constantly fortify one''s insights into the Heavenly Dao''s charms. Come one day, it would experience a qualitative change. The Heavenly Dao charms could even be projected outwards, enveloping a region. This was the so-called Sword Intent Unleashed, Naturally Formed Domain. This also represented the second realm! Even among Connate Golden Core experts, only a small number of them had the chance of approaching the second level after spending a long time in the Golden Core realm.


    As for Qin Yun?


    He was a sword immortal of legends!


    When he was in the Postnatal realm, he did not even have Heaven Man Unity. Just through the cultivation of the sword, his heart aligned with the sword as he roamed the world. While risking his life in the northern borders, his life and his brothers'' lives depended on the sword. Finally, he was enlightened with the Misty Rain Sword Intent on the battlefield. It was Expertise Nearing Dao, with his skill reaching a natural apex and through such an opportunity, he grasped sword intent with a special state of mind.


    This meant that Qin Yun possessed a Heart of the Sword and he innately would pursue the true nature of the sword.


    Without Heaven Man Unity, he could not perceive the Heavenly Dao; yet, he had managed to achieve that step.


    After attaining Heaven Man Unity and killing Water God, he experienced tumultuous changes. He improved at an exponential rate! There were improvements every day and the daily insights accumulated. This was also the reason that great fiendish demons would hunt down legendary sword immortals the moment they were exposed! For him to gain insight into sword intent without attaining Heaven Man Unity was truly an occurrence that appeared once in several centuries. After attaining Heaven Man Unity, he naturally could soar to the nine heavens!


    At the age of twenty, he had gained insights into the Misty Rain Sword Intent on the battlefield.


    At the age of twenty-one, he attained Heaven Man Unity, allowing him to slay Water God.


    At the age of twenty-two, having attained Heaven Man Unity for about a year, his hard work under the full moon allowed his sword intent to finally experience a qualitative change. It stepped into the second realm of sword intent¡ª''Sword Intent Unleashed, Naturally Formed Domain''!


    ******


    Sword intent raised one''s strength in every aspect.


    For example, the nurturing and cultivation of an Intrinsic Flying Sword took even shorter amounts of time. Even the quality of the materials was lowered. Back when Qin Yun first grasped the Misty Rain Sword Intent, he was able to shorten the time to cultivate an Intrinsic Flying Sword by ten times. However, the requirement for the materials remained the same. And if he reached the second realm of sword intent, the time needed for the cultivation of his Intrinsic Flying Sword would be halved. The number of materials required would be greatly reduced as well.


    If he could truly grasp Sword Dao as depicted by legends, he could refine an ordinary weapon into a Dharma treasure simply with the nourishment of the Sword Dao even without any materials!


    Sword intent was the nurturement of the soul. It enhanced one''s Quintessential Essence cultivation, dantian, and meridians in every aspect. Especially with the breakthrough he just had, the all-rounded enhancement left Qin Yun immersed in it.


    ¡­


    He sat cross-legged in the yard till it was bright. Qin Yun opened his eyes as he basked in the warm sunlight.


    "It''s the second day. I''ll have to accompany Yi Xiao to have some crabs at noon today." Qin Yun stood up immediately. "I have to make some preparations and get the biggest and best crabs."


    Immediately, he prepared for lunch.


    When it was almost noon, Qin Yun landed outside Yi Xiao''s inner courtyard.


    "Young Master Qin." The maidservants outside were rather polite. There were a few who let out uncontrolled giggles as they had seen Qin Yun come often.


    "Knock. Knock. Knock." Qin Yun knocked on the door.


    "Yi Xiao! Yi Xiao, it''s me!" Qin Yun shouted.


    After a while, the door opened as Yi Xiao, who was dressed in pale red robes, walked out. The clothes accentuated her red cheeks as she shot a glance at Qin Yun.


    "Let''s go and have some crab." Qin Yun said warmly.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    The duo walked out together.


    As they watched the couple leave, the maidservants in the courtyard began murmuring.


    "This Young Master Qin frequently visits Missus. Why do I think that they are a lot closer today? Look at them standing side by side. Their shoulders are almost touching." A fat maidservant said in a hushed tone.


    "I also think something isn''t right. Look at the way Missus looks at him. Wow, even I feel my heart palpitating." A petite maidservant said immediately.


    "Do you think it''s possible that Young Master Qin and Missus have already¡­" A maidservant touched her index fingers together.


    "Cut it out. Do you have a death wish to say something like that?"


    "Speak less. Don''t be heard or we''ll be chased out."


    ******


    Yi Xiao cultivated in the Lightning Dharma and she too had her pride. However, when her heart recognized the one, she would become a lot milder. The both of them met almost daily and not like every other day or two of the past.


    One day, Yi Xiao walked alone on the street and browsed the stalls. She stopped in front of a stall that sold old books because she knew Qin Yun liked them. Of course, it referred to old book collections that contained sword arts.


    "This book." Yi Xiao was naturally knowledgeable. She picked up an ancient book and browsed through it. She felt that the sword arts demonstrated in the book seem to keenly impose palpitations within her heart. Of course, such sword art books could not be sold for a lot. After all, Qi Refinement and the knocking open of the gate of immortality were the foundations. Weapon art books were common when Qi Refinement techniques proliferated the world. Even villages had several who practiced Qi Refinement.


    "It looks pretty extraordinary. Qin Yun should like it." Yi Xiao''s face suffused a faint smile.


    "I want this book. How much is it?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Miss, this is obtained from our Grand Dominance''s Sword Immortal Manor''s Qin Manor! My second uncle''s cousin was a servant at his place¡­" The hawker began boasting.


    "Tell me the price." Yi Xiao looked at him.


    The hawker raised up five fingers and said, "Five taels of silver! That''s an honest price!"


    "One tael of silver, and I''ll take it," bargained Yi Xiao.


    "Alright, one tael of silver it is." The hawker smiled immediately. The price of such old books was susceptible to wild speculation. A tael of silver was his income after two months of hard work! He originally believed that selling it for two to three-tenths of a tael of silver would be quite a great sale. This was only because the book itself was considered a valuable item.


    After putting down one tael of silver, Yi Xiao kept the book.


    Just as she turned to leave, Yi Xiao saw a figure in the distance.


    Far ahead, there was a man and woman that looked like a married couple. It was only because Yi Xiao was a Connate False Core realm cultivator that she was able to notice at a glance. Furthermore, that figure had appeared in her dreams numerous times, so how could she forget it?


    "Father?" Yi Xiao''s expression changed.

 114 Yi Xiaos Father

    Chapter 114: Yi Xiao''s Father


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Although her father, Yi Caishi, lacked talent in cultivation, he had also knocked open the gate of immortality. Therefore, he did not look too different from eleven years ago.


    "Who''s that woman beside him?" Yi Xiao could only see the woman''s side profile. "Why is she so intimate with Father?"


    Yi Xiao repressed the agitation in her heart as she carefully followed them from afar.


    And on the other side.


    "Caishi, Grand Dominance might be quite nice now, but we should have come in March. It''s said that March is when it looks best." The purple-dressed woman said as she clung to Yi Caishi''s arm.


    "Third Madam, didn''t you say that I have to accompany you to every city in the world? By visiting one city after another, it''s already autumn when we reached Grand Dominance. Why don''t we come again in March next year?" Yi Caishi said with a smile. He looked slightly older than thirty but he had a scholarly look and was rather handsome. He had a smile that warmed people, and it was this smile that had smitten the purple-dressed woman.


    The purple-dressed woman said with a chuckle, "There''s no rush. Let''s come to that after we finish touring the world. The world is so large with its myriad of cities both big and small. We haven''t even visited half of them all. Let''s talk about it again after we are done."


    "As you wish." Yi Caishi said with a smile.


    "Okay." The purple-dressed woman smiled sweetly in return.


    The couple walked without heeding their surroundings as they took in the sights. Occasionally, they would buy some snacks at the hawker stalls by the roadside and in a while, it was noon.


    As for Yi Xiao, she followed them a kilometer away. The more she saw, the more anxious and puzzled she became. "Who is this woman? Why is my father so intimate with her? Is she my mother? Or is she some other woman? Is she the reason why my father has never come to see me after the age of nine?" Upon thinking back to how her father had never visited her once but engaged in such intimacy with the woman, Yi Xiao felt even more upset.


    At noon.


    Yi Caishi and the purple-dressed woman returned to their temporary residence in Grand Dominance City. It was a rather large manor.


    Inside the manor.


    "Princess." A voice transmission sounded in the purple-dressed woman''s ear.


    She turned around and saw a hunchbacked elder standing far away around a bend. He nodded at her slightly.


    "I''ll have a chat with Elder Sun," said the purple-dressed woman.


    "Sure." Yi Caishi proceeded into the inner compound.


    The purple-dressed woman walked over to the hunchbacked elder and asked, "Elder Sun, what''s the matter?"


    The elder whispered, "Princess, when both of you were out, a woman was secretly trailing the both of you."


    "Following me and Caishi?" A cold glint flashed in the purple-dressed woman''s eyes. "Who wants to deal with me?"


    "We have already locked onto her. She''s currently in the manor," said the elder. Suddenly, he frowned and added, "That woman has already flown into the manor. She is heading for Yi Caishi."


    "Protect Caishi well," said the purple-dressed woman immediately.


    "Don''t worry. We have set up an array formation in this manor," said the elder. "We know her every move in the manor."


    "Caishi is only an ordinary cultivator with no standing in the Yi family. Find out who she is and why she''s pursuing Caishi." The purple-dressed woman frowned as she headed for the inner compound with the hunchbacked elder.


    ¡­


    In the inner compound.


    Yi Xiao cast an Invisibility Spell and silently entered the compound. When she flew into the manor, she had discovered her father already in the inner compound.


    In a small yard in the inner compound.


    Just as Yi Caishi was about to enter a study, he suddenly realized a female silhouette standing in the corridor beside him.


    "Oh?" Yi Caishi turned his head to give a careful look. Instantly, his expression changed. The woman was looking at him with tears in her eyes.


    "Xiao''er." Yi Caishi felt disbelief. "Why, why are you here¡­"


    "Father, so you still recognize me." Yi Xiao looked at the scholarly and handsome man. She could not help it as tears streamed down her cheeks. "It''s been eleven years. Eleven years! Father, how could you steel your heart and not seek me. Can you tell me why you are this heartless? Why didn''t you ever come looking for me? Why!?"


    "I¡­ I¡­"


    Yi Caishi wanted to say something.


    All these years, he had been secretly been keeping up with news of his daughter. He could recognize her at a glance as he had long seen a picture of a grown-up Yi Xiao.


    "I''ve let you down." Yi Caishi said softly.


    "Tell me. Why did you do it?" Yi Xiao''s eyes were red as she stared at the man in front of her with tears gushing out her eyes. He was her father, her only relative in the past! Now, there was an additional Qin Yun in her heart but she could not get over her father. She never understood why her father had abandoned her.


    "Father, do you hate me?" Yi Xiao asked. "Do you think of me as a burden that will affect your good times with that woman?"


    "You¡­"


    Yi Caishi looked angered but when he saw his crying daughter, he sighed with a heart filled with shame. "Don''t ask any further. It was all my fault. I was selfish and heartless. Yi Xiao, you are grown up now. You are also a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. You can already take care of yourself. In the future, it''s best we not meet again. Forget that I was ever your father!"


    Yi Xiao''s face drained of its color as her body quivered.


    Although she was filled with rage and sadness, he was still her father. She still wanted to reunite with him! But after anticipating this reunion for eleven years, her father had told her to forget that he was ever her father. He even proposed that they never meet again.


    "Father, how can you be so heartless? What made you ostracize me, that you would not want your daughter?" Yi Xiao looked at Yi Caishi.


    "Xiao''er, I didn''t ostracize you." Yi Caishi frowned as he bellowed. "Leave, let''s not meet ever again."


    ¡­


    Not far away, outside the yard''s entrance, the purple-dressed woman and the hunchbacked elder were being concealed by the array formation as they watched the scene play out inside the yard.


    "So she''s the daughter of Caishi and that slut." The purple-dressed woman chuckled. In the deep recesses of her eyes were coldness. "I remember her name is Yi Xiao, a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple. Hmph, she sure is pretty. That slut must be equally beautiful. It''s no wonder she managed to seduce Caishi. This Yi Xiao is likely also a seductive slut."


    "Princess," the elder asked in a hushed tone. "How shall we deal with this Yi Xiao? Should we send her to the door, or?"


    "Hmph! How can it be as simple as sending her to the door?" The purple-dressed woman laughed as she glanced at the elder beside her. "Elder Sun, do you think I have turned soft-hearted after all these years of having Caishi accompany in my travels?"


    The elder smiled obsequiously. "Princess, you had previously promised Yi Caishi, so I thought you would only want to send that Yi Xiao off."


    The purple-dressed woman said indifferently, "Yes, I promised him that but he had also promised me to never meet his daughter, that he would dedicate himself to accompanying me and compensate me. But now, he has not held up his side of the promise, so it''s no longer my fault."


    "Yes," answered the elder immediately.


    "That slut has run and vanished. I shall let that slut''s daughter have a taste of everything I suffered," said the purple-dressed woman with a chuckle.


    The elder listened to her obediently. He knew very well that the princess was sixteen years old back then. Her heart had been given to Yi Caishi and she was extremely naive. But ever since she was heartbroken by Yi Caishi, she had a drastic change in personality. Her schemes turned more brilliant and with her wielding power, it made many people willing to pledge their allegiance to her.


    "Swoosh."


    The purple-dressed woman took a stride and walked out of the concealment region of the array formation.


    Yi Caishi and Yi Xiao turned their heads over and saw the smiling purple-dressed woman walk over. The way the purple-dressed woman smiled at Yi Xiao while she looked at her was as though she was seeing fish on the cutting board.


    "Third Madam! Third Madam!" However, Yi Caishi was panicking in horror. He said immediately, "She only happened to enter. Why aren''t you leaving now!?" Saying that, he glared angrily at Yi Xiao.


    "Since you are here, there''s no need to leave!" The purple-dressed woman said with a chuckle.


    ******


    And elsewhere, at Yi Xiao''s residence.


    Qin Yun came outside the small yard and was about to knock on the door.


    "Young Master Qin, our Missus isn''t back yet." A maidservant said from the outside immediately.


    "She''s not back? We agreed on having lunch together." Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. "When did she leave?"


    "It has been more than two hours," replied the maidservant.


    "It''s already noon. Where did she go?" Qin Yun was puzzled.

 115 Save Me!

    Chapter 115: Save Me!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside the manor, Yi Xiao looked at the purple-dressed woman that had an air of aristocracy in her eyes. When she saw her face, Yi Xiao could not help but say, "You are the Zhongli family''s Princess Martial Maple?"


    "You actually recognize me." The purple-dressed woman smiled.


    Yi Xiao knew very well.


    The Kong Prefecture''s Zhongli family and the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family were the few thousand-year-old families in the world. They were all conferred royal titles by the imperial government.


    To be conferred the title of ''Princess Martial Maple'', the reason was none other than her being the daughter of the Zhongli family''s patriarch. Common women from the Zhongli family had no right to call themselves princesses.


    "What relationship do you have with my father?" Yi Xiao looked at Yi Caishi before looking back at the purple-dressed woman in front of her.


    "Leave quickly. Stop asking any further." Yi Caishi shouted anxiously.


    Princess Martial Maple said, "Young lady, don''t you worry. I won''t be able to give birth to a daughter like you. Only a slut like your mother can bear such a child."


    Yi Xiao''s expression changed immediately.


    "Third Madam," Yi Caishi said hurriedly, "Let Xiao''er go. I promised you never to meet her again. I will do it. It was her who came here herself."


    "That''s none of my business. You have met her and right in front of me." Princess Martial Maple said with a smile, "Do it, take her down!"


    "Yes."


    Voices sounded from around the inner compound.


    Boom! The array formation within the compound triggered. During Princess Martial Maple''s tour of the world, every place she stayed at would naturally have array formations set up. The defenses were not inferior to those at County Governor Manor.


    Princess Martial Maple retreated as she watched everything unfold with a smile.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh¡­" Five Connate False Core realm cultivators, including the hunchbacked elder, controlled an array formation together in a collective assault! Instantly, golden ropes flew within the compound, with one of them binding Yi Caishi. He could not put up any resistance as he was hurled to the side of Princess Martial Maple.


    Following that, golden ropes began to encroach towards Yi Xiao.


    However, Yi Xiao flipped her hand.


    "I summon the lightning!"


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Five gray and blurry lightning bolts flew out from her palm, hurtling in five separate directions. It was also the five spots that Yi Xiao vaguely figured were the operation nexus of the array formation. She also found it troubling. "There''s a very powerful array formation inside this manor. It can isolate the Heaven and Earth powers! I can only use a portion of the Heaven and Earth powers within the manor."


    This was the main Lightning Dharma that Yi Xiao was presently cultivating in¡ªDivine Lightning of Connate Breath!


    It was much more powerful compared to her fight with Water God when she used the False Core Pill and Dao talismans to cast Divine Lightning of Connate Breath. If she cultivated it to perfection, she would be qualified to cultivate the strongest Lightning Dharma in the Divine Firmament Chapter¡ªDivine Firmament Lightning Dharma.


    "It''s the Divine Lightning of Connate Breath."


    "Five Revolutions Array Formation."


    The five Connate False Core cultivators remained calm and confident.


    They were in-name disciples of the Zhongli Patriarch. They cultivated extraordinary heritage and the collective strength of the quintet was no weaker than that of a Connate True Core realm cultivator. What''s more, they had the array formation that accentuated their combined strength!


    Golden ropes began to spiral over as Divine Lightning of Connate Breath struck them. The golden ropes took the initiative to parry them and could completely withstand the bolts. Furthermore, there was a golden rope barrier that was rapidly bearing down on her.


    "Oh?" As she cast a Dao talisman in one hand, she conjured lightning in the other!


    Her entire being felt like a ghost.


    Unfortunately, with her trapped in an array formation, there was no way she could step out of the inner compound! The golden ropes completely filled the tiny area, making it worse for Yi Xiao, who was not adept at combat in close quarters.


    "She sure can struggle." Princess Martial Maple smiled as she watched. "In terms of strength, she can match a Connate True Core realm cultivator. Unfortunately, she''s trapped in the array formation and there''s no way for her to escape."


    "Yes. She will eventually be taken down no matter how much she struggles." A white-haired elder said with a smile from the side.


    "Third Madam, let her go," Yi Caishi pleaded.


    "I won''t do much to her on your account. Just a little torment." Princess Martial Maple glanced at Yi Caishi. "If you disappoint me, don''t blame me for being heartless."


    Yi Caishi felt anxious and helpless.


    The white-haired elder beside said with a smile, "Junior Sister Martial Maple, do you need me to take action? This Yi Xiao seems to have many means of life-preservation. She is quite a tenacious one."


    "It''s fine." Princess Martial Maple chuckled. "Isn''t it rather interesting to watch? By the way, the battle in here cannot be sensed from outside, right? Silver Peak Monastery''s Reverend Immense Sea is now a guest at County Governor Manor. We have even visited him previously. It wouldn''t be good if he were to intervene."


    "Don''t worry. Many array formations isolate themselves from perception, cutting off all fluctuations. One will not sense any fluctuation even by standing outside our compound." The white-haired elder said confidently.


    "That''s good." Princess Martial Maple nodded.


    As they spoke, Yi Xiao tried every means she had. She even used her Dharma treasures but as she was trapped inside an array formation, she was finally bound by a golden rope. Soon, she was tied to a pillar.


    "Seal off her Dharmic powers." Princess Martial Maple instructed.


    And at that moment, Yi Xiao knew that things were going south.


    She finally could not ward the menacing golden ropes off. Just before she was tied up, she immediately used her communication treasure she carried with her and sent a message to Qin Yun, "East of the city, Jadebelt River. Inside a compound. Save me!"


    Phew.


    After sending her plea for help, immense Dharmic powers began sealing her Dharmic powers through the golden ropes!


    ******


    Outside the inner compound of Yi Xiao''s residence.


    Qin Yun was still waiting.


    "Why isn''t she here yet?" Qin Yun was feeling anxious and puzzled. "It doesn''t make sense for Yi Xiao to do this with no reason."


    "Young Master Qin, wait a little while longer. Missus might have been delayed by something," said a maidservant.


    Qin Yun''s expression suddenly changed as he flipped his hand to reveal the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Powerful cultivators typically had communication treasures. For example, Gongye Bing had one back then. After entering the Connate realm, Yi Xiao was bestowed one by the Divine Firmament Chapter. Qin Yun''s Inspect Heavenly Token could also exchange messages. With his present relationship with Yi Xiao, they had long left behind their mark on the communication treasures, allowing them to communicate with each other.


    "East of the city, Jadebelt River. Inside a compound. Save me!"


    A line of text surfaced within the azure-colored Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed the moment he saw it.


    "Save me?"


    Yi Xiao needed saving!


    She was calling for help!


    "Who dares attack Yi Xiao!?" Qin Yun''s eyes went red as his silver flying sword instantly grew to a length of three feet as he stepped onto it.


    Sou!


    Instantly, he transformed into a beam of light that tore through the sky, heading straight for the east.


    Although the western part of the city was rather far from the eastern part of the city, Qin Yun was very fast. In a few seconds, he had arrived at Jadebelt River.


    "Where?"


    Standing on the flying sword in midair, he surveyed his surroundings.


    Surrounding the area that resembled the wealthy residences around the mirror-like lake. The manors neatly lined the Jadebelt River and there were many pedestrians on the street. Everything was peaceful and quiet. Qin Yun overlooked the surroundings and failed to find any battles in the vicinity or any special commotion.


    Heaven Man Unity could not sense any fluctuations at all!


    "Where is it? Where is Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun panicked.


    "Right, search the area." Qin Yun instantly reacted. "Now, the release of my psyche through my Intrinsic Flying Sword can reach two thousand feet! The Jadebelt River area isn''t that big either!"


    Qin Yun immediately conducted a carpet search.


    The area around Jadebelt River was only a few kilometers long.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword''s perception could envelop an area of about a kilometer but Jadebelt River was a meandering river so as Qin Yun flew along the river, he checked everywhere. About ten seconds passed.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly turned his head to look at a manor beneath him. "My perception is unable to penetrate that manor! There must be an array formation sealing it!"


    Powerful array formations such as the array formation at County Governor Manor could typically isolate its ward from external perception.


    "In all of Grand Dominance City, other than County Governor Manor and my Qin family, there is another place that is impervious to my senses? Yi Xiao must be there!"


    Boom!


    Qin Yun instantly controlled his flying sword.


    Accompanied by a loud rumble, the Intrinsic Flying Sword brought with it a terrifying might that pressed down from the heavens. It crashed straight down into the manor as he plunged down behind it while atop a black flying sword.


    ¡­


    Inside the manor.


    Yi Xiao had been tied to a pillar and Princess Martial Maple walked over with a smile. When she stood in front of her, she raised Yi Xiao''s chin. "What a beautiful woman. Your beauty is enough to make me envious. Back then, that slut must have been very pretty as well, allowing her to seduce Caishi and making him leave me." With that said, she looked sideways at Yi Caishi.


    Yi Caishi had a complicated expression as he said hurriedly, "Third Madam, let Xiao''er go. Everything that happened between us has nothing to do with Xiao''er."


    "I can''t find that slut and there''s nowhere to vent my anger all this time." Princess Martial Maple looked at Yi Xiao. "Besides, it''s only right for a daughter to pay for her mother''s crimes."


    "I want to let her experience everything I endured in the past." Princess Martial Maple''s eyes were cold and maniacal. "Such beauty. There must be many people pursuing you. Perhaps, you already have a beau?"


    Yi Xiao glared at her.


    Mother¡­


    This was the first time she knew so much about her mother.


    "Tell me, will those that pursue you or are even intimate with you still be mesmerized by you after they discover that you have turned ugly?" Princess Martial Maple flipped her hand and produced a knife. Simultaneously, she said, "Senior Brother, prepare some poison powder. In a while, I''ll pour it onto her wounds, preventing her scars from ever healing."


    As she spoke, the blade slashed across Yi Xiao''s face.


    Yi Xiao glared at her with reddened eyes as well as her father, Yi Caishi.


    "Third Madam." Yi Caishi rushed over to stop her.


    Princess Martial Maple waved her hand.


    Phew.


    She threw Yi Caishi far away. When he fell to the ground, he looked up into the distance and a golden rope flew over to bind him. As he watched Princess Martial Maple slash at his daughter''s face, he immediately felt his heart wince as he shouted angrily, "Third Madam, Xiao''er is innocent!''


    "That''s why I''m only making her ugly." Princess Martial Maple had already slashed down once. Immediately, blood gushed out Yi Xiao''s face but she remained silent. All she did was look at the distant Yi Caishi.


    Her father had truly disappointed her.


    "Will Qin Yun still like me after I become ugly?" At that moment, Yi Xiao felt an upheaval of emotions. She looked at her distant father again. Disappointment and her mixed emotions caused her to tear.


    "She''s crying! Crying! A beauty''s tears sure winces the heart. However, you won''t be a beauty in the future." Princess Martial Maple slashed at Yi Xiao''s face again and again. "Cultivators can easily recover from such superficial wounds; however, if some rare and special poison powder is smeared into the wounds, the scars would turn ugly and gruesome. It will be a lot harder to treat it. Oh right, your Yi family''s patriarch is formidable. If he were to pay the price, he will likely be able to treat you but do you think the patriarch will spend the effort to save a junior like you?"


    As she said that, Princess Martial Maple lowered the knife that was dripping with blood. She instructed, "Send her to my room. I will not only slash her face, I want her entire body to be ugly. Then, I''ll smear some poison powder¡­ Let''s see if the young men courting you would continue their endeavors? You should taste the feeling of abandonment!"


    "Quick, send her into my room! I want to rip off her clothes and pepper her body with wounds." Princess Martial Maple''s eyes were maniacal. "I''m very benevolent. I''m not getting the men to rip your clothes. Your chastity will not be sullied. Look at how good I am to you."


    Immediately, a cultivator came forward with a sneer. He grabbed Yi Xiao and was about to escort her into a room.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "No good!" The expressions of the five Connate False Core realm cultivators that were presiding over the array formation changed.


    "Boom!!!"


    A terrifying force descended!


    The array formation flared with layers of barriers but under the terrifying force, it was completely torn apart easily. A horrifying flying sword had forcefully torn through everything as Qin Yun swooped down from a high altitude. At the moment, the array formation was cracked apart, allowing him to perceive everything inside the manor. He saw Yi Xiao''s injured face that was covered in blood.


    "Yi Xiao!" Qin Yun''s eyes turned red immediately.


    Boom!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword revealed its unfathomable might the moment it reached ground level. Boom! The cultivator that was escorting Yi Xiao instantly blasted to smithereens.


    "No good! Retreat!" The white-haired elder grabbed Princess Martial Maple as a shield made up of layers of fish scales appeared in front of him. However, he was still sent retreating dozens of feet because of the wanton and terrifying might of the flying sword.


    Phew.


    Qin Yun swooped down and instantly hugged Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun, you are here." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "Yi Xiao, I''m here." Qin Yun could not even hold back his tears as his eyes turned red.

 116 Pangs of Fury

    Chapter 116: Pangs of Fury


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun felt reverberations through his heart. He blamed himself for being too late. He hugged Yi Xiao as he cast a Drought Rainfall Spell on her. Quintessential Essence began to enter Yi Xiao''s body, shredding through the seals within her body.


    Hua!


    The Drought Rainfall Spell gathered vital powers and tore into Yi Xiao''s face, fusing into her skin. It slowly caused the bloody wounds on her face to heal and shrink. The blood stains were cleaned up by Qin Yun but the wounds remained very hideous. Princess Martial Maple had been cruel with her knife! Yi Xiao watched Qin Yun do everything silently. Seeing the anxiety and pain in his eyes, Yi Xiao felt her heart grow warm.


    "Am I very ugly?" Yi Xiao asked Qin Yun as she looked at him.


    "Not at all. I''ll cast the Drought Rainfall Spell every day. You''ll be fine in a few days." Qin Yun said softly. "Yi Xiao, wait here for a moment. I''ll avenge you right now!"


    On the other side.


    The white-haired elder had grabbed Princess Martial Maple and retreated a great distance away. The golden rope had also thrown Yi Caishi to Princess Martial Maple''s side.


    "Junior Sister Martial Maple, he is the best cultivator in Grand Dominance County, the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, Qin Yun!" The white-haired elder''s expression was especially solemn.


    "I know him. A genius itinerant sword immortal?" Princess Martial Maple watched Qin Yun cast Drought Rainfall Spell from afar. She shot a glance at Yi Caishi in a disdainful manner, "She lives up to being that slut''s daughter. She''s really great at seducing men. But she truly lacks taste. I always believed that she would seduce the eldest disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter, the future sect master of the Divine Firmament Chapter. Who knew that she would seduce an itinerant cultivator without any backing."


    "Third Madam, Xiao''er is innocent. Why don''t you forget it?" Yi Caishi said immediately.


    "Forget it?" Princess Martial Maple scoffed.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun whispered to Yi Xiao, "Yi Xiao, wait here for a moment. I''ll avenge you right now!"


    "He''s going to take action."


    "Be careful!"


    The guards under Princess Martial Maple immediately turned tense.


    Qin Yun turned, sweeping his gaze at the group before landing his gaze on the purple-dressed woman standing behind the white-haired elder that was standing far away. She was still holding a knife that was dripping blood. The signs of blood on the knife infuriated Qin Yun even more. If he had been a little later, what would they do to Yi Xiao? It was a horrifying thought!


    "Qin Yun, that is the Zhongli family''s Princess Martial Maple. She is the daughter of the Zhongli patriarch." Yi Xiao said worriedly. "You have to be calm." She did not want Qin Yun to get into trouble because of her.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin!"


    The white-haired elder beamed and said immediately, "Shall we forget this matter? Miss Yi Xiao might have suffered some physical pain but she will recover very quickly. Besides, this is a matter between the Yi family and the Zhongli family. Fellow Daoist Qin, there is no need for you to get involved in this matter."


    "Where were you bringing Yi Xiao to? If I had not arrived, the atrocities she would face would probably be a lot worse than this," said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Can''t you stand down?" The white-haired elder knitted his brows. "Qin Yun, are you going to oppose the Zhongli family?"


    "Stand down? Hahaha¡­ You want to leave after doing such deeds? Dream on!" Qin Yun''s eyes flared with killing intent. "I don''t care about any Zhongli family. Today, none of you will leave!"


    "Boom!"


    The silver flying sword floating in front of him rumbled and instantly transformed into a dazzling beam and brought with it sonorous thunder as it shot forward for the kill.


    "Protect the princess!" The five Connate False Core realm guardians mustered the array formation as the golden ropes came flailing over. Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword completely ignored the golden ropes, allowing for them to reach in front of Qin Yun. Peng! Peng! Peng! A black flying sword immediately used Cyclic Sword Flash in front of Qin Yun, forming a curtain of light that blocked everything.


    As for the Intrinsic Flying Sword, it bolted ahead with ease. It repelled the golden ropes that attempted to obstruct it as the array formation was ripped through directly.


    "Five Revolutions Seal, ensnare him!"


    The five guardians anxiously changed their array formation. The temporary manor that Princess Martial Maple lived in had many array formations. There was a variety of offensive, defensive, concealment, and other arrays.


    Instantly, five light streams of different colors swirled around the white-haired elder, Princess Martial Maple, Yi Caishi and the five formation casters.


    "This Five Revolutions Seal''s defensive strength is extremely powerful. It''s absolutely capable of protecting us¡­" Just as the white-haired elder spoke¡­


    "Boom!!!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword struck the array as the five-colored streams produced crunching sounds with cracks appearing.


    "Princess, the enemy is too strong! We can''t last much longer!" The five guardians were panicking in horror.


    "What? This is an array formation given to me by Father." Princess Martial Maple said immediately.


    "Boom!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword brought with it formidable might as it struck the five-colored streams once again, causing them to produce another round of crunching sounds. The number of cracks increased several times as the array formation that had long been set up in the manor began to tremble.


    "Qin Yun." When Yi Xiao saw this, she was worried that Qin Yun would make a hotheaded act. She said immediately, "She''s Princess Martial Maple, after all, the daughter of the Zhongli family''s patriarch."


    "Did she show you any mercy?" Qin Yun''s voice continued reverberating.


    Boom!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword pummeled the five-colored streams a third time and finally, they collapsed under the relentless assault. The array artifacts within the manor began to tremble and some were even flung to the side. The array cracked as the golden ropes were immediately retracted one after another. The Connate False Core realm guardians turned pale as they began to feel horrific unease.


    They were utterly crushed with the aid of the array formation. Without it? They were only waiting to be slaughtered!


    The difference was too great!


    "Qin Yun, you are going too far!" The white-haired elder bellowed as he waved his hand. A golden hoop flew out, forming circular binding ripples that wrapped around Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    With another wave of his hand, shields made up of fish scales flew out.


    The white-haired elder held a Dao talisman in hand and instantly it burned by itself.


    "Lightning Fire Descent!" As the saying goes, it never rains but it pours. It perfectly described the white-haired elder''s actions for he naturally used all his strength. Against an Azure-token Inspect Heavenly Token, how could he dare hold back? After all, he might be at the Connate True Core realm but he had never been invited by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to be an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. As for Qin Yun, he was already one.


    Boom!


    The lightning flames descended from the sky as the Cyclic Sword Flash beneath expanded in size. It warded off the lightning flames and not a single tongue managed to penetrate the Cyclic Sword Flash''s interior.


    "Just this?" Qin Yun''s voice was still resounding.


    Boom!


    The golden hoop was sent flying!


    Layers of fish-scaled shields began peeling off as it was struck by the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Quickly leave. Once you are in County Governor Manor, you will be safe. He would not dare to attack County Governor Manor. I''ll hold him back for a while." The white-haired elder''s expression changed as he urged.


    Princess Martial Maple could tell that her senior brother was not Qin Yun''s match. She began to panic as she grabbed Yi Caishi''s wrist and was about to escape. The five Connate False Core realm guardians also planned on leaving while protecting her.


    "Swoosh."


    Upon seeing this, Qin Yun waved his hand as the purple flying sword rushed instantly into the sky and hovered above the manor.


    "Since I''m not letting any of you leave, none of you will escape!" said Qin Yun.


    Princess Martial Maple and the five guardians watched the purple flying sword in midair and did not dare proceed.


    "Senior Brother, can''t you hold him off? You, you have already entered the Connate True Core realm for decades." Princess Martial Maple whispered.


    "Cultivation is not about age. He is an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador while I''m not," replied the elder immediately. If he were an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, how could he have been a mere guardian of a princess all this while?


    "I''m not asking you to defeat him. Can''t you protect us while we escape?" Princess Martial Maple turned flustered.


    "Boom!"


    The shield was finally sent flying after failing to withstand the attacks. With a whisk in hand, the white-haired elder brandished it as large amounts of threads expanded to protect the surroundings. He shouted immediately, "Junior Sister Martial Maple, quickly seek Reverend Immense Sea''s help! Of the people in a few hundred miles, only he can hold Qin Yun back."


    "Alright!" Princess Martial Maple sought Reverend Immense Sea''s help through her communication treasure as she yelled loudly, "Qin Yun, are you really going to make my Zhongli family an enemy?"


    "Have you thought of the repercussions of being the Zhongli family''s enemy? By involving yourself in this, even your family would be implicated." Princess Martial Maple had no other choice. As she requested for help, she began to make threats.


    A fierce glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword struck the whisk''s threads thrice in a short amount of time, and the third time was when the threads were completely ripped apart!


    "I can''t hold him back any longer!" The elder shouted as his expression changed drastically. The threads broke one after another, stressing the remainder threads in his bid to withstand the flying sword, but all he could do was last a little longer.


    "You can''t touch the princess! You can''t touch the princess!" Elder Sun, the hunchbacked elder roared by the side where the five guardians were.


    "Who is to save me? Who is to save me?" Princess Martial Maple truly panicked. She thought that her senior brother and guardians would have no problems facilitating an escape against a mere Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. However, Qin Yun was too powerful! Her senior brother was unable to withstand him for long and could not even escape.


    "He doesn''t dare to touch me! He wouldn''t dare!" Princess Martial Maple silently consoled herself.


    However, when she saw the coldness in the eyes of the youth standing in front of Yi Xiao a distance away, she could not help but lose her confidence.

 117 Differences between Mortals and Immortals

    Chapter 117: Differences between Mortals and Immortals


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In County Governor Manor.


    Reverend Immense Sea was chatting with County Governor Song in front of a piece of calligraphy.


    "Reverend, the flavor in your calligraphy has improved. It''s as though mighty waves are striking the shore. Jagged rocks of grotesque shapes." County Governor Song shook his head as he could not help but heap on praises. "It''s really good. However, the words ''jagged rocks'' by themselves look great with the edges of the strokes exuding the feeling of tumultuous waves. But as a whole¡­ it seems to lack that unbridled freedom."


    "Yes, definitely." Immense Sea nodded. "I also think that something is lacking. I have written the words ''jagged rocks'' for many years and always feel that I''ve yet to attain mastery. It seems a little trite and doesn''t lack that natural mastery! But I find the word itself perfect. It simply lacks that feeling when placed together with other words. I know my shortcomings but as for how I should improve, Brother Song, do you have any advice as a great calligrapher?"


    "Haha, Reverend, your calligraphy skills are not inferior to mine." County Governor Song laughed as he stroked his beard. "As for advice, you have consulted me several times and I have given you some."


    "But it wasn''t effective," Immense Sea said immediately. "I had even stayed by the seashore and watched the waves strike the jagged rocks for three years. It was useless!"


    County Governor Song nodded slightly. "Perhaps, there is a need for some epiphany."


    "Epiphany. When would I have one?" Immense Sea sighed helplessly.


    "Boom!"


    A distance away, Qin Yun unleashed his flying sword at the manor''s array formation. Although he was far from County Governor Manor, the terrifying shockwaves reached it. Mortals might not sense it but Immense Sea immediately noticed it.


    "Oh?" Immense Sea''s white brows pricked up as he turned to look outside.


    "Lord County Governor!" A middle-aged man rushed inside and said frantically, "There are powerful experts fighting in the city."


    "Why are you panicking. There''s Reverend here, and so is Young Master Qin. Grand Dominance City will be fine." County Governor Song said indifferently.


    When the middle-aged man heard that, he nodded immediately. He was the current commander of the personal guards for County Governor Song.


    Immense Sea frowned and said, "The battle is about four kilometers from here. There is an immense amount of power. In order to prevent innocents from being harmed, I''ll go take a look."


    "Reverend, let me accompany you. I''m the top official of this land after all." County Governor Song said immediately. The middle-aged man said by the side, "I''ll protect you, County Governor." Although the middle-aged man was at the Connate False Core realm, the cultivation manuals he used were of inferior quality. He could not even fly!


    "Alright."


    Immense Sea nodded.


    Phew.


    A cloud gathered immediately and lifted Immense Sea, County Governor Song, and the personal guard commander. They flew out of County Governor Manor and headed quickly for the battleground.


    They flew at an extremely fast speed.


    "A request for help?" Immense Sea also received Princess Martial Maple''s call for help. Previously, Princess Martial Maple had visited County Governor Manor and met Silver Peak Monastery''s Reverend Immense Sea. She had been rather respectful back then.


    Under normal circumstances, Princess Martial Maple would not make an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador her enemy.


    Reverend Immense Sea was an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador!


    "This is Princess Martial Maple''s residence. The princess is in danger." County Governor Song overlooked the manor below and could not help but panic. The cloud they were on was about eight hundred feet above the manor and they could see what was happening within. The manor was now in ruins as a purple flying sword floated in midair. Another flying sword was attacking Princess Martial Maple that she needed to call for help.


    "Young Master Qin?" County Governor Song was alarmed. "Why is he fighting Princess Martial Maple?"


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, please hold back!" Immense Sea said immediately as his voice reached the manor.


    ¡­


    Inside the manor.


    Just as Princess Martial Maple and company were in a horrified panic, a voice was heard from above. "Fellow Daoist Qin, please hold back."


    Qin Yun stopped. He looked up and saw Immense Sea and company flying down. County Governor Song even said, "Young Master Qin, is there some misunderstanding¡­" At that moment, County Governor Song also saw Yi Xiao behind Qin Yun. When he saw the gruesome wounds on her face, he immediately understood what had happened. "We can always calm down and discuss the matter."


    "Discussion is impossible." Qin Yun looked coldly at Reverend Immense Sea. "Reverend Immense Sea, are you stopping me?"


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, I should not interfere in your matters but this person is, after all, a princess. If there''s anything, we can all calm down and talk about it, alright?" proposed Immense Sea.


    "Reverend, you and I are good friends but I cannot defer to you on today''s matter," said Qin Yun.


    The two were indeed good friends.


    Immense Sea was the abbot of Steadfast Mountain County''s Silver Peak Monastery. He too was an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador! And since Qin Yun was Grand Dominance''s Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, the two neighboring counties made Qin Yun''s ties with Immense Sea a lot closer than other Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. When dealing with fiendish demons or other problems, the nearest Inspector Heavenly Ambassador would naturally render assistance; therefore, they often helped each other.


    "Quick." The white-haired elder, Princess Martial Maple, and company surreptitiously rushed towards Immense Sea''s side.


    Shoo!


    The purple flying sword flashed and obstructed them.


    "It''s best you do not move." Qin Yun scanned his gaze at them coldly.


    Immense Sea looked at Yi Xiao. When he saw the gruesome wounds on Yi Xiao''s face, he said with a wry smile, "Fellow Daoist Qin, I know you are furious but I cannot agree with your actions. Why don''t we do this? I''ll attack you once and if you can parry it, I''ll not interfere in this matter."


    "Alright, I have always wanted to fight you but, you were always unwilling," said Qin Yun.


    "What''s the point of all this wanton destruction? Fellow Daoist Qin, be careful." Immense Sea said as he waved his right palm.


    Buzz.


    A golden light suffused his palm as he struck out. A massive translucent golden palm flew out as the surrounding area echoed with Buddhist chants.


    "Shatter." Qin Yun waved his hand as the Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out. It manifested sword shadows formed from a large number of raindrops. It looked ordinary in might but when it clashed with the gigantic golden palm, a large number of cracks appeared on the golden palm. Following that, it shattered while the silver flying sword appeared in its true form in midair.


    "What? He''s so much stronger than back when he fought Black Demon King?" Immense Sea was alarmed. Although it wasn''t considered an all-out desperate attack, he had used seventy percent of his strength. He never expected it to be overwhelmed in such a direct manner.


    Immense Sea held his palms together. "I''m indeed no match against fellow Daoist Qin''s flying sword arts. I shall not intervene in this matter."


    "Reverend, how can you not intervene?" Princess Martial Maple said in a panic. "Are you going to watch him commit atrocious acts without doing a thing?"


    "I''m helpless." Immense Sea landed in a corner. County Governor Song was about to say something but he did not say a word. He had also seen how Immense Sea had failed to hold back Qin Yun.


    "Reverend, your Fiend Subduing Staff Arts are famous. You also have the Buddhist divine power of ''Divine Leg Power''. It will be easy for you to help us escape," said Princess Martial Maple immediately.


    Immense Sea gave a faint smile but did not say a word.


    "Junior Sister Martial Maple," whispered the white-haired elder. "Can''t you tell? Reverend Immense Sea is standing on Qin Yun''s side. They are all Jiang Prefecture cultivators and they are good friends!"


    "Boom!!!"


    Qin Yun remained coldly indifferent as he sent his sword on another assault.


    The elder brandished his whisk in a desperate attempt to last a little longer.


    "All¡­ all of you are in this together. Whatever happens today will be made known to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance! My father will be informed as well!" Princess Martial Maple''s eyes were filled with maniacal rage. "Qin Yun, if you dare touch me, aren''t you afraid of infuriating my father?"


    Beside them, Reverend Immense Sea shook his head gently. "Foolish."


    "Infuriating?"


    Qin Yun scoffed and said, "Princess Martial Maple, I know. Your Zhongli family is a thousand-year-old family. Its patriarch is an immortal that has cultivated to the Essence Soul realm! But so what if he is immortal? Don''t you know that¡­ the heavens have heavenly laws! Immortals have to face tribulations as well!"


    Princess Martial Maple''s expression stiffened.


    "Why, do you think I do not know anything?" Qin Yun sneered. "I''m an itinerant cultivator. I might have just become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, but I still know the rules."


    "In this world, there are so many great demons at the Connate Golden Core realm. They wreak havoc everywhere. Yet, Essence Soul immortals do not dare interfere. Why is that so?" Qin Yun sneered. "It''s because there are differences between mortals and immortals! Immortals¡­ would not interfere in mortal matters! The more they interfere, the greater the karma, causing even more negative karma. Essence Soul immortals may have an everlasting life but they also have to face tribulations. If they are unable to withstand them, they would also die."


    "The mortal world is toxic! The heavenly laws are heartless. Even if thousands of mortals will die, immortals will not intervene! Even if Connate Golden Core realm experts die, Essence Soul immortals would not easily take action. What''s more when they are such trivialities?"


    There were three major cultivation realms.


    Postnatal, Connate, Essence Soul!


    Essence Soul immortals were already legends of old. Qin Yun believed in the past that there were no immortals in the world but after becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, he learned of the true nature of the world! He understood that the thousand-year-old families, imperial government, Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, Heavenly Demon Palace, and the many factions in the fiendish demon world had human immortals or Fiendcelestials at the Essence Soul realm presiding over them.


    It was nothing to speak of when immortals fought Fiendcelestials.


    However, they would not easily attack mortals. The greater the karma the mortal had, the less likely they would take any action. For example, Qin Yun had killed the water ape, gaining the gratefulness of millions of commoners in Grand Dominance County. Many of them had even set up plaques in their families to wish good will on Qin Yun, so the amount of karma he had was extraordinary! If immortals dared to take action¡­ the tribulations they feared the most would immediately happen. Furthermore, it would be even more terrifying. It was even possible that they might perish.


    Under the maneuvering of the Heavenly Dao, Qin Yun and other cultivators were only considered as mortals. Only those that attained Essence Soul, allowing them perpetual youth would they be immortals, fiends, or gods!


    The Postnatal and Connate realm meant that they were still mortals!


    "My, my father has numerous disciples¡­" Princess Martial Maple insisted on carrying on.


    "Cut the nonsense. Use whatever moves you have." Qin Yun sneered. Before he attained the second level of sword intent he might have been fearful of Connate Golden Core cultivators but having gained a higher level in the Heavenly Dao, Qin Yun even wanted to attempt fighting someone at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "Boom!"


    The countless threads of the whisk exploded and finally failed to put up any further resistance.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    The flying sword swooped down as the white-haired elder and company fell to the ground while spitting out blood. Qin Yun''s figure flashed and appeared in front of Princess Martial Maple. Stretching out his hand, he grabbed her neck and lifted her up. He stared into Princess Martial Maple''s eyes. "It''s your turn!"

 118 20% Strength

    Chapter 118: 20% Strength


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Princess Martial Maple began feeling fear creep into her heart. She wanted to speak but the grip around her neck prevented her from doing so. She instinctively wanted to struggle but Qin Yun injected a wisp of Quintessential Essence into her body, sealing her of her Dharmic powers.


    "Stop!"


    "Qin Yun, put down the princess."


    "Everything can be discussed." The white-haired elder and the guardians stood up one after another as they shouted anxiously.


    "Young Master Qin, please let Princess Martial Maple off." Yi Caishi panicked as well. Noticing how Qin Yun did not react, he said immediately, "I''m Yi Xiao''s father."


    Qin Yun took a glance at him before turning to look back at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao only stared at Yi Caishi without saying a word.


    "You are Yi Xiao''s father?" Qin Yun continued grabbing Princess Martial Maple''s neck as he looked at Yi Caishi.


    Yi Caishi looked rather handsome and had a scholarly bearing. He immediately said, "Young Master Qin, let Third Madam off. She wouldn''t dare take action again."


    "Were you watching your daughter being sliced in the face without doing a thing?" Qin Yun''s voice was filled with anger.


    "I spoke out. I pleaded with her," said Yi Caishi instantly.


    "You said a few words in passing?" Qin Yun lost his temper.


    "I can''t stop her. She doesn''t listen to me," Yi Caishi said in a panic.


    "And now, you can''t stop me." Qin Yun coldly looked into Yi Caishi''s eyes.


    "Young Master Qin, please show mercy. Please." Yi Caishi said anxiously, "I owed her in the past. I owe Xiao''er too. It''s all my fault."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    What a loser.


    "You are wrong. What does this have to do with me? She injured Yi Xiao so you have no right to plead on her behalf." Qin Yun sneered as he looked at Princess Martial Maple. Her face was flushed red from the right grip around her neck. Without being able to say a word, her eyes were filled with plea.


    "You now know fear? Won''t you very ruthless while dealing with Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun threw her to the side.


    Bam!


    Princess Martial Maple flew out and fell in front of Yi Xiao. The fall left her head bloody as she looked up at Yi Xiao.


    "Yi Xiao, requite like for like," said Qin Yun.


    "Miss Yi Xiao," shouted the white-haired elder and the other five.


    "Xiao''er, it''s my fault," Yi Caishi said immediately.


    Princess Martial Maple crawled up but her eyes were still staring at Yi Xiao with resentment.


    Yi Xiao suddenly struck out.


    "Pa!" Princess Martial Maple was slapped in the face as she flew backward. Yi Xiao released her Quintessential Essence and grabbed her back in front of her.


    "Pa! Pa! Pa!"


    Yi Xiao''s Quintessential Essence held Princess Martial Maple as she slapped her in the face with her right hand. Instantly, Yi Xiao''s palms manifested themselves as shadows as the successive slaps struck Princess Martial Maple. It left her face covered in blood.


    "You had slashed at my face twelve times and I returned you with twelve slaps," said Yi Xiao.


    "You slapped me thirty times," said Princess Martial Maple in a hoarse voice as she struggled to speak.


    "The remaining eighteen slaps were for my mother. You kept using the word slut! You have no right to say that of my mother." Yi Xiao withdrew her Quintessential Essence and said coldly, "Leave and don''t you appear in front of me ever again. I will still beat you if you appear."


    Princess Martial Maple clenched her teeth.


    Being slapped thirty times by the slut''s daughter was a huge ridicule.


    "You wait and see. Wait and see." Princess Martial Maple thought to herself as she turned to leave.


    The white-haired elder, guardians, and Yi Caishi heaved a sigh of relief. The outcome was better than they expected.


    "Hold it."


    Qin Yun commanded coldly from the side.


    Princess Martial Maple, who had walked a few steps, came to a quivering halt. She looked at Qin Yun and said, "She¡­ she has let me go."


    However, Qin Yun queried with a voice transmission. "Yi Xiao, she had slashed your face with a knife. If I had not come in time, her next acts would be even more ruthless. Are you just giving a few slaps? Letting her off just like that?"


    "Forget it, Qin Yun. She is a princess after all. Let''s put this matter to rest."


    "It has already come this far. She will definitely bear a grudge," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "I can''t implicate you." Yi Xiao said with a voice transmission as she looked at him.


    Qin Yun''s heart warmed as he smiled.


    He understood Yi Xiao''s considerations.


    "How silly. Alright, leave it to me." Qin Yun beckoned with his hand as the knife that Princess Martial Maple had been thrown on the ground flew into his hand.


    "Qin Yun, don''t you be foolish. She didn''t have any intent to kill. Punishing her would do." Yi Xiao said hurriedly with a voice transmission.


    "Qin Yun!"


    "Stop!" exclaimed the white-haired elder, Yi Caishi and the rest.


    As for Reverend Immense Sea, he frowned slightly when he saw the situation play out. He said with a voice transmission, "Fellow Daoist Qin, the Zhongli''s family patriarch is a human immortal, one of the supporting pillars of humanity. You should show some mercy."


    "I respect Zhongli''s family patriarch as well." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "Him having merit doesn''t mean his daughter can do anything as she pleases. Don''t worry. I won''t kill her."


    Immense Sea heaved a sigh of relief.


    Qin Yun walked over with the bloodstained knife in hand. Princess Martial Maple''s face turned pale. "What are you doing? I¡­ I only slashed with the knife. I didn''t pour any poison powder. The wounds would recover very quickly. That Yi Xiao has hit me too. Why are you still¡­"


    "Poison powder?" Qin Yun''s expression changed. "You were even planning to use poison powder?"


    Princess Martial Maple became even more panic-stricken.


    The white-haired elder and company beside were seized with anxiety. Princess, why did you mention the poison powder?


    "Where''s the poison powder?" Qin Yun bellowed coldly.


    "No, I don''t have it." Princess Martial Maple said immediately.


    "By pouring poison powder on the wounds, even cultivators will not be able to rid it once the toxins permeate the wounds. They will be scarred for life." Qin Yun was very aware of the tactics that were employed by scoundrels. He turned and swept his glance across the white-haired elders and the others. "Speak, where''s the poison powder."


    The six shook their heads.


    "Are you trying to deceive me?" Qin Yun said curtly. "The six of you are accomplices regarding this matter. I''m only taking action against Princess Martial Maple now and haven''t gotten to the six of you."


    "Deal with us?"


    "We were only obeying orders."


    "We¡­" The six panicked.


    Qin Yun swept the six with a glance. "How I deal with you will depend on your honesty. Hand over the poison powder obediently and I will be lenient. If not, I will not kill you, but cripple the dantians of you six. What do you think of that?"


    The six were horrified.


    Crippling their dantians?


    Ending of their cultivation path? It was worse than death.


    "Where''s the poison powder? Hand it over. If you don''t, there will not be any chances. This is my last warning." Qin Yun said indifferently.


    "It''s with me." The white-haired elder took out a red bottle from the Cosmic Bag by his waist. He looked at Princess Martial Maple apologetically. "Junior Sister Martial Maple, we have no other choice either."


    Qin Yun took the red bottle and turned to walk towards Princess Martial Maple.


    "There''s no way you would¡­" Princess Martial Maple was about to retreat when formless Heaven and Earth powers left her immobile.


    "Paying one back in her own coin!" Qin Yun said, "When you do what you do unto others, why didn''t you think of the suffering they have to endure? Have a taste of that suffering."


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The knife slashed over. Yi Caishi was panicking by the side but it was useless. Qin Yun ignored him completely.


    "Twelve slashes." Qin Yun stopped and pulled the red bottle''s stopper and scattered it suddenly.


    Phew.


    The poison powder hit Princess Martial Maple''s face as she immediately held her face in pain.


    "Can I leave now?" Although Princess Martial Maple was in pain, she continued clenching her teeth and speaking hoarsely.


    "No rush." Qin Yun looked at the six and said, "Since you have handed over the poison powder, I''ll not cripple you of your dantians. Hand over all your Dharma treasures and other valuable items. Consider it as a tiny punishment."


    "All valuable items?"


    "The Dharma treasures we obtained from decades of cultivation¡­" The white-haired elder and company panicked.


    The purple flying sword hovering in midair approached them.


    "We''ll do it! We''ll hand them over." The six immediately responded.


    "And you." Qin Yun pointed at Princess Martial Maple. "Hand over all your Dharma treasures and valuable items."


    ¡­


    Soon.


    A huge number of treasures piled in front of Qin Yun as they emanated waves.


    Qin Yun looked at the seven. At that moment, Princess Martial Maple covered her face with a veil. She looked at Qin Yun with a cold glare. "Can we leave now?"


    "The clothes on you is also a Dharma treasure. Hand it over." Qin Yun said indifferently.


    "You¡ª" Princess Martial Maple''s eyes were filled with harshness. But against Qin Yun, who was looking at her calmly, her Dharma treasure robe flew out and landed on the pile of Dharma treasures in front of Qin Yun. At that moment, all Princess Martial Maple was left with were white body-hugging clothes.


    "You can leave." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    "Let''s go." The white-haired elder immediately cast his flying art and brought everyone, including Yi Caishi away. Yi Caishi gave Yi Xiao a conflicted look. He then came close to Princess Martial Maple and looked at her with a pained heart.


    Phew.


    Princess Martial Maple and company left quickly on a cloud.


    After flying out of Grand Dominance City, the silent Princess Martial Maple turned and looked down at the blurring city. She said hoarsely, "I''ll definitely have my revenge."


    "Third Madam." Yi Caishi looked at Princess Martial Maple with a pained heart.


    "That daughter of yours has only seduced an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. If he were a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, I would not be able to do a thing. But an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?" Princess Martial Maple sneered. "She and that Qin Yun will not remain complacent for long."


    Then, Princess Martial Maple looked meekly at Yi Caishi. "Caishi, don''t worry. She''s your daughter after all. I won''t kill her."


    ******


    Qin Yun kept the treasures.


    "Young Master Qin, you have truly offended that princess." County Governor Song could not help but comment.


    "You even took all their Dharma treasures." Immense Sea said with a smile as well.


    "Since I''m offending her, I might as well offend her fully." Qin Yun said with a smile. "Besides, Reverend Immense Sea, you know that I haven''t cultivated for long either. I''m very poor. Alright, I won''t be entertaining the both of you. We''ll be leaving first."


    Qin Yun held Yi Xiao''s hand. Yi Xiao allowed him to hold it as they left on a cloud.


    While flying in midair, Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun who was holding her hand. She felt her heart warm but she was worried as well. She felt remorse. "Qin Yun, you have truly offended Princess Martial Maple. She will definitely think of a way to seek revenge."


    "Don''t worry. It will be fine." Qin Yun said with a smile. "Let me tell you a secret."


    Yi Xiao was taken aback.


    "In the battle just now, everything was within my grasps. Besides, I only used twenty percent of my strength," said Qin Yun.


    "Twenty percent?" Yi Xiao was astounded. "You defeated the group of guardians and repressed Reverend Immense Sea¡­"


    Qin Yun smiled. "Since I know Princess Martial Maple will seek revenge, how can I display all my strength?"


    Yi Xiao was surprised and delighted, as well as astounded.


    The strength that he demonstrated was a little stronger than when he defeated Black Demon King. Yet, it was only twenty percent of Qin Yun''s strength?


    Could he already match someone at the Connate Golden Core realm already?


    "I''m only telling this to you. No one else knows." Qin Yun chuckled in a hushed tone. "Remember, keep it a secret."


    Yi Xiao nodded and immediately felt relieved.

 119 The Flaw of the Sword Immortal Lineage

    Chapter 119: The Flaw of the Sword Immortal Lineage


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Lady Chen Shuang lived in a particular wing of Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    Ever since she became Courtesan Belle a year ago, her popularity skyrocketed. The number of scions that courted her increased greatly. In addition, Chen Shuang''s charm and allure also amplified. She had also dominated both Lady Scented Dress and Lady Clear Autumn! The courtesan, Lady Chen Shuang, was also very famous in the other counties of Jiang Prefecture. There were frequently other distinguished guests that came to Grand Dominance to meet her.


    In terms of fame, Chen Shuang was likely ranked fifth among all the renowned courtesans. After all, one had to know that East Sea County, Golden Qin County, and Wusu County were more prosperous than Grand Dominance County. There were even more renowned courtesans in their brothels.


    "This brother of yours has truly extraordinary strength. At a young age, he is able to suppress that old monk, Immense Sea. Although Immense Sea might have deliberately gone easy by using a portion of his strength, it''s likely that Qin Yun''s true strength isn''t inferior to Immense Sea." A seductive red-dressed woman smiled as she looked at a water mirror floating in front of her. The mirror revealed Qin Yun''s domination over the guardians, as well as the scene of him fighting with Reverend Immense Sea.


    "Brother Yun began truly practicing his swordsmanship at age eight. At the age of thirteen, he attained one with the sword." Chen Shuang looked in the mirror and her eyes suffused pride.


    "But it seems like he likes the lady behind him," said the red-dressed woman with a smile as she pointed at Yi Xiao through the mirror.


    Chen Shuang looked at it and fell silent.


    Following that, she smiled. "I''m also happy for Brother Yun to have someone he likes. Besides, I saw Brother Yun and that lady together a few days ago. They have been in Grand Dominance City for several months now."


    "Don''t try to lie to me. I can tell that you like this brother of yours," said the woman. "Besides, he can only be considered an adopted brother."


    Chen Shuang nodded in silence. "Yes, I like him but I do not deserve him."


    "There''s nothing about deserving when it comes to cultivators," said the woman with a smile. "I told you before. As a mortal that the Magus Matriarch Gu pursues, a trip into the Magus Matriarch Cave would ensure that your cultivation advances by leaps and bounds. There would not be any bottlenecks for you to step into the Connate realm. Furthermore, you gained a rudimentary understanding of the mystic arts I taught you in a day. Now, you are close to mastering it. Isn''t the number of people courting and liking you increasing? This is only an ordinary bewitching spell. Your talent in magus arts is extremely high, much higher than mine. It will be a waste if you do not cultivate in magus arts."


    "Besides, you are already twenty this year!"


    "The Daoist and Buddhist sects have a saying it would become impossible if one didn''t pass the gate of immortality before they turned twenty. Only our magus lineage allows even an old granny to have a chance." The red-dressed woman said with a smile. "Among all the sects in the world, other than the Daoist and Buddhist sacred land, there are nineteen other top sects that are scattered across the world. Our Magistress Mountain is the only top sect that remains of the magus lineage. The various magus arts we have are the most complete as well. Even the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands would not dare to touch our Magistress Mountain. If they offend us, they might die without even knowing why."


    Chen Shuang looked in the mirror and saw Qin Yun flying off together with Yi Xiao while holding her hand.


    "If you do not cultivate, in another decade or so, you will lose all your present luster. You will age and when you are wrinkled and aged, your Brother Yun will remain extremely young." The woman persuaded her. "And if you were to enter Magistress Mountain, you could replace that woman if your Brother Yun separates from her. You will only stand a chance as long as you live long enough and remain young and beautiful."


    "Tell me, do I have a fifty percent chance of walking out of Magistress Mountain''s Magus Matriarch Cave you mentioned alive?" asked Chen Shuang.


    "Yes," replied the red-dressed woman. "You made the Matriarch Gu adore you that much, so the chances of surviving are very high. Although the other Magus Maiden candidates will enter as well, it''s unlikely any one of them can survive. As for you, you have at least a fifty percent chance. Once you survive¡­ you will become the incumbent Magus Maiden. And once you attain the realm of Heaven Magus, you would immediately be known as Magus Matriarch!" persuaded the red-dressed woman.


    "Fifty percent chance. That''s probably just you sweet-talking me." Lady Chen Shuang whispered.


    The woman smiled and said immediately, "You have also seen how much the Magus Matriarch Gu likes you."


    "I only have one request," said Chen Shuang.


    "Feel free to tell me," replied the red-dressed woman immediately. She had found a most suitable Magus Maiden candidate while passing through Grand Dominance. Therefore, she was trying every means possible to persuade Chen Shuang. After all, entry into Magus Matriarch Cave needed to be voluntary.


    "Hundreds of people from my escort company and my brother, Xie Lei, died because of East Gong County''s Baili family! I want the masterminds that caused my brother''s death to all die! The Baili family''s patriarch has to die as well," said Chen Shuang. "Only with them dead will I be willing to go to your Magistress Mountain and enter Magus Matriarch Cave."


    The red-dressed woman smiled. "If it is something this trivial, rest assured! My Magistress Mountain now represents the magus lineage. In terms of strength, we are much stronger than top cultivation sects. A single Baili Qin can be easily killed."


    Chen Shuang nodded. Since she had decided on entering the cultivation world, she asked, "I want to know what the factions are in the cultivation world. Why aren''t fiendish demons eradicated yet?"


    "In terms of the strongest factions," said the red-dressed woman. "We humans naturally have the imperial government, the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, as well as the top cultivation sects. My magus lineage was in no way inferior to the Daoist and Buddhist sects in ancient times but now, it has waned. Many of the arts are lost and the cultivation arts of battle magi are gone. But even so, the remaining magus arts remain extremely powerful."


    "As for fiendish demons¡­"


    The woman frowned and said, "Speaking of which, other than the Four Seas Dragon Palace, the fiendish demons are mainly split among the Heavenly Demon Palace and the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. Heavenly Demon Palace and humans do good together and favor coexistence."


    "As for the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, their cultivation heritage stems from the Other Realm Fiendcelestials," explained the woman. "They are most vile! Be it humans, the Heavenly Demon Palace, or the Four Seas Dragon Palace, all of them deal with the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons."


    "Is the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons so powerful?" Chen Shuang was astounded.


    "Very." The red-dressed woman nodded.


    "What about my Brother Yun?" asked Chen Shuang.


    "He''s considered a sword immortal." The red-dressed woman shook her head. "It has to be said that sword immortals are very powerful. Among peers of the same level, their offensive means are the best! However, sword immortals also have an enormous flaw."


    "Flaw?" Chen Shuang was puzzled.


    "Yes." The red-dressed woman nodded. "The Connate Golden Core realm is the limit for the legacies of sword immortals! There are no methods to condense one''s Essence Soul. Since ancient times, no sword immortal at the Essence Soul realm have been produced. How powerful are sword immortals? Their prowess leave fiendish demons crying for their parents but it''s because there was no Essence Soul immortal holding down the fort which resulted in many sword immortal sects being destroyed by fiendish demons several times. Therefore, the sword immortal legacies have been lost. They have tried to renew themselves a few times and of course, the Daoist sacred land, Numinous Treasure Mountain, always has Sword Immortal Legacies stored with them. Whenever there''s an opportunity, they would release them, nurturing new sword immortal sects."


    The red-dressed woman smiled and said, "Of course, we are speaking about an entire sect. How many years does it take to produce immortals that can condense the Essence Soul? And how difficult is it? To attain the Connate Golden Core realm with sword immortal legacies makes one the cream of the crop. They are only slightly weaker than our magus lineage. Our Magistress Mountain still has a Magistress alive. It''s possible to cultivate to the realm of Magistress and that is equivalent to Daoist Essence Soul immortals."


    Chen Shuang nodded. "Brother Yun won''t be able to become immortal?"


    "What are you thinking about? With the strength of that brother of yours, he is extremely likely to attain the Connate Golden Core. It will be pretty impressive if you can chase up to him to become a Magus Matriarch," said the red-dressed woman.


    Chen Shuang nodded.


    "As for the Baili family, I''ll begin arrangements," said the red-dressed woman. "Just wait for the good news."


    With that said, she turned and left.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were together. Yi Xiao had a veil across her face as well.


    "I was too foolish when I was young." Yi Xiao said softly, "But after seeing my father this time, he has truly disappointed me. My father actually put up with her calling my mother slut again and again? Perhaps, compared to the feelings he had with my mother, his feelings for Princess Martial Maple is deeper."


    "Perhaps he has his own difficulties," Qin Yun consoled her.


    "Difficulties?" Yi Xiao fell silent before saying, "Regardless, there is no longer a need for me to go to Wusu County''s Windblast Pavilion to wait for him. It is, at least, clear to me now that compared to me, he is more willing to be with Princess Martial Maple! As for protecting me? That Princess Martial Maple will not be able to touch me be it in the Divine Firmament Chapter or in the Yi family''s ancestral ground. If my father was willing to bring me along back then, I would be willing to live in the Yi family''s grounds all my life."


    Qin Yun only provided her companionship.


    "Let''s not talk about me any further." Yi Xiao said immediately, "What''s most important is that Princess Martial Maple must be incensed. The Zhongli family will also feel disregarded."


    "Don''t worry. I took all their treasures at the end." Qin Yun picked up a Cosmic Bag and poured out the bag. Out came another Cosmic Bag that continued pouring down.


    All the spoils of war were revealed.


    "That Princess Martial Maple sure is deserving of being a princess. She has so many treasures. It''s enough to match seven or eight Gongye Bings." Qin Yun said with a laugh. "As for her guards, they add up to match two or three Gongye Bings."


    "Why do you keep mentioning Gongye Bing?" Yi Xiao felt helpless.


    "No choice. He''s the only Connate True Core fiendish demon I have ever killed." Qin Yun laughed as he looked at the treasures. "With these, my Intrinsic Flying Sword can be upgraded by two grades, reaching a fourth-grade flying sword. My Qin family''s array formation can also be upgraded a lot more."


    "You can have it upgraded by two grades?"Yi Xiao was astonished. "My estimates say that it''s not sufficient."


    "Didn''t I tell you that I had a breakthrough in strength? The amount of materials needed to cultivate my Intrinsic Flying Sword has been drastically reduced." Qin Yun smiled and said, "Let''s not delay it any further. I''ll be going to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to exchange for treasures in a while."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Princess Martial Maple and the Zhongli family will need at least a few days to divert manpower."

 120 Myriad Temple

    Chapter 120: Myriad Temple


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Unfortunately, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will take about half a year to reach the fourth-grade," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao immediately asked, "Qin Yun, are you sure you can control a fourth-grade flying sword at the Connate False Core realm?"


    In the Postnatal realm, one could at best control a seventh-grade Dharma treasure! A sixth-grade Dharma treasure could not be used even if it was placed in front of them.


    And in the Connate realm, under normal circumstances, the Connate False Core realm allowed one to control fifth and sixth-grade Dharma treasures. Connate True Core realm allowed one to control third and fourth-grade Dharma treasures. As for the Connate Golden Core realm, they could control first-grade Dharma treasures. Although that was the rule of thumb, Dharma treasures were just too expensive. Most Connate True Core realm cultivators would typically use fifth-grade or sixth-grade Dharma treasures.


    "My sword immortal lineage gives pure Quintessential Essence, and the Connate False Core I condensed is a lot better than sword immortals at the same level. I''ll be able to control a fifth-grade flying sword as well," said Qin Yun confidently. "With the fourth-grade flying sword being my Intrinsic Flying Sword, it can match the power of a second-grade Dharma treasure in my hands¡­ With the flying sword, my strength can increase by another fifty to sixty percent!"


    Qin Yun was just too powerful so the aid the Dharma treasures gave him wasn''t that exaggerated either.


    However, being able to have his strength increased by fifty to sixty percent alone was astonishing enough.


    "I just wonder what means the Zhongli family will employ." Yi Xiao was a little worried.


    "I will adopt the necessary measures depending on the situation. Besides, whoever dares to attack me has to be prepared to be killed by me." Qin Yun showed no fear. He naturally felt emboldened with his strength.


    ******


    The Kong Prefecture''s Zhongli family was a thousand-year-old family clan. A provincial city had been conferred to the Zhongli family and even if the dynasty changed, the provincial city continued to be helmed by the Zhongli family. This city was also called Li City.


    At night, in Kong Prefecture, in a grandiose manor in Li City, there were hordes of servants and the rules were strict.


    In a hall.


    "Mother, I ask for your justice." Princess Martial Maple knelt in front of a woman as she hugged her leg and sobbed.


    "All you know is cry."


    The woman waved her hand and two screens appeared in midair.


    One screen was of Yi Xiao slapping Princess Martial Maple thirty times. The other one was Qin Yun spraying poison powder on Princess Martial Maple''s face.


    "Stare at it and watch it carefully," said the woman coldly.


    Princess Martial Maple had no choice but to watch the two screens obediently. The scenes repeated again and again as the fury in Princess Martial Maple''s eyes grew.


    "Whenever you calm down is when you can speak to me." The woman got up and left.


    Princess Martial Maple obediently remained silent.


    Her mother was Zhongli Patriarch''s present wife, Matron Le. Zhongli Patriarch had several wives but as he everlasting youth, his wives died one after another. Matron Le was a female disciple that Zhongli Patriarch had taken in in the past. As they spent time frequently, she eventually became the present matron of the Zhongli family.


    Matron Le had already reached the Connate True Core realm and wasn''t even a hundred years old. She wielded a lot of power in the Zhongli family.


    At dawn of the second day,


    Matron Le returned to the hall. Princess Martial Maple was still obediently kneeling and watching the two screens floating in midair.


    "Have you calmed down?" asked Matron Le.


    "Yes, I have." Princess Martial Maple nodded obediently.


    "Do you know where your fault lies?" Matron Le asked again.


    Princess Martial Maple whispered under her breath, "I didn''t heed your words and attacked Yi Xiao without your permission. She is a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple after all and a child of the Yi family. By getting into trouble, I will displease Father."


    "Your father may have everlasting youth but he has to suffer tribulations too. If you can lessen the troubles he faces, do it." Matron Le said. "As for the matter in Grand Dominance, I''m very disappointed."


    "Firstly, you were not calm and did not listen to me and directly attacked Yi Xiao."


    "Secondly, after deciding to take action, you didn''t listen to my teachings of planning before taking action!" Matron Le looked at her daughter. "Did you wonder why she was in Grand Dominance? Could she have companions? Could she have seniors from her sect? Without even thinking, you took action immediately. Do you think you are really invincible? Look at the final outcome. You got smacked in the face and disfigured. You have sullied the reputation of the Zhongli family completely!"


    "Although there is one Connate Golden Core realm cultivator among your father''s disciples, even your father will find it difficult to order him to do something, much less the two of us," said Matron Le.


    At the Connate Golden Core realm, one also had their own family clan that had responsibilities weighing down on their shoulders.


    They would not easily engage in life-and-death acts of revenge. After all, Qin Yun had extraordinary potential. If the assassination of him failed, it would only result in endless problems.


    Princess Martial Maple obediently remained silent.


    "A few years ago, you did things well but in recent years, you have been touring the world and having fun with that Yi Caishi. I think you have turned dumb." Matron Le reprimanded, "Do you think just because we are the Zhongli family clan, it permits us to do anything we wish?"


    "It''s my fault." Princess Martial Maple said obediently. "Mother, I leave everything to you."


    "Since this matter has been done, there''s no need for regret."


    Matron Le said calmly, "That Qin Yun is only a mere itinerant cultivator but he doesn''t consider our Zhongli family at all. He was even so ruthless against you! Even the Inspector Heavenly Alliance knows about it, which means many factions in the world will learn of it. Now, the one being disgraced is not only you nor me, but the entire Zhongli family! Qin Yun has to be taught a lesson on this matter or it will only let others deride us. In the future, how would our family clan exercise our authority on the masses?"


    "How so?" Princess Martial Maple''s eyes lit up.


    "How else? It''s too troublesome causing a din. It''s better to just straight up kill him cleanly," said Matron Le.


    "How do we kill him?" Princess Martial Maple could not help but ask. "He''s rather powerful and I can''t think of any way that has absolute certainty."


    Matron Le shook her head slightly. "Naturally, we look for something with certainty."


    She waved her hand.


    Phew.


    A phantom image appeared in midair. In it was a coiled flood dragon that was covered with dark-red scales. The dragon''s head was staring at the screen as the surrounding water flowed.


    "Matron Le, what matter do you have to seek me?" said the blood-colored flood dragon in human speech.


    "I need the Myriad Temple to kill a person," said Matron Le.


    "Who?" asked the flood dragon.


    "In Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance, there is a sword immortal by the name of Qin Yun," Matron Le said. "I wish that you can rid of him as soon as possible."


    The flood dragon nodded slightly. "That is a recently promoted Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. He had defeated Black Demon King head on and his strength is not inferior to Silver Peak Monastery''s Reverend Immense Sea. Killing him requires three Immortal Crystals."


    "Three?" blurted Matron Le.


    "Yes." The flood dragon nodded.


    Matron Le hesitated for a moment before nodding. She said, "Then three Immortal Crystals it is. I wish that the Myriad Temple can kill him as soon as possible."


    "Rest assured with my Myriad Temple on the job. Please send the three Immortal Crystals as early as possible." The flood dragon nodded slightly and the transmission was cut.


    Princess Martial Maple watched all of this from the side without daring to make a sound.


    After the communication ended, Princess Martial Maple asked immediately, "This is the Myriad Temple? The omnipotent Myriad Temple that encompasses all myriad phenomena?"


    "Myriad Temple only cares for treasures. It does not care if they are human, fiendish demon or from the Water race." Matron Le said. "And indeed, they are infinitely resourceful."


    "Can I get a Myriad Temple transmission mark?" asked Princess Martial Maple immediately.


    Matron Le shook her head. "Myriad Temple only leaves a transmission mark with humans or demons that it acknowledges. The unacknowledged cannot contact them."


    Princess Martial Maple muttered softly, "They are deliberately putting on airs."


    "But the Myriad Temple has the strength," countered Matron Le. "Regardless, no one can prove that it was us who took action if it''s the Myriad Temple. No evidence will be left behind. Now, all you need is to wait for news of Qin Yun''s death."


    Matron Le truly did not think much of Qin Yun.


    So what if a junior that did not have any backer died? By being Zhongli Patriarch''s partner, she had previously seen truly terrifying existences in the world, such as immortals and Fiendcelestials. Even the mark used to contact the Myriad Temple was given to her by a ''Fiend Dragon'' from Myriad Temple that matched the level of a Fiendcelestial. Matron Le naturally thought highly of herself so she was indeed furious over Qin Yun''s ruthless acts against her daughter.


    As for her daughter acting against Yi Xiao? From her point of view, Yi Xiao was only a lowly child of the Yi family, while her daughter was a daughter of an immortal, so how could Yi Xiao compare with her?


    "Alright, I''ll wait for news of his death." Princess Martial Maple felt a sense of anticipation.


    "Are the scars on your face removable?" asked Matron Le.


    "No," Princess Martial Maple nodded. "It''s very troublesome but if Father were to help, it would be a lot easier."


    "No rush. Wait a little longer. Find your father when he is out of seclusion. Do not disturb his cultivation," said Matron Le.


    Princess Martial Maple could not help but ask, "How long do I have to wait?"


    "That I wouldn''t know. It could be as short as a day or two, and as long as a decade," answered Matron Le. "Don''t worry. I''ll bring you to meet him the moment he''s out."


    "Alright." Princess Martial Maple answered obediently.


    The Zhongli family''s patriarch was the supreme existence of the Zhongli family clan. Princess Martial Maple was only one of his many daughters in the patriarch''s long life after all.


    ¡­


    As for the Myriad Temple, it began preparing for the assassination.

 121 Entering a Sec

    Chapter 121: Entering a Sect


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Grand Dominance County, Qin Yun?" A man with handsome looks that bordered on seductiveness was looking at a mirror in front of him. It displayed a blood-colored flood dragon.


    "Multiform Poison Codger, are you willing to do it?" The blood-colored flood dragon asked. "If you kill Qin Yun, you can obtain one Immortal Crystal."


    The man chuckled softly and said, "I have assassinated people at the Connate True Core realm before but I have really never killed an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. Your Myriad Temple knows that I''m close to the end of my life and is in dire need for treasures to break through¡­ Alright, I''ll accept it. I''ll kill Qin Yun in a month."


    A wall of text appeared in the mirror.


    "This is the detailed information regarding Qin Yun." The dragon cut off the communication once it was done.


    "Hmph, only twenty-two years old." The man said in a deep voice. "I''m almost two hundred years old and I''m only at the Connate False Core realm."


    "However, with regards to killing people¡­ I have a variety of means." The man got up and left the house.


    There were female servants waiting on him outside the house.


    "Young Master," said a servant politely.


    However, he did not say a word. As he walked past the servant, her eyes widened as she collapsed to the ground, dead. She had black blood flowing out her nostrils.


    As he walked, wherever he passed, the servants and maidservants would die one after another.


    "Husband, why did you kill all of them." In a garden, a woman was alarmed when she saw the servants fall to the ground dead. "Didn''t you say that you wouldn''t kill people after I marry you?"


    The man smiled and said, "Back when I came to your Wang family, I killed three hundred guards as well as members of your Wang family. None of you dared to say a word and didn''t you end up marrying me still?"


    "But our Wang family has not slighted you in any way over the past year or so." The woman was seized by panic.


    "It''s true, but I''m leaving," said the man.


    "Leave?" The woman''s heart was filled with anticipation and fear.


    This terrifying fiend was finally leaving.


    "Before I leave, any woman that I encounter shall die," commented the man.


    "You want to kill me?" The woman trembled.


    "I have killed everyone along the way. Treat it as if they will be accompanying you in death." The man smiled and said, "Finally, I have one thing to tell you. I''m, in fact, already one hundred and ninety-two years old. Haha."


    The woman widened her eyes.


    The man waved his hand as the woman fell to the ground dead with blood flowing out her nose.


    Following that, the man''s appearance changed into a thin and tiny old man. His eyes flickered with a gold glimmer. "What a good risk. As long as I succeed in killing an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, I can obtain an Immortal Crystal! This is more than all the treasures I have obtained in the past. Perhaps, I might be able to use it to break through to the Connate True Core realm, extending my lifespan."


    "Qin Yun? A sword immortal? Sword immortals are proficient at their flying swords but their weaknesses are obvious as well." Multiform Poison Codger snickered and left with the wind.


    The compound he was in belonged to the Wang family.


    The Wang family had already discovered that a large number of servants had died; therefore, they hid far away. Even some of the guards fled and returned only at night.


    A probe was made.


    "He''s gone. That fiend is finally gone."


    The Wang family heaved a sigh of relief.


    "That cultivator didn''t focus on his cultivation and kill fiends but ended up harming us mortals." The Wang family''s patriarch looked at the corpses in front of him as his eyes filled with tears. Other than a daughter, there were other servants and members of the Wang family among the corpses. They had all been killed by Multiform Poison Codger in passing.


    The Wang family was quite a powerful faction, so they understood that Multiform Poison Codger was a terrifying cultivator. No one in their county was probably Multiform Poison Codger''s match; therefore, they could only tolerate and pander him.


    The Wang family did not even know Multiform Poison Codger''s true identity even to the very end.


    ******


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    The Qin Manor had been refurbished with array formations. Every night, Qin Yun would cultivate his Intrinsic Flying Sword, hoping to push it to the fifth-grade as soon as possible.


    "Yun''er. Yun''er." Qin Liehu came to Qin Yun''s cultivation yard.


    Before Qin Liehu could knock on the door, the door opened automatically.


    Qin Liehu instantly saw Qin Yun sitting cross-legged inside. With a whoosh, the flying sword flew back to Qin Yun and vanished.


    "Father, why are you here?" Qin Yun got up and smiled.


    "I have something I need to trouble you with." Qin Liehu stammered in hesitation.


    "Father, just speak your mind if there''s something for me to do," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Qin Liehu said, "You also know that I have a good friend, your Uncle Xu. Back when I was a constable, your Uncle Xu shared a great relationship with me. Although he has moved to Golden Qin County, he is recently back in Grand Dominance. He came to me¡­ hoping to get some help in sending his youngest son into the Scenic Mountain Sect for cultivation."


    "Scenic Mountain Sect?" Qin Yun frowned. That is the only top cultivation sect in our Jiang Prefecture. Such a large sect would not easily accept disciples.


    "His son is twelve years old and is at the seventh level of the Qi Refinement realm. He''s quite talented." Qin Liehu said, "If he lacks the talent, I wouldn''t dare to seek your help. You also know that I''ve rejected those that come to seek our help in order to not make things difficult for you. But for my relationship with your Uncle Xu¡­ it''s really¡­"


    Qin Yun asked, "Did he fail to enter the Scenic Mountain Sect''s normal recruitment?"


    "He failed to even become an in-name disciple," said Qin Liehu immediately.


    "Father," Qin Yun said. "Get Uncle Xu to bring his son to me. I''ll take a look myself! Although Scenic Mountain Sect was once a Daoist sacred land, it is still extraordinary at present. The requirements for it to take in a disciple is stringent. Although my relationship with the Scenic Mountain Sect is pretty good, I can''t send any person in."


    Even second or third-tier sects were very careful with taking in disciples, much less top cultivation sects!


    "By the way, Father, what is your relationship like with Uncle Xu?" asked Qin Yun. "If I made the request, it is definite that the Scenic Mountain Sect would accept him as an in-name disciple without elaboration. However, there is a limit to the goodwill between people. I can''t keep sending people in."


    "Help him! I have rejected everyone else but your Uncle Xu and his friendship with me was tested by life-and-death," replied Qin Liehu.


    "Alright, get his son over here first." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    Two hours later.


    A man as fat as a bear brought a plump youth to see Qin Yun. Qin Liehu accompanied them by the side.


    "Young Master Qin." The man spoke with restraint as he said immediately, "This is my kid. His name is Xu Lie. Lie''er, quickly greet Young Master Qin."


    The plump youth knelt down immediately with eyes that were filled with idolation. Without further ado, he said, "Greetings Young Master Qin, I am Xu Lie."


    "Dispense with the formalities," said Qin Yun instantly. Then, a formless Heaven and Earth powers lifted up the youth.


    When Xu Lie felt the formless energy, his reverence for Qin Yun grew.


    "Uncle Xu, back when I first met you, I think I was even younger than he was." Qin Yun smiled. "In a blink of an eye, it''s been twelve years."


    "That''s right. But Young Master Qin, your talent in sword arts is a lot better than my kid." The man rushed to flatter Qin Yun. Although he was also a silver-badge constable in Golden Qin County, there were golden-badge constables in such large counties. He had also seen experts in Golden Qin County so he was acutely aware of how much power an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador wielded. He naturally did not dare to act as an elder.


    After all, they had only met a few times before.


    "Here, come over to me." Qin Yun looked at Xu Lie.


    Xu Lie ran over immediately.


    Qin Yun extended his arm and grabbed Xu Lie''s wrist and immediately Xu Lie stiffened up.


    "Yea," Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Seventh level of the Qi Refinement realm and a good physical constitution! You are rather suitable for cultivating the Godfiend arts, or methods such as the Physical Establishing Sage."


    "Only the imperial government possesses the formulations of the Godfiend lineage and it''s very hard to reach a deep mastery." The man said immediately. "As for Physical Establishing Sage, it''s even harder."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Our Jiang Prefecture''s First Great Sect does have Physical Establishing Sage formulations but it''s overly ordinary. Reaching the Connate True Core realm is its limit."


    Out of the three Daoist sacred lands, the Primordial Chaos Sect was a sect with Physical Establishing Sage formulations!


    However, the Primordial Chaos Sect was extremely stringent in its recruitment conditions. It was the toughest out of the three sacred lands! Xu Lie''s talent was far inferior to the youths that came from top family clans that nurtured them with all sorts of herbal treasures. All of them had great physical constitutions.


    "What are you good at?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Pole arts." Xu Lie said immediately, "Also, I''m good at calligraphy."


    Soon.


    Xu Lie did his best to demonstrate his pole arts! By the side, Xu Dahan was feeling especially nervous.


    After a while, Xu Dahan placed a piece of calligraphy paper that had been prepared ahead of time on a stone table. Xu Lie began writing his calligraphy. Calligraphy was the basics of talisman arts.


    "That''s not bad." Qin Yun nodded.


    Xu Lie barely qualified to be an in-name disciple of Scenic Mountain Sect. However, Scenic Mountain Sect naturally chose the cream of the crop! In addition to personal ties and influence from one''s family clans, it was natural that Xu Lie, who lacked any background, wasn''t recruited.


    Xu Dahan looked nervously at Qin Yun as Xu Lie did not even dare to breathe.


    The moment that determined his fate came.


    "Uncle Xu," Qin Yun said with a nod. "Your child is still alright. However, after entering the Scenic Mountain Sect, Xu Lie, you will have to put in a lot of effort."


    Xu Lie immediately revealed a grateful look.


    By the side, Xu Dahan''s body trembled as he said immediately, "Lie''er will be able to enter the Scenic Mountain Sect?"


    "Bring him to the Scenic Mountain Sect. Remember, being an in-name disciple is just the beginning. To become an inner-sect disciple or inherited teachings disciple¡­ will depend on his diligence," said Qin Yun.


    "Sure. Sure." Xu Dahan nodded immediately but he could not help but ask, "Is there no need for a letter?"


    "There''s no need. You may leave," said Qin Yun.


    Xu Dahan nodded immediately.


    "Yun''er, I''ll walk your Uncle Xu out and stop disturbing you." Qin Liehu said with a smile. With that, he led the excited Xu Lie and his father out.


    Qin Yun watched as they left before flipping his hand to reveal the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Buzz.


    A phantom image appeared beside the Inspect Heavenly Token. It was none other than Daoist Yan.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, why are you suddenly looking for me?" Daoist Yan chuckled. "I heard that you taught that young princess of the Zhongli family a lesson."


    "It''s just a trivial problem," said Qin Yun. "Fellow Daoist Yan, I do have something to trouble you with."


    "What is it?" asked Daoist Yan.


    Qin Yun said, "There''s a young kid named Xu Lie. He''s twelve years old and at the seventh level of the Qi Refinement realm. His foundations aren''t bad. I''m wondering if you can admit him into the Scenic Mountain Sect as an in-name disciple?"


    "An in-name disciple?" Daoist Yan nodded. "That would be simple. It will be troublesome if it was an inner-sect disciple. If it''s just an in-name disciple, all I need to do is just pass the message. Oh, by the way, the child''s name is Xu Lie?"


    "Yes, Xu Lie from the Golden Qin County! His father is also a silver-badge constable and was once a constable in my Grand Dominance County," elaborated Qin Yun.


    "Looks like it''s a family friend." Daoist Yan nodded. "Alright, I''ll give the instructions immediately."


    "Thanks," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s nothing," said Daoist Yan forthrightly.

 122 Assassination on the Streets

    Chapter 122: Assassination on the Streets


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Liehu hosted his good friend, Xu Dahan and his son, with some hot tea and desserts.


    The maidservants served desserts that were meticulously prepared. Xu Lie chomped down on it.


    "Eat slowly." Xu Dahan could not help but glare at him.


    "Haha, eat more if you like it," Qin Liehu said with a laugh.


    Xu Lie nodded immediately.


    When Xu Dahan saw this, he could not help but shake his head and smile wistfully. "Liehu, back then, we were a bunch of old buddies but you are really impressive now. You even have cultivators guarding your home. High officials like the county governor also come to your family as a guest."


    "How could it be because of me? It''s all because of Yun''er," said Qin Liehu.


    "Young Master Qin is kindhearted to help this child of mine," Xu Dahan said. "I know that it was because of you. I''ll remember this for sure. The gifts I give will probably be nothing to your Qin family."


    "Why are you talking about this?" Qin Liehu said immediately. "We have a friendship that was tested by life and death. Also, your son is only entering Scenic Mountain Sect as an in-name disciple. What happens in the future will depend on the young fellow."


    Xu Dahan turned to look at his son.


    Xu Lie''s cheeks were bulging from the food he stuffed in his mouth but he nodded immediately.


    "Do well!" Xu Dahan said.


    Xu Lie swallowed the desserts in his mouth and said immediately, "Don''t you worry, Father."


    "The path has opened up in front of you, so do well." Xu Dahan was filled with anticipation. Even family clans with greater powers than his would find it extremely difficult to send their children into Scenic Mountain Sect. Now, his son, Xu Lie, was ahead of many children from large family clans.


    ¡­


    Hong family.


    "Brother, without my permission, no one is to disturb me." Hong Lingtong instructed solemnly.


    "Don''t worry," replied his eldest brother.


    "Okay."


    Hong Lingtong entered the chamber and with a rumble, a stone door closed.


    The seclusion chamber was specially constructed. It had traps and array formations. It was almost impossible for people beneath the Connate realm to barge in.


    "Back then, I confronted the greatest danger by stealing the treasures left behind by the ancients from Black Demon King''s son." Inside the chamber, Hong Lingtong sat cross-legged on a mat. "Now that I''ve done sufficient preparations, I can break through into the Connate at any time! The seclusion this time¡­ is first to fix my treasure and secondly to enter the Connate realm. When the time comes, my strength will increase by leaps and bounds."


    "I''ll also be qualified to investigate the Immortal Cave Abode." Hong Lingtong thought to himself. "However, I''m still quite lacking and won''t be able to enter alone. It''s best if I get a partner? Qin Yun is extremely powerful and he had saved me from Black Demon King. Furthermore, he is very trustworthy and is suitable for being roped in."


    "I''ll leave everything to after I make a breakthrough."


    Hong Lingtong stopped thinking and closed his eyes to calm his mind.


    ******


    Days passed one by one.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were still thinking of the possibilities of revenge from the Zhongli family! However, it never came. In a blink of an eye, more than half a month passed. It was almost winter.


    The morning sun rose and the sun was nice and warm.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao basked in the sun as they leisurely walked down the streets.


    "Where do you plan on eating?" Yi Xiao asked with a smile.


    "We haven''t come out in days. Why don''t we go to Cloud Restaurant? I want to eat their Hot Oil Noodles. In all of Grand Dominance, only their rendition has the local flavors of Qin Prefecture. Back when I toured the world, I went to Qin Prefecture and had a taste of it."


    Cloud Restaurant was quite an extravagant place but many of their dishes were very authentic.


    Yi Xiao could not help but laugh. "Look at you, you are almost drooling."


    "Just thinking of it makes me want to drool." Qin Yun said with a laugh.


    "Alright, let''s do it. Let''s go to Cloud Restaurant." Yi Xiao nodded.


    The two strolled down the bustling streets that had hawker stalls lining the sides. Commoners were bargaining at the stalls.


    Not far ahead was a stall that repaired umbrellas.


    The owner was an elder with a messy white beard. He wore a thick patched cotton jacket. Although he was old, his hands were nimble. In a moment, he repaired an umbrella. He handed it to the woman in front of him with an honest smile. "The repair is done."


    The woman took the umbrella, opened it and closed it a few times. After a careful inspection, she smiled and nodded. She took out two coins from her pouch and handed it over. "Here you go."


    The elder stretched out his somewhat blackened hand and accepted it with a beaming smile.


    The woman turned and left.


    The elder sat down and continued repairing the umbrellas the other customers left with him. He would look up at times as the sunlight shined on him. He also found it very comfortable. As he looked at the commoners on the street, his eyes were filled with unsophisticated passion.


    When Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked over from afar, Qin Yun also noticed the umbrella-repairing elder. With his eyesight, he could tell at a glance that he was a skilled craftsman.


    Now, even without his flying sword, Qin Yun could sense a three-hundred-foot radius around him. Within this range, he could instinctively make a judgment purely with his subconscious.


    "Phew."


    The umbrella-repairing elder looked at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao as he smiled humbly.


    When facing rich scions, these ordinary craftsmen would appear very humble. Following that, he lowered his head and continued with his work. He picked up an umbrella and studied it carefully. When Qin Yun and Yi Xiao passed his stall, his focus was still on the umbrella. He pressed the button on the umbrella and was about to open the umbrella to study it carefully.


    When he pressed the button, the umbrella opened¡ª


    "Boom!!!"


    The umbrella in his hand instantly blasted out dazzling red streams of light. It was much more terrifying than any Demon Annihilation Crossbow or Star Chasing Crossbow.


    At that moment, he was only ten feet away from Qin Yun and Yi Xiao!


    A distance of ten feet!


    The umbrella suddenly shot out the red beams at a supersonic speed. That instantaneous speed was not inferior to Qin Yun''s flying sword. This bit of distance was not something even Connate True Core realm cultivators could react in time! Even if they subconsciously reacted, their bodies might not be able to parry it in time.


    Multiform Poison Codger was best at machinery arts!


    Some umbrellas had more complicated structures. A specially-made umbrella was enough to prevent cultivators from noticing anything special.


    "Die."


    "If I was a kilometer away, a sword immortal would be able to easily kill me with a flying sword. Even if I had more powerful techniques, I would not be able to do a thing to you at a great distance. Now that you are right in front of me, my machinery arts is a forbidden art that the imperial government keeps disclosed. Hmph! Even typical soldiers can threaten powerful cultivators with a Star Chasing Crossbow. As for this specially-made umbrella of mine¡­ it has killed someone at the Connate True Core realm before. He reacted eventually but did not have the time to block it." The old man''s eyes were filled with excitement.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The red light that shot out from the umbrella formed nine beams! Every beam was extremely fast and ruthless! Most importantly, the distance was very short!


    Qin Yun noticed it from the corner of his eyes as a cold glimmer flashed across his eyes.


    Weng¨C


    Formless waves instantly enveloped the surroundings.


    The area within a sixty-foot radius instantly turned silent. There was complete isolation both in and out. Beyond sixty feet, no one could see what was happening within sixty feet of Qin Yun. When the elder saw the surroundings turned dark, his expression could not help but change. However, he continued staring at the nine red beams of light with anticipation.


    The nine red beams that shot out at high speed was enveloped by an invisible will.


    "Sword Intent Unleashed, Naturally Formed Domain!"


    Unlike his initial breakthrough, Qin Yun''s sword intent domain could now envelop a region of sixty feet.


    The sword intent wrapped around the nine red beams of light, causing their speed to rapidly slow down! They posed a threat because of the machinery arts but their speed was constantly reducing with the sword intent obstructing them. Finally, they stopped an inch in front of Qin Yun. They were nine black steel needles and the reason why they manifested as red beams of light was purely that of their immense speed.


    Multiform Poison Codger widened his eyes as he looked at Qin Yun in horror.


    The scene that had just happened left him astounded!


    Without using his flying sword, Qin Yun was able to make the nine black steel needles stop! He knew very well that impeding them purely with Heaven and Earth powers at a distance of ten feet would, at best, reduce the steel irons by a hundredth.


    "Intent domain? How is that possible. The legendary intent domain¡­ is only mastered by a total of six Connate Golden Core realm experts in all of Jiang Prefecture, including the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands. And most of the six have only gained a basic grasp of the intent. Qin Yun has already reached the stage of an intent domain?" Multiform Poison Codger was flabbergasted.


    While reeling in shock, he hurriedly sent a voice transmission, "Don''t kill me. I''m Multiform Poison Codger. I''m skilled in machinery arts. I cultivate in the Physical Establishing Sage and am best at transformations. I¡­"


    He wanted to live! Naturally, he had to demonstrate his usefulness!


    Before he even finished his voice transmission, a piece of cloth, containing sword intent, from the ruined umbrella in his hand flew up.


    Pew!


    It pierced through his heart, widening Multiform Poison Codger''s eyes as he collapsed to the ground. His body contorted as he reverted to a thin and short tyrannical elder. That was Multiform Poison Codger''s true appearance.


    Inside the sword intent domain, everything could contain sword intent and become a powerful weapon.


    When Qin Yun saw this scene, he thought to himself. "My breakthrough in sword intent should only be known by you and Yi Xiao. Since you know of it, it''s best you die."

 123 Multiform Poison Codgers Treasures

    Chapter 123: Multiform Poison Codger''s Treasures


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao was in a state of shock from beginning to end. Multiform Poison Codger''s attack was too sinister and quick. She would not have been able to fend against it if it were her.


    "Qin Yun, if he was assassinating me, I would already be dead." Yi Xiao said from the side.


    "Combat and assassinations are completely different matters. Assassinations depend on it being a sudden attack, catching the target by surprise! Once the attack fails, nearly all hope is lost." Qin Yun waved his hand and the Multiform Poison Codger''s Cosmic Bag flew over from his corpse. The umbrellas beside him flew over as well. Qin Yun attempted one umbrella after another by knocking on them and carefully studying them.


    Yi Xiao looked at Multiform Poison Codger''s corpse and could not help but say, "He was an ordinary old umbrella-mender a moment ago but now, he has changed so much. For his body to change so easily, he must cultivate in Dharma formulations like Physical Establishing Sage."


    In the control of one''s body, Physical Establishing Sage was the most impressive Dharma formulation!


    "Furthermore, those who typically cultivate in the Physical Establishing Sage would focus on having a strong body! Even if their looks change, there would be very minute changes. For him to undergo such changes that even his bones, figure, and the color of his beard changes¡­ He must have cultivated in a Physical Establishing Sage Dharma formulation that is adept at transformations." Yi Xiao was baffled. "To be a thin old man that is adept at assassination, I can only think of one person. Multiform Poison Codger."


    Qin Yun took out a special umbrella he found after studying the various umbrellas and placed it in his Cosmic Bag.


    "Yes, his name is Multiform Poison Codger. When he failed to assassinate me, he frantically sent me a voice transmission, saying that he was Multiform Poison Codger and was skilled in machinery arts and transformations," confirmed Qin Yun. "However, it might have been fine if he didn''t say a thing. The moment he revealed his infamous name of Multiform Poison Codger, I naturally did not hesitate to kill him, considering how his hands are stained with the blood of many human lives."


    "There has not been enough evidence to indict Multiform Poison Codger for his crimes but the imperial government has put up a warrant for his arrest." Yi Xiao nodded. "With his transformation arts, he has probably secretly done a lot of heinous crimes. However, because he keeps a very low profile, the imperial government has not put in the effort to apprehend him. After all, he is a mere Connate False Core realm cultivator. Capturing him would be extremely troublesome as well. The imperial government isn''t willing to spend too much effort."


    Qin Yun checked the Cosmic Bag and scanned it with his psyche before keeping it.


    ubsequently, his sword intent enveloped Multiform Poison Codger''s corpse and with a thought, the corpse instantly dissipated. Even a single drop of blood was disintegrated, leaving nothing behind.


    "A sword intent domain sure is great for getting rid of evidence." Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    "Unfortunately, my domain only spans sixty feet. If not, it would be more powerful." Qin Yun sighed. Sword intent would permeate the sixty-foot domain, resulting in sand or dust to become his weapon. The items on his enemy''s body could be used as a weapon as well! He could even forcefully control the enemy''s weapon! Of course, if the enemy was very strong, he could not control it. All he could do was weaken it.


    "By the way, would that battle be discovered by the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror?" asked Yi Xiao immediately.


    "No," Qin Yun shook his head. "I only augmented a piece of cloth with my sword intent. It''s likely at the strength of the peak Connate True Core realm. It''s still lacking greatly compared to my flying sword rainbow beam. As for his machinery skill? It''s only extremely fast. Its strength is only at the Connate True Core realm. Compared to my attack with the cloth, its strength is slightly weaker."


    "That''s good. You should keep your sword intent domain a secret as best as you can. In that case, even if the Zhongli family tries to scheme against you, they would underestimate your strength and suffer in the end," said Yi Xiao.


    "By the way, are there other cultivators or demons around?" asked Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword appeared in his hand. Through it, he sensed his surroundings


    No cultivator or demon was found upon inspection.


    "There shouldn''t be any. It''s unheard of that Multiform Poison Codger has accomplices when he commits crimes." Qin Yun said with a laugh. "Let''s go. I still need to eat my Hot Oil Noodles."


    "All you know is food." Yi Xiao was rendered helpless as she accompanied Qin Yun to Cloud Restaurant.


    With their casting of a Divine Concealment Spell, the passers-by around them could not remember them. They only realized that an umbrella-mending elder had suddenly disappeared beside them, as well as how an area spanning sixty feet fell into darkness. They were only feeling astounded. The few passers-by that were within sixty feet were expelled previously.


    "An immortal!"


    "It must be some means of immortals."


    "Just now, the region turned dark."


    The passers-by exclaimed one after another.


    ¡­


    Cloud Restaurant. Seventh level.


    In an exquisite room.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were sitting at a table as delicious food was served. A big bowl of Hot Oil Noodles was brought in front of Qin Yun.


    "Sir, all the dishes have been served," a waitress said.


    "Alright. All of you, leave. Without my instructions, none of you should enter," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes." The waitresses shuffled out and closed the door to the room.


    Qin Yun continued wolfing down on his Hot Oil Noodles. He had specially requested for a humongous serving. Across him, Yi Xiao laughed as she glanced at him. She was in no rush as she ate slowly. This was a habit she learned with her upbringing in the Yi family. As for Qin Yun, he grew up in a village and had roamed the world for six years. He often ate with hooligans and, with fiendish demons lurking in the world, all the hooligans did was think with their other head. As such, their eating habits were naturally a lot more unrestrained.


    Qin Yun typically ate rather quickly as well.


    "Alright, I''m full." After Qin Yun finished the food, he immediately went one corner and grabbed Multiform Poison Codger''s Cosmic Bag to pour its contents out.


    Items began to fall out one after another, forming a tiny pile.


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Under the control of the Heaven and Earth powers, the items immediately began splitting into various categories.


    "There is actually such stuff?" Yi Xiao''s face blushed slightly.


    In one corner, there were private items like underwear and it was easy to tell at a glance that they had been used before.


    "Destroy them." Qin Yun said immediately. The intimate wear was immediately reduced to nothingness when it was enveloped by sword intent. This was much better than burning items to rid traces of items.


    After splitting the items apart, he carefully looked through the loot.


    As for treasure?


    Compared to the items he swept off from Princess Martial Maple, Multiform Poison Codger had fewer treasures. However, it was as good as Gongye Bing''s. After all, a powerful assassin would have treasures that exceeded cultivators at the same level if they could live long.


    "He has a few cultivation formulations with him." Qin Yun flipped through the cultivation formulations. They were manuals made of special materials and were extremely precious. He shook his head gently. "The most powerful Qi Refinement formulation peaks at the Connate True Core realm. Perhaps, these were obtained by Multiform Poison Codger by some other means. Unfortunately, it doesn''t include his Physical Establishing Sage formulation."


    Yi Xiao added, "A Physical Establishing Sage formulation that allows for all sorts of transformations must be something he learned from somewhere. As for the cultivation manual¡­ he probably doesn''t have the right to carry it with him."


    "But there are manuals on machinery arts and venom arts." Qin Yun flipped through them and his eyes could not help but light up.


    The machinery arts recorded in the book was extremely abstruse.


    "So this is called the Flying Crane Shadow." Qin Yun was holding a cylindrical item.


    "This is called ''Heavenly Lightning Strike." Qin Yun took out another spherical item.


    Qin Yun confirmed the names of the poisonous items one after another.


    "These machinery and poisonous items are rather rare and are useful." Qin Yun said. "Yi Xiao, this Flying Crane Shadow''s strength allows one to reach the peak Connate True Core realm. Do you need it?"


    "No, I don''t. My Lightning Dharma is even faster. Its strength is not much weaker than it is," replied Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Qin Yun, with these, you probably have found quite a number of cultivation manuals, right?" said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "There are some. That water ape, Gongye Bing, and the group of people with Princess Martial Maple had cultivation manuals among their treasures. But most of them were ordinary, with a few special ones." Qin Yun smiled and said, "If I must count, I already have two cultivation formulations that can reach the Connate True Core realm. I also have books on talisman arts and even alchemy. However, they are too common and pedestrian. As for these machinery and venom arts, they are rather powerful. This Multiform Poison Codger has only mastered about seventy percent of the machinery arts. If he were to master it completely, only someone with strength at the Connate Golden Core realm would be able to withstand his attacks"


    Yi Xiao chuckled. "With so many Dharma formulations, you can even establish a sect."


    "That''s right." Qin Yun nodded. "The Sword Immortal Legacy I obtained is a complete legacy. That senior, Daoist Chen, wished that juniors would be able to spread and flourish it. When I have sufficient strength, I will establish a sect too, a sword immortal sect! As for these manuals, I can give it to interested disciples for cultivating. My Qin family currently has some distinguished mercenaries. If they do a good job, I can also pass these formulations to them for cultivation."


    Now was the period when he was improving by leaps and bounds, so he naturally lacked the time and effort to establish a sect.


    To establish a sect? Leave it to the future!


    The reason why factions like the Scenic Mountain Sect established good ties with Qin Yun so early on was due to the potential they saw in him. But even so, they never imagined that Qin Yun had managed to grasp sword intent through Expertise Nearing Dao in the Postnatal realm, and that he had reached the sword intent domain at the age of twenty-two.


    ¡­


    When Multiform Poison Codger died, Myriad Temple immediately learned of it.


    "Oh?"


    The blood-colored flood dragon was astonished. "Multiform Poison Codger''s messaging mark has dissipated. He actually failed and died? That old man''s machinery arts are very powerful and he has rich experience. Although that Qin Yun is powerful, he is still young. Logically speaking, Multiform Poison Codger should have quite a fair bit of chance. But failing is quite normal too. There are always failures in assassinations."


    "I have to find a more powerful assassin." The dragon did not care about Multiform Poison Codger''s death. His relationship with the Myriad Temple was only a cooperation. Since he was dead, he naturally would not receive the reward of an Immortal Crystal.


    It also meant that Myriad Temple did not suffer any losses. At most, it lost a partnering operative.


    Myriad Temple''s information network was extremely good. Its partners were spread among humans, fiendish demons, and members from the Water race. As for clients, only those with sufficient strength or status would receive their invitation. For example, Matron Le''s invitation was only because she was Zhongli Patriarch''s wife.

 124 Evil Dragon Mountains Three Demon Monarchs

    Chapter 124: Evil Dragon Mountain''s Three Demon Monarchs


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was a day with good weather at a village with a population of thousands. The guards were on alert on an arrow tower while the children in the village were running around. The scene was peaceful and quiet.


    Phew! Phew! Phew!


    Three black-robed figures revealed themselves from three black-colored twisters that descended. They were a flood dragon demon, a leopard demon, and a cat demon.


    "Demons! Demons!"


    "Run!"


    "Demons! Children, my children!"


    The villagers broke out in hysteria. Some even rushed forward to carry their children away.


    The flood dragon demon scanned the surroundings. "Take action. Do it as fast as possible."


    "Yes, Brother." The leopard and cat demon replied before they immediately took action.


    They transformed into two black streams of light that shuttled through the various regions of the village.


    As for the flood dragon, he exhaled deeply. The breath he exhaled was slightly dark in color. It swept through every corner of the village like a gust of wind. Any villager that made contact with it would collapse to the ground silently. Their bodies turned thin as their flesh and blood were absorbed clean. The black breath also gradually suffused the color of blood¡­


    The black breath howled in every corner. The crimson color turned richer as more lives were culled.


    "Release the Sounding Arrows!"


    "Release the Sounding Arrows!"


    The village guards shouted with burning eyes.


    Immediately, a Sounding Arrow sounded with an ear-piercing shrill. However, the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers had insulated the sound, causing the Sounding Arrow from being effective a distance away.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The leopard and cat demons flitted around crazily and wherever they passed, injuries would appear on the villagers'' bodies. In addition, their bodies would rapidly shrivel into what seemed like desiccated corpses.


    There were villagers who ran desperately with their children out the village. However, the Heaven and Earth powers lifted them up into the sky as they were thrown back into the village. Then, a black wind with the color of blood would rip through them, shriveling the villagers and their children''s body into breathless husks.


    It took less than thirty seconds from beginning to end before the entire village with a population of thousands was wiped out.


    "Heave¡ª" The flood dragon suddenly took a deep breath as the black breath brought back with it dense and rich sanguine light. It was absorbed into the flood dragon''s nose and mouth.


    After he finished the absorption, the flood dragon demon sat cross-legged and began cultivating quietly.


    Phew! Phew!


    The leopard and cat demons flew back and immediately sat by the side to cultivate.


    "Is it done?" Moments later, the flood dragon looked at his partners.


    "Yea." The leopard and cat demons nodded.


    The flood dragon solemnly took out a unique black figurine. It was about a foot long but it was a Fiendcelestial figurine that emitted a strange captivating allure.


    "Phew." The flood dragon immediately opened his mouth and spewed out a blood-colored beam that shot towards the Fiendcelestial figurine.


    The leopard and cat demons also spewed out two blood-colored beams that fused into the Fiendcelestial figurine.


    When the blood-colored beams infused the ordinary-looking Fiendcelestial figurine, it emitted all sorts of strange lights. The figurine''s eyes turned much brighter as though it was alive as it looked at the three demons in front of it.


    The three demons only rested after they finished spewing out the sanguine beams from their mouths.


    "Thousands of humans have been dedicated to the Fiendcelestial. With this batch, I estimate that we have gathered nearly half of the flesh and blood powers required. It will be over once we finish gathering everything." The flood dragon put away the Fiendcelestial figurine.


    The leopard demon snorted angrily, "We have never left a trace in Cloud Prefecture before. Human cultivators did not even know that the crimes were done by us from Evil Dragon Mountain. Who knew that in one of the villages we slaughtered, one of the men had a secret relationship with a fox demoness. That fox demoness pursued us crazily and even prompted the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to discover our Evil Dragon Mountain. The twelve counts of village massacres were piled on us. Now, we don''t even dare to return to Evil Dragon Mountain."


    The cat demoness''s voice was a little colder. "Second Brother, back when we slaughtered the humans with Eldest Brother, we knew the outcome of being exposed. Eldest Brother''s cultivation had reached a most critical juncture. As long as he broke through, he would be at the Connate Golden Core realm. Back then, we took the risk to engage in the slaughters¡­but it was previously agreed upon. There''s no need to feel any regret now."


    "I don''t regret it. I only blame it on that fox demoness. She forced us to escape to the Lu Prefecture," said the leopard demon.


    The flood dragon let out a rapturous laugh. "The amount of flesh and blood dedicated is almost half done. Once all of it is dedicated, the Fiendcelestial will bestow me with great gifts. My fiendish body would improve again and I''ll break through to the Connate Golden Core realm. As for you two, the Fiendcelestial will likely bestow you with something, allowing your strength to greatly increase. When the time comes, would we be afraid of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance? And that six-tailed fox demoness thinks that we can''t do anything to her because of her movement techniques. When I enter the Golden Core realm, I''ll squeeze her to death directly! No, I''ll capture her and torture her to death!"


    "Yes, torture her to death," said the leopard demon immediately.


    "Second Brother, Third Sister. Quickly deal with the village. Make it clean. I do not want the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to suspect that the slaughtering of this village is a result of our Evil Dragon Mountain. After you are done, we shall leave this county and head for the next."


    "Alright, Brother."


    The leopard and cat demon proceeded to carry out the orders.


    Moments later¡ª


    The three great demons left the village with the wind. It was only night time when soldiers from the local on-site inspection office discovered that the village''s villagers were all dead.


    Everyone was dead?


    The local on-site inspection office immediately informed the higher-ups. News reached County Governor Manor before reaching Lu Prefecture''s prefecture overseer! The prefecture overseer was infuriated as he immediately sent forces to investigate!


    ¡­


    In the clouds.


    The flood dragon great demon and the other two demons were flying.


    "Oh?" Suddenly, they came to a halt.


    "Brother, what''s the matter?" The leopard and cat demons were puzzled.


    The flood dragon flipped his hand and produced a bronze mirror. A blood-colored flood dragon with unfathomable might appeared in the mirror.


    "Senior." The flood dragon immediately spoke respectfully.


    "Lou Li, I heard you are pursued by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance after you slaughtered humans in Cloud Prefecture?" The blood-colored flood dragon said, "You were too rash."


    "It was because a fox demoness had leaked the information. But whatever, I have already made plans." The flood dragon laughed, "Senior, is there something good that Myriad Temple has for me?"


    "There is one." The blood-colored flood dragon said, "In Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance, there is a cultivator by the name of Qin Yun. He is a newly promoted Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."


    "I''ve heard of him." The flood dragon nodded. "For an itinerant sword immortal to be that powerful is truly rare."


    "Kill him and you will be rewarded with two Immortal Crystals," said the blood-colored flood dragon.


    The flood dragon''s eyes lit up as he nodded, "Alright, I''ll accept the mission."


    "How long will it take to complete it?" asked the blood-colored flood dragon.


    "It can''t be rushed. In three months," replied the flood dragon.


    "Alright, this is Qin Yun''s detailed information. Read it carefully." The dragon cut off the communication once it was done speaking. Rows of dense text appeared on the bronze mirror.


    The flood dragon read it carefully with the leopard and cat demons.


    "Brother, are you going to kill the sword immortal, Qin Yun?" The leopard demon asked. "Aren''t we busy with the sacrifice?"


    "We have been extremely careful while gathering the powers from the flesh and blood. Every village we wipe out needs us to flee five hundred kilometers away. We wait for a period of time before taking action again carefully. This way, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance might not be able to find us, but to gather all the powers from the flesh and blood would probably take a year or two." The flood dragon said, "Our original plan was to travel across the various prefectures. Let''s go to the Jiang Prefecture while passing by it. By killing that Qin Yun, I can obtain two Immortal Crystals. With what I have previously accumulated¡­ I can exchange for some treasures and attempt another breakthrough. Perhaps, I might be able to directly break through into the Connate Golden Core realm."


    "Even if the breakthrough doesn''t happen, it will ensure a robust foundation."


    "When we gather enough power from the flesh and blood, the Fiendcelestial would bestow its grace on us. The more robust my foundation, the higher my chances of me entering the Connate Golden Core realm," said the flood dragon.


    Although he was about to break through, it was still the gap between the Connate True Core to the Golden Core. He did not have the confidence of succeeding either.


    Naturally, it was best if he made even more preparations.


    "Well, when we kill Qin Yun, we can also take advantage of wiping out more villagers as a byproduct of the battle," said the cat demoness.


    "Killing an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador is indeed very simple through our collective efforts." The leopard demon was very confident as well.


    They had the capacity to be confident.


    Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs, Flood Dragon King Lou Li was a flood dragon himself. He was naturally born strong! Furthermore, he had cultivated in Fiendcelestial heritage and now, his accumulation of power meant that he could break through to the Connate Golden Core at any time! While fleeing recently, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance had sent Golden Core realm cultivators but he had managed to successfully escape.


    Although the other two great demon monarchs were much weaker, their strength was exceedingly close to an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    The trio was collectively infamous.


    This time, they were hoping to amass a large amount of blood and flesh, allowing the Flood Dragon King to break through into the Connate Golden Core realm.


    ¡­


    With so many fiendish demons in the world, there were some that entrenched themselves in a particular area and there were others that scattered themselves in various parts of the world.


    There were two reasons why one would wander the world. First, they lacked the ability to protect themselves. By settling down in one area, they were afraid of being vanquished by cultivators! Therefore, they could only wander the world. The other possibility was that they were too cruel and had wreaked too much havoc. For example, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance did its best to hunt down Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs! They naturally could not stay in one place and had to wander everywhere.


    Such wandering fiendish demons were even crueler!


    To the Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs, killing Qin Yun was a freelance job done on the way past Jiang Prefecture!


    An Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?


    They did not think anything of him.


    ******


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were by the lake discussing the Dharmic Dao. Of course, about a third of the lake belonged to the massive Qin Manor''s grounds.


    "Second Young Master! Second Young Master!" Far away, Ah Gui shouted from the yard entrance.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun stopped in puzzlement. "Ah Gui, what''s the matter?"


    "Second Young Master, a cultivator has come to our residence and wants to be a distinguished mercenary of our Qin Manor," said Ah Gui immediately.

 125 Fifth-grade Flying Sword

    Chapter 125: Fifth-grade Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Your Qin Manor has quite a number of cultivators as distinguished mercenaries already, right?" Yi Xiao said with a smile.


    "Six," said Qin Yun. "With the one that just came, that would be seven."


    Yi Xiao nodded, "That''s already more than third-tier sects. That''s right, in terms of strength, just you alone are stronger than several second-tier sects."


    Typically, second-tier sects would avoid or escape if they encountered demon monarchs like the Black Demon King.


    However, Qin Yun''s flying sword had sent the Black Demon King scampering!


    If he were to encounter Black Demon King''s provocations again, Black Demon King would probably be instantly killed by the flying sword! But ever since the last encounter, Black Demon King was completely horrified. He no longer dared to make Qin Yun an enemy.


    "I''ll go and take a look at the background of this cultivator." Qin Yun got up.


    "Go busy yourself." Yi Xiao picked up a book beside her and flipped through it leisurely by the side of the lake.


    Qin Yun headed for a hall meant for hosting guests, where a thin youth was already sitting there. The youth immediately stood up even when Qin Yun was still a great distance away.


    "Young Master Qin." When Qin Yun walked into the hall, the thin youth immediately greeted him politely.


    Qin Yun sat in the seat of honor and looked at the youth that was standing in a restrained manner. He nodded and said, "Have a seat."


    Only then did the youth sit down before immediately saying, "My name is Chu Yuan, a local from the Chang Province of the Adjacent Sea County. I had been cultivating in Chang Province''s Solar Cave Conservatory. As I offended the Grass Magus Sect, the Solar Cave Conservatory expelled me¡­ I could only wander the world and when I heard of Young Master Qin''s inspiring reputation, I came specially to pledge my allegiance. Please accept me."


    "Solar Cave Conservatory is a third-tier cultivation sect. It naturally doesn''t dare to offend the Grass Magus Sect." Qin Yun nodded. "Indeed, the Grass Magus Sect does things in quite an overbearing manner. But tell me, how did you end up offending the Grass Magus Sect? Do not lie to me. If I were to find out any embellishments, you should know what sort of outcome awaits you if you deceive me."


    "Yes!" Chu Yuan nodded immediately. "How would I dare to deceive you, Young Master Qin? I will naturally be honest and speak no embellishments."


    "Go ahead and tell me." Qin Yun nodded.


    "I was dedicated to cultivation in Chang Province''s Solar Cave Conservatory. While traveling through the various provincial cities in the vicinity, I would mete out punishment when coming across injustice on the roads," said Chu Yuan. "However, I never expected that I had broken the leg of a foppish son of the Grass Magus Sect''s Elder. The Grass Magus Sect sent people to deal with me and thankfully, I escaped quickly or I would have died! The Grass Magus Sect also sent people to fault the Solar Cave Conservatory. The Conservatory Master could not offend the Grass Magus Sect so he expelled me. Ever since then, I''m no longer a disciple of the Solar Cave Conservatory. I also know that the Conservatory Master had no other choice and that it''s a good outcome. I wouldn''t implicate it."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Meting out punishment? What did that foppish son do for you to mete out punishment?"


    "He abducted commoner girls in broad daylight and pulled them straight into his carriage. When I discovered it, I saved that woman in a hotheaded action. I then taught him and his guards a lesson." Chu Yuan said immediately. "Later on, I learned that he was Grass Magus Sect Elder''s Liu Zhen''s son. That Liu Zhen is a Man Magus and has unfathomable magus arts."


    "Got it." Qin Yun nodded. "How''s your cultivation at present?"


    "I cultivate one of the Qi Refinement Dharma formulations of the Solar Cave Conservatory, the ''Extended Azure Art''. Cultivating it to the apex allows one the chance of reaching the Connate True Core realm but to date, the only person to step into the Connate False Core realm is the Conservatory Master himself. As for me, I''m currently at the eleventh stage of the Qi Refinement realm," Chu Yuan elaborated. "I usually cultivate in two talisman arts. One of them is the Azure Flame Talisman Arts, the most famous talisman art of the Solar Cave Conservatory. The other is the ''One Breath Capturing Art''. As for the other means I have, I mostly rely on some Dao talismans¡­"


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Small sects were just like that. The best Dharma spells they had were typically a mere handful.


    Chu Yuan waited nervously for Qin Yun''s reply. After all, he had offended the Grass Magus Sect and finding a backer was not easy. The Grass Magus Sect was rather infamous in the Jiang Prefecture! After all, it was the only magus sect in the Jiang Prefecture.


    "From today forth, stay here in my Qin Manor. The yearly remuneration will temporarily be a thousand taels of silver," said Qin Yun. "If you work diligently and honestly, I''ll have Dharma spells and treasures to bestow."


    "Yes, I will definitely do my best while working at Qin Manor. I''ll work hard for you, Young Master." Chu Yuan was overjoyed.


    The hiring of a servant typically cost eight to ten taels of silver a year.


    As for hiring experts at the ninth level of the Qi Refinement realm as guards would typically cost a few hundred taels of silver a year.


    As for hiring cultivators?


    Just the silvers alone would exceed ten thousand taels of silver.


    As for truly large clans, or important figures like the county governor, cultivators would be willing to pledge allegiance to them. They didn''t even request for high annual remunerations. Why? It was because these factions typically had Dharma spells and other manuals stored in them! Many itinerant cultivators wished to cultivate but had no outlet to do so. Therefore, a low remuneration was of little importance.


    But the Qin family was different. With an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador like Qin Yun around, it was more powerful than typical second-tier cultivation sects!


    By coming under it, that was equivalent to having a great backer! Furthermore, there were chances of obtaining Dharma spells, treasures in the future. Just like joining a sect, there would be cultivators willing to join it even without silver given.


    "Ah Gui, bring Chu Yuan to my father," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes," Ah Gui responded immediately.


    Chu Yuan was beaming for he no longer needed to worry about his future. He retreated respectfully.


    The reason why he had come to the Qin Manor was that he had heard that the Grass Magus Sect''s Grand Elder''s family clan, the Motai family, had previously offended the Qin family slightly. After Qin Yun became an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, the Grass Magus Sect even officially sent ambassadors to make recompense. Large amounts of gifts were given! Clearly, no matter how powerful the Grass Magus Sect was, it did not wish to make an enemy out of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun. They would rather provide compensation.


    His feud with an Elder''s son was nothing worth mentioning to the Qin Manor.


    "There are seven cultivators now and I haven''t even made any deliberate recruitment." Qin Yun shook his head. "In a few years, Qin Manor will probably have ten to twenty cultivators, a number more than the typical County Governor Manor would have."


    An Inspector Heavenly Ambassador''s family clan was naturally more attractive than a county governor.


    And having more cultivators in Qin Manor was a good thing. The array formations within the family and the security would be enhanced. It could also let the cultivators deal with most of the things outside of Qin Manor!


    ******


    Days passed one by one.


    Qin Yun was also very surprised. A month had passed ever since Multiform Poison Codger''s assassination. Yet, there was no new trouble.


    "It can''t be that the Zhongli family has given up, right?" Qin Yun thought to himself. "Did they only send Multiform Poison Codger?"


    "Who cares."


    "I''ll focus on cultivating my Intrinsic Flying Sword. Tonight, it will likely be able to break through to the fifth-grade." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a bed as he watched the floating silver sword in front of him.


    He took the Cosmic Bag from his waist and opened it.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Large amounts of items flew out and formed a tiny pile in the room.


    As Qin Yun circulated his Dharma formulations, the silver flying sword immediately began to extract the essence from the numerous treasures beneath it. The essence constantly fused into the Intrinsic Flying Sword as dots of light and just as he expected, after about thirty seconds of refinement, the silver flying sword began to vibrate intensely. It let out a sword hum and the refinement speed accelerated drastically. The treasures beneath it began to turn to dreg.


    Moments later, the sword hums came to a rest as the sword stopped absorbing the treasures'' essences.


    At that moment, it was light silver in color and its surface seemed to be covered by a layer of jade water. It felt like jade water was flowing across it and the original misty mirage it exuded seemed to disappear. It made the flying sword appear more substantial.


    "How beautiful. The Intrinsic Flying Sword has finally reached the fifth-grade! With this, I can release the might of a third-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun looked at the flying sword in front of him. There was a terrifying might accumulating within it subtly. As he sensed it, he nodded gently. "Even though I have reached the realm of having a sword intent domain, the flying sword''s enhancement has increased my strength by nearly twenty percent."


    The same moves had the same sword intent but the flying sword was much faster! Its strength was also more terrifying! That was the benefits of a Dharma treasure.


    Furthermore, his Intrinsic Flying Sword was nurtured using his Misty Rain Sword Intent. Therefore, it had a greater synergy when producing strikes that contained Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    And the higher his realm, the higher his strength. The Intrinsic Flying Sword had also a clear increase in strength. Consider a peerless sword immortal who had grasped the Sword Dao, a tree branch and a seventh or eighth-grade Dharma treasure flying sword would not differ much in strength in his hand. Due to an overtly weak Dharma treasure, it did not increase his strength much.


    It was even possible that under the nourishment of Sword Dao, an ordinary weapon could gradually transform into a Dharma treasure.


    Of course, Qin Yun was still a distance away from that level.


    "Phew." Qin Yun extended his hand as the three-inch-long flying sword landed in his palm. With a whoosh, the flying sword rapidly expanded to three feet.


    He got off the bed while holding the flying sword and walked out into the yard.


    In the dark night under the bright moon, Qin Yun held his fifth-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword and began using his Misty Rain Sword Arts.

 126 Bright Moon Over River

    Chapter 126: Bright Moon Over River


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The enhancement of the flying sword going from sixth-grade to fifth-grade was done by nurturing it constantly with sword intent. And in the recent few months, his Misty Rain Sword Intent had reached the realm of sword intent domain. It added several characteristics of sword intent to the flying sword after its breakthrough. Even a nonchalant wave of it would result in sword flashes that manifested a blurry misty rain that had a faint sense of exuberence and sentience.


    The demonstration of the Misty Rain Sword Art was naturally done easily.


    Unknowingly, the mid-autumn scene surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind. The gentle sounds of the river''s waters, the blurry moonlight and his uncontrollable kiss with Yi Xiao above the clouds.


    That gentle river water¡­


    The blurry moon hanging high in the sky¡­


    The fairy under the moon was even more unforgettable.


    "Phew!" Qin Yun put away his sword and stood there. He lightly exhaled a sword breath.


    Rip!


    He spewed out a white sword beam from his mouth that instantly tore through the skies, streaking across Grand Dominance City''s skyline. It was like the rising of a blurry moon over the river. Instantly, the sword beam instantly flew out ten kilometers and went beyond Grand Dominance City''s vicinity. Finally, it went beyond Qin Yun''s perceivable range of the Heaven and Earth powers. It finally flew dozens of kilometers through the clouds before it gradually dissipated.


    The sword beam traveled for dozens of kilometers but it was not a flying sword Dharma treasure but purely a sword beam! It was truly terrifying!


    "I''ve finally created this move." Qin Yun revealed a smile. "I shall call it Bright Moon Over River."


    A figure flew over and landed in Qin Yun''s yard. It was none other than Yi Xiao.


    "What happened? I sensed a very power shockwave," Yi Xiao said immediately. "I felt that it was at the peak Connate True Core realm."


    "I just comprehended a sword move. It is also the strongest attack in my Misty Rain Sword Art," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Qin Yun, your strongest sword move? Its strength is only that?" Yi Xiao was puzzled. She knew very well what Qin Yun''s strength was.


    Qin Yun smiled. "In order to not be detected by the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, I have produced that strike with a sword breath. I didn''t even use my flying sword but the strength is already much greater than I expected."


    "Just a sword breath?" Yi Xiao as astonished. "Just one sword beam?"


    "Just one." Qin Yun nodded.


    "If you were to release ten or even a hundred sword beams, that might¡­" exclaimed Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "It is currently my strongest move. Using it is quite difficult. Being able to release three sword beams with such a move is already remarkable."


    Yi Xiao observed Qin Yun''s look and could not help but say, "Look at that smug look of yours. Just a sword breath alone already has such might. If you were to use it with your Intrinsic Flying Sword, how terrifying would it be!? How is this move so powerful? What is its name?"


    "I just gave it a name. Bright Moon Over River." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao immediately understood the underlying meaning behind the move. She immediately thought of the night over the river during mid-autumn. She could not help but blush slightly as she stole a glance at him.


    "That night, my sword intent finally reached a climax, and I stepped into the realm of the sword intent domain," explained Qin Yun. "Over the past few months, I have been constantly trying to improve my Misty Rain Sword Art by perfectly converting my Misty Rain Sword Intent into powerful attacks. And the one I wished to create the most was a sword art that signified the feeling we enjoyed the moon over the river that night."


    "Today, my Intrinsic Flying Sword reached the fifth-grade. When I engaged in swordplay, I gained new insights and naturally created this move."


    "This move represents a new pinnacle in my Misty Rain Sword Intent."


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao. "Of course, it is only the present pinnacle. As I continue cultivating, I will constantly improve this move."


    As Qin Yun spoke, he walked towards Yi Xiao and extended his hand to hold hers.


    Yi Xiao did not dodge. Only her face blushed slightly.


    "The path of cultivation is long. Will you walk it together with me?" Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao held Qin Yun''s hand and looked up at him. "I only wish to hold your hand, and grow old with you, never abandoning you in life and in death."


    "Never abandoning you in life and in death!" Qin Yun nodded.


    The couple looked at each other.


    Qin Yun hugged Yi Xiao as she leaned into his embrace.


    The night was silent. The two could hear each other''s heartbeats.


    "Qin Yun," Yi Xiao whispered while in Qin Yun''s embrace. "Next February, I''ll have to return to the Divine Firmament Chapter."


    "Return to the Divine Firmament Chapter? Is there something?" asked Qin Yun.


    "The Spring Lightning ushers in the Lightning Pool. That is the best opportunity to enter the Lightning Pool," explained Yi Xiao. "I''m currently cultivating the Divine Lightning of Connate Breath. Once I attain perfection, I can cultivate the strongest Lightning Dharma of the Divine Firmament Chapter¡ªDivine Firmament Lightning Dharma. The Yi family has been nurturing me also because they wish I am able to master the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. My master taught me also because she hopes I will eventually grasp it. It will take three months of seclusion cultivation inside the Lightning Pool. When I''m done cultivating, I''ll immediately return to Grand Dominance to meet you again."


    "Alright. Cultivation is important as well." Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "It''s only three months. It will pass quickly."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao led lives like an immortal couple in Grand Dominance County.


    And in a rural village in Po Prefecture, the entire mountain village''s inhabitants were dead. There was a massive battle happening above the village in the sky.


    "Flood Dragon King, don''t the lot of you think of escaping today." A white piece of silk flew across the sky as countless white threads reinforced it. An absolutely beautiful woman had six furry snow-white tails behind her. Her body was like a mirage and she appeared everywhere.


    "Scram!"


    The gigantic black dragon claw resembled a tiny mountain as it peeked beneath the clouds. It ripped lines through the clouds that tore apart a number of the beauty''s figures. However, her other figures continued to be sparsely scattered everywhere.


    "Brother, this fox demoness''s movement techniques are too powerful. We can''t kill her. Let''s leave immediately." The leopard demon said hastily.


    "Yes, let''s go." The angry Flood Dragon King had attempted several moves. Despite his strength taking the absolute advantage, he was still unable to touch his opponent. "As expected of someone with the nine-tailed fox bloodline. When I enter the Connate Golden Core realm, I''ll definitely come for you and torture you to vent the anger in my heart."


    Phew.


    Flood Dragon King led the leopard and cat demons away as they fled immediately.


    Boom!


    They fled with all their might. As a dragon that swam through the clouds, he was extremely fast. Although the six-tailed fox demoness was chasing with all her might behind them, they eventually escaped her perception of the Heaven and Earth powers. Soon, she lost all traces of them.


    Moments later.


    "Miss Seventh." A golden airship rushed over. There were three human cultivators onboard and the leader, a white-robed man, said immediately, "Where are the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain?"


    "You people were too slow!" The six-tailed fox demoness''s beautiful face showed anger. "I have been chasing them for months and after finally finding them, I immediately informed you. They escaped by the time you come!"


    "Rushing here takes time. We have already rushed here as fast as we could," explained the white-robed leader.


    "You people from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance are truly useless. It looks like I''ll have to rely on my Heavenly Demon Palace." The six-tailed fox demoness, Seventh Madam Yan, was burning with anger.


    "In terms of manpower in the world, no one can match us, humans," consoled the white-robed man. "The evil dragon is just too crafty and he escapes too quickly."


    Seventh Madam Yan''s eyes were brimming with tears.


    She was angry and disgruntled but she also knew that they were right! The Inspector Heavenly Alliance had truly rushed here as fast as they could.


    How many powerful cultivators would be like her? She had searched for them all over the world without rest. Upon coming across the tiniest clue, she would constantly fly to every region to investigate. It was hatred that made her act in such a crazy manner. After months of investigations, she was finally lucky to find them. Yet, they had escaped. When would be the next time she could find them again?


    "So what if we can find them?"


    "I can''t kill them, not a single one of them. If not for me using my movement techniques, I am far from that Flood Dragon King''s match." Seventh Madam Yan felt bitter. Following that, she thought of the vow she had made in front of a grave. Thinking back to the wonderful days of the past, Seventh Madam Yan''s heart surged with endless hatred. "Darling, regardless of anything, I will pursue them to the ends of the world to kill them to avenge you."


    With that, Seventh Madam Yan vanished into a cloud and departed.


    "Sigh."


    The three cultivators on the golden ship shook their heads secretly.


    "Seventh Madam Yan has nearly gone mad chasing the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain." The white-robed man shook his head. "So what if she chases up to them? Flood Dragon King is too powerful. He cultivates in the Fiendcelestial heritage and has long reached the peak Connate True Core realm! His true form is also a flood dragon¡­ His combat strength is so strong that he can fight a Connate Golden Core realm expert. Previously, Flood Dragon King was able to escape even when my Uncle-Master found him. To be able to escape from the hands of a Connate Golden Core realm expert, such a great demon is just too difficult to kill."


    "Besides, every prefecture only has that many Connate Golden Core realm experts. Either they have to watch over an important area, or they have to stay in their own sects or family clans. The three demon monarchs from Evil Dragon Mountain are aware of the locations of these Connate Golden Core realm experts and avoid those places. Even if Seventh Madam Yan were to discover the three demon monarchs, the Golden Core realm cultivators will not be able to rush there in time due to the great distance."


    "There are too many fiendish demons in the world. Although the three demon monarchs are powerful, they are more crafty. The confirmed crimes that they are charged with aren''t too exaggerated either. The imperial government needs to deal with too many fiendish demons in the world. So they are unwilling to waste too much effort on three demon monarchs that are constantly on the run."


    "Forget it, we can''t do much to the three demon monarchs. Even if we encounter them, the combined efforts of the three of us can barely hold them back."


    As the three cultivators conversed, they left while riding the golden ship.


    Humans and fiendish demons had been fighting since time immemorial. Although humans had the upper hand, fiendish demons were not that easily dealt with.


    ¡­


    Phew.


    Flood Dragon King and company were flying in the clouds.


    "That fox demoness is practically haunting us. We have been scurrying everywhere in the world but still, she has managed to find us." Leopard Demon King said hatefully.


    "A male human mortal is enough to make her go this crazy?" Flood Dragon King said angrily as well.


    "She might have caught us this time, but we will lie low for a period of time. It''s best we leave Po Prefecture," said Cat Demon Queen.


    Flood Dragon King nodded slightly. "Alright then. We might as well head for Jiang Prefecture! Let''s go there and slaughter that Qin Yun!"


    "Alright." Leopard Demon King nodded. "Onward to Jiang Prefecture."


    "When we kill Qin Yun and obtain the Immortal Crystals, that Qin Yun will probably have quite a bit of treasure. When the time comes, you can attempt another breakthrough, Brother." Cat Demon Queen said.


    "Haha¡­ Who knows, I might break through to the Connate Golden Core in one fell swoop. Let''s go! Onwards to Grand Dominance County!" Floor Dragon King guffawed and immediately changed their direction.


    Phew.


    The three demon monarchs flew among the clouds and headed for Jiang Prefecture.

 127 Immortals Cave Abode

    Chapter 127: Immortal''s Cave Abode


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On a peak of a nameless hill in Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance''s Yangshe Province, three figures suddenly whizzed and appeared. They were the three demon monarchs from Evil Dragon Mountain that had come from Po Prefecture.


    "This is Grand Dominance County''s Yangshe Province. Grand Dominance City is north of here and we are about two hundred and fifty kilometers away from it. We are more than five hundred kilometers away from Golden Qin County City." Flood Dragon King nodded slightly. "As long as we lay a trap in Yangshe Province, we will lure that Qin Yun over! Even if he discovers any danger and summons cultivators from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to come here, it will take a while to fly here from Golden Qin County."


    "Eldest Brother, you are being overly cautious. Once he enters our trap, he wouldn''t even be able to cry for help." Leopard Demon King said confidently. "If it were up to me, I''ll just head into Grand Dominance City to commit crimes and kill that Qin Yun directly."


    "Second Brother, engaging in murder in human county cities could incur the wrath of the human imperial government if too many human lives are involved," said the Cat Demon Queen. "It''s not something that can be compared to killing a few villages in secret. A county city has so many people living in it¡­ If the imperial government is angered, Human Emperor might even personally send terrifying existences over."


    Leopard Demon King was taken aback as he said in a hushed tone, "Then, we have to be careful and not implicate too many human lives."


    "That Qin Yun is not to be underestimated," Flood Dragon King said. "I am confident of killing him but I''m not confident of killing him without implicating the humans around. Third Sister¡­ I''ll leave the matter of laying the trap to you."


    "Don''t you worry."


    Cat Demon Queen said confidently, "All I need to do is pretend to be a powerful fiendish demon and wreak havoc in this area! Ordinary mortal soldiers will be powerless against me so Grand Dominance''s county governor will eventually have to request for Qin Yun''s help. Even if the imperial government''s help is requested¡­ it will eventually mobilize the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s cultivators, which is still Qin Yun. As the one watching over Grand Dominance, he will be the one responsible for wiping out fiends."


    "As long as he comes to wipe us out, the three of us can kill him." Cat Demon Queen began feeling a sense of anticipation.


    "Alright, I feel assured with you doing the job." Flood Dragon King nodded.


    "In about half a month, there should be enough of a stir. That Qin Yun will definitely come." Cat Demon Queen smiled faintly as her eyes suffused a green light.


    ******


    Grand Dominance City, Qin Manor.


    "Brother Hong, congratulations on entering the Connate realm. This is cause for a great celebration." Qin Yun smiled as he looked at Hong Lingtong beside him.


    "Thanks to Brother Qin Yun for saving me the other time or I would probably be dead under the hands of Black Demon King." Hong Lingtong''s face was beaming as well. How could he not be happy from entering the Connate realm? He believed that his heritage was impressive and although his combat strength was incomparable to Qin Yun or Yi Xiao, who cultivated in Lightning Dharma, his combat strength could barely reach the level of the Connate True Core realm.


    After all, Yi Xiao cultivated in the most orthodox heritage from the Daoist sacred land, Divine Firmament Chapter. Once she entered the Connate False Core realm, she could match ordinary cultivators at the Connate True Core realm. In the future, she would also cultivate in the best Lightning Dharma, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. Lightning Dharma had always been synonymous with force and aggression.


    As for sword immortals, they were deemed best at offense, being capable of using a single sword to destroy all Dharma. In terms of combat strength, it was on the same level as the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. However, Qin Yun had long grasped sword intent and had reached a heaven-defying realm of sword intent domain. He was naturally a lot stronger than Yi Xiao.


    Hong Lingtong, on the other hand, wasn''t the most skilled at head-on combat.


    "It''s trivial considering our friendship." Qin Yun did not mind at all. Back when Gongye Bing was targeting him, everyone around him was eager to shrink away from them. Yet, Hong Lingtong had helped him. Qin Yun naturally remembered this favor.


    "I actually have another matter," said Hong Lingtong.


    "Oh? You just broke through to the Connate realm but did not hold a banquet and instead, you came to me. It seems it''s something serious," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Hong Lingtong nodded solemnly. "That''s right. To be honest, I happened to chance upon a treasure."


    With that said, he flipped his hand and produced an incomplete-looking token.


    "Treasure?" Qin Yun looked at the token.


    "Brother Qin Yun, you can try sensing it," said Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    Qin Yun immediately sent a wisp of his psyche into the token. Upon sensing it, there was an obstreperous voice sounding from within the token. "With six tokens gathered, Scenic Yang''s Cave Abode can be opened."


    "What?" Qin Yun revealed a look of shock. "Perfected Scenic Yang?"


    Perfected Scenic Yang was a famous figure in the history of Jiang Prefecture''s best cultivation sect, Scenic Mountain Sect. Back then, Scenic Mountain Sect was considered a Daoist sacred land! To be deemed a sacred land, it naturally meant that it had produced a few impressive figures. One of them was Perfected Scenic Yang. He had once led the Scenic Mountain Sect with might that oppressed the Divine Firmament Chapter. Back in the day, the Divine Firmament Chapter was not even a Daoist sacred land. It only slowly became stronger generation after generation. It had uplifted itself in the later stages of its existence. Now, it was on equal footing as Numinous Treasure Mountain and Primordial Chaos Sect.


    Perfected Scenic Yang was a senior from three millennia ago. Back when Qin Yun was still weak, he believed that Perfected Scenic Yang was a powerful Connate Golden Core expert.


    But ever since he became an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador and was made aware of several secrets, he learned that Perfected Scenic Yang was an Essence Soul immortal! Furthermore, he was the leader of the Daoist movement of that generation.


    "Perfected Scenic Yang, Wei Hong." Hong Lingtong nodded. "Before he died, he divined that Scenic Mountain Sect would eventually suffer a calamity. Therefore, he thought of means to record many of the manuals of Scenic Mountain Sect. Although the more powerful the manual, the more envy it garners from the heavens, Perfected Scenic Yang''s means allowed him to record about sixty to seventy percent of the most important manuals that Scenic Mountain Sect had back then. Including the treasures he had, they were all hidden in his Scenic Yang Cave Abode.


    "Following that, he left the six tokens that could open the cave abode in Scenic Mountain Sect. Unfortunately, Scenic Mountain Sect was later overrun by fiendish demons. It lost a great deal of its strength and most of the six tokens were lost."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I know about that. The Scenic Mountain Sect has always been in search of the six tokens. However, I heard that some of the tokens are in the royal family''s hands. There are tokens in the hands of huge sects and family clans. They are all scattered everywhere. However, the Scenic Mountain Sect has already confirmed the locations of five of the tokens. Is yours the sixth?"


    "Yes, the sixth token!" Hong Lingtong said confidently. "As long I bring this over, all six will be gathered and the Immortal Cave Abode can be opened."


    Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong in surprise. "Brother Hong, providence has shined its light on you for you to obtain such a treasure. Even I''m envious of you."


    "The light that shines from providence is only external. What matters is a person''s strength," said Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    "By taking it out, aren''t you afraid I''d snatch it from you?" Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong.


    "Then, it can only be blamed on me for having a bad judge of character." Hong Lingtong was confident before he said, "Besides, I know that I wouldn''t get many treasures if I go alone. The Scenic Mountain Sect has also publicly professed¡­ that every token would allow entry to two cultivators. I wish to invite you to join me when the time comes."


    Qin Yun was astonished. "With me?"


    "The only one I trust and is sufficiently strong is you, Brother Qin Yun," said Hong Lingtong.


    "I remember that the Scenic Mountain Sect has said before that other than the manuals left in Scenic Yang Cave Abode, it will give up all rights to the other treasures, allowing them to be vied for by others." Qin Yun said, "And it is nearly certain that the Numinous treasure, the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet'' which Perfected Scenic Yang carried with him is also in Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    Any Numinous treasure placed in a Daoist sacred land could be used as a cornerstone treasure of the sect! For example, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was a cornerstone Numinous treasure!


    "Other than the manuals, many of the treasures will be up to us to vie for." Hong Lingtong said, "But I''m weak in strength and need a powerful expert to help me. When the time comes, there will be experts from the royal family and the large family clans entering. In order to prevent evil people from snatching the treasures, Perfected Scenic Yang had established several powerful array formations in his abode. And with the Scenic Mountain Sect having lost so much of its heritage, it is probably unable to crack many of the array formations."


    "The information given by the Scenic Mountain Sect is that the Scenic Yang Cave Abode forbids entry to Essence Soul immortals," Hong Lingtong said. "And if Connate Golden Core realm experts enter, they might lose their lives in the face of the array formations set up by Perfected Scenic Yang. And every Golden Core expert is extremely important to their sect and family clan. They are not to take risks easily. I believe that very few Golden Core experts will be entering. Most of them will be at the Connate True Core realm."


    "You and me, trying to vie with the royal family, the large sects and family clans?" Qin Yun said with amusement.


    "I don''t dare flaunt about anything else, but I''m most skilled at divining danger. I''m also adept at array formations." Hong Lingtong smiled. "By joining forces together, I believe we can take a few treasures out from Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Just a few of the treasures left behind by the mighty Perfected Scenic Yang is enough for us to make a great profit. As for whatever we obtain, we will split it equally," Hong Lingtong said. "I''m not trying to take advantage of you, Brother Qin Yun. You will understand once we enter."


    "The token is provided by you. By splitting it equally, I think I''m the one taking advantage of you." Qin Yun nodded. "Alright, I agree with your proposal."


    Qin Yun was truly confident.


    His present strength was already comparable to ordinary Connate Golden Core experts. Besides, by the time they entered, his strength would have improved again.


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong was overjoyed. "Now, with me holding onto the sixth token, it will be up to me to decide on the date of entry! I have just made a breakthrough so there''s no hurry in entering it. I need half a year''s time to consolidate everything. I will also cultivate in some Connate realm methods. Next summer, we will enter together."


    "Next summer it is." Qin Yun agreed on the date.


    Qin Yun had always been curious about the methods available to Essence Soul immortals. As for Perfected Scenic Yang being so famous, he was probably one of the best Essence Soul immortals. By visiting his cave abode, he could also gain an inkling of that.


    "Unfortunately, my Sword Immortal Legacy does not have Dharma cultivation formulations that lead to the Essence Soul immortal stage." Qin Yun shook his head silently. After becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, he knew that all the sword immortal legacies in the world, including the origins of the Daoist moment, Numinous Treasure Mountain, peaked at the Connate Golden Core realm!

 128 Young Master Qin Lends a Hand

    Chapter 128: Young Master Qin Lends a Hand


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In Grand Dominance''s Yangshe Province, a village was in a chaos.


    Avian demons swooped down, grabbing men and women, especially the beautiful women, and even some children.


    "Demons, stop!"


    "Kill them!"


    "Kill these demons!" The village watch looked on in anger as they aimed their crossbows.


    "Hahaha¡­" The avian demons flew down wantonly and easily killed the village watchmen. Some were even caught alive.


    Soon.


    The large group of avian demons flew off with some of the humans, leaving the villagers feeling devastated. Nearly a hundred villagers had died in the attack, and more than a hundred villagers had been abducted. People lost their friends and family!


    "My child! Child!"


    "Mother! Mother!"


    "Father!"


    There were sobs coming from every corner of the village.


    ¡­


    Early in the morning. Grand Dominance County Governor Manor.


    County Governor Song was holding a huge spear as he practiced his spear arts on the training grounds. It was the last month of the year and it was very cold. After some practice, County Governor Song''s body warmed up greatly.


    "Phew." He exhaled a breath of air that turned into a white mist.


    "This year is much colder than usual." County Governor Song placed his spear to the side, and was immediately handed a fox fur coat by a nearby servant. County Governor Song felt a lot warmer after putting it on.


    The commander standing beside him said with a smile, "Lord County Governor, it''s best you focus on cultivation. If your Qi Refinement realm attains a higher stage, you might even be able to endure a little cold."


    "Sigh, I really lack the talent. I''m helpless," said County Governor Song with a laugh.


    "Lord! Lord!" A guard dashed over from afar as County Governor Song turned around.


    The guard respectfully handed him an envelope. "A letter from Yangshe Province."


    "Oh?"


    County Governor Song took it calmly, but his expression changed when he opened it and read its contents.


    "What happened?" The commander walked over.


    "Old Ceng, take a look." County Governor Song handed the letter to the commander. After a careful read, the commander could not help but exclaim, "Ever since Water God was killed, Grand Dominance County no longer has any powerful great demons. Furthermore, the imperial government had sent manpower to kill the demons. Now, throughout all of Grand Dominance County¡­ the demons are all very careful. If they attack humans, they do so covertly and would never dare to do it so blatantly. From the looks of it, another new great demon has appeared in Grand Dominance."


    "Hmph!"


    County Governor Song grunted coldly. "This new great demon led a large group of demons, and most of them were avian demons! They wreaked havoc in Yangshe Province in such an unbridled fashion. Old Ceng, think of a way to send men to storm the area and vanquish that group of demons. My Grand Dominance County will not allow demons to establish themselves again!"


    "Lord County Governor," The commander shook his head and said. "It''s written in the letter that the new great demon can control the wind and fly. As long as it can fly, the troops we send will not even be able to touch it. Besides, great demons are not stupid. Since it dares to act so arrogantly, it probably has something backing it. Our only option is to implore truly powerful cultivators to deal with it."


    "Yes, he can fly." County Governor Song whispered, "Old Ceng, do you think I should report the matter to the higher-ups, or should I get Young Master Qin to lend a hand?"


    "Young Master Qin is an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. It is their job to slay fiendish demons," said the commander. "Besides, Young Master Qin reviles fiends. He killed the water ape great demon. He is also a citizen of our Grand Dominance. If we ask for his help, I believe he will take action."


    "Okay. This is the first time I''m seeking his help ever since I took this job." County Governor Song nodded. "Let''s go to Qin Manor."


    Soon.


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Liehu led County Governor Song and Commander Ceng to Qin Yun''s compound.


    "County Governor Song." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were playing chess before the county governor arrived. They immediately rose to greet him.


    "Young Master, Miss Yi," County Governor Song immediately bowed. "I''m here to seek Young Master Qin''s help."


    "There is no need for such formalities." Qin Yun immediately extended his hand and held County Governor Song up with Heaven and Earth powers, preventing him from kneeling. "County Governor, please speak your mind."


    County Governor Song sighed and said, "When I became county governor of Grand Dominance, I had a thought that my job should be rather relaxed and simple, considering how Water God had been recently killed. But it turns out that with Water God gone from Grand Dominance County¡­ a new great demon has appeared to take his place."


    "What? Another great demon has appeared?" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a cold glimmer. "Where? Which great demon?"


    "This great demon is currently wreaking havoc in the Yangshe Province of our Grand Dominance County," County Governor Song elaborated. "The great demon is adept at controlling the wind, allowing it to fly. It comes and goes without leaving a trace. As for what great demon it is, no one knows since it''s new. Perhaps, some demon leader has recently broken through to the Connate realm. At the moment, I have no means to deal with it. I can only implore Young Master Qin to lend a hand and save the local citizens from the misery."


    Qin Yun had grown up in a village from a young age, and so had witnessed his fair share of demons abducting villagers. The period when Water God wreaked havoc in Grand Dominance County was the darkest two centuries in Grand Dominance County''s history.


    "As an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, slaying fiendish demons is my responsibility," said Qin Yun. "County Governor Song, do you have more detailed information?"


    County Governor Song was delighted upon hearing that. "Young Master Qin, you are truly righteous. This is a letter sent from Yangshe Province. The information you seek is written in it."


    Qin Yun took the letter and gave it a look.


    "More than ten villages have been attacked? More than a thousand abducted and hundreds of villagers killed?" Qin Yun was acutely aware that there was little chance that those who had been abducted were still alive.


    "Leave this matter to me," Qin Yun said with a nod. "County Governor Song, rest assured."


    "Then, I shall thank Young Master Qin on behalf of the citizens of Yangshe Province," said County Governor Song immediately.


    "I shall not delay any further. I will set off now," said Qin Yun. "County Governor Song, sorry for not being able to entertain you. If I don¡¯t act now, more humans might suffer."


    "Definitely. Slaying the demons is of utmost importance," said County Governor Song immediately.


    "Qin Yun, I''ll accompany you," Yi Xiao instantly chimed in.


    "Okay. Let''s go." Immediately, a beautiful silver flying sword appeared beneath Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. They rapidly took off, tearing through the sky and leaving County Governor Song and company nodding slightly.


    County Governor Song, Commander Ceng, and Qin Liehu watched with their heads up.


    "Young Master Qin is truly righteous," complimented Commander Ceng.


    "Yea, he immediately went to slay the demon the moment he heard the news." County Governor Song looked at Qin Liehu wistfully. "Old Qin, with an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador watching over our Grand Dominance County, its citizens will enjoy a better life."


    Qin Liehu nodded slightly as well as he watched Qin Yun and Yi Xiao disappear into the horizon.


    Qin Liehu still remembered very clearly¡­


    The young Qin Yun had practiced diligently with his sword. At the age of fifteen, he insisted on roaming the world alone so as to knock open the gate of immortality.


    "In a blink of an eye, Yun''er is already able to protect the entire Grand Dominance County," Qin Liehu said to himself.


    ******


    Phew.


    As Qin Yun wanted to reach Yangshe Province as soon as possible, he traveled using Sword Kinesis Flight. As his cultivation realm kept increasing, his speed via Sword Kinesis Flight became even faster.


    "We have entered Yangshe Province."


    When they arrived in the first village they encountered in Yangshe Province, they scanned the area from above. Many of the villagers were dressed in white funeral garb. There was white paper money flying and many looking disconsolate. Qin Yun noticed at a glance that a woman was hugging a child''s cotton jacket while sobbing softly. It was as though she had fallen into a daze.


    Qin Yun looked down silently.


    "There are immortals!"


    "Immortals!" The villagers in the village saw Qin Yun and Yi Xiao standing on a gigantic flying sword high in the sky.


    "Immortals, save my wife."


    "Immortals, save my child."


    "Immortals¡­"


    Immediately, many villagers knelt down, kowtowing and wailing at floating Qin Yun and Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun watched and whispered, "If they are still alive, I''ll bring them back. Unfortunately¡­ many of them are probably¡­"


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun nodded at Yi Xiao and continued their flight.


    "Qin Yun, you are now an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors are meant to slay fiendish demons, and I believe the great demon that recently appeared in Grand Dominance County will know that as well. Yet, it wreaks havoc without restraint. Perhaps, it has something backing it. Maybe an extremely powerful life-preservation ability," said Yi Xiao.


    "We shall know when we see. Let''s see if the thing it''s relying on can match my flying sword!" said Qin Yun.


    "It wreaks havoc around Yangshe Province, and mainly in the south. That means that the demon''s lair must be in this region. Perhaps, it''s in the mountains or the lakes," suggested Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Since it''s their lair, there will definitely be many demons that have settled there. We should search the area carefully."


    Phew.


    Qin Yun''s ability to sense the area through the Heaven and Earth powers allowed him to cover the surrounding fifteen kilometers.


    In the enveloped region, the aura of living beings was concentrated in spots. Qin Yun would visit each area, finding more villages or even the remains of destroyed villages, where villagers were in pain from losing their loved ones. Qin Yun gradually turned silent.


    ¡­


    In the deep valley of a huge mountain, there were many demons lurking in an area where few humans tread.


    Cat Demon Queen was dressed in purple robes as she sat on a stone throne. Her fair legs were crossed as she leisurely looked into the sky as the demons around her waited upon her.


    "Third Sister, I sense two lifeforms rapidly heading for us. Their speed is extraordinarily fast so they have to be cultivators! It''s very likely Qin Yun." Flood Dragon King, who was hiding, sent a voice transmission.


    "Haha, it looks like our prey is here." Leopard Demon King joined in the voice transmission excitedly.


    The corners of Cat Demon Queen''s mouth curled up as she said with a voice transmission, "Brothers, don''t worry. Hold it in. Don''t scare away our prey. Once they are trapped, we can slaughter that Qin Yun."

 129 Calling for Help Would Be Useless Too

    Chapter 129: Calling for Help Would Be Useless Too


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Engaging in Sword Kinesis Flight, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao streaked across the sky as a beam of light and rapidly reached another area.


    "Oh?"


    When Qin Yun saw the distant mountain, he said immediately, "There are more than a thousand living beings gathered in the depths of the mountain. How could villages of that size hide deep in the mountains? It''s very likely that we have found the demons'' nest."


    "With so many demons gathered, they probably have a great demon leading them," said Yi Xiao immediately. "Qin Yun, for that great demon to dare run rampant in Grand Dominance, you have to be careful."


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun was emboldened by his talent and was filled with confidence.


    Phew.


    They rapidly flew to the tall mountain, where they overlooked the area beneath them and saw demons gathered in the valley. Now, with the aid of his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun could sense a region spanning three thousand feet. Immediately, he sensed that there was an array formation set up in the valley. Many places also insulated his psyche probes. Qin Yun did not think too much of it. After all, it was a place where a great demon had settled in. It would be strange if there were no array formations.


    "How is it?" asked Yi Xiao. "Are there any survivors?"


    "About two hundred people are alive." Qin Yun''s voice was cold. "They had abducted more than a thousand people. The rest are probably dead. There is a huge trench filled with bones by the side."


    Yi Xiao''s expression changed slightly as well.


    "Let''s go down." Qin Yun led Yi Xiao and flew down.


    "Cultivators are here!"


    "They are cultivators! Quick tell the Queen!"


    The demons around the valley were on the alert as well. These demons had seen a man and woman rapidly descend on a flying sword and were in a panic. After all, humans were not flying beasts¡­ Any cultivator that could fly would typically be in the Connate realm, entities the ordinary lesser demons were absolutely no match against.


    Phew.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao landed on a pile of rubble in the valley. They saw at a glance large numbers of people being held imprisoned in the distance. They also saw humans that had been tied up while the demons while grinding their knives to slaughter them. These humans were wallowing in despair but when they saw the man and woman descend from the heavens, they shouted excitedly, "Immortals, save us!"


    "Immortals, save us!" The people shouted with all their might as some of their voices were already hoarse.


    "Whew!"


    Qin Yun''s eyes suffused coldness. With a wave of his hand, a sword beam flashed.


    The flying sword was like an agile fish as it instantly circled the area and bored through the bodies of two hundred demons before returning to Qin Yun.


    The demons that were watching, tying or preparing to kill the humans were seized with horror. Following that, they collapsed to the ground and revealed their true forms. As for the humans that had been hung up, they fell to the ground when the ropes were slit. All of them quickly escaped from their bondage as they hurriedly ran to a wooden prison beside them. The locks on the prison cells had all been destroyed as well.


    And when the demons in the other parts of the valley saw this, they fled far away. It was too terrifying. In a blink of an eye, nearly two hundred demons were killed.


    "Your Majesty! Your Majesty! This cultivator is too powerful."


    "It should be the sword immortal, Qin Yun."


    The local Grand Dominance demons yelled.


    Phew.


    The flying sword flew back into Qin Yun''s sleeve.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "Hum!" The surrounding scenery changed as a layer of black energy enveloped the entire valley, isolating it from the external world.


    Instantly, be it Qin Yun''s ability to sense the Heaven and Earth powers or through the release of his psyche, he was unable to penetrate the obstruction created by the black energy.


    "What a powerful array formation." Qin Yun thought to himself.


    "Haha¡­"


    Accompanied by complacent laughter, three figures appeared in the valley. They were the purple-robed Cat Demon Queen, as well as the black-robed Leopard Demon King and Flood Dragon King. The three of them had revealed a portion of their demon characteristics. Cat Demon Queen had grown cat ears and she had whiskers on her face. Her eyes had green vertical pupils.


    Leopard Demon King and Flood Dragon King had also revealed some of their characteristic features. They were partially humanoid and were able to produce the powers of demons but had many of the advantages a human body had.


    In terms of combat¡­ most demons'' true forms were inferior to partial humanoid forms. Only dragons and a few races were able to exploit the greater advantages of their actual forms.


    "You three?" Qin Yun swept his gaze over them. "Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs?"


    "Qin Yun." Yi Xiao was alarmed as she immediately said with a voice transmission, "Two of Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs are nearly the level of an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. As for Flood Dragon King, his strength is approaching that of the Connate Golden Core realm. With the three of them joining forces, they are extremely terrifying. Besides, they have been slaughtering villages frequently in all the prefectures in the recent year. They are extremely cruel and the imperial government has put up a warrant for them. The Inspector Heavenly Alliance must also be trying to capture them. Should we inform the Inspector Heavenly Alliance first?"


    "Haha¡­Qin Yun, you were the one who chose to barge into hell. Don''t blame us when you die at our hands." Leopard Demon King held a black spear as he guffawed.


    Cat Demon Queen gently played with her fingers and said with a chuckle, "Outside the array formation, even the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror will not sense any fluctuations in here! Even voice transmission treasures are insulated. No one can save you."


    Flood Dragon King said with a majestic voice as he guffawed. "That''s why kid, don''t waste your strength. Calling for help would be useless."


    "Waste of strength? Call for help?"


    Qin Yun looked at the three confident demon monarchs in front of him. Why would he call for help? Because of the three of them?


    "The three of you would immediately flee after destroying a village. You were extremely careful, preventing the Inspector Heavenly Alliance from capturing you. But this time, you came to my Grand Dominance County and deliberately abducted some humans and even purposely gathered the demons here. This is nothing like your usual modus operandi," said Qin Yun. "You have also set up such a powerful array that insulates the area from voice transmission treasures and even the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror. It looks like you have deliberately lain here in ambush to deal with me."


    Being able to hide from the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was very rare.


    However, it was common among typical Connate Golden Core great demons. Their lairs were especially enshrouded by array formations permanently. As such, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was unable to monitor the ongoings in those great fiendish demons'' lairs.


    The three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain were extraordinary in strength. They similarly had such array formations which needed to be set up ahead of time.


    "It looks like you aren''t dumb." Leopard Demon King scoffed.


    "Who is behind this?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Brother and Sister, don''t bother talking to him. Attack. Let''s kill him together." Flood Dragon King was feeling impatient. He thought nothing of a newly-promoted Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. He waved his hand and a large azure-colored seal flew out from his hand. As it flew, it rapidly expanded in size to that of a tiny mountain!


    As for Cat Demon Queen, she instantly pounced on Qin Yun like an apparition. Leopard Demon King had also bravely charged forward with a spear in hand.


    Most fiendish demons had extremely strong physical bodies, making them skilled at close combat.


    On the other hand, humans were bad at close combat!


    "I was thinking of asking about the mastermind but since all of you have a death wish, I''ll fulfill it for you." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Shoo!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out once again.


    The shot this time was fiercer than ever. It brought with it rumbling thunder as the sword beam had the intense surging might akin to the Grand Dominance Tidal Current''s! When it struck, it would render the world asunder.


    "What?" Cat Demon Queen only felt that the sword beam was extremely terrifying. Instantly, it was in front of her. The overwhelming might made her realize that she was powerless against it. A rope flew out and coiled around her body as protection as she held a blood-colored curved blade to try her best at defending against the strike.


    Boom!


    The sword beam was immensely powerful and extremely fast. Her blade ended up blocking nothing for all she blocked was a phantom. Although the ropes coiled around her managed to block the flying sword, the flying sword''s might remained domineering as it pressed through the ropes and slashed through her body.


    Rip!


    Cat Demon Queen''s body tore apart immediately as the flying sword followed a curved trajectory and its mighty momentum reach its peak again. It flew straight at Leopard Demon King in return.


    "Rip!" Cat Demon Queen''s body reduced to smithereens after her body shattered. All that was left was fluttering fur.


    Thousands of feet away, in the periphery of the array formation that isolated the valley.


    A figure appeared out of thin air. It was none other than Cat Demon Queen. Two tails were flailing behind her buttocks.


    "I¡­ I was killed? I lost one life?" Cat Demon Queen looked at her tail. "Three hundred years of hard work gone in an instant?"


    She had undergone a long period of cultivation, attaining the ''Two Tail'' realm at the Connate realm. She only had her third tail when she reached the Connate True Core realm. As adding another tail was very difficult, it represented her life. This was a talent only cat demons had.


    ¡­


    At the moment when Cat Demon Queen lost one life, Leopard Demon King, who had charged ahead, abruptly retreated with a drastic change of expression when he saw the scene.


    "Third Sister was killed upon contact? Third Sister has three lives but I only have one." Leopard Demon King could not help but panic when he saw the horrifying flying sword streaking at him like a lightning bolt.


    "Brother, I''m here to save you." Flood Dragon King immediately controlled a large seal that was the size of a tiny mountain in a bid to protect Leopard Demon King.


    However, Qin Yun''s flying sword was too fast!


    Like a bolt of lightning, it rendered the world asunder!


    As the seal was flying over with all its might, the flying sword had already arrived in front of Leopard Demon King.

 130 Begging for Mercy

    Chapter 130: Begging for Mercy


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Leopard Demon King panicked greatly when he saw the flying sword coming at him like a surging tidal wave. "Isn''t this Qin Yun supposed to be at the Connate False Core realm? Why is he so powerful? How is he so powerful?"


    He was puzzled, stunned, and horrified.


    At that moment, Leopard Demon King immediately imbued all his strength into his spear as formless miasma mists burst out around him. When the flying sword came into contact with the mists, it experienced layer after layer of resistance that impeded its flight. This was Leopard Demon King''s most important Dharma treasure¡ªfifth-grade Dharma treasure, Wispy Thousand Miasma! Its wispy threads came together to form a blockade that was a much greater resistive force than it appeared to be.


    Phew! Phew! As for Leopard Demon King''s spear strikes, the Wispy Thousand Miasma did not hinder them in any way. Its defense appeared impregnable.


    "Bam!"


    The horrifying flying sword tore through the Wispy Thousand Miasma''s obstruction and clashed with Leopard Demon King''s spear. He put all of his might into his spear, trying his best to deflect the sword. However, the spear received a force so great that the pole flew back and struck his body, leaving a dent in him. A mouthful of blood spewed out as he could not help but fly back.


    "Boom!" The large seal finally arrived, colliding with the flying sword that had lost some of its momenta.


    When the two collided, the large seal shook violently in midair as the flying sword came to a halt.


    "I lived. I managed to survive." Leopard Demon King, whose body had crashed into boulders, was feeling both horrified and delighted. He frantically flew into the distance. "That Qin Yun is too terrifying. Even though I managed to barely fend off one strike, without the assistance of Brother and his Dharma treasure, I would definitely have died when the second and third strikes came for me."


    This feeling of being suppressed so much that it felt like the other party could easily take his life terrified Leopard Demon King.


    The last time he had such a feeling¡­ was when the Connate Golden Core realm expert appeared. Back then, his brother, Flood Dragon King, had blocked the strike meant for him and led their escape.


    "A Connate False Core realm sword immortal can match a Connate Golden Core realm expert?" Leopard Demon King was in disbelief.


    "Boom!"


    Above the valley.


    The seal that was as large as a mountain clashed with the flying sword. Under the powerful might of the flying sword that resembled a surging torrent, the seal was sent flying away, crashing into the valley''s cliffs. Countless rocks burst everywhere, scaring the demons that were hiding under the cliffs. They scampered around while trying to dodge falling boulders. Although they wanted to escape, the array formation had sealed the entire valley, preventing them from doing so.


    "How terrifying."


    "We have to escape. If not, the shockwaves from these terrifying bouts will be our doom."


    "How do we escape? There are all these black Dharmic powers surrounding us." The demons were standing at the boundary of the array formation as they touched the black energy that isolated them from the outside world. There was no way for them to escape.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun, don''t celebrate too soon." Flood Dragon King roared as the seal returned to him. He transformed into his true form, a massive black flood dragon. He was about three hundred feet long and his body spiraled in midair while emitting fiendish demonic gases. With sizzling sounds, the surrounding trees were corroded and quickly withered to their deaths. Some tree branches turned to powder directly. Even the vegetation that was strong enough to survive in winter rapidly withered and died.


    "No."


    The humans hiding in the wooden dungeons clustered together as they watched everything in horror, especially when they saw the black fiendish demonic gases emanate and cause the very vegetation to whither wherever it passed.


    "Oh?" When Qin Yun saw this, he whizzed in front of them with Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao used a Dharma treasure.


    Buzz.


    A gigantic protective barrier of light protected her and the people behind her.


    "Don''t worry. You will be fine." Yi Xiao smiled at them.


    When these people saw that the immortal couple was blocking all the darkness by standing in front of them, they could not help but feel at ease.


    Qin Yun looked at the distant black flood dragon. "From the looks of it, his fiendish body is very powerful. It''s much stronger than Gongye Bing."


    "He is a flood dragon after all," commented Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun, die!" The black flood dragon flew with his wound body and swept towards Qin Yun before striking out with his massive black claws. As a black flood dragon that was about three hundred feet long, a single claw was as large as the entire water ape great demon from before. The dragon''s talons were sharp and contained immense strength. He made them even more deadly by pushing his natural talents to the limit.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The sword art used by the Intrinsic Flying Sword changed.


    It went from the Misty Rain Sword Art''s Lightning Tide to Blood Runs Cold.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The silver flying sword instantly transformed into a blood-colored sword beam that even exuded an acute intent. The black flood dragon seemed to hear the slaying sounds of a battlefield and smelled blood. He could see blood drops spraying around the blood-colored sword beam. It was faster and more powerful. Although the raw strength from its purest form was gone, it was now like an assassin, a zealot who was willing to sacrifice himself to die with his enemy on the battlefield.


    "Block it." Flood Dragon King used both his claws and all of his strength to fend off the sword. His claws were huge and, rather miraculously, he succeeded in defending against Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    Boom!!!


    When the flying sword and the dragon claws clashed, Flood Dragon King found it extremely demanding on him. Even his dragon claws felt a faint hint of pain and numbness.


    "That''s bad. His flying sword is too fast and too mighty. I might fail to withstand it the next time." Flood Dragon King immediately came to a realization.


    "Pu!"


    Immediately following that, the dragon claw fell through empty space as the flying sword tore open a gaping wound in his abdomen. Drops of dragon blood dripped down, corroding the ground beneath due to the fiendish demonic aura that the blood effused. The ground sizzled as the blood sunk through and made large holes.


    "His body is quite strong to be able to withstand one of my strikes. But can your body last against ten or a hundred strikes?" Qin Yun''s eyes were cold.


    And far away, beside the boundary of the array formation, Cat Demon Queen and Leopard Demon King, who were ready to flee from the array formation, still felt a sense of anticipation, hoping to see how their brother would deal with Qin Yun!


    "Eldest Brother is from the dragon race. The fiendish body he has cultivated has reached an extremely high level. Yet, he can''t withstand the flying sword?" Leopard Demon King''s eyes widened.


    "Is this Qin Yun really only at the Connate False Core realm?" Cat Demon Queen was in greater disbelief. "Second Brother, Qin Yun shouldn''t be this strong even if he has grasped sword intent."


    ¡­


    When Yi Xiao, who was standing in front of the people, saw this scene, she turned to look at Qin Yun beside her and felt proud. She thought to herself, "How could you know that Qin Yun had grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm. The Connate False Core that he condensed has reached an apex. In terms of purity, his Dharmic powers are just as potent as many people at the Connate True Core realm. Compared to the Connate Golden Core realm, he is only one full realm apart from them. But in terms of concepts, he is a full realm above many at the Connate Golden Core realm. Even if a true Connate Golden Core expert were here, it is hard to tell who would win."


    In the sky.


    Flood Dragon King used all his strength, defending with his claws and tail. But with a boom, the flying sword struck him, sending the massive flood dragon''s body flying back. The flood dragon crashed into a cliff, staining it completely with blood.


    "Eldest Brother, this Qin Yun is too powerful. We are no match for him." Leopard Demon King sent an anxious voice transmission.


    "Eldest Brother, if we try to carry on this fight, one or two of us three will perish. Let''s admit defeat." Cat Demon Queen sent a voice transmission as well. Both of them were truly afraid!


    "Stop! Stop! Stop!!!"


    Flood Dragon King shouted suddenly as his voice reverberated through the valley.


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    The silver flying sword paused in midair.


    "What do you have to say?" Qin Yun looked at the hovering Flood Dragon King.


    The lesser demons that were hiding along the boundary of the array formation looked up at the massive black flood dragon.


    As Flood Dragon King descended, he transformed into a partial humanoid form and cupped his hands. "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, it was our fault for offending you. The three of us admit defeat!"


    "Yes, yes. We admit defeat." Leopard Demon King shouted from afar as well.


    "Sword Immortal Qin Yun, please be magnanimous and spare us." Cat Demon Queen yelled at the top of her voice.


    Instantly, the humans and lesser demons that were watching this scene turned agape.


    "They are actually begging for mercy?" Even Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "The three of us no longer wish to continue this fight." Flood Dragon King said immediately, "We admit defeat and are willing to compensate you. May fellow Daoist Qin Yun be tolerant and generous enough to let us off."


    "We are willing to compensate you!" Cat Demon Queen and Leopard Demon King echoed immediately.


    The three demon monarchs lowered their stances greatly.


    "Begging for mercy? You are begging for mercy?" asked Qin Yun.


    Flood Dragon King felt a little embarrassed as he said with a chuckle, "If we really go for broke, one or two of us might die here, but the villagers around here might also die from the resulting shockwaves. It might even be possible that the beauty beside fellow Daoist Qin Yun would be harmed as well. That wouldn''t be nice, would it?"


    Flood Dragon King words were veiled threats.


    He was hinting to Qin Yun that if they truly went for broke, they would still be able to hurt the surrounding people even if they couldn''t kill him.


    "We are willing to compensate you. Can you let us off?" Flood Dragon King said with a smile.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, please spare us." Leopard Demon King said immediately. Cat Demon Queen was also looking pleadingly at Qin Yun.


    The three demon monarchs begged sycophantically.


    "You want me to spare you? Then who is to spare the countless villagers that were slaughtered by you?" Qin Yun looked at the trio. "Back when they were crying and begging for mercy, did you ever show mercy?"


    "No. Hear this¡­ the three of you shall all die today! Not one of you will escape!" Qin Yun''s cold voice echoed throughout the valley.

 131 Flood Dragon King, How Ruthless You Are

    Chapter 131: Flood Dragon King, How Ruthless You Are


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s words brimmed with killing intent, and they were like a basin of cold water being thrown at the three demon monarchs'' hearts, leaving them chilled to their cores.


    Flood Dragon King might have escaped from the hands of a Connate Golden Core expert in the past, but that was because his opponent was not particularly quick. If they had been fast and continued the pursuit, then Flood Dragon King and company would have eventually died! As for Qin Yun? Ignoring the fact that sword immortals'' Sword Kinesis Flight was famous for its speed, just a flying sword alone could pursue an enemy for fifteen kilometers.


    Flood Dragon King and company were cognizant of the fact that they were unable to get more than fifteen kilometers away.


    Besides, Qin Yun would definitely be chasing after them!


    "Do you really want to fight it out, leading the to internecine outcome of both fish dead and nets torn?" Flood Dragon King roared as his voice boomed. Cat Demon Queen and Leopard Demon King''s eyes were frenzied as well.


    "Leaving both fish dead and nets torn? Do you think three fishes like yourself can tear my nets?" Qin Yun scanned them with a glance.


    Flood Dragon King clenched his teeth. He sent out a hasty voice transmission to the other two.


    "Brother, Sister. This sword immortal''s flying sword is extremely fast. He can probably control the sword for several kilometers. The chances of us being able to escape are minute. We can only give it our all and try our luck! Sword immortals are weak at close combat. In this hopeless situation, let¡¯s at least struggle for survival. As long as we can get close to him, we will have a chance of killing him."


    "We''ll fight it out with him! If we have to die, let¡¯s at least try to take him with us!" Leopard Demon King replied with a voice transmission.


    "The only way is to do our best to get a chance at survival." Cat Demon Queen also understood. Although she had two lives, it was only enough to let Qin Yun¡¯s flying sword bore through her a few times.


    As they transmitted their voices, Flood Dragon King, Cat Demon Queen, and Leopard Demon King''s bodies suffused a dark greenish halo amid booms. Countless runes appeared between the three of them, forming a gigantic array formation. As the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain, they also had a formation that allowed for joint assaults! However, Flood Dragon King was a lot stronger than the other two. As a result, the formation did not increase Flood Dragon King''s strength much. There was no need for them to use such a formation except for a desperate final assault.


    "One strong and two weak? Yet, you are trying to use a formation to conduct a joint attack?" Qin Yun shook his head gently. "The weakness is too obvious."


    "Kill!"


    Flood Dragon King and company transformed into phantom images as they hurtled forward from three different directions in a joint assault.


    "Only through close combat will there be a chance to kill him!" Flood Dragon King was nearing a deranged state. While flying, his body had transformed into a black flood dragon. Leopard Demon King charged bravely with his spear in hand, while Cat Demon Queen brandished her blood-colored curved blade to do her utmost while being augmented by the formation''s might.


    "They want to use their use their advantage in numbers and fight you in close quarters." Yi Xiao stood by the side and readied a Dao talisman in her hand. She was prepared to act at any time.


    "Advantage in numbers? Although I''m alone, I have many flying swords!" Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    The purple and black flying swords hurled straight for Cat Demon Queen and Flood Dragon King! The two eighth-grade flying swords were not Intrinsic Flying Swords. While using them, Qin Yun could only produce about forty percent of his usual strength. However, just forty percent alone allowed the black flying sword to hold Flood Dragon King back. After all, the formation only gave him a minuscule increase in strength.


    The other purple flying sword repressed Cat Demon Queen completely. She struggled to fend against it.


    "My strength has been greatly enhanced by the formation but I still can''t withstand it." Cat Demon Queen panicked.


    "Darn it. I can''t shirk this flying sword off." Flood Dragon King was anxious and furious. The black flying sword enacted an impregnable defense. Flood Dragon King was unable to gain any ground, much less get close to Qin Yun!


    "Brother, Sister, help me!" Leopard Demon King was feeling the most horrified because Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was heading straight for him!


    "Your strength is more limited than Cat Demon Queen and you only have one life. So I''ll take care of you first." Qin Yun had already made his plans. "Although a formation can increase one''s strength, how strong can you get considering your own body''s foundations?"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword surged over like a tumultuous tidal current. Or perhaps it was more like bolts of lightning that struck down incessantly. Thankfully, Leopard Demon King still had his Dharma treasure, Wispy Thousand Miasma, protecting him. He used all his strength with his spear again to continue blocking several strikes.


    "I can''t hold out any longer. Brother, Sister, I can''t hold on any longer!" Leopard Demon King desperately withstood the attacks. He didn''t even dare to attempt an escape. If he did, a flaw in his defense would be exposed. The flying sword would likely penetrate his body.


    "Brother, I''ll save you!" Flood Dragon King intended to charge to him, but the black flying sword obstructed him completely. He waved his hand, hurling the seal out but, with a loud clang, the seal was intercepted by the black flying sword.


    Attempting to break through Qin Yun''s intercepting defense proved too difficult.


    "No! No! No!" Leopard Demon King revealed a look of despair.


    The rift between them was just too huge!


    Boom!


    With Qin Yun''s angry blow, not only did the flying sword possess terrifying might, the surging tidal wave made it difficult to discern the flying sword''s true body. After the eighth attack, a chink in Leopard Demon King''s defense finally appeared. He failed to deflect the force properly! But due to the great difference in strength, this tiny chink allowed the whistling flying sword to bore through his body. It cleaved off an arm and gashed a huge wound into his body.


    "Spare me! I''m willing to submit. I''ll listen to your every order." Leopard Demon King pleaded urgently with a voice transmission. At the same time, he sent a voice transmission to his siblings.


    Cat Demon Queen also said with a clear and eager voice transmission, "We are willing to submit. Spare us!"


    "Swoosh."


    But the flying sword curved around and continued its assault. The heavily injured Leopard Demon King finally failed to keep up. With a boom, his chest was penetrated as his heart was impaled.


    The spear that Leopard Demon King was brandishing came to a halt as well. He looked at the distant Qin Yun in a daze and then at Flood Dragon King, who was fighting the black flying sword with all his might. Next, he saw Cat Demon Queen, who was similarly in a dire predicament. "I''m¡­ I''m dying¡­"


    He once stood aloof over the woods.


    He once dominated many lesser demons before becoming sworn siblings with Cat Demon Queen and Flood Dragon King.


    They feasted on humans and led unbridled and joyous lives.


    "Phew." His body plummeted as he began to return to his true form. It was a gigantic black panther.


    Leopard Demon King of Evil Dragon Mountain, was dead!


    "Brother¡­" Cat Demon Queen felt heart-stricken as she could not help but say, "Qin Yun, we are willing to submit. Why are you so bent on destroying us?"


    "Brother!" Flood Dragon King was crushed. Leopard Demon King''s death made him feel that death was coming for him next.


    Qin Yun said coldly, "Submit? Death even upon submission!"


    "Qin Yun would not dare to collude with demons like you." Yi Xiao sneered by the side as she said, "Even if you did obediently submit now, there might come a time when you suddenly backstab Qin Yun."


    "Leopard Demon King is already dead. It''s your turn now." Qin Yun bellowed. With a thought, his Intrinsic Flying Sword whizzed straight at Cat Demon Queen.


    "No!" Cat Demon Queen panicked.


    Pu!


    In Cat Demon Queen''s panic, she forgot that the formation had been broken upon Leopard Demon King¡¯s death. The purple flying sword that had been completely repressing her swiftly penetrated her skull.


    Phew.


    Cat Demon Queen''s corpse instantly reduced to countless fur that scattered in the wind.


    Her body appeared beside the distant Flood Dragon King. At that moment, she only had one tail left.


    "Brother, we can''t survive against him. Let''s escape, escape with all we got," said Cat Demon Queen with a voice transmission.


    "Swoosh."


    The black flood dragon''s massive body transformed into a partially humanoid form and stood beside her.


    "Sister, we won''t be able to escape." Flood Dragon King looked at Cat Demon Queen. "His flying sword is too fast."


    "Then, let''s offer a sacrifice and summon the fiendcelestial," said Cat Demon Queen. "Let''s make it our final stand."


    "Pu!"


    However, Flood Dragon King''s claw pierced through Cat Demon Queen''s chest. Her heart literally shattered.


    Cat Demon Queen¡¯s eyes widened as she looked down at her penetrated chest before looking back up at the Flood Dragon King in front of her. She said in disbelief, "Brother, you¡­"


    "The amount of flesh and blood that has been offered to the fiendcelestial has just crossed the halfway mark. If you join in the summoning, the fiendcelestial will bestow powers to the both of us. Now, I will be the only one bestowed by the fiendcelestial since the both of you are dead," Flood Dragon King said with a gentle voice transmission. "If the bestowed power is divided, we might not be able to live. As the only recipient, my strength will be greatly enhanced. That way, I can avenge you and Brother. That way, the both of you won''t die in vain."


    Cat Demon Queen''s eyes looked deranged as she glared at Flood Dragon King. "Flood Dragon King, how ruthless you are. You are really ruthless. Second Brother and I will be waiting for you to join us in death."


    "You won''t." Just as Flood Dragon King''s words faded, Cat Demon Queen''s body transformed into her true form. She was a large cat.


    "You were always of some use. But now, with your deaths, you will provide me with the greatest help." Flood Dragon King wrung his claw and threw Cat Demon Queen''s corpse aside.


    Flood Dragon King turned to look into the distance.


    The distant Qin Yun and Yi Xiao witnessed this. The silver flying sword in midair also came to a halt. It was in no hurry to launch further attacks.


    "Fratricide?" Qin Yun said. "Don''t your ties run deep? Aren''t you great siblings?"


    "Haha¡­ Demons have always abided by the law of the jungle." Flood Dragon King scoffed. "If killing me allowed them to live, do you believe that the both of them would hesitate to kill me?"


    Hua!


    Just as his voice faded, a huge rift opened up in the void behind him. It revealed a humongous figure''s head that appeared far away! This unknown biological creature was massive in size. Through the spatial rift, one could only see the figure''s head. A pair of ruby-red eyes were watching the area filled with cruelty and killing intent as though it was watching a bunch of ants.


    Flood Dragon King took out a Fiendcelestial figurine that emitted a red glow. However, in the spatial rift behind, the terrifying head''s ruby-red eyes were glowing out-of-phase with it.


    "Hum!" The gigantic head in the spatial rift emitted tumultuous power that landed on Flood Dragon King.


    "Other Realm Fiendcelestial!" Yi Xiao was alarmed.


    "So it''s true that they massacred villages in order to offer sacrifices to a fiendcelestial." Qin Yun suddenly took the situation a lot more seriously.

 132 I have a Strike

    Chapter 132: I have a Strike


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The purple flying sword that was sheathed in a scabbard hanging at his waist instantly shot out like a purple stream of light. However, Flood Dragon King was surrounded by a rich Fiendcelestial aura through which the flying sword could not penetrate.


    "The rumors are true." Qin Yun retracted his eighth-grade purple flying sword. "The powers bestowed by Other Realm Fiendcelestials are unassailable unless one has strength at the level of Essence Soul immortals."


    "I heard that the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons gained their heritage from Other Realm Fiendcelestials," added Yi Xiao. "Every Other Realm Fiendcelestial is mysterious and unfathomable. I never expected I¡¯d have the opportunity to see one. Even just vaguely being able to see that massive head makes me feel¡­ like if this Other Realm Fiendcelestial chose to descend upon this world, he could probably destroy us in one strike."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. "However, there''s no need for worry. Only by creating a passage through the powers of sacrificed human flesh and blood will the Other Realm Fiendcelestial be able to bestow its power. If the amount of sacrifice is sufficiently high, it can bestow two treasures."


    "By the way, Yi Xiao, come to my side in a while." Qin Yun alerted her.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    Qin Yun watched from afar as Flood Dragon King was infused with power. "I don''t believe that he can go from the Connate True Core realm into the Connate Golden Core realm in one fell swoop! So even if he breaks through, I''m not afraid of a newly-enhanced Flood Dragon King."


    Despite saying so, he knew in his heart that he had to proceed carefully.


    This time¡­


    He had been commissioned by County Governor Song to slay great demons! Qin Yun had not thought much of it. Even though he discovered that the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain had laid an ambush for him, and he suspected that the Zhongli family was behind the matter, he was unperturbed. Wasn''t it just three Connate True Core realm demon monarchs? So what if one of them was a flood dragon? Qin Yun even wanted to use the three of them as fodder to hone his flying sword.


    After all, an opponent at such a level that would engage in a desperate fight was a rare practice partner.


    His newly created sword art of Lightning Tide had been tested properly, even though it was done casually during the temporary clash. It had still managed to kill two of the demon monarchs. Now, only Flood Dragon King remained, and he began consecrating the Fiendcelestial! Against a legendary Other Realm Fiendcelestial, Qin Yun did not dare hold back even if it was only bestowing a tiny amount of its power.


    ¡­


    On the other side.


    Flood Dragon King offered the powers of flesh and blood he had accumulated into the fiendcelestial figurine at once. A passage was opened up as he made contact with a distant Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    "Oh, great Fiendcelestial!" Flood Dragon King transmitted his voice through the figurine. "Please give unto me your power."


    "I have three servants who offer me flesh and blood for my power. Where are the other two?" From afar, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s voice came. It was transmitted into Flood Dragon King''s mind through the powers that befell him.


    "My brother and sister are dead!" Flood Dragon King said hurriedly, "It''s all because of the human sword immortal, Qin Yun."


    "It''s true that I cannot sense the other two servants'' aura. Tell me, what do you want? The more you sacrifice, the more you will obtain from me," asked the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    "I want to enhance my strength. I want my ''Fiendish Mahesvara'' cultivation to reach the tenth level so that I can kill that human sword immortal," pleaded Flood Dragon King through a voice transmission.


    "Reach the tenth level? The amount of sacrifice you have is still insufficient," replied the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    Flood Dragon King felt heart-stricken.


    It was indeed as expected.


    The powers given in exchange for sacrificed flesh and blood were separated into several realms. The amount the three demon monarchs had gathered was barely in the range of the second to the third level. It was stuck in the middle of the two levels, and it was actually quite a waste. But there was no other way around it. Under pressure from Qin Yun, he would definitely die without using the sacrifice; therefore, he could only try his best.


    "That is true. However, Great Fiendcelestial, perhaps you can bestow me with a method that will allow me to deal with the human sword immortal in front of me," said Flood Dragon King with a voice transmission. "This human sword immortal''s strength can nearly rival the Connate Golden Core realm."


    "I shall bestow you with vibrant powers. It is something you can use even at your level. It will increase your strength greatly, but once it''s depleted, your strength will return to normal. This is the fastest way to increase your strength in a short amount of time. Do you accept it?" asked the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    "I accept it! I accept it!"


    Flood Dragon King didn¡¯t have time to ask for anything else.


    Although it was somewhat a waste of the flesh and blood offerings, all that mattered was that his strength would increase, allowing him to save himself. As for the flesh and blood sacrifices? He could slowly gather more in the future.


    "Alright, as you wish." The Other Realm Fiendcelestial immediately bestowed a special power. It was a drop of green liquid that was filled with an endless vibrancy, and it was directly transmitted into Flood Dragon King''s body.


    "Weng!"


    When the green droplet seeped into his body, Flood Dragon King felt his flesh absorb the green liquid immediately in a frenzied manner. Every part of his body underwent a transformation as his body began to expand. His partial humanoid form grew to about sixty-feet tall. A layer of black scaled armor that was marked with dark green patterns appeared over his body.


    Flood Dragon King only felt that his body structure was undergoing change as his strength surged, allowing him to reach a whole new level that made him much more powerful than before.


    "The Connate Golden Core realm is probably this." Flood Dragon King sensed that the drop of green liquid in his body had shrunk greatly. As he stayed in this transformed state, the green droplet continued shrinking at an extremely slow rate. Flood Dragon King surmised that once it was completely drained, his strength would go back to what it was prior.


    "My servant, I wish that you will sacrifice more flesh and blood the next time. The more you sacrifice, the more you will receive." The Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s voice resounded in Flood Dragon King''s mind. Following that, the immense power rapidly receded.


    The rift in the void also closed up.


    Flood Dragon King put away the Fiendcelestial figurine. When he sensed the immense power in him, he immediately let out a rapturous laugh.


    "Hahaha¡­ Hahaha¡­" Unbridled laughter echoed everywhere as though tidal waves were sweeping across every spot.


    Using a protective Dharma treasure, Yi Xiao protected her surroundings, including the group of humans behind her.


    However, the lesser demons bore the brunt of the sound waves. They clenched their heads in pain.


    "Stop shouting!"


    "Your Majesty, stop shouting."


    "Your Draconic Majesty!" The lesser demons cried out in pain.


    Flood Dragon King stopped and looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, we were willing to give you gifts. Wouldn''t it be good if you had agreed to that? Instead, you have forced my siblings'' death and drove me to sacrifice the flesh and blood powers that I had prepared for so long. Now it will all amount to your death. Haven¡¯t you made quite the mistake?"


    "Flood Dragon King, your sister died by your own hand," said Qin Yun.


    "It was because you forced me!" said Flood Dragon King angrily. "Now, I''ll have you accompany my siblings in death!"


    Boom!


    Flood Dragon King transformed into a beam of light that shot straight at Qin Yun with astounding speed.


    "Go." The Intrinsic Flying Sword hovering in front of him instantly transformed into a fierce tidal wave that surged over like a lightning storm. As for Flood Dragon King, it was beneath him to dodge. He waved his claws and swiped down directly.


    "Bam!"


    The sharp claws clashed with the flying sword for an instant.


    A terrifying shockwave blasted out in every direction, shattering the surrounding boulders. When the remnant waves reached some of the lesser demons a distance away, they were immediately pulverized.


    The flying sword was sent backward from the strike, but Flood Dragon King''s body only jolted to a halt. He revealed a smile and guffawed, "Haha, your flying sword can''t do a thing to me."


    "Flood Dragon King, I have one strike that I have not used against an enemy ever since I comprehended it. Today, I''ll let you have a taste of it," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    His voice was still reverberating throughout the valley.


    Hua!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword instantly tore through the sky. At that moment, everyone who saw that strike, be it human or demon, felt as though the sword was a moon that rose after breaking through substantial river waters.


    It was too fast, so fast that it was like a dazzling beam.


    It was also very beautiful, as beautiful as the bright moon.


    A bright moon rose above the river.


    A distance of more than a thousand feet was instantly traversed.


    "No, begone!" Upon sensing the threat, Flood Dragon King waved his claws but the obstreperous and beautiful strike seemed like a sword art of heavenly immortals. It broke through his claws'' defense and stabbed into his chest despite him using all his strength.


    Boom!


    Flood Dragon King flew backward quite a distance in midair before grinding to a halt on the ground after several steps. The black armor that had formed on his body had a huge laceration on the chest. Large amounts of blood were spewing out of the wound.


    Flood Dragon King looked at his chest before looking up at the distant Qin Yun. He said confounded, "What is the name of this sword art?"


    "Bright Moon Over River!" Qin Yun nodded. "You are the first one to die by this sword art of mine."


    "Your strength is absolutely at the Connate Golden Core realm. However, you can''t kill me!" Flood Dragon King suddenly turned to flee.


    "You won''t escape," said Qin Yun.


    Sou!


    It seemed like a river''s waters were surging in the sky as a bright moon rose above those waters. Another strike hit Flood Dragon King, sending the escaping demon flying backward once again.


    Bright Moon Over River represented the apex of Qin Yun''s present sword moves.


    This strike was extremely fast and just the production of a sword beam could easily allow it to traverse tens of kilometers!


    Although it was fast, it wasn''t ferocious. Instead, it was beautiful.


    It was so beautiful that it did not seem like an attack from the mortal world.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The moonlight streams struck Flood Dragon King, preventing him from escaping at all.


    "No!"


    Flood Dragon King was truly horrified. He felt that the sword flashes endlessly inundated him. Although they were very beautiful, they were also very fast. He could not dodge them no matter how hard he tried! Even though his body was many times stronger than before, his injuries only worsened.


    "How is this flying sword art so terrifying? How is it so fast?"

 133 Stop!

    Chapter 133: Stop!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Flood Dragon King''s body was extremely tough. If it were any other Connate Golden Core realm opponent, he might have been able to fight them easily. However, sword immortals were known to be best when it came to attacking with their flying sword arts. They were also extremely fast. Just flying alone was inadequate for him to escape, so the only thing he could do was face Qin Yun head-on. If he could not fend against the flying sword, he would be at risk of perishing¡­ If Qin Yun had just broken through to the second realm of sword intent recently or had just comprehended Lightning Tide, he would not have been capable of killing Flood Dragon King in his present state.


    However, that was all a what if. His Intrinsic Flying Sword had reached the fifth-grade, allowing him to produce strength at the third-grade.


    Most importantly, Qin Yun had created the pinnacle sword move from his Misty Rain Sword Art¡ªBright Moon Over River!


    When sword immortals attained sword intent, they would work hard at creating sword formulations that best suited them. The more perfect the sword formulation, the better the delivery of the sword intent''s power. And the move, Bright Moon Over River, was infused with Misty Rain Sword Intent and Qin Yun¡¯s own emotions. It was a pinnacle sword move that truly contained rich emotions.


    This move''s speed far exceeded any of Qin Yun¡¯s previous sword moves, but it did not possess any mist or flames.


    When the sword move reached a certain state of perfection, it created a picturesque scene that stirred the heart with its beauty.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Like a bright moon, the sword flash broke through Flood Dragon King¡¯s defenses time after time. It lacerated his body as the gashes on his armor expanded. His flesh and bones that rivaled Dharma treasures were cracking. Flood Dragon King felt despair. "I have already sacrificed all of my flesh and blood powers to the Fiendcelestial and gained a huge increase in strength, but I''m still not his match? How is he this strong? It feels like he''s on the same level as a true Connate Golden Core sword immortal. But he''s only at the Connate False Core."


    Sword immortals were capable of wielding a single sword to destroy all Dharma. They were best at offense.


    Connate Golden Core sword immortals¡­ had quite a reverential strength among Connate Golden Core experts. They left the hearts of fiendish demons trembling. After all, the particular skills of a given Connate Golden Core expert were varied. Those from the Godfiend lineage would have robust bodies at the Connate Golden Core realm. They were terrifying in close combat and could even master divine powers. But if one was fast enough to escape¡­ they would be safe. But how many fiendish demons could claim that they were able to successfully flee from a Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal''s flying sword?


    Connate Golden Core experts that were well-versed with talisman arts were limited by the usage radius of their talismans.


    But what about flying swords?


    Connate Golden Core realm sword immortals could easily send their flying swords out a distance of fifty kilometers! Legends speak of some that could even reach five hundred kilometers! How terrifying would it be if a flying sword pursued you for five hundred kilometers?


    Another scary aspect was that Qin Yun was still very young. Although his soul was constantly strengthening because of his extremely high realm, it was akin to human growth. The strengthening of the soul needed time. Currently, his flying sword could fly out fifteen kilometers! In a few more years, it would be easy for him to release his flying sword to a distance of fifty kilometers to slay his enemies. Even if he was limited by his young soul and the flying sword¡¯s range, its strength was in no way inferior to true Connate Golden Core realm sword immortals.


    "Phew." The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew back into Qin Yun''s sleeve.


    In midair, Flood Dragon King glared intently at the distant Qin Yun. There were grotesque wounds streaking across his body and his heart had finally been penetrated! Qin Yun had struck him dozens of times before succeeding at breaking through the numerous protections his body provided him, stabbing right through the heart that was securely protected. The heart was the vital spot of nearly every fiendish demon.


    "You have attained intent domain, right?" Flood Dragon King looked at Qin Yun. "I never expected that you, who is at the Connate False Core realm, grasped a realm that most Connate Golden Core realm experts can''t reach. Impressive. Truly impressive."


    His voice reverberated but Qin Yun controlled the Heaven and Earth powers to isolate his voice, preventing the lesser demons and humans from hearing him.


    And after Flood Dragon King finished his statement, the glow in his eyes dimmed.


    The massive figure plummeted from midair in a listless manner. As he plummeted, his body underwent rapid changes. The sorry armor that had dark green patterns crumbled directly as a green aura dispersed and diffused back into the world. Since he was dead, the powers bestowed upon him by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial naturally dissipated. His body returned to its true form¡ªa black flood dragon! Finally, his corpse crashed to the bottom of the valley with a loud boom.


    Qin Yun turned to look at the lesser demons far away.


    The few lesser demons that survived the effects of the battle immediately knelt down and begged for mercy. "Immortal, spare us! Please spare us!"


    Some of the lesser demons immediately began their escape. Some spread their feathery wings and took to the sky while others burrowed into the ground! With the death of Flood Dragon King, the operation of the array formation surrounding the area came to a halt. They were no longer isolated from the outside world.


    "Do you think you will live after killing and eating humans?" Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Three sword beams flew out, each fully expressing strength at the Connate True Core realm. They went one round and, be it those kneeling on the ground begging for mercy, those flying in the sky, or burrowing in the ground, they were all penetrated by the sword beams! In a blink of an eye, the demons died one after another. They widened their eyes upon death. Some were indignant, others cursing furiously but every one eventually returned to their true forms.


    "Well killed!"


    "Well killed!"


    "Kill!" The villagers that were being protected behind shouted. Many of them had tears streaming down their cheeks.


    Qin Yun waved his hand again.


    The sword beams circled in the valley. The treasures left behind by the Flood Dragon King, Leopard Demon King, and Cat Demon Queen''s corpses were carried towards Qin Yun. Even the array formation that was set up was carefully extracted by Qin Yun. After all, the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain were infamous. They must have spent quite a substantial amount to obtain an array formation that could insulate them from the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror''s probes.


    Qin Yun was planning to set it up in Qin Manor. After all, he did not want the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror to detect him when he was practicing his flying sword arts.


    Who didn''t want to have their own tiny secrets?


    "So much treasure," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Treasures found after spending years hunting around the world can''t beat the treasures obtained from slaying fiendish demons."


    "But to slay fiends, you must ensure that you are stronger than the fiend you mean to slay," said Qin Yun.


    As he spoke, he took out a Cosmic Bag. The treasures flew over and entered his Cosmic Bag before he hung it by his waist.


    Qin Yun picked up one of the items that flew to his side.


    It was a Fiendcelestial figurine.


    At that moment, the Fiendcelestial figurine''s eyes glowed red as it emitted a voice. "My servant, the more you sacrifice, the more you will obtain! Even if you want to reach the Connate Golden Core, or become an Essence Soul immortal¡­ as long as your sacrifice is sufficient, I can satisfy your every whim. I¡ª"


    Before it finished its statement, Qin Yun tightly squeezed the figurine.


    Ka Ka Ka!


    The Fiendcelestial figurine began to crack.


    "Stop! Stop!" The Fiendcelestial figurine emitted a voice. "Don''t you want Dharma treasures? Third-grade, second-grade, first-grade, transcendent-grade Dharma treasures, and even Numinous treasures! I can grant you all of that."


    "Oh? Then give it to me. Give me a first-grade Dharma treasure, then I won''t destroy this figurine," Qin Yun said deliberately.


    "You need to sacrifice enough¡ª Wait! Stop!" The Fiendcelestial figurine bellowed.


    As Qin Yun continued squeezing it, the number of cracks in the figurine increased.


    "I don''t have anything to sacrifice to you," Qin Yun was still continuing.


    "Don''t you want to have everlasting youth? As a sword immortal, don''t you want Dharma formulations for becoming an Essence Soul immortal?" said the Fiendcelestial figurine immediately. "I can satisfy your every wish."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    In this world, sword immortals reached their apex at the Connate Golden Core. There were no Dharma formulations to cultivate beyond that.


    "There are no Dharma formulations for that in the entire world, but you can give it to me?" Qin Yun sneered. "Numinous Treasure Mountain, Divine Firmament Chapter, Primordial Chaos Sect, the three Daoist sacred lands! And all the senior experts in history, immortals in every generation have yet to find Dharma formulations that allow sword immortals to enter the Essence Soul realm. And you are saying you can give it to me? Who are you trying to fool?"


    "You must believe me. If you believe me, you can get anything¡ª Stop!"


    "Pa!"


    Qin Yun completely shattered the Fiendcelestial figurine. The figurine shattered into seven or eight pieces as the red glow from its eyes dissipated. The special energy entrenched in it also disappeared.


    "Believe you? Flood Dragon King believed you, and look how he turned out. Besides, I''m human. You want me to believe an Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun looked at the cracked figurine in his hand. To be honest, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s claims were enticing, but Qin Yun knew better. Despite the changes of times, there had been numerous legends but no actual Dharma formulations that allowed sword immortals to enter the Essence Soul realm. Why should he believe he could obtain them from an Other Realm Fiendcelestial?


    Even if there was a sliver of chance to obtain them, he would probably degenerate into a fiendish demon as a result.


    "Qin Yun, every one of these Fiendcelestial figurines are extremely precious to fiendish demons. It is a treasure that allows them to communicate with an Other Realm Fiendcelestial. Destroying one itself is a meritorious deed," said Yi Xiao.


    "Yes. Destroying this Fiendcelestial figurine and killing the three demon monarchs that have a warrant on them are both meritorious deeds," agreed Qin Yun. "I''ll inform the Inspector Heavenly Alliance now."


    "The Inspector Heavenly Alliance will detect your strength. The Zhongli family will also learn about your strength," said Yi Xiao worriedly.


    "Don''t you worry," Qin Yun said. "Those villagers could not make out the battle at all. The wounds that Leopard Demon King and Cat Demon Queen''s corpses have are rather ordinary. As for Flood Dragon King? He eventually returned to his true form¡­ and it can''t be discerned that his strength had once surged! Killing a Flood Dragon King might surprise the Zhongli family, but they will only be able to figure out a portion of my strength."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    After Flood Dragon King''s sacrifice, his strength had increased tremendously; yet, Qin Yun managed to slay him! If this scene was seen by the Zhongli family, they would be utterly confounded. After that, it was very likely that they would cease their schemes but there was a very slim chance of them preparing even more sinister means.


    "Phew." Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the Inspect Heavenly Token and began informing the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    ¡­


    In midair.


    The six-tailed fox demoness was flying while overlooking the world beneath her. At the same time, she was holding onto a jade token that allowed her to contact friends from everywhere.


    "Thirteenth Sister, is there any information from Qian Prefecture?"


    "Seventh Sister, there''s temporarily no news of any village being massacred in Qian Prefecture. As for demons wreaking havoc and the abduction of humans, there are some reports of that."


    "None were massacred? Alright, gather the information about demons wreaking havoc."


    Six-tailed fox demon, Seventh Madam Yan, contacted friends from every area. Heavenly Demon Palace was the most powerful faction among demons. Seventh Madam Yan''s fellow disciples were scattered across the world and the Heavenly Demon Palace was stronger than any of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons''s lineages. Many demons that were unwilling to get involved with humans would choose to enter the Heavenly Demon Palace. Of course, if the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons combined forces¡­ they were much stronger than the Heavenly Demon Palace. That was something only the joint forces of humans, the Four Seas'' Water race, and the Heavenly Demon Palace could withstand.


    Seventh Madam Yan was drained and exhausted.


    "Darling, I will avenge you. As long as I find them again and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance comes quickly enough, there is a chance of me killing the three demon monarchs," Seventh Madam Yan murmured.


    The beautiful memories of her love, and the hatred for the three demon monarchs, motivated Seventh Madam Yan in her unceasing search for the trio over the past year.


    Suddenly.


    "Miss Seventh, the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain are at Iron Hawk Mountain in Grand Dominance County''s Yangshe Province. They have been killed by Qin Yun." A cultivator from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance contacted Seventh Madam Yan.

 134 Myriad Temples New Price

    Chapter 134: Myriad Temple''s New Price


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Flying at a high altitude, Seventh Madam Yan was instantly left in a daze.


    "Killed by Qin Yun?"


    "They have been killed?"


    "The three demon monarchs have been killed?"


    Seventh Madam Yan had been pursuing them without sleep or rest for the past year as though she was going deranged. At the instant she received the news, she was somewhat in a daze. Even her mind was buzzing with confusion.


    After a few seconds, she repressed her chaotic thoughts and completely came to her senses.


    "Fellow Daoist Chen, did you say that the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain are dead?" asked Seventh Madam Yan immediately.


    "They are dead! They were just killed by Grand Dominance County''s Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun."


    "Where are the three demon monarchs'' corpses? Are they in Iron Hawk Mountain of Grand Dominance County''s Yangshe Province?" Seventh Madam Yan asked again.


    "Yes, the corpses are there."


    "Please immediately pass a message to fellow Daoist Qin Yun that he has to retain the three demon monarchs'' corpses." Seventh Madam Yan said, "Especially the head. I need to use their heads in a ritual to honor my husband."


    "Miss Seventh, I''ll immediately pass your message. Let''s hope that fellow Daoist Qin Yun has yet to destroy their corpses."


    As Seventh Madam Yan sent her messages, she changed directions and immediately headed straight for Jiang Prefecture.


    ¡­


    In Iron Hawk Mountain''s valley.


    Qin Yun put away all the treasures and looked at the three demon monarchs'' corpses. Leopard Demon King and Cat Demon Queen''s corpses were nothing worth mentioning but Flood Dragon King''s corpse was truly massive.


    "Qin Yun, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance will also know that they were killed by you. This scene has been recorded by the Inspect Heavenly Token. Should we destroy the three corpses? It can prevent others from determining your flying sword''s moves," suggested Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun pointed at Flood Dragon King''s corpse and said with a laugh, "It took me dozens of strikes to break through his physical defenses and impale his heart. I left behind this corpse for others to see¡­ To let them know that my flying sword''s strength isn''t that great!"


    "You used dozens of strikes to break through the strength-enhanced Flood Dragon King''s body," quipped Yi Xiao.


    "But others do not know that," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Suddenly, a phantom projection appeared beside the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    The projection was that of a middle-aged Daoist. "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, please retain the three demon monarchs'' corpses."


    "Oh? Why so?" Qin Yun inquired. "The scene recorded by the Inspect Heavenly Token should be sufficient to ascertain the meritorious deed, right?"


    "It''s a request from Heavenly Demon Palace''s Seventh Madam Yan," said the middle-aged Daoist. "Everything that happened has been recorded in the dossiers."


    Phew.


    A dense series of text appeared inside the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were taken aback when they read it.


    "This Seventh Madam Yan sure is pitiful," said Yi Xiao softly.


    "Love between humans and demons." Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, sorry for the trouble," said the middle-aged Daoist.


    "Fellow Daoist Chen, please inform Seventh Madam Yan that I will leave the three corpses intact till she arrives," said Qin Yun.


    "Thank you, fellow Daoist Qin Yun. The people sent by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance will soon arrive in Iron Hawk Mountain," said the middle-aged Daoist with a smile before the transmission was cut.


    Yi Xiao whispered, "The records say that Seventh Madam Yan''s husband is only a mortal. After his village was massacred by the three demon monarchs, Seventh Madam Yan has been pursuing them ever since. She did not sleep or rest for nearly a year. The three demon monarchs had been discovered by Seventh Madam Yan twice but they were fast at escaping. By the time people from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance came, the three demon monarchs had fled. Yet, she has been pursuing them constantly."


    Qin Yun extended his hand and held Yi Xiao''s hand.


    Yi Xiao turned to look at Qin Yun.


    "Regardless, we will walk the cultivation path together," said Qin Yun.


    "Okay." Yi Xiao smiled and nodded gently.


    ******


    The people from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance arrived first.


    A golden ship flew over and the leader was Daoist Yan. Behind him was a group of cultivators. Many of them were Postnatal cultivators that had just knocked open the gate of immortality. They were responsible for trifling matters. There was no need for Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors like Qin Yun to handle them.


    "Come, each one of you, report which village you are from."


    "Those from the same village, stand together."


    "Separate yourselves."


    The Postnatal cultivators immediately handled the villagers.


    Daoist Yan, who was the leader of the golden ship, landed beside Qin Yun and Yi Xiao with a smile. When he saw the corpses of the three demon monarchs, he exclaimed, "Fellow Daoist Qin, you sure are impressive. Even the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain have perished under your hand. Especially this Flood Dragon King. He''s very infamous but also extremely powerful. Even I am not his match."


    "I was lucky," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "There is no such thing as luck in a life-and-death struggle. By the way, the body that Flood Dragon King cultivates can match that of a Dharma treasure. Its pair of claws is especially powerful. Can you sell me the claws? I have some use for them." Daoist Yan noticed at a glance that the claws of Flood Dragon King were most extraordinary.


    "Sure," said Qin Yun. "But we have to wait till Seventh Madam Yan arrives."


    "Seventh Madam Yan?" Daoist Yan nodded slightly.


    ¡­


    A few moments later.


    "Seventh Madam Yan is here." Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Daoist Yan turned to look over.


    A peerless beauty with six furry tails flew from afar. Her extreme speed left Qin Yun and Daoist Yan astounded. In terms of looks, Seventh Madam Yan was almost as good as Yi Xiao. However, her beauty was different from Yi Xiao as she had a stunning seductive charm. However, her eyes were brimming with tears at the moment. When she landed, her tails were retracted. After all, she had used all her Dharmic powers to rush here.


    "Evil Dragon Mountain''s three demon monarchs." Seventh Madam Yan noticed the three corpses when she landed. Her teary eyes were filled with hatred.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun," Seventh Madam Yan turned to look at the trio and immediately came forward to bow. "Thank you, fellow Daoist for doing the deed of killing the three demon monarchs. If not, I would have no idea when I would be able to settle this vendetta."


    "Slaying fiendish demons is a responsibility of mine," said Qin Yun. "Miss Seventh, there''s no need for you to be bothered by it."


    "I have a presumptuous request. I need the three demon monarchs'' heads to honor my husband," said Seventh Madam Yan. "Of course, I''m willing to gift you something in exchange."


    "Feel free to take it away," said Qin Yun. "There''s no need for any treasures."


    Seventh Madam Yan was taken aback as she saw Yi Xiao standing beside Qin Yun. The two looked like an immortal couple and they looked intimate. Seventh Madam Yan smiled and waved her hand. A translucent robe flew from her. "This is a Shadow Concealment Robe refined from the Skyfoxes'' tail fur. My master had given this to me to protect me. However, having accomplished my cultivation, this Shadow Concealment Robe is no longer of use to me. I''ll give it to this young sister."


    With that said, the translucent robe flew towards Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao said immediately, "This is too expensive."


    "Sister, just keep it. Fellow Daoist Qin Yun has helped me settle my revenge. I don''t even know how to thank him, so this robe is nothing," said Seventh Madam Yan. As she spoke, she turned and headed for the three demon monarchs'' corpses and cut off their heads.


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "Take it," said Qin Yun.


    He had heard of the Shadow Concealment Robe before too. Only the Skyfox clan from the Heavenly Demon Palace was able to refine them. They were fifth-grade Dharma treasures and their rarity was not inferior to fourth-grade Dharma treasures. With the Shadow Concealment Robe, Yi Xiao''s life preservation abilities would also be enhanced greatly.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin and this young sister, let''s exchange messaging marks with each other." Seventh Madam Yan walked over after putting away the demon monarchs'' heads. "In the future, if there''s any help needed, feel free to ask."


    "I''m Yi Xiao, a disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter," Yi Xiao introduced herself.


    "A nice name," said Seventh Madam Yan with a smile. "I seldom see a female human more beautiful than our Skyfox race. It''s no wonder fellow Daoist Qin Yun has fallen for you."


    As long as one wasn''t a fool, one could tell that Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were very close.


    Yi Xiao blushed slightly.


    Both parties left a messaging mark with each other.


    "Then, I won''t be staying here any longer. Both of you are powerful cultivators. You will be more blissful than me and my husband." Seventh Madam Yan smiled before flying away.


    After having her vendetta resolved, she was a lot calmer. All she wanted was to honor her husband and later, return to the Heavenly Demon Palace to cultivate in seclusion.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked up as they watched Seventh Madam Yan leave.


    ******


    Indeed, the matter of Qin Yun killing the three demon monarchs stirred some humans and demons! Ignoring the repression of Black Demon King as he was not killed, but for Qin Yun to kill the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain alone, with one of them being Flood Dragon King, that was an appalling piece of news!


    "Qin Yun''s strength among all the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors in Jiang Prefecture probably ranks him as one of the best." Scenic Mountain Sect''s Palatial Lord Essence Charm, as well as the incumbent sect master, were discussing the matter.


    "He''s already this powerful at present. When he enters the Connate True Core realm, I''m afraid I won''t be able to take him down anymore," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "He is unaffiliated and also a Jiang Prefecture local. He can help our Scenic Mountain Sect too."


    ¡­


    The Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world was happy to have their strength enhanced.


    Elsewhere, in the Kong Prefecture, where the Zhongli family''s fief, Li City, was, Matron Le was inside a luxurious residence.


    "What?"


    Seated there, Matron Le looked at the phantom that appeared in midair in front of her. The flood dragon with dark red scales was looking over from the projection when Matron Le could not help but say, "You are backing out?"


    "Yes, we are backing out of the assassination mission. The three Immortal Crystals will be refunded to you, Matron Le," said the flood dragon.


    "How can you back out? If there''s one failure, try a second time. If there are two failures, try a third time," Myriad Temple said. "Isn''t it your Myriad Temple''s rule of doing it once the mission is accepted?"


    The flood dragon said, "Yes, and if we can''t do it, the Immortal Crystals will be fully refunded."


    "Refunded?" Matron Le stared at the flood dragon through the projection.


    "The two assassination attempts we planned have failed completely," said the flood dragon. "According to our judgments, the strength of this human sword immortal, Qin Yun, is a lot higher than we previously anticipated. Therefore, the three Immortal Crystals will be refunded! If you want our Myriad Temple to continue the assassination, more Immortal Crystals will be needed."


    "How much?" Matron Le frowned.


    "Thirty," said the flood dragon with a faint smile. His dragon whiskers were flailing about in the water.


    "Thirty?" Matron Le was shocked and incensed. "How is it that much? Even a newly-promoted Connate Golden Core cultivator would only need fifty. Don''t you think I''m not aware. That Qin Yun had to use dozens of strikes from his flying sword to tear through Flood Dragon King''s body before slaying him. He is stronger than Flood Dragon King because of his successful restraint on him."


    The flood dragon smiled. "Our Myriad Temple does not care about the process, only the outcome! The outcome is that three demon monarchs are dead. Flood Dragon King didn''t even have a chance of escaping the valley before being killed. Then, to kill Qin Yun would require thirty Immortal Crystals! As for the wounds on the corpse? That can be faked!"


    Matron Le was taken aback.


    "Thirty Immortal Crystals. Do you want to continue the assassination?" asked the flood dragon with dark red scales.


    Matron Le clenched her teeth and took a deep breath. "There''s no need."


    "Alright, the three Immortal Crystals will be returned to you tomorrow at your residence, Matron Le." After saying that, the transmission was severed.


    Matron Le had an ugly expression as she clenched her teeth and said, "Killing Qin Yun alone needs thirty Immortal Crystals? To think they dare offer such a price, do they think I''m dumb?"


    As she spoke, she could not help but wave her hand, sending the teacups on the tea table flying before they shattered onto the ground.

 135 Departure Final Chapter of Volume

    News of Qin Yun killing the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain made the humans, demons, and the Four Seas'' Water race peoples of the world notice the existence of a powerful Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador! But it only made them prick their brows up at him. After all, no matter how powerful Flood Dragon King seemed, he was only a Connate True Core fiendish demon! The slaying of a fiendish demon at that level was not a big deal when placed against the backdrop of the entire world.


    However, it was quite a rare feat to make everyone in the world aware of his existence! Before he slew the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain, Qin Yun had little fame. Many demons and the Four Seas'' Water race were unaware of him before.


    When Qin Yun became a Connate Golden Core cultivator or killed a Connate Golden Core realm great demon, that would be the day his name became famous throughout the world! He would join the ranks of the Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors!


    ¡­


    After that battle, it was the new year.


    The new year was a festive season. Many places in Grand Dominance City had performances and it was one of the rare occasions where the commoners changed into beautiful clothes as they visited their relatives and elders.


    As for the Baili family of the Jiang Prefecture''s East Gong County, it was a time of bleak silence.


    "Patriarch, not a single clue could be found." A middle-aged man knelt in the middle of a hall.


    "Your father and all his men vanished without a trace?" The Baili family''s patriarch, Baili Qin, was sitting on a chair, eyes filled with anger.


    "There was nothing," said the middle-aged man with a helpless murmur.


    "Continue investigating the matter. Use every means possible." Baili Qin waved his hand.


    "Yes, Patriarch." The middle-aged man immediately departed.


    In the empty hall, Baili Qin muttered, "Who is targeting our Baili family? Chong''er and the rest are mostly cultivators. Chong''er has even entered the Connate False Core realm. Did he vanish without even sending me a transmission call for help? Who? Who could do that?"


    "Who did my Baili family offend? Why are they so ruthless?"


    "I will definitely investigate the matter. Regardless of who it is, I''ll make you pay the price." Baili Qin''s eyes were filled with bloodlust.


    Suddenly.


    "Ah!"


    Baili Qin suddenly held his head as he growled in pain.


    "Patriarch, Patriarch, what''s the problem?" The guard outside the hall rushed in when he noticed the disturbance. But just as he entered, the patriarch collapsed to the ground silently. He was no longer breathing.


    "A hex!"


    Baili Qin curled onto the ground in pain as he clenched his head.


    His soul was rather strong, so he attempted to withstand the pain with all his might. However, he failed for the rift between him and the perpetrator was too huge.


    "Which Heaven Magus could it be? How would I, Baili Qin, offend a Heaven Magus senior? Please tell me. I, Baili Qin, will definitely make recompense. Senior Heaven Magus, spare me! Spare me, please!" Baili Qin begged. Such a powerful magus art meant that it was done by a Heaven Magus from the magus lineage. The rank was equivalent to the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "No, no¡­" Baili Qin felt his soul dissipating as he pleaded. "Spare me, spare me¡­"


    "Your Baili family had once connived with demons to rob commoners, implicating the family of a disciple of my Magistress Mountain. My destruction of you is the result of that karma." A cold woman''s voice rang in Baili Qin''s ears.


    "Magistress Mountain?" Baili Qin found it unbelievable. Top cultivation sects were afraid of offending the Magistress Mountain the most. Everyone knew that, as the only cultivation sect of the magus lineage, Magistress Mountain would seek revenge in a ruthless manner if it was provoked.


    "Connived with demons to rob commoners?" In Baili Qin''s stupor, his soul was finally dispersed.


    Baili Qin, dead!


    Hexes targeted only the soul!


    If the soul could withstand it, survival! Otherwise, death!


    After Baili Qin''s death, even his body was destroyed secretly by the Magistress Mountain''s expert. Not a single trace was left behind since powerful cultivators could guess at hexes during postmortem examination.


    ¡­


    With the Baili family''s Baili Qin and Baili Chong¡ªtwo Connate realm cultivators¡ªvanishing, as well as the disappearance of the powerful Elders in the clan, leaving no corpses behind, rats left a sinking ship as they do. Naturally, some distinguished mercenaries departed immediately, causing the Baili family to collapse suddenly. And as the Baili family usually engaged in ruthless acts, it had quite a number of enemies. It naturally received backlash! Even some of the demons they controlled turned on them¡­


    The Baili family that once flourished disbanded from then on.


    ******


    Chen Shuang and a red-dressed woman stood above a cloud as they overlooked the distant Grand Dominance City.


    "Grand Dominance," whispered Chen Shuang. "This is my hometown. I have never left Grand Dominance since I was young."


    "When you become the incumbent Magus Maiden, you can return at any time," said the red-dressed woman with a smile. "When that time comes, you will also be a cultivator. Flying in the sky and burrowing in the ground will be trivial."


    "Return?" Chen Shuang looked down with a conflicted gaze. "I don''t even know if I can come out of the Magus Matriarch Cave alive. Perhaps I might perish there."


    "What are you talking about? The Magus Matriarch Gu likes you quite a bit. You will definitely survive," said the red-dressed woman.


    Chen Shuang looked down.


    "Brother Yun." Chen Shuang thought to herself, "I wonder when I will be able to meet you again. If I were to die in the Magus Matriarch Cave, I hope you will not forget me."


    "Let''s go," said Chen Shuang.


    "Alright." The red-dressed woman nodded.


    Phew.


    Immediately, they departed on a cloud and headed for Magistress Mountain.


    ¡­


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun held the letter in his hand and saw what was written:


    "¡­Brother Yun, I wish to venture out into the world, taking in the scenes from everywhere. If I do not come back, please don''t forget me."


    Qin Yun looked up at Auntie Xue, who was standing in front of him. He asked immediately, "Auntie Xue, when did Xiao Shuang leave?"


    "I do not know either. I found the letter when I entered her room," said Auntie Xue. "Also...there¡¯s another matter but I¡¯m not sure I should inform you of it."


    "Speak," said Qin Yun eagerly.


    "Years ago, Xiao Shuang''s brother, Xie Lei, had led the escort company on a job. They encountered demons and hundreds of men, including Xiao Shuang''s brother, died. Only a few managed to flee and survive," said Auntie Xue. "Back then, Xie Lei and company had discovered that the East Gong County''s Baili family had connived with demons to plunder their company¡¯s haul. An elderly survivor of the escort company passed the information to us."


    "East Gong County''s Baili family?" Qin Yun was astonished. "The death of Madman and his brothers at the escort company was masterminded by the Baili family?"


    "Yes."


    Auntie Xue continued, "Xiao Shuang barred me from telling you, afraid that she would trouble you. I''m informing you now that the Baili family has been eradicated, Young Master Qin. Also, I believe that¡­Xiao Shuang had known they would be destroyed before it happened. Just a few days after they were eradicated, Xiao Shuang left."


    "Why didn''t you tell me this earlier?" Qin Yun felt a little anxious.


    "Young Master Qin, don''t worry. Xiao Shuang left the letter in her own handwriting. Clearly, she wants to go out into the world by herself. With the grudge settled, Xiao Shuang probably wants to lead a life of her own," said Auntie Xue. "The pressure of holding onto the grudge for the past few years has made Xiao Shuang suffer."


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    "The Baili family was eradicated silently. Their experts vanished without even leaving corpses," Qin Yun whispered. "If it has something to do with Xiao Shuang, she must have gotten to know a powerful cultivator. It''s even possible that it''s a Connate Golden Core cultivator."


    Even if he was the one taking action, there was no way he could do it so cleanly without leaving a trace.


    "Xiao Shuang¡­"


    Although Qin Yun was consoling himself, he was still somewhat worried. However, the world was vast, so there was no way of knowing where she had gone.


    ******


    February.


    The vegetation returned. Even old trees began sprouting.


    "Qin Yun, look at you. It''s as though I''ll be gone for years. It''s only three months." Yi Xiao and Qin Yun held hands while standing by the little mirror lake. Yi Xiao said with a smile, "I''ll return after three months."


    "Alright." Qin Yun was somewhat reluctant to part as he said, "I heard that there is some danger when entering the Lightning Pool. You have to be careful."


    "The Lightning Pool attracts the natural lightning of the world, so there''s definitely some danger. However, with the accumulated experience of my Divine Firmament Chapter''s seniors, as well as the establishment of so many array formations, problems seldom happen. Even when there''s a problem, it''s not fatal." Yi Xiao smiled. "Entering the Lightning Pool for cultivation is a dream of all Lightning Dharma cultivators. It''s a rare opportunity."


    "I''m leaving." Yi Xiao looked at the sky. "If I don''t leave now, it will be dark by the time I get to the Divine Firmament Chapter."


    "Alright, take care. Message me if there''s anything you need," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "See you in three months."


    "See you in three months." Qin Yun smiled.


    Yi Xiao went forward and kissed him before retreating with a smile. Then, she departed on a cloud.


    Qin Yun watched as Yi Xiao left before murmuring, "See you again in three months."


    ¡­


    A day not long after Yi Xiao''s departure.


    Far away from Grand Dominance City, a fat monk was chortling in the sky. He waved his hand and sent out a stream of light that flew for more than fifty kilometers before it landed in Grand Dominance County''s Qin Manor.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun was sitting cross-legged by the lake and cultivating his flying sword arts. Suddenly, he sensed the stream of light flying at him at high speeds. He immediately beckoned with his hand.


    Shoo!


    A sword beam flew out and wrapped around the stream of light, bringing it towards him.


    "This is?" Qin Yun looked at the dazzling crystal in front of him. "An Immortal Crystal? One Immortal Crystal?"


    Qin Yun was alarmed. An Immortal Crystal was extremely precious. Even the combined treasures that Gongye Bing had left behind were worth slightly less than an Immortal Crystal.


    "Who is giving me an Immortal Crystal for no reason?" Qin Yun was puzzled. When he sensed it, he remarked, "There''s a mark on the Immortal Crystal?"


    Qin Yun took out his Inspect Heavenly Token.


    He conjured the mark into the Inspect Heavenly Token and immediately contacted the other party.


    Hum¡ª


    In a floating projection in front of him was the interior of a water palace. There was water flowing around as a flood dragon covered in dark red scales coiled there. His dragon whiskers were flailing and he had an unfathomable aura. His dragon eyes were looking at Qin Yun as though they were smiling. "I''m Myriad Temple''s ambassador. That Immortal Crystal is just a tiny gift my Myriad Temple is giving to you, Sword Immortal Qin Yun."


    "Myriad Temple?" Qin Yun was baffled as he said with a smile. "Sorry for my scant knowledge. This is the first time I''m hearing of Myriad Temple. However, to give an Immortal Crystal on our first meeting as a gift, your Myriad Temple sure is generous."


    The flood dragon smiled and said, "My Myriad Temple encompasses all myriad phenomena. Dharma treasures, cultivation techniques, spirit fruits, strange artifacts¡­ even beauties from every race, high positions, and riches, or anyone you want to kill or be a disciple of, any immortal pill you want. As long as you can pay the price, my Myriad Temple can help you achieve it."


    (End of Volume)

 136 Sixth Token

    Chapter 136: Sixth Token


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Near the end of spring, under the shade of the summer woods.


    Qin Yun sat on a boulder beside the lake, watching the sunlight scatter through the tree''s shade onto the surface of the lake. Ripples were left behind when birds flew past.


    "The swallows have returned and the flowers have fallen. It''s almost May, and I wonder how Yi Xiao''s cultivation at Divine Firmament Chapter''s Lightning Pool has been going." Qin Yun was in a good mood as he waved his right hand.


    Shoo!


    A flying sword that resembled misty rain shot into the sky and flew freely around him, leaving behind shockwaves in midair.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has also reached the fourth-grade," Qin Yun muttered to himself. "However, reaching the third-grade will be difficult. Even if I attain the sufficient realm and amass the treasures needed, it would still take a year or two."


    An Intrinsic Flying Sword was easy to nurture and cultivate in the early stages.


    For example, a ninth-grade flying sword? It would eventually succeed even if scrap metal was used.


    But as the Intrinsic Flying Sword increased in grade, the materials it demanded became more stringent. Reaching a fourth-grade flying sword required the grasp of sword intent! Only by nurturing an Intrinsic Flying Sword with sword intent would it reach the fourth-grade.


    One had to attain a sword intent domain before the Intrinsic Flying Sword could be nurtured; only then would it have a chance of reaching the third-grade.


    Upon reaching the Sword Intent Paramount realm, coupled with numerous natural treasures, it would reach the second-grade.


    By grasping Sword Dao, and using it to nurture the flying sword''s soul while allowing it to extract the powers of the Heaven and Earth, an Intrinsic Flying Sword could be enhanced to the legendary ranks of first-grade Dharma treasures.


    Therefore, the higher the Dharma treasure''s grade, the harder it became to raise it. However, its strength would also become immense. For example, an owner using a first-grade Dharma treasure would be able to deliver strength that matched that of Numinous treasures. Numinous treasures were deemed as cornerstone treasures of sects or races. They way they were used determined the fate of an ancient sect or an entire race! It was obvious how powerful such a treasure could be.


    What a pity, then, that they were so rare!


    It was extremely rare to grasp Sword Dao. In the many sword formulations from Daoist Chen''s lineage, there were only three sword formulations that could attain the level of Sword Dao. The oldest sword formulation was even created more than ten thousand years ago.


    "Fourth-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword. With this, I should be able to contend with various figures at the Connate Golden Core realm." Qin Yun smiled faintly. Suddenly, he sensed something and beckoned with his hand. With a whoosh, the flying sword that was engaging in sword arts a distant away flew back into Qin Yun''s sleeve.


    "Second Young Master, Young Master Hong Lingtong wishes to seek an audience." Ah Gui''s voice came from outside.


    Qin Yun flicked his sleeve.


    The door opened.


    "Brother Hong, come on in." Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong, who was standing outside the yard.


    Hong Lingtong walked in with a wooden stave in hand before Ah Gui closed the door.


    Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong in astonishment. At Qin Yun''s realm, his sensitivity towards the Heavenly Dao charms was deep. He immediately felt that Hong Lingtong walked with a mysterious rhythm. He could not help but say, "Brother Hong, it''s been several months since we met. You have improved tremendously. Have you grasped a sliver of the Heavenly Dao?"


    "Brother Qin Yun, you think too highly of me," said Hong Lingtong with a smile immediately. "How can the Heavenly Dao be that easily understood? I have just attained Heaven Man Unity, so grasping the Heavenly Dao''s charms would take me at least a decade of hard work to even stand a chance¡­ Of course, over the past few months, I have consolidated my strength and it has improved tremendously as well. I dare say, it gives me the courage to step into the Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Do you plan on entering already?"


    "Yes." Hong Lingtong nodded. "It will be difficult for my strength to make any significant improvements for the time being. It''s time to enter. Besides, I''m entering with Brother Qin Yun. You have just killed the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain and you are now famous. I don''t have to fear a thing if I''m entering with you."


    "Don''t flatter me," said Qin Yun. "We should prepare before entering. You should be aware of my capabilities. I''m only skilled at the flying sword art. I wonder which things you are skilled at?"


    Hong Lingtong smiled and said with confidence, "Divining to pursue good fortune and avoid danger, and array formations are what I''m good at. I can also do inference forecasting, a little of the past and future."


    Qin Yun was alarmed. "Forecast the past and future?"


    "Just a little," said Hong Lingtong. He had entered the Connate realm half a year ago and he had mastered the various Connate techniques in the heritage he had. In addition, he had successfully refined his heritage Dharma treasure which emboldened him to make such claims.


    "The art of forecasting in this world is an extremely rare thing, especially those that dare claim to forecast the past and future. I have never heard of anyone dare make that claim at the Connate False Core realm," quipped Qin Yun.


    "There are three lineages, including mine, that are capable of doing that at the Connate False Core realm," elaborated Hong Lingtong. "One of them is a heritage from Numinous Treasure Mountain, and the other is a heritage of Magistress Mountain. However, I''ve heard that the heritage of the clairvoyance magus art of Magistress Mountain is also incomplete. In fact, mine is incomplete as well."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "To have such an achievement despite it being incomplete is still impressive. It appears that I¡¯ll be relying on you during our trip to Immortal Scenic Yang''s cave abode."


    "When fighting enemies head-on, I''ll still greatly rely on you, Brother Qin Yun," replied Hong Lingtong. "What I learn is considered unorthodox, after all. Also, please keep it a secret."


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun nodded.


    "In that case, let''s not delay this any further. I''ll arrange to meet Scenic Mountain Sect''s Palatial Lord Essence Charm tomorrow," said Qin Yun. "Now is the end of April. It''s best we enter the immortal''s cave abode¡­ near the end of June. How does that sound?"


    May was when Yi Xiao came out of seclusion.


    Qin Yun wanted to meet her before entering the cave abode.


    "Alright. I''ll leave everything up to you, Brother Qin Yun." Hong Lingtong flipped his hand and produced an incomplete token. "I''ll leave this token with you. When the time comes for us to meet the people from the Scenic Mountain Sect, you can say that you were the one who found it. After all, I''m afraid¡­ afraid that the people from the Scenic Mountain Sect would rob it from me. I do not have the confidence to hold on to it."


    The token flew towards Qin Yun.


    "You trust me that much?" Qin Yun took a glance at the token and could not help but look at Hong Lingtong.


    "If I didn''t trust you, I would not have invited you to join me on this trip to the cave abode," answered Hong Lingtong.


    Qin Yun immediately extended his hand to take it from him. "Alright, come with me tomorrow to Vessel Altar County."


    ¡­


    Scenic Mountain Sect.


    "What''s all the mystery about? I asked him what it was about but he refused to tell me in detail. He insists on telling me in person." Palatial Lord Essence Charm, with his white beard and Daoist robe, took a step forward onto a cloud and flew up. When the disciples responsible for the Scenic Mountain Sect''s defensive array formation saw that it was Palatial Lord Essence Charm, they naturally let him pass. After he flew out of the Scenic Mountain Sect''s defenses, his body transformed into a bolt of lightning.


    Sou!


    A bolt of lightning streaked across the sky and headed straight for Vessel Altar City.


    Inside Vessel Altar City.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm quickly landed beside a restaurant. The people around him did not seem to notice him and naturally ''ignored'' him. He leisurely entered the restaurant and came to a private room on the second floor before pushing the door open.


    Inside the private room, Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong stood up.


    "Senior Essence Charm." Qin Yun was rather polite. Although his strength was rather close to his, Qin Yun still remained reverential to Palatial Lord Essence Charm. Firstly, he was a local Connate Golden Core cultivator of the Jiang Prefecture. With his Lightning Dharma that was faster than the flying sword art, he had the highest number of fiendish demon kills among the Connate Golden Core cultivators in the Jiang Prefecture! Qin Yun was naturally impressed by him. Secondly, back when he had escaped into the East Sea, it was Palatial Lord Essence Charm that led a convoy to him and inducted him into the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    Back then, he was reeling in despair. The excitement he received when Palatial Lord Essence Charm arrived and invited him to join the Inspector Heavenly Alliance was something Qin Yun would never forget for the rest of his life. He was naturally on good terms with Essence Charm.


    "Qin Yun, what is this that you can''t just tell me through a message? You didn''t visit the Scenic Mountain Sect and instead wanted to tell me in detail in an ordinary restaurant in Vessel Altar City?" Palatial Lord Essence Charm chuckled as he sat straight down. He picked up a pair of chopsticks and picked a piece of fish to eat. "This person beside you must be Grand Dominance County''s Hong Lingtong, right?"


    "Greetings Senior Essence Charm, I''m Hong Lingtong." Hong Lingtong was very humble towards the top cultivator of the Jiang Prefecture as well.


    "This is something of the utmost importance. Also, it has to be highly confidential. Therefore, I chose to meet you in this ordinary restaurant," said Qin Yun.


    "Confidential?" Palatial Lord Essence Charm was astonished. "Tell me, what is it?"


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode," said Qin Yun.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm was taken aback and he stared at Qin Yun. "The news of my Scenic Mountain Sect''s Perfected Scenic Yang leaving behind a cave abode isn''t confidential. Why are you raising the matter?"


    "I know that to enter the abode, six tokens are needed," Qin Yun said. "Also, the Scenic Mountain Sect has already confirmed the location of five of the tokens."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm stared at Qin Yun.


    "And I have the sixth token." Qin Yun flipped his hand and a token fragment appeared in his hand.


    "What?" Palatial Lord Essence Charm could not help but stand up as his white beard trembled in excitement. He stared intently at the token and, with his sharp senses, he instantly perceived every angle of the token. He could not help but be delighted. "Excellent, truly excellent. I finally managed to see the sixth token while still alive. The six tokens have finally been gathered!"


    As he spoke, his eyes were brimming with tears.


    The Scenic Mountain Sect had once been overrun by fiendish demons. Back then, a Daoist sacred land was robbed of its accumulated treasures. Many of the powerful heritages were severed as well. Only the top heritages of the sect were left hidden in Scenic Yang Cave Abode by Perfected Scenic Yang. To reclaim them was something Scenic Mountain Sect disciples of every generation yearned for more than anything else.

 137 Sis Yuqing

    Chapter 137: Sis Yuqing


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm quickly calmed himself and sat down. He smiled at Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong before sighing. "Sorry for the outburst. I made a fool of myself in front of you two."


    "Senior Essence Charm, you were just excited over your sect''s future," commented Hong Lingtong.


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm nodded and said with a smile, "I''m already an old man. I''ll probably not see the day my Scenic Mountain Sect is restored to being a Daoist sacred land. But if all the manuals are returned, my Scenic Mountain Sect will constantly increase in strength, with each generation being stronger than the other. In several hundred years or even a thousand years, my Scenic Mountain Sect will definitely be restored to a Daoist sacred land."


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong nodded.


    In fact, the major factions of the world did not covet the Scenic Mountain Sect''s heritage! First, it was impossible that the Scenic Mountain Sect would just hand the manuals to outsiders. Second, the various major factions had their own heritages. Qin Yun, for example, cultivated a Sword Immortal Legacy, and the Dharmic powers he wielded were that of a sword immortal''s¡­ There was no way he could convert his cultivation into other styles. Yi Xiao was the same. She cultivated in the Lightning Dharma and could not cultivate in anything else.


    Only those who cultivated in superficial Dharmic formulations could convert their cultivation path with powerful Dharmic formulations.


    And the better the sect, the more unlikely they would convert!


    "My friends, I won''t lie to you," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "The other five tokens have their rightful owners. None of them are with my Scenic Mountain Sect. But my Scenic Mountain Sect has also made arrangements with the other five parties! Each group can send two cultivators at most. And my Scenic Mountain Sect will send three cultivators. However, we have already announced that among all the treasures in the Scenic Yang Cave Abode, we only want the manuals! The Numinous treasure or Dharma treasures¡­ the holders of the six tokens will have to vie for them, and may the best man win."


    "However, the manuals must be returned to my Scenic Mountain Sect. The location of the Scenic Yang Cave Abode has long been covered with arrays. Without my Scenic Mountain Sect''s permission, no can enter even with the tokens," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    Although Scenic Mountain Sect did not have any tokens, they still heavily secured Scenic Yang Cave Abode!


    "I''m a sword immortal and there''s no way I can convert my Dharmic formulations," said Qin Yun. "I naturally will not take any of the manuals."


    "I believe you, Qin Yun." Palatial Lord Essence Charm nodded. "It''s just that I have to make things clear ahead of time. Also, about the possessors of the other five tokens¡­ I can give you general information on them. One of them is in the royal palace. Three of them respectively belong to three thousand-year-old family clans, and the final token is in the hands of a Connate Golden Core cultivator."


    "These five factions are forces to be reckoned with." Palatial Lord Essence Charm smiled. "The treasures left behind by Ancestor Scenic Yang are coveted by the imperial government and the thousand-year-old family clans. Even Essence Soul immortals want it. However, the array formation set up by Ancestral Master Scenic Yang is very impressive. It completely forbids even Essence Soul immortals from entering. As for those at the Connate Golden Core realm, the array could end their lives."


    "Other than that danger, even if you finally leave the place with treasures¡­ It would be fine if the treasures are ordinary, but what if you obtain a Numinous treasure? Qin Yun, I''m afraid that the imperial government and the various large family clans will try to take anything valuable from you forcefully," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "Even if you are willing to sell it, the treasures needed to exchange for a Numinous treasure are just too much. It will also lead to demons and other humans coveting them."


    "Without strength, one will not be able to secure any treasures," Palatial Lord Essence Charm smiled as he looked at Qin Yun.


    "Senior Essence Charm, what do you mean?" Qin Yun looked back at him.


    "My Scenic Mountain Sect only wants the manuals and not the treasures. In that way, we are detached from any conflicts. The other factions would not vie with us for the manuals," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "I''m telling you this to warn you, my friend. Without enough strength, you won''t be able to secure any treasures! Even Connate Golden Core cultivators would not dare claim to be capable of securing a Numinous treasure alone unless they were among the top few."


    "At your strength, you probably might not even be able to secure a first-grade Dharma treasure," explained Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "After all, most first-grade Dharma treasures are in the hands of Essence Soul immortals."


    "And entering the immortal''s cave alone is a great risk. Yet, you risk losing the powerful treasures after obtaining them. And the trip wouldn''t be worth it to only obtain ordinary treasures. That''s why I suggest that you¡­ sell the token! Sell it to the imperial government or the thousand-year-old family clans," Palatial Lord Essence Charm suggested. "That way, there is no risk and you still gain a large amount of treasure without others knowing."


    "How much could this token exchange for?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I estimate a third-grade Dharma treasure would be possible," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "It will be difficult to ask for anything more! After all, the expedition will be very risky and it''s not even certain that you will receive something better in the abode."


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong exchanged looks.


    "There''s no need to do that." Hong Lingtong said with a voice transmission. "With the both of us, we will definitely obtain treasures worth more than that! And as long as we take treasures in secret, who would know about the things we obtained if we do not say or show them publicly?"


    "We still plan on entering the immortal''s cave abode to take a look," said Qin Yun.


    When Palatial Lord Essence Charm saw the scene play out, he nodded. "Alright then. Now, with all six tokens gathered, my Scenic Mountain Sect will prepare for the expedition. When do you plan on entering?"


    "It''s now the end of April. Let''s do it in June, preferably towards the end of June," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll return now and inform the other five parties. Once the date is settled, I''ll inform you," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "On your side, the both of you will be the ones entering?"


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm had guessed it when Qin Yun brought Hong Lingtong to meet him.


    However, he was somewhat puzzled¡­ Why would Qin Yun bring Hong Lingtong to the immortal''s cave abode? Why didn''t he invite someone more powerful? Could it be that Qin Yun secretly schemed to take more of the treasures because Hong Lingtong was easily repressed due to his weak strength?


    "It will be the two of us," said Qin Yun. "Senior Essence Charm, please keep the news of the two of us confidential."


    "Don''t worry. But on the day of entry, the six parties will meet and it will no longer be a secret," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "That will be when we enter, so there''s naturally no need to keep it a secret," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright, I''ll be returning first. I have to thank you, Qin Yun. You have allowed my Scenic Mountain Sect to have a chance of regaining our lost heritage." Palatial Lord Essence Charm raised his cup, as Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong raised theirs in response.


    After drinking the wine, Palatial Lord Essence Charm got up and pushed open the door. The moment he walked into the open corridor, he streaked through the sky as a whizzing bolt of lightning, vanishing into the distant horizon as he headed straight for Scenic Mountain Sect.


    "He''s fast." Hong Lingtong had gone out into the corridor as well. As he held the railings, he looked into the distance. "In terms of flying and escape arts, Senior Essence Charm should be ranked number one in all of Jiang Prefecture, I suppose?"


    "That''s right. His escape art is indeed the best in Jiang Prefecture. Fiendish demons that he locks on to have no way of escaping." Qin Yun walked to the railing.


    "We are about to enter the immortal''s cave abode. I''m truly a little nervous," said Hong Lingtong.


    Qin Yun looked at him. "I''m rather impressed that you dare enter the abode with your present strength."


    "Brother Qin Yun, isn''t that because I''m under your huge banner?" Hong Lingtong smiled and said, "Brother Qin Yun, let''s return to Grand Dominance now?"


    Qin Yun shot a glance into the distance and looked deep in thought.


    "You return first. I have something else to tend to," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright."


    Hong Lingtong immediately departed silently.


    Qin Yun looked into the distance and was somewhat astonished. "I swear I saw that clearly." Although it was several kilometers away, Qin Yun''s extraordinary vision allowed him to discern the other person''s looks clearly.


    Immediately, he took a step forward and vanished from the restaurant. Of course, the bill had been paid. As good cultivators, there was no way they would dine and dash.


    Qin Yun walked among the crowds on the street. He had also naturally cast his Divine Concealment Spell, so none of the passers-by noticed him.


    He strolled leisurely but he was extremely fast. In a blink of an eye, he had traveled several kilometers.


    "Oh?"


    Amid the noisy crowd, Qin Yun looked ahead. "I wasn''t wrong. She''s Sis Yuqing after all. But why is she in such a dire state?"


    Qin Yun had practiced his swordplay in Western Mountain Sword Garden in his youth. Back then, there were about forty members, mostly young males. There were very few females, one of which was Sis Yuqing.


    "Wasn''t it said that Sis Yuqing''s father was posted to the Southbright County and she had left with him? She is apparently married to a sickly young master of the wealthy ''Guihai Family'' in Southbright County." Qin Yun was secretly perplexed.


    ¡­


    On the streets.


    Li Yuqing was adorned with a headscarf and dressed in ordinary cotton clothing and shoes. She carried a baby behind her.


    She had a sword hanging by her waist as she swept her surroundings with her keen gaze. There was a group of guards obstructing her and right in front of her stood a youth with triangular-shaped eyes and a mole on his face. He was sneering at Li Yuqing. "Sister-in-law, you sure can run. You even managed to run all the way to Vessel Altar County! However, do you think you can run from me?"


    "Guihai Cheng, my husband has just recently passed away; yet, you are forcing your younger brother''s wife in such a manner?" Li Yuqing clenched her teeth.


    "My third younger brother is dead and you still want to remain chaste the rest of your life for him?" The youth scoffed. "Besides, I''m his elder brother. Shouldn''t I take care of his wife and daughter after his death?"


    "You are forcing me," Li Yuqing said through clenched teeth.


    "Your sword arts are not bad, but how are you to resist against me?" said the youth with a scoff.


    Li Yuqing looked at the guards blocking her path and with the sound of singing metal, she unsheathed her sword and brought it straight to her neck.


    "If you force me any further, I''ll kill myself." Li Yuqing''s eyes were filled with tears.


    However, the youth said, "Why, you don¡¯t want to be with your daughter anymore?"


    "I''ll die with her." Li Yuqing said with a stare. Her eyes showed her determination.


    The youth looked at the woman in front of him. She had caught his eye ever since his brother married her. She was truly beautiful! She was different from the renowned courtesans in the brothels and the commonly seen beauties. As his sister-in-law, Li Yuqing liked sword arts and her talent in them was high, she had a natural bearing of a sword hero. With her excellent beauty, he had been coveting her all this while.


    After a long wait, his sickly brother finally passed away. Li Yuqing''s father had died while dealing with demons and she lacked someone to fall back on. Finally, the lovely flower would fall into his hands. However, he never expected her to be so unyielding in her moral integrity. She would rather escape the family with her daughter then submit to him.


    "Brother Li, are you confident that you can take her down? You must not let her die," said the youth with a voice transmission. He too was a cultivator.


    "This woman''s sword arts are at quite a high proficiency. However, I''m very near to her and if I suddenly cast a Dharma spell, there is a ninety percent chance of taking her down while preventing her suicide. Second Young Master, do you want me to take action?" asked another cultivator with a voice transmission.


    Li Yuqing was extremely nervous at that moment.


    She could feel the heat coming from her daughter behind her. She wasn''t even two years old.


    "Lianlian, don''t blame Mommy." Li Yuqing''s eyes were brimming with tears as she muttered under her breath, "Mommy wishes she could bring you up, but Mommy can''t do it."


    As she whispered, she focused on her surroundings warily.


    "Sis Yuqing, it''s been a long while!" A voice sounded.

 138 Reunion of Old Friends

    Chapter 138: Reunion of Old Friends


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Li Yuqing''s heart palpitated intensely. No one had addressed her as ''Sis Yuqing'' in years. Back when she was young, she was independent and insisted on joining the Western Mountain Sword Garden that was comprised mostly of young men. She was one of the few girls among them. She had practiced her swordplay there and the boys addressed her as ''Sis Yuqing,'' also because she was the youngest.


    Eventually, when she grew older, her father barred her from going outside all the time.


    And when her father was transferred to Southbright County, she was quickly betrothed and married into the Guihai family. From then on, she was the daughter-in-law of a wealthy family. She was left in the deep recesses of the compound all the time and seldom left the residence. After all, the Guihai family was one of the wealthiest family in Southbright County. That meant that it had many rules. She spent most of her time doing embroidery and accompanying her husband in the backyard. Occasionally, when no one else was around, she would practice her swordplay in front of her husband.


    With her husband still alive, her days were quite alright.


    However, after he passed away from his illnesses, days became worse as she had only given birth to a daughter.


    "Sis Yuqing?" Li Yuqing turned over to where the sound came from. "Who is calling out to me?"


    She looked over.


    She saw a young man walking over with a smile. "Sis Yuqing, do you still remember an old friend from Western Mountain Sword Garden of yesteryear?"


    Qin Yun walked over and completely ignored the guards surrounding Li Yuqing. Most people would have avoided the weapon-wielding guards out of fear.


    "Oh?" The youth with the triangular-shaped eyes frowned as he looked at Qin Yun.


    "Scram!" Immediately, two guards that were standing in front of Qin Yun bellowed as they brandished their blades.


    "I have no grudges with you but you greet me by waving your blades? That isn''t nice," Qin Yun said with a smile as he walked over. He even dodged the blades that came swinging at him with an alarmed expression. However, as he dodged, his fingers gently tapped the two blades, causing their trajectories to change. The two guards now cleaved at each other''s arms and although they had held back at the last moment, it still left them bleeding.


    The blades in the two guards'' hands dropped to the ground as they held their injured arms.


    "Your job is to be a guard. You shouldn''t be that ruthless towards ordinary people or you might harm others as well as yourselves," said Qin Yun as he walked to Li Yuqing''s side. As for the other guards, they were astonished. Even the youth with the triangular eyes was startled.


    They could tell that this busybody was extremely strong.


    While barehanded, Qin Yun had simply tapped twice to injure two guards at the sixth stage of the Qi Refinement realm.


    "Friend, don''t stick your nose into other people''s business," bellowed the youth coldly.


    However, Qin Yun looked at Li Yuqing. The lively girl of the past, ''Sis Yuqing'' of Western Mountain Sword Garden, was now the wife of someone. She was dressed like a female commoner and she had even dirtied her face deliberately. The baby girl on her back was still sleeping soundly.


    "You are Lunatic Yun?" Li Yuqing recognized him. Although Qin Yun had matured greatly, he still very much resembled his fifteen-year-old self.


    "Sis Yuqing, it''s been so many years since we last met, and the first thing you call me is Lunatic Yun?" Qin Yun said in an amused tone.


    "Brother Yun." Li Yuqing''s heart warmed up. However, when she saw the Guihai family around her, she immediately added, "These people are from the Guihai family. Don''t bother with me. Leave quickly."


    "Sis Yuqing, I was the god of swords of our Western Mountain Sword Garden back then," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Now that eight years have passed, I''m a lot stronger than before. Why should I be afraid of a few hooligans?"


    "Hmph!"


    The youth with the triangular eyes sneered and said, "He intimately calls her sis, and she calls him Brother Yun? I say, Sister-in-law, aren''t you unwavering in loyalty towards my dead brother? Why are you flirting with this pretty boy?"


    "Pretty boy?" Qin Yun looked in astonishment at the youth. "It''s so rare that someone calls me a pretty boy. Do I have what it takes to make a living with my face?"


    "Oh well, but compared to you, with those looks of yours¡­" Qin Yun revealed a look of aversion. "Any random person on the streets is probably a pretty boy when compared with you."


    "You sure have a witty mouth." The youth''s face sunk.


    "Brother Yun, he is Guihai Cheng from the Guihai family. He''s a cultivator," said Li Yuqing immediately. "The Guihai family is powerful and not to be provoked. Don''t concern yourself with me."


    The Guihai family naturally had to be powerful to become one of the wealthiest clans in the county.


    Guihai Cheng sneered, "You want him to flee now? It''s too late." With that said, he signaled a subordinate beside him with his eyes.


    "Yes."


    A one-eyed guard standing beside him immediately swung his arms, sending a flying dagger straight at Qin Yun. However, he was unwilling to directly murder someone in the city streets. The flying dagger was aimed at Qin Yun''s arm.


    Phew!


    However, after the flying dagger was thrown, it curved and fell to the ground.


    The surroundings guards were appalled.


    The flying dagger had flown weakly as though it was thrown without any strength. It eventually fell to the ground without touching Qin Yun!


    "Oh?" The cyclops widened his eye. How could his flying dagger technique have failed so miserably? He had clearly used his Quintessential Qi that could even penetrate a boulder. So why did it fall to the ground so lightly?


    "Lone Wolf, did you not put your strength into the flying dagger?" A companion beside him could not help but whisper under his breath.


    Guihai Cheng frowned as well.


    He had seen the flying dagger fly out with his own eyes. No one had touched it but the flying dagger had gently fallen to the ground.


    "I didn''t." The one-eyed guard refused to have his beliefs shaken. He threw a second flying dagger immediately.


    Phew.


    As though a child was throwing it, the flying dagger remained lacking in strength. After flying dozens of feet, it fell to the ground as a spent force before reaching Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun wore an appalled look as he looked at the flying daggers on the ground. Then, he looked at the one-eyed guard standing beside the youth in the distance and said immediately, "Hey, Cyclops, what''s wrong? Did you not eat properly today or are you unwilling to hurt me? Any child would probably throw it farther than you."


    "Have I encountered a ghost?" The one-eyed guard''s face flushed red as he threw six more flying daggers but all of them fluttered to the ground and landed at Qin Yun''s feet.


    Standing beside him, Li Yuqing was in a daze.


    "Stop!"


    Guihai Cheng bellowed and the one-eyed guard stopped.


    "It looks like you are also a cultivator." Guihai Cheng looked at Qin Yun. "I have no idea where you learned those unorthodox Dharma spells from. Are you trying to scare us?"


    "Unorthodox Dharma spells?" Qin Yun said in astonishment. "What Dharma spells are they? Why don''t I know about them?"


    A cultivator hidden in the midst of the guards sent a voice transmission to Guihai Cheng. "Second Young Master, I believe the constables of Vessel Altar County will be rushing over here soon. They are about five hundred meters away already. Although we didn''t kill anyone, there will be trouble if the constables arrive. Let''s take action quickly and leave as soon as possible."


    "Alright, join forces with me and take down that punk who''s trying to act mysterious," replied the Guihai Cheng with a voice transmission.


    The two attacked nearly simultaneously.


    Guihai Cheng flicked his sleeve.


    Boom!


    A flame flew out and engulfed Qin Yun. Standing beside him, Li Yuqing''s expression changed drastically. "Brother Yun, leave quickly!"


    Meanwhile, an azure-robed guard instantly sent three emerald-green needles at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun chuckled as the speed of the flame and emerald-green needles decreased. When they came in front of Qin Yun, the flame froze in midair. Similarly, the three emerald-green needles remained motionless.


    This scene left many agape with astonishment.


    "The flame came to a halt? Even the needles too? They aren''t falling to the ground?" The guards were dumbfounded.


    Li Yuqing was astonished as well.


    Guihai Cheng and the azure-robed guard had a drastic change in expression.


    "Phew."


    Qin Yun exhaled lightly and the flame that was floating in front of him was directly extinguished. He then turned to look at the floating needles. Just a look at the needles caused them to disintegrate and scatter as dust.


    Guihai Cheng and the azure-robed guard could not help but gulp. They felt their throats dry as their legs went limp.


    "My Dharma artifact turned to dust with a look?" The azure-robed guard felt cold sweat breaking out all over his body. Horror left him stifled.


    Plomp.


    Guihai Cheng immediately knelt down. "Senior, spare me! Spare me! I, Guihai Cheng, have offended you. Senior, I was ignorant. Senior, please spare me."


    The azure-robed guard knelt down as well. "Senior, I was just following orders. Senior, please spare me."


    The duo was knowledgeable. They knew that the scene they had just witnessed was exceedingly terrifying! It was absolutely only made possible by fearsome legendary cultivators.


    "Brother Yun, this is¡­" Li Yuqing was staring at him, tongue-tied. However, she was overjoyed as well. She felt her head buzzing but she knew one thing. She was saved! Her daughter was saved! They did not need to die!


    "I''m a son of the Guihai family. My name is Guihai Cheng. Senior, please spare me," pleaded the youth with the triangular eyes.


    Qin Yun said indifferently, "Southbright County''s Guihai family? It doesn¡¯t mean much in front of me. As for how you will be punished, I will let Sis Yuqing decide that! Sis Yuqing, feel free to tell me if Guihai Cheng and these guards did anything to you. None of them will escape."


    Li Yuqing clenched her teeth and pointed to three guards. "Those three. However, Brother Yun, I only care that Lianlian and I managed to survive. There''s no need to get into a fight."


    "You feel soft-hearted for them, but they are very ruthless to you," quipped Qin Yun.


    Phew.


    At that moment, the constables rushed in from afar. The one leading them was a silver-badge constable.


    "What is going on here?" The silver-badge constable bellowed the moment he arrived.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and produced the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    When the silver-badge constable saw the token, his expression changed drastically to one of fright. He immediately greeted respectfully, "Greetings, Inspector Heavenly Ambassador."

 139 The Day of the Immortal Abodes Opening

    Chapter 139: The Day of the Immortal Abode''s Opening


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?" Guihai Cheng and the azured-clothed guard, who were both kneeling on the ground, turned pale in the face.


    "He''s actually an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. That¡­ That¡­" The two of them were cultivators, so they naturally knew what it meant to be an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador! The patriarchs of many second-tier cultivators sects were unqualified to be Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. Very few could become one in the Jiang Prefecture.


    As for Li Yuqing, who was carrying her daughter on her back, she was looking at Qin Yun in a daze.


    She was once the daughter of an official''s family. She naturally knew of Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors.


    "It''s only been eight years and Brother Yun has become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?" Li Yuqing found it unbelievable.


    The youth that was obsessed with practicing his swordplay at Western Mountain Sword Garden was already an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, if there are any instructions for a lowly official like me, I will definitely do my utmost best." The silver-badge constable added politely. The constables behind him also bent their backs.


    Qin Yun nodded. "The people here are from the Guihai family of Southbright County. I''ll be taking five of them with me. Send the rest of them back to Six Fans Gate and question them properly. After the investigations are done, send a letter to inform the Southbright County''s Guihai family, as well as a letter to Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor."


    "Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor?" The silver-badge constable immediately understood. He bowed again, "Yes, I understand."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor? He''s Qin Yun?" Guihai Cheng''s lips were already trembling.


    "I heard he killed the three demon monarchs from Evil Dragon Mountain last year. The leader of the trio, Flood Dragon King, had once fought a Connate Golden Core expert head on but eventually escaped with his life. Yet, he eventually died under Qin Yun''s hand. Not one of the three demon monarchs survived." The azure-robed guard sent a voice transmission. "My master mentioned that this Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun is unfathomable in strength. He''s probably the strongest Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador in Jiang Prefecture."


    "Cut it out. Do you think I''m not aware of that? Now, we need to think of a way to survive." Guihai Cheng said anxiously with a voice transmission.


    "The Guihai family is nothing worth mentioning in front of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun. To survive, it will depend on that young widow," said the azure-robed guard with a voice transmission. "If that young widow were to put in a few good words for us, we might be able to live on."


    "She? Helping us?" Guihai Cheng anxiously thought of solutions.


    At that moment, Qin Yun said to Li Yuqing, "Sis Yuqing. If you don''t have a place to call home, why don''t you follow me to Grand Dominance? There are many of your friends in Grand Dominance."


    Li Yuqing nodded with brimming tears. "Yes, to Grand Dominance. I''ve been on the run, hoping to escape back to Grand Dominance. Only in Grand Dominance do I have the most friends I can deem as sisters and brothers."


    "Haha. Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun swept his gaze past the duo as well as the three guards that Li Yuqing had pointed out.


    "Immobilize!"


    Qin Yun said softly.


    The Heaven and Earth powers instantly surged into the five people''s bodies under the Dharmic powers guidance. Like invisible chains, they were completely trapped. None of the five could move.


    The Dharma spell¡ªImmobilizing Spell!


    One had to reach the Connate realm and attain Heaven Man Unity before one could cast it.


    "Phew." Qin Yun immediately used his flying art and a cloud rose. The five were also thrown onto the clouds.


    "Sis Yuqing, let''s go." Qin Yun led Li Yuqing and the five as they departed rapidly on the cloud.


    "Immortal."


    "There is an immortal!"


    The passers-by from afar were excited as they looked up to see Qin Yun and company leaving on a cloud.


    Only then did the silver-badge constable stand up. He immediately shouted clearly. "Quick, apprehend all these people from the Guihai family and throw them into the dungeons. All of them will be interrogated."


    "Yes!" The constables immediately went forward to apprehend them.


    None of the guards dared to resist.


    If this were any other time, a silver-badge constable would let the matter rest considering the Southbright County''s Guihai family''s reputation. However, since Qin Yun had spoken, the silver-badge constable naturally had to be impartial!


    "I''ll report this to Lord County Governor immediately," thought the silver-badge constable.


    ******


    After leaving Vessel Altar County City, they headed straight for Grand Dominance.


    On the cloud.


    The five men were shuddering with fear. However, with an Immobilizing Spell on them, none of them could move.


    Li Yuqing carried her daughter and looked somewhat nervously down the clouds. She commented, "Brother Yun, you were the best among our group at Western Mountain Sword Garden. You attained one with the sword at thirteen and you were the best in Grand Dominance County''s youngest generation at fifteen. After eight years, you are already an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, a legend among cultivators."


    "You didn''t hear of me becoming an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?" Qin Yun asked. "The Guihai family is also a large family clan."


    "Never heard of it."


    Li Yuqing shook her head gently. "After I married into the Guihai family, I never left the manor or even step out of the compounds. I spent nearly all my time in the inner compound! Furthermore, my husband was not feeling well and he seldom left the manor. As such, I spent all my time accompanying my husband in the inner compound. Sometimes, I might converse with Sister Xing''er and a few old and young maids. How would I know anything about what was happening outside, much less know about someone becoming Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?"


    "What about your father?" asked Qin Yun. "He just watched you get bullied by the Guihai family?"


    "My father had led the troops to fight demons and was killed by them." Li Yuqing''s eyes were brimming with tears.


    Qin Yun sighed lightly.


    The government''s troops dealt with demons but they similarly could perish.


    "My father had passed away. And when my husband died of his illness, I no longer had anyone to rely on. Perhaps I gave birth to a daughter, so the Guihai family didn''t care about me at all." Li Yuqing looked at her daughter in her arms. "If not for Lianlian, I''d would have long committed suicide to accompany my husband in death."


    "What''s the matter with the five of them?" asked Qin Yun.


    Guihai Cheng and company looked at Li Yuqing with pleading expressions.


    However, she clenched her teeth as she glared at the five with tears welling up in her eyes. "After my husband died, this Guihai Cheng showed me great concern and took rather good care of me. I thought he was a kind person since he was my husband''s elder brother! Who knew that he was a wolf with a savage heart. He machinated against me time and time again. Sister Xing''er that joined the family with my marriage was raped by them and eventually killed. If I had not been accomplished in Qi Refinement, I would have probably been raped by them. After they drugged me, I escaped with great difficulty using my sword arts. I knew that if I continued staying in the manor, I would definitely not be able to escape their evil claws. Therefore, I escaped with my daughter. We headed north all the way, hoping to escape back to Grand Dominance."


    Qin Yun nodded. "The three guards you pointed out?"


    "Yes, the three of them. They are the underlings of Guihai Cheng. The three of them have committed the most atrocities. Sister Xing''er was raped to her death by the three of them," said Li Yuqing.


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    The three guards revealed a pleading expression of horror.


    Qin Yun glanced at them.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The trio immediately turned to dust and vanished from the world.


    The sword intent domain was excellent at destroying a corpse completely.


    The youth with the triangular eyes, Guihai Cheng, and the azure-clothed guard were frightened out of their wits.


    "The three of them turned to dust and just vanished?"


    "Would he deal with us like that as well?" The two of them were horrified with unease.


    Li Yuqing was somewhat astonished as she said solemnly, "Sister Xing''er, if you can see this in heaven, I hope you rest in peace. These three vile men have gotten their retribution." She was also considered quite a tolerant person. The three guards were Guihai Cheng''s underlings she hated the most.


    "For the three underlings to be this ruthless, Guihai Cheng must be the mastermind behind this, right?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, he¡­ He is, after all, a cultivator from the Guihai family." Li Yuqing could not help but say.


    "It''s because you are too tolerant." Qin Yun shook his head. "However, there''s no rush in killing the two of them. When the people from the Guihai family comes, we''ll have a good chat with them. Is this how they bully a daughter-in-law of the Guihai family?"


    Li Yuqing whispered, "The Guihai family might not think too much of me either."


    "Regardless, the Guihai family still needs to give an explanation," said Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Back in Grand Dominance County City, they entered Qin Manor.


    "Men, throw these two into the dungeons." Qin Yun ordered his servants. The both of them had been sealed off their strength.


    "Yes."


    There were already a lot of servants and guards in Qin Manor. Guihai Cheng and his guard were quickly escorted to the dungeons.


    "Sis Yuqing, be at ease and live here," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Li Yuqing hugged her daughter and only felt at ease. She had been living the past few days in horror. Now, she could finally calm her mind.


    "Yun-er."


    Changlan walked over from a distant corridor. When she saw Li Yuqing, she said with a smile, "Is this your friend?"


    "Mother, do you not know her? She''s Sis Yuqing from Lord Li''s family," said Qin Yun.


    "Miss Yuqing?" Changlan was astonished as well. The woman in commoner garb was carrying a daughter and that stood in stark contrast to the heroic young girl from her memories. However, she could still identify her from her looks.


    Li Yuqing immediately said softly, "Madam, greetings. I''m Yuqing."


    "How''s your father now?" Changlan asked out of curiosity.


    "My father was killed by demons while leading troops to deal with them," said Li Yuqing softly.


    Changlan was taken aback.


    "Mother, help her settle down. Let Sis Yuqing stay in my Qin Manor for now," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll settle it." Changlan looked at Yuqing with a pained heart. Immediately, she accompanied Yuqing in conversation.


    ¡­


    After understanding the situation, be it Qin Liehu, who had ties with Lord Li, or the kindhearted Changlan, they were furious over the actions of the Guihai family. They also pitied Li Yuqing greatly.


    Early the next morning.


    Qin Yun was practicing his flying sword arts in his compound.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was a little astonished as he flipped his hand to produce the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Buzz.


    A phantom projection appeared beside it in midair. It was Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "Senior Essence Charm," greeted Qin Yun.


    "Qin Yun, my friend," Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile. "After returning to the Scenic Mountain Sect yesterday, we quickly discussed the matter internally and communicated with the other five parties that possess a token. The date for entering the Scenic Yang Cave Abode has been decided."


    "It only took a day to determine it? That sure is fast." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he said with a smile.


    "My Scenic Mountain Sect has been waiting for this day for too long." Palatial Lord Essence Charm smiled. "The date is fixed to be 12th June. Gather at my Scenic Mountain Sect before noon, alright?"


    Qin Yun smiled and nodded. "Alright, I''ll definitely be there before noon on the 12th of June."

 140 Yi Xiao Exits Seclusion

    Chapter 140: Yi Xiao Exits Seclusion


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yue Prefecture, in the southern domain of the region. There were many tribes but there was also an ancient sword immortal sect, ''Yue Chapter''. Similarly, it was ranked as one of the top cultivation sects in the world.


    Compared to the might of the Shu Prefecture''s Sword Tower, the Yue Chapter was slightly weaker and it also kept a much lower profile.


    In ancient times, the Yue Chapter was once extremely famous. It was the leader of all sword cultivators in the world. However, as time passed, there were several sword immortal sects that prospered and declined. Although the Yue Chapter managed to last till the present day, it was only considered ordinary among all the top cultivation sects in the world.


    The sky was still dim.


    In Yue Chapter, there was an elder sitting cross-legged on a mat in White Ape Cave. Suddenly, he opened his eyes and looked into the distance.


    There, a middle-aged man was approaching under the guidance of a Yue Chapter disciple.


    "Master is cultivating in White Ape Cave," the disciple that attended to the middle-aged man said with a smile.


    The middle-aged man nodded slightly and looked at the land around him. There were many Yue Chapter disciples practicing their swordplay while facing the morning sun. All of them were cultivating with utmost dedication. Regardless, being able to become a sword immortal of the Yue Chapter was the dreams of countless, at least in Yue Prefecture.


    After walking for some time, the middle-aged man came in front of White Ape Cave. It was a huge cavern and very simple. The inside of the cave was covered with sword scars.


    "Brother Fang, come on in." A voice was heard coming from within.


    The middle-aged man entered.


    "Deacon Yuan." The middle-aged man cupped his hands before crossing his legs to sit on another mat. "I''m curious, Deacon Yuan. Why did you summon me so urgently?"


    The middle-aged man was rather respectful to the other person. The elder was the Yue Chapter''s incumbent ''Deacon Yuan''. His ordinary name was Wanmao. The Yue Chapter had a Deacon Yuan every generation and its status was not at all inferior to the Yue Chapter''s sect master.


    "Brother Fang," Deacon Yuan said with a smile. "Do you still remember the matter about the Scenic Yang Cave Abode I mentioned to you some time ago?"


    "Scenic Mountain Sect''s Scenic Yang Cave Abode? Of course! Deacon Yuan, you mentioned that one of the tokens to the Scenic Yang Cave Abode is with you. If one day the cave is opened¡­ you would invite me to accompany you?" The middle-aged man''s eyes lit up. "Why, is it about to be opened?"


    Deacon Yuan nodded slightly. "The Scenic Mountain Sect has found the sixth token. Soon, the Scenic Yang Cave Abode will be opened. Brother Fang, do you still wish to enter with me?"


    "I couldn''t wish for anything better!" The middle-aged man said delightedly. "With Deacon Yuan accompanying me, what''s there to be afraid of? In addition, by joining forces with Deacon Yuan, considering my skill in array formations, we will definitely obtain many treasures. As for the splitting of treasures, we shall do it as you mentioned. Eighty for you, twenty for me! And all treasures related to sword immortals will be yours."


    "Yea." Deacon Yuan nodded with a smile. "Brother Fang''s skills in array formations are the best in Yue Prefecture! With you helping me, I''m also confident of obtaining the flying sword, White Dew."


    "Haha, I''ll be congratulating you ahead of time then. When you obtain White Dew, combined with the flying sword, Azure Water, of your Yue Chapter, the two swords of white and azure¡­combined would be able to match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure," praised the middle-aged man.


    Deacon Yuan nodded slightly.


    White Dew and Azure Water were first-grade Dharma treasures. They were flying swords that were handed down since ancient times in the Yue Chapter.


    However, White Dew ended up being lost. It landed in the hands of fiendish demons and after exchanging hands several times, it found itself in the hands of Perfected Scenic Yang whose Scenic Mountain Sect was a Daoist sacred land of that time. Back then, Perfected Scenic Yang was the leader of the Daoist movement and there had been some conflict between the Yue Chapter and the Scenic Mountain Sect. Perfected Scenic Yang even angrily placed White Dew in his own Scenic Yang Cave Abode, causing the Yue Chapter''s white and azure-colored swords to be separated for thousands of years.


    "Brother Fang, go make your preparations. Come to me again on 11th of June," said Deacon Yuan.


    "Alright. I''ll make my preparations on my side." The middle-aged man got up immediately. "I''ll bid you farewell."


    "Jing''er, send your Uncle-Master Fang off," instructed Deacon Yuan.


    The attendant disciple outside the cave warmly led the middle-aged man away.


    The middle-aged man was feeling an upheaval of emotions. He was secretly excited. "That is a cave abode of an Essence Soul immortal. Furthermore, he was the leader of the Daoist movement of that era. The Yue Chapter might be powerful, but it is only a sword immortal sect. No true Essence Soul immortal has ever been produced! In terms of heritage, it''s far weaker than the Scenic Mountain Sect. However, Deacon Yuan''s flying sword arts are indeed impressive. By entering with him, it will be an unprecedented opportunity for me¡­even if I was allocated twenty percent of the treasures."


    "I have to make sufficient preparations and be careful of Deacon Yuan going back on his word." The middle-aged man secretly made his plans.


    He, Fang Yu, was at the Connate True Core realm and he was also an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    However, his array formation arts were extremely brilliant! He could instantly set up an array formation that even a Connate Golden Core realm expert would not be able to break free in a short amount of time. He dared to call himself the best in array formation arts in the Yue Prefecture! This was the reason why Deacon Yuan had invited him.


    And at that moment, inside White Ape Cave.


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode," Deacon Yuan thought to himself. "All these years, the six tokens have never been gathered. However, the allure Scenic Yang Cave Abode has is too great. There were cultivators that were close to their deaths who would forcefully probe it. However, none of them walked out alive after barging in! In addition, the treasures on them end up being lost inside Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    Those without a token could forcefully enter but none of them managed to come out again.


    Although the Yue Chapter had always wished to obtain the flying sword, White Dew, the most. They did not take the risk. Only cultivators that were close to their end would take such risks.


    "My Yue Chapter has been investigating Elder Sword. According to the records he left his juniors, he eventually went to Scenic Yang Cave Abode." Deacon Yuan thought to himself. "Elder Sword is a senior expert that managed to gain insights into the Sword Dao. He had been hard at work to create a cultivation formulation that would allow sword immortals to enter the Essence Soul immortal realm. Although he had left behind many treasures to his descendants, his entry into the Scenic Yang Cave Abode¡­ means he must have brought his Intrinsic Flying Sword along with him, even if the other treasures are ignored."


    "As for that Numinous treasures and transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, there is no need to vie for them. But White Dew and the belongings of Elder Sword must be obtained." Deacon Yuan''s ambitions weren''t that high. He also knew that even if could get his hands on the Numinous treasure, the Yue Chapter had no means to hold onto it.


    ¡­


    Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. Qin Manor''s entrance.


    "Sister Yuqing, you don''t have to send us off."


    "Sister Yuqing, we''ll come find you again in two days." Two women dressed in dignified and elegant clothes bade Li Yuqing farewell.


    Li Yuqing also bade them farewell with a smile.


    After being on the run for so long, she was also very happy to chat with her best friends from her childhood.


    "Sister Daiqing, join me on my carriage. At least I''ll have a companion on the road." Two noblewomen immediately boarded a carriage and soon, their servants and guards led the carriage away.


    Li Yuqing watched it go far away before turning around to leave.


    In the carriage.


    The two young beautiful noblewomen began whispering in gossip.


    "Sister Yuqing spent her time with swords in her youth but she still didn''t marry someone better than us." One of the noblewomen chuckled softly and said, "She married a sickly invalid and was bullied by the Guihai family. If not for Second Young Master Qin helping her, who knows what state she would be in now."


    "In the past, she acted rather haughty in front of us. Now?" The other noblewoman said as she laughed while covering her mouth. "Of course. There are benefits to spending her time with swords. Don''t you see? Look at how skilled she is at clinging to Second Young Master Qin!"


    "She actually caught Second Young Master Qin''s eye?"


    "Don''t say that. Now that she''s staying in Qin Manor, who knows when she might become a concubine of Second Young Master Qin."


    "The Qin Manor will want her with that baggage of hers?I refuse to believe it!"


    "Second Young Master Qin is one of those immortals. He doesn''t care for mortals rules. Besides, they had a friendship in their youth so it''s hard to tell. Very hard to tell."


    "Indeed, it''s really hard to tell."


    The two young noblewomen gossiped. They couldn''t be bothered to show such enthusiasm if not for Qin Manor.


    ¡­


    Po Prefecture, Divine Firmament Chapter. Lightning Pool.


    The Lightning Pool was within a mountain which directed lightning from the world into the Lightning Pool.


    "Boom!" The mountain entrance opened loudly.


    Five cultivators of all ages and genders walked out. Other than one of them being responsible for protecting the other four disciples, the other four were rather young disciples of the Divine Firmament Chapter. None of them reached a hundred years in age. Yi Xiao and Xue Yong were among them. It was the first time Yi Xiao was qualified to enter the Lightning Pool. She had no chance of doing so in other years! Those that could enter the Lightning Pool were the absolute elites of the Divine Firmament Chapter. They were genius disciples that the Divine Firmament Chapter was certain would have a chance of entering the Connate Golden Core realm.


    Among the four, Eldest Senior Brother Xue Yong and the Divine Firmament Zhang family''s Zhang Wuling were at the Connate True Core realm. They had also grasped the charm of the Heavenly Dao!


    "Junior Sister Yi Xiao, congratulations."


    "Junior Sister Yi Xiao, I''m truly envious of you grasping the Heavenly Dao''s charms at such a young age." Among a bunch of Divine Firmament Chapter disciples that were waiting outside the Lightning Pool, many of them were congratulating Yi Xiao.


    Even Yi Xiao''s elders were smiling at her.


    "Although there was a tiny mishap which caused the divine lightning to surge through your body, you managed to emerge safely. Not only did you absorb the divine lightning, you even gained insight into the Lightning Concept." A Daoist-robed woman smiled at Yi Xiao.


    "Master, I was lucky too. I had risked it all when the divine lightning struck me. I forcefully directed it into my organs," said Yi Xiao. "Thankfully, I absorbed it successfully."


    "It''s because you have a robust foundation," said the Daoist-robed woman. "Alright, go back and have a rest. It must have been tiring on you for the past three months."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    Yi Xiao quickly returned to her residence but before she sat down to rest, she sensed a fluctuation coming from her communication treasure.


    "Oh?"


    Yi Xiao flipped her hand and took out a Divine Firmament token.


    Buzz.


    A middle-aged man''s projection appeared in midair.


    "Patriarch." When Yi Xiao saw this, she immediately bowed.


    The middle-aged man was the Yi family''s patriarch. He was a famous and terrifying powerhouse in the world.


    "Yi Xiao," said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "I long heard that you had grasped the Lightning Concept while cultivating in the Lightning Pool?"


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Alright. Your Divine Lightning of Connate Breath should have reached perfection, right?" asked Patriarch Yi.


    "It has reached perfection," replied Yi Xiao respectfully.


    "I''ll get someone to teach you the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma." Patriarch Yi nodded. "Then, I''ll bestow you with a fourth-grade Divine Firmament talisman amulet."


    Patriarch Yi and the Divine Firmament Chapter had close relations. It could be considered as them sharing the same roots. Typically, the cultivation of Yi family children would be done in the Divine Firmament Chapter. Patriarch Yi''s arrangement of someone to teach her the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma was naturally genuine.


    "Divine Firmament talisman amulet?" Yi Xiao was astonished. A fourth-grade Divine Firmament talisman amulet¡­ was not inferior in value to a third-grade Dharma treasure.


    "Yes. Cultivate well and be prepared. A month later, I''ll arrange for you and your second uncle to do a very important task," Patriarch Yi said with a smile. "It can also be considered as a tiny challenge for you." After learning that Yi Xiao had grasped the Lightning Concept, Patriarch Yi clearly began to nurture her as best as he could.


    "Important task?" Yi Xiao was perplexed.


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode will be opened in a month¡¯s time. My Yi family will arrange for two people to enter. You can enter with your second uncle," said Patriarch Yi.

 141 Touching Pitch

    Chapter 141: Touching Pitch


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao was somewhat astounded. "Patriarch, I can enter the Scenic Yang Cave Abode as well? I''m afraid I¡­"


    "It''s just a little challenge for you. Whatever treasures you obtain will be up to fate." Patriarch Yi instructed with a faint smile.


    "Yes." Yi Xiao immediately accepted the order.


    "This is some of the information regarding Scenic Yang Cave Abode." The Divine Firmament token in Yi Xiao''s hand suffused dense lines of text before the communication was severed.


    Yi Xiao looked down and read the text and felt somewhat hesitant. "We''ll be entering on 12th June? And this month, my seniors still need to teach me the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma and I''ll have to gradually cultivate my Lightning Dharma. I might not have the time to go to Grand Dominance."


    Following that, she had a thought.


    "Weng!"


    A phantom projection floated in midair. It was Qin Yun''s figure.


    "Yi Xiao." Qin Yun looked delighted. "You are out of your seclusion?"


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded slightly as she gave a faint smile.


    On the other side.


    In Qin Manor''s compound, Qin Yun was looking at Yi Xiao''s figure that appeared beside the Inspect Heavenly Token. He felt his heart turn warm from seeing her smile.


    "How was the seclusion in the Lightning Pool?" asked Qin Yun.


    "There was really some minor trouble." Yi Xiao could not help but say, "The Lightning Pool triggers lightning from the heaven and earth after all. The heaven and earth lightning are at times powerful and at times weak. It''s impossible to control the intensity like how cultivators do it. While I was cultivating¡­ there was a boom from spring lightning. It was extremely terrifying in might, a rare sight that is seen once in many years. Furthermore, the spring lightning happened to be in the vicinity of the Lightning Pool. It was pulled in and there were four juniors cultivating inside. I was the weakest and was unable to insulate myself from the divine lightning''s effects, causing the divine lightning to surge through my body."


    Qin Yun''s heart tightened.


    Despite knowing that Yi Xiao was completely fine, he still felt worried when he heard her recount.


    "Thankfully, the Lightning Pool itself has many array formations directing it. Even if I failed to resist it, I would at most be heavily injured and have my foundations damaged. I wouldn''t have lost my life," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "I refused to back down and since the divine lightning was in me, I decided to risk it and lead the divine lightning into my Five Organs, hoping to absorb it. It was indeed a perilous situation¡­ I also personally experienced the horror of the heaven and earth lightning. But it also gave me inspiration towards the Lightning Concept. I also successfully absorbed the divine lightning and now, my Divine Lightning of Connate Breath is perfected. The sect will soon teach me the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma."


    After he heard that, Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief and beamed. "It was truly a silver lining. You are already cultivating the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. That is the best Lightning Dharma in the world."


    In terms of her cultivation, Yi Xiao''s path was a lot wider.


    The Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma was considered the best Lightning Dharma. The cultivation path was clear and with that, she could eventually condense her Essence Soul and become an immortal, having everlasting youth.


    As for the sword immortal lineage, they were capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. It might seem powerful but they would peak at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "There is something I have to tell you," whispered Yi Xiao. "I won''t be able to go to Grand Dominance in the near future."


    "Why?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "Is there something?"


    They had previously agreed to reunite in Grand Dominance after she came out of seclusion.


    "In the short term, I''ll have to cultivate the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. Furthermore, I''ll be going to the Scenic Yang Cave Abode a month later," whispered Yi Xiao. "It''s an order from my Yi family''s patriarch. I cannot disobey the order."


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode?" Qin Yun was astonished as he blinked his eyes.


    "What''s that look of yours?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask. "You aren''t worried about me or puzzled. Instead, you look silly."


    "I was about to tell you something too." Qin Yun could not help but laugh. "A month later, Hong Lingtong and I will be entering Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    "Ah¡­" Yi Xiao was also a little dumbfounded.


    "This is what happened." Qin Yun explained in detail. There was also no need to conceal the matter from her.


    After chatting for a while.


    "I never imagined such a coincidence." Yi Xiao smiled.


    "I heard that the six tokens belong to different parties, and three of them belong to thousand-year-old family clans," said Qin Yun. "Thankfully it''s the Yi family and not the Zhongli family. If not, there will be some trouble."


    Yi Xiao smiled and said immediately, "You have to be careful. From what I''ve heard, out of the six parties, your side is the weakest."


    "What do you mean weak? In actual fact, I can match a Connate Golden Core realm," said Qin Yun.


    "At least on the surface, your side appears the weakest," Yi Xiao said with a smile. Following that, she warned him. "You still have to be careful. It has to be kept a secret before entering the Scenic Yang Cave Abode. Even if you obtain any treasures inside, make sure no one notices it and that you do not make it public. According to what I know, there are many treasures in there¡­that Essence Soul immortals covet greatly. Not only is it us humans. Fiendish demons might not be able to enter but after we are out, there is a chance for them to rob us."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. He was very happy that Yi Xiao showed him concern. "Then, cultivate well. Increase your strength more so that it will be safer when you enter the Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    "Great! By the way, tell me what you have been doing for the past few months while I wasn''t in Grand Dominance."


    "Me? Alright, I''ll tell you one by one¡­"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at each other''s projections as they chatted through their communication treasures.


    ******


    Southbright County, the Guihai family''s only Connate realm cultivator, Guihai Jing, had returned from the South Sea. He was sitting in a hall''s seat of honor with a gloomy expression. All of the other elders of the Guihai family were standing and none dared to make a sound.


    "Fools! A bunch of fools!" Guihai Jing scanned the elders in front of him.


    The elders'' expressions changed slightly.


    "Third Brother¡­" One of the elders could not help but mutter.


    "Shut up." Guihai Jing bellowed. "I gave all of you face in the past, but you have disappointed me just too much."


    The elders immediately shut their mouths as they could sense Guihai Jing''s fury.


    "I have been dedicating myself to cultivating in the South Sea. The entire Guihai family was left to all of you to manage. How did you manage it? All you did was cause such a huge problem for me! Also, the officials sent a letter to our Guihai family. And you know it involves Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun, yet you did not try your very best to find me quickly? It dragged all the way till today?" Guihai Jing was infuriated.


    "Third Brother, we searched for you. You were in the South Sea so it took us some time to find you," said an elder.


    "Fools! All of you are truly fools. I was cultivating arduously in the South Sea, so if you can''t find me, just go straight to my fellow disciples or find my master. Let them send a message to me. Wouldn''t that have worked?" Guihai Jing was incensed. "I only learned of it eleven days after the letter from the officials reached us! And that Guihai Cheng¡­ there are so many women in this world but he actually targeted his sister-in-law? Ah? Wouldn''t it be a disgrace to our Guihai family if it spreads out?"


    A fat old man said, "Third Brother, Cheng''er is one of the few children of our Guihai family that has managed to knock open the gate of immortality. Besides, that Li Yuqing is only a woman. We thought nothing of it."


    "Thought nothing of it!? But she''s a good friend of Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun!" Guihai Jing was flaring with anger. "Do you know that the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain died under his hand? Not a single one of them escaped. A puny person like me will not even be able to survive one strike from Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin Yun. Thankfully, he is not a merciless person. If we were to truly meet the people that show no mercy, our Guihai family will be doomed. Doomed, do you understand?"


    None of the Guihai family elders dared to make a sound.


    "Take that fool, Guihai Cheng, for example. There are only a handful of people who have knocked open the gate of immortality in our Guihai family; yet, he did not focus on his cultivation? Instead, he is promiscuous and even targeted his sister-in-law. How do you teach the juniors? It looks like it was also my fault for not handling these affairs. This time, I''ll be ensuring that the family is run properly." Guihai Jing was indeed hopping mad with anger.


    "What about the Li family?" shouted Guihai Jing.


    "We have invited the members of the Li family to our residence. They have been settled in and we have already made compensation." An elder answered immediately.


    "Alright, I''ll meet them now." Guihai Jing stood up.


    ¡­


    On the day Guihai Jing returned to his family clan, he visited the Li family personally and sent many generous gifts.


    At noon, he brought the Li family along with him and departed Southbright County. As he had to bring a group of people while engaging in long-distance flight, his speed wasn''t fast. It was only late at night before he arrived in Grand Dominance County!


    The next day at noon.


    He brought the Li family members with him to pay Qin Manor a visit.


    "Mother! Brother!" Li Yuqing rushed to the entrance of Qin Manor and saw her mother and brother. Immediately, she leaped into her mother''s embrace and began crying. She had not been able to confide in the hardship she had gone through all this time. Her tears could not help but flow when she saw her family.


    "Yuqing," Guihai Jing, who was standing by the side, said with a sigh, "It''s all because of my lack of discipline. Actually, among the young generation of my Guihai family, Xiaogong was the most intelligent one. Unfortunately, he had a poor fate. He passed away early from his illness. Regardless, you are a daughter-in-law of my Guihai family. On this matter, the Guihai family has done you wrong. I will naturally answer to you and wish that you will not bear a grudge."


    Li Yuqing did not say a word.


    "My master has been waiting for you. Please." A cultivator, Chu Yuan, came personally to escort them.


    Guihai Jing led his subordinates with a solemn expression.


    Soon.


    Qin Manor. A grand hall for welcoming guests.


    Qin Yun was sitting in the seat of honor.


    Beneath him knelt Guihai Cheng and the azure-robed guard. They were both terrified.


    "Master, the Guihai family is here." Chu Yuan led the people to the hall and immediately stood aside to await orders.


    Guihai Jing instantly saw a youth sitting in the hall. Following that, he walked straight in and sensed an invisible pressure bearing down on him. His skin felt like it was being pricked by needles as he bowed immediately. "Greetings Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin, I''m Guihai Jing, a disciple of the South Sea''s Illumination Sect."


    "Third Uncle, save me! Save me!" Guihai Cheng pleaded softly.


    However, Guihai Jing glared at Guihai Cheng angrily.


    "Fellow Daoist Guihai," Qin Yun said casually. "If I had not passed by Vessel Altar County, my Sis Yuqing and her daughter might have perished."


    "Yes, the officials have sent me a letter and I already know the situation." Guihai Jing nodded. "It''s all because I have been out cultivating and did not tend to the internal affairs of my family clan. It allowed the young ones of the family clan to act in such an unbridled manner."


    Guihai Jing walked toward Guihai Cheng and said coldly, "Cheng''er, I was happy for you when you knocked open the gate of immortality. However, I never imagined that you did not focus your mind on cultivation. Instead, you were a curse on women. You even extended your curse onto your own sister-in-law. It hasn''t been long since Xiaogong passed away, so how can you be this ruthless? Fiendish thoughts have plagued your mind. The stronger you are, the more you will be a scourge. Forget it. I''ll send you myself. Don''t blame your third uncle, me, for being ruthless while in the netherworld."


    Guihai Cheng widened his eyes. "Third Uncle, you want to kill me?"


    Qin Yun simply watched by the side.


    "Touch pitch and you shall be defiled," Guihai Jing said. "You have touched too much pitch!"


    "Don''t kill me! Third Uncle, don''t kill me!" Guihai Cheng pleaded. "I''ll change. I''ll change!"


    "The wages of sin is death." Guihai Jing shook his head and smacked down with his palm. Invisible Quintessential Essence struck Guihai Cheng''s forehead as his body quivered. Blood flowed out his nose before he slumped to the ground.


    "As for you." Guihai Jing looked at the azure-robed guard who was seized with terror and anxiety. Even a son of the Guihai family was killed, so what would happen to him?


    "You are Cheng''er''s guard. You have not done anything evil but you did not advise Cheng''er. You shall experience the pain of having your meridians sealed for three years. I''ll unlock them three years later." Guihai Jing tapped in the air as a charmed rune flew out and entered the azure-robed guard''s body. Instantly, his face turned red from pain but he immediately kowtowed respectfully, "Thank you for sparing me, Lord."


    Just experiencing three years of pain, without the maiming of his dantian was enough to delight the azure-robed guard. However, there was no way he could escape from the three years of torment.


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin, I have been spending all my time cultivating in the South Sea. I did not know any of this. In the future, I will definitely make it up to the Li family and to Li Yuqing," said Guihai Jing.


    Qin Yun looked at Guihai Jing and nodded. "In the cultivation world, your reputation isn''t bad. What follows will depend on how your Guihai family treats Sis Yuqing."


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin, feel free to watch over the matter," Guihai Jing said with a smile. "By the way, this is my first time meeting Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin. I prepared some simple gifts that I hope you would not look at with disdain."


    "If there''s nothing else, I''ll bid you farewell," said Guihai Jing.


    "I won''t send you off," said Qin Yun.


    Guihai Jing bowed slightly as his subordinates standing beside him immediately carried Guihai Cheng''s corpse and left with him.


    Qin Yun watched him leave.


    "Master, are we letting Guihai Jing go just like that? Will he bear a grudge?" By the side, Chu Yuan asked under his breath.


    "I have done my investigations over the past few days. Guihai Jing''s character is still alright. He focuses on cultivation and doesn''t like to deal with mortal matters." Qin Yun nodded. "This matter is settled."


    If Guihai Jing had a bad reputation and was a lowlife as well, Qin Yun would not have easily spared him.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, it was 12th of June.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass as his flying sword circled around him in flight above his palm.


    "Second Young Master Qin. Young Master Hong is here." Ah Gui''s voice was heard from outside. Only some of the older members of Qin Manor were accustomed to addressing Qin Yun as Second Young Master.


    With a thought, Qin Yun sent the flying sword into his sleeve.


    The wooden door opened.


    Hong Lingtong, who was holding a wooden stave, looked extraordinary in bearing. He walked over with a smile and looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, it''s time we set off."


    Qin Yun nodded and got up. "Right, it''s time to set off."


    He had already made arrangements for the manor.


    "Let''s go. Onwards to Scenic Mountain Sect." Qin Yun led Hong Lingtong and with a whoosh, they transformed into a beam of light that tore through the air.

 142 Gathering of the Six Parties

    Chapter 142: Gathering of the Six Parties


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    While Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong headed for Scenic Mountain Sect, the other five parties that possessed tokens were on the way as well. Some of them had already arrived in Scenic Mountain Sect.


    On a cloud stood a stocky young man and a youth.


    The youth whose waist hung a saber was smiling.


    "Eighth Brother, I do not know anything about array formations. Seeing you eat and sleep before waking up to eat and then sleep every day, are you really that confident to handle the array formations set up by Immortal Scenic Yang? I have no idea what Patriarch is thinking to get me to go with you." The stocky man grumbled. "I think I would be more at ease if Second Grandpa was the one bringing me there."


    "Don''t you worry. Second Grandpa is inferior to me when it comes to array formations. Just listen to me and nothing will go wrong." The youth sat cross-legged on a cloud. He took out packaged desserts from the Cosmic Bag by his waist and began eating them. "Besides, Eldest Brother, your ''Primordial Chaos True Body'' has cultivated to the sixth level. Your body resembles a Dharma treasure, so why should you be afraid of danger?"


    "It''s better to be safe than sorry," grumbled the stocky young man immediately.


    The youth shot a glance at his eldest brother.


    Among the three Daoist sacred lands, the Primordial Chaos Sect followed the Physical Establishing Sage lineage. The eldest brother cultivated in the cornerstone Dharma formulation of the Primordial Chaos Sect, ''Primordial Chaos True Body''. He had also cultivated to the sixth level¡­ It could be said that in the entire world, be it the imperial government''s Godfiend lineage, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons''s fiendish body cultivation formulations or the Four Seas'' Dragon race''s cultivation formulation, his eldest brother definitely stood atop everyone at the Connate True Core realm when it came to the strength of his physique.


    "It''s just that you are too gutless," grumbled the youth. "Eldest Brother, on our expedition to Scenic Mountain Sect, there will be the royal family and other large family clans. Don''t you disgrace our Zhu family."


    "I''ll follow your every instruction," said the stocky young man.


    "Okay." The youth nodded.


    The Yuan Prefecture''s Zhu family was also a thousand-year-old family clan. It was one of the handfuls of large family clans. It was in no way weaker than the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family or the Kong Prefecture''s Zhongli family. It was even possible that they were stronger! The reason was that the Yuan Prefecture''s Zhu family was a lineage of the Primordial Chaos Sect, one of the three Daoist sacred lands. Just like how the Yi family and the Divine Firmament Chapter shared the same roots, the Yuan Prefecture''s Zhu family children would typically enter the Primordial Chaos Sect.


    Furthermore, the Zhu family children lived up to their expectations. Many of the Primordial Chaos Sect''s astoundingly mighty figures were from the Zhu family.


    It could be said that about thirty percent of the disciples of Primordial Chaos Sect came from the Zhu family!


    It had to be known that the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation was the strongest in the cultivation of one''s physique. It was more powerful than the Godfiend or Fiendcelestial lineages. The disciples from the Zhu family were also famous for their invulnerability.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere.


    Two women were traveling on a cloud. They were extremely beautiful but one of them leaned towards coldness while the other was a lot warmer.


    "Sister, I wonder who the other five parties are." A red-dressed woman said with a smile. "This time, our Bai family has to think of means to obtain the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet. Such a Numinous treasure would only be wasted if placed in the hands of the present Scenic Mountain Sect."


    "Yea." A white-dressed woman had a cold expression but she said with a nod, "Back then, Perfected Scenic Yang was truly impressive but now, the Scenic Mountain Sect is way weaker than in the past. They would not be able to utilize most of its strength even if the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet was given to them. In this world, the one who can control the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet the best should be our Third Patriarch. With you and me joining forces and the treasures bestowed upon us by Patriarch, there is a chance for us to obtain the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet."


    Filled with fighting spirit, the red-dressed woman nodded.


    The Bai family was the most ancient family clan in the world.


    Legend spoke of¡­ a time when the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure first preached the Dao on a nameless mountain, he handed down the Dao tradition, allowing Daoism to spread in this world. That nameless mountain then became Numinous Treasure Mountain. And the Bai family''s patriarch was one of those who had attended the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s teachings of the Dao. And despite a long time in between, the Bai family has been able to continue its lineage. It was the number one family in Numinous Treasure Mountain, the origins of Daoism.


    ******


    Grand Dominance County was rather close to Vessel Altar County. Furthermore, Qin Yun''s usage of Sword Kinesis Flight was a lot faster at present. In less than an hour, they arrived at the foot of Scenic Mountain Sect.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin," Daoist Yan flew over to welcome him warmly. "This must be fellow Daoist Hong Lingtong. To enter the Connate realm at such a young age, you truly make an old Daoist like me envious. People like us who have one foot in the coffin have one fewer day with each passing day."


    ''Isn''t the Scenic Yang Cave Abode opening? When the time comes, many manuals will be taken out. Fellow Daoist Yan, perhaps, you will have your strength improved, allowing you to enter the Connate Golden Core realm," said Qin Yun with a smile. "That way, you will have another two hundred years of lifespan."


    Daoist Yan laughed till his mouth slanted. "Haha, I''ll count on your blessings. Let''s go. I''ll bring you in. Among the six parties¡­ three have already arrived."


    "Okay." Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong were led into Scenic Mountain Sect.


    Scenic Mountain Sect was on high alert that day with numerous array formations activated.


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong did not dare move around recklessly.


    With Daoist Yan guiding the way, they soon came to an elegant garden. There were a few cultivators chatting idly in it.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun noticed an elder at a glance. Similarly, the elder was looking at him too.


    "This is the Yue Chapter''s incumbent Deacon Yuan." When Daoist Yan saw the situation, he immediately did the introductions. "Deacon Yuan, this is Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun."


    "Although I''m from the Yue Prefecture, I have heard of Qin Yun''s name. Despite being an itinerant cultivator without any sect, he managed to knock open the gate of immortality, and at such a young age¡­killed the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain. Impressive." Deacon Yuan said with a smile. A middle-aged man beside him cupped his hands slightly. "Greetings fellow Daoist Qin, I''m Fang Yu."


    When Qin Yun saw this, he immediately said, "Greetings Deacon Yuan and greetings fellow Daoist Fang. I''m Qin Yun."


    Hong Lingtong also went forward to bow.


    Both parties had a simple chat. Deacon Yuan and Qin Yun struck up a conversation pretty easily as both of them were sword immortals.


    "On this trip to Scenic Yang Cave Abode, it appears you and I are the only sword immortals," Deacon Yuan said with a smile. "When the time comes, we can join forces. After all, the array formations set up by Immortal Scenic Yang are extremely impressive. Even if everyone works together, it will probably be fraught with difficulties. If we were to engage in internal strife, things would become even more dangerous."


    "When the time comes, Deacon Yuan will be the one guiding juniors like us," said Qin Yun humbly.


    He could tell at a glance that there was more than one person at the Connate Golden Core realm present.


    As such, he naturally kept a low profile¡ªI''m a junior, I''m only an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador! By letting the other five parties lower their guard against him, it was possible that he might obtain even more treasures.


    After some chatting, Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong went to a corner to wait.


    "The Bai family is here. That is Numinous Treasure Mountain''s number one family clan, the world''s oldest family clan. It has also sent a Connate Golden Core cultivator." Hong Lingtong recognized the duo and said with a voice transmission, "A family clan has sent a Connate Golden Core to risk a trip into an immortal''s cave abode. The Bai family truly has deep roots."


    "People like Deacon Yuan are also at the Connate Golden Core realm."


    "Primordial Chaos Sect''s Zhu family have sent two at the Connate True Core realm. However, ignoring the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Eighth Zhu''s ability to forecast the past and future, just his skill in array formations is probably no less inferior to mine."


    Hong Lingtong made a judgment with a voice transmission. "The royal family is here too. It is without a doubt the number one family clan in the world at present. I do not know that old man but from the looks of it, he has the strongest aura among the people here. He should be at the Connate Golden Core realm. The person beside him is Sixteenth Prince who Human Emperor favors a lot."


    Qin Yun took a glance.


    Sixteenth Prince was a thin and cold young man. He also looked at Qin Yun and his eyes remained cold and heartless.


    "I heard that he is also pursuing Yi Xiao," thought Qin Yun.


    "The Yi family is here as well." Hong Lingtong looked at the distant entrance. "The Yi family did not send anyone at the Connate Golden Core. Indeed, it appears that the Yi family only has one Connate Golden Core realm cultivator at present. They are unwilling to take the risk. Well, among the six parties¡­ Yue Chapter''s Deacon Yuan, the royal family, and the Bai family have sent people at the Connate Golden Core realm. The Yi and Zhu family, as well as us, do not have anyone at the Connate Golden Core."


    "The situation is still alright. We aren''t considered too weak," said Hong Lingtong with a voice transmission.


    However, Qin Yun''s gaze had landed on a figure walking in through the entrance. The figure was none other than Yi Xiao.


    "Miss Yi Xiao!" Sixteenth Prince shouted loudly as his expression was filled with passion.


    Yi Xiao looked at Sixteenth Prince and nodded.


    Following that, Yi Xiao walked towards Qin Yun, and he walked over to her. After being separated for four months, the both of them missed each other.


    "Qin Yun."


    "Yi Xiao."


    The couple stood together as they looked into each other''s eyes in an obviously intimate manner.

 143 Known by Everyone in the World

    Chapter 143: Known by Everyone in the World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sixteenth Prince''s expression froze as he glared at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, who were chatting a distance away.


    "I never expected an itinerant cultivator to successfully seduce Yi Xiao. That Yi Xiao truly has low standards. To think I thought so highly of her in the past," Sixteenth Prince thought hatefully. However, he could not curb the pangs of jealousy in his heart. After all, Yi Xiao was the most beautiful and dignified woman he had ever seen. She was also the one that stirred his heart the most. "How dare an itinerant cultivator snatch her from me. He truly has a death wish."


    The elder standing beside him was brawny and bald. Although he was covered in long robes, they could not hide the fact that his body was the most powerful and grandiose of the people present. His neck and wrists were exposed, and the skin there suffused a golden glow.


    He was also the person with the strongest aura among the people present. When he scanned his surroundings, his eyes were cold! Be it the Yi family or the Zhu family, or even the Bai family from Numinous Treasure Mountain, the elder only looked at them coldly. He couldn''t even be bothered to force a smile.


    But¡­


    When he saw Sixteenth Prince warmly greet Yi Xiao, the young lady from the Yi family, only for her to go off to a corner with Qin Yun, he understood what was going on. He especially knew thanks to the ugly expression on Sixteenth Prince''s face.


    "Hongyi." The bald elder sent a voice transmission to the Sixteenth Prince standing beside him. "Do not let trivial things like the affairs of the heart affect what is important."


    "Elder Lie, don''t worry. Father Emperor picked me especially for the mission of coming here with you. I will naturally do my best to help Elder Lie get his hands on the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet," said Sixteenth Prince with a voice transmission.


    The bald elder nodded slightly and said with a voice transmission, "We¡¯ll have to fight for the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet. Similarly, the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron, must be obtained as well. Long ago, Perfected Scenic Yang created the ''Golden Core Outer Pill Three Volumes.¡¯ Two of the volumes are currently in the imperial palace''s treasury. But to this day, no one has been able to refine a Golden Core Outer Pill! Perfected Scenic Yang was the only person in history to refine it. His Majesty has said that in order to refine the Golden Core Outer Pill, one would probably need to use Perfected Scenic Yang''s alchemical cauldron ''Golden Core Cauldron'' to stand a chance."


    "Elder Lie, I understand. I''ll follow your every instruction," said Sixteenth Prince with a voice transmission immediately.


    "Alright. His Majesty thinks highly of you. It is a rare opportunity to challenge yourself. Grasp this opportunity well. As for that young lady, Yi Xiao, is she the one you like?" The bald elder said laughingly with a voice transmission, "If there''s a suitable chance, we can just silently cause Qin Yun to die."


    ixteenth Prince''s eyes lit up as he said with a voice transmission, "Alright. We should place importance on the more serious matters. If we do act against Qin Yun, however, Yi Xiao must not see it! It would be problematic if Yi Xiao were to bear a grudge."


    "Do you need to teach me something so trivial?" A smile suffused the bald elder''s lips.


    "Yes, yes," Sixteenth Prince said immediately.


    ¡­


    As for Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, they were chatting in a corner of the yard. Hong Lingtong knew better than to disturb them.


    "Qin Yun, among the six parties here, three of them have experts at the Connate Golden Core realm," Yi Xiao explained with a voice transmission. "They are Yue Chapter''s Deacon Yuan, the Bai family''s Fairy Junyue, as well as the strongest person present, the royal family expert, Ji Lie."


    Qin Yun was alarmed as he asked with a voice transmission, "Ji Lie? He''s the strongest?"


    "Yea."


    Yi Xiao immediately passed the information to her lover. The way she saw it, Qin Yun''s side was lacking in heritage. They also did not have many powerful treasures, which worried Yi Xiao. "Ji Lie is like you. He has reached the level of intent domain. But he is at the Connate Golden Core realm! Furthermore, with the royal family being what it is, they will definitely bestow him with powerful treasures."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    "Among the six parties, Ji Lie is undoubtedly the top when it comes to raw strength! He alone can match the collective efforts of the rest," said Yi Xiao with a voice transmission. "The second person is Fairy Junyue! She is from Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Bai family. Since the Bai family is taking action, she must be carrying powerful treasures with her. With those treasures, she is probably the only one capable of matching Ji Lie in a battle."


    "Although Deacon Yuan is a Connate Golden Core sword immortal, he is only ranked third! Qin Yun, your strength should be close to Deacon Yuan¡¯s, but in terms of Dharma treasures, you are lacking," said Yi Xiao.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has reached the fourth-grade now." Qin Yun could not help but comment with a voice transmission. "Don''t you think too lowly of me."


    "Deacon Yuan is a Connate Golden Core sword immortal that has cultivated for centuries. His Intrinsic Flying Sword has also been nurtured to the fourth-grade," explained Yi Xiao. "However, it¡¯s only still there because he lacks insight! Furthermore, as Yue Chapter''s Deacon Yuan, the chances of him bringing a first-grade Dharma treasure into Scenic Yang Cave Abode is very unlikely. However, he will bring two or three second-grade Dharma treasures and some life-preservation treasures. That is certain. As for you? All you have is a fourth-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword!"


    Qin Yun was rendered speechless as he grumbled through a voice transmission. "Alright, I get it. I''m only an itinerant cultivator, after all."


    Deacon Yuan''s background was considered the weakest.


    But he was also one of the only two Connate Golden Cores in Yue Chapter''s present generation. The Yue Chapter was unwilling to risk a first-grade Dharma treasure but for it to have survived since ancient times, the Yue Chapter''s heritage was strong enough to compensate. It was also normal for the Yue Chapter to let Deacon Yuan bring two or three second-grade Dharma treasures and other life-preservation items with him.


    In bouts between cultivators, external objects were as important as combat skills!


    There was no need to elaborate on the Bai family or the Ji family from the imperial lineage. They were the two strongest family clans in the world! They no doubt had their eyes on the Numinous treasure and transcendent-grade Dharma treasures within the cave!


    Even the Yi family and the Zhu family, both thousand-year-old family clans, had only sent people at the Connate True Core realm.


    "Qin Yun, you also have your advantages. You are close to Deacon Yuan and Fairy Junyue in terms of strength. However, you are lacking in Dharma treasures and have fewer resources at your disposal," said Yi Xiao with a voice transmission. "As such, they probably do not think of you as a true opponent. That too is a great advantage."


    "Yes! Yes!" Qin Yun was elated that Yi Xiao was so considerate of his feelings.


    "Everyone."


    Suddenly, a few Daoists walked over. The person speaking was a fat Daoist.


    "Sect Master Gong."


    "Greetings, Sect Master Gong."


    The royal family, the Bai family, and everyone present, including Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong, bowed hurriedly.


    The fat Daoist was Jiang Prefecture''s strongest expert! Among the Jiang Prefecture''s six Connate Golden Core realm experts, only Sect Master Gong had reached the level of intent domain. Of course, that strength was on the surface! According to what Qin Yun knew, Scenic Mountain Sect was once a Daoist sacred land. Even though it had declined, it still had an Essence Soul immortal presiding over it in secret! However, having only one Essence Soul immortal and two Connate Golden Cores was basically like having little cats and dogs that it made them far from being a Daoist sacred land!


    One had to know that if the Buddhist and Daoist sacred lands joined forces, they would be even stronger than the imperial government.


    "Since everyone is here," Sect Master Gong said with a smile, "We shall not delay any further. Now, let us set off for Scenic Yang Cave Abode."


    "Alright."


    "We will follow your instructions, Sect Master Gong."


    Soon, Sect Master Gong led the group on a cloud away from Scenic Mountain Sect and headed for the Scenic Yang Cave Abode.


    ******


    "The six parties that are entering Scenic Yang Cave Abode are: Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Bai family''s Bai Junyue and Bai Junyu, The Yi family''s Yi Fenggu and Yi Xiao¡­" The imperial government immediately received the information.


    It was not only limited to the imperial government.


    The Primordial Chaos Sect, Divine Firmament Chapter, Numinous Treasure Mountain, as well as the large family clans that participated all received the information.


    Once so many people learned of the news, it was no longer a secret.


    ¡­


    "The Scenic Yang Cave Abode has been opened? The Scenic Mountain Sect and experts from six parties are entering together?" Similarly, Myriad Temple received detailed news of the matter. "This information is rather valuable and can be sold for a good price. The demons and the Four Seas'' Water race will probably be very interested in it."


    ¡­


    Cloudfiend Mountain.


    As a home of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, legend described it as a fiend mountain that floated above the clouds.


    In fact, Cloudfiend Mountain was situated above the clouds that hung over Qian Prefecture. Array formations were activated perennially that spewed black mists around it. Even if typical cultivators and demons were to fly around its vicinity, they would not be able to find Cloudfiend Mountain.


    And at that moment, two fiendcelestials met in Cloudfiend Mountain.


    One was a plump white-robed elder and the other was a handsome man holding a fan.


    "This is news from Myriad Temple. Take a look." The fat elder smiled as he waved his hand. Text began appearing in midair beside him.


    The handsome man read the floating words as he gently swayed his fan. With a look of surprise, he exclaimed, "Scenic Yang Cave Abode has been opened? I''ve heard that Perfected Scenic Yang was extremely powerful. Mountain Lord, you nearly died under his hands back then, correct?"


    "Yea."


    The fat elder nodded with a smile. "Back then, I had just established the Cloudfiend Mountain lineage. I was highly spirited and challenged that old fool, Scenic Yang, to a battle above the East Sea. I was defeated in that battle! However, he was too hard-headed and was tarnished by too much karma. He eventually died from the tribulations. Let that be a lesson that one should not mess around too much once one becomes a god or immortal. His cave abode is opening, and it is located in the Jiang Prefecture. Back when the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons handed out territories, the Jiang and Qian Prefectures were placed under my Cloudfiend Mountain''s jurisdiction. If my Cloudfiend Mountain were to ignore the treasures stored in Jiang Prefecture''s Scenic Yang Cave Abode, wouldn''t we be the ridicule of the world?"


    "Of course, we need to vie for them." The handsome man snapped his fan and immediately said, "However, we can''t enter the immortal abode. Perfected Scenic Yang set up array formations that spell certain doom for fiendish demons if they enter. The most opportune time to attack will be when they bring the treasures out from the immortal abode."


    "Then, I''ll leave this matter to you," said the fat old man.


    "Alright."


    The handsome man smiled as he looked at the text in midair and pointed at a paragraph. He said with a smile, "Look. Among the six who entered, five of them are as expected. They all have a substantial background, but this party is made up of itinerant cultivators? Qin Yun? Hong Lingtong?"


    ¡­


    The entire world¡ªhumans, demons, Four Seas'' Water race, and the top factions¡ªrapidly learned about the Scenic Yang Cave Abode''s opening. They also learned the backgrounds of the experts from the six parties. As such, information about Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong appeared in front of various powerful entities.

 144 Immortal Abode Opens

    Chapter 144: Immortal Abode Opens


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The cultivators from the seven parties, including those from the Scenic Mountain Sect, flew on a cloud as they headed for Scenic Yang Cave Abode.


    In just an hour, a huge lake appeared beneath them. In the middle of the lake was an island with clouds lingering above it.


    "We are here at Scenic Yang Cave Abode," Sect Master Gong and Palatial Lord Essence Charm took in the sight beneath them with no attempt to hide their excitement.


    "It''s been three thousand years. We have been useless descendants. We only now managed to gather all six tokens," Palatial Lord Essence Charm could not help but mumble. "Furthermore, all treasures other than the manuals are to be given to outsiders before we can even have a chance at obtaining the manuals. As descendants, we are truly useless. Useless."


    He said this all verbally but he insulated his voice from others.


    Sect Master Gong had mixed feelings as well.


    "We are here."


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode." The royal family''s Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince, as well as the Bai family''s Bai Junyue and her sister, were all looking on with anticipation as their eyes shimmered.


    "I care not about Numinous treasures or transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. But the flying sword, White Dew, as well as any items left behind by Elder Sword must be obtained," Deacon Yuan thought to himself.


    "Eighth Brother. We are here to challenge ourselves. Whatever treasures we vie for will be decided by you." The stocky young man and the youth from the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Zhu family were communicating by voice transmissions.


    Yi Fenggu and Yi Xiao similarly only had thoughts of challenging themselves. Whatever treasures they obtained would be purely determined by luck.


    Despite the Zhu family and the Yi family being thousand-year-old family clans, the Zhu family only had two Connate Golden Cores in the current generation while the Yi family had one. They did not wish to risk the lives of their Connate Golden Cores! Although the chances of death were likely very low in the expedition to Scenic Yang Cave Abode, with Perfected Scenic Yang unlikely to be overly ruthless to humans, it would still be very difficult. No one knew how ruthless Perfected Scenic Yang might have been when setting up the guardian array formations during his final days.


    Only the royal family and the Bai family could easily send a Connate Golden Core. The Yue Chapter''s Deacon Yuan was also advanced in his years, so he was risking it all on this one bet with the hopes of returning White Dew to the Yue Chapter! That way, the Yue Chapter would have an additional cornerstone Dharma treasure.


    "Once we enter the cave abode, everything will depend on our own skills and methods," Hong Lingtong said with a voice transmission that was filled with fighting spirit.


    "A low profile. Keep a low profile," said Qin Yun with a chuckling voice transmission. "Our side appears to be the least striking at first glance."


    Phew.


    The cloud descended onto the periphery of the island.


    "Sect Master." There were Scenic Mountain Sect disciples already on the island that came to greet the group.


    "Alright." Sect Master Gong nodded. Following that, he smiled at Qin Yun and company. "Everyone, please follow me."


    They proceeded on a tiny path made of granite.


    Soon, a rugged mountain door about a hundred feet tall towered in front of them. On the door was written two massive words, ''Rosy Dawn''. However, outside the door was a gigantic eight trigram that slowly spun as it sealed the door. Sitting cross-legged beside the door were eight Daoists. At that moment, the eight Daoists saw Sect Master Gong and company walking over from afar. They stood up and bowed, "Greetings, Sect Master."


    "Guardians of Scenic Yang Cave Abode, it has been tough on you. From this day forth, there will be no more need for you to guard it," Sect Master Gong said with a smile.


    The eight Daoists nodded slightly. However, they did not have the kindest expressions when they looked at the cultivating experts from the six different factions behind Sect Master Gong.


    They also knew¡­


    The expedition into the abode would only end up with the Scenic Mountain Sect taking away the manuals. The treasures would all be taken by the six parties! These were treasures left behind by their ancestral master, Scenic Yang! However, there was no other way about it. They could only blame themselves for being weak.


    "Deactivate the array formation," instructed Sect Master Gong.


    "Yes."


    The eight Daoists immediately took action and soon, the eight trigram seal that sealed the entire door began to dissipate.


    The Rosy Dawn Door revealed its full nature. It was extremely unadorned and very simplistic. However, upon careful inspection, one could sense great horror! The eight trigram seal from before might appear ostentatious, but in fact, it could only ward off people that were beneath the Essence Soul realm! And although the mountain door was ordinary, it contained a power that would strike terror into the hearts of immortals and fiendcelestials.


    "Scenic Yang Cave Abode was Ancestor Scenic Yang''s other cultivation residence," Sect Master Gong explained with a smile. "Later on, Ancestor Scenic Yang predicted that my Scenic Mountain Sect would suffer a calamity in the future. Therefore, he prepared and hid manuals and many treasures in here, leaving them for the descendants of my Scenic Mountain Sect."


    "Today, we have all come here together. My Scenic Mountain Sect will only be retrieving the manuals and will not take any of the treasures. Those will be up for grabs among the six parties gathered here," said Sect Master Gong with a smile. "In front of us is the main door, Rosy Dawn Door. It is the only door and also the only correct way to enter the cave abode. All these years, my Scenic Mountain Sect has only guarded this Rosy Dawn Door. As for the entering the cave abode through other areas on the island, that would be seeking death! Many cultivators have tried to enter from other spots throughout the years, but none have returned alive. The treasures of the cultivators that died inside are also up for grabs."


    "Yea."


    Qin Yun and company had long known this fact.


    "The mountain door is the only correct entrance. Without the token, it would be most dangerous to forcibly barge in. Weaker immortals or fiendcelestials would be crushed to death by the entire Scenic Yang Cave Abode''s array. Even the stronger immortals or fiendcelestials that are capable of breaking down the door would not dare do so. That¡¯s because once it is broken open, the entire Scenic Yang Cave Abode''s array formation will stir up the Heaven and Earth powers in a hundred-and-fifty-kilometers radius. By breaking it forcibly, you would cause everything within a hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius to turn to dust! Countless mortals and demons would be sacrificed and wiped out in the devastation."


    "Such immense karma! How terrifying would this negative karma be? Even immortals or fiendcelestials would not be able to withstand it. The payback will immediately take effect in the form of an eruption that would equal certain death," Sect Master Gong said with a smile. "And that power is not limited to the mountain door. No matter which area the immortals or fiendcelestials enter from, if they enter Scenic Yang Cave Abode sneakily, they will be sensed by the arrays and everything in a hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius will be reduced to dust. Therefore, no immortal or fiendcelestial has attempted to forcibly gain entry for three millennia."


    "How relentless." Hong Lingtong sent a voice transmission to Qin Yun. "Tying all the lives in a hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius to the cave abode...it really shows that an immortal that''s about to die is willing to do anything."


    "Therefore, immortals of fiendcelestials do not dare enter," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "Everyone, please take out your tokens. One has only thirty seconds to enter when the mountain door is opened. After that, the door will close again." Sect Master Gong said, "As for coming out, there''s no need to worry. The mountain door only prevents outsiders from entering but it will not obstruct those coming out from the inside."


    Qin Yun and company had long known the basic information. The six parties took out their tokens.


    With the six tokens taken out, they immediately flew out one by one towards the mountain door.


    Hum! Hum! Hum!


    The six tokens joined up together and formed a circular disc and merged into the middle of the mountain door''s ''Rosy Dawn'' words. What looked like an ordinary mountain door was, in fact, blocked by an invisible spatial membrane. It was something weaker immortals or fiendcelestials would not be able to break apart. And at that moment, the spatial membrane vanished.


    "According to what my Scenic Mountain Sect has declared in the past, there will be three from our sect entering." Sect Master Gong walked straight in front. Behind him, two Connate True Core realm disciples followed.


    "Sect Master Gong is entering himself?"


    "This¡­"


    The other six parties were somewhat astonished.


    Sect Master Gong was number one in Jiang Prefecture! Why was he taking such a risk?


    "It is imperative that my Scenic Mountain Sect obtains the manuals," Sect Master Gong scanned the people behind him. "Everyone, let''s enter together."


    The royal family''s Ji Lie knitted his brows tightly. He had been the strongest out of all of them! Now, Sect Master Gong was entering as well. Sect Master Gong''s strength was definitely not inferior to his. Furthermore, Ji Lie knew that Scenic Mountain Sect was truly going for broke. Even the sect master was risking his life so it was obvious that he would bring along extremely powerful treasures.


    "This Scenic Mountain Sect Master will not backstab us when we enter, right? In terms of knowledge regarding the Scenic Yang Cave Abode, no one can compare to the Scenic Mountain Sect," Ji Lie ruminated in secret. "Hmph, but even if they are ten times more emboldened, they would not dare act against the royal family. If I were to die in here, with no way to send a message to the external world, His Majesty would definitely be able to infer what befell me."


    Human Emperor had unified the world and was presiding over it. It was unlikely that the Scenic Mountain Sect would dare provoke the royal family.


    Following that, the group entered.


    "Qin Yun." A voice sounded in his ear.


    Qin Yun turned to see Sixteenth Prince''s cold gaze. There was a mocking smile hanging from Sixteenth Prince''s lips as he continued his voice transmission. "You are only an itinerant cultivator but you dare enter the Scenic Yang Cave Abode. How bold of you! However, I have to warn you of one thing. The news of the six factions entering Scenic Yang Cave Abode has probably been spread throughout the world. Not only to us humans, but even the top factions of demons and the Four Seas'' Water race of every corner of the world have learned of this expedition."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    Had it been made known to the entire world?


    He knew that once the six parties gathered, he and Hong Lingtong would be exposed. However, for the news to spread throughout the world so quickly, including to the demons and Four Seas'' Water race, it startled Qin Yun somewhat.


    "It''s very dangerous to enter an immortal abode to retrieve treasures, but it''s even more dangerous to bring those treasures into the outside world."


    "I urge you to give up quickly. That way, you can still survive," said Sixteenth Prince with a voice transmission. "If not, you might die in the immortal abode. And out of it, you will definitely die. In short, death for you is certain."


    "What I just said is for your own good. If you give up now, you will be able to live. This is your only chance of survival." The smile on Sixteenth Prince''s mouth turned more intense.


    Qin Yun could tell that the prince was up to no good.


    At the same moment Sixteenth Prince made the voice transmission, the group had entered. They passed through the Rosy Dawn Door.


    Soon.


    The Rosy Dawn Door''s array formation began activating as the spatial membrane appeared once again, isolating them from the external world. No one from the outside could enter again.

 145 Treasures Everywhere

    Chapter 145: Treasures Everywhere


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked back at the Rosy Dawn Door and scanned it carefully with his perception. He could vaguely sense that the Rosy Dawn Door had a subtle layer that isolated them from the outside world! As a result, his senses could no longer reach the outside world.


    "The array formation set up by Immortal Scenic Yang is truly powerful," thought Qin Yun.


    However, Sixteenth Prince was shooting a glance at Qin Yun as he said with a voice transmission. "Since you have the guts to enter, you better be careful. The array formations that Senior Scenic Yang left behind will show no mercy. It would be such a pity if you die in the immortal abode at such a young age!"


    "Your Highness, you have to be careful too. Immortal Scenic Yang''s array formations cannot identify you as a prince. Just like with me, it will show no mercy," said Qin Yun laughingly with a voice transmission.


    "Hmph." Sixteenth Prince did not speak any further.


    The seven factions present, including the Scenic Mountain Sect, made for a total of fifteen experts. They proceeded down a granite path.


    At the end of it, Qin Yun and company saw an immortal mansion about a kilometer away.


    "That is?" Qin Yun cast his gaze and saw that, on the desolate lands far away, there were remnant clothes with Dharma treasures strewn around them. A huge seal was emanating colorful light and there was a black stone pole stabbed into the mud. Although the pole seemed simplistic, Qin Yun and company could sense the runic fluctuations coming from the stone pole''s surface. It was an extremely powerful Dharma treasure.


    "There are Dharma treasures."


    "There too!"


    The experts from the royal family, the Bai family, and the Yi family discovered the treasures one after another. They were just barely beginning their journey, and already the desolate lands outside the mansion were randomly filled with clothes and Dharma treasures.


    Due to the immortal cave abode, one was unable to release one''s psyche to sense the area. But just the naked eye alone could see about twelve spots with remnant clothes and black blood stains in the vicinity around them. There were scattered Dharma treasures as well as fragments of gold and silver.


    Although the Dharma treasures were discovered, no one moved immediately. They were in an immortal cave abode after all! If they stupidly made a rash move, it was likely that they would throw their lives away.


    "Everyone," Sect Master Gong scanned his surroundings and said with a smile. "In the periphery of Ancestral Master Scenic Yang''s mansion, there is a Windsand Array set up. Once any living entity enters the array''s confines or even has a fluctuation of Dharmic powers, the Windsand will be triggered. Even Connate Golden Core cultivators would be ground to mush."


    Qin Yun and company drew a cold gasp.


    "Just the outer array formations are that powerful?" thought Qin Yun.


    "My Scenic Mountain Sect has only been protecting the mountain door all these years. Over the past three millennia, there have been many cultivators that forcibly barged into the immortal abode from other spots on the island. Perhaps they were trying to obtain treasures to increase their strength or to extend their lifespans. Either way, for the past three thousand years, there have been quite a number of cultivators that have entered to risk it all for treasure! Nearly all of them have died in the periphery array formation. Only a few extremely strong ones have managed to continue into the depths of the abode!" explained Sect Master Gong.


    "Of course, now the six tokens have opened the mountain door properly. Many of the array formations in the immortal abode are mainly a test and are not there to ruthlessly kill! But even if they are tests, those that get killed by a weakened array formation because they are too weak¡­ can''t blame anyone but themselves," said Sect Master Gong with a smile.


    "Sect Master Gong."


    The handsome youth from the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Zhu family, Eighth Zhu, had his eyes lit up. "Do you mean that the various array formations in the immortal abode have greatly decreased in strength? This Windsand Array is also drastically weakened?"


    Sect Master Gong smiled and nodded. "That''s right. Its strength has been drastically reduced. Once the mountain door is opened, entry into the Windsand Array only triggers a Wind Blade Array and not the compounded Windsand Array. Its strength is about ten to twenty percent of the true Windsand Array."


    Just as his voice faded, the stocky young man, Zhu Feng, standing beside Eighth Zhu charged out abruptly with a whoosh. His steps were like lightning and, in a flash, he traversed a great distance. The air above the desolate land began to gently distort into a wind blade that came slashing at him.


    "There''s no hurry." Eighth Zhu shouted immediately but it was too late.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The wind blades struck Zhu Feng''s body. With grinding sounds, the blades slashed his clothes to no avail. Some struck his neck but not a single mark was left behind. This left Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, Deacon Yuan, and company somewhat astonished.


    "As expected of Primordial Chaos Sect''s Lunatic Zhu. His physique has been cultivated to such an immense state. According to the intelligence, be it the humans, demons, Four Seas'' Water race, out of any being in the entire world, the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Lunatic Zhu''s body is the cream of the crop at the Connate True Core realm," thought Qin Yun.


    In terms of physical cultivation, the Daoist sacred land, Primordial Chaos Sect, was the undisputed number one.


    As for Lunatic Zhu, he was also the strongest person at the Connate True Core realm in Primordial Chaos Sect!


    As the wind blades came hurling at him, Zhu Feng chuckled. He extended his hand and grabbed the Dharma treasures on the ground and threw them into his Cosmic Bag.


    "Sigh, what''s the rush." The handsome youth, Eighth Zhu, held his palm to his face and looked somewhat helpless.


    As for the rest, they finally ascertained the strength of the array formation.


    "They are indeed only wind blades!"


    "They¡¯re not particularly strong. Every wave of the wind blades contains about as much strength as a peak Connate True Core realm."


    Sou!


    Qin Yun moved as well. Stepping on a purple flying sword, he flew straight to a distant spot that had numerous Dharma treasures.


    More quickly took action: Ji Lie, Bai Junyue, Deacon Yuan, and Yi Fenggu.


    After all, despite the Windsand Array only being able to produce a Wind Blade Array, it was not something a typical Connate True Core realm cultivator would just barge into! Ji Lie, Bai Junyue, Deacon Yuan were naturally unafraid. They were at the Connate Golden Core realm! As for Lunatic Zhu¡­ he was the person with the most terrifying physique in the Connate True Core realm of the present generation. He could even match some people at the Connate Golden Core realm who cultivated in physical formulations.


    Qin Yun had recently slain the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain so he was naturally confident.


    Yi Fenggu was also an experienced person at the Connate True Core realm who had been personally selected by the Yi family. He too could exchange ten to twenty blows with a Connate Golden Core.


    As for the rest?


    Sixteenth Prince had recently broken through to the Connate True Core and was unwilling to take the risk! Yi Xiao had also just grasped the Lightning Concept. She was strong on the offensive but rather weak at life preservation! Fang Yu, Bai Junyu, Hong Lingtong, and Eighth Zhu were adept at array formations so they were also unwilling to risk themselves.


    "Even if the Windsand Array is operating at a mere portion of its full strength, it''s not that easy to withstand. A Connate False Core realm sword immortal wants to charge in?" Sixteenth Prince scoffed lightly.


    Many people simply stood by and watched.


    The people from the Scenic Mountain Sect only watched without taking action. They had made it clear that they only wanted the manuals and not treasures!


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    At the moment Qin Yun charged forward, wind blades roused together as one in midair before the huge wind blade came whizzing at him. It was extremely fast and mighty.


    However, a red flying sword flew out from Qin Yun''s hand.


    The purple and red flying swords were two brand new fifth-grade Dharma treasures that he had exchanged for! Typically, one''s Intrinsic Flying Sword stayed with them throughout their cultivation while the other flying swords would be constantly changed as one''s strength increased!


    "Puah! Puah! Puah!"


    The red flying sword flew in the vicinity, leaving behind trajectories that easily blocked the wind blades! Qin Yun was most skilled at defense, so the trifling wind blades¡­ gave him no pressure at all. Furthermore, Qin Yun still had his Intrinsic Flying Sword in his sleeve that he could release at any time. In the immortal''s cave abode, Qin Yun did not plan on relaxing even for a single moment.


    "Treasures." Qin Yun flew to a spot and released his Quintessential Essence to sweep up the Dharma treasures on the ground. The Dharma treasures whooshed into his opened Cosmic Bag.


    "This is a fourth-grade Dharma treasure. A fourth-grade Dharma treasure. This¡­ This is a second-grade Dharma treasure?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he looked at the huge seal that emitted colorful light in his hand.


    "I''ve no idea who the deceased is but I¡¯d guess it to be some Connate Golden Core cultivator. If he was going to risk entering this place, he should have left some treasures behind for his descendants and only brought in the most common Dharma treasures. But even so, the yields from this spot are already a lot more than what I received from killing the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain." Qin Yun felt a little excited.


    What a joke.


    A second-grade Dharma treasure!


    "He withstood the wind blades that easily?" Sixteenth Prince frowned secretly a distance away. "He''s not that weak after all."


    And at that moment, Qin Yun was visibly excited by the second-grade Dharma treasure.


    "Quick, quick, quick! Snatch it, snatch it, snatch it all! I''ll get a lot if I''m fast, but nothing if I''m slow!" Qin Yun suddenly waved his hand.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Woosh!


    Instantly, four flying swords flew out. They were the eighth-grade flying swords he had been using for a long time. They paired off and each pair headed for a different spot.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" The flying swords contained immense Dharmic powers that emanated as fluctuations. They also stirred the wind blades to gather and lash down onto the flying swords.


    But under Qin Yun''s control, even the eighth-grade flying swords were enough to withstand the wind blades!


    A flying sword fended off the blade wind and the other flying sword would begin sweeping up the Dharma treasures of that area. With such cooperation, they rapidly brought the treasures back to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun was controlling four flying swords at the same time! There was also the sword he was riding, flying him towards another corner.


    It was equivalent to executing three simultaneous operations!


    This scene was witnessed by the people standing afar. People like the Scenic Mountain Sect group, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, Sixteenth Prince, Eighth Zhu, and company were all astounded.

 146 Dao Repository

    Chapter 146: Dao Repository


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Our young friend Qin sure has impressive flying sword arts," said Scenic Mountain Sect''s Sect Master Gong as he stroked his beard. "Despite controlling so many flying swords simultaneously, he is still able to withstand the Wind Blade Array."


    "He simply lucked out, getting so many treasures," Sixteenth Prince was feeling irked.


    Yi Xiao watched with a smile. She knew Qin Yun''s strength pretty well.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun, slow down!" Primordial Chaos Sect''s Lunatic Zhu ran like a bolt of lightning. He was originally grinning, but when he saw that Qin Yun was able to collect treasure from three different spots simultaneously, he could not help but anxiously shout. However, he soon discovered that Deacon Yuan and Bai Junyue had begun deploying their resources. Deacon Yuan had also released his flying swords.


    After all, as the incumbent Deacon Yuan, he carried quite a number of seventh and eighth-grade flying swords. However, to be able to withstand Wind Blade Array''s attacks while controlling flying swords, Deacon Yuan could only collect treasures from three spots at the same time just like Qin Yun.


    Meanwhile, there were stellar streams flowing across the surface of Bai Junyue''s body. Suddenly, the stellar flows split into three and shot off in various directions. She was capable of collecting treasures from four different spots!


    "Phew¨CPhew¨C"


    The bald elder, Ji Lie, who was the strongest person present, was a cultivator in the Godfiend lineage. He was only powerful in close combat and not adept at controlling Dharma treasures from a distance. He yelled deeply while flying maniacally, his arms rapidly expanded. Each arm expanded to the size of hundreds of feet as his palms became massive. This was the divine power, Power Arms. It was also the divine power that Ji Lie was most skilled in.


    With his arms expanding abruptly, each massive palm was bigger than a house. As they enveloped the area, he grabbed the Dharma treasures a distance away and rapidly rushed to another spot! All he could do was rely on his speed to vie for the treasure.


    The periphery of the immortal mansion was wiped clean in seconds due to the insane speed the cultivators were working at.


    Qin Yun opened a Cosmic Bag and the flying swords came back from afar and swept the Dharma treasures into it.


    "Cultivation requires Dharmic methods, money, companionship, and land. I already have my Dharmic methods. Money is important too. Yi Xiao''s cultivation of charms requires a lot of materials. I cultivate my Intrinsic Flying Sword, so other than the requirement of my sword intent becoming higher, I also need all sorts of rare treasures. Also, my Qin family has many dependent cultivators. When the younger generation of the Qin family cultivates, each one of them will need large amounts of treasure. Only by entering an immortal abode will I be able to harvest treasures so easily. Chances like this don¡¯t come too often!" Qin Yun was overjoyed.


    "I took treasures from six spots. I even got one second-grade Dharma treasure! There are two third-grade Dharma treasures and eight fourth-grade Dharma treasures, as well as some miscellaneous treasures," thought Qin Yun.


    Connate Golden Core cultivators would typically only use fourth-grade intrinsic Dharma treasures!


    That was because an intrinsic Dharma treasure could only be enhanced slowly through one''s own hard work. The requirements for one''s realm and various other aspects were extremely stringent. People like Qin Yun and Deacon Yuan only had fourth-grade Intrinsic Flying Swords!


    When it came to non-intrinsic Dharma treasures, they would typically use third-grade Dharma treasures! To be able to use a second or first-grade Dharma treasure, one would need to have the accumulated heritage of a sect or family clan backing them. Sects and family clans would not permit a cornerstone Dharma treasure at the first or second-grade to be brought on risky expeditions such as the one to Scenic Yang Cave Abode! Therefore, Qin Yun was pleasantly surprised to discover a second-grade Dharma in his harvest.


    Then again, it depended on the situation.


    With the six tokens gathered, the mountain door had been opened! Compared to those that had forcibly barged into Scenic Yang Cave Abode, Qin Yun and company were magnitudes safer. Therefore, Deacon Yuan, Bai Junyue, and Ji Lie had brought some powerful Dharma treasures with them! If they were entering with a higher chance of death, Deacon Yuan might have only brought his Intrinsic Flying Sword and one or two life-preservation Dharma treasures.


    "They sure made a killing out there."


    "So many treasures."


    The two Connate True Core realm cultivators from the Scenic Mountain Sect were envious.


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun, who was flying back on a sword, with a smile. There was a flying sword circling Qin Yun too, easily blocking the wind blades.


    "Phew." Qin Yun landed on the granite path.


    "You made quite a killing this time," Yi Xiao smilingly said with a voice transmission. "From what I saw, Fairy Bai should have obtained the most. She harvested eight spots. You and Deacon Yuan harvested six spots! Ji Lie took four, while Zhu Feng and my second uncle did three."


    Qin Yun glanced at Fairy Junyue who had landed beside him, but she still had a cold expression on her face.


    "This Fairy Bai appears to have used the legendary Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle of the Bai family," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "Yea. It''s extremely powerful." Yi Xiao nodded.


    The Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Bai family had a cornerstone Numinous treasure known as the Stellar Heavenly Cycle. It had shone greatly in ancient times, as well as through many historical transitions!


    Over the ages, the Bai family succeeded in refining two Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycles. While not entirely equal to the original Stellar Heavenly cycle, they were still first-grade Dharma treasures! A set of the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle was comprised of thirty-six stars. Each star alone was a fourth-grade Dharma treasure! Combined together, they became a first-grade Dharma treasure. The Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle was deemed to be a perfect Dharma treasure that was good for both offense and defense. With Bai Junyue bringing it in, it showed how serious the Bai family was about the expedition.


    "Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle." Ji Lie flew back and shot a glance at Bai Junyue as his pupils contracted.


    "Even first-grade Dharma treasures have their pros and cons," said Yi Xiao with a voice transmission. "But the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle is one of those that is nearly perfect."


    The slowest ones, Yi Fenggu and Lunatic Zhu, returned as well.


    "The treasures that were left behind by the cultivators who died from the Windsand Array over the past three millennia have been taken by the six parties," Sect Master Gong said with a smile. "Of course, those who died at the outer periphery to the Windsand Array could not be considered very strong. The truly powerful ones would have been able to resist the full brunt of the Windsand Array. They would have continued venturing deeper and died in a particular spot of the abode."


    The eyes of everyone present lit up.


    Of course, those that died at the periphery were the weaker ones.


    "Let''s make haste and enter," said Sect Master Gong with a smile. He was extremely calm and composed, not thinking much of the treasures. The Scenic Mountain Sect might have been weak, but it also had an Essence Soul immortal presiding over it! It was also a Daoist sacred land once. Some of the treasures that were handed down had been lost but some were still with them. In terms of foundational heritage, they were a lot stronger than top sects like the Yue Chapter.


    Everyone proceeded forward.


    "This is for you," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission to Hong Lingtong.


    Hong Lingtong looked at the Cosmic Bag Qin Yun was handing him. He immediately received it and was given a fright when he sensed it. He sent a voice transmission back to Qin Yun. "That''s too many. This is way too much. There are two third-grade Dharma treasures and six fourth-grade Dharma treasures in here. That''s way too much."


    "I happened to obtain a second-grade Dharma treasure. If we measured it, I¡¯m sure the prices would be equivalent." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "We agreed on splitting everything evenly. Without your token, I wouldn''t even be here."


    "Even so, the amount you just harvested is way too much. We only passed through the mountain door and haven''t even gone into the mansion, yet we already have so much¡­" Hong Lingtong said with a voice transmission. "Although I''m ambitious as well, I''m already satisfied with having this much. After all, I''m currently weak. I''ll be afraid if I have too many treasures. Why don''t we do this, if there are any treasures that really catch my eye, just hand me those. The rest are no longer important."


    "We agreed on an even split. Besides, you might even obtain a powerful treasure. Would you really just give it to me?" Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "Also, if I go back on my promises now, it will mar my Dao heart."


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong said with a voice transmission. "However, let''s do the splitting after we leave this immortal abode. You have given me too much. I''m afraid that they will target me. Look at my tiny arms and legs. I won''t be able to hold them back."


    Qin Yun laughed.


    "Alright then. Since it''s only the treasures from the periphery, they won¡¯t think too much of them. Besides, I only gave you a Cosmic Bag. They probably think that there aren''t a lot of treasures in it," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission. "We shall split them after we exit later."


    The two chatted.


    Soon, the group of people covered about half a kilometer and arrived in front of the massive mansion''s door.


    Sect Master Gong examined it for a moment before pushing the door open.


    "Boom!"


    The mansion''s door rumbled open.


    Everyone carefully passed through the door, and were met by a massive yard upon entry. The front yard was huge, probably spanning two thousand feet across.


    To the left of the front yard was a building. Inscribed on it were the words, ''Dao Repository.''


    "Dao Repository?" The eyes of Sect Master Gong and the other two from his sect lit up.


    "Everyone, it was agreed upon that all manuals belong to my Scenic Mountain Sect. The rest will be up for grabs." Sect Master Gong pointed to the hall ahead. "After entering the grand hall, there will be many dangerous spots. There will also be treasures hidden inside. My Scenic Mountain Sect will not accompany you further! I can only tell everyone¡­ that the more powerful the treasure, the more powerful the array formation guarding it. Treasures are great but life is equally important. Act as you see fit."


    "Let''s go!"


    With that said, Sect Master Gong and company rushed for the Dao Repository.


    Qin Yun and the other cultivators looked at the repository. Ji Lie''s eyes lit up as he said with a smile, "That Dao Repository is where the most core manuals of the Scenic Mountain Sect were placed during Perfected Scenic Yang''s time. If they obtain those, the various Dharmic formulations of the Scenic Mountain Sect would probably close the gap between them and the Divine Firmament Chapter and Primordial Chaos Sect."


    As he spoke, Ji Lie shot a glance at the cultivators from the Yi and Zhu family. "It seems the Divine Firmament Chapter and Primordial Chaos Sect do not have any thoughts on the matter."


    Yi Fenggu said with a smile, "All Daoist formulations in the world stem from the same source. Cultivating our own Dharmic formulations to their peak is already extremely difficult, so why should we covet the manuals of other sects?"


    "Our Primordial Chaos Sect is about the Physical Establishing Sage. We do not care about these manuals," The handsome youth, Eighth Zhu said as he curled his mouth.


    "You two itinerant cultivators aren''t interested in those manuals?" Ji Lie shot a glance at Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong.


    "I''m a sword immortal, so there''s no way to convert my cultivation. What would I use those manuals for?" Qin Yun said with a smile.


    Hong Lingtong also said immediately, "We might be able to obtain some Dharma treasures through great difficulty. As for those manuals, I''d probably lose my life before I could even touch them if I enter after the Scenic Mountain Sect disciples entered."


    When it came to a sect''s heritage, manuals were the most important things.


    "Alright, then let''s continue venturing deeper." Ji Lie smiled faintly for he was in a good mood.


    Since Sect Master Gong and company had entered the Dao Repository, he was the strongest among the remaining six parties.


    "Now, I''m the strongest one here again. The Numinous treasure and other items that Perfected Scenic Yang left behind will naturally be mine," thought Ji Lie.


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong kept a low profile and followed the group, heading for the central hall.

 147 White Dew Flying Sword

    Chapter 147: White Dew Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On the two sides of the hall''s entrance were two columns.


    The left column wrote: "Receive my Scenic Mountain Sect''s Treasures."


    The right column wrote: "Experience my Scenic Mountain Sect''s Karma."


    Qin Yun and company walked past the massive front yard that spanned about two thousand feet and came into the grand hall in the middle. The text on the two columns by the entrance seemed to possess a mysterious power that constantly influenced the twelve people. It made Qin Yun and company involuntarily look at the text with the contents of the words drilling into their heads.


    "Heart Planting Spell." Bai Junyue frowned slightly and said, "Perfected Scenic Yang has set up a Heart Planting Spell on these columns. By planting the twelve words into our hearts, it will be impossible to forget them! As long as we enter to obtain the Scenic Mountain Sect''s treasures, it would be considered as accepting and experiencing the karma that derives from it."


    "We will just help the Scenic Mountain Sect in the future if there''s an opportunity," said Ji Lie with a laugh. "Besides, only immortals and fiendcelestials are afraid of karma. For us who have yet to become immortals or fiendcelestials, karma doesn''t concern us much. Oh, I''m wrong. I cultivate the Godfiend lineage. The Dao hearts isn''t that important. You people are Daoist cultivators, so you place a great importance on the Dao heart."


    Bai Junyue, Deacon Yuan, Qin Yun and company all placed a great importance on the matter.


    Although it was said that immortals and fiendcelestials were afraid of karma and the ensuing tribulations, the strongest ones among them were only at the Connate Golden Core realm. Logically speaking, there was no need to be afraid of karma. However, if they benefited greatly and did not repay the Scenic Mountain Sect, it would affect their Dao heart and their cultivation speed would greatly slow down. It might even end up coming to a halt.


    "I have good relations with the Scenic Mountain Sect anyway. Even without the immortal''s cave abode, I would help the Scenic Mountain Sect if I can." Qin Yun was rather unperturbed.


    Phew.


    Ji Lie waved his hand as his arms expanded and extended into the hall.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" The grand hall suddenly turned blurry. An array formation began activating, preventing people from seeing the internals of the grand hall with the naked eye.


    "Sect Master Gong had previously mentioned that there are many spots fraught with danger upon entering the grand hall. The treasures are also in there. The more powerful the treasure, the more dangerous it would be. Those who are afraid of death or are unwilling to experience the karma, don''t come in." Bai Junyue said coldly before leading the way in. Her sister, Bai Junyu followed as well. A star about the size of a fist was circling around them.


    "Let''s go." Ji Lie smiled before leading Sixteenth Prince straight in.


    "Let''s go."


    Instantly, everyone entered without any hesitation.


    Qin Yun proceeded together with Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Fenggu. His sword intent domain enveloped the area and it could already span eighty feet!


    At the moment they entered the grand hall, they felt their perception influenced upon entry into the array formation. The scene before them also changed.


    "Woosh~"


    It was a dark and silent space.


    There was surging lake waters beneath them. Bai Junyue, Ji Lie, Deacon Yuan and the rest were riding on a cloud as they flew carefully above the lake.


    Hong Lingtong looked down at the dark and silent lake waters. "This lake has horror within. I sense that one will lose their life upon entering it."


    "Don''t touch the lake''s water," said Qin Yun.


    "Wasn''t it said that many of the array formations have had their strength reduced in the immortal abode? That it is only a test?" Lunatic Zhu, who was standing in front on the left, could not help but comment. The handsome youth, Eighth Zhu beside him said. "Brother, if the strength isn''t reduced greatly, we would definitely die upon entry. In history, even Elder Sword that had grasped the Sword Dao had entered without coming out. The combined strength of the six parties here would die from one strike of Elder Sword if we were in front of him."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Whoever that grasped the Sword Dao was an extremely illustrious existence in history.


    For example, in the present era¡­ Numinous Treasure Mountain, Sword Tower, and the Yue Chapter all had sword immortals! Qin Yun was also considered an itinerant sword immortal. However, in this era, there was no sword immortal that had grasped the Sword Dao!


    "Elder Sword barged in but failed to escape alive! It''s obvious how terrifying the immortal''s array formations are," Eighth Zhu said. "Now, the strength has already been greatly reduced. However, it is still dangerous if you want to obtain any treasure. There''s no such thing as getting treasures easily without any risk. We aren''t Scenic Mountain Sect disciples so if we were to obtain the treasures, Immortal Scenic Yang would be unhappy as well."


    "Will he cause us to die if he''s unhappy?" Lunatic Zhu was worried.


    "We are humans after all. Immortal Scenic Yang would not dare to be that ruthless to form grudges for his descendants," Eighth Zhu said confidently. "Since Sect Master Gong allowed us entry, it also probably illustrates how the array formations have greatly weakened."


    They flew as they spoke.


    Ji Lie suddenly sensed something.


    Phew! Phew!


    His hands expanded to hundreds of feet abruptly. His palms were like tiny hills that struck two areas. Some of the water droplets splattered.


    "Be careful." Qin Yun''s psyche senses were affected; however, his sword intent domain was able to cover eighty feet of his surroundings. He could also sense that a water droplet was flying at him like a bolt of lightning. He waved his hand and a purple beam flew out, striking the water droplet.


    "Miss Yi Xiao, be careful." At that moment, Sixteenth Prince deliberately came closer to Yi Xiao. At the same time, he brandished the whip in his hand. The whip expanded rapidly and struck a spot where a flying water droplet was.


    Sixteenth Prince said with a smile, "Miss Yi Xiao, this array formation is very dangerous. Father Emperor has bestowed me with life-preservation treasures. You will be a lot safer following me."


    "There''s no need." Yi Xiao leaned closer to Qin Yun.


    "It''s fine. Let''s just help each other." Sixteenth Prince''s eyebrows ticked up but he remained very warm.


    Qin Yun frowned slightly.


    Sixteenth Prince sure was thick-skinned. Qin Yun had used his sword intent domain to discover the water droplet hidden in the darkness but Sixteenth Prince had also managed to notice it. It indicated that the treasures bestowed by Human Emperor were extraordinary. If he lacked strength, treasures could make up for it! Juniors with weak strength could destroy powerful seniors with powerful Dharma treasures. That was also something that commonly happened.


    The effect Dharma treasures had on strength became more obvious from the fourth-grade.


    ¡­


    The six parties moved out together and warded off the water droplets that silently assaulted them.


    The water droplets had strength at the peak Connate True Core realm but their advantage was their unpredictability and that they could not be seen with the naked eye. It was very difficult to discover them using normal methods.


    "This is only the beginning. The first array formation after entering the grand hall." Qin Yun thought to himself. "We haven''t even seen a single Dharma treasure."


    Sou!


    Deacon Yuan, who was up ahead, suddenly transformed into a stream of light that shot forward.


    As he charged ahead, the rest discovered that at the dark end far ahead there was a Dharma treasure slowly flying over that was wrapped in a gas bubble. Inside the gas bubble was a flying sword.


    "White Dew flying sword! A first-grade Dharma treasure!" Ji Lie and Bai Junyue''s eyes lit up immediately.


    In the Windsand Array in the periphery of the immortal abode, many treasures had been seen. However, there were only two second-grade Dharma treasures. Those treasures combined¡­ were far from a first-grade Dharma treasure!


    The higher the grade of Dharma treasures, the harder it was to raise a grade. Their strength would also become increasingly powerful.


    Qin Yun had the means to cultivate an Intrinsic Flying Sword so he knew very well what materials a first-grade flying sword required. It was five times the amount of materials needed for a second-grade flying sword! Furthermore, it had to be cultivated by a senior that had grasped the Sword Dao. An existence that had grasped the Sword Dao could only produce one Intrinsic Flying Sword their entire life! Therefore, how difficult was it to produce a first-grade flying sword?


    A first-grade Dharma treasure was worth at least seven to eight times and up to ten times more than a second-grade Dharma treasure.


    The number of first-grade Dharma treasures in the world were limited!


    Furthermore, the Yue Chapter''s flying swords, Azure Water and White Dew were cultivated by two of the most illustrious female sword immortals in Yue Chapter''s history. The duo had an extremely close relationship and was adept at joining forces. Even the first-grade Intrinsic Flying Swords they cultivated could fuse with each other.


    The Yue Chapter only had three first-grade Dharma treasures at present! The three combined could not even match the fusion of the White and Azure swords.


    The White and Azure swords were also the most important cornerstone treasures of the Yue Chapter.


    Every generation, the Yue Chapter''s sword immortals would wish for the two swords to reunite again.


    "Phew."


    When Deacon Yuan approached it, the gas bubble burst, unleashing countless water droplets in an assault. Every droplet had the might of the peak Connate True Core realm. Such a concentrated barrage of attacks made it a lot more terrifying.


    "I think it''s better that this White Dew flying sword becomes the possession of my Ji family." Ji Lie flew over as well. Simultaneously, he extended his hand and his palm expanded to several hundred feet long as he smacked out directly.


    "Break!"


    Deacon Yuan''s face was flushed red. Three flying swords around him flew out and spun around, tearing through all the water droplets in front of him. He extended his hand to grab White Dew, his eyes filled with maniacal glee.


    However, the gigantic palm behind him came striking over.


    "Out." Deacon Yuan waved his hand.


    A dazzling white beam streaked through the air as it headed for the gigantic palm.


    A first-grade Dharma treasure, White Ape flew out!


    Not including the White Dew, the Yue Chapter only had three first-grade Dharma treasures. One of them was not a flying sword! This time, they had brought an important flying sword, White Ape, along!


    The bald elder''s face suffused a hideous smile as a black metallic layer appeared over his palm. With the Ji imperial family''s heritage, he had naturally brought along a first-grade Dharma treasure, the Fiend Annihilation Hand.


    The divine power, Power Arms! The Dharma treasure, Fiend Annihilation Hand!


    "Seal!" Ji Lie watched everything with a hideous smile.


    Boom! Although White Ape was fast in its telekinesis, it was still sent flying backward with a loud explosion before returning to Deacon Yuan''s side.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Stars began to fly over. Bai Junyue was watching over coldly as she said sternly, "Leave the flying sword, White Dew behind."


    As long as they obtained White Dew, they could think of means to force the Yue Chapter to hand over Azure Water. In time, they could use treasures to entice the Yue Chapter. With the carrot and stick approach, and the fact that the Yue Chapter had no hope of obtaining White Dew, it was possible that the Yue Chapter would submit! Once the flying swords, White Dew and Azure Water fused, they could match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    "Boom! Boom!" The bald elder''s gargantuan palms came pressing down.


    The stars came hurtling over.


    Although Deacon Yuan controlled his flying swords to block them, his face turned increasingly red.


    "Pfft." A mouthful of blood spewed out.


    He was not Ji Lie''s match to begin with, much less when Bai Junyue took action as well.


    "Even if I die, I''ll send White Dew back to my Yue Chapter." Deacon Yuan suddenly controlled his sword to plummet down into the lake. He had nowhere to escape to so he could only struggle for survival in the hopeless situation. "This lake might possess great danger but Immortal Scenic Yang should have left behind a chance for survival."


    "Boom!" The lake water splashed with a quake.


    Deacon Yuan had already controlled his sword to fly into the depths of the lake.

 148 No one is to snatch it from me!

    Chapter 148: No one is to snatch it from me!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and company watched the lake. The battle between the two parties was just too fast.


    The moment Deacon Yuan grabbed the White Dew, he was besieged by Ji Lie and Bai Junyue. The imposing might they exuded was something that made even Qin Yun refrain from taking part. Ji Lie''s advantage was his domineering power. With his Godfiend lineage physique, coupled with his Divine Powers, the might of his palms was astonishing. Even Deacon Yuan''s first-grade flying sword at full strength was sent flying! Qin Yun knew that even if he were to use all his strength, it was unlikely that there would be much of a difference between his strength and Deacon Yuan''s.


    If Ji Lie''s advantage was his pure physical dominance, then Bai Junyue''s advantage was her odd ruthlessness. Sixteen of the stars she controlled could be launched in a ballistic attack, forcing one to put all their focus on defending against each and every one of the stars.


    With the two of them joining forces, Deacon Yuan instantly realized that he was outmatched. He knew he would likely lose his life in a few moves so he decided to escape into the lake waters.


    "Boom!" The lake''s waters surged violently. After an explosive hum was emitted, blood began to permeate the surface of the lake.


    "Sister, is he dead?" Bai Junyu asked.


    Bai Junyue remained very cold as she looked down. "He managed to escape quickly. However, he''s only injured. This bit of blood was probably a result of him deliberately spitting some out to confuse us. But from what I can sense with my Dharma treasure, I can tell that he is still alive and escaping rapidly."


    "He sure has some guts," said Ji Lie with a scoff.


    They did not pursue him as there were still many treasures in the immortal abode that were more important than White Dew.


    Phew.


    Everyone continued flying.


    However, Qin Yun and company were beginning to feel the pressure.


    "Trouble. This is going to be trouble." Eighth Zhu conversed with his elder brother, Zhu Feng, who was standing beside him. "Brother, Ji Lie and the Bai family are too ruthless. Even Deacon Yuan failed to resist them. Even if we align ourselves with the Yi family and Qin Yun, we might still not be Ji Lie''s match. Ji Lie''s Divine Powers are too ridiculous and his realm is extremely high. How are we to fight him? Any treasure we obtain will be snatched away. How infuriating."


    "Ji Lie won''t be able to kill me," Lunatic Zhu said with a voice transmission. "Eighth Brother, I''ll be able to withstand him."


    "You can withstand him but can you fight back? Can you pose a threat to him?" Eighth Zhu replied with a voice transmission.


    Lunatic Zhu was immediately silenced.


    "When we obtain treasures, Brother, just escape immediately with whatever you have it in hand. It''s not like Ji Lie can kill you," said Eighth Zhu with a voice transmission. "Of course, I estimate that if it''s only a first-grade Dharma treasure, Ji Lie will not bother to kill us even if he takes action."


    "Yea," Lunatic Zhu nodded as well. "Our Zhu family isn''t one to be messed with."


    Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu, as well as Yi Fenggu, might have been feeling some pressure, but the entities backing them were extremely powerful.


    If it was only a first-grade Dharma treasure, the royal Ji family might not dare to kill them over it. However, if it were a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or Numinous treasure, the royal Ji family was definitely capable of abandoning decorum. After all, it was only the killing of two juniors.


    In the whole group, only Qin Yun and Deacon Yuan were the ones with insignificant backgrounds!


    To be precise, Qin Yun''s background was the most meaningless!


    There was also one person, the array formation expert, Fang Yu, who had come with Deacon Yuan. After Deacon Yuan escaped, Fang Yu did not dare jump into the lake. He could only follow the group obediently, silently staying right in the back while keeping a low profile.


    "I wouldn''t dare to snatch powerful Dharma treasures but if it''s something weaker, such as third or fourth-grade Dharma treasures, I should be fine getting one or two, right? They wouldn''t kill me to snatch that kind of treasure, right?" Fang Yu thought to himself.


    ¡­


    The group rode on a cloud and quickly flew out of the dark lake''s vicinity.


    The surroundings gradually turned cold.


    Beneath them was a vast expanse of snow. There were snowflakes fluttering in the sky and the temperature was so cold that even cultivators like Qin Yun could not endure it. They immediately manipulated their Quintessential Essence to insulate themselves from the biting cold.


    Clearly, they had entered the field of another array formation.


    "We have already passed through the previous array formation?" Zhu Feng said immediately. "It didn''t feel that dangerous."


    "It''s fine if you do not attempt to seize the treasures, but it will become dangerous if you attempt to do so," Eighth Zhu said. "Deacon Yuan was forced to escape into the lake. What happened to him is still a mystery."


    "Take good care of yourselves first," said Sixteenth Prince with a scoff.


    Next, Sixteenth Prince smiled and said to Yi Xiao, "Miss Yi Xiao, with me and Elder Lie here, you can feel at ease."


    Yi Xiao did not say a word.


    Qin Yun shot a glance at Sixteenth Prince, and Sixteenth Prince looked right back at him. He said with a faint smile, "Qin Yun, we have just entered and we haven''t even seen any transcendent-grade Dharma treasures or Numinous treasures. Are you already afraid? If you are afraid, it''s best you return now."


    "You cannot return," Eighth Zhu said immediately. "We entered by following the array formations. They make it so it¡¯s fine to enter, but make exiting very difficult! The safest way is to follow Immortal Scenic Yang''s arrangements and follow the path. Do not go against the array formations and try to walk about randomly."


    "Oh," Sixteenth Prince said with a smile. "So it''s already too late even if you did want to leave now."


    "Your Highness, there''s no need for you worry about me," said Qin Yun.


    "I''ll definitely protect Miss Yi Xiao. As for you, I won¡¯t help you at all." Sixteenth Prince scoffed.


    "I do not need Your Highness''s help either. My family''s patriarch has given me enough treasures to fend for myself." Yi Xiao retorted. Sixteenth Prince faltered slightly but smiled through his thick skin.


    Suddenly, sixteen of the stars that were revolving around Bai Junyue flew out and struck a snow layer a distance away. Immediately, a gargantuan snow giant stood up from the layer of snow and rushed forward.


    The snow giant was as huge and mighty as a mountain.


    "Hmph," Bai Junyue grunted coldly.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The sixteen stars circled around the snow giant and unleashed a barrage of attacks on it, eventually dissipating it. It melted, leaving behind a palm-sized ice block. The ice block was crystalline with countless runic patterns on it.


    "First-grade Ice Talisman Amulet?" When Ji Lie saw this and the twenty stars revolving around Bai Junyue, he frowned slightly. "As a Dharma treasure, this Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle is indeed powerful. Its perception of the world¡­ is much more powerful than my intent domain range. I didn''t even sense the danger lurking under the snow but she discovered and destroyed it ahead of me. Furthermore, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle is famous for its defense. It can create a perfect defense, not to mention she probably has other life-preservation items on her."


    The only person present that left Ji Lie vexed was Bai Junyue.


    Without her treasures, Bai Junyue was probably on Deacon Yuan''s level.


    However, Bai Junyue''s Dharma treasure, Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle, was too perfect. Although it was first-grade as well, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle was much more valuable than the White Dew and the Ice Talisman Amulet.


    "Phew."


    Bai Junyue extended her hand and held the Ice Talisman Amulet. Her cold expression finally revealed a hint of a smile.


    Suddenly, the blob of light in the sky expanded.


    It emitted beams of light that scattered through the fluttering snowflakes. They brought with it frosty blasts of wind that blew at extremely fast speeds and bombarded Qin Yun and company.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!" Qin Yun released a flying sword to circle his surroundings, protecting himself, Hong Lingtong, as well as Yi Xiao and Yi Fenggu.


    "Young Master Qin, your flying sword arts are truly powerful," said Yi Fenggu thankfully with a voice transmission.


    "Let''s go. The array formation is about to trigger," said Eighth Zhu immediately.


    "Let''s leave quickly." Hong Lingtong''s countenance changed slightly as he sent a voice transmission to Qin Yun. "This array formation''s might will only keep growing stronger."


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The group quickly flew off.


    More and more of the beams of light that the blob of light in the sky released were scattered by the snowflakes, increasing the frosty beams of light exponentially.


    Qin Yun also faced them seriously.


    "Sou!"


    The group finally rushed out of the snow land and came to a vast plain. Occasionally, the sky would send a bolt of lightning crashing down.


    "Boom!" "Boom!"


    In between the heaven and earth, there would be occasional bolts of lightning that appeared like dendritic lightning branches.


    "The Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma is currently the world''s best Lightning Dharma." Ji Lie smiled when he saw the scene as he said, "But a long time ago, when Scenic Mountain Sect was still a Daoist sacred land, the best Lightning Dharma in the world was the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning. Back then, the Divine Firmament Chapter was only a top cultivation sect. If I''m not wrong, hidden within this array formation is the first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet."


    "With the Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet, Connate Golden Core cultivators that are skilled in the Lightning Dharma can use it to produce Capital Heaven Divine Lightning." Bai Junyue nodded as well. "Unfortunately, the Scenic Mountain Sect''s cultivation formulations are incomplete. It has been a long time since this world has truly seen the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning. It''s unknown if Sect Master Gong will be able to find the cultivation formulations of the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning in the Dao Repository."


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and company were secretly alarmed.


    Capital Heaven Divine Lightning?


    It was extremely domineering, with it being able to vanquish gods, immortals, and fiends!


    Unfortunately, the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning and Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma had never appeared in the same era before. It was unknown which was the better of the two.


    "According to what I know, Immortal Scenic Yang only left behind three first-grade treasures. The White Dew has already been snatched by Deacon Yuan. As for the first-grade Ice Talisman Amulet, Fairy Bai has taken it. Now, this first-grade talisman amulet¡­shall be mine." Ji Lie scanned his surroundings intently. "No one is to snatch it from me! If you try, don''t blame me for being ruthless!"


    As the strongest person present, Ji Lie was fuming that he had not received a single powerful Dharma treasure.


    "Who gets the treasure depends on each person''s capabilities," said Bai Junyue softly.


    Ji Lie turned to look at Bai Junyue as his face sank.


    Bai Junyue''s expression remained cold. She couldn''t be bothered to look at him.


    Everyone rode the cloud and flew carefully into the lightning world¡­


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Suddenly, a lightning bolt appeared above Qin Yun and company. Dozens of lightning bolts then gathered together before collectively striking at them.


    "Oh no."


    "Be careful!"


    "Block it."


    The lightning came too fast. Everyone quickly used all their might to withstand it.


    Qin Yun released his flying sword to defend his surroundings. He protected himself, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Fenggu.


    "Scatter." Yi Xiao held up a fourth-grade Divine Firmament talisman amulet. She directed the surrounding lightning and diverted it elsewhere. She was the only one present that was adept at the Lightning Dharma. Furthermore, she was already in the beginning stages of the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma.


    "Phew."


    Accompanied by the violent and surging lightning, a stream of light flashed and shot toward Yi Xiao''s bosom directly.


    Yi Xiao extended her hand to grab it. A green color talisman amulet that resembled a jade talisman appeared in her hand. It had countless profound runic patterns engraved on it and there were lightning bolts crackling around it.


    "The Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet? The first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet?" Yi Xiao found it unbelievable as well. "It-it actually came straight into my hand?"


    At that moment, Qin Yun, Sixteenth Prince, Hong Lingtong, Eighth Zhu, and everyone else turned to look at Yi Xiao. They were all somewhat dumbfounded. The first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet had taken the initiative to enter Yi Xiao''s hand?


    Bai Junyue and Ji Lie also looked at the dark green talisman amulet that was crackling with lightning bolts in Yi Xiao''s hand.


    "Give it to me!" Ji Lie glared at Yi Xiao. His eyes were filled with bloodlust as he bellowed coldly.

 149 Sixteenth Princes Clou

    Chapter 149: Sixteenth Prince''s Clout


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    There were still lightning sparks crackling around but Ji Lie, with his Godfiend lineage, was not bothered by the lightning bolts. They only felt like an itch even if they struck him. At that moment, his eyes were staring at Yi Xiao with bloodlust. "Young lady, I''ve already said that the Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet is mine. Hand it over to me now, do you hear me?"


    Ji Lie believed that such a weak junior had no means to resist him.


    "Senior Ji Lie," Yi Xiao looked up at Ji Lie as she felt her heart tighten. She said softly, "This Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet had taken the initiative to fly toward me. It¡­"


    "That''s right, Elder Lie." Sixteenth Prince said under his breath, "That Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet had indeed flown toward Miss Yi Xiao on its own accord. That''s truly strange. Perhaps, it''s truly fated with Miss Yi Xiao."


    As he spoke, Sixteenth Prince continued smiling at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao also felt the pressure on her alleviate slightly.


    In addition, Sixteenth Prince even sent a voice transmission, "Elder Lie, our goal here is for the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron, and the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet. Compared to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and a Numinous treasure¡­this Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet is comparatively unimportant. Besides, Yi Xiao comes from the Yi family after all. There is no need for us to lose decorum with the Yi family over a first-grade Dharma treasure, isn''t that so?"


    Ji Lie frowned and turned to look at Sixteenth Prince. With a deep voice, he shouted, "Shut up!"


    Sixteenth Prince''s expression stiffened.


    Shut up?


    Was he asked to shut up?


    Furthermore, he was berated openly? There was Yi Xiao around, as well as experts from various parties. Sixteenth Prince could not help but feel pangs of fury rise up in him.


    "Elder Lie," Sixteenth Prince gritted his teeth and said with a voice transmission. "I didn''t say anything wrong. It''s only a first-grade Dharma treasure, not a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or Numinous treasure! Why do you need to be so angry that you aren''t even giving me face?"


    When Ji Lie heard the voice transmission, he turned even more infuriated.


    Fool!


    There were a total of three first-grade Dharma treasures. Deacon Yuan and Bai Junyue had both obtained one. He was bent on obtaining the final one. He had even said so in advance! The treasure was his and he had demanded Yi Xiao directly for it¡­ If anyone dared to obstruct him, he was prepared to strike out with a slap! Who knew that the person that objected to it was his partner, the Sixteenth Prince. It wasn''t appropriate to beat him so it only made Ji Lie turn increasingly vexed.


    He could ignore it if others came forward to stop him. You, a member of my party, actually came to smack me in the face?


    The way Ji Lie looked at Sixteenth Prince turned a lot colder and harsher. "Ji Hongyi, do you think so little of a first-grade Dharma treasure?"


    Sixteenth Prince was taken aback.


    Ji Lie added coldly, "I have already reached the intent domain realm. I have fought in wars for His Majesty, and all I use is a second-grade Dharma treasure! If not for this trip to the immortal abode and to vie for the Numinous treasure, I''ll probably not have a chance to use the first-grade Dharma treasure, Fiend Annihilation Hand. Besides, most Connate Golden Core cultivators in this world only use a third-grade Dharma treasure. It''s already very rare to use a second-grade Dharma treasure. Fairy Bai¡­ Your Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle was also bestowed upon you only for this trip to the immortal abode, right?"


    Bai Junyue frowned slightly. She grunted and spoke no further.


    However, it was the truth.


    The first-grade Dharma treasure, Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle, was something Bai Junyue was unqualified to use most of the time!


    Due to a lack of strength, bringing along overly powerful Dharma treasures out could result in powerful fiendish demons murdering and robbing them away! Bai Junyue could fight Ji Lie in a battle with the help of her Dharma treasure but in this world¡­ there were many people that were stronger than Ji Lie at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "It''s something I''m not even qualified to use. As for you, you will probably not use a first-grade Dharma treasure your entire life." Ji Lie looked at Sixteenth Prince. "For a mere woman, you are actually giving her a first-grade Dharma treasure?"


    "Elder Lie." Sixteenth Prince''s expression was ugly.


    "Remember His Majesty''s instructions. Keep your mind clear." Ji Lie said coldly. He was still somewhat courteous with the Sixteenth Prince on account of His Majesty. But did he truly think anything of a prince in his heart?


    Human Emperor was a terrifying expert that stood atop at the pinnacle of the world. He had established an empire and ruled the world! He had reigned for three centuries and there were a bunch of princes and princesses. Even if Sixteenth Prince died of old age, Human Emperor would probably remain extremely young as he continued reigning from his throne.


    Although the royal family nurtured Sixteenth Prince as best as they could due to his above-average talent, even so, his growth was inferior to true geniuses like Zhu Feng, Eighth Zhu, and Yi Xiao. He was not even comparable to the heaven-defying Qin Yun who was only an itinerant cultivator. The chances of him reaching the Connate Golden Core realm were low and even if he truly entered the Connate Golden Core realm, that would only give him a lifespan of five hundred years! Five centuries later, Human Emperor would still remain alive and well, but Sixteenth Prince would have been reduced to dust.


    It was the same with the Yi family, the Bai family, the Zhu family, the Zhongli family, and many other ancient families.


    Their patriarchs became immortals or gods with extremely long lifespans. They would remain alive as their descendants grew older and died.


    Why would Ji Lie bother about a junior that would forever be a prince?


    He reprimanded the Sixteenth Prince directly, making him know his place so that he would not give him any further trouble.


    Failure was not an option for the mission. If Ji Lie rendered meritorious service, Human Emperor might reward him heavily in his joy. Therefore, Ji Lie naturally wanted to obtain as much as possible from the immortal''s cave abode.


    ¡­


    After being reprimanded by Ji Lie, Sixteenth Prince fell silent. He did not even look at Yi Xiao again.


    "This Sixteenth Prince sure is dumb." Eighth Zhu said to Zhu Feng with a voice transmission. "There are so many princes and princesses in the imperial government. And with time, there will only be more. So what if they are princes and princesses? Their statuses are inferior to Connate Golden Core realm cultivators."


    Zhu Feng nodded and said with a voice transmission. "When this Sixteenth Prince dies from old age, his father would still be sitting on the throne. Do you think Ji Lie will be afraid of him?"


    "Sixteenth Prince got rebuked from speaking out. From the looks of it, this old fellow is bent on obtaining that first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet. That''s right. The transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and Numinous treasure are too valuable, so they will likely be delivered to higher powers. As for this first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet, it might be possible that Human Emperor might bestow it to the old fellow in his joy," said Eighth Zhu with a voice transmission. "The Yi family''s name is not enough to scare him."


    ¡­


    After rebuking the Sixteenth Prince, Ji Lie looked at Yi Xiao with a sunken expression. "Quick, hand it over. Don''t force my hand."


    Yi Fenggu, who was standing beside Yi Xiao, bellowed immediately, "Ji Lie, all of us entered with the tokens. The vying of treasure by the six parties depends on our capabilities and luck. Now that the treasure has landed in Yi Xiao''s hand, you still want to rob it from her? Isn''t that going overboard? Does my Yi family not have the right to take even a first-grade Dharma treasure? If we go according to your wishes, we might as well have a sparring contest outside the immortal abode. And all the treasure will simply be given to whoever is strongest."


    "Yi Fenggu," Ji Lie scoffed. "Didn''t Fairy Bai obtain the Ice Talisman Amulet while Deacon Yuan obtain the flying sword, White Dew? As long as one is strong and ruthless enough to escape from me, you can completely take it for your own."


    "If you cannot withstand it, then there''s no other way." Ji Lie shook his head. "Fairy Bai was right. The snatching of treasures depends on each person''s capabilities. If you lack the capability, hand the Dharma treasure over."


    Yi Fenggu had a grim expression. "If it were a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or Numinous treasure, we wouldn''t even think of vying over it. With our patriarch only sending Yi Xiao and me here, it is equivalent to us giving up the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and the Numinous treasure! Are you not even leaving a first-grade Dharma treasure for our Yi family?"


    "Bullshit!"


    Ji Lie scoffed. "You sure made it sound good. Isn''t it only because your Yi family has one person at the Connate Golden Core realm in this generation!? And that person fears to take the risk?"


    Yi Fenggu clenched his teeth.


    Ji Lie''s expression turned cold as he looked at Yi Xiao. "Miss Yi Xiao, it''s on account of your patriarch that I have not directly taken action! If you do not obediently hand it over, it looks like I''ll have to take action personally."


    Yi Fenggu and Yi Xiao looked at each other.


    Ji Lie thought nothing of the Yi family! So what if he bullied them? Him obtaining the first-grade Dharma treasure was a true and salient benefit. Consider the Yue Chapter, a top cultivation sect that had existed since ancient times to present day, if not for them obtaining White Dew, the sect only had three first-grade Dharma treasures! When Deacon Yuan and company traveled the world, they typically did not bring first-grade Dharma treasures with them. Without the strength to protect it, they would rather place it in the sect.


    Sects had array formations set up over generations. Unless immortals or fiendcelestials came storming the sect, it was extremely difficult to be overrun.


    "What do we do, Second Uncle?" Yi Xiao asked Yi Fenggu. Yi Fenggu was the decision maker in the Yi family''s expedition. "Second Uncle, we are no match for Ji Lie."


    "I have no patience to¡ª" Ji Lie extended his hand as his arm expanded rapidly while whizzing over.


    Phew.


    A flying sword that resembled mist or rain clashed directly with Ji Lie''s palm. A loud boom was produced as a shockwave blasted outward. It even left the clouds beneath their feet vibrating in response.


    "Oh?" Ji Lie retracted his palm as his expression sank.


    Everyone around looked over.


    Qin Yun had taken a step forward to stand in front of Yi Xiao. As he protected Yi Xiao behind him, he looked at Ji Lie and said, "With me here, you won''t touch her."


    Yi Xiao turned anxious when she saw this. "Qin Yun, don''t clash with him. At most, I''ll give him the Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet."


    The competition for Dharma treasures was done for their family clans.


    Yi Xiao would rather give it up then see Qin Yun risk himself.


    "Yi Xiao," Qin Yun turned to look at her and said with a smile. "Since this Ji Lie disparages your Yi family, it probably shows how little he thinks of an itinerant cultivator like me. If I were to obtain any powerful Dharma treasure, he will still take action. In that case, it''s better to settle it now. I want to let him know that he doesn''t have the right to be presumptuous."


    "Hahahaha¡­" Ji Lie could not help but laugh when he heard that. "What an audacious tone. You? A junior at the Connate False Core realm? An Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?"

 150 Engaging in Combat Part 1/2

    Ji Lie truly found it laughable.


    What a joke! An Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador dared to make the claim in front of him that he didn''t have the right to be presumptuous?


    "Brother Qin Yun, what are you doing?" Hong Lingtong was left a little flabbergasted. He hurriedly sent a voice transmission. "That is Ji Lie. Even the Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal, Deacon Yuan was not his match! You want to resist him?"


    "Deacon Yuan was no match because Ji Lie and Bai Junyue were joining forces. But in the end, didn''t Deacon Yuan still escape?" said Qin Yun through a voice transmission.


    "But you aren''t Deacon Yuan! Deacon Yuan is still a Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal after all. Brother Qin Yun, you are being too rash." Hong Lingtong found it inexplicable. Why was he clashing with the strongest Ji Lie? Didn''t he see that the Bai family, the Zhu family, and the rest were maintaining their silence?


    Standing by the side, Bai Junyue and Bai Junyu were also somewhat astonished.


    "Interesting." Bai Junyue watched the scene unfold before her indifferently.


    "Sister, is that what''s called love? Love makes one go blind?" Bai Junyu asked with a voice transmission.


    "Watch." Bai Junyue looked at how Qin Yun was protecting Yi Xiao while standing in front of her. This could not help but stir up memories of her past. The coldness in her face also seemed to melt slightly.


    Zhu Feng and Eighth Zhu stared with widened eyes as the situation unfolded.


    Fang Yu held his breath as he dodged to the side. He was afraid of being implicated. He was the weakest person present and had no backing. All he wished was to scavenge the benefits, afraid of involving himself in any of the conflicts.


    Sixteenth Prince was standing aside. He had an ugly expression after being rebuked. At that moment, he was shooting a glance at Qin Yun, who was protecting Yi Xiao behind him, and thinking to himself, "Fool. I haven''t even dealt with you, but you have volunteered to send yourself to your death. Are you trying to contend for her favor by standing up for Yi Xiao at this moment? If you don''t have the strength to resist, don''t you go blaming others when you lose your life."


    ¡­


    All the parties present were astonished at Qin Yun''s actions. They believed that he was overestimating his strength and that it was a pointless endeavor.


    After all, the difference was truly huge.


    "Hahaha¡­" At that moment, Ji Lie was still guffawing to the point of tears brimming in his eyes.


    "Interesting, truly interesting. A junior at the Connate False Core realm dares to be this arrogant after having a lucky chance of becoming an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. As expected of an itinerant cultivator, you really do not know a thing." Ji Lie looked at Qin Yun. "Kid, do you know that many Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors are not my match. That Deacon Yuan is also a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. If not for him escaping quickly, I could have smacked him to death!"


    "Deacon Yuan is a sword immortal and can engage in Sword Kinesis Flight. He naturally can escape quickly," said Qin Yun. "This is the advantage of the sword immortal lineage after all."


    "He is a Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal, while you are only at the Connate False Core realm. Do you think you can escape from me?" Ji Lie''s expression gradually sank. He smiled hideously as he said, "Alright, since you want to be a hero in front of a woman and have a death wish, I''ll grant you your wish! Die!"


    With that, he decisively showed no mercy. He struck out with his palm as his arm expanded to several hundred feet. His hill-sized palm began to blanket the area as his eyes were filled with coldness.


    He had previously agreed to the Sixteenth Prince''s request of finding an opportunity to have Qin Yun killed.


    Killing Qin Yun was a trivial matter, so even though Sixteenth Prince had rebutted him, he was still planning on fulfilling his promise.


    However, in his original plan, he wanted to use the immortal abode''s array formations as they searched for the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and Numinous treasure. In a dangerous situation, he could secretly give Qin Yun a nudge that would send him to his death. Others would not know of it and it would be done cleanly. Wasn''t that better? However, with Qin Yun challenging him defiantly as though he was courting death, Ji Lie had no qualms about giving him the killing blow.


    After all, he was only a mere itinerant cultivator. There were no repercussions from killing him at all.


    "Go!"


    A sharp glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes as he released his Intrinsic Flying Sword. At the same time, he sent the cloud that Yi Xiao, Yi Fenggu, and Hong Lingtong were standing on backward. He opened up a gap between them while protecting them.


    "Boom!" Thundering sounds rumbled as the flying sword flew out like a bolt of lightning or a tidal wave. It was ferocious in might and even the flying sword''s body turned into a blur. It directly and powerfully clashed with the massive palm.


    Half a year had passed since he had slain the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain. Qin Yun''s sword intent domain had already increased its range to eighty feet. From one angle, this reflected Qin Yun''s insights into the Heavenly Dao. Even the Misty Rain Sword Art had turned more complete and its strength had improved. The move that improved the most was Lightning Tide. This strike was extremely domineering!


    At the moment the flying sword clashed with the palm¡ª


    Boom!


    Visible concentric shockwaves blasted outward. Even the cloud beneath the feet of those watching from afar vibrated vigorously.


    Ji Lie could sense that the palm he struck out received waves that inundated his palm, penetrating it when it clashed with the flying sword. Each wave was stronger than the other, as though they contained the might of the Heaven and Earth! It caused his strike''s might to drastically reduce.


    "How is his flying sword art so powerful?" Ji Lie was alarmed. "He is only a mere Connate False Core realm sword immortal. Why is his flying sword''s might not inferior to Deacon Yuan''s?"


    However, he was unaware.


    Half a year ago, Qin Yun''s flying sword art was enough to match a Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal. If not for Deacon Yuan having the first-grade flying sword, White Ape, he was probably weaker than Qin Yun.


    "Impressive."


    "He''s only slightly at the disadvantage?"


    "Ji Lie probably will not be able to take down Qin Yun with only one hand."


    Watching from the side, Eighth Zhu, Zhu Feng, and company were rather astonished.


    Hong Lingtong was astounded, "I only sensed that Qin Yun is very strong but I never expected him to be this strong. But Ji Lie had only used one palm because he was overly confident. If he were to turn serious, Qin Yun would be in trouble." Hong Lingtong remained worried.


    Yi Xiao secretly heaved a sigh of relief when she saw the situation. She had a little confidence for she knew that Qin Yun''s strongest sword move was Bright Moon Over River.


    "Take another one of my strikes!" Ji Lie bellowed. This time, he did not dare to go easy. He struck out with both his hands, with arms expanding to what seemed like two towering pillars! The two gargantuan palms enveloped the area.


    "Kill!"


    As Qin Yun watched the two massive palms hurling at him, his mind stirred. The misty rainlike flying sword suffused a redness and turned extremely harsh. The air seemed to smell of blood as combat roars sounded. Shoo! Shoo! The blood-colored sword beam flashed in a distorted fashion in midair as it directly struck the two gigantic palms only to be sent tumbling away eventually.


    It was like a brave warrior in the battlefield that charged forward fiercely, only to be eventually sent retreating helplessly.


    Misty Rain Sword Art''s Blood Runs Cold!


    "The difference is still too great," thought Qin Yun. "Once this Ji Lie turns serious, my ordinary flying sword arts pose no threat to him."


    "For an itinerant cultivator to have such strength, you are truly talented. Unfortunately!" Ji Lie''s eyes suffused coldness as his hands showed no mercy. Two of his massive palms continued smacking forward.


    "Please receive another one of my attacks," said Qin Yun loudly.


    Following that, a flying sword streaked across the sky. It was too fast, so fast that it transformed into a dazzling beam of light. Even the spectators could feel that the sword resembled a bright moon that rose after splitting a river apart.


    A bright moon rose above the river.


    The strike was as beautiful as a dream.


    This was no longer a technique to kill but a piece of art, a poem. It left people involuntarily attracted to it and be intoxicated by it.


    A sword beam began to rise like a bright moon as it instantly appeared in front of Ji Lie.


    "That''s fast." Ji Lie could not help but panic as he used all his strength to strike forward with his palms. Boom!


    The flying sword was blocked!


    Shoo!


    However, the flying sword continued its barrage. It formed a moon-like sword beam, attacking time and time again. Ji Lie frantically brandished his palms, blocking in every direction. Thankfully, his palms were large enough. But even so, he had to use all his strength to ensure an impenetrable defense so as to prevent Qin Yun''s flying sword from coming within thirty feet from him.


    The reason why he maintained a thirty feet radius was to protect Sixteenth Prince,


    "It''s too fast. His flying sword is too fast. How is it so fast?" Ji Lie did not even dare to increase the size of his arms any further. If it became too long, the region he needed to defend against increased. He lacked the confidence of having a successful defense.


    It was too fast.


    It was even too beautiful, so beautiful that it touched one''s soul.


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    "Ji Lie is only defending?"


    "He has been forced to defend?"


    Everyone was stunned agape.


    Bai Junyu could not help but say, "Sister, why do I feel that Qin Yun''s flying sword is stronger than Deacon Yuan''s flying sword?"


    "You aren''t wrong. Qin Yun''s flying sword is faster. Ignoring the previous flying sword moves, this attack is truly beautiful." Bai Junyue nodded. "In terms of state, this flying sword strike of Qin Yun''s is on a higher level than Deacon Yuan''s flying sword. However, his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers are weaker; if not, this attack would be a lot more terrifying."


    "That powerful?" Bai Junyu was taken aback.


    Bai Junyue nodded. "Even I find this sword art so beautiful that it seems otherworldly. I believe that not only has Qin Yun reached the realm of intent domain, he has also perfectly fused his strong emotions and sword intent insight. Under certain opportunities, he managed to create such a perfect sword art."


    Just like when an artist''s skill reached an extremely high level, the art they produced would be of a rather high level when they put their mind to it. But works that were truly at the pinnacle numbered one or two in one''s life. The creation of such works depended on unique circumstances, special opportunities, state of mind, and the right feelings.


    There were also legendary cultivators that might create many attacks but the truly powerful and legendary attacks were just one or two.


    Bright Moon Over River was one of those moves.


    "Qin Yun."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun who was in front of her. He had used his sword art, Bright Moon Over River, standing up for her, and as a results, forced Ji Lie to only be capable of defense.


    At that moment, Yi Xiao felt sweet joy in her heart.


    She also knew the origins of the sword move.


    "Great!" Ji Lie laughed as a result of his extreme anger. "What an impressive Qin Yun for you to create such a flying sword art. I have underestimated you. However, do you think this flying sword can do anything to me?"


    Ji Lie suddenly unleashed a barrage of attacks with both his palms.


    He completely ignored Qin Yun''s flying sword and allowed it to strike at him.


    He cultivated in the Godfiend lineage and at his physical cultivation''s level, he could withstand the flying sword. He wanted to deal with Qin Yun even at the cost of injury. As long as he ignored the flying sword, he was confident that his body could withstand the flying sword. As for the Sixteenth Prince? Who was to protect him?


    "Hongyi, His Majesty bestowed you with life-preservation items. Hold on for a while. You just need to do so for about five seconds," said Ji Lie with a voice transmission.


    The color in Sixteenth Prince''s face drained. "What, Elder Lie, are you abandoning me?"

 151 Engaging in Combat Part 2/2

    "What are you afraid of? Do you think that Qin Yun will dare to kill you? You are a prince! The son of His Majesty! Besides, don''t you underestimate the life-preservation item His Majesty gave you," bellowed Ji Lie through a voice transmission. He did not believe that the item given by Human Emperor would not be able to withstand the attacks of a junior weaker than he was!


    He had been fending off the flying sword previously with his arms. One reason was that he did not want to deal with Qin Yun at risk of being injured. It would be too pathetic. The second reason was that he had Sixteenth Prince in his charge. He was responsible for protecting him. He felt ashamed that he had to force Sixteenth Prince to use the life-preservation item bestowed by Human Emperor.


    But now, he couldn''t afford to be bothered about that!


    If he kept defending, how long would he be in that state?


    "Die!" Ji Lie''s eyes were red as all his skin suffused a metallic luster. His arms expanded rapidly as he pounced toward Qin Yun. Since he did not defend against Qin Yun''s flying sword, the moon-like sword beam instantly stabbed into his chest.


    "Rip!"


    Ji Lie''s face twitched slightly.


    The clothes draping over his chest was instantly torn open. His chest which suffused a metallic luster had been penetrated as well. With the might of a second-grade Dharma treasure, the flying sword was too fast and sharp. The move, Bright Moon Over River, was also too powerful. It instantly tore through his skin and stabbed into his flesh and bone. However, his body was akin to a powerful Dharma treasure and it was extremely robust. The sword failed to penetrate any deeper after stabbing a few inches deep.


    The flying sword plunged in, streaked down and pulled before rapidly retreating. It left behind a tiny wound in Ji Lie''s chest, which bled dark golden blood. Following that, the wound rapidly healed and the flesh within rapidly recovered.


    "Go."


    Against the whistling arms, the Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a moon-like sword beam and flew back. Simultaneously, Qin Yun released a purple flying sword.


    The purple flying sword came forward and in midair, formed a gigantic hemisphere-shaped barrier of light made of sword beams. It was the Cyclic Sword Flash. This was a move that was at the heart of Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Intent! The Misty Rain Sword Intent was best at defense, so with Cyclic Sword Flash, even if it were powered by a fifth-grade flying sword, it was still able to produce a portion of the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s strength.


    "You dare to use an ordinary Dharma treasure to block? Shatter!" Ji Lie was further incensed after his chest was carved open. Furthermore, Qin Yun was only an itinerant cultivator and only his Intrinsic Flying Sword was a little more powerful. How could he think anything of the other flying swords?


    "Bam." A pair of humongous palms smacked down.


    Following that, Ji Lie was slightly alarmed. He felt that the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier that he struck was extremely smooth. His strength from his palms was instantly diverted away for the barrier was constantly moving to dissipate any energy. The entire light barrier could withstand strikes in any spot.


    However, even though every spot bore the burden of his attacks, Ji Lie''s angry blows from his palms remained extremely terrifying. It was much stronger than Qin Yun''s Bright Moon Over River.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash lasted for an instant before disintegrating!


    Phew.


    The purple flying sword was sent flying backward.


    "It''s true that I won''t be able to defend through the use of a fifth-grade flying sword, even though defense is what I''m most confident of," thought Qin Yun. At that moment, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had long returned.


    In fact, with the speed of Bright Moon Over River, it could injure Ji Lie and return to defend against the two palm strikes in time.


    One reason was that the flying sword was fast, to begin with.


    The second reason was that Bright Moon Over River was an alarmingly fast flying sword art.


    However, Qin Yun wanted to attempt the might of a defensive move produced by a fifth-grade flying sword.


    "A fifth-grade flying sword can''t fend off Ji Lie but it wouldn''t be a problem blocking typical Connate Golden Cores." Qin Yun thought to himself. The only person that could match Ji Lie in the Jiang Prefecture was the Scenic Mountain Sect''s sect master.


    "Phew."


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword did not fight offense with offense.


    Instead, it exhibited Cyclic Sword Flash.


    The gigantic Cyclic Sword Flash''s barrier protected Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Fenggu.


    "See me annihilate this!" Ji Lie had a hideous expression as his arms expanded vigorously before the gigantic palms struck down.


    Bam!


    When it struck the massive Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, its might was dispersed across the barrier. It managed to fully defend against the attack and done so in a rather easy manner.


    "My Misty Rain Sword Intent is best at defense," thought Qin Yun.


    "Impossible!" A strike that was powered by his full strength had been withstood. Ji Lie somewhat refused to accept the fact as his expression turned more hideous. "It has to be that my might was reduced after being blocked by his flying sword from before."


    Indeed, when the fifth-grade flying sword obstructed him with Cyclic Sword Flash, the strength of his palms had been partially reduced.


    "Annihilate!"


    Ji Lie struck with all his strength once again.


    His palms came smiting over with obstreperous might. Even the air was compressed and distorted as it surged in every direction. This might made the people standing afar alarmed. The only one that could dare claim to withstand that attack was Bai Junyue alone! Even Lunatic Zhu would only dare claim that he would not be beaten to death by Ji Lie. He could rely on his physique to escape but had no means to withstand Ji Lie''s blows. All he could do was receive blows without being able to counterattack.


    As for Qin Yun, he was able to completely defend against him. Not a single hair of his fell.


    "Boom!" The palm strikes at full force hit the Cyclic Sword Flash that was produced by the Intrinsic Flying Sword but the barrier was able to completely withstand the blows.


    "What?" Ji Lie was alarmed.


    "No, break apart! You have to break apart!"


    Ji Lie struck out maniacally in anger.


    The pair of palms would at times turn into fists, hand chops, or scrunch up like a claw. It inundated the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier but no matter how much he attacked, the barrier remained impenetrable. Ji Lie only felt that it was like a massive slippery sphere! It was unaffected by force and no matter how he attacked it, he could not crack it. However, he knew from the experience of cracking the Cyclic Sword Flash from the fifth-grade flying sword that as long as he had enough strength, the barrier will eventually disintegrate.


    But! The limit the Cyclic Sword Flash could withstand when produced with the Intrinsic Flying Sword clearly exceeded Ji Lie''s level by a mile.


    "Qin Yun," When Yi Xiao saw this, she heaved a sigh of relief and said smilingly through a voice transmission. "I recall that back when you dealt with the water ape, the difference in strength was huge but you still managed to make a perfect defense."


    "I''m most adept at defense. There is indeed quite a difference between my offensive and defensive arts." Qin Yun said with a voice transmission as well. "Thankfully, I created the Bright Moon Over River that night. With this move, I also have a move that''s considered powerful when it comes to offense."


    Under the enemy''s maniacal attacks, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao chatted through a voice transmission. At that moment, Yi Xiao felt sweet delight.


    "Brother Qin Yun, you, you are way too powerful." Hong Lingtong was dumbstruck. He looked up at the gigantic Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. Outside it, a huge pair of palms were unleashing various attacks in a crazy barrage at the barrier. However, it failed to break it. "Even Ji Lie can''t do a thing to you."


    "I can only defend.'' Qin Yun thought to himself. He waved his hand and released the purple flying sword.


    The purple flying sword easily flew out of the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier and whistled straight for Ji Lie.


    As Ji Lie''s palms were attacking, he did not have the time to stop the fifth-grade flying sword.


    "He has released a flying sword again!" Sixteenth Prince, who had opened up a gap from Ji Lie, felt his heart skip a beat. "He wouldn''t be trying to attack me, right?"


    The purple flying sword transformed into a moon-like sword beam and shot straight at Ji Lie.


    "Let''s see if Ji Lie has any weaknesses," thought Qin Yun.


    "Damn it." Ji Lie saw the flying sword thrusting toward his head and was infuriated.


    Pu!


    When the sword beam arrived, he lowered his head and used his bald scalp to block the sword! He did not dare allow the flying sword to stab his eyes.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The moon-like sword beams continued its relentless assault.


    Fortunately, the attack came from a fifth-grade flying sword. It was weaker in strength and slower. Ji Lie''s adjustment of his body and the lowering of his head was sufficient to prevent the flying sword from hurting his vital spots. But even though his head was extremely hard, his scalp was still lacerated, causing blood stains to cover his head.


    "Thankfully, he didn''t attack me. Even Elder Lie''s skin has been torn apart. How can I defend against that?" Sixteenth Prince shuddered as he watched from afar.


    But in fact, Sixteenth Prince had not taken any action against him despite his verbal provocations. So from Qin Yun''s point of view, there was no need for him to attack Sixteenth Prince.


    Furthermore, he was the son of Human Emperor!


    Unless he was forced into a corner, or the other party didn''t go too far, Qin Yun would not take the initiative to kill a prince. He had to ensure that it would not be exposed forever before he would kill a prince. If not, he would lose decorum with the imperial government! The repercussions were worse than killing a county governor. Even Human Emperor would pay attention to the matter. Although he had many children, a prince was still his son. If his children were taught a lesson and severely injured, Human Emperor would treat it as though they were inferior to others. He would not mind that his children received some setbacks.


    However, once a prince was killed, that was equivalent to challenging Human Emperor.


    Sixteenth Prince had not done anything besides being verbally provocative. As for threatening Ji Lie by attacking Sixteenth Prince? Qin Yun couldn''t be bothered to do so.


    "Sister, look. Qin Yun''s flying sword can transform into a gigantic barrier of light. It feels somewhat similar to our Bai family''s Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle." Bai Junyu sent a voice transmission when she saw the situation. "It similarly creates an all-round defense and does a great job defending."


    "It does resemble the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle somewhat," said Bai Junyue. "However, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle uses the thirty-six stars as its foundation. The defense is even more perfect. It is still somewhat lacking to use only one flying sword to produce the Heavenly Cycle. But it''s not bad. After all, he has managed to do it at such a young age. Now that Ji Lie can''t do a thing to him, he will probably have to stop."

 152 Existence at the Paramount Realm?

    Chapter 152: Existence at the Paramount Realm?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Bai family was the world''s oldest family clan.


    The Numinous treasure, Stellar Heavenly Cycle was the cornerstone treasure of the Bai family. From ancient times, it had left numerous fiendcelestials shuddering in fear. With it, the Bai family had remained powerful to the present day.


    The Bai family had extensively researched the Stellar Heavenly Cycle, and even spent a great deal to replicate it with two Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycles. Furthermore, the Bai family naturally had Dharmic formulations that could develop the Heavenly Cycle. However, by deliberately trying to develop the Heavenly Cycle, it was impossible to gain insights into the Heavenly Dao''s charms. How could they match Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Intent whose heart was to have defense at its very core?


    "Evolving the Heavenly Cycle." Bai Junyue looked into the distance and saw that Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were within the massive Cyclic Sword Flash''s barrier.


    "Brother¡­"


    A slivery mist appeared in Bai Junyue''s eyes.


    Her elder brother once led a charmed life in the Bai family. He had always protected her, fighting off powerful foes on her behalf. Why was the present scene so similar to the ones that happened in the past? The same development of the Heavenly Cycle to match an enemy, with the same verve and ease.


    "Brother, it has been so many years and I''ve already reached the Connate Golden Core realm but where are you? Where exactly are you?" At that moment, Bai Junyue missed her brother greatly. Although he was not a brother by blood, he was also from the Bai family. For an ancient family that had lasted so long, it naturally had a huge family tree but the number of people from the younger generation that could enter the Connate realm was few in number.


    The past was a century ago. Back then, Bai Junyue was only at the Connate False Core realm, while her brother was at the Connate True Core realm. He was also the most illustrious person in the Bai family. He had grasped intent and it was only a matter of time before he reached the Connate Golden Core realm.


    However, he never returned after traveling to the West Sea to deal with fiendish demons! The communication mark he left behind dissipated as well.


    The dissipation of a communication mark also represented his death.


    However, Bai Junyue refused to believe it! She refused to believe that her brother who had always protected and pampered her would die. She would never believe it without seeing a corpse. From that day forth, she turned cold like an iceberg. She also became crazier until she entered the Connate Golden Core realm. She had ventured out into the West Sea numerous times where she fought numerous fiendish demons as well as those from the West Sea''s Water race. However, her investigations led to the same outcome that the Bai family had informed her. Her brother had been killed by a great fiendish demon.


    That was a great fiendish demon that Bai Junyue herself was no match for up to this very day. However, without finding a corpse, she remained adamant.


    At that moment, she looked at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, who were enveloped in the Cyclic Sword Flash''s barrier of light.


    In her stupor, she seemed to see her brother and herself fending off enemies through the development of the Heavenly Cycle.


    The dampness in Bai Junyue''s eyes made the distant scene appear blurry. "I wish that the both of you will not be like Brother and me, and that the both of you can be together forever."


    She had once wished to marry her brother. The Bai family was a family clan that had descended since ancient times. As long as they were not blood relatives within three generations, it was still possible for them to get married. However, before Bai Junyue could say a thing, her brother had departed.


    ¡­


    "Impressive," Lunatic Zhu widened his eyes. "This Qin Yun appears to be stronger than Deacon Yuan."


    "His state is already higher than Deacon Yuan''s." Eighth Zhu said, "However, his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers are slightly weaker. Either he takes time to slowly accumulate his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers, or he expends natural treasures to accelerate his breakthrough. As long as Qin Yun is willing to use the treasures that he obtained from the immortal abode to exchange for rare treasures that can raise his strength, he would probably break through to the Connate True Core realm in as short as a month''s time. With his current state, I am even guessing that he had grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm."


    "Grasping sword intent at the Postnatal realm?" Lunatic Zhu was astounded.


    "Yes, it''s very possible. For him to have the courage to do this, it likely stems from the confidence he has in protecting himself." Eighth Zhu said, "If he had grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm, he can use his sword intent as a soul to condense a Connate False Core. It would be extremely pure. After all, among the Connate Golden Core cultivators at present¡­ how many of them grasped intent at the Postnatal realm? Their Connate False Core is probably inferior to Qin Yun''s. Besides, he should already be at the intent domain stage. With that, he can condense a Connate True Core."


    "Every foundation he has is extremely robust. His Connate True Core will probably be as good as some Connate Golden Cores in terms of Dharmic powers." Eighth Zhu deduced. "When the time comes, his strength would be a lot more terrifying than it is now. Ji Lie might not even dare to withstand Qin Yun''s flying sword with his physique. That battle would probably pan out completely differently."


    "Most importantly¡­"


    Eighth Zhu looked at Qin Yun. "He''s only twenty-three this year! Dharmic powers are easy to raise but intent is difficult to grasp. I can imagine that he has a chance of reaching the Sword Intent Paramount realm in the future!"


    "Another existence at the Paramount realm is about to be born." Eighth Zhu''s eyes lit up. "I''m truly envious."


    "Existence at the Paramount realm? A sword immortal that grasps the Sword Intent Paramount realm?" Lunatic Zhu felt terrified.


    The entire world did not have a sword immortal that had grasped Sword Dao at present.


    Only a particular era would produce one who had grasped Sword Dao. From ancient times, the sword immortals that grasped Sword Dao could be easily counted. Each one of them was illustrious in their era!


    Even the strongest living sword immortal was the one from Sword Tower! He was a sword immortal at the Sword Intent Paramount realm and had long left everyone in awe.


    "Are you kidding me? Him entering the Sword Intent Paramount realm?" Lunatic Zhu did not dare think further. "I heard that reaching the Paramount realm is very, very difficult."


    "Yea," Eighth Zhu nodded. "It''s very difficult. Many Connate Golden Core cultivators that have attained intent domain would never reach the Intent Paramount realm their entire lives. But if Qin Yun had really grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm, then it''s very likely due to Expertise Nearing Dao. His heart points towards the essence of Sword Dao so it is destined that once he has sufficient accumulations, it is very likely he would reach the Paramount realm."


    "Oh, from the looks of it. Ji Lie is going to stop." The handsome youth smiled. "This old fellow does know how to give and take after all."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun protected his surroundings through Cyclic Sword Flash with his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He controlled his fifth-grade flying sword to attempt attacking and when he discovered that it did not pose a threat to Ji Lie, he withdrew the fifth-grade flying sword.


    After a round of attacks in his anger, Ji Lie realized that he was helpless against the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. Gradually, he calmed down. He even felt a lingering fear.


    "This Qin Yun is only slightly weaker in his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers! By protecting a first-grade Dharma treasure for the Yi family, as long as the Yi family''s patriarch wants face, he would bestow Qin Yun with a sizable amount of treasures. Through those treasures, Qin Yun would be able to rapidly increase his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers. And as long as he isn''t killed, with his young age¡­" Ji Lie secretly dreaded.


    He was an old man that had lived for three centuries after all. He knew when to yield and when not to. Previously, he had a mindset of disparaging everyone else and felt that it was ridiculous that Qin Yun dared provoke him. Now, by treating Qin Yun as a Connate Golden Core with astounding potential, to the point of being able to foresee how his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers could be raised in a short period of time, he naturally did not feel vexed any longer.


    "Phew." He retracted his arms.


    In front of him, Qin Yun dispersed his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier as the Intrinsic Flying Sword floated in midair.


    "Impressive, Qin Yun." Ji Lie said coldly and forcefully. "It''s true I underestimated you. Your flying sword developed the Heavenly Cycle and your defense is formidable. It''s no wonder you dare take action. I said before that the vying of treasures is dependent on one''s capabilities. Since you have the capability to protect it for the Yi family, I''ll naturally not vie for it any longer. Let''s go."


    As he spoke, he looked at Sixteenth Prince. Sixteenth Prince immediately flew over and headed into the distance with Ji Lie on the same cloud.


    Sixteenth Prince could not help but turn to look at Yi Xiao. However, when he saw Yi Xiao and Qin Yun together, he did not say a word although he wished to say something.


    Prince? So what if he was a prince?


    The only perk was his privileged status. Everyone looked at him in a different light and did not dare kill him. That was all. But true status in the royal family depended on strength! Connate Golden Cores¡­ held extremely high positions in the royal family. It was not something a prince like him could match.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin," Yi Fenggu said immediately. "Thank you for your help. You helped my Yi family secure a first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet. I will definitely report this matter to the patriarch. Our Yi family will definitely not treat fellow Daoist Qin shabbily."


    If the Yi family benefited without reciprocating, it would only be mocked.


    "Yea, I will tell the patriarch as well," said Yi Xiao. Following that, she said worriedly through a voice transmission, "How is your expenditure of Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers? You mentioned before that the Cyclic Sword Flash is a move that drains you the most."


    When Qin Yun saw Yi Xiao worry over him, he said smilingly through a voice transmission, "That was back in the Postnatal realm. After entering the Connate realm, with my insights in sword intent going deeper, the burden of the Cyclic Sword Flash has been reduced relatively. I estimate it to be about ten times the expenditure of ordinary moves. The battle up to now has expended twenty percent of my Dharmic powers."


    "Twenty percent?" Yi Xiao said with a voice transmission immediately. "We haven''t even seen any transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or Numinous treasure, and you have already expended so much of your Dharmic powers?"


    "It''s fine. I naturally made preparations before entering the immortal abode. Although I do not have very powerful treasures, I prepared three numinous pills. They can replenish a portion of my Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers," Qin Yun assured her through a voice transmission. "Besides, if I notice that things are going south, I can escape through Sword Kinesis Flight."


    Yi Xiao was enlightened.


    That''s right, he had naturally made the preparations needed for entering the immortal abode.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, impressive!" Eighth Zhu shouted from afar as he flew over with Lunatic Zhu.


    "I was only forced to defend," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Being able to defend is a showcase of ability as well," said Eighth Zhu immediately.


    However, Lunatic Zhu said quickly, "Let''s leave quickly. They have already flown far away."


    Indeed, Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince were flying ahead. Although the Bai sisters were looking over, they had also begun flying forward.


    "Let''s leave quickly," said Qin Yun as well.


    Immediately, Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, Yi Fenggu, Eighth Zhu, Lunatic Zhu, as well as Fang Yu flew behind the group.


    At the end of the lightning world, a white fog appeared.


    Ji Lie, Sixteenth Prince, Bai Junyue, and Bai Junyu flew straight into the white fog one after another.


    "Another array formation," Hong Lingtong frowned slightly. "I find this array formation abnormal."


    "Yea," Eighth Zhu said with a smile. "The treasures from before were the three first-grade Dharma treasures. What follows next might very well be the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or even a Numinous treasure! The danger will naturally increase. But if one doesn''t enter it, there''s no way to know the truth of the array formation."


    "Let''s enter."


    No one from the group shrank back. Even the weakest Fang Yu had his ambitions. "I do not dare covet thoughts of a first-grade Dharma treasure or higher. However, Immortal Scenic Yang is an immortal. He was the leader of the Daoist movement of the past. Other than those powerful Dharma treasures, I believe he should have some ordinary Dharma treasures. Just picking up a few would be worth it."


    The group flew into the white fog together.


    The moment Qin Yun entered the white fog, he felt as though the world was spinning.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at his surroundings which were a filled with white fog. Despite his sword intent domain being capable of perceiving a region of eighty feet, Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, Eighth Zhu, and company had all vanished; he could not find them within an eighty-feet radius.


    "Where are they?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. "We were separated the moment we entered the array formation? From the looks of it, this array formation is a lot more dangerous than the three array formations from before."


    The treasures that were hidden nearer to the end were more powerful, but it also meant greater danger.

 153 Hong Lingtong Leads the Way

    Chapter 153: Hong Lingtong Leads the Way


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I don''t know anything about array formations." Qin Yun looked at the surrounding white fog and frowned. "It would be nothing for Brother Hong. He''s most skilled in array formations and I believe he will have means to deal with it. Whereas, Yi Xiao is different from me. She''s a disciple of a large family clan and Patriarch Yi must have given her some life-preservation items. Furthermore, she has already grasped the Lightning Concept. With Divine Firmament talisman amulets in hand, she should be able to withstand most dangers."


    Qin Yun could only console himself.


    Phew.


    He released the purple flying sword and allowed it to float in front of him. As for his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he kept it in his sleeve to release it at any time.


    He could only perceive his surroundings with his sword intent domain while inside the white fog. He could only barely see a little more than ten feet with his naked eyes! As for psyche perception? It did not sense a thing at all.


    Qin Yun carefully walked through the blurry white fog.


    "I don''t understand array formations but to crack one, there are two methods. One is to forcibly crack it and the other is to pin one''s hopes on Immortal Scenic Yang''s benevolence." Qin Yun thought to himself. "As for forcibly cracking it? None of those who entered is capable of that! We opened the immortal abode with six tokens, causing the array formations left behind by Immortal Scenic Yang to be greatly reduced in strength. If he really wants us dead, the strongest among us is only at the Connate Golden Core realm. How would we be able to escape?


    "According to the experience gleaned from the first three array formations, just continuing on would result in me exiting the array formation."


    "As long as I don''t touch any treasures, the danger would be reduced to its lowest."


    Qin Yun walked on when he suddenly sensed something.


    "Shoo!" A plume of scorching fire shot out from the fog.


    The purple flying sword flashed to receive it, instantly blocking it.


    The red plume of fire dissipated.


    "There is indeed danger. The might of this fire plume is already at the peak Connate True Core realm." Qin Yun thought to himself. "With Yi Xiao''s present strength, she could already become an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. She should be fine."


    She was different from how he was back when he lacked powerful Dharma treasures. Yi Xiao had just attained the Lightning Concept and had learned the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. She was also bestowed with a fourth-grade Divine Firmament talisman amulet, so she was indeed at the level of an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    Qin Yun continued proceeding through the blurry white fog.


    ¡­


    And at that moment.


    "We have been completely separated." Yi Xiao was extremely cautious as ripples emanated out from her, spanning sixty feet of her surroundings. Every generation, the number of disciples that cultivated in the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma could be counted in one hand. The Divine Firmament Chapter would also bestow powerful life-preservation Dharma treasures to them!


    he held a fourth-grade Divine Firmament talisman amulet in preparation to cast lightning spells at any moment. If lightning was blasted out, its speed was much faster than a flying sword.


    "Phew."


    Deep in the white fog, a red fiery beam shot out. However, the green ripples that spread out a distance of sixty feet from her obstructed the red flame. Only the outermost ripple was damaged.


    "Strength at the peak Connate True Core realm? That''s still alright. My Dharma treasure can still withstand it." Yi Xiao continued proceeding further.


    ¡­


    The moment Hong Lingtong found himself in the white fog, he revealed a smile.


    With wood stave in hand, he began calculating with his fingers.


    At the same time, the floating ancient turtle shell that was filled with cracks in his dantian also aided him in his inference.


    "The treasures within this array formation is a lot more valuable than the three treasures from before, combined." Hong Lingtong smiled. "However, it''s a lot more dangerous."


    "Eh?"


    "The treasures are split into so many different spots?"


    Hong Lingtong quickly inferred that there were treasures in many areas in the array formation.


    "The three array formations from before only had one Dharma treasure. But here, the treasures are separated." Hong Lingtong revealed a look of delight. "Looks like I''ll be able to pick a few."


    "Well, what I should do now the most is¡­"


    Hong Lingtong did a rudimentary prediction and affirmed, "To find Qin Yun!"


    "From the looks of it, I would not be able to obtain the powerful treasures with just me alone." As Hong Lingtong inferred, he continued proceeding ahead with a wooden stave in hand. As he walked, he tapped the wooden stave gently, sending very light disturbances out. There were six Dharma treasures hidden around him within the void that protected him.


    "Qin Yun is in this direction."


    As Hong Lingtong inferred, he began to speed up his pace but he did not even encounter a single fire plume throughout his entire journey! He had very naturally avoided any hint of danger.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun kept walking forward. Although he was surrounded by white fog, he continued pondering over the matter.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Three red fire plumes attacked. The purple flying sword flashed in midair and blocked the three fire plumes.


    "It seems the number of assaulting flames increase if I head this way?" Qin Yun thought to himself. "As long as it''s more dangerous, it''s very likely a spot that hides treasure."


    Although he did not understand array formations, he remembered what Sect Master Gong had said. Places with treasures were more dangerous.


    On the other hand, although it was not necessary that a dangerous spot would have treasures, the likelihood of there being treasures was higher! Qin Yun was not bothered by the trivial flames.


    "Brother Qin Yun." A voice came out of the white fog.


    Phew.


    A red flame came attacking but he saw six tokens appear out of the void. Thy formed an array formation among each other, and the moment the red flame entered the vicinity of the six tokens, it very naturally got deflected.


    "Plop." Hong Lingtong walked out of the white fog as he tapped the ground gently with the wooden stave in his hand. Immediately, the red flame shot out into the distance.


    "Brother Hong?" Qin Yun was astonished. "I''ve never seen this ability of yours. This is also the first time I''m seeing you use this six Dharma treasure set."


    When Hong Lingtong walked toward Qin Yun, the six tokens rapidly flew into his sleeve. Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "With Brother Qin Yun here, why would I need to use these tricks of mine? Just a single fire plume from here is already too powerful for me. Taking it head on is extremely demanding too. I had to think of ways to deflect it."


    "The flames produced by an array formation set up by an Essence Soul immortal can be deflected by you?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "That''s because Immortal Scenic Yang is long dead. This array formation has no one controlling it and it''s being run automatically. That''s how I can resort to trickery," explained Hong Lingtong. "If an owner is controlling it, the strength of the array formation will be at its greatest extent. When against an enemy, it would be terrifying."


    "Alright, let''s not talk further. Let''s quickly go," urged Hong Lingtong. "There are lots of treasures here. I came looking for you immediately without even getting one."


    "Can you find Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun asked immediately.


    Hong Lingtong frowned slightly. He shook his head and said, "I came with you, causing our karma to be intricately linked. That''s how I could find you. However, the karma between she and me is extremely thin. The array formation here can jumble one''s perception, and its goal is to deliberately separate us. For example, you won''t be able to sense a Dharmic power mark you left on someone else. The inference difficulty is also a lot more difficult than in the outside world. Under the influence of the array formation, I would not be able to infer her position. However, if we are sufficiently close to her, I should be able to sense her."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. He also understood that Hong Lingtong was very impressive to be able to regroup with him despite the influence of the array formation.


    "Then, let''s go," said Hong Lingtong. "We can search for treasures as we search for Miss Yi. Perhaps, there will be a time when we are very close to Miss Yi."


    "You said that there are a lot of treasures?" Qin Yun was perplexed.


    "Yea, I can infer that there are many spots with treasures." Hong Lingtong smiled.


    "Looks like it''s different from the three array formations from before." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Follow me," said Hong Lingtong. "However, Brother Qin Yun, I''ll leave the danger to you."


    "Leave it to me. All you need to do is lead the way." Qin Yun was filled with confidence.


    "Alright."


    The two joined hands in proceeding forward.


    Hong Lingtong appeared very leisurely and confidently within the white fog as he easily determined the direction in which to proceed.


    After walking for a few seconds.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew¡­" Instantly, eight flames surged over, giving Qin Yun a fright. Back when he was walking randomly around, he had only encountered a maximum of three flames. This time, there were a total of eight?


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The purple flying sword flew out and instantly formed a gigantic barrier of sword beams. The eight flames struck the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier and dissipated.


    "There is treasure up ahead," said Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    The duo continued forward. After walking a few steps, they noticed that the fog in front of them had thinned greatly. They could even see more than a hundred feet out. There was only a thin fog along the ground with a huge boulder there. On the boulder was a green jade bottle that looked ordinary as though it was an ordinary item.


    "This is a treasure?" Qin Yun looked bafflingly at the jade bottle. He could not see how it was precious from the knowledge he had.


    "Just take it so that we can take a look," said Hong Lingtong.


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A sword beam flew out, sweeping up the green bottle before flying back to him.

 154 Immortal Pill!!!

    Chapter 154: Immortal Pill!!!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun extended his hand and grabbed the jade bottle. The green jade bottle''s surface was rather ordinary but there were two words: Multicolored Pill.


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong looked each other in the eye.


    "Spirit Pills?" The duo effused delighted looks.


    "That''s right. The Scenic Mountain Sect''s alchemy is only considered ordinary and is far inferior to Numinous Treasure Mountain." Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "However, Immortal Scenic Yang is a historically famous alchemical grandmaster. In order to refine pills, he had gone through great effort and received the help of many of his friends before he could refine a cauldron he wanted the most, a cauldron at the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure level¡ªGolden Core Cauldron. As a result, he refined many famous pills and there were some that no one else but him could refine."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Consider the thousand-year-old Ice Jade Fruit which County Governor Wen had previously commissioned Qin Yun and company to pluck, it was a marvel born naturally from the heaven and earth. However, pills were the amalgamation of cultivators gathering all sort of worldly ingredients and refined in a cauldron. The final products were pills that far exceeded the quality of the ingredients.


    One pill could allow a mortal to enter the Connate realm immediately.


    One pill could bring a recently deceased back to life.


    Legend even said that back when the Dao Ancestor taught the Dao on Numinous Treasure Mountain, he had once said that the Dao of Alchemy could produce powerful pills that could even make mortals become immortals directly! Of course, those were only legends¡­ No one had ever refined such heaven-defying pills before.


    However, the development of such a powerful alchemical grandmaster was too difficult. There was an extremely demanding requirement of an alchemical grandmaster''s realm. And the second most important characteristic was to have deep knowledge of the countless ingredients available. Only through countless experiments with pills would one have the accumulated experience to refine more and more powerful pills. The great experts in alchemy were few and far between in the world.


    Immortal Scenic Yang was one of the few who stood at the pinnacle of alchemy against the backdrop of history. Those that were of equal rank to him were immortals from different eras.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "Multicolored Pills are fifth-grade pills. It allows mortals to undergo marrow cleansing when cultivating, improving their natural endowments. Even when elderly mortals eat it, they would become a lot healthier."


    He was now an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador after all. Besides, he could buy all sorts of treasures from Myriad Temple and he had also seen their entire catalog before. Therefore, he knew of all the famous pills in the world.


    "There are twenty pills in here." Qin Yun opened the stopper to take a look but he frowned slightly. "Too much time has passed. Although it has been preserved very well, it has only fifty percent of its medicinal power left."


    "Fifty percent is already very good," said Hong Lingtong immediately. "Let''s quickly search for more."


    "Yea."


    Qin Yun nodded. Under Hong Lingtong''s lead, they quickly headed for the next spot to seek the treasures that were sensed.


    ¡­


    The second spot where the treasure was hidden had more than a hundred flames dancing in midair. When Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong approached them, the hundred plus flames quickly merged together, forming the shape of a wolf in midair. Its body was made up of flames as it stepped across the void and leaped over. Qin Yun continued releasing his purple flying sword.


    Shoo!


    The sword beam flashed and like a surge of lightning, it had irrepressible might. The Inferno Wolf dodged agilely in midair but how agile was a flying sword? Just a simple flash and it eventually struck the Inferno Wolf.


    Boom!


    The purple flying sword struck out fiercely, but only a portion of the Inferno Wolf''s flames was dispersed.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" The purple flying sword attacked in succession, preventing the Inferno Wolf from dodging. Eventually, it dispersed completely.


    "This Inferno Wolf''s strength is already at the level of an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador," said Qin Yun. As he spoke, he went forward with Hong Lingtong. On a boulder, there was a green jade bottle. It looked almost identical to the one from before.


    He released a sword beam that wrapped the jade bottle towards him. Qin Yun stretched out his hand and took it. The three words, "Dao Heart Pills" were engraved on the green jade bottle.


    "Dao Heart Pills?" Hong Lingtong said immediately. "These are third-grade Spirit Pills. It''s said that if one suffers a deviation, loses one''s Dao heart, or suffers mental perturbations, just eating a single pill will allow one''s mind to freeze. Within half a year, one''s mind would not be perturbed at all."


    Dao Heart Pills were extremely valuable.


    A single pill could match that of a fifth-grade Dharma treasure. Dharma treasures could be slowly used and if they were not used, they could be sold. Pills were gone once they were used!


    "Cultivators who refine pills or artifacts, or those that need to draw talismans, or even powerful talisman amulets, would typically want a Dao Heart Pill," elaborated Qin Yun. After eating one Dao Heart Pill, one would attain absolute calmness, preventing any careless mistakes from happening.


    Hong Lingtong said with a smile, "It is not only limited to cultivators, even fiendish demons, especially those that cultivate in Dharmic formulations that seek quick success and instant benefits, covet Dao Heart Pills greatly. After all, those Dharmic formulations make it easy for one to go astray."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    Dao Heart Pills were always popular! Whoever refined them could quickly have them snatched up once they put it up for sale.


    Even ordinarily powerful cultivators would have one or two Dao Heart Pills in store, so as to prevent themselves from losing their Dao heart and going astray. After all once the Dao heart experienced problems, simply consuming the pill would allow for one to recover within half a year.


    ******


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong walked in the endless white fog. Under Hong Lingtong''s guidance and Qin Yun''s management of danger, they easily obtained pills from various spots.


    The lowest grade of the pills was at the sixth-grade and the highest was a bottle of first-grade pills.


    Marrow cleansing, illness treatment, enhancement of Dharmic powers, recovery of Dharmic powers, antitoxins¡­ The pills provided a myriad of effects.


    The first-grade pills were even stored in a Fire Cloud Calabash. The Fire Cloud Calabash was naturally grown and was best for preserving pills. Typically, only the best pills were stored in Fire Cloud Calabashes. Even after three thousand years, the first-grade pills still had eighty percent of their medicinal effects. That first-grade pills were called Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. They were extremely famous Spirit Pills in the cultivation world.


    Typically, only the best Connate Golden Core cultivators or Essence Soul immortals used them.


    For example, a top Connate Golden Core cultivator that believed that they had made sufficient preparations to attempt a breakthrough to the Essence Soul realm would have their Golden Core damaged upon failure! They could then consume the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills to mend the damage. It was best at recovering one''s life roots.


    Even Essence Soul immortals could use it for treatment.


    Mortals with missing limbs or weak constitutions or weak from age¡­ had all sorts of damage to their life roots. Mortals all the way to immortals could consume Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills as they were extremely mild. Even a baby could withstand it. It was an excellent Spirit Pill.


    However, it was too expensive!


    Even the top Golden Core cultivator would not bear to use it without good reason. Even Essence Soul immortals would only have a few for standby.


    A Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill was equivalent to a second-grade Dharma treasure!


    "A total of six pills." Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong were extremely delighted as well.


    The calabash contained six Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. It was the most valuable item they had received so far. Six Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills added up matched a first-grade Dharma treasure. For a first-grade Dharma treasure, Ji Lie had directly rebuked Sixteenth Prince! Even typical Connate Golden Core cultivators would not dare to bring a first-grade Dharma treasure out into the open as they were afraid of being robbed.


    Before the Yue Chapter came to the Scenic Yang Cave Abode, they only had three first-grade Dharma treasures.


    Therefore, how valuable was a calabash-worth of Spirit Pills?


    The bunch of Spirit Pills that Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong found were far inferior to the calabash of Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills, even when added together. By splitting it equally, it was equivalent to them receiving half a first-grade Dharma treasure!


    "It''s only in an immortal abode that this can happen. It it were the outer world, when would we have the chance of obtaining so many treasures?" Qin Yun sighed.


    "We didn''t make a mistake coming!" Hong Lingtong was feeling excited as well.


    "It''s all thanks to you, Brother Hong. If not for you leading the way, I''ll only be walking around in circles. I would be considered lucky if I can find a bottle of Spirit Pills, much less the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills," said Qin Yun.


    "Brother Qin Yun, if it were me alone, I would not be able to resolve the danger to obtain the Spirit Pills even if I found it," said Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    ¡­


    Finally, the duo came to another spot.


    There was faint lustrous light coming up ahead. It made Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong reveal looks of pleasant surprise. When they looked carefully, the white fog up ahead was thin. There was a jade platform and a fiery-red calabash stood atop it.


    "A Fire Cloud Calabash. It''s another Fire Cloud Calabash," Hong Lingtong said excitedly. "Among all the Spirit Pills we discovered previously, a Fire Cloud Calabash was only used once as a vessel. It was the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. Besides, this Fire Cloud Calabash is placed on a jade platform which has an active array that is emitting a lustrous light."


    "Yea," Qin Yun''s heart raced. "That jade platform has an active array formation. It must be used to protect that calabash of Spirit Pills. With Immortal Scenic Yang''s wealth, even the first-grade Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills were only placed inside a Fire Cloud Calabash which was placed on a boulder. But he has used a jade platform to protect it with an array formation? Also, it is stored in a Fire Cloud Calabash. Perhaps, the pills stored in it are more valuable than first-grade pills."


    "More valuable than first-grade pills?" Hong Lingtong gulped. "Could it be¡­ an Immortal Pill?"


    "Boom!!!"


    There was a resonating hum that could be faintly heard from the surroundings. Flames began to coalesce out of thin air as endless flames gathered. Instantly, they manifested a massive Inferno Divine Dragon. It had a majestic aura as it coiled itself above the jade platform. The dragon''s head looked down at Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong.


    "After seeing this behemoth, I''m more convinced that what lies in it is an Immortal Pill." Qin Yun stared intently at the massive Inferno Divine Dragon.


    "Brother Qin Yun, I''m counting on you." Hong Lingtong did not dare go forward. He could sense immense danger from the Inferno Divine Dragon. If he went forward, he would probably be destroyed easily.


    "Leave it to me."


    Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with fighting spirit.

 155 Golden Core Outer Pill Part 1/2

    In a crouching position, the Inferno Divine Dragon stared at Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong when it suddenly charged forward.


    "Go!" Qin Yun released his Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately.


    Instantly, like a moon rising over the river, the moon-like sword beam collided with the Inferno Divine Dragon''s head at an inconceivable speed. Bam! Fire sparks flew but the dragon appeared unharmed. It let out a dragon''s roar as though it was somewhat furious. It resumed its attack while Qin Yun controlled his flying sword to unleash his attacks on it.


    Bright Moon Over River attacked the dragon from every conceivable angle!


    However, the dragon''s body was redoubtable. Only a tiny portion of sparks dissipated but after dozens of strikes, the flames it comprised of slowly thinned.


    "Phew."


    Another moon-like sword beam whistled its impending attack. But when the flying sword struck the dragon''s body, it was as if it was stabbing into empty space. It went straight through it! The dragon''s massive body seemed to ignore Qin Yun''s flying sword and swooped down at Qin Yun.


    "No good." Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "Its body can phase between a corporeal and incorporeal state." Hong Lingtong was also greatly alarmed. The dragon''s body had been corporeal, and even the flames they encountered during the previous Spirit Pill encounters could be forcibly destroyed. No one expected the dragon to be capable of phasing in and out of existence.


    Qin Yun commanded his Intrinsic Flying Sword to rapidly fly back as he released the purple flying sword.


    At the moment the purple flying sword flew forward, it began forming the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash barrier was a complete defense! Be it physical or not¡ªas long as it possessed a minuscule of energy¡ªeven dust could be warded off.


    "Boom!!!"


    The dragon''s incorporeal body flew over and swiped down with its sharp claws, scratching at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. Despite a violent reverberation, the barrier managed to withstand the assault.


    "Its attack is much weaker than Ji Lie''s attacks at full force." Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. He was right. Ji Lie was considered extremely powerful among Connate Golden Cores. He also had a first-grade Dharma treasure, the Fiend Annihilation Hand, which could only be defended against by Qin Yun''s strongest Cyclic Sword Flash defenses.


    "Boom!!!"


    The dragon swooped down a second time. After a swipe of its claws, it thrust its massive tail onto the barrier, which finally disintegrated the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    However, with the Intrinsic Flying Sword already prepared, Cyclic Sword Flash was mustered once again, resulting in an impregnable defense.


    The might produced by the Intrinsic Flying Sword was incomparable to the might of the purple flying sword. The large Cyclic Sword Flash protected his surroundings and despite the dragon''s maniacal attacks, it failed to split apart the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Every time it attacks, the flames on it will dissipate." Hong Lingtong said immediately. "It won''t be able to last long."


    "If it were the ordinary flame plumes, they would have disintegrated simply from striking my Cyclic Sword Flash," said Qin Yun. "This Inferno Divine Dragon is indeed a lot harder with it phasing in and out of existence. However, it is ultimately a manifestation of the array formation and does not have any intelligence. All it knows is to attack us. I just need to drag it out, and the flames it is made up of will eventually be exhausted."


    The bout continued for a few moments. The dragon''s body turned increasingly dark and thin and finally, its body disintegrated as the flames dissipated.


    "It''s done!" Hong Lingtong was delighted as he stared intently at the Fire Cloud Calabash that was placed on the lustrous jade platform.


    "This is the strength of a greatly weakened array formation. If the array formation wasn''t weakened, I wonder what sort of state the Inferno Divine Dragon would be? How powerful would it be?" Qin Yun could not help but ponder.


    "Thousands of feet long and probably a person at Ji Lie''s level will be instantly decimated?" Hong Lingtong mumbled.


    "My flying sword arts will be decimated instantly as well," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "That''s why we only dare enter after gathering all six tokens."


    As the duo spoke, they felt their hearts racing.


    They were both looking at the Fire Cloud Calabash on the jade platform.


    "Brother Qin Yun, take a look and see what''s in it," said Hong Lingtong eagerly.


    "Alright." Qin Yun waved his hand as a sword beam flew out, and wrapped the Fire Cloud Calabash in air, pulling it over.


    The red Fire Cloud Calabash was born of the world and was best at storing pills. At that moment, there were four small and inconspicuous text on the Fire Cloud Calabash¡ªGolden Core Outer Pill.


    "Golden Core Outer Pill?" Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong were astonished.


    Their expressions changed.


    Their hearts raced even faster.


    "This, this, this, this is¡­" Even as calm as he was, Hong Lingtong was so agitated that he was at a loss for words.


    "Golden Core Outer Pill! The legendary Golden Core Outer Pill?" Qin Yun looked at the four words on the Fire Cloud Calabash. He found it surreal.


    Hong Lingtong could not help but give Qin Yun a glance.


    "Will he kill me to snatch the treasure? Or will he not kill me but not give me any?" Hong Lingtong could not help from having chaotic thoughts run through his head. After all, his strength was inferior to Qin Yun''s. "If he doesn''t want to split it with me, he might also be afraid of my divulging the secret. If so, he might even silence me!"


    Hong Lingtong felt a myriad of emotions.


    It was also impossible for him to infer the future due to his chaotic thoughts.


    "Take a look at what''s inside?" asked Hong Lingtong.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded and pulled the calabash''s stopper to check it.


    Inside, there were six floating golden pills that were spherical in shape. They were scattered within the space and did not interfere with the other.


    "Six Golden Core Outer Pills." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. Hong Lingtong was equally excited, but he was more worried, worried that Qin Yun would murder him.


    "Qin Yun''s character might be fine but treasures can change a person. The most unreliable thing that will succumb to temptations is a person''s character. These are legendary Immortal Pills. They provide sufficient reason for Connate Golden Core cultivators to fall out." Hong Lingtong felt all sorts of conflicted thoughts.


    Hong Lingtong said immediately, "Brother Qin Yun, you have obtained so many treasures on this expedition to the immortal abode. I have received a lot from you while we were along the periphery of the abode. Now, we have obtained so many Spirit Pills. I''m still too weak and with so many treasures¡­ it might be a curse more than a blessing for me! As for these Golden Core Outer Pills, why don''t you just give me one, alright?"


    "Are you afraid I''ll silence you?" Qin Yun shot a glance at Hong Lingtong.


    Qin Yun had roamed the world from the age of fifteen, and he had seen the dark natures of humans. His survival definitely had luck involved, so how could he not guess at Hong Lingtong''s thoughts?


    Hong Lingtong was taken aback.


    Qin Yun smiled. "Don''t worry. We agreed on splitting it equally. I will not give you any less. As for silencing you, you are thinking too little of me."


    So what if they were treasures?


    In the face of death, treasures were unsubstantial. Back when he was on the battlefields of the northern borders, he walked the tightrope of life and death and eventually knocked open the gate of immortality! He had entrusted his life to his brothers. If he had thrown aside the importance of his life, how could treasures tempt him? Qin Yun and his pals were different from the soldiers that were stationed in the northern borders.


    They were there of their own accord! They could leave at any time. Therefore, Qin Yun believed that among all the cultivators he met while traveling the world, the people that were most easygoing and worthy of respect were his pals on the battlefield in the northern borders. All of them wore their hearts on their sleeves.


    "But all these treasures truly puts pressure on me." Hong Lingtong could not help but say. "Besides, I''m afraid of those who are adept at inference. They might be able to infer who received the greatest bounty on this expedition to the immortal abode¡­ I''m afraid that they would infer that it''s me. I''m weak and the easiest to be crushed to death."


    "That can be inferred as well?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Yes."


    Hong Lingtong nodded. "Powerful Essence Soul immortals who are good at inference can see how providence''s light shifts. They can even see the treasure halos around us! The richer the treasure halos, the more treasure we have. Although I have means of concealing the halo, it is difficult to conceal it when there are so many treasures."


    What Hong Lingtong said was the truth too.


    Essence Soul immortals were good at inference. They could see how providence''s light shifted and the treasure halos. That was a fact. For the treasures they had received up to now, Hong Lingtong was still able to barely conceal them even if half had been given to him.


    "Treasure halos?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. "I''ve heard of that before too. However, since I agreed on splitting it evenly with you, I''ll do it. If not, I''ll damage my Dao heart, wouldn''t that be the case?"


    "That''s true." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    For Qin Yun to grasp sword intent at the Postnatal realm, and reach the sword intent domain at twenty-three, he naturally wished to grasp Sword Dao in the future. How could he mar his Dao heart for Immortal Pills?


    Furthermore, going back on his word, killing friends for treasures was something he disdained deep down. Becoming a person he despised was something worse than death to him.


    "Let''s do it this way. If you are afraid, I''ll hand you thirty percent of your share. I''ll hand over the remaining seventy percent when you enter the Connate True Core realm," said Qin Yun with a smile. "When the time comes, you will be stronger too, and you should have more means."


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong felt his heart warm up.


    He truly trusted Qin Yun.


    There was no need for Qin Yun to hoax him. If he refused to hand it to him, Hong Lingtong had no other solutions as well.


    "Take one Golden Core Outer Pill first." Qin Yun pulled the calabash''s stopper and a Golden Core Outer Pill flew out.


    Hong Lingtong extended his hand to grab it and threw it into his mouth.


    "Are you eating it now?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Haha, it''s naturally best if my strength can increase sooner than later. It will allow me to face danger too. But this is an external power after all. It''s only temporary," said Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "I do not know how to conceal treasure halos. I''ll eat one too."


    Another Golden Core Outer Pill flew out. It was round, golden and shimmering, containing unimaginable power. Qin Yun opened his mouth, and the Golden Core Outer Pill entered it.


    "Although it''s a temporary external power, through it, Ji Lie is probably not your match anymore, Brother Qin Yun," said Hong Lingtong.


    "It also brings about many advantages. It benefits for life," said Qin Yun.

 156 Golden Core Outer Pill Part 2/2

    Golden Core Outer Pills were universally accepted as a type of Immortal Pill.


    It was a creation of Immortal Scenic Yang, an illustrious figure in history! Back then, Immortal Scenic Yang had gone to great effort to invite experts from various disciplines to eventually refine the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron. With the cauldron, he refined many potent pills. One of the most famous and most impressive pills was the Golden Core Outer Pill. This was also why the cauldron was eventually given its name. And after Immortal Scenic Yang''s death, no one else could refine Golden Core Outer Pills. As such, these pills became a legend.


    Although there were some Golden Core Outer Pills that circulated through the world, they were long consumed over the span of three thousand years, becoming a legend as well.


    The Golden Core Outer Pill would enter the dantian on consumption! It was as though one had cultivated to form a Golden Core.


    In one step, they could directly reach the Connate Golden Core realm!


    Of course, the premise was that one had to be a Connate realm cultivator to use it or their body would not be able to withstand it.


    The Golden Core Outer Pill contained extremely pure Dharmic powers. By tapping its power, one would possess Dharmic powers at the Connate Golden Core realm! The only flaw was¡­ on one hand, the Golden Core Outer Pill was ultimately external. Every expenditure of the Dharmic powers reduced it! It was gone once it was completely drained. On the other hand, the comprehension of the Heavenly Dao''s charms or insights into Dharma spells or the cultivation of talisman amulets needed to follow a slow prescribed order.


    For example, a sword immortal''s Intrinsic Flying Sword needed a sword immortal''s Dharmic powers to nurture it. Some special intrinsic talisman amulets, such as the Divine Firmament Talisman Amulet needed one to have a Lightning Dharmic powers that came from having the foundation of the Five-elemental Lightning Dharma. Another example would be the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation that nurtured one''s body. All of these needed special Dharmic formulations in order to nurture them.


    Therefore, typical Connate realms that were aided by a Golden Core Outer Pill would only line the bottom of the Connate Golden Core realm.


    However, the Golden Core Outer Pill had another reason why it was highly sought after by many cultivators.


    The moment the Golden Core Outer Pill entered the body, it could nourish one''s body and soul! It allowed one''s body and soul to reach the Connate Golden Core realm. Even after the Golden Core Outer Pill was expended, the enhanced body and soul would not weaken. Therefore, one could possess the five hundred year lifespan that was the hallmark of the Golden Core realm.


    Longevity!


    It was something could make cultivators go mad over.


    At the Connate False Core realm, one typically had a lifespan of two hundred years. Those at the Connate True Core realm had three hundred years of lifespan!


    With the Golden Core Outer Pill, one could have three hundred or two hundred more years of lifespan respectively. Naturally, many people coveted it. Furthermore, one''s cultivation could improve at an easier and faster pace with a stronger soul.


    Of course¡ª


    If it were the Physical Establishing Sage or the Godfiend lineages that purely cultivated the physical body, it was different. Firstly, the more demanding the Dharmic formulation, the more special Dharmic powers was needed in cultivating their bodies. Secondly, their bodies were extremely powerful, allowing them to match Dharma treasures. However, the strengthening of their bodies demanded a huge amount of energy. If a Golden Core Outer Pill were used to nourish their bodies, it would be completely insufficient. Their bodies could exist for centuries, if not a thousand years, to begin with. However, through the Golden Core Outer core, they could nourish their souls, allowing them to live for five centuries.


    ¡­


    In the hazy white mist, Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong each consumed a Golden Core Outer Pill while standing beside the jade platform that emitted a lustrous light.


    When the Golden Core Outer Pill reached their mouths, their soul and psyche attempted to fuse with it. It was easily accomplished, allowing them to perfectly use all the powers of the Golden Core Outer core.


    Following that, the powers reached the stomach and finally, into the dantian.


    Inside the obstreperous dantian, there was originally a Connate False Core that was the amalgamation of years of cultivation. And at that moment, a Golden Core Outer core that was a lot larger floated beside it. It was round and effused golden light.


    "Golden Core Outer core." Qin Yun sensed that at the moment his soul and psyche fused with the Golden Core Outer core, he could also sense the nourishment the Golden Core Outer core brought them. His soul was transforming and perceivably becoming stronger rapidly.


    Every barrier crossed on the cultivation path would result in a transformation of the body and soul.


    Sword immortals were adept at using their Dharmic powers to control their flying swords and were capable of cultivating an Intrinsic Flying Sword. However, in terms of nurturing the soul, there was no advantage when compared to the Golden Core Outer Pill from the Scenic Mountain Sect''s lineage.


    "Phew." The moment he used the Golden Core Outer Pill''s Dharmic powers, immensely pure and majestic Dharmic powers immediately caused the entire dantian to experience pressure upon exiting the Golden Core Outer core. This was also the reason why the Golden Core Outer Pill could only be used by Connate realm cultivators. Even though it was mild, the Dharmic powers were still at the Golden Core realm. It was impossible for anyone''s physical body to withstand it.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The Golden Core Dharmic powers transmitted out of the dantian, into the meridians and then spread throughout his body. It felt a little harsh on his body.


    And this was only because Qin Yun himself was powerful enough.


    However, as the Dharmic powers circulated through his body, they naturally nourished every spot in his body. He felt a slight itch throughout his body as it constantly transformed. But at the same time as his body underwent a transformation, the Dharmic powers were also gradually depleting. Qin Yun sensed that his ears were turning sharper and his vision turned clearer. Even his brain could react faster.


    "Go."


    A wisp of Golden Core Dharmic powers was injected directly into his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Buzz!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword floated beside him and emitted a low sword hum.


    "It''s truly different. This Golden Core Dharmic powers might not be pure Sword Immortal Dharmic Power but it is a much higher grade after all. Although I can only produce seventy percent of its effects when using it to control the flying sword, it still marks a huge difference from my Connate False Core." Qin Yun felt excited.


    His Connate False Core might have been condensed through having sword intent as its soul, allowing it to match typical Connate True Cores but compared to Connate Golden Cores, it was still far inferior.


    Back in his battle with Ji Lie, he was forced into defending! Even Ji Lie dared to use his body to withstand his attacks. If Ji Lie had met a sword immortal at a similar realm as he was, would Ji Lie dare to use his body to withstand strikes from a sword immortal when it was known that sword immortals were best at the offensive? The Godfiend lineage might result in powerful physiques but it was still inferior to the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulations. Typically, those from the Godfiend lineage would focus on cultivating various divine powers. Ji Lie had focused on the divine power, Power Arms. Him being able to withstand Qin Yun''s flying sword with his body was clearly because Qin Yun''s flying sword lacked strength.


    "This Golden Core Outer core comes the Scenic Mountain Sect''s lineage but its Dharmic powers are extremely pure." Qin Yun thought to himself. "By using it to control a flying sword, I''ll only have seventy percent effectiveness but it''s enough to greatly increase my strength. Unfortunately, there''s no way for it to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    The nurturing of an Intrinsic Flying Sword needed Sword Immortal Dharmic Power. It was best at controlling flying swords.


    "Swoosh."


    The feeling of having his soul constantly nourished by the Golden Core Dharmic powers and transforming left Qin Yun somewhat intoxicated.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong each consumed a Golden Core Outer Pill, they felt their bodies changing and the transformation of themselves as lifeforms.


    Hong Lingtong closed his eyes for a long time before he opened them to look at Qin Yun. He said with a smile, "Consuming a Golden Core Outer Pill allows one to have five hundred years of longevity. Brother Qin Yun, it''s quite a waste for you. It''s pretty much a certainty that you will reach the Connate Golden Core realm in the future."


    "That''s also in the future! Even if I were to cultivate to the Connate True Core realm, and control my Intrinsic Flying Sword with Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers, I might only come close to the Golden Core Outer core''s strength at the moment. However, in the nourishment of the soul, I guess that even when I form my Connate True Core, it would not match the soul nourishment that the Golden Core Outer Pill brings," said Qin Yun. "After the soul becomes stronger, my cultivating speed would also greatly increase."


    "My realm will also grow higher."


    "That way, the Connate True Core that I eventually condense will be even more powerful. The Connate Golden Core I obtain would be the same," Qin Yun explained.


    By taking the lead once, he would forever be in the lead.


    Now, his soul could match a Connate Golden Core cultivator ahead of time. It would also benefit Qin Yun for life.


    Qin Yun had made up his mind.


    During times of normal combat, he would use the Connate False Core''s Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers! He would use the Golden Core Dharmic powers only when necessary. Now, the Golden Core Dharmic powers were constantly nourishing his soul and body. According to legend, the enhancement of his soul and body to the level of the Connate Golden Core only needed to expend about half of the Golden Core Outer core''s Dharmic powers. The remaining had to be used sparingly for it would be completely depleted eventually.


    "Let''s split these pills simply," said Qin Yun. With that said, he threw eight bottles of Spirit Pills at him. "As agreed upon, I''ll hand you thirty percent of your share. The remaining seventy percent will be given to you when you are at the Connate True Core realm. By the way, how do you plan on storing this Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill?"


    "Give it to me." Hong Lingtong immediately stored it away. He had taken out a wooden box from the Cosmic Bag to store the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill.


    "Do you want this jade platform?" Hong Lingtong pointed at the lustrous jade platform. "It has a value of a fourth-grade Dharma treasure."


    "Keep it then." Qin Yun was at a loss whether to laugh or cry. "You sure have wicked eyes."


    Hong Lingtong immediately stored the jade platform into his Cosmic Bag.


    "Oh? Someone is approaching. It''s¡­ it''s Ji Lie." The cracked turtle shell in Hong Lingtong''s body trembled slightly. It caused Hong Lingtong''s expression to change slightly as he said hurriedly, "Let''s leave quickly. Their ability to find treasure is inferior to mine. If we get embroiled with them, they would snatch every treasure we encounter."


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun nodded as well.


    The two immediately left.


    About thirty seconds later, Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince arrived at the spot, with Ji Lie holding onto an eight trigram disk.


    "That''s not right." Ji Lie frowned. "Why is it gone?"


    "Elder Lie, the treasure is gone?" asked Sixteenth Prince.


    "The ''Treasure Seeking Disk'' that His Majesty bestowed us did sense treasures here but now, the signal is gone." Ji Lie shook his head. "Forget it. The array formation in here should have had pills stored in here. We have already discovered twelve Spirit Pills and I believe a particular pill has been taken away by someone else."


    "Let''s continue searching," Ji Lie said solemnly. "The pills that Immortal Scenic Yang is most famous for is his Golden Core Outer Pills. Even if he has passed away, he should have left behind two or three Golden Core Outer Pills. Two of them can match a first-grade Dharma treasure. If he leaves behind eight or nine of them, it will be quite a bountiful harvest."


    "Yea." Sixteenth Prince''s eyes lit up.


    The both of them continued searching.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong later managed to find two other Spirit Pills.


    "Oh?" Hong Lingtong did some calculations with his fingers as he held his wooden stave. Now, with the Golden Core Dharmic powers, he was a lot better at inference. He suddenly gave a look of pleasant surprise and came to a halt.


    "What happened?" Qin Yun asked curiously.


    Hong Lingtong smiled at Qin Yun. "I just sensed Miss Yi. Thankfully, I have the Golden Core Outer core or I wouldn''t have found her so quickly. Furthermore, I have inferred where the exit to the array formation is. Brother Qin Yun, do you plan on meeting up with Miss Yi before leaving this array formation? Or do you want to continue searching for treasures in the array formation?"


    "I want to meet Yi Xiao first." Qin Yun did not wish for any further delays.


    "Alright, alright. I''ll lead the way." Hong Lingtong was rendered helpless. At the same time, he said, "I suggest that we leave the array formation after we regroup. I guess the most precious treasure within this array formation is the Golden Core Outer Pills. We should make full use of our time and head for the next array formation! The further ahead, the more we can come into contact with Immortal Scenic Yang''s most important treasures."

 157 Treasure hidden in the Starry Sky

    Chapter 157: Treasure hidden in the Starry Sky


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun followed beside Hong Lingtong who held his wooden stave and proceeded leisurely.


    "Miss Yi is a few hundred feet ahead of us." Hong Lingtong confidently pointed ahead.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun immediately proceeded forward.


    "Hey, wait for me." Hong Lingtong immediately chased after him.


    Qin Yun''s sword intent domain quickly sensed light green ripples before discovering Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun?" Yi Xiao had a delighted look as she ran over. At the same time, she put away her life-preservation Dharma treasure. "What a coincidence that we managed to meet each other."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "Yea, it''s such a coincidence."


    Standing behind him, Hong Lingtong rubbed his nose and thought to himself, "Coincidence my ass. It was all from my inference!"


    "Of course, Brother Hong played an important role in us being able to reunite." Qin Yun felt relieved when he was with Yi Xiao.


    "Thank you, Brother Hong." Yi Xiao looked at Hong Lingtong as well.


    "It''s only right to do so," said Hong Lingtong immediately.


    "Brother Hong is skilled in array formations and he has already inferred the exit. Let''s go out." Qin Yun said to Yi Xiao.


    "Let''s leave quickly," Yi Xiao said somewhat helplessly. "There''s white fog everywhere. Although I chanced upon a bottle of Spirit Pills, they were only at the fifth-grade. I can''t stand this place any longer. Let''s leave quickly."


    Hong Lingtong said confidently, "I''ll lead the way."


    The trio traversed another few thousand feet and did several turns. Unperceptibly, the fog ahead gradually lessened and eventually, completely disappeared.


    "Phew."


    The trio walked out of the white fog, leaving the vast expanse of white fog behind them.


    "We are out!" Yi Xiao looked delighted.


    "And we should be the first ones out," said Hong Lingtong with a smile. Qin Yun also observed the area up ahead carefully. There was a massive hall which was ancient and unadorned. Smooth boulders paved a way and the roof of the hall was dark. In the darkness, there was faint starlight twinkling.


    The black roof dome with the twinkling starlight¡­ made it resemble the starry night sky.


    Shoo!


    One of the starlights suddenly expanded and flew out from the deep depths of the black roof dome. Following that, it approached them. Qin Yun and company could tell at a glance that the starlight that flew toward them was a sledgehammer that effused a glow.


    "Dharma treasure." Qin Yun waved his hand and sent two sword beams out, wrapping the sledgehammer that was rather close to them. As he wrapped it, the glow on the sledgehammer''s surface constantly flashed in an alternating manner with the black roof''s starlights behind it.


    "Oh? I can''t take it down?" Qin Yun was baffled.


    "Go."


    The purple flying sword by his waist instantly unsheathed itself and slashed at the sledgehammer but it continued shimmering with the lustrous light across its surface. It was unperturbed at all.


    "It''s an array formation," Hong Lingtong''s eyes lit up. "Every speck of starlight on this dark roof dome should be a Dharma treasure! There are many Dharma treasures hidden in here but every one of them is being held back by an array formation. Furthermore, a large number of small arrays form a large array together. In order to retrieve the sledgehammer, the array formation has to be cracked first. Using force? It''s useless using force against an Essence Soul immortal''s array formations."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Brother Qin Yun, use your sword beam to hold onto this sledgehammer and prevent it from flying away. I need time to crack this array formation," said Hong Lingtong.


    "Alright, I''ll be counting on you," said Qin Yun.


    "I only know a little about array formations. But this treasure-concealing array formation has large arrays interspersed with small arrays, and the different small arrays are fused together." Yi Xiao could not help but knit her brows. When Qin Yun saw this, he laughed out loud. "Yi Xiao, at least you managed to have a read of it. All I see is twinkling on their surface. I do not understand anything beyond that."


    Hong Lingtong began his calculations with his fingers as he said with a smile, "Brother Qin Yun, everything follows rules, just like your flying sword arts has different strength depending on the different sword kinesis arts you use. This array formation''s setup uses the five elements as well as Yin and Yang as its basis. The more powerful an array formation, the more natural it is! For example, this array formation resembles the night sky. Thankfully, Immortal Scenic Yang is only testing us, allowing us to crack the array formation. Over time, it will become easier. If he was unwilling to leave his treasures to juniors, we would not be able to take them away."


    Qin Yun nodded. He had not been cultivating for long, so how could he have time to study array formations?


    However, the older a cultivator was, the more knowledgeable they would typically be. Especially when one''s strength reached a bottleneck, they would begin studying other domains.


    Essence Soul immortals with eternal life could study various domains. For example, Immortal Scenic Yang was best at the Tu?ita Divine Fire. His alchemical skills were ranked as one of the top few in all of history. As for the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning, he knew a thing or two. As for array formations, it needed no further elaboration. How many master experts in talisman amulets would not be well-versed in array formations?


    "This sledgehammer''s array formation is relatively easy. I believe it''s not some powerful treasure either." As Hong Lingtong spoke, he pointed at two spots. "Brother Qin Yun, strike these two spots and you will be able to obtain the sledgehammer."


    With that said, Hong Lingtong released two beams of Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers and pointed at two points of starlight.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded and immediately released two flying swords. They flew to the two spots in the black roof dome, traversing a thousand feet in the darkness before striking the two blobs of starlight.


    Boom! Boom!


    Accompanied by two blasts, Qin Yun felt that the sledgehammer he enveloped with his sword beam lose its binding resistance instantly. The starlight on its surface also dissipated. Qin Yun immediately retrieved it by bringing it in front of him before extending his hand to grab it.


    "Fourth-grade Dharma treasure," said Qin Yun when he saw it. At this point, Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong were very calm when it came to fourth-grade Dharma treasures.


    "Here comes another one." Hong Lingtong looked up.


    Qin Yun put away the fourth-grade Dharma treasure and looked at the black dome above him. Another beam of starlight fell and it turned increasingly clear. It was a tiny red flag. Qin Yun immediately released a sword beam to hold on to it.


    The twinkling starlight on the tiny red flag was clearly complicated. Qin Yun found it somewhat uncomfortable just from looking at it.


    "The array formation that seals this tiny red flag is a lot more powerful." Hong Lingtong frowned and fell into deep thought after speaking.


    "It''s too difficult." Yi Xiao muttered after studying it for a while.


    However, Qin Yun attempted with his Intrinsic Flying Sword to attempt cracking the array by force but he failed.


    Despite there being many Dharma treasures in the black dome, one had to crack the arrays to obtain the treasure! This was Immortal Scenic Yang''s rule.


    "Phew."


    Moments later, another beam of starlight fell, and as it came nearer, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao identified it.


    "Oh?" Enveloped in the starlight was a flying sword. It was such a dark purple it looked nearly black. It also looked ordinary at a perfunctory glance. But on careful observation, there was an alluring luster on the flying sword''s surface. The more one looked at it, the more infatuated one became with it. Qin Yun immediately released a sword beam to hold onto the flying sword. The starlight on the flying sword flashed. Again, it could not be taken down.


    "A flying sword," Yi Xiao looked thrilled. "Qin Yun, you might be able to use it in the future."


    Hong Lingtong turned his head and had a slight change in expression. He said, "Brother Qin Yun, this flying sword and this red flag have similar array formations sealing them. Tell me, which one should I crack first?"


    "Haven''t you been trying to figure out this red flag for a long time?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Both the two array formations are very difficult. It will probably take me a long while to crack them," said Hong Lingtong. "The amount of time I have taken is nothing."


    At the same time, Hong Lingtong sent Qin Yun a voice transmission. "Brother Qin Yun, you have the Golden Core Outer core and this flying sword appears extremely powerful. If you obtain it, you will be able to use it immediately."


    "Alright, then get the flying sword." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Okay."


    Hong Lingtong began to infer the array formation that sealed the flying sword.


    With time, beams of starlight would plummet from the black roof in sporadic intervals. Treasures would drop but despite releasing his sword beams to envelop them in a bid to prevent them from flying away, Qin Yun was unable to retrieve them without the array formation cracked.


    Phew! Phew!


    The cold-looking Bai Junyue led her younger sister out of the white fog from afar. Walking beside her were Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu who were conversing amid laughter.


    "Haha, we are finally out of there," said Eighth Zhu with a laugh.


    "Sister," Bai Junyu was looking far ahead. When she saw Qin Yun and company controlling thirteen Dharma treasures in midair, she could not help but laugh. "Look, that Qin Yun has released his sword beams to trap all those Dharma treasures but he can''t retrieve any one of them. Can''t he tell that there are array formations sealing every one of them?"


    "Brother Qin Yun, strike these five points of starlight and you will be able to retrieve that flying sword." Hong Lingtong wiped the sweat from his forehead and said with a voice transmission. At the same time, he released his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers to point at five spots.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun instantly released five flying swords. There were fifth and eighth-grade flying swords among them.


    After striking five spots, the twinkling starlight that lingered around the dark purple flying sword extinguished immediately. The binding strength vanished as well. Qin Yun immediately held it in his hand.


    "Impressive." Bai Junyu and Eighth Zhu looked at Hong Lingtong in astonishment. Both of them were skilled in array formations and naturally knew how difficult the array formation that bound the flying sword was.


    Qin Yun held the palm-sized dark purple flying sword in his hand and felt a burning sensation coming from it. He could not help but be overjoyed.

 158 Earth fire

    Chapter 158: Earth fire


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    With a flip of his hand, the dark purple flying sword was concealed in his sleeve.


    A wisp of Golden Core Outer core Dharmic powers infused the flying sword and information transmitted from the flying sword into his brain. Qin Yun learned that the flying sword''s name was Heavy Sand Sword, a product of Divine Artisan Lane. Some powerful flying swords were the Intrinsic Flying Swords of sword immortals but there were others that were smithed by master blacksmiths. The Heavy Sand Sword was one such an example.


    The Heavy Sand Sword was refined from the material, Meteorite Heavy Sand. Each grain was five kilograms and eight hundred grains weighed four thousand kilograms. The Heavy Sand Sword''s true weight was 4950 kilograms and the smithing and refinement process took a decade. Once the Heavy Sand Sword was used, its strength would be tremendous due to its great weight.


    With a thought, Qin Yun shaped the flying sword to become long and soft. He wrapped it around his arm as a circular band. With the Golden Core Outer core, he could even control first-grade Dharma treasures.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword is able to produce strength at the second-grade Dharma treasure. Although it''s very fast, its strength is still somewhat lacking. The Heavy Sand Sword is completely the opposite," thought Qin Yun. "The two can complement each other."


    "By using this flying sword together with my Intrinsic Flying Sword, my strength would greatly increase."


    Qin Yun was secretly delighted.


    How could ordinary flying swords be compared to the Heavy Sand Sword? They were far weaker!


    ¡­


    Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince were the last to walk out of the white fog.


    "Despite searching all over, we failed to find the Golden Core Outer Pills." Ji Lie frowned as he walked out the fog. From afar, he saw Qin Yun, Bai Junyue, Eighth Zhu, Fang Yu, and company binding Dharma treasures, trying their best to crack the array formations to obtain them. "How can Immortal Scenic Yang not leave behind the most impressive Immortal Pills that he refined his entire life? Could it be that one of them had obtained it?"


    "Elder Lie, there are many Dharma treasures." Sixteenth Prince urged.


    "Hmph!"


    Ji Lie shot him a glance and said with a sneer. "The three most famous first-grade Dharma treasures, White Dew, Ice Talisman Amulet, and Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet have all been taken away. Don''t be caught up with the numerous Dharma treasures. Perhaps the best is only a second-grade Dharma treasure. Quickly think of a way to find the Golden Core Cauldron and the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet. All of these added up can''t even be compared to those two items."


    "Alright." Sixteenth Prince nodded.


    The two of them immediately began the search within the hall.


    Despite probing everywhere, every spot was sealed shut in the hall other than the way towards the white fog.


    Qin Yun and company were cracking the array formations for treasure. And from the way they cracked the array formations, Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu were equal! Ranked next was Fang Yu, then Bai Junyu and Yi Fenggu.


    "I won''t touch the second-grade Dharma treasures." Fang Yu was afraid. "For such a powerful Dharma treasure, the most vicious people among those present are Bai Junyue and Ji Lie. Bai Junyue is famous for being cold and heartless while Ji Lie is highly overbearing. I have to keep a low profile."


    Deacon Yuan had escaped after obtaining the first-grade flying sword, White Dew.


    Fang Yu was trembling with fright. Despite being great at cracking arrays, he did not dare make an attempt to obtain the second-grade Dharma treasures.


    "Fang Yu, you are best at array formations in the Yue Prefecture, right?" Ji Lie walked over and looked at him.


    "Greetings, Daoist Ji." Fang Yu remained extremely humble. "My skill in array formations is inferior to Daoist Hong and company. Being best in the Yue Prefecture is just a result of empty praises."


    Ji Lie said coldly, "Go crack the array formations and I''ll retrieve the treasures. Thirty percent will be given to you."


    Fang Yu was astounded secretly but he showed a look of delight. He said immediately, "I''ll follow Daoist Ji''s instructions."


    "Elder Lie," said Sixteenth Prince with a voice transmission. "Don''t you know array formations too?"


    Ji Lie had been cultivating for three centuries and for him to reach the intent domain realm, he naturally knew array formations.


    "My skill in array formations is only on par with Yi Fenggu and the rest. This Fang Yu has been concealing his abilities. However, the imperial government has already gathered detailed intelligence. His skill in array formation is far better than Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu." Ji Lie said with a voice transmission. "With him helping us, it will be a lot easier."


    "Oh." Sixteenth Prince was enlightened as he looked at Fang Yu carefully.


    Fang Yu, who had been keeping a low profile, was actually the best at array formations?


    With Ji Lie as his backer and also under Ji Lie''s coercion, Fang Yu could only do his best to crack the arrays.


    Fang Yu, who was openly acknowledged as being best at array formations in the Yue Prefecture, was indeed better than Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu.


    ¡­


    Over time, the treasures at the top of the black dome were retrieved one after another. With each array formation cracked, the entire array turned deficient, making it easier to crack it.


    Qin Yun''s party obtained eleven Dharma treasures, with two of them being second-grade Dharma treasures! They had obtained the most number of items since they were the earliest.


    After dozens of treasures were taken away, the entire black roof dome collapsed with a boom. Light began to emanate as the entire hall began to tremble.


    "Rumble!" The hall was rumbling as a wall slowly descended. Qin Yun and company turned to focus their gazes on it.


    After the massive wall descended, there was a heat wave that surged toward them.


    The entire hall''s temperature rose rapidly. If an egg was placed in the hall, it would be quickly cooked! The air distorted and thankfully, even the weakest cultivator present had the strength equal to that of the Connate True Core realm. They were easily able to withstand the high temperatures by simply releasing their Dharmic powers to insulate themselves.


    "That is¡­" Everyone''s heart raced as they stared into the distance.


    After the wall descended, it revealed a gigantic space.


    In the middle was a ten-foot-tall alchemical cauldron. There were no flames for tens of feet around the cauldron but beneath the cauldron was billowing flames. Further beyond the cauldron, there were monstrous cauldron flames everywhere. They took up ninety-nine percent of the area and only the cauldron''s region was isolated because of a hidden array formation.


    "Could it be an alchemy lab?" Eighth Zhu whispered. "By directing Earth fire here, the Earth fire will circle around, leaving only the middle isolated from the Earth fire?"


    "Golden Core Cauldron." Bai Junyue and Bai Junyu stared at the huge alchemical cauldron.


    "Transcendent-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong also felt stifled.


    "This Earth fire is too powerful." Yi Fenggu''s expression changed slightly. When he looked at Ji Lie, Bai Junyue, and company''s eyes, he knew that it was time for everyone to do something drastic.


    The transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron was more valuable than all the previous treasures combined together.


    Typically, Dharma treasures at the same grade had different valuations. For example, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle set was a lot more valuable than typical first-grade Dharma treasures. Also, if the flying swords, White Dew and Azure Water were to fuse as one, they would reach the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure level, making them more valuable than the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    As for transcendent-grade Dharma treasures, they also had their differences.


    The weak ones were about the level of the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    The strong ones were infinitely close to a Numinous treasure!


    The Golden Core Cauldron was considered average. It was equivalent to about two or three sets of Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    "Earth fire?" Ji Lie frowned as he was the first to extend his palm.


    Phew.


    His arm expanded as he reached his palm to the side of the flaring Earth fire. The Dharma treasure, Fiend Annihilation Hand, was hidden beneath his skin as his gigantic fingers gently touched the Earth fire that suffused black light.


    Ji Lie cultivated in a divine power known as Power Arms. His entire arm could match that of a Dharma treasure but even so, the skin on his fingers was quickly turning yellow from the burning flames.


    "What?" Ji Lie''s expression changed as his arm shrunk and withdrew. He looked at his burnt fingers. "I cultivate in Power Arms, making my arms extremely formidable. Now, my fingers are injured by the Earth fire. If my body were to enter, I''ll probably be burnt to a crisp."


    He gritted his teeth.


    "I''ll give it another try." Ji Lie immediately powered his Dharma treasure as the Fiend Annihilation Hand appeared on the surface of his palm. Even his entire arm was covered with a black metallic layer.


    "Go."


    His arm, completely covered by a black metallic sheen, expanded to hundreds of feet long and entered the roaring Earth fire. But when his arm reached a distance about fifty or sixty feet away from the Golden Core Cauldron, his arm could no longer extend any further.


    "I really can''t reach it." Ji Lie''s gigantic arms waved around and with the Fiend Annihilation Hand protecting him, his arm could withstand the Earth fire but it was insufficient to reach the Golden Core Cauldron.


    "If only my Power Arms were cultivated to a stronger state." thought an anxious Ji Lie.


    Qin Yun, Bai Junyue, and company were watching from the side. Their hearts had tightened when they saw Ji Lie''s arm expand to grab at the cauldron but when they saw that no matter how much he flailed his massive arm to no avail, they found it amusing.


    "It''s not long enough." Bai Junyue sent out sixteen of the thirty-six stars that were revolving around her. They rapidly flew to the Golden Core Cauldron after entering the roaring Earth fire.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The stars attempted to pull the Golden Core Cauldron out by clinging to various parts of it.


    Buzz¡ª¡ª


    However, there was an array formation around the Golden Core Cauldron. Not only did it isolate the Earth fire, it also protected the Golden Core Cauldron. No matter how much strength she used, she was unable to lift the Golden Core Cauldron out.


    "It can''t be lifted out." Eighth Zhu grinned and shook his head. "Cauldrons are usually fixed in place with an array formation. It is meant to prevent the cauldron from shaking when the Earth fire bursts out during the alchemical process. In order to bring it out, one has to crack the array."


    "We are so far from it and with the burning Earth fire blocking us, there''s no way to see the array formation. How are we to crack it?" Hong Lingtong shook his head as well.


    Ji Lie looked at Fang Yu beside him.


    Fang Yu said immediately as well, "There''s no other way around it. In order to crack an array, one has to be able to see the array formation first! With the Earth fire blocking it, it''s only possible for me to think of a way to crack the array formation unless I''m sent to a spot beside the cauldron to study it carefully."


    "Send someone in?" Ji Lie frowned. Although his palm could become big, it was impossible to perfectly ward off the Earth fire while holding a person and sending him in. The might of the Earth fire was something no one present could resist with their bodies.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Qin Yun also released two flying swords. They shot through the blazing Earth fire and held up the Golden Core Cauldron, but similarly, they were unable to lift it at all.


    "It''s no use. One has to enter to crack the array." Hong Lingtong shook his head. "And to enter requires one to ward off the Earth fire."


    Bai Junyue also walked to the Earth fire''s side.


    This made everyone look at her. Thirty-six stars that revolved around her formed a Heavenly Cycle barrier of light. As the barrier withstood the engulfment of the Earth Fire, it collapsed almost instantly after a few grinding sounds were produced.


    "I can''t withstand it." Bai Junyue knitted her brows together.


    "Among your Bai family''s current generation of Connate Golden Cores, none of you have gained insights into the Heavenly Cycle concept." Ji Lie scoffed. "If you had insights into the Heavenly Cycle concepts and controlled the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle, you would definitely be able to withstand the Earth fire perfectly. But now, by only using the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle''s might¡­ it''s still slightly lacking."


    "It''s as if you can enter it?" Bai Junyue retorted.


    Ji Lie was immediately rendered at a loss for words.


    "Hmph." Ji Lie snorted coldly and did not say another word.


    "Since Senior Ji Lie and Fairy Bai are unable to withstand the Earth fire, I guess we should think of other ways around it," said Eighth Zhu with a smile. "Those without the strength will not be able to bring the powerful treasures away."


    Qin Yun had been observing the Earth fire carefully and at that moment, he walked forward.


    He wanted to attempt to withstand the Earth fire with his Cyclic Sword Flash!

 159 Transcendent-grade Dharma Treasure, Golden Core Cauldron

    Chapter 159: Transcendent-grade Dharma Treasure, Golden Core Cauldron


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Oh?" Ji Lie saw that not far from him, Qin Yun was walking towards the Earth fire. He could not help but scoff.


    However, Sixteenth Prince, who was standing beside him, commented, "Elder Lie, this Qin Yun''s flying sword arts are extremely formidable. Perhaps, he might be able to withstand the Earth fire."


    "You think too highly of him." Ji Lie shook his head. "Back when he controlled a weaker flying sword to produce the Heavenly Cycle, it was still directly destroyed by me. Later on, he used an extremely powerful flying sword to defend against me. The extent to which his flying sword can produce the Heavenly Cycle is limited no matter how powerful it is! Compared to Fairy Bai''s Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle, it is still quite inferior. After all, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle is a first-grade Dharma treasure and it nears perfection in the production of the Heavenly Cycle. The only flaw is that Fairy Bai doesn''t grasp the Heavenly Cycle concepts, so she is unable to withstand the Earth fire."


    Elsewhere, Bai Junyue and Bai Junyu were watching as well.


    "Sister, his Heavenly Cycle flying sword art should be inferior to the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle, right?" Bai Junyu asked.


    Bai Junyue usually had a cold demeanor. The way she looked at Qin Yun was a lot warmer for she could see a shadow of another person on Qin Yun. She whispered, "His advantage is his powerful sword intent, while my advantage is in the powerful first-grade Dharmic powers. However, he is only at the Connate False Core realm and his Dharmic powers are weak. I guess he won''t be able to withstand it."


    Yi Xiao, Yi Fenggu, and Hong Lingtong watched nervously.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, if you were to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron, you can sell it to my Zhu family." Eighth Zhu shouted with a smile.


    When Qin Yun heard Eighth Zhu''s shout, he smiled. "I''ll count on your blessings. However, if I were to retrieve the Golden Core Cauldron, it will still depend on the price offered. It will be given to whoever offers the best."


    "Being way over your head." The distant Ji Lie scoffed when he heard that.


    However, Qin Yun walked to the side of the Earth fire. As the terrifying temperatures inundated him in waves, it illuminated his face red.


    "Golden Core Cauldron. If I were to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron, there will truly be nothing left that I would need to worry about." Qin Yun thought to himself. "Be it selling it to Numinous Treasure Mountain or to the imperial government, I will be able to exchange it for great prices. It would even be very easy for me to directly hire a Godfiend Guard to station themselves in my Qin family, protecting it for centuries."


    A treasure like the Golden Core Cauldron obviously had to be sold upon obtaining it!


    Qin Yun had no use for it himself. The transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron, could barely be controlled by Connate Golden Core cultivators that had extremely robust foundations. However, the refinement of pills needed perfect control! Any tiny mishap would result in the failure of the alchemical process. Therefore, it could only be wielded by immortals. Furthermore, they had to be grandmaster alchemists. If not, with ordinary alchemical skills, it would be a waste using the Golden Core Cauldron.


    Typical factions could not afford it. And even if they did, it was useless.


    However, the imperial government would definitely want it! The origins of the Daoist movement, Numinous Treasure Mountain similarly wanted it! The Yi family and the Zhu family, thousand-year-old family clans, would also have thoughts on it. When the time came, requesting the imperial government to send a Godfiend Guard or Numinous Treasure Mountain to send one or two legendary Yellow-scarved Strongmen to guard the Qin family would not be difficult. Would there be any fear of fiendish demons trying to rob his treasures?


    "Phew."


    The Earth fire flared.


    Qin Yun waved his hand and sent his Intrinsic Flying Sword flying out. It immediately produced the Cyclic Sword Flash, transforming into a massive Cyclic Sword Flash barrier of light. Qin Yun floated up and was protected by the barrier.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash attempted to touch the Earth fire as the Earth fire soared with menacing might.


    It was only for an instant.


    Despite the Cyclic Sword Flash''s barrier trying its best to divert the force that bore down on it, the barrier was suffering the brunt of the mighty Earth fire everywhere. The barrier broke apart and dissipated directly.


    "He failed."


    Yi Xiao, Eighth Zhu, Lunatic Zhu, Bai Junyue, Bai Junyu, and company were rather calm. Even Yi Xiao only bore a sliver of anticipation but she knew how powerful the Earth fire was.


    "Do you think you are capable of withstanding the Earth fire''s might?" Ji Lie could not help but scoff when he saw Qin Yun fail.


    "Qin Yun likely hasn''t used his Golden Core Outer core." Hong Lingtong thought to himself. "Back when he lacked the Golden Core Outer core, he was able to withstand Ji Lie! If he were to use the power from the Golden Core Outer core, his flying sword arts will be enhanced to a brand new level. He should be able to withstand the Earth fire."


    ¡­


    After one failed attempt, Qin Yun made a second attempt.


    "Power from the Golden Core Outer core." Qin Yun secretly diverted the Golden Core Outer core''s power towards his Intrinsic Flying Sword. With a whoosh, his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier was produced once again. At that moment, the surface of the barrier looked no different. But in fact, it was a lot stronger, with most of it converged.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The sword beam barrier touched the soaring Earth fire once again, allowing it to be clawed away by the Earth fire.


    Qin Yun immediately sensed that the casting of the Cyclic Sword Flash had a harmonious feel. Each layer of strength was diverted away, perfectly defending against the Earth fire''s might. Furthermore, that was not his limit! It felt like he had only used fifty percent of his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier''s strength.


    After affirming the matter, Qin Yun immediately dispersed his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier voluntarily but feigned as though it had been dissipated.


    "He actually managed to resist for a while before it dissipated." Ji Lie frowned slightly when he saw the situation.


    However, Qin Yun turned around and walked towards Yi Xiao and Hong Lingtong with a frown. As he walked, he shook his head.


    When he came near them, a sword flash whizzed, forming the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. It enveloped Qin Yun, Yi Fenggu, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Fenggu within.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, what''s the matter?" Yi Fenggu was confounded.


    "Qin Yun?" Yi Xiao felt a little taken aback.


    "You succeeded?" However, Hong Lingtong was overjoyed.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "Don''t worry. This Cyclic Sword Flash of mine can resist the Earth fire!"


    The Bai sisters, Eighth Zhu, Lunatic Zhu, and Ji Lie, Sixteenth Prince, and Fang Yu were astonished as they looked at the quartet that was being enveloped by the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "You can resist the Earth fire?" Ji Lie refused to believe it.


    "Haha, do you think my strength is something you can fathom?" Qin Yun roared with laughter.


    At the same time, Qin Yun transmitted his voice to his three partners. "Hong Lingtong, you have to enter with me to crack the array formation. Yi Xiao, I''m afraid Ji Lie will harm you if you stay here. Be it the first-grade Dharma treasure on you or the fact that you can be used to threaten me would be problematic. As for fellow Daoist Yi Fenggu, are you staying here or do you want to enter with me?"


    "Of course, I''ll enter with you," said Yi Fenggu through a voice transmission. "However, Daoist Qin, are you certain?"


    "Can you resist the Earth fire?" Yi Xiao found it unbelievable too.


    "You will see with your own eyes in a while," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    Phew.


    The quartet flew towards the Earth fire.


    "Elder Lie, should we stop them?" Sixteenth Prince asked immediately.


    "Can you crack open his Heavenly Cycle sword art?" Ji Lie shook his head. He had attempted before and it was impossible to do so. At the same time, he said with a voice transmission, "Besides, if he can enter, then let him enter. The rest of us can''t lift the Golden Core Cauldron out anyway! If he were able to retrieve it, it would be a good thing. As for after he retrieves it¡­ Hmph! It wouldn''t be too late to think of means to snatch it from him."


    "Alright." Sixteenth Prince nodded.


    Everyone stared intently.


    Yi Xiao, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Fenggu were carefully watching the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier in front of them. As they flew, they approached the Earth fire and finally, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier made contact with the Earth fire.


    Black light streams flowed across the Earth fire. It was also ablaze with red flames that soared wantonly upwards.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    A third of the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier entered the Earth fire''s confines and no matter how much the Earth fire scorched it, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier continued its revolutions, perfectly withstanding it.


    "He withstood it."


    "He really, really withstood it." In a blink of an eye, the barrier had withstood the flames for a few seconds.


    It left everyone dumbfounded from afar.


    "Enter!"


    Only then did Qin Yun rapidly fly in. The four of them flew extremely fast as they whistled hundreds of feet out. Along the way, they passed through fiery pangs of Earth fire but they failed to deter the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. Following that, the four landed in the alchemy lab in the middle. There was an array formation isolating them, so no Earth fire infiltrated for dozens of feet.


    "They really got in." Bai Junyue looked from afar as Qin Yun withstood the Earth fire. She said softly, "He is even stronger than me!"


    A hint of softness appeared in Bai Junyue''s eyes.


    Her brother was also a lot more powerful than she was. Similarly, he was once extremely illustrious.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company stood beside the Golden Core Cauldron. Through his sword intent domain, he could sense that there was no danger several dozen feet out. Only then did he disperse his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier away.


    The four landed on the ground.


    "This is the Golden Core Cauldron." Yi Fenggu and Yi Xiao looked at the gargantuan cauldron in front of them. It was bronze in color and Earth fire was burning beneath it. The entire cauldron appeared ordinary but on a careful look, the surface of the cauldron was adorned with countless patterns. And these patterns looked more profound the more they looked. It was unfathomable.


    "It lives up to its name as a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. The runic patterns on it must be produced by an immortal that is best at smithing artifacts." When Hong Lingtong looked at the Golden Core Cauldron, he turned a little infatuated. He said under his breath, "Furthermore, according to legend, it was refined through the collective efforts of several immortals."


    "Now, there''s no owner to power it. But once it''s powered, I believe it would become even more powerful," Qin Yun commented. "Why? Brother Hong, do you also know alchemy?"


    "Just a little." Hong Lingtong looked at Qin Yun. "Even in our Jiang Prefecture, I probably can''t even rank within the top ten. It''s really not worth mentioning."


    "Take a look at the surrounding array formation. Quickly crack it so that we can take this Golden Core Cauldron away," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong immediately lowered his head and observed the array formation carefully. Without the Earth fire blocking him, he could naturally see the array formation clearly.


    "Can you crack it?" asked Qin Yun.


    As Hong Lingtong studied it, he said, "Don''t worry, since Immortal Scenic Yang left this for his descendants, the array formation shouldn''t be too complicated. Yea, give me an hour. I''m confident of cracking it."


    When Yi Fenggu heard this, he immediately said, "Fellow Daoist Qin, my dear fellow Daoist Qin Yun, with your relationship with Yi Xiao, you have to sell this Golden Core Cauldron to my Yi family. Even if the Yi family cannot offer the appropriate price, we still have the Divine Firmament Chapter backing us."

 160 Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Flags

    Chapter 160: Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Flags


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Patriarch Yi''s treasures might not have been inferior to Immortal Scenic Yang''s, but all Immortal Scenic Yang needed was the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet to dominate the world! The Golden Core Cauldron was precious for his alchemy. It was impossible for him to sell it! If Immortal Scenic Yang wanted to amass treasures to buy something similar to the Golden Core Cauldron, he would have found it very tough to do. It was the same with Patriarch Yi. It was truly quite unaffordable.


    However, they had the Divine Firmament Chapter backing them!


    "Second Uncle." Yi Xiao felt a little helpless.


    "Did I say something wrong? Your relationship with Qin Yun is not bad," said Yi Fenggu immediately.


    Qin Yun smiled as he looked at Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun," said Yi Xiao through a voice transmission. "If the Divine Firmament Chapter can offer something that satisfies you, feel free to sell it to the Yi family or the Divine Firmament Chapter. But if you are dissatisfied with our offers, it''s better you sell it to the imperial government or Numinous Treasure Mountain."


    In this world, the wealthiest faction was the imperial government followed by the origins of the Daoist movement, Numinous Treasure Mountain.


    After all, the imperial government was in control of the world. In terms of strength, it was more powerful than any sacred land! Furthermore, the imperial government followed the Godfiend lineage. There were many experts of the Godfiend lineage in its ranks.


    Numinous Treasure Mountain was the oldest faction! Its roots ran the deepest!


    As the place where the Dao Ancestor himself had taught the Dao, Numinous Treasure Mountain had never been stirred despite all the calamities the world experienced.


    "Don''t worry," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission. "I know that very well."


    "Brother Qin Yun," Although Hong Lingtong was attempting to crack the array, he had heard Yi Fenggu''s words. He said with a voice transmission, "I''ll let you determine who the Golden Core Cauldron should be sold to. I don¡¯t want any of the treasures you would exchange it for anyway. The treasures I¡¯ve already obtained in this immortal abode are more than enough."


    "We agreed on splitting it evenly!"


    "The one who withstood the Earth fire was you. I''d feel bad taking any reward for that."


    "Without your help, would I have been able to obtain the Golden Core Outer Pill? And without that, how could I have withstood the Earth fire? Furthermore, the one cracking the array at this moment is you," Qin Yun said with a voice transmission. "But alright, there''s no need to continue discussing this matter."


    Hong Lingtong was secretly sighing.


    Thankfully, he had invited Qin Yun to help him.


    "Brother Qin Yun, I won''t protest any further. We shall follow the original rule. After you sell the Golden Core Cauldron, just give me thirty percent of my share! When I enter the Connate True Core realm, you can hand me the remaining seventy percent," said Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission. "If I carry so many treasures now, I''m afraid I won''t be able to conceal the treasure halos. It will only bring me trouble."


    "Alright," replied Qin Yun through a voice transmission.


    "I also have something I need to request of you," said Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission.


    "If it¡¯s between us, speak freely," said Qin Yun smilingly through a voice transmission.


    "Let¡¯s keep the way we split the treasures between us. No one else should know of it," continued Hong Lingtong with a voice transmission. "Look at my limp arms and legs. Even with the Golden Core Outer core, I have yet to grasp the concepts of the Heavenly Dao! Any Connate Golden Core cultivator will send me scurrying for my life."


    "Alright," Qin Yun answered immediately.


    "Of course, by doing it this way, the rest of the world will think that you took all the treasures and trouble would befall you," said Hong Lingtong with a voice transmission. "I''m ashamed of that. I''ll definitely repay you when we return to Grand Dominance."


    Qin Yun could not help but chuckle to himself but he did not speak any further.


    To him, having the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure in hand meant that there was basically no difference between full danger and half danger. Furthermore, he had immensely good karma on him. Immortals and fiendcelestials would not dare touch him for fear of dying. Even if he were to obtain a Numinous treasure, immortals and fiendcelestials would still not dare to make a move. It would be less making a move and more committing suicide! As for enemies at the Connate Golden Core realm? Qin Yun was confident enough. With the treasures obtained from exchanging the Golden Core Cauldron, he was even more confident!


    ¡­


    On the other side of the fiery inferno.


    Ji Lie was watching them with burning eyes. "This Qin Yun''s flying sword art can really withstand the Earth fire? But I saw his ability clearly when I crossed swords with him. Could it be that he was feigning? Or that he has suddenly broken through to the Connate True Core realm? Or, perhaps, could it be that he has obtained the Golden Core Outer Pills?"


    At that moment, Ji Lie had too many guesses.


    But no matter what he guessed, it didn¡¯t change the fact that the Golden Core Cauldron would definitely land in Qin Yun''s hands.


    "Sister, Qin Yun is about to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron," said Bai Junyu immediately.


    "Yea."


    Bai Junyue was watching. "As long as we are in the immortal abode, there''s no chance of robbing him of the Golden Core Cauldron. And the moment he exits the immortal abode, he can just easily sell it off! Even now, there are many immortals secretly watching the immortal abode from outside."


    "Many immortals?" Bai Junyu asked in astonishment. They had insulated their voices while conversing.


    "Immortals from the imperial government, Numinous Treasure Mountain, Divine Firmament Chapter, and Primordial Chaos Sect are watching the abode¡¯s entrance. The only Essence Soul immortal of Scenic Mountain Sect is also watching closely," Bai Junyue said with a smirk. "After all, once rare items like Numinous treasures or transcendent-grade Dharma treasures come out in bulk, they will probably want to escort the holders of those treasures away immediately. They would want to prevent powerful fiendish demons from snatching the treasures away."


    With immortals escorting them off, Golden Core realm great demons had no way of chasing after them.


    ******


    More than an hour later, Hong Lingtong struck a spot on the ground with his wooden stave. Six tokens flew out from his body and struck six other spots at the same time.


    "Boom!" The array formation quivered.


    The Golden Core Cauldron also let out a faint hum.


    "It''s done. The Golden Core Cauldron''s seals have been removed. You can take it away," said Hong Lingtong.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. He waved his hand, shooting out sword beams. As one sword beam after another wrapped around the Golden Core Cauldron, it was directly lifted up. Following that, Qin Yun opened a Cosmic Bag, its mouth expanding to a huge size. While in the periphery of the immortal abode, he had found some treasures that were left behind. Many of them were left behind by Connate Golden Core realm seniors. Among them, Qin Yun discovered a huge Cosmic Bag that could store about a hundred feet worth of items.


    The Golden Core Cauldron was only about ten feet tall so it was easily put away.


    Following that, he fastened the Cosmic Bag and tied it around his waist.


    Yi Xiao, Yi Fenggu, and Hong Lingtong could not help but stare at the Cosmic Bag by Qin Yun''s waist. In it was the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron!


    "Rumble!" When Qin Yun stored the Golden Core Cauldron, a door opened from afar.


    "A door has opened outside." Everyone looked into the distance. Through the soaring Earth fire, they could vaguely see the opened door.


    "Ji Lie and the rest have not left." Yi Xiao immediately said, "Qin Yun, you have to be wary of them."


    "Previously, Ji Lie wanted to take action against Yi Xiao, so it''s very likely he will attack you," Yi Fenggu warned him. "There''s also Bai Junyue. For a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, she might join forces with Ji Lie."


    "Let''s go out first," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    He had been able to fend off Ji Lie without the Golden Core Outer Pill.


    Now, with the Golden Core Outer Pill, Ji Lie would probably be scampering off for his life if they fought head on! Even if everyone present joined forces, they would not even be able to withstand his Cyclic Sword Flash at all. Furthermore, he now had an additional second-grade flying sword, Heavy Sand Sword. Once used, its might would be no different from his Intrinsic Flying Sword. In addition, his soul was being nourished by the Golden Core Outer Pill and was constantly becoming stronger.


    "Phew." Qin Yun cast the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier which protected the four of them before they rapidly headed out.


    Ji Lie stared intently at Qin Yun and company.


    Just as Qin Yun and company landed, huge flags with a sanguine aura flew out when Ji Lie beckoned his hand. A total of twelve large flags floated around them, with each one of them having a Godfiend portrait. Ji Lie stared at Qin Yun and bellowed, "Qin Yun, this is the Capital Heaven Divine Wraith flags that His Majesty bestowed upon me. If you hand over the Golden Core Cauldron now, you can still live. If you refuse, don''t blame me for being heartless."


    "He''s really taking action." Hong Lingtong''s expression changed slightly.


    "Capital Heaven Divine Wraith flags?" Yi Xiao turned worried as well. She immediately sent Qin Yun a voice transmission. "This is a treasure of the Godfiend lineage. It expends lifeblood and can produce manifestations of twelve celestial Godfiends."


    However, Qin Yun showed no fear.


    "Fairy Bai!" Ji Lie spoke out. "Since your Bai family has sent you here, it''s impossible that they only gave you the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle. Please provide as much assistance as you can. Now¡¯s the time to fight it out. There''s no need to hold back. When the time comes, we will split the profits from the Golden Core Cauldron evenly. How about that?"


    Bai Junyue shot a glance at Ji Lie and said nonchalantly, "Ji Lie, if you want to take action, go ahead. Don''t drag me into this."


    Ji Lie was immediately taken aback.


    What?


    "You are not fighting for a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure?" Ji Lie asked anxiously.


    "I know I''ll be helpless against Qin Yun''s flying sword arts," said Bai Junyue. "If you want to fight for it, go ahead. Why must you drag me into this? Or is it that you lack the confidence to deal with Qin Yun with only the twelve Godfiend manifestations?"


    Ji Lie''s expression turned ugly.


    Qin Yun looked at Bai Junyue. "Thank you, Fairy Bai."


    Bai Junyue looked at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao as she suddenly curved her lips up. It was a rare smile.


    "She smiled. Sis, you, you actually smiled?" Bai Junyu was astonished.


    With a faint smile, Bai Junyue looked at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. "The two of you make a perfect match. It truly makes me envious."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were slightly taken aback.


    "Fairy Bai, what are you¡­" Ji Lie turned anxious.


    "Qin Yun, if you are selling this Golden Core Cauldron, please sell it to my Numinous Treasure Mountain," said Bai Junyue with a smile. "The imperial government might have deep pockets, but it follows the Godfiend lineage in the end. The Daoist treasures they have stored are definitely inferior to those of my Numinous Treasure Mountain. Sister, let''s go."


    As she spoke, Bai Junyue led her sister towards the door that had just opened.


    "Sister, did you smile?" Bai Junyu was still asking. As she asked, she walked out the door.


    "Let''s quickly follow," Eighth Zhu tugged at Lunatic Zhu and quickly followed.


    Qin Yun looked at Ji Lie. "Do you still want to continue your attack?"


    Ji Lie looked at the twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith flags that were floating around Qin Yun. After some hesitation, he withdrew one flag after another and walked out directly with his tail between his legs. "Let''s go."

 161 Wheres Yi Xiao?

    Chapter 161: Where''s Yi Xiao?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sixteenth Prince followed closely behind and immediately sent a voice transmission, "We are leaving just like that? Elder Lie, are we really not fighting for it?"


    "Qin Yun can withstand the Earth fire, making his defense stronger than that bitch Bai Junyue''s Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle! If I were to rely on the Capital Heaven Divine Wraith flags alone, I do not have any confidence in my ability to break through his flying sword arts. Besides, every time the twelve Godfiends are manifested, I use a massive amount of lifeblood. Since I lack the confidence, I''ll let this pass. Let''s quickly search for the Numinous treasure! That bitch Bai Junyue has gone all limp seeing a handsome young lad and doesn''t even want to fight for it. She''s truly a crazy bitch." Ji Lie clenched his teeth in anger.


    If Bai Junyue had joined forces with him, he believed that they would have had a good chance.


    "Since it''s gone, let it be. Let''s aim for the Numinous treasure now! The Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet, is the most important treasure in this entire immortal abode," said Ji Lie with a voice transmission.


    "Yes." Sixteenth Prince followed closely behind.


    Regardless of Ji Lie¡¯s sound logic, the both of them appeared somewhat pathetic as they retreated.


    "They left just like that. It gave me a fright when he took out the Capital Heaven Divine Wraith flags," said Yi Fenggu with a laugh.


    "Let''s leave quickly too," said Qin Yun immediately. "The next thing to appear might very well be the Numinous treasure."


    "Let''s go."


    The four hurriedly headed for the door.


    All the rest of the treasures in the immortal abode added together would be greatly inferior to the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet. Numinous treasures could determine the amount of light an entire sacred land or race would receive from providence! However, there were many obstacles in refining and controlling powerful Numinous treasures. The requirements for Dharmic powers and realm were extremely high.


    Back when Immortal Scenic Yang died, no one in the entire Scenic Mountain Sect¡¯s sacred land could wield the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet.


    And although the Scenic Mountain Sect held the six tokens, they did not bother to retrieve the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet as there was no suitable wielder. As for the other treasures? Back then, the Scenic Mountain Sect was flush with success and wielded immense power. The Scenic Mountain Sect did not think too much of the few reserves that Immortal Scenic Yang had amassed. They only treated it as a backup. Later on, the Scenic Mountain Sect was overrun, and this backup was needed to play its role.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun and company walked out and saw a blue sky peppered with white clouds. A yard filled with blooming flowers was right in front of them. There were also stone-paved paths in the yard.


    The Bai sisters, the Zhu brothers, Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince, together with Fang Yu, were already walking on the stone pavement and observing their surroundings carefully.


    When he saw Qin Yun and company following them, Ji Lie grunted coldly but said nothing.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin," shouted Eighth Zhu rather warmly.


    Bai Junyu also looked curiously at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. She had always seen her sister being such a cold person, yet even she seemed to warm up to the young couple.


    Qin Yun and company walked along a stone-paved road and looked around.


    Just as the group was proceeding carefully through the yard¡ª


    "Whew!"


    A golden beam of light flashed in midair before flying a distance away. And it seemed to hide a clear and crisp laughter.


    Qin Yun had great eyesight and could tell at a glance that there was a golden token in the golden beam of light. Furthermore, there were golden flames swirling around it. Just watching from afar left one stifled! It was a different feeling from that of the Numinous treasure Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, that was used to monitor the world and ensure the security of the human race. The Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet was a terrifying Numinous treasure that was used to kill enemies!


    "It''s the Numinous treasure."


    "Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet!"


    Instantly, everyone present was excited.


    How could they not be?


    Even most Connate Golden Core cultivators had no right to use a first-grade Dharma treasure! Yet above first-grade Dharma treasured were the transcendent grade, and above that still was the Numinous-grade.


    "Chase!"


    "Quickly chase after it."


    The Bai sisters, Ji Lie and Fang Yu, as well as Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong gave chase immediately!


    As for the rest, they tried their best to follow behind at first, but their speeds were clearly much slower. Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu, Yi Fenggu and Yi Xiao, and the Sixteenth Prince were in no hurry to chase after them.


    "The transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron had the danger of the Earth fire. To obtain the more valuable Numinous treasure, the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet, there will probably be even greater danger." Eighth Zhu shook his head. "Even if we lucked out and got our hands on it, Ji Lie and Fairy Bai would likely attack and snatch it from us. We aren''t Qin Yun. We won''t be able to fight them."


    "Yea," Lunatic Zhu nodded. "Let''s not vie for it."


    "Yi Xiao, we should be wary. If we find a way out, we should leave the immortal abode," said Yi Fenggu. "What''s left are things we have no chance of vying for."


    Yi Xiao nodded, "Alright, Second Uncle."


    Sixteenth Prince also stayed behind and did not follow. Vying for a Numinous treasure was an act of great danger. He did not dare be involved in it. Ji Lie with Fang Yu was enough. If he joined in, he would only make things worse.


    The five continued their leisurely pace as they walked carefully within the yard.


    "Oh?"


    Yi Fenggu saw a boulder not far away. With a frown, he could not help but head for it due to his understanding of array formations.


    Eighth Zhu, Lunatic Zhu, Sixteenth Prince, and company looked over curiously.


    "That boulder." Eighth Zhu had his doubts as he found something amiss.


    "Second Uncle," Yi Xiao walked over. "What is it?"


    Yi Fenggu seemed to be deep in thought as he pointed his finger, sending three beams out.


    But at that moment, Eighth Zhu suddenly shouted, "Don''t move!"


    Puah Puah Puah!


    The three beams struck the patterns on the boulder''s surface.


    "Boom!" A white and blurry blast enveloped the area. Forces skimmed past Yi Fenggu, who had been standing beside the boulder. With a drastic change in expression, he instantly triggered his life-preservation artifact. Layers of ice-blue ripples appeared around him but, with a grinding sound, the impact of the blast tore through the ripples directly. Yi Fenggu frantically tried to charge backward.


    But the immense blast was too powerful. He seemed to be stuck in a vortex with no way of escaping.


    In just a few seconds, the ripples that protected his body were worn away. Under the fury of the white blurry blast, his body was instantly ground to dust.


    "Second Uncle!" Yi Xiao also activated her life-preserving treasure. Similarly, it was bestowed by Patriarch Yi. Ice-blue ripples began to emanate around her. Yi Fenggu had been standing where the strength of the array formation was at its most potent. Yi Xiao was in a slightly better position but the blast continued bearing down on her, mercilessly eating away at the ice-blue ripples that surrounded her.


    Everything around her was a blur. As the blast turned more tempestuous, Yi Xiao could only see thirty feet around her, and nothing else.


    "I need to get out." Yi Xiao charged backward.


    But the immense blast was like a gigantic tidal wave. It engulfed her and dragged her into the vortex at the middle of the blast.


    The ice-blue ripples over her body were constantly being worn away.


    "Second Uncle is dead. Am I going to die too?" At that moment, Yi Xiao looked in a particular direction. It was in the direction where Qin Yun had headed in pursuit of the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet.


    "Qin Yun¡­ I really do not want to die. Really."


    Two streams of tears rolled down Yi Xiao''s face.


    At that moment, she was only thinking of Qin Yun!


    She had long given up on her father. Her mother had abandoned her before her first memory. Only Qin Yun held a place in her heart! He was the most important person in her life.


    "Qin Yun, don''t forget me." Yi Xiao saw the ice-blue ripples being rapidly thinned by the blast and knew that death was approaching.


    ¡­


    Yi Fenggu had triggered an array formation, causing it to send out a blast. With Yi Fenggu dead, Yi Xiao had been pulled into the depths of the array formation.


    Meanwhile, beyond the swath of white.


    "Dodge!" Eighth Zhu was the fastest to react as he flew backward. Sixteenth Prince was still dozens of feet away and so was safe when the blurry white blast came surging.


    Lunatic Zhu was slightly slower and was caught up in the blast.


    Chi! Chi! Chi!


    Lunatic Zhu frantically retreated while furiously striking his palms forward. Boom! A mighty aura struck the blurry white blast.


    But the moment he touched it, Lunatic Zhu''s palms were immediately obliterated.


    "Ah!"


    Lunatic Zhu barely retreated but when he looked at his arms, both his palms were already gone.


    "Grow! Grow! Grow!" From his wrist, flesh and bone began to rapidly grow at a discernible rate.


    "It will probably take about an hour to fully grow them back," Lunatic Zhu muttered.


    "What array formation is this? Why is it so ruthless? It didn''t show a hint of mercy." Eighth Zhu stood beside Lunatic Zhu with an ugly expression.


    "Miss Yi Xiao." Sixteenth Prince lashed out with his whip, sending it straight into the blurry white blast. However, the whip was unable to travel within the blast. It flailed around as though it was trapped in a huge vortex while the energy constantly disintegrated it.


    Sixteenth Prince retracted his whip immediately but half the whip was already gone.


    "Even a fifth-grade Dharma treasure can''t withstand it?" Sixteenth Prince was astounded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun, Hong Lingtong, and company pursued the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet but it had transformed into a golden beam of light. It flew very fast and, in a blink of an eye, it had suddenly vanished.


    Just as the group started their search anew, they sensed a violent fluctuation coming from behind accompanied by a rumbling boom.


    "What happened?" Qin Yun was alarmed. He took a glance at Ji Lie who wasn''t far away from him. With Ji Lie here, it was unlikely anyone would attack Yi Xiao and company.


    "Let''s go back and take a look quickly." Qin Yun could not feel at ease as he immediately rushed back with Hong Lingtong.


    "Why is there an array formation fluctuation? Could there be a treasure over there?" Ji Lie also rushed back.


    The Bai sisters did the same.


    Everyone rushed back.


    Just as he arrived, Qin Yun saw the massive white blurry array formation. There was a swath of blurry white forces surging within the array formation and one could barely see twenty to thirty feet in with one''s naked eyes. Standing by the side, Lunatic Zhu''s hands were amputated and slowly growing back. Sixteenth Prince held a broken whip while in a daze. Eighth Zhu also wore a somewhat ugly expression.


    "Where''s Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun could not help but turn anxious as he asked immediately.


    Sixteenth Prince, who was still in a daze, could only point towards the white misty array formation.

 162 Never Abandoning you in Life and in Death

    Chapter 162: Never Abandoning you in Life and in Death


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was instantly confounded by the raging white array formation.


    "Yi Xiao, Yi Xiao¡­ She''s¡­"


    Qin Yun looked at the array formation in disbelief. He then turned to Sixteenth Prince, Eighth Zhu, and Lunatic Zhu.


    "Yi Fenggu triggered an array formation, ensnaring both him and Yi Xiao. If not for us being a little further away, we would have been caught in it as well," explained Eighth Zhu. "This array formation is extremely powerful. The moment my brother touched it with his palms, they were pulverized. Even His Highness''s fifth-grade Dharma treasure was cut in half when he inserted it in the array¡¯s blast."


    "Go."


    Qin Yun instantly released a flying sword, the second-grade Heavy Sand Sword.


    The moment the Heavy Sand Sword entered the array formation, the endless whiteness attacked. The Heavy Sand Sword immediately went into Cyclic Sword Flash, forming a spherical barrier that allowed it to barely withstand the white force.


    Phew.


    The Heavy Sand Sword flew deeper into the array formation.


    "I can''t see anything." Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    He could only barely see twenty to thirty feet into the array formation with his naked eyes. And he could not produce his psyche perception through the Heavy Sand Sword. Although the Heavy Sand Sword was flying in it, it was flying blind.


    "Return." Qin Yun issued the command with his mind, calling the Heavy Sand Sword back.


    "Phew." The flying sword returned into his sleeve.


    Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu looked at Qin Yun with astonishment. Lunatic Zhu could not help but murmur, "What an impressive flying sword. It managed to withstand the array formation."


    "Senior Ji Lie," Qin Yun looked at Ji Lie. "Please help save Yi Xiao."


    "You are begging for my help?" Ji Lie was surprised before he broke into laughter.


    "Yes, I''m begging you. Senior Ji Lie, please save Yi Xiao." Qin Yun looked at the bald elder.


    "Elder Lie, Elder Lie. Please help save Miss Yi Xiao," Sixteenth Prince immediately joined in.


    "If you want me to save her, it will be easy. But when I successfully save her, give me the transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldon." Ji Lie stared at Qin Yun. Beside them, Eighth Zhu, Lunatic Zhu, Bai Junyue, Bai Junyu, and Fang Yu were muttering secretly.


    "What a greedy person. To make such a demanding request when others are begging him to save someone. And all that for a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure," Bai Junyu whispered to her sister, Bai Junyue.


    Bai Junyue attempted to use her stars, but even they failed to penetrate the endless white forces.


    "Brother Qin Yun, the Golden Core Cauldron is all yours," Hong Lingtong said with a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun looked at Ji Lie. "If you successfully save her, half the treasures I receive in exchange for the Golden Core Cauldron will be yours. As for the other half¡­ it doesn''t belong to me but to another cultivation expert."


    "Oh? So you do have a faction backing you." Ji Lie nodded. "Alright, half it is then! Everyone here has heard it. The property of my Ji royal family is not something anyone can covet."


    "Save Yi Xiao and half the Golden Core Cauldron is yours," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright."


    Ji Lie immediately enlarged his arm that was covered with a black metallic layer. It was the first-grade Dharma treasure, Fiend Annihilation Hand.


    Phew.


    The gigantic arm directly but slowly extended into the array formation. When it touched the endless white forces, Ji Lie¡¯s expression changed slightly. However, his arm had the Fiend Annihilation Hand protecting it, so he was able to withstand the barrage.


    "Oh?" As his arm, now dozens of feet long, extended further into the array formation, his expression changed. He could sense his arm being aggressively inundated by the array formation.


    "Elder Lie, why don''t you use both arms?" asked Sixteenth Prince immediately.


    "The array formation is too powerful. If I used two arms, even I would be pulled in." Ji Lie''s face was flushed red as he tried his best to search using his gigantic arm. But no matter how he swept it around, he did not scoop up any living being. There were some trees and rocks, but they had long turned to dust within the array formation.


    Qin Yun stared at Ji Lie.


    Phew.


    Ji Lie''s expression was extremely ugly as his arm rapidly contracted and withdrew from the array. He shook his head and said, "I can''t find her. Either she''s dead or she has been pulled even further into the array formation. I can''t reach her."


    "She''s still alive." Qin Yun flipped his hand to reveal the Inspect Heavenly Token. "Her messaging mark hasn''t dissipated. However, Yi Fenggu''s messaging mark is gone."


    "She''s still alive?" The eyes of Eighth Zhu and company lit up.


    "Yi Fenggu is dead and Yi Xiao won''t be able to last much longer," said Qin Yun softly.


    Qin Yun walked toward Hong Lingtong.


    Phew.


    He cast an Isolation Spell, preventing the others from seeing him or Hong Lingtong.


    "Brother Hong," Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong and handed him a Cosmic Bag. "All these treasures here, including the Golden Core Cauldron, are yours. If I don¡¯t come out alive, please remember to take care of my Qin family. I am no longer able to live up to my filial obligations."


    "Qin Yun, don''t be foolish. This array formation is way too ruthless. It shows no mercy at all. It''s completely different from all the other array formations in the immortal abode," said Hong Lingtong. "It''s best for us to exit this area and bring powerful cultivators in."


    "Bring others? Who?" Qin Yun shook his head. "How many Connate Golden Core realm cultivators will be willing to risk their lives? Furthermore, there are very few Connate Golden Core realm cultivators that are stronger than me in this world. And those are people who preside over something, be it a sect or family clan. Even if I can find awesomely powerful cultivators to help, the time it would take to rush here would probably be half a day at the least! Yi Xiao can''t wait any longer!"


    "Take this." Qin Yun passed the Cosmic Bag over.


    "I really can''t accept it," Hong Lingtong said anxiously. "If I were to take the transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron, I won''t be able to conceal the treasure halo. It will end up harming me instead."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    "These three Golden Core Outer Pills, three Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills, two second-grade Dharma treasures are yours. These are the most important treasures I have other than the Golden Core Cauldron," said Qin Yun. "I might come out alive. So just hold on to them. I believe you should be able to conceal the treasure halo of these treasures. As for the Golden Core Cauldron, I won''t be able to give it to you anymore."


    Hong Lingtong accepted the items and looked at Qin Yun in the eye. "Brother Qin Yun, don''t worry. I, Hong Lingtong, swear to the heavens that as long as I''m alive, I''ll protect the Qin family. From this day forth, I''ll treat your parents as my own."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "However, Brother Qin Yun, is there a need for this? You have a promising life ahead of you¡­" Hong Lingtong could not help but say. It was difficult to find a confidant on the path of cultivation. After spending more than a year together, he truly felt that Qin Yun was someone he wanted as his closest confidant.


    "She will walk with me on this path of cultivation," said Qin Yun. He retrieved the gigantic Golden Core Cauldron from his Cosmic Bag. He held the massive cauldron in one hand and undid the Isolation Spell.


    Ji Lie and company were still puzzling over what Qin Yun was talking to Hong Lingtong about. He had even deliberately prevented others from probing.


    "Oh?" The Bai sisters, Ji Lie, Sixteenth Prince, and company were surprised when they saw Qin Yun reappear holding the Golden Core Cauldron with one hand.


    Qin Yun walked straight towards the array formation.


    At the same time, he enveloped himself in the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. With one hand holding onto the cauldron, he headed in.


    "If I do not come out in an hour, I''ll probably never come out again," said Qin Yun loudly. "Everyone, please tell everyone you see about this after you exit the abode! Tell them that the Golden Core Cauldron has entered the immortal abode array formation with me, Qin Yun. To those who want the Golden Core Cauldron, please enter the array! If you can save me and Yi Xiao, I''ll hand over the Golden Core Cauldron with both hands. If I die, then you¡¯ll have to find the Golden Core Cauldron on your own."


    "Haha, I, Qin Yun, will be entering with the Golden Core Cauldron. It''s truly a selfish act, but it''s for my survival. So please forgive me."


    As Qin Yun spoke loudly, he continued to walk into the array formation.


    Qin Yun looked at the forces of vast whiteness. Every smile and action of Yi Xiao''s emerged in his mind. The way she ate mooncakes, their kiss under the moon while they hovered over the river, and their promise to be together to the very end.


    "I only wish to hold your hand and grow old with you, never abandoning you in life and in death."


    "Never abandoning you in life and in death."


    The duo''s promise was still ringing in his ears.


    "Never abandoning you in life and in death. Yi Xiao, wait for me. You have to wait for me." Qin Yun stepped into the turbulent swath of whiteness.


    With the Cyclic Sword Flash protecting him, he held the Golden Core Cauldron with one hand and walked into the array formation where the white forces raged.


    Under the watchful eyes of everyone, he walked in without turning his head back. This scene left many people silent.


    "Qin Yun." After a long while, Sixteenth Prince mumbled to himself. "I once disdained you. I once wanted to snatch Yi Xiao away from you. But now, I know that I''m inferior to you. It''s impossible for me to risk my life for Yi Xiao."


    "Qin Yun, come out. You have to come out," Hong Lingtong said secretly as he watched.


    Bai Junyue was watching solemnly, her face covered with tears. All she could think of was the scene of her brother''s final departure. That turned into an eternal farewell.


    ¡­


    Time passed.


    An hour passed without Qin Yun coming out.


    Two hours passed, and still there was nothing.


    "Let''s go." Ji Lie said with a downcast voice.


    Sixteenth Prince looked at the white array formation and whispered, "I wish for the both of you to come out alive and be together."


    "He isn''t dead. He isn''t dead." Hong Lingtong held his transmission treasure. "His messaging mark has not dissipated."


    "If he hasn''t come out in two hours, he''s probably not coming out." Fang Yu shook his head and sighed. "What a pity."


    Bai Junyue watched quietly.


    "Sister, let''s go. Let''s continue searching for the Numinous treasure. Ji Lie and the rest are leaving," urged Bai Junyu.


    "Alright." Bai Junyue did not say anything else as she turned to leave.


    "Eighth Brother," Lunatic Zhu looked at the array formation in a dazed and whispered. "Is Qin Yun mad? Does he not care for his life?"


    "The joy of being together with a loved one is delighting, but the parting is bitter, and yet there are even more hopelessly lovelorn people." Eighth Zhu recited softly. "Brother, let''s go."


    "Yea." Lunatic Zhu nodded.


    The two left together.


    ¡­


    Three days later.


    Ji Lie and company exited the immortal abode. Eighth Zhu managed to obtain the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet, by pure luck and rushed out of the immortal abode immediately after. However, they came out bearing bad news. Three days ago, Qin Yun had brought the Golden Core Cauldron into the array formation to save Yi Xiao and never came back out.

 163 Rescuers Unavailable

    Chapter 163: Rescuers Unavailable


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside Scenic Yang Immortal Abode''s Rosy Dawn Door, the Bai sisters, the Zhu brothers, and company were present.


    "Hahaha, it appears the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet and my Primordial Chaos Sect are fated." A fat elder chuckled. Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu stood obediently beside him.


    "Old Pig, you sent two Connate True Core realm juniors in and managed to obtain a Numinous treasure? How did you chance upon such luck?" Another middle-aged Daoist could not help but say.


    "You guys from Numinous Treasure Mountain are just being envious and jealous!" The fat elder shouted immediately.


    "Ancestral Master Fu."


    Ji Lie stood beside a silver-haired elder together with Sixteenth Prince.


    The silver-haired elder could not help but comment, "Ji Lie, you should be the strongest one who entered. You didn''t obtain the Numinous treasure, the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, or even a first-grade Dharma treasure?"


    Ji Lie also felt embarrassed but he could only nod helplessly. "Yes, I didn''t obtain any of those."


    There were a total of three first-grade Dharma treasures.


    Deacon Yuan, Bai Junyue, and Yi Xiao had each obtained one.


    Qin Yun had taken the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure into the array formation.


    As for the Numinous treasure? Eighth Zhu lucked out and obtained it!


    "I got a few second-grade Dharma treasures," said Ji Lie under his breath.


    "Forget it." The silver-haired elder waved his hand.


    There was a middle-aged man with knitted brows. He was none other than Patriarch Yi. He too had come.


    Bai Junyue stepped forward and said, "Senior Yi, Qin Yun, and Yi Xiao are currently inside an array formation. The Golden Core Cauldron and the first grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet are inside the array formation with them. With Qin Yun''s strength, he will probably be able to stay in it even longer, considering he has lasted three days in it."


    "Alright." Patriarch Yi looked at Bai Junyue and smiled with a nod. "Miss Junyue, I know that they should be able to last for a period of time. But all of you have also mentioned that there will only be a chance of saving the two of them unless one''s strength has reached the Paramount realm."


    Ji Lie, who wasn''t far off, immediately added, "Yes. I used my divine power, Power Arms, to probe the array before. Its interior is extremely redoubtable. If I were to step in, I would be pulled in and there will be no way of me coming out! If someone of equivalent strength as mine enters, the chance of exiting it is less than ten percent. It has to be a Connate Golden Core expert at the Paramount realm to have any chance of saving the two of them. Of course, that is only to have a chance. We do not know how powerful the array formation is either."


    Patriarch Yi nodded slightly as his brows exuded vexation.


    "That darn Scenic Yang, the array formations he left behind shouldn''t be so ruthless." The fat elder could not help but say. "Even when they obtained the Golden Core Cauldron and the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet, they did not suffer such dangers. There can''t be a treasure more valuable than the Numinous treasure inside this immortal abode."


    "Unless that array formation was not set by that darn Scenic Yang," remarked the middle-aged Daoist.


    "Oh? Third Elder Bai, what do you mean?" asked the fat elder immediately.


    "Don''t forget that over the past three millennia, there was an Elder Sword that barged his way into the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode forcibly," reminded the middle-aged Daoist. "Elder Sword had long attained the Dao by grasping Sword Dao. Furthermore, he had once slain a fiendcelestial! His powers are unfathomable. If not for sword immortal lineages lacking the ability to become immortals, he would probably not be inferior to us at present."


    "Elder Sword was surly. Back when he entered the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, he was close to his death. It''s also quite normal for him to set up a powerful array formation before he died in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode," elaborated the middle-aged Daoist.


    "That''s really quite possible."


    "Elder Sword has quite a vicious nature."


    "Back then, in order to search for all sorts of manuals to create a Dharmic formulation to continue on the sword immortal lineage, he had offended many sects."


    "His skills in array formations were also famously powerful! His Intrinsic Flying Sword was a sword array itself."


    Everyone added.


    Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was very unique. It could be used as a flying sword and could also be disassembled to form a sword array! Elder Sword had used the sword array to trap a fiendcelestial, and slew it at the Connate Golden Core realm! Elder Sword¡­ was also greatly idolized by junior sword immortals.


    Unfortunately, he ultimately died. Clearly, he was unsuccessful at making the final step eventually, failing to condense a Sword Immortal Essence Soul.


    "If he were to leave behind an array formation, that would be powerful. Even someone in the Paramount realm could perish in there if they enter." The immortals thought to themselves.


    "This Qin Yun is only twenty-three years old. He was able to withstand the Earth fire solely with his flying sword arts. What a pity."


    "Old Fellow Yi, there''s really nothing to be faulted for the way that Qin Yun treats your Yi family''s Yi Xiao."


    Everyone added.


    Patriarch Yi did not say a word.


    Yi Fenggu was dead! His heart ached for him. As for Yi Xiao, she was a junior he thought highly of, but she was trapped in the array formation. Patriarch Yi was not in a good mood. After all, it was very difficult for a family clan to produce a powerful junior. Now, the Yi family only had one Connate Golden Core cultivator.


    "Let''s go." The fat elder led Eighth Zhu and Lunatic Zhu away first.


    "Time to go." The middle-aged Daoist led the Bai sisters away.


    "Let''s leave." The silver-haired elder departed with Ji Lie and Sixteenth Prince. As they were flying off, Sixteenth Prince turned to look at the immortal abode that was shrouded by clouds. He secretly sighed.


    As for Hong Lingtong and Fang Yu, they walked to the Scenic Mountain Sect disciples by the side.


    "We would like to trade with the Scenic Mountain Sect," said Hong Lingtong and Fang Yu.


    "Mortal children."


    Patriarch Yi shook his head gently and turned to leave. As he walked, he vanished.


    ¡­


    The news of Qin Yun and Yi Xiao being trapped within the immortal abode with the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet quickly proliferated. Nearly all the top factions received news of it very quickly.


    Scenic Mountain Sect.


    They were reveling in joy for they had long brought back the manuals.


    "Oh? Qin Yun entered the array formation to save Yi Xiao and failed to come out?" When Palatial Lord Essence Charm received the news, he could not help but feel mixed emotions. He could still remember clearly.


    Two years ago.


    He had presided over Grand Dominance. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were like an immortal couple when they greeted him.


    "What a pity." Palatial Lord Essence Charm shook his head.


    "Ji Lie has also mentioned. Those of similar strength to his would have less than ten percent chance of coming out if there were to go in. Only those at the Paramount realm has a chance but even so, there is a possibility of perishing," said Sect Master Gong. "Paramount realm experts are only a handful in the world. How could they take that risk?"


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm sighed. "It''s truly a pity. I hope that Qin Yun will be able to come out alive. It is rare for a powerful cultivator of our Jiang Prefecture like him to be produced. If he were to continue his growth for a few more decades, the situation in our Jiang Prefecture would also change because of him."


    ¡­


    "Only people at the Paramount realm has a chance of saving them?"


    "What a pity with regards to this pair of youngsters."


    After the various factions learned of the news, all of them shook their heads.


    There were nineteen prefectures in the world. In each prefecture, only one or two would have reached the intent domain stage at the Connate Golden Core realm! The imperial family or the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands might have slightly more, such as the Scenic Mountain Sect''s Sect Master Gong, or the royal family''s Ji Lie. Those at that stage were already few in number. Only the imperial family and Numinous Treasure Mountain had deep enough roots to be able to send one each to take a risk.


    As for the Paramount realm?


    There was only a handful in the world! Even the imperial government and Numinous Treasure Mountain had to give them special treatment. It was impossible they would send someone at the Paramount realm to risk their lives. Neither did they have the right to request them to risk their lives. It would happen only if they wished to do it of their own accord.


    ¡­


    Deep in the southern mountains, Magistress Mountain was the absolute hegemon.


    It was the only top sect that remained of the magus lineage! There was a Magistress presiding over it, and the might the Magistress Mountain had made it one of the best top cultivation sects.


    And the cultivation techniques that Magistress Mountain possessed were different from the Daoist or Buddhist sects. They were odder and more vicious. They were ruthless both to enemies and themselves.


    At that moment in a small wooden hut''s yard on Magistress Mountain.


    "Your Highness," A red-dressed woman said respectfully. "In the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, Qin Yun entered an array formation alone with the Golden Core Cauldron and has not returned to date! The Magistress has also mentioned that the array formation is too dangerous. There is no way Magistress Mountain can provide any assistance."


    "No way to provide help?" Chen Shuang was dressed in red. She sat there and nodded gently. "I understand. I heard that only Golden Core experts at the Paramount realm would stand a chance."


    "Then, I shall take my leave." The red-dressed woman retreated respectfully.


    Chen Shuang sat there silently.


    "Brother Yun¡­ I came out of Magus Matriarch Cave alive. Even the Magistress said that I''m talented but why, why were you willing to give up your life for Yi Xiao?" Chen Shuang had tears brimming in her eyes. She stood up, retrieved a zither from the hut, and walked silently to a cliff not far from the wooden hut. Sitting there, she began playing the zither.


    The zither''s tunes were pleasant as though they were depicting her pining.


    She recalled how her young Brother Yun had taught her the way of the sword! Her elder brother, Xie Lei watched by the side with a smile.


    She also remembered that her Brother Yun had left alone at fifteen to roam the world. She had sent him off with a tune from her zither. By the time her Brother Yun was gone, her tears had stained her clothes.


    She remembered how they hugged each other after not meeting each other for years back in the Swallow Phoenix Brothel.


    She remembered how when fiendish demons attacked during the Courtesan Belle selection, Qin Yun had transformed into a stream of light to slay the fiendish demons in her panicked horror.


    The zither''s tunes continued.


    Unknowingly, Chen Shuang''s face was covered with tears as she looked towards the Jiang Prefecture in the north. "Brother Yun, you must come out alive¡­"

 164 Reunion

    Chapter 164: Reunion


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In order to save Yi Xiao, Qin Yun had entered the array formation without returning.


    There were people who sighed, there were others who were sad. There were also others who scoffed at it, thinking that Qin Yun was foolish to seek death for a woman, curtailing the bright future he had. There were even others who celebrated happily about his predicament.


    For example, the Zhongli family''s Princess Martial Maple.


    "Princess, Yi Caishi is feeling sad for his daughter," a maidservant reported respectfully.


    Princess Martial Maple, who was dressed in a tight purple dress, was seated and eating grapes. She said with a delightful smile, "There''s no need to care about Caishi. If he''s sad, let him be. She''s his daughter after all."


    "This is the happiest day over the past half year." Princess Martial Maple was in high spirits as she ate her grapes. She said with a smile, "That punk Qin Yun sure was arrogant. I was still thinking of means to deal with him, but he ended up seeking death himself. Haha, isn''t he trying to constantly protect that Yi Xiao? Now, for her, he entered an array formation. That woman is nothing but a jinx!"


    "I believe in time, both he and Yi Xiao will die in there."


    Princess Martial Maple smirked. "I definitely have to celebrate when the day comes."


    The maidservant said immediately, "I believe the day will come very soon."


    ******


    The turmoil outside the array formation had no influence on Qin Yun and Yi Xiao in the array formation.


    Three days ago.


    With the Heavy Sand Sword producing Cyclic Sword Flash to protect him, Qin Yun had held the Golden Core Cauldron in one hand and entered the array formation that was filled with vast white forces.


    "Where''s Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun rapidly proceeded forward and through his sword intent domain, he sensed the surrounding eighty feet to search for Yi Xiao.


    "Phew."


    He put away the Golden Core Cauldron once again.


    He had taken out the Golden Core Cauldron to firstly, protect Hong Lingtong, letting everyone know that he had brought in his most valuable treasure into the array formation. Secondly, if he were trapped in the array formation, the Golden Core Cauldron might attract more powerful experts to save the two of them.


    "Yi Xiao!" Qin Yun shouted. His voice was powered by the Golden Core Dharmic powers, but even so, it could barely go as far as a hundred feet.


    "Yi Xiao, Yi Xiao!"


    Qin Yun shouted as he proceeded forward.


    The surging white forces constantly lacerated the Cyclic Sword Flash. In the periphery, Qin Yun was able to hold out but as he proceeded forward, he felt that the white forces around him were turning more intense. They were like gigantic vortex swirls that tugged at him. He found it harder and harder to resist.


    Qin Yun tried his best to avoid the most tempestuous spots as he walked inside the array formation in constant search.


    "Yi Xiao! Yi Xiao!" Qin Yun shouted again and again. He also attempted to contact her through the Inspect Heavenly Token but to no avail.


    "Boom!" As the swirling white forces changed, Qin Yun was pulled in by an undetected current.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately produced Cyclic Sword Flash to protect his body. As for the Heavy Sand Sword, it cast the Misty Rain Sword Art''s Lightning Tide. Boom! Heavy Sand Sword extended to about ten feet long as it obstreperously struck into the blob of white forces. After breaking through the forces, Qin Yun immediately extricated himself from the tugging force, preventing himself from being pulled in further.


    "It''s too dangerous. If I''m not careful, I''ll be pulled in and it would become more dangerous." Qin Yun thought to himself. "With my present strength, I''m afraid I won''t be able to get out once I''m inside."


    "Could it be that Yi Xiao has been pulled into the deepest depths?"


    "No, she might still be in the periphery."


    Qin Yun continued searching for her.


    Although the array formation was tempestuous with constant undetectable streams, through the Heavy Sand Sword and his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun managed to proceed through the array formation''s periphery. In a blink of an eye, he had ventured a range of a thousand feet.


    "Nothing. I can''t find her. I''ve already circled it once." Qin Yun was alarmed as he looked at the dense white forces in front of him. "Has Yi Xiao been pulled in deeper? She might lose her life at any time."


    "Go."


    Qin Yun gritted his teeth.


    Phew.


    He took the initiative to step forward.


    As he approached the center, the sweeping forces of the white forces increased tremendously. Soon, Qin Yun could not extricate himself, not even with the Heavy Sand Sword or the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "An array formation must have a way to crack it. There has to be a way to survive this," thought Qin Yun. "I will definitely save Yi Xiao and bring her out of here."


    Phew.


    As though he was pulled into a maelstrom, he was constantly hurled towards the center. The forces turned increasingly stronger as Qin Yun felt like he was floating. There was no way to resist it any further.


    "Boom!"


    When the vortex''s strength reach it''s strongest, it vanished.


    Qin Yun also fell into a dark and deep passage.


    Phew.


    He plummeted down.


    While plummeting, the Cyclic Sword Flash continued protecting him. Although the array formation was powerful, it still failed to break through his Cyclic Sword Flash! After all, the Cyclic Sword Flash produced by Golden Core Dharmic powers would probably not be broken even if a Golden Core Paramount realm expert were here.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly looked down and in a corner, there was a slim figure clinging closely to a wall with ice-blue ripples protecting her vicinity.


    "Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun shouted.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao was standing in a corner, with ice-blue ripples protecting her surroundings. However, it was clearly thinning and she was warily on guard.


    "What do I do? Leaving this spot means death, but so does not leaving too." Yi Xiao was anxious.


    She had been pulled in and before the protective treasure was completely dissolved, she had fallen into a dark and deep passage.


    Yi Xiao discovered that just a slight movement would immediately lead to invisible attacks on her! Therefore, she could only cling to the wall motionlessly. But even so, there would be a wave of assaults from time to time.


    "Phew."


    A wind blew in the passage.


    With each blast of the wind, there were invisible forces that were hidden in it.


    The invisible blasts slashed at the ice-blue ripples that protected Yi Xiao, weakening them slightly. When Yi Xiao saw the thinning ripples and the cracking Dao talisman in her hand, she said under her breath, "It won''t last much longer."


    "Qin Yun, I can''t hold on any longer."


    Yi Xiao looked up and saw that through the dark passage that led upwards, she could barely see the white forces hurling outside.


    "I really do not want to die. I want to spend the rest of my life with you¡­" Yi Xiao muttered softly.


    Suddenly, a resplendent Cyclic Sword Flash descended down. In the barrier of light was a young man. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao was stunned as she looked up at the descending figure. Back when they fought with Water God, Qin Yun had once saved her!


    Back when she was captured by Princess Martial Maple, Qin Yun had also saved her.


    But only this time, when she experienced the might of the terrifying array formation that Yi Xiao understood that Qin Yun would probably not be able to escape if he were to enter.


    "Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun shouted.


    The moment he landed, he maintained the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier and flew over. Immediately, invisible forces in the corridor came assaulting Qin Yun''s sword flash barrier. However, he withstood it and flew straight to Yi Xiao''s side, protecting her with his Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Yi Xiao, I''m here." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and could not help but smile. He was beaming radiantly.


    Qin Yun felt filled with joy when he found Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao was crying but as she cried, she hugged Qin Yun and wailed. She had never cried this badly ever since she grew up.


    "Why are you so foolish? Why did you come in? You don''t have to care about me!" Yi Xiao cried. "How are you to go out after coming in? Are you a fool?"


    "I''m not a fool." Qin Yun hugged Yi Xiao. "I only know that I''m happiest at this moment."


    Yi Xiao looked up at Qin Yun through her blurry tears. "This array formation is too dangerous. There''s no need for you to enter. I won''t be able to escape, so why did you send yourself in here to die?"


    "Yi Xiao, if I were outside, no matter how glorious or exciting the things I encounter, I will only be facing it lonelily, with no one to share it with. That would also be a form of torture for me." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao in his arms and said with a smile. "On the other hand, I''m now very happy. Because no matter what happens next, be it life or death, you and I can face it together."


    Yi Xiao smiled as well. "We will face it together."


    From a young age, she had been alone. Her mother had long abandoned her, and her father had abandoned her at the age of nine.


    And at that moment, Yi Xiao believed that she would not be lonely forever. Be it life or death, there would always be one person accompanying her.


    She felt that the heavens treated her pretty well.


    "Logically speaking, Immortal Scenic Yang''s array formations shouldn''t be that ruthless and merciless." Qin Yun held Yi Xiao''s hand. "Let''s look around. I believe we will definitely find a way out."

 165 Elder Sword

    Chapter 165: Elder Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun led Yi Xiao as they proceeded forward under the protection of the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. The Heavy Sand Sword was kept in his sleeve, constantly prepared for any situation.


    The long corridor was dark, with stone lining the walls.


    While they proceeded along the corridor, a wind began to stir. Formless blasts began a relentless assault on the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Immortal Scenic Yang''s array formation shouldn''t be this ruthless," Yi Xiao said under her breath. "After Second Uncle triggered the array formation, he did not last long before he was diced to death. I was lucky and was only pulled into this underground spot. But if not for you, I would have been diced to death by the formless blasts just a short while later."


    Qin Yun nodded. "This formless blast comes without warning and leaves without a trace. I only detect it when it enters my sword intent domain. It''s like a top assassin."


    "Qin Yun, you have to be careful. The creator must have his reasons to set up such a powerful array formation." Yi Xiao alerted immediately.


    "I know." Qin Yun was also on high alert. Similarly, he did not wish to die. He still wanted to bring Yi Xiao out with him.


    The corridor winded around.


    As they proceeded through the corridor, they would be struck by the formless blasts.


    "Oh?" When Qin Yun and Yi Xiao passed a bend, they saw an exquisite hall ahead of them. After stepping into the hall''s corridors, they did not receive any further attacks. The duo turned to look at the dark corridor they came from and could not help but be puzzled.


    "This must be Immortal Scenic Yang''s meditation grounds where he secludes himself." Yi Xiao guessed.


    "Let''s enter to take a look." Qin Yun led Yi Xiao and continued maintaining the Cyclic Sword Flash while carefully proceeding forward.


    There was only a thin mat in the hall that looked very simple and elegant.


    There were also folding screens to the left of the hall. There were rooms behind the screen, a bookshelf, chairs and further behind, there was a bed.


    "Immortal Scenic Yang must have done his calligraphy in here and sleeps there," commented an observant Qin Yun.


    "Qin Yun, there''s a backdoor here," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Let''s take a look."


    The wooden door to the side was easily pushed open.


    Beyond the wooden door was, to Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s surprise, a garden. It was an underground garden with the ceiling mounted with beads that emitted light, illuminating the garden. Inside the garden were some flowers and grass. Even though there was perennially no sun, this vegetation continued to grow. It was truly quite fascinating.


    "Qin Yun." Yi Xiao tugged at Qin Yun and pointed into the distance.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was shocked when he turned his head.


    In the corner of the garden sat a cross-legged man. He was motionless and did not have any signs of breathing.


    "This garden doesn''t have any array formations. My sword intent domain also senses that there are no fluctuations in the vicinity. It should be very safe." Qin Yun withdrew his Cyclic Sword Flash and wielded his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked over.


    The person sitting cross-legged was a white-haired elder. He was dressed in black robes and was extremely thin.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at the stone wall beside which had words engraved on it.


    "I knocked open the gate of immortality at the age of twelve while cultivating the talisman amulet lineage. I was ordinary for more than twenty years, and at the age of thirty-six, obtained a Sword Immortal Legacy. I gained insights into sword intent and converted to being a sword immortal. From then on, I became famous and was invincible for three centuries. Immortals and fiendcelestials have been defeated under my sword, and I have once killed a fiendcelestial. However, my lifespan was limited to five hundred years. I searched for every manual in the world but eventually failed to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage. Without forming the Essence Soul, there is no eternal youth, so how can I be called a sword immortal? What a joke!"


    There was a line of text written beneath: ''Elder Sword.''


    "Elder Sword?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were astonished.


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun looked at the cross-legged corpse. This was a famous sword immortal in history, yet here he was dead.


    Yi Xiao said, "Elder Sword has quite an eccentric and unreasonable personality but his strength is unfathomable. In his era, he was number one among everybody beneath the Essence Soul realm! Be it humans, demons, or the Four Seas'' Water race, he was truly invincible. What can be confirmed is that he had once slain a fiendcelestial from Fire Lotus Palace. Defeating fiendcelestials and killing one is completely different things."


    Qin Yun nodded. "To kill a fiendcelestial at the Connate Golden Core realm! Impressive, truly impressive."


    "I heard that back then, even immortals and fiendcelestials did not dare offend Elder Sword. After all, due to the large amount of karma he had, they would probably invoke the tribulations on themselves if they killed Elder Sword. It would kill them on the spot." Yi Xiao was a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple and also a daughter of the Yi family, so she was very knowledgeable about such histories. "But in order to create a Dharmic formulation that allows sword immortals to enter the Essence Soul realm, he sought manuals everywhere. However, manuals are the cornerstone heritage of a sect! He naturally forced some immortals and fiendcelestials to take action. However, those immortals and fiendcelestials did not dare kill him. All they did was capture him."


    "However, the outcome of the acts of these immortals and fiendcelestials was that many of them were defeated by him." Yi Xiao shook her head. "And one of them was killed by him."


    "Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was supposedly very marvelous. It was described as a single flying sword but it could be disassembled into seven flying swords that could form an array formation." Yi Xiao sighed. "Elder Sword''s attainments in the art of array formations is also extremely brilliant. The ruthless array formation from outside was probably left behind by him."


    Qin Yun nodded. "What a pity. A sword immortal that was invincible for a generation was still no match for the limited lifespan he had. There have been some who managed to grasp Sword Dao in my sword immortal lineage, and slew fiendcelestials like Elder Sword, but they were only a small handful. All of them were only recorded in books, such as the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands. Numinous Treasure Mountain, Divine Firmament Chapter, and Primordial Chaos Sect all have immortals alive. Although Scenic Mountain Sect is a shadow of its former self, it still has an immortal presiding over it."


    "Only my sword immortal lineage does not have Essence Soul Dharmic formulations." Qin Yun shook his head. "Elder Sword is right. Without being an immortal, calling ourselves sword immortals is nothing but a joke."


    Yi Xiao held Qin Yun''s hand.


    Qin Yun turned to look at Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun, you must have heard of our Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Of course he knew that!


    The Divine Firmament Chapter''s Zhang family was in no way inferior to Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Bai family. Ancestral Master Zhang had managed to uplift the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma to an unfathomable state and made the Divine Firmament Chapter enjoy a tremendous rise, making it enter the echelons of Daoist sacred lands. As a result¡­ every generation''s sect master of the Divine Firmament Chapter was helmed by someone from the Zhang family without any exceptions! There were no complaints either because the Divine Firmament Chapter disciples idolized Ancestral Master Zhang greatly. Furthermore, he was still alive!


    "In the past, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma was not considered strong. The Divine Firmament Chapter wasn''t even a Daoist sacred land! Ancestral Master Zhang managed to perfect and uplift the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. It was then recognized as the world''s best Lightning Dharma," elaborated Yi Xiao. "It''s said that Lightning Dharma is the leader of all Dharma. And with the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma reigning supreme, all of this is thanks to Ancestral Master Zhang."


    "Since Ancestral Master Zhang managed to uplift a Dharmic formulation to such a state, Qin Yun, it''s possible that you can create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage in the future." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    However, both of them were acutely aware that Ancestral Master Zhang might have perfected the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma and uplifted it to a higher cultivation level but the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma was still part of the talisman amulet lineage. The lineage already had other powerful Dharmic formulations that could be referenced.


    But the sword immortal lineage was different.


    From time immemorial, there had been no Essence Soul sword immortal Dharmic formulations. The difficulty of creating one was clearly much harder. There had been numerous examples of excellent figures in history, peerless sword immortals that had even grasped Sword Dao, but eventually, they passed away in silence. Elder Sword was one example.


    "Elder Sword died here and the immortal abode was only opened with the six tokens gathered," said Qin Yun. "Perhaps, we are the first to see Elder Sword''s corpse. Let''s bury him so that he can rest in peace."


    Yi Xiao looked at the corpse in front of her and said softly, "Second Uncle died because of him. If not for you coming quickly, I''ll probably be dead here too. I was burning with anger actually. However, to face danger after entering an immortal abode is not something that can be blamed on others. There''s no reason to seek revenge on a corpse. Let''s bury him."


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    Yes, he had forgotten that Yi Fenggu had died because of the array formation.


    "This Elder Sword is truly ruthless. He did not show any mercy with his array formation." Qin Yun shook his head. With a wave of his hand, a sword beam flew out and rapidly blasted a huge pit in the earth. He controlled the Heaven and Earth powers and directly moved Elder Sword''s corpse into the pit before covering it. Finally, he set up a tombstone.


    On the tombstone wrote: Tomb of Elder Sword.


    When Yi Xiao saw the tomb, her gaze turned very cold.


    "Qin Yun, this Elder Sword''s corpse was completely empty. Did he not bring any powerful Dharma treasures?" Yi Xiao asked. "Furthermore, the way out is not mentioned on the stone wall."


    "Let''s continue searching. Elder Sword must have his goals for setting up this array formation." Qin Yun also began to look at his surroundings carefully.

 166 Three Stone Chambers

    Chapter 166: Three Stone Chambers


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao searched carefully in the garden.


    "Oh?" Soon, Qin Yun discovered that a stone wall seemed amiss. With a light push, the stone door was immediately pushed open.


    "There''s a stone chamber in here?" Yi Xiao observed carefully as well.


    Qin Yun nodded and walked into the stone chamber. It was rather spacious and there was text engraved on a stone wall: "Do you want to leave? Solve the challenges of the three stone chambers, and not only would you be able to exit, you would receive all I have accumulated over the years. If not, die of age together with me in here."


    "This Elder Sword is so unfeeling. If I had known earlier, I wouldn''t have let him be buried." Yi Xiao was instantly maddened when she saw it.


    "He''s already dead so there''s no need to spite him. Also, let''s see what the challenges of the three stone chambers are." Qin Yun discovered a book inside the stone chamber at a glance.


    He directly walked forward and there was a stone in front. The rock which the book laid on had the words engraved, "Beam Transformation Art is an escape art I created independently. If you are able to reach the seventh level, you will be able to open the seal to the second stone chamber. It is the easiest of the three stone chambers, so don''t you get stuck here for a decade."


    Yi Xiao touched the stone door and there was an array formation seal within it. "Qin Yun, this seal is very powerful."


    "Make way," requested Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao immediately retreated to Qin Yun''s side.


    "Go."


    Without any hesitation, Qin Yun struck out with his Bright Moon Over River flying sword art. His Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a moon-like sword beam that stabbed the stone door''s array formation seal. As for the Heavy Sand Sword, he kept it close to him to prevent any mishaps.


    "Boom!" Light from the door''s seal burgeoned, as the remaining shockwaves swept through the stone chamber, causing countless rubble in the room to fly wantonly.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Hold."


    Immediately, all the rubble and dust was left suspended in midair before they rapidly plummeted to the ground, leaving no dust floating in the air.


    "It didn''t even twitch." Qin Yun shook his head. Although Elder Sword had an eccentric personality and was ruthless towards strangers, his array formation arts are indeed impressive."


    As Qin Yun spoke, he flipped through the book.


    The ''Beam Transformation Art'' was a flying escape art. The most common flying method sword immortals used was Sword Kinesis Flight. If one had a profound enough realm, sword intent could permeate their entire bodies, and with their bodies as swords, they could similarly use extremely powerful flying arts!


    "Interesting. The Beam Transformation Art that Elder Sword created is indeed very unique." Qin Yun fell into rumination when he read it.


    The theory being the Beam Transformation Art was to use Dharmic powers to constitute an array formation on one''s outer body. Once it was activated, and powered by Dharmic powers, the entire person would be like a flying sword. The speed at which the caster could fly¡­ was almost no different from the true speed at which flying swords could go at.


    The Beam Transformation Art was a flying escape art created by Elder Sword, a peerless sword immortal of a generation complemented with his accomplishments in array formations. There were a total of nine levels.


    As Elder Sword put it, as long as he achieved the seventh level, he would be able to resolve the seal on the second stone door.


    "What a powerful flying escape art." Qin Yun handed the manual to Yi Xiao. "Yi Xiao, you can take a look too."


    "You want me to look at it too?" Yi Xiao hesitated.


    After Qin Yun read it once, the text on the manual had lightened. After all, the more heaven-defying the Dharmic formulation was, the more it succumbed to heaven''s envy. Typical manuals had limited reads!


    "There''s only the two of us anyway. I imagine that this manual can be read about five or six times," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Yi Xiao took it and read it once before nodding. "Impressive. This Beam Transformation Art is indeed extraordinary. However, compared to my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma''s ''Lightning Manifestation,'' it is still slightly inferior."


    Qin Yun laughed. "Lightning is naturally faster than a flying sword."


    "However, the seventh level is very difficult," said Yi Xiao immediately. "It feels like it''s an extremely complicated sword art."


    "Yea, to infuse sword intent into an array formation. That is Elder Sword," said Qin Yun. "Yi Xiao, have a rest. I''ll try cultivating it."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    Qin Yun immediately sat cross-legged in a corner and calmed his mind to meditate. The cultivation formulations of the Beam Transformation Art began to suffuse in his mind.


    Qin Yun did not understand array formations but he knew sword arts!


    The Beam Transformation Art was, in essence, an array formation sword art. It had to be cast instantly, transforming one''s body into a beam that could streak through the sky.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun completely immersed himself in the cultivation.


    Yi Xiao waited silently by the side. As she watched Qin Yun cultivate seriously with his eyes closed, she could not help but smile. She continued watching the cross-legged Qin Yun.


    An hour later.


    "Whew!"


    Qin Yun''s body instantly transformed into a stream of light, coruscating twice in the stone chamber. He circled the garden outside once before returning inside the stone chamber before he continued sitting there cross-legged.


    "What happened?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I encountered some trouble in the beginning," Qin Yun opened his eyes and said with a smile. "Having fully figured it out, it''s still early. I just cultivated to the third level. I''ll continue cultivating."


    "You are already at the third level?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    Qin Yun continued in his immersion.


    There was no day or night underground. The beads that were on the garden''s ceiling was the only source of light.


    Yi Xiao waited a long while. She took out teacups from her Cosmic Bag and cast a tiny Dharma spell. Immediately, water condensed and flowed into a teacup. With a cup of water, Yi Xiao drank it and looked at the nearby Qin Yun. "I wonder how long we will stay in this underground place. Qin Yun got trapped in here because of me."


    Finally, Qin Yun opened his eyes once again.


    "How was the cultivation?" asked Yi Xiao immediately.


    "It''s a very powerful flying escape art. I immersed myself without even realizing it," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, my sword intent is still lacking. All I did was cultivate to the eighth level! To cultivate to the ninth level? It will probably require the Sword Intent Paramount realm."


    "Already the eighth level?" Yi Xiao was amazed. "I read it. It felt very difficult."


    "It''s not difficult if you understand the concepts," said Qin Yun with a smile. "In essence, it''s a unique sword art, another implementation of sword arts. It was a little tough grasping the basics, but it wasn''t much once I understood it."


    "And that''s only for you," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "According to the manual, in Elder Sword''s words, those with ordinary talent would not be able to grasp the basics. Extremely talented ones would take three years to grasp the basics. Only a rare Sword Dao genius would take a day or two to grasp the basics. As for cultivating to a profound realm, it would be more difficult. Elder Sword had to be extremely careful in who to hand down his Dharmic formulations. Unless it was someone with top talent, they would not be taught. As for you, you grasped the basics in an hour and cultivated to the eighth level in a day."


    Qin Yun smiled. "All sword arts have sword intent as their fundamentals. The others are just superficial. Let''s go. Let''s see what challenges lie ahead in the second stone chamber."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao was also greatly looking forward to it.


    The two came in front of the sealed stone door.


    Qin Yun understood at a glance. In order to activate the array formation''s seal, a ''catalyst'' was needed. The Beam Transformation Art''s seventh level''s sword array graph was such a catalyst.


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Shoo!


    The sword immortal Dharmic power flew out and instantly produced the Beam Transformation Art''s seventh level sword array graph on the seal. The array formation''s seal vibrated gently before dissipating on its own accord.


    "Bam." Qin Yun gently pushed and the stone door opened. Beyond that was the second stone chamber.


    In it, there was a stone table. Seven books were placed on it as though they were manuals carved from jade.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked up to it and saw that the stone table had words engraved on it.


    "The foundation of my Sword Dao stems from these seven sword intents! Learn my sword art and grasp the seven sword intents, and you will gain entry to the third stone chamber. This is also the second challenge."


    The text caused Qin Yun''s expression to change slightly.


    Yi Xiao could not help but say, "Grasp seven sword intents? Why is he so ruthless? Even legendary peerless sword immortals would spend a great deal of time on one sword intent. How long will it take to grasp seven different sword intents? To think you gave him a tombstone."


    Qin Yun was helpless as well.


    He was confident when it came to sword arts, but to grasp seven different sword intents¡­


    "Yi Xiao," Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao. "The seven sword intents, ignoring the third challenge that lies ahead, just these seven sword intents¡­ will definitely not be something that can be cracked in a short amount of time. From the looks of it, we will have to stay here for an extended period of time."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. When she thought how they would be living together for an extended period of time, with no one disturbing them, she suddenly felt that it wasn''t a bad thing either.


    "But you will have no choice of meeting Uncle and Auntie," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "There''s my brother to take care of them. Furthermore, I got Brother Hong to help," Qin Yun said with a smile. "His strength and the means that are available to him should be sufficient."


    Hong Lingtong had treasures, including the Golden Core Outer Pills. With his abilities to avert crises and infer the future, Qin Yun was still rather assured.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "Thankfully, the both of us have entered the Connate realm. Even if we were to consume the wind and imbibe dew, we would not starve to death."

 167 Marriage

    Chapter 167: Marriage


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at the seven manuals that resembled carved jade. He picked up one book and on it was the word ''Starlight.'' As he flipped through them, the pages were soft and lustrous. Each page was filled with dense text and attached figures that described a sword formulation. Qin Yun guessed that they were personally drawn by Elder Sword since each figure contained sword intent that inundated him.


    "What a powerful sword formulation. It leads directly to the Sword Intent Paramount realm," exclaimed Qin Yun. "However, everyone has their own understanding when it comes to the implications of the Heavenly Dao. By referencing the ancients, one can at best gain a sliver of insight but the differences will only be magnified in the future. It''s impossible to gain insight into the same Sword Intent Paramount realm."


    For example, back when Qin Yun was cultivating the Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art, he had done so because he noticed that the Misty Rain Sword Intent shared similarities with it.


    But the further he delved in, the more magnified the differences became.


    "If you learn this sword formulation, will you be able to grasp the sword intent?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Elder Sword must have decided on leaving behind his heritage. Therefore, the sword formulations that are recorded are very detailed." Qin Yun nodded. "There is still chance of grasping a sliver of the intent."


    Qin Yun flipped through the other six manuals.


    The seven great sword formulations were: Starlight, Desecrated Moon, Blazing Sun, Profound Theory, Heavenly Change, Dark Shadow, and Formless. Each sword formulation led directly to the Sword Intent Paramount realm! The seven sword intent combined could form the complete Seven Kills Sword Dao.


    "Logically speaking, once one reaches the Sword Intent Paramount realm, it only takes one more step to enter the Dao," commented Qin Yun. "As for Elder Sword, he had seven sword intent at the Paramount realm. It''s no wonder the Seven Kills Sword Dao he eventually combines is that powerful, allowing him to leapfrog a realm to kill a fiendcelestial. However, his Dao is not my Dao."


    Yi Xiao said worriedly, "Qin Yun, would it affect your cultivation if you were to ponder over the seven sword intents?"


    "It won''t," Qin Yun said with a smile. "To have the heart aligned to the sword and to the Dao! I would not take the path of the sword arrays. To me, all sword intent are just parts of the Heavenly Dao''s charm. If I study it in greater quantities, my insights will only go deeper. The advice from others can help to overcome one''s shortcomings. By drawing on Elder Sword''s experience, my Misty Rain Sword Intent will eventually only become stronger."


    "Alright, I''ll give it a try to see if the array formation set up by Elder Sword has any flaws," said Qin Yun. "He put away the seven manuals and walked out the stone chamber with Yi Xiao following behind him.


    Qin Yun casually walked to a corner of the garden.


    "Break!"


    His sword intent domain caused the stone wall in front of him to crumble to dust. A passage was dug out instantly.


    Qin Yun led Yi Xiao forward as thick rocks constantly crumbled along the way.


    "Using intent domain for digging is surely fast," joked Yi Xiao.


    "You are impressive too. You got an intent domain expert to do the digging." Qin Yun laughed as well. However, after digging a few hundred feet, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao saw the circulation of the array formation''s lustrous streams of light.


    "Break!"


    He released his flying sword.


    After repeated attempts of his flying sword arts to no avail, Qin Yun could only shake his head. "He did not leave any chance at all. Forget it. Let''s make plans for our future."


    "Make plans for our future?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "We need to have a place to stay, right?" smiled Qin Yun.


    "Yea." Upon thinking of something, Yi Xiao''s face blushed slightly.


    ¡­


    With the means available to cultivators, it was naturally not a problem for them to dig out a cave abode within the thick rocks. There were a hall, rooms, cultivation chambers, with doors and windows.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao worked together; yet, they felt a sense of bliss because this was their shared residence.


    "Alright." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood in the hall and looked at their residence.


    Tables, chairs, and beds were set up.


    "I''ll stay in this room." Yi Xiao chose a room.


    "I''ll take this one." Qin Yun went to the side.


    Yi Xiao nodded. At the same time, she walked into Qin Yun''s room and took out bedware from her Cosmic Bag. It surprised Qin Yun. "This¡­"


    "When I travel the world outside, I dislike using the bedware provided by the inns. I always carry them with me." Yi Xiao blushed slightly. "Why? Do you dislike it? Then, I''ll take them away."


    "No, not at all. Now, Even if I were to pay a million taels of silver just to buy a blanket, there''s nowhere to buy one." Qin Yun sat on the bedding and took in the faint fragrance. He knew Yi Xiao had used it before.


    Yi Xiao blushed and turned to return to her room.


    Back when she traveled, she did not only bring one set of bedware. She had even brought many daily items. As for Qin Yun? He wasn''t as meticulous, so now, he reaped the benefits of Yi Xiao.


    ******


    In the following days, the two spent all their time together. It was like an immortal''s paradise with no one else but them.


    Whatever rules and customs of the mortal world were a great distance from them.


    They cultivated, discussed the Dao, and chatted daily.


    One day, the duo was snuggling on a bed of flowers. Yi Xiao was leaning in Qin Yun''s embrace.


    "The Yi family is a thousand-year-old family clan," said Yi Xiao softly. "With so many people in the family, pretty much everyone in the provincial city is from the Yi family. After my father abandoned me, I was all alone¡­ Thankfully, I had garnered success in Qi Refinement and had better days. Before I stood out, few clansmen would bother with a little girl that had no father or mother like me. For example, my Second Uncle. Although I address him that¡­ in fact, he has quite a bit of talent in cultivation. When I was young, he was already at the Connate True Core realm. But before I had any success in Qi Refinement, I had never seen him before."


    Qin Yun listened by the side.


    "Even in the Divine Firmament Chapter, there are only normal lessons between master and disciple. Master has her own cultivation as well, and would occasionally give me pointers," said Yi Xiao. "Only as I gradually grew up were there more senior and junior brothers that showed me attention."


    "It''s because you are beautiful," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "Did you like me also because I''m beautiful?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "There are so many beauties in the world but it''s not I like them either," said Qin Yun immediately.


    Yi Xiao chuckled and did not probe further.


    The couple chatted casually in an engaging conversation. They chatted about anything under the sky.


    "Yi Xiao." Qin Yun said suddenly.


    "Yea?" Yi Xiao responded.


    "When we exit this place, I''ll go to your family to ask for your hand in marriage. How about that?" Qin Yun asked.


    Yi Xiao was taken aback as she sat straight up. She looked at Qin Yun with reddened eyes. "Ask for my hand in marriage?"


    "Yea." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    "Why do you need to wait till we leave this place?" asked Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun was taken aback as he muttered, "Do you mean we do it here?"


    Yi Xiao said softly, "In this world, I do not care about anyone else. All I care about is you. Why should we care about anyone else when we are the ones getting married?"


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and understood her thoughts.


    "Haha, I guess I''m caught up with abiding by the customs of the mortal world." Qin Yun laughed as well. "We are both cultivators, so why do we need to care about other things? This place is like an otherworldly paradise, and it''s also an immortal abode. Let us get married here!"


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded. She was long prepared. After all, other than Qin Yun, she did not want to marry anyone else.


    ¡­


    The couple began to make meticulous preparations.


    Thankfully, the garden had many flower petals that could be used to adorn the bridal room to mark the joyous event.


    Much of what they obtained from the expedition to the immortal abode such as Dharma treasures and natural treasures were used to embellish the area, making the residence extremely beautiful. It began resembling an immortal''s cave abode. Extravagant items were used, like a fist-sized immortal rock or East Sea Flood Dragon Oil for the lighting of a fire. There was no other way around it either since the both of them could not find anything cheap or ordinary.


    The duo''s clothes were Dharma treasures as they transformed them into red gowns.


    A Dao Ancestor''s portrait was hung in the central wall of the hall.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked into each other''s eyes before they knelt down amid smiles.


    "Esteemed Dao Ancestor, your disciple, Qin Yun, is willing to marry Yi Xiao as his wife. I wish that the both of us will live to a ripe old age in conjugal bliss, never to separate from one other." Qin Yun said as he held his breath. At that moment, he felt nervous but he also felt joy coursing through his entire body.


    Yi Xiao said as well, "Esteemed Dao Ancestor, your disciple, Yi Xiao, is willing to marry Qin Yun as her husband, never to separate from one other."


    Following that, the both of them stood up and looked into each other''s eyes.


    "My groom," said Yi Xiao softly.


    "My bride." Qin Yun held Yi Xiao''s hand.


    The couple entered the bedroom.


    Under the illumination of the candlelight, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao crossed their arms to drink from their wine cups.


    "It''s our wedding night. My bride, it''s time we have some rest," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    Qin Yun pulled Yi Xiao as she fell to the bed. Her blushed face exuded anxiety as she whispered, "Might my dear husband be tender."


    That night, quilts naturally ruffled as the new husband and wife engaged in matrimonial bliss.

 168 Connate True Core Realm

    Chapter 168: Connate True Core Realm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The next day.


    Qin Yun woke up and opened his eyes to see Yi Xiao still sleeping soundly beside him. Her skin was fair with a ruddy complexion that even seemed crystalline. Firstly, she had excellent genes and secondly, the rejuvenation she experienced from cultivation made her naturally different. Qin Yun continued watching the woman next to him. She was his wife from that moment forth.


    Yi Xiao drowsily opened her eyes and saw Qin Yun beside her. She could not help but smile. "Why are you staring at me?"


    "Your beauty is picturesque, so it''s natural to stare at it," Qin Yun quipped.


    "I never realized you were such a sweet talker." Yi Xiao smiled.


    "Is that so? I''m just a frank person. I''ll say only the truth. I do not like to lie," replied Qin Yun.


    "Alright, cut it out. Let''s get up," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Let me help dress you up, my wife" Qin Yun immediately took the clothes by the side.


    "There''s no need to trouble you, my husband." Yi Xiao felt helpless. With a gentle beckoning of her hand, the Dharma treasure robe quickly covered her body.


    ¡­


    After the wedding, the two led inseparable lives like glue.


    "Qin Yun!!!" Yi Xiao pointed at a metal wok which had meat in it. "The meat is almost burnt. The Cosmic Bags only have that bit of rice and meat but you actually burnt it. Didn''t you say that you were good at cooking?"


    "Xiaoxiao, it''s not burnt yet!" Qin Yun was all over the place while he cooked. "The frozen meat in the Cosmic Bag is usually roasted directly in the wild before eating. This roasted meat¡­ this metal wok is an eighth-grade Dharma treasure too. It wasn''t meant for roasting meat. It''s hard to control the heat."


    "There aren''t any other metal woks. Only this Dharma treasure barely makes the cut. I said I would do it but you insisted otherwise," said a helpless Yi Xiao.


    "Don''t be angry, don''t be angry, my wife," Qin Yun said helplessly. "Sigh, when have I ever been so worried about a piece of meat."


    In the underground world, every bit of rice and meat would only be eaten when they had a rare celebration. They rationed the food very carefully.


    The meat was slightly charred but the couple enjoyed it nonetheless.


    ¡­


    Deep in the stone chamber, Yi Xiao made repeated attempts at attacking Elder Sword''s array formation with the Lightning Dharma.


    "I''m tired, it''s your turn." Having expended most of her Dharmic powers and suffering from mental fatigue, Yi Xiao immediately sat in one corner.


    "Alright, watch me, my wife." Qin Yun stood up.


    The two cast their Dharma spells or sword arts aimed at the array formation, striking it again and again, but to no avail! It was naturally the best if they could destroy it but they couldn''t.


    ¡­


    Time flowed by.


    Days turned to months.


    Yi Xiao was in a better state of mind. As long as she was with Qin Yun, she would be happy even if they stayed here their entire lives. However, Qin Yun still missed his parents. He was eager to leave.


    In a blink of an eye, two years had passed since they were trapped in the array formation.


    "Xiaoxiao, I''ll be cultivating in seclusion for a few days," said Qin Yun. "I''ll attempt to break through to the Connate True Core realm, as well as my Intrinsic Flying Sword. Let''s hope that I can destroy Elder Sword''s array formation through the use of overwhelming force."


    "Alright," Yi Xiao nodded. "Don''t be too hasty. Out of Elder Sword''s seven sword intents, you have grasped five of them. I believe you aren''t far from grasping all seven."


    Qin Yun nodded and knitted his brows slightly. "That''s only the second obstacle out of the three stone chambers. I believe that the third stone chamber''s obstacle would be even more difficult. If we really heed Elder Sword''s words, it is truly an unknown how long it will take to overcome the three stone chambers'' obstacles. Perhaps, attempting to destroy the array formation with overwhelming strength would be faster."


    "Qin Yun," Yi Xiao immediately said seriously. "Do not be hasty. When you make the breakthrough, you have to be calm."


    "Don''t worry. I know that," replied Qin Yun.


    Immediately, Qin Yun entered a room and closed the door.


    Yi Xiao could only wait outside.


    Inside a room.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat. It was a fourth-grade Dharma treasure that had been obtained from the immortal abode. It aided in calming one''s mind.


    "I increased my Dharmic powers with the help of some Spirit Pills that Immortal Scenic Yang left behind, and now, I''m finally close to that breakthrough." Qin Yun thought to himself. Although he had long reached the sword intent domain stage and his cultivation speed was relatively fast, it would have taken him a few more years without the Spirit Pills.


    He closed his eyes and gradually calmed his mind.


    After two hours, his mind was as tranquil as still water and filled with emptiness.


    Only then did he begin stirring his Connate False Core. It was a lot bigger than when he first entered the Connate realm. At that moment, the Connate False Core was about ten times the size of the Intrinsic Flying Sword Sword Ball in diameter! There were immense misty energies gathered in it making it gorgeous and mysterious.


    "Up." Qin Yun directed with his mind. Boom!


    The mist within the Connate False Core began converting into streams of Sword Qi. Dense amounts of it were swirling around the Connate False Core, and every Sword Qi contained the Misty Rain Sword Intent. Now, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Intent was at a much more profound level. Every Sword Qi was extremely pure in quality. Innumerable streams of Sword Qi revolved slowly.


    But as they revolved, the Connate False Core gradually shrunk.


    The more they revolved, the smaller it became.


    Just like a grinding stone''s revolutions, every wisp of Sword Qi was being compressed constantly while it underwent the revolutions. The center of the entire Connate False Core had the greatest pressure. A point of light first condensed and it could not be any more corporeal. It was the present limit Qin Yun had reached.


    This point began to faintly suffuse pale gold light.


    "It''s done." Qin Yun was instantly overjoyed.


    After this point condensed, all the remaining Sword Qi surged in crazily and underwent conversion into power at the same level of the ''point.''


    Finally, the huge Connate False Core condensed into a whitish-gold True Core that was smaller than the Sword Ball.


    The True Core was spherical and whitish-gold! It appeared white at a cursory glance but there was a layer of golden light on its white surface.


    "True Core that suffuses golden light?" Qin Yun felt excited. "It looks like my True Core''s quality is extremely high. It''s not that inferior to that of a Golden Core."


    When he entered the Connate realm from the Postnatal realm, Qin Yun had grasped sword intent and Heaven Man Unity. As for the Connate False Core he condensed, it was a half step higher than Connate False Cores that cultivated using top heritage.


    From the False Core to the True Core realm, with him at the sword intent domain stage, he was in a much higher state than the majority of Connate False Core breakthroughs. For example, Yi Xiao, who had grasped a sliver of the Heavenly Dao''s implications at the Connate False Core realm was already considered a genius in a Daoist sacred land. As for Qin Yun''s True Core, it was naturally taking the lead once more, allowing him to be forever in the lead.


    The Connate True Core that Qin Yun condensed had partial characteristics of a Golden Core.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Qin Yun was very patient as he continued absorbing the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. After all, he had just broken through to the Connate True Core realm. It was a qualitative transformation that rapidly decreased his energy stores. The amount that was converted through his sword Qi was far from enough.


    The replenishment took six hours.


    The Connate True Core was eventually twice the size of the Intrinsic Sword Ball. He realized that he had reached his limit for if he continued absorbing more, it would exceed what his dantian could bear.


    "Let''s give this strength a try."


    Qin Yun opened his eyes and extended his hand, sending the Intrinsic Flying Sword out to float in front of him.


    He injected the transformed Connate True Core Sword Immortal with Dharmic Powers and began controlling it.


    "Rumble!" The Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a rainbow beam that flew around Qin Yun without any apparent pattern. Thankfully, Qin Yun''s sword intent domain permeated the entire stone chamber, easily restraining the surging energy and preventing the stone chamber from being implicated.


    "This Connate True Core of mine is slightly less pure than the Golden Core Outer core. But to control a flying sword with it, it''s a bit stronger than the Golden Core Outer core." Qin Yun could not help but marvel.


    The Golden Core Outer core was not suitable for the control of a flying sword. It only had an effectiveness of seventy percent.


    The Connate True Core that Qin Yun cultivated himself might be slightly weaker in Dharmic powers than the Golden Core Outer core, but when using it with the flying sword, the effects he produced were enhanced! After all, Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers were meant to control flying swords! Qin Yun sensed that the final outcome was that by controlling the flying sword with his own Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers, it exceeded the Golden Core Outer core, but it was only slightly stronger.


    "Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers are very suitable for the nurturing of an Intrinsic Flying Sword and the control of flying swords." Qin Yun thought to himself. "But when it comes to nurturing the body and soul, it is only ordinary."


    Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers flowed within his body but they did not enhance his body or soul at all.


    His body and soul had long been enhanced to a level that matched an ordinary Connate Golden Core because of the Golden Core Outer Pill. Qin Yun himself already had a lifespan of five hundred years.


    ¡­


    After the breakthrough, Qin Yun calmed his mind again and immediately began cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Before coming to the immortal abode, he had already amassed the materials that his Intrinsic Flying Sword needed to reach the third-grade. His realm was now sufficient and in the two years in the immortal abode, he had spent slightly more than a year to push his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the peak of the fourth-grade and did not dare continue cultivating his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He was afraid that he would find it difficult to control the Intrinsic Flying Sword with only his Connate False Core''s Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers when it broke through to the third grade.


    "Swoosh."


    The misty flying sword floated in front of him. The precious materials beneath it swarmed up as points of lights and into the flying sword.


    Everything was going according to his expectations. The flying sword vibrated and began absorbing the precious materials at an insane speed. And in five minutes, the relentless absorption came to an end. The sword''s hums also ended.


    "It has broken through to the third-grade." Qin Yun revealed a look of joy. At his sword intent domain level, he could at most use a third-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword!

 169 Flying Sword Art, Samsara

    Chapter 169: Flying Sword Art, Samsara


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao was in another room, sitting cross-legged on a mat as she waited for Qin Yun to exit seclusion.


    Suddenly, she heard a dull sound. It was the sound of a stone door being opened.


    "He''s out?" Yi Xiao got up immediately and headed out.


    The moment she entered the hall, she saw Qin Yun.


    "You came out of seclusion after only a day?" Yi Xiao was somewhat astonished.


    "Everything went very smoothly," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I thought my Intrinsic Flying Sword would take a few days, but to my surprise, it broke through to the third-grade within a day."


    "A third-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword is said to match a first-grade flying sword when used," Yi Xiao exclaimed in delight. "Furthermore, it uses a lot less Dharmic powers. My Divine Firmament Chapter only has a few heritages that focus on cultivating an intrinsic talisman amulet. Even my intrinsic talisman amulet is only at the sixth-grade at the moment!"


    A talisman amulet was similar to a Dharma treasure.


    It was very rare to cultivate an intrinsic Dharma treasure or talisman amulet. For instance, the Godfiend and Physical Establishing Sage lineages did not have intrinsic Dharma treasures.


    "Xiaoxiao, now that we are still trapped here, there isn''t any suitable treasures needed to nurture an intrinsic talisman amulet," said Qin Yun. "Your intrinsic talisman amulet can still be enhanced in the future."


    "Yea, that''s right."


    Qin Yun took out a Fire Cloud Calabash from the Cosmic Bag hanging by his waist and handed it to Yi Xiao. "Xiaoxiao, take this Golden Core Outer Pill. I kept offering it to you but you always refused it."


    "You aren''t going to use it?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yea, my Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers is only slightly weaker than the Golden Core Outer core''s Dharmic powers. But when used to control my flying swords, the strength is in no way inferior to the Golden Core Outer core," said Qin Yun. "My body and soul has long been nurtured to the level of the Connate Golden Core stage. This Golden Core Outer Pill has no more use for me."


    Yi Xiao smiled. "Alright, I won''t decline it then."


    Previously, Qin Yun had offered it to Yi Xiao but she refused to accept it! Qin Yun had previously consumed a Golden Core Outer Pill and had long depleted it. Yi Xiao was afraid that there would be danger when cracking the array formation, so she made Qin Yun keep it.


    "Let''s go. Let''s see if I can crack the array," said Qin Yun.


    "With Brother Yun''s most powerful flying sword art, perhaps you can forcibly crack the array formation with overwhelming strength." Yi Xiao looked forward to it as well. She knew very well that Qin Yun had improved tremendously over the past two years.


    The two quickly came to the deep depths of the stone-walled passage. In front of them was the array formation''s streaming light.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun extended his hand. A three-inch flying sword floated above his palm. It looked blurry like a mist and when powered by his Dharmic powers, it had extraordinarily terrifying might.


    Even Yi Xiao felt the pressure while standing beside him. She commented, "Brother Yun, this Intrinsic Flying Sword seems to be a lot stronger than it was in the past."


    "The same move is about fifty percent stronger." Qin Yun stared at the array formation in front of him. "With my Dharmic powers and Intrinsic Flying Sword''s breakthrough, as well as my newly created flying sword art¡­ Let''s see if I can crack it."


    "You will definitely be able to do so." Yi Xiao felt a sense of anticipation.


    Qin Yun held his breath and focused.


    At present, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword Art had three ultimate moves. One was Bright Moon Over River that he had from early on. Over time, it naturally became more perfected. The next move was an ultimate move known as Dual Flight, choreographed by two flying swords. The third move was very unique. It was named Samsara by Qin Yun. It stemmed from his eagerness to enter the array formation to seek Yi Xiao. The emotions of him risking everything and the wish to never abandon her in life or death had been heartfelt for more than a year before it was infused into a flying sword art.


    It stemmed from the fervent feeling of being willing to abandon his own life. It made Qin Yun gradually create this flying sword art, that was different in every way!


    First¡­


    The two ultimate moves, Bright Moon Over River and Dual Flight could be cast instantly and it drained an ordinary amount of power.


    But for Samsara, it was even more demanding on one''s state of mind! He had to embrace his emotions, making him fall into the state of frenzy and passion, the state of him willing to abandon everything because of Yi Xiao! Only under such a state of mind could he produce that strike! If there came a day when Qin Yun no longer believed in love or for other reasons, be incapable of entering such a state of mind, he would not be able to cast such a move again.


    This move was somewhat crazy, with the idea of consuming his life to make a desperate bet. When cast, it was extremely draining to his soul and mind.


    After casting it once, he would feel mental fatigue.


    After casting it twice, he would immediately collapse and feel like sleeping.


    If he were to cast it thrice¡­ Qin Yun had a feeling that the outcome would be very serious. It might even harm the foundations of his very soul.


    "Break!"


    Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with frenzy as he seemed to risk everything. The state of mind he had allowed him to inject large amounts of Dharmic powers into his Intrinsic Flying Sword. With a hum, Qin Yun suddenly felt a special but odd feeling. Just as the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s might blasted out, it also caused the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers to resonate. The resonance felt marvelous.


    It resembled the dropping of a stone into a lake which caused concentric ripples. It was just like an echo that resulted from a roar in a mountain valley.


    When the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s might reached a certain threshold, it would naturally cause the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers to resonate.


    With a mere thought from Qin Yun, a total of twenty-one beams of Sword Qi condensed around the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Sword Flash Dissociation?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    The legendary Sword Flash Dissociation was not like the Misty Rain Sword Art''s Spring Rain, which sacrificed the main flying sword''s might to dissociate into other sword flashes. Instead, it was because it was too powerful that it influenced the surroundings by nature. It guided the Heaven and Earth powers to condense sword flashes that followed right in its wake! Its original strength was not reduced in any way.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    As the Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out, twenty-one sword beams followed closely behind.


    Thunder rumbled as the Intrinsic Flying Sword, in a dazzling sword beam, struck the swirling array formation. And immediately following that, the twenty-one sword beams struck the same spot. The extremely stable array formation finally trembled and distorted.


    "Just a little short." Qin Yun clenched his teeth. "Crack!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flashed and returned for another mighty smite.


    The same moment it struck the array formation, the twenty-one sword beams that condensed out of the void bombarded consecutively. The distortions in the array formation turned more obvious, and there were even signs of it cracking.


    "Huff. Huff." Qin Yun stopped with his face pale. His soul felt extreme exhaustion.


    "Just a little short. What a pity. It was just short of that tiny bit." Qin Yun was unwilling to give up but his mind buzzed with dizziness.


    Yi Xiao consoled him. "Brother Yun, your flying sword art can already achieve Sword Flash Dissociation. It''s very impressive. Furthermore, it won''t take long before this array is broken. Brother Yun, as long as your strength increases a little more, it will probably shatter."


    "My Dharmic powers and Intrinsic Flying Sword cannot be raised again. My flying sword art¡­ Samsara is considered a desperate attack of mine. Just two strikes and I won''t be able to continue." Qin Yun felt his mind clear up a little. However, his face remained pale. He said while shaking his head, "There''s no chance of me raising my strength anytime soon. I really can''t accept it. I was just a little short."


    "If it''s made know that you have attained Sword Flash Dissociation, it will shock the whole world," consoled Yi Xiao.


    "Yea," Qin Yun nodded and said with a smile. "I never expected that an attack at full force would result in Sword Flash Dissociation. The sword beams that dissociated aren''t weak at all. From what I know, figures who have attained the Sword Flash Dissociation can produce Sword Flash Dissociation with a nonchalant strike. This move of mine has now skimmed that stage but unfortunately, I can only do it twice."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun rested for a few days before he attempted to leave directly from the dark passageway they had originally taken. He realized that leaving directly was even harder! The vast white array''s suction force was too powerful and with Qin Yun''s present strength, he was still unable to escape it.


    When his flying sword art skimmed the legendary realm of Sword Flash Dissociation, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were rather happy. However, Qin Yun continued feeling a little resentful that he was unable to crack the array. All he could do was continue enduring it.


    ******


    Grand Dominance, Qin Manor. It was the festive season of the new year once again.


    "It''s the new year! It''s the new year!"


    Shubing and Shuyan were releasing fireworks. Qin An and his wife were watching by the side. In her arms, she was carrying a baby.


    "It''s the new year and the two of them are now eight." Sitting not far away, Qin Liehu and Changlan were watching. Qin Liehu said with a sigh. "I remember back when Yun''er was eight. Our Qin family suffered from unfortunate circumstances and moved to Grand Dominance City. Yun''er also began practicing the way of the sword diligently."


    "Yea, back when we left the village for Grand Dominance, Yun''er could be considered insane when it came to his practicing of his swordplay. Furthermore, he was very perceptive." Changlan said helplessly. "As for Shuyan and Shubing, they are far inferior. Not only are they not perceptive, their diligence is nowhere comparable to Yun''er and company when they were in the village, much less back when Yun''er came to Grand Dominance."


    "They have been spoiled. All I can do is force them to practice their swordplay for two hours a day." Qin Liehu shook his head as he looked at the rising fireworks with the night sky as their backdrop. "Today''s the eve. I wonder how Yun''er is and when he will return."


    "It''s been more than two years." Changlan looked into the night sky and felt pangs of worry.


    It had been more than two years.


    There were many rumors in the Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world. Some even spread rumors that Qin Yun had died inside the immortal abode after he entered it to seek treasure! Of course, Hong Lingtong and company knew that Qin Yun was still alive because his transmission mark had not dissipated yet! However, the rumors spread by ordinary cultivators only became more ridiculous."


    "Yun''er hasn''t returned all this while. The cultivators that pledged allegiance have turned disorderly," said Qin Liehu. "Thankfully, there was Young Master Hong to strike fear in them."


    "But there were three that left," said Changlan.


    "Let them leave if they want to. It''s pointless forcing them to stay," said Qin Liehu. "However, that guy named Wu Jun was truly shameless. In his greed, he snuck away with the array formation treasures of our Qin Manor. Young Master Hong has managed to learn that Wu Jun has supposedly escaped out of Jiang Prefecture."


    "Hmph." Changlan was also incensed. "Thanks to Young Master Hong, he helped us reestablish our Qin Manor''s array formations. It wouldn''t be that simple for those mercenaries to steal the array formation treasures."


    "These matters are trivial. What I''m most worried is Yun''er. It has been more than two years but there''s no news from him at all," said Qin Liehu with a sigh.


    Changlan fell silent as well.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao spent three years in the immortal abode.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun stood afar and waved his hand.


    A flower more than hundred feet away was silently cleaved apart. Even one''s psyche could not sense any Sword Qi. As for Qin Yun and Yi Xiao, both of them revealed looks of delight.


    "Brother Yun, you mastered it. The Formless sword intent. you have finally mastered it," said an excited Yi Xiao.


    "Out of the seven sword intents, this Formless sword intent took me the longest. I have finally mastered it." Qin Yun felt excited as well. All his blood was coursing through his veins in excitement. The second obstacle out of the three stone chambers had stumped him for three years. "Let''s go. Let''s crack the second stone chamber and see what obstacles it has in store."

 170 Out! Final Chapter of Volume

    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao came to the second stone chamber once again. The stone door that led to the third stone chamber was sealed shut by an array formation.


    "Swoosh."


    A disk array was embedded in the middle of the sealed stone door.


    Qin Yun walked forward and touched the disk array gently. At the same time, his heart stirred and sent sword intent one after another into it, activating the disk array''s fluctuations. When the seven sword intents were infused, the might that flowed around the disk array automatically dissipated with a rumble. The disk array also dimmed. Qin Yun extended his arm and pushed open the stone door.


    "The third stone chamber." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao entered together.


    A sphere of light floated in the middle of the third stone chamber. There were runic patterns flowing across its surface and in the middle of the light sphere was an ancient and unadorned ball of stone.


    "Brother Yun, look." Yi Xiao pointed at the stone wall beside them.


    Qin Yun turned to look.


    On the stone wall were the words: "Figuring out the seven sword intents mean you are truly a genius among sword immortals. And this stone ball in front of you is the final obstacle. It is protected by an array formation. Only an intent domain can damage it. As long as you destroy it, you will be able to exit and obtain all that I have amassed all these years."


    After reading the line of text, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao turned to look at the stone ball in the middle of the sphere of light.


    "You need to destroy the stone ball?" Yi Xiao was puzzled as she touched the array formation.


    "Xiaoxiao, take a step back first. Let me give it a go," said Qin Yun. Yi Xiao nodded and retreated to Qin Yun''s side.


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Boom!


    Just the reverberating shockwaves that were produced from the collision of a sword beam on the array formation was terrifying. However, Qin Yun repressed it with his sword intent domain.


    "This array formation feels more stable than the massive array outside." Qin Yun shook his head. Although he had yet to use his full strength, just a simple attempt was enough for him to know the array formation''s strength.


    "If you can''t crack the array formation, how are you to destroy the stone ball within?" asked Yi Xiao. "Our Dharma spells and flying sword arts can''t enter it!"


    "We can only do as according to what Elder Sword said. Destroy it with an intent domain," said Qin Yun.


    After reaching the sword intent domain realm, he could release his sword intent and permeate anything!


    "There are no weapons or artifacts inside this array formation. You can only augment your sword intent onto the Heaven and Earth powers," said Yi Xiao. " A sword intent-augmented Sword Qi that is created through your Dharmic powers would have its strength greatly reduced. Simply augmenting the Heaven and Earth powers would only make it much weaker."


    "Elder Sword must be trying to use this to test the level of one''s sword intent," said Qin Yun. "The only way is to crack it open with sufficient sword intent."


    To a sword immortal, the most common move was to release a beam of Sword Qi.


    Sword Qi was condensed using one''s pure Dharmic powers! By infusing it with sword intent, its strength was still passable but it was far from a Dharma treasure flying sword!


    And the augmentation of the Heaven and Earth powers with sword intent was the weakest technique!


    It was an abandonment of all external factors such as Dharma treasure and Dharmic powers. It was a pure test of one''s sword intent!


    "Let me give it a try."


    Qin Yun went forward.


    His Dharmic powers could not penetrate the array formation''s lining but sword intent was not affected, so he injected it in.


    "Condense!"


    He commanded with a thought.


    Inside the gigantic spherical array formation, a wisp of Heaven and Earth powers condensed into a flickering flying sword imbued with sword intent.


    "Break!"


    Qin Yun stared at the stone ball.


    The Heaven and Earth powered flying sword instantly shot forward and struck the unadorned ball. It quivered slightly but was not damaged in any way.


    "The standard required of sword intent is truly high." Qin Yun immediately calmed his mind and immersed himself in a frenetic and passionate state of mind. Yi Xiao held her breath and watched, afraid of disturbing him.


    Qin Yun''s eyes seemed to have burning flames within.


    "Samsara!"


    Boom!


    The Heaven and Earth powered flying sword''s might clearly escalated, and brought with it frenetic and passionate emotions that went beyond life and death. It was a strike that would not be affected by anything, even one''s life. Yi Xiao could even sense the rich feelings contained within! If Bright Moon Over River and Dual Flight were said to have rich feelings, even those could not match Samsara at all. It had an intense way of infecting anyone who witnessed it, causing their hearts to waver.


    "Peng!" The Heaven and Earth powered flying sword struck the stone ball. It vibrated in response and produced a faint and crisp crack.


    At the same moment the crack appeared, the massive sphere array formation dissipated. Even the exterior world''s restriction array formation and vast white array blasts stopped operating.


    And the base beneath it began to rise!


    "Boom!"


    Beneath the base was a black box.


    "I actually did not sense it with my sword intent domain? Even now, I can''t sense it." Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Is this Outer Realm Meteorite Metal?" Yi Xiao was stunned when she looked at it carefully. "The material used for this box is an Outer Realm Meteorite Metal. It''s no wonder you can''t sense it."


    "It''s said that Outer Realm Meteorite Metal is nearly indestructible. Even at my present strength, I would not be able to damage it in any way. Typically, it is used to smith a second or third-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun picked up the black box. "Now, it''s only used as a treasure chest. This chest''s value is worth nearly a third-grade Dharma treasure."


    The black box was not locked, nor were there any array formation seals. A gentle lift was enough to open the lid.


    In it was a Cosmic Bag.


    At the same moment, the box was opened, a projection appeared with a hum above the black box. It was a white-haired black-robed elder.


    "It''s Elder Sword," said Yi Xiao. The both of them had buried Elder Sword''s corpse so she naturally recognized him.


    In the phantom projection in mid-air, the white-haired black-robed elder, Elder Sword was gently caressing the pile of manuals around him. He said, "Despite cultivating for five centuries, I will ultimately reduce to dust. I can''t accept it. I sought manuals all over the world, searching for manuals that had anything to do with the sword immortal lineage. I even gathered the manuals of the talisman amulet lineage and other lineages that are capable of condensing the Essence Soul. Scenic Mountain Sect was also once a Daoist sacred land. I came here in search of manuals and only found a few. The most core manuals have been protected very well by Immortal Scenic Yang. Even though he has been dead for so many years, the array formation he left behind remains uncrackable by me."


    "I eventually failed. The Dharmic formulations I came up with were ultimately wrong. My Golden Core shattered during my final attempt, so I cannot last much longer."


    "Only by figuring out the Beam Transformation Art and gaining insights into my sword intents do you have the right to learn my seven great sword arts."


    "To be able to grasp seven sword intents, you are already considered a genius among Connate Golden Core sword immortals."


    "For you to break the stone ball, it means you have gone as far as touching the Sword Intent Paramount realm¡­ By doing so, you barely qualify to continue my unfinished business," Elder Sword said. "I did not believe in fate my entire life. I believe that man can defy the heavens! Even though I knew that sword immortals lacked a Dharmic formulation that could condense an Essence Soul to become immortal, I was confident that I could create one."


    "I was invincible for three centuries but I ultimately failed to create it."


    "Now, I''ll hand it over to you! The manuals I gathered might be of some use to you." Elder Sword coughed and cupped his mouth. There were blood stains on the corner of his mouth as he looked up at them. "I failed but I hope you can accomplish it. If you can''t, perhaps a junior can accomplish it in the future. My sword immortal lineage has to create an Elder Sword Dharmic formulation after all. We have to truly be able to accomplish the saying that ''a single sword can destroy all Dharma,'' and turn up our noses at the world!"


    Following that, the projection faded away.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao fell silent.


    "Elder Sword has an eccentric personality, but he is only one of the few peerless sword immortals in history," said Yi Xiao. "Perhaps many powerful sword immortals have done the same. They were unwilling to accept it. After all, they could even leapfrog realms to defeat immortals and fiendcelestials, to the point of even killing a fiendcelestial. But due to the lack of Dharmic formulations, they halt at the Connate Golden Core."


    Qin Yun nodded. "To attempt to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation out of nothing with the strength at the Connate Golden Core realm is indeed inexplicably difficult. Seniors who had grasped Sword Dao all failed eventually, but I''m still young. There''s still a lot of time."


    "Brother Yun, you will definitely create it," said Yi Xiao.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    Despite saying so, he knew in his heart how difficult it was.


    To Qin Yun, stepping into the Connate Golden Core was just a matter of time. However, to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage? There had been quite a number of people that grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm in all of history. There were even some who were more monstrous than Qin Yun. They were either freaks of nature at a young age or became accomplished at an older age. Each one of them dazzled an era but they eventually perished.


    If sword immortals could not form their Essence Soul and have everlasting youth, they could at best live for five centuries! Therefore, no matter how illustrious a sword immortal was, they would eventually turn into history.


    "Brother Yun, take a look and see what treasures Elder Sword left behind," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Alright." Qin Yun opened the Cosmic Bag and probed it with his psyche. He gave a look of surprise.


    "What happened?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "It naturally cannot be compared to Immortal Scenic Yang but it''s not bad either." Qin Yun stretched his hand in to grab out a bracelet. It had seven beads on it. "This is the most precious item. It should be Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    "Elder Sword''s flying sword?" Yi Xiao looked at it.


    Qin Yun wore the bracelet on his left hand and said with a smile, "Each of these beads is a sword ball."


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Seven beads flew out, transforming into seven flying swords.


    Each of the seven flying swords was a second-grade flying sword! There was the dazzling Blazing Sun Sword, the invisible Formless Sword, as well as the dreamlike Starlight Sword. The rest were named: Starlight, Desecrated Moon, Blazing Sun, Profound Theory, Heavenly Change, Dark Shadow, and Formless. The seven flying swords were of extraordinary might and even hinted to be a part of one.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Condense."


    The seven flying swords rapidly assembled to form a complete flying sword.


    "The rumors were true," said Yi Xiao immediately. "Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword can truly disassemble into seven, and the seven can be assembled to form one."


    "A first-grade flying sword." The hazy flying sword suffused terrifying killing intent.


    Qin Yun injected it with Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers and felt that the entire flying sword gave him immense pressure. He could control it only by injecting large amounts of the Dharmic powers.


    "Can you control it?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yes," Qin Yun nodded. "However, it''s rather tough doing so. It drains my Dharmic powers at a rate ten times that of my Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword was only at the third-grade but it could produce the strength of a first-grade flying sword.


    The first-grade flying sword was not his Intrinsic Flying Sword after all. With Qin Yun''s Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers still somewhat lacking, it drained him greatly.


    "I have heard of people controlling a second-grade Dharma treasure at the Connate True Core realm. There are such people in the Divine Firmament Chapter," exclaimed Yi Xiao. "However, to control a first-grade Dharma treasure at the Connate True Core realm is truly rare. At least, no one in the current generation of my Divine Firmament Chapter can do it."


    "Don''t you see one now?" said Qin Yun with a smile. Following that, he commanded with his mind.


    The hazy flying sword split into seven flying swords and flew to his wrist and bound together into a bracelet.


    "What other precious items are there in the Cosmic Bag?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "This is the only first-grade Dharma treasure. The rest are good too but they are somewhat inferior," Qin Yun said with a smile. "But for me, the most valuable items are probably these manuals. It is said that Elder Sword had offended many immortals and fiendcelestials in order to amass all these manuals."


    Some sword immortal sects had once been stormed and vanquished of their heritage.


    Their manuals naturally landed in the hands of the fiendish demons. Elder Sword had once attacked them and even fought a fiendcelestial to retrieve some of the manuals.


    "I''ll read these manuals when I have the time. Let''s pack up and leave this place," said Qin Yun.


    "Yea."


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    Back when the stone ball cracked, the array formations outside came to a halt. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao first put away all the array treasures before returning to their residence to begin packing.


    "We are leaving." Yi Xiao felt somewhat reluctant to leave as she packed all the decorations in the rooms.


    It had been more than three years.


    This was the place where she married Qin Yun and lived for three plus years with no one to disturb them.


    "Let''s go. We have to exit this place after all. If we were to have children in the future, we can''t let our children stay here, right?" consoled Qin Yun. He looked at his surroundings and felt a little unwilling to leave. All the equipment and tools around them were constructed by him and Yi Xiao.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "Brother Yun, we have been together for three years but there''s nothing from my womb."


    "Both of us are Connate cultivators. Having children is difficult, to begin with. There''s no rush," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    The two packed the items one by one and put away their daily items.


    Yi Xiao stood in the garden and looked at the distant stone chamber, still feeling a sense of longing.


    "Let''s go," urged Qin Yun.


    Only then did Yi Xiao follow Qin Yun. The couple walked through the hall and into the dark passageway once again.


    Now that the array formation was gone, they could easily walk out.


    ¡­


    Inside the immortal abode, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao no longer encountered any more danger, perhaps because the Numinous treasure and the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure had been taken away. The couple quickly arrived at the immortal abode''s main entrance.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked alongside each other along a stone-paved path.


    "We are about to exit. I wonder how my family is now." Qin Yun smiled and looked at Yi Xiao. "When the time comes, you still need to meet my parents."


    Yi Xiao felt somewhat nervous as she whispered, "We haven''t managed to have children over the past three years. Would Father and Mother be unhappy?"


    "An ugly wife cannot avoid meeting her in-laws," joked Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao could not help but say, "Ugly wife?"


    This joke also relaxed her nervous emotions.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "There''s no need to worry about children. We are both cultivators, so there''s no need for us to be tied up with such things."


    The two chatted as they walked and soon, they saw the towering mountain door in the distance.


    "Rosy Dawn Door." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at the mountain door. It was the entrance they had used to enter. Once out, they would be out of the entire immortal abode.


    Outside the Rosy Dawn Door, the Scenic Mountain Sect had sent two Daoists to watch it.


    "Quick look." One of the Daoists said as he pointed towards the mountain door.


    "What is it?" Another Daoist turned his head out of curiosity and saw an immortal couple walking on a stone-paved path. The Daoist widened his eyes in disbelief. "Qin-Qin-Qin-¡­ Qin Yun? The both of them came out alive?"


    "Qin Yun and Yi Xiao are out. They came out alive."


    "Quick! Quick! Inform the sect!"


    The two Daoists were extremely shocked.


    Qin Yun, who had taken the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron with him to save Yi Xiao without returning, had been thought of as an overly foolish sword immortal. Now, he had come out together with Yi Xiao!


    The news was enough to shock the entire world!


    (End of Volume)

 171 Return Causes a Storm

    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood in front of the Rosy Dawn Door and could not help but turn their heads to look back.


    "After coming out, we won''t be able to enter again," said Yi Xiao softly.


    "The six tokens are currently in the hands of the Scenic Mountain Sect." Qin Yun turned to look at the distant immortal abode as well. "Xiaoxiao, if you would like to return to take a look, we can just ask the Scenic Mountain Sect for help. Now, the immortal abode no longer has any important treasures. It shouldn''t be difficult to request entry."


    "It doesn''t matter even if we don''t come back." Yi Xiao turned to look at Qin Yun. "Brother Yun, let''s go. Let''s step out."


    "Alright, out we go."


    The two took a step and passed through the Rosy Dawn Door.


    The Rosy Dawn Door''s array formation activated. There was a spatial layer that disappeared when Qin Yun and Yi Xiao took the step forward. When the couple came out, the spatial layer condensed once again.


    They were out.


    Within the mountain door, it was an otherworldly paradise, with no one to disturb them. It was a world that belonged to the two of them.


    Beyond the mountain door, it was where the mortal world with all its bustle was.


    "Young Master Qin, Miss Yi." The two Daoists that manned the entrance bowed immediately.


    One of the Daoists said with a smile, "Congratulations to the two of you. We heard that Young Master Qin and Miss Yi had entered an array formation and because it was too powerful, no one dared to enter. No one expected that the both of you would come out by yourselves after three years."


    "There was a bit of luck involved," said Qin Yun with a smile. "May I know if your esteemed sect retrieved the manuals?"


    "We retrieved it." The Daoist was beaming as well.


    Out of curiosity, Yi Xiao asked, "Who was the one who obtained the numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet?"


    "It was obtained by the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Young Master Zhu."


    "It''s not that Lunatic Zhu but Young Master Eighth Zhu."


    The two Daoists answered.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked into each other''s eyes and saw shock in them.


    "Eighth Zhu?"


    "Just like back when the first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet automatically entered your hands, the Numinous treasure, Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet is probably fated with Eighth Zhu," said Qin Yun wistfully.


    Yi Xiao could not help but chuckle. "In that case, doesn''t it mean that Ji Lie did not obtain any powerful treasures?"


    Qin Yun nodded with a laugh.


    At this moment¡ª


    A distance away, a cotton-clothed middle-aged man walked out of the void. He had his pants and sleeves rolled up and he hung a fish basket on his back, making him resemble a fisherman. When the fisherman walked over, Yi Xiao immediately greeted, "Patriarch."


    Qin Yun could not help but be shocked. Patriarch? The Yi family''s patriarch?


    That was one of the few top figures in the world. There were only a handful of family clans in the world that could match the Yi family.


    "Greetings Senior, I am Qin Yun." Qin Yun bowed respectfully as well.


    The fisherman strolled over and in a few steps, arrived in front of Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. As he looked at the two of them, he smiled and nodded slightly. "Good. I never expected that the both of you would come out so soon. Qin Yun, it''s not bad that you risked your life to save Yi Xiao."


    "Xiaoxiao is my wife, so it''s only natural I do so," said Qin Yun. Yi Xiao was taken aback. He had announced their marriage so directly? Although she was shocked, Yi Xiao still felt sweet delight.


    "Wife?" Patriarch Yi was taken aback as he looked at Qin Yun before looking at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao said meekly, "Patriarch, Brother Yun and I were trapped within the immortal abode and were unsure as to when we would come out. Therefore, we got married inside the immortal abode."


    Patriarch Yi was startled momentarily before he laughed out loudly. "Good, good, good. Kiddo Qin Yun, if you wanted to marry Yi Xiao before the immortal abode, I would have had to test you. But now, you have met the requirements to marry Yi Xiao."


    "Thank you, Senior." Qin Yun revealed a look of delight. Having received Patriarch Yi''s approval, no one from the Yi family would dare oppose his marriage.


    However, even if the Yi family had opposed it, the couple would have been bent on being together.


    It was still for the best that they had received approval.


    "Patriarch." Although Yi Xiao was delighted, she could not help but ask, "Have you been on this island the past three years?"


    Patriarch Yi gave a mild chuckle and said, "I have been touring the world anyway. For the past three years, I have been leading the life of a fisherman. And it''s quite nice too, isn''t it? Since the both of you are out, where do you plan on going next?"


    "The Inspector Heavenly Alliance," replied Qin Yun.


    "I guessed so." Patriarch Yi nodded. "In that case, let me escort the both of you there."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao gave their thanks immediately.


    "Your Yi family''s patriarch has been on this island all this while. Xiaoxiao, it seems he thinks very highly of you." Qin Yun said through a voice transmission.


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    "Let''s go."


    Patriarch Yi immediately brought the couple to depart on a cloud.


    ¡­


    The cloud flew at an extremely fast speed.


    "Patriarch," said Yi Xiao softly. "Second Uncle died in the array formation."


    "His transmission mark has long dissipated," said Patriarch Yi regretfully. "With my understanding of Scenic Yang, there shouldn''t have been any danger in the immortal abode, but who knew¡­"


    "These are the remains of Second Uncle. We found it after we exited." Yi Xiao respectfully handed it over. Next, she flipped her hand and produced another Cosmic Bag. "These are the treasures Second Uncle and I obtained in the immortal abode. It includes the first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet."


    Patriarch Yi gave Qin Yun a glance and said with a smile, "I heard about it. If not for Qin Yun''s help, this first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet might have been snatched away."


    "Senior, I''m only better at preserving my life with a flying sword," said Qin Yun humbly.


    "I would not take advantage of juniors like you." Patriarch Yi nodded. "Let''s do it this way. Are you planning on selling the Golden Core Cauldron you obtained at the Inspector Heavenly Alliance?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "Yes."


    The Inspector Heavenly Alliance was comprised of various factions. It could allow the imperial government, Numinous Treasure Mountain, the Divine Firmament Chapter, and other factions to vie for it.


    "You have obtained too many treasures that even some immortals and fiendcelestials are moved by them," Patriarch Yi said. "You require a powerful defensive array formation. I will help your Qin family set up a Nine Heavens Astral River Array."


    Qin Yun was immediately overjoyed when he heard that. "Thank you, Senior."


    Yi Xiao was happy as well. "Thank you, Patriarch."


    The Nine Heavens Astral River Array was created by Patriarch Yi himself. It was long famous.


    Just the treasures and materials needed to set up the array could probably match half the first-grade Capital Heaven Talisman Amulet''s value. Besides, it was set up by Patriarch Yi himself.


    "Women tend to align with their husbands." Patriarch Yi could not help but sigh when he saw Yi Xiao''s delighted look.


    Yi Xiao''s face blushed immediately. Qin Yun also laughed in response.


    "Kiddo Qin Yun, with your talent, it wouldn''t be difficult to establish a top sect in the future," said Patriarch Yi. "Even if you do not establish one, you would be able to let your family thrive for generations. But now, you are in the most dangerous stage. You are young and you haven''t amassed enough strength but you have many treasures on you! Fiendish demons will target you, so to establish a sect or to let your family thrive, it will need a lot of thought and preparation."


    "Yes, I have thought about it too." Qin Yun nodded. "Senior, with you setting up the Nine Heavens Astral River Array, I will also buy more treasures after selling the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron."


    "Oh? My Divine Firmament Chapter would like that Golden Core Cauldron as well. Might I know what treasures you would like to exchange for the Golden Core Cauldron?" said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "If you tell me ahead of time, my Divine Firmament Chapter would be able to make the necessary preparations."


    When Qin Yun heard that, he immediately answered, "One of them is an array formation and the second would be a Yellow-scarved Strongman. Of course, having something that matches a Yellow-scarved Strongman guard my Qin family would do as well."


    "Yellow-scarved Strongman?" When Patriarch Yi heard that, he joked, "You sure dare to dream. Yellow-scarved Strongmen are absolutely the best defenders of an entrance. However, a Yellow-scarved Strongman isn''t worth less than a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    "I only wish for the Yellow-scarved Strongman to guard my Qin family for a hundred years. There would not be any use for it after that," replied Qin Yun.


    "If that''s the case, I can think of a way." Patriarch Yi nodded. "You mention that as long as it''s a defensive force that matches a Yellow-scarved Strongman?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    Phew.


    The three of them continued flying.


    Qin Yun also obtained a message. He flipped his hand and produced the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    "Qin Yun, my young friend." The Inspect Heavenly Token projected a phantom who was none other than Palatial Lord Essence Charm. "Congratulations to the two of you for coming out safe and sound. You have relieved me as well. Are you heading to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance now?"


    "Yes, I''m heading to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. After all, various human experts are gathered in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance," said Qin Yun with a smile. "What is it? Does the Scenic Mountain Sect also want the Golden Core Cauldron?"


    "No, not at all. My Scenic Mountain Sect has no thoughts on it. Even if we buy it, there''s no one to use it." Palatial Lord Essence Charm answered immediately. At present, the Scenic Mountain Sect had only one Essence Soul immortal. He wasn''t adept at alchemy so what was the point of buying the Golden Core Cauldron at all costs? Now, the Scenic Mountain Sect had invested all their precious items to develop the sect. After retrieving numerous manuals, they naturally needed to develop the sect on a large scale and nurture stronger disciples. With a few more Essence Soul immortals, they could look forward to the day of them becoming a Daoist sacred ground again.


    The two exchanged a few words casually before ending the transmission.


    ******


    Po Prefecture, Divine Firmament Chapter.


    In the deep depths of a palatial hall that was guarded heavily by array formations, a middle-aged Daoist wearing a Daoist robe and a tall headdress was sitting cross-legged. There were baffling charms lingering around him with starry skies faintly appearing. The stars seemed to revolve around him.


    The middle-aged Daoist frowned slightly as he opened his eyes.


    Hum!


    A phantom appeared beside him. It was Patriarch Yi.


    "Master," Patriarch Yi said.


    "Yi Yan, what''s the matter?" The middle-aged Daoist said nonchalantly. He was the Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang. He had perfected the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma independently, making it the best Lightning Dharma in the world! Under his leadership, the Divine Firmament Chapter also became a Daoist sacred land.


    "Master, weren''t you interested in the Golden Core Cauldron?" Patriarch Yi said very politely. "That Qin Yun cares about his Qin family the most, so he is selling the Golden Core Cauldron for one, an array formation and two, a Yellow-scarved Strongman. Of course, the Yellow-scarved Strongman just needs to protect his Qin family for a hundred years."


    The middle-aged Daoist''s eyes were indifferent but gradually, it restored a little of its luster. He gave Patriarch Yi a more amiable look. "A Yellow-scarved Strongman?


    "One that matches a Yellow-scarved Strongman in strength would do too, as long as it can protect the Qin family for a hundred years," Patriarch Yi said immediately."We can send some Dao soldiers. Master, you are skilled in alchemy. Our Divine Firmament Chapter also has two of the three volumes of the Golden Core Outer Pill recipe. As long as you have the Golden Core Cauldron, there will be a chance of you refining the Golden Core Outer Pills."


    "Indeed, the Golden Core Cauldron is an extremely good cauldron." The middle-aged Daoist nodded with a smile. "As for the Yellow-scarved Strongman, I happen to have one. It can be given to the Qin family to guard it for a hundred years."


    "Master, you have a Yellow-scarved Strongman?" Patriarch Yi was astonished.


    "I managed to capture and refine one two hundred years ago," said the middle-aged Daoist.


    "Congratulations, Ancestral Master! Other than Numinous Treasure Mountain, our Divine Firmament Chapter is now capable of refining Yellow-scarved Strongmen." Patriarch Yi was delighted.


    "It''s nothing much." The middle-aged Daoist shook his head.


    ¡­


    Within Myriad Temple, the coiled dark red-scaled flood dragon''s dragon beard was flailing in the water. His eyes emitted a look of astonishment. "I never expected Qin Yun and Yi Xiao to come out on their own."


    With that, Myriad Temple rapidly informed all parties. Humans, demons, and the Four Seas'' Water race all received the news: Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had come out of the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode!

 172 Band of Fiendish Demons

    Chapter 172: Band of Fiendish Demons


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    There was a mountain range that stretched out a hundred and fifty kilometers named Wolf Mountain in Qian Prefecture. The countless demons in the mountains made cultivators afraid to enter. Even Connate Golden Core cultivators would avoid the place.


    Deep in the mountains.


    A gargantuan silver wolf lay prone on the ground. It overlooked its children and grandchildren in the mountain''s vicinity. It was about a thousand feet long and it was massive in size. If it stood up, it would be as tall as the mountain beside it! The gargantuan silver wolf was an infamous and horrifying great demon, Patriarch Wolf Mountain. Its name alone was enough to make the imperial government''s troops avoid it like the plague. It struck horror into the hearts of numerous cultivators.


    Logically speaking, there were many great demons in the world, with a few great demons wreaking havoc in each prefecture. However, there were few that could be labeled as infamous. Patriarch Wolf Mountain was one of them.


    He was also part of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' Cloudfiend Mountain line, one of the most terrifying great demons at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "Oh?" The gargantuan silver wolf''s eyes flashed a look of surprise as it said, "Grand Dominance County''s Qin Yun has exited the immortal abode?"


    Its deep voice echoed everywhere.


    "Yes," replied the other voice. "He had obtained the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron. It is believed that many great fiendish demons would covet it. Even the fiendish demons of the Four Seas'' Water race might take action! The Jiang and Qian Prefectures are our Cloudfiend Mountain''s territories. If Qin Yun''s treasures are ultimately snatched away by the other fiendish demons, it would be a smack in our Cloudfiend Mountain''s face. Furthermore, a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron¡­ Haha, Junior Brother, I believe you would be moved by it too."


    The gargantuan silver wolf stood up. Its massive body was as tall as the mountain peak beside it.


    It made many wolf demons a distance away look at the Patriarch in awe.


    Phew.


    As its body phased away, the gargantuan silver wolf transformed into a silver-haired elder.


    "Just me alone?" Patriarch Wolf Mountain asked.


    "You are permitted to use six great demons of my Cloudfiend Mountain. Upon completion, fifty percent of the treasures will be handed to Cloudfiend Mountain. Thirty percent will be yours and the remaining twenty percent will be given to the six." The voice continued with a voice transmission.


    "Alright." Patriarch Wolf Mountain nodded.


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain knew that it was very rare that Cloudfiend Mountain permitted him to use six great demons.


    The imperial government was considered the strongest human faction. It arranged for every prefecture to have at least two Connate Golden Cores presiding over it! The northern borders and other strongholds also had mighty figures presiding over them but the imperial capital had even more mighty figures. The imperial government''s Connate Golden Core experts numbered about eighty! It was also the faction with the most number of Connate Golden Cores.


    As for the three great Daoist sacred lands like Numinous Treasure Mountain, Divine Firmament Chapter, Primordial Chaos Sect, each one of them failed to match the imperial government but the three added could easily overshadow the imperial government.


    There were the Buddhist movement and the nineteen top sects in the world! Furthermore, there were itinerant cultivators, etc.


    The human forces were still very powerful.


    As for Cloudfiend Mountain of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, it was greatly inferior to the imperial government but it also had more than twenty Connate Golden Core great demons.


    "Swoosh."


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain stood in his spot as phantom images appeared in front of him. There were a total of six phantom images, and each one displayed a great fiendish demon.


    "Patriarch Wolf Mountain?" The six great demons were somewhat astonished.


    "Six factions entered the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode. The treasures the royal family, the Bai and Zhu families received are already in the hands of Essence Soul immortals. It is said that Yue Chapter''s Deacon Yuan has obtained a first-grade flying sword, White Dew. However, the Yue Chapter invited an Essence Soul immortal to escort them back to Yue Chapter. The Yue Chapter has lasted since ancient times to present day and the array formations that defend it is not something we can destroy," said Patriarch Wolf Mountain. "There is only one faction, Qin Yun''s party. Their party was lucky enough to obtain the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron! Qin Yun had entered an array formation with it to save a particular Miss Yi Xiao and were trapped in the immortal abode for three years until today. They have just come out."


    "Oh?"


    "He''s out?"


    The six great demons had long desired the treasures involved.


    "It is very likely he will sell the Golden Core Cauldron to the imperial government or the Daoist or Buddhist sacred lands. However, even if he sells it, he will still receive large amounts of treasures in return," Patriarch Wolf Mountain chortled. "As a junior, he lucked out and received so many treasures. Even after living for so long, I haven''t even obtained that many treasures. This fiendish body of mine still requires more treasures for cultivation. This time, all of you are to aid me to kill that Qin Yun together and snatch the treasures¡­ Naturally, it will be split according to our Cloudfiend Mountain''s rules. The more you contribute, the more you will be given. Of course, half of the treasures have to be given to the fiendcelestials."


    "Okay."


    "It still has to be handed over to the fiendcelestials." These Connate Golden Core great demons were somewhat displeased but it was still acceptable.


    At their level, they could put on airs and negotiate with Cloudfiend Mountain but most of the time, they would still defer to it.


    "Triclops, you are responsible for investigating every action taken by Qin Yun. You can also study the treasure halo on him," instructed Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    "Okay."


    Out of the six great demons, a thin three-eyed old man, who held a wooden crutch, said.


    "Nine Mountain. Grand Dominance is under your jurisdiction. I heard that you have had some conflict with Qin Yun," continued Patriarch Wolf Mountain. "You will have to do more of the work when it comes to gathering Qin Yun''s detailed information and strategy against him. After all, he''s from your territory."


    "Don''t worry. I am most aware of Qin Yun''s background." Nine Mountain Island Lord was dressed in a black robe. He had cold and austere eyes under his blood-colored brows. "I have almost investigated everything from the moment he was born up to now. With all of us joining forces this time, killing him is no different from killing a chicken."


    "Great!" Patriarch Wolf Mountain laughed loudly.


    "Nine Mountain, we will be depending on you when the time comes."


    "Nine Mountain had suffered quite a bit under the hands of Qin Yun." The other great demons added.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord was very strong. In the Jiang Prefecture, he was definitely one of the best among the great fiendish demons.


    Even among the great demons of Cloudfiend Mountain, there was only one who would dare claim superiority over Nine Mountain Island Lord¡ªPatriarch Wolf Mountain!


    "Qin Yun? Hmph. You are dead for acquiring so many treasures without strength." Under Nine Mountain Island''s blood-colored brows, his eyes were filled with cold intent.


    He was very aware that among the seven great demons present, each one of them was skilled in a particular domain. As for Patriarch Wolf Mountain, he was even more horrifying! Nine Mountain Island Lord knew that even if the six of them joined forces to fight Patriarch Wolf Mountain, all they could muster was scampering for their lives. Therefore, the six of them would only receive twenty percent share of the treasures! Patriarch Wolf Mountain himself would take thirty percent.


    ¡­


    "According to the information provided by Myriad Temple, this Qin Yun has no master or sect. He has no backers."


    "The treasures he obtained should all be his."


    "Hehe, Transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron? I do not need all of it. Just getting ten or twenty percent of his treasures would be sufficient to further improve my strength.


    In the distant northern Nether Prefecture.


    A black cloud was flying rapidly but it was made out of a dense flock of crows. Countless crows were flying and hidden within, a gigantic phantom head appeared. It looked at the distant southern Jiang Prefecture and gave an odd cackle. "The Jiang and Qian Prefecture is Cloudfiend Mountain''s territory so it will definitely send powerful great demons. The other great demons would also be tempted. When the time comes, I''ll fish in troubled waters. Hehehe, when it comes to fishing in troubled waters, who can match me, Monarch Black Crow?"


    Monarch Black Crow was infamous with his foul reputation.


    In terms of strength, he was a great fiendish demon considered average at the Connate Golden Core realm. However, his flying escape arts were extremely fast. His body could disintegrate into countless crows and almost impossible to kill. He was the hardest to deal with and he would usually partake in anything that had great perks awaiting.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun? Transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Golden Core Cauldron?"


    Deep in the South Sea.


    Inside a huge undersea cavern, there was a massive black snake swimming. It quickly reached the sea''s surface and transformed into an odd-looking youth with a tattooed face. The youth stroked his little mustache and chuckled. "How can a young cultivator like you have the right to monopolize such a powerful treasure? I think it''s best you let me bear some of the burdens."


    Following that, his body suddenly transformed into a black flash of light that whizzed into the sky as he rapidly headed for the north where the human continent was.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were riding a cloud towards the Inspector Heavenly Alliance while being escorted by Patriarch Yi.


    While en route, many great demons in the world were tempted by his purported treasures. They began to rush over from all corners of the world.


    "We have arrived at the Inspector Heavenly Alliance," said Patriarch Yi.


    "It took less than an hour." Qin Yun looked at the Inspector Heavenly Alliance sitting above the clouds and said wistfully.


    "Kiddo Qin Yun, although I flew rather fast, I believe that many factions in the world know that you have exited the immortal abode." Patriarch Yi looked at Qin Yun. "It''s not easy acquiring treasures but harder it is defending them."


    "Senior, I understand," replied Qin Yun.

 173 Inside the Inspector Heavenly Alliance

    Chapter 173: Inside the Inspector Heavenly Alliance


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    There were beautiful immortal palaces and buildings above the clouds with a thin lingering mist.


    After Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Patriarch Yi landed, a gray-robed man rushed to welcome them from afar.


    "It''s safest inside the Inspector Heavenly Alliance," said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "Both of you should take a rest. I believe many people will quickly come to you." With that said, Patriarch Yi walked into the distance and in a few steps, entered an ancient palace.


    "Inspector Heavenly Ambassador Qin," greeted the gray-robed man warmly when he rushed to them.


    "Yan Fu, help me find a place to stay," requested Qin Yun.


    "Alright, please follow me." Yan Fu led the way. The Inspector Heavenly Alliance had many empty residences since Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors only stayed here occasionally.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked alongside each other.


    "This is actually my first time to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance." Yi Xiao watched in amazement. "It''s really beautiful, as beautiful as the immortal realms described in legends."


    "It wouldn''t take long for you to become an Inspector Heavenly Ambassador either," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    With the gray-robed man leading them, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked into the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. They attracted the attention of many Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors. Although few Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors stayed there long term, there were still many present due to the sheer number of Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors from the nineteen prefectures in the entire world.


    "It''s Qin Yun."


    "He came out of the immortal abode alive? Wasn''t it said that he entered with a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure to save that Miss Yi, never to return?"


    "I just received the news. The both of them just came out of the immortal abode and here they are, at the Inspector Heavenly Alliance."


    "This Qin Yun sure is a man of feelings."


    "However, he obtained a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. It''s not easy acquiring treasures but harder it is defending them. Perhaps, many great fiendish demons are already targeting him."


    People discussed in whispers from afar.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were walking when suddenly, a red-dressed figure flew over. "Qin Yun, Yi Xiao."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked over. It was a beautiful red-dressed woman.


    "Daoist Red Jade?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao recognized her. She was the one that had presided over Grand Dominance County with Palatial Lord Essence Charm years ago.


    Daoist Red Jade chuckled and said, "Congratulations to the two of you for safely coming out of the immortal abode. The heavens really do bless loving couples."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged smiling looks.


    "Back in Grand Dominance, I felt the both of you were a perfect match when I saw the two of you. Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, for you to risk your life to enter the array formation, wow. It makes my heart pound. Unfortunately, no one has done so for me," said Daoist Red Jade with a smile.


    "I have long heard that many fellow Daoists yearn to be Dao partners with you, Daoist Red Jed. Unfortunately, none of them have caught your eye," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "It''s just a bunch of lascivious men," said Daoist Red Jade as she shook her head.


    With that, Daoist Red Jade warned, "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, I''ve heard that your present strength probably matches typical Connate Golden Cores. I''m very impressed as well. However, you have obtained a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure! If any typical Connate Golden Core expert obtains a first-grade Dharma treasure, they might encounter all sorts of danger. It''s also very common for them to be killed for their treasures. So there''s no need to elaborate on your transcendent-grade Dharma treasure! Perhaps, the number of enemies you will be attracting will be numerous."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Yes, with fellow Daoist Qin Yun''s intelligence, how would you not know? However, treasures can change a person. Sometimes, abandoning something might be the wisest decision," advised Daoist Red Jade. "After all, the enemies you attract might not only be limited to fiendish demons."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao felt their hearts skip a beat.


    That''s right.


    Treasures could change a person. Although humans were relatively united, it did not mean that all of them were good.


    "I''m just blabbering." Daoist Red Jade chuckled while covering her mouth. "I''m only an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador and have no right to embroil myself in this. Alright, I won''t disturb the two of you anymore."


    With that said, she left.


    "Fellow Daoist Red Jade said so much only out of concern," said Yi Xiao through a voice transmission. "Qin Yun, although your strength has greatly improved, the number of enemies you would attract would ultimately be numerous. You have to be careful. It''s easy to dodge an open thrust of a spear but difficult to guard against an arrow shot in the dark."


    "Yea, I know." Qin Yun nodded. He was not a hotheaded person. When he roamed the world when he was fifteen, he had seen the dark nature of humans. In fact, in terms of the dark nature of humans, some ordinary mortals were in no way inferior to cultivators.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao took up residence in a quiet compound in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "Knock. Knock. Knock." Door knocks were heard.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sat at a stone table in the yard. With a wave of a hand, the door opened.


    Outside the door was a white-haired elder. He said with a smile, "Greetings my young friends, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. I''m Wang Han."


    "Grand General Wang." Qin Yun immediately stood up.


    Wang Han had once presided over the northern borders where he had been commander-in-chief. He was a Grand General of the northern borders! Of course, he had already retired. Although he was not related to Qin Yun''s direct superior, Old General Wang Yong, he had a good relationship with Wang Yong. Wang Yong was only of average strength and he was merely a defending general of a particular mountain pass. His position greatly deferred from Wang Han. Wang Han himself was a Connate Golden Core realm expert that was part of the Godfiend lineage.


    "I''ve long heard of your name, Qin Yun. I''ve finally gotten a chance to meet you," said Wang Han with a smile.


    "Grand General Wang, please have a seat," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "I''m no longer a Grand General anymore, just an old retiree," said Wang Han with a smile. "I tour the world and would slay and rid fiends of there''s a chance. Haha."


    Qin Yun also knew. Wang Han had spent most of his life in the war campaign and he was more than four hundred years old. The imperial government had allowed this Grand General to have a good rest.


    Qin Yun was very impressed by this Grand General.


    "My purpose here is to do a favor for the imperial government," said Wang Han with a smile. "They know that I happen to be in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance and engaged me to be a spokesperson. They wish that you would sell the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, the Golden Core Cauldron, to the imperial government. Of course, feel free to inform us of your conditions. The imperial government will do its best to satisfy you. Also¡­ I''ve heard that you had a little conflict with Ji Lie in the immortal abode. On this matter, we hope you do not take offense and as a result, show animosity towards the imperial government."


    Qin Yun shook his head and said with a smile. "I was once in the northern borders. I also know that the imperial government has men all over the world. There are all kinds of people and it''s impossible to demand that every one of them is good. Besides, the imperial government is doing its best to fend off the fiendish demons."


    "It''s good that you understand." Wang Han nodded with a smile.


    "However¡­" Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and said, "Grand General Wang, let me do the introductions. This is my wife, Yi Xiao."


    Wang Han was astonished. "Wife? Haha, congratulations!"


    Qin Yun said helplessly, "The Yi family is my wife''s parental family. The Divine Firmament Chapter also wishes to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron, so I can''t just declare that I''m selling it straight to the imperial government."


    Wang Han said immediately, "Don''t sell it directly to the Divine Firmament Chapter. Let''s make it fair and square. It should be sold to whoever offers the most treasures."


    "That''s right. Fair and square." Qin Yun nodded.


    "It''s good that it will be fair." Wang Han asked, "Might I ask what sort of treasures are you requesting for?"


    "Actually, I''ll be informing all parties in the future. I''m just informing you first, Grand General Wang," said Qin Yun. "First, it will be an array formation. It has to be able to perfectly fuse with the Nine Heavens Astral River Array. Second, it will be a Yellow-scarved Strongman or something that matches a Yellow-scarved Strongman in strength. They will have to guard my Qin family for a hundred years. These are the two most important conditions."


    "A Yellow-scarved Strongman?" Wang Han frowned slightly but he still nodded. "I will inform the imperial government. Alright, I won''t disturb the two of you any longer."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao immediately stood up and walked him out.


    ¡­


    After the imperial government''s Grand General Wang''s visit, spokespeople from various factions came.


    Qin Yun naturally released the news of his requirements. He also made it clear that it would be done fair and square!


    "Have a Yellow-scarved Strongmen guard the Qin family for a hundred years? An array formation to fuse with the Nine Heavens Astral River Array? From the looks of it, Qin Yun''s treasures would not be given to an Essence Soul immortal after all but left for himself! That''s why he needs all of that to protect the Qin family."


    "If he offers it to an Essence Soul immortal and as a result, rid himself of any treasure, he would lack a treasure halo. It would prevent him from being targeted! However, he wants to monopolize the treasures. It doesn''t mean he can defend the treasures after obtaining it."


    "Regardless, be prepared and think of a way to win the Golden Core Cauldron over."


    All factions strived to make their preparations.


    Ordinary treasures were easily sought but transcendent-grade Dharma treasures like the Golden Core Cauldron would be gone if they missed it.


    ¡­


    The next day.


    In the tiny compound which Qin Yun and Yi Xiao took up temporary residence, guests from every corner of the world came. They were mostly from four factions¡ªthe three Daoist sacred lands and the imperial government. As for the Buddhist sacred land, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, it did not come. After all, alchemical methods using the Golden Core Cauldron were Daoist techniques.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, you came too? That Qin Yun mentioned that he wants Yellow-scarved Strongmen to guard his Qin family for a hundred years." A gentlemanly man with a flute by his waist said smilingly.


    "I know your Numinous Treasure Mountain has Yellow-scarved Strongmen. However, Qin Yun is considered a son-in-law of our Divine Firmament Chapter," said a red-haired middle-aged man. In the middle of his eyebrows was a mark that resembled a flame.


    "Qin Yun has also said that it will be done fair and square," countered a gentleman from Numinous Treasure Mountain.


    The both of them entered the tiny compound alongside each other.


    Inside the tiny compound, people from the Primordial Chaos Sect and the imperial government had already arrived.


    Qin Yun sat there to wait for all the guests. As for Yi Xiao, she temporarily hid away.

 174 Yellow-scarved Strongman

    Chapter 174: Yellow-scarved Strongman


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun watched the four delegates in front of him take their seats. Once they were all seated, they remained courteous with one another but there was still a detectable hostility between them.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, you previously mentioned that this decision would be made fair and square," said the gentleman.


    "Fellow Daoist Bai, rest assured." Qin Yun smiled. "Since everyone is here, shall we begin immediately?"


    "Let us begin."


    "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, feel free to make your requirements known."


    Everyone present was extremely solemn. They were shouldering the responsibility of representing an entire faction.


    Qin Yun removed the Cosmic Bag by his waist and stretched the bag''s mouth wide. Immediately, a massive bronze cauldron flew out. Qin Yun grabbed its legs and casually held the ten-foot-tall cauldron up. He swept his gaze at the four people and said, "Everyone, this is the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, the Golden Core Cauldron."


    The four trained their eyes on it. Although the Golden Core Cauldron appeared very ordinary at first glance, it became more profound the more they looked at it. All of its power was hidden within.


    "What a precious treasure."


    "It lives up to its name as a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    Everyone coveted it. An item like this was something only immortals could use. Only in such hands could excellent pills be refined.


    Following that, Qin Yun stuffed the Golden Core Cauldron back into the Cosmic Bag and tied it to his waist before saying, "Alright, since you have seen it, I''ll make it clear now. All four of you already know my conditions. First, it has to complement the Nine Heavens Astral River Array. The requirement of the array formation is not that high. Its worth does not exceed that of a first-grade Dharma treasure. Second, a Yellow-scarved Strongman has to guard my Qin family for a hundred years. If there are no Yellow-scarved Strongmen that qualify, an equivalent power must be assigned to guard my Qin family. The rest will be up to each one of you."


    "Once you have prepared your proposals, write them on a piece of paper," said Qin Yun with a smile. "When the time comes, I''ll choose the best of the four offers."


    "Write it on a piece of paper?" The four were taken aback.


    They originally thought they would make offers one after another.


    "After you finish writing, you are not allowed to change it. The Golden Core Cauldron will be given to whichever offer out of the four suits me the best," said Qin Yun. "Of course, if I find all of the offers to be insufficient, I can also choose not to sell it. I''ll give everyone ten minutes, is that enough?"


    "That''s enough."


    The four immediately began their preparations.


    All of them flipped their hands to produce a scroll. They cast a Dharma spell to prevent the others from probing and began to write on the scrolls the offers their factions could provide.


    "What a calculating one, this Qin Yun. He gave us only one chance and we can''t take it back. I can only write down all the things the imperial government is willing to offer." When the incumbent Seventh Imperial Uncle looked at the scroll, he wrote down the offer that had been determined ahead of time while simultaneously using his transmission treasure to contact the imperial government, in order to see if the imperial government was willing to offer more.


    The imperial government, Numinous Treasure Mountain, Primordial Chaos Sect, and Divine Firmament Chapter all did the same. As they wrote their offer, they contacted their superiors.


    Qin Yun slowly enjoyed his tea while he waited in silence.


    The imperial government''s Seventh Imperial Uncle was the first to stop. After he undid his Dharma spell, Qin Yun could see that his scroll had already been rolled up.


    Soon, Elder Floating Steel from the Primordial Chaos Sect stopped and undid his Dharma spell. He grinned at Qin Yun. He was by far the ugliest person present, his face covered with a beard that resembled steel needles. It made him look pugnacious.


    Daoist Bai from Numinous Treasure Mountain and Daoist Zhang from the Divine Firmament Chapter stopped nearly simultaneously and undid their Dharma spells.


    "It seems all four of you are done writing." Qin Yun smiled.


    "Yea." The four observed the rest beside them and nodded.


    "Everyone, please hand me the scrolls," said Qin Yun.


    The four solemnly passed their scrolls over.


    When Qin Yun received them, he waved his hand and immediately spread the four scrolls out in front of him. Qin Yun observed them carefully but he had also used a Dharma spell to conceal them, preventing the others from seeing what was written.


    "In terms of the quantity of treasure, the imperial government offered the most," thought Qin Yun. "However, the Divine Firmament Chapter seems bent on obtaining it. The number of treasures they offered ranks second."


    ¡­


    As the four watched Qin Yun, they also looked at the four floating scrolls. However, Qin Yun had insulated the scrolls from their probes, keeping all of them in a state of suspense.


    Divine Firmament Chapter''s Zhang Qingyou was very nervous. "Given the Yi family and Yi Xiao''s relationship, Qin Yun should be biased towards my Divine Firmament Chapter. Our offer is also extremely enticing. But I just do not know who this Qin Yun will eventually choose." After all, Qin Yun had never given any signal that might indicate his preference.


    The other three were equally nervous.


    "Phew." The four scrolls rolled up and landed on the stone table.


    Qin Yun looked at the four and said with a smile, "I have perused each and every one of your offers. They are all excellent; however, I have decided who to sell the Golden Core Cauldron to."


    "Who?" The four held their breaths.


    "The Golden Core Cauldron will be sold to the Divine Firmament Chapter," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    The red-haired man, Zhang Qingyou from the Divine Firmament Chapter was immediately overjoyed. However, the other three gave looks of extreme disappointment.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin," Seventh Imperial Uncle could not help but comment. "You previously mentioned that you would decide this fair and square, but now you are giving it to the Divine Firmament Chapter directly. We all know of your relationship with the Divine Firmament Chapter. It would have been fine if you sold it to the Divine Firmament Chapter at the beginning, but since you invited the three of us here and declared that it would be done fair and square, it should be fair! I can¡¯t believe that the Divine Firmament Chapter''s offer is better than my imperial government''s."


    The two delegates from Numinous Treasure Mountain and Primordial Chaos Sect looked expectantly at Qin Yun as well.


    He knew he had to convince them of their defeat or they would not be pleased.


    "I can let the three of you see the Divine Firmament Chapter''s offer. However, the three of you have to keep it a secret. After all, there are probably quite a number of great fiendish demons keeping watch over me," said Qin Yun.


    "That is only natural."


    "We will definitely keep it a secret."


    Seventh Imperial Uncle and the other two agreed immediately.


    In fact, Qin Yun did not mind showing them. Even if they did not keep it a secret, it was already a well-known fact that he had treasures that could match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    Qin Yun picked up the Divine Firmament Chapter''s scroll and threw it straight out. It floated in midair and unfurled itself.


    Seventh Imperial Uncle and company looked at it carefully.


    "In terms of array formations, the Divine Firmament Chapter is willing to build an additional Galactic Swimming Dragon Array and Grand Astral Sea Array to complement the Nine Heavens Astral River Array," explained Qin Yun. "They will also be set up personally by Senior Yi. The synergy between the three array formations is really quite perfect."


    How could it not be perfect?


    The Nine Heavens Astral River Array was created by Patriarch Yi and Patriarch Yi had found two other array formations to complement it. Furthermore, he would personally set it up so it would naturally be the most optimal formation.


    "As for the Yellow-scarved Strongman? Only Numinous Treasure Mountain and Divine Firmament Chapter have those," continued Qin Yun. "As for Numinous Treasure Mountain, be it the array formation or the treasures, their offer was inferior to the Divine Firmament Chapter¡¯s."


    "In terms of treasures, the imperial government has offered more than the Divine Firmament Chapter. Unfortunately, the imperial government¡¯s offered array formation is slightly weaker. Secondly, the offer to station a Godfiend Guard is ultimately inferior to a Yellow-scarved Strongman. Furthermore, the amount of treasure doesn¡¯t actually exceed the others by much. If the treasures offered were a lot more, I might have been moved. But since it''s just a little more, I''d rather have a better array formation and a Yellow-scarved Strongman. Therefore, I eventually chose the Divine Firmament Chapter," explained Qin Yun.


    Seventh Imperial Uncle and company were rendered speechless as they read the scroll.


    "Your Divine Firmament Chapter also has Yellow-scarved Strongmen?" Daoist Bai from Numinous Treasure Mountain could not help but comment.


    "Our Ancestral Master Zhang refined it," said the red-haired man with a chuckle.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang is indeed impressive. He actually managed to figure out the method to refine Yellow-scarved Strongmen," Elder Floating Steel from the Primordial Chaos Sect said with a sigh.


    "The array formation offered had to complement the Nine Heavens Astral River Array, which was created by Senior Yi, so it''s only natural that the Divine Firmament Chapter had the advantage." Seventh Imperial Uncle was somewhat displeased. "Fellow Daoist Qin Yun, you were biased towards the Divine Firmament Chapter from the beginning."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "The Nine Heavens Astral River Array was already given to me by Senior Yi! Furthermore, I had declared that it has to complement the Nine Heavens Astral River Array early on. If the imperial government had offered me a powerful array as well, I would probably have chosen the imperial government."


    Seventh Imperial Uncle shook his head with a sigh.


    He did not argue any further.


    After all, the amount of treasures he had offered was only slightly more. As for the conditions regarding the array formations and the Yellow-scarved Strongman, they were inferior to the Divine Firmament Chapter, so he could only admit defeat.


    Furthermore, the imperial government had specifically instructed that, although he was sent to vie for the Golden Core Cauldron, he had to maintain a cordial relationship with Qin Yun. "Qin Yun''s strength is extraordinary and he has astounding potential. If he survives the calamity of the fiendish demons, it would not be impossible for him to become a sword immortal that steps into the Dao. When that time comes, the imperial government could use the services of such a sword immortal."


    The imperial government would use powers from all over the world to achieve its goals, after all.


    ¡­


    The vying of the treasure ended with the Divine Firmament Chapter winning.


    The Divine Firmament Chapter was naturally delighted. They sent an Essence Soul immortal to deliver the treasures to the Inspector Heavenly Alliance personally.


    "This is my Zhang family''s third ancestral master. He is also our Divine Firmament Chapter''s Elder Power Extraordinaire," introduced Zhang Qingyou.


    "Greetings Senior (Elder) Power Extraordinaire," greeted Qin Yun and Yi Xiao with a bow.


    "Brother Yi has told me about the two of you." Daoist Power Extraordinaire was extremely refined as he said with a smile, "It''s truly a joyous thing, to find a Dao partner on the path of cultivation."


    As he spoke, he took a Cosmic Bag from his waist and gave it to Qin Yun. "These are the treasures we agreed upon. They are all in there, so have a look."


    After taking it from him, Qin Yun opened and probed it before he put it away with a nod.


    "Show yourself, Yellow-scarved Strongman," Elder Power Extraordinaire said.


    Phew!


    Formless mist rapidly condensed into a silver-armored divine general that was ten feet tall. He had a fair complexion without a beard. He had a resolute and steadfast look with coldness exuding from his eyes.


    Qin Yun''s eyes could not help but light up when he saw the Yellow-scarved Strongman. He exuded a powerful oppressive aura. It stemmed from his powerful, mighty body.


    "This is Qin Yun," Elder Power Extraordinaire said as he pointed at Qin Yun.


    "Greetings, Lord Qin Yun, I will be your subordinate." The Yellow-scarved Strongman cupped his hands and said respectfully. "I have received orders from Master to be dispatched as Lord Qin Yun''s subordinate. For the next hundred years, I will abide by Lord Qin Yun''s orders. When the term is up, I will return to the Divine Firmament Chapter."

 175 Returning to Grand Dominance

    Chapter 175: Returning to Grand Dominance


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun carefully observed the Yellow-scarved Strongman. He was dressed in silver armor and had a yellow scarf tied around his head. The scarf had runic patterns on it that exuded profound waves. His eyes looked at Qin Yun intently as though he was a real living being. However, Qin Yun knew that Yellow-scarved Strongmen were refined. They were not true living beings and because of that, they were truly immortal without the risk of suffering any tribulations. In addition, they were absolutely loyal.


    But previously, only immortals from Numinous Treasure Mountain could refine Yellow-scarved Strongmen. And from ancient times, Numinous Treasure Mountain only had a total of six Yellow-scarved Strongmen, accentuating how difficult it was to refine one.


    And now, the Divine Firmament Chapter could also refine Yellow-scarved Strongmen, done by the legendary Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "As expected of Ancestral Master Zhang. He singlehandedly led a sect to become a Daoist sacred land." Qin Yun was astounded inwardly.


    Elder Power Extraordinaire introduced, "My young friend, Qin Yun, the master of this Yellow-scarved Strongman is my family''s ancestor, also our Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang. Do you know of the means available to a Yellow-scarved Strongman?"


    "I''ve heard a little before but I really do not know much," said Qin Yun. Yi Xiao also looked curiously at the ten-foot-tall divine warrior.


    The Yellow-scarved Strongman immediately said respectfully, "Lord Qin Yun, I have an indestructible body and can dissipate at will. In terms of strength, it is hard to meet a match at anything below immortals or fiendcelestials. However, legendary Connate Golden Core cultivators that have stepped into the Dao are stronger than me."


    "Connate Golden Core Paramount realm experts are not your match?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Lord," said the Yellow-scarved Strongman respectfully. "I''m equal when fighting Connate Golden Core Paramount realm experts in a head-on clash. However, I am indestructible and I can teleport. Therefore, I hold the advantage when facing Connate Golden Core Paramount realm experts."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up when he heard that. "Teleport?"


    Elder Power Extraordinaire nodded and said with a smile, "He can hide in the void and instantly appear in any spot within a five-kilometer radius. Haha, even we as immortals are very envious of this ability. It is unique to Yellow-scarved Strongmen."


    Qin Yun faltered.


    To appear anywhere in a five-kilometer radius? This was more terrifying than the Length Contraction Spell of immortals.


    "Furthermore, he will be constantly on guard while protecting your Qin family. He will not lower his guard for even an instant. True living beings are not capable of doing that," said Elder Power Extraordinaire with a smile. "Even immortals and fiendcelestials have to sleep. Furthermore, with the combined powers of the three massive arrays set up in your Qin family, the Yellow-scarved Strongman''s strength would be greatly enhanced due to the arrays! It will truly be impregnable."


    Qin Yun nodded. An expert that could be constantly vigilant, indestructible, teleport, and be absolutely loyal was truly a perfect guardian! Each one was worth about a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. It was why Qin Yun only dared to request it to protect the Qin family for a hundred years. The Divine Firmament Chapter was also only willing to loan the Yellow-scarved Strongman to the Qin family for protection for a hundred years because it wanted to buy the Golden Core Cauldron.


    "Qin Yun, is there any mistake with any of the treasures?" Elder Power Extraordinaire looked at Qin Yun.


    "There''s no mistake." Qin Yun immediately handed the Cosmic Bag he prepared to Elder Power Extraordinaire. "Inside this is the Golden Core Cauldron."


    Elder Power Extraordinaire took it over, opened it, and checked it before nodding with a smile. "Alright, I shall not stay here any longer with the business settled."


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Zhang Qingyou, along with the Yellow-scarved Strongman sent him off.


    Elder Power Extraordinaire immediately departed the Inspector Heavenly Alliance for the Divine Firmament Chapter with the Golden Core Cauldron in possession.


    "Haha, Daoist Qin," Zhang Qingyou said with a smile as he watched the long departed Elder Power Extraordinaire. "My Divine Firmament Chapter mobilized two immortals for you. Patriarch Yi has gone to Grand Dominance to set up an array for you. Patriarch Power Extraordinaire came personally to hand you the treasures. You should know that it is exceedingly difficult even for many of my Divine Firmament Chapter''s inherited teachings disciples to see the two immortals."


    "I''ve never seen the Chapter''s immortals in the past either," added Yi Xiao. "Even for my Yi family''s patriarch, I have only seen him through transmission projections. This is the first time I''ve seen him in person."


    "Only the Golden Core Cauldron can cause such a stir, allowing us to see an immortal in person," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Daoist Zhang, Xiaoxiao and I prepare to return to Grand Dominance."


    "Now?" Zhang Qingyou was astonished.


    Yi Xiao nodded with a smile. "Yea, it''s not like Brother Yun and I can stay in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance forever."


    "Alright. Both of you be careful on the way." Zhang Qingyou exhorted them immediately. "There might be great fiendish demons targeting you on the way back."


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun looked at the Yellow-scarved Strongman beside him. "Yellow-scarved Strongman, I''ve heard that your flying arts are extremely impressive. Bring me and Xiaoxiao back to Grand Dominance. Let me have a taste of your skills."


    "Lord, rest assured."


    The Yellow-scarved Strongman immediately stirred a cloud and brought Qin Yun and Yi Xiao with him.


    Phew.


    The cloud transformed into a stream of light that headed straight for Grand Dominance.


    "How fast." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were alarmed when they felt the flying art.


    "As expected of a Yellow-scarved Strongman. This flying escape art can only be matched if my Beam Transformation Art reaches the ninth level," Qin Yun said wistfully. "Compared to what I have attained, its far superior."


    "It''s really fast. Perhaps my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma has to reach the Connate Golden Core realm, allowing me to perform Lightning Manifestation would it exceed him," said Yi Xiao.


    Beside them, the Yellow-scarved Strongman said with a deep voice, "Lord, I only have this speed because I''m bringing the both of you with me. If I were traveling alone, I can teleport. The speed would be much faster than what it is now. Immortals and fiendcelestials would find it difficult to even chase up to me."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked into each other''s eyes and could not help but be astonished.


    ¡­


    Two great fiendish demons were hiding in the clouds five hundred kilometers away. One of them was a thin three-eyed elder who was leaning on a crutch. He was the infamous Triclops Ghost King. As for the other one, he was the even more famous Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    "Oh?" Triclops Ghost King''s third eye which was located at his glabella projected a faint beam of light in front of him. Suddenly, his expression changed. "Patriarch Wolf Mountain, both of them are out."


    "They are finally out of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance?" Patriarch Wolf Mountain immediately revealed an excited look.


    "But accompanying the two of them is a Yellow-scarved Strongman. Its flying art is extremely fast," Triclops Ghost King constantly observed the situation five hundred kilometers away through his third eye.


    "Yellow-scarved Strongman?"


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain frowned slightly. "This Qin Yun actually managed to borrow a Yellow-scarved Strongman?"


    "What do we do?" Triclops Ghost King looked at Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    "Let''s carry on waiting." Patriarch Wolf Mountain shook his head gently. "Although I''m not afraid of a Yellow-scarved Strongman, with his protection, I would not be able to do a thing to Qin Yun."


    Triclops Ghost King remarked, "Patriarch Yi is now with the Qin family. However, Patriarch Yi is an Essence Soul immortal so it''s impossible for him to stay with the Qin family forever. Qin Yun must have borrowed the Yellow-scarved Strongman to guard the Qin family! But¡­ Qin Yun is young. He can''t hide in the Qin family all his life, right? As long as he comes out, we can take action! If he brings the Yellow-scarved Strongman out with him, the Qin family would not have experts guarding it. We can then capture the Qin family members to threaten him."


    "Alright." Patriarch Wolf Mountain nodded.


    It was also very common for powerful fiendish demons like them to kidnap family members to use as threats.


    ¡­


    Shoo!


    In the form of a black stream of light, an odd-looking youth paused in midair and watched the distant Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and the Yellow-scarved Strongman depart.


    "They are out. They are finally out." The odd-looking youth frowned slightly. "Unfortunately, they have a Yellow-scarved Strongman with them."


    "Black Snake."


    An ice-cold voice sounded beside him.


    Black Snake was alarmed as he turned his head and saw a stubby man walk over. The man still had scales on his face as he looked coldly at the youth.


    "Patriarch Crocdragon." Black Snake shuddered as he said sycophantically, "Patriarch, I never expected that even you would come."


    "Yea, that Qin Yun''s treasure halo is blinding." The stubby man watched from afar before shooting a glance at the youth. "I''ll be taking the treasures. From this moment forth, help me and I''ll give you ten percent after obtaining it."


    "Sure thing. Patriarch, it''s exactly because you think highly of me that you request my help," said Black Snake immediately.


    Patriarch Crocdragon was famous among the Four Seas'' Water race. Even the Dragon race was afraid of him.


    Black Snake grimaced inwardly, "Even Patriarch Crocdragon has appeared. How many more terrifying monsters will be lured out? It''s best I keep a low profile and follow Patriarch Crocdragon obediently. Perhaps, I might reap some of the rewards."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company flew back in a rush.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s gaze swept a distance away. There was a crow flying there but Qin Yun could sense it spying on him.


    "Whew!"


    A sword beam flew out, streaking across the sky and instantly slaying the distant crow.


    "Brother Yun, what happened?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I kept having a feeling that I was being watched along the way," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I suspect there is more than one great demon targeting me but the way that crow spied on me at such a close distance is severely amateurish."


    Yi Xiao nodded and said solemnly, "Too many treasures are at stake this time. There are probably many targeting us."


    "At least the Qin family is already impregnable," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Amid the chatter, they saw an ancient city in the distance. It was none other than Grand Dominance County City.


    "We''re home." Qin Yun felt mixed emotions. After all, he had vanished for more than three years. His parents were definitely worried about him all this while.


    Yi Xiao was also feeling somewhat nervous. After all, the both of them had married each other without any forewarning. Now, she had to meet her in-laws.


    Phew.


    The couple and the Yellow-scarved Strongman plummeted straight down, right into Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor.

 176 Simmering Anger

    Chapter 176: Simmering Anger


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun with Yi Xiao and the Yellow-scarved Strongman landed together, coming to the yard he usually meditated in. The clean yard indicated that it was cleaned on a daily basis.


    "Yellow-scarved Strongman," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, my Lord," said a polite Yellow-scarved Strongman immediately.


    "From this moment forth, you should protect Qin Manor and protect my family members. As for the details, I will instruct you when the arrays are done setting up," said Qin Yun. "You can take your leave for now."


    "Yes." Yellow-scarved Strongman said politely. Following that, his body vanished into a stream of light.


    "Xiaoxiao, let''s go greet Senior Yi first," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. She naturally showed great respect for her patriarch.


    The couple quickly saw Patriarch Yi setting up the array formation in a garden.


    "Senior (Patriarch)," Qin Yun and Yi Xiao shouted politely.


    Patriarch Yi turned to look at the couple. He nodded and said with a smile, "The Nine Heavens Astral River Array is almost done. By the way, give me the Galactic Swimming Dragon Array and the Grand Astral Sea Array materials. I''ll help you set them all up together."


    "Yes." Qin Yun handed over a Cosmic Bag he had long prepared to Patriarch Yi.


    After Patriarch Yi took it over from him and opened it, he nodded slightly. "It should take two days to finish setting them up. When the time comes, who do you plan on controlling the array formation? Your mercenaries have just barely knocked open the gate of immortality and you don''t even have a Connate cultivator. They will not be able to control such a massive array."


    "Xiaoxiao and I can both control it. It will be helmed by the Yellow-scarved Strongman usually. Can he handle it?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yea."


    Patriarch Yi nodded. "You can feel assured having the Yellow-scarved Strongman helm it. He is absolutely loyal and will not betray you."


    Qin Yun inquired, "By the way, Senior. It has been a day since I came out of the immortal abode. You came to my Qin Manor earlier than me. Were there any trouble caused by demons?"


    "There were a few lesser demons causing trouble but that kid Hong Lingtong resolved the matter," said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "I''ve already seen that Hong Lingtong has set up an extremely powerful array formation that covers all of Grand Dominance."


    "Brother Hong?" Qin Yun nodded.


    "As for the great demons, although they are secretly watching, none of them infiltrated the Qin Manor as I have been setting up the array openly without hiding my identity," said Patriarch Yi with a laugh. "Alright, both of you just returned. Go greet your parents. I''ll continue setting up the array."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao immediately took their leave.


    ¡­


    Changlan was basking in the sun in a courtyard while making shoes herself. Although the Qin family was wealthy, Changlan was already used to doing such chores.


    "Second Young Master!" Her personal maidservant exclaimed. It jolted Changlan''s heart as she turned to look over.


    She immediately noticed the young immortal-like couple walking over. The man had an extraordinary bearing that could only be found on a peerless sword immortal; while the woman was like a fairy descended.


    "Yun''er." Changlan immediately put the shoe, needle, and thread down and ran over. After taking two steps, she turned her head and shouted. "Liehu! Liehu! Yun''er is back!"


    Phew.


    In the backyard on the other end of the courtyard, a middle-aged man with only one arm appeared nearly instantly. He was none other than Qin Yun''s father, Qin Liehu.


    "Yun''er." Changlan came in front of Qin Yun and grabbed his hands with her eyes red.


    Qin Liehu walked over and nodded with a smile. "It''s good that you are back."


    "Father, Mother, sorry for worrying the both of you," said Qin Yun. Immediately, he pulled over the somewhat shy Yi Xiao. "Father, Mother, I have something important I would like to tell the both of you."


    "Something important?" Qin Liehu and Changlan were taken aback. Their son had been gone for three years without any news. They were still feeling excited from reuniting with their son, so what important matter was there?


    "Xiaoxiao and I were trapped in a land of peril and we had no idea when we could come out. Therefore, we had our wedding in there," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Xiaoxiao is now your daughter-in-law."


    "Daughter-in-law?" Qin Liehu and Changlan were somewhat stunned.


    "Yun''er, you really married Miss Yi?" Changlan could not help but say. "I once said that Miss Yi is like a fairy from heaven."


    "What are you talking about?"


    Qin Liehu knitted his brows and interrupted Changlan. At the same time, he smiled at Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. "Yun''er, your marriage with Miss Yi is a joyous matter. Both your mother and I are very happy for you but it''s not formal enough. At the very least, we have to do the marriage rituals¡­ After all, the Yi family is one of the few large families in the world."


    "Father, Mother, we were trapped and had no way of coming out back then," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao added, "Brother Yun and I are cultivators so we do not care too much about these mere formalities."


    ¡­


    As they had been married for quite some time, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao offered tea to their parents as a part of the wedding tradition.


    Changlan handed a jade bangle she had long prepared to Yi Xiao. She had waited a long time for this day, finally giving out the bangle she had prepared for her second son''s wife. She also smiled happily and said, "Both of you are now married, so quickly have an adorable baby. The both of us can help you take care of it."


    "We will do it as fast as possible," replied Qin Yun as a form of lip service.


    However, Yi Xiao secretly turned anxious and felt helpless.


    The higher one''s cultivation realm was, the harder it was to conceive. It was not something that could be rushed.


    ******


    On the second day after Qin Yun returned, Hong Lingtong came to visit.


    "Congratulations, Brother Qin Yun. Congratulations Miss Yi." Hong Lingtong was beaming. "Congratulations on your marriage and for the both of you to come out of the immortal abode safely."


    "How did you know?" Yi Xiao was somewhat astonished.


    "I can read karma and the light that providence shines on people," said Hong Lingtong with a smile. "Now, both of you are connected by marriage, so I can tell that."


    "Brother Hong''s inference arts are truly impressive," remarked Qin Yun.


    At the same time, he instructed Yi Xiao to leave temporarily through a voice transmission. This was because the treasures in the immortal abode were to be split evenly between Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong! Hong Lingtong had requested Qin Yun to keep it a secret back then. No third person was allowed to know of it, so Qin Yun did not even mention it to Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao nodded and took her leave immediately.


    As he watched Yi Xiao leave, Hong Lingtong said wistfully, "Brother Qin Yun, you are truly a trustworthy person. You didn''t even mention the matters regarding the immortal abode''s treasures to Sister-in-law. In fact, although you had to keep it a secret, it wouldn''t have mattered if you told Sister-in-law."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong. "You seem a lot more confident. It appears you have broken through?"


    "Haha, Brother Qin Yun, you had given me quite a bit of treasure back then," said Hong Lingtong with a smile. "I didn''t easily use the Golden Core Outer Pill and the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills but just the second-grade and third-grade Dharma treasures¡­ made me have more treasures than some Connate Golden Core cultivators. I used them and after three years, my strength has increased quite significantly. Even my Dharmic powers had reached the Connate True Core realm."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "I was inside the immortal abode and could only use Spirit Pills that could enhance Dharmic powers. You were outside and there were means available for you. It isn''t a surprise that you can enter the Connate True Core realm."


    "It''s best if those treasures were used to convert into strength as early as possible." Hong Lingtong flipped his hand and handed a black metallic token to Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, this is the token that controls the array formation."


    "The array formation''s token?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "I received a lot of benefits on our trip to the immortal abode," explained Hong Lingtong. "Although we had agreed on splitting it equally, you had kept it a complete secret, making the world think that all the treasures were with you. Those great fiendish demons targeted you as well, leaving me void of any danger. I feel quite ashamed. Besides, didn''t you request me to protect your Qin family for the past three years?"


    "I set up a secret array formation of my lineage, the ''Nine Doubts Realm Array'' around your Qin family. It is also the most powerful array formation that I''m capable of setting up. Now, I''m giving it to you, Brother Qin Yun," said Hong Lingtong.


    "No way," said Qin Yun immediately. "You have helped me protect my Qin family for three years. How can I¡­"


    "Brother Qin Yun, listen to me," said Hong Lingtong immediately. "You helped me ward off disaster and I feel that I owe you a lot. I''m still not strong enough and can only hide with my thick skin. But since I have already set up this array formation, you should just accept it. It will make me feel better. Besides, treat it as a wedding gift. It''s a gift, so you should accept it, right?"


    "Alright then." Qin Yun did not continue rejecting it.


    "This Nine Doubts Realm Array is rather unique," said Hong Lingtong. The array''s interior is split into nine different spaces and it is one of the best illusion array formations in the world."


    Qin Yun was surprised.


    Split into nine different spaces? To be able to do so indicated how astounding the array formation was. This made Qin Yun more curious over Hong Lingtong''s heritage. After all, back when Hong Lingtong just entered the Connate False Core realm, his attainments in array formations were extremely high. He could also infer the past and future. What lineage was his heritage from?


    "Brother Qin Yun, you exhorted me to protect your Qin family. I have never slacked off for the past three years," said Hong Lingtong. "And during these three years, there were indeed fiendish demons watching. Ordinary fiendish demons were fine. I could easily vanquish them but there was a Connate Golden Core great fiendish demon that once came."


    "What? A Connate Golden Core great fiendish demon?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    He had brought the Golden Core Cauldron into the array formation for three years, yet there were great fiendish demons that had targeted his family?


    "Yes, it was Temple Lord Ruyi from the Qian Prefecture," said Hong Lingtong. "He infiltrated the Qin Manor and probably wanted to capture your family members so as to threaten you with them when you come out. The Nine Doubts Realm Array encompasses the surrounding five kilometers and my Hong family is within the range. The moment he entered the Nine Doubts Realm Array confines, I was alerted. And just as he infiltrated the Qin Manor, I immediately trapped him using the array."


    "Inside the array formation, I fought with him and although I injured him, my strength was ultimately lacking," said Hong Lingtong. "Finally, I purged him out. He was afraid of the Nine Doubts Realm Array''s strength so although he made several attempts with other fiendish demons, he no longer dared to come personally."


    "Temple Lord Ruyi?"


    Qin Yun''s eyes flared with killing intent. "That centipede demon?"

 177 Stand-in Life Charm

    Chapter 177: Stand-in Life Charm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Temple Lord Ruyi was rather famous among Connate Golden Core great fiendish demons, not because he was strong but because he had a lot of guts. Despite having the strength of an ordinary great fiendish demon, he dared to challenge in existences at the Connate Golden Core Paramount realm. His true form was that of a centipede demon and he had a hundred legs. Even if his body were diced into seven or eight segments, he would remain alive! With him being adept at burrowing into the ground, cultivators found it impossible to kill him for his evil sins despite repeated attempts.


    "Thankfully, Brother Hong helped guard my family or my family members would have been kidnapped! That old centipede demon¡­" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with cold killing intent.


    Hong Lingtong said, "That centipede demon was tough. It was easy to defeat him but killing him was extremely difficult."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    Hong Lingtong immediately said with a smile, "For the past three years, I did not dare slack off even once. Now that Brother Qin Yun is back, and Patriarch Yi is helping you set up the arrays personally, I can finally feel assured. I can now enter cultivation seclusion with peace of mind."


    "It must have been hard on you for the past three years, Brother Hong." Qin Yun was very grateful. Just the thought of his parents, brother, and the rest being kidnapped left a lingering fear in him before they were replaced by flames of fury.


    "The great fiendish demons are all targeting you. How is the little I''ve done worth anything?" said Hong Lingtong. "Oh, this is one Golden Core Outer Pill and one Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill that you gave me back then. Now that you are out of the immortal abode, it''s time to return them to you."


    Qin Yun did not reject it and immediately took it.


    There had been a total of six Golden Core Outer Pills. Each of them was to have three. Qin Yun had consumed one and he had given Yi Xiao another. Naturally, there was one left.


    "Brother Hong, the transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron has been sold to the Divine Firmament Chapter. This is what is rightfully yours." Qin Yun handed a Cosmic Bag to Hong Lingtong. "It''s roughly worth three first-grade Dharma treasures."


    Hong Lingtong''s expression changed when he heard that. "That much?"


    It was indeed a lot.


    The Yue Chapter was a top sect that had survived since ancient times. Due to its long history, it had encountered numerous calamities and before it obtained the White Dew flying sword, all it had were three first-grade Dharma treasures! Of course, the fusion of the flying swords, White Dew and Azure Water would be equivalent to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    But the treasures that were equivalent to three first-grade Dharma treasures was something that left Hong Lingtong alarmed.


    After all, the materials needed for the Nine Heavens Astral River Array, as well as the Galactic Swimming Dragon Array and Grand Astral Sea Array matched a first-grade Dharma treasure! Besides, the Nine Heavens Astral River Array had been given to Qin Yun by Patriarch Yi.


    Taking the Yellow-scarved Strongman as an example, one of it was worth the equivalent of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. However, Qin Yun had only borrowed it for a hundred years, reducing the cost of borrowing it to that of half a first-grade Dharma treasure.


    ¡­


    One first-grade Dharma treasure alone was sufficient to cause peril to befall a Connate Golden Core cultivator!


    "We agreed on splitting it evenly," said Qin Yun.


    Hong Lingtong immediately bowed respectfully. "Brother Qin Yun, I won''t reject it. I''ll be taking it but there''s somethng I need your help with."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong.


    "I''ll take most of these treasures. There will be some¡­ that I require Brother Qin Yun to help me exchange for some herbal treasures," said Hong Lingtong. "After all, I wouldn''t dare to appear when changing all these treasures. I''ll have to rely on you."


    "It''s nothing." Qin Yun nodded as a form of agreement.


    "In a while, I''ll give you a list," said Hong Lingtong. He took out a broken wooden piece and handed it solemnly to Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, you have to keep this tiny gift after going through all the trouble because of me."


    Qin Yun puzzledly took it.


    "This is a Stand-in Life Charm," whispered Hong Lingtong. "It''s equivalent to a life. Furthermore, when the Stand-in Life Charm activates¡­ it can teleport the owner to a distance five hundred kilometers away."


    "Stand-in Life Charm?" Qin Yun was astounded.


    It was a treasure that was equivalent to a life?


    Magistress Mountain had Stand-in Dolls but the price of refining one was exceedingly high. The price of one was no less than a first-grade Dharma treasure! Furthermore, it was not something that could be bought.


    "It''s too expensive." Qin Yun did not dare to accept it.


    "I dare to accept treasures that match three first-grade Dharma treasures but you do not dare?" said Hong Lingtong. "Besides, there are so many great fiendish demons targeting you now! Your family members might even be implicated. You are more in need of this Stand-in Life Charm."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred and thought to himself. "My parents are always in Grand Dominance City but Xiaoxiao is a cultivator after all. She will still need to return to the Divine Firmament Chapter and would be in need of treasures to protect herself."


    "Alright, I''ll accept it." Qin Yun took it over.


    Only then did Hong Lingtong reveal a smile.


    Hong Lingtong did not like to owe others. Furthermore, his cultivation lineage paid great importance to karma.


    Previously, he had produced the token to bring Qin Yun into the cave abode; therefore, the splitting of treasures was fair and necessary! Qin Yun had found the things like the Golden Core Outer Pills and the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills through his guidance¡­ In addition, he had watched over the Qin family for three years. He could accept all the treasures that Qin Yun had previously given him but the Golden Core Cauldron and Elder Sword''s treasures were all thanks to Qin Yun.


    In addition, Qin Yun had to face the calamity for him. With Qin Yun''s many treasures, many great fiendish demons would covet them. It was also a form of karma.


    Hong Lingtong, on the other hand, would be hiding behind Qin Yun and not suffer from the calamity. In addition, he was taking three first-grade Dharma treasures? All he could do was offer the Stand-in Life Charm to share the karma.


    If he owed too much karma, his cultivation lineage would be affected.


    As for Qin Yun?


    Qin Yun did not care about karma. All he cared was to have a clear conscious and to do things as his heart wished!


    "The Stand-in Life Charm can be refined for yourself by dripping your blood into it." Hong Lingtong could not help but inform Qin Yun when he saw him put away the Stand-in Life Charm.


    "I got it." Qin Yun nodded and said with a smile. However, he did not drip his blood into it.


    ¡­


    That night.


    Qin Yun explained the situation to Yi Xiao.


    "Xiaoxiao, you have to keep it a secret," said Qin Yun.


    "So the treasures were split evenly between the both of you." Yi Xiao was enlightened.


    Qin Yun added, "Brother Hong also gave me an array formation and this Stand-in Life Charm as a wedding gift." As he said, he handed the ordinary-looking and broken wooden piece to Yi Xiao. The cracks on the wooden piece appeared somewhat ugly but Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had both understood the implications of the Heavenly Dao. They both noticed the extraordinary aspects of those cracks.


    "Stand-in Life Charm?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "Yea. Drip your blood in and you can refine it for yourself. It''s equivalent to an additional life. Furthermore, when it''s activated, it will teleport you five hundred kilometers away," said Qin Yun. "It''s impressive. This Brother Hong of mine is truly impressive."


    "Come on. Xiaoxiao, quickly drip your blood," said Qin Yun.


    "Me? No, no. Brother Yun, you are in greater need of it," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Haha, you know my strength as well. With my current flying sword arts, I can dominate the world. I also have the Beam Transformation Art that allows me to escape at any time. How many in the world can stop me?" said Qin Yun confidently. "Even if I can''t beat them, can''t I escape?"


    Yi Xiao was taken aback slightly before she nodded.


    Indeed, Qin Yun''s strength was extremely powerful. Furthermore, he had the life-preservation Cyclic Sword Flash art.


    "Come on, take it." Qin Yun looked at her. "I do not want you to befall into another perilous situation like last time."


    Yi Xiao''s heart warmed when she heard that. She nodded gently and said, "Alright, I''ll accept it." Immediately, she stretched out her finger and dripped a drop of blood into the wooden piece. It rapidly absorbed the drop of blood.


    "How fascinating." Yi Xiao picked up the wooden piece. "I feel as though I''ve become one with the wooden piece I''m it and it''s me."


    "A Stand-in Life Charm can be used as a life. It''s naturally fascinating," Qin Yun said wistfully.


    "According to what I know," said Yi Xiao. "One of those with stand-in treasures is Magistress Mountain, the magus lineage. The others are the Daoist''s Numinous Treasure Mountain and formerly the Scenic Mountain Sect. However, ever since Scenic Mountain Sect declined, it could no longer refine another stand-in treasure. Only Numinous Treasure Mountain was capable of doing so! Even the Divine Firmament Chapter and Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery are unable to do it. Yet, Brother Hong has managed to produce it¡­"


    Qin Yun nodded. "To be able to infer the past and future, be so skilled in array formations, hide treasure halos, and now, producing a Stand-in Life Charm, how can any ordinary heritage compare to it? It must be some kind of secret heritage."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao did recall reading of a marvelous person that was recorded in the Divine Firmament Chapter''s canon. He shared some similarities with Hong Lingtong. However, Yi Xiao remained baffled by the heritage in question.


    "Regardless, he has helped me greatly and has even saved my family. I will feel indebted to him," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    ******


    Two days later.


    Patriarch Yi handed Qin Yun the three tokens that controlled the Nine Heavens Astral River Array, the Galactic Swimming Dragon Array, and the Grand Astral Sea Array "Now, you are in complete control of these three array formations. As to how the array formations should be controlled and by whom, I''ll leave it to you."


    "Thank you, Senior," said Qin Yun gratefully.


    "Alright, take good care of Yi Xiao. If I learn that you let her down in any way, the Divine Firmament Chapter has means to deal with you even if I can''t take action against you." Patriarch Yi looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao gave each other a knowing smile. "Don''t worry, Senior!"


    Seeing how lovey-dovey the couple was, Patriarch Yi laughed and shook his head. "Alright, I''m leaving. We shall meet again if fate allows for it."


    He turned to leave. As he stepped into the void, he headed straight for the horizon and as he walked, he vanished into nothingness.


    "Brother Yun, give the array formation a try," urged Yi Xiao.


    "Yea."


    Qin Yun easily refined the three tokens.


    Every token could perfectly control one array formation.


    "Nice," Qin Yun smacked his lips as he sensed the three perfectly fused arrays. "In the combined array formation, the various array formations'' might augment me. My strength is ten times stronger! The enemies'' strength would even decrease. The array formation has my Qin Manor as its center and has a radius of fifteen kilometers That means it spans a total of thirty kilometers, enclosing the entire Grand Dominance County City."


    Fifteen kilometers that stretched out from Qin Manor.


    Such a wide range was even bigger than Grand Dominance City.


    "Nine Doubts Realm Array is good at trapping enemies."


    "The other three grand arrays have their own advantages." Qin Yun smiled. When he did the comparison, he realized that the Nine Doubts Realm Array from Hong Lingtong''s secret heritage was in no way worse than any of the three arrays that Patriarch Yi had set up. Of course, with the three arrays combined, they were much stronger than the Nine Doubts Realm Array. But even so, they were still good at different aspects.


    As such, they complemented each other.


    "Xiaoxiao, in a while, I''ll let you and the Yellow-scarved Strongman leave a mark into the four array formation''s cores," said Qin Yun. "Both of you can control the array formations as well."


    Of course, Qin Yun wielded the tokens and he was the possessor of the array formation. He could still wipe out the marks of others.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Now all of Grand Dominance City is covered." Qin Yun did not find it a surprise. After all, it was common to have array formations that spanned a few dozen kilometers.


    "Oh? Brother Hong had done a cleanup previously, leaving no demons in Grand Dominance City. Surprisingly, there are new fiendish demons that have infiltrated the city and they are watching my Qin Manor." Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a cold glint. Through the array formation, he could easily discover that there were some who were hiding in taverns while using Dharma spells to spy on Qin Manor. Some had transformed into bugs to spy on Qin Manor a great distance away. These fiendish demons were not weak. At the very least, they were demon leaders. The more powerful ones were Connate great demons.


    How would Grand Dominance City usually have so many powerful demons?


    "All of them are watching my Qin family?" Killing intent rose in Qin Yun. "I''ll first eliminate these minions."

 178 Fear from all sides

    Chapter 178: Fear from all sides


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside a tavern with an open window that faced the mirror-like lake, a thin man, whose eyes had a faint azure light flowing through them, was looking at Qin Manor from afar.


    "Qin Yun''s brother, Qin An is about to depart. He has six companions following him." The man observed.


    Suddenly¡ª


    River water appeared out of thin air as the thin man was completely enveloped by the water that suffused astral light. He could not help but be lifted up.


    "No, no. Spare me!" The man yelled but he could not produce a sound. He flailed his limbs but he could not get out of the astral water.


    Pu!


    The astral river water seeped into his body and shattered his heart. His eyes widened as he reverted back to his true form, a dhole.


    The astral river water swept across the dhole''s corpse and wrapped up all his treasured remains. As for the corpse, it was pulverized to dust.


    ¡­


    A flying bug in midair was suddenly enveloped by astral river water. The flying bug instantly transformed into the form of a woman. Despite trying her best to struggle, she was pulverized. Only the items on her were taken away.


    ¡­


    About seven kilometers from Qin Manor, there was a commoner''s residence. A fat elder was sitting cross-legged and watching a water mirror that had been condensed. The mirror showed Qin Manor and he could see everyone that entered and exited Qin Manor.


    "Hehehe, so what if you are a sword immortal? All those treasures are not something you can guard." The fat elder chuckled to himself with a laughter that was ear-piercing sharp.


    Suddenly, a blob of astral river water appeared out of nowhere and enveloped him. The fat elder was immediately alarmed.


    "Break!"


    A scimitar appeared in his hand as he cleaved forcibly in the astral river water but just halfway through his cleave, his expression changed drastically. The astral river water was seeping into his body through his nostrils and mouth. He could not stop it at all.


    "No, no, no! Spare me!" The fat elder exclaimed in horror but he could not produce a sound while trapped in the astral river water.


    Following that, he died instantly with his heart shattered. He transformed into a fat black rat. The rat''s corpse floated within the astral river water as the astral water took the items away without any hurry. Following that, the rat''s corpse turned to dust.


    ¡­


    Throughout Grand Dominance City, demons, including those spying outside the city, were killed by the sudden appearance of the astral river water as long as they were within fifteen kilometers of Qin Manor! Not a single one escaped.


    The main reason was that after the Nine Heavens Galactic Array fused with the Astral River Swimming Dragon Array and the Grand Astral Sea Array, its strength became overwhelming! Ordinary Connate True Cores would be sending themselves to their deaths in the array formation and probably a little more work was needed for those at the Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador level. Only those at the Connate Golden Core realm demanded Qin Yun or the Yellow-scarved Strongman to take action.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Items began flying from every corner of Grand Dominance City to Qin Yun''s compound in Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at the huge pile of items in front of them.


    "How many demons were killed?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Five Connate False Core great demons and nineteen demon leaders," replied Qin Yun. "Grand Dominance City had been purged of demons by Brother Hong previously. No demons were left behind so these Connate great demons and demon leaders must have recently arrived. Perhaps, the great fiendish demons backing them had instructed them to do so."


    As Qin Yun spoke, he carefully observed the items, hoping to find any clues.


    "There are a total of eight transmission treasures," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It looks like quite a number of great fiendish demons are targeting me but none of them have the guts to enter Grand Dominance."


    "The older they are, the more cowardly they become." Yi Xiao nodded in agreement.


    ¡­


    "What?" In a bamboo forest dozens of kilometers outside the city, Temple Lord Ruyi was looking in the direction of Grand Dominance City inside a bamboo hut.


    He saw a massive astral light cover Grand Dominance in its entirety. The barrier''s range was even bigger than Grand Dominance City. Following that, the blurry astral light faded into the void, preventing anyone from seeing it with their naked eyes.


    "An array formation that covers about thirty kilometers?" Temple Lord Ruyi frowned. "And even I feel threatened by it."


    Shoo!


    A stream of light landed. It was a blind elder with his eyes covered by black cloth and he was dressed in a bright red Daoist robe. He said with a chuckle, "Old Centipede, have you witnessed the means available to Qin Yun? The array formation can protect all of Grand Dominance City. The lesser demons that were trapped in there were all killed. None of them survived."


    "They are all dead?" Temple Lord Ruyi was alarmed.


    "You know what I''m capable of. I can sense that all the demonic auras in Grand Dominance City have been wiped out," said the blind elder. "He is telling us that anyone who dares eye his Qin Manor or enter Grand Dominance City would be killed without question. Furthermore, I can sense two terrifying auras in the vicinity. One of them is the one from Wolf Mountain and the other is the Crocdragon from the South Sea."


    "What? The two of them are here too?" Temple Lord Ruyi was alarmed. "With their strength, why aren''t they storming into the city right away?"


    "Perhaps they are afraid too," said the blind elder. "Qin Yun must have something backing him for him to dare return to Grand Dominance."


    "Something which makes the two of them afraid to enter?" Temple Lord Ruyi was secretly alarmed.


    ¡­


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain stood on a distant mountain peak and looked in Grand Dominance City''s direction. He sensed the massive array formation that covered all of Grand Dominance City.


    "According to Myriad Temple''s intelligence, the Qin Manor currently has the Nine Heavens Galactic Array, the Astral River Swimming Dragon Array, and the Grand Astral Sea Array. All three arrays combine to cover fifteen kilometers in radius! Furthermore, it has a Yellow-scarved Strongman presiding over it," said a three-eyed elder beside him.


    "Divine Firmament Chapter''s array formations? These three grand array formations combined can match a defensive array of top cultivation sects." Patriarch Wolf Mountain sighed in shock. Just the materials of the three grand arrays were worth a first-grade Dharma treasure. Typical top cultivation sects with weaker roots would deplete more than half their wealth if they attempted to establish something equivalent to the three massive arrays.


    Therefore, such array formations were comparable to most top cultivation sects'' defensive arrays.


    "When it comes to the three grand arrays and the Yellow-scarved Strongman," said Patriarch Wolf Mountain as he shook his head. "I wouldn''t be afraid of a Yellow-scarved Strongman outside but if I enter the array formation, the Yellow-scarved Strongman''s strength would increase exponentially while my strength will be weakened. Even I would lose my life in there."


    "Yea, entry isn''t wise." The triclops elder nodded as well.


    ¡­


    "I refuse to believe that he would hide in Grand Dominance City forever." A yellow-robed Daoist sat cross-legged on a mountain peak as he watched Grand Dominance City from afar.


    ¡­


    Many great fiendish demons were watching Grand Dominance City.


    With time, they obtained detailed intelligence. They knew that Qin Manor had three powerful arrays and a Yellow-scarved Strongman presiding over it! Even many top cultivation sects might have array formations that could match Qin Manor but they lacked a Yellow-scarved Strongman to defend them! The heavy security made all the great fiendish demons take some pause although they greatly coveted the treasures that lay within.


    "He''s only twenty-six this year. He''s a young cultivator with limitless potential. How could he hide in Grand Dominance City forever?"


    "You want to compete in patience? I have cultivated for twelve hundred years. I have plenty of patience."


    These great fiendish demons were waiting for an opportunity.


    If typical Connate Golden Core cultivators had one first-grade Dharma treasure, they would attract fatal trouble. It was obvious for Qin Yun. He had treasures that were no lesser than a transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron. If the fiendcelestials were not afraid of the tribulations or karma, they would probably have taken action themselves.


    ******


    Qin Manor also underwent changes. Many of the critical spots of the array formations were set within the lake; therefore, Qin Manor began buying the manors, restaurants, and shops around the lake. They were bought at premium prices! Although there were some restaurant and shop owners that were unwilling to part with their premises, two reasons compelled them to do so. Firstly, they did not wish to offend the Qin family and secondly, the price offered by the Qin family was indeed high. Some were even given Dao talismans that secured their residences. Naturally, the families were willing to sell them to the Qin family.


    After those were bought, the mirror-like lake''s circumference was perennially covered in a thin fog. Even those with divine powers like All-Seeing Eyes would find it difficult to spy on the Qin family.


    "Brother Liehu, My Wang family''s three manors add up to about seventy thousand square meters. It''s also neighboring the lake. Why don''t I sell it to your Qin family?" Vice Minister Wang said warmly.


    "Qin Manor already has enough," replied Qin Liehu with a smile.


    "Come on, do some charity. In a few hundred years, your Qin family would want even more land. This bit of land would not even be enough," said Vice Minister Wang warmly. "All I wish is that my third son can be Young Master Qin''s disciple. Just an in-name disciple would do. Of course, the three manors are just a welcoming gift. If Young Master Qin were to take my son in as a disciple, there will naturally be gifts appropriate for honoring a new master."


    "Old Brother Wang, that''s not something I can agree on my son''s behalf. You will need Yun''er to approve it himself," said Qin Liehu.


    "Alright. I''ll be troubling you then, Brother Liehu. These are the title deeds for the three manors," said Vice Minister Wang voluntarily.


    "No way. I can''t accept something for nothing." Qin Liehu rejected it. He was a person that adamantly refused to take advantage of others.


    It was impossible to even give away treasures to Qin Manor!


    Ever since Qin Yun returned alive, many people wanted to befriend Qin Yun. Vice Minister Wang was a businessman that was only second to the Hong family in Grand Dominance City. He was very well-informed and naturally came to curry favor.


    There were many that came to deliver gifts.


    It was fine if they were ordinary gifts but Qin Liehu refused to accept anything of serious worth.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun ignored the great fiendish demons that were secretly watching, nor did he deal with the people that came from everywhere to make his acquaintance. He only focused on spending time with Yi Xiao. The two discussed the Dao and cultivated. Occasionally, they would enjoy the delicacies of Grand Dominance City. It was quite a happy life.


    A month passed since they returned from the immortal abode and it was almost the eve of the new year.


    That day, the morning sun rose. The temperature remained extremely cold and the mirror-like lake had frozen.


    Qin Yun stood on the frozen lake as his sword intent domain covered a hundred and eighty feet around him. He held the three-foot-long Intrinsic Flying Sword and focused to calm his mind. Immediately, he began practicing his swordplay.


    In recent days, his morning practice was not done on the training grounds but on the frozen lake.


    The lake was now his training ground and it was wide. He could use any strike he wished.


    "Swoosh."


    Instantly, dimly discernible sword flashes appeared like a misty rain.


    Yi Xiao sat cross-legged by the lakeside on a mat. She had prepared hot tea and was watching Qin Yun practice his swordplay while drinking the tea. Without realizing it, Qin Yun had practiced his swordplay for more than two hours.


    "Odd? Brother Yun usually spends an hour practicing his swordplay at dawn. Why is he taking so long today?" Yi Xiao felt that something was amiss. She looked at the distant sword flashes. "Furthermore, the sword flashes produced by Brother Yun seems somewhat different."

 179 Paramount realm!

    Chapter 179: Paramount realm!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun stood on the thick layer of ice that had formed on the mirror-like lake. It was completely silent other than the sound of the sword singing through space. Qin Yun would occasionally notice his wife who was boiling hot tea by the lake as she spectated his sword practice. He could not help but smile.


    He had spent his recent days very happily.


    He had frequently toured Grand Dominance City with his wife and discussed which restaurant''s food was better.


    They would even watch some street-side performances together and throw copper coins just like any other normal citizen.


    The couple even secretly visited brothels like Swallow Phoenix Brothel and watched the performances of the renowned courtesans¡­


    They had cast Divine Concealment Spell, keeping very low profiles.


    At home, they would occasionally have drinks with their parents and elder brother or give pointers to their nephew and niece on their swordplay.


    He discussed the Dao with his wife. Although his wife focused on the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma and he focused on sword arts, they still cultivated in some common Dharma spells.


    "Eating and drinking, cultivating with my wife. It would be quite nice if this carries on for the rest of our lives." Qin Yun had seen too many separations as a result of death on the battlefield. Such happy days made him cherish them even more. The great fiendish demons believed that Qin Yun could not tolerate the boredom but deep down, Qin Yun was not a cultivator that thirsted for battle.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Qin Yun became more immersed in his sword arts as he practiced.


    Perhaps it was because he had returned to his hometown or perhaps it was the happy days in recent times, it made Qin Yun feel an unprecedented calmness. The sword arts he produced became purer and more delicate.


    The Misty Rain Sword Intent was a sword intent that Qin Yun figured out on the battlefield. In its nascent form, the Misty Rain Sword Intent was used to deal with demons on the battlefields. Its first goal was to protect his comrades-in-arms around him! Defense was prioritized before they struck the enemy! This was the core nature of the Misty Rain Sword Intent. The happy days he had recently experienced, with the numerous great fiendish demons lurking outside, made Qin Yun feel the imperative need to protect everything.


    He had to protect what he treasured!


    By cultivating Elder Sword''s seven sword arts and even grasping the seven sword intents had indeed widened Qin Yun''s horizons. By understanding sword arts from seven different angles, it made him realize that the Misty Rain Sword Intent was most suitable for him. He took portions of the seven sword intents and gradually fused them into his Misty Rain Sword Intent, perfecting his sword intent.


    Some people would be led astray if they cultivated in different sword intents!


    Qin Yun had grasped sword intent directly through Expertise Nearing Dao at the Postnatal realm. He had his own understanding towards the Sword Dao and subconsciously, it pointed towards an intrinsic nature. Even though he learned numerous sword intents, they only provided him nourishment that he could use it for his own.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew¡­" The sword flashes were like misty rain as they whistled for dozens of feet as they increasingly grew in might.


    It made Yi Xiao, who had been preparing and drinking tea by the lakeside, stand up. She watched nervously but did not dare to disturb him by making any sound. "Has Brother Yun entered a special state of mind?"


    "Boom!"


    The sword flashes'' might became more terrifying, as though a massive sphere was revolving around his surroundings.


    Very suddenly, the sword flashes converged.


    The flying sword in Qin Yun''s hand vanished and had long been stored away in his body. He stood above the frozen lake with his eyes closed.


    His surroundings gradually quietened as it turned into a still silence.


    Qin Yun stood on the ice with his eyes closed for a long while before he gradually opened his eyes. There was a formless sword intent permeating a thousand feet around him. In every direction, sword intent that had quantitatively transformed pervaded every spot.


    "Only by abandoning the superficial can I see the true nature of the core. This is the core of the Heavenly Dao. This is the Paramount realm!" Qin Yun stretched out his right hand. Above his palm, a formless sword intent condensed and formed a visible sharp beam!


    "When sword intent reaches a limit, it is extremely pure and delicate, allowing it to condense into something corporeal."


    Qin Yun looked at the sharp beam above his palm. It contained the profound circulations of the Heavenly Dao and it was one of profundity at the very core.


    Just the slightest contact with the core gave one the right to call it the Paramount realm.


    Qin Yun was feeling infinite joy. Having seen through the superficiality of several sword intents, he had truly gained a little insight into the core of the Heavenly Dao. The feeling of grasping the core was a wonderful feeling. It felt like he had gained the truth to what Sword Dao was.


    "Only by grasping the core, no matter how tiny it is, will I have the right to figure out my own Sword Dao," thought Qin Yun. "But to enter the Dao, it''s not something that can happen in a short period of time."


    The increment in realms was very difficult.


    The Heavenly Dao concepts were rather difficult to grasp. Once it was grasped, it meant that one had a good chance of entering the Connate Golden Core realm.


    As for intent domain? The difficulty was even more obvious. Before Qin Yun rose to prominence, only Sect Master Gong had accomplished that in the Jiang Prefecture.


    As one''s insights grew, the intent domain would constantly expand. It would go from a hundred feet to three hundred feet and more¡­ The size of the intent domain only represented how much one''s accumulation was. No matter how much accumulation there was, one would never reach the Paramount realm if one didn''t make contact with the core nature. Some cultivators might attain intent domain by the age of hundred but even when their end came at the age of five hundred, they would still fail to enter the Paramount realm.


    Many would have their intent domain reach a range of five or six hundred feet but they would never make the final step. They might even gain insights into one or two dozen sword intents but it would be a haphazard mix. They might end up complicating matters further for themselves and eventually become somewhat crazy after their cultivation.


    A large domain only represented a sizable amount of accumulation. The might of the attacks produced would not have any qualitative enhancement.


    And those that figured out a hint of the Heavenly Dao''s core would have said to reach the Paramount realm.


    Intrinsically, Qin Yun was aligned towards the core. Unknowingly, he had taken the most appropriate path which allowed him to grasp the Paramount realm when his intent domain was only at a hundred and eighty feet.


    "Thinking back to the sword arts that I previously created, it was a little bloated. There were too many nonessential parts to it," thought Qin Yun. "They can be simplified and modified. It will greatly increase the strength of my attacks."


    After reaching the Paramount realm, his flying sword arts would naturally represent a hint of the Heavenly Dao''s core. Its strength would also undergo an upheaval of change.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao, who was standing anxiously by the lake, could not help but be stunned when she saw Qin Yun condense a sharp beam with his right hand.


    "Brother Yun," Yi Xiao shouted immediately as she flew over.


    She tapped her feet on the ice a few times and traversed a great distance before arriving beside Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun smiled at Yi Xiao.


    "This¡­ this is¡­" Yi Xiao looked at the sharp beam. "I can''t sense any Heaven and Earth powers or Dharmic powers. Is¡­ is this purely the condensation of sword intent?"


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Sword intent is a concept, to begin with. It''s not something visible to the eyes. Only those that come into contact with the Paramount realm according to legends can condense them into something corporeal." Yi Xiao looked at the sharp beam that seemed to be filled with extreme profundity. She turned to look at Qin Yun. "Brother Yun, have¡­ have you reached the Paramount realm?"


    "Yes, the Paramount realm," Qin Yun said with a smile."I didn''t expect that I grasped the Paramount realm when my intent domain is only ranged a hundred and eighty feet."


    Yi Xiao found it unbelievable.


    She knew that Qin Yun was extremely talented and knew that he was what legends spoke of¡ªa peerless sword immortal that had grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm. She also believed that Qin Yun would reach the Paramount realm in the future. However, he had grasped it when his intent domain was at a mere hundred and eighty feet. It was astounding.


    "I finally understand what it means to be a peerless sword immortal as spoken of in legends." Yi Xiao shook her head gently and said helplessly, "As a genius disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter, I''m no way a genius when compared to you."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Xiaoxiao, you are very good as well."


    "But I know how much you have suffered." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Without a master to guide you, you have to experiment completely by yourself. You walked the tightrope of death before gaining insights into your sword intent."


    "It was purely dependent on me. Perhaps the cultivation is very difficult but it''s also a way to harden myself," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao could not help but comment, "Brother Yun, do you know how many existences, considering the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, the imperial government and some reclusive itinerant cultivators, are at the Paramount realm in the entire world''s nineteen prefectures?"


    "I know. Nine," Qin Yun said with a smile. "Now with me, there are ten."


    "Including you, there are only ten existences in the whole wide world that is in the Paramount realm," exclaimed Yi Xiao. "Furthermore, you are still a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal. Sword immortals are well known for their powerful offensive¡­ A Connate Paramount realm sword immortals is a lot more terrifying than other Paramount realms."


    Qin Yun nodded in agreement.


    Sword immortals were capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They were indeed great at killing enemies. This was based on the cultivation system.


    For lineages like the Physical Establishing Sage, they similarly had the Physical Establishing Sage but it signified that they were good at close combat and that they had powerful physiques!


    Another example was the magus lineage. At the Paramount realm, they would be great at techniques such as hexes or Gu arts.


    Each side had their own advantages.


    A Connate Paramount realm sword immortal could leave others shuddering in fear the moment his flying sword flew out! Of course, Qin Yun had his flaws too. For example, his physique was too weak. His body could not even withstand a hex or poisonous art from an enemy. Therefore, the more powerful a sword immortal, the more they focused on defensive sword arts. Some even controlled many flying swords to protect their bodies.


    After all once a flying sword''s defense failed, their bodies would instantly be doomed.


    As for the Godfiend and Physical Establishing Sage lineages, they were much better at life-preservation than Qin Yun. Even the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma lineage could reach the Paramount realm as well! Their bodies could manifest as lightning and their speed would be peerless.


    "Brother Yun, now that you have reached the Paramount realm, how can the great fiendish demons outside pose any threat?" Yi Xiao was relieved. She had felt a little stressed in recent times.


    "There''s no rush. It won''t be too late to take action after I modify and perfect my Misty Rain Sword Art," said Qin Yun. After reaching the Paramount realm, his state of mind was naturally different.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded with a smile. "It''s almost the new year. Let''s talk about it after the new year."


    "That''s right. We are about to celebrate the new year." Qin Yun was in a very good mood too.


    The couple strolled alongside each other on the ice towards the manor. They planned to busy themselves with the new year festivities. As for the great fiendish demons lurking outside Grand Dominance City in wait? They could continue waiting outside while suffering the cold!

 180 Coercion, Persuasion

    Chapter 180: Coercion, Persuasion


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    New year''s in Grand Dominance City was extremely lively. There were fireworks and all sorts of acrobatic performances. The taverns and restaurants enjoyed a boom in business while the commoners wore their newest and most beautiful clothes. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao went everywhere in the city to enjoy the street-side snacks.


    "I loved eating candied fruit when I was young." Qin Yun said with a smile as he held a stick of candied fruit. "Back in the village, I could eat a stick of it from new year''s eve all the way to the fifth or sixth day of the new year. I would pluck one bead out, lick it greedily, and would fail to resist taking a tiny nibble. I would then wrap it back up! Back then, my younger sister would frequently finish the candied fruit early on. She would also request one bead from me, saying that she only wanted to eat one."


    Yi Xiao stayed by his side and heard Qin Yun narrate the past.


    "Unfortunately, my little sister isn''t able to see this day." Qin Yun looked at the candied fruit.


    "That water ape has been killed. You have avenged her," consoled Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Fiendish demons have wreaked havoc causing suffering throughout the world. I wonder when will the demon scourge be eliminated."


    Since time immemorial, there had been no end to the unending struggle between humans and fiendish demons.


    "It''s the new year. Let''s not talk about this. So many years have passed but I still think that candied fruit is delicious." Qin Yun smiled as he continued eating.


    "Do you hear that? The music coming from the tea shop up ahead sounds good." Yi Xiao dragged Qin Yun. "Let''s go and have a listen."


    "Let''s go."


    The couple immediately headed for the nearby tea shop.


    ¡­


    The couple enjoyed the new year greatly. Outside Grand Dominance City, great fiendish demons entrenched themselves in the forests and in the wild. Of course, they had many subordinates under them that built a residence for them. After all, these great fiendish demons were prepared. It was unlikely that Qin Yun would come out of Grand Dominance City at any time soon.


    Inside a large hall by the mountainside, Patriarch Wolf Mountain and six great fiendish demons had gathered. They represented the Cloudfiend Mountain''s lineage.


    They took their seats with Patriarch Wolf Mountain sitting in the highest spot. Beside him sat Nine Mountain Island Lord, Metallic-armed Ape Fiend, and Triclops Ghost King.


    "Everyone."


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain scanned the six fiendish demons beneath him. "Now, other than our Cloudfiend Mountain, there are many great fiendish demons targeting Qin Yun as well! With such a great commotion, it''s impossible that Qin Yun doesn''t know. His Qin Manor has three powerful array formations and a Yellow-scarved Strongman presiding over it. Clearly, he intends to make his stand in Grand Dominance City. Does anyone have any suggestions?"


    "We obviously have to smoke him out."


    "That''s right, we can''t just keep waiting here foolishly. We have to think of a way to force him out."


    The great fiendish demons echoed.


    "He''s enjoying the new year in the city but here we are, suffering from the cold." The brawny Metallic-armed Ape Fiend had a ferocious look in his eyes. He held a high status among the fiends present as he said loudly, "If you want my opinion, we should just kill! Kill those humans!"


    "I have no means of entering the city. It''s too dangerous in there," said a great fiendish demon.


    "No one is a fool. We know that there are many arrays inside the city, so who would send themselves to their deaths?" said the ape fiend with a scoff. "We shall kill humans outside the city! I heard that Qin Yun abhors evil. He has previously killed your disciple, right? Nine Mountain? That little water ape?"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord was seated in his black robe. He spoke very infrequently but at that moment, he nodded. "That disciple of mine had an ancient water ape bloodline. If he entered the river, even we would find it difficult to slay him. However, he was too careless and thought little of Qin Yun. As a result, he lost his life."


    "He killed Water Ape and the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain!" Metallic-armed Ape Fiend said disdainfully. "Since he abhors evil and he would protect those weak commoners, that''s good. When dealing with such cultivators, it''s best to use the lives of commoners as a threat. Let''s kill a thousand commoners first and let Qin Yun see. At the same time, we will announce it publicly! The entire Grand Dominance City will hear it. With each additional day he hides in Grand Dominance City, ten thousand humans will be killed. Haha¡­ Let''s see if he can tolerate it!"


    "It''s hard to tell. At his young age, that Qin Yun might really not tolerate it."


    "That''s right. With so many human lives, he will probably charge out with his eyes red," said a great fiendish demon.


    "It''s also possible that he will continue tolerating it! He would watch coldly as we kill." Triclops Ghost King suggested.


    "Then we will continue killing. We will stop only when we hit a hundred thousand." Metallic-armed Ape Fiend said, "If killing a hundred thousand doesn''t work, it means it''s a pointless endeavor! Furthermore, after killing too many, it''s almost the limit to which the imperial government can tolerate. Any more and the imperial government might no longer tolerate us."


    "The human''s imperial government? What''s there to be afraid of? We have so many great fiendish demons here, so what''s there to be afraid of them? Are they going to send ten or twenty Connate Golden Cores here to fight it out with us? Haha¡­"


    "The imperial government is probably pissing their pants when they hear that Patriarch Crocdragon is here. They wouldn''t dare participate in this. It will only happen unless the imperial government does its preparations before it comes to deal a massacre!"


    The great fiendish demons did not seem afraid in any way.


    Fiendish demons had been fighting the humans, Four Seas'' Water race, Heavenly Demon Palace for years. Why would they need to be afraid?


    Essence Soul immortals did not dare partake in the foray. And if Connate Golden Cores came, it would be a huge bout.


    "We have to inform the fiendcelestials if we are killing ordinary humans," said Patriarch Wolf Mountain. "After all, if too many are killed, it will easily anger the imperial government."


    "Don''t worry," said the ape fiend. "With the way the human imperial government works, they would first threaten. Only after two or three threats would they send large forces out."


    "I''m just afraid that Qin Yun can tolerate it and refuse to come out."


    "Then I''ll be impressed at his ruthlessness."


    ¡­


    While the various great fiendish demons were watching outside the city, there were other great fiendish demons making plans, hoping to force Qin Yun out.


    On the seventh day of the new year.


    Two people headed straight for Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance on a cloud.


    "After the new year celebrations, it''s time to visit Young Master Qin," said a purple-robed youth.


    An azure-robed middle-aged man beside him nodded and said, "Many great fiendish demons are lurking. Just from what we know, there are Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon. These two are enough to cause chaos in the world. Besides, there''s no way for us to know if there are more terrifying great fiendish demons lurking. That Qin Yun is probably extremely pressured."


    "As long as he pledges allegiance, we will naturally protect him," said the purple-robed youth with a smile.


    The duo flew and quickly arrived in Grand Dominance City. They headed straight down and flew towards Qin Manor.


    When they landed in front of Qin Manor, a servant was waiting for them at the entrance.


    "Seniors, my master invites you in," said the servant with a smile.


    "Lead the way," said the azure-robed middle-aged man.


    Soon, the both of them were escorted into Qin Manor and after walking a long while, they arrived at Qin Yun''s residence.


    After all, Qin Manor was huge now. It encompassed the entire lake.


    "Gentlemen, please have a seat." Qin Yun sat there with Yi Xiao before he said casually with a smile.


    The middle-aged man frowned slightly. Qin Yun did not stand up to welcome him? He was after all at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    The two men sat down.


    "Daoist Kun, and this must be Your Highness, Eighth Prince," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Why did the both of you suddenly come to my Qin Manor?"


    There were only that many Connate Golden Core realm cultivators in the world. Other than those reclusive few who seldom showed themselves, Qin Yun knew of most of them. Daoist Kun''s name was Kun Chen. He was a powerful subject of the imperial government and was a Connate Golden Core realm cultivator. Apart from his impressive flying escape arts, he was only considered ordinary among Connate Golden Cores.


    "I''m here to help you, Young Master Qin," said Kun Chen warmly. Eighth Prince only smiled and did not interject.


    "Help me?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    "Yes," Kun Chen said with a nod. "Young Master Qin, you should know that there are great fiendish demons watching Qin Manor outside of this city. I already know of more than ten. Among them are Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon."


    Qin Yun nodded. "There are indeed great fiendish demons targeting me."


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Cloudfiend Mountain had strength equivalent to entities at the Connate Golden Core Paramount realm! Patriarch Wolf Mountain was known as the strongest great fiendish demon in all of Jiang and Qian Prefecture. He was also the strongest fiendish demon from the Cloudfiend Mountain lineage. As for Patriarch Crocdrgon, he was infamous in the South Sea and even vexed the South Sea''s dragon race.


    However, Qin Yun was a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal as well. He naturally wasn''t afraid of the two of them.


    "These are only the confirmed ones. As for whether there are more powerful ones, our imperial government can''t confirm any. Perhaps they are hiding in secret. They might even be more powerful than Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon!" Kun Chen said softly. "Sometimes, you shouldn''t bite off more than you can chew when it comes to treasures. Being overly greedy will only attract trouble."


    "And?" asked Qin Yun.


    "His Highness''s master is Northern Ocean King," said Kun Chen with a smile. "Among the Godfiend lineage, Northern Ocean King is only second to His Majesty, the Human Emperor. If he were to protect you, it will naturally be fine."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "Those great fiendish demons do not care about immortals or fiendcelestials. Immortals and fiendcelestials are afraid of karma and they have no means of helping me."


    "You are wrong." Kun Chen said immediately. "Northern Ocean King has the means to protect you."


    "Tell me about it," said Qin Yun.


    Kun Chen said immediately, "You simply need to give half of the treasures you have to Northern Ocean King! The remaining half isn''t something you can spend either. For example, the three grand arrays you set up and the cost of hiring a Yellow-scarved Strongman! As for the remaining treasures¡­ Northern Ocean King can bestow you a Dharma bead that can conceal your treasure halo. It will be publicly announced that your treasures have been given to Northern Ocean King. And when those great fiendish demons notice that you no longer have a treasure halo, it is very likely that they will give up."


    "What if the great fiendish demons are disgruntled about it and continue taking action?" Qin Yun said with a faint smile.

 181 Brothers

    Chapter 181: Brothers


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "There probably won''t be many who would continue targeting you. Won''t you be able to fend them off by yourself, Qin Yun?" Kun Chen said with a smile.


    "You want me to fend them off myself?" Qin Yun came to a realization. "So are you implying that I give up half my treasures for Northern Ocean King''s conferment of a Dharma bead, and then, the remaining danger will be born by me? In that case, why wouldn''t I just buy a Dharma bead directly?"


    Kun Chen said immediately in response, "No, no, no. I''m not done. Northern Ocean King will also think of means to send a Godfiend Guard to follow you! You will definitely be fine when you have no treasure halo while having a Godfiend Guard with you."


    "I believe that to request the imperial government to send a Godfiend Guard to protect me wouldn''t need me to pay half the treasures." Qin Yun smiled at the duo. Yi Xiao was also watching by the side.


    Eighth Prince immediately spoke up. "Young Master Qin, it''s not that easy for the imperial government to send a Godfiend Guard. After all, the Godfiend Guard is limited. They are needed to hold down the fort in many places. If my master, Northern Ocean King, were to protect you, you will be relieved of a lot of problems in the future. Not only that, my master will be able to aid you in obtaining an official title from the imperial government."


    "Official title? I''m a cultivator, so why would I care for an official title?" Qin Yun said with a smile. "Gentlemen, if there''s nothing else, you can leave now."


    Kun Chen and Eighth Prince were startled.


    "Young Master Qin, there are numerous great fiendish demons waiting outside for you!" Kun Chen said immediately. "Are you confident about dealing with all those great fiendish demons?"


    "There''s no need for you to worry about me," replied Qin Yun.


    "Why do you do this? Wouldn''t giving up a portion of the treasure to survive be better?" Eighth Prince attempted to persuade him.


    "Gentlemen, it''s time to leave." Qin Yun''s brows knitted together.


    Kun Chen frowned and said with a deep voice, "Young Master Qin, it''s fine if you are risking yourself. But to let your wife and the entire Qin family take such risks¡­"


    At that moment, Yi Xiao was somewhat infuriated. She called out, "Show yourself, Yellow-scarved Strongman!"


    "Yes, my lady!"


    With a clear voice, the Yellow-scarved Strongman materialized beside her out of the void. He was more than ten foot tall and he wore silver armor with a yellow scarf. He exuded a majestic might and his eyes stared right at the two guests. "Mistress, do you want me to kill these two?"


    Yi Xiao did not say a word. All she did was look at Kun Chen and Eighth Prince. Qin Yun also simply watched from the side.


    Kun Chen and Eighth Prince had a sudden change in expression as they immediately stood up.


    "Qin Yun, those great fiendish demons would not give up that easily," said Kun Chen. "Your Highness, let''s leave."


    Phew.


    The duo immediately departed on a cloud with their tails in between their legs. Only after they flew more than fifty kilometers away did they heave a sigh of relief.


    "Without any warning, she summoned the Yellow-scarved Strongman." Kun Chen gnashed his teeth. "That Qin Yun did not intend to negotiate at all. Does he not fear those great fiendish demons?"


    "From the way he looked so confident, he must have decided to hide in Grand Dominance City to be a cowardly turtle, never to come out. If not, he has the Divine Firmament Chapter backing him." Eight Prince also said with a frown. "His wife is named Yi Xiao. Before Qin Yun said a word, she had directly summoned the Yellow-scarved Strongman. She dares to treat us with such disrespect. She is nothing but a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple at the Connate False Core realm."


    The both of them were of high standing. Eighth Prince was nearly two hundred years old. He had also reached the Connate Golden Core realm and so had Kun Chen too.


    They felt disgraced that Qin Yun had chased them out.


    "Wasn''t he just lucky to obtain some treasures?" Kun Chen sneered. "Even if he is talented and has potential, potential is just potential after all¡­ Forget it, let''s return to report this matter to Northern Ocean King."


    "Let''s go." Eighth Prince replied.


    ¡­


    There were quite a number of immortals and fiendcelestials that eyed Qin Yun''s treasures. However, most of them could only convey their intentions via a third party! After all, immortals and fiendcelestials did not dare to implicate themselves with great karma. That was something that could rob them of their lives. Since they were unable to take action themselves, even if they wanted to help Qin Yun, they had to employ the help of the Golden Cores under them or their sect''s powers.


    Connate Golden Cores would respectfully obey immortals and fiendcelestials in order to receive guidance on their cultivation or for treasures. However, to get them to risk their lives? It was extremely difficult.


    ******


    In a commoner''s house situated in Jia''an County''s Tongfu Provincial City in Qian Prefecture, a thin girl was hiding inside the house. She was carefully peeking through a crack in the door. The corner of her eyes had fish scales and her pupils were yellowish.


    "Swoosh."


    A figure silently appeared in the compound''s yard. The thin girl immediately opened the door happily when she saw the familiar figure.


    The figure was a man dressed in a plain robe. His hair and mustache were rather messy but he retained a scholarly air. He smiled at the girl and in a few steps walked forward to hold her. "My dear daughter, quickly come in. I''ll share with you some good news."


    The moment he entered the house, he closed the door.


    "Godfather, what''s the good news?" The girl could not help but ask.


    "You''re saved! You are saved!" The scholarly man had a gloomy look but his expression was a happy one. "Didn''t I tell you before? I have a good brother named Qin Yun. He is an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador! But three years ago, I heard that he was trapped in a dire situation and nothing was heard of him thereafter. Just today, I heard that my brother has already come out and returned to Grand Dominance."


    He was a cultivator that had yet to enter the Connate realm after all. His ability to obtain information was definitely worse than the top factions in the world! Only today did he learn of Qin Yun''s return to Grand Dominance.


    "Will he come to save us?" The girl could not help but ask. "You said he''s in Grand Dominance."


    "Yes, he will! As long as I send him a letter, he will definitely¡ªUgh." The scholarly man could not help but cough out a mouthful of black blood to the side.


    "Godfather! Godfather¡­" The girl panicked.


    "Cough. That great demon was indeed powerful." After coughing out blood, his gloomy look turned pale. He looked at the girl and stretched out his hand to caress her face with a smile. "My dear daughter. Don''t be afraid. Once my brother comes, everything will be alright."


    As he spoke, he took out a piece of paper and a brush.


    He was adept at drawing talisman charms, so he naturally carried a brush and paper with him.


    "Lunatic Yun, I won''t be living long. Before I die, I have a request for you. I have never liked to request anything of others in my life but for this matter, I plead you to help me once¡­"


    The scholarly man wrote a letter.


    As he wrote, he could not help but continue coughing. He immediately covered his mouth but a few drops of blood splattered onto the letter.


    "¡­All I have is this daughter of mine. She is a young demoness. She''s very kind¡­"


    "¡­After seeing this letter, please come to Jia''an County''s Tongfu Provincial City. It''s an ordinary house at the end of Biluo Alley. My daughter is hiding there. Lunatic Yun, please. You must, must help me this once¡­"


    After he finished writing the letter, he sealed the letter into an envelope.


    "Godfather, Godfather, didn''t you say your injury wasn''t a problem?" The girl could sense that her adopted father''s breathing was turning weaker.


    She had suffered among the demons.


    Instead, a lonely cultivator had treated her as a family member. Over the past few years of spending time together, she had treated the man before her as the most important relative in her life. He was the only person in the world that treated her well.


    "My dear daughter." The scholarly man looked at the thin girl. The light in his eyes seemed extinguished as his pale face forced a smile. "I wouldn''t dare to die without letting you escape. Today, I know my brother is coming. He will definitely save you and I can finally be assured. I, Fu Qing, can rest in peace for having a daughter like you."


    "Godfather, Godfather. I don''t want you to die. No!" The thin girl hugged Fu Qing.


    He looked at his daughter.


    All his life¡­


    He had studied arduously and was a successful candidate in the imperial examinations at the provincial level. However, his wife had eloped with his good friend. His elderly mother was so exasperated that she died half a year later.


    Being lonely by himself, he decided to enter the Daoist movement to distance himself from the mortal world. Although he was old, he had eaten some treasured herbs, allowing him to knock open the gate of immortality at the age of thirty.


    Later, he roamed the world alone and went to the northern borders. Filled with zeal, he withstood the fiendish demon horde with his brothers-in-arms.


    Those were the best days of his life. They could entrust their lives to their brothers.


    But in half a year, he was severely injured and was forced to leave.


    After all, it was too difficult to last long in the northern borders.


    When he later returned to his hometown, alone and injured, he saved a young demoness. He did not think much of it in the beginning but as time passed, he began to treat her as a family member. His marriage with his wife was short and without offspring. The young demoness ended up giving him the feeling of being a father.


    After living together for a few years, his daughter was eventually discovered by a great demon. The great demon began sending demons to capture her. He naturally did his best to protect her and they escaped to Tongfu Province.


    He did not dare to die unless his daughter was out of harm! Although he had been heavily injured by the great demon, he had miraculously lasted to this day.


    "I''ll send the letter. I''ll be back after sending it," said the scholarly man. "Wait for me. You must not go out."


    "Alright." The girl nodded immediately.


    Following that, the man left in silence again.


    ¡­


    An hour later.


    He came back.


    "Godfather." The girl opened the door. He smiled when he saw her before collapsing straight to the ground.


    "Godfather! Godfather!" The girl hugged him.


    "Don''t go out. Wait. Wait for my brother to come. He will save you." He looked at the thin girl and said his last words. "Live well. You must live on."


    "Godfather! Godfather!" The girl''s face was covered in tears.


    As the scholarly man looked at his daughter''s face, he felt her sobbing turn increasingly distant.


    ******


    A letter took less than a day to travel from Qian Prefecture to Jiang Prefecture.


    That night, it reached Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor.


    "Haha¡­ Scholar sent me a letter." Qin Yun smiled when he saw the envelope. However, he caught a whiff of blood. He frowned slightly before opening the envelope.


    When he opened to read the letter, Qin Yun''s expression changed. His hand could not help but tremble as the letter in his hand fell to the ground.

 182 Your Fathers Brother

    Chapter 182: Your Father''s Brother


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s eyes could not help but moisten as he murmured softly. "Scholar."


    ¡­


    "Scholar, now that you are leaving, I wonder when we will meet again." Seven years ago in the northern borderlands, Qin Yun and company were sending Scholar off.


    "I''m all alone and have the world as my abode. We will meet again if fate allows it."


    "Take care."


    "Scholar, take care."


    Large bowls of alcohol were drunk as a send off for their brother.


    The cold northern weather made it so that ancient trail was freezing, but Scholar only wore an old shirt and carried a bag as he left on his own.


    Qin Yun and company watched him leave till they could no longer see him.


    ¡­


    Beside him, Yi Xiao noticed Qin Yun''s expression. She immediately asked, "Brother Yun, what''s the matter?" As she spoke, she curiously picked up the letter from the floor.


    "Xiaoxiao, I will be going to Qian Prefecture. Now. Immediately." Qin Yun''s face was already somewhat pale.


    Yi Xiao understood the moment she read the letter.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "Ready yourself and go. I will remain here."


    "I''ll leave the family to you." Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and said seriously, "If there''s anything, send me a message. Also, remember: do not leave the city."


    "Don''t worry! Grand Dominance is currently impregnable," said Yi Xiao immediately. "But great fiendish demons might discover you when you leave."


    "It would be the perfect chance to unleash myself." Qin Yun was feeling disconsolate. He was even more bent on killing those great fiendish demons.


    "Alright. I have to get there as fast as possible. Perhaps...perhaps Scholar might still be saved." Qin Yun looked at his wife.


    Yi Xiao exhorted, "Be careful."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    Phew.


    He immediately flew off.


    Under the protection of Qin Manor''s defensive arrays, Qin Yun flew into the clouds. First, he converged his aura and cast an Invisibility Spell. Then, he silently flew out about fifty kilometers before using the Beam Transformation Art.


    "Whew!"


    A beam streaked across the sky and headed straight for the south.


    Qin Yun was now at the Paramount realm and had cultivated the Beam Transformation Art to the highest ninth level! His flying art was astonishingly fast.


    "Scholar, you have to wait for me. Wait for me to come," Qin Yun said quietly to himself. He was flying so fast that the swirling air around him distorted.


    ¡­


    In a mountain forest outside Grand Dominance City.


    A blind elder had his eyes covered by a piece of cloth. However, his ears were moving as he listened in a particular direction.


    "Qin Yun is out?"


    The blind elder could clearly lock onto a figure tens of kilometers away. He could ''see'' Qin Yun''s face clearly.


    "How gutsy he is. He actually dares to come out." The blind elder chuckled. Following that, he transformed into a black stream of light that tore through the sky in pursuit.


    ¡­


    "What? He actually dares come out?" A great fiendish demon that was lurking underground suddenly poked its head up from the mud. His eyes were strange in that they had three concentric pupils. He looked up into the distance, and very clearly saw Qin Yun, who had just entered the clouds.


    Phew.


    Turning his body, he transformed into a robed man. He chuckled. "Perhaps, I can take all of his treasures for myself."


    He also transformed into a black wind as he rapidly gave chase.


    ¡­


    At that moment, only the two great fiendish demons had noticed Qin Yun.


    Although there were many great fiendish demons keeping watch, there were only a handful that were both extremely good at probing and could detect Qin Yun''s actions from tens of kilometers away. Furthermore, they needed to rest. For example, the Triclops Ghost King from Cloudfiend Mountain was resting. Another great fiendish demon was responsible for monitoring in his place.


    After all, keeping constant watch was tiring. No one knew how long Qin Yun would hide in the city.


    "What? His speed is that fast?"


    The blind elder and the robed elder were pursuing Qin Yun, but after Qin Yun used Beam Transformation Art, they were astounded.


    The Beam Transformation Art was too fast!


    "Sword immortals can use Sword Kinesis Flight but it shouldn''t be this fast. I''m a bat demon and have been flying since birth. Yet, my speed is incomparable to his." The blind elder turned anxious. He could sense that Qin Yun was extending the gap between them. He was one of the faster ones among Connate Golden Core fiendish demons, but even so he was only moving about fifty to sixty percent of Qin Yun''s speed.


    "Why is he so fast? He''s much faster than me." Although the robed man was surprised, he did not panic. His eyes had those odd concentric pupils. Despite the great distance, he could still see Qin Yun clearly.


    "As long as I¡¯m locked onto him, there''s no way he can escape me without creating five thousand kilometers of distance." The robed man stared at Qin Yun and continued his pursuit.


    Although the distance between them was widening, the robed man kept up his slow flight. He had completely locked onto Qin Yun.


    150 kilometers, 200 kilometers, 250 kilometers¡­


    "Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect?" The blind elder secretly followed the robed man. A smile suffused across the blind elder''s mouth. "Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect is an ancient mutated ''K?itigarbha Hound.'' He can hear the slightest movement in a five hundred kilometer range and see every scene within five thousand kilometers. As long as he¡¯s locked onto Qin Yun, there is no need to fear Qin Yun escaping. However, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect is stronger than me. I have to call for help."


    ******


    Qin Yun''s soul was powerful and he had reached the Paramount realm, so how sharp were his senses?


    Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect had locked onto him and his dogged pursuit allowed Qin Yun to notice the feeling of being ''watched.''


    Qin Yun did not care about them at first. He believed that with his Beam Transformation Art, he could shirk them off. However, after flying a thousand kilometers, the feeling of eyes on him remained.


    "He has been pursuing me all this time? Could his flying art be comparable to mine?" Qin Yun found it somewhat unbelievable. Very few people in the Connate Golden Core could chase up to him at the ninth level of the Beam Transformation Art. The only person he could think of that would definitely catch him was Jiang Prefecture''s Palatial Lord Essence Charm. After all, he had Lightning Manifestation, and its flying art was unparalleled.


    "Hmph, continue chasing then."


    "If they attack, I''ll just kill them in passing." Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a sharp glint. He ignored them for he could only think of his brother.


    Shoo!


    He flew the entire journey.


    After flying out of Grand Dominance and traveling a straight-line distance of three thousand kilometers, Qin Yun came to a halt.


    "Tongfu Province." Qin Yun overlooked the small provincial city beneath him.


    Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County''s Tongfu Province was a journey of five thousand kilometers on foot! However, Qin Yun flew the straight line distance and reached it after covering three thousand kilometers.


    "Swoosh."


    He gradually landed.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword appeared from his sleeve. With it, he began scanning the entire provincial city.


    After being trapped in the immortal abode for three years, Qin Yun''s soul could match a Connate Golden Core through the Golden Core Outer core''s nourishment. His Heaven and Earth powers allowed him to perceive a radius of a hundred and fifty kilometers! And after attaining the Paramount realm, his sword intent Paramount realm also honed his soul. With his high cultivation realm, his Heaven and Earth powers could sense a staggering range of three hundred kilometers!


    Of course, using the enveloping Heaven and Earth powers was a rather crude way of sensing. If he truly used his Intrinsic Flying Sword to envelop an area with his psyche, he could only span fifteen kilometers!


    Fifteen kilometers! Everything within that range could be observed.


    A small provincial city was only about five kilometers in diameter.


    "Phew! Phew! Phew!" Every corner of the provincial city was under observation. Be they high officials, wealthy merchants, or poor beggars, all of them were under his surveillance. He was pretty much at the epitome of Connate Golden Core realm cultivators to be able to sense fifteen kilometers with a single thought.


    "Scholar."


    Standing above the provincial city at night, Qin Yun''s face turned white suddenly.


    He saw what he was looking for. He saw Scholar.


    ¡­


    In a house at the end of Biluo Alley in Tongfu Province.


    Scholar lay on a bed.


    A thin girl was kneeling beside him with tears in her eyes. She could not find funeral garb, sp only tore a piece of white cloth to tie around her waist and head.


    "Swoosh."


    A figure appeared inside the house.


    The thin girl turned her head and saw a black-robed youth standing there. His red eyes were looking at the deceased on the bed.


    "Scholar, why? Why are you dead when we reunite as brothers? Why didn''t you tell me earlier? Why didn''t you?" Qin Yun''s voice was trembling. Tears flowed out of his eyes as he walked toward the bed and gazed at the peaceful look on the man''s face.


    Scholar.


    He had a very mild temper, perhaps overly mild. With his scholastic way of talking, Qin Yun and company always called him Scholar.


    Scholar never got angry. He was a man of fewest words among the squad but he had never shrunk back in times of need. Over time, and without realizing it, Qin Yun and company got to be familiar with the silent but chuckling intellectual, who was a little old and a little overly scholastic. Despite his temperament, he had ardor and zeal coursing through his blood that motivated him to slay demons at the risk of his life.


    He only left because he was forced to after taking a severe injury.


    Scholar had once shared his story when he was drunk. In the past, he had been a successful candidate for the provincial civil exams! He had married a beautiful wife! Then one day, he lonelily decided to exit the mortal world and lead a Daoist life¡­


    "Scholar, Lunatic Yun is here. I came late." Qin Yun felt extremely pained.


    Many of the brothers he had walked the tightrope of death with had died on the battlefields.


    There were few who survived!


    Separated by death, Qin Yun recalled the painful memories of seeing his comrades die on the battlefield.


    A brother of his that looked fine and well seemed to appear before his eyes.


    "Don''t worry. I will definitely do what you entrusted me. Scholar, you implored me to do it, so how can I, Lunatic Yun, disappoint you?" Qin Yun lifted his head up slightly and closed his eyes. Dharmic powers evaporated his tears before he turned to look at the thin girl. She had scales around her eyes and face. It was proof that she was not human but a lesser demoness.


    "What''s your name?" Qin Yun looked at her.


    "My name is Fu Sizhuo. My father''s name is Fu Qing." She lifted her head and said solemnly. "I only have one father."


    When Scholar died, she had vowed that she only had one father from that day forth!


    "Fu Sizhuo, Fu Sizhuo¡­" Qin Yun nodded gently. "Let us bury your father so that he may rest in peace. Following that, I will avenge him."


    Fu Sizhuo nodded immediately and said, "Are¡­ Are you my father''s good friend, Uncle Qin?"


    "Yes, my name is Qin Yun. Your father''s brother." Qin Yun nodded.

 183 Yellow Wyrm Lake

    Chapter 183: Yellow Wyrm Lake


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at the thin girl and asked, "In the letter your father sent me, he mentioned that you are being pursued by demons. Can you tell me more about it? Also, your father died from serious injuries. Who was the one that injured him?"


    Qin Yun had rushed there using Beam Transformation Art, hoping to have a chance of saving his good friend. After all, he still had the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill and other restorative treasures.


    But when he arrived, he realized that Scholar had already been dead for a while. Even his soul had dispersed.


    If Scholar''s soul was still around, the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill could still revive him.


    "I¡­" The thin girl hesitated before saying under her breath, "I was originally a lesser demoness in Pear Blossom Pool. But one day, a powerful demon stormed the place. My mother took me away in a desperate attempt to escape, but she was eventually killed by demons while fending them off. I had no choice but to continue escaping. I encountered Godfather, who is my present father. I have been with Father for five years."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Why were they chasing you?"


    "My mother told me that my birth father is Flood Dragon King of Qian Prefecture''s Yellow Wyrm Lake," said the girl softly. "The demons are pursuing me because of Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace. I don¡¯t know anything past that. The one that seriously injured Father was General Crab, a great demon sent by Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace!"


    "Yellow Wyrm Lake?" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed a cold glint.


    The girl continued immediately, "Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace is the strongest Water race in Qian Prefecture."


    "I know. That old flood dragon has long reached the Connate Golden Core realm. The yellow flood dragon lineage¡­ is one of the more famous ones among the Water race. Logically speaking, that Flood Dragon King would not kill a daughter like you. Perhaps, someone else in Flood Dragon Palace has given the command." Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. There were many members of the Water race in the world.


    There was no need to elaborate on the Four Seas'' Dragon race. They were the strongest ethnic group.


    The prosperous Four Seas'' Dragon race could match the entire human race. They also controlled the Four Seas.


    And on land, there were the lakes and rivers! Some lakes stretched out for thousands of kilometers and were basically mini oceans in the middle of the land. Some Water race great demons disliked being controlled by the Four Seas'' Dragon race, so they would rather reign as monarchs and overlords of certain huge lakes!


    Some of them were even collateral relatives to the Four Seas'' Dragon race.


    With individual rivers or lakes having their respective Dragon Kings, there was quite a number.


    The yellow flood dragon lineage was also a collateral relative of the Dragon race. Although their bloodline wasn''t pure, they had a long history. They had occupied Yellow Wyrm Lake for tens of thousands of years.


    "Uncle Qin," whispered the girl. "I know Yellow Wyrm Lake is powerful and I do not wish to burden you. Uncle, all I ask is that you send me to another prefecture and I''ll live under a different name."


    With her mother dead and her adopted father, who treated her extremely well, also dead, she no longer wished to be a burden on others.


    "Burden me? Just because of the yellow flood dragons?" Qin Yun shook his head. "Don''t worry. With me here, that Flood Dragon King won¡¯t dare try anything."


    The girl was taken aback.


    Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King was the leader of the Qian Prefecture''s Water race!


    "Whoever wants to kill you and whoever sent their subordinates to take my brother¡¯s life, I will see to it that they meet with justice. I will even have a nice chat with that Flood Dragon King." Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. He would not give in that easily.


    The girl was shocked and perplexed. If what she heard from her adopted father was true, wasn''t Uncle Qin just an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador? Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King was not someone even most Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors would wish to offend.


    "Yellow Wyrm." Qin Yun repeated the name silently, to remember it.


    "By the way, I know your father''s hometown is in Jia''an County City. Do you know where his family grave is?" asked Qin Yun.


    The girl nodded immediately. "I do. I would accompany Father to the graves to burn incense money every year. It''s at Mt. Blue Granny outside Jia''an County City."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun looked at the peaceful-looking Scholar. he said, "Scholar, don''t worry. Leave everything to me."


    Phew.


    Qin Yun focused his mind.


    Scholar''s body floated upwards.


    Following that, Qin Yun cast a tiny Dharma spell with a thought. Scholar''s body was set aflame and began burning. However, the flames did not affect the bed or the other surrounding items. After all, everything was contained within Qin Yun''s sword intent domain. He was in perfect control.


    Fu Sizhuo knelt down and looked at Scholar''s corpse with tearing eyes. "Father."


    Qin Yun only watched silently.


    Moments later.


    Scholar''s ashes were placed in an urn. Qin Yun handed the urn to the girl and said, "It''s best you carry it yourself."


    "Yes." The girl hugged it tightly.


    "Is there anything else you need to bring along?" asked Qin Yun.


    "No." The girl shook her head. "We came here while fleeing for our lives."


    "Alright, let''s go."


    Qin Yun immediately summoned his powers.


    Phew.


    He controlled a cloud to carry the girl. They flew out of the residential compound and headed for Jia''an County City.


    There were two lesser demons on a hill outside of Tongfu Provincial City. Their eyes suffused blue light as they looked around listlessly.


    "Who knows where that fish demoness has hidden. A provincial city is where humans reside after all. All we can do is search carefully. If we cause a stir, we might attract human Inspector Heavenly Ambassadors."


    "She¡¯s only a mere fish demoness and we have pursued her for this long! Even we are suffering after all this time."


    The duo was looking around.


    Suddenly, one of them widened his eyes and looked into the sky. "Look! Look! It''s that little fish demoness."


    "It''s her! It''s really her!"


    They could clearly see a black-robed youth accompanying the thin girl on a cloud. The girl was even carrying a tiny jar.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun did not converge his aura nor did he cast an Invisibility Spell. He led the young demoness in open flight as if to deliberately attract the demons that were chasing after her! Only by attracting them would he able to follow the breadcrumbs and find the instigator.


    As for danger?


    The most powerful demon in all of Qian Prefecture was Patriarch Wolf Mountain! And he was still waiting in Grand Dominance County for him! Besides, Qin Yun was unfazed by Patriarch Wolf Mountain, much less a mere Yellow Wyrm Lake faction.


    "Demons are coming." Qin Yun sensed it. He was in no hurry to fly off. Instead, he deliberately waited for them.


    Phew.


    Five avian demons flew over from a distance and blocked their paths.


    "Human, quickly hand over that young fish demoness." The leader of the demons noticed that Qin Yun was flying with a cloud, which meant that Qin Yun was likely a Connate realm cultivator. So he did not dare to charge in directly. Instead, he shouted from afar. "We are subordinates of Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King. We have orders. As a human, it''s best you do not interfere."


    "The five of them have been chasing me constantly. Father fought with them but was helpless because they could fly." The young girl whispered while standing beside Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Although Flood Dragon King was a member of the Water race, he was ultimately a great demon at the Connate Golden Core level. He naturally had many avian demons under his command. Furthermore, Yellow Wyrm Lake spanned more than five hundred kilometers so it was common to see avian demons fly over the lake.


    "Five avian demons. There are demons below too." Qin Yun''s psyche could emanate fifteen kilometers through his Intrinsic Flying Sword, so he naturally discovered more than ten demons.


    "Quickly hand over the young fish demoness or when our general comes, it will be too late for regret." The leader of the demons threatened. Another avian demons added, "Cultivator, do you want to make an enemy out of our Yellow Wyrm Lake?"


    Although they were hollering threats, none of them dared to charge forward.


    "Your general?" Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!


    The five avian demons felt an indomitable strength sweep towards them. All their hearts were shattered as they immediately spat out blood while plummeting, revealing their true forms on the way down.


    Qin Yun intended to kill those who had pursued Scholar.


    However, he was afraid he would scare General Crab away if he was too forceful. Therefore, he had killed the lesser demons with ordinary attacks.


    "I''m protecting this young fish demoness. If you want to find me, you can go to Mt. Blue Granny outside Jia''an County City." Qin Yun''s voice rumbled downwards.


    Following that, he flew away with the young demoness while the demons on the ground watched from afar.


    "How arrogant."


    "It has always been us from the Yellow Wyrm Lake killing humans. When have humans ever dared to provoke our Yellow Wyrm Lake?"


    These demons were enraged.


    "He can conjure a cloud for flight. That means he must be a Connate realm cultivator. Let''s quickly report this to General."


    "Yes, report it to General."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun naturally planned to avenge Scholar. The first person to destroy was the murderer¡ªGeneral Crab! Next would be the mastermind behind the matter!


    After traveling for a hundred kilometers, they arrived in Mt. Blue Granny outside Jia''an County City.


    "Swoosh."


    Together with the demoness, Qin Yun descended on the cloud.


    The sky was gradually brightening and dawn could already be seen along the eastern horizon.


    "Uncle Qin, follow me." The demoness was familiar with the desolate mountain. Mt. Blue Granny had many graves.


    Soon.


    "This is Father''s family grave." She pointed at a bunch of tombstones. Most of them had the family name, ''Fu'' engraved on them.


    "This is Grandma''s tomb." The demoness came to a rather large tomb. It was made of a large amount of rock. Back then, Scholar was a successful examination candidate. He was wealthy, so when his mother passed away she was naturally given a grand burial.


    The demoness pointed at an empty spot beside the tomb. "Father told me that when he died, he wants to be buried here, right beside Grandma."

 184 Outskirts of Jiasan County City, Mt. Blue Granny

    Chapter 184: Outskirts of Jia''an County City, Mt. Blue Granny


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun stood there solemnly and dug up a grave with his sword intent domain. He was even able to dig it very deeply. He easily sliced through the mountain rocks and, with another beckon of his hand, felled a towering tree. Then, he carved the tree into wooden planks and fastened them together through mortise and tenon work. Soon, he had constructed an entire coffin. Finally, he cast a Dharma spell on the coffin that marked its surface with runic patterns.


    Phew.


    The coffin was lowered into the grave with the lid temporarily opened.


    "Place your father''s ashes into it," said Qin Yun.


    "Okay."


    The young demoness jumped into the grave and carefully placed the urn into the coffin. She took out some clothes, paper, and brushes from the bag she carried on her back. They were items often used by her adopted father. With tears streaming down her cheeks, the girl slowly covered the coffin''s lid.


    Qin Yun watched quietly.


    When the demoness climbed out, Qin Yun carved a boulder on a distant mountain into large slabs of stone. He constructed a grand tomb that was similar to the tomb of Scholar''s mother.


    He erected a headstone.


    "I''ll erect this headstone in your name." Qin Yun looked at the demoness. She gave a solemn nod.


    Immediately, text began to appear on the headstone. The upper text read: Tomb of Father Fu Qing. And beneath it in a smaller font were the words: Daughter Fu Sizhuo.


    "Father." The demoness knelt there.


    Qin Yun looked at the tomb and said softly, "Scholar, you always claimed to be alone and that wherever you were was where your home was. Eventually, you gave up your life for this young demoness. Rest now, knowing that she has acknowledged you as a father and she is willing to wear funeral garbs to show her filial piety."


    "I¡­ I did not bring any scented candles or paper money." The demoness sounded flustered. "I do not have the paper money that needs to be burned for Father."


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The second-grade flying sword, Heavy Sand Sword, wrapped five spindles of silver and rapidly flew off to the nearby Jia''an County City.


    It was the very beginning of the morning, so the coffin store in Jia''an County City had just opened for business. The apprentice was still sweeping the floor.


    "Swoosh."


    A flying sword tore through the air and entered the store.


    "I''ll be buying a few things. I have the silver here." A voice sounded.


    "Customer¡­" The apprentice looked up and saw a flying sword floating in front of him. He could not help but jump in fright. Following that, a spindle of silver flew over.


    "Here''s the silver."


    The voice was still sounding.


    The flying sword released its Dharmic powers, pulling scented candles, paper money, and other necessary items to it before departing.


    The apprentice held the silver in a daze. He looked at the silver in his hands as the surroundings items flew away.


    "Master! Master! An immortal came!" The apprentice immediately shouted loudly.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere in Jia''an County City, the flying sword bought ready-made food from a restaurant. There was an entire chicken, an entire duck, and a pig''s head. A spindle of silver was similarly thrown to the attendant there¡­


    Soon, the flying sword returned with many items.


    The flying sword''s trip didn''t take long.


    Qin Yun looked up and beckoned with his hand, allowing the flying sword to enter his sleeve. A large number of scented candles and paper money landed at his side. The Three Poultry and many plates of pastry were placed nicely.


    There was a set of funeral garb for the young demoness too. She put it on and knelt.


    The scented candles were lit, and paper money was burnt. Soon, smoke began to billow.


    "Uncle Qin." The demoness looked at Qin Yun. "Father has no relatives besides me. I wish to observe a mourning period for my father. I do not want to take up too much of your time. All I need is three days. The mourning period will last three days."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. "Let the mourning period be three days. After all, there are demons pursuing you. I have to resolve your problem as soon as possible. I promised your father I would."


    The demoness nodded.


    It was common for the mourning period that children observed to last three days. There were also some who would observe it for three years.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun turned to look.


    A distance away, an armored great demon holding a trident rode over on a cloud with an air of majesty. Two lesser demons followed on either side.


    "General, look. There he is."


    "The young fish demoness is there too," shouted a lesser demon.


    The armored demon looked down with his trident in hand. He sneered. "This fish demoness has been fleeing for years. The last time I discovered her, that cultivator named Fu Qing was a little problematic. Now, I have found her again! However, that black-robed cultivator beside her actually dares to intervene. Is he another one that isn''t afraid of death?"


    General Crab was one of the accomplished generals of Yellow Wyrm Lake. He was also one of the strongest Connate False Core realm demons. He was under orders by Grand General Summon Thunder to find the fish demoness.


    "That cultivator." General Crab observed Qin Yun from a high altitude. After some time, he was certain of one thing. "I know all the powerful cultivators in the surrounding counties. He''s not any of them."


    ¡­


    "It''s that General Crab." Fu Sizhuo''s eyes turned red when she saw him.


    "He was the one that mortally wounded Scholar?" Qin Yun looked up.


    "Yes, it''s him. He''s very powerful. Father said that he stands atop those in the Connate False Core realm," said Fu Sizhuo immediately.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Scholar had been forged in the crucible of battle in the northern borderlands after all. He was definitely capable of battling ordinary Connate False Core great demons.


    "Human, how dare you interfere with the matters of our Yellow Wyrm Lake. State your name." General Crab shouted when he landed.


    Qin Yun had become famous very quickly, so many people knew his name. However, very few people had seen him with their own eyes or knew him by his looks.


    "Quickly tell us who you are." The two demons beside General Crab hollered incessantly.


    "Phew." Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    Under his sword intent domain, the two lesser demons beside General Crab were pulverized.


    This made General Crab¡¯s eyes go wide. He did not see any Dharma spells or moves used. Yet, his subordinates were instantly pulverized? General Crab could not help but shudder in fear.


    "It¡¯s a case of mistaken identity! Really! I won''t be disturbing either of you any further." General Crab immediately bowed and gave an obsequious smile. He turned in an attempt to escape.


    "You want to leave?" Suddenly, a horrifying power bound General Crab. It was the power that stemmed from the sword intent domain. General Crab could not put up a struggle at all.


    "Spare me!" General Crab struggled with all his might but failed to escape from the domain''s grasp. He could not help but shout in panic.


    Sou!


    General Crab was pulled back as he was bound by the sword intent domain. He plopped to the ground, sprawled in front of a tombstone.


    General Crab looked up and saw the text on the tombstone.


    "Fu Qing? That cultivator is dead?" General Crab had a sudden realization, so he turned to look at Qin Yun and said immediately. "Oh Accomplished One, I have no grudge against you¡­"


    "I''m asking you. Who ordered you to kill this young demoness?" asked Qin Yun. "If you answer any slower, your life will be at stake."


    "Grand General Summon Thunder," said General Crab immediately. "My Yellow Wyrm Lake has a total of six Grand Generals. Grand General Summon Thunder is one of them. He''s a great demon at the Connate True Core realm. He''s much more powerful than me. He simply needs to exhale and¡ª"


    "Shut up." Qin Yun frowned.


    General Crab immediately shut up.


    "Who ordered Grand General Summon Thunder?" asked Qin Yun again.


    "That I do not know. It appears to be a highly confidential matter," General Crab muttered under his breath. "Anyways, it has to be someone from Flood Dragon Palace. I did not dare to seek out more information on this matter. Accomplished One, that''s all I can tell you. Please spare me."


    "This scholar named Fu Qing was my brother," Qin Yun said. "And you, you caused his death."


    General Crab''s expression changed. He gritted his teeth and said under his breath, "I''m one of the generals of Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Water race you know. If you kill me, my Flood Dragon King would definitely be enraged."


    "Don''t worry. I will have a good chat with your Flood Dragon King. I want him to answer to me. As for you, accompany my brother in death!" Qin Yun waved his hand as a sword beam instantly penetrated General Crab''s body. General Crab yelled out before collapsing to the side, transforming into a gigantic hairy crab with thick hair on its claws. It lay there with blood flowing out of it.


    ¡­


    In a mountain not far from Jia''an County City''s outskirts.


    "Grand General! Grand General." Three avian demons rushed straight into the mountain valley.


    "What''s the matter?"


    Grand General Summon Thunder was an extremely fat man. Beside him were two great demons.


    "General Crab has died. He was killed."


    "The young demoness was rescued by a cultivator."


    "He died almost instantly."


    The three avian demons said with great urgency.


    Grand General Summon Thunder frowned as he pointed at one of the avian demons. "You, tell me in detail. The rest of you, shut up."


    The avian demon immediately explained in detail, "That young demoness was rescued by a mysterious cultivator. She was on Mt. Blue Granny outside Jia''an County City when General Crab took two demon leaders to deal with her. We were watching from afar and saw General Crab killed with our own eyes. That mysterious cultivator and the demoness are still there on Mt. Blue Granny."


    "Oh? Let''s go to Mt. Blue Granny and take a look. In Qian Prefecture, few people would dare to slight our Yellow Wyrm Lake," said Grand General Summon Thunder.


    "Grand General, a storm brews when you take action. That cultivator is doomed." The two great demons fawned on him.


    "Let''s go."


    Grand General Summon Thunder immediately conjured a wind to carry the two great demons, as well as the three avian demons. "The three of you, show me the way."


    Connate True Core realm demons like the Grand General could dominate an entire area. After all, there were only a few Connate Golden Core cultivators in Qian Prefecture. With the Flood Dragon Palace backing them, it was only natural for Grand General Summon Thunder to be arrogant.


    ¡­


    A black ice-cold wind howled as it tore through the sky at a terrifying speed. Of course, the speed at which it was flying was only considered ordinary among Connate Golden Cores.


    Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was within the black wind as he headed straight for Jia''an County.


    He had three concentric pupils in his eyes, allowing him to clearly see Qin Yun and the young demoness who were on Mt. Blue Granny five hundred kilometers away.


    "This Qin Yun''s flying art sure is fast. I''ve been chasing him for so long and there''s still five hundred kilometers left." Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect thought to himself. "Thankfully, he has stopped. I''ll soon arrive. I will be the first to arrive and the first to kill Qin Yun. All the treasures will be mine!"


    Behind Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, there were three Connate Golden Core fiendish demons following in secret. One of them had strength that was in no way inferior to Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect. They did not know where Qin Yun was and could only secretly follow Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect.


    "That Qin Yun sure can fly. He has already flown out of Jiang Prefecture."


    "That''s good, though. How long will it take for those old monsters outside Grand Dominance City to rush here when they learn the news? Haha, this time, the treasures will go to the three of us."


    ¡­


    Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Grand General Summon Thunder with his demons, as well as the great fiendish demons from all over the world were rushing towards Mt. Blue Granny on the Jia''an County City''s outskirts.

 185 Attack of the Great Fiendish Demons Part 1/2

    Grand General Summon Thunder brought his subordinates along as they flew for the entire journey.


    "Grand General, up ahead is Mt. Blue Granny." The three avian demons led the way. However, they felt somewhat apprehensive. After all, General Crab had just been easily killed by this same cultivator.


    "Alright, the three of you are dismissed," commanded Grand General Summon Thunder with a frown.


    "Yes, yes, yes."


    The three avian demons quickly departed.


    "Look at how frightened the three of them are." The two demon generals laughed as well. One of them carried a saber by his waist and had fur on his face. He warned, "Grand General, if that cultivator could easily kill Brother Crab, he might very well be a Connate True Core cultivator. We must not let our guard down."


    "What''s there to be afraid of? Grand General cultivations in the ''Wind and Thunder Mystic Arts.'' Most Connate True Cores will not even be his match." flattered another shrimp-headed demon general.


    In response, Grand General Summon Thunder said, "There shouldn''t be any powerful cultivators in Qian Prefecture that dare to oppose our Yellow Wyrm Lake. However, that cultivator did kill General Crab. He probably has a powerful backer. General Hunt, tell me what the cultivator looks like. Is he anyone famous?"


    "Alright." The demon general with the saber nodded.


    He immediately looked into the direction of Mt. Blue Granny. His eyes flashed as they suffused a dark yellow light.


    "I see him. He''s sitting cross-legged in a wooden hut. He''s dressed in black and looks very young." General Hunt frowned and said puzzled, "There are only so many Connate True Core realm cultivators in Qian Prefecture. And only five are that young. He doesn''t resemble any of them. As for him being a Connate Golden Core cultivator? That''s even more impossible. All the Connate Golden Core cultivators in Qian Prefecture are famous. I know all of them."


    "You do not know him?" Grand General Summon Thunder was perplexed.


    Qin Yun had grown in fame too quickly.


    Since he was trapped in the immortal abode for a long period of time, only cultivators from the Jiang Prefecture''s cultivation world had actually seen him. As for the Qian Prefecture? Only top factions had obtained an accurate projection of Qin Yun. Typical fiendish demons would not have obtained one. Even obtaining a portrait would¡¯ve been quite an impressive feat. Grand General Summon Thunder and company were entrenched in Qian Prefecture so there was no need for them to seek out a portrait of a newly promoted and powerful cultivator from the Jiang Prefecture.


    "He''s either a Qian Prefecture cultivator that has recently made a breakthrough or he is from another prefecture," said General Hunt.


    ¡­


    As Grand General Summon Thunder and company were hiding five kilometers away and guessing at Qin Yun''s identity, Qin Yun had already noticed the trio.


    With his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he could easily release his psyche fifteen kilometers out.


    "Grand General Summon Thunder? Is that him?" Qin Yun sat cross-legged in a wooden hut when he suddenly knitted his brows. "Another powerful aura! It''s fast. My guess is that it¡¯s a Connate Golden Core fiendish demon."


    A terrifying aura was rushing over maniacally.


    It entered a fifteen-kilometer radius and continued to rapidly approach.


    "Ever since I left Grand Dominance, I had a feeling that I was being watched. Even when I arrived in Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County, I was still being watched¡­ Have you finally arrived?" Qin Yun turned serious. As for Grand General Summon Thunder and his generals, Qin Yun did not mind them for they were trivial. Since they had entered a fifteen-kilometer radius, he could destroy them as he pleased.


    "Boom!"


    A faint boom suddenly sounded out. It came from the distant horizon and was a deep sound that left one''s heart trembling.


    "What sound is that?" Grand General Summon Thunder and his two demon generals were astonished. For some baffling reason, they shuddered.


    "Grand General, look." General Hunter pointed towards the distant horizon.


    A huge black gust of wind had appeared on the horizon.


    The black wind howled, and it was as though a dark cloud had descended upon the mountain. The surrounding temperature began to drop.


    "Qin Yun!" An angry bellow boomed.


    The entire sky darkened.


    Although part of the sun had peeked out from the east, the surroundings of Mt. Blue Granny darkened completely. The entire mountain was enveloped by invisible energy as black clouds stirred and black winds howled.


    "Hand over your treasures and you can still live!" The darkened sky rumbled with a thundering voice.


    "Do you have what it takes?"


    Qin Yun stood up and walked out the wooden hut as he sneered at the sky.


    The young demoness turned pale from fright. As there was an endless amount of suppression permeating the world around them, she was horrified.


    "Don''t be afraid." Qin Yun looked at the young demoness.


    "Okay." She nodded immediately.


    "How thickheaded you are! Then die!" A massive hooved claw suddenly descended from the dark sky. It was dark gray in color and looked heavy. It was as though it came crashing down with all the might of the world.


    Qin Yun stood there and waved his hand.


    A sword beam shot out like a roaring bolt of lightning or a tidal wave that surged towards the attacking claw.


    "Roar¡ª"


    The sword beam surged forward and clashed with the massive claw. The gigantic claw trembled before retracting rapidly. A massive beast that resembled a hound descended from a high altitude. It had four hooves and its eyes had three concentric pupils. Its ears were standing up and it had a unique pair of yellow brows.


    "You are quite skilled after all." The eyes of the monstrous beast in the sky flashed.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Two golden beams of light shot out from his pupils as they streaked across the sky like lightning. They almost instantly reached Mt. Blue Granny.


    "Phew." The Cyclic Sword Flash instantly appeared, producing a barrier that blocked the two golden beams. Space began to distort with grinding noises but the two golden beams failed to penetrate Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "As expected of an ancient mutated K?itigarbha Hound. Despite being at an ordinary realm, your moves possess so much might," said Qin Yun. "However, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, you can¡¯t do a thing to me with this tiny bit of skill."


    "What?"


    "Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect? K?itigarbha Hound?"


    Five kilometers away, Grand General Summon Thunder and his two generals were dumbfounded.


    The hooved claw that descended from the dark sky had dumbfounded them. But now, Qin Yun had withstood the terrifying attack and said the name of his opponent. It left the three demons shuddering.


    "Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect is in no way inferior to our Flood Dragon King!" Grand General Summon Thunder was alarmed.


    "He''s Qin Yun? The only famous cultivator in the world with the name Qin Yun is that one from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. But isn''t he only an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador? Why is he able to defend against Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect so easily?" General Hunt was alarmed as well.


    "We were almost about to fight him?" General Shrimp felt his heart palpitate. "That flying sword''s might was in no way inferior to Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s claw swipe. If his flying sword came at us, we would have been finished."


    "Don''t move. None of us move. They might not have discovered us yet." Grand General Summon Thunder was feeling extremely anxious.


    "Let''s hope they haven''t discovered us." General Hunt was full of unease. General Shrimp did not even dare utter a word.


    Existences at that level were famous throughout the world. They were only hegemons of a small area, so why would they dare make a sound?


    "Junior, don''t be overly arrogant." Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect bellowed while standing in midair. Typical fiendish demons would maintain a humanoid form so they could use the most of their combat strength. However, there were some ancient mutants or demons with special characteristics, such as dragons, who could draw out their strongest powers in their true forms. The ancient mutated K?itigarbha Hound was one such demon.


    Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s massive body floated in midair as he suddenly opened his mouth.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Black cold wind with rich bloodlust aura hurtled forward like countless blades. Even the towering trees in the vicinity were diced up into pieces.


    Qin Yun gently shook his head and, with a single thought, commanded his Intrinsic Flying Sword to produce the Heavenly Cycle. It transformed into a sword flash barrier that covered more than half of Mt. Blue Granny''s peak! "Boom!" The black winds that seemed to be capable of cutting through iron like mud were powerless against the sword flash barrier. However, many of the surrounding boulders and trees were ground to dust, scattering across the world.


    When the black winds came to a halt, a tiny portion of Mt. Blue Granny was gone, ground into nothingness.


    "What, how is he this strong?" High in the sky, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was alarmed. "The K?itigarbha Wind Bloodlust I have been cultivating for a thousand years actually does nothing against his flying sword."


    How could he know?


    Qin Yun had yet to use the power of his Paramount realm. He was afraid, afraid that he would scare off Temple Lord Ruyi. Back when Qin Yun was trapped in the immortal abode, Temple Lord Ruyi had attempted to kidnap the members of the Qin family. Qin Yun naturally wanted him dead. He was waiting for Temple Lord Ruyi to come out before using his most powerful sword art on him.


    Although Temple Lord Ruyi was great at life-preservation methods, he was extremely arrogant. He had once escaped from the Paramount realm existence, Reverend Barefeet.


    However, Qin Yun was a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal! In terms of pursuit, his flying sword was much more powerful than Reverend Barefeet¡¯s. He did not believe that Temple Lord Ruyi would be able to escape from his sword.


    "This is the K?itigarbha Wind Bloodlust? Qin Yun asked as he looked at the flying Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect. His voice resounded through the heaven and earth. "It''s pretty powerful but it''s useless against me. Also, you three, it''s time to show yourselves after watching for so long."


    "It''s time to show yourselves after watching for so long?"


    Five kilometers away, Grand General Summon Thunder, General Hunt, and General Shrimp went pale from shock. Their legs turned limp.


    "Grand General, he wants us to show ourselves." General Shrimp''s voice was already trembling.


    "Show ourselves?" Grand General Summon Thunder gulped. "Since he has asked us to show ourselves, it''s best we do not resist. We¡ª"


    "Hahaha¡­ Fellow Daoist Qin, how impressive."


    "To think you can see through our concealment arts."


    "Impressive."


    The words were accompanied with boisterous laughter from three parties.


    Three terrifying auras surged as three great fiendish demons appeared out of thin air.

 186 Attack of the Great Fiendish Demons Part 2/2

    Grand General Summon Thunder and his two generals were planning on showing themselves, when they were shocked to see three horrifying great fiendish demons appear suddenly.


    "He wasn''t talking about us. It''s those three." General Shrimp''s voice was trembling.


    "Don''t move. None of us move." Grand General Summon Thunder said immediately. "We are more than five kilometers away. He probably hasn''t discovered us! What we should do now is stay here quietly and not join the fray."


    General Shrimp and General Hunt nodded immediately.


    Why would they dare to join the fray when it was a battle of such tremendous proportions?


    "Where did they all come from?" Grand General Summon Thunder''s eyes were already large to begin with, but now they were even wider. "Including Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, there are a total of four. Since when have sightings of great fiendish demons been so commonplace?"


    General Hunt added, "Among the three who just appeared, two of them have previously come to our Flood Dragon Palace. One of them is Matron Centaurea and the other is Valley Lord Windhark. Back when Matron Centaurea came, Flood Dragon King and Dragon Queen welcomed her personally."


    "I''ve heard of Matron Centaurea too. Just one of her flower vines can rob me of my life." Grand General Summon Thunder clenched his teeth. "I knew I shouldn''t have agreed to Her Majesty''s request! The matter of killing Flood Dragon King''s illegitimate children was to be kept secret from Flood Dragon King. Once His Majesty learns of it, we will be in trouble even if Her Majesty stands up for us."


    "That''s right. We didn''t even want to come but we couldn''t disobey Her Majesty''s orders." General Shrimp felt helpless.


    "How can His Majesty not know about it at all?" General Hunt shook his head gently.


    "That''s not something we can talk about," said Grand General Summon Thunder immediately.


    General Crab instantly shut his mouth.


    "This is a matter between His and Her Majesty. We shouldn''t concern ourselves with it," said Grand General Summon Thunder. "What is most important for us now¡­ is how we should escape."


    "Yea, if we show ourselves, that Qin Yun might not even bother with talk and just kill us outright," added General Shrimp.


    "Let''s keep hiding," said General Hunt.


    ¡­


    The three of them hid carefully as they watched the three newly arrived great fiendish demons and the distant Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect face the cultivator, Qin Yun, on Mt. Blue Granny.


    This was definitely a rare clash of top existences.


    Qin Yun stood there and looked leisurely at the four great fiendish demons. However, Fu Sizhuo behind him was feeling extremely nervous.


    "The three of you followed me?" Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect looked at the three great fiendish demons and boomed.


    "Daoist Qin''s flying arts are just too fast. We couldn''t keep up with him. Thankfully, Brother Tenebrous Aspect is good at tracking. We could only find Daoist Qin by following you," said a red-robed man with a smile. "Brother Tenebrous Aspect, thank you very much."


    "It''s all thanks to Tenebrous Aspect." A beautiful pink-robed woman said with a smile as well.


    The corners of Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s eyes twitched.


    These three great fiendish demons¡­


    He did not think too much of the other two but Matron Centaurea''s strength was in no way inferior to his. She was even stronger! If Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect relied on his ancient mutated K?itigarbha Hound talents for his overwhelming power, then Matron Centaurea''s true body was very ordinary. She was once a Chinese rose, until one day when Empyrean Meteoric Ambrosia flowed from the heavens. She managed to become a demon out of sheer luck.


    After years of cultivation, she cultivated from an ordinary flower demoness to a figure that many fiendish demons respectfully addressed as Matron Centaurea. She naturally had formidable means and had cultivated in several mystic arts. She gave Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect a headache.


    "Daoist Qin." Matron Centaurea wore a Chinese rose on her head and light red fog lingered around her. She smiled brightly at Qin Yun as her voice resounded through the sky. "Against our present alliance, you will not be able to defend your treasures. I urge you to hand them over obediently to avoid being killed."


    "Matron Centaurea, your strength is only ordinary but you sure speak very high and mighty," said Qin Yun.


    Matron Centaurea''s expression sank immediately.


    How long has it been?


    How long has it been since anyone dared to say that her strength was only ordinary!? After all, even great fiendish demons that were at a similar level of strength showed her some respect and were unwilling to offend her.


    "My strength is only ordinary? Then, I would wish for fellow Daoist Qin to ascertain if my strength is really ordinary or not." Matron Centaurea laughed as the red fog around her spread out rapidly. The expressions of the blind elder and the red-robed man changed slightly as they retreated, making way for the red fog to surge towards Qin Yun. It was very fast and wherever it passed, even the trees were not spared.


    Through the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s psyche projection, Qin Yun was able to sense the red fog before it reached him.


    His psyche was being eroded, and he immediately felt dizzy.


    "Isolate it." Qin Yun was alarmed as he quickly used a Sealing Spell.


    Phew.


    A gigantic sealing barrier enveloped the surroundings, including Mt. Blue Granny. When the red fog spread towards Qin Yun, it was blocked by the barrier.


    "This is Matron Centaurea''s Pink Confusion Fog? I''m still affected despite my present soul and realm." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "If I were to be enveloped in the fog for an extended period of time, it would only get more and more dangerous."


    Pew! A black beam shot through the red fog and hit the barrier. Instantly, the Sealing barrier cracked from the spot where the beam hit, allowing the red fog to continue its spread.


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out and produced the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    The gigantic sword flash barrier sent a black beam of light flying backward. It was a black thorn when the black beam of light revealed its true colors!


    "Phew" The massive Cyclic Sword Flash barrier dispersed the red fog, and Mt. Blue Granny was safe once again.


    "I have already attained the Sword Intent Paramount realm. And now that my Misty Rain Sword Intent has reached the Paramount realm, the Heavenly Cycle comes out much easier and is closer to being perfect!" thought Qin Yun. "The casting of the Cyclic Sword Flash drains about the same amount of Dharmic powers as attacks like Bright Moon Over River. Furthermore, I''m casting it with my Intrinsic Flying Sword, making it even more relaxing! It would be trivial for me to continue casting it for a few days."


    If he had been powering it with a first-grade flying sword, it would be shockingly exhausting!


    An Intrinsic Flying Sword was strong and expended very little! However, the enhancement of an Intrinsic Flying Sword was limited by one¡¯s own realm. For example, sword intent domain could at best allow an Intrinsic Flying Sword to reach the third-grade. Qin Yun had already reached the Sword Intent Paramount realm but no matter how many treasures he gave to it, his Intrinsic Flying Sword could at best reach the second-grade. Of course, as he had only recently broken through, his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s cultivation still needed some time. It remained at the third-grade.


    But the strength it produced could match a first-grade Dharma treasure.


    ¡­


    "You might be able to defend against Tenebrous Aspect but you won''t be so fortunate against me." When Matron Centaurea saw this, she waved her hand.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Instantly, a dense horde of countless black beams surged forward.


    This scene left the red-robed man, the blind elder, and Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect reeling.


    "Million Soul-vanquishing Needles?" Qin Yun recognized the beams.


    Every Soul-vanquishing needle was said to be a needle-like thorn that came from Matron Centaurea''s body, as she was a massive Chinese rose. Although the needles were refined by her body, their strength was ordinary. But their true force came from sheer numbers! With a million Soul-vanquishing needles, its might was something that would make even an ancient mutated species like Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect flinch.


    The sound of air being torn through was the first thing heard, before the countless black beams struck the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "Boom!"


    The sound produced by each individual thorn''s collision wasn''t loud, but with a million Soul-vanquishing Needles striking simultaneously, it was deafening.


    These Soul-vanquishing Needles would occasionally form a formation with more than ten thousand needles creating a joint attack. All the strength was gathered at the foremost black thorn, giving it extremely formidable penetrative power. Some of the Soul-vanquishing Needles would strike individually which wasn''t strong. Needles in other locations formed joint formations, causing the Million Soul-vanquishing Needles'' assault to be both strong and weak in various spots. Defending against such an attack should have been very difficult!


    However, Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash was producing the Heavenly Cycles. It perfectly dispersed the forces it received across the entire Cyclic Sword Flash.


    No matter which spot was struck, or how powerful it was, the force could be perfectly dispersed, allowing every spot to withstand it equally.


    "Old Bat, Old Poison Dragon, join forces with me." Matron Centaurea''s expression sank.


    "Alright."


    The blind elder and the red-robed man took action immediately.


    Huge veins flew out from Matron Centaurea''s side. They were like long whips as they lashed out at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. As for the blind elder, he flipped his hand and produced a flute. He played a very soft tune. It was inaudible, but it produced distorted shockwaves that could be seen hailing towards the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    Puah Puah Puah!


    The shockwaves assaulted the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier with powerful beats.


    As for the red-robed man, he waved his hand, immediately sending colorful streams of light flying out. These colorful streams of light rapidly twined together to form long vines! Each vine was colorful and streaked rapidly across the sky, their commanding might gradually increasing.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The long veins struck at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, producing loud booms.


    Matron Centaurea, Poison Dragon King, and Valley Lord Windhark had joined forces but they were alarmed.


    "Our joint attack is a lot stronger than Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s attack; yet, we still can''t crack this flying sword art?" The trio found it unbelievable.


    "By combining forces with Centaurea, her strength will increase by fifty percent," thought Poison Dragon King. He was originally a subordinate of Matron Centaurea. Later, when he broke through to the Connate Golden Core realm, he chose to continue following her despite being capable of setting up his own faction. From that moment forth, he was always with Matron Centaurea and their combined strength was rather powerful.


    ¡­


    Grand General Summon Thunder and company were completely dumbfounded.


    Their hearts turned cold and then experienced a plethora of emotions when they saw the veins that sprawled across the world and the distorted shockwaves that were strange and silent¡­ All these killer moves were inundating Mt. Blue Granny but it remained completely encapsulated by the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, withstanding every attack.


    "This Qin Yun is too powerful."


    "The four great fiendish demons can''t do anything to him? And we were actually coming to deal with him?"


    ¡­


    "What?" Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect could not help but be alarmed as he watched from the side. "The joint forces of the three of them failed to crack it? Furthermore, that Qin Yun looks very relaxed? From the looks of it, even the four of us are not his match."


    Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect immediately began to send a transmission message to his good friend.


    "Brother Crocdragon, Qin Yun is in the outskirts of Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County City. Come quickly."

 187 Dragon Queen

    Chapter 187: Dragon Queen


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside Grand Dominance City, Patriarch Crocdragon was sitting cross-legged in a straw hut when he suddenly opened his eyes, his vertical pupils suffusing a dark-yellow color.


    "Swoosh."


    A projection of Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect appeared in midair in front of him. Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was in humanoid form and dressed in a colorful robe, resembling a wealthy person.


    "What did you say? Qin Yun is in Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County?" Patriarch Crocdragon was not convinced.


    "Brother Crocdragon, come quickly. The earlier the better," urged Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect. "I''m currently in Jia''an County."


    "Brother Tenebrous Aspect, why are you suddenly so considerate? If you are there, shouldn''t you be attacking?" questioned Patriarch Crocdragon with a chuckle.


    "You fool, you still don¡¯t believe me. Take a look yourself!" Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect transmitted the scene of the ongoing battle with his transmission treasure.


    The scene in front of Patriarch Crocdragon shifted to that of Matron Centaurea, Valley Lord Windhark, and Poison Dragon King''s joint assault on Mt. Blue Granny, which was protected by a gigantic Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. One could vaguely make out a black-robed youth standing inside the barrier.


    "What? Centaurea and the rest are there too? The three of them are besieging him?" Patriarch Crocdragon saw everything.


    "Do you believe me now?" asked Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect.


    "Yes, yes. Brother Tenebrous Aspect, I''ll rush there right away," said Patriarch Crocdragon immediately.


    "If it weren''t for Qin Yun''s impregnable flying sword arts, would I have informed you?" Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect pouted.


    "Don''t worry. I won''t forget what you did if I get any treasure," said Patriarch Crocdragon with a laugh.


    They had a deep friendship.


    When it came to a being as strong as Patriarch Crocdragon, be it the humans, demons, or Four Seas'' Water race all around the world, there were few who would sincerely befriend him. Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was one of those few! After all, the raising of Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s cultivation realm might be slow but he was ultimately an ancient mutant. He would become more formidable and mystical in the future.


    "Swoosh."


    Patriarch Crocdragon came out of the straw hut.


    "Patriarch." Two streams of light flew over. One was a coquettish youth, Cave Lord Black Snake, and the other was a green-dressed woman. Both of them had extraordinary auras.


    "Qin Yun is currently in Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County. Let''s quickly set off," said Patriarch Crocdragon. He deliberately picked these two subordinates because they were adept at different things. After all, he might have possessed great strength but he was not powerful in every aspect.


    "In the Qian Prefecture?"


    The two great fiendish demons exchanged looks and were somewhat surprised.


    "Let''s go quickly," urged Patriarch Crocdragon.


    "Yes."


    Cave Lord Black Snake immediately transformed into a black snake which Patriarch Crocdragon and the green-dressed woman sat cross-legged on.


    Shoo!


    Black Snake instantly became a black stream of light that tore through the sky.


    ¡­


    High in the sky, Matron Centaurea, Poison Dragon King, and Valley Lord Windhark were attacking with all means available to them at full strength.


    Poison Dragon King was even forced to reveal his true form. As his black poison dragon body twirled in the sky, his claws and body slammed maniacally at Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. But they still failed regardless of their combined might.


    "Count yourselves lucky."


    Qin Yun looked outside the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier at the black twirling poison dragon. "If I wasn¡¯t afraid of scaring off the other great fiendish demons, I would have already let all of you have a taste of my flying sword''s might."


    "I''ll tolerate it for a while and conceal some of my strength."


    "It is already well known that my flying sword arts are great at defending. Back in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, I used my flying sword art to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron by withstanding the Earth fire," thought Qin Yun. "But here, even if my flying sword art''s defenses are good, it will only astonish any demons watching without being too ridiculous."


    "If I were to kill one or two fiendish demons outright, it¡¯d probably scare the rest of the great fiendish demons."


    "Especially that Temple Lord Ruyi. If he were to be frightened away, with how cautious he is, it will be difficult to get another chance to kill him," thought Qin Yun.


    Temple Lord Ruyi was best at life-preservation and escaping.


    Qin Yun''s strength¡­


    The moment he revealed his Paramount realm strength, Temple Lord Ruyi would definitely escape at the mere sight of his overwhelming strength.


    "I''ll wait," said Qin Yun silently.


    As for the siege of the great fiendish demons?


    Qin Yun was an existence at the Connate Paramount realm and his Misty Rain Sword Intent was best when it came to defense. With his Cyclic Sword Flash, the combined forces of the four great fiendish demons felt like a mere scratch of an itch.


    After some time, the three fiendish demons finally came to a stop.


    "Qin Yun, do you only know how to hide? If you are capable, come on out and fight us," bellowed Poison Dragon King angrily.


    "I heard that back in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, all he did was hide! The human''s imperial government''s Ji Lie had dealt with him and he had barely resisted with his flying sword arts. He had even relied on them to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron," the blind elder said with a shake of his head. The events of Scenic Yang Immortal Abode were something all parties knew of. It was not a secret to the well-informed great fiendish demons.


    They also knew that Qin Yun was great at defending! His defense was greater than the Bai family''s Bai Junyue''s casting of the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    "Alright, so he''s only good at this one move. The moment he comes out, he will be courting death. We can''t expect him to just throw himself to his death so easily," echoed Matron Centaurea.


    "What a cowardly mouse," scoffed Poison Dragon King.


    "Qin Yun, sword immortals are supposed to be best at the offensive. Come on, let''s have a fight," said the blind elder loudly. Their voices reverberated through the world.


    They were deliberately deriding and mocking him. However, it was useless. Qin Yun continued defending with his Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Forget it, he doesn''t have the guts to come out." Matron Centaurea shook her head.


    "Let''s have a rest," said Poison Dragon King immediately.


    "Yea." Matron Centaurea nodded.


    The trio immediately flew a distance away and landed on a nearby mountain peak where they took a temporary breather.


    In addition, they began secretly contacting other great fiendish demons. Since they could not deal with Qin Yun alone, they called on more, stronger great fiendish demons!


    ¡­


    With the news spreading, all the great fiendish demons outside Grand Dominance City were naturally informed one after another. Even the slowest ones were eventually informed by the Myriad Temple that Qin Yun was presently at Mt. Blue Granny outside Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County City.


    "Nice one, Qin Yun. I knew you wouldn''t have the patience to stay in Grand Dominance City all your life. But I never expected you to lose your patience after just a month." Temple Lord Ruyi walked out of a bamboo lodge. He said smugly, "Haha, Jia''an County doesn''t have the three array formations like Grand Dominance City. Nor is there a Yellow-scarved Strongman. This time, Qin Yun is doomed."


    "As for the vying of treasures? That will depend on each party''s ability."


    Temple Lord Ruyi was rather confident in himself. His life-preserving skills were truly formidable. In addition to his life-preserving skills, he could fly into the sky and burrow into the ground! And while those were his best skills, he could still hold his own in a head-on clash.


    "Whew!"


    Temple Lord Ruyi transformed into a stream of light and instantly tore through the air. The stream of light vaguely revealed a gigantic centipede''s phantom as it flew through the void at an extremely fast speed.


    ¡­


    Right away, many great fiendish demons departed Grand Dominance County and rushed towards Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County.


    ******


    Five kilometers away. Grand General Summon Thunder and his two generals were still hiding.


    "They have stopped."


    "Nothing is happening anymore." The three carefully peered at the distant Mt. Blue Granny.


    Shoo!


    A dark purple flying sword flashed and appeared in front of the three.


    Grand General Summon Thunder, General Hunt, and General Shrimp immediately sensed it. The color in their faces drained when they saw the flying sword in front of them.


    "This¡­" The trio was stumbling over their words.


    "If you do not want to die, come to me." The flying sword transmitted a voice with its Dharmic powers. It was Qin Yun''s voice.


    "Yes, yes, yes." Grand General Summon Thunder and company nodded immediately.


    "Swoosh."


    Immediately, the Heavy Sand Sword pulled Grand General Summon Thunder and company rapidly towards Mt. Blue Granny at any extremely fast speed.


    "Oh?" Far away on a mountain, the resting Matron Centaurea, Poison Dragon King, and Valley Lord Windhark, as well as Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, also noticed the sword beam that was flying with three demons.


    "Three demons?" Matron Centaurea and company were perplexed.


    "What is he capturing the three demons for?"


    Phew.


    On Mt. Blue Granny.


    Qin Yun stood there as Grand General Summon Thunder and company were delivered to him. All of them planted their feet firmly into the ground.


    "Greetings, Young Master Qin." Grand General Summon Thunder and company were very respectful.


    "Grand General Summon Thunder, a demon at the Connate True Core realm. I''ve heard of you." Qin Yun looked at Grand General Summon Thunder. "Was it you who sent General Crab to kill this fish demoness?"


    "No, it wasn''t me. It wasn''t!" Grand General Summon Thunder shook his head immediately, denying it straight up. Anyone who had cultivated to such a realm was not dumb.


    General Crab was dead!


    The fish demoness was behind Qin Yun. The headstone beside them had the words ''Fu Qing'' engraved on it. How could Grand General Summon Thunder not understand that Qin Yun had an extraordinary relationship with Fu Qing?


    "It wasn''t you?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "Ask the young fish demoness if you don''t believe me," said Grand General Summon Thunder immediately. "General Crab was always the one pursuing her with his demons. I never pursued her. If it had been me, how would she have lived to this day?"


    Qin Yun looked at Fu Sizhuo.


    She hesitated for a moment. "I have never seen him before."


    "Why did General Crab say that you were the one who gave the order?" asked Qin Yun again.


    "I''ve been maligned!" Grand General Summon Thunder said immediately. "We were only following orders but the three of us were not really willing to lead the charge. It was General Crab who was most enthusiastic."


    "Who ordered you?" asked Qin Yun.


    Grand General Summon Thunder''s expression changed. General Hunt and General Shrimp did not dare utter a word.


    "Do none of you know?" asked Qin Yun.


    "We¡­ We do not know. We didn''t dare to probe." General Hunt and General Shrimp had pale faces. They were afraid of both Qin Yun and the Dragon Queen! The orders were meant to be carried out with the utmost secrecy! Dragon Queen''s domineering attitude was something even Flood Dragon King was helpless against.


    "Me¡­ Me too¡­" Grand General Summon Thunder was almost close to tears.


    "Your two subordinates do not know but you, as a Grand General, must have had someone deliver the order to you, right?" Qin Yun gave Grand General Summon Thunder a faint smile.


    Grand General Summon Thunder said helplessly, "Young Master Qin, if I say it, please do not say that it was me who told you."


    "Speak. If you don''t, I''ll kill you now," Qin Yun said coldly.


    "Dragon Queen!" Grand General Summon Thunder said immediately. "Dragon Queen gave the order. Both of them know as well. General Crab knew too."


    General Hunt and General Shrimp were feeling endlessly troubled.


    Qin Yun swept them with a gaze.


    Dragon Queen¡­


    Flood Dragon King''s wife wants to kill Flood Dragon King''s illegitimate daughter. Interesting.


    "Now, contact Dragon Queen." Qin Yun looked at Grand General Summon Thunder.


    "Contact her? Me?" Grand General Summon Thunder could not help but say, "If Dragon Queen knows that I was the one who leaked the news, she won''t spare me¡­"


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes. A flying sword floated up beside him.


    "I''ll do it. I''ll do it now!" Grand General Summon Thunder said immediately. He took out a stone token with a flip of his hand. It glowed as a phantom image appeared beside him.


    A dignified and poised woman appeared in the projection. She looked coldly down at him. "Summon Thunder, have you killed that young fish demoness?"


    "Your Majesty, it''s not me... it''s not me that wants to see you. It''s Grand Dominance County''s Young Master Qin Yun." Grand General Summon Thunder said obsequiously before turning the stone token to face Qin Yun.


    The woman in the projection saw Qin Yun as well.


    She looked down and had a cold expression. "If he wants to meet me, aren''t you aware that you need to inform me ahead of time? Hmph, how does a human Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador have the right to meet me?" With that said, the transmission was severed. She was indeed somewhat vexed. According to Flood Dragon Palace''s rules, anyone that wanted to meet her had to inform ahead of time and she would meet the person only at her discretion.


    Dragon Queen was furious that she was immediately informed that Qin Yun wanted to meet her without any prior messages. Grand General Summon Thunder was taken aback when Dragon Queen''s phantom suddenly dissipated.


    "Contact her again," said Qin Yun.

 188 Reverberations through the World

    Chapter 188: Reverberations through the World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Yes." Grand General Summon Thunder did not dare refuse. He made another attempt to contact Dragon Queen. However, nothing happened.


    Grand General Summon Thunder looked at Qin Yun with a flustered expression. "Young Master Qin, Her Majesty appears to be angry. She is ignoring my transmission completely."


    "Ignoring you?" Qin Yun nodded. "Alright, when I''m done here, I''ll take my time to settle this matter. As for the three of you¡­"


    "Young Master Qin, spare us. We were only following orders," said Grand General Summon Thunder immediately.


    "We were unwilling to pursue the daughter of His Majesty." General Hunt and General Shrimp pleaded as well.


    The three of them had no thoughts of resisting. The scene they had previously witnessed was enough for them to know how powerful Qin Yun was.


    Qin Yun swept his gaze across the three demons. "I can spare the three of you from death but there is a need to punish you. Hand over all your treasures and then scram."


    "All our treasures?" The three exchanged looks but they obediently handed over all their Dharma treasures and artifacts.


    "Young Master Qin, this bit of treasure is probably nothing to you, right?" Grand General Summon Thunder murmured.


    Qin Yun did not say a word.


    Handing over their treasures pained their hearts more than losing a leg or arm! After all, their limbs could grow back but how long would it take to recoup the treasures that they had gone to great effort to amass once they were snatched away?


    But in order to survive, they were forced to hand them over obediently.


    As for Qin Yun, what he really wanted was for them to feel the pinch.


    "Alright, tell your Flood Dragon King," said Qin Yun. "I''ll be involved in the matter regarding this fish demoness. If Dragon Queen has ordered you to kill the fish demoness, I want Flood Dragon King to answer to me! If he can''t give me an answer, I''ll personally visit your Flood Dragon Palace."


    "About that¡­" The trio was astonished.


    This Qin Yun even meant to go to Flood Dragon Palace?


    "Scram," said Qin Yun with a wave of his hand.


    "Yes." The three departed obediently.


    Phew. They conjured winds and left immediately.


    Qin Yun looked at the tomb beside him and the name of his brother engraved on it. "Scholar, I will definitely avenge you."


    And on a distant mountain peak.


    "Oh? Those three demons are moving?"


    "They are from Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace." Matron Centaurea and company looked on from afar and recognized Grand General Summon Thunder and company. They allowed them to leave.


    With that, Mt. Blue Granny quietened down.


    After all, many great fiendish demons were rushing over from Grand Dominance County. It would take quite a while for them to arrive.


    ¡­


    Yellow Wyrm Lake was a huge body of water that spanned five hundred kilometers. Many Water race demons lurked there and deep in the lake was the ancient Flood Dragon Palace. The yellow flood dragon lineage had entrenched themselves there for tens of thousands of years.


    At that moment in Flood Dragon Palace.


    "Hmph, that Summon Thunder doesn''t understand protocol at all! How can a human Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador be allowed to meet me on a whim?" Dragon Queen was sitting on a luxurious lounge chair, one so soft that it felt like it was made from clouds. But all she could do was fume, breathing so heavily that her ample breasts almost burst out of her bosom.


    She was used to being overbearing.


    In Flood Dragon Palace, who dared to treat her with anything but the utmost respect? Even the Flood Dragon King himself had to cater to her.


    "A human Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador might not understand protocol but does Summon Thunder not? Your Majesty, you must teach Summon Thunder a good lesson when he returns," said a maidservant as she massaged Dragon Queen''s shoulders.


    "When he returns, summon him here," instructed Dragon Queen with a nod.


    "Yes," replied the maidservant obediently.


    "Darling! Darling!" A boisterous voice sounded as Flood Dragon King ran in. He was in a humanoid form with a massive flood dragon head. His scaly skin suffused a yellow color, a characteristic of him really being a yellow flood dragon.


    "What''s the matter?" Dragon Queen shot a glance at her husband. Flood Dragon King waved his hand, making the maidservants around them immediately take their leave.


    "Don''t be so mysterious." Dragon Queen continued in her half slump.


    "Darling," said Flood Dragon King immediately. "I just learned of something huge. It''s enough to shock the entire world."


    "What is it? Tell me quickly," urged Dragon Queen.


    Flood Dragon King said immediately, "You must have heard of that human cultivator from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance, Qin Yun, right?"


    "I''ve heard of him. Just a lucky lad who obtained some treasures in the immortal abode." Dragon Queen nodded. "Isn''t there a horde of great fiendish demons targeting him now?"


    "He came to Qian Prefecture and is right here in Jia''an County!" Flood Dragon King said hurriedly. "He''s only a few hundred kilometers away from our Yellow Wyrm Lake! The four great fiendish demons¡ªMatron Centaurea, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, Poison Dragon King, and Valley Lord Windhark¡ªattacked him simultaneously but to no avail. Now, all the great fiendish demons that have been laying siege to Grand Dominance are rushing to Jia''an County! Soon, there will be quite a spectacle of a battle."


    "What? He dared to come out? And he even came all the way to Jia''an County?" Dragon Queen was astonished as well. "Matron Centaurea and the rest of them were helpless against him?"


    "Yea." Flood Dragon King nodded. "That''s why I said he''s impressive! That sword immortal''s strength is redoubtable."


    Dragon Queen fell silent.


    "This battle would be impressive. Say, do you think we should go take a look? After all, it''s close to our Yellow Wyrm Lake." Flood Dragon King looked at Dragon Queen and asked puzzledly, "What''s wrong with you. Why are you so silent?"


    "I recalled something," said Dragon Queen with a frown. "Just a few moments ago, Summon Thunder messaged me, saying that Qin Yun wanted to meet me. He even let me see Qin Yun through the transmission. Back then, I was brooding over how a lucky kid, a mere Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador, thought he had the right to see me as he pleases. I angrily reprimanded Summon Thunder for his disregard for protocol and cut the transmission. Now, upon careful thought, why is Summon Thunder with Qin Yun? He is in Jia''an County and Qin Yun has also appeared in Jia''an County?"


    "He was looking for you?" Flood Dragon King was surprised. "Quickly chat with him and see what he has to say!"


    "What is there to chat about? It''s not like he will give me any treasure." Dragon Queen pouted. "However, I''m rather surprised that he can withstand Matron Centaurea and the other three."


    "He''s truly worth meeting considering the strength and numerous treasures he possesses at such a young age," quipped Flood Dragon King immediately.


    "You can contact Summon Thunder directly," said Dragon Queen.


    Flood Dragon King nodded immediately and flipped his hand, producing a golden token which he used to contact Grand General Summon Thunder.


    "Eh? He''s ignoring me?" Flood Dragon King was baffled. "Summon Thunder would never dare ignore me."


    "Let me try." When Dragon Queen saw this, she also tried out of puzzlement.


    Similarly, she was unable to contact Grand General Summon Thunder. They were unaware that all of Grand General Summon Thunder''s treasures had been handed over in exchange for his life. The transmission treasure was naturally in Qin Yun''s possession now.


    "I wonder why Qin Yun was looking for you," Flood Dragon King said worriedly. "It''s curious that he came to Jia''an County instead of staying in Grand Dominance. He even got Summon Thunder to contact you while being besieged by Matron Centaurea and company. It''s probably something important."


    "Who cares what it is? If he has an important matter to discuss with us, he will naturally come visit us in Flood Dragon Palace." Dragon Queen scoffed disdainfully as she said, "Besides, he actually dared to come to Jia''an County and even revealed his location. He probably won''t be able to return to Grand Dominance alive. What''s there to talk about with a person who''s about to die?"


    "Look at you." Flood Dragon King felt helpless.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun had appeared in Jia''an County''s Mt. Blue Granny but the attacks of the four great fiendish demons remained fruitless. Now, many great fiendish demons were rushing over.


    The news quickly spread.


    If Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King knew, all the top human factions naturally knew about it as well.


    Jiang Prefecture, Scenic Mountain Sect.


    "Why didn''t Qin Yun stay in Grand Dominance. Why did he go to Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County?" Sect Master Gong was puzzled.


    "This will be troublesome. His flying sword arts are powerful, he was even capable of resisting the Earth fire! He may be able to fend off the four great fiendish demons but there are more great fiendish demons rushing there now. I already know of two absolutely horrifying demons¡ªPatriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm as he shook his head. "Those two are existences that are on par with the Paramount realm. Qin Yun is being too rash."


    "Regardless, our Scenic Mountain Sect is powerless to help him even if we wanted to," said Sect Master Gong lightly. "Against so many great fiendish demons, there is only a handful of people that would dare to help Qin Yun! If he really wants help, he can pay the price of a first-grade treasure, considering how he has so many treasures! It wouldn''t be hard to invite experts to help him. But if he is unwilling to part with any treasures, how many of the other cultivating experts will be willing to risk their lives for him?"


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm sighed as well.


    Yes, there were too many great fiendish demons! There were some that matched the Paramount realm. Only a handful of Connate Golden Core cultivators were even qualified to intervene in the matter! Besides, who would risk their lives for Qin Yun for no good reason?


    ¡­


    "Excellent." A purple-dressed Princess Martial Maple roared with laughter. "This Qin Yun is really seeking death. I want to see how he will survive this time!"


    Beside her, Yi Caishi sighed. "Why is this Qin Yun so foolish? If he dies, what will happen to Xiao''er?"


    "Are you worried about your daughter?" Princess Martial Maple pouted.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s marriage had not been kept secret. People like Patriarch Yi and the Qin family knew, so it was natural that Yi Caishi eventually received the news. He learned that his daughter had married Qin Yun but he was not directly informed, despite being her father! Yi Caishi did not say anything, for he knew he had no right to say a word.


    But now, with Qin Yun in a perilous situation, Yi Caishi could only sigh.


    "Your son-in-law will die no matter how much your heart pains for him. He''s definitely doomed this time." Princess Martial Maple''s eyes were filled with hatred. She had not forgotten the gentleness Qin Yun showed Yi Xiao back when he saved her, as well as how he left gashes on her face.


    She never forgot the humiliation she had suffered.

 189 Temple Lord Ruyi is here

    Chapter 189: Temple Lord Ruyi is here


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Jin Prefecture, Zenith Black City.


    "Father, Qin Yun is in grave danger right now. Please think of a way to help him," said Li You anxiously. It had been six years since Qin Yun had written to Li You for help. Li You had matured a lot since then, and he had naturally stepped into the Connate realm. He was even married and his performance in recent years had pleased Philo-Marquis.


    "You''er."


    Philo-Marquis was dressed in a moon-white robe as he shook his head and said, "This matter has grown out of proportion. Too many great fiendish demons are targeting Qin Yun. Among them, there are at least two that match the Paramount realm. Furthermore, with all of them joining forces, there''s no way I can help. Nor is it my call to make."


    Li You knew that his father, the Philo-Marquis, was one of the nine entities at the Paramount realm! If he truly wanted to help, it was possible. But it would be an extremely risky undertaking.


    If it were him alone, he would naturally have provided his assistance. However, he had no reason to give his father to convince him to risk his life.


    "Actually, this brother of yours has too many treasures on him. He could have sought the help of the imperial government or the Daoist sacred lands!" Philo-Marquis said as he tapped in front of him.


    Phew.


    A gigantic projection appeared inside the hall.


    The projected scenery was that of Mt. Blue Granny!


    Fu Sizhuo was burning incense money in front of the tomb while Qin Yun was sitting cross-legged inside a wooden hut. Matron Centaurea, Poison Dragon King, Valley Lord Windhark, and Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect were situated on a distant mountain peak. The projection also showed a golden beam flying over. When it came to a halt, it took the form a golden-robed girl. She had a bright bearing and the moment she arrived, she opened her mouth to spew golden flames that enveloped Mt. Blue Granny.


    "This is the scene that the imperial government is watching," said Philo-Marquis. "Not only is the imperial government watching, even the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, as well as the Four Seas'' Water race plus the demon race are watching this battle remotely."


    Every faction had immortals or fiendcelestials backing them.


    Although they did not want to make an appearance for fear of karma implications, it was not difficult for them to watch the battle at Mt. Blue Granny from the safety of their homes.


    "That''s bad." Li You turned nervous.


    The golden flames billowed but Qin Yun continued sitting cross-legged in the wooden hut on Mt. Blue Granny. Only a sword beam flew out to produce the massive Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, protecting Mt. Blue Granny in its entirety! No matter how powerful the golden flames were, they failed to damage the Cyclic Sword Flash in any way.


    "Princess Golden Yang is a Scarlet Feather Divine Bird that inherited the bloodline of the Golden Crow." Philo-Marquis remarked. "However, her strength is only ordinary. The flames she''s spewing will not be able to break through Qin Yun''s flying sword art. However, her Gold Beam Escape Art is the best escape art in the world. Even our human''s lightning escape art is slightly inferior."


    Gold Beam Escape Art was the best in the world. In comparison, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma''s Lightning Manifestation was only considered best among the humans!


    "That Qin Yun looks perfectly calm and composed from my point of view. The great fiendish demons are rushing over but he remains there, unflustered. He probably has something to rely on in a pinch," evaluated Philo-Marquis.


    "Let''s hope he has something to rely on. Lunatic Yun is crazy when it comes to practicing his swordplay, but he¡¯s not really mad." Li You said as he stared intently at the projection.


    ¡­


    Now, every faction in the world was watching the battle.


    The Four Seas Dragon Palace, the imperial government, the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, and various other factions were watching the battle through a myriad of means! Many felt that Qin Yun¡­ appeared too composed.


    ******


    Mt. Blue Granny.


    After Princess Golden Yang''s arrival, more great fiendish demons followed! Although one''s flying arts correlated to one''s cultivation realm, many things depended on one''s cultivated Dharmic formulation and talent! For example, Princess Golden Yang was a Scarlet Feather Divine Bird, allowing her to cultivate in the Gold Beam Escape Art. Having just attained Connate Golden Core, she already had the best escape art in the world.


    As for Qin Yun, he was already at the Paramount realm and his Beam Transformation Art had been cultivated to the ninth level. In terms of speed, he was still inferior to the Lightning Manifestation as demonstrated by Palatial Lord Essence Charm, an ordinary Connate Golden Core.


    As for Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon, their flying escape arts were only average.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Following that, more great fiendish demons arrived one after another.


    Matron Centaurea, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, and company began to join forces, launching relentless attacks at Qin Yun! The sooner they could crack it, the sooner they could obtain his treasures.


    "Destroy that Qin Yun."


    "When Patriarch Wolf Mountain and company arrive, there won''t be much left for us."


    There was already a total of seven great fiendish demons present. Their joint attacks rent the world asunder but the Cyclic Sword Flash continued to shroud Mt. Blue Granny, easily withstanding everything.


    This made the great fiendish demons alarmed. It left all the factions in the world watching this scene astonished.


    "This human''s production of the Heavenly Cycles through his flying sword is truly impressive." A member of the Dragon race from the East Sea Dragon Palace exclaimed.


    "For a flying sword to produce the Heavenly Cycle means that it''s the true Heavenly Cycle charms! Even seven great fiendish demons can''t crack it. Truly impressive."


    ¡­


    At that moment.


    A stream of light brought a centipede phantom along as though it was swimming through the void. It was extremely fast as it raced towards Mt. Blue Granny.


    "Haha, I''m here." Temple Lord Ruyi was casting his escape art and watching Mt. Blue Granny from a distance. The seven great fiendish demons'' collective attacks were still being completely blocked by the Cyclic Sword Flash. "Thankfully, they haven''t cracked it."


    Temple Lord Ruyi''s flying arts were some of the fastest.


    The great fiendish demons that had arrived were people like Princess Golden Yang and Shadowless Fiendlord, who were skilled in flying escape arts. Aside from the three fiendish demons that arrived early on, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was the fourth to arrive.


    "It''s Temple Lord Ruyi."


    "He''s here?"


    Matron Centaurea, Princess Golden Yang, and Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect noticed the newly-arrived great fiendish demon and felt somewhat disappointed.


    "His strength is only ordinary."


    "He''s only good at life-preservation and escaping."


    "Even if he joins us, he will probably not be able to crack Qin Yun''s flying sword art." They had already gained a full appreciation of how powerful Qin Yun''s flying sword arts were. Therefore, they were hoping for powerful reinforcements! Temple Lord Ruyi''s offensive strength was indeed a lot weaker.


    "Everyone."


    Temple Lord Ruyi beamed and appeared extremely warm. "Perhaps this flying sword art of his is quickly reaching its limit. With my help, we might just be able to crack it!"


    "Old centipede, hurry up." Princess Golden Yang shouted with a clear, crisp voice.


    "I''m coming," Temple Lord Ruyi replied with a smile.


    With that, he waved his hand. The chain that was coiled around his wrist flew out. It had eighteen segments, each covered with dense runic patterns. This was Temple Lord Ruyi''s most valued Dharma treasure¡ªHell Noose! As the chain flew out, it whistled through the air and its eighteen segments made it look like a large flying centipede.


    "Expand!" Temple Lord Ruyi commanded.


    The Hell Noose expanded and began wrapping itself around the massive Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. It wrung around the barrier five times! The fact the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier could envelop the entirety of Mt. Blue Granny was a testament to how long the Hell Noose was.


    The Hell Noose rapidly tightened, exerting pressure on the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged in the wooden hut, looked up and into the distance. He met the thin and crafty-looking eyes of Temple Lord Ruyi.


    "Temple Lord Ruyi, you have finally arrived. I have been waiting for you!" Qin Yun flipped his hand and two flying swords appeared in front of him. One was the second-grade flying sword, Heavy Sand Sword and the other was a different second-grade flying sword, Coiling Dust Sword. Apart from his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Elder Sword had left behind two second-grade flying swords he used most often¡ªCoiling Dust and Wretched Blood.


    "Consider yourself honored that I''m using two flying swords to kill you." Although Qin Yun was bent on killing Temple Lord Ruyi, he could not use his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He had to rely on his Intrinsic Flying Sword to defend against the fiendish demon horde. After all, it drained the least amount of his Dharmic powers.


    "Go." Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    The dark purple Heavy Sand Sword and the silver Coiling Dust Sword instantly transformed into two dazzling, moon-like sword beams.


    "Woosh~"


    At that moment, the eight great fiendish demons that besieged Qin Yun, as well as the nervous Fu Sizhuo, heard the sound of river waters. They could even see phantom images of a river around Mt. Blue Granny with their naked eyes.


    Two dazzling moons rose up!


    Bright Moon Over River!


    "This strike can actually produce such tumultuous might?" Princess Golden Yang, Matron Centaurea, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect, Shadowless Fiendlord, and the others were alarmed. When a move contained the implications of the Heavenly Dao, it would affect the senses of others. The more powerful ones could even cause a phenomenon to appear! And the Bright Moon Over River that was cast had caused river water to appear around the surroundings, as well as a bright moon.


    Qin Yun attacked with Bright Moon Over River, one of his three killer moves. It was also the fastest flying sword attack he had.


    "Oh no."


    Temple Lord Ruyi saw two moon-like sword beams blazing straight at him.


    "Why is he targeting me only?" Temple Lord Ruyi was alarmed as he flashed and transformed into a massive centipede a hundred feet long. He immediately attempted to burrow downwards.


    Unfortunately, the two moon-like sword beams were too fast and instantly arrived in front of him.


    Temple Lord Ruyi had a hundred claws on his centipede form. They collectively tried to parry the flying swords but despite the two flying swords being right in front of him, the beams suddenly turned ethereal just as he was about to parry them. His claws swiped through empty space.


    "Phuah! Phuah!"


    The two moon-like sword beams instantly sliced through the gigantic centipede''s body, splitting it into three pieces.


    "What? Why are his flying swords so powerful that even my claws can''t touch them?" Temple Lord Ruyi could not help but shudder. He was a Connate Golden Core realm fiendish demon, after all. But despite all his claws, he had failed to even touch Qin Yun''s flying swords. The difference was too great. Wouldn''t that mean he was at Qin Yun''s mercy?


    Sou! Sou! Sou!


    His body had been split into three segments, but each segment continued to burrow crazily into the ground in a desperate attempt to escape.

 190 Slaying a Great Fiendish Demon

    Chapter 190: Slaying a Great Fiendish Demon


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Matron Centaurea, save me! I''ll be indebted to you!" As Temple Lord Ruyi fled, he pleaded for help through panicked voice transmissions.


    Matron Centaurea''s brows pricked up.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The numerous dense black beams changed trajectories to hinder Qin Yun''s two flying swords. The Million Soul-vanquishing Needles were fast and the numbers were enough to blot out the sky. The technique was best at obstructing the enemy. This was why Temple Lord Ruyi had sought her help specifically.


    "What a vain attempt at trying to vanquish us!" Shadowless Fiendlord waved his hand and released a sanguine stream of light to fend off the swords.


    Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect bellowed as well, "Do you think you can just kill demons under our noses?" He had already made his move when he shouted. His eyes shot out two golden beams that surged straight for the two flying swords.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged in the wooden hut, using his Intrinsic Flying Sword to protect Mt. Blue Granny with Cyclic Sword Flash. Matron Centaurea, Shadowless Fiendlord, and Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect had attacked simultaneously the moment the other two second-grade flying swords sliced Temple Lord Ruyi into three segments. The three of them matched Connate Golden Core cultivators at the intent domain realm.


    Of course the great fiendish demons would find it insulting if Qin Yun was able to kill one of them while they were besieging him. Furthermore, they were worried that Qin Yun was employing a strategy that focused on killing them one after another.


    "Boom." Heavy Sand Sword forcefully cast Cyclic Sword Flash when it was impeded by the interventions. While it withstood all the hindering attacks, it also managed to trap two of Temple Lord Ruyi''s segments that were attempting to escape.


    "Bang! Bang! Bang!"


    The two segments of the centipede''s body that were trapped in the Cyclic Sword Flash slammed maniacally at the barrier but failed to escape.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash was a production of the Heavenly Cycle. It could defend against external attacks and also be used to trap enemies! The most ancient Bai family''s cornerstone Numinous treasure, Stellar Heavenly Cycle, was famous in this aspect as well. It could both trap an enemy, preventing them from ever escaping the confines of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle, and defend, preventing enemies from cracking it. The stars could also be released to kill the enemy.


    The Stellar Heavenly Cycle played an important role in allowing the Bai family to become the number one family clan on Numinous Treasure Mountain, the place where Daoism originated, as well as the world''s oldest family clan.


    Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash achieved the same goal through a different approach but was much weaker overall.


    "What?"


    Due to Matron Centaurea, Shadowless Fiendlord, and Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect''s actions, only one of the three centipede segments was not trapped by the Cyclic Sword Flash. Immediately, it split in horror. The segment split into five pieces, and they all simultaneously shot towards the ground. The moment they made contact with the ground, they burrowed deep within.


    The two trapped centipede segments failed to escape the Cyclic Sword Flash that the Heavy Sand Sword had produced.


    The other flying sword, Coiling Dust Sword, transformed into an illusionary moon-like sword beam and slashed at the two centipede segments. There were repeated slicing sounds and the segments were cut into four pieces, then into six, then eight¡­ In mere seconds, the centipede''s body was diced into dozens of pieces, losing all traces of life. Following that, its Cosmic Bag and various treasures fell to the ground.


    At that moment, another flying sword flew into the barrier. It was the second-grade flying sword, Wretched Blood Sword, that Qin Yun had just released.


    Wretched Blood Sword swept up the Cosmic Bag and treasures. As for the other two flying swords, Heavy Sand Sword and Coiling Dust Sword, they instantly burrowed into the ground to continue their pursuit of Temple Lord Ruyi.


    ¡­


    Temple Lord Ruyi''s remaining five pieces were fleeing desperately after burrowing into the ground.


    Every piece of his body started out fleeing in different directions but following that, all of them headed south! Although his body could split into many pieces, the distances between the pieces could not exceed five kilometers! He was unable to perfectly control each part of his body beyond that threshold.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    The two flying swords burrowed deep underground and chased in different directions.


    Temple Lord Ruyi was indeed fast when it came to burrowing through the earth! Few Connate Golden Cores could match his speed, but he wasn''t being pursued by people but flying swords! The flying swords were much faster than Qin Yun''s flying arts.


    "Phuah! Phuah!"''


    Two flying swords decimated two pieces of the centipede''s body after catching up to them. After slicing them apart, the pieces were devoid of any life. The centipede demon''s splitting had reached its limit.


    "I see, the different parts of his body cannot be more than five kilometers from each other." Through the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s psyche perception, he could sense fifteen kilometers out. At that moment, Temple Lord Ruyi''s five pieces had yet to exceed that range.


    "Pu!"


    Following that, the Heavy Sand Sword destroyed another piece of the centipede''s demonic body.


    There were only two pieces left.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    The two flying swords each honed in on a different piece.


    "Why are his flying swords so powerful? I am powerless in front of him. I can''t withstand his flying swords even though I''m at the Connate Golden Core realm." Temple Lord Ruyi''s remaining two pieces maintained a distance of five kilometers from each other as they frantically fled. By then, they were more than fifteen kilometers away from Qin Yun but the two flying swords were closing in on them.


    Through the flying swords, Qin Yun could sense his enemy too.


    Furthermore, his flying swords could now pursue enemies up to a distance of three hundred kilometers.


    Pew!


    The Coiling Dust Sword vanquished another one of Temple Lord Ruyi''s segments.


    "It''s coming!" With only one piece of his body left, Temple Lord Ruyi was in absolute horror.


    "Young Master Qin, spare me! Spare me, please!" Temple Lord Ruyi pleaded for mercy as he fled. As long as that one piece of his body could escape, it wouldn''t take long to recover and grow back to his complete true form.


    "Spare you? Have you forgotten what you did?" Qin Yun''s voice reverberated around his surroundings.


    "I¡­ I did go to the Qin Manor but all I did was take a look. Besides, I was sent retreating," said Temple Lord Ruyi immediately. "I didn''t hurt anyone from the Qin family."


    "You were only there to take a look? You, as a great fiendish demon at the Connate Golden Core, forcibly entered my Qin Manor''s protective array and only retreated after a battle. And you claim that you were only taking a look?" Qin Yun''s voice was filled with fury.


    "I was wrong. I was wrong! Spare me! Please spare me. If there''s anything you want me to do, just tell me," pleaded Temple Lord Ruyi.


    "I want you to die!"


    Pu!


    The dark purple Heavy Sand Sword tore through the mud and instantly penetrated Temple Lord Ruyi''s remnant body.


    "No!" Accompanied by a disgruntled roar, the final piece of his body quivered. The claws that were frantically burrowing convulsed and came to a stop. He was completely still.


    Shoo! Only then did the Heavy Sand Sword return.


    ¡­


    The seven great fiendish demons that were attacking relentlessly at Mt. Blue Granny stopped. They landed on a nearby mountain peak with conflicted expressions. They could sense that Temple Lord Ruyi''s transmission mark had dissipated from their transmission treasures. This left them appalled.


    "He''s dead?"


    "Temple Lord Ruyi is dead?"


    They found it unbelievable.


    It was not easy for a great fiendish demon to cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm. All of them placed a lot of effort on developing methods to preserve their lives. The weaker they were, the more emphasis they placed on life-preserving methods. Therefore, defeating a great fiendish demon was easy but killing one was extremely difficult! What''s more, there were seven other great fiendish demons around.


    "He managed to withstand our attacks and divert his attention to release two flying swords to kill Old Centipede under our noses?" Matron Centaurea whispered. "And back when he was fending us off, all he did was defend. He never counterattacked."


    "He has not used his true strength yet," added the blind elder solemnly. "That flying sword art of his easily killed Old Centipede without him being able to even touch the swords. He was completely at the mercy of Qin Yun. We may be stronger than Old Centipede but we aren''t that much stronger. If those two flying swords were to target us, we wouldn''t fare much better. Both Poison Dragon King and I would not be able to withstand those two flying swords."


    "Now that we are prepared, he won''t succeed." Princess Golden Yang remained full of fighting spirit.


    "Golden Yang, didn''t you notice?" Shadowless Fiendlord pointed into the distance. "Back when Qin Yun was dealing with us or when he killed Old Centipede, he remained sitting inside that wooden hut the whole time. Do you believe that he has used all his strength?"


    ¡­


    Temple Lord Ruyi''s transmission mark dissipated the moment he perished. Naturally, all the factions of the world quickly noticed it. The great fiendish demon Temple Lord Ruyi had been killed by Qin Yun!


    During this battle, a great fiendish demon was already killed while many great fiendish demons rushed over.


    "What an impressive flying sword art. Against his two flying swords, Temple Lord Ruyi could not withstand him at all and was at his mercy."


    "Temple Lord Ruyi split his body to escape but was still pursued to his death by two flying swords. What an impressive sword immortal."


    "Impressive."


    "Who said that Qin Yun is only good at defending? I find him more terrifying when it comes to killing enemies."


    All the spectators were astounded.


    Qin Yun had killed a great fiendish demon and it was a complete wipeout! This shocked many cultivators, fiendish demons, and the Water race.


    ¡­


    "He could risk his life for that lady named Yi Xiao, but who knew he is already this powerful? He''s only twenty-seven this year and he has already killed a great fiendish demon." In the royal palace, a girl dressed in a palatial grown was astonished by the scene that appeared in a bronze mirror in front of her.


    ¡­


    "Seventh Sister, this Qin Yun is too powerful. Temple Lord Ruyi died just like that!" In an exquisite hall of Heavenly Demon Palace, many women were seated and watching a projection that appeared in midair. All of them were gorgeous and had furry tails. They bantered with beautiful voices.


    Seventh Madam Yan looked up and nodded. "A few years ago, he helped me kill the three demon monarchs of Evil Dragon Mountain. I never expected him to get to this level of strength so quickly. He remains composed despite facing all those great fiendish demons, and instead easily killed a great fiendish demon."

 191 Paramount realm level

    Chapter 191: Paramount realm level


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Just a little showcase from Qin Yun was enough to astound the world. It made all factions realize that the young sword immortal was able to easily slay an ordinary great fiendish demon. Typically speaking, even Connate Golden Core cultivators at the intent domain level would find it difficult to kill a great fiendish demon. This made many parties begin to question¡­ Just how strong was Qin Yun?


    "He''s too young after all. He should only be at the level of intent domain! All he did was figure out some powerful sword attack."


    "Sword immortals are said to be capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They are best at attacking! This Qin Yun figured out a defensive sword art in the past, and now he must have figured out an offensive sword art."


    "He should only be at the level of the intent domain realm."


    The cultivators, fiendish demons, and Water race that were watching favored such an appraisal.


    After all, the higher level of the Paramount realm was something they did not even dare think about! There were very few people at the Paramount realm in the world! Reaching it was just too difficult.


    ¡­


    Regardless, the ease with which Qin Yun killed a great fiendish demon with decisive force had indeed left many fiendish demons trembling. For example, the seven great fiendish demons that were already present gathered together and were on high alert. They would not give Qin Yun another chance to strike.


    "I knew it."


    In the wooden hut, Qin Yun looked at the seven great fiendish demons on the distant mountain peak. "Once one of them fell in battle, it was bound to serve as a warning to the rest! Now they¡¯ll be vigilant and it will be more difficult to kill another one!"


    "Whatever." Qin Yun turned to look at his good friend''s grave. "I came here for Scholar. Now that he is dead, I''ll let this young demoness mourn for three days. As for these great fiendish demons? I can make use of them to test out my flying sword''s strength. I can also use them to astound all parties watching me. If I can kill another one or two great fiendish demons, it would be equivalent to saving millions of commoners. It will be immensely meritorious."


    Every great fiendish demon had a long lifespan, allowing them to be the bane of countless weaker beings.


    They presided over an area, and it was common for thousands of humans to be killed annually. Their lifespans were typically more than a thousand years and they truly were a baneful existence. In fact, the greatest harm these great fiendish demons caused was the result of their countless minions! All sorts of demons would pledge allegiance to a great fiendish demon and with the confidence of having a backer, these lesser demons would wreak havoc. Just like with Water God, many lesser demons wreaked havoc because he was backing them.


    Without Water God, the imperial government easily purged the demons. As such, the commoners of Grand Dominance immediately saw their lives improve tremendously.


    A great fiendish demon was the source of terror!


    Killing a great fiendish demon naturally garnered immense merit!


    "Now, I have showcased just a portion of my strength," thought Qin Yun. "I haven''t used all of my Connate Paramount realm''s strength yet. Perhaps, I might slay a great fiendish demon or two by taking them by surprise."


    "It''s already great that I can kill one." Qin Yun was in no hurry.


    Since ancient times, the battle between humans and fiendish demons had never ceased.


    ******


    Time flowed by.


    Qin Yun accompanied the fish demoness in watching over the tomb. The number of great fiendish demons outside Mt. Blue Granny also increased. Collectively, they had made repeated attempts to crack open Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash, but to no avail.


    "Swoosh."


    A black stream of light tore through the sky at an extremely fast speed. A massive black snake flew inside the black stream of light. On its back sat two cross-legged figures. One of them was Patriarch Crocdragon and the other was a green-dressed woman.


    Cave Lord Black Snake was, in fact, not inferior to Temple Lord Ruyi in terms of flying arts. However, his speed was slowed down greatly because he was carrying his companions.


    "Patriarch, Mt. Blue Granny is right in front of us." The black snake spoke in human language.


    "Alright." The dark yellow vertical-slit pupils on Patriarch Crocdragon''s plump face glowed. The corner of his mouth curled upwards. "It looks like I''m the first to arrive."


    What Patriarch Crocdragon meant was that among the existences that were on the same level as him, he was the first to arrive.


    "Patriarch Wolf Mountain and company are slower. This Qin Yun''s treasures will naturally belong to you, Patriarch Crocdragon." The green-dressed woman said with a chuckle.


    "Don''t worry. Neither of you will leave empty-handed." Patriarch Connate smiled. "However, this Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun should be at the level of a Connate Golden Core intent domain according to intelligence. Furthermore, he has figured out quite a powerful flying sword art. But does he think he can resist me with that bit of strength?"


    Paramount realm.


    It represented a hint of the Heavenly Dao''s core. Patriarch Crocdragon was an existence that matched the Paramount realm, and so his strength was naturally not to be underestimated.


    "Swoosh."


    As they arrived near Mt. Blue Granny, the black snake transformed into a coquettish youth again. He stood submissively behind Patriarch Crocdragon with the green-dressed woman.


    "Patriarch." At that moment, the other nine great fiendish demons that had already arrived felt their hearts tighten. Many even went forward to pay their respects.


    "Patriarch Crocdragon is here." Poison Dragon King sent Matron Centaurea a voice transmission. "With him here, we might not be able to share in the treasures when the time comes."


    "No hurry." Matron Centaurea said with a voice transmission. "Since that Qin Yun hasn''t fled, he probably has some hidden ability he¡¯s relying on. We should take a wait-and-see approach."


    Although Matron Centaurea dreaded Patriarch Crocdragon, she was not afraid of him. She was confident that she could survive against him.


    "Golden Yang, the last time I visited your father, you were only at the Connate False Core realm, right? In a blink of an eye, you are already at the Connate Golden Core realm." Patriarch Connate smiled as he greeted Princess Golden Yang.


    Princess Golden Yang beamed. "Uncle Crocdragon, I only came to join in the fun. We have to defer this matter to you, after all. The collective efforts of us nine have failed to crack open Qin Yun''s flying sword art. Uncle Crocdragon, your strength far exceeds ours. I believe you will definitely crack it open."


    Patriarch Crocdragon said with a smile, "We shouldn''t be careless. For that Qin Yun to not attempt an escape, he probably has something to rely on. Whatever, I''ll test him."


    With that said, Patriarch Crocdragon turned and transformed into a one-kilometer long creature that resembled a crocodile! His body was covered with large scales that resembled armor plating. His head was ferocious and massive. He could probably swallow a small hill if he opened his mouth wide. His massive, winding crocodile-like body lay prostrate in midair. Scaled armor on his back undulated like mountains.


    On closer inspection, every armored scale had dense runic patterns. Evil auras emanated from the surface of the runic patterns.


    The moment he revealed his true form, it left all the great fiendish demons present stifled.


    "Crocdragon Fiendbody." Everyone was astounded.


    Patriarch Crocdragon''s true form was a crocdragon, an ancient mutated species that could rival dragons! Such a body was naturally very powerful. Furthermore, he cultivated in a fiendcelestial Dharmic formulation, achieving a Fiendbody! It obviously reached an extremely terrifying state. Among human cultivators, only those at the Paramount realm could hope to match him.


    "Patriarch Crocdragon has shown his Fiendbody."


    "Can Qin Yun still withstand Patriarch Crocdragon?"


    The world fixed their attention on this.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun walked out of the wooden hut, also aware of the newcomer. He looked up to see Patriarch Crocdragon, who blotted out half the sky. Patriarch Crocdragon overlooked his surroundings as his remarkable eyes protruded out from his head. His vertical-slit pupils were filled with coldness.


    "This¡­ This¡­" Fu Sizhuo was trembling. Just seeing Patriarch Crocdragon''s true form left her horrified.


    "Don''t be afraid. If you can¡¯t stand it, just cover your eyes," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    The fish demoness nodded and covered her eyes with both her hands. Yet, she secretly peeped through the crevices of her fingers.


    "Patriarch Crocdragon is on par with the Paramount realm," thought Qin Yun. "He is the strongest opponent I have ever met."


    "Human."


    Patriarch Crocdragon''s massive body resulted in a deep and rumbling voice. "If you were to hand your treasures over without a fuss, I would promise to spare you. I can even escort you back to Grand Dominance. This is the only chance for your survival. You must grasp it."


    Patriarch Crocdragon was well aware that once he truly killed Qin Yun, all the great fiendish demons would charge forward to snatch Qin Yun''s treasures.


    For example, Matron Centaurea and Shadowless Fiendlord might not be his match, but they had the confidence to try and escape with their lives. They would definitely join in the fray.


    However, all the treasures would naturally fall into his hands if Qin Yun handed them over.


    "There''s no need," declared Qin Yun.


    "Oh? Since you refuse to take the safe way out, I want to see what gives you your confidence." Patriarch Crocdragon''s massive body suddenly turned as the thick and long Crocdragon tail lashed out. Boom! It was as though the world was spinning, even the air was twisted thoroughly. The other great fiendish demons a distance away braced themselves.


    The gigantic crocdragon tail seemed to bore through the heaven and earth and as it lashed down at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier with an incredulous might.

 192 Dumbstruck Part 1/2

    "Bam!" The Cyclic Sword Flash barrier that enveloped Mt. Blue Granny quivered slightly but it remained undamaged.


    However, the surrounding area was reduced to ruins. The remnant shockwaves alone had toppled numerous trees in the distance. Rocks flew wantonly from the mountains. The only thing that remained unperturbed was Mt. Blue Granny itself.


    "What?"


    Patriarch Crocdragon looked down at Mt. Blue Granny in midair in shock.


    He was of extraordinary birth and he had cultivated a Fiendbody. When it came to combat strength, he could fight evenly with Paramount realm existences. His strength stemmed from his body and, although his cultivation realm was somewhat lacking, his powerful body allowed him to stand proudly among entities at the Paramount realm! Even if the nine great fiendish demons that were present joined forces, they could not match in strength.


    "I refuse to believe it." Patriarch Crocdragon was somewhat burning with embarrassment.


    "Boom!"


    His body coiled up and was still for a moment, before his massive crocdragon Fiendbody blasted forward, slamming heavily against the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. Immediately, the kilometer-long body¡¯s impact sent out shockwaves that pulverized the surrounding mountains!


    He continued slamming with his body, swiping with his claws, and lashing out with his tail.


    The attacks seemed simple but every strike had the might to render the world asunder. Yet, he did not leave a single mark on the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "This flying sword art is rather powerful. Alright then, have fun with your sword art in my stomach!" Patriarch Crocdragon suddenly opened his gaping mouth. Although his mouth was big, it would not have been able to swallow Mt. Blue Granny whole. But when he opened his mouth, it clearly increased in size as it attempted to swallow the massive Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun had remained composed while standing outside the wooden hut all this time, but at that moment, his expression changed slightly.


    He saw Patriarch Crocdragon open his gaping mouth, and the black distorted space within it.


    "Crocdragons are an ancient mutated species. They can devour all things. They have another world in their bodies and if I''m swallowed, I might not be able to escape." Qin Yun commanded, "Enlarge! Enlarge! Enlarge!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword that was casting the Cyclic Sword Flash suddenly expanded.


    It went from barely enveloping Mt. Blue Granny to instantly doubling in size.


    Although Patriarch Crocdragon had opened his mouth wide enough to swallow Mt. Blue Granny, he could not swallow the massive spherical Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "Ka!" His gaping mouth bit down on the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier but the teeth failed to penetrate it. His dark yellow eyes were filled with shock.


    Phew.


    The massive crocdragon Fiendbody spun around and transformed back into a short and plump male form. He looked coldly at the Cyclic Sword Flash as it shrunk back to a size that adequately protected Mt. Blue Granny.


    "A flying sword art that produces the Heavenly Cycles should have its resistive strength decreased if it rapidly expands like that. Even so, I failed to bite through it?" Patriarch Crocdragon found it unbelievable. He knew that his claws and tail were sufficient to make many great fiendish demons and cultivators shudder in fear but his mouth was the strongest! It could devour everything. Even ordinary Dharma treasures were easily crushed in his mouth.


    When Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash expanded, its strength should have decreased; yet, his bite had failed to tear through it.


    ¡­


    Indeed, the Cyclic Sword Flash could not expand limitlessly. Maintaining it at three thousand feet was the most Qin Yun could do. Any bigger and its defensive strength would begin to decrease.


    However, Qin Yun was a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal. The Paramount realm he gained insight in was one of defense too. Therefore, the production of the Heavenly Cycles was something that even Patriarch Crocdragon failed to pose a threat to. Even if he were several times stronger, there was no way he could crack open the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    "Oh? Another Paramount realm?" Qin Yun''s eyelids twitched. "I was planning on using this opportunity to astound the world but who knew that other than Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon, another existence at the Paramount realm would come?"


    "Swoosh."


    A yellow gust of wind blew in from afar.


    A yellow-robed Daoist materialized in midair. He held a whisk in his hand and on his face was a beaming smile.


    "It''s Daolord."


    "Daolord is here."


    "Greetings, Daolord."


    These great fiendish demons immediately bowed when they saw the yellow-robed Daoist.


    Patriarch Crocdragon looked at the yellow-robed Daoist and snorted coldly. "I never expected an old Daoist like you to come too."


    "Brother Crocdragon, you haven''t been able to crack open this flying sword art. From the looks of it, you need me to give you a hand," said the yellow-robed Daoist with a smile.


    Fiendish demons were typically weaker in cultivation than humans. For example, any human that attained the Connate Golden Core had grasped the implications of the Heavenly Dao! But for great fiendish demons, many of them relied on the fiendish demon Dharmic formulations. Their Fiendbodies were the source of most of their power, and allowed them to be on par with Connate Golden Cores. For example, Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon had combat strength that rivaled the Paramount realm!


    But it did not mean that their cultivation had reached the Paramount realm.


    As for the yellow-robed Daoist, he was different. He was a weasel that had turned into a demon. He had secretly studied in a Daoist temple and learned the Daoist Dharmic formulations. Later on, out of sheer luck, he obtained the heritage, ''Yellow Wind True Sutra.'' It allowed him to eventually reach the Connate Golden Core realm! However, he continued having a fiendish demon character. He was ruthless and he commonly killed and plundered for treasures.


    He called himself Yellow Wind Daolord. One had to know that the term Daolord was a very honorific title. Even Essence Soul immortals did not dare address themselves as Daolords.


    He was a great fiendish demon but he called himself Yellow Wind Daolord! However, he had really achieved the Paramount realm! No one could stop him from taking whatever name he wanted.


    Among humans, before Qin Yun made his attainment public, there were only nine people currently at the Paramount realm.


    For a weasel to cultivate the Daoist Dharmic formulations to similarly reach the Paramount realm made many human cultivators ashamed of themselves.


    "Brother Yellow Wind, this Qin Yun''s flying sword art isn''t that easy to crack," said Patriarch Crocdragon.


    "Let''s cooperate and give it a try," said Yellow Wind Daolord with a smile.


    "Alright, we will split the treasures equally," replied Patriarch Crocdragon.


    Yellow Wind Daolord nodded.


    At that moment, Matron Centaurea, Shadowless Fiendlord, Princess Golden Yang and the other great fiendish demons were watching silently. Once Qin Yun was killed, they would have to depend on their own capabilities to vie for the treasures.


    "Phew." Yellow Wind Daolord smiled as he brandished the whisk in his hand.


    Every thread in the whisk lit up with runic patterns. Immediately, a blurry gust of yellow wind surged towards the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    The yellow wind could crumble gold to powder and pulverize physical bodies. It was a famous Dharma spell of Yellow Wind Daolord. The Yellow Wind True Sutra was also an ancient heritage of the Daoist lineage. Yet although it was in the hands of many parties, it had been very long since anyone had mastered it. The weasel had enough talent that he was able to learn the powerful Dharma spell.


    "Woosh!" The yellow winds blew from the west and struck the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. It could penetrate every hole and work its way into the most minute pores, destroying everything from within.


    However, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier did not have any holes. It was a perfect demonstration of the Heavenly Cycle that could withstand all powers. The sword barrier weakened the yellow winds and withstood them, preventing them from touching Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. Qin Yun felt that although his Intrinsic Flying Sword was a third-grade flying sword, it would be damaged if he allowed the yellow winds to touch it.


    "Break!"


    Patriarch Crocdragon transformed into his massive Fiendbody and lashed out his crocdragon tail, striking heavily at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    Rumble!


    The both of them attacked with forces that were disparate in approach. The yellow wind was gentle while Patriarch Crocdragon''s Fiendbody was domineering. Under their combined might, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier continued enveloping Mt. Blue Granny and was not shaken at all.


    "What? The combined efforts of two great fiendish demons at the level of the Paramount realm can''t break it?" The spectators were astounded and in disbelief. The sword flash barrier was just too powerful.


    Yellow Wind Daolord and Patriarch Crocdragon found it utterly unbelievable.


    What sort of status did they have?


    They had put aside their reputations to join forces, all in a bid to obtain treasures; yet, they had failed to crack it.


    "The eleven of you, join us. All of us will cooperate and crack his flying sword art." Patriarch Crocdragon''s voice rumbled.


    "Alright."


    "Together."


    Matron Centaurea, Shadowless Fiendlord, Princess Golden Yang, Cave Lord Black Snake, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect replied in unison. Among the eleven of them, some of them were only ordinary great fiendish demons. Some had combat strength at the intent domain level but when combined, their strength could match that of a Paramount realm being! As for why they could only match a single Paramount realm existence¡­


    It was because the Paramount realm was truly an incredible state. For example, Patriarch Crocdragon''s Fiendbody was immensely powerful. His physical strength allowed him to hold off six to seven great fiendish demons at the intent domain level. As for Yellow Wind Daolord, his yellow wind was an extremely gentle attack. It was not powerful in strength but it was much more difficult to block than a physical attack.


    Instantly, all sorts of methods were used. Yellow Wind Daolord and Patriarch Crocdragon attacked from the west and east respectively. The other eleven fiendish demons also split into two parties that attacked from the north and south.


    All the great fiendish demons joined forces to attack the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    This scene was witnessed by all the factions in the world. It was shocking! It was shocking how resistant the Sword Flash barrier was!

 193 Dumbstruck Part 2/2

    No matter how fiercely the thirteen great fiendish demons, including Yellow Wind Daolord and Patriarch Crocdragon, unleashed their relentless barrage of attacks, Qin Yun only shook his head. He turned and walked to Scholar''s tomb.


    He sat down and began drinking from his alcohol flask.


    "Scholar, you always claimed to be lonely. Yet you have a daughter observing the filial rituals after your death. Not bad for you! You ended up much better than Priest and the rest. They died on the battlefield and we didn''t even know where their hometowns were. But nevermind. We volunteered to enter the battlefield and were long prepared to die there," said Qin Yun with a smile. "By the way, I know the fiendish demons around are being a little noisy. Bear with it. In less than a day, they will all scamper away and return home."


    "Boom!"


    There was no end to the assaulting blasts outside the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    By the side, Fu Sizhuo could not help but feel horrified seeing the attackers outside. They were all great fiendish demons, after all. Then, she looked at Qin Yun sitting beside the tomb, drinking. She could not help but recall the days she spent with her adopted father and as a result, tears began to well up in her eyes.


    "Ignore them. Just imagine that it¡¯s fireworks," said Qin Yun.


    "Okay," replied the young fish demoness obediently. She knelt down again and began burning the incense money. She could not help but ask, "Uncle Qin, how long will these great fiendish demons be attacking?"


    "They will eventually tire out," replied Qin Yun with a smile.


    Fu Sizhuo nodded.


    She felt a baffling sense of serenity. There were thirteen great fiendish demons attacking outside Mt. Blue Granny; yet, Qin Yun was drinking alcohol in front of the tomb and chattering away. She felt that she would remember this moment for her entire life.


    As Qin Yun drank his alcohol, he would make occasional comments beside the tomb.


    He would recount the past or talk about his fellow brother-in-arms.


    As for the great fiendish demons, Qin Yun never gave them any of his attention! Once he truly demonstrated his strength and scared the great fiendish demons, they would scatter like frightened birds. Mt. Blue Granny would eventually regain its peace. Qin Yun was simply waiting, waiting for a better opportunity to demonstrate his true strength. The great fiendish demons surrounding him were not worth it.


    As for Patriarch Crocdragon and Yellow Wind Daolord? They had combat strength at the Paramount realm and Qin Yun knew that even if he used all his strength, he would be roughly on par with them. It was not a guarantee that he could defeat them, much less kill them.


    ¡­


    The combined assault from the thirteen great fiendish demons eventually came to a halt. Their attacks were useless and Qin Yun couldn''t even be bothered to give them a second look. Instead, he stayed in front of the tomb drinking. The young fish demoness was even burning incense money in front of the tomb. What else could they do? They could only stop.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The group of great fiendish demons retreated to a mountain a distance away.


    "Even with all of us joining forces, we actually still can''t crack his flying sword art."


    "Why is his flying sword art so powerful?"


    "It''s really odd."


    "If an expert at the Connate Golden Core intent domain level is good at defending, it''s possible for him to withstand a Paramount realm existence. But this Qin Yun has managed to withstand Daolord, Patriarch Crocdragon, and all of our combined attacks. It''s too preposterous. Could it be that he has reached the Paramount realm?" The blind elder could not help but comment.


    "Impossible."


    "Paramount realm? How long has he been cultivating? How can you say that he''s at the Paramount realm?"


    The great fiendish demons were in heated discussion.


    It was indeed true that the intent domain level''s defense could withstand a Paramount realm power, but the way Qin Yun did it was truly rare.


    It left some of the great fiendish demons shuddering. They began wondering if Qin Yun had attained the Paramount realm. However, they also found it unbelievable that someone could reach the Paramount realm at age twenty-seven.


    "Strangest of all, he has never counterattacked."


    "Yes, all he does is defend. He did not even counterattack when we attacked him together. Come to think of it, the only time he counterattacked, he killed Temple Lord Ruyi. After that, he ignored everything else we¡¯ve been doing."


    "That young fish demoness is burning incense money. Is that Qin Yun observing the funeral rituals too?"


    "From the looks of it, that''s what he''s doing. He doesn''t want to be bothered with us."


    ******


    Just ten minutes later, Patriarch Wolf Mountain and six other great fiendish demons arrived obstreperously on a cloud. Leading them was a silver-haired elder with his hands behind his back. Beside him were the black-robed Nine Mountain Island Lord, Metallic-armed Ape Fiend who was flailing his arms, and several others.


    "Brother Wolf Mountain, we were waiting for you." Yellow Wind Daolord said with a bright laughter that resounded through the world.


    "Wolf Mountain, that Qin Yun''s flying sword arts cannot be broken through despite our combined efforts. If we still can''t crack it with you here, I believe it''s time we return home." Patriarch Crocdragon''s short and plump figure emitted an ice-cold voice.


    "This Qin Yun''s flying sword arts have exceeded my expectations. Let''s give it a try." Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s voice gave a resounding boom. "If we can crack his flying sword arts through our combined efforts, it''s natural that we will slay him. If not, let''s disperse and return."


    "Yea."


    "Let''s give it a try."


    Any other time, these great fiendish demons would kill each other for treasures. But now, Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash was covering Mt. Blue Granny. They had tried every means at their disposal to crack it but to no avail. At that moment, they no longer cared about vying for the treasures. They made cracking the flying sword art top priority.


    If they were to fail and return with tails between their legs this time, it would truly be embarrassing.


    ¡­


    About ten kilometers away from Mt. Blue Granny.


    A drunken elder sat on a boulder and peered at Mt. Blue Granny from afar. "I just received news that this Qin Yun appeared in Qian Prefecture''s Jia''an County. I rushed here all the way from the north and it sure was tiring. I actually managed to get here in time. Yet, this Qin Yun hasn''t requested for help all this while? Nor did he seek the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s help? From the looks of it, his flying sword art is something even twenty great fiendish demons can''t crack."


    Other than Qin Yun, the human race had nine people at the Paramount realm.


    They were scattered around the world.


    These great fiendish demons had rushed to Qian Prefecture from the Jiang Prefecture because it was nearby! If the nine humans at the Paramount realm wanted to rush over, it would be difficult for them to arrive in time. In addition, Qin Yun had never even asked for help. The enthusiastic Drunken Immortal took it upon himself to rush over with his flying arts.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun could sense fifteen kilometers out with his Intrinsic Flying Sword from Mt. Blue Granny.


    "A cultivator? I didn''t request for any help." Qin Yun sensed the appearance of the cultivator ten kilometers away. The corners of his mouth curved up as he looked up to see Patriarch Wolf Mountain and the other six great fiendish demons that had just appeared high in the sky.


    To be precise, Qin Yun''s gaze landed on Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Nine Mountain Island Lord."


    "Do you know that back when I killed Temple Lord Ruyi, I did not showcase the full extent of my abilities? I have been besieged by so many great fiendish demons but I have only defended without counterattacking! I did all of that because I was waiting for you." Killing intent rose in Qin Yun''s heart. "Nine Mountain Island Lord, I have waited years to kill you."


    From a young age, he swore to seek revenge for his sister.


    Killing Water God was his goal for the longest time, but after killing Water God and confronting the fiendish demon spy, Gongye Bing, Qin Yun realized that the large amount of children''s heart blood was given to Nine Mountain Island Lord. He was the true mastermind behind Water God.


    As such, his sister''s death had a lot to do with Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Begin!" Patriarch Crocdragon bellowed. He had already transformed into his massive crocdragon Fiendbody. His massive body took up about twenty percent of the space. Yellow Wind Daolord and Patriarch Wolf Mountain each took up about ten percent of the space. The remaining great fiendish demons all began putting their full might into a concerted effort.


    Instantly, twenty great fiendish demons attacked at full strength.


    Three of them were at a level equivalent to the Paramount realm. One had to know that among all the great fiendish demons in the world, there were only a total of twelve at the level of the Paramount realm! The gravity of this siege naturally spoke volumes. Before the clash, everyone believed without a doubt that Qin Yun could not withstand the attacks unless he had some special thing to rely on. But now, from the looks of it, his flying sword''s production of the Heavenly Cycles was just too powerful.


    "Boom!" The twenty great fiendish demons attacked with all their might in an attempt to crack open the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    Qin Yun put away his alcohol flask and solemnly looked up into the sky.


    He saw it.


    Among them, there was a black-robed figure who wielded an ancient and unadorned ax in a domineering fashion as he directly cleaved down on the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. He was none other than Nine Mountain Island Lord. In terms of strength, he was second only to Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon among the fiendish demons present. Even the ancient mutated Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was inferior to Nine Mountain Island Lord in strength.


    "Nine Mountain Island Lord." Qin Yun''s eyes were brimming with killing intent.


    A ring of seven beads around his wrist rapidly transformed into seven flying swords. The seven flying swords naturally fused together, forming a blurry gray flying sword. It was Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, and the only first-grade flying sword Qin Yun presently possessed.


    In order to kill Nine Mountain Island Lord, Qin Yun was going to use all his strength.

 194 Infinite Converging Sword

    Chapter 194: Infinite Converging Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the second-grade Coiling Dust Sword immediately cast Cyclic Sword Flash!


    "Coiling Dust Sword is a second-grade flying sword and the strength of its Cyclic Sword Flash is sixty percent of my Intrinsic Flying Sword''s!" thought Qin Yun. "However, I''m best at defense. Even sixty percent is sufficient to withstand this group of fiendish demons."


    He was a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal. The inherent nature of the Paramount realm he gained insight in was one of defense. Out of all his sword arts, the strongest was Cyclic Sword Flash. Putting aside those at the same Paramount realm level as him, even existences that were one level higher than him, those that had stepped into the Dao, could be fended off by his Cyclic Sword Flash. Of course, it also depended on the existence in question and what Dao they eventually gained insights into. If he had to fight someone like Elder Sword, who could slay a fiendcelestial, Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash would not be able to defend against him.


    Qin Yun was most adept at the Cyclic Sword Flash and against enemies at the same Paramount realm, it was not difficult for him to defend against five or six of them.


    He had been using his Intrinsic Flying Sword all this time.


    That was because it was powerful, and also because it drained very little of his Dharmic powers. Using a second-grade flying sword drained Dharmic powers at a rate several times faster than that of the Intrinsic Flying Sword and it was a lot weaker. If it were a first-grade flying sword, its strength would be equivalent to his Intrinsic Flying Sword. But it would drain his Dharmic powers at a rate dozens of times faster than the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Kill!"


    While the Coiling Dust Sword cast Cyclic Sword Flash, the great fiendish demons beyond the barrier were still in a state of shock. The Intrinsic Flying Sword began to cast Qin Yun''s strongest offensive attack.


    Not only did he have to fully immerse himself in the understanding of his Paramount realm, he also had to attune his state of mind. He needed to enter a crazy and passionate state. This attack had been created from the feelings he had for Yi Xiao. It was a bet that burned his own life while risking everything. Casting this attack was mentally-draining! Qin Yun would not use this attack unless absolutely necessary.


    But in order to kill Nine Mountain Island Lord, Qin Yun was willing to give all that he had.


    "Hum!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword moved.


    At the instant it blasted off, the surrounding space resonated in unison. The Heaven and Earth powers seemed to be forcibly under his control, condensing sword beams that followed the Intrinsic Flying Sword!


    That was not all.


    Even among the twenty attacking fiendish demons, the divine sword that Shadowless Fiendlord wielded suddenly seemed to lose control and fly out. The sword-shaped Dharma treasure floating beside Princess Golden Yang did the same.


    "What''s going on?" Shadowless Fiendlord''s expression changed drastically. He grabbed his divine sword with both hands and tried his best to stop it. However, the divine sword continued trembling in a bid to escape his grasp.


    "What?" As for the sword-shaped Dharma treasure floating beside Princess Golden Yang, it flew out and did not heed Princess Golden Yang''s commands at all.


    Boom!


    A brilliant sword beam that seemed to be more glaring that the sun in the sky shot straight towards Nine Mountain Island Lord who was brandishing his ancient and unadorned ax.


    Following that, the several hundred sword flashes condensed from the Heaven and Earth powers, along with Princess Golden Yang''s sword-shaped Dharma treasure, hurtled towards Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    "Sword Flash Dissociation? Furthermore, it has reached the stage of Infinite Converging Sword?" The great fiendish demons were dumbstruck when they saw the scene.


    Sword Flash Dissociation was a legendary technique of the sword immortal lineage.


    It was typical for sword immortals that reached the Paramount realm to have numerous sword flashes accompanying a flying sword art when it was cast.


    As for Infinite Converging Sword, it was an extremum of Sword Flash Dissociation! It meant that not only could it influence the Heaven and Earth powers to condense pursuing sword flashes, it could even control the divine swords, or any sword-shaped treasures, of others. It was true to the name¡ªInfinite Converging Sword, where all swords heeded the command to converge.


    How mighty could it be, considering it even made sword-shaped Dharma treasures of others take part in the convergence?


    In this world¡­ the top cultivation sect, Sword Tower had a sword immortal at the Connate Paramount realm. When fighting for his life, he had once cast an extremely shocking strike that reached the state of Infinite Converging Sword.


    But the scene that had just happened left the twenty fiendish demons dumbstruck.


    "No!" Nine Mountain Island Lord refused to believe it. A legendary flying sword art like Infinite Converging Sword was appearing right in front of him.


    "Boom!"


    The dazzling sword flash tore through Nine Mountain Island Lord''s chest like a glaring sun.


    Rip!


    Following that, hundreds of sword flashes, together with Princess Golden Yang''s sword-shaped Dharma treasure, penetrated Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body in pursuit of the first flash. Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body exploded, sending countless black rocks flying in every direction.


    "Roar¡ª"


    That indomitable momentum reduced by about thirty percent after boring through Nine Mountain Island Lord''s chest. However, it continued towards the nearby blind elder, Valley Lord Windhark. In shock, it was all he could do to transform his hands into wings and flap them vigorously. Layers of shockwaves interlocked like a protective shell as he did his best to dodge. But with a boom, the glaring flying sword flash penetrated him, followed by hundreds of sword flashes that followed in its wake. A massive bat corpse plummeted from the sky. The great fiendish demon, Valley Lord Windhark, was dead!


    Even though the flying sword flash''s might was reduced slightly, it curved around and blasted straight for the nearest demon, Poison Dragon King.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!" Thankfully, Matron Centaurea was constantly on alert.Gigantic veins immediately flew to circle Poison Dragon King.


    Rumble¡ª


    A world-shaking boom sounded. Sixteen of Matron Centaurea''s veins broke one after another, reducing the flying sword''s strength. Only with that was Poison Dragon King able to escape.


    "What?"


    The great fiendish demons, including Matron Centaurea, instinctively flew back in retreat! Matron Centaurea, who was closest to Valley Lord Windhark, did not even bother to grab the treasures he left behind because she, as well as the others, were too afraid!


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Everyone flew back. Some were fleeing! It was purely instinctual!


    The three great fiendish demons at the Paramount realm level¡ªPatriarch Wolf Mountain, Patriarch Crocdragon, and Yellow Wind Daolord¡ªhalted their attacks. They stared at Qin Yun in midair and were extremely solemn.


    "Phew." After Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body exploded into countless black rocks, the black rocks rapidly gathered together in midair far away, forming a stone humanoid that transformed into Nine Mountain Island Lord. He was looking at Qin Yun with astonishment. He immediately fled, "He injured my intrinsic core with just one strike. If I get hit another five times, I''ll be dead! Flee! Flee! Flee!"


    "What a pity."


    On Mt. Blue Granny, Qin Yun looked up and his eyes carried a sense of loss. "Nine Mountain Island Lord is indeed a rare mountain that turned demonic! Even with me using all my strength on that strike, expending a great deal of my mental strength, all I did was make his aura weaker. It will likely take another ten strikes to be confident that I killed him."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord''s true form was that of a mountain!


    It was very rare and the annals of history depicted extremely few occurrences of such. In this present era, Nine Mountain Island Lord was the only great fiendish demon whose true form was a mountain.


    As his true form was that of a mountain, he had immense strength! He was an existence that was closing in on the Paramount realm. Only Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon, who had cultivated their Fiendbodies to a level that matched the Paramount realm, had superior strength than him. Furthermore, he was not like ordinary demons, whose hearts were their vital weaknesses. His entire body was a mountain so he had no weaknesses!


    As such, it was extremely difficult to kill him.


    "Phew." The flying sword took the treasures left behind by Valley Lord Windhark and flew back to Qin Yun, who put them away casually.


    "Whatever, I''ll slay that Nine Mountain in the future, when I''m stronger," thought Qin Yun.


    The trio of Paramount realm-level great fiendish demons stared at Qin Yun intently. As for Nine Mountain Island Lord and the rest, they had escaped dozens of kilometers away.


    Just the single strike from before had penetrated Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body and killed Valley Lord Windhark. Poison Dragon King was saved by Matron Centaurea only because she was using all her strength. Who wouldn''t be afraid of such might?


    "Infinite Converging Sword?"


    "Sword Flash Dissociation, Infinite Converging Sword."


    In midair, Patriarch Wolf Mountain, Patriarch Crocdragon, and Yellow Wind Daolord watched Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun undid the Cyclic Sword Flash and looked back at the remaining three.


    "Qin Yun, I underestimated you. I never imagined that you had already reached the Paramount realm! To think that, in this world, a new Paramount realm sword immortal has appeared to stand beside Sword Tower''s Cui Lianfeng." Patriarch Wolf Mountain stood there, his body covered with a layer of silver fur that gleamed in the moonlight. There was a faint black halo suffusing his fur as his hands grabbed onto a saber.


    "A Paramount realm sword immortal. It''s no wonder you were so emboldened. Your strength is in no way inferior to ours." Patriarch Crocdragon''s massive body looked down as his voice rumbled. "A flying sword art like Infinite Converging Sword would injure even me. However, even that mad Cui Lianfeng would be greatly drained after using Infinite Converging Sword once. How many more times can you cast that?"


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, you sure have concealed your strength well. Now then, let me see to what extent you have cultivated your flying sword art." Yellow Wind Daolord smiled as he held his whisk. However, his eyes were cold.


    "The sword art I recently created just happens to be in need of opponents to test it out." Qin Yun smiled. Two flying swords floated in front of him. One of them was the misty rain-like Intrinsic Flying Sword and the other was a blurry-gray flying sword.

 195 Curtain Falls on the Massive Battle

    Chapter 195: Curtain Falls on the Massive Battle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The other great fiendish demons had long begun escaping.


    "Darn it, Qin Yun is already a Paramount realm sword immortal at such a young age. Back when I saw him alone in Jia''an County, I just thought he had some powerful life-preservation means to rely on. Who knew that he himself was that powerful!" said Poison Dragon King as he flew. "If I remember correctly, he''s only twenty-seven this year! Being a twenty-seven-year-old Paramount realm sword immortal makes him comparable to the most heaven-defying and peerless sword immortals in all of history."


    From time immemorial, the sword immortals that could step into the Dao that meant grasping Sword Dao were illustrious figures. For example, a peerless sword immortal like Elder Sword was considered to have accomplished a lot at a late age. He knocked open the gate of immortality at twelve but he had cultivated in the talisman amulet school of thought. He was mediocre for more than two decades and only obtained a Sword Immortal Legacy at thirty-six, allowing him to follow the sword immortal school of thought. As for Qin Yun, he was considered relatively normal. He was dazzling at a young age and grasped sword intent at the Postnatal realm with Expertise Nearing Dao. His cultivation could increase by leaps and bounds with nearly zero bottleneck from the Postnatal to Connate Golden Core realm. The legendary Paramount realm, however, was something intrinsic. Many sword immortals at the intent domain stage could not come into contact with the Paramount realm despite working hard at it for very long. However, those who could grasp sword intent at the Postnatal realm through Expertise Nearing Dao had their understanding pointed towards that intrinsic nature subconsciously. It basically prevented one from going astray in cultivation.


    Therefore, the moment their Paramount realm was exposed, great fiendish demons would put in a concerted effort to kill them.


    Either they perished early or they would develop their strength and awe the world!


    "A twenty-seven-year-old Paramount realm sword immortal. Compared to the present sword immortals, that''s way too ridiculous. But compared to the historical sword immortals who had grasped Sword Dao, that''s normal," said Matron Centaurea.


    "Sister Centaurea, do you mean that this Qin Yun will eventually be able to enter the Dao and grasp Sword Dao?" The flying Nine Mountain Island Lord could not help but ask.


    "Brother Nine Mountain, he is an itinerant sword immortal and he has attained the Paramount realm at twenty-seven. He is even able to cast a flying sword art at the level of Infinite Converging Sword. Do you think he won''t be able to enter the Dao in the future?" Matron Centaurea shook her head.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord fell silent.


    That''s right.


    Qin Yun still had more than four hundred years left in his lifespan. They were only fooling themselves if they thought he would fail to enter the Dao in the next four hundred plus years.


    "Why did I offend him?" Nine Mountain Island Lord thought to himself. "According to my investigations, Qin Yun lived in a village when he was young. His younger sister''s date of birth indicated that she was a girl with pure Yin characteristics, which led to her eventual capture. Qin Yun should know by now that the boys and girls¡­ were actually not needed by Water Ape, but by me. He will not forget this vendetta."


    Beside him, Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect said, "This Qin Yun sure is treacherous. He has long broken through to the Paramount realm but he kept it a secret. He deliberately baited us out so as to use our lives as a testament to his flying sword''s might."


    "If we knew he was that powerful, we wouldn''t have given him the chance." The great fiendish demons discussed as they fled.


    Previously, they had been attacking Qin Yun together.


    That was because the intelligence they received only indicated that Qin Yun''s flying sword arts were powerful defensively. He could even withstand the Earth fire in the immortal abode! No one believed that Qin Yun was that heaven-defying when it came to attacking. If he was, why did he not react when Patriarch Tenebrous Aspect was attacking him alone?


    As for Qin Yun killing Temple Lord Ruyi, it did make them reevaluate him but they still believed that they could avoid being killed if they were a little more careful.


    Who knew that he was a Connate Paramount realm sword immortal?


    When the flying sword flew out and underwent Sword Flash Dissociation and Infinite Converging Sword, it scared the wits out of the great fiendish demons. They wouldn''t even dare to watch the battle from afar, afraid that Qin Yun would release two flying swords to pursue them.


    ¡­


    "Paramount realm sword immortal?" Ten kilometers from Mt. Blue Granny, a tipsy elder sat on a boulder. His eyes lit up as he stared intently at the distant Mt. Blue Granny.


    "Hahaha!!!"


    Drunken Immortal excitedly threw the calabash of alcohol in his hand and said with a rapturous laugh, "Nice, what an impressive one you are, Qin Yun. We humans have another Paramount realm sword immortal! More light from providence has shined on us humans!"


    "And this Qin Yun sure is ruthless. He deliberately concealed the truth and, in one shot, killed two great fiendish demons. How satisfying!" Drunken Immortal laughed out loudly.


    These great fiendish demons usually hid in their lairs or in their sects.


    Those that dared to preside over an area had their lairs protected by numerous array formations. It was more than ten times harder to kill great fiendish demons that hid in their lair. And those whose lairs were lacking in array formations, or those whose life-preservation methods were lacking, would hide in their sects. For example, they would cultivate in Cloudfiend Mountain! Although they could not be a hegemon of an area, it was a lot safer.


    "Let me see what other moves this Qin Yun has besides his Infinite Converging Sword." Drunken Immortal watched with anticipation.


    ******


    High above Mt. Blue Granny.


    Qin Yun was left with three great fiendish demons at the Paramount realm level. Instantly, they had begun their clash.


    "Go."


    Bright Moon Over River.


    River waters surged as a bright moon rose.


    Qin Yun had actually held back slightly when he killed Temple Lord Ruyi. He did not use Sword Flash Dissociation then but now, there was obviously no reason for him to hold back.


    The moon-like sword flash streaked across the sky and following in its wake were dozens of sword flashes composed of Heaven and Earth powers.


    First, it targeted Patriarch Crocdragon''s kilometer-long body.


    "Roar!" Patriarch Crocdragon opened his gaping mouth so wide that it could swallow a mountain in a bid to devour Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. He could devour anything and there was another world within his body. He was confident that he could devour any Dharma treasure, even a transcendent-grade one, if it were controlled by an existence at the Paramount realm.


    Shoo!


    The moon-like sword flash was fast, so it instantly maneuvered around Patriarch Crocdragon''s gaping mouth and sliced his belly. However, his scales were like armored plates with numerous runic patterns reinforcing them.


    A Paramount realm sword immortal''s flying sword was extremely potent. It sliced through the thick scales and left a gash in Patriarch Crocdragon''s thick flesh. But soon, it lost all its momentum. The flying sword immediately escaped but as it did so, dozens of sword flashes followed its original trajectory, plunging straight into Patriarch Crocdragon''s wound, causing blood to splatter.


    But to the kilometer-long Patriarch Crocdragon, the tiny gash was only a superficial wound. Furthermore, his wound was recovering at a discernible rate.


    "Patriarch Crocdragon''s body is too powerful. This bit of injury does not pose a threat to him at all," thought Qin Yun.


    "Swoosh."


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword turned around and once again the bright moon rose from the river! Dozens of sword flashes followed it to target Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain held two battle sabers as a black chain swirled around his body''s surface.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    In the face of Qin Yun''s flying sword, Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s two battle sabers instantly transformed into layers of saber walls. The saber flashes were so fast that they sealed off an area of space as though they were walls!


    In terms of profundity of attacks, Patriarch Wolf Mountain was a lot stronger than Patriarch Crocdragon.


    "Peng!" The Intrinsic Flying Sword was completely blocked by the two battle sabers. After it barely tore through the first saber wall, it was stopped by the second.


    "Puah Puah Puah¡­"


    Instead, it was the series of following sword flashes that the two battle sabers failed to withstand. Patriarch Wolf Mountain allowed the sword flashes to stab into his body. His silver fur fluttered, and when the sword flashes stabbed in, they were obstructed by his fur. His thick hide stopped them even further. He did not bleed.


    "This Qin Yun''s flying sword is very fast. I used my two sabers to block with all my strength. If I had been distracted when defending against those sword flashes, I would not have been able to ward them off." Patriarch Wolf Mountain was alarmed but he was confident about his body.


    "Whew!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into the moon-like sword flash and surged straight for Yellow Wind Daolord.


    Yellow Wind Daolord flicked his whisk gently.


    "Swoosh."


    A yellow wind howled, making Yellow Wind Daolord''s body turn blurry. When the Intrinsic Flying Sword penetrated the yellow wind, the dozens of sword flashes that accompanied it were dissipated by the yellow wind. The Intrinsic Flying Sword''s momentum decreased greatly and could not even touch Yellow Wind Daolord''s body.


    "This Yellow Wind Daolord''s attacks are mystical. As expected of someone who has reached the Paramount realm as well. The other two are lacking in technique but their bodies are extremely powerful." Qin Yun instantly evaluated the situation.


    "Swoosh."


    The yellow wind howled as it headed straight for Qin Yun.


    Mt. Blue Granny''s surroundings were protected by the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier once again, blocking all attacks.


    "Qin Yun, is this the only attack you have? Are you trying to scratch an itch for me?" Patriarch Crocdragon laughed out loudly.


    "Gentlemen, have a taste of another attack of mine." Qin Yun smiled.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    This time, the blurry gray sword in front of him shot forward.


    Elder Sword''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, Seven Kills Sword, and Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, Misty Rain Sword, flew in unison. As they tore through the sky together, they caused the world to resonate, sending out more than a hundred sword flashes to pursue them.


    The two flying swords flew through the air like butterflies in tandem. They also resembled lovers in a tangle, or the Yin and Yang of the world. Their harmony gave off an exquisite sense of beauty.


    It was one of Qin Yun''s three killer moves, Dual Flight.


    Dual Flight was performed by controlling two flying swords at the same time! As he had to control a first-grade flying sword, the amount of Dharmic powers this expended was dozens of times greater. Each of the two flying swords possessed might that was in no way inferior to Bright Moon Over River, but when they combined forces, they experienced an exponential increase in strength. This was a killer move Qin Yun used under normal circumstances. The only difference was that it expended a great deal of Dharmic power. As for Samsara, although it could achieve Infinite Converging Sword, it was too mentally draining.


    Phew! Phew!


    The moon-like sword flash was extremely fast.


    Dual Flight was extremely agile! They complemented each other like Yin and Yang and changed unpredictably.


    "That''s bad!" Patriarch Wolf Mountain wielded his two battle sabers in his hands as his expression changed slightly. The two flying swords were already in front of him with the hundred plus sword flashes.


    The trajectories were confusing as Yin and Yang rotated.


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain used all his strength to brandish the two battle sabers but he still failed to resist.


    Bam! Bam! The flying swords struck his battle sabers, easily deflecting them to the side.


    "Hum!" The black chains on Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s body began spinning and flew up to protect his body.


    Pu! Pu! Pu! Cling Clang!


    Although the chains occasionally blocked the flying swords, the flying swords would tear through his body most of the time. His skin ruptured despite its hardness, revealing the flesh beneath. His flesh had swirling black runic patterns that made it as resistant as Dharma treasures. Yet, Qin Yun''s two flying swords managed to rip open wounds in them.


    "To compete in offensive strength with a sword immortal is laughable." Patriarch Wolf Mountain bellowed and instantly appeared in front of the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, cleaving straight down with his battle sabers.


    Boom! Boom!


    The barrier remained unperturbed when he cleaved down on it.


    "Despite diverting his attention to control these flying swords, he is still able to defend." Patriarch Wolf Mountain was vexed. Blood was flowing from his body and all he could do was stare at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, this bit of injury will not affect me."


    "Go."


    With a thought, Qin Yun sent the two flying swords straight at Yellow Wind Daolord.


    Yellow Wind Daolord''s expression changed. Although he had mystical movement techniques that allowed him to be like a fish in water within the yellow wind, Qin Yun''s flying swords were similarly mystical and unpredictable. They surrounded him like an Yin-Yang fish.


    "Yellow Wind Divine Body!" Yellow Wind Daolord shouted immediately.


    The surrounding yellow wind transformed into a giant about a hundred feet tall with layers of interlocked shockwaves. Yellow Wind Daolord positioned himself within the giant.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The two flying swords came smiting down but only penetrated a portion of the Yellow Wind Divine Body, failing to even touch Yellow Wind Daolord''s body.


    "You forced me to use Yellow Wind Divine Body." Yellow Wind Daolord''s expression was grim. He had the weakest body among the three great fiendish demons and did not dare try and resist a Paramount realm sword immortal''s flying sword with his own body.


    "The three of them excel in different aspects," thought Qin Yun as well. "Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon have powerful bodies while Yellow Wind Daolord has a high cultivation realm. I really can''t kill any of them one on one. However, none of them can do a thing to me either."


    At the Paramount realm, killing another entity at the Paramount realm was too difficult.


    For example, Patriarch Crocdragon would be hard to kill even if five entities at the Paramount realm attacked him.


    "I can cast Samsara another time. I''ll use it to deal with¡­ him!" Qin Yun''s mind stirred.


    Boom!


    A sword flash that was more blinding than the sun lit up once again. The world trembled as hundreds of sword flashes condensed from the Heaven and Earth powers before they hurtled straight at Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    "Again?" Patriarch Wolf Mountain was alarmed. "And it''s directed at me?"

 196 Aftershocks

    Chapter 196: Aftershocks


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun could only cast Samsara twice and still ensure his safety. He had already used it once on Nine Mountain Island Lord. As for the last one, who should he use it against? Qin Yun surmised that Infinite Converging Sword could at best lightly injure Patriarch Crocdragon''s kilometer-long body! Yellow Wind Daolord might have a weaker body so it was possible to slay him if his strike hit, but his cultivation realm was rather high. Qin Yun felt that there was a very high chance that he could dodge his Infinite Converging Sword.


    Qin Yun was only confident that Patriarch Wolf Mountain could not dodge his attack!


    "He can actually cast the Infinite Converging Sword art twice!" Yellow Wind Daolord and Patriarch Crocdragon were alarmed.


    Boom!


    The sword flash was too fast!


    As Patriarch Wolf Mountain retreated rapidly, he brandished the battle saber in his hands. The chains around him flew out as well.


    "Boom!"


    The blinding sword flash tore through Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s chest despite his best attempt at dodging. A huge hole was left in his chest! Hundreds of sword flashes followed, all of them striking his chest wound.


    "Darn it." Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s face turned pale. Flesh and blood began to rapidly close up his chest''s hole like coiling ropes. Following that, fur began to grow to cover his wound.


    "Hahaha, Qin Yun, try another few Infinite Converging Swords if you are that capable. Show me how many times you can cast it." Patriarch Wolf Mountain grabbed his battle saber with both hands and turned more ferocious. His body had been cultivated to a state where its lifeforce was many times stronger than even Gongye Bing¡¯s. It allowed him to be ranked among the top few in the world. Qin Yun''s Infinite Converging Sword could only injure him. He needed about seven or eight more strikes to have a chance of killing him.


    "If this Qin Yun can cast it another three or four times, more than half my Fiendbody will be damaged. I will have to escape immediately," thought Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    His injuries were still manageable.


    However, it had been a long time he was so severely injured! It left Patriarch Wolf Mountain incensed.


    "Whew!"


    After injuring Patriarch Wolf Mountain, the Intrinsic Flying Sword flashed and returned to Mt. Blue Granny.


    "All of you have formidable means. I have learned much." Qin Yun put away his flying sword as he scanned the three great fiendish demons in midair.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin''s flying sword is indeed impressive. It is a joyous occasion to discover another Paramount realm in the world, another peer on the road to cultivation." Yellow Wind Daolord smiled with squinted eyes.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, you are at the Paramount realm but you restrained yourself from flaunting it. I''m impressed as well." Patriarch Wolf Mountain scoffed.


    "Let''s go!"


    Patriarch Crocdragon''s body flashed and transformed into a short and fat man. Immediately, he departed on a cloud.


    "Hmph." Patriarch Wolf Mountain grunted coldly before he departed on a cloud as well.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, if we have a chance, we should discuss the Dao briefly." Yellow Wind Daolord smiled with squinted eyes before flicking his whisk and leaving.


    Qin Yun watched the three leave.


    At their level, they knew that a fight to the death would be very, very difficult. It would only be possible to kill an opponent if they figured out a way to restrain them, to prevent them from escaping while the fight drained them of their Dharmic powers¡­ By draining their opponent''s lifeforce, they could enervate their opponent to death.


    But in fact, the higher the cultivation realm, the faster one''s Dharmic powers and lifeforce would recover.


    Restraining an existence at the Paramount realm for a month or two did not necessarily mean they would be enervated to death. Besides, everyone had friends. It was always possible that someone would appear to help them.


    "Nice one, Qin Yun. Your flying sword is capable of developing the Heavenly Cycles and makes for an impregnable defense." When Yellow Wind Daolord flew a distance away, his eyes were cold. "When he attacked, the combined forces of the two flying swords made even me feel threatened. That Infinite Converging Sword is even more impressive!"


    "I was injured but he wasn''t." A distance away, Patriarch Wolf Mountain ruminated. "As expected of a sword immortal that can destroy all Dharma with a single sword."


    "That Heavenly Cycles sword art sure is a pain," thought Patriarch Crocdragon.


    ¡­


    Only at the end of the battle did Qin Yun really attack.


    A total of twenty-one great fiendish demons participated in the battle! Among them, Temple Lord Ruyi and Valley Lord Windhark perished.


    After Qin Yun cast Infinite Converging Sword, all the great fiendish demons below the Paramount realm fled. None of them dared to stay!


    Qin Yun fought alone against three Paramount realm-level great fiendish demons.


    He was not injured at all but he left Patriarch Wolf Mountain quite injured.


    "I cannot be careless either," thought Qin Yun. "Patriarch Wolf Mountain and Patriarch Crocdragon both have powerful Fiendbodies. Even if they were injured, it was only lightly so. Their bodies can definitely withstand it. Their lifeforces are extremely powerful too. As for my physical body¡­ it''s a lot weaker than theirs. Even Yellow Wind Daolord, the weakest out of the three, him being a great fiendish demon makes his physical body a lot stronger than mine. It would only take one strike to obliterate this body of mine when facing an existence at the Paramount realm."


    "Therefore, I can''t afford to lose." Qin Yun understood this point.


    If others could not block the attacks, their bodies could resist it.


    If he could not block the attacks, it meant death! There was no way around this conundrum. The cultivation school of thought determined it.


    ******


    Qin Yun stood on Mt. Blue Granny and looked into the distance.


    There, a drunken elder looked over and said with a beaming smile. "Fellow Daoist Qin, congratulations. We humans have another Paramount realm, a Paramount realm sword immortal. Haha¡­ It''s not easy for us to kill even one great fiendish demon, but you have killed two in a blink of an eye."


    "It was truly unexpected," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Flying swords are great at killing. There''s no need to be humble. If you have time, come look for me in the northern Paulownia Valley City. I''ll treat you to some drinks," replied the drunken elder loudly.


    "If I have the time, I''ll definitely want to have a taste of Drunken Immortal''s alcohol," said Qin Yun loudly as well.


    Qin Yun held Drunken Immortal in high esteem.


    Before he broke through, there were only nine humans at the Paramount realm! The only person that was perennially stationed on the northern borders was Drunken Immortal.


    After learning that Qin Yun was in danger, Drunken Immortal had rushed over from the north despite Qin Yun having not requested for help. Indeed, he had rushed there to the best of his ability. Qin Yun naturally remembered this favor.


    "Haha¡­" Drunken Immortal laughed as he departed on a cloud.


    Drunken Immortal was also happy seeing humanity having more powerful cultivators.


    The stronger cultivators were, the weaker the fiendish demonic forces were. It would result in better days for the commoners. This very fight, where Qin Yun killed two great fiendish demons, influenced tens of millions of ordinary lives. Even the ones that didn''t die, like Nine Mountain Island Lord, would hold back a lot more. Nine Mountain Island Lord influenced many of the southern counties in the Jiang Prefecture so that translated to tens of millions of commoners.


    If he held back, the demons under him naturally had to hold back greatly as well.


    All of this was a result of the Jiang Prefecture having an additional Paramount realm sword immortal!


    "Uncle Qin." The young fish demoness looked at Qin Yun with wondrous eyes that sparkled.


    "I told you they would be gone in less than a day," said Qin Yun. "Alright, now that all these great fiendish demons are gone, continue observing the memorial for Scholar. Once the three days are up, we will head for Grand Dominance."


    "Alright." The young fish demoness nodded obediently.


    ¡­


    In Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace.


    Grand General Summon Thunder, General Hunt, and General Shrimp had returned. After all, Jia''an County was very close to Yellow Wyrm Lake.


    "Greetings Your Majesties!"


    Grand General Summon Thunder and company bowed respectfully.


    Flood Dragon King and his wife were sitting high on their thrones, overlooking them. Dragon Queen said immediately, "Quick, why was Sword Immortal Qin looking for me? Why didn''t you respond to my later messages?"


    "Quickly, tell us." Flood Dragon King urged as well.


    The duo already knew the results of the battle at Mt. Blue Granny. They knew that another Connate Paramount realm sword immortal had risen and were still trembling.


    Grand General Summon Thunder and company looked at the guards and maidservants around them.


    "All of you are dismissed." Dragon Queen ordered immediately.


    Instantly, the only ones left in the hall were Flood Dragon King, Dragon Queen, and the three generals.


    "Can you tell us now?" Dragon Queen was somewhat anxious.


    "Your Majesties," said Grand General Summon Thunder politely. "We were under orders to kill a young fish demoness but she was saved by Sword Immortal Qin! Sword Immortal Qin and that demoness''s adopted father, Fu Qing, had deep ties. Fu Qing is dead! Sword Immortal Qin and the demoness were on Mt. Blue Granny to observe the mourning rituals for Fu Qing."


    "Observing the mourning rituals?" Flood Dragon King was alarmed. The color drained from Dragon Queen''s face.


    A sword immortal at the Paramount realm was actually observing the funeral rituals.


    They realized that Qin Yun and the person named Fu Qing had an extraordinary relationship.


    "Sword Immortal Qin wanted us to pass this message," said Grand General Summon Thunder respectfully. "He said that he is now involved in the matter regarding the young fish demoness. He wants His Majesty to answer to him. If no appropriate answer is given, he would come to Flood Dragon Palace himself."


    Dragon Queen''s face remained pale.


    Flood Dragon King was livid. His dragon claws crushed the armrest to smithereens as they crumbled to the crystalline ground, emitting a clear clonk that gave Dragon Queen a fright.


    "Isn''t she just a lesser demon?" Dragon Queen was somewhat panicking.


    ¡­


    Jiang Prefecture, Cloud Prefecture. On Nine Mountain Island.


    In the deep sanctums of the island.


    "What do I do?"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord sat cross-legged. The eyes under his blood-colored brows were filled with anxiousness. "There are many array formations protecting me as I hide on the island. Qin Yun can''t kill me now, but what about in the future?"


    "My true body is a mountain. It gives me great strength but it also shackles me." Nine Mountain Island Lord said worriedly. "Do I really have to free myself of these shackles¡­"


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Yi Xiao was sitting in front of a long narrow table. A projection was floating in midair in front of her. A woman was talking to her.


    "Sister, I beg you. Only Brother-in-law can help me," pleaded the woman.


    "Sister You, I already told you very clearly. All I can do is pass your request. As for whether Brother Yun agrees, that''s up to him. I don''t have any say in the matter, " said Yi Xiao.


    With that, the transmission was cut.


    Yi Xiao shook her head gently. "All sorts of matters are brought to us now that the news of Brother Yun being a Paramount realm sword immortal has spread."


    There was no other way about it.


    The world had a total of ten Paramount realm humans, including Qin Yun. Two of them were itinerant cultivators, two were from the imperial government, and three were from the top cultivation sects. The Buddhist sacred land Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery had one. The Primordial Chaos Sect had one. The Divine Firmament Chapter had one. But quite embarrassingly, the most ancient Daoist sacred land, Numinous Treasure Mountain, lacked an entity at the Paramount realm.


    There were too few people at the Paramount realm. Even Human Emperor would not easily mobilize an existence at the Paramount realm.


    The Divine Firmament Chapter had one but he was dedicated to stepping into the Dao. Only by entering the Dao would one be able to condense an Essence Soul to become an immortal.


    Therefore, to request the help of a Paramount realm person was extremely difficult.


    "The Yi family, the Divine Firmament Chapter, and even my friends are coming to me for help." Yi Xiao sighed lightly. "I don¡¯t even know when I became regarded as someone so important."


    In the Yi family, she was a junior.


    In the Divine Firmament Chapter, she was only a Connate False Core junior with potential. So what if she became a Golden Core? As a Daoist sacred land, the Divine Firmament Chapter might not have had the seventy or eighty Golden Core cultivators the imperial government had, but it had more than twenty! It was similar to the number of great fiendish demons on Cloudfiend Mountain.


    "Well, Brother Yun''s brother has passed away and he''s observing the mourning rituals. He will take another two days before he returns. He can¡¯t make a decision until he returns, so it¡¯s best to wait until then," Yi Xiao decided.


    As the wife of a Paramount realm sword immortal, Yi Xiao''s status was elevated as well.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was on Mt. Blue Granny, where he was isolated from the matters of the outside world. All he did was quietly accompany his good friend, Scholar.


    In a blink of an eye, three days passed.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Fu Sizhuo kowtowed heavily to the ground as she looked up at the tombstone. "Father, I will come to visit you often. I will listen to you and cultivate properly. Also, I will have children in the future and give them the Fu surname. You will have lots of grandchildren in the future."


    Qin Yun was watching silently but could not help but laugh when he heard her say that.


    "In¡­ In the future, I will have children with humans." Fu Sizhuo looked at Qin Yun and said immediately, "As long as they do not awaken their demonic bloodline, they would look human as well."


    "Okay, okay. That''s nice of you," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Let''s go. Follow me to Grand Dominance. As for your situation with Yellow Wyrm Lake, I''ll investigate the matter thoroughly. For them to put this much effort to kill a young demoness like you, I believe there is some secret behind it."


    "I''ll leave everything to you, Uncle Qin," said the fish demoness immediately.


    "Let''s go."


    Qin Yun immediately brought her away using Sword Kinesis Flight. The flying sword condensed into a massive sword beam that enveloped the two of them as they rapidly headed straight for Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance.

 197 Guests from all over

    Chapter 197: Guests from all over


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Deep in the mountains, a middle-aged man was hiding in a cave wearing tattered clothes.


    "Why is this happening? All of them are here to capture me. Who did I, Wu Jun, offend? Even if I did take the Qin family''s array formation treasure out of greed, it should be nothing to a family as large as the Qin family. They shouldn''t have sent so many people to pursue me," wondered the middle-aged man, Wu Jun. Back when Qin Yun was trapped in the immortal abode for a prolonged period of time, the cultivators that had pledged allegiance to Qin Manor panicked, resulting in three cultivators leaving. One of them was Wu Jun.


    The rest had left without a fuss but Wu Jun took some treasures with him.


    Wu Jun believed that if he fled with the treasure out of the Jiang Prefecture, the Qin family would not exert the amount of effort it would take to pursue him.


    "Wu Jun."


    In midair, a Daoist riding a cloud looked at the cave. "Come on out. I have already discovered you."


    Wu Jun''s body jolted. He carefully peered out of the cave and saw a Daoist smiling at him.


    "Senior Liu." Wu Jun hurriedly walked out and carefully put on a reverential stance. "Might I know what I did to offend Senior Liu? Why would you be so troubled as to come capture me personally?"


    "Cut the nonsense." The Daoist threw a rope in midair. It was a rope Dharma treasure that flew over and bound Wu Jun.


    "Spare me!" Wu Jun pleaded immediately.


    Phew.


    The rope pulled him up onto the cloud. The Daoist scoffed as he looked at the pleading Wu Jun before heading south on the cloud.


    "Senior Liu, might you tell me why you are capturing me?" Wu Jun was still unsure of the reason.


    "You will know in a while." The Daoist could not be bothered to explain.


    After two hours of flight, the Daoist steered the cloud down over an expansive manor.


    "The Wang family?" Wu Jun''s expression changed drastically. "The Lu Prefecture''s Wang family? Why¡­ why would such a large family clan want to capture me?"


    The Lu Prefecture''s Wang family was one of the top family clans in the entire Lu Prefecture. That was because the Wang family''s patriarch was a Connate Golden Core expert! There might be plenty of Connate Golden Core experts in the Daoist or Buddhist sacred lands but each prefecture only had a small few.


    Soon.


    "Family Head, Wu Jun has been captured." Daoist Liu was rather pleased.


    "Good, well done. Quickly lead him to meet Patriarch with me." The Wang family''s head was excited as well.


    Moments later¡ª


    The incumbent patriarch of the Wang family was Wang Qingzhi. Despite being more than two hundred years old, he looked middle-aged. He sat cross-legged on a mat and watched as the Wang family''s head brought Daoist Liu and the captured Wu Jun to him.


    "Patriarch, Wu Jun is here," The Wang family head said respectfully.


    "Haha." Daoist Wang Qingzhi beamed. "Alright, this will be the perfect gift to congratulate Daoist Qin for his attainment of the Paramount realm. More suitable than any treasure."


    "Daoist Qin?" Wu Jun was somewhat dumbfounded.


    "I''ll be making a trip to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance for a few days. Quite a number of my old friends will probably be there." Wang Qingzhi beckoned with his hand as the rope on Wu Jun''s body flew over. However, Wu Jun remained motionless.


    Following that, Wang Qingzhi stepped out the door and rode a cloud, bringing Wu Jun with him to the Jiang Prefecture.


    On the cloud, Wu Jun lay there motionless. However, he asked immediately, "Is fellow Daoist Qin Young Master Qin?"


    "You master-betraying scum. How dare you speak fellow Daoist Qin''s name?" Wang Qingzhi shook his head.


    "He got a Golden Core expert to capture me over an array formation?" Wu Jun widened his eyes. Was Qin Yun that vengeful towards his trivial crime?


    "Daoist Qin wouldn''t think that much of you. I was the one who wanted you captured as a gift for Daoist Qin." Wang Qingzhi shook his head. "You were truly short-sighted. Daoist Qin attained the Paramount realm at such a young age and there''s chance of him stepping into the Dao in the future. Once he does so¡­ he might be invincible for centuries. You had entered the Qin family early but you betrayed it. You really didn''t know how to grasp an opportunity."


    A sword immortal that stepped into the Dao had a strength that could match immortals or fiendcelestials.


    Of course, the sword immortals of the past that stepped into the Dao differed in strength too. But even so, immortals and fiendcelestials did not dare meddle in mortal matters. Although sword immortals were unable to condense an Essence Soul, once they stepped into the Dao, they would be very adept at killing. And once their Intrinsic Flying Swords reached first-grade, they would have strength equivalent to that of a Numinous treasure. It was not difficult for them to be invincible.


    Just like how Elder Sword was invincible for centuries!


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor was bustling more than usual.


    Cultivators from all over the world visited to congratulate Qin Yun''s attainment of the Paramount realm.


    Even the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands sent Connate Golden Core cultivators to gift Qin Yun congratulatory gifts. After all, there were only ten humans at the Paramount realm in the world! Furthermore, he was the one with most astounding potential. Although everyone knew that sword immortals had a five-hundred-year lifespan and that there were no Dharmic formulations that allowed them to condense an Essence Soul to become immortal, it was still terrifying for them to remain invincible for several centuries.


    "Fellow Daoist Wang." Qin Yun personally welcomed him.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, I heard that this master-betraying scum came to my Lu Prefecture. I got someone to capture him and bring him here. He''s all yours," Wang Qingzhi said with a smile.


    Qin Yun shot a glance at the kneeling Wu Jun, who was trembling. He had a pleaful look all over his face. Qin Yun looked at a guard beside him. "Take him away."


    The guard immediately grabbed Wu Jun and led him away.


    "Daoist Wang, thank you," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Let''s go. There are many fellow Daoists in the eastern garden."


    "Great." Wang Qingzhi was delighted. In fact, it was rare for so many Daoists to gather together when they reached a certain level of cultivation.


    The Qin Manor''s eastern garden held more than ten Connate Golden Core cultivators. They came from all over the world to congratulate Qin Yun.


    Since they treated him with respect, Qin Yun naturally returned the favor.


    Some of these Connate Golden Core experts came from the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands. They helmed high positions! Some were even the pillars of support for a top cultivation sect and had great influence.


    ¡­


    In the eastern garden.


    The cultivators were gathered in small groups. They drank and discussed the Dao. It was very casual and free.


    The two guests with the highest standing were at the Paramount realm.


    One of them was the strongest sword immortal, Cui Lianfeng from Sword Tower. As the only other Paramount realm sword immortal out of the ten Paramount realms, Cui Lianfeng had personally come to visit Qin Yun. He also hoped that they would learn from each other.


    The other was Philo-Marquis who had brought his son along! Philo-Marquis similarly enjoyed a high status in the imperial government.


    "What was the outcome of your sparring?" asked Philo-Marquis jokingly as he sat with Cui Lianfeng and Qin Yun.


    "Brother Cui''s sword arts are indeed powerful. His nine killer moves were tough for me to defend against," said Qin Yun immediately. Among his killer moves, other than Samsara, which was not to be used wantonly, there was only Bright Moon Over River and Dual Flight. Of course, Qin Yun was now creating a new move that was in its nascent stages.


    As for Cui Lianfeng, other than Infinite Converging Sword, he had eight other killer moves.


    "Don''t poke fun at me," said Cui Lianfeng with a smile. "Moves are not valued by their quantity but by their quality. All those sword moves of mine lost their teeth the moment they touched our young friend''s Cyclic Sword Flash."


    Qin Yun smiled as well. He was right. Although it was said that he only had three killer moves, strictly speaking, Cyclic Sword Flash was his strongest move. Defense was at the core of his Paramount realm! This move was perfect and powerful when used to defend. It also drained very little Dharmic power.


    "If my Cyclic Sword Flash is broken, my life would be in danger," said Qin Yun.


    "If one layer is broken, can''t you just produce another layer?" Cui Lianfeng said. "Like me, my defensive move is the Seven Layered Ridges and Peaks. If it lacks strength, I make up for it with quantity. Speaking of which, Philo-Marquis, I still envy your Godfiend lineage. Your bodies are extremely powerful. You would be fine even if you took a few hits from my flying sword."


    "Why don''t you try having a few holes stabbed into your body? Do you think it doesn''t hurt?" Philo-Marquis curled his mouth as he held his wine cup.


    The trio chatted and suddenly looked towards the east.


    Clouds blotted out the sky in the east and began to spread. A strange wind began to blow.


    "This aura." Philo-Marquis watched from afar. "I believe the East Sea''s Dragon race is here."


    "As expected of the leader of the Four Seas'' Dragon race," praised Cui Lianfeng as well.


    The Four Seas'' Dragon race was extremely powerful. Humans controlled the lands while the dragons controlled the Four Seas!


    And among the Four Seas, the East Sea Dragon race reigned supreme.


    Legends said that the Dragon race''s origin stemmed from the East Sea!


    "Our friend Qin Yun lives in Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance which is close to the East Sea. Perhaps, he might go to the East Sea to slay fiends. Of course the East Sea Dragon race would want to pay a visit and give congratulatory gifts," said Cui Lianfeng with a smile.


    "The East Sea dragons are here. Please excuse me." Qin Yun got up.


    ¡­


    And flying above the clouds that covered half the horizon, four dragons were flying. Behind them were many Water race servants.


    The four dragons flying at the head of the party had a magnificent bearing. Three of them were at the Connate Golden Core realm, and the only woman was at the Connate True Core realm.


    "Brother, this Qin Yun sure is awesome. He reached the Paramount realm at age twenty-seven. If it were us dragons, we would still be babies at twenty-seven, right?" The woman was a little lively.


    Leading the convoy was the East Sea''s Dragon race''s Crown Prince, Ao Yong. He said with a smile, "Humans are naturally different from us dragons. Their lifespans are much shorter than ours. But even among humans, this Sword Immortal Qin is very young. It''s really impressive. If not, Father would not have sent me here."

 198 Yi Xiaos Birth Matters

    Chapter 198: Yi Xiao''s Birth Matters


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Little Seventh." A man from the dragon race said. "It''s fine if you fool around in the palace but today, we are here to deliver our congratulations. You have to be on your best behavior."


    "Don''t worry. Father has already exhorted me," said the woman immediately.


    "This Qin Yun lives near the East Sea. In the future, there might be some interaction between us. His present strength is still only decent but if he truly steps into the Dao and grasps Sword Dao¡­ A sword immortal that does so would be an entity even our East Sea Dragon Palace would somewhat fear." A red-haired man shook his head with a sigh. "Therefore, our East Sea Dragon Palace''s Crown Prince came personally to express our congratulations. It''s truly an honor for Qin Yun."


    Ao Yong nodded and said with a smile, "Based on our intelligence, this Qin Yun is rather easy going. Alright, let''s go down."


    Phew.


    The cloud descended.


    Mist immediately emanated from Qin Manor''s main entrance. Ao Yong and the other dragons appeared at the entrance with their subordinates. Although the subordinates took human form, they still had some characteristics of Water demons. They held gifts of all kinds that exuded treasure auras.


    "All of you came from quite a ways away. Please come in," Qin Yun invited them in personally.


    "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin, I''m Ao Yong from the East Sea," said Ao Yong smilingly with cupped fists. Behind him, three members of the Dragon race were smiling. Although they were taking on a human appearance, they did not hide the dragon horns on their heads. They naturally had an air of nobility about them. Dragons were indeed extraordinary. As long as they matured, they could naturally reach the Connate Golden Core realm.


    Dragons and phoenixes were divine or auspicious beasts.


    Phoenixes were rarely seen but dragons were prevalent in the Four Seas where they ruled.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, these are my two uncles, Ao Meng and Ao Zhan. This is my seventh sister, Ao Xing," introduced Ao Yong.


    "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin."


    The three dragons cupped their hands in greeting. The seventh princess Ao Xing''s eyes lit up when she saw Qin Yun. Dragons were arrogant to begin with. They were usually not impressed by ordinary cultivators but the East Sea Dragon race had an extremely good impression of Qin Yun. The East Sea Dragon King had even personally directed them to send their congratulations.


    "These are gifts Father personally arranged for. They are nothing special. Sword Immortal Qin, congratulations on attaining the Paramount realm," said Ao Yong. He handed a list of the gifts over. Chu Yuan, who stood beside Qin Yun, accepted it.


    "Give the Dragon King my thanks," said Qin Yun immediately. Following that, he led the East Sea dragons into the crowd.


    ¡­


    Night fell.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were walking along the mirror lake.


    "The East Sea dragons came today too?" asked Yi Xiao. "Their gifts must be quite extraordinary."


    "They did give many kinds of treasures. Their gift can be considered the best among all the guests," said Qin Yun. The gifts from the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands could not compare with those of the East Sea dragons.


    "The East Sea dragons are the leaders of the Four Seas'' dragons. Since time immemorial, they have been in charge of the Four Seas. They naturally have accumulated a lot of treasures," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Now that our family has so many kinds of treasures, is it time for us to build a treasure repository?"


    "Yea, it''s about time." Qin Yun nodded and sighed. "Ever since the news of me attaining the Paramount realm was made public, all sorts of things began happening. The number of cultivators who want to join my Qin Manor is increasing and in just a few days, there are already about eight Connate realm cultivators who wish to join the Qin family as distinguished mercenaries."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "The path of cultivation isn''t simple. Dharmic formulations, money, companionship, and land. Itinerant cultivators firstly lack good Dharmic formulations and secondly, they lack treasures. If they offended some powerful enemy, they would live in fear every day. If they were to pledge allegiance to our Qin family, no one would dare to continue targeting them. Our Qin family has cultivation formulations and treasures¡­ it''s not much different from a top cultivation sect."


    Qin Yun nodded. "We still have to investigate their backgrounds thoroughly. We definitely cannot accept those that have done evil."


    When it came to cultivation manuals¡­


    Back when Qin Yun killed Valley Lord Windhark and Temple Lord Ruyi, he found that their treasures were nothing much to speak of. The most valuable treasure was a third-grade Dharma treasure. However, there were quite a number of manuals. Other than the demonic manuals, there were also Daoist and Buddhist manuals. After all, in the bouts between humans and fiendish demons, many manuals had been taken by the other side. For example, Yellow Wind Daolord had obtained a Daoist Dharmic formulation, Yellow Wind True Sutra.


    Even the Daoist sacred land Scenic Mountain Sect had once been overrun by fiendish demons.


    There were indeed Daoist and Buddhist manuals that ended up in the hands of fiendish demons but they demanded a high cultivation realm! What demons favored the most were Dharmic formulations from the Godfiend lineage.


    As for Qin Yun, he possessed many kinds of manuals. They mainly came from Elder Sword, who had once stormed several sects in search of manuals. All of that was done to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for sword immortals. He had even snatched the Essence Soul Dharmic formulations from other schools of thought to use as a reference!


    Therefore, Qin Yun actually had Daoist Dharmic formulations that could allow for cultivators to condense an Essence Soul to become immortal!


    This heritage could match that of some top cultivation sets that had shorter histories.


    "Those that engage in lawlessness and have criminal records are not to be accepted." Yi Xiao nodded. "Don''t worry. I will check their backgrounds very carefully."


    "These past few days must have been hard for you, my wife." Qin Yun bowed with his hands folded in front of him. As the Qin family had few powerful cultivators, he had to entertain the distinguished guests. He left Yi Xiao to do all sorts of miscellaneous work.


    "These past few days must have been hard on you, with all the entertaining of the distinguished guests, my husband." Yi Xiao bowed with her hands folded in front of her as well.


    "Second Young Master! Second Young Master!" A shout sounded from afar.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were startled as they immediately stood up straight. The young couple did not wish for others to see them teasing each other affectionately.


    Qin Yun turned to look over. From afar, Ah Gui ran over and shouted immediately," Second Young Master."


    "Ah Gui, what''s the matter?" asked Qin Yun.


    "The crown prince of the East Sea''s Dragon Palace seeks an audience with you," answered Ah Gui immediately.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was perplexed. "Alright, I''ll be right there."


    Yi Xiao was astonished as well. "Other than sending their congratulations, does the East Sea''s Dragon Palace have another important matter to address?"


    "I''ll take a look," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright, go on." Yi Xiao nodded.


    ¡­


    At a pavilion, Qin Yun and the crown prince, Ao Yong sat down. Qin Yun poured tea for him personally.


    "Crown Prince, was the food to your liking?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Haha, it was superb! I have occasionally taken human form to eat the delicacies of the human world," said Ao Yong with a laugh. "I have also tried Grand Dominance''s delicacies about two or three times. But they were inferior to what I ate at Qin Manor."


    "I''m from Grand Dominance so I naturally hired the best chefs of Grand Dominance." Qin Yun drank a cup of tea and said, "Crown Prince, might I know why you have been looking for me?"


    Ao Yong smiled. "There is a matter that is considered highly confidential among the Dragon race. It was not to be divulged but this matter implicates Madam Qin. I feel that there is a need to tell you, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    It implicated his wife?


    "Madam Qin, or Yi Xiao, is a member of the Yi family," said Ao Yong. "Not long after she was born, her mother left her, is that right?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    Ao Yong nodded. "This is actually quite a long story. It caused some conflict between the West Sea''s Dragon race and Patriarch Yi back then."


    Qin Yun listened carefully.


    "The West Sea''s Dragon race has a dragon lady by the name Ao Xue. One day, she took human form and went on land. She happened to acquaint herself with a human male named Yi Caishi," said Ao Yong. Qin Yun understood immediately.


    Ao Yong nodded. "I believe you have already guessed it. This Ao Xue is Yi Xiao''s mother! After Ao Xue and Yi Caishi acquainted themselves with each other, they quickly fell in love and vowed to be together forever. They even had a child! Later, this was discovered by the West Sea Dragon Palace, infuriating it tremendously! Ao Xue is a pure-blooded member of our Dragon race. We are forbidden from marrying other races."


    "Those of impure dragon blood are not worth mentioning. They are not recognized and are never given the surname of Ao," explained Ao Yong. "As such, a pure-blood dragon lady will always marry within the Dragon race of the Four Seas! Even sons of dragons like myself may gallivant outside but eventually, my marriage partner will be a dragon lady."


    "Ao Xue dared to violate the Dragon race''s rules and bear a child with a human. When the West Sea Dragon Palace discovered this, they naturally captured her. The final punishment was to imprison her for five hundred years," said Ao Yong. "Back then, the West Sea''s Dragon race even wanted to take away the baby Yi Xiao as she had a partial dragon bloodline. However, Patriarch Yi intervened. Since Yi Xiao only has a partial dragon bloodline, the West Sea Dragon Palace gave up."


    Ao Yong continued, "This matter is dirty linen for both the Yi family and the West Sea Dragon race. It is naturally kept secret. Even Yi Xiao''s father, Yi Caishi, doesn''t know that his wife was a dragon lady."


    Qin Yun was struck by enlightenment.


    It was no wonder there had been no news from Yi Xiao''s mother.


    "We dragons are few in number, to begin with. If a dragon lady were to marry outside of the family, our Dragon race might be pushed closer to the brink of extinction," said Ao Yong with a shake of his head. As for flood dragons and other species with thinner bloodlines, they are not recognized by the true Dragon race.


    "Where is Yi Xiao''s mother imprisoned?" asked Qin Yun.


    "That I do not know." Ao Yong shook his head. "I''m only the crown prince of the East Sea Dragon Palace. I chanced upon this secret. And besides, it''s dirty linen for the West Sea Dragon race. It''s best if fewer people know of it."


    "Haha, it''s only because it''s related to Madam Qin that I told you," said Ao Yong with a laugh. "Alright, it''s gotten quite late. I won''t disturb your rest any further, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Thank you for telling me, Crown Prince. Had you not, I might have never known. I will remember this favor." Qin Yun got up immediately.


    Ao Yong chuckled and turned to leave.


    The goal of this trip was to build a relationship by providing the information.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun walked back alone with his brows knitted.


    With Princess Martial Maple''s selfish personality, there was no doubt she would investigate the identity of Yi Caishi''s wife; yet, her investigation was fruitless. At their present strength, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao had also not heard any news regarding her. Even a thousand-year-old family like the Yi family did not appear to know the identity of Yi Caishi''s wife.


    Back then, Qin Yun was somewhat baffled. And now the truth shocked him.


    "Dragon lady, Ao Xue? How heartless is it to imprison her for five centuries?" thought Qin Yun.


    Five hundred years was a very long time for her to be imprisoned in one place.


    Without knowing it, Qin Yun had returned to the yard at his residence.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao walked out of the house and asked with a smile. "Why was the East Sea''s Crown Prince looking for you for? And why was he was so mysterious about it."

 199 Bai Junyues Reques

    Chapter 199: Bai Junyue''s Request


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and he made up his mind.


    After all, it was her birth mother. Yi Xiao had always felt hatred and disgruntlement towards her mother, despising her for abandoning her family! If Yi Xiao knew that her mother had actually not abandoned her, but that she had been forcibly separated from her by the West Sea Dragon race, Yi Xiao might no longer feel any hatred for her mother. Then again, if she knew that her mother had once fallen in love with her father and was forcibly captured and imprisoned in suffering for five hundred years, Yi Xiao was unlikely to take the news quietly and would seek to save her mother.


    "I should not tell Xiaoxiao of the news for the time being," thought Qin Yun. "The West Sea Dragon race is powerful, in no way inferior to the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands. Even I do not have the confidence to try saving Xiaoxiao''s mother."


    "I should investigate the matter in secret. I''ll find out where Xiaoxiao''s mother is imprisoned and ascertain if there''s any hope of rescuing her. It wouldn''t be too late to tell Xiaoxiao once I''m almost done with my investigations." Qin Yun pondered secretly.


    Revealing the matter now would not help in rescuing Xiaoxiao''s mother at all. Instead, it would only vex Xiaoxiao.


    After all, how could a daughter feel at ease knowing her mother was suffering in a prison?


    "I have to quickly make a trip to the West Sea," thought Qin Yun.


    "What are you thinking about?" Yi Xiao walked over.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "Nothing much. Crown Prince came looking for me to offer me his friendship! He even said that if there are any treasures I require from the East Sea, I should directly look for him."


    "I see." Yi Xiao nodded. "Brother Yun, now that you are at the Paramount realm, the East Sea Dragon race would not want to make an enemy of you even though it''s powerful. After all, immortals and fiendcelestials cannot interfere with mortal matters. Besides, they probably believe that you will be able to step into the Dao in the future! It''s why they sent the crown prince here."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Stepping into the Dao¡­


    Although the path of cultivation was difficult, he had practiced the way of the sword from a young age. He attained the state of being one with the sword early on and had suffered endless setbacks. He roamed the world for more than five years and walked the tightrope of death. In the northern borderlands, he risked his life on the battlefields. His life depended greatly on his sword, allowing him to grasp sword intent through Expertise Nearing Dao. After he attained Heaven Man Unity, Qin Yun felt that his cultivation had become a lot simpler.


    After all, he was unable to see the big picture in his early days. After he attained Heaven Man Unity, he could sense the Heavenly Dao and so he naturally improved quickly.


    "After the Paramount realm is stepping into the Dao!"


    "It''s said that stepping into the Dao is very difficult. However, I have reached the Paramount realm at the age of twenty-seven. Even if it takes me thirty or fifty years¡­ I refuse to believe I that won''t be able to step into the Dao." Qin Yun had been confident of his cultivation all this while.


    He would improve a little every day.


    With time, there would come a day when a qualitative change would happen.


    "By the way, Xiaoxiao, the Yi family made a request for help recently," asked Qin Yun. "It was something about lost family members in the West Sea."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded. "The Divine Firmament Chapter had sent a Connate Golden Core expert to investigate the matter but failed to find anything. Therefore, Sister You came to plead with me. Brother Yun, you are a Paramount realm sword immortal, so you will have a higher chance of success than typical Connate Golden Core experts if you investigate the matter. Although the Divine Firmament Chapter has an existence at the Paramount realm, he has been in constant seclusion in a bid to step into the Dao. Patriarch has not been able to deploy him."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    At the Paramount realm, one did not necessarily mind immortals or fiendcelestials. They respected them as seniors but only honored their requests at times. If they chose not to, the immortals and fiendcelestials would not act against them.


    Especially those at the Paramount realm who were over three or four hundred years old; as their days were numbered, they would make use of their time in a bid to step into the Dao. This was because once they did so, they could condense their Essence Soul to become immortal! That ensured eternal youth!


    As for the sword immortal lineage, there were no Dharmic formulations that allowed them to condense an Essence Soul to become immortal despite them being extremely powerful.


    "However, there have been many people coming to seek your help. Two members of the Yi family vanished in the West Sea more than half a year ago. It won''t be an easy matter to investigate," said Yi Xiao. "Brother Yun, do you plan on going?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "It''s a member of the Yi family after all. I''ll make the trip."


    "I know it''s because of me," said Yi Xiao softly.


    "I''ll just be traveling around," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I can''t just cloister myself at home in cultivation, can I?"


    ¡­


    The Yi family was in the Kunlun Prefecture that neighbored the West Sea.


    As for the Daoist sacred land, Numinous Treasure Mountain, it was also situated in the Kunlun Prefecture. The oldest family clan, the Bai family, was similarly close to the West Sea.


    Just like how the cultivators in the Jiangnan area interacted mostly with the East Sea, areas like the Kunlun Prefecture and the Snow Prefecture had more interactions with the West Sea.


    "Qin Yun."


    In one compound of the Bai family, an entire manor was quiet and desolate. All the servants were female, with not a single man in the manor.


    "Will he help?" Bai Junyue looked very distant while dressed in white. She looked hesitantly at the bronze mirror in front of her.


    After quite some hesitation, Bai Junyue waved her hand.


    Soon, a youth''s figure appeared in the bronze mirror. It was none other than Qin Yun.


    "Fairy Bai?" greeted Qin Yun with a smile. "Is there a reason why you are suddenly looking for me?"


    "Congratulations on attaining the Paramount realm. Although my Numinous Treasure Mountain is a Daoist sacred land, our current generation doesn''t have anyone at the Paramount realm." Bai Junyue tried her best to smile. She did not like to smile and by deliberately doing it, it looked a little forced.


    "It was only by chance. The Numinous Treasure Mountain is the origin of the Daoist movement. It was the place where the Dao Ancestor taught the Dao. It''s nothing if a particular generation lacks a Paramount realm," said Qin Yun.


    Indeed.


    The Divine Firmament Chapter, Primordial Chaos Sect, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, and the imperial government had all gone from weak to strong throughout the ages.


    Only Numinous Treasure Mountain was an exception! After the Dao Ancestor taught the Dao, many disciples naturally gathered to form the sect, Numinous Treasure Mountain. The Dao Ancestor had also bestowed numerous treasures upon them. Numinous Treasure Mountain was strong from the very beginning. Even when the Godfiends ruled the world, Numinous Treasure Mountain was always the hegemon of their territory. Up to this day, it had never been weak. Numinous Treasure Mountain would even release heritages frequently.


    Many of the top cultivation sects had a heritage that was deliberately handed to them by Numinous Treasure Mountain.


    "Yea," Bai Junyue maintained her faint smile. "Qin Yun, I have something to request of you. I know my request is a little overboard."


    "Please tell me," said Qin Yun.


    Bai Junyue was clearly a little nervous. "My brother, Bai Junchen, had gone to the West Sea a hundred odd years ago. He never returned and even his transmission mark dissipated. However, his corpse has never been found. I would like to request you to investigate the matter. I once came to the conclusion that my brother might have been killed by a great fiendish demon of the West Sea, Curmudgeon Blacktide. Curmudgeon Blacktide has extraordinary strength. When deep in the sea, his strength is nearly at the Paramount realm. I can only ask you for help. Please investigate this matter for me. Please confirm if¡­ my brother really died at that Curmudgeon Blacktide''s hand."


    "Curmudgeon Blacktide?" Qin Yun knitted his brows.


    This fiendish demon was exceedingly powerful and he was closing in on the Paramount realm. In the sea, Qin Yun''s strength would be reduced by thirty percent. It was truly something he was not equipped to deal with.


    When Bai Junyue saw Qin Yun frown, she could not help but feel her heart jolt. "I know that my request is a little overboard. However, I have no one else I can turn to. I do not have any other treasures. I am willing to offer a third-grade Dharma treasure, Cold Moon Flower, to get your help."


    "Cold Moon Flower is the most precious Dharma treasure you have, isn''t it? I can''t take something that precious from you," said Qin Yun with a smile. Bai Junyue had used the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle back when she entered the immortal abode but it was only a temporary loan. The Bai family took it back the moment she was out of the immortal abode. Typical Golden Core cultivators mostly used third-grade Dharma treasures. Few had access to second-grade Dharma treasures.


    In fact, quite a number of immortals and fiendcelestials only used first-grade Dharma treasures.


    Fairy Bai''s intrinsic Dharma treasure had reached the fourth-grade and its strength was greater than a third-grade Dharma treasure. But in terms of pure value, the Cold Moon Flower was indeed Bai Junyue''s most valuable Dharma treasure.


    "Fairy Bai, you helped me in the immortal abode back then. There''s no need for me to take your treasures," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Leave the matter of finding Curmudgeon Blacktide in the West Sea to me."


    Bai Junyue was taken aback.


    Did he just agree?


    Qin Yun agreed so readily?


    "However, Curmudgeon Blacktide has extraordinary strength. I probably won''t be able to kill him," said Qin Yun.


    "There''s no need," said Bai Junyue immediately. "I just want to know if my brother really died under his hand."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Alright, don''t worry. I''ll be going to the West Sea in the near future."


    "Qin Yun, thank you." Bai Junyue was very grateful. "In fact, back at the immortal abode, I didn''t help you that much."


    "Back then, if you had joined forces with Ji Lie, I would probably have had to flee early on," said Qin Yun with a smile. At the time, he had yet to consume the Golden Core Outer Pill. It was already tough for him to withstand Ji Lie. If Bai Junyue had joined forces with Ji Lie, he would really have had to flee with Yi Xiao and the rest."


    "Alright. This is more detailed information regarding my brother." Bai Junyue immediately transmitted the information through the messaging treasure.


    "I will message you when I finish the investigation," said Qin Yun.


    After they were done with their conversation, their transmission was cut.


    Bai Junyue took a deep breath.


    All these years, she had been trying to investigate the matter. However, Curmudgeon Blacktide was a force to be reckoned with in the West Sea. She was out of options.


    "Qin Yun, thank you." Bai Junyue was sincerely grateful.


    "Brother¡­ I believe you must be alive. I can sense you. You are living in a certain corner of this world." Bai Junyue looked at her reflection in the bronze mirror as she murmured.


    ¡­


    Qin family.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were chatting in bed, nestling with each other.


    "I''ve long heard of Fairy Bai''s brother too," said Yi Xiao. "Fairy Bai nearly went crazy looking for him. To be honest, I understand her pain very well. If you disappeared, I will probably go crazy too."


    Qin Yun extended his hand to hug Yi Xiao and said with a smile," Don''t worry. It won''t happen. We will be together forever."


    In his mind, Qin Yun was already planning his trip to the West Sea. The matter regarding Yi Xiao''s mother was naturally at the top of his priorities.

 200 Yellow Wyrm, Black Dragon Palace

    Chapter 200: Yellow Wyrm, Black Dragon Palace


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Several days later.


    The Connate Golden Core cultivators that came to congratulate Qin Yun gradually departed. He began to have more time on his hands. With that, he gradually put the finishing touches on his fourth killer move.


    "Second Young Master," shouted Ah Gui from afar.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun strode across the mirror lake leisurely and came to the bank. "Ah Gui, what''s the matter?"


    "Second Young Master, someone who calls himself Yellow Wyrm wishes to seek an audience with you. He has even brought lots of gifts," said Ah Gui immediately. "The gifts are very substantial and Brother Chu Yuan who received the gifts said the quality was comparable to the congratulatory gifts from the imperial government. This is the list of gifts."


    "Yellow Wyrm?" Qin Yun received a scroll and unfurled it to take a look.


    They were indeed substantial!


    Ordinary gifts were sufficient for congratulatory gifts. The East Sea Dragon Palace had given a lot because it was wealthy. As for the Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King, the value of the gifts he gave matched that of two or three fourth-grade Dharma treasures. Anyone would consider it very substantial. Most Connate Golden Core cultivators only had one or two third-grade Dharma treasures after all.


    "This yellow flood dragon does know I''m angry," thought Qin Yun.


    "Let him in," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Ah Gui immediately retreated.


    Soon.


    A middle-aged man dressed in plain clothes came in. When he saw Qin Yun, he immediately transformed, with his head becoming a flood dragon''s head. He exuded a clearly different aura. He immediately cupped his hands in front of him and bowed. "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin, I am Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King. I am really ashamed coming to meet you like this."


    As for Ah Gui, who had escorted the middle-aged man in, his eyes went wide when he saw the ordinary man transform his head into a flood dragon''s head. He was nearly scared out of his wits.


    He hurriedly retreated and muttered secretly, "Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon King? I wonder which flood dragon is it that wants to meet young master. Young Master sure is awesome. Even the East Sea Dragon Palace''s crown prince came. Now, a flood dragon is here too."


    "If you took any longer to come, I might have gone to your Yellow Wyrm Lake." Qin Yun sat there with a cold and austere expression.


    Indeed, he had to settle the matter with Yellow Wyrm Lake before he went to the West Sea.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I knew that you had been entertaining many guests these past few days. I didn''t want to come and ruin your good mood; therefore, I deliberately came to meet you a few days late," said Yellow Wyrm immediately. "Regarding that daughter of mine¡­"


    "Wait." Qin Yun raised his hand to stop him. "Wait till she comes before you continue."


    Yellow Wyrm was somewhat embarrassed.


    Qin Yun did not have a polite attitude which made Yellow Wyrm feel very uncomfortable. He could also sense Qin Yun''s anger and killing intent. Furthermore, he had investigated the matter ahead of time. "That Fu Qing who died was apparently Qin Yun''s brother-in-arms at the northern borders. With him dead, Qin Yun would definitely not let the matter rest. Regardless, even if I have to call him grandpa, I will not let him vent his anger on me. It''s all that bitch''s fault."


    Yellow Wyrm had already made his plans so he was naturally very calm.


    "Uncle Qin." A young girl ran over from afar. She was none other than the young fish demoness, Fu Sizhuo.


    The moment she saw the humanoid Yellow Wyrm with a flood dragon''s head, her expression turned pale.


    "Sizhuo, come over here," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, Uncle Qin." Fu Sizhuo stood beside Qin Yun.


    "Speak, how are you going to answer to me?" Qin Yun looked coldly at Yellow Wyrm.


    Yellow Wyrm looked at Fu Sizhuo and could not but have tears well in his eyes. He said with a shake of his head, "I''m really ashamed. Despite being Flood Dragon King of Yellow Wyrm Lake, I was unable to protect my daughter. To be honest, my wife is oppressive and jealous. As I couldn''t stand her, I secretly had affairs, and had illegitimate children as a result. I would give them some treasures with the hope they would lead normal lives. I didn''t even dare to think of bringing them into Flood Dragon Palace. But who knew that my wife would investigate in secret and have each and every one of them killed?"


    Fu Sizhuo gnashed her teeth when she heard that. She recalled the days of being pursued.


    "And you didn''t know about it?" Qin Yun sneered.


    "I really knew nothing in the beginning," said Yellow Wyrm immediately. "When I later learned of it, most of them had already been killed. Furthermore, my wife is very bossy so all I could do was bear with her and pretend I didn''t know about it."


    "What a wimp," commented Qin Yun.


    "I''m a wimp but I had no choice either," said Yellow Wyrm.


    Qin Yun nodded, "Are you implying that all of this was done by the Dragon Queen alone?"


    "Yes, I believe that if Sword Immortal Qin carefully investigates, you will definitely realize I speak the truth," said Yellow Wyrm. "This matter has nothing to do with me, from beginning to end."


    "You eventually learned of it but you didn''t even try to stop her," said Qin Yun.


    "It would be useless even if I did try," answered Yellow Wyrm immediately.


    "Then, how are you going to answer to me?" questioned Qin Yun with a frown.


    Yellow Wyrm looked at Qin Yun, and Fu Sizhuo beside him. He said with a voice transmission, "Sword Immortal Qin, this matter was all the work of that shrew. Feel free to kill her. You won¡¯t hear a complaint from me."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    Feel free to kill her?


    This was the Flood Dragon King''s wife!


    "Say that aloud for Sizhuo," said Qin Yun.


    Yellow Wyrm hesitated for a moment before saying, "Alright. I have had enough of that shrew! She stirred a lot of trouble this time so she naturally has to live with her actions. Sword Immortal Qin feel free to kill her! I, Yellow Wyrm, will definitely not utter a complaint."


    Fu Sizhuo were somewhat dumbstruck when she heard this.


    "Daughter." Yellow Wyrm looked at Fu Sizhuo. "That shrew is now afraid. She has fled! Follow Daddy back to Flood Dragon Palace. No one will bully you again."


    "My name is Fu Sizhuo and my father''s name is Fu Qing," said the young fish demoness with reddened eyes. "I will forever be a daughter of the Fu family."


    Yellow Wyrm felt a little embarrassed.


    In fact, he had all sorts of lovers outside the palace and he cared little for a mere fish demoness. He had only made the offer because of Qin Yun. In truth, he never thought anything of his illegitimate children''s deaths.


    "That''s okay. I won''t force you. You can call yourself anything you like. I owe you everything," said Yellow Wyrm immediately. "Are you at least willing to return to Flood Dragon Palace with me?"


    "No." The fish demoness shook her head. "My father wanted me to follow Uncle Qin."


    "That''s too much of a burden on Sword Immortal Qin," said Yellow Wyrm immediately.


    "She will stay in my Qin Manor for the foreseeable future," said Qin Yun.


    Yellow Wyrm immediately gave an obsequious smile. "That''s good. With Sword Immortal Qin here, I''ll be more assured too. Daughter, here are some gifts that I prepared for you. Also, there are some Dharmic formulations for cultivation." With that said, he placed a Cosmic Bag on a stone table.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Where is Dragon Queen currently?"


    "On the day you fought the numerous fiendish demons, that shrew fled in fear. She returned to her parental family," said Yellow Wyrm.


    "Parental family?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "Yes." Yellow Wyrm nodded. "That shrew is the daughter of Black Dragon Palace''s Palatial Lord from the Po Prefecture''s Po Cloud Lake. Therefore, you should understand why I let her bully me."


    Qin Yun frowned.


    Po Cloud Lake was the biggest lake in the world! The lake was so large that it covered half the Po Prefecture!


    Furthermore, Po Cloud Lake had many Water demons. Out of all the Water demons that had gained immortality, Po Cloud Lake had a total of six!


    As a Daoist sacred land of the Po Prefecture, only The Divine Firmament Chapter was able to suppress Po Cloud Lake''s rampant aggression.


    "She''s in Po Cloud Lake''s Black Dragon Palace?" Qin Yun also knew that Black Dragon Palace was where an existence at the immortal level resided.


    "That shrew knows that you are formidable and fled a long time ago," said Yellow Wyrm. "I couldn''t do a thing about it either."


    "Fine, I understand." Qin Yun nodded. "Alright, you may leave."


    "Yes, yes, yes." A delighted Yellow Wyrm respectfully departed.


    Qin Yun watched him leave as he secretly ruminated over the matter. "This Yellow Wyrm wishes his wife dead. And Dragon Queen sent her subordinates to pursue a mere fish demoness who had evaded her for years. Why did she go through that much effort to hunt down so many illegitimate children? Ws it really only out of of jealousy? It feels like there''s more to this matter."


    "However, Scholar''s death was indeed a result of Dragon Queen¡¯s orders. She had sent the demons to pursue him. And now she''s hiding in Black Dragon Palace?" Qin Yun frowned.


    ¡­


    Whoosh.


    Yellow Wyrm left Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance on a cloud as he headed straight for Qian Prefecture''s Yellow Wyrm Lake.


    "Haha, hahaha¡­" Yellow Wyrm laughed out loud and was feeling quite pleased.


    "Qin Yun, oh Qin Yun. You have really helped me greatly." Yellow Wyrm laughed out loudly. "Old fool Black Dragon, you machinated for a thousand years and aimed to scheme against us yellow flood dragons. In order to tie up loose ends, you even killed all my illegitimate children. Unfortunately, trying to assassinate the fish demoness has provoked Sword Immortal Qin. If your daughter continued staying in Flood Dragon Palace, he would probably have killed her in a single strike."


    "From this day forth, I will be the true king of Yellow Wyrm Lake."


    "Awesome!"


    Yellow Wyrm''s eyes were filled with crazy delight.


    ¡­


    In Po Cloud Lake, Black Dragon Palace.


    "Good-for-nothing. All of you are good-for-nothings!" A massive black dragon lay prone in a coiled fashion. His eyes were burning with anger. "The yellow flood dragons nearly fell into my hand but you ended up giving them a chance."


    "Father." Dragon Queen stood by the side obediently. She no longer had the arrogant airs she had back at Flood Dragon Palace.


    "You even managed to offend a Paramount realm sword immortal while trying to assassinate a lowly fish demoness. You truly are¡­" Black Dragon looked at her.


    Dragon Queen obediently lowered her head. "I didn''t expect it either. She was just an ordinary lesser fish demoness. How was I to know that Qin Yun would join in the fray?"


    "Let me think of another solution." Black Dragon squinted his eyes. "I can''t let my plans be ruined because of Qin Yun. This has been in the works for a thousand years. I have put so much effort into this and I absolutely cannot let it go to waste."


    ******


    In Grand Dominance, Qin Manor. The 19th of February.


    After staying at home for quite a period of time, Qin Yun was done gathering all the required intelligence for his trip to the West Sea. He prepared to set off.


    "Brother Yun, are you really going alone?" Yi Xiao felt unwilling to part with him.


    "My trip might require me to deal with Curmudgeon Blacktide. It will be easier if I went alone," said Qin Yun with a smile. "If anything happens, I''ll message you."


    "Alright then." Yi Xiao nodded.


    Qin Yun smiled faintly.


    In fact, dealing with Curmudgeon Blacktide would be nothing much. The most important goal was to save his mother-in-law! That made it unsuitable for Yi Xiao to accompany him for the time being. It would not be too late to tell after the matter was settled.


    "Alright, I''m leaving." Qin Yun gently hugged his wife.


    "Don''t be careless just because you are at the Paramount realm. Make sure to be wary of everything," exhorted Yi Xiao as she hugged him.


    Qin Yun smiled and immediately tore through the skies. After reaching a high altitude, he transformed into a beam that rapidly headed west. Yi Xiao looked up and watched Qin Yun vanish from her line of sight.


    ¡­


    He traveled west using Beam Transformation Art the entire journey. Qin Yun set off in the morning and flew across the entire land from east to west. By noon, he reached the western coast and entered the massive West Sea.


    "Woosh~"


    The sea seemed boundless.


    "Xiaoxiao''s mother violated the Dragon race''s rules and was imprisoned for five centuries. In order to get her out, I definitely have to obtain the approval of the West Sea Dragon King and the various Elders of the West Sea Dragon race." Qin Yun nodded. "In that case, I might as well visit West Sea Dragon King directly."


    Whoosh.


    Qin Yun flew straight towards West Sea Dragon Palace.

 201 Dragon Kings Rejection

    Chapter 201: Dragon King''s Rejection


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After entering the West Sea, Qin Yun continued flying at his beam transformation speed for another hour.


    "Splash!"


    After that, Qin Yun flew straight into the sea.


    Dozens of feet of water parted around him. With his sword intent domain spanning about a thousand feet, parting the water was a trivial matter.


    When he descended to the bottom of the sea, Qin Yun continued proceeding until he saw a lofty and resplendent palace in the distance.


    "Halt there!" Two voices boomed.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two Water race soldiers flew over. They blocked Qin Yun¡¯s progress with spears held in front of them.


    "I''m Qin Yun, a cultivator from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. I wish to seek an audience with the West Sea Dragon King. Please inform your king," said Qin Yun with a smile. With the sword intent domain parting the water, it naturally affected the surroundings. The two Water race soldiers also felt pressure from the sword intent domain.


    "Qin Yun of Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance? Alright. Cultivator, wait here. I''ll pass on the message now," one of the Water race soldiers shouted before rapidly heading for West Sea Dragon Palace.


    The remaining Water race soldier looked curiously at Qin Yun. After all, the West Sea Dragon King was of respectable standing. Even Connate Golden Core cultivators would find it difficult to meet the Dragon King. Why did this Qin Yun suddenly dare to seek an audience with the Dragon King? What background did he have?


    "West Sea Dragon Palace."


    Qin Yun looked far into the distance at the resplendent and lofty palace.


    In terms of strength, the West Sea Dragon race was on equal footing with the human''s Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands! The East Sea Dragon race was the leader of the Four Seas and it was unfathomable. The Four Seas'' Dragon race allied together and controlled the Four Seas. Of course, it was due to a common enemy¡ªthe Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons! Therefore, the Four Seas'' Dragon race always had a rather good relationship with humans.


    "Haha, are you Sword Immortal Qin from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance?" From afar, a dragon youth came over. He was laughing loudly, and beside him was the Water race soldier that had previously left.


    "That''s me," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, it is very rare for you come to our West Sea. My name is Ao Chen. Father sent me to welcome you," said Ao Chen warmly.


    Qin Yun was enlightened, "You must be the Third Prince."


    The West Sea''s Third Prince escorted Qin Yun in. As Qin Yun looked around, he was astonished. The periphery of the West Sea Dragon Palace was heavily guarded. Array formations were hidden, and it was only because Qin Yun''s intent domain was so sensitive that he was able to sense the terrifying might lurking within them. After he entered the Dragon Palace, he saw many beautiful Water race women that probably worked there as palace maids.


    Inside West Sea Dragon Palace''s main hall.


    After Qin Yun stepped in, he saw the West Sea Dragon King and two dragons seating on an elevated throne. The three had magnificent auras that put them on the level of immortals and fiendcelestials. It was known as the True Dragon realm among dragons.


    "Father, Sword Immortal Qin is here." Ao Chen said respectfully. With that, he stood in a corner. There were other dragon youths that were standing by the side, watching.


    "Greetings Dragon King and Elders, I''m Qin Yun from the human race." Qin Yun bowed. The Dragon King was being hospitable by meeting him with two Elders.


    "Haha, I have heard that the humans have produced an impressive sword immortal. I was actually sighing that since Sword Immortal Qin lives beside the East Sea, it was unlikely he would come to my West Sea. But it hasn''t taken long for you to come meet me. It gladdens me greatly." West Sea Dragon King''s voice was sincere as he laughed out loudly.


    Qin Yun smiled faintly.


    A gray-robed dragon Elder asked, "Sword Immortal Qin, might I know why you came to our West Sea Dragon Palace?"


    "I do have a request," said Qin Yun.


    "Feel free to say it. If there''s something you need help with, our West Sea Dragon Palace will definitely help you," said West Sea Dragon King.


    Qin Yun looked around him. "This matter is somewhat confidential."


    "Oh?" West Sea Dragon King swept his gaze around the room.


    Immediately, the palace maids and guards rapidly retreated. Other than Qin Yun, the West Sea Dragon King, and the two dragon Elders in the hall, the rest were dragon youths.


    "You can speak freely now," said West Sea Dragon King with a smile.


    Qin Yun could tell that the dragon youths were pure-blooded dragons. They likely knew of his mother-in-law, Ao Xue. After all, there were very few pure-blooded dragons left in the world.


    "The West Sea Dragon race has a dragon lady whose name is Ao Xue," said Qin Yun.


    "Ao Xue?" The dragon youths were astonished.


    "Why is he mentioning Ao Xue? Ao Xue has been imprisoned for more than two decades."


    "Sister, that''s because you are unaware. Back then, Ao Xue secretly had a daughter with a member of the Yi family. That daughter''s name is Yi Xiao, and she is Sword Immortal Qin''s wife."


    "I see."


    The few dragon youths discussed through voice transmissions.


    Qin Yun continued, "I believe Your Majesty and the Elders know the relationship between Ao Xue and my wife. Therefore, I wish to implore Your Majesty to pardon Ao Xue and release her! Of course, I am aware that Ao Xue has violated the clan rules. I am willing to give this treasure to the West Sea Dragon Palace to offset her crime." With that said, Qin Yun took out a black jade bottle.


    "In this bottle is an Immortal Pill, named the Golden Core Outer Pill," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Currently, there are only a handful of Golden Core Outer Pills in the world. It''s rare enough to make many cultivators go crazy over it. Even the Water race can be rejuvenated after consuming a Golden Core Outer Pill."


    "I''m willing to provide the Immortal Pill in exchange for Your Majesty''s pardon of Ao Xue. My wife and I would definitely be grateful for it," said Qin Yun as he bowed.


    West Sea Dragon race and the two dragon Elders exchanged looks as they communicated over voice transmissions.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said West Sea Dragon King with a frown. "This matter is supposed to be confidential among the West Sea Dragon race. We have never made it public but since you know about it¡­ I guess you can say that you are a relative of our West Sea Dragon race. However, the Dragon race''s rules are jointly determined by the Four Seas'' Dragon race! We are pained that Ao Xue has to suffer for the grave crime she committed but it is necessary that she be punished!"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, it''s best you take the Immortal Pill back. Ao Xue made a mistake so she has to suffer the punishment," said West Sea Dragon King.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly when he heard that. He said immediately, "She''s also a dragon. Why is there a need to cause her such suffering? She has already been imprisoned for more than twenty years, not to mention the suffering of being separated from her family¡­"


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said one of the Dragon Elders. "You humans have laws while we dragons have clan rules. A violation of the clan rules deserves punishment. Sword Immortal Qin, there''s no need for you to continue."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, it is rare for you to come to the West Sea. Let Ao Chen accompany you around. We have matters to tend to." West Sea Dragon King stood up together with the two Dragon Elders before they turned to leave.


    "Your Majesty¡­" Qin Yun began shouting.


    However, West Sea Dragon King and the two Elders did not turn their heads. They left through a side door.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, let''s go." Third Prince walked over and said, "It''s very difficult to make an exception when it comes to our Dragon race''s rules. I heard the last exception was when the Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang went to the East Sea."


    "Third Prince," asked Qin Yun softly. "Do you know of any way to save Ao Xue?"


    "I do not know." Third Prince shook his head. "This is a matter that Father and the Elders hold authority on. If they could pardon her, the rest of the Dragon race from the three seas would not force it on us."


    "Dragon King and the Elders?" Qin Yun frowned.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stayed another hour in the West Sea Dragon Palace where he chatted with many dragon youths. They also knew that Qin Yun was considered a relative of the West Sea Dragon race, so they were very warm. But as juniors, they were unable to help save Ao Xue in any way.


    An hour later, Qin Yun left helplessly.


    "The Four Seas'' Dragon race have a long heritage and countless treasures. If I want to get them to make an exception¡­" Qin Yun shook his head gently. "Ao Xue is a pure-blood dragon and there are very few dragons left to begin with. Yet, they still insisted on imprisoning her for five hundred years. Getting them to agree to release her is easier said than done."


    "Furthermore, our meeting might have appeared cordial but they rejected me very swiftly. There was no room for discussion at all," thought Qin Yun.


    If he was a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao, making him invincible, perhaps there would be room for negotiation.


    "However, how should I tell Xiaoxiao about this?" Qin Yun flew out of the sea and rode a cloud. His brows remained frowned. "If I tell Xiaoxiao that her mother is imprisoned and can¡¯t be freed, I will only make Xiaoxiao sad and worried."


    "Right, let''s try another method."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Above a cloud, Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token. His Inspect Heavenly Token had already been changed to a Purple-token. There was no need to verify if Qin Yun had reached the Golden Core realm or not. Just his killing of great fiendish demons was enough reason to make him a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador.


    Hum!


    An image appeared in front of him in midair. It was the interior of a water palace. There was water flowing around as a flood dragon covered in dark red scales coiled there. His dragon whiskers were flailing and he looked at Qin Yun. "Sword Immortal Qin, might I know your reason for contacting my Myriad Temple?"


    "Ao Xue, a West Sea dragon is imprisoned for five hundred years. I wish for the West Sea Dragon race to pardon her and let her go free." Qin Yun looked at the dark red-scaled flood dragon projection in front of him. "Is it possible for the Myriad Temple to do so?"

 202 Conditions for Pardoning

    Chapter 202: Conditions for Pardoning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Myriad Temple had once bragged that it was so formidable that it could do nearly anything. Qin Yun decided to test that claim.


    "Pure-blooded dragon?" The dark red-scaled flood dragon had an amused glint in its eyes. "According to what I know, she violated the Dragon race''s rules. The West Sea Dragon race was infuriated back then and imprisoned her for five hundred years so as to make her suffer the pain of lonely solitude. You wish for the West Sea Dragon race to pardon her?"


    "I''m asking you if the Myriad Temple is capable of accomplishing that." Qin Yun frowned.


    "Yes."


    The dark red-scaled flood dragon nodded slightly. "There is a price for everything, however. As long as one can make appropriate payment, it is naturally doable."


    "What are your terms?" Qin Yun was delighted.


    "My Myriad Temple will have to investigate the matter thoroughly. I''ll tell you the way to pardon her in an hour," said the flood dragon.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    With that, the transmission was cut.


    "I hope that whatever they ask for in exchange is something I''m capable of delivering. When all is settled, I can finally tell Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun overlooked the West Sea. "Meanwhile, I have two other things to do on my trip here to the West Sea. One of them is to search for the missing Yi family members and the other is to confirm Bai Junchen''s outcome from Curmudgeon Blacktide."


    Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token in hand as he commanded with his mind. Large paragraphs of text appeared in the Inspect Heavenly Token with all sorts of figures and information.


    It was not difficult to ascertain Bai Junchen''s outcome. He just needed to meet Curmudgeon Blacktide.


    As for searching for the Yi family members¡­


    "Disappearance?"


    "Two Connate True Core cultivators vanished just like that."


    "The Divine Firmament Chapter has also investigated before. Their transmission marks have yet to dissipate so they are clearly still alive! However, they cannot be contacted," thought Qin Yun. "Back when we were in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, we were unable to communicate with the outside world as well. These two Yi family members must have fallen into some special region."


    "The location of their final message is here!"


    Qin Yun looked at the map that appeared in his Inspect Heavenly Token as he ruminated with knitted brows.


    Disappearance in the vast sea was indeed troublesome.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun waited for the Myriad Temple''s reply as he studied the other two matters.


    As for the dark red-scaled flood dragon from Myriad Temple, it contacted another existence.


    "Elder Ao Qiong." The flood dragon smiled as a female dragon Elder appeared in a projection in front of it.


    Elder Ao Qiong was very old. She asked, "Why is your Myriad Temple looking for me?"


    "Might I know what conditions must be met for the West Sea Dragon race to pardon Ao Xue and give her freedom?" asked the flood dragon.


    "Pardon Ao Xue?"


    Elder Ao Qiong hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Either produce a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure or a Skydragon Blood Crystal. If either of these two conditions are accomplished, I can pardon Ao Xue. Also, I can pay the commission that the Myriad Temple requires on my side."


    "Alright." The flood dragon nodded. "Elder Ao Qiong, you must not go back on your word once you agree to it."


    "I understand the Myriad Temple''s rules." Elder Ao Qiong nodded.


    The flood dragon nodded its head slightly as well.


    In the Divine Firmament Chapter, the sect master had a rather high status and appeared to manage the external affairs. But the one that had the final say in the Divine Firmament Chapter was Ancestral Master Zhang! By that same logic, the person who could truly make the decision for the West Sea Dragon race was Elder Ao Qiong. Her words carried weight! It was not difficult for her to even change the reigning West Sea Dragon King.


    ******


    In the clouds, Qin Yun was ruminating over methods to find the missing Yi family members. He was also waiting.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun revealed a look of glee.


    He held the Inspect Heavenly Token and quickly made the connection.


    A projection appeared in front of him in midair. It was the unfathomable dark red-scaled flood dragon. Qin Yun always felt wistful when he saw the flood dragon. This was a flood dragon that was at the level of immortals and fiendcelestials; yet, it dealt with such trifling matters.


    "How is it?" asked Qin Yun immediately.


    "To the Myriad Temple, the violation of the Dragon race''s rules is nothing," said the flood dragon. "I can give you two options. One of them is to secretly rescue Ao Xue and the other is to get the West Sea Dragon race to initiate the pardon."


    "Naturally, I would pursue the pardon," said Qin Yun.


    Secretly rescue her?


    He would probably be hunted down by the Four Seas'' Dragon race for the rest of his life.


    "The price for the pardon is a little higher," said the flood dragon. "There are three methods. You can choose any one of them."


    Qin Yun listened carefully.


    "First, it can be accomplished with enough treasures. One transcendent-grade Dharma treasure would do," said the flood dragon with a faint smile.


    Qin Yun felt his heart twitch. A transcendent-grade Dharma treasure? He had already sold the Golden Core Cauldron he obtained!


    Many top-grade cultivation sects would not even have one transcendent-grade Dharma treasure! Even the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands only had a small handful of transcendent-grade Dharma treasures.


    "Second, a Skydragon Blood Crystal," said the flood dragon with a smile. "It is something left behind after an ancient Skydragon dies! It is extremely precious. I can tell you where to seek one out. But it''s very difficult and very dangerous."


    "Then, what about the third option?" asked Qin Yun eagerly.


    "The third method is that you have to agree to work for my Myriad Temple for a hundred years after you step into the Dao, Sword Immortal Qin," said the flood dragon with a smile. "If you agree to it, my Myriad Temple will help you get the West Sea Dragon race to pardon Ao Xue."


    "Work for a hundred years after stepping into the Dao?" Qin Yun frowned.


    A sword immortal that stepped into the Dao was invincible! There were many things he could do. For instance, in Elder Sword''s craziness, he stormed the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons''s territory to rob them of their manuals. The fiendcelestials who did not wish to cross swords with him were forced to! He defeated many of them, and there was even one fiendcelestial that was ultimately killed by Elder Sword.


    "Of course, my Myriad Temple can guarantee that you will only be dispatched to deal with great fiendish demons and fiendcelestials. We will not send you to your death," said the flood dragon. It added, "As long as you are agreeable to that, you do not need to make any payment now. You can help my Myriad Temple for a hundred years after you step into the Dao."


    "Aren''t you afraid that I would go back on my promise?" asked Qin Yun.


    "It will not just be a simple promise, obviously. My Myriad Temple will request Sword Immortal Qin to undergo a magus hex ritual. If you went back on the promise, the hex would trigger and you would die on the spot," said the flood dragon with a laugh. "Of course, as long as you do not go back on the promise, you would be fine. This magus hex is a heritage that even Magistress Mountain has lost. The cost of setting up the ritual is almost that of a first-grade Dharma treasure. It is because my Myriad Temple believes that you will eventually step into the Dao that we are willing to pay such a huge price."


    Qin Yun was resistant to the idea. As the Myriad Temple was too mysterious, he was unwilling to allow them to cast hexes on him. What if they tampered something in secret and made him their puppet? Qin Yun knew that there were means in the magus arts to make others follow them loyally forever.


    A magus hex? Work for a hundred years?


    Qin Yun rejected it in his heart.


    As for the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure? He could not produce one! The Skydragon Blood Crystal?


    "Might I know where I can seek a Skydragon Blood Crystal?" asked Qin Yun.


    "It''s just a hundred years of service. As for the magus hex, it''s only to prevent you from going back on your promise. My Myriad Temple''s reputation has been known by all since ancient times. We will definitely not harm you, Sword Immortal Qin," said the flood dragon. "Sword Immortal Qin, aren''t you going to deliberate on it?"


    "There''s no need. I want to know how I can find a Skydragon Blood Crystal," urged Qin Yun.


    The flood dragon nodded. "Alright, I''ll tell you the method to find the Skydragon Blood Crystal. However, it''s very difficult and very dangerous."


    Whoosh.


    A large wall of text and figures were sent.


    "Be careful. The Four Seas'' Dragon race have gone on several risky expeditions before," said the flood dragon before it terminated the transmission.


    Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token and looked at the detailed information the flood dragon had sent him.


    In the West Sea¡­


    There was an ancient Skydragon palace. The ancient Skydragon was a terrifying dragon breed in ancient times that vied for supremacy with various fiendcelestials. It was powerful, and it had a palace it stayed in temporarily that was naturally heavily defended. Legend said that the ancient Skydragon eventually fought to its death with an Other Realm Fiendcelestial in a final battle. From then on, the Ancient Skydragon Palace was lost. After a long period of time, with the array formations of the ancient Skydragon Palace gradually breaking down, an entrance was discovered six thousand years ago.


    However, the dragon palace''s array formation''s suppression was extremely powerful.


    Immortals were unable to gain entry but those below could. The experts of the Four Seas'' Dragon race had entered to explore it several times. In the beginning, they had obtained quite a few Skydragon Blood Crystals. But the remaining areas became more perilous. It became more and more difficult to find Skydragon Blood Crystals. According to the intelligence from the Myriad Temple, not a single Skydragon Blood Crystal had been found from the ancient Skydragon Palace in the last three thousand years.


    "The ancient Skydragon''s temporary palace might be a dangerous place but the Four Seas Dragon race have explored it several times. The danger shouldn''t be that high," thought Qin Yun.


    "Based on the range of the array formations of the palace, it spans about fifteen hundred kilometers. It sure is huge," thought Qin Yun.


    He looked at the general location of the ancient Skydragon Palace as well as the twelve entrances that had been discovered.


    The so-called entrances were actually flaws in the array formations, allowing others to gain entry. The Four Seas Dragon race had long probed these areas repeatedly.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun revealed a look of surprise. He waved his hand as a map appeared beside him. It was also the last known location of the Yi family members before they went missing. As he compared the two maps, he realized something. "The location where the Yi family members disappeared is very close to the fifteen-hundred-kilometer ancient Skydragon Palace''s periphery."

 203 Ancient Skydragon Palace Part 1/2

    Qin Yun looked at the vast West Sea and pondered. "According to the Myriad Temple''s intelligence, the Ancient Skydragon Palace has twelve entrances. The Four Seas Dragon race has been exploring them for more than six thousand years! However, in the last three thousand years, no Skydragon Blood Crystal has been obtained. The Four Seas Dragon race has many experts, and I¡¯m sure that in the past three thousand years there have been experts who have stepped into the Dao. If I use the same old entrances, the chances of me obtaining a Skydragon Blood Crystal are slim."


    "If I can find a new entrance that leads into a new area of the Ancient Skydragon Palace, perhaps I might be able to obtain a Skydragon Blood Crystal."


    "The Yi family members left Kunlun Prefecture and entered the West Sea. They flew the whole way and this is their last known location before they disappeared. And here is where the Ancient Skydragon Palace is." Qin Yun compared the maps. "If the Yi family members had accidentally entered the Ancient Skydragon Palace, they might have entered from the southeast!"


    Qin Yun gently drew a circle over the likely areas.


    "I''ll investigate the area around here."


    Sou!


    He cast Beam Transformation Art and rapidly tore through the sky. After some flying, he plummeted deep into the sea.


    At the bottom of the sea.


    There were corals and schools of fish. Qin Yun stayed close to the seabed as the water naturally parted.


    "The Ancient Skydragon Palace has profound array formations. I will not be able to sense them with my psyche," thought Qin Yun. "I can only use my sword intent domain to probe. Thankfully, my sword intent domain covers a thousand feet of my surroundings."


    As he flew beneath the sea, he gradually entered a region of the Ancient Skydragon Palace according to the map''s markings.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. Despite seeing an underwater mountain, he could not approach it no matter how hard he tried. "I can see it but I can''t reach it."


    "I''ll retreat. I should give it another try from a different spot."


    Qin Yun retreated.


    The spot where the Yi family members disappeared was close to the Ancient Skydragon Palace but Qin Yun still needed to extrapolate their general direction. He could only make repeated attempts, probing carefully with his thousand-feet-range sword intent domain, in search of the array formation''s entrance. However, most regions of the array formation were operating normally. Qin Yun''s efforts were wasted time and time again.


    He was also certain that nothing about this was a coincidence. The transmission marks of the Yi family members were clearly still there but they could not be contacted. That meant that they were trapped in some odd space! The surrounding area happened to have the Ancient Skydragon Palace, so how could it be a coincidence?


    Therefore, he could only take it slow.


    ¡­


    In what seemed like a blink of an eye, he had spent slightly more than half a month probing the area.


    "Brother Yun, have you found my Yi family members?" On the seabed, Qin Yun was communicating with Yi Xiao using his Inspect Heavenly Token.


    "No, I''m still looking for them." Qin Yun shook his head.


    "You have already been searching for so long and have done your best. If you can''t find them, just forget it. I heard you mention the Ancient Skydragon Palace. That is quite a dangerous place," said Yi Xiao.


    "The Ancient Skydragon Palace''s array formation keeps throwing me off the path. I''ll give it another try. If they have entered, as I surmise, I should be able to enter too," said Qin Yun. "Every time I advance, I record my path. Xiaoxiao, don''t worry."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Alright, just remember that we are only lending a hand to help others. Don''t endanger yourself."


    "Rest assured, my wife." Qin Yun grinned.


    Although he had informed his wife about the Ancient Skydragon Palace, he temporarily kept the matter about the search for the Skydragon Blood Crystal and saving Ao Xue from her.


    He would inform her only after he found it.


    In another blink of an eye, three more days passed. Qin Yun retreated time and time again. He tried different paths to advance towards the Ancient Skydragon Palace and recorded the details of his travels every time.


    "Oh?"


    On the seabed, the seawater was naturally parted around Qin Yun. He revealed a look of surprise.


    His repeated searches were indeed very dull and boring. If it were not for Yi Xiao''s mother, Qin Yun would have given up long ago. He felt a little jaded after more than twenty days of fruitless searching.


    But at that moment¡ª


    Although he could not see it with his naked eyes, Qin Yun''s sword intent domain could sense an entrance 920 feet away from where he was. When he sent his sword intent domain in, he could sense a brand new world.


    "I found it." Qin Yun was excited. "The flaw in the array formation''s operations."


    "An array formation that has existed since ancient times. With the array formation operational, the Ancient Skydragon Palace disappeared and could not be found. Six thousand years ago, the ancient array formation finally began to show its flaws, resulting in the palace¡¯s detection," thought Qin Yun. "The Four Seas Dragon race has obtained sizable amounts of treasure, such as the Skydragon Blood Crystal they go crazy for, on their expeditions. However, all twelve known entrances have been swept clean numerous times."


    "This is an entrance that has not been marked on the map."


    "I wonder if the lost Yi family members entered through this entrance. Whether they did or not, it''s definitely another entrance to the Ancient Skydragon Palace." Qin Yun felt undulating emotions as he took out an Inspect Heavenly Token.


    A projection appeared in front of him. It was light blue-dressed Yi Xiao in front of a drawing board. She was drawing talismans.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao beamed.


    "I found it. I found the entrance," said Qin Yun.


    "You finally found it? Are they inside?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I do not know. I have to go in to take a look. But once I enter, you might not be able to contact me," said Qin Yun. "I believe transmissions are shielded inside, so don''t be worried if you can''t contact me."


    "You have to be careful." Yi Xiao turned nervous when she heard that.


    Qin Yun looked at his wife, feeling both nervous and anticipant. He looked forward to finding the Skydragon Blood Crystal and informing his wife about her mother when the time came.


    "Wait for me to return." After Qin Yun cut the transmission, he headed for the entrance. But as he flew towards it, he felt distortions from the array formation. The more he flew, the farther he seemed to get from the entrance.


    Thankfully, he had the entrance pinpointed. Only after attempting more than ten times did he reach the entrance.


    His sword intent domain around him tore through the obstruction as Qin Yun entered through the array formation''s flaw.


    ¡­


    The moment he entered, Qin Yun saw a towering and grandiose palace. It was ancient and it extended far out. It was even bigger than the West Sea Dragon Palace. Furthermore, it was made mostly of crystal, making it exude a picturesque beauty.


    However, portions of the ancient crystal palace were in ruins. From afar, Qin Yun could see blood stains.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Bloodlust auras lingered.


    Despite the blood stains having existed since time immemorial, the bloodlust aura in them was still fresh. It even gave Qin Yun a repressive feeling.


    "This must be a bloodstain left behind from the ancient Skydragon''s final fight," thought Qin Yun. "According to data on the other twelve entrances, one of the entrances allowed one to barely see the ancient Skydragon''s corpse from afar."


    The ancient Skydragon''s corpse remained in the palace to this date.


    According to the information, it was believed that the ancient Skydragon had killed an Other Realm Fiendcelestial and died from heavy injuries. But before his death, he had sealed off the entire Skydragon Palace. He did not wish for his corpse to be desecrated or controlled by other fiendcelestials. After all, a Skydragon corpse had many uses. He had protected his corpse very well.


    He had sealed off the entire dragon palace and locked it down with array formations. Even now, immortals and fiendcelestials were unable to enter. His corpse was hidden at the core of the palace. Even thousands of years later, one could only see it from afar through a crack in the palace''s crumbled walls.


    "How exquisite."


    As Qin Yun walked, he entered one of the palace corridors that was closest to him. The corridor was laid out with large crystal panels that showed his reflection.


    "This must be done through a Dharmic spell. This crystal is frozen in place. More than ninety percent of the palace is constructed with crystal. How extravagant. The ancient Skydragon''s Dharmic powers were just too immense. If it were me, I''ll barely be able to construct a hall while constantly freezing crystal." Qin Yun gasped in awe. He was also very careful as he had his sword intent domain permeate his surroundings.


    He entered the hall that was closest to him.


    "Whoosh¨CWhoosh¨C"


    Invisible auras howled as they infiltrated Qin Yun''s sword intent domain. Immediately, they showed themselves.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    Two blood-colored blobs of mist took form as they rapidly surged at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "Break!"


    The sword intent domain barely blocked them. The two blobs of mist constantly encroached upon him, occasionally transforming into sinister-looking heads that stared at Qin Yun, or strange dancing boys and girls. They were shockingly mesmerizing but with Qin Yun''s soul having reached the Connate Golden Core level, and his achieving the Sword Intent Paramount realm, how could he fall for charms that easily? The two blobs of mist flew about five hundred feet into Qin Yun''s sword intent domain before dissipating.


    "Just two aura blobs can resist the sword intent domain for that long?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. "For it to be so sinister, it has to be a fiend''s aura. Even great fiendish demons are not that terrifying. It has to be a fiendcelestial. It could even be the Other Realm Fiendcelestial that had been killed."


    "It died in ancient times but the remnant auras it leaves behind are still this terrifying? Or could I have guessed wrongly?"


    Qin Yun turned more vigilant.


    From accounts of the other twelve entrances, there was an instance of seeing the ancient Skydragon''s corpse from afar but the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse or aura were not detected. It could also be possible that the Four Seas'' Dragon race had discovered it but it was not included in the intelligence the Myriad Temple gave him.


    After a cursory look at the hall, he proceeded through a side door.


    Just a few steps later, Qin Yun saw two men dressed in Daoist robes. They were sitting cross-legged a distance away in the hall''s passage. However, they were motionless with their faces occasionally twitching.


    "Found them."

 204 Ancient Skydragon Palace Part 2/2

    "It''s the two missing Yi family members." Qin Yun confirmed at a glance that they were the ones he was looking for.


    His sword intent domain enveloped the duo and silently entered their bodies. There were sinister, blood-colored fiend auras inside of them.


    "Fiendish auras have entered their bodies. They chose to seal their souls?" Qin Yun nodded gently. "Perhaps their souls have already been tainted slightly. In order to prevent themselves from fully losing themselves, one option would be to seal their own souls. Thankfully they are Connate True Core realm cultivators. They have a tremendous amount of Dharmic powers that can ensure that they will be fine without eating or drinking for more than half a year. If this continued on for another year or two, they would really starve to death."


    Connate cultivators could survive on consuming the wind and imbibing the dew.


    It sounded good but, in fact, they were absorbing the spirit energies of the Heaven and Earth to convert into Dharmic powers, replenishing the body''s expenditures! At the same time, water was still needed or their bodies would be severely dehydrated. If Connate cultivators sat there without eating, drinking, or absorbing the spirit energies of the world, they would eventually die after two years of hunger or thirst.


    "They would be fine even a few months from now. I''ll enter and take a look around first." Qin Yun continued striding in.


    "Kill! Kill!"


    The deeper he went in, the more fiendish auras he encountered.


    Qin Yun''s sword intent was swift and powerful and his sword intent domain spanned a thousand feet. The fiendish auras swarmed him but dissipated before they could even touch him.


    "The fiendish aura is increasing?" Qin Yun traversed many halls. Occasionally, he would find weapons and treasures left behind by Water demons on the ground. Many of them were damaged while some were low-grade items at the Dharma artifact level. There were also some Dharma treasures at the eighth or ninth-grade. At one point, he chanced upon a fifth-grade trident which left Qin Yun pleasantly surprised. "Back when the ancient Skydragon fought the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, many of the Water demons in the palace probably died from the aftershocks. Many of the Dharma treasures were destroyed and can only be used by melting them into their base components. Furthermore, the Dharma treasures have not been conserved well since ancient times. The weaker Dharma treasures would be severely damaged. Yet, this trident remains intact. That''s rare."


    Qin Yun only took the Dharma treasures that were intact.


    He walked leisurely the entire time.


    "This must be the periphery of the entire Ancient Skydragon Palace. I haven''t even encountered any array formations that impede my progress." After walking a kilometer or so, Qin Yun was still walking in the periphery of the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    Just outside a golden door, there was a black-scaled monster hanging above the door. When Qin Yun walked over, the monster suddenly opened its eyes. Its pupils were amber-green in color.


    "Kill!" The black-scaled monster resembled an ape as it pounced over.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun casually pointed his finger.


    An extremely sharp sword beam tore through the air. As a Paramount realm sword immortal, any sword beam he produced was at the level of an ordinary Connate Golden Core.


    "Pew." The sword beam struck the black-scaled monster, producing grinding sounds as it hit the monster''s armor. However, it was not injured in any way. It landed on the ground and continued its charge towards him.


    "What monster is this?" Qin Yun was baffled. However, he waved his hand and sent a misty flying sword shooting out. Instantly, the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers condensed sword flashes that pursued it. Dozens of sword flashes accompanied the Intrinsic Flying Sword as they swarmed towards the monster.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Successive cracking sounds were heard as the black-scaled monster had its armor split open. However, it did not perish. Instead, it continued charging straight for Qin Yun.


    "Its body is already more powerful than typical Connate Golden Core great fiendish demons." Qin Yun was alarmed. "Bright Moon Over River, go!"


    River waters roared around.


    A bright moon rose!


    The moon-like sword beam bolted towards the black-scaled monster, bringing along with it dozens of sword flashes. In a blink of an eye, it struck six times before the monster stopped completely. Its body was covered in wounds when it began to disintegrate with a fizzle, dissipating into nothingness.


    "Why did its corpse completely disintegrate?" Qin Yun was perplexed. "I didn''t use my sword intent domain to destroy its corpse. Also, I could sense that it lacked sentience but its strength was so formidable."


    Qin Yun was baffled but it made him even more careful.


    As he advanced, the sword intent domain began passing through the back of the golden door. Immediately, he ''saw'' two more black-scaled monsters. Following that, his sword intent domain could not proceed any further. It was suppressed by a more terrifying domain.


    "What? The sword intent domain has been suppressed?" Qin Yun quickly walked through the golden door.


    It took one glance to see everything ahead of him.


    The passage behind the golden door led to a hall. But the entire hall was in ruins. The columns had collapsed and amid the hall''s ruins, he could see more than ten black-scaled monsters clinging to different spots. Some were on the collapsed columns while there were others leaning against the broken crystalline walls. None of them were moving.


    When Qin Yun walked through the golden door, the black-scaled monsters opened their eyes and turned their heads towards him.


    But at that moment, Qin Yun was staring at the middle of the hall.


    Sitting there was a red-scaled gigantic arm that spanned 390 feet! The arm was thick and mighty and the palm was in the shape of a gigantic claw. The fingers resembled sharp sickles! Every finger''s blade ranged from sixty feet to more than a hundred feet long! On second look, every runic fractal on the scaled arm would remain profound even when magnified thousands of times. It was many times more profound than Patriarch Crocdragon''s scales.


    The five sickle-like fingers made Qin Yun shudder just from the sight of them. He felt a baffling sense of horror.


    Furthermore, the arm seemed to form a natural suppressive domain!


    It suppressed Qin Yun''s sword intent domain, preventing it from approaching the arm.


    Around the wrist area of the arm, there were three black bangles that suffused a special aura.


    "These bangles must form a Dharma treasure set." Qin Yun made an instant judgment. "And these three bangles alone give off the feeling that they are not inferior to the transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron. If there are other bangles, the entire Dharma treasure set might be a Numinous treasure."


    Qin Yun swept his gaze over the room.


    He locked his gaze on a pool of red-colored blood that suffused golden light in the middle of the hall. Even after all this time, the blood continued emitting a lofty suppression effect. Furthermore, there were five blood crystals the size of fingertip segments in the blood.


    "Skydragon Blood Crystals? They are identical to the figures given to me by the Myriad Temple." Qin Yun was excited. "It''s obvious that this gigantic arm doesn''t belong to the ancient Skydragon. It must belong to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial. This Other Realm Fiendcelestial is equally terrifying, for its battle with the ancient Skydragon to end with mutual destruction."


    "Roar¡ª"


    "Roar¡ª"


    More than ten scaled monsters stared at Qin Yun. Some emitted a low growl. In addition, the gigantic arm began to emit black mist that condensed to form more black-scaled monsters. In just a blink of an eye, there was a dense horde of black-scaled monsters that numbered in the hundreds. Six of them were clearly larger than the other monsters.


    "No good!" Qin Yun''s expression changed as he turned to flee.


    As he fled, Qin Yun released his Intrinsic Flying Sword. The sword flash bolted towards the Skydragon Blood Crystals that were in the large pool of red-colored blood.


    "Whoosh!" The dense black-scaled monsters began moving, as well as the six leaders!


    "They are fiendmonsters! Servants of fiendcelestials!"


    "Legends speak of fiendcelestials that have extremely powerful bodies. Their auras would naturally form slaves that are known as fiendmonsters. However, fiendmonsters cannot be killed completely! After the fiendish aura disperses, it will condense again to give birth to new fiendmonsters," thought Qin Yun. "However, fiendmonsters cannot be too separated from the fiendcelestial. Secondly, they are usually very weak...but why are these fiendmonsters almost equal to a Connate Golden Core great fiendish demon?"


    "Is it because the Other Realm Fiendcelestial is overwhelmingly powerful? Even the fiendmonsters its corpse generates are so powerful?"


    Qin Yun cast the Cyclic Sword Flash with the first-grade Seven Kills Sword as he sent his Intrinsic Flying Sword to steal the Skydragon Blood Crystals away as it was easier to control and more agile.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The fiendmonster leader disapparated and was extremely fast. Soon, three leaders were holding back Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The moon-like sword beam was extremely fast.


    But the three fiendmonster leaders ignored it and used their bodies to resist the attack. Only small cracks appeared in their scale armor.


    "Samsara! Kill!"


    Qin Yun did not hesitate.


    After all, no matter how powerful his Cyclic Sword Flash was, it could not withstand an assault from hundreds of fiendmonsters since all of them were in no way inferior to a Connate Golden Core realm great fiendish demon.


    Boom! Boom!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was blinding as it led hundreds of sword flashes to rip through the three fiendmonsters'' bodies, as well as another fiendmonster leader. However, it lost its momentum and was unable to do a thing to the second fiendmonster leader.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh!" Black mist rose again from the gigantic arm, reviving the dead fiendmonster leader and the three fiendmonsters again.


    Qin Yun knew that he was unable to kill all the fiendmonsters. Any that died were simply instantly revived. The only solution was to eliminate their source¡ªthe fiendcelestial''s body.


    "Bam!"


    The first-grade flying sword, the Seven Kills Sword, cast the Cyclic Sword Flash and blocked the passage but after the relentless assaults of more than three hundred fiendmonsters, it shattered.


    As for Qin Yun himself, he had already begun fleeing. The second-grade flying sword, Heavy Sand Sword cast the Cyclic Sword Flash once again.


    "Time to leave!"


    Qin Yun put away his Intrinsic Flying Sword and the Seven Kills Sword. By the time the Cyclic Sword Flash from the Heavy Sand Sword shattered, Qin Yun had already escaped more than half a kilometer away. As for the fiendmonsters, they could only rush out a few hundred feet from the golden door before they had to stop.


    "Why did they stop?" Qin Yun frowned. "I was planning on deliberately luring them out and sneaking into the hall through a different path."


    The hall had collapsed so he could naturally circle around it.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun made several attempts and even tried storming the area through open holes from the ruins by circling around the main entrance.


    These fiendmonsters were bound to the vicinity of the hall and the furthest they could go was just slightly more than a thousand feet from the arm. They were guarding it, as well as the five Skydragon Blood Crystals, as though they were their owner''s spoils of war.


    "They are too powerful. Just the number of fiendmonsters add up to 666. This number must mean something. Each of them has a strength that matches that of a great fiendish demon. There are also six leaders, each matching Nine Mountain Island Lord in strength. Even though their bodies aren''t as powerful as Nine Mountain Island Lord''s, they are undying. They are classic examples of fiendmonsters as recorded in canon but even so, I have never heard of them being this strong!" Qin Yun was momentarily at a loss. He could clearly see the Skydragon Blood Crystals and the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm. The latter was priceless as well! The three bangles were probably in no way inferior to the transcendent-grade Golden Core Cauldron.


    But Qin Yun was out of options.


    His strength was insufficient!


    "If I stepped into the Dao, my strength could match immortals and fiendcelestials. Even hundreds of fiendmonsters would not be able to crack my Cyclic Sword Flash. However, how long will it take for me to step into the Dao?" Qin Yun stood a distance away as he looked at the massive red-scaled arm through the collapsed walls.

 205 Temporary Departure

    Chapter 205: Temporary Departure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As he was out of options, Qin Yun could only give up for the moment. He began exploring other regions of the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    The Ancient Skydragon Palace was massive and just the periphery of the palace could be demarcated as a district in and of itself. Qin Yun circled the area and found that the district he entered when he came through the array formation''s entrance spanned about ten kilometers.


    "I have finished exploring this area. The Water race soldiers that were guarding this district must have either escaped or died. As so much time has passed, not a single corpse can be seen. There is only dust. Dharma artifacts and weaker Dharma treasures have disintegrated." Qin Yun held a Cosmic Bag. "After searching the district, I have found two third-grade Dharma treasures, five fourth-grade Dharma treasures, twelve fifth-grade Dharma treasures, many special herbs, and this intact Cosmic Bag."


    After Qin Yun circled the area, he returned to a spot not far from the ruined palace hall and looked at it.


    "Everywhere else is intact but I have no way of getting into the other districts of the Ancient Skydragon Palace. The only way is through this spot!" Qin Yun looked carefully. "The hall collapsed, forming a ruin. The scuffs left behind here are a clear indication of the battle. If I probe the area from here, I might be able to reach different areas of the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Unfortunately, this spot is completely defended by the fiendmonsters."


    Normal palaces had their compounds connected by passages. Every district would have array formations isolating itself from the other districts.


    As for cracking the array?


    The Four Seas Dragon race had entered from the twelve other entrances and obtained Skydragon Blood Crystals and many treasures. However, they could only enter through whatever cracks they could find left behind by the battle, or from flaws in the array formations. As for cracking the array formations with overwhelming strength? How could the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s array formations be something a group of people beneath the level of immortal be able to crack? It was hopeless. Even existences that had stepped into the Dao would not be able to crack the array formations.


    Qin Yun lacked the strength to crack the arrays, and he certainly didn¡¯t have the means to destroy the walls. As for areas where the ancient Skydragon fought the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, there were forbidding cracks. Through two of the cracks, Qin Yun could see the end of another palace hall. It was a hall he had yet to reach but the collapsed hall was completely guarded by the fiendmonsters.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun retreated helplessly after attempting for an hour.


    He returned to where the two Yi family members were sitting cross-legged.


    "The both of you lack an intent domain and can''t even withstand the most basic fiend aura, the first thing you encountered upon entering the Ancient Skydragon Palace." Qin Yun shook his head. "That makes you lucky, however. If you ventured deeper, and encountered just one fiendmonster¡­it would probably rip you two apart."


    The fiendmonsters'' strength was absolutely not something these two cultivators that had yet to grasp the implications of the Heavenly Dao would be able to resist.


    "Let''s go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The two Daoist-robed men floated in midair and followed beside Qin Yun.


    "I''ll bring the two of you back to the Yi family and get Patriarch Yi to save you. Sealing your own souls? With your souls being tainted by the fiendish auras, I have no way of saving you." Qin Yun shook his head. Sword immortals had sharp and overbearing Dharmic powers which were formidable in battle, but as for saving people? And to actually rescue their souls, with the complications caused by the fiendish auras? Just the thought of it gave Qin Yun a headache.


    "Swoosh."


    With the two in tow, he quickly returned to the entrance, by the array formation''s flaw.


    Qin Yun placed the duo down first.


    Following that, he took out several array formation items from his Cosmic Bag.


    "Back when I exited Scenic Yang Immortal Abode and sold the Golden Core Cauldron to the Divine Firmament Chapter, I had yet to reach the Paramount realm! In order to ensure my safety, I bought quite a number of protective items and array formations that I could carry around with me. I can finally put them to use." Qin Yun rapidly set up the array to mend the flaws in the array formation.


    All the suitable arrays were set up¡ªcamouflage, concealment, and sealing. A total of six array formations were set up.


    They were used to feign and conceal auras for the sake of life-preservation.


    "Even if the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s array formation has this flaw, it will be very difficult to find it. I previously relied on my sword intent domain to probe numerous times before discovering it," thought Qin Yun. "Now, even if I were to probe it again, my sword intent domain will only see it as part of the normal seabed."


    "I have to monopolize this entrance. If not, it will be difficult for me to find Skydragon Blood Crystals again," thought Qin Yun.


    He finished setting up the array formations.


    As the array formations'' owner, Qin Yun naturally could control them easily. He quickly passed through the entrance with the duo.


    "Swoosh."


    He carefully proceeded forward.


    According to the route he had recorded, he twisted and turned and eventually, he walked out of the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s periphery array formations.


    "In order to find them, I had deliberately recorded the route I took. The both of them were flying under the sea and it is unlikely they recorded a detailed route. Just two or three feet deviation in the boundless sea would lead one to a completely different region because of the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s array formations." Qin Yun looked at the two men floating behind him. "I guess I''m just unlucky if the both of you actually had recorded the route you took to enter."


    Flying across the boundless sea normally allowed people to traverse more than fifty kilometers in a short while. Typically, one would not deliberately chart out a path with precision down to the foot.


    "Let''s go."


    He flew upwards with the duo and soon, broke through the water''s surface.


    It was already late at night.


    He steered a cloud in flight with him standing in front while the duo continued sitting cross-legged on the cloud.


    He headed all the way east.


    ¡­


    Steering a cloud in flight was much slower than casting Beam Transformation Art. However, Qin Yun had done so deliberately. Qin Yun saw the ancestral land of the Kunlun Prefecture''s Yi family, Yi Water City, only the next morning when the morning sun rose.


    Yi Water City was a city on a high plateau that circled around a humongous mountain. The mountain peak was covered in perennial snow.


    As for Yi Water City, it had a snowy mountain peak in its backdrop. Above the mountain was Purple Cloud Palace, a cultivation area where Patriarch Yi stayed most of the time.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun landed outside Purple Cloud Palace. The disciples there saw him as well as the sitting duo beside him.


    "Martial Uncles." Immediately, disciples ran over and saw the sitting duo. There was a disciple who immediately entered to report the matter.


    "Aren¡¯t you Grand Dominance''s Sword Immortal Qin?" Soon, a female Daoist flew over. When she saw the sitting duo, her eyes could not help but moisten. She immediately asked, "Sword Immortal Qin, how is Fenglai?"


    "Fiend auras have infiltrated their bodies. It''s a little troublesome. Perhaps Patriarch Yi can save them," replied Qin Yun.


    The female Daoist immediately said gratefully, "Sword Immortal Qin, our Yi family will forever be indebted to you for saving the two of them."


    "Patriarch is here."


    "Patriarch."


    It was rare for the disciples at Purple Cloud Palace to see Patriarch Yi. But at that moment, Patriarch Yi had rushed over and, in a few steps, he was beside Qin Yun.


    "Qin Yun, thanks." Patriarch Yi looked solemnly at the duo. "What a formidable fiend aura. Their souls have been partially tainted. Both of them have sealed their souls to guard their Dao hearts and are barely holding on. However, it''s possible for them to fail at any moment. I have to save them immediately. Qin Yun, you can have a rest for now."


    "There''s no need. I still have things to do in the West Sea. I''ll be leaving first," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Alright then." Patriarch Yi nodded. "I really must thank you for this. My Yi family doesn''t have many cultivators, to begin with. Fenggu is dead and if Fenglai and Fengqi were to die¡­"


    The Yi family only had one Connate Golden Core cultivator in the present generation. Previously, they had six Connate True Cores.


    Yi Fenggu was dead.


    Now, if these two died, the Yi family would suffer terrible losses. Patriarch Yi would also be saddened on a personal level.


    "Senior, you will definitely save them with your capabilities," said Qin Yun.


    Patriarch Yi nodded slightly before he waved his hand. The two immediately transformed into a stream of light that flew towards Purple Cloud Palace. Patriarch Yi also took a step before vanishing. Clearly, he was also very worried.


    "Sou!"


    Following that, Qin Yun transformed into a beam that streaked through the sky and vanished across the western horizon.


    "What a fast flying art." The disciples at Purple Cloud Palace looked up and exclaimed.


    "We previously requested help from the Divine Firmament Chapter but they failed to find our Martial Uncles after searching for more than half a year. Yet, Sword Immortal Qin found them. He sure is impressive."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is a Paramount realm sword immortal. There are only a few of those in this world, but for him to find them in the boundless sea, it shows that he must have put forth a lot of effort."


    "Thankfully Sword Immortal Qin is our Yi family''s son-in-law. If not, why would he ever search for them without asking for anything in return?"


    The disciples were discussing fervently.


    ¡­


    In a quiet chamber.


    Patriarch Yi was trying his best to save them. Thankfully, the fiendish auras had not tainted their souls too deeply. After more than an hour, the two finally awakened.


    When the duo awoke to the sight of Patriarch Yi, they heaved a sigh of relief. Following that, they respectfully greeted him, "Patriarch."


    "Both of you have Qin Yun to thank," said Patriarch Yi.


    "Qin Yun?" The duo was baffled. "Isn''t he trapped in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode?"


    "He came out of the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode sometime after the both of you disappeared. Furthermore, he has fought more than twenty fiendish demons and slew two of them. This battle is known throughout the world and Qin Yun is already a Paramount realm sword immortal! He is even able to cast a flying sword art with Infinite Converging Sword," explained Patriarch Yi.


    The duo was shocked once again but they felt grateful.


    Patriarch Yi asked with a frown, "Did the both of you accidentally enter the Ancient Skydragon Palace?"


    "The Ancient Skydragon Palace? What Skydragon Palace?" The duo was somewhat perplexed as it was a confidential location.


    "We accidentally entered an area with a crystalline palace compound that stretched far beyond what the eyes could see. A distance away, there were portions of the palace compound in ruins as well as blood that stained the palace walls."


    "Moments after we entered, we quickly felt our bodies invaded by invisible fiendish auras," explained the duo.


    Patriarch Yi instantly confirmed that it was the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    "How did the two of you enter? Do you still remember the route?" Patriarch Yi inquired in detail. In order to find the duo, the Divine Firmament Chapter had already searched the other twelve entrances to no avail.


    "We were chasing a fiendish demon under the sea. He was fleeing the entire way and eventually escaped into that region of the sea. It was a strange region. Despite the fiendish demon being right in front of us, we could not fly up to him. After some time, we lost him. Later, Fengqi and I were flying when we felt the scene in front of our eyes change before we saw that extended palace compound, "Yi Fenglai explained.


    "Chasing a fiendish demon. You entered the Ancient Skydragon Palace by chasing?" Patriarch Yi frowned. If they were caught up in a fervent pursuit, how could they accurately remember the precise route?


    Just a tiny deviation in that region could result in all sorts of possible routes.


    It was useless to try doing a carpet search. For example, despite there being a region in front of them that they wanted to search, there would be no way of passing through it!


    If it were so easy, the Four Seas Dragon race would have long scoured the entirety of the region that spanned fifteen hundred kilometers.


    "Qin Yun found them, but even if he had blindly entered, he would have recorded a detailed path when he exited," thought Patriarch Yi. "Has he found a new array formation entrance?"

 206 A Word of Caution

    Chapter 206: A Word of Caution


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    West Sea.


    Qin Yun headed for Curmudgeon Blacktide''s lair in a form of a beam.


    "Splash!"


    After entering the sea, Qin Yun went straight for Blacktide Chasm. It was a deep valley at the bottom of the sea with a seemingly bottomless pit. Curmudgeon Blacktide had entrenched himself deep in the chasm.


    There were many water demons in the region. There were also caves built beside the valley, fortified with array formations.


    "Curmudgeon Blacktide!" Qin Yun shouted loudly. His voice transmitted through his sword intent domain, piercing right through the array formations. It resounded throughout the valley, giving many lesser Water demons a fright.


    "There''s a cultivator."


    "A human."


    "To think he dares come to our Blacktide Chasm." These Water race demons readied a large variety of weapons. Other demons went to report the matter.


    Soon.


    A gigantic octopus demon, who was escorted by more than a thousand water demons, flew out of the chasm. His massive body spanned more than two kilometers, making it resemble a tiny island. His tentacles were terrifyingly long and twisted. At that moment, the octopus demon''s black eyes were staring at Qin Yun but he was alarmed. It''s him?


    Qin Yun became famous among the fiendish demons after the battle at Mt. Blue Granny. Even though Curmudgeon Blacktide was a powerful great fiendish demon, he was somewhat afraid of Qin Yun.


    "Are you Sword Immortal Qin? We do not know each other. Why did you come to my Blacktide Chasm?" Curmudgeon Blacktide''s voice boomed.


    "I came here to ask you something," said Qin Yun.


    "Speak, I''m listening," replied Curmudgeon Blacktide.


    "A hundred years ago, did a human cultivator at the Connate True Core realm from the Bai family named Bai Junchen die under your hand?" asked Qin Yun.


    Curmudgeon Blacktide said with a frown, "Yes! I killed Bai Junchen. What''s the matter with you humans? Isn''t it very common for fiendish demons to kill cultivators? Why have you come to ask me time and time again for the past hundred years? Some even deliberately come to me for Bai Junchen''s corpse. Since it was I who killed him, he has naturally been reduced to dust!"


    Qin Yun nodded. "I''m not asking for Bai Junchen''s corpse. You killed him and all his possessions fell into your hand. Did you obtain a Dharma treasure of Bai Junchen¡¯s known as the Moon Bamboo Flute?"


    "The Bai family have bought Bai Junchen''s Heavy Mountain Seal from me in the past. That was his Dharma treasure, so why would you want the Moon Bamboo Flute?" asked Curmudgeon Blacktide angrily.


    "The Heavy Mountain Seal is a Dharma treasure for ranged attacks. Losing that does not necessarily mean that he''s dead." Qin Yun asked, "I am willing to exchange his Intrinsic Talisman Amulet or the Moon Bamboo Flute for treasures."


    "Neither are left. Those were already damaged and I threw them out," said Curmudgeon Blacktide.


    "Nothing is left?" Qin Yun frowned.


    Dharma treasures were not that easily destroyed.


    "I did not hold back during that battle. I whipped him to death and ended up destroying the Moon Bamboo Flute, the Intrinsic Talisman Amulet, and other things. With all of them broken, I threw them away," said Curmudgeon Blacktide. "Alright, I have entertained you long enough. If there''s nothing else, I''m leaving."


    "You can''t produce anything? Not the Moon Bamboo Flute, the Intrinsic Talisman Amulet, the Dharma treasure robe, or any other personal items?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "Hmph, is there a need for me to lie about killing a cultivator? Fine, if you think I didn''t do it, go ahead and think that way. Go seek out other murderers," said Curmudgeon Blacktide. The surrounding array formation suddenly activated with a rumble. Water surged over and shielded the Blacktide Chasm. Following that, Curmudgeon Blacktide turned and flew deep into the Blacktide Chasm.


    Qin Yun shouted, "Hold on."


    However, Curmudgeon Blacktide did not even turn back as he flew down into Blacktide Chasm.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned as he waved his hand.


    A misty sword beam, accompanied by dozens of sword flashes, instantly penetrated the array formation in front of him. However, the flying sword seemed to enter a quagmire that impeded it greatly. The dozens of sword flashes dissipated totally while the Intrinsic Flying Sword flew a short distance within, scaring the distant Water race demons into fleeing to the deep depths of the chasm.


    "Quick hide! That cultivator is too powerful!"


    "That flying sword is terrifying."


    "What a powerful sword immortal."


    The lesser demons wailed.


    Qin Yun could not be bothered with them. All he did was to probe the array formation''s strength.


    "In the sea, my flying sword''s strength is reduced in by thirty percent! And inside the array formation, my flying sword''s strength is halved again." Qin Yun shook his head secretly. "This Curmudgeon Blacktide approaches the Paramount realm in the water. His body is also extremely powerful. If he is bent on hiding in the array formation, I really can''t do a thing to him."


    "Although him not being able to produce any of the personal items is odd, there''s no reason for him to lie." Qin Yun shook his head gently before turning to leave.


    ¡­


    Deep in the Blacktide Chasm, there was an underwater residence.


    Whoosh.


    Curmudgeon Blacktide took human form and walked into the underwater residence. Along the way, many demonesses greeted him obsequiously.


    "Patriarch."


    "Patriarch, you are back."


    "All of you are dismissed." Curmudgeon Blacktide waved his hand and entered a private chamber alone.


    In the private chamber, Curmudgeon Blacktide looked respectfully ahead. A phantom image had appeared in front of him, one of a man with blood-colored hair. He had patterns on his face and although he was male, his coquettish look made him a lot more alluring than many women.


    "Fiendcelestial," greeted Curmudgeon Blacktide politely.


    "What is the matter?" The strange blood-haired man asked with a frown.


    "You instructed me to proclaim that I killed Bai Junchen. The humans have never given up on the matter. Just today, Sword Immortal Qin Yun from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance came to me and asked about him. He also wanted me to hand over the Moon Bamboo Flute, the Intrinsic Talisman Amulet, and other items of Bai Junchen¡¯s. All I could say was that I had destroyed them during the battle and later threw them away," said Curmudgeon Blacktide respectfully.


    The blood-haired man frowned slightly. "Oh? Qin Yun from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance?"


    "I suspect it''s that Bai Junyue again," said Curmudgeon Blacktide immediately. "She has never given up all this while. She has been using all sorts of means to investigate Bai Junchen''s outcome for the past hundred years."


    "Bai Junyue¡­ sure is an infatuated woman." The man nodded. "Alright, the matter regarding Bai Junchen involves some secrets. You just need to proceed as I have instructed. Ignore everything else."


    "Yes," Curmudgeon Blacktide answered respectfully.


    ******


    Above the sky in the West Sea, Qin Yun was flying on a cloud. He was reporting to Bai Junyue.


    "Curmudgeon Blacktide is hiding in his lair and there are array formations protecting him. I can''t do a thing to him if he doesn''t come out," said Qin Yun.


    "He could not produce the Moon Bamboo Flute, the Intrinsic Talisman Amulet, Dharma treasure robe, or any personal items?" asked Bai Junyue immediately.


    "He said that all of them were damaged or destroyed in the battle," said Qin Yun.


    Bai Junyue looked excited. "All of them were damaged? How can it be that coincidental? My brother must be alive. He''s definitely alive. I can sense that he is located somewhere in this world but he has no way to tell me."


    "That''s all I can do," said Qin Yun.


    "I''m already very grateful. If it were anyone weak, Curmudgeon Blacktide would have killed them instantly. He wouldn''t even be bothered with people that are his equal. He was only willing to tell you that much because he''s afraid of you," said Bai Junyue.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Both parties quickly ended the communication.


    Not long later.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token, it projected an image of Patriarch Yi.


    "Senior," greeted Qin Yun.


    "I have to thank you for saving the members of my Yi family," said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "Also, congratulations on finding another array formation entrance to the Ancient Skydragon Palace."


    Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    "Don''t worry. I guessed it but I won¡¯t spread the news," said Patriarch Yi. "If you were wicked and merciless, you might have killed Yi Fenglai and Yi Fengqi to keep the secret."


    "I abhor the thought of doing something like that," said Qin Yun.


    "I''ll remember this favor." Patriarch Yi added, "If you discover any treasures in the Ancient Skydragon Palace such as the Skydragon Blood Crystal, do not sell it easily to the Four Seas Dragon race. You tell me ahead of time and I can try to exchange for more benefits for you! Eeven one Skydragon Blood Crystal can make the old fogies of the Four Seas Dragon race go crazy."


    Qin Yun obviously knew.


    For a Skydragon Blood Crystal, the West Sea Dragon race was willing to ignore the Dragon race''s rules and make an exception to release Ao Xue. That proved how attractive a Skydragon Blood Crystal was.


    As the saying goes, nothing can be accomplished without norms or standards! Mortals had laws! Cultivators were bound by the regulations of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. The Dragon race had their clan rules! Even the maneuvering of the Heavenly Dao had its rules! Once the rules were set, violation required punishment. And to make an exception? That was very, very difficult.


    "Senior, how powerful was the ancient Skydragon?" Qin Yun was curious. He wondered at it because after the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, which was on par with the ancient Skydragon, died, just the fiendmonsters its arm produced were terrifying.


    "Just know that he''s stronger than me," said Patriarch Yi with a laugh. "Also, although I''ll keep it a secret for you, the Divine Firmament Chapter will probably guess from the fact that both of them returned alive. Perhaps, Connate Golden Core realm cultivators will be sent there soon."


    "Help me tell them," said Qin Yun. "If they want to enter, even existences at the Paramount realm might lose their lives."


    "What!?" Patriarch Yi was stunned.

 207 Three Years

    Chapter 207: Three Years


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "A new entrance would naturally hold unexpected dangers." Qin Yun did not further elaborate.


    Even his Cyclic Sword Flash could only last a moment before cracking under the assault of hundreds of fiendmonsters. He had to use several flying swords to continuously cast Cyclic Sword Flash so that he could escape with his life. Furthermore, the Sword Intent Paramount realm he had grasped was intrinsically defensive, yet it still could not withstand the assault! If other existences at the Paramount realm were weaker than him when it came to defense, they could very likely lose their lives if they were surrounded by the fiendmonsters.


    "Alright, I will remind them of that if they decide to barge in." Patriarch Yi said with a solemn nod. The Divine Firmament Chapter only had one person in the Paramount realm at present.


    ¡­


    Following that, Qin Yun went to the other twelve entrances of the Ancient Skydragon Palace but the result was as he had expected. The Four Seas Dragon race had explored the area for six thousand years. Even existences that had stepped into the Dao had gone in before, so how could Qin Yun expect to find anything of worth? There wasn''t even a broken Dharma treasure. Every entrance had been wiped clean.


    After that, Qin Yun returned to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance and began leading a relatively peaceful life of cultivation.


    ******


    Time passed quickly and, in a blink of an eye, three years had passed.


    March, Lu Prefecture. Above Mystic Port Island.


    Qin Yun was riding a cloud, overlooking the island from a good distance away. Two sword beams were dazzling beside him like two swimming dragons. The beams were formed of ten streams of sword flashes. The two sword beams inundated Mystic Port Island beneath him.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The array formation of the island resonated before it exploded apart. The blast left many of the lesser demons inside the array formation horrified.


    "Escape!"


    "Quick, run!" All the lesser demons fled in panic. Some charged straight out of Mystic Port Island and jumped into the lake. There were other lesser demons that were caught up in the blast, and they died right on the spot.


    An angry bellow was heard from Mystic Port Island that seemed to quake the heavens. "Sword Immortal Qin, don''t you humans have a saying: ¡®Take not a musket to kill a butterfly?¡¯ You are a famous Paramount realm sword immortal. Is there a need for you to attack a Connate True Core realm demon like me? Also, I live here in the Lu Prefecture. You traveled 5000 kilometers from the Jiang Prefecture just to deal with me?"


    "Half a month ago, you destroyed nine villages and killed tens of thousands of humans to cultivate your demonic arts. Did you think no one could touch you because of your powerful array formation on Mystic Port Island?" Qin Yun''s voice boomed. "If you had coexisted peacefully with humans, I would naturally leave you alone. But you have killed humans without any regard, so I, Qin Yun, will definitely kill you. There''s no way for you to escape today."


    With the array formations exploding in succession, the old demon that hid on the island finally gritted his teeth before transforming into a black wind to flee in panic.


    "You won''t escape! Die!" Qin Yun shouted coldly.


    The two sword beams that had broken the array formations caught up to him in a blink of an eye. They easily ground the black wind as an old man with a protruding mouth and chin that resembled those of an ape appeared in the black wind. His face was covered in black fur and the hideous expression on it was one of panic. However, the difference in strength was too great. He died without even putting up a resistance. He transformed back into his true form and plummeted. It was a stag that had turned into a demon.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Two sword beams rapidly flew back to Qin Yun, who grabbed them before putting them away.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you have eliminated a scourge of our Vapor Sun County." Two cultivators flew over from a distance. They were extremely excited as they bowed politely.


    "We have fought with this old demon for more than a century but have always failed to destroy him. We were furious and helpless watching him wreak havoc on the villagers. We are very thankful that you were willing to help."


    "Millions of my Vapor Sun County''s citizens are grateful to you, Sword Immortal Qin."


    The duo was very excited.


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "It''s not a big deal. The great demon has been slain. I''ll leave the rest to you."


    "Compared to killing a great demon, these trifling matters are a lot simpler to deal with."


    "We are glad to pursue these lesser demons. Many of them have Dharma artifacts and silver," said the duo.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Sou!


    Following that, he transformed into a beam that streaked across the sky, heading south for the Jiang Prefecture.


    The duo looked up and watched from afar.


    "What a peerless sword immortal. Sword Immortal Qin is really worthy of being deemed the best sword immortal of the present era. If all the top cultivators in the world abhorred evil in such a manner, it would be a blessing for the people."


    "The more powerful a cultivator, they more scruples they have. This is why I''m increasingly impressed with Sword Immortal Qin. With his sword, he dominates the nineteen prefectures, making all fiendish demons prostrate before him." The two cultivators marveled.


    There was no one in the world that didn''t know.


    Sword Immortal Qin Yun from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance abhorred evil. Anytime he knew of a fiendish demon wreaking havoc, even if it were a fiendish demon at the Connate False Core or True Core realm, Qin Yun had no qualms about ''bullying the weak.'' He would rush to their location to slay them! Over the past three years, apart from cultivating, Qin Yun would frequently embark on such endeavors. He brought happiness to the people, and numerous commoners built ceremonial plaques on their altars as a way to show their gratitude towards him.


    Many ordinary cultivators admired Sword Immortal Qin greatly too.


    Although there were two Paramount realm sword immortals at present, one being Qin Yun and the other being Sword Tower''s Cui Lianfeng, all the ordinary cultivators in the world respected Qin Yun more!


    "All of them have scruples for various reasons but can''t they see that countless humans are suffering?" Qin Yun was flying amid a blinding sword beam.


    He lived in a village when he was young. He had seen the way fiendish demons brought immense misery onto humans. Now, all he needed to do was make a quick trip to slay a powerful fiendish demon and he could end the suffering the of the land¡¯s commoners. He was naturally willing to do so!


    There were other Connate Golden Core cultivators that abhorred evil; however, fiendish demons that dared to entrench themselves in an area would typically have extremely powerful life-preservation abilities. Even Connate Golden Core cultivators could not kill them.


    Perhaps an existence at the Paramount realm could accomplish that! But there were too few people at the Paramount realm. Most of them were busy attempting to step into the Dao for immortality.


    Also, ''bullying the weak'' could be done but the fiendish demons had existences at the Paramount realm too! After the weak were bullied, the Paramount realm great fiendish demons would likely seek revenge on humans! Humans at the Paramount realm mostly came from large clans. They viewed mortal commoners like they viewed ants. They were more concerned about their own benefits and their longevity. Some had too many scruples and some did not wish to make too many enemies.


    But Qin Yun remained unyielding!


    Those that wreaked havoc had to be killed without question! As a result, the great fiendish demons of the world were in a dilemma as well. Over the past three years, there were Paramount realm great fiendish demons that tried to deal with Qin Yun but no one could do a thing against Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Unfortunately, there are just so many fiendish demons that I can''t solve the problem." Qin Yun shook his head. "For example, demons like Nine Mountain Island Lord and Matron Centaurea. Even if I fought them one-on-one, it would be difficult for me to kill them. And those with strong life-preservation means and those that hide in their lairs are particularly hard to deal with."


    "Over the past three years, I have killed some powerful fiendish demons. Others that have a good information network would immediately flee to pledge allegiance under great fiendish demons."


    "To truly get rid of those great fiendish demons, I will have to wait till I step into the Dao."


    If he could step into the Dao, Qin Yun would definitely be able to take out the entrenched great fiendish demons in many parts of the world. He did not care if he had many enemies. As long as the children of the world could be spared from the misery he felt back in his childhood, and countless young girls were not eaten like his sister, Qin Yun felt that it would be worth it. Qin Yun felt that, compared to those cultivators that disregarded their lives to withstand the demon horde at the northern borders, what he did was very ordinary.


    ¡­


    "Swoosh."


    Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor. A beam plummeted straight into Qin Manor.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao hurriedly came to him. She had already entered the Connate True Core realm.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun immediately smiled when he landed.


    "Did you rid the great demon from Mystic Port Island?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yea, my sword has slain many fiendish demons but I never expected him to dare wreak havoc," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao said with a smile, "That great demon at Mystic Port Island is just an itinerant fiendish demon, and doesn''t hail from the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons; therefore, he did not receive any warnings about you. Furthermore, a cultivation seclusion can last a year or two, so he probably did not hear of your modus operandi¡­ Brother Yun, you began to wipe out fiends three years ago. In a few more years, probably all the great fiendish demons in the world will know about the way you handle things. In that case, it will only invite trouble on our Qin family."


    "I''ll be alive for five hundred years. Those great fiendish demons would not dare to provoke me," said Qin Yun. "It''s already considered a long time if a family clan can thrive for five centuries. As for what happens after five hundred years, I''ll do my best to put precautions in place. Besides, it might even be possible for me to create a formulation to condense an Essence Soul."


    "Definitely." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "By the way, I plan on entering seclusion in a few days," said Qin Yun.


    "Seclusion?" Yi Xiao was astounded. "Brother Yun, do you plan on¡­"


    Qin Yun nodded. "I have already made the sufficient preparations. It''s about time to break through into the Connate Golden Core realm."


    After coming out of Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, he had a large number of treasures. He naturally made it a point to furnish the Qin family''s cultivation chambers to be excellent. There were many array formations that gathered the world''s spiritual energies. Cultivating in the chamber was a lot faster! The reason why Yi Xiao was already at the Connate True Core realm was also partially due to this. Of course, it was also because she had grasped the implications of the Heavenly Dao.


    Qin Yun, for instance, even though he had the chamber''s array formations helping him, he would have taken a decade to reach the Connate Golden Core if he were only at the sword intent domain level!


    But now, he was at the Paramount realm. Be it the cultivation of his flying sword or the pure sword immortal Quintessential Essence, it went a lot faster. After three years, it was about time to make the breakthrough.

 208 Forming the Golden Core Final Chapter of Volume

    The sun shone gaily in March. It was also the period when green leaves grew once again as pinkish-red flowers revealed their vibrancy.


    Beside the mirror lake, Qin Yun was sitting on the ground. He could smell the fragrance of the grass as well as the cherry blossoms that were floating over. Inside the clear lake, he could see fish swimming.


    He watched the world around him and took in the sights of nature.


    Qin Yun had been sitting by the lake for several days.


    "The breakthrough should happen today." Qin Yun felt that his soul and mind were in complete harmony with absolute clarity. He got up immediately and walked towards a seclusion chamber.


    In the yard where the chamber was, Yi Xiao was preparing tea.


    "My wife, prepare some good food and wine tonight," said Qin Yun as he walked into the yard.


    "Alright, I''ll cook for you personally, my husband. I''ll go now to buy all the ingredients for a table full of delicacies." Yi Xiao stood up.


    "Sorry for troubling you, my wife."


    Qin Yun smiled as he walked into the seclusion chamber.


    Yi Xiao watched the chamber door close before she turned solemn. She muttered to herself, "The final barrier for a sword immortal is the Golden Core. As of now, Brother Yun grasps two Paramount realms and has immense accumulations. He will definitely form the Golden Core. I just wonder what stage the Golden Core he forms will be."


    Just like the False Core, there were different grades.


    Golden Cores also had strength of varying levels. Reaching the Golden Core was the limit of the sword immortal lineage! Therefore, whatever Golden Core was formed would be Qin Yun''s limit. As for the idea that he might create a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul himself? That was too distant! Since ancient times, many sword immortals who stepped into the Dao, such as Elder Sword, had attempted to create Dharmic formulations but all of them failed. As such, they never lived longer than five hundred years, eventually returning to dust.


    The Golden Core realm was the absolute limit a sword immortal could attain. And now, Qin Yun would be reaching that limit.


    ******


    In the chamber.


    The fragrance of incense emanated throughout the chamber. There were emerald-green crystals, each the size of a fist, hanging from the ceiling of the chamber. All of them were valuable Jade Water Core Stones. They had abstruse runic patterns engraved on them. They were also a part of chamber''s array formations. They would pull in the world''s spiritual energies constantly, enriching the chamber with worldly spiritual energies. Even mortals who lived in such an environment for prolonged periods of time could live past a hundred years old.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat as he gently breathed out and closed his eyes.


    There was no need for him to calm his mind. He had purged his mind and soul while beside the mirror lake for the past few days. He was in optimal condition.


    He studied his dantian.


    There was a whitish-gold True Core and a Sword Ball inside his dantian. His Intrinsic Flying Sword had undergone a long period of cultivation and nourishment. With all the treasures he had amassed, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had already reached the second-grade two years ago. A second-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword could produce strength at the level of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    As for the whitish-gold True Core, its diameter was nine times that of the Sword Ball''s. It contained massive sword immortal Quintessential Essence. Although it was only a True Core, the immensity and quality of the Dharmic powers were approaching that of an ordinary Golden Core.


    "Up!"


    He commanded with his mind.


    The whitish-gold True Core appeared to be solid but, if it were greatly magnified, one could see that there were countless thread-like Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers weaved together in layers. As it obeyed Qin Yun''s thought, the countless threads of Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers began to experience a miraculous change. From inside the True Core, half of the Dharmic powers used the Paramount realm of defense as its center. The other half used the Paramount realm of decimation as its center. Instantly, tens of millions of sword beams interlocked as they began to automatically spin outwards.


    As they spiraled outwards, they began to compress and twist together, forming something more corporeal and pure.


    Phew! Phew!


    In just a few seconds, the whitish-gold True Core spun and disintegrated! It split into two massive blobs of Dharmic power.


    The two powerful Dharmic powers were like two fishes pursuing each other in a spiraling fashion.


    Logically speaking, a Connate True Core that contained immense Dharmic powers could blow Qin Yun to smithereens if it exploded completely! However, the promotion from the True Core to the Golden Core was mystical. By letting the True Core enter the dual modes of Yin and Yang, they were in a compact balance that did not explode despite containing immense powers.


    But as the countless sword beams compressed and interlocked to become purer, his Quintessential Essence also underwent a qualitative change. Therefore, there was no turning back.


    It needed to be condensed into a Golden Core.


    He might even lose his life if he failed to form the Golden Core. Qin Yun''s realm was high so he naturally wouldn''t fail but he also sought the limit of the Golden Core. He wanted to form a superior-grade Golden Core.


    "The dual modes of Yin and Yang. Yin represents defense while Yang represents decimation."


    "A single entity with two sides, condense!"


    Qin Yun did not hesitate at all.


    Three years ago, his Misty Rain Sword Intent had reached the Paramount realm. He realized that he needed to pursue the core ideal of defense. But when he dealt with the fiendish demons of the nineteen prefectures, Qin Yun felt that his flying sword art''s strength was lacking. Compared to Cui Lianfeng, who was also a Paramount realm sword immortal, and aside from Samsara which could achieve Infinite Converging Sword at the expense of burdening his soul, his moves were inferior.


    A sword immortal could destroy all Dharma with a single sword. They were well known for decimating their foes but back when he fought the Paramount realm great fiendish demons, he found himself lacking in the offense department.


    Over the past three years of cultivating, Qin Yun''s insight grew deeper and he was more assured in his beliefs.


    "A truly perfect Sword Dao naturally separates into Yin and Yang. It can''t just be defense alone, there is a need for decimation as well."


    "Only with the two combined will it be perfect."


    With this realization, Qin Yun traveled the world to kill fiendish demons for the past three years. He was unfazed by the threat of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. He remained unyielding and, powered with this Dao heart, Qin Yun gradually gained insight into a second Paramount realm of decimation for his Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    With decimation, the Misty Rain Sword Intent was closer to perfection.


    "Phew¡­Phew¡­"


    The two immensely powerful Dharmic powers spun under the two completely different Paramount realms'' guidance. These two Paramount realms were simply two sides of the same Misty Rain Sword Intent.


    Like the Yin and Yang fishes, they pursued each other, slowly¡­


    As the two Yin-Yang fishes gradually shrank, a point of light was finally born in the middle of them. It was as though it was the first light of the Universe''s birth.


    Time seemed to turn still at that instant.


    "Boom." Following that, the two Yin-Yang fishes rapidly spun as they continued their pursuit, transforming into a beam of light. Both of them rapidly contracted as the point of light gradually turned into a blinding flash. Slowly, the light converged on itself, revealing its true form.


    There was a very tiny Golden Core.


    It represented a form of perfection, the perfection of Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers.


    The Golden Core was not golden in color as foretold in legends. Instead, it was deep purple-gold that suffused purple light. It was noble and pretty. Its existence was naturally imbued with the magnificence of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Golden Core, with purple gold as an extremum." Qin Yun felt overjoyed.


    "I condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core?"


    Qin Yun was full of excitement and joy.


    His foundations were indeed robust. He had attained the Connate False Core after grasping sword intent. His Connate False Core was a lot stronger than that of his peers. Later on, he condensed a Connate True Core with the sword intent domain. At the Connate True Core, he was approaching the power of an ordinary Connate Golden Core. Therefore, with the Sword Intent Paramount realm¡­ Qin Yun believed that the Golden Core he formed would be of a rather high grade.


    However, a purplish-gold Golden Core was legendary.


    Daoists had a saying¡ªGolden Core, with purple gold as an extremum. It meant that the formation of a Golden Core with a purplish-gold Golden Core was perfection. It could not be any better and in such a realm, the purity of the Golden Core Dharmic powers could match that of Essence Soul immortals.


    "There have been other cases in history of those who had first gained insight into the Paramount realm before forming the Golden Core. However, those with a purplish-gold Golden Core are even fewer," thought Qin Yun. "I can attain it, firstly, because my False Core and True Core had robust foundations. Secondly, the fact that I relied on two Sword Intent Paramount realms to form the Golden Core with the dual modes of Yin and Yang played a part."


    Regardless, he had attained a purplish-gold Golden Core! Qin Yun was quite happy. After all, he had attained the Golden Core extremum as spoken in legends.


    "However, the Sword Immortal Legacy has also reached an end," said Qin Yun silently. As he absorbed the world''s spiritual energies, he constantly enlarged the purplish-gold Golden Core. At the same time, he knew that with his great improvement in strength, his Dharmic powers had reached their limit.


    To make another improvement?


    To condense an Essence Soul to become immortal and have everlasting youth? The path was destined to be fraught with difficulties. Could he accomplish it within five hundred years? Although Qin Yun was filled with fighting spirit, he truly did not have much confidence.


    ¡­


    After ten hours, his purplish-gold Golden Core absorbed sufficient spiritual energy from the world. It reached the limit of what his dantian could withstand. In size, it was only slightly bigger than his Intrinsic Sword Ball.


    In terms of Golden Core Dharmic powers, Qin Yun probably stood atop the current generation! His attainment of the purplish-gold Golden Core had even caused a qualitative change that allowed him to match the Dharmic powers of immortals of fiendcelestials.


    "Creak."


    The chamber''s door opened.


    Qin Yun walked out the chamber. In the yard, Yi Xiao was waiting by a table in a daze. When she heard the door creak open, she immediately stood up.


    At that moment, the moon was hanging above them. Stars could be barely seen as Qin Yun looked at his wife with a smile.


    "Brother Yun, how was it?" asked Yi Xiao immediately.


    Qin Yun walked to the table and looked at the myriad of dishes laid out on it. When Yi Xiao saw this, she waved her hand to undo her Dharma spell. The dishes were as warm as when they were fresh.


    "It smells great." Qin Yun took a deep breath.


    "I''m asking you, how''s the Golden Core formation?" asked Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Golden Core, with purple gold as an extremum." Qin Yun said as he picked up a wine flask to fill the cups. "Come on, let''s eat and drink."


    "Purplish-gold Golden Core?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "Yea. This Lion''s Head is great. It''s firm and chewy." Qin Yun said after biting off a Lion''s Head meatball. "My wife, your cooking has improved."


    "I''m talking to you about the purplish-gold Golden Core but you¡¯re talking about meatballs." Yi Xiao felt helpless.


    "Haha, what''s wrong with the meatball?"


    Under the night sky, the couple ate and chatted in the yard.


    That night, almost no one in the world knew that a cultivator with a purplish-gold Golden Core had appeared.


    (End of Volume)

 209 Skydragon Blood Crystal

    Chapter 209: Skydragon Blood Crystal


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After reaching the Connate Golden Core realm and condensing the legendary purplish-gold Golden Core, Qin Yun spent most of his time over the following days practicing various flying sword arts on the mirror lake.


    Soon, it was the 29th of March.


    "Haha¡­" Qin Yun stood above the lake''s waters and retrieved his flying sword. "Back when I comprehended the second Paramount realm of my Misty Rain Sword Intent, decimation, it was to make my flying sword art more perfect and balanced. The defensive enhancement against enemies was negligible but the offensive aspect was greatly improved. My Intrinsic Flying Sword went from the third-grade to the second-grade. Its strength increased by about sixty to seventy percent."


    "However, none of that could be considered a qualitative change," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Now, having formed the purplish-gold Golden Core, my strength has truly undergone a qualitative change."


    Previously, Qin Yun''s flying sword was barely a mosquito bite on those with extremely powerful bodies, such as Patriarch Crocdragon.


    But in fact, Buddhist and Daoist cultivation held an advantage over other schools of thought. Their advantage stemmed from the Intrinsic Dharma Treasure or Intrinsic Talisman Amulet! This was different from the imperial government''s Godfiend lineage, which cultivated the body, or the fiendcelestial lineage, the demonic cultivation, and the Water race''s cultivation¡­ none of them had an Intrinsic Dharma Treasure. Between mighty figures at the same Paramount realm, one side would have an Intrinsic Dharma Treasure. A second-grade Intrinsic Dharma Treasure could produce strength equalling that of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    As for other Paramount realm experts, they were in a good place if they could obtain a first-grade Dharma treasure. As such, they were the weaker ones when it came to the Dharma treasures.


    Consider the Primordial Chaos Sect which followed the Physical Establishing Sage. Although it did not have Intrinsic Dharma Treasures, the bodies of its disciples were equivalent to one! Their bodies'' strength was superior to the Godfiend, Fiendcelestial, Dragon race and other lineages. They had the strongest bodies in the world.


    As a sword immortal that could destroy all Dharma with a single sword, Qin Yun was at the same level as the others at the Paramount realm.


    "But now, the Golden Core Dharma powered by my purplish-gold Golden Core matches the Dharmic powers of an immortal of fiendcelestial! Powered by such Dharmic powers, the same flying sword art would reach a whole new level of strength. Even strength, my weakest trait, is now much higher than Patriarch Crocdragon¡¯s." Qin Yun gasped in surprise. "My strength can probably now match typical existences that have stepped into the Dao."


    Many of the existences that had stepped into the Dao did not have purplish-gold Golden Cores.


    The advantage of a Golden Core''s Dharmic powers could perhaps make up for the difference in their understanding of the Dao.


    Of course¡ª


    It also depended on what Dao one had stepped into!


    For example, the Dao Elder Sword comprehended had once defeated many immortals and fiendcelestials. He had even slain a fiendcelestial before. Such an existence that had stepped into the Dao was horrifying.


    "Swoosh."


    As he strode across the lake''s waters, he reached the bank where the garden was. His wife, Yi Xiao, was drawing a talisman serenely in the idyllic garden.


    "Xiaoxiao, I''ll be going out. I will probably be gone a day or two," said Qin Yun.


    "I was drawing a talisman but you startled me by suddenly speaking. Now my talisman is ruined. Alright, alright. What did you say? Are you going out? Come back quickly." Yi Xiao helplessly threw the ruined talisman paper into a bamboo wastebasket beside her.


    Qin Yun had often left to rid the world of evil over the past three years. Yi Xiao was already accustomed to it.


    "It''s my fault. Sorry." Qin Yun smiled as he transformed into a beam of light and streaked across the sky towards the west.


    Yi Xiao looked up before smiling. She lowered her head to continue drawing her talisman.


    After Qin Yun condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core, Yi Xiao felt increasingly more at ease. There were two existences that had stepped into the Dao other than the immortals and fiendcelestials. One of them was a human at Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery and the other was a fiendish demon. However, both of them were on extended seclusion in a bid to attain immortality. Besides, their Dao¡­ was something that Qin Yun could match with his present strength, much less preserve his life against.


    After all, existences that had stepped into the Dao had strength a grade lower than the true immortals and fiendcelestials. As immortals and fiendcelestials had long stepped into the Dao and had cultivated for longer, their Dharmic powers were even stronger.


    There were a few existences that could match immortals and fiendcelestials after stepping into the Dao.


    As for defeating immortals and even killing them? That was extremely rare. Very few sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao could achieve that. Of course, Elder Sword was at that level.


    ******


    Boom!


    A beam of light tore through the sky as it headed for the West Sea.


    "My strength has improved drastically. It''s time to enter the Ancient Skydragon Palace again. If I can succeed, I''ll obtain the Skydragon Blood Crystals and can tell Xiaoxiao the truth," thought Qin Yun.


    If he could not obtain the Skydragon Blood Crystals, he could not save his mother-in-law. Qin Yun would then have to continue hiding the truth from his wife.


    Whoosh.


    He flew extremely fast, much faster than in the past. After he entered the West Sea, it did not take long for him to enter the vicinity of the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    He charged straight to the seabed and followed the path he was familiar with to the entrance of the array formation he had found back then.


    "This array formation entrance has not been discovered by others," thought Qin Yun. "The Divine Firmament Chapter must have trusted my warning, so no one has been sent."


    The Divine Firmament Chapter had also realized that Qin Yun could have silenced Yi Fenglai and Yi Fengqi to ensure the array formation entrance stayed a secret. However, he did not do so. Clearly, Qin Yun had a pride in him that made him abhor the thought of doing something so despicable. The Divine Firmament Chapter also believed that Qin Yun''s warning was likely genuine. Besides, the only Paramount realm existence in the Divine Firmament Chapter was busying himself with stepping into the Dao.


    To him, obtaining the Skydragon Blood Crystal was meaningless. As the only Paramount realm of the Divine Firmament Chapter''s present generation, he had no lack of treasures. Why should he take the risk?


    ¡­


    Qin Yun entered the Ancient Skydragon Palace and was still familiar with the area. However, he still released his sword intent domain and used it to probe carefully as he headed straight for the ruined hall.


    "Oh?"


    When he saw the golden door ahead of him, there was a black-scaled monster clinging to the wall above the door.


    "Fiendmonster." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Shoo!


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword instantly flew out from his fingertip. Although more than a hundred sword flashes were generated, they fused with the Intrinsic Flying Sword entirely, transforming into a sword beam that resembled a swimming dragon! The more sword flashes the Sword Flash Dissociation produced, the more powerful it was. However, if all the sword flashes converged into one, the offensive might could be further enhanced.


    After Qin Yun comprehended the second Paramount realm of decimation, he was capable of doing this.


    "Kill." The fiendmonster opened its eyes and immediately pounced toward Qin Yun.


    "Boom!"


    The swimming dragon-like beam was unassailable as it brushed past the fiendmonster, pulverizing it to pieces. It died right on the spot.


    Qin Yun took a few huge strides and walked through the golden door into the passage. He instantly saw another fiendmonster clinging to the wall of the passage. Far inside the ruined hall, there were more than ten fiendmonsters. They were either prostrating above shattered rocks or collapsed columns. They were motionless but, once he entered, all of them had opened their eyes and turned their heads towards him.


    Qin Yun''s gaze swept across the treasures in the ruined hall.


    The pool of red-colored blood that suffused golden light continued emitting a suppressive might. The five fingertip-sized blood crystals remained. The 390-foot-long gigantic arm that was covered with red scales was equally terrifying in strength. It even produced a domain! Qin Yun''s sword intent domain was repressed, as it was the last time.


    A black mist began rising from the gigantic arm and instantly, hundreds of fiendmonsters materialized.


    "Very good. All the treasures are still here." Qin Yun showed no fear.


    "Time to take action."


    Qin Yun instantly attacked. The swimming dragon-like sword beam flew out and headed straight for the pool of blood.


    "Roar! Roar!"


    "Kill!"


    These fiendmonsters had low intelligence but they were terrifying when in a frenzy. They crawled out from crevices and many of them tried to block the blinding sword flash. Three fiendmonster leaders tried to hinder Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Bam!" The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew around unpredictably like a swimming dragon. It was unfathomable as it easily dodged the fiendmonsters. Only the fiendmonster leaders were able to have any effect on it. After one of the leaders was killed, the flying sword''s momentum decreased drastically. The other two fiendmonster leaders rapidly came to put up a struggle. Furthermore, another fiendmonster leader materialized from the mist that arose from the gigantic arm.


    With time, more flying swords surrounded the pool of blood. With more than a hundred fiendmonsters surrounding the pool, they made it difficult for the flying sword to dodge.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    On the other side, more than three hundred fiendmonsters had surrounded Qin Yun.


    The Seven Kills Sword cast Cyclic Sword Flash as it circled around Qin Yun. Now, Qin Yun could control the Seven Kills Sword easily with his Golden Core Dharmic powers. It was as though he was an adult brandishing a wooden stick. It put no pressure on him and the expenditure of Dharmic powers was very low.


    "Return." Qin Yun ordered the Intrinsic Flying Sword to fly back to him.


    "Haha, my Dharmic powers have increased greatly. Three hundred fiendmonsters are unable to crack my Cyclic Sword Flash." Qin Yun was overjoyed.


    "Roar! Roar! Roar!"


    More fiendmonsters swarmed over.


    The fiendmonsters could change in size. At that moment, they rapidly shrunk, allowing more fiendmonsters to surround Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. When more than six hundred fiendmonsters surrounded it, the Cyclic Sword Flash began to quake.


    "That''s the limit. I can''t hold on any longer." With a thought, the Intrinsic Flying Sword cast another Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. The Seven Kills Sword was put away.


    Hum!


    The Cyclic Sword Flash barrier cast by the Intrinsic Flying Sword was a lot stronger. Even when Qin Yun deliberately expanded the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, the fiendmonster horde still failed to crack it.


    "Great, my Cyclic Sword Flash can currently withstand immortals and fiendcelestials at the moment." Qin Yun rejoiced. With more than six hundred fiendmonsters attacking the barrier, he forcibly walked straight towards the blood pool. With a wave of his hand, five sword beams flew out. They were extremely gentle as they lifted up the five blood crystals in the pool.


    Qin Yun held a bottle in hand as he opened the stopper. "Store."


    The five Skydragon Blood Crystals flew into the bottle under the guidance of the sword beam.


    "I have the Skydragon Blood Crystals in hand. When I''m out, I can tell Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun placed the stopper back on the bottle and was delighted. Following that, he looked at the large pool of blood that was suffusing golden light. "This blood must be the ancient Skydragon''s blood. After so long, it still contains infinite vibrancy. Well, I should take some of that too."

 210 Dharma treasure Cosmic Bangle

    Chapter 210: Dharma treasure Cosmic Bangle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun took out another bottle and filled it with the gold-suffusing blood.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The six hundred plus fiendmonsters continued their attacks, and Qin Yun could hear their angry roars as they threw themselves at his Cyclic Sword flash barrier. But with his present Dharmic powers, the Cyclic Sword Flash cast from his Intrinsic Flying Sword was not something these fiendmonsters could crack.


    "Next, it will be this." Qin Yun walked to the gigantic arm beside him. The fiendmonsters tried frenetically to stop him but to no avail.


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Boom!


    The Cyclic Sword Flash barrier expanded to cover a range of five hundred feet, enveloping the entire red-scaled arm. The fiendmonsters were repelled and blocked by the barrier. Although they were furious, none of them could enter. At Qin Yun''s new realm, the Cyclic Sword Flash could still maintain its peak power in a three thousand feet range.


    "It died in battle during ancient times; yet, it can still naturally generate such a domain. The remnant aura forms fiendmonsters that match great fiendish demons. This strength sure is terrifying." Qin Yun marveled at the gigantic arm in front of him. Each scale and every fingernail blade left him shuddering.


    "I''ll take these Dharma treasures first." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Immediately, three streams of Golden Core Dharmic powers flew towards the three black bangles on the gigantic arm. They were worn on the wrist and had a diameter of about sixty feet. The aura they exuded was deep and profound. The bangles resembled a dehydrated traveler on a desert road or a dried-up river bed when Qin Yun''s Golden Core Dharmic powers were injected into them. They sucked up Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers ravenously.


    Dharma treasures also required the nourishment of Dharmic powers.


    Hum!


    The three black bangles were ownerless Dharma treasures. As they absorbed Qin Yun''s Golden Core Dharmic powers, they were quickly refined as Qin Yun''s.


    The moment he refined them for himself, he realized how much more esoteric the runic patterns engraved on the inner side of the black bangles were. When he sensed it, each bangle seemed like a pocket world in and of itself.


    "As I expected, these three bangles are three pieces of an entire Dharma treasure set," thought Qin Yun. "Every black bangle is a first-grade Dharma treasure. Just these three combined can match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure! If I can gather the complete set of Dharma treasures¡­ it should be at the Numinous treasure grade."


    "Furthermore, it would be a very powerful Numinous treasure." Qin Yun perceived the esoteric runic patterns contained on the three bangles.


    Numinous treasures also differed in strength.


    For example, the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet might be a talisman amulet at the Numinous treasure grade but it was mainly used to kill foes. On the other hand, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was mainly used to observe the world.


    As for the most ancient Bai family, its Stellar Heavenly Cycle combined the acts of life-preservation, enemy entrapment, and the killing of foes into one treasure. The reason why the Bai family had been strong since ancient times and created the best family clan in Numinous Treasure Mountain¡ªthe origin of the Daoist movement¡ªhad a lot to do with the Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    "This set of black bangles is naturally inferior to the Stellar Heavenly Cycle but I think it''s much better than the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet." That was Qin Yun¡¯s evaluation. "I can sense that it''s best at two things¡ªkilling and entrapment."


    One bangle alone was like a pocket world.


    When trapping an enemy, it trapped them in an entirely separate pocket world! When killing an enemy, it slammed them with the force of an entire pocket world!


    And with the three bangles in close proximity, the runic patterns would combine together. If it were an entire set of bangles¡­ the power would only be more frightening.


    "A bangle resembles an entirely different world," thought Qin Yun. "It also mimics the Heavenly Cycles and bears some resemblance to the Heavenly Cycles my flying sword produces."


    "Retrieve."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Whoosh.


    The three black bangles immediately expanded and flew off of the arm. As they flew towards Qin Yun, they rapidly contracted and wrapped around Qin Yun''s left wrist.


    "Other Realm Fiendcelestial, I''ll be taking your treasure. I do not know their names, however. From this day forth, they will be called Cosmic Bangles. They will join me in slaying evil." Qin Yun could not help but say with a smile as he looked at the gigantic arm.


    "What a precious treasure."


    Qin Yun was delighted.


    Each of the three Cosmic Bangles was a first-grade Dharmic treasure. Even if he controlled all three at once, it would be relatively undemanding thanks to his purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers. After all, the purity of his Dharmic powers could match that of immortals and fiendcelestials.


    "Let me test its strength." Qin Yun extended his arm.


    Woosh.


    The three Cosmic Bangles flew off of his wrist. Two of the Cosmic Bangles spun as they each struck a fiendmonster outside. Bam! Bam! With two bangs, the two fiendmonsters exploded to their deaths from the collisions. Another Cosmic Bangle expanded abruptly and instantly clamped down on a fiendmonster leader! As it held the fiendmonster leader in place, it shrunk to trap it.


    The fiendish demon leader stood in midair as it put all its strength into its arms and struggled as much as it could. As a result, the Cosmic Bangle began stretching. In terms of strength, the fiendish demon leader was equivalent to Matron Centaurea and Nine Mountain Island Lord. Just a single Cosmic Bangle was insufficient to trap it.


    Qin Yun furrowed his brows and immediately, another Cosmic Bangle flew over with a whoosh and trapped the fiendmonster leader.


    With two Cosmic Bangles trapping it simultaneously, the fiendmonster leader could no longer resist. It fell to the ground and although it tumbled on the floor in desperation, it could not escape by dematerializing.


    "After it is trapped by my Cosmic Bangles, it is completely restricted. It is not able to use any divine powers or Dharma spells, preventing it from escaping." Qin Yun suddenly saw black mist rise from the red-scaled arm. The mist transformed into two fiendmonsters. These two were born right inside the Cyclic Sword Flash''s interior. Immediately, they pounced toward Qin Yun.


    "Go."


    The Seven Kills Sword moved and with a "shwing!" the two fiendmonsters were split apart before they were diced up by the black mist.


    "Seal!" With a thought from Qin Yun, the three black Cosmic Bangles immediately gave up on the fiendmonsters outside and flew towards the red-scaled arm. They lodged onto the arm and instantly, sealed the powers the arm contained.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The six hundred plus fiendmonsters disappeared completely.


    Their powers stemmed from the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm but once the arm''s fiendish aura was contained, the fiendmonsters naturally vanished.


    ¡­


    The ruined hall quietened down as all the fiendmonsters disappeared. There was only Qin Yun and the sealed red-scaled arm.


    "Let''s see if I can cut it apart." Qin Yun gave the order.


    Shoo!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out and began attempting to cut through the red-scaled arm. The flying sword was extremely sharp but it only produced sparks when it struck the arm. It only barely left a few scuffs on the scales.


    "This body is just too powerful. I feel like I would need to burn my life to cast Samsara before I could split open even a few of the scales. As for cutting apart the whole arm? It would probably require hundreds if not thousands of Samsara." Qin Yun shook his head. He proceeded forward to cast a few Dharma spells. He tried various Sealing Spells, or spells that isolated auras. But every time Qin Yun attempted to retrieve the Cosmic Bangles, the red-scaled arm would immediately produce black mist. The various spells at his disposal could not repress it.


    "I think I need to use a Dao talisman. The Heaven Sealing Charm can seal a world. It should be able to seal the fiendish aura on this arm." Qin Yun took out a purple-colored Dao talisman and activated it with his Dharmic powers. Boom¡ª


    Runic patterns appeared in midair.


    The runic patterns descended and engraved themselves on the red-scaled arm. Only then was the black mist repressed.


    "A success." Qin Yun retrieved the three black Cosmic Bangles.


    He took out another Cosmic Bag from his waist and opened its mouth. The mouth expanded tremendously, taking up about half the size of the hall.


    Dharmic powers began carrying the 390-foot-long arm, pushing it into the Cosmic Bag.


    "Thankfully Senior Elder Sword''s Cosmic Bag is big enough, allowing me to store it. If not, I would have had to leave just to buy a Cosmic Bag." Qin Yun was extremely thankful. He had obtained Cosmic Bags around the Immortal Abode''s periphery back then. He also received Cosmic Bags when he killed great fiendish demons but the biggest one among them was Temple Lord Ruyi''s Cosmic Bag. It only had about 180 feet of space.


    Those Cosmic Bags would not have been able to store the arm.


    Elder Sword was someone who had once slain a fiendcelestial before. He was rich, and so the Cosmic Bag he used was a lot better than a typical Connate Golden Core cultivator¡¯s. Just his Cosmic Bag alone matched the price of a second-grade Dharma treasure. It had a space that stretched for a thousand feet! In fact, few cultivators in the world would spend the price of a second-grade Dharma treasure for a Cosmic Bag to store items.


    Only typical immortals or fiendcelestials would be so extravagant.


    "I have taken all the treasures in this ruined hall. I''ll slowly study that Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm in the future." Qin Yun looked towards another huge crack in the ruined hall. Through the two cracks, he could see the other end of the hall.


    "Let me take a look at the other areas of the Ancient Skydragon Palace." Qin Yun followed the large crack and flew in. The crack was three feet wide and about seventy or eighty feet deep. It stretched deep into the other end of the hall.

 211 Great Harves

    Chapter 211: Great Harvest


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Dragon Palace was mostly constructed of crystal. Qin Yun marveled at its crystalline beauty through the cracks.


    After passing through cracks, he entered another hall at the other end.


    There were scattered vessels on the ground, and not far from the entrance were damaged Dharma treasures and weapons. Qin Yun judged at a glance, "The Four Seas Dragon race have yet to come to this district."


    After taking a few steps, he beckoned for a sword on the ground to fly into his hand. Qin Yun sized it up. "A sixth-grade Dharmic treasure, but it has gone too long without the nourishment of Dharmic powers. It¡¯s already showing signs of damage." With that said, he injected his Golden Core Dharmic powers into the sword. It immediately suffused lightning and, as the Dharmic powers circulated through the sword, the minute damages healed slowly.


    "Nourishing it for about half a month will restore it completely." Qin Yun nodded. It had probably the least amount of damage of all the Dharma treasures and weapons on the ground. The others'' runic patterns had dissipated and they were completely damaged. It was troublesome even to melt them for materials. Unless the materials were expensive, there was no need for him to gather them.


    The hall he was in was considered as part of another district within the palace''s periphery. Qin Yun carefully explored the area.


    "The battle back then must have been truly terrifying."


    As he walked, he picked up the Dharma treasures that were still barely usable. He also saw more obvious signs of the fateful battle that happened a long time ago as he approached the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s core.


    Without the fiendmonsters blocking his path, Qin Yun traveled through three districts in the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s periphery. He obtained a pile of Dharma treasures, the most precious item being a third-grade Dharma treasure. It was likely left behind by a soldier of the Dragon Palace from that era.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly caught sight of a massive dragon corpse through a crack in an adjacent hall.


    "This corpse has been preserved all this time?" Qin Yun was astonished. "It would be pretty impressive if a few bones of a Connate Golden Core corpse were left from ancient times."


    "For this corpse to be intact, could he have been be at the level of immortals?" Qin Yun was delighted. He did not believe it was the ancient Skydragon. Through the crack, the dragon''s corpse did not release a powerful suppressive aura. It was nowhere comparable to the red-scaled arm.


    "I should get there quickly." Qin Yun immediately searched for the path. As the crack was too fine, he could not crawl through it even if he tried to squeeze.


    After searching for some time, he was pleased to realize that the adjacent hall was in the same district. He soon circled the area and followed a passage into that hall.


    In that hall lay the remnants of a dragon corpse. It was covered with azure-colored scales and its whiskers were sprawled to the side. Its body had been torn into two and the ground was covered with dried blood. The dragon corpse had many wounds that suffused a black, fiendish aura.


    "This must be a dragon at the True Dragon realm." Qin Yun made the judgment. "He is on par with ordinary Essence Soul immortals and must have been be a subordinate of the ancient Skydragon. Back when the ancient Skydragon fought the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, the battle caused many areas of the Ancient Skydragon Palace to collapse. The subordinates must have been killed by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial."


    Based on his judgment of the aura, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s claw probably needed just two to three strikes to kill a True Dragon realm dragon.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun beckoned.


    Immediately, treasures flew up.


    They were a white threaded net, a huge seal, and a big bag.


    "The treasures of a True Dragon realm dragon must be pretty good." Qin Yun felt a little excited. He injected them with Dharmic powers, causing the white threaded net to instantly expand. Furthermore, water began to circle around him. As for the huge seal, it produced swirling lightning bolts.


    "They are all first-grade Dharma treasures. This threaded net can bind an enemy and also temporarily block enemies. This huge seal is used to attack enemies head-on." Qin Yun nodded. "The present Four Seas Dragon race, such as the West Sea Dragon race, does not have more than ten figures at the True Dragon realm! This dragon that died in the Ancient Skydragon Palace must have been a member of the upper echelons."


    Presently, immortals and fiendcelestials typically used a first-grade Dharma treasure.


    As for transcendent-grade Dharma treasures? Very few used that. As for Numinous treasures? That was something that could determine the fate of the entire human race! Those that could use a Numinous treasure were typically the leaders of a Daoist or Buddhist sacred land! Furthermore, there was a high barrier of entry to being able to bring out the power of a Numinous treasure. Back then, Immortal Scenic Yang was a leader of the Daoist movement. After him, no one from the Scenic Mountain Sect could really use his Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet to its full potential.


    For example, if Qin Yun gathered all the Cosmic Bangles, they would be considered a Numinous treasure. However, Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers were insufficient to use it, and his comprehension of the runic patterns on the Cosmic Bangles was still too shallow. He was capable enough to use the scattered three but to use the entire Numinous treasure? He needed to have deeper levels of comprehension before he could use it.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun put away the treasures and following that, stored the two parts of the dragon corpse inside his Cosmic Bag. With this second large corpse in his possession, Yi Yun was grateful that Elder Sword''s Cosmic Bag was bigger than the True Dragon realm dragon''s Cosmic Bag.


    "Time to go elsewhere to take a look." Having harvested a great yield, Qin Yun was in an extremely good mood.


    He continued walking. Previously, the periphery of the palace complex was mostly intact but the deeper he went, the more damage he encountered.


    "This place is completely isolated by array formations. I can''t enter¡­" Qin Yun searched the entire way and finally found a flaw in the array formation. "I knew it. It''s impossible for an array formation to be in perfect condition after running for so long. There has to be a flaw," said Qin Yun as he attempted to enter.


    "Halt."


    A voice boomed.


    Whoosh.


    A stocky soldier appeared out of thin air. He was slightly more than ten feet tall and he was covered in golden armor. He held a golden hammer in each hand as he stared at Qin Yun.


    "A Yellow-scarved Strongman?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "I''m the Dragon Palace''s Guardian General." The stocky soldier pointed at Qin Yun and shouted, "The interior of the Dragon Palace is the living quarters of the Dragon King and his children. You are not to barge in."


    Qin Yun was enlightened as he nodded with a smile. "Looks like this is the inner district of the Dragon Palace. However, Guardian General, the Dragon King and his children are long gone, aren''t they?"


    The Guardian General was slightly taken aback, but he nodded. "Yes, they are all dead! But I''m responsible for keeping watch here. Naturally, I will keep watch forever."


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    Entities like Yellow-scarved Strongman were not real lifeforms. They were absolutely loyal. Even after their master''s death, they would continue to abide by the orders that were given to them.


    "Then let me see how powerful you are." Qin Yun waved his hand as the gray blurry Seven Kills Sword shot out in the form of a sword beam that resembled a swimming dragon.


    "How audacious!" the Guardian General bellowed.


    Boom!


    Immediately, a surging bolt descended from the sky and gathered over the Guardian General''s body. It increased his might greatly as he brandished the golden hammers in his hands. With a boom, he reduced the sword beam to smithereens. The Seven Kills Sword was sent flying back before it rapidly returned to Qin Yun''s side.


    "Go." The Guardian General threw one of its golden hammers. With lightning bolts, the golden hammer hurtled towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun retreated rapidly as his Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out, immediately forming the Cyclic Sword Flash to block it.


    "Bam!"


    A loud explosion was heard.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash distorted and quaked but Qin Yun had already directed the Seven Kills Sword to form a second Cyclic Sword Flash layer.


    "Thankfully, it did not crack." Qin Yun was alarmed. "But that smite is stronger than the combined attacks of six hundred plus fiendmonsters."


    "Human, you have some interesting tricks up your sleeve. Take another strike of mine!" The Guardian General suddenly threw out another golden hammer. It struck the Cyclic Sword Flash with bolts of lightning, disintegrating it immediately. And at that moment, Qin Yun had already fled a distance away. With a thought, he immediately summoned his Intrinsic Flying Sword to return.


    "He escaped rather quickly." The Guardian General stopped and looked at the fleeing Qin Yun. "But what a boring outcome. It''s rare for a human to give me some fun but he fled after a few throws of my hammer."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun escaped a distance away and heaved a sigh of relief when he saw that the Guardian General had not pursued him.


    "Guardian Generals man the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s interior districts. They will naturally abide by orders. Unfortunately, the interior is augmented by the array formation and the Guardian General is truly powerful. My Cyclic Sword Flash found it difficult just to withstand his strikes." Qin Yun shook his head. "Guardian Generals are similar to Yellow-scarved Strongmen. They are indestructible. Unless my Cyclic Sword Flash can completely withstand his attacks, I cannot enter for the time being."


    Killing a Guardian General was meaningless. As soon as he killed it, the Guardian General would regenerate instantly.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun jumped onto the top of a relatively tall palace hall''s roof. He continued flying upwards before encountering the obstruction of the main array formation.


    Standing atop the palace hall, he looked towards the direction of the inner palace compound.


    "Tsk. The battle in the inner palace complex was even more horrifying," Qin Yun commented after a glance.


    He saw that many areas in the inner palace compound had collapsed. There were blood stains everywhere. Because it was in ruins, Qin Yun could naturally see their interior. He easily found two dragon corpses and a gigantic black crab corpse. The corpses that remained intact since ancient times were probably at the level of immortals and fiendcelestials.


    "The Ancient Skydragon Palace''s experts are probably all dead. Even the ancient Skydragon only managed to kill the Other Realm Fiendcelestial in a desperate attempt and died soon after." Qin Yun shook his head. "That Other Realm Fiendcelestial was too confident of himself. He dared to storm the ancient Skydragon''s lair. Although nearly all the experts of the Ancient Skydragon Palace were killed, he also lost his life."


    "That is¡ª"


    Qin Yun suddenly caught sight of a massive, red-scaled fiendcelestial corpse in the distant ruins. The corpse was missing a leg and half an arm. The other arm remained intact and there were three black bangles on it. Furthermore, the massive fiendcelestial corpse had fiendmonsters lurking around it. They were all larger in size than the fiendmonster leaders that Qin Yun had previously encountered.


    "The Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse!" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "The fiendmonsters condensed from before came only from an arm. As for these fiendmonsters, they are condensed from a nearly intact Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse. These ordinary fiendmonsters appear to be even stronger." Qin Yun gasped in shock.


    He carefully studied the area.


    The inner district of the palace complex was very large. Many of the palaces were very tall but thankfully, many of them had collapsed due to the battle. This allowed Qin Yun to see the various areas through the many cracks.


    After carefully observing the area, he discovered five dragon corpses, a gigantic crab corpse, and a gigantic fish corpse. They were likely at the immortal or fiendcelestial level. Of course, the most powerful entity was the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse. Even though it was tens of kilometers away, the evil and horrifying Dao that the corpse contained left Qin Yun feeling suppressed.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun trod through the Ancient Skydragon Palace carefully and, including the district he first discovered, he found eight other districts on the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s periphery. In comparison, the area that Qin Yun had visited was just a tiny portion of the palace complex''s periphery that spanned more than five hundred kilometers.


    As for the palace complex''s interior? He could not enter for the time being. It was isolated by an array formation and there was a Guardian General manning the entrance.


    "Splash."


    A beam shot out from the surface of the sea and rapidly streaked across the horizon as it headed east.


    "I have obtained the Skydragon Blood Crystals. I can now tell Xiaoxiao what happened years ago." Qin Yun was overjoyed. He had been hiding the matter from his wife for the past few years. After all, he did not have confidence that he could obtain the Skydragon Blood Crystals until now.

 212 Truth

    Chapter 212: Truth


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Night fell. In a garden at Qin Manor.


    Yi Xiao continued drawing a talisman serenely, while sitting in front of a table with a lamp on it. One needed to be calm and composed while drawing talismans. This was because each stroke contained the wonders of the Heaven and Earth. There was a saying, "Not knowing the key to drawing talismans incurs the ridicule of gods and ghosts; knowing the key to drawing talismans instills fear in gods and ghosts." At Yi Xiao''s stage of grasping the implications of the Heavenly Dao, she understood the meaning behind every stroke. She could even modify Dao talismans.


    There were many talisman amulets created by experts of various eras.


    For example, the best Lightning Dharma, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, was created by Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun returned from the West Sea and landed silently in the garden. He stood beside the table and watched Yi Xiao draw.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded as he watched from the side. The path of cultivation led to the same goal by different paths. He had long attained the Paramount realm and could naturally tell that Yi Xiao''s talisman-drawing technique was approaching the acme of perfection.


    "Phew." Yi Xiao breathed out as she looked at the Dao talisman in front of her with satisfaction. Following that, she seemed to notice something and looked to the side. She could not help but exclaim, "Brother Yun, you really gave me a scare! You were standing there silently without me even knowing."


    Although the Qin Manor was covered in array formations, Qin Yun wielded control over them, so he could naturally enter and exit without causing a stir.


    "When I left in the morning, didn''t I make you waste a Dao talisman? I was just being careful when I returned. Xiaoxiao, you would probably have jumped in anger if I caused you to waste another Dao talisman," explained Qin Yun.


    "At least you are sensible."


    Yi Xiao smiled and then shouted, "Yuzhu, prepare some dishes. I will be eating with Master."


    "Yes, Madam." A maidservant that had been waiting outside the garden answered immediately.


    The Qin family was now a famous family clan throughout the world. The Qin family''s owner was naturally Qin Yun, with Yi Xiao appearing on his behalf sometimes! After all, those that required Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s presence were usually the Scenic Mountain Sect, the imperial government, the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, the Dragon race, or other important factions. Qin Yun''s parents were mortals that had not knocked open the gate of immortality, so they were unable to handle certain matters.


    In the manor, Qin Yun was addressed as Master, while Qin Liehu and his wife were addressed as Old Master and Old Madam. His mother, Changlan, was already fifty-five and his father, Qin Liehu, was already over the age of sixty.


    ¡­


    After she instructed for the dishes to be made, Yi Xiao asked, "Brother Yun, you left early in the morning and only returned after it was dark. What kept you so busy?"


    "It''s something important. Listen to what I have to say carefully," said Qin Yun.


    "You were dealing with fiendish demons?" guessed Yi Xiao.


    "Just listen to what I have to say," replied Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll listen. Go ahead." Yi Xiao felt helpless. "Why do you keep even me guessing?"


    Only then did Qin Yun say, "Do you know that pure-blooded members of the Dragon race are forbidden from marrying members of the other races?"


    "I do know. Every pure-blood dragon can achieve the Connate Golden Core realm. They enjoy extremely high standing even as dragon children. Half-bloods would not have the ability to tap into that natural strength. They would not be recognized by the Four Seas Dragon race." Yi Xiao nodded. "For example, in the Four Seas and the various lakes and rivers, there are all sorts of dragons that contain a strain of the Dragon race''s bloodline but they are not considered true dragons."


    Qin Yun nodded. "The West Sea Dragon race has a dragon lady. Her name is Ao Xue."


    "Ao Xue?" When Yi Xiao heard that name, she felt her heart tremble for no good reason.


    "This Ao Xue once went ashore and into the human world. She took a liking to a human man," said Qin Yun. "They got married and had a child."


    Yi Xiao became nervous listening to this. As a Divine Firmament Chapter disciple, she knew what repercussions awaited the dragon lady.


    "The West Sea Dragon race was infuriated when they discovered the marriage! The marriage was a violation of the clan rules. The West Sea Dragon race immediately captured Ao Xue and punished her severely. She was imprisoned for five centuries," explained Qin Yun. "Although she was unwilling to abandon her husband and daughter, she had no way of putting up a struggle. It was also dirty linen for the Dragon race so it was kept completely confidential. Neither her husband nor daughter know that she is a member of the Dragon race."


    "Brother Yun, why are you telling me all this¡­" Yi Xiao looked intently at Qin Yun.


    "This dragon lady, Ao Xue, is your mother." Qin Yun looked back at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao''s body jolted as her face turned pale.


    "My mother. My mom? My mom is a dragon lady?" Yi Xiao instantly fell into a daze.


    "Yea, and very few people know of this matter. Your father, Yi Caishi, doesn''t even know. In the entire Yi family, probably only Patriarch Yi knows about it. Even among the Four Seas Dragon race, only a few know of it," said Qin Yun.


    "My mom did not abandon me. She was forced to do so." Yi Xiao''s eyes reddened instantly as she grabbed Qin Yun''s hand and pleaded, "Brother Yun, help me. Help me save my mom. I want to save her. Save her, please."


    "Of course." Qin Yun nodded.


    Yi Xiao retracted her hand and said uneasily, "She violated the Dragon race''s rules and was imprisoned for five centuries. She violated the rules so how can she be saved? I have heard that there was once a dragon that violated a rule so severely that he was beheaded."


    Pure-blooded dragons were few in number. They were typically punished or imprisoned.


    As for really beheading a dragon¡­ there were very few instances in history but it did happen!


    "Don''t worry, Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun held his wife''s shoulder and said with a smile, "I have a way to save your mom."


    "You have a way? What way?" Yi Xiao found it unbelievable. "This is a violation of the Dragon race''s rules."


    If exceptions to the clan rules could be so easily granted, how could it remain authoritative?


    "Three years ago, I visited the West Sea Dragon Palace. The West Sea Dragon King and company refused my request," explained Qin Yun. "Out of options, I inquired through the Myriad Temple for means to convince the West Sea Dragon race to pardon your mom. The Myriad Temple gave one method, which is to use a Skydragon Blood Crystal to exchange for your mom''s freedom."


    "Skydragon Blood Crystal?" Yi Xiao asked in detail, "What is it? Why would it get the West Sea Dragon race to make an exception?"


    "It is the source of an ancient Skydragon''s power," said Qin Yun. "The ancient Skydragon was extremely powerful, with strength far exceeding the immortals and fiendcelestials of our present era. A single Skydragon Blood Crystal is enough to make the Four Seas Dragon Elders go crazy."


    "You have one?" asked Yi Xiao hurriedly.


    "Yea, I do. In fact, I have more than one," Qin Yun said with a smile. "Isn''t your husband awesome?"


    "How did you get them?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I made a trip to the Ancient Skydragon Palace," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I was lucky to find a new entrance. And, coupled with your husband''s awesome strength, I barged into the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Although I failed initially, I succeeded today! I obtained the Skydragon Blood Crystals! Not only that, I received other treasures too. Take a look at this. The three Cosmic Bangles on my wrist are all first-grade Dharma treasures. In addition, they are a set that, when combined together, match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure in strength."


    Qin Yun pointed at the three black bangles on his wrist.


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun and could not help but tear up.


    "Why are you crying?" asked Qin Yun immediately.


    "You knew about it three years ago. You knew about my mom." Yi Xiao looked at her husband. "You attempted the Ancient Skydragon Palace three years ago but only succeeded today, informing me only after succeeding. That is the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Yet, you went to risk your life without telling me a word?"


    "It''s fine." Qin Yun smiled. "Don''t I look fine now?"


    To be honest, the danger in the Ancient Skydragon Palace was difficult to predict. He encountered the arm of an Other Realm Fiendcelestial on his first trip. The fiendmonsters that were produced from its aura indeed posed some danger. Thankfully, it was still within his level of tolerance. If he had encountered the fiendmonsters created by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s entire corpse¡­ they would probably be ten to a hundred times more powerful than those produced by the arm. If that was the case, Qin Yun would probably have lost his life.


    However, such unexplored lands always posed some risk. Qin Yun had also used his sword intent domain and was very careful as he advanced.


    "It would be too late if something did happen." Yi Xiao hugged Qin Yun, and her tears moistened Qin Yun''s shirt. "I really want to meet my mother but Brother Yun, you are the most important person in my life. Don''t go risking your life without a word ever again."


    Qin Yun hugged Yi Xiao and smiled.


    Under the night sky, the couple embraced each other silently.


    Yi Xiao could feel the care and concern from Qin Yun but she was more worried about him. Frankly, she did not have deep feelings for the Yi family. Although finally knowing the story of her mother pained her heart, her mother was something from before her first memory. She lacked memories of her mother so in this world, the most important person to Yi Xiao was still Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, tell me about that Ancient Skydragon Palace. Others weren''t able to obtain Skydragon Blood Crystals but you managed to?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Speaking of that, didn''t the Yi family ask me to help find two missing Yi family members?" Qin Yun began explaining.


    It was partly luck and partly his own strength that caused him to reap such a bountiful harvest.


    After she heard the story, Yi Xiao was astounded by the strength of the ancient Skydragon and the Other Realm Fiendcelestial. She also felt a lingering fear as she could not help but say, "We shouldn''t have agreed on that disappearance case. It made you fall into danger."


    "Who can predict danger? Besides, it turned out to be a good thing," said Qin Yun. "By the way, I''ll contact the Myriad Temple today and begin the process of getting the West Sea Dragon race to pardon your mother."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Master, Madam." A maidservant''s voice sounded from outside the garden as maidservants began bringing in dishes.


    "Let''s eat dinner first," said Yi Xiao. "We have to consider our actions carefully before getting the West Sea Dragon race''s pardon."


    "Yea, let''s eat dinner first."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The couple sat by the table and under the flickering light, began eating. After the maidservants took their leave, the couple began discussing over the meal.


    "Be wary that the West Sea Dragon race might target your Skydragon Blood Crystals." Yi Xiao said while eating. "You did say that the Skydragon Blood Crystals are immensely attractive to the Four Seas Dragon race. They are even willing to make an exception over a violation of the clan rules for one."

 213 Dragon Lady Ao Xue

    Chapter 213: Dragon Lady Ao Xue


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    That night, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao thought deeply about the matter. They even contacted Patriarch Yi for advice. He also acknowledged that the Myriad Temple''s reputation was impeccable.


    Everything was arranged through the Myriad Temple.


    ¡­


    The next day, at dawn.


    In a secret location in the West Sea.


    The dragon lady, Ao Xue, was imprisoned. She was dressed in white, sitting cross-legged in the dungeon. She had no one to talk to and seemed to suffer unending loneliness.


    Yi Xiao clearly resembled her mother. Although Ao Xue lacked the fairy-like disposition of Yi Xiao, she had the air of poised nobility as expected of a dragon lady. She was also a lot more mature.


    "Cough." Ao Xue coughed, and blood appeared by the corner of her mouth.


    "Caishi, Xiao''er." Ao Xue''s eyes welled with tears.


    She had been imprisoned in what seemed like perpetual solitude. Although she spent most of her days cultivating, she would fervently miss her husband and daughter once she stopped cultivating.


    Her separation with Yi Xiao happened back when Yi Xiao was still in her infancy, a garbling baby.


    "Xiao''er. Mom misses you so much. Five centuries. Will Xiao''er and Caishi still be alive five centuries from now?" Ao Xue looked up as her tears could not help but flow down. "Will we still be able to meet in our present lifetime?"


    She did not bear hopes that Yi Caishi and Yi Xiao would be able to condense an Essence Soul to become immortal. Reaching the True Dragon realm was extremely difficult for pure-blooded dragons too.


    "No."


    "I have to meet Xiao''er. As long¡­ as long as my cultivation reaches the True Dragon realm, I can be released early." Ao Xue bore the grief and continued cultivating. To pure-blooded dragons, attaining the level equivalent to the Connate Golden Core was very simple. But to attain the True Dragon realm? That was difficult! Ao Xue had been cultivating like a maniac for the past two decades or so. Yet she did not even come close to reaching the True Dragon realm.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Rumble!" The sealed stone door opened.


    "Oh?" Ao Xue opened her eyes as she looked at the stone door in a daze.


    Logically speaking, she was to be imprisoned for five centuries. That meant that the stone door would not be opened for five centuries.


    Yet here the door was opening to reveal an aged female Dragon Elder, Elder Ao Qiong. Standing beside her was a gray-robed male Elder.


    "Ao Xue." Elder Ao Qiong spoke in a stoic manner.


    "Elder." Ao Xue immediately stood up and paid her respects.


    "Follow Elder Qi to the Dragon Palace," said Elder Ao Qiong. "If everything goes according to plan, you can regain your freedom today." With that said, Elder Ao Qiong turned and left.


    Ao Xue was taken aback.


    Regain her freedom?


    he had violated the clan''s rules.


    "Let''s go," The gray-robed Elder said with a smile.


    "Elder Qi, I''ll regain my freedom?" Ao Xue did not dare believe her ears.


    "You have a good daughter and a good son-in-law," said Elder Qi with a smile.


    "Daughter? Son-in-law?" Ao Xue was in a daze.


    Back when she was taken away, her daughter was still a babbling infant.


    ¡­


    West Sea Dragon Palace.


    There were already Water race soldiers that peeped their heads out of the sea''s surface to look at the distant sky. When they saw Qin Yun and Yi Xiao approaching on a flying sword, they were overjoyed.


    Immediately, a Water race soldier dove to the seabed and rushed towards the Dragon Palace.


    At present, the West Sea Dragon King, Elder Qi, Ao Xue, and the other dragon children were already waiting in the West Sea Dragon Palace.


    "Your Majesty," reported the Water race soldier hurriedly. "Sword Immortal Qin and his wife are here."


    "Let''s go over." Dragon King nodded.


    Whoosh.


    With West Sea Dragon King and Elder Qi leading the way, they brought Ao Xue and the dragon children, as well as a large group of Water race soldiers, along as they flew towards the water¡¯s surface obstreperously.


    Above the sea.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were standing on a cloud, waiting.


    "Nothing will go wrong, right?" Yi Xiao felt a little uneasy.


    "Don''t worry. Didn''t Senior Yi mention it yesterday? If we had directly negotiated with the West Sea Dragon race, they might go back on their word. However, with Myriad Temple as an intermediary, the West Sea Dragon race will obey the rules properly," said Qin Yun. The Myriad Temple placed paramount importance on their reputation. If anyone dared to tarnish that reputation, the Myriad Temple would strike with swift retribution.


    Myriad Temple was a mysterious and unfathomable faction. It had existed since ancient times and had always maintained neutrality.


    "They are coming."


    Qin Yun sensed their arrival and looked down. Yi Xiao felt a little nervous too.


    "Splash!"


    The surface of the sea parted as a group of dragons flew out obstreperously. Dragon King and Elder Qi were at the True Dragon realm and so naturally had extraordinary might. The dragon children behind were mostly at the level equivalent to the Connate Golden Core. The remaining were either too young or slacked off in their cultivation. They simply needed to spend a bit more time and they would definitely achieve the level equivalent to the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "Greetings Your Majesty and Elder Qi." Qin Yun bowed. Beside him, Yi Xiao bowed as well.


    At that moment, Ao Xue was staring at Yi Xiao. Her eyes were red as she continued staring.


    She was comparing her to the infant from her memories, as well as Yi Caishi and herself.


    "She resembles me. She resembles me a lot," Ao Xue muttered under her breath.


    Yi Xiao, who was standing beside Qin Yun, took note of her mother. She noticed at a glance the excited eyes that were turning red. The dragon lady even resembled her, albeit being a more mature version of her. Furthermore, having cultivated to their respective levels, their sixth senses were a lot more sensitive.


    "She''s my mom?" Yi Xiao was nervous as well.


    "As expected of Sword Immortal Qin to actually obtain a Skydragon Blood Crystal. I''m truly impressed," said West Sea Dragon King with a smile.


    "I was only lucky," said Qin Yun.


    "There is no such thing as luck when it comes to obtaining treasures," Dragon King said with a smile. "This person beside me is Ao Xue."


    Ao Xue looked at the couple. "They are my daughter and son-in-law? His Majesty addressed him as Sword Immortal Qin? From the looks of it, my son-in-law isn''t a typical cultivator."


    After Yi Xiao heard Dragon King''s introduction, she immediately confirmed that the dragon lady that resembled her was her mother. She looked at Ao Xue and was momentarily at a loss for words.


    She had conjured many depictions of her mother but her mother was no longer with her since before her first memory.


    "Speaking of which, Sword Immortal Qin, you and your wife have close ties with my West Sea Dragon race," said Dragon King with a smile. "However, Ao Xue violated the clan rules, so I couldn''t help even if I wanted to. Sword Immortal Qin, you are willing to give a Skydragon Blood Crystal in exchange for Ao Xue''s freedom. And a Skydragon Blood Crystal is of great importance to us¡­ It''s even enough to offset the sins of Ao Xue."


    "Hand me the Skydragon Blood Crystal and Ao Xue will go free," said Dragon King.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded and waved his hand.


    Shoo!


    A blood crystal the size of a finger segment flew out.


    The dragon children beside felt their blood boil when they saw it. They had a strong urge to devour the Skydragon Blood Crystal. Even West Sea Dragon King and Elder Qi felt their gaze warm up. Dragon King reached out his hand and grabbed the Skydragon Blood Crystal.


    "It''s with me." Dragon King looked at the Skydragon Blood Crystal in his hand and felt tremendous excitement.


    "Ao Xue." Dragon King looked at Ao Xue. "From this moment forth, you are free. Remember, do not violate the clan rules again."


    "Yes." Ao Xue nodded.


    She eagerly flew toward Qin Yun and Yi Xiao.


    "Your name is Yi Xiao?" Ao Xue looked at Yi Xiao. Her gaze was one of unease but also of anticipation.


    "Can you tell me what happened back then?" Yi Xiao was incapable of calling her ''Mom'' at that moment.


    Ao Xue nodded immediately. "Yes, of course."


    Yi Xiao found her alien but Ao Xue felt affection for Yi Xiao since she resembled the grown-up daughter she imagined her to be.


    ¡­


    And on the other side, West Sea Dragon King and Elder Qi were feeling excited.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Dragon King beamed even more cordially. "Ao Xue and her daughter still need time to warm up to each other. We just need to get together more often in the future. Speaking of which, Sword Immortal Qin, you are considered a relative of our West Sea Dragon race. Come visit as often as you like."


    "I will." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, did you only obtain one Skydragon Blood Crystal at the Ancient Skydragon Palace?" Dragon King could not help but ask. Elder Qi and the surrounding dragon children were staring intently at Qin Yun as well.


    Qin Yun said with a smile. "I had quite a fortuitous encounter and obtained two Skydragon Blood Crystals. I also obtained the ancient Skydragon''s Dragon Blood and other treasures."


    "Can you sell the other Skydragon Blood Crystal to our West Sea Dragon race? Also, we would be willing to buy the ancient Skydragon''s Dragon Blood and other items as well," said Dragon King warmly.


    The Skydragon Blood Crystal was the essence of the ancient Skydragon''s life. It was naturally precious.


    As for the Skydragon''s blood? An ancient Skydragon had a lot of blood but its value was inferior to that of a Skydragon Blood Crystal. However, it was still rather attractive to ordinary pure-blooded dragons.


    "There''s no hurry." Qin Yun shook his head. "I do not plan on selling them at the moment."


    "Skydragon Blood Crystals are extremely important to our Four Seas Dragon race. It''s of not much use to you humans," said Dragon King.


    Qin Yun replied, "Let''s put this matter to rest. There''s no need to continue trying to persuade me, Your Majesty."


    Dragon King frowned when he heard that.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, for you to obtain those Skydragon Blood Crystals, you must have found a new entrance to the Ancient Skydragon Palace, am I right?" A male dragon spoke out. "Can you tell us? We will definitely reward you."


    Qin Yun shook his head with a smile.


    What a joke.


    Although he believed that the Four Seas Dragon race would not be able to obtain any treasures even if they did find the entrance, there was no reason for him to share his discovery with others.


    Besides, Qin Yun did not have an iota of gratefulness toward the West Sea Dragon race. Previously, he had visited them and sought their help but they had directly rejected his request! He only managed to secure his mother-in-law''s freedom by getting the Myriad Temple to intervene and arrange an exchange for a Skydragon Blood Crystal! According to Qin Yun''s understanding of the Skydragon Blood Crystal''s value, the West Sea Dragon race had made a killing simply by pardoning Ao Xue!


    "I have yet to spread that news to anyone," said Qin Yun.


    "You refuse to sell the Skydragon Blood Crystal and you aren''t willing to tell us the entrance to the array formation? Sword Immortal Qin, aren''t you going a little too overboard?" The male dragon bellowed. A few of the dragons revealed angry looks.


    "Alright, cut it out." Dragon King said but he was also looking straight at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "This dragon prince, might I know your name? That tone of yours is rather biting. I, Qin Yun, have traveled the world and no one has dared to force a sale on me!"

 214 Investigating the Entrance

    Chapter 214: Investigating the Entrance


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "How can such a secret be told to just anyone?" quipped Yi Xiao. Ao Xue did not utter a word. How could she not feel disgruntled after being imprisoned all these years? Furthermore, she was more concerned with her daughter''s thoughts. This was the first time they were meeting and she didn¡¯t want to dampen her daughter''s feelings towards her.


    "Secret?"


    The male dragon shouted, "Qin Yun, our West Sea Dragon race has done nothing but treat you well. You wanted to free Ao Xue and our West Sea Dragon race gave Ao Xue her freedom without so much as a word. Yet here you are making all sorts of excuses when we request your help. You even claim that no one has ever dared to force a sale on you during your travels throughout the world?"


    "I''m asking you again. What''s your name?" asked Qin Yun with a smile. "You have to let me know your name after baring your fangs at me. Or could it be that you do not dare to tell me your name?"


    "Listen up. My name is Ao Chong!" said the male dragon loudly.


    Almost at the same time, the West Sea Dragon King said, "The lot of you¡­"


    "Your Majesty, there''s no need for you to say a word," said Ao Chong. "I want to make sense of this matter between us. Qin Yun, we are not profiting at your expense when it comes to the Skydragon Blood Crystal. We are also willing to buy it with treasures. As for the array formation entrance...isn''t it only an entrance? You¡¯ve probably already taken away all the treasures in it, anyway. So what''s wrong with letting us in?"


    "Do you mean that I have to sell you the Skydragon Blood Crystal because you are willing to pay with treasures? If I ask for a Numinous treasure, would you give it to me?" asked Qin Yun.


    "You really dare to name your price! A Numinous treasure?" Ao Chong glared at him.


    "That''s right. If it''s expensive, you aren''t agreeable to it. The item is mine so it''s naturally my decision to sell it or not," said Qin Yun. "As for the array formation''s entrance? I discovered the entrance as a fortuitous encounter. Why should I tell you?"


    Qin Yun scanned the group of dragons.


    He could sense that they knew that after the stick didn''t work for the West Sea dragons, they immediately used the carrot approach.


    Just as Patriarch Yi said, the Four Seas Dragon race yearned for a Skydragon Blood Crystal! If not for the Myriad Temple being the intermediary, the West Sea Dragon race might have suddenly raised the conditions. But with the Myriad Temple involved, they had no choice but to abide by the agreement.


    "As for releasing my mother-in-law," said Qin Yun with a shake of his head. "That has nothing to do with you, the West Sea Dragon race. You were the ones who imprisoned her! In order to save her, I made an agreement with the Myriad Temple. I paid a Skydragon Blood Crystal in exchange for her freedom. That is an ordinary transaction for the Myriad Temple. What right do you have to say that you treated me well?"


    Ao Chong turned agitated.


    "Alright, alright." Dragon King frowned and felt a little vexed. "Ao Chong, you and your bad temper."


    "I even treated him as a relative but he said such nasty words," said Ao Chong angrily.


    "Shut up!" Dragon King bellowed.


    "Hmph." Ao Chong grunted coldly.


    Qin Yun watched the scene play out before him.


    Some cultivators might be advanced in age but, due to their long periods of cultivation, they did not understand the darkness that resided in the hearts of others. Qin Yun had traveled the world when he was fifteen. In those three years, he saw more darkness in people''s hearts than he did in the decades that followed!


    Qin Yun could tell at a glance that West Sea Dragon King had berated Ao Chong after realizing that Qin Yun did not fall for the carrot-and-stick approach.


    "Ao Chong has a bad temper. Sword Immortal Qin, please do not fault him." Dragon race said with a smile as he shook his head. "Our Dragon race is few in numbers to begin with. Most of them do not even listen to what I have to say."


    "If he has a bad temper, he needs to keep it in check," said Qin Yun with a smile. "On account of my mother-in-law, all I did was give back remarks. If he were someone unrelated to me, I would have released my flying sword to teach him a lesson or two."


    Ao Chong''s expression changed when he heard that.


    Qin Yun swept his glance.


    "Haha." Dragon King laughed out loudly before looking at Ao Xue. "Ao Xue, do you plan on staying in the Dragon Palace or do you have other plans?"


    "This is my first meeting with Xiao''er. I want to stay in the human world for a while," replied Ao Xue.


    "Alright then. We should get together in the future." Dragon King nodded.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Dragon King looked at Qin Yun. "If you really have any intention of selling the treasures you obtained from the Ancient Skydragon Palace, especially the Skydragon Blood Crystal, please inform my West Sea. When the time comes, our West Sea Dragon race will pay the price. Let the highest bidder win!"


    Qin Yun nodded. "If I do want to sell, I''ll definitely inform you, Your Majesty."


    As for who he sold it to, it was his right.


    He could sell it to the East Sea Dragon race, Numinous Treasure Mountain, or even the imperial government.


    "Haha, I''ll take your words to heart," said West Sea Dragon King with a smile.


    "We won''t impose on you any longer. Goodbye," said Qin Yun.


    With that, Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ao Xue rode a cloud and headed east.


    The West Sea Dragon race watched from afar before heading for the underwater Dragon Palace.


    "Darn you, Qin Yun. You are only a Paramount realm sword immortal, yet you are so arrogant!" Ao Chong said angrily. "Anyone from my Dragon race can match a Connate Golden Core and we have impressive combat strength. How dare a mere human sword immortal not give our West Sea Dragon race face?"


    "This human sword immortal has what it takes to be arrogant. Which one of us can crack the flying sword art of his that produces the Heavenly Cycles?"


    The dragon youth surrounding him discussed.


    As for Dragon King and Elder Qi, they were already inside the Dragon Palace.


    "He is impervious to either aspect of the carrot-and-stick approach," said Elder Qi. "That Qin Yun also knows how important the Skydragon Blood Crystal is. Unless it''s critical, he will not sell it easily. If he sells it publicly, our West Sea is far inferior to the East Sea when it comes to our accumulated reserves."


    "Yea." Dragon King nodded.


    Among the Four Seas Dragon race, the East Sea reigned supreme.


    The East Sea Dragon Palace was more powerful than the Dragon races from the other three seas combined. The main reason for this was that the Dragon race originated from the East Sea Dragon race.


    "Investigate," said West Sea Dragon King. "Investigate carefully and find out where this new entrance Qin Yun found is! If he can obtain treasures from it, it''s unlikely we dragons can''t. If we can''t find out anything, ask the Myriad Temple and see if it knows."


    The Myriad Temple infiltrated the Four Seas'' Water race, humans, and fiendish demons. It naturally knew a lot of secrets.


    ¡­


    In a manor beneath the sea.


    A dark-red scaled flood dragon sat coiled. His dragon whiskers flailed freely as a projection in front of him depicted a fiendcelestial in the form of a black mist which had two curved horns on its head.


    The black-misted fiendcelestial said, "Response Wyrm, some information regarding Qin Yun''s Skydragon Blood Crystal has been obtained."


    "Speak," said the flood dragon.


    "Three years ago, two Yi family members were rescued by Qin Yun. They were sent back to Yi Water City''s Purple Cloud Palace," said the fiendcelestial. "The last known location of the two Yi family members'' disappearance is very close to the Ancient Skydragon Palace! It is likely that Qin Yun''s discovery of a new array formation entrance has to do with the two Yi family members. I believe if you question those two you will find answers."


    "Alright." The flood dragon nodded its head slightly.


    With that, the transmission was cut.


    The dark red-scaled flood dragon immediately arranged to investigate the two Yi family members. After all, a new array formation entrance represented astounding harvests! It was possible that Qin Yun did not take much from the new array formation entrance due to his limited strength.


    Up to that moment, the Myriad Temple did not know that Qin Yun had attained the purplish-gold Golden Core.


    Before he attained the purplish-gold Golden Core, Qin Yun was only considered ordinary among those at the Paramount realm. He could not even deal with the fiendmonsters produced by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm. But now? Qin Yun had obtained most of the treasures and he had stormed all the way to the inner palace complex where the Guardian General was!


    Finding someone below the level of immortal or fiendcelestial in the world that was stronger than Qin Yun was too difficult.


    ******


    The boundless sea.


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ao Xue were peering at the distant shoreline while they flew on a cloud. During the slow flight, Yi Xiao and Ao Xue gradually familiarized themselves with each other. They became a lot closer, and Yi Xiao started to call Ao Xue "Mom." Ao Xue was especially fond of the daughter she had not met in years.


    "Brother Yun, I plan to travel outside with my mom," said Yi Xiao. "For now, I¡¯ll not be returning to Grand Dominance."


    "Alright then." Qin Yun nodded. "Do you need me to go with you?"


    "There''s no need," rejected Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Let the two of them spend some time together.


    "Mother, do you need any protective items while you¡¯re out?" queried Qin Yun. His wife already had many extremely powerful life-preservation items.


    Ao Xue said with a smile, "During the years of my imprisonment, I have been cultivating arduously. Although I''m still very far from the True Dragon realm, I have already reached the intent domain realm! When we dragons reach the intent domain realm¡­ our strength is not much different from those at the Paramount realm."


    Qin Yun was surprised.


    His mother-in-law was quite an expert.


    "Mom, you have already reached the intent domain realm?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "We dragons can achieve the Connate Golden Core level very easily but it is because it''s so easy that few come to grasp the implications of the Heavenly Dao," explained Ao Xue. "After I was captured, I continued cultivating arduously amid my grief and figured out the implications of the Heavenly Dao. As such, over the past two decades or so, I was able to reach the intent domain realm."


    "Mother, you are probably ranked first or second among the younger generation of the West Sea Dragon race," praised Qin Yun.


    "I might barely make it into the top three," said Ao Xue.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The Dragon race was not inferior to the mutated strains like crocdragons. Dragons at the intent domain level could indeed match a Paramount realm in battle! With them being more adept fighting underwater, it allowed the Four Seas Dragon race to rule over the Four Seas.


    "Qin Yun, I have many places I would like to visit. Later on, I''ll go to Grand Dominance with Xiao''er," said Ao Xue.


    "It''s alright. Feel free to travel. I can find Xiaoxiao at any time," said Qin Yun immediately.


    Yi Xiao smiled. "Mom, let''s go. Brother Yun''s Beam Transformation Art can easily reach me within two hours if he wants to see me."


    Ao Xue nodded with a smile.


    She was very happy to see the deep relationship between her daughter and son-in-law.


    With that, Ao Xue and Yi Xiao rode a cloud and headed for the Kunlun Prefecture.


    Qin Yun watched them leave before turning to fly towards the Jiang Prefecture.

 215 Putting an End

    Chapter 215: Putting an End


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Kunlun Prefecture, a nameless lake.


    Ao Xue and Yi Xiao were walking alongside each other.


    "Caishi and I lived here back then." Ao Xue pointed at a collapsed straw hut. "This is also where you were born. The three of us were together, undisturbed by anyone. It was like an otherworldly paradise. I once thought that if the Dragon race could discover my marriage a little later, allowing me to spend a few decades with the both of you, it would be worth it even if I was imprisoned."


    "However, that day came too early. You were still young when the Dragon race discovered us." Ao Xue shook her head and sighed. "The matter was kept confidential among the West Sea Dragon race but they still informed Patriarch Yi."


    There were many immortals among the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands. Even places like Magistress Mountain and Scenic Mountain Sect had them. There was also a handful in the world that were conferred princely titles by the imperial government.


    From this point of view, it proved Patriarch Yi''s strength!


    Large factions like the Cloudfiend Mountain and West Sea Dragon race were even afraid of Patriarch Yi! As for Ancestral Master Zhang, who held an even higher status in the Divine Firmament Chapter, he was Patriarch Yi''s master! He had not only cultivated the best Daoist formulation, Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, to the highest realm, he was the one who created it. Furthermore, he had singlehandedly uplifted the Divine Firmament Chapter to the status of sacred land. The Divine Firmament Zhang family was in no way inferior to the royal family.


    "I didn''t have a chance to tell Caishi of the matter, nor was I allowed to leave a message or note before being taken away. And that separation ended up lasting more than twenty years," said Ao Xue. "It is all thanks to Qin Yun that I regained my freedom."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao looked carefully at the area. Had she spent her infancy here? She did not have any memory of it. She was just too young.


    "Xiao''er, I want to see Caishi," said Ao Xue.


    "He is currently with Princess Martial Maple," Yi Xiao could not help but say. She had already told her mother of her childhood, as well as what Yi Caishi had done and how he was with Princess Martial Maple now.


    "We have to meet. There is a need to resolve the situation after all," said Ao Xue.


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Alright then."


    Whoosh.


    The two rode a cloud and left the nameless lake, heading for the Kong Prefecture.


    ¡­


    At noon, Kong Prefecture''s Li City.


    Ao Xue and Yi Xiao descended from the sky and headed straight for a manor. Ao Xue could clearly see Yi Caishi and Princess Martial Maple there.


    They were in a garden, bantering in front of a canvas. Yi Caishi even laughed as he put a few strokes of his brush on Princess Martial Maple''s face while she frolicked with him.


    "Whoosh." Ao Xue and Yi Xiao landed.


    "Caishi." Ao Xue shouted.


    Princess Martial Maple and Yi Caishi looked up.


    Yi Caishi felt like a bolt had struck him out of the blue as he stared at the white-dressed woman standing beside Yi Xiao in a daze.


    "Xue¡­" Yi Caishi could not believe his eyes. All the deep repressed memories began to flood his brain.


    Princess Martial Maple was in greater disbelief. When she saw how much Ao Xue resembled Yi Xiao, as well as Yi Caishi''s reaction, she knew what was happening.


    "You are that slut?" Princess Martial Maple bellowed angrily.


    "Third Madam." Yi Caishi hurriedly spoke out to stop her.


    "Shut up!"


    Princess Martial Maple yelled angrily. "Slut, since you had the gall to come here, don''t you plan on leaving! I want to have a good chat with you!" As she spoke, the array formation began to activate. They were in her home, so she naturally wielded control of the array formation. Immediately, the array formation activated to trap Ao Xue and Yi Xiao.


    Ao Xue swept her gaze and waved her hand.


    "Boom!"


    A dragon''s roar sounded faintly.


    A gigantic golden dragon claw appeared out of nowhere as it tore apart the array formation and struck Princess Martial Maple, sending her flying to a corner. She was thrown onto a bed of flowers as she held her chest while spitting out blood.


    "Third Madam!"


    "Princess!"


    "Princess!" The experts from the manor rushed over. They usually would not disturb the princess, but they could sense this was an extreme situation.


    "Take down that slut for me." Princess Martial Maple pointed at Ao Xue. When the cultivation experts rushed over, Ao Xue swept her gaze across them with a frown. The golden dragon claw in midair swiped down at the cultivators with a whoosh, causing them to fly backward.


    Princess Martial Maple was stunned.


    "Seal." Ao Xue cast another Dharma spell.


    Immediately, Princess Martial Maple was completely bound. Even her Dharmic powers and mouth were restrained. She could not say a word.


    "Alright, there won''t be any more disturbances now." A simple cast of the Dragon race''s Dharma spells from Ao Xue was at the level of the Connate Golden Core intent domain realm. If she revealed her true form, she could be at the level of the Paramount realm. How could she be stopped by ordinary cultivators?


    When Yi Caishi saw that Princess Martial Maple was only looking nervous and furious but not injured, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Xue, you are back." Yi Caishi gave Ao Xue a conflicted look. Although he hated his wife for abandoning him and his daughter without a word, he recalled the sweet memories the moment he saw her again. He could not harden his heart anymore.


    "Caishi." Ao Xue looked at Yi Caishi. "I came here only to ask you the reason for your heartlessness towards Xiao''er. Don''t tell me that you were afraid of Princess Martial Maple''s threats. Your Yi family is a thousand-year-old family clan. Can it not protect Xiao''er?"


    Yi Caishi felt a jolt through his body as he muttered under his breath, "Xue, since you are asking me, I''ll tell you. Firstly, Xiao''er and I cannot live in the ancestral land forever. Xiao''er needs to experience a wider world, so I went to be with Third Madam. I made sure that she agreed not to attack Xiao''er. Secondly, I hated you for leaving us. I brought up Xiao''er alone and had to be both a mother and father to her. I hated you. Why did you leave? You left without a word and Third Madam never forgot me. Comparing her to you, I felt that I was being too selfish when I abandoned her back then."


    "I brought up Xiao''er till she was nine. By then, she was mature enough to not freeze or starve to death in the Yi family. Therefore, I left with Third Madam," said Yi Caishi.


    "Back when we were together, you never mentioned anything about this princess." Ao Xue stared at him.


    "Yes, I was being selfish. I was afraid that you would leave me if I told you," muttered Yi Caishi. "It was all my fault."


    "Yi Caishi, how could you be so heartless towards Xiao''er? I hate your guts. How could you let this Martial Maple do such a horrific thing to our daughter?" said Ao Xue angrily. "Thankfully Qin Yun was there to save her, or who knows what the outcome would have been?"


    "I¡­ I also¡­" Yi Caishi tried to say something but he could not finish his sentence.


    "Useless," berated Ao Xue angrily.


    When she heard that Princess Martial Maple had once sliced her daughter''s face, she had planned on a crueler torture. Thankfully, Yi Xiao was saved by Qin Yun. Ao Xue nearly went into a mindless rage when she learned of the matter. Yi Xiao had to persuade her against it as Qin Yun had already sought revenge for her.


    Ao Xue turned to look at Princess Martial Maple and extended her hand. She slapped Princess Martial Maple angrily dozens of times. It left the corner of Princess Martial Maple''s mouth covered with blood. Her face swelled and her eyes were filled with fury.


    "As a mother, I''m standing up for my daughter. If not for my son-in-law''s actions, do you think I''d spare you that easily?" Ao Xue''s eyes were filled with killing intent.


    "Xue." Yi Caishi immediately tried to put himself between them. "That''s enough. It''s really enough."


    Ao Xue looked at Yi Caishi and said, "Caishi, I''m asking you now. Do you want to follow this vicious bitch or do you want to leave with us?"


    Yi Caishi was taken aback.


    At that moment, his heart wavered! Daughter! Wife¡­


    The extremely infuriated Princess Martial Maple turned anxious at that moment. She looked at Yi Caishi nervously as tears streamed down noiselessly.


    As he looked at the nervous Princess Martial Maple''s red, tear-stained, and swollen face, as well as the marks he had left behind with a brush, Yi Caishi sighed lightly. He turned to look at Ao Xue. "Xue, I disappointed Third Madam back then. I cannot let her down again."


    Princess Martial Maple''s tearing eyes immediately gave a look of pleasant surprise.


    "After treating our daughter in such a manner, did you really think I would allow you to leave with us?" Ao Xue said coldly. "I was only testing you, to see what you would choose. Your choice has allowed me to think a little higher of you."


    With that said, Ao Xue undid the Sealing Spell.


    Princess Martial Maple was able to speak again as she rushed to Yi Caishi''s side. She hugged his arm tightly. "Caishi."


    "Third Madam, I won''t leave. It was my fault for letting you down back then," said Yi Caishi.


    Princess Martial Maple was truly and extremely touched.


    The slut had come but Caishi still chose her!


    At that moment, she felt completely relieved. Yi Caishi loved her the deepest.


    "I only want to be with Caishi and lead peaceful days." Princess Martial Maple looked at Ao Xue and Yi Caishi. "I will not bother any of you from now on."


    "Let''s go," said Ao Xue.


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    Whoosh.


    The mother-daughter duo left on a cloud.


    Yi Caishi watched from afar and then looked at Princess Martial Maple beside him. It was finally over!


    Princess Martial Maple''s dirty and swollen face was filled with sweetness.


    ¡­


    "Mom, you are crying." On the cloud, Yi Xiao looked at her mother.


    Ao Xue wiped her tears and said with a chuckle, "When I heard what he did to you, I knew it was impossible for me to be with him again. It''s better that he can be with Princess Martial Maple."


    "Then, where shall we go now?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Let''s travel the world, just the two of us." Ao Xue smiled at her daughter. She wanted to compensate her daughter for the time they lost. She was long disappointed with Yi Caishi and all she cared for was her daughter.


    "Alright, let''s travel the world. Just the two of us." Yi Xiao was happy as well.


    ¡­


    In Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance.


    Qin Yun was already back home, where he spent his time cultivating peacefully. Occasionally, he would chat with Yi Xiao. Regarding the duo''s travels, he was very assured since his mother-in-law was an existence that matched the Paramount realm.

 216 Jade Bottle

    Chapter 216: Jade Bottle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Cloud Prefecture, Azure Wing Gorge.


    Azure Wing Gorge was part of the biggest river in Cloud Prefecture, Goat County River. It spanned more than two hundred kilometers across. A famous great fiendish demon, Azure Wing Demon King, settled there. He wreaked havoc around the surrounding counties for more than a thousand years. This also gave Azure Wing Gorge its name.


    "Jade Bottle oh Jade Bottle. I have accumulated blood from children''s hearts for ten years. It''s enough to enhance my Fiendbody to the nineteenth level, right?" In a secret cave, Azure Wing Demon King stared at a ten-foot wide blood pond in the middle of the cave. Floating in the middle of the pond was a green jade bottle. The blood in the pond began to sink as strands of blood seeped into the jade bottle.


    "Haha, relax. Relax." The jade bottle produced a sharp voice as it shook. "When have I ever misled you? When I''m done absorbing this, I''ll naturally have the strength to aid you in enhancing your Fiendbody."


    He waited silently.


    About two hours later, the blood in the pond was completely sucked dry, leaving not one drop.


    Azure Wing Demon King beckoned for the jade bottle to fly into his hand.


    "Help me enhance my Fiendbody." Azure Wing Demon King''s eyes looked cold.


    "Alright, alright, alright. I''ll help you now."


    Immediately, an extremely pure power was transmitted from inside the jade bottle. Azure Wing Demon King began circulating his Dharmic formulations. The pure power naturally melded into his body and aided his cultivation. Azure-colored armor made of scales appeared on the surface of Azure Wing Demon King''s body. It was filled with profound runic patterns as a terrifying power constantly reshaped his body.


    An hour later.


    "Boom." The jade bottle stopped transmitting power to Azure Wing Demon King as a powerful aura blasted out of the cave from his body.


    "Alright, I''m tired. I need to rest. Don''t seek me for at least another year." The jade bottle''s voice sounded weak.


    "Sure thing. Jade Bottle, have a good rest. I''ll seek you out again when I gather enough heart blood of children for the next Fiendbody level." Azure Wing Demon King smiled with squinted eyes. He was clearly in an extremely good mood after having his strength improved. He waved his hand and placed the jade bottle in the dried-up blood pond. The blood pond sank with a rumble underground before it was sealed by layers of array formations.


    "It''s best to ensure that no one interacts with this jade bottle." Azure Wing Demon King narrowed his yellow eyes that were filled with dread. "I come into contact with it occasionally to enhance my Fiendbody but it has to be sealed at all other times! I cannot allow a chance for it might make contact with any other sentient being in the outside world."


    "Hmph, I have long prepared enough ingredients to make a sacrifice to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial! Once my Fiendbody raises to the twentieth level, I can undergo a ritual to break through to the twenty-first level instantly. When that happens, my strength will undergo a qualitative change. I will be able to match the Paramount realm. And then, I will finally be able carefully probe the secret of the jade bottle." Azure Wing Demon King sneered. "I can¡¯t afford to let Jade Bottle take action at the critical moment I break through to the twenty-first level."


    Although his strength had increased rapidly after obtaining the jade bottle, Azure Wing Demon King dreaded it immensely. He was wary every time he used it.


    "Your Majesty!" A voice sounded from outside. "Cultivators are attacking us!"


    "Oh?"


    Azure Wing Demon King was shocked, and then revealed a look of anger. He sealed his cultivation ground and charged out.


    ¡­


    High above Azure Wing Gorge.


    Yi Xiao and Ao Xue were standing in midair beside each other. They were looking down at the demon lair with furious expressions.


    "I was wondering who would be so daring as to attack me." Accompanied by a resounding voice, Azure Wing Demon King flew out of the mountain and looked at Yi Xiao and Ao Xue. "So it''s you, Madam Qin! Why? Does Sword Immortal Qin plan on attacking me in his bid to rid evil from the world? Where is he now?"


    As he spoke, Azure Wing Demon King observed his surroundings.


    He was not afraid at all.


    As a great fiendish demon at the intent domain level, he might be a little afraid of Qin Yun if they were fighting out in the world. But now, he was in his own lair. Qin Yun''s attacks would be weakened if he tried to attack when so many array formations were aiding him. His newfound strength, augmented by the array formations, made him unafraid of Qin Yun.


    "Why is there a need for my husband to deal with you?" said Yi Xiao angrily. "Demon King, you have cultivated for more than a thousand years yet you remain so crazy? How many children from the surrounding counties have perished under your hand?"


    Yi Xiao and Ao Xue had passed through the area and learned of Azure Wing Demon King''s insanity. He was a lot more terrifying than Water God of Grand Dominance from several years back.


    Azure Wing Demon King was fearless as long as he was in his lair.


    Therefore, his actions were crazier and he had a lot more demons under his command than Water God.


    "I''m a great fiendish demon, so what''s wrong with eating a few boys and girls?" Azure Wing Demon King laughed out and thought nothing of it.


    "Xiao''er, there''s no need to waste time talking with him." Ao Xue was also incensed. Perhaps it was because she had been separated from her baby daughter that her heart pained for the lost human babies. Ao Xue''s eyes similarly turned red after knowing that many children, as well as babies, had perished at Azure Wing Demon¡¯s hand.


    "Azure Wing Demon King, die."


    Ao Xue waved her hand.


    The sky darkened and a strong wind howled in response. Sharp ice blades within the wind began slashing in every direction wantonly.


    "What a ruthless attack." Azure Wing Demon King was alarmed as he immediately activated his lair''s array formation. Instantly, the array formation enveloped the surrounding mountains.


    Both sides began fighting in earnest.


    Ao Xue had shown her true form. She flew in midair as a silver-scaled dragon. She either cast Dharma spells, swiped her claw or lashed out with her tail. All Azure Wing Demon King could do was hide inside the array formation and resist her with it. Occasionally, he would sneak in an attack or two.


    "What does my eating of humans have to do with a dragon like you?" Azure Wing Demon King roared as he hid inside his array formation. The other demons did not dare get involved.


    True members of the Dragon race were of esteemed statuses. They were the leaders of the massive Four Seas. They naturally could reach the Connate Golden Core level easily and their strength matched that of mutated strains, allowing their combat strength to be at the intent domain level.


    "Keep hiding if you can," bellowed the silver-scaled dragon in the sky. Following that, her body spun and transformed into Ao Xue and floated beside Yi Xiao.


    Azure Wing Demon King peered at Yi Xiao and Ao Xue through the array formations. He said in surprise, "Madam Qin, you and that dragon elder look alike. The Dragon race is pure-blooded and does not share the Yi family''s bloodline. Could it be that Madam Qin possesses a dragon bloodline? Is she your mother or your senior?"


    "Why do you even care?" shot back Ao Xue. "With me here, don''t you dare think you¡¯ll be continuing with your evil ways. From now on, I''ll kill any demon that exits Azure Wing Gorge."


    Azure Wing Demon King turned nervous when he heard that.


    A dragon that matched the Paramount realm was watching him. And if the dragon really did keep her promise to kill any demon that exited, how could he amass the required blood from the children''s hearts?


    He was feeling anxious but he laughed loudly and said, "Hahaha, As a member of the Dragon race, you actually want to enter conflict with a demon like me. Sure, go ahead. Blockade this place as much as you want. I was just planning on entering two or three centuries of seclusive cultivation! If you have what it takes, stay out here and watch for two or three centuries."


    Ao Xue was taken aback when she heard that. She wanted to spend time with her daughter, so how could she stand guard outside for more than a hundred years?


    "Oh, by the way." Azure Wing Demon King scanned his surroundings. "Madam Qin, where is Sword Immortal Qin? Haha, the two of you are actually willing to be apart for so long? Hahaha, anyways, I''ll be entering seclusion now. Excuse me."


    With that said, Azure Wing Demon King turned and descended into his lair.


    And in midair, Ao Xue and Yi Xiao were left feeling somewhat anxious.


    "This Demon King is powerful," commented Ao Xue. "He''s at the intent domain level just like me. Although he is of ordinary birth and definitely weaker than me in a fight, I can''t do a thing to him when he hides in his lair."


    "I''ll tell Brother Yun," said Yi Xiao.


    "Son-in-law?" Ao Xue asked puzzledly. "Qin Yun is also a Paramount realm sword immortal and shouldn''t be that much better than me. He too would be powerless to do a thing to this Demon King, right?"


    "Mom," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Brother Yun is a lot stronger than you think. In this world, among all those below the level of immortals, only that old monk from Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery and the great fiendish demon from the northern lands, existences who have stepped into the Dao, are equal to Brother Yun in strength."


    "He matches existences that have stepped into the Dao?" Ao Xue was astonished.


    In terms of realms, Qin Yun was naturally inferior.


    But Qin Yun was at a level higher when it came to Dharmic powers. Those two existences that had stepped into the Dao apparently did not have heaven-defying Dao, so Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers could bridge the gap.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance, Qin Manor, beside the tiny mirror lake.


    Qin Yun was sitting cross-legged on the grass as two sword beams were whistling through the sky above the lake a distance away.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun felt something as he beckoned with his hand. The two sword beams flashed and appeared in his hands.


    Buzz.


    A projection appeared and it was none other than Yi Xiao and Ao Xue.


    "Brother Yun," greeted Yi Xiao.


    "Xiaoxiao, it''s been two days. How was your tour of the Cloud Prefecture?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Brother Yun, are you not planning on dealing with fiendish demons after attaining your purplish-gold Golden Core?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Of course I have plans," said Qin Yun. "I plan on choosing a powerful great fiendish demon to slay. However, the moment I take action, my strength will be exposed. Every fiendish demon in the world would know of it, therefore I only have one chance."


    In fact, Qin Yun wished to deal with Nine Mountain Island Lord the most.


    However, he had cast Samsara on Nine Mountain Island Lord previously. It was a strike at the Infinite Converging Sword level and all it did was injure Nine Mountain Island Lord. Ordinary flying sword arts posed no threat at all.


    Although Nine Mountain Island was only a great fiendish demon at the intent domain level, his true form was a mountain! Among the fiendish demons that had besieged Qin Yun, Nine Mountain Island Lord''s strength was only beneath the three Paramount realm fiendish demons like Patriarch Crocdragon. And in terms of life-preservation means, he was not inferior to the three of them. If he were to hide in his lair, under the protection of his array formations, Qin Yun only had a ten to twenty percent chance of killing him.


    There was a higher possibility of failure!


    "There''s a great fiendish demon that has wreaked a lot of havoc. His cruelty is known throughout the world," said Yi Xiao. "I think you should choose him."


    "Which great fiendish demon is it?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Azure Wing Demon King," answered Yi Xiao.

 217 Ridding Demons from Cloud Prefecture

    Chapter 217: Ridding Demons from Cloud Prefecture


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Azure Wing Demon King?" Qin Yun was surprised. "Since when do his atrocities rank highly among all the great fiendish demons in the world?"


    He had intelligence and records that indicated that Azure Wing Demon King was only relatively normal among the great fiendish demons.


    "Brother Yun, Azure Wing Demon King''s acts of terror were restrained in the past but in recent decades, he had become more ruthless and maniacal. On the surface, it looks like his subordinates were responsible, but after Mom and I investigated the matter, we traced it all to him, Azure Wing Demon King!" said Yi Xiao. "The Inspector Heavenly Alliance is probably helpless against Azure Wing Demon King so they have not pursued the matter carefully."


    "Tell me what he has done," asked Qin Yun.


    "He has become increasingly maniacal in recent decades, especially this year. He secretly sent his subordinates to abduct human children. He¡¯s abducted even more children than Water God did in Grand Dominance. Furthermore, several of the surrounding counties have suffered because of him," said Yi Xiao anxiously. "Just the harm he has brought children in one year is enough to match the harm Water God did for more than ten years."


    Qin Yun''s expression changed instantly. Every child had a family. The Qin family was a victim of demons in the past.


    Qin Yun would occasionally have nightmares depicting scenes of his younger sister being taken away up to this very day.


    Qin Yun said, "I''ll meet up with you tomorrow morning."


    ¡­


    Cloud Prefecture, Goat County River. A tiny boat was cruising down the river.


    On the boat was Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ao Xue.


    "The Jiang Prefecture is south of the river and survives through fishing and rice plantations. It also neighbors the East Sea so there are many imperial troops and the Godfiend Guard stationed along the coastline," said Qin Yun. "Humans hold the advantage over the entire Jiang Prefecture but it''s a lot more complicated in the Cloud Prefecture. The human faction is the top cultivation sect, Black Turtle Palace. As a subsidiary, it is backed by the Daoist sacred land, Primordial Chaos Sect. Deep in the mountains, there are many tribes with hints of Gu magi. Those Gu magi are also disciples of Magistress Mountain."


    Magistress Mountain was among the Myriad Mountains and it was mainly in Dragon Mountain Prefecture.


    And bordering the Myriad Mountains were the Shu and Cloud Prefectures. Similarly, there were instances of Magistress Mountain disciples appearing there but most of them remained reclusive in the mountains.


    "Standing on the human side are Black Turtle Palace and the Magistress Mountain disciples." Qin Yun felt wistful. "However, the demons are a lot stronger. They have the Boor Ancestral Sect of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, the Water race faction, Nine Caves Water Abode, and the Myriad Demon Mountain that is subordinate to the Heavenly Demon Palace.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect, a faction of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, had existed since ancient times.


    The Nine Caves Water Abode was located in Nine Caves Lake, which was connected to the largest lake in the world, the Po Cloud Lake in the Po Prefecture. However, the Nine Caves Water Abode was united. The Nine Caves Abode Master was an ancient Water race existence that even the Four Seas Dragon race did not dare slight. The Nine Caves Water Abode''s strength was on par with the Boor Ancestral Sect. It was also considered the second strongest faction of the Water race, right after the Four Seas Dragon race.


    Myriad Demon Mountain was mainly the cultivation ground of Patriarch Myriad Demon from the Heavenly Demon Palace. Patriarch Myriad Demon was addressed as Demon Master by countless demons in Heavenly Demon Palace. Myriad Demon Mountain was just one of the subsidiaries of Heavenly Demon Palace but was in no way inferior to any of the lineages of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. As for Heavenly Demon Palace? That was no doubt the best faction of all the demons!


    "Humans truly suffer in the Cloud Prefecture," added Yi Xiao. "The demons are too strong."


    "It''s mainly a result of the topography," explained Qin Yun. "The Cloud Prefecture has many mountains and lakes! Humans find it hard to survive in such places so they are naturally where demons choose to entrench themselves. Other than the Nine Caves Water Abode''s Boor Ancestral Sect, there''s the Water race''s Nine Caves Water Abode and the Myriad Demon Mountain," said Qin Yun. "Thankfully, Patriarch Myriad Demon is here to reign in the demons or the Boor Ancestral Sect would be a lot stronger."


    "The Jiang Prefecture survives on fishing and rice plantations. It has few mountains and lakes. Consequently, there are relatively fewer demons," said Qin Yun wistfully.


    The environment determined the kind of entities that dominated an area.


    For example, the northern lands were particularly harsh. Humans found it impossible to settle and live there. Only demons with tenacious vitality could thrive there, and so occupied a massive region in the north. With so many demons, they formed the northern demon horde! Many of the imperial government''s troops were stationed in the north to fend them off.


    "Yea, here they come." Qin Yun looked up.


    "Are they people from the Black Turtle Palace?" Yi Xiao and Ao Xue looked up as well.


    An assortment of light streams flew over. Leading them was a goateed man with a sword slung behind his back. The Black Turtle Palace was a subsidiary of the Primordial Chaos Sect. Although many of them cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage, it was also common for them to fight with sabers or swords in close combat.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." The goateed man cupped his hands in front of him when he reached a spot not far from the boat. The Black Turtle Palace disciples behind him bowed as well. These disciples were all at the Connate realm, with most of them at the False Core and True Core. Leading them was a Connate Golden Core cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Yan." Qin Yun got up to bow. Yi Xiao and Ao Xue also stood up.


    "Sorry for troubling you, Daoist Yan," said Qin Yun again.


    "Haha, I should be thanking Sword Immortal Qin," said the goateed man immediately. "My Black Turtle Palace calls the Cloud Prefecture home and it pains us that there are so many fiendish demons wreaking havoc here. However, there are some fiendish demons that our Black Turtle Palace are powerless against! This Azure Wing Demon King entrenches himself in Azure Wing Gorge and terrorizes several surrounding counties. His strength is even higher than mine. As long as he hides behind his lair''s array formations, there is almost no cultivator in the world that can put him in his place. Now that Sword Immortal Qin is willing to take action, our Cloud Prefecture and its countless commoners are blessed."


    "In a while, I will rid you of Azure Wing Demon King and the other powerful fiendish demons. The remaining demons will be left to my fellow Daoists from the Black Turtle Palace," said Qin Yun.


    "Haha, cleaning up the remnants is very easy for us. However, Azure Wing Demon King is very powerful so Sword Immortal Qin, you have to be careful," said the goateed man.


    "Fellow Daoists, just watch from the side," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright, we will stay by the side and wait for Sword Immortal Qin''s command," said the goateed man.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Sou!


    The boat he was on was not paddled by anyone but the boat accelerated greatly and headed towards Azure Wing Gorge.


    According to the rules of engagement that Qin Yun followed, he was responsible for slaying the powerful fiendish demons. As for eradicating the remaining evil, he left it to the local cultivation sects! After all, there were countless lesser demons and cleaning up the mess was just a tedious triviality. Large sects had many disciples so they could naturally clean up the mess. And the local sects were happy to do so.


    That was because the Inspector Heavenly Alliance was meant to deal with fiendish demons.


    Dealing with fiendish demons was a meritorious act!


    Qin Yun slew great fiendish demons and earned great merits. By cleaning up the mess, the local sects also received partial merits. Although it was lesser, it was also easier! Furthermore, they could do their part to bring happiness to the commoners.


    ¡­


    The convoy from Black Turtle Palace rode a cloud as they watched the tiny boat head for Azure Wing Gorge.


    "Although Sword Immortal Qin is a Paramount realm sword immortal, Azure Wing Demon King is a famous great demon king in our Cloud Prefecture. He''s also hiding in his lair. Can Sword Immortal Qin really kill him?"


    "There is probably no cultivator in the world that can destroy an old demon king like Azure Wing Demon King."


    The Black Turtle Palace disciples discussed.


    Although they had the means to deal with fiendish demons, they had long ignored those at Azure Wing Demon King''s level. After all, they could not kill him no matter how hard they tried. All they could do was turn a blind eye towards him!


    "Alright," said the goateed man. "Since Sword Immortal Qin requested our Black Turtle Palace to watch from the side, he probably has some confidence."


    "I do wish that Sword Immortal Qin will kill the demon but I don''t really pin any hopes on him. After all, Azure Wing Demon King is one of the top-ranked great fiendish demons in the world."


    "Perhaps he has some special plan?"


    The other disciples remarked.


    The goateed man nodded and said, "He should have a special plan. If not, a frontal assault by a Paramount realm existence will not be able to kill Azure Wing Demon King. Let''s go. We should follow them."


    Whoosh.


    The group of cultivators from the Black Turtle Palace rapidly headed for Azure Wing Gorge.


    As for Qin Yun, he led his wife and mother-in-law on the boat. The boat was a Dharma treasure and was extremely fast. It had already entered the confines of the Azure Wing Gorge.


    Moments later.


    "Creak." The boat slowed down and let the waters bring it forward.


    Qin Yun stood at the bow with his hands behind his back. He looked at the tall mountains on both sides of the riverbanks and said with a smile, "This Azure Wing Demon King sure is careful. We did not encounter any obstacles our entire way in. His lair is right in front of us. Xiaoxiao, Mother, watch me deal with this demon king."


    He obviously did not think up any special plans. The lair''s array formations were controlled by the demon king himself so there was no way to pull any tricks.


    If he wanted to kill him, he had to do it with overwhelming strength in a frontal assault.


    "Let''s see what means Brother Yun will employ." Yi Xiao was looking forward to it. Ao Xue was also watching with a smile.


    "It would be quite embarrassing if I failed to kill him. Haha." Qin Yun laughed but he was feeling very relaxed. Azure Wing Demon King was relatively normal among the fiendish demons at the intent domain level. He was not unique like Nine Mountain Island Lord who had a mountain as his true form. Qin Yun believed that he could definitely slay him as long as nothing out of the ordinary happened.


    ¡­


    At that moment in Azure Wing Gorge, in the fiendish demon''s lair.


    Many demons were watching nervously from afar.


    "These two bitches are like haunting ghosts that refuse to leave." Through the array formation, Azure Wing Demon King could see the boat cruising down the river a distance away. He also saw the young man standing at the boat''s bow. "Now even that Qin Yun is here. Hmph, so what if he is here? That dragon lady can''t do a thing to me. An additional Qin Yun would similarly be helpless against me."


    Azure Wing Demon King''s eyes flickered with bloodlust but he also became more careful.


    When all was said and done, the dragon lady and Qin Yun were two existences with combat strength at the Paramount realm.

 218 Azure Wing Demon Kings Despair

    Chapter 218: Azure Wing Demon King''s Despair


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At the bow of the boat, Qin Yun looked up and took in the beautiful scenery. However, the view was soon ruined by demonic auras that shot into the sky from the depths of the mountains up ahead. Commoners did not dare pass by this spot on boat. They would rather go around the area through other rivers because everyone knew that a terrifying great demon lurked there.


    "Qin Yun, I have no feud with you, nor do I have any intention of make you my enemy. If you stand down, I, Azure Wing, will remember this favor of yours." The world seemed to be producing a deep and majestic voice that resonated within Azure Wing Gorge.


    "You wish to gain my favor but then countless commoners would suffer even more," said Qin Yun as he stood there and observed the array formation. His voice echoed throughout the valley. "To me, it''s best if great fiendish demons like you fear me."


    "It is not easy for us to cultivate. Are you really going to risk your life by fighting me for those ant-like mortals?" The voice rumbled through the world.


    "Those meager tricks of yours cannot threaten me." Qin Yun chuckled.


    "What impudence!"


    An angry cry followed.


    The surrounding slow river flow was agitated abruptly by of the array formations'' powers. Six gigantic black snakes appeared out from the water and each of them swam through the air extremely fast. They possessed terrifying might as they began attacking the boat from all sides.


    "Black Snake Array?" Qin Yun stood at the bow of the boat as a flying sword flew out from his sleeve. In an instant, it coruscated several times and vanquished the black snakes completely.


    "What? How can the Black Snake Array pose no threat and be instantly cracked? Previously, that dragon lady took seven or eight attacks to crack it." Azure Wing Demon King, who was watching from the mountain, was surprised. Other than preserving his life, his lair''s array formations could be used to counterattack! His Azure Wing Gorge''s most famous counterattack array formation was the Black Snake Array. Under his control, its strength was extraordinary.


    "Is that all you got?" Qin Yun stood at the bow of the boat and looked up at the distant towering mountain.


    Sou!


    The gray and blurry Seven Kills Sword that destroyed the six black snakes instantly flew towards the sky and headed for the mountain.


    To Qin Yun, using the first-grade Seven Kills Sword against his enemy was a form of respect. After all, at the level of immortals and fiendcelestials, one would typically use first-grade Dharma treasures if they lacked an intrinsic Dharma treasure. As for the Dharmic powers'' expenditure of the Seven Kills Sword, it was nothing worth mentioning for the present Qin Yun.


    "What, a direct attack?"


    "Why is he doing it so crudely?"


    The Black Turtle Palace cultivators that were riding clouds a distance away gaped in shock. Everyone knew that Azure Wing Demon King was a great fiendish demon at the intent domain realm! In his lair, even existences at the Paramount realm could not kill him.


    Therefore, the Black Turtle Palace cultivators had believed that Qin Yun invited them to clean up the mess because he had some confidence! He probably had some particularly unique plan such as using poison. Or perhaps, he was colluding with someone from the inside?


    But all they saw now was Qin Yun sending out one flying sword!


    "Presumptuous!"


    Azure Wing Demon King phased his body and instantly became hundreds of feet tall. He was covered with a layer of azure-colored scales and azure-colored wings spread out behind him. His body suffused a black fiendish aura.


    He also cultivated a Fiendbody and was naturally powerful at close combat.


    "You are trying to storm through the array formation with brute force?" Azure Wing Demon King''s yellow pupils were filled with scorn. "I might be a little afraid of you outside but why should I fear you inside my own array formation?"


    "Kill!"


    Azure Wing Demon King instantly drew his saber.


    The saber was several hundred feet long and the array formations'' powers gathered on it, forming blinding saber flashes that extended thousands of feet. The saber flashes were massive, like towering mountains as they struck at the flying sword that approached.


    The Seven Kills Sword streaked through the sky and entered the demonic lair. Qin Yun commanded it with his mind and the flying sword''s might increased exponentially.


    "Boom!" The earth itself quaked as the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers condensed sword flashes in response. More than a hundred sword flashes fused with the flying sword, turning into a blinding sword flash that resembled a swimming dragon. Compared to Azure Wing Demon King''s domineering and mighty saber flashes, Qin Yun''s flying sword beam was more restrained.


    At the instant the two parties clashed, the thousand-foot-long saber flash shattered instantly, revealing the battle saber''s true form.


    Azure Wing Demon King was sent flying thousands of feet back after being struck by the immense momentum. He crashed into a mountain peak behind him, causing the mountain to rumble. Parts of it even collapsed.


    "Pfft." Azure Wing Demon King vomited a mouthful of blood as his eyes filled with shock and fear.


    "I have the array formations augmenting me. Why can''t I block his attacks?" Azure Wing Demon King found it unbelievable. However, he clearly felt the immense might contained in the flying sword that overwhelmed him during the clash from before.


    "Boom!"


    The dragon-like sword beam had already entered the demonic lair.


    Although it was obstructed by layers of array formations, Qin Yun was forcibly cracking it with overwhelming strength. The array formations were unable to veer Qin Yun''s flying sword and were barely able to even impede it, weakening it by twenty to thirty percent.


    It was very easy for an array formation to weaken momentum. For example, a flying sword''s strength would naturally reduce while underwater due to the impediment of the water. By the same logic, an array formation might not be able to completely ward off an attack but it could impede the flying sword and reduce its strength.


    But Azure Wing Demon King was still unable to withstand the strike even after it was weakened by twenty to thirty percent.


    "It''s coming."


    Azure Wing Demon King held his battle saber as his yellow pupils filled with madness. With his many array formations augmenting him, he proceeded forward maniacally to receive the attack.


    "It''s impossible for existences at the Paramount realm to kill me when I''m inside the array formations. Impossible!" Azure Wing Demon King swung his saber with all his might to receive the strike. The saber flash was so mighty that even the remnant blasts injured many lesser demons. However, Azure Wing Demon King no longer cared about them.


    "Ah, flee for your lives."


    "Quick, dodge!"


    The lesser demons scattered amid the chaos. They tried to hide as far away as they could. The remnant blasts from a battle at that level could annihilate them easily.


    The massive Azure Wing Demon King that stood hundreds of feet tall brandished his saber with all his strength but it appeared clumsy and laughable in front of the blinding dragon-like sword flash.


    Boom! Boom!


    The flying sword beam continued its relentless assault.


    Azure Wing Demon King brandished his battle saber twice consecutively but the sword beam was too fast and unpredictable the third time. Azure Wing Demon King''s saber missed, allowing the sword beam to instantly penetrate his body.


    "Ah!" Azure Wing Demon King immediately cried out in pain.


    He cultivated in a Fiendbody so he naturally had tenacious vital strength.


    "This flying sword is too fast. It''s very demanding for me to stop it. I can block it twice but I can''t block it a third time." Azure Wing Demon King felt a horrific unease.


    Qin Yun''s flying sword was far more esoteric than Azure Wing Demon King''s means.


    Now, with the purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers, it was just as profound but also much faster and stronger! The difficulty needed to fend off its attack had naturally risen. The reason why he could even block it twice was that the array formations had affected its speed.


    "Swoosh." The sword beam tore through Azure Wing Demon King''s back and curved a distance away before it came back for another strike.


    "I can''t allow this to continue." The wounds on his body healed but Azure Wing Demon King was horrified. "A few more strikes and I''m dead."


    "Flee!"


    Sou!


    As Azure Wing Demon King controlled the array formation to block the attack with all his might, he flapped his wings and rapidly tore through the sky.


    His flying arts were extremely impressive.


    "He''s escaping."


    "Azure Wing Demon King is escaping."


    The Black Turtle Palace cultivators watching from afar were astounded. They saw a massive figure fly out and its massive azure-colored wings blocked out the mountain. With a reverberation, it tore through the sky and transformed into a dot across the distant horizons.


    He fled and abandoned his lair?


    He didn''t even care about the lair''s array formations! Clearly, the array formations could not withstand Qin Yun.


    "How is it possible? Azure Wing Demon King cannot be killed by someone at the Paramount realm when he''s protected by his lair''s array formations."


    "However, Qin Yun''s flying sword flew right in and, with a few strikes, sent Azure Wing Demon King fleeing?" The Black Turtle Palace cultivators were stupefied. Many cultivators even had a thought rise up in their minds. "Existences at the Paramount realm can''t do that. Could Qin Yun no longer be at the Paramount realm?"


    ¡­


    The spectators were shocked.


    Qin Yun showed no mercy.


    "Do you think you can escape?" With a thought from Qin Yun, a sword beam that resembled a swimming dragon bolted into the sky and tore through the sky in pursuit.


    Sword immortals were capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They were best at attacking!


    The flying sword''s speed itself was a very important aspect. It also had a long range and even if a sword immortal remained still, the flying sword could pursue hundreds of kilometers, resulting in the tremendous awe a sword immortal inspired.


    To compete in speed with Qin Yun''s flying sword?


    There were only a handful of beings in the world capable of doing so and that list clearly did not include Azure Wing Demon King.


    "No good, it''s chasing up to me." Azure Wing Demon King turned his head and saw the sword beam already behind him. Without his lair''s array formation impeding it, the flying sword''s might was more obvious. It was stronger, faster, more ferocious, and more unpredictable. Azure Wing Demon King did not have any confidence in blocking it. This made him feel a sense of despair. "I, Azure Wing, have reigned for a thousand years. Am I going to die at Qin Yun''s hand today?"

 219 He must have stepped into the Dao!

    Chapter 219: He must have stepped into the Dao!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Azure Wing Demon King suddenly halted in midair and instantly turned, brandishing his saber. A saber flash filled with bloodlust hummed as it blocked the flying sword.


    "Master, save me! Save me!" Azure Wing Demon King contacted his master through his transmission treasure. His master was a fiendcelestial from the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Save you? Where are you?" inquired the fiendcelestial.


    "I''m at Azure Wing Gorge," replied Azure Wing Demon King anxiously.


    "Who is capable of killing you at Azure Wing Gorge?"


    "It''s Qin Yun! Sword Immortal Qin is extremely powerful. I can''t even defend against him inside of my array formations. He must have stepped into the Dao! He has entered the Dao!" Azure Wing Demon King replied with a voice transmission hysterically.


    "Qin Yun has stepped into the Dao?" His master was alarmed. "Are you sure?"


    Boom!


    Azure Wing Demon King already found it difficult to fend off the flying sword under the augmentation of his array formations. Now, with the flying sword attacking him outside, it was much faster, more unpredictable, and profounder than before. Azure Wing Demon King''s frantic strike from his saber missed completely.


    A reverberating hum followed as the Seven Kills Sword directly tore through Azure Wing Demon King''s chest, ripping open a gigantic bloody hole. His bones and flesh were instantly pulverized.


    "Thankfully I moved my heart away." Azure Wing Demon King was still reeling in fear.


    "Boom!"


    The Seven Kills Sword brushed across him once more, cleaving apart half of Azure Wing Demon King''s body. A portion of his flesh was ground into nothingness but soon, flesh and bone began to rapidly grow from his wounds, healing them. Although Azure Wing Demon King had moved his vital heart elsewhere to avoid the strikes, his lifeforce was being depleted rapidly. He knew that he would die from having his lifeforce completely drained after a few more strikes.


    "Qin Yun, spare me! Spare me and I''ll tell you a huge secret." Azure Wing Demon King sent the Seven Kills Sword a voice transmission. As the attacks were coming in fast and furious, he had no time to vocalize it slowly.


    "What''s the secret?" The Seven Kills Sword halted by the side.


    "A treasure, a mysterious treasure," said Azure Wing Demon King with a voice transmission. "It''s definitely not inferior to a first-grade Dharma treasure. It might even match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    "Speak." The Dharmic powers contained within the Seven Kills Sword sent Qin Yun¡¯s voice transmission.


    "You have to swear on your parents and wife''s lives that you will not harm me at all and let me off if I tell you," said Azure Wing Demon King with a frantic voice transmission. "I''ll tell you only after you make that vow. If not, I''ll take it to my grave and that treasure will remain something you¡¯ll never be able to find."


    "Boom!"


    The Seven Kills Sword transformed into a dragon-like beam that flashed past Azure Wing Demon King''s body. This time, other sword flashes also inundated Azure Wing Demon King, shredding the heart he was carefully protecting. There was no other way for it to happen. The flying sword beam that Qin Yun cast was too large. It was a beam formed from hundreds of sword flashes and it was a hundred feet wide. There was nowhere for Azure Wing Demon King to hide his heart.


    "No¡ª" Azure Wing Demon King stared with widened eyes as his heart was shattered. "Does he not care about treasure at all?"


    Azure Wing Demon King only knew that the jade bottle was odd but, in order to survive, he claimed that it was a first-grade Dharma treasure or a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    "You want me to swear on my family''s lives?" Qin Yun burned with killing intent. Azure Wing Demon King''s body began returning to its true form. It was a gigantic mantis demon.


    ¡­


    Standing on the boat, Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ao Xue looked into the distant horizon.


    As they watched the mountain-like mantis corpse plummet to the ground, they felt a mix of emotions.


    "This is the first great fiendish demon at the intent domain realm that I have killed," thought Qin Yun. Previously, he had killed Temple Lord Ruyi and Valley Lord Windhark but they were only ordinary great fiendish demons. Apart from having weaker strength and life preservation means, Azure Wing Demon King was a fiendish demon at the same level as Nine Mountain Island Lord. He was one of the higher ranking ones among the Boor Ancestral Sect''s great fiendish demons.


    "Great," said Yi Xiao. "You did a great job killing him! Brother Yun, I wanted to kill this great fiendish demon after seeing how countless people and their families suffered under him. Unfortunately, I lack the strength."


    "Qin Yun, you are indeed a lot stronger than me," said Ao Xue with a smile.


    And on the other side.


    In midair, The Black Turtle Palace cultivators were completely dumbfounded.


    The massive mantis corpse left them in a daze.


    "That Azure Wing Demon King has finally died?" There were even cultivators that teared up. "He''s finally dead. The¡­ The day of his death has actually come! I always thought there would never be a chance for revenge."


    "The darn Azure Wing Demon King is finally dead. Haha, it''s great that he''s dead."


    "This Qin Yun is way too powerful."


    Azure Wing Demon King had wreaked havoc for more than a thousand years in the surrounding counties.


    Many of the local cultivators had feuds with him! However, they saw no hope and had long abandoned the thought of seeking revenge.


    "Impressive. Sword Immortal Qin cracked the array formation with overwhelming force. His flying sword barged through the array formation and caused Azure Wing Demon King to flee in panic. And before he could escape too far, he was rapidly slain by the flying sword," said the goateed man wistfully. "With that strength, does it mean he has really stepped into the Dao?"


    ¡­


    The Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was constantly monitoring the world so the battle in the skies above the Cloud Prefecture''s Azure Wing Gorge was naturally detected by it.


    "Oh?"


    Inside the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror''s hall, two Daoists responsible for manning the area watched the battle scenes in astonishment.


    "A flying sword barged through the array formation and in two or three strikes frightened Azure Wing Demon King enough to make him escape. Then he was killed before he could escape far?" The two Daoists looked at each other.


    "Azure Wing Demon King is a great fiendish demon at the intent domain realm. He was at an utter disadvantage despite being in his lair. Could Sword Immortal Qin have stepped into the Dao?"


    It was a very ordinary conjecture.


    Although stepping into the Dao was very difficult, there were people who managed to do so every generation. For example, there was the human reverend from Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery before Qin Yun. There was also the great fiendish demon in the northern lands. Both of them had stepped into the Dao.


    Instead¡­


    Cultivating a purplish-gold Golden Core was much more improbable.


    Of course, there were disparities among those who had stepped into the Dao. Many of those who stepped into the Dao grasped a superficial Dao, and that was relatively weaker. It was even difficult for some of them to condense an Essence Soul to become immortal.


    If the Dao they grasped was powerful, it would be easy to become immortal.


    For example, the Dao Elder Sword grasped was too powerful. If the lineage of sword immortals had a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul, Elder Sword could have rapidly become an immortal with his foundations! Even though he failed to become immortal, he was able to leapfrog a level and kill a fiendcelestial with his terrifying Dao.


    "He reached the Paramount realm only a few years ago but he''s already stepped into the Dao?"


    "Let''s quickly report the matter."


    The two Daoists did not dare hesitate any further. They immediately reported the matter to the upper echelons of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    ******


    "His Majesty is dead."


    "His Majesty¡­"


    Many lesser demons in Azure Wing Gorge watched the gigantic mantis corpse plummet. They could not help but reel in shock before they scattered chaotically. They fled frenetically in all directions.


    Whoosh. A flying sword rapidly returned with the treasures Azure Wing Demon King left behind from a distance away. On the way back, the flying sword disassembled into seven flying swords. Elder Sword''s Seven Kills Sword could transform into seven second-grade flying swords. Apart from the sword bringing the treasures back to Qin Yun, the other six flying swords swooped down to attack the tens of thousands of demons. They mainly targeted the great demons at the Connate realm.


    "No good! The flying swords are coming!" The six flying swords attacked, and many of the once-cunning great demons were shuddering in fear.


    Whoosh.


    Six flying swords whistled over. As the array''s master was dead, the demon lair''s array formations were drastically reduced in strength. The six flying swords easily flew past great demons, robbing them of their lives.


    About thirty seconds later, the six flying swords carried a pile of treasures to the boat. Qin Yun stood at the bow and easily stored them away. The six flying swords continued circling his wrist before transforming into a bracelet. The Seven Kills Sword was normally worn as seven beads.


    "Strange. Among the treasures left behind by Azure Wing Demon King, the most valuable item is a second-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun secretly pondered. "But before, when he pleaded for mercy, he tried to entice me with the huge secret of a treasure that was not inferior to a first-grade Dharma treasure. It could even be a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. When the six flying swords blasted through his lair, I did not detect any powerful treasures in the vicinity through my flying swords."


    "Xiaoxiao, I''m going up to take a look. I''ll be back in a while," said Qin Yun to his wife.


    "Alright." Yi Xiao was feeling very happy as she beamed.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun transformed into a beam as he shot straight for the demon lair.


    "That Sword Immortal Qin is here!" Many demons were horrified.


    However, Qin Yun landed on a mountain, where he observed his surroundings and released his sword intent domain to probe the area.


    As he strolled around, he flew from one mountain to another, easily visiting more than ten mountains that surrounded the core area. His sword intent domain reached as far as a thousand feet and the shorter mountains were only a thousand feet tall or so. His sword intent domain could easily scan the major caves.


    "There''s nothing." Qin Yun stood on a mountain''s peak and frowned slightly. "I can¡¯t seem to find the powerful treasure that Azure Wing Demon King mentioned."

 220 Ownership of the Jade Bottle

    Chapter 220: Ownership of the Jade Bottle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun scanned the surrounding mountain range as his sword intent domain penetrated area after area.


    "I''ll tell you only after you make that vow. If not, I''ll take it to my grave and that treasure will remain something you¡¯ll never be able to find." Qin Yun remembered the words Azure Wing Demon King said before he was killed.


    "Something I will never be able to find? From the looks of it, this treasure is very difficult to find."


    Qin Yun pondered over the matter. He had searched all the mountains around Azure Wing Demon King''s residence but found nothing. "Strange, why didn''t he carry such a powerful treasure on him?"


    Most cultivators or great demons would carry their most important treasures on them!


    They ran the risk of having them stolen by placing them anywhere else.


    "Furthermore, he was unable to tell the treasure''s grade." Qin Yun was perplexed. If it were an ordinary Dharma treasure, one could easily determine if it was a first-grade or transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    "Either the treasure is too special, such as the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse, or it is fraught with danger. He did not dare bring it around with him and hid it instead. If not that, then he only knows a little about the treasure but it is not in his possession." Qin Yun shook his head. "And there''s another possibility¡­ He deliberately fabricated the story in order to survive."


    He failed to find it after another round of searching.


    And from afar, the cultivators from Black Turtle Palace were flying over on a cloud.


    "Forget it, so what if I can''t find it. What''s most important now is to quickly deal with Nine Mountain Island Lord," thought Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin."


    The group of cultivators from the Black Turtle Palace flew over. All of them looked at Qin Yun with reverential fear.


    "Thank you, Sword Immortal Qin, for ridding our Cloud Prefecture of this great fiendish demon." The cultivators bowed and said politely. Some of the cultivators were filled with excitement and gratefulness. They had vendettas with Azure Wing Demon King.


    "Sorry for leaving the cleaning up to all of you fellow Daoists from the Black Turtle Palace," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "It''s nothing at all. Now that Azure Wing Demon King is dead, the remaining demons are not even worth mentioning." The goateed man waved his hand and said, "All of you, hurry and vanquish the lesser demons. These lesser demons were the Azure Wing Demon King''s minions and they have tormented humans. There is no need to spare them."


    "Yes."


    The Connate realm disciples of the Black Turtle Palace echoed in unison.


    Apart from the goateed man who was at the Connate Golden Core realm, the remaining disciples were at the Connate True Core or False Core. Raiding a demon lair and exterminating the lesser demons was naturally easy. After all, the more powerful demons had been killed by Qin Yun.


    "I have something to tend to. I''ll be making a move first," said Qin Yun. With that, he transformed into a beam of light that flew towards the distant boat.


    The goateed man watched from afar as he sighed secretly. "For him to easily kill the Azure Wing Demon King, it probably means Sword Immortal Qin has stepped into the Dao! Out of all the beings, the humans, demons, Water race¡­ Sword Immortal Qin is one of the three strongest people in the world. But from the looks of it, the Dao he gained insight in isn''t considered strong."


    Qin Yun was considered very ordinary among those who had stepped into the Dao.


    ¡­


    Sou!


    Qin Yun landed on the boat.


    "Brother Yun, what were you investigating when you circled the mountains?" Yi Xiao asked curiously.


    "Before Azure Wing Demon King died, he said he had a powerful treasure. He said he would only tell me about it if I spared his life," replied Qin Yun with a smile. "I was using my sword intent domain to search the main areas he stayed and cultivated in but found nothing. From the looks of it, he might have been fabricating the treasure in order to survive."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Powerful treasures are usually carried on one¡¯s person. How many people would leave them elsewhere? It was probably a lie."


    Ao Xue was more and more satisfied with Qin Yun as she looked at him.


    Her son-in-law''s strength made him one of the top three in the world! Although immortals and fiendcelestials were more powerful, they did not dare violate the heavenly rules. She was very pleased and relieved that her daughter had found such a husband.


    "Xiaoxiao, Mother, I''ll be returning to Jiang Prefecture," said Qin Yun immediately. "My strength has been exposed and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance likely knows of it already. It will also spread among the fiendish demons but that will take time. Furthermore, some fiendish demons might not abandon their lairs just yet. I want to rush to Jiang Prefecture''s Nine Mountain Island as soon as possible and attempt to slay Nine Mountain Island Lord."


    Although he was aware that he only had a ten or twenty percent chance of killing Nine Mountain Island Lord, he still wanted to try.


    He hoped that Nine Mountain Island Lord had yet to flee!


    "Leave quickly. Dealing with Nine Mountain Island Lord is of utmost importance," said Yi Xiao.


    "Qin Yun, with your flying arts, you should reach Nine Mountain Island in an hour. Perhaps, Nine Mountain Island Lord is still in his lair." Ao Xue nodded.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded and immediately streaked through the sky in the form of a beam. He headed east, straight for Jiang Prefecture.


    Ao Xue and Yi Xiao looked up to watch him depart.


    "I hope Brother Yun can kill that Nine Mountain Island Lord," muttered Yi Xiao. "The death of Brother Yun''s sister has always left a mental scar on him! And it was all because of Nine Mountain Island Lord."


    "I heard that Nine Mountain Island Lord is a massive mountain and his body''s strength matches that of the Paramount realm. The outcome of Qin Yun attempting to kill Nine Mountain Island Lord while he is in his lair could go either way," said Ao Xue.


    ¡­


    The goateed man flew into a depression in the mountains. The massive mantis corpse was there.


    "Here lies the great Azure Wing Demon King, dead. Awesome!" The goateed man laughed as he looked at the corpse, especially the mantis demon''s sharp gigantic saber arms. "Sword Immortal Qin sure doesn''t bother with a lot of things. He abandoned such a huge fiendish demon corpse. This is a demon that cultivated in a Fiendbody. Its body makes for very rare materials. If these saber arms are harvested, they can be easily refined into a fourth or fifth-grade Dharma treasure. Even the body itself makes for good materials for the refinement of pills and weapons."


    The ordinary demon corpses could be ignored.


    But with more powerful demons, especially those that cultivated a Fiendbody, meaning that they had spent immense resources to cultivate their bodies, their bodies were extremely precious.


    "Kill! Kill!"


    "Quickly run!"


    Countless demons were fleeing the mountains. The Black Turtle Palace disciples showed no mercy as they slaughtered them.


    The Black Turtle Palace called this prefecture their home, after all. They had seen too many incidents of these demons wreaking havoc. Many humans had died under their hands. Now, they naturally showed no mercy when killing them. However, demons had all sorts of tricks and means at their disposal. Some could burrow into the ground, fly into the sky, or swim. Ten minutes later, about ten percent of the lesser demons finally escaped while the rest were completely annihilated.


    After the wipeout, the Black Turtle Palace disciples began to carefully probe the demon lair in search of treasures.


    They received large amounts of treasures if they succeeded in ridding a place of evil. And according to the rules, the treasures they obtained in the demon lair were theirs for the keeping.


    "Junior Brother Jiao, you go that side while I search this area," said a middle-aged Daoist.


    "Alright." Another young Connate False Core Daoist nodded with a smile.


    They naturally needed to search the entire demon lair. After all, cultivation required treasures and resources.


    The middle-aged Daoist followed a path on the mountainside and quickly entered a somewhat hidden cave.


    "Oh?" The middle-aged Daoist looked at the cave and carefully searched the area. "There''s nothing at all?"


    He immediately turned to leave.


    "In here¡­"


    "In here¡­"


    A sharp voice rang in his mind.


    The middle-aged Daoist was alarmed. "Who¡¯s there?"


    "Thirty feet in front of you, dig about ten feet deep and you will be able to see me," said the sharp voice.


    "Oh?" The middle-aged Daoist frowned. He looked to be middle-aged but he was at the Connate True Core realm and had cultivated for more than two centuries. He had survived long enough to not be dumb.


    "Let me take a look."


    Although he cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage, he sent his Dharmic powers surging out to condense a gigantic palm in midair. Boom! The Dharmic powered palm dug up the rocky ground and soon excavated a dry pool at the bottom where there sat a green jade bottle.


    The green jade bottle flickered with a halo.


    "You are this bottle?" The middle-aged Daoist was puzzled.


    "I''m this treasure bottle''s Item Spirit. I was severely damaged in ancient times," said the jade bottle with a voice transmission.


    "Item Spirit?" The middle-aged Daoist was shocked. Treasures that could produce an Item Spirit were Numinous treasures.


    He immediately trickled some of his Dharmic powers into the bottle but found it to be empty. He found it difficult to probe.


    The jade bottle continued, "You are still too weak. There''s no way you can control me. However, I can aid your cultivation. You are currently at the Connate True Core realm. I can guarantee you that you can attain the Golden Core realm in three years. In the future, there is even some chance of you condensing an Essence Soul to become immortal."


    "What? Attain the Golden Core in three years?" The middle-aged Daoist was immediately moved.


    He could only live for three hundred years and he was already two hundred years old, an age considered ordinary among the Connate True Core realm disciples in the Black Turtle Palace. He did not even become an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. He had no hopes of reaching the Golden Core realm with his current potential.


    At that moment, the middle-aged Daoist made the decision. "This treasure bottle is solely the opportunity of me, Yu Shiqi. I cannot let anyone else know about it!"


    Inside the bottle, the spirit thought to itself.


    "Hehehe, humans. As long as they have desires, they will ultimately be obediently used by me." The existence inside the bottle was secretly delighted. "That sword immortal from before was truly powerful. Even the array formation''s impediment could not prevent him from killing that mantis demon. If the mantis demon had aided me for another ten years, I''d have definitely been able to escape this bottle and regain my freedom."


    "I have to be a little patient and properly nurture this human cultivator. I''ll give him some benefits first before I slowly manipulate him into doing my bidding."


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    The middle-aged Daoist held a jade bottle the size of a finger under his clothes. He walked out of the cave with a smile.


    "Senior Brother Yu, you look like you are in a good mood. Did you find some treasure?" A Black Turtle Palace disciple walked over and said with a smile.


    "Only an eighth-grade Dharma treasure," replied the middle-aged Daoist with a smile. "Junior Brother Jiao, how was it for you?"


    "I''m not that lucky. I returned empty-handed. There weren''t any treasures," said the Black Turtle Palace disciple with a shake of the head.


    "Let''s go. Let''s see if there''s anything else elsewhere," suggested the middle-aged Daoist.


    The duo walked out alongside each other. Like many other Black Turtle Palace disciples, they continued wiping clean the demon lair.

 221 A World in Upheaval

    Chapter 221: A World in Upheaval


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun had killed Cloud Prefecture''s great fiendish demon, Azure Wing Demon King, who had dominated Azure Wing Gorge for more than a thousand years! This news spread at an astonishing speed, quickly making its way to all nineteen prefectures of the world. It even reached the northern lands and the Four Seas. Humans, fiendish demons, Water race¡­ experts from various factions were shocked when they learned the news. Many great fiendish demons were horrified.


    Humans had only one existence that had stepped into the Dao in the present era. He was the monk, Sacred Reverend Dharvana from Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery. However, he was only good at close combat. His flying arts were far inferior to a flying sword! Secondly, Sacred Reverend Dharvana had entered perpetual seclusion in a dedicated bid to enter the Arhat realm to attain immortality.


    Qin Yun was different. He was a sword immortal and there was no hope for him to gain immortality! In addition, he showed no mercy to fiendish demons. He would even go as far as pursuing them to their deaths.


    "Run!"


    "Leave quickly."


    In many parts of the world, great fiendish demons did not hesitate to take their treasures with them as they abandoned their lairs.


    "Younglings, I will be returning to the sacred palace for cultivation from this day forth. All of you should disperse. That Sword Immortal Qin might storm this area and when he doesn''t find me, he could wipe out all of you in passing. Take off, all of you." A great fiendish demon informed the demons under him before riding a black wind to head straight for Snow Prefecture''s Golden Royal Palace. The Golden Royal Palace sounded lofty and orthodox but it belonged to one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons.


    ¡­


    The birth of a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao influenced the world greatly.


    Especially because this sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao was one who would pursue great fiendish demons everywhere in the world! There were crazy sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao previously in history. For example, Elder Sword was one of those that was rather crazy. He had even stormed several sects and fiendish demon factions to rob them of their manuals. However, Qin Yun''s ruthlessness was solely aimed at great fiendish demons. He showed them no mercy. The hands of these great fiendish demons were stained with the blood of the countless humans they terrorized.


    Qin Yun would not show any mercy once he had the chance to kill them.


    "Nicely done of Qin Yun."


    Qin Prefecture, Imperial Capital. Inside the royal palace.


    Human Emperor was leisurely drawing in a pavilion as he listened to the Head Eunuch''s report. He could not help but smile and praise him. "Since he is capable of such feats, he must have stepped into the Dao. He did take a few moves to kill Azure Wing Demon King so it is unlikely that his Dao is very powerful. However, fiendish demons in the Paramount realm¡­ are probably all reeling in fear! There are only so many great fiendish demons in the Paramount realm. And only a few of those are on land! From this day forth, all great fiendish demons below the Paramount realm might be returning to their sects to hide."


    "In that case, the lesser demons would no longer have someone to rely on. They can only scatter and hide. The commoners would lead much better lives." Human Emperor felt wistful. "Although this Qin Yun will incur the hate of many great fiendish demons upon himself and his family, he has benefited all the commoners in the world."


    Human Emperor was the absolute leader of the Godfiend lineage. He ruled over the entire world and was recognized by all as one of the most terrifying existences in the world.


    But Human Emperor appeared ordinary at that moment. He lacked might and appeared mortal.


    "It is the good fortune of countless commoners that Qin Yun shows no mercy to fiendish demons," said the Head Eunuch with a smile.


    "He has stepped into the Dao and is willing to lose all decorum with fiendish demons. He even crazily pursues fiendish demons to kill them. He''s unafraid of any backlash. This only occurs occasionally in history," said Human Emperor. "Every time such a person appears, it benefits the commoners. For several centuries, human commoners lead good lives. In fact, I would like to do so too but there are heavenly rules I have to abide by. I''m unable to directly interfere in these matters."


    "How wise of Your Majesty. Before the dynasty was established, the northern demon horde would frequently invade the central plains to wreak havoc. And now, our Great Chang empire has completely fended off the northern demon horde. Your Majesty''s merits are limitless," said the Head Eunuch immediately.


    "Haha, Ah Fu, all you know is to say something pleasing to the ears," commented Human Emperor. "Regardless, Qin Yun''s actions will indeed lead to the saving of countless commoners. He will have great merits conferred on him by the heavens! Unfortunately, the sword immortal lineage doesn''t have a way to condense an Essence Soul. If there was, with his talent, he would definitely become an immortal."


    The Head Eunuch said with a smile, "For the sake of countless mortals, perhaps the inability for Sword Immortal Qin to become immortal is for the best."


    "That''s true."


    Human Emperor nodded slightly. "Him not becoming immortal, it is indeed better for mortals."


    Becoming immortal meant being restrained by the heavenly rules.


    ******


    Across the world, great fiendish demons fled. There were too few fiendish demons at the Paramount realm and most of them were Water fiendish demons! There were only seven continental Paramount realm great fiendish demons. Among the seven, three of them kept low profiles and cultivated in secret. The other four arrogantly occupied an area and made themselves hegemons, kings, or patriarchs. Countless demons subordinated themselves under them.


    Even these four were somewhat troubled! They might be safe their lairs but did that mean they would have to hide in their lairs forever?


    Therefore, two out of the four fiendish demons fled back to their sects.


    Instantly¡­


    It was very rare to see even one true great fiendish demon in the world.


    ¡­


    Benefiting countless commoners augmented one with tremendous merit.


    If one could see the light bestowed by providence or merit, they would be able to see it rise and shine brightly on Qin Yun. Furthermore, it would constantly grow with time. The longer he lived, the more he benefited the commoners. The accrued merit he had would naturally increase.


    "Nine Mountain Island."


    Qin Yun was rushing east at the fastest possible speed with his Beam Transformation Art.


    Light from providence, merit?


    Qin Yun did not pay much attention to those. After all, strength was key. His strength was destined to make him reign supreme throughout the world. As for creating a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul? The difficulty was too high. It was more difficult than perfecting the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma like Ancestral Master Zhang did in the past. Not a single sword immortal in history had succeeded in doing so.


    He could do as he pleased regardless of the amount of merit. Those fiendish demons that inflicted misery on humans had to die!


    From Qin Yun''s point of view, why couldn''t humans and demons live peacefully? The Heavenly Demon Palace was a representative of the demon faction. Didn''t it coexist with humans perfectly fine? Wasn''t it the same with the Four Seas Dragon race? Among the populace, there were demons such as the dog demon, Qian Bao, that was willing to give up his life for his owner. There were humans and demons who fell in love and had children. Humans and demons could definitely coexist peacefully.


    So why did some fiendish demons like to eat humans and treat humans no different from beasts?


    In those cases, they had to be killed! All those fiendish demons would be wiped out.


    Fiendish demons had fiendcelestials backing them. If they were Other Realm Fiendcelestials? That resulted in humans having to ally with the Four Seas Dragon race and Heavenly Demon Palace to deal with them. Regardless, he would put in his best. How much strength he possessed would imply what he could do.


    ******


    Jiang Prefecture, Cloud Prefecture. On Nine Mountain Island.


    In a deep and dark cavern on the island, there was a chamber for seclusion.


    "Nine Mountain, you must quickly return! That Qin Yun has a vendetta against you. He will definitely not spare you. Although your life-preservation methods are powerful, it''s not guaranteed that you can survive Qin Yun''s flying sword. Quickly return to Cloudfiend Mountain and cultivate in peace. If you can attain the Paramount realm, with you having a mountain as your true form, there will be nothing you need to fear in the future."


    "Master, let me consider it a little more." The black-robed Nine Mountain Island Lord had a complicated look in his eyes under his blood-colored brows.


    "You are still considering? With Qin Yun''s flying arts, it wouldn''t take long for him to arrive from Cloud Prefecture''s Azure Wing Gorge!"


    "Let me consider it a little more."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord cut the transmission.


    He sat cross-legged in silence. He took out a fiendcelestial figurine that had dozens of arms and faces on both sides.


    "My true body is a towering mountain¡­"


    "This makes me extremely powerful early on but eventually, it becomes tougher to cultivate. Anything I learn is learned slowly and any cogitation is slow as well. According to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, it''s because I''m a mountain! Mountains are meant to be extremely calm. Cultivation would naturally be extremely slow." Nine Mountain Island Lord thought to himself. "This towering mountain shackles me. Do I really have to free myself from these shackles? Do I have to abandon my true mountain body?"


    "I thought I still had time and did not need to rush it. Who knew that Qin Yun would make a breakthrough so quickly?"


    "Forget it. After cultivating arduously, I feel that there''s no chance for me to reach the Paramount realm. In that case, I might as well risk it!"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord looked at the fiendcelestial figurine in his hand.


    Buzz.


    He activated the fiendcelestial figurine.


    "Boom!" The space behind the fiendcelestial figurine distorted as a rift opened up. Through the rift in the void, he could barely see a portion of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s head.


    "Nine Mountain," said the Other Realm Fiendcelestial. "Is there something you need?"


    "Fiendcelestial, I agree to whatever you said previously." Nine Mountain Island nodded. "I will abandon my true body and offer my body to you. However, you have to give me a new body as you previously promised me."


    "Hahaha¡­" The Other Realm Fiendcelestial guffawed. His mouth opened wide, revealing the teeth that appeared as indestructible as Dharma treasures. "Very good. A mountain body does have its advantages but it also has its flaws. It''s too slow to cultivate with one! An excellent body allows for easier cultivation. Your cultivation is only slow because it is restricted by your body despite you having high comprehension ability."


    "I will give you a Possession Spell too. The body is born out of the Sanguine Sea Fiend Embryo. During the gestation period, I will wipe its intelligence, making it a body of pure flesh that lacks a soul. There will be no danger in possessing it. Your cultivation in the fiendcelestial lineage Dharmic formulations will progress at breakneck speeds," said the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    Whoosh.


    Following that, a weak body wrapped in black light forcibly penetrated the void''s obstruction. Thankfully, it was the weakest and smallest body that had not yet cultivated. The price of letting it tunnel through the void was something the Other Realm Fiendcelestial could afford.


    The black-robed Nine Mountain Island Lord looked at the black light dissipate. In front of him was an infant''s body.


    "I''ll abandon my mountain body and take the risk. I will have memories of my cultivation realms, so I believe I can regain my strength very quickly." Nine Mountain Island Lord looked at the baby as he thought to himself.

 222 Descen

    Chapter 222: Descent


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Boom!


    Qin Yun entered the Jiang Prefecture''s Wusu County in the form of a beam.


    "I''m almost there." Qin Yun looked down. The vast, shimmering Cloud Lake was already underneath him. In it lived members of the Water race. Humans could coexist with the Water race living in the lake as long as they did not harm humanity.


    Although the Cloud Lake was expansive, at Qin Yun''s flying speed it only took him a few seconds to reach a point where he could see Nine Mountain Island. In another blink of an eye, he was already hovering above Nine Mountain Island.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun stopped in midair and looked at the Nine Mountain Island beneath him. It was silent.


    "Even the array formation is gone?" Qin Yun landed on the soft wild grass of the island. There were numerous caves on the island since it was a place where a large number of demons lived. Nine Mountain Island was far more imposing than Azure Wing Gorge.


    "He really fled. Even the lesser demons are gone. No one is left." After condensing the purplish-gold Golden Core, he experienced growth in his soul again, making it stronger. Now, Qin Yun could sense the surrounding thirty kilometers through his Intrinsic Flying Sword. His flying sword could also kill enemies up to five hundred kilometers out. Without the Nine Mountain Island array formation''s obstruction, his psyche reached everywhere. There were no demons or treasures at all on the island.


    Qin Yun turned to look at the vast lake.


    There were boats on the lake filled with lesser demons paddling with all their strength. There were also lesser demons swimming, as well as avian demons flying away. Obviously, these lesser demons were the slowest of those on Nine Mountain Island.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun flashed, transforming into a stream of light before landing on the bow of one of the boats.


    The demons on the boat were so shocked they jumped into the lake. As they abandoned the boat so quickly, water splashed, leaving Qin Yun a little taken aback.


    "You." Qin Yun looked at one of the demons that had abandoned the boat. His sword intent domain restrained him instantly. He was a cat demon and half his body had entered the water but, due to the sword intent domain''s restraint, he could not move up or down. He was fixed in place.


    "Esteemed Immortal, spare me! Spare me, please!" pleaded the cat demon immediately.


    "Where''s Nine Mountain Island Lord?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Island Lord said that he''s returning to Cloudfiend Mountain. He said that Sword Immortal Qin Yun will be coming and wanted us to disperse. Many great demons have also fled," said the cat demon immediately.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    It was truly as he expected. Nine Mountain Island Lord''s life preservation was immensely strong, yet he was not deluded into thinking he stood a chance. He decided to disband the entire Nine Mountain Island and fled.


    It was said that Nine Mountain Island was Nine Mountain Island Lord''s birthplace since his true body was the island¡¯s mountain. Even so, he was rather decisive in leaving a place as important as his birth home.


    "Phew."


    Qin Yun departed as he transformed into a stream of light that streaked across the sky.


    "Palatial Lord Essence Charm." Qin Yun contacted Palatial Lord Essence Charm through his Inspect Heavenly Token. "Nine Mountain Island Lord has fled his island. The demons on the island have scattered. The Jiang Prefecture can now pursue the demons."


    "Hahaha, we have already begun mustering the troops. There is not a single great fiendish demon in Jiang Prefecture currently. We will meet zero resistance. We naturally have to eliminate the demons as soon as possible." Palatial Lord Essence Charm was very happy as well. "I have to thank you, fellow Daoist Qin. This isn¡¯t only happening in our Jiang Prefecture, all nineteen prefectures in the world will experience great changes because of this. Daoist Qin, you have really gained boundless beneficence."


    "Unfortunately, those great fiendish demons are very crafty. They immediately flee the moment they see the situation turn against them," said Qin Yun.


    Fiendish demons had longer lifespans than humans.


    Five centuries later, these great fiendish demons that had hidden away would mostly still be alive. They could very well reappear to plunge humanity into misery.


    "Haha, as long as Daoist Qin is around, the great fiendish demons will have to hide." Palatial Lord Essence Charm said with a smile. "In the coming centuries, the commoners will live much better lives. And with your talent, you might even be able to create a Dharmic formulation that allows the sword immortal lineage to condense an Essence Soul."


    Palatial Lord Essence Charm was in an extremely good mood.


    In recent years, the Scenic Mountain Sect had obtained the sect''s long-lost cornerstone manuals from Scenic Yang Immortal Abode! Now all they needed was time to develop the techniques. And with all the great fiendish demons in Jiang Prefecture fleeing, all that was left were lesser demons of no consequence. With that, the Jiang Prefecture''s population would soar in the next few centuries! The Scenic Mountain Sect could use this growth to recruit more excellent disciples. The next few centuries would be a time for the Scenic Mountain Sect to rapidly grow.


    Everything was perfectly aligned!


    The Scenic Mountain Sect naturally wished to see such a situation. Even the last token of the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode, the thing that triggered this happy period, had been produced by Qin Yun. To the Scenic Mountain Sect, Qin Yun was their lucky star!


    ******


    Deep in a desolate mountain of the Qian Prefecture, there was an array formation set up.


    An infant sat cross-legged there, cultivating. The surface of his body was swirling with a fiendish aura.


    With time, the infant began to grow up. Soon, he became a youth. He wore black and also had blood-colored brows.


    "Phew."


    The youth opened his eyes. "This body is indeed innately suitable to cultivate the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations. It''s extremely easy to cultivate now. Also, since I have prepared sufficient treasures and retained the knowledge of my previous realms, it took me just three days to return to the Connate realm."


    "It''s true, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial did not lie to me. That''s right. He still needs my true body from before. Why would he dare lie to me? If he does try to pull anything, I''d rather destroy my true body and lead us to an internecine outcome." The youth looked at a mountain suffusing fiendish aura inside the array formation. That was his previous true body! If not for the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, he would not have learned such an intricate possession spell."


    "Swoosh." The youth took out the fiendcelestial figurine from his Cosmic Bag.


    Buzz.


    The fiendcelestial figurine immediately resonated with distant space. With a rumble, a rift began to appear in the void.


    The gigantic fiendcelestial head was watching through the rift.


    "Haha, you have already returned to the Connate realm? That body I gave you isn''t bad, right?" said the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    "Indeed, I can feel that my soul is a lot emptier. Cultivation comprehension is more than a hundred times faster," said Nine Mountain Island Lord with a nod.


    "Your mountain body from before made your cultivation much slower than that of ordinary demons. And this Sanguine Sea Fiend Embryo makes cultivating much faster than ordinary demons. Due to this, your cultivation speed will far exceed what it was in the past," said the Other Realm Fiendcelestial. "It''s a common saying that humans cultivate quickly. Now, you are probably no longer inferior to the humans. I do have to warn you that, although you have possessed this new body, your soul has not changed! Qin Yun, who wants you dead, can instantly discover your soul''s aura when he sees you. You have to be careful while you are still weak. Do not be discovered by him."


    "I understand." Nine Mountain Island Lord nodded.


    Powerful demons and cultivators had various means to change their looks.


    Only the soul''s aura could truly determine one''s identity.


    "This body is now yours, Fiendcelestial. I''ll be leaving first." Once Nine Mountain Island Lord said that, he left the array formation quickly.


    "He fled rather quickly. Was he afraid that I would kill him?"


    Through the void rift, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial watched Nine Mountain Island Lord escape.


    "It''s time."


    The Other Realm Fiendcelestial looked at the mountain body. "Only when the soul leaves willingly, leaving no resistance, can I successfully descend."


    "It sure wasn''t easy. How many years has it taken for a demon possessing a mountain body to appeared in this world!? He was finally willing to give me this body after I tempted him for so long."


    "Alright."


    The Other Realm Fiendcelestial, who had long prepared for this moment, instantly sent a faint purple light out from his glabella. The purple light traveled through the void rift with great difficulty.


    It appeared close but in fact, it was extremely far away.


    The purple light traversed the void with great difficulty. It was thousands of times harder than his previous sending of the weak infant body. The purple light appeared ordinary, but it was in fact the vital essence of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial after he abandoned his body. As for tunneling through the void with a body? It was something impossible for the Other Realm Fiendcelestial even if he made every sacrifice possible.


    Hum!


    After the purple light entered the world, the world rumbled as lightning clouds gathered. Such an existence would receive punishment from heavens the moment it descended!


    However, just as the purple light entered the world, it immediately bore into the mountain that was suffusing fiendish auras. Although the lightning clouds had gathered in the sky, they quickly stopped and after some time they dispersed altogether.


    The purple light entered the mountain and rapidly took it over.


    After all, the original soul had departed of its own will. There was no resistance at all.


    "This mountain body has long reached the level of the intent domain realm. Although this is my first descent, I can rapidly recover most of my strength." With a whoosh, the mountain transformed into a purple-robed youth. He smiled. "Excellent! I entered this world with all my memories intact. I wonder how many fiendcelestials will envy me."


    "No one can recognize my aura. Even Nine Mountain Island Lord would not recognize me. I have to give myself a name, a human name."


    The purple-robed youth pondered and recalled the human that had worshiped and communicated with him tens of thousands of years ago. It left a deep impression on him. "Alright, from this day forth, my name is He Qian."


    "Haha. He Qian. He Qian."


    The purple-robed youth stepped out with big strides. He traversed more than a thousand feet with each step. That night, he left the mountain and entered the human world.

 223 Time

    Chapter 223: Time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When Qin Yun was young, he felt that time passed very slowly. Each day seemed to pass as though he was counting his fingers. He looked forward to growing up, becoming an expert of an era, and killing Water God for revenge.


    But when he truly embarked onto the path of cultivation, Qin Yun felt that time began to pass even faster. One round of sword art cogitation would take half a month. Without him realizing it, several years had passed.


    Morning.


    Qin Yun was having his breakfast and eating some pastry.


    "Master." Ah Gui respectfully placed a dossier on the side of his food.


    Qin Yun nodded and opened the dossier. It contained the latest daily news on humans, demons, and the Water race!


    "Fiendish demons are becoming more crafty in the way they handle things." Qin Yun looked at the information and shook his head. "They¡¯re taking human form to infiltrate us humans, before they secretly commit murder."


    "Master," said Ah Gui immediately. "Years ago, demons wreaked havoc openly. They would pillage villages directly, killing and eating people in an unbridled fashion! Now, great fiendish demons do not dare to publicly appear and the lesser demons have been forced into hiding by cultivators. No matter how bloodthirsty they are, they do not dare act brashly. They occasionally pillage while others transform into humans to infiltrate large family clans, villages, or even cities. There, they secretly kill and eat people. They do not dare attract attention to themselves anymore."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Now, many sects had fiendish demons lurking within them. There could be demons hidden in brothels, whorehouses, escort companies, local gangs, beggars, etc.


    "According to the records, the number of humans that have died due to demons had been reduced by 99%!" Ah Gui lauded. "This is all because of you, Master. Now, every cultivator in the world looks up to you, Master."


    "Enough, enough. Stop flattering me." Qin Yun smiled. "Alright, you can take your leave."


    "Yes." Ah Gui retreated respectfully.


    Ah Gui had been working in the Qin Manor for a long time. He was honest and intelligent. Although he was mortal, Qin Yun trusted him with many tasks. After interacting with all sorts of information on a daily basis, Ah Gui had a deep understanding of the fiendish demons. The more he understood, the more impressed he was by Qin Yun. The second young master of yesteryear was now the most famous and best sword immortal in the world.


    "Unknowingly, the tactics of fiendish demons have changed. They do know how to adapt." Qin Yun read the dossier. "But in that case, it will become harder to deal with fiendish demons."


    In the past, he could storm a demon lair once it was discovered, wiping all of them out in the process.


    But now, fiendish demons had infiltrated the humans. For one thing there were too few cultivators, and also, not all of them were capable of using Dharma Eyes! Even if they had Dharma Eyes, most could only discern their surroundings.


    There was news of demons killing humans everywhere in the world. However, it became rarer for commoners to see demons with their own eyes.


    Demons went from being blatantly open to discreetly hidden.


    But these days were a lot better than the past!


    ¡­


    After having breakfast, Qin Yun leisurely went to the mirror lake.


    As he walked across the water''s surface and into the middle of the lake, he extended his hand. He began practicing his swordplay with a sword that appeared in his extended hand.


    As long as there wasn''t anything important to take care of, Qin Yun would spend every morning practicing his swordplay.


    "Hum! Hum! Hum!"


    While demonstrating his swordplay, the surrounding world would gentle reverberate. Furthermore, Qin Yun''s every move naturally formed a picturesque scene. Ordinary cultivators would see a ''picture'' when they saw Qin Yun''s swordplay. It was art such as that of misty rain, pedestrians, or migratory birds¡­ They were the Heaven and Earth phenomena stemming from his sword arts.


    After practicing for an hour, Qin Yun put away his sword and stood there.


    "Now, I have grasped three Paramount realms. The three are Defense, Decimation, and Juxtaposition." Qin Yun stood on the lake. "If there is the heaven, there is also the earth. Where there is night, there is day. My sword path has defense, as well as decimation. However, they similarly need to fuse together. They are complete opposites but they rely on each other. That is the Juxtaposition Paramount realm."


    "With the Juxtaposition Paramount realm as the bond, the two Defense and Decimation Paramount realms will be the foundation. As such, my Sword Dao has finally taken embryonic form."


    "I can also faintly see my Sword Dao."


    "I just wonder when I can fully perfect it. It''s said that gaining insights into the Dao will be a great awakening. The heart becomes clear without any puzzlement. From the looks of it, I still need some time before I can step into the Dao," thought Qin Yun.


    Speaking of time, he had grasped his Defense Paramount realm in the winter of his twenty-sixth birthday.


    Now, he was already thirty-four. Seven years had passed.


    According to the past experiences of sword immortals that grasped Sword Dao in history, the heaven-defying ones took only three or four years to go from Paramount realm to stepping into the Dao. Ordinary ones would take about twenty or thirty years. Those that spent more than a century were considered slow.


    "Seven years have passed since I grasped the Paramount realm. I wonder how long more it will take before I step into the Dao." Qin Yun looked forward to the day.


    As for creating a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul himself?


    If he could not even step into the Dao, what was the point of creating a Dharmic formulation?


    If the difficulty of stepping into the Dao was like climbing a tiny building, then creating a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul himself was like ascending into the heavens!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun walked from the lake to a garden.


    He cast his senses around the area and discovered a young man and woman eating happily from a street-side stall in Grand Dominance City.


    "Shuyan, Shubing. Come over here!" Qin Yun frowned as he bellowed with a voice transmission.


    When the young man and woman heard the voice ring in their ears, they immediately gave each other wry looks. After that, they obediently returned to Qin Manor.


    Moments later.


    "Uncle." Qin Shubing and Qin Shuyan stood respectfully in front of Qin Yun.


    "Both of you are already sixteen. Neither of you are exactly young anymore," Qin Yun said with a frown. "According to our Qin family''s agreed upon date with the Hong family, Shuyan, you will be married in three years. Can¡¯t you be more enterprising?"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao remained childless.


    He naturally taught his brother Qin An''s children with painstaking effort. The many cultivation manuals, treasures, and conditions given to them were even more exaggerated than those used to nurture core disciples of thousand-year-old families. As thousand-year-old family clans had many rules and members, it had to be fair to all. Qin Shubing and Qin Shuyan did not have any competitors so a large amount of resources were spent on them. It was enough to make even Connate cultivators envious. Under such conditions, both of them had knocked open the gate of immortality two years ago. As they both idolized Qin Yun, they also practiced in the way of the sword.


    But in terms of sword arts? Qin Shuyan had barely become one with the sword while Qin Shubing had not even done so.


    "Okay." Qin Shubing and Qin Shuyan nodded obediently.


    "Work harder. Shuyan, Brother Hong''s daughter is one year younger than you but she''s so much better. She has long reached the Seamless realm and is already at the perfected twelfth level of Qi Refinement. She might even step into the Connate realm by the time of your marriage," said Qin Yun exasperatedly.


    "Orh." Qin Shuyan felt a little vexed.


    The marriage his uncle had arranged for him was troublesome.


    His future father-in-law, Hong Lingtong¡­ had recently broken through to the Connate Golden Core realm! There were two Connate Golden Core experts in Grand Dominance County. One was Qin Yun and the other was Hong Lingtong. As the best sword immortal, Qin Yun''s fame was so great that it drowned out the other genius Hong Lingtong''s halo, but it did not matter. His future father-in-law was at the Connate Golden Core realm. It made Qin Shuyan feel a lot of pressure.


    As for his fianc¨¦e? She was also a genius!


    "I have spoken to Brother Cui from Sword Tower," said Qin Yun. "You will be going to Sword Tower''s Hundred Sword Peak to gain experience. You will return whenever you are done with it."


    "Sword Tower?" Qin Shuyan''s eyes lit up and he was bewildered. "Uncle, what is this Hundred Sword Peak?"


    "It''s a test for Sword Tower disciples. If they do not pass Hundred Sword Peak, the Sword Tower disciples do not have the right to leave the mountain to vanquish evil," replied Qin Yun. "You are too lazy, so it''s good that you experience Hundred Sword Peak for yourself."


    "Oh?" Surprisingly, Qin Shuyan began anticipating it.


    He had been in Grand Dominance all his life and wished to go out into the world. However, he had been barred from doing so by his uncle.


    Sword Tower was the best sword cultivation sect.


    Although Sword Tower would send many excellent disciples to visit Qin Yun annually, wishing for Qin Yun to give them pointers, Qin Shuyan was still very curious about it.


    "Uncle, Uncle. What about me? Am I going too?" Qin Shubing asked immediately.


    "You?" Qin Yun pointed at Qin Shubing. "You have the nerve to even ask? You are already sixteen and you haven''t even become one with the sword. I don''t even dare to make it public that¡­ you are my niece and you were taught personally by me!"


    Qin Shubing immediately nodded obediently.


    "I, Qin Yun, personally taught you, my niece. Yet at sixteen, you have yet to be one with the sword?" Qin Yun shook his head. What a disgrace!


    "Then, then, when can I go to Sword Tower?" Qin Shubing could not help but ask.


    "Whenever you become one with the sword, I''ll send you to Sword Tower," said Qin Yun helplessly.


    It was only one with the sword!


    All he did was practice ordinary sword arts with his father and a few constables. He had become one with the sword at age thirteen! He later obtained the Sword Immortal Legacy but, without a master to advise him, there were many complicated things in the Sword Immortal Legacy which he failed to understand at all. Some of the terminologies in cultivation could be learned instantly if there was a master to go to for advice, but he did not have one. He had to learn everything through trial and error.


    At fifteen, he traveled the world and spent most of his time risking his life in combat. Only then did he gain insight into the profundity of the Sword Immortal Legacy. He nearly missed the maximum age limit to knock open the gate of immortality at nineteen.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao came out of seclusion and saw Qin Yun reprimanding his niece and nephew in a distant garden.


    "Sigh."


    Yi Xiao suddenly felt her heart wince.


    They had been married for more than ten years since their time in the immortal abode! Yi Xiao looked down at her belly.


    "It''s been ten years and still nothing. Mom said that I''m a Connate True Core realm cultivator and I have a dragon bloodline. Brother Yun is a Connate Golden Core, a purplish-gold Golden Core one at that. His bloodline is equally strong. It will be very difficult¡­ to have children. But it has already been a decade. How much longer do have I to wait?" Yi Xiao thought to herself as she looked at her belly.

 224 Reappearance of the Jade Bottle

    Chapter 224: Reappearance of the Jade Bottle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Lu Prefecture. Yanglai County City. Ximen family.


    The Ximen family was a family clan that was famous throughout all of Lu Prefecture. Its patriarch was a Connate Golden Core cultivator from the Daoist sacred land, Primordial Chaos Sect. Naturally, his entire family''s standing rose together with his. In Yanglai County, the family wielded absolute power. Every newly appointed county governor would have to first visit the Ximen family.


    However, the Ximen family had recently plunged into terror.


    "Second Master, Second Master!" A servant called for the second master, Ximen Zhen.


    Ximen Zhen was the second son of the Ximen family patriarch, Ximen Feng. As he had reached the Connate False Core realm, he was made the head of the Ximen family.


    "What happened now?" Ximen Zhen shouted helplessly as he looked at the panic-stricken servant.


    "The three cultivators we invited are all dead," whispered the servant.


    "What? Daoist Zhong and company are dead?" Ximen Zhen''s expression changed drastically. "Where''re their corpses?"


    "In the front yard." The servant led the way.


    Soon.


    In a side hall of Ximen Manor''s courtyard, there were three corpses. Many members of the Ximen family were gathered in the hall.


    People immediately made way when Ximen Zhen came in.


    "Daoist Zhong." Ximen Zhen''s expression changed greatly when he saw the three corpses.


    "My Ximen family has caused you harm. We caused you harm," Ximen Zhen said with a pained heart. A female cultivator came over and said, "Second Master, these three corpses and the corpses of our Ximen family''s clansmen have identical symptoms. Their flesh and blood have been sucked dry, leaving only bone and skin."


    Ximen Zhen nodded slightly.


    Indeed.


    The three corpses in front of him were devoid of flesh and blood. All that remained was bone and skin. Not a single drop of blood would flow, even if he carved the skin with a knife.


    "In the past five days, our Ximen family has seen a hundred clansmen die each day. All of them have had their flesh and blood sucked dry." An elder said sullenly. "And now, the three cultivation experts that came to our aid have also met a tragic end. Two of them were at the Connate True Core realm. Our Ximen family does not even have anyone at the Connate True Core realm. How are we to fend off this murderer?"


    "Those that fled the family clan have also had their flesh and blood sucked dry. Those that remain in the family clan are still sucked dry despite the family manor''s array formations. Escape means death, remaining also means death. What are we to do now?"


    The upper-echelon members of the Ximen family were indeed worried.


    "Second Master." They looked at Ximen Zhen.


    Ximen Zhen was similarly vexed.


    The Ximen family had three people at the Connate False Core realm initially. With the array formations left behind by the patriarch, even an entity at the Connate True Core realm could not intimidate the Ximen family! In a world where people at the Connate Golden Core realm seldom took action, those at the Connate True Core realm were typically the greatest experts of a prefecture. The Ximen family was considered very strong so with its strength, it was not afraid of enemies or fiendish demons.


    With their patriarch Ximen Feng being a Connate Golden Core realm expert of the Primordial Chaos Sect, the Ximen family had lived unfettered for the past one hundred plus years.


    "I have put in a request for Patriarch to come help but I can''t contact him." Ximen Zhen shook his head. "There''s no response from Patriarch and I have also requested help from the Primordial Chaos Sect. I have sought their help every day. But I have no idea when the Primordial Chaos Sect will send help over."


    "Sigh."


    "The family is in danger. Why is there no response from Patriarch?"


    The clansmen were all panicking.


    Some of them even had the thought¡­ that the patriarch had suffered something untoward. However, the patriarch was of eminent standing. He was the pillar of support for the family clan. No one dared to raise the possibility that something had happened to him.


    "Now, Daoist Zhong and company are dead too. Perhaps no other Daoists from the Lu Prefecture will dare to come after hearing of this," Ximen Zhen said with a sigh. "Let''s wait. Let''s wait for people from the Primordial Chaos Sect."


    "We can only suffer and wait in silence."


    "Let''s hope they come sooner rather than later. With a hundred clansmen being killed a day, it won''t take half a month for our Ximen family to be wiped out."


    The clansmen were all feeling distraught.


    Boom!


    Suddenly, a powerful might enveloped the area.


    "Ximen Zhen." An indifferent voice sounded.


    The moment Ximen Zhen heard that, he rushed out of the side hall and looked up. He saw two Daoists on a cloud above the Ximen family. One of the Daoists slung two swords behind his back. He had silver-white hair and he looked rather handsome.


    "Senior Yin!" Ximen Zhen was overjoyed.


    Primordial Chaos Sect''s Yin Lihuo was a Connate Golden Core expert. He was ranked in the top five and had reached the intent domain realm. In addition, he cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage! He was capable of fighting existences at the Paramount realm in close combat.


    Whoosh.


    Yin Lihuo flew down with his junior brother in tow.


    "Greetings, Senior Yin." Ximen Zhen immediately led his Ximen family clansmen to greet him politely.


    "Have you not found my Junior Brother Ximen yet?" asked Yin Lihuo.


    "Up to a hundred Ximen family clansmen die daily these past few days. Yet, there has been no news from Patriarch," said Ximen Zhen immediately.


    "Nothing?"


    Yin Lihuo frowned.


    Patriarch Ximen was a Connate Golden Core expert of the Primordial Chaos Sect after all. His sudden disappearance, and the inability to communicate with him despite his transmission mark not dissipating, was highly unusual! In addition, up to a hundred members of the Ximen family were being killed daily. In light of such a strange situation, the Primordial Chaos Sect immediately sent Yin Lihuo to investigate the matter.


    "Just today, I invited three fellow Daoists from the Lu Prefecture to help us. Two of them were at the Connate True Core realm but they were similarly sucked dry of their flesh and blood, and now lay dead," said Ximen Zhen anxiously.


    "Oh? Bring me there," instructed Yin Lihuo.


    "Senior Yin, please follow me." Ximen Zhen led the way.


    Soon, they came into a hall.


    Yin Lihuo led his junior brother to where the three corpses were lying on the floor. They were only skin and bones, with not a drop of blood left in their bodies.


    "Senior Brother, this matter seems odd." The gray-robed Daoist whispered. "All that''s left is skin and bones and not one bit of flesh or blood. It resembles the magi lineage, but sinister Dharma spells are also equally capable of these feats."


    "Yea." Yin Lihuo looked calmly.


    "Ah!"


    Suddenly, a clansman cried out in pain.


    Yin Lihuo and the gray-robed Daoist turned their heads instantly. A clansman was writhing in pain on the ground. His body rapidly withered and in seconds, all his flesh and blood was gone, leaving only skin and bones behind.


    "What?" Yin Lihuo was alarmed. His intent domain covered eight hundred feet of his surroundings. The clansman was well within his intent domain.


    "That''s what happens. That''s how it happens." Ximen Zhen and company were panic-stricken. Ximen Zhen added immediately, "Our Ximen family clansmen die like that. I have seen with my own eyes several who have had their flesh and blood sucked clean out of thin air. All that''s left is skin and bones."


    "I just arrived and the murderer kills a Ximen family clansman right under my nose? Was it a deliberate show of force?" Yin Lihuo''s pupils constricted.


    "Ximen Zhen," said Yin Lihuo.


    "Senior Yin," answered Ximen Zhen respectfully.


    "From this moment forth, your Ximen family''s array formation shall be under my control." Yin Lihuo instructed. "I want to see who this person lurking in the dark is. How dare he provoke my Primordial Chaos Sect."


    "Yes." Ximen Zhen nodded immediately.


    He couldn''t wish for anything better than to have such an existence help preside over his family clan.


    ¡­


    At that moment, in an inn about five kilometers away from the Ximen family.


    A middle-aged man stood in front of the window and looked in the direction of the Ximen family manor.


    "Yin Lihuo is here," said the middle-aged man softly. "At my present strength, even if I use my fiendcelestial lineage methods, I can barely equal him, right?"


    "Don''t worry. Don''t you have me?" A jade bottle said with a voice transmission from the table. "With me aiding you, Yin Lihuo is not your match. As long as you heavily injure Yin Lihuo, the Primordial Chaos Sect will become more careful. The Primordial Chaos Sect currently only has one entity at the Paramount realm. They would not let such an existence take any risks unless they were absolutely confident."


    "Alright." The middle-aged man nodded.


    ******


    Shu Prefecture''s Sword Tower.


    The upper echelons of Sword Tower welcomed Qin Yun warmly.


    "I''ll hand this nephew of mine over to you, Brother Cui. Let him suffer at Hundred Swords Peak," joked Qin Yun.


    "Dear Shuyan''s talent and perception are pretty good." praised Cui Lianfeng. The other Connate Golden Core sword immortals were very friendly as well. Now, among all the sects in the world, Sword Tower was the closest to the Qin family. Sword Tower always had the hope of making Qin Yun one of theirs! After all, they were all sword immortals and Qin Yun was an itinerant cultivator.


    "Shuyan."


    Qin Yun looked at Qin Shuyan. "Your marriage will be in three years. I hope that you are already out of Hundred Swords Peak by the time those three years are up."


    "Don''t worry, Uncle. I''ll escape it in a year. Give me a year." Qin Shuyan was very confident.


    "Haha, nice ambition." Qin Yun smiled and did not say another word.


    "Alright, everyone. I have matters to tend to and shall take my leave. I''ll trouble all of you with this nephew of mine."


    "Not at all."


    "Our Sword Tower sends disciples to Brother Qin every year and you have guided them seriously. It is us who should be ashamed. Brother Qin, you should send more disciples over to our Sword Tower."


    All of them were very warm.


    Sword Tower was the number one sword cultivation sect in the world.


    It was extremely difficult to enter Sword Tower as a disciple! Even many rich families could exhaust all their wealth and still fail to have their children enter. As for Qin Shuyan, his visit was for cultivation. He did not need to take anyone as a master; yet, he made all the Golden Core sword immortals treat him genially.


    In fact, Qin Yun was somewhat envious of this. Back when he roamed the world, he wished that he had a sword immortal master to guide him.


    "Phew."


    Soon.


    Qin Yun left Sword Tower and transformed into a beam of light that headed northeast.


    "Lu Prefecture."


    Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token and saw the latest blurb. "Primordial Chaos Sect''s Connate Golden Core cultivator, Ximen Feng''s family clan has had a hundred clansmen die daily for six consecutive days. The cultivators that provided their aid have died too. All of them died by having their flesh and blood sucked dry. Primordial Chaos Sect''s Yin Lihuo went and ended up seriously injured. It is confirmed that the murderer in question is a mysterious great fiendish demon, one that has never been seen before."


    "A great fiendish demon that even Yin Lihuo is no match for? I''ll take a look!" Qin Yun cast his Beam Transformation Art and headed straight for Lu Prefecture.


    His flying sword had not slain a great fiendish demon in a long time.

 225 Qin Yun is Here

    Chapter 225: Qin Yun is Here


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A beam zoomed through the clouds before plummeting and landing in Lu Prefecture''s Yanglai County City with a flash.


    Inside Yanglai County City.


    "Great fiendish demon?" Qin Yun appeared on the streets but the surrounding passers-by did not notice Qin Yun at all.


    Hum!


    Using his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun instantly sensed fifty kilometers around him. Ever since he condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core, it had nurtured his soul, strengthening it greatly. But it reached its limit after three plus years! Now, Qin Yun could sense fifty kilometers around him with the aid of his Intrinsic Flying Sword. If he released his flying sword, he could send it out a thousand kilometers!


    It was double what even the legends spoke of: sword immortals releasing their flying swords to kill enemies five hundred kilometers away.


    In fact, the so-called killing of enemies five hundred kilometers away was something only typical Connate Golden Core Paramount realm sword immortals were capable of! Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers and soul were much stronger, allowing his range to extend.


    Yanglai County City was slightly smaller than Grand Dominance City. Thus, his perception could naturally envelop the entire city. He could sense that the people in the County Governor Manor and Ximen Manor were hiding like frightened birds. They had their array formations perpetually activated, insulating them from psyche perception.


    "I haven''t discovered any great fiendish demons anywhere in the city." Qin Yun shook his head. "Even if great fiendish demons converge their aura, their powerful vital forces cannot be concealed unless they have some sort of treasure that insulates them from my psyche perception."


    Powerful array formations and treasures could insulate an area from psyche perception.


    "However, the Ximen family has up to a hundred clansmen dying daily. According to the reports, a Ximen clansman died under Yin Lihuo''s nose the moment he arrived. That great fiendish demon might be constantly monitoring the Ximen family," thought Qin Yun. "He must have some treasure insulating him from psyche perception. If not, he would have long been discovered by the Primordial Chaos Sect. I have to use my sword intent domain to search the area carefully."


    Qin Yun walked around the city as his sword intent domain spread out to cover a thousand feet of his surroundings.


    He could spread it out a radius of a thousand feet! That was already a very large radius, and to probe an entire city with one''s sword intent domain was perhaps something only existences at the Paramount realm were capable of.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun probed area after area and soon heard a din ahead of him.


    "Young Master Ximen, I beg you. Spare my daughter. Please, spare my daughter." A shrill voice sounded from up ahead.


    "Old bitch, you really have a death wish. Beat her up." A maniacal voice rang out.


    Qin Yun frowned when he heard it, and quickly took a step which allowed him to traverse more than a thousand feet.


    Nearby, there was a colorful-robed youth with deranged eyes. He had a huge mole on his face, making him look even uglier. Accompanying him was a group of guards and servants. Two servants were holding onto an adolescent girl, while another servant was kicking an old woman by the side.


    "Mother! Don''t beat my mother!" The girl cried.


    "Hmph!"


    The youth scoffed. "I suggest you come with me without a fuss and your mother will be fine. If not, you know the consequences."


    "Daughter, you cannot leave with him. He has defiled many maidens in the past two days. You will be finished if you go," shouted the old woman as she struggled.


    "Stop!" An angry shout came from the side. Another white-robed youth grabbed the servant who was beating the old woman. The servant had a hideous expression as he shouted, "Who dares interfere with the Ximen family''s matters? Are you sick of living! You¡ªThird Young Master!"


    The servant was shocked.


    The white-robed youth was enraged when he appeared. He plainly gave a push while the servant immediately turned extremely respectful.


    "Brother." The white-robed youth looked angrily at the colorful-robed youth. "That''s enough."


    "Ah, my younger brother. Haha, share a drink with me tonight," said the colorful-robed youth with a laugh.


    "What drinks? Quickly release this maiden," said the white-robed youth immediately.


    "Release? Why should I release her? I want her to serve me later." The colorful-robed youth scoffed. "Why? Are you trying to meddle in your elder brother''s affairs?"


    The white-robed youth said angrily, "You have already gone too far in the past two days."


    A group of spectators a distance away were murmuring in whispers.


    "This Ximen Cheng is atrocious. He has already defiled dozens of maidens these past two days."


    "The city''s prettiest maidens and even some beautiful married woman have been taken away by him. None of them survived a night. Rumors say that there were tortured badly. They died horrible deaths."


    "I heard the rumors too. A cousin of my neighbor is a servant of the Ximen family. He was in charge of burying the corpses. It was really tragic."


    "What a pity. Even the officials do not dare to interfere in this matter! After all, the county governor has to take into account the Ximen family''s standing."


    Everyone was discussing in whispers.


    A glint flashed coldly in Qin Yun''s eyes when he heard the conversations. A Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador''s family clan did have a lot of influence. However, such large family clans also needed to maintain a good reputation! Even if there was scum in the family, they had to act covertly. They would not dare commit acts of evil openly.


    "Brother," said the white-robed youth angrily. "The elders are busy dealing with external threats. When they are done, they will definitely not spare you for the atrocities you¡¯ve committed."


    "Spare me? Hahaha¡­" The colorful-robed youth scoffed. "You are talking about sparing me? So many of our clansmen are dead, with up to a hundred deaths a day. Speaking of which, there will be clansmen dying today too, isn''t that so? Perhaps you and I will die today! In that case, we might as well enjoy ourselves!"


    "Previously, Father reigned me in. Grandfather was reigning me in as well. Now, they no longer have the time or energy to watch me."


    "Hehehe, I have taken all the girls that have caught my eye to serve me at my residence. If I die, they will all die with me. Hahaha¡­" The colorful-robed youth was on the brink of madness.


    The white-robed youth could not help but say, "You''re insane. Completely insane."


    "I am insane. Come on, bring her away." The colorful-robed youth turned to leave.


    "Daughter! Daughter¡­" The old woman yelled with a face full of tears.


    "I heard that the Ximen family has quite a number of clansmen dying every day. This Ximen Cheng doesn''t know when he will die. So before his death, he has decided to defile so many maidens." People whispered as they shook their heads and sighed. Although they pitied the victims and were outraged, they did not dare meddle in the Ximen family''s affairs. They did not even dare speak against them aloud.


    "Brother."


    The white-robed youth tried to stop his elder brother.


    "Hold him back," said the colorful-robed youth with a sneer.


    At that moment, even a brother''s urging was useless!


    Just as the colorful-robed youth was about to board his carriage, he turned his head to give instructions. "Put the beauty on the carriage. I want to¡ª"


    Suddenly, his eyes widened as a trickle of blood appeared at his glabella. He turned limp and fell from the carriage. Blood constantly flowed out of his forehead, dyeing the ground red.


    "Young Master!" The guards and servants jumped in fright as they checked for any signs of breathing.


    "He''s dead."


    "He died."


    Everyone was astounded. The white-robed youth went forward to investigate while still reeling in shock. His elder brother was indeed dead.


    "Who killed him. Who was it?" The surrounding guards and servants checked the vicinity. There was a cultivator at the eleventh level of Qi Refinement among the guards.


    Qin Yun walked out of the crowd.


    "I was the one who killed him," said Qin Yun nonchalantly.


    "You?" The Ximen family''s guards and servants, including the white-robed youth, looked at the blue-clothed man in shock.


    "You dare to kill our Ximen family''s young master?" bellowed a guard.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand, produced his Purple-colored Inspect Heavenly Token, and showed it to them.


    Most of the guards did not recognize it, but the white-robed youth and the leader cultivator of the guards recognized it. They jumped in fright.


    "A Purple-colored Inspect Heavenly Token?"


    Likewise, their patriarch had a Purple-colored Inspect Heavenly Token. Such an existence had the authority to persecute any official under the fifth grade without waiting for approval, much less a young master who was not an official.


    "Senior." The leader of the guards bowed respectfully. The white-robed youth bowed immediately too.


    The person in front of them was an existence at the same level as their patriarch.


    "Hmph, to think the Ximen family is in such a state. To defile dozens of innocent girls in just two or three days?" Qin Yun said coldly. "I will discuss this matter with your Ximen family."


    "Yes." The leader of the guards and the white-robed youth responded.


    They left such a matter to those above them! They did not dare intervene.


    Qin Yun looked at the horrified duo who was huddled in the corner. He gave a gentle sigh.


    "Lord, thank you for saving us." The old woman and the beautiful girl kowtowed and thanked him. However, they were still feeling uneasy, afraid that the Ximen family would seek revenge later! After all, the Ximen family had just lost a young master.


    "Alright, go home, the both of you," said Qin Yun. "Don''t worry. I, Qin Yun, guarantee you that the Ximen family will absolutely not dare to even touch the both of you."


    With that said, he left a sliver of his Dharmic powers on the mother-and-daughter duo.


    "The Ximen family won¡¯t dare touch us?" The duo was a little flustered. To them, the Ximen family was like the heavens.


    "He said his name is Qin Yun? Is what he said of any worth?" Although the duo was feeling very uneasy, they were filled with gratitude.


    Qin Yun turned to shoot a glance at the white-robed youth and company. He instructed, "All of you return. Tell your family head that I''ll be visiting your Ximen family in an hour."


    "Yes, Senior. We will take our leave." The white-robed youth and company did not dare utter a word. They quietly left with Ximen Cheng''s corpse. After all, what could they say when a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador was the one who killed a person? In addition, Ximen Cheng had conducted himself terribly. Even his brother did not feel any pity in regards to his death. "With him dead, many ladies will probably escape this calamity. I guess it can be considered a good thing." The white-robed youth heaved a sigh of relief.


    Qin Yun left after that.


    He continued walking through the city in search of signs of the mysterious fiendish demon.


    ¡­


    In a tea restaurant.


    A middle-aged man was listening to a lady sing a tune. He was watching the people walking up and down the streets with a smile.


    "Yin Lihuo is no match for me. Primordial Chaos Sect, what else can you do? Send the only Paramount realm existence in the sect to risk his life?" The middle-aged man scoffed inwardly. "Such a large sect would not dare to take such a risk."


    "No good." The jade bottle under his clothes immediately sent a voice transmission. "Leave quickly. Head southeast. Quick!"


    "What''s the matter?" asked the middle-aged man puzzledly.


    "Qin Yun is here!" Jade Bottle said urgently with a voice transmission. "He is using his sword intent domain to probe every part of this city. He is approaching us. We have to leave quickly."


    "Qin Yun?" The middle-aged man also felt flustered.


    Grand Dominance County''s Qin Yun, the number one sword immortal in the world. His reputation preceded him, so the middle-aged man was naturally afraid.


    "You have no means of matching him?" asked the middle-aged man with a voice transmission. "You can''t even ensure my safety?"


    Over the past few years, the jade bottle had been helping him, making him think it was omnipotent.


    He left a road of corpses in his wake, and rarely was there anything he couldn''t kill! Even the Physical Establishing Sage lineage''s Yin Lihuo had been severely injured by him. He even had a feeling that, with the jade bottle''s help, he was in no way inferior to the Paramount realm. Perhaps he had a chance of matching Qin Yun in combat?


    "That is Qin Yun! If I had another ten years, I might be able to help you fight him! Now, it''s best we hide as far away from him as possible! Don''t go courting death!" urged Jade Bottle. "Quick, cut the crap and leave immediately!"

 226 His Reputation Preceded Him

    Chapter 226: His Reputation Preceded Him


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The middle-aged man''s heart palpitated.


    Years ago, he was one of the Black Turtle Palace disciples that watched the battle in which Qin Yun killed Azure Wing Demon King! However, he was only an ordinary Connate True Core realm cultivator at the time. He wasn''t even an Azure-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador. He lacked the ability to grasp how profound and terrifying Qin Yun''s flying sword arts were. He reached the Connate Golden Core realm two years after he obtained the jade bottle.


    When he used fiendcelestial methods, his combat strength could match those at the Paramount realm. Coupled with the many amazing techniques the jade bottle was capable of, he led a high and mighty life in an invincible manner.


    Now, the jade bottle was telling him ''hide as far away from him as possible! Don''t go courting death!'' It truly chilled his heart.


    "That''s right. Jade Bottle isn''t omnipotent."


    "Leave quickly." The middle-aged man left behind some silver and immediate cast a Divine Concealment Spell before leaving the tea restaurant.


    He quickly departed the area.


    The middle-aged man said disgruntledly, "I have to destroy the Ximen family. Even if Qin Yun is here, I still want them destroyed. Jade Bottle, do you have any solutions?"


    "Sigh, what''s most important for you now is to leave Yanglai County and hide far away," persuaded Jade Bottle.


    "Do you have any solutions?" pressed the middle-aged man.


    "If you are bent on tormenting the Ximen family to death, let''s do it this way. Once Qin Yun comes within fifteen hundred meters of us, I''ll be able to sense him! You have to maintain a distance of at least fifteen hundred meters from him at all times," said Jade Bottle. "Once I sense him, you have to immediately distance yourself."


    "Alright." The middle-aged man''s eyes lit up.


    "Seriously¡­"


    The Jade Bottle secretly grumbled. "In the past, that mantis demon was too cautious. He was extremely wary of me. This human cultivator is easy to influence but he is inclined towards insanity. While being trapped in this bottle, I''m at my weakest. It''s during this time when I should keep a low profile the most."


    There were benefits to his flaws. As the middle-aged man was inclined to taking insane risks, he was easily influenced by Jade Bottle. Jade Bottle gained many benefits from this dynamic and expedited its escape from the bottle.


    "I have been sealed since ancient times. Thankfully, the seal has been gradually wearing out and, with external help, I have accelerated the damage. It won''t be too much longer before I can escape." Jade Bottle anticipated the moment. "But for now, I still have to make use of him."


    ¡­


    Yanglai County City.


    Qin Yun had traveled all the main streets of the city and probed with his sword intent domain carefully; yet, he did not discover the great fiendish demon. Instead, he saw some Ximen family clansmen that went insane in the face of death. There were two that were lost in hysteria like Ximen Cheng. They acted in an unbridled manner and had caused the deaths of many. Qin Yun naturally killed the two of them in passing.


    "I didn''t find it." Qin Yun frowned slightly and shook his head gently. "I''ll first go to the Ximen family to take a look. It clearly has the strength to severely injure Yin Lihuo, making it capable of wiping out the entire Ximen family. But it hasn¡¯t done so. Instead, it kills up to a hundred clansmen a day. It is slowly killing them¡­ making this a deliberate attempt to torment the Ximen family. It would not have done so unless there is some huge vendetta."


    Qin Yun pondered over the matter as he headed for the Ximen family manor.


    As for the Ximen family, it received Ximen Cheng''s corpse.


    "Young Master Cheng is dead too?" The clansmen were alarmed.


    "Cheng''er."


    Ximen Zhen and company were in the front yard when they saw the corpse being carried in. Once it was discovered to be Ximen Cheng''s corpse, a senior from the clan rushed over. Even the family head, Ximen Zhen, rushed over since Ximen Cheng was his grandson.


    "This is¡­"


    "He isn''t sucked dry of his flesh and blood."


    The clansmen were all astonished.


    Ximen Zhen was appalled too. Yin Liehuo had come to investigate the matter with his junior brother.


    "What happened? Who killed Cheng''er?" Ximen Zhen immediately looked at the guards that brought the corpse back.


    "It was sword Qi. The killer is likely an expert that has knocked open the gate of immortality, very possibly a Connate realm cultivator." A clansman made the judgment immediately.


    "What lawlessness! A great fiendish demon is secretly killing my Ximen family clansmen and now there''s someone else sneaking an attack on us? Do they really think our Ximen family is that easily bullied?" roared a clansman angrily.


    They were forced to endure the mysterious great fiendish demon, but now there were others that had their sights on the Ximen family?


    "Grandfather, Brother was killed by a Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador," said the white-robed youth immediately.


    Purple-token Inspector Heavenly Ambassador?


    There was immediate silence.


    Instead, Yin Liehuo''s eyes lit up. He immediately, asked, "Which Inspector Heavenly Ambassador is it?"


    The white-robed youth said under his breath, "He said his name is Qin Yun. He also said he would come to see our Ximen family in a while. He wants to have a chat regarding my brother''s defiling of dozens of innocent ladies in the recent days."


    "Qin Yun?" Ximen Zhen revealed a look of delight. "My Ximen family is saved! It''s saved!"


    "It''s Qin Yun? The number one sword immortal in the world, Qin Yun?"


    "Grand Dominance County''s Qin Yun is supposedly invincible. All the great fiendish demons in the world went into hiding because of him."


    "He is here in Yanglai County?"


    "The Ximen family is saved."


    All the clan elders were feeling extremely excited.


    His reputation preceded him.


    Ordinary people might not know much about Qin Yun but any sizable family clan in the world with a good news network would know of the number one sword immortal in the world, Qin Yun! All the great fiendish demons in the world were hiding because of this terrifying sword immortal. It was said that his strength was the greatest in the world.


    "Sword Immortal Qin is here." Yin Lihuo smiled. "Since Sword Immortal Qin is here, there is nothing for your Ximen family to worry anymore."


    Ximen Zhen nodded immediately.


    The talk of the world was that Sword Immortal Qin Yun was the strongest in the world!


    However, the family head of the Ximen family, Ximen Zhen, as well as experts like Yin Lihuo, knew very well that it was an exaggeration! The truth was that Qin Yun was considered invincible only beneath immortals and fiendcelestials! The Sacred Reverend Dharvana from Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, who had stepped into the Dao as well, was likely comparable to Qin Yun. However, Qin Yun was capable of killing his enemies with his flying sword a thousand kilometers away, so the fear he struck into the hearts of demons was naturally greater than that of Sacred Reverend Dharvana.


    Which great fiendish demon would not shudder in fear of the thought of being pursued by a flying sword for a thousand kilometers?


    "Sword Immortal Qin will be here later. He abhors evil and will not tolerate evil people." Yin Lihuo shot a glance at Ximen Zhen and said, "Your Ximen family has probably treated the lives of others with utter disregard in recent days, isn''t that so?"


    "Sigh."


    Ximen Zhen immediately whispered, "In the past, those juniors did not dare act in such an unbridled fashion. Or if they did, they would do it in secret, afraid that the family might discover it! But now, with up to a hundred clansmen dying every day¡­ it''s true that some clansmen have gone crazy. They act without fear and do whatever they want."


    "Discuss this with Sword Immortal Qin in a while," said Yin Lihuo indifferently.


    ¡­


    Ximen Zhen and the upper echelons of the family, as well as many clansmen, were waiting by the entrance.


    Before Qin Yun arrived, the corpses of another two Ximen family members were brought back. They were people who had utterly disregarded the lives of others. It left the Ximen family members very perturbed.


    "These bunch of good-for-nothings! I hope they did not infuriate Sword Immortal Qin."


    "What should we do if Sword Immortal Qin does not help the Ximen family because of this?"


    "They are a bunch of good-for-nothings. The rest of the clansmen are innocent."


    Everyone discussed fervently. They were feeling quite uneasy.


    The Ximen family had prospered for more than a hundred years. It went from an ordinary family clan with dozens of people to a large family clan with thousands of clansmen! These days, although hundreds had died, more than half of them remained alive! They had a strong desire to continue living.


    Finally, on the streets a distance away, a blue-robed man could be seen walking over.


    As the blue-robed man walked over, his body turned into a blur with each step as he traversed hundreds of feet. In just a few steps, he was at the Ximen family''s entrance.


    "Daoist Qin." Yin Lihuo immediately bowed and greeted warmly.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I greet you on behalf of the Ximen family." Ximen Zhen led by kneeling down. Immediately, a large group of people behind him knelt down. At that moment, only Yin Lihuo and his junior brother were still standing.


    Qin Yun looked at all the kneeling Ximen family members before he said with a frown. "Arise, all of you."


    "Daoist Yin." Qin Yun looked at Yin Lihuo and nodded slightly.


    Only then did all the members of the Ximen family stand up.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I humbly stand before you as Ximen Zhen. I am in charge of the Ximen family''s daily affairs." Ximen Zhen was somewhat terrified. After all, the number one sword immortal in the world was a very famous accolade. Even Patriarch Ximen was far from comparable to the person in front of him. Besides, the person in front of him could save his entire family. "Over the past few days, my Ximen family has been pushed to the brink of destruction. Amid this calamity, some of the family members have gone insane and treated the lives of others with utter disregard. My Ximen family is truly ashamed. We have let down our fellow townsfolk. It further shames my Ximen family that Sword Immortal Qin had to rid them on our behalf. Sword Immortal Qin, do not worry. The victimized townsfolk will definitely be compensated by my Ximen family. Any clansman that harms others and commits crimes will be severely punished. Not one of them will be spared!"


    "Alright. Those that were harmed will be compensated. Those that did evil are not to be spared. I heard that very clearly," said Qin Yun indifferently. "I will get the Inspector Heavenly Alliance to watch your Ximen family."


    "Yes, yes, yes." Ximen Zhen began sweating from his forehead.


    When he heard what Qin Yun said, he immediately made the decision to be more ruthless towards his clansmen.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Although he had killed three members of the Ximen family that had committed atrocities, it was a large family clan with more than a thousand people. Black sheep were unavoidable. But there were also good people in the family clan who were innocent. For example, Qin Yun had a good impression of the white-robed youth that had stopped Ximen Cheng. Secondly, there was a mysterious great fiendish demon behind all of this! Qin Yun would not spare any great fiendish demon.


    "Daoist Qin, let''s talk inside," said Yin Lihuo with a smile. He felt relieved seeing Qin Yun here. No Connate Golden Core cultivator from the Primordial Chaos Sect at present was Qin Yun''s match.


    "I just arrived in Yanglai County and am unaware of many matters. Daoist Yin, you have made contact with that great fiendish demon so you should know quite a lot." Qin Yun smiled and nodded. He entered together with Yin Lihuo.


    The clan elders of the Ximen family immediately followed and awaited instructions.

 227 Suspected Dharma Treasure

    Chapter 227: Suspected Dharma Treasure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yin Lihuo led the gray-robed Daoist and Qin Yun to a pavilion where they sat down. Maidservants served them tea and pastries while the Ximen family clan elders stood outside the garden to await further instruction. They did not dare disturb Qin Yun and company.


    "I''m relieved that fellow Daoist Qin is here," said Yin Lihuo with a smile.


    "Daoist Yin, with your strength and the famous Physical Establishing Sage being extremely capable of life preservation, you would even be able to fight existences at the Paramount realm. How were you seriously injured by the great fiendish demon?" Qin Yun asked puzzledly. "Is his strength greater than that of a Paramount realm existence?"


    "In terms of strength, he was at best Senior Brother''s equal," said the gray-robed Daoist.


    "Equal?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    Practitioners of the Physical Establishing Sage were well known for being difficult to kill! If someone stronger could not even kill him, why was someone equal in strength able to severely injure Yin Lihuo?


    Yin Lihuo nodded and said, "Yes, that mysterious great fiendish demon''s strength is indeed my equal. However, he has a strange Dharma spell that I have never seen or heard of before. While engaging him in combat, I could not prevent him from absorbing my body''s lifeblood. The closer I was to him, the more powerful the absorption! You should know that we Primordial Chaos Sect disciples focus on cultivating our bodies. We typically fight in close proximity, so while I was gritting my teeth to fight him, lifeblood was constantly being drained from my body. I eventually got to a point where I couldn¡¯t endure it and had to flee."


    "Your lifeblood was absorbed?" Qin Yun frowned. "I have never seen or heard of anything as powerful as you describe either."


    "That''s right. It''s too strange." Yin Lihuo nodded solemnly.


    "A Physical Establishing Sage expert, and one at the Connate Golden Core intent domain realm at that, can actually have his lifeblood absorbed away." Qin Yun shook his head. "This Dharma spell is too horrible. If there exists such a powerful Dharma spell, it shouldn''t be so unknown."


    "But even so, I felt it myself," said Yin Lihuo. "By the way, there''s more to it. The Ximen family clansmen were all in the compound with array formations isolating them from the outside world. However, the mysterious great fiendish demon¡­ was able to forcibly suck the flesh and blood off the Ximen family clansmen from outside the Ximen family manor and across the array formations. They were sucked dry to literally skin and bones, causing the Ximen family clansmen to die one after another. After their bodies are sucked dry of their flesh and blood, their corpses all end up the same. All that''s left is skin and bones."


    "Sucking their flesh and blood from outside an array formation?" Qin Yun murmured, "Such means are truly unimaginable."


    "When he killed the Ximen family clansmen, did you not use your intent domain to probe?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "Of course I did," said Yin Lihuo. "When I first arrived in the Ximen family, he killed a Ximen family clansman right in front of me. I probed with my intent domain and felt that a mysterious and sinister energy was seeping in from afar, sucking away the clansman''s flesh and blood!"


    "But the mysterious power can only be detected with an intent domain," continued Yin Lihuo. "I also took control of the Ximen family''s array formation and even used my psyche perception but failed to detect the mysterious power. Only the intent domain could sense it."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    One could pull the wool over someone''s eyes!


    Psyche perception could even be insulated.


    But to prevent detection from intent domain was just too difficult. Even most immortals and fiendcelestials were incapable of doing so.


    "And even sensing it didn¡¯t solve anything! My intent domain only has a range of eighty feet. I could barely determine that the mysterious power comes from the southwest. But no matter how I probed, I could not find any great fiendish demon in the southwest," explained Yin Lihuo. "My intent domain is too small, so there was no way for me to fully investigate the matter! Later, that great fiendish demon deliberately provoked me and lured me out to do battle."


    "Back then, I thought he was a fool. Who knew that during the battle, if I had not escaped as quickly as I did, my lifeblood would have been sucked dry, ending my life in the process?" Yin Lihuo was still feeling pangs of lingering fear.


    Qin Yun nodded. "I think this is not the work of some Dharma spell or divine power."


    "I felt it myself," remarked Yin Lihuo immediately.


    "I believe what you say, Daoist Yin," said Qin Yun. "However, the means of sucking out the lifeblood of others should not be some Dharma spell or divine power. How can such powerful means be unheard of? I''m of the opinion¡­ that it''s a special Dharma treasure. It might even be at the level of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    Yin Lihuo nodded immediately when he heard that. "That makes sense! The world would only have one such powerful Dharma treasure with the capability of sucking lifeblood. However, his ability to conceal his aura is redoubtable as well. Although I know he is secretly watching the Ximen family, I just can''t find him. Daoist Qin, do you have any solutions?"


    Qin Yun shook his head. "When I arrived, I searched Yanglai County City with my intent domain but failed as well. I believe he should be in the city, but he avoided me the moment he discovered me."


    "Then, what can be done?" asked Yin Lihuo.


    "If the first attempt to capture him fails, it''s highly possible we will frighten him away. There will be no second chance," said Qin Yun. "The best outcome would be to achieve success on the first try. In that case, I will need the Primordial Chaos Sect''s help."


    "Oh?" Yin Lihuo''s eyes lit up and said with a smile. "By the way, my Primordial Chaos Sect''s Elder Guo wants to meet you now, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Of course, where is the Elder?" asked Qin Yun.


    Yin Lihuo waved his hand.


    A phantom appeared in midair. It took the form of a frosty-looking elder. He looked at Qin Yun and said with a smile, "Sword Immortal Qin."


    Both Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo stood up.


    "Elder Guo." Qin Yun also knew that Elder Guo was an Essence Soul immortal of the Primordial Chaos Sect.


    "I''ll have to thank you, Sword Immortal Qin. If not for you, this matter would be a continuing headache even for my Primordial Chaos Sect," said the elder with a smile. "My Primordial Chaos Sect will be indebted to Sword Immortal Qin."


    "It''s only right to help one another when dealing with great fiendish demons," replied Qin Yun.


    "How can my Primordial Chaos Sect turn a blind eye to the help you are rendering us? By the way, I still need to request your help in finding my Primordial Chaos Sect disciple, Ximen Feng," said the elder. "Ximen Feng disappeared recently. His transmission mark has yet to dissipate, but there''s no way of contacting him. With the mysterious demon attacking the Ximen family recently, killing up to a hundred clansmen a day, I believe there must be some feud. We can also assume that Ximen Feng''s disappearance is very likely related to the mysterious great fiendish demon. Sword Immortal Qin, when you deal with the great fiendish demon, please investigate Ximen Feng''s whereabouts too."


    "Alright, I''ll try my best to. However, it can''t be helped if my investigations are fruitless," said Qin Yun.


    "We are already very grateful that Sword Immortal Qin is willing to help," said the elder with a chuckle.


    Those at the level of immortals and fiendcelestials thought highly of themselves.


    However, due to the restrictions of the heavenly rules, they still had to be very courteous to top Connate Golden Cores, especially people like Qin Yun, who was invincible beneath immortals!


    "This great fiendish demon has strange and unpredictable means. He''s also good at concealing himself," said Qin Yun. "I will also need the Primordial Chaos Sect''s help."


    "Oh? Feel free to speak, Sword Immortal Qin," said the elder.


    "I require an array formation. It doesn''t need to be powerful but it needs to be good for searching. In addition, it has to have a huge range. It must at least cover the entire Yanglai County City," said Qin Yun.


    "You do not need it to be powerful? That''s doable. I''ll send a disciple over with one," said the elder.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    An array formation that was used for searching was very simple. That day, the Primordial Chaos Sect sent a disciple to set up a Mist Lock Array in the Ximen family manor. Once triggered, a light mist would emanate the surrounding forty-five kilometers! In that radius, a search could be done thoroughly. However, it could not attack or trap enemies.


    "Daoist Qin, do you want to give this array formation a try?" asked Yin Lihuo.


    "No, it cannot be tested. Once it¡¯s activated, the great fiendish demon will learn of the array formation," replied Qin Yun.


    "To be honest," said a worried Yin Lihuo. "That great fiendish demon is adept at concealing his tracks. This array formation might not actually find him."


    "Don''t worry. The sole purpose of this array formation is to aid me. I will still have to depend on my flying sword when actually dealing with him," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, with this array formation, I gauge success to be seventy percent at the very least."


    "Daoist Qin, it''s good that you have the confidence. What do we do now?" asked Yin Lihuo.


    "Let all the Ximen family members live in the main ancestral building!" said Qin Yun. "We just need to wait."


    "Alright." Yin Lihuo nodded with a smile. "Then, Daoist Qin, I''ll be looking forward to seeing your capabilities."


    Qin Yun rested in a yard in the middle of the Ximen Manor''s ancestral building. His intent domain covered a thousand feet around him, completely immersing the ancestral building! The Ximen family clansmen lived in the house , constantly under his watch.


    Qin Yun would detect the enemy the moment he took action.


    "Time to wait. I hope he hasn''t been scared off," thought Qin Yun.


    If the enemy had escaped thousands of miles away never to return, there would be nothing he could do.


    ¡­


    Two days passed.


    No clansmen from the Ximen family died! The great fiendish demon did not take action again.


    "As expected of Sword Immortal Qin. The great fiendish demon turned frightened the moment he arrived."


    "Not a single person has died. That great fiendish demon does know fear."


    "I wish Sword Immortal Qin could kill that great fiendish demon."


    The Ximen family clansmen were happy but worried at the same time.


    They worried that if the great fiendish demon continued hiding, Sword Immortal Qin would eventually leave. What would happen if the great fiendish demon came for them again?


    ¡­


    On the third day of Qin Yun''s arrival.


    Twenty-five hundred meters south of the Ximen family, in a VIP room of a three-storied restaurant, a middle-aged man pushed the windows open and looked to the north where the Ximen family was.


    "It''s the third day. He has yet to leave," said the middle-aged man with a snort. "However, even Qin Yun cannot stop me."


    "Yu Shiqi, can''t you bear with it? Just for a few more years? I refuse to believe that Qin Yun will guard the Ximen family for years," said Jade Bottle with a voice transmission.


    The middle-aged man said coldly, "I can''t bear with it!"


    "Fine, fine. I''ll let you drop the idea forever." Jade Bottle could not do a thing either.


    The previous Azure Wing Demon King was too careful.


    This cultivator, Yu Shiqi was insane but easy to make use of. However, when he was having a bout of insanity, Jade Bottle could not control him.


    "Then, I''ll begin," said Jade Bottle with a voice transmission.


    "Alright." The middle-aged man looked coldly towards the Ximen family.


    "Phew."


    Jade Bottle sensed the living beings in the Ximen family. It marked one of the clansmen and began absorbing their lifeblood from a distance! Sucking the lifeblood of a mortal¡ªone who had yet to knock open the gate of immortality¡ªacross twenty-five hundred meters was Jade Bottle''s present limit.

 228 Trapped Beas

    Chapter 228: Trapped Beast


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside Ximen Manor.


    The clansmen were gathered in groups, scattered in various spots. As instructed by Qin Yun, they had to go about their days in a specific region. Thankfully, there were many servants to tend to them. The servants were free to move about, because this mysterious great fiendish demon acted oddly. He only attacked the members of the Ximen family, as well as the cultivators that came to help them. As for the ordinary servants, none of them fell victim.


    When Qin Yun noticed this, he sighed. These actions did not resemble that of a great fiendish demon. Instead, they was akin to those of great demons from Heavenly Demon Palace.


    "Big!"


    "Small!"


    A group of Ximen family clansmen was gathered in a hall, playing dice.


    "Open!"


    Everyone stared wide-eyed at the wooden bowl.


    A thin youth gave an odd chuckle, "Everyone watch closely. As the house, I''m going to wipe you all out!" As he spoke, he opened the wooden bowl.


    "One, two, five. Small!" The thin youth quickly distributed and took the money. "This is yours. This is yours. This is mine. Ah, what a pity. I didn''t wipe you all out. I earned only a little."


    "Let''s have another round." A glint flashed in the thin youth''s eyes.


    "Master Bian, you sure made a killing today. You have really good luck. I, on the other hand, am doomed. I have lost everything," a person beside him flattered. "Can you loan me some silver? I''ll return it to you when I recoup my losses."


    "There is to be no borrowing of money in gambling," rejected the thin youth directly. "Place your bets. Quick! Finalize your bets!"


    At that moment¡ª


    The thin youth''s face suddenly flushed red as the flesh and blood in his body was rapidly sucked away. He thinned at a discernible speed.


    The Ximen family clansmen who were betting by the side had drastic changes in expression when they saw this.


    "It''s here again."


    "That great fiendish demon is here again."


    "Oh no."


    The clansmen were horrified. After two days of inaction, the great fiendish demon had reared its head once again.


    ¡­


    In a yard inside the ancestral building, Qin Yun was sitting quietly on grass. He was cultivating, but his sword intent domain continued to envelope a thousand feet of his surroundings. The entire ancestral building was within his purview. There were people gambling, producing calligraphy, cultivating, having sex, and all sorts of other things. There were all kinds of people. Although Qin Yun was constantly paying attention, he did not do so with full concentration. He was mostly focused on improving his sword art.


    Suddenly¡ª


    In his sword intent domain, a mysterious and sinister power crept over from the south. It targeted the thin gambling youth.


    "He''s finally here."


    Qin Yun opened his eyes as a sharp glint flashed in them.


    ou!


    Instantly, Qin Yun transformed into a beam and headed south, straight for the mysterious and evil power.


    As he flew, Qin Yun instantly triggered the Mist Lock Array that had already been set up. Instantly, forty-five kilometers around the Ximen family began to be covered in a thin mist. The thin mist also appeared everywhere in Yanglai County City, be it the streets, the residences of the commoners, or wealthy manors.


    "Daoist Qin has taken action?" Yin Lihuo was also at Ximen Manor. He noticed that Qin Yun had transformed into a beam and headed south. He also transformed into a blazing inferno and flew south. However, his speed was clearly slower.


    "He''s right ahead!"


    Qin Yun flew south in the form of a beam. His sword intent domain constantly enveloped a thousand feet of his surroundings.


    As he headed south, he naturally sensed the mysterious power. Qin Yun had long cultivated the Beam Transformation Art to the ninth level. It was powered by the purplish-gold Golden Core so how astonishingly fast was his flying art? He was not much inferior to the Elder Sword of yesteryear. In fact, when it came to Dharmic powers, Elder Sword was not even comparable to Qin Yun. Only his realm was higher.


    With his flying art, he traveled about two kilometers in a blink of an eye.


    ¡­


    On the third floor of the restaurant.


    The middle-aged man was still standing by the window, looking north. Jade Bottle was sucking the thin youth¡¯s lifeblood from a distance.


    "No good. Quickly leave! Qin Yun is here! Quick, head east! Go, now!" Jade Bottle sent an anxious voice transmission. It could sense Qin Yun''s extremely fast flying art and although they were twenty-five hundred meters away from the Ximen family, Qin Yun would catch up to them if they hesitated for even a minute longer.


    As Jade Bottle anxiously urged him, it instantly severed the suction.


    If it continued sucking, the mysterious evil power would only lead Qin Yun right to them.


    Although the suction had been severed, Qin Yun would continue flying in the direction that he sensed the power coming from. When Qin Yun passed overhead, his sword intent domain would sweep the area and be able to discover them if they were still a thousand feet from the restaurant! No matter how much the middle-aged man converged his aura, he had an aura at the Connate Golden Core realm. There was no way to hide it from Qin Yun.


    "What?" Yu Shiqi was alarmed.


    However, he rapidly transformed into a stream of light as he leaped out of the third floor of the restaurant and headed east. His speed was extremely fast as well.


    When Qin Yun flew over the restaurant, he was already half a kilometer away from the restaurant. Qin Yun''s sword intent domain naturally could not detect him.


    "He''s fast."


    Qin Yun suddenly stopped in midair.


    The commoners in Yanglai County City continued their bustle and went about their ordinary lives. As for Qin Yun, he turned to head east in midair. A cold smile suffused his lips. "Instantly escaping half a kilometer away. However, there''s no way you can escape." Qin Yun transformed into a beam and whizzed towards the east, in pursuit of the escapee.


    The middle-aged man who was escaping heaved a sigh of relief.


    "No good, this thin mist is the work of an array formation. We have been discovered." Jade Bottle said urgently. "Keep escaping east. Escape at your maximum possible speed."


    "What?"


    As the middle-aged man escaped, he remained alarmed. "Aren''t you able to insulate us from psyche probes? To the point that even the Heaven and Earth powers cannot discover us?"


    "This mist is covering the whole city. It''s not Heaven and Earth powers but an array formation''s powers. Any sentient being that moves in the array formation will be obstructed by the thin mist," said Jade Bottle. "Just like when you swim in water. You will disturb the flow of water. By flying inside the array formation, you are disturbing the mist, allowing the array formation''s controller to immediately detect our location."


    "Don''t slow down. Keep escaping. Let''s hope we can escape out of this array formation," said Jade Bottle with an anxious voice transmission.


    ¡­


    Indeed.


    With the Mist Lock Array, Qin Yun was able to observe all motion in a forty-five-kilometer radius. The enemy might be able to control the Heaven and Earth powers and isolate themselves from the probing of psyche perception, but the array formation''s powers were constantly powered by the array formation''s controller. Any movement by a sentient being in the city would stir the mist.


    "If he had stayed in his original spot or did not escape far, my sword intent domain would have discovered him when I arrived. And if he can escape more than a thousand feet away in a short amount of time¡­ that speed is not achievable by typical Connate False Cores," thought Qin Yun. "When I was in pursuit, there was only one being that was flying extremely fast in this direction. He has to be the murderer, that great fiendish demon!"


    He happened to be chasing.


    And this particular person was fleeing? Especially at such extreme speeds?


    Who else could he be but the murderer?


    According to the Mist Lock Array''s forty-five-kilometer range, other than himself and Yin Lihuo, who was following behind him, the murderer was the only one moving so quickly.


    "Sou!"


    The Beam Transformation Art rapidly pursued the murderer. With a wave of his hand, Qin Yun released the Seven Kills Sword.


    Shoo!


    The Seven Kills Sword transformed into a stream of light and moved at a speed even faster than Qin Yun.


    "We won''t be able to escape," said Jade Bottle with a voice transmission. "The flying sword is coming. There''s no way to flee. We aren''t even able to escape out of Yanglai County City."


    "What?" The middle-aged man panicked.


    "We can''t hold back anymore!" He clenched his teeth as his body phased into a Fiendbody. He was more than ten feet tall and his body was covered with black scales. His eyes were red, and there were two gigantic curved horns growing from his head. Any cultivator who saw this fiendbody would recognize it as a great fiendish demon.


    After he revealed his Fiendbody, the middle-aged man continued escaping east.


    But with a whoosh, a flying sword overtook him and stopped in front of him.


    "Flying sword?" The middle-aged man halted in his tracks. In his Fiendbody state, he looked at the floating and blurry flying sword. He had a twisted expression.


    "I wonder which great fiendish demon you are from the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons." Qin Yun''s voice sounded behind him.


    The middle-aged man, in his Fiendbody form, turned back. Qin Yun was already hovering in midair not far behind him, glaring at him.


    Behind him was Qin Yun and in front of him, a flying sword that blocked his way.


    At that moment, the middle-aged man finally felt that he was truly in trouble. "Jade Bottle, what do I do now?"


    "Fight it out. Perhaps you might survive." Jade Bottle replied with a voice transmission and did not speak again.


    However, Jade Bottle was cursing inwardly. "Fool, what a fool. I told him to escape! I told him to leave! He refused. I allowed him to kill the Ximen family and it could have been done in one go but he insisted on tormenting them slowly¡­ He still refused to escape when Qin Yun arrived. He still wanted to continue tormenting the Ximen family? Great! Now we are targeted. It looks like this helper of mine is finished."


    "Whatever, the seal on the jade bottle is almost half gone. It won''t be long before I can escape. I must turn my thoughts to my next host. Will it be this Qin Yun?" Jade Bottle pondered in secret.

 229 Capturing Alive

    Chapter 229: Capturing Alive


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Above the bustling Yanglai County City, a large gap stood between Qin Yun and the ten-foot-tall mysterious great fiendish demon. Yin Lihuo flew over in the form of a flame before he stopped a distance away and did not approach any closer.


    "He''s that great fiendish demon." Yin Lihuo recognized at a glance and could not help but become agitated. "Daoist Qin does indeed have extraordinary means. He was able to find the great fiendish demon the moment he took action. Since the demon is blocked, he''s doomed."


    "I''m asking you a question."


    Qin Yun looked at the mysterious demon with interest. "Although there are many demons in this world, they usually leave traces. Your strength is nowhere inferior to Daoist Yin and with that strange Dharma spells of yours, you are even more powerful. Yet, we humans have no intelligence on you. That''s truly odd. Were you hiding in some rural region cultivating all this time? One that had no contact with the outside world?"


    "Why do you care what lineage I''m from?" The demon stared coldly at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, don''t you humans have very good relations with the Heavenly Demon Palace? You don¡¯t kill demons without good reason, isn''t that so? Although I cultivate in the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations, I have not committed atrocities towards humans. Qin Yun, you wouldn''t target¡­ a demon that doesn''t wantonly kill humans¡­ would you?"


    "Naturally, I will not kill good demons." Qin Yun nodded. "But you have already taken the lives of hundreds of people in a matter of days."


    "Almost all that I have killed were people from the Ximen family. I have a feud with them, can''t I seek my revenge? Is that your business?" shouted the mysterious demon.


    "You say you have a feud with them? If other great fiendish demons were to commit atrocities and say that it was only because they were enemies, isn''t that too convenient an excuse?" Qin Yun shook his head. "Tell me clearly, how and when did the Ximen family enter this feud with you?"


    The demon was stumped.


    He was at a loss for words.


    "Qin Yun, I have no interest in being your enemy. Don''t force me." The demon stared at Qin Yun. "This is Yanglai County City. There are many people in the city and if we really fight it out, I do not know how many humans would die along with me."


    "Hmph, do you think you have what it takes?" A sharp glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Shoo!


    The hovering Seven Kills Sword suddenly moved in the form of a translucent stream of light.


    The demon''s expression changed immediately. He charged at Qin Yun in the form of a beam in a bid to enter close combat. At the same time, he sent a voice transmission, "Jade Bottle! Jade Bottle! I''ll close the distance with Qin Yun, you suck his lifeblood."


    "Alright, the closer the better," replied Jade Bottle.


    Shoo!


    The Seven Kills Sword was already in front of him. The translucent sword beam appeared like a dreamy illusion and in response, the demon brandished a saber to block it. His saber arts were rather profound as they produced a gigantic eight trigram and touched the Seven Kills Sword! Qin Yun pricked up his brows in astonishment. "This saber art is quite interesting. It seems to resemble Daoist methodologies." With a command, the Seven Kills Sword became unpredictable. With a whoosh, it made contact with the demon''s saber flash and easily diverted the strength away, cleaving straight into the demon''s shoulder. An arm covered in scales flew out.


    "Ah!" The demon cried out in pain.


    "No good, I can''t close in on him. Be it my Dharmic powers, realm, or Dharma treasures, none of them are comparable." The demon was feeling extremely nervous when he realized the situation he was in.


    "Go!"


    The demon gritted his teeth.


    The two curved horns on his head flew out, transforming into two black beams. They cleaved at Qin Yun like sabers.


    "Swoosh!"


    Qin Yun gently pointed his finger and two flying swords easily wrapped around the two curved horns like fingers. The two curved horns stopped in midair, completely bound by the flying swords.


    "This move is quite interesting," said Qin Yun with a nod.


    "What, it was that easily taken down?" The demon felt despair. He thought himself a bug that was trapped in a spider''s web, with no way to escape despite his desperate struggles. "Jade Bottle, did you manage to suck his lifeblood?"


    "How am I to suck it when we are so far away? Such an existence requires me to be as close as possible. It would be best if you can touch him. Right now, we are a hundred feet away. There''s no way to suck," said Jade Bottle through a voice transmission.


    When the demon heard that, he turned and transformed into a stream of light to escape.


    At the same time, he bellowed angrily, "Qin Yun, don''t force me. If you push me¡­ I''ll make countless mortals of Yanglai County City perish with me."


    "Such overestimation of your abilities." A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    The distant Seven Kills Sword instantly disassembled into seven flying swords.


    One of the flying swords turned and cast Cyclic Sword Flash! The gigantic spherical sword flash barrier trapped the demon.


    Cyclic Sword Flash could protect against external attacks from enemies.


    It could also be used to trap enemies! It prevented the enemies from escaping using the Heavenly Cycles.


    "Break!"


    The demon turned strangely murderous. His broken arm grew back as he cleaved down with a battle saber at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier. The Cyclic Sword Flash easily withstood the strike with a loud rumbling boom. The other six flying swords were floating inside the Cyclic Sword Flash too.


    "Kill." Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The six flying swords surrounded the demon and shuttled back and forth, lacerating the demon''s body.


    Instantly, blood splattered as a broken arm flew off.


    "No!" The demon felt despair but, no matter how he struggled, the difference in strength was too great. "I''m doomed!"


    "Whatever."


    "At least I have obtained my revenge." At that moment, the demon had accepted his impending death.


    "This fool! I previously told him to hide as far away from Qin Yun as possible and not court death. But he refused to listen. He''s just too prone to insanity," grumbled Jade Bottle secretly. "Great, now he is going to die under Qin Yun''s hand. Whatever, so what if he dies? As long as I keep quiet, I can pretend to be an ordinary treasure. Qin Yun would not be able to figure out what I am."


    "Perhaps, I might have a chance to entice him?" pondered Jade Bottle.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun controlled the six flying swords as they surrounded the demon and attempted to inject Dharmic powers into the mysterious demon''s body in a bid to seal off his strength.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The demon''s heart was the core of his Fiendbody so, with a surge of his powers, Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers were prevented from sealing him.


    Qin Yun looked at the demon and frowned. "His Fiendbody is rather strong. I''m not adept at Sealing Spells, and typical Dharma spells can''t seal him. Capturing him alive will be a little troublesome."


    Sealing-style Dharma spells?


    Qin Yun was only considered normal at those. Although the purplish-gold Golden Core''s Dharmic powers were sufficiently mighty, it was not capable of sealing a great fiendish demon at the intent domain realm.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Two bangles flew out! According to Qin Yun''s estimations, two Cosmic Bangles were sufficient to seal the mysterious demon when powered by his Dharmic powers.


    Phew! Phew!


    After the two bangles flew out, they entered the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier''s interior. They rapidly expanded and encircled the demon.


    "What is this?" The demon was alarmed but now that he was completely taken down, there was no way for him to resist.


    The two black bangles bound him and rapidly contracted. Instantly, they were wrapped around his body.


    The Cosmic Bangles were first-grade Dharma treasures! Qin Yun had taken years to figure out the Cosmic Heavenly Cycles that they contained. They were powerful in his hands.


    The two combined were naturally stronger.


    "I¡­"


    The demon felt his Dharmic powers being instantly sealed when he was bound by the two Cosmic Bangles.


    Be it Connate Golden Cores or the fiendcelestial powers inside a heart, even the soul and psyche were sealed from radiating outwards. The mysterious great fiendish demon''s appearance rapidly changed! Due to having his fiendcelestial powers sealed, his Fiendbody naturally began to undergo a change¡­ returning him to his true form.


    A wretched-looking middle-aged man with a broken arm appeared in midair. He was trapped by two Cosmic Bangles and was unable to escape no matter how much he struggled.


    "What? Why didn''t Qin Yun kill him? Instead he sealed his strength? What sort of treasure are these bangles? They are even able to seal the fiendcelestial powers that match an existence at the intent domain realm?" Jade Bottle was stunned.


    And on the other side.


    Qin Yun and the distant Yin Lihuo were shocked.


    "A human?" Qin Yun never imagined that the great fiendish demon from before would turn into a human after having his Dharmic powers sealed.


    He immediately understood. He had previously encountered Gongye Bing before after all! Gongye Bing was a human that cultivated in the fiendcelestial lineage.


    "You are human, yet you cultivate in the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations." Qin Yun shook his head but his gaze turned colder. Qin Yun''s killing intent for such betrayers of the human race was even stronger.


    Sou!


    The distant Yin Lihuo flew over with reddened eyes. He said angrily, "Junior Brother Yu, I never expected it to be you! We have been searching for you for a long time. Finally, the heavens have shone their light, allowing Daoist Qin to capture you today."


    "Junior Brother Yu?" Qin Yun realized something as he asked, "He''s Yu Shiqi?"


    Yin Lihuo''s eyes were filled with fury as he said with a nod, "That''s right. It''s that scum, Yu Shiqi. He caused the death of his fellow disciples. The Primordial Chaos Sect and the Black Turtle Palace have been searching for him for ages. We never expected him to cultivate the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations. He has truly fallen into the ways of evil and has severed all ties with his kinsmen."

 230 Yu Shiqis Revenge

    Chapter 230: Yu Shiqi''s Revenge


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The trapped Yu Shiqu remained silent despite facing Yin Lihuo''s fury. His eyes effused calmness and indifference as though nothing in the world mattered to him.


    The moment he was trapped by the Cosmic Bangles, Yu Shiqi knew he was doomed.


    "Yu Shiqi," bellowed Yin Lihuo. "The Black Turtle Palace treated you well, teaching you Dharmic formulations and guiding your cultivation before you managed to embark on the path of cultivation. When you encountered troubles, your fellow sect members stood by your side! I have not heard of you suffering many grievances at the Black Turtle Palace. So why did you commit such an atrocious act against your fellow disciples?"


    The Black Turtle Palace was a subsidiary of the Primordial Chaos Sect. As such, it was considered part of the Primordial Chaos Sect.


    Both shared the same roots, and Yu Shiqi and Yin Lihuo addressed each other as junior and senior brothers.


    "I''m apologize to Senior Brother Jin and the rest." Yu Shiqi nodded gently. "It was all my fault."


    "Why were you so vicious?" pressed Yin Lihuo. "What was the reason? Also, where did you learn this fiendcelestial Dharmic formulation? You cultivated to the Connate Golden Core realm as a Black Turtle Palace disciple. You were supposed to be basking in the limelight, so why did you suddenly fall to evil? You even killed your fellow disciples? Help us understand why!"


    This was something many disciples from the Black Turtle Palace and Primordial Chaos Sect could not figure out.


    He had no grudges, he was at the precipice of his cultivation career, so why would he suddenly kill his fellow disciples and abandon his sect?


    "Don''t ask any more," Yu Shiqi muttered. "It was my fault. I let Senior Brother Jin and the sect down."


    "What happened to the Ancient Blood Amber?" asked Yin Lihuo again. "After you killed Junior Brother Jin and the rest, you stole the Ancient Blood Amber that they were guarding. Where is the Ancient Blood Amber? Did you sacrifice it to the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons?"


    The Ancient Blood Amber was rather fascinating. It was a boon for Black Turtle Palace disciples in their cultivation of the Physical Establishing Sage. The Black Turtle Palace would usually arrange for a Connate Golden Core realm Elder and two Connate True Core realm cultivators to guard it. Yu Shiqi had silently killed those guards, snatched the Ancient Blood Amber, and secretly fled Black Turtle Palace.


    "Ancient Blood Amber?" Yu Shiqi shook his head. "It''s been used. It''s gone!"


    "Used? How?" pressed Yin Lihuo.


    Yu Shiqi fell silent.


    The jade bottle under his clothes secretly sneered. "Hehehe, of course it has been used by me. That Ancient Blood Amber was the condensation of blood essence after the death of an Other Realm Fiendcelestial! It''s a lot better than the blood of children''s hearts. With it, I was able to greatly weaken the seals, bringing the day of my release closer."


    ¡­


    Yin Lihuo pressed again, "Your fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations have been cultivated to such a high cultivation realm, which implies that you have been cultivating it for a long time. When did you succumb to evil? Or could it be that you were already a fiendish demon disciple when you entered the Black Turtle Palace?"


    Yu Shiqi did not speak again.


    "That''s enough."


    Qin Yun spoke up. "Daoist Yin, ask about Ximen Feng first."


    "Right, where''s Junior Brother Ximen?" asked Yin Lihuo.


    "Ximen Feng?" Yu Shiqi''s eyes lit up as a sneer suffused the corners of his mouth. "You want to meet Ximen Feng? Yes, he''s not dead yet. I¡¯ve just imprisoned him somewhere."


    Qin Yun asked, "Where is he imprisoned?"


    "I can bring you there," said Yu Shiqi with a chuckle.


    Qin Yun was surprised. Yu Shiqi was rather obliging when Ximen Feng was mentioned. He even took the initiative to lead the way.


    ¡­


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun, Yin Lihuo, and Yu Shiqi rode a cloud and left Yanglai County City. With Yu Shiqi''s guidance, they flew more than a hundred kilometers to a cave deep in the mountains.


    Although there were array formations concealing the area, Yu Shiqi¡¯s instructions made it easy to enter.


    "Whoosh." The cave was extremely hot.


    When Qin Yun and company entered, they quickly saw a chained couple. A middle-aged man and woman were each chained to a torture rack. Both were covered in injuries from torture and the racks were enveloped by an array formation that constantly assaulted the duo with flames.


    The couple sensed something and raised their heads.


    "Yu Shiqi!" The chained man shouted angrily when he saw Yu Shiqi. His voice was hoarse but it was filled with fervent hatred. However, when he saw Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo, and especially Yu Shiqi trapped in black bangles, he could not help but turn excited. "Hahaha, Yu Shiqi, to think that such a day has come for you. The heavens have eyes. Evil will eventually suffer retribution."


    "He''s captured?" The woman was already breathing her last few breaths of life but she could not help but be excited. "Good, this lunatic is finally caught. Awesome!"


    "Junior Brother Ximen, Junior Sister Qi?" Yin Lihuo recognized them and went forward instantly.


    "Do not move." Yu Shiqi said with a sneer. "If you come within a hundred feet of them, the surrounding array formation will trigger. They would be rapidly reduced to ash."


    Yin Lihuo''s expression changed as he halted.


    Qin Yun''s sword intent domain enveloped the area and even permeated the duo''s body. His expression could not help but change. "Daoist Yin, this Yu Shiqi has indeed set up an array formation. Both of them even have array formations sealing their innards. Any contact would instantly cause the seals to explode. The two would die instantly. By the way, both of them have been crippled of their dantians."


    "They are crippled?" Yin Lihuo was enraged the moment he heard that.


    Ximen Feng was a Connate Golden Core and Junior Sister Qi was a Connate True Core. They were crippled just like that?


    "Senior Brother Yin, save us." Ximen Feng''s voice was hoarse as he pleaded incessantly.


    "Senior Brother Yin," shouted the woman as well.


    "No one can save the two of you," said Yu Shiqi with a scoff. "The seals left in your bodies will explode your hearts and brains the moment contact is made."


    Ximen Feng''s eyes were red as he hollered, "Yu Shiqi, you lunatic. I regret showing you mercy by sparing you, and leaving such a scourge behind. You harmed your fellow disciples and us."


    "Mercy?"


    Yu Shiqi''s expression turned hideous. "Do you have any shame, mentioning the word mercy? Back then, you were a Primordial Chaos Sect genius disciple, with a high chance of reaching the Golden Core realm! You came to cultivate in my Black Turtle Palace for a few days and during those days, I treated you like a brother. I even let you live at my place as I discussed the Dao daily with you. But you? You ended up eloping with my wife."


    "What do you mean elope?" shouted Ximen Feng. "You and Junior Sister Qi were indeed Dao partners, but since there was no more love between you, both of you just went your separate ways. Junior Sister left willingly with me."


    "Willingly? She and I were arranged to be married before we were even born. We got married and she entered the Black Turtle Palace with me. We were together for nearly a century!" Yu Shiqi''s expression was hideous as he looked at the woman. "Feelings that lasted nearly a century. Qi Qingshui, you sure are heartless. Did you feel that Ximen Feng had a brighter future than me, and fell into his embrace?"


    "You and I are both cultivators. We come together and separate without a fuss," said the woman in a hoarse voice. "I never imagined a lunatic like you would hold this grudge for so long, to the point of wanting to torture me so terribly."


    ''"Hahaha¡­"


    Yu Shiqi laughed maniacally. "I have long seen through you. We were arranged to be married before we were born but I didn''t catch your eye when I came for visits. Later, when Master took me in as a disciple, you immediately clung to me and used me to enter Black Turtle Palace. I detest my younger self for being so infatuated with you. But we were together for nearly a hundred years, how can you be that heartless?"


    Cultivating Dao couples were more easygoing than mortal couples.


    If their paths diverted, it was not rare for them to go their separate ways.


    "And you, Ximen Feng," shouted Yu Shiqi. "I treated you as a brother but you flirted with my wife and even lost decorum to reprimand me. Back then, I was weaker than you and was even taught a lesson¡­ Haha, that slut even stood completely on your side. How shameful it was! It was truly a disgrace! Ever since I, Yu Shiqi, swore that the both of you would suffer a terrible end."


    "But you were much stronger than me. After waiting for so long, I finally decided that I would have my chance or I would suffer in silence my entire life." Yu Shiqi''s expression was hideous.


    Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo watched by the side in silence.


    Dao couples separating due to strife, with the woman entering the embrace of another, was something done completely willingly¡­ It was not something other fellow disciples were qualified to comment on.


    Back then, there were other disciples that said that "Ximen Feng was way too ruthless to do that" but there were also others that said, "Junior Sister Qi willingly followed Senior Brother Ximen, so if anyone is to blame, it should be Junior Brother Yu for his ineptness."


    Back then, many people pitied Yu Shiqi. But the more they pitied him, the more depressed he felt.


    "Ah!" Ximen Feng and Qi Qingshui suddenly yelled as they went ablaze in flames.


    "What?" Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo were alarmed.


    It was already too late.


    Qin Yun''s sword intent domain could sense it. Ximen Feng and Qi Qingshui''s hearts, brains, and other vital organs were burning. By the time they shouted, they were already turning to ash.


    "When I brought the both of you into the cave, the array formations had already been triggered. In fact, no matter who enters, they would automatically trigger the array formation unless I''m the one controlling it." Yu Shiqi looked at the two fiery wisps. "I deliberately spoke out to get a kick out of it! After I was done, I knew they would die! Watching them die was thrilling! Excellent!"


    Yu Shiqi''s eyes were filled with madness.


    Following that, Yu Shiqi looked at Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo.


    "Senior Brother Yin, I''m truly sorry about Senior Brother Jin and the rest. But to raise my strength for my revenge, I could not let guilt get in my way," explained Yu Shiqi. "I know I''m riddled with sins but whatever. What is done is done. I have no regrets and I''m thrilled with the outcome. Before I die, Sword Immortal Qin, I have something to tell you."


    Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo were astonished.


    "Something to tell me?" Qin Yun was perplexed.

 231 Bottle Stopper and Jade Bottle

    Chapter 231: Bottle Stopper and Jade Bottle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yu Shiqi looked at Qin Yun and said with a solemn expression, "Sword Immortal Qin, in my Cosmic Bag, there is a bottle stopper¡ª"


    Before he could finish his words, his eyes widened and he fell to the ground, breathless.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo were astonished.


    "He''s dead?"


    Qin Yun''s sword intent domain permeated Yu Shiqi''s body, and he realized that his heart had already shattered. His brain had been reduced to mush and even his Golden Core had dissipated. In Daoist cultivation, a Golden Core''s dissipation would at best result in a loss of all Dharmic powers. Those that cultivated in Fiendbodies, however, would definitely die once their core heart was shattered. But even in that case, they typically maintained a few seconds of consciousness. But when one''s brain turned to mush, their thoughts were instantly wiped out.


    ¡­


    "Darn it! Darn it!" Jade Bottle was incensed. "That lunatic. He even bit at me before his death! If he only allowed Qin Yun to kill him without a fuss, how good that would¡¯ve been! I could have feigned being an ordinary treasure flawlessly. Perhaps, I could feign being a damaged treasure."


    If Qin Yun had just killed Yu Shiqi in battle, he would¡¯ve continued being unaware of the uniqueness of the jade bottle. Jade Bottle would¡¯ve then been able to perfectly conceal itself.


    "But now, you almost revealed my secret and exposed me. You forced me to kill you! Thankfully, I left a trump card when I enhanced your Fiendbody. I made it so I could wipe you out of existence with a thought," thought Jade Bottle secretly. "Although I have killed Yu Shiqi, it was done clean. They shouldn''t suspect me."


    With Jade Bottle''s help, Yu Shiqi''s strength had increased rapidly.


    However, Jade Bottle had secretly left a kill switch in his body.


    If he dared betray the bottle? He would be instantly killed!


    "But to die for no good reason would ultimately seem strange. Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo must be suspicious of the cause of death."


    "I really did not want to take action. I hope they won¡¯t suspect me. Although I have greatly worn out the seal with the help of the Ancient Blood Amber, it is not yet time to escape," thought Jade Bottle. "The price of me forcibly escaping would be tremendous!"


    "I''ll wait a little longer. When the seal is completely worn out, it will be the easiest time for me to escape." Jade Bottle hoped.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo looked at Yu Shiqi''s corpse.


    With a beckon of his hand, Qin Yun retrieved the two Cosmic Bangles.


    "Strange." Yin Lihuo frowned.


    "It is very strange." Qin Yun was puzzled as well. "A Golden Core cultivator who has even cultivated a Fiendbody! How can he die just die out of the blue?"


    Yin Lihuo added, "My intent domain did not detect any external powers. However, if he wasn¡¯t attacked by something, how were his heart and brain destroyed?"


    "Even if it''s a hex, it would not be able to hide from our perception." Qin Yun was perplexed as well. "What kind of force made Yu Shiqi die so suddenly?"


    "I heard that¡­" said Yin Lihuo. "When the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons make sacrifices to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials, the Other Realm Fiendcelestials would bestow upon them power to enhance their strength. However, if they ever betray the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial would be able to kill the betrayer with a thought."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons were proud beings. When they made sacrifices to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials, they would deliberately request treasures and not a direct increase in strength! Of course, there were those that were willing to ask the Other Realm Fiendcelestials to directly increase their strength! After all, as long as they did not connect with the Other Realm Fiendcelestials and remained separated between the worlds, Other Realm Fiendcelestials were unable to influence the world they lived in.


    "There are Dharma spells that can leave seals on a person''s body," added Qin Yun. "They can also instantly kill others. However, that also requires the use of Dharmic powers to trigger the seal."


    "Yea." Yin Lihuo scanned his surroundings. "All we can confirm is that a mysterious existence killed Yu Shiqi."


    "Who could it be?" Qin Yun''s sword intent domain enveloped an area of a thousand feet but he did not discover anything.


    Qin Yun beckoned with his hand as the Cosmic Bag on Yu Shiqi''s body flew into his hand. He took a brief look at it. Many items in the Cosmic Bag were naturally of little worth to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun still remembered the last words of Yu Shiqi.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, in my Cosmic Bag, there is a bottle stopper¡ª"


    Before he finished his words, Yu Shiqi died.


    "His death might be related to a bottle stopper." Qin Yun made a silent guess. He carefully investigated the interior of the Cosmic Bag, which was nearly a hundred feet wide, bigger than ordinary halls. There were also many items inside. After all, a cultivator would require daily necessities and cultivation items while out in the world. Over time, they would place all sorts of miscellaneous items in their Cosmic Bag.


    With Yu Shiqi killing Ximen Feng and so many other cultivators, he had taken many items. Therefore, the items in his Cosmic Bag formed a tiny hill.


    "Bottle stopper. Where''s the bottle stopper?" Qin Yun searched carefully until, finally, he found a bottle stopper.


    "This bottle stopper¡­" Qin Yun flipped his hand and looked at the dark purple wooden stopper. "It''s made of Purple Zen Sanguine Wood? That''s extravagant. A small piece of Purple Zen Sanguine Wood is used as a stopper? Besides, there seem to be some mystic runes on it."


    He commanded with a thought.


    The bottle stopper rapidly increased in size and, with another thought, it rapidly shrunk.


    It could expand and contract! As for the mystic runes, they were rather profound. Furthermore, it seemed like a small portion of countless amounts of runes.


    "A portion of a Dharma treasure?" thought Qin Yun.


    By the side, Yin Lihuo asked, "Daoist Qin, did you find the Ancient Blood Amber? It has a powerful aura and is capable of stirring lifeblood. Just sensing it will cause one''s soul to tremble."


    "No," said Qin Yun as he shook his head. "You can take a look."


    Yin Lihuo searched the area with a sliver of Dharmic powers since it was an important treasure of the Black Turtle Palace! It was previously given to Black Turtle by the Primordial Chaos Sect, a gift meant to be the cornerstone treasure of Black Turtle Palace at its inception. In fact, the Black Turtle Palace and the Primordial Chaos Sect were two sides of the same coin. And the preciousness of the Ancient Blood Amber was enough to match two to three first-grade Dharma treasures. Yin Lihuo naturally had to search thoroughly.


    "It really is gone. Was it really given to the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons?" Yin Lihuo clenched his teeth. "This Yu Shiqi gave an important treasure of his sect to fiendish demons. His death really doesn''t merit any pity."


    "Daoist Qin, that Yu Shiqi is capable of absorbing lifeblood from afar. You mentioned that it should be the effect of a special Dharma treasure," asked Yin Lihuo. "Can you find that Dharma treasure?"


    "No, the most valuable item in the Cosmic Bag is a second-grade Dharma treasure. It doesn''t have any means to suck lifeblood. Perhaps, it is on his person?" Qin Yun looked at Yu Shiqi''s corpse.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    Various items on Yu Shiqi''s body flew over. There were the items he wore, some currency¡­as well as a seemingly ordinary jade bottle the size of a finger.


    "Eh?" Qin Yun beckoned and held the tiny jade bottle in hand.


    He sent his Dharmic powers into the bottle.


    "This jade bottle is ordinary." Qin Yun was baffled. "Is it an accessory, or something else? Why would Yu Shiqi carry such an ordinary item on his person?"


    "Is this bottle not special at all?" asked Yin Lihuo out of curiosity.


    "I don''t sense anything special. It''s very ordinary." As Qin Yun spoke, he looked down at this hands.


    His left hand held the tiny jade bottle and on the right hand was a bottle stopper.


    "Jade bottle, bottle stopper?"


    At that moment, Qin Yun seemed to have a thought. With that, the bottle stopper in his hand shrank and matched perfectly with the jade bottle. It was almost stuffed in.


    ¡­


    Jade Bottle anxiously monitored what was happening outside. When Qin Yun took out the bottle stopper from the Cosmic Bag, he cursed. "Yu Shiqi, you fool! You bloody fool!"


    Be it Azure Wing Demon King, who was extremely wary of him, or crazy Yu Shiqi, none of them threw away the stopper after pulling it out! Clearly, they had their reservations towards Jade Bottle.


    Had Yu Shiqi not mentioned it before his death, how likely was it that Qin Yun would especially take out a bottle stopper out of all the miscellaneous items in the mountain load worth of items in the Cosmic Bag?


    "Oh no."


    When Jade Bottle noticed Qin Yun pick up the jade bottle and hold the bottle stopper in his other hand, he no longer held any inkling of hope.


    "If it''s stuffed in, the seals will be empowered. How long will it take for me to escape?"


    "Whatever."


    "I have to escape now!"


    While in Azure Wing Demon King''s hands, he was not capable of escaping no matter how much he tried.


    But due to the Ancient Blood Amber, which greatly weakened the seal, he could escape if he paid a sufficiently high price. If he could escape, he absolutely did not wish for the wooden stopper to be stuffed in again.


    "Go on and¡ªcrack!" A terrifying might gathered as he even burned the essence energies within his body. With a boom, all his might blasted outwards!


    "Break!"


    After arduously breaking through the seal''s obstructions, a green arm suddenly rushed out of the jade bottle''s mouth.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was holding the jade bottle and the bottle stopper in each hand, almost about to put them together.


    But with a sudden boom, a terrifying might spewed out of the jade bottle. The strength of the might even caused a tumultuous explosion that surged in every direction! Qin Yun''s palm instantly failed to hold onto the jade bottle as it flew out of his grasp.


    The jade bottle that flew out floated in midair.


    A green arm extended out of the jade bottle.

 232 Qin Yun vs Fiendcelestial Part 1/3

    The green arm had smooth skin and five fingers. But what stood out most was the especially sharp fingernails.


    Following the green arm was a head that squeezed out of the bottle. The head was dark green in color and there was a purple scale on its glabella. It had two sharp horns and it emanated a terrifying aura that permeated the entire cave. Furthermore, the scale at its glabella naturally effused a formless fluctuation that seeped into Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo''s souls.


    Just after Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo recovered from the jade bottle¡¯s blast, they saw the creature crawling out of the jade bottle. They could not help but have a change in expression.


    "It''s a fiendcelestial!" Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo felt their hearts palpitate.


    The evil aura made Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo tremble involuntarily.


    That was a disparity stemming from life''s natural order. It was an innate, instinctual fear.


    "Ah!" Yin Lihuo held his head and grunted in pain.


    Qin Yun also felt an invisible blast affect his soul. Thankfully, his soul had been strengthened after being nourished by the purplish-gold Golden Core. His resistance was a lot stronger so all he felt was discomfort.


    "Daoist Yin, leave quickly." Qin Yun waved his hand as Dharmic powers carried Yin Lihuo away.


    "Daoist Qin, be careful of this fiendcelestial. It''s a lot more terrifying than any fiendcelestial I have previously encountered. It might even be an Other Realm Fiendcelestial." Daoist Yin wore a painful expression as he sent an anxious voice transmission.


    "Hahaha¡­Hahaha¡­" The fiendcelestial who had squeezed out an arm and head laughed with a thunderous voice that caused the cave to shake. "I''m out! I''m finally out!"


    The fiendcelestial looked at Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo.


    "How powerful." Qin Yun was alarmed. The fiendcelestial''s aura was too terrifying.


    "In a way, my escape is thanks to you two humans." The fiendcelestial looked at Qin Yun and Yin Lihuo. "And since I just came out, I do not wish to taint myself with karma. I will allow both of you to escape."


    "Daoist Qin, we have to leave quickly. This fiendcelestial is a lot stronger than us. Also, he is different from ordinary fiendcelestials. He is definitely an extremely powerful fiendcelestial that has been sealed away for a long time," said Yin Lihuo through a voice transmission. "I feel that he can easily destroy the both of us. He is only sparing us because of the heavenly rules and his unwillingness to be tainted with karma."


    However, Qin Yun showed no fear.


    Kill him?


    He had single-handedly changed the situation in the world. It was he who scared many great fiendish demons into hiding, leading to better days for countless commoners. With such huge positive karma, what immortal or fiendish demon would dare kill him? Those that dared to kill him would only end up dying instantly from the massive karma retaliation.


    The fiendcelestial had gone through such great effort to escape the bottle, so why would he be willing to end in mutual destruction with Qin Yun?


    As he was not afraid, Qin Yun was able to calmly study the situation. After the fiendcelestial''s head and arm came out, his entire body gradually squeezed outwards, so that more and more of his body appeared slowly.


    "You are trying to stall for time so that you can fully escape?" Qin Yun''s expression changed as he shouted, "Go!"


    He waved his right hand.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out from his fingertip.


    The scene of a surging tidal wave suddenly appeared. It raged over from the horizon and its roar reached a crescendo as the flying sword''s might turned more terrifying! Over the years, Qin Yun had already grasped three Paramount realms. He also gained more powerful sword moves. This move was called Grand Dominance Tide. It was built on Qin Yun''s original Lightning Tide foundations. It was finally perfected after watching the Grand Dominance Tide every year.


    The ferocious might of the Misty Rain Sword Art''s Grand Dominance Tide seemed to render the world asunder.


    "I permitted you to leave but you didn''t." The fiendcelestial suddenly waved his arm and his palm whizzed over. It appeared like a direct attack but in fact, its profundity was far above Qin Yun''s flying sword. With a whoosh, it smacked the flying sword, completely stopping it.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was sent flying from the hit.


    The blast that resulted from the collision rushed at Qin Yun in a material form. Qin Yun used his sword intent domain to immediately obstruct the blast wave.


    "The Heavens have their rules. I do not wish to kill you but if you keep embroiling yourself in this, I will not simply spare you. I will definitely make you suffer. Now, it''s best you scram far away," bellowed the fiendcelestial. Killing Qin Yun naturally meant a huge karma penalty, but a simple exchanging of blows was trivial. For instance, Elder Sword had fought several immortals and fiendcelestials in his day.


    "While he is resisting my attacks, the speed at which he comes out from the bottle slows down too." Qin Yun completely ignored the threat. Instead, he was focusing on the fiendcelestial''s body that was constantly squeezing out of the bottle.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Whew! Whew! Whew! Whew¡­


    Four flying swords¡ªIntrinsic Flying Sword, Heavy Sand Sword, Coiling Dust Sword, Wretched Blood Sword¡ªsurrounded the fiendcelestial and cast the fastest attack in the Misty Rain Sword Art¡ªBright Moon Over River.


    River waters surged as four bright moons rose.


    The sword beams resembled dreams.


    Enemies would be immersed in the dream before being struck by the swords.


    "This Qin Yun sure is irritating. He is deliberately attacking me at this crucial moment. I still need to divert attention so that I can fully break the seal." The fiendcelestial was especially enraged. While he resisted the damaged seal in the bottle, he was working hard on squeezing out. At the same time, he had to divert his attention to withstand Qin Yun''s flying sword! The might of Qin Yun''s flying sword wasn''t trivial. It was just barely capable of matching that of immortals.


    The four flying swords attacked together and the fiendcelestial could only use one hand to withstand them. While occupied with the diversion, he finally squeezed out his second arm with great difficulty.


    "He''s still coming out slowly. My flying swords can''t stop him." Qin Yun frowned. "The Cosmic Bangle is good for sealing and trapping enemies. I should give it a try."


    "Go," commanded Qin Yun.


    The three Cosmic Bangles on his wrist flew out simultaneously as they rapidly expanded into three gigantic black bangles. At the same time, they surrounded the fiendcelestial who was half out of the bottle. When it was surrounded, the three Cosmic Bangles shrank simultaneously to trap it.


    "Get lost." The fiendcelestial waved one of his palms and with a whoosh, the three mighty bangles were sent flying back.


    "Qin Yun, you are provoking me," roared the flying sword. As he withstood the flying swords and the Cosmic Bangle with one hand, his other hand extended towards Qin Yun. His arm expanded rapidly, along with his palm.


    Instantly, the huge palm expanded to the size of half the cave. It swept over in an attempt to grab hold of Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    "Cyclic Sword Flash." With a thought, the first-grade flying sword Seven Kills Sword cast the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier to withstand the gigantic palm.


    Simultaneously, the Intrinsic Flying Sword rapidly flew back.


    After some grinding sounds, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier formed by the Seven Kills Sword lasted only for a moment before shattering under the gigantic palm''s strike.


    "Again." The Intrinsic Flying Sword cast the Cyclic Sword Flash in a bid to resist the ensuing attack.


    As the gigantic palm held the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, the sword flashes trembled but did not instantly crack.


    Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. "The suppression he emits appears very strong, as though he can crush me with a single finger. But when we truly cross swords, he isn''t that ridiculously strong. There is a limit to how much stronger he is than me."


    How could he know?


    This fiendcelestial had been sealed since ancient times. After being imprisoned for so long, its strength had greatly decreased!


    In order to come out, it burnt its blood essence and was weakened once more. At that moment, the fiendcelestial was in an unprecedented state of weakness. Furthermore, he had to divert his attention to resist the seal. The amount of strength he could produce was naturally limited.


    The aura he emitted represented their lives'' natural order! But that was all superficial! He was too weak!


    But even in his weakness, the first-grade flying sword''s Cyclic Sword Flash failed to resist his attacks.


    "Go." Qin Yun focused all his attention into controlling the Heavy Sand Sword, Cosmic Bangle, and Wretched Blood Sword, as well as the three Cosmic Bangles, to attack the fiendcelestial.


    The fiendcelestial resisted the attacks with one hand and used his other hand to deal with Qin Yun. At the same time, its body was trying to escape while withstanding the seal.


    This incensed the fiendcelestial.


    Although he would not dare to kill Qin Yun, he did plan on teaching Qin Yun a lesson he would never forget.


    "Qin Yun, you are trying my patience," growled the fiendcelestial softly. Following that, he opened his mouth and began to suck at Qin Yun.


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying suction power instantly acted on Qin Yun''s body. His expression changed. The Cyclic Sword Flash barrier expanded to block out half the cave. It also blocked the fiendcelestial''s mouth.


    But the suction force continued to suck away at Qin Yun''s flesh.


    Back then, the suction of lifeblood was still incredibly powerful despite the jade bottle obstructing it. Now, even with the fiendcelestial at his weakest, this suction caused Qin Yun''s flesh and blood to be rapidly drained away. He was thinning at a discernible speed.

 233 Qin Yun vs Fiendcelestial Part 2/3

    "No good." Qin Yun realized the terrible situation he was in as he retreated without any hesitation.


    While he retreated, his sword intent domain rapidly removed the array formation that Yu Shiqi had set up. He flew out of the mountain cave and opened up a gap between him and the fiendcelestial.


    They were about three thousand feet apart and the suction force was greatly reduced. Qin Yun was now able to resist the force pulling at his flesh and blood.


    At the same time, his Golden Core Dharmic powers surged through his body as he "fattened up" at a discernible rate. His dry skin turned smooth again as he gradually regained his former appearance.


    "Hmph!"


    Inside the cave, the fiendcelestial that had crawled out partially from the floating jade bottle closed his mouth. He looked coldly at the distant Qin Yun and continued struggling to escape.


    The concerted efforts of the three Cosmic Bangles and the three flying swords failed to affect the fiendcelestial at all.


    "Senior Yi, I discovered a fiendcelestial that was trapped in a jade bottle. Now, he''s struggling to escape the jade bottle! His aura''s suppression is far stronger than mine. I have tried my best but I am unable to stop him. Now, more than half his body is out the jade bottle." Qin Yun immediately contacted Patriarch Yi through his Inspect Heavenly Token. "The fiendcelestial and I are in Tea Askance Mountain at Lu Prefecture''s Yanglai County."


    Nearly instantaneously, Patriarch Yi replied with a voice transmission, "A fiendcelestial that''s trapped in a jade bottle? Its suppressive might is much higher than yours? This is definitely no ordinary fiendcelestial. Qin Yun, you have to think of a way to delay its escape. I have already informed my master. He is traveling as fast as he can to assist you. It will probably take ten minutes."


    "Can he be any quicker? Are there no Essence Soul immortals nearby?" Qin Yun was anxious.


    Ten minutes?


    It would be too late!


    "A typical Essence Soul immortal''s speed might not be comparable to yours," replied Patriarch Yi. "Out of the strongest ones in the world, the one from Numinous Treasure Mountain is far in Kunlun Prefecture and His Majesty Human Emperor is in the western Qin Prefecture at the imperial capital. As for my master, he is in the Po Prefecture''s Divine Firmament Chapter. He is rather close to Lu Prefecture and cultivates in the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, giving him unparalleled speed! It will only take him ten minutes."


    There was nothing Qin Yun¡¯s anxiousness would accomplish anyway.


    He was a sword immortal that cultivated in the Beam Transformation Art. Especially after he condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core, his flying art was considered one of the fastest in the world. Beneath the level of immortals and fiendcelestials, he was one of the few that could match their speed. Typical immortals and fiendcelestials might not even be much faster than him. Back when Qin Yun and the Yi family exited the Scenic Yang Cave Abode, Patriarch Yi had once escorted him. Qin Yun had seen Patriarch Yi''s speed. Compared to the present Qin Yun, Patriarch Yi was about two times faster.


    peed was something that was harder to improve the higher it was.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was extremely good when it came to speed. He was several times faster than Patriarch Yi.


    To travel from Po Prefecture''s Divine Firmament Chapter to Lu Prefecture''s Yanglai County, Qin Yun would take almost an hour but Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang only required ten minutes.


    ¡­


    Ten minutes was very short already.


    But Qin Yun''s clash with the fiendcelestial did not take too much time. Ten minutes seemed like a long time in that context.


    "I have to rely on my own abilities," thought Qin Yun.


    "Qin Yun, please think of ways to hold him back. Don''t let that fiendcelestial escape," Patriarch Yi said anxiously through the voice transmission. "You have to stall for time till my master arrives. If that fiendcelestial were to escape, it would really result in endless trouble."


    Qin Yun had no other options.


    There was no time to request for help and ordinary attacks were useless. There was only one attack he had left.


    "Go." A glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    This conversation would usually take time, but since Qin Yun and Patriarch Yi were communicating through their minds, it was extremely fast.


    At that moment, Qin Yun did not hesitate to release his Intrinsic Flying Sword. His eyes turned red. He filled himself with strong emotions as he burned his life, risking it all but hoping never to abandon his loved one. Even reincarnation was unable to come between Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. The attack that was imbued with these rich life-abandoning emotions was also Qin Yun''s strongest attack¡ªSamsara!


    Although Qin Yun grasped three Paramount realms and had harmonized them, perfecting Samsara even more; as well as having the purplish-gold Golden Core''s Dharmic powers nourishing and strengthening his soul, for some baffling reason, the attack continued to drain his mental strength greatly. Two strikes were his limit under ordinary circumstances. Qin Yun did not even dare to attempt a third, for it would damage his soul''s core.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The sword flashes streaked across the sky as a gigantic black-and-white image appeared.


    Along with the black-and-white image was a blinding sword flash that struck the fiendcelestial directly.


    "Oh?" The fiendcelestial was struggling to escape and had only used one hand to withstand Qin Yun''s three flying swords and three Cosmic Bangles. But now, when Qin Yun cast his best killer move, Samsara, the fiendcelestial felt a chill run through his heart.


    "Oh no."


    The fiendcelestial could sense that there was a qualitative change in the strength of the attack, one that put it on a different level than all the previous attacks.


    He joined his hands together to brace against it.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion was heard.


    Although he had used all his strength to resist the attack, the fiendcelestial turned flustered, "Oh no!"


    Because at the instant he met the attack, the fiendcelestial knew he could not withstand it. Although he consumed his blood essence instantly, he was ultimately a little too slow. The fiendcelestial''s body sank abruptly from the blow. His waist was almost out of the jade bottle''s mouth but now, due to the flying sword''s mighty smiting, a portion of the fiendcelestial''s body sunk into the jade bottle, all the way to his chest level.


    "Darn it! Darn it!" The fiendcelestial was worried.


    "Good!" Qin Yun, who was watching the cave from outside, watched with lit up eyes. "I''ll kick him while he''s down. Kill!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword produced the second attack.


    It was another Samsara.


    Augmented by the craziness of consuming his own life, the phenomenon of the black-and-white image came pressing down with the dazzling sword flashes.


    "Get lost!" The fiendcelestial was prepared this time. He disregarded everything and consumed his blood essence, raising his aura greatly so that it sent out burning heat waves. The other three flying swords and Cosmic Bangles did not pose a threat to the fiendcelestial at all. All the fiendcelestial focused on was fending off Qin Yun''s Samsara.


    He struck out with both palms once again.


    The flying sword and the fiendcelestial struck and produced a loud boom!


    The might was in no way inferior to the previous attack.


    But its effects were clearly reduced. Although the fiendcelestial still sank, it was only for a tiny amount.


    "What?" Qin Yun was enervated at that moment. However, he was disgruntled to find that the fiendcelestial was far from being completely smashed back into the jade bottle.


    At that moment, the fiendcelestial was further enraged. From his ancient imprisonment to this day, he was already extremely weak. He was forced to consume his vital essence to escape so his injuries were even heavier. In order to prevent himself from being pushed further back into the bottle, he continued consuming his vitality.


    Qin Yun was only a mortal! His lifespan was a mere five hundred years. At his peak, he was several times stronger than Qin Yun, but now he had been forced to consume his vitality.


    "The amount of energy I have left is too little. Every amount used now damages my core. How long will it take before I can recover?" The fiendcelestial was anxious and furious. The weaker he became, the harder it would be to restore to his peak.


    "Qin Yun."


    The fiendcelestial let out a bellow. "Get lost now or I swear that I will wipe out your entire Qin family."


    He had no way to directly attack mortals but he could entice other great fiendish demons! He couldn¡¯t do much when Qin Yun was alive but once his five centuries were up, he could uproot the Qin family and wipe it from the face of the world.


    "Do you think I''m afraid of your threat?" Qin Yun endured his exhaustion and took out a Fire Cloud Calabash from the Cosmic Bag by his waist. He pulled its stopper and opened his mouth to throw a pill in.


    The legendary pill¡ªNine Revolutions Spirit Pill!


    The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill could be consumed by everyone, from lowly mortals to immortals. It could even revive mortals that had yet to have their souls dissipate. For Connate Golden Core cultivators that were trying to step into the Dao, their Golden Cores would be damaged if they failed to condense their Essence Soul. They could use the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills to treat those injuries.


    Essence Soul immortals would use it to treat injuries in their Essence Soul. The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills were best at healing one''s vital essence.


    And now, Qin Yun was, in fact, not damaged in any way. He was only mentally drained! There was no way to instantly recover his soul''s strength because ordinary pills were too slow. Qin Yun was being extravagant in his use of a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill.


    "Pew. Pew. Pew." The miraculous power of the pill naturally nourished his soul, restoring his drained mental strength rapidly. After all, he had yet to hurt his soul''s core and it was quite an overkill to use it.


    "Again!"


    Qin Yun did not hesitate to use his killer move, Samsara, again.

 234 Qin Yun vs Fiendcelestial Part 3/3

    The Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a blinding sword flash as it bolted over with the black-and-white phenomenon.


    "He can cast it again?" The fiendcelestial was astounded. He knew very well from the first two clashes that Qin Yun''s strongest attack possessed the strength of ordinary immortals and fiendcelestials! Before he was imprisoned, at his prime, he was naturally unfazed by ordinary immortals or fiendcelestials. But now, he was the weakest he had ever been. He had even consumed his vital essence, making him even weaker.


    Furthermore, he had to constantly resist the seal!


    "Peng!"


    But no matter how flustered he was, the fiendcelestial resisted with everything he had.


    He managed to withstand the strike, but at the same time his resistance towards the damaged seal turned weaker. He sank down slightly again.


    "I need to get out now. Now!" The fiendcelestial burned his blood essence as he grabbed the bottle''s mouth with both hands, trying to crawl out with all his might.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The three Cosmic Bangles surrounded him again and the fiendcelestial had no choice but to send them flying by diverting one hand! He knew very well that the Cosmic Bangles were only ordinary in strength but, if they truly bound him, they would strengthen the seal. As a result, he might very well be sealed back into the jade bottle again.


    "Whew!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flew over, producing the black-and-white phenomenon once again.


    "When will this end?" The fiendcelestial was truly flustered.


    ¡­


    The third time, fourth time, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth.


    Qin Yun constantly cast Samsara and, including the first two, he had cast a total of eight Samsaras in a blink of an eye.


    The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills were magical. They could be used to treat the Essence Soul injuries of immortals and easily recover one''s mental strength. The powerful soul that Qin Yun''s purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers nurtured ended up draining Qin Yun''s mental strength tremendously. Without the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills, he would have been drained of his mental strength after three times.


    If his mental strength was completely drained, it would naturally harm his core.


    The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills'' medicinal effects could allow him to use Samsara six times. In addition to the first two strikes, he was able to use Samsara eight consecutive times. At that moment, Qin Yun was very exhausted.


    "I have yet to suppress him successfully." Qin Yun looked at the fiendcelestial, who had only one hand outside. The fiendcelestial was still struggling and was unwilling to give up. It pinned its hopes on Qin Yun not being able to cast Samsara again.


    Qin Yun took out the Fire Cloud Calabash from the Cosmic Bag by his waist again. He pulled the stopper open and poured a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill into his mouth once again.


    The moment Qin Yun raised the Fire Cloud Calabash to his mouth, the fiendcelestial who could see the external world from inside the cave felt despair. "He''s eating another pill?"


    A Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill entered Qin Yun''s stomach and its medicinal effects nourished his soul, rapidly replenishing his mental strength.


    Years ago, Qin Yun obtained six Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills from Scenic Yang Immortal Abode. He split them equally with Hong Lingtong, leaving him with three. He had never used any of the three Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. But to deal with a fiendcelestial, he had already eaten his second pill.


    "Another time." The Intrinsic Flying Sword cast Samsara once again, bolting over with the black-and-white image.


    "This Qin Yun did not cast such a flying sword art in the beginning. It must be extremely draining on him, so much so he had to eat a pill after casting it twice! Clearly, he can only cast it twice normally. But after eating one pill¡­ he is able to cast it another six times? Now he has eaten another pill. Is he going to cast it another six times?" The fiendcelestial was drowning in despair. "I''m finished. I''ll definitely lose."


    "In order to escape, I have already burned my blood essence."


    "Now, I¡¯m out of blood essence to burn to resist his flying sword. If I burn any more, I will enter a slumber." The fiendcelestial felt weakness permeating his entire body.


    He really was at his limit.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The flying sword showed no mercy, as it was always accompanied by the black-and-white image.


    Again and again, it repeated multiple times.


    Samsara was cast three consecutive times!


    The first time, the fiendcelestial''s head was struck, leaving its neck at the bottle''s mouth.


    The second time, the head completely sank back in, leaving half an arm outside. The palm was still struggling to crawl out of the bottle''s mouth.


    The third time forced the arm completely into the bottle.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as his Dharmic powers carried the bottle stopper over to cork the jade bottle.


    The moment the jade bottle was corked, it fell to the ground. When it reached the ground, it remained motionless.


    "Alright."


    With a flash, Qin Yun entered the cave and extended his hand to grab the jade bottle.


    Upon seeing the jade bottle, Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with excitement!


    "In order to deal with you, I ate two Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills." Qin Yun looked at the jade bottle. Although he was dedicated to dealing with all fiendish demons of the world, he would not go as far as eating Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills to take down ordinary great fiendish demons. That was because one Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill was equivalent to a second-grade Dharma treasure! Eating a few of them was enough to match a first-grade Dharma treasure. For reference, some top sects would use a first-grade Dharma treasure as a cornerstone treasure that was handed down for generations.


    Qin Yun might have had many treasures but he could not afford such extravagance.


    But in order to deal with a mysterious fiendcelestial, it was worth it!


    Qin Yun knew very well¡­


    The fight between humans and fiendish demons was ultimately decided by immortals and fiendcelestials! Although he was very powerful, all he could do was influence the situation of mortals for a few hundred years. For instance, the Bai family''s patriarch was the pillar of support for humans since ancient times. He wielded the Stellar Heavenly Cycle and fought many fiendcelestials, giving peace to humans.


    Another example would be Ancestral Master Zhang. He made humans become stronger and it had a lasting effect.


    By the same reasoning, weakening the enemy''s strongest combatants was very important too.


    "I, Qin Yun, might never become immortal my entire life, stopping only at the Connate Golden Core." Qin Yun looked at the jade bottle. "But I have taken down a top fiendcelestial like you. Although I had to take advantage of your perilous situation, such an opportunity might only appear once in a lifetime. How could I not grasp it?"


    Just from the might of the fiendcelestial''s aura, one could tell that the fiendcelestial inside the jade bottle was an extremely high lifeform. It was probably comparable to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial from the Ancient Skydragon Palace! It might have been slightly weaker, but ordinary immortals and fiendcelestials were far from comparable to him.


    Such a terrifying fiendcelestial was not someone even Elder Sword could match. Once he escaped, he would have truly brought about endless tragedies.


    Hum!


    Qin Yun, who was rather excited and reveling in his accomplishments, held the Inspect Heavenly Token. He contacted Patriarch Yi and in midair, a phantom appeared in front of him. It was none other than Patriarch Yi.


    "How is it?" Patriarch Yi looked at Qin Yun.


    "He has been suppressed by me." Qin Yun held the jade bottle.


    "Great, great, great." Patriarch Yi looked with lit eyes. "Qin Yun, you have done something tremendous for us humans. Quick, get away from that place. That fiendcelestial might have secretly contacted the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' fiendcelestials might be rushing over. Quickly leave and head for the Divine Firmament Chapter! My master will meet you midway."


    "Alright." Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Sou!


    He immediately flew out of the cave.


    Yin Lihuo stood on a cloud a distance away from the cave. He was watching from afar uneasily.


    "Daoist Yin, leave quickly. The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' fiendcelestials might come here," said Qin Yun urgently with a voice transmission.


    "Has that fiendcelestial escaped?" asked Yin Lihuo immediately.


    "I managed to suppress him," replied Qin Yun through a voice transmission. "I''m leaving first."


    Sou!


    A beam streaked across the sky as it rushed towards the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    "The fiendcelestial has been suppressed?" Yin Lihuo was astonished. He could clearly sense the might from the fiendcelestial. It was truly terrifying. "Has an immortal rushed here in time? But I had already informed my sect and the nearest Immortal Fu will take fifteen minutes to get here."


    He obviously did not know that Qin Yun had directly contacted one of the top existences in the world, Patriarch Yi. Following that, Ancestral Master Zhang himself was rushing over.


    ¡­


    And in the Yi family''s ancestral grounds, Purple Cloud Palace.


    "The fiendcelestial has been suppressed by Qin Yun?" Patriarch Yi was astonished. "Qin Yun previously mentioned that the fiendcelestial is extremely terrifying. Even if it lost a great deal of its strength after being imprisoned for eons, all I hoped was that Qin Yun would hold out for a while. Yet, he directly suppressed it¡­ Did I make a mistake? Was the sealed fiendcelestial not as strong as I imagined?"


    "I''ll go take a look." Patriarch Yi immediately departed Purple Cloud Palace and rushed towards Divine Firmament Chapter.


    He was similarly curious over the fiendcelestial that was trapped in the jade bottle.


    Patriarch Yi flew over quickly.


    But after flying for a while, Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice sounded in Patriarch Yi''s ears.


    "Yi Yan, I have met up with Qin Yun."

 235 Ancestral Master Zhang and Jade Bottle

    Chapter 235: Ancestral Master Zhang and Jade Bottle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was in the form of a beam as he rushed in the direction of the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Suddenly, an obstreperous power enveloped his surroundings. Qin Yun felt like he had fallen into a mother¡¯s embrace as he could not help but come to a stop. Despite stopping suddenly while traveling at an extreme speed, he did not feel any discomfort.


    "This is?" Qin Yun looked in front of him as a purple bolt of lightning condensed into a body. Finally, it turned corporeal, revealing a middle-aged Daoist in a robe. He wore a headdress and looked rather ordinary, but he had an air of nobility. It was as though he held the secrets to the Heavenly Dao. His aura was warm but it did not emit any suppressive feelings. Qin Yun felt that¡­ the existence in front of him was absolutely the most impressive existence he had ever encountered. Even the terrifying Other Realm Fiendcelestial that died in the Ancient Skydragon Palace felt weaker.


    "This lightning." Qin Yun frequently watched his wife cultivating the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, so he could naturally tell that the lightning was the Divine Firmament Lightning. However, it was a lot more brilliant than his what his wife produced. Despite being known for its oppressiveness, the lightning appeared genial and completely lacked killing intent.


    "Are you Ancestral Master Zhang?" asked Qin Yun.


    The middle-aged Daoist smiled and nodded. "That''s me. I understand that you caught a fiendcelestial of extraordinary origins. It''s very impressive that you could seal it. Let''s go, we can have a chat in my Divine Firmament Chapter."


    "Yes." Qin Yun said politely.


    Creating and perfecting a Dharmic Dao that was recognized as the best Dharmic Dao in the world! Ancestral Master Zhang was considered the strongest Daoist in the eyes of the world''s cultivators. The Daoist movement had quite a number of immortals at present. For instance, Patriarch Bai presided over Numinous Treasure Mountain. Back when the Dao Ancestor taught the Dao at Numinous Treasure Mountain, Patriarch Bai had been there listening. Since ancient times, Patriarch Bai''s presence ensured that Numinous Treasure Mountain constantly remained prosperous. The Bai family was the oldest family clan but in the eyes of cultivators like Qin Yun, Ancestral Master Zhang was even more powerful.


    If it were just cultivating the best Dharmic Dao and reaching the highest cultivation realm, that would already be impressive. However, Ancestral Master Zhang had created the best Dharmic Dao. Anyone that knew the implications of that would be astounded.


    An existence like Ancestral Master Zhang was like he was a world unto himself. He was an anchor of all humanity.


    "Swoosh."


    The middle-aged Daoist brought Qin Yun along as they transformed into a purple bolt of lightning that headed straight for the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Qin Yun took the time to study Ancestral Master Zhang. "He looks ordinary but his aura is more aloof compared to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s oppressive aura." Just a brief encounter was enough for Qin Yun to observe that, if Ancestral Master Zhang wished to, he could crush him to death with a finger.


    ¡­


    Above Tea Askance Mountain in Lu Prefecture''s Yanglai County where Qin Yun fought the fiendcelestial.


    "Swoosh."


    The faint figure of a purple-robed youth appeared in the clouds.


    He overlooked Tea Askance Mountain and, although he was very far away, his gaze allowed him to probe the entire area that spanned hundreds of kilometers.


    "Eh? No longer here after such a short period of time? Did he escape or was he sealed by humans once again?" The purple-robed youth, He Qian, muttered to himself. "He just escaped imprisonment and should be weak. It''s possible that he escaped this area and found somewhere to secretly recover his strength. As for being sealed, there are no auras left behind by immortals. It''s unlikely that he has been sealed. After all, it''s impossible for him to be sealed by a mortal cultivator, right?" He Qian surmised.


    "Time to leave. I have important matters to handle. If this world is taken over, it would be a meritorious accomplishment." With a flick of his sleeve, he silently vanished.


    ******


    In a quiet residence of the Divine Firmament Chapter, there were pavilions with beautiful scenery. It was not tended to by any servants.


    "Have a seat," said the middle-aged Daoist with a smile as he sat down inside a pavilion.


    "Senior, I''ll take my seat then." Only then did Qin Yun sit down.


    The middle-aged Daoist smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "It''s said that you are a sword immortal that has stepped into the Dao. However, I just realized that you are still at the Paramount realm after meeting you in person today. The only difference is that you have condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core."


    "I can''t keep it from Senior Zhang," said Qin Yun immediately after feeling a little shocked.


    "Don''t worry. I did not probe your body," said the middle-aged Daoist. "A wisp of Dharmic powers effuse from your body and, although it''s very weak, I am able to recognize it as purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers. Speaking of which, I condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core back in my day. And it has already been more than two millennia since then. Time sure passes fast. I still remember the days when I stormed the world to rid it of evil after condensing a purplish-gold Golden Core."


    Qin Yun listened.


    If Ancestral Master Zhang claimed that he was the most talented Daoist since ancient times, very few people would disagree with him.


    For instance, people like Immortal Scenic Yang, known as leaders of the Daoist movement, might only number a handful, but that was still a nonzero number! Even the imperial government conferred immortals kingships like it did with Patriarch Yi, Patriarch Zhongli, and Patriarch Zhu. They were patriarchs of thousand-year-old family clans and even held huge influence in a sacred land. The imperial government had to appease them. For example, the Zhu family had great influence in the Primordial Chaos Sect.


    Such a figure could be deemed a leader of the Daoist movement.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang and the Bai family''s patriarch were of even higher standing! It would actually be an insult if the imperial government conferred them kingships.


    "Condensing a purplish-gold Golden Core implies you have a robust foundation and extremely high talent. Speaking of which, you condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core somewhat earlier than me," said the middle-aged Daoist.


    "The path for cultivation is long. Senior, I''m just a beginner compared to you," replied Qin Yun.


    "You and other sword immortals have yet to condense an Essence Soul." The middle-aged Daoist looked at Qin Yun and nodded with a sigh. "However, we owe the sword immortal lineage a lot! Numinous Treasure Mountain taught the sword immortal lineage to the world because sword immortals are best at killing. Destroying evil increases the light providence shines on us humans. It has made quite a number of good human seedlings become sword immortals. There have been quite a number of sword immortals that stepped into the Dao. There are even some who grasped extremely strong Dao. Logically speaking, such talent should make it extremely easy for them to become immortal. Unfortunately, the sword immortal lineage lacks a Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul."


    "Old Bai and I have thought of all possible ways," said the middle-aged Daoist with a sigh. "If we could obtain the sword immortal lineage''s Dharmic formulation for condensing an Essence Soul, it would be worth it even if my Divine Firmament Chapter''s Numinous treasures are depleted. Unfortunately, it just doesn''t exist."


    Qin Yun felt his heart jolt from hearing that.


    Old Bai was likely referring to Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Patriarch Bai. Ancestral Master Zhang and Patriarch Bai were both helpless?


    "Isn''t it said that the Myriad Temple is omnipotent? Do they not have any means? Other Realm Fiendcelestials try to entice us cultivators, saying that they can satisfy all of our wishes. Is that just deliberate lies?" asked Qin Yun immediately.


    "Myriad Temple?" The middle-aged Daoist shook his head. "There''s no need to think so highly of the Myriad Temple. They only know a lot of powerful figures. If Old Bai and I can''t obtain it, there''s no way for Myriad Temple to obtain it."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "As for the Other Realm Fiendcelestials?" The middle-aged Daoist scoffed and said, "How can the enticement of Other Realm Fiendcelestials be believed? The sword immortal lineage is a lineage of the Daoist movement after all. Even we don''t have the Dharmic formulation for the sword immortals to condense an Essence Soul, so how can Other Realm Fiendcelestials have it? If they did have it, we would have long gotten our hands on it. I can very confidently tell you that there are only two ways to obtain the Essence Soul Dharmic formulations for the sword immortal lineage."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "One way is for the Dao Ancestor to impart the Dao once again," said the middle-aged Daoist. "The second way is to create it yourself. Other than that, there is no other way."


    Qin Yun''s heart chilled.


    To get the Dao Ancestor to impart the Dao?


    What sort of status did the Dao Ancestor have? Back when the world was still in its nascent state, the Dao Ancestor had descended upon the world to impart the Dao. Humans and fiendish demons have been fighting ever since. The wars raged on since ancient times and numerous sects and fiendish demons died; yet, the Dao Ancestor never descended again.


    "It looks like I can only rely on creating it myself," said Qin Yun as he shook his head. "The sword immortal lineage has had many talented people in history. There were many who stepped into the Dao, but all of them eventually turned to dust. The Dao Ancestor has never descended again, so I, Qin Yun, will naturally forgo any extravagant hopes of the Dao Ancestor imparting the Dao again."


    "Cultivation methods are all created by humans," said the middle-aged Daoist with a laugh. "Qin Yun, I have my bets on you."


    Qin Yun smiled and nodded. "I have five hundred years. I''ll naturally do my best."


    "It''s good to have such a Dao heart," praised the middle-aged Daoist. Suddenly, he turned his head and saw Patriarch Yi descend on a cloud.


    "Master." Patriarch Yi was dressed ordinarily and he was very respectful.


    "Yi Yan, come. Have a seat," said the middle-aged Daoist with a smile.


    Patriarch Yi sat down, looked at Qin Yun, and marveled, "My young friend, Qin Yun. You sure were impressive this time. You managed to seal a fiendcelestial. Can I see what fiendcelestial it is?"


    Qin Yun was not an immortal but had succeeded in suppressing and sealing a fiendcelestial. It left Patriarch Yi curious about the fiendcelestial''s identity.


    "Of course. In fact, while I was bringing the fiendcelestial with me, I was afraid the fiendcelestial might charge out again suddenly." Qin Yun took out the jade bottle and placed it on a stone table. In order to suppress the fiendcelestial, he had truly gone for broke. He had even eaten two Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills.


    "Oh?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression changed slightly when he saw it. He immediately extended his hand and grabbed the jade bottle. He pulled out the stopper as a terrifying might emanated from the middle-aged Daoist. He glared at the jade bottle and a glint flashed in his eyes. His hand trembled gently as he muttered softly, "It''s him? I never expected it. I really never expected it¡­"

 236 Fiendcelestial Puming

    Chapter 236: Fiendcelestial Puming


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At Ancestral Master Zhang''s level of cultivation, very few things would excite him. He would place importance on items only if they were suitable for him even if it were a Numinous treasure. Those that were unsuitable for his personal cultivation would only become one of the treasures in his collection, left for the sect, or used to exchange for something he needed.


    "With this Other Realm Fiendcelestial, there is hope that I can master one of my divine powers." Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes were twinkling with delight.


    Making use of the Fiendcelestial?


    Ancestral Master Zhang was truly uninhibited! He was a master while the fiendcelestial would only be his slave. And Ancestral Master Zhang knew very well that Other Realm Fiendcelestials¡­only sounded scary. In fact, they were just beings of other worlds. There were even some Other Realm Fiendcelestials who were aligned with good! Only those fiendcelestials that enticed humans in a bid to seize the world were evil. It also resulted in Other Realm Fiendcelestials having such a bad reputation.


    As for Ancestral Master Zhang, he treated every fiendcelestial differently. For example, the fiendcelestial that was imprisoned in the jade bottle in front of him might have been evil but it was also a rare treasure.


    "Come out." Ancestral Master Zhang pointed with his finger, sending a wisp of lightning to permeate the jade bottle. He grabbed the fiendcelestial directly out of the bottle.


    Swoosh.


    The green-skinned fiendcelestial was pulled out by lightning that wrapped around him. He was the size of a palm and in the middle of his glabella was a purple scale. He had two thin, long, and sharp curved horns. At that moment, there was horror written all over his face. He looked up at the gargantuan Qin Yun, Patriarch Yi, and the middle-aged Daoist. He could not help but lament inwardly, "It''s over. I''ve landed in the hands of such a terrifying immortal."


    "This immortal that can control lightning is way beyond my match even if I was in my prime. I think he can even match Empyrean Lord." The fiendcelestial was panicking.


    "Enlarge yourself," instructed Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes, yes!"


    The fiendcelestial rapidly grew to a size that was approximately the same as Qin Yun and company. He stood there reverentially. "Greetings Immortals."


    Patriarch Yi looked at the fiendcelestial and sensed his aura. He could not help but be shocked as he secretly thought to himself, "What a powerful aura! He could probably match me when he''s not injured!"


    "You are Fiendcelestial Puming, am I right?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Immortal, how impressive you are to recognize me instantly." The fiendcelestial smiled sycophantically. He had none of the arrogance or domineering air from before. He even tried to converge his aura as much as he could.


    "Master, who is Fiendcelestial Puming?" Patriarch Yi asked perplexedly. Even with his status and knowledge, he was unaware of this fiendcelestial.


    Ancestral Master Zhang explained, "He''s an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that has been sealed since ancient times. Even back then he rarely made an appearance, so he is quite unknown. It''s not surprising that few know him in the present day. I learned of a jade bottle that Immortal Red Lotus possessed while chatting with Old Bai. Fiendcelestial Puming would usually live in the jade bottle but the jade bottle was eventually lost. I never expected that after so much time, he has made an appearance once again through Qin Yun."


    "Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun clicked his tongue when he heard that.


    He had really suppressed and sealed an Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    "From what I observe of his strength, he should be able to match the leader of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons at his peak." Patriarch Yi smiled and marveled while looking at Qin Yun. "I never expected that our young friend Qin Yun would be able to suppress and seal a being of such strength. Truly impressive."


    "I was only lucky," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "His strength is indeed ranked within the top ten of all the fiendcelestials among the fiendish demons," Ancestral Master Zhang praised with a nod. "However, what he is best at is not killing. If all he knew was decimation, he would have been destroyed by us humans back in ancient times. We wouldn''t have spent so much effort to deliberately imprison him in the jade bottle."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Yes, if he was truly a scourge on humans, he would have long been wiped out! Even the Other Realm Fiendcelestial with a mightier aura in the Ancient Skydragon Palace was dead. If the humans and Water race truly wanted him eradicated, he would absolutely be destroyed.


    "Qin Yun, I have a presumptuous request." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun.


    "Senior Zhang, feel free to ask me," replied Qin Yun immediately. Patriarch Yi was shocked. What sort of status did his master enjoy? He actually said the words ''presumptuous request'' to a Connate Golden Core sword immortal?


    "This fiendcelestial is very useful to me. I would like you to hand him to me. Of course, your repayment will not be shabby," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Senior Zhang, please take it immediately if you wish to have it. I wouldn''t dare to keep such a terrifying fiendcelestial in my home," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t take advantage of you," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    What status did he have?


    If he took advantage of a junior, it would affect his Dao heart! At his level, he paid greater attention to having a clear Dao heart. If he hustled on profits, he would abhor himself, much less talk about having a clear Dao heart.


    "Fiendcelestial Puming." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at the fiendcelestial.


    "Yes, I await your instruction." The fiendcelestial was polite. He might have nefarious thoughts in front of others but he did not dare show any disrespect in front of Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Are you willing to take me on as your master?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at him. "If you don''t, I can only give you a taste of the Grinding Punishment Dharma."


    When the fiendcelestial heard that, his expression changed drastically.


    Ancestral Master Zhang knew him too well. Back then, he had refused to be the slave of the ancient immortal, Immortal Red Lotus. Immortal Red Lotus did a long investigation before he found the fiendcelestial''s weakness and specially created the Grinding Punishment Dharma. In just three days, he submitted obediently.


    "Back then, I was unwilling to submit because that Immortal Red Lotus was about my equal in strength," said the fiendcelestial in a sycophantic manner. "But Master, your strength is unfathomable and you are much stronger than Immortal Red Lotus. How could I be unwilling? Greetings Master, I am your lowly slave, Puming."


    As he said that, he immediately knelt down and kowtowed.


    When Ancestral Master Zhang saw this, he nodded. "Return to the bottle and rest. I will soon restore your strength."


    "Yes, yes," the fiendcelestial immediately said with an obsequious smile. But inside he felt bitter. He glanced at Qin Yun. "It''s all because of this darn sword immortal. I nearly regained my freedom and would have able to live unbridled in the human world. Now, I have become the slave of this terrifying immortal. This immortal might live on for very, very long. Sigh, I can no longer see the day of my freedom."


    He felt aggrieved but there was no solution.


    Sou!


    The fiendcelestial transformed into a stream of light before entering the jade bottle. Only then did Ancestral Master Zhang put away the jade bottle.


    "Congratulations Master," said Patriarch Yi instantly.


    "Yi Yan, and you too, Qin Yun," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Do not tell others of this matter regarding Fiendcelestial Puming."


    Qin Yun said immediately, "We will naturally keep our mouths sealed."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    He obviously wasn''t afraid but he did not wish for trouble either.


    "This Fiendcelestial Puming might have strength at the Cloudfiend Mountain Lord''s level," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "But it is extremely useful for me. After benefiting from your work, I''ll naturally not take advantage of you. Of everything in my treasure collection, I think there are five treasures that are more suitable for you. You can choose any two."


    Patriarch Yi also smiled and looked at Qin Yun. "Since my master is offering it to you, accept it. You are a cultivator too. You should know the importance of a clear Dao heart. You have to accept the treasures."


    "I understand." Qin Yun did not say anything else.


    In fact, the fiendcelestial was a huge trouble that he was glad to be rid of.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang naturally had complete control over the fiendcelestial.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang, I wonder what treasures there are that I need to choose two from." Qin Yun looked forward to it.


    "You have to choose well from these five treasures." Ancestral Master Zhang said as he took a tiny figure the size of a palm from his sleeve.


    "This is? A Yellow-scarved Strongman?" Qin Yun recognized instantly. The tiny figure was identical to the Yellow-scarved Strongman that was protecting the Qin family. The only difference was it was much smaller.


    "Yes." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "This is the actual body of the Yellow-scarved Strongman that is currently protecting your Qin family. If you choose it, it will forever protect your Qin family."


    Qin Yun faltered.


    One of the five treasures was a Yellow-scarved Strongman? Its value was in no way inferior to the Golden Core Cauldron.


    Having said that, Ancestral Master Zhang placed the tiny figure on the table. Following that, he took out a second treasure from his sleeve. It was an ancient stone tablet with many cracks. It looked damaged and there were some drawings engraved on it. Qin Yun felt a numbing feeling when he saw it. A wisp of lightning naturally sparked in his body. Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "Just looking at it generates lightning in my body in such a natural manner. What sort of stone tablet is this?" He controlled his Dharmic powers to expel the lightning.


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at the damaged stone tablet and said with a sigh. "This stone tablet was something I obtained out of sheer chance. It contains a divine power, ''Eye of Lightning.'' It allows one to open the third eye. However, such a divine power garners the jealousy of the heavens. Every time it is learned, the stone tablet''s remnant powers are reduced. In its present damaged state, it will shatter after one more person learns from it."


    "The divine power, ''Eye of Lightning?''" Qin Yun was perplexed.

 237 Five Treasures

    Chapter 237: Five Treasures


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was not unfamiliar with divine powers. For instance, the Godfiend lineage that the imperial government cultivated in focused mainly on various divine powers. The Buddhist sacred land Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery was most famous for its six divine powers¡ªHeavenly Eye, Heavenly Ear, Divine Feet, Telepathy, Predestination, and Unvexed. It was considered a marvel by cultivators all over the world. Another example was the Primordial Chaos Sect. It was of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage but it had a divine power, Nomological Phenomenon, that was extremely famous. Although Daoists could cultivate a Golden Core, they could also have divine powers such as All-Seeing Eyes and All-Hearing Ears.


    "Why have I never heard of the Eye of Lightning?" Qin Yun was curious.


    Ancestral Master Zhang said with a chuckle. "That''s because the stone tablet can only be learned from three times. I learned once and my Divine Firmament Chapter''s Elder Mu has learned it once. There''s only one more time left! The people that have seen the Eye of Lightning in this world only amount to a handful. It''s normal that you have not heard of it." With that said, he placed the damaged stone tablet on the table and took out the third treasure from his sleeve.


    It was a flying sword! The flying sword had a blade that resembled a leaf and it was naturally very sharp.


    Just looking at the flying sword¡­ made Qin Yun feel like he was seeing a phenomenon of green leaves slicing apart the world.


    "This is Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. As he grasped a very powerful Sword Dao, he was even stronger than Elder Sword. He sought and gathered many rare materials and eventually managed to raise his Intrinsic Flying Sword to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure." Ancestral Master Zhang said with a smile. "I think that this flying sword might be of some use to you."


    "Green Leaf?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Senior Zhang, can I study it in detail?"


    "There''s no rush. You can take a look later."


    Ancestral Master Zhang placed the transcendent-grade flying sword down and took out a bronze calabash from his Cosmic Bag. He said, "This calabash Dharma treasure is known as the Otherworld Sword Calabash. It is especially meant for sword immortals. Sword Qi can be injected into it and the Sword Qi will naturally fuse with the runic array formations inside the Otherworld Sword Calabash. Once the array formation is completely energized, it will be complete and its strength will reach an extremum! A single thought can permeate the calabash and release millions of beams of Sword Qi to kill enemies. Its might far exceeds that of any ordinary killer moves."


    "However, its flaw is that you will need to replenish the Sword Qi inside the Otherworld Sword Calabash after each use. Even with your rich and immense Dharmic powers, it will probably take you a year," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "A year?" Qin Yun frowned slightly.


    Ancestral Master Zhang smiled and placed the bronze calabash on the table. Finally, he took out the final treasure from his sleeve. It was a Buddha figurine that was sitting cross-legged made of wood. It appeared to be carved by a beginner artisan, for it was crudely made. Ancestral Master Zhang said, "This is the Buddhist Amita''s wooden figurine. There''s something amazing about it."


    Qin Yun was astonished. "Amita?"


    Buddhist monks would often say the word, ''Amitabha.'' Qin Yun also knew what Amita''s standing in Buddhism was. It was said that this world''s Daoists were taught the Dao by the Dao Ancestor back on Numinous Treasure Mountain! As for the Buddhists¡­they were supposedly taught by the Buddha Amita through a dream, allowing Buddhism to spread in this world. Buddhists kept low profiles and stood aloof from the world but they had unfathomable strength.


    "Five treasures."


    Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "The first is a Yellow-scarved Strongman. There''s no need to elaborate on that. The second is the Eye of Lightning. Once it''s cultivated to the limit, the Eye of Lightning can even stand in place against the lightning tribulations sent from the heavens. The third is Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s flying sword. There are only two Intrinsic Flying Sword in the world that have been cultivated to the level of transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. This is one of them. The fourth is the Otherworld Sword Calabash. The stronger your Sword Qi is, the stronger the Otherworld Sword Calabash is. The fifth is the Amita wooden figurine. This figurine can guide you to dream for a hundred years."


    "Dream for a hundred years?" Qin Yun was perplexed.


    "Your usual dreams might appear very long, but you will realize that you only slept a little after awakening. Have you had such a feeling?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Yes."


    "This wooden sculpture of Amita can guide you into a dream. The dream will be extremely realistic. In the dream, you will experience a hundred years. Of course, a day in the outside world is a year in the dream world. To dream for a hundred years¡­would only mean a hundred days passing in the outside world," said Amitabha Zhang. "If it''s only uniqueness was time, it would not be comparable to the four items here. But the most important thing about it, is that it can guide your cultivation in the dream. This hundred years of cultivation in the dream would be more helpful than cultivating a hundred years in the outside world."


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "Sword immortals only have five hundred years. If you take this Amita figurine, the chances of you creating a Dharmic formulation that can condense an Essence Soul will be higher."


    Qin Yun was immediately moved.


    Even if it could not guide his cultivation, spending a hundred years cultivating in his dream was equivalent to extending his lifespan to six hundred years! Cultivating an additional five hundred years led to more possibilities, not to mention the cultivation guidance it provided.


    "To immortals and fiendcelestials with long lifespans, its value is limited. However, the fact that it it provides cultivation guidance gives it the worth of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "For a sword immortal like yourself, I think this is the most suitable item out of the five for you. Choose two wisely."


    Qin Yun looked at the five treasures and was tempted.


    Patriarch Yi chuckled as he watched. "My young friend, Qin Yun, it looks like you have a tough choice on your hands."


    "You can only choose two." Ancestral Master Zhang sat there and said leisurely.


    Qin Yun sighed emotively in secret.


    As he looked at the palm-sized Yellow-scarved Strongman, he immediately eliminated it. "If I were to die in the future, the Qin family members will not be able to hide in Grand Dominance City forever. Once they leave, they would lose the protection of the Yellow-scarved Strongman. Powerful cultivators or fiendish demons can use Hypnotizing Spells or other means to control others. They could easily control my Qin family members to lure them outside. It might end up with the Yellow-scarved Strongman being given for nothing."


    "Green Leaf''s flying sword." Qin Yun picked up the flying sword. It was cold like a fairy from the moon palace. A chill transmitted from the flying sword, making Qin Yun''s hand tremble.


    "According to the available heritage, Intrinsic Flying Swords can typically only reach the first-grade. However, there have been heaven-defying sword immortals that have grasped extremely powerful Sword Dao. Supplemented by some treasures, they were able to forcefully raise their Intrinsic Flying Sword to the transcendent grade." Qin Yun sighed silently. "Since ancient times, there have only been two that have been capable of doing so. Sword Immortal Green Leaf was one of them. My Intrinsic Flying Sword is currently at the second-grade but it can produce strength that matches that of a transcendent-grade flying sword! Therefore, an additional Green Leaf Flying Sword is superfluous. When my Intrinsic Flying Sword reaches the first-grade¡­it''s strength will match a Numinous treasure! This Green Leaf Flying Sword would be worth even less."


    Although it spoke volumes, Qin Yun decided to eliminate it.


    "The Yellow-scarved Strongman and the Green Leaf Flying Sword can be eliminated. There are three items left¡­" Qin Yun looked at the other three items.


    The Eye of Lightning divine power, the Otherworld Sword Calabash, and the Amita wooden sculpture.


    "The wooden sculpture that allows me to dream a hundred years. I have to choose it," thought Qin Yun. "Taking it is equivalent to having an additional hundred years of cultivation. It can even guide my cultivation."


    "Otherworld Sword Calabash? This is equivalent to having an additional powerful killer move."


    Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang and asked, "Senior Zhang, I have never heard of this Eye of Lightning divine power. Can you explain it in more detail?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at the damaged stone tablet, thought for a moment before saying, "I wouldn''t dare claim that this divine power is the best in the world but it''s definitely in the top three! It is also the most powerful divine power out of the myriad divine powers I cultivate in. Furthermore, when facing the tribulations, one of the heavenly punishments is lightning. One can use the Eye of Lightning to greatly lessen the smite. Therefore, just having the chance to learn this divine power makes its value comparable to that of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    In fact, when he heard that cultivating the Eye of Lightning to the limit was able to stand in place of the lightning tribulations, he realized how terrifying the divine power was. Even Ancestral Master Zhang, a person acknowledged as the strongest Daoist, said that it was the most powerful divine power he cultivated in.


    "What are the requirements of cultivating it?" asked Qin Yun.


    "There is a very high requirement for one''s Dharmic powers," said Ancestral Master Zhang, "The first barrier to entry is usually being an Essence Soul immortal. As you have condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core, making your Dharmic powers match that of an immortal, you are able to meet the barrier of entry. However, even the beginning stages¡­are enough to aid you greatly. Being able to identify human from a demon, or the light that shines upon a person by providence, or treasure auras are in no way inferior to the Buddhist''s Heavenly Eye. And in combat, the might of the Eye of Lightning is even higher than the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. The only problem is that the Eye of Lightning is not easily cultivated."


    "The requirements are that high?" Qin Yun frowned.


    He was planning on choosing something for his wife.


    As for himself? Qin Yun trusted his flying sword more!


    Ancestral Master Zhang said with a chuckle, "Why? Are you choosing something for your wife? That lass Yi Xiao wants to step into the Dao and become an immortal? The chances are less than one in a thousand."


    Qin Yun could not help but remark, "My wife is still young and has grasped Lightning Intent."


    "That is an intent obtained when heavenly lightning surged through her body. Has she reached the intent domain realm yet? If not, the chances are even lower," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "One has to step into the Dao to become immortal! Among the human mortals, including you, there are only ten at the Paramount realm! Do you think that your wife can become one of the ten? After the Paramount realm, there''s the harder task of entering the Dao! Only by stepping into the Dao would one have a chance of becoming immortal."


    "Since ancient times, how many people have become immortal? Our Daoist school of thought only has immortals cultivating secretly in the three sacred lands. Most top cultivations sects do not have immortals," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    There were nineteen top sects in the world and there were only a handful of immortals.


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Patriarch Yi and said, "By the way, Yi Yan. Do not spread the news that Qin Yun has condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core."


    "I understand." Patriarch Yi''s eyes lit up as he looked at Qin Yun. "Nice one kid. You have actually condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core. You hid it well."


    Qin Yun smiled.


    "Have you made your choice?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "I''ll choose these two." As he said, he pointed to the Amita wooden sculpture, as well as the damaged stone tablet.


    The capability to dream a hundred years and the Eye of Lightning. Those were the two.

 238 That Arm Final Chapter of Volume

    Qin Yun naturally needed to choose the wooden sculpture that allowed him to dream a hundred years. As for the Eye of Lightning, Qin Yun temporarily put it aside for his wife. After all, such a divine power was truly rare, allowing one to identify human from a demon, or the light shined upon a person by providence or treasure auras. It was similar in effect to the Heavenly Eye divine power. However, it was not necessary for Qin Yun. The weakening of the lightning tribulations from the heavenly punishments was only useful if he managed to defy the heavens and create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. If not, the tribulation would not happen to him at all. As for using it to supplement him in battle? It was certainly useful but he still trusted his flying sword the most.


    He might as well take it regardless. After all, it was a divine power that ranked highly in the world.


    "Clever." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and praised him. "This divine power might be difficult to grasp but once you do so, it will aid you greatly. The lightning released can match ordinary immortals and fiendcelestials in strength. If you comprehend the way of the Lightning, the power you would release would be even stronger."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was a little moved but with the wooden sculpture that allowed him to dream a hundred years, Qin Yun felt that his strength could still improve. He still needed to cast his killer move, Samsara, to match the power of an immortal or fiendcelestial. In the future, when his strength increased tremendously, he would likely be able to do so easily. When that time came, the mastery of the Eye of Lightning would only give him limited aid.


    After all, he did not know anything about the way of the Lightning!


    "Senior Zhang, how do I use this wooden sculpture?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "Just drip your blood in," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun immediately extended his hand and grabbed the Amita wooden sculpture and the damaged stone tablet. He turned to look at the bronze calabash. "Senior Zhang, can this Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash be sold to me?"


    "Sold?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang and Patriarch Yi were astonished.


    "I''m not able to use it so I can obviously sell it. But what can you offer in exchange?" Ancestral Master Zhang was puzzled as he asked. "Although sword immortals halt at the Connate Golden Core, making the price of the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash drop somewhat, it is still in no way inferior to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    "From the looks of it, our young friend Qin Yun has quite a lot of treasures," quipped Patriarch Yi in a friendly manner.


    Qin Yun removed a Cosmic Bag that he kept under his shirt.


    "You even hid a Cosmic Bag there," joked Patriarch Yi.


    "Please take a look."


    Qin Yun waved his hand, sending the Cosmic Bag flying up. The mouth of the bag rapidly expanded, as a gigantic red-scaled arm flew out, landing in the yard. It was the Other Realm Fiendcelestial arm that Qin Yun had obtained from the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang and Patriarch Yi''s eyes lit up. They immediately walked out and carefully studied it.


    When they saw the gigantic claws that were each as sharp as a sickle, they could sense an extreme sharpness despite all the time that had passed. Ancestral Master Zhang could not help but wave his hand to dispel the seals Qin Yun had cast on it. Instantly, the gigantic red-scaled arm produced black fiendish gases. Fiendmonsters began to appear one after another and in a blink of an eye, there were hundreds of them. All of them were snarling angrily as they charged at Ancestral Master Zhang and company.


    Ancestral Master Zhang casually flipped his hand, and instantly, a new seal enveloped the arm, making the fiendish gases dissipate as quickly as they appeared.


    "It''s the Skyfiend''s arm." Ancestral Master Zhang''s pupils constricted in astonishment. Patriarch Yi looked at Ancestral Master Zhang and sent a voice transmission. "Master, if I''m not wrong, this arm is¡­"


    "It''s the Skyfiend''s." Ancestral Master Zhang replied with a voice transmission and nodded.


    "Senior Zhang, is this arm enough to exchange for the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash?" asked Qin Yun.


    He knew very well that even a finger bone of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial would make fiendish demons go nuts! This was an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that had stormed into the Ancient Skydragon Palace, fought the Water race guarding it, and wiped them out. The ancient Skydragon eventually killed it at the cost of his own life and died sealing off the Ancient Skydragon Palace. It was evident that the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s strength was not that much inferior to the ancient Skydragon''s.


    When it came to such a fiendcelestial, even a bone or a scale would be worth a lot.


    "Where did you obtain this?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "Was it from the West Sea''s Ancient Skydragon Palace?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "I was lucky to obtain it. It took me a great deal of effort to deal with those fiendmonsters before I could grab this fiendcelestial arm."


    "It''s truly that fiendcelestial. Back then, he managed to obliterate the Ancient Skydragon Palace with his own strength." Ancestral Master Zhang felt wistful. "Unfortunately, all you obtained was an arm. If you obtained the entire corpse, it would be entirely different."


    "The fiendmonsters generated by an arm are already this powerful. If it were the entire corpse, I could not even fend against the most basic fiendmonsters it generates," remarked Qin Yun.


    "That''s true." Patriarch Yi nodded. He looked at the gigantic arm and said, "Now that I''m looking at this arm, I''m even more impressed by the ancient Skydragon. Back then, it sacrificed himself to kill this Other Realm Fiendcelestial, preventing him from continue his rampage in this world."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    He did not think anything of the fiendcelestial that had been imprisoned in the jade bottle.


    However, the original owner of this arm¡­was not someone Ancestral Master Zhang would dare to slight.


    "Senior Zhang, can this arm be used to exchange for the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "There isn''t a lot of flesh and blood on this arm but the claws are easily refinable. Every claw is easily a first-grade Dharma treasure. They can even be used to construct a Dharma treasure set." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "It is indeed an item of equivalent exchange. Take it. The Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash is yours."


    Qin Yun revealed a look of glee.


    "By the way, if you step into the Dao and experience a great increase in strength, you can still explore the Ancient Skydragon Palace," said Ancestral Master Zhang in anticipation. "That ancient Skydragon was afraid that people from the future would blaspheme his corpse, so he set a restriction that even immortals and fiendcelestials are unable to enter. As for Connate Golden Core realms¡­even those that have stepped into the Dao are limited in strength. Perhaps,it will be hard to enter the inner core of the Ancient Skydragon Palace, but the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse is something you have a chance of obtaining."


    "I''ll give it another try when my strength increases greatly," said Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun picked up the bronze calabash and could control it quickly once his purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers were infused into it. However, it was clear that it was tough for him to control it.


    There was a world of chaos inside the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash.


    "Its profundity is unparalleled." Qin Yun sensed it, and sensed that there were countless runes flowing within the chaotic world within. It was filled with amazing wonders.


    "Senior Zhang, the stronger the Sword Qi I inject, the stronger the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s strength would be," pressed Qin Yun. "Can it still withstand my Sword Qi after I step into the Dao?"


    "Don''t worry," Ancestral Master Zhang said confidently.


    Qin Yun nodded and felt delighted.


    It was likely that he would be stuck at the Connate Golden Core realm for a very, very long time. After he stepped into the Dao, it would be very difficult to improve his strength. When the time came, the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash would be his strongest killer move. The stronger he became, the more powerful the killer move would be. Qin Yun naturally wanted to buy it.


    "Senior Zhang, Senior Yi, if there''s nothing else, I shall bid the both of you farewell." Qin Yun cupped his hands and said.


    "You may leave." Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as he watched Qin Yun depart in the form of a beam.


    "Yi Yan, this Qin Yun really is my lucky star." Ancestral Master Zhang held the jade bottle in his hand. "Not only did he deliver the fiendcelestial Puming to me, he even brought the Skyfiend''s arm. The arm can be ignored but these claws are truly special! They are easily refined and can become a set of transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. However, the material is extraordinary. I will need to find other treasures to refine them with. If I''m lucky, I might even get a set of Numinous treasures. If only Qin Yun had managed to bring the other arm''s claws over, the quantity would be double and, complemented with other treasures, the chances of refining a Numinous treasure would greatly increase."


    A Numinous treasure in the form of a set.


    For example, six of Qin Yun''s Cosmic Bangles formed a set which would result in a qualitative change in strength.


    Another example would be the Bai family''s Stellar Heavenly Cycle. It was a set made out of 360 stars!


    "The Amita wooden sculpture that Qin Yun obtained will probably ensure that he steps into the Dao soon by allowing him to dream a hundred years," said Patriarch Yi with a smile. "When the time comes, he might be able to bring the Skyfiend''s corpse over."


    "It will depend on how strong his Sword Dao is when he steps into the Dao," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Sou!


    A beam descended from the sky and landed in a garden. Yi Xiao was sitting cross-legged on a grass patch in the garden. There was a flowery fragrance permeating the garden.


    When Qin Yun landed, Yi Xiao opened her eyes, having sensed him.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao stood up immediately and said with a smile. "You sent Shuyan to Sword Tower and your trip took days."


    "I went to the Lu Prefecture on the way. The Lu Prefecture''s Yanglai County''s Ximen family had up to a hundred clansmen dying every day. It was said to be the work of a mysterious great fiendish demon, so I rushed there to investigate the matter," said Qin Yun.


    "Great fiendish demon?" Yi Xiao was surprised.


    "I later discovered that it wasn''t a great fiendish demon. Instead, it was a human. It was the Connate Golden Core cultivator Yu Shiqi from the Black Turtle Palace. The matter secretly involved an Other Realm Fiendcelestial," said Qin Yun.


    "Other Realm Fiendcelestial? What happened?" Yi Xiao was appalled.


    Qin Yun began recounting the entire story and explained what happened with Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Yi Xiao gradually calmed down.


    "Brother Yun, the three treasures you chose are excellent." Yi Xiao nodded in agreement. "However, after hearing the entire story, I think Yu Shiqi deserved his end, but he is also very pitiable."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I have to thank him too. If he had not mentioned the bottle stopper, I''d probably have gone on without knowing that the jade bottle hid a fiendcelestial. He probably guessed that he would die the moment he mentioned the jade bottle''s secret. He was truly, fully prepared to die back then."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Let''s not talk about that. Xiaoxiao, I plan to enter seclusion to cultivate in a few days time," said Qin Yun.


    "Dreaming a hundred years?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yea, I''ll enter seclusion for a hundred days and dream a hundred years." Qin Yun nodded.


    (End of Volume)

 239 Coming of Age Ceremony

    Chapter 239: Coming of Age Ceremony


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Yi Xiao prepared a variety of dishes for Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, I''m somewhat worried." Yi Xiao held a cup of alcohol.


    "What are you worried about?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "You previously said that you would dream a hundred years and that the dream would feel realistic, allowing you to cultivate," whispered Yi Xiao. "But Brother Yun, wouldn''t that make you live an additional hundred years? A hundred years is a very long time! We are only in our thirties. When you wake up from your dream, what if you find me unfamiliar, or even abandon me¡­"


    Qin Yun walked to his wife''s side and gently embraced her. He whispered with a smile, "Don''t worry. Your husband is the world''s best sword immortal. There''s chance of him even stepping into the Dao. How can a mere hundred-year cultivation in a dream make my heart waver?"


    "If you end up treating me heartlessly," said Yi Xiao as she looked at him. "Hmph, I''ll smite you with Divine Firmament lightning before returning to the Divine Firmament Chapter. You would not be able to see me even if you wanted to."


    "Smite me with Divine Firmament lightning? My wife, that''s ruthless. Are you going to murder your husband?" Qin Yun stared at her.


    "Let''s see how your dream of a hundred years goes and how you treat me after you come out of seclusion."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll immediately pull you into the room once I''m awake," said Qin Yun.


    "Pull me into the room? What for?" Yi Xiao was perplexed.


    "Of course we¡¯ll need to cultivate in Yin-Yang complementation arts." Qin Yun sighed. "Lone Yin does not lead to birth and solitary Yang does not allow growth. The worldly Yin-Yang is the orthodox path."


    "What are you talking about." Yi Xiao blushed slightly.


    "We have already been married for so long. And the dream is realistic. I''ll have to hold it in for a hundred years," said Qin Yun immediately. "Do you think it''ll be easy on me?"


    Yi Xiao laughed with her mouth covered.


    ¡­


    That night.


    Yi Xiao sent Qin Yun to the private chamber and sealed it. Many array formations were activated and the Yellow-scarved Strongman was given special orders to heavily secure the chamber! No one was to be allowed in.


    In the chamber.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged and took out the Amita wooden sculpture. The sculpture was crudely made but it had a baffling charm to it. Qin Yun placed the sculpture in midair in front of him.


    "Dream for a hundred years? And it can even guide my cultivation?" Qin Yun pondered inwardly. "I wonder what dreaming a hundred years will be like. Ancestral Master Zhang was quite vague."


    "It''s time."


    Qin Yun permeated the Amita sculpture with his consciousness and in an instant¡ª


    "Boom¡ª"


    Qin Yun felt his soul resonate abruptly. As the resonance spread throughout his body, Qin Yun thought he saw the Amita sculpture ''smiling.''


    "What? The Buddha sculpture can smile?" Following that, Qin Yun''s mind went blank from the resonance. He knew nothing.


    In an infinite distance away, there was a Buddha with infinite light emitting from his body. His eyes were filled with unfathomable wisdom as he turned to look in Qin Yun''s direction. He smiled.


    "Go."


    The infinitely radiant Buddha smiled as he gently pointed.


    Immediately, Qin Yun''s soul tore through space and time at a fascinating speed and headed for an endless and distant world. Following that, he entered the body of a sleeping youth.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun only felt that his mind was abuzz, as though it was about to split apart. Even his memories were fuzzy.


    For a moment, he would remember himself as Qin Yun.


    And another moment, he seemed to be a youth called Wing.


    "I must be dreaming." Qin Yun made a judgment in his dazed state. "Right, right. I''m dreaming. I remember the Amita wooden sculpture that allows me to dream a hundred years. Is this Wing¡­my identity in the dream? However, the memories feel real and they are very chaotic too."


    Memories belonging to Wing constantly surged into his mind.


    "Wing, Wing! Quick, wake up! Wake up!" A voice entered his ears.


    "Let Wing sleep a little longer. He might feel better if he sleeps a little more."


    "Wing won''t die, right?"


    "Someone from the Highwarrior family''s bloodline will not die that easily."


    There were young voices around him.


    Following that, the voices vanished.


    What seemed like a long time later.


    Qin Yun gradually awakened. He slowly opened his eyes and found himself lying in a cave. There was wild grass underneath him and there were two youths, one male and one female, sleeping soundly beside him.


    "I''m injured?" Qin Yun looked at his chest. There was a throbbing pain coming from it and it had been wrapped simply with rags. Qin Yun carefully pulled the rags away and saw the wound beneath it. The wound looked gruesome but it was recovering at a discernible pace. "It''s recovering so quickly, but wouldn''t that mean that the original injury was horrible?"


    "This body is stronger than my Connate Golden Core sword immortal body." Qin Yun murmured to himself. "It''s only fourteen years old and the Dharmic formulation he cultivates in is similar to my homeworld''s Godfiend lineage of the imperial government. However, it''s much cruder!"


    The Godfiend lineage Dharmic formulation might have been exclusive to the imperial government, but what status did Qin Yun enjoy? He had killed many great fiendish demons and had amassed some of the lower grade Dharmic formulations of the Godfiend lineage.


    Comparing it to those formulations, he realized that the Dharmic formulation that Wing cultivated in was very crude.


    "According to the memories, the Highwarrior family clan is the descendant of a Connate Godfiend." Qin Yun exclaimed in surprise. "With the Connate Godfiend''s bloodline, one can still master the crude Dharmic formulation, Highwarrior Three Volumes. The Dharmic formulation would be completely useless if ordinary people were to cultivate it."


    "Although it''s crude, it leads straight to the Godfiend realm."


    "I¡¯ve just started this dream and I''ve already discovered a cultivation Dharmic formulation. I can''t find any mistakes in it." Qin Yun found it unbelievable. He was very knowledgeable and had a critical eye. He could only say that the Dharmic formulation was crude but he could not point out any mistakes in it. "Dreaming for a hundred years, with the dream similar to reality. I was secretly doubtful when I heard it from Ancestral Master Zhang. After all, how can a dream compare with reality? But now, with Wing''s memories so vivid and detailed, the surrounding grass, stones, and even this body''s flesh and bones, my soul, as well as the Dharmic formulation, there is no way for me to tell illusion from the truth."


    At this realm, he felt that it was real no matter how he dissected it!


    "If it''s just a dream, it''s truly impressive for it to create a world that I cannot detect any flaws with," marveled Qin Yun inwardly.


    "Wing, you are awake," shouted a youth who walked in from outside. He was excited seeing Qin Yun awake.


    Immediately, the sleeping boy and girl woke up. Another youth ran in from outside the cave.


    "Haha, Wing. Wonderful, you are finally awake. You gave us a fright. The fiendish demon had torn apart your chest with a swipe of its claw. Thankfully, your heart wasn''t damaged or you would have died there and then," shouted a fat youth. With that said, he came forward and tore away the rags. He took a look and nodded. "Almost there. You''ll probably recover completely tomorrow morning. You will definitely be able to successfully kill a fiendish demon having survived such a calamity."


    "Wing has the Highwarrior family''s bloodline. He obviously won''t die," said the girl beside him.


    "That''s good. Now, Wing is fine and our chances of hunting a fiendish demon are a lot higher."


    "Wing is the strongest among us. Without Wing, it will be difficult for us to fulfill the Coming of Age Ceremony''s requirements."


    Qin Yun smiled as he looked at the four youths in front of him.


    According to Wing''s memories, the five of them were members of large family clans. They were all fourteen. They had entered the desolate plains to slay fiendish demons. All of them needed to kill one fiendish demon in order to fulfill the Coming of Age Ceremony''s requirements. If they did not succeed, they were never to return. After completing the ceremony, their standings would change. They would be truly recognized by the family clan and be given real names, with the right to use the family''s surname.


    For example, Wing was only a nickname.


    Hum!


    Qin Yun suddenly frowned as a bloodlust gradually rose from his heart and filled his entire body. It even influenced his mind and soul.


    This aura made Qin Yun feel an intense need to kill. Furthermore, this aura also faintly informed him: Fifty years from now, this dream would shatter.


    "Fifty years?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "The dream will shatter after fifty years?" Qin Yun stood up. Although his chest remained in pain, he could still walk to the cave''s entrance.


    "Wing, you are injured. There''s no need for you to do guard duty," said the fat youth immediately.


    "Dawn, I''m only taking a look." Qin Yun stood at the cave''s entrance and looked outside.


    The moon was hanging massively in the sky.


    And the desolate plains outside were filled with wild grass as far as the eyes could see.


    "It''s so realistic." Qin Yun took in everything.

 240 Three Firmaments of the Mortal Realm

    Chapter 240: Three Firmaments of the Mortal Realm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s soul was very strong, just as it was before he entered the dream. He could still release his psyche and carefully observe every spot in his surroundings. He could even use the Heaven and Earth powers.


    "The Heaven and Earth powers are different from my homeworld. They¡¯re rawer and richer." Qin Yun sensed his surroundings. "In terms of richness, they¡¯re a hundred times more than my homeworlds."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned slightly. His pupils turned slightly red before he forcefully repressed the sensation, restoring his eyes to normal.


    The bloodlust in his body was influencing his soul and his killing intent would gradually become stronger with time.


    "Why does this body have such intense killing intent? According to Wing''s memories, Wing never had such strong killing intent previously. Could it be that after I entered this body through my dream, it began to have such intense killing intent?" Qin Yun pondered over it. "With time, the killing intent will grow stronger. Even my Dao heart will eventually fail to repress it."


    "But there''s no rush."


    Qin Yun carefully observed the outside world. "I can''t detect anything unreal about the vegetation, the mud, and water, or even the essence of the moon. This hundred year dream is truly amazing."


    However, Qin Yun did not know that with the Buddha, Amita''s aid, he had actually been sent to another world.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged after returning to the cave.


    "Wing, you should sleep since you are injured," said the fat youth.


    "Wing is cultivating. He''s nothing like you, only knowing how to eat all day," said the girl beside them.


    Qin Yun did not comment. He sat cross-legged with his eyes closed as the Dharmic formulation, Highwarrior Three Volumes, surfaced in his mind from Wing''s memories.


    "According to the memories of this boy named Wing, humans in this world have the Godfiend and magus lineage," thought Qin Yun. "More than ten thousand years ago, the world began to produce sentient beings. Connate Godfiends were born with immense strength and their descendants could become powerful through cultivation and end up possessing the strength of Godfiends. As humans and Godfiends lived together, many Connate Godfiends married humans, leaving a long line of descendants. These Connate Godfiends would protect humans. As for magi, they are much weaker than Godfiends in terms of overall strength."


    "Why does it feel like this is my homeworld''s ancient world?" muttered Qin Yun secretly.


    His homeworld had a legend.


    In the earliest era, the world was in chaos. It was then that Connate Godfiends, humans, and demons were born slowly.


    Humans were weak and puny. They were protected by the Connate Godfiends until, slowly, humans began to develop the magus cultivation system. The magus system was complemented by the world''s mysterious and poisonous items, and gradually Gu arts, hex arts, and array formations were created. Eventually, there were things such as battle magi.


    The Godfiend lineage was the primary power while the magus lineage was only secondary.


    ¡­


    As time passed, the Godfiend bloodline thinned and the Godfiend lineage gradually weakened. In time, the magus lineage also gradually became stronger.


    Later on, the Dao Ancestor imparted the Dao on Numinous Treasure Mountain.


    And after the ancient era ended, the Daoist and magus schools of thought thrived. The Godfiend lineage weakened and much later, Amita taught through a dream, allowing his homeworld to have Buddhism.


    As the Heaven and Earth powers gradually thinned, the number of rare and mystic items in the world decreased. It also led to the decline of the magi. Many generations later, the Godfiend lineage produced Human Emperor, the powerful existence that caused the Godfiend lineage to thrive once again in Qin Yun''s homeworld. As such, the Godfiend lineage was ranked on par with the Dao and Buddhist cultivation systems among humans. As for the magus lineage, only Magistress Mountain managed to barely hold on. However, it was far from comparable to the other three lineages.


    "This world I have entered through my dream resembles the period when Godfiends and humans lived together. The magi also gradually rose up but this period''s magi¡­still do not have battle magi," thought Qin Yun. "And this youth, Wing, is a descendant of a Connate Godfiend! Furthermore, he has already cultivated to the second Firmament of the Mortal realm."


    "His family''s Dharmic formulation, the Highwarrior Three Volumes, are separated into cultivation, divine powers, and combat arts. The cultivation volume has a total of six Firmaments."


    "The first three Firmaments belong to the Mortal realm, and the later three Firmaments belong to the Godfiend realm."


    "The first Firmament is equivalent to the Connate False Core."


    "The second Firmament is equivalent to the Connate True Core."


    "The third Firmament is equivalent to the Connate Golden Core."


    "The Godfiend''s first Firmament is equivalent to the immortals and fiendcelestials of my homeworld."


    "The Godfiend''s second Firmament¡­ is naturally an improvement."


    "The Godfiend realm''s three Firmaments are recorded in books. The Connate Godfiend Highwarrior was born at the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm," thought Qin Yun. "Since I''m going to cultivate in this dream world for fifty years, I should treat everything here as real if I want to step into the Dao."


    He obviously had no idea that he was in another world that was extremely far from his homeworld.


    The Highwarrior Three Volumes¡­


    "The combat volume has records of all sorts of weapons and their respective killing arts. But it''s too ordinary," thought Qin Yun. "That''s right. In ancient times, it took time for my homeworld''s various combat techniques to take form. They only became a lot more intricate and amazing after being developed for many years."


    This world''s Godfiend descendants could cultivate very easily. They could reach the second Firmament of the Mortal realm at age fourteen. And that was only considered ordinary! This period''s education was poor and they put more importance on power and speed! Fast and powerful attacks were valued. As for intricate moves? Typical Godfiend descendants were incapable of that.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun placed the divine power and combat volumes aside temporarily and concentrated on cultivation.


    From his heart, immense Godfiend powers surged out. According to the memorized Dharmic formulations he had, the powers coursed through his body and nourished it healing his wounds quickly.


    "The third Firmament of the Mortal realm is slightly complicated." Qin Yun sped up the healing of his wounds as he pondered over the cultivation volume of the Highwarrior Three Volumes. There were six Firmaments but every Firmament was only described by a single line of text. In addition to the mystical runic patterns, each pattern increased in complexity from the first to the sixth. Once one figured it out successfully, it would be imprinted in their hearts, allowing them to step into a new level.


    "Cultivation by Godfiend descendants is just so direct and easy."


    "The third Mortal Firmament''s runic pattern¡­ is somewhat difficult. It will probably take an hour."


    Qin Yun''s realm was extremely high after all.


    In fact, he had fully figured out the runic pattern in less than an hour. It was much easier than gaining insights into the Heavenly Dao. Unfortunately, only descendants of the Connate Godfiend bloodline could cultivate in such a manner.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    The Godfiend powers coursed over his heart and formed a complicated runic pattern, encompassing the second Firmament runic pattern from before.


    Hum! The instant the runic pattern completed, the power hidden deep within his heart was stirred.


    His heart gradually changed as even the lifeforce within it shone with a golden glimmer of light.


    Wherever the blood that suffused golden light coursed through his body, that part of the body, be it the blood, flesh, tendons, or bones, would transform.


    ¡­


    "What''s happening?" The two youths that were sleeping, as well as the two youths that were standing guard outside, were alerted of what was happening¡ªa violent surge of the Heaven and Earth powers was rushing into the sitting Qin Yun constantly.


    "Wing, what is it?"


    They saw a golden luster suffuse Qin Yun''s skin and noticed that his body''s aura was becoming stronger.


    "Wing has broken through to the third Firmament." The four youths were extremely astonished.


    Just as in Qin Yun''s homeworld, going from the Connate True Core to the Connate Golden Core was a qualitative transformation.


    For these descendants of the Godfiend, every Firmament was a huge leap.


    "That''s bad. This stir will attract fiendish demons!" Immediately, a youth ran to the entrance of the cave to keep watch.


    "Clarity, stay here and watch Wing."


    The three youths stood in the cave''s entrance, looking in different directions.


    The stirring of the Heaven and Earth powers could easily be sensed by many¡ªdescendants of the Connate Godfiend or powerful great fiendish demons. All of them could easily attain Heaven Man Unity, so they could detect the gathering of the Heaven and Earth powers from a good distance away.


    "No good, there are fiendish demons coming, at least five of them." The three youths were somewhat flustered.


    "Why are there so many fiendish demons?"


    Inside the cave.


    The girl was also very anxious when she suddenly saw Qin Yun open his eyes.


    "Wing, have you already succeeded in breaking through?" asked the girl in pleasant surprise.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. "By the way, lend me your sword."


    "You want to borrow my sword?" The girl was puzzled but she still handed over one of the two swords hanging by her waist to Qin Yun. "Wing, don''t you usually use a hammer?"


    "I gained some insights while bordering on life and death, especially more into sword arts." Qin Yun was somewhat helpless. Hammers? Seriously?


    Thankfully, fourteen-year-old youths would typically train in a myriad of weapons. They would use whatever weapon that felt the best. Combat involving the Connate Godfiend descendants was simply too crude. Therefore, it was not strange that Qin Yun changed his weapon to a sword.


    Of course it wasn''t odd for a fourteen-year-old to change weapons.


    If it was someone centuries old, or an aged Godfiend who changed weapons suddenly, it would definitely leave people baffled.


    As for youths?


    It was too common.


    There were many reasons for youths to switch weapons, such as taking on a new master, or some psychological scar, or because a particular weapon was cool¡­

 241 Fire Phoenix City

    Chapter 241: Fire Phoenix City


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun took the sword and inspected it. It was old and unadorned but it sent a cold chill through him. "It''s a fifth-grade Dharma treasure. Its quality is extraordinary but the refinement process is overly crude. If the refinement techniques were better, it would easily have been refined into a third-grade Dharma treasure."


    "I''ll go out and kill a few fiendish demons," said Qin Yun as he tapped his feet and shot out the cave.


    "Wing!" The girl exclaimed as she chased after him.


    ¡­


    As for the three youths standing by the cave''s entrance, they were staring at the six rapidly approaching figures with weapons in hand.


    "There are six fiendish demons. We are going to be in big trouble." The three youths were panic-stricken.


    "Wing is currently making a breakthrough. He cannot be disturbed."


    One of the youths suddenly pulled open his bow. It was a black bow that suffused a luster that coursed along the bow''s body. With a whoosh, an arrow shot out, traversing thousands of feet in the direction of a wolf demon. The wolf demon easily dodged the arrow, and it continued its trajectory for about a thousand feet before hitting a distant mountain cliff. A deep hole blasted open from the shattered rock.


    "Hehehe."


    "Little bastards of the Godfiend?"


    "We will be rewarded for killing them." The distant fiendish demons had hideous faces that were filled with killing intent.


    The three youths glared at them with gritted teeth.


    But at that moment.


    Sou!


    A figure shot out from deep within the cave, stirring a gust of wind that swept past the three. The three youths widened their eyes in shock when they saw it was Wing charging into the distance.


    "It''s Wing!"


    "Wing! Wait for us!"


    "You just made a breakthrough. You need to be careful. We are coming to help you!" The three youths shouted immediately. Although they knew that Wing had just made a breakthrough in strength, a life-and-death battle was not determined solely by strength. Besides, there were six fiendish demons and only one Wing! There was an advantage in numbers and a fourteen-year-old youth was too young. Their combat techniques were rather ordinary and, even if their strength and speed increased, they could still be defeated when surrounded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun felt the wind blowing right at him as the surging powers in his body gave him a new feeling. It made the corners of his mouth curl up. "The complete use of my body''s strength feels rather special. However, I have long reached the Seamless realm. I can perfectly control every strand of energy."


    "Close combat with enemies. I have not engaged in close combat for a long time." Qin Yun was smiling.


    Back in his youth, he had traveled the world and fought at the northern borders for a total of six years. All of them were spent in close combat.


    Ever since he attained Heaven Man Unity, he mostly just released his flying sword to kill his enemies.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun reveled in his newfound strength, for he thought nothing of the six fiendish demons in front of him. He had immense strength that could match the Godfiend Connate Golden Core realm from his homeworld. With his sword arts, wouldn''t dealing with these six fiendish demons that were roughly at the level of the Connate True Core be trivial?


    "Let''s see how much different the demons of this world are from those of my homeworld," thought Qin Yun.


    "Haha, this little Godfiend bastard runs pretty fast."


    "The moment they saw the six of us, one of them actually charged forward. What a fool."


    "Little Godfiend bastard, meet your death!"


    The six fiendish demons rapidly spread out in preparation to surround Qin Yun.


    "Kill!" At the instant he approached them, Qin Yun''s right foot suddenly exerted strength. The Seamless realm gave Qin Yun perfect control over his strength. A typical fourteen-year-old Godfiend youth with the same body would not be capable of doing what Qin Yun was doing now. Their strength usage was too crude.


    The strength blasted out.


    He instantly unsheathed his sword, sparking light flashes.


    "He''s fast!" The fiendish demons were horrified.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Qin Yun''s sword flashes were no longer bumbling and crude but extremely intricate. They even contained a bit of the Heavenly Dao. Wherever a sword flash streaked, it would easily split apart the fiendish demons'' bodies.


    Out of the six fiendish demons, three immediately perished. The other three were injured. And that was only because Qin Yun was deliberately experimenting. He wanted to know the difference between the fiendish demons'' bodies of this world and his homeworld''s. If he didn¡¯t, he could have easily vanquished the six fiendish demons with one strike.


    "No."


    "What sort of sword art is this?"


    "How can this little bastard''s sword art be this powerful?" The remaining three injured fiendish demons were stunned.


    "Quickly flee!"


    The remaining trio now wanted to escape.


    But could they?


    The three youths flew over from afar in a panic. The girl had joined them too but as they got closer, they gradually slowed down and watched the scene in front of them in a daze. They saw sword flashes coruscating like the lunar light, beautiful but ice-cold.


    "How beautiful." The girl watched as her eyes seemed to burn. "Wing''s swordplay is truly beautiful."


    "That''s not swordplay. He''s killing fiendish demons!" A youth beside her said immediately.


    "That''s way too powerful. The six fiendish demons weren''t even able to put up any resistance at all."


    The four youths watched and could not help but gulp.


    Qin Yun slashed out eighteen times before all six fiendish demons were dead. Near the end, of his rampage the fiendish demons yelled, "Spare me!" As they tried to flee, Qin Yun cleaved off their legs and experimented with a few more strikes before killing them.


    "There''s no difference. Their bodies are similar to the fiendish demons of my homeworld." Qin Yun looked at the six fiendish demon corpses. "However, these fiendish demons only know how to fight in close combat. None of them are capable of casting Dharma spells."


    "Also, now that I have engaged in decimation, the increasing bloodlust in me has dissipated." Qin Yun was secretly baffled. Ever since he entered the world where he would dream a hundred years, the bloodlust had influenced his soul,giving him a strong desire the act to destroy others. It accumulated with time but after engaging in this massacre, that desire was completely gone.


    "Wing."


    "Wing."


    The four youths surrounded Qin Yun and looked excitedly at him.


    "Wing, you were awesome!"


    "I think your sword skills are even better my father''s," exclaimed one of the four.


    "You have already six kills but we still have none. We will certainly be needing your help."


    "Sure thing." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun spent the rest of the day helping each of the four youths slay a fiendish demon of their own.


    "Let''s go. We can return now!"


    "Haha, all thanks to Wing. If not for him, who knows how long it would have taken us to kill the fiendish demons?"


    A massive red cloud carried Qin Yun and company, as well as the fiendish demon corpses they had hunted, away. The cloud flew southwest.


    Among the five of them, only the girl Clarity could fly before Qin Yun made a breakthrough. Furthermore, she was only able to fly because of her bloodline! Clearly, this world did not have Dharmic spells. There were only capabilities provided by magus arts or Godfiend powers. Even flying arts were rare. Of course, one could slowly fly using the Heaven and Earth powers but that was not considered a flying art as the speed was ridiculously slow.


    "Fire Phoenix City."


    As the gigantic fire cloud soared on, Qin Yun and company saw a majestic city in the distance.


    "We''re back. We are back!" The five youths looked into the distance. The soldiers on the city walls saw them from afar and immediately reported the matter.


    Qin Yun looked at the majestic city from afar.


    "This is Fire Phoenix City, one of the nine great cities of humanity?" Qin Yun could sense the city''s magnificent aura pouring out from it.


    Fire Phoenix City¡­


    According to Wing''s memories, Fire Phoenix City was one of the nine great cities of humanity. The present era resembled an ancient era of his homeworld. Humans and Godfiends lived together! Humans were rather few in number so there were only nine main human cities! Every city had one or even two Connate Godfiends presiding over it.


    "A city has a Connate Godfiend in it, as well as descendants that have reached the Godfiend realm," Qin Yun thought wistfully. "Each one of these nine cities of humanity can match the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands of my homeworld."


    Swoosh.


    The fire cloud carried Qin Yun and company before landing in front of a gigantic city gate.


    The moment the city gate opened, it revealed adults with extraordinary auras!


    "Clarity."


    "Wing."


    The adults happily shouted out their children''s names.


    Qin Yun instantly saw a brawny red-robed man and a beautiful woman. They were Wing''s parents! As they were descendants of Connate Godfiends, their standing inside the city was naturally very high.


    As for the other youths, they were also descendants of Connate Godfiends. For instance, Clarity was a child of the Firephoenix family.


    "Father. Mother." Qin Yun went forward.


    "Good." The brawny man smiled with a nod when he suddenly looked at Qin Yun in surprise. "Wing, you have already reached the third Firmament?"

 242 Godfiend Temple

    Chapter 242: Godfiend Temple


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "What? Third Firmament?"


    "The Highwarrior family''s Wing just came of age and he has already reached the third Firmament?" The parents of the other youths looked at Qin Yun in astonishment. They were all descendants of the Connate Godfiends. Only by persistently cultivating for a long time, perhaps as long as a few centuries, would they reach the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. However, a fourteen-year-old would be considered a genius among Connate Godfiend descendants if he reached the third Firmament of the Mortal realm!


    Qin Yun replied, "After I was severely injured, I gained new insights while on the border of life and death."


    "Yes, Wing nearly died from his injuries."


    "We saved him."


    The other four youths said immediately.


    The parents present all came from the large family clans of the city. All of them knew! Struggling on the border of life and death was very effective but it was similarly very risky.


    "Haha, my Wing has already reached the third Firmament. Let''s bring him to the Godfiend Temple first." The muscular man said with a laugh. He immediately led Qin Yun and his wife onto a carriage. The beast pulling the carriage was a four-legged, white-furred mutate. There was a driver on the carriage who sent the beast flying rapidly forward with a shake of the ropes.


    "Let''s go. We should go to the Godfiend Temple as well, to take a look."


    "It''s been a long while since our Fire Phoenix City has seen a fourteen-year-old reach the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. Let''s all go."


    "Father, Wing''s sword skills are very impressive."


    "Oh? Very impressive?"


    The soldiers stored the spoils of war that the young Godfiend descendants had brought back. As for the four youths themselves, they followed their parents up a path that traveled straight to the Godfiend Temple.


    ¡­


    On the carriage, Qin Yun looked at the mutated beast in front of him. He sighed secretly, "About ten thousand years have passed since the birth of the world. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are still rich, richer than my homeworld by a hundred times. In such an environment, many fascinating mutated beasts can be produced. This Snow-treading Beast seems to be considered common in this era but in my homeworld, there are only regular animals like cows, horses, and goats.


    "With such rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, cultivation becomes much easier. Furthermore, with my present identity as a Connate Godfiend descendant, my talent in cultivating the Godfiend Dharmic formulations will be even more astounding. I can match Connate Golden Cores at fourteen. But in this world, this is still only considered a basic genius."


    "The third Firmament of the Mortal realm is rather common. The ones that can step into the Godfiend realm are still few and far between."


    To go from the third Firmament of the Mortal realm to the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm was equivalent to a Connate Golden Core reaching the level of immortal.


    Such a breakthrough was equally difficult for Godfiend descendants.


    They were capable of reaching the third Firmament of the Mortal realm because of their bloodline! But to reach the Godfiend realm, one needed to comprehend the Heavenly Dao. To the Godfiend descendants that usually valued strength and speed, it was too difficult to comprehend the mysticism in offensive moves or wonders of the Heavenly Dao!


    "We have arrived at the Godfiend Temple," said Wing¡¯s father, Highwarrior Ambition, loudly.


    Godfiend descendants had very unique names.


    They would place their ancestral Connate Godfiend''s name in front of their own names. And after their Coming of Age ceremony, they would take on another name and place it behind. For example, Highwarrior Ambition! Firephoenix Tianyin!


    And the greatest pursuit of Godfiend descendants was the day they would cultivate to the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm, gaining strength that could match Connate Godfiends. That way, their own names would become a Godfiend surname.


    For example, if Highwarrior Ambition reached the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm, his name would possess wondrous might. He could create a Godfiend family clan and his descendants would take on Ambition as a surname. Of course, Wing''s father, Highwarrior Ambition, was merely at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. He was but one of the more ordinary members among the many Connate Godfiend family clans.


    "Godfiend Temple?" Qin Yun looked over.


    Humanity had nine main cities. Each city had a Magus God Temple and Godfiend Temple. The Magus God Temple was a sacred land for magi in every city. The Godfiend Temple was similarly the sacred land of the many Connate Godfiend family clans.


    Highwarrior Ambition and his wife disembarked the carriage with Qin Yun and walked through the Godfiend Temple''s humongous door.


    "Ambition, why are you here?" The guard at the door was also a Connate Godfiend descendant. He too was at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm.


    "I''m bringing Wing to meet the Elders," said Highwarrior Ambition loudly and clearly.


    "Meet the Elders? Ah, has Wing already reached the third Firmament?"


    "It''s true! He has indeed reached the third Firmament." Two other guards immediately determined Qin Yun''s strength. Although the city was large, there were only a total of fifteen Connate Godfiend families in Fire Phoenix City. It was difficult for Godfiend descendants to reproduce so there were not many Godfiend descendants. Everyone knew each other very well.


    Qin Yun continued following his parents obediently.


    In truth, he had long reached the Seamless realm. His soul was fully capable of perfectly converging his aura, preventing others from determining his strength. But the Godfiend descendants in this world had imperfect control of energy. They naturally did not converge their auras so if he deliberately converged his, it would raise the suspicions of his elders.


    Soon.


    After traveling across a huge square in the Godfiend Temple, they came in front of an ancient and unadorned building.


    "Elder." Highwarrior Ambition stood respectfully outside and said, "Wing has broken through to the third Firmament during the Coming of Age ceremony. I have brought him here specially to meet you."


    "Oh?" A hunchbacked elder with long brows walked out. He smiled at Highwarrior Ambition. "Oh, it''s Ambition from the Highwarrior family. Not bad. Your child is not bad at all. To reach the third Firmament of the Mortal realm at such an early age, he is much better than a father like you."


    "Hahaha." Highwarrior Ambition laughed as he scratched his head. The beautiful woman beside him giggled.


    "Your name is Wing, isn''t it?" The elder looked at Qin Yun and said with a smile. "In a while, I''ll arrange an opponent for you. You must attack with all you got. By the way, what weapon do you use?"


    "Sword," said Qin Yun.


    The elder grabbed a sword out from the bag by his waist.


    Qin Yun thought to himself. "Since Dharma spells are uncommon here, the Cosmic Bags that can store items are extremely rare in this world."


    "You can use this sword for now." The elder threw the sword to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun extended his hand and grabbed it. When he unsheathed it, he saw that the sword had patterns on it that resembled a silver dragon. He faintly heard a dragon''s roar from the pattern. It was a third-grade Dharma treasure. He immediately said, "Thank you, Elder."


    "Why are using a sword?" Highwarrior Ambition asked puzzled. "Don''t you use a hammer?"


    "I had some insights while bordering life and death. I prefer to use swords now," explained Qin Yun immediately.


    Hammer? He was a sword immortal!


    "As long as you like it. You are still young, so it''s fine to switch weapons. But in the future, don''t switch weapons so easily. Focus on one type of weapon," exhorted Highwarrior Ambition.


    "Yes, Father." Qin Yun answered.


    "Also, do well later for me. It will be an honor for our Highwarrior family," said Highwarrior Ambition. "Use as much strength as you have!"


    "Wing, remember, go all out." The woman looked at Qin Yun with eyes filled with anticipation.


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded.


    He could sense the immense anticipation Wing¡¯s parents had for him. He also knew that although there were not many Connate Godfiend descendants, it would still be a sizable number when all nine cities¡¯ worth were added up! The Connate Godfiends that stood atop the pack would naturally choose the best for further nurturing. It was impossible for plebeians and geniuses to receive the same treatment.


    "How much the Godfiend Temple is willing to nurture you will all depend on this battle." Highwarrior Ambition was filled with anticipation.


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    Many Connate Godfiend descendants were gathered on the sides, watching the distant Qin Yun and the brawny man in front of him.


    There were fifteen Connate Godfiend family clans in the city and with a few people from each family coming to spectate, there were easily more than a hundred clansmen there.


    "Highwarrior''s family''s Wing? He just had his Coming of Age ceremony, didn''t he?"


    "What, he''s already at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm at such a young age?"


    "I would never guess that Ambition could produce such an impressive son."


    There was a flurry of discussion.


    "Haha." Highwarrior Ambition was extremely happy. He had never felt so proud in his life.


    "However, he''s still too young. He will at best last ten strikes against Bofeng."


    "I heard that his sword skills aren''t bad. He might be able to last fifteen strikes."


    "I think he might be defeated in three strikes."


    There were all sorts of discussions.


    Highwarrior Ambition frowned when he heard it. He stared at the distant Qin Yun and mumbled, "Wing, you have to do well. Last fifty strikes or something."


    The beautiful woman beside him looked at her husband and whispered, "Ambition, Wing is still too young. He''s lacking in combat experience while Team Leader Bofeng has a rich history of combat experience that might not even be inferior to yours. I think we should be satisfied if Wing can last ten strikes."


    ¡­


    And a distance away.


    "Begin then." The hunchbacked elder said.


    Qin Yun looked at the brawny man who was wielding a thick saber in front of him. The man laughed and said, "Highwarrior family''s Wing. I never expected you to come to the Godfiend Temple at fourteen. Come on, use all your strength. Do not be afraid of injuring me!"


    "Uncle Bofeng, you should be careful," said Qin Yun.


    "Haha, don''t you worry about me. Numerous fiendish demons have died under my blade. My strength is not something a child like you can match," said the man confidently.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun grabbed his scabbard with his left hand. "I''m going to attack."


    "Come on, let me see what you are capable of." The man nodded.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun suddenly charged forward.


    "You are pretty fast." The man looked with interest. The hundred plus Connate Godfiend descendants, who were a distance away, watched carefully. The Highwarrior couple was even more nervous.


    Qin Yun was extremely fast and at the exact instant he approached the man, his right hand flashed. He had instantly drawn his sword.


    The sword unsheathed!


    The brawny man only felt a lunar beam flash across his eyes. He immediately swung his thick saber up to block but failed.


    "Woosh!" The lunar beam came to a halt.


    The sword that Qin Yun held with one hand stopped beside the man''s neck.


    One strike!


    Victory!


    There was silence. Many of the Connate Godfiend family clansmen widened their eyes as they stared at the scene in disbelief.

 243 Moonlight Sword Skill

    Chapter 243: Moonlight Sword Skill


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Bofeng felt a chill at his neck before looking down to see the sword. He looked at Qin Yun in front of him and opened his mouth but did not say a word.


    "Am I seeing things?"


    "Wing from the Highwarrior family defeated Brother Bofeng in one strike?"


    "That strike was so fast and pretty."


    The surrounding Connate Godfiend descendants broke out into a flurry of discussion. Qin Yun''s strike had attracted their attention without them realizing. They only felt a sense of awe at its beauty! Before one''s skills reached Expertise Nearing Dao, the common combat moves most people usually encountered were only considered skills! Even though Qin Yun had deliberately kept a low profile, the sword skills he used contained slight implications of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Ambition, how did you teach your son?"


    "Why does Wing seem to be stronger than you, his father?"


    "Ambition, I never expected you to have such a powerful son."


    The crowd sounded out as Highwarrior Ambition grinned happily and said, "Haha, all I do is force him to train in a weapon every day. If he doesn''t, I''ll beat his ass. Look, isn''t he now stronger than me?"


    Highwarrior Ambition could feel that many people were changing their attitudes towards him.


    Envy, jealousy, respect¡­


    In the past, Highwarrior Ambition was only an ordinary clansman of the Highwarrior family. But now, his son was already remarkable at the age of fourteen! His son was destined to have a limitless future, possibly even becoming a famous Godfiend. Everyone naturally treated Highwarrior Ambition differently.


    ¡­


    As the clansmen were discussing the matter fervently, with some even flattering Highwarrior Ambition and his wife, the distant hunchbacked elder with the long brows was alarmed. He directly sent a voice transmission to the other Elders in the Godfiend Temple.


    "All of you, quickly come out of the hall. I feel that Wing from the Highwarrior family has a chance of reaching the Godfiend realm."


    "General Yuchang, come to Godfiend Temple as soon as possible."


    The elder quickly sent out these voice transmissions.


    And at that moment, Bofeng, who had lost to Qin Yun, was smiling. He said to Qin Yun, "Wing, I fully acknowledge my loss. Your sword skills are much greater than mine. I was trying to parry the attack but your sword was too fast. There was no way for me to defend against it. Besides, I couldn''t even see the trajectory of your sword. I really do not know how a kid like you practiced. You are much stronger than me."


    "I discovered all of this during the Coming of Age ceremony while bordering between life and death," said Qin Yun humbly.


    "Haha, good. It looks like the Highwarrior family will have an additional Godfiend in the future." Bofeng said with a wistful laugh before walking to the side.


    After the match ended, Qin Yun immediately walked towards Highwarrior Ambition and his wife.


    "Wing, wait a little longer. I''m getting Yuchang from the Firephoenix family to come. I want you to fight him," said the hunchbacked elder loudly.


    "General Yuchang?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "What?"


    "Firephoenix Yuchang?"


    "General Yuchang?"


    There was an uproar. Even the Highwarrior couple was alarmed.


    "They are getting General Yuchang to spar with Wing?"


    "Why is the Elder thinking so highly of Wing?" The couple turned anxious too. The reason for the commotion was that Firephoenix Yuchang was Fire Phoenix City''s presiding general. He was one of the few top existences below the Godfiend realm.


    "Look, there are more Elders coming."


    Many of the clansmen quickly lowered their voices. The four Elders that walked out of Godfiend Temple arrived and stood beside the hunchbacked elder. The five of them were at the Godfiend realm so they naturally had immense auras. The clansmen that came to watch also felt the pressure. They seldom saw the five Elders appear at the same time.


    Soon, Firephoenix Yuchang arrived too.


    "The five Elders will be watching the battle and they are getting General Yuchang to personally spar with Wing. The Elders must value Wing highly."


    "Yea, General Yuchang is the presiding general of our Fire Phoenix City. He''s nearly invincible against anyone beneath the Godfiend realm."


    "Even if Wing does have extraordinary potential, he''s only fourteen."


    People discussed in murmurs.


    "Both of you can begin, then." The hunchbacked elder said.


    Qin Yun looked at Firephoenix Yuchang, who stood opposite him. He was dressed in fiery-red scaled armor and had four sabers hanging behind him. He looked at Qin Yun and gave a casual smile. "Wing, I never expected you to defeat Bofeng with one strike. The Elders have instructed me to use all my strength. Therefore, you have to be careful." With that said, two arms grew from the sides of his torso. All four of his arms simultaneously drew the sabers behind him, each holding one.


    Divine power¡ªEight Arms!


    However, Firephoenix Yuchang had yet to reach the Godfiend realm. He could only have four arms from the Eight Arms divine power.


    The clansmen fell silent as they watched the battle from a distance. The Highwarrior couple also turned especially nervous.


    "Uncle Yuchang, be careful." Qin Yun tapped his feet and quickly charged forward. He appeared in front of General Yuchang in almost a blink of an eye.


    He instantly unsheathed his sword.


    His sword shadow was like a moon beam, fast and ethereal.


    "Clang." General Yuchang''s four arms wielded four sabers. He began brandishing the four sabers so fast that they produced afterimages. It resembled a mountain of blades that easily blocked Qin Yun''s sword.


    In the eyes of the surrounding clansmen, Qin Yun''s figure appeared erratic. He was constantly circling General Yuchang and producing cold sword flashes. Moonlight-like sword shadows flashed as though moonlight was carving out different spots. General Yuchang was forced to withstand the attacks with all his strength. He began to turn serious. "What a fast strike. The sword''s trajectory is hard to discern but I have to attack! I cannot be forced to defend passively. If I only stand here and defend I¡¯ll eventually reveal a flaw."


    "Kill!" General Yuchang suddenly bellowed. A gigantic fire phoenix phantom appeared behind him. The fire phoenix cried as an invisible blast inundated Qin Yun''s mind and soul sea.


    Divine power¡ªPhoenix Cry!


    Qin Yun''s soul had been nurtured from the purplish-gold Golden Core he condensed. How powerful was it? Although he did feel the blast, his combat prowess was unaffected.


    "To these people, I''m only a fourteen-year-old. I can''t appear too heaven-defying." Qin Yun pretended to fall into a daze. Only when General Yuchang''s saber came cleaving over did he finally react, barely managing to strike out with his sword.


    Bam!


    Two consecutive saber beams cleaved down while Qin Yun directly retreated and tumbled onto the ground a distance away. But he immediately stood up after doing a roll. There was blood on the corner of his mouth.


    General Yuchang had rich combat experience, after all. He kept up his momentum and unleashed a barrage of attacks, enveloping Qin Yun with a series of saber beams.


    Just after he stood up from tumbling, Qin Yun rushed to receive the blows.


    After receiving a few strikes in a wretched manner, he seemed to find his footing. He began to exchange blows with General Yuchang on more equal terms.


    After more than twenty blows were exchanged, General Yuchang used his divine power, Phoenix Cry again. "Kill!" But this time, Qin Yun was prepared so his reaction was clearly better.


    "Why do I feel that General Yuchang isn''t able to hold the advantage at all?"


    "Wing is still too young. He hasn''t cultivated in any powerful divine powers. General Yuchang is able to have four arms from the Eight Arms divine power he cultivates in. Yet, he fails to take the upper hand. If Wing were to cultivate in some powerful divine power, wouldn''t General Yuchang lose?"


    "That kid Wing is that powerful?"


    The spectating clansmen were very shocked.


    Highwarrior Ambition and his wife were completely dumbfounded. They were filled with anticipation for their son''s future, hoping that he would be more excellent than they were. But at only fourteen, he was equivalent to General Yuchang who was nearly invincible below the Godfiend realm?


    Soon.


    Both sides had exchanged more than a hundred blows. Everyone noticed that Qin Yun appeared to be increasingly relaxed.


    "Wing is showing increased confidence in his sword skills. Although he has little combat experience, Wing is slowly getting familiar with General Yuchang''s moves."


    "Why do I feel like General Yuchang will lose?"


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    Bam!


    A sword flash streaked past General Yuchang''s neck, leaving behind a wound. With that, Qin Yun retreated.


    General Yuchang sheathed his saber and touched his neck. The wound by his neck rapidly healed as he looked at Qin Yun with a complicated look. "Wing, you have won."


    Qin Yun nodded and pretended to look excited. However, he was secretly grumbling, "These Connate Godfiend descendants only rely on their bloodline''s strength. Their close combat skills are too crude. I simply used a set of sword intent skills, the Moonlight Sword Skill, to defeat him." Qin Yun needed to spend fifty years in this world, so he naturally had to work hard at accumulating resources, so as to cultivate to a higher realm.


    Therefore, he decided on taking the path of being a super genius. Being able to use sword intent skills at fourteen! This made him a super genius among Connate Godfiend descendants.


    What if Qin Yun used sword skills from the Paramount realm? That would leave the Connate Godfiends reeling in disbelief. They might even suspect that he was possessed.


    The main reason stemmed from the fact that the Daoist school of thought valued the comprehension of the Heavenly Dao greatly! The Paramount realm made one heaven-defying among anyone beneath immortals in Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    Paramount realm sword immortals were extremely rare.


    And what did this mean to Connate Godfiend descendants in this world? What the heck was the Heavenly Dao? Ninety-nine percent of Connate Godfiend descendants would not comprehend the Heavenly Dao their entire lives. Those that could would have long stepped into the Godfiend realm with the nascent environment of the world and their bloodline.


    In Qin Yun''s era, the Daoists and Buddhists all needed to step into the Dao to become an immortal or arhat.


    The five Elders that was spectating the battle from afar stared at Qin Yun with lit eyes.


    "Did I see wrong?" The hunchbacked Elder said with a voice transmission. "His sword skills seem to have reached the Heavenly Dao intent realm?"


    "That''s right. You didn''t see wrong."


    "It must be the Heavenly Dao intent realm. It looks like the Highwarrior family will have an additional Godfiend."


    "This matter must be reported to Patriarch Highwarrior."


    These Elders discussed among themselves through voice transmissions. This matter had to be reported to the Highwarrior family''s patriarch, the Connate Godfiend, Highwarrior.

 244 Spiritual Companion Item

    Chapter 244: Spiritual Companion Item


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    While the five Godfiend Temple Elders were reeling in excitement, the crowd of Connate Godfiend descendants broke into an uproar. The fourteen-year-old Wing had really defeated General Yuchang! With him so strong now, he was likely to become a Godfiend in the future.


    "He will definitely enter the Godfiend realm if he cultivates for another century or so. That will mean eternal life. All of us will only live for five hundred years."


    "Ambition, you actually managed to train up such a powerful son. Is beating your son¡¯s ass really so effective? Looks like I will have to give it a try."


    "Ambition was just pulling your leg. You actually believed him?"


    Amid the din, the hunchbacked elder said, "Ambition, bring Wing and your wife along."


    "Yes." Highwarrior Ambition answered immediately. The beautiful woman beamed, and her eyes narrowed into curved slits.


    ¡­


    The couple brought Qin Yun into a room. They sat cross-legged and faced a cauldron. The cauldron had a fire burning beneath it and there was copious amounts of meat in it. A female servant was roasting the meat and pouring condiments on it. Shortly after they arrived, she placed the cooked meat on a plate, sliced it with a sharp knife, and began serving them reverentially.


    "Let''s talk as we eat." The hunchbacked elder grabbed a pair of bronze chopsticks and began eating the roasted meat.


    Qin Yun also took a bite.


    In this era, meat was the staple!


    "How fragrant." Qin Yun could feel the rich spiritual energy within the meat that gave it its fragrance. It was supreme enjoyment all in one bite! It had been slightly more than ten thousand years since the world came into existence, so the vegetation and animals were still filled with spiritual energy. They made for especially delicious food.


    The Highwarrior couple also ate happily.


    "Wing," said the hunchbacked elder with a smile. "I noticed that your sword skills possess the intent of Heaven. How did you train?"


    "Elder," said Qin Yun after he immediately swallowed the meat he was chewing. "During my Coming of Age ceremony, I was severely injured and nearly died. Back then, the demon''s claws tore apart my chest and I was rescued by Dawn and the others. As I lay there resting and healing, I kept thinking about the instant the claw shredded my chest. I gradually began to think of measures to parry the attack and felt that using a sword would be most suitable. My sword art is extremely fast, making it possible for me to resist fiendish demons. It is unfathomable, like moonlight."


    "He gained insights into the Heavenly Dao''s intent while bordering life and death?" thought the elder secretly. "As I expected."


    Qin Yun did not speak further.


    He was a Paramount realm sword immortal. His homeworld had a long history and there were countless people who had achieved the intent realm during that history. At the very least least, all Connate Golden Core cultivators were capable of doing so! Therefore, Qin Yun could naturally fabricate a perfect explanation. For example, Yi Xiao was once struck by divine lightning. On one hand, she came into close contact with divine lightning, and on the other, her potential arose while she bordered life and death, allowing her to gain insights into the Lightning intent.


    These Connate Godfiend descendants had powerful souls and were capable of Heaven Man Unity. They could easily control the Heaven and Earth powers. Those that could attain Heaven Man Unity could naturally perceive the movements of the Heavenly Dao. However, gaining insight was a different story altogether. It was possible to gain insights while hanging between life and death because of their great potential.


    "Elder," said an alarmed Highwarrior Ambition. "Are you implying that Wing has grasped the Heaven''s intent realm?"


    His beautiful wife beside him was also reeling in disbelief.


    "That''s right." The elder smiled.


    "Then, then¡­ Wing¡­ will become a Godfiend?" Highwarrior Ambition found it unbelievable.


    "It shouldn''t take long." The elder smiled with a nod. "Those that grasp the Heaven''s intent realm will definitely enter the Godfiend realm with the aid of a Connate Godfiend patriarch."


    Qin Yun sighed wistfully when he heard that.


    "Connate Godfiend descendants truly enjoy exceptional advantages. It''s so much easier for them to cultivate than ordinary humans. According to the Highwarrior Three Volumes, once one can produce the fourth runic pattern out of the six, they have basically reached the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm. Daoists and Buddhists must first step into the Dao before they can become immortals or arhats."


    "With the insights from my Paramount realm, I believe it will take half a month to reach the fourth runic pattern if I study it carefully."


    "If it''s only at the intent domain realm¡­ it will probably take me decades to grasp the fourth runic pattern."


    "If it is the intent realm, there''s probably no hope at all without outside help," thought Qin Yun. "In this present era, Connate Godfiends are all alive. With the patriarchs'' help, one can naturally break through more easily."


    "That''s good. I can use this opportunity to break through to the Godfiend realm."


    "I entered this world by invoking a hundred-year dream. Because this dream is so realistic, I can still sense the Heavenly Dao in this world. Although there are some differences with the Heavenly Dao from my homeworld, they¡¯re only superficial. The core is still the same," thought Qin Yun. "Since the Heavenly Dao is real, I believe my soul will become stronger if I can step into the Godfiend realm. It will also make my cultivation faster."


    He could only spend fifty years in this world. After that the dream would shatter.


    He needed to make good use of that time to increase his strength.


    ¡­


    Fire Phoenix City, deep in the Godfiend Temple.


    Beside a black lake.


    A Godfiend Temple Elder dressed in black robes stood beside the lake. A mist gradually rose above the lake as a phantom appeared. It was a stocky figure dressed in a simple beast hide. A gigantic snake coiled around his left arm and his pupils were golden in color as they locked onto the elder. The figure was none other than the Connate Godfiend Highwarrior.


    A Connate Godfiend''s bloodline was too powerful. It was difficult for them to bear children as they typically took human wives. After ten thousand years of procreation, the Highwarrior family''s offspring was spread out among the nine human cities. Of course, the majority, nearly half of them, lived in High Warrior City.


    "Firephoenix Youxu, you were looking for me?" the man in beast hide said with a repressive voice.


    "Godfiend Highwarrior." Firephoenix Youxu bowed slightly. He was at the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm. He was not much lower in standing than Connate Godfiend Highwarrior. "I have a good news for you. Your Highwarrior family has a child named Wing in Fire Phoenix City. He''s only fourteen but he has grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm during the Coming of Age ceremony."


    "What? Fourteen? He just finished the Coming of Age ceremony and he has already grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm? Haha. To grasp it at such a young age, he would probably reach the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm if he cultivates for a few centuries or millennia." Highwarrior looked delighted. "Great, I''ll send Juyong to Fire Phoenix City."


    "Alright." Firephoenix Youxu nodded.


    Highwarrior Juyong was a Godfiend whose standing was only second to the patriarch of the Highwarrior family. He had similarly reached the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm. By sending him, Highwarrior was showing the importance he placed on Wing. As for the Connate Godfiend himself? He would typically preside over the city and not leave without good reason.


    ******


    Qin Yun ate the roasted meat with his parents while chatting with the hunchbacked elder.


    The Elder seemed to be very interested in Qin Yun and they talked about Qin Yun''s fourteen years. The Highwarrior couple felt honored that an Elder would warmly chat with them.


    Unknowingly, more than two hours passed.


    "Swoosh."


    A stream of light descended from the sky and landed outside the house. It transformed to reveal an elder with black disheveled hair.


    When the elder entered, the Highwarrior couple immediately stood up, thrilled. They politely bowed, "Elder Juyong."


    "Juyong?" Qin Yun bowed. He immediately knew who the person was. Highwarrior Juyong was the most powerful Godfiend among the Connate Godfiend Highwarrior''s descendants. He would usually stay in High Warrior City to receive the teachings of the patriarch.


    "Good."


    The elder''s gaze landed on Qin Yun. "Are you Wing?"


    "Yes," said Qin Yun politely.


    The elder replied, "I can sense the Highwarrior bloodline in you. However, it doesn¡¯t seem to be particularly strong. Did you really grasp the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm?"


    "I guess so." Qin Yun looked nervous.


    "Then, release your Godfiend powers and slash at this cauldron with a sword beam. Remember, the sword beam has to contain the Heavenly Dao''s intent." The elder pointed to a cauldron nearby and instructed.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun immediately waved his hand and cleaved at the cauldron more than a hundred feet away.


    Swoosh.


    He cleaved with his palm, condensing a sword beam with his Godfiend powers. When the sword beam flew out, it struck the distant cauldron like a thin beam of moonlight. However, the beam experienced an invisible obstruction when it hit the cauldron. It was completely blocked.


    "Your sword beam already has this much power. You truly have grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm." The black-haired elder''s eyes lit up as he laughed out loudly. "My Highwarrior family will prosper! For you to grasp the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm at fourteen, you even have a chance of catching up to me in the future."


    "The both of you can return first." The black-haired elder looked at the Highwarrior couple and instructed. "Wing will have to enter seclusive cultivation. He will return after his cultivation."


    "Yes."


    "Wing, listen to the Elder." The Highwarrior couple was extremely excited. They knew that their son would enjoy a meteoric rise.


    "Yes, Father." Qin Yun answered obediently.


    After the Highwarrior couple left, the female servants left too. There was only Qin Yun and the two Elders left in the room.


    "In other occasions, clansmen who attain the intent realm would be sent to your family''s city. This time, you have come personally to us. Your family sure thinks highly of this child," said the hunchbacked elder with a smile.


    "Patriarch personally gave me the instructions so I naturally had to come." The black-haired elder flipped his hand and produced a black palm-sized stone before handing it to Qin Yun. "Wing, our Highwarrior family''s patriarch is a Connate Godfiend. When the world came into existence, this stone was Patriarch''s Spiritual Companion Item, Stone of the Earth! This Spiritual Companion Item is the most important treasure of the Highwarrior family. Patriarch has directed me to loan you this stone for a hundred years of cultivation. Remember, the Stone of the Earth has to be left in Godfiend Temple''s Fire Phoenix Nest. If you want to cultivate, come to the Godfiend Temple. The Stone of the Earth is not to leave the vicinity. Our Highwarrior family cannot afford to lose it."


    "Yes, I understand," replied Qin Yun immediately.


    "Your Highwarrior family is lending the Stone of the Earth to this young kid for a hundred years?" The hunchbacked elder was astonished.


    A Spiritual Companion Item would be consumed gradually with every use.


    It was destined to dissipate one day.


    To let a descendant use it for a hundred years was an astonishing investment. The clansmen that cultivated for centuries before grasping the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm would typically use a Spiritual Companion Item for about four years. That amount of time was sufficient for them to break through to the Godfiend realm.


    "It''s Patriarch''s decision," said the black-haired elder. "Alright, quickly open the Fire Phoenix Nest. Let Wing cultivate in there."


    "Alright, follow me," said the hunchbacked elder.

 245 Breakthrough. Godfiend Realm Part 1/2

    As Qin Yun walked in, he inspected the black Stone of the Earth in his hand. "How strange. I feel my blood boiling while holding it and there''s a strong desire to eat it."


    "When cultivating, inject your Godfiend energies into the Stone of the Earth." Highwarrior Juyong looked at Qin Yun and exhorted, "Remember, don¡¯t eat it. Even a piece the size of a fingernail will explode your body to smithereens. Besides, future descendants of our Highwarrior family will rely on the Stone of the Earth for cultivation. Just relying on your own power to attain the Godfiend realm is too difficult."


    "I understand," answered Qin Yun.


    The security became tighter as the trio proceeded inside. They walked across inconspicuous corridors and gradually went deeper underground.


    There was another world underground.


    "How beautiful." When Qin Yun reached the underground space, he saw that the stone walls in the distance had colorful crystals embedded in them. There were rivers by the side that emanated rich spiritual energies.


    "It feels as though the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are richer here than in the outside world," Qin Yun could not help but comment. At the same time, he looked at the river that suffused colorful light with spiritual energies rising up from it. When he sensed it, he could not help but exclaim, "What? The river is made of liquid condensed from Heaven and Earth spiritual energies?"


    The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies condensed to form a river?


    That was unheard of in his homeworld!


    "Wing, what''s there to be surprised about? There will be stuff that will shock you even more later." The hunchbacked elder pointed to a distant bronze door. "By the way, the area behind that door contains many manuals of the Godfiend Temple, as well as manuals for all sorts of divine powers. When you reach the Godfiend realm, you can enter and choose as you please. Learn whatever fancies you. However, you have to focus on one or two divine powers because they are not easy to cultivate."


    Qin Yun nodded to show his compliance. He sighed inwardly, "According to Wing''s memories, humans have nine great cities. There are very few Godfiends in each city! I''m being given the freedom to choose any of these manuals to study. There are no restrictions."


    He continued walking.


    The underground space was the most important area in the Godfiend Temple. It hid manuals, weapons, and treasures. The Elder introduced the various aspects of the hall along the way, broadening Qin Yun''s worldview.


    Soon, Qin Yun and company arrived in front of an underground lake. The gigantic lake spanned about half a kilometer. It was filled with liquid condensed from Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. There were twelve huge buildings constructed on the surface of the lake. Together, they looked like an island in the middle of the lake.


    "This is the Fire Phoenix Nest." The hunchbacked elder pointed at the twelve chambers. "The Fire Phoenix Nest is a place for those at the Godfiend realm to enter seclusive cultivation! There are twelve chambers here and, other than the Connate Godfiend, Firephoenix, our Fire Phoenix City has had at most twelve Godfiends throughout history. Each one of them occupies a chamber. But now, there are only seven Godfiends left."


    "What happened to the other Godfiends?" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    "Wing, you are still too young. You are only fourteen," said the hunchbacked elder. "The last time the fiendish demons fought our Fire Phoenix City was eighteen years ago. Therefore, you have never seen such a massive war. Every war was horrifying. Naturally, Godfiends would die in battle."


    Qin Yun nodded and looked at the twelve chambers.


    Every generation, more Godfiends would be produced. But Godfiends would also die in battle! At its peak, Fire Phoenix City had a total of twelve Godfiends, but now it only had seven Godfiends.


    How many Fire Phoenix City Godfiends had died throughout history? Qin Yun did not know but he could sense the tragedy behind it.


    "Fiendish demons have always fought with us in order to determine the true owner of this world," said the hunchbacked elder. "Connate Godfiends can travel the world freely but they slowly spread their bloodline to humans one generation after another. Wing, you are considered as having awakened your bloodline. However, there are still many things you have not awakened. If you can''t cultivate in Godfiend Dharmic formulations, you have no right to obtain a Godfiend surname. You can only live like an ordinary human and procreate. The Godfiend bloodline has long spread among humans and we believe that in tens of thousands of years, every newborn will probably have a sliver of the Godfiend bloodline."


    "Therefore, Connate Godfiends choose to protect humans," the hunchbacked elder continued. "However, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are too rich. Even vegetation can gain sentience and become demons, not to mention beasts. If you include the Water race, then there are just too many demons that far exceed our numbers. Besides, Other Realm Fiendcelestials have also given demons cultivation formulations."


    Highwarrior Juyong added, "We have not created demonic cultivation formulations but the Other Realm Fiendcelestial know of it. They have even created two Fiend Nests, making it easier for demons to attain the fiendcelestial realm."


    "Fiend Nest?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "It''s a land of cultivation more unique than Fire Phoenix Nest," said the hunchbacked elder as he pointed at the twelve chambers. "This entire underground space was originally one of the sources of the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. Therefore, it can easily form rivers and even a lake filled with Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. And in the middle of the lake, there are solidified Heaven Earth Essence Crystals!"


    "There are Heaven Earth Essence Crystals everywhere inside the chambers. Cultivating amid them will naturally be fast," said the hunchbacked elder. "We humans have nine great cities that contain nine sources of the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. We never expected the Other Realm Fiendcelestials to occupy two other spots, or that they would transform them into two Fiend Nests."


    "If we eventually lose the war, it would be equivalent to seeing our race be exterminated. This world would then be the world of the fiendish demons." The hunchbacked elder frowned as he looked at Qin Yun. "Wing, go on in. There are five doors out of the twelve chambers that can be pushed open. Choose any one of them. The cultivation chambers have magus arrays set up. You will become the owner of the chamber and then even we cannot enter. Only the Connate Godfiend Firephoenix can forcibly enter because this entire Godfiend Temple is under Firephoenix''s control."


    "Go on. Step into the Godfiend realm as soon as possible." Highwarrior Juyong''s eyes were filled with anticipation. "The third Firmament of the Mortal realm is too weak."


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun held the Stone of the Earth with one hand and walked across the lake that effused spiritual energy to the middle of the lake where there were twelve chambers. He controlled the Heaven and Earth powers and gently pushed. Soon, he discovered he could open the fifth chamber.


    Highwarrior Juyong and the hunchbacked elder watched Qin Yun enter a chamber.


    "Your Fire Phoenix City will have an additional Godfiend," said Highwarrior Juyong wistfully. "Even if he''s slow, it will only take four years or so. He will definitely break through but he''s too young. He''s lacking in combat experience. You have to take good care of him in the beginning. Do not let the weak him encounter formidable foes or he might lose his life. I think he will have no problems reaching the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm."


    "Don''t worry. So many Godfiends have died every generation! It''s rare for us to encounter a kid with such immense talent. During this hundred years, we will protect him with utmost care," said the hunchbacked elder.


    "Alright." Highwarrior Juyong nodded slightly.


    Slightly more than ten thousand years had passed since the birth of the world.


    In the beginning, humans were slowly born and they started from humble origins. Connate Godfiends also traversed the world in a daze. With time, Connate Godfiends made contact with other living beings and gradually, their intelligence grew. Demons also began to come into existence and there were no wars in the beginning. At best, there was some friction between the races. Later on, Other Realm Fiendcelestials entered the fray. They wanted dominion over this world. Connate Godfiends wanted to protect their bloodline and also to never submit. So they chose to fight!


    The war was extremely horrifying.


    "Patriarch Highwarrior said that the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies would gradually thin. The number of vegetation and animals that gain sentience will also decrease, resulting in a gradual decrease in the demon population. As for humans, they will increase in number. The longer this goes on, the more of an advantage we will have," said Highwarrior Juyong. "Therefore, as long as we can hold on and last until the end, we will definitely win."


    "I wish I could live to see that day," said the hunchbacked elder.


    "Muqi, you will," said Highwarrior Juyong with a smile.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun entered one of the chambers.


    The chamber was about a hundred feet wide. There were large crystals in the room, with the largest ones being twenty to thirty feet wide. The smaller ones were a few feet wide. These crystals had magus arrays enveloping them on the surface. There was no way to take them away.


    "These are¡­" Qin Yun looked at the resplendent crystals that filled the room in disbelief. "They are¡­ are Immortal Crystals?"


    "What they call Heaven Earth Essence Crystals are known as Immortal Crystals in my homeworld. A tiny Immortal Crystal is already extremely valuable. This many Immortal Crystals¡­" Qin Yun was a little dazed. "It''s completely unimaginable in my homeworld."


    He had once used a Fluttering Water Immortal Stone to step into the Connate realm.


    And Immortal Crystals were even purer and more valuable than Fluttering Water Immortal Stones.


    The Myriad Temple''s standard currency was Immortal Crystals! The sheer number of Immortal Crystals in this chamber could only be found in such ancient periods, especially in sources of the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies.


    "In such an environment, even if I do not cultivate, my body would still gradually experience changes. Even a simple plant in here would attain sentience and become a demon. Perhaps, they might even become an ancient mutant!" sighed Qin Yun. "In my homeworld, no one would even dare to dream of having such a land of cultivation."


    "Time to begin. Let me first break through to the Godfiend realm in one shot."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on an Immortal Crystal that was about ten feet wide. He then placed the valuable Stone of the Earth in front of him.

 246 Breakthrough. Godfiend Realm Part 2/2

    A wisp of Godfiend power flew out of Qin Yun''s body, permeating the Stone of the Earth in front of him. The instant it penetrated the stone¡ª


    "Boom!"


    His mind went into a buzz.


    In Qin Yun''s perception, he ''saw'' an exceptionally profound runic pattern. On it, there were all sorts of runes that were constantly in flux. The Highwarrior Three Volumes cultivation manual had a total of six runic patterns and it was said that comprehending the sixth runic pattern would allow one to achieve the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm. But at that moment, the runic patterns that Qin Yun sensed from the Stone of the Earth seemed more profound than the sixth runic pattern.


    Stately, expansive, strength, the land¡­


    Qin Yun felt that he was seeing a portion of the Heavenly Dao''s maneuvering and it moved his heart.


    "Acquiring comprehension of the Dao in the morning leaves one contented even if one dies in the evening."


    "I have been cultivating my sword all this while and today, I have finally seen the Dao for myself."


    Qin Yun was filled with excitement.


    At that moment, the mysterious powers in the Stone of the Earth surged into Qin Yun''s body.


    His blood was boiling as every muscle, bone, meridian, and organ¡ªdown to the very last cell¡ªrejoiced. The original third Firmament Mortal realm runic pattern on his most important organ¡ªhis heart¡ªseemed to be covered in countless networks both inside and outside. Now, the runic network was being guided by the Stone of the Earth''s mysterious power and very naturally, it began to form even smaller runic patterns. His body was also absorbing the energy from the Immortal Crystals around him. As the energies surged into his body, they catalyzed the transformation of his heart.


    "With the Stone of the Earth and so many Heaven Earth Essence Crystals, my strength would slowly increase even if I did not cultivate, probably causing me to step into the Godfiend realm in a few decades," thought Qin Yun. "The Connate Godfiend Highwarrior loaned me this Stone of the Earth to cultivate for a hundred years. That shows how highly he thinks of me. He probably hopes I can cultivate to an even higher realm."


    "Previously, without any external help, it would have taken me half a month to comprehend the fourth runic pattern with my Paramount realm insights."


    "And with so much external help¡­ I''ll make the breakthrough now!"


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    Countless golden runic patterns began to spread all over his heart. Some remained on the surface of his heart while others were buried within. Instantly, a gigantic three-dimensional runic pattern took form!


    His heart was palpitating with the undulating changes.


    Boisterous power surged from the Immortal Crystals constantly into his heart, causing his heart to constantly produce Godfiend blood that spread throughout his body. His body rapidly transformed, metamorphosing from the Mortal realm to the Godfiend realm.


    This transformation was truly a quantum leap in realm.


    ¡­


    With the Immortal Crystals'' help, it took just ten minutes for Qin Yun to step into the Godfiend realm. His body''s metamorphosis was completed and his soul was rapidly enhanced during the breakthrough. Although the speed had slowed down and required a long period of nurturing, it would still take a month or two to complete the enhancement.


    "Godfiend realm?" On the ten-foot-wide Immortal Crystal, the cross-legged Qin Yun opened his eyes. He extended his hands and gently clenched them.


    "Boom!"


    When he made a fist, it caused the air around him to gently tremble.


    "No wonder Connate Godfiend descendants employ such crude combat moves. The advantage their bodies have is just too apparent," thought Qin Yun. "I have cultivated for many years and grasped three Paramount realms, and only by giving my all can I produce the final killer move Samsara that can barely reach the might of immortals and fiendcelestials. But now, by entering the Godfiend realm, just my strength alone can match my Samsara flying sword art."


    "Perhaps it is greatly lacking in profundity and would be completely decimated by a flying sword art but if I cultivate in a few more divine powers, my attacks would be a lot more powerful than Samsara. After all, I can only cast Samsara two or three times."


    Qin Yun sighed emotively in secret.


    "Haha."


    "Whatever, this is only a world formed by the hundred-years dream."


    "Here, my body and soul''s enhancements are all fake. When I wake from my dream, I''ll return to my true body." Qin Yun gave a self-deprecating laugh. "Only enlightenment in the Heavenly Dao can be brought back to reality."


    "However, my comprehension will be much faster after the qualitative change in my soul." Qin Yun was delighted.


    He looked at the Stone of the Earth in front of him. "It seems that this Stone of the Earth is the source of the Highwarrior family''s bloodline. It''s more intricate than the sixth runic pattern! It''s no wonder that it is the Spiritual Companion Item of the Connate Godfiend, Highwarrior."


    Although Qin Yun had broken through, he was inside the Fire Phoenix Nest and constantly absorbing energy from the Immortal Crystals, so he did not cause a commotion in the outside world.


    ¡­


    After the breakthrough, Qin Yun was in no hurry to leave. Instead, he continued cultivating.


    The Stone of the Earth was the source of the Highwarrior bloodline and a manifestation of the Dao! However, the Highwarrior bloodline''s Dao that it represented was known as the Dao of the land! The ''defense'' Paramount realm he comprehended was also a tiny portion of the Dao of the land.


    In a blink of an eye, half a year passed.


    The chamber''s stone door opened.


    Qin Yun walked across the surface of the lake, his body''s aura was clearly immense.


    "Wing from the Highwarrior family, you are out." The clansman who was responsible for watching the area could not help but yell happily from afar. Following that, he became astonished. "You have reached the Godfiend realm?"


    "Yea, I just broke through," said Qin Yun. However, he was thinking to himself, "If you were to know that I immediately broke through the moment I began my seclusion, you would probably get quite a scare. After all, even the Heavenly Dao intent realm will require about four months to make a breakthrough."


    "I''ll inform the Elders." The clansman immediately departed.


    Qin Yun walked onto the bank.


    He saw clansmen paying attention to him from a distance away. They were familiar people. In the past, Wing was a junior at the second Firmament of the Mortal realm and they were obviously very casual with him. But when Qin Yun took over, he reached the third Firmament of the Mortal realm during the coming of age ceremony and then defeated General Yuchang. Now, he had reached the Godfiend realm after a seclusion, making him instantly become an Elder of the Godfiend Temple. His status was now completely different and they did not dare act too casually with him.


    "This strength." Qin Yun felt his body''s immense strength as well as the limitations the Heavenly Dao had on him. "I can now sense the limitations the Heavenly Dao has placed on me. If I were to violate them, I''d receive heavenly punishment."


    "But since I''m alive, unless I enter seclusion forever and never make contact with other sentient beings, I will ultimately generate karma and the tribulations will befall me."


    Tribulations.


    They differed in strength.


    The strong ones could even cause him to die instantly.


    "That''s right."


    "In life, there has to be something to fear. Mortals are afraid of influence, experts, and strength. Even those who attain immortality are afraid of the heavens," thought Qin Yun. "If I were to live truly unbridled, I would probably treat countless mortals like ants. I would even engage in war heedlessly, rendering the world asunder. The rules that the heavens created make life better for all living beings."


    As Qin Yun was pondering over the matter, a group of Elders rushed over from afar. Leading them was the black-robed Elder, Firephoenix Youxu.


    Achievement of the Godfiend realm also meant that one was a Godfiend existence. The group of Elders was naturally all Godfiends.


    "Wing." The black-robed Elder Firephoenix Youxu looked at Qin Yun joyfully. "It''s awesome that you were able to break through to the Godfiend realm in half a year''s time."


    "Our Fire Phoenix City has an additional Godfiend now."


    "Haha. Wing, cultivate well and perhaps you can reach a higher realm in the future."


    All the Elders were rejoicing.


    Every major war would see generations of Godfiends die in battle. As such, every birth of a new Godfiend made them happy. As long as there was no end to the production of Godfiends and future generations became stronger, they would eventually clinch the ultimate victory.


    "Wing, you came here to cultivate after completing the Coming of Age ceremony," said Firephoenix Youxu with a smile. "You haven''t taken up a name yet, right?"


    "I''ve thought of a name," said Qin Yun.


    "You came up a name for yourself? What is it?" All the Elders looked at Qin Yun.


    "Qinyun," said Qin Yun.


    "Qinyun?" The Elders were puzzled. "Highwarrior Qinyun?"


    "Which Qin and which Yun?"


    Everyone pressed for an answer as Qin Yun explained the characters.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun?" Everyone memorized this name.


    "This name is a little odd."


    "I think it''s not bad. Your name is Muqi. I think it''s worse than Qinyun."


    "As long as he likes it. From this day forth, my Fire Phoenix City will have an additional Godfiend¡ªHighwarrior Qinyun!" The Elders were feeling extremely delighted. As for the name? Names in this world were chosen without much thought. They randomly selected a nickname in their youth. If they reached a dignified status, they would have a surname and a name! Names could take any form. For example, Youxu or Muqi. Even Connate Godfiends had rather random names, such as Firephoenix, Highwarrior, and Heavenshroud.


    ¡­


    From that moment forth, the nickname Wing was history. Highwarrior Qinyun officially took his place on the stage of humanity, becoming one of the many Godfiends in humanity''s nine great cities.


    Time passed as Qin Yun continued cultivating in peace after his breakthrough. Nothing major happened in that time. Before he knew it, ten years passed.

 247 Ten Years Later

    Chapter 247: Ten Years Later


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was deep in winter, during the last month of the year. Snowflakes fluttered around and the ground was encrusted with a thick layer of snow.


    Fire Phoenix City, Highwarrior family.


    Although Fire Phoenix City had fifteen families comprised of Connate Godfiend descendants, only the Firephoenix family''s main lineage was here. Other than the Connate Godfiend Firephoenix, among the eight Elders that included Qin Yun, only four of the Godfiend Temple Elders were from the Firephoenix family! As for the other family clans, they were branched lineages. For example, there were only a few dozen Highwarrior family members in Fire Phoenix City.


    "Qinyun, it''s rare for you to come back from the Godfiend Temple. Why don''t you share a meal with your clansmen?" said the beautiful woman, Qiyu. She looked at her son who had reached the Godfiend realm proudly! Due to her son, the Highwarrior family received greater respect in Fire Phoenix City. Her standing in the Magus God Temple also rose. At the current time, the magus lineage was still weaker. Humanity still depended on the Godfiends to protect them, with the magus lineage serving as a backup.


    "If I''m there, both the clansmen and I would end up eating uneasily," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Mother, go on in and have your meal. I''ll keep walking around for now."


    "You are an Elder after all. The clansmen would definitely not dare to be too casual with you. Alright, go on your merry way." Qiyu nodded.


    Qin Yun strolled across the laden snow and came to a wooden pavilion. He sat inside and looked at the lake. It had a pristine, thin layer of ice on its surface. Shortly after, he took a calabash out from his Cosmic Bag and began drinking.


    "Great wine." Qin Yun enjoyed the alcohol and smiled. "The wine here is much better than in my homeworld."


    The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were rich.


    It made the wine brewed here excellent too.


    "Everything has happened so fast. In a blink of an eye, I have already spent ten years in this world. Unfortunately, I have yet to step into the Dao!"


    "In the past ten years, I managed to grasp five Paramount realms. I believed that¡­ I could fuse the five Paramount realms together, but I''m just short of creating a Sword Dao that belongs to me." Qin Yun felt anxious and helpless too. It was the feeling of understanding something very clearly but being unable to articulate it well. Qin Yun''s comprehension was clearly solid but there was something lacking when he attempted to put it to use.


    "That can only mean that my comprehension isn''t deep enough and that I do not understand it thoroughly."


    "But it shouldn''t take much longer. I believe I will step into the Dao soon."


    "I still have forty years to spend in this world. There is more than enough time." Qin Yun anticipated the day he stepped into the Dao. That was the most important matter in this dream of a hundred years.


    As for the cultivation of the Godfiend lineage?


    He believed he could spend ten years to complete the fifth runic pattern so as to step into the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm considering the cumulative effects of his five Paramount realms, the Fire Phoenix Nest, and the Stone of the Earth! However, Qin Yun did not wish to do so just yet. He didn¡¯t come to this world to study runic patterns. Putting effort into that was a waste of time! He came to this world to step into the Dao!


    Cultivating his sword skills was most crucial to him.


    "This world is a dream after all. My sword skills are core." Qin Yun looked at the feather-like snow as he extended his hand to catch a snowflake. His eyes suffused a look of puzzlement. "However, this world feels too real. During my ten years here, my parents, my clansmen, and all the Elders, they felt so real. Could this be a real world?"


    Qin Yun could not help but think of that. With that, he shook his head and chuckled. "I shouldn''t let my thoughts run wild."


    "Yun." A clear voice sounded from afar.


    "Elder Yun." Another voice was heard.


    He saw a red-dressed girl with a heroic bearing and a beautiful blue-dressed girl approaching him. They had completely different demeanors. One was passionate like fire while the other was tender and soft like water.


    "It''s the two of them." Qin Yun felt his head ache.


    "Yun." The red-dressed girl was overjoyed as she ran over and clung to Qin Yun''s arm. She immediately said, "When I heard that you came out of seclusion from Fire Phoenix Nest and went to the Highwarrior family, I immediately rushed here."


    "Yuqing, take a seat. Sit down first." Qin Yun immediately shrugged her arms off him.


    When the red-dressed girl saw this, she felt a little helpless and melancholic. "Yun, you always treat me with such disdain."


    The blue-dressed girl beside watched with a smile.


    "Not at all," said Qin Yun immediately.


    The two girls¡­


    The red-dressed girl was a childhood playmate who had the name Clarity during his Coming of Age ceremony. Clarity was her nickname, but now she was called Yuqing, Firephoenix Yuqing. Her talent was not bad and she had reached the third Firmament of the Mortal realm two years ago. Since they grew up together, and given Qin Yun''s excellent credentials, Firephoenix Yuqing naturally courted him like crazy.


    The girls of Connate Godfiend descendants showed initiative when it came to relationships.


    Due to their powerful bloodline and difficulty in having children, male Connate Godfiend descendants would usually have a harem! Similarly, female Connate Godfiend descendants could have a male harem!


    Therefore, female Connate Godfiend descendants would show passionate initiative.


    Firephoenix Yuqing had confessed thrice! Whenever Qin Yun wasn¡¯t locked away in seclusion or in solemn grounds like the Godfiend Temple, where she could not trespass, she would usually take the opportunity to look for Qin Yun.


    "Yun, we are only twenty-four. We are still young. You will definitely fall for my charms. I, Firephoenix Yuqing, will definitely make you my man." Firephoenix Yuqing''s eyes were filled with fighting spirit.


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    "Yun, although we are descendants of Connate Godfiends, and you are even in the Godfiend realm, it will be difficult to have children in the future. But you can marry other ordinary human girls. I wouldn''t mind," said Firephoenix Yuqing immediately.


    "Alright, enough. Cut it out." Qin Yun was exasperated.


    "Sister Yuqing, don''t force Elder Yun," said the blue-dressed woman by the side with a smile.


    Qin Yun glanced at the blue-dressed girl.


    The blue-dressed girl was a Magus Maiden of Magus God Temple. Her name was Cailan. His mother had brought her into the Highwarrior family and she was purported to be his chosen wife. His mother claimed that the Dharmic formulations which Cailan cultivated in made it easier for her to bear children with Highwarrior sons. Back then, his mother also said, "I don''t care if you find other women but you have to take Cailan in. You are at the Godfiend realm. It''s very difficult for ordinary girls to bear your children."


    From then on, Cailan frequently looked for him. Although she was not as passionate as Firephoenix Yuqing, she was as steady and gentle as water and had been patiently waiting for him all this while.


    "Sigh."


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly once again.


    This was only because he frequently cultivated in seclusion. He was focused on cultivating and had rejected arranged marriages. As a result, there were only these two who refused to give up. With him being the youngest Godfiend Temple Elder in Fire Phoenix City, he could probably have a huge harem if he was willing. He could not shirk off the duo because one of them had his parents on her side and the other was too passionate. Furthermore, Firephoenix Yuqing had no ill intentions and they had developed a relationship since childhood, so Qin Yun could not be too heartless.


    "They are still very young. Both of them are in their twenties and they should be fine when they grow older," thought Qin Yun. "Anyway, they both have extremely long lifespans. This fruitless pursuit of me won¡¯t set them back too much."


    ¡­


    At that moment, in the desolate plains thousands of kilometers away from Fire Phoenix City.


    Twenty fiendcelestials stood above a black cloud. All of them had immense and unfathomable auras that emanated fiendish gases.


    "We are finally beginning the war," said a brawny red-scaled fiendcelestial. "Among the human''s nine great cities, seven of them will be saved for later. Fire Phoenix City and Black Water City are the true targets this time. And what''s required of us is to deal with Fire Phoenix City."


    "We have to destroy Fire Phoenix City this time."


    "If we can destroy one of the nine great cities of humanity, it will shake their foundations."


    Fiendcelestials remarked one after another.


    The brawny red-scaled fiendcelestial said, "That Connate Godfiend Firephoenix is the most powerful and the hardest to deal with. The three of us are responsible for ensnaring her in the name of the Empyrean Lord! The rest of you are responsible for killing the other Godfiends. Once the Godfiend realm Elders are destroyed, the remaining mortals¡­ Hmph, without the Godfiend realm Elders protecting them, Fire Phoenix City will fall. The large number of fiendish demons under us will flatten it."


    "How many fiendish demons have we amassed?"


    "Don''t worry. For this attack on Fire Phoenix City and Black Water City, I have amassed a fiendish demon force that numbers a hundred of times that of the Fire Phoenix City''s mortals. As long as more than half the Godfiend realm Elders perish, and Connate Godfiend Firephoenix is held back, they would not be able to hold their ground. The army of fiendish demons that is a hundred times more than them will easily flatten the humans in the city."


    "With our numbers, we hold the absolute advantage against the mortals."


    "The most critical thing is the Godfiend realm Elders."


    "As long as we succeed, the Empyrean Lord will definitely reward us handsomely. If anyone were to cower away in fear and spoil our plans, hmph! All of you know what will await you," said the red-scaled fiendcelestial fiercely.


    Many fiendcelestials exchanged looks and felt their hearts tighten.

 248 Preparation for War

    Chapter 248: Preparation for War


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a yard of the Fire Phoenix City''s Highwarrior family.


    Qin Yun was practicing with his sword as sword flashes surged like a tide, leaving anyone who saw them stifled.


    "How powerful." Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan were watching not far away.


    "Yun''s sword arts are the strongest I''ve ever seen." Firephoenix Yuqing could not help but comment.


    Cailan nodded as well. "Temple Lord has also praised Elder Yun for his impressive sword arts. His attainment in sword arts alone would rank him in the top five among humanity''s nine great cities."


    "You call that praise?" Firephoenix Yuqing could not help but remark. "Among all the Elders in Fire Phoenix City, Yun is the only one that uses a sword. There aren''t many Elders who use swords in the nine great cities. So what if he''s ranked in the top five? I think Yun''s sword skills should be either first or second in all of humanity."


    Unlike Connate Godfiends that were born from the world, the Connate Godfiend descendants had human blood running through them. Thus, they were also considered a part of humanity.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun was practicing freely with his sword when suddenly, his eyes were filled with a redness. He immediately repressed it.


    "Ever since I came to this world, the rich bloodlust in my body has been affecting me, filling me with great killing intent," thought Qin Yun. "The bloodlust dissipated after I killed those fiendish demons during the Coming of Age ceremony. Later, when I broke through to the Godfiend realm, the bloodlust arose once again. It made me more intent on killing and keeps pushing me to the limit. Such horrifying killing intent would have driven me mad if I were still at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. Thankfully, my soul experienced a qualitative change after reaching the Godfiend realm, allowing me to endure this killing intent."


    "However, it still doesn''t feel good having to live with such intense killing intent for the past ten years."


    "Even my sword arts have become ruthlessly oppressive."


    Qin Yun stopped his practice and frowned slightly.


    He did not really mind since the path the Stone of the Earth paved for him was very similar to the defense Paramount realm he already comprehended. His greatest improvement was in the defensive aspect of his sword art. But due to the influence of the killing intent, his sword arts also turned more oppressive. It did not matter though, since the more powerful it was, the better it was at slaying his enemies.


    Furthermore, it gave him unexpected results! The focus it took to repress his killing intent all day also honed his Dao heart.


    Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong!


    Suddenly, deep and urgent-sounding gongs resounded throughout the city.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    "This is?" Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan, who were watching Qing Yun practice his sword arts, suddenly had drastic changes in expression.


    Everyone in the Highwarrior family, be it sleeping elders that were awoken, youths, women practicing their archery, or men, all of them stopped what they were doing.


    "Quick."


    "To the city walls."


    Instantly, all the men and women from the Highwarrior family, including the elderly, donned armor as fast as they could before running out with weapons in hand.


    "Fiendish demons are here. I''ll be going to the city walls." Firephoenix Yuqing rushed out quickly too. She had reached the third Firmament of the Mortal realm and needed to participate in battle as well.


    "Another war?" Cailan also immediately rushed toward Magus God Temple.


    Qin Yun retrieved a black armor Dharma treasure from his Cosmic Bag. With a thought, the black armor covered him entirely. Following that, he tapped his feet and transformed into a stream of light that streaked across the sky, heading straight for Godfiend Temple.


    At that moment, countless people in Fire Phoenix City were anxiously looking up. Connate Godfiend descendants at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm, as well as the Heaven Magi of the magus lineage were running, leaping to cover more than a thousand feet, while others were flying across the sky. All of them headed for the four different walls!


    The countless commoners in the city were praying. They had no means to participate in the battle for they would only be sending themselves to their deaths if they did so.


    Therefore, although the Connate Godfiend descendants and magi enjoyed high prestige in the city, numerous commoners were willing to serve them. This was because every time the fiendish demons attacked the city, it was the Connate Godfiend descendants and magi who stood on the city walls to fend them off. There, they risked their lives.


    ¡­


    In a square at the Godfiend Temple.


    Sou!


    After Qin Yun landed, other beams of light descended. Some walked out of Godfiend Temple. In a blink of an eye, eight Godfiend Temple Elders were gathered there.


    "Your Majesty Firephoenix." The eight Elders, including Qin Yun, saw a beautiful woman dressed in a fiery-red dress. She had flaming red hair and brows. Her eyes suffused red light but she looked absolutely gorgeous. Qin Yun considered his wife, Yi Xiao, to be the prettiest woman he had ever seen, but Firephoenix was in no way inferior to Yi Xiao. Furthermore, she had a domineering air to her.


    Firephoenix scanned the area and said, "The fiendish demon horde is attacking. Many of you are already experienced, except for Highwarrior Qinyun. It''s his first time participating in war but I believe you have heard from others about it many times."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Firephoenix continued, "The eight of you will divide yourselves evenly to defend the four walls. The main thing to defend are the Magus Pillars. Youxu, you and Qin Yun are to defend the eastern wall. Qin Yun is young and lacking in experience. You have to help him."


    "Yes," replied Firephoenix Youxu respectfully.


    "Linli, you will go to the south wall with Muqi. The remaining four will take their usual places," commanded Firephoenix. "Remember, although protecting the Magus Pillar is important, your lives are more important. Be fully vigilant!"


    The eight Elders were extremely solemn and serious.


    In such a massive war, dying in combat was possible no matter how careful they were.


    "Alright, move out," Firephoenix commanded.


    Immediately, Qin Yun and Firephoenix Youxu streaked across the sky and headed for the eastern city wall.


    Only ten thousand plus years had passed since the birth of the world. Humans were still few in number and although Fire Phoenix City was one of the nine great cities of humanity, it had a radius of only about five kilometers. On the eastern wall, there were already many Godfiend descendants dressed in armor and wielding weapons. They were prepared for the oncoming onslaught. There were also a few Heaven Magi but they were not adept at close combat.


    Boom! Boom!


    Qin Yun and Firephoenix Youxu landed on the eastern wall and stood about a thousand feet apart. They looked at the eastern horizon.


    Along the horizon were rolling black clouds. Standing on them was a dense horde of fiendish demons.


    It wasn''t only the east!


    The other three directions all had large hordes of fiendish demons riding over on black clouds.


    ¡­


    Firephoenix was standing at the top of a towering column in the middle of the city. Fire Phoenix City had a total of five Magus Pillars. There was one in the city and one situated along each of the four walls. The five Magus Pillars¡­ formed the core of the magus array that fortified Fire Phoenix City.


    "Your Majesty Firephoenix." A voice sounded from afar.


    Firephoenix turned to look. Faraway where the Magus Temple was, a black-haired man was leading eight Heaven Magi.


    "Temple Lord, I''ll leave the magus array to you," said Firephoenix.


    "Don''t worry." The black-haired man nodded.


    ******


    Each Magus Pillar was fifty feet in diameter and about three hundred feet tall.


    The five Magus Pillars¡­ were also the prisons of Fire Phoenix City! Those that had committed severe crimes were imprisoned in the Magus Pillars. Of course, there were fiendish demons that were caught alive. They too were imprisoned in the Magus Pillars.


    "Activate all the magus arrays."


    There were all sorts of mechanisms within the Magus Pillar.


    The magi immediately activated the many minor magus arrays in the Magus Pillars, enveloping all the prison cells.


    "Hmph, if those fiendcelestials dare attack the Magus Pillars, just a slight stir will kill the numerous fiendish demons and inmates in them. These are all mortals. With so many mortals dying instantly, the fiendcelestials would probably be smitten by the tribulations instantly." The magi had eyes filled with frenzy.


    ¡­


    On the city walls.


    Qin Yun was dressed in black armor and a companion sword hung by his waist as he looked at the eastern horizon. He also knew that all the Godfiend descendants and magi were doing their utmost in the city to prepare for the battle ahead.


    "Yun."


    Among the many warriors on the city walls, Firephoenix Yuqing stood there dressed in blue armor. She looked at the distant Qin Yun and suffused a smile. "Yun and I will be fighting alongside each other."


    "Yuqing, follow me later. This is your first time you are participating in battle. Remember, follow your training." A voice sounded beside her.


    Firephoenix Yuqing immediately answered, "Yes, Father."


    As long as Godfiend family members could live long enough, they would all reach the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. Therefore, there were many people on the city walls with father-daughter relationships, or even had their grandfathers and great grandfathers standing alongside them¡­ Every Connate Godfiend family clan sent scores of their members to the battlefront. Anyone at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm had to participate in the battle. There was no exception.


    Qin Yun turned his head to look at the clansmen that were prepared to do battle. He felt his heart undulating. "Fifteen Connate Godfiend family clans. Other than the children that lack Godfiend bloodlines, as well as the youths that have yet to reach the third Firmament of the Mortal realm, everyone else is here! All of them are prepared to risk their lives in battle! Perhaps, my homeworld''s ancient times also had such wars!"


    Following that, black clouds from all over approached.


    "Prepare for battle!"


    A clear voice resounded throughout the city.


    Firephoenix stood on the Magus Pillar and swept her surroundings with a gaze.


    "To arms! To arms! To arms!" All the clansmen on the four city walls roared angrily. They were either at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm or Heavenly Magi. Their roars quaked the world, distorting even the air around them.

 249 Qinyun! Come back!

    Chapter 249: Qinyun! Come back!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the city, the black-haired man was controlling the five critical Magus Pillars from afar. Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! With the five gigantic Magus Pillars as the core, a magus array enveloped the entirety of Fire Phoenix City, extending to a kilometer past Fire Phoenix City''s walls.


    And in the sky, there were twenty fiendcelestials overlooking Fire Phoenix City on the amassing black clouds. Leading them was the brawny fiendcelestial in red-scaled armor. He looked coldly at the distant Firephoenix.


    "Charge!"


    "Charge!"


    "Charge!"


    The fiendish demon horde also had its leaders who immediately gave the order to attack.


    Instantly, all the fiendish demons charged at Fire Phoenix City on black clouds. However, when they entered the range of Fire Phoenix City''s magus array, they could not help but plummet to the ground, slamming heavily onto the desolate plains, leaving craters in the ground. They rapidly got up unfazed, since there was no fall that could kill such powerful fiendish demons. Many fiendish demons saw this and took the initiative to steer their clouds to the ground. As long as they were within the magus array¡¯s area of effect, no fiendish demon could fly.


    "Kill those humans!"


    "Kill!" The fiendish demons roared. They either charged forward on all fours or strode with their two humanoid legs. Instantly, a large fiendish demon horde swarmed Fire Phoenix City from all sides.


    "If we don¡¯t destroy these magus arrays, there is no way we can conquer Fire Phoenix City." On the rolling black clouds, the twenty fiendcelestials were extremely calm. One of them said with a smile. "Although our numbers dwarf the humans by a hundredfold, they have only about ten to twenty percent of their strength under the magus array''s repression. Those humans are all Connate Godfiend descendants. Their strength is increased under the magus array and they also have battle formations. The fiendish demons under us will die en masse while those humans might occasionally see only one of theirs perish."


    "So what if they die? This war is meant to give them a taste of the threat of death. As long as one of them can grasp the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm after hundreds or even a thousand of them die, we can use the Fiend Nest to allow them to step into the fiendcelestial realm. The loss would be worth it."


    "Yes, at least an attack on a city pits them against humans. They usually engage in mindless slaughter against each other on the great plains."


    "Even if more than half these fiendish demons die, it would be nothing if three to five fiendcelestials are born."


    These fiendcelestials were already used to this game.


    Fiendish demons would kill one another on the great desolate plains! But due to the tiny differences in strength, their lives were not threatened enough.


    Or it could be said that fiendish demons were long accustomed to being threatened.


    As for attacking the city, with its magus array and the great disparity in strength, the sense of having their lives threatened would be more intense! Typically, a group of fiendish demons would die before one human Connate Godfiend descendant perished! Under the threat of death, it was indeed easier to force fiendish demons to gain insights into the Heavenly Dao''s intent. Only by gaining insights into the intent realm could they retreat from battle without punishment.


    ¡­


    In the present world, humans had small territories. They converged to form the nine great cities of humanity.


    Meanwhile, the vast desolate plains were the territories of the fiendish demons! The fiendish demons were numerous and, with the rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies available in that era, the demons were usually of higher realms than those from Qin Yun''s homeworld. The fiendish demons that dared to attack were mostly existences that could match the third Firmament of the Mortal realm. They numbered a hundred times more than the human warriors as they took huge strides forward, traversing a distance of a kilometer with each step.


    "Swoosh."


    They rapidly climbed up or leaped onto the city walls. Some even used each other to bolster their efforts. Soon, the first among them had scaled the two-hundred-feet-tall city walls. Groups of fiendish demons would also form battle formations to kill the human warriors.


    "Kill!" The humans on the city walls roared furiously. They formed battle formations of three or five and fought together seamlessly. They watched each other''s backs and their flanks! They trusted their clansmen absolutely and joined hands in slaying the fiendish demons. In their own cities, with the augmentation of the magus array, their strength held the absolute advantage.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" Firephoenix Yuqing held one sword in each hand as she manically slew fiendish demons. Blood splattered around as she gritted her teeth in her battle fury. Her father and others were aiding her as well.


    There were also Heaven Magi that hid far away in midair. They cast magus arts and took the opportunity to attack the fiendish demons while they were down.


    As for the fiendish demons, they were accustomed to fighting for their lives. Survival in the desolate plains engraved the law of the jungle into their bones. They did not dare defy the fiendcelestials'' orders. And as long as they provided meritorious service, the handsome rewards were enough to drive them crazy.


    "Yuqing." Qin Yun also saw Firephoenix Yuqing fighting not far away from him.


    With him in the Godfiend realm, he could not participate in the battles between mortals. Instead, the outcome of the war eventually depended on the fight between the Godfiends and fiendcelestials!


    "The Magus Pillars have many mortal prisoners in them. Those fiendcelestials would not dare to forcibly attack them. Once they attack it, the prisoners within will die. The massive karma will probably incur heavenly tribulation upon them," thought Qin Yun. "However, if the fiendcelestials are allowed to use their tricks, such as using a domain attack or an attack that controls souls, they will eventually be able to topple the Magus Pillars given time."


    "But in order to slowly take down the Magus Pillars, they have to kill the Godfiend Elders." Qin Yun understood this point. "Every war, the fiendcelestials surround and attack the various Elders."


    "Firephoenix, not bad. You now have one more Godfiend under you. I heard his name is Highwarrior Qinyun?" The red-scaled armor fiendcelestial, leader of the twenty fiendcelestials, said with a resounding voice. "But since the last time we fought, I have gained five more fiendcelestials under me. The rate at which you humans create Godfiends is far inferior to us fiendcelestials."


    "Hmph." Firephoenix stood on the Magus Pillar in the middle of the city as she darted her eyes coldly at them. "Wu Siyou. I didn''t manage to kill you last time, but who knew, you actually have the guts to seek death this time."


    "Seek death? Hahaha¡­ Firephoenix, you think too highly of yourself. Everyone, begin the attack! Let Firephoenix see how powerful we are." The stocky fiendcelestial and the two fiendcelestials beside him transformed into streams of light simultaneously as they went straight for Firephoenix.


    "Kill!"


    "Everyone, obliterate Fire Phoenix City!"


    The fiendcelestials streaked through the sky. Although they were repressed upon entry into the magus array formation, it was nothing worth mentioning. The strength of a fiendcelestial at the first Firmament would only decrease by about ten percent.


    "It begins."


    The eight Heaven Magi immediately initiated the magus array in the city''s Magus God Temple.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    One magus array after another was activated.


    Qin Yun, Firephoenix Youxu, and all the other Godfiends had their might augmented by the powerful magus array. The strength of the Elders that were at the first Firmament nearly doubled. Of course, the magus array''s augmentation on the extremely strong Qin Yun wasn''t as exaggerated. However, it was still better than nothing!


    "Qinyun, be careful in a while. Don''t get more than a thousand feet away from me." Firephoenix Youxu exhorted with a voice transmission as he looked at the four fiendcelestials charging towards his eastern wall.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. He felt the killing intent he had repressed for a decade boil. "Finally! I finally do not need to suppress it any further!"


    The eastern, western, and northern walls were attacked by four fiendcelestials each! The southern wall was being attacked by five fiendcelestials!


    It was normal. Throughout history, humans were forced to fight battles with a numbers disadvantage! The fact that they were defending their own city and the augmentation of the magus arrays allowed them to make up for the numbers disadvantage.


    "Firephoenix Youxu!" A roar was heard.


    On the eastern wall, four fiendcelestials charged straight at Firephoenix Youxu. None of them bothered with Qin Yun!


    This was because Firephoenix Youxu was the only person at the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm in Fire Phoenix City! The four fiendcelestials that were sent to attack the eastern wall also had redoubtable strengths themselves.


    "Kuihuo!" Firephoenix Youxu''s fighting spirit surged as he immediately clashed with the fiendcelestial Kuihuo, who was his equal in strength. However, he still needed to divert his attention to deal with the other three fiendcelestials at the first Firmament.


    The four fiendcelestials attacked Firephoenix Youxu but did not have an instant advantage.


    "No one is bothering with me?" Qin Yun was taken aback before a cold glint flashed in his eyes. "Alright, since all of you underestimate me, I''ll take this opportunity to vanquish all of you!"


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    "Oh no."


    Be it Firephoenix, who was high in the sky, the Temple Lord in the city, or the Godfiend Temple Elders on the eastern, western, and northern walls, their expressions changed drastically. Fire Phoenix City was only about five kilometers in radius. At their levels, they could easily take note of the battles between the fiendcelestials and the Godfiend realm Elders anywhere in the city.


    And at that moment, Elder Muqi and Elder Linli were responsible for guarding the southern wall where they were facing the attacksof five fiendcelestials. They were not afraid in the beginning since they were fighting together and had the magus array augmenting them. The extra fiendcelestial didn¡¯t make much of a difference. Both of them were Elders with rich combat experience!


    But the instant they clashed, one of the fiendcelestials swiped down with his claw. Elder Linli''s large hammer was deflected. He lost his defensive stance and revealed all sorts of openings.


    "Heh." Another fiendcelestial got in with a quick slash, slicing off Elder Linli''s arm that held the huge hammer. The first fiendcelestial who had two gigantic claws tore through Elder Linli''s chest and grabbed his heart. He ruthlessly crushed it. Those that reached the Godfiend realm would not die that easily even if their hearts were smashed to smithereens. However, they would lose all means of resistance. Following that, the second saber-wielding fiendcelestial slashed out, instantly dicing Firephoenix Linli into pieces, completely decimating him.


    With that, the Godfiend realm Elder, Firephoenix Linli was slain by two fiendcelestials upon first impact.


    This scene left everyone dumbfounded.


    "Linli!" High in the sky, Firephoenix''s eyes were brimming with tears as she yelled.


    "Haha, you never expected that, did you? We brought five fiendcelestials at the second Firmament this time." The red-scaled fiendcelestial cackled as he fought Firephoenix. "The two of us work together to hold you back, while one of them deals with Firephoenix Youxu. These three are already long famous¡­ but the other two, are brothers from Blackwater Pond. Both of them made a breakthrough to the second Firmament in the past twenty years, one after another. Haha, it has been kept highly confidential."


    If a fiendcelestial made a such a name for themselves, the humans would have received detailed information about them.


    At the fiendcelestial realm, they also knew how to converge and control their auras with the increase in levels. One could not tell their strength simply from their external appearances.


    If it were Qin Yun''s homeworld, even a Connate False Core could converge their auras, preventing others from determining their strength!


    The Blackwater Pond brothers could only be determined to be fiendcelestials. They had deliberately converged their aura, preventing others from telling that they were at the second Firmament.


    "Among the twenty fiendcelestials, five of them are at the second Firmament." Firephoenix was feeling an anxious rage.


    In comparison, Fire Phoenix City only had seven Elders at the first Firmament and one at the second Firmament.


    As for the fiendcelestials, they had fourteen at the first Firmament! Five of them were at the second Firmament. This ratio was obviously abnormal. It was clearly deliberate.


    "Darn it."


    "Both of the Blackwater Pond brothers have broken through to the second Firmament of the fiendcelestial realm." The Elders along the other three city walls turned anxious and furious.


    If they knew about the fiendcelestials being at the second Firmament, Firephoenix Linli and Elder Muqi would have chosen to flee. They would have diverted additional resources to deal with them, preventing such a quick loss of a Godfiend.


    "Muqi!"


    "Muqi, run!"


    The other Elders turned anxious.


    The Elders on the western and northern walls had their hands tied. They were unable to provide any assistance. Besides, they did not dare to! If someone at the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm went to fight a fiendcelestial at the second Firmament realm, they would barely last ten to twenty strikes due to the array''s augmentation. But if they fought the combined forces of two fiendcelestials at the second Firmament, they would be instantly decimated. Firephoenix Linli was a perfect example!


    And now, there was a total of five fiendcelestials on the southern wall! Two of them were at the second Firmament and three of them were at the first Firmament. Initially, the three fiendcelestials at the first Firmament attacked Elder Muqi and held him back. After the Blackwater Pond brothers killed Firephoenix Linli, they quickly came to deal with Elder Muqi.


    Everyone was gripped with anxiety at that moment.


    "Boom!"


    However, there was a stream of light that shot from the eastern wall, streaking across the sky in the direction of the southern wall.


    "Qinyun!" The Elders, including Firephoenix, had drastic changes in expression.


    The person that had charged to the southern tower to defend it was the newly promoted Godfiend, also the youngest twenty-four-year-old Godfiend Elder¡ªHighwarrior Qinyun!


    "Qinyun! Come back!"


    "Quickly come back! Don''t send yourself to your death!" bellowed one after another.


    "You are sending yourself to your death!" Firephoenix Youxu, who was being held back, turned anxious. He tried charging out but the other four fiendcelestials held him back. "Hahaha, Firephoenix Youxu, Elder Qinyun is very young and brave. Let him be."


    Firephoenix Youxu''s eyes burst with anger. He had been exhorted to watch over the still inexperienced Qin Yun.


    "Qinyun!" Firephoenix Youxu bellowed angrily with a voice transmission. "Come back!"


    "Yun." Firephoenix Yuqing turned anxious when she noticed the scene.


    "Yuqing, stay focused." Her father blocked a fiendish demon''s attack meant for her as he shouted immediately.


    "Sou!"


    However, Qin Yun rushed straight for the southern wall in the form of a beam. The killing intent he had repressed for ten years boiled over as his eyes turned red.


    "Divine power! Infinite Light! Third Firmament!"


    Qin Yun instantly cast a divine power.


    A divine power had an extremely high requirement for one''s realm.


    However, Qin Yun now grasped five Paramount realms. Infinite was one of the more recently-grasped Paramount realms. It was similar in nature to Infinite Light, one of the many divine powers available in Godfiend Temple. At the realm Qin Yun had attained, cultivating in a divine power was doing things somewhat in reverse order. As such, he was naturally able to cultivate Infinite Light to the third Firmament.


    With the divine power cast, Qin Yun''s speed rose tremendously, making him akin to a blurry beam of light. He was fifty percent faster than when he used the Beam Transformation Art back in his homeworld. The eastern wall was only about four kilometers from the southern wall. Just after the two fiendcelestials at the second Firmament killed Firephoenix Linli, they sensed a flash coming from the eastern wall that shot towards them.


    "Shwing."


    Instantly, his sword was drawn.


    "Kill!" Qin Yun''s eyes burned blood red as they were filled with killing intent.

 250 Killing Fiendcelestials

    Chapter 250: Killing Fiendcelestials


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Among all the Godfiend Elders present, the one wallowing in despair the most was Elder Muqi! He was about to be surrounded by five fiendcelestials and two of them were at the second Firmament realm. The only thing that could be considered lucky for Elder Muqi was that the two Second Firmament brothers dealt with Elder Linli first! However, with Elder Linli dead, he was the only Godfiend Elder left on the southern city wall.


    "Escape." Elder Muqi only had thoughts of escaping.


    "Divine power, Mountain Uprooting!"


    The hunchbacked Elder Muqi had long fluttering brows. His stocky body suddenly buffed up as the might of his wooden stave increased.


    "Haha, you won''t be able to escape."


    "The three of us will hold you back. If you actually manage to escape, we might as well kill ourselves."


    "Muqi, you will definitely die today. Your beloved Fire Phoenix City will be flattened by us." In truth, the three fiendcelestials did not believe they could kill Elder Muqi by themselves. They were only doing their best to hold him back to prevent him from escaping.


    "I''m doomed!"


    Elder Muqi could not help but panic as his struggle to escape ended in failure.


    Just as the three fiendcelestials had him pinned down, he saw a beam of light surging towards him from the eastern wall. Qin Yun''s casting of the divine power, Infinite Light, allowed him to traverse four kilometers in a flash.


    "It''s that Highwarrior Qinyun."


    "He''s rather fast. Is he adept at divine powers related to speed? Hmph! Having cultivated for such a short time, he foolishly focused on that instead of cultivating divine powers for close combat. Did he cultivate a speed-based divine power to ensure that he could escape?"


    "He''s not a fool. He didn''t charge at the two from Blackwater Pool but towards us instead. Is he trying to save Muqi?"


    "Coming here is no different from seeking death!"


    The three fiendcelestials surrounding Elder Muqi similarly noticed Qin Yun rushing at them. They thought nothing of him simply because divine powers had extremely high requirements for one''s realm. Every divine power required a lot of time and effort to master. To push a divine power to the intent realm would only be considered the first Firmament. The intent domain realm would be considered the second Firmament, while the Paramount realm was the third Firmament!


    They all knew that Highwarrior Qinyun had only stepped into the Godfiend realm ten years ago. It would already be impressive if he was even good at one divine power. In terms of combat strength, how could the three fiendcelestials with rich combat experience be inferior to a newly promoted Elder?


    "Qin Yun, quickly leave." Although Elder Muqi was reeling in despair, he still sent an urgent voice transmission.


    Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent. At the moment he drew his sword, he cast an even more special divine power.


    Boom!


    His surging Godfiend powers formed two thick clouds. The upper cloud was blue and the lower cloud was earth-yellow. The two clouds resembled a millstone that ground a space in between them that spanned a thousand feet! The two clouds slowly spun as though the millstone was mashing down on the three fiendcelestials in the middle. As for Elder Muqi, he was completely unaffected. Everything was within Qin Yun''s control.


    Divine power¡ªHeaven Earth Millstone!


    Qin Yun now grasped five Paramount realms. To compliment those five Paramount realms, Qin Yun found four divine powers that corresponded to them! This was because at the Paramount realm, he could naturally cultivate the four divine powers to the third Firmament. Of course, Qin Yun had much bolstering him up. He could have cultivated another divine power, but he believed that he would only be able to cultivate it to the second Firmament or maybe only up to the first Firmament.


    He did not waste further effort because the four divine powers were already sufficient! To cultivate all four divine powers to the third Firmament was already an astounding feat!


    The complement of the Heaven Earth Millstone was Qin Yun''s Juxtaposition Paramount realm. It was an extremely rare domain-type divine power. When trapped in the domain, enemies would be suppressed from all sides and greatly have their strength reduced.


    "What!? Domain-type divine power?" The three fiendcelestials were alarmed.


    "Furthermore, this divine power is too strong. My strength has halved."


    "How is this possible!?"


    Just as the three were still reeling in shock, the phenomena of a river appeared around them. Above the river, a moon-like sword flash rose!


    It was the sword skill, Bright Moon Over River!


    This strike was even more perfect and intoxicating than back in Qin Yun''s homeworld. Qin Yun had grasped five Paramount realms and the strike was powered by the only Paramount realm that he could not find a corresponding divine power for. Qin Yun called it Paramount Emotions!


    Paramount Emotions represented how much more important emotions were than anything else!


    Qin Yun was adept in various flying sword attacks, such as Bright Moon Over River, Dual Flight, and the Samsara that he created early on. He later created Parting and Homecoming. Parting was created due to his good friend Fu Qing''s death which left him in grief for a very long time. He also thought of the many brothers he had while fighting in the northern borders, eventually creating such a strike. As for Homecoming, it was created by Qin Yun based on his pining for his wife and family after being in this world for too long.


    As he created these similar moves, Qin Yun finally gained insights into a new Paramount realm, Paramount Emotions. However, there was no corresponding divine power that matched Paramount Emotions despite the many divine powers the nine cities of humanity had.


    "Divine power, Infinite Light!"


    "Sword art, Bright Moon Over River!"


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun showed no mercy.


    Infinite Light was not only fast when flying, it also made his movements and attacks much faster! Furthermore, he had attained the third Firmament of the divine power. Coupled with Bright Moon Over River, his sword art was as fast as it could go. By coupling the divine power with his sword art, it was a pursuit of extreme speed! It was perfect when combined with his domain divine power, Heaven Earth Millstone, that repressed his opponents.


    "He''s too fast. I can''t make out anything." A fiendcelestial looked at the moon-like sword beam appear before him in panic. All he could do was try his best to brandish his large ax in hopes of blocking.


    "Clang."


    Although he was horrified, his ax had luckily blocked Qin Yun''s strike. He was feeling thankful but fearful. "I managed to block it. I blocked it."


    "Die." Qin Yun''s killing intent turned more boisterous. With a tap of his feet, he turned his body slightly and the sword in his hand naturally produced a second strike.


    It was still Bright Moon Over River!


    The moon-like sword beam lit up once again. This time, the fiendcelestial''s luck ran out. Even though his ax head was huge, the sword beam slashed over from the side, slicing through the fiendcelestial''s neck, sending his head flying.


    "Obliterate." Qin Yun''s sword flash swirled around, producing sword beams that immediately and rapidly drilled right into the open neck. The organs in the headless fiendcelestial''s body were decimated without resistance. Naturally, its heart was also destroyed. The fiendcelestial''s surface also had many wounds appear. His body directly plummeted to the ground, showing no resistance. However, the head that was sent flying continued escaping frantically.


    At the fiendcelestial realm, their lifeforce was extremely exaggerated. Even a severed head could still live on.


    "This, how is this possible?" The other two fiendcelestials were shocked.


    "Even if a domain divine power reduces our strength by half, he shouldn''t have been finished in just two moves. How long has he been cultivating? Could he be at the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm?" The two fiendcelestials found it unbelievable.


    "Die."


    Qin Yun''s divine power, Heaven Earth Millstone, could half the fiendcelestial''s strength, so how could a mere head hope to escape? It was impossible! The Heaven Earth Millstone spun and came pressing down from the clouds, leaving no way for the head to escape anymore.


    Following that, Qin Yun coldly waved his hands, condensing Godfiend powers into sword beams that shot out. This was the power of the Godfiend realm after all. When it entered the fiendcelestial head in the form of sword beams, it immediately ground its interior into mush. The fiendcelestial head fell to the side completely enervated. Its eyes turned dim and died there and then.


    This scene left all the Elders and fiendcelestials on the battlefield astounded!


    "And you two." Qin Yun flew towards the southern wall and with the combination of the two divine powers, Infinite Light and Heaven Earth Millstone, he cast Bright Moon Over River again. In three strikes, he killed another fiendcelestial! The might he brought to the battlefield left everyone astounded. As for Qin Yun, he did not hesitate to charge towards the silver-armored fiendcelestial that was closest to him.


    "Stop!" With two world-shaking bellows, the Blackwater Pond brothers rushed to block his path.


    They were feeling guilt-ridden. After killing Elder Linli, they noticed that Qin Yun was charging towards the southern wall. The both of them had immediately set off but as they had only acted in response, they were slightly slower than Qin Yun. But just that slight difference caused their companions to die. It was simply because Highwarrior Qinyun was too ferocious. He slew a fiendcelestial in two or three strikes, preventing them from saving their companions in time.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun, die!" The Blackwater Pond brothers attacked Qin Yun together as soon as they arrived.

 251 At the Disadvantage

    Chapter 251: At the Disadvantage


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Elder Muqi, quickly escape!" Qin Yun called out with an urgent voice transmission. At the same time, he clashed with the two second Firmament realm Blackwater Pond fiendcelestials.


    "Qinyun, you have to be careful."


    Elder Muqi was shocked that Qin Yun managed to destroy a fiendcelestial in a few moves but he also knew that he would only be a hindrance if he stayed behind. Furthermore, two of the three first-Firmament fiendcelestials that were attacking him previously had fled, while the third was dead. No fiendcelestial was hindering him, so he naturally phased away and shot straight for the eastern wall. The Blackwater Pond brothers did not pursue him either. In their eyes, Qin Yun was the most important prey!


    After all, if they separated, with Qin Yun''s terrifying speed, it was likely that he could escape easily. They needed to focus on surrounding Qin Yun!


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    On the southern wall, Qin Yun and the two Blackwater Pond fiendcelestials engaged in an intense battle. They sent shockwaves in every direction. Although the surrounding mortal warriors and fiendish demons diverted some attention to watch the battle, they could not see much.


    ¡­


    Throughout the battlefield, the Godfiend Elders, the Magus God Temple Lord, Firephoenix, and the many fiendcelestials were paying attention to everything that happened on the southern wall. Just moments ago, Firephoenix Linli was instantly killed by the Blackwater Pond brothers but the young Elder Qinyun suddenly showed his prowess, vanquishing a fiendcelestial in a few strikes.


    All of them were somewhat in a daze.


    "Has Qinyun already reached the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm?"


    "If not, how is he able to kill a fiendcelestial in just a few moves?" The Elders were happy but also astounded. "It hasn''t been long since he broke through to the Godfiend realm. It has only been ten years! He''s only twenty-four this year and he has already reached the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm?"


    Qin Yun''s rate of improvement left the human Elders excited. They even felt that Qin Yun was likely to reach the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm! That would allow him to match the strength of Connate Godfiends!


    And high above Fire Phoenix City.


    The stocky red-scaled fiendcelestial, Wu Siyou, led two companions while they surrounded Firephoenix, preventing her from saving the other Godfiend Elders. However, Qin Yun''s sudden actions left him stunned.


    "Cultivating a domain-type divine power to such a terrifying state and having such horrifying sword skills makes him capable of vanquishing a first-Firmament fiendcelestial in a few strikes. The gap is just too great. He must be a second-Firmament Godfiend." Although Wu Siyou was fighting Firephoenix, he could still divert a bit of attention to watch the battle on the southern wall. He made an instant judgment of Qin Yun''s strength.


    He had to be at the second Firmament.


    Furthermore, it was likely that he had many more tricks up his sleeve. There were just too few humans or fiendish demons in the world that could cast domain-type divine powers.


    Bam!


    Firephoenix and Wu Siyou separated from each other after striking one another with a reverberating blow.


    "Firephoenix," said Wu Siyou as he gritted his teeth. "I was planning on giving you and all of Fire Phoenix City a huge surprise with the successive breakthroughs of the Blackwater Pond brothers, a rare feat for us fiendish demons! I never expected you to be able to hide one of your own so well. A young Elder that has broken through only ten years ago is already at the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm. This is something I would never have expected."


    "There are still many things coming that you didn''t expect." Firephoenix sneered but she was ruminating inwardly.


    When did that kid Highwarrior Qinyun reach the second Firmament? Even I, the mighty Firephoenix, did not know of it?


    He sure hid it well! She was even afraid that he lacked experience and specially requested Youxu to take good care of him. But from the looks of it, his strength was in no way inferior to Youxu''s.


    "I should have a good chat with this kid after the battle is over." Firephoenix thought to herself. "Is it because he doesn''t trust me that he kept his breakthrough a secret? However, if he can attain the second Firmament at the age of twenty-four, there is hope for him to reach the third Firmament in the future!"


    Firephoenix was filled with joy and anticipation.


    ¡­


    "Yun."


    "Elder Yun."


    Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan were paying fervent attention to the matter. When they discovered that Qin Yun had easily slain one fiendcelestial before fighting the Blackwater Pond brothers, they heaved a sigh of relief.


    However, despite the various Godfiend Elders, Magus God Temple Lord, and Firephoenix feeling excited in the beginning, they slowly began to worry.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Qin Yun and the Blackwater Pond brothers were embroiled in an intense battle.


    Within the domain-type divine power, Qin Yun''s sword produced mystical sword strikes but he was clearly disadvantaged fighting the two alone! The Blackwater Pond brothers attacked manically with their sharp claws and saber flashes. Although Qin Yun could occasionally counterattack, he was forced to defend most of the time.


    "Although both of them have just broken through to the second Firmament of the fiendcelestial realm, their bodies are even stronger than that. I''m only equal to them in a one-on-one situation. Fighting them both at once is a little troublesome." Qin Yun had already expected this before he took action.


    Typically, one could eventually attain the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm with the aid of things like a Spiritual Companion Item if they were at the intent realm. Cultivating with a Spiritual Companion Item gradually enhanced one''s realm and, over long periods of time, a first-Firmament Godfiend would gradually attain the intent domain.


    An intent domain represented the average standard of a first-Firmament fiendcelestial with rich combat experience.


    The Paramount realm, with the aid of external forces, allowed one to become a second-Firmament Godfiend!


    If Qin Yun made it his goal to focus on the runic patterns in the Highwarrior Three Volumes and used the Spiritual Companion Item to help him, he would have probably reached the second Firmament of the Godfiend realm by now. But if that happened, he would only have three Paramount realms. That was not what he wanted. He placed all his efforts on his sword training these past ten years, allowing him to attain five Paramount realms.


    The Blackwater Pond brothers were newly promoted second-Firmament fiendcelestials. Their attacks naturally reached the Paramount realm in terms of their realm. But even though they only grasped one Paramount realm, their bodies were those of second-Firmament fiendcelestials. Their fiendcelestial powers were also much stronger. Besides, Qin Yun was dedicated to his cultivation in his sword arts, so his body was still at the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm. This made his foundation weaker.


    Thankfully, he had five Paramount realms and he had cultivated four divine powers! With the various divine powers combined, he was able to bridge the gap that existed due to his weak foundation.


    He could fight them to a draw in a one-on-one battle.


    When fighting two alone¡­ it was very demanding on him!


    Of course, Qin Yun was adept at defense. His sword skills were also very powerful. Just his defense alone was impregnable.


    "He''s totally at a disadvantage!"


    "That''s bad."


    "A perpetual defense is bound to fail. Qinyun is still too young and he lacks experience. If Qinyun fails to defend against the Blackwater Pond brothers'' combined attacks¡­"


    The Elders, Magus God Temple Lord, and Firephoenix were worried.


    "Qinyun, can you keep up your defense?" Firephoenix sent a voice transmission. "If you can''t, I have means of helping you."


    Fire Phoenix City was one of the nine great cities of humanity and Firephoenix was also a Connate Godfiend! She naturally had accumulated a lot of resources. She had only failed to save Firephoenix Linli because he was killed instantly within seconds of the battle''s start. If she was given time, she had many means she could have used to save him. It was only a question of whether she was willing to pay the price.


    "Your Majesty Firephoenix, don''t worry. You should know what''s the most famous divine power of my Highwarrior lineage. They won''t be able to kill me." Qin Yun replied with a voice transmission.


    When Firephoenix heard that, she was immediately delighted. She immediately asked with a voice transmission, "You have even cultivated the divine power Indestructible Body to an extremely high level?"


    "Yes," Qin Yun replied with a voice transmission.


    Firephoenix immediately felt relieved.


    The most famous divine power of the Highwarrior lineage was the Indestructible Body! The Highwarrior lineage sourced from the Dao of the land. As for Qin Yun''s defense Paramount realm, it was considered a part of it. Qin Yun had sought a divine power that complemented defense among all the divine powers in the Godfiend Temple. What he found was an indestructible body that remained unperturbed even against many enemies.


    For instance, Qin Yun''s casting of the Cyclic Sword Flash was best at defense.


    As for the Indestructible Body, it was similarly great at withstanding attacks! Even if he did not block with a weapon and allowed enemies to attack his body, his Indestructible Body would rapidly dissipate the enemy''s might. It was just too difficult to injure an Indestructible Body. Furthermore, Qin Yun''s Indestructible Body divine power had also reached the third Firmament.


    "I can identify the divine powers Qinyun has already used as Infinite Light and Heaven Earth Millstone. Now, he is telling me that he has also cultivated the Indestructible Body to an extremely high realm," Firephoenix ruminated inwardly. "How long has he been cultivating? Yet, he has already cultivated at least three powerful divine powers and all of them have been cultivated to an extremely profound level? In terms of talent, he is absolutely the best in all of Fire Phoenix City''s history."


    ¡­


    Even though his foundation was inferior, Qin Yun was still able to battle with fervent passion.


    "Peng!"


    The elder brother of the Blackwater Pond brothers, E''chen, angrily swiped at Qin Yun''s left arm, leaving wounds on his arm. He could not help but be surprised. "What, he didn''t block?"


    Logically, with Qin Yun''s powerful sword skills, he was able to completely block the attack but he chose not to. When the claw struck his left arm, runic patterns appeared over his entire body as he took a step back. The wound on his left arm bled but the wound rapidly healed. Qin Yun took the opportunity to slash at E''chen''s abdomen with his sword.


    "A first Firmament body coupled with the third Firmament of the Indestructible Body is unable to brush off their attacks."


    "But this feeling of danger only makes it more exciting."


    Qin Yun cast his sword arts heartily. He coupled the four divine powers with his sword arts and did his best in battle. The more he fought, the more intense his killing intent became. A killing intent that had been suppressed for ten years was not that easily wiped away by killing one fiendcelestial.


    "Awesome!"


    "The both of them are also at the Paramount realm and the strength of their attacks isn''t much different from mine. It''s been ten years. It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve had such a good time killing!"

 252 Stepping into the Dao

    Chapter 252: Stepping into the Dao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In this new life, Qin Yun was often annoyed because he never had a suitable opponent!


    The other first Firmament Elders in Fire Phoenix City were too weak. The Connate Godfiend Firephoenix was too strong! Only Elder Firephoenix Youxu was barely suitable but he did not pose a sufficient threat to him. Furthermore, he could not deal killer blows on allies! He was restricted while sparring and even then he could only reveal bits of his strength gradually with age! He had to make his strength appear normal.


    Geniuses also had a genius''s development trajectory.


    For instance, entering the Godfiend realm at the Coming of Age ceremony. Reaching the intent domain realm at fifteen! And then, reaching the Paramount realm at twenty!


    Elder Youxu and company knew Qin Yun was rather strong but Qin Yun had only revealed two divine powers¡ªInfinite Light and Heaven Earth Millstone.


    "I had to hold back in the past."


    "After all, the raising of one''s realm is done one step at a time. I can''t just grasp the Paramount realm before grasping the intent domain realm, can I? Even a fool would realize that there''s a problem. Would I end up being possessed by an Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun reflected. "Four years ago, I revealed that I had reached the Paramount realm, with Infinite Light reaching the third Firmament. Now, even if I reveal another two divine powers, it will only show my genius."


    A genius was like that.


    After entering the Paramount realm, it was normal for them to directly step into the Dao in about four years.


    "Today''s battle is the only time I can use all my strength."


    "I can freely use every move I know. I want both of them dead, and they want me dead." Qin Yun freely attacked with his sword.


    Over the past ten years, he had grasped five Paramount realms. He felt that they could fuse into one but he was just short of achieving it!


    In the past, he had to spend great effort to understand the mysteries of the world through meditation.


    Now, he was engaged in a life-and-death battle. He could imbue all the ideas and teachings he had come up with in his attacks freely! If he made any mistakes in his comprehension? It could be proven in combat! The enemies¡¯ defense and counterattacks would allow him to realize the flaws in his sword skills.


    "Yes."


    "This attack actually has a flaw. It''s not natural enough."


    The more Qin Yun fought, the happier he became.


    He was even willing to risk injury to test out his attacks. The two fiendcelestials were extremely cautious against him as a result.


    ¡­


    "This Highwarrior Qinyun is only twenty-four but he already has strength equivalent to ours. If he were to continue developing his strength, he might one day become a Godfiend at the third Firmament. The both of us must eliminate him when he is still weak. We must make use of today''s opportunity."


    "We can''t kill him when fighting him one on one. But when it''s two against one¡­ there''s no way he can keep fending us off."


    The Blackwater Pond brothers were extremely confident.


    But as they continued engaging in battle, they gradually became more and more dumbfounded.


    Qin Yun''s defense with his sword was perfect! It was impregnable! Occasionally, he would reveal a flaw but he could withstand their attacks with his divine power, Indestructible Body. He could even counter attack each time, causing the both of them to turn flustered.


    "E''chen, what are the both of you doing? Fight with all you''ve got. Kill that Highwarrior Qinyun! Even if our assault on the city fails, we still need to kill him." Wu Siyou sent an urgent voice transmission. He was the leader of the fiendcelestials and he was the only third-Firmament fiendcelestial present! He knew how difficult it was to attain the third Firmament.


    An entity at the third Firmament had worth equivalent to that of a whole city.


    For example, they might be able to decimate Fire Phoenix City but it would be very difficult for them to kill the Connate Godfiend, Firephoenix! Therefore, when Wu Siyou realized Qin Yun''s potential, he turned anxious.


    "As long as you can kill Qinyun, I guarantee that the both of you will each receive three Skyfiend Crystals." Wu Siyou sent a voice transmission again.


    "Don''t worry, the two of us will definitely kill him." The eyes of the Blackwater Pond brothers instantly turned red.


    "Let''s risk it all!"


    "For the Skyfiend Crystals, it''s worth the risk. We will be rid of him even if we have to heavily injure ourselves to do it."


    The Blackwater Pond brothers were prepared to suffer serious injuries. They wanted to smash Qin Yun''s head to pieces even if their stomachs were stabbed by his sword! Despite engaging in combat that seemed to ensure an internecine outcome, they were fiendcelestials after all. They worked together and their second-Firmament fiendcelestial bodies were extremely strong. As long as they complemented each other, it would be very difficult for Qin Yun to really kill them.


    "Oh? They have turned more fervent?"


    "Good, that''s even better. Make it more dangerous and more relentless."


    Instead of being shocked, Qin Yun was overjoyed.


    Due to the elevated threat, Qin Yun had even more intense inspirations while using his sword skills. The various insights he had gained over the past decade were verified in actual combat, allowing new insights to constantly surface.


    The five Paramount realms'' fusion was improving.


    Qin Yun''s sword skills became more unified. A casual slash, slice, tremor, or swipe seemed to contain the simplest implications of the Dao. What seemed extremely simple contained infinite mysticism. The Blackwater Pond brothers'' frenzied attacks, containing their hopes for an internecine outcome, were completely withstood by Qin Yun''s sword. He could easily parry their attacks while also creating opportunities to hurt them.


    The feeling was very magical.


    The five Paramount realms seemed to form a perfect whole. Just like the five elements¡ªMetal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth¡ªcould become whole, Qin Yun''s five Paramount realms¡­ also began to form a complete Sword Dao.


    Slowly¡­


    Qin Yun could not help but immerse himself in his sword arts. He even forgot about his enemies. All Qin Yun did was rely on his innate instinct to fend off the Blackwater Pond brothers'' attacks.


    "Is this a Sword Dao that belongs to me?"


    "Be it Defense, Decimation, Juxtaposition, Infinite, and Paramount Emotions, they are part of my Sword Dao. The lack of any one of them would result in an incomplete Sword Dao," thought Qin Yun. He felt that the intent domain around him was experiencing changes. It rapidly expanded beyond a thousand feet. Even his soul was beginning to transform.


    ¡­


    "What happened?"


    "We risked an internecine outcome to kill him. In the beginning, we were able to injure him but now, we are the ones being injured?"


    The Blackwater Pond brothers exchanged glances and saw the horror in each other.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun did not look right.


    Despite standing there and being assaulted, he would casually use his sword to parry an attack. It looked casual but it seemed like an integral whole. There were no flaws.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun brandished his sword nonchalantly once again. With a flash, the sword quickly sliced through the younger of the Blackwater Pond brothers duo, E''long. His powerful fiendcelestial body had a gaping wound sliced through it that left E''long retreating in shock. He immediately sent a voice transmission. "Brother, his attack was too fast. It''s a lot stronger than before too."


    "What?" E''chen was alarmed too.


    But following that, Qin Yun''s attacks returned to normal.


    Moments later, he struck out with another terrifying strike. It sent E''chen retreating in a wretched manner.


    "What happened?"


    The two fiendcelestial brothers, E''chen and E''long, stopped fighting. They hovered far away and exchanged glances. They felt that something wasn''t right.


    "Two times his attacks were very powerful, but the other attacks were very ordinary." The both of them were extremely worried.


    They kept their distance and remained motionless.


    Qin Yun hovered in his spot without attacking as well. Suddenly, the corners of his mouth curled. Countless sword flashes suffused around him as they spiraled. As for Qin Yun, he seemed to be the one true god with the sword flashes encircling him. At that moment, the luster in Qin Yun''s eyes gradually returned. He extended his hand to gently touch the surrounding sword flashes.


    "Sword Dao. This is my Sword Dao," whispered Qin Yun. "It''s mine, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao."


    "He has stepped into the Dao? Escape!" The red-scaled fiendcelestial, Wu Siyou, saw sword flashes radiating from afar. When he sensed that they were manifestations of the Dao, he anxiously sent a booming voice transmission.


    "Stepped into the Dao?"


    E''chen and E''long had drastic changes in their expressions as they hastily retreated as fast as they could.


    "Do you think the both of you can escape?" Qin Yun''s voice was still resounding when he took a step forward. With a flash of light, he had appeared beside the two fiendcelestials. Following that, he casually swung his sword.


    "So what if you have stepped into the Dao? How much stronger can you be?" E''chen immediately turned and attacked with his claws when he realized there was no way to escape.


    However, Qin Yun''s simple swing of the sword was of varying speed. The claws actually managed to touch Qin Yun''s sword but when the sword''s shadow swept past E''chen''s neck, his head flew off! However, E''chen''s headless body grew a new head from his severed neck. He was panicking as he yelled, "Brother, flee in different directions. We won''t be able to last against him!"

 253 Unable to stop him

    Chapter 253: Unable to stop him


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Although E''chen and E''long had only recently broken through to the second Firmament, they were still second-Firmament fiendcelestials. So no one expected them to fail at resisting Highwarrior Qinyun''s sword.


    "Brother''s body is stronger than mine, yet he can''t even withstand one strike? What Dao did this Highwarrior Qinyun step into?" E''long took a large stride and charged beyond the city walls and headed for the desolate plains.


    "He''s way too strong. It''s definitely not an ordinary Dao." E''chen was panicking as he headed in the opposite direction. He leaped downwards towards the city.


    Although the Paramount realm and an ordinary stepping into the Dao did contain a difference in strength, it was not ridiculously huge. It was even possible for one to survive in a one-on-one battle! In Qin Yun''s homeworld, it was difficult for him to kill existences at the intent domain realm who had powerful life-preserving methods just after he attained the Paramount realm. By the same logic, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery''s Sacred Reverend Dharvana might have stepped into the Dao, but it was still very difficult for him to kill a Paramount realm.


    Just a difference of one realm made killing the other party very difficult.


    However, E''chen had his head lopped off without even being capable of putting up a resistance. Although he grew a new head, the feeling of being steamrolled only served to accentuate the differences between them.


    "Before he stepped into the Dao, he was about my equal. I could repress him when joining forces with Brother. But now, after he stepped into the Dao, I can''t even block one strike of his¡­ Such a terrifying Dao means that he has a high chance of attaining the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm." As E''chen escaped, he looked back at the battle behind him.


    He immediately noticed that Qin Yun was not pursuing him. Instead, he was pursuing E''long who was escaping outside of the city.


    "Brother!" E''chen turned anxious but he also felt a little thankful.


    If his brother were to die in battle, that might buy some time for him to escape.


    ¡­


    The Blackwater Pond brothers fled in different directions and Qin Yun instantly made a decision. His feet tapped in the air as he transformed into a stream of light that pursued E''long as he fled out of the city. "E''long, you won''t escape!"


    "What, he''s chasing me?" E''long panicked as he was escaping.


    "Isn''t it because you are easier to kill?" Qin Yun''s eyes suffused a coldness. His Infinite Light had easily gone from the third Firmament to the fifth Firmament. He was a lot faster than before.


    It was pointless for E''long to panic.


    He was indeed the weakest link.


    Of the Blackwater Pond brothers, the younger brother E''long was more adept in the way of the saber. His elder brother E''chen had a stronger body that resembled a Dharma treasure; therefore he would use his claws in battle. Killing E''chen would be a lot more troublesome. For example, E''chen was able to grow another head immediately after being beheaded. Typical fiendcelestials did not have such powerful bodies.


    "He''s coming!" The panicking E''long had no choice but to turn around and strike. His saber beam was incisive and extremely fast.


    However, Qin Yun easily discovered the numerous flaws in the saber strike.


    "Lone Yin does not lead to birth and solitary Yang does not allow growth. His saber strike is overly ruthless but that only makes it crude." After Qin Yun stepped into the Dao, his five Paramount realms fused into one. He was no longer plagued with questions. When he saw his opponent''s strike, he naturally compared it to his own. The comparison just revealed too many flaws that made it incomparable.


    The gap was just too great.


    "Schwing." Qin Yun easily waved his sword, producing a sword flash that was actually quite slow. But when it came into contact with the saber flash, it leveraged on its strength, accelerating itself. It struck E''long''s abdomen and, like slicing through tofu, split his body in two.


    "This sword art¡­" Although E''long felt despair in the face of death, he also understood how much more brilliant his opponent''s sword art was.


    He was like a child flailing a saber in front of a brilliant swordsman who could take him down simply by tapping him with a tree branch.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as large amounts of Sword Qi appeared out of thin air. Following that, it sliced E''long into two and bored through his body, grinding his heart and other organs, before moving upwards to reduce his head''s interior into mush.


    "He was similar to me previously." E''long''s two halves fell to the ground as he murmured. Following that, the light in his eyes faded away and he transformed into a gigantic lizard.


    The fiendcelestial E''long was dead!


    This was also the first fiendcelestial at the second Firmament realm that perished in the battle.


    "Similar? Before I entered this world, I had already grasped three Paramount realms. Up to now, you only had one. The difference in accumulated experience is just too disparate." After Qin Yun slew E''long, he waved his hands and swept E''long''s weapons and treasures into his Cosmic Bag. Following that, he transformed into a beam of light and headed for the city in pursuit of E''chen.


    ¡­


    The battle situation completely changed.


    It was inconceivable that both second-Firmament fiendcelestials were repressed despite joining forces. In a blink of an eye, E''long was killed! Qin Yun was now pursuing E''chen who had already escaped far away.


    "Yun."


    Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan, who diverted their attention to watch the battle, were feeling extremely excited and happy.


    "Well done."


    "Elder Qinyun sure is formidable." The clansmen fighting on the city walls were excited as well.


    Everyone was rejoicing. The situation was terrible before but the sudden mighty appearance of Qin Yun, with his illustrious strength, and his stepping into the Dao during a life-and-death battle, changed everything! He proved his strength by taking the life of a second-Firmament fiendcelestial.


    "Wu Siyou, save me! Save me!" E''chen sent an anxious voice transmission as he fled.


    The third-Firmament fiendcelestial, Wu Siyou, who was fighting Firephoenix, turned anxious. He did not care about E''chen''s life but he was concerned about Qin Yun. "This Highwarrior Qinyun is only twenty-four this year. He''s already this fearsome after just stepping into the Dao. With a Spiritual Companion Item, I believe he will achieve the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm in a few decades. With such talent, he might¡­ even be the second Skygod of humanity. If that happens, we as fiendish demons are doomed."


    "Kanqi, Yumo. I''ll do my best to deal with Firephoenix. The both of you should go deal with Qinyun and kill him at all costs. If you can kill Qinyun, it will be a great meritorious deed. The Empyrean Lord will definitely reward you handsomely," said Wu Siyou with a voice transmission.


    "Alright."


    Kanqi and Yumo were similarly second-Firmament fiendcelestials.


    However, since they were chosen to aid Wu Siyou in his battle against Firephoenix, they were not like the Blackwater Pond brothers who had only recently broken through. They had already broken through thousands of years ago and had even stepped into the Dao. Unfortunately, they were very ordinary Dao, so they were still stuck in the second Firmament of the Fiendcelestial realm.


    According to the demarcation of the realms, Godfiends at the first Firmament usually were at the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm and the intent domain realm.


    Godfiends at the second Firmament were usually at the Paramount realm with a number having stepped into the Dao.


    Godfiends at the third Firmament had to step into the Dao! Furthermore, the Dao they comprehended had to be sufficiently strong. With the aid of a Spiritual Companion Item and other external help, there was a chance of someone entering this realm. As for Connate Godfiends, they were born into this realm.


    It was similar for the fiendcelestials.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light that pursued E''chen. He was extremely fast and, as he had just broken through, he was also working hard at understanding his divine powers. In order to pursue his enemy, he had first raised Infinite Light to the fifth Firmament. Now, his Heaven Earth Millstone was constantly being refined and perfected in his mind. Nearly instantly, it had reached the fifth Firmament.


    He commanded with a thought.


    Two large cascading clouds appeared, with a blue cloud above and an earth-yellow cloud below. They encompassed the surrounding five kilometers, enveloping half the city. The might was terrifying and abnormal. However, all the human mortals were unaffected. In fact, they were even protected! As for E''chen, his speed was affected by it.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun." Kanqi and Yumo descended rapidly.


    Although Firephoenix had charged downwards in a form of a fiery light, Wu Siyou roared as well, transforming into a fiery-red fiend dragon to hold her back. Even though he was unable to completely stop Firephoenix, he was able to slow her down.


    The two fiendcelestials did not hesitate to immediately attack Qin Yun.


    "I''m saved."


    E''chen, who managed to go beyond Fire Phoenix City''s walls, heaved a sigh of relief.


    Bam! Bam!


    What ensued was the terrifying might of a blinding sword flash, two gigantic axes, and a staff.


    Qin Yun had managed to barge through the two fiendcelestials'' obstruction as he continued his pursuit of the fleeing E''chen.


    "He actually managed to break through our blockade."


    "His strength is even higher than mine."


    Kanqi and Yumo were shocked.


    Although they were second-Firmament fiendcelestials and held a foundational advantage, Qin Yun had upgraded his Infinite Light, Heaven Earth Millstone, and Snow Wave to the fifth Firmament in a short span of time. The divine power Snow Wave was one of the four divine powers that Qin Yun had grasped. It corresponded to the Decimation Paramount realm. Kanqi and Yumo may have had their own divine powers but they only cultivated in two or three, and they were at best at the fourth Firmament.


    The advantage of his high-level divine power and fearsome sword arts allowed Qin Yun to easily shake them off.


    Although the both of them cooperated well and Qin Yun was unable to kill the two of them, it was not difficult for him to shake them off with his Infinite Light.


    "What?" Wu Siyou, who was battling Firephoenix at a high altitude, turned dull. "The both of you were actually unable to stop him!?"


    "Wu Siyou, he is stronger than us one-on-one! His divine power is too formidable. His sword arts are more terrifying. If he enters seclusion for a decade or two, with external help, he will definitely reach the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm." Kanqi and Yumo pursued Qin Yun with all their might as they sent voice transmissions. However, their speeds were clearly slower than Qin Yun''s.


    ''"Hahaha¡­"


    Firephoenix was originally planning on helping Qin Yun but she no longer felt the urgency. She watched with a smile as Qin Yun pursed E''chen in the distance.


    "Retreat! Everyone, retreat!" Wu Siyou yelled with resounding might.

 254 Massive Victory

    Chapter 254: Massive Victory


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The fiendcelestials on the eastern, western, and northern city walls also knew that the war''s objective would not be met. They did not hesitate to retreat.


    "Join forces with me to deal with him." E''chen rushed to the northern wall, in the hopes of joining the other fiendcelestials on the northern wall. However, the four fiendcelestials that were there had already begun fleeing frantically. They were all first-Firmament fiendcelestials and did not dare get involved.


    "The audacity of you four!" E''chen''s eyes were filled with cruel ferocity. Behind him, Qin Yun was rapidly catching up to him.


    Whoosh.


    E''chen and Qin Yun crossed the city walls one after another and entered the desolate plains. However, Qin Yun was clearly faster.


    "You won''t escape!"


    With sword in hand, Qin Yun chased up to him in a blink of an eye.


    "He''s so fast." E''chen turned anxious. Worse of all, the other fiendcelestials did not dare involve themselves in this matter. Kanqi and Yumo were in pursuit but they were much slower than Qin Yun.


    "Die." Once he was in close proximity, Yi Yun slashed out.


    E''chen turned around immediately as he lashed out his tail with formidable strength. The scaled armor on the tail was extremely formidable but, with a flash from Qin Yun''s sword beam, the tail was instantly sliced off.


    "His sword arts are overwhelming." E''chen was panicking. He swiped both his sharp claws, one aimed at Qin Yun''s head, while the other hurled straight towards Qin Yun''s chest.


    "Swoosh."


    The blue and yellow clouds came crashing together, causing E''chen''s strength to be reduced to seventy percent.


    With the divine power, Infinite Light, Qin Yun''s speed was astounding. With a whoosh, he circled E''chen in the form of an illusionary stream while striking constantly! E''chen''s body was constantly lacerated, suffering continuous damage. For example, just as his arm was cleaved off, it rapidly grew back. But the speed at which it grew was not as fast as Qin Yun''s strikes.


    In a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had delivered hundreds of strikes. The hundreds of sword shadows lingered on and continued lacerating E''chen''s body, dicing it up into countless pieces. Even his heart, brain, and other vital organs were pulverized. Following that, the blue and yellow clouds ground the remnant parts of his body to dust. All that was left of him were two sharp claws that remained intact.


    "Let''s see if you can still revive after that." Qin Yun''s Dao domain allowed him to perceive his surroundings with extremely sharp senses. E''chen''s claws no longer had any life in them.


    E''chen was dead.


    The two Blackwater Pond fiendcelestials had died under Qin Yun''s blade.


    Qin Yun looked up and saw Kanqi and Yumo arrive in front of him but they stopped at a safe distance.


    Qin Yun leisurely extended his hand, making a cloth bag float up. He threw the two claws in it.


    "Hmph!"


    "Let''s go!"


    Kanqi and Yumo gave Qin Yun a cold look before transforming into streams of light that departed with the other retreating fiendcelestials.


    The both of them knew that even if they joined forces, they could not do anything to Highwarrior Qinyun.


    "Swoosh."


    The fiery-red fiend dragon, Wu Siyou, was flying east when he joined up with Kanqi and Yumo. Firephoenix did not continue chasing them. In terms of strength, she was only slightly better than Wu Siyou! It was difficult for them to stop one another from retreating. At best, they could cause an interference. Only by joining forces with Kanqi and Yumo was Wu Siyou able to hold Firephoenix back before.


    "Qinyun." Firephoenix stood in midair as she smiled at Qin Yun. "You made a breakthrough and stepped into the Dao at a critical juncture. You even killed three fiendcelestials. Two of them were even second-Firmament fiendcelestials. This battle was won mostly thanks to you."


    "I should be thanking you, Your Majesty," said Qin Yun. "I only had the opportunity to finish off the Blackwater Pond brothers because the three most powerful fiendcelestials were busy fighting you. Besides, they only reached the second Firmament recently."


    The Blackwater Pond brothers, E''chen and E''long, were clearly much weaker than Kanqi and Yumo.


    "They killed Linli sheerly by surprising him. The breakthrough you had was similarly unexpected. Their losses were far greater." Firephoenix nodded. "It''s just unfortunate for Linli."


    Although Firephoenix felt some grief, she quickly recovered from it.


    Too many clansmen had died over the years.


    ¡­


    "Retreat!"


    "Retreat!"


    There were fiendish demon leaders shouting out commands from various spots around Fire Phoenix City''s four walls.


    Immediately, the dense horde of fiendish demons began receding like the tide. They had surrounded Fire Phoenix City but were too weak under the magus array¡¯s suppression. It caused them to suffer terrible losses. Of course, the number of fiendish demons at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm was a still a hundred times more than humans. The fiendish demons could afford the great losses they suffered.


    "They are retreating! Finally!" Firephoenix Yuqing heaved a sigh of relief. Her sword and body were covered in blood.


    "We won!"


    "Victory!"


    The clansmen on the four walls heaved a sigh of relief. They felt a wave of emotions as the fiendish demon horde disappeared into the horizon. Even ants could bite an elephant to death with sufficient numbers. Although the magus array suppressed the fiendish demons, a prolonged war would still result in many clansmen dying.


    They did not enjoy fighting like this. They only fought to survive.


    "They are retreating! The fiendish demons are retreating!"


    At Magus God Temple, the black-haired man that was controlling the magus array, as well as the other magi, heaved a sigh of relief while also feeling delighted.


    Among them, Cailan saw Firephoenix and Qin Yun flying towards the eastern wall from afar.


    "Elder Yun." Cailan immediately flew in the direction of the eastern wall.


    ******


    After the fiendish demons got out of the magus array''s range, they began to ride clouds. The black clouds rolled away as they rapidly departed.


    And in the eastern front, there was a group of fiendcelestials standing together on a black cloud.


    They came fully confident with twenty fiendcelestials.


    But now, only seventeen were left!


    However, Qin Yun and company did not dare pursue any further. Previously, every Elder in Fire Phoenix City had the magus array augmenting them, allowing them to keep fighting with full cofidence. Without it, Elders at the first Firmament would be severely weakened.


    "We actually lost."


    "Even the two from Blackwater Pond perished there."


    "Who knew that this newly promoted Godfiend Elder, Highwarrior Qinyun, would be that terrifying? He even stepped into the Dao at the most critical juncture."


    The fiendcelestials were feeling indignant.


    "Not only has he stepped into the Dao." Kanqi said in a deep voice. "Highwarrior Qinyun''s Dao is clearly very powerful. Yumo and I couldn''t even stop him. With the Dao he grasps, it won''t take long for the humans to have another Godfiend at the third Firmament."


    Yumo added, "Other than the Connate Godfiends, there are only two humans that have managed to cultivate to the third Firmament since this world¡¯s birth. From the looks of it, there will be three soon. And this third one¡­ is too young! Just too young!"


    "He''s only twenty-four."


    Wu Siyou was extremely somber as well. "There might be a chance for him to become a Skygod in the future. The humans currently only have one Skygod. We have suffered many losses in the numerous wars so if there''s a second Skygod, the situation will reverse. Currently, we from the fiendish demons are the aggressors but if a second Skygod were to appear, we will probably be the ones being hunted."


    "Whoosh."


    Wu Siyou waved his hand, causing the void in front of him to distort. It connected to a distant spot where a horrifying existence dwelled.


    A faint phantom appeared in the distorted void.


    "Empyrean Lord," said Wu Siyou politely.


    "Wu Siyou, is your attack on Fire Phoenix City over?" asked the figure.


    "Fire Phoenix City has produced a new Godfiend Elder named Highwarrior Qinyun. While we were fighting him, he stepped into the Dao and produced an inconceivable strength. Once he stepped into the Dao, even Kanqi and Yumo were unable to obstruct him. It might not take long for him to reach the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm. He is presently only twenty-four. I''m afraid that the humans will produce a second Skygod!" Wu Siyou said politely. Immediately, the surrounding fiendcelestials fell silent.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun?" muttered the phantom.


    "Empyrean Lord, we have to think of means to get rid of him as soon as possible," added Wu Siyou immediately.


    ******


    On the Fire Phoenix City''s eastern wall.


    Firephoenix, Qin Yun, Firephoenix Youxu, and Elder Muqi were all standing there. The other Elders were also flying over from the other city walls. They landed beside the group and looked into the distant east. The fiendish demons had retreated and the distant fiendcelestials were also rapidly fleeing before disappearing into the horizon.


    "Victory!"


    "Victory!"


    The clansmen on the city walls raised their weapons in unison as they cheered loudly. They rejoiced at the sight of their victory.


    Qin Yun, as well as the other Elders, smiled.


    "Yun." Firephoenix Yuqing rushed over and grabbed Qin Yun''s arm.


    "Yuqing?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "Yun, you were so awesome. I saw everything. You killed those terrifying fiendcelestials." The wound on Firephoenix Yuqing''s face was gradually healing. There were still blood stains on her armor for she too had engaged in intense battles.


    Qin Yun looked at Firephoenix Yuqing''s wound. Having spent time together for ten years, he had seen her grow up from the age of fourteen. In his heart, she was family.


    "Be careful in the future," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s nothing. Just a small wound." Firephoenix Yuqing did not seem to care.


    Qin Yun scanned the four walls and sighed inwardly. "Although we ended up victorious, we still had dozens of clansmen die. Furthermore, who knows when such a war will end? I remember that in the history of my homeworld, the Connate Godfiends and the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s wars continued even after the Dao Ancestor imparted the Dao. And this world resembles the ancient era of my homeworld. This war will probably continue on for a very long time."


    "Just like Yuqing and the rest, they have to participate in battles every time. None of them can avoid combat."


    Just this time, the Elders lost Firephoenix Linli and dozens of other clansmen perished. That was a very common outcome. Furthermore, it was only because Qin Yun had eliminated two newly promoted second-Firmament fiendcelestials and one first-Firmament fiendcelestial that the humans clinched massive victory in this battle!


    "Elder Yun." Cailan ran over to Qin Yun''s side as well. She was favored by Qin Yun''s parents after all.


    The two women stood on each side of Qin Yun.


    "Qinyun," said Elder Muqi with a smile. "It won''t take long for you to reach the third Firmament. In the future, you can establish your own Godfiend family and get married! I think you need to find time to marry both Yuqing and Cailan."


    "Hahaha, starting a Godfiend family does require you to reproduce," joked the surrounding Elders.


    The clansmen on the city walls were laughing as well. Not far away, Qin Yun''s father, Highwarrior Ambition, who had participated in the war, chuckled too. Sending the enemy scurrying, surviving the war, and the likelihood of producing a second third-Firmament Godfiend in Fire Phoenix City were matters that deserved the clansmen''s joy.


    However, Qin Yun felt his head ache.


    Cailan and Firephoenix Yuqing''s blushed as they each stood beside Qin Yun.

 255 Skygod

    Chapter 255: Skygod


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    That evening, the fifteen Godfiend family clans and magi were brought to the Hall of Heroes in Godfiend Temple under the lead of Firephoenix, the Godfiend Temple Elders, and the Magus God Temple Lord.


    It was dark, and in front of the Hall of Heroes was a burning cauldron that spewed flames high into the air.


    "In this battle, Elder Firephoenix Linli died in combat." In front of the crowd, Firephoenix looked at the Hall of Heroes and said stoically, "Another twenty-nine clansmen died in combat. They will enter the Hall of Heroes and be honored together with all the clansmen who had died in the past by us and our descendants. Be it a thousand years or ten thousand years, they will forever be commemorated."


    All the clansmen fell silent.


    Following that, Firephoenix took the first step into the Hall of Heroes. Following her was Qin Yun and the seven Godfiend Temple Elders, the Magus God Temple Lord, and then the rest of the clansmen.


    "Hall of Heroes." Qin Yun walked in and saw the towering and magnificent Hall of Heroes. The walls were three hundred feet tall and there were carvings of humans on them. There were tiny, dense pictorial carvings at the bottom and each pictorial carving held a few tiny words that made up a biography. And the pictorial engraving above was a lot bigger. The text describing it was a lot more involved as well.


    Qin Yun looked over.


    There were thirty-two engravings higher up. All of them were Godfiend Temple Elders.


    "Thirty-two of them, together with the present seven. Fire Phoenix City has only had thirty-nine entities at the Godfiend realm since its inception. However, the rest of them have already died in combat," thought Qin Yun. He saw at a glance the last and also the newest engraving¡ª Firephoenix Linli.


    Firephoenix Linli:


    Father, Firephoenix Chi.


    Mother, Yanniang.


    Was extremely strong at a young age. Skilled at wielding dual hammers. Entered the third Firmament of the Mortal realm at age twelve. His courage stood above his peers and he would be the first to charge into battle against fiendish demons.


    At the age of eighteen, he married Liru and had two children¡­


    At the age of twenty-three¡­


    At the age of thirty-nine¡­


    At the age of fifty-one, he was invincible among Fire Phoenix City mortals with his dual hammers! ¡­


    At the age of sixty-two, he took in a disciple¡­


    At the age of eighty, he reached the Godfiend realm¡­


    At the age of seven hundred and sixty-five, he was jointly killed by the Blackwater Pond brothers, E''chen and E''long, in battle.


    It was his biography.


    Qin Yun read quietly.


    He then looked at the tiny, dense figures. All of them were Godfiend descendants. Very few of them were magi. The wall of the Hall of Heroes was very tall and there were naturally many empty spaces left behind.


    The Hall of Heroes was silent. Even if anyone wanted to discuss something, they would do so through a voice transmission. It was as though speaking out aloud would be a disrespect to these sacrificed heroes.


    These people were the heroes of humanity.


    In every one of the nine great cities of humanity, there was a Godfiend Temple. And each Godfiend Temple had a Hall of Heroes.


    "Why? Why am I increasingly convinced that this is a true world?"


    "Is the dreaming of a hundred years a dream? Or is it reality?"


    Qin Yun looked at the carvings on the wall and felt his heart jolt. "In my homeworld, there were many people who sacrificed themselves for the human race in ancient times. Are they still being honored? Given offerings? I have never heard of it, at least."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly sensed something as he saw a stocky man with disheveled hair appear beside him. The man was silently looking at the wall but the surrounding clansmen did not seem to notice his existence. They would even occasionally walk past him or even collide with him but to them it was as though they had gone through thin air.


    "More of our clansmen have died in combat again," muttered the stocky man.


    Qin Yun looked at him and found that he resembled an existence recorded in the dossiers. He could not help but be alarmed. "You are Sui¡­"


    The stocky man looked at Qin Yun. "I''m Suigu."


    "Greetings Skygod Suigu, I am Highwarrior Qinyun." Qin Yun immediately bowed. However, in the eyes of the surrounding clansmen, Qin Yun had already vanished. Furthermore, they didn''t even find it odd that he had disappeared.


    "I heard about you from Firephoenix so I rushed here. I have already chatted with Firephoenix at her place and have spoken to the other Connate Godfiends. We have decided on what lies ahead for you," said the stocky man as he smiled at Qin Yun. "Let''s go, we can talk about it in detail outside."


    "Yes." Qin Yun followed behind.


    Skygod Suigu.


    After Qin Yun became a Godfiend, he also learned of the humans'' present strength.


    The magi, in general, were still weaker. Very few attained the Magus God realm. Among the nine cities, any city would only have one or two people at the Magus God realm. In comparison, Godfiends were a lot stronger. Among the Connate Godfiends, there was one called Suigu. He was the first Connate Godfiend to be born and he was also the strongest Connate Godfiend.


    He lamented over the state of the universe and pitied all of mankind. He was the first sentient being born from this world and he had an innate curiosity about everything. He studied fire, lightning, mountains, rocks, mud, and soil¡­


    He guided the human race and was the leader of all the Connate Godfiends.


    He also eventually broke through to the Skygod realm, and he was the only Skygod born from the human race.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun followed Suigu and walked out. The group of people in the Hall of Heroes, including the Elders, finally noticed Qin Yun and a stocky man walk out.


    "That is? Suigu?"


    Mortals were prevented from seeing him but the Elders could.


    "Skygod Suigu is meeting Qinyun? That''s right, Qinyun isn''t far from reaching the third Firmament," thought the Elders.


    ¡­


    Firephoenix had already been waiting in a quiet garden at the Godfiend Temple. Suigu led Qin Yun there.


    "Brother Suigu, Qinyun, have a seat," said Firephoenix with a smile.


    Suigu and Qin Yun casually chose a smooth boulder to sit on. It was very suitable for a seat.


    Firephoenix said with a smile, "Qinyun, the moment Brother Suigu learned about your deeds, he rushed here as fast as he could. He is mostly curious about you. Secondly, and more importantly, he does not wish for any accidents to happen! After all, the fiendcelestials and the Other Realm Fiendcelestial behind them will probably try to assassinate you. You have yet to break through to the third Firmament so there is still danger of you being assassinated. If you were to break through to the third Firmament, it would be nearly impossible to assassinate you. Therefore, the assassination attempts will likely happen in the next ten years. It could happen anytime."


    "Don''t worry." Suigu smiled at Qin Yun. "With me in Fire Phoenix City, they have no chance of succeeding."


    Qin Yun said immediately, "Thank you, Skygod Suigu."


    "The bloodline of us Connate Godfiends has been spread down among humans for generations," Suigu said wistfully. "We can be considered ancestors of the human race so naturally, we will do our best to protect our descendants. However, how the final battle will end and who will become the owner of this world is hard to tell. As of now, we humans are at a disadvantage. We can only defend while relying on the city''s magus array!"


    Qin Yun and Firephoenix nodded.


    They were indeed weaker!


    At the level of mortals, the fiendish demons held the absolute advantage. They were a hundredfold stronger than humans.


    In the Godfiend realm, both parties ended up in their present state only with the aid of the Connate Godfiends.


    "Therefore, the birth of every powerful Godfiend becomes more important." Suigu looked at Qin Yun. "Every third-Firmament Godfiend we can create is for the betterment of humanity. If we can produce another three or four, we humans will be able to match the fiendish demons."


    Firephoenix nodded as well. "Qin Yun, if you can become the second Skygod, with you joining forces with Brother Suigu, we humans would have two Skygods and the situation would be very different. We humans will hold the absolute advantage."


    "Second Skygod?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Why? Do you lack the confidence?" Suigu said. "You are only twenty-four and you are capable of reaching the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm. With your potential, there is definite hope of you becoming a second Skygod! In addition, it has only been about ten thousand years since the birth of this world. It would not be considered too difficult for you to become a Skygod. If it were another fifty or hundred thousand years later, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies would get increasingly thin. When it gets too thin, it will become harder to become a Skygod. The aid given by the world would only weaken and the requirement towards the Dao would only elevate."


    "With time, it will become harder to become a Skygod."


    "And by my estimates, it might be much much more difficult to have a first-Firmament Godfiend in the future, much less a Skygod."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Yes.


    It would become more difficult. Back in his homeworld, the corresponding first-Firmament Godfiends were the most ordinary immortals, fiendcelestials, or arhats. The requirements to reach those realms were ludicrous. Those who stepped into a Dao that was of lower grade would have their growth stunted. As for Skygods? Indeed, it was many times more difficult than in ancient times.


    "The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were rich in ancient times. All sorts of ancient mutates were born and the world even directly gave birth to the Connate Godfiends. They were born at the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm," thought Qin Yun. "Just the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm allows one to enter the Godfiend realm. It''s a lot easier than in my homeworld."


    "You are still young and your potential is immense too," said Suigu. "You have to become a Skygod early, planting yourself as a foundation for humanity. I have already prepared a series of cultivation plans for you. I have only one requirement¡ªbecome a Skygod within ten thousand years!"


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    I will ''awaken from my dream'' after spending fifty years in this world! How can I take ten thousand years to slowly cultivate?

 256 Fifty Years Up

    Chapter 256: Fifty Years Up


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sou!


    Qin Yun was flying in the form of a stream of light above the desolate plains.


    In a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had spent almost fifty years in this world. He did not look much different from his twenty-four-year-old self. However, his aura was a lot deeper and more serene.


    "I''ve almost reached Fire Phoenix City." As Qin Yun flew, he felt conflicted. "In a blink of an eye, I have already spent fifty years in this world. The day of my awakening is getting close. I can sense it."


    There was an invisible force that was pushing at him gradually.


    He had a feeling that at the final instant, that force would awaken him from his dream!


    "There''s only half a month left."


    "I''ll wake from this dream in half a month."


    Qin Yun had taken part in this world for fifty years. Therefore, he had deep feelings for it.


    Soon.


    A massive city appeared in the distance. It was none other than Fire Phoenix City. Qin Yun swooped down in the form of a light stream.


    There were clansmen standing guard on Fire Phoenix City''s city walls. They were at the third Firmament of the Mortal realm and naturally had extraordinary eyesight. They had already seen the descending stream of light from afar and identified it as Qin Yun.


    "It''s Elder Qinyun."


    "Elder Qinyun is back."


    The clansmen on the walls revealed looks of joy. Highwarrior Qinyun was the pride of Fire Phoenix City! All members of the fifteen Godfiend family clans thought highly of him. After all, Highwarrior Qinyun was a third-Firmament Godfiend realm existence. He was the most illustrious Godfiend throughout all of humanity.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun flew directly to his residence. With his status, he naturally had a manor that was all his own.


    His father, Highwarrior Ambition, and his mother, Qiyu, along with Cailan and Firephoenix Yuqing, were living there too. Of course, there were also many servants.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun landed inside the manor.


    "Elder." The servants in the manor showed extreme respect when they saw him.


    Qin Yun nodded. He carefully studied every detail of the manor. Having spent fifty years in this world, it became his home.


    "In another half a month, I''ll be leaving." Qin Yun walked around the manor and caressed the wooden columns along the corridors while peering at a tiny lake in the manor. He was somewhat unwilling to part with everything.


    "Yun."


    "Elder Yun."


    Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan rushed over.


    Both of them had matured greatly and the two of them were as close as true sisters. The moment they saw Qin Yun, they ran over and threw themselves into Qin Yun''s embrace. Qin Yun also smiled as he extended his arms to hug them.


    "Yun, you went to Shellheaven City for two years," said Firephoenix Yuqing. "Sister Cailan and I have been waiting all this time for you. You have finally returned."


    Cailan could not help but say, "It was indeed a very long two years."


    Qin Yun looked at the two women. Having spent fifty years with them, he saw them as no different from family!


    Their feelings for each other had been built up from spending so much time together. The two women were now no less meaningful to him than to his younger sister who had passed away.


    As for romantic feelings, Qin Yun truly did not have any such thoughts.


    All he had was familial feelings for them!


    But fifty years? Qin Yun was only in his thirties back in his homeworld. Although he had a powerful Dao heart, fifty years of interaction had made Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan the most important family members in his life.


    "I really do not want to waste Yuqing and Cailan''s time. I have tried twice to make them leave me and find someone else but they went crazy. Cailan nearly committed suicide. Are the girls from ancient periods that unyielding?" thought Qin Yun. "Since I couldn¡¯t get them to leave, the only thing to do was delay the matter. I gave the excuse that now is the period for me to raise my strength. I would only marry after cultivating for a few decades¡­ I''ve tried not to hurt them as much as possible."


    "Now, with the fifty years almost up, there''s only half a month left. I''ll awaken from my dream in half a month."


    He felt guilt-ridden.


    Qin Yun treated Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan very well. He treated them gently and had even promised them that they would be married in ten years.


    However, he would be awakening from his dream in half a month''s time.


    "Qinyun is back?"


    The Highwarrior couple rushed over when they heard the news from their servants. They saw Qin Yun hugging Cailan and Firephoenix Yuqing from afar.


    The couple could not help but smile when they saw that.


    "My son might be in the process of enhancing his strength so distractions are not allowed. But what if it''s marriage? Can''t he cultivate after getting married? Even if he doesn''t get married, he can still have a few babies but he''s just in no hurry. It''s useless no matter what I say," Highwarrior Ambition said helplessly.


    "Alright, our son is a third-Firmament Godfiend. He has a long lifespan, so what''s the rush?" Qiyu said. "It seems to me that our son has the mindfulness and determination to dedicate himself to cultivating. If not, how could he have achieved so much!? Besides, he has already given his word that he would marry Yuqing and Cailan in another ten years."


    "Yea." Highwarrior Ambition smiled with a nod. "Another ten years. It''s soon enough. I''m waiting for our son to create a Godfiend family."


    "Yuqing and Cailin will probably not be able to have children that easily. He has to marry some ordinary human girls too," said Qiyu.


    "I''ll have a proper chat with Qinyun in ten years," said Highwarrior Ambition.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun spent time with his family for ten days. During these ten days, he treated his parents, Firephoenix Yuqing, and Cailan especially well. He also immersed the two women in extreme bliss.


    Ten days later.


    Qin Yun went to the Godfiend Temple.


    "Elder Qinyun." A few Elders in Godfiend Temple came to welcome him.


    "Elder Qinyun, are you preparing to enter seclusion again?"


    The group asked jokingly.


    Qin Yun nodded. "It''s not seclusion, just some trivial matters." With that said, he entered the Godfiend Temple''s underground space.


    However, the other Elders were speculating.


    "He cultivated for two years in Shellheaven and now he''s here in the Fire Phoenix Nest a few days after he returned. He''s really hardworking."


    "Elder Qinyun''s strength is indeed unfathomable. If I were to guess, he really has the possibility of becoming the second Skygod of humanity."


    "That''s right. Skygod Suigu has arranged for all nine cities of humanity to help Elder Qinyun as much as they can¡­ With Elder Qinyun''s excellent talent and perception, there''s a chance of him becoming the second Skygod to exist in ten thousand years. When that happens, we humans will have the absolute advantage against the fiendish demons."


    "I really look forward to that day. Then, our clansmen won¡¯t have to spend their days hiding away in the city."


    Be it the Elders of Fire Phoenix City or the Godfiend Temple Elders from the other eight cities, or even Connate Godfiends, they had great expectations of Qin Yun.


    ******


    In an underground space in Fire Phoenix City''s Godfiend Temple.


    In the middle of a lake filled with liquid condensed from Heaven Earth energies, there was a chamber. This area was the Fire Phoenix Nest. Qin Yun had entered the chamber that belonged to him.


    The door to the chamber closed.


    Other than the chamber''s owner, only the Connate Godfiend Firephoenix, who controlled Fire Phoenix City''s Godfiend Temple, could enter.


    "Fire Phoenix Nest." Qin Yun looked at the items placed in the chamber. There were things like the Highwarrior''s Spiritual Companion Item, the Stone of the Earth. and other treasures that were all very precious.


    "Over the past five decades, humanity has spared no expense to help me."


    "Even Skygod Suigu opened the long-sealed Lotus Flower Cave for ten years to allow me to cultivate."


    "All the Connate Godfiends have helped me with all they had."


    "Skygod Suigu has drawn up a cultivation plan that lasts more than a thousand years. However, every time I use a resource of humanity, I feel like I owe them even more," thought Qin Yun. "If this really was a dream, I could ignore that! But what if this is a real world?"


    "It''s been fifty years. I have lived in this world for so long that I''m very convinced it¡¯s a real world."


    "If this is a real world, I have let down the humans of this world! I have used so much of their resources, allowing my cultivation level to increase greatly."


    "I owe Yuqing and Cailan¡­ If I were to disappear, they would need time to forget me."


    "I owe my parents¡­"


    "There''s also the expectations the clansmen and Elders have of me¡­ What they anticipate will only end up in a puff of smoke."


    Qin Yun sat on a gigantic Immortal Crystal and took out a scroll from his Cosmic Bag. He used a brush with a tip that suffused golden light. He began writing on the scroll. "Regardless, I have to leave a letter for Yuqing and Cailan." The letter was filled with rich emotions. Qin Yun was unwilling to part with them after spending fifty years with them. He really could not bear to part with them!


    He finished writing one scroll.


    Qin Yun wrote one letter to his parents and another one to Firephoenix.


    Then, he left the letters in the chamber and took out numerous treasures from his Cosmic Bag.


    "I''m about to wake up from my dream. I shall leave these treasures here. These three scrolls should be left here too. When I awaken, they will realize that I''m dead! Firephoenix will also come to this chamber and naturally find all that I''ve left here." Qin Yun looked at the treasures placed to the side.


    "There''s another five days before I awake from my dream."


    "Since I will soon awaken from this dream, I should do something for them before I leave!" Qin Yun thought to himself. "I hope this it is enough to compensate them."

 257 Qin Yuns Goal

    Chapter 257: Qin Yun''s Goal


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun felt conflicted when he looked at the treasures and three scrolls he left in the chamber. "I wonder what Yuqing and the rest will think when they see these letters. Forget it! I shouldn''t think about it anymore. Perhaps this might really just be a dream? Maybe this world will simply fade away once I wake up from my dream."


    Qin Yun turned and left.


    Rumble. The door closed.


    The next time the door opened would likely be when Firephoenix came to open it.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun appeared in the clouds above Fire Phoenix City. He looked down and took one last gaze at the area. With his eyesight, he could naturally see his manor where Highwarrior Ambition and his wife were. He also saw Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan there.


    The Highwarrior couple spent their days happily. They were naturally very pleased that they had such a powerful son and were still looking forward to the day when Qin Yun would make a family of his own, a new Godfiend family line.


    Firephoenix and Cailan were also waiting for the day when they could finally marry Qin Yun.


    "Sister Yuqing, did Elder Yun say when he would be back when he went out earlier this morning?" Cailan asked.


    "He didn''t elaborate. All he said was that he would be back in a few days." Firephoenix Yuqing said with a smile. "Since he said it would only take a few days, it shouldn''t be long. He would inform us ahead of time if he was entering prolonged seclusion, just like in the past."


    "Okay. I just learned how to cook a new dish. I''m waiting for Elder Yun to return so that I can give him a taste of it." Cailan smiled so much that her eyes narrowed into slits. Her eyes held a foxy charm that was filled with love.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun felt as though a knife had stabbed into his heart when he saw the family that he had grown to love in the manor a distance. How could he not have deep feelings for them after spending fifty years with them? Now that they were to part ways, Qin Yun felt a little overcome by his feelings.


    "I will wake up from this dream after all."


    "I''m sorry."


    "My parents and clansmen in this world. Her Majesty Firephoenix, Skygod Suigu, as well as Cailan and Yuqing¡­ Sorry. In the end, I¡¯m just a transient guest here." With that, Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light that rapidly left Fire Phoenix City.


    ******


    Even though he was destined to awaken from this dream, Qin Yun still wanted to do his best to do something big for humanity, as a form of compensation.


    Four days later, it was now the last day before he awakened.


    There was a massive mountain range about six thousand kilometers away from Fire Phoenix City named Prestige Fiend Mountain.


    "Prestige Fiend Mountain." From the desolate plains far away, Qin Yun was looking at Prestige Fiend Mountain as it emanated fiendish gases. "The fiendish demons have two Fiend Nests. They are said to be areas containing rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energy sources that are used by the Other Realm Fiendcelestials as bases. They spared no expense when creating it, using a lot of treasures in the process! The Fiend Nests are even more fascinating than Fire Phoenix Nest or any of the other Nests. The aid they provide in cultivation is greater, allowing the fiendish demons to constantly nurture and produce fiendcelestials."


    "The fiendish demons do not have Spiritual Companion Items but as long as they attain the Heaven Earth intent realm, they can still be nurtured into fiendcelestials! It shows how powerful the Fiend Nests are."


    Qin Yun was acutely aware of this point.


    "The fiendish demons have a total of two Fiend Nests. Prestige Fiend Mountain is one of them. If I can destroy one Fiend Nest, it will be equivalent to destroying one of the foundational pillars of the fiendish demons." Qin Yun had been gathering intelligence over the years. And in the past four days, he had been spying on Prestige Fiend Mountain from afar. He knew very well how difficult it was to destroy a Fiend Nest.


    In the comparison between humans and fiendish demons, the humans held an advantage¡ªthey had a Skygod.


    The fiendish demons¡¯ strongest would be the third-Firmament fiendcelestials. And it was rumored that there were even more powerful Other Realm Skyfiends backing them. They were existences that were equal to Skygods but they were unable to descend upon this world. If Other Realm Skygods were capable of easily entering this world, humanity would have long fallen.


    "Although the fiendish demons'' strongest forces are the third-Firmament fiendcelestials, their numbers speak volumes. Furthermore, they have these two Nests. Every Nest has numerous third-Firmament fiendcelestials residing in it at all times. Prestige Fiend Mountain has a total of fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials living there. Nearly half of the fiendish demons'' strongest combat forces in this world are concentrated here in order to protect the Fiend Nest." Qin Yun knew this very well.


    How could one destroy a Fiend Nest?


    If Skygod Suigu threw away concern for his life and forcibly stormed in, there was a definite chance that he could destroy the Fiend Nest before he perished.


    However, the fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials would join forces! In addition, the Fiend Nests were sources of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies which meant that the Nests were filled with many Immortal Crystals and other items. Since the fiendcelestials used these spots as a base, they made it so the arrays they constructed could self-destruct! As such, Suigu would be severely injured to the point of death. A concerted effort by the fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials would further guarantee Suigu''s doom.


    In order to destroy a Fiend Nest, Suigu would have to sacrifice his life.


    To exchange the destruction of a Fiend Nest with a Skygod?


    It wasn''t worth it!


    As for Godfiends at the third Firmament realm? The chances of them destroying the Fiend Nest were a lot lower. It was highly possible that they would only end up dead before even entering the Fiend Nest! Those that had an infinitesimal chance of destroying the Fiend Nest were either those that had reached the third Firmament or Connate Godfiends. Anyone else would have to be one of the rare handfuls of geniuses of humanity like Qin Yun. Who would be willing to sacrifice their lives?


    "Destroying the Fiend Nest is very difficult but this is a dream after all. I have to give it a try."


    "Besides, I have prepared for this day for a very long time," thought Qin Yun.


    "Now, the first step is to try my best to approach the Fiend Nest. Only when I''m close enough can I show myself and storm right in," thought Qin Yun. "If I am discovered early, I''ll be surrounded by the third-Firmament fiendcelestials. I would not even be able to enter the Fiend Nest before I die in combat."


    "It will all depend on this divine power! I have already cultivated this divine power to the sixth Firmament!"


    Qin Yun looked at the sun.


    The sun was setting in the west. As the sun''s rays cast down on the desolate plain''s vegetation, they produced many shadows.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun cast his divine power and silently fused his body into the shadows on the ground.


    His entire being vanished as he literally sank into the shadows. It was a flawless concealment to the naked eye. He also didn¡¯t emit any aura.


    This was the divine power¡ªShadow Manifestation! Sixth Firmament!


    This divine power could allow Godfiends to slink into the shadows in the early stages. However, the deeper one cultivated in it, the shadow would appear to become another world in itself. As the saying goes, to see a world in a grain of sand, the shadow of everything in the world also became a world itself. It also allowed one to truly hide within and totally conceal their aura. Qin Yun long knew of the day he would awaken. Therefore, while he was browsing through the various divine powers in the Godfiend Temple, he discovered the best divine power for concealing his aura.


    After fifty years of cultivation, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao had accumulated to a deeper, more profound state. It now contained nine Paramount realms! One of the Paramount realms he fused into his Dao was Shadowlike. It corresponded to the divine power Shadow Manifestation. Skygod Suigu and the other Connate Godfiends had provided him many cultivation treasures to aid him. A lot of them were spent on cultivating Shadow Manifestation. In addition, there was a corresponding Sword Dao, so he finally cultivated it to the perfect sixth Firmament.


    With that, he had reached the limit of the divine power.


    "I hope I won''t be detected."


    "If I were to be detected in the periphery, that would be tragic. I wouldn''t even touch the Fiend Nest before dying," thought Qin Yun.


    Under the sunlight, all the vegetation had shadows!


    Qin Yun fused into the shadows and rapidly proceeded towards Prestige Fiend Mountain. There was no motion visible to the naked eye, nor was there even a sliver of an aura. This was the impressive result of cultivating the divine power to the sixth Firmament.


    ¡­


    Prestige Fiend Mountain was mainly a place for fiendcelestials to live in. Many of them were first or second-Firmament fiendcelestials. There were also the fifteen most powerful third-Firmament fiendcelestials. They each chose one of the cave abodes that were scattered across Prestige Fiend Mountain to stay in. They were situated in the middle of the mountain, on the mountainside, or at the mountain peak. Every fiendcelestial would set up array formations for security.


    Of course, the Fiend Nest array formation in the middle of Prestige Fiend Mountain was the strongest.


    In terms of array formation capabilities?


    The fiendish demons were better than humans in that aspect due to the teachings of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial! Humans mainly used magus arrays that were extremely crude.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun silently proceeded as he gradually approached Prestige Fiend Mountain.


    Other than the fiendcelestials on Prestige Fiend Mountain, there were also servants. However, it was rather quiet as fiendcelestials apparently did not like having fiendish demons crowding around them.


    A faint mist emanated the surroundings of Prestige Fiend Mountain. It was a kind of fiendish aura. It would repel humans if they entered, causing them to be quickly discovered.


    "Swoosh." Qin Yun''s shadow rapidly sneaked forward as he entered the range of the faint mist.


    "This mist can''t seem to detect me."


    Qin Yun came confidently after all.


    Whoosh¡ª


    Qin Yun constantly advanced towards Prestige Fiend Mountain as a shadow. Slowly, he entered the fiendcelestials'' living quarters. One had to know that the closer to the Fiend Nest one got, the tighter the security became. The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials all stayed around the Fiend Nest.

 258 Exposed

    Chapter 258: Exposed


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The array formations in Prestige Fiend Mountain were set up with the help of Other Realm Fiendcelestials. The fiendcelestials had also established their own array formations in their respective cave abodes. Including the first and second-Firmament fiendcelestials, Prestige Fiend Mountain held more than a hundred fiendcelestials. This naturally resulted in many array formations. This place was also considered one of the two most dangerous fiendish demon domains in the world.


    Qin Yun''s figure proceeded forward and, although he was very confident, he continued to walk a winding path. He tried his best to avoid the fiendcelestials'' cave abodes.


    "Why are all of you so slow? Hurry up! Quickly send the alcohol to the fiendcelestials. If you are slow, you might suffer the wrath of the fiendcelestials." A monkey fiendish demon immediately reprimanded when he saw two flying fiendish demons a distance away.


    "We''re coming. We just bought more alcohol."


    "We have been going very fast."


    The two fiendish demons each carried a huge wine jar as they flew quickly. Qin Yun was silently advancing in the shadows beside them.


    However, these ordinary fiendish demons were unable to detect him at all. Even weaker fiendcelestials would not detect him, much less these nobodies! After cultivating Shadow Manifestation¡ªhumanity''s best divine power for concealing one''s aura¡ªto the highest sixth Firmament, Qin Yun would definitely be a perfect assassin.


    ¡­


    He constantly advanced and crossed all sorts of topographical features. Finally, he slowly approached the most important area of Prestige Fiend Mountain¡ªFiend Nest.


    "Almost there."


    Qin Yun was carefully watching what was ahead. "I''m no longer far from the Fiend Nest. This Shadow Manifestation is indeed impressive. I have yet to be discovered. However, what follows next is the most dangerous juncture. The third-Firmament fiendcelestials'' caves are up ahead. After that is the entrance to the Fiend Nest."


    He carefully proceeded.


    Although the third-Firmament fiendcelestial cave abodes had powerful array formations as well, they were set up by the fiendcelestials themselves. They also paid a rather low price to set them up, so they definitely didn¡¯t get the full effect from them. Qin Yun carefully snuck pass the cave abodes silently and was not discovered.


    "Almost there. Almost."


    Qin Yun looked at the Fiend Nest''s entrance.


    It was a deep and quiet cave. Standing by the entrance was a black-armored ax-wielding fiendcelestial! He was taking a nap but he emanated his intent domain. However, an intent domain was unable to detect Qin Yun, for he now stood atop the Connate Godfiends and the third-Firmament fiendcelestials when it came to concealment. However¡ª


    The Fiend Nest was ultimately the most important location to the fiendish demons. It was the core reason why they could persist in battle with the humans for so long!


    The Fiend Nests were built by Other Realm Fiendcelestials after all, so they were naturally set up with extremely powerful array formations.


    "Hum¨C"


    Outside the Fiend Nest, there were invisible ripples emanating outwards. The fluctuations so perfectly fused into Heaven and Earth powers that even Qin Yun could not sense them.


    As Qin Yun gradually approached, he finally entered the range of the invisible fluctuations.


    When a wave swept past the shadow that Qin Yun was hiding in, an evil and strange energy permeated the shadow, pulling out a human shadow from within with grinding noises. Finally, the shadow manifested itself as a black-armored human, Highwarrior Qinyun.


    As for the black-armored fiendcelestial who was guarding at the entrance, he was always very relaxed when it came to that responsibility. "Prestige Fiend Mountain is fraught with danger. Ordinary Godfiend Elders would probably be discovered the moment they entered Prestige Fiend Mountain. As for the third-Firmament Godfiends, the chance of them destroying the Fiend Nest is similarly low. They would be sending themselves to their deaths without any hopes of succeeding. No one is that dumb."


    That''s right.


    Humanity had very few third-Firmament Godfiends. Indeed, they would not send one on a suicide mission! Although he was responsible for guarding the entrance, he always felt it was a very easy job.


    But this time, there was really a human Godfiend there.


    "Oh?" When the evil and strange energy ejected Qin Yun from the shadows, the black-armored fiendcelestial opened his eyes because he detected something. He instantly saw a human being drawn out from the shadows. This gave him a fright!


    "Intruder!" His eyes widened into two round circles.


    How was it possible?


    It was unprecedented ever since the Fiend Nests were built! No human had ever managed to reach a Fiend Nest''s entrance!


    But yet, a human was standing there right in front of him. Moreover, the entire Fiend Nest''s array formation was beginning to inform the various fiendcelestials. And even more surprisingly, the black-armored fiendcelestial recognized the human instantly¡­


    Highwarrior Qinyun! The third human that cultivated from the Mortal realm to the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm! He was considered the most talented human in history and there was a high chance of him becoming a second Skygod! The fiendish demons had also made numerous attempts to assassinate him but the humans spared no expense to protect this peerless genius. With Skygod Suigu secretly protecting him from early on, the fiendish demons tried every trick they had but to no avail.


    "Why would Highwarrior Qinyun be so reckless as to come here to the Fiend Nest?" The black-armored fiendcelestial was alarmed. Although he was shocked and puzzled, he used the array formation to send a voice transmission. "A human is infiltrating the Fiend Nest!"


    "A human is infiltrating the Fiend Nest!"


    His voice began to instantly resound through all of Prestige Fiend Mountain with the aid of the array formation.


    "I''m exposed."


    When he was expelled from the shadows because of the evil and strange energy, Qin Yun''s expression changed. He saw the black-armored fiendcelestial by the Fiend Nest entrance staring at him with widened eyes. He heard the rumbling words ''a human is infiltrating the Fiend Nest'' begin to resound. When the ''a'' boomed, Qin Yun had already transformed into a stream of light as he charged towards the Fiend Nest''s entrance. His eyes were filled with killing intent. "Kill!"


    Since he was exposed, the only thing he could do was forcefully forge a way in!


    Thankfully, he was already very close to the entrance. There was a chance of him successfully barging in.


    "Hmph." The black-armored fiendcelestial grunted angrily. Two breaths spewed out from his nostrils as he increased in size, reaching a hundred feet. His hairy arms held a humongous ax as he took on a combative stance.


    When Qin Yun charged at him, he cleaved the ax with all his strength. "Get lost!"


    He was also a second-Firmament fiendcelestial with rich experience.


    However, Qin Yun delivered a blindingly fast strike. At the instant he approached, he had cast his divine power, Heaven Earth Millstone. A blue and a yellow cloud appeared, enveloping half a kilometer around him. Some of it even entered the Fiend Nest''s interior. The two clouds spun and repressed. The sudden appearance of the sixth Firmament Heaven Earth Millstone immediately affected the black-armored fiendcelestial''s strength.


    "Whoosh."


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes at the critical moment before he struck out. A dreamlike sword flash lit up.


    Unlike Connate Godfiends, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was slowly grasped by him during cultivation. For Connate Godfiends, such as Firephoenix and Highwarrior, they were born into the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm. They were extremely impressive when it came to understanding their own domains as they were born with the knowledge! They were good at what they were born to do, but the speed at which they grasped other domains was very slow.


    Qin Yun, who slowly cultivated, was different. He was like a sponge that gradually extracted nutrients from everything that surrounded him. His Sword Dao was infused with insights from different domains, so he was naturally good at various divine powers.


    For example, if he were to be compared with Firephoenix, she was naturally much stronger in the ''fire'' aspect. However, when it came to an aggregated whole, Qin Yun was better.


    And that was apparent now!


    Qin Yun knew too many divine powers. His domain-type divine power activated, catching his enemy off guard.


    "No good!" The black-armored fiendcelestial felt his ax was rapidly decelerate under the clouds'' repression. Immediately, his expression changed as he abandoned the ax decisively. He kicked out as his leg expanded to a thousand feet, forming a sort of gigantic pillar that stood in the way of Qin Yun''s strike.


    "Rip!"


    A dreamlike sword flash sliced over, severing the fiendcelestial''s pillar-like leg from the kneecap.


    Simultaneously, Qin Yun had already charged forward to continue his assault.


    "I can''t block him." The black-armored fiendcelestial panicked. At that moment, the rumbling statement in the sky, ''a human is infiltrating the Fiend Nest,'' had reached ''infiltrating.''


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Qin Yun arrived in front of the black-armored fiendcelestial and swiped with his sword. Like a peacock flaunting its tail, numerous sword flashes lit up instantly.


    The black-armored fiendcelestial was lamenting his circumstances! Although his palms expanded to resemble two massive shields, Qin Yun''s sword flash coursed through the fissures in the armor, penetrating his body and slicing it apart. Qin Yun also sensed layers of resistance during the attack but his sword flash were still able to slice through it without interruption because of how profound it was. "His Fiendbody has been cultivated to a strong state."


    Boom!


    As his innards had been sliced through in many spots, even his heart had been struck. The black-armored fiendcelestial¡¯s one-legged body fell to the ground. At that moment, the resounding ''a human is infiltrating the Fiend Nest'' had just finished!


    Qin Yun did not continue his assault but instead took the opportunity to charge straight into the Fiend Nest.


    Even though he was fast, the fiendcelestials in the surrounding cave abodes had rushed out with all they had. The nearest third-Firmament fiendcelestials¡ªa total of fifteen of them¡ªhad charged out too. When they came out, they saw Qin Yun penetrate his sword flashes into the black-armored fiendcelestial''s body like a peacock flaunting its tail, as well as the scene of the black-armored fiendcelestial falling to the ground.


    "It''s Highwarrior Qinyun." The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials were shocked and furious.


    "Kill him!"


    "Kill!"

 259 Fiend Nest Blood Lotus

    Chapter 259: Fiend Nest Blood Lotus


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The fifteen third Firmament fiendcelestials were both anxious and furious. They had rushed to the entrance as quickly as possible but Qin Yun had easily taken down the black-armored fiendcelestial sentry.


    "Charge!" Qin Yun''s eyes were red as he cast his domain-type divine power to repress his surroundings while casting Infinite Light. He charged towards the Fiend Nest at full speed.


    "Qi!"


    Immediately, some of the fiendcelestials shouted this.


    Qi was one of the fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials. He was also the most skilled in archery. With the speed Qin Yun could achieve with Infinite Light, only Qi''s archery could deal with him in time.


    "Let me get him."


    The tall and rugged Qi held a gigantic bow as tall as him. With an angry bellow, his face turned red as he instantly pulled open the bow to its fullest extent. Fiendcelestial powers surged into it, ultimately gathering on the arrow point, giving it immense might.


    "Windthunder Arrow! Kill!" Qi instantly used a forbidden attack, one that burned thirty percent of his blood. He would only use it when his life was on the line. He was using it as his first strike now because time was just too tight.


    "Boom!"


    Violent winds and lightning swirled around the arrow, exuding infinite potency that seemed to come from a flood dragon that controlled wind and thunder. It shot straight towards Qin Yun, who was already inside the Fiend Nest''s passageway.


    Qin Yun put all of his effort in to speeding away but the arrow was just too fast. It could even bend to keep up its pursuit.


    "It''s that fiendcelestial Qi''s Windthunder Arrow. It''s a terrifying archery art that ranks second in the world. Only the Connate Godfiend Hunterwind can match it." Qin Yun knew his enemies¡¯ skills. As he flew in the form of a stream of light, he turned immediately, brandishing his sword to defend.


    "Boom!!!"


    How brilliant was Qin Yun''s sword art? It could completely fend off the arrow.


    The arrow itself was easily blocked but the might contained within was transmitted. The arrow reduced to smithereens upon impact. Qin Yun''s sword flash blocked it off but he felt a terrifying power penetrate his body. Thankfully, Qin Yun had long cultivated the divine power, Indestructible Body, preventing irreparable damage. But even so, he felt his lifeblood boiling as his organs ruptured.


    "Pfft." Qin Yun could not help but spew a mouthful of blood. However, he took advantage of this additional push to fly backward. He did not reduce his speed as he continued charging deep into the Fiend Nest.


    "He has the Indestructible Body divine power. My arrow only managed to hurt him some." Qi''s aura had weakened.


    "Pursue him! The Fiend Nest isn''t that easily destroyed. As long as we don''t waste time, we can kill him before he destroys the Fiend Nest."


    "This Highwarrior Qinyun is extremely talented. Why would he attempt to destroy the Fiend Nest without any regard for his life? Even if he succeeds in destroying it, he''s definitely doomed. Why is he on a suicide mission?"


    "Who cares? Finish him off first."


    "Quick, quick, quick."


    All the third-Firmament fiendcelestials used every trick at their disposal as they charged into the Fiend Nest and pursued Qin Yun.


    While they engaged in the pursuit, many of them were perplexed. The humans had placed their hopes on the extremely talented Highwarrior Qinyun to become the second Skygod. So why was he here on a suicide mission? Of course, everyone also knew that the breakthrough from third-Firmament Godfiend to Skygod was extremely difficult. Only Skygod Suigu had ever succeeded! Even if humanity had placed their hopes on Highwarrior Qinyun, it only meant that he had a chance. His attempt to actually become a Skygod could go either way.


    But even so, there was no reason for him to send himself to his death!


    He was young and very promising. Humans had not reached the stage of going for broke. Why would he come on a suicide mission?


    "Regardless, we absolutely cannot let him destroy the Fiend Nest."


    "The two Fiend Nests are the core of our fiendish demons. The number of fiendcelestials can be so high only because of them. If one of our Fiend Nests is destroyed by him¡­ the Empyrean Lord will definitely be infuriated. Our battle with humans would probably shift to us being at a hufe disadvantage. The situation will only turn worse."


    "There are fifteen of us here. It will be a disgrace if he can destroy the Fiend Nest."


    The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials were moving as fast as they could.


    ¡­


    The Fiend Nest was located in the middle of the mountain. It was a huge space, much bigger than underground space in Fire Phoenix City''s Godfiend Temple.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun streaked across the Fiend Nest in a form of light.


    There were fiendish demons patrolling the Fiend Nest and there were four fiendcelestials perennially stationed there. However, the strongest one was only at the second Firmament.


    "Stop him!"


    "A human!"


    "Hold him back!"


    There was chaos inside the Fiend Nest the moment he arrived. Four fiendcelestials tried to stop him but three of them were at the first Firmament realm and only one of them was at the second-Firmament realm! They were too weak. They even deliberately slowed down when they went forward to stop Qin Yun. It was a dereliction of duty if they didn''t try! Therefore, they went slowly to obstruct him because they did not want to risk their lives. They preferred life to dishonor.


    Shoo!


    Qin Yun easily streaked past them with Infinite Light, pulling away from the obstructing fiendcelestials.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun." However, one of the fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials was faster than Qin Yun.


    He moved like a bolt of lightning.


    Whoosh!


    The lightning-fast fiendcelestial tore through the Fiend Nest''s interior and moved much faster than the other fourteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials. He quickly closed the gap with Qin Yun.


    "It''s him. Thunder Abyss. He''s adept at lightning and is extremely fast." Qin Yun continued escaping as he cast the domain-type divine power, Heaven Earth Millstone. The two clouds spun and crushed the surroundings. When Thunder Abyss entered the clouds, his speed slowed down but he was still much faster than Qin Yun. The gap between them rapidly decreased.


    Qin Yun turned anxious as he flew with all his might.


    He could see with his naked eye that the core of the Fiend Nest was just ahead. In the middle of a lake filled with liquid condensed from the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies was a gigantic blood-colored lotus flower. It had seven black leaves! The Blood Lotus''s petals were completely closed up like it was a bud. It was the core of the Fiend Nest.


    "All the Immortal Crystals that stem from the Heaven and Earth spiritual energy source are within that Blood Lotus flower! This Blood Lotus flower is built on the foundation of immense amounts of Immortal Crystals and numerous treasures by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial. The cultivation that fiendcelestials enjoy in here is more potent than in cultivation lands like the Godfiend''s Fire Phoenix Nest." Qin Yun knew this. "As long as I destroy this Blood Lotus flower, I will cut off their ability to cultivate."


    Qin Yun''s eyes burned as he stared intently at the distant Blood Lotus flower.


    "Die!"


    Angry roars sounded.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Thunder Abyss was only about a few hundred feet away. He held one short spear in each hand before he threw them one after another at Qin Yun. They transformed into bolts of lightning upon release.


    "Thunder Abyss Spear?" Qin Yun turned his body slightly, brandishing his sword in the process. The sword''s revolution streaked out a semicircle, diverting the two spears away. "This tiny trick of yours won''t be able to do a thing to me."


    All the third-Firmament fiendcelestials were famous. The skills they were adept in had long been recorded after the numerous wars they had with the humans. Qin Yun therefore remembered what he was up against.


    Before clashing, Thunder Abyss would habitually throw out his short spears! It was best if he could slay his enemy with that but even if it didn''t, it could at least harm his enemy.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    With Qin Yun''s speed impeded by his having to stop to block the spears, Thunder Abyss finally arrived in front of Qin Yun.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun, since you dare to come to Prestige Fiend Mountain, die!" Thunder Abyss held a hammer in each hand and brandished them. Lightning zapped out from the hammers with redoubtable might.


    Qin Yun continued doing his best to charge forward. He brandished his sword to barely block the attack as he flew.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    He flew as he blocked.


    "Don''t think of leaving." Thunder Abyss was also giving his all to stop Qin Yun.


    "Peng!"


    Qin Yun willingly received the smite with his body, causing him to spit out a mouthful of blood. But he made use of the transferred momentum to fly towards the Blood Lotus flower.


    "He''s rushing towards the Blood Lotus flower at all costs. He even dares to use his body to meet the smite of my Lightning Hammer! If he had not mastered the Indestructible Body, he would have been smashed to death by that strike." Thunder Abyss was indignant. Qin Yun was a third-Firmament Godfiend and he had cultivated the Indestructible Body to the sixth Firmament. No one at the same level could kill him in a strike or two.


    Even Qi''s forbidden archery art only managed to injure him. Of course, if Qin Yun had used his body to withstand the arrow, he might have lost half his life even if he survived. He had used his sword arts to fend it off, but the remaining impact injured him to the point that he spat blood.


    "Furthermore, his sword arts are very powerful. He deliberately let me strike his body with my hammer." Thunder Abyss turned extremely anxious.


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light at the cost of being injured. Finally, he arrived beside the Blood Lotus flower.


    "Stop!"


    The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials were pursuing behind him as they shouted immediately.


    "Begone!" At the instant Qin Yun arrived in front of the Blood Lotus flower, he cleaved down at it with a lightning-fast strike. The gigantic Blood Lotus flower seemed to be filled with vibrant vitality. Its petals were pliable and tough. Although the cleave managed to barely rip through the petals, the petals rapidly healed.

 260 Dream Awakening. Departure

    Chapter 260: Dream Awakening. Departure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "This Fiend Nest Blood Lotus cannot be destroyed by a weak attack." Qin Yun looked at the faint mark he had just left behind. On top of that, the Blood Lotus was healing itself. He immediately understood. "I have to channel my strength to cast my strongest attack."


    "Divine power¡ªSnow Wave! Sixth Firmament!"


    "Hua!"


    The sixth-Firmament divine power Snow Wave made Qin Yun''s body suffuse snow-white blasts of air. It was the same with his sword. The white gases contained a terrifying penetrative and destructive power.


    This divine power corresponded to the Decimation Paramount realm. During Qin Yun''s years of Godfiend cultivation, he had cultivated this divine power to the perfect sixth Firmament. To be more detailed, it could even be said that Snow Wave was the first divine power to reach the sixth Firmament among all the divine powers he cultivated in. He cultivated it faster than even his Indestructible Body. This was because in this new life, Qin Yun''s body contained a strong bloodlust. It constantly pushed him to have a strong urge to kill.


    The intense killing intent was chronic.


    It made Qin Yun''s Sword Dao have a ruthless inclination. Therefore, in the decimation aspect, the divine power Snow Wave naturally reached the sixth Firmament first.


    "The strongest sword skill, Samsara!"


    Qin Yun regulated his emotions before producing this strike.


    It was different from what it was before he stepped into the Dao.


    Before he stepped into the Dao, Qin Yun could typically only cast Samsara twice! Casting it a third time put a such a burden his soul that it could even damage the core of his soul. Back when he repressed the fiendcelestial inside the jade bottle, he had relied on the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills to recover the fatigue of his soul. Only then did Qin Yun manage to finally succeed in sealing an Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    But now, Qin Yun infused his Paramount Emotions into his attack. When he finally stepped into the Dao and grasped Sword Dao, he gradually realized that a strike powered by Paramount Emotions was powerful because of the intense vital emotions and rich feelings that were infused into it. The emotions made the attack become more natural. The strength would approach the Heavenly Dao in an unspeakable manner! It was naturally powerful. But with the increase of his realms, passion raised his strength in diminishing amounts.


    For example, Qin Yun had grasped a Sword Dao that belonged to him! His ordinary attacks were extremely powerful. Even the strongest attack, Samsara, when infused with his life and emotions, was only enhanced by about 100%. Comparatively, the enervation of his soul was lessened. Now, he could cast Samsara nine times under normal circumstances.


    Swoosh.


    As Qin Yun dodged Thunder Abyss, he cast Samsara.


    "Pulverize!" After channeling his emotions, the thought of his wife back in his homeworld and how he had separated from her for five decades made Qin Yun''s yearning for Yi Xiao turn even stronger. Under these heavy emotions, a sword beam with the white blasts of air flashed, cleaving at the Blood Lotus flower in front of him.


    Rip!


    A large swath of the closed Blood Lotus flower ripped directly open as the tear stretched deep into the flower bud. One could catch a glimpse of a fiendcelestial cultivating within the Blood Lotus flower through the gash.


    "What!? He nearly destroyed the Blood Lotus flower in one strike. Won''t he be able to enter it if he delivers another four strikes or so?"


    "The first strike was only ordinary in strength. Why is this strike so much stronger?"


    "Stop him!"


    "We cannot let him attack again!"


    The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials who were rushing over at full speed were feeling a little relieved when they saw Qin Yun''s first attack. However, after Qin Yun channeled his emotions to use the divine power Snow Wave and Samsara, the strength he delivered tightened their hearts. They began to turn distraught.


    Swoosh.


    Thunder Abyss brandished his two hammers that were crackling with lightning bolts and attacked at full strength. "Highwarrior Qinyun! Don''t you dare think of destroying the Fiend Nest! Die!"


    "Boom!"


    Among the third-Firmament fiendcelestials who were still catching up, Qi pulled his bow and shot an arrow. It was his strongest killer move, Windthunder Arrow. The arrow instantly arrived in front of Qin Yun with the powers of wind and thunder. It was very fast and very powerful. Qin Yun''s expression changed. The only attack he didn''t dare to take with his body was Qi''s arrow.


    "Peng!" Qin Yun immediately used his sword to defend and disperse the full force of the impact.


    When he was struck, he was sent slamming into the Blood Lotus flower. The shocks made him spew a mouthful of blood.


    "Die!" Thunder Abyss took the opportunity to strike down at Qin Yun''s head with his hammer. Qin Yun failed to dodge in time but barely managed to lower his body. It struck his shoulder, causing it to depress with a loud crack. The bones within shattered and his skin lacerated, spewing blood out. However, his Indestructible Body was extremely powerful. His wound rapidly healed at a discernible speed.


    Qin Yun dodged in flashes as he switched hands. His left hand wielded his sword as he cast Samsara once again on the Red Lotus flower bud.


    "I can''t concern myself with them anymore. I have to destroy this Blood Lotus flower with all I¡¯ve got. If not, I''ll face certain doom once the group of third-Firmament fiendcelestials surrounds me. I will not have a chance to destroy it when that happens." Qin Yun ignored Thunder Abyss and repeatedly cast Samsara at the Blood Lotus flower petals.


    At Qin Yun''s level, his attacks were very fast. It only took a split second to deliver seven or eight strikes.


    At that moment, only Thunder Abyss was hindering him. Qi needed to gather strength before he could cast another Windthunder Arrow. The other third-Firmament fiendcelestials were still too slow.


    "Die!" Thunder Abyss brandished his dual axes and unleashed a frenetic barrage of attacks.


    "Boom¡ª"


    Another sword appeared in Qin Yun''s hand.


    One sword was used to cast Samsara while the other was used to block Thunder Abyss. His body still took frequent blows from Thunder Abyss but his Indestructible Body was extremely tough. The surrounding blue and earth-yellow clouds were spinning crazily to cause a hindrance.


    It just took a blink of an eye.


    Although Qin Yun''s body was covered in wounds, including facial wounds from being struck by a hammer several times, he still managed to cast six Samsaras. He forcibly tore through the Blood Lotus flower''s petals, carving a path forward. Qin Yun immediately dashed into the petal hole.


    "No!" Thunder Abyss followed in panic.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh¡­


    The other third-Firmament fiendcelestials went as fast as they could,charging in one after another.


    ¡­


    There was a fiendcelestial cultivating in seclusion inside the Fiend Nest''s Blood Lotus flower. However, he was only a first-Firmament fiendcelestial. He turned his head and saw a bloodied Highwarrior Qinyun charging at him.


    "No good!" The fiendcelestial immediately tried to stop him.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun completely ignored him for he did not wish to be delayed any further. He used all his strength and cast Samsara to smite the middle of the Red Lotus flower pistil.


    "This is all I can do."


    "I will destroy it at all costs!" Qin Yun''s eyes were already red. His body was covered in snow-white gases as his killing intent reached a pinnacle before he sent a sword flash cleaving straight at the pistil.


    "Stop!" Thunder Abyss roared as he slammed his hammer down on Qin Yun.


    "Stop!" Another fiendcelestial threw the spear in his hand in panic. It went straight through Qin Yun''s chest.


    Qin Yun fell onto the flower pistil but he laughed.


    Due to it taking the full force of the strike, a huge slit tore through the flower pistil. It was beginning to extend in every direction. Clearly, compared to the tough flower petals, the flower pistil was much weaker. Qin Yun''s full strength caused the pistil to crumble.


    "Boom!" Qin Yun cast the domain-type divine power, Heaven Earth Millstone. The blue and earth-yellow clouds ground a large number of Immortal Crystals beneath the flower pistil to dust. As that happened, rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies dissipated. Under the might of the Heaven Earth Millstone, all the Immortal Crystals were instantly pulverized. Due to the high concentration of spiritual energies, the surrounding area began to produce liquid droplets of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, so it looked as though it was raining.


    "No!" The group of third-Firmament fiendcelestials could not accept everything that was happening in front of them.


    "Highwarrior Qinyun!"


    Many of the third-Firmament fiendcelestials saw red. Instantly, there was a massive ax, a horrifying burning fist, a sinister blood-colored blade¡­ A myriad of attacks landed on Qin Yun''s body. He was already heavily injured, and his chest was penetrated by a spear; therefore, even with his Indestructible Body, he could not withstand the terrifying barrage of attacks.


    Qin Yun smiled as he watched it all happen. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies rained down in liquid form as he saw the fiery fist that resembled a tiny mountain, the sinister blade¡­ All of them arrived.


    "It''s over."


    "Skygod Suigu, Your Highness Firephoenix, all of you placed huge hopes on me. This is all I can do in return."


    "My parents in this life, you wished for me to marry and have children so as to establish a Godfiend family. I won''t be able to do so."


    "And Yuqin, Cailan, I''m sorry."


    At that instant, the terrifying attacks all hit him at once.


    Boom!


    Qin Yun felt his soul resonate as his mind instantly went blank.


    A force hidden within Qin Yun rapidly enveloped his soul and departed the world, rapidly tunneling through space-time itself.

 261 Ending

    Chapter 261: Ending


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The frantic and red-eyed group of third-Firmament fiendcelestials jointly reduced Qin Yun''s body to a pulp, leaving only his armor and sword behind.


    "Whoosh!" The liquefied Heaven and Earth spiritual energies scattered, raining down on the destroyed Blood Lotus flower, the third-Firmament fiendcelestials, and the ice-cold armor and sword.


    The group of fiendcelestials were either floating in midair or standing around the remains of Highwarrior Qinyun. After destroying his body, they looked at the destroyed Blood Lotus flower and fell silent.


    "We''re doomed."


    A fiendcelestial looked up and allowed the Heaven and Earth spiritual rain to hit his face. He felt his heart turn cold as he murmured, "The Fiend Nest has been destroyed. We only had two Fiend Nests. Now that one of them is destroyed, its equivalent to losing half our foundations. This will be very problematic."


    "Darn that Highwarrior Qinyun! He destroyed the Fiend Nest and even shattered all the Heaven Earth Essence Crystals in it, causing all the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies to return to the Heaven and Earth. He didn''t even leave us a chance at rebuilding the Fiend Nest!"


    The large number of Heaven Earth Essence Crystals was the energy source of the Fiend Nest.


    "Rebuild the Fiend Nest? The humans are no longer the same as in the past. After Suigu turned into a Skygod, even if a new source of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies is born and the Empyrean Lord is willing to expend large amounts of treasures, Skygod Suigu would not watch idly as we rebuild it. He can easily sabotage the construction and stop us. We no longer have any chance of rebuilding the Fiend Nest."


    "It wasn¡¯t just the Fiend Nest, the large number of Heaven Earth Essence Crystals were treasures of great important. Yet, now they are all gone."


    "Don''t think about this any further. Our foundation has been halved. In the future, the number of fiendcelestials we can produce will drastically decrease. In a prolonged battle with humans, it won''t take long for us to be at an utter disadvantage."


    "I really can''t accept it!"


    "This world should have belonged to us, the fiendish demons!"


    The fiendcelestials were enraged and indignant.


    They could already see that things would only go from bad to worse in the future. All of this was the result of Highwarrior Qinyun''s destruction of the Fiend Nest.


    "He was a third-Firmament Godfiend. With such strength, he had the chance of living for tens of thousands of years, or even hundreds of thousands of years. And if he became a Skygod, he would no longer suffer the tribulations and have a limitless future. Why did he sacrifice himself?"


    "The chances of destroying a Fiend Nest are very slim to begin with. Anyone that dares to storm in would definitely die. Why did he do something that would definitely get him killed?"


    "Ever since the two Fiend Nests were built, no third-Firmament Godfiend has ever come on a suicide mission. So why did he?"


    All the third-Firmament fiendcelestials were puzzled.


    "Let''s inform the Empyrean Lord."


    Under the Heaven and Earth spiritual rain, they began to contact the terrifying existence in another infinitely distant realm.


    Buzz.


    The void around them distorted, and a rift ripped open in front of them. A massive figure''s head appeared behind the void. His purple pupils looked over.


    "Empyrean Lord." The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials bowed respectfully.


    "Oh?" The Empyrean Lord was astonished. The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials were seeking an audience with him at the same time?


    Following that, the Empyrean Lord looked through the spatial rift and took in the surrounding scene. On the broken Blood Lotus flower, one of the petals had been penetrated. The flower pistil had completely shattered. All the Heaven Earth Essence Crystals had vanished and it was raining around them.


    "The Fiend Nest''s Blood Lotus has been destroyed?" The Empyrean Lord found it unbelievable. "What happened? How could this happen?"


    "Empyrean Lord." Wu Siyou said respectfully. "Fire Phoenix City''s third-Firmament Godfiend Elder, Highwarrior Qinyun, infiltrated Prestige Fiend Mountain with complete disregard for his life. He was exposed only when he reached the entrance. He was amazingly fast and although we pursued him, he managed to enter the Fiend Nest. When he reached the Blood Lotus, he relied on his Indestructible Body and other divine powers to live long enough to destroy the Blood Lotus. Before he died, he even used a domain-type divine power to destroy all the Heaven Earth Essence Crystals within."


    Empyrean Lord fell silent, but his purple pupils were filled with rage.


    "Fools! Fools! Fools!" Empyrean Lord roared in his heart. "You bunch of incompetent fools! I sacrificed so much to give the fiendish demons an advantage over the humans. Now that one of the Fiend Nests is destroyed¡­ half of our bases are gone. In a thousand years, the fiendish demons will probably be the disadvantaged ones. And this world itself is inclined towards the humans, repelling the powers of us Other Realm Fiendcelestials. It''s now hundreds of times harder trying to occupy this world than before."


    ¡­


    In one of the nine major cities of humanity, Suigu City.


    The supreme leader of the magus lineage, Patriarch Magus, lived here. Patriarch Magus was an elder with skin that resembled tree bark, but his pupils seemed to contain infinite wisdom. The cultivation of the magus lineage was a lot more difficult than the Godfiend lineage, even to the point of there being many flaws in it. Patriarch Magus was an existence that staggered at the forefront of the magus way.


    "Oh?"


    Patriarch Magus was sitting cross-legged when he suddenly sensed something. He took out an ancient and unadorned mirror. He extended his finger and drew a figure on the mirror, sending blood out from his fingertip. "The fate of humanity has changed drastically?"


    "Show me the reason!" Patriarch Magus stared intently at the mirror. After his blood drew the figure on the mirror, the mirror finally revealed the scene of the Fiend Nest''s interior in Prestige Fiend Mountain.


    He saw the destroyed Blood Lotus flower, the broken flower pistil, and the raining Heaven and Earth spiritual energies.


    The fifteen third-Firmament fiendcelestials were reporting the matter to the Empyrean Lord.


    "It is our fault that we failed to stop Highwarrior Qinyun," said the fiendcelestials respectfully.


    "All the fiendcelestials in Prestige Fiend Mountain are to go to Sunset Fiend Lake. Abandon Prestige Fiend Mountain," said the Empyrean Lord.


    "Yes," replied the fiendcelestials.


    When Patriarch Magus saw all of this, his face flushed red. Finally, he spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, dissipating the image on the mirror.


    "So that''s the reason." Patriarch Magus was extremely agitated. "It''s no wonder the light bestowed on humanity by providence has increased in intensity. Prestige Fiend Mountain''s Fiend Nest has been destroyed. Wonderful! However, from what they said, it was Highwarrior Qinyun who destroyed the Fiend Nest?"


    ¡­


    In Fire Phoenix City, there was a Life Lamp placed in a hall in Godfiend Temple. Humans were stationed there. Suddenly, one Life Lamp extinguished as though it was snuffed out by the wind.


    "What? Elder Qinyun''s Life Lamp has extinguished?"


    "Elder Qinyun is dead?"


    The sentinels fell into a daze.


    Of course, a Life Lamp could not be snuffed out by the wind. There was only one possibility¡ªdeath.


    Soon.


    Firephoenix and the other Elders rushed over. They staggered in disbelief when they saw Highwarrior Qinyun''s extinguished Life Lamp.


    "How can Elder Qinyun die?"


    "I just saw him a few days ago."


    All of them found it unbelievable.


    Firephoenix immediately contacted Skygod Suigu. In front of her, a blurry phantom of Suigu condensed.


    "Brother Suigu," said Firephoenix anxiously. "Qinyun''s Life Lamp has extinguished. Why did that happen?"


    "Sigh."


    Suigu sighed. "Firephoenix, I was just informed by Patriarch Magus that Qinyun ventured into Prestige Fiend Mountain, stormed into the Fiend Nest, and finally destroyed it without any regard for his life. However, with so many fiendcelestials there, he lost his life."


    "Why¡­ Why did he go to Prestige Fiend Mountain?" Firephoenix refused to believe it. "Who made him go on that suicide mission?"


    "No one did. Even if someone tried to, would he listen to them?" Suigu shook his head. "I can''t figure it out either. However, the destruction of a Fiend Nest hurts the fiendish demons greatly. As a result, the fate of humanity has improved. By the way, we will come over there soon. I feel that there must be a secret behind Qinyun''s suicide mission."


    "Yea." Firephoenix nodded.


    The Godfiend Elders were stunned when they heard that.


    The Prestige Fiend Mountain''s Fiend Nest had been destroyed?


    The fate of humanity has improved?


    "Elder Qinyun went to destroy the Fiend Nest?"


    "Why did he do that?"


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    Skygod Suigu arrived in Fire Phoenix City and, together with Firephoenix, he entered the underground space in Godfiend Temple. The other Godfiend Elders followed them and headed for Qin Yun''s cultivation chamber.


    "He did not even tell me about such an important matter. It''s unlikely he told his family," said Suigu. "If he has any last words, they are probably in the Fire Phoenix Nest''s chamber."


    "Yea." Firephoenix nodded.


    "Sigh. Honestly, what he did is actually very good for humanity," said Suigu wistfully. "It has reversed the situation of our conflict and before long, we will hold the advantage over the fiendish demons."


    "It is good for humanity...but he has sacrificed his life." Firephoenix shook her head. "He was very talented and he even had a chance of becoming a Skygod."


    Suigu nodded as well.


    But in fact, although they wished Qin Yun could become a Skygod in ten thousand years, it was only a wish! As for whether he could really become one? No one was completely confident.


    Now, Qin Yun had been sacrificed in exchange for the destruction of one Fiend Nest! Suigu and company felt excited but depressed. They were excited over the tremendous improvement in the fate of humanity. They were confident that humanity would be the final masters of this world, but they also felt depressed that it took the loss of such a promising young junior to accomplish it.


    They crossed the lake and arrived in front of Qin Yun''s cultivation chamber.


    Firephoenix opened the chamber.


    The moment the chamber opened, they saw neatly-arranged treasures. For example, there were the spoils of war Qin Yun obtained when he killed the Blackwater Pond brothers and the treasures Suigu bestowed to Qin Yun for cultivation. All of them were laid out. And sitting above them were three scrolls.


    This scene made Suigu, Firephoenix, and the other Godfiend Elders fall silent.


    "He indeed arranged for it," said Suigu softly.


    "Why did he choose this route?" Firephoenix''s eyes were red. She beckoned with her hand as the three scrolls flew to her. They unfolded simultaneously in midair.


    Firephoenix and Suigu looked at them.


    "Elder Muqi, bring Elder Qinyun''s parents, as well as the two lasses, Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan," said Firephoenix.


    She put away the two scrolls.


    She then read the scroll meant for her and Suigu.


    "This kid chose this path but before his death, the thing he worried about the most was his family." Suigu shook his head. "Did he need to elaborate on this? With such a great achievement, the fate of humanity has changed because of him! How can we not treat his family with care?"


    "This is the only concern he had before his death," said Firephoenix.


    Soon.


    The couple, Highwarrior Ambition and Qiyu, as well as the two girls, Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan, flew across the lake and entered the chamber.


    "What happened?"


    "What exactly happened?"


    They were somewhat lost. The gazes of the surrounding Elders only made them more worried.


    "This is a letter Elder Qinyun left you," said Firephoenix. The two scrolls flew to the Highwarrior couple and the two girls, Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan, respectively.


    They immediately unfurled the scrolls and read them.


    "My days were numbered to begin with¡­ Why would my son''s days be numbered? Isn''t he at the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm?" Highwarrior Ambition widened his eyes when he read the scroll.


    "My trip to Prestige Fiend Mountain will spell definite doom," Qiyu muttered as she read the scroll, her face turning pale in the process.


    Standing beside them, Firephoenix said, "Elder Qinyun went to Prestige Fiend Mountain and, at the cost of his life, destroyed the Fiend Nest. What he did for humanity is tremendous. All of humanity will be grateful towards him, but he has perished on Prestige Fiend Mountain."


    As for Firephoenix Yuqing and Cailan, their faces were already covered in tears.


    "No! No! This shouldn''t happen!" Cailan shook her head, refusing to accept what she just read.


    "Yun! You said that you would marry me¡­ that you would marry me." Firephoenix Yuqing''s eyes reddened when she read the scroll. They had bantered with each other since childhood and participated in the Coming of Age ceremony together. She watched Wing transform into Highwarrior Qinyun and witnessed his rapid growth firsthand. Her childhood for feelings gradually transformed into idolization and endearment. She always waited for the day he would marry her, but now that day would never come!


    ¡­


    To this world, Qin Yun was only a transient guest that stayed for fifty years. He was like a meteor, brilliant for a moment before vanishing. But with time, the number of people who would remember him in this world would only decrease. As for Skygod Suigu, Firephoenix, Cailan, Firephoenix Yuqing, and the other Elders, they would never forget him.

 262 Descent. Meng Yiqiu

    Chapter 262: Descent. Meng Yiqiu


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s soul was carried away by a mysterious force as he made his way through space-time into a distant world before entering the body of a man.


    "Ah!"


    In his stupor, Qin Yun felt his head ache terribly. He seemed both awake and unconscious at the same time, with chaotic memories flooding his brain.


    For a moment, he remembered himself as Qin Yun, a warrior dreaming for a hundred years after obtaining the Amita wooden figurine.


    Another moment, he would identify himself as Meng Yiqiu, a man who was poisoned with few days left to live.


    "Huh!"


    Qin Yun suddenly sat up and looked around him.


    He was in an elegant bamboo hut, with sunlight seeping in through the gaps in the bamboo. It was bright and beautiful.


    After waking up, Qin Yun''s memories were no longer in chaos. He knew that he had entered the second world for his dream of a hundred years.


    "Amita''s wooden figurine allows me to dream a hundred years. I spent fifty years in the previous world. Will I spend another fifty years in here?" Qin Yun nodded. "After spending fifty years here, the hundred years dream will come to an end."


    "Cailan, Yuqing." Qin Yun recalled the two women from his past fifty years.


    "I can not let affairs of the heart spur me while I''m in this world for fifty years," thought Qin Yun.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun suddenly frowned. "My soul has weakened. It''s at the level it was back when I started this dream? It''s as though Fire Phoenix City and everything I experienced in that world was an illusion."


    "But those memories are still fresh in my mind. The enhancement of my Sword Dao exists too."


    Qin Yun stood up.


    He walked out of the bamboo hut and saw a gurgling stream outside. Green grass and wild flowers carpeted the ground. The scenery was gorgeous. It uplifted Qin Yun''s mood.


    "According to the memories, this body''s name is Meng Yiqiu," thought Qin Yun. "He''s thirty-eight this year and is an Elder of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. However, this Meng Yiqiu has led quite a tragic life."


    "Meng Yiqiu and his younger sister have depended on each other for survival ever since they were young. Later on, he encountered the previous sect master of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect and was brought there! He climbed the ranks, going from an outer-sect disciple to an inner-sect disciple. Eventually, he became one of the three personal disciples of the sect master. Due to his extreme talent, he became the prime successor to the sect master. His sister, Meng Yuxiang, was made the wife of the second young master of the Duan family, household of the Chu Kingdom''s Quelling Duke."


    "His future looked promising, but who knew that Meng Yiqiu would end up smitten with a particular Fairy Gong? The two of them spent their days together in a carefree manner. He fought for Fairy Gong and eventually got poisoned with Spring Wind Warmth. No medicine worked and Fairy Gong abandoned him. He had no choice but to return to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Without a cure for his poison, he could only live on for a year and a half despite already reaching the Connate False Core realm.


    "With Fairy Gong abandoning him and him being poisoned, Meng Yiqiu wallowed in despair. Therefore, he built a small hut in the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s rear and decided to await his death."


    "Yet, before Meng Yiqiu died, his master, the incumbent Zhou Mountain Sword Sect sect master, ended up being murdered two months ago. His eldest senior brother took over the position of sect master. As for Meng Yiqiu, who was the most talented, he naturally became an Elder. However, his days were numbered."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    Meng Yiqiu was pitiful.


    "Based on these memories, that Fairy Gong totally used Meng Yiqiu. She would speak sweet nothings to him and express her love for him but once he was inflicted with an incurable poison, she abandoned him immediately for his lack of worth. Meng Yiqiu was truly blind to fall in love with such a vicious woman."


    "He had a promising future ahead of him but it was destroyed in such a manner."


    "However, now that I''ve come here, it seems the poison has been cured?" Qin Yun used his senses to check on his body. There was no longer any poison in his system. Both times he descended, the bodies he entered were on the verge of death. However, the moment he took over the bodies, they rapidly recovered.


    Qin Yun did not care for Meng Yiqiu''s sad predicament.


    He only cared about this world.


    "This world is very special." Qin Yun stood on the grass as he sensed the surrounding Heaven and Earth powers with his powerful soul. "This world has very thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. It can''t even compare to my homeworld''s, much less the ancient time I just came from."


    "In this world, there are no such things as Dharma spells, Dharma treasures, or even fiendish demons!"


    Qin Yun shook his head silently.


    "Due to the thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, cultivation is extremely difficult. The requirement of one''s realm is extremely high." Qin Yun shook his head. "It''s completely opposite from ancient times."


    In ancient times, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were extremely rich. The requirement of one''s realm was instead rather low.


    His homeworld was in between the two extremities.


    This world''s requirement to advance realms was extremely high.


    "The cultivation system in this world is demarcated into the Postnatal and the Connate realm."


    "The Connate realm is also split into False Core, True Core, and Golden Core," thought Qin Yun. "However, with the overly thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, it makes cultivation a lot harder."


    "Only by reaching the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm would one have a chance of reaching the Connate False Core realm!


    "The Connate True Core realm requires the Paramount realm."


    "The Connate Golden Core realm requires one to step into the Dao."


    "The Connate Golden Core is the limit to one''s cultivation. However, if the Dao one grasps is sufficiently strong, legends say that one would be able to shatter the void and ascend." Qin Yun thought to himself, "Shatter the void and ascend? I wonder where one would ascend to."


    This world was indeed special.


    At the level of immortals, one had to suffer the tribulations of the heavens. But in this world, the highest realm was the Connate Golden Core, which resulted in no such thing as tribulations.


    It greatly influenced the way cultivation sects treated mortals! They were intricately linked with mortals in every aspect!


    "For example, Meng Yiqiu''s Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has six thousand outer-sect disciples! There are also eight hundred inner-sect disciples. Then there are the many Elders. Elders can also take in inherited-teachings disciples," thought Qin Yun. "Sending out more than a hundred disciples would make them more powerful than mortal armies. Therefore, after Meng Yiqiu entered the Connate realm, even Second Young Master Duan of the Chu Kingdom''s Quelling Duke line took the initiative to marry his sister."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The cultivation sects in the world also influenced the imperial family and family clans of mortals.


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun recalled the manuals Meng Yiqiu cultivated in, his eyes could not help but light up. "Impressive. As this world doesn''t have immortals or fiends, there are no Dharma spells or divine powers. Over time, generations of geniuses came to focus on sword and saber skills. As a result, they have created many fascinating sword and saber techniques. In terms of foundation, they are much better than my homeworld."


    The geniuses in his homeworld would focus more on talisman amulet techniques or Dharma spells after they knocked open the gate of immortality. For instance, Qin Yun focused solely on his flying sword arts during his later years.


    But in this world, all cultivators would focus on close combat skills, improving them incrementally every generation. In this aspect, they far exceeded Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    "This Meng Yiqiu is considered a genius. He managed to grasp sword intent at a young age, allowing him to reach the Connate False Core realm," thought Qin Yun. "He was even earmarked to become the next sect master. Unfortunately, he was reduced to such a state."


    "However, the Frost Sword Chart he studies is one of the three best skills of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. It allows a direct path to entering the Dao."


    Qin Yun extended his hand.


    A tree branch flew over and landed in his hand. With a swipe of his hand, the leaves fell off, leaving only the wooden branch.


    With a tree branch in hand, Qin Yun began cultivating the Frost Sword Chart.


    ******


    The world was split into three. The Chu Kingdom, the Yan Kingdom, and the Wei Kingdom. In terms of strength, the Chu Kingdom was the strongest.


    The Zhou Mountain stretched out for fifty kilometers. On it was the famous sword sect, Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. It was also one of the eight largest sects of the Chu Kingdom! However, this world lacked immortals, making the Connate Golden Core the limit. This resulted in short-lived sects. A dynasty would only thrive for a few centuries, and it would be considered pretty impressive if a sect could thrive for several centuries.


    "Zhou Mountain Sword Sect."


    About a hundred and fifty kilometers away from Zhou Mountain, there was a boat on a river.


    An elder on the boat was looking towards the distant north as he sneered. "We have waited so long for this day to finally come! The previous sect master of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect is dead. Although Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu isn''t dead, the remaining bit of strength he has is negligible. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has lost a great deal of its overall strength, reaching an unprecedented level of weakness."


    "Island Lord Qu, Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has thrived for three centuries. It is not to be underestimated. Even if it''s at its weakest, we should proceed according to plan," said a beautiful black-dressed woman beside him with a smile.


    The elder shot a glance at the woman and chuckled. "Babe, don''t worry. I treasure my life the most. Naturally, I''ll meet up with your Palatial Lord before taking any action."

 263 Zhou Mountain Sword Sec

    Chapter 263: Zhou Mountain Sword Sect


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On the grass in front of the bamboo hut, Qin Yun was using a tree branch as a sword to cultivate one of the three best skills of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, Frost Sword Chart.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Dazzling sword flashes created misty frost. A layer of ice began appearing on the ground as it encroached outwards. It was quite ridiculous to see a freezing sheet of ice in the bright spring sun.


    The more Qin Yun practiced, the more delighted he became.


    "Impressive! The Frost Sword Chart''s basic sword technique¡ªThree Thousand Frost Sword¡ª is a sword technique with the most robust foundations I have ever seen. As long as I follow the prescribed order and arduously cultivate in it, reaching the Seamless realm is a certainty." Qin Yun was rather astonished. "A basic sword technique that ensures one reaches the Seamless realm. In my homeworld, I''m deemed the best sword immortal in the world but even I cannot create something like this! But the generations of geniuses in this world have placed all their efforts on close combat skills. They have already created a system that is a lot more brilliant than my homeworld¡¯s."


    Qin Yun was filled with joy.


    The Frost Sword Chart''s basic sword technique, Three Thousand Frost Sword, had already benefited Qin Yun greatly. He could study and dissect the sword technique from a different angle.


    "Each world has its advantages."


    "In ancient times, the moves might have been crude but it was easier to become a Godfiend. They had powerful souls as well. Cultivation was fast. I managed to gain insights into my Sword Dao within ten years. I perfected my Sword Dao in fifty years," thought Qin Yun. "But this world, having existed for so long, has gaps in its known history. Immortals are already a legend. Divine powers and Dharma spells are already lost heritages. All of them research close combat techniques. As a result, the close combat techniques have reached an amazing stage through the cumulative wisdom of countless experts."


    "This is what I need to learn."


    Qin Yun learned many things from the Frost Sword Chart so he was naturally eager to learn more.


    ¡­


    As a peerless sword immortal who had grasped Sword Dao, Qin Yun only needed half a day to fully dissect the Three Thousand Frost Sword. He absorbed the wisdom within and fused it into the Misty Rain Sword before cultivating the sword technique in the second volume of the Frost Sword Chart.


    "The second volume of the Frost Sword Chart, Iceheart Sword Art."


    The first volume led straight to the Paramount realm.


    When this sword art was cultivated to the Paramount realm, it would be called the Iceheart Paramount realm. Upon mastering it, one''s heart would be as still as an ice mirror. It could reflect all things and as such, perfectly see through the flaws in an enemy''s attacks. One could take the initiative and rapidly defeat their enemy.


    Although Qin Yun was a sword immortal that had grasped Sword Dao and he had a total of nine Paramount realms contained within his Sword Dao, it lacked the Iceheart Paramount realm. Logically speaking, grasping a new Paramount realm was very difficult.


    But when he truly began cultivating, Qin Yun found that everything flowed smoothly.


    "How odd."


    "I feel that my mind in this world is especially calm and gentle." Qin Yun was perplexed. "In the last world, my body was filled with bloodlust. The immense killing intent constantly tormented me. But in this world¡­ it''s the opposite. I''m extremely calm. Even though I have discovered a sword art that revolutionizes my understanding, I remain composed when I should be very happy."


    The state of having his mind as still as water was naturally beneficial for cultivating. But if he constantly felt that way, the loss of his passion, anger, and strong emotions could be quite a problem.


    "It feels like I have become an accomplished monk." Qin Yun shook his head and chuckled. "In Meng Yiqiu''s memories, he was never in such a state or he would not have been so mesmerized by Fairy Gong. In my previous life, Wing was also very normal. After I descended into that world, I was constantly tormented by the bloodlust. In this world, it''s the complete opposite. I''m especially calm and gentle after descending into this world."


    After practicing for a while.


    "I''ve¡­ mastered it?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    In just an hour, Qin Yun had grasped a new Paramount realm, Iceheart.


    "I managed to grasp the Iceheart Paramount realm in such a short period of time. It seems that my mind in this world is especially suited for the Iceheart Paramount realm," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    The Frost Sword Chart had three volumes.


    After the Three Thousand Frost Ice Sword and the Iceheart Sword Art, the Frost Chart went from the basics to a profound level. But in fact, Qin Yun wasn''t impressed by the final Frost Chart. With his Sword Dao''s level, he quickly identified that the Frost Chart was a Sword Dao comprehended by a person known as Aged Frost. He was a peerless swordsman who had stepped into the Dao long ago. After the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect obtained his manual, it became one of its top three skills.


    The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples would look at the Frost Sword Chart and cogitate over the sword techniques. Every generation produced many accomplished figures.


    This generation, the most accomplished person in the Frost Sword Chart was Meng Yiqiu who had the accolade, Frost Sword.


    "Frost Sword Chart? This is only a Dao at the most ordinary level." Qin Yun shook his head silently. He threw the branch away. "It''s far inferior to the Sword Dao I have comprehended. Instead, it was the basic sword techniques that have given me inspiration."


    "This Frost Sword Chart has been mastered and is useless to me. I need to gather more sword techniques."


    "Master! Master!" A clear voice sounded.


    A green-dressed girl carrying a bamboo basket shouted from afar as she approached.


    Qin Yun turned towards her and could not help but smile. "Qingsha."


    "Master, you look a lot better today," praised the green-dressed girl with lit up eyes. For the past few days, her master would not exit the bamboo hut, especially after the sect master passed away and left him aggrieved. It was truly rare that her master came out today with a smile.


    "Qingsha," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I''ve become an Elder, and due to the sect''s rules, I need to take in at least two personal disciples. You and Meixia have been assigned to learn from me. Meixia recently came to meet me and never came again. As for you, you come daily to serve me food. Don''t you know that my days are numbered and that I''m about to die?"


    "He who teaches me for one day is my father for life," said the green-dressed girl solemnly.


    Liu Qingsha entered the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect as a child. She cultivated arduously from a young age and after many selections and internal sect competitions, she was finally made an inherited-teachings disciple this year at the age of eighteen! She never expected to be designated as Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu''s disciple with Qi Meixia! It was the worst possible arrangement since everyone knew that Meng Yiqiu would die in the next few months.


    Qi Meixia served her new master warmly in the beginning, hoping the Meng Yiqiu would guide her before his death. However, Meng Yiqiu was in pain and his beloved master was dead, so he was wallowing in sadness, with no mood to teach his disciples. Realizing that there was little hope, Qi Meixia decided to get in the good graces of other Elders.


    As for Liu Qingsha, she brought food every day. From her point of view, he was still her master.


    In the cultivation world¡­ the relationship between master and disciple was very important. A master was truly like one''s parent.


    "He who teaches me for one day is my father for life," Qin Yun muttered softly. In Meng Yiqiu''s memories, the person he idolized the most was his master, the previous Zhou Mountain Sword Sect sect master, Feng Qingcang. This memory also made Qin Yun feel respect for Feng Qingcang.


    "Qingsha, follow me." Qin Yun beckoned. A sword flew out from the bamboo hut and landed in his hand. He then hung it at his waist.


    "Yes." Liu Qingsha was somewhat perplexed but she followed him with the bamboo basket.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun led Liu Qingsha to a tomb located in the back mountains.


    It was the grave of the previous sect master, Feng Qingcang.


    Qin Yun observed it quietly.


    Meng Yiqiu and his younger sister depended on each other for survival since he was young. They were later saved by Feng Qingcang and brought back to the sect. Feng Qingcang also frequently took care of him. Later on, Meng Yiqiu quickly became a personal disciple of Feng Qingcang. Meng Yiqiu thought of Feng Qingcang as his father! Feng Qingcang also treated Meng Yiqiu as his child. After Meng Yiqiu was poisoned, Feng Qingcang went into a rage and left the sect. First, to seek a cure to the poison and secondly, for revenge.


    Feng Qingcang''s death was in some way a result of Meng Yiqiu.


    Therefore, Feng Qingcang''s death left Meng Yiqiu ridden with guilt and grief.


    "I only absorbed a portion of his memories. Why do I feel this pain?" Qin Yun held his chest as he looked at the tombstone. "Is it an obsession of the body?"


    "This Meng Yiqiu fell into this state mainly because he was too foolish. He was completely used by that vicious woman. He was a pawn for her and he even implicated his master."


    "That vicious woman¡­"


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes. "Meng Yiqiu might be thirty-eight years old but the amount of darkness he has seen in the hearts of others is just too little! From the looks of it, that vicious woman had been using him and scheming against him from the beginning."


    "Meng Yiqiu, I know you hate her. Don''t worry. The Heavenly Dao will shine its light. There will be retribution," murmured Qin Yun.


    Liu Qingsha peered around from the back.


    She knew that her master and the previous sect master had a deep relationship.


    "Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong! Gong!"


    Hurried gongs sounded six consecutive times.


    "Six times?" Qin Yun''s expression changed. Liu Qingsha''s face turned pale. The six gongs meant that the sect was on the brink of destruction.


    "Master!" Liu Qingsha was panicking.


    "Go!" Qin Yun bellowed as he led Liu Qingsha in a rapid rush towards the sect''s main hall.


    ******


    The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had deep roots. Although a number of disciples were out in the wild, they immediately gathered three thousand outer-sect disciples and five hundred inner-sect disciples, as well as inherited-teachings disciples and Elders. They stood in a square in front of the sect''s main hall.


    The dense crowd of disciples was looking stoically ahead. They had already set up a sword formation with countless amounts of sword Qi taking form as phantoms above the mountains. All of these disciples joined forces in the form of a sword formation. With its power, they could easily destroy the imperial government''s hundred-thousand-strong army! However, they were now facing the appearance of a massive enemy. Right in front of the sword formation were the present sect master, Zuo Tang, the Elders, and the inherited-teachings disciples.


    Those that could become Elders were Connate realm experts at the Heavenly Dao intent realm. All of them were mighty figures that could fight ten thousand alone.


    Whoosh.


    With his disciple Liu Qingsha, Qin Yun arrived in front of the crowd. They were the last to arrive since they came from the rear of the mountain.


    "Meng Yiqiu." The other Elders looked at Qin Yun with disgust. He was a poisoned Elder with little strength left. Furthermore, the previous sect master''s death was because of Meng Yiqiu. They naturally detested him.


    "Fooled by a woman and caused our master''s death. Foolish and useless."


    Many people felt that way as they looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun stood to the side when he appeared.


    "Yiqiu." The sect master, Zuo Tang, looked like a slightly plump middle-aged man. He was about eighty years old. However, the Connate False Core realm gave one a lifespan of two hundred years. He was still considered young and strong. He was also Qin Yun''s eldest senior brother. Zuo Tang looked at Qin Yun with a mix of emotions. They were still close as fellow disciples. He too felt his heart ache as he watched his junior brother approach death.


    "Senior Brother, what happened?" inquired Qin Yun.


    Zuo Tang looked at the distant foot of the mountain and said, "Yiqiu, the situation is terrible. The Blood Saber Palace is invading us on a large scale. The disciples at the foot of the mountain are probably already dead. It won¡¯t be long before the Blood Saber Palace''s experts storm up the mountain. With the grudge we have had with them all these years, they will not hesitate to wipe us out."

 264 One Fatal Strike

    Chapter 264: One Fatal Strike


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    There were no fiendish demons in this world so naturally, any wars happened between humans.


    The Chu, Yan, and Wei Kingdoms engaged in both open and veiled battles. Cultivation sects naturally fought contentiously. Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, one of the eight big sects in the Chu Kingdom was in a nadir in the recent decades. The only person listed on the Earth roll was the former sect master, Feng Qingcang! As for Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu, who had entered the Connate realm at age thirty, he was thought of highly by the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. He was designated to be the next sect master and all the Elders pinned their hopes on Meng Yiqiu to revitalize the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    But then¡­


    It was fine if Meng Yiqiu only entangled himself with a woman but he ended up poisoned, destroying his future! He even implicated Feng Qingcang and caused his death!


    As a result, one of the eight big sects in the Chu Kingdom did not even have a person placed on the Earth roll! This was unprecedented. It also meant that it was at its weakest ever.


    Now, calamity had indeed befallen them.


    "They are scaling the mountain." A blue-robed Elder looked down the mountain and said coldly.


    "With Junior Brother Feng dead, the Blood Saber Palace believes that our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect is easily bullied." The eyes of an Elder to the side were burning with anger.


    "Meng Yiqiu, Junior Brother Feng lost his life because he was trying to seek revenge for you. If he were still alive, would the Blood Saber Palace dare act so boldly?"


    "You cannot absolve yourself from this calamity!"


    Two Elders stared angrily at Qin Yun.


    They had expected better from him! Now they even loathed him!


    "I cannot be absolved of the blame?" Qin Yun could sense the anger the surrounding Elders had for him.


    "If our sect entrance is flattened, you will be a sinner of our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect."


    "Meng Yiqiu, you are already fatally poisoned. Now that this is happening, redeem yourself by fighting to the death."


    "Redeem himself? He has only ten or twenty percent of his strength left. What use is he even if he fights to the death?"


    The Elders made such hateful remarks.


    "Enough!" Zuo Tang frowned and bellowed. "Now that the sect is on the brink of destruction, we should work together against the enemy."


    The ones that were closest to Qin Yun in the sect was the father-like former sect master, Feng Qingcang and his eldest senior brother, Zuo Tang.


    "Why would we be afraid of the Blood Saber Palace?"


    "Our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has thousands of disciples. It''s not something the Blood Saber Palace can wipe out so easily."


    "At most, we will assure mutual destruction."


    The eyes of the surrounding Elders and the inherited-teachings disciples turned red.


    "They are here," said Zuo Tang. Everyone fell silent. Many Elders and disciples were feeling anxious. After all, the sect now had a full-blown crisis on their hands. The sect might even be massacred. Upon realizing this, many Elders glared at the thin Meng Yiqiu.


    In just a few seconds, many streams of light flew over. The mountain path was like flat land. Most people could not make them out. Instantly, more than a hundred figures appeared on the top of the mountain. The weakest of the group were at the twelfth Qi Refinement Postnatal realm. That was already considered a top expert in the world! The fifteen leaders had surging auras. All of them were Connate experts.


    Qin Yun marveled inwardly. The Connate False Cores in this world were at least at the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm. In terms of combat strength, they could slay the great demon White Tiger in three to five strikes. Their strength was at the level of Gongye Bing''s.


    ''"Hahaha¡­"


    The leader was a white-haired elder donned in a black robe. His laughter reverberated like thunder. "The old fool Feng is dead. Does the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect still think it can resist us? If you know any better, surrender and submit without a fuss. My Wei Kingdom will naturally treat all of you well. If you remain stubborn, hmph! This day next year will be the day of your death anniversary!"


    "Kiddo Zuo Tang, thousands of your disciples are forming a sword formation but it''s nothing but a joke to me! Brother Fang alone can wipe out such a puny sword formation."


    "Oldie Fu, do you still recognize me, Qu Cang?"


    The Connate realm experts spoke one after another.


    The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Zuo Tang, five Elders, and the numerous inherited-teachings disciples had drastic changes in expression.


    "What? Fifteen Connate experts?" Even Curmudgeon Qu from the South Sea is here?"


    "The Blood Saber Palace has sent its Grand Elder, Fiend Imbibing Saber Fang Chenshu, here. He even invited some Connate itinerant cultivators. They have a total of fifteen Connate realms. Fang Chenshu is an expert on the Earth roll. He can fly into the sky and burrow into the land. He can kill our disciples from a high altitude. Our disciples'' sword formation will not be able to touch him at all."


    "We only have six at the Connate realm. They have fifteen. The gap is too huge."


    "Sect Master, what do we do now?"


    Upon realizing the gap, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect Elders and the inherited-teachings disciples panicked.


    Qin Yun felt helpless as he stood to the side. "Zuo Tang and the five Elders, including me, means we have seven at the Connate realm. It looks like they do not even consider Meng Yiqiu after his poisoning."


    "Make up your mind quickly." The gray-haired elder, Fang Chenshu''s body rose up directly. A terrifying bloodlust aura emanated out, causing the world to tremble slightly. He coldly swept his gaze across the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect crowd. "If you remain stubborn, more than half of the Connate realms here today will probably die. Those that are lucky might escape. Do you think you possess that luck?"


    "Also, are you really prepared to die for your cause? After you die, your wives and concubines will fall into the hands of others to become playthings. What about your children? All of you have a family clan, right? With your death, your family clans would also be finished."


    Fang Chenshu laughed.


    The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Zuo Tang, Elders, and inherited-teachings disciples began to hesitate.


    Death was terrifying.


    "As long as you submit to my Wei Kingdom, there would be all kind of wealth and riches awaiting you. All of you can remain high in standing," said Fang Chenshu with a smile. "Between the choice of having both you and your clan destroyed and being able to revel in riches and enjoy the company of women, I believe all of you should know how to choose."


    "Fang Chenshu!" bellowed Zuo Tang. "We are disciples of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. We live and die as part of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect! We would rather die than be scum that betrays the sect and masters! And if you want to kill us, be prepared to be killed by us!"


    "Haha, Zuo Tang, you might want to die but the rest of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples might not share your thoughts," said Fang Chenshu. "Those who wish to surrender, you do not need to make it public. Just sending me a voice transmission would do. I''ll give all of you three more seconds."


    "Three¡­"


    "Two¡­"


    "Haha, three Elders have chosen to submit to my Wei Kingdom already." Fang Chenshu said with a laugh.


    Immediately, the Elders looked at each other. The inherited-teachings disciples, as well as the many disciples behind them, turned flustered.


    "He''s deliberately trying to sow discord!" shouted an Elder immediately.


    "I''m not sowing discord." Fang Chenshu smiled. If the other party were to put up a resistance, forcibly wiping them out meant taking heavy losses. By sowing discord, he could reduce the losses to a minimum.


    ¡­


    Zuo Tang''s eyes suffused redness. He had just been made sect master, so he was naturally unwilling to see the sect destroyed.


    He was indignant, truly indignant! But he was out of options!


    "In a while, I''ll hold back Fang Chenshu. All Elders are to scatter and flee for their lives. I only wish for all the Elders to rebuild my Zhou Mountain Sword Sect in the future." Zuo Tang sent a voice transmission to everyone. "Yiqiu, join hands with me. Both of us will hold back Fang Chenshu for as long as we can."


    "Sect Master."


    "Sect Master, no!" The other Elders panicked as well.


    "I have made up my mind." Zuo Tang was plump and he always had a good temper. At that moment, he was ready to die for his cause. He knew that if he wanted the Elders to risk their lives, they might very well end up surrendering. In that case, he decided on helping them flee, so as to ensure that the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would live on."


    Even Qin Yun was moved.


    The two closest people to Meng Yiqiu in the sect were his master, Feng Qingcang, and Zuo Tang. He naturally did not want to see Zuo Tang die.


    "Since I became Meng Yiqiu when I entered this world, I shall do some things on his behalf. In some sense, I''m returning a portion of karma to this body. Meng Yiqiu''s master, Feng Qingcang, also wishes that the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect will continue prospering." Qin Yun immediately took a step forward. In a few steps, he walked to the front of the crowd. Instantly, everyone from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect looked at Qin Yun in a daze. The Blood Saber Palace crowd was also taken aback as they looked at Qin Yun.


    "Yiqiu." Zuo Tang immediately went forward.


    Qin Yun extended his hand to block him. He smiled at Zuo Tang. "Senior Brother, there''s no need for you to take action. I alone can deal with them."


    Zuo Tang was taken aback.


    The five Elders were astounded. Meng Yiqiu, who had only ten to twenty percent of his strength left after being poisoned, claimed to be able to deal with the enemy alone? Was he joking? Was he insane?


    "Hahaha. Hahaha¡­" There was laughter coming from the Blood Saber Palace side. It was a Blood Saber Palace Elder, Gongyang Can, a Connate expert. He said disdainfully with a smile, "Meng Yiqiu, what are you bragging about? We can''t even be bothered to deal with you. Even if we don''t kill you, you will die in a few days when the poison finally consumes you. We are all very benevolent. We will permit you to live a little longer."


    "There''s no need to bother with him." Fang Chenshu''s voice rumbled as he said coldly, "Everyone from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, three Elders have submitted to my Wei Kingdom. It appears the rest of you will put up a stubborn resistance? In that case, everyone, kill!"


    Immediately, a group of Connate experts took the initiative to charge forward.


    However, Qin Yun instantly drew the sword by his waist. It was like an ice crystal for he was using the famous divine sword of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect¡ªFrost Sword!


    Sou!


    Qin Yun charged forward alone, clashing with the group of Connate experts. The first person to make contact with Qin Yun was Gongyang Can.


    "Since you have a death wish, I''ll fulfill it." Gongyang Can smiled sinisterly as he slashed with his blade.


    Qin Yun charged forward and instantly drew and sheathed his sword.


    He easily dodged his opponent''s strike. What seemed like a simple strike from Qin Yun happened to stab into Gongyang Can''s glabella.


    The duo passed each other.


    Gongyang Can stumbled a few steps as his eyes widened in disbelief. "One¡­ One strike?" A red mark appeared in the middle of his eyebrows as blood began pouring out of it. Following that, he slumped to the ground, sending a plume of dust upwards.


    The Connate realm expert Gongyang Can was killed in one strike.


    "Be careful!" The surrounding Connate experts looked around. They also noticed that Gongyang Can had died after one strike. They felt like a bucket of cold water had poured over their heads in the deep of winter. All of them became alert.


    "Be careful of Meng Yiqiu!" Fang Chenshu, who was originally composed, had a drastic change in expression as he bellowed angrily through a voice transmission.

 265 I am no Paramount realm

    Chapter 265: I am no Paramount realm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    This world was greatly different from Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    In Qin Yun''s homeworld, those that were not from the Godfiend or Physical Establishing Sage lineage would not fight in close combat. Instead, they would use their Dharma treasures to attack from afar! If things started to turn against them, they would immediately escape. Even Qin Yun killed his enemies with his flying sword from a distance away. The experts with weaker bodies would also place greater emphasis on life-preservation means. As for those with powerful bodies, they were extremely difficult to kill. Unless there was a qualitative difference in strength, it was typically difficult to actually kill an opponent.


    But this world was different. There were no divine powers, Dharma spells, or Dharma treasures. Not even the Godfiend lineage.


    Other than a few secret heritages, Connate experts had bodies that were considered normal. Once they failed to put up a resistance in close combat, it was common for them to be killed by a blade. Therefore, even if the foe was of equal strength, or just slightly weaker, they could be killed! In an intense fight, it was truly a life-and-death struggle.


    However, in such life-and-death struggles, Connate experts would place great importance on the attacks used in close combat. Their close combat techniques were much more intricate than in his homeworld. All of them could be considered as having an impermeable defense. Those with equal strength would typically exchange more than a hundred blows before finding an opportunity to kill their opponent.


    Yet Gongyang Can was killed on contact?


    This was not a life-and-death struggle but a complete trouncing!


    "Be careful!"


    All the Connate experts from Blood Saber Palace felt jittery.


    "Kill!" After killing Gongyang Can, Qin Yun did not stop. His heart which was as still as a mirror of ice reflected all the actions taken by his enemies. As his body phased away, he appeared beside two Connate experts. One of them held two axes and the other held a nine-segmented whip. They roared with hideous expressions as they struck out before retreating.


    His sword struck out, producing frost around him. The crystalline sword flashes brushed past the neck of the expert using the nine-segmented whip.


    Following that, Qin Yun retreated and turned to thrust out. Achieving an inconceivable angle, he managed to thrust his sword right through the hole between the two axes, stabbing straight into the heart of the Connate expert holding them.


    "Brother Mu!" A voice shrieked.


    Two Connate experts collapsed to the ground, dead. Blood flowed slowly, dyeing the ground red.


    Qin Yun''s body did not stop moving and neither did his hands. He charged straight towards the other Connate experts.


    The sects of this world also had inklings of Daoism, Buddhism, and the fiendish school of thought. For example, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect was inclined towards Daoism while the Blood Saber Palace was inclined towards the fiendish way. It made the Blood Saber Palace infamous around the world. For example, Fang Chenshu''s nickname was Fiend Imbibing Saber. To have a nickname with the word ''fiend,'' it reinforced the world''s view of him.


    The blood trail Qin Yun left behind actually took on a certain order. He chose the most infamous of the fifteen Connate experts to kill first. He was not in a rush to attack those that were rather neutral.


    He did so one by one.


    After all, if the fifteen were to escape all at once, there was no way he could hunt all of them down.


    "Meng Yiqiu, stop! Do you have the guts to fight me one-on-one?" Fang Chenshu roared angrily. His grayish-white hair was flailing as he charged at Qin Yun. However, Qin Yun ignored him for the time being. With another swing of his sword that was somehow both casual and extremely intricate, he produced a strike that had the exact right timing to rob the life of another.


    "Pfft." A Connate expert held his chest as he coughed out blood. He collapsed to the ground with widened eyes. Another Connate expert directly collapsed to the ground after having his glabella pierced.


    Two Connate experts died, raising the total body count to five in a blink of an eye! And ''coincidentally,'' the ones Qin Yun killed were Blood Saber Palace Elders.


    "Frost Sword Art."


    "He''s using Frost Sword Art. It''s very powerful." The members of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect flushed red with excitement.


    "With a heart as still as an ice mirror, he can predict the heavens and human behavior. The enemy falls right into his hands," a white-bearded elder said excitedly. "Look, all the enemies are moving according to Yiqiu''s plans like wooden puppets. Their attacks just fall short before they are robbed of their lives."


    "What a coincidence. Evil Xue''s curved blade was just a little short but it failed to touch Elder Meng. Meanwhile, Elder Meng seems to be strolling leisurely. Is this the Frost Sword Art?"


    "When has our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Frost Sword Art ever been that terrifying?"


    All the Elders and inherited-teachings disciples were excited.


    Zuo Tang clenched his fists tightly as his eyes lit up. He peered at the frost taking form around him and Meng Yiqiu who was killing enemies with shimmering sword flashes. "Junior Brother is really a genius. A true genius. It appears he is no longer burdened by the poison. In fact, has his strength improved greatly? Master, do you see this? Yiqiu is alright. His strength has improved too!"


    "Be careful of Fang Chenshu!"


    "Fang Chenshu!"


    The hearts of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect members tightened.


    Fiend Imbibing Saber Fang Chenshu finally got within range of Qin Yun after Qin Yun instantly killed the five Connate experts. Immediately, he cleaved with his saber.


    Fang Chenshu was an expert on the Earth roll! He was ranked fifty-seventh! Just the mention of the Fiend Imbibing Saber was enough to make many sects, wealthy clans, and even the three imperial families dread him. Such an expert was able to steer the fate of a large sect. Earth-ranked experts could fly into the sky and burrow into the land. If one flew high enough into the sky and used Sword Qi or Saber Qi to kill their enemy, many mortal armies would easily perish!


    "Die!" Fang Chenshu''s grayish-white hair flared in the wind while his eyes went red. Qin Yun had just killed five Blood Saber Palace Elders. The loss pushed him to the brink of insanity. The Blood Saber Palace only had a total of fifteen Elders!


    "Fang Chenshu." Qin Yun had deliberately avoided fighting him. But at that moment, he turned to meet him in battle.


    Fang Chenshu cast his saber arts. Accompanied by fiendish auras, his strikes were ruthless and oppressive.


    Qin Yun cast the Frost Sword Art, freezing frost around him. His attacks were swift and direct, aiming straight at Fang Chenshu''s critical points.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­


    The duo instantly engaged in an intense battle.


    "Don''t be in a rush to escape. Watch first." Some of the Connate itinerant cultivators that the Blood Saber Palace had invited had already begun fleeing. If it was an easy battle, they were naturally happy to take part. However, with the situation turning ugly, they were unwilling to die for the Blood Saber Palace. Therefore, the six Connate itinerant cultivators fled faster than anyone else. In a blink of an eye, they had fled to the mountainside.


    However, they stopped before they got completely away.


    They were either standing at the top of a towering tree or on a boulder. They watched the clash happening on the mountaintop.


    "Let''s see who is more powerful. Fang Chenshu or Meng Yiqiu," Qu Cang, an itinerant cultivator from the South Sea looked up and said.


    "This Meng Yiqiu is too ruthless. All his strikes were lethal. It left my heart palpitating." Another stocky man with a face full of beard also felt a lingering fear.


    "Third Brother, Meng Yiqiu cultivates in the Frost Sword Art, one of the three best techniques of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. He must have cultivated it to an extremely high level so that his heart is as still as an ice mirror. Only with that could he have so easily seen our weaknesses. In addition, his movements are very brilliant, allowing him to kill his enemies in one strike," said a yellow-robed elder nearby.


    "I feel that Meng Yiqiu is stronger than Fang Chenshu. It''s best we distance ourselves a little more."


    "Yes, we should hide away further."


    Even the other Elders of the Blood Saber Palace were rapidly retreating, much less the six Connate itinerant cultivators. All the perfected Qi Refinement disciples were also retreating in full force. They tried their best to maintain a sufficient distance. Staying behind did not lend any help to Fang Chenshu.


    "Wasn''t Meng Yiqiu poisoned by Spring Wind Warmth? And isn¡¯t that said to be incurable?"


    "Who knows? It''s supposed to be incurable, but no one can say for certain that Meng Yiqiu did not obtain some natural treasure. Some natural treasures can revive a person. Some can extend one''s lifespan. Some can cause a revitalizing effect. Something could have happened to cure him of his poison. Look at how formidable he is in battle at the moment. Does he look poisoned?"


    "That''s true. It''s no wonder he dared to claim that he could fight all of us alone."


    "Oh no!"


    "Old Fiend Fang is in trouble!"


    "Bam!"


    Qin Yun and Fang Chenshu were fighting in midair while exchanging blows at rapid speeds. But suddenly, Qin Yun withdrew his sword and retreated.


    Fang Chenshu held his neck as blood spurted out. Sword Qi had long penetrated his body, destroying his innards.


    "You, you¡­" Fang Chenshu stared at Qin Yun with widened eyes. "You are at the Paramount¡­" Following that, his eyes dimmed as he plummeted to the ground. The Fiend Imbibing Saber beside him fell as well.


    Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    "I''m not at the Paramount realm but instead, I have stepped into the Dao. All I did was to measure the strength of an expert at the Earth roll in this world by exchanging a few blows with you. You are ranked fifty-seventh on the Earth roll and your intent domain is only a hundred feet. In terms of your realm, you are not inferior to Nine Mountain Island Lord or Matron Centaurea. But your actual combat strength is much weaker. Your strength might only match twenty or thirty percent of Matron Centaurea''s strength. After all, you lack divine powers and Dharma treasures." Qin Yun made the judgment.


    Following that, Qin Yun landed.


    "This world''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are just too thin. Even if there are Dharma spells passed down, their strength would be pathetic. Even flight requires one to use their intent domain to fly." Qin Yun sighed. Those Connate intent realm experts were unable to fly. As for controlling the Heaven and Earth powers? The terribly weak Heaven and Earth powers were unable to lift a person high enough or long enough to fly.


    Only domains were of use! If one''s domain was powerful enough, it could envelop a body to fly into the sky and burrow into the ground.


    ¡­


    Fang Chenshu''s corpse plummeted from midair with Qin Yun descending after him. The Blood Saber Palace troops had already fled to the mountainside. As for the Connate itinerant cultivators, the remaining Blood Saber Palace Elders, and the disciples, they were fleeing in panic. All of them scattered as they fled.


    "Fly into the sky and burrow into the ground."


    Upon seeing Qin Yun descent, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Zuo Tang, the five Elders, the inherited-teachings disciples, and the thousands of disciples looked up. All of them were extremely excited. Even the Elders that loathed Qin Yun previously were moved. They knew that with such an expert, it was akin to having an anchor for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    "Yiqiu." Zuo Tang went forward with a delighted expression. "Wonderful. Just wonderful. The Blood Saber Palace has suffered a double loss. Not only has it lost five Elders, even its Grand Elder, Fang Chenshu, has perished. Yiqiu, you will really become famous just from this battle alone."

 266 Ranking on the Earth Roll

    Chapter 266: Ranking on the Earth Roll


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The entire Zhou Mountain Sword Sect was jubilant. Although the disciples responsible for guarding the foot of the mountain were dead, the loss was negligible in the grand scheme of things. It was the Blood Saber Palace that truly suffered grave losses. It had sent five Connate experts, as well as Fang Chenshu, who was ranked on the Earth roll, to their deaths. Furthermore, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect ended up with a new expert entering the Earth roll. And from the looks of it, he was more powerful than the previous sect master, Feng Qingcang!


    "Elder Meng is too formidable. He fought fifteen Connate experts alone and sent the lot of them fleeing."


    "That Fang Chenshu was killed but Elder Meng was left unscathed. He seems to be stronger than Fang Chenshu."


    "Truly impressive."


    "Fairy Gong is probably deeply regretting her actions now."


    All the disciples were discussing fervently.


    Those that managed to be taken in as disciples of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had promising futures. They naturally did not want to see their backer collapse! And now, their backer had clearly gotten stronger.


    ¡­


    In the sect''s main hall.


    Sect Master Zuo Tang, the Elders, the inherited-teachings disciples, and Qin Yun were all gathered there.


    "Elder Meng, I apologize for anything that I might have said to upset you." A silver-haired elder cupped his hands and apologized.


    "Elder Meng¡­" Another Elder asked for forgiveness.


    "Master Uncle Zhang, as well as all of you Elders," said Qin Yun immediately. "I was indeed brash in the past and I did cause trouble for the sect. None of you can be blamed."


    Qin Yun bore no resentment.


    From Meng Yiqiu''s memories, back when he was an iconic force, all the Elders supported him and had designated him as the next sect master. Later on, he became infatuated with Fairy Gong and was fooled by her. Eventually, he was poisoned and crippled. He even implicated his master, causing trouble to befall the entire Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. How could the Elders not be hateful and angry towards him? Even so, all they did was ignore him. They did not force him to return the divine sword, Frost Sword. They planned on retrieving it after Meng Yiqiu died from the poison.


    "Yiqiu," said Zuo Tang with a smile. "Let''s put the past behind us. Although there have been some conflicts, you have improved after revitalizing yourself. If Master can see this from heaven, he is definitely very happy."


    "Elder Meng killed that Fang Chenshu and came out unscathed. Such strength makes him stronger than even Junior Brother Feng."


    "With Elder Meng around, our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect will prosper for a long time."


    The Elders were in extremely good moods.


    Although Connate experts had very long lifespans, the chances of dying were very high due to the constant life-and-death struggles! This made it so that many Connate experts found it difficult to make it to the end of their lifespans.


    "Everyone, our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect previously recognized Yiqiu as sect master." Zuo Tang looked around and said, "It was only because Yiqiu was poisoned that I became sect master. However, I brood over things day in and day out, doubting my strength and my ability to shoulder the heavy responsibility. Now that Yiqiu''s strength has recovered, I think the position of sect master should be returned to him."


    "Senior Brother, there''s no need." Qin Yun rejected it immediately.


    "Yiqiu, you are cured of your poison, aren''t you?" Zuo Tang answered with a question. In fact, they could tell he was. After all, even with a cultivation breakthrough, one would still be affected by a lethal poison. It would have been difficult to produce any strength, and impossible to kill Fang Chenshu with such an affliction.


    Qin Yun was slightly taken aback and nodded. "Yes, I chanced upon an opportunity and cured myself of the poison."


    "Since the poison is cured and Master always wished for you to take over as sect master, you might as well take the job now, considering how your strength is the greatest in the sect," said Zuo Tang. The other Elders also looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun said immediately, "While I was alone in the back mountains, my heart was as still as an ice mirror. There, my strength improved tremendously. To be honest, after experiencing so much, I really do not wish for mortal affairs to mar my heart anymore."


    "Oh?" Zuo Tang was surprised when he heard that.


    "Heart as still as an ice mirror¡­" The white-bearded Elder to the side said, "Disciple-Nephew Sect Master, Elder Meng''s Frost Sword Arts have been cultivated to the Ice Heart realm. Since he doesn''t like being affected by mortal affairs, I think we should abide by his wishes. This way, Elder Meng''s cultivation will continue smoothly."


    "Yes, we must not impede Elder Meng''s cultivation."


    The Elders agreed in unison.


    Qin Yun''s excuse of the Iceheart realm immediately received agreement from all parties. Even Zuo Tang did not press the matter. After all, Qin Yun''s strength was of utmost importance when it came to the fate of the sect.


    "Haha, Alright. I won''t press the issue," said Zuo Tang with a smile. "However, with Yiqiu''s present strength, he should be able to be a Grand Elder even if he doesn''t become the sect master, right?"


    "Yes."


    "Yes, definitely."


    "Finally, our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has a Grand Elder. The position of Grand Elder has been left vacant for more than fifty years." All the Elders were overjoyed.


    According to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s rules, the strongest person would become sect master. If one had the strength to be listed on the Earth roll, they would naturally become the Grand Elder. The sect having a Grand Elder also displayed the deep foundation the sect had.


    ¡­


    That night, Qin Yun and Zuo Tang went to Feng Qingcang''s grave.


    "Master, do you see it? Not only has Yiqiu been cured of his poison, his strength has also drastically improved. He''s now capable of being ranked on the Earth roll." Zuo Tang looked at the tomb with reddened eyes. He also thought of Feng Qingcang as a father.


    Qin Yun looked at the tomb too.


    The two left after paying their respects.


    "Senior Brother." Qin Yun walked as he spoke. "In a few more days, I plan on going to Sovereign Capital."


    "Sovereign Capital?" Zuo Tang was astonished. "Are you going there to see your sister?"


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    Sovereign Capital was the capital of the Chu empire. It was also the imperial capital of the previous kingdom that unified the world, the Grand Martial Kingdom. Now, the world was dominated by three factions. The Chu Kingdom ruled over almost half the world and had also situated its capital in Sovereign Capital. It was also the biggest city in the world. Meng Yiqiu''s sister, Meng Yuxiang, had married into the Quelling Duke''s Duan family, so she lived with him in Sovereign Capital.


    "Our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has people in Sovereign Capital. I will make the arrangements for you." Zuo Tang nodded.


    "I''ll bring two disciples with me on my trip to Sovereign Capital. I can teach them a little on the way," said Qin Yun.


    "Your two personal disciples?" asked Zuo Tang. "Liu Qingsha and Qi Meixia?"


    "One of them will be Liu Qingsha. Let the other one be Dong Wan," said Qin Yun. He decided to forgo Qi Meixia.


    "Dong Wan?" Zuo Tang''s eyes lit up as he nodded slightly.


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly. "Since I am taking control of this body, I should return a portion of the karma incurred! After all, in fifty years I¡¯ll disappear the moment I awaken from my dream. I should try my best to nurture experts for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Liu Qingsha is considered rather normal among the inherited-teachings disciples. If I nurture her well, there''s a chance of her reaching the Connate realm. It will be hard to determine if she can reach the intent domain realm. However, this Dong Wan is a genius of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s younger generation. He''s only at the eleventh stage of the Qi Refinement realm but he has already grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm. If he is properly nurtured, his future is limitless."


    Qin Yun was after all a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao. In terms of guidance, he was a lot more brilliant than the other Elders on Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    "I''ll put Dong Wan in your care when the time comes. But you have to ensure his safety when in Sovereign Capital," exhorted Zuo Tang.


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Okay," said Zuo Tang with a smile. "You killed five Connate experts in one go. Even Fang Chenshu fell under your hand. I wonder what your ranking on the Earth roll will be."


    Qin Yun thought nothing of it. He came to this world with his sights on gathering knowledge of this world''s close combat sword techniques.


    Firstly, the purpose of his trip to Sovereign Capital was to return any karma he had received. That was where Meng Yiqiu''s sister was after all. Secondly, there were all sorts of mighty and lowly factions entrenched in Sovereign Capital. It was easier for him to search for powerful manuals there.


    "The Earth roll is compiled by Peerless Manor. Every time one of the three kingdoms'' experts, the military experts, the various noble clans, the top sects, those with secret inheritances, and the many itinerant cultivators expose a tiny bit of their strength, Peerless Manor quickly makes records and adds to the compilation," said Zuo Tang with a smile. "Typically, only those at the intent domain realm can enter the Earth roll. The Earth roll had 102 people in the last gazette. Now with Fang Chenshu dead and your sudden rise, I wonder what the new Earth roll will look like."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    In his homeworld, the records of mighty figures were not as detailed.


    Of course, in his homeworld, the human experts such as those from the imperial government, Daoist, and Buddhist sects were easily gathered. The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, Heavenly Demon Palace, other itinerant demons, and even the Four Seas'' Water race made it difficult to create an overall ranking.


    However, this world was ruled by humans, with no demons at all. They were able to record all the figures at the intent domain realm and rank them according to their battle achievements and best skills.


    "I wonder what my ranking will be in the future." Qin Yun chuckled secretly.


    ******


    The Blood Saber Palace had led many Connate itinerant cultivators to attack the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect but they eventually escaped in abject defeat.


    Fang Chenshu and the other five Connate experts all died at the hands of Meng Yiqiu! This news rapidly spread across the world, causing the name Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu to be the topic of conversation once more.


    The last time it spread was due to Meng Yiqiu''s fatal poisoning that destined his doom. Many people sighed, while many others mocked him.


    This time, they spoke of how Meng Yiqiu revitalized himself and had a great increase in strength. He killed Connate intent realm figures with one strike, leaving people astounded. The news reached Meng Yiqiu''s sister, as well as Fairy Gong who had once spent loving days with Meng Yiqiu.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun couldn''t be bothered with the stir he caused. He focused on his training and stayed in the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, flipping through all the manuals the sword sect had.


    He planned to master the powerful sword techniques of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect before heading for Sovereign Capital.


    One day.


    Under the bright sunlight, Qin Yun was sitting on a chair, flipping through the Lockheaven Sword manual. As the Grand Elder, he naturally had access to all of the sect''s manuals.


    "This Lockheaven Sword is also one of the top three techniques of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. It is made up of seven main sword stances and is comprised of a total of 13,300 sword moves." Qin Yun flipped through the manual as he used a finger as though it was a sword, practicing and experimenting with it. The surroundings gradually formed a massive sphere with Sword Qi surging in a hundred-feet radius within.


    "Master." The green-dressed Liu Qingsha ran over from afar.


    Qin Yun stopped, and the gigantic sphere formed by Sword Qi dissipated. When Liu Qingsha saw this, she secretly clicked her tongue. "Lockheaven Sword. Master has easily cultivated it to such a stage?"


    "Qingsha, is there something?" asked Qin Yun.


    "This is the newest Earth roll." Liu Qingsha handed a thick tome to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun nodded and accepted it.


    The Earth roll tome was very thick. It showed the rankings, with detailed information about everyone listed. This resulted in its thickness.


    After flipping it open, Qin Yun quickly saw his placing.


    "Thirteenth on the Earth roll: ''Frost Sword'' Meng Yiqiu. Once poisoned by the lethal poison, Spring Wind Warmth. Had a fortuitous encounter and cured himself of his poison. It made his sword techniques improve drastically. Killed five Connate intent realm experts with one strike each. Killed ''Fiend Imbibing Saber'' Fang Chenshu after exchanging dozens of blows and was left unharmed. Currently the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder."


    That was the simple description on the ranking.


    There was more detailed information and a history after that. It even recorded his romantic history with Fairy Gong and his jealousy towards a love rival.

 267 Voyage to Sovereign Capital

    Chapter 267: Voyage to Sovereign Capital


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at the people ranked ahead of him on the Earth roll.


    "Although most cultivators in this world do not have powerful bodies, there are some who cultivate in secret heritages. They are few in number but those ranked in the Earth roll''s top ten have had special experiences and possess formidable means," thought Qin Yun. "If I had a powerful body, an opponent at the same level would find it difficult to kill me. I could disregard a hundred or even a thousand slashes but a single strike from me would take my opponent¡¯s life. It''s no wonder they are ranked so high on the rankings."


    "If this were my homeworld, those with weaker bodies would use talisman amulets and Dharma spells to keep up. If not that, they would use their Dharma treasures to fight from a distance away. However, this world doesn''t have divine powers or Dharma spells. All they engage in is close combat. It gives those with powerful bodies a striking advantage."


    Qin Yun sighed as he looked at the rankings.


    The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were thin so divine powers and Dharma spells were nonexistent. If his homeworld were to exist for several hundreds of millennia more, it might also end up in the same state.


    However, the development of close combat arts was extremely substantial. It was very appealing to him, as a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao. So much so that he wanted to travel to Sovereign Capital in search of more manuals.


    ******


    Three months later.


    On a river.


    A large cruise ship was heading east along the river towards Sovereign Capital. It was the ship that Qin Yun, Liu Qingsha, and Dong Wan were on. There were obviously sailors and female attendants on board, all arranged by the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect ahead of time. The ship was also equipped with a chef that prepared delicacies every day. On the voyage, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would even send people to deliver fresh produce to the ship.


    Qin Yun was enjoying some drinks while taking in the scenery of the two riverbanks. It was beautiful, with all sorts of bestial and avian sounds that could be heard coming from the woods along the river.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun, who was enjoying the scenery, suddenly frowned as he looked at the river up ahead. There was a large ship being obstructed by many tiny boats. Experts from the tiny boats leaped onto the large ship and began an attack.


    "Dong Wan, go ahead and see what''s the matter," instructed Qin Yun.


    On the main deck, a youth dressed in an azure-robe, Dong Wan, stood up and grabbed his sword. He immediately accepted the order respectfully. "Yes, Elder."


    The ship moved rapidly down the river.


    Dong Wan shouted from afar, "The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect needs to pass. All parties are to make way!"


    His voice rumbled forward.


    "Brother, a ship from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect!"


    "So what if it''s the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect? How can our Gigantic Shark Sect be afraid of it? At best, we¡¯ll give them the mercy of not being robbed. But they want us to make way?"


    "That''s quite a biting tone. This is our Gigantic Shark Sect''s territory."


    A group of experts on the river banks was only there to watch the battle. When they heard the rumbling voice, their expressions changed drastically. The Gigantic Shark Sect was a large local sect and their sect master was a Connate intent realm expert. They also had dozens of perfected Postnatal realm experts in the sect. With thousands of members, it was one of the more famous sects in the surrounding hundred kilometers.


    The Gigantic Shark Sect''s sect master, Guiyong, had a large ugly scar on his face. He looked coldly at the distant cruise ship that Qin Yun was on when he instructed, "Third Brother, go take a look. See who is it from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. That''s quite a demanding tone."


    "Yes, Brother." Immediately, a lanky man responded. Following that, he dashed across the river towards the distant Zhou Mountain Sword Sect ship, leaving shadows in his wake.


    When he came hundreds of feet away from it, he stood on the surface of the lake and looked at the ship. Dong Wan, who was standing on the deck with sword in hand gave the lanky man a fright. He immediately shouted, "I''m Qiancong from the Gigantic Shark Sect. Is that Lockheaven Sword, Young Hero Dong?"


    Dong Wan had grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm by the age of twenty-five. He was quite famous in the world.


    "That''s me. My sect''s Grand Elder is on the ship with me. Is your Gigantic Shark Sect going to make way quickly?" shouted Dong Wan coldly.


    "Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder?" The lanky man felt his heart skip a beat. He immediately shouted, "Yes, yes. We will immediately make way."


    Sou!


    The lanky man rapidly crossed the river while shouting. "Men! Retreat! All of you, retreat!"


    "Retreat?"


    The sect members on the tiny boats were perplexed. Some had already charged up the merchant ship.


    "Old Qian, you are calling for us to retreat?" shouted an ax-wielding stocky bald man on the merchant ship.


    "Helmsman Liu, retreat! Quickly retreat!" shouted the lanky man angrily.


    The bald man was somewhat perplexed. However, faced with the deputy sect master''s angry tirade, he had no choice but to obey.


    "Let''s go! Retreat!"


    "Retreat!"


    The three helmsmen on the merchant ship begrudgingly led their men to take whatever treasures they could grab and disembark the ship before breaking away.


    There were many guards doing their best to protect their charge on the merchant ship. The magnate, Wanghai, was still cowering in fear with his family. He did not care for the treasures that were taken away outside. The most important treasures were carried on him.


    "My Ju family was fleeing as fugitives, but somehow the Gigantic Shark Sect learned of our location. They came to plunder our riches." Wanghai, his wife, and daughter watched as the tiny boats on the river departed rapidly. "I pleaded with them for mercy and even made a failed attempt to bribe them. Why are they retreating now?"


    "Father, are they all gone?"


    "Yes, they are gone."


    The family was still reeling in panic.


    As for the Gigantic Shark Sect''s sect master and company on the river bank, they received the report from Qiancong. "Sect Master, that ship has Lockheaven Sword, Dong Wan, as well as the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder, Meng Yiqiu."


    "Meng Yiqiu?" Guiyong''s ugly face revealed a look of shock. He immediately shouted, "Fifth Sister, quickly prepare some treasures. There''s no need for a lot but it can''t be too little either. Make it worth around ten thousand taels. And be quick about it. We have to apologize."


    "Yes." Fifth Sister was a beautiful woman. A beauty was obviously needed when apologizing.


    "Meng Yiqiu?"


    "The Grand Elder of the Blood Saber Palace, Fang Chenshu, was killed by Meng Yiqiu who remained unscathed."


    "Back then, he fought one against fifteen. All fifteen of them were Connate experts. One strike a person, and five of them died instantly. Five Connate intent realm experts fell one after another. Terrifying."


    The Gigantic Shark Sect members trembled in fear.


    To survive in this pugilistic world, the most important thing was to have a discerning eye! One had to receive accurate intelligence or one might end up offending a terrifying figure without knowing it, immediately causing a calamity to befall them. For example, Meng Yiqiu could have easily wiped out their Gigantic Shark Sect. The sect master, Guiyong, would not even survive one strike from Meng Yiqiu! The Gigantic Shark Sect naturally had to act obsequiously in front of such an existence.


    Soon, the Gigantic Shark Sect had prepared the gifts.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Guiyong brought Fifth Sister with him as they sat on a boat. With his Connate Quintessential Essence, he steered the boat rapidly forward. It went straight for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect cruise ship. It stopped only when it was about a hundred feet away.


    "I stand before you humbly as Guiyong from the Gigantic Shark Sect. I''m terribly sorry for disturbing Young Master Meng and causing any unrest just now. I have specially brought some gifts with me to seek your forgiveness." Guiyong''s ugly face was beaming with a smile as he bowed respectfully. Fifth Sister immediately went forward. After two taps on the river surface with her feet, she leaped onto the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect ship''s deck, handing over a box respectfully.


    "Alright, you may leave." Dong Wan instructed indifferently as a female attendant received the gift.


    "Yes." Fifth Sister smiled as she quickly retreated back onto the small boat.


    Guiyong kept up the warm and respectful look on his face. He controlled his boat to stay far away as he watched the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s cruise ship depart.


    "Phew."


    Only then did Guiyong heave a sigh of relief.


    "Brother, by retreating we are already giving this Young Master Meng face. Why do we need to make recompense?" asked Fifth Sister to the side.


    "What do you know?" said Guiyong. "Back when this Young Master Meng was poisoned, his beloved abandoned him. His master died because of him. After experiencing so much hardship, do you know what personality he might have now? He might have become a ruthless person who will not rest until he achieves his revenge. Although we withdrew as much as we could, that Young Master Meng might think that we are not giving him face if we didn''t take the initiative to make recompense. He might one day rob me of my life in passing."


    Guiyong sighed. "Anyways, in front of such an expert, one has to give them their due respects. He must not be slighted. Besides, no one would find fault in receiving too many gifts!"


    "I understand." Fifth Sister nodded.


    ¡­


    "So it''s the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder, Meng Yiqiu." Wanghai understood the moment he saw the scene play out. He could not help but beam with delight. "It''s our great luck we encountered him. As long as we follow behind his ship¡ªnot too close, just a thousand feet away¡ªit will be enough to ensure that no one will dare attack us."


    "Meng Yiqiu? The Meng Yiqiu who destroyed his future prospects by being poisoned because of Fairy Gong?" said a girl to the side.


    "Shut up!" Wanghai glared at her.


    The girl immediately covered her mouth.


    "I have to send some gifts. Don''t you mess things up for me! My wife, watch this lass well." Wanghai immediately led two subordinates and rode a boat to Qin Yun''s ship to deliver some gifts of appreciation.


    ******


    Moments later.


    Qin Yun was enjoying his drinks while Liu Qingsha chatted with him. At that moment, Dong Wan carried two boxes over and said politely, "Elder, this is compensation from the Gigantic Shark Sect. And this is a gift of appreciation from the shipowner up ahead, Wanghai." With that said, he opened the two boxes. Inside one of them was a pearl the size of a fist. It was indeed rare and was worth more than ten thousand taels of silver.


    Ten thousand taels of silver was a considerable amount. However, it was easy for the Gigantic Shark Sect to produce it.


    And in the other box was a piece of white jade the size of a palm. The jade had a faint shimmering splendor, for it contained spiritual energies. It was worth tens of thousands of taels in silver as well.


    "A magnate is giving such a sizable gift of appreciation?" Qin Yun was somewhat surprised.


    Dong Wan said with a smile, "I''m guessing Wanghai wants to follow us. By doing so, his safety is ensured. He''s probably wary of offending us, so he sent such a considerable gift."


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded.


    Indeed.


    The ship ahead was beginning to decelerate. It did not dare to stay ahead and allowed Qin Yun''s ship to pass. Wanghai''s ship followed about a thousand feet behind. Even if one had a bad temper, one would not mind after receiving such a sizable gift. Besides, they were staying a thousand feet behind. And true enough, Wanghai''s family did not encounter any further trouble for the rest of the voyage.


    Several days later.


    "I''ve finally arrived in Sovereign Capital." Qin Yun walked to the deck and looked up ahead. There was a massive and majestic city in front of him. Sovereign Capital had been the capital of many kingdoms in history. It had a long history and a current population of ten million. It could be considered as the number one city in the present world.


    ¡­


    And on the eastern pier of Sovereign Capital.


    The Quelling Duke''s family, the Duan family, was already waiting there. There were guards on two sides, and in the middle there was a group of luxuriously-dressed men and women. Meng Yuxiang was escorted as two beautiful female attendants stood by her side. Also there was the second young master, Duan Qifeng, who escorted his wife gingerly. Ever since the news of Meng Yiqiu killing Fang Chenshu spread, Meng Yuxiang''s standing in the Duan family, which had been declining drastically, soared. The matriarch of the Duan family turned more cordial to Meng Yuxiang. The various members of the harem also treated Meng Yuxiang with greater respect. Even the amorous Second Young Master Duan paid more attention to his wife.


    "According to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, my brother will arrive sometime soon." Meng Yuxiang looked up. She knew very well that the Duan family treated her this way because of her brother.

 268 Talk of the Town

    Chapter 268: Talk of the Town


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Standing beside her, Duan Qifeng said with a smile, "My wife, there''s no need to worry. Just wait patiently. Brother Meng will be here soon."


    Meng Yuxiang shot a glance at her husband and said nothing.


    The men and women around were all waiting patiently.


    "It''s coming."


    "The ship from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect!"


    Soon, they saw the large cruise ship approaching from afar. On the bow of the boat stood a man dressed in a simple robe. A sword hung by his side and standing beside him was a young man and woman. All of them had an extraordinary bearing.


    "Brother!" Meng Yuxiang''s eyes lit up.


    Immediately, the large group of Duan family members went forward, reaching the foremost point of the eastern pier. At that moment, all the other boats could only steer to the side, allowing the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s ship to dock.


    "Greetings, Young Master Meng." Leading the Duan family entourage was a middle-aged man. He was also the present head of the Duan family¡ªDuan Qiyu.


    "Brother!" Meng Yuxiang''s eyes turned red from excitement. She had experienced the fickleness of human nature in the past year, making her realize that her elder brother was her most important relative in the world.


    Qin Yun reached the dock in one step.


    Meng Yuxiang immediately ran to her brother and hugged him, unable to stop her tears from flowing.


    "Sister, don''t cry." Qin Yun consoled her. In his memories, Meng Yiqiu and his sister had a close relationship. They depended on one another from a young age.


    "Brother Meng." Duan Qifeng went forward with a sycophantic smile.


    "Hmph!" Qin Yun gave him a cold glance in return.


    Duan Qifeng felt somewhat embarrassed. After Meng Yiqiu was poisoned, he had indeed done many things that dampened Meng Yuxiang''s heart.


    Meng Yuxiang looked up with reddened eyes but she could not hide her excitement and happiness. "Brother, you look much better than half a year ago. I''m so happy that you managed to get a grip on yourself."


    Half a year ago, Meng Yuxiang tried everything she could think of to obtain the Duan family''s permission to leave Sovereign Capital. She went to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect to visit her brother. Back then, Meng Yiqiu was extremely dispirited. All she could do was leave sadly after paying him a visit. After all, she was someone else''s wife. It was not easy for her to make the trip and she could not spend too much time away from home.


    "I heard what has happened to you. Don''t worry. I will demand justice for you! However, I never expected Duan Qifeng to be such a sweet talker only to really end up being this bold." Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. As the Grand Elder of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, he received detailed updates on what happened to Meng Yuxiang in the Duan family. He was rather vexed when he learned of it.


    "He treats me alright," said Meng Yuxiang immediately. The man was still her husband and the father of her child despite how displeased she was with him.


    "Brother Meng, it was all my fault." Duan Qifeng apologized. "I''m willing to be punished for my sins!"


    Meng Yuxiang beckoned, and her personal maidservant brought a young girl over. Meng Yuxiang held the girl''s hands and smiled at Qin Yun. "Brother, this is my daughter, Tong''er. Tong''er, call him uncle."


    "Uncle." The girl was about four or five years old.


    "Tong''er, I''ve brought you a gift." Qin Yun took out a cloth bag and removed a jade pendant from it. He helped put the pendant on her.


    By the side, the Duan family head, Duan Qiyu, had been watching before he came forward and said with a smile. "Young Master Meng, why don''t we first head to Duke Manor?"


    "Yes, let¡¯s not stand here. We are holding up the dock." Qin Yun nodded. At the same time, he glanced at Dong Wan and instructed, "Dong Wan, arrange for a place to stay. I''ll return with Qingsha tonight."


    "Yes."


    Dong Wan heeded the order. He immediately met up with the people responsible for receiving the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    Qin Yun and Liu Qingsha got onto a carriage and headed with the Duan family to Quelling Duke Manor.


    ¡­


    Not long after Qin Yun and company departed, the tycoon, Wanghai, and his family disembarked from their ship with a group of guards.


    "We are finally here in Sovereign Capital." Wanghai smiled. "This is Sovereign Capital. The normal riffraff will not dare cause trouble here."


    Following that, he led his family into the city.


    ******


    Sovereign Capital.


    "Your Highness, Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu has arrived in Sovereign Capital. The Duan family went to receive him. He will soon arrive in Quelling Duke Manor," reported a goateed elder respectfully.


    "Meng Yiqiu?" The Crown Prince was wielding a brush, creating forceful strokes when he suddenly stopped. He said with a smile, "He''s young and cultivates in a heritage that''s not considered a secret; yet, he is ranked thirteenth on the Earth roll. He is a rare expert. Arrange a meeting for me¡­ I would like to meet this Frost Sword."


    "Yes," replied the goateed elder respectfully.


    ¡­


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu? He came to Sovereign Capital?" A brawny elder on a training ground stopped his spear practice when he heard that. He frowned and said, "His Majesty''s health is going from bad to worse every day. His Highness, Eighth Prince, has an extremely strong faction backing him. His contention against Crown Prince for the throne is getting more blatant. His Majesty can''t even prevent it. The Wei Kingdom and the Yan Kingdom are also secretly inciting trouble. I wonder what the purpose of Meng Yiqiu''s arrival in Sovereign Capital is."


    "Grand General, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has always been loyal to the royal family. It tends to stay silent in disputes such as that of the Crown Prince and Eighth Prince. However, the Quelling Duke''s Duan family stands on Crown Prince''s side. Meng Yiqiu''s sister has married into Quelling Duke Manor. At this critical point, his purpose in coming to Sovereign Capital¡­ is truly hard to tell," said a middle-aged man to the side as he frowned.


    The brawny elder frowned. "I do not care which prince inherits the throne. What I''m most worried about is¡­ the Wei Kingdom''s eagerness for action. Something seems amiss."


    "Grand General, do you mean¡­" The middle-aged man was alarmed.


    "First, it was Feng Qingcang''s murder. Later the Blood Saber Palace attacked the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. The northern defending general, Wang Chunyu, was assassinated too. Eighth Prince has a mysterious master that vaguely reminds me of an old fellow from the Wei Kingdom from more than a century ago¡­ There are many signs that make me feel as though the Wei Kingdom is scheming some sort of conspiracy." The brawny elder''s eyes were filled with worry.


    "Grand General, as long as you are here, there will be no trouble in Sovereign Capital," said the middle-aged man immediately.


    The brawny elder chuckled.


    He was the anchor of the entire Chu Kingdom, Grand General Xue Chong, ranked eighth on the Heaven roll!


    ¡­


    In Sovereign Capital, there was a rather famous brothel, Myriad Flower Brothel.


    Three men were in one of its rooms.


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu is here in Sovereign Capital."


    "Hmph, the last time the Blood Saber Palace attacked the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, not only did they fail, they even suffered abject losses. Even Fang Chenshu lost his life."


    "That''s right. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect is a sect that pledges utmost allegiance to King Chu. Of all the sects in the southwest, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has the deepest roots. If the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect is destroyed, it will make it much easier to occupy the southwestern lands. This Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu¡­ will be one of the main obstacles in our Wei Kingdom''s bid to rule the world."


    "It has always been quite difficult to assassinate Meng Yiqiu when he was in the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. As for a direct assault? That would be almost impossible. But now that he is in Sovereign Capital without an army of experts around him, I think we can find a way to assassinate him."


    "He is ranked thirteenth on the Earth roll. Even an assassination would prove very difficult."


    "Didn''t he get poisoned in the past? He''s still a foolish youngster. Think of a way. Use poison or some other method. There''s definitely a chance."


    "I think we should report this matter to the Wei capital. Let it give the order."


    "I think it''s best we report it to the Wei capital. It would make sense to ambush such an expert, but if we do, we must be certain of success."


    The trio quickly made a decision.


    They would report the matter to the Wei capital.


    ¡­


    In an elegant yard in Sovereign Capital.


    This was one of the places where the top sect, Centaurea Valley, stationed itself.


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu is here in Sovereign Capital? He and my senior sister Gong Yan''er were old lovers!" A black-dressed girl said with a smile. "Back then, the couple was deeply in love. If Senior Sister Gong learns that Meng Yiqiu is here in Sovereign Capital, she will definitely be overjoyed. Quickly pass the information to Centaurea Valley. Tell Centaurea Valley as well as Senior Sister Gong for me. Tell the Valley Lordess about this matter too."


    "Yes, I''ll send the message," said a woman beside her.


    The black-dressed girl nodded. Following that, she instructed a maidservant beside her. "I''m changing. I still need to meet the marquis¡¯s son tonight."


    "Yes, Miss," replied the maidservant with a smile immediately.


    ******


    It was the talk of the town but Qin Yun did not care for it.


    At that moment in Quelling Duke Manor, a large group of people were caught up in a frenzy of activity. The Quelling Duke Manor''s matriarch, the sons, and even the grandsons of the various members of the harem and womenfolk were there. There were many beauties among them. Many juniors looked curiously at the simply-dressed man''s arrival.


    Their family''s head, Duan Qiyu, and Matriarch were welcoming him warmly.


    Qin Yun greeted, "Greetings, Matriarch."


    "Young Master Meng''s presence here graces my Duan family." The matriarch had been in power for more than a century. She knew very well that official government or aristocratic titles were useless. Strength was what mattered. Meng Yiqiu, who became thirteenth on the Earth roll at such a young age, was worthy of being welcomed by King Chu. In the future, if he continued to improve, he could enter the Heaven roll. Then he would be a hegemon existence that could shake up the world''s distribution of power.


    Meng Yuxiang stayed by her brother''s side, feeling more and more pleased.


    Qin Yun entered Quelling Duke Manor with an entourage of people.

 269 In front of Xiyu Establishmen

    Chapter 269: In front of Xiyu Establishment


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Is that Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu?"


    "He looks so young. It''s like he''s twenty."


    "What do you know? Powerful cultivators all have long lives. He obviously will look young."


    There were many women in Quelling Duke Manor. From afar, a bevy of girls watched and giggled as Matriarch and Duan Qiyu accompanied Meng Yiqiu. Many of the girls were blushing. Firstly, Meng Yiqiu looked as young as them and secondly, after he experienced the torment of being poisoned, Meng Yiqiu had become thinner. Qin Yun taking over also made his bearing even more extraordinary since he was a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao.


    What young lady would not be interested in him?


    Looks, bearing, strength, status¡­ Immediately, many young ladies had their hearts stirred.


    "Many of these lasses are becoming infatuated but my brother has very high standards." Meng Yuxiang shot a glance at the distant girls and could not help but sigh. "But speaking of which, my brother is already thirty-eight this year. It''s about time he gets married. There are so many beauties in Sovereign Capital. I must find him someone appropriate."


    As the only relative of Meng Yiqiu, Meng Yuxiang immediately thought of helping her brother find a wife.


    ¡­


    "Brother, have a seat. This is where I usually do calligraphy and paint." Meng Yuxiang brought Qin Yun to a particular building. At that moment, Duan Qifeng and some others were acting as the entourage of the brother-sister duo. As for people like the Duan family''s matriarch and the Duan family head, Duan Qiyu, they had already left.


    "The rest of you can leave first." After Qin Yun sat down, he gave a nonchalant instruction. "Sister and Qifeng, stay behind."


    Duan Qifeng''s harem, the children, and the maidservants were taken aback.


    "Leave now!" Duan Qifeng urged.


    Immediately, they all left obediently, leaving only Qin Yun, Meng Yuxiang, and Duan Qifeng in the room. Even Liu Qingsha was left waiting outside.


    "Brother Meng," said Duan Qifeng with a sycophantic smile.


    "You sure are gutsy." Qin Yun looked at him coldly. "It wasn''t enough for you to bully my sister in Quelling Duke Manor. You even permitted others to beat and bully your wife outside of the house. You never helped your wife and instead helped an outsider?"


    Meng Yuxiang could not help but tear up.


    Indeed, she could not forget that day. She became the laughing stock of the Sovereign Capital that day! She even had thoughts of killing herself to end it all. But when she remembered her young daughter, she decided to live on for her sake. Even the other members of the harem in Quelling Duke Manor belittled her¡­ After all, if her husband did not care for her, who else would? Thankfully, her brother had not only cured himself of his poison, he also became a terrifying existence that ranked on the Earth roll. Even the Duan family''s head, Duan Qiyu, and the matriarch began to treat her well.


    Thump!


    Duan Qifeng immediately knelt down and said, "Brother Meng, it was my fault. It was all my fault. That bitch pulled the wool over my eyes. I let down Yuxiang." As he said that, he slapped himself hard in the face. Slap! Slap! Slap! He did so more than twenty times till his face swelled up. Qin Yun did not call for him to stop and neither did Meng Yuxiang. However, Duan Qifeng eventually could not bear the pain and stopped himself.


    "I was wrong. I know I was wrong. I already obey Yuxiang in every way," said Duan Qifeng immediately.


    "Why did you stop? Finish a hundred slaps," said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Brother, he doesn¡¯t-" began Meng Yuxiang.


    "Continue!" Qin Yun said coldly.


    "Yes." Duan Qifeng had no choice but to continue slapping himself. After a hundred slaps were delivered by his own hand, his mouth was bleeding. Meng Yuxiang could not help but produce a handkerchief to wipe the blood away from his mouth. Duan Qifeng squeezed out a smile from his red, swollen face. "Thank you, Yuxiang."


    Meng Yuxiang''s anger and unwillingness to take it lying down were now replaced by pity for him.


    When Qin Yun saw this, he shook his head secretly. "The previous Meng Yiqiu truly did not have a discerning eye. This Second Young Master Duan was able to fool Meng Yiqiu with his fine rhetoric and also made him agree to the marriage. In truth, he is nothing but a shameless casanova."


    "The reason why you got your subordinates to beat my sister is because of Sovereign Capital''s master zither artist, Yan Xiyu?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes, it was that bitch," replied Duan Qifeng immediately.


    From the side, Meng Yuxiang could not help but comment. "You keep calling her bitch now, but back then you placed her on a high pedestal. You spent lots of silver on her. Aren''t you like this now only because she has found someone better and doesn''t want you?"


    Duan Qifeng immediately turned embarrassed.


    "Sister, let''s go. Let''s go to see this Artist Yan." Qin Yun stood up.


    "Now?" Meng Yuxiang''s eyes lit up.


    "Revenge should be taken care of as early as possible," said Qin Yun.


    "That''s right. It''s best to do it early." Duan Qifeng immediately stood up.


    Qin Yun and Meng Yuxiang could not help but shoot him a cold glance. Meng Yuxiang flatly replied, "You were with her in the past."


    "That was just me being foolish," said Duan Qifeng.


    Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    "Let''s go."


    ¡­


    That afternoon, in the famous Xiyu Establishment in Sovereign Capital.


    There were numerous beauties in Xiyu Establishment. However, these beauties only played instruments like the zither, flute, pipa, and guzheng. Their performance was even done on a stage in the middle of Xiyu Establishment. The customers had no chance to even touch them. Of course, those who held wealth and power in Sovereign Capital definitely had the means to fool around with these beauties.


    The owner of Xiyu Establishment was Sovereign Capital''s master zither artist, Yan Xiyu. She was past thirty but remained as pretty as a flower.


    "Whoosh~"


    A large group of experts quickly surrounded Xiyu Establishment.


    "What happened?"


    "Why is it being surrounded?"


    "It looks like the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples." The customers were trembling with fear. It was one of the eight biggest sects in the Chu Kingdom after all. Even King Chu would have to entertain the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect since not all the big sects were willing to work for King Chu! For example, top sects like Peerless Manor did not care about the rise and fall of a dynasty. Regardless of who held the throne, a sect could remain powerful. However, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s roots were relatively weaker. It still relied on the king''s authority to possess its present might.


    "The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has something to take care of here. Those uninvolved are to leave quickly."


    Immediately, the disciple leading the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect members roared angrily.


    "Yes, yes!"


    "We won''t be disturbing you any further." Customers began to leave quickly and obediently.


    Qin Yun and Meng Yuxiang disembarked a carriage.


    Accompanying them was Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and Duan Qifeng.


    Qin Yun looked at Xiyu Establishment as he entered. The beautiful female musicians inside were horrified. As for the guards inside Xiyu Establishment, they could only smile obsequiously.


    Soon, Xiyu Establishment''s owner, Yan Xiyu, appeared with her female attendants.


    "Yan Xiyu!" Meng Yuxiang''s eyes turned red. The scenes from that fateful day surfaced in her mind as she clung tightly to her brother''s arm.


    Qin Yun gently patted Meng Yuxiang''s hands. He had received the reports and obviously knew what occurred that day. He had to stand up for her even if it meant suffering the karma of the body he was in.


    "Greetings, Young Master Meng." Yan Xiyu had a slender waist and long legs. She stood gracefully and had skin as white as snow. With her unique disposition as a master zither artist, she was indeed a rare beauty. It was no wonder she was so famous in Sovereign Capital. Qin Yun also had to admit that in terms of looks, Meng Yuxiang might not be inferior to Yan Xiyu. However, Meng Yuxiang had a poised nobility to her while Yan Xiyu had a dreamlike disposition that made her seem unattainable and therefore more attractive.


    "Before, my younger sister came to take her husband home. Yet, you got your subordinates to beat my sister? I don''t think I''ve ever maligned you, have I?" Qin Yun looked at her.


    Yan Xiyu was grumbling inwardly.


    She was a master artist in Sovereign Capital. She naturally didn''t think much of a woman whose husband didn''t care for her. Of course she had her subordinates throw her out.


    "That was ordered by Second Young Master Duan," said Yan Xiyu immediately. "He did not want to be disturbed."


    "I did not give that instruction!" Duan Qifeng yelled immediately.


    Yan Xiyu''s eyes turned slightly red at that instant. "Second Young Master Duan, why are you¡­"


    "Regardless if it was Duan Qifeng or you who gave the orders¡­ the person who said ''beat this shrew out of here,'' was you, isn''t that true?" A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Yan Xiyu felt more aggrieved.


    "Xiyu, there''s no need to be afraid of Meng Yiqiu. Leave everything to me." A voice sounded in Yan Xiyu''s ears.


    Yan Xiyu smiled and said loudly, "Young Master Meng, my Xiyu Establishment was just conducting business as usual. Yet, Madam Duan came here to cause trouble. Even her husband, Second Young Master Duan, allowed us to throw this shrew out. I naturally gave the order. You can''t expect me to allow a shrew to cause trouble in my Xiyu Establishment, right?"


    Qin Yun turned his gaze towards the Xiyu Establishment''s interior.


    "Meng Yiqiu! I''m ashamed at your bullying of a woman!" A stocky man walked out of Xiyu Establishment''s interior. He was dressed in a shirt that revealed his chest. He had a resolute appearance and his eyes were filled with a domineering air. A sweep of his glance left the experts surrounding Xiyu Establishment trembling.


    "Brother Xiang." Yan Xiyu immediately came to the stocky man''s side and acted like a timid and lovable girl.


    "Xiang Tong?" remarked Qin Yun.


    "Yan Xiyu is now with Overlord Xiang?" Duan Qifeng''s expression turned pale.


    "Brother, there''s no need to risk your life for me," whispered Meng Yuxiang immediately.


    Xiang Tong was nicknamed Overlord Spear. He was ranked eighth on the Earth roll! He came from the ancient and mysterious Xiang family. His cultivation of his body was extremely powerful. Every generation of the Xiang family that could travel the world became experts. Their extremely powerful bodies gave them an overwhelming advantage in close combat.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Xiang Tong hugged Yan Xiyu and guffawed. "Meng Yiqiu, you were poisoned in the past because of a woman. It destroyed your future. I urge you not to stand up for a woman this time. If you lose your life, it will be too late for regret."


    "Do you have what it takes?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "Yes, I do!" Xiang Tong''s eyes suffused a purple light as his fighting spirit flared. "Why? Do you think that just because the Earth roll tabulated by Peerless Manor ranks you at thirteenth, that you are somehow comparable to my eighth place? Do you think you can defeat me? Hmph, you won''t be able to do anything to me even if your sword slashes at me a hundred times but I can take your life with one thrust of my spear."


    "Xiang Tong, I wonder if your fighting is as good as your bragging."


    Qin Yun''s body turned into a blur as he instantly approached Xiang Tong. At the same time, he drew Frost Sword from his waist.


    A blinding sword flash turned resplendent under the sunlight. At that instant, it streaked across the air.


    "Be careful." Xiang Tong immediately waved his hand and threw Yan Xiyu to a spot far away. At the same time, he used a single hand to block Qin Yun''s Frost Sword.


    "Bam!"


    Xiang Tong only felt his vision blur. Then, he felt a sword strike his chest as he was sent flying backward. He crashed through walls, wooden pillars, and rockery until he found his footing when he hit the Xiyu Establishment''s stage. He could not help but spew a mouthful of blood.


    Everyone stood in stunned silence upon seeing that scene.

 270 Battle on the Streets

    Chapter 270: Battle on the Streets


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Xiang Tong''s face flushed red as he stood on the stage. He bellowed, "Spear, come!"


    Sou!


    A raven black spear flew out from Xiyu Establishment''s interior right into Xiang Tong''s hands. It was very long, almost ten feet long. The furious Xiang Tong''s body bulged in size, growing a foot taller in the process! His skin suffused a black glow as he stared intently at Qin Yun and pointed his spear at him. He shouted, "Meng Yiqiu, your sword arts aren''t bad! But there must be a reason that the Peerless Manor ranked you thirteenth on the Earth roll while I was ranked eighth! Etiquette requires reciprocity. Since I received a strike from you, I shall return it in the same fashion!"


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    With a tap of his feet, there was a loud boom¡ª


    Xiang Tong''s entire body transformed into a beam of light that shot upwards at a stunning speed. Instantly, he had stormed out of Xiyu Establishment, cleaving down after raising his spear high up into the sky. His mighty cleave distorted the air, producing highly-pressured blasts of wind. Even the spear''s shaft bent as a result of the formidable force. Strong winds stirred with splashing raindrops!


    "Overlord Xiang." Duan Qifeng retreated in fear. The color in his face drained.


    "How terrifying." Meng Yuxiang could not help but hide behind Qin Yun.


    "Don''t worry."


    Qin Yun charged forward after assuring her.


    The Frost Sword in his hand swiped forward, producing frost around him. Vortices formed wherever the sword flash passed as the sword clashed with the spear.


    "Bam!"


    The Frost Sword and the raven black spear produced a muffled sound upon collision. The raven black spear brought with it a dominance that could render the world asunder, while the Frost Sword seemed to bring with it the undercurrent of an infinite tidal wave. When they clashed, Xiang Tong felt a belligerent force hit him. His hands turned numb as he retreated two steps. Each step caused the ground to crack.


    The street in front of Xiyu Establishment was a busy street in Sovereign Capital. It was paved with granite, but Xiang Tong left two craters as he retreated.


    Qin Yun also took two steps back. The ground quaked slightly but the granite ground remained intact.


    "Oh?" Xiang Tong''s pupils could not help but constrict when he saw this.


    "Having skilled moves doesn''t mean you can withstand a strike!" Xiang Tong roared as he charged over like a flood dragon.


    Qin Yun smiled as he immediately reciprocated.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    Xiang Tong fought extremely wildly. He had no concern for protecting his body and only focused on attacking! He allowed Qin Yun''s blows to strike him, clearly pressing the advantage of his strong body as he closed the gap with Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun was rather interested in this world''s close combat arts. Spear arts? Sword and spear arts had many things in common. A sword could even be considered a short spear.


    "This Xiang family has a long history in this world. It''s an extremely mysterious and ancient family clan. It also has a body Dharmic formulation passed down over generations. I can definitely learn something from his close combat arts." Qin Yun slashed with his Frost Sword, emanating frost outwards that completely repressed Xiang Tong. Even though Xiang Tong ignored his own safety to press forward, he was fully repressed. Qin Yun''s blade would even occasionally slice across Xiang Tong''s body, leaving gashes on him.


    Under such heavy repression, Xiang Tong turned more desperate. He used every technique he knew from his Cloud Rain Flood Dragon Spear.


    This battle was like a tumultuous storm, with wind and rain as well as a layer of frost that emanated throughout.


    Xiang Tong''s brandishing of his spear produced highly-pressured blasts of air that sliced through the surrounding ground. Scuffs appeared on the surrounding buildings. Instantly, all the spectators on the street retreated further and further back. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples also retreated a great distance. The guards, female attendants, and beautiful musicians inside Xiyu Establishment also hid far away as they watched.


    It wasn''t just them. The busy street had many people to begin with. Although the area had been surrounded by the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples, there were many passers-by watching from afar. People in the surrounding restaurants, shops, or residences were watching from the higher floors too.


    "Wow, who is fighting who? I can''t make it out at all."


    "The force blasts caused stone walls a hundred feet away to crumble. That''s way too terrifying."


    "It''s Grand Elder Meng Yiqiu from one of our Chu Kingdom''s top eight sects, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. The other one is a presiding expert from the legendary ancient Xiang family, Overlord Spear Xiang Tong."


    "It''s Xiang Tong? Back in the East Sea, Overlord Xiang once used a single spear to scare a hundred-thousand-strong army into fleeing. He even tore apart General Pang Shan. Not only did the imperial government place no blame on Xiang Tong, it even decreed that General Pang Shan had committed nine grave crimes. Many people from the Pang family were implicated as a result."


    "That''s the Xiang family! One of the two most ancient family clans in the world."


    "The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect is also powerful. It has thousands of disciples and it reigns supreme over its territory."


    ¡­


    The people in Sovereign Capital all knew of the legendary Heaven, Earth, and Man rolls. Even commoners would learn of it from their frequent visits to storytellers; therefore, they knew the many famous and terrifying existences in their world.


    However, their eyes were incapable of telling who was stronger in the street fight.


    "Who holds the advantage, my brother or Xiang Tong?" Meng Yuxiang was standing beside Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha as she asked worriedly.


    Dong Wan said with a smile, "Don''t worry. Elder Meng holds the absolute advantage."


    "But he still needs to be careful." Duan Qifeng was feeling unease as he said immediately. "That Xiang family cultivates in powerful body formulations. Xiang Tong''s body is extremely strong. Even if he is at a disadvantage, it''s nothing for him to receive ten to twenty blows. In comparison, Brother Meng''s body is much weaker. If he gets struck by that spear even once, he would be in grave danger."


    Meng Yuxiang turned anxious when she heard that.


    "That sounds logical," said Dong Wan with a smile. "However, you are incapable of reading the combat situation. Elder Meng''s sword arts far exceed his opponent''s. Xiang Tong has no chance of injuring Elder Meng at all. Look, Xiang Tong is already wearing down."


    "He can''t hold out anymore." Liu Qingsha gave a look of delight.


    ¡­


    "Why is he becoming stronger? Also, the might of his sword art is increasing too." Xiang Tong was panicking. A sword flash lacerated his body with a sharp ripping sound. His skin that suffused a raven black glow was harder than steel; yet, it had been torn apart. Qin Yun''s sword flashes brought with them an ice-cold aura that turned increasingly faster and sharper. It made Xiang Tong feel the icy-cold breath of death get closer to him.


    Without realizing it, he had been forced to use his spear solely for defense.


    Although his body was powerful, being stabbed in the heart or head would still rob him of his life. Most Earth roll experts would at most have their skin pricked. It was difficult to pierce their flesh, but Qin Yun''s sword flashes were clearly something else.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    Xiang Tong defended with all he had but Qin Yun''s attacks turned more aggressive. Xiang Tong''s limbs seemed to be thrown into confusion as a result.


    "Block, keep blocking. Continue blocking." Qin Yun''s attacks became stronger in order to force Xiang Tong to use all his moves.


    "From the looks of it, these are probably all the moves the Xiang family''s Cloud Rain Flood Dragon Spear has," Qin Yun thought to himself. "This set of spear arts is quite powerful. It''s like a flood dragon tearing through the clouds, moving in and out with great elusiveness. Its attacks pour down like a tempestuous rain while the flood dragon wreaks havoc. If I can obtain the manual of their spear arts, I could learn much by studying it carefully."


    "Pu!"


    A sword beam flashed over but Xiang Tong failed to block it. His arm was cleaved off, splattering fresh blood.


    "Escape!" Xiang Tong''s expression changed drastically. With a flushed face, he flew away as a beam of light. The arm also rapidly flew towards Xiang Tong, joining back to his stump. It healed rapidly.


    He quickly escaped half a kilometer away and landed in a secluded alley.


    Xiang Tong looked back and heaved a sigh of relief. "Thankfully, he didn''t chase after me. This Meng Yiqiu''s sword arts are too powerful. I tried to defend my vital spots with all my strength but he still managed to cleave off one of my arms. After losing an arm, my strength naturally decreases tremendously. If I continued fighting him, I might have lost my life."


    "I nearly lost my life for a plaything." Xiang Tong''s pupils constricted before he looked back. "He''s only thirty-eight. He didn¡¯t break through to the domain realm that long ago. Why is he so strong?"


    Sou!


    Xiang Tong phased away as he rapidly departed.


    ******


    Xiang Tong escaped after losing an arm. Of course, the arm was rapidly reattached, shocking the spectators.


    However, Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu was even more astonishing. After all, he was the one that cleaved off Xiang Tong''s arm, forcing him to flee.


    "If this Meng Yiqiu did not show mercy and continued with a relentless pursuit, he might have even been able to kill Xiang Tong."


    "Yes, if he''s able to cleave off Xiang Tong''s arm, he has a chance of taking Xiang Tong''s life."


    "That''s not necessarily true. Perhaps Meng Yiqiu''s flying speed is inferior to Overlord Xiang''s?"


    There were all sorts of discussions.


    And at that moment, the person wallowing in the most despair was Xiyu Establishment''s owner, Yan Xiyu. She saw Xiang Tong''s blood splatter from his arm stump as he fled in panic. Her heart chilled.


    "To Xiang Tong, I''m only a plaything. Against real trouble, he wouldn''t care about me at all." Yan Xiyu knew this very well. Her achievements in Sovereign Capital indicated that she was very clever. She reached her present situation by relying on many benefactors. Duan Qifeng from the Quelling Duke''s family was her lover for a very long period of time.


    Later, Xiang Tong arrived. Under his instruction, Yan Xiyu severed ties with all her other lovers.


    After all, compared to Xiang Tong¡­ Duan Qifeng was nothing!


    Even though she had someone to rely on, what sort of identity did Xiang Tong have? Yan Xiyu did not dare to announce it publicly!


    But now, even Xiang Tong had left her.


    Xiang Tong was a person who had sent a hundred-thousand-strong army fleeing. He even captured their general alive and ripped him apart. And in response, all King Chu did was pin crimes on the general.


    Xiang Tong had already fled. Who else was there to save her?


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang immediately came to Qin Yun''s side. She was very worried as she whispered, "Brother, don''t implicate yourself too much for my trivial disputes."


    She was truly afraid a moment ago, afraid that her brother would be seriously injured.


    Qin Yun smiled.


    In this world, only the few existences that had stepped into the Dao and were in the legendary God roll would force him to fight seriously. Xiang Tong was nothing worth mentioning. The reason why he even let Xiang Tong get away with his life was that Xiang Tong had no intention of killing Qin Yun. Therefore, Qin Yun spared him.


    It was normal in this world.


    They were both on the Earth roll! Some occasional bouts of jealousy were fine. But there was no need to fight with their lives! A true life-and-death struggle would result in a vendetta, and even if the weaker party was no match, they would be able to escape with their lives. There were many repercussions once they fled.


    "Plop!"


    Yan Xiyu suddenly knelt down. The rain from before had already drenched her hair and clothes wet. She knelt there and said immediately, "Young Master Meng, Madam Duan, it was my fault for having my nose in the air in the past. I fully submit to any punishment you have for me. I have no qualms even if you kill me." With that said, she prostrated herself, burying her head between her palms.


    "Sister, I''ll leave her to you," said Qin Yun." He did not find Yan Xiyu pitiable at all. Such a person was very ruthless to begin with. She was ruthless to others as well as to herself.

 271 Lockheaven Paramount realm

    Chapter 271: Lockheaven Paramount realm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Leaving her to me?" Meng Yuxiang''s eyes reddened.


    She could never forget that night.


    Her husband had spent the silver meant for daily necessities, causing the family to be hard-pressed for money. As she was the principal wife, the matriarch had blamed her for being useless, scorning her for her inability to reign in her husband as he spent large amounts of silver at Xiyu Establishment.


    Under that pressure, Meng Yuxiang had no choice but to go to Xiyu Establishment to bring her husband home!


    However, her husband hid away and refused to meet with her.


    Back then, she only heard Yan Xiyu''s voice: "Beat this shrew out of here." The bouncers of Xiyu Establishment beat her up and threw her out. It was pouring that fateful night. She fell to the ground after being thrown out and was left drenched on the streets. It was a wretched sight, one that was taken in by the many people who walked past Xiyu Establishment. Many people looked at her like she was a joke. Even her husband did not stand up for her.


    She felt her heart chill and wished to end her suffering by committing suicide! But when she looked into her young daughter¡¯s eyes, she knew her daughter would be left helpless without her.


    Therefore, she continued to drag out her ignoble existence.


    Later on, her brother Meng Yiqiu made a name for himself! Her position changed overnight. Even Duan Qifeng began to fawn over her. However, her feelings for him had died. She didn¡¯t want to become a widow but she did want him to suffer a little.


    "Brother, for this Yan Xiyu to make a name for herself here in Sovereign Capital, she must have entertained lots of lovers," whispered Meng Yuxiang. "Many of which are likely from royalty and top cultivation sects. Can I really deal with her as I please?"


    "Anyone with such fame in Sovereign Capital definitely has their backers." Qin Yun looked at Yan Xiyu and smiled. She was still motionless and prostrating herself. "But all you need to concern yourself with is dealing with her. No one will dare interfere!"


    Meng Yuxiang''s eyes lit up.


    "Men, take her back home." Meng Yuxiang''s eyes were filled with hate.


    "Yes." Immediately, servants from the Duan family went forward and grabbed Yan Xiyu.


    "How are you going to deal with me?" Yan Xiyu looked up and panicked. Taking her back to the Duan family? She thought she would be ridiculed by Meng Yuxiang, not end up dead. Even if she was disfigured, she could use treasures to treat herself! At the worst, she could still flee with her wealth.


    "Don''t worry, I''m not as heartless as you. I will not kill you. Take her away!" said Meng Yuxiang coldly.


    The Duan family servants dragged the disheartened Yan Xiyu away. She could not help but look at Duan Qifeng with a look of despair.


    "My wife." Duan Qifeng was rather delighted. Wouldn''t he be able to do anything to her while she was trapped in the Duan family?


    "Don''t bear any hopes of seeing her," said Meng Yuxiang.


    "Meet her once, you''ll have one leg broken," added Qin Yun to the side. "Meet her twice, you''ll have two legs broken. Meet her thrice¡­ three legs!"


    Qin Yun looked at him with a faint smile.


    Duan Qifeng immediately felt his groin turn cold as the hair on his back stood straight up. He gave an obsequious smile and did not dare say another word. He was aware that he had gotten in the bad books with his wife over the past year. If he didn''t behave properly, his brother-in-law would kill him and no one would even try to save him.


    After all, the influence the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had was of great importance to the Chu Kingdom. It was a lot bigger than the Quelling Duke''s Duan family. Furthermore, Meng Yiqiu was simply a terrifying existence.


    ******


    After sending his younger sister back to Quelling Duke Manor, Qin Yun returned to his residence. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had prepared a manor for him with many maidservants and servants to tend to him.


    "Elder, here we are."


    The horse-drawn carriage came to a halt.


    Qin Yun alighted the carriage and saw a eunuch standing in front of the manor. He had fair skin with no facial hair. He jovially went forward to bow and spoke with a sharp voice. "Elder Meng, I''m under orders by His Highness the Crown Prince to invite you to Yufeng Tower tomorrow night." With that said, he politely handed a letter of invitation.


    "The Crown Prince?" Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha, who were at his side, were somewhat alarmed. With King Chu''s health failing, he did not have much time left. The Crown Prince was likely to inherit the throne.


    "Tell His Highness that I''m very busy at the moment. We can decide on another date when I have the time," said Qin Yun as he walked straight into the manor.


    "About that¡­" The eunuch turned flustered but Qin Yun did not even turn his head back before he entered the manor.


    "Elder Meng! Elder Meng!" The eunuch wanted to head in but the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples at the entrance stopped him for entering.


    Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha exchanged looks before they stepped in.


    They had no right to determine if an audience with the Crown Prince would happen.


    "Sigh."


    When the eunuch saw this, he could only leave helplessly.


    When Qin Yun walked into the manor, he shook his head gently. "The Crown Prince? No matter who becomes the king of the Chu Kingdom, he will have to establish ties with the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Since that¡¯s the case¡­ why should my Zhou Mountain Sword Sect involve itself in the vying of the throne?" Qin Yun had the confidence to act as he pleased. However, he was only staying in this world for fifty years. Out of consideration for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, it was best he did not involve himself.


    ¡­


    "Your Highness, Elder Meng gave the excuse that he is very busy at the moment. He said that another date can be decided when he has the time," said the eunuch softly.


    The Crown Prince looked at the piece of paper in his hand before snorting coldly. "That Frost Sword just defeated Xiang Tong in front of Xiyu Establishment and even sent him fleeing after cleaving off his arm¡­ He naturally has what it takes to ignore me. However, when I inherit the throne, his Zhou Mountain Sword Sect will naturally come to me with requests. Hmph, without the aid of the imperial government, his Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would not be enjoying the prestige it currently has."


    "Yes, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect completely relies on the imperial government. Your Highness is the heir apparent and will be the future king! Even so, he actually dared to ignore your invitation." The eunuch found it unacceptable.


    "Enough, enough. You may take your leave." The Crown Prince was not in a good mood.


    He was the heir designate and had many supporters. It was only right for him to inherit the throne.


    However, the current Eighth Prince had amassed a mighty faction. His master was ranked on the Heaven roll! This made the Crown Prince feel extreme pressure.


    *****


    The next morning, which was also the first morning since Qin Yun came to Sovereign Capital, Qin Yun resumed his daily routine of practicing his sword first thing.


    "Swoosh!"


    As Qin Yun practiced, a gigantic sphere of Sword Qi enveloped his surroundings. The sword flashes were extremely dense.


    The Lockheaven Sword had a total of 13,300 moves and they were deliberately meant to be a continuous series of moves. However, Qin Yun was casually making combinations out of them as though they were gurgling streams of water. It appeared very gentle but he had actually formed seven great sword stances! The seven sword stances appeared as different lines that formed a gigantic net that enveloped the surroundings. The Lockheaven Sword¡­ was best at control! It controlled the situation in battle!


    First was control, followed by decimation.


    "Boom!"


    The gigantic sphere enclosed an area of a thousand feet with Sword Qi that took the form of a net.


    "I''ve done it." Qin Yun stopped and smiled. "After coming to this world, I have studied all of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s sword techniques. I grasped the Iceheart Paramount realm from the Frost Sword Chart on the first day. However, grasping the Paramount realm for the other sword techniques is clearly much harder. After spending three months, I have finally grasped a second Paramount realm, Lockheaven."


    Iceheart meant having a heart that resembled a mirror of ice. It reflected all things and it was inclined to being a Paramount realm for one''s heart and mind.


    Lockheaven established control over one¡¯s surroundings. However, it was inclined to being a Paramount realm for sword arts and techniques. Qin Yun had now grasped that.


    "Qingsha, Dong Wan."


    Soon.


    Liu Qingsha and Dong Wan arrived.


    "Master."


    "Elder." Both of them were very respectful.


    "Dong Wan, demonstrate your Lockheaven Sword," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Dong Wan was delighted when he heard that. He knew that Elder Meng was about to give him pointers.


    He immediately began demonstrating his Lockheaven Sword. He had been focusing on this technique and had already grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm.


    Qin Yun knew at a glance that Dong Wan understood the Impermanence stance from the Lockheaven Sword''s seven great sword stances the best.


    "In my homeworld, it is extremely difficult to grasp the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm through Expertise Nearing Dao at the Postnatal realm. It only happens once every few centuries, and every person who does it becomes an illustrious figure," thought Qin Yun. "But in this world, anyone that reaches the Connate realm has grasped the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm at the Postnatal realm. It¡¯s a requirement for stepping into the Connate realm."


    It was necessary for one to grasp the intent realm before they could attain the Connate False Core in this world!


    "All of them have Expertise Nearing Dao."


    "It''s because their technique is perfect," Qin Yun marveled inwardly. "For example, each of the seven sword stances of the Lockheaven Sword has nearly two thousand moves. They are like steps laid out one after another. Once one reaches the end of the staircase, one would naturally attain the intent realm."


    In comparison, his homeworld only had ordinary sword moves and a few killer moves! The improvement of one''s realm depended on one''s own comprehension!


    Immortals would focus on divine powers, talisman amulet techniques, refinement of artifacts or pills, etc. It was impossible for generations of talented geniuses to focus fully on close combat techniques.


    However, many sword moves in this world improved one step at a time, eventually becoming a complete system. It led straight to the intent realm.


    For example, the Lockheaven Sword''s seven sword stances would combine to point towards the Paramount realm.


    Similarly, the Frost Sword Chart also pointed towards the Paramount realm.


    There were even ''Dao Entry Charts'' that were later added on! However¡­ stepping into the Dao was too esoteric. A chart alone could only provide direction, but the requirement of one''s acumen was ridiculously high.


    "The sword techniques have become systemic. It guides one slowly towards the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm," thought Qin Yun. "It also makes Expertise Nearing Dao extremely common in this world. However, these people who attain Expertise Nearing Dao in this way are limited in what they can achieve in the future."


    "It''s possible that in the present world with thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, those at the intent domain realm and the Paramount realm are in no way inferior to those in my homeworld. There are even five people that are ranked on the God roll who have stepped into the Dao."


    "This world''s heritage is indeed impressive."


    "I can use the various sword techniques that exist here to grasp even more Paramount realms and improve my Sword Dao," thought Qin Yun.


    "If I were to rely solely on myself, it would be very difficult to grasp even one Paramount realm."


    "Since this world''s sword techniques are systemic in their guidance, the difficulty of grasping Paramount realms is much lower. With my acumen, I believe I will grasp even more Paramount realms in fifty years." Qin Yun was not going to study every possible technique. He would only choose those that he felt were suitable for his Sword Dao, ones that would make up for its weaknesses or further perfect it. Only those he would carefully study.


    ¡­


    Centaurea Valley.


    One of the eight large sects in the Chu Kingdom. The sect was comprised entirely of women, and many of them were sought after by men.


    And today, a letter sent from the Sovereign Capital arrived in Centaurea Valley.


    "Oh?" Centaurea Valley Lordess was dressed in a red robe. Between her eyes was a shadow of allure. She was an expert ranked thirty-fifth on the Earth roll.


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu arrived in Sovereign Capital and defeated Xiang Tong in front of Xiyu Establishment. He cleaved off Xiang Tong''s arm and forced him to flee?" Centaurea Valley Lordess could not help but be alarmed. She immediately looked at an old woman to the side. "Elder Wu, I remember that Gong Yan''er gave birth to Meng Yiqiu''s child after she returned?"


    The old woman could not help but reply, "Valley Lordess, didn''t you give the order to throw it away?"

 272 Ambush

    Chapter 272: Ambush


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Where was it thrown to? Who threw it?" Centaurea Valley Lady pressed anxiously.


    "I¡­ I do not know." The old woman shook her head. "It was probably an outer-sect disciple or a servant that threw it away."


    "Quickly investigate and find that child," said Centaurea Valley Lady anxiously. "No, I''ll search for it myself."


    ¡­


    Inside Centaurea Valley.


    A red-dressed Gong Yan''er was sitting alone by a stream with a large bed of flowers on her side.


    She was in a daze, watching the bed of flowers with a very haggard look.


    "Is that Senior Sister Gong?" A purple-dressed woman walked over and said with a smile. "I heard that Valley Lady instructed you to acquaint yourself with the young son of Southmartial Maquis. You didn''t even manage to accomplish that? Tsk, how do you even fail at the simple task of making an acquaintance? Senior Sister Gong, I think you are getting too old. You are almost thirty this year, aren''t you? Perhaps it''s best you do not show yourself in the future. Just stay in the valley and do some miscellaneous chores. One of my maidservants was rather clumsy and she died after a few lashes of my whip. Senior Sister Gong, if you were to be my maidservant, I''m sure you would definitely be smart and diligent."


    Gong Yan''er shot her a glance but did not say a word.


    Centaurea Valley was a cruel environment.


    One either had to win the affection of others with their looks or one had to rely on their strength! If one failed in either of the two, their fates would be terrible.


    Gong Yan''er was very beautiful. Her looks and disposition were better than Yan Xiyu''s. She was one of the three most stunning fairies of Centaurea Valley''s present generation. The world gave her the accolade Fairy Crabapple and she loved to wear red. She had a stunning, bewitching charm that garnered the jealousy of many of her peers in Centaurea Valley. However, Gong Yan''er had suffered a great loss of standing recently.


    "Junior Sister Du, I''m at the perfected twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm. You only just reached the tenth this year. If you have the guts to come closer, maybe you''ll see if I would dare lash you to death," said Gong Yan''er softly. Her voice was pleasing to the ears but it twisted the purple-dressed woman''s expression.


    "Hmph! Gong Yan''er! You have failed at every single task Valley Lady gave you this year! Do you still think you are the Fairy Crabapple of the past?" The purple-dressed woman sneered. "You grow older each day. You will turn uglier! If a fairy becomes ugly, she''s no longer a fairy."


    "Scram!" Gong Yan''er shouted coldly.


    "Hmph, it won''t be long before I see you cry." The purple-dressed woman laughed as she walked away elegantly. Suddenly, a group of women came over from afar. Leading them was the distinguished Centaurea Valley Lady.


    "Valley Lady." The purple-dressed woman was alarmed as she immediately bowed.


    Centaurea Valley Lady shot her a glance before rapidly walking over to Gong Yan''er.


    Gong Yan''er also stood up immediately. She looked at the incoming Centaurea Valley Lady and the group of Elders. Among them, Elder Wuchang was carrying a baby in her arms. The baby was sleeping soundly.


    "My¡­ My b¡­" Gong Yan''er trembled when she saw the baby.


    "Yan''er." Centaurea Valley Lady said with a smile before taking the baby into her arms and handing it to Gong Yan''er. "Didn''t you always want your child? Here is it!"


    The purple-dressed woman in the distance could not help but be shocked. She thought to herself, "What? Gong Yan''er actually has a child?"


    As Gong Yan''er took the infant in her arms, her tears could not help but flow down. She immediately lowered her head to kiss the infant. She could feel the powerful bond between mother and son.


    "My child." Gong Yan''er saw the child''s birthmark at a glance and knew that he was her child.


    "Yan''er," said Centaurea Valley Lady with a smile. "This is your child with Meng Yiqiu. I was only trying to frighten you back when I said to throw it away."


    Elder Wuchang glanced at Centaurea Valley Lady but did not say a word.


    Gong Yan''er hugged her child but could not help but feel agitated.


    Centaurea Valley only looked gorgeous. Behind its presentation of an otherworldly paradise was an extremely cruel environment. It was twisted! The female disciples either needed to be strong or had good looks. In such an environment, her mindset had long been warped. She even turned numb towards it. But when she realized that she was pregnant, experiencing the heartbeat of a new life in her womb, she felt that her life was ruined. She wanted to give her child a good life and for this, she was willing to pay the price regardless what it was.


    The child was her hope.


    She secretly gave birth to her child elsewhere but Centaurea Valley was extremely powerful. It still discovered what she had done. Centaurea Valley Lady was infuriated back when she learned that Gong Yan''er had dared to give birth to a child. Unless permission was given, Centaurea Valley disciples were forbidden from having children. In the Valley Lady''s rage, she had the child taken away and instructed for it to be thrown out. As for Gong Yan''er, she had excellent looks and disposition. She was still of great use to the Valley Lady so she was forced to continue taking orders from the Valley Lady under the threat of her family''s life.


    But clearly, she had been failing at her missions recently.


    "Valley Lady, what do you want me to do?" Gong Yan''er hugged her child nervously.


    "I need you to bring your child to Sovereign Capital to meet Meng Yiqiu," said Centaurea Valley Lady with a smile.


    ******


    Sovereign Capital, Quelling Duke Manor.


    As Qin Yun went to Xiyu Establishment to stand up for his sister the first day he arrived in Sovereign Capital, it was only on the second night that Quelling Duke Manor officially hosted a welcoming banquet for Qin Yun.


    After the banquet, Qin Yun had a private meeting with Matriarch and Duan Qiyu.


    Duan Qiyu was the eldest son of the Duan family and was the incumbent Quelling Duke! He was the head of the family! However, Matriarch was the only member in the Duan family that was at the Connate realm. In fact, she was the one with true power over the Duan family. It was just unsuitable for her to be in the limelight outside.


    "Oh? Young Master Meng, you want to enter my Duan family''s White Jade Repository?" Matriarch frowned.


    "White Jade Repository? You want to read all the manuals in there?" Duan Qiyu could not help but comment. "The more powerful a manual is, the more it incurs the jealousy of Heaven. Every read damages the manual."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I know, but perhaps it would still be possible?"


    The Quelling Duke Manor had once thrived. During that period, it was in no way inferior to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. If not, it would never have been conferred dukedom! Furthermore, White Jade Repository was the most famous thing about Quelling Duke Manor. Many manuals were hidden in it.


    "About that¡­" Duan Qiyu looked towards Matriarch.


    Matriarch pondered for a moment before she smiled at Qin Yun. "Young Master Meng and my Duan family have deep ties. Although the manuals in White Jade Repository are precious, it''s not a problem to let you freely browse through them. There is no need to talk about a price, but I do wish that Young Master Meng will promise me one thing."


    "Matriarch, please speak." Qin Yun nodded.


    "If my Quelling Duke Manor were to ever be on the brink of destruction during your lifetime, I wish for Young Master Meng to help it. You just need to ensure that it doesn''t fall," said Matriarch.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. "In fact, I would have protected Quelling Duke Manor for my sister and niece anyway."


    When Matriarch heard this, she smiled. However, she thought to herself, "This Meng Yiqiu really cares for his sister. Yes, she is his only kin after all. And that child of Yuxiang cannot be married out when she grows up. The son-in-law has to be married in."


    Matriarch quickly made a decision after Qin Yun gave his word.


    She decided to elevate Meng Yuxiang''s position in the Duan family. Meng Yuxiang''s daughter would remain in the family and her future husband would be married in.


    "Then, I''ll head over to White Jade Repository first." Qin Yun stood up.


    "Alright then." Matriarch smiled and stood up.


    "Matriarch, please rest. There''s no need for you to accompany me," said Qin Yun immediately. After Matriarch sat down, Qin Yun took his leave.


    There was only Matriarch and Duan Qiyu left in the room.


    "Grandmother." Duan Qiyu could not help but say. "This Meng Yiqiu did not give His Highness, the Crown Prince, any face. He even ignored my exhortations. Now, he still wants to enter our White Jade Repository? It''s such an important place but you allowed him entry to browse through it as he pleases?"


    "Qiyu." Matriarch shook her head. "I was never really agreeable to your siding with the crown prince."


    "If we do not take a side, whoever inherits the throne will take action against our Duan family," said Duan Qiyu immediately. "As long as we endorse His Highness, he will definitely reward us handsomely when he inherits the throne. Our Duan family might be able to use this opportunity to prosper once again."


    "Vying for the throne is fraught with danger. Being on the winning side would obviously lead to many benefits but if we are on the losing side¡­" Matriarch shook her head. "The reason why I agreed to Meng Yiqiu''s request to enter White Jade Repository is his promise! When the Duan family really encounters danger, he might be the final straw that we can grasp."


    "His Highness is the heir designate and first in the royal line of succession. He is supported by many factions. He will definitely inherit the throne," said Duan Qiyu.


    "The world is hard to predict. There were four dukes in the past, but now there is only our Duan family and the Shen family," Matriarch said. "Who knows what will happen in the future? It''s best to have a backup plan."


    "Yes."


    Duan Qiyu nodded obediently.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun spent his time reading manual after manual in White Jade Repository. He did not return to his residence. In three days, he finished reading all the manuals in White Jade Repository. With his abilities, he could naturally remember all of them after reading the manuals once. He could even play out the techniques from ordinary manuals in his mind after one read, fully understanding them without any problems. Only a few manuals required Qin Yun to really ruminate over them.


    "I learned a lot."


    "In terms of the manuals, they are not much worse than the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s. The Quelling Duke Manor''s White Jade Repository does live up to its name." Qin Yun walked out of White Jade Repository with a smile. He looked up into the sky, where the waning moon was hanging. It was already late into the night.


    "Young Master Meng." The security at White Jade Repository was extremely tight. The guards at the entrance bowed politely at him.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Time to return."


    "It''s been three days and three nights. It''s about time to return."


    With a tap of his foot.


    Sou!


    He instantly streaked out as a beam of light, leaving shadows in his wake. He flew towards his manor.


    The world''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were extremely thin but Qin Yun had a powerful soul. He could forcibly use the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies to lend some strength to his casting of Dharma spells. However, he couldn''t be bothered to do so. Instead, he used his intent domain to control his body in flight.


    After flying more than five kilometers, he slowly approached his manor.


    Qin Yun frowned slightly and stopped in midair. He surveyed his surroundings and said coldly, "Come on out!"


    "Hahaha, you did not flee even after discovering an ambush? You sure are confident."


    "Young lad! Overconfidence only means arrogance! It will cost you your life. The way I see things, this day next year will be the day of your death anniversary." Two voices sounded from two different directions.

 273 Murderers

    Chapter 273: Murderers


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Whoosh.


    Two figures flew up to his side and stopped in midair. They were both elders. One had snow-white hair and the other had fiery-red hair. They strongly resembled each other.


    Both of them were sniggering oddly. The Quintessential Essence auras that their bodies emitted were different. One was was a snow-white aura that caused the surroundings to freeze and the other was a blistering fiery-red aura. Its high temperature kindled some of the nearby trees and buildings as though it were the hottest day of summer. Instantly, the residents of the surrounding homes were awakened from shock.


    "Fire!"


    "Fire! Run for your lives!"


    "It''s so cold. It''s the middle of summer. Why is it so cold?"


    They had been sound asleep, but now they were all awake and in chaos.


    One region was extremely cold to the point of ice forming while another region was extremely hot to the point of igniting the area.


    Yet the completely different auras perfectly fused together, forming a long chain of ice and fire. What seemed like nonexistent auras formed a physical chain after mixing and binding together. The ice-and-fire chain that circled Qin Yun was the famous attack, the Ice-Fire Chain of the two devilish figures. A person''s speed would drastically be reduced once they were wrapped by the chain. It made escape nearly impossible.


    "So it''s the Tong brothers," said Qin Yun. "Did King Wei send the both of you to deal with me?"


    Ranked eighteenth on the Earth roll: Firefiend Tong Fang. An old eunuch of the Wei Kingdom. Due to the lack of a particular organ and his extremely high talent, he had cultivated the Firefiend Great Dharma to an extremely profound state.


    Ranked nineteenth on the Earth roll: Icefiend Tong Lie. Tong Lie''s talent was in no way inferior to his elder brother¡¯s. The Wei Kingdom had also groomed him as much as they could. However, he chose to cultivate in the Icefiend Technique. Like his brother, he cultivated it to an extremely profound state.


    The two brothers were close, and they had worked together for so long that they created famous combination attacks.


    Based on their individual strengths, they were ranked in the top twenty of the Earth roll.


    But if the two joined forces, they had the strength to enter the top five of the Earth roll! Both of them were powerful experts that were extremely loyal to the Wei''s imperial family.


    "Killing someone like you does not require King Wei''s personal orders." Firefiend''s voice was sharper.


    "Punk, you should be honored that the both of us are joining forces to kill you," said Icefiend with a scoff.


    The two devils took action at nearly the same time as they charged at Qin Yun.


    They wore strange glove weapons, and both of them had lived for more than a hundred years, giving them rich combat experience and making them adept at close combat fighting. Their intent domains both exceeded two hundred feet! It was apparent how robust their realms were.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The duo complemented each other perfectly as they surrounded Qin Yun.


    With Frost Sword in hand, Qin Yun''s heart which was as still as an ice mirror reflected every movement around him. He fended off the attacks of the two devils.


    "Peng! Peng! Peng¡­" The aftershocks from their clashes caused some of the surrounding buildings to collapse. Trees toppled while leaves flew up from the mayhem.


    "What happened?"


    "Look, there are people fighting in the sky."


    "Wow, in the sky!"


    The surrounding residents kept running further away since the vicinity of the battleground was constantly frozen into sheets of ice and bursting into flames! The blasts from the clash drove the citizens into hiding. They didn''t even have a chance of extinguishing the fire.


    They did not dare say a word as they saw the three blurry figures fighting in the sky.


    People that could fly in the sky?


    A battle at such a level was not something the constables would dare involve themselves in.


    ¡­


    "These two devils'' close combat techniques are quite interesting. They contain some inkling of my Juxtaposition Paramount realm. Each of them represents one aspect of Yin and Yang. With such a combination of Yin and Yang, they reveal no flaws. It''s nearly impossible to defeat them at the intent domain realm." Qin Yun secretly marveled. "Those Physical Establishing Sages from the Primordial Chaos Sect also enjoy close combat but compared to these two devils, their attacks are a lot cruder."


    The two devils did not have powerful bodies.


    However, a pair of palms delivered flawless blows. There was an inkling of the Juxtaposition Paramount realm as well as the Lockheaven Sword.


    Qin Yun wanted to learn the core essences of the various heritages of this world¡¯s experts to supplement his Sword Dao. Although the duo was using their palms as their weapons, a palm could be used like an ax, saber, sword, or hammer! Furthermore, Qin Yun was already past the stage of seeing only the surface of things. He directly studied the core intricacies and profundity of their attacks.


    "Impressive. However, if this is all they have, they are no longer of any worth." Qin Yun began to gradually increased the strength of his sword arts. Just like back when he was fighting Xiang Tong, he had held back so he could study his opponent.


    "Brother, this Meng Yiqiu is very powerful."


    "It''s no wonder he can defeat Xiang Tong. His sword techniques are indeed impressive! If we allow him to develop further, it might not take long for him to step into the Paramount realm."


    The two devils showed no fear. Suddenly, they produced a combined attack, injecting their own Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers into the other person''s body. At the instant their Quintessential Essences met, their surroundings formed a gigantic mutated beast. It opened its gaping jaws and pounced toward Qin Yun with its opened claws.


    "Roar!" The mutated beast even produced a roar.


    "Injecting Quintessential Essence into each other? These two brothers sure are gutsy. They even succeeded." Qin Yun was surprised. Following that, his Frost Sword shimmered four consecutive times as it stabbed into the critical spots of the mutated beast phantom. Boom! The beast dissipated directly, sending the two devils retreating dozens of feet back.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun furrowed his brows as he cast his eyes at an inconspicuous bug a distance away. It was very common for bugs to be around in summer.


    "Pew!" Qin Yun waved his hand, shooting out a Sword Qi beam that covered a distance of two thousand feet, hitting the bug directly. With a splat, the bug splattered despite having a tough carapace.


    Meanwhile, in an ordinary residence slightly more than five kilometers away.


    A white-robed middle-aged man sat cross-legged. His expression changed suddenly as he spewed a mouthful of blood. His face turned white as he revealed a hideous smile. "He discovered the Gu bug? Unfortunately, it''s too late. Just too late."


    ¡­


    "It was discovered."


    Icefiend and Firefiend stopped in midair and exchanged looks. Yet, they smiled oddly.


    "I never expected you two to use poison," said Qin Yun.


    "You fought with us for too long. You might have been fine if you had not moved but to engage in such an intense battle, the poison must have already entered your heart. Even a god cannot save you," said Icefiend with a chuckle.


    "Punk, did you really think we would rely on our real strength to kill you head-on? Haha, killing someone head-on is the most tiring thing." Firefiend had a sharp voice. He laughed as he said, "Remember, use your brain in the future! We want you dead and that naturally means we would use every possible mean."


    "Brother, you made a mistake. There is no future for him!" Icefiend said.


    "Oh, my bad. You no longer have a future." Firefiend nodded immediately. "Right, before you die, I''ll enlighten you. That poison is known as the Divine Intent Gu Poison. It was recently created. Punk, you are pretty impressive. You even managed to kill the Gu bug before your death."


    Qin Yun looked at the duo.


    In this world, the magus lineage had long fallen. The cultivation Dharmic formulation and hex spells were all gone. Even the Gu arts were incomplete. The art of rearing Gu was the only thing that was still being secretly imparted.


    "Killing an Earth roll expert at the cost of a Gu bug. It''s worth it." Icefiend nodded. "Now that I think about it, this Gu bug has killed two Earth roll experts."


    "That''s right!" Firefiend chuckled. "Meng Yiqiu, your Zhou Mountain Sword Sect probably doesn''t know the true murderer of your master, Feng Qingcang, does it? Haha, let me tell you. Your master, Feng Qingcang, died at the hands of the two of us. We also relied on this Divine Intent Gu Poison. Haha, both master and disciple died in the same way under our hands. Haha, it''s fate. Fate, I tell you!"


    "Master?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed as his gaze turned cold.


    He had been letting them babble on like fools but now, he learned that the master of his body, Feng Qingcang, had died at the hands of the duo in front of him. Furthermore, it was because of the same Gu poison. Qin Yun''s killing intent surged immediately!


    "I never expected my master to be killed by the two of you," muttered Qin Yun.


    "Are you very angry? Very furious? Unfortunately, it''s too late. It''s just too late." Firefiend said with a laugh.


    "The both of us will be sending you to meet your dead master. You should thank us," said Icefiend with a smile.


    "That''s right. I should thank the both of you," said Qin Yun sordidly. "No, it''s not only the two of you. I should also thank Immortal Sage Physician, ranked seventh on the Earth roll. He must have been the one that used the Divine Winged Gu, am I right?"

 274 Ranked in the Heaven roll

    Chapter 274: Ranked in the Heaven roll


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As they floated in midair, Icefiend and Firefiend were alarmed. Firefiend could not help but utter, "How did you know?"


    The Gu bug had been created less than a year ago. In addition, Immortal Sage Physician was known chiefly for his medical skills. His skill in poison was not openly known! Few people knew that he was the owner of a Gu bug.


    "I also know that he is currently sitting in a residence slightly more than five kilometers from here." Qin Yun looked at them.


    "You even know that he''s staying somewhere five kilometers from here?" Icefiend and Firefiend exchanged looks. They were panicking now, horrified. All they knew was that Immortal Sage Physician had entered Sovereign Capital. They did not even know where he was staying, yet Meng Yiqiu knew?


    "We are exposed."


    "There must have been some leak of information!"


    "How is that possible? Only a few people know of this operation. Sect Master Xiao keeps his whereabouts confidential. How could he be exposed?"


    "If there has been a leak, could it be that he is not poisoned?"


    Icefiend and Firefiend suddenly felt uneasy.


    "I only learned that my master died by your hands just now. Don''t worry. I''ll kill the both of you. In a while that Immortal Sage Physician will join you in death. I will also take the heads of you three and offer as a sacrifice to my master." Qin Yun''s voice sounded calm but Icefiend and Firefiend could feel the infinite killing intent in his words.


    "Do you think you have what it takes?" Icefiend sneered.


    "Your master died under our hands. It will be the same for you." Firefiend similarly felt disdain.


    However, Qin Yun did not speak a word. A glint flashed in his eyes before his body turned into a blur.


    Sou!


    His speed was clearly much faster than before, allowing him to instantly appear in front of Firefiend. However, Firefiend confidently struck out his palm to block him with all his might. Instantly, an inferno blazed with a tumultuous stance. However, Qin Yun''s sword flashed. Frost emanated around him, making Firefiend feel a chill. Following that, he discovered that the Frost Sword had transformed into an ice-cold flash of light. Just that flash sent his conscious into an eternal darkness.


    Firefiend, dead!


    His body began to fall to the ground lifelessly.


    Icefiend saw everything that had happened clearly since he was standing by his brother''s side. Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu''s sword technique suddenly became much faster. His elder brother''s palm missed and the sword stabbed into his brother''s glabella.


    "Brother!" Icefiend''s eyes turned red. That was his elder brother with whom he had a very close relationship with. At that moment, he even forgot to flee and instinctively attacked frenetically.


    "Swoosh." Qin Yun came to him.


    He struck out with his sword as frost permeated the void. Although Icefiend was in a frenzy, the sword flash still managed to flash between the gaps in Icefiend''s palms, stabbing right through his heart.


    Icefiend''s eyes widened into two blank circles.


    "It has always been that us brothers were doing the killing. Now, we have finally been killed by someone else." Icefiend felt the vitality in him declining rapidly. He immediately flew towards Firefiend and hugged the plummeting corpse. Following that, he fell to the ground whilst still hugging his brother.


    "Brother¡­" Icefiend could not stop the blood from flowing out his mouth and nose. His voice was muffled and hoarse. "We never expected Meng Yiqiu to have already reached the Paramount realm. It''s no surprise we lost. Brother, for us to die together, it seems the heavens treated the two of us well. Pretty well!"


    With that said, blood gurgled out of his mouth. Following that, his head drooped down and he fell silent.


    However, Qin Yun looked coldly at the two corpses.


    "Elder Meng."


    "Master."


    This area was about half a kilometer away from Qin Yun''s residence. The huge commotion naturally attracted Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and the other Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples.


    "Clean up the area," instructed Qin Yun. "Compensate these people for any of the destruction caused to the surroundings."


    "Yes." Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha immediately accepted the order.


    "I''ll be out for a while. I''ll be back in an hour." With that said, Qin Yun tapped his foot and whizzed into the sky as a stream of light, disappearing into the dark night.


    Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and the other Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples watched from afar.


    "Impressive. The Ice and Fire devils died just like that." Dong Wan could not help but comment. "Truly impressive."


    "Master is so kind. He even wants us to compensate these commoners." Liu Qingsha was beginning to idolize her master even more.


    ¡­


    Later that night, Sovereign Capital was silent. Most areas were pitch black.


    Qin Yun streaked across the sky at a rapid speed. His eyes were filled with killing intent.


    A Paramount realm expert''s intent domain spanned a thousand feet.


    However, Qin Yun was also a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao. Furthermore, his Dao was extraordinary. His Dao''s domain spanned ten kilometers!


    At that moment, he could sense all the living beings in a radius of ten kilometers with a thought. He could count the number of living auras that were at the Connate realm. When he killed the Gu worm, a white-robed middle-aged man that was controlling the Gu worm in a residence about five kilometers away vomited blood. He was clearly injured. From that man''s appearance, Qin Yun instantly identified him as Immortal Sage Physician Xiao Chun who was ranked seventh on the Earth roll!


    Since time immemorial, medicine and poison were just two sides of the same coin. Qin Yun was not surprised at all that the famous Immortal Sage Physician was skilled with Gu poison.


    "What a pity. It was not easy to rear that Divine Intent Gu but it was killed by Meng Yiqiu just like that." Inside the residence, the white-robed Xiao Chun repressed his injuries and shook his head gently. "Whatever. For my Divine Intent Gu to kill two Earth roll experts, it''s worth it! Besides, having had the experience, I am confident that I can rear a second one."


    "Peng!"


    The door was suddenly forced open. Even the bolt that locked the door from the inside shattered.


    "Who is it?" Xiao Chun stood up immediately.


    A young man with a sword hanging by his waist walked in from outside.


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu?" Xiao Chun was appalled. Just minutes ago, he had observed through the Gu that Meng Yiqiu was more than five kilometers away. "Shouldn''t he be poisoned and dead by Icefiend and Firefiend''s hands? Why is he suddenly here? Even Icefiend and Firefiend do not know where I''m staying!"


    "Elder Meng, why are you suddenly looking for me? It''s not very nice to barge into someone''s place in the middle of the night, is it?" Xiao Chun said with a smile.


    "That Gu bug was controlled by you, right?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "What Gu bug?" Xiao Chun gave a puzzled look.


    From his point of view, what evidence could anyone provide that he was the one that controlled a Gu bug from five kilometers away?


    "Elder Meng, it must be someone''s deliberate instigation. I, Xiao Chun, have practiced medicine all my life. I do not know of any Gu bugs," said Xiao Chun immediately. "By the way, might I ask who dared to slander me¡ª"


    "Pew!"


    A sword beam flashed.


    Xiao Chun''s eyes were filled with horror as a red wound appeared in between his brows. Following that, his body slumped to the ground.


    Qin Yun sheathed his sword and coldly looked at him. "Even at the end, you still tried to deceive me?"


    ******


    Three Earth roll experts were killed. The people from the Wei Kingdom that were hiding in Sovereign Capital were trembling in fear. Although the Wei Kingdom had experienced growth in recent years, losing three Earth roll experts in one go was still a setback to the Wei Kingdom''s royalty.


    The death of Immortal Sage Physician was still considered a secret.


    However, Qin Yun had killed Icefiend and Firefiend in front of many people. It was no secret, and in fact it quickly spread throughout Sovereign Capital!


    The threat Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu posed was greatly enhanced.


    ¡­


    Just three days later.


    Peerless Manor''s compilation of the Heaven, Earth, and Man roll had changed. It was rather common for the Earth and Man rolls to change but the Heaven roll rarely did.


    At Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    "Sect Master, this is the latest Heaven roll." A disciple brought the newest Heaven roll tome and rushed to hand it to Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s sect master, Zuo Tang.


    The plump Zuo Tang was fishing and in an extremely good mood.


    "Oh?"


    Zuo Tang received it with a smile. After flipping through it, his eyes could not help but light up.


    The Heaven roll ranked the world''s three royal families, the aristocrats, the major sects, the itinerant cultivators, as well as the cultivators from the various islands in the seas¡­ In short, as long as there was any indication, all Connate Paramount realm experts would be ranked on it. Even so, the amount of people who actually ranked on the Heaven roll was pathetic. There were only twenty-three to date.


    No trace could be found of some of them even after more than a century. However, the Heaven roll would continue listing them as long as they were within their expected lifespans and there was no proof of their deaths.


    "Good, very good." Zuo Tang stared at the latest Heaven roll with burning eyes.


    Sixth on the Heaven roll: Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu! Meng Yiqiu encountered an assassination attempt by Icefiend and Firefiend in Sovereign Capital. He later killed Firefiend with one strike, followed by Icefiend, similarly with one strike. The two brothers were unable to put up any resistance! Immortal Sage Physician, Xiao Chun also died at Meng Yiqiu''s hands that night.


    Zuo Tang was extremely excited.


    Zuo Tang obviously knew that three members on the Earth roll had been killed.


    That was because after the trio was killed, Qin Yun brought the heads of the three murderers back the next day. He flew all the way back to Zhou Mountain Sword Sect to offer them to his master, Feng Qingcang! However, the ranking still left Zuo Tang excited. After all, there were only twenty-three people on the Heaven roll to date!


    "Sixth on the Heaven roll. Haha, sixth!" Zuo Tang laughed out loudly. "It seems my Zhou Mountain Sword Sect will be ushering in a most prosperous era."


    ¡­


    A ship was flowing down the river, headed for Sovereign Capital.


    On the ship, a red-robed Gong Yan''er was carrying an infant. She played with him while the newest edition of the Heaven roll was placed on the table beside her.


    "Baby, good baby." Gong Yan''er looked at her child and beamed happily. "Your father is so powerful. He''s now ranked on the Heaven roll. No one will dare bully you anymore. Even the Centaurea Valley will not dare!"

 275 Chu Kingdoms Arsenal

    Chapter 275: Chu Kingdom''s Arsenal


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was leisurely reading under a grapevine in Sovereign Capital. Due to the yesterday''s release of the Heaven roll, Crown Prince and Eighth Prince each sent him an invitation early in the morning. Qin Yun rejected them both.


    "Elder Meng! Elder Meng!"


    Dong Wan ran in.


    "What''s the matter now? I just can''t get the chance to read in peace." Qin Yun lowered his book in exasperation.


    Dong Wan was increasingly amazed by Qin Yun. In the few days since they arrived in Sovereign Capital, Qin Yun''s advice had made him a lot happier! His understanding of the Lockheaven Sword had been greatly enhanced. He naturally began lingering around Qin Yun and showed him greater respect. However, he did not know that Qin Yun had already achieved the Paramount realm in the Lockheaven Sword. Furthermore, he was a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao! The advice he gave on sword techniques was something no one else from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect could compare with.


    "Elder Meng," said Dong Wan with a smile. "You are now famous throughout the world. There are naturally many people that wish to meet you. I have rejected invitations from Crown Prince, Eighth Prince, and important figures from many other sects on your behalf. However, there is someone here now that I cannot reject. Nor do I dare to try."


    "Who is it?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "His Majesty, King Chu," replied Dong Wan.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s brows pricked up. With his present status, he could also ignore King Chu if he wanted. "What does King Chu want?"


    Dong Wan said, "Elder Meng, he sent someone to invite you to the palace. How should I reply? Should I reject it?"


    Qin Yun threw the book in his hand onto a table to his side. He stood up and said with a smile. "Let''s go. Since King Chu has invited me, I''ll pay a visit."


    "Alright," replied Dong Wan respectfully.


    Qin Yun quickly went out the door. There were palace eunuchs and guards at the entrance. An old eunuch said respectfully, "Elder Meng, His Majesty invites you for a personal visit." As he said this, a young eunuch pulled open the curtains of a carriage.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun boarded the carriage immediately.


    The old eunuch''s face beamed like a blooming flower. An expert on the Heaven roll was not someone King Chu could meet whenever he wished. He was filled with joy that he was able to successfully invite Elder Meng.


    ¡­


    Ordinary carriages had to stop outside the palace gates but this carriage was brought in without obstruction. King Chu had long given the instructions so none of the palace guards dared to stop it.


    "Elder Meng, here we are."


    The old eunuch''s voice spoke gently, afraid that he would alarm Qin Yun.


    Only then did Qin Yun pull open the curtains and disembark the carriage.


    When he looked up, he realized that he was already inside the royal palace.


    "His Majesty is in the western garden." The old eunuch pointed to the entrance of a garden. Qin Yun could see vegetation past it. It was rare for there to be that much vegetation in a palace.


    "Okay." Qin Yun sensed something and could not help but smile.


    He sensed that¡­ there was an existence that had stepped into the Dao inside the royal palace.


    "Ranked second on the God roll, God of War, Li Ruji!" Qin Yun thought to himself. "The person who perennially presides over Sovereign Capital is this God of War. He is basically the reason why the Chu Kingdom is able to rule over nearly half the world."


    Before Qin Yun came to this world, there was a total of five people on the God roll!


    Those that could enter the God roll were naturally existences that had stepped into the Dao. Their strength was extremely terrifying.


    Among the five, two of them did not partake in conflicts between mortals. Each of the other three supported a country. They backed either the Chu Kingdom, Wei Kingdom, or the Yan Kingdom. Each country had an existence that had stepped into the Dao representing them! Among them, God of War, Li Ruji had once ranked first on the God roll for a long period of time. It made the Chu Kingdom extremely powerful. But now, he had fallen to second on the God roll.


    "Among the absolute pillars of the Chu Kingdom''s royalty, there is one in the God roll and one in the Heaven roll," thought Qin Yun.


    The newest Heaven roll had a total of twenty-three people.


    A small number of them had their whereabouts unknown for quite an extended period of time!


    More than half of them were carefree and did not concern themselves with the matters of the throne. After all, at their level, they ruled over an area of their own. The changes of dynasties did not affect them.


    Less than half of them had ties with one of the three royal families.


    For example, Grand General Xue Chong on the Heaven roll was an absolute supporter of the Chu Kingdom''s royal family! He fought in wars everywhere for the Chu Kingdom. The other two experts on the Heaven roll were the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Meng Yiqiu and the Skyward Conservatory, Yu Zige. These two had rather close relationships with the Chu Kingdom''s royal family. The reason why Meng Yiqiu was listed was that the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had deep ties with the Chu Kingdom.


    "Twenty-three people are on the Heaven roll. Apart from the ones that are unlocatable, and those that are overseas, there are only seven on the Heaven roll that are within the Chu Kingdom''s borders! Four of them completely ignore the royal family," thought Qin Yun. "As for me, be it due to the long-term relationship the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has with the Chu Kingdom or for the Chu Kingdom''s arsenal, I have to visit King Chu."


    The Chu Kingdom had been first among the three countries for a long time.


    With the God of War Li Ruji, second on the God roll, presiding over the country, the arsenal had amassed a large number of manuals over time. It had even more than the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, so how could Qin Yun give up such an opportunity?


    "This Li Ruji is only good at a formulation that hones his body. It''s how he came to be ranked second. But his Dao would only be considered normal," thought Qin Yun. It would be a little difficult killing Li Ruji but defeating him would be easy.


    ¡­


    In the western garden, King Chu was lying on a chair watching a lake. He was getting on in years but when he saw the blue-robed man walk over with a sword hanging by his waist, he still managed to barely stand up with the support of a concubine.


    "Elder Meng," said King Chu with a smile. "Elder Meng, I''m truly envious seeing how young you look."


    "Greetings, Your Majesty," greeted Qin Yun.


    "Elder Meng, please have a seat," said King Chu immediately.


    Only then did Qin Yun sit.


    King Chu said with a smile, "When I learned that Elder Meng was ranked on the Heaven roll, and sixth at that, I was delighted! Now, my health is ailing and I won''t waste either of our time. The Wei Kingdom''s eagerness for action probably indicates that a war will soon begin. That worries me! At such a critical point, the appearance of Elder Meng has calmed me slightly."


    Qin Yun understood why King Chu was worried. It was because the person ranked first on the God roll was the one in the Wei Kingdom!


    "Your Majesty, the reason you invited me today¡­" Qin Yun looked at King Chu.


    "The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s foundation is ultimately a little weak." King Chu chuckled. "Elder Meng, you are young and you probably need all sorts of natural treasures or even more powerful cultivation formulations. Therefore, Elder Meng, I will allow you to choose any three of my Chu Kingdom''s top formulations."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "Your Majesty, cultivation naturally requires one to read a lot to broaden one''s horizons. Therefore, I would like to read more of the manuals in the arsenal."


    "Read more?" King Chu''s expression changed slightly. "Might I know how many you would like to read?"


    The more powerful a manual, the more it incurred the envy of the heavens.


    There was a limit to the number of times one could read it. After that threshold was reached, the manual would be destroyed.


    "Since it''s meant to broaden one''s horizons, I naturally mean everything!" said Qin Yun.


    King Chu knitted his brows.


    Everything?


    That was quite an audacious request!


    Even the concubine beside King Chu was secretly alarmed.


    "What''s the meaning of this. Is this Meng Yiqiu trying to threaten me?" thought King Chu. "That''s right, with his strength, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect probably doesn''t wish to fight for my Chu Kingdom! I''ve truly reared a bunch of ingrates! When they were weak, they relied on my Chu Kingdom. Now that they are powerful, they begin to turn disobedient. Even giving him a simple gift comes with conditions. He actually wants to read all the manuals!"


    Reading all the manuals in the arsenal was such a demanding request that even King Chu did not have the right to approve it.


    "Cheng''er, agree to him¡­" An old voice sounded in King Chu''s ears.


    King Chu''s expression changed as he smiled at Qin Yun. "Elder Meng, your request sure isn''t run-of-the-mill! Even I can only read through a few manuals in the Chu Kingdom''s arsenal. However, the Patriarch has already agreed to your request. You can read any manual in the arsenal as you wish. However, my Chu Kingdom''s royal family has a request."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he said with a smile, "Please speak, Your Majesty."


    "Elder Meng, you have to ensure the safety of my Chu Kingdom''s royalty while you remain alive!" said King Chu. "Should you enter the God roll, all you have to do is help out a total of three times when the reigning king requests it, if the kingdom is ever in trouble."


    Qin Yun was just too young. He ranked sixth on the Heaven roll at age thirty-eight! There was indeed a high chance of him entering the God roll.


    "I''ll agree to that." Qin Yun nodded. "Can I teach the things I learn from the manuals in the arsenal?"


    King Chu''s face twitched but he said, "Elder Meng, if you were to teach any of the manuals you find in the arsenal, you have to leave a copy of that manual behind."


    A powerful manual would incur the envy of the heavens. Making a copy was very difficult.


    One needed to fully understand it. Furthermore, the material requirements of the manual were very high.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. "Your Majesty, do you still have anything else you need of me? If there''s nothing, I shall bid you farewell."


    "Haha, I won''t hold you back." King Chu laughed.


    The concubine beside King Chu sighed wistfully.


    Even the powerful King Chu had to humor a Heaven roll expert!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was in no rush to read through the manuals in the Chu Kingdom''s arsenal. He was still busy studying the manuals from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect and the Duan family''s White Jade Repository. The reason why King Chu agreed to his request was that the God of War, Li Ruji, had agreed. No matter who inherited the throne, they would not dare to back out on the agreement.


    "Cloud Water Formulation? This is a manual that leads straight to the Paramount realm. It''s slightly weaker than the Frost Sword Chart and the Lockheaven Sword. However, what it contains is rather interesting." Qin Yun pondered as he read a manual in White Jade Repository. He practiced the sword technique with his finger, forming Sword Qi that soared around him like it was a dream.


    "Master! Master!" Liu Qingsha shouted from afar.


    Qin Yun came to a halt.


    "What''s the matter?" asked Qin Yun.


    Liu Qingsha ran over with a somewhat odd expression. She looked at Qin Yun before saying, "Centaurea Valley''s Fairy Gong wishes to seek an audience with you."


    "Centaurea Valley? Fairy Gong?" Qin Yun frowned. "Hmph, to think she has the nerve to come. Let her in."

 276 Gong Yanser

    Chapter 276: Gong Yan''er


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Gong Yan''er had always treated Meng Yiqiu as a pawn. She eventually led him to the ruin of his promising future via poison. In fact, Meng Yiqiu was actually dead. His body only lived because Qin Yun had replaced him after his descent.


    "I thought Gong Yan''er was quite famous. She shouldn''t be shameless enough to come again. From the looks of it, I have overestimated her and Centaurea Valley." Qin Yun shook his head.


    ¡­


    Liu Qingsha took Qin Yun''s order and went out to see it done. Dong Wan was standing inside a pavilion.


    "Junior Sister, what did Elder Meng say?" Dong Wan asked immediately when he saw Liu Qingsha coming over.


    "Master seemed a little upset but he will still allow her to enter," said Liu Qingsha.


    "This Gong Yan''er caused Elder Meng to be poisoned and even implicated Grandmaster Feng." Dong Wan''s eyes were burning with anger. He detested Gong Yan''er. In fact, most of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s upper echelons did not like Gong Yan''er.


    Liu Qingsha shook her head gently. "It''s Master''s personal affairs. It''s not our place to say anything. Besides, Master was infatuated with Fairy Gong for a long time. They are bound to have some old feelings for each other."


    "I think Elder Meng has changed a lot from his previous self. It can even be called a complete renewal. I believe he will not fall for this Gong Yan''er''s honey trap again." Dong Wan nodded. He was now an ardent supporter of Meng Yiqiu.


    "I''ll talk to you later. I need to pass on the message," said Liu Qingsha.


    Liu Qingsha quickly came to the main entrance of the manor.


    Gong Yan''er was standing at the door with a baby. Behind her was a group of female disciples from the Centaurea Valley. Many of them were beautiful, with two rather old women.


    Liu Qingsha walked out and swept her gaze over them. She said indifferently, "My Master said that only Fairy Gong is to enter. As for the rest of you from Centaurea Valley, stay here and wait."


    "The Valley Lady has ordered us to protect Disciple-Niece Gong," said a middle-aged woman.


    "I repeat, Master said that only Fairy Gong is to enter!" Liu Qingsha said coldly. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect and Centaurea Valley did not have a good relationship.


    The Centaurea Valley disciples looked at one another unwillingly but they did not dare act recklessly.


    The current Meng Yiqiu was enough to make the entire Centaurea Valley tremble in fear.


    "Elder Qu, all of you can wait here." Gong Yan''er smiled as she carried her child in.


    "Why is she carrying a child?" Liu Qingsha was puzzled but it was not her place to ask.


    After passing through the manor''s interior, Gong Yan''er arrived in a back garden. She noticed the reading Qin Yun sitting far away at a glance.


    For no apparent reason, Gong Yan''er''s heart tightened.


    "Yiqiu." Gong Yan''er looked at the familiar but also alien figure.


    He was familiar because they had been in love for a rather long period of time. They had also shared many physical, intimate nights.


    It was alien¡­ because the Meng Yiqiu in front of her was too different from the Meng Yiqiu of her memories! Back then, Meng Yiqiu was a prideful man. He fought everywhere with his Frost Sword. He had a sharp pride that exuded from his very bones. But the present Meng Yiqiu was a little thinner and he no longer had that keen air to him. It was as though he was only an ordinary scholar.


    "He was poisoned to the point of being crippled. No one expected that he would revitalize himself and soar into the sky," thought Gong Yan''er.


    Her relationship with Meng Yiqiu back then was one of exploitation. It made it so that she owed him but her heart was also stirring. Her concern that Meng Yiqiu was too thin now baffled her. All sorts of complex emotions were entwining with one another.


    Most of all was there was respect! She even had a sliver of extravagant hope that she could rely on Meng Yiqiu, never to be under Centaurea Valley''s control ever again. Then, she would be able to bring up her child without worry. How good would those days be?


    "He had feelings for me once, after all. Besides, we have a child together now." Gong Yan''er immediately walked towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun looked up and took a glance at Liu Qingsha, who stood behind Gong Yan''er. He gently waved his hand.


    Liu Qingsha respectfully bowed and took her leave.


    Only Qin Yun and Gong Yan''er, as well as the child in her arms, were left in the back garden.


    "This child?" Qin Yun was somewhat puzzled. For some baffling reason, his attention was drawn to the child.


    "Yiqiu." The red-dressed Gong Yan''er smiled and looked at Qin Yun as she carried the child. "Long time no see."


    "I never expected you to have the shame to come see me again," said Qin Yun. "Back when I was poisoned, you abandoned me instantly when I outlived my usefulness. You never came to see me after that. Now, here you are."


    Gong Yan''er was alarmed as she said immediately, "It wasn''t of my own volition. My Centaurea Valley sends all of us disciples wherever they please. We enter the palaces, aristocratic clans, or follow powerful cultivators. As for me, I was ordered by the Centaurea Valley Lady to seduce and use you."


    "So you didn''t like me and were only sent to seduce me." Qin Yun said with a smile.


    "Yes." Gong Yan''er nodded. "When you were poisoned, you were of no use. Centaurea Valley immediately ordered me to leave you. I had no choice in the matter. In fact, I was long sick of living my days like that. If I weren''t forced to do it, then having men go head-over-heels for me is quite interesting. But I have to listen to the orders from the sect. I had to seduce whoever the sect wanted to be seduced."


    "I had enough of it. I was sick and tired of it. Although Centaurea Valley forbids us from having children, I hid away and gave birth to this child."


    "And it''s this child in your bosom?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Gong Yan''er nodded. "It''s your child."


    "My child?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    This¡­This¡­


    Qin Yun''s mind was filled with thoughts and all of them turned into a mess instantaneously.


    "My child with you?" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    "Yes." Gong Yan''er nodded. "You were poisoned. Just two days after I left you, I learned I was pregnant. There''s no need to doubt it. This is your child!"


    Qin Yun felt his head ache.


    "Let me take a look," said Qin Yun.


    Gong Yan''er looked at the child in her bosom and smiled. She held up her hand and gently prodded the child. "Baby, don''t sleep. Quick, look at Daddy." After waking the child up, she handed it over to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun took it with both hands and held it close.


    The closer he was to the child, the stronger the resonating blood bond was.


    At that moment, the child was waking from its stupor. It opened its eyes in a daze as it stared at Qin Yun with its large eyes.


    "Wa!" Following that it burst into tears.


    "Wa! Wa! Wa!!!" The baby wailed as it flailed its tiny arms. It clearly did not recognize Qin Yun.


    "Hush, hush, hush. Don''t cry." Qin Yun quickly soothed the baby. His voice seemed to possess a magical power that made the child slowly stop crying. Instead, it began to look at Qin Yun curiously.


    Only then did Qin Yun heave a sigh of relief.


    "Based on the resonance of our blood, there is a high chance that this child belongs to this body," thought Qin Yun.


    "Woosh."


    There was a sudden wind.


    Gong Yan''er felt Qin Yun''s surroundings turn into a blur. The wind howled but she could not see anything clearly.


    "Freeze." Qin Yun extended his finger. With a thought, he used his intent domain to obtain a tiny portion of spiritual energy to cast a Dao Domain. His fingertip suffused a runic pattern as he gently touched the baby''s face. Immediately, the resonance intensified by more than a hundred times.


    "Little guy." Qin Yun smiled as he looked at the child''s exposed privates. "I''m your daddy from now on."


    Qin Yun loved children.


    He and Yi Xiao had been childless for years. After all, they had powerful bloodlines. One of them was at the purplish-gold Golden Core realm and the other was a descendant of the Dragon race.


    ¡­


    Gong Yan''er watched Qin Yun tease the infant and could help but feel relieved. She was afraid that the father of her child would not like the child.


    "Gong Yan''er."


    With baby in arms, Qin Yun said, "Why come here now? Do you think I will spare you because we have a child together? I nearly died from being poisoned because of you. I could let that matter rest but more importantly, it resulted in the death of my master! With my master dead, how can I spare you?"


    Gong Yan''er''s face turned pale.


    She had the extravagant hope that Meng Yiqiu still had feelings for her and that he would let her stay with him on account of the child.


    She really wanted to bring the child up by his side. She was also willing to stay and rely on him.


    "Alright then." Gong Yan''er''s eyes welled with tears. "Kill me if you want to. All I wish is that you take good care of our child. Also, I wish that you would protect my mother and family who are still at the mercy of Centaurea Valley. It has always used my family to threaten me. With your present strength, you can easily protect them."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. "I will do as you say! Gong Yan''er, I do want to keep you by my side but my master died because of you. And if not for my sudden breakthrough, the entire Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would have perished at the hands of the Blood Saber Palace. How can I spare you? Master treated me like a son¡­ So, there is only death left for you!"


    With that said, Qin Yun extended his arm and the Frost Sword unsheathed itself and flew into his hand.


    "Meng Yiqiu, you are indeed different." Gong Yan''er smiled. "Back then you were too foolish, but you are a lot more decisive now. I have had enough of this life anyway. I do owe you a lot. I have nothing to say if I were to die by your hand."


    "I cannot keep you around." Qin Yun said as he thrust Frost Sword.


    Gong Yan''er watched as Frost Sword came thrusting at her. It wasn''t fast but she didn''t dodge. All she hoped for was that Qin Yun would stop his sword.


    But he didn''t!


    The sword came thrusting over. Although it wasn''t fast, it still stabbed into Gong Yan''er''s left chest, straight into her heart!


    Gong Yan''er gave him a tragic smile.


    She looked at the man in front of her and smiled. "Remember, take good care of our child."


    "Don''t worry," said Qin Yun.


    "How cold."


    Gong Yan''er felt her entire body turn ice-cold. "Is this the feeling of death?"


    Following that, her consciousness plummeted into darkness as she slumped to the ground.


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun''s Frost Sword stabbed into Gong Yan''er''s heart, the sharp blade produced a frost that permeated her heart at the moment of contact. It also froze Gong Yan''er''s body.


    "She really didn''t dodge." Qin Yun was surprised. With a flick of his finger, a pill he had already prepared flew out and entered Gong Yan''er''s mouth.


    The envelopment of the Dao domain permeated every inch of Gong Yan''er''s body.


    The pill''s medicinal essence quickly activated. Gong Yan''er''s heart had been stabbed but it froze the moment that it happened. In fact, her heart was not seriously damaged at all. With the medicinal essence''s help, it was rapidly healing. The pill was obtained from Immortal Sage Physician Xiao Chun. His medical skills were among the best in the world.


    Although the heart was a vital organ that would lead to death if it was crushed, all that was left on it was a tiny puncture! With Qin Yun''s abilities as a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao and the pill, he naturally controlled his strike perfectly.


    Gong Yan''er, who was lying on the ground, gradually awakened.


    She was still in a daze as she looked at Qin Yun who was carrying the child with one arm.


    "I¡­ I¡­" Gong Yan''er was still very confused.


    "Aren''t you going to get up now?" asked Qin Yun.


    Gong Yan''er stood up and touched her chest. There was some cloth torn from her chest but the wound had already healed.


    "You still showed concern for the child even while facing death." Qin Yun nodded. "It''s best you take care of it yourself in the future." With that said, he handed the infant back to her.


    Gong Yan''er received the child in a daze. "You¡­ you aren''t killing me. But I implicated your master¡­"


    "Enough." Qin Yun frowned.


    In fact, Qin Yun had already worked out the scheme. "Feng Qingcang''s death was a result of the Wei Kingdom! It has long set its sights on the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. First, it had Feng Qingcang killed, then it sent the Blood Saber Palace to deal with the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. It also sent Icefiend and Firefiend to kill me¡­ Even without Gong Yan''er, the Wei Kingdom would have taken action either way."


    "I do not feel at ease letting someone else take care of the child. Ignoring everything else about Gong Yan''er, her feelings for the child are genuine," thought Qin Yun.


    Gong Yan''er hugged the child, feeling happy and excited.


    "Leave Centaurea Valley and settle down here. Take good care of the child and teach it," said Qin Yun. After all, the child was his son in this world! Over the next fifty years, Qin Yun would also take good care of it. "As for your parents and family, there''s no need to worry. I''ll arrange everything for you."


    "Okay." Gong Yan''er continued hugging her child and nodded immediately.

 277 Snowstorm during the Twelfth Moon

    Chapter 277: Snowstorm during the Twelfth Moon


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Soon, all the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples in the manor learned that Elder Meng actually had a son!


    "I never expected Gong Yan''er to have this up her sleeve."


    "Truly impressive."


    Elder Meng''s only child had to be protected and well taken care of! Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha had no choice but to obediently arrange for a residence for Gong Yan''er and the child. They followed Qin Yun''s instructions and demarcated a small area in the manor to be set aside for mother and son!


    That evening.


    Qin Yun sat inside a pavilion reading while Gong Yan''er sat to the side with the child in her bosom.


    "Master, Elder Qu from Centaurea Valley is here," Liu Qingsha said politely. A middle-aged woman walked in. She was the only Connate Elder in the Centaurea Valley entourage that came with Gong Yan''er.


    "Greetings, In-law, I''m Qu Ying from Centaurea Valley." Elder Qu might have been old but she had an elegant figure. The years had not weathered away her charm.


    Upon hearing how she addressed Qin Yun, Liu Qingsha frowned slightly as she glanced at Elder Qu.


    "I am not an in-law of your Centaurea Valley. Don''t address me as you please," said Qin Yun nonchalantly as he read his book.


    "Yes, Young Master Meng." Elder Qu was extremely humble.


    "Bring Gong Yan''er''s family to Sovereign Capital in half a month''s time." Qin Yun swept his gaze across Elder Qu.


    "It''s about time Disciple-Niece Gong has a reunion with her family. That''s a trivial matter. They will be here before half a month is up," said Elder Qu with a smile.


    Gong Yan''er heaved a sigh of relief when she saw how it played out.


    The sect would frequently use her parents and family to threaten her. Now, just a word from Meng Yiqiu was enough to make Centaurea Valley give them up immediately.


    "Also, from this moment forth, Gong Yan''er is no longer a disciple of Centaurea Valley," said Qin Yun.


    "Disciple-Niece Gong, you wish to leave the sect?" Elder Qu was somewhat surprised.


    "Yes." Gong Yan''er nodded.


    She had had enough!


    "Since Disciple-Niece Gong wishes to leave the sect, so be it." Elder Qu shook her head. "When I left to come here, Valley Lady ordered that everything Young Master Meng says shall be abided!"


    Qin Yun was somewhat surprised.


    Centaurea Valley had not even tried to negotiate. They agreed to whatever he wanted! He saw them in a different light.


    "Young Master Meng," said Elder Qu with a smile. "Regardless, Disciple-Niece Gong grew up in Centaurea Valley. Centaurea Valley is her family. Now that she''s in Sovereign Capital, she has no one familiar to her that can tend to her needs. We came to Sovereign Capital with a group of Centaurea Valley disciples. Shall I leave them here to take care of her?"


    Qin Yun looked at Gong Yan''er.


    "There''s no need for everyone to stay," said Gong Yan''er. "Just have the Chun Tao trio stay here with me."


    Qin Yun knew of them.


    The three maidservants had served Gong Yan''er for a long time. They grew up together and had a close relationship.


    "Alright then." Elder Qu did not persist. She smiled at Qin Yun. "Elder Meng, to be honest, my Centaurea Valley has always thought highly of you. We felt that you were extremely talented and had a limitless future. It was the reason why we sent the best member of my Centaurea Valley''s younger generation, Fairy Crabapple, to be with you. We had even decided for the both of you to spend the rest of your lives together. But we never expected you to be inflicted with a lethal poison. You should know that it was not something my Centaurea Valley wanted either! To the Centaurea Valley, it was in our interests that you stayed strong."


    Qin Yun found such an explanation acceptable.


    Indeed, Centaurea Valley liked to marry their excellent disciples to powerful experts! Meng Yiqiu was shaping up to be an pawn for them back then. Since Centaurea Valley invested so much into him, of course they would not want him dead! It was best if Meng Yiqiu ended up being strong. Centaurea Valley had given Gong Yan''er''s virginity to him, after all. It was quite a sizable price to pay.


    "You may leave," said Qin Yun.


    "Elder Meng, you do know that my Centaurea Valley is everywhere in the world. If there is any help you require from Centaurea Valley, feel free to ask." Elder Qu smiled before taking her leave.


    He watched as Elder Qu departed.


    Qin Yun put down the book in his hand and said with a smile, "It''s no wonder so many cultivation experts revel in their comforts despite knowing that they are being used. The Centaurea Valley truly has impressive means."


    "The stronger a person is, the better they will treat that person," explained Gong Yan''er. "That Lord Greentiger is like a king to my Centaurea Valley. Many beauties serve him and abide by his every wish."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Lord Greentiger was an itinerant cultivator overseas, ranked seventeenth on the Heaven roll.


    Yet, he fell for the comforts of Centaurea Valley and took up permanent residence there!


    "In the Centaurea Valley''s eyes," said Gong Yan''er, "they do not need to impose any conditions with your present strength. All they want is to let the world know that you have a close relationship with Centaurea Valley. They earn many benefits just by draping your tiger skin. Furthermore, they will keep helping you and not ask for anything in return. However, after a certain amount of giving, you would owe them. You would then naturally stand on their side."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    There were many sects that looked down on Centaurea Valley but it had managed to last eight centuries, a period longer than most dynasties.


    ¡­


    Time flew by.


    His senior brother, Sect Master Zuo Tang, and his sister, Meng Yuxiang, were very happy. After all, Meng Yiqiu had a son! They were only unhappy that the child''s mother was Gong Yan''er. But for the child''s sake, they could only bear with it.


    More than ten days later.


    Gong Yan''er''s family arrived.


    "Yan''er, why did you leave Centaurea Valley? Valley Lady told me that she planned on making you an Elder in Centaurea Valley. Furthermore, your status would be phenomenal. Even Valley Lady would not order you around." Gong Yan''er''s mother said immediately, "Even I have been promoted to being General Manager of Centaurea Valley''s East Yard. Those that domineered over me the past year are now fawning over me. Even Elders have to treat me well."


    Gong Yan''er''s mother was rather pleased and smug.


    She had been considered an inferior all her life but now she enjoyed a high status. She naturally felt good while basking in the limelight.


    "Besides, I''m not familiar with Sovereign Capital. I''m already accustomed to Centaurea Valley. Don''t try to persuade me. I still want to return," said her mother.


    "General Manager of the East Yard? Valley Lady sure is willing to give a lot to keep me." Gong Yan''er was exasperated.


    "Yan''er, your younger brother and I will stay here," said her father.


    Gong Yan''er smiled.


    "Yan''er," persuaded her mother. "Even your sister and cousins have had their positions uplifted. Regardless, all of us will be relying on you. It''s best you do not leave the sect. Wouldn''t it be nice to be an Elder? It''s not like you''ll need to do anything if you return."


    "Mom, I won''t try to make you stay here if you don''t want to. You shouldn''t try to make me go either." Gong Yan''er shook her head.


    "Sigh." Her mother shook her head before saying, "By the way, you must please In-law well. We were liberated and your sister and cousin can enjoy their new status all thanks to him. If he doesn''t want you, Centaurea Valley will lose decorum with us immediately. I''ve been in Centaurea Valley all my life. I know this very well."


    Gong Yan''er nodded.


    She also knew that well!


    However, Gong Yan''er could sense that Meng Yiqiu no longer had the feelings he had for her in the past.


    "In fact, if you were to stay in Centaurea Valley, with In-law as your backer, you might have a chance of becoming Valley Lady yourself," said her mother immediately.


    "Enough." Gong Yan''er stood up. "I''m tired. I''ll go back and take a rest."


    Her mother gave an obsequious smile. "Alright, go and have your rest."


    ¡­


    It was true that Qin Yun did not have any feelings for Gong Yan''er. After all, he was not Meng Yiqiu.


    However, Qin Yun showed a lot of concern for the child. Due to the karma of the body, he had to take good care of him. Besides, he liked children to begin with. Finally, he was destined to be the child''s father for fifty years.


    Days passed one after another.


    Qin Yun would frequently head to the arsenal in the Chu Kingdom''s imperial palace to browse through manuals. He spent three months there before he finished reading all of them. He memorized them and following that, he returned to his residence and leisurely began research for his Sword Dao.


    While researching¡­ he would occasionally visit his younger sister and accompany his son, Meng Huan.


    "It''s snowing!"


    "It''s snowing!"


    It was winter in the twelfth month of the year. Snow fluttered in the sky and there was a thick layer of snow accumulating early in the morning.


    Meng Yuxiang also came to visit with her daughter. The young girl happily ran in the snow and shouted, "It''s snowing! It''s snowing!" Meng Huan, who could now walk, also laughed as he ran after his cousin. Gong Yan''er carefully followed behind her son to make sure he didn''t fall or run into something.


    "This snow sure is heavy." Qin Yun sat inside a pavilion, drinking warm tea and eating pastries.


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang came over and sat down. She whispered, "Have you heard the news?"


    "What news?" Qin Yun asked.


    "According to Qifeng, His Majesty''s health is dire," said Meng Yuxiang immediately. "He can''t even eat or drink anymore! Even ordinary people would not be able to survive for long if they do not eat or drink. His Majesty probably has few days left. Now, Sovereign Capital is secretly in chaos. The Duan family has many people coming in and out every day. I''m flustered just watching it."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun nodded and said with a smile, "The Duan family supports Crown Prince. It''s a critical moment now. They would naturally be on edge."


    The battle for the throne was a huge matter for the Chu Kingdom. The Yan and Wei Kingdoms were also secretly inciting chaos.


    However, all of that was trivial to Qin Yun.

 278 One Strike

    Chapter 278: One Strike


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother," said Meng Yuxiang anxiously. "I''m a little scared. The last time the Chu Kingdom throne changed hands, it was chaos. Even Qiguo Manor was razed to the ground."


    Large family clans were experienced and knew that power and wealth could be erased very easily.


    "What''s there to be afraid of? No one will dare touch you," said Qin Yun. Following that, he took out a protective charm and handed it to his sister. "Carry this protective charm with you. If you ever encounter danger, just tear it and I''ll come to your side."


    Meng Yuxiang was immediately delighted when she heard that. She quickly took the charm and kept it close to her body.


    "All you need to care about is taking it easy. In a few days, the new king of the Chu Kingdom will be decided and everything will return to normal," consoled Qin Yun.


    "Okay." Meng Yuxiang nodded. After obtaining the protective charm and her brother''s assurance, she did feel a lot more relieved.


    The snowstorm continued.


    The five-year-old girl Tong''er and the one-year-old boy Meng Huan, who had just learned to walk, were playing in the snow. The maidservants and Gong Yan''er watched over them.


    Qin Yun smiled as he took it all in.


    ¡­


    The mood in Sovereign Capital clearly became more anxious. The number of constables that patrolled the city also increased. Even the brothels and restaurants suffered a loss in business.


    The nobles in Sovereign Capital also became more careful, acting as though they were treading on thin ice.


    In a blink of an eye, another five days passed.


    It was the twenty-sixth night of the last month of the year.


    Not far away from where Qin Yun stayed was a new outpost of Centaurea Valley.


    "King Chu has passed away. Quickly spread the news," instructed Elder Qu Ying.


    "Yes." The three female disciples were astonished but they responded respectfully.


    "Elder Qu Ying stood up and went out. She headed for the nearby manor where Qin Yun stayed.


    "Elder Qu." The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples responsible for manning the entrance stopped her. They knew she was a Connate expert so they were very polite.


    "I want to meet Young Master Meng. Something major has happened," said Elder Qu Ying immediately.


    "Alright." The two disciples were somewhat perplexed but they quickly reported the matter.


    Soon.


    Qin Yun woke up and met Elder Qu Ying in a side hall.


    "Elder Qu, might I know why you are here so late into the night?" Qin Yun looked at her.


    "Young Master Meng," said Elder Qu Ying. "My Centaurea Valley has just received news that King Chu has passed away."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Centaurea Valley sure is at the forefront of the news. Even my Zhou Mountain Sword Sect does not know anything about it."


    Elder Qu Ying smiled and said, "My Centaurea Valley is only slightly better when it comes to gathering news. King Chu''s passing is an important matter so I came to inform you first! I still have other matters to attend to. I won''t disturb you any further."


    "Alright, go on." Qin Yun smiled as he nodded. He imagined that all the forces of Centaurea Valley in Sovereign Capital were in for a sleepless night.


    Elder Qu Ying quickly departed.


    Qin Yun continued drinking tea in the side hall. At the same time, he released his Dao domain! Everything within a ten kilometer radius was covered by his perception. The Quelling Duke''s Duan family was about seven kilometers away from him so it was naturally within his range!


    "Elder." Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha greeted. Both of them were also informed that Elder Qu Ying had visited late in the night.


    "Centaurea Valley came to inform me that King Chu has passed away," said Qin Yun.


    "What?" Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha were alarmed.


    "Alright, both of you just need to peacefully guard this area. There''s no need to bother with external affairs," instructed Qin Yun. "Go and awaken the other disciples. Guard the area well. Sovereign Capital might be quite chaotic tonight."


    "Yes." Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha respectfully acknowledged the order before taking their leave.


    Qin Yun continued using his Dao domain to probe.


    If one probed with one''s psyche, powerful experts could sense it. As for a Dao domain, it was relatively difficult to detect unless the other person''s Dao was on par with Qin Yun''s. In all of Sovereign Capital, only Li Ruji, second on the God roll, might fit that description, and he was in the imperial palace. Although he had an extremely strong body, his Dao was inferior to Qin Yun''s.


    Furthermore, the imperial palace was more than ten kilometers from where Qin Yun was.


    "Interesting. Two Heaven roll experts are together?" Qin Yun discovered such a scene. Events within ten kilometers that could catch Qin Yun''s attention were at the Connate realm at the very least.


    The area surrounding Quelling Duke Manor was where the nobles lived.


    Eighth Prince and his master, Mr Zhou, lived there as well.


    Mr Zhou''s name was Zhou Fu, and he was an itinerant cultivator. Eighth Prince managed to acquaint himself with Mr Zhou by fortuitous luck and became his disciple. Later on, Mr Zhou reveal his true strength. Only then did people learn of him. He was an expert on the Heaven roll, ranked sixteenth!


    ¡­


    In a study in Mr Zhou''s residence.


    "Elder Zhou, should we take the opportunity to deal with Meng Yiqiu tonight? If we want to wipe out the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, we need to get rid of Meng Yiqiu first." Two men stood respectfully beside Mr Zhou. "Icefiend, Firefiend and Sect Master Xiao died at his hand. It''s very difficult to kill him. We can leverage the situation and cause civil strife in the Chu Kingdom. Even if Meng Yiqiu isn''t killed, it will cause animosity between him and the Chu royal family."


    "Meng Yiqiu is ranked on the Heaven roll. Even I am not confident I could take him down." Mr Zhou''s beard and hair were white. He gently shook his head. "Don''t complicate things. We must ensure that Eighth Prince ascends to the throne tonight. As for Meng Yiqiu? Let''s wait until the future to wipe them all out at once."


    "Yes," said the two respectfully.


    "Go." Mr Zhou waved his hand. "Act exactly according to plan."


    The duo immediately and silently departed through a secret passage.


    Mr Zhou walked out of the study and, with a tap of his foot, noiselessly left the manor. The streets were quiet and since it was late into the night, there was no one out. The only sources of light were the lanterns hung on the aristocrat''s manors.


    "Oh?" Mr Zhou suddenly stopped.


    In the middle of the streets up ahead was a stocky elder wielding a spear. He stood there like a volcano that was about to erupt. He exuded a horrifying sense of intimidation.


    "Grand General Xue." Mr Zhou was alarmed as he cupped his hands slightly. "Why are you here so late into the night?"


    Xue Chong was presently ninth on the Heaven roll!


    He was also the only Heaven roll expert that was absolutely loyal to the Chu royal family! As for Meng Yiqiu and Yu Zige, it wasn''t easy for the Chu royal family to get them to do their bidding.


    "Hmph." Xue Chong''s eyes were filled with bloodlust. "Old fool Taishu, why the deception? Do you think that no one can identify you after you changed your appearance?"


    Mr Zhou''s expression changed before he chuckled. His voice became a lot more piercing. "I have been trying my best to avoid you. All I did was meet you once in Sovereign Capital but I never expected you to recognize me. It''s been a hundred and thirty years. During this period, my strength has also improved greatly. I have changed my cultivation formulations too. My aura is different from what it was and I even changed my appearance. Yet, you still managed to recognize me."


    "Taishu Chen! You are from the Wei Kingdom but you actually fooled the world and became His Highness the Eighth Prince''s master." Xue Chong sneered. "You can fool others but you can''t fool me."


    "Cut the crap." Mr Zhou''s figured instantly turned spectral, like he was a hawk that was swooping down on its prey.


    "Kill!"


    Xue Chong stirred tumultuous blood waves with his spear. He charged forward bravely like he was on the battlefield.


    ¡­


    This battle was extremely intense and terrifying. The aftershocks collapsed several manor walls. However, the aristocrats living in the area continued hiding. No one dared to go outside and watch.


    Both parties exchanged more than ten strikes before Mr Zhou fled.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    In terms of speed, Mr Zhou clearly held the advantage. He darted around rapidly in the dark streets of Sovereign Capital until soon, he shook off Xue Chong.


    "Cough." Grand General Xue Chong stood in his spot with a spear in hand. He held his chest and coughed twice, spitting out a mouthful of blood. His eyes suffused coldness. "I was only fifty to sixty percent confident about his true identity. But I have confirmed it after our clash. This Taishu Chen is a Wei Kingdom expert but he took on another identity and even infiltrated my Chu Kingdom. Hmph, now with his identity exposed, there is no way he can continue staying by the Eighth Prince''s side."


    "However, that old fool sure is strong. Years ago, I was just slightly weaker than him. Now, I''m still slightly weaker than him." Xue Chong shook his head. "His true strength is probably within the top five of the Heaven roll."


    ¡­


    Mr Zhou escaped rapidly to a spot more than five kilometers away.


    "Hmph! If I was given enough time, I would definitely have taken that Xue Chong''s life," thought Mr Zhou. "However, if I stayed any longer, that Li Ruji could very likely have appeared."


    God of War Li Ruji, second on the God roll, an existence that had stepped into the Dao!


    Mr Zhou had only a ten to twenty percent chance of escaping if he encountered Li Ruji.


    "Oh?"


    Mr Zhou''s expression changed suddenly.


    There was a young man sitting on a boulder beside a river up ahead. He was drinking from an alcohol calabash.


    "Taishu Chen. I''ve been waiting for you for such a long time." Qin Yun put down his alcohol calabash and smiled.


    Mr Zhou had a hideous expression. "Meng Yiqiu!"


    There were few in Sovereign Capital that left him worried. He had encountered Grand General Xue Chong just moments before, and now there was Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu right in front of him.


    "Do you have what it takes to face me?" Mr Zhou carefully surveyed his surroundings. Could Li Ruji already be here?


    "Don''t worry. There''s no one else here," said Qin Yun.


    Mr Zhou was slightly taken aback.


    No one else?


    Meng Yiqiu planned to deal with him alone?


    "Taishu Chen, you must be the Wei Kingdom leader in Sovereign Capital, aren''t you? Were you the one that sent Icefiend, Firefiend, and Immortal Sage Physician Xiao Chun to attack me?" asked Qin Yun. "Was it you who arranged to have my master killed?"


    "The assassination was indeed approved by me. Why? Are you trying to seek revenge?" Mr Zhou sneered. "Meng Yiqiu. You are too young. If you had several more decades, I might be a little more afraid of you. As for now? Hehe¡­"


    Qin Yun stood up.


    Schwing. He drew Frost Sword out swiftly.


    "Yes, revenge." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Hahaha, I won''t entertain you." Mr Zhou instantly flew away like a hawk that spanned its wings.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun moved as well, and his speed was much faster than Mr Zhou''s.


    "What!?" Mr Zhou was alarmed.


    A sword beam flashed!


    Qin Yun dropped down and sheathed Frost Sword. The escaping Mr Zhou plummeted from midair and plopped to the ground. He was no longer breathing.

 279 Ascension to the Throne

    Chapter 279: Ascension to the Throne


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun walked up to Mr Zhou''s corpse. Even in death, his eyes were filled with horror. Clearly, he found it unbelievable that he could not survive a single strike from Meng Yiqiu despite being ranked fifth on the Heaven roll.


    "Taishu Chen, despite being a well-known Heaven roll expert, you actually changed your entire name. You even became the Eighth Prince''s master. From the looks of it, the Wei Kingdom is burning with ambition. Now that I think about it, the person ranked first on the God roll is now in the Wei Kingdom. He is also the strongest person in this world, so how could he not be an ambitious person?" Qin Yun looked at the corpse in front of him. Through his Dao domain, he could see all the precious treasures on Taishu Chen''s corpse clearly.


    Following that, he thought a simple command.


    "Whoosh."


    Taishu Chen''s corpse was reduced to powder before scattering into the world. Only a glove as thin as the wings of a cicada and some currency bills were left behind. To Qin Yun, these treasures didn''t matter as he could only have them for fifty years anyway. However, he needed to consider his younger sister, Meng Yuxiang, the one-year-old Meng Huan, and the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect as well.


    "Time to leave." With the spoils of war put away, Qin Yun streaked across the sky. He flashed through the night sky, returning to his residence.


    Only bits of blood were left on the quiet and isolated street.


    The battle was completely silent. No one knew that Mr Zhou, or Taishu Chen, was already dead!


    ¡­


    That night, Sovereign Capital was destined to remain sleepless.


    Candles were lit.


    Although Qin Yun was reading leisurely in his study, his Dao domain covered ten kilometers of his surroundings, including the Duan family.


    "Although I could not be bothered to entertain that Crown Prince, killing Taishu Chen was actually helping him in a manner." Qin Yun chuckled. He could not be bothered to think on it further as he read carefreely. To him, it did not matter who inherited the throne.


    ******


    On the twenty-seventh day of the last month of the year, the sky slowly lit up.


    In a hall in Quelling Duke Manor.


    Duan Qiyu was sitting there feeling uneasy. The Matriarch, who sat beside him, was also uneasy. The news that they had been receiving was extremely unfavorable towards them.


    "Sou!"


    The door to the hall remained open as a figure flew in from outside. The moment he entered, he bowed respectfully.


    "So how is it?" Duan Qiyu immediately stood up and asked anxiously.


    The gray-robed man replied respectfully, "Lord, Matriarch. I just received news from the palace that before His Majesty passed away, he designated that the Eighth Prince would inherit the throne in a testament."


    The color in Duan Qiyu''s face drained as he slumped down. He sat there in a daze, his eyes turbid with despair.


    "We''re doomed. We''re doomed." Duan Qiyu was trembling.


    "Eighth Prince?" Matriarch''s expression was contorted but she still managed to wave her hand. The gray-robed man bowed respectfully before making his retreat.


    "Li Cheng had a grudge with me because of Yuan''er years ago." Duan Qiyu''s voice trembled. "Back then, I was high-spirited and thought nothing of a prince that had no hopes of inheriting the throne. I never expected him to become stronger and garner so much support. I obviously stood on the Crown Prince''s side since he was heir apparent, and had numerous advantages. He had the highest chance of inheriting the throne. Who knew¡­ Who knew¡­"


    "Don''t panic." Matriarch bellowed with a frown.


    "Grandmother." Duan Qiyu looked at Matriarch and knelt down. "It''s me. It''s because of me. It''s all my fault that our family has fallen into this predicament. I helped the Crown Prince at all costs. That Li Cheng definitely hates me even more now. Now that he has inherited the throne¡­ he will definitely not spare our Duan family."


    The Matriarch also knew that the Duan family was truly in trouble.


    Since ancient times, the contest for the throne was most heartless and cold!


    Even if there was no earlier grudge, just the Duan family''s full support of the Crown Prince was sufficient reason for Eighth Prince Li Cheng to punish them mercilessly once he took the throne!


    "I''ll go seek out Meng Yiqiu now." Matriarch stood up.


    "Meng Yiqiu."


    Duan Qiyu''s face was pale as he nodded and said, "At this point, Meng Yiqiu is the only one that can save my Duan family. However, the grudge between me and Li Cheng is too great. If the king truly wants our Duan family dealt with, he might strip away our Duan family''s nobility on account of Meng Yiqiu. As for me, the perpetrator of this all, I will probably not escape death."


    "Don''t panic. I''ll meet Meng Yiqiu first," said Matriarch.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was having breakfast. Gong Yan''er had their child in her arms, feeding him congee.


    "Master, the Duan family''s matriarch wishes to seek an audience with you," said Liu Qingsha respectfully.


    "Please invite her in." Qin Yun nodded and instructed. He could not help but sigh. "That Crown Prince sure is useless. I helped him so much but he still lost in the end."


    The vying of the throne in the Chu Kingdom was so vicious and chaotic that even Qin Yun''s help did not ensure the Crown Prince would come out victorious.


    The Crown Prince did hold numerous advantages.


    However, the inheritor of the throne was eventually determined by a testament from the previous king! Of course, the so-called ''testament'' was written by the victor.


    This gave the other princes a chance. Therefore, every king would go through cruel battles to take the throne. This also made it so that every king of the Chu Kingdom possessed powerful means. With God of War Li Ruji presiding over Sovereign Capital, he could watch the princes battle in Sovereign Capital. But he would also ensure that Sovereign Capital did not fall into total chaos.


    Li Ruji was very pleased with the cruel struggles for power that determined the final king.


    "Matriarch." When Qin Yun saw the Duan family''s matriarch arrive with Meng Yuxiang, he immediately said with a smile, "Matriarch, have a seat."


    The Matriarch sat down with a smile.


    As for Meng Yuxiang, she sat beside Gong Yan''er.


    "Sister, Yan''er, leave us two alone for now," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Meng Yuxiang and Gong Yan''er nodded immediately.


    Soon, only Qin Yun and Matriarch were left inside the hall. Liu Qingsha was left to stand guard at the entrance.


    "I believe Young Master Meng already knows that the new king of our Chu Kingdom is the previous Eighth Prince," said Matriarch. "After his ascension to the throne today, it will be made known to the entire world."


    The country could not be leaderless for a day.


    Once the king passed away, the new king would inherit the throne the next day. The new king would also lead the funeral for the late king and announce his coronation to the world.


    "I did hear of it." Qin Yun nodded.


    "The present king, Li Cheng, has an old grudge with my Duan family. And with my Duan family strongly aiding the former Crown Prince, Li Cheng will definitely want to settle scores with us," said Matriarch worriedly. "I can only come to seek your help, Young Master Meng! My wish is that you will protect my Duan family on account of our relationship and the promise you made."


    "Back then, I promised to protect your Duan family in exchange for reading through your Duan family''s White Jade Repository," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Matriarch, don''t you worry."


    Matriarch nodded. "Young Master Meng, if King Chu is bent on dealing with my Duan family, it will probably be difficult for you to stop him. If it comes to worse, it''s fine if my Duan family is stripped of its nobility! If that isn''t enough, my Duan family will be willing to sacrifice Duan Qiyu."


    Although experts on the Heaven roll enjoyed high statuses that even King Chu had to entertain, King Chu was still the country''s sovereign. Backing him was the God of War, Li Ruji. If a family clan were ordered to be destroyed, there was no way a single expert on the Heaven roll could stop it. At best, the punishment would be made lighter on account of the Heaven roll expert.


    "Matriarch, be at ease and return," said Qin Yun. "I will definitely ensure your Duan family''s safety with regards to His Majesty."


    "Thank you, Young Master Meng." Matriarch immediately bowed deeply. Qin Yun immediately stood up and stopped her. "Matriarch, there''s no need to do so."


    "I''ll be troubling you then, Young Master Meng."


    Only then did the Matriarch leave.


    However, as she left, she remained uneasy. "Meng Yiqiu will aid my Duan family with all he has. However, with the new king inheriting the throne today, his spirits are at their highest. Will he be able to secure us? All I can do is hope that the forfeit of our noble titles and Qiyu''s life will allow my Duan family to endure this calamity."


    The Duan family was a large family clan after all. The Matriarch had to consider the lives of thousands of clansmen. For them, she was willing to make certain sacrifices.


    ¡­


    In Myriad Flower Brothel in Sovereign Capital, three men were gathered.


    "Mr Zhou nearly ended up having Eighth Prince destroyed. Eighth Prince was just this short of being finished."


    "I never expected the Eighth Prince to turn the tables under such perilous circumstances!"


    "The Eighth Prince is indeed impressive."


    The trio was filled with delight.


    "By the way, Blackhawk, is Mr Zhou in the East Lake outside the city?"


    "He''s not there! I just sent someone there to search for him."


    "He''s not at East Lake? That is troublesome. Last night, I sent someone to find Mr Zhou but he couldn''t be found in Sovereign Capital. If he''s not at East Lake, where is he?"


    "Mr Zhou is as elusive as a ghost. At times, he vanishes to enter seclusion. But typically, he leaves a message when he does so. And last night was such an important night. He shouldn''t have vanished without a word."


    The trio turned a little flustered.


    Mr Zhou was, in secret, the supreme leader of the Wei Kingdom forces in Sovereign Capital! His identity was so secretive that even the three of them did not know. They had no idea that Mr Zhou''s real name was Taishu Chen.


    "Elder Zhou''s true strength is said to be ranked within the top five of the Heaven roll. Even if he were to encounter the Chu Kingdom''s God of War, Li Ruji, there is a chance for him to flee successfully. He shouldn''t vanish that easily."


    "Search for him again. If we can''t find him today, we have to immediately inform the Wei capital."


    The trio made a decision.


    Men from the Wei Kingdom had been frantically searching for Mr Zhou in secret.


    They looked for him inside and outside Sovereign Capital.


    However, for all their searching¡­ they would never find Mr Zhou!


    ¡­


    And that day, the twenty-seventh day of the last month of the year of Chu Baohong''s 36th reign, the new king of the Chu Kingdom, Li Cheng, inherited the throne. He became the seventh king of the Chu Kingdom and presided over the funeral of the previous king.


    All of Sovereign Capital was filled with flailing white funeral cloths. The brothels and restaurants closed for the day. During the period of mourning, marriage ceremonies and forms of entertainment were banned.

 280 Number One on the God roll

    Chapter 280: Number One on the God roll


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was the sixth day of the first month of the year. In Mt. Dao Excellence outside the northern Wei Kingdom''s capital, there was a large number of troops stationed perennially. Be it royalty or nobility, no one would dare act heedlessly at Mt. Dao Excellence.


    And at that moment, a black-robed middle-aged man was having a stroll up the staircase from the foot of Mt. Dao Excellence. The guards of Mt. Dao Excellence greeted him respectfully.


    "Sect Master."


    "Sect Master."


    All of them were extremely polite.


    The middle-aged man was the sect master of the number one sect in the world, Red Lotus Fiend Sect. He was Xiahou Lie, ranked third on the Heaven roll.


    Xiahou Lie could obviously fly but he was piously taking one step after another. He walked from the foot of the mountain to its summit. The summit was rather cold and desolate. There was only wild grass and gravel, as well as a tiny compound in the distance. The compound had a wooden hut, surrounded by a wooden fence. There were no guards there.


    On the summit, Xiahou Lie stood outside the compound and said politely, "Grandfather."


    "Lie''er, come on in." An old voice sounded.


    Only then did Xiahou Lie push open the wooden door into the tiny yard. He saw the door to the wooden hut open automatically. Sitting cross-legged inside was a silver-haired elder. He opened his eyes, looking at Xiahou Lie through his disheveled hair. Despite the simplicity of the action, Xiahou Lie could not help but feel stifled. The entire yard carried an air of sabers at his throat. It left him afraid.


    The silver-haired elder in front of him filled him with adulation and admiration.


    "Grandfather." Xiahou Lie was extremely respectful.


    The elder in front of him was ranked first on the God roll¡ªFiendlord Xiahou Zhen!


    He was the strongest person in the world! He founded the Red Lotus Fiend Sect and single handedly turned the sect into the best sect in the world. He even established the Wei Kingdom, strengthening it over time.


    "The Chu Kingdom has always had deep roots. God of War Li Ruji was nurtured from a young age and he was extremely talented. He eventually reached first on the God roll. As for my grandfather, he led a poor life in his youth. He only began cultivating at thirty years of age. He lacked money, so he stole it! He lacked natural treasures, so he stole them too! He lacked powerful manuals, so he stole those! He domineered and swept through the land. He managed to grasp the essence of the various manuals and the sect he established eventually became the best in the world. He even surpassed Li Ruji, becoming first on the God roll! If not for Li Ruji''s powerful body, he would have been cleaved to death by Grandfather long ago. My Wei Kingdom is growing in strength and it won''t be long before we will destroy the Chu and Yan Kingdoms. The world will be unified!" Xiahou Lie was extremely reverential to his grandfather.


    Because of his grandfather, the Xiahou lineage shined.


    His grandfather made all the sects of the world tremble. Many experts dreaded him and gave him the name Fiendlord.


    "Lie''er, what might be the reason you came here?" The dreadful Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen was smiling.


    "Grandfather, Taishu Chen was ordered to head to Chu Kingdom but on the night of the twenty-sixth last month, the night in which the late King Chu passed away, there was a covert battle for the throne in Sovereign Capital. However, Taishu Chen vanished that night," Xiahou Lie said immediately. "Men in Sovereign Capital have done their best to search for him but he is nowhere to be found! The only thing we can confirm is that, not far from Taishu Chen''s residence, there was a scuffle. The surrounding yard walls cracked and crumbled from the scuffle. This is the only thing discovered, what appears to be Taishu Chen''s battleground."


    "Vanished? On the twenty-sixth last month?" The silver-haired elder frowned and said. "It''s already the sixth. It''s been about ten days!"


    "Yes, it''s been ten days. If he''s alive, we haven''t seen him. If he''s dead, there''s no corpse." Xiahou Lie said worriedly. "Grandfather, could it be that Taishu Chen is really dead?"


    "He must be dead." The silver-haired elder nodded slightly.


    Xiahou Lie was also feeling vexed and anxious.


    A mighty expert like Taishu Chen was a powerhouse of their Wei Kingdom. The loss of him pained Xiahou Lie''s heart.


    He already suspected that Taishu Chen might be dead but he could not help but consult his grandfather.


    "Interesting." The silver-haired elder suddenly smiled. "Taishu Chen created ''Skyhawk Nine Swoops,'' a flying technique that is great for escaping. Even if Li Ruji himself were to take action, there is only a ten to twenty percent chance of him being able to stop Taishu Chen from fleeing. According to my original calculations, even if he were to die under Li Ruji''s hand, Taishu Chen would be able to struggle with all his might, inflicting damage to the surrounding area. With Sovereign Capital being so densely packed, the collateral damage would spread up to a kilometer, causing countless deaths. Such news would absolutely be known to all. Lie''er, are you telling me that all we know is that there was a scuffle not far from Taishu Chen''s residence?"


    "Yes. The scuffle did not result in a great commotion. Nor did it affect the residents," replied Xiahou Lie.


    "Interesting. Very interesting," said the silver-haired elder with a smile. "From the looks of it, Li Ruji has made another breakthrough in strength. It far exceeds my expectations. That is the only way he could rapidly kill Taishu Chen without causing a commotion."


    "Li Ruji''s strength has improved that tremendously?" Xiahou Lie was alarmed. "Grandfather, is¡­ is that true?"


    "For Taishu Chen to disappear for no apparent reason at such a critical juncture, he is either dead or captured alive," said the silver-haired elder with a smile. "The residents around were not implicated and there was no message left behind. Therefore, he must have been killed quickly with no means to retaliate. Hahaha¡­ for Li Ruji''s strength to improve so tremendously before my death, it''s truly a joyous matter. A joyous matter!"


    "Joyous matter?" Xiahou Lie''s expression turned a little awkward.


    However, the silver-haired elder''s eyes flashed with a burning glint.


    "I have cultivated for more than four hundred years. My end is coming soon." The silver-haired elder looked at the distant mountains and sky, as well as the distant Wei Kingdom''s capital which he could see at a glance. "I have defeated everyone in the God roll one after another. I am invincible; yet, I''m unable to shatter the void and ascend as the legends speak of. I''m unwilling to accept it. Truly unwilling."


    "I really wish to shatter the void and see what lies beyond those limits. I want to see where I would ascend to after my ascension."


    "It is truly a joyous matter that Li Ruji''s strength has increased tremendously. I have finally found a match!"


    "A powerful opponent might allow me to finally shatter the void and ascend before my end comes."


    The silver-haired elder''s eyes were burning. "When I master the ''Ancient Black Fiendbody,'' I can go to Sovereign Capital. There, I will battle Li Ruji! When the time comes, I would also have cultivated a body formulation, allowing me to have a good fight with him. One of us will live and one of us will die."


    "Grandfather, your strength is far above Li Ruji''s. He only managed to survive your previous encounter because of his body," said Xiahou Lie immediately.


    "If his strength has improved tremendously, he should be a threat to me," said the silver-haired elder. "If there''s no threat, hmph! My mastering of the Ancient Black Fiendbody will correct my previous flawas. I''ll be able to kill him in passing!"


    Xiahou Lie also began to anticipate it. "Grandfather, when will you master the Ancient Black Fiendbody?"


    "It won''t take long," answered the silver-haired elder. "I will definitely master it in a few years."


    "Once Li Ruji is dead, the Chu Kingdom''s demise will soon follow." Xiahou Lie turned excited.


    "Li Ruji¡­" The silver-haired elder''s eyes were filled with anticipation. "I hope you will not disappoint me when the time comes!"


    ******


    During the afternoon on the sixth day of the first month of the year in Sovereign Capital.


    A carriage surrounded by numerous guards arrived outside Qin Yun''s manor.


    "Halt." The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples at the entrance immediately stopped them.


    "What insolence!" The guards beside the carriage bellowed immediately.


    The horse carriage came to a halt.


    The carriage''s curtains pulled open. Inside was a yellow-robed man. He smiled at the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciple and instructed, "Tell your Elder Meng that Li Cheng is here to meet him."


    "Li Cheng?" The two Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples were perplexed.


    Who was he? They had never heard of him.


    Their Elder was not someone anyone could meet.


    "Are you blind? He is our Chu Kingdom''s Son of Heaven." An old eunuch stared at them and reproached them.


    "The Chu Kingdom''s Son of Heaven?"


    The two disciples jumped in fright. Seriously? However, it was unlikely anyone would dare to come to their Elder''s manor pretending to be King Chu.


    "I''ll pass the message." A disciple immediately rushed into the manor.


    Inside the manor.


    "Why are you panicking?" Dong Wan could not help but berate him when he saw the disciple running so quickly.


    "Uncle-Master, King Chu is here," said the disciple immediately. "He''s outside. Apparently, he wants to meet Elder Meng."


    "King Chu?" Dong Wan was alarmed. "His Majesty did not enter directly?"


    As the king of the Chu Kingdom, if he were to head to any household, the owner of that household would likely have been awaiting his arrival! Why would he only pass the message after he arrived?

 281 King Chu and Qin Yun

    Chapter 281: King Chu and Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside the manor.


    Li Cheng was still surrounded by guards, in his carriage, waiting for Qin Yun to come out to welcome him.


    "Your Majesty, please come on in," said Dong Wan with a smile after he came to the manor''s entrance.


    Li Cheng pulled open the curtains and looked coldly at Dong Wan.


    By that point, Li Cheng''s heart was burning with anger.


    "I disregarded my status and came to visit him of my own accord. I even waited outside as his guards passed the message of my arrival. Yet still, this Meng Yiqiu actually dares to get a subordinate to receive me? Hmph! Isn''t that ridiculous?" Li Cheng was indeed vexed and angered. However, his composure was indeed extraordinary. He held back his anger as he disembarked the carriage. With the old eunuch and his personal guards in tow, he was led into the manor by Dong Wan.


    "My Elder is in the back garden." Dong Wan led him through the ground respectfully.


    "Oh?"


    With a smile, Li Cheng led his subordinates and guards into the back garden.


    In the back garden, a plainly-dressed Qin Yun was carrying a child while playing with and teasing him. By the side were Gong Yan''er and a few maidservants.


    "Your Majesty, you are here." Qin Yun sat down with the child in his arms. He pointed to a seat across him. "Take a seat."


    Li Cheng''s smile stiffened but he continued maintaining it as he sat down.


    One of the few people who dared to speak to him this casually now that he was king was the old general, Xue Chong, who he had previously visited. Similarly, Grand General Xue Chong did not think too much of a king like him.


    "I just inherited the throne and have many matters to tend to. I only had the chance to come meet you today, Elder Meng. I hope you would not blame me for that," said Li Cheng with a smile.


    "I''m a cultivator, and so I do not bother with such matters. Your Majesty, it would be fine even if you didn''t come see me," replied Qin Yun.


    This wasn''t just Qin Yun, any ordinary expert on the Heaven roll would say the same! The only one they feared was the God of War Li Ruji that was backing the Chu Kingdom''s royalty! As for why there were generations of kings in the Chu Kingdom, it was because Li Ruji devoted his time to cultivation. He could not be bothered with affairs of the mortal world. Therefore, he allowed generations of descendants to inherit the throne. Whoever ended up being king naturally had huge implications for the countless ordinary citizens.


    As for Heaven roll experts? The influence was limited.


    As for Qin Yun? He was unfazed even by Li Ruji. Of the experts on the God roll in this world, only the first-ranked Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen made Qin Yun feel a little threatened.


    "Elder Meng, you might not mind but I still had to come," said Li Cheng with a chuckle. "Speaking of which, my age isn''t much different from yours. However, in terms of cultivation, I''ve yet to enter the Connate realm. I''m far inferior to you, Elder Meng."


    ¡­


    Li Cheng raised various topics in an attempt to find a common ground with Qin Yun. By then, the child Meng Huan, who sat on Qin Yun''s legs, began kicking up a fuss. Qin Yun handed the child over to Gong Yan''er and said immediately, "Yan''er, take Huanhuan out."


    "Alright." Gong Yan''er brought the maidservants with her and bowed at Li Cheng before departing.


    "All of you can take your leave too."


    When Li Cheng saw this, he waved his hand, sending his subordinates, the old eunuch, and his personal guards away.


    Only Qin Yun and Li Cheng were left in the back garden.


    It was then that Li Cheng said, "Elder Meng, there is another reason why I came today."


    "Please speak, Your Majesty." Qin Yun nodded as he held up his teacup.


    "The Duan family has committed nine grave crimes." Li Cheng''s eyes were filled with ferocity. "According to the laws of the Chu Kingdom, all nine branches of a family are to be implicated!"


    Qin Yun was drinking his tea but his eyelids twitched. He shot a glance at Li Cheng. "My younger sister is Second Young Master Duan''s wife. I''m considered a member of the Duan family''s spousal branch. That is included in the nine branches, isn''t it?"


    "No, no!" said Li Cheng immediately. "All I''m saying is that all nine branches should be implicated. However, Elder Meng, your contributions to the Chu Kingdom are immense. As such, the Duan family will experience a light slap on the wrist. Only the main culprit shall be implicated, and not all branches."


    Qin Yun continued drinking his tea as he did not say a word.


    "The Duan family''s head, Duan Qiyu, committed most of the crimes. He should be punished with death," said Li Cheng. "As for the rest, the Duan family''s position as Quelling Duke will be demoted to Quelling Marquis. Elder Meng, what do you think of that?"


    After saying so much, Li Cheng was basically squaring accounts after ascending to the throne! With Li Cheng''s temper, the Duan family should have been raided and wiped out entirely. However, the Duan family had a Heaven roll expert backing it! Li Cheng naturally dreaded him. Before punishing the Duan family, he had to inform Qin Yun ahead of time and obtain his approval before announcing it publicly.


    "In my opinion, Your Majesty should be more benevolent after ascending the throne," Qin Yun put down his teacup and said with a smile. "As to the matter regarding the Duan family, I think it''s best to overlook it and pretend it never happened."


    "Overlook it?" Li Cheng''s expression changed. "Impossible!"


    Qin Yun gave Li Cheng a glance.


    Li Cheng had made up his mind. He knew very well that Li Ruji was backing him! His Li family ruled over the entire Chu Kingdom. Although he did have to gain the favor of experts on the Heaven roll, he still had to be a decisive king. Yielding slightly and taking the Heaven roll experts'' desires into account was sufficient. He could not heed every command of the Heaven roll experts.


    If he did not punish the Duan family, it would only make others think higher of Meng Yiqiu and think that he was a hopeless king.


    "Such a mistake should be met with punishment." Li Cheng stood up. "Elder Meng, I won''t be disturbing you any further."


    "Your Majesty." Qin Yun raised a box beside him and placed it on the table. He opened the box and asked, "Your Majesty, do you recognize this item?"


    Li Cheng took a look.


    Inside the box was a pair of gloves that were as thin as cicada wings.


    "What are these?" Li Cheng was puzzled. "Elder Meng, this is a weapon in the form of a pair of gloves. However, I have never seen it before."


    "You have never seen it before?" Qin Yun was also taken aback.


    This was Taishu Chen''s weapon!


    However, Taishu Chen often disguised his identity and hid his strength. He usually used swords but even so, Qin Yun didn''t think that Li Cheng would have never seen the pair of gloves that belonged to Taishu Chen when he pretended to be Mr Zhou.


    "Your Majesty, you can bring this pair of gloves to Grand General Xue Chong," said Qin Yun with a smile. "When you learn more about them, I believe Your Majesty will not want to punish the Duan family any longer."


    "Oh?" Li Cheng''s pupils shrank.


    "Also, when all is said and done, please return this weapon to me," said Qin Yun. He had no intention of giving the weapon away.


    "Alright."


    Li Cheng did not speak further. He closed the box and left.


    Qin Yun watched as he left.


    ¡­


    Although King Chu''s visit to Elder Meng was kept a secret, the Duan family learned of the visit that night.


    At the Duan family.


    "Brother Qiyu, in the past few days, the various officials and nobles that supported the former Crown Prince have been captured or killed. Today, His Majesty went to visit Elder Meng. That seems to imply that the Duan family is next on the chopping block," said a lanky man with a smile.


    "Brother Wang, do you have any ways of helping my Duan family?" Duan Qiyu looked at the lanky man and asked immediately.


    The lanky man peeped through the windows and saw a few beauties walk past in the distance. They had alluring figures and ways about them that excited him greatly.


    "I forged a friendship with His Majesty over life and death. I can naturally help you if I want to," said the lanky man with a laugh. "However, Brother Qiyu, you should know that there is a price for everything."


    "Please tell me, Brother Wang." Duan Qiyu looked at him.


    "Everyone in Sovereign Capital knows that the Duan Twins have paramount beauty," said the man with a smile. "As long as you agree to give me the Duan Twins as concubines, I, Wang Wanchong will guarantee your family''s safety."


    Duan Qiyu''s face flushed red.


    The Duan Twins were the beloved daughters of the Duan family. One of them was his daughter and the other was his niece.


    "By the way, His Majesty hates you with an insane passion. It will be hard to get him to spare your life." The lanky man added. "But by giving the Duan Twins to me, more than a thousand lives in your Duan family will be spared."


    "Let me consider it," said Duan Qiyu.


    "Don''t consider it any longer. Once His Majesty gives the order, even I won''t be able to do a thing," said the lanky man. "Isn''t it just two women? Are you unwilling to part with two women to save entire family clan?"


    Duan Qiyu hated the thought but he had no other choice.


    "I''ll reply to you in three days," said Duan Qiyu.


    "Haha, I can wait three days but His Majesty might not be able to," said the lanky man as he walked afar. "Once His Majesty gives the order, I won''t be able to do a thing. So, quickly make up your mind."


    As he watched the lanky man depart in laughter, Duan Qiyu harbored resentment in his heart.


    When the Duan family was thriving, it had many clansmen. The Duan family''s men were mostly handsome, such as Duan Qifeng and Duan Qiyu! The wives and concubines that were betrothed to the Duan family naturally had excellent looks as well. After generations¡­ the Duan family was indeed filled with beauties. The Duan family''s Eight Allures, the Duan family''s Twins, all of them were very famous. Even people that married into the family like Meng Yuxiang had extremely good looks too.


    Now that they were in trouble, Wang Wanchong was not the only person that was trying to take the opportunity to snatch the Duan family''s women away.


    "Letting my daughter become a concubine of yours, Wang Wanchong? Dream on." Duan Qiyu was anxious and angry but all he could do was curse secretly. In these times, everyone in the Duan family was feeling anxious.


    ¡­


    The afternoon of the seventh day of the new year.


    King Chu paid another visit to Grand General Xue Chong.


    On the practice ground, Xue Chong was practicing his spear techniques.


    "Grand General, His Majesty is here." A guard rushed to inform him.


    "His Majesty?"


    The stocky Xue Chong emanated an aura like a burning volcano but he converged his aura. He was somewhat puzzled. "Didn''t His Majesty visit me a few days ago? Why is he here again?"


    With that said, Xue Chong threw the spear to a guard beside him and walked straight out.


    Just after he walked out the practicing grounds, he encountered King Chu along the way.


    "Your Majesty." Xue Chong cupped his hands slightly. "What brings you here today?"


    "I have an item that is puzzling me. Grand General, I require you to identify it for me," said King Chu.


    "Oh?" Xue Chong was perplexed. "I wonder what the item is?"


    King Chu extended his hand and the old eunuch beside him immediately passed the box he carried in his arms over respectfully. King Chu took over the box and opened it himself. "Grand General, take a look."


    When Xue Chong saw a pair of gloves as thin as cicada wings in the box, his pupils could not help but contract as his expression changed.

 282 Li Ruji Visits

    Chapter 282: Li Ruji Visits


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "This¡­ This..." Xue Chong looked at the pair of gloves while many thoughts rushed through his head.


    "When I discovered the identity of the Wei Kingdom expert, Taishu Chen, I informed Master immediately that night. But Taishu Chen later vanished. Master and I were secretly investigating the matter but we failed to discover any traces of him," thought Xue Chong. "Even during the battle for the throne, Taishu Chen did not take action at all. I found it strange and thought that he was just being overly careful. I suspected that he might have immediately fled after his identity was exposed, but now his weapon has appeared here. This is a weapon that accompanied him in all of his life-and-death battles. If the weapon is here, it probably means he''s dead."


    "An expert ranked in the top five of the Heaven roll is dead just like that?"


    Xue Chong stared intently at the pair of gloves in the box.


    Li Cheng noticed Xue Chong''s loss of composure so he pressed immediately, "Grand General, what''s so special about this glove weapon?"


    "Where did you get it?" Xue Chong asked immediately, then corrected himself. "Your Majesty, where did you obtain this glove weapon from?"


    Li Cheng was completely puzzled but he immediately replied, "It was Meng Yiqiu who gave it to me."


    With that said, Li Cheng looked around and waved his hand.


    The surrounding entourage immediately bowed and retreated.


    "Meng Yiqiu gave it to you?" pressed Xue Chong.


    "Yes," replied Li Cheng. "I wanted to punish the Duan family but Meng Yiqiu wants to protect the Duan family. Taking him into consideration, I was only planning to punish the main culprit by killing that Duan Qiyu. I never expected Meng Yiqiu to completely disregard me and say that the Duan family should be completely spared. As king, I will not be so easily controlled by him and so I went to leave. He handed me this box with the glove weapon inside and said that once Grand General Xue Chong sees it, I would no longer want to deal with the Duan family."


    "Oh?" Xue Chong was enlightened.


    "This is the reason why I''m here to meet you, Grand General Xue Chong," said Li Cheng.


    Xue Chong pondered for a moment before he extended his hand to hold the box. He grabbed Li Cheng''s arm and said, "Let''s go. Follow me to the palace."


    "Grand General, we are going to the palace now?" Li Cheng was even more perplexed.


    "We are going to see Master."


    When Xue Chong said that, Li Cheng was alarmed.


    He knew very well who Xue Chong was referring to.


    God of War Li Ruji!


    The true ''king'' of the Chu Kingdom! The subsequent generations of kings were just his sons and grandsons.


    Although Li Ruji did not meddle in worldly affairs, he could easily change the sovereign ruler if he so wished.


    "Alright." Li Cheng did not dare to speak any further but he was completely puzzled. "What is so special about this glove weapon that Meng Yiqiu gave me? Why would Grand General Xue Chong immediately want to meet Patriarch?"


    ¡­


    It was right for Xue Chong to immediately seek an audience with Li Ruji, for this matter was of utmost importance.


    That afternoon, two ordinarily dressed old men came to Qin Yun''s manor.


    "Master, up ahead is Meng Yiqiu''s residence." Xue Chong pointed ahead.


    "Oh?" Li Ruji smiled as he looked at the manor.


    Xue Chong was stocky in build and even though he donned ordinary garb, he had an oppressive air about him.


    Although Li Ruji had established the Chu Kingdom and was honored with the title God of War, he was thin and short. His skin was dark and the way he walked was very inconspicuous. However, he was born with tremendous strength and had freakish talent. As a youth, his Li family was a wealthy clan that nurtured him with all they had. He soared and later pushed the family''s heritage, the ''Crimson Jade Formulation'', to an unprecedented level. The Crimson Jade Formulation originally had nine levels and was considered a body formulation.


    However, Li Ruji managed to elevate the Crimson Jade Formulation to the twelfth level! He drew wisdom from numerous manuals, making his body even more terrifying.


    Back then, he relied on his powerful body to defeat everyone in the world, gaining him first place on the God roll.


    But later, Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen appeared. Although his Dao was more brilliant, his body was not as strong as Li Ruji''s. He was unwilling to enter close combat with Li Ruji. Therefore, although the Wei Kingdom was gradually becoming stronger, the situation remained in a status quo of sorts.


    "Halt." The two disciples at the manor entrance shouted immediately, stopping the two old men in front of them.


    Li Ruji did not speak a word but released some of his aura.


    "Boom!!!"


    The two disciples felt as though the thin old man in front of him had turned into a terrifying behemoth. The sense of repression left their faces pale.


    The aura was retracted immediately after it was released.


    Soon after, a young man appeared at the door.


    "Greetings, Mr Li. Greetings, Grand General Xue," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Young Master Meng, the box you gave His Majesty really gave me a fright," said Xue Chong with a smile.


    "Young Master Meng, this is the first time we are meeting, isn''t it?" Li Ruji looked at Qin Yun.


    "Please come in and have a sit," said Qin Yun.


    He had long released his Dao domain.


    Although Li Ruji had extremely terrifying combat strength, the Dao he had stepped into was not particularly powerful. He was unable to sense Qin Yun''s Dao domain at all.


    "Li Ruji''s body is truly powerful. In this world that has such thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, he was still able to cultivate his body to such a stage. From the looks of it, it is as the legends say. He is truly talented," thought Qin Yun. It was just like how the Connate Godfiend''s bloodline made it easier for them to cultivate the Godfiend heritage. Although separated by the vast river of time, there was still the occasional appearance of those with somewhat special bloodlines.


    "For instance, my homeworld''s Primordial Chaos Sect has the relatively complete Physical Establishing Sage. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are much richer, too. Their bodies are usually much stronger than Godfiends or fiendcelestials. For Li Ruji to cultivate to this stage shows his prowess. After all, compared to my homeworld, I do not have an Intrinsic Flying Sword or other Dharma treasures," thought Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun led Li Ruji and Xue Chong into the manor.


    At the entrance, the two disciples that had turned pale from fright heaved a sigh of relief.


    "How terrifying. That old man is too terrifying."


    "Who are those two? Even our Elder came out to welcome them personally."


    "That''s right. Back when His Majesty came here, all Elder Meng did was to get Uncle-Master Dong to walk him in."


    The two disciples discussed.


    ¡­


    In a garden.


    Qin Yun, Li Ruji, and Xue Chong sat down as female attendants served them tea.


    "All of you, take your leave," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes." The group of female attendants immediately left.


    Xue Chong immediately placed a bag he was carrying over his shoulder on the table. He opened it, and the box was inside it. Inside the box was the glove weapon.


    "Young Master Meng." Li Ruji smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "Was Taishu Chen really killed by you?"


    "That''s right." Qin Yun nodded. "Come on, have some tea. Let''s savor the tea as we chat."


    Li Ruji raised his teacup politely. However, his heart tightened when he saw how Qin Yun acknowledged his feat so carefreely.


    "I would like to ask another question. Have you stepped into the Dao yet, Young Master Meng?" pressed Li Ruji.


    "Not yet," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Although he said so verbally, he was grumbling inwardly. "Going from the domain realm to the Paramount realm in two short years is already considered quite a freak of nature! However, there are many people in history that have entered the Paramount realm quickly! In my hometown, reaching the domain realm can happen very fast. Entering the Paramount realm can also be quite fast, but to step into the Dao not long after entering the Paramount realm might appear unnatural. In this world, it''s possible to shatter the void and ascend! It''s also possible that immortals might occasionally descend into the mortal world."


    "In a few years, my stepping into the Dao would appear normal." Qin Yun had already planned a schedule for revealing certain strengths to the world at large.


    This was already nearly the fastest speed possible that still adhered to logic.


    "Oh?"


    When Li Ruji heard that, he said with a smile, "Young Master Meng, you did not step into the Dao but you managed to kill Taishu Chen?"


    "I was better than him at close combat so I was naturally able to kill him," answered Qin Yun.


    Sitting by the side, Xue Chong said, "I fought with Taishu Chen that same night. His flying arts were extremely fast. He''s probably ranked first or second in the Heaven roll!"


    "That''s considered fast?" Qin Yun shook his head gently, "Old General Xue, I might not dare to make claims about other things, but when it comes to speed, Taishu Chen was nothing in front of me."


    "Might I witness your speed? Don''t worry. I won''t harm you," said Li Ruji.


    "Mr Li, go ahead," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Be careful now."


    Once Li Ruji finished his words, he extended his right arm, thrusting it at Qin Yun who was sitting across from him.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun''s figure phased away as he appeared in midair a distance away in the garden.


    "How fast." Xue Chong was alarmed.


    "Sou." Li Ruji flew out and, in a flash, closed the gap between him and Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun gave a faint smile as the space in the garden distorted. Blurry figures appeared, turned corporeal, then flashed away again.


    Suddenly, nine Qin Yuns were standing in midair, watching the encircled Li Ruji.


    "Mr Li, what do you think about my speed?" The nine Qin Yuns spoke simultaneously.


    Even Li Ruji was somewhat alarmed.


    With that, Li Ruji gave a self-deprecating chortle and descended. The nine Qin Yuns in midair vanished as well, with him appearing in his seat once again.


    "This speed¡­" Xue Chong, who had watched this from his seat, found it unbelievable. It was way too fast. Taishu Chen had no way of competing with that!


    "From the looks of it, among the five members on the God roll, only Xiahou Zhen can threaten you, much less anyone on the Heaven roll. The others are completely inferior to you in speed." Li Ruji looked at Qin Yun and was extremely puzzled. "I''m very curious. How are you this fast having only reached the Paramount realm?"


    "I have grasped three Paramount realms," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Two of the Paramount realms are related to speed. I call them Infinite and the other is Small World. The two Paramount realms combined allowed me to create my own flying art."


    "Two Paramount realms that are related to speed? And you combined them to create a flying art?" Li Ruji and Xue Chong were astonished.


    He was truly a freak of nature.


    However, they did not know that the Infinite Paramount realm was a realm that Qin Yun had grasped in another world. Small World was something he was still researching and had not fully grasped. Since he had yet to fully grasp it, the so-called creation of his flying art was naturally just him bragging.


    "I only showcased a little bit of my speed. If I were to showcase my Beam Transformation Art, wouldn''t that scare them into a daze?" thought Qin Yun.


    The Beam Transformation Art, the art he was most skilled in, was usable in this world.


    That was because, in essence, the Beam Transformation Art was an array formation sword technique! It did not require any Dharma treasure weapons to cast it.


    Qin Yun naturally could cast it here.


    And if he truly were to use it¡­ even the members of the God roll in this world would probably not see Qin Yun''s shadow if they blinked.

 283 Five Years Later

    Chapter 283: Five Years Later


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    This visit to Qin Yun ended with both host and guests delighted.


    Li Ruji came to understand what gave Meng Yiqiu his hubris. Perhaps only Xiahou Zhen, first on the God roll, could threaten him. At the very least, no one in their Chu Kingdom was able to do anything to Meng Yiqiu!


    Such an existence could only be befriended, never antagonized!


    ¡­


    After the new king ascended to the throne, the Duan family lived its days in a state of unease, afraid that their entire family clan would be raided and massacred!


    The commoners of Sovereign Capital sighed in regards to this. It was likely that the Duan family''s Twins and Eight Allures would end up in abject states.


    "Beauties have short lives."


    "The Duan family has thrived for so many years. It''s probably going to collapse this time."


    "Who else is to blame for the Duan family''s foolishness but themselves? They should not have taken the side of the former Crown Prince."


    There were many such discussions in Sovereign Capital.


    But on the ninth of the same month, Li Cheng personally visited the Duan family. The Duan family felt fearful but then overwhelmingly flattered as they welcomed him. Li Cheng even expressed his reverence towards the Duan family''s patriarch, Old General Duan¡­


    On the tenth, Duan Qiyu was promoted out of the blue. He was promoted to Commander-in-Chief of the five divisions of Sovereign Capital, the Fiery Mountain Army! The Duan family also had many of its members who were officials promoted. It left many people in Sovereign Capital astounded. It was just days ago that everyone was sure the Duan family was doomed, but now they were prospering. It caught many people by surprise. As for the people truly in power in Sovereign Capital, they vaguely understood the reason¡­


    The underlying reason was the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect Grand Elder staying in the manor beside Emerald Jade Lake¡ªFrost Sword Meng Yiqiu.


    ******


    Time passed and, after various storms and seasons, five years was over in a blink of an eye.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Outside the Wei Kingdom''s capital, on Mt. Dao Excellence, there was laughter coming from the wooden hut on the mountain''s summit. A silver-haired elder walked out cheerfully from the hut.


    "I''ve finally mastered the Ancient Black Fiendbody." The silver-haired elder was feeling delighted.


    "Lie''er, quickly come over." The silver-haired elder directly transmitted his voice to Xiahou Lie, who was in the capital''s palace. Although it was very far, such that his Dao domain could not reach, it was still possible with a psyche release.


    Sou!


    In the distant capital, a stream of light rose into the sky and flew over at an extremely rapid speed. In an instant, it landed on Mt. Dao Excellence. It was Xiahou Lie, who was dressed in a black robe with golden patterns.


    "Grandfather." Xiahou Lie looked at the silver-haired elder in delight. "Grandfather, for you to exit seclusion now¡­ does it mean you have mastered it?"


    "Yes, I have mastered it." The silver-haired elder nodded.


    "Congratulations Grandfather. Congratulations!" Xiahou Lie immediately bowed reverentially. He shouted loudly with a trembling voice.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    The silver-haired elder roared with laughter. "I''ve waited for so many years, and finally this day has come."


    "Yes, we''ve waited for too long. This day is the day our Wei Kingdom will begin to unify and rule over the world." Xiahou Lie was very excited as well.


    "Back when I fought Li Ruji, he had an extremely strong body. Despite my realm being higher than his, I could not risk my life battling him," said the silver-haired elder. "It''s different now. With my mastery of the Ancient Black Fiendbody, I am no longer afraid of life-and-death battles."


    "If his strength has increased sufficiently, allowing him to pose a threat to me, that''s good too! Perhaps he can aid me in improving. I would then have a chance of shattering the void and ascending."


    "If he has not improved, then he is doomed."


    The silver-haired elder was filled with fighting spirit.


    Although unifying the world under one rule was one of his goals, what he coveted most a good battle with Li Ruji.


    The reason was that invincibility was a form of loneliness!


    "Grandfather, what do you plan on doing?" asked Xiahou Lie.


    "Three days from now, I''ll directly set off for the Chu Kingdom''s Sovereign Capital," said the silver-haired elder. "Using my Dao domain, I will be able to easily detect Li Ruji! His flying speed is inferior to mine, so he won''t be able to escape. I will execute him right in the Chu Kingdom''s Sovereign Capital."


    Xiahou Lie felt his blood boil as it coursed through his body.


    The day he had waited for had finally arrived.


    "Grandfather, once Li Ruji dies," said Xiahou Lie. "The Chu Kingdom will fall into panic. All the leaders of the various regions and even the heads of some large family clans would pledge allegiance to our Wei Kingdom."


    "Without a mighty figure that has stepped into the Dao presiding over it, the Chu Kingdom will automatically collapse on itself even if we do not take action," said the silver-haired elder. "Well then, I still need to make some preparations. I want to enter battle in optimal condition. After all, Li Ruji might have already had a great increase in strength."


    "Alright." Xiahou Lie nodded. "I''ll personally guard you for the next three days, Grandfather. I will not allow anyone to disturb you."


    The silver-haired nodded with a faint smile before he returned to the wooden hut and closed the door.


    The silver-haired elder sat cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began composing his mind. He even began picturing the various attacks Li Ruji would throw at him in battle so as to make preparations for the most important battle of his life.


    ******


    Sovereign Capital remained bustling, but no one knew that Sovereign Capital would be the stage for an astounding battle in three days.


    That morning, in the Meng residence beside Emerald Jade Lake.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Qin Yun held his Frost Sword and practiced his swordplay on the practicing ground.


    This was a daily morning ritual. Sword flashes would circulate, producing halos in the surrounding world. One could faintly see the creation or destruction of worlds in the halos, as well as countless nets. At other times, they would transform into surging tidal waves that piled over each other¡­ The different kinds of phenomena represented Qin Yun''s different sword techniques.


    And not far away, a white-teethed boy with red lips was watching Qin Yun practice his swordplay. Sitting beside him was Gong Yan''er.


    Over these five years, Gong Yan''er had become even more ravishing.


    "Huan''er." Gong Yan''er looked at her son and felt her heart wince. "When Huan''er was younger, he was more active. Now that he has grown up, he''s turning quieter. However, he does like watching his father practice his swordplay the most."


    Meng Huan was watching Qin Yun practice his swordplay intently.


    At this age, he did not know any sword techniques but he found his father''s swordplay very cool.


    "Huan''er," Gong Yan''er whispered. "We will be going to the Duan family today. Do you want to see your Big Sisters and Big Brothers?"


    "Okay." Meng Huan responded but his eyes were fixated on Qin Yun''s swordplay.


    "Don''t you miss Big Sisters and Big Brothers?" Gong Yan''er continued asking.


    However, Meng Huan did not say another word.


    Gong Yan''er felt helpless.


    After a long while¡­


    Qin Yun finally ended his practice as he frowned slightly.


    However, when he saw the distant Meng Huan, he could not help but beam. He walked over smiling. "Huan''er."


    "Huan''er enjoys watching you practice your swordplay so much that he doesn''t want to go out and play," said Gong Yan''er helplessly.


    Qin Yun pinched Meng Huan''s tiny face.


    "Dad, your sword techniques just now were so beautiful. So powerful! So pretty! They were prettier than the clouds in the sky," said Meng Huan immediately.


    "Do you want to learn them?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Yea." Meng Huan nodded immediately.


    To the side, Gong Yan''er was astonished as she immediately asked, "You want to start teaching him now?"


    "He''s six. It''s about time to start teaching him," said Qin Yun. "You plan on going to the Duan family today, right? Then go ahead. Huan''er''s sword training will begin tomorrow."


    "Dad, can''t you teach me now?" Meng Huan had already picked up a tree branch and quickly made a few poses with it.


    "Haha, there''s no rush. Since you have a date with the Duan family, go to the Duan family first," said Qin Yun with a laugh. His residence did not have any other children. Meng Huan still needed to play with children his age. As for Quelling Duke Manor, it was a large family clan with more than a thousand people. They obviously had many children.


    With that, Gong Yan''er carried the somewhat reluctant Meng Huan away.


    Qin Yun sat alone in the garden as a female attendant came to serve him tea.


    After landing in this world, Qin Yun''s biggest priority was to cultivate!


    He was dreaming a hundred years for the purpose of cultivation.


    As for gaining dominance in this world or establishing an empire, he had never considered it.


    "There are bigger and bigger problems with my Sword Dao."


    Qin Yun frowned.


    "My Sword Dao had its foundations built up back in my homeworld! In the previous world, I took ten years to step into the Dao. And in the remaining years, it went deeper."


    "But after coming to this world, I realized that my foundations of my Sword Dao were insufficiently robust. There were many aspects I didn''t consider."


    This world was all about close combat.


    Elites from every generation would evolve the old ways and push the various aspects of a sword technique to its limit.


    After drawing on the cumulative wisdom of the numerous generations of this world, he made constant improvements to his Sword Dao.


    "Back then, if I were to ask myself, I would consider my Sword Dao to be sufficiently perfect."


    "However, after drawing from the wisdom of this world''s sword techniques, I have fixed many flaws in various areas. My foundation is a lot better. But with an overly perfect foundation, the crudeness of my Sword Dao is only accentuated." Qin Yun shook his head. "I originally believed that I could just improve it later. But the more I have, the more I find something amiss¡­"

 284 Chaos in Sovereign Capital

    Chapter 284: Chaos in Sovereign Capital


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The path of cultivation was never one of smooth-sailing. One would encounter many obstacles along the way.


    Back when Qin Yun was fifteen, he traveled the world alone and experienced all sorts of dangerous encounters. He survived the northern borders with his brother-in-arms and did not have a master to guide him. With only his most basic sword techniques, Qin Yun eventually grasped the Misty Rain Sword Intent through Expertise Nearing Dao. Now, he was left befuddled during his dream of a hundred years. Qin Yun naturally felt unperturbed for he believed he could overcome all odds.


    From the next day onwards, Qin Yun began happily teaching his son, Meng Huan, the way of the sword.


    ¡­


    Outside the Wei Kingdom''s capital, on the summit of Mt. Dao Excellence.


    Xiahou Lie, the reigning King Wei who was also the reigning Red Lotus Fiend Sect''s Sect Master, personally stood guard outside the wooden hut. Finally, he heard a sound. When he looked back, the silver-haired elder, Xiahou Zhen, had walked out of the wooden hut.


    "Grandfather." Xiahou Lie immediately went forward.


    Xiahou Zhen smiled and extended his hand casually. The gray saber embedded in the middle of the yard flew out together with its scabbard and landed in Xiahou Zhen''s hand.


    "It has been a very long time since you have last tasted blood, hasn''t it?" Xiahou Zhen gently drew the saber out partially. The blade was silver-gray in color and had unique patterns. "You''ll be able to have a great feast this time."


    "Grandfather, you are invincible. Li Ruji will face certain doom." Xiahou Lie was boiling with excitement as well.


    "Li Ruji!"


    Xiahou Zhen looked at the distant south. His voice sounded old but still magnificent. "In this entire world, only he can barely qualify as my opponent. I hope he will not disappoint me."


    "Lie''er, I''m leaving." Xiahou Zhen hung the saber by his waist and immediately flew up into the sky and headed south.


    Xiahou Lie watched from afar, his eyes filled with aspiration.


    Once Li Ruji was dead, the Chu Kingdom would be finished! As for the Yan Kingdom? It was of little consequence. His Wei Kingdom would one day rule over the entire world! And he, Xiahou Lie, would be the emperor of it all!


    ¡­


    Swoosh.


    Xiahou Zhen flew all the way as a beam of light, going straight for the southern Chu Kingdom''s Sovereign Capital!


    In the entire world, other than Qin Yun who had descended into this world from outside, Xiahou Zhen was truly the fastest when it came to flying. He set off in the morning and reached Sovereign Capital by afternoon.


    "Sovereign Capital." Xiahou Zhen could clearly see the distant and massive city. It was much bigger than the Wei capital.


    "Li Ruji, I hope you will not disappoint me in this battle."


    Xiahou Zhen felt his fighting spirit gradually boil as his will blazed with passion.


    Li Ruji was the only worthy opponent he had in the world!


    He had to go all out!


    He wished to make use of the upcoming battle to shatter the void and ascend.


    "Whoosh."


    Fueled by his boiling fighting spirit, Xiahou Zhen quickly arrived above Sovereign Capital. He stood in midair above the Chu Kingdom''s imperial palace.


    His Dao domain enveloped the area.


    Xiahou Zhen easily sensed Li Cheng who was frolicking with his concubine, as well as Li Ruji who was sitting cross-legged in meditation.


    "He can''t sense my Dao domain? His realm is indeed lower than mine." Xiahou Zhen was a little disappointed. "Whatever. This Li Ruji is a freak of nature when it comes to talent. His body is extremely powerful and he is very skilled in close combat. I''m sure he will be able to give me a pleasant surprise when we fight in close quarters."


    "Who?"


    "Who is it?"


    "Someone is in the sky."


    The imperial palace had many guards. It wasn''t long before the guards discovered a person high in the clouds above the imperial palace.


    Xiahou Zhen overlooked the imperial palace. The countless guards were as tiny as ants. He directly shouted, "Li Ruji! Quickly come out and accept your death!"


    The voice rumbled like thunder. It reverberated throughout Sovereign Capital via the Heaven and Earth powers.


    The millions of citizens in Sovereign Capital instantly turned quiet. Such a large city was shocked into silence despite it being broad daylight.


    "Li Ruji¡­"


    "Quickly come out and accept your death¡­death¡­death¡ª" The world echoed.


    The voice rumbled as though it were the heaven and earth speaking.


    As the echoes reverberated, countless people felt chills run through their bones.


    "Oh?" In the imperial palace, Li Ruji looked up towards the sky and instantly detected the silver-haired elder.


    Instantly, Li Ruji''s eyes turned red as his fighting spirit likewise boiled.


    It was the one person, the only opponent that could exert pressure on him.


    "Xiahou Zhen! I have been waiting for you for a very long time!" Li Ruji''s voice similarly quaked through the world. All the Heaven and Earth powers in a several hundred kilometer radius resonated in response. Li Ruji extended his arm as a black spear in his house flew straight out and into his hand.


    Sou!


    Li Ruji similarly flew up into the sky.


    A commotion broke out in the imperial palace.


    Many experts hidden in the imperial palace were panicking. Even Li Cheng, who was busy enjoying his concubine, had a drastic change in expression.


    "What?" Li Cheng pushed his concubine aside and stood up to look at the two figures in the sky. His patriarch, Li Ruji, had just flown up to meet a dangerous foe.


    "Is that Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen?" Li Cheng felt a dark gloom overtake his eyes. "Didn''t the intelligence say that my patriarch''s body is extremely powerful, which makes Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen unwilling to risk his life battling him? Why did he storm here in such an obstreperous manner? Could it be that he is confident in dealing with Patriarch? If Patriarch were to die in battle, my Li family would be finished. The Chu Kingdom would be finished as well."


    Li Cheng never expected that the crisis of his nation''s obliteration would come so soon!


    "First on the God roll, Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen¡­" Li Cheng''s heart chilled as he panicked.


    He idolized his patriarch but when the enemy was Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen, Li Cheng lacked confidence.


    ¡­


    Not only did the imperial palace notice it, the entire Sovereign Capital witnessed this scene.


    The Quelling Duke Duan family had been thriving the past few years. But at that moment, Duan Qiyu was looking high into the sky and heard the words, ''Li Ruji! Quickly come out and accept your death!'' and ''Xiahou Zhen! I have been waiting for you for a very long time!''


    The exchange made Duan Qiyu''s legs go limp.


    "Master, it''s Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen." An elder standing beside him said with a stoic expression.


    "Yes." Duan Qiyu had a pale expression. "Xiahou Zhen has come to Sovereign Capital. Since he dares to come, it''s probably because he''s confident! If he were to really kill the God of War this time¡­ the Chu Kingdom would soon be finished. Chu Kingdom nobles like us would be in trouble."


    "Isn''t there Elder Meng backing our Duan family?" asked the elder.


    Duan Qiyu shook his head. "The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect has always been supporting the Chu Kingdom. For that, the Wei Kingdom will definitely hold a grudge. And just years ago, Elder Meng killed a bunch of experts from the Blood Saber Palace. If the Chu Kingdom were to really fall, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would likely be wiped out by the Wei Kingdom¡­ The only thing Elder Meng could do is hide. Not only would our Duan family be in trouble, we might even be implicated."


    "What do we do? What do we do?" Duan Qiyu panicked.


    "Qiyu." Matriarch had arrived quickly.


    "Grandmother." Duan Qiyu calmed himself upon seeing her arrival. The matriarch was the true person in control of the Duan family. Matriarch waved her hand as the elder beside them took his leave immediately.


    "Grandmother, what do we do now?" Duan Qiyu was flustered.


    "Hope that the God of War will be able to hold back Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen," Matriarch said with a sigh. "If not, the over one thousand lives in our Duan family can only flee and hide all over the world."


    ¡­


    There were many aristocratic family clans that were sharing similar feelings with the Duan family. In the Chu Kingdom, they wielded power and wealth. But if the Chu Kingdom were to fall, it would spell their demise as well. Even if they pledged allegiance to the Wei Kingdom, their standing would never be comparable to what it was in the Chu Kingdom.


    "Quickly record every detail of this battle."


    "A battle between the first and second on the God roll. It determines the fate of the three kingdoms and the world. It will also determine the fates of billions of people."


    Peerless Manor also had people stationed in Sovereign Capital.


    They immediately began making records excitedly.


    It was rare to witness a battle of such scale in one''s life! After all, the ones ranked first and second on the God roll were the founding sovereigns of two kingdoms. It wasn''t common for such entities to fight one another.


    ¡­


    In the Meng residence beside Emerald Jade Lake.


    Qin Yun was teaching Meng Huan the way of the sword. To his side, Gong Yan''er and Meng Yuxiang were chatting idly. Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha were also smiling as they watched Qin Yun teach.


    "Your hand should go from here and thrust out! You are just off a little. Let me teach you once more." Qin Yun was guiding Meng Huan step by step. He used his domain to control Meng Huan''s hands and feet, allowing him to produce the perfect sword move.


    "Have you learned it? Try it again yourself."


    Qin Yun stood to the side.


    "Yea."


    Meng Huan nodded immediately as he began demonstrating the sword move with extreme seriousness. He held a wooden sword in hand which was personally carved by Qin Yun.


    "Li Ruji! Quickly come out and accept your death!" Abruptly, there was a voice that boomed like thunder, resounding throughout the world. The sheer volume of it gave young Meng Huan a scare.


    Qin Yun immediately controlled his domain and lowered the intensity of the voice.


    "Xiahou Zhen! I have been waiting for you for a very long time!" The other voice echoed throughout the world as well.


    "What?"


    The idly chatting Gong Yan''er and Meng Yuxiang had changes in expression as they stood up.


    "Xiahou Zhen and Li Ruji?" Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha felt their hearts clam up. They raised their heads and looked into the distance.


    The four of them were either in the upper echelons of a large sect or from a big family clan. They naturally knew the legendary God roll! The person ranked first on the God roll was Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen, and second was God of War Li Ruji!


    "The two of them are about to fight?"


    "Xiahou Zhen actually dares to storm Sovereign Capital?"


    "Are they going to determine who walks out alive?"


    Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, Dong Wan, and Liu Qingsha were extremely nervous. They knew very well what a life-and-death between the two meant.


    "Yiqiu." Gong Yan''er looked at Qin Yun. "Do you think the God of War will be able to withstand the attack?"


    However, Qin Yun held Meng Huan to his side and said with a smile, "Since Xiahou Zhen came here, he likely has something to rely on."


    "Brother, how can you smile at this critical moment?" Meng Yuxiang was distraught. "If the God of War is defeated, the Chu Kingdom is finished. The Duan family would also be finished. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would probably be destroyed as well."


    "Don''t panic," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Elder, we need to make some preparations," whispered Dong Wan.


    "Yiqiu, leave quickly and hide far away. I''m afraid Xiahou Zhen might really kill the God of War. Following that, he might deal with Old General Xue Chong, Abbot Fish, and you too," said Gong Yan''er hurriedly.

 285 Loneliness

    Chapter 285: Loneliness


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Yes, Brother. Quickly hide," urged Meng Yuxiang as well. "It''s beneath Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen to kill trivial characters like us. He doesn''t even know we exist. But Brother, you are ranked on the Heaven roll. If he were to kill the God of War, you might be next on his list."


    Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha agreed too.


    "Don''t panic." Qin Yun immediately pointed up to the sky. "Look. Li Ruji and Xiahou Zhen have already begun their battle."


    "Battle?"


    Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, Dong Wan, and Liu Qingsha immediately looked up.


    They could not see the two figures that were about fifteen kilometers away, but they could see the shockwaves from the battle.


    Boom! Boom!


    The clash between the two caused the surrounding clouds to blast apart as the shock waves spread through a radius of over a kilometer.


    On one side of the sky was a dark-red surge and on the other, a bluish-gray surge. It was evident that the tidal wave-like bluish-gray surge had the advantage as it completely suppressed the dark-red surge.


    Despite being in this world for so many years, I have never been able to find a powerful opponent." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "From the looks of it, Xiahou Zhen is worthy of being my opponent. I can put all my newly created sword techniques to the test."


    Invincibility was indeed lonely.


    It was even difficult just to find opponents to test the effectiveness and flaws of the many sword techniques he developed in this world.


    Now, Qin Yun was a little excited! He had many sword techniques he wanted to put to the test.


    ¡­


    Above the imperial palace.


    After Li Ruji charged into the sky, he stood across from Xiahou Zhen.


    "Xiahou Zhen, you have feared entering a life-and-death struggle with me for years. You have really become gutsy now." Although Li Ruji was swarthy and small in build, his fighting spirit surged as he brandished his black spear.


    "Li Ruji, you killed Taichen Shu, didn''t you?" Xiahou Zhen remained composed as he quipped.


    "Taichen Shu?"


    Li Ruji hesitated for a moment and said with a nod, "Your Wei Kingdom sent an expert to infiltrate my Chu Kingdom under a different name. Did you think I wouldn''t discover his true identity? Hmph. That Taichen Shu was certainly speedy but he was unable to escape from me."


    It was still a secret that Meng Yiqiu killed Taichen Shu.


    Li Ruji wished for it to stay that way to prevent implicating Meng Yiqiu. After all, Meng Yiqiu supported his Chu Kingdom.


    "For you to so easily kill Taichen Shu, it appears your strength has improved quite tremendously." Xiahou Zhen smiled. "In this world, you are barely the only match I have! I hope you will not disappoint me today."


    "Improved quite tremendously?" Li Ruji grumbled inwardly.


    Improve?


    At this stage, any improvement was just too difficult.


    "Be on your guard." Xiahou Zhen instantly drew the saber from his waist.


    The saber was unsheathed.


    A bluish-gray saber flash flooded the sky like a hawk soaring through the air breezily before swooping down at Li Ruji.


    "Nice one!" Li Ruji shouted as his swarthy and tiny figure suddenly enlarged. He turned a lot bigger in build as his skin suffused a red glow. The spear he held spun and thrust forward, instantly creating a gigantic vortex that attempted to cull the bluish-gray saber flashes completely.


    "Kill!"


    Xiahou Zhen naturally did not hold back as his speed increased. He unleashed a barrage of attacks at Li Ruji.


    Momentarily, a gigantic bluish-gray hawk manifested in midair. It did things like flapping its wings, swooping downwards, or striking with its talons¡­ All these phenomena were a result of Xiahou Zhen''s unfathomable saber techniques! They were all close-combat attacks, with unpredictable and ever-changing strikes. Furthermore, they were extremely brutal and ruthless.


    Li Ruji''s spear manifested itself into a dark-red flood dragon that thrashed freely in a peerless and oppressive manner, blocking every conceivable direction.


    The impact from their exchange of blows produced terrifying aftershocks that reached a kilometer out! The clouds dissipated as the air itself was distorted.


    A series of loud explosions left the spectators below reeling in fear.


    "As expected of a battle between the first and second on the God roll."


    "Being able to see a battle of this level makes it all worth it."


    A few spectating cultivators were rather excited.


    After all, the victor, no matter who it was, would not attack ordinary cultivators like them.


    ¡­


    Ninety percent of Li Ruji''s techniques were offensive! He constantly attacked! Occasionally, he would produce a few defensive moves. This stemmed from his absolute confidence in his strong body.


    However, the overwhelming saber flashes continued to rain down on him. Xiahou Zhen''s saber flashes seemed to have a magical charm to them as they constantly changed in unfathomable ways. After exchanging about ten blows, a saber flash sliced through Li Ruji''s chest.


    Rip!


    His clothes were ripped apart, revealing a ghastly wound. However, the wound started healing at a discernible pace.


    "Come on!" Li Ruji turned more frenetic.


    His body was constantly receiving injuries but Li Ruji showed no concern.


    "You are doomed the moment I injure you once." Li Ruji looked forward to that moment.


    "Whoosh."


    As the dark-red flood dragon twirled in the sky, Li Ruji, who was once again hit by the bloody saber, managed to thrust his shimmering speartip into Xiahou Zhen''s abdomen.


    This stab changed Li Ruji''s expression. He felt that the flesh he stabbed into was producing an infinite resistance as he tried to plunge his spear deeper.


    "What?" Li Ruji was sent retreating as he stared at Xiahou Zhen.


    The clothes at Xiahou Zhen''s abdomen had been stabbed through, revealing a small wound. But it was very shallow.


    "You have mastered a physical formulation?" Li Ruji stared intently at the distant Xiahou Zhen.


    "I''m no longer inferior to you when it comes to physical resistance. But when it comes to the strength of our moves, you are much weaker than me. Because of this, all you can do is inflict minor injuries on me," Xiahou Zhen scoffed. "Even if I were to stand here and let you attack me, you will not be able to kill me. As for my saber techniques¡­ all of them are capable of robbing you of your life. Every injury inflicted by my blade will drain a large amount of the Connate Quintessential Essence in you. How many more moves can you last?"


    Li Ruji also understood what that meant.


    "Li Ruji! You are doomed today!" Xiahou Zhen sneered. "Unfortunately, your improvement is just too little. It is unable to pose sufficient threat to me."


    "Is that so?" Li Ruji knew his speed was slower. There was no way to escape.


    "It''s still unknown who will live or die!" Li Ruji bellowed.


    If he could not escape, then he had to attack!


    "Boom!" What seemed like dark-red flood dragons flailed in the sky as they unleashed a relentless barrage of attacks. It was Li Ruji''s craziest counterattack.


    As for the bluish-gray hawk, it attacked from every angle to hold it back. Xiahou Zhen''s eyes lit up. "Interesting. Now this makes me feel threatened. Your spear is more than thirty percent faster!"


    ¡­


    "Yiqiu, stop watching. Quickly leave. Hide far away," exhorted Gong Yan''er immediately.


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang was very worried as well.


    "Alright, fine. I''ll go. By the way, Dong Wan, help me take care of Huan''er." With a smile, Qin Yun tapped his feet and left the manor.


    Sou!


    A stream of light flew above Sovereign Capital at an extreme speed. He was much faster than even Xiahou Zhen.


    "Li Ruji won''t last much longer. I can''t just watch him die while standing on the sidelines." Qin Yun quickly rushed towards the Chu Kingdom''s imperial palace, approaching the battleground.


    ¡­


    High in the air.


    Li Ruji and Xiahou Zhen were fighting with all they had. They could not divert their attention to anyone else.


    Perhaps, to them, the other party was the only true opponent in the world for them.


    "I never expected that I, Li Ruji, would die at this Xiahou Zhen''s hands." Li Ruji felt enervated. His body was covered in wounds that were healing but it drained his Quintessential Essence rapidly. His desperate usage of the attack Jade Shattering from the Crimson Jade Formulation severely damaged his body and accelerated the expenditure of his Quintessential Essence.


    Now, he was no longer able to power another desperate attack like Jade Shattering.


    "Whatever."


    "Every dynasty will eventually fall. I, Li Ruji, have been invincible all my life. But there was always going to be a day when I finally die." Li Ruji felt that death was approaching him. All he could do was take his spear in hand and fight with all he had left.


    He had to fight even in death.


    Li Ruji refused to bow even in death.


    "The tiny bit of threat you gave me a while ago delighted me slightly but it was so evanescent." Xiahou Zhen felt lonely. With Li Ruji dead, he would only become lonelier.


    Li Ruji at least posed some threat.


    Not a single person in the rest of the world posed any threat.


    The feeling of invincibility was one of solitude and loneliness.


    "Invincibility¡­" Xiahou Zhen sighed inwardly.


    So what if he was invincible?


    He was unable to shatter the void. Once his five hundred years were up, he would eventually return to dust.


    ¡­


    "Your Majesty. Master''s injuries look terrible. It doesn''t seem like he can last any longer." Standing beside Li Cheng, Old General Xue Chong had an ugly expression. "We have to leave now."


    "My Li family is finished. Is the Chu Kingdom finished too?" Li Cheng looked up in a daze.


    As the battle was happening above the imperial palace, Xue Chong and company could see it clearly. Now, Li Ruji''s body was covered in blood and his combat stance appeared much weaker. He looked like he would be finished almost any second now.


    "It''s over." Xue Chong nodded as his heart winced in pain.


    "Your Majesty, leave quickly," Xue Chong urged and immediately transformed into a beam of light to escape.


    But at that moment, another stream of light soared into the sky from another direction. It headed straight for the battling Li Ruji and Xiahou Zhen.


    "That is?"


    Xue Chong could not help but stop and land on the roof of a building in the imperial palace complex. He looked up and with his strength, he could tell clearly that a young man dressed in simple robes was within the stream of light. There was a sword hanging by his waist and he looked relaxed.


    "Meng Yiqiu?" Xue Chong found it unbelievable.


    Meng Yiqiu was joining the battle between the first and second on the God roll?


    "Hua!"


    Following that, a blinding sword flash lit up. It formed an illuminated arc that enveloped Xiahou Zhen directly.


    "What overconfidence!" Xiahou Zhen sneered and immediately let loose some saber flashes to deal with the incoming attacks.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The raging sword and saber flashes clashed. Despite more than ten collisions, the sword flashes were not destroyed.


    As for Li Ruji, he took this opportunity to make a full retreat and get to safety.


    "Young Master Meng?" When Li Ruji escaped from the flurry of attacks, he looked at Qin Yun in surprise.


    "I''ve read through your Chu Kingdom''s arsenal. In exchange, I promised that I would protect your Chu Kingdom," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Mr Li, just have a rest. Leave Xiahou Zhen to me."


    As for Xiahou Zhen, he was in utter disbelief. During the instant the sword and saber flashes clashed, Xiahou Zhen felt for the first time that there was an enemy that was in no way inferior to him when it came to his realm! His saber techniques did not hold any advantage over this opponent.

 286 Shattering the Void?

    Chapter 286: Shattering the Void?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Young Master Meng, I never expected your strength would improve so much in just a few short years." Li Ruji sent a voice transmission. He looked joyful. "You have already stepped into the Dao and, from that clash just now, I can see that you are in no way inferior to Xiahou Zhen. I, Li Ruji, am very impressed!"


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly.


    The praise was excessive!


    He had already stepped into the Dao decades before descending into this world.


    "Even so, Young Master Meng, you have to be careful. This Xiahou Zhen has mastered a physical formulation. His body is in no way weaker than mine," said Li Ruji through a voice transmission.


    "Mr Li, rest assured." Qin Yun smiled and nodded.


    Li Ruji nodded before flying down to the imperial palace.


    As he flew down, Li Ruji turned back to look at Qin Yun and Xiahou Zhen as they floated opposite each other. He sighed inwardly. "I never expected Meng Yiqiu to develop his strength so fast. In a blink of an eye, he has exceeded me. The world''s strongest two are not me and Xiahou Zhen. It''s Xiahou Zhen and this Meng Yiqiu! However, I wonder who is the stronger of the two?"


    Li Ruji felt a little sour at that moment.


    Even as the so-called God of War, he was only ranked third on the God roll and could only watch as two other peerless experts fought.


    "Whatever. At least I survived." Li Ruji consoled himself.


    ¡­


    In midair.


    Xiahou Zhen''s eyes were hawkish as they stared at Qin Yun under his mop of silver hair.


    "Meng Yiqiu?" Xiahou Zhen said in a deep voice. "I thought I was already invincible in this world and that only Li Ruji can barely qualify to fight me. I never expected that your strength is so much higher than Li Ruji''s."


    From the clash they just had, Xiahou Zhen had already determined his strength.


    He did not gain any advantage during the clash! Furthermore, Qin Yun didn''t even attack with all he had because he was busy attempting to save Li Ruji.


    "Mr Xiahou." Qin Yun stood in midair and gave a relaxed smile. "I''ve long heard that Mr Xiahou ranks first on the God roll. It''s only today that I have a chance of sparring with you."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Xiahou Zhen responded with a hearty laugh. His silver hair flailed in the wind as his fighting spirit bolstered. "I''ve waited too long for this day! Meng Yiqiu, be on your guard!"


    He instantly attacked once again, his saber flashes raining down from every direction!


    "A rare opponent."


    Qin Yun instantly brandished his Frost Sword.


    With a heart as still as an ice mirror, it reflected his surroundings. Qin Yun began using one sword technique after another, many of which were learned in this world! He believed that they were sufficiently powerful but they had never been tested in actual life-and-death combat.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The weapons clashed.


    However, Xiahou Zhen was astounded. "This Meng Yiqiu''s sword arts undergo a myriad of changes. They''re lingering and soft one moment, then extremely oppressive, then astoundingly fast and unpredictable the next."


    "Yes, this attack is overly soft. It looks like complementing Yin with Yang is the correct way to do it. On the other hand, this attack should be done with more verve. Oh. This attack actually has such a major flaw." With Qin Yun''s still mirror heart, his expertise in defensive arts, and him having learned the Lockheaven Sword in this world, he completely controlled the situation. The occasional test of his sword moves was done in controlled environments.


    "I''m actually at this much of a disadvantage?" Xiahou Zhen also noticed this and could not help but panic. "With his sword techniques, he has controlled the surroundings without me realizing! It''s as though I have fallen into his net. How is this possible? He''s such a young fellow. He entered the Heaven roll just a few years ago. How did he make his attacks so much more profound and proficient than mine in such a short span of time?"


    "Oh no!"


    Xiahou Zhen''s expression suddenly changed.


    The Frost Sword in Qin Yun''s hand quickly phased into a sword beam that abruptly thrust forward. It appeared like an ordinary strike.


    "Whoosh."


    Despite being more than a hundred feet apart, space seemed to contract strangely. The sword instantly appeared in front of his chest. Because Xiahou Zhen was alarmed, he failed to block in time.


    "Bam!"


    The sword beam stabbed straight into Xiahou Zhen''s chest. Although it encountered resistance from the empowered flesh, it still managed to penetrate deeply. It even continued on its trajectory from sheer momentum to slice across his chest.


    The wound split open as blood spewed out. The injury was rather serious but his wound healed at a discernible pace.


    "Even I was unable to injure Li Ruji this badly." Xiahou Zhen was horrified.


    "This attack is not bad." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he turned delighted.


    In this world, he had grasped a new Paramount realm, Small World. It was similar in function to the Length Contraction Spell but different in theory! The Length Contraction Spell depended on a talisman amulet but Small World acted to change the Heavenly Dao through Qin Yun''s sword, distorting and changing space itself.


    Using Small World as the foundation, Qin Yun next fused the Infinite Paramount realm and other moves, allowing for a strike that was excessively fast.


    And truly, it paid off.


    "I''m actually injured? No, I can''t let this continue. I have to fight him in close combat. I have to injure him at the cost of being injured. I can withstand being injured by him about ten times but he won''t be able to survive a single strike of mine." Xiahou Zhen immediately made such plans. He felt conflicted though. "I once despised Li Ruji for using such strategies but who knew that there would come a day for me to rely on such a strategy to save my life?"


    "Boom¡ª"


    Xiahou Zhen''s silver hair flared as he began ignoring his wounds in order to exchange injury for injury. He wished to injure Qin Yun just once with no regard for himself!


    Just once was sufficient for him to slay his opponent.


    ¡­


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The bluish-gray surges in the sky were cascading in chaos but sword flashes in the form of illuminated arcs would block the enemy off. At times, they would shimmer in a dominative fashion, encroaching and invading the bluish-gray surge! It held the complete upper hand.


    "What a powerful sword technique. He can actually hold the advantage while fighting with Xiahou Zhen." Li Ruji''s eyes were filled with shock when he landed in the imperial palace.


    Xue Chong also flew to the side.


    "Master," said Xue Chong immediately. "I never expected Meng Yiqiu to be this powerful."


    "Yea. His sword techniques are much more brilliant." Li Ruji nodded. "However, Xiahou Zhen has cultivated an Ancient Black Fiendbody. Xiahou Zhen might very possibly turn the tables if he can engage in close combat!"


    Xue Chong was worried as well.


    Not far to the side.


    Li Cheng looked up and watched. He was at the twelfth Qi Refinement stage, and with the battle happening above the imperial palace, he could barely make out the newcomer''s figure. "That is¡­ Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu? He actually managed to save Patriarch and, from the looks of it, put Xiahou Zhen at a disadvantage?"


    Li Cheng found it somewhat unbelievable.


    "Meng Yiqiu?"


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu! It''s him!"


    "He actually has the capability to repress Xiahou Zhen?"


    There were many experts in the imperial palace. They could tell at a glance that the person who had joined the fray was Meng Yiqiu.


    As for the many ordinary eunuchs and palace maids, they could not identify him. After all, they were about a kilometer away. At best, they could see two blurry figures but had no way to identify them.


    ¡­


    Outside the imperial palace, only a few experts were able to barely recognize Meng Yiqiu.


    "Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu has actually stepped into the Dao! Furthermore, his strength seems to be above that of Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen?"


    "It looks like the world is changing!"


    "In the future, the number one person in the world will be Meng Yiqiu!"


    All the experts that could clearly see the battle were stifled and shocked.


    A battle at this level would influence the entire power balance of the world, affecting billions of lives.


    Of course¡ª


    Sovereign Capital was too big!


    About two kilometers away, anyone below the Connate realm could not identify Meng Yiqiu. However, they could vaguely see that a new expert had joined the battle.


    About five kilometers away, people couldn''t even see their figures! All they could see were dark-red surges clashing with bluish-gray surges before it turned into sword flashes clashing with bluish-gray surges.


    Meng Manor which was about fifteen kilometers away.


    Among Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, Gong Yan''er, and Meng Yuxiang, only Dong Wan had stepped into the Connate realm. And even he could not see things clearly.


    "The person fighting has changed," said Dong Wan. "I believe the God of War has fled and a peerless sword expert has taken his place to block off Xiahou Zhen."


    "Another expert?" Gong Yan''er could not help but comment. "In this world, who would dare partake in a battle between the God of War and Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen?"


    "That''s right. If the God of War can''t withstand Xiahou Zhen, who can?" Liu Qingsha found it unbelievable as well.


    "That is what is happening."


    Dong Wan pointed into the sky. "Look, the sword flashes are in full dominion. The bluish-gray surges are trapped. The sword expert even holds the advantage."


    "That''s actually true." Meng Yuxiang looked up and watched as her face revealed a look of delight. She heaved a sigh of relief. "That''s great. The Chu Kingdom is saved! My brother doesn''t need to flee anymore."


    "Yea. Yiqiu will probably return in a while." Gong Yan''er gave a joyful look too.


    "However, who is that sword expert?" Dong Wan was puzzled.


    "Could it be Peerless Sword Sage, fifth on the God roll?" asked Liu Qingsha. "Peerless Sword Sage might have had a breakthrough in strength, so now he can repress Xiahou Zhen?"


    However, Gong Yan''er said, "Peerless Manor has never meddled in the affairs of the world. It''s unlikely that Peerless Sword Sage would interfere."


    "Perhaps God of War sought Peerless Sword Sage''s help?" Liu Qingsha was filled with speculation.


    However, Dong Wan was watching very carefully.


    As he had the highest strength, he could see the sword flashes even clearer as a Connate realm expert.


    "Why do I feel that¡­ these sword flashes resemble Elder Meng''s sword moves?" Dong Wan could not help but comment.


    "Master''s sword moves?" Liu Qingsha was perplexed.


    "Resemble Yiqiu''s moves?" Gong Yan''er was astonished as well.


    "It''s just a hunch. After all, it''s just too far to see clearly," said Dong Wan immediately.


    ¡­


    Apart from the extremely few people in Sovereign Capital that could identify Meng Yiqiu, there were countless others who did not know who the new sword expert was!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" In midair, Xiahou Zhen was counterattacking maniacally.


    Qin Yun continued testing his numerous techniques against his opponent''s barrage of attacks. However, he would only occasionally test them when he was in complete control.


    "Boom!"


    The sounds from Qin Yun''s sword flashes suddenly took on a deep tone. The world began to tremble. When a sword flash streaked across the sky, the trembling world suddenly revealed a black rift.


    Xiahou Zhen retreated in shock when he saw that scene.


    "This¡­ This¡­" Xiahou Zhen stared at the black rift. "Shattering the void?"


    Qin Yun could not help but stop too. The black rift had an endless suction force. It even seemed to be summoning him in an inexplicable manner. Qin Yun had a faint inkling that on the other end of the black rift was another vast world.


    "Another world." Xiahou Zhen sensed it too. It was an instinctual pining! That was because reaching the other world meant having a chance of becoming a god, an immortal! One could have everlasting youth!


    But in a blink of an eye, the black rift closed.

 287 Price

    Chapter 287: Price


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Xiahou Zhen''s eyes were filled with madness as he stared at the black rift. However, it eventually closed up.


    "What have I been doing?"


    "What have I been doing all these years?"


    Xiahou Zhen muttered to himself, "I spent so long studying the Ancient Black Fiendbody just to kill Li Ruji? Just to ensure that there''s no one in this world that I cannot kill? All this time, if I had only spent it all on my Dao, I might have already reached what Meng Yiqiu has accomplished. I might even be stronger."


    "I actually did it because of my desire to excel over others."


    "For the so-called dominion over this world, I wasted decades cultivating my body. Why am I so foolish?" It was the first time Xiahou Zhen was seeing the void rift with his own eyes. An infinite yearning for it stirred within him.


    It would have been fine if he had not seen it, because then it would have continued to feel like something vague and insubstantial.


    But now, having seen it with his own eyes¡­


    Xiahou Zhen almost went mad. He understood that as long as he could improve one more time, he might be able to shatter the void and ascend. He could become a god, an immortal as the legends spoke of! He could have eternal youth!


    "Xiahou Zhen." Qin Yun spoke.


    Xiahou Zhen''s silver hair was disheveled as he stared at Qin Yun. "Meng Yiqiu, I never expected you to be capable of shattering the void."


    "Not yet. All I did was produce a tiny rift." Qin Yun shook his head.


    "How old are you? You have a lifespan of five hundred years but you have yet to cultivate for fifty years to this date!" Xiahou Zhen gritted his teeth. "You are already capable of producing a rift. If you were to improve a little more, you would be fully capable of shattering the void and ascending! You have this strength that makes you invincible but you can not be bothered to establish a nation. You cannot be bothered to dominate the world. As for me, I actually wasted so much time cultivating an Ancient Black Fiendbody. What was I thinking? Why am I so dumb?"


    "Back then, I was just hoping that luck would be on my side, that by cultivating the Ancient Black Fiendbody, I might spark something for my saber arts. I felt that my saber arts had reached a bottleneck and that it was very difficult to make any significant progress. The cultivation of the Ancient Black Fiendbody felt like an improvement, as it could enhance my strength faster."


    "But I forgot."


    "How can the path of cultivation be a game of luck?"


    "What should be abandoned should be abandoned. Things like gaining dominion over the world or invincibility, all of that can be thrown aside! If I had spent all my efforts just studying my saber arts, I would definitely have been a little stronger than how I am now. If I get even stronger, there is a chance of me shattering the void before my five hundred years are up."


    "At my level¡­ shattering the void is what is most important." Xiahou Zhen felt bitter. "Indecision invariably leads to trouble! Things like country and family clan should all be abandoned."


    Qin Yun watched him.


    Abandon?


    In the secular world, family, fame and profit, love and hate, aspirations¡­ they were chains that shackled one down. How many people were capable of forging forward forever? Who could go on for eternity and never be held back?


    "Cutting out what is not necessary, to know one''s original intentions, to forge on indomitably," whispered Qin Yun. His eyes gradually turned brighter.


    "After coming to this world, I realized that this world has more complete close combat techniques. They made my sword techniques more profound but it also accentuated the crudeness of my Sword Dao from before. The more I fixed and perfected it, the more it felt problematic," thought Qin Yun. "In that case, I should have the fortitude to abandon it! I must abandon my previous Sword Dao! With the thirteen Paramount realms I have already grasped, I can reunite them, forming an even more perfect Sword Dao."


    Having finally succeeded in stepping into the Dao, he still needed to abandon it?


    To step into the Dao again? To form a brand new Sword Dao? Such an act required a lot of determination. This was because it was not easy to form an even more perfect Sword Dao by drawing from the many Paramount realms.


    "I''m still young."


    "Furthermore, I''m a sword immortal through and through. In the future, I still have to create my own Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. If not, I will also only end up with a lifespan of five hundred years," thought Qin Yun. "And to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation myself¡­ is naturally extremely difficult. If that''s the case, the higher my attainment, the better!"


    Qin Yun made a decision at that moment.


    He was abandoning the Sword Dao he had cultivated for decades to start from scratch again!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Xiahou Zhen were making their own respective decisions.


    "Meng Yiqiu." In midair, Xiahou Zhen''s white hair was disheveled as he said in a sullen manner, "I admit defeat."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled. Admit defeat?


    "Although you can fly faster than me, it wouldn''t be that easy to kill me with my Ancient Black Fiendbody," said Xiahou Zhen. "I am confident that I can take everyone in Sovereign Capital with me while I die. You should know that my Dao domain can wipe out all lives in a five-kilometer radius with a thought!"


    Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    Experts that had stepped into the Dao were truly terrifying when it came to massacres.


    Everything within one''s Dao domain could be annihilated! The entire, massive Sovereign Capital would only take a little longer to destroy.


    "You should have noticed that I''m skilled in the Lockheaven Sword," replied Qin Yun. "My sword techniques are capable of sealing the heavens and it can trap you too. I dare say that you would not be able to destroy Sovereign Capital before dying."


    "What about half? Twenty or thirty percent would be quite a breeze, wouldn''t it?" said Xiahou Zhen with a laugh. "Based on what I know, your younger sister has married into the Duan family and you have a son named Meng Huan. They are both in Sovereign Capital, aren''t they?"


    Qin Yun''s pupils constricted.


    "Are you threatening me?" Qin Yun glared at him. "I am absolutely confident that I can rescue my family before sending you to your death."


    "I''m not threatening you. All I wish is that you spare me." Xiahou Zhen looked at Qin Yun. "If you spare me, I will naturally depart and return to the Wei Kingdom! I heard that you have been searching for powerful manuals? You have previously read through the manuals of the Duan family''s White Jade Repository and the Chu Kingdom''s arsenal, haven''t you? Haha¡­ In this world, in terms of the number of manuals, my Red Lotus Fiend Sect has the most. Have you heard of the Thirty-six Secret Teachings?"


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "All the manuals collected by my Red Lotus Fiend Sect will be up for your perusal. You can also take all the original copies of the Thirty-six Secret Teachings." Xiahou Zhen looked at Qin Yun. "I only wish that you will let me go. Give me this chance."


    "Manuals?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    The Red Lotus Fiend Sect was founded by Xiahou Zhen and was presently the best sect in the world. Most of its manuals were snatched from others!


    Powerful manuals formed the basis of a sect''s heritage foundation. With many powerful manuals, the sect''s disciples could choose the manuals most suited to them. As a result, the sect could constantly produce experts.


    "Alright, I will spare you." Qin Yun nodded. With his strength, he could kill Xiahou Zhen at any time!


    "I will not attack anyone for thirty years. You are also not to attack me, or the Wei Kingdom''s Xiahou clan." Xiahou Zhen looked at Qin Yun.


    "As long as the Wei Kingdom doesn''t provoke me." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Haha, good."


    Xiahou Zhen revealed a look of delight. "Then, thirty years from now, before the end of my life, I wish to arrange another battle with you!"


    "Thirty years?" Qin Yun nodded. He would still be in this world so he naturally could answer the challenge.


    The main purpose of his coming to this world was for cultivation!


    All the Red Lotus Fiend Sect''s manuals could be read by him! The Thirty-six Secret Teachings could be brought back. He had to make plans for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect and the Meng family.


    And regarding Xiahou Zhen''s scheduled battle¡­


    Qin Yun naturally welcomed having such a powerful opponent.


    "Alright, then I''ll be waiting for you at the Red Lotus Fiend Sect." Xiahou Zhen cupped his fists slightly before transforming into a stream of light that flew north.


    Qin Yun watched from afar and did not pursue him.


    If he could easily kill Xiahou Zhen, he might have taken action then. He could also forcibly rob the manuals from the Red Lotus Fiend Sect. Unfortunately, with Xiahou Zhen''s actual strength, slaying him would probably lead to countless deaths and injuries in Sovereign Capital. Qin Yun was not the sort that would implicate countless commoners.


    "That''s good too. The world remains peaceful and I can continue cultivating in peace." Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light as he flew toward Meng Manor.


    He was only a transient visitor in this world.


    Doing his best searching for manuals and taking care of people he cared about, while also trying to ensure that the world remained peaceful, that was enough to satisfy Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    "That¡­ That was¡­" Li Ruji and Xue Chong widened their eyes. They looked at the black rift that Qin Yun had cleaved open high in the sky.


    "Shattering the void?"


    Li Ruji and Xue Chong were only a kilometer away from the battleground. They felt every cell in their body tremble. It was a yearning! It was as though there was something on the opposite side of the void that called to them.


    "I never expected Meng Yiqiu to be capable of this." Li Ruji never had the immense yearning to shatter the void that he now felt.


    "Shattering the void? Although it''s only a rift, how old is he? He''s not even fifty," said Xue Chong intolerably. "Given five hundred years, Meng Yiqiu is definitely capable of shattering the void and ascending."


    Envy and jealousy.


    All sorts of emotions grew in his heart.


    "Xiahou Zhen has fled. Meng Yiqiu actually didn''t pursue him?" Xue Chong could not help but comment.


    "He''s fled." Li Ruji nodded but felt very calm. "Xiahou Zhen has an Ancient Black Fiendbody. Killing him wouldn''t be easy. He probably negotiated with Meng Yiqiu and paid a particular price. Regardless, Meng Yiqiu took action to protect our Chu Kingdom. My Li family should be grateful to him."


    Xue Chong nodded slightly.


    Now, the number one person in the world was Meng Yiqiu!


    If Meng Yiqiu wanted peace in the world, there would be peace in the world! If he wanted chaos in the world, there would be chaos in the world!


    ¡­


    On a resident''s roof not far from the imperial palace, a Connate expert from Peerless Manor had been looking up.


    "Shattering the void? Meng Yiqiu is actually capable of that? This¡­ This¡­"


    "Invincible. This is what invincible means."


    The Connate expert was filled with excitement.


    He found it fascinating that he could see the void slice open in his lifetime.


    "Xiahou Zhen fled? Meng Yiqiu actually did not pursue him either. Judging by the battle just now, Meng Yiqiu''s speed should be faster than Xiahou Zhen''s. From the looks of it, they made an agreement." The Connate expert quickly gave that analysis. "Everything that happened here must be immediately reported! The God roll¡­ It''s been so many years but the God roll has finally changed."


    "Furthermore, this change is rather tremendous. Even the person first on the God roll has changed."

 288 After the Battle

    Chapter 288: After the Battle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sovereign Capital had many hidden powerful figures. And the battle between the first and second on the God roll was a spectacular battle, unequaled even by other warriors at that level. It would have been a lifelong regret if one missed it. It made many experts approach the battle to watch in close proximity.


    However, no one expected the battle to be filled with so many twists and turns!


    First, God of War Li Ruji was completely repressed. He was severely injured and on the brink of death! Then, Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu suddenly took action and saved him by fighting Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen! And when Meng Yiqiu fought Xiahou Zhen¡­ it made all the eyeballs of the spectators nearly pop out. This was because Xiahou Zhen was completely disadvantaged!


    And the slicing open of the black rift in the void¡­sent reverberations through all the experts that saw it clearly.


    "Shattering the void?"


    "The void was cleaved apart."


    "I could sense another massive world on the other side of the void rift."


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    Regardless if their identities were a hegemon, an ascetic, or an unrestrained hero, all of them were stunned when they saw the void rift with their own eyes.


    This was the most shocking event in their lives.


    ¡­


    However, Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light and flew directly to Meng Manor.


    In Meng Manor, there was Gong Yan''er who was carrying Meng Huang, we well as Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and Meng Yuxiang. They had their heads lifted up to watch the battle but when the battle ended, there was no major commotion left for them to see since they were fifteen kilometers away.


    "Sou!"


    A stream of light rapidly approached.


    "Look!" Liu Qingsha said immediately.


    "Elder?" Dong Wan was astonished. He clearly saw at a glance that the incomer was Qin Yun. "Why would Elder fly in from that direction?"


    "Brother."


    "Yiqiu."


    Meng Yuxiang and Gong Yan''er were delighted too.


    "Dad, take me flying. I want to fly too!" Meng Huan did not know what the battle from before signified. Instead, he was very excited by the idea of flying.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun landed inside the manor.


    "Huan''er." Qin Yun smiled as he lifted up Meng Huan who had run towards him.


    "Awesome," said Gong Yan''er with a smile. "Thankfully, a peerless sword expert appeared. Not only did that person save the God of War, they even defeated Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen. Yiqiu, you don''t have to worry anymore."


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang asked as well. "Who was that sword expert? With your strength, you should have seen the person clearly, right?"


    "We were guessing it was Peerless Sword Sage," quipped Liu Qingsha.


    When Qin Yun, who was carrying Meng Huan, heard this, he could not help but give a cough. "That person was me."


    Many people had seen the battle so there was no reason to conceal his strength any further.


    The surrounding Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, Liu Qingsha, and Dong Wan fell silent. They looked at Qin Yun in astonishment, momentarily at a loss for words.


    "My brother?" Meng Yuxiang still felt a little lost.


    "I did say that it felt like it resembled Elder''s sword moves." Dong Wan also coughed.


    "My master defeated Xiahou Zhen?" Liu Qingsha perspired nervously.


    Gong Yan''er was stunned for a long while before she said, "Yiqiu, is what you said real?"


    "That''s right. Brother, is it real?" Meng Yuxiang pressed.


    "Is there a need to falsely brag? There were many people watching the battle at the imperial palace." Qin Yun shook his head and laughed. "And it won''t take long for Peerless Manor to produce a new God roll."


    The garden soon boiled with excitement.


    There was a huge commotion as Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, Dong Wan, and Liu Qingsha constantly conversed.


    First on the God roll!


    "Huan''er, did you hear that? Your dad is first in the world." Gong Yan''er took Meng Huan from Qin Yun''s arms. She was excessively excited.


    "By the way, Brother, we didn''t know that you had stepped into the Dao." Meng Yuxiang looked at Qin Yun.


    "None of us from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect knew of it either," said Dong Wan as well. Now that he had entered the Connate realm, he was considered a member of the upper echelons of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Yet, he had never heard the news that his Grand Elder had stepped into the Dao.


    Qin Yun relaxed his brows and said casually, "Oh, I stepped into the Dao not long ago. I just felt that there was no reason to announce it right away."


    Back when he descended into this world, he had already had his Dao for decades!


    ******


    Night. Inside Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s main hall.


    Thick candles, as thick as a child''s arm, were burning. They lit up the entire hall like it was daytime. There were dozens of people inside the hall, including the sect master, Elders, personal disciples as well as a few head stewards.


    "Everyone."


    Sitting in the sect master seat, the slightly plump middle-aged man Zuo Tang was in high spirits. His eyes shimmered like lightning as his voice sounded like a bell. "I have good news to share with everyone today."


    All these years, Zuo Tang''s voice had never been this loud! Or clear!


    "Good news?"


    "What is it?"


    "What happened?"


    The upper echelons and elites of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect were puzzled.


    "I just received a letter from Sovereign Capital today and I immediately summoned all of you after reading it." Zuo Tang''s face was flushed red with excitement. It could even be said that he was beaming. "Just today, Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen headed to Sovereign Capital to kill God of War Li Ruji! During this battle, Li Ruji suffered an abject defeat. Just as he was about to lose his life, our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder Meng took action and saved Li Ruji. He fought Xiahou Zhen and, in that battle, Xiahou Zhen admitted defeat and begged for mercy. Only then was he spared of his life."


    All the Elders, personal disciples, and head stewards were astounded.


    Was that really true?


    "Elder Meng is already an existence that has stepped into the Dao! His strength is superior to Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen''s and God of War Li Ruji''s!" said Zuo Tang excitedly. "This news was personally verified by Dong Wan through Elder Meng before it was sent to us. In a few days, Peerless Manor will produce a new God roll. Our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Elder Meng will be ranked first on the God roll!"


    "Our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder will be ranked first on the God roll?"


    The Elders, personal disciples, and head stewards beneath slowly reacted. Then, all of them burst into excitement as if the news hit them harder than the strongest liquors.


    Everyone felt like they were intoxicated.


    Heavens.


    It was unbelievable.


    However, the news had been confirmed by Meng Yiqiu through Dong Wan''s inquiry. There was no mistake about it! Meng Yiqiu was previously ranked on the Heaven roll. There was no reason for him to make up such a huge lie.


    "Junior Brother Yiqiu was truly talented back then." Zuo Tang was in high spirits but he also felt mixed emotions. "Master had placed all hopes of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s rise on him. Later on, he was poisoned, disappointing and hurting Master''s heart. Now from the looks of it, the poison that tormented him for a year actually rejuvenated Junior Brother Yiqiu. He has truly skyrocketed."


    "Yes, he has really skyrocketed."


    "I believe our Zhou Mountain Sword Sect will become the best sect in the world someday."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    "This is absolutely¡­ absolutely¡­"


    "I want to head to Sovereign Capital. I want to meet Elder Meng."


    The entire hall was in chaos.


    Clearly, the news left an excessive impact on them. All the upper echelons of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect were overcome by joy! They could foresee that in the coming days the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect would soar to the top.


    It was even possible that if Elder Meng so wished, he could use the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples as the core, begin to recruit people, and rapidly conquer the world! Some even estimated that it would not take more than ten years for him to unify the world under the rule of a massive empire! Even if he did not wish to conquer the world¡­ it was not difficult for the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect to become the world''s number one sect.


    ¡­


    As Qin Yun did not mention the cleaving open of the void, Dong Wan''s report did not mention it.


    It was only days later that the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect learned that in the battle that would be talked about for thousands of years, their Grand Elder had sliced open the void! To be honest, his slicing of the void shocked them more than his defeating Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen.


    "Master! Master!"


    In Sovereign Capital, three days after the battle.


    Liu Qingsha ran over and politely handed a book over. "Master, this is the latest God roll that Peerless Manor sent over."


    "God roll?" Qin Yun reached out his hand to receive it.


    Peerless Manor directly sold the Heaven, Earth and Man rolls.


    However, it was different with the God roll.


    The God roll only had a handful of people. Furthermore, it didn''t change for decades at a time! With the people on the God roll enjoying high statuses, Peerless Manor did not dare offend them. Therefore, the God roll was not sold to the common populace! Instead, after it was editorialized by Peerless Manor, it would be given to the top factions in the world for free! Ordinary large family clans and sects would not even receive it.


    For example, the Duan family had no right to receive the God roll before Qin Yun''s rise to power.


    Of course, Peerless Manor had given the Duan family one this time.


    "God roll." It was a thin book. Qin Yun flipped it open and simply scanned it.


    First on the God roll: Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s Grand Elder ''Frost Sword'' Meng Yiqiu. Meng Yiqiu was once poisoned by lethal poison . After being tormented by the poison for a year, he experienced a complete rejuvenation and surpassed his former self. He constantly created new miracles. In the battle of Sovereign Capital, he saved God of War Li Ruji and even directly defeated Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen! He also managed to slice through the void with one strike. He is already invincible in this world. Even in the annals of history, he is ranked as one of the top few!


    It was very high praise.


    Although Li Ruji and Xiahou Zhen were powerful, in the long annals of history, they would only be considered average compared to the legendary elites of old. The most illustrious ones were even capable of shattering the void and ascending.


    Peerless Manor clearly counted Meng Yiqiu as one of the few most illustrious figures that had managed to shatter the void and ascend.


    In fact¡­ most people agreed with it when they read the God roll!


    This was because ninety-nine percent of people believed that Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu, who had sliced open the void despite cultivating for less than five decades, was destined to shatter the void and ascend!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was not concerned with any of this. Five days after the battle, he headed to the Red Lotus Fiend Sect in the Wei Kingdom. He read through all the manuals in the Red Lotus Fiend Sect and following that, took away the original copy of the core Thirty-six Secret Teachings! Although the Red Lotus Fiend Sect did have more than one copy of it, it had lost more than half its heritage.


    After all, only those who could cultivate the teachings to the Paramount realm could reproduce a copy, and even then only after seeking out precious materials and spending copious amounts of time.


    The Yan Kingdom was panicking in horror. Half a month after the battle, it took the initiative to send Qin Yun treasures. After knowing that Qin Yun liked manuals, they invited him to read through the Yan Kingdom''s arsenal. He was free to choose and take away any manuals he wanted.


    Qin Yun visited the arsenal and found that, indeed, the Yan Kingdom was the weakest of the three kingdoms. After reading through the manuals, he did not take any of the manuals back with him. The Yan Kingdom reacted with panic and took the initiative to choose fifteen manuals and sent them to Sovereign Capital''s Meng Manor.


    Qin Yun was somewhat at a loss as to whether he should laugh or cry regarding this matter.


    He did not want them but they ended up offering them to him? If he didn''t take any, the Yan Kingdom would feel uneasy.


    Qin Yun chose six original copies and returned the other nine.


    The Chu Kingdom''s heritage was stronger than the Wei Kingdom''s. After learning that the Wei and Yan Kingdom had given large amounts of treasures and original manuals to Qin Yun, they also immediately sent treasures and ten original copies! Of course, these ten precious original copies were ones that the Chu Kingdom''s arsenal had multiple copies of.


    The Yan Kingdom''s six original copies, the Chu Kingdom''s ten original copies, and the Red Lotus Fiend Sect''s Thirty-six Secret Teachings original copy, as well as more than half the treasures were sent to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect by Qin Yun.


    Although he had to take his family into consideration with all the treasures, there was just too much!


    He needed to leave a little behind.


    With many precious manuals and a strong backer, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect naturally began to prosper rapidly. Many large family clans in the world began sending their elites to enter the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    ¡­


    That battle shocked the world.


    However, as the years went on, the world gradually returned to its original peaceful state.

 289 Meng Huan

    Chapter 289: Meng Huan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a blink of an eye, fifteen years had passed since that legendary battle.


    In the Meng Manor compound.


    "Mom, I''m going out. I''ll be eating dinner outside," said Meng Huan.


    "Be careful while you are out." Gong Yan''er smiled at her son.


    Meng Huan was now twenty-one. His mother was the Fairy Crabapple, Gong Yan''er. With his father also having outstanding looks, Meng Huan was naturally quite a handsome young lad! And since he cultivated in the Frost Sword Chart, he had a cool aura that made him a little more aloof and otherworldly.


    "I heard that Huan''er has acquainted himself with two female soulmates." Gong Yan''er smiled happily. "From the looks of it, Yiqiu''s decision for Huan''er to travel more and experience life outside had its reasons."


    Back then, Qin Yun made Meng Huan adventure outside on his own. Although Meng Huan was only left to fend for himself in Sovereign Capital, Gong Yan''er was still somewhat worried.


    Sovereign Capital was a huge city with more than ten million people. There were all sorts of people in it, so naturally it presented all sorts of dangers.


    How perilous was it for Meng Huan to go adventuring in the large city alone?


    However, as it was a decision made by Meng Yiqiu and experts were secretly sent to protect him, Gong Yan''er did not stop him from leaving.


    "You are going out again?"


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged in the garden by the side of the lake. He had left a Quintessential Essence imprint on his son so he naturally knew where his son was at all times.


    "Huan''er has enjoyed sword arts from a young age, but he has no one his own age here in this household.There are some maidservants, but they are subordinates," thought Qin Yun. "Huan''er has been very introverted from a young age. He doesn''t even speak much. All he does is practice his sword from morning to night in silence. Some days, he doesn''t even say more than ten sentences. I was afraid Huan''er''s personality might end up warped so I forced him to go out! Having gone out, he has encountered all sorts of riffraff in Sovereign Capital. He also suffered many times. It has changed him quite substantially. I have even heard that he has two female soulmates."


    Qin Yun smiled, as he was rather pleased with his son''s transformation.


    After all, he had brought up the child from when he was an infant. Qin Yun had very deep feelings for Meng Huan.


    ¡­


    Meng Huan was dressed plainly and his hair was casually tied up in a messy manner. As he had very outstanding looks and bearing, he would draw attention wherever he went if he only placed a little emphasis on how he dressed himself.


    "Cloud Gathering Restaurant."


    Meng Huan came to a rather famous restaurant in Sovereign Capital. He looked up at its signboard and smiled before quickly entering.


    "Sir, please come on in."


    "Sir, how many people do you have in your party?"


    The waiting staff in Cloud Gathering Restaurant were very warm and welcoming. Meng Huan very familiarly entered a room on the third floor. There were two young women inside the room.


    "Brother Huan, Sister Zhong and I have been waiting for you for so long," said a green-dressed woman. Her voice was soft and very pleasant to the ears.


    "Sis Yun." Meng Huan''s eyes lit up when he saw the green-dressed woman. He could not help but beam. In fact, in the recent half year, the green-dressed woman, Tantai Yun seldom appeared. She had slowly given him the cold shoulder, making Meng Huan feel somewhat disenchanted.


    "Xiao Huan, you are the latest. You need to drink three cups of alcohol as punishment!" A yellow-dressed woman said with a smile as she addressed Meng Huan endearingly. She had fair skin that was crystalline like white jade. Every action of hers had an air of nobility to it.


    "Alright, I deserve the punishment." Meng Huan happily sat down and drank three cups of alcohol magnanimously. After finishing the drinks, he said immediately, "Sister Zhong, Sis Yun, have you found any new clues regarding the murder at Coiling Tea Alley?"


    The green-dressed woman shook her head gently.


    Instead, the yellow-dressed woman smiled and said, "I did find something¡­"


    The trio began discussing.


    Meng Huan had led a charmed life from a young age, one where he was completely protected. He had never seen the darkness of humanity. At the age of eighteen, Qin Yun forced him to adventure in Sovereign Capital. There, he encountered many vile instances that happened in the bustling city every day that angered him! He began acting chivalrously, helping the weak while ridding the city of evil! He was only at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm and had yet to grasp sword intent. However, his sword and movement techniques were taught by Qin Yun personally. He had robust foundations and had the capability to defeat evil!


    When Qin Yun learned of the matter, he was happy for his son.


    During his crusade¡­ Meng Huan acquainted himself with a young heroine, Tantai Yun, who was two years younger than he was. The two of them frequently acted together and their relationship deepened. She was the first woman to enter Meng Huan''s heart. A year later, Meng Huan and Tantai Yun befriended Zhong Lin who was one year older than Meng Huan. As the trio shared similar personality traits, they did heroic deeds together.


    Zhong Lin was the eldest, Meng Huan was the second eldest, and Tantai Yun was the youngest.


    However, as time went on, the relationship between the trio turned complicated. Meng Huan and Tantai Yun mutually liked each other but Meng Huan was too thin-skinned. And as a girl, Tantai Yun did not take the initiative. Caught up in the intimate feelings they had for each other early on, they would meet nearly daily. But in the recent half year, Tantai Yun seldom appeared, giving Meng Huan the cold shoulder.


    And Zhong Lin watched all of this and knew exactly what was happening. All she did was secretly like Meng Huan!


    After the trio had their meal.


    "Let''s go. We should take a look at Coiling Tea Alley. We can investigate in detail at night," said Meng Huan with a smile. Zhong Lin and Tantai Yun stood up as well. The trio left after paying.


    A group of people walked over across the corridor along the third floor of Cloud Gathering Restaurant. It was quite a squeeze.


    "Sis Yun?" There was an exclamation.


    Meng Huan, Zhong Lin, and Tantai Yun saw a colorful-robed youth with cold-looking eyes standing at the front of the group of people. He was staring intently at Tantai Yun before he swept his eyes to Meng Huan and Zhong Lin. He also gave Zhong Lin and extended look due to her beauty.


    "Brother Qian." Tantai Yun''s expression changed slightly as she scuttled over. At the same time, she politely greeted a black-robed middle-aged man standing beside the colorful-robed youth. "Greetings, Uncle."


    "Hmph." The black-robed middle-aged man''s expression was gloomy.


    "Tantai Yun, what''s your relationship with this pretty boy?" The colorful-robed youth grabbed Tantai Yun''s arm and stared at Meng Huan.


    Meng Huan''s expression changed.


    "Brother Qian. He''s just a friend, an ordinary friend," answered Tantai Yun immediately.


    "Hmph, do you think I''m blind? That I didn''t see how close the two of you were?" bellowed the youth.


    From the side, the black-robed man looked coldly at Tantai Yun. "Hmph, since you are aware that you are betrothed to my Ouyang family, you must know how to behave as a virtuous woman! But here you are, making hanky-panky with some wild man. It is a smack in my Ouyang family''s face!"


    Tantai Yun was distraught. "No, that''s not the case. I didn''t do any such thing."


    "The Tantai family¡­ is of lowly background. It is unable to rise and will never be able to rise!" said the black-robed man coldly.


    "Miss Tantai."


    Meng Huan spoke out with a pale expression.


    Tantai Yun looked over and said, "Zhou Huan, help me explain to them that there''s nothing between us."


    Meng Huan felt like his heart was being ripped apart.


    She was the first true friend he made after leaving the household.


    "I''m Zhou Huan. Greetings, young heroine."


    "I''m Tantai Yun. Greetings, young hero."


    He would never forget the scene of their first meeting. The both of them had acted chivalrously and helped the weak together. Meng Huan even dreamed of marrying Tantai Yun.


    But¡­


    "Everyone," said Meng Huan as he cupped his fists at the black-robed man and company. "It is true that there is nothing between Miss Tantai and me."


    With that said, Meng Huan turned to leave.


    With his back facing the group, Meng Huan could not control his tears. In the past, all he had in the world were his parents and sword arts. Tantai Yun was the first woman to ever enter his heart. Now, he felt like his heart was being diced by a knife. His mind was in chaos.


    "Pfft." Meng Huan coughed as he covered his mouth. There were signs of blood in his palm.


    "Xiao Huan." Zhong Lin, who had immediately followed by his side, had a drastic change of expression when she saw that.


    In the distance, Tantai Yun, who was accompanying the colorful-robed youth, was constantly explaining, "Brother Qian, you misunderstand. There really is nothing between us. I''m just¡­"


    "Hold it." The black-robed man said coldly instead. "The both of you are acting like you''re being separated by life and death. Do you think that my Ouyang family is blind? Men, capture the both of them! Capture the male and feed him to the dogs! As for the female, bring her back and imprison her first."


    The middle-aged man had noticed Zhong Lin''s looks. Instantly, he felt a yearning for her. Such a beauty was obviously not to be killed recklessly. She had to be enjoyed.


    "Yes." Two figures immediately appeared from behind.


    "Uncle." Tantai Yun pleaded anxiously.


    "Shut up." The black-robed man gave her a cold glance.


    Meng Huan turned around and whispered, "Sister Zhong, leave first." With that said, he instantly drew his sword.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Sword flashes shimmered.


    The two figures that had charged forward were blocked and sent retreating. Although Meng Huan was only at the twelfth stage of Qi Refinement, he was still capable of taking about ten attacks from Man roll experts.


    "Interesting. Attack!" The black-robed man sneered, and immediately a few figures behind him charged forward.


    "Brother Ouyang, this kid seems rather strong. He might have some notable background," a wealthy elder quipped to the side.


    "He''s completely unknown. What sort of background can he have?" scoffed the black-robed man.


    The wealthy elder immediately stopped speaking.


    The black-robed man was a powerful figure in Sovereign Capital so he had the credentials to make such a judgment.


    Meng Huan''s lifeblood was in turmoil while fending off the attacks of six experts. He could not help but spew another mouthful of blood as he barely endured. A distance away, Zhong Lin was anxious but she did not dare interfere. This was because when the three of them did heroic deeds, Meng Huan was the strongest!


    "I''m from the Peifang''s Zhong family. Zhong Wanhai is my father," said Zhong Lin anxiously.


    "Zhong Wanhai? He might command some respect if you were mentioning him to someone lowly, but in front of me, he''s nothing more than a fart!" The black-robed man scoffed.


    Suddenly¡ª


    Sou! Sou!


    Two streams of light flew in through the window.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­


    The six figures that were attacking Meng Huan were instantly sent flying backward.


    The two streams of light stopped beside Meng Huan. They were two gray-robed men. One of them held a saber and the other held a sword. When they saw the pale Meng Huan''s mouth covered in blood, they were alarmed.


    "Young Lord." Both of them were somewhat flustered.


    Vomiting blood could imply either light or heavy injuries.


    "Young Lord?"


    The black-robed man, the colorful-robed youth, the wealthy elder, as well as Tantai Yun and Zhong Lin, were astonished.


    "Aren''t the two of them the Saber and Sword Duo on the Earth roll?" The wealthy elder''s expression changed. An expert on the Earth roll could hold the role of Grand Elder in a top sect. "Two Earth roll experts are actually addressing him as young lord? Even His Highness the Crown Prince would not have two Earth roll experts as guards."


    "It''s the Saber and Sword Duo." The black-robed man''s expression changed as he shouted immediately, "I''m Ouyang Quan."


    "Shut up!"


    The two gray-robed men were flustered. Vomiting blood meant internal injuries. Furthermore, Meng Huan''s expression was pale and he looked to be in a dire state. The two of them knew how much importance their old lord placed on their young lord.


    One of the gray-robed men directly took out a wooden token. He injected Quintessential Essence into it, causing it to tremble.


    "I have already informed the old lord," said the gray-robed saber user.


    ¡­


    In the Meng family compound.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass in the garden beside the lake. He was meditating on his sword arts.

 290 No one in this world can save you!

    Chapter 290: No one in this world can save you!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The lakeside was rather cold and damp. The cool air pervaded the area, but Qin Yun was focused on his Sword Dao.


    During that battle fifteen years ago, Xiahou Zhen felt deep regret after he saw Qin Yun slice open the void. He regretted the time he wasted cultivating his body and was determined to abandon everything in order to place all his efforts on his Saber Dao. Qin Yun was inspired too. He made the firm decision to start from the beginning! He wanted to form a new Sword Dao with his thirteen Paramount realms as the foundation.


    It was very difficult.


    Qin Yun had spent the past fifteen years gradually forming a nascent Sword Dao. Furthermore, it was turning increasingly clear in his heart.


    Every day, he might have appeared to be teaching his son swordplay or meditating by the lake but in fact, he was in constant preparation! He was waiting for the instant everything automatically culminated.


    "Almost there."


    "Almost there."


    Qin Yun could sense that his second stepping into the Dao was approaching.


    "Oh? Something happened with the Saber and Sword Duo?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "Both of them are Earth roll experts. Yet they are requesting help? None of the three kingdoms are willing to offend me. Now, which person on the Heaven or God roll is foolish enough to threaten my son?"


    Qin Yun placed great importance on anything that involved his son.


    Sou!


    In an instant, a stream of light flashed through the night sky. He headed straight for Cloud Gathering Restaurant.


    He traversed kilometers in an instant. When the Cloud Gathering Restaurant entered Qin Yun''s Dao domain, he immediately saw everything clearly.


    "From the looks of it, there are no Heaven or God roll experts." Qin Yun instantly determined this, however he still frowned. "Why did Huan''er vomit blood? From the way his eyes look, something isn''t right. He looks to have fallen into a trance. His two female soulmates¡­ Why is the one named Tantai Yun standing beside another youth?"


    Qin Yun''s Dao domain probed the situation and immediately gave him enough to guess.


    "Did he encounter a setback in love?"


    ¡­


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun flew at an astonishing speed. Within seconds, he arrived at Cloud Gathering Restaurant.


    "What happened?"


    "There was a fight."


    "Who would dare cause trouble in Cloud Gathering Restaurant?"


    Cloud Gathering Restaurant was in turmoil at that moment. As Meng Huan and the six experts fought before the Saber and Sword Duo arrived, it caused Cloud Gathering Restaurant''s windows and corridor to be in shambles. Most of the damaged items had fallen into the streets outside.


    "I''m trying to enjoy my alcohol. Who''s causing trouble!?" A half-drunk man dressed in flowery robes had flushed red cheeks. He stumbled up to to the third floor of Cloud Gathering Restaurant where the fight had happened. He was followed by a bunch of lackeys as he continued grumbling and cursing. By the side, a manager from Cloud Gathering Restaurant immediately apologized, "Third Lord, Third Lord, it''s just something trivial."


    "It''s none of your business. I was just having a good time with a beauty when this noisy disturbance happened below." The flowery-dressed man went on a tirade. His subordinates immediately held back the manager.


    The manager was aggrieved. "Woe is me. There was fighting on the third floor, and now this Third Lord is making a scene. I wonder what could go wrong next."


    In business, one strove to reduce major issues into minor ones.


    Among the guests that Cloud Gathering Restaurant was entertaining today, the person that enjoyed the highest status was this flowery-dressed man! Although Cloud Gathering Restaurant had sufficiently strong backing, they did not dare provoke him. It could be said that he was practically free to do as he pleased in Sovereign Capital. No matter who it was, they would fear him.


    "Oh?" The man''s eyes suddenly widened despite his drunken stupor, for he saw Qin Yun reach the third floor before approaching the scene.


    "Did I see wrong?" The flowery-dressed man widened his eyes as he instantly snapped out of his stupor.


    "Hey."


    The man rushed forward, completely aware now. He even gave a sycophantic smile, "Brother-in-law. Why are you here?"


    "Shut your mouth." Qin Yun sharply but softly remarked with a frown.


    "Yes, yes." The man immediately shut up as he obediently followed at Qin Yun''s side. He looked like an obedient dog but with a very smug grin.


    As for the man''s lackeys, they were astounded.


    Back when Gong Yan''er met Qin Yun with their child in tow, she wished that Qin Yun would take her family out of Centaurea Valley. However, many members of the Gong family coveted Centaurea Valley''s wealth. Only Gong Yan''er''s father, younger brother, and a few other family members chose to stay in Sovereign Capital.


    The flowery dressed man was Gong Yan''er''s younger brother, Gong Peng. He was addressed as Third Lord Gong in Sovereign Capital.


    His brother-in-law was Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu, ranked first on the God roll. He naturally could do as he pleased.


    "He addressed him as brother-in-law?"


    "Master''s brother-in-law? Isn''t that¡­"


    All the lackeys held their breaths in nervousness. They followed obediently from behind. Even the Cloud Gathering Restaurant''s manager was stuttering from the shock. "A hole through the heavens!" He immediately rushed down the stairs to inform his boss.


    Everyone who had powerful backing in Sovereign Capital knew that the one entity they could not offend in the entire city was actually not the imperial palace! Instead, it was the area beside Emerald Jade Lake. That place was the residence of the number one figure on the God roll, Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu, who struck fear in the three kingdoms and all factions! Powerful and wealthy families prohibited their subordinates from approaching Emerald Jade Lake, afraid that they would offend him!


    ¡­


    The black-robed middle-aged man, Ouyang Quan, and his son were horrified. Even the wealthy elder beside them was extremely vexed. "Why I was so foolish to invite Ouyang Quan here? Now, that the Saber and Sword Duo have given the order, none of us can leave."


    He was annoyed.


    The Ouyang father-and-son duo was more horrified and remorseful.


    "Why did I come when Old Man Tong invited me here? If I didn''t come here, I wouldn''t have gotten into this big trouble. And that Tantai Yun is a trouble-making vixen!" Ouyang Quan''s heart was palpitating. "What background does that man have to have two experts on the Earth roll protecting him and addressing him politely as young lord? I hope he will spare my Ouyang family on account of my daughter."


    "Xiao Huan, are you better?" Zhong Lin was distraught with worry.


    "Sister Zhong, I''m fine." Meng Huan rubbed off the blood from the corner of his lips. However, he looked pale and in terrible shape, as though he was still in a trance.


    Zhong Lin looked at the Saber and Sword Duo who were standing to the side. The Heaven, Earth, and Man rolls were sold publicly. To adventure in the world, Zhong Lin had naturally read through all three of them. She had retained detailed information and was naturally able to recognize the two of them. "Saber and Sword Duo. They are Earth roll experts! What background does Xiao Huan have to have Earth roll experts as guards?"


    And on the other side.


    Tantai Yun, who was standing by the colorful robed man''s side, fell silent. She was no longer trying to explain herself. Instead, she was watching everything in front of her in a daze.


    "Young Lord? Isn''t that the Saber and Sword Duo? Why did they address Brother Huan young lord?" Tantai Yun was confused.


    At that moment¡ª


    A man in ordinary robes walked over from behind. A flowery-dressed man followed him obediently.


    "Huan''er." Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan.


    "Master."


    The Saber and Sword Duo bowed respectfully.


    When Meng Huan saw Qin Yun, he became more reserved. "Dad."


    Not that far away, the Ouyang father-and-son duo had pale, distraught faces. Their Ouyang family was powerful so they naturally recognized the simply-dressed man. And with Third Lord Gong standing obediently behind him, it was enough to prove who he was.


    "Let me take a look." Qin Yun extended his hand to grab his son''s wrist. A wisp of Quintessential Essence seeped in as Qin Yun began probing his body.


    "This will be troublesome."


    Qin Yun had an excellent understanding of a body''s control. "This is not an injury inflicted by combat. Instead, it''s an internal injury caused by a broken heart."


    A broken heart could not be mended with medicine.


    An injury from a broken heart had a wide range of repercussions. A minor one was a simple setback. After a few days of sadness, one would gradually forget the matter. If it was major, it was possible to even die from love. As for his son, he was more introverted! Tantai Yun was apparently his son''s first love interest.


    "This is quite troublesome," thought Qin Yun.


    "Your name is Zhong Lin, am I right?" Qin Yun smiled at Zhong Lin who was standing to the side.


    "Yes. Greetings Uncle, I''m Zhong Lin." Zhong Lin immediately bowed.


    Qin Yun smiled and nodded. "I have a presumptuous request."


    "Uncle, please speak," said Zhong Lin.


    "Can you come to my household and stay by Huan''er''s side for a few days?" requested Qin Yun. Zhong Lin was also one of his son''s romantic interests! It might mend his son''s broken heart if she accompanied him.


    Zhong Lin was somewhat embarrassed, but she was delighted deep down. As she had always liked Meng Huan, she immediately answered, "I naturally have to accompany him now that he is injured."


    "Sister Zhong." Meng Huan could not help but try to speak out.


    "Alright." Qin Yun shouted with a frown. "Look at your present state. Return home."


    With that said, he turned to leave with Meng Huan and Zhong Lin.


    The saber-user of the Saber and Sword Duo said immediately, "Lord, that Ouyang Quan over there said to capture young lord and feed him to the dogs. He even wanted to bring Miss Zhong back and imprison her."


    The Ouyang father-and-son duo, who were already shuddering in fear and hoping that Qin Yun would leave soon, fell into a daze when they heard that. Ouyang Quan even swayed and fell to the ground. The man in colorful robes beside him hurriedly held his father up.


    Qin Yun shot a glance at the father-and-son duo.


    Capture and feed him to the dogs?


    "Gong Peng." Qin Yun spoke. "I''ll leave the Ouyang family to you."


    At the same time, he sent a voice transmission as an exhortation. "As for Tantai Yun, don''t touch her." He decided to leave his son''s affairs of the heart alone.


    "Yes, yes. I understand." Gong Peng answered immediately.


    "Okay."


    Qin Yun nodded and departed with the rest.


    Swoosh.


    Soon, Qin Yun, with Meng Huan and Zhong Lin, as well as the Saber and Sword Duo directly transformed into streams of light that streaked across the sky, returning to the Meng household.


    "Third Master Gong. Spare me! Spare me!"


    "Third Master Gong, please spare us on account of my sister."


    The Ouyang duo was begging for mercy.


    Ouyang Quan''s eldest daughter had married into the imperial palace. She was the most beloved consort of the reigning King Chu. It strongly uplifted Ouyang Quan''s power.


    "Begging for mercy?" Third Lord Gong was incensed. "How dare you? You even bullied my nephew. Do you know what status my nephew holds? Even I have to kiss up to him. I''m telling you this, Ouyang Quan. No one in this world can save you! No one!"


    The Ouyang father-and-son duo was horrified.


    Tantai Yun, who was to the side, did not know Meng Yiqiu by looks alone. However, she knew Third Lord Gong. "Third Lord Gong''s nephew. Two Earth roll experts as guards. Could Brother Huan''s father be¡­" The color in Tantai Yun''s face drained.


    "You are doomed! Ouyang Quan, you are doomed! I have to think of a way to deal with you. How shall I avenge my nephew?" Third Lord Gong had received Qin Yun''s instructions and was filled with confidence. "You can request for help as much as you want now. Anyone would do. I want to see who would come to your rescue."


    Third Lord Gong was usually pugnacious but he was forced to hold back. After all, he knew his brother-in-law abhorred evil acts.


    Now, with Qin Yun''s orders, he naturally felt like he was given free reign to let loose. Now, he could show all of Sovereign Capital how powerful he was!


    "You dare bully my brother-in-law? You even wanted to feed my nephew to the dogs? Hmph!" Third Lord Gong stroked his chin as his eyes were filled with coldness.


    ¡­


    Zhong Lin streaked across the sky with Meng Huan, Qin Yun and the Saber and Sword Duo.


    As it was the night sky and they were flying very fast, Zhong Lin had no way to discern her surroundings.


    "We are flying so fast. Who is Xiao Huan''s father?" Zhong Lin could not help but speculate. "Is he the sect master of a particular top sect? Is he the leader of some huge faction?"

 291 Stepping into the Dao a Second Time Part 1/2

    Zhong Lin was somewhat nervous. Ever since the Zhong family''s decline, she had dedicated herself to cultivation. She went out adventuring as a way to hone herself! After all, a family thrived by either entering the ranks of the government or by producing an expert, especially a Connate realm expert! A Connate intent realm expert was sufficient to make a family clan thrive for a hundred years.


    She acquainted herself with Meng Huan and Tantai Yun when she was out adventuring in Sovereign Capital.


    Meng Huan was truly very pure and innocent! Even after witnessing the various sordid ongoings happening in Sovereign Capital, he kept his forthright and innocent heart while abhorring evil. Zhong Lin was gradually attracted to Meng Huan for those qualities.


    "Both Earth roll experts address him as young lord." Zhong Lin could not help but remain nervous at that moment.


    Swoosh.


    Zhong Lin landed in a manor compound with Qin Yun, Meng Huan, and company.


    "Is this Xiao Huan''s home?" Zhong Lin was still acting cautiously but the Meng household quickly plunged into chaos. All these years, Qin Yun and Gong Yan''er were most concerned about Meng Huan even though they themselves lacked a close relationship. Now, with Meng Huan injured and vomiting blood, the entire Meng household was burning with anxiety.


    Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and the other elite disciples sent by the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect were furious when they learned of the matter.


    Meng Huan was bullied and attacked? Meng Huan was such a harmless man and he did not act in any way like a foppish son of an important father. It was already impressive that Meng Huan did not bully others due to his background. Instead, he was the one being bullied?


    "Lockheaven Sword Dong Wan! He''s ranked on the Earth roll! That''s Liu Qingsha, ranked on the Man roll. And that''s Chu Yunhe from the Man roll¡­" Zhong Lin stood to the side watching everything. "They are all from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. They address Xiao Huan''s father as master and elder?"


    Zhong Lin''s heart palpitated.


    She now had a vague guess.


    "Huan''er! Huan''er!" Gong Yan''er ran over anxiously. "How''s Huan''er? Yiqiu, who injured Huan''er? Who was it?"


    "Don''t panic. It''s fine," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Yiqiu?"


    Zhong Lin''s guess was confirmed.


    First on the God roll!


    He had sliced open the void fifteen years ago! He was publicly recognized as an existence that could shatter the void and ascend as legends spoke of¡ªFrost Sword Meng Yiqiu!


    "This is the number one beauty in the world, Fairy Crabapple Gong Yan''er?" Zhong Lin also looked with awe at Gong Yan''er, who was still at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm. She had not stepped into the Connate realm. She already had wrinkles at the corners of her eyes. Despite cultivating and consuming all sorts of treasured herbs, she still looked like a beautiful woman in her thirties. However, she was the only woman of the legendary Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu!


    Therefore, she was recognized as the number one beauty in the world!


    "Xiao Huan is Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu and Gong Yan''er''s son?" Zhong Lin fell into a trance, and there was even a hint of an inferiority complex.


    ¡­


    A hole was pierced through the heavens!


    News of a scuffle involving Meng Yiqiu''s son at Cloud Gathering Restaurant swept through the upper echelons of the Sovereign Capital''s elite like a tsunami!


    In fact, Meng Huan was the person with the strongest backer among all the young elites of Sovereign Capital! However, he kept a low profile and, with Qin Yun protecting him well, there was almost no news of Meng Huan in the outside world! Even those that were capable of obtaining that information did not spread it for fear of offending Qin Yun. Therefore, Meng Huan''s existence was only known by very few family clans. As for his looks and personality, they were complete unknowns.


    "Fools! Fools! Fools!"


    King Chu, Li Cheng, was awoken late that night. He broke out into a cold sweat when he heard the news. He angrily berated the old eunuch to the side. "That fool Ouyang Quan deserves death. He truly deserves death."


    "Your Majesty, what should we do now?" asked the old eunuch.


    "Strip Ouyang Quan of all his positions. As for the rest of his punishment, ignore it. Let the Meng family and the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect deal with him. Also, invite Elder Dong Wan here tomorrow. I would like to have a chat with him," instructed Li Cheng. Qin Yun might not even entertain him even if he attempted to seek an audience with Qin Yun. So typically, the king would go through Dong Wan to offer his goodwill towards the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Dong Wan also held a very high status in the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. Among the Connate realm members of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, only the sect master Zuo Tang and Dong Wan were ranked on the Earth roll!


    As for the Saber and Sword Duo and others, a total of five, that were on the Earth roll, they chose to follow Qin Yun either for cultivation reasons or for revenge! They also became Guest Elders of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect.


    "Yes," responded the old eunuch.


    "Also, you mentioned a woman named Zhong Lin that accompanied Young Master Meng Huan. She''s Zhong Wanhai''s daughter?" asked Li Cheng. "Let''s do this. Immediately send someone to Peifang and summon Zhong Wanhai to quickly come to Sovereign Capital."


    "Yes, I will immediately pass the order," said the old eunuch respectfully. Following that, he hesitated for a moment and asked, "Your Majesty, what about Consort Ouyang?"


    Li Cheng frowned and waved his hand, "Banish her to the Cold Palace."


    ¡­


    When Tantai Yun returned home, she recounted all that had happened to her father, Tantai Chuan.


    "Father, it was all my fault. I caused such huge trouble." Tantai Yun was also feeling afraid at the moment.


    Tantai Chuan stood there with squinted eyes as his mind raced in contemplation.


    He had slowly forged a path for himself, crawling out from the ranks of poverty in Sovereign Capital. He truly started from the lowest ranks before building ties with gangs. As he was talented in cultivation, his gang grew stronger. He also managed to reach the Connate intent realm! The Nine Chuan Gang he established was also ranked in the top three in Sovereign Capital. With a sufficiently large gang, he could naturally go even higher! Therefore, he had arranged to marry his daughter into the Ouyang family.


    The Ouyang family also saw that the Tantai family had both men and money, so they agreed to the marriage.


    "My Tantai family might be finished, but it can also use this opportunity to skyrocket!" Tantai Chuan narrowed his eyes. For him to climb up from the lowest ranks, he was naturally a sly old fox. "Compared to the legendary number one on the God roll, the Ouyang family is nothing!"


    "My dear daughter." Tantai Chuan smiled at his daughter.


    "Father." Tantai Yun was nervous, for she was also afraid of her father.


    "This is all my fault," said Tantai Chuan. "There''s no need to talk about your marriage with the Ouyang family anymore. They are doomed! I have to think of a way to see if there''s still chance between you and that Young Master Meng."


    When Tantai Yun heard that, she could not help but ask, "Father, is it still possible?"


    "Didn''t you say that the both of you had a very deep relationship?" Tantai Chuan pondered. "Alright, you are not to leave the family compound without my permission from now on. Leave everything else to me."


    "Yes." Tantai Yun nodded obediently.


    In fact, she was accustomed to following her father''s arrangements. He had instructed her to marry a young master of the Ouyang family and she agreed to it after finding his explanation reasonable!


    Now, her father was thinking of a means to bring her and Meng Huan together. She quickly accepted this decision as well.


    "Go and have a rest for now," instructed Tantai Chuan.


    "Yes, Father." Tantai Yun took her leave.


    As Tantai Chuan looked at his daughter''s departing figure, he frowned. "This matter is a slap in the Meng family''s face. Meng Yiqiu will definitely not permit his son to take my daughter as his wife. At best, she will be a concubine! I have to think of a good solution¡­ Being a concubine is good too."


    ¡­


    Not only did King Chu immediately summon Zhong Wanhai to Sovereign Capital, even the powerful family clans who were up-to-date on the news immediately began helping the Zhong family. As a result, the Zhong family quickly found itself in a state of prosperity.


    In comparison¡­ the Ouyang family suffered being kicked by everyone while it was down! Those who had a feud with the Ouyang family took the opportunity to seek revenge. Third Lord Gong also executed Qin Yun''s order with full force and ''dealt'' with the Ouyang family.


    ******


    Qin Yun ignored all that happened outside.


    He was more concerned with his son''s condition.


    Meng Huan''s first, inchoate love ended up a joke despite it lasting three years. That struck a huge blow to Meng Huan. However, with his parents'' concern and Zhong Lin''s companionship, Meng Huan''s state of mind gradually normalized. He wasn''t foolish. He had noticed the feelings Sister Zhong had for him for the past year or more. However, all his thoughts were on Tantai Yun. He even felt that having two women was being overly unfaithful. It was disrespectful to both his female confidants!


    But now, Meng Huan''s heart was gradually aligning with Zhong Lin.


    And yet, he could not help but investigate everything regarding Tantai Yun through the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s connections.


    "What? She was forced to marry the Ouyang family by her father?"


    "She''s now awash with tears at home?"


    When Meng Huan heard the news, he could not help but feel conflicted.


    ¡­


    "This kid." Qin Yun knew everything but he did not mind. "Since he has mostly recovered from his injuries, I should leave the affairs of his heart to him. It can be considered as a way of honing him."


    He would stand to the side and watch the setbacks and frustrations of his son''s maturing process, allowing his son to freely experience them.


    Only if it endangered his son''s life, or any other special matters occurred, would he take action!


    Qin Yun also felt easy now that his son''s injuries had recovered.


    He continued dedicating himself to his cultivation. The nascent Sword Dao continued forming as it became more complete.


    On the sixth day of August.


    The autumn wind was blowing, sending ripples across the lake''s surface.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the lake. His mind felt empty as his Sword Dao gradually became clearer.


    "Dong Wan, pass my order. From this day forth, no one is permitted to enter the back garden. Unless there''s something life-threatening, I am not to be disturbed," instructed Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "Yes, Elder."


    Dong Wan, who was teaching his daughter swordplay, was alarmed when he heard the order. He immediately rushed to the back garden to implement the order.


    The back garden of Meng Manor quickly became a forbidden ground. Everyone, including Gong Yan''er and Meng Huan, was forbidden entry.

 292 Stepping into the Dao a Second Time Part 2/2

    It was the last month of the year, after a snowstorm.


    A fur-coated Gong Yan''er was sitting on the second floor of a building with a furnace. She held a cup of warmed spirit tea as she looked in the direction of the back garden. This was the only spot in the entire Meng Manor compound which allowed one to see past the back garden''s wall. There, she could spot a figure sitting cross-legged beside the lake. That motionless figure was already covered in a layer of snow, making it resemble a snowman.


    "Yiqiu." Gong Yan''er''s heart pained for him. "You are already invincible. Sixteen years ago, you could slice open the void with one strike. You still have so much time ahead of you to cultivate. Why do you need to cultivate so arduously?"


    Although her heart pained for him, Gong Yan''er also felt conflicted. Although Qin Yun allowed her to stay in the manor, she had never been given an official title. She wasn''t even given the title of concubine, much less that of wife.


    "I know that he has always bore a grudge towards me. His poisoning and master''s death happened on my account. Even before that, I was using him. He can''t get over any of that." Gong Yan''er knew very well that if not for her son, she would probably not be permitted to stay in the manor.


    "Regardless, he has treated Huan''er very well. He is very courteous to me too," thought Gong Yan''er.


    Although she did not have any official title, she was still considered Meng Yiqiu''s only woman! As the mother of Meng Yiqiu''s son, Gong Yan''er still possessed extreme influence. Be it the Chu Kingdom''s royalty, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect, or the major factions of the world, none of them dared to offend her.


    "There''s Huan''er too. He is still hesitant towards that Tantai Yun. He''s not decisive enough. Then again, she is the first woman Huan''er ever liked." Thirty percent of Gong Yan''er''s thoughts were on Qin Yun while the rest was on her son.


    And at that moment¡ª


    At the other end of Meng Manor.


    "Sister Zhong! Sister Zhong!" Meng Huan ran to Zhong Lin''s residence.


    "Xiao Huan." Zhong Lin, who was dressed in a snow-white cloak, walked out of a study. She said with a smile, "What brought you here on such a snowy day?"


    In response, Meng Huan came close to Zhong Lin, making her feel somewhat constrained.


    "Sister Zhong, will you marry me?" Meng Huan asked. Even his voice was trembling.


    Zhong Lin''s body quivered as she could not help but look up at Meng Huan.


    Their eyes met.


    "Xiao Huan¡­" Zhong Lin''s head was abuzz with thoughts, as though it was about to explode.


    "Are you not agreeable to it?" Meng Huan turned nervous. It was apparently his own wishful thinking.


    When Zhong Lin heard that, she immediately reacted and shook her head repeatedly.


    Meng Huan was taken aback.


    "Of course, yes. Yes, I will." Zhong Lin was crying tears of joy as she answered quickly.


    Over the past half year, Zhong Lin''s heart when through all kinds of upheavals. She had accompanied Meng Huan while he suffered from depression. It resulted in them becoming closer. Later on, Meng Huan learned that Tantai Yun had fallen ill. He visited her, but did not cut off ties with Zhong Lin. Meng Huan seemed to hate himself and had been in a long dilemma. Zhong Lin accompanied him silently, unwilling to put any pressure on him.


    What Meng Huan said today made Zhong Lin burst out in tears of joy.


    In the study.


    Meng Huan and Zhong Lin were speaking to each other in close proximity. After Meng Huan made up his mind, he felt his thoughts become infinitely more relaxed.


    "In a while, I''ll tell my mother about us. My mother will definitely agree to it," said Meng Huan. "My father is still cultivating in seclusion. It''s been a few months so it will probably not be long before he exits seclusion. My marriage definitely needs my father''s approval."


    "Okay." Zhong Lin was somewhat worried. "Will Uncle Meng be very strict?"


    "My father treats me really well. Don''t worry. There''s nothing to be afraid of," said Meng Huan with a smile.


    Zhong Lin nodded.


    Meng Huan suddenly stood up. "I''m going to practice my sword."


    "Alright." Zhong Lin smiled as she accompanied him to the corridor. She then watched Meng Huan enter the yard to begin his sword practice on the snow-laden ground.


    Sweet bliss filled Meng Huan''s heart, and he also felt at ease after making his decision.


    He demonstrated his Frost Sword Chart, which was different from Qin Yun whose heart resembled an ice mirror. Meng Huan''s sword techniques were more unrestrained! Suddenly Sword Qi surged through his surroundings as there was a whistling sound in the yard. His might was clearly elevated as the Sword Qi even began to create wisps of frosty air. It caused frost to form in midair.


    "This is?" Zhong Lin was astonished. "Sword intent? Xiaohuan has grasped sword intent?"


    ¡­


    Two hours later, Meng Huan and Zhong Lin went to meet Gong Yan''er.


    "What? Huan''er, you have grasped sword intent?" Gong Yan''er was reeling with excitement.


    "Frost Sword Intent." Meng Huan nodded. He felt a sense of accomplishment after grasping sword intent after all his years of cultivation.


    "Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful." Gong Yan''er was overjoyed. Even the son of the person ranked first on the God roll needed to grasp sword intent by his own merits.


    Meng Huan had been practicing in the way of the sword since he was six.


    He had enjoyed sword techniques from a young age! He would place most of his efforts on the sword daily from morning to night. He even got so focused that he disliked conversing with others.


    Later on, he got to a point where he did not even speak more than ten sentences a day. It made Qin Yun and Gong Yan''er extremely worried. It was then that Qin Yun forced Meng Huan to adventure outside. Qin Yun''s keen judgment told him that Huan''er''s talent was extremely high! Furthermore, he was imperceptibly influenced from a young age as he watched Qin Yun''s sword practice frequently.


    He was obsessed with practicing the way of the sword every day. At the age of eighteen, Meng Huan''s foundation of sword techniques was already extremely robust.


    Meng Huan had finally grasped sword intent after four years!


    "And there''s another matter. I want to take Zhong Lin as my wife." Meng Huan said as he looked at his mother. Zhong Lin blushed as she stood by his side.


    Gong Yan''er was not surprised in any way. If her son wanted to marry Tantai Yun, she might have objected to it. But if it were Zhong Lin? She was rather pleased.


    As for family background?


    Did Meng Yiqiu''s son need to consider background when he married someone?


    There was no background that was better than his!


    "I am obviously agreeable to that," said Gong Yan''er with a smile. "However, you need your father''s approval on this matter. There''s no hurry. It shouldn''t take long for your father to exit seclusion."


    "Alright." Meng Huan nodded immediately.


    Meng Huan began waiting in anticipation. The new year passed as he waited.


    ******


    The ninth day of the first month of the year.


    Qin Yun, who had long turned into a sculpture beside the lake, continued having a warm body temperature. The Sword Dao in his mind was fully formed.


    "Whoosh."


    The snow on his body instantly evaporated, leaving Qin Yun''s body clean and untainted as he opened his eyes.


    "Boom!!!"


    Everything within fifteen kilometers around him could be sensed by him. This was his brand new Dao domain!


    "Arise," said Qin Yun softly.


    Immediately, countless amounts of Sword Qi appeared in the back garden. Millions of Sword Qi fused together in an extremely ingenious manner, forming a massive ''Sword of Heaven Earth'' that enveloped the entire back garden. The Sword Qi formed rings after rings that formed an eddy naturally in a limitless fashion. If an entity like the God of War Li Ruji were to fall into it, Qin Yun could trap and grind him to death forcibly through the Sword of Heaven Earth.


    "This is my present Sword Dao. Its perfection is enough to form a world unto itself." Qin Yun smiled.


    This world''s sword techniques had been perfected over long periods of time by generations of elites. The level of ingenuity far exceeded his homeworld, not to mention the ancient world where battles were fought crudely.


    Qin Yun had drawn from each and fused them all into one.


    The fusion of such brilliance formed a ''Sword of Heaven Earth!''


    "I''m able to reach this stage just after stepping into the Dao." Qin Yun stood up and instantly drew the Frost Sword from his waist.


    "Open!"


    The Frost Sword sliced across the lake''s surface, tearing apart a black rift in the void. The rift was about ten feet long and at its widest was two feet wide. If a cultivator wanted to force their way in, it was possible to squeeze through the widest gap.


    Qin Yun watched calmly as he sensed the intense beckoning coming from the black rift before he smiled.


    "There''s no rush. I''ll wait until the fifty years are up! I can enter to take a look just before the dream of a hundred years ends," thought Qin Yun. "I want to see where I would ascend to after I shatter the void and ascend."


    After obtaining the Amita wooden sculpture, he subconsciously received information that he would wake up once the time was up or if he died.


    After experiencing so much, Qin Yun was increasingly certain that the worlds he had experienced were real.


    If they really were ''dreams,'' it would imply that Buddha Amita was way too powerful.


    If they were real worlds, Qin Yun was very interested to know where he would be led to after shattering the void and ascending in this world.

 293 Letter of Challenge

    Chapter 293: Letter of Challenge


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When Qin Yun walked out of the back garden, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples responsible for watching the area revealed a look of pleasant surprise.


    "Elder." All of them bowed reverentially.


    "Oh, Ah Chou." Qin Yun looked at a familiar Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciple and said with a smile, "Send the order to prepare a feast."


    "Yes." The simple and good-natured youth answered immediately. Everyone in the manor knew that Elder Meng was quite an epicure. The manor also hired some famous chefs.


    Qin Yun nodded before leaving.


    "Quickly inform the madam and the young lord."


    "Quickly inform Elder Dong." Some of the disciples were trusted subordinates of Gong Yan''er and Dong Wan, so they immediately reported the matter.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat down and began enjoying some tea and pastry.


    Having not eaten for five months, he maintained his hydration levels by directly absorbing the water vapor from the air. He did not mind it while cultivating, but now he had a powerful craving for all sorts of good food.


    Gong Yan''er brought Meng Huan and Zhong Lin over. Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and company also followed and stood to the side.


    "Father." Meng Huan shouted hurriedly when he was still outside.


    "Huan''er." Qin Yun looked at his son and could not help but smile. Following that, he said in delighted astonishment, "Huan''er, you have broken through to the Connate realm?"


    "I grasped sword intent before the new year. My foundations were already in full harmony so I was naturally able to break through to the Connate realm in one fell swoop," explained Meng Huan.


    "Good."


    Qin Yun was delighted.


    Although his judgment told him that his son was rather talented, Qin Yun always felt unease that his son had yet to grasp sword intent. Now, everything was fine. Meng Huan had grasped sword intent at such a young age! Such talent would rank him among the best in a cohort of Zhou Mountain Sword Sect disciples.


    "Yiqiu, Huan''er has something else to tell you," said Gong Yan''er.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    Meng Huan looked at Zhong Lin, who was standing beside him, and said, "Father, I would like to marry Sister Zhong." Zhong Lin also turned nervous.


    After all, the person in front of her¡­ was Meng Yiqiu, ranked first on the God roll!


    He had entered seclusion for five months without eating or drinking.


    According to rumors, he was a person that could shatter the void and ascend, a person that could become a god or immortal.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at Zhong Lin. Back when she entered the manor, Qin Yun had sent people to investigate her thoroughly. What he found made him rather pleased. Furthermore, he typically left his son''s matters to his son. He was not of a mind to object.


    "Alright," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Since you like her, choose a date. Your mother will go to the Zhong family to ask for Zhong Lin''s hand on our family''s behalf."


    "Thank you, Father."


    Meng Huan was delighted and a happy glint shimmered in Zhong Lin''s eyes.


    With his background, Qin Yun was superior to the Chu Kingdom''s Li Ruji and the Wei Kingdom''s Xiahou Zhen. It was naturally inappropriate for him to visit the family to ask for their daughter''s hand in marriage! Gong Yan''er''s appearance alone would already exert immense pressure on the Zhong family.


    The date for the proposal was decided, as well as the betrothal gifts¡­


    The Zhong family was nervous but they also felt overjoyed.


    On the second day of the fifth month.


    Meng Huan and Zhong Lin were officially married. Another year later, Zhong Lin gave birth to a son.


    ******


    Time passed like flowing water, silently and noiselessly.


    Unknowingly, thirty years had passed since the battle of Sovereign Capital.


    The northern lands remained cold in early spring. A silver-haired elder sat on Mt. Dao Excellence and looked to the south. His breathing was as deep as an endless ocean.


    "Grandfather." Xiahou Lie greeted respectfully.


    "Lie''er." Xiahou Lie continued looking towards the south and said, "My end is approaching. There are only a few months left. As for you, you have yet to step into the Dao."


    "I''m useless." Xiahou Lie lowered his head. He too felt indignant.


    He had been cultivating arduously for a long time.


    He had even deliberately challenged people all over the world. He was now ranked first on the Heaven roll! However, he failed to step into the Dao.


    "Since you haven''t stepped into the Dao and I''m unable to sweep away all obstructions before my end, we shall follow our original plan. Disperse our Xiahou clan across the world and withdraw from society. The Red Lotus Fiend Sect should also go into dormancy," said Xiahou Zhen.


    "Yes," replied Xiahou Lie politely.


    If not for Meng Yiqiu''s astounding rise, Xiahou Zhen would have killed Li Ruji back then. He would have wiped away all obstacles in the world, paving the way for a massive empire.


    Unfortunately, all his efforts were for naught.


    The moment Xiahou Zhen''s end came, Li Ruji would not spare the Xiahou family.


    "Also, get someone to send this letter of challenge to Sovereign Capital. It''s for Meng Yiqiu." Xiahou Zhen took out a letter from his sleeve and handed it to Xiahou Lie.


    "Letter of challenge? Meng Yiqiu?" Xiahou Lie received the letter respectfully despite his puzzlement.


    "On the ninth next month, I will engage Meng Yiqiu in a final battle on Mt. Pool Returning outside Sovereign Capital." Xiahou Zhen''s eyes were calm. "In this battle, I shall either shatter the void and ascend or die fighting! There is no other outcome."


    Xiahou Lie could sense his grandfather''s determination.


    "Spread the news of this battle," said Xiahou Zhen.


    "Spread the news?" Xiahou Lie could not help but comment, "The news will spread throughout the world considering it is a battle of paramount figures. It will definitely attract many spectators."


    "I want it to spread throughout the world," said Xiahou Zhen with a laugh. "After all, this will be my final battle in this world."


    Xiahou Zhen did not wish to give himself a way out at all.


    "Yes," replied Xiahou Lie politely.


    ¡­


    The next day.


    The letter of challenge arrived in Sovereign Capital''s Meng Manor.


    "Madam, this is Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen''s letter of challenge." Dong Wan politely handed the letter of challenge to Gong Yan''er. Gong Yan''er''s age could no longer be concealed. Her face was no longer smooth but her charm as Fairy Crabapple remained.


    "Xiahou Zhen''s letter of challenge?" Gong Yan''er was somewhat puzzled as she opened it.


    Her expression changed when she read it.


    She could not help but stand up.


    "Shameless. Truly shameless." Gong Yan''er was infuriated as she could not help but say, "Where''s Yiqiu? Where is he?"


    "I can''t find him. Apparently, he left the manor about an hour ago," said Dong Wan immediately. "He might be enjoying some delicacies in Sovereign Capital."


    Qin Yun frequently patronized the various restaurants of Sovereign Capital. After all these years, it was his greatest hobby. This was also one of the reasons why he chose to permanently stay in Sovereign Capital. It was a city with a long history that survived numerous dynasties. Furthermore, it was a large city with more than ten million people. Naturally, all kinds of old and exotic culinary skills would be passed down. The number of delicacies Sovereign Capital had to offer matched or was even superior to Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    Whenever Qin Yun had nothing to do, he would go out in search of good food. Qin Yun was very familiar with the many tiny eateries in the alleys and side streets.


    Perhaps no one would imagine that the person eating a bowl of fried noodles by the street side would be ranked first on the God roll, an existence that was rumored to become a god or immortal.


    "Quickly send people to find him," said Gong Yan''er immediately.


    "They have already been sent," replied Dong Wan.


    Gong Yan''er sat down, eyes filled with worry. She could not help but say, "Back then, Yiqiu was kindhearted and spared Xiahou Zhen! If I''m not wrong, Xiahou Zhen''s end should be approaching this year. If he doesn''t battle, he will definitely die of age! Yiqiu still has hundreds of years left to live. A dying person still wants to enter a final battle with Yiqiu?"


    "That''s still nothing. The most important thing is that Xiahou Zhen''s true strength is not to be underestimated," said Dong Wan seriously. "Back then, it was likely Elder spared him because he did not want an internecine outcome. His strength shouldn''t be much different from Elder''s."


    "What are you implying?" Gong Yan''er looked at Dong Wan.


    Dong Wan said seriously, "Back then, Elder was stronger than him but the gap between their strength was limited. Now, thirty years have passed! Anything is possible. Furthermore, with the pressure of his approaching end, as well as his yearning to shatter the void and ascend, Xiahou Zhen might have made a breakthrough. If his strength were to improve tremendously, the outcome of this battle would become very unpredictable."


    Gong Yan''er''s heart tightened as she clenched her fists, protruding her veins.


    "Madam, we have previously seen Elder demonstrate his sword techniques that slice open the void," said Dong Wan. "The first time I saw the void slice open, I felt that there was a massive world on the other side of the black void rift. Every time I recall that yearning, it makes my heart palpitate. Xiahou Zhen also saw the void rift when he battled with Elder! He must be crazy about it."


    "With his end approaching and the allure of another world, who knows what Xiahou Zhen''s true strength is at present?" said Dong Wan. "Most importantly, Elder doesn''t cultivate his body."


    Gong Yan''er''s face turned pale.


    "Right. Yiqiu doesn''t cultivate his body but Xiahou Zhen has." Gong Yan''er was burning with anxiety. "Even if Yiqiu is stronger than him...in a close quarters battle the person with the weaker body will be at a disadvantage unless they are much stronger."


    "Yes." Dong Wan nodded as well.


    His Elder was destined to shatter the void and ascend. Dong Wan naturally did not wish to see his Elder take such a risk.


    And the present Qin Yun was linked to many matters. Many experts were under his patronage. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect was also a lot larger than before. Qin Yun was its absolute pillar of support. If he were to fall, it would cause immense repercussions.

 294 Ninth March Mt. Pool Returning

    Chapter 294: Ninth March Mt. Pool Returning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Thirty years wasn''t a very long or short period of time but it could make a virile man into a grandfather. After thirty years, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect developed to a point where it was tens of times stronger than it originally was. It had already become a powerful sect that was ranked in the world''s top three!


    The strongest person in the sect was naturally Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu, first on the God roll. Immediately following that was Iceheart Sword Meng Huan, ranked twelfth on the Heaven roll! Ranked after him were a series of Earth roll experts. The Zhou Mountain Sword Sect had immense amounts of treasured herbs and powerful manuals. As a result, it produced five Earth roll experts like Zuo Tang and Dong Wan. In addition, there were a few Earth roll itinerant cultivators who came under the sect''s patronage. In total, they had more than ten Earth roll experts!


    "What? Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen has challenged our Elder Meng to a battle outside Sovereign Capital at Mt. Pool Returning on the ninth of March?"


    "What right does he have to do that?"


    "Xiahou Zhen''s lifespan should be ending this year. He''s about to die of age. Such a person wants to enter a life-and-death battle with Elder Meng?"


    There was a commotion in the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s main hall.


    Zuo Tang sat in the sect master''s seat, his eyes burning with fury. "Junior Brother has excellent talent. He is destined to shatter the void and ascend! There''s no need to bother with that Xiahou Zhen."


    "That''s right. If he were to battle Xiahou Zhen," said an Elder anxiously. "He would gain nothing by killing him directly. After all, Xiahou Zhen will soon die of old age anyway! And if Xiahou Zhen were to break through during the life-and-death struggle, he would shatter the void and ascend. We would be letting Xiahou Zhen take huge advantage of us! If he is able to kill Elder Meng because of his powerful body, that would be such a huge loss."


    "Yes, there''s nothing beneficial about this battle!"


    "We cannot fall for his schemes."


    All the members of the upper echelon objected to it.


    Their Elder Meng was not even eighty years old! He had five hundred years to live. Even if he cultivated slowly and improved at a snail''s pace, shattering the void was still easy for him. Why was there a need to risk anything?


    Furthermore, even if Elder Meng made a breakthrough during the struggle, resulting in him shattering the void and ascending, that would mean that Elder Meng would ascend and disappear! That would only be detrimental to the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect and the followers of Meng Yiqiu. They still wished to receive Elder Meng''s support for a few centuries!


    "The Wei Kingdom has released the news. We got wind of the matter quickly but it probably won''t take long for the news to spread throughout the world," said Zuo Tang. "If my junior brother rejects the challenge, it will probably make people think that he''s afraid. This is also part of the Wei Kingdom''s plan. It is deliberately creating such a stir to force my junior brother into accepting the challenge."


    "Yes, we cannot fall for it."


    "Elder Qu, set off with me tonight. We shall rush to Sovereign Capital overnight. Everyone¡­ while I''m not in the sect, all sect matters shall be handled by Grand Elders Wang and Cheng," ordered Zuo Tang immediately.


    ¡­


    That night.


    Zuo Tang and Elder Qu left the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect together. They spent the entire night rushing to Sovereign Capital without making a single stop.


    Elder Qu was one of the geniuses among the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect elite disciples that Qin Yun had taught over the years. He was now a Grand Elder. As he was a disciple of Qin Yun, Zuo Tang wished to use his ties to persuade Qin Yun.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The next morning.


    Qin Yun was still having breakfast when Zuo Tang and Elder Qu arrived. Gong Yan''er, Meng Huan, and company were also standing to the side.


    "Senior Brother, Qu Suo." Qin Yun looked at the two of them and could not help but smile. Qu Suo had once stayed in Meng Manor for more than a decade.


    "Master Uncle Zuo, you have to persuade my father. My mother and I are unable to talk him out of this," said Meng Huan immediately.


    "Yiqiu."


    The plump Zuo Tang could not help but say, "Are you really going to accept the challenge? Can''t you tell that there''s nothing in it for you? Instead, it would give Xiahou Zhen numerous advantages. He is a person that''s about to die of age, while you are still young."


    "It''s hard to find a worthy opponent," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "What''s so hard? With your strength, you will definitely be able to shatter the void and ascend. Wouldn''t you find opponents after you ascend?" said Zuo Tang immediately. "You have to think about your family too. You now have three grandchildren. Shouldn''t you consider them?"


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly.


    It had been more than three decades since he came to this world!


    He had to leave once the fifty years were up!


    "Thankfully, Huan''er is more excellent than even I expected." Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan.


    Meng Huan had enjoyed watching Qin Yun''s sword practice from a young age. Furthermore, he was very introverted in his youth. He placed all his thoughts and efforts on sword techniques day in and day out. Later on, he trained so much that he didn''t speak more than ten sentences a day. At eighteen, Qin Yun was so afraid that he forced his son to go out to hone himself! Thankfully, Meng Huan settled down after he got married. Although he still occasionally went out, he spent most of his time on his sword techniques.


    Furthermore, he was different from Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun had a heart as still as an ice mirror in this lifetime as a result of the Amita figurine.


    As for Meng Huan, he had an exceptionally quiet disposition from a young age! Since he liked quietness, his cultivation of the Frost Sword progressed at breakneck speeds.


    He grasped sword intent at twenty-one.


    He reached the intent domain level at twenty-eight.


    He grasped the Iceheart Paramount realm at thirty-two.


    Following that, Qin Yun wrote a manual for his own Sword Dao. It was named ''Sword of Heaven Earth.'' This Sword Dao manual amalgamated his knowledge of sword techniques from the three worlds he had experienced, forming a final product. It could be considered the most brilliant sword technique in the world. The formation of a world with his Sword Qi could trap one as strong as Li Ruji to death.


    Even Xiahou Zhen would be trapped and ground to death by the Sword of Heaven Earth if he had not improved. There was no need for close combat. Just the Sword of Heaven Earth was capable of taking him down.


    It proved how powerful and terrifying the sword art was.


    As the sword art was extremely brilliant and complicated, to truly be accomplished in it, one had to grasp the Iceheart Paramount realm. Only by doing so would one be considered as having grasped its basics.


    At present, Meng Huan had grasped the basics of the Sword of Heaven Earth. In terms of strength, he was approaching first on the Heaven roll!


    "Huan''er has had a quiet disposition from a young age. My Sword Dao, the Sword of Heaven Earth, is suitable for him to cultivate. Even if he fails to perfectly grasp it, he should be able to step into the Dao simply by understanding some of its essences," thought Qin Yun. "If he were to step into the Dao, I can leave this world with peace of mind."


    ¡­


    Despite Zuo Tang and Elder Qu Suo rushing overnight to persuade Qin Yun, they failed.


    None of them could change Qin Yun''s decision.


    Days passed one by one.


    Word of Xiahou Zhen''s challenge to Meng Yiqiu for a battle on the ninth of March at Mt. Pool Returning outside Sovereign Capital gradually spread throughout the world. It also caused people to boil over in excitement. Qin Yun even made it known that he had agreed to the battle!


    Instantly, countless experts rushed to Mt. Pool Returning outside Sovereign Capital. None of them wished to miss such a rare event.


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, it was the ninth of March.


    It was a gloomy day with a howling wind.


    Qin Yun, Gong Yan''er, Meng Huan, Zuo Tang, Qu Suo, Dong Wan, Liu Qingsha, and company rode on horses. They left from Sovereign Capital''s east gate and headed straight for Mt. Pool Returning.


    "There are so many people," said Qin Yun with a smile. From afar, he could see a swarm of people when they approached Mt. Pool Returning. It was extremely lively.


    "Yiqiu, it''s your final battle with Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen. How many cultivators would want to miss it?" said Zuo Tang. "Besides, everyone can guess that Xiahou Zhen is coming with the intent to perish in battle."


    Qin Yun did not say a word.


    It had been thirty years.


    His sword techniques also needed an opponent worthy of testing their full capabilities.


    "Quick, look! It''s the people from the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect. That''s Lockheaven Sword Dong Wan. That''s the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect''s sect master, Zuo Tang."


    "And that person in the middle is likely Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu."


    "Beside him is his son Meng Huan. It''s rumored that Meng Huan also cultivates in the Frost Sword Chart. He is presently ranked on the Heaven roll."


    "Like father like son."


    "If I had such a powerful father, I would also be ranked on the Heaven roll."


    People from all over the world had arrived as they broke out into a discussion.


    In fact, Meng Huan was presently cultivating the Sword of Heaven Earth. And this manual had also become the most secretive cornerstone manual of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect!


    As they traveled, Qin Yun noticed something.


    "The three royal families, dozens of the world''s largest sects, and some ancient family clans have sent people here today." Qin Yun had already probed his surroundings with his Dao domain, easily identifying the relatively famous figures. It could be said that more than half the top experts in the world had rushed there! They did not wish to miss this battle.


    Qin Yun also saw in the distance a figure standing atop Mt. Pool Returning''s summit. Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen had clearly arrived early.


    When he came to the side of a lake, Qin Yun saw the Chu Kingdom''s Li family not far away. God of War Li Ruji was also there.


    "Elder Meng." Li Ruji cupped his fists from afar.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    "Elder Meng, you have to be careful. Xiahou Zhen isn''t someone to be underestimated," advised Li Ruji. Both of them had Dao domains. They could hear each other without even using a voice transmission.


    "Thanks." Qin Yun turned to exhort the people beside him. "Huan''er, all of you are to wait here. Don''t come any closer than this."


    "Yes."


    Meng Huan, Gong Yan''er, and a huge group of people dismounted their horses. There was even a horse-drawn carriage behind then that had Zhong Lin and her three children. They were also there to watch the battle. Gong Yan''er had prohibited them from coming, afraid that they would be implicated. It was Qin Yun who gave them the permission to come.


    Qin Yun was obviously confident. His Dao domain could envelop fifteen kilometers around him! He could easily protect his family if need be.


    "Father, be careful." Meng Huan could not help but comment while standing by Qin Yun''s side.


    "Yiqiu." Gong Yan''er looked at Qin Yun.


    "There''s no need to worry," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Huan''er, watch carefully. Watch and see the true power of the Sword of Heaven Earth that I have created."


    "Yes." Meng Huan nodded.


    Following that, Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light and flew directly to Mt. Pool Returning.


    There was only one person standing atop Mt. Pool Returning¡ªFiendlord Xiahou Zhen. His Dao domain covered the area, preventing anyone from entering Mt. Pool Returning.


    "He''s here." Xiahou Zhen looked up towards the western sky. The stream of light that flew over was a plainly-dressed man with a sword hanging by his waist.


    Xiahou Zhen beamed.

 295 The Ability of Gods

    Chapter 295: The Ability of Gods


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Xiahou Zhen watched as Qin Yun gradually landed on the summit. He smiled and said, "Meng Yiqiu, I''m really very impressed with you! Despite knowing that you have a chance of shattering the void and ascending, you are still willing to engage in a life-and-death battle with me."


    "A life-and-death battle?" Qin Yun shook his head. "It''s difficult to find an opponent on that level. You were not my match thirty years ago. Even with all the years that have passed, it is still a question if you can pose any threat."


    "That''s true." Xiahou Zhen nodded. "Although I have made some breakthroughs, your talent far exceeds mine. It''s impossible for you to not progress at all in thirty years. Regardless, I have to thank you for giving an old man that''s on his deathbed this final chance. I will definitely use all my strength. You have to be careful too. I will show no mercy when fighting in close proximity."


    "Haha, I will not show mercy either. Be careful," roared Qin Yun.


    Boom!


    Qin Yun shot into the sky with a whoosh. At the same time, countless amounts of Sword Qi appeared from the surface of his body. It surged forward and instantly enveloped a region more than a kilometer across. Qin Yun himself flew to a spot about half a kilometer away on the mountaintop.


    Sword of Heaven Earth!


    The Sword Qi joined together to form a world that spanned more than a kilometer. It completely enveloped Xiahou Zhen within.


    "Sword Qi? Just mere Sword Qi is nothing to me. It''s best you draw your sword quickly." Xiahou Zhen instantly drew his saber and charged at Qin Yun while slashing at the Sword Qi!


    Sword Qi was condensed from Quintessential Essence to begin with. As such, it didn''t contain much strength.


    It was incomparable to true divine weapons! It was no wonder Xiahou Zhen looked at it with disdain.


    In this entire world, no one fought their equals with Sword or Saber Qi.


    "Sword of Heaven Earth! It''s Father''s Sword of Heaven Earth!" Not far from Mt. Pool Returning''s foot, Meng Huan''s eyes lit up. Apart from Qin Yun, he was the person who understood the Sword of Heaven Earth the most in this world. He was after all ranked on the Heaven roll and had read many sword technique manuals. However, he truly believed that the Sword of Heaven Earth was the most impressive manual among all that the manuals he had ever read.


    ¡­


    "Oh?" After Xiahou Zhen charged into the Sword of Heaven Earth, he found himself under constant attack by the surrounding Sword Qi. The impediment he received increased as blow after blow arrived. Each singular blow posed little threat but when they came one after another, he felt like he was a bug trapped in a spider''s web. The more he struggled the greater the impediment.


    "Pew!"


    Sword Qi gathered together and formed an extremely powerful singular Sword Qi that tore through Xiahou Zhen''s battle saber. It streaked across his clothes and sliced a gaping wound across his chest.


    "What?" Xiahou Zhen was alarmed. He looked at Qin Yun who was hovering in midair. "He has yet to take action, and he is still standing afar. He hasn''t even drawn his sword. Just his Sword Qi alone can injure me?"


    Xiahou Zhen had guessed that his opponent would be stronger after so many years.


    After all, Qin Yun was among the handful of peerless figures in history. However, it shocked Xiahou Zhen that Qin Yun was capable of injuring him just with mere Sword Qi alone.


    "All possibilities are taken into account." Meng Huan''s eyes were shimmering. In the past, all Qin Yun did was practice. This time, he was using only Sword Qi to deal with Xiahou Zhen. It made Meng Huan see the true strength of the Sword of Heaven Earth. It excited him greatly. "The Sword of Heaven Earth has eight Ultimates in the four cardinal directions! The eight Ultimates can fuse arbitrarily, resulting in uncountable combinations and permutations of sword moves. Any attack from the enemy has a response at the ready."


    "All that Sword Qi can be formed to make an encirclement attack, demonstrating ''change'' to the limit!"


    "If Father draws his sword, the number of changes will reduce greatly. However, the attacks'' strength would increase exponentially. Xiahou Zhen would only end up losing even more badly." Meng Huan turned more and more excited as he watched.


    As for the various spectators beneath the mountain.


    Experts from all over the world¡ªfrom the three imperial families, numerous top sects and factions, itinerant cultivators¡ªall were staring in bewilderment.


    "What?"


    "A domain formed from Sword Qi can hold back Xiahou Zhen? It even injured Xiahou Zhen?"


    "When has Sword Qi ever been this strong?"


    "The gap between them is just too large."


    Many people found it unbelievable.


    Especially the Wei Kingdom''s Xiahou royal clan. They found it unbelievable that their patriarch would be repressed to such a state. However, they could see that their patriarch''s clothes were tattered and his body was covered in blood! And at that moment, Qin Yun was still standing in midair and had yet to draw his sword!


    ¡­


    High in the sky.


    "Meng Yiqiu. As expected of Meng Yiqiu." Xiahou Zhen''s silver hair flailed in the wind. His body was covered in blood as he turned more deranged. "I entered seclusion for thirty years, gaining insight into the ''Heart Fiend Saber Art.'' I never expected mere Sword Qi to force me to use it."


    "Oh? Feel free to use it." High in the sky, Qin Yun had still not drawn his sword.


    Just his Sword of Heaven Earth was enough to repress his opponent.


    "Alright, first strike."


    Xiahou Zhen attacked.


    When his first strike was produced, the sky darkened. Violent winds began howling as Xiahou Zhen''s eyes turned red. His entire being resembled a legendary fiend.


    "Only true madness can deliver such a saber art." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. The saber''s strike was just too powerful. Sword Qi was ultimately incorporeal. It was constantly cleaved apart as Xiahou Zhen stormed over.


    "Somewhat interesting." Qin Yun instantly drew his sword.


    Clang!


    Frost Sword was unsheathed.


    "The second strike!" Xiahou Zhen''s voice was filled with craziness. His voice resounded through the world as saber flashes that were burning with purple flames came cleaving over in close proximity.


    At that moment, an ice-cold sword flash streaked across the sky, easily blocking the bloodthirsty saber flash.


    If Xiahou Zhen''s Heart Fiend Saber Art was a terrifying saber art that was produced after five hundred years of cultivation and while the user was in a deranged state, giving it the might to render the world asunder, then Qin Yun''s sword arts were like an attack from an immortal. They were otherworldly, for they easily and completely repressed Xiahou Zhen''s terrifying saber attack.


    "The third strike!" Xiahou Zhen turned more frenetic.


    Boom!!!


    The sky reverberated as the saber flashes turned more unrestrained. Xiahou Zhen constantly unleashed a barrage of crazy attacks, instantly causing tumultuous pandemonium. The entire Mt. Pool Returning began crumbling as countless boulders flew off wantonly.


    ¡­


    "Impressive."


    Not far from the foot of the mountain, a watching Li Ruji was astounded. "Xiahou Zhen''s saber art is extremely bloodthirsty. It''s as though it was born for decimation! If I were to fight him again, I would probably die within ten strikes."


    "Master." Standing to the side, Xue Chong could not help but ask. "But with Elder Meng''s sword arts, he is able to completely repress Xiahou Zhen."


    "That''s because it''s no longer a sword art that belongs to the mortal world."


    Li Ruji shook his head. "Our Chu Kingdom''s arsenal holds many powerful manuals. Many of them were the core teachings of experts that have stepped into the Dao! The most powerful ones can barely reach Xiahou Zhen''s level. As for Elder Meng''s sword art¡­ it far exceeds any of the manuals I have ever seen! It''s no longer of the same level. Look, no matter how deranged Xiahou Zhen is, Elder Meng''s sword art can easily parry his attacks and repress him!"


    "Impressive. Truly impressive." Li Ruji could not help but comment. "I suspect that Elder Meng is already capable of shattering the void and ascending. However, he has not departed because there are still things tying him down."


    "He is able to shatter the void and ascend?" Xue Chong was alarmed.


    "Yea. Your level is insufficient to fully appreciate it." Li Ruji''s eyes were filled with shock. "Elder Meng''s sword art has already reached an unfathomable state. All sword arts in this world will appear rudimentary in front of his. This is the level of gods and immortals."


    ¡­


    People were astounded as they watched the battle that caused destruction all around them.


    It was akin to a battle between gods and fiends of legend!


    "The sixth strike!"


    A crazy bellow was filled with hysteria.


    Rumble! Mt. Pool Returning itself blasted and crumbled. Countless boulders were tossed around as the towering mountain exploded. The scene was shocking.


    "Oh no."


    "Quickly run!"


    "Be careful!"


    The people watching the battle at the foot of the mountain were appalled. Boulders that weighed thousands of kilograms came whistling over. Existences at the Connate intent realm might have barely been capable of withstanding them, but how many of the surrounding spectators had achieved the Connate realm?


    "There''s no need to panic." A clear voice reverberated through the surrounding tens of kilometers as it rang in everyone''s ears.


    They saw the countless amounts of rubble that was flying at them from the blast rapidly reduce in speed. Then, the rubble actually came to a stop! After stopping in midair, the rocks flew in another direction, towards a deep valley a distance away. With all the rocks, it only took about thirty seconds to fill the entire valley! They even formed a tiny hill.


    As for the original Mt. Pool Returning, it had been blasted into a massive, deep crater. A distance away, a river constantly discharged its waters into the crater. Mt. Pool Returning was gone and it would one day become a lake!


    "Boom!"


    Pandemonium continued above the crater. Xiahou Zhen was still fighting Qin Yun.


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    Countless people were astounded by what had happened.


    "Moving the mountains to fill the seas this is, and nothing less."


    "The ability of a god! The ability of gods!" People were in a daze.


    Many people had seen the rubble flying towards them. Most scary of all, the boulders were just about ten feet from them! Yet, the boulders stopped and flew away.


    Most miraculously was that despite there being so many spectators, none of them were harmed!


    "Elder Meng''s Dao domain can move an entire mountain?" Li Ruji was astounded. Although he had stepped into the Dao and was ranked third on the God roll, that only made him more aware of how terrifying such abilities were.


    Destroying a mountain was very easy.


    However, stopping the falling rubble with one''s Dao domain and then moving it into another valley was many times harder than destroying a mountain.


    "I also have a Dao domain but compared to Elder Meng¡­ this gap, this gap is just too great." Li Ruji muttered inwardly. "Is this the gap between an existence that can shatter the void and me?"


    "This is Yiqiu''s strength?" Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, Zuo Tang, and the other people with close ties to Qin Yun were reeling in shock.


    "My father is actually this powerful." Meng Huan was astounded. By his side were Zhong Lin and his three children. The three children stood completely still with eyes wide. Their grandfather was capable of moving mountains to fill seas! The three children would probably never forget the scene that had happened before their very eyes.

 296 Heavenly Punishment Descends

    Chapter 296: Heavenly Punishment Descends


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I have secluded myself for thirty years for the sole purpose of cultivating arduously. With the threat of death so close, my Dao finally experienced a qualitative change. My Dao domain reached ten kilometers but even so I cannot match his level at all." Xiahou Zhen felt disheartened. However, he did not know that Qin Yun''s Dao domain also covered ten kilometers when he first stepped into the Dao!


    Since he cultivated in the ancient world for decades, Qin Yun''s Dao domain had been enhanced greatly despite not having its range extended.


    Back during the battle of Sovereign Capital, Qin Yun''s main goal was to verify the strength of his newly-created moves. When one of his strikes sliced through the void, Xiahou Zhen admitted defeat! He did not manage to see Qin Yun''s true strength.


    As for now?


    Qin Yun had started from scratch and stepped into the Dao once again. The moment he stepped into the Dao the second time, his Dao domain spanned fifteen kilometers! It was a qualitative change!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    As both sides continued exchanging blows, Xiahou Zhen''s body remained covered in injuries and blood. His eyes were crimson red as he kept delivering the first six strikes of his Heart Fiend Saber Art.


    "Xiahou Zhen, if this is the limit of your strength, we should end this battle now!" Qin Yun''s voice resounded in Xiahou Zhen''s ears. The first six strikes of the Heart Fiend Saber Art were no longer a mystery to him. Qin Yun''s sword flashes were also becoming more vicious.


    "Meng Yiqiu, I am indeed not your match. However, I still have the seventh strike! I can only produce it when I truly become deranged!" Xiahou Zhen had already been attacking with no regard for his life. He could control the first six strikes of the Heart Fiend Saber Art. Although he appeared to be out of his mind, he was still fully conscious of his actions! However, he was not confident that he could hold onto his consciousness after delivering the seventh strike.


    It was a saber technique based purely on conjecture. He had never dared to attempt it.


    "Take my seventh strike!" Xiahou Zhen''s body boiled with a sanguine aura as his hair turned blood red. A blood-colored sword flash streaked across the sky with a blinding radiance.


    "This saber attack!"


    Everyone who saw the saber flash could not help but feel horrified.


    The strike represented destruction and catastrophe in their purest forms.


    "Then take a strike from me too." Qin Yun''s interest was stirred. It was a rare clash of offensive arts. "World of Swords, Eight Ultimates Sword Rend!"


    Qin Yun''s sword instantly split into eight vague sword flashes.


    But the eight sword flashes eventually fused back into one.


    Rip!


    The void could not withstand the strike as the force tore it apart. A black rift about twenty feet long and three feet wide appeared. When the sword flash struck Xiahou Zhen''s saber, the saber flashes from his maniacal seventh strike shattered. His battle saber even broke apart.


    Xiahou Zhen, whose hair was blood red, dodged in shock. However, his arm was directly ground to nothingness by the sword flash, leaving blood splattering everywhere.


    After Qin Yun stepped into the Dao again, his most oppressive attack was the Eight Supreme Sword Rend, the product of more than ten years of cultivation.


    The Eight Supreme Sword Rend could slice through all things and there was nothing that could stand in its path!


    "Shattering the void." Xiahou Zhen, who had lost his arm, looked at the twenty-foot-long rift. It had an infinite allure to him. It made him yearn for it from his very core. Furthermore, after cultivating all his life, Xiahou Zhen truly coveted shattering the void and ascending into another world.


    His blood-colored eyes were filled with craziness. He laughed out loud as he said, "Meng Yiqiu, I''m indeed not your match. You have won fair and square!"


    His voice resonated throughout the world.


    However, he instantly transformed into a stream of light and charged into the black rift. It was already closing but, as it was still quite big, Xiahou Zhen managed to easily squeeze through it.


    "What?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    When half of Xiahou Zhen''s body was in the void rift, there was a sudden horror that descended!


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    He sensed the appearance of something horrible inside the void rift.


    "Heavenly Punishment!" Qin Yun immediately determined.


    In the previous world, due to the Connate Godfiend bloodline and being close to the world''s creation time-wise, cultivation was very easy. He had reached the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm very quickly.


    He naturally sensed the Heavenly Punishment frequently.


    The Godfiends did not dare violate the rules! Once they overstepped the boundaries, Heavenly Punishment would befall them.


    But in this world, Qin Yun had never sensed any Heavenly Punishment at all!


    But when Xiahou Zhen went inside the void rift, Qin Yun sensed it.


    "That shouldn''t happen right away. Before Heavenly Punishment befalls a person, there should be a warning," thought Qin Yun. "Some sort of guide on what can and cannot be done. If one violates those rules, one will suffer the punishment!"


    "Xiahou Zhen has yet to reach the realm of being able to shatter the void. Therefore, he is not qualified to shatter the void and depart according to the Heavenly Dao? When he tried to force his way in, he must have received a warning." Qin Yun guessed. "However, for Xiahou Zhen, who is about to die, he probably thought nothing of ignoring the Heavenly Dao''s warning completely. Besides, the cultivators of this world have likely not heard of Heavenly Punishment for a long long time."


    Heavenly Punishment was commonplace to fiendcelestials, immortals, and buddhas.


    In this world, the Connate Golden Core was the limit! As a result, the concept of Heavenly Punishment was a thing of the past.


    It was a warning from the Heavenly Dao¡­


    Although Xiahou Zhen was alarmed, he disregarded it.


    "Whoosh." When half his body entered the void rift, his body began crumbling.


    "No, no¡ª" Xiahou Zhen panicked in fear. "I can''t accept it! I can''t accept it!"


    Under the Heavenly Punishment, his body was reduced to smithereens.


    Not a single shred of his body was left.


    Qin Yun stood in midair as he watched everything happen. The phenomenon dissipated as the ripples from the battle gradually calmed down.


    "Xiahou Zhen actually got killed by the Heavenly Punishment." Qin Yun shook his head gently. "Shattering the void and ascending is a heavenly rule! Since it is set, it naturally cannot be disobeyed."


    Qin Yun took a step forward and got very close to the black rift that was closing. He looked deep into the void rift.


    When it was him doing it, he did not receive any warning from the Heavenly Dao.


    After all, he was the one that sliced it open.


    Perhaps, for the time being, he was the only person qualified to shatter the void and ascend in this world!


    ¡­


    Countless people that were watching the battle from afar failed to see the battle clearly due to the high altitude of the combatants. Furthermore, there were the occasional blinding sword and saber flashes!


    Suddenly everything began to return to normalcy.


    The world restored its calm.


    People looked high into the sky and saw Qin Yun standing beside the black rift that was slowly closing. He was watching it silently.


    "A void rift."


    "Is this the shattering of the void?"


    "Could it be possible that Meng Yiqiu is already capable of shattering the void and ascending?"


    Countless people turned excited.


    Although they had heard that Meng Yiqiu could slice open the void during the battle three decades ago, few people actually saw it.


    Today, many experts had witnessed it for themselves! More than half the world''s Connate realm experts were there to witness the battle.


    "Eh? Where''s Xiahou Zhen?"


    "Why did Xiahou Zhen disappear?"


    "Nothing. There''s no sign of him anywhere near here."


    People, even a few experts, carefully observed the surrounding five kilometers. There wasn''t even a corpse.


    And a distance away.


    Qin Yun directly flew over, reaching the spot where Meng Huan, Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, and company were gathered.


    "Father." Meng Huan immediately went forward before Qin Yun landed.


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang was delighted too. Gong Yan''er was beaming. "Yiqiu."


    "Hahaha. Yiqiu, your moving of mountains to fill the seas and shattering of the void, rending the world asunder, is truly godlike. Only legendary gods and immortals are capable of doing this." Zuo Tang walked over with a smile. Following that, he could not help but whisper, "Yiqiu, tell me honestly. Are you already capable of shattering the void and ascending?"


    Gong Yan''er, Meng Yuxiang, and Meng Huan were momentarily astounded.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. "I can probably do it."


    "Father, don''t tell me you are ascending right now." Meng Huan turned a little anxious.


    "Don''t worry. It''s not yet time," said Qin Yun with a smile. However, that time was not too far away. He had to leave once his fifty years were up.


    "Elder Meng. Congratulations." Li Ruji brought the Li family over as well. He said with a smile, "Only after seeing the battle do I know how big the gap that exists between us is."


    Qin Yun looked up slightly. Suddenly, with a whoosh, a group of people flew over from afar. They were the spectators from the Xiahou clan.


    "Elder Meng." A golden-robed youth who was leading the group immediately said reverentially. "Might I ask Senior Meng if my patriarch is still alive?" Many people in the vicinity immediately stopped what they were doing and listened in. Was Xiahou Zhen dead or alive?


    Qin Yun gave the golden-robed youth a glance. "Xiahou Zhen is dead!"


    The golden-robed youth''s face turned pale. However, the Xiahou family was already prepared for such an outcome.


    "Where is my patriarch''s corpse?" pressed the golden robed youth.


    "When I shattered the void with a strike, there was nothing left of him," said Qin Yun.


    Following that, Qin Yun instructed Meng Huan and company, "Let''s go. Time to return."


    This battle made Qin Yun curious about where the void rift led to!


    But¡­ if he were to leave the world he was in, he would have to bid farewell to Huan''er, Yuxiang and the rest. Qin Yun decided to cherish the remaining ten plus years and spend time with them all.

 297 Ascension

    Chapter 297: Ascension


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After the battle at Mt. Pool Returning, the mountain was reduced to a lake, and had to be renamed Lake Pool Returning. This lake became a famous tourist attraction which the commoners of Sovereign Capital would go to when on vacation. A stone monument was erected there to commemorate that battle.


    Time slowly passed.


    The days Qin Yun had left in the world began decreasing. Even with his heart as still as an ice mirror, he could not bear to part with it.


    Humans were not vegetation that was void of emotions!


    For instance, Qin Yun began playing with Meng Huan when his son was still a gurgling baby. He even got covered in his piss. He couldn''t exactly discipline the playful child when he was so young after all. When Meng Huan was six, he began guiding him in the practice of the sword. He watched him grow bit by bit and reveled in joy with each development milestone. His feelings for Meng Huan was in no way inferior to those he had for Xiaoxiao or his parents who were waiting in his homeworld.


    "I''m thankful that Huan''er''s talent with the sword is higher than what I originally expected." Qin Yun watched with great delight. "I could even say that the true genius of this world isn''t me. It''s Huan''er."


    "I''m an outsider after all. When I descended into this world, I had already stepped into the Dao."


    "Huan''er is the true genius."


    Qin Yun sat in a yard as he enjoyed his alcohol alone.


    Meng Huan grasped the Iceheart Paramount realm at the age of thirty-two and began cultivating the Sword of Heaven Earth.


    At the age of thirty-six, Meng Huan fought Peerless Sword Sage¡ªfifth on the God roll¡ªto a tie using the Sword of Heaven Earth. He was ranked first on the Heaven roll then!


    At the age of forty-eight, Meng Huan finally stepped into the Dao! The moment he did so, his Dao domain spanned five kilometers! In terms of realm, he matched Li Ruji. Li Ruji had only reached that realm only after cultivating for more than four centuries but Meng Huan had already matched him the moment he stepped into the Dao! However, he was still inferior to Qin Yun, since Qin Yun''s Dao domain spanned ten kilometers the moment he stepped into the Dao in the previous world. The second time Qin Yun stepped into the Dao, his Dao domain extended to fifteen kilometers.


    But¡­ the number of experiences Meng Huan had been through were ultimately incomparable to Qin Yun''s.


    Qin Yun''s homeworld was lurking with fiendish demons. There were many Dharma spells and talisman amulets, as well as many more opportunities.


    "With Huan''er''s present strength, he can match Li Ruji in battle. He''s still very young, too. Before his five hundred years are up, he definitely has a chance of shattering the void and ascending," thought Qin Yun. "If this world is real and Huan''er manages to ascend, perhaps there might be a day the two of us can reunite."


    ¡­


    He sat alone the entire night.


    When dawn appeared over the eastern horizon, Qin Yun put down his cup. The sky had lit up.


    His fifty years were up. This was the last day!


    ******


    Beside Lake Orchid outside Sovereign Capital.


    A large group of people was gathered here because an astounding event was about to happen¡ªFrost Sword Meng Yiqiu was going to shatter the void and ascend today!


    "Elder Meng, I always thought I would die of age first. I never expected to be able to witness your shattering of the void and ascension before I died! Haha. I, Li Ruji sure have good luck. I can die without regrets after seeing this scene." Li Ruji''s hair was already snow-white. He too was close to his end. He and Xiahou Zhen came from the same generation. The only difference was that he had an early rise because of his powerful family clan. He also established the Chu Kingdom early. Although Xiahou Zhen was older, he only attained his accomplishments at a later age. He also stepped into the Dao later. It was only in his later years that he surpassed Li Ruji to become first on the God roll. As such, the Wei Kingdom had a shorter history than the Chu Kingdom.


    "Ascension has always been a legend."


    "I can finally have the chance to see it today."


    The Elders of the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect quipped. They too felt honored.


    Qin Yun smiled as his gaze landed on Zuo Tang.


    "Senior Brother," said Qin Yun.


    "Can''t you stay for a few more days?" Zuo Tang could not help but ask. "Although I already imagine that you can''t bear with it, isn''t it a little early? You have not even cultivated for a hundred years yet."


    "I have to leave." Qin Yun smiled but he did not elaborate.


    "Alright, then. I know I can''t convince you. I have not seen the world that lies beyond ascension," said Zuo Tang. "But I believe there will be fiendcelestials and immortals there. You have to be careful when you head there."


    "Other than fiendcelestials and immortals, there might be demons too," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    Qin Yun swept his gaze toward Dong Wan and Liu Qingsha. Both of them had followed him for a very long time.


    "Elder." Dong Wan remained ever respectful. Other than Iceheart Sword Meng Huan who was ranked third on the God roll, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect also had Lockheaven Sword Dong Wan who was ranked fifteenth on the Heaven roll.


    "Master, take care." Liu Qingsha''s eyes were brimming with tears. Her potential was quite ordinary and, to this date, she only remained ranked on the Man roll.


    Following that, Qin Yun looked at his sister.


    "Brother." Meng Yuxiang could not help but hug him while crying incessantly. She was already getting old and had some white hair.


    "Brother, I really do not wish for you to leave." Meng Yuxiang sobbed. With her brother backing her, she naturally enjoyed an honorable status. Her son had also become the person in charge of the Duan family. Meng Yuxiang could also be considered as having led a magnificent life.


    Qin Yun gently patted his sister on her back. "How old are you now? Aren''t you afraid to be mocked by your juniors?"


    Qin Yun looked at the group of children to the side.


    They were Meng Yuxiang''s grandchildren. There were also juniors from the Duan family. All of them were being watched by their parents. None of them dared to cause a stir at such an important moment.


    "Alright. It''s time I leave." Qin Yun released his sister.


    "Huan''er."


    Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan.


    "Father." Meng Huan looked at Qin Yun. "In the future, I will shatter the void and ascend to meet you."


    "Hahaha, great." Qin Yun roared with laughter.


    However, he knew very well that even if Meng Huan shattered the void and ascended, it was unlikely he would end up in Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    Qin Yun had long made the necessary preparations for Meng Huan and his descendants. He even left behind two Dharma spells. One of them was the Beam Transformation Art and the other was the Cloud Leap Art. Both of them were flying Dharma spells! As this world had thin spiritual energies, even the spiritual energy gathered in a domain formed by a Paramount realm expert was insufficient. One needed to step into the Dao! Through the Dao domain, one could forcefully steer the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies so as to maintain the ordinary strength of a Dharma spell.


    Once one stepped into the Dao and learned the Beam Transformation Art or the Cloud Leap Art, their speed would be the fastest in the world!


    The Cloud Leap Art was naturally far inferior to the Beam Transformation Art but it was much faster than the silly notion of relying solely on one''s Dao domain to fly.


    The Meng family had six secret manuals which included the Sword of Heaven Earth and the two flying Dharma spells. The flying Dharma spells were exclusive to them. As for the Sword of Heaven Earth, the Zhou Mountain Sword Sect also kept a copy.


    "Father, say something to Mother." Meng Huan could not help but comment.


    Qin Yun nodded and looked at Gong Yan''er.


    Gong Yan''er was already seventy-eight years old. Although she was at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refinement realm and had consumed all sorts of treasured herbs, she was still very advanced in her years. She had some white hair and it was becoming difficult for her to hide her age. She was not much different from Meng Yuxiang.


    As for Qin Yun? He retained his youthful looks.


    "Yiqiu." Gong Yan''er felt inferior but she could not help but say, "I know that you have always had a knot in your heart when it came to us, and a grudge against me."


    "Yan''er, I hold no grudges against you." Qin Yun held her hand. Gong Yan''er trembled as she looked at Qin Yun. He continued, "There is no knot either."


    It was the truth. There were no grudges or knots in his heart.


    However, it was also true that there was no love. But in the end, she was still Meng Huan''s mother! After spending time together for fifty years, he did come to think of her as a confidant and good friend.


    "You don''t blame me?" Gong Yan''er turned anxious.


    "I do not." Qin Yun nodded. "Let bygones be bygones. It''s all in the past."


    Gong Yan''er could not stop the tears from streaming down her face.


    She had waited for this day for far too long.


    "Huan''er. I''m leaving. You have to take good care of your mother," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Meng Huan nodded.


    With that said, Qin Yun swept his gaze at the surrounding crowd before turning to fly up into the sky. He flew into midair and drew a sword from his waist. It was an ordinary weapon. As for Frost Sword, Qin Yun had left it with the Meng family as a family heirloom. At Qin Yun''s level, even though he had not deliberately refined it, the Frost Sword received his Sword Dao''s nurturing over time. It had also evolved to become more powerful.


    Frost Sword now contained some of the aurae of Qin Yun''s Sword Dao. As a result, it was one of the best weapons in the world.


    Qin Yun would naturally not bring such a divine weapon with him into the void.


    Rip!


    With a seemingly nonchalant wave of his sword, the void easily tore apart to reveal a gigantic rift. It was a black rift that spanned thirty feet.


    Qin Yun looked down and smiled. Following that, he flew into the black rift with a whoosh.


    "Father!"


    Meng Huan looked up and could not help but mutter softly.


    Following that, the black rift in the sky closed. Meng Yiqui''s figure was never to be seen again.


    ¡­


    On the third day of the third month of the year of Chu Yongning''s 18th reign, above Lake Orchid outside Sovereign Capital, Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu shattered the void and ascended!


    Three hundred years later, Meng Yiqiu''s son Meng Huan similarly shattered the void and ascended at the same spot!


    Both father and son''s shattering of the void and ascension naturally became a legend that was handed down from generation to generation. As for the Sword of Heaven Earth that both of them studied, it also was recognized as the number one manual in the world! Years later, the manual as well as the divine weapon, Frost Sword, stirred up numerous storms.


    ******


    Qin Yun did not know what happened after he left.


    When Qin Yun flew into the void rift, he sensed a mysterious and unfathomable power tugging at his body.


    "Whoosh."


    He rapidly flew across the black void.


    In a blink of an eye, he flew for billions of kilometers. He tore through space again and again as the distant scene ahead of him remained in constant flux.


    Occasionally, he saw a massive star in the distance.


    At other times, he would see a gargantuan fiendcelestial slumbering in an ancient and lonely star.


    He also saw a huge fiery ball with a three-legged bird flying around the flames.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was astounded when he saw all this. "We have always talked about Other Realm Fiendcelestials! In my homeworld, there is indeed an other realm! Furthermore, it is mysterious and shocking."


    He constantly flew.


    The mysterious power tugged at Qin Yun as he traversed an unknown distance.


    Qin Yun saw a massive star in the distance. On its periphery were layers of lightning that swam across it as a form of protection. He could sense a repressive force from the star despite it being far away! Furthermore, the mysterious power was pulling him towards the massive star.


    "Is the shattering of the void and ascension meant to bring me to this star?" Qin Yun guessed.

 298 Return, Awakening

    Chapter 298: Return, Awakening


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As Qin Yun was being pulled towards a massive star by a mysterious power, a buddha that emitted endless light an infinite distance away smiled as it watched him. "This fellow actually managed to ascend? Now now, if you were to really enter the Effulgent World, it would be quite troublesome to get you back home. It''s time to send you back now!"


    The buddha gently pointed.


    Qin Yun, who was flying towards the massive star, suddenly had a change in expression. He felt an unbelievable power befall him! He was being protected by a special power during his ascent, but against this unbelievable new power, everything else appeared infinitely weak.


    "This is¡­" Qin Yun instantly determined, "The Amita figurine''s power."


    He was very familiar with this power.


    Since the beginning of this dream, it was this power that had sent him to two separate worlds.


    "Boom!" When the immense power descended upon him, Qin Yun''s body was immediately pulverized. His clothes and weapons were completely destroyed, leaving nothing behind. As for his soul, it was enveloped by the power.


    At that moment, Qin Yun could see a radiating buddha with eyes filled with infinite wisdom an infinite distance away from the power. The buddha gave him a nodding smile.


    At that moment, Qin Yun''s mind was sharpened by the fortuitous encounter. He knew that the buddha was Amita. He immediately sent a signal through his soul, asking the question he wanted to know the answer to. "Your Supremacy, were the two worlds I visited real?"


    "They are real." The buddha smiled and confirmed. "Qin Yun, it can be considered an act of fate that you obtained the figurine I left behind. Since the dream of a hundred years has ended, our shared fate has also come to an end. It''s time for you to return. Return!"


    Following that, Qin Yun''s mind went abuzz as everything turned white.


    Sou!


    Under the force of the power, Qin Yun''s soul rapidly tore through spacetime. It was much faster than ascension. Soon, he arrived in a familiar world. It was the one and only Qin Manor in Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance!


    ******


    Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    In the chamber.


    Qin Yun''s body had been sitting cross-legged for a hundred days straight.


    "Uh."


    Qin Yun grunted softly as he opened his eyes to look at his surroundings.


    There was a light fragrance around him. The layout of the chamber was also somewhat familiar. It just appeared very distant in his memories. Following that, Qin Yun looked in front of him. The Amita wooden figurine that had been placed on the ground had shattered completely.


    "This wooden figurine was an opportunity Amita left behind." Qin Yun felt inundated by emotions.


    During the dream of a hundred years, he had descended into two worlds.


    He descended into Wing and possessed a body filled with bloodlust. During those fifty years, he had to constantly repress the killing intent in him.


    He then descended into Meng Yiqiu. He entered that world with a heart as still as water, a heart that resembled an ice mirror. Having such a calm mind aided him in various aspects but his emotions were a lot more subdued.


    But at that moment¡ª


    He had returned to his true body. There was no longer any external influence which prevented Qin Yun from having a heart as still as water.


    "They were real."


    "The two worlds were real." Qin Yun''s voice trembled. The memories from the those hundred years surged through his mind. "Huan''er¡­ even if you can shatter the void and ascend, I don''t know if we can ever meet! I am only of the sword immortal lineage. I''m unable to convert my cultivation. If I fail to create my own Essence Soul Dharmic formulation, I will only have a lifespan of five hundred years."


    "Also, Yuqing, Cailan. They were all real."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes as tears silently flowed down his cheeks.


    He now knew that they were real¡­ but it was near impossible for him to ever meet them again!


    "In order to meet them again, I have to create my Essence Soul Dharmic formulation," thought Qin Yun. He also knew that Meng Huan and company had to achieve success in their cultivations!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun remained in the chamber for a long while as he got his feelings under control.


    Only after that did he stand up and open the door to the chamber.


    "Whoosh."


    When he walked out of the chamber, he was met with a cold night breeze.


    Qin Yun instantly saw a table in the yard. A group of people was sitting around the table. They immediately stood up.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao, who was dressed in a pale-red dress, stood there, looking at Qin Yun nervously. Standing beside her was the dragon lady, Ao Xue.


    "Yun-er."


    "Brother!"


    Qin Liehu and Changlan, as well as his brother Qin An, were there too.


    Qin Yun looked at them and immediately his saddened heart felt a lot better.


    Even though he had spent a hundred years away, the days of surviving in the village with his parents and brother and the days of entering Grand Dominance City remained vivid in his memories. The experiences he had with his wife, Yi Xiao, were also deeply imprinted in his mind. They had fought Water God together, kissed under the moon while floating above the river''s tidal wave¡­ Lived a perilous life in the Immortal Abode and got married¡­


    "Mother-in-law. Father, Mother, Brother," greeted Qin Yun with a smile. "Why are all of you here this late?"


    "Yi Xiao told us that you would come out of seclusion tonight," said Changlan with a smile. "She said that this seclusion is different from the others and wanted everyone to welcome you back together."


    Yi Xiao was decked up in a pale red dress. It was evident that she had put a lot of effort into making herself up.


    She knew that Qin Yun was dreaming for a hundred years. It troubled her, made her worried that he would experience a great change in personality. She was afraid that he would forget her after spending a hundred years away from her. She had too many worries.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun walked over and gently hugged his wife.


    Yi Xiao entered Qin Yun''s embrace.


    Their enjoyed their embrace and felt the heart beats and breaths of one another.


    "How do you feel after dreaming for a hundred years?" asked Yi Xiao with a whisper.


    "I missed you," replied Qin Yun.


    Some feelings would wane over time.


    However, there were some feelings that caused greater yearnings with time! They would become stronger! Qin Yun often missed his wife during the hundred years of dreaming. No other woman could enter his heart.


    When Yi Xiao heard this, her face could not help but suffuse a smile.


    "Yun''er," said Changlan with a smile when she saw this. "It''s gotten quite late. We won''t be disturbing you any longer. The both of you should head to bed early."


    "Yes, yes, yes. We shall be leaving." When Ao Xue saw her daughter and son-in-law enjoying their embrace, she also felt happy.


    The group of people left immediately.


    They did not know that Qin Yun had dreamed a hundred years. To Qin Liehu and company, going into seclusion for a hundred days did not seem that long.


    Soon, there was only Qin Yun and Yi Xiao left in the yard.


    "You made yourself up? You even used rogue and all kinds of cosmetics?" Qin Yun looked at the beautiful wife he was embracing.


    Yi Xiao''s eyes were watery as she said with a pout, "I was worried someone would forget about his haggard wife after dreaming for a hundred years."


    "How can I forget? My Xiaoxiao is the most beautiful woman in the world," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "You sure have a glib tongue," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "It''s already late. Let''s go in and have a rest," said Qin Yun as tugged at her.


    "I still have things to tell you," protested Yi Xiao.


    "No matter what it is, as long as the world is not collapsing, we have to go in and have a rest right now," said Qin Yun. "Lone Yin does not lead to birth and solitary Yang does not allow growth. Xiaoxiao, you have only spent a hundred days without me but I spent a hundred years. I have been a solitary Yang for too long!"


    Yi Xiao could not help but blush. "Seriously, you¡­"


    Immediately, the two entered the room.


    After an Yin-Yang complementation romp that lasted half the night, they finally got some rest. Through the paper windows, they could see that the sky was gradually turning bright.


    Yi Xiao lay in Qin Yun''s embrace as her jade-like arm was placed above the blanket.


    "By the way, Brother Yun. How was your hundred years dream? You previously said that it would guide your cultivation?" asked Yi Xiao curiously. "You are already this strong after cultivating for a few decades in the real world. How much progress have you made after dreaming for a hundred years? Did you step into the Dao?"


    "I have long stepped into the Dao and grasped my Sword Dao." Qin Yun chuckled. "I''m telling you, even some of the weaker Essence Soul fiendcelestials and immortals might not be a match for your husband, much less the other mortals."


    Yi Xiao was astonished. "You are that strong?"


    "I still have to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword. Once my Intrinsic Flying Sword is perfectly nurtured, I''ll naturally be impressive." Qin Yun was rather confident. "You mentioned that you had something to tell me. What was it?"


    "Oh, there are two things," said Yi Xiao. "They are both rather important. The first thing has to do with your sister Chen Shuang whom you have always been concerned about! She has already returned to Grand Dominance."


    "Xiao Shuang is back?" Qin Yun was a little moved by the news.


    Eleven years ago, Chen Shuang had left Grand Dominance, leaving only a letter behind. There was no news of her thereafter.


    Qin Yun had always been worried about her.


    "She returned to Grand Dominance two months ago," said Yi Xiao. "She even came to our manor to meet you but you were in seclusion. Your sister was somewhat disappointed when she didn''t get to see you."


    "Where is she now?" asked Qin Yun immediately.

 299 A Thousand Years of Planning

    Chapter 299: A Thousand Years of Planning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "She is currently living in Swallow Phoenix Brothel! Every few days, she will play the zither or pipa. The guests will only hear her music, but not see her face. Even offering large amounts of gold to meet her doesn''t work," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "That sister of yours is very famous right now. Many rich guests come from all over Jiang Prefecture just to listen to her music."


    "That impressive?" Qin Yun was astonished. "Eleven years ago, some might have called Xiao Shuang peerless in both sword dancing and pipa but she was only at the level of a county''s Courtesan Belle."


    "She''s much better now. I even went to listen to her perform once," said Yi Xiao. "I''m certain that she is a cultivator. Furthermore, her realm is rather high. And it is all infused in her pipa. Even I teared up because I could not help but be influenced by her music."


    Qin Yun was astonished. "She was already older than twenty back then. How did she knock open the gate of immortality?"


    "That I do not know," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded while deep in thought.


    There were, of course, some exceptions to the rule that one cannot knock open the gate of immortality after the age of twenty. For example, a person could obtain a treasured herb that revitalized them and gave them the needed push.


    "We will go visit Xiao Shuang later today. Accompany me," said Qin Yun.


    "Aren''t you afraid I''ll be jealous?" quipped Yi Xiao. As she spoke, she sat up to put on her clothes. She quickly slipped into a Dharma treasure robe.


    "She''s my younger sister." Qin Yun got up as well.


    "Hehe, in Lady Chen Shuang''s eyes, you might be more than just an elder brother," joked Yi Xiao. "Alright, I''ll pass the order for the servants to prepare some food."


    "By the way, didn''t you say that there were two matters? What is the other matter?" asked Qin Yun.


    "The other matter is somewhat special. I''ll tell you later in detail," said Yi Xiao before she walked out the room.


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    The couple sat down for breakfast.


    "So what''s the second matter?" asked Qin Yun as he drank his congee.


    Yi Xiao turned somewhat serious as she explained, "It''s the Flood Dragon King from Qian Prefecture''s Yellow Wyrm Lake. About a month ago, he came to visit you. I asked him about the matter but he hesitated to say anything without you there! After I pressed¡­ he said that his days were numbered and that he needed your help."


    "His days were numbered?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "That yellow flood dragon is also a Connate Golden Core realm demon. Furthermore, he is at the domain level. He''s rather famous among the Water race demons. Why would his days be numbered?"


    "It''s best you ask him yourself. I felt like there were many things he was unwilling to tell me," said Yi Xiao.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the Inspect Heavenly Token. He directly contacted the Flood Dragon King of Yellow Wyrm Lake through it.


    Buzz.


    Soon, a figure appeared in midair. Yellow Wyrm was in humanoid form but he had a yellow flood dragon''s head. When he saw Qin Yun, he bowed reverentially and excitedly. "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Why were you looking for me?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Are there any outsiders around you, Sword Immortal Qin?" asked Yellow Wyrm.


    "Don''t worry," said Qin Yun.


    Yellow Wyrm nodded immediately and said, "This matter is related to Po Cloud Lake''s Black Dragon."


    "Black Dragon?" Qin Yun knitted his brows. "Continue!"


    Yellow Wyrm continued, "Black Dragon chanced upon a secret of my yellow flood dragon lineage! He carefully initiated a plot that has spanned a thousand years. He slowly befriended my yellow flood dragon lineage and even married his daughter to me. I knew nothing of his schemes back then and was overjoyed! I thought that having such a father-in-law would be a form of backing."


    "I never expected that Black Dragon''s machinations would run so deep. The powerful demons in my Yellow Wyrm Lake were secretly planted by him. And there were others that he had drawn over to his camp! Furthermore, that shrew later became the Dragon Queen of my Flood Dragon Palace. She gave birth to two sons for me¡­ Black Dragon even sent his disciple to personally help that shrew! His disciple was also a Connate Golden Core intent domain level demon. To be honest, the Dragon Queen was in control of more than half the power in Flood Dragon Palace."


    Yellow Wyrm smiled bitterly.


    Qin Yun was enlightened!


    "To ensure his success, Black Dragon instructed that shrew to have all my illegitimate children killed." Yellow Wyrm shook his head. "And, as you know, that resulted in the death of Sword Immortal Qin''s good brother, Fu Qing."


    Qin Yun listened.


    He had never forgotten Scholar''s death! Fu Qing was a brother that he had experienced life and death struggles with on many battlefields.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you were infuriated back then. Furthermore, your strength was astounding. That shrew and her senior brother were appalled, and also afraid that they would lose their lives if they remained in Flood Dragon Palace! Therefore, the shrew and her senior brother fled immediately," said Yellow Wyrm. "The moment they left, I immediately took the opportunity to wipe out all unloyal agents within Flood Dragon Palace. I even activated an array formation to prevent Black Dragon from having any chances to get me."


    "It looks like I ended up helping you," said Qin Yun.


    "That''s right. Because of you, I became the true lord of Yellow Wyrm Lake," said Yellow Wyrm. "Although I knew that Black Dragon would not easily give up plans that he had been enacting for a thousand years, I felt that he would not be able to attack me since he was an Essence Soul realm demon! I wasn''t afraid of him."


    "I led a carefree life for seven years, certain that Black Dragon could do nothing to me."


    "However, I never expected him to bribe those of the Water race in my Flood Dragon Palace. Slowly, over time, they poisoned me with the Seven Emotions Poison," said Yellow Wyrm wryly. "By the time I noticed it, it was already too late."


    "Seven Emotions Poison is something that only Patriarch Myriad Demon of Heavenly Demon Palace is capable of refining. It''s extremely precious. Just one concoction is worth a first-grade Dharma treasure," said Qin Yun. "He actually used it on you?"


    For Black Dragon to make such a huge investment, he was definitely expecting a very great return on investment!


    "This secret is something only children of my yellow flood dragon lineage can obtain. Black Dragon married his daughter to me and she had two dragon sons! Those two ingrates are both with Black Dragon," explained Yellow Wyrm. "Apart from the two ingrates, the only remaining member of my bloodline is that little fish demoness who you are protecting, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun said, "From the looks of it, the secret of your yellow flood dragon lineage is quite a big one."


    "To be honest, my yellow flood dragon lineage is not related to the Dragon race." Yellow Wyrm''s eyes were filled with confidence. "My yellow flood dragon''s ancestor was a yellow wyrm that came to this world from another realm."


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Nearly all the flood dragons in the world were descendants of the Dragon race with mixed bloodlines.


    Pure-blooded dragons were very rare.


    However, with all the mixed-blood descendants, the numbers were just too many. Even the Dragon race itself did not know how many descendants they had! Everyone in the world simply thought that the yellow flood dragon bloodline was just another set of ordinary flood dragons.


    "A typical sect prospers for a few thousand years before collapsing. As for my yellow flood dragon lineage, it has survived for tens of thousands of years. This is not simple luck. Instead, it is because my lineage has an extraordinary bloodline. As long as one inherits the throne as Flood Dragon King, they will eventually reach the Connate Golden Core," said Yellow Wyrm confidently. "In terms of bloodline prestige, we are in no way inferior to pure-blooded dragons."


    "The descendants of an Other Realm yellow wyrm?" Qin Yun was secretly astonished.


    "Unfortunately, my father was overly foolish. He leaked the secret and Black Dragon learned of it. Black Dragon schemed for a thousand years and his plans are finally coming to fruition," said Yellow Wyrm. "They just want me dead now! Once I''m dead, my two ingrate sons by Black Dragon''s side would have a chance to become the new Flood Dragon King."


    "He can dream on!"


    Yellow Wyrm''s expression was hideous. "He wiped out my children and controlled me. He even plotted to kill me! Even if my yellow flood dragon lineage is exterminated, I will absolutely prevent Black Dragon from obtaining the secret of my yellow flood dragon line."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I implore you to bring that little fish demoness to Flood Dragon Palace as soon as possible," said Yellow Wyrm. "If I have to choose a successor¡­ I''d rather let that little fish demoness inherit my yellow flood dragon line! As long as she becomes my successor, she will eventually reach the Connate Golden Core level in time. Sword Immortal Qin, with your strength, you are invincible to all beneath the Essence Soul realm! There''s no need to be afraid of him!"


    "Brother Yun, Black Dragon has been planning this for a thousand years. If you were to interfere with his plans, he will definitely bear a grudge against you." Yi Xiao spoke out with worry.


    "Sword Immortal Qin¡­" Yellow Wyrm turned anxious.


    "I will visit you tomorrow," said Qin Yun.


    Yellow Wyrm was immediately delighted. "Great! Thank you, Sword Immortal Qin!"


    Soon the transmission was terminated.


    Yi Xiao said immediately, "Brother Yun, why are you meddling in his affairs? Just let them fight it out. Who cares if he dies?"


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun shook his head. "I have never forgotten Scholar''s death! I previously thought that Dragon Queen was the main culprit. Now, it appears that Black Dragon is the mastermind behind all this."


    "That is one of the nine demons of the Po Cloud Water race! He is an Essence Soul demon that has been cultivating for thousands of years." Yi Xiao could not help but say. "Just like the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, some fiendcelestials have obtained the aid of Other Realm Fiendcelestials to make breakthroughs in strength. They have weak foundations. Perhaps a sword immortal that has stepped into the Dao can defy the constraints of realms and slay them! However, Black Dragon is a great demon with deep foundations. He''s nearly impossible to kill. Even if Elder Sword was revived, he would not be capable of doing so!"


    Qin Yun looked at his wife. "But I can!"


    Yi Xiao was taken aback.

 300 Final Stepping into the Dao?

    Chapter 300: Final Stepping into the Dao?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother Yun?" Yi Xiao found it difficult to believe but she knew her husband''s character. He was definitely confident if he dared make the claim.


    "Stepping into the Dao is difficult. Condensing an Essence Soul is even more difficult," said Qin Yun. "I know all of this."


    It was much more difficult condensing an Essence Soul in his homeworld than in ancient times.


    For instance, ancient times were very similar to the first world he descended into. In that first world, all he needed was to grasp the Heavenly Dao''s intent realm! With external help, he could easily enter the first Firmament of the Godfiend realm. Back when Qin Yun first stepped into the Dao, his Dao domain already spanned ten kilometers. With all the treasures in Fire Phoenix Nest, he eventually reached the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm!


    But in Qin Yun''s homeworld?


    Ordinary existences that had stepped into the Dao had a Dao domain of about twenty-five hundred meters. Unless they encountered some fantastic opportunity, there was almost no way to condense an Essence Soul.


    The first Firmament of the Essence Soul realm¡­ typically required a Dao domain that spanned five to ten kilometers! In contrast, a Dao domain that spanned ten kilometers in ancient times allowed one to reach the third Firmament of the Godfiend realm. The differences were evident! Furthermore, the various Dharma spells, Dharma treasures, and Physical Establishing Sage¡­ made the Essence Soul experts in Qin Yun''s homeworld a lot more terrifying.


    They were much stronger compared to people like Fiendlord Xiahou Zhen. In the second world that Qin Yun descended into, there were no Dharma treasures or Dharma spells! The combat strength of warriors from that world was naturally much weaker.


    "Compared to the other two worlds, my homeworld''s Essence Soul realm is what is truly impressive," thought Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun''s Dao domain spanned fifteen kilometers! In his homeworld, as long as he could create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation, he would definitely be able to reach the second Firmament of the Essence Soul realm!


    His purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers were in no way inferior to Black Dragon''s!


    "I learned many things about the Essence Soul realm from my Divine Firmament Chapter," said Yi Xiao. "Later on, I learned from Myriad Temple that Po Cloud Lake''s Black Dragon reached the first Firmament of the Essence Soul realm through his own efforts alone. Furthermore, he has long reached the peak of the first Firmament! Legend says that he cultivates in a Demonic Dragon True Body Dharmic formulation. He has also gathered all sorts of mystical items to cultivate a powerful Dharma spell¡ªAnnihilation Devouring Toxic Flame. He can spew a mouthful of Annihilation Devouring Toxic Flame that even most Essence Soul experts would not be able to withstand. They would have to dodge and flee for their lives."


    Yi Xiao was concerned for her husband as she explained all she knew about Black Dragon.


    "Don''t worry. In terms of realms, I''m higher than him," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Brother Yun, what realm have you reached?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask.


    "A Dao domain that spans fifteen kilometers." Qin Yun told her matter-of-factly.


    Yi Xiao''s eyes widened. "F¡­ fifteen kilometers¡­"


    "I am going to be the person who creates an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage within five hundred years," said Qin Yun with a chuckle. "How can I do that if my realm is lacking?"


    Yi Xiao nodded immediately.


    Upon hearing ''Dao domain that spans fifteen kilometers,'' she was no longer worried.


    "You have truly revitalized and transformed yourself after dreaming a hundred years," praised Yi Xiao.


    "However, there are some flaws," replied Qin Yun.


    "Flaws?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. "During the hundred years dream, I stepped into the Dao twice! And now that I have returned to my homeworld, I believe I need to step into the Dao a third time."


    After he returned to his homeworld, Qin Yun gradually came to understand one important thing.


    His first two Sword Dao had were critically flawed.


    The first Sword Dao was overly crude! It had too much bloodlust in it! It was overly frenetic!


    The second Sword Dao was extremely intricate and perfect. It had drawn on the cumulative knowledge from generations of that world. In terms of intricacy, their wisdom far exceeded that of Qin Yun''s homeworld! However, the problem was that it was too ''detached!''


    As his mind was as still as water or like an ice mirror when he descended into the second world, it made the Sword Dao he eventually created there overly cold and detached. It made it so that he pursued perfection and aimed for total control over his surroundings. In Qin Yun''s final battle with Xiahou Zhen, Xiahou Zhen was completely under his control.


    When he returned to his homeworld after the dream of a hundred years ended, rich emotions boiled in his body. When Qin Yun studied his Sword Dao again, he found flaws.


    In the past, what was he best at?


    He was best at fusing his emotions into his attacks.


    For example, there were Bright Moon Over River, Dual Flight, and Samsara. They were moves that ran rich with his emotions.


    But when he stepped into the Dao a second time, his Sword Dao was indeed perfect but it lacked emotion.


    "Without intense emotions, the Sword Dao loses its soul." Qin Yun came to understand this point. "This will be the third time I''m stepping into the Dao. It will also be my final one."


    Qin Yun''s accomplishments in Sword Dao had already reached an inconceivable state. Throughout the history of his homeworld, perhaps only the two sword immortals who managed to cultivate their Intrinsic Flying Swords to the transcendent-grade was comparable to him. He naturally diagnosed his problems quickly. He chose to step into the Dao again without any hesitation.


    It would be relatively faster this time.


    As his foundations were already perfect, all he needed was to inject emotions into it. Having had the experience of creating many moves like Bright Moon Over River, Dual Flight, and Samsara, Qin Yun already had a general idea of what to do.


    "Brother Yun, are you stepping into the Dao a third time?" Yi Xiao was astonished. "You stepped into the Dao twice during your dream?"


    "Yea." Qin Yun smiled. "After I step into the Dao this time, it will be the perfect Sword Dao foundation for me."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    Her husband was said by some to be the best sword immortal in the world before his hundred years dream, but he was only invincible among mortals!


    Her husband after the dream of a hundred years was now more dazzling than before. In a few more years, he might even surpass every sword immortal in history!


    "He has to first surpass all the previous sword immortals. Only then can he create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage." Yi Xiao looked forward to that day.


    "Great oaks from little acorns grow. I shall take it step by step," said Qin Yun. "Make the preparations. We will be visiting Xiao Shuang in a while."


    ¡­


    Swallow Phoenix Brothel was still the best brothel in Grand Dominance County City, with many extremely famous renowned courtesans. Lady Chen Shuang''s return caused a stir after she had spent eleven years away. She was welcomed by many wealthy figures.


    But there were also many people who wagged their tongues behind her back. "It''s been eleven years. Lady Chen Shuang is already past the age of thirty. She didn''t retire to lead a good life, and instead continues to sell her charms. She''s probably short on money."


    "She has not revealed her face. I think she has turned ugly and cannot afford to be seen."


    Despite the gossip, Lady Chen Shuang did not reveal herself after returning. Just her pipa tunes were enough to astound every customer that came in. It quickly caused a stir in Jiang Prefecture that resulted in many wealthy guests rushing over. It was evident how impressive her pipa skills were. In Yi Xiao''s words, she had infused her cultivation arts into her pipa. Even an inherited-teachings disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter like her could not help but tear up. Therefore, how could ordinary mortals resist it?


    The guests felt like they were immersed in another life simply from listening to her pipa melodies.


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    In Swallow Phoenix Brothel''s backyard, Qin Yun gently knocked on the door. Yi Xiao was with him.


    A female attendant opened the door.


    "Who are you?" asked the female attendant.


    "Brother Yun!"


    A delighted and excited cry interjected from inside the yard. It sounded pleasing to the ear, like a melodious tune.


    Qin Yun caught wind of a flowery fragrance in the garden and instantly saw a blue-dressed woman who had stood up in pleasant surprise down the corridor. "Brother Yun, Sister Yi. Quickly come in." As she spoke, she quickly came over to welcome them.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao entered the yard together.


    The female attendant closed the door.


    "Brother Yun." Chen Shuang''s eyes sparkled. This was the happiest day she had over the past eleven years. She had suffered tremendously before she was given permission to return to Grand Dominance.


    "Not bad." Qin Yun looked at her and nodded. "From the looks of it, you have reached the Connate realm. Impressive."


    Chen Shuang gestured gently, sending her female attendant away.


    "I became an Earth Magus not long ago, giving me the right to leave the sect." Chen Shuang did not lie to Qin Yun at all.


    "Magistress Mountain?" Qin Yun nodded gently. "The magus lineage is indeed very different from my Daoist lineage. Were you able to cultivate to the Earth Magus realm so quickly because you have become a Magus Maiden? And I imagine you''re probably ranked among the top three Magus Maidens?"


    Chen Shuang smiled with a nod. "That''s right, I''m Magistress Mountain''s best Magus Maiden at present."


    Qin Yun could sense it too. As she became accomplished in her cultivation, Chen Shuang looked even prettier. Her disposition and charm were most unique! All the Magus Maidens of Magistress Mountain were charming women. And Chen Shuang was the cream of the crop.


    "Many people have rushed here from afar just to listen to your pipa melodies," said Yi Xiao. "Now that you say it, they would probably feel that they have lucked out to be able to enjoy the melodies of the best Magus Maiden of Magistress Mountain."


    "This is also a form of cultivation," explained Chen Shuang. "The cultivation of my magus lineage encourages me not to stay aloof from the mortal world, but to fully embrace it."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    In the first world he descended into, Cailan was a Magus Maiden. In that world, his mother, Qiyu was also a Magus Maiden.


    "Unfortunately, the number of cultivators in my magus lineage is thinning," said Chen Shuang with a sigh. However, she quickly changed the topic. "Let''s not talk about this. Brother Yun, Sister Yi, quickly come in and have a seat. Let''s have a good chat."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s mood improved after meeting Chen Shuang. However, there was nothing he could do to help the magus lineage out of its present state. After all, it was a result of the environmental transformations of the world. It made it increasingly difficult to inherit the magus lineage. Therefore, the magus lineage would try their best to attract anyone they felt would make a suitable disciple.


    That night, in Qin Manor.


    "Xiaoxiao, go ahead and head to bed. I will be entering seclusion for a night. I''ll set off for Yellow Wyrm Lake tomorrow," said Qin Yun.


    "Seclusion for a night?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has been at the limit of the second-grade for too much time. My Sword Dao is long capable of pushing my Intrinsic Flying Sword to the first grade. I plan on doing that tonight! With a first-grade flying sword¡­I will be able to produce strength that matches a Numinous treasure. I naturally need to prepare as much as possible for my trip to Yellow Wyrm Lake."

 301 Rousing Tigers Against Wolves

    Chapter 301: Rousing Tigers Against Wolves


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword easily broke through to the first-grade. Even the materials he needed to feed to it were fewer than he had originally expected. Clearly, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was much stronger than other ordinary sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao!


    Early the next morning.


    "Uncle Qin." A graceful woman stood in front of Qin Yun. Once upon a time she was the little fish demoness, Fu Sizhuo. Back then, Flood Dragon King had given her cultivation Dharmic formulations which were extremely suitable for yellow flood dragon descendants. Using those, Fu Sizhuo reached the Connate False Core realm just last year.


    "Sizhuo, are you aware of the current situation in Yellow Wyrm Lake?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Auntie told me everything in detail yesterday. Uncle Qin, I will leave it all to you," replied Fu Sizhuo obediently. Over the past seven years, she had led a peaceful and happy life. She had obtained a well-rounded education including the zither, chess, and calligraphy.


    "Alright. Leave everything to me. There''s no need for you to worry." Qin Yun nodded before he looked at Yi Xiao. "Xiaoxiao, Sizhou and I will be setting off."


    "Be careful. After all, Black Dragon is involved in this matter. Besides that, it''s hard to tell what Yellow Wyrm will do before he dies," warned Yi Xiao.


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun nodded.


    Following that, he left with Fu Sizhuo.


    Sou!


    The two transformed into a stream of light that tore through the sky, heading straight for the southern Qian Prefecture.


    "Whoosh."


    As he flew, Qin Yun could not help but look to the west. He thought to himself, "I was planning on visiting the Ancient Skydragon Palace as soon as my strength was consolidated. Whatever, I have already left an imprint on my secret entrance to the Ancient Skydragon Palace. No one else has touched it either. Once I have resolved the matters regarding Yellow Wyrm Lake and take my final step into the Dao¡­ I will be able to explore the Ancient Skydragon Palace again."


    The Ancient Skydragon Palace had danger at every turn. And it only became more dangerous the deeper he went.


    Despite being considered quite capable even among many Essence Soul realm experts with his present strength, Qin Yun did not want to take the matter lightly.


    ¡­


    Yellow Wyrm Lake was the largest lake in Qian Prefecture. It spanned five hundred kilometers and was covered in a perpetual mist. Many generations of Water race lived there, and they were the most powerful entities in all of Qian Prefecture.


    Even Qin Yun was unable to see the ends of the lake. It seemed as massive as the ocean!


    "It''s no wonder that Other Realm Yellow Wyrm decided to settle down here," thought Qin Yun. "After all, this place is huge. But it''s also rather inconspicuous. If this were a bigger lake like Po Cloud Lake or Nine Caves Lake¡­ perhaps the secret of the yellow flood dragons would have long been exposed."


    "Yellow Wyrm Lake." Fu Sizhuo looked at the lake with a conflicted look in her eyes.


    "Let''s go."


    With a thought, Qin Yun locked onto the Flood Dragon Palace that was located deep in the lake. He led Fu Sizhuo as they flew for hundreds of kilometers before reaching the lake''s bottom.


    A few kilometers from Yellow Wyrm Lake''s Flood Dragon Palace, there was a newly constructed underwater cave that was rather spartan.


    There were two demons living in the underwater cave.


    One of them was Flood Dragon Palace''s eldest prince, Yellow Surge. The other demon was a black-robed elder with a dragon''s head. He was the famous Essence Soul demon¡ªPalatial Lord Black Dragon! Essence Soul figures were very rare in the world, with even many top cultivation sects lacking one. Just having one Essence Soul demon meant that a sect''s heritage was way more profound than other top sects. They would also wield terrifying power.


    "Sigh." Yellow Surge was feeling uneasy inside the cave.


    "Oh?" The dragon-headed elder opened his wrathful eyes. "Hmph. Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun? You, as a famous Connate Golden Core sword immortal, instead of spending time doing your philanthropic acts of ridding evil, are actually involving yourself in my matters?"


    "Qin Yun?" The young Yellow Surge could not help but ask. "What about him?"


    "He has brought that little fish demoness to Flood Dragon Palace." The elder''s eyes were filled with rage.


    "Little fish demoness?" Yellow Surge could not help but comment. "Mother previously ordered for that bastard child to be killed but she ended up escaping. It even caused Sword Immortal Qin to be involved. From what I''ve heard, that little fish demoness has been staying in Grand Dominance all this time!"


    "Yes."


    The elder nodded. "This Qin Yun is said to be a sword immortal that has stepped into the Dao. However, his Sword Dao is apparently only ordinary. It is very difficult for him to kill figures at the Paramount realm. However, he can be considered the best sword immortal among mortals! I have long condensed my Essence Soul and as such am limited by the heavenly rules. They prevent me from killing him. If not for that¡­hmph! A mere sword immortal that has just stepped into the Dao would easily be burned to nothing when I spew my toxic flames that span hundreds of thousands of feet."


    Despite being capable of killing Qin Yun easily, he was limited by the heavenly rules. All he could do was watch! Black Dragon felt rather vexed as a result.


    "I have avoided him as much as I could but he has still come," said Black Dragon angrily. "He even brought that little fish demoness. She too has the yellow flood dragon bloodline and stands a chance of inheriting the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven."


    "It''s not that easy to inherit the Grotto-heaven. One has to reach the Connate Golden Core level to be the true inheritor of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven and the true monarch of the yellow flood dragon line," Yellow Surge said. "I have half the token with me. Once that father of mine opens the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven, I will be able to detect it instantly and determine its precise location."


    "Yes." Black Dragon nodded.


    "Once it''s open, we can storm in immediately," said Black Dragon. "That Qin Yun is mortal. Hmph, I can''t kill him but holding him back and trapping him for a while¡­ won''t incur much karma."


    Just an exchange of blows had limited karma implications.


    ******


    Flood Dragon Palace ruled over the entire Yellow Wyrm Lake. It was a rather opulent structure with many inner and outer palatial compounds.


    Hundreds of thousands of Water race soldiers patrolled the Flood Dragon Palace''s periphery. It made it so that Flood Dragon Palace covered an area that spanned fifty kilometers!


    "Halt!" Flood Dragon Palace had tight security. A shrimp and crab soldier quickly appeared to stop them.


    "Tell your king that Qin Yun is here," said Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" The shrimp soldier widened his already large eyes. He said immediately, "His Majesty has already instructed me to lead the way for Sword Immortal Qin." At the same time, the other soldiers standing nearby rushed in to report the matter.


    Qin Yun nodded as he entered with Fu Sizhuo.


    "That psyche fluctuation from before was rather powerful. It must have been Palatial Lord Black Dragon," thought Qin Yun. Black Dragon and Yellow Wyrm Lake were nearly at each other''s throats. Flood Dragon King''s days were numbered after being poisoned. As such, Black Dragon would definitely be close by, watching in secret. After all, he had to ensure that his plan which had spanned a thousand years would not end up failing. How could he allow any possibility of that happening?


    After entering Flood Dragon Palace, Qin Yun sensed a massive array formation that naturally blocked all forms of psyche probes.


    "This array formation is rather powerful." Qin Yun thought. "As expected of the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm. His resources are quite vast."


    Qin Yun proceeded through the palace and quickly, Flood Dragon King came out personally to welcome him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin!" Flood Dragon King welcomed him excitedly. He bowed reverentially. "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m so grateful that you can grace me with your presence. Sizhuo, long time no see."


    From beside Qin Yun, Fu Sizhuo looked at Flood Dragon King with a rather cold gaze.


    She really did not like Flood Dragon King at all.


    "Haha, quickly follow me." Flood Dragon King tried not to mind her as he quickly led the way.


    ¡­


    All the subordinates were dismissed from a hall in the middle of Flood Dragon Palace, leaving only Flood Dragon King, Qin Yun, and Fu Sizhuo.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I wasn''t certain if you would really come so I did not tell you the secret of my yellow flood dragon line before. Don''t blame a knave like me," said Flood Dragon King as he looked at Qin Yun.


    "Please tell me." Qin Yun nodded.


    "My ancestor built a Grotto-heaven in this lake long ago," explained Flood Dragon King. "The Grotto-heaven hides away many secrets of my yellow flood dragon line. My ancestor also left many treasures in there."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He was rather interested in the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm.


    "I am currently in control of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. If I don''t open it, no one can find it," said Flood Dragon King with a sigh. "However, my days are numbered. Once I''m dead, the Grotto-heaven will be ownerless. That ingrate son of mine will easily be able to use the half token he possesses and his yellow flood dragon bloodline to enter it."


    "This is the remaining half token." Flood Dragon King took out a half token and handed it to Fu Sizhuo. "Sizhuo, take it."


    Fu Sizhuo looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun nodded before Fu Sizhuo took it and put it away.


    "This is half the token? As Flood Dragon King, why did you give away the other half of the token?" asked Qin Yun.


    "This is a rule that my yellow flood dragon tradition dictates. In the event of a Flood Dragon King''s sudden death, the rule ensures that his descendants will still be able to enter the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven," said Flood Dragon King with a sigh. "In the past, I was cajoled by Dragon Queen into doing so. Besides, I loved my eldest son. He was my son after all! I naturally felt at ease handing him half the token."


    "Sizhuo."


    Flood Dragon King looked at Fu Sizhuo. "Today, I will find an opportunity to open the Grotto-heaven. I''ll send both you and Sword Immortal Qin in. I will also give you and Sword Immortal Qin detailed information regarding the Grotto-heaven. Try to obtain the inheritance within. Take away as much as you can! Anything you can''t take, leave...it''s not like anything can be done at the moment."


    Qin Yun nodded. Take the treasures away?


    "Also, Sizhuo, you should cultivate as fast as possible. You have to reach the Connate Golden Core faster than that ingrate son of mine. Only then will you become the true owner of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. You will then also be the true ruler of Yellow Wyrm Lake!" said Flood Dragon King.


    Fu Sizhuo frowned and said, "Flood Dragon King, I swore in front of my father''s tomb that I will be a daughter of the Fu family! In the future, I will pass down the Fu family''s name! I will not be the ruler of Yellow Wyrm Lake."


    "You¡­" Flood Dragon King felt a little disgruntled.


    "I came here because of Uncle Qin; if not for his request, I wouldn''t have even come," said Fu Sizhuo coldly.


    Qin Yun stood to the side and remained silent.


    "Sigh." Flood Dragon King sighed. "Whatever. Let''s leave it to fate. If there''s a chance, you can get any children you have to inherit my yellow flood dragon line! If the yellow flood dragon line were to end here, whatever! I no longer hold any hopes on the matter anyway. I don''t care, as long as that Black Dragon doesn''t profit from any of this."


    Fu Sizhuo did not say a word when she heard that.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, please stay in my palace for the time being. I will find a suitable chance to send the both of you in as soon as possible. As for a more detailed explanation of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven, I will pass it to you as soon as possible," said Flood Dragon King.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    After settling in Qin Yun and Fu Sizhuo, Flood Dragon King sat alone in the hall with a cold expression. "Sword Immortal Qin might be powerful, but he is ultimately a mortal. He won''t be able to defeat an old demon at the Essence Soul realm."


    He immediately flipped his voice transmission token and began contacting someone.


    Buzz.


    Soon, a projection appeared at his side. It was a handsome man holding a fan.


    "Greetings Fiend Sovereign." Flood Dragon King quickly stood up and bowed reverentially in an extremely humble manner.


    The person in front of him was Fiend Sovereign Jadeface, one of the five fiendcelestials of Cloudfiend Mountain! Since Yellow Wyrm Lake was located in the Qian Prefecture, it naturally had some connections with Cloudfiend Mountain.


    "Yellow Wyrm, what''s the matter?" asked the handsome man.


    "I naturally want to bring something to your attention that would be beneficial to you," said Flood Dragon King with a smile. "I do not dare to take this opportunity all for myself, nor do I have confidence that I can monopolize it. That''s why I thought of you, Fiend Sovereign."


    "Oh?" The handsome man smiled. He did not believe that Yellow Wyrm was daring enough to lie to him!

 302 Entering the Grotto-heaven

    Chapter 302: Entering the Grotto-heaven


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The various entities of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons had their areas of influence clearly demarcated. The Jiang and Qian Prefectures were within Cloudfiend Mountain''s jurisdiction. Both prefectures came under the collective label of Jiangnan, which was prosperous and wealthy. For Cloudfiend Mountain to be in control of this area¡­ it proved how powerful Cloudfiend Mountain was! Although Cloudfiend Mountain''s rise to prominence happened later compared to other members of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons¡ªits history only being a few thousand years¡ªit was extremely powerful. It was above average within the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons.


    It was all because of Cloudfiend Mountain Lord!


    When Cloudfiend Mountain Lord established the Cloudfiend Mountain line in his youth, he had fought with the leader of the Daoist movement, Perfected Scenic Yang. Although he was defeated and ended up fleeing, it still showed that he was at the same level as Perfected Scenic Yang. Furthermore, his cultivation level became even more unfathomable after cultivating for several thousand years.


    "A small place like Yellow Wyrm Lake needs to take my Cloudfiend Mountain into account in order to survive in the Qian Prefecture. He would not dare lie to me." The handsome man was extremely confident.


    It would have been true under normal circumstances.


    If one dared to make a fool out of Jadeface, or place him in peril, Cloudfiend Mountain''s rage would probably sever the Yellow Wyrm Lake lineage.


    ¡­


    A simple lie and promise of immense benefits easily enticed Jadeface into agreeing to come.


    After the transmission was cut.


    "Hmph, I may have been afraid of your Cloudfiend Mountain in the past. But now that I''m about to die and my lineage is in danger of being severed, is there anything holding me back?" thought Flood Dragon King. "That little fish demoness that I can pin my hopes on insists on being a daughter of the Fu family and refuses to continue my lineage. Thankfully, Sword Immortal Qin will leave with a portion of my lineage''s treasures. Perhaps a descendant of that little fish demoness will continue the yellow flood dragon lineage. But even so, that will be something for the distant future. I can''t be bothered anyway, even if my family line is to be truly severed."


    "Black Demon King¡­ do you think that I''m powerless against you just because you are one of the Po Cloud Lake Nine Demons? Most people might be afraid of you but Cloudfiend Mountain isn''t." Flood Dragon King''s eyes were filled with hate.


    Po Cloud Lake was the world''s largest lake.


    It had six Essence Soul realm demons in it! There were three Essence Soul realm demons in the surrounding bodies of water around Po Cloud Lake as well. These nine Water race demons refused to submit to the Dragon race. They chose to leave the ocean and declare themselves as hegemons of lakes and rivers!


    There might be internal strife among them, but they appeared as a united front against external enemies. The Po Cloud Lake Nine Demon alliance was rather famous in the world. They could even match the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons in certain ways!


    "Sword Immortal Qin can only take a portion of the treasures away. Most of it can''t be removed." Flood Dragon King was very aware of this point. As his ancestor was afraid that his descendants would squander the treasures, many of the treasures could be used by descendants but not be taken out of the Grotto-heaven.


    "Fiend Sovereign Jadeface will definitely not back down when he sees those treasures."


    "You two can fight it out and kill each other."


    "Hehehe¡­"


    Flood Dragon King scoffed. "With Fiend Sovereign Jadeface''s strength and Cloudfiend Mountain backing him, he will definitely not back down till he gets what he wants."


    "When the time comes, regardless of who wins, I get what I want. Cloudfiend Mountain will definitely not spare Black Dragon if Fiend Sovereign Jadeface were to die."


    Flood Dragon King''s eyes were filled with madness.


    He treated Jadeface entirely as a pawn.


    Jadeface had been careless. As the yellow flood dragon lineage had been submissive all this while, Jadeface had his guard down. Of course, the root of the problem was that existences at the Essence Soul realm treated mortals as ants! They did not engage in wanton killing only because of the heavenly rules. Even so, they thought nothing of mortals.


    But when mortals were truly cornered and had nothing holding them back, they could risk their lives to fight a hysterical battle!


    ******


    Cloudfiend Mountain, above a floating cloud.


    The handsome man left his abode in a good mood.


    "Fiend Sovereign." A black-robed man with blood-colored brows flew over and bowed respectfully.


    "Nine Mountain." The handsome man nodded with a smile. "Your perception has increased greatly after you abandoned your original mountain body and exchanged it for a body of flesh. It''s good that you have already reached the Paramount realm."


    "I''m only ordinary in strength at the Paramount realm. I''m still inferior to that Qin Yun," said Nine Mountain. His new body was a Sanguine Sea Fiend Embryo. It made his perception much higher than it was in his mountain body, matching even that of humans.


    "There''s no need to bother with a mere Qin Yun. He is only a mortal sword immortal. He has at most five hundred years to live," said the man with a disdainful smile. "Once those five hundred years are up, he will naturally die from age. As for you, your lifespan as a demon will be longer than his. When he dies of age, you will still be living a carefree life. You could even condense an Essence Soul and have eternal life."


    "I will definitely focus on cultivation so as to step into the Dao and condense an Essence Soul," said Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    The handsome man nodded and responded tersely.


    He could not be bothered with typical mortals.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord was the fiendish demon with the greatest potential in Cloudfiend Mountain. He was already at the Paramount realm and once he stepped into the Dao, there was a good chance of him condensing an Essence Soul. The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons had Other Realm Fiendcelestials backing them. Even if one''s Dao was lacking, an Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s strength could still aid one in condensing an Essence Soul.


    "Sou!"


    The handsome man transformed into a stream of light as he flew towards Yellow Wyrm Lake.


    He flew for about ten minutes before he saw the vast lake.


    "Hehe, obtaining treasures on a trip out." The handsome man was in an extremely good mood. Soon, he flew into the lake and headed straight for Flood Dragon Palace.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in Flood Dragon Palace, Qin Yun and Fu Sizhuo were inside a hall.


    "I see." Qin Yun held his Inspect Heavenly Token and memorized the information given to him by Flood Dragon King.


    "The Other Realm Yellow Wyrm was very strong according to the records," thought Qin Yun. It was not surprising either. Even a thousand-year-old family clan that was established by a human Essence Soul expert found it difficult to produce another Essence Soul realm expert despite generations of procreation.


    It was the same with the yellow flood dragon lineage.


    However, it was already very impressive that all reigning Flood Dragon Kings were able to easily reach the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, Sizhuo. I''ll be sending both of you into the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven now." Flood Dragon King''s voice suddenly resounded inside the hall.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun''s Dao domain immediately sensed a massive space appear. His Dao domain quickly permeated it and discovered a massive object inside.


    "I see. The Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven shares the same space as the Flood Dragon Palace. They are just in different spatial dimensions." Qin Yun was astonished by this revelation. "That''s quite an impressive design."


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun and Fu Sizhuo showed no resistance, and instantly entered the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven.


    It was a massive space that spanned about thirty kilometers. A great distance away in the Grotto-heaven was a massive object. It was a wyrm that was entirely yellow in color. Its winding body that spanned about five kilometers remained slumped on the ground.


    "Sizhuo, let''s go." Qin Yun led Fu Sizhuo and shot forward in a stream of light, heading straight for the flood dragon''s corpse.


    ¡­


    "Greetings Fiend Sovereign." Meanwhile, elsewhere in Flood Dragon Palace, Flood Dragon King personally welcomed the handsome man, Fiend Sovereign Jadeface.


    Jadeface nodded gently. "Where is the place you mentioned? Lead the way. If what you say is true, you will definitely gain my favor."


    "Yes, yes, yes." Flood Dragon King said sycophantically.


    And at that moment.


    Boom!


    A terrifying power forcibly stormed through Flood Dragon Palace''s array formation. Although Flood Dragon Palace had an array formation protecting it, Black Dragon''s strength made it easy for him to force his way in.


    "Grandfather. It''s up ahead." Black Dragon brought Yellow Surge with him. Yellow Surge had instantly found the location of the critical node when Flood Dragon King opened the Grotto-heaven.


    "Good." Black Dragon was secretly surveying his surroundings and discovered Fiend Sovereign Jadeface''s presence.


    However, this was a plan that had been in motion for a thousand years. How could he abandon it at such a critical moment?


    "Oh?" Jadeface turned his head with a frown and saw Black Dragon. "Black Dragon, you¡­"


    "Boom!"


    Flood Dragon King opened the Grotto-heaven once again! He did his best to make it enticing for Black Dragon and Jadeface.


    "Let''s go in." Black Dragon instantly sensed the Grotto-heaven and could even ''see'' the massive yellow wyrm''s corpse in the Grotto-heaven. He could not help but feel expectant.


    Whoosh.


    He charged in with Yellow Surge in tow.


    "No good. There has been a news leak!" Flood Dragon King even shouted anxiously.


    "Grotto-heaven. There''s a Grotto-heaven in there¡­" Jadeface also ''saw'' the corpse inside the Grotto-heaven and turned excited. The creation of a Grotto-heaven was a fascinating technique that he admired.


    Jadeface showed no hesitation as he took the opportunity to fly straight in.


    All it took was an instant.


    Black Dragon, Yellow Surge, and Jadeface had all entered.


    Flood Dragon Palace regained its peacefulness.


    "All of them just went in." Flood Dragon King scoffed. "That''s right. How can they not go crazy after seeing my lineage''s Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven?"


    "Fight it out."


    "It''s best if both of you die in there!" thought Flood Dragon King.

 303 Other Realm Yellow Wyrm

    Chapter 303: Other Realm Yellow Wyrm


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven.


    The five-kilometer-long yellow wyrm corpse that was sprawled on the ground had its mouth slightly open. In the form of a stream of light, Qin Yun and Fu Sizhuo flew into the oral orifice. It was as big as a valley.


    "Quickly head for the heart," said Qin Yun. "That is where you can do the Bloodline Baptism."


    Fu Sizhuo slightly nodded, barely hearing what he was saying. She was somewhat shocked when she saw the gigantic teeth that lined the corpse''s gaping jaws. They resembled a continuous line of mountain peaks. The resonance of her shared bloodline with the yellow wyrm made Fu Sizhuo feel a whirlwind of emotions.


    The duo flew further into the wyrm''s corpse as streams of light.


    Although it was a wyrm''s corpse, it was in fact also a gigantic building that spanned five kilometers. There were many twisting passageways inside! One would probably get lost in there if they lacked the necessary information.


    "This flood dragon corpse''s interior forms a domain naturally. It has an extremely strong domain suppression. My Dao domain is completely overpowered by it and cannot be released." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "When two Essence Soul experts have their Dao domains clash, the stronger party will naturally overpower the weaker party, I know this. Still, I never expected a corpse to be capable of overpowering my Dao domain."


    "From the looks of it, this yellow wyrm was very strong in its lifetime."


    "I remember that back at the Ancient Skydragon Palace, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s red-scaled arm formed a domain of its own. I wonder which is stronger, this Other Realm Yellow Wyrm or the Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun was uncertain since he had only come into contact with the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s red-scaled arm and not its main body.


    Soon, they arrived at the heart after traveling through several maze-like passageways.


    The yellow wyrm''s heart was an important area! Only those with the yellow flood dragon bloodline could enter.


    "Quickly enter."


    Qin Yun looked at the massive heart that was about a thousand feet tall. He instructed immediately, "According to the information Flood Dragon King gave me, the Bloodline Baptism takes a hundred days. Rest easy in there for a hundred days."


    "Alright." Fu Sizhuo nodded obediently. Immediately, she leaped towards the heart as it automatically opened a path for her. The passage rapidly closed after she entered.


    "Truly impressive."


    Qin Yun marveled upon seeing this. "The information also said that this Other Realm Yellow Wyrm was able to survive after reaching this world, but only barely. He was suppressed by the world in every aspect. Later on, he had to abandon this body and possess a new one. This body that he had cultivated for an excessive period of time was eventually refined into a heritage land for the yellow flood dragon lineage."


    For instance, the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm had refurbished his own heart into a chamber for the Bloodline Baptism.


    One had to know that as generations procreated, their bloodlines would thin. Descendants ended up very different from their ancestors. That was the reason why the Dragon race only permitted pure-blooded dragons to marry each other! Only then would their offspring be pure-blooded dragons. As for those with mixed blood, they only had average potentials.


    Every generation''s Flood Dragon King of the yellow flood dragon lineage would experience a purification of their bloodline through a baptism. The outcome made them pure-blooded.


    His children would have rather pure bloodlines. Thus, another baptism would result in them becoming pure-blooded as well.


    However, if too many generations passed their bloodlines would get too thin. Baptism would be useless!


    Therefore, the Dragon Queen had only hunted down the Flood Dragon King''s illegitimate children.


    "This heart was refined to allow for a Bloodline Baptism. However, one must have a rather pure bloodline to begin with." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Besides, once the Heaven and Earth powers absorbed by the heart are expended, the baptism will no longer be possible. They can only have a baptism two to three times every millennia."


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun watched for a moment, he quickly left the area.


    Fu Sizhuo was very safe inside the heart. Such an important area was heavily protected. Even Qin Yun was unable to damage it.


    "Oh?"


    Suddenly, he sensed a terrifying shockwave coming from outside. Qin Yun quickly went to the yellow wyrm corpse''s mouth and looked out.


    At a glance, he saw Black Dragon fighting with a handsome man about ten kilometers away.


    "Palatial Lord Black Dragon. And is that Cloudfiend Mountain''s Fiend Sovereign Jadeface beside him?" Qin Yun instantly recognized both parties. He had long gathered all available information on the world''s Essence Soul experts. He was naturally capable of identifying Jadeface at a glance.


    Meanwhile, far away.


    Black Dragon was escorting Yellow Surge. Boundless water waves emanated from him and were so immense they seemed to inundate the world. They enveloped the surrounding five kilometers and surged towards the distant Jadeface.


    In response, the feather fan that Jadeface was holding sent out feathers. Thousands of dense feathers surrounded him, easily holding back the water wave.


    "Black Dragon! This Grotto-heaven was given to me by Flood Dragon King." Jadeface said with a scoff. "It''s obvious just by looking at that yellow wyrm corpse. It''s a land of the yellow flood dragon lineage. Since he has given it to me, it''s rightfully mine. Are you trying to wrestle it from me?"


    "This grandson of mine is a descendant of the yellow flood dragon bloodline. This place naturally belongs to my grandson." Black Dragon''s voice was deep. "Jadeface, it''s best you do not interfere in this matter. Once this is over and done with, I will send you two first-grade Dharma treasures as a token of appreciation. What do you think about that?"


    "That is in no way good!"


    Jadeface scoffed. "Black Dragon, do you think I''m blind? Just that yellow wyrm corpse alone has such a terrifying aura. Its price is in no way inferior to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, much less everything else in here! Besides, this Grotto-heaven itself is priceless. All of this is mine! Black Dragon, are you really going to make my Cloudfiend Mountain your enemy?"


    "Hmph, my Po Cloud Lake has never been afraid of your Cloudfiend Mountain!" said Black Dragon angrily.


    "Is that so?" Jadeface sneered as his eyes shimmered with killing intent.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Instantly, numerous feathers shot out from the fan in his hand. Each of them was extremely sharp. More than ten thousand feathers surged at Black Dragon.


    These feathers even formed an array formation, easily tearing through the surging waves as they headed straight for Black Dragon.


    "Darn it." Black Dragon was stumped.


    Although he had the Po Cloud Lake backing him, the Po Cloud Lake Nine Demons was only an alliance. Furthermore, Cloudfiend Mountain was overly tyrannical!


    However, Black Dragon refused to give up after he had been planning this for a thousand years.


    "This world forms a Grotto-heaven by itself and is completely isolated from the external world. There''s no way to communicate with the outside. If I were to kill him, Cloudfiend Mountain might never find out." Black Dragon''s eyes turned red. The path of cultivation was always about forging ahead without hesitation or fear. At times, one had to do the hardest thing.


    "Roar¡ª!"


    He opened his mouth wide.


    Immediately, blackish-purple flames poured out of his mouth and came forward in an extremely oppressive manner. The feathers retreated after being burned but they quickly gathered together, forming a gigantic flower. It completely surrounded the blackish-purple flame in the middle, as well as Black Dragon and Yellow Surge.


    "Enclose." Jadeface gently waved his feather fan.


    The massive petals of the gigantic flower that was made up of more than a hundred thousand feathers began to close.


    "My Annihilation Devouring Toxic Flame is actually unable to tear through it?" Black Dragon''s expression changed when he saw what had happened. Immediately, his body phased, transforming into a twirling gargantuan black dragon.


    "Bam!"


    The black dragon''s winding tail lashed out. Although thousands feathers were constantly lacerating his body, the dragon''s tail was able to strike the gigantic flower, causing it to explode.


    "Oh? His true form as a demonic dragon has been cultivated to such a state?" Jadeface was somewhat astonished. "It will be difficult to kill him when he has such a strong body."


    "Let''s go."


    As Jadeface controlled the feathers to trap Black Dragon, he transformed into a stream of light that flew towards the yellow wyrm corpse.


    "What?" Black Dragon turned anxious when he saw Jadeface rush towards the yellow wyrm corpse ahead of him.


    "Let''s go!" The gigantic black dragon swept Yellow Surge into his mouth and forcibly charged out of the feather enclosure.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Although the feathers impeded him, Black Dragon was able to tear through them.


    "Hmph!"


    When Jadeface landed in the yellow wyrm corpse''s mouth, he waved his feather fan, commanding the numerous feathers to rapidly fly back to him. The Dharma treasure''s flying speed was much faster than Black Dragon. Soon, they returned to the fan.


    "This corpse has indeed been refined before. Its interior is like a maze. It suppresses Dao domains, preventing them from being used." Jadeface frowned when he surveyed his surroundings. "All I can do is probe it area by area."


    His figure instantly flashed as he entered to explore the area.


    Following closely behind, Black Dragon arrived with Yellow Surge in tow.


    "Quickly head for the heart," said Yellow Surge immediately. "I heard Father mention that the Bloodline Baptism happens in the heart."


    "It''s like a maze up ahead. Do you know the way?" Black Dragon frowned.


    Yellow Surge was taken aback as he shook his head. "Father is the only person who has detailed information on the Grotto-heaven."


    "Let''s enter then." Black Dragon had no choice but to slowly probe the area.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun had seen the two Essence Soul experts fight from a distance away. After he had a rough sense of their strength, he continued moving the treasures away! Flood Dragon King had given him detailed information and asked that he take all the removable treasures away.

 304 Encounter

    Chapter 304: Encounter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sou!


    Qin Yun did not stop flying as he passed through the ever-winding and constantly changing passageways. Finally, he arrived at the door of a rather hidden hall that was more than a hundred feet tall.


    "I''m here." Qin Yun smiled as he looked at the hall in front of him. It was the treasury. Flood Dragon King had moved all the treasures here ahead of time but was no longer able to remove them as he was under Black Dragon''s constant surveillance.


    "Open." With a gentle wave of his hand, Qin Yun''s Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers easily pushed open the door.


    The hall was filled with a large number of items. There were all sorts of treasured herbs, pills, and cultivation manuals.


    "By moving all the treasures here ahead of time, Flood Dragon King has saved me quite a bit of effort." Qin Yun took out a Cosmic Bag and immediately opened it.


    All the treasured herbs, pills, and manuals flew over and into the bag.


    "After I arrived in the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven, Black Dragon and Jadeface followed closely behind." As Qin Yun put away the treasures, he pondered over the situation. "Flood Dragon King is the owner of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. For the both of them to enter together like this, it is likely Flood Dragon King''s doing. Is he planning on having them kill each other?"


    "It''s no wonder he asked me to take away as much as I can. He probably had this plan in mind since the beginning. With Jadeface and Black Dragon here, this Grotto-heaven is bound to be exposed."


    Qin Yun knew what would happen after this.


    If either Jadeface or Black Dragon was able to get out with their life, the Grotto-heaven would definitely be exposed.


    If they died in the Grotto-heaven, the Po Cloud Lake Nine Demons alliance or Cloudfiend Mountain would definitely investigate the matter. Careful investigation will lead to them discovering the Grotto-heaven.


    "In terms of realm, Jadeface and Black Dragon are only slightly stronger than Xiahou Zhen," thought Qin Yun. "But when coupled with the Dharma spells and Dharma treasures¡­ their strength is more than ten times that of Xiahou Zhen."


    ¡­


    After safely storing all the treasures in the treasury, Qin Yun continued searching area after area.


    This was because there were other treasures. And just because Flood Dragon King was unable to move them did not mean Qin Yun was unable to do so! He could forcibly move them away. If one was strong enough, even the Yellow Wyrm corpse that had been refined into a building could be completely taken away.


    "This is the chamber that was noted in the intelligence. It is also the only cultivation chamber in the Grotto-heaven."


    Qin Yun entered the chamber, which was about a thousand feet wide and five hundred feet tall. Such an expansive space allowed a flood dragon at the Connate realm to coil.


    "What deep pockets." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up when he looked up. At the top of the chamber, resembling a roof to the firmaments, was a watery-blue crystal. It was about two feet wide.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun quickly flew up and got closer to the blue crystal. He carefully observed it and nodded. "It''s a Cloudwater Stone Soul. I have never heard of such a large one before. Perhaps it was brought here by the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm."


    "Open!"


    He waved his hand.


    Instantly, a flying sword flew out.


    It was Elder Sword''s first-grade flying sword, Seven Kills Sword. It disassembled into seven flying swords and they all began working hard at extracting the crystal.


    Although the wooden beams of the roof were made of a rather precious Purple Jade Nanmu, Qin Yun did not care if he damaged them in order to remove the Cloudwater Stone Soul. After all, the only things that caught his eye in the entire chamber were the Cloudwater Stone Soul and the four Firecloud Columns. The heart of the chamber''s array was comprised of the four Firecloud Columns and the Cloudwater Soul Stone. Their combined cost was worth more than half a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    All the treasures that he had taken from the treasury barely matched the two items here.


    It was evident that the Yellow Wyrm ancestor had fixed the true treasures he had brought from another realm in place on purpose. He wanted his descendants to benefit from them but also aimed to prevent them from being squandered.


    Connate realm demons were incapable of moving the crystal but Qin Yun was considered formidable among Essence Soul realm experts. It was not easy to prevent him from moving anything through force!


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The seven flying swords formed a world by themselves.


    The perfect combination was extremely intricate. In about thirty seconds, there was a light bang as the entire Cloudwater Stone Soul fell out.


    "Over here." Floating in midair, Qin Yun immediately opened his Cosmic Bag, sending the Cloudwater Stone Soul straight into it.


    "Next is the four Firecloud Columns." Qin Yun looked at his surroundings. The four columns propped up the entire chamber. Each of them was fiery red in color and were crystalline like jade. There were fiery fumes within them that gave them a fascinating appearance.


    The seven flying swords flew to one of the Firecloud Columns and began tearing down the fixed array formation in an extremely adept manner.


    They forcibly caused damage!


    The array formation maintained itself through the Heaven and Earth powers for tens of thousands of years. Furthermore, it was a fixed array formation. With a person presiding over it, its strength was naturally limited!


    A few moments later.


    "Rumble~" The three-hundred-and-sixty-foot long Firecloud Column finally collapsed. At the instant it collapsed, Qin Yun immediately used a Cosmic Bag to contain it. This Cosmic Bag was left behind by Elder Sword! It was at present the biggest Cosmic Bag that Qin Yun had. It had a space that spanned a thousand feet.


    ¡­


    Jadeface was probing one area after another. Only sufficiently precious treasures would catch his eyes. He did not think much of the ordinary treasures.


    "Oh? What''s happening up ahead?" Jadeface saw the distorted end of the passageway. He could vaguely make out that a hall had collapsed. "It collapsed?"


    "Sou!"


    Jadeface transformed into a stream of light and, with a flash, he appeared in front of the hall''s door. With a wave of his hand, the door was pushed open.


    He instantly saw a gray-robed youth turn his head to meet him. Seven flying swords were floating beside him.


    "Qin Yun?" Jadeface pricked up his brows but he walked in leisurely. He said, "I never expected you to be in this Grotto-heaven as well."


    After entering, he swept the area with his gaze.


    Jadeface''s expression changed slightly. With his level of discernment, he could naturally tell that the cultivation chamber ought to have four Firecloud Columns! Furthermore, the core of the array at the top had a crevice. There had likely been a treasure embedded in it before.


    "The treasure in the chamber''s roof and two Firecloud Columns have been taken by you, am I right?" Jadeface looked at Qin Yun.


    "They are with me." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Hmph, you sure have good luck." Jadeface gently waved his feathered fan and instructed, "Alright. This place now belongs to me. Quickly scram."


    Qin Yun smiled. "You sure talk big."


    "You have already snatched two of the Firecloud Columns and the treasure at the top of the chamber. I''m being merciful by not taking them back from you," said Jadeface coldly. "As a mere sword immortal, you shouldn''t push your luck."


    Most Essence Soul entities treated mortals like ants.


    They were just unable to squash those ants to death because of the heavenly rules.


    "Merciful? You?" Qin Yun laughed. "Fiend Sovereign Jadeface, would you dare try to snatch it from me if I gave you the chance?"


    Jadeface''s expression immediately turned contorted.


    "Just exchanging blows with me might lead to relatively small karma but if you were to snatch my treasures¡­" Qin Yun paused with a sigh. "Of course treasures like the two Firecloud Columns and the Cloudwater Stone Soul represent immense amounts of karma! Besides, I, Qin Yun, have slain countless fiendish demons. I have accrued immense amounts of merit. If you were to take such great treasures from me, the karma would be severe."


    "Ah, I accidentally revealed the Cloudwater Stone Soul," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Whatever, so what if you know of it? Do you dare snatch it?"


    Jadeface''s eyes turned extremely cold.


    If he were not afraid of karma and the tribulations, he would have long killed Qin Yun to snatch his treasures!


    "Scram!" Jadeface bellowed angrily. "Scram as far as you can. If you don''t, I''ll beat you till you do!"


    "Jadeface, I''m really curious." Qin Yun was in no way enraged. There was no need to be agitated by a fiendcelestial that was about to die. "Fiendish demons are currently at a disadvantage. You are a born and bred entity of this world. Why must you pledge allegiance to Other Realm Fiendcelestials? Why work for them?"


    Jadeface looked at Qin Yun and scoffed. He said, "I heard that you abhor evil? You even hunt down fiendish demons all across the world. Hmph, you might be in the limelight now, but once your five hundred years are up? Your children and descendants¡­ Countless fiendish demons will seek revenge on them! Your Qin family will cease to exist. Your slaying of fiendish demons isn''t helping anyone, and in fact will only bring trouble on your descendants. Aren''t you a foolish one?"


    "Humans have a saying: Every man for himself and the Devil take the hindmost!" Jadeface scoffed. "In my opinion, so what if the world is invaded as long as I lead a good life? So what if billions of other creatures are destroyed?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "So fiendcelestials like yourself have such a thought process? For the sake of your wellbeing, you would rather the world be invaded and billions of living creatures destroyed?"


    Jadeface looked sarcastically at Qin Yun. "Alright. Enough of the crap. Quickly scram."


    He could not be bothered to waste his time on Qin Yun.


    He was in a rush to grab as many treasures as possible.


    "For yourself, you are willing to sacrifice billions of living creatures." Qin Yun nodded. "I''m one of those living beings. I don''t wish to die so I''ll kill you first."


    With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A sword beam shot out from his fingertip.


    Jadeface was still somewhat astonished and reeling in disbelief. A mortal sword immortal thought to kill him? It was the funniest joke he had ever heard! However, at the instant the sword beam shot out from Qin Yun''s fingertip, Jadeface instinctively felt horrified!

 305 Sword Refinement Threading, Scuffing the Void!

    Chapter 305: Sword Refinement Threading, Scuffing the Void!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "No good!" Jadeface''s expression changed drastically as he retreated with his feathered fan in hand. 180,000 feathers flew out, forming a massive flower that swirled around him. The flower was covered in layers of petals, and it was the life-preservation technique Jadeface had.


    Qin Yun naturally knew that Jadeface was powerful.


    Cloudfiend Mountain had five fiendcelestials. Three of them were at the first Firmament of the Essence Soul realm! Jadeface was the strongest among the three and that made him rather famous in the world. He was definitely at the peak of the Essence Soul''s first Firmament! The refinement of his Dharma treasure, Centaurea Fan, was commissioned by Cloudfiend Mountain Lord at great cost. It was refined personally by Golden Royal Palace''s Palatial Lord and it became the treasure that suited Jadeface the best.


    With the Centaurea Fan in hand, Jadeface was extremely capable of protecting himself.


    Therefore¡­


    Despite Qin Yun''s realm being a lot higher than Jadeface''s, he did not hesitate to use his Intrinsic Flying Sword¡ªMisty Rain Sword.


    A first-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword could produce strength that matched a Numinous treasure''s!


    When the sword beam shot out from Qin Yun''s fingertip, space seemed to freeze.


    The chamber that had partially collapsed froze. Even the falling debris were suspended in midair. There was not so much as a light breeze. In response, Jadeface used his Centaurea Fan, causing countless feathers to rapidly form the massive flower to oppose the spatial freezing.


    "Chi!"


    The flying sword beam condensed like a thread, one that looked ordinary but left a distorted trajectory in the void.


    "Sword Refinement Threading, Scuffing the Void?" The color in Jadeface''s face drained.


    "How is it possible!? How is it possible!? He''s a mortal sword immortal. How can he be this powerful?" Jadeface was completely stunned.


    To him, Qin Yun was only a mortal ant! The only reason he didn''t crush it death was the heavenly rules.


    But suddenly, this ant became thousands of times bigger. It was about to crush him to death!


    "Wasn''t it said that it is difficult for him to kill a Paramount realm? He is supposed to be an ordinary sword immortal that has stepped into the Dao. But it looks like all of the intelligence was false. It''s all fake!" Jadeface was aggrieved and horrified.


    Ordinary sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao would only be capable of Infinite Converging Sword when they used their flying swords.


    However, Sword Refinement Threading was on a higher level.


    When the Heaven and Earth powers were cast into a sword flash and condensed into a corporeal beam, the extreme concentration could transform into a thread! Its strength would naturally undergo a qualitative change. This was also known as Sword Refinement Threading. In the history of sword immortals, few sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao were capable of this heaven-defying feat. For example, Elder Sword was capable of it.


    As for Scuffing the Void, that was not only limited to sword immortals. It was used to determine the strength of the attacks of many Essence Soul experts.


    When one''s move was sufficiently horrifying, it would cause space itself to tremble after reaching a particular state. It created fascinating scenes like spatial freezing! Space would distort wherever the move passed through. It formed a distorted scuff in space that was visible to the naked eye. Hence, it was known as Scuffing the Void.


    "Puah!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword manifested itself as a thread but it was still extremely sharp.


    It penetrated the flower''s layers, blasting apart countless feathers.


    "No!" Jadeface was horrified as he wielded his Dharma treasure with all he had.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword penetrated all the feathers just as it lost all its momentum. It was struck away by a smack from Jadeface! He had ultimately cultivated his body and had reached the normal standards of the first Firmament Essence Soul that typical fiendcelestials were capable of in close combat.


    "I sent it flying away?" Jadeface was somewhat baffled. He actually managed to smack the flying sword that could penetrate his Centaurea Fan''s array formation away?


    The frozen void returned to normal.


    The debris from the crumbling chamber continued to fall.


    "This Centaurea Fan Array is indeed good at keeping him alive." With a thought, Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword emitted its might once again, freezing space itself.


    "No good!" This time, Jadeface no longer had the time to gather the feathers that had been sent into disarray to form the flower again. All he did was produce a few layers of flower petals. With grinding noises, the sword flash condensed into a thread and easily penetrated them, tearing through Jadeface''s body.


    Pu!


    This time, Jadeface missed the threadlike beam when he waved his palm. Instead, his body was easily penetrated by the threadlike sword flash.


    Rip! His body was immediately split into two.


    But it held on, with both halves rapidly joining together in a bid to recover.


    "Puah Puah Puah!"


    The threadlike sword flashes were like specters. They carved out a few curved trajectories, penetrating Jadeface''s body, again and again, slicing his Fiendbody apart.


    Jadeface was already reeling in despair and was certain he would die. However, after being sliced by the flying sword numerous times, he realized something. "Strange, his flying sword hurts my body every time but he did not destroy my Essence Soul? Is he trying to capture me alive?"


    He could not afford the time to think on it further.


    "Escape!"


    Sou!


    Jadeface abandoned his physical body as his Essence Soul attempted to fly into the distance. In terms of flying speed, his Essence Soul was indeed superior to his body.


    "Do you think you can escape? Ensnare!" Qin Yun waved his hand, and immediately three black bangles flew out.


    The three bangles flew out with astonishing speed, clearly much faster than Jadeface''s Essence Soul. Furthermore, the bangles naturally became bigger as they flew out. They produced a mighty suction that honed in on the Essence Soul.


    "This is¡­"


    Jadeface''s Essence Soul only felt an oppressive power envelop him, making it extremely difficult for him to use his Essence Soul Dharmic powers. His speed was drastically reduced as he became a lot slower.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The three Cosmic Bangles rapidly descended and lodged onto Jadeface''s Essence Soul. The Essence Soul became discernible, resembling his physical body almost identically. However, it was translucent.


    "What Dharma treasure is this?" Jadeface''s Essence Soul sensed that his Dharmic powers were completely sealed. He could not help but be horrified. "Not only is this Qin Yun''s flying sword terrifying, even this bangle Dharma treasure is terrifying. My Essence Soul can use quite a bit of my strength when it departs a body but it can''t put up any resistance against this bangle Dharma treasure."


    At that moment, Qin Yun walked over.


    "The Cosmic Bangles'' strength has increased tremendously." Qin Yun was rather pleased.


    There were a total of six Cosmic Bangles, with the entire set being a Numinous treasure! However, Qin Yun had only obtained three of the bangles from the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm.


    The three Cosmic Bangles could still match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    The power of a Dharma treasure depended on its user! For instance, back in the Immortal Cave Abode, the Bai family''s Bai Junyue had used a first-grade Dharma treasure, the Minor Stellar Heavenly Cycle. As she had yet to comprehend the Stellar Heavenly Cycle intent realm, she was unable to withstand the Earth fire even though the Dharma treasure itself was powerful. She failed to obtain the Golden Core Cauldron as a result. After Qin Yun obtained the Golden Core Outer Pills, his casting of the Cyclic Sword Flash was able to withstand the Earth fire.


    Clearly, the strength of a Dharma treasure also hinged on its user''s power.


    For instance, Jadeface''s Centaurea Fan was only a first-grade Dharma treasure but as Golden Royal Palace''s Palatial Lord had tailored it to Jadeface, it became most suitable in his hands. He was naturally able to produce sufficiently strong might. If did not have his Centaurea Fan, Jadeface''s strength would probably be reduced to less than half.


    When the user and the Dharma treasure worked in harmony, they produced tremendous strength!


    "My Sword Dao, Sword of Heaven Earth, fits the Cosmic Bangles perfectly now." Qin Yun was rather satisfied.


    Each Cosmic Bangle resembled a world unto itself.


    Qin Yun''s Sword Dao, Sword of Heaven Earth, had the eight Ultimates in the four cardinal directions, forming its own world! With his profound understanding of the world, the Cosmic Bangles were not wasted in his hands.


    They were better than the Intrinsic Flying Sword when it came to entrapment and sealing. Of course, in a frontal assault, the Intrinsic Flying Sword was more powerful!


    "Spare me! Sword Immortal Qin, please spare me!" After being trapped by the Cosmic Bangles, Jadeface''s Essence Soul bowed and pleaded for mercy. "Please spare me. I''m willing to give all my treasures to you, Sword Immortal Qin. I will tell you every secret regarding the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. I won''t hold back anything."


    However, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of Sword Qi flew out, slicing at Jadeface''s Essence Soul again and again.


    Jadeface was unable to put up any resistance as his Essence Soul was constantly sapped. He could not help but be horrified. "Sword Immortal Qin, what are you doing?"


    Soon after, Jadeface''s Essence Soul was left completely enervated. Only then did Qin Yun cast a powerful Sealing Spell on him to seal his Essence Soul.


    "He''s too weak to break out of my seal." Qin Yun nodded slightly. With a beckon, the three Cosmic Bangles flew back to his wrist where they returned to their inconspicuous state.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, why are you sealing me instead of killing me?" Jadeface secretly heaved a sigh of relief when he noticed that Qin Yun was not going to kill him. He gave Qin Yun a complicated look. "Furthermore, your Sword Dao is unbelievably strong. Your strength is comparable to a second Firmament Essence Soul expert! Your flying sword and that bangle Dharma treasure are very impressive! However, the world talks of you as an ordinary sword immortal that has stepped into the Dao. They say that you can''t even kill mortal fiendish demons at the Paramount realm. What are you scheming,that you conceal your strength this much?"


    "Scheming?" Qin Yun could not help but laugh.


    "I''ve already been sealed by you. My life is in your hands. Can''t you tell me something?" Jadeface said with a smile. "Perhaps, I can aid you in your plans. After all, my perspective on things is broader than yours. I do know many of the world''s secrets."


    Qin Yun gave him a glance and said, "You are overthinking things!"


    With that said, he took out a Cosmic Bag and retrieved a unique jade flask. This was a Dharma treasure he picked up from the Ancient Skydragon Palace. It could store souls and Essence Souls.


    He pulled open the flask''s lid.


    "Retrieve."


    The sealed Jadeface immediately flew up and naturally shrunk in size. He could not help but be appalled. "Let me go. Let me¡ª"


    Before he even finished his shout, Jadeface was pulled into the jade flask. Following that, Qin Yun gently covered the lid.


    "I was planning on killing you directly." Qin Yun looked at the jade flask. "However, once you are killed, Cloudfiend Mountain would instantly know of your death. It might immediately send people to investigate thoroughly¡­ So, I''ll temporarily imprison you. There''s no rush to kill you."

 306 Yellow Wyrms Three Treasures

    Chapter 306: Yellow Wyrm''s Three Treasures


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At present, Fiend Sovereign Jadeface and Palatial Lord Black Dragon were inside the Grotto-heaven. They had no way of communicating with the outside world. The secret of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven had yet to be exposed, but if either one of them were to die, Cloudfiend Mountain or Po Cloud Lake''s Nine Demon alliance would definitely launch a thorough investigation. When that happened, the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven would definitely to be exposed. Many of the treasures within might be snatched away!


    Therefore, capturing him alive was the best choice for the time being.


    "This Jadeface''s body is only of an ordinary grade. It can''t be considered overly powerful. It might be of use to fiendcelestials or fiendish demons but humans or the Water race would have little use for it." Qin Yun shook his head gently. With a wave of his hand, countless Sword Qi flew out and rapidly diced up Jadeface''s corpse! Unique races like the dragons or phoenixes would have magical corpses if they reached the Essence Soul realm. After all, they had extraordinary blood running through them.


    As for ordinary fiendcelestials, their bodies were of limited use.


    "His Cosmic Bag is actually slightly smaller than Elder Sword''s Cosmic Bag." Qin Yun quickly rummaged through the treasures Jadeface left behind. There were a total of two first-grade Dharma treasures as well as medicinal pills and treasures. Qin Yun stored them away and continued dismantling the Firecloud Columns.


    ¡­


    After dismantling the chamber, he rushed to another spot.


    As Flood Dragon King had provided him with detailed intelligence, Qin Yun knew exactly where all the important spots and precious treasures were in the Yellow Wyrm corpse despite its maze-like construction.


    His efficiency was naturally much higher as a result.


    After dismantling two regions one after another, Qin Yun arrived at a third region.


    "This is the Treasure Repository." Qin Yun looked at the sealed hall in front of him. "Whatever could be moved away from Treasure Repository has been moved by Flood Dragon King ahead of time. The items that remain in here are unmovable. However, I might as well give it a try."


    Boom!


    The hall''s sealed door was pushed open by Qin Yun.


    The Treasure Repository''s interior was empty. At a glance, only three items remained.


    The first item was a massive stone ax. It was embedded into the ground like a fixture. It was difficult to even move it. The second item was a scroll placed on a stone platform. The third item was a stone wall. There were a total of 189 palm imprints on the stone wall.


    Qin Yun could not help but feel enticed when he swept his gaze.


    "They are all extraordinary." Qin Yun felt a little excited.


    "Let me give each one a closer look."


    Qin Yun first went to the stone ax. With a wave of his hand, seven flying swords instantly flew out and rapidly extracted the ax.


    It was fixed in place and nearly unmovable.


    Qin Yun took ten minutes to destroy the seal.


    "Boom!" The stone ax fell to the ground, causing the entire Treasure Repository to shake. Qin Yun went forward and grabbed the thick ax hilt with both hands.


    "It''s truly heavy. I can''t move it at all with my physical strength. I have to use my Dharmic powers." Qin Yun was somewhat surprised. His physical strength was very high after cultivating a purplish-gold Golden Core. Yet, he was still unable to move the stone ax at all. He only managed to do so by using his purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers!


    He infused his Dharmic powers into the stone ax and rapidly refined it as his own.


    During the refinement process, he also learned about the ax.


    "Transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Skywoe Ax. That Flood Dragon King sure has poor judgment. He couldn''t even recognize such a treasure!" Qin Yun was pleasantly surprised. "This ax is just too heavy. It''s only usable by people with extremely powerful bodies! The Other Realm Yellow Wyrm left this ax here in hopes that a descendant who attains the Essence Soul would appear. With the yellow flood dragons'' bodies, the Skywoe Ax would be very suitable once they reach the Essence Soul realm!"


    "Contract!"


    The Skywoe Ax rapidly shrank to about ten feet long. Following that, Qin Yun put it away into his Cosmic Bag.


    Next, Qin Yun came in front of the stone platform where the scroll was placed. The seven flying swords rapidly tore through the sealing array formation and before long, he held the scroll in hand.


    "This is?" When the scroll unfurled in front of him, Qin Yun was astounded.


    "Map? This is a map that leads to an Other Realm?"


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished but he thought carefully. "Years ago, did the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm come to this world using this path?"


    The map''s value was difficult to determine.


    To the top existences of this world, such as Human Emperor and Ancestral Master Zhang, exploring the Other Realm was an easy matter. However, this was the first time Qin Yun had seen a map that led to an Other Realm!


    "I should store it away for now."


    Qin Yun quickly stored the map away as he looked at the third treasure.


    The third treasure was a gigantic stone wall.


    Qin Yun immediately controlled his seven flying swords and spent about ten minutes cracking open the seal. At the instant the seal was cracked open, the stone wall suffused rows of text¡ª


    "I traveled the cosmos and passed by a desolate planet. On it, I found this stone wall! There were 189 palm prints on it. When I saw it back then, I was shocked. It was the most impressive art I have ever seen in my life. It''s even superior to the Skydemon heritage I had obtained. I immediately cleaved apart the stone wall and took it away! This palm art is infinitely profound and contains the Dao of the world. Although I do not know who created it, they are a senior I am most impressed with. Descendants who receive it have to treasure it! Others should not be informed of it or it would only attract danger. Remember! Remember my words wisely!"


    This text disappeared after a while.


    Qin Yun was somewhat surprised.


    "What? This is most impressive art that the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm had seen in his life?" Qin Yun looked at the stone wall, feeling somewhat delighted but dejected at the same time.


    He felt dejected because it was a set of palm arts! It was a combat-related art and not a cultivation Dharmic formulation.


    As a sword immortal, reaching the Connate Golden Core was the limit. There was still no Dharmic formulation that could condense an Essence Soul for sword immortals to this day.


    "Let me see what moves are available." Qin Yun began calming his mind as he studied it carefully.


    At Qin Yun''s level, palm arts, saber arts, fist arts, and sword arts were not so different.


    Every Dao led to the same endpoint.


    What Qin Yun paid attention to was the Dao that underlay the moves.


    As he studied it, he found himself engrossed in it. The reason why the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm extolled the stone wall''s palm arts was that it was truly impressive.


    "Impressive."


    "The fusion of emotion and moves can be this perfect."


    "I dare say that my Sword of Heaven Earth is intricate enough. But this is even more so." Qin Yun was reeling in shocked excitement. The unnamed senior expert''s palm arts shared similar aspects with Qin Yun''s Sword Dao! Furthermore, it was even more brilliant! Qin Yun was at present contemplating the perfect fusion of the Paramount Emotions and his sword moves. The stone wall''s palm arts opened up a brand new world for him, giving him greater insights.


    However strong you are, there is always someone stronger!


    Never believe that you are sufficiently perfect! After being made aware of a brand new world, Qin Yun was fully impressed. He was also extremely touched.


    It was no wonder the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm was so excited that he cut out the stone wall to move it away when he saw it on a desolate planet! He wanted to look at it all the time.


    "This is my third dismantling spot. That Flood Dragon King sure is dumb. He felt that the stone wall''s palm arts were completely incomprehensible! He couldn''t see the map either. He could not tell what kind of treasure the stone ax is. As such, he thought too little of these treasures," thought Qin Yun. "If I had known earlier, I would have come to the Treasure Repository first."


    From Flood Dragon King''s point of view, he determined that the chamber''s Cloudwater Stone Soul and the Firecloud Columns were very valuable.


    Flood Dragon King could not determine the value of the three items in the Treasure Repository. This was why the Treasure Repository was the third to be dismantled by Qin Yun.


    Who could guess¡­ that this ended up being the greatest harvest!


    ******


    Elsewhere.


    At the heart of the Yellow Wyrm corpse.


    "Boom!" Black Dragon had transformed into a black dragon as he swiped down at the gigantic heart. Its surface stirred with array formations but it was impossible to crack open.


    "It must be that little fish demoness." Yellow Surge was feeling extremely indignant. "The little fish demoness must have entered, resulting in the heart''s closure. Once it is sealed, it becomes highly secure."


    "Qin Yun brought that little fish demoness to meet that Yellow Wyrm." Black Dragon landed to the side and transformed into an elder with a dragon''s head. He said with a frown, "Back when you first sensed the opening of the Grotto-heaven, it must have been because that little fish demoness was being let in. We were one step too slow."


    "Whatever." Black Dragon said, "Surge, we should quickly search for treasures. Once we are done searching, we can come again after the hundred days are up! Perhaps the power contained within the heart allows for another round of baptism."


    "Alright." Yellow Surge nodded. He too was out of ideas.


    "Let''s go."


    Black Dragon led Yellow Surge around as they searched for treasures.


    ¡­


    "Hmph! It must be Jadeface. He got here first and dismantled this area." Black Dragon looked at the hall that had completely collapsed. He grunted angrily. "Let''s go. Onward to other places."


    ¡­


    Black Dragon searched constantly and also discovered a few treasures. He dismantled the areas in delight. The more he dismantled, the happier he felt.


    Time continued to fly.


    In a blink of an eye, a day had passed.


    "Strange, I have traveled probably half of this Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven''s interior. I have dismantled many areas but I have yet to encounter Jadeface?" Black Dragon was somewhat puzzled. The Yellow Wyrm corpse''s interior was only so large. Even if it resembled a maze, they were bound to meet after one full day. He found it strange. He was somewhat afraid of Jadeface so he was constantly vigilant.


    "Grandfather, I can''t push open this hall''s door," shouted Yellow Surge suddenly.


    "Oh?"


    Black Dragon walked over.


    The hall happened to be the Treasure Repository. Qin Yun was inside studying the stone wall''s palm arts in complete obsession. He decided to shut the door so that he wouldn''t be disturbed.


    "You can''t open it? Let me give it a shot." Black Dragon walked over. With a wave of his hand, surging Essence Soul Dharmic powers charged out. They struck the door, causing the door frame to tremble.


    "It has been shut from the inside?" Black Dragon was perplexed. "Is Jadeface inside? Why did he deliberately shut the door after entering it? Could this place be an area filled with extremely important treasures?"


    "Open up!"


    Upon realizing this possibility, Black Dragon turned somewhat anxious. His Essence Soul Dharmic powers surged as he struck the door''s hall again and again.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­


    The palace door rumbled.


    And in the Treasure Repository''s interior, Qin Yun was engrossed in his study of the palm art like he was in a dream. Suddenly, he heard a loud rumble as he looked at the shut door. "It''s so noisy!"


    "Boom." The hall''s door finally blasted open as a gigantic black dragon claw struck out and sent the hall''s door flying.


    Black Dragon had retracted his claws and strode in with Yellow Surge. "Fiend Sovereign Jadeface, by hiding here¡­ Oh? It''s you? Qin Yun?"


    Black Dragon looked at Qin Yun, baffled.


    Translator''s Thoughts


    CKtalon CKtalon


    Hi everyone,


    SFSP will be going Premium on the 11th of April.


    I hope that everyone can still show their support after the novel has gone premium (whether it is through free SS, paid SS or free chapters).


    Don''t forget to check-in daily for your free Spirit Stones. You can also get free Spirit Stones from watching ads on the mobile app, voting for future release titles with Energy Stones, and voting a book to the Power rankings with Power Stones (Please vote for SFSP!).


    The release rate for free readers will be 7/week. For premium readers, the rate will remain at 10/week with mini mass releases (about 5 chapters, probably during TGIFs) happening about every other week.


    I will also release an additional chapter on the 10th before going Premium.


    There will likely be a mass release of about 10 chapters on the 11th too. Please support Premium!


    Thank you for reading!

 307 Hey, Old Black Dragon, you came too?

    Chapter 307: Hey, Old Black Dragon, you came too?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Black Dragon scanned the hall and saw the remnants of dismantled spots, places like where the stone ax was previously located. The remaining area was empty. Despite being more conspicuous, the stone wall with the palm arts did not warrant a second look at first glance.


    "Qin Yun, are you alone in here?" Black Dragon sized up Qin Yun as he spoke.


    "Palatial Lord Black Dragon, what a coincidence." Qin Yun looked at the elder with the dragon head as his eyes lit up. "I didn''t seek you out but here you are."


    "Hmph!"


    Black Dragon''s expression sank.


    By his side, Yellow Surge could not help but bellow, "What impudence! How dare you be this disrespectful in front of my grandfather?"


    "Flood Dragon Palace''s eldest prince, Yellow Surge." Qin Yun nodded. "I''ve heard about you. The two sons of Dragon Queen are bloodthirsty and intractable. They have wreaked much havoc. Now, you are even scheming against your own father?"


    "It wouldn''t be necessary if that old fool gave me the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven without a fuss," said Yellow Surge angrily. "He refused to give it to me and now that young fish demoness is claiming it for her own. She is even undergoing the Bloodline Baptism. He deserves to die!"


    However, Black Dragon said, "Alright. Surge, put the matter aside for the time being."


    Yellow Surge held back as he stared at Qin Yun unhappily.


    From his point of view, he would have been able to enter the heart and undergo a Bloodline Baptism if not for Qin Yun bringing the little fish demoness here. He would be on the path to a limitless future.


    "Qin Yun." Black Dragon looked at Qin Yun and asked him casually. "Let me ask you this: Have you seen Fiend Sovereign Jadeface?"


    "I have." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Where is he?" Black Dragon pressed. Jadeface was his only match!


    "Do you really want to know?" Qin Yun looked at him with an odd glint in his eyes.


    Black Dragon nodded.


    It had been a day. Although the Yellow Wyrm corpse was structured like a maze, it was still finite in size. He felt uneasy that they had not met again.


    "Before answering you, let me ask you a question," said Qin Yun. "Do you know of the death of the little fish demoness''s adopted father?"


    "I''ve heard of your good friend." Black Dragon nodded slightly. "You should know that I was planning to rid Flood Dragon King of all his illegitimate children. I unknowingly implicated your friend."


    "Unknowingly implicated? You make it sound rather inconsequential." Qin Yun sneered. "Did those illegitimate children commit any crime? Did my brother, Scholar, commit any wrongdoing? They were all killed solely because of your ambition."


    "Yes, I understand." Black Dragon gave a perfunctory nod and said. "Let''s talk about this another time. Let me ask you this now. You said that you have seen Jadeface. Do you know where he is?"


    Black Dragon was turning a little impatient.


    It was just the death of a mere ant.


    By asking so politely, he was already honoring this peerless human sword immortal.


    "Scholar," said Qin Yun softly. "It''s been seven years. You have been dead for seven years but today, finally, I can truly avenge you."


    He had already killed the lesser demons that had done the deed!


    The mastermind behind all of this was Black Dragon. Even Dragon Queen, who was the one that officially gave the order, had done so under Black Dragon''s instruction! She completed the tasks obediently and married Flood Dragon King as well as sent the hunters. In the end, she was only a pawn of the true mastermind, Black Dragon.


    "Truly avenge?" Black Dragon was somewhat taken aback.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Whoosh.


    The three black bangles on his left wrist flew out immediately. As they flew out, they rapidly expanded upon contact with the wind. The black bangles had runic patterns running through them as a terrifying surge of power enveloped the distant Black Dragon.


    "Not good!" Black Dragon instantly sensed an invisible force envelop him. It began influencing his Dharmic powers negatively. The three bangles'' might threatened him greatly.


    "Roar¡ª¡ª!"


    Black Dragon instantly revealed his true form, a massive black dragon. His body even stretched to the walls of the hall, causing it to crumble. He instantly spewed a surge of purplish-black flames! They obstreperously caused wanton destruction.


    However, the three black bangles became even bigger as they stacked themselves in the air before enveloping the area below.


    They appeared like a massive world that could blanket everything.


    Black Dragon''s Annihilation Devouring Toxic Flame was famous for its ferocious oppressiveness, but it was completely trapped by the Cosmic Bangles. It was reduced to a corner where it could not cause much destruction.


    "Suppress!" yelled Qin Yun.


    The three gigantic black Cosmic Bangles descended and contracted.


    The Annihilation Devouring Toxic Flame was simultaneously contracting with the bangles. As for the black dragon, it too was shrinking.


    "How is this possible?" Black Dragon found it unbelievable. He frantically struggled, striking his surroundings with his demonic dragon form''s sharp claws and tail. Unfortunately for him, there was an invisible spatial cage around him that remained impregnable to his attacks. Under Qin Yun''s control, the three Cosmic Bangles continued contracting slowly.


    "Grandfather! Grandfather!" Yellow Surge panicked.


    "It''s impossible. What Dharma treasure is it? Why is it so powerful?" Black Dragon looked at the three black Cosmic Bangles that were closing in on him slowly like a cage. He could not help but panic as he looked at the distant Qin Yun. "Even if it''s a Numinous treasure, it''s impossible that Qin Yun has the strength to suppress me."


    Qin Yun looked at him.


    When his Sword Dao and the Cosmic Bangles harmonized perfectly, the might produced by the Cosmic Bangles was extraordinarily powerful.


    "Don''t bother struggling," said Qin Yun.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Black Dragon continued struggling with all his might, but the Cosmic Bangles continued contracting slowly. It left him in greater despair as he finally came to terms with reality. He understood that it was impossible for him to escape with his own strength.


    He looked at Qin Yun and gave a deep growl. "Sword Immortal Qin, the world at large has the wrong image of you. They say that you are a sword immortal that has only stepped into an ordinary Dao! What a joke! Your strength is even more terrifying than that Elder Sword whom I met back in my day! Despite being a sword immortal, you haven''t even used a flying sword. Just this bangle Dharma treasure is enough to suppress me."


    "I admit defeat." Black Dragon had an anxious look. "Sword Immortal Qin, please spare me. I will fulfill anything you ask of me."


    "Suppress." Qin Yun continued controlling the Cosmic Bangles with all he had.


    This was the first time he was dealing with an enemy with all his strength through the Cosmic Bangles.


    If an enemy was sufficiently strong, the Cosmic Bangles might not be capable of suppressing them. But now, Black Dragon''s resistance clearly failed to reach that level.


    "Whoosh~" A mighty force distorted from the Cosmic Bangle''s interior.


    "Ah!"


    The distorting blast swept past Yellow Surge!


    At that moment, Black Dragon was unable to divert his attention to protect Yellow Surge. It caused Yellow Surge to scream, "Grandfather!" Instantly, he perished from the blast, transforming into a flood dragon corpse. Then the body was rapidly ground to dust by the distortions! As the suppressive effect of the Cosmic Bangles was too terrifying, Yellow Surge''s body was completely incapable of putting up a resistance.


    "Spare me! Please spare my life. I''m a flood dragon. It''s not easy to condense an Essence Soul." Black Dragon had a pleading look in his eyes. "Sword Immortal Qin, please offer me a way out of this! Spare my life!"


    However, Qin Yun did not speak a word.


    Instead, the Cosmic Bangles continued suppressing and contracting, forcing the black dragon to contract as well.


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    Black Dragon was horrified.


    Finally, at the instant the three black Cosmic Bangles latched onto him, all the Dharmic powers in his flood dragon body were sealed. He was unable to draw from them anymore and, with a bam, he fell to the ground of the Treasure Repository.


    "The Cosmic Bangles are rather strong. I managed to take down Black Dragon solely by using them," thought Qin Yun. There were sweat beads on his forehead. "It was just a little tiring. It also took me quite some time." If he had used his Intrinsic Flying Sword, it would have taken two to three strikes to defeat Black Dragon. However, he also wanted to test the Cosmic Bangles'' strength. If the other three Cosmic Bangles were obtained, their might would increase once again as a complete set.


    "Sword Immortal Qin! Sword Immortal Qin!" Black Dragon, who was fully sealed by the Cosmic Bangles, pleaded.


    However, Qin Yun went forward and, with a wave of his hand, sent out a wisp of Sword Qi.


    The Sword Qi bored through Black Dragon''s body, striking his Essence Soul directly.


    "What are you doing?" Black Dragon was panicking.


    "What do you think?" In moments, Qin Yun enervated Black Dragon''s Essence Soul. He cast another powerful Sealing Spell and sealed Black Dragon''s Essence Soul.


    "Retrieve."


    Qin Yun took out the jade flask, and sucked Black Dragon''s weakened Essence Soul into the flask from a distance.


    An extremely weakened black dragon Essence Soul flew out of his body and towards the jade flask as it shrank.


    "Spare me!" Black Dragon''s Essence Soul was still pleading.


    However, Qin Yun did not speak a word. He watched coldly as Black Dragon''s Essence Soul was sucked into the jade flask before he closed the lid.


    ¡­


    It was cold and desolate inside the jade flask.


    Jadeface''s Essence Soul was in there when he suddenly sensed an opening appear in the sealed space above him. He could not help but look up as another Essence Soul whooshed in.


    "This is¡­" Black Dragon felt a little uneasy when he entered the unfamiliar land. He immediately probed his surroundings.


    "Hey, Old Black Dragon, you came too?" A scoff was heard from the side.

 308 Flood Dragon Kings Death

    Chapter 308: Flood Dragon King''s Death


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Black Dragon''s Essence Soul turned around and saw Jadeface sitting cross-legged in a corner.


    "Fiend Sovereign Jadeface?" Black Dragon was shocked. "You were captured by Qin Yun too? It''s no wonder I never bumped into you the entire day. I was still puzzled about not seeing you. After all, the Yellow Wyrm corpse is only so big. Now, both you and I are trapped here. Do you know why Qin Yun imprisoned us instead of just killing us?"


    "How would I know?" Jadeface sneered.


    "He didn''t kill us and only imprisoned us¡­ Perhaps he is up to something," speculated Black Dragon. "If that''s the case, we might still have a chance to live."


    "Do you have an idea?" Jadeface shot a glance at Black Dragon. He too wanted to live.


    Black Dragon sighed and said, "We are now fishes on a chopping block while Qin Yun is the butcher. All we can do now is wait for him to release us. We will know his intentions when the time comes."


    "Such bullshit."


    Jadeface''s mouth curled as he closed his eyes.


    "Sigh."


    Black Dragon coiled in a corner as his dragon head shook slightly. "I really never expected a mere mortal like Qin Yun to have such terrifying strength! He was able to take me down with just his bangle Dharma treasure alone. He did not even use his flying sword, the one thing sword immortals are best at."


    "Haha." Jadeface opened his eyes and said with a scoff, "I''m luckier than you. I managed to see him use his flying sword."


    "Oh? How powerful is it?" asked Black Dragon immediately.


    "Sword Refinement Threading, Scuffing the Void." Jadeface did not lie.


    Black Dragon was alarmed. "Scuffing the Void¡­"


    "This Qin Yun is truly powerful," said Jadeface with a sigh. "In the entire history of sword immortals, I would rank him in the top three. Not just that, he''s so young. He will likely become the strongest sword immortal ever before his five hundred years are up."


    "So what if he''s the strongest sword immortal in history? He is still only mortal," said Black Dragon. "Once his five hundred years are up, he will be nothing but dust."


    Jadeface closed his eyes and did not say another word.


    Regardless, they were both Essence Soul entities that had ruled the world for thousands of years. They were now prisoners and their survival depended on Qin Yun''s mood.


    ******


    Qin Yun quickly put away Black Dragon''s body and treasures. The demonic dragon''s true body was of some use, unlike Jadeface''s body. So naturally, he opted to not destroy it.


    "Having dismantled the area for a day, Black Dragon sure has obtained quite a sizable amount of treasures." Qin Yun checked his cosmic bag and was rather astonished. Of course, the most precious items had already been taken by Qin Yun. However, Black Dragon had dismantled large quantities of treasures. It was quite a stunning amount.


    Now, both Essence Soul experts were no longer a problem. Qin Yun settled down to return to the stone wall in front of him.


    He carefully studied the stone wall palm art that the nameless senior created.


    During the meditation process, Qin Yun would often benefit from it. The accumulated knowledge of his Sword Dao was already immensely profound. All he needed to do was fuse sword move with emotions. Having had the experience with Bright Moon Over River, Dual Flight, and Samsara, Qin Yun would not have taken more than two to three years to succeed in perfectly fusing them and creating a perfect Sword Dao foundation even without any help.


    But now, with the stone wall''s palm arts to inspire him, the process was accelerated.


    "Boom!!!"


    Qin Yun would occasionally practice his sword arts, sending Sword Qi flying wantonly like tumultuous thunder.


    A new nascent Sword Dao was rapidly perfected.


    ¡­


    Flood Dragon Palace.


    "Scram! All of you!" Flood Dragon King bellowed angrily. The female attendants and the guards retreated in fear, leaving Flood Dragon King alone on his throne inside the huge hall.


    Flood Dragon King sat there dispirited.


    The poison in him was spreading. He could sense that death was fast approaching him. This feeling was infuriating and painful, even for a Water race sovereign like him.


    He was angry and vindictive!


    "You married your daughter to me. All the gratitude in the past was fake! Fake!"


    "Those two ingrates have completely pledged their allegiance to their grandfather. Hahaha. Is it because their grandfather is an Essence Soul demon?" Flood Dragon King felt extremely bitter. He took out his transmission treasure. "It''s been a month. That old Black Dragon and Jadeface have been in there for a month but none of their transmission marks have dissipated."


    "If their marks are still there, it means that they aren''t dead."


    "None of them are dead!"


    Flood Dragon King was furious but powerless.


    Although his ingrate son Yellow Surge''s transmission mark had vanished from the transmission treasure, the person Flood Dragon King wanted dead the most was Black Dragon!


    After he sent Qin Yun, Black Dragon, and Jadeface into the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven, Flood Dragon King checked his transmission treasure daily. He probably checked it hundreds if not thousands of times a day. Every time he finished a flask of alcohol, he would check it another ten times. And every time, he wished to see Black Dragon''s transmission mark dissipate! Even if it didn''t, it would also be good if Jadeface''s transmission mark vanished.


    This was because the death of either of the two meant success!


    If Jadeface were to die, Cloudfiend Mountain would definitely send more powerful fiendcelestials to investigate the matter. They would quickly discover the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. There was no need to guess what would happen to the Black Dragon who killed Jadeface in that situation. With Cloudfiend Mountain''s modus operandi, they would definitely kill Black Dragon in revenge.


    "Both of them are not dead." Flood Dragon King felt bitter.


    He once thought of inviting more powerful fiendcelestials! However, if the person was too much stronger than Black Dragon, Black Dragon might choose to submit to them. It would not lead to any sort of conflict!


    Only minute differences could justify conflict.


    ¡­


    Another five days passed.


    Flood Dragon King''s face was pale and his eyes were glazing over.


    "I can''t repress the poison anymore. Today is the day I die." Flood Dragon King looked at the transmission treasure in his hand. "Jadeface and Black Dragon''s transmission marks remain intact."


    "Whatever."


    Flood Dragon King sighed lightly. "My final counterattack was of no use. Borrowing the strength of others ultimately leaves things to luck! Clearly, I lack good luck!"


    Swoosh.


    With a thought, Flood Dragon King opened the Grotto-heaven and entered the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven.


    The moment he entered the Grotto-heaven, he arrived at a secret chamber in the Yellow Wyrm corpse''s interior. The gigantic chamber was sealed shut. There was no way one could enter under normal circumstances! Only the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven''s owner could enter.


    Inside the gigantic chamber were some skeletons.


    Every reigning Flood Dragon King of the yellow flood dragon lineage would either die in battle outside, be buried in a particular spot in Flood Dragon Palace, or choose to be buried in the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven.


    "Has my yellow flood dragon lineage come to an end?" Flood Dragon King sat cross-legged as he waited for death to take him.


    His senses permeated every spot in the Grotto-heaven, and he discovered the little fish demoness undergoing her Bloodline Baptism inside the heart.


    "Little fish demoness." Flood Dragon King suffused a smile. "No matter if you deny it or not, you have my yellow flood dragon''s bloodline flowing in you! You will lead a good life under Sword Immortal Qin''s protection. You will have many children and grandchildren¡­ My yellow flood dragon lineage will not end. With Sword Immortal Qin''s character, he will definitely help you with all he has after he received so many treasures from me."


    "It seems like something isn''t right¡­"


    Flood Dragon King faltered.


    He was left in a daze for quite a while.


    "This¡­ This is impossible!"


    Flood Dragon King finally realized what was amiss. "Where are Jadeface and Black Dragon? Why aren''t they here in the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven?"


    He was the owner of the Grotto-heaven which allowed him to check every spot.


    Now, there were indeed many spots in the Grotto-heaven that had been dismantled. Many places had collapsed.


    However, he failed to find Jadeface and Black Dragon.


    "Both of them have disappeared? Have they left the Grotto-heaven? That''s impossible. I''m the owner of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. They wouldn''t be able to leave without me knowing."


    "They must still be in the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven!"


    "But why can''t I find them? They can''t be dead. Their transmission marks haven''t dissipated yet!"


    Flood Dragon King was baffled.


    Suddenly, he felt his head turn groggy. The poison was acting up again. He found it difficult to maintain his consciousness.


    "What''s happening? What exactly happened?" Flood Dragon King was perplexed.


    "I can only ask Sword Immortal Qin." Flood Dragon King had no other solution. The only two living people in the Grotto-heaven other than him were the little fish demoness Fu Sizhuo, who was undergoing a Bloodline Baptism, and the cultivating Qin Yun. Furthermore, the Treasure Repository that Qin Yun was in had clearly experienced a massive battle. There were many signs of damage.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged inside the Treasure Repository. His nascent Sword Dao was closing in on perfection and it was not far from completion.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." A voice sounded in his ear.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned. He was a little displeased after being interrupted during his cultivation.


    "I can''t suppress the fatal poison in me. I''m about to die." The voice resonated in his ears.


    Qin Yun was slightly taken aback. The Flood Dragon King was about to die.


    "I would like to ask you. What happened to Jadeface and Black Dragon? I''m certain that they have not exited the Grotto-heaven but I cannot find any traces of the two. Their transmission marks have yet to dissipate. I''m truly baffled." The voice inquired but it sounded weak.


    "Oh," Qin Yun replied with a nod. "Both of them have been vanquished by me. I have temporarily imprisoned their Essence Souls. It''s not quite time for me to destroy their Essence Souls."


    "What?" Flood Dragon King''s voice was filled with shock. "How¡­ How is this possible?"


    Qin Yun felt pity for the dying Flood Dragon King.


    He took out two Dharma treasures from the Cosmic Bag by his waist. One of them was the Centaurea Fan and the other was a black palm-sized flying boat. "Do you believe me now?"


    "Jadeface''s Centaurea Fan and that Black Dragon''s Blackwater Flying Boat? I believe you. I believe you!" Flood Dragon King was extremely excited. He always hoped that Jadeface and Black Dragon would kill each other. He never expected that the both of them would end up being destroyed by Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin. I''m truly and infinitely grateful," said Flood Dragon King. "I have no way to thank you. All I can wish for is that you will take good care of that daughter of mine."


    "There''s no need for you to say that. Before Scholar died, he exhorted me to do so. I will definitely take good care of her," said Qin Yun.


    "That''s good. That''s good¡­"


    At the instant before his death, Flood Dragon King still placed great importance on the little fish demoness who shared his blood. Finally, in death, he acted somewhat like a father.


    ¡­


    Inside the gigantic chamber.


    "Old Black Dragon, you schemed against my yellow flood dragon lineage? Haha. For you to accompany me in death, I''ll die contented! I''m contented!" Flood Dragon King naturally began to transform into his true form. A yellow flood dragon sprawled inside the gigantic chamber and coiled. His eyes dimmed. "Sword Immortal Qin, thank you. Thank you for avenging me."


    Following that, his massive eyelids closed as he took his last breath.


    Translator''s Thoughts


    CKtalon CKtalon


    Hi everyone,


    SFSP will be going Premium on the 11th of April.


    I hope that everyone can still show their support after the novel has gone premium (whether it is through free SS, paid SS or free chapters).


    Don''t forget to check-in daily for your free Spirit Stones. You can also get free Spirit Stones from watching ads on the mobile app, voting for future release titles with Energy Stones, and voting a book to the Power rankings with Power Stones (Please vote for SFSP!).


    The release rate for free readers will be 7/week. For premium readers, the rate will remain at 10/week with mini mass releases (about 5 chapters, probably during TGIFs) happening about every other week.


    I will also release an additional chapter on the 10th before going Premium.


    There will likely be a mass release of about 10 chapters on the 11th too. Please support Premium!


    Thank you for reading!

 309 Foundation of Sword Dao

    Chapter 309: Foundation of Sword Dao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven''s Treasure Repository.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged and looked carefully at each palm print on the ancient stone wall in front of him, studying the profound and unfathomable stone wall''s palm arts. The more he studied them, the more impressed he was with the creator of the stone wall''s palm arts.


    But slowly¡­


    Qin Yun closed his eyes and stopped looking at the stone wall. As a nascent Sword Dao had already reached a perfect state in his heart, and with him having the necessary preparations, the nascent Sword Dao was fast approaching completion¡­


    After an unknown period of time.


    "Boom!"


    An invisible domain blasted out from the seated Qin Yun. It launched the rubble from the Treasure Repository''s collapse outwards.


    Jadeface and Black Dragon would have been utterly dumbfounded if they saw this scene. This was because the feat proved that Qin Yun''s Dao domain was strong enough to withstand the domain suppression of the Yellow Wyrm corpse''s interior.


    The Other Realm Yellow Wyrm had horrifying strength. Just its corpse alone emitted an extremely powerful domain suppression in its interior. Previously, Qin Yun, Jadeface, and Black Dragon were unable to produce their Dao domains! But now, Qin Yun released a domain that expanded to a thousand feet. Although it remained suppressed, it was evident that the difference between the two domains was no longer as exaggerated. At the very least, the corpse''s domain was unable to fully suppress Qin Yun.


    The new Dao domain surged outwards.


    "This is my Sword Dao." Qin Yun felt at peace as he gradually opened his eyes.


    "Sword Dao can be divided into Heaven, Earth, and Man!"


    "The Heaven and Earth are not void of emotions. Same goes for Man."


    Qin Yun recited softly.


    After accumulating all the experience he gained in the past three years, he finally formed his present Sword Dao!


    During his dream of a hundred years, he had gained insight into a ''Sword of Heaven Earth'' in the second world. It was a peerless Sword Dao that came as a result of having a heart that resembled an ice mirror. The perfection of his Sword Dao resulted in the creation of a world of its own! Now, the new Sword Dao that Qin Yun had grasped¡­ contained emotions. It represented the Heaven and Earth, as well as the people who lived in the world! Qin Yun''s Sword Dao had gained an additional quality of emotions and vitality.


    It could be said that from a foundational perspective, the Sword of Heaven Earth was already considered very high. But this final Sword Dao he formed, it was even more brilliant.


    "Hum!" The newly formed Sword Dao naturally nourished the Intrinsic Flying Sword in him, as well as nurtured his body and soul.


    His body and soul slowly became stronger. Under the new Sword Dao''s influence, his Intrinsic Flying Sword gradually experienced a change! When the nurturing came to an end, the Intrinsic Flying Sword would become completely compatible with its owner. Therefore, the stronger his Sword Dao was, the more heaven-defying his Intrinsic Flying Sword would be. In history, there were two sword immortals that had forcibly nurtured their Intrinsic Flying Swords to the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure level.


    ¡­


    The first step of Stepping into the Dao was about the foundation.


    Just like the construction of a building, the stronger the foundation, the higher the building! And if the foundation was weak and shallow, with a person taking a more unorthodox path in the beginning, one''s achievements would be limited even if one made it all the way to the end of that path.


    This was the reason why, despite many cultivators condensing Essence Souls, they remained at the first Firmament of the Essence Soul realm even after thousands of years of cultivation! From the very beginning, they had shallow insights and had proceeded down a weaker path. Their prospects were naturally limited as a result. They made it more difficult to reach the second Firmament of the Essence Soul realm. But to get them to forge a new path? Their life''s worth of experiences and personalities would have made them firmly believe in their original path. It was something unchangeable.


    To change it?


    One could change their Dao if they experienced a major setback and had a change in character!


    For example, reincarnations as per legend would make a person lose the memories of their past lives. With a blank slate, it was possible to exceed one''s previous life, allowing them to reach a brand new realm!


    For example, Qin Yun had experienced two entirely different worlds because of his dream of a hundred years. In the first world, his body contained a bloodlust and he was influenced by the killing intent for a prolonged period of time. It resulted in him creating his first Sword Dao.


    In the second world, his heart was as still as an ice mirror! It was extremely cold and calm, allowing him to create the ''Sword of Heaven Earth.''


    But in fact, neither path was what he desired deep down.


    Without the bloodlust or heart that was as still as water, he returned to normal and possessed rich feelings again. Qin Yun naturally wanted to create a Sword Dao that reflected his true self.


    "For me to reach this point, the dream of a hundred years was very important," thought Qin Yun. "If not for the first world, having the Stone of the Earth and help from the various ancient era Numinous treasures, or the second world, with the accumulated wisdom of generations of close combat¡­ I would not have been able to create such a Sword Dao foundation."


    Qin Yun understood this point.


    Although his own perception was important, opportunities were also another important aspect. Of course, the opportunity to dream for a hundred years was something he obtained by capturing the jade bottle''s fiendcelestial alive, as well as discovering the red-scaled arm that he eventually traded for the Amita statue.


    ******


    Qin Yun was immersed in the joy of stepping into the Dao. He first put away the ancient stone wall with the palm prints. He planned to bring it back to Grand Dominance and slowly ruminate over it.


    Following that, he traveled through the Yellow Wyrm corpse''s interior. He continued dismantling the various treasures in it. The moment he killed Jadeface and Black Dragon, factions like the Cloudfiend Mountain would definitely investigate and find this Grotto-heaven! In that case, it was obviously best if he tried to take as much as he could.


    While dismantling, he also practiced his new Sword Dao.


    "Boom!"


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Areas were torn apart one after another.


    With Qin Yun''s increase in strength, it made the dismantling faster.


    There was no spot in the entire Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven that could withstand Qin Yun''s dismantling.


    ¡­


    About half a month after Qin Yun successfully stepped into the Dao, the hundredth day came to an end. By then, the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven was already riddled with holes. Ninety-five percent of the treasures had been dismantled, leaving only an extremely small amount intact!


    As for Qin Yun, he came to a spot in front of the gigantic heart. He sat cross-legged and waited. "Today is the last day. The young fish demoness will come out anytime now."


    About two hours later.


    A passage sealed within the heart opened gradually. A beautiful woman walked out. Her disposition had clearly changed.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was somewhat surprised.


    "Uncle Qin." The beautiful woman smiled faintly.


    "Sizhuo?" Qin Yun looked at the woman in front of him. She resembled Fu Sizhuo but she looked as though she was five or six years older. She was even a little taller.


    "It truly resembles a rebirth," praised Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Yea, I think it won''t be long before I reach the Connate True Core realm." Fu Sizhuo smiled and immediately said, "By the way, Uncle Qin. Shouldn''t we quickly leave the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven? According to the information given by Flood Dragon King, Black Dragon and company will perhaps be arriving soon."


    Fu Sizhuo possessed the other half token and had the yellow flood dragon blood flowing in her. After the Flood Dragon King''s death, she could easily enter the Grotto-heaven.


    As for becoming the Grotto-heaven''s owner? She had to first reach the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "There''s no hurry. I still have one thing to do," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Fu Sizhuo nodded obediently.


    "Wait here for me." Qin Yun instructed. Following that, he entered a house not far away.


    Inside the house.


    Qin Yun closed the door and retrieved the jade flask Dharma treasure.


    "It''s about time to finish them," thought Qin Yun. One of them had caused Scholar to lose his life and the other was a fiendcelestial of Cloudfiend Mountain. Qin Yun had no intention of sparing the two Essence Soul experts.


    He pulled open the stopper.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two translucent Essence Souls flew out. One of them was Fiend Sovereign Jadeface and the other was Palatial Lord Black Dragon. After being imprisoned for a hundred days, both of them were filled with trepidation.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," Jadeface said with a sycophantic smile. "I''m a fiendcelestial from Cloudfiend Mountain. I have some connection with the Other Realm. If I''m left alive, I believe I can be of help to you."


    Black Dragon also put on friendly airs. "Sword Immortal Qin, I have stayed in Po Cloud Lake for thousands of years. All the Essence Soul demons have to take me into account. I''m also rather famous among the Water race. I know many secrets and am willing to tell you all of them. Sword Immortal Qin, if there''s anything you want of me, feel free to tell me. I wouldn''t even frown once!"


    "Oh, by the way, I heard that you have a grudge against Nine Mountain Island Lord? I can get him to come here. I can summon him here, Sword Immortal Qin, and you will be able to easily kill him," added Jadeface.


    The two Essence Soul experts were once fearful hegemons. Now, they were lowering themselves in a bid to survive.

 310 Who is the Murderer? Final Chapter of Volume

    Qin Yun looked at the duo and said, "Go ahead. How can the both of you help me? If you can help me, I''ll naturally let you leave. If not, well, sorry then."


    "Yes, definitely! We can definitely help you." Jadeface and Black Dragon jumped at the opportunity.


    "One by one. I''ll do the questioning one by one." Qin Yun began questioning them individually.


    Qin Yun had no pity towards the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons''s fiendcelestials and Palatial Lord Black Dragon! He had already passed the death sentence on them but had held back for the time being. Qin Yun was already accustomed to lying to people who deserved death back when he traveled the world in his youth.


    An hour later.


    Jadeface and Black Dragon tried everything they could think of to get into Qin Yun''s good books. Although they mentioned some secrets they had chanced upon over their long lives, they did not mention the really pertinent details. They would have lost their worth if they spilled everything.


    "Unfortunately, despite you saying so much, I don''t think there''s anything worth keeping you both alive." Qin Yun said regretfully. "Hence, I can only send the both of you to your deaths."


    "Qin Yun, you were just messing with us?" Jadeface and Black Dragon turned anxious.


    Qin Yun sneered. "One of you is a fiendcelestial and the other is Po Cloud Lake''s great demon. What can you do even if I''m messing with you?"


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Sword Qi whistled out, penetrating Jadeface and Black Dragon''s Essence Souls.


    "No! No¡ª"


    The translucent Essence Souls had indignant looks on their faces. They never expected that Qin Yun would dispose of them without the slightest bit of hesitation.


    When they sensed that their Essence Souls were about to be snuffed out, the two turned increasingly deranged.


    "My Cloudfiend Mountain will not spare you," roared Jadeface angrily.


    "Qin Yun, my Po Cloud Lake will not let this matter rest. You will regret it. You will definitely regret it!" Black Dragon roared as well.


    Qin Yun watched coldly as the two Essence Souls wallowed in despair. They were penetrated by a large amount of Sword Qi before they dissipated completely.


    "Now that they''re dead, their transmission marks will vanish. The outside world will rapidly learn that two Essence Soul realm entities have died." Qin Yun knew this and left the house without hesitation.


    Once he came out, he rushed straight to Fu Sizhuo''s side.


    "Uncle Qin." Fu Sizhuo was surprised.


    "We should leave. We are leaving the Grotto-heaven now," urged Qin Yun urgently.


    "Alright." Fu Sizhuo could sense Qin Yun''s eagerness to leave and did not dare disregard him. Immediately, she took out the half token.


    Buzz.


    She instantly connected with the outside world and saw the massive Flood Dragon Palace outside.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun brought Fu Sizhuo with him and rapidly traveled to the outside world. They soon reached the Flood Dragon Palace.


    All of Flood Dragon King''s underlings knew of his death thanks to the dissipation of his transmission mark. Therefore, Flood Dragon Palace had already begun breaking up into factions that occupied regions of Yellow Wyrm Lake.


    Qin Yun enveloped himself and Fu Sizhuo in a Dao domain that insulated them from any probing. It was better than any Invisibility Spell.


    None of the Water race lesser demons saw Qin Yun and Fu Sizhuo as they exited the palace.


    "Whoosh."


    They rapidly departed.


    After they broke through the surface of Yellow Wyrm Lake, Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light with Fu Sizhuo in tow. They headed for the northern Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance quickly.


    "Sou!"


    His flying speed was extremely fast.


    Especially now that he had stepped into his final Dao, his advanced realm allowed him to remain shockingly fast despite carrying the little fish demoness with him.


    "Sizhuo, this is the other half of the token." Qin Yun handed a half token to Fu Sizhuo.


    "Uncle Qin, this¡­" Fu Sizhuo was somewhat alarmed. Wasn''t the other half with the eldest prince, Yellow Surge? And shouldn''t he be by Black Dragon''s side?


    "In the coming days, don''t leave Grand Dominance," instructed Qin Yun. "Also, don''t tell others about us entering the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven."


    Fu Sizhuo nodded instantly. "I understand. Uncle Qin, rest assured. I would rather die than divulge the information."


    "Haha, there''s no need to go that far." Qin Yun smiled.


    All he wanted was to have less trouble.


    In fact, so what if news of him going to the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven with Fu Sizhuo was spread? Perhaps no one would believe that Qin Yun had killed two Essence Soul experts! Even if they employed special methods and found out that he was the murderer, so what?


    "Only I know that I have killed two Essence Soul experts. If I say nothing, I believe no one will ever learn of it," thought Qin Yun. "However, there are the legendary means of divining the truth. I wonder if they are capable of identifying me."


    Qin Yun was still rather curious in regards to this matter.


    ******


    Qin Yun returned to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance with the little fish demoness.


    This matter sent quakes down the terrifying factions in the world.


    As Jadeface and Black Dragon were Essence Soul realm existences that had ruled over the world for thousands of years, they had interacted many times with many ancient experts. Even if it was only an acquaintance where they exchanged cursory nods, they would typically exchange transmission marks. The only exception were the ones they had a vendetta against! They would completely cut off communication from those that they distanced themselves from. Therefore, at the moment the two of them died, many experts knew of the matter instantly.


    Once the amount of experts who learned of the deaths reached a sizable number, the news naturally spread throughout the world!


    The imperial government, the three sacred lands of Daoism, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, Skydemon Palace, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, the Four Seas'' Dragon race, as well as the numerous itinerant great demons were astounded by the news.


    There were even many cultivators and demons at the Connate realm who quickly learned of it.


    This was because Jadeface and Black Dragon had contact with a few juniors. They too discovered the dissipations of their marks and naturally spread word like wildfire.


    "Two Essence Soul existences perished simultaneously?"


    "What exactly happened?"


    Many Connate cultivators were astounded.


    "It must be some major occurrence. Forget it though. This is a matter between fiendcelestials and immortals. As mortals, we can''t involve ourselves in this matter."


    "It might have been a conflict over treasures or a vendetta. They are existences that could have lived forever after condensing their Essence Souls. To think they risked their lives and ended up losing them." Many Connate cultivators discussed.


    Overall, there was a feeling of indifference to the matter.


    After all, Essence Soul realm existences were distant entities to them. Their affairs felt vague and insubstantial.


    For instance, the Scenic Mountain Sect only had one Essence Soul entity due to its decline. In the past few millennia, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' Cloudfiend Mountain rose to prominence but it only had five fiendcelestials! This was a result of the external help given by the Other Realm Fiendcelestials. It became evident that producing an Essence Soul realm existence was not easy. Most Connate cultivators had no way to make contact with Essence Soul existences.


    They did not know each other nor was there any contact.


    So what if two died? Their existence felt like a fairytale anyway.


    ¡­


    The Connate cultivators felt like they had heard an astounding fairytale but the various large factions in the world began investigating the matter carefully. After all, the perishing of two Essence Soul entities simultaneously was no trifling matter. Was there a secret behind the incident?


    Investigations were launched everywhere.


    The angriest was obviously Cloudfiend Mountain!


    "Mountain Lord." A gargantuan monkey demon sat effusing a cadaveric. He looked at the plump elder in front of him and said, "I have already done the divination inference."


    "Brother Monkey, how is it?" the plump elder pressed. He was Cloudfiend Mountain''s Mountain Lord.


    "I can only infer that the deed was done in a Grotto-heaven in Yellow Wyrm Lake. The murderer of Jadeface and that Black Dragon is the same person." The gargantuan monkey demon had an old-sounding voice. He shook his head gently. "As for who the murderer is, there are layers of mist concealing him. I cannot see it clearly."


    "He''s being concealed?" The plump elder was perplexed.


    "The Heavens have secrets they want to be concealed. I''m unable to see through it with my capability." The monkey demon shook his head.


    Cloudfiend Mountain Lord nodded slightly.


    The monkey demon was one of the three most ancient fiendcelestials of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. He was also Patriarch Monkey of the Boor Ancestral Sect. He was the best in the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons when it came to divining the secrets of the Heavens.


    "Thank you, Brother Monkey," said Cloudfiend Mountain Lord immediately. "It seems I have to head to Yellow Wyrm Lake to investigate the matter. I shall not overstay my welcome."


    Patriarch Monkey nodded slightly.


    Cloudfiend Mountain Lord immediately turned around and departed in a flash.


    ******


    The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, the imperial government, the Daoist and Buddhist sects, and the Four Seas'' Water race all attempted to uncover the matter in their own ways. After all, everyone had different tricks when it came to discovering the Heaven''s secrets. It was just a matter of skill.


    But there was no exception this time. None of them could determine the identity of the murderer.


    Who was the murderer? It became a mystery!


    As for the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven? Cloudfiend Mountain Lord was the first to head there and discover it. It was naturally exposed, but the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven had long been cleaned out and was riddled with holes.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance City.


    Qin Yun accompanied his wife Yi Xiao as they walked leisurely on the streets. They even held street-side snacks they had bought along the way.


    "Brother Yun," asked Yi Xiao. "I have something to ask you."


    "I sensed you were feeling hesitant when we came out. Just ask me directly," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "I just heard some news," said Yi Xiao immediately. "I heard that the two Essence Soul realm existences, Palatial Lord Black Dragon and Sovereign Fiend Jadeface, have lost their lives. I previously heard that you might encounter Black Dragon at Yellow Wyrm Lake! But now, with the addition of Jadeface¡­ I''m suspecting¡­"


    "There''s no need to suspect." Qin Yun nodded. "They were both killed by me."


    Yi Xiao was alarmed.


    "I was afraid of trouble and that people would disturb our peace, so I kept it a secret," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao smiled and nodded. "Elder Sword became a legend that has been spread to this day because he killed a fiendcelestial as a mortal. Brother Yun, you killed two of them at once. If this were to spread, it might cause the world to stir."


    "It''s nothing worth mentioning." Qin Yun shook his head slightly. He did not even expend much effort killing the two.


    ¡­


    And on the other side of Grand Dominance City. In Hong Manor.


    Hong Lingtong sat cross-legged inside a chamber. There was an ancient turtle shell''s phantom floating behind him and its interior seemed to contain a massive cosmic microcosm. There were also six tokens floating around Hong Lingtong as they vacillated in midair.


    Hong Lingtong''s expression turned pale as he tried his best at divining.


    He used all he had¡­


    Scene after scene appeared.


    "Yellow Wyrm Lake¡­"


    "Inside the Grotto-heaven¡­"


    "That is¡ª"


    The blurry figure was concealed by a mist. However, as Hong Lingtong continued his divining, the mist gradually dissipated, revealing the figure clearly.


    It was a very familiar face to Hong Lingtong.


    "Qin Yun?" Hong Lingtong opened his eyes in shock. His face was pale and his forehead was covered in sweat.


    "It''s him? The person who killed Fiend Sovereign Jadeface and Palatial Lord Black Dragon is Brother Qin Yun?" Hong Lingtong found it unbelievable.


    (End of Volume)

 311 Danger

    Chapter 311: Danger


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Hong Lingtong''s face was ghostly pale because the act of divination was very demanding on him. But even beside that, what he saw filled his eyes with shock. "I never expected it to be Brother Qin Yun! Perhaps the world would never even expect that the person who killed Fiend Sovereign Jadeface and Palatial Lord Black Dragon is a Connate Golden Core sword immortal. Brother Qin Yun has not even cultivated for forty years but he has already reached such a stage?"


    "Could he have had a similar experience to mine?"


    "Im¡­Impossible!"


    Hong Lingtong shook his head gently. "He cultivates in the sword immortal lineage. They lack a Dharmic formulation that can condense an Essence Soul. In addition, Sword Immortal Quintessential Essence is too overbearing. It prevents them from converting their cultivation! Choosing the sword immortal lineage only limits one''s future prospects. They are unable to become immortal. Therefore, he must have cultivated normally."


    "But that means...a mortal sword immortal that cultivates normally managed to slay two Essence Soul experts?"


    "Isn''t his talent a little too terrifying?"


    Hong Lingtong could not help but sigh.


    Due to the cultivation system he adhered to, he did not like to owe karma.


    However, throughout his long growth process, he had indeed received Qin Yun''s help numerous times. He naturally thought Qin Yun as a good friend. They were even in-laws! He did believe that Qin Yun was a peerless genius in the way of the sword, but he still only considered Qin Yun an ordinary sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao. As such, Hong Lingtong did not pay much attention to Qin Yun despite him being a genius.


    However, what he divined today left him astounded.


    "Such talent, such perception is truly stunning." Hong Lingtong shook his head. "Unfortunately, he is of the sword immortal lineage."


    It was impossible to convert from the top Dharmic formulations such as the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma or sword immortal lineage.


    Instead, it was the weaker lineages that had a chance of conversion.


    Therefore, the sword immortal lineage in history might have produced some powerful sword immortals that had stepped into the Dao, and that Dao realm was sufficient to condense an Essence Soul. Unfortunately, they were unable to convert their cultivation. When their end came, they were still reduced to dust.


    "He silently killed two Essence Soul experts. His strength is far above Elder Sword''s. In that way, Brother Qin Yun is of great use." Hong Lingtong nodded slightly.


    He consumed a pill as he sat in his chamber and regulated his condition for a long while.


    Only when he recovered most of his mental strength did Hong Lingtong wave his hand. Six tokens flew out and swirled around him. He began another round of divination.


    Hum!


    The ancient turtle shell phantom appeared behind him. In it was a cosmic microcosm.


    As he continued divining, illusions of a gigantic continent and oceans surrounding it appeared in the chamber! The land and sea were the Great Chang empire''s nineteen prefectures, the northern lands'' demons, and the vast Four Seas.


    At different points in the illusion of land and sea, there were red spots suffusing evil auras.


    "The last time I made a divination, there were a total of nineteen sources of the world''s catastrophe." Hong Lingtong scanned around as his expression changed slightly. "Oh? Why are there twenty spots now? One more has appeared?"


    "The wreaking of havoc by ordinary great fiendish demons is not a threat to the world at large. They are unable to harm its foundation. The things that I divine are true catastrophes." Hong Lingtong frowned. "This world has Human Emperor, Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Patriarch Bai, Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang, and Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva. They have held back many dangers. Nineteen are left but the most dangerous ones are being suppressed. Why would there be a new one now?"


    "Typically, it would be rare for even one new catastrophe to appear every thousand years."


    Hong Lingtong felt a sense of foreboding.


    The eruption of a catastrophe had unpredictable consequences.


    Just like the Scenic Mountain Sect of yesteryear. It had been destroyed during the last catastrophe when the world was in chaos! It was only rebuilt by the remnant disciples that lived. Even to this very day, they were far from fully recovering.


    "This new catastrophe appears to be in Cloud Prefecture''s Qiyang County''s Zhangfu Province." Hong Lingtong looked at the location of the new catastrophe source he divined. Following that, he took out his Inspect Heavenly Token. "The Inspector Heavenly Alliance surveys the world. Let''s see if there has been any special news regarding the area around this catastrophe source."


    Hong Lingtong browsed through the news from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    He was also at the Connate Golden Core realm and enjoyed a high standing. The Inspector Heavenly Alliance prioritized sending him important information! However, Hong Lingtong could not be bothered to read ordinary pieces of information. He continuously received all sorts of information on a daily basis and there was just too much of it. Furthermore, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance highlighted the truly important matters.


    "Qiyang County''s Zhangfu Province really does have something going on." Hong Lingtong''s expression changed. "Just yesterday, three villages villagers were slaughtered, making for 11,000 dead. All their bodies were dessicated as though they had their flesh and blood sucked dry. It is suspected that they were slaughtered by fiendish demons."


    "Three villages were decimated at once?"


    Hong Lingtong frowned.


    "I''ll go and take a look." He immediately got up and left the chamber.


    The matter was tied to the appearance of a new catastrophe so Hong Lingtong naturally paid full attention to it. He immediately flew out of Grand Dominance City and headed for Cloud Prefecture.


    ¡­


    Cloud Prefecture, Qiyang County''s Zhangfu Province.


    Hong Lingtong flew all the way at an extremely fast speed that could match certain Essence Soul experts. He also knew that no one was watching him. In fact, Qin Yun before he stepped into the Dao could not match Hong Lingtong''s speed even with his Beam Transformation Art.


    "I''ve arrived."


    Hong Lingtong gradually descended as he looked over the area.


    There was a dead and silent village beneath him. It was one of the three massacred villages.


    Hong Lingtong''s eyes emitted a faint golden light as he looked beneath him. He could see different auras churning in different spots in the village beneath him. They were either green, mud-yellow, or red in color¡­ All sorts of auras were billowing.


    "Fiendish demons massacre humans and suck the power from their flesh and blood so that they can sacrifice it to Other Realm Fiendcelestials." Hong Lingtong frowned. "This is very common! Before Brother Qin Yun purged the world of fiendish demons, it was common for those great fiendish demons to massacre humans."


    The sacrifice of the power of flesh and blood could be used to buy the aid of Other Realm Fiendcelestials. In exchange, the fiendish demons would receive treasures or have their strength enhanced.


    After all, there were some fiendish demons who were stuck at cultivation bottlenecks and were incapable of breaking through! However, if they sacrificed to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials, their strength could undergo a fast breakthrough! Naturally, many fiendish demons engaged in this pattern of slaughter and sacrifice.


    "I''ll visit the other two villagers."


    Sou!


    Moments later, Hong Lingtong saw the other two villages. What he found puzzled him greatly.


    "It looks like they have only been massacred and had their flesh and blood sucked dry. Why would this be considered a catastrophe?" Hong Lingtong was baffled. "There is absolutely nothing wrong with my divination. This is a warning from the Heavenly Dao!"


    "Catastrophe¡­"


    Hong Lingtong felt very vexed.


    If he could figure out what the catastrophe was, he could immediately inform the imperial government or the three sacred lands. They could be implored to quickly resolve the matter!


    But clearly, his investigations had proved futile.


    ¡­


    On the other side of Cloud Prefecture.


    Thousands of villagers from another village collapsed silently. All of their bodies were dry, leaving only skin and bones.


    "Whoosh."


    Above the village was a purple-robed youth. He took a deep breath as the billowing blood-colored streams flew into his mouth, and then swallowed them into his belly.


    "Boom!" The clouds in the sky rumbled as lightning accumulated.


    "Oh?" The purple-robed youth, He Qian, immediately cast a Dharma spell to conceal his body as he rapidly departed the area.


    After the dark clouds in the sky gathered, they slowly dissipated when they failed to find their target.


    After flying hundreds of kilometers away, He Qian looked up at the sky and said with a scoff, "This Heavenly Dao is not a sentient being after all. Now that I''ve borrowed a local body of this world, and with the aid of mystic arts, I''m able to easily fool these stupid Heavens."


    "Heh heh, I have been preparing for the past few years. Now that my preparations are almost done, the darn Heavens have discovered my identity right as I begin slaughtering these ants to amass their blood and flesh?" He Qian scoffed. "So what if it discovers me? I chanced upon Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body and abandoned my original body to forcibly descend into this world. I spared at no expense and paid such a huge price. How can I not reap the benefits?"


    "Soon."


    "It''s almost time for the harvest." He Qian left quietly.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance City.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were having breakfast together.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the Inspect Heavenly Token before frowning.


    "What is it?" Yi Xiao put down her utensils.


    "The Inspector Heavenly Alliance has important information for me. I have to read it carefully." Qin Yun frowned as he read it and soon, his expression changed. "Who is it that dares act so blatantly? Over the past seven days, tragedy has befallen five areas. The number of humans massacred ranged from a few thousand to thirty thousand an area. In just seven days, nearly eighty thousand humans have been massacred."


    "That many?" Yi Xiao was alarmed as well. "Brother Yun, you have been slaying fiendish demons all across the world. Haven''t they been hiding in fear? It has been so long since fiendish demons dared act this blatantly."


    "The humans have been sucked dry of their flesh and blood. Clearly, they were killed for the power contained within their flesh and blood so that it can be sacrificed to Other Realm Fiendcelestials." Qin Yun''s expression turned nasty. "Perhaps it''s a great fiendish demon that has reached a bottleneck. He''s risking it all, going on a killing spree so that he can sacrifice to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials and obtain a breakthrough. The imperial government and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance have been investigating but they have failed to discover anything. That''s why they have requested my help."

 312 Astounding Treasure Halo

    Chapter 312: Astounding Treasure Halo


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao nodded solemnly. "Such mindless slaughter is indeed rare, especially after you have slain many of the world''s fiendish demons. The other fiendish demons have been in hiding and some of them have even hidden among humans. This matter might be the work of a particular great fiendish demon who is approaching the end of its life. It seeks to break through at all costs."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    He had indeed sent the fiendish demons of the world scurrying in fear because of his deeds. But if it was a result of an ending lifespan, those that were about to die naturally didn''t care about the threat of Qin Yun.


    "I''ll make a trip later to investigate." Qin Yun could not repress the pangs of fury and sadness in him. How many families did nearly eighty thousand humans make? And all of them wiped out, just like that! To Qin Yun, those eighty thousand people were not a statistic. They were all living, breathing humans. Qin Yun had personally witnessed many demons wreaking havoc.


    Therefore, he hated all of this.


    Despite knowing that he would incur hate from the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, he continued killing all the fiendish demons in the world. Every single one he discovered was killed! He made sure to make the fiendish demons in the world reel in fear.


    If he were only capable of living for five centuries, he was going to spend them shocking and awing the fiendish demons!


    "Brother Yun," said Yi Xiao immediately. "The imperial government and Inspector Heavenly Alliance have failed to discover the murderer''s identity. You probably won''t be able to find anything either. They have techniques meant for tracking and divining but they have not succeeded."


    "I''ll take a look first," said Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    An hour later.


    Qin Yun arrived in the clouds above a village. There were people from the imperial government there clearing up the mess, with many corpses being cremated.


    "Indeed, they have been sucked dry of their flesh and blood." Qin Yun stood in the clouds as he overlooked the village. He looked at the bodies of all ages and sizes that were only skin and bones. His heart winced for them as his killing intent grew.


    "These corpses do not have any external injuries but are all tainted by an evil aura. Clearly, they were not killed in close combat. Instead, they had their flesh and blood sucked from a great distance away." Qin Yun frowned. "It appears to the work of a very powerful fiendish demon. I estimate the demon to be at least the Connate True Core realm, or even at the Connate Golden Core realm."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out his Inspect Heavenly Token.


    Buzz.


    A phantom appeared in the clouds. It was none other than Hong Lingtong.


    "Brother Qin Yun," greeted Hong Lingtong with a smile.


    "Brother Hong, you seem to spend all your time cultivating at home. You seldom interact with the world''s cultivators. That''s not very nice. You should come out more often. In cultivation, isolated cultivating is important but so is traveling to gain experience," said Qin Yun. He felt mixed emotions. If he counted the dream of a hundred years, he had not seen his good friend for more than a hundred years. He found him a little unfamiliar.


    Qin Yun''s impression of Hong Lingtong was that he was a man who would frequently risk his life to adventure for treasures and opportunities early on.


    But ever since he reached the Connate Golden Core realm, Hong Lingtong almost never left his residence. There was no talk about who he interacted with during the few times he left his residence! In the entire world, Hong Lingtong was considered a very unique and independent Connate Golden Core cultivator! He did everything alone.


    "Haha, yes. I should come out more often. In fact, I do have such plans in the near future." Hong Lingtong nodded. With the appearance of a new catastrophe, he obviously had to investigate it carefully.


    "By the way, Brother Hong, there is something I need your help with. Quickly come to the Lu Prefecture''s White Dawn Lake," said Qin Yun.


    "White Dawn Lake? Are you investigating that fiendish demon''s massacre?" Hong Lingtong knew the moment he heard that.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Alright, I''ll be there in a little while." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    After some time, Hong Lingtong arrived and met up with Qin Yun.


    "Why don''t these fiendish demons learn from the Skydemon Palace or the Four Seas'' Dragon race, living peacefully with us humans? Why do they have to be enticed by Other Realm Fiendcelestials and sacrifice the lives of us humans?" Qin Yun stood in the clouds as he overlooked the area. He felt sorrowful and helpless. He was after all only one man. He could reduce the harm fiendish demons brought to the world but he could not completely eradicate it.


    "How much can their strength increase by cultivating arduously?" remarked Hong Lingtong. "Stuck in the Connate False Core realm, possibly never to break through their entire lives. And by simply killing a few humans and sacrificing them to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials, an easy breakthrough can be made. Their strength will increase tremendously! They can crush their past foes beneath their feet and most importantly, their lifespans will greatly increase. These fiendish demons naturally flock to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials when promised such things."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    There was no other way about it.


    "I have previously probed the village below us. All I can determine is that the murderer is at the Connate True Core realm. At the very least I can''t manage to figure out anything else." Qin Yun looked at Hong Lingtong. "Aren''t you skilled at divining the past and future? Take a look and see what happened to this village and who the murderer is."


    "Brother Qin Yun." Hong Lingtong shook his head helplessly. "I have already attempted to divine this important matter earlier. However, the murderer has a strange treasure on him that allows him to hide from the Heavens. In short, I can''t identify him at all."


    Yes.


    Hong Lingtong had attempted but found nothing. And he was the only one who could figure out that Qin Yun was the murderer of Jadeface and Black Dragon!


    However, he was unable to identify the murderer who had slaughtered the humans and sucked out their flesh and blood. This left Hong Lingtong rather astonished because he knew that his divining powers had nearly reached their peak. They were definitely sufficient to be considered best in the world. Yet, he failed to discover anything. That meant that the other party was very good at hiding from the Heavens.


    "If you can''t figure it out, I wonder if the imperial government or the Daoist sacred lands are capable of doing so." Qin Yun frowned. The imperial government and Daoist sacred lands had even more methods available to them. If they put in the time, it was possible for them to make some progress.


    "It will be difficult unless there is a new clue." Hong Lingtong shook his head. "Brother Qin Yun, let''s go to the other places to take a look. We might be able to find some clues there."


    "Good idea."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The duo rapidly flew away to investigate the other areas that had experienced a massacre.


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong flew to a spot above a huge village at the foot of a mountain. They were looking for even the most minute clues. With Qin Yun''s strength, he could use his Dao domain to probe the entire village thoroughly.


    ¡­


    And at that moment, about four hundred kilometers away from them.


    There was a cave in the middle of a nameless mountain peak. Sitting cross-legged inside it was the purple-robed He Qian. He was none other than the serial murderer.


    He Qian chuckled as he looked west. His eyes could easily see four hundred kilometers away. He could even see the pores on Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong''s faces.


    "Qin Yun? Haha, that Nine Mountain Island Lord made the decision to finally abandon his mountain body because of him. It gave me the chance to descend into this world." He Qian''s eyes suddenly lit up. "That Hong Lingtong can be ignored. The treasure halo on him is only ordinary. But that Qin Yun¡­ The treasure halo on him is dazzling! It''s so bright that I''m nearly blinded."


    He Qian was somewhat excited.


    He was naturally able to observe treasure halos with his strength.


    Qin Yun had received a bountiful harvest from the Ancient Skydragon Palace and his near dismantling of the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven. Furthermore, he had killed Jadeface and Black Dragon, taking all the treasures they had gathered over their long lives. All of this added up gave Qin Yun treasures that even a typical second Firmament Essence Soul realm expert could not match.


    "I really never expected a mortal sword immortal to have that many treasures."


    He Qian was somewhat excited. "He must have received a great opportunity for him to have so many treasures. Haha, it looks like my luck is pretty good! All I did was spy from a distance to see who went to those villages and from that, I have found Qin Yun who has so many treasures."


    "Once I gather enough flesh and blood, I can construct the World Altar."


    "I descended into this world through direct possession. I did not bring any treasures. Constructing the World Altar requires large amounts of materials and treasures. It''s up to me alone to amass many amazing treasures."


    "It''s too difficult to obtain treasures by killing Essence Soul realm experts. I would have to kill several of them to have any hopes of amassing the required amount. Besides, Human Emperor and Ancestral Master Zhang might rush over to provide reinforcements at any moment." He Qian knew this point. He knew that the complexity of the world he was in ran deep. "I was planning on seeking out the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons and cooperating with one of its lineages. I could get them to provide me with treasures, but in that case the credit upon success would be split."


    "And if the World Altar is constructed by me alone, all the credit will be mine."


    "Qin Yun?"


    "With my strength, wouldn''t killing Qin Yun be as simple as squashing a bug?" The corners of He Qian''s mouth curled up. Although he maintained his strength at the Connate Golden Core, he was an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that had cultivated for ages! He still remained at a very high level.


    "There''s no rush. In a few more days, I''ll have gathered all the flesh and blood power I need. I will then kill Qin Yun and take his treasures. I''ll leave the treasures with him for now." He Qian was in a very good mood. To him, gathering the treasures needed for the World Altar was much harder than gathering the required flesh and blood. There were countless people in the world''s nineteen prefectures. It was rather simple to drain as many as he needed.


    ¡­


    After a round of investigations, Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong similarly failed to discover the murderer''s identity. All they could do was return to Grand Dominance helplessly.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao quickly came to greet him when she saw Qin Yun land. "How was it?"


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    "I failed to find out anything. Xiaoxiao, I plan on setting off early tomorrow morning," said Qin Yun. "I''m going to rid the world of those Paramount realm fiendish demons."


    "Are you going to take action already?" Yi Xiao long knew of Qin Yun''s plans.


    "Yes. I might have slain fiendish demons years ago, causing many great fiendish demons to hide in the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' nest but there are still some Paramount realm fiendish demons that have shown no fear towards me," said Qin Yun. "I was unable to do anything about them at the time."


    There were still Paramount realm fiendish demons that occupied an area and declared themselves kings.


    There were two located on land! Three from the Water race!


    "I have succeeded in stepping into the Dao. That means it''s time to deal with them," said Qin Yun.

 313 Wiped Out All At Once

    Chapter 313: Wiped Out All At Once


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Perhaps the murderer is one of the five Paramount realm fiendish demons," said Yi Xiao.


    "Maybe."


    Qin Yun sighed lightly. "To countless commoners, a Connate fiendish demon is strong enough to slaughter everything they know and love."


    Thankfully, the world''s most terrifying immortals and fiendcelestials were bound by the heavenly rules! The powerful fiendcelestials were unable to directly slaughter mortals but they could collude with Other Realm Fiendcelestials, shaking the world at its roots. The devastation they caused was in fact worse.


    "Brother Yun, if you were to kill any of the five Paramount realm fiendish demons, the news would probably spread throughout the world. When that happens, the other four will flee in fear," said Yi Xiao.


    "Yes, that''s problematic," said Qin Yun. "I cannot kill them right away. Instead, I''ll have to capture them alive one by one¡­ Then, I''ll kill them all at once! Also, when I''m capturing them alive, I cannot allow them to request for help! Once they do so, the world''s fiendish demons will quickly know what I''m doing."


    Yi Xiao nodded slightly. It was indeed troublesome.


    "I''ll do my best. I''ll do my best to wipe them out all at once. Each of these great fiendish demons has their hands stained with the blood of us humans. I cannot let any of them escape." Qin Yun began thinking of a strategy to deal with them.


    ¡­


    Qian Prefecture''s Wolf Mountain.


    Wolf Mountain spanned a hundred and fifty kilometers and was home to countless demons. Back when Qin Yun was wiping out the fiendish demons of the world, the demons in Wolf Mountain remained carefree because their leader was Patriarch Wolf Mountain, a great fiendish demon with strength at the Paramount realm.


    "Huff~"


    "Puff~"


    A gargantuan silver wolf lay sprawled out with his eyes closed as he breathed slowly.


    His breaths formed winds that howled through the surrounding woods. His body resembled a tiny mountain.


    Although he had his eyes shut, he could still clearly sense everything happening around him. Furthermore, he was in control of an array formation that protected him.


    "Patriarch."


    There were many wolf demons a distance away. Due to Patriarch Wolf Mountain, Wolf Mountain had an excessive number of wolf demons. Many of them were children or grandchildren of Patriarch Wolf Mountain. They often descended the mountain to pillage and kidnap humans. Although Qin Yun was powerful, he was only one man. It was impossible for him to guard against such a huge horde of lesser demons.


    What he needed to do was vanquish the leader!


    As for the lesser demons? Once they lost their backer, local Connate realm cultivators would naturally hunt them down!


    "This Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s lair has an array formation that spans about ten kilometers." Qin Yun overlooked the area beneath him from the clouds. The array formation was already considered rather large, allowing it to envelop a tiny city. For example, back when Qin Yun reaped a huge harvest from the Immortal Cave Abode, many array formations were set up that only managed to envelop an area the size of Grand Dominance City. In comparison, the yellow flood dragon lineage at Yellow Wyrm Lake had a history of tens of thousands of years. The array formation there had enclosed an area that spanned fifty kilometers.


    Wolf Mountain had only a mere ten kilometers.


    "My Dao domain spans twenty-five kilometers. It can easily envelop the entire array formation," thought Qin Yun. "I can instantly wrestle away control of the array formation and even destroy the array''s nodes."


    "It''s time."


    Qin Yun was only seventy to eighty percent certain that he could capture the other party alive without allowing them to request for help.


    ¡­


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain was laying there when suddenly his lair''s array formation distorted.


    "Oh?"


    The gargantuan silver wolf suddenly stood and looked ahead.


    The distant lesser demons were alarmed. What had happened?


    "Who is it?" shouted the silver wolf with a deep tone. He was puzzled. "What array master is able to crack my array formation?"


    He was a Paramount realm great fiendish demon after all. Essence Soul realm existences could not attack him even if they wanted to. Therefore, he was always filled with confidence when facing any danger. Even though something had happened to his array formation, he remained calm.


    "Boom!"


    Gravel suddenly flew up around the silver wolf.


    "What happened?"


    "What happened?"


    The surrounding lesser demons were alarmed. They looked on in confusion as their master was engulfed by darkness amid the swirling gravel.


    "Children, I''ll go out to take a look." A strong wind whistled through the sky as Patriarch Wolf Mountain''s voice sounded. Where he once stood was now empty.


    "Did Patriarch go out?"


    "Perhaps he went to pursue the intruder."


    The lesser demons were filled with guesses but none of them panicked. They were confident in their patriarch.


    ******


    At that moment, Patriarch Wolf Mountain had been reduced to a tiny silver-colored wolf about ten feet long. A rope bound him by encircling him a few times. The other end of the rope was in Qin Yun''s hand.


    Patriarch Wolf Mountain was panicking and pleading. "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me! Spare me, please!"


    A moment ago, he felt his Dharmic powers sealed and he was unable to say a word. As for his reassuring words, ''Children, I''ll go out to take a look,'' they were faked by Qin Yun through the use of Dharmic powers.


    "Spare you?" Qin Yun held the rope and gently shook his head at the captured Patriarch Wolf Mountain.


    The only flaw of a sneak attack was the need to first crack the array formation.


    If the Paramount realm fiendish demon sought help the moment the array was cracked, Qin Yun would have been out of luck.


    "Paramount realm fiendish demons are used to being seen as high and mighty. By taking advantage of this, I have a chance of capturing each and every one of them," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    After capturing Patriarch Wolf Mountain, he went to one area after another. He threw Patriarch Wolf Mountain, who had all his strength sealed, aside. Even his mouth was sealed. He used a similar method to capture the Paramount realm fiendish demon that ruled the land, Valley Lord Fountainjade.


    Following that, he rushed to the South Sea, East Sea, and the North Sea.


    The targets were Patriarch Crocdragon, Consort Snake, and Palatial Lord Icedragon.


    Paramount realm fiendish demons were indeed arrogant. They believed that no one in the world could do a thing to them. None of them thought to seek help when they noticed that an intruder was attempting to crack their arrays. Naturally, all of them were captured one after the other. Soon, there was only the last target left, Palatial Lord Icedragon.


    ¡­


    North Sea, Icedragon Palace.


    "Hahaha¡­" Decked in frost ice scaled armor, a youth with a dragon head sat in the seat of honor. He overlooked the area beneath him where demons had gathered. He smiled and said, "Everyone, this is an auspicious day for me to take in my fifty-ninth concubine. I''m honored that all of you have graced me with your presence. Here, bottoms up!"


    "Brother Icedragon, congratulations!"


    "Haha, Brother Icedragon, you sure have good fortune in love. I''m very envious."


    "The wine is good but there''s no meat."


    The demons were drinking alcohol. The seats of honor were mainly filled by the more powerful demons from the North Sea''s Water race. There were also a few Connate Golden Core demons among them.


    "Hahaha, of course there is meat. Here!" The dragon-headed youth laughed as he gave the order. "Quick, serve the human fruits."


    Soon after, beautiful Water race female attendants carried plates over. Human babies were sleeping soundly on them. All of them looked very young and they were thoroughly cleaned.


    "These human babies are less than a hundred days old. They are excellent human fruits. My men went ashore recently to kidnap them specially for today''s joyous occasion." The youth laughed and said, "They are all alive too. They are at their freshest and tenderest when alive. Everyone, please enjoy yourselves."


    "To gather so many infants that are less than a hundred days old. That''s not a simple task."


    "Brother Icedragon is truly formidable."


    "Ever since the humans produced a powerful Connate Golden Core sword immortal, we have been forced into hiding. Only Brother Icedragon has the guts and capability to pull something like this off."


    "Why would Brother Icedragon need to fear a mere Qin Yun?"


    There was a round of laughter. The eyes of the Water race demons could not help but light up when they looked at the infants.


    "Qin Yun? He is only a sword immortal that has stepped into an ordinary Dao. If he were to come to the bottom of the sea, his strength would decrease too¡­ Why should I fear him?" said the dragon-headed youth with a laugh.


    "Boom!!!"


    The entire Icedragon Palace shook.


    "Who dares attack my Icedragon Palace''s array formation?" The youth''s expression changed as his eyes were filled with rage.


    A gust of wind blew.


    In the middle of the Icedragon Palace''s hall, a gray-robed youth with a sword by his waist appeared. He held a rope, and on the other end of the rope were four bound fiendish demons.


    "You are¡­" The dragon-headed youth looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, what are you doing here in my Icedragon Palace?"


    "Patriarch Crocdragon?"


    "Consort Snake? Valley Lord Fountainjade? Patriarch Wolf Mountain?"


    There was a round of gasping exclamations all around.


    The sight of the rope-like Dharma treasure in Qin Yun''s hand binding four great fiendish demons stunned the surrounding demons.


    "You¡­" The dragon-headed youth noticed it too. Consort Snake and Patriarch Crocdragon were Water race fiendish demons. They were stronger in water than on land and were as strong as him. Yet, they had been captured alive? Furthermore, he had not heard any news of it. This horrified him.


    "Didn''t someone just say you aren''t afraid of me?" Qin Yun smiled at the dragon-headed youth.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, there are no grudges between us. I¡­" said the dragon-headed youth immediately as he backed away in horror.


    "No grudges?" Qin Yun glanced at the infants on the plates and his eyes were filled with coldness. He swept his gaze across the surrounding demons. Many of those sitting in the hall were famous and powerful fiendish demons. "Not one of you in this hall shall leave."

 314 Boundless Meri

    Chapter 314: Boundless Merit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    All the guests in the hall felt like they were sitting on pins and needles. They were terrified. When Qin Yun said "Not one of you in this hall shall leave," many demons felt faint.


    They were doomed!


    They were truly doomed.


    There was even a demon present that went limp in the legs. He fell from his seat to the ground, flipping over the surrounding alcohol flasks and cups. His utensils crashed to the ground but no one dared mocked the unfortunate demon. They felt too much like him to make a joke of it.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me!"


    "These human fruits¡­ no! Human infants. These human infants have nothing to do with us. Icedragon had his lesser demons kidnap them."


    "It was all done by Palatial Lord Icedragon. It has nothing to do with us."


    The demons shouted one after another.


    While refuting and pleading, they secretly and fervently sent out messages for help.


    "Master, save me! Save me! The human sword immortal, Qin Yun has managed to capture Consort Snake, Patriarch Crocdragon, Valley Lord Fountainjade, and Patriarch Wolf Mountain! He wants to kill us now. I''m in the North Sea''s Icedragon Palace!"


    "Patriarch, save me¡­"


    "It''s Qin Yun! The human Qin Yun is in the North Sea''s Icedragon Palace¡­"


    All of them sent out frantic calls for help.


    For them to be able to cultivate to their respective realms, they naturally had a faction backing them. Some were even from the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. There were others who were minions of particular Essence Soul realm fiendish demons of the Water race.


    As they frantically sought help, the news rapidly spread.


    Qin Yun thought nothing of it. He deliberately appeared in the middle of this feast instead of secretly capturing Palatial Lord Icedragon because he wanted to expose himself! He wanted to make it known to all! When spread, the news of him slaying five Paramount realm great fiendish demons would cause shock and awe!


    "There is not a single good demon in this hall of demons." Qin Yun swept the area with his gaze. He compared them one by one to the intelligence gathered by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. He could not help but scoff. "It''s true that one is marked by the company they keep. None of those that have a close relationship with the ice dragon are good."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, is there no room for negotiation?" Icedragon said in a sullen voice. He was a Paramount realm fiendish demon, after all. They were right in the middle of his lair and he had yet to activate his array formation. He naturally wasn''t willing to die without putting up a fight.


    As for the four fiendish demons that were bound by Qin Yun''s rope-like Dharma treasure, they looked at him coldly.


    The four of them were already wallowing in despair.


    At the same time, they knew how terrifying Qin Yun was. They knew how things were about to go for Icedragon. Resistance was futile.


    "Escape!" Icedragon suddenly moved.


    All the demons in the hall moved at the same time.


    They scattered in every possible direction.


    "No matter how powerful Qin Yun is, he''s only a sword immortal. There are so many demons here. He will take a while to kill us one by one. While he''s busy slaying, some of us will be able to escape."


    "Everyone, flee separately. He can only kill half of us at best. Perhaps we might have a chance of living."


    The demons held such hopes.


    Icedragon was powering the array formation with all his might as he fled crazily.


    "What a joke."


    Qin Yun simply stood in his spot as his Dao domain instantly destroyed the Icedragon Palace''s array formation.


    At the same time, whistling sounds were heard as large amounts of Sword Qi flew out from Qin Yun''s body. Wisps flew out in every direction, and each wisp of Sword Qi was extremely sharp. They easily penetrated the demons'' bodies. A wisp of Sword Qi would even form a curved trajectory that killed seven or eight demons successively. As they died, the demons could only look on, horrified. "He released so much Sword Qi, yet he is able to easily kill all of us?"


    It happened in nearly an instant.


    All the Connate realm demons in the hall died. Even Icedragon, who was trying to escape, lost his life after being penetrated by a wisp of Sword Qi.


    Icedragon widened his eyes and found it unbelievable up to the moment of his death. "What? He did not even use his Dharma treasure. A mere wisp of Sword Qi is enough to kill me?"


    It was considered normal for a sword immortal that had stepped into the Dao to kill other Connate realm demons with a wisp of Sword Qi.


    However, it was terrifying to kill a Paramount realm great fiendish demon with a wisp of Sword Qi.


    "Run!" When the shout to flee was made, the Water race female attendants ran in panic. However, when they fled the hall in a fluster, they turned to realize that all the high and mighty great demons that had the power to rule over their lives were dead. Instead, lesser demons like themselves were left alive.


    "It''s said that Sword Immortal Qin abhors evil. He probably knew that we didn''t commit any evil."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is a lot more benevolent than our Palatial Lord."


    The Water race attendants could not help but have such thoughts.


    When Qin Yun killed the great demons, he purposely spared the female Water race attendants. He was aware that the female attendants who served great demons would not engage in combat or cause destruction outside. They were often at their masters'' mercy, and could be killed at any moment whenever great demons vented their rage.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun put away his rope-like Dharma treasure. The four Paramount realm demons that had been bound were already dead. When Qin Yun killed Icedragon, his Dharmic powers had simultaneously struck the four and killed them.


    With that, the dominoes started falling¡ª


    Many great demons in the world realized that the marks of Consort Snake, Patriarch Wolf Mountain, and company had simultaneously vanished from their transmission treasures.


    "Obliterate."


    He commanded with a thought.


    All the corpses in the hall were decimated. Qin Yun also stored away some of their Dharma treasures.


    "Time to leave." Following that, he left with the wind and began his return journey to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance.


    ¡­


    In one day, Qin Yun slew five Paramount realm demons.


    The news instantly spread throughout the world.


    It made many demons in the world tremble in fear. Numerous cultivators gave their kudos!


    "Haha, for Sword Immortal Qin to kill Paramount realm demons, it seems like he has made another breakthrough after stepping into the Dao."


    "He managed to silently finish five great fiendish demons. Sword Immortal Qin''s present strength is probably comparable to Elder Sword in his prime."


    "That might not necessarily be true. Sword Immortal Qin simultaneously killed five Paramount realm demons. That is impressive, but Elder Sword killed a fiendcelestial back then."


    "Tsk. Sword Immortal Qin doesn''t mind offending the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. He slays the fiendish demons of the world out of a sense of justice. That righteous character of his alone is not something Elder Sword can compare with."


    "Indeed! Speaking of which, I''m very impressed with Sword Immortal Qin too."


    Many cultivators around the world had such discussions.


    Fiendish demons wreaked havoc in the world. Many cultivators had a vendetta against the fiendish demons. What Qin Yun did excited many cultivators greatly. They were filled with reverence for him.


    After all¡­


    All the powerful fiendish demons that ruled over an area in the world, be it on land or in the water, had been killed by Qin Yun! The remaining ones had gone into hiding in the sects that backed them. Qin Yun''s strength was insufficient to do anything to a massive entity like the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons.


    "I would never have imagined that all the powerful fiendish demons who entrenched themselves in the various prefectures a decade ago could be killed at once."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is truly formidable in the way he acts. Fiendish demons either hide in their sects or risk being slain if they wreak havoc outside."


    "Boundless merit. He truly has boundless merit."


    "In fact, the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist lands wish to rid the world of fiendish demons too. But due to the Heavenly rules, only mortal cultivators can fight fiendish demons at the mortal level."


    Those that did not mind a deadly feud with the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, had the strength to wipe out the fiendish demons of the world, and were willing to do so¡­ only came around once in a very long time in history!


    Every appearance of one made the lives of ordinary mortals a lot better.


    ******


    Grand Dominance''s Qin Manor was a place with special meaning to both humans and demons.


    At that moment, many cultivators and demons were astounded by what Qin Yun had done, such as Nine Mountain Island Lord. He was cultivating in Cloudfiend Mountain and felt overjoyed after an initial fear when he learned of the news.


    However, Qin Yun was not feeling very happy.


    "What, the slaughter continues?" Qin Yun read through the news that appeared in his Inspect Heavenly Token. "The murderer is slaughtering village after village in the world. When all the humans that have been slaughtered are added up, the number is approaching two hundred thousand."


    Qin Yun was filled with rage but he could not do a thing.


    He was powerless because he could not find the murderer.


    "What are all the immortals of the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands doing?" Yi Xiao could not help but comment. "They have all sorts of tricks. Can''t they find one murderer?"


    "It''s truly strange. The murderer is unbridled and has killed so many humans in such a short period of time. It''s enough to have many experts investigate the matter carefully." Qin Yun shook his head. "However, there have been no discoveries about the murderer all this while."


    Not only was Qin Yun astounded.


    The murderer that engaged in serial slaughters all over the world had attracted the attention of many human experts. They had attempted to investigate but all of them were surprised to find that there was no way for them to identify the murderer.


    In fact, Hong Lingtong had come to this conclusion early on. He was not confident in many things but when it came to divining the future, he was confident that he was the best in the world. Yet even he could not divine the murderer''s identity, so it was unlikely anyone else could.

 315 Outside Grand Dominance City

    Chapter 315: Outside Grand Dominance City


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The mysterious murderer had silently slaughtered nearly two hundred thousand people across the world in half a month. The killing spree attracted the attention of numerous experts including Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong.


    However, such situations were actually rather common throughout history. Especially before Qin Yun swept away the fiendish demons of the world, it was not rare for a fiendish demon to gather the flesh and blood of a hundred to two hundred thousand humans in a short period of time in order to make sacrifices. Of course, such brazen violence would earn the relentless pursuit of the imperial government and the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    However, that this mysterious murderer remained mysterious shocked the world.


    "About a hundred and eighty thousand commoners of Maple Provincial City in Lu Prefecture''s North Xuan County died. All of them were sucked dry of their flesh and blood." This news rapidly spread throughout factions of all sizes in the world. Every cultivator was dumbfounded.


    "He decimated an entire provincial city?"


    Qin Yun''s expression contorted when he read the news.


    "A provincial city with nearly a hundred and eighty thousand residents in it. It would take some time to slaughter them all. Yet, no one discovered him despite how long he must have taken?" Yi Xiao could not help but comment.


    "According to the information given to me by the Inspector Heavenly Alliance, their investigations indicate that the entire slaughtering process took less than ten minutes," said Qin Yun gloomily. "He was able to suck a hundred and eighty thousand humans of their flesh and blood in such a short period of time. Even a Paramount realm great fiendish demon is incapable of such a feat."


    "If a Paramount realm fiendish demon can''t do it, who can" asked Yi Xiao. "Is it a fiendcelestial? But fiendcelestials are restrained by the Heavenly rules. They wouldn''t dare do such a thing."


    "I do not know." Qin Yun shook his head gently. "I do not know who the murderer is or what his background is."


    Qin Yun''s eyes burned with killing intent. The mysterious murderer had further enraged Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    At the Imperial Capital, in the royal palace.


    A white-haired elder sat cross-legged in a quiet hall. To his side stood Human Emperor.


    "Lunatic Wang," said Human Emperor in a heavy tone. "You have to divine again. You have to figure out the murderer''s identity."


    "He dared to slaughter an entire provincial city." The white-haired elder opened his eyes. Although he was very old, his eyes had a bright luster to them. He smiled as he looked at Human Emperor. "Your Majesty, even you are anxious over this."


    "To dare slaughter with such abandon, it has to be a mortal fiendish demon. However, he managed to drain nearly a hundred and eighty thousand humans of their flesh and blood in ten minutes¡­ That is strength at the fiendcelestial level. I feel uneasy about the appearance of such a mysterious murderer," said Human Emperor in a deep tone.


    The white-haired elder was alarmed. "Your Majesty, if you can feel a vague sense of unease at your level, it might be a warning from the Heavenly Dao. Alright, I''ll do my best to infer again."


    With a flip of his hand, a jade disc appeared in his hand. He began his divination with the aid of a treasure.


    Hum!


    The phantom of a gigantic jade disc appeared around him. Many faint scenes flashed across the phantom.


    "Oh?" The white-haired elder''s face gradually flushed red.


    "Come on out."


    He tried his best as his face turned redder, to the point that wisps of hot air steamed out of his body.


    "Pfft!"


    Finally, the white-haired elder spat out a mouthful of blood, causing the color to drain from his face.


    He opened his eyes and looked at Human Emperor. He said gloomily, "Your Majesty, I have failed once again. However, I have finally sensed a warning for the Human Emperor. The mysterious murderer is a catastrophe of our world that has just appeared."


    "Catastrophe?" Human Emperor was alarmed.


    Although he was the supreme leader of the Godfiend lineage, and one of the top human existences, he required the acknowledgment of the Daoist and Buddhist sects to unify and rule over the world. Furthermore, he had personally suppressed the worst catastrophe in this world. With such immense merit¡­ all the Daoist and Buddhist schools of thought held him in great esteem. As such, they also acknowledged him as emperor of humanity.


    "This murderer is actually a catastrophe?" Human Emperor''s expression turned nasty. "A catastrophe can be an item or it could be an entrance that leads to other worlds. I never expected the catastrophe this time to be a murderer at the mortal level. What makes him dangerous enough to become a catastrophe?"


    A catastrophe was a calamity of the world.


    It meant that it could overturn an entire world!


    ¡­


    "That lunatic from the Wang family has inferred that the murderer is a catastrophe?" In Po Prefecture''s Divine Firmament Chapter, Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged in a hidden Grotto-heaven.


    He had quickly received the news from Human Emperor.


    Although Ancestral Master Zhang was good at inference, he had not focused his efforts on it during his cultivation process. He was incomparable to Lunatic Wang and a few others.


    "Catastrophe? From the looks of it, this murderer is no trifling matter." Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression turned heavy.


    ¡­


    After Human Emperor confirmed the news, it was natural that the Daoist and Buddhist sects, the Skydemon Palace, the Four Seas'' Dragon race also quickly learned of the news. All of them needed to survive in this world so they naturally paid a lot of attention to the matter.


    The outcomes of the catastrophes in history were tremendous.


    If a few Essence Soul realm experts had to die to resolve a catastrophe, even that was considered lucky.


    ******


    Outside Grand Dominance City. In the clouds.


    The purple-robed He Qian remained carefree.


    "After I descended into this world, I cast mystic techniques in various places, spending several years here before I finally confirmed the location of the spatial nodes. Now, I have easily amassed the blood and flesh powers of three hundred and sixty thousand humans. With that much of it, I have enough to open a connection to my homeworld." He Qian overlooked Grand Dominance City. "Next, I have to construct the World Altar. The amount of treasures required is huge¡­ If I tried to sneak an attack on an Essence Soul realm expert, it might cause a few powerhouses to appear. Haha, but thankfully, I discovered this Qin Yun. He is a mere mortal sword immortal but his treasure halos are astounding. He has just too many treasures on him. I could take five ordinary Essence Soul realm experts, add them up, and it still might not even match him."


    "I heard that he recently obliterated five Paramount realm fiendish demons at once?" He Qian scoffed. "Unfortunately, his strength is unlikely to withstand one strike of mine."


    An ancient Other Realm Fiendcelestial like himself regarded Paramount realm fiendish demons as ants!


    "Yes, I believe it''s time to lure him out."


    The purple-robed youth looked at Grand Dominance City. "It''s more convenient killing him outside the city! There are too many array formations inside Grand Dominance City and there are too many humans. It might stir people like Human Emperor, Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang, or Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva¡­"


    He already had his plans.


    Swoosh.


    Following that, he silently descended in the direction of Grand Dominance City.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun had been paying close attention to the mysterious murderer as of late. However, since no one in the world was capable of identifying him, he had no means to act on his prowess.


    "Brother Yun, don''t worry. Since the murderer dares to act so brazenly, he will one day expose himself," said Yi Xiao. The couple was having an idle chat while enjoying tea in a pavilion.


    "I can only wait and hope that there will be no more slaughters in the coming days," said Qin Yun.


    "In the past half month, he has been carefully slaughtering nearly two hundred thousand people. However, he decimated nearly a hundred and eighty thousand humans at Maple Provincial City at once. I feel like it might have been a final spurt," suggested Yi Xiao. "Perhaps that slaughter gave him the required amount of flesh and blood, which led him to risk it all on such a crazy act."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    As he held his teacup, he drank his tea before saying, "Xiaoxiao, I plan on going out on a trip tomorrow."


    "Oh? How long will it take?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "It might take a few days," said Qin Yun. "I plan on gathering more of the items needed to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword. I want to raise my Intrinsic Flying Sword to the transcendent grade. I also need items for my other flying sword. Furthermore, I will need such a huge quantity that it will take some time to gather it all."


    Just the cost of the materials needed to push his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the transcendent-grade matched that of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    The difference between ordinary and intrinsic Dharma treasures was huge.


    And that was actually the easiest aspect of it.


    The most difficult part of the nurturing process remained the level of one''s Sword Dao. Since ancient times, there had only been two sword immortals that had managed to nurture their Intrinsic Flying Sword to the transcendent-grade level. Qin Yun believed that he was not far from that stage. Even if he were still lacking at present, it was only a matter of time before he could nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the transcendent-grade given his age. Therefore, he decided to gather all the materials ahead of time.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression suddenly changed. Through the array formation that he used to protect Qin Manor, he sensed that a fiendish demon aura was breaking through the boundaries of the array formation.


    The Qin family''s array formation extended to a point outside Grand Dominance City.


    "There''s a fiendish demon," said Yi Xiao immediately. "Furthermore, it has very pure and intricate fiendish aura."


    "I''ll take a look," said Qin Yun. Following that, he shot out as a beam of light, streaking across the sky as he headed north.


    Qin Yun''s flying speed was tremendously fast.


    He rapidly arrived at the northern city wall. Soon, he saw a purple-robed youth in flight. He exuded a hint of fiendish aura but it was very pure and intricate.


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" The purple-robed youth looked up and was astonished. He quickly cupped his hands and said, "I mean no harm. Sword Immortal Qin, I came here to discuss something with you."


    "With such a pure and intricate fiendish aura, it appears that you have gained the inherited teachings of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons." However, Qin Yun had a frosty expression. "Surrender yourself before we engage in our conversation."


    With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of Sword Qi flew out as it attempted to take down the purple-robed youth.

 316 Qin Yun vs Other Realm Fiendcelestial

    Chapter 316: Qin Yun vs Other Realm Fiendcelestial


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ninety-nine percent of the disciples who studied the inherited-teachings of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons were evil incarnate. The remaining one percent would willingly surrender to humans or even act as spies for the humans.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, is there a need to fight immediately?" The purple-robed youth laughed as he flicked his finger. A purple light shot out from his finger, striking Qin Yun''s sharp Sword Qi. With a poof, the Sword Qi shattered. "Sword Immortal Qin, I came here to discuss something with you. Why don''t we sit down and have a good chat?"


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed. This demon had managed to shatter his Sword Qi with a finger.


    "This purple-robed man in front of me is clearly a mortal fiendish demon. Yet, he is able to destroy my Sword Qi with a flick of his finger. He must have stepped into the Dao." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Including him, there are a total of two fiendish demons that have stepped into the Dao. The other fiendish demon is Abbot Blackwind. He has been in seclusive cultivation for a long time. I''ve heard that the imperial government and Inspector Heavenly Alliance have investigated and indeed confirmed that he has been in seclusive cultivation recently. Furthermore, Abbot Blackwind probably lacks the ability to devour the flesh and blood of a hundred and eighty thousand people in ten minutes."


    "This person in front of me is a mortal fiendish demon that no one has ever heard of. Yet, he has the strength of one who has stepped into the Dao. He might very well be the murderer. After all, there are only two fiendish demons that have stepped into the Dao in the world."


    The emergence of a fiendish demon that had stepped into the Dao was very rare.


    Qin Yun made his judgment when He Qian shattered his Sword Qi with a finger.


    "Are you behind the recent string of massacres?" bellowed Qin Yun angrily.


    The purple-robed youth was taken aback.


    "Submit and surrender!" When Qin Yun saw his reaction, he did not hesitate to act. He waved his hand and instantly, the Coiling Dust Sword and the Seven Kills Sword, which disassembled into seven flying swords, flew out simultaneously. A total of eight flying swords were employed in unison.


    "Eight Ultimates Four Directions!"


    Qin Yun immediately cast an attack that was designed to trap an enemy.


    In terms of might, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao killer move, Eight Ultimates Four Directions, was slightly weaker than when the three Cosmic Bangles were used together as it only had about eighty percent of the bangles'' strength. However, its entrapment range was a lot bigger!


    "Rumble!" The eight flying swords resembled the Heaven and Earth''s eight Ultimates. Instantly, the attack sealed and area tens of kilometers around them! It even reached close to Grand Dominance City''s city walls. This was deliberate. If Qin Yun used all his strength, he could seal off a region of about fifty kilometers.


    "Oh?"


    The purple-robed youth saw the changes in the Heaven and Earth. The eight flying swords were suspended in eight different cardinal directions, forming a world in and of itself.


    "Interesting." The purple-robed youth looked at Qin Yun as his eyes lit up. "Your strength is a lot higher than I estimated. I was planning on sneaking an attack but whatever. I can finish you in one or two strikes anyway."


    With that said, the purple-robed youth extended his arm as it expanded rapidly. His arm seemed to made of solid stone. There were purple patterns on the rock that suffused a sinister and bloody purple light. His palm also transformed into a giant stone palm.


    "Crack!" The purple-robed youth''s right hand suddenly struck upwards.


    Boom!


    The Heaven and Earth boomed as the world raptured.


    The world that Qin Yun''s eight flying swords formed was unable to withstand the impact. It instantly shattered.


    What?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "You are pretty strong. A mortal sword immortal can actually match the second Firmament of the Essence Soul realm? What origins do you have? Are you a reincarnated immortal? But that''s strange, for if you were, you wouldn''t have foolishly chosen the sword immortal lineage," The purple-robed youth said. The hand that shattered the Sword of Heaven Earth turned and smacked at Qin Yun. Purple gusts of wind whistled between the gaps of his fingers. It possessed a terrifying might.


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Qin Yun thought nothing of mortal fiendish demons. He even planned on capturing his opponent alive for further questioning when he suspected him to be the murderer! The eight second-grade flying swords were ordinary in strength when used alone, but when put together could match an expert at the second Firmament of the Essence Soul realm. With his present Sword Dao realm, the delivery of such an attack could easily wipe out Fiend Sovereign Jadeface and Palatial Lord Black Dragon.


    But his opponent managed to crack it with a hand?


    His opponent even suspected that he was a reincarnated immortal?


    "What is his origin? I have never heard of a mortal fiendish demon that is this powerful." Although he was alarmed, Qin Yun did not hesitate to use his strongest Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    He waved his hand.


    A sword beam flew out from his fingertip. It was his Intrinsic Flying Sword that he was nurturing inside him.


    Boom!


    The first-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword could produce strength at the Numinous treasure level. It was much more horrifying in strength than all of the eight flying swords. Now, Qin Yun had to use another killer move.


    "Roar!" The phenomenon of a bright moon over a river appeared around them. It spanned an area of dozens of kilometers. There was an extremely dazzling lunar beam that streaked through the sky. All the surrounding space was trembling. The lunar glow was intoxicating and wherever it passed, the void would produce ripples. The entire scene could only be described as beautiful and fascinating.


    "What, how is he stronger again?" The purple-robed youth was somewhat astonished. He instantly saw through the lunar beam and pinpointed the Intrinsic Flying Sword that was in the form of a thread within. "He has even reached the stage of creating ripples in the void?"


    "Bright Moon Over River!" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with keenness.


    The present Bright Moon Over River was completely incomparable to when it was first created. It was many times more profound and a lot stronger.


    "Bam!"


    The gigantic stone palm struck the lunar sword flash.


    There was a loud explosion as the flying sword flew backward. The stone palm also came to a halt.


    "A native being of this world, one that even foolishly chose to be a sword immortal, is this strong after only a few decades of cultivation? And how can I compare with him when I have tens of thousands of years of cultivation?" The purple-robed youth felt unhappy. "I hate such geniuses the most. You have to die! A dead genius is the best genius!"


    At that moment, the purple-robed youth went all out.


    Boom!


    The stone palm that seemed to falter struck out vigorously once again. Its might was clearly more terrifying this time. It even caused the void to distort as it passed through. If Qin Yun''s ripples in the void were considered tiny fluctuations, then the purple-robed youth''s palm blew through the void like a blast. It was clearly more domineering.


    "No good." Qin Yun knew at a glance that he was far inferior to the impending might. This was the first time he was encountering a mortal more terrifying than he was. Without any time to consider his opponent''s origins, it was all he could to do respond to his attacks.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang, I have encountered a mortal fiendish demon. His strength is extremely terrifying. He is a lot stronger than the average fiendcelestial. I suspect him to be the murderer that has killed hundreds of thousands of humans." Qin Yun immediately informed the strongest existence he knew through the Inspect Heavenly Token he kept close to his chest¡ªDivine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "The murderer that has slaughtered hundreds of thousands of humans? A mortal fiendish demon that is stronger than most fiendcelestials? Alright, try your best to stall for time. I will rush there as fast as I can," answered Ancestral Master Zhang immediately.


    Ancestral Master Zhang knew very well that, according to the news given by Human Emperor, the mysterious murderer was likely a catastrophe! How could he waste even a second?


    ¡­


    While diverting his attention to pass the message, Qin Yun did not stop at all. He was still facing the terrifying strike of the massive stone palm.


    "Go! Go! Go!" Qin Yun waved his left hand and immediately, three black bangles flew out consecutively.


    The Cosmic Bangles could trap enemies as well as be used for attacks. While attacking, the Cosmic Bangles could use the strength from the pocket world within them to smash an enemy.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    With Qin Yun exerting all his strength, the three Cosmic Bangles smashed down again and again. Every strike seemed to cause the world to resonate. However, the stone palm only seemed to slow down. It still bore down on him imperiously.


    "Those bangles are some good Dharma treasures." The purple-robed youth noticed them at a glance. "This Qin Yun has slain fiendish demons in the world and has amassed great merit. He is beloved by providence as it shines its light on him. He has quite a lot of treasures but all of them will soon be mine."


    ¡­


    At the beginning of the battle outside Grand Dominance City, the purple-robed youth shattered the Eight Ultimates Four Directions with his palm. It caused quite a commotion. So much so that Yi Xiao, who was in control of the Qin family''s array formation, sensed it.


    "What a large commotion. Brother Yun should have been able to easily take care of a mortal fiendish demon." Yi Xiao immediately flew out of the Qin family manor and headed north. She watched from a distance away.


    At the same time, another stream of light flew out from the Hong household. It was Hong Lingtong who had also sensed the intense blasts outside the city.


    The moment he flew out, he looked into the distance. Despite being dozens of kilometers away, he could see the battle at a glance. His expression could not help but change.


    "Sister-in-law." Hong Lingtong immediately rushed to Yi Xiao''s side. While hiding his strength, he was still able to fly to the city walls of Grand Dominance City to stop her.


    Both of them stood in front of the city wall and watched the battle from a distance.


    "This¡­this..." Yi Xiao looked into the distance in shock. The gigantic stone palm appeared like a stone pillar of the world. It had an abnormal and horrifying might when it moved around. As Qin Yun used the three Cosmic Bangles, he released his flying sword once again. He was clearly in quite an abject state.


    "Brother Yun is actually at a disadvantage?" Yi Xiao found it hard to believe.


    "Sister-in-law, you must not go over there. You will only burden Brother Qin." Hong Lingtong immediately stopped her. At the same time, he also watched the battle anxiously. He felt tumultuous waves rising in his heart. Such a terrifying match astounded him. "That purple-robed man is a mortal fiendish demon? For him to be this strong, is he the catastrophe that I have been searching for all this while? Brother Qin Yun, a mortal sword immortal, is actually that strong too?"

 317 Happy Meeting, Sorrowful Parting

    Chapter 317: Happy Meeting, Sorrowful Parting


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Hong Lingtong was knowledgeable about many things; yet, he was stunned by the exchange happening before him.


    "The purple-robed man is a mortal fiendish demon with a Connate Golden Core body, yet he is able to produce strength that barely reaches the third Firmament Essence Soul realm," thought Hong Lingtong as he observed. "If he rapidly increases his fiendcelestial strength, enhances his body''s Dharmic powers, and finds a suitable and more powerful Dharma treasure, he will probably be able to produce strength akin to the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm!"


    "With such strength, it probably means that he is an ancient fiendcelestial that descended from an Other Realm," thought Hong Lingtong.


    Combat strength at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm was already very terrifying. Such strength in ancient times could match that of a Skygod!


    Furthermore, in terms of realm, present-day peak third Firmament Essence Soul realms¡­ were stronger than newly promoted Skygods in ancient times! The only difference was that a Skygod''s body and Dharmic powers were of much higher quality than a third Firmament Essence Soul''s. Therefore, present-day peak third Firmament Essence Soul realms could only barely match an ancient early-stage Skygod.


    If Qin Yun was still in the first world of his hundred-year dream, his present realm would have been sufficient for him to break through to the Skygod realm.


    "It is very difficult for Other Realm Fiendcelestials to descend into a world. Their souls would immediately attract Heavenly Punishment. It works only if they obtain a body that can perfectly bear their souls and allow them to avoid Heavenly Punishment," thought a perplexed Hong Lingtong. "A body that can perfectly bear the soul of an Other Realm Fiendcelestial is just too rare! Furthermore, the possession has to happen across worlds. The original owner of the body has to be willing to surrender their body. A forced possession would be too messy."


    "Although the Other Realm Fiendcelestial is powerful, Brother Qin is even more impressive in comparison. Brother Qin Yun''s talent is even higher than mine. Unfortunately, he chose the sword immortal lineage." Hong Lingtong sighed secretly. "If not, seeing as he has such strength after just recently stepping into the Dao, it would not be difficult for him to become a Skyimmortal in the future."


    Yi Xiao was watching anxiously to the side.


    Her realm was relatively lower. To this date, she had yet to reach the Connate Golden Core realm. However, she too could sense that the battle between her husband and the purple-robed man was just too intense. The blasts that emitted from the battle were extremely terrifying! They scraped off a few layers of the land itself.


    ¡­


    Hong Lingtong was not the only one that was astounded. The purple-robed He Qian was similarly shocked.


    He originally thought that it would be an easy task, taking Qin Yun down in one or two strikes. Never did he consider the possibility of Qin Yun being that strong.


    With rumbling booms, the gigantic arm that resembled a pillar in the sky flailed around. As the stone palm struck down, Qin Yun remained in a dangerous situation.


    "Samsara!"


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out once again, but at his present realm Samsara did not expend even ten percent of his soul''s strength. However, its strength was fifty percent higher than Bright Moon Over River! It no longer had the great increase in strength as compared to when he was still in the Paramount realm. Clearly, the higher his realm was, the weaker the enhancement when infusing his Paramount Emotions into an all-out attack would be.


    "Bam!" The gigantic stone palm sent Qin Yun''s flying sword flying once again.


    "Happy Meeting!"


    The misty strike moved agilely and mystically as it circled around the stone palm to target the purple-robed man.


    However, the stone palm''s five fingers began casting an intricate finger art. As the five fingers moved, the surrounding area collapsed. Finally, one of the fingers tapped on the flying sword, sending it flying backward.


    "Sorrowful Parting!"


    Qin Yun''s eyes looked lost as he cast his most powerful strike to date.


    After his final stepping into the Dao, Qin Yun naturally created more killer moves for his Misty Rain Sword Art. And in terms of pure might, the strongest was Sorrowful Parting!


    The most unpredictable Happy Meeting and the mightiest Sorrowful Parting were attacks he created based on the relationship he formed with his son, Meng Huan.


    A relationship that lasted fifty years.


    Qin Yun took care of him when he was still a garbling infant. He watched him grow up. When Meng Huan was a child, he personally held his hand and taught him the way of the sword¡­


    During Meng Huan''s rebellious years, Qin Yun fretted over him. Despite being invincible in that world, he was at times powerless against his son.


    When Meng Huan was introverted, Qin Yun steeled his heart and forced him out to go on adventures.


    While he was out adventuring, Qin Yun could not help but cast his Dao domain to watch over him.


    ¡­


    Although he had experienced two worlds in the dream of a hundred years, Qin Yun had the strongest feelings for his son, Meng Huan! Back then, his heart was as still as water and as cold as an ice mirror. Yet, he was filled with concerns. When he returned to his homeworld, his original state of mind was restored. The surge of emotions that followed made Qin Yun weep incessantly.


    He knew that even if Huan''er could shatter the void and ascend, the chances of them meeting again remained very low.


    It could possibly be¡­ an eternal parting.


    "Happy Meeting, Sorrowful Parting."


    Sorrowful Parting had a strength that was above even Samsara. The burden on the soul was greater too.


    "Boom!!!"


    The strike caused the stone palm to pause. It even wavered when the three Cosmic Bangles smashed against it in a quick follow up.


    "Oh?" He Qian turned increasingly furious when he saw this play out. "Are you still trying to put up a meaningless struggle? Die!"


    The stone palm struck once again.


    "Even this strike is useless? Indeed, there is always someone better in the world." Qin Yun had cast all of his killer moves in a row, but each one of them had been blocked. Especially when Sorrowful Parting failed to gain an advantage, he knew there was a huge gap between them.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Although the three Cosmic Bangles struck, again and again, they came to a stop after being enervated.


    When the gigantic stone palm continued crashing down at Qin Yun again, the distant Hong Lingtong and Yi Xiao turned worried.


    "Cyclic Sword Flash!"


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    Whoosh!


    An extremely resplendent sword flash blocked the area above him. It was Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash, his best technique! Ever since his Sword Dao became so perfect that it formed a world in and of itself, the Cyclic Sword Flash more closely resembled a complete Heaven and Earth! It was even more flawless.


    "Bam!" The stone palm struck the sword flash barrier, causing the sword flashes to flow across the barrier as they managed to withstand the strike.


    "What? He managed to withstand it?" He Qian was alarmed. "Let me see how many times you can withstand my attacks. Obliterate!"


    Bam! Bam! Bam!!!


    He Qian flailed his gigantic stone palm crazily, striking again and again. In a blink of an eye, he struck more than ten times. The might was able to render the world asunder. Watching far in the distance, Hong Lingtong and Yi Xiao were terrified. Hong Lingtong could not help but think, "We both have Connate Golden Cores. I''m better in other aspects but in terms of a frontal assault, I''m no match for this fiendish demon."


    "This Qin Yun''s defensive sword techniques are more impressive than his attacks?" He Qian''s expression turned nasty.


    He originally thought that he could easily squash a mere mortal sword immortal to death and relieve him of his treasures.


    He never expected it to be such an unchewable bone! It was too hard!


    He was unable to even bite down!


    "If not for me having a Connate Golden Core body and if not for my lack of powerful Dharma treasures¡­ how can I not be able to destroy a mere sword immortal?" He Qian felt disgruntled. He was an Other Realm Fiendcelestial who had long reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. He was just short of being a Skyfiend! In terms of Dharmic powers, Qin Yun''s purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers were greater than his. In terms of Dharma treasures, He Qian had only managed to cultivate the mountain body to the peak of mortality, allowing him to fight with his body. However, Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword matched the power of a Numinous treasure!


    In other aspects as well, Qin Yun possessed huge advantages.


    "I can''t destroy him." The purple-robed man swept his gaze at the distant Grand Dominance City. He also saw Yi Xiao and Hong Lingtong.


    "Whoosh."


    The purple-robed man suddenly opened his mouth.


    Immediately a black wind raged as it blew towards Grand Dominance City!


    "That trivial attack is useless." Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash instantly enlarged, easily covering half the sky, blocking Grand Dominance City from He Qian''s attack.


    Back when Qin Yun was in the Paramount realm, his Cyclic Sword Flash could maintain its peak strength while enveloping an entire mountain. Now, Qin Yun''s Cyclic Sword Flash peak strength could envelop an area that spanned fifty kilometers! It was enough to envelop the entire city!


    "Hmph! You were quick to block." He Qian sneered. Following that, he did not hesitate to transform into a stream of light that flew north.


    "Time to leave."


    "It''s likely that the experts from the human''s imperial government and Daoist and Buddhist sects are coming. I can''t stay in in this battle any longer."


    He Qian fled with all he had.


    "Qin Yun! Consider yourself lucky that I lack a powerful Dharma treasure. You won''t have such luck the next time." He Qian''s voice resonated through the world before he vanished beyond the horizon.


    "Trying to escape?"


    Qin Yun released his Seven Kills Sword and it rapidly pursued He Qian.


    A sword immortal''s sword kinesis was truly one of a kind! Under Qin Yun''s full strength, the flying sword tore through the sky and moved at a speed faster than He Qian! It instantly vanished beyond the horizon as it engaged in a crazy pursuit of the purple-robed man.


    "Don''t think you''ll get away!" roared Qin Yun.


    He wanted to do his best to hold him back. He needed to know where He Qian was at the very least. He might not be able to kill He Qian, but once Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang arrived, he was confident that he would have the means to deal with the purple-robed man.

 318 Ancestral Master Zhangs Regre

    Chapter 318: Ancestral Master Zhang''s Regret


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Bam!"


    There was a loud bang along the distant horizon as the flying sword tumbled backward.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed as he waved his hand to put away his flying sword.


    Only then did Yi Xiao and Hong Lingtong, who had been standing by the city walls, fly over.


    "Brother Yun, what happened? Can''t your flying sword pursue an enemy for thousands of kilometers?" asked Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly.


    There was a saying, that a flying sword could kill enemies five hundred kilometers away. But that was for ordinary Paramount realm sword immortals. Now, Qin Yun''s flying sword could pursue an enemy for up to ten thousand kilometers.


    "His realm is far above mine. He easily escaped my flying sword''s pursuit." Qin Yun shook his head and sighed. "Thankfully, his Dharmic powers are inferior to mine and his Dharma treasure is far inferior to mine¡­ That was how I survived this clash."


    Qin Yun knew very well that if both parties had equal Dharmic powers and Dharma treasures, even his Cyclic Sword Flash wouldn''t have stood a chance!


    "Brother Qin Yun, you are already very powerful. I was watching the whole thing astounded," said Hong Lingtong as he shook his head. "It made me think, our cultivation times are almost similar. I feel ashamed after seeing your strength."


    "I had some opportunities." Although Qin Yun said so, he felt mixed emotions. He actually cultivated a century more than Hong Lingtong!


    "Where did this mysterious fiendish demon come from?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask. "His strength is above Brother Yun''s and he is completely unheard of."


    "The murderer who recently engaged in the widespread human massacre is very likely this mysterious fiendish demon," said Qin Yun. "With his strength he is completely capable of sucking dry the flesh and blood of a hundred and eighty thousand people in ten minutes! I do not think that there are any other mortal fiendish demons that are capable of doing so."


    "I agree as well." Hong Lingtong nodded as he knitted his brows. "However, why did he suddenly come to Grand Dominance to fight you?"


    "That''s what puzzles me too." Qin Yun gently shook his head. "I have never met him before. There has been no news of him before throughout the entire world. It''s as though he appeared out of thin air. I wonder why he would suddenly attack me. Did he come to deal with me because I''ve been slaying fiendish demons across the world?"


    While they were engaging in their conversation, a figure appeared in the distance. He was a middle-aged Daoist with a tall headdress, and he arrived beside them with another step.


    "Patriarch?" Yi Xiao could not help but be alarmed.


    The person that had just arrived was an existence that Divine Firmament Chapter disciples were most impressed with. He was Ancestral Master Zhang, recognized by all to be the strongest person in the Daoist school of thought.


    "Greetings, Senior (Patriarch) Zhang." Qin Yun, Hong Lingtong, and Yi Xiao immediately bowed reverently.


    "Alright." The middle-aged Daoist looked at Qin Yun. "Where is that powerful mortal fiendish demon you mentioned?"


    "He failed to kill me but he did not persist in combat either. He quickly fled and my flying sword was unable to pursue him." As Qin Yun spoke, he pointed to the north. "He fled north."


    The middle-aged Daoist frowned as he looked north. A vertical eye opened in his glabella. There were hints of lightning in the eye. After looking north, he swept his gaze in other directions.


    Qin Yun could not help but guess when he saw that.


    The third eye¡­ was likely the divine power, Eye of Lightning. Ancestral Master Zhang had previously mentioned that it was the best divine power he had! He too had received the Eye of Lightning Dharmic formulation and had prepared it for his wife.


    "He lives up to being the source of a catastrophe. His concealment art is indeed powerful. I actually can''t find him despite his departure being recent," thought Ancestral Master Zhang.


    He immediately dispelled his divine power and looked at Qin Yun and company.


    "I would like to speak with Qin Yun in private," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Senior (Patriarch), we shall take our leave." Yi Xiao and Hong Lingtong immediately departed.


    The two rapidly flew away.


    "It''s actually Patriarch!" Yi Xiao felt a little excited.


    "The light shone providence shines on Ancestral Master Zhang is truly terrifying, massive, and impressive." Hong Lingtong was astounded. "His strength is indeed terrifying. He certainly lives up to being the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple of legend."


    Hong Lingtong knew very well how impressive Ancestral Master Zhang was.


    He was the most illustrious Daoist cultivator in the world''s history. He had created and perfected the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, which was recognized as the best Dharmic Dao. It was even more powerful than the numerous Dharma spells that the Dao Ancestor had left behind in Numinous Treasure Mountain. Of course, that was because the Dao Ancestor had only imparted the most basic Dharmic formulations, leaving the research and improvement work to future generations.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang was just too heaven-defying. His name had long reached the other worlds.


    "For him to attract the Dao Ancestor and become a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor, he''s truly terrifying." Hong Lingtong mumbled inwardly.


    ¡­


    In the spot outside the city, only Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang were left.


    "Tell me in detail about this mortal fiendish demon," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Just a while ago, he arrived outside Grand Dominance City. I sensed a pure fiendish aura through the array formation and immediately came to investigate," said Qin Yun. "Now that I think back on it, with his realm, I would not have been able to sense his fiendish aura if he put his all into converging it. It''s clear that he deliberately faked being at the Paramount realm to draw me over so that he could take the chance to kill me."


    "He came to Grand Dominance to kill you?" Ancestral Master Zhang was puzzled.


    "I believe so." Qin Yun nodded.


    Judging from the battle, there was no doubt that the purple-robed man wished him dead. He struck out more than ten times with his palms at the last moment, before leaving only when he realized he could not do a thing to the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "He couldn''t crack my Cyclic Sword Flash so he departed immediately," said Qin Yun.


    "He''s careful." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "From the remnant auras around here, even I am shocked by your strength. What realm have you reached? Is your Dao domain fifteen kilometers? What is it?"


    "A Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers," said Qin Yun but he was feeling astounded inwardly.


    Could he determine his strength just from the remnant auras in the surroundings?


    "You just stepped into the Dao and your Dao domain is twenty-five kilometers?" Ancestral Master Zhang was astonished.


    "It''s because of the Amita wooden figurine I chose. I finished the hundred years dream recently," explained Qin Yun. "With what I gathered from those hundred years, I took a final step into the Dao after returning to my homeworld, reaching this realm."


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun and could not help but ask, "Are you sure you''re not a reincarnated immortal?"


    "Reincarnated? Can cultivators even reincarnate?" Qin Yun was baffled.


    "Yes, they can."


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "However, I do believe you are a native cultivator of this world! You are much stronger than reincarnated immortals. Once a reincarnated immortal awakens their memories, they recover their realm. The realm they reattain would be the one that they obtained in their previous incarnation! However, to raise it again would be very difficult¡­ You are different from them. You have cultivated for a short period of time. You have just stepped into the Dao, so improving would be easier."


    "Are there reincarnated immortals in our world now?" Qin Yun was filled with questions.


    "There have been some in history but I have not heard of any recent ones to date," replied Ancestral Master Zhang. "Don''t envy reincarnated immortals. If they were not forced to do it, who would want to reincarnate? If they never awaken, they would forever be stuck in Samsara."


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    So there was that much danger for reincarnated immortals?


    "Qin Yun, to have this Dao domain of yours after you just stepped into the Dao represents the promising prospects of the path you have taken," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Some unorthodox Dao are weak upon entry into the Dao. Their prospects are even worse. And you have just stepped into the Dao with a Dao domain that spans twenty-five kilometers! Then, as long as you continue to accumulate experience and enhance it¡­ you will have a limitless future. Once your Dao domain reaches fifty kilometers, it wouldn''t even be difficult to become a Skyimmortal. Unfortunately, you have cultivated in the sword immortal lineage."


    Ancestral Master Zhang was a person who cherished talent. He felt regretful that Qin Yun had chosen a path that prevented cultivation conversion.


    "If I did not cultivate as a sword immortal, I might not have my present achievements," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "Cultivate well. Perhaps, you will be able to create a Dharmic formulation that condenses an Essence Soul," said Ancestral Master Zhang. However, he knew how problematic it was for those who chose the sword immortal lineage.


    He had to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation by himself. This obstacle had held back every astounding sword immortal that had ever stepped into the Dao in history. Would Qin Yun be the first to create his own Essence Soul Dharmic formulation? Ancestral Master Zhang believed the odds were against him.


    He also had to create a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage himself! The difficulty was even more ludicrous! Ancestral Master Zhang did not even dare think about it.


    "Is your Intrinsic Flying Sword at the first-grade or the transcendent-grade?" pressed Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "It''s a first-grade Dharma treasure. It hasn''t been long since I stepped into the Dao. My Intrinsic Flying Sword is still being nurtured. It will need time to reach the state of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure," replied Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly. "How much stronger was the mortal fiendish demon?"


    "He completely repressed me," said Qin Yun. "However, he could not crack my Cyclic Sword Flash."


    "You have purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers and a first-grade Intrinsic Dharma treasure. With your present realm¡­ you should be able to produce strength at the peak second Firmament Essence Soul realm," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "With that estimate to go on, his strength has probably reached the beginning stages of the third Firmament of the Essence Soul realm."


    "He lacks a powerful Dharma treasure and his Dharmic powers were very ordinary too," said Qin Yun immediately. "He fought me with his body alone."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "His original body must have been an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that was at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. He must have the means to contact his homeworld¡­ This will be troublesome."


    Ancestral Master Zhang now knew why Lunatic Wang had divined the murderer to be the catastrophe.


    He was indeed a new catastrophe.


    "Troublesome?" Qin Yun asked immediately. "Will he continue with his massacre?"


    "Although it''s a pity that hundreds of thousands of humans have died, it does not really shake the world''s foundations," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The danger he poses goes beyond that. However, there''s no need to be overly worried."


    Ancestral Master Zhang was knowledgeable and rich with experience.


    Although it was considered a catastrophe, the level of threat was still tenable! The catastrophe three hundred years ago was what was truly terrifying! Thankfully, the Godfiend lineage produced an astounding existence¡ªHuman Emperor. Due to his cultivation system, Human Emperor managed to suppress that one catastrophe perpetually. He received immense merit in this world and naturally had the qualifications to rule over the world. The Daoist and Buddhist sects also recognized the Great Chang empire.


    Compared to the catastrophe three hundred years ago, the threat this time was relatively weaker.

 319 Transcendent-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword

    Chapter 319: Transcendent-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Senior Zhang, this fiendish demon has wreaked much havoc. If there is any need for me, please feel free to command me," said Qin Yun immediately. He wanted to do all he could to see the mysterious fiendish demon dead.


    "He has been taking action as a mortal. It will probably be problematic for Daoist, Buddhist, and Godfiend experts to deal with him." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "If there''s any need for you, I will inform you. Cultivate well. You will have greater confidence in dealing with that fiendish demon the stronger you are."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    There was indeed a huge gap between him and the fiendish demon.


    All he could do was keep himself alive!


    "Alright, cultivate in peace." After Ancestral Master Zhang said that, he flicked his sleeve. With a step, he appeared on the horizon before vanishing.


    Qin Yun watched from afar before returning to Grand Dominance City.


    ¡­


    "He just stepped into the Dao and already has a Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers. He truly has a limitless future." A bolt of purple lightning tore through the sky with Ancestral Master Zhang''s blurry figure within. "If he had cultivated in any other Dharmic formulations, we humans might have had an additional Skyimmortal. Why did he have to cultivate the sword immortal lineage?"


    Even if Qin Yun''s Dao domain reached fifty kilometers and was at the realm of a Skyimmortal, he would remain mortal if he did not create a Dharmic formulation that could condense an Essence Soul. Once his five hundred years was up, he would return to dust no matter how strong he was.


    Ancestral Master Zhang felt regretful towards this.


    How hard was it for humans to produce a genius in this world? At present, their world only had two Daoist Skyimmortals¡ªPatriarch Bai and Ancestral Master Zhang.


    It was a pity that Qin Yun was limited by his cultivation Dharmic formulation despite having the qualifications to become a Skyimmortal.


    ******


    After hiding for half a month, He Qian arrived in Cloud Prefecture.


    "Boor Ancestral Sect." In a cloud, he looked at the distant mountain range.


    The mountain range was home to a sect that had existed since ancient times. It was the Boor Ancestral Sect, one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' lineages!


    "This body''s Dharmic powers are too weak. I''m unable to use Numinous treasures nor can I even get one! Perfect control is too difficult for transcendent-grade Dharma treasures." He Qian sighed. "A first-grade Dharma treasure is what suits me best. However, this mountain body of mine can produce strength on par with that of a first-grade Dharma treasure after cultivation."


    "I never expected that, as a fiendcelestial that has cultivated for hundreds of thousands of years, I would fail to kill a mortal sword immortal despite retaining my realm after changing bodies." He Qian felt humiliated.


    "However, this Qin Yun is truly terrifyingly talented. If he were to continue developing his strength, he could reach the Skyimmortal realm one day. Thankfully, he is from the sword immortal lineage. He''s destined never to condense an Essence Soul." He Qian looked at the distant Boor Ancestral Sect. "Since I can''t kill Qin Yun, I have no other choice. This Boor Ancestral Sect is absolutely loyal to my faction''s Empyrean Lord! I''ll have to cooperate with the Boor Ancestral Sect. I''ll get them to provide the treasures I need to construct the World Altar."


    "Unfortunately, despite having suffered so much, the fruits of my labor will be split with the Boor Ancestral Sect."


    Although He Qian was unhappy, he had no other choice.


    Did he have to sneak an attack on Essence Souls? Kill them and rob their treasures?


    Most Essence Soul realm experts cultivated inside their own sects. Who would fly around carrying treasures for no good reason? Furthermore, he could end up in a trap if he sneaked around attacking Essence Souls! Patriarch Bai or Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva might suddenly appear out of the blue. That would spell doom for him!


    "Sou!"


    He Qian flew straight for the mountain range.


    ¡­


    Time flew by.


    Qin Yun came to learn that the rumors of his strength in the world were that he was still inferior to Elder Sword!


    Clearly, his strength had not been fully exposed.


    The battle outside Grand Dominance City might have been seen by Yi Xiao and Hong Lingtong but from Qin Yun''s point of view, Hong Lingtong was only an ordinary Connate Golden Core cultivator¡­ It was unlikely he truly discern the level of the battle he had with the mysterious fiendish demon.


    With his status, Ancestral Master Zhang naturally would not leak the news. And for some unknown reason, the mysterious fiendish demon did not publicize the matter.


    "Isn''t that fiendish demon overly mysterious? More than a year has passed since the battle outside Grand Dominance City. Yet, I have not heard any news of him. He also did not spread any information about me. What is he actually up to?" Qin Yun was baffled. Little did he know that to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, creating the World Altar was of utmost importance. He could not be bothered with trifling matters like a single Qin Yun.


    After a snowstorm, Qin Yun was drinking wine inside a pavilion. There was a tiny furnace beside him.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed a person and immediately sent a voice transmission. "Shuyan, come over here."


    Soon, a handsome youth helplessly arrived outside the garden. He walked over and greeted respectfully, "Uncle."


    "Shuyan, it hasn''t been long since you returned from Sword Tower. I can understand that you would like to have fun. However, you took a whole year to clear Hundred Sword Peak," said Qin Yun with a frown. "You cannot slack off when it comes to cultivation."


    "I was planning on resting for a few days after returning," Qin Shuyan could not help but say.


    It had been tough for him to stay locked in that tower, away from the dazzling human world with its myriad temptations for a year.


    He wanted to go to all the fun places and taste all the good food that Grand Dominance City had to offer!


    He had many friends back in the day. Every day, he would meet up with them. The past few days had been a blast.


    "You cannot slack off for even a day," harrumphed Qin Yun coldly. "You have to practice your swordplay for at least four hours a day! Also, you have to reach the Connate realm before your wedding! Do you know that Brother Hong''s daughter has already broken through to the Connate realm?"


    "Yes." Qin Shuyan could only nod obediently. His fianc¨¦e gave him tremendous stress.


    "You may leave," commanded Qin Yun.


    Only then did Qin Shuyan leave obediently. In the entire Qin family, he was most afraid of Uncle Yun.


    Just a glance from him left his heart palpitating.


    "Sigh."


    Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    His nephew and niece were just too lacking. They had been spoiled and pampered from a young age. They were brought up under the best conditions. The herbal treasures they received were a lot more than in the second world from his dream of a hundred years. His nephew, Qin Shuyan, was relatively better but he had yet to break through to the Connate realm.


    "Compared to Huan''er, they are way inferior," thought Qin Yun.


    In the second world of his dream of a hundred years, Meng Huan was absolutely the best genius in that world apart from Qin Yun.


    Meng Huan stepped into the Dao at forty-eight years of age. He had a Dao domain of five kilometers! Although that Dao domain was ordinary, to achieve it at that age was already astounding.


    "Huan''er was always obsessed with sword arts. He even got to the point where he barely spoke a few sentences a day. He scared me so much that I had to force him to leave home. Even after he had a family, he was still obsessed with sword arts," thought Qin Yun. "As for Shuyan and Shubing, they need me to push them into training. They are just way too inferior to Huan''er."


    After teaching Huan''er, Qin Yun was exasperated when he looked at Shubing and Shuyan again.


    ¡­


    A month after Qin Shuyan returned from Sword Tower, it was the fifth day of the new year.


    Qin Yun and his wife Yi Xiao were loafing about in Grand Dominance City. As it was the new year, Grand Dominance City was bustling more than usual. There were many theatrical and acrobatic performances. The sound of children laughing could be heard everywhere.


    "How fragrant." Qin Yun was eating a steamed bun with meat.


    Yi Xiao watched as she laughed. "All you like is eating."


    "In this life of mine, I like two things¡ªsword arts and good food. If good food disappeared, I wouldn''t say that the quality of my life would be halved but it would be decreased by thirty percent." Qin Yun said as he shook his head. Soon, he had devoured the whole bun. "There''s another benefit of cultivating. I''m able to eat as much as I want! I won''t feel bloated no matter how much I eat. This is absolutely enviable to any epicure."


    At Qin Yun''s level, he could live even if he did not eat or drink. Conversely, he did not feel bloated by continuous eating and drinking.


    "There''s candied fruit up ahead. It''s been a while since I ate that. Let''s go. I''m buying one. Do you want one?" Qin Yun began walking to the store up ahead.


    "Alright, buy me one too," said Yi Xiao.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "What happened?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    Qin Yun sensed the tiny vibrations from the Intrinsic Flying Sword in him. It had been more than a year and his Intrinsic Flying Sword had absorbed numerous treasures. All the treasures added up slightly exceeded the cost of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. Thankfully, he had made quite a killing at the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven that allowed him to spend that much.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has finally been nurtured to its peak. I need to absorb some more treasures before it breaks through," said Qin Yun.


    "You can break through to the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure?" Yi Xiao was delighted. "This is the third transcendent-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword in history, right?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded with a smile. He was particularly delighted that his flying sword could reach the transcendent-grade too. His strength would rise once again after the breakthrough of his Intrinsic Flying Sword. However, this was the only way for him to make a rapid breakthrough in strength in a short period of time. As for any enhancements that followed? Those were a lot harder! The improvement of his Dao realm needed time.


    After his flying sword experienced a breakthrough, he could head to the Ancient Skydragon Palace. All according to plan!


    "Should we return now?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "There''s no rush. Let''s eat the candied fruit first before returning." Qin Yun laughed as he went to make the purchase.

 320 Guardian General

    Chapter 320: Guardian General


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After he was done strolling around the city with his wife, Qin Yun entered seclusion upon returning to Qin Manor.


    In his cultivation chamber, there was a large pile of treasures that spanned about fifty feet. Most of the treasures were in the form of Mother of Crimson Waterstone. They were brick-shaped and each one was nearly three feet long. The materials were large and particularly appropriate for the Intrinsic Flying Sword to absorb as it made its breakthrough.


    Hum!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword Misty Rain Sword floated above these treasures like it was a dream or illusion. It floated there like the sort of misty rain it was named for.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged, circulated his Dharma formulation. Accompanied by a sword hum, a radiance flowed across the surface of the Intrinsic Flying Sword. Large numbers of light dots constantly surged into the flying sword at an astonishing speed. Most of the treasures beneath were quickly reduced to dregs. The absorption lasted for more than six hours before the Intrinsic Flying Sword finally stopped its absorption.


    As for the flying sword itself, it came to even more resemble a misty rain, as though a world existed within the dreamy Misty Rain Sword.


    For the Intrinsic Flying Sword to take on this new appearance, it was naturally related to Qin Yun''s strengthened Sword Dao.


    "Whoosh."


    The Misty Rain Sword flew over and under Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers. It possessed a boundless and overwhelming sense of suppression.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has finally reached the transcendent-grade level." Qin Yun reached out his hand as the Misty Rain Sword shrank to three inches and landed in his palm. "If I were to add my power to it, its strength would be superior to ordinary Numinous treasures! However, it is unknown what the detailed divisions of Numinous treasures are."


    Although he had experienced two other worlds through his dream of a hundred years, the weapons in the first world were overly crude. The only thing going for them were the high-quality materials they were made of! The Dao Ancestor had yet to impart his teachings to that world after all.


    As for the second world, there was nothing much to say about their weapons. They didn''t even have immortals, so the weapons were naturally quite basic.


    As for his homeworld, there were Numinous treasures! Out of the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, the immortal abodes, the Four Seas'' Dragon race, and the Skydemon Palace, which of them did not have a few Numinous treasures? Even the weakened Scenic Mountain Sect kept a Numinous treasure, the Tu?ita Divine Fire Talisman Amulet, in the Scenic Yang Immortal Abode back in the day. For example, if Qin Yun could obtain the rest of the corpse of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial from the Ancient Skydragon Palace, he would also obtain the other three Cosmic Bangles. The six Cosmic Bangles combined would form a set that was a Numinous treasure. He would then be considered as having one.


    It was true that some people had a few Numinous treasures, but Numinous treasures were still very rare!


    In the world, only those belonging to strongest group of experts like Patriarch Yi or Cloudfiend Mountain Lord would possess Numinous treasures. As for the weaker ones? Nearly none of them had a Numinous treasure unless they lucked out!


    For example, Qin Yun''s strength with the Intrinsic Flying Sword he had at present allowed him to reach the beginning stages of the third-Firmament Essence Soul realm. But up to this day, he did not even have one Numinous treasure!


    There were just too few Numinous treasures in the world¡­


    Therefore, his homeworld did not have the means to develop any grade division of Numinous treasures.


    However, Patriarch Bai''s Numinous treasure, the Stellar Heavenly Cycle, had been recognized to be the world''s best Numinous treasure. Patriarch Bai relied on it to defend his life from ancient times to present day! He was the oldest living human to date.


    "The increase in strength that each breakthrough of the Intrinsic Flying Sword brings me towards the end is getting more obvious." Qin Yun could sense it. "Yes, at my present strength, a second-grade or third-grade flying sword does not make much of a difference."


    To existences like the Dao Ancestor, there was probably no difference between a tree branch and a Numinous treasure-grade flying sword.


    However, to a weaker person, a divine weapon could raise their strength by ten times, or even a hundred times.


    "I feel like my strength has improved drastically. If I were to encounter that mysterious fiendish demon again, I should be able to put up a fight," thought Qin Yun.


    After some familiarization, Qin Yun stored whatever treasures remained on the ground and left the chamber.


    It was already nightfall and there were lanterns hung everywhere in Qin Manor. There were many places in Grand Dominance City where fireworks could be seen shooting up into the sky. The sound of firecrackers crackled in various spots around the city. It was the fifth day of the new year, explaining the festivities.


    "If only this world didn''t have any wanton killing." Qin Yun looked at this flourishing scene as he thought to himself.


    Behind this peace and joy, the conflict with fiendish demons had never once stopped.


    ¡­


    Early the next day, Qin Yun left Grand Dominance and tore through the sky amid the clouds as he headed west.


    At present, Qin Yun''s casting of the Beam Transformation Art made him a lot faster than before he stepped into the Dao. He was comparable to the world''s Essence Soul experts and could now be considered one of the elite few. He could even compete with a few third-Firmament Essence Soul realm existences. Of course, this was because the casting of the Beam Transformation Art by a sword immortal was tailored for flying. For example, Patriarch Yi, who was only second to Ancestral Master Zhang in the Divine Firmament Chapter, was at a realm much higher than Qin Yun but his speed was only slightly faster than Qin Yun''s.


    One''s flying speed was intricately related to the cultivation system one had.


    "I''ve arrived."


    Qin Yun arrived in the Ancient Skydragon Palace using his secret entrance once again. He followed a familiar path and went straight in. He passed through rundown halls and corridors.


    Soon, he came to the entrance of the palace complex''s interior.


    "Halt!" A ten-foot-tall stocky soldier draped in golden armor appeared. He held a golden hammer in each hand as he glared at Qin Yun angrily. "It''s you again. It''s only been a few years and yet here you are again. Do you have a death wish?"


    "Guardian General, haven''t you heard the saying: ''See people in a different light if you haven''t seen them in three days?'' We have not met for years and my strength has improved a lot from before," quipped Qin Yun with a smile. The ancient Skydragon in the Dragon Palace was already dead. His children and grandchildren were all gone. Even so, this Guardian General had to obey the order to protect the palace complex''s interior. Qin Yun felt a little pity for him.


    The Guardian General also had some intelligence.


    "See people in a different light if you haven''t seen them in three days? Never heard of it." The Guardian General shook his head.


    "Alright. You have been here since ancient times. It''s indeed possible that you have never heard that one." Qin Yun chuckled. "However, you won''t be able to stop me this time."


    "Oh? Human, you talk big. Back then, you fled after I threw my hammer a few times." The Guardian General stuck his belly out and roared, "Since you are talking so big, I''ll let you have another taste of my hammer."


    With that said, surging lightning descended onto the Guardian General. Following that, he threw one of his golden hammers.


    Boom!


    The golden hammer whistled over, cloaked in lightning.


    "Pew." Qin Yun stood his spot, extended his hand, and pointed with his finger. A wisp of extremely sharp Sword Qi flew out from his fingertip. The instant it flew out, it did an abstruse tangling and quivering maneuver, sending the golden hammer tumbling back.


    The Guardian General could not help but widen his eyes when he saw this.


    With his strength, together with the array formation''s augmentation, he could typically defend against anyone below the Essence Soul realm.


    Currently, due to the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s array, immortals and fiendcelestials were barred from entry. And it was rare to encounter mortals that had stepped into the Dao who could defeat him.


    "You defeated me with a wisp of Sword Qi?" The Guardian General looked at Qin Yun. "It''s only been a few years."


    "Actually, it has been a hundred years," Qin Yun sighed.


    "A hundred years?" The Guardian General was puzzled.


    Qin Yun did not elaborate and instead directly walked towards the entrance.


    The Guardian General attempted to stop him as he bellowed, "Halt. You are not to trespass." With that said, he attempted to engage in close combat.


    "Bam!"


    Qin Yun flicked his sleeve as surging Sword Qi spewed out. More than ten beams of Sword Qi enveloped the Guardian General and threw him into a corner. Qin Yun walked right through the entrance and headed for the palace complex''s interior.


    "Phew." The Guardian General stumbled two steps back before he found his footing. He frowned as he looked at Qin Yun. His figure dissipated before he materialized in front of Qin Yun once again.


    "Are you still trying to stop me?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "Human punk." The Guardian General looked at Qin Yun and said helplessly, "I cannot stop you from entering this door. There''s nothing I can do. However, I urge you not to enter! The inner palace is the living area of the Dragon King and his dragon children. Many of the Dragon Palace''s important areas are in there, all with heavy security. The more important the spot, the more powerful the array formation! Some terrifying array formations can span a large area while maintaining their might, easily protecting the important grounds. If you were to enter these important grounds and be tempted to steal the treasures of my Dragon Palace, you might very well lose your life."

 321 Dragon Kings Treasures

    Chapter 321: Dragon King''s Treasures


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Thanks, but since I''ve come all the way here, I naturally have to look around." Qin Yun smiled as he looked at the Guardian General before he continued proceeding forward.


    The Guardian General was helpless as he looked at Qin Yun''s departing back. "He really is the sort who doesn''t heed advice. Although His Majesty is dead, how can the treasures in the Dragon Palace be that easily taken?"


    ¡­


    Although Qin Yun ignored the Guardian General''s advice, he did make sure to not act completely carelessly.


    He definitely had what it took to forge a way in after all.


    "Although the ancient Skydragon was powerful, my current strength is on the verge of the third Firmament Essence Soul realm," thought Qin Yun. "Besides, he has been dead for years. I don''t believe that the array formation he left behind could instantly kill me. Besides, my best techniques are definitely life preservation techniques."


    He proceeded carefully. The inner palace complex was in a greater state of ruin than the exterior. After all, this was where the Other Realm Fiendcelestial had died.


    The intense battle caused many places to collapse outright. Cracks littered the halls and intersected with each other.


    Qin Yun constantly maintained his Dao domain.


    "My Dao domain can completely wipe out any array formation made by a mortal! However, back in the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven, my Dao domain was suppressed by the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm corpse. There are many spots in the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s inner palace complex that I similarly am unable to probe." Qin Yun knew that immortals and fiendcelestials had means to block out a Dao domain.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s eyes suddenly lit up. The palace wall in front of him had opened up into a crack at the end. He could vaguely see the small parts of what was a massive corpse.


    The interior palace complex was originally very strict and ordered. But after that final battle, many places had collapsed, producing many tiny shortcuts.


    "Sou!"


    Taking the shortcut offered by the crack, Qin Yun flew over and soon arrived at the end of the other ruin. There was a gigantic fish corpse lying among the ruins. It was dark yellow in color and resembled a mountain. It was about fifteen hundred meters long and the pressure it put on Qin Yun was also extremely intense. The massive corpse had experienced numerous slices, leaving ghastly wounds.


    "The aura of this Essence Soul great demon is stronger than Black Dragon and Jadeface despite being dead. It''s likely a figure who was at the peak of the second Firmament Essence Soul realm during its time." Qin Yun looked at the fish corpse. "Judging by the wounds, it must have been attacked by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s claws."


    "Its corpse is too big. My Cosmic Bag can''t hold it."


    Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    Following that, he carefully searched the surroundings. He stored away many of the treasures the great demon had left behind. The fish demon had left behind more treasures than Black Dragon and Jadeface combined!


    ¡­


    After obtaining all the treasures of the ancient Essence Soul realm demon, Qin Yun continued.


    Moments later.


    He suddenly saw a lofty tower through a distant corridor''s crack. The tower was extremely massive and appeared to be the tallest building in the interior palace complex. There were three words written above the tower''s entrance¡ªMyriad Treasure Tower.


    "Myriad Treasure Tower?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred. "There is a saying that the East Sea''s Dragon race is the richest in the Four Seas and even the wealthiest in the world. Even if this Ancient Skydragon Palace can''t compete with the East Sea Dragon race who have accumulated resources for such a long period of time, it can''t be too inferior. This Myriad Treasure Tower must have been the treasure repository of the Ancient Skydragon Palace."


    Every faction had a place that they would use to store away their treasures so that they could allocate them to juniors.


    The Dragon Palace had large numbers of Water race soldiers! There were the dragon children as well¡­


    They were given treasures in large numbers depending on their merit and talent.


    At best, the ancient Skydragon would only keep the commonly-used Dharma treasures and certain extremely precious treasures with him. Those that were relatively normal would likely be left in the Myriad Treasure Tower.


    "I might as well take a look." Qin Yun approached it rapidly.


    The Myriad Treasure Tower was thankfully intact and did not suffer any damage. The main door to the tower was also shut.


    "The more important a place, the more dangerous it is." Qin Yun proceeded warily. The Guardian General had also warned him. As he looked at the main door to the tower, he flicked his sleeve and sent out a beam of Sword Qi. It surged towards the main door and blasted it open with a rumble.


    At the instant the main door was pushed open.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun was constantly monitoring his surroundings. When he sensed a change in energy activity, he immediately commanded with his mind.


    Sou!


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately cast the Cyclic Sword Flash, protecting Qin Yun''s immediate surroundings.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The three words on the tower''s entrance blasted out black lightning bolts. Rich black lightning shot straight at Qin Yun, crashing against his huge Cyclic Sword Flash.


    An array formation''s activation would result in a surge of energy at the instant it was triggered, so it naturally could not fool Qin Yun.


    "The Guardian General was right. Places with important treasures are indeed dangerous. However, this lightning can probably be defended against with strength at the second Firmament Essence Soul realm," thought Qin Yun. His Cyclic Sword Flash warded off the black lightning strikes as he looked up. The lightning posed no threat to his Cyclic Sword Flash.


    After the three words produced the smite of lightning, more than a hundred black lightning bolts were shot out consecutively before it finally came to rest.


    Only then did Qin Yun continue deeper into the tower.


    ¡­


    The Cyclic Sword Flash continued to protect him after he stepped into the Myriad Treasure Tower. However, he did not encounter any more danger.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun saw that most of the shelves in the Myriad Treasure Tower were empty. Standing a distance away on the first floor was the Guardian General from before.


    "Brother Guardian General, what happened to the treasures here?" asked Qin Yun.


    The Guardian General held his golden hammers by his waist while his glowing eyes looked amusingly at Qin Yun. "Human punk, I thought little of you at first. As a mortal cultivator, you actually managed to withstand a hundred and eight strikes of the Blackwater Divine Lightning. Impressive! His Majesty, the Dragon King split the treasures of the Myriad Treasure Tower into three sets. He did it this way so that they were suited to three people from a later generation who could enter the Myriad Treasure Tower. Since you are human, this is for you."


    With that said, he threw a palm-sized Cosmic Bag towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun reached out to grab it, and then opened it to take a look.


    The palm-sized Cosmic Bag had an interior that spanned two thousand feet. It could even contain a hill. The items inside actually did form a hill. There were all sorts of Dharma treasures and weapons. They were of different grades with many of them being low-grade. They were probably prepared by the Dragon Palace for the Water race demons!


    Other than the Dharma treasures, there were a massive number of rare resources. Many of them were things that could be mined from the sea, such as basin-sized pearls, or a giant Firejade Coral¡­


    There were also a large number of pills! There were many bottles of pills, but Qin Yun believed that most of them would have lost their medicinal potency by this point. After all, a long time had passed! No matter how well-preserved they were, most of them would have lost their potency.


    The most precious treasures were first-grade Dharma treasures, a total of five of them.


    "Not a single transcendent-grade Dharma treasure?" Qin Yun could not help but laugh as he commented. "From the looks of it, I was given the worst share of the three portions because I''m human, is that so?"


    "Yes," the Guardian General said matter-of-factly as he nodded. "Blame yourself for being the first to come here. If you were the third to arrive in the Myriad Treasure Tower and the two visitors before you were human and had taken a portion away, then the third and best portion would be left to you even if you were human. However, since you are human, you can only take the worst share."


    Qin Yun smiled.


    It was best being the first.


    What he cared about most was the Other Realm Fiendcelestial corpse outside! He had many treasures, and the total amount of his wealth was probably many times more than the entire Myriad Treasure Tower. Besides, there were also a few Essence Soul realm demon corpses.


    "Human punk, you have to understand that you were only able to receive this because His Majesty was willing to give it to you. If he wasn''t, you wouldn''t have received a single item," said the Guardian General. He flipped his hand and took out a bizarre dragon-shaped figurine. He threw it at Qin Yun and said, "Take this treasure well. This is the most precious treasure."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun took it over.


    A dragon-shaped figurine the size of a palm?


    Qin Yun infused a sliver of Dharmic powers to probe the figurine.

 322 Exhortation

    Chapter 322: Exhortation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Junior, all you need to do is activate this figurine and you will be able to contact an expert from an Other Realm. He is my senior brother and has strength far above mine! The figurine you possess allows you to seek his help once and only once."


    "You came to my Dragon Palace, and have obtained the opportunities I left you. Thus, you will be implicated by karma. Remember, you have to ensure that all the existences in this world are well secured. You are not to let the fiendish bastards take them!"


    The voice resounded in Qin Yun''s mind.


    Qin Yun fell silent when he heard the voice. It was an exhortation the ancient Skydragon had left behind before he died. He was able to understand the ancient Skydragon''s intent well.


    The struggle between the beings in this world and the Other Realm Fiendcelestials had never ceased!


    The humans, the Skydemon Palace, the Four Seas Dragon race, and everyone else were all native beings of the world they were in. However, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons had pledged allegiance to the Other Realm Fiendcelestials who had always eyed this world.


    This battle had raged on since ancient times!


    The world experienced numerous wars.


    The world experienced the imparting of the Dao by the Dao Ancestor!


    There were chaotic battles in ancient times! There were even Other Realm Fiendcelestials that had infiltrated the world¡­


    Countless tragic battles occured, with numerous members of the earlier generation dying. The ancient Skydragon was one of them! Fresh blood splattered on the soil and into the sea again and again. Even though generations died, all of them went hoping that their homeworld would never fall into the hands of the fiendcelestials. Even in death, the ancient Skydragon still held hope for his descendants. He looked forward to a good outcome for all races¡ªhumans, demons, and dragons. They were all beings of the world they shared.


    "Dying does not mean the end," thought Qin Yun. "There is Samsara. These ancestors that have died could have experienced Samsara and might have long accomplished great things in other worlds."


    Compared to the ancient times, this world''s beings held the advantage!


    Of course, this was thanks to their predecessors paying the price with their blood. If not, the world would have already been overrun.


    "Senior Ancient Skydragon, I would still give my all to deal with fiendish demons even without your exhortations," thought Qin Yun. Following that, he turned to head out. Since the Dragon King had personally made the arrangements, he knew it was pointless to search for the other two sets of treasures.


    As he left, he took a look at the dragon-shaped figurine. He pondered, "The Guardian General said that this is the most precious item. I can seek the help of the Senior Ancient Skydragon''s senior brother once?"


    Qin Yun found it quite interesting.


    The ancient Skydragon''s senior brother was actually an Other Realm expert.


    "His senior brother is a lot stronger than him! Unfortunately, the ancient Skydragon''s senior brother was unable to save him in time back when he fought the Other Realm Fiendcelestial."


    ¡­


    When he came out of Myriad Treasure Tower, Qin Yun continued searching the interior palace complex.


    He found one Essence Soul realm demon corpse after another. These demons were of varying strength and most of them he estimated to be at the first Firmament Essence Soul realm!


    "This corpse." Qin Yun looked at a white-scaled divine dragon corpse in front of him. Its body twirled for about half a kilometer. It was covered in injuries but it still suffused a pressure that suppressed Qin Yun somewhat. At his present realm, it was very rare for him to feel suppressed. "This corpse is able to give me such a strong sense of suppression. It even feels comparable to the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm. He was likely at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm."


    "Judging from its injuries, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial had taken a long time to kill it." Qin Yun was able to imagine the battle scene from the injuries.


    That battle was indeed intense.


    "That Other Realm Fiendcelestial was overconfident. He actually dared to storm the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s to engage in a massacre! The ancient Skydragon had the advantage of location and numerous subordinates. Yet despite all the advantages, he still died eventually. However, the ancient Skydragon did vanquish the Other Realm Fiendcelestial before his death," thought Qin Yun. "The Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s was probably slightly stronger than the ancient Skydragon! That''s probably why it was so confident. The battle''s development probably defied the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s expectations."


    A battle had many influencing factors to begin with.


    The Other Realm Fiendcelestial could have invaded at all costs for a particular goal too¡­


    "Swoosh."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as he swept the area with Sword Qi. The treasures left behind by the white divine dragon flew up and arrived at Qin Yun''s side.


    "Odd. There isn''t any Cosmic Bag." Qin Yun was puzzled. "What did it use to store items?"


    Qin Yun flipped through the various treasures.


    Qin Yun revealed a look of pleasant surprise as he rummaged through the treasures.


    Apart from the ancient Skydragon and the Other Realm Fiendcelestial, the white divine dragon was the strongest Essence Soul realm demon he had encountered in the Ancient Skydragon Palace so far. The treasures it had left behind shocked Qin Yun.


    "Two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures?" Qin Yun was astonished. "It was not easy to refine Numinous treasures in ancient times. They were far fewer in number when compared to the present. Transcendent-grade Dharma treasures were also extremely scarce. The Essence Soul realm demons, as well as the Myriad Treasure Tower in the Ancient Skydragon Palace, did not have any transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. But this senior actually has two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures? Furthermore, they are such special ones!"


    They were very unique.


    One of them was a robe. After refining it with his Dharmic powers, Qin Yun knew that it was a protective Dharma treasure named Nine Heavens Cloudrobe. The user would appear to be enveloped by cloudy mists when activated. Enemies would find their attacks weakened. Such transcendent-grade Dharma treasures that were used purely for life preservation were extremely valuable.


    The other was a portrait. After refining it, Qin Yun learned that it was a portrait Dharma treasure named Two World Picture. It was an array picture-type Dharma treasure.


    When the array picture was used, it could envelop an area of five hundred kilometers!


    It would cause everything within those five hundred kilometers to form a Two World Array that trapped enemies within. By using the array, he could hold an absolute advantage.


    Furthermore, the Two World Picture''s interior formed a unique space. It was five hundred kilometers wide. However, the height was only a thousand feet. Such a large space could be used to store items but prevented sentient beings from remaining inside.


    The white divine dragon had stored most of its miscellaneous items inside the Two World Picture.


    "There are so many treasures but the ancient Skydragon did not take them away and instead left them on each subordinate''s body. From the looks of it, he had left the matter of which descendants obtained them up to fate." Qin Yun understood this point. "By receiving so many Dharma treasures from this senior dragon, I inherit the karma. However, this senior dragon has been dead for a long while. All I can do is to help the Dragon race a little in the future."


    "Senior Divine Dragon, I will find a way to hand over all your corpses to the East Sea Dragon Palace once I leave. I will definitely get them to handle your bodies appropriately," said Qin Yun.


    The East Sea Dragon Palace was the leader of the Four Seas Dragon Palaces.


    The Dragon race occupied the Four Seas but there was only one who had reached the Skydragon realm among the Four Seas Dragon race! It was the one residing in East Sea Dragon Palace; thus, handing these corpses to the East Sea Dragon Palace was the most appropriate thing to do.


    "Whoosh." He activated the Two World Picture and stored the white divine dragon in it. As the corpse rapidly shrank into the Two World Picture, Qin Yun swept his gaze and was astonished. "This senior dragon was a dragon lady?"


    Unfortunately, this senior dragon lady had died at the hands of the Other Realm Fiendcelestial.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun returned with the Two World Picture and stored the oversized large Essence Soul realm demon corpses in it. Although he had obtained quite a number of treasures, Qin Yun felt suppressed when he saw the wounds on the various corpses of his predecessors.


    In the long rivers of time, too many of his predecessors had been sacrificed. The Ancient Skydragon Palace was just one of many instances.


    "I wonder when all fiendish demons will be eliminated." Qin Yun looked forward to that day. Could he live to see that day?


    Following that, Qin Yun went to the most important place in the interior palace complex¡ªthe spot where the Other Realm Fiendcelestial lay.

 323 Other Realm Fiendcelestial

    Chapter 323: Other Realm Fiendcelestial


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun rapidly proceeded, and soon he arrived in a set of ruins. No palace building remained intact in the surrounding area. Clearly, this was where the battle was most intense.


    "Here!" Qin Yun instantly saw the red-scaled fiendcelestial''s corpse lying in front of him. He had lost one arm and his body was punctured with many holes. The corpse was more than a thousand feet tall and the Dao it gave off was terrifying and sinister. It left Qin Yun utterly stifled! Of course, the three bangles on the remaining arm instantly attracted Qin Yun''s attention.


    Qin Yun approached slowly as thick black mist rose from the fiendcelestial''s corpse, heralding the appearance of fiendmonsters that crouched above the corpse.


    "Fiendmonsters?" Qin Yun thought nothing of them. "If this Other Realm Fiendcelestial were alive, I''d naturally be no match for him. But if it''s merely the fiendmonsters created by a corpse''s aura¡­ they aren''t even worth mentioning."


    Qin Yun even felt safe enough to divert his attention to observe his surroundings.


    This was obviously the main battlefield and he could see traces of blood splattered all over the surrounding ruins! The blood came from all parties. There was the blood of the ancient Skydragon! There was also blood from the Other Realm Fiendcelestial and various great demons. Of course, the most precious item was the ancient Skydragon''s blood for with it came Skydragon Blood Crystals. Qin Yun counted and found nine Skydragon Blood Crystals in total!


    There was also a lot of remnant blood that was covered by the ruins.


    "The ancient Skydragon''s injuries were too heavy. He was damaged to his core, so it was no wonder he died soon after," thought Qin Yun wistfully.


    Back then, Jadeface and Black Dragon had given Qin Yun a lot of information in order to be spared! It made Qin Yun understand the world''s various factions a little better. For example, the Skydragon Blood Crystals were the vital essence of a Skydragon''s body!


    "Roar!"


    "Kill!"


    "Kill him!"


    As Qin Yun carefully observed the blood stains all over the battlefield, the fiendmonsters pounced at him. They appeared ape-like and were humongous in size. They had black scales covering their bodies and the boundaries of the black scales were marked with dark red patterns.


    All of them moved astonishingly fast and possesed formidable might.


    "Eight Ultimates Four Directions, suppress!" Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Immediately, eight flying swords flew out. Their might was such that they seemed like pillars of the world. They stirred the Heaven and Earth and immediately formed a Sword of Heaven Earth!


    Everything went according to plan in the Sword of Heaven Earth''s range.


    Now, the dense horde of fiendmonsters, that numbered in the hundreds, was trapped. They roared crazily and attempted to smash their way out, causing an incessant series of colliding sounds. However, they failed to leave a dent on the Sword of Heaven Earth''s boundary.


    "Each one of these nine hundred fiendmonsters is much stronger than the fiendmonsters generated by the arm alone. Perhaps only a second Firmament Essence Soul realm entity can withstand their combined efforts." Qin Yun gasped in admiration. Of course, they couldn''t do a thing to the Sword of Heaven Earth.


    He trapped them for the time being.


    Qin Yun had a nagging feeling that the Other Realm Fiendcelestial still posed some sort of threat, so he was in no hurry to touch it.


    "Let me gather all the blood first."


    "Whoosh."


    Instantly, hundreds of wisps of Sword Qi flew out from Qin Yun''s body, moving the rubble to the side of the ruin.


    As he cleared the ruin, Qin Yun took out a jade bottle and began searching for Skydragon Blood Crystals. He put them away one by one! There were large pools of red blood that suffused golden light. Within them were round Skydragon Blood Crystals.


    "Time to store these away." He retrieved them from every area.


    Moments later.


    Qin Yun had put away twenty-one Skydragon Blood Crystals. He also stored the Skydragon Blood itself. And once he was done with his preparations, he stared at the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse.


    "For the Other Realm Fiendcelestial to be this strong, he was likely a Skyfiend," thought Qin Yun.


    Skyfiends were at the same realm as Skygods, Skyimmortals, and Skydragons.


    Just like back in the first world of his dream of a hundred years, the Connate Godfields produced a Skygod on the human side. As for the fiendish demons, they lacked a Skyfiend!


    "Since it''s a Skyfiend''s corpse, it''s no wonder Ancestral Master Zhang thought so highly of it. He was even willing to exchange the Otherworld Sword Calabash for an arm." Qin Yun very carefully used his Sword of Heaven Earth to isolate the fiendmonsters in a spot where they could not disturb him. He made it a point to not kill the fiendmonsters because they would just be reborn from the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse. It would only end up being a bother.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun immediately sent out three massive wisps of Golden Core Dharmic powers. They rapidly infused into the three black bangles on the corpse''s wrist.


    At the instant of infusion, the three black bangles began hungrily absorbing the Dharmic powers after going so long without energy. As Qin Yun had experience refining the bangles before, he provided the perfect amount of Golden Core Dharmic power. He rapidly and successfully refined the three ownerless bangles.


    The refinement succeeded in an instant!


    Hum! Hum! Hum!


    The three distant Cosmic Bangles immediately resonated with the three Cosmic Bangles on Qin Yun''s arm. They resembled six parts of a massive weapon and at that moment, all six parts were finally unified, forming a complete Numinous treasure.


    "A Numinous treasure. I, Qin Yun, am finally lucky enough to have a Numinous treasure." Qin Yun smiled happily. "Come over here."


    The three black bangles on the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s arm immediately expanded and rapidly flew off of its claws and headed towards Qin Yun.


    And at that moment¡ª


    A black thread flew from the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse flew straight at Qin Yun!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    "Go."


    The three black bangles on his wrist flew out simultaneously and surrounded the black thread together with the three approaching bangles.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The six Cosmic Bangles surrounded the black thread and struck it collectively, again and again, producing horrifying collision sounds! The six Cosmic Bangles had formed a unified entity. They were extremely powerful under Qin Yun''s control. As the six bangles surrounded and smashed down, the black thread began distorting from the impacts. It even gave a loud roar. It was a poisonous worm, a bit like an earthworm, and it was putting up a crazy struggle.


    However, under the continued smashing of the six Cosmic Bangles, its injuries only turned for the worse.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was constantly floating at the ready, preventing the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse from making any strange moves.


    "Is this poisonous worm the legendary Fiendheart Worm?" Qin Yun made a guess. "I heard that some fiendcelestials rear a Fiendheart Worm in their hearts. The worm can aid one''s cultivation and has many uses, such as probing and the controlling of hearts. Once the host dies, it continues to obey its host''s orders. However, this Fiendheart Worm has to rely on its host. Without its host, its strength declines drastically if it''s not given sufficient nourishment for long periods of time. It will be completely trapped by the Cosmic Bangles'' seal and might even be heavily damaged."


    The Fiendheart Worm struggled and roared but ultimately, it was vanquished under the concerted efforts of the six Cosmic Bangles.


    "Seal!"


    Only then did Qin Yun take full control of the six Cosmic Bangles.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The six Cosmic Bangles enlarged as they latched onto the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse, sealing off all its energy. Its aura was also completely sealed.


    The large army of fiendmonsters outside dissipated as a result.


    "From the looks of it, there''s nothing left?" Qin Yun carefully looked at the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse before casting a sealing art on it. With his present Dao realm, he had also cultivated in many commonly used Dharma spells over the past year! His Dharma spells were increasingly brilliant, so it was rather easy to seal off the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s aura.

 324 The Heaven-Inspecting Mirrors Stirs

    Chapter 324: The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror''s Stirs


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After Qin Yun completed the seal.


    "Return."


    The six Cosmic Bangles flew back to Qin Yun''s wrist.


    He looked at the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse whose aura had been sealed. There was complete silence.


    With a beckon of his hand, all the treasures that the Other Realm Fiendcelestial once carried with him were put away. The corpse remained inactive, allowing for Qin Yun to secretly heave a sigh of relief.


    "There shouldn''t be any more problems." Qin Yun took out the Two World Picture and, under its effect, the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse rapidly flew over and shrank before immediately entering the Two World Picture. "While inside the Two World Picture, it will be completely under my control even if were to become active again."


    Following that, he checked the treasures the Other Realm Fiendcelestial had carried on him.


    He was quite surprised by what he found. Other than the most precious Cosmic Bangles, the remaining treasures were about equal to the senior dragon lady''s. Qin Yun had not cultivated for long so he was still very satisfied. It was just less than what he expected an Other Realm Fiendcelestial to have.


    "He''s poorer than I expected. This is an Other Realm Skyfiend, after all. These paltry treasures are too little for one of your status," thought Qin Yun. "Both Ancestral Master Zhang and Patriarch Bai have a lot more treasures than you. Are fiendcelestials usually this poor?"


    Of course, it also had to do with their respective cultivation systems.


    The Other Realm Fiendcelestial mainly cultivated his body. He relied on his body and claws in combat. All his treasures, therefore, were meant to be used on his body! Back when Qin Yun had the Skyfiend''s arm, Ancestral Master Zhang was willing to exchange it for the Otherworld Sword Calabash! It made the value of the body evident.


    For instance, Ancestral Master Zhang and Patriarch Bai were Daoist cultivators. Their bodies were a lot weaker so they relied on Dharma treasures, talisman amulets, and Dharma spells to engage in battle. It was natural for them to have many treasures.


    ¡­


    The interior palace complex was also split into many regions.


    After all, the various dragon children had lived there. Many Essence Soul realm demons lived there too. Their living areas were naturally well demarcated! Although the main battlefield was in ruins, these places were relatively intact. These regions that remained intact had complete seals that prevented Qin Yun from entering.


    "It seems I have already covered the entirety of the main battlefield. This is where most of the treasures are. The amount I have obtained is truly stunning." Qin Yun stood by the entrance and observed carefully. "This is the corridor entrance that leads to the center of the main hall. Unfortunately, it has been sealed."


    "Still, I''ll give it a try."


    Qin Yun cast out his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The world trembled as ripples formed in the void.


    There were rumblings and a sense of terrifying might. Even the Guardian General, who was watching from a distant ruin, was stunned. "This is his true strength? A mortal cultivator can have such strength?"


    "I can''t crack it. From the looks of it, the ancient Skydragon did not want people to touch his corpse," thought Qin Yun. He went around and came to a crack in a wall. The crack extended for a few kilometers and even passed through the centermost hall.


    Through the crack, he could see parts of the gigantic dragon corpse''s golden scales.


    "From the might I sense, I can confirm that he''s an ancient Skydragon." Qin Yun smiled as he shook his head. "It''s time I return."


    ******


    Qin Yun received a bountiful harvest from his trip to the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    The large number of treasures he possessed might not be comparable to Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, or Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva but he had treasures on the same level as the patriarchs of thousand-year-old families like the Yi family, Zhu family, and Zhongli family, as well as Cloudfiend Mountain Lord. It made him no different from those at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Even Immortal Scenic Yang did not have much more than Qin Yun back in his day.


    The days that followed were even quieter and more peaceful.


    Due to the excellent cultivation conditions Yi Xiao had and her having grasped Lightning Intent a long time ago, she finally reached the Connate Golden Core realm about half a year after Qin Yun returned from the Ancient Skydragon Palace. This also delighted Qin Yun greatly.


    However, it only made Yi Xiao even more anxious.


    Her strength was growing?


    Wouldn''t that make bearing a child even harder?


    ¡­


    Days passed as the world remained in relative peace.


    In a blink of an eye, it had been three years since Qin Yun fought the mysterious fiendish demon outside Grand Dominance City.


    A gigantic bronze sphere floated in a hall of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance headquarters. The bronze sphere had mountains, rivers, and lakes on its surface. This bronze sphere was the cornerstone Numinous treasure of humanity¡ªthe Heaven-Inspecting Mirror!


    "Oh?" Two Connate False Core cultivators that were tasked with watching the sphere were taken aback.


    "Boom!"


    The bronze sphere began to vibrate violently.


    "What''s going on? What''s happening to the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror?" The two cultivators on duty were alarmed.


    "The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror monitors the world and can investigate all sorts of disturbances. It has never experienced such intense vibrations before." This was a job that they had had for decades, but they had never seen the sphere act this way before.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    One figure after another rushed into the hall.


    The two cultivators on duty were given a shock when they saw what had happened. Those that had rushed in were a group of Elders with the highest standing in the Inspector Heavenly Alliance¡ªElder Qian, Elder Wang, Elder Sun, Elder Bai, and other equal Elders.


    "Our Inspector Heavenly Alliance has this many resident Elders?" The duo was alarmed. They had never seen Elder Sun or Elder Bai before.


    However, they bowed politely. "Elders."


    At that moment, the seven Elders'' eyes were fixated on the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror.


    "The both of you can leave for now," said Elder Qian with a frown.


    "Yes."


    The duo immediately took their leave.


    When they left the hall, the duo exchanged uneasy looks. They discussed through voice transmissions. "Junior Sister, what do you think happened? Why would the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror shake so violently? It even caused the seven Elders to rush here."


    "Could there be a problem with the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror? Is it broken?"


    "What nonsense are you talking? How can a cornerstone Numinous treasure of humanity randomly break?" The two Connate False Core cultivators felt a sense of ominousness.


    And inside the hall.


    There were seven Essence Soul realm Elders with nasty expressions.


    "Show yourself." A thin man, Elder Sun, said softly. Immediately, a form appeared on the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, revealing a cosmic phantom.


    The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was like a planet.


    On the planet, there were the continent and oceans. There were also the clouds and cosmos above it.


    "Boom~" An intense furor appeared on the spot of the phantom.


    "A World Entrance!" Elder Sun murmured softly. "A new world entrance. Ancestral Master Zhang was right. That mysterious fiendish demon appears to be an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that has descended into this world. He gathered the powers from flesh and blood in order to sacrifice them on a World Altar, so as to open a new World Entrance."


    "I have informed my patriarch," said Elder Bai.


    "I have also informed Human Emperor." Elder Sun nodded.


    "Bodhisattva has been informed as well." A Buddhist arhat with disheveled hair said.


    They represented their respective factions.


    The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was a cornerstone Numinous treasure of humanity that constantly monitored the world.


    The Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was explained to mortal cultivators as a means of monitoring various activities around the world. This was indeed one of the functions of the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror. However, it''s most important feature was to constantly monitor the space around the world! Once a new entrance into the world was discovered, the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror would instantly detect it! They could then use the information to act quickly and reduce any damage done by fiendish entities.

 325 Reincarnated Immortals

    Chapter 325: Reincarnated Immortals


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As the southernmost prefecture of the world, South Sea Prefecture was extremely hot and humid.


    In the region around Mt. Torturous, a massive array formation had been secretly set up. It enveloped fifteen kilometers of the surrounding area.


    "Brother He Qian, now that everything is done, all that''s left is the final sacrifice. Then, I won''t be staying here any longer. I bid you farewell," said a black-robed elder with a single horn.


    "Sect Master Boor Ancestral, if your Boor Ancestral Sect were to do its best to aid me, we would be able to fend off the immortals and Bodhisattvas when they come attacking," said the purple-robed He Qian with a smile. "If both of us join forces, there''s definitely a chance that we can hold out long enough for the World Entrance to open up to a great size. That will allow all the fiendcelestials to descend upon this world. If that happens, it will be a massive success."


    "Haha¡­ Then, let me congratulate you in advance, Brother He Qian," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a laugh. "However, my Boor Ancestral Sect does not dare take such risks! The array set up here is far from comparable to the one that has protected my Boor Ancestral Sect for hundreds of thousands of years. It was improved over generations after all. The two Daoist Skyimmortals, the Buddhist Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva, and even the East Sea''s Skydragon might attack. If I tried to stand my ground here, we might stall them at best but our defenses would eventually fall."


    He took a pause and then continued, "If we fail to stall for enough time, the World Entrance will not be large enough. With no fiendcelestials to back us, this might result in my Boor Ancestral Sect''s destruction."


    "Haha, my Boor Ancestral Sect has survived since ancient times and it''s because we never take excessive risks," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a faint smile.


    He Qian nodded slightly.


    He too understood that it was not pragmatic for the Boor Ancestral Sect to risk their entire sect''s fate based on a few words of persuasion. After all, the fiendish demons that submitted themselves to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial were extremely selfish.


    "Brother He Qian, now that the array encompasses fifteen kilometers, nine villages are included in its range. That accounts for more than fifty thousand villagers," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a smile. "You are currently a mortal fiendish demon with fifty thousand human hostages¡­ it would prove difficult for those immortals to brazenly attack your array formation."


    He Qian nodded slightly.


    "Haha, I''ll be waiting for your good news." After Sect Master Boor Ancestral said that, he whistled into the distant horizon in the form of a black wind.


    He Qian peered into the distance and scoffed. "He''s clearly a boorish bull but he''s extremely crafty."


    Following that, he turned around and took a step to a platform by the mountainside.


    There was the World Altar! The massive altar was completely black in color. There were countless mystic patterns on its surface. The World Altar, as well as the surrounding array, was the product of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s investment!


    "Come on! Come!"


    He Qian felt excited.


    "It''s been hundreds of thousands of years. It was not easy for me to descend into this world. If I succeed this time, I will earn great merit for my homeworld. I would have a chance of surviving the tribulations and becoming a Skyfiend." He Qian began activating the World Altar. The powers he had gained previously from killing 360,000 humans had already been placed within.


    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"


    The power of the flesh and blood began to stir as it spread to every spot in the World Altar.


    "Open!"


    He Qian''s eyes were filled with frenzy.


    He had spent several years traveling the world to seek a spatial node. An excellent spatial node made the opening of a World Entrance tens if not a hundred times easier.


    Rip!


    Above the mountainside, a dark purple rift suddenly tore open in the sky. It was a vortex passage that, with time, would only grow larger.


    Through the vortex passage, one could clearly see the world on the other end.


    It was a vast and majestic world! A world filled with surging fiendish auras. Terrifying beings called it home.


    "Wuha, you have done a great job. Hold back the cultivators from that world as long as you can." A voice sounded from the vortex passageway.


    "Yes, Monarch Chanfu," said He Qian immediately.


    ¡­


    At the moment He Qian used the World Altar to open the World Entrance, the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s Skydemon Palace immediately sensed it. Soon, the imperial government, the three sacred Daoist lands and Buddhist lands, the Skydemon Palace, and Four Seas Dragon Palace learned of the event.


    Boom! Boom!


    Batch after batch of expert cultivators rushed over. Skydemon Palace and the East Sea Dragon Palace also sent their Essence Soul realm experts.


    Soon, a large group of Essence Soul realm experts was gathered on a cloud. Leading them was the Daoist Skyimmortal, Ancestral Master Zhang, and the imperial government''s Human Emperor.


    "Greetings, Human Emperor."


    "Senior Zhang."


    "Your Majesty."


    There were all forms of addressing going on. Human Emperor was a Skygod and with his true body he suppressed one of the greatest catastrophes in the world! The entity that was presently there was only an avatar of his. Therefore, the main person in charge was still the Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang.


    There were twenty figures gathered on the cloud. Hong Lingtong was among them, standing beside Human Emperor.


    "Hahaha, this array of mine covers more than fifty thousand mortal humans. Try coming in if you have the guts to do so." Amid the array''s billowing black smoke, He Qian''s voice was heard.


    On the cloud, Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, and the rest frowned.


    "I was the first to arrive. I have already made an attempt," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "If we crack the array, we would definitely harm innocents."


    By the side, Human Emperor said with a nod, "Although Brother Zhang and I have survived the heavenly tribulations and are able to withstand the karma of injuring some mortals, neither one of us can withstand the karma of fifty thousand mortals."


    Skyimmortals and Skygods would experience more karma than typical Essence Soul experts. One had to suffer the tribulations in the Essence Soul realm but Skyimmortals and Skygods did not experience them. They had eternal life in the truest sense of the phrase. As long as they did not involve themselves in matters of the mortal world, they could live carefree as everlasting immortals. However, they could not act wantonly. They too were bound by the heavenly rules. If they ignored them, their outcome would only be tragic.


    "Fifty thousand mortal humans." Everyone present was troubled. If entities at the Essence Soul realm were to harm innocent lives, they might immediately be struck dead by heavenly punishment.


    "Innocent lives will be implicated if we attempt to crack the array." A dragon from the East Sea said with a sigh. "As for that mysterious fiendish demon, he is a mortal fiendish demon. He doesn''t care for mortal lives."


    "Then, the only option we have is to send mortal cultivators inside," said a plump elder with a smile. "My family''s Eighth Zhu can fight that mortal fiendish demon."


    "Oh?"


    Immediately, many people turned to face him.


    Even Human Emperor and Ancestral Master Zhang were surprised.


    "Brother Zhu, that mortal fiendish demon can produce strength equivalent to the early third Firmament Essence Soul realm," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    The plump elder was the Zhu family''s patriarch.


    The Primordial Chaos Sect was a famous family clan in the cultivation world. The Zhu family''s patriarch cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation and had reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. His body was so unbelievably strong that even Skyimmortals and Skygods could do nothing to him.


    "Eighth Zhu?" Human Emperor looked at the azure-dressed youth standing beside Patriarch Zhu. The youth was a smiling young man with a companion saber by his waist.


    "I won''t keep it from everyone," said Patriarch Zhu with a smile. "This kid, Eighth Zhu, was an immortal in his previous life."


    "A reincarnated immortal?"


    Everyone around was astonished. Although there had been reincarnated immortals in history, it was rare to see one in person.


    "Hahaha, it looks like light from providence has shone upon us humans," said Human Emperor with a laugh. He looked at Hong Lingtong beside him. "This cultivator standing beside me is from Jiang Prefecture. He''s Hong Lingtong, or some people call him Ninth Hong. He too is a reincarnated immortal."


    "He''s also a reincarnated immortal?"


    "The humans sure have a tremendous heritage."


    The experts from Skydemon Palace and East Sea Dragon Palace faltered upon hearing this.


    Two reincarnated immortals had appeared without a word?


    Ninth Hong and Eighth Zhu locked gazes.


    "Ninth Hong is good at divining the past and future and he is an expert in array formations," explained Human Emperor.


    "My family''s Eighth Zhu is an expert at array formations and his saber arts are fairly formidable," said Patriarch Zhu.


    "In that case, let''s get the two of them to take action and quickly resolve this matter with the mysterious fiendish demon so as to seal the World Entrance," instructed Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes."


    Eighth Zhu and Hong Lingtong immediately obeyed the order.


    They did not dare act arrogantly in front of Ancestral Master Zhang. Even in their past lives, they had only reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. As they failed to survive the tribulations to become carefree Skyimmortals, the threat of continuous tribulations compelled them to choose the treacherous path of reincarnation.


    Whoosh.


    The duo immediately transformed into streams of light as they charged towards the distant array formation.


    "Old Pig, is that you?" asked Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission.


    "You are Daoist Liu?" questioned Eighth Zhu with a voice transmission.


    "Hahaha¡­ Old Pig, you are a demon immortal but you ended up reincarnating as a human," said Hong Lingtong jokingly through a voice transmission.


    "There are no guarantees when it comes to reincarnation. Back then, nine of us immortals chose to reincarnate together. We all chose this Great Chang world but are we the only two that have awoken?" asked Eighth Zhu with a voice transmission.

 326 Summoning Qin Yun

    Chapter 326: Summoning Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "A reincarnated immortal can only awaken if they cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm. Even then, it''s still very difficult to be awakened. Back then, the nine of us reincarnated together. Perhaps some of us are forever stuck in Samsara," said Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission. Following that, he looked at Eighth Zhu. "Let''s not talk about this now. Old Pig, let''s think of a way to deal with this fiendish demon."


    "Yes, you are better with array formations than me. You give the array a shot," said Eighth Zhu through a voice transmission. "I''ll fight him head-on."


    "Alright." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    Hong Lingtong was able to pursue good fortune, avoiding disaster by searching for the most suitable node to crack. He was naturally better at setting up and cracking arrays when compared to Eighth Zhu.


    ¡­


    The array that He Qian set up covered nine villages within its fifteen kilometers span.


    "What happened?"


    "Why has the sky turned dark?"


    In one of the villages, many villagers looked at the sky in alarm. It had been a bright day but, in a blink of an eye, it had turned dark. A black fog was billowing over from all corners.


    "Look! Look!"


    "What''s that?"


    Many villagers looked into the distance. Amid the darkened sky, there were two gigantic rock columns. They formed something towering and massive.


    "To think that two mortal cultivators would come here courting death? Haha, if they had sent Qin Yun, it would have been interesting. As for the two of you! Die!" The two lofty columns strode forward and as the black fog billowed, revealing a towering figure.


    "It''s a giant! He''s so tall. He''s even taller than our back mountain."


    "He must be a heavenly soldier that has descended into the mortal world."


    "It''s a God, an omnipotent God!"


    The villagers were dumbfounded from shock. The towering three-thousand-foot mountain giant, He Qian, had indeed given the mortal villagers a shock.


    ¡­


    He Qian had a mountain body, and so could transform into a towering three-thousand-foot tall giant. He laughed as he brandished his palms, striking out like he was swatting two flies! His stone palms were hundreds of feet wide and he could blot out the sky by flailing them.


    "Fiendish demon, rein yourself in!" The handsome youth, Eighth Zhu flashed and grew to a height of two thousand feet. Unlike He Qian with his mountainous body, Eighth Zhu cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage. His flesh was still undeniably human but his skin suffused a luster that resembled that of a Dharma treasure.


    After Eighth Zhu transformed into his own towering form, he instantly cleaved with his saber.


    Boom! Boom!


    The two towering figures engaged in an intense battle. Eighth Zhu''s figure flashed around like a ghost. His saber arts were extremely profound, making his style like a game of chess as he used tactics to anticipate his foe''s movements. He Qian was an Other Realm Fiendcelestial that had cultivated for hundreds of thousands of years. He had rich combat experience, and so was completely able to hold his own.


    Both sides fought to a standstill.


    "What? He''s cracking the array?" He Qian was alarmed when he discovered that Hong Lingtong was cracking the array. In a short period of time, Hong Lingtong had managed to crack one of the array''s nodes while He Qian was engaged in battle. This alarmed He Qian. "For him to have such attainment in array formations, it looks like the both of you are reincarnated immortals."


    "Boom!"


    He Qian immediately gave a mental command, triggering the entire array formation.


    The array formation''s might surged at Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu with overwhelming strength. Under the array formation''s repression, Eighth Zhu was immediately placed at the disadvantage.


    "Bam!" Eighth Zhu was sent flying backward when he was struck by a palm. He Qian also diverted his attention to send Hong Lingtong flying with a kick! Hong Lingtong was weaker when it came to close combat. The gap between him and the fiendish demon was accentuated thanks to the repression coming from the array formation. He was sent flying.


    "Go!" He Qian diverted his attention to activate a first-grade Dharma treasure, Solar Treasure Wheel. It spun as it pursued Hong Lingtong.


    After one of the array formations was cracked, He Qian immediately knew he had to be careful.


    He used all his strength to control the array formation while facing the two reincarnated immortals. With the array formation''s help, he completely suppressed the duo.


    "Old Pig, that won''t do. You have to fully hold him back or I''ll be unable to calm my mind to crack the array," said Hong Lingtong through an anxious voice transmission. At the same time, he was avoiding the spinning Solar Treasure Wheel.


    "Daoist Liu, I only just recovered my memories after reaching the Connate Golden Core realm." Eighth Zhu could not help but say. "I did not form a purplish-gold Golden Core. My Physical Establishing Sage was able to be cultivated to this stage because of my high insights. However, my Dharmic powers are still weak. I couldn''t control a Numinous treasure even if it was placed right in front of me. I am already doing my best."


    Eighth Zhu was helpless as well.


    He was the same as Hong Lingtong. Although they were considered geniuses after their reincarnation, they were a lot weaker than Qin Yun.


    Both of them regained their memories after attaining the Connate Golden Core realm! They failed to form a purplish-gold Golden Core and were unable to use overly powerful Dharma treasures! Their Dharmic powers were also weak.


    Eighth Zhu, Hong Lingtong, and He Qian were in similar situations. They were weak when it came to Dharmic powers and Dharma treasures but their realms were surprisingly high.


    Now, He Qian had the situational advantage of an array formation. The duo was unable to do much to him for the time being.


    "I''m so infuriated that I feel like breaking through to the Essence Soul realm now," said Eighth Zhu angrily through a voice transmission.


    "Once you break through to the Essence Soul realm, this mortal fiendish demon no longer needs to worry about fighting you. And if you attack the array formation, the aftershocks would cause the death of countless mortal villagers. The tribulations would befall you and you might immediately lose your life," said Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission. The both of them just needed to spare a bit of time to cultivate to the third Firmament Essence Soul realm but they were in no hurry to make that breakthrough.


    Being mortal had its advantages. Although they were weaker, they were not beholden to most of the heavenly rules.


    They could break through at any time they wanted.


    "Your Majesty, this fiendish demon holds the advantage due to his array formation. Brother Eighth Zhu and I are unable to crack the array for now." Hong Lingtong sent Human Emperor a voice transmission.


    ¡­


    On a cloud far away, the immortals from all factions were gathered.


    "As reincarnated immortals, the both of them have strength relatively close to the fiendish demon''s. However, the fiendish demon has an array formation and it cannot be cracked anytime soon." Human Emperor frowned. "What do we do now?"


    "Your Majesty," said a wizened elder. "Let me do it. I''ll charge in and vanquish that fiendish demon."


    "Brother Qian, if you were to forcibly charge in and strike at the array formation''s might, that fiendish demon will definitely take advantage and harm many of the fifty thousand mortal villagers. The tribulations might befall you immediately, taking your life," said Patriarch Zhu immediately.


    Elder Qian shook his head. "I''m fast enough. Before the tribulations strike me, I should be able to rid us of that fiendish demon in time. All of you should know that I have been suffering the torment of the tribulations all this while. Even if I were to drag out this ignoble existence, it would only be for several centuries. I might as well give up this life if it means destroying the catastrophe! That World Entrance is expanding as we speak. It probably won''t be long before first Firmament Essence Soul realm fiendcelestials start to enter our world. The longer we delay, the more trouble it will be."


    "Brother Qian." All the surrounding experts fell silent.


    Elder Qian was rather famous in the world.


    He rid the world of evil in his youth but as a result of offending the fiendish demons, his family was wiped out. All of his loved ones were killed. From that moment forth, Elder Qian changed as a person. He turned colder and, despite knowing that the tribulations would be stronger with the increase in karma, he always charged to the forefront during battles¡­ He basically suffered a tribulation almost every ten days.


    However, Elder Qian had cultivated to the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. He permanently presided over the Inspector Heavenly Alliance''s headquarters.


    "Old Qian, don''t just go risking your life. There''s still one person left who can help us," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Grand Dominance''s Qin Yun might not be a reincarnated immortal but he did fight this fiendish demon a few years ago. He was only slightly disadvantaged and was even able to protect himself! I believe that his strength has improved over the past few years. He might even be a match for this fiendish demon. If he joins forces with Eighth Zhu and Ninth Hong, they might have a chance of cracking the array."


    "Qin Yun?" remarked Human Emperor immediately. "It was said that when he first stepped into the Dao, he didn''t even have the strength to kill Paramount realm fiendish demons. From the looks of it, he had only condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core."


    "That''s right. He has a purplish-gold Golden Core. I long knew that. But with his Dharmic powers, he can use powerful Dharma treasures," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I''ll send him a voice transmission now to get him to rush here."


    At the third Firmament Essence Soul realm, one could typically sense tens of thousands of kilometers through the Heaven and Earth powers.


    With Ancestral Master Zhang''s strength, he could sense all the Heaven and Earth powers in the world, so he could naturally send a voice transmission.


    ¡­


    Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun engaged in sword practice and Dao enlightenment every day. He would accompany his wife as she did her calligraphy. He led quite a carefree life. Ever since Qin Yun slew the five Paramount realm fiendish demons, it was rare for the world to require his assistance.


    Qin Yun''s final stepping into the Dao forged a robust Sword Dao foundation. What followed was a period of rapid growth. He gained new insights almost every other day. Furthermore, he had completed the set of the Cosmic Bangles Numinous treasure and had the stone wall palm arts from the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm. All these required him to slowly study them. The Cosmic Bangles formed a cosmic world of their own, resembling Qin Yun''s Sword Dao. Hence, the set was worth studying.


    As for the stone wall palm arts, they were even more profound! There was a reason why the Other Realm Yellow Wyrm deemed it the most impressive art that he had ever encountered.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    A cold wind blew as huge snowflakes the size of goose feathers fluttered. Yi Xiao was heating up alcohol in a tea room while Qin Yun was leisurely practicing his calligraphy.


    Every character contained the wonders of his sword art.


    Practicing calligraphy was also a form of sword practice.


    "Brother Yun, your calligraphy is improving. Don''t throw them away. Keep them well." Yi Xiao was watching by the side.


    "Calligraphy requires calmness of mind. Every stroke in each character represents different sword moves. All the sword moves combine to form a character, so every character is a set of sword arts," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Only when the set of sword arts is sufficiently perfect does the character look good. If the character doesn''t look good, it means that this sword art possesses flaws. Thus, calligraphy is a way of looking at one''s sword art from a different angle. All paths lead to the same end goal. By studying one''s sword arts from different angles, it is easier to find flaws."


    Yi Xiao looked at the calligraphy and exclaimed, "Each character is a set of sword arts? Aren''t there more than a hundred sword arts here?"


    "They can easily be obtained at random," replied Qin Yun.


    "Drink a cup of alcohol after you are done with your calligraphy." Yi Xiao poured a bottle of wine for Qin Yun. Steam was still emanating from it.


    "Qin Yun, quickly come to the Mt. Torturous in the South Sea Prefecture''s Chang County." A voice sounded in Qin Yun''s ear. "That mysterious fiendish demon is here. He has opened a World Entrance using a World Altar. He needs to be stopped immediately. Come here as fast as you can. I will meet you."


    "Ancestral Master Zhang?" Qin Yun was astounded as he suddenly stood up.


    "What happened?" The puzzled Yi Xiao put down the alcohol flask.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang is calling for me. It''s something important. I have to head for the South Sea Prefecture immediately," said Qin Yun.


    "Make haste then," urged Yi Xiao when she heard that it was a request from Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun gave a solemn nod.


    Following that, he left the tea room and whooshed off as a stream of light. He streaked across the horizon and headed south.

 327 Striking Ou

    Chapter 327: Striking Out


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun met Ancestral Master Zhang along the way. Ancestral Master Zhang had come to receive him in order to save as much time as possible.


    "Whoosh."


    A purple bolt of lightning blazed through the sky at a speed much faster than anything Qin Yun was capable of.


    "Qin Yun, listen to what I have to say carefully. The World Entrance connects to another world. You can imagine how big a threat that poses. That mysterious fiendish demon has set up a massive array around the World Entrance, and in it are fifty thousand mortal humans. They are his hostages. The strength he produces has reached the outset of the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. In order to resolve this disaster, one solution is to send immortals that are at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm at the very least and risk the lives of the fifty thousand mortals to kill the fiendish demon before the tribulations befall us." As Ancestral Master Zhang traveled with Qin Yun, he explained the situation in detail.


    "An immortal at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm has to be sent to his death? And fifty thousand mortals have to die as well?" Qin Yun shook his head.


    "The other solution is to send mortal cultivators. Thankfully, we currently have two reincarnated immortals," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Two reincarnated immortals?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    As they rushed to their destination, Ancestral Master Zhang continued to explain.


    ¡­


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s speed was the fastest in the world. Even people like Human Emperor and Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Bodhisattva were not his match. After Qin Yun met him, they arrived in the southernmost South Sea Prefecture''s Mt Torturous within ten minutes.


    There was a crowd of immortals and demons gathered on a cloud.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang is back."


    "And with Sword Immortal Qin Yun."


    After a purple flash of lightning lit up across the horizon, Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang arrived on the cloud.


    Qin Yun instantly saw Human Emperor and immediately bowed. "Greetings Your Majesty. Greetings everyone."


    A number of the present experts were stronger than Qin Yun but there was quite a number that were weaker than him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Qin Yun."


    Each of them responded. Many of them were scrutinizing him. They had thought nothing much of a mortal sword immortal, but since Ancestral Master Zhang had claimed that Qin Yun''s strength was almost equal to the mysterious fiendish demon''s, it meant that his strength was close to the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. He was naturally someone every faction in the world had to look up to.


    The two reincarnated immortals, Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu, looked at Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Brother Hong, I never expected you to be a reincarnated immortal. You sure hid it well," said Qin Yun through a voice transmission. They had close ties after all. His nephew was already engaged to Hong Lingtong''s daughter.


    "It hasn''t been long since my memories were awoken. I informed Human Emperor only when I discovered the appearance of a new catastrophe," explained Hong Lingtong through a voice transmission.


    "Qin Yun." Human Emperor pointed to the billowing black fog in the distance and said, "I believe you have been briefed on the situation with this World Entrance. That mysterious fiendish demon''s world node is very unique. In less than half a day, the World Entrance has expanded to a size that a first Firmament Essence Soul realm fiendcelestial could enter through. I believe in about a day''s time, this World Entrance will expand to a size that allows for fiendcelestials at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm to enter."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Ancestral Master Zhang has informed me."


    "Yes, as such, we will be relying on the three of you," said Human Emperor seriously.


    "With you aiding Ninth Hong and Eighth Zhu, there''s at least a seventy percent chance of success," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "I have already informed Human Emperor that if you three are able to resolve this disaster, we will definitely reward you handsomely."


    After all, Elder Qian would have to risk his life if the trio failed.


    "Right, I have a huge gift that is specially prepared for you, Qin Yun," said Human Emperor.


    Qin Yun said immediately, "This disaster threatens our world. It is my duty to resolve it. How can I request any reward from Your Majesty and Ancestral Master Zhang?"


    When Ancestral Master Zhang heard that, he was further impressed by Qin Yun.


    Unfortunately¡­


    His talent was enough to deem him as the strongest sword immortal in all of history! In terms of his Dao''s realm, it would not even be difficult for him to reach the Skyimmortal realm. However, the sword immortal lineage lacked an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation!


    "Yes, we do not need anything either. We reincarnated in order to amass merit," said Hong Lingtong at once. Eighth Zhu also nodded.


    "Haha¡­ Qin Yun, the gift I prepared for you will make you change your mind. However, let''s wait until this disaster is resolved," said Human Emperor with a smile. "All three of you should quickly take action."


    "We''ll leave the discussion on how to settle this disaster to the three of you," added Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun, Hong Lingtong, and Eighth Zhu answered together. Following that, they flew into the distant array formation that was thick with billowing black fog.


    The black fog spanned fifteen kilometers.


    The three-thousand-foot tall mountain giant He Qian was constantly on alert. Clearly, he was preparing to defend with all his strength and buy as much time as possible.


    "I remember the time when the three of us entered Immortal Scenic Yang''s cave abode." said the handsome youth, Eighth Zhu, with a smile. "The three of us sure are fated. Now, we are dealing with this mysterious fiendish demon together. Qin Yun, what do you suggest?"


    "I''ve heard from Ancestral Master Zhang about your strengths. Since the both of you are good at array formations, why don''t I occupy the mysterious fiendish demon while the two of you crack the array? This way, the cracking of the array will go faster," suggested Qin Yun.


    "Are you that confident?" Eighth Zhu was alarmed.


    "Brother Qin Yun, you should know how strong that mysterious fiendish demon is. And now he is being aided by the array formation. I think it''s best if you work with Eighth Zhu to hold him back," persuaded Hong Lingtong.


    "I''ll give it a try by myself first," said Qin Yun.


    Eighth Zhu and Hong Lingtong exchanged looks.


    "Alright, give it a try first." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    "If that fails, we can try something else," added Eighth Zhu.


    Although time was of the essence, they still had a day to resolve the issue. They could afford to waste two hours.


    This was also because of the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror. It could identify a new World Entrance instantly. It gave Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, and company sufficient time to react. In the early times when humanity lacked the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror, the humans would not know of a newly opened World Entrance! They could only detect it through a clairvoyant prediction. However, such divinations could not be constantly made. Furthermore, the fiendish demons would also deliberately hide from the heavens, preventing the secret from being divined.


    Therefore, there had been many situations in history where World Entrances had appeared. There was great peril before the World Entrance''s location was divined! It almost always meant disastrous outcomes.


    There was a reason why the Heaven-Inspecting Mirror was known as the cornerstone Numinous treasure of humanity.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Qin Yun and company immediately separated.


    Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light as he charged straight at He Qian. Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu split off and headed in different directions to crack the array.


    "Qin Yun?" The towering giant looked down, his eyes burning with killing intent. His voice resounded through the world like rolling thunder. "You have finally arrived? I didn''t expect you to willingly come to your death this time after managing to escape last time!"


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun was still a distance away. He waved his hand as a sword beam shot out from his fingertip.


    The surrounding space seemed to freeze as a misty rain-like sword beam condensed into a thread. When it streaked through the sky, void ripples appeared.


    The flying sword was too fast. Although they were five hundred meters apart, the flying sword arrived in front of the mountain giant in a blink of an eye. The giant only had time to wave his hand but at the instant they clashed, the flying sword''s might suddenly revealed itself!


    "Rip!"


    As though a knife was slicing through paper, the thread-like sword flash tore through the void. It caused a black rift to appear! The void had been sliced open! But this was not the second world that appeared during his dream of a hundred years. Qin Yun''s homeworld was clearly more powerful and had deeper heritage. There were Skyimmortals, Skygods, Skydemons, and Bodhisattvas. The black void rift only represented the strength of the attack.


    When He Qian saw the black rift in front of him, his expression changed drastically. With a boom, his massive body was sent flying backward.


    "How long has it been? It''s only been slightly more than three years. Why, why¡­" While he flew backward, He Qian was horrified. He knew that he was in trouble!


    ¡­


    On the distant white cloud, the experts of humanity, the dragons, and Skydemon Palace were watching the battle from afar.


    "Qin Yun did not join forces with Eighth Zhu?" When they saw the trio split, with Qin Yun charging towards the mountain giant alone, it left the immortals appalled.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang previously said that Qin Yun was able to ensure his safety against that mysterious fiendish demon a few years ago. Even if he gotten stronger, he should be about as strong as the reincarnated immortal Eighth Zhu."


    "Eighth Zhu was unable to hold back the fiendish demon, so why did Qin Yun attack alone?"


    Many of the Essence Soul experts were baffled.


    Human Emperor, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Patriarch Zhu did not say a word. All they did was furrow their brows. This was because they believed that Qin Yun and Eighth Zhu would join forces to hold back the mysterious fiendish demon.


    However, they ended up seeing¡ª


    Although the mysterious fiendish demon had made a taunt, with his rumbling voice resonating through the world, Qin Yun had flown over without a word, releasing his Intrinsic Flying Sword!


    He sword struck out!


    It sliced open the void!


    The mysterious fiendish demon was sent flying backward!


    "This¡­"


    "Void rift?" The immortals were astonished and overjoyed.


    "Nicely done." Human Emperor''s eyes flashed with a glint of pleasant surprise. He clenched his fists and could not help but say, "Brother Zhang, this Qin Yun is stronger than you described him to be!"

 328 Escape! Escape! Escape!

    Chapter 328: Escape! Escape! Escape!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up as he peered into the distance. He said rather excitedly, "Qin Yun''s Sword Dao is even stronger than it was three years ago. Although it''s relatively easy to make improvements after the initial stepping into the Dao, it''s still impressive for him to make a such breakthrough in just a few years! What a pity. He cultivates in the sword immortal lineage. It''ll be impossible for him to condense an Essence Soul."


    "If he were to condense an Essence Soul, he wouldn''t be able to take part in operations like this. It''s because he is a mortal sword immortal that he can fight evil in this world," said Human Emperor with a sigh. "He will also receive great merit upon success. Perhaps, he might be able to condense a Merit Glow."


    "So what if he has a Merit Glow?" Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head instead. "To become a Merit Immortal, one needs an immense amount of merit to obtain Merit Gilded Glow. Human Emperor, you suppressed a huge catastrophe but even you are still far from having Merit Gilded Glow, preventing you from becoming a Merit Immortal¡­ It''s still too difficult for Qin Yun to attain eternal life."


    Human Emperor nodded slightly.


    It was already very difficult to become a Skyimmortal.


    But in fact, Merit Immortals were even rarer!


    Merit Immortals did not suffer the tribulations. Although they tended to be weaker in strength, they similarly could live eternally and carefree! Many experts were unwilling to be enemies of Merit Immortals too. They would rather be friends! Merit Immortals had the effect of ensuring the light from providence shined on any faction they were in. Although they were weaker, they had connections all over the world. They were a lot more influential than typical Skyimmortals.


    Of course, many cultivators in the Great Chang world had not even heard of Merit Immortals.


    "Indeed, it''s too difficult for him to attain eternal life." Human Emperor sighed.


    "With his talent, he might have become another Skyimmortal if he did not cultivate in the sword immortal lineage." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head gently. As he chatted with Human Emperor, both of them found it a pity despite them being existences that stood atop the world.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu were doing their best to crack the array formation. They also kept tabs on Qin''s Yun''s battle with the mysterious fiendish demon.


    "What?"


    "He''s even stronger than us reincarnated immortals?"


    Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu were reeling in amazement but they also felt a little annoyed.


    They were amazed because there was a chance at victory! They felt annoyed because they had been cultivating for very long periods of time. Despite them being reincarnations of immortals, they had still been overtaken by Qin Yun. It left them with mixed feelings.


    "Again!" An angry roar sounded from the array formation with the billowing black fog. He Qian roared as he charged forward once again. This time, he was using all of the array formation''s might to repress Qin Yun.


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun stood in midair as he used sword kinesis to control his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was like a swath of misty rain, flying gracefully through the sky, leaving blurry phantom streaks in its wake. He Qian struck out with his gigantic stone palms to block but the flying sword dodged them, causing the palm strikes to constantly miss!


    "It''s too fast and unpredictable." He Qian panicked.


    In terms of his realm, Qin Yun was indeed stronger than three years ago. His Dao domain now spanned thirty kilometers.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword had gone from the first-grade to the transcendent-grade, making it faster and more powerful.


    He had improved in every aspect¡­


    As for the Other Realm Fiendcelestial He Qian, all he had was a mountainous body that was at the pinnacle at the mortal level. Despite having an extremely high realm, he appeared overly clumsy in his new body.


    "Puah Puah Puah!"


    The flying sword tore into He Qian''s mountainous body, carving out deep cracks as large amounts of rubble flew out.


    "I''m being dominated by him despite the aid of the array formation?" He Qian''s combat experience was very rich as well. He instantly understood the gap between them. "I''m unable to defeat him but all I need to do is to stall for time as best as I can. I won''t die with the array formation aiding me!"


    Although rubble was repeatedly being sliced off of He Qian''s mountainous body, the injuries did not affect him much. The rubble would rapidly fly back and fuse into his body.


    "They are very fast at cracking the array."


    He Qian commanded with his mind as his Dharma treasures, Solar Treasure Wheel and Heavy Mountain Seal, flew out separately. One each attacked Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu! He had borrowed two first-grade Dharma treasures from the Boor Ancestral Sect. With his strength, he could keep fighting Qin Yun in close proximity while fully controlling the two first-grade Dharma treasures. Any more and he would not have been able to deliver his full strength.


    "Dharma treasures?" When Qin Yun saw this from outside the array, he immediately waved his hand. The six Cosmic Bangles on his left wrist flew out in response.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The six Cosmic Bangles split up, with three flying to Hong Lingtong and the other three flying to Eighth Zhu.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    While en route, the six Cosmic Bangles separately intercepted the Solar Treasure Wheel and the Heavy Mountain Seal!


    It was a complete Numinous treasure set after all. Although it was not as powerful as Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, it was able to easily hold back the two Dharma treasures.


    "It looks like ordinary flying sword attacks cannot vanquish this fiendish demon."


    While Qin Yun controlled the Cosmic Bangles, he did not let up with his attacks. He immediately used his strongest flying sword move¡ªSorrowful Parting!


    Rip!


    The flying sword streaked across the sky like a nimble seamstress, slicing through the sky easily! It left behind a long black rift. At the same time, his Intrinsic Flying Sword slashed across He Qian''s gigantic rock palms. The sword penetrated his palm silently before stabbing into his body. A boom resounded from where he was struck as the stone palm exploded. Lots of rubble was sent flying from the mountainous body.


    He Qian stumbled in retreat as he turned flustered.


    "This attack''s strength is just too much. I''ll be doomed if he hits me with it approximately twenty times. I can''t let this continue." He Qian knew that he was facing the most dire situation. He was forced into a corner.


    If he allowed the flying sword to continue assaulting him¡­ he would be killed!


    "Must I cast a forbidden spell? I need to stall for a day. Even if I fail to stall them, killing two or three peak third Firmament Essence Soul realms would be considered a great meritorious deed," thought He Qian. "If I were to cast the forbidden spell, I would not gain any merit especially if I was forced to do so by a mortal sword immortal."


    "Qin Yun, stop!" He Qian bellowed angrily.


    However, Qin Yun directed his Intrinsic Flying Sword to produce a curved trajectory as it came attacking again. It cast Sorrowful Parting once again!


    Although this strike burdened his soul, Qin Yun was able to cast it ten times at his present realm! As for what followed after the first ten strikes? He could recover using the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills! In order to deal with the mysterious fiendish demon, Qin Yun was naturally willing to use the pills. Furthermore, back when he killed Black Dragon and Jadeface, he found three more Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. Now, with so much treasure on him, it was not difficult for him to buy more than ten Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills if he so needed.


    Attempts to wear him down?


    He could handle it!


    "Boom!" Rubble blasted apart once more as He Qian suffered tremendous damages again.


    However, both parties produced terrifying explosive blasts at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Instead of blocking the remnant shock wave through the array formation, He Qian protected the shock wave and transferred portions of it to a corner in one of the closest villages.


    There were many villagers watching from afar.


    The black fog was billowing around a towering giant with ceaseless booms coming from the combat.


    The villagers were stunned and flabbergasted.


    "What''s happening?"


    "I do not know."


    "Perhaps immortals are fighting fiendcelestials."


    The villagers were still speculating.


    Suddenly, a shock wave swept through the area, immediately reducing several houses to dust. It also swept up more than ten villagers. Their bodies were incomparable to the rock used to construct their houses. The ten of them were similarly reduced to dust.


    "Brother Er''niu!"


    "Grandpa!"


    "Old Man!"


    Chaos broke out as the villagers who were watching the commotion panicked.


    ¡­


    "Sword Immortal Qin, aren''t you supposed to care for the lives of mortal humans?" He Qian sent a voice transmission immediately. "I just sent a shock wave sweeping through that village. Fewer than twenty people died. If I wished it, the shock waves caused by our battle can extend through the entire array for tens of kilometers. Many of the fifty thousand humans living here would perish."


    "As long as you stop attacking, I will naturally stop harming the innocent." The towering He Qian glared at Qin Yun. He was flustered.


    He was unwilling to use a forbidden skill unless absolutely necessary.


    Therefore, he came up with such a warped method.


    It was worth it if he could stall for even ten minutes.


    The fifty thousand humans had been prepared for the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm cultivators. It would be a waste if he sacrificed them to stop a mortal sword immortal like Qin Yun! Therefore, he had ensured that the shock wave only killed less than twenty people as a warning.


    "Qin Yun, ignore his threats," said Ancestral Master Zhang through a voice transmission. Despite watching the battle from a great distance away, he was able to determine that He Qian was threatening Qin Yun. "If we allow him to act as he pleases, the outcome will be hundreds, if not thousands, of times worse than the deaths of fifty thousand humans."


    "I understand."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    With a sweep of his gaze, he saw the clueless fifty thousand villagers from the nine villages within the array''s billowing black fog.


    "However, these villagers are indeed innocent. Because of this, I have to give it another try and attempt to vanquish this mysterious fiendish demon in one go." Qin Yun was unwilling to see fifty thousand humans die, but He Qian was clearly threatening him. He just needed to attack once and He Qian would likely use the shock waves from the battle to implicate more villagers.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun grabbed with his left hand and a bronze calabash appeared in his hand. Qin Yun used his right hand to pull out the calabash''s stopper.


    "Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash, vanquish!"


    There was a fierce glint in Qin Yun''s eyes as he instantly powered the Dharma treasure.


    A million beams of Sword Qi spewed out from the bronze calabash instantly. Each one had terrifying might, and each one was extremely terrifying on its own. Under the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s control, the million beams formed a terrifying sword array of decimation! Wherever the Sword Qi passed, the void would be ripped to smithereens.


    "Escape! Escape! Escape!" He Qian was so horrified that he instantly cast his forbidden spell. He charged towards the World Entrance behind him at his fastest possible speed in the form of a blurry stream of light. However, he was soon devoured by the destructive, storm-like Sword Qi!

 329 Resolving the Catastrophe

    Chapter 329: Resolving the Catastrophe


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    To complement his mountainous body, He Qian cultivated his body into a weapon through his Dharmic formulations. Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword had only been able to carve out rock fragments from his body up until now.


    But suddenly¡ª


    Against the destructive tempest formed by a million Sword Qi, He Qian''s massive body was rapidly ground to bits. His three-thousand-foot-tall body was being hacked away rapidly¡­


    "How is this possible? How can a mortal sword immortal like him be able to cast such a terrifying attack?" He Qian found it unbelievable. He tried to remain alive with all he had. The Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s combined strike of a million Sword Qi was extremely powerful. Its strength even matched the ordinary strike of a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm expert! Under the terrifying might of the Sword Qi, only one percent of He Qian''s body remained. It was a core purple Stoneheart that was about ten feet across. It transformed into a stream of light and flew into the World Entrance.


    Sou!


    The core of the mountainous body, the Stoneheart, was the hardest. He Qian did all he could to preserve his Stoneheart as he tunneled through the World Entrance.


    Thankfully, he was not very far from the World Entrance and he flew quite fast!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun plugged up the calabash and put it away before beginning his pursuit as a stream of light.


    The five kilometers separating them could be traversed in a blink of an eye, so it was not long before Qin Yun arrived in front of the World Entrance.


    "He escaped rather quickly. If he were a little slower, I might have had a chance of killing him!"


    Qin Yun looked at the dark purple vortex passageway in front of him. It linked directly to a new, alien world.


    Through the vortex passageway, he could clearly see the world on the other side. It was a vast world, and in that world the purple Stoneheart had already transformed into the purple-robed He Qian. He faced in the direction of the Great Chang world while glaring at Qin Yun through the vortex passageway.


    At that moment, both parties simply stared at each other through the vortex passageway.


    "Qin Yun, all my preparations were ruined by you. Wait, wait and see." He Qian''s eyes were filled with indignation and frenzy.


    He Qian suddenly sensed something as he turned his head to look in another direction before hastily bowing, "Monarch Chanfu."


    Qin Yun saw a fiendcelestial that was draped in armor with two curved horns appear. He was stocky and only his upper body could be barely seen. The Other Realm Fiendcelestial named Monarch Chanfu looked at Qin Yun through the vortex passageway from afar. His eyes were cold and indifferent. They did not seem to carry any emotions, but they were instead burning with a destructive aura.


    The sole purpose of his existence seemed to be to destroy.


    Qin Yun''s heart was racing.


    The Other Realm Skyfiend that had died in the Ancient Skydragon Palace was similar to Monarch Chanfu. However, that Other Realm Skyfiend was dead! As for Monarch Chanfu, he was alive and the threat he posed was quite real.


    "His name is Qin Yun?" said Monarch Chanfu.


    "Yes, it''s he who wrecked my¡­" His voice became softer as the vortex passageway was blocked on the other end. Qin Yun could no longer make out what was happening on the other side.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Many figures came flying over.


    The distant immortals, including the two reincarnated immortals, rushed over.


    "Without a controller, this array formation is a lot easier to crack." Hong Lingtong flew to his side and said with a smile, "Our luck isn''t so bad. Nearly all the fifty thousand humans are still alive, all thanks to Qin Yun''s decisive strike. All the Sword Qi that the calabash released nearly killed that mysterious fiendish demon instantly."


    "Qin Yun, what Dharma treasure is that calabash of yours? Why is it so powerful?" Eighth Zhu could not help but ask. He found it amazing that a mortal sword immortal possessed a calabash that could release a might that came close to the peak of the third Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    "This Dharma treasure is even stronger than your Intrinsic Flying Sword." Many of the immortals that had flown over could not help but comment. The final strike from the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash left them astonished.


    Instead, Qin Yun looked towards Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Haha, Qin Yun obtained this Dharma treasure from me," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "Some time ago, I sold it to our young friend Qin Yun at the cost of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. From the looks of it, I sold it for quite a low price."


    By the side, Human Emperor could not help but comment, "Brother Zhang, that is already way too expensive! This Dharma treasure can only be used by sword immortals. And they max out when they cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm. Yet, you still sold it to him at such a price?"


    The others might have been ignorant but Human Emperor was very knowledgeable.


    The Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash had many limitations!


    The greatest limitation was that it could only be used by sword immortals!


    The strength of the buyers determined the cost of the treasure!


    Furthermore, the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash was different from the average Dharma treasures. One needed to infuse wisps of Sword Qi into it daily. Even though Qin Yun had immense purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers, it still took him a year to fill up the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash with enough Sword Qi to activate the Sword Qi array that it contained! That was a year''s worth of preparation, all for one strike!


    If he wanted to use it again? It would take another long year of infusing Sword Qi into it daily before he could do so.


    "Haha¡­"


    Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as he looked at the World Entrance. The other end of the passageway had been blocked. It prevented them from seeing the situation in the other world. "Those Other Realm Fiendcelestials know that it''s hopeless so they have given up on expanding the World Entrance. Let us first seal this World Entrance. After some time, the Great Chang world will naturally heal this wound."


    As he spoke, Ancestral Master Zhang cast a spell.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    A gigantic seal that suffused purple lightning enveloped the World Entrance, sealing it completely.


    "It will probably take a month for the World Entrance to completely close up. I will preside over it while it does," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Nothing bad will happen with Senior Zhang presiding over it."


    "We have Sword Immortal Qin to thank this time. Without him, it wouldn''t have been easy to resolve this disaster."


    The immortals and demons commented.


    However, Hong Lingtong quipped, "Unfortunately, we allowed that mysterious fiendish demon to escape. His body¡­ is that of a native from the Great Chang world! Furthermore, it''s a mortal body. It won''t be difficult for the Other Realm Fiendcelestials to send him to the Great Chang world again."


    "Yes." Human Emperor and company nodded with looks of distress.


    "He will definitely come again." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    Although the two worlds were separated by a great distance, one could temporarily link the two worlds together through a sacrificial altar. Sending energy-related items was very easy. Even sending mortal bodies was not difficult! For example, Nine Mountain Island Lord''s Sanguine Sea Fiend Embryo had been sent from another world. He Qian''s mountainous body belonged to the Great Chang world and was mortal. There was little to prevent him from being sent over.


    "It''s even possible to send him through the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' Grotto-heavens," suggested Patriarch Zhu. "The real question is which world is behind this mysterious fiendish demon?"


    "The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' Grotto-heavens?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    Human Emperor said with a smile, "Each of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' nests has a Grotto-heaven! These Grotto-heavens are equipped with array formations that constantly connect them to another world. They can rely on the strength of the other world for cultivation. Although people call them the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, the Other Realm Fiendcelestials that back the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons all come from different worlds."


    "To us, all of them are Other Realm Fiendcelestials," added Ancestral Master Zhang. "But in fact, many of the Other Realm Fiendcelestials come from different worlds. They actually fight amongst themselves too! The only reason the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demon present a united front is that we currently hold the absolute advantage. If we were wiped out, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons would probably end up fighting each other."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    It wasn''t only one world that was coveting their world.


    Of course, they held the absolute advantage here. The Dao Ancestor had imparted the Dao, the Buddhists were thriving, the Dragon race was powerful, and the demons possessed special cultivation Dharmic formulations. All of them had a history! For example, the dead ancient Skydragon had a senior brother and a master!


    "Let''s not talk about the mortal fiendish demon for now. With Qin Yun''s strength, he is capable of dealing with him." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun as a third eye opened in his glabella.


    "Eye of Lightning?" The other immortals were astonished.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was alarmed when he took a look.


    "Good going, Qin Yun! Your treasure halo is so much higher than what it was previously." Even Ancestral Master Zhang found it somewhat blinding. The Merit Glow he saw from Qin Yun''s body even gave him a sort of sacred appearance. Apart from the Merit Glow, his body suffused all sorts of colorful treasure halos. Each treasure halo represented a particular treasure.


    Even Ancestral Master Zhang was astonished seeing the Merit Glow and the numerous treasure halos that lingered around Qin Yun.


    Back when Qin Yun and He Qian fought outside Grand Dominance City three years ago, Ancestral Master Zhang had once cast his Eye of Lightning and noticed the treasure halos on Qin Yun''s body. Although they were dazzling, it was incomparable to what he had on him now!


    Qin Yun had obtained many treasures from the Ancient Skydragon Palace since that battle outside Grand Dominance City. His treasure halo was naturally a lot more astounding.


    "Qin Yun, have you been to the Ancient Skydragon Palace again?" Ancestral Master Zhang sent Qin Yun a voice transmission.


    "Yes, I have." Qin Yun did not lie.


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s heart stirred as he immediately pressed with a voice transmission, "Did you obtain the rest of that Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse?"

 330 Marquis Confermen

    Chapter 330: Marquis Conferment


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Senior, I was lucky. The Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse was in the inner palace complex of the Ancient Skydragon Palace so I did have a chance to obtain it," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission. He felt rather lucky upon recollection. Thankfully, he had only encountered the fiendcelestial''s body after he stepped into the Dao. If it had happened before he stepped into the Dao, he would have easily been killed by the Fiendheart Worm.


    Perhaps, the fiendmonsters generated by the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse were even enough to obliterate him before he stepped into the Dao.


    Of course, luck was not the only factor. The ancient Skydragon had made arrangements before his death! Those that could survive the various obstacles on the way to the Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse must have had enough strength to survive the danger posed by the corpse itself.


    "You obtained it?" Ancestral Master Zhang was overjoyed. He immediately sent a voice transmission. "You have to sell that Other Realm Fiendcelestial''s corpse to me. I won''t lie to you. That corpse is a Skyfiend''s corpse."


    "Alright," replied Qin Yun through a voice transmission.


    "Then we have an agreement. Don''t sell it to anyone else," confirmed Ancestral Master Zhang through a voice transmission. "Stay behind when the rest of them leave."


    "Senior Zhang, rest assured," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    And at that moment, another person sent a voice transmission to Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, I noticed that the six black bangles you used to deal with the mysterious fiendish demon are a Numinous treasure. Have you been to the Ancient Skydragon Palace? Did you obtain many treasures there?"


    Qin Yun was astonished as he looked at Human Emperor. He replied with a voice transmission as well, "Your Majesty, you have a discerning eye. I did go to the Ancient Skydragon Palace recently and reaped quite a harvest."


    Human Emperor typically spoke in a manner that elevated himself whenever he conversed with mortals. However, he would speak to powerful cultivators as equals.


    Of course, he was the supreme leader of the Godfiend lineage. He was also one of the most powerful existences in the Great Chang world. Although Qin Yun''s combat strength was at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm, he remained extremely respectful towards Human Emperor.


    "Come to the imperial palace when you have the time. You can sell me the treasures you have no need for. I might have things you need," said Human Emperor through a voice transmission. "Treasures are only truly valuable when they are suitable for you! By making exchanges¡­ you can get rid of the ones you have no need for and exchange them for the things you need most. It''s good for everyone."


    "Your Majesty, I''ll visit the imperial palace shortly." Qin Yun agreed as well.


    Although many of the treasures Qin Yun had received from the Ancient Skydragon Palace and the Yellow Wyrm Grotto-heaven were valuable, he had no use for them. It was naturally better for him to sell them.


    ¡­


    All the immortals present had a discerning eye. When Qin Yun used the six Cosmic Bangles, they had determined that it was a Numinous treasure!


    That led them to surmise that Qin Yun had definitely chanced upon a large opportunity and received a great harvest!


    Many of them began sending voice transmissions to him.


    "Everyone."


    Human Emperor''s eyes swept through the crowd as he said with a smile, "Qin Yun, Ninth Hong, and Eighth Zhu have played an important role in averting this catastrophe. The Zhu family will not be included in this since they have been conferred kingship. However, for Qin Yun and Ninth Hong, as per the already established rules, I will confer them with a province to be their fief. I will also bestow them with the title of marquis."


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong exchanged looks and immediately said reverently, "Thank you, Your Majesty."


    The conferring of a fief and the noble title of marquis was a beneficial thing to a family clan. There was no reason to reject it.


    And although it was conferred by the imperial government, the conferment also benefited them! This was because the duo had gained massive merit from preventing the disaster, causing the light from providence to shine on them more brilliantly! By receiving titles and becoming a part of the imperial government, they would share their merit and favor from providence with the imperial government.


    "Congratulations!"


    "Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin. Congratulations, Brother Ninth Hong."


    "For a county to have two marquises is truly excellent. This event will likely be extolled for thousands of years."


    The immortals gave their congratulations.


    Human Emperor said with a smile, "Which province in the Grand Dominance County would the both of you like? Please choose."


    Hong Lingtong and Qin Yun exchanged looks before Hong Lingtong said, "I''ll take Heightened Province."


    "Then, I''ll take Serene Province." Qin Yun also quickly made his decision. The village he lived in during his childhood was located in Serene Province''s vicinity.


    "Alright. It has been settled. The conferment of your marquis titles will be announced to the world three days from now," said Human Emperor with a smile. His words carried weight so whatever he said was naturally confirmed on the spot.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty." Hong Lingtong and Qin Yun were very happy as well.


    The conferment of the title of marquis by the imperial government could be attained at the Connate Paramount realm if one was a descendant of the imperial government.


    Qin Yun and Hong Lingtong, who were not related to the imperial government, could only be conferred nobility if they did something of great merit.


    As for being conferred kingship? One needed to be at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm to be conferred kingship! This was also a way for the imperial government to show favor to such an existence.


    As Human Emperor had to suppress the great catastrophe, the Godfiend lineage was unable to deal with peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm existences without him. It was natural to befriend them.


    As for the conferment of a fief, the fief would be theirs as long as the owner, such as Qin Yun or Patriarch Yi, was alive.


    If they died and there was no powerful cultivator to pass it on to, the family clan would fail to hold onto the fief. The imperial government would take it back as a result.


    "Brother Zhang, I''ll leave the rest to you," said Human Emperor with a smile. "We shall not disturb you any further."


    "Senior Zhang, we bid you farewell."


    Senior Zhang, goodbye."


    People left one by one.


    Human Emperor looked at Qin Yun and exhorted him, "Qin Yun, come with me. I have something to discuss with you in private."


    With people departing, Hong Lingtong said with a smile when he noticed the situation, "Brother Qin Yun, I''ll be leaving first."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Following that, Qin Yun and Human Emperor rode away on a cloud. Human Emperor looked at Qin Yun and said with a smile, "You have been married for more than a decade but the both of you are still childless?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback as he nodded helplessly. "Yes, it''s said that the stronger one is, the harder it is to bear children. Sigh, it''s not like there''s a solution to it."


    "I have cultivated to the Skygod realm. Do you think I cannot have children?" asked Human Emperor with a laugh.


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    That''s right.


    There were more than twenty princes and princesses! Furthermore, most of them were born after Human Emperor ascended the throne.


    Human Emperor was a Skygod! It was much harder for him to bear children when compared to Qin Yun! Yet, he was able to produce so many offspring?


    "There is a mystic art," said Human Emperor with a smile. "It was not easy for me to obtain this mystic art back then. Even now, there are fewer than five people in this Great Chang world who know about this mystic art."


    With that said, Human Emperor flipped his hand as a thin booklet appeared. He handed it to Qin Yun. "I''ll be bestowing this upon you. Didn''t I mention a great prize for you previously? Do you want it?"


    Qin Yun was delighted.


    He and Yi Xiao had been hoping to have children since a long time ago. He had been waiting for so long, so he was delighted by the existence of such a mystic art.


    That''s right. It was more difficult for Skygods and Skyimmortals to bear children due to their strength. It only made sense that one of them would create a Dharmic formulation to get around that restriction.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty." Qin Yun took the booklet excitedly.


    "Remember to visit the imperial palace when you have the time." After Human Emperor said smilingly, he turned and left, quickly disappearing from the horizon.


    Qin Yun immediately flipped through the booklet and read it carefully. The text was filled with Dao charms and after he finished reading them, the text vanished. The booklet crumbled into dust immediately following that.


    The mystic art also invited the envy from the heavens.


    Qin Yun was rather excited, hoping to return immediately to tell Yi Xiao the good news.


    "There are not more than five people who know of this mystic art in the Great Chang world but it was given to me?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. He could appreciate Human Emperor''s sincerity.


    Clearly, his strength was now at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Even if his lifespan was limited to five centuries, he was bound to cause a stir in the world! Human Emperor had done so in order to create good karmic ties with him.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun returned to the World Entrance which was covered in lingering fog. Clearly, Ancestral Master Zhang was setting up an array formation.


    "Qin Yun." Ancestral Master Zhang appeared amid the fog.


    "Senior Zhang."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the Two World Picture. Swoosh!


    A tiny figure immediately flew out of the Two World Picture before it rapidly expanded. It was the red-scaled fiendcelestial corpse that was more than a thousand feet long.


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up. Coupled with the arm he got before, he now had the complete Skyfiend''s corpse. The only thing in the Ancient Skydragon Palace that interested Ancestral Master Zhang was the Skyfiend''s corpse. As for the rest? He thought nothing of it! He did not even care about the Cosmic Bangle Numinous treasure. At his level, ordinary Numinous treasures did not increase his strength at all.


    Only a suitable item was the best!


    "I have encountered many opportunities in my cultivation to date. I have many treasures that you can choose from freely. I''ll consider this Skyfiend corpse as a Numinous treasure." Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as he waved his hand. Immediately, treasures of all different colors appeared.


    In terms of opportunities, Ancestral Master Zhang had a lot more than Qin Yun.


    For instance, the two reincarnated immortals, Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu, knew that Ancestral Master Zhang had been lucky enough to become the personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up when he looked at the various treasures. He thought to himself, "I thought I had quite a lot of treasures but compared to Ancestral Master Zhang, I pale in comparison."


    "Senior Zhang, what is this?" Qin Yun began to ask for details.


    ¡­


    Two hours later.


    Qin Yun left Mt. Torturous in satisfaction. He cast the Beam Transformation Art and flew north towards Jiang Prefecture in a stream of light.

 331 Congratulations from Everywhere

    Chapter 331: Congratulations from Everywhere


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Yi Xiao was drawing in the tea room, but her mind was preoccupied with other thoughts.


    "I wonder what urgent matter it was for Ancestral Master Zhang to suddenly summon Brother Yun to South Sea Prefecture." Yi Xiao pined for her husband.


    Sou!


    A stream of light appeared on the distant horizon before charging right into Qin Manor.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao immediately put down her brush and came out of the tea room to welcome him. It had stopped snowing but the ground was still covered with a thick layer of snow.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun walked over beaming. He left footsteps in the white snow as he came to her and said, "I have great news for you."


    "Great news? What great news could come from Ancestral Master Zhang''s summons?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    Qin Yun was taken aback as he said immediately, "No, Ancestral Master Zhang''s summoned me to help with a terrible thing! Well, it started with¡­"


    The couple went to the tea room and he explained the whole battle with the mysterious fiendish demon.


    "So that''s what happened." Yi Xiao was enlightened. Following that, she asked, "Then, what is the great news? Is it that you averted the disaster?"


    "No, no." Qin Yun smiled. "After I averted the disaster, His Majesty gave Hong Lingtong and me the title of marquis. That''s actually not important. What''s important that he also gave me a mystic art. This mystic art is the great news."


    "Mystic art?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "His Majesty has cultivated to the Skygod realm," explained Qin Yun. "However, after he began his reign over the world, he has taken many concubines who had numerous children. If you think about it, for a Skygod like him to have children¡­ it should be tens, if not a hundred times, harder than a Connate Golden Core sword immortal like me. But in fact, His Majesty has a bunch of children."


    Yi Xiao nodded immediately.


    She made an immediate guess.


    "And it''s because His Majesty knows a mystic art," said Qin Yun with a smile. "His Majesty said that fewer than five people in this world know of this mystic art, but he bestowed it upon me. I have read it and learned it! Thanks to this mystic art, we will soon have a child."


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded. She was long anxious about their lack of children despite being married for more than a decade.


    "Is there any cost to casting the mystic art?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "It cannot be cast a second time within ten years after the first," said Qin Yun. "That way, it doesn''t overburden the body. If it is cast repeatedly, it will put a huge burden on the body and drastically reduce a person''s lifespan."


    Yi Xiao was enlightened.


    "Don''t worry. We will definitely succeed the first time we cast it." Qin Yun smiled.


    ¡­


    That night, the couple attempted it. The feeling of casting the mystic art was indeed unprecedented. The next day, Qin Yun''s face was slightly pale. Thankfully, he could easily recover with time. As long as he did not cast it again within ten years, it did not do any harm to his body.


    The couple thus began to await the good news of a pregnancy.


    Of course, Qin Yun also made a trip to the East Sea Dragon Palace during this period.


    He handed over the Essence Soul realm Water race corpses and dragon corpses he obtained from the Ancient Skydragon Palace to the East Sea Dragon Palace. The East Sea''s Skydragon was very grateful! After the dragon corpses were interred in a Dragon Tomb, the rest of the Water race corpses were buried properly.


    ******


    On the nineteenth day of the new year, the imperial government decreed that Qin Yun would be made Serene Marquis with his fief being Serene Province. Hong Lingtong was made Heightened Marquis with his fief being Heightened Province.


    Under normal circumstances, a marquis was named after their fief.


    A county with two marquises!


    The news immediately caused a stir in Grand Dominance County. Soon, it spread throughout the world, causing a furor.


    It was very rare for marquis titles to be bestowed. Furthermore, two marquises were made in the same county together? What was more shocking was that Hong Lingtong had been made one too. After all, Qin Yun was recognized as the best sword immortal in the world. In addition, he had done many great meritorious deeds. As for Hong Lingtong, he had kept a low profile and had nothing to show for his work. Even his identity as a reincarnated immortal and the whole ordeal with the World Entrance at South Sea Prefecture was not known to most Connate Golden Core cultivators.


    After the announcement, Qin Manor and Hong Manor made an agreement.


    Qin Manor would have its celebratory banquet on the twenty-second while Hong Manor would have it on the twenty-fifth. Being conferred the title of marquis deserved a joyous celebration!


    "Arrival of Scenic Mountain Sect''s Grand Elder Immortal Winterdawn!"


    Scenic Mountain Sect''s only Essence Soul expert, Immortal Winterdawn, brought with him an entourage that included Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Arrival of Magistress Mountain''s Matron Gu!"


    A wizened old woman came with Chen Shuang.


    "Arrival of Sand Sect''s Blackheaven Grand Protector!"


    "Arrival of Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Elder Baiqing!"


    "Arrival of Skydemon Palace''s Patriarch Myriad Demon!"


    "Arrival of Nine Caves Water Abode''s Lord Nine Caves!"


    "Arrival of North Sea Dragon King!"


    "Arrival of East Sea Dragon King!"


    ¡­


    One figure after another arrived on clouds. Truly mighty powerhouses from all over the world came to give their well-wishes. After all, Qin Yun, who had at least five hundred years to live, was not even fifty years old but his strength was already at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm! Who could say for certain how strong he would eventually become? In addition, with his status as a mortal sword immortal and an aegis of Merit Glow protecting him, who would truly dare to offend him? Which faction wouldn''t want to be on his good side?


    They naturally came to befriend him.


    Furthermore, even if Qin Yun failed to condense an Essence Soul in the future, he might be thought highly of by a mighty powerhouse if his realm reached amazing heights. That mighty powerhouse could at least help Qin Yun reincarnate and become a reincarnated immortal.


    Nothing was certain! After all, he was the most impressive sword immortal in history. And his story was only beginning.


    "Wow, so many immortals and Godfiends are here?"


    "Even the imperial government has sent three Godfiends?"


    Even top sects like the Yue Chapter, Sword Tower, Black Turtle Palace, and Wood Dragon Manor did not have existences at the Essence Soul realm. All of them kept a low profile.


    After all, the three Daoist sacred lands, the imperial government, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, Skydemon Palace, Four Seas Dragon Palace, and even a few itinerant Essence Soul experts had come to congratulate Qin Yun! There was also no lack of hegemon existences like Patriarch Zhu, Patriarch Yi, Patriarch Myriad Demon, and Lord Nine Caves. They were only second to Skygods and Skyimmortals like Human Emperor and Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "All the powerhouses of the cultivation world, gathered in one place."


    "Just a title conferment has gathered so many important figures."


    "What did Sword Immortal Qin do that even the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Patriarch Zhu came?"


    Many Connate Golden Core cultivators were astounded.


    Existences that they had difficulty meeting even once their entire lives had appeared in large numbers that day.


    "Too many people came." As the host, Qin Yun was busily receiving the guests that came from all over the world.


    "Ninth Hong, Eighth Zhu, chat amongst yourselves for the moment. I can''t entertain you now," said Qin Yun when he heard the announcement of Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery''s Arhat Fiend Vanquisher. He rushed to receive the new guest.


    "Haha, Brother Qin Yun, you look so busy like you might take off into the sky anytime," teased Hong Lingtong.


    "Are you teasing me? You''ll be the one receiving guests in another three days," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, yes, yes. Daoist Liu, you will be busy soon. As for me, I''ll be the most carefree," said Eighth Zhu leisurely.


    "We are both marquises. You don''t have any noble title," said Hong Lingtong deliberately.


    "My patriarch has been conferred with kingship," said Eighth Zhu as he ate a fruit.


    Both of them pouted.


    Qin Yun chuckled as he left them to their squabble. He immediately went out to receive Arhat Fiend Vanquisher from Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery.


    This was because they had a common enemy¡ªthe Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons!


    Therefore, the world''s cultivators were rather united. The humans, Four Seas Dragon race, and the Skydemon Palace all had good relationships. Although there were minor conflicts occasionally, all of them appeared very friendly and genial at Qin Yun''s celebration.


    ¡­


    After the two celebrations at Qin Manor and Hong Manor, peace gradually returned to Grand Dominance County.


    On the thirtieth day of the month, Qin Yun was accompanying Yi Xiao as they strolled by the side of the mirror lake.


    "They are finally all gone. The past few days were really hectic. That Patriarch Myriad Demon only left today. Despite being a demon, he was extremely interested in sword arts," said Yi Xiao exasperatedly. Some of the fellow Daoists that had visited had stayed for many days but as the new year approached, all of them began to leave. Patriarch Myriad Demon was the last to leave.


    "Patriarch Myriad Demon enjoys an extremely high status in Skydemon Palace. I wouldn''t dare slight him in any way. Thankfully, this busy period is finally over for us," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded.


    The couple strolled and enjoyed the silence.


    Suddenly, Yi Xiao frowned.


    A sudden pain struck her before she could take another two steps but eventually stopped. She could not help but hold her abdomen.


    "What happened?" Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    "My tummy hurts a little." Yi Xiao''s face began to turn pale as cold sweat seeped out of her forehead.


    "What''s happening? Xiaoxiao, you are a Connate Golden Core cultivator. How can your tummy hurt?" Qin Yun panicked. At their realm, they had immense control over their bodies. Such a thing was almost impossible.


    "I¡­ I¡­" Yi Xiao held her tummy as her body trembled. Her skin flushed red as the surrounding temperatures rose rapidly. The air around her even distorted to the point that the water in the nearby lake began to boil.

 332 The Dragon races Origins

    Chapter 332: The Dragon race''s Origins


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Even Qin Yun felt the scorching energy inundate him. The high temperatures caused him to gather his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers on his body''s surface so as to withstand it.


    "Why is it so hot?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    The withered grass at his feet even ignited. The lake water just three feet from Yi Xiao was boiling.


    "Xiaoxiao! Xiaoxiao!" Qin Yun panicked. He quickly reached out to touch his wife''s wrist, sending a wisp of Connate Golden Core Dharmic powers into her.


    "Bam!"


    Yi Xiao''s body was like a burning furnace. Her terrifying Dharmic powers even managed to burn away Qin Yun''s purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers.


    "Even my Dharmic powers have been repressed?" Qin Yun found it unbelievable. His Dharmic powers had failed to penetrate her body.


    "Ah!"


    Yi Xiao cried out softly in pain as she looked at Qin Yun. He could see the pain in her eyes. "Brother Yun, I''m in so much pain. It''s so painful. Not only does my tummy hurt, my entire body hurts. It''s so painful!" Her originally crystalline skin was now flushed red as heat waves endlessly surged out. Her entire body was like an infinitely hot furnace.


    "Xiaoxiao, what''s going on? Why did this happen? Are you poisoned or something?" Qin Yun was quite a knowledgeable person but he still had no idea what was happening to his wife.


    "I don''t know. I don''t know," Yi Xiao said with great difficulty. Her eyes were already red.


    Following that, grinding sounds were heard as white dragon scales appeared on Yi Xiao''s face. More and more scales were covering her. The exposed backs of her palms were also sprouting dragon scales.


    "Dragon scales?" Qin Yun was alarmed when he saw that. "Dragon scales! Yi Xiao''s mother, Ao Xue, is a pure-blooded dragon. This has something to do with the Dragon race?"


    "When pure-blooded dragons have children with humans, their children will have a little dragon blood in them. If the dragon blood represses the human blood, they will, at the latest, be able to manifest as a flood dragon by eighteen." These thoughts surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind. "Yi Xiao is in her thirties this year. Isn''t it too late for her to transform into a flood dragon!? Furthermore, she''s a Connate Golden Core cultivator. She even cultivates in the extremely overbearing Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma! It''s impossible for dragon blood to repress the blood of a Connate Golden Core cultivator."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    It was completely impossible. He had never heard of such an instance.


    Qin Yun isolated the area with his Dao domain, preventing others in the manor from discovering the situation.


    "Ah!"


    Suddenly, from Yi Xiao''s hindquarters, a dragon tail covered in snow-white scales grew out. As she continued her painful grunts, Yi Xiao transformed entirely. She involuntarily transformed into a dragon with snow-white scales. However, the dragon was only about a hundred feet long. She continued writhing in pain even as a dragon.


    "Roar!" Yi Xiao let out a painful dragon roar. Clouds even gathered in the sky as large amounts of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies seeped into Yi Xiao''s body.


    "Dragon Transformation?" Despite seeing his wife in such great pain, to the point of her transforming into a dragon, Qin Yun was unable to help her no matter how much he fretted. His anxiousness compelled him to directly contact the East Sea''s Skydragon.


    A few days ago, he had given the Water race demon corpses he had obtained from the Ancient Skydragon Palace to the East Sea Dragon Palace so that they could be properly buried. He had also met the East Sea Skydragon.


    Buzz.


    Through the Inspect Heavenly Token, the phantom of a black-haired male with dragon horns appeared. He looked rather handsome.


    He was the East Sea Skydragon!


    As the supreme leader of the Four Seas'' Dragon race, his strength was unfathomable.


    "Senior Skydragon, my wife, Yi Xiao is a Connate Golden Core cultivator. Her mother is from the West Sea Dragon race. Her father is human. However, she suddenly experienced great pain and then transformed into a dragon today," said Qin Yun anxiously. He also projected Yi Xiao''s appearance into the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    When the East Sea Skydragon looked over, his expression changed. "Qin Yun, try to help your wife bear with it. She must use all her strength. I''ll be right over. If you have a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill, give it to her to alleviate the pain temporarily."


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun took out a bottle of pills the moment he heard that. Under the Dao domain''s control, a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill flew out. "Xiaoxiao, eat this Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill."


    Although Yi Xiao was in great pain, she still maintained her sense of reason. She might have transformed into a dragon, but she was still able to open her mouth and consume the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill.


    Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills could be used by all mortals and immortals. It replenished the energy and vital essence of all kinds of bodies! For instance, those that failed a forced attempt to condense an Essence Soul would suffer damage to their soul. They could treat themselves using Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills. Powerful Essence Soul immortals would typically have a few Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills on them at all times.


    Although eating one Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill was equivalent to spending one second-grade Dharma treasure, it was still very worth it.


    A few days ago, Qin Yun had traded with Ancestral Master Zhang and had bought three bottles. The price was already equivalent to that of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    "Whoosh."


    After Yi Xiao consumed the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill, the sudden changes to her body promptly drew from the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill''s essence instead of her own energy. Yi Xiao felt a lot better and was able to regain a bit of control over her body. She transformed back into her human form.


    Although she was human again, the dragon horns on her head remained. Some of the dragon scales on her face were also still there.


    "Brother Yun, what happened to me?" Yi Xiao was puzzled. "I''ve long since cultivated to the Connate Golden Core realm. Why would I transform into a dragon?"


    "I do not know either. The East Sea Skydragon probably knows. He''s on his way here now," said Qin Yun. With that thought, he immediately said, "Let me ask Ancestral Master Zhang too."


    His wife was a member of the Yi family, and a disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Qin Yun was worried that the East Sea Skydragon had been perfunctory with him. It was best to ask Ancestral Master Zhang as well.


    Hum!


    Through the Inspect Heavenly Token, he contacted Ancestral Master Zhang who was still stationed at South Sea Prefecture''s Mt. Torturous.


    "Qin Yun, what''s the matter?" Ancestral Master Zhang grinned as he looked over. When he saw the dragon horns growing from Yi Xiao''s head and snow-white dragon scales on her face, he could not help but ask, "Yi Xiao, what''s this¡­"


    "Senior Zhang, just a moment ago, Xiaoxiao suffered uncontrollable pain. The powers in her body started boiling. Even my purplish-gold Golden Core Dharmic powers could not repress it. She even fully transformed into a snow-white dragon. I had no choice but to ask Senior East Sea Skydragon. He told me to feed Yi Xiao a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill. Now, she''s a little better and Senior Skydragon is rushing here," explained Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "I''m held up in South Sea Prefecture, so I won''t be able to go there. Let''s do this. I''ll get Yi Yan to rush over. Yi Xiao is one of his descendants after all."


    "What happened to Xiaoxiao?" Qin Yun was puzzled. Yi Xiao also looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Qin Yun," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Demons are mostly beings that originated from this world. However, the Dragon race comes from an Other Realm."


    "An Other Realm?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were astonished.


    Qin Yun recalled the first world in his dream of a hundred years. "That world was similar to an ancient period. It just had humans and Connate Godfiends that battled with the fiendish demons and fiendcelestials. I did not encounter any dragons."


    "Exactly." Ancestral Master Zhang explained, "The dragons are a very special race! All dragons, from every world, and even the courts of the Heavenly world of legend, can trace their lineage to the Ancestral Dragon. The Ancestral Dragon had nine sons. Later on, the dragons procreated generation after generation. The dragons could cultivate too, so they thrived. They sent branches of the dragon ancestral tree out, and they occupied the seas of the various worlds!"


    "As the Dragon race has an extremely strong heritage, nearly all the worlds that have a sea are likely occupied by the Dragon race," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were astonished when they heard that.


    All the worlds, and even the courts of the Heavenly world? The Dragon race stemmed from the Ancestral Dragon?


    Nearly every world with a sea was occupied by the Dragon race?


    "The Dragon race sure has an impressive background," exclaimed Qin Yun in awe.


    They also had a mighty backer.


    The Dragon race was related to an Other Realm! That''s right, the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s Skydragon''s senior brother was from an Other Realm!


    "The most primordial branches of the Dragon race had extremely powerful bloodlines," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "For example, the Ancestral Dragon had nine sons. All of them were different. Each one of the nine was born into the Skydragon realm. Furthermore, they were the most terrifying existences at the Skydragon realm. The stronger members of the nine sons'' offspring were born as Skydragons while the weaker ones were born at the third Firmament True Dragon realm. The children a True Dragon bears would mostly be ordinary mortal dragons. Mortal dragons are forbidden from having mixed children. But in fact, Skydragons and the Ancestral Dragon are not held to this rule."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were enlightened.


    "This is for the ordinary bloodline heritage. But in fact, the Ancestral Dragon''s descendants can proliferate for generations. Occasionally, there will be a bloodline awakening, the awakening of a particular ancestor''s bloodline. For example, one can awaken a Skydragon''s bloodline, or even any of the bloodlines of the Ancestral Dragon''s nine sons," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "For Yi Xiao to transform into a dragon at this time, to the point of repressing Connate Golden Core Dharmic powers, it looks like her bloodline is awakening¡­ into that of a True Dragon! Of course, there is a tiny chance that she will awaken to become a Skydragon."


    "Skydragon?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. The Dragon race was simply ridiculous. One could soar in one step to become a Skydragon. Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao.


    "I''m just saying it might happen," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Bloodline awakenings are rare to begin with. A Skydragon awakening is probably the rarest across the various worlds. A Skydragon''s children are typically only True Dragons."

 333 Price

    Chapter 333: Price


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao listened carefully.


    "Ancestral Master," asked Yi Xiao immediately. "How long does the awakening take?"


    "It depends on what realm you are awakening to," answered Ancestral Master Zhang. "For example, if you were to truly awaken to become a Skydragon, a mortal has to first undergo a blood conversion to awaken into a Skydragon. The bloodline in your body will be converted bit by bit. Your tendons, bones, skin, and flesh and even your vital makeup will be converted. A Skydragon has massive strength, and that''s saying nothing of its Essence Soul! This conversion process will naturally be very long! According to what I know, even the birth of a Skydragon will result in a pregnancy of a hundred years! If you are truly meant to be a Skydragon, it will take a hundred years even if you were allowed to absorb the energy contained within the Dragon race''s Dragon Pool freely."


    "Of course, if you were to awaken as a True Dragon, it will be much faster."


    "If one is given free reign to absorb the Dragon Pool''s energy, a year would be enough to fully convert one to the first Firmament True Dragon realm. It would take three years to get to the second Firmament True Dragon realm. As for the third Firmament True Dragon realm, it will take ten years," elaborated Ancestral Master Zhang. "And this only works on the premise that one is given free reign to absorb the Dragon Pool''s energy. Without it, the awakening process would be excruciatingly painful and the time it takes to awaken will be even longer."


    "The awakening requires the absorption of all kinds of energy. Yi Xiao, the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill you consumed was enough to provide you with the energy needed for your transformation. However, although a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill is miraculous, the amount of energy it contains is quite insufficient," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "A Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill can at most meet the energy requirement for a day''s transformation. Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills are first-grade spirit pills that can heal a soul. Using one to provide energy for a body''s transformation is quite a waste."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were enlightened.


    "A Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill a day would mean more than three hundred a year," said Qin Yun chuckling. "We won''t be able to buy that much even if we wanted to."


    "No one is that extravagant," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The Dragon Palace''s Dragon Pool contains all the various energies required for a dragon''s transformation. It''s most suited for dragons. For instance, newborn dragons have a chance to stay in there for more than a hundred days! The amount they absorb will also be far less than what Yi Xiao''s bloodline awakening will require. Therefore, if Yi Xiao has to stay in the Dragon Pool for a prolonged period of time, the East Sea''s Skydragon will likely ask for something quite big in return."


    "Something big?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes, it''s because the combined energy contained in the four Dragon Pools of the Four Seas'' Dragon race will probably be insufficient to awaken a Skydragon," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Dragon Pools are mainly prepared for the newborn dragons of a generation. Your awakening will absorb too much of their energy, so the East Sea Skydragon will naturally raise certain conditions."


    "The four Dragon Pools'' combined energy is insufficient for a Skydragon?" Qin Yun mumbled inwardly.


    "Don''t worry. If this is really the birth of a new Skydragon, the Dragon race will contact the Other Realm. There will definitely be sufficient Dragon Pool energy prepared for Yi Xiao," assured Ancestral Master Zhang. "There is no need for you to doubt the Dragon race''s heritage."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The dragons in his world were but one of many branches scattered throughout the numerous worlds.


    "Alright, Yi Yan will be there in a while. With him there, the both of you will not get fleeced," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    ¡­


    After chatting with Ancestral Master Zhang for a while, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao gained a better understanding of the situation.


    Very soon.


    Sou!


    A black-haired male dragon descended onto the mirror lake''s surface. He reached the bank in two steps. He smiled at Yi Xiao, who was now sporting a pair of dragon horns. There were also snow-white dragon scales on her face and hands. He sensed Yi Xiao''s surging vitality. It was even stronger than Qin Yun who had cultivated a Connate purplish-gold Golden Core.


    "Greetings, Senior Skydragon." Qin Yun bowed. Yi Xiao immediately bowed as well.


    "It''s indeed a bloodline awakening." The East Sea Skydragon nodded. "Do the two of you know about my Dragon race''s bloodline awakening? It is the awakening of a particular ancestor''s powers."


    "We just had Ancestral Master Zhang explain it to us," explained Qin Yun.


    "There will be no mistake if Brother Zhang is the one doing the explaining." East Sea Skydragon nodded. "The Dragon Transformation is painful. Becoming a True Dragon, or even a Skydragon, in one step feels like disembowelment. The pain is excruciating and therefore intolerable."


    Yi Xiao could not help but nod.


    It was already very painful. Even with her level of endurance, she had nearly gone mad.


    "If you were in a Dragon Pool, the bloodline awakening would not result in such pain. Furthermore, it will be much faster," said East Sea Skydragon. "I have already informed Elder Ao Qiong from the West Sea to come. This matter needs to be discussed in detail with her. After all, Yi Xiao can be considered a member of the West Sea lineage."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao nodded.


    ¡­


    Patriarch Yi was the first to arrive since he was closer. Some time after, Elder Ao Qiong from the distant West Sea arrived.


    "Patriarch." Elder Ao Qiong was a wizened female Elder. She was also the strongest Elder in the West Sea. She was currently at the third Firmament True Dragon realm. She immediately bowed when she saw the East Sea Skydragon.


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Patriarch Yi did not find that surprising.


    They also knew¡­that the Four Seas'' Dragon race was one big family! And the East Sea Dragon race was the progenitor.


    The East Sea Skydragon was the supreme leader of the entire Dragon race.


    "Ao Qiong," said East Sea Skydragon with a smile. "I''ve already informed you of the situation. Yi Xiao is a member of your West Sea lineage. According to the rules, she is to use your West Sea''s Dragon Pool."


    "Yes." Elder Ao Qiong smiled at Yi Xiao. "Yi Xiao, I''m naturally agreeable to you using my West Sea''s Dragon Pool. However, there is something that needs to be made clear! The Four Seas'' Dragon race have their respective sense of belonging and they have to obey the Dragon race''s rules. As for you Yi Xiao¡­ you are the child of Ao Xue and a human. At Brother Yi Yan''s request, you were never under the jurisdiction of my Dragon race."


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Now, you will be using the West Sea Dragon Pool to become a True Dragon at the very least," said Elder Ao Qiong. "In that case, you need to shoulder some of the responsibilities of the Dragon race."


    "Responsibilities of the Dragon race?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    Qin Yun and Patriarch Yi had a change in expression.


    "Each of the Four Seas'' Dragon is responsible for suppressing one of the four great Sea Eyes," said Elder Ao Qiong. "The West Sea Dragon race suppresses the West Sea Sea Eye! This is also the reason why most of the West Sea dragons do not leave our home too often."


    "A Sea Eye is a World Entrance." Qin Yun explained to Yi Xiao.


    "My West Sea''s Dragon Pool has been drained for a long time. The energy within the Dragon Pool will probably only be enough for five years when it comes to you," said Elder Ao Qiong. "Even so, the value of this is above that of a Numinous treasure! It wouldn''t make sense to just give it away without expecting you to shoulder responsibility in return, right?"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    "The Dragon Pool''s energy is indeed precious." Patriarch Yi agreed with a nod.


    Using the Dragon Pool was indeed much cheaper than consuming Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills.


    But over time¡­ the cost was still astounding!


    "Three years of Dragon Pool absorption is equivalent to an ordinary Numinous treasure," said East Sea Skydragon. "Every year''s worth of absorption will require Yi Xiao to suppress the Sea Eye for ten thousand years. Don''t worry. She does not need to be there all the time. There will be shifts. Furthermore, she will not be the only dragon in charge of the suppression."


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun and said with a voice transmission, "Brother Yun, what they say makes sense. The energy accumulated in the Dragon Pool by the West Sea Dragon race over such a long period of time is only enough for five years. I might use it all up at once¡­ I do need to give something in return."


    "Senior Skydragon, Elder Ao Qiong," said Qin Yun with a smile. "What if my wife didn''t need to give something in return for absorbing the Dragon Pool''s energy? What if I made payment using Skydragon Blood Crystals?"


    "Skydragon Blood Crystals?" East Sea Skydragon''s and Elder Ao Qiong''s eyes lit up.


    The East Sea Skydragon naturally had Skydragon Blood Crystals but they were his vital core! It was impossible for him to produce them.


    Skydragon Blood Crystals had many uses for True Dragons.


    As for suppressing the Sea Eye?


    Although it was an important task, the Four Seas had a large number of True Dragon realm Elders. They did not suffer for lack of a single Yi Xiao.


    The East Sea Skydragon immediately discussed the matter with Elder Ao Qiong through a voice transmission.


    "That Qin Yun has been to the Ancient Skydragon Palace. He must have obtained a large number of Skydragon Blood Crystals. Should we charge him three Skydragon Blood Crystals a year?" said Elder Ao Qiong through a voice transmission.


    "Yi Yan is here too. He represents Brother Zhang. We can''t attempt to fleece them outright. Let''s set it at two Skydragon Blood Crystals a year," decided East Sea Skydragon.


    After both of them made the decision, Elder Ao Qiong said with a smile, "Alright, you can use Skydragon Blood Crystals too! It will cost two Skydragon Blood Crystals per year for Yi Xiao''s absorption of the Dragon Pool."


    Qin Yun looked at Patriarch Yi who nodded gently.


    It was reasonable. The Dragon race was not going overboard!


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. He took out a bottle from his Cosmic Bag and pulled out a stopper. Immediately, two blood-colored crystals flew out. "Here are two, payment for the first year."


    "You can always make payment after the year ends. We from the Dragon race believe you are a man of your word, Sword Immortal Qin." Despite saying so, Elder Ao Qiong continued smiling with narrowed eyes. Ordinary Dharma treasures were limited in their ability to aid the Dragon race but Skydragon Blood Crystals were extremely useful.


    ¡­


    With that, both sides ended their negotiations.


    As the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills could only provide relief for a day, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao followed Elder Ao Qiong to the West Sea that day.


    West Sea Dragon Palace, Dragon Pool.


    The Dragon Pool was a place of great importance. Typically, only newborn dragons were sent there.


    "Whoosh."


    Yi Xiao landed in a gigantic pool. It had shimmering light swirling in it. Qin Yun smiled as he watched from the side. The West Sea Dragon King was even coming to accompany them from not far away.


    "Brother Yun," said Yi Xiao through a voice transmission. "I''m curious. I did not undergo a bloodline awakening all these years. Why would it suddenly awaken now? Could it be related to the mystic art that His Majesty gave you?"


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    The mystic art drained a portion of his vital strength. Typically, one needed ten years to recover it! If he cast it repeatedly in a short period of time, his lifespan would decrease drastically.


    "After I cast the mystic art, it didn''t take long for your bloodline to awaken," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission. "Perhaps it is somewhat related."

 334 Joyous Matters

    Chapter 334: Joyous Matters


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Yes." Yi Xiao nodded, her eyes carrying a look of anticipation. "Regardless, according to what you said, one will definitely have children once that mystic art is cast."


    "Yes, definitely. It was specifically described in the mystic art. It can''t be wrong." Qin Yun nodded.


    "It looks like our child will be born in the West Sea Dragon Palace." Yi Xiao laughed.


    Qin Yun looked around. There were several buildings just hundreds of feet beyond the Dragon Pool.


    "Your Majesty." Qin Yun looked at the distant West Sea Dragon King who had accompanied them and asked, "No one is currently staying in these residences, right?"


    West Sea Dragon King walked over and smiled as he looked at the buildings. He said with a nod, "They are empty. Whenever we have newborn dragons, they are placed in the Dragon Pool for a hundred days. During this period, adult dragons will stay here to take care of the newborn dragons."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Xiaoxiao, just by staying here, you should be able to absorb the Dragon Pool''s energy. There''s no need for you to be constantly inside the Dragon Pool."


    "That is true." Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    ¡­


    The couple chatted for a long while until it was finally time to part.


    "Your Majesty, can I really only come next month?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, this is sacred ground to my Dragon race," said West Sea Dragon King with a nod. "There are many places of such importance, like the Dragon Pool, Dragon Woods, and Dragon Tomb. It is rare for most adult dragons to enter these places even a few times in their lives. It was only because permission was given by Patriarch and Elder Ao Qiong, as well as the important matter of Yi Xiao having a blood awakening, that we made an exception, permitting you to enter once a month. Each visit can be at most two hours, and every entry requires a dragon Elder to accompany you."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Besides, Yi Xiao can still communicate with you," said West Sea Dragon King with a smile. "Sword Immortal Qin, there''s no hurry. Even if Yi Xiao were to awaken in one go to the third Firmament True Dragon realm, it would only take ten years."


    Ten years was not a very long time to a Connate Golden Core cultivator with a five-hundred-year lifespan.


    It was even shorter for the Dragon race, who had even longer lifespans.


    Mortal dragons had very long lifespans. As for True Dragon realm Elders, their lifespans were even more ridiculous.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Xiaoxiao, I''ll be leaving now," said Qin Yun. "If there''s anything you need, send me a message."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "Remember to visit me every month."


    "Definitely." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    Following that, West Sea Dragon King personally walked Qin Yun out.


    The forbidden ground was also guarded by dragons.


    "In the future, Sword Immortal Qin will be coming here once every month." Dragon King instructed the two guards.


    "Yes," answered the two dragons immediately. They watched as Dragon King and Qin Yun left.


    "A human like him is actually allowed to enter our West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground once a month?" The two guards could not help but grumble.


    "That''s right. Even us from the Dragon race require the Dragon King''s and Elder Ao Qiong''s permission for entry."


    "Furthermore, His Majesty is so polite with him? Isn''t he just a mortal human?"


    The two discussed how they found things somewhat unfair.


    A gray-robed dragon Elder walked out.


    "Shut up," rebuked the gray-robed Elder.


    "Elder." The two guards were shocked.


    "Sword Immortal Qin''s strength is in no way inferior to Elder Ao Qiong''s. Most importantly, he has cultivated for less than fifty years. Think about what realm he could reach in the remaining years of his five-hundred-year lifespan?" The gray-robed Elder scoffed. The two guards were shuddering in fear. Was the mortal sword immortal that terrifying?


    "So remember, never slight him," said the gray-robed Elder.


    ******


    Although the couple had to be temporarily separated, they did not mind it too much.


    Cultivators would typically enter seclusion for months, even years.


    Now, they could still meet every month and communicate at any time. There was nothing to be worried about. Furthermore, Yi Xiao would reach the True Dragon realm after her bloodline awakening. Qin Yun felt happy for his wife. It meant that she could have eternal life! Eternal life was the aim of countless cultivators. As a core disciple of the Divine Firmament Chapter, Yi Xiao had excellent talent and had reached the Connate Golden Core realm at a young age.


    But by simply cultivating, according to her cultivation speed, the chances of her condensing an Essence Soul were just too low.


    Now, with her bloodline awakening, she could enter straight into the True Dragon realm. There was even a sliver of chance of her awakening to become a Skydragon!


    "Xiaoxiao has stepped onto the path of immortality. I shouldn''t slack off either. I must create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage." Qin Yun began focusing on cultivation during the days that followed.


    His wife would have an eternal life once she stepped into the True Dragon realm.


    As for him, he would be reduced to dust after five hundred years?


    Qin Yun naturally found it unacceptable. He wanted to proceed down the path of cultivation with his wife. Furthermore, he wanted to visit the two worlds he had been to during his dream of a hundred years. Most of all, he looked forward to meeting his son Meng Huan one day.


    "There''s no hurry in condensing an Essence Soul."


    "The higher one''s realm is, the higher the chances of creating a Dharmic formulation are."


    A beard lathered is half shaved.


    "I still have a long life ahead of me. I''ll focus on cultivating for the next three hundred years. The higher my realm, the better. Furthermore, I''ll begin making preparations during these three hundred years. I''ll seek out various Essence Soul Dharmic formulation from various factions. Once I have fully prepared, I can attempt to create my Essence Soul Dharmic formulation in three hundred years." Qin Yun drew up his plans.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun either studied the stone wall palm arts or the Green Leaf Flying Sword. The Green Leaf Flying Sword was a transcendent-grade flying sword that Qin Yun bought from Ancestral Master Zhang. From it, he could sense Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s Sword Dao! Of course, he had another purpose for it. It could be left in Qin Manor as a guardian flying sword.


    With Qin Yun''s strength, he could still command the flying sword to attack enemies within fifteen thousand kilometers!


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the side of the mirror lake.


    Two flying swords were flying above the mirror lake like twittering birds that were pursuing each other. One was like the hazy rain and the other was a stream of light that resembled a green leaf.


    "Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s realm should have been similar to mine," marveled Qin Yun. "His Sword Dao was also truly unique."


    "Legend has it that Sword Immortal Green Leaf enjoyed alcohol. He was a sword immortal that indulged in alcohol, making his Sword Dao even more unrestrained and adherent to his intent."


    "As for my Sword Dao, it has formed a Heaven and Earth of its own. It pursues perfection and seeks to contain everything."


    The two of them pursued different things.


    Sword Immortal Green Leaf pursued that instantaneous moment of unbridlement! Therefore, his Sword Dao was unique and independent. It gave off the vibe of being an unconventional gambit, like a sword that moved with a side stroke.


    However, Qin Yun pursued perfection. His Sword Dao formed a Heaven and Earth that contained everything. Everything of Heaven, Earth, Man was contained! He pursued the pinnacle of Sword Dao.


    "Truly amazing," mumbled Qin Yun. "This level of whimsy is something my Sword Dao lacks."


    An idea flashed in Qin Yun''s head.


    "Yes, a world in a grain of sand."


    "If a world can become a piece of sand, my Sword Dao that forms a Heaven and Earth can also transform into an unrestrained beam for an instant."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s complete lack of restraint gave Qin Yun many ideas.


    He began contemplating and inferring¡­


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was awed by certain aspects of Sword Immortal Green Leaf but also felt that there were flaws in other areas. Sword Immortal Green Leaf paid too much attention to being unrestrained. He was too unconventional! The Dao could be split into two opposing sides¡ªYin and Yang. If one veered too much to one side, their Dao would naturally become unconventional. However, there was a saying: ''Extreme Yin gives birth to Yang, extreme Yang gives birth to Yin.'' Even if one took an unconventional path, it was still possible to reach ultimate perfection by going down an extreme path.


    Unfortunately, Sword Immortal Green Leaf only lived for five hundred years. He did not manage to take his Dao to the highest extreme!


    Qin Yun was impressed by him and drew upon his most dazzling aspects. However, it did not mean that he would take Sword Immortal Green Leaf''s path.


    ******


    Time passed very quickly while he immersed himself in cultivation.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun, who was sitting by the side of the mirror lake, sensed something. He immediately took out his Inspect Heavenly Token and Yi Xiao''s phantom appeared.


    Yi Xiao was eating a fruit as she looked at Qin Yun with a faint smile. "My dear Sword Immortal Qin, have you forgotten something?"


    "Ah!"


    Qin Yun was taken aback. With a quick count, he realized that it was now the second month since Yi Xiao entered the West Sea Dragon Palace. He immediately said, "I forgot. I was too focused on cultivation and forgot to head to the West Sea to visit you."


    "You agreed to visit me every month," tsked Yi Xiao. "To think you already forgot when it''s only the second month. Furthermore, you don''t message me unless I message you first. The last time we communicated was half a month ago!"


    "I was too immersed in cultivation! I have been sitting by the mirror lake''s bank for half a month." Qin Yun tried his best to explain. Due to the inspiration he received from the Green Leaf Flying Sword, he was crazily immersed in all sorts of ideas and theories. It was also obvious that no one in Qin Manor would think to disturb him.


    "My wife, my dear wife. It was my fault," said Qin Yun with an obsequious smile.


    "Hmph!" Yi Xiao scoffed twice before she couldn''t help but burst into laughter. She beamed like a blooming flower. "My dear husband, I have joyous news for you."


    "Joyous news?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he immediately had an idea. His heart could not help but race. "Are you¡­"


    Yi Xiao nodded immediately. "I''m pregnant!"


    "You are pregnant?" Qin Yun felt his blood boil as his scalp tingled. He was somewhat in a daze as he could not help but mumble, "I''m going to be a dad? I''m going to be a dad?"

 335 Void Transference

    Chapter 335: Void Transference


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Xiaoxiao, I''ll be there right away." Qin Yun could not contain his excitement as he flew westward as a beam of light.


    More than an hour later, Qin Yun had crossed the entire continent by traveling from the east of the Great Chang empire to the West Sea Dragon Palace.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao was sitting beside the Dragon Pool with her feet immersed in it. She got up to welcome Qin Yun when she saw him arrive.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun hurriedly rushed to his wife. "Quick, take a seat. You must sit."


    There was a smooth boulder to the side. After he sat Yi Xiao on it, Qin Yun stayed by her side. He could not help but caress his wife''s tummy. Of course, there was no baby bump as it was still early.


    "I thought I would be able to sense it after half a month," said Yi Xiao. "I never expected it would be more than a month before I sensed the little life growing in me. From the looks of it, this child of ours will take more than forty weeks of pregnancy."


    "The longer the pregnancy, the more it implies the extraordinariness of our child. Didn''t Ancestral Master Zhang say that? To have a Skydragon, the child will have to stay in the womb for more than a hundred years," said Qin Yun with a smile. "You are having a bloodline awakening as we speak. As for me, I''m a mortal sword immortal that has strength matching the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Our child¡­ will naturally be extraordinary."


    Qin Yun knew very well how magical a bloodline legacy was.


    Not only would physical strength be passed down, even an inkling of the Dao powers could be inherited.


    Therefore, some were born at an extremely high realm. It was entirely because of their parent''s heritage. It was also common for powerful immortals from the courts of the Heavenly world to have children that were born immortal. For instance, the progenitor of the Dragon race, the Ancestral Dragon, had nine sons. All nine of them were at the peak of the Skydragon realm when they were born! This had nothing to do with their cultivation. Their bloodlines contained an inkling of the Dao.


    Under normal circumstances, this bloodline inheritance would weaken with each succeeding generation, eventually being dulled to the point of mortality.


    "I wonder if our child will be born human or dragon," mused Yi Xiao.


    "You are still in the midst of your bloodline awakening. You still have human blood in you. I''m also human. Our child is likely human," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, our child might have a chance of transforming into a dragon one day."


    "Brother Yun, your realm is high and perhaps your bloodline is stronger, fully repressing our child''s dragon bloodline," joked Yi Xiao.


    "Regardless, this child is both of ours." Qin Yun was looking forward to it.


    "Brother Yun, what do you think? Will it be a boy or girl?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I''m happy with either one of them," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun frequently chatted with his wife. Every month, he made sure to visit his wife at the West Sea Dragon Palace.


    Yi Xiao''s pregnancy was indeed very slow as expected. By autumn of the next year, after approximately forty weeks of pregnancy, Yi Xiao''s tummy finally had a tiny bump.


    "Brother Yun, I sensed it. Our child is a girl." Yi Xiao and Qin Yun were sitting by the side of the Dragon Pool. Both of them were rejoicing.


    "Girl?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    A baby girl?


    Yi Xiao was very beautiful and he was quite handsome himself. Their daughter was bound to be gorgeous.


    When his daughter grew up, there would probably be many suitors coming after his daughter.


    He had to watch these suitors carefully!


    "What''s on your mind?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I''m wondering what our daughter will look like when she''s grown up," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Xiaoxiao, you are such a great beauty. I believe our daughter will be quite a budding beauty as well."


    "Listen to this glib tongue of yours." Yi Xiao smiled sweetly.


    "It took you forty weeks to sense that she''s a girl? How long will it take for the delivery to happen?" quipped Qin Yun suddenly.


    "It will probably take three years in total," speculated Yi Xiao.


    "That sure is long," said Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, didn''t you say it yourself? The longer it is, the more extraordinary she will be." Yi Xiao lowered her head as she gently stroked her baby bump. Her eyes were shimmering.


    ******


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    "Yun''er." Qin Liehu and Changlan came to visit Qin Liehu. "Have you been to the West Sea Dragon Palace?"


    Qin Yun put down his brush. "Father, Mother. I just came back."


    "How is Yi Xiao?" Changlan could not help but ask "Is she feeling okay? She must not be lacking any food or drink."


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun felt a little helpless.


    "Yi Xiao has been pregnant for forty weeks. When is the estimated delivery?" asked Changlan. Qin Liehu did not add to the pressing but he was listening by the side.


    "The pregnancy will take about three years, she said. So there''s a little more than two years to go," said Qin Yun.


    "That long?"


    Changlan and Qin Liehu exchanged looks.


    Changlan could not help but say, "Shuyan''s wife got pregnant after Yi Xiao. The child will likely be delivered in early spring next year."


    "They will be faster than us." Qin Yun had nothing to say.


    Hong Lingtong''s daughter had already married his nephew, Shuyan. She became pregnant about three months ago.


    "Also, you have to spend more time with Xiaoxiao. She will be rather lonely all by herself in that West Sea Dragon Palace," advised Changlan.


    "Don''t worry, Mom. I know." Qin Yun could only obediently agree.


    ¡­


    Amid the autumn winds, a purple-robed figure appeared above the West Sea. He was none other than He Qian.


    "Empyrean Lord actually thinks so much of that puny Qin Yun?" He Qian grumbled inwardly. He overlooked the sea beneath him. With a flip of his hand, he produced a black token. Once he activated it, the runic patterns on its surface lit up. Spatial ripples emanated outwards with a hum. He Qian took a step forward and vanished into thin air.


    In the West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground, Yi Xiao was sitting beside the Dragon Pool. She was keeping mental track of the Dao charms that constantly surfaced in her mind during her bloodline awakening.


    At that moment, a spatial ripple appeared beside her and He Qian walked out of it.


    "Oh?" Yi Xiao turned her head abruptly when she sensed him. All she saw was a black rope fly over and instantly wrap around her. Her strength was immediately sealed. She even fell unconscious.


    "Hmph!"


    Grabbing the rope Dharma treasure, He Qian activated the black token in his hand again.


    Spatial ripples emanated.


    He Qian vanished with Yi Xiao as quickly as he arrived.


    "Whoosh." A stream of light flew over and stopped beside the Dragon Pool. It was none other than the West Sea Dragon King! At that moment, one figure after another rushed over. They were the West Sea Dragon Palace''s Elders.


    All of them could tap into the energy in the forbidden ground''s array formation. Of course, the person that held absolute control over it was the West Sea Dragon King.


    "It''s Void Transference!" said Dragon King angrily. "Someone entered the forbidden land of our Dragon Palace using Void Transference, grabbed Yi Xiao, and escaped with Void Transference again."


    "A Void Transference treasure that can teleport both the person and Yi Xiao? Yi Xiao has already reached the True Dragon realm. To teleport with her¡­ the value of that treasure is likely equal to that of a Numinous treasure."


    The Elders present had a sense of foreboding.


    Void Transference¡­


    In the entire world, even people like Ancestral Master Zhang, Patriarch Bai, and Human Emperor were unable to cast Void Transference by themselves. They had to rely on external items! Typically, they were talismans that could only be used once. A treasure that could allow a Skyimmortal to teleport once was worth a Numinous treasure. As Skyimmortals exerted terrifying suppression on the void, teleporting them was a lot more difficult.


    Instead, it was only entities like Yellow-scarved Strongmen that could teleport over short distances.


    There was also Hong Lingtong who previously gave Qin Yun a Stand-in Life Charm. It too could teleport the user five hundred kilometers away. However, those were only used to teleport mortals.


    To teleport someone at the Essence Soul realm? The suppression of the void was too great. The difficulty increased exponentially.


    However, He Qian had managed to do it twice! And so quickly!


    West Sea Dragon King waved his hand as He Qian''s purple-robed figure appeared to his side. "The person that infiltrated our Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground is this mortal fiendish demon. From his appearance, he is that mysterious fiendish demon from the South Sea Prefecture."

 336 This is the Price!

    Chapter 336: This is the Price!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was meeting with Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "I''ve been searching for a Connate Spirit Marrow for a very long time." Qin Yun grinned as he held a jade box.


    "Haha, I heard that you were looking for a Connate Spirit Marrow. I vaguely recalled that our sect had one and indeed, I found it when I searched for it," said Palatial Lord Essence Charm with a smile.


    "Thank you very much, Brother Essence Charm. I''m really grateful," said Qin Yun.


    "You''re welcome. Although I must say, I think I got the better deal by obtaining this array talisman in exchange," remarked Palatial Lord Essence Charm.


    "Alright, I bid you farewell," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    After the two separated, Qin Yun streaked across the sky on his trip to Grand Dominance County.


    As he flew, he looked at the jade box. He could not help but smile happily as he held it. "This Connate Spirit Marrow can be used to build a foundation for my daughter while she''s still in the womb."


    Following that, he happily placed the jade box into a Cosmic Bag.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something, and he flipped his hand to produce the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    A phantom hovered by the side. It was none other than the West Sea Dragon King.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said Dragon King anxiously. "I''m sorry. Yi Xiao was kidnapped by that mysterious fiendish demon while she was inside the Dragon Pool."


    Qin Yun was stunned.


    His mind slipped into a daze instantly.


    "What did you say?" pressed Qin Yun immediately. "Yi Xiao was abducted while she was on your West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden grounds?"


    "That mysterious fiendish demon used a powerful treasure to infiltrate my Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground through Void Transference! Following that, he captured Yi Xiao and teleported away. Our pursuit has been fruitless," said Dragon King.


    "Void Transference twice? Yi Xiao has stepped into the True Dragon realm. He was able to teleport with Yi Xiao?" Qin Yun could not help but add, "Just the cost of teleporting twice is probably worth a Numinous treasure. Who would pay such a huge price just to abduct my wife? West Sea Dragon King, I find what you say hard to believe."


    "The mysterious fiendish demon is the same one from South Sea Prefecture." Dragon King pointed to his side and immediately, his Dharmic powers condensed into He Qian.


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun became more anxious.


    Back then, He Qian had escaped into the World Entrance and retreated into a different world.


    However, Qin Yun, Ancestral Master Zhang, and the rest knew that he was a mortal fiendish demon, as well as having a body that belonged to the Great Chang world, so it would be very easy for him to come back to the Great Chang world.


    However, Qin Yun had never thought of him as a worthy opponent.


    "Why would he do that? Why would he pay such a huge price to abduct my wife?" Qin Yun turned increasingly flustered.


    "We were unable to do a thing either. Elder Ao Qiong is trying to think of a way to chase after them. Furthermore, we have informed the patriarch," said Dragon King.


    "Alright." Qin Yun responded tersely before cutting the transmission. "To the West Sea."


    "He teleported out of the West Sea Dragon Palace. He can''t be that far from it." Qin Yun immediately had that idea as he cast Beam Transformation Art at full speed in the direction of the West Sea.


    Faster!


    Qin Yun put his all into flying. Unknowingly, he went almost thirty percent faster than usual.


    "Senior Zhang, it''s me, Qin Yun." Qin Yun contacted Ancestral Master Zhang through the Inspect Heavenly Token. "Yi Xiao was abducted by that mysterious fiendish demon from the South Sea Prefecture while she was in the West Sea Dragon Palace¡­"


    "Your Majesty."


    Qin Yun contacted Human Emperor next.


    "Senior Skydragon."


    He finally called the East Sea Skydragon! After all, the West Sea Dragon race had likely already reported the matter to the East Sea Skydragon.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sought out Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, and the East Sea Skydragon one after another. As for Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and Patriarch Bai, Qin Yun did not have their transmission marks. Following that, he flew around aimlessly. After a while, he snapped to his senses and contacted Patriarch Yi.


    "Qin Yun, Master has already informed me. I will do my best to help find her." Patriarch Yi consoled Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun next sought out Hong Lingtong.


    "Brother Hong, didn''t you tell me that you are a reincarnated immortal and that your ability to divine the future is unparalleled? Help me find my wife, please," pleaded Qin Yun immediately.


    "His Majesty has already informed me. Brother Qin Yun, I''m investigating the matter now. However, the Heavenly Dao has been obscured. It''s very difficult," answered Hong Lingtong immediately.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun reached the West Sea in less than an hour.


    The West Sea was so vast that Qin Yun had no idea where he was.


    "Why did this happen? Why?" Qin Yun felt his hands get clammy. His heart was ice cold.


    ******


    In a Grotto-heaven in the Boor Ancestral Sect, Sect Master Boor Ancestral and He Qian were standing reverently with a bounded, unconscious Yi Xiao beside them.


    Hum!


    A ripple emanated in the void in front of them, revealing an elder with cascading black hair on the other side.


    "Empyrean Lord."


    He Qian and Sect Master Boor Ancestral were extremely respectful. The person in front of them was the supreme leader of a massive world, the supreme Empyrean Lord.


    "Has she been caught?" The elder looked over through the spatial barriers.


    "Empyrean Lord, this Yi Xiao has reached the True Dragon realm. It''s impossible to send her to our world," said He Qian. If she were a mortal cultivator, sending her to another world was not a difficult task! However, it was near impossible to send a True Dragon. The only way would be to open a World Entrance that was wide enough to let a first Firmament Essence Soul realm pass through.


    "Oh?" The elder knitted his brows slightly. "In that case, set up a Six World Isolation Skyarray in the Boor Ancestral Sect''s Grotto-heaven. Imprison Yi Xiao there and isolate her from the Heavenly Dao''s detection! The fact that she''s alive must not be discovered."


    "Yes." He Qian and Sect Master Boor Ancestral responded reverently.


    "The appearance of two reincarnated immortals is something we couldn''t account for," said the elder with a frown. "I''m guessing that some mighty figure has divined that there will be a huge catastrophe in the Great Chang world. Therefore, a group of reincarnated immortals were sent there!"


    "I have means to deal with reincarnated immortals. It''s Qin Yun I''m worried about! A mortal sword immortal has gained such strength in simply fifty years¡­ Perhaps in two or three centuries, he could possess a Skyimmortal''s strength with a mortal body." The elder frowned. "If that happens, he would be more trouble than ten or even twenty reincarnated immortals. In terms of the level of threat, he is not inferior to the East Sea Skydragon, Great Chang''s Human Emperor, Divine Firmament Ancestral Master, or Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa."


    "The matter with Yi Xiao must be taken very seriously," said the elder indifferently. "Boor Bull, do you have the treasures needed to set up the Six World Isolation Skyarray?"


    "I still lack three Isolation Skyrocks," replied Sect Master Boor Ancestral politely.


    "Alright."


    The elder waved his hand.


    Three rocks that suffused gray auras tore through the void''s obstruction and entered the Grotto-heaven.


    "Set it up quickly," instructed the elder. "Deal with Qin Yun according to plan! After all, it''s too difficult to kill him by force. If we can finish him easily, all the better."


    "Understood," He Qian and Sect Master Boor Ancestral replied respectfully.


    Although the Empyrean Lord was powerful, only two lineages of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons submitted themselves to the Empyrean Lord''s world. Those two lineages only had three peak third Firmament Essence Soul realms! These fiendish demons who obeyed the Other Realm Fiendcelestials were all very selfish. They would never sacrifice themselves to kill Qin Yun¡­ Besides, even if they attacked him, killing Qin Yun was still uncertain. After all, his flying sword art was unyielding when it came to defense.


    Qin Yun was now a mortal sword immortal at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. He also had an aegis of Merit Glow! He was very difficult to destroy.


    Furthermore, Qin Yun would only become harder to deal with over time. In the future, the threat he posed would not be any lesser than that of Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and Skydemon.


    ¡­


    He Qian and Sect Master Boor Ancestral worked together to rapidly set up the array formation.


    Once the Six World Isolation Skyarray was done¡ª


    "Boom!!!"


    The entire array enveloped an area that spanned half a kilometer, with Yi Xiao inside.


    Within the array''s effective radius, the Heavenly Dao was completely isolated.


    At that moment¡ª


    Patriarch Yi, Qin Yun, Ao Xue, and everyone else saw Yi Xiao''s transmission mark vanish from their transmission treasures.


    ******


    Qin Yun was standing above the vast West Sea, momentarily at a loss as to where to go.


    He was holding the Inspect Heavenly Token. He had already sought the help of everyone he could.


    "Brother Hong should be able to divine Xiaoxiao''s location. Should I ask him again? No¡­ if I were to contact him now, I might disturb him. If Brother Hong gets any results from his divination, he would tell me immediately." All sorts of thoughts surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback when he looked at the Inspect Heavenly Token in his hand. He was dazed by what he found.


    The mark that belonged to his wife Yi Xiao had dissipated!


    "The transmission mark has dissipated?"


    "Xiaoxiao is dead?"


    Instantly, all the thoughts in his mind vanished.


    His mind turned completely blank.


    There was not even sorrow or anger¡­


    It was entirely blank. It had been a long while since he had not had a single thought. All he did was stare at the Inspect Heavenly Token in his hand in a daze.


    Suddenly¡ª


    Heaven and Earth powers that enveloped tens of thousands of kilometers stirred, producing a voice. Back when Qin Yun grasped Heaven Man Unity, he could control the Heaven and Earth powers to emit his voice throughout Grand Dominance City.


    But now, He Qian was controlling the Heaven and Earth powers that spanned tens of thousands of kilometers to emit his voice.


    The voice rumbled and resounded across numerous locales in the Great Chang empire.


    "Qin Yun, so you like to fight evil? This is the price!"


    "Remember, the person who killed your wife is me, He Qian! Haha¡­"


    The voice was still echoing throughout the world.


    Qin Yun, whose mind was still blank, suddenly turned his head. Through the Heaven and Earth powers, he rapidly cast out his perception. However, He Qian vanished using Void Transference after he delivered his words.


    ¡­


    He Qian''s voice had resounded across more than half of the Great Chang empire.


    In the bustling human cities, deep forest mountains, great lakes¡­ both humans and demons heard the resounding voice.


    "Nicely done!" In the deep forest mountains and lakes, there were demons lurking. "It''s all because of this Qin Yun slaying the world''s great fiendish demons that we''ve been forced into hiding. It feels so good hearing that his wife is dead. This He Qian sure is immensely powerful."


    "That Qin Yun has finally received his just deserts."


    "He can blame himself for constantly killing us fiendish demons. Now he is suffering from retribution." Demons that were lurking among humans cheered in secret.


    "What? Sword Immortal Qin''s wife is dead? She was killed by a fiendish demon?"


    "How did that happen?"


    Many human cultivators found it unbelievable.


    Many cultivators thought very highly of Qin Yun because he was not afraid of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. He had purged the world of fiendish demons through his strength alone. The lives of the common people had turned much better. But now, Qin Yun''s wife had been killed by a fiendish demon in an act of revenge. It left many cultivators shaking their heads in disbelief.


    "That Qin Yun sure is dumb. All the other cultivators keep a low profile but you insist on charging forward just because you are powerful? You went too far in offending the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons! Now that you have received retribution, who can you blame but yourself?"


    "Cultivation is all about oneself. Why should you care about those mortal ants? This fellow Daoist Qin suffered such a calamity because he cared too much about those mortal ants."


    There were a number of cultivators that shook their heads secretly.


    Although they were impressed by Qin Yun, many of them did not agree with his actions! For instance, they would rather cultivate and focus on themselves.


    There were even vicious ones who secretly cheered. "The higher he is placed on a pedestal, the worse it is when he falls. Look at his wretched state now!"


    There were all kinds of humans in the world.


    It was also common for there to be vicious and extremely selfish people. After all, there were those that surrendered themselves to the fiendish demons.

 337 She must be Alive

    Chapter 337: She must be Alive


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "The price of fighting evil?" Qin Yun stood in midair.


    "Is this the price?"


    "Xiaoxiao¡­"


    Qin Yun could not stop his mind from conjuring various scenes.


    He could still remember the first time they met. Demons had attacked the Grand Dominance County''s Courtesan Belle selection! Qin Yun had tried to rescue Chen Shuang and the rest but he was too slow. At the most critical moment, someone shot out palm lightning that split into three and struck the demons! Qin Yun turned his head in excitement¡­ then he saw a woman in a light-blue dress standing by the riverbank. Her dress fluttered in the wind and she had the otherworldly disposition of a cultivator. That was the first time Qin Yun met Yi Xiao. He only had one thought: "How beautiful."


    He recalled the time when both of them launched an assault against Water God together. Qin Yun carried the severely injured Yi Xiao and engaged in Sword Kinesis Flight¡­ That was their first intimate contact. And it was also the moment they began forming inchoate feelings for each other.


    During the mid-autumn festival, the moon was extremely beautiful and the tides were gentle. Qin Yun could not help but kiss Yi Xiao who looked like a fairy in the moonlight.


    On the night he created Bright Moon Over River, the two of them made their vows.


    "I only wish to hold your hand, and grow old with you, never abandoning you in life and in death."


    "Never abandoning you in life and in death."


    That was a lifetime vow.


    They were once trapped in the underground complex of the Immortal Abode together. They got married there and led a happy life, like an immortal couple that stayed aloof from the complexities of the mortal world.


    ¡­


    After more than ten years of marriage, the two of them had learned to rely on each other.


    The scenes kept flooding in: his wife making herself up, staying by his side as he wrote calligraphy, taking strolls with him beside the mirror lake, enjoying good food with him, traveling on a cloud to watch the East Sea''s sunrise or the icy mountains in the North Sea¡­


    "No."


    "No, I refuse to believe it."


    The western winds blew amid the setting sun. Qin Yun''s heart turned cold.


    "Xiaoxiao has to be alive. Is she really dead just because He Qian claimed it to be so? Does the dissipation of a transmission mark definitely mean death?" Qin Yun shook his head as he muttered to himself. For instance, the Bai family''s Bai Junyue had always refused to believe that her beau was dead. Even after a hundred years, she was adamant about it. She constantly sought to find him.


    The dissipation of the transmission mark only implied that she was an existence that the Heavenly Dao could not detect. Typically, that meant death.


    However, there were other possibilities for why the Heavenly Dao failed to detect her.


    For example, she could have been sent to another world, such as an Other Realm solar system! This world''s Heavenly Dao naturally could not sense her in a place like that.


    There were also other unknown possibilities.


    There were all sorts of Dharma spells, mystic arts, and array formations out there. It was possible to find a method to fool the Heavenly Dao. Of course, sending her to another world was very difficult. So was fooling the Heavenly Dao. That was why it was believed throughout the world that the dissipation of a transmission mark represented death.


    "Right." After Qin Yun convinced himself that his wife was alive, he immediately thought of many other aspects that seemed suspicious. "If Xiaoxiao is dead, why isn''t there a corpse?"


    "Also, if that fiendish demon, He Qian, truly wanted Xiaoxiao dead, why did he go through the trouble of infiltrating the West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground and capturing Xiaoxiao alive by teleporting through Void Transference? Why didn''t he just kill her outright? Teleporting with Xiaoxiao, an existence that has reached the first Firmament True Dragon realm, has a humongous cost." Qin Yun immediately thought of these points. His eyes lit up. "To pay such a huge price only to abduct Xiaoxiao and then kill her? That''s completely illogical."


    "Yes."


    "It''s not logical." Qin Yun was even more convinced as he thought it through.


    Qin Yun took out the Inspect Heavenly Token and immediately connected with Hong Lingtong.


    Buzz.


    Grand Dominance''s Hong Manor.


    Hong Lingtong watched as Qin Yun''s phantom appeared in front of him. Qin Yun''s eyes had a terrifyingly crazy look in them.


    "Brother Hong," said Qin Yun urgently. "Xiaoxiao must be alive."


    "What?" Hong Lingtong was taken aback.


    "Look, if that fiendish demon He Qian truly wanted to kill Xiaoxiao, he could have killed her immediately when he teleported into the West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground. Why did he capture her alive and escape using Void Transference only to kill her later? Isn''t that superfluous? Xiaoxiao is at the first Firmament True Dragon realm. Using Void Transference with her¡­ has a huge price," said Qin Yun quickly. "And this entire time, there hasn''t been a corpse. I believe that Xiaoxiao must be alive."


    "I see." Hong Lingtong could not help but nod.


    "Brother Hong, please help me by doing your divine inference. Please see if Xiaoxiao is still alive," pleaded Qin Yun.


    "Alright, I''ll give it a try. Previously, I was trying to track her location as well as He Qian''s. If I just try to infer whether or not she''s alive, that''s a lot easier." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded immediately. "Thanks."


    "It''s nothing," said Hong Lingtong with a faint smile.


    After they severed their communication, Hong Lingtong sighed inwardly. "Her transmission mark has clearly dissipated but Brother Qin Yun is still adamant that his wife is alive. Sigh, I''ll give it another try." And so he tried to infer once again.


    ******


    In the Grotto-heaven at the Boor Ancestral Sect, the Six World Isolation Skyarray enveloped an area that spanned half a kilometer.


    Inside the array, Yi Xiao had regained consciousness and saw the purple-robed man in front of her.


    "Where am I?" Yi Xiao immediately stood up, and at the same time she felt a biting pain throughout her body. She was no longer in the vicinity of the Dragon Pool. Without its power, the pain of Yi Xiao''s bloodline awakening gradually intensified.


    "From now on, you will be living here obediently," said He Qian with a smile.


    "You are that mortal fiendish demon. I saw you once outside Grand Dominance City. Why did you abduct me?" Yi Xiao stared at him. At the same time, she tried to use her Dharmic powers to control her transmission treasure but realized that her Dharmic powers had been sealed.


    "Abduct you? Obviously, it''s because of that husband of yours! He spoiled my grand plans," said He Qian.


    Yi Xiao felt the excruciating pain in her body increase as snow-white scales appeared on her skin. She could not bear the pain as she transformed into a white-scaled dragon. She was a lot bigger than she was when she had first experienced the awakening. She found the pain unbearable. Although her Dharmic powers had been sealed, her bloodline awakening¡­ had little to do with Dharmic powers. It was a transformation that changed her at her most vital core. Even her blood, tendons, bones, and flesh were transforming. She was naturally absorbing the surrounding Heaven and Earth spiritual energies.


    There were clouds condensing around her.


    Large amounts of spirit energy swirled around her as she absorbed every bit of it.


    "If an ordinary mortal cultivator had their Dharmic powers sealed, they might starve to death. However, you have reached the True Dragon realm and there are many divine powers available to a True Dragon. You can imbibe the clouds and absorb spiritual energies easily. You won''t starve to death," said He Qian with a smile. "Just wait here. Perhaps there will come a day when you can meet your husband again."


    With that said, He Qian turned and left. He passed through the Six World Isolation Skyarray but did not meet with any obstruction. It was because the array was under his control.


    Although the array had been set up by both him and Sect Master Boor Ancestral, he had ultimate control over the array!


    Clearly¡­ the Empyrean Lord trusted He Qian the most.


    "W-Where is this place?"


    Yi Xiao coiled on the ground as a dragon as she looked at the six-colored lights that resembled an aurora.


    The six-colored lights enveloped a tiny, separated world that spanned half a kilometer. She was the only one in that world.


    "Brother Yun¡­"


    At that moment, Yi Xiao worried for the child in her womb and also missed her husband.


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance''s Hong Manor.


    "Ninth Hong, in regards to Qin Yun''s request for your inference, tell him that his wife is alive no matter the outcome," instructed Human Emperor.


    "I should say that she is alive even if I fail to discover anything?" Hong Lingtong was in a dilemma.


    "Ninth Hong, you were one of the nine immortals that reincarnated into my Great Chang world. Of course, only you and Eighth Zhu have awakened your memories," said Human Emperor. "I believe that you are also aware that my Great Chang world is on the verge of a titanic catastrophe."


    "Yes." Hong Lingtong nodded. "The Great Chang world is indeed in such a state. It''s because of the great catastrophe that one has a good chance of accruing great merit. That was why all of us reincarnated here. Why do you mention this, Your Majesty?"


    "Qin Yun''s talent is naturally not considered so dazzling in the Three Realms. I''ve heard that among the countless worlds in the Three Realms, there are people who ponder over the Dao overnight and ascend into the heavens as a Skyimmortal the next day," said Human Emperor.


    "Yes, there are many people that are more powerful than Brother Qin Yun. However, most of them were born impressive. They were Skyimmortals or Skydragons at birth! Or perhaps, they ate a Nine Transformation Golden Pill that was refined by the Supreme Dao Ancestor, becoming a Skyimmortal immediately. There are those with excellent opportunities and those were taken in as disciples of mighty figures," said Hong Lingtong. "For Brother Qin Yun to achieve what he has in a mortal world is already rather impressive."


    "Yes, Qin Yun''s talent is very impressive in our world. Under normal growth circumstances, it is highly possible for him to reach the strength of a Skyimmortal within two or three centuries," elaborated Human Emperor. "If Brother Zhang and I do our best to groom him, Qin Yun might gain the strength of a Skyimmortal even earlier."


    "Now, his wife has been abducted by the fiendish demon in the West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground¡­ By using a Void Transference treasure, it shows that they are sparing no expense! That is no small price to pay for a single kidnapping."


    "Thinking back to the pending catastrophe, I believe that there is a secret motive behind Yi Xiao''s situation."


    Human Emperor said, "It is likely that they are targeting Qin Yun! However, the catastrophe has yet to happen. That''s why they can only stall for time and use such scummy methods."


    "Why did they do so?" Hong Lingtong frowned.


    "Under normal growth conditions, Qin Yun would soar to the sky. This is apparent to us all," said Human Emperor. "And for cultivators, their state of mind is very important. Once they suffer a setback, their state of mind might suffer drastically! It would even possible to doubt the Dao they originally forged. The Dao they cultivated in would also change drastically! Now that Qin Yun appears to be enjoying a meteoric rise, it''s possible for him to fall terribly if he suffers a setback and has his state of mind altered."


    Hong Lingtong nodded slightly.


    A drastic change in state of mind would indeed cause changes to one''s cultivation path.


    "We do not dare risk such a thing," said Human Emperor. "Regardless if his wife is really alive or dead, we must make Qin Yun believe that his wife is still alive. Only by believing that his wife is alive will Qin Yun''s state of mind remain intact."


    "I understand." Hong Lingtong nodded.


    "Perhaps the goal of making Qin Yun''s state of mind change is the simplest plan. They captured Yi Xiao alive and lack the strength to do anything else for now. Once the time comes¡­ they could put Yi Xiao to better use in a plot against Qin Yun," said Human Emperor. "After all, compared to Brother Zhang and me, Qin Yun is relatively easy to deal with!"


    Hong Lingtong nodded slightly.

 338 Golden Immortal

    Chapter 338: Golden Immortal


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Under the dark evening sky, Qin Yun descended into Hong Manor.


    "Brother Qin Yun." Hong Lingtong had been waiting.


    "How was it?" Qin Yun asked urgently. He had rushed there all the way from the West Sea at full speed.


    Hong Lingtong shook his head and said, "I''ve attempted but failed to find her. It''s possible that she''s dead and it''s also possible that the fiendish demon is too powerful, preventing me from uncovering anything."


    "You can''t figure out anything?" Qin Yun frowned as he immediately asked, "That He Qian could use a Void Transference treasure to teleport Xiaoxiao, even though she has reached the True Dragon realm¡­ He must have made the adequate preparations. It''s only natural that you can''t uncover anything."


    With that said, Qin Yun turned even more anxious.


    "I have one other method that I can try," said Hong Lingtong. "Perhaps we can at least determine if she is still alive or dead."


    "Can you use it now?" asked Qin Yun.


    "This method is something I learned about in my previous life but I did not dare cast it. After all, I was at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm back then," said Hong Lingtong. "But now, I''m at the Connate Golden Core realm. I''m a mortal! The restrictions the Heavenly Dao puts on mortals are the weakest. I probably can give it a try but I will need you to aid me, Brother Qin Yun."


    "What can I do?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I need to first set up a Heaven Entreating Dharma Array. However, I lack some of the materials needed for setting up the array so I will need your help." Hong Lingtong handed a piece of paper to Qin Yun. "I have already listed the materials needed."


    Qin Yun took a look at it after receiving it. He said with a nod, "Alright, leave the materials to me. Is there anything else?"


    "No, just hand me the materials when you are done gathering them," said Hong Lingtong.


    "You did not dare to cast this spell in your previous life. Will there be a problem casting it now?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Don''t worry. There''s no Heavenly Punishment, so I will be able to do it easily," replied Hong Lingtong.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    He and Hong Lingtong had been friends for many years. There wasn''t a need to say too much.


    "I''ll make a move first."


    Qin Yun immediately left as a beam of light, ready to put his all into gathering the materials.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun spent the whole night gathering the items, with the help of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance and Myriad Temple. He traveled to six places in the world and by dawn the next day, he had gathered all the materials Hong Lingtong needed.


    "Whoosh."


    After gathering all the materials, Qin Yun rushed from the North Sea back to Grand Dominance, where the morning sun had already risen.


    As he looked at the ends of the East Sea, where the morning sun separated from the horizon, Qin Yun watched it in a daze for a moment before rushing straight down into Hong Manor.


    "Brother Hong, take a look. Are these materials right?" Qin Yun handed a Cosmic Bag over.


    Hong Lingtong took it and checked it. He smiled with a nod. "Very good. You have even gathered a little more than I require. I''ll now enter seclusion to set up the Heaven Entreating Dharma Array. But Brother Qin Yun¡­ the casting of the spell will last seven consecutive days. I''ll give you the result after seven days."


    "Sorry for troubling you." Qin Yun nodded.


    "No problem." Hong Lingtong turned and left. He immediately entered seclusion to set up the array.


    Qin Yun watched silently. "Even His Majesty has said that Brother Hong is the best at divine inference in this world. Now, it will all depend on him."


    ******


    Qin Yun returned to Qin Manor.


    None of the servants in the manor dared to disturb Qin Yun. Instead, Qin Liehu and Changlan were the ones that had a sleepless night. They immediately came to inquire when they learned that Qin Yun had returned.


    "Yun''er, all the rumors they are spreading outside are fake, aren''t they?" asked Changlan immediately. "That resounding voice that called himself He Qian was just speaking nonsense, right?"


    "Mom, it''s fine," said Qin Yun. "Also, none of you should leave Grand Dominance City for the time being."


    "We know." Qin Liehu nodded.


    "I''m tired. I need some rest," said Qin Yun.


    Qin Liehu quickly tugged at Changlan.


    Changlan wanted to say something but she held back. "Yun''er, have a good rest."


    Her son was a famous existence in a world. How much could an ordinary woman like her know? However, she and Qin Liehu could tell that Qin Yun was acting strangely. It was likely that something truly bad had happened.


    Inside the manor, Qin Yun sat alone. The corridors, gardens, pavilions, lakeside¡­ He had shared memories with his wife in every one of them.


    "Xiaoxiao, I know that you are certainly alive." Qin Yun leaned back against a chair as he sat in silence.


    ¡­


    Seven days later.


    Qin Yun arrived early in Hong Manor. All the servants of Hong Manor had heard He Qian''s resounding voice. All of them acted very carefully around him.


    "Brother Qin Yun!'' A figure rapidly rushed over.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun immediately stood up from inside a pavilion.


    The figure appeared in two or three steps. He was none other than Hong Lingtong. His face was pale and his eyes were dim. However, he looked happy as he said, "Brother Qin Yun, I''m certain that Sister-in-law is definitely alive!"


    "She''s alive?" Qin Yun was immediately delighted.


    He had waited seven days to finally receive good news.


    Although he was convinced that his wife was alive, he knew deep down that it was merely a guess!


    Now that Hong Lingtong had confirmed that his wife was alive through divine inference, it gave him reassurance.


    "However, my realm is insufficient to divine exactly where she is," said Hong Lingtong. "All I can see is that she''s still alive."


    "It''s already very impressive for you to accomplish that much," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Xiaoxiao is still alive but they deliberately made me think that she''s dead." Qin Yun frowned. "They even paid such a massive price to abduct Xiaoxiao from the West Sea Dragon Palace''s forbidden grounds¡­ There must be a devious plot behind this matter."


    Hong Lingtong nodded. "They must be really trying to target you. However, their efforts are probably lacking now. They were able to capture her alive for the time being and are waiting for an opportunity to use Yi Xiao against you."


    "Poor Xiaoxiao is a pawn in this matter." Qin Yun nodded. "The best action I can take is to rescue Xiaoxiao before they are fully prepared."


    "But to save her, I need to know where she is." Qin Yun frowned.


    "I have no way of helping you." Hong Lingtong sighed. "My realm is insufficient. If my realm was high enough, I''d probably have become a Skyimmortal."


    If he could have become a Skyimmortal, there would have been no need for him to risk himself by reincarnating.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun departed, Hong Lingtong contacted Human Emperor.


    "Your Majesty, I made an attempt with the Heaven Entreating Dharma Array but still failed to figure out anything," said Hong Lingtong. "If Yi Xiao isn''t dead, then the enemy''s methods are very brilliant."


    "Did Qin Yun believe it?" asked Human Emperor.


    "Many of the Heaven Entreating Dharma Array''s materials were gathered by him and he was made to wait seven days. I believe he must have believed it," said Hong Lingtong with a nod.


    ¡­


    Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun wasn''t dumb. He knew that it was possible Hong Lingtong was only consoling him.


    However, He Qian taking the time to abducti Yi Xiao through Void Transference before killing her was illogical. Furthermore, Hong Lingtong was the best at divine inference in the world. He spoke convincingly and gave Qin Yun a lot more confidence.


    "Senior Zhang." Qin Yun contacted Ancestral Master Zhang and said immediately, "Brother Hong cast a Heaven Entreating Dharma Array and although he failed to find Yi Xiao, he has confirmed that she''s still alive."


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of delight.


    "I wish to know if there''s anyone who might have a way to save Yi Xiao," inquired Qin Yun.


    "How are we to save her if we do not even know where she is?" Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head.


    Qin Yun asked, "That He Qian definitely knows where she is. However, we can''t even find him. Is divination inference really the only way to discover where Yi Xiao is?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "Yes, from the looks of it, divination inference is the only way. Ninth Hong''s skill in this has reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. There''s no one better than him in this world."


    "Our world might not have anyone, but what about the other worlds?" pressed Qin Yun. "Senior Zhang, I know you that you are acquainted with experts from other worlds. Is there a way?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang hesitated for a moment before saying, "Even existences at the Skyimmortal level who are skilled at divine inference¡­ would find it impossible to infer the location of your wife through vast space. Those that can cast such Dharma spells across such long distances will only be the mightiest figures."


    "Mightiest figures?" Qin Yun was perplexed.


    "For instance, a dragon existence at the Ancestral Dragon realm, our Daoist way''s Golden Immortal, the Buddhist way''s Buddha, or the magus lineage''s Ancestral Magus," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "At that level, even distant space cannot stop their divine powers."


    Qin Yun could not help but ask, "Is it possible to get their help?"


    "Haha¡­"


    Ancestral Master Zhang laughed. "Qin Yun, it looks like you do not understand what status they hold. There are twelve Golden Immortals under Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning 1, one of our Daoist way''s Three Pure Ones 2! That is already very impressive. For instance, the Dragon race¡­ in the earliest era, only the Ancestral Dragon was at the Ancestral Dragon realm! Even to this very day, with the Dragon race being so powerful, they have fewer than ten at the Ancestral Dragon realm."


    Qin Yun felt a little lost when he heard that.


    "Let me put it this way. The Heavenly Courts govern the Three Realms but Golden Immortal mighty figures and the various Buddhas are not under the Heavenly Courts'' jurisdiction. Such mighty figures are esteemed guests of the Jade Emperor 3and Queen Mother 4," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Do you think you have what it takes to request their help?"

 339 Ancestral Dragon Realm Existence Puqu Dragonlord

    Chapter 339: Ancestral Dragon Realm Existence Puqu Dragonlord


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Is the difference between a Skyimmortal and a Golden Immortal very huge?" asked Qin Yun. He did not know much about the realms above Skyimmortal.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "According to the realm demarcations, there are nine Firmaments to the Skyimmortal realm. Above that is the Golden Immortal realm."


    "In between every three Firmaments of the nine Firmaments of the Skyimmortal realm is a chasm! In the entire Three Realms, there are many worlds in the Mortal Realm. The weaker worlds don''t even have Skyimmortals. The stronger worlds have one or two Skyimmortals. However, if you put many of these worlds together, with thousands, if not tens of thousands, of Skyimmortals, you might not even see one Golden Immortal produced," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Although I created the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, a Dharmic formulation that reaches the Skyimmortal realm, earning the Dao Ancestor''s acceptance of me as a disciple, the amount of time I have cultivated is just too short. I have never even met a Golden Immortal to date! Nor do I have a way to contact them."


    "Dao Ancestor disciple?" Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang in astonishment.


    "Don''t think that this is some impressive status," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "Out of Daoism''s Three Pure Ones, my master, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, proliferated the immortal teachings and provided education for all. He has numerous disciples, so many that it exceeds the numbers of Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning and Highest Elder Lord combined."


    However, Qin Yun said immediately, "Senior Zhang, you managed to impress the Dao Ancestor enough to be taken in as his disciple. That''s already very impressive."


    "I have not cultivated for long so my strength is still limited. I have yet to meet any mighty Golden Immortals, so I can''t help you find one," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded, feeling helpless.


    Golden Immortals, Buddhas¡­


    Those were mighty figures that even the Heavenly Courts had no power over. All of them were extraordinarily powerful and infinitely resourceful. Such existences were indeed far removed from someone like him.


    If Ancestral Master Zhang were to continue cultivating for tens of thousands of years or have achievements that far exceeded his current state, it was probable that he could acquaint himself with a mighty Golden Immortal. Unfortunately, Ancestral Master Zhang did not know any at the moment.


    "I''ll ask the East Sea Skydragon. As dragons, they have a powerful background after all. Perhaps they might have a solution," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Okay." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Moments later.


    Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head and said, "The Skydragon is only at the third Firmament Skydragon realm. He doesn''t have what it takes to make contact with existences at the Ancestral Dragon realm either."


    The Dragon race had no more than ten existences at the Ancestral Dragon realm! All of them held elevated statues.


    After all, the Ancestral Dragon had nine sons. All nine were born at the peak Skydragon realm but clearly, there were a few of the nine that had failed to reach the Ancestral Dragon realm. As such, they remained at the peak Skydragon realm.


    "Even the East Sea Skydragon isn''t able to make contact with them?" Qin Yun suddenly had a thought. "Back in the Ancient Skydragon Palace, I received a memento. It allows me to seek the help of the ancient Skydragon''s senior brother on one matter. It''s said that the ancient Skydragon''s senior brother is a lot stronger than he was. Perhaps he knows of an existence at the Ancestral Dragon realm?"


    Upon remembering this, Qin Yun immediately flipped his hand and produced a dragon-shaped figurine.


    "What is that?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up. He could vaguely sense that the dragon figure had an incredible origin.


    "It was left behind by the ancient Skydragon for those who are fated. I was lucky to obtain it at the Ancient Skydragon Palace," said Qin Yun. "The ancient Skydragon said that I can contact his senior brother through this and request his help once! His senior brother''s strength is far above his¡­ I''m wondering if this senior can help with the current matter."


    "The ancient Skydragon? That was hundreds of thousands of years ago. His senior brother''s strength was already above his back then. He might have elevated himself among the Dragon race by now." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "Don''t rush to use the treasure yet. I''ll set off now to come see you. Let''s contact that dragon expert after I arrive."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was the Dao Ancestor''s disciple. Perhaps the dragon senior would be a little impressed by that.


    ******


    Moments later.


    Qin Manor.


    By the mirror lake''s bank, Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "Now, let''s contact that dragon expert."


    "Okay." Qin Yun looked at the dragon figurine in his hand. It gave him hope.


    Hope that the mighty figure could bless everything! A blessing that he could save his wife!


    Hum!


    Qin Yun immediately powered the dragon figurine.


    Immediately a wave connected him with an Other Realm void. Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. In fact, he was afraid that he would fail to make contact. It had been hundreds of thousands of years. Could the ancient Skydragon''s senior brother have met with an accident? Clearly, the connection was still there. The senior was still fine and living.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The void emanated ripples as a gigantic rift cracked open. On the other side of the rift was a desolate planet. Sitting cross-legged on it was a dragon expert. He had dragon horns and a wizened face. His aura was overwhelming.


    He opened his eyes and, through the void''s rift, looked at the Great Chang world where Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang were standing in awe of him.


    He instantly noticed the dragon figurine in Qin Yun''s hands. He had a conflicted look in his eyes as he sighed and said, "Human, is there something you need? Since you possess the memento, I will help you once if it is within my powers. Just as I promised my junior brother."


    "Qin Yun, this dragon expert is stronger than me, as well as the East Sea Skydragon," said Ancestral Master Zhang through a voice transmission. "He has lived for a very long time and is also a member of the Dragon race. Perhaps he can help you."


    "Senior," Qin Yun greeted him reverently but he felt uneasy. This was his only hope. "My wife, Yi Xiao, is also a member of the Dragon race. Furthermore, she is undergoing a bloodline awakening. She has already reached the first Firmament True Dragon realm and is also pregnant. But while she was in the Dragon Palace''s forbidden ground in our world, she was abducted by a fiendish demon. Now, her transmission mark has dissipated. We have tried everything we can and managed to infer that she is still alive! However, we have no way of locating her. Senior, I wonder if you can help me rescue my wife."


    "A member of the Dragon race? Bloodline awakening?" The dragon expert frowned. "I do want to help you but how can I if you do not even know where your wife is? Besides¡­ I''m located too far from your world."


    Qin Yun felt somewhat disappointed when he heard that.


    From the looks of it, the dragon expert was unable to provide any direct help across the endless cosmos.


    "To help your wife, her location needs to be pinpointed first." The dragon expert shook his head gently. "Inferring your wife''s location across distant space is something only the mightiest figures can do."


    "Senior, do you have any ideas?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Let''s do this. This is a memento of my master uncle, Puqu 1Dragonlord. Through this, you can contact him." The dragon expert waved his hand and sent a golden token flying out. It tunneled across the distant space and arrived in the Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun reached out his hand and grabbed it. The golden token was much heavier than it looked, and it was engraved with the words ''Puqu.''


    "My uncle master has one hobby. He loves treasures," said the dragon expert. "Perhaps you might be able to seek his help through treasures. This is all I can do for you. The karma between you and I ends here."


    With that said, the void rift closed.


    Qin Yun was no longer able to see the other side.


    "Puqu Dragonlord?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up. "That is a mighty figure at the Ancestral Dragon realm. You are already very lucky to be able to contact such a mighty figure."


    In fact, Ancestral Master Zhang could have helped Qin Yun if he spared no expenses.


    However, it was not worth it for Ancestral Master Zhang to pay such an immense price just to save Qin Yun''s wife.


    To Ancestral Master Zhang, his own cultivation, world, and sect¡­ were a lot more important than Qin Yun''s wife.


    "There is at least hope if I can meet a mighty figure. Senior Zhang, should I try now?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Let''s meet this Puqu Dragonlord." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    Qin Yun held the golden token.


    Hum¡ª


    Again, the void produced a rift and as though a curtain was being drawn, revealing another spot in distant space. Coiled in the void was a massive dragon. He was surrounded by a boundless starry sky and there were large mountains floating amid the cosmos. More than a hundred mountains formed a massive array.


    The dragon opened his eyes and looked at them. His dragon whiskers flailed as they contained immense nomological charm.


    Upon seeing him, Qin Yun could not help but feel his heart palpitate. He felt like a child gazing upon the endless cosmos.


    "Dragonlord." Qin Yun bowed extremely respectfully.


    "Dragonlord. Greetings, I am Divine Firmament." Ancestral Master Zhang bowed as well.


    The ancient dragon looked over and said indifferently, "Oh? It''s Daoist Divine Firmament, the newly recruited disciple of Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. Why is my memento in the hands of a mortal human?"


    "We have quite a situation," explained Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "My young friend, Qin Yun, has a wife who is a dragon. Furthermore, she is undergoing a bloodline awakening and has reached the first Firmament True Dragon realm. She is also pregnant. During the awakening process, she was abducted by a fiendish demon. Now, we are unable to find her location and wish to seek your help, Dragonlord."


    "One must give in order to receive." The ancient dragon''s eyes watched them calmly. "Prepare a superior-grade Numinous treasure before contacting me again. When that happens, I will help this human save his wife."


    With that said, the void rift closed.


    Qin Yun did not even get the chance to say another word.


    "That dragon expert from before had indeed thought things through when he directed you to Puqu Dragonlord. A typical mighty figure would have ignored us," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "For him to even offer a deal, that''s a good thing."


    "I didn''t even manage to say¡­" Qin Yun felt helpless.


    "What do you have to say? He made it clear. He will help you once you have a superior-grade Numinous treasure. He also said that you are to prepare one before contacting him again." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head and said, "He could tell at a glance that you clearly do not have a superior-grade Numinous treasure on you."

 340 Qin Yuns Three Options

    Chapter 340: Qin Yun''s Three Options


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "A mighty figure like Dragonlord could see your treasure halo at a glance. Of course he could determine that all the treasures you have added together are still far from a superior-grade Numinous treasure," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun''s heart chilled.


    He only had one Numinous treasure on him, the Cosmic Bangles. Although his Intrinsic Flying Sword was more powerful, that was only when it was used by him. If it was given to others, it would only be an ordinary transcendent-grade flying sword.


    "Senior Zhang," asked Qin Yun immediately. "Do Numinous treasures have grades too? What grade are my Cosmic Bangles?"


    Qin Yun stretched out his hand as the black bangles on his wrist flew out and floated in front of Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Ancestral Master Zhang gently touched them and said, "This is an inferior-grade Numinous treasure. It is also the most common kind. In our homeworld, most Numinous treasures are inferior-grade Numinous treasures."


    "Inferior-grade? How many grades of Numinous treasures are there? How much is a superior-grade Numinous treasure worth?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "Numinous treasures have four grades¡ªinferior-grade, medial-grade, superior-grade, and supreme-grade," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Inferior-grade Numinous treasures are very common. Even people like me are able to refine one. For example, every peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm cultivator like Yi Yan typically has a Numinous treasure to protect them. Of course, it is an inferior-grade Numinous treasure."


    "As for a superior-grade Numinous treasure, its value is about ten times that of an inferior-grade Numinous treasure," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "In our world, there are only three known superior-grade Numinous treasures."


    "Three?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "The first one is the Stellar Heavenly Cycle on Numinous Treasure Mountain. In using it, Old Bai has performed deeds of valor for humanity. He has fought countless battles and experienced numerous wars. He is able to remain alive all thanks to the Stellar Heavenly Cycle," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a sigh. "And the other item is the Godfiend lineage''s heritage treasure, Earth-shattering Stellar Armor. It is presently in the hands of Human Emperor. The Godfiend lineage has been passed down from the ancient Connate Godfiends. It once went into decline but it has never been terminated. This Earth-shattering Stellar Armor has a lot to do with its continued survival! A peak third Firmament Godfiend can use the Earth-shattering Stellar Armor to match a Skygod. Furthermore, it is extremely powerful when it comes to life preservation."


    "The final item is the East Sea Dragon race''s Cosmo Flying Ship. If the dragons ever decided that the situation here is untenable, they can use the Cosmo Flying Ship to evacuate their entire race from this world."


    These matters were all considered top secret but with Qin Yun''s strength and status, he was qualified to be privy to them.


    However, Qin Yun instantly understood that he had no hopes of getting any of the three superior-grade Numinous treasures after Ancestral Master Zhang''s description. All of them were critical to each lineage! Why would they ever give them up to save Qin Yun''s wife?


    "How can I find another superior-grade Numinous treasure?" Qin Yun felt a little wry after hearing the information. "I lucked out at the Ancient Skydragon Palace by obtaining this set of Cosmic Bangles. It''s understandable that I got lucky once, but for me to be lucky another nine times?"


    "It''s hard to tell," Ancestral Master Zhang said with a smile, "For instance, the Cosmic Bangles you have now are something no one knew existed previously. Perhaps there is an impressive treasure hidden in a particular location in our world that is unknown to us."


    Qin Yun said, "That''s trying my luck. I can''t just rely on luck, can I?"


    "You are a mortal and that is an advantage in its own way," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "For instance, if you fight with Essence Souls, you will not suffer Heavenly Punishment even though your Dharmic powers are a lot weaker. You could even head to other worlds. It is a lot easier to send mortal beings there."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Immediately, he had many ideas.


    "However, it is just too difficult to gather the equivalent of a superior-grade Numinous treasure." Qin Yun felt the pressure. It was an extremely demanding goal.


    A superior-grade Numinous Treasure Mountain was able to hold down the light shined on the Godfiend lineage by providence. Same for the Daoist sacred land like Numinous Treasure Mountain!


    For instance, the Divine Firmament Chapter, Primordial Chaos Sect, and Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery did not even have superior-grade Numinous treasures.


    Of course, Ancestral Master Zhang had many treasures too. Added together, they naturally matched a superior-grade Numinous treasure. However, at his level, what benefited him the most was having something suitable! There was no need to have a superior-grade Numinous treasure.


    "It''s very difficult. However, given his Dragonlord status, it is normal for him to request a superior-grade Numinous treasure in exchange for saving someone across endless space," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "After all, Numinous treasures at this level have little use for a mighty figure at the Ancestral Dragon realm. Typically, they are gifted to juniors! It is only because this Puqu Dragonlord enjoys collecting treasures that he raised such a condition. Typical mighty figures would not be that amenable. Haha, in fact, many dragons enjoy collecting treasures."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The Dragonlord had given him a chance because he enjoyed collecting treasures.


    By using his status as a mortal, making full use of his identity¡­ he had to gather a superior-grade Numinous treasure?


    He had to make detailed preparations! He needed luck and strength!


    "Senior Zhang, if I were to obtain a Numinous treasure, how am I to judge its grade?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "Check the runic patterns on the Numinous treasure and compare them to your Cosmic Bangle''s. Those of relatively similar levels will be inferior-grade Numinous treasures. If they are more profound, they are likely medial-grade or superior-grade Numinous treasures," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Your realm is still rather low. So that''s all you can do to make a rough judgment. If you gain the strength of a Skyimmortal, it might become a lot easier to make the analysis."


    "Understood." Qin Yun nodded. "If I gather a few inferior-grade Numinous treasures as well as some rare items that match a superior-grade Numinous treasure in value, would the Dragonlord be willing to take that?"


    "Dragonlord specifically said a superior-grade Numinous treasure so that means you need to produce a superior-grade Numinous treasure," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Rest assured. If you are able to gather the required treasures, East Sea Skydragon and I have means to help you exchange them."


    Qin Yun nodded gently.


    "It is very difficult to find a superior-grade Numinous treasure in a short period of time. Therefore, I would have to use extreme measures. Senior Zhang, I can only think of three methods for the time being," said Qin Yun. "One is to gather intelligence. I''ll try my best to seek out treasures hiding in our homeworld. This will require some lucky opportunities. Second, I need to know if I can head to other worlds! I''m a mortal Connate Golden Core so it shouldn''t be that difficult to be sent to other words. Third, I could pursue the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons'' fiendcelestials. If I have the chance, I can rob the treasures from these fiendcelestials after killing them. Apart from these methods, do you have any other ideas?"


    "Your ideas are very thorough. Our homeworld has existed for a very long time. It has also experienced many major wars. There might be hidden ruins or Grotto-heavens in particular places," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "We will try to gather that intelligence for you. You can then seek out the opportunities. As for heading to other worlds? That requires some specific timing and chance. It has to be a world close enough and with a chance of obtaining treasures. In short, we will help you keep an eye out for them. As for pursuing fiendcelestials? That is something rather suitable for you. Typically, when we pursue fiendcelestials, they are forced into a corner and use mortals to threaten us. Unless we can kill the fiendcelestial without implicating mortals¡­ it is rather difficult for us to kill fiendcelestials. You, on the other hand, are not held ransom to such considerations."


    "However, the fiendcelestials are very careful too. Especially after what has happened, they will guess that you are definitely filled with killing intent," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    His eyes flashed with a sliver of hate.


    "These fiendish demons were born into our homeworld but they ignore the lives of billions of fellow beings. They are a scourge as long as they remain alive. It''s best to get rid of them as soon as possible," said Qin Yun. His killing intent was brimming. Xiaoxiao''s abduction was a result of the fiendish demons.


    "The number of humans that have been killed since time immemorial is countless. Who knows when this will end?" Ancestral Master Zhang gently shook his head.


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    Compared to the entire world''s history, his wife''s situation was only trivial. Of course, to Qin Yun, it felt like the sky was collapsing on him. He burned with anxiety just thinking about his pregnant wife.


    "Old Bai, Human Emperor, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and I will discuss this matter and try to help you as much as we can." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "That is probably all that we can do for you."


    "Senior, sorry for troubling all of you," said Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded before he departed.


    Beside the mirror lake''s bank, Qin Yun watched Ancestral Master Zhang leave before he silently turned around to walk into his residence.


    Qin Yun only felt lonely and helpless without Yi Xiao.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun tried his best to gather all sorts of information.


    He went to the sects with a long history such as the Yue Chapter and Sword Tower to seek out clues of powerful existences that had existed since ancient times. He also spoke with the Dragon race for intelligence. Through the Inspector Heavenly Alliance and Myriad Temple, he proceeded with his investigations and intelligence gathering. He even used the manpower of his Qin household by ordering the servants to gather ancient tomes from the commoners as he investigated all sorts of clues.


    He wished he could find an undiscovered relic.


    Of course, Qin Yun knew that the chances were slim. All he could do was try.

 341 Traveling the World Final Chapter of Volume

    Months passed in a blink of an eye. It was the eve of the new year once again.


    In the study of Qin Manor.


    The study was filled with piles of ancient tomes. The dense pile added up to more than ten thousand books. Even though Qin Yun''s study was large, the pile took up more than half the space.


    Qin Yun was sitting in front of a desk, carefully perusing a tome while checking for clues.


    "Old Master, Miss Chen Shuang is here." Ah Gui''s voice sounded from outside.


    "Xiao Shuang?" Qin Yun looked up and instructed, "Quickly let her in."


    Soon after, a purple-dressed Chen Shuang flitted in. She was even carrying a basket. When she entered the study, she said with a smile, "Brother Yun, it''s almost the new year. I brought you some buns. I made them in my spare time."


    "Thanks," said Qin Yun as he put down the book he was reading.


    Chen Shuang looked at Qin Yun and carefully observed his complexion, expression, and the look in his eyes. Qin Yun now looked a lot more normal than he did a few months back.


    She still clearly remembered the first time she met Qin Yun again after Yi Xiao was abducted. Back then, Qin Yun had the appearance of a crazy devil. He kept studying the numerous ancient tomes and ignored her while she spoke.


    ''At least Brother Yun seems to have settled down a bit.''


    "By the way, I went back to Magistress Mountain a few days ago. My sect helped me find some ancient tomes that have historical records." Chen Shuang took out a Cosmic Bag from her waist. The moment it opened, a large number of ancient tomes flew out and began piling up in a corner of the study. It looked like there were more than a thousand books.


    "So many more again?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "You already gave me a lot the last time."


    "My magus lineage has existed since ancient times and has never been severed to this very day," said Chen Shuang with a smile. "In terms of historical records, perhaps only the Godfiend lineage''s are comparable to ours. Magistress Mountain had the last batch of books to begin with. As for these twelve hundred books I brought, they were gathered from various locations my magus lineage had once settled in under the Magistress''s orders."


    Qin Yun nodded and thanked her. "Xiao Shuang, you have really helped me a great deal."


    "Has there been any news of Sister Yi?" asked Chen Shuang.


    "Not yet." Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    "Magistress said that your talent is among the greatest in this world''s history. With your strength, you will definitely be able to rescue Sister Yi," consoled Chen Shuang immediately.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "I also believe that Xiaoxiao and I will reunite."


    After a short conversation, Chen Shuang bade him farewell and left.


    Qin Yun turned to look at the ancient tomes that Chen Shuang had delivered. He could ''see'' the books'' auras.


    "Open!"


    A vertical eye suddenly appeared in Qin Yun''s glabella.


    This eye shimmered with lightning. It was none other than the Eye of Lightning!


    When he first got it, he had prepared the divine power, Eye of Lightning, for his wife. But in this dire circumstance, Qin Yun chose to learn it himself! The Eye of Lightning was Ancestral Master Zhang''s strongest divine power. As for using it to kill enemies and weaken the lightning aspect of the Heavenly Punishments? These did not matter to Qin Yun at the moment. The Eye of Lightning was by no means inferior to the Buddhist school''s Heavenly Eye. He could discern humans, demons, the light from providence, karma¡­ almost everything!


    The divine power would be useful in his search for treasures, or even to seek out Yi Xiao.


    Even if his Eye of Lightning were closed, his perception of auras far exceeded that of his Dharma Eyes. If he opened it, it was even more impressive!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at the books that numbered more than a thousand. Each tome had an aura but they were all ordinary.


    "The Eye of Lightning did not discover anything special about these ancient tomes. That''s right. Opening the Heavenly Eye allows one to detect extraordinary ancient text¡­ But those would rarely be distributed."


    "I have gathered a massive number of ancient books from the imperial government and the Daoist and Buddhist sacred lands, as well as the numerous top sects. That also includes what I got from the Dragon race and the commoners. Yet, I have only discovered three special ancient tomes. They contain a treasure map within and they even hid some heritage." Qin Yun shook his head. "There are few people who can learn divine powers like the Heavenly Eye after all. There will always be some that slip through the cracks."


    Back when Qin Yun discovered that the tome hid a heritage, he found its treasure halo blinding! The light providence shined on it was immense!


    Later, he carefully investigated and found a golden piece of paper in the ancient tome. It contained a detailed heritage! It was a heritage that directed one straight to the peak of the third Firmament Essence Soul realm in talisman amulets. It also held records of three treasure lands. However, the heritage left behind was from an immortal at the second Firmament Essence Soul realm. His strength was inferior to Qin Yun''s current level so he was in no hurry to investigate the three treasure lands.


    Now, he was preparing to spend half a year''s time to ''roughly'' browse through all the ancient tomes before he set off to travel the world.


    As for studying the ancient tomes in detail, it would take too much time. He could slowly read them again while he traveled the world.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued reading the books and without him realizing it, the sky had turned dark.


    His parents and his brother, Qin An, had invited him to have dinner together. After all, it was new year''s eve! However, Qin Yun declined their invitation.


    "Whoosh."


    "Pa!"


    There were fireworks shooting up into the sky in various spots of Grand Dominance City during the night of new year''s eve. There was also incessant crackling from the firecrackers.


    Qin Yun walked out of the study as he looked up at the distant fireworks.


    "It''s new year''s eve." Qin Yun looked at his surroundings, which were desolate and silent.


    "Xiaoxiao. The transmission mark can''t sense you. Are you still in this world or have you been brought to another world?" Qin Yun looked into the starry sky as he spoke to himself.


    He gazed at the starry sky blankly for a moment before he flipped his hand, producing a blurry divine sword. He walked out of the yard and closed his eyes as he began casting his sword arts.


    Sword flashes lit up!


    The numerous sword flashes were resplendent and dazzling, making for an extremely gorgeous scene.


    Countless sword flashes rose up into the sky splendidly and were as blinding as the fireworks. They also manifested as one, streaking across the sky with a beautiful contour.


    But after it was cast, the resplendent sword flash exuded a tinge of misery. The charms within it were changing. Under the essence of this misery, the void began to freeze. Qin Yun had not used any of his Dharmic powers. All he did was control the sword indifferently.


    "Hahaha. Hahaha."


    Qin Yun stopped and began laughing. Tears streamed down his face as he laughed. They were clearly lit up by the fireworks'' illumination.


    "Fireworks, Fireworks." Qin Yun murmured. "Xiaoxiao is pregnant. I even thought of creating a sword art to celebrate. This inspired me to create the sword art''s first move, Fireworks. But Xiaoxiao has been abducted. Now, Fireworks no longer has a celebratory feeling to it at all."


    Back when he created the move, Qin Yun was filled with joy.


    He and his wife looked forward to the birth of their daughter.


    Under that state of mind, he began creating a new sword art. But he only managed to create one move before the sword art was destined to never be continued.


    Even the charms originally found in Fireworks could not be demonstrated by Qin Yun anymore. He did not have that feeling of joyous anticipation anymore. Fireworks changed completely as a result. The attack did not seem very different but its charms had experienced a qualitative change.


    "The charms within Fireworks have changed," murmured Qin Yun. "Everything feels like a dream. I wonder when I will awaken from this dream."


    ¡­


    In the fourth month of the year, Grand Dominance City began experiencing the summer heat.


    However, Qin Yun left Grand Dominance City alone to travel of the world.


    Old trees withered and sprouted again and again.


    Years passed one by one.


    (End of Volume)

 342 Fifteen Years Later

    Chapter 342: Fifteen Years Later


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Time passed and, in a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had been traveling the world for fifteen years.


    A figure flew through the clouds as he looked into the distance.


    He was wearing plain clothes and his hair was disheveled. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    "Li Mountain City."


    Qin Yun looked at the ancient and bustling city from a distance. "In order to seek out Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode, I spent three years just eliminating the other two spots! As such, it is very likely that the region around Li Mountain City is where Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode is hidden."


    "Open!"


    As he activated his Dharmic powers, a vertical eye opened in his glabella. It suffused lightning bolts.


    Qin Yun opened his Eye of Lightning and scanned Li Mountain City from afar. Even though he was more than fifty kilometers away, he could clearly see everything in Li Mountain City. He could see the famous buildings, rivers, and even the mountain ranges outside the city.


    "I do not see anything special. Then again, it''s unlikely that I can discover Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode simply by using the Eye of Lightning from a distance. It''s best I enter Li Mountain City and search the area properly." Qin Yun whizzed through the sky in a stream of light. In a flash, he arrived at Li Mountain City.


    ¡­


    Li Mountain City was a provincial city in Po Prefecture. However, Li Mountain City had a large populace that numbered three hundred thousand people. It was considered rather large for a provincial city. That was also because Li Mountain City had its own second-rate cultivation sect, the Li Mountain Sect. With a sect presiding over Li Mountain City, the city naturally flourished.


    Qin Yun sat down by the window of a restaurant in the city. He ordered two dishes and a flask of alcohol.


    "It''s been fifteen years." He poured himself a cup of alcohol and looked at the turbid drink. "All the treasures that I read about in the histories have been mostly found in the past five years. The rest have very few leads. It''s very difficult to seek them out."


    "Immortal Cloudgrace is a very special immortal that I discovered in the books. Although he only reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm, he never established a sect. Instead, he enjoyed visiting Other Realms. Before his death, he only left records of his cave abode and heritage in a book. However, it''s been nearly a hundred thousand years. Although the book was made of an extraordinary material, it was somewhat damaged. All I found was a remnant copy."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    "He is an immortal that enjoys visiting Other Realms and I can confirm that he had at least one Numinous treasure¡­ His cave abode must be extraordinary." Qin Yun pondered. He could not help but take out the three ancient books and flip through them again. They provided the most important information about Immortal Cloudgrace. Qin Yun often studied the texts one by one, hoping to find new clues. He had already read the remnant copies enough times to wear them out further.


    "Sister Chu, after you."


    A gentlemanly scion led a very beautiful girl into the restaurant.


    Servants followed behind the duo.


    "What restaurant is this? It looks really old. Brother Yu, let''s leave." The girl frowned, clearly disliking the place at first glance.


    The scion immediately said, "This restaurant has the best scenic view of Crescent Lake. I happened to chance upon it. Sister Chu, please bear with it for a while."


    "Don''t you see what sort of people are in here?" The girl held her handkerchief to her nose with a look of disgust. She swept the area with her eyes. Most of the patrons of the restaurant were commoners since the portions here were good value for money.


    The girl looked at the surroundings with contempt, and her eyes fell upon Qin Yun. She was similarly very derisive towards him.


    She was a daughter of the Chu family, the largest family clan in Li Mountain City! As for Qin Yun''s current appearance¡­ He had an ordinary sword hanging by his waist and he was dressed in the plainest of clothes. His hair was disheveled and he looked wild. He looked like a downtrodden member of the pugilistic world! Such riffraff was commonly seen. Many mercenaries of that sort worked for her Chu family.


    "Hmph." Not only was the girl contemptuous of the place, even her maidservants held their handkerchiefs to their noses, showing their looks of disgust.


    "Bear with it. Bear with it a little longer." The scion smiled sycophantically as he coaxed the girl upstairs.


    Only when they were upstairs did all sorts of discussions rupture on the first floor.


    "That''s the third daughter of the Chu family, right?"


    "Why would a daughter of such noble birth come here?"


    "It''s no wonder the second floor has been closed off. If she''s so disgusted by this place, then don''t come!"


    "Mind your words. Second Liu on East Street once derided her and ended up having his tongue cut out."


    The voices in the restaurant clearly lowered in volume after that remark.


    The Chu family''s daughter had what it took to be domineering in Li Mountain City. This was because, among the sect master and Elders of the Li Mountain Sect, three out of the five Connate experts were from the Chu family!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun read the three ancient books and soon finished his flask of alcohol. He flipped through the books thoroughly once again. Although he was reading very carefully, he finished quickly due to his high realm.


    "I can''t find any new clues."


    "I''ll do the same as usual. I''ll first investigate the area thoroughly with my Dao domain."


    Hua!


    With a thought, Qin Yun''s Dao domain emanated outwards and enveloped Li Mountain City. It even covered the mountain range outside Li Mountain City.


    After it had enveloped all, he began probing carefully.


    Within his range was the second-rate sect, the Li Mountain Sect, the various streets and rivers, the residences, the deep depths underground, the mountains, inside the caves¡­


    He searched every spot thoroughly.


    "I still haven''t discovered anything special. I''m certain that Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode is in the vicinity of Li Mountain City." Qin Yun frowned. "With my Dao domain, I''ve already enveloped a really large area. Could it be that the cave abode is beyond the range of my Dao domain? Or could it be that it is hidden so extremely well that my Dao domain can''t probe it?"


    "I''ll try my second method." Qin Yun placed some silver fragments on the table before he left the restaurant.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, as Qin Yun''s Dao domain enveloped the entire Li Mountain City¡­


    Li Mountain City''s Chu family.


    The Chu family''s elderly master was 110 years old. He was only at the Qi Refinement realm but his son was powerful! His only son was presently the Li Mountain Sect''s sect master, the only Connate True Core realm expert in the Li Mountain Sect! Furthermore, there were two juniors from the Chu family that reached the Connate False Core realm. His son was filial and actively sought treasures to keep his father in good health. It was likely that he could live to 150 years.


    Due to his son, the elderly master of the Chu family enjoyed a high status.


    He reveled in fun daily by reading literature, writing calligraphy, or listening to songs.


    "You sang really well."


    Old Master Chu was swaying his head as he gently rapped his fingers to a beat. He was listening to a young girl singing beyond the curtains.


    But at the instant Qin Yun''s Dao domain swept through Li Mountain City¡ª


    The songstress naturally continued singing.


    After all, with Qin Yun''s present realm, his Dao domain was something even the average immortal could not detect.


    However, Old Master Chu''s lightly rapping fingers came to a slight pause. But immediately following that, as though he did not notice anything, he continued tapping to the music''s rhythm.


    Old Master Chu''s expression remained the same but he was slightly shocked. "Oh? Another Essence Soul has passed through my Li Mountain City? However, the power of his Dao domain is not inferior to mine! From the looks of it, he must be a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm existence. And there are not many in this Great Chang world that have reached that realm."


    "Whatever. He''s probably just passing through! Over the past ten thousand years, I have occasionally encountered powerful immortals passing through my city. It''s likely he will leave soon."


    Old Master Chu continued enjoying the music until it was done. Then he shouted, "Nice, well sang. Tip her!"


    "Yes, Old Master." A person outside immediately tipped the young songstress.

 343 Old Master Chu

    Chapter 343: Old Master Chu


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The young songstress left after collecting her tip.


    As for Old Master Chu, he stood up and began wandering around his manor with a smile. An old servant followed behind him. As the Chu family was a large family clan with three Connate cultivators, its manor occupied a huge plot of land.


    "Young Master, I''m sorry! I won''t do it again!" A barefooted female slave was running away in horror. Her clothes were tattered and there were signs of damage on her face and clothes, stains of what appeared to be bloody whip lashings.


    "You still dare to run? The faster you run, the worse you will die!"


    A colorful-robed youth was running behind her while brandishing a whip angrily.


    "What''s happening?" When Old Master Chu heard the female slave''s scream, he could not help but frown.


    "The eldest son of the Third Concubine, Young Master Meilun, is teaching his servant a lesson," said the old servant behind him.


    "A servant is still a human. How can he act with such impunity?" Old Master Chu walked over to a yard. With that, the old servant immediately shouted first, "Young Master, aren''t you stopping?"


    When the colorful-robed youth heard the shout, he looked up and was given a shock when he saw Old Master Chu. Immediately he reverently knelt down and kowtowed, "Old Master."


    "Ridiculous. Is this how you treat your servants? How can you act this way?" Old Master Chu bellowed. "Ground him and make him reflect on his actions for three days. Old Zhong, arrange for someone to treat this lass."


    "Yes." The colorful-robed youth listened obediently and did not dare refute.


    "I''ll see to it," replied the old servant respectfully.


    The female slave knelt down too and said gratefully, "Thank you, Old Master."


    Soon, the female slave was taken away by the other servants. Old Master Chu also left with his old servant.


    Only then did the colorful-robed youth stand up as he grumbled. "Here I am on my own ground beating my slave. Yet, Old Master still wants to meddle in my affairs! Seriously¡­ The Chu family is so huge, why must he wander around? He goes wherever he pleases in this manor. By right, each estate can do as they please on their property! Even if he wants to come, he has to at least give word before coming. But Old Master simply goes anywhere he wants. Grandfather is another one. All he does is keep Old Master happy."


    His grandfather was at the Connate True Core realm, and was Li Mountain Sect''s sect master. He was extremely filial and gave Old Master Chu free reign over the premises¡­ Naturally, no one in the manor dared to go against him.


    ¡­


    "Where is it?" Old Master Chu walked randomly through the Chu household. It caused quite a stir in the various estates as everyone within them knelt down when they saw him.


    "I can sense its attraction towards me. I am certain that it is hidden within five hundred meters of this area." Old Master Chu knitted his brows as he narrowed his eyes while looking casually everywhere. "It''s been more than ten thousand years. I have thought of every method possible! Deep probing with a Dao domain and a carpet search using Dharmic powers have been done. I''ve even flattened several kilometers around this area. I even dug up all the mud, reducing everything to powder! No matter what method I use, nothing changes according to what I can sense. It still hides within five hundred meters."


    "Over the past ten thousand years, I have used all sorts of statuses to be able to keep living here."


    "I can constantly sense it but I just can''t find it."


    "That silly nine-headed bird came to the Great Chang world. Not only did it fail to gain any benefits, it even lost its life. It also lost its treasures. What a silly fool!" Old Master Chu was resentful.


    As Qin Yun had swept through Li Mountain City with his Dao domain, it prompted Old Master Chu to walk through the manor and carefully observe with only his eyes. He did not use any special methods. He only used his Dharmic powers once every several years. He usually kept up his facade.


    ******


    After Qin Yun left the restaurant, he opened his Eye of Lightning and walked along the streets.


    At this realm, no one could see or discover him despite him walking plainly on the streets.


    "Using this spot as a starting point, I''ll sweep the region area by area until I''ve searched the entire Li Mountain City! If Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode really is in the city, I might make some discoveries," thought Qin Yun. Although a carpet search was tedious, it was a very effective method. This method had worked several times over the past fifteen years.


    Of course, he only dared to conduct a carpet search only after he determined that the abode was located around Li Mountain City.


    After all, he could only afford to take the time if the area was small.


    But even so, Qin Yun would probably take five to six days to search through a small provincial city like Li Mountain City.


    Hum!


    While observing through the Eye of Lightning, Qin Yun could see the karma, merits, sins, treasure halos, light cast from providence, lifespans, auras of everyone¡­ All sorts of things could be observed and at times, they could reveal many secrets.


    As he walked, he looked around him.


    Qin Yun''s gaze even passed through walls to look into the people behind them.


    He mainly looked at the people, followed by buildings and items. Then, he would look at the river flows or deep underground.


    "Line up, one by one. Line up!"


    "Remember, this is being given to you by Old Master Chu."


    A congee-giving tent had been set up in front. A few beggars and shabbily-dressed commoners were in line. All of them kept muttering, "Thank you, Old Master Chu."


    "Old Master Chu is infinitely merciful and compassionate."


    "Old Master Chu has boundless merit."


    Qin Yun could not help but nod when he saw this scene.


    Qin Yun always thought highly of people who did good.


    "This Old Master Chu must have been doing good deeds his entire life. He probably has quite a bit of merit. If I get the chance, I should help him and build a beneficial karmic tie," thought Qin Yun. Powerful experts were willing to help people with great merit because it also brought benefits to the them. In a way¡­ gaining the help of an expert was a way for a person with great merit to be repaid for his good deeds.


    Hum!


    Qin Yun turned around and looked in the direction of the Chu family.


    Using the Eye of Lightning, he rapidly penetrated the obstruction of many buildings. He swept through the people in the manor in search of ''Old Master Chu.''


    He was originally rather impressed and wanted to see how much merit Old Master Chu had accrued but his expression changed into one of shock when he finally saw him.


    "This¡­" Qin Yun found it unbelievable.


    From what he saw, not only did Old Master Chu not have any merit on him, there was even a sliver of heinous aura on him. But of course, it was not terribly dense. This was not enough to alarm Qin Yun since there were always people that appeared good on the surface but were pure evil in secret.


    "Who is he?" Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning stared right at Old Master Chu.


    The chuckling Old Master Chu did not even appear to be at the Connate realm.


    However, his aura was extremely terrifying!


    There was a horrifying beast covered in black auras. It entrenched itself in the Chu household and its eyes were blood red. Its aura was even concealed by gray mist, so that only a tiny portion was revealed. Old Master Chu''s methods of converging his aura were clearly brilliant. The average Essence Soul realm expert might not even realize anything was wrong with him when standing in front of him! However, as one of the top three divine powers in the Great Chang world, the Eye of Lightning was able to see through everything, considering how it could influence the lightning tribulations of the Heavenly Punishments¡­


    No matter how much he converged his terrifying bestial aura, the Eye saw him plainly.


    Qin Yun was alarmed even though he had only observed a portion of the terrifying bestial aura!


    There was also a bit of treasure halo that was partially concealed by the gray mist. Only parts of it were revealed.


    "What origins does he have?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "My Eye of Lightning is only able to see a partial truth! Just looking at him makes me feel slightly threatened."


    "His strength is probably already at the peak of the Essence Soul realm," surmised Qin Yun.


    "The number of existences at this level is extremely small in this world. And all of them are famous. Just one of them is enough to establish a lineage similar to the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons," thought Qin Yun with a frown. "But this Old Master Chu is extremely mysterious. Even I did not know of his existence with my present status. It''s very abnormal."


    His present status was already something of note.


    He was one of the Elders of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. He had a good relationship with the imperial government, the three Daoist sacred lands, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, the Four Seas Dragon race, Skydemon Palace, and many other factions. Other than new Essence Souls in this world, he should have known all of them. As for a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm? It was even more unlikely that they would be a mystery to him.


    However, he did not know Old Master Chu. He had never heard of him!


    This immediately tugged at Qin Yun''s heart.


    "What are his origins? What are his goals?" Qin Yun had to be meticulous. He flipped his hand and took out the Inspect Heavenly Token.


    "I want a detailed report on the Li Mountain Sect''s Chu family, including every person in the Chu family. And do not let anyone know I''m seeking this information." Qin Yun instructed with a message. The alliance immediately began gathering the intelligence to obey an order from an Elder of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    Qin Yun looked at the mysterious Old Master Chu from afar.


    Qin Yun could determine from Old Master Chu''s aura through the Eye of Lightning that he was likely a very wicked and terrifying person.

 344 Half Year Limi

    Chapter 344: Half Year Limit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun first felt shocked but after some thought he became excited.


    He had caught a big fish!


    For someone with such a heinous aura to constantly conceal his status despite being so strong probably meant a huge conspiracy! Since he had discovered it¡­ it also meant that he had discovered a threat preemptively. It was naturally good for his world to nip potential threats in the bud!


    Old Master Chu was strong in a certain way, but that also meant treasures! Qin Yun was currently in desperate need of treasures!


    "To make me feel threatened at my strength and have such a mysterious origin¡­ He probably has powerful and ancient treasures on him. Furthermore, I did catch a glimpse of his treasure haloes." Qin Yun nodded secretly. "However, now is not the time to vanquish him. I have to understand what he''s conspiring to do by hiding here."


    If Qin Yun went for an all-out attack, it would be very difficult to understand what he was planning even after capturing him alive.


    "I''ll monitor him in secret for awhile first."


    "Such a big fish is worth me spending so much time on him. I''ll give myself half a year." Qin Yun decided on his plans. "During this half year, I''ll monitor Old Master Chu''s every move and see what he is planning. If I can''t figure out after half a year¡­ force comes to fore when the deception wears thin. I''ll vanquish him."


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    Swoosh.


    His Dao domain spread out and enveloped the entirety of Li Mountain City.


    This time, he deliberately avoided the city''s interior!


    Due to the threatening feeling Old Master Chu gave him, Qin Yun knew it was likely that Old Master Chu had sensed him during his earlier Dao domain probe.


    However, Old Master Chu indeed had a very brilliant method of converging his aura! When he probed with his Dao domain the first time, he did not discover anything special about Old Master Chu, leading him to think he was only an ordinary person. It was the Eye of Lightning divine power that found his secret. Therefore, Old Master Chu would likely continue concealing himself! What he observed through his Eye of Lightning proved this point.


    "My present Dao domain will monitor the area outside the City. If he decides to leave, I will immediately be alerted," thought Qin Yun. "It will just be a tough six months as I keep maintaining my Dao domain."


    Prolonged maintenance of his Dao domain meant not a moment''s rest. However, at Qin Yun''s realm, he could handle not sleeping or resting for half a year.


    ¡­


    Although Qin Yun had happened upon a huge catch, his original goal here in Li Mountain City was to seek out Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode. Therefore, he continued casting Eye of Lightning to search the city area by area.


    "Sect Lord, the beauty is inside," a man with monkey features said obsequiously.


    "Good! Take your leave first. I''ll be enjoying myself with the beauty," instructed a stalwart man.


    "Yes." The monkey man immediately took his leave obediently.


    The stalwart man strode forward.


    "A demon with such rich sinful auras. He deserves death!" Qin Yun frowned as he discovered the stalwart man with his Eye of Lightning. Previously, he had discovered a few demons when his Dao domain enveloped Li Mountain City. However, he did not go and kill them straight out. Instead, he would kill them only after confirming that they were fiendish demons¡­ After all, there were good demons too.


    For instance, Qin Yun had a good relationship with Skydemon Palace.


    The stalwart man was a bear demon! He had an extremely dense aura of sin.


    "Whoosh."


    The stalwart man suddenly dissipated silently. Even his clothes and weapons were ground to dust, not leaving even a single drop of blood behind.


    During the past fifteen years of traveling the world, Qin Yun would often vanquish fiendish demons in passing when he discovered them.


    After spending more than five days scouring the city, Qin Yun finally observed the entirety of Li Mountain City with his Eye of Lightning. Unfortunately, Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode continued to elude him. Of course, Qin Yun had also killed five demons and spared three.


    ******


    Following that, Qin Yun bought a mansion in Li Mountain City and took up residence for the next half year.


    He brought his ancient tomes with him and spent his days time reading through them, scouring for clues. He also practiced his calligraphy as a way of cultivating his Sword Dao. However, no matter what he did, he would always pause to take the occasional look at Old Master Chu.


    Finally, a month later.


    "Stay guard here. Do not let anyone enter." Old Master Chu entered a yard in the Chu family manor.


    "Yes." The old servant stood watch by the door.


    Old Master Chu could enter any spot in Chu manor on his strolls but others were prohibited from entering his territory without his permission.


    There was a wing-room in the yard.


    "Creak."


    Old Master Chu pushed the door open and entered. The instant he entered, his face transformed into that of a cold sinister elder. His eyes suffused a dark red glow.


    "What are you going to do?" There was a woman sitting in the room. When she saw the elder enter, she could not help but turn horrified.


    "What do you think I''m doing?" chuckled the elder. His eyes were filled with a terrifying bloodlust.


    The girl immediately said in horror, "Old Master Chu hates any kind of misdeed. As a member of the Chu family, Old Master Chu will not spare you if he learns of this."


    "Our old master is a good person. Unfortunately, he can''t save you," said the elder with a chuckle as he pounced on her.


    "No!" The woman let out a shrill.


    However, there was an array formation set up in the Chu manor. The yard had been isolated so no noise escaped the room.


    An hour later.


    The elder walked out the room happily. And inside the room lay a woman clasping a blanket. She was covered in wounds and she remained motionless in her dazed state.


    "That felt great." The elder smiled as his face changed into that of Old Master Chu.


    "I have always been careful in this world, afraid of being discovered. Holding back my urges sure is hard. Unfortunately, these female human mortals can''t withstand much. If I didn''t need to abate my sins, I would have long killed her." Old Master Chu''s eyes were filled with bloodlust but he returned to his normal demeanor once he came to the yard. He calmly instructed the old servant beside him. "Same old rules. Give the person inside to the servants. Let them share in my joy."


    "Understood," replied the old servant with a smile.


    "Bam!" They heard loud knocks coming from inside.


    Old Master Chu knitted his brows and gestured for the old servant to investigate. The old servant ran in to check before coming out with a rather ugly expression. He whispered, "She committed suicide by slamming herself into a column."


    "What?" Old Master Chu scowled. "People are so afraid of death; yet, she actually committed suicide?"


    Having entrenched himself here covertly all this time, Old Master Chu needed to relieve his urges from time to time.


    However, to abate his sins, he would make use of his servants, letting them enjoy the kidnapped maniacally until she died. That way, the servants would bear most of the karma while he would only receive a tiny burden! As he had done numerous good deeds publicly, and actively abated his wrongdoings, he kept his sinful aura quite low.


    The stronger one was, the better they were at withstanding the tribulations.


    For instance, taking even the most ordinary mortal life had strong implications on karma but even that was still limited.


    Only when it came to people like Qin Yun, a mortal that had truly great merits and the blessings from providence were things different¡­ It meant that the death of a hundred thousand ordinary mortals was inferior to the death of one Qin Yun. This made immortals afraid of provoking him. As for the frail woman, she was ordinary. Even if Old Master Chu had killed her personally, he was strong enough to bear the burden of the karma, much less that of her suicide.


    Although the karma was relatively minor for suicide, the karma incurred was still greater than if his servants killed her!


    Old Master Chu felt rather displeased.


    "Clean it properly." Old Master Chu walked away with a grim expression. "How unlucky."


    All humans sought to live.


    Therefore, it was rather rare for victims of rape to commit suicide immediately.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun could not constantly monitor Old Master Chu all day. Instead, he probed him in intervals.


    And this time, it was already too late when Qin Yun noticed it.


    When the woman committed suicide, her eyes were filled with a determination to die. Qin Yun sighed but did not try to stop her.


    "Unfortunately, I didn''t discover it earlier. If I had, I could have immediately implemented my second plan to save her." Qin Yun sighed secretly as he continued staring at Old Master Chu. Although he burned with pangs of fury, he continued tolerating it. He knew very well that for such a terrifying existence to spend such a long time keeping a low profile, his conspiracy against the Great Chang world could threaten billions of lives.


    As for Old Master Chu, he was feeling extremely unhappy.


    That afternoon, he left the manor with his servant in a carriage.


    "He has finally left the manor after more than a month." Qin Yun watched from afar.

 345 Hero?

    Chapter 345: Hero?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Old Master Chu sat in a carriage, watching people go past through the gap in the curtains. His expression was ashen and his eyes were ice-cold.


    The woman''s suicide vexed him greatly.


    However, he was unaware that, at that moment, Qin Yun was watching him with his Eye of Lightning open in his glabella from a yard a kilometer away. He too was staring coldly.


    Subordinates were either driving the carriage or following on horseback as they passed through the bustling streets of Li Mountain City.


    "Stop!"


    Old Master Chu''s aged voice rang out.


    The carriage rapidly came to a halt.


    "Old Master?" whispered the horse driver outside.


    Old Master Chu gently lifted the curtain of the horse carriage and shot a glance at a poorly-dressed young lady in the distance. Her clothes looked baggy and there were freckles all over her face. She looked rather ugly but in fact, one could tell that she would be rather pretty without the ''freckles.'' The freckles tended to give others a strong sense of aversion.


    The young lady carried a pile of old clothes as she walked quickly with her head lowered.


    Although Old Master Chu had completely converged his aura, his eyes, ears, and nose were keener than those of the average immortal. His eyes were able to clearly see a demonic aura coming from the young lady.


    "And she''s even a young fox demoness? Fox demonesses are all extremely bewitching. They are a lot more interesting than female humans." Old Master Chu''s eyes lit up.


    "Mr. Fu." Old Master Chu spoke out.


    "Yes, Old Master." A man on horseback came forward and inquired with a voice transmission, "Is there something you need?"


    "Do you see that young lady carrying a pile of old clothes?" asked Old Master Chu. "Quickly bring her to my residence. Remember, be careful. Make sure nothing goes wrong."


    "Old Master, don''t you worry." Mr. Fu looked at the young lady and meticulously cast his Dharma spells to inspect her. He could not help but be astonished by what he saw. He immediately said with a voice transmission, "Old Master, that''s a young fox demoness."


    "Aren''t you confident you can capture her alive?" asked Old Master Chu.


    "It will be trivial," said Mr. Fu assuredly.


    "Alright. Get it done. You don''t have to follow me." Old Master Chu then closed the curtain.


    The horse driver continued leading the carriage ahead.


    Mr. Fu dismounted his horse and handed it to a servant behind him. Then he walked leisurely behind as he stalked the young fox demoness.


    "Mr. Fu! Mr. Fu!" He heard someone calling him.


    "Oh?" Mr. Fu turned his head and saw the Chu family''s Young Master Meilun approaching with two subordinates.


    "Young Master Meilun." Mr. Fu was very polite.


    Chu Meilun said with a voice transmission, "Mr. Fu, I saw everything. Who has caught the eye of my old master now?"


    Although Old Master Chu''s ''unique hobby'' was kept confidential, there were servants and Chu family members of higher status who knew of it. However, none of them dared to expose him. This was because anyone that dared to do so would be killed! They might even implicate their close ones! The Chu family was much more intimidating than even the provincial government.


    "It''s that freckled lady carrying the clothes," said Mr. Fu through a voice transmission.


    "Freckles?" Meilun gave her a look and could not help but reveal a look of disgust.


    "Young Master Meilun, that''s because you aren''t seeing it right. The freckles are fake! That is a young fox demoness," said Mr. Fu through a voice transmission. "In terms of charm, fox demonesses are even better than the most renowned courtesans in the brothels. She might be wearing tattered and baggy clothes but if she were to change into a fitted dress and reveal her original looks, you might be rooted to your spot."


    "Fox demoness?" Chu Meilun''s eyes lit up when he heard that as he chuckled through a voice transmission. "Mr. Fu, I have enjoyed many beauties but I have never experienced a fox demoness. Mr. Fu, you know what I mean!"


    Mr. Fu was one of the top three mercenaries of the Chu family.


    Although he followed Old Master Chu usually, it was unknown when Old Master Chu would die from his terribly old age Therefore, Mr. Fu kept up extremely good relationships with the best scions of the younger generation. For example, Chu Meilun had already knocked open the gate of immortality. He was, however, extremely lustful and frequently flirted with or abused women. Some would occasionally lose their lives to his cruelty.


    However, Mr. Fu ignored all of this! What he cared about was having a strong backer in the Chu family as well as gaining benefits for his cultivation.


    "Young Master Meilun, she has been earmarked by Old Master." Mr. Fu frowned slightly. "It might be a little difficult."


    "I''ll use her for two days before you hand her over to him, alright?" Chu Meilun said with a voice transmission. "I need your help on this matter. After all, you do know that I have just knocked open the gate of immortality. I have no confidence in dealing with a fox demoness. Once it''s done, I''ll reward you with a ninth-grade Dharma treasure!"


    Mr. Fu''s eyes lit up the moment he heard that. He nodded slightly. "Alright, then it''s settled. However, it can only be carried out at night. There are too many people watching during the day."


    "Alright. I''ll join you when you do it. Capture her and take her directly to my residence." Chu Meilun was filled with anticipation.


    ¡­


    "This Old Master Chu has eyes on the young fox demoness?" Qin Yun frowned. "I spared the three lesser demons in the city because they did not commit any obvious sins. Especially this young fox demoness, she''s the cleanest of them all!"


    Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning could easily see everything.


    The young fox demoness carried the old clothes all the way to a very dilapidated commoner house.


    "Second Madam, you''re back?"


    "Yea."


    The young fox demoness smiled as she greeted her neighbors before entering her home.


    "The eldest son of the Hu family sure lucked out. A cripple like him actually managed to get a woman. Auntie Li, your son brags so much but he doesn''t have a woman although he''s nearly thirty, right?"


    "Listen to this crappy mouth of yours. How can the Hu family''s eldest son compare to mine? Her face is covered in freckles. I wouldn''t want her even if she was given to us."


    "Wasn''t the Hu family''s eldest son a hero in the past? As a disciple of the Li Mountain Sect, he apparently knocked open the gate of immortality and killed more than one fiendish demon in his time. Back then, he saved many people by slaying fiendish demons. Unfortunately, he lost his arm during a battle with the fiendish demons. It was said that his dantian was maimed and he could no longer engage in Qi Refinement for cultivation, becoming a cripple."


    "Yes, he was indeed deserving of being called a hero. But so what? That doesn''t put food in your stomach!"


    "True, it''s best to not be a hero!"


    The women discussed.


    Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning saw this scene and heard everything they said.


    "Don''t be a hero?" Qin Yun muttered softly.


    He recalled how his pregnant wife had been abducted. If his wife had given birth to their daughter, his daughter was probably a teenager by now.


    "Xiaoxiao¡­"


    Qin Yun held back the intense worry and longing for his wife.


    He had obtained a detailed report about the various disciples of the Li Mountain Sect from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance. It was a second-tier sect and there were fewer than thirty disciples. One of them was Hu Si.


    Hu Si was fearless! He abhorred evil! He always charged headlong into battle when dealing with fiendish demons. He was one of the best disciples of the Li Mountain Sect''s younger generation. However, despite being extremely powerful, he was inflicted with heavy injuries because he was not careful while fighting fiendish demons. He lost his arm and had his dantian maimed, becoming a cripple! And as he abhorred evil, he had offended the affluent figures of Li Mountain City. He was poisoned by them in retaliation. Although he did not die, his condition turned worse. His lifestyle was now much worse than most people''s. It was as though he was a swine.


    He led a life like a swine!


    His own father had died of hunger due to a lack of food during the cold winter.


    The Chu family, with its unique position, gave Hu Si the job of ''delivering timber.'' However, due to his poor physical condition, he could not deliver much timber. He led quite an abject life.


    "Don''t be a hero?" Qin Yun shook his head. As he had spent time in the border''s battlefield during his youth, Qin Yun hated to see heroes bleed and tear.


    ¡­


    About an hour after the young fox demoness returned home, Qin Yun came to their door and gently knocked on it.


    "Creak." The door opened. It was a bearded man with a missing arm. He looked at Qin Yun perplexed and asked, "You are?"


    "My surname is Qin. Are you Hero Hu Si?" said Qin Yun with a smile.


    The man immediately said, "Please, don''t call me that. I don''t deserve it. Mr. Qin, please come on in."


    Qin Yun looked at the man and felt the fear in him. He could not help but sigh. "He was a cultivator that reached the eleventh stage of Qi Refinement back then. He was on the crest of success but in just a few years, he becomes horrified and uneasy when I address him as a hero¡­ He truly has lost all his ambition. That''s right. Relatives are distancing themselves from him and he is mocked by others. Even his parents are starving, so much so that his father starved to death. No matter how heroic one is, their ambition would probably be worn away under such circumstances."


    Qin Yun knew what Hu Si had experienced and felt greater empathy for him.


    He did not wish to see a hero end up like this.


    "That young fox demoness also entered the Hu family a year ago," thought Qin Yun. "She washes clothes to add to the household income but they barely get by. It''s unfortunate that this young fox demoness has been targeted."


    "Please, have a seat. Here, have some hot tea." Hu Si quickly poured Qin Yun tea.


    Qin Yun sat down and looked at the tiny yard that was only a few strides wide. The stone stools and table took up nearly half the yard. He said, "Brother Hu Si, I took up residence in Li Mountain City and am lacking help. If you are willing to watch my mansion and clean it, I''m willing to pay you five taels of silver every month."


    He happened to be staying in Li Mountain City for about half a year.


    He could also take the opportunity to watch over Hu Si before deciding how he could help.


    Hu Si was alarmed.


    Five taels of silver?


    He might not have thought much of it in the past but he was now in desperate need of it! After all, his wife barely earned two taels of silver a month from washing clothes. He earned less than his wife!


    "No, I can''t. Mr. Qin, I appreciate your kindness. If I were to work for you, I might only bring you harm," said Hu Si immediately. At that moment, he still was unaware that a huge opportunity had arrived in front of him.

 346 Fox Demoness

    Chapter 346: Fox Demoness


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Bring me harm?" Qin Yun appeared surprised.


    However, he secretly gave his approbation. Qin Yun was very impressed with the various deeds Hu Si had done according to the intelligence he received! However, he wanted to get a feel for his character up close.


    Five taels of silver a month was very attractive to the present Hu Si; however, he rejected it without hesitation. He was unwilling to implicate a stranger.


    "Mr. Qin, you can easily learn that back when I fought fiendish demons, my dantian was maimed and I lost my arm. However, I did manage to knock open the gate of immortality in the past, after all. Logically speaking, I should still be physically strong even with my dantian maimed. I should be able to feed my family through labor," said Hu Si as he shook his head. "Unfortunately, my present strength is incomparable to even that of a commoner''s. Why you might ask? It''s because I was secretly sabotaged by others."


    "I was still a Li Mountain Sect disciple, after all. Although I was crippled, the Li Mountain Sect would still investigate carefully if I were killed. Therefore, they did not dare kill me. Or perhaps, they did not wish to kill me¡­ They would rather me lead a wretched life." Hu Si spoke very calmly. He did not show any anger. Perhaps all his anger had been exhausted.


    "Back then, I showed off my abilities to their full extent and abhorred evil. Indeed, I unintentionally offended my fellow disciples. Or I might have rubbed some factions in Li Mountain City the wrong way. I acted so recklessly back then. Now, I''m just a slightly special ant for them to step on." Hu Si shook his head.


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Then, have you never thought of leaving Li Mountain City?"


    "Leave?"


    Hu Si shook his head. "All I wish is to lead a peaceful life and be filial to my elderly mother. In this city, I can be there at my elderly mother''s funeral when she passes away. This is the Li Mountain Sect''s territory after all. They can''t act too brazenly here. If I were to leave Li Mountain City¡­ my death would be certain in the rural wild. Perhaps my corpse might be eaten by wild beasts. I can''t die now. I still have my elderly mother and wife."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "I understand," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, if your enemies are only of that level, I believe I can still deal with them."


    Hu Si looked at Qin Yun in astonishment.


    Qin Yun drew the sword by his waist. It was, in fact, a very ordinary mortal sword. It was not even a Dharma artifact.


    But at that moment, Qin Yun released a terrifying might through the sharp sword.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying Sword Qi did not dissipate and instead remained sturdy. It stifled Hu Si to the point that he could not help but have a change in expression.


    He was once the best disciple of the Li Mountain Sect''s younger generation after all. He was quite knowledgeable too. Furthermore, he had seen the might that Li Mountain Sect sect master produced with his strike. Although the terrifying Sword Qi in front of him was not being released, the sense of suppression was no less than his sect master''s.


    "Senior¡­" Hu Si''s eyes lit up. "Senior, for you to use such a powerful Dharma treasure, your strength is probably no less than that of my Li Mountain Sect''s sect master."


    Little did he know that it was just an ordinary sword.


    "I came to Li Mountain City to cultivate in peace too. I have no need to fear even the entire Li Mountain Sect, much less those enemies you mentioned," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Now, are you still willing to help me watch over my house?"


    "Yes, definitely." Hu Si was so excited that he went to kneel down but he was stopped by Qin Yun.


    "Then, you will stay at my place from now on. Your family can come too. If it''s possible, help me by making meals as well. That will be another five taels of silver a month," said Qin Yun.


    Hu Si burned with excitement. "Thank you, Senior. Thank you!"


    The days ahead were going to be good! He would finally have the money to afford herbs for his elderly mother''s illness. His wife need not work so hard washing clothes daily anymore.


    "Mom! Hui''er! Hui''er!"


    Hu Si immediately went into his small and dark house. After a while, he brought his elderly mother out. The woman with freckles was supporting the elderly mother as they walked out.


    "Senior, this is my mother. And this is my wife," said Hu Si immediately.


    "Greetings, Benefactor. I have heard everything from my son. My son will definitely work diligently for you." The elderly woman''s hair was grizzled and she did not look well.


    "Greetings, Benefactor." The young fox demoness to the side bowed too. However, she felt a little uneasy.


    "I heard from my husband that this cultivator is very strong and doesn''t fear his past enemies. Is such a powerful cultivator¡­ really so kindhearted as to help my husband? Could it be that he''s targeting me?" The young fox demoness was a little worried. "Even my husband does not know that I''m a demoness. If it is revealed, will he despise me?"


    The young fox demoness was filled with worries.


    In order to conceal her identity as a demoness, she had faked being an ordinary ugly woman that fled to Li Mountain City for safety. In her bid to help with the family income, she used one of the only means that were available to the common housewife¡ªdoing laundry for others! She had done so to prevent her identity from being exposed.


    "Brother Hu Si, do you want your entire family to follow me now?" asked Qin Yun.


    "This¡­" Hu Si hesitated for a moment as he looked at his mother and wife.


    "Why not tomorrow?" said Hu Si. "Senior, there''s a lot of things to move if we are moving. Furthermore, this residence is a rental. The clothes that we have washed for others haven''t dried either. They have to be delivered tomorrow. Senior, why don''t I come to your place tomorrow afternoon?"


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment before saying with a nod, "Alright then. Tomorrow it is. I live in the western part of the city, the second mansion on East Sixwave Bridge. There''s a peach tree by the door. I won''t overstay my welcome, goodbye."


    "Senior, let me see you off."


    Hu Si immediately went with Qin Yun to the door.


    As for the young fox demoness, she helped the elderly mother to the door and watched from afar.


    "All will be well in the future. All will be well." The elderly mother''s eyes were filled with happiness.


    However, the young fox demoness was filled with unease.


    "Mom, Hui''er." Hu Si walked back in with a face filled with delight. "Our lives will be better from now on. Hui''er, you don''t have to wash clothes for others anymore."


    The young fox demoness forced a smile.


    ¡­


    Night fell.


    Poor families used lamp oil sparingly. Once it was dark, the Hu household''s surroundings turned pitch black. Few poor households had lit lamps.


    There was only the faint moonlight that scattered down on the impoverished district.


    Sou! Sou!


    Two figures descended like the wind. They were the Chu family''s Mr. Fu and Young Master Meilun.


    "Now that it''s dark, no one will dare walk around randomly," said Mr. Fu with a smile.


    "It''s time to take action." Young Master Meilun was feeling a little anxious.


    "Young Master Meilun, more haste less speed." Mr. Fu chuckled. "We shouldn''t rush when it comes to such matters. Let''s agree on the terms first. You have to give her to me after two days."


    "Don''t worry. When have I ever not kept my word?" said Young Master Meilun. "Furthermore, Old Master will suspect me if there''s too long a delay. I''ll end up in trouble too and I definitely don''t want trouble for myself."


    "Yes, that''s good." Mr. Fu nodded. "I do not wish to have to take the young fox demoness from you by force."


    Sex blinded the eyes of judgment.


    Mr. Fu knew very well that Young Master Meilun was someone who easily got hotheaded. Therefore, he got the unpleasantness out of the way first.


    "Enough, enough. Let''s take action quickly," urged Young Master Meilun.


    "Yes."


    Mr. Fu nodded.


    Following that, he extended his hand as an eight-trigram disk array appeared in his palm.


    "Go!" Mr. Fu waved his hand as the eight-trigram disk array quickly disassembled into eight pieces. They flew in different directions and landed, creating an area around them that spanned a thousand feet. It naturally encompassed many residences, including the Hu household.


    "The array formation has been set up. It can be triggered by a thought," said Mr. Fu with a smile.


    "I''ll be leaving it to you, Mr. Fu." Young Master Meilun said with anticipation.


    Mr. Fu nodded and activated his Dharma Eyes. He instantly saw the young fox demoness''s demonic aura inside the house. Then, he sent a voice transmission.


    "Young Fox Demoness, aren''t you going to come out? Do you want to implicate that crippled trash?" A voice transmission reached the young fox demoness''s ears directly.


    "Oh?"


    The young fox demoness who was sleeping with her husband in the house heard the voice transmission. It made her expression change drastically. "I''ve been discovered? Did that Mr. Qin who came today really have ulterior motives?"


    She first looked at her husband before clenching her teeth. A fierce look flashed in her eyes before she silently left the house.

 347 You Are Overthinking Things

    Chapter 347: You Are Overthinking Things


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside the house.


    Swoosh.


    The young fox demoness landed and glared at the distant Mr. Fu and Young Master Meilun. She coldly snarled, "What do you humans want?"


    "Little Fox Demoness," said Mr. Fu with a smile. "It''s best you surrender and submit to us without a fuss. Otherwise, I will kill that cripple and his mother."


    "Surrender and submit?" The young fox demoness''s eyes turned fervent. "Even if I did, wouldn''t you still bully my husband and make him suffer?"


    Young Master Meilun scoffed. "I only learned today that that fool, Hu Si, actually managed to get a fox demoness as his wife. He sure has luck in love."


    "Submit and surrender." Mr. Fu''s tone turned cold. "If not, don''t blame me for being heartless."


    "Do you think the two of you have what it takes to kill my husband and mother-in-law?" The young fox demoness''s face became covered in a coat of fur as her eyes turned more seductive. Her teeth became much sharper as well. When she opened her mouth, a frost beam flew out, shooting straight at Mr. Fu because he posed the greatest threat to her! Furthermore, she pounced over as she flailed her large bushy tail, causing the surroundings to distort.


    Mr. Fu flicked his sleeve, sending out black beams. A total of twelve black beams interlaced with each other as they clashed with the frost beam that the young fox demoness had produced, sending it tumbling backward. It revealed itself to be a very tiny flying sword.


    Following that, the twelve black beams began attacking the young fox demoness from all angles.


    "Perfect. She''s perfect."


    Young Master Meilun was taken in by the illusions and looked spellbound.


    "Shouldn''t you be waking up?" Mr. Fu rebuked as his voice boomed in Young Master Meilun''s ears. It jolted him awake to the scene in front of him.


    The young fox demoness was in an abject situation after being attacked by the twelve black beams. "Bam!" A black chain struck the young fox demoness''s waist with oppressive force. It slammed her to the ground as she spewed a mouthful of blood that sprayed on the muddy ground. The color drained from her face and her eyes were filled with despair and resentment. It was tough for her to withstand the twelve black beams and eventually, she had failed to block them.


    "This young fox demoness''s illusionary techniques are so powerful that even I fell for it." Young Master Meilun was astonished and furious.


    "In cultivation, tempering your Dao heart is also very important," said Mr. Fu. "Young Master Meilun, you have to focus on that aspect."


    "I understand, Mr. Fu. Quickly seal her strength and hand her over to me," said Young Master Meilun eagerly.


    "Don''t worry. I didn''t even need to use the array formation to deal with this young fox demoness."


    While Mr. Fu controlled the twelve black beams, he also released a rope Dharma treasure that whipped the young fox demoness to the ground.


    The young fox demoness tried to defend herself but against the attacks of the twelve black beams, she very quickly got hit and fell to the ground. The rope was now rapidly coiling around her.


    "No¡ª" The young fox demoness looked at the house behind her. She didn''t even dare to cry out too loudly.


    She was afraid that she would awaken her husband.


    Her crippled husband would only put himself in danger and be of no help.


    "Darling, I long knew that I would one day be exposed in a human city. But I never expected it to be this soon! Goodbye, Darling!"


    "Perhaps you still do not know that I was that young white fox from back then."


    "I really wanted to be with you forever¡­"


    The young fox demoness looked into the house with tears streaming down her eyes.


    But then, Mr. Fu suddenly had a change in expression. "What''s happening?"


    He sensed that his twelve black chain Dharma artifacts were stuck in midair and no longer under his control.


    "Why aren''t you taking action?" Young Master Meilun was puzzled to the side.


    Mr. Fu stared into the distance with a pale expression.


    In the darkness of the night, a man with disheveled hair and a sword by his waist walked over. Although he was a distance away, he closed that distance in just two steps. He looked calmly at Mr. Fu, "Have you ever thought of the retribution that might follow from doing all these sordid deeds for the Chu family?"


    "She''s a demoness! A demoness!" Mr. Fu said immediately.


    "She is a demoness but she''s still cleaner than you." Qin Yun looked at him.


    The young fox demoness watched everything play out in front of her in a daze.


    She was already wallowing in despair.


    But Mr. Qin who had came earlier in the day was actually here?


    "Senior, I only plan on capturing her. I have no plans of killing her," answered Mr. Fu immediately.


    "I already said that, even as a demoness, she is cleaner than you. Look at yourself. A body stained with sin¡­ The black aura around you is so dense that even I can''t stand it." Qin Yun shook his head. "Evil will eventually suffer retribution. If the punishment is not forthcoming, it is because the time has not yet come. However, it''s time for retribution to befall you now that you have met me!"


    "I¡ª"


    Mr. Fu was just about to say something when he dematerialized silently and instantly. He was reduced to dust as he returned to the earth.


    "By returning to the earth, you can replenish it a little," said Qin Yun. With Qin Yun''s knowledge, he knew that the world produced the myriad beings. The more it produced, the more damaged it incurred. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies would even thin sometimes as a result. However, if one were to return to the earth, it was a form of replenishing the world itself.


    The world itself was a huge cycle of Samsara.


    There was creation as well as the final annihilation.


    He extended the world''s lifespan by pulverizing Mr. Fu and returning him to the world.


    "This Mr. Qin is really powerful. That cultivator died from just one look of his?" The young fox demoness was astounded.


    "This¡­" Young Master Meilun''s face turned pale from shock.


    For a cultivator to disintegrate along with his clothes and treasures, with Qin Yun muttering words like ''by returning to the earth, you can replenish it a little,'' it horrified Young Master Meilun even more.


    "Don''t kill me! Don''t kill me!"


    Young Master Meilun said immediately. "I do not have any ill intentions. I only came here to watch. I''m just a passer-by."


    Qin Yun looked at him. Similarly, Young Master Meilun''s sinful aura was extremely thick. He had stained his hands with blood many times.


    "Being lustful is a common human trait," said Qin Yun. "However, you have harmed too many lives because of your lust. I naturally will not spare you."


    "You can''t kill me. My father is Chu Chengyi, an Elder of the Li Mountain Sect. My grandfather is Chu Hongqing, the sect master of the Li Mountain Sect," said Young Master Meilun immediately.


    "So what?" Qin Yun looked at Young Master Meilun as he was disintegrated in his horror, turning to nothing.


    Lust and danger were just two sides of the same coin!


    Since time immemorial, be it heroes or scum, many had lost their lives due to lust.


    The Chu family''s Chu Meilun was just another example.


    ¡­


    A middle-aged man sat cross-legged in a cultivation chamber of the Li Mountain Sect filled with incense fragrance. At the instant Qin Yun killed Chu Meilun, he opened his eyes immediately.


    "The protective Dao talisman on Meilun has shattered?" The middle-aged man was alarmed and furious.


    "Who dares touch my son?"


    "Who dares touch my son in Li Mountain City?"


    He was worried about his son and extremely furious.


    He immediately got up and left the cultivation chamber, rushing straight for the last known location of the protective Dao talisman.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun killed Mr. Fu and Chu Meilun, the young fox demoness looked nervously at Qin Yun.


    "Senior Qin." The young fox demoness looked at Qin Yun. "Thank you for saving me."


    "A young demoness like you sure is gutsy. Not only did you dare enter a human city, you even washed and delivered clothes daily, going out in public every day. Did you really think no human would see through you?" asked Qin Yun.


    The young fox demoness could not help but say, "Senior Qin, you live in the western part of the city, East Sixwave Bridge. How did you know the two had attacked? Senior, have you been secretly watching us all this while?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "Senior Qin, you were willing to help my husband and pay him to watch over your house. You even secretly watched our residence at night and saved me. What is it about my Hu family that caught your eye to make you go through such great efforts?" The young fox demoness stared at Qin Yun. "My husband is a cripple and my mother-in-law is an old woman with terrible health. Are you doing all this for me? I know that many of you humans like to catch us fox demoness as playthings."


    "I know that I can''t resist. I just hope that you will treat my husband and my mother-in-law well¡­" The young fox demoness said with reddened eyes.


    Qin Yun was rendered speechless as he could not help but say, "Little Fox Demoness, you are overthinking things."

 348 Karma Ties

    Chapter 348: Karma Ties


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The young fox demoness was taken aback.


    She was overthinking things?


    "Then, for Senior to go through such painstaking efforts, what do you want if not me?" The young fox demoness could not help but ask.


    "I''m doing it for your husband," said Qin Yun calmly. "Your husband is a hero. A heroic figure should not have such an outcome."


    "Senior¡­"


    The young fox demoness was moved.


    She thought of her husband as a great hero! However, he was presently a hero fallen on hard times. Now, hearing what Mr. Qin had to say, the young fox demoness''s eyes turned red from her emotions. She could tell that Mr. Qin was speaking the truth. He had only done so because he did not want to see a heroic figure end up in such an abject situation.


    That''s right.


    With Mr. Qin''s strength, there was no need for him to deceive a poor family like hers.


    "I''m sorry. I thought so lowly of you previously, Senior." The young fox demoness immediately bowed and looked rather embarrassed.


    "It''s not your fault. The mortal world is filled with evil after all." Qin Yun looked up into the distance. "For instance, the person rushing here now."


    "Rushing here now?" The young fox demoness looked up out of curiosity.


    "Follow me and watch."


    With a thought, a cloud rose beneath their feet, lifting the man and the young fox demoness up into the sky as they flew off.


    ¡­


    In midair, the black-robed man, Chu Chengyi, was rushing over on a cloud. His eyes were filled with killing intent.


    "Here in Li Mountain City, only my Chu family has the authority to bully people. Who dares bully my Chu family?"


    "I want to see who thinks he can attack my son."


    "I hope he is still alive!"


    "If not¡­"


    Chu Chengyi felt anxious and enraged.


    But suddenly, his expression changed. He saw Qin Yun and the young fox demoness flying over on a cloud. The freckles on the young fox demoness''s face were gone. Indeed, she looked quite charming without them.


    "The direction they are coming from is the same general direction of where my son''s protective Dao talisman shattered. He is quite strong and very likely the murderer!" Chu Chengyi controlled his erupting anger instantaneously.


    This was because Cloud Leap Art was no ordinary Dharma spell.


    There were many itinerant cultivators at the Connate False Core realm that could not use Cloud Leap Art!


    "To be able to cast Cloud Leap Art, this man with the companion sword is definitely at least as strong as me. And behind him is a Postnatal realm young fox demoness?" Chu Chengyi instantly opened his Dharma Eyes and determined that the young fox demoness was rather weak. She was only at the Postnatal realm, and so was nothing to worry about.


    "Fellow Daoist, might I ask if you have seen my son, Chu Meilun?" asked Chu Chengyi. "My son is rather famous in the surrounding counties."


    "Yes, I have." Qin Yun nodded. "I just killed him."


    The young fox demoness could not help but steal a glance at Qin Yun.


    Chu Chengyi''s expression changed as he glared at the nonchalant man with the disheveled hair.


    It was apparent that Qin Yun had experienced many vicissitudes in life, changing him from who he was fifteen years ago. His manner of dress and hairstyle had changed, as well as his facial features. Even his disposition had changed. In the past, Qin Yun always had a boundless enthusiasm, what with him being the best sword immortal in history. Even if he was modest and restrained, his Sword Dao repressed his enemies like a radiant sun. But now, Qin Yun had an additional tinge of melancholy and loneliness.


    He missed his wife and was worried for the child in her womb.


    If their daughter had been born, she was probably already in her teenage years.


    Qin Yun had constantly worried for the past fifteen years. He worried that his wife and daughter would no longer be around by the time he gathered the treasures. Just the thought of it could bring him to the brink of insanity.


    With the tremendous changes that occurred within him, only those familiar with him would be able to recognize him.


    Chu Chengyi naturally did not imagine that the person in front of him was the legendary world''s best sword immortal.


    Chu Chengyi narrowed his eyes as various thoughts flashed across his mind. "This is Li Mountain City, a territory of my Li Mountain Sect. My father is the Li Mountain Sect''s sect master. There are many Elders of the Li Mountain Sect that have stepped into the Connate False Core realm. Not only did this murderer not run, he actually came to meet me of his own accord. He even appears fearless. Clearly, he is unafraid of the numerous experts of my Li Mountain Sect. His strength is probably not inferior to my father''s."


    "Furthermore, he noticed me before I even noticed him. He came to meet me. His strength must be greater than mine."


    Chu Chengyi quickly came to a conclusion.


    "Is Meilun really dead?" Chu Chengyi pressed immediately with reddened eyes.


    "Yes, he''s really dead. Why? I''ve killed him. I stand here before you. As his father, do you not care? Aren''t you thinking of revenge?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    Chu Chengyi sighed with reddened eyes. "I obviously care but I''m not surprised. Meilun has no lack of sordid deeds with female commoners, treating their lives as nothing. I wanted to punish him and do what is right but I couldn''t bear to do so. He is my son after all. Today, with you eliminating him, it''s a way of helping me sever a karmic tie to the mortal world."


    "I helped you sever the karmic tie to the mortal world?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "I couldn''t bear to do it. In fact, I should thank you for helping me sever the karma." Chu Chengyi sighed. "Whatever. I shall distance myself from the mortal world and focus on cultivation."


    With that said, he turned around and was about to fly off.


    "Hold on." Qin Yun spoke.


    Chu Chengyi turned and looked at Qin Yun. "Fellow Daoist, is there something else?"


    Suddenly, a third eye opened in Qin Yun''s glabella. The vertical eye contained a terrifying might. It could observe the light from providence, merit, treasure halos, karma, lifespan, sins¡­


    "If I had not seen the rich black sins on you, I might have believed you." Qin Yun said with a faint smile. After he opened the Eye of Lightning, he could see the karma on Chu Chengyi clearly.


    There were karmic ties in every direction and most of them were thin.


    However, one of the karmic ties was connected to Qin Yun. It was as thick as a finger and blood-red in color. Qin Yun could sense the intense killing intent and hatred from that karmic tie.


    When using the Eye of Lightning''s observation, Yi Yun could see various scenes in the blood-red karmic tie. All of them were scenes of Chu Chengyi grinding his teeth.


    "Darn it."


    "How dare you kill my son. There will definitely come a day when I kill you."


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The Chu Chengyis in the karmic ties were all filled with hate and killing intent.


    ¡­


    Hate and gratitude would all turn into karma.


    Chu Chengyi clearly hated Qin Yun to the bone. All he did was fake it well.


    "Fellow Daoist, is that a Heavenly Eye you have?" Chu Chengyi gave a look of astonishment but deep down, he was horrified.


    A third eye at the glabella?


    That was a Heavenly Eye!


    Very few people succeeded in cultivating the Heavenly Eye divine power, one of the six divine powers of the Buddhist sacred land, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery. Anyone that had a Heavenly Eye in the world was someone important.


    "You even claimed to have no resentment against me. Your hatred for me is monstrous. It can''t fool this eye of mine," said Qin Yun.


    "No, I really bear no resentment," said Chu Chengyi immediately.


    Pu!


    Sword Qi penetrated Chu Chengyi''s forehead and plunged into his skull. He widened his eyes in indignation at Qin Yun before he plummeted.


    "Here." Qin Yun beckoned with his hand as Chu Chengyi''s corpse flew to the side.


    "He was killed just like that?" The young fox demoness was even more shocked. "He didn''t cast any Dharma spells or use any Dharma treasures and managed to kill a Connate realm cultivator? Furthermore, he has opened a Heavenly Eye? Who is this Mr. Qin?"


    The treasures on Chu Chengyi''s corpse flew over.


    "Young Fox Demoness, these are for you," said Qin Yun.


    "Thank you, Senior." The young fox demoness accepted them with joy. All she used in the past were Dharma artifacts. She did not have any Dharma treasures on her.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun brought the young fox demoness and Chu Chengyi''s corpse with him and flew above the Li Mountain Sect. With that, he waved his hand.


    Chu Chengyi''s corpse plummeted to the ground and smashed into one of the Li Mountain Sect''s practice grounds. With a boom, the ground quaked.


    "It''s been more than a month and I haven''t managed to discover anything. Perhaps I''ll poke the bushes and see what comes out. Let''s see how Old Master Chu reacts." Qin Yun overlooked the area beneath him. It was a Li Mountain Sect Elder''s corpse as well as one of the Connate experts of the Chu family. How would Old Master Chu react to that?


    "I''ll send you back. Remember not to spread word about what happened today. Do not tell your husband either," said Qin Yun.


    "Don''t worry, Senior. I do not dare tell him that I''m a demoness," said the young fox demoness helplessly. "I don''t even dare give him any silver. I only produce the money that I earn from odd jobs."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    With that, he led the young fox demoness home and left.


    ¡­


    Chu Chengyi''s corpse fell on a practice ground in the Li Mountain Sect. The corpse left a crater in the ground due to the fall. It made quite a stir that attracted the outer-sect disciples on duty to investigate.


    "What happened?"


    "What was that loud noise?"


    The two outer-sect disciples that were closest ran over. Under the illumination of the distant lanterns on the practice ground, they saw a corpse at a glance. It was a Connate cultivator''s corpse after all. It remained intact despite being dropped from the sky.


    "It''s Elder."


    "It''s Elder Chu."


    The duo''s legs turned limp when they saw the sight in front of them.


    "Gong! Gong! Gong!" Soon, gongs sounded, reaching every corner of the sect. The entire Li Mountain Sect stirred quickly as disciples and upper echelons of the sect rushed over. They felt disbelief when they saw Elder Chu Chengyi''s corpse.


    One of the Elders, Chu Chengyi, was dead! And his corpse was left in the sect''s practice grounds?


    This naturally caused a stir throughout the sect. The news also quickly reached the Chu family. When the sect master, Chu Hongqing rushed over, his face could not help but turn livid when he saw what greeted him.

 349 Enchanting Sight in Spring

    Chapter 349: Enchanting Sight in Spring


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Sect Master."


    "Sect Master."


    The two Elders and disciples present greeted their master respectfully. They felt more settled now that he was there.


    Chu Hongqing was indeed a rare figure in the Li Mountain Sect, one not seen in several centuries. He was also the only Connate True Core realm expert in the sect.


    "Yi''er¡­" Chu Hongqing looked at the corpse lying in front of him with a livid expression. His whole body was trembling slightly.


    "Sect Master," whispered an austere man who came forward. "I have studied Elder Yi''s corpse. The fatal wound is that one that bore through his forehead! Even now, there are still remnants of Sword Qi left. The murderer must have controlled a sword-type Dharma treasure to penetrate Elder Yi''s forehead. I shuddered in fear when I tried to sense it in detail. The sword-type Dharma treasure that the murderer used must be very powerful!"


    Chu Hongqing observed carefully with a livid expression.


    Indeed, there was remnant Sword Qi in the corpse''s forehead! The Sword Qi was extremely sharp and terrifying. It made Chu Hongqing shudder.


    "Such pure Sword Qi." Chu Hongqing''s pupils constricted. "It''s a sword immortal! One much stronger than me."


    ¡­


    After interring Elder Yi''s corpse, Sect Master Chu Hongqing rushed back to the Chu family.


    In a hall in the Chu household.


    "Hongqing, I heard about what has happened. As sect master, you should be staying in the sect to preside over the situation, not coming to me." Old Master Chu sat in the main seat. He showed signs of impatience.


    "Father." Chu Hongqing stood on his father''s side. Despite being a sect master and a Connate True Core realm cultivator, he remained extremely reverent towards his father! Others would marvel at how filial Chu Hongqing was being if they saw this scene!


    "Father, Chu Chengyi''s death is naturally trivial to you," said Chu Hongqing immediately. "However, I saw his corpse. The culprit is a sword immortal, one far stronger than me. It might be a peak Connate True Core realm sword immortal or maybe even a Connate Golden Core realm sword immortal. He is a sword immortal stronger than me. Since he is here in Li Mountain City, I naturally have to report it to you."


    "Sword immortal?" Old Master Chu unfurrowed his brows. "Have you investigated the person''s background?"


    "We are still investigating," answered Chu Hongqing. "Father, this person''s strength might surpass our entire Li Mountain Sect. How should we respond?"


    "Take your time and investigate thoroughly. Find out this person''s origins," said Old Master Chu leisurely. "Remember, do not provoke them. The sword immortal lineage¡­ Be it Sword Tower, Yue Chapter, Numinous Treasure Mountain, or any other faction, it is not something our Li Mountain Sect can afford to offend."


    "We are just going to bear with it?" Chu Hongqing felt somewhat indignant.


    He knew how terrifying his ''father'' was.


    Chu Hongqing wished to avenge Chu Chengyi''s death. But with the killer''s strength, he could not do so alone and had to rely on his father.


    "Yes, bear with it." Old Master Chu shot Chu Hongqing a cold glance. "Chu Chengyi''s death can only be blamed on himself. Remember what I once told you. Reduce major issues to minor ones. Do not cause trouble for me. If you do, I do not mind finding another adopted son!"


    "I understand. I will lead the Li Mountain Sect well too. I will definitely reduce the major issues to minor ones. I will not invite trouble for you, Father," replied Chu Hongqing obediently.


    "That''s my good son." Old Master Chu stood up with a smile. "Alright, I''ll continue my sleep. Go busy yourself."


    "Yes." Chu Hongqing took his leave respectfully.


    Old Master Chu looked at his son leave as he frowned and thought to himself, "The sword immortal that killed Chu Chengyi must have been doing a chivalrous act while passing by."


    He had not been discovered despite having entrenched himself in the Great Chang world for more than ten thousand years. One reason was that the Dharmic formulation that converged and concealed his aura was very powerful. Secondly, he made sure to stay in a small provincial city. Even if a Skyimmortal were to pass by, the Skyimmortal would have no reason to open a Heavenly Eye and observe all the mortals in town one by one. Third, he was extremely careful and tolerant. Therefore, he was never discovered while hiding among the countless mortals. Qin Yun had discovered him only because he was conducting a carpet search with his Eye of Lightning across the entire Li Mountain City in order to find Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode.


    ******


    Inside the manor.


    Qin Yun had a vertical eye opened in his glabella. There was lightning within it as it looked at the distant Chu household.


    He had seen the conversation between Old Master Chu and Chu Hongqing in its entirety.


    "Find another adopted son? This Chu Hongqing is his adopted son?" Qin Yun made some guesses. "In name, that Chu Chengyi was Li Mountain Sect''s Elder and a grandson of Old Master Chu! He was murdered and his corpse was thrown on the practice grounds of the Li Mountain Sect! He chose to tolerate such an act of provocation?"


    "His strength makes me feel threatened! For such a terrifying existence to be able to tolerate this much¡­ he must have an important goal."


    "What is he plotting?"


    Qin Yun continued to watch from afar.


    ¡­


    The next afternoon.


    The Hu family came to Qin Yun''s residence.


    "It''s really pretty." The young fox demoness, her face filled with freckles again, looked at her surroundings. The garden was covered in flowers and the scenery was beautiful.


    "Will we be staying here in the future?" Her elderly mother-in-law''s eyes lit up too.


    Hu Si looked at his mother and wife and felt a little better. He whispered, "Mother, Hui''er, we don''t have to lead such hard lives anymore. Hui''er, you do not need to do laundry for so many people anymore either."


    "Yes." The young fox demoness nodded.


    "Brother Hu Si." On the second floor of a building, Qin Yun looked down and called to them with a smile, "Have you got a general feel of this manor?"


    "Yes, I have," replied Hu Si immediately.


    "The three of you will live in the front yard. Choose any rooms you want there," instructed Qin Yun. "If there''s nothing urgent, do not disturb my silence in the backyard. Also, this is the money needed for food and any other expenses. Keep it for now."


    With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand and threw out a bag.


    Hu Si caught it and felt his hand sink. When he opened it, he saw silver fragments in it. There was also a bill for a thousand taels of silver.


    "This is too much." Hu Si could not help but comment.


    "Get me the best alcohol in town," instructed Qin Yun. Although he enjoyed good food in the past, he no longer relished the flavor as much while traveling the world these past fifteen years. Instead, he began to enjoy good alcohol. The occasional tipsy feeling made him relax a little.


    "Yes."


    Hu Si brought his elderly mother and wife to the front yard. They began settling in before preparing dinner.


    ¡­


    "Young Master Meilun and Mr. Fu vanished the same night Elder Yi died. I heard from Young Master Meilun''s servant that it was because of a fox demoness. Back then, they had already discovered where she lived and were planning to capture her at night! The fox demoness had taken human form and married that cripple, Hu Si. She was living with the Hu family."


    "The Hu family has moved."


    "I''ve found them! The Hu family is currently living in the Sixwave Bridge district. They are the housekeepers of a mysterious person."


    "I''ve also done some investigations. None of the people around that region know who the mysterious person is. They don''t even know his name. He is not a local."


    ¡­


    Li Mountain City was a provincial city after all. With the Li Mountain Sect''s abilities, even its secret investigations quickly narrowed the list of suspects down to the mysterious man that was protecting the Hu family.


    "Sect Master, what do we do now?"


    The three Li Mountain Sect Elders looked at Sect Master Chu Hongqing.


    Chu Hongqing held the report in his hand and said coldly, "He killed Yi''er and even arrogantly threw his corpse onto our Li Mountain Sect''s practice grounds! He clearly has sinister intentions and is definitely an enemy!"


    "Yes." The three Elders nodded as well.


    "Unfortunately, he is stronger than me. The sect backing him must be even stronger. My Li Mountain Sect is a second-tier sect after all. We can''t offend him," said Chu Hongqing gloomily. "Bear with it for the time being! Remember, do not provoke that mysterious man under any circumstances. For now, just secure the Li Mountain Sect. With the various array formations we have, we can even defend against a Connate Golden Core."


    "Yes."


    Although they felt humiliated, they did not dare disobey the sect master''s decision.


    ******


    In what seemed like a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had spent three months in Li Mountain City. Old Master Chu continued keeping a low profile.


    "Dao talismans lead to the entrance of cave abodes." Qin Yun sat in a pavilion and was looking at a Dao talisman diagram drawn on a piece of canvass. As it was drawn with ordinary brushes and ink, it only had a little Heaven and Earth spiritual energies contained within. Looking at the Dao talisman diagram, Qin Yun felt somewhat vexed. "I have to master this Dao talisman and find the entrance the cave abode before I have any chance of entering."


    "Although I haven''t studied Dao talismans much, this is a Connate Golden Core level Dao talisman. I can master it in a day."


    "But where is the entrance to the cave abode?"


    "I''ve been here in the Li Mountain City for more than three months. Still, I have yet to discover the conspiracy behind Old Master Chu. Nor have I found Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode." Qin Yun shook his head.


    Suddenly, he heard footsteps from the stairwell.


    "Master." A voice came from outside. "Lunch is ready."


    "Come on in," instructed Qin Yun. "Place it on that desk."


    Hu Si carried a wooden table set in with one hand and placed it to Qin Yun''s side. He placed the dishes, cutlery, and a flask of good alcohol there. He even said with a smile, "Master, this alcohol is a hundred-year-old vintage alcohol of Li Mountain. I just found it. A flask costs five taels of silver."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun was not in a very good mood after reflecting on how empty-handed he was after three months.


    While Hu Si was arranging the cutlery, he happened to catch a glimpse of the Dao talisman drawn on the canvass in front of Qin Yun. He was once a cultivator that had knocked open the gate of immortality. He could not help but be taken aback when he saw it.


    "What? Do you know something about this?" Qin Yun could not help but ask when he noticed that Hu Si was still around.


    "It''s nothing."


    Hu Si shook his head and began to walk out. As he was leaving, he recalled something.


    "That''s right. It''s that Dao talisman." Hu Si stopped and turned back to look at Qin Yun and said immediately, "Master, I do have something to report to you."


    "What is it?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "I once saw a Dao talisman appear in midair. It was that Dao talisman." Hu Si pointed at Qin Yun''s drawing.


    "A Dao talisman that appeared naturally in midair?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Where did you see it?"


    Hu Si said immediately, "When I delivered timber to the Chu family, I was often in their woodshed. It was a bright, sunny day and the sunlight passed through the crevices in the woodshed¡­ illuminating a Dao talisman. It had a beautiful outline. Back then, I watched it in a daze. It only appeared for a few seconds before it vanished. I only saw it once."


    "Did you tell this to anyone?" asked Qin Yun immediately.


    "A Dao talisman that appeared in midair was clearly something extraordinary. I have long lost my allegiance to the Li Mountain Sect so I did not tell anyone," said Hu Si.


    Qin Yun nodded as he turned excited. "Dao talismans lead to the entrance of cave abodes. Could the entrance to Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode be in the Chu family''s woodshed?"


    He had spent three years looking for Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode.


    He never expected that Hu Si would hold the key!


    Speaking of which, he had only helped Hu Si because he was unwilling to see a hero shed blood and tears. He had wanted to interact with him more before deciding how he could help him.


    Who knew that Hu Si would end up helping him even more!


    Was this a result of karma?

 350 Finally Appeared!

    Chapter 350: Finally Appeared!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother Hu Si, take a look." Qin Yun flicked his sleeve.


    A phantom projection appeared in front of them.


    It depicted the entire Chu family manor''s layout. Everything from the pavilions and yards to the trees, landscape, and sculptures was shown. The scale was also extremely precise.


    "The entire Chu family manor''s layout is here." Qin Yun pointed at the phantom in front of him. "Where is the woodshed you mentioned?"


    "Impressive. Truly impressive." Hu Si marveled.


    The Chu family''s manor was massive. Yet every spot was replicated perfectly. Even if one was sent in deliberately to spy, it would be impossible to remember such minute details.


    "Master." Hu Si carefully observed the layout before pointing at an inconspicuous building in a particular corner. "This is the woodshed I mentioned. It is usually filled with a lot of timber."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at the inconspicuous building and beamed. "Follow me now, we will be making a trip there."


    With that said, he grabbed Hu Si''s arm.


    Sou!


    The two instantly tore through the sky and, in nearly a blink of an eye, arrived above the Chu household with a flash.


    "Won''t we be discovered by the Chu family if we are here?" Hu Si looked down worriedly. He could see numerous people inside the Chu household.


    "They wouldn''t see us even if they actually looked up," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Thinking a little deeper about the Chu household''s array formation, it would obviously not be very brilliant since Old Master Chu wanted to conceal his identity. It was actually inferior to most array formations used to protect the families of Connate Golden Core cultivators! It was even more inferior than array formations that protected the lairs of Paramount realm existences like Patriarch Wolf Mountain or Patriarch Crocdragon. After all, they were a Connate True Core realm family clan. If the array formation was too powerful, it would only incur suspicion.


    And from Old Master Chu''s point of view, an array formation was useless. If he were exposed, it was equivalent to failure.


    "This array formation is rather easy to crack." Qin Yun''s realm was naturally higher than it was fifteen years ago. Furthermore, the array formation was sufficiently weak.


    Sou!


    With Hu Si in tow, Qin Yun took one step forward.


    Space seemed to distort as Qin Yun and Hu Si easily penetrated the obstructive power of the Chu family''s array formation, arriving outside the woodshed.


    "We are already inside?" Hu Si was shocked seeing the woodshed. "We passed through the array formation without causing so much as a stir?"


    "I told you, the array formation is too weak," explained Qin Yun.


    "Weak?"


    Hu Si became even more appalled. "A Connate Golden Core cultivator might be able to crack an array formation by force. But to completely disregard an array formation without causing a stir, only a Connate Golden Core array master is capable of doing so. What background does Mr. Qin have?"


    The area around woodshed was rather silent but there were servants walking around not far away. However, none of them could see Qin Yun and Hu Si.


    "Creak."


    They entered by pushing the door open.


    Qin Yun and Hu Si entered the woodshed as the wooden door noiselessly closed.


    "Which part of this woodshed did the Dao talisman appear in?" asked Qin Yun.


    Hu Si looked carefully at the woodshed''s layout and took a few steps. Following that, he placed his palm in midair with great certainty. "The spot where my hand is. This is where I saw the Dao talisman appear back then."


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "Alright, make way for a moment."


    Hu Si immediately stepped aside.


    Qin Yun carefully observed as he extended his right hand, touching the area.


    Hum!


    The surrounding void seemed to ripple like water.


    This was a phenomenon that far exceeded the second Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    "The void moves in a cycle. It changes according to the seasons. Apparently, it will only appear on a fixed day and time every year?" Qin Yun muttered softly before he scoffed. "Thankfully, Immortal Cloudgrace''s realm in the void does not exceed mine. I can forcibly cause the Grotto-heaven to appear." He did not have the time to wait for more than half a year.


    "Immortal Cloudgrace?" Hu Si was baffled.


    Who was that?


    He had never heard of Immortal Cloudgrace before!


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The void''s distortions became more prominent. Layers of space rippled into being before a Dao talisman runic pattern faintly appeared. Behind the runic pattern was the flickering image of a door.


    "There it is!" Qin Yun nodded with a smile. The void returned to normal, as well as the entire woodshed.


    "Brother Hu Si, I''ll send you back first." Qin Yun looked at Hu Si. "In a while, there might be a huge battle. It''s best you stay in the manor."


    "Yes, I''ll follow your every instruction, Master," replied Hu Si honestly.


    ¡­


    Ten minutes later.


    Qin Yun arrived back at the Chu family''s woodshed after taking Hu Si home and doing all the relevant preparations.


    "It''s been fifteen years."


    "I have thought of every possible way to search for treasures so as to quickly rescue Xiaoxiao. I killed the fiendcelestials of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons by tempting them with treasures. After three of them were killed, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons were too wary to give me another chance."


    "As for finding treasures in other worlds? It''s already difficult for me to find treasures in my homeworld. I know nothing about other worlds. Unless a huge opportunity befalls me by chance, it will be very difficult to obtain overly powerful treasures."


    "Although I have obtained some treasures, they are far from comparable to what I found in the Ancient Skydragon Palace. At least, I do not have a second Numinous treasure to this day."


    The Cosmic Bangles were his only Numinous treasure. However, it was an inferior-grade Numinous treasure.


    As for the superior-grade Numinous treasure that Puqu Dragonlord required, that was equivalent to ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures. How long would he take to gather all of that?


    "Immortal Cloudgrace is a predecessor who definitely had a Numinous treasure. His cave abode should be only second to the bountiful harvest I got at the Ancient Skydragon Palace." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he extended his hand and gently tapped.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The void produced numerous ripples, revealing the hidden layer of space with the Dao talisman runic patterns.


    "Come on out." Qin Yun exerted force, causing the hidden space to appear.


    The layer of space was usually hidden. It relied on its unpredictability to conceal itself, appearing plainly only once a year.


    However, Qin Yun''s realm was not inferior to Immortal Cloudgrace''s. He was able to forcibly make it appear.


    "It''s all thanks to Hu Si for letting me know the location of this spatial node. If I were to blindly search, I would not find it even if I was given ten thousand years." Under Qin Yun''s control, the layer of space finally fully revealed itself.


    The layer of space was sealed by a Dao talisman runic mark.


    "Open!"


    Qin Yun had already mastered the Dharmic powers runic patterns. He directly injected his own Dharmic powers to activate it.


    Buzz¡ª


    The Dao talisman lit up as the door behind it slowly opened, revealing a passage that led deep inside.


    "Time to enter." Qin Yun flew in without any hesitation. At the same time, he turned back to check on Old Master Chu''s location before vanishing into the deep passageway.


    ¡­


    Old Master Chu was listening to music while enjoying his tea behind a curtain.


    When Qin Yun opened the cave abode''s entrance by activating the Dao talisman with his Dharmic powers, Old Master Chu''s face instantly flushed red. All the blood in his body boiled.


    Thump! Thump! Thump!


    His heart began to race at an unprecedented level.


    "Hum!" At Old Master Chu''s chest, a golden Heart-Protecting Mirror appeared from his skin. However, it was hidden from plain sight by his clothes.


    Old Master Chu held his chest as a fierce red glimmer flashed in his eyes. He turned his head suddenly in a particular direction. "It has been 13,000 years! I have waited for 13,000 years! I was certain that it was somewhere in the surrounding five hundred meters but failed to find it. Today, however, I feel that its attraction is a hundred or even a thousand times stronger!"


    "Is it finally here?"


    The red glow in Old Master Chu''s eyes began to condense mysterious patterns. Despite the obstruction of the landscape, yard walls, and buildings, he saw through everything, seeing the door to the cave abode that had opened in the woodshed.


    "So it''s a cave abode hidden in the void?" Old Master Chu took a step and instantly traversed five hundred meters. The woodshed''s wooden door dematerialized silently as he appeared outside the cave abode''s entrance.


    "I have waited 13,000 years. The treasures are all mine. No one can steal them from me."


    Old Master Chu''s eyes suffused a red demonic glow. With a step, he directly flew into the deep passageway that led into the cave abode.

 351 Immortal Cloudgraces Treasures

    Chapter 351: Immortal Cloudgrace''s Treasures


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun flew into the deep passageway, which looked booby-trapped with array formations at a glance. However, none of them were activated.


    "I entered by powering the Dao talisman, after all. The Grotto-heaven''s array formations are ignoring me." Qin Yun looked at everything with a look of excitement. "If that mysterious Old Master Chu were to enter, he will likely fall prey to the Grotto-heaven''s repeated assaults."


    It was a Grotto-heaven left behind by an expert.


    If one followed the rules of the Grotto-heaven''s owner, it would naturally be smooth-sailing the entire way.


    If one forced their way in, they would naturally suffer the wrath of the owner''s traps.


    Hum!


    With a thought, Qin Yun released his Dao domain!


    "Boom!"


    The Grotto-heaven''s array formation was extremely suppressive, but Qin Yun''s Dao domain far exceeded what it was fifteen years ago. In terms of realm, he was in no way inferior to a peaked third Firmament Essence Soul realm existence. He could match the Grotto-heaven''s owner, Immortal Cloudgrace! With Immortal Cloudgrace dead, the Grotto-heaven he left behind naturally failed to suppress Qin Yun''s Dao domain.


    "Whoosh!" The Dao domain withstood the suppressive effect in every way as it instantly probed a small region of the cave abode. However, this was rather draining on Qin Yun.


    "I see the treasures." Qin Yun revealed a look of glee. "I have to grab the treasures as quickly as possible. In a while, I''ll have to deal with that Old Master Chu."


    Sou!


    He instantly transformed into a stream of light as he rapidly proceeded forward.


    As his Dao domain had already probed a small portion of the cave abode, he naturally where to go to get the treasures!


    "Boom!" Qin Yun quickly traversed a good distance to reach a palace hall door that had long been shut. From afar, he struck out with his palm, sending Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers flying out. The strike transformed into an extremely oppressive sword flash that inundated the door like a tidal wave. Accompanied by a loud boom, the array formation that sealed the door instantly shattered, causing the door to open forcibly.


    Text manifested inside the hall in midair.


    "I am Cloudgrace, and I have cultivated for thirty-six thousand years. I enjoy visiting the Other Realms and have killed numerous Other Realm experts, obtaining quite a sizable amount of treasures. However, as the saying goes, touch pitch and you shall be defiled. My Essence Soul suffered severe injuries in the Other Realms, and as a result, I lack the strength to withstand the next tribulation. With my days numbered, I have left my cave abode here. Three trials have been left to any successor. The more trials you complete, the more you will receive from me. If the trial-taker passes the final trial, they will gain ownership of the entire cave abode."


    "The beneficiary of my treasures will be bound to me by karma. If you are able to probe the six realms of Samsara, I wish for you to guide my reincarnated self. I still wish to proceed further on this path of cultivation!"


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly when he read the text.


    He long knew that Immortal Cloudgrace enjoyed visiting the Other Realms from the books he read. Who knew that it eventually caused him to lose his life?


    "Guide his reincarnated self? This Immortal Cloudgrace must be mentioning it in passing only. After all, Skyimmortals and Skygods have no right to interfere with Samsara," thought Qin Yun.


    The acquiring of treasures created binding karma! However, Qin Yun did not mind. If he ever became strong enough to influence the six realms of Samsara, it would definitely mean that his strength was far superior to that of his present self. Perhaps he would be at the level of a mighty figure such as a Golden Immortal, Buddha, or an Ancestral Dragon realm dragon. It would then be trivial to guide a reincarnated person. However, could he reach the level of a Golden Immortal or Buddha? Qin Yun did not dare indulge in such thoughts. It was better to focus on each cultivation step as they came.


    "Phew¡­"


    After the text dissipated in midair, another string of text appeared.


    "Entering this hall implies passing the first trial. You are allowed to take the treasures within. The two halls after this will be the next two trials."


    Qin Yun instantly noticed the items placed in the hall.


    There were scrolls, Dharma treasures, Cosmic Bags, books¡­


    Qin Yun could not be bothered to take a second glance.


    He directly raised the Two World Picture and, with a whoosh, all the items in the hall flew into his Two World Picture.


    "I''ll take them all away first. When I have settled down, I can check them one by one." After Qin Yun stored away all the treasures in the hall, he continued releasing his Dao domain, producing a boom. Again, he could only probe a small region of the cave abode; however, it was also the core area of the entire cave abode. It included the halls of the three trials.


    "Three halls and three trials?"


    "So it''s this kind of test?"


    Qin Yun understood immediately when he probed.


    Sou!


    He immediately charged in the direction of the hall''s backdoor.


    The door to the second hall was already open. Qin Yun rushed straight in as the array formations within activated. Instantly, the powers of wind and lightning were activated as they unleashed a relentless assault.


    "Begone!" Qin Yun waved his hand, sending sword flashes to sweep through the area, destroying the array formation within the hall instantly.


    With the Two World Picture, he stored away all the treasures in the second hall. He then proceeded straight to the third hall.


    Immortal Cloudgrace¡­


    He was probably afraid that the first junior to come across his cave abode would be too weak. It seemed inappropriate to not leave any treasures for the junior. But as for giving everything? Immortal Cloudgrace wasn''t willing to do that! Therefore, three trials were designed! A weak person could only maybe pass the first trial and obtain a portion of the treasures. Those that were sufficiently powerful could obtain the most important treasures at the end.


    "The third hall is a fusion of ten massive arrays. It is rather powerful. Perhaps only a peak second Firmament Essence Soul realm existence can withstand it."


    Qin Yun similarly charged into the third hall.


    Boom!


    Black sand, flames, blade mountain, arrows, lightning, frost beams¡­ Ten massive arrays activated at the same time, producing extremely terrifying might. If it were an ordinary cultivator, they would have had to release a Dharma treasure first to probe the area! However, Qin Yun had long understood the underlying powers of the trial. There was naturally no need for him to do any probing.


    "Only a peak second Firmament Essence Soul realm can withstand this. A third Firmament Essence Soul is needed to destroy the array formation. According to the array formation''s mechanism, one has to last for a while before the array formation will cease activity. That would signify that one passes the trial. However, I do not have the time to slowly endure the trial of the ten array formations. Forcibly cracking the arrays is also a way of passing." After Qin Yun charged in, his Intrinsic Flying Sword flashed, quickly and directly destroying many of the array formations! Even if Immortal Cloudgrace was there in person, he might not be Qin Yun''s match, much less an array formation he had left behind as a trial.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword floated beside him.


    Qin Yun''s sights quickly landed on one of the many treasures that were laid out in the hall. It was a golden bell that had very faint patterns on its surface. It looked unfathomable and mysterious.


    "Immortal Cloudgrace''s Numinous treasure, Heart Stirring Bell." Qin Yun revealed a look of delight as he extended his hand to grab it, infusing his Dharmic powers into it.


    "Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding! Dang! Dang!"


    He could hear a faint pleasant sound.


    Through the Heart Stirring Bell''s Numinous treasure runic patterns, Qin Yun could vaguely see the bell gently shaking in the void. It exuded a pleasant sound that spread throughout the area.


    "It can stir the hearts of people," thought Qin Yun. "Nice treasure. This is my second Numinous treasure. Immortal Cloudgrace enjoyed exploring the Other Realms. I wonder if there are any other Numinous treasures."


    "Retrieve."


    With the Two World Picture in hand, he stored away all the treasures in the third hall.


    Standing in the third hall, Qin Yun released his Dao domain and probed the innermost region of the cave abode.


    Now, with the previous two probes, Qin Yun had examined the entire cave abode.


    "Apart from the three inheritance halls that place trials on the juniors, there are still other treasures in the cave abode." Qin Yun smiled. "According to Immortal Cloudgrace, those who pass the third trial would own the entire cave abode."


    Sou!


    Qin Yun left the third hall and continued flying rapidly.


    "Boom!"


    A tumultuous boom sounded faintly from the entrance of the cave abode.


    Qin Yun turned to take a glance. "That Old Master Chu is here, is he? Unfortunately, he didn''t activate the Dao talisman to gain entry. He''s going to suffer the full wrath of the cave abode''s array formations."


    Following that, Qin Yun continued his flight.


    Soon, he arrived above a huge, empty land. It spanned more than five kilometers and was rather expansive. However, corpses peppered the land.


    The corpses were of varying sizes and shapes!


    For example, there were two-headed giants, horses covered in golden scales, translucent beasts that bore a striking resemblance to flood dragons¡­ From their auras, the weakest was at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Some of the auras emitted by the larger corpses were in no way inferior to the Other Realm Skyfiend that Qin Yun had encountered in the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    "So many corpses of Other Realm experts? How did Immortal Cloudgrace get these?" Qin Yun felt somewhat astounded when he saw the corpses.

 352 Grand Magus Corpse?

    Chapter 352: Grand Magus Corpse?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Bodies that are extremely powerful or contain special bloodlines have many uses." Qin Yun gazed at all the corpses beneath him. "However, these corpses appear to have very ordinary bloodlines. Nor have they cultivated their bodies to any special level. Their value is only ordinary. The way I would typically deal with them would be to grind them to nothingness and let them return to the land."


    "Why would Immortal Cloudgrace place all of them here?"


    "Is there something special about these corpses that I cannot deduce?"


    "Or was it some weird hobby of his? Perhaps he did it as a way to showcase his spoils of war?"


    Qin Yun made some guesses.


    There were many people who enjoyed collecting spoils of war! The enemy''s corpse was proof of their conquest!


    "Immortal Cloudgrace was only at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm! It would be impossible for him to kill so many powerful Other Realm experts, not to mention this corpse that seems to be a Skygod or Skyfiend," thought Qin Yun. "I''ll guess that it''s a special hobby."


    "With such strength, he cultivated for tens of thousands of years but chose not to spend time guiding disciples or establishing a sect. Instead, he enjoyed adventuring in the Other Realms. He even liked to collect the corpses of races from Other Realms?" Qin Yun pondered over it. With such a strange hobby, Immortal Cloudgrace''s character was indeed quite unique.


    He took a stride and flew to the side of an incomplete but massive corpse. The corpse was humanoid but was about a hundred feet tall. It was ridden with injuries and there were a few large holes in its chest. It also only had one arm left! Its skin appeared to be made of metal as it suffused a yellowish-bronze glow.


    "It doesn''t look like a fiend or god. It also doesn''t resemble the Daoist''s Physical Establishing Sage¡­ A magus? The legendary Grand Magus?" Qin Yun muttered softly.


    Qin Yun had been gathering intelligence over the past fifteen years. He had also learned a lot from the reincarnated immortal, Hong Lingtong. He naturally had gained a span of unique knowledge.


    He knew that someone from the magus lineage would gain the rank of Grand Magus when they attained the level of a Skygod or Skyimmortal.


    With a Grand Magus presiding over the magus lineage, the lineage would prosper.


    In Qin Yun''s homeworld, the magus lineage had Grand Magi in ancient times when it thrived. There were also different schools of thought when it came to Grand Magi. There were those that were adept in Gu arts, hex arts, or array formations. There were also others that tempered their bodies for combat.


    And the corpse in front of Qin Yun looked like a Grand Magus that was adept in combat.


    "Boom!"


    There was a faint rumble coming from far away.


    Qin Yun turned to take a look. "That Old Master Chu is constantly forcing his way in. It''s as though nothing can stop him. Yes, I should store away all the treasures in the final treasure repository of this cave abode quickly."


    Without the time to carefully study the items, he flipped his hand and produced the Two World Picture.


    "Retrieve."


    Under the Two World Picture''s powers, the Other Realm expert corpses flew up and whizzed into the Two World Picture. They shrank as they went in and were fully contained within a few moments.


    "I''ll study them more carefully when I have the time. Perhaps there is a secret I have not discovered." Qin Yun immediately flew off towards the hall that kept the treasures.


    The treasure repository was a huge building.


    Qin Yun could not help but marvel when he flew in. There were mountains of natural treasures, of every type and variety. There were many things that Qin Yun had never seen or even heard of before. They were likely sourced from the Other Realms.


    The items were arranged neatly.


    Some were completely crimson red in color while others were snow-white. And they all had different types of auras.


    Just looking at them was a joy!


    "This Immortal Cloudgrace must have been a collector. Not only did he like collecting the corpses of Other Realm experts, he even collected the various natural treasures he obtained from the Other Realms here." Qin Yun smiled. "He could have just left these treasures in a Cosmic Bag for juniors. But no, he had to place them neatly in a treasure repository. Perhaps he would come here and enjoy the sight of them whenever he had nothing better to do."


    Qin Yun traveled the world and had seen what the mortal world had to offer. Some people would hold onto plates of gold bars when they had nothing else. They would count them one by one or count a huge stack of bills again and again.


    Immortal Cloudgrace was not much different from those who liked counting gold bars and bills.


    "I actually do not recognize most of these treasures. I''ll have to seek Ancestral Master Zhang''s help in identifying them. Perhaps there may be some that he needs," thought Qin Yun. Following that, he flipped his hand and took out the Two World Picture.


    "Retrieve!"


    Whoosh! The treasures in the treasure repository flew up and into the Two World Picture. Instantly, they were all stored away.


    At that moment, all the treasures in the cave abode were in Qin Yun''s hands.


    This was also the greatest harvest he had obtained in the past fifteen years!


    ¡­


    "Hmph, there are actually so many array formations." Old Master Chu looked at the thick white fog emanating, as well as a lustrous glow circulating in the white fog in front of him. The red glow in his eyes deepened as he waved his hand.


    His arm expanded rapidly!


    A black skin layer suffused his palm as he struck it out like a small hill.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    He forced out a series of fierce strikes. His Dao domain had long probed and discovered the setup of the array formations. All he needed to do was strike out at the important nodes of the array formation. His huge palms were sweeping through the thick mist without hindrance.


    Boom! The corridor was reduced to smithereens. The palace hall collapsed from the strike as well. The nodes in the array formations were forcibly destroyed and soon, the array formation deactivated. The white fog began dispersing, revealing a ruined palace complex.


    "You have already been dead for years. Yet you still wish to stop me with an array formation? Hmph, all of these can be destroyed by the simple application of strength." Old Master Chu proceeded forward. All sorts of array formations directly attacked him but Old Master Chu left a wake of destruction behind him. Although it took him time, none of the array formations managed to stop him.


    "There are really a lot of array formations. What a hindrance."


    Old Master Chu constantly proceeded forward but he still felt irritated.


    There were dark red chains ahead of him that flailed before they struck at him. Although Old Master Chu struck out with his arms, causing the dark red chains to fly backward under his massive palms'' might, the six chains remained undamaged. They continued their attack.


    "This array formation is somewhat troublesome."


    Old Master Chu frowned as he opened his mouth.


    Boom!


    A glaring red beam spewed out of Old Master Chu''s mouth. It quickly fanned out and became a wave. The red beam flew out with indomitable force, quickly destroying the array formation''s nodes. As the array formation began to collapse, the six dark red chains shattered and dissipated. But the red beams that were spewed from Old Master Chu''s mouth were so strong that even the collapse was pulverized. The rockery and trees were ground to dust. Nothing was spared for about fifteen hundred meters.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun came flying over. He saw the red beams destroy a huge region and looked at Old Master Chu with some astonishment.


    Although the elder looked mortal, the might he revealed left Qin Yun astounded.


    He was truly powerful!


    "Connate Golden Core?"


    Old Master Chu stopped and looked at Qin Yun with a hint of amusement.


    "Boom!"


    Old Master Chu emitted a terrifying aura. It was evil, burning, and oppressive! It spread to a distance that spanned a few kilometers. It naturally came bearing down on Qin Yun as well. Qin Yun judged that Old Master Chu''s might was even more terrifying than the fiendish demon He Qian! Old Master Chu''s body was suffusing a faint red glow! Clearly, he was no longer converging his aura.


    "Which sect or faction is a junior like you from?" Old Master Chu said casually. Clearly, he felt assured of his success.


    "I''m not from any sect or faction." Qin Yun said as he landed.


    Old Master Chu frowned and nodded. "A Golden Core itinerant cultivator like you can actually remain standing firmly in front of my aura instead of kneeling. That''s quite impressive."


    "Might I know what your background is?" asked Qin Yun. "I have never heard of an immortal or fiendcelestial like you."


    "It''s unsurprising that you do not know of me. You are just a mere Connate Golden Core. What could you know? There are many experts in the world that you do not know of."


    Old Master Chu said indifferently, "I''m in a good mood today. I can''t be bothered to squabble with a junior like you, so I''ll give you a chance. Hand over all the treasures you obtained from this cave abode to me. I can let you leave and also give you an opportunity!"

 353 Dreamlike Sword

    Chapter 353: Dreamlike Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. He looked at the distant Old Master Chu and said, "An Essence Soul realm existence like yourself wants to take treasures from me, a mortal Connate Golden Core?"


    "That way of putting it is just too nasty." Old Master Chu smiled as he shook his head. "It is only right for the world''s treasures to be in the hands of the capable. Does a mere Connate Golden Core like you not know his place? Do you really want me to attack?"


    "Aren''t you afraid of karma?" Qin Yun gave a mix look of anger and fright.


    "Haha," Old Master Chu laughed. "Punk, the higher one''s cultivation realm is, the better they are at withstanding the tribulations. Killing you might result in considerable amount of karma but if I just forcibly snatch your treasures, the karma is a lot less than killing you! That bit of karma¡­ is something I can still bear. However, if that were to happen, it''s equivalent to losing all decorum with me. It''s not the best option for you! If you hand over the treasures to me while I''m offering you an opportunity, it will be beneficial to us both."


    Qin Yun fell silent as though he was hesitating.


    "If I take action, you will lose all your treasures. You will also lose the opportunity." Old Master Chu''s expression sank. "Punk, be sure of one thing, you do not want to force my hand."


    Qin Yun clenched his teeth and hesitated.


    "Alright, I''m willing to give them to you." Qin Yun nodded and could not help but ask, "Senior, what kind of expert are you? What''s your name? You can at least tell me that, right?"


    Old Master Chu knitted his brows when he heard that but he smiled and said casually, "My name is Hu Chang. I cultivate in Po Cloud Lake."


    "A demon?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Old Master Chu nodded indifferently.


    "I heard that after Palatial Lord Black Dragon''s death, the Po Cloud Lake''s Nine Demon alliance only has eight Essence Soul realm great demons," said Qin Yun. "There are none by the name of Hu Chang."


    Old Master Chu''s expression changed slightly.


    A mere Connate Golden Core actually knew that much about the Po Cloud Lake''s Nine Demon alliance?


    "All I do is focus on cultivation. Few people know of me," bellowed Old Master Chu with a frown. "Why are you asking so many questions? Quickly hand over your treasures and I will still bestow you with an opportunity."


    "Senior, that''s just too nasty," Qin Yun said angrily. "I''m willing to hand over all my treasures but you deceive me in such a manner? You aren''t even willing to tell me who you are. Aren''t you being just too much of a bully?"


    "Are you handing them over or not? Are you trying to force my hand?" Old Master Chu''s expression sank as his aura surged out oppressively.


    "Since you aren''t even willing to tell me your identity, why should I give you anything? I refuse to believe that you would dare to kill me," said Qin Yun coldly.


    Old Master Chu winced secretly when he saw the situation reach this point. "The effects of killing a Connate Golden Core is extremely great. It is no worse than killing hundreds of commoners. Even if I were to forcibly snatch it from him, the karma still matches dozens of commoners. The limitations of the Heavenly Dao sure are troublesome! There are so many restrictions just for killing some ants!" According to Old Master Chu''s thoughts, getting Qin Yun to willingly initiate the exchange naturally had the smallest karma.


    "Senior, if you only inform me of your identity, allowing me to know who you are, I''d be willing to do the exchange," said Qin Yun. "When the time comes, I''ll naturally offer the treasures to you with both hands."


    "Punk." Old Master Chu nodded and said, "I won''t lie to you. I''m a reincarnated demon immortal. I was reincarnated a few decades ago. Few people in the world know of me."


    Qin Yun felt somewhat disappointed when he heard that.


    Once he exposed his true strength, it would prove difficult to force Old Master Chu to reveal his identity.


    Therefore, he had deliberately acted weak to lure Old Master Chu into giving the answer. Unfortunately¡­ Old Master Chu was too careful!


    "First you claim to be a demon that focuses on seclusive cultivation and the next moment you claim to be a reincarnated demon immortal. It''s all random fabrications and there is not one shred of proof," said Qin Yun with a sigh as he shook his head. "I never expected a Connate Golden Core like me who cannot contact the outside world in this Grotto-heaven to merit such carefulness from you. You are unwilling to reveal yourself at all."


    Old Master Chu''s expression changed slightly as he began to suspect something was amiss. He immediately waved his hands. "How long-winded you are!"


    His palm struck out and expanded abruptly. A membrane of black skin covered his palm as he struck out with it, now in gigantic form, causing the void to distort.


    "Go!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand, shooting out a wisp of misty rain from his fingertip. It streaked across the sky like an endless tidal wave that unleashed surge after surge. Bang! Bang! Bang! The waves struck the gigantic palm incessantly, with each strike stronger than the previous one. It forcibly tore apart the gigantic palm, splattering blood all around.


    This strike was Qin Yun''s newly-created sword art, the Dreamlike Sword''s ''A Thousand Hates.''


    This move was the culmination of Qin Yun''s pining for his wife and his hatred towards fiendish demons.


    "Ah!" The gigantic palm ripped apart as Old Master Chu''s expression changed drastically. His body began to rapidly transform.


    Soon, he became a terrifying behemoth that stood a few thousand feet tall. A red halo lingered around his body as a black fog emanated throughout the surroundings. His red eyes glared at Qin intently as his voice rumbled. "For a sword immortal to have such immense strength, are you that Sword Immortal Qin from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance? It''s said you are the best sword immortal in the world. Indeed, a mortal sword immortal that possesses such impressive strength does surprise me."


    "You gave me a greater surprise. You can hide your aura so well that even my Dao domain did not detect you," said Qin Yun. "Speak, who are you? What motives do you have for hiding in my Great Chang world?"


    "Haha, a dead person like you has no need to know." The behemoth suddenly opened its mouth.


    Boom!


    A blazing red beam shot out with immense oppressive force.


    Qin Yun snorted coldly when he saw this.


    "Whoosh."


    The flying sword that resembled a wisp of misty rain streaked across the sky as a terrifying chill rapidly spread outwards. Even the void froze as visibly white frosty air took form. The burning red light that charged over rapidly froze under the billowing coldness. The frozen red beam was soon reduced to a red liquid that dripped to the ground.


    The surrounding area was covered in a layer of ice. It became extremely cold. Even most Essence Soul realms might freeze to death immediately if they were there.


    The behemoth''s body was covered in a layer of slate. Even the void had been frozen, so the behemoth found the pain unbearable. His reaction time turned slow and he found it exhausting just to move in the void. His speed was only about fifty to sixty percent what it usually was. Sword flashes occasionally grazed past his body, lacerating him with wounds. His blood could not even flow through him as it had frozen.


    It was a frozen world!


    This was the third move of the Dreamlike Sword Qin Yun had created years ago¡ªBright Moon Cold Nights.


    It was a mid-autumn night from six years ago.


    Qin Yun peered at the bright moon alone¡­


    He recalled the night when he kissed his wife, Yi Xiao, for the first time. It was a night with a bright moon that emitted a hazy moonlight. Xiaoxiao was very beautiful.


    And now, he was alone. Although the households in the city were reunited and enjoying themselves, all Qin Yun could do was watch the bright moon and feel his heart turn ice-cold.


    Under the cold moonlight, he created the third move of the Dreamlike Sword, Bright Moon Cold Nights!


    This strike could truly influence space itself. It made space freeze and all items freeze at their very core. It lowered the temperature of the environment to an unimaginably low level.


    "Why is it so powerful? How is a mortal''s sword art so terrifying?" The behemoth was alarmed. He could not help but bellow, "Qin Yun, what sword art is this?"


    "This strike is named Bright Moon Cold Nights. This is my first time using it against an enemy," replied Qin Yun.


    "Bright Moon Cold Nights?" The behemoth sensed the threat from the flying sword art. His reaction time was slowed down and he could only use a portion of his strength. He had been fully suppressed. "If this goes on, I''ll die!"


    "Roar¡ª"


    The terrifying behemoth let out an angry roar.


    The red light around his body intensified.


    His might clearly increased as he pounced straight at Qin Yun.


    "He sure is a handful. Let me try another move then. The fourth move of the Dreamlike Sword¡ªWaning Waxing Moons." With a thought, he used another sword move. It was created three years ago and was his strongest move to date.


    The terrifying frostiness that covered the surroundings vanished.


    However, a sword flash appeared that moved several times faster than before. It reached an unfathomable stage and, with a few whooshes, the flying sword penetrated space, disappearing and appearing in alternation. The terrifying behemoth had been charging towards Qin Yun but when it saw that the flying sword could easily disappear and appear in the void, his eyes could not help but fill with horror. "His control of the void has reached such a state?"


    "Even if I were to burn my blood crystals and risk my life, I would not be able to withstand that. I have to escape!" The behemoth was extremely wise. He knew he was no match for the attack so he decided not to continue the battle. Without any hesitation, he turned around and headed straight for the cave abode''s exit.

 354 Capture

    Chapter 354: Capture


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Sou!"


    The flying sword vanished in midair like a wisp of misty rain before appearing right beside the behemoth. Bam! The behemoth''s long tail crossed the space like a phantom, managing to perfectly block the flying sword. The tail had boundless strength, sending the flying sword sailing backward.


    "Somewhat interesting. I have to avoid that tail as best as I can." Qin Yun furrowed his brows.


    The recoiling flying sword suddenly flashed, tunneling into the void and vanishing. It was already at the behemoth''s abdomen when it appeared again! This was a spot that was unwieldy for a tail to block.


    Rip!


    The flying sword penetrated the behemoth''s abdomen as though slicing through empty space, leaving behind a gruesome wound that nearly split the behemoth''s body in two. Following that, the flying sword flew out from the behemoth''s back, splattering blood across the skies.


    "Oww." The behemoth could not help but cry out in pain. He turned his head to look at Qin Yun as his eyes condensed runic patterns: "Vanquish!"


    A dark-red flame converged in midair, raising the temperature to an extreme level.


    Flames surged at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun extended his hand as the chain wrapped around his wrist flew out in the form of a flying sword, producing a Cyclic Sword Flash that encased his surroundings. Bam! Bam! Bam! Regardless of the ferocity of the flames, the Cyclic Sword Flash remained unperturbed.


    "Qin Yun, don''t take your bullying too far." The behemoth suddenly shrank in size to just tens of feet long. The massive black behemoth was now more of a red beast. His skin and muscles all took on a crystalline, jade-like redness. "This cave abode is the property of my Chu family to begin with. I can ignore you trying to snatch my treasures, but for you to pursue the issue so relentlessly?"


    "Snatch your treasures? This is Senior Cloudgrace''s cave abode. When did it become yours?" Qin Yun scoffed with a voice transmission.


    "They were originally treasures of my race. They eventually landed in your Great Chang world," replied the beast with a voice transmission. "What you have is only equivalent to a single transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. Hand it over to me and I will give you two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. How about it?"


    "It looks like you did come from an Other Realm. Are you here only for the treasures or do you have other goals?" pressed Qin Yun. "What world in your homeworld? Is it related to the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons?"


    "Can''t we just do the trade?" pressed the beast.


    "Why should we? It''s not like you can escape," said Qin Yun calmly.


    "Presumptuous!"


    The beast tried its best to escape while the brief exchange over voice transmissions happened, but he soon gave up on communicating with Qin Yun.


    The flying sword instantly appeared just two feet away from the beast. However, the beast''s tail had now split into six tails. The six tails managed to defend him in an unfathomable manner, hindering the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s momentum.


    "It seems to have weakened after becoming smaller," thought Qin Yun.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword flashed and vanished once again. It was by the beast''s neck when it appeared this time. With a whoosh, it stabbed at the beast''s body. However, the red flesh and skin were extremely robust. Qin Yun''s flying sword was so extremely powerful that it could easily split space itself; yet, it failed to penetrate the beast''s flesh.


    It barely left a foot-long scuff, and the blood froze after a few drops were splattered. The wound healed rapidly.


    "Although his strength has decreased, his body has become a lot more resilient. I can only cause him superficial injuries now. That was my strongest attack." Qin Yun frowned.


    The fourth move, Waning Waxing Moons, was extremely powerful.


    The strike from before had heavily injured the behemoth, frightening him into immediately shrinking. And now, all he received were superficial wounds.


    "Pfft!"


    "Pfft!"


    "Pfft!"


    The flying sword moved at extreme speeds when producing the fourth move. It even created numerous afterimages as though more than ten flying swords were bombarding the beast. The misty rain-like flying sword appeared at different angles around the beast, striking him constantly! The beast could only focus on escaping while flailing his tail wantonly to defend against the attacks. However, he could only block one out of every two or three strikes.


    Under the relentless assault, the beast''s body was instantly covered in numerous wounds. Blood spewed out constantly but the wounds also rapidly healed.


    "Bam!"


    The flying sword decisively struck, deliberately hitting the beast on its head.


    The beast became a lot weaker and even stumbled, but it managed to regain its stability fast enough to charge to the exit with full strength. However, it received a flogging from the flying sword!


    It got flogged, slashed, stabbed, and grazed¡­ All sorts of sword moves were battering it consecutively.


    The beast held his anger and stumbled again and again before getting up to charge forward as best as it could.


    "Qin Yun, you win this time. I''ll leave the treasures with you for the time being. I will take them all back soon, however." The beast''s eyes were filled with rage but he could only endure! Although they were equal in strength, his strength was more balanced with an extremely strong body. Qin Yun might have had a weaker body but his attacks were terrifying! An Intrinsic Flying Sword was indomitable and oppressive! The flying sword moves were even more abstruse.


    "He''s about to escape." Qin Yun watched from behind. "His body is too robust. Perhaps even my Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash would not be of any use against him. Whatever. The Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash needs a year to replenish its Sword Qi. I shouldn''t waste it."


    Qin Yun had no choice but to use his flying sword to deliver a few attacks while in pursuit. Unfortunately, the beast remained unfazed by the attacks.


    "I''m almost out."


    The beast saw the cave abode''s entrance and his eyes could not help but reveal a look of anticipation.


    Although the entrance was sealed, he struck out suddenly with a claw, forcibly cracking it open.


    "Bam!"


    The cave abode''s entrance exploded.


    The beast looked at the splendid world outside, greeted by the Chu Manor that he was extremely familiar with. At the instant he rushed out of the cave abode, he saw a middle-aged man wearing a tall headdress.


    "Daoist Divine Firmament?" The beast''s eyes widened instantly. His mouth contorted and the excitement of escaping the cave abode instantly transformed into horror and despair!


    The battle with Qin Yun could be described as infuriating and humiliating.


    But when he saw Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang, the beast lost his wits.


    "Return! Return!"


    The beast''s body began phasing away in a bid to escape.


    "Are you still hoping to flee in front of me?" Ancestral Master Zhang stood there. Purple lightning manifested as a gigantic palm, grabbing the beast that was beginning to phase away! At the instant he was grabbed, the beast''s strength was sealed. He immediately restored to going back to its black form as it was brought before Ancestral Master Zhang. It fell onto the cloud that Ancestral Master Zhang was standing on.


    He sprawled on the cloud and felt a boundless pressure bind him. There was no way for him to move.


    Ancestral Master Zhang shot him a glance as the beast''s heart turned cold.


    "I''m doomed."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun flew out of the cave abode unhurriedly. When he saw the black beast sprawling obediently on the cloud in front of Ancestral Master Zhang and sensed its lack of bloodlust, Qin Yun secretly marveled. As expected of Ancestral Master Zhang! According to what he knew, the strongest being in the Great Chang world was once the East Sea''s Skydragon. But Ancestral Master Zhang''s present strength was likely not inferior to the East Sea Skydragon''s.


    And without a doubt, with the passage of time, Ancestral Master Zhang would surpass the East Sea Skydragon. He might even become a famous figure in the Three Realms.


    After all, he had been taken in as a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor¡­ He was naturally extraordinary.


    "Thank you, Senior Zhang, for your help," said Qin Yun immediately. "He is indeed rather strong. He might have escaped if it was only me."


    The cave abode was another Grotto-heaven. He would be unable to continue monitoring Old Master Chu once he entered! Although Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode was very important, Old Master Chu was equally important. Before Qin Yun entered the cave abode, he had sent Hu Si back to his residence and contacted Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang. The Divine Firmament Chapter was in the Po Prefecture and was only a few thousand kilometers away. Ancestral Master Zhang arrived very quickly.


    Ancestral Master Zhang had been secretly observing everything.


    Qin Yun only felt he could probe the cave abode with ease after Ancestral Master Zhang arrived! So regardless of how the beast acted, the outcome was already fixed.

 355 Lovers

    Chapter 355: Lovers


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Qin Yun, I saw that battle you fought very clearly," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. He was initially afraid that Qin Yun was no match for the beast, so he had cast his Dharmic powers right into the Grotto-heaven, allowing him to observe everything. "It hasn''t even been twenty years since you stepped into the Dao but you already have strength that matches the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Truly impressive. I wasn''t as fast as you in my time."


    "Senior Zhang, you of all people know that I have actually cultivated for more than a hundred years," said Qin Yun. "And it''s precisely because of the opportunity to dream a hundred years that I was able to step into the Dao and attain my present strength."


    "Who doesn''t have opportunities?" quipped Ancestral Master Zhang. "Continue to cultivate well. It becomes relatively easier to obtain treasures the stronger you are. That fiendish demon abducted your wife but nothing has been heard from him for more than ten years. Clearly, the fiendish demons¡­ are plotting something huge. It does not seem like it will rear its head anytime soon. Therefore, it will be a victory for us if you get Puqu Dragonlord to save your wife before they take action."


    "Do you think any danger will befall my wife?" Qin Yun felt uneasy.


    "You are suffering from anxiety," consoled Ancestral Master Zhang. "Don''t worry. Since that fiendish demon paid such a huge price to abduct your wife, they will absolutely not kill her that easily."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was helpless as well. In fact, he was only guessing that Yi Xiao was likely alive! He had no proof.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang and Human Emperor had chosen to give Qin Yun ''hope,'' allowing him to have astounding motivation! It also prevented his Sword Dao from changing too much because of his change in character.


    "Oh, right."


    Ancestral Master Zhang beckoned his hand as items flew out from the surface of the black beast''s body. It was still sprawled on the cloud like an obedient house cat. There were Cosmic Bags, a golden Heart-Protecting Mirror, and other items. Ancestral Master Zhang first held the Cosmic Bag, opened it, and placed the Heart-Protecting Mirror and other items inside.


    "These are the treasures he carried. Since you discovered him, they belong to you." Ancestral Master Zhang threw the Cosmic Bag at Qin Yun.


    However, Qin Yun rejected it immediately, "He was only captured because of your help, Senior Zhang."


    "That''s enough."


    Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "I''m not short of treasures. Besides, discovering him was the most difficult task! Once discovered, you could have requested any of us¡ªme, East Sea Skydragon, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, or Old Bai¡ªand he would have been easily taken down. Speaking of which¡­ You did a great thing for the Great Chang world by discovering him. We should be the ones rewarding you. Count the treasures on him as your reward. The treasures you found are also not very precious. I''ve looked through them. There''s not a single Numinous treasure! That Heart-Protecting Mirror does seem like the remnant of a Numinous treasure, however."


    Qin Yun nodded and did not speak further.


    He was indeed lacking treasures. They held the key to the lives of his wife and daughter.


    He did not even know if his daughter had been born safely! Were they suffering?


    Qin Yun felt a pain in his heart when he thought of these matters.


    However, he was already accustomed to it after the past fifteen years!


    "I''ll be returning to the Divine Firmament Chapter first to question him properly," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "After I learn more, I''ll send you a message."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded but he could not help but ask, "Senior Zhang, is there any chance of heading to other worlds? It''s been hard to find treasures in our Great Chang world. Perhaps I can make some attempts in the other worlds."


    "Your control over the void is rather formidable at present. I believe you can head to other worlds yourself," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, if you were to head there blindly, you would definitely suppressed by the natives as an outsider. You might even be captured! Secondly, it is difficult to obtain treasures in the Great Chang world but finding Numinous treasures is just as hard in other worlds. You are completely unfamiliar with the place and people there. Without any prior intelligence, it would actually be much more difficult than traveling the Great Chang world. Therefore¡­ unless you happen upon some unique chance, it''s best you stay in the Great Chang world."


    "Will a unique chance really come?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Not for the time being," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Don''t worry. I will inform you once there is a chance."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He had no choice but to wait.


    After all, he had no contacts in the other worlds.


    ¡­


    After Ancestral Master Zhang left with the beast, Qin Yun returned to his residence in Li Mountain City.


    Inside the manor.


    Qin Yun sat alone in a yard. He had a wine flask and two cups sitting in front of him.


    He took out a jade bottle, pulled the stopper and retrieved one pill. It was a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill. He split it naturally into two halves before placing half of it into the cup and the other back into the jade bottle.


    He put away the jade bottle.


    Qin Yun filled both cups to the brim. The half pill naturally dissolved into the wine.


    Qin Yun held one cup and drank silently as he left the cup with the dissolved pill to the side.


    Moments later, Hu Si greeted Qin Yun respectfully when he saw Qin Yun from afar. He was sweeping the floor with a broom in his only hand.


    "Hu Si, come over," shouted Qin Yun.


    Hu Si placed the broom to the side, perplexed. He ran to Qin Yun''s side and asked reverently, "Master, is there something?"


    "By the way, where is your wife?" asked Qin Yun.


    "She''s in the house," answered Hu Si.


    "Tell her to come out," instructed Qin Yun.


    The feeling that something was amiss grew in Hu Si''s heart. However, he shouted loudly for the young fox demoness. Soon, she rushed over from the front yard. She looked at Qin Yun nervously because he knew her true identity.


    "I have been in Li Mountain City for about three months now." Qin Yun looked at the couple and said with a smile, "It was truly fate that brought us together. I''ll be leaving today. Here, Hu Si. Let me offer you a toast."


    "You are leaving?"


    Hu Si turned flustered. Didn''t that mean that his quiet days were over? However, he raised the cup of wine.


    Qin Yun drank his wine while Hu Si drank the wine that had half a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill dissolved into it. Qin Yun smiled at Hu Si after he finished drinking.


    "Oh?" Hu Si''s face instantly flushed red. His blood began boiling as his arm began regrowing at a discernible rate. His channels that had been maimed by poison were rapidly recovering and, most importantly, his dantian was beginning to recover!


    A Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill could even treat a heavily injured Essence Soul immortal.


    Hu Si had only cultivated to the Postnatal Qi Refinement realm. Despite being heavily injured and having lost an arm, half a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill was sufficient to heal him!


    "I¡­" Not only had Hu Si''s dantian recovered, he also recovered his Quintessential Essence Dharmic powers that he used to have. Clearly, the medicinal essence was more than enough. It restored him to the limit his dantian could withstand¡ªhis original eleventh stage Qi Refinement realm.


    "Whoosh."


    Hu Si stood there with two arms once again. His lusterless skin turned a lot fairer and he had rich Dharmic powers circling him. His bearing was clearly different.


    "I''ve recovered? I have recovered?" Hu Si found it unbelievable.


    "Darling." The young fox demoness turned excited seeing the scene. "Your arm has regrown. You¡­"


    "That cup of wine¡­" Hu Si looked at the cup of wine in his hand and then turned to look at the sitting Qin Yun. Immediately, he understood what had happened. He knelt down to thank Qin Yun. "Master, I was a cripple for so long but you saved me. I do not know how I can ever repay my gratitude towards you."


    Hu Si knew very well how difficult it was to treat injuries like the ones he suffered.


    The entire Li Mountain Sect was unable to do a thing, even if they used everything at their disposal. Qin Yun had definitely paid a huge price to save him.


    "We have spent some time together now, and I came to feel that you are more than worth saving. Besides¡­ you helped me find that cave abode. It was a great help to me too," said Qin Yun with a smile. With a thought, he pulled Hu Si up.


    Hu Si was extremely excited.


    How could he not be, considering how he went from a cripple to a cultivator at the eleventh stage of the Qi Refinement realm?


    He looked at his wife joyfully.


    But suddenly, his expression changed. The fox demoness was too excited and let slip a tiny bit of her demonic aura. In fact, she was only a Postnatal lesser demoness. That level of control over her aura was only normal. Hu Si was unable to notice it before because he was a cripple. But now, he immediately noticed it.


    "Hui''er." Hu Si immediately activated his Dharma Eyes, realizing that his wife was a fox demoness.


    The color in the young fox demoness''s face drained when she saw the runic patterns forming in her husband''s eyes.


    "Hui''er, you¡­" Hu Si found it unbelievable.


    "Darling. I-I have been lying to you all this time," said the young fox demoness worriedly. "I''m indeed a demoness, but I have never once thought of harming you. I¡­"


    "Hu Si, you are a human and she is a demon," said Qin Yun.


    Hu Si was taken aback as he bowed at Qin Yun, saying, "Master, I owe you greatly but Hui''er did not despise me even when I was at my poorest. She helped me and has been supplementing my family''s income at our worst. She took care of my mother, and without her my mother would have long died of her illness. Master, I know you are a cultivation expert but please do not separate me and Hui''er."


    The young fox demoness''s eyes welled with tears when she heard that.


    "Don''t separate you?" Qin Yun frowned.


    Hu Si instantly turned nervous as he added, "Hui''er truly loves me and I truly love her."


    "Darling." The young fox demoness grabbed Hu Si''s hand and could not contain her excitement.


    Qin Yun laughed when he saw this.


    Qin Yun was reminded of his loving days with Yi Xiao when he looked at the couple.


    "Since it''s true love, cherish it properly." Qin Yun stood up, waved his hand, threw a book on the table, and walked out. "This is a sword technique I created. If you were to attain sword intent one day, you can find me in Qin Manor of Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance."


    With that said, Qin Yun vanished.


    Hu Si held up the book. On it were the words: ''Mirror Lake Sword Art.'' This was a sword technique that Qin Yun had created over the past few days with Hu Si''s character in mind.


    "Mirror Lake Sword Art?" Hu Si looked up but Qin Yun was long gone.


    "Qin Manor of Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance?" The young fox demoness was alarmed. "Senior Qin is¡­"


    "The world''s best sword immortal. Grand Dominance''s Sword Immortal Qin." Hu Si was excited as well.


    "Senior Qin said to find him in Grand Dominance when you attain sword intent," said the young fox demoness in excitement. "Senior Qin intends to groom you."


    "Yes." Hu Si nodded immediately.


    He looked at the young fox demoness and hugged her with a smile.


    The young fox demoness was taken aback before she leaned closer towards her husband and whispered, "Darling, I was really afraid. Afraid that you wouldn''t want me after discovering that I was a demoness."


    "There are many humans who are eviler than fiendish demons. There are also demons¡­ that are better than humans," whispered Hu Si.


    ¡­


    In midair, Qin Yun looked at Li Mountain City one last time. He smiled when he saw the embracing couple in the yard. Following that, he let out a light sigh before turning around to streak across the sky, departing the area.

 356 Empyrean Lord Divine Armor

    Chapter 356: Empyrean Lord Divine Armor


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun landed beside a quiet lake. The force of his landing sent ripples stirring in the lake.


    "I''ll do it here." Qin Yun surveyed his surroundings. There were no villages in the surrounding five kilometers. He waved his hand and threw out a scroll. It was none other than the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure Two World Picture. After it flew out, it rapidly transformed into the Two World array, covering the surrounding five kilometers. Fog rose within the five-kilometer radius, preventing anyone outside from seeing what happened within.


    With the Two World array''s profundity, even Skygods and Skyimmortals would need to expend a little effort to enter. That would naturally alert Qin Yun.


    "I''ll carefully study the treasures here. Perhaps I might find a pleasant surprise." Qin Yun''s heart thumped with anticipation. With a thought, a large number of items flew out from the cloud, landing on the grass beside the lake.


    This included the corpses of the Other Realm experts.


    Qin Yun looked at an incomplete Grand Magus corpse with eyes full of wonder.


    "Skyfiend, Skygod, Grand Magus¡­ Ancestral Master Zhang is in urgent need of strong corpses like these." Qin Yun knew that Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and Human Emperor didn''t think much of such corpses as they could hardly put them to use. Numinous Treasure Mountain''s Patriarch Bai was willing to buy them but he was only willing to pay half a Numinous treasure for a complete Skyfiend corpse.


    Ancestral Master Zhang offered the best rate. He was willing to purchase a complete Skyfiend corpse for an inferior-grade Numinous treasure.


    "What a pity that it''s incomplete." Qin Yun could not help but shake his head when he looked at the huge holes in the Grand Magus''s chest, the broken arm, and its numerous injuries. "Even if it''s incomplete, it''s probably still worth half a Numinous treasure."


    Qin Yun found nothing else of worth despite carefully probing the Grand Magus corpse.


    It was not surprising. If there were any treasures on the Magus when he died, Immortal Cloudgrave would have stored them elsewhere.


    Qin Yun took out a Cosmic Bag, it was none other than Old Master Chu''s. He opened the bag and similarly, a large number of items poured out and landed on the grass.


    "Boom!"


    There was suddenly a huge stir.


    The golden Heart-Protecting Mirror flew up, and in the distance, a golden chest armor that was lying among Immortal Cloudgrace''s treasures flew over. The armor had a hole in the chest and the Heart-Protecting Mirror automatically socketed itself in the hole. As runic patterns flowed over it, it turned into a complete entity.


    "A treasure set?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Ancestral Master Zhang mentioned that the beast had a Heart-Protecting Mirror that appeared to be a remnant of a Numinous treasure. Could the combination have formed a complete Numinous treasure?"


    "Come."


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind, pulling the golden armor to his side.


    He infused Dharmic powers into it and quickly refined it to be his. Qin Yun then floated up. The golden armor set split into two combat boots and a helm. The pair of boots fit onto Qin Yun''s feet as the main chest armor split apart from the back before wrapping around Qin Yun. The helm gently flew onto his head.


    He was completely covered from head to toe, except his hands.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun frowned. "This is a Numinous treasure armor set. They are separately a helm, chest armor, Heart-Protecting Mirror, a pair of combat boots and a pair of gauntlets, a total of seven parts! I currently have five and am missing a pair of Dharma treasure gauntlets!"


    He could easily determine through the runic patterns flowing in the Numinous treasure armor that the Numinous treasure armor would be complete with a pair of Dharma treasure gauntlets.


    "The Heart-Protecting Mirror was carried by the beast. As for the helm, chest armor and battle boots, they were Immortal Cloudgrace''s," thought Qin Yun. "Could the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure the beast mentioned be the armor''s helm and other parts? That''s right. The helm, chest armor, and combat boots are each equivalent to a first-grade Dharma treasure. The four of them combined are equivalent to a powerful transcendent-grade Dharma treasure."


    "What a pity."


    "It''s incomplete. If I could have the complete Numinous treasure armor, that would be great." Qin Yun commanded with his mind as the armor pieces rapidly flew out and into his Cosmic Bag.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun carefully checked the items.


    Apart from the Heart-Protecting Mirror, the beast also had an Evasion Talisman. It appeared to allow a third Firmament Essence Soul to cast Void Transference once! Although it was a one-time consumable, it could match a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. If it was a treasure that could allow Skyimmortals or Skygods to undergo Void Transference, its value would have been that of a Numinous treasure.


    He spent almost all day checking everything.


    The most precious item was none other than the Heart Stirring Bell. Next were the five remnants of the Numinous treasure armor, then the Grand Magus''s corpse, the Evasion Talisman, etc.


    "Qin Yun." Ancestral Master Zhang contacted Qin Yun.


    "Senior Zhang." Qin Yun acted respectfully in front of the senior''s phantom that appeared in front of him.


    "I have finished questioning the Other Realm beast. It was quite tight-lipped so it took me this long. Quickly come. I have some things to tell you," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    "Alright, I''ll be right there."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    After cutting off the transmission, Qin Yun waved his hand and put away the Two World Picture. The treasures within were stored away as well. Following that, he cast Beam Transformation Art and whooshed towards the Divine Firmament Chapter as a stream of light.


    He was in the Po Prefecture and so was only a few hundred kilometers away from the Divine Firmament Chapter. He arrived within moments.


    The Divine Firmament Chapter was magnificent and stately. It had numerous array formations and clouds lingering around it. There were even lightning bolts flaring over the various mountain peaks.


    As he overlooked the Divine Firmament Chapter, Qin Yun marveled inwardly. As expected of a Daoist sacred land, it looked truly extraordinary!


    "Come to me."


    A voice rang in Qin Yun''s ears. Clouds gathered beneath his feet as purple lightning circulated within them.


    Qin Yun stepped onto the cloud and was rapidly brought into the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    "Oh? There''s an intruder."


    "Who?"


    There were quite a number of people responsible for the Divine Firmament Chapter''s security who noticed him.


    "It''s Qin Yun from Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance."


    "It''s that Sword Immortal Qin Yun."


    "Ancestral Master is summoning him?"


    Seeing Qin Yun fly over on a cloud that contained purple lightning, they realized the situation despite remaining puzzled. None of them dared to stop a person Ancestral Master Zhang summoned.


    ******


    Ancestral Master Zhang was having tea. When he saw Qin Yun land in the yard, he smiled at him. "Here, have a seat."


    "Senior Zhang." Qin Yun went forward and sat down. "How did the questioning go?"


    "That Other Realm beast comes from a world not far from our Great Chu world," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "He was under orders to come to our Great Chang world to complete two missions. The first mission is to obtain detailed information about our world so that preparations to occupy it can be made in the future."


    "Occupy our Great Chang world?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "It''s nothing much," Ancestral Master Zhang said with a smile. "There are numerous Other Realm Fiendcelestials that wish to occupy our world after all. This beast''s world has only sent a scout, so the level of threat is still very low."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Probing our world is something done only in passing. His second mission is the more important one. He was to seek out parts of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "That Other Realm beast said that, thanks to the aid of the Heart-Protecting Mirror, he was certain that four other parts were inside the cave abode. And now, they should be in your hands."

 357 Great Chu World

    Chapter 357: Great Chu World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Empyrean Lord Divine Armor?" Qin Yun took out a Cosmic Bag and opened it. With a thought, the set of golden armor flew out with a whoosh.


    "This Heart-Protecting Mirror was the Other Realm beast''s." Qin Yun pointed at the Heart-Protecting Mirror on the golden armor''s chest plate. "The other pieces, including the helm, main chest armor, and combat boots were already inside Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode. I sensed that it''s missing a pair of Dharma treasure gauntlets after refining them for myself."


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up when he looked at the armor. He gave an approving nod, "It''s a good armor set. It is slightly weaker than Human Emperor''s Earth-shattering Stellar Armor."


    Qin Yun''s heart could not help but race when he heard that.


    That meant it was more valuable than he anticipated! The Earth-shattering Stellar Armor was one of only three superior-grade Numinous treasures in the Great Chang world. If the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor was only slightly weaker, that meant that it was extremely valuable.


    "What grade would the complete Numinous treasure be?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "What grade do you think it will be?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    Qin Yun felt a little uncertain as he replied, "Senior Zhang, the runic patterns on this armor set feels as though they have the same level of profundity as my Cosmic Bangles! By that logic, it should be an inferior-grade Numinous treasure. However¡­ although the entire armor''s profundity is that of an inferior-grade Numinous treasure, it also seems extremely complicated. Just the helm, Heart-Protecting Mirror, main chest armor, combat boots, and the Numinous treasure gauntlets by themselves appear very complicated. If all seven pieces are gathered, it might be even more complicated. From a refinement smithing point of view, it should be a lot more difficult than refining an inferior-grade Numinous treasure."


    "Yes." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "Yes, it''s actually because it''s so complicated that it has many uses."


    "The main function is to protect! This armor protects one from top to bottom without leaving a single weak spot. It''s more powerful than the bodies of Skygods or Skyfiends," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Just this alone makes it more valuable than inferior-grade Numinous treasures. Aside from that, the entire armor will augment the wearer with immense strength! It will strengthen the wearer and allow the wearer to fly even faster."


    "This Empyrean Lord Divine Armor is slightly weaker than the Earth-shattering Stellar Armor but it can still be considered a medial-grade Numinous treasure," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "A medial-grade Numinous treasure?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "How many inferior-grade Numinous treasure is that worth?"


    "Three," replied Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Three inferior-grade Numinous treasures¡­" Qin Yun could not help but feel a strong anticipation build up within him.


    Traveling the world for the past fifteen years taught Qin Yun one thing.


    It was too difficult to obtain a Numinous treasure!


    Not only was strength needed, luck was also needed!


    After all, the Dharma treasure forging ability of people in the ancient world was lacking. Numinous treasures were even rarer back then. Even peak third Firmament Essence Souls used transcendent-grade Dharma treasures most of the time. Later on, as Daoists and Buddhists got better at forging Dharma treasures, the number of Numinous treasures increased. But even so, the Numinous treasures that were truly lost remained few in number!


    The Ancient Skydragon Palace was probably one of the biggest harvests found since ancient times. However, all Qin Yun obtained was a set of Cosmic Bangles from the Other Realm Skyfiend''s corpse!


    Immortal Cloudgrace was considered powerful enough to obtain a Heart Stirring Bell for himself.


    Over the past fifteen years, Qin Yun''s one true, meaningful harvest had been the one from Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode. And that was only the result of him carefully scouring various rare books to determine that Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode was situated in Li Mountain City. In addition, he was lucky enough to have Hu Si inform him of the location the Dao talisman that allowed him to eventually open the cave abode!


    If not for Hu Si''s help, he would be like Old Master Chu, spending years residing in the city. This was because the Dao talisman only appeared once every year and for an extremely short period of time. As such, Old Master Chu never managed to find it.


    Qin Yun only found it with Hu Si''s help!


    This was also karma! Of course there was also the luck that came from the stirring of the light providence shined on him.


    "Senior Zhang," asked Qin Yun immediately. "Where are the missing gauntlets of this Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set?"


    "They are in the Other Realm beast''s homeworld, the Great Chu world," answered Ancestral Master Zhang. "The Great Chu world was a normal world when it first came into being! Later, fiendcelestials infiltrated it and eventually occupied it. They also transformed the environment, making it suitable for fiendcelestial cultivation. It caused the billions of human inhabitants to go extinct, with only a small number managing to acclimate."


    "After a long period of procreation, the present Great Chu world¡­ is mainly split into two factions. One is the demon fiendcelestials who occupy about seventy percent of the world. The rest belongs to the human fiendcelestials who occupy the remaining thirty percent. And these fiendcelestials naturally swear allegiance to one fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord," explained Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Human fiendcelestials?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "It''s not so odd. Just think about the humans that submit themselves to the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "If the entire world is only suitable for the fiendcelestial lineage¡­ The remaining humans have no choice but to cultivate in the fiendcelestial lineage."


    "Among the Three Realms, the fiendcelestials can be said to be a motley variety. Demons, humans, and even dragons can cultivate in the fiendcelestial lineage," explained Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "The Great Chu world has one Skyfiend who investigated and found that at least two pieces of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor were brought to the Great Chang world by Immortal Cloudgrace. Therefore, the Skyfiend sent his subordinate with the Heart-Protecting Mirror to seek it," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The Heart-Protecting Mirror is the core of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor. Through it, you can sense the other pieces. On the other hand, the other pieces cannot sense each other."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was somewhat surprised. "The Heart-Protecting Mirror can sense the other pieces? My Cosmic Bangles are a six-piece set. But if any of them are lost, there''s no way to find them."


    "It''s different," remarked Ancestral Master Zhang. "This Empyrean Lord Divine Armor can provide immense powers to the wearer. It is capable of doing so by using the Heart-Protecting Mirror as its core, powering the entire Divine Armor talisman array. Finally, it will bestow tremendous strength to its wearer. As the core, it can naturally sense the other pieces."


    "What about the gauntlets? Since I have the Heart-Protecting Mirror, I should be able to track down the gauntlets, right?" asked Qin Yun.


    "They are in the hands of two generals serving a human Skyfiend known as Monarch Plumblossom. These two generals each hold a gauntlet," replied Ancestral Master Zhang. "Nearly everyone from the fiendcelestial lineage prefers close combat. And the gauntlets are a part of a medial-grade Numinous treasure after all. Even one is extremely robust and an excellent Dharma treasure for close combat."


    "How strong are the two generals?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "One of them is a peak second Firmament fiendcelestial and the other is a third Firmament fiendcelestial," replied Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    There was a chance!


    "As the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set is split into seven pieces and the Great Chu world only had three, no one paid too much attention to it," continued Ancestral Master Zhang. "Even that Other Realm beast did not know that Immortal Cloudgrace had obtained four pieces before you opened the cave abode."


    "Is there a way to enter the Great Chu world?" asked Qin Yun.


    "You wish to go?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at him.


    "I fully intend to. However, I need to understand more about this Great Chu world first," said Qin Yun. "Senior Zhang, do you think I have a chance of obtaining the pair of gauntlets?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang pondered for a moment. "The Great Chu world is not far from us! Besides, you are only a mortal Connate Golden Core. Sending you there isn''t difficult. Furthermore, with your present realm¡­ you can head there yourself once you determine the Great Chu world''s location."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    With his grasp of the void, it was not difficult to travel as a mortal. The difficult part would be determining the location of the Great Chu world in the vast void.


    "But I have to warn you that this is a world ruled by fiendcelestials," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Enemies are everywhere. Of course, you hold the advantage of being mortal! We can try to mask your aura¡­ allowing you to hide amid the numerous mortals. However, the moment you fight the two generals, you will expose your strength. Once you expose your strength, you will have to kill anyone that discovers you. If you don''t, the Skyfiends of the Great Chu world will pursue you. Just like that Other Realm beast, nothing could be done to him because he hid so well. Once he exposed himself¡­ you immediately got me to help. By the same logic, once you are exposed in the Great Chu world, perhaps Skyfiends will personally attack you."

 358 Making Plans

    Chapter 358: Making Plans


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "By being careful and using your identity as a mortal, I believe you have a fifty percent chance of succeeding," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "But if you were to fail, you must flee as fast as you can. Try your best to escape back to our Great Chang world. If you were to be too slow in your escape, you''d be doomed once the Skyfiends catch up to you!"


    "They would dare to kill a mortal?" asked Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang said, "Different worlds have their own Heavenly Dao. In our Great Chang world, you are naturally protected by the Heavenly Dao! But in the Great Chu world¡­ it is a world already ruled by fiendcelestials. The Heavenly Dao there discriminates against you. Once you expose yourself, allowing the Heavenly Dao to detect you, killing you would not have any negative repercussions. In fact, it would be meritorious to them."


    Qin Yun nodded gently as he said with a frown, "Senior Zhang. The Other Realm beast from before was a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. However, he successfully disguised himself as Old Master Chu in our Great Chang world. Didn''t he manage to completely hide from the heavens and converge his aura? The Heavenly Dao did not discriminate against him in any way," asked Qin Yun.


    "There are indeed Dharmic formulations that allow you to hide from the heavens and conceal your aura." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "You are only a mortal so the Heavenly Dao''s discrimination against you in the Great Chu world would be very low as well! In addition to any Dharmic formulations that conceal your aura and hide you from the heavens, you can disguise very well¡­ just do not release your Golden Core Dharmic powers! As long as the enemy doesn''t do a probe inside your body and notice the purplish-gold Golden Core, you will not be exposed."


    "Even a divine power like the Eye of Lightning can only determine that your aura remains that of a Connate Golden Core, a mortal''s aura."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    If he were to disguise himself, he would definitely do a better job than the Other Realm beast.


    The Other Realm beast¡­


    He was even able to hide from his Dao domain. It was only Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning that discovered the immense aura he possessed!


    As for Qin Yun''s aura? He was a Connate Golden Core to begin with! Therefore, no matter how an enemy spied on him, they would not be able to see through Qin Yun.


    Once he was confirmed to be a mortal, the fiendcelestials would definitely believe that he was a native mortal! They would not dare kill him until they determined Qin Yun''s true identity.


    "By being careful, you will reduce the chance of exposure greatly, up until the moment you attack the fiendcelestials. Your targets are a peak second Firmament and a third Firmament Essence Soul. You''ll definitely have to use your strongest techniques when you kill them," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "That will be when you''re most at risk of exposing yourself. Think carefully about going to the Great Chu world."


    ¡­


    Inside the yard.


    Ancestral Master Zhang drank his tea while Qin Yun pondered for a short moment before asking, "If I do not go, do you have other means of obtaining the remaining pieces of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor?"


    "It''s nearly impossible." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "We are at the level of Skyimmortals or Skygods. It''s impossible for us to open a spatial passageway to head there directly as we are would be rejected by that world! The burden of a spatial passageway is also extremely large. We can only travel arduously through the Other Realm cosmos to eventually reach the Great Chu world. That was how the Other Realm beast arrived in our Great Chang world! But even if we were to reach that world, it is still a world ruled by fiendcelestials. If we were to snatch their treasures, we would easily expose ourselves in battle. Right in the enemy''s territory, with no way to escape directly through a spatial passageway, it''s just too difficult to flee. It''s too dangerous. It''s not worth it for us."


    "In fact, I honestly recommend that you do not go," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "You could always wait to grow stronger. Take another trip to the Ancient Skydragon Palace and you might discover something new."


    Qin Yun shook his head after hearing that. "The Ancient Skydragon Palace only has the ancient Skydragon''s corpse left. There were extremely few Numinous treasures in ancient times. Being able to find one is already pretty good. However, I need ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures to save my wife."


    "Furthermore, it''s been fifteen years¡­ The only great harvest I had was at Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode. I have already combed through all available ancient texts. The most apparent clues pointed to Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode, making it the one I had the greatest confidence in finding. I eventually succeeded because of a bit of luck. There are too few clues about the other treasures. I have already expended every mean at my disposal in the past fifteen years but have failed to find anything. Even if I had another hundred years, I do not have any confidence in finding another treasure trove."


    "Besides, as you know¡­"


    "Most treasures left by experts in the Great Chang world go to their juniors. There are very few lost artifacts! It''s already very rare that I found two. To have the lavish wish of a third treasure trove?" Qin Yun shook his head. "I might as well head to the Great Chu world and risk it. Once I succeed, I would have a medial-grade Numinous treasure."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly.


    "And the longer it takes, the more perilous my wife''s situation will be." Qin Yun was anxious as he said, "I have to save her as soon as possible."


    Ancestral Master Zhang understood Qin Yun''s determination when he looked into his eyes.


    "Alright then. However, before you set off, you need to make adequate preparations," said Ancestral Master Zhang solemnly.


    From Ancestral Master Zhang''s point of view, he did not wish for Qin Yun to take such risks.


    After all, there were enemies everywhere in the other world!


    Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, and the rest wished for Qin Yun to continue living and become stronger for the sake of the Great Chang world. As for the danger Yi Xiao was facing? They did not think too much of it after seeing so much separation caused by life and death.


    However, Qin Yun cared for his wife more than anything!


    Ancestral Master Zhang and company could not stop him from finding her either.


    ******


    After deciding on heading to the Great Chu world, Qin Yun flipped the Two World Picture and released the incomplete Grand Magus corpse.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up immediately when he saw the Grand Magus corpse.


    "Senior, what do you think of this corpse?" asked Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang went forward and studied it carefully. The corpse''s skin had a yellowish-bronze luster to it. With a gentle tap, a wisp of Dharmic powers struck the skin with a gong as though it had struck a bell. Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly. "It''s indeed a Grand Magus. Unfortunately, it has lost an arm and there''s such a huge hole in its chest. There are many wounds as well. Qin Yun, I can only consider this Grand Magus corpse as half an inferior-grade Numinous treasure."


    Qin Yun nodded immediately, "Alright! Then, adding these three treasures¡­"


    With that said, he took out three items.


    They were the Other Realm beast''s Evasion Talisman, the Nine Heavens Cloudrobe he obtained from the Ancient Skydragon Palace, and a transcendent-grade Soul Refining Lock he obtained from the Other Realm Skyfiend.


    "Evasion Talisman, Nine Heavens Cloudrobe, Soul Refining Lock," said Qin Yun. "With these, can I exchange for one inferior-grade Numinous treasure?"


    "Alright." Ancestral Master Zhang smiled with a nod. With a wave of his hand, a halberd suffusing a bloody aura appeared on a stone table. It had an oppressive and potent aura. "This inferior-grade Numinous treasure''s name is Space-shattering Halberd."


    Qin Yun picked it up.


    Now, he had three inferior-grade Numinous treasures¡ªCosmic Bangles, Heart Stirring Bell, and Space-shattering Halberd.


    Trying to amass one superior-grade Numinous treasure was just too difficult.


    "I''ll discuss the matter of you traveling to the Great Chu world with Old Bai, Human Emperor, and Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa. We will come up with a complete plan for you," said Ancestral Master Zhang as he stood up. "We will do what we can to ensure you have the highest chance of returning alive."


    "Thank you, Senior Zhang." Qin Yun stood up immediately.


    "Once your strength improves a little more, you will be at the Skyimmortal level," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "You are very important to the Great Chang world. Therefore, remember, be careful and alert. Stay in my Divine Firmament Chapter for the next few days."


    "Alright," Qin Yun answered immediately.


    Ancestral Master Zhang quickly arranged for Qin Yun''s stay.


    ¡­


    Ancestral Master Zhang discussed the matter with Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and Patriarch Bai. In the Great Chang world, the four of them shared a relatively close relationship. Next was Palatial Lord Skydemon before East Sea Skydemon Palace! This was because the dragons could relocate the moment they realized that something was amiss.


    "Qin Yun wishes to head for the Great Chu world? Brother Zhang, why didn''t you stop him?" asked Human Emperor through a voice transmission.


    "Knowing Qin Yun''s personality, Daoist Divine Firmament was probably unable to stop him," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa.


    "You will know when you see him. There''s no way to stop him!" said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Qin Yun has merit on him. In addition, he is very alert to begin with. He should be able to return alive," said Patriarch Bai.


    "Let''s quickly draw up a plan," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I''m thinking of a Dharmic formulation that hides him from the heavens. Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, prepare to teach that to Qin Yun. As for a Dharmic formulation that conceals and transforms auras¡­ Old Bai, that''s on you! Human Emperor, I''ll leave the means to disguise Qin Yun as one of the fiendcelestial lineages to you. As for the rest, leave it to me. What do you think?"


    "Alright."


    "Sure."


    "It''s decided. We shall meet at my Divine Firmament Chapter three days later."


    Everyone quickly made a decision.


    The four of them were humans. And according to the speed at which Qin Yun was growing, his strength would soon approach theirs. They naturally did their best to help.


    It was only because they were united that humans managed to enjoy the present.

 359 Arriving in the Great Chu World

    Chapter 359: Arriving in the Great Chu World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged, wearing his tall headdress, in a hidden hall. There were eight figures sitting cross-legged around him, each with forbidding auras. One of them was the Other Realm Skyfiend corpse that Qin Yun had discovered in the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    "The ninth one." Ancestral Master Zhang waved his hand as an incomplete Grand Magus corpse appeared in front of him. He frowned slightly, "Unfortunately, it is very damaged. It needs mending. That''s fine, I''ll be able to restore it in three years by spending some treasures."


    "I just need to think of a way to find another three. Then, once the refinement is done, the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array will finally be completed."


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked forward to it.


    "I never expected to obtain two Capital Heaven Godfiends from Qin Yun." Ancestral Master Zhang closed his eyes. Purple lightning sparked around him and the eight Capital Heaven Godfiend corpses, forming a mystical array. A purple bolt of lightning constantly surged into the Grand Magus corpse and began refining it.


    The Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array was very famous even in the Three Realms.


    Some used their blood essence to cultivate it to refine a Godfiend avatar.


    Others used the wraith aura of the world to cultivate it.


    There were also some who cast it together with twelve mighty experts.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang had fused it with a Dharmic formulation that the Dao Ancestor had imparted, as well as his self-created Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, making it so that he could fuse himself into the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array. It was what gave him his present-day capabilities.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was rather touched over the past few days.


    This was because Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, Patriarch Bai, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa were giving him special guidance and helping him to the best of their abilities!


    In a blink of an eye, it was the nineteenth day since Qin Yun obtained the treasures from Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode.


    "You have learned all the various Dharmic formulations you should need. You now know what you need to know to embark on this journey." Ancestral Master Zhang and the other three looked at him. "This is all we can do. The rest depends on you."


    "Qin Yun." Patriarch Bai was a plump elder with a charming smile. He chuckled and said, "You have to remember that enemies are everywhere in the Great Chu world. Therefore, survival is of utmost importance! Hope only exists as long as you survive. You must not be rash. Wait for another opportunity even if you have to give one up! Do not do things forcefully."


    Human Emperor and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa smiled at Qin Yun.


    "Thank you, Seniors," said Qin Yun gratefully.


    These four people were the strongest humans in the Great Chang world. Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa led the Buddhists and was most benevolent. Human Emperor was the strongest existence of the Godfiend lineage. His true body was permanently suppressing the greatest catastrophe of the Great Chang world, giving him boundless merit. Patriarch Bai was the oldest. He had lived since the Dao Ancestor imparted the Dao in ancient times. Ancestral Master Zhang was even more stunning. He had become the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple.


    The four of them¡­ also treated Qin Yun as someone who would one day equal them.


    "Although the Dharmic formulation I cultivated can hide my treasure halos, I have too many treasures. I cannot conceal them completely," said Qin Yun. "Just like my Eye of Lightning was able to see some of the treasure halos coming from the Other Realm beast. I cannot bring too many treasures there with me."


    With that said, Qin Yun took out a Cosmic Bag and handed it to Ancestral Master Zhang. "Senior Zhang, please help me safeguard my Numinous treasures."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and opened it. Inside were the Cosmic Bangles, Heart Stirring Bell, the Space-shattering Halberd, and even pieces of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor. There was also a few rare items.


    "You are leaving all this with me?" Ancestral Master Zhang was astonished. They were the most valuable treasures Qin Yun had.


    "On my trip, I must not benefit those fiendcelestials even if I were to lose my life." Qin Yun chuckled.


    He asked Ancestral Master Zhang to safeguard his most precious treasures.


    Some of his treasures were also left in Qin Manor.


    After all, if he really did fail to return, overly valuable treasures at the Numinous treasure level would only invite trouble for the Qin family.


    There was no worry for him with Ancestral Master Zhang safekeeping them. After all, it was impossible for him to take Qin Yun''s treasures as his own. To take such astounding treasures from a mortal like Qin Yun would incur huge karma! As a Dao Ancestor disciple, there was no way he would ruin his bright future for some treasures.


    "If you do not return, what should I do with these treasures?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "First, I wish for Senior Zhang to protect my Qin family," said Qin Yun. "Second, I wish for you to attempt to save my wife and perhaps my daughter who might still be alive if it''s within your power. If there is truly nothing you can do, then forget it."


    "I understand." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    "Qin Yun, you have to return alive. I have never made a wrong judgment with these eyes of mine," said Patriarch Bai smilingly with narrowed eyes.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    "The location of the Great Chu world in the void has been determined based on the intelligence obtained from interrogating the Other Realm beast and my sense of the distant void," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I will send you there now. As for your return trip¡­ You can use this Void Altar. You will constantly be able to sense the location of our homeworld. With you being capable of shattering the void, you are completely able to return by yourself."


    "Yes." Qin Yun looked at a golden altar about ten feet wide to his side.


    Qin Yun had refined the golden altar according to Ancestral Master Zhang''s instructions. It had been infused with his blood and was even nourished by his soul.


    He could sense it clearly despite the distance.


    "Let''s begin." Ancestral Master Zhang said as he waved his hand.


    Phew!


    With a flash of purple lightning, the space in the hall distorted as though a curtain had been pulled apart, revealing a rift. Through the void rift, one could sense a distant world. The world''s aura was a lot darker.


    "Go," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Okay."


    Qin Yun gave Ancestral Master Zhang and company a final glance. Following that, wrapped in Sword Qi, he took a step and tunneled through the void rift.


    The void rift''s passageway was very weak but it could easily withstand a mortal like Qin Yun. Furthermore, with Qin Yun being especially adept at controlling the void, he could rapidly proceed forward even with the void''s fluctuating power.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun vanished into the void rift as it slowly closed.


    Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, Patriarch Bai, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa watched this scene quietly.


    "Let''s hope that there are no accidents," said Human Emperor.


    "Brother Zhang, you have to be careful. Entry into this hall should be forbidden from this day forth. This Void Altar has to be protected well," warned Patriarch Bai. "If the Void Altar were to be destroyed, it would be very difficult for Qin Yun to find the location of our homeworld through the void. He would very likely get lost."


    "Don''t worry," Ancestral Master Zhang said.


    The four of them were a little worried but none of them could do a thing. Qin Yun was now on his own.


    ¡­


    Black clouds billowed in the Great Chu world''s sky. A void rift appeared amid a contiguous mountain range.


    Sou!


    A figure descended, it was Qin Yun dressed in a black robe. He had a companion saber by his waist and he looked a lot colder.


    "I''m truly being targeted." Qin Yun could immediately sense the discrimination of the world''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi. He felt out of place but he quickly cast his Dharmic formulation to hide from the heavens while changing his aura.


    Boom!


    Qin Yun''s aura rapidly transformed into one that cultivated in a Fiendbody Dharmic formulation. He now exuded a dark and sinister aura. Immediately, the rejection of the Heaven Earth Essence Qi vanished. After all, he was mortal. The rejection he received was very slight to begin with. With a change of his aura, there was no more rejection.


    Hum!


    Qin Yun opened the Eye of Lightning at his glabella.


    With his Eye of Lightning, he could clearly see the Heaven Earth Essence Qi! If the Heaven Earth Essence Qi in Qin Yun''s homeworld appeared light green through his Eye of Lightning, being filled with vibrant vitality, then the Great Chu world''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi appeared like a thin black fog. It was oppressive, turbid, and filled with a bloodlust.


    Scanning his surroundings carefully, he nodded slightly. "There are some tribes within fifty kilometers. The strongest is barely at the Connate realm. The strongest ones in a hundred and fifty kilometers can be barely considered to be at the Connate Golden Core. It''s impossible for them to notice the spatial fluctuations here."


    Since he had not been exposed, there was no need for him to engage in Void Transference.


    Qin Yun had brought a Void Transference Dao talisman with him on his trip to the Great Chu world! It was quite easy for a mortal sword immortal like him to engage in Void Transference. Even so, the cost of just one Void Transference was about one first-grade Dharma treasure.


    In fact, with Qin Yun''s realm, only a Skyfiend''s Dao domain could fool him. And the places he could teleport to were specially selected by Ancestral Master Zhang. The chances of a Skyfiend being nearby? Very unlikely.


    "Sou!"


    With the help of a pair of third-grade Dharma treasure combat boots, he instantly produced a black wind.


    He looked impressive riding it as he flew in the direction the sun rose.

 360 Springboard

    Chapter 360: Springboard


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun rode on a black wind, whistling through the sky, when he suddenly saw a tribe in a distant forest. The place was littered with corpses but there were thirteen men on horseback standing amidst them.


    They were looking coldly at their surroundings.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Curved blade Dharma artifacts flew back to the men, who retrieved them.


    There was also a golden light that returned to a lanky man that seemed the leader of the pack. It wrapped around his wrist, forming a golden bangle. A black luster swirled above the golden bangle.


    "Brother, more than a thousand of these Qilian Tribe tribesmen are dead. Not one of them escaped." One of the horseback riders said respectfully.


    "Counting the children in the pregnant women, there was a total of 1222 lives," said the lanky man softly. "Their souls have been absorbed by my treasure. It will take just short of three thousand before I reach a hundred thousand."


    "That''s just the massacre of another two or three tribes. Brother, you will be able to amass a hundred thousand lives by today," said one of the horseback riders.


    "We have to be careful. "This is City Lord Tiemo Tu''s territory! If he learns that we were killing tribes in his territory, there will be trouble," said the lanky man. "Make haste. We will leave Tiemo Tu''s territory the moment I amass enough souls. Hmph, we traveled hundreds of kilometers to slaughter a few tribes. I doubt Tiemo Tu will be able to figure out it was us."


    "Brother, your Hundred Thousand Bloodfiend Dharma will be mastered after you amass a hundred thousand souls. Is there a need to fear Tiemo Tu?"


    "Yes, Brother will become city lord when he kills Tiemo Tu!"


    Everyone began lavishing him with praise.


    The leader revealed a cold, sinister smile and said indifferently, "He should not be underestimated. My strength is still far from Tiemo Tu''s. I can only match him when my Hundred Thousand Bloodfiend Dharma is mastered to a high degree! To kill him¡­ I need to completely master it. Quickly search the bodies and see if there are any treasures."


    "Yes."


    The twelve men immediately dismounted their horses and rapidly searched the area.


    But the moment they dismounted their horses, they heard a bellow. "How dare you engage in mindless slaughter in City Lord Tiemo Tu''s territory?" A black wind filled with bloodlust descended.


    "Oh no."


    The lanky man''s expression changed as he turned to look at the black wind. He immediately waved his hand, sending the golden bangle on his wrist out in the form of a golden beam in a bid to attack the black wind.


    However, the black wind put up an immense resistance against the golden beam. The lanky man''s expression changed. "No good, this person is far stronger than I am! What an unlucky coincidence for me to meet Tiemo Tu''s subordinate! I have to leave quickly."


    ou!


    He immediately jumped off his horse and, tapping his feet, transformed into a shadow as he rapidly escaped.


    As the black wind howled, it swept through the twelve subordinates. They knelt down to beg for mercy in horror but the black wind blew past them mercilessly. Their bodies disintegrated, turning to dust before scattering into the world.


    The lanky man ran all the way but the howling black wind caught up to him very quickly.


    "I''m doomed." The lanky man was horrified.


    "Sir, spare me! Spare me!" yelled the lanky man immediately. "I''m willing to be your slave. Spare me, please!"


    Sou!


    The black wind dissipated, revealing an austere-looking man dressed in black. He had a saber hanging by his waist and there was a hint of darkness to his aura. The lanky man could not help but shudder when he felt the man''s gaze land on him.


    "Who is this person? I should know all of the experts serving Tiemo Tu. But this person¡­" The thin man was secretly puzzled.


    "Do you wish to live?" Qin Yun looked him coldly in the eye.


    The lanky man said extremely reverently, "Yes, I wish to live. As long as you spare me, I''m willing to be your slave and forever be loyal to you."


    "Raise your head and look at me," said Qin Yun.


    Only then did the lanky man raise his head.


    However, his eyes instantly fell into a daze when he saw a formless wave emit from Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Qin Yun''s strength had already reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. It was extremely easy to control the soul of an existence equivalent to the Connate False Core. As for strength of the heart and mind, the beings of the Great Chu world were unlike the Daoist and Buddhist cultivators in Qin Yun''s homeworld. It could be said that as a world ruled by fiendcelestials, they cared most about strength and so put little effort into cultivation of heart and mind.


    "Tell me in detail about the ten strongest experts in the surrounding five hundred kilometers," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes," said the stupefied lanky man.


    ¡­


    After ten minutes of questioning, Qin Yun learned that the lanky man was only at the Connate First Firmament according to the Great Chu world''s strength demarcation. His strength and knowledge were relatively limited but it was enough for Qin Yun to start with.


    The lanky man suddenly snapped back to his senses and looked at the austere man who appeared to be ruminating over something in front of him.


    "What just happened? What happened to me?" The lanky man felt something amiss but he could not recall what it was. He did not have the luxury of time to ponder it in full.


    After all, his life was now at stake.


    "Sir, I know I committed a huge crime but as long as you keep it a secret, I believe City Lord Tiemo Tu will not be able to identify the murderer," said the lanky man sycophantically.


    "City Lord Tiemo Tu?" Qin Yun paused in thought and shot a glance at him. "Don''t worry. City Lord Tiemo Tu will not know of this matter."


    The man was instantly delighted. "Thank you, Sir! Thank you!"


    Qin Yun flicked his hand and shot a wind straight at the man. His eyes widened in horror as the black wind rapidly disintegrated his body, reducing it to dust that returned to the land.


    "There''s no need to thank me," said Qin Yun calmly. He looked at the corpses that littered the ground. The poor tribespeople were of all age and sexes, many forming families. There were plumes of smoke rising from the tribe''s campsite. He could even smell food. Unfortunately, the tribe had been wiped out completely.


    "Although I already knew what sort of world the Great Chu world is from the Other Realm beast, to see it with my own eyes¡­ It''s truly hellish," thought Qin Yun. "It''s hell for the weak."


    Qin Yun flicked his finger.


    Swoosh.


    A green flame flew out! With his control of the Heaven and Earth powers, Qin Yun''s green flame rapidly split into more than a thousand wisps and landed onto each corpse.


    "Dust to dust, ash to ash." Qin Yun muttered softly. "I wish that all of you will reincarnate into a better world in your next life."


    All the corpses of the tribe turned to ash under the flames.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun rode the oppressive black wind once again as he headed north.


    Qin Yun flew all the way, for about a hundred kilometers, before seeing a city. The city gates had the words Tiemo written in the Great Chu world''s language.


    Tiemo Tu''s surname was Tiemo.


    "Although I received a lot of intelligence from the Other Realm beast, most of the intelligence was from thirteen thousand years ago. The intelligence is most likely outdated! Most of the fiendcelestials would have died from the tribulations long ago and new fiendcelestials will have risen." Qin Yun was cognizant of the possibilities. Thirteen thousand years was just too long. It was enough for dynasties to change in the Great Chang world. Entire sects could be obliterated in that time. For instance, the Daoist sacred land, the Scenic Mountain Sect, had declined while the new Daoist sacred land, Divine Firmament Chapter, rose up.


    And in the Great Chu world, perhaps only the strongest forces like Skyfiends would be able to endure the shifting of ages! As for fiendcelestials, they were probably in constant flux.


    Therefore, he was in need of new intelligence!


    "Thankfully, this world also has a Myriad Temple." Qin Yun nodded silently. "The Myriad Temple is indeed impressive. According to Ancestral Master Zhang, Myriad Temple is in many of the worlds surrounding the Great Chang world."


    "However, the price of buying intelligence about the Great Chu world while in the Great Chang world is ridiculous! It''s at least the price of an inferior-grade Numinous treasure," sighed Qin Yun.


    Purchasing high-end intelligence on another world was extremely expensive.


    After all, it was not easy for Myriad Temple to infiltrate these worlds either.


    "However, it is much cheaper for a local to buy the Great Chu world''s intelligence." Qin Yun looked at the distant city. "City Lord Tiemo Tu is the strongest person for hundreds of kilometers. He has strength at the peak second Firmament Connate realm. He once escaped from a third Firmament Connate realm expert! He''s equivalent to being at the peak Connate True Core of my homeworld and is approaching that of the Connate Golden Core."


    "I should gain enough renown to be invited as a customer of the Myriad Temple by killing him."


    Qin Yun looked at the city.


    He had decided to use the murder of Tiemo Tu as his springboard!

 361 Lady Meiqing

    Chapter 361: Lady Meiqing


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Tiemo City.


    "It truly is a dystopian society filled with fiends." Qin Yun thought as he walked on the streets. At his level, he could sense numerous cultivators and demons that had cultivated in the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations! A large number of mortal servants accompanied these fiends. The ratio of cultivators in the Great Chu world was a lot higher than his homeworld.


    It mainly stemmed from the fact that the fiendcelestial Dharmic formulations were easier to cultivate! Many evil Dharmic formulations allowed one to easily embark on the path of cultivation.


    However, that was only true in the beginning. It became more difficult later on.


    "There are so many fiends. If this were my homeworld, I would have long wiped them out, probably the moment I discovered them. But now, I can only put up with it. I even have to act as one of them," thought Qin Yun. As he walked along, he soon saw the distant City Lord Manor. It was lofty and large, with powerful fiendish auras lingering around it.


    ¡­


    In a palatial City Lord Manor, Tiemo Tu was sitting on a throne. A petite beauty was lying in his embrace. "City Lord, have another drink." Tiemo Tu''s large hand was wrapped around the beauty. His palm nearly covered half her body, not because she was that tiny but because he was that large. He was nearly ten feet tall. He had a thick beard and his eyes were fixated on the dance happening below him.


    There was a bevy of red-dressed dancers dancing beneath him. Their dance had a special charm to it. Every dance pose stirred a person''s heart. If an ordinary mortal were to see it, they would likely be captivated, unable to maintain their clarity of mind.


    Tiemo Tu drank the wine offered by the beauty as he looked at the woman leading the dancers.


    She in particular exuded a natural charm, and the way her body moved was as clear and graceful as water. But it was really her eyes that captivated Tiemo Tu.


    "Lady Meiqing is getting prettier every day. Even I do not dare to give her a second look." A white-dressed man standing beside Tiemo Tu bowed slightly as he said with a smile.


    "She is a fiendsuccubus by nature. She''s the Fiend Lady of Fiend Succubus Chapter''s present generation," said Tiemo Tu smilingly with squinted eyes. "She has only cultivated to the peak of the Postnatal realm but she''s already this charming. If she were to reach the Connate realm¡­ that feeling¡­" Just the thought of it made Tiemo Tu''s eyes narrow.


    The white-dressed man bent his back and smiled sycophantically.


    "Leave, all of you," ordered Tiemo Tu suddenly. "Meiqing, stay behind."


    "Yes," replied the white-dressed man with a bow. Following that, he swept his cold gaze at the surrounding people. Immediately, the beauties, dancers, musicians, and servants rapidly took their leave. The white-dressed man left as well. Soon, the huge hall only had Tiemo Tu and the enchanting Lady Meiqing in it.


    "Come over here," said Tiemo Tu with a smile as a glint flashed in his eyes. "Beauty, come."


    "Yes, City Lord." Meiqing smiled, her eyes shining brightly while she stepped forward.


    Tiemo Tu reached out his hand and immediately a long whip appeared in it. Meiqing''s facial muscles twitched a little when she saw that.


    Tiemo Tu was truly ruthless.


    However, in order to survive, and for the entire Fiend Succubus Chapter to establish itself to continue living on, she had to get into the good graces of City Lord Tiemo Tu!


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Tiemo Tu, come out and meet your maker!" A cold roar resounded through City Lord Manor, audible to most within Tiemo City.


    "What?"


    "Who dares challenge City Lord?"


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    "Something huge is going to happen! He came especially for City Lord!"


    There were many people walking to and fro the surrounding streets originally but the moment they heard the angry roar, the pedestrians rapidly fled to safety. Many humans and demons hid. None of them dared to watch out in the open! When fiends fought in Great Chu world, they did not care about implicating the innocent. The farther they hid, the better.


    Many hid in their distant residences and looked secretly at City Lord Manor''s entrance through their doors, windows, and crevices.


    A black-robed man was standing in front of the manor. He had a saber by his waist as he exuded a cold and forbidding aura.


    "Boom!"


    Immediately, a large number of troops came out of City Lord Manor. Even the guards at the door drew their weapons, looking at Qin Yun with trepidation. However, none of them dared to attack! This was because they knew that a person that dared to directly challenge City Lord Tiemo Tu was not someone ordinary soldiers like them could handle.


    Very soon.


    Hundreds of soldiers were gathered, and leading them was a gray-robed elder.


    "What audacity for you to come to City Lord Manor to cause trouble," sneered the gray-robed elder. He held an array flag that billowed with fiendish aura. "Set up the array!"


    The hundreds of soldiers immediately split up into five groups as though they were five snakes surrounding a target.


    At the same time, City Lord Manor turned pitch-black. The array formation had been activated!


    This was Tiemo Tu''s turf after all. Powerful array formations were naturally set up. If he could escape from the hands of a Connate third Firmament expert outside, then he had a chance of matching a Connate third Firmament expert inside City Lord Manor.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    It was pitch black and the naked eye could only see a distance of a few hundred feet. There were war cries everywhere.


    However, Qin Yun stood his ground.


    "What a fool. I don''t know where this punk came from. He probably thinks he is accomplished in his cultivation and got it into his head to challenge City Lord." The gray-robed elder held the array flag and rallied the troops. "But now he won''t be able to escape while inside the array formation. This was set up at a great cost to City Lord¡­ Weaker Connate second Firmament experts would die inside the array formation, not even getting a chance to meet City Lord."


    The gray-robed sneered confidently.


    Qin Yun stood motionlessly as though he was sensing the operations of the surrounding array formation.


    "Swoosh!"


    Suddenly, Qin Yun drew his saber.


    The saber by his waist was instantly unsheathed! A saber beam that contained an evil fiendish aura instantly streaked out for hundreds of feet, slashing past the gray-robed elder''s body. However, the gray-robed elder could not dodge in time. His body was split into two and he died instantaneously.


    Without him powering the array formation, the surrounding pitch black fog dissipated. Hundreds of soldiers came into view as they looked at their surroundings in shock.


    "The array formation has been cracked?"


    "Steward is dead."


    None of the soldiers dared to advance. They were powerful within the array formation, but without it? They would only be sending themselves to their deaths!


    "Shwing." Qin Yun sheathed his saber and swept his gaze across the soldiers coldly. Then, he walked towards the interior of City Lord Manor. The soldiers quickly made way for him as they gazed upon him in fear.


    Very soon.


    Qin Yun walked in the direction of the powerful aura and came before a huge hall.


    There was already a group of fiendish cultivators standing in front of the hall. There were even powerful fiendish demons. And soon, two figures walked out of the hall. Leading the way was a stalwart man about ten feet tall. Beside him was a seductive, red-dressed woman. Her eyes looked pure as she curiously took in Qin Yun.


    "He''s strong."


    "He actually managed to destroy the array and kill Steward Gu."


    "Since this person came here just to challenge City Lord, he likely has what it takes." The fiendish demons and fiendish cultivators standing in front of the hall murmured in discussion. Very few of them were really loyal to Tiemo Tu. Most of them chose to submit to him only because of his strength.


    It was very normal.


    People submitted to the strong and were ruled by the strong.


    "Are you the one that thinks he can deal with me?" Tiemo Tu walked out as he looked at Qin Yun with interest.


    "Tiemo Tu." Qin Yun looked at him with eyes filled with killing intent. He naturally guessed that the man before him was Tiemo Tu after his intelligence gathering.


    "You are quite strong. It would be a pity if you died," said Tiemo Tu with a loud laugh. "Why don''t you work for me? Here, there are lots of treasures and women for you to enjoy! There''s no need for all this wanton killing and destruction."


    Qin Yun said coldly, "If I were to submit to you, you would have first dibs in the ruling of Tiemo City, not to mention the treasures and women. I will only get a chance to pick at what you don''t want, isn''t that so?"


    Tiemo Tu was taken aback as he laughed. "No, no, no. You still need to prove that you are stronger than them." As Tiemo Tu spoke, he pointed at the crowd of fiendish cultivators and fiendish demons. "If you are stronger than them, you are the second strongest person in Tiemo City.


    "Once I kill you, they will naturally listen to me obediently." Qin Yun''s eyes had a hint of contempt. "Make your move before you lose the chance to do so."


    Tiemo Tu''s expression sank.


    Boom!


    City Lord Manor suddenly boomed as a gray fog gathered, forming a huge vortex above them. Tiemo Tu was clearly going to use all his strength. He immediately activated the array formation of City Lord Manor! Although the array formation could be powered by the other stewards, the true owner of the array formation was Tiemo Tu.


    "An array formation?" Qin Yun shot a glance at the gray vortex as he continued standing there calmly.


    The crowd of fiendish cultivators, fiendish demons, and Lady Meiqing watched everything carefully. Meiqing had her curiosity greatly piqued.

 362 Hes a Sore Sigh

    Chapter 362: He''s a Sore Sight


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Even as Tiemo Tu controlled the array formation, he felt extremely wary. "He cracked the troops'' array just now. Yet, he remains so arrogant¡­ He probably has something backing him! I''ll let my subordinates test him first. I''ll have greater confidence once I know how strong he actually is."


    "Seven Stewards, set up the Seven Kills Array and kill him!" ordered Tiemo Tu coldly.


    The seven stewards that stood among the fiendish cultivators and fiendish demons in front of the hall were taken aback. They cursed inwardly.


    "The enemy is already this provocative; yet, Tiemo Tu puts up with it. He even wants us to attack first?"


    "Tiemo Tu is truly cunning."


    The seven stewards exchanged looks but, as they had no options, they attacked collectively.


    But suddenly¡ª


    "I was giving you a chance to attack first! Yet, you still hide behind your subordinates?" Qin Yun sneered. "In that case, don''t even worry about making a move."


    Sou!


    Qin Yun moved.


    With a whoosh, an afterimage rushed straight for Tiemo Tu.


    "He''s fast!" The surrounding fiendish cultivators and demons, as well as Lady Meiqing, were astounded. Just his speed alone exceeded that of everyone present, including City Lord Tiemo Tu!


    "Oh?" Tiemo Tu''s expression changed. His hand extended and a staff appeared. He struck out with both hands forward.


    As he did, the grayish cloud in the sky filled with lightning!


    The lightning bolts combined with Tiemo Tu''s staff to strike at Qin Yun.


    "A comparison of strength?"


    With a scoff, Qin Yun extended his hand in the form of an afterimage, grabbing the staff. Everyone was shocked! As for the lightning coming down from the sky¡­ a black wind swirled around Qin Yun''s body and dissipated the lightning bolts as they struck uselessly against it. The lightning bolts failed to do anything to Qin Yun.


    With lightning and black winds covering his body, Qin Yun held the staff with his right hand while staring coldly at Tiemo Tu.


    "What?" Tiemo Tu had used all his strength when he brandished the staff. He had also cultivated in a Fiendbody, so he had a lot of strength to use. One strike from him could probably annihilate half of City Lord Manor. But at that moment, Qin Yun was confidently holding his staff. Tiemo Tu was unable to easily fling him off.


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    "How is it possible!?"


    The spectating fiendish cultivators and demons were dumbstruck.


    After the lightning was dissipated, with black winds gushing across his body, Qin Yun held the staff firm while staring at Tiemo Tu. He sneered.


    "Boom!" With a sudden exertion of strength, Qin Yun slammed the staff down to the ground, bringing Tiemo Tu along with it! Tiemo Tu released his grip on the staff in fear.


    But the moment he released his grip, the staff suddenly turned around and swept at him!


    Bam!


    As the staff swept at Tiemo Tu, he instantly phased away as an afterimage to fly backward before he slammed into the hall''s columns. One column after another collapsed loudly in his wake until he crashed into a solid wall. He left a huge crater in it and his body was left embedded inside the wall. His body was covered with blood and a red trickle trailed down his chin.


    "Go!" Qin Yun threw the staff he was holding.


    The staff transformed into a stream of light.


    Tiemo Tu, whose mind was still in shock while being embedded in the wall, sensed his Dharma treasure rapidly flying to him. He immediately looked up and widened his eyes, hoping to make it halt.


    However, Qin Yun had imbued too much strength into the staff! His fiendish Dharmic powers were weak at controlling Dharma treasures¡­


    "Pfft!"


    The staff pierced through Tiemo Tu''s chest, boring a huge hole in it. Tiemo Tu''s heart instantly shattered as much of the rest of his innards were pulverized by the ensuring shockwaves.


    Tiemo Tu''s head drooped down, his eyes still wide open. However, he did not make another sound.


    The fiendish cultivators and demons outside the hall could not help but feel trepidations in their hearts when they saw all that happened, especially when it ended in Tiemo Tu''s corpse having his own staff embedded in his body, pinning him to the wall.


    "This is no second Firmament Connate realm. He''s no doubt a third Firmament Connate expert!"


    "In addition, he must have cultivated in a Fiendbody! He is just too strong and with the immense physical strength he has¡­ he far surpasses Tiemo Tu."


    The fiends were terrified.


    Qin Yun was too powerful.


    "Greetings City Lord, we are your subordinates." The white-dressed man was the first to lead the bow.


    "Greetings City Lord, we are your subordinates."


    Immediately, all the surrounding fiendish cultivators and demons, including Lady Meiqing, bowed extremely reverently.


    Qin Yun swept his glance across the fiends.


    They were respectfully lowering their heads while their hearts were trembling. None of them dared to raise their heads.


    "Okay." Qin Yun tersely responded.


    "From this day forth, Tiemo City shall be renamed Windwolf City!" Qin Yun''s voice was cold. "And I, Windwolf Yun, will be Windwolf City''s city lord! Also, I know that Tiemo City has two deputy city lords."


    "Yes, yes, yes," answered the white-dressed man. "Both of them are out of town."


    "Get them to return immediately," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Definitely. City Lord, now that you are the new owner of the surrounding hundred and fifty kilometers, the deputy city lords and the factions within the area will have to come pay their respects to you," said the white-dressed man sycophantically.


    "Tiemo Tu truly bit off more than he could chew. How dare he fight you, City Lord. What a joke."


    "City Lord, you managed to kill Tiemo Tu in two or three strikes. If your strength is made known, it will definitely astound the world. I believe other cities would submit to you."


    "That''s right! With City Lord''s strength, the land he rules over will definitely not be limited to a hundred and fifty kilometers."


    Everyone took turns flattering Qin Yun.


    This was because their new city lord was too powerful. None of them dared to have thoughts of disobedience.


    Qin Yun swept them with a gaze.


    He had gathered intelligence prior to this, so he could guess the identities of the fiendish cultivators and demons.


    "This white-dressed man''s name is Bai Chan. He''s vicious and sinister. He was a lackey of Tiemo Tu that helped him engage in the sordid acts of snatching treasures and beauties. He also knew how to fawn over Tiemo Tu the best. He was Tiemo Tu''s best henchman." Qin Yun knew some of the stories of the white-dressed man and could already barely tolerate him.


    Humans in the Great Chu world also cultivated in the fiendish way, so it was common to see sinister acts.


    However, Bai Chan''s evilness truly stood atop the rest of the fiends.


    "Tiemo Tu deserved death," said Bai Chan sycophantically. "However, he gathered quite a lot of treasure, and most of it is on him. There are other things elsewhere¡­ I know where they are located. I''m willing to do my best for you, City Lord. I''ll find the treasures and hand them over to you."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at Bai Chan.


    In response, he smiled in an even more toady manner.


    A black wind suddenly surged from Qin Yun''s body as it swept towards Bai Chan''s body. He was horrified but he failed to withstand any of it. The black wind rapidly ground him to nothingness as he returned to the land.


    Instantly, all the fiendish cultivators and demons that were trying to be obsequious towards Qin Yun were dumbstruck.


    Bai Chan died just like that?


    "Don''t worry. I''m still quite amenable." Qin Yun looked at the trembling fiends. They turned increasingly uneasy, afraid that Qin Yun would kill them at any time.


    "I killed him only because I found him a sore sight. As for the rest of you, I guess all of you barely make the cut," said Qin Yun. He casually pointed at a blue-robed elder. "You."


    "Yes, my lord," answered the elder nervously.


    "Quickly make the necessary arrangements. I want to have some rest," instructed Qin Yun. "Also, there are many things that need sorting in Windwolf City. Report to me tomorrow."


    "Yes." The blue-robed elder''s eyes lit up as he hurriedly answered, "City Lord, please come with me."


    With that said, the blue-robed elder led the way.


    "Alright," answered Qin Yun tersely as he followed. As he walked, he casually waved his hand, sending out a gust of black wind that flew towards Tiemo Tu''s hanging corpse. The wind swept up the Dharma treasure and Cosmic Bag and carried them back to Qin Yun.


    After Qin Yun left, all the fiendish cultivators and demons in front of the hall heaved a collective sigh of relief.


    "Bai Chan died just like that?"


    "Just because this City Lord Windwolf finds him a sore sight?"


    "This new city lord of ours needs to be waited upon carefully."


    They felt that their new city lord had a capricious mood. It only struck deeper fear into them.


    Although Tiemo Tu was oppressive and cunning, he was considered quite normal. However, Windwolf Yun was subjected to changing moods and did as he pleased! Subordinates feared such superiors the most.


    "Did you notice it? The new city lord''s name is Windwolf Yun. Our city has also changed its name to Windwolf City. Does everyone still remember? Three decades ago¡­ There was a tribe called the Windwolf clan in the Blacktiger Forest. They offended Tiemo Tu and were slaughtered."


    "The Windwolf tribe?"


    "Could our new city lord be a member of the old Windwolf tribe?"


    "I''m only making a passing remark. Perhaps he''s not related."


    As the fiends discussed, Lady Meiqing headed off to follow Qin Yun.

 363 Myriad Temples Second Invitation

    Chapter 363: Myriad Temple''s Second Invitation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The blue-robed elder proceeded cautiously as he lead Qin Yun to a few palatial halls at the back of City Lord Manor.


    "City Lord." The blue-robed elder pointed ahead and said, "These few palatial halls are where Tiemo Tu used to reside and spend his time cultivating."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked over.


    There were a group of beauties already gathered ahead of him. Some were human, some demonesses, and there were even a few girls dressed as attendants.


    All of them were prostrating reverently. None of them dared to even lift their heads.


    "Two attendants stay. The rest can leave," ordered Qin Yun with a frown.


    The beauties and demonesses immediately felt uneasy. They could not help but look up at Qin Yun, making it a point to give a delicate face or have eyes filled with anticipation. They clearly wished they could be companions of the new city lord!


    "These two." Qin Yun chose two of the pretty and delicate attendants randomly. In terms of charm, the female attendants were naturally incomparable to the demoness beauties.


    "Yes," answered the blue-robed elder immediately. Following that, he bellowed in a hushed tone, "Why aren''t all of you taking your leave yet?"


    "Leave quickly."


    A female steward quickly led the beauties away, leaving the two female attendants behind.


    They respectfully came to Qin Yun''s side.


    "City Lord." The attendants'' had soft voices, sounding extremely obedient. They were only afraid that they would infuriate the new city lord.


    Qin Yun suddenly felt something as he turned to look back.


    There was a charming woman dressed in red approaching. Her gait made the eyes of any man light up when they fell on her. She had a slim waist and perky hips and most of her long legs were exposed. The blue-robed elder took a glance and turned away, afraid to take another look. Her entire being was that of a paramount beauty, one filled with charm. Furthermore, her eyes seemed pure and clear.


    Qin Yun even felt affected by her charming body and pure eyes.


    "She actually has such powerful charms at the Postnatal realm," thought an alarmed Qin Yun.


    "I''m already using my ''Grand Mesmerize Succubus Dharma'' to its fullest extent; yet, this new city lord is completely unaffected?" Meiqing could not help but be anxious when she saw how her charms were failing. Her greatest value¡­ was her beauty. If she were to lose favor, the days ahead would prove difficult for the Fiend Succubus Chapter.


    "City Lord," said the blue-robed elder with a muffled smile. "She''s the Fiend Lady of Fiend Succubus Chapter''s present generation, Lady Meiqing. Although she''s at the Postnatal realm, she is a fiendsuccubus by nature¡­ She''s truly a rare specimen. Perhaps there''s no one prettier than her in the entire region of Windwolf City."


    "Greetings City Lord, I''m Meiqing," greeted Meiqing immediately with a bow. Her voice was more pleasant than even expertly-played music. As she raised her head slightly to look at Qin Yun, her eyes were as limpid as water.


    Qin Yun glanced at her before turning to head inside the hall. At the same time, he said indifferently, "I already mentioned that I want to rest. Unconcerned parties are to take their leave. Steward Yu, no one is permitted to disturb me unless it''s something of importance."


    The two attendants departed with Qin Yun.


    "Yes," replied the blue-robed elder respectfully.


    The bowing Meiqing''s face instantly turned pale. She wished to follow but the blue-robed elder instantly extended his hand to stop her. He softly but sternly said, "Lady Meiqing, City Lord was very clear. You should be aware of his temper."


    Although Meiqing was anxious, she said, "I understand. Steward Yu, thank you for helping me deal with the city lord up until now."


    "Lady Meiqing." The blue-robed elder no longer treated her warmly. He said indifferently, "Let me give you a reminder. This new city lord of ours¡­ is incomparable to Tiemo Tu! He killed Tiemo Tu in a few strikes and would be considered rather powerful even among Connate third Firmament experts. This strength and status of his ensure that his horizons are wider than Tiemo Tu''s. Lady Meiqing, your enchanting techniques might have worked on Tiemo Tu but they''re unlikely to be effective against our new city lord."


    "Yes, I understand," answered Meiqing.


    "Alright, quickly take your leave. City Lord doesn''t wish to be disturbed." As the elder glanced at Meiqing, he naturally had a desirous feeling towards her.


    But¡­


    He did not dare touch Meiqing before determining if the city lord had his sights on her.


    Meiqing bowed immediately and left. However, her eyes showed worry.


    ¡­


    The Fiend Succubus Chapter was located to the west of Windwolf City. It spanned a hundred acres and was considered a rather weak sect.


    "Your Highness."


    There were middle-aged women standing guard in the Fiend Succubus Chapter''s periphery. When they saw Meiqing return, they greeted her reverently.


    She was after all the current generation''s Fiend Lady, a standing just second to that of sect master. The survival of the Fiend Succubus Chapter in Windwolf City mainly relied on her.


    "Hmm," Meiqing answered tersely and continued heading in. However, her mind was wandering.


    "Sister Qing''er."


    "Sister Qing''er."


    There were girls inside the Fiend Succubus Chapter. The oldest was about thirteen and the youngest was about six. The twenty plus girls welcomed her excitedly.


    Meiqing smiled as she caressed the girls'' heads. "Have you done your cultivation homework for the day?"


    "We just finished."


    "Sister Qing''er, we heard the resounding voice outside. It sounded like someone was challenging the city lord. Did something happen outside?"


    The girls asked one after another.


    "Qing''er, come over," requested a beautiful, purple-robed woman from afar.


    "Yes," answered Meiqing obediently. She gave the girls a smile before walking towards the purple-robed woman.


    They entered a hall together and took their seats.


    "Qing''er, I heard that Tiemo Tu is dead. The new city lord''s name is Windwolf Yun?" asked the woman immediately. "What''s the situation like in City Lord Manor? How strong is Windwolf Yun and what origins does he have?"


    "Master," said Meiqing immediately. "This Windwolf Yun is extremely powerful. He is no doubt a Connate third Firmament realm expert! Tiemo Tu lost his life after exchanging two or three strikes with him."


    The woman''s eyes constricted as she said with a frown, "That powerful? How did he treat you?"


    Meiqing had a wry expression as she shook her head gently, "I tried to speak with him but he ignored me. I was ordered to leave."


    "What?" The woman immediately turned flustered. "You''ve had a fiendsuccubus body since birth. To treat you in such a manner...does he not like women?"


    "I have no idea." Meiqing shook her head.


    "Our Fiend Succubus Chapter has been on the run and only found safety under Tiemo Tu''s protection after fleeing here," said the woman. "You and I are the only true core disciples remaining! With great difficulty we managed to find a few girls with potential¡­ but they are all still young. They are still far from having success in their cultivation. My Fiend Succubus Chapter cannot suffer another setback."


    "I know." Meiqing nodded. "But towards me, the new city lord seems¡­"


    "You have to believe in yourself," said the woman immediately. "Every life in our Fiend Succubus Chapter is counting on you. Without a backer, we will be eaten clean."


    "Yes." Meiqing nodded and did not say another word.


    She was worried too.


    In this land, the weak Fiend Succubus Chapter would be in an extremely dire situation if it did not have a backer.


    She still remembered her days of seeking refuge back when she was thirteen.


    "This is our home, where many seniors and younger sisters rely on me." Meiqing was very worried but she lacked confidence.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, it was the next day.


    Nearly everyone in Windwolf City knew that Tiemo Tu was dead. Now, the new city lord''s name was Windwolf Yun. The city had also changed its name to Windwolf City. Many factions within fifty kilometers rushed to the city, making efforts to call on the new city lord.


    "Whoosh."


    High in the sky, an old man and a young man stood on a black cloud.


    The elder overlooked Windwolf City''s City Lord Manor. Soon, he saw a black-dressed man reading while drinking in a yard.


    "Grandfather, I heard this new Connate third Firmament expert''s name is Windwolf Yun," said the youth with a smile. "A surname of Windwolf¡­ tsk. It''s obviously the surname of barbarians. It''s quite surprising that a punk from a savage tribe could cultivate to this stage."


    "Since he has reached the Connate third Firmament, be more polite," said the elder.


    "Our Fuda family is a fiendcelestial family. So what if we aren''t polite to someone like him?" The youth felt contempt.


    The elder chuckled and said, "In the imperial city, he naturally can''t do a thing to you. But in the wilderness outside the city¡­ killing a Connate first Firmament like you is no different from squashing a bug."


    The youth said in anger, "How dare he do that when he comes from some savage tribe¡­"


    "You''ve never left the imperial city in your life. Everyone around you treated you with respect. You have not even seen the world outside the city," said the elder. "You were made to undergo experiential training because you need to broaden your horizons. You have to understand that your strength is what matters."


    The elder looked down and, flipping his hand, produced a crystal.


    Sou!


    He threw it out.


    The crystal became a streaking stream of light, flying dozens of kilometers and into City Lord Manor. It reached its target, the reading black-dressed man.


    The black-dressed man reached out and grabbed it, immediately looking up at his surroundings.


    "Let''s go." After throwing the crystal, the elder departed on a black cloud with the youth.


    ¡­


    In City Lord Manor, Qin Yun held the crystal. He could tell at a glance that this was what the Heaven Earth Essence Qi Crystals of this world looked like. He also sensed the imprint on it.


    "The Myriad Temple is here? I just killed Tiemo Tu yesterday and they are inviting me today? They are a lot more efficient than my homeworld''s Myriad Temple," thought Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a transmission token.


    Transferring the imprint on the crystal into the transmission token, he immediately began contacting the other party.


    Hum!


    A phantom projected in midair. In the background was an ancient hall. A fiendcelestial with horns on his head sat there. From the might it emitted, Qin Yun judged, "It''s probably a second Firmament fiendcelestial."


    The fiendcelestial looked down at Qin Yun with a smile. He said, "I''m the Myriad Temple''s ambassador. The Fiend Crystal you received is a tiny gift from my Myriad Temple."


    "Greetings, Senior Fiendcelestial." Qin Yun immediately stood up as he put on a puzzled expression. "About Myriad Temple¡­ I''m quite knowledgeable but I have never heard of it."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    The fiendcelestial said with a laugh, "Only those with sufficient strength in this world will be invited by my Myriad Temple as a customer! Windwolf Yun, I can tell you that my Myriad Temple covers every corner of the world. The Monarchs and even the legendary Empyrean Lord keep good ties with my Myriad Temple."


    "Monarchs and Empyrean Lords?" Qin Yun gave a look of shock.


    Monarchs were Skyfiend existences!


    "My Myriad Temple believes in fair exchange. A person you wish to kill out of revenge, a treasure you covet, or a beauty of high status, you could even become the personal disciple of a Monarch or Empyrean Lord¡­ As long as you pay the price, my Myriad Temple can help you accomplish it," said the fiendcelestial confidently.

 364 Departure

    Chapter 364: Departure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I can have any beauty I want? I can become a personal disciple of the Empyrean Lord?" Qin Yun wore a fake look of shock. "Is that for real?"


    "Of course, as long as you can pay the price," said the fiendcelestial with a smile.


    "Then, what is the price of becoming Monarch Plumblossom''s disciple?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "A transcendent-grade Dharma treasure," said the fiendcelestial, its smile growing. "By becoming a Monarch''s personal disciple, you will ensure that you obtain cultivation Dharmic formulations. If your talent is sufficiently high, the Monarch will also nurture you. Furthermore, your status will be forever changed. At least in Monarch Plumblossom''s dominion, you could pretty much do anything you want."


    "Forget it. I can''t afford a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun shook his head before saying, "Senior Fiendcelestial, the world is large and filled with experts. I wish to purchase all details regarding the world''s experts."


    "I have the complete information of all the countries, large family clans in the world, and even all of its Connate experts and even fiendcelestials¡­ I can even give you a discounted price if you were to buy them all at once," replied the fiendcelestial.


    ¡­


    Purchasing information was a very common act.


    Be it Qin Yun''s homeworld or the Great Chu world, one would have the urge to purchase information on all the experts in the world once they reached a certain level of strength. By doing so, they would know who was not to be offended! In a life-and-death battle, having detailed information on the enemy gave one a higher chance of winning.


    ******


    "City Lord, this is the intelligence I spent all night gathering. It includes all the information we have about the factions in a hundred-and-fifty-kilometer radius around Windwolf City." The blue-robed elder sought an audience and handed over a thick tome respectfully with both hands.


    A female attendant received it and brought it to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun, who was drinking, appeared drunk. He flipped through the tome and read it.


    Although he had received some intelligence from killing the bandit leader when he first arrived in the Great Chu world, it was clearly incomparable to the tome. Qin Yun only had a general understanding the area around him. Now, he was learning many of the deep, dark secrets of the people around him.


    "Fiend Succubus Chapter?" Qin Yun reached a particular page.


    The Fiend Succubus Chapter had sought refuge in the city six years ago.


    Back then, a master-and-disciple duo along with a few female guards gained Tiemo Tu''s protection, allowing them to safely settle down and reestablish the Fiend Succubus Chapter. They also began taking in new disciples.


    "The Fiend Succubus Chapter not only has enemies outside. Many people in the city covet their beauty as well," thought Qin Yun. "They were able to survive this long because of Tiemo Tu''s protection in the past. It''s no wonder that woman named Meiqing kept insisting on speaking with me."


    "Sigh."


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly.


    "Fiendcelestials rule the Great Chu world. It''s survival of the fittest and the weaklings always lead tragic lives. The Fiend Succubus Chapter is beautiful but weak. Their fate is obvious¡­" Qin Yun continued reading the tome. It wasn''t long before he finished.


    "City Lord, the two deputy city lords and envoys of various factions have arrived in Windwolf City. They can meet you at any moment," said the blue-robed elder immediately. "City Lord, when do you plan on meeting them?"


    "Since they are here, let''s do it tonight," said Qin Yun. "I''ll host a banquet in City Lord Manor. I''ll leave the details to you."


    "Yes," replied the blue-robed elder respectfully.


    "Also¡­" said Qin Yun. "That Meiqing from the Fiend Succubus Chapter, summon her here. In the future, she will be my personal attendant."


    The blue-robed elder''s pupils constricted slightly. He had been coveting her! He even had his sights on the current Fiend Succubus Chapter sect master. But with Qin Yun giving such an order¡­ the blue-robed elder had to be more cautious.


    "Yes, I''ll send for her immediately," said the blue-robed elder in a fawning manner.


    "Take your leave then." Qin Yun nodded.


    The blue-robed elder bowed and took his leave. As he left, he grumbled inwardly, "The wonders of a fiendsuccubus body. She has really enticed the new city lord. Hmph, looks like she found a new backer after all."


    ¡­


    Fiend Succubus Chapter.


    "Qing''er, this is a girl I bought three days ago. Her name is Muyu. She has great talent in the cultivation of our Fiend Succubus Chapter''s Dharmic formulations. Her talent is only second to yours," said a purple-robed woman to Lady Meiqing as they stood outside a building while she looked inside. There, a young girl was being taught how to read.


    "Her talent is only second to mine?" Meiqing was pleasantly surprised.


    "I was also pleasantly surprised by her. She made me hope that our Fiend Succubus Chapter will be ushering in better days. I even believed that we would have a chance of prospering," said the purple-robed woman with a sigh. "But now, with a change of city lords, it is hard to determine the fate of our Fiend Succubus Chapter. Everything depends on the new city lord''s will. Without his backing, even the two deputy city lords are unlikely to be able to completely protect our Fiend Succubus Chapter."


    The Fiend Succubus Chapter was coveted by many.


    They naturally could not secure the sect if they lacked the strength.


    "Master, our Fiend Succubus Chapter will keep seeing better days," said Meiqing instantly.


    "Yea." The purple-robed woman turned and departed.


    Meiqing stood outside the building and watched. Soon, the middle-aged woman inside the room was done teaching and brought the little girl out. She immediately bowed when she saw Meiqing, "Your Highness."


    "Hmm." Meiqing looked at the young girl. "Your name is Muyu?"


    "Sister Meiqing," greeted the girl with a bow.


    "Where are you from?" asked Meiqing.


    "I grew up in Tiemo¡­ Windwolf City." The girl appeared a little apprehensive.


    "How about your family?" asked Meiqing.


    "My parents and uncle are dead," said the girl softly. "My younger brother and I were sent into the slave market but he died from an illness. I was later chosen by Master."


    Meiqing caressed the young girl''s head gently when she heard that. She was no stranger to such backgrounds. Her story was even worse. She said softly, "Muyu, from this day forth, Fiend Succubus Chapter is your family. If there''s anything you need, just look for me."


    "Okay." The girl nodded immediately. Her eyes lit up. To a girl that had been sent into the slave market, entering the Fiend Succubus Chapter was truly a blessing.


    "Go with her," instructed Meiqing.


    "Yes, Your Highness." The middle-aged woman left with the girl.


    Meiqing stood alone as she watched the girl depart.


    The entire Fiend Succubus Chapter was relying on her.


    She was exhausted as well.


    She really wished to protect her ''family.'' She wanted to protect this group of younger sisters but all she could do was rely on her beauty and body.


    "Qing''er, quick. Someone from City Lord Manor is here." Fiend Succubus Chapter''s sect master''s voice sounded in Meiqing''s ears.


    "Someone from City Lord Manor?" Meiqing was astounded as she rushed to the main entrance.


    The entire Fiend Succubus Chapter gathered by the main entrance.


    A few horseback men were there and leading them was a blue-armored soldier. The moment he saw Fiend Succubus Chapter''s sect master and Meiqing approach with a few middle-aged women, he immediately dismounted.


    "Greetings, Lady Meiqing," greeted the soldier with a respectful smile. "The City Lord has decreed that you are to be his personal attendant from this day forth. Please make your preparations quickly and follow us to City Lord Manor."


    "Personal attendant?"


    The purple-robed woman and the middle-aged women behind Meiqing felt relieved. They even revealed looks of excitement.


    "Qing''er, what are you waiting for?" The purple-robed woman asked excitedly. At the same time, she sent a voice transmission: "By being a personal attendant, you will be by his side at all times. You have to treat the new city lord well. He is much stronger than Tiemo Tu. With him here, our Fiend Succubus Chapter will be safe for centuries. It will give us enough time to rise up again."


    "Yes." Meiqing was equally excited.


    ¡­


    Meiqing arrived at City Lord Manor moments later.


    "Greetings City Lord, I''m Meiqing." Meiqing bowed respectfully as she looked at Qin Yun with warm feelings.


    Regardless, the new city lord, Windwolf Yun, was a Connate third Firmament realm expert. He was strong, young, and handsome. She felt sweet joy knowing that she would be serving him constantly.


    "Alright." Qin Yun took a look and said, "Remember, when you are here with me¡­ you have to be obedient. Do not make decisions on your own."


    "I understand," said Meiqing reverently.


    ¡­


    That night, City Lord Manor hosted a banquet and invited people from all over the region.


    As the new city lord was strong, with the strength to wipe out any alliance formed by the factions in Windwolf City, no one dared to cause trouble! Even the two deputy city lords were extremely respectful! Everyone knew that during Tiemo Tu''s reign, the two deputy city lords retained some of their arrogance.


    "I will be entering seclusion for a few days. Meiqing, Steward Yu, you are not to disturb me unless it''s something important," commanded Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    The blue-robed elder and Meiqing bowed and replied reverently.


    "Alright." Following that, Qin Yun began his seclusion. It was common for experts at the Connate third Firmament realm to enter seclusion for a decade or two.


    Qin Yun activated an array formation inside the chamber. After he secured the array formation, he secretly left Windwolf City.


    Sou!


    He rode a black wind the entire way as he flew amid the clouds, heading straight for Springmountain City that was five thousand kilometers away.


    "According to the intelligence I received from Myriad Temple, one of the two Dharma treasure gauntlets is in the hands of Fiendcelestial Tantong. And other than secluding himself in Mt. Plumblossom, Fiendcelestial Tantong typically resides in Springmountain City," thought Qin Yun. "I''ll first think of a way to kill him before snatching the gauntlet."

 365 Tantong Family Clan

    Chapter 365: Tantong Family Clan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun landed on a mountain and, with a flash of his body, his appearance changed.


    His black robes turned white! His hair was also made stark white. His facial appearance shifted slightly as the saber by his waist turned into a sword. Most importantly, his aura experienced a change. To ordinary Connate experts, changing their vital aura was a very difficult task¡­ But when one had the strength of a third Firmament Essence Soul, learning a Dharmic formulation that faked one''s aura was not difficult.


    Old Master Chu had managed to do so. Therefore Qin Yun was easily able to do so after obtaining the Dharmic formulation.


    His entire being had undergone a complete change.


    "Open." A third eye opened in between his brows.


    The Eye of Lightning swept the surrounding area.


    "According to my intelligence, there are no Skyfiends around for hundreds of kilometers out. The closest Skyfiend is Monarch Plumblossom of Mt. Plumblossom, and he''s fifty-five hundred kilometers away." Qin Yun observed the area. "Yes, I wouldn''t dare make a bold claim but I have already scanned the area up to a hundred and fifty kilometers out. There isn''t even a fiendcelestial, much less a Skyfiend."


    "Let me look at Springmountain City now."


    Qin Yun peered at Springmountain City.


    The mountain he was on was more than five hundred kilometers away from Springmountain City. However, with Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning, he could still clearly see the city. He could even hone in on any single living being inside the city.


    "What a large city. It probably has a population of ten million." Qin Yun was surprised at seeing this. "Humans are indeed tenacious creatures. Back when this Great Chu world was first overrun by fiendcelestials, the world was transformed¡­ Humans nearly died out. The remaining humans were forced to adapt to the new environment. They submitted themselves to fiendcelestials and began procreating until they occupied thirty percent of the Great Chu world."


    "Fiendcelestial Tantong''s family clan is in Springmountain City. He occasionally takes up permanent residence here." Qin Yun observed carefully.


    Through the Eye of Lightning, he first found the Tantong family clan''s manor.


    He observed carefully¡­


    The Eye of Lightning could easily see the intensity of auras! A fiendcelestial''s aura was very different from a mortal''s, akin to a gigantic fireball amid a swath of fireflies. Just as Qin Yun managed to easily sweep a hundred and fifty kilometers of his surroundings and confirm that there were no fiendcelestials, he quickly made a thorough probe of Springmountain City despite its high population count.


    "There''s nothing. The Tantong family clan''s manor doesn''t have any fiendcelestials in it."


    "In fact, the entire Springmountain City¡­ only has one fiendcelestial." Qin Yun quickly found the fiendcelestial thanks to its sufficiently strong aura. As he observed carefully with the Eye of Lightning, he saw that the fiendcelestial was fornicating with beauties. "He''s only at the second firmament Fiendcelestial realm."


    "Does this mean that Tantong is currently cultivating in Mt. Plumblossom?" Qin Yun frowned. "That''s a place with a Skyfiend."


    "Is Tantong carrying the Dharma treasure gauntlet with him or has he left it in his family manor?" Qin Yun had that sudden thought. "I''ll first visit Springmountain City."


    ¡­


    After dispelling his Eye of Lightning, Qin Yun rode the black wind. Although he did not fly fast, he arrived at Springmountain City an hour later.


    Springmountain City was an ancient and majestic city. Its populace exceeded ten million. It was rather famous in the Great Chu world because it was home to three fiendcelestial family clans! The three family clans jointly ruled over the city and other cities hundreds of kilometers away.


    "Let me see if the Dharma treasure gauntlet is in Springmountain City. If it''s in the city, things will be much simpler." Qin Yun silently landed in the city and used the Heart-Protecting Mirror to seek out the gauntlet.


    Out of all the parts of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor, he had only brought the Heart-Protecting Mirror to the Great Chu world.


    This was because the Heart-Protecting Mirror was the core of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor. With it, he could sense the other parts. Of course, the condition was that he had to be sufficiently close, within a range of approximately five kilometers.


    At the same time, the Heart-Protecting Mirror gave Qin Yun immense strength! The Empyrean Lord Divine Armor could augment the strength of a physical body. The Heart-Protecting Mirror was key to that augmentation. Now, although it was only an individual item, it could still give Qin Yun''s physical body powers to match those of a first Firmament fiendcelestial! Previously, he had relied solely on his strength to easily kill Tiemo Tu.


    ******


    Inside Springmountain City.


    It was a bustling land filled with experts. Many factions had their headquarters stationed in the city.


    "Springmountain City is truly lively, much more than in the sect." Amid the bustling crowd, a young couple was looking excitedly at their surroundings.


    "I pleaded with Dad for a long time before he permitted us to join this excursion outside," said the man with a smile. "Remember, don''t cause trouble."


    "Don''t worry," said the woman.


    "Quick make way."


    "Quick, quick! Quick make way."


    "It''s Young Master Qi of the Tantong family clan."


    On the wide streets, there were many passers-by that quickly made way by moving to the sides. All of them were extremely obedient.


    Two black snakes flew as they drew a luxurious carriage along the streets. There were a large group of guards surrounding the carriage! And sitting on the carriage was a man in a gorgeous red robe. Leaning on him were two enchanting beauties.


    "It''s Young Master Qi."


    "Lower your heads."


    The surrounding humans and demons turned nervous.


    The three great fiendcelestial family clans ruled the surrounding area, their dominion spanning hundreds of kilometers. No faction dared to offend the three fiendcelestial family clans.


    "Hmph." Tantong Qi sat elevated on his carriage. As he swept the area beneath him, the corners of his lips suffused a smile.


    Suddenly, Tantong Qi saw a woman dressed in beast hide amid the passers-by a distance away. Although he could not determine her figure as it was covered by the thick beast hide, he could guess that she was rather petite. Even though her head was lowered, his heart was still stirred. She was the type he fancied.


    "Go, bring me that woman dressed in gray beast hide." Tantong Qi instructed the guards beside him. There were six guards standing on the carriage as well. All of them were at the Connate realm. Their leader was even at the peak Connate second Firmament realm.


    "Yes, Young Master." Two of the guards traced his gaze and quickly found their target. They flew over immediately.


    "Oh?" The couple still had their heads lowered but from the corner of their eyes, they could see two figures flying towards them.


    The couple could not help but look up.


    One of the guards grabbed the woman and instantly sealed off her strength. Then, he dragged her away.


    "Let me go!" The woman could not help but shout when she was lifted up. "Darling, save me! Save me!"


    "Let go of my wife." The man leapt up in worry. Two other figures jumped up as well and grabbed him, "Senior Brother, don''t go over!"


    "Rip!"


    A guard grabbed the woman while the other guard bellowed coldly, "You are courting death!" He then waved his hand as numerous black beams flew out.


    The man and the two companions behind him immediately tried to block.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The two companions were weaker. The black beam penetrated their guard, killing them instantly. The man with the scimitar managed to barely withstand the beam.


    "A Postnatal punk actually managed to withstand a strike of mine?" The guard smiled hideously.


    "Please, I beg of you. Let my wife off¡ª" The man with the scimitar struggled with great difficulty as he pleaded.


    Suddenly, a figure flew over from afar.


    A blood beam flashed.


    The scimitar-wielding man''s body jolted as he turned, only to see a white-haired elder.


    The man widened his eyes as a red mark appeared by his glabella. Following that, he collapsed to the ground and stopped breathing.


    "To dare defy Young Master Qi, your death really doesn''t merit any pity," said the white-haired elder with a sneer.


    The guard looked at the white-haired elder in astonishment. Following that, he smiled and beckoned for the return of the Dharma treasure that emitted black beams. With a tap of his foot, he flew back to the carriage.


    The woman fell into a daze when she saw her husband killed. The white-haired elder''s eyes met the woman''s but hers looked lifeless.


    "Go." Tantong Qi pulled the woman into his embrace as the carriage continued proceeding forward.


    After the Tantong family clan''s carriage departed, the streets turned noisy once again.


    However, there were three corpses on the ground. The passers-by avoided them but there was one group of people standing right next to them. They were led by the white-haired elder.


    "Elder." The others looked at the white-haired elder.


    The white-haired elder squatted down and looked at the man''s corpse and its widened, lifeless eyes.


    "Dao''er." The white-haired elder looked at the corpse and whispered, "I''m useless as a father. I was powerless but I had no other solution. Your anxiousness caused the deaths of your fellow disciples. If the situation went further, Young Master Qi could order our entire sect to be wiped out. I really had no choice. I''m useless as a father. I''m sorry."


    The white-haired elder immediately stood up. His tears had already evaporated.


    "The corpses are sullying the streets. Quickly clear them," ordered the white-haired elder. Immediately, a person beside him began taking care of the corpses.


    The white-haired elder looked at his two disciples'' corpses and then his son''s corpse with a blank expression.


    And amid the crowd, Qin Yun had watched this scene play out. "Such cruelty happens every day in Springmountain City, no, in every city in this Great Chu world."


    If this had happened in the Great Chang world, it would be considered a tragedy. The imperial government could still administer justice on such matters.


    But in the Great Chu world, worse tragedies were commonplace.


    Qin Yun continued walking again.


    The Heart-Protecting Mirror could sense up to five kilometers out. Therefore, he made a simple round and arrived outside the Tantong family clan''s manor.


    "I can''t sense it! I have roughly covered all of Springmountain City''s interior but the heart-protecting mirror did not sense anything," thought Qin Yun. "It appears that the Dharma treasure gauntlet is worn by Tantong at all times. Now that he''s cultivating in Mt. Plumblossom¡­ I can only force him out since I do not have a death wish."


    "Tantong family clan?"


    Qin Yun looked at the Tantong Manor in the distance as he thought. "The upper echelons of the Tantong family clan enjoy immense power. Their sins are terrifyingly heinous. There''s not even a single good person in the whole group. Hmph, whatever. I''ll kill them all! Once the upper echelons of the Tantong family are wiped out, Tantong himself will definitely return to Springmountain City to investigate."

 366 Vanquishment with a Though

    Chapter 366: Vanquishment with a Thought


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Following that, Qin Yun left. He chose a nearby restaurant and ordered a few dishes and alcohol. He waited for the best moment to strike as he enjoyed his meal. Most of the Tantong family clansmen were not in the manor as it was still daytime.


    Just moments later, the abducted woman in the beast hide was brought into the Tantong household.


    "Watch her well. She''s Young Master Qi''s woman."


    "None of you are to touch her."


    "Yes."


    "We wouldn''t dare even if we were ten times bolder."


    There were servants responsible for escorting and watching her.


    Since her strength was completely sealed, her eyes were filled with despair.


    In the distant restaurant, Qin Yun watched the woman in beast hide being brought into the manor through a window.


    "Fiendcelestials rule the world. It''s an extremely cruel world with survival of the fittest being the rule of the day. But it''s because of this that the creation of experts is easier here," thought Qin Yun. "The weak live abject lives. To change their fates, they have to become strong! For revenge, they need to become strong! In short, there are countless living beings in this world who hold a fervent wish of becoming strong. Because of this, they have more experts."


    "In comparison, most of my homeworld''s commoners live in peace. Their thirst for power is much more subdued compared to the Great Chu world''s." Qin Yun thought as he took a swig of his alcohol. "However, I still prefer my homeworld. I prefer peaceful worlds."


    Qin Yun had no way to change the fate of the Great Chu world.


    In the boundless Three Realms, there were many schools of thought¡ªimmortals, Buddhas, fiends, Godfiends, magi, dragons. The fiendcelestial lineage was considered very powerful and there were quite a number of mighty figures that hailed from it.


    ¡­


    Night fell.


    Tantong Qi returned home on his carriage, reeking of alcohol.


    "Young Master Qi, I''ll be returning first," said the guard leader who stood beside him on the carriage.


    "Brother Yi, go ahead. I''ll probably not be leaving the manor for the next three days! If I need to leave, I''ll send someone to request your service." Tantong Qi said with a chuckle. He was rather polite since Yi Lou was the guard leader that protected him. Furthermore, Yi Lou had reached the peak Connate second Firmament after cultivating for about thirty plus years. He was not far from the next breakthrough. The Tantong family also thought highly of the loyal and talented Yi Lou.


    Yi Lou nodded and leaped off the carriage before leaving.


    Tantong Qi dismounted the carriage as well. He entered the manor with a bright glint in his eyes. "Babe, I''ll be spending the next three days with you."


    Yi Lou soon returned to his residence in Springmountain City. As someone who was being painstakingly nurtured, Yi Lou naturally enjoyed great treatment. He was given an acre of land and some servants, all his own.


    "Master."


    "Master."


    The servants greeted Yi Lou respectfully.


    "Darling." A young woman came to him. There was a boy beside her as he immediately greeted, "Dad."


    "Darling, Yu''er." Yi Lou laughed as he hugged the boy.


    Yi Lou accompanied his wife into a hall.


    "I cooked this myself." The young woman served a bowl of thick soup to her husband from the wooden tray a maidservant carried.


    Yi Lou smiled as he finished it quickly with a spoon.


    The young woman waved her hand and all the maidservants took their leave. Even the boy was carried away.


    "What is it? Is there something wrong?" asked Yi Lou.


    "Darling, the sect came to us today," whispered the woman. "They wish for you to save someone! Sigh, this sect seeks our help every few days. You are practically busier than your sect master. Darling¡­ I think you should refuse them more. Don''t agree to everything. Back when you were in the sect, you were not valued at all and did not receive any major rewards. You only became accomplished by adventuring outside on your own. You got to this state by working for the Tantong family clan."


    Yi Lou nodded. "Don''t worry. I know that. I cannot abide by their every wish."


    "That''s what you say but you still help them every time." The woman was somewhat vexed.


    "Without Master, I wouldn''t be what I am today. I can''t just reject them outright. Alright, I know how to deal with it," said Yi Lou. Following that, he smiled, "Oh right, I can spend the next three days at home with the both of you."


    The woman revealed a delighted look. "Oh? Is Young Master Qi staying at home the next three days?"


    "Yes." Yi Lou nodded but he recalled the pitiful woman in beast hide.


    He sighed inwardly.


    "For the sect and my family, and for my wife, I can only continue down this path." Yi Lou''s state of mind quickly settled. He had many responsibilities. By reminding himself what was most important, it allowed him to be like a fish in water!


    ¡­


    The night continued.


    The restaurant finally closed for the day and so Qin Yun left it.


    He looked at Tantong Manor which occupied a massive area in front of him. It had many guards and there was an array formation enveloping it. The security was tight.


    Swoosh.


    With a step, Qin Yun traversed more than a thousand feet and entered Tantong Manor.


    He had triggered the array formation the moment he forced his entry. Standing above a lake in the manor, his Dao domain instantly enveloped Tantong Manor with a boom, destroying the Tantong Manor''s array formation.


    "Die, all of you." Qin Yun''s eyes were cold and merciless. His third eye, the Eye of Lightning opened at his glabella.


    He commanded with a thought.


    There were many members of the Tantong family''s upper echelon in the massive Tantong Manor.


    There were experts in seclusion who instantly vaporized as they returned to the land.


    Some disintegrated in their sleep, vanishing into nothingness.


    There were others who were hosting parties with friends. Dancers were dancing in front of the seats of honor, when the Tantong family clansman disintegrated and disappeared.


    ¡­


    Tantong Qi was soaking inside a massive pool of hot water. Steam billowed around him and his many beauties.


    "Bring that babe from today to me," instructed Tantong Qi.


    "Yes, Young Master."


    Soon, the woman in beast hide was brought over. When she entered the room with the pool, her eyes turned red when she saw Tantong Qi. Unfortunately, her strength was sealed. She could not even commit suicide.


    "Strip her." Tantong Qi''s eyes shimmered as he shouted directly.


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    Tantong Qi''s expression froze. His body silently disintegrated and turned into nothingness, vanishing from the world.


    The beauties tending to him and the woman in beast hide were dumbstruck.


    His body disintegrated before he vanished completely?


    "Is he dead? Is he dead?" murmured the woman. Her agitated eyes were welling with tears.


    ¡­


    Without so much as a stir, all the members of the Tantong family upper echelon were killed.


    "Time to leave." Qin Yun instantly took out a dark purple wooden tablet.


    He immediately triggered it.


    Space warped, and Qin Yun took a step into the anomaly and vanished.


    He appeared in a mountain range fifteen hundred kilometers away.


    "This treasure was refined by Divine Firmament''s Ancestral Master Zhang. It allows a mortal sword immortal like me to perform Void Transference ten times. It will be completely expended after the tenth time. This is the first time!" Qin Yun looked at the wooden tablet in his hand. It was worth a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. This was the first time Qin Yun was using it.


    Springmountain City was a city with three fiendcelestial family clans after all. The array formation that fortified the city was also extremely profound. There was also an existence at the second Firmament Fiendcelestial realm there.


    After killing so many, casting Void Transference immediately was the best way to remain hidden.


    "I have vanquished nearly every member of the Tantong family''s upper echelon. Only a small number escaped because they were outside." Qin Yun looked in the direction of Springmountain City. "Their transmission marks vanished the moment they were killed¡­ I believe Springmountain City will instantly react."


    "With nearly every member of the upper echelon vanquished, Tantong will definitely return to investigate the matter." Qin Yun looked forward to the outcome. "I''ll wait for your return!"

 367 Killing Fiendcelestials

    Chapter 367: Killing Fiendcelestials


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was already deep into the night but Springmountain City was stirring.


    This was because many Connate experts instantly realized that nearly all the upper echelons of the Tantong family clan had disappeared! Only two or three slipped through the cracks.


    "All the upper echelons of the Tantong family clan are dead. Nearly all of them were wiped out, right?" Many Connate experts shuddered in trepidation. It was one of the three fiendcelestial family clans. Who would dare act so carelessly? Instantly, experts in the city employed various measures to fly across the sky in the direction of the Tantong family clan.


    When they arrived, they saw a towering figure hovering in midair above the Tantong family clan. He was dressed in pale gold armor and had an immense aura.


    "It''s Fiendcelestial Yugu."


    "Patriarch Fiendcelestial."


    Most of the experts of Springmountain City identified him as they respectfully bowed.


    Fiendcelestial Yugu overlooked the manor as he released his Dao domain. He carefully probed for any clues he could find.


    "He killed so many mortals and these mortals are people of importance. The karma from such mass murder is not trivial. The murderer cannot be a fiendcelestial," thought Yugu. "But who would have such power that isn''t a fiendcelestial? It''s quite unlikely for a Connate third Firmament to instantly vanquish all these people. Could it be that the murderer is more than one person?"


    "Whatever. This is Brother Tantong''s problem. I''ll leave the investigation to him." Yugu immediately contacted Tantong.


    ¡­


    Mt. Plumblossom.


    This was where Monarch Plumblossom cultivated. Many of the fiendcelestials under her did their cultivation here as well.


    In an inconspicuous mountain peak on Mt. Plumblossom was a cave abode. Fiendcelestial Tantong was cultivating in there when his family was killed.


    "How is it possible¡­" Tantong, who was in seclusion, suddenly opened his eyes. His expression changed. He flipped his hand and took out his transmission token. Looking at it, he pondered in horror, "How could this happen?"


    Tantong looked at his transmission token in disbelief.


    He enjoyed a high status to the point that only six of his clansmen were qualified to contact him. And now, all six transmission marks had dissipated!


    "They died all at the same instant?" Tantong''s body trembled, his eyes were filled with pangs of fury. "Who, who dares do this? Who is it?"


    "Whoosh."


    His token indicated it was getting a transmission so Tantong activated it. Yugu''s phantom appeared in midair.


    "Brother Tantong," said Yugu. "I believe you are already aware of what has happened."


    "What exactly happened? How many members of my Tantong family are dead? Who is the murderer?" Tantong''s eyes were filled with rage.


    "I just did a probe. All the upper echelons of the Tantong family inside the manor were killed. A total of 105 people were killed," said Tantong. "They were simultaneously pulverized into nothingness. I am unable to figure out anything else."


    "One hundred and five? And it happened in my family''s manor? Is my Tantong family''s array formation that easily cracked? The person behind this must be a fiendcelestial! It must have happened under the orders of a fiendcelestial!" Tantong was infuriated. "Yugu, help me watch the area. No one is to enter or leave the area around my manor! Springmountain City is to be put on lockdown as well. I will rush back now. I want to know who has attacked my Tantong family."


    "Alright. I''ll be waiting for you then." Yugu nodded. He also guessed that the implications could run deep. He did not wish to be too involved.


    Fiendcelestials were typically very selfish. They did not do anything unless it brought them benefits.


    ******


    Qin Yun flew towards Springmountain City while riding a black wind. He had traversed fifteen hundred kilometers using Void Transference and now, he was flying slowly.


    When he flew to a spot about five hundred kilometers away from Springmountain City, a vertical eye opened in his glabella.


    The Eye of Lightning activated to take in the distant Springmountain City. It saw straight through into Tantong Manor. There was a stalwart fiendcelestial with dark red skin there and he was angrily berating his subordinates and ordering them to investigate."


    "Tantong sure came quickly. I have only covered about a thousand kilometers but that was enough for him to rush back to Springmountain City from five thousand kilometers away." Qin Yun smiled faintly. He was in no rush either as he continued flying slowly at the pace of an ordinary Connate third Firmament.


    As he flew, he carefully observed the surroundings of Springmountain City with his Eye of Lightning.


    "Yes. Monarch Plumblossom isn''t here. After all, only a few mortals died. How could that stir a Skyfiend?" thought Qin Yun.


    Soon after, he traversed the remaining five hundred kilometers.


    "I''ve arrived."


    Qin Yun overlooked the ancient city from high up in the night sky. He opened his Eye of Lightning again, carefully monitoring his prey.


    ¡­


    Inside Tantong Manor.


    "Sigh. Who knows who the Tantong family offended. It was nearly wiped out all at once. How are we to investigate the matter? The answer is quite obvious after a little thought. The entity that dares to attack the Tantong family clan must have a fiendcelestial backing it. It''s not an entity we can go against." Two Connate experts were walking alongside each other. One of them was a Connate third Firmament guest Elder and the other was Tantong Qi''s guard leader, Yi Lou. Yi Lou was also at the peak Connate second Firmament.


    "It''s a matter between fiendcelestials. Let''s just do our job without a fuss," said Yi Lou through a voice transmission. "Brother Wang, we can sure be considered lucky that we live outside the manor! If we lived inside, we might have been killed as well."


    "That''s right." The guest Elder nodded immediately and replied with a voice transmission, "The other two guest Elders that live in the manor were killed. As for a guard leader like you¡­ perhaps you might have been spared. But for an Elder like me, I''d definitely be killed."


    Both of them felt a chill.


    They had chosen to work for a fiendcelestial family clan to reap the benefits of being under the protection of people with power and influence.


    However, there were open and veiled contentions between fiendcelestials. At times, the conflicts could turn crazy. They finally experienced such an event for themselves.


    "Oh?"


    Their expressions suddenly changed.


    A terrifying force enveloped dozens of kilometers around them as the guest Elder and the guard leader, Yi Lou, became motionless. Both of them were horrified.


    "A fiendcelestial! Another fiendcelestial has arrived! And it''s definitely an enemy!" The guest Elder and Yi Lou looked each other in the eye and saw the horror in each other''s eyes.


    And at that moment.


    Tantong and Yugu were still speaking in a palatial building in the middle of the manor. Tantong still looked enraged.


    "Once the person is found, I''ll definitely make him pay the price!" Tantong said through gritted teeth. Yugu consoled him, "Brother Tantong, the person made sure to employ such underhanded techniques. They are probably not your match in actual combat."


    Suddenly, Qin Yun''s Dao domain descended upon them!


    Boom!


    The Dao domain that enveloped them instantly suppressed the probing Dao domain that Tantong had released.


    "Oh no."


    "This Dao domain is much stronger than ours." Tantong and Yugu shuddered in fear. The clash of Dao domains was the easiest way to determine the difference in realms. If both parties were almost equal, they could put up a fight with their treasures, Dharmic formulations, and experience! But if it was a complete imbalance, a total wipeout was inevitable.


    Sou! Sou!


    They immediately separated and charged out of the place in a bid to escape.


    However, Qin Yun released two flying swords from high in the sky as he maintained his Dao domain.


    The two flying swords plummeted downwards one after another.


    They flew at extremely fast speeds.


    As the two escaped, the flying swords had arrived by the palatial building. Bam! Bam! The two fiendcelestials crashed through the building''s walls in a bid to escape. At the same time, they turned to look up and saw a white-robed Qin Yun hovering high in the sky.


    Due to the suppression of his Dao domain, none of them could probe Qin Yun''s aura. They could only tell from their Dao domains that the white-robbed youth was an existence that far exceeded them in strength.


    "We have no grudge against you. Why are you killing us?"


    "Spare me! I''ll do anything."


    They separately sent two very different voice transmissions.


    As they sent the voice transmissions, the two flying swords flashed, as a misty rain appeared before their eyes.


    "How cold." Tantong felt a biting cold course through his entire body. A layer of frost formed on the surface of his body as his organs and blood began to freeze. His speed decreased drastically to less than ten percent of his original speed.


    Following that, the flying sword penetrated Tantong''s forehead.


    His eyes widened.


    Fiendcelestial Tantong was dead!


    Although fiendcelestials fought intensely, the weak ones did not dare to provoke the powerful ones! Right up to his death, Tantong had no idea how he could have offended the terrifying white-dressed man to the point that he had to be killed.


    ¡­


    If Tantong could be said to have kept his thoughts, with him being able to move under the frozen ice, then the weaker Yugu was a completely frozen ice sculpture. His mind was turbid after being frozen.


    A misty rain flashed before his eyes amid his disorientation.


    "I have never met you. Why are you killing me?" Yugu only had such a thought. Following that, he plummeted into an eternal darkness. He did not know how he had formed a vendetta with his murderer even at his death.


    However, he did not know that Qin Yun''s target was Tantong. He had only killed Yugu in passing¡­


    After all, he would not go easy if he had the chance to kill a fiendcelestial.

 368 Final Dharma treasure Gauntle

    Chapter 368: Final Dharma treasure Gauntlet


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at the two fiendcelestials corpses that resembled ice sculptures. His gaze came to a stop at Tantong''s left hand, on which he wore a golden Dharma treasure gauntlet. The Heart-Protecting Mirror also reacted, confirming that this was what he was searching for.


    "Treasure acquired." Qin Yun smiled as he flipped his hand. With the Two World Picture in hand, the two fiendcelestial ice sculptures rapidly whizzed over and shrank into the Two World Picture.


    "Time to go."


    Without any hesitation, he took out the dark purple wooden tablet and cast Void Transference once again, arriving fifteen hundred kilometers away.


    The moment he left, his Dao domain vanished. The Connate experts that were repressed by the Dao domain felt the terrifying binding force dissipate but many of them remained nervous. They had already seen an explosion come from the palatial building in the center. There was rubble everywhere and nothing could be discerned in detail.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Figures rapidly flew to where the palatial building originally stood. However, it was already completely in ruins. There were terrifying spatial shockwaves still emanating out. The ground, buildings, and wreckage were frozen. Just a gentle touch would shatter them.


    "What happened?" All of them stared in shock.


    "Patriarch Fiendcelestial''s transmission mark has dissipated." A core member of the Tantong family clan was one of the few members of the upper echelon that survived. Tantong had summoned him and given him his transmission mark.


    But this time, all the other clansmen''s transmission marks were fine but their patriarch''s mark was gone!


    This was not only limited to the few remaining members of the Tantong family clan. Even the upper echelons of the Yugu family clan not far away were horrified to see the transmission mark of their patriarch dissipate! It was like a bolt out of the blue!


    ¡­


    The two fiendcelestials knew many people. They even had contact with some Connate experts and the Myriad Temple.


    The moment their transmission marks vanished, the news naturally spread quickly!


    The two fiendcelestials, Tantong and Yugu, had died in Springmountain City and even their corpses had gone missing. The news shook Mt. Plumblossom. Monarch Plumblossom flew into a rage and immediately ordered an investigation.


    But despite all its efforts¡­ the investigation failed to identify the murderer!


    Major factions around the world paid close attention to the happenings. They only knew that the murderer had the ability to freeze the surroundings, leaving behind extremely cold temperatures.


    ******


    After Qin Yun was fifteen hundred kilometers away, he rode a black wind at the speed of an ordinary Connate third Firmament expert. After traveling a thousand kilometers, he found an uninhabited mountain and landed.


    "Whoosh."


    With a flip of his hand, he threw out the Two World Picture, encompassing the mountain.


    Following that, he released the two ice sculpture-like fiendcelestials. With a beckoning of his hand, the Dharma treasure gauntlet on Tantong''s corpse was retrieved.


    "This is it." Qin Yun held the gauntlet and, as it resonated with the Heart-Protecting Mirror, he was certain. "I have obtained one of the two Dharma treasure gauntlets. There''s only one left."


    "There''s no rush. Let me see if these two fiendcelestials have any other good treasures. I might even find a Numinous treasure if I am lucky."


    Qin Yun first stuffed the gauntlet into a Cosmic Bag before he carefully probed the two corpses.


    He spent ten minutes searching them thoroughly.


    "How poor they are!"


    "And it''s not your ordinary poverty! Perhaps there are too many fiendcelestials and they are not adept at refining Dharma treasures, causing them to have fewer treasures than Daoists or Buddhists of equal standing?" Qin Yun shook his head silently. One of them was at the peak second Firmament fiendcelestial realm while the other was at the second Firmament. But their treasures combined, excluding the gauntlet, were only comparable to Palatial Lord Black Dragon''s and Fiend Sovereign Jadeface''s. And those two were only at the level of the peak first Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    The Great Chu world had a lot more experts than Qin Yun''s homeworld!


    But in terms of refined artifacts¡­ the combined wealth of three Skyfiends under normal circumstances were incomparable to a Daoist Skyimmortal!


    For instance, Qin Yun''s homeworld had very few Numinous treasures in ancient times.


    But in the present day, a typical peak third Firmament Essence Soul would have one Numinous treasure in hand. As for those on the level of Human Emperor, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Patriarch Bai, all of them had even more treasures.


    "I cannot be too greedy. After all, the gauntlet is now in my hand." Qin Yun picked up the Cosmic Bag and with a whoosh, he stored away all the treasures in front of him. However, he could not help but grumble, "It''s true that fiendcelestials are rather poor."


    After putting away the Two World Picture, Qin Yun quickly changed his appearance to that of Windwolf Yun before taking off on a black wind.


    "The remaining gauntlet will be relatively more troublesome. Its owner is a third Firmament fiendcelestial after all," thought Qin Yun. He took on the easier task before the difficult one. He had approached this simple task by luring Tantong out before killing him instantly. It was entirely easy and he had even vanquished another fiendcelestial in passing.


    "A third Firmament Connate fiendcelestial might be weaker than me, but to kill it, ordinary means of murder will probably take too much time. If I take too much time, there will be enemies everywhere since I''m in the Great Chu world. If a Skyfiend were to arrive, I''d be doomed."


    Qin Yun understood this point.


    "I have to be quick."


    "Thankfully, I have the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash. With it, I''m confident that I can kill him in a short period of time," thought Qin Yun. "Although it takes a year to fill the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash with enough Sword Qi to use it once, it is extremely powerful! It can be very effective at a critical moment. Ancestral Master Zhang sold it to me at the price of a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. I really got it cheap. Its real value is definitely no less than a Numinous treasure."


    "However, Ancestral Master Zhang previously mentioned that it''s not worth that price since it can only be used by sword immortals."


    "On that thought, who is the one that refined such a Dharma treasure that can only be used by sword immortals?"


    Speculations filled Qin Yun''s mind.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun flew all the way


    After flying more than 10,000 kilometers.


    "Quzhong City?" Qin Yun stood on a black wind as a vertical eye opened between his brows. He saw Quzhong City from more than five hundred kilometers away. The last gauntlet was in Fiendcelestial Quzhong''s hands. According to the information in the intelligence provided by Myriad Temple, Quzhong spent most of his time living in Quzhong City."


    The Eye of Lightning looked into the distance.


    Quzhong City was also an ancient city with a populace of five million. Although only one fiendcelestial family clan ruled over the city, Fiendcelestial Quzhong was a third Firmament fiendcelestial! He still possessed a certain level of threat.


    "I see him."


    Qin Yun smiled. He clearly ''saw'' that in a hidden cultivation chamber in the large city, a fiendcelestial was sitting cross-legged. He had three silver horns and a surging fiend aura. Qin Yun had obtained information on all the fiendcelestials in the world from Myriad Temple, so he readily identified Quzhong.


    "Great." There''s only Fiendcelestial Quzhong in the city. There will not be any other fiendcelestials interferring with my mission." Qin Yun nodded inwardly. "With the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash, I can slay him in a short period of time!


    ¡­


    An hour later.


    A simply-dressed man with sprawling black hair and a companion saber by his waist appeared in a secluded alley. He smiled when he looked at his reflection before walking out. He was physically very close to Quzhong''s hidden cultivation chamber.


    "The distance is less than five kilometers. Why do I not sense anything from the Heart Protecting Mirror?" Qin Yun felt a little surprised. "Is there interference because the gauntlet is being stored somewhere? But even if the gauntlet is hiding inside a Grotto-heaven, I should still be able to sense it."


    Qin Yun made his approach without halting.


    Five kilometers, four kilometers, two kilometers¡­


    Soon, Qin Yun arrived on a street across the luxurious manor. This spot was about five hundred meters away from Quzhong''s cultivation chamber.


    "I can''t sense it." Qin Yun''s grimaced.


    As he walked without much thought, he unknowingly circled the huge Quzhong manor once.


    But¡­


    The Heart-Protecting Mirror still failed to detect anything.


    "Might it be possible that the last gauntlet is not with him?" Qin Yun felt disheartened. "Is there a mistake in Myriad Temple''s intelligence?"

 369 Helpless

    Chapter 369: Helpless


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun walked into a restaurant on a side street and ordered two dishes and a flask of alcohol.


    As he drank, he pondered the situation.


    "Fiendcelestial Quzhong either carries the treasure with him at all times or places it in some important area in his family clan." Qin Yun pondered. "But the Quzhong family manor is in the city and I have already searched through the city. It''s definitely not here! It''s not on him either! Then the most likely possibility¡­ is that it is already in the hands of another fiendcelestial."


    "He is a third Firmament fiendcelestial. It should not be easy for other experts to just snatch it from him."


    "For the Myriad Temple to not even know of this, it means it must have been a private exchange."


    Qin Yun speculated.


    "Who would he give the gauntlet to?" wondered Qin Yun. "Although the gauntlet itself is very ordinary in strength, it is still a set piece of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor. Quzhong would not dare sell it to some other faction. Even if he did, he would have to receive the Monarch''s approval first."


    "If it was sold to another faction with the Monarch''s approval, it can''t be a secret. Myriad Temple would likely know of it."


    "In that case, it is highly likely that it was a trade conducted among fiendcelestials under Monarch Thousand Eyes!"


    "It could even be in Monarch Thousand Eyes''s hands right now."


    Qin Yun drank silently.


    In fact, he had many options for seeking out the location of the final gauntlet.


    The simplest but most foolish method was to ask Myriad Temple! If Myriad Temple truly wanted to investigate, it could definitely learn the truth. However, he had just killed Fiendcelestials Tantong and Yugu. If he were to ask Myriad Temple about the gauntlet under the guise of Windwolf Yun, it would invite the suspicion of the Myriad Temple if it had any bit of intelligence.


    There were other methods such as deliberately causing a stir while laying a trap, etc¡­


    However, Qin Yun did not choose any of those methods.


    Having arrived in a world filled with enemies, he had to be careful. Qin Yun chose the most troublesome but safest method.


    "There are only a total of two hundred fiendcelestials in this Great Chu world. Even if I were to search the entire world, it wound only take a month with the Heart-Protecting Mirror," thought Qin Yun. His method was to ''probe'' every known fiendcelestial, one by one. After all, there were not many fiendcelestials in this world.


    "Of course, it''s highly likely that the gauntlet is within Monarch Thousand Eyes''s circle of influence."


    ¡­


    Monarch Thousand Eyes had a total of twenty-six fiendcelestials under him.


    Taking into account the distance and strength from highest to lowest, Qin Yun marked out a plan as to the order of fiendcelestials to probe. He then began following that plan.


    "That''s not right."


    "This fiendcelestial does not have the gauntlet."


    Qin Yun flew amid mountains. One had a cave abode amid it.


    "This one doesn''t have it either."


    Qin Yun flew across a city.


    ¡­


    He eliminated one after another.


    "It''s the sixth." Qin Yun looked at the undulating buildings in the distant mountaintop. He rode a black wind and flew through the clouds. As it was a fiendcelestial''s sect, he did not dare make too close an approach. If he was flying a thousand feet above the sect, the sect might regard it as an act of provocation! However, it was very common to fly in the clouds.


    The mountain was rather tall and three kilometers separated the clouds from the ground.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun calmly flew on the black wind.


    Suddenly, the Heart-Protecting Mirror by his chest reacted to a force that seemed to pull at it from the mountain range. It trembled slightly with the urge to fly out.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned. He continued flying through the clouds and as he approached the ground beneath him, the attractive force intensifying.


    "It''s below. The final gauntlet is in Fiendcelestial Jiwu''s hands." There was no joy on Qin Yun''s face. "A peak third Firmament fiendcelestial¡­ and in his lair too. How am I to deal with him?"


    ******


    Qin Yun continued flying as he gradually distanced himself from the area.


    After flying for more than five hundred kilometers, Qin Yun landed deep in the mountains. Waving his hand, he released the Two World Picture to envelop the mountain.


    Qin Yun looked into the distant north as the vertical eye flashed with lightning and opened between his brows.


    Hum!


    From a distance of five hundred meters, the Eye of Lightning spied on Fiendcelestial Jiwu''s cave abode.


    Fiendcelestial Jiwu was sitting cross-legged in front of a large furnace that roared with a flame burning vehemently beneath it.


    "Good." Noticing that Jiwu did not have any visible change in expression, Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief. "His perception of the surrounding area is not strong enough. He is unable to notice my spying."


    Although spying with the Eye of Lightning was a lot more brilliant than doing it with a Dao domain, exposure was still possible!


    For example, if one had an extremely strong sense of the world around them, they would have the ability to turn the area around into a Grotto-heaven of sorts. They would naturally be able to sense any spying in such an environment.


    "It makes sense. Most fiendcelestials focus on cultivating their bodies. Their Dao realms are usually weaker than the realms of equivalent Buddhists or Daoists. For instance, Old Master Chu was clearly weaker than me in that aspect," thought Qin Yun. In ancient times, fiendcelestials and Godfiends had much lower Dao realms even if they reached the third Firmament. The fiendcelestials in the Great Chu world were slightly weaker in that aspect compared to the mortal cultivators in Qin Yun''s homeworld. The difference was not huge, but it helped.


    "I''m not much stronger than him. Even if I rely on my Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash, I will not be able to kill him quickly." Qin Yun was cognizant of his limits.


    Jiwu was still in his lair and it was very likely that his lair''s array formation was very powerful.


    "What do I do?"


    Qin Yun looked on from a distance and was momentarily clueless.


    After watching for a moment, Qin Yun was taken by surprise. "Oh? Fiendcelestial Quzhong?"


    ¡­


    Quzhong had arrived in Jiwu''s lair.


    "Brother Jiwu, why were you looking for me?" inquired Quzhong.


    "Brother Quzhong." A wizened Jiwu said as he sat, "The fiendcelestials under Monarch Plumblossom, Tantong and Yugu, are dead. I''m sure you have heard the news."


    "Yes. The murderer is still at large." Quzhong sighed in response. "Rumor has it that Monarch Plumblossom is in a rage and is bent on hunting down the culprit. She has probably used divination methods¡­ but failed to find any traces of the murderer."


    Jiwu chuckled. "Has anyone sought to buy that Dharma treasure gauntlet from you recently?"


    "The gauntlet?" No." Quzhong shook his head. "Besides, haven''t I sold you the gauntlet already?"


    "Our transaction was a secret. Everyone still thinks it''s with you," said Jiwu.


    "Brother Jiwu, what are you implying¡­"


    "The mysterious murderer killed Tantong and Yugu for two possible reasons. One might be because of a grudge. In order to prevent any retaliation, it was done very cleanly," said Jiwu. "The other reason might be because of that Dharma treasure gauntlet."


    "Haha, Brother Jiwu, you might be overthinking things," said Quzhong immediately. "The Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set has many parts to it. Many of them are lost. Even if all of them could be gathered one day, the person who possesses the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set will at least be a Monarch. If fiendcelestials like us tried to have the entire set in our possession, it would only bring harm to us instead of being a blessing."


    Jiwu shook his head gently.


    "Both Dharma treasure gauntlets are known to everyone," said Quzhong with a smile. "No matter which Monarch gathers the other parts, all it would take is an order to easily force us, as well as Tantong, to hand over the gauntlets. There''s no need for any murdering. It would appear too contrived! Besides, if someone did complete Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set and wear it now, wouldn''t that immediately expose the murderer''s identity?"


    "Yes." Jiwu nodded. "What you say makes sense. Perhaps I was overthinking things."


    "Haha, that''s probably because the gauntlet is with you. Furthermore, the rest of the parts have long been lost," said Quzhong. "To obtain even one gauntlet, the murderer has to deal with us third Firmament fiendcelestials. It''s not worth it. If any Monarch wants it, I would immediately hand it over with both hands. I wouldn''t even resist."


    "Alright. But remember, if anyone tries to buy the gauntlet from you, you have to inform me," said Jiwu.


    "Purchase the gauntlet from me?" Quzhong hesitated. "Then, should I agree to the purchase or not?"


    "Just offer it at the price of half a Numinous treasure," said Jiwu. "If the other party agrees to it, that would be quite telling. We can then inform Monarch."


    "If one actually agrees to the price of half a Numinous treasure, it probably means that they have gathered the rest of the set," said Quzhong. "We naturally have to inform Monarch in that case. But I still think that you are overthinking things."


    "I''m just reminding you. By the way, I have something else to trouble you with," said Jiwu.


    "What is it?" responded Quzhong.


    "I plan to refine Essential Heart Pills. I need you to borrow your Nine Tunes Divine Fire," said Jiwu.


    "For how long?"


    "Three years at most," said Jiwu with a chuckle. "If the pills succeed, I''ll give you ten percent."


    "Fifteen percent!" said Quzhong immediately. "My Nine Tunes Divine Fire has achieved an initial level of success by now. The price of using it isn''t low."


    Jiwu looked at him and hesitated before saying, "Deal."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched from afar. "I can''t even deal with Jiwu, and now there''s an addition Quzhong to worry about."


    "If I tried to purchase it outright, no one here is a fool. Not only would they be wary of me, even Myriad Temple would watch me."


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    All the other parts of the set had been gathered! There was only one Dharma treasure gauntlet left but there was no way for him to obtain it.


    ¡­


    Days passed one by one.


    Qin Yun would watch the stream in a daze in the desolate mountains. At times, he would watch the wind rustle the leaves or spy on Jiwu''s cave abode¡­


    He racked his brains for a solution but none of them were feasible.


    Against the crafty and powerful Jiwu, Qin Yun was helpless. After all, the fiendcelestials ruled the world. He needed to be careful. He even needed to be cautious of Myriad Temple.


    "What do I do? What should I do?"


    "Xiaoxiao¡­"


    Qin Yun sat on the mountaintop as the mountain winds howled. He held an alcohol flask in his hand and tipped it to drink from it. The alcohol splattered onto his face and clothes but he did not care.


    He threw the alcohol flask to the side.


    Lying beside a boulder, he closed his eyes and prepared to sleep. He muttered softly, "Xiaoxiao, I really can''t think of a solution. There''s really no solution."


    A teardrop silently rolled out of the corner of his eyes.


    "And that daughter I have never met. Are you born yet? Are you alright? Your father¡­ is truly useless."

 370 A Years Time

    Chapter 370: A Year''s Time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun woke up after a short nap.


    He sat up and looked at the effects of the howling mountain winds in a daze.


    "I actually cried myself to sleep," muttered Qin Yun. "I do not have the luxury of time to drown my misery in alcohol. I just needed to momentarily get it off my chest. I have to continue thinking of a way to obtain the last gauntlet."


    Qin Yun stood up and turned to return to the wooden hut he had built in the mountains. It was where he was residing during this period of time.


    Even while he was traveling the Great Chang world or infiltrating the fiendcelestial-ruled Great Chu world, Qin Yun never stopped cultivating.


    He practiced his sword, his calligraphy¡­ As long as nothing held him up, he would persist every day.


    Therefore, over the past ten plus years, his Sword Dao''s realm was constantly increasing. Six years ago, he created Bright Moon Cold Nights, the third move of his Dreamlike Sword. With that, his strength finally matched that of the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Three years ago, he created the fourth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Waning Waxing Moons. It further enhanced his strength and with it, Qin Yun could even repress Old Master Chu.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Qin Yun habitually practiced his swordplay every morning.


    He stopped after two hours of sword practice. The, he cast his Eye of Lightning to observe the situation in the distant Fiendcelestial Jiwu''s cave abode. Following that, he would flip through many ancient tomes in a bid to find an opportunity for treasure.


    In the afternoon, he would begin practicing his calligraphy.


    Every stroke of his calligraphy corresponded to a sword move. His calligraphy practice was therefore another form of Sword Dao cultivation. Qin Yun would similarly practice his calligraphy for two hours a day.


    ¡­


    On the twelfth day of Qin Yun taking up residence in the mountains, he began his daily calligraphy practice as usual.


    As he wrote¡­


    "Only he is left to fly over those solemn thousands of miles of clouds and snowy mountains alone!" After writing the poem, Qin Yun stopped.


    Every stroke was a sword move and each word was an entire set of sword arts. There were eighteen words¡­ Yet, they contained an extremely powerful sword intent that matched Qin Yun''s state of mind.


    "Hum¨C"


    The eighteen words resonated with one another as a sword intent was born. It even made the surrounding world faintly resonate in response.


    Desolateness, coldness, lonely solitude¡­


    A powerful sword intent froze on the sheet of paper. It was discernible to the naked eye as it influenced the surrounding world. Thankfully, the area was enveloped by the Two World Picture. The commotion was completely masked.


    "This sword intent?" Qin Yun felt inspired as he strode out of the wooden hut. Flipping his hand, he grasped the Misty Rain Sword and began demonstrating his sword techniques.


    word flashes swirled all around him. The sword moves were originally rather complicated but gradually they tightened up. The sword intent grew stronger and was even more perfect than the sword intent on the paper.


    After practicing for ten minutes, his wits turned keener due to this run of luck. His sword moves completely amalgamated as one.


    With a backhand, he thrust with his sword.


    This strike had the solitary feeling of traveling alone.


    The strike also contained immense indignation, wrath, sadness, and all sorts of other emotions.


    This strike seemed like it could tear open the world, causing the world to submit to him.


    Qin Yun withdrew his sword and stood there. He muttered, "Although the world is huge, where else can I go? This strike is indeed infused with the Sword Dao insights and feelings I have had over the recent years. Its strength is another level above the fourth move of the Dreamlike Sword. This strike can even repress the world itself. It has even gained an inkling of the charm of ''A Sword Forming a Grotto-heaven By Itself.'' However, it is just slightly short of what it could be."


    "Once it truly reaches harmonized perfection, the Sword Dao will be complete and flawless. Only then will it form a Grotto-heaven of its own."


    "This strike of mine is too rich in hate and bloodlust. Although it''s powerful, there''s too much prejudice. However, it has come close to the level of a Skyimmortal. Once my Sword Dao reaches harmonized perfection, my realm will allow me to match a Skyimmortal! My Dao domain will also increase to span fifty kilometers," thought Qin Yun.


    It was indeed very difficult to expand a Dao domain to fifty kilometers.


    For inmove, Patriarch Yi and Patriarch Zhongli, who were both peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm existences, were trapped at that bottleneck. To truly attain perfection in their Dao was very difficult. It had to do with culminating their insights regularly and also the cultivation path they took. For example, some cultivation paths were sidetracked from the beginning! To attain perfection and become a Skyimmortal on such a deviated path? It was not impossible as the Heavenly Dao would always leave behind a tiny opportunity. However, the likelihood was very, very small.


    Qin Yun was the kind that was perfect the moment he stepped into the Dao. His foundation was flawless.


    Bright Moon Cold Nights, Waning Waxing Moons, and the newly created strike all reached the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. It was a slow progress to strengthening them. And now, with the newest strike coming close to that of a Skyimmortal, his strength could repress the world. The destructive force was extremely powerful and it was not far from forming a Grotto-heaven by itself.


    His cultivation met no obstacles due to his perfect path.


    Of course, it was relative.


    It was easier cultivating early on but the cultivation would only become more difficult later.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun waved his hand again and released his flying sword, practicing the strike he had just figured out.


    He wanted to improve it to make it even more perfect.


    He could use this opportunity to have a strength that reached the Skyimmortal realm. But after practicing for another two hours, the sky gradually darkened. Qin Yun also came to a stop.


    "I''ll name the fifth move of the Dreamlike Sword Traveling in Solitude," muttered Qin Yun softly. "I wish for a day when I no longer need to travel in solitude."


    "Since I have created the fifth move, I should take a risk."


    Qin Yun''s eyes flickered with a keen beam. "Just this fifth move alone will not be able to kill Jiwu in a short period of time. I have to rely on the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash!"


    He flipped his hand, producing the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash.


    "I will switch all the Sword Qi contained in the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash to the Sword Qi from Dreamlike Sword''s fifth move, Traveling in Solitude," thought Qin Yun. "If I do that, once the million Sword Qi inside the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash is switched¡­ the power it can produce will nearly double. It''s already very powerful so if it doubles¡­ it will be like the final straw that breaks the camel''s back. I should have a chance of killing him in one shot."


    "I wouldn''t dare say for sure but I''m thinking it''s a seventy percent chance of success."


    "I''ll risk it."


    "If I succeed, I can leave with the treasure."


    "If I fail¡­ I can only escape to my homeworld and wait till my strength improves again before I make further plans," thought Qin Yun. He knew that if he failed in his attack, the enemy would likely hand over the gauntlet to a particular Skyfiend Monarch! If that happened, even if his strength improved greatly in the future, the chances of obtaining the gauntlet would be very low."


    Therefore, this might be his only opportunity.


    "To switch all the Sword Qi in the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash, I will need a year." Qin Yun looked at the calabash and thought, "Perhaps my strength will improve again within a year''s time? I might actually match the Skyimmortal realm?"


    ******


    Clearly, the Skyimmortal realm was not that easily attained.


    Although he came infinitesimally close, he was ultimately a little short of harmonious perfection because he only had deeper insights.


    However, Qin Yun understood that he was constantly improving. There would come a day when he would achieve it naturally.


    Over the next year, Qin Yun resided in the mountain and constantly infused Sword Qi into the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash. The Sword Qi was that of the Dreamlike Sword''s Traveling in Solitude. Of course, just Sword Qi alone was lacking in strength. But with the addition of a million Sword Qi, the number was a massive one. Furthermore, it combined with the array formation within the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash, causing a qualitative change.


    Although he prepared that one strike for a year, it was Qin Yun''s most terrifying attack.


    The seasons passed and in a blink of an eye, it was autumn once again.


    Qin Yun had spent more than a year in the Great Chu world.


    Whoosh! Sword Qi flew out from Qin Yun''s body. It contained the sword intent of Traveling in Solitude, every bit of it containing a horrifying might! It constantly flew into the bronze calabash in front of Qin Yun and was taken in by its internal array formation.


    "The accumulation is done."


    Qin Yun finally stopped as he looked at the bronze calabash in delight.

 371 Set Acquired

    Chapter 371: Set Acquired


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun extended his hand as the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash shrank rapidly and flew to his palm. He then carefully put it away.


    "I''ll first recover my Dharmic powers. I have waited a year for this battle. I can take an additional two hours." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass in front of his wooden hut and silently meditated. Other than draining his Dharmic powers, the releasing of all that Sword Qi drained him mentally.


    About two hours later, the sky turned gloomy as dark clouds gathered a distance away. An impending thunderstorm loomed.


    Qin Yun opened his eyes.


    A vertical eye also opened in his glabella as he looked at distant Fiendcelestial Jiwu''s cave abode through the Eye of Lightning.


    "He''s still refining pills? Good, with his mind on pill refinement, it''s the perfect time to attack." Qin Yun flipped his hand and put away the Two World Picture that had enveloped the mountain for the past year. Then, he took out a dark purple wooden tablet.


    ¡­


    Inside the alchemy chamber.


    There was a gigantic alchemical cauldron with alchemical fires burning vigorously inside.


    By the side of the cauldron was the wrinkled Fiendcelestial Jiwu. He sat cross-legged as he stared at the cauldron. He carefully controlled the cauldron as Fiendcelestial Quzhong had his mouth open, spewing green flames. The green flames'' surface suffused a purple and black light. This was the mark of having gained initial success in the Nine Tunes Divine Fire. If he achieved phenomenal success, it would have nine different colors, making it look like a flame made of nine-colored silk.


    After the Nine Tunes Divine Fire was mixed in, the cauldron''s fire might increased drastically. The cauldron''s interior began to suffuse a red glow.


    "Alright. Stop!" Jiwu suddenly shouted.


    Quzhong immediately sucked, pulling the Nine Tunes Divine Fire back into his stomach. He was somewhat exhausted as he could not help but say, "It''s said that alchemy is complicated. Fire is also categorized as scholastic and martial fires. Scholastic Fires should be used for about ninety percent of the alchemical refinement. So why do you frequently ask me to spew my Nine Tunes Divine Fire¡­ I kind of regret the promise I made."


    "Brother Quzhong, you were the one who agreed to it. Once the pills are done, I''ll give you fifteen percent," said Jiwu with a smile. "Just rest for now. Come back again in five days. Remember, you have to come the instant I summon for you."


    "I understand." Quzhong felt helpless. "I agreed to help you for three years. I will stand by my promise for these three years."


    "Hahaha, there are only two years left¡­ When the time comes, I''ll naturally hand over the pills," said Jiwu with a laugh. He was stronger than Quzhong so he did not believe that Quzhong would not dare to pull a stunt at the critical moment.


    A somewhat exhausted Quzhong left.


    The door to the chamber rumbled to a close as Jiwu quietly continued refining his pills.


    Jiwu was definitely ranked top three in the Great Chu world among all the cultivators of the fiendcelestial lineage, even including the various Monarchs.


    Most fiendcelestials were savage and pursued only strength. As for refining pills and artifacts, many of them were not skilled in such complex and intricate matters. Very few could claim to be alchemical masters.


    When Jiwu was still weak, he had relied on his alchemical attainments to strengthen himself! And now, he had been stuck at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm for ages. Therefore, he put all his efforts into alchemy. Alchemy required the comprehension of various mystical elements¡­ In a way, it was also a cultivation path. And it could facilitate him into truly overcoming the bottleneck to becoming a Skyfiend.


    "Hum." Suddenly, space distorted in the alchemical chamber.


    Although Jiwu''s attention was on the refinement, he was still an expert. How could he not sense the spatial fluctuations?


    "What happened?"


    Jiwu was naturally alarmed as he turned his head.


    He saw a black-dressed youth walk out from the distorted space. The youth held a bronze calabash in his left hand and hisright hand was placed on a stopper. He looked at the wizened and ugly Jiwu.


    "Who are you¡ª" Jiwu immediately stood up. He diverted some attention away from the cauldron as he focused the rest of it on the mysterious black-dressed youth. While speaking, he secretly began activating the array formation of his lair.


    "Pop!"


    Qin Yun''s right hand instantly removed the stopper as he looked coldly at Jiwu.


    "Kill!" At the instant Qin Yun pulled off the stopper, he activated the array formation within the calabash.


    "Boom!"


    Soon, what seemed like countless Sword Qi surged from the mouth of the calabash. The Sword Qi had a terrifying might. It was a lot more terrifying than what Qin Yun had injected. This was because the million Sword Qi had long formed a sword array of pure destruction! Like a maelstrom, it gushed out, joining together to form a much more massive vortex storm. The void shattered wherever it passed.


    They were simply too close to each other.


    All Jiwu could do was lift his palms up. They enlarged, one golden in color and the other scarlet-red. He held them up in front of him like gigantic shields.


    Jiwu had Dharma treasure gauntlets on both hands that allowed him to withstand the Sword Qi storm of destruction but the clothes on his body were instantly torn apart. Although there were fiendish runes circulating across his body, even they began to rupture. Jiwu endured the feeling of being sliced numerous times but he was horrified by the Sword Qi''s might.


    "He''s too powerful! He''s an existence at the Skyfiend realm! It won''t be long before I''m pulverized!" That was Jiwu''s first reaction. The might of the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash made him misjudge Qin Yun''s strength.


    He was so frightened that he did not hesitate to retreat!


    Boom!


    He fled frantically.


    "Boom!" The Sword Qi storm destroyed the chamber as Qin Yun directed it to pursue Jiwu.


    Boom! The world shook. Using all the power of the entire sect''s array formation, winds and clouds gathered instantly. Jiwu released a black chain Dharma treasure. Soon, it turned translucent as it moved around like flowing water, forming a gigantic vortex to fend off the Sword Qi! However¡­ be it his array formation or his Dharma treasure, they were completely overrun by the million Sword Qi.


    However, the Dharma treasure remained undamaged as the array formation''s might constantly empowered it.


    If he had sufficient time, he could constantly drain a million wisps of Sword Qi, eventually reducing its threat. This was because it did not have a way to replenish itself.


    But time was the one thing Jiwu lacked the most!


    He could not withstand the barrage of attacks even with his array formation and Dharma treasure. The Sword Qi inundated Jiwu, causing him to lose layers of flesh and blood.


    "Why would an existence at the Skyfiend realm attack me?" Jiwu was appalled. "I know all the Monarchs in the world but I have never seen him before. Could he be from an Other Realm?"


    As Jiwu fled, he contacted the Monarch he served using his transmission treasure¡ªMonarch Thousand Eyes.


    "Jiwu, what''s the matter?" He heard when he finally made contact.


    "Monarch, a Skyfiend existence has ambushed me," said Jiwu urgently. "He''s in my cave abode. Monarch, please save my life!"


    "A Skyfiend existence?" Monarch Thousand Eyes was shocked as well. "Who is it?"


    "I can''t last much longer," replied Jiwu frantically. "I do not know him. I''m guessing that he comes from another Realm."


    "The Sword Qi storm is just too terrifying." Jiwu instantly came to this realization. "The surrounding space has been frozen and the Sword Qi destroys space itself. I can''t use Void Transference at all. If this continues, I''m doomed."


    "Seal!"


    In order to survive, Jiwu frenetically launched a counteroffensive.


    His body grew rapidly to the point that one foot of his was bigger than the building beneath him. He towered over all, dwarfing even mountains. His palms actually looked like two mountains. One was a golden palm mountain and the other was a red palm mountain. They forcibly intercepted the Sword Qi.


    The millions of Sword Qi turned to strike Jiwu''s massive body, decimating large amounts of flesh and blood.


    "Go!" Jiwu showed no hesitation.


    Sou!


    A blob of sanguine light enveloped his Essence Soul as he abandoned his massive physical body. Instantly he fled at a speed more than ten times what his physical body was capable of.


    When Qin Yun saw this, his eyes lit up. The Sword Qi instantly gave up pursuing Jiwu''s Essence Soul and instead turned to attack one of the arms on Jiwu''s massive body. It caused the golden gauntlet to fly off of it. Without even bothering to refine it for himself, Qin Yun immediately opened the Two World Picture and pulled the golden gauntlet into it.


    "Target acquired." Qin Yun revealed a joyous look. "I''ve finally acquired the last gauntlet! I now have the entire Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set."


    His goal was not to kill Jiwu but to get the gauntlet!


    "What? The Sword Qi storm did not pursue my Essence Soul and instead went for my arm to snatch my gauntlet?" The escaping Jiwu was alarmed. "Could it be that he is the one who murdered Tantong and Yugu?"

 372 Other Realm Daoist Lineage

    Chapter 372: Other Realm Daoist Lineage


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At the instant Qin Yun obtained the last gauntlet while Fiendcelestial Jiwu''s Essence Soul fled¡ª


    Monarch Thousand Eyes had reported the matter to the Empyrean Lord.


    "Empyrean Lord, an Other Realm expert is pursuing one of my fiendcelestials, Jiwu. They are fighting in the region around Jiwu''s cave abode." Monarch Thousand Eyes reported through a transmission. "And that Other Realm expert seems to be at the level of a Skyfiend."


    "He dares to come to my territory and kill a subject of mine?"


    A gigantic body of water surged.


    The body of water rapidly transformed into a silver-haired woman in a silver robe.


    She was the supreme leader of the Great Chu world¡ªEmpyrean Lord Yanshui. Her body was a massive lake and her strength was indisputably the greatest of all the Skyfiends in the Great Chu world! Just her strength alone was able to repress the combined efforts of the other Skyfiends. Therefore, all the other Skyfiends willingly submitted to her.


    In comparison, these Skyfiends were much poorer than the Great Chang world''s Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, Daoist Divine Firmament, and Patriarch Bai! This was because the Daoists and Buddhists, and even the Dragon race, had seniors and masters that did their best to care for their juniors. They would bestow Dharmic formulations and also produce pills and artifacts to help them grow. As for Skyfiends, they rose from the ashes of slaughter. Most of them were incapable of refining pills or artifacts. It was not easy for them to even obtain a single Numinous treasure.


    For instance, although Monarch Thousand Eyes wished to save Jiwu, there was no way to immediately reach him! As for flying normally? It would take ten minutes. Jiwu would be long dead by then!


    As for Void Transference? A treasure that allowed a Skyfiend to undergo Void Transference would be worth a Numinous treasure even if it was a one-time consumable! Ordinary Skyfiends were not that extravagant. Even if they possessed such a treasure, they would use it to protect their own lives! They would not easily use it for the benefit of others.


    "An existence at the Skyfiend level? Such an existence causes an extremely strong repression to the void. There''s no way of escaping." The silver-haired woman''s eyes were cold. "He''s dead because he came to my Great Chu world."


    She flipped her hand and took out a wooden tablet.


    As an Empyrean Lord, her accumulated treasures were greater than those of the average Daoist Skyimmortal or Buddhist Bodhisattva. After all, she lorded over an entire world.


    "Whoosh."


    The wooden tablet shattered as the void warped to form a faint passageway. She took one stride forward.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun obtained the gauntlet, he felt relieved as he watched Jiwu''s Essence Soul escape into the distance.


    "He''s a peak third Firmament Essence Soul fiendcelestial after all. Although he does not appear to have any Numinous treasures, all his treasures added up might be equivalent to one." As Qin Yun controlled the Sword Qi to continue pursuing Jiwu''s Essence Soul, he waved his hand as well.


    ou!


    A wisp of misty rain flew out.


    After his Intrinsic Flying Sword reached the transcendent grade, it had the might of a medial-grade Numinous treasure in Qin Yun''s hands! This also made up for Qin Yun''s lacking Dharmic powers. The wisp of misty rain instantly flew out at a speed much faster than that of the million Sword Qi, and it rapidly closed in on Jiwu''s Essence Soul.


    Before the flying sword even reached Jiwu, the void began freezing. He also felt a biting cold that reached straight to his bone.


    The void froze as the temperature plummeted.


    Jiwu could sense that ice crystals were forming in his blood vessels and organs. Even his fiendish Dharmic powers were beginning to freeze. His speed immediately decreased to about half his original speed.


    It was the Dreamlike Sword''s third move¡ªBright Moon Cold Nights! It slowed him down so that the million Sword Qi rapidly chased up to him.


    "T-This are¡­ Daoist Dharmic powers?" Jiwu was alarmed. "This misty-rain like flying sword clearly has the aura of Daoist Dharmic powers. However, the Dharmic powers aren''t that strong. It''s not at a Skyimmortal''s level. He should be an Essence Soul immortal. Furthermore, this flying sword is much weaker than that Sword Qi storm. It''s about my equal. He''s actually an Essence Soul immortal?"


    As Jiwu commanded the black chain from a distance to block the million Sword Qi, he also released three blood receptacles.


    They were rather abstruse and could barely fend off Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. But the might of the freezing void was decreased.


    "Brother Quzhong, help me fend him off." Jiwu''s Essence Soul flew very quickly, its speed more than enough to chase up to Quzhong.


    "Brother Jiwu, don''t you bring harm to me!" Quzhong panicked.


    "This Quzhong can probably buy me time if he struggles before dying. Perhaps I might survive as a result." Jiwu did not care about Quzhong''s life at all.


    And a distance away.


    "This Jiwu is indeed a fiendcelestial adept at refining pills. But he has rather abstruse means." Qin Yu''s flying sword was unable to gain an advantage over the three blood receptacles for the time being. Instead, he took a stride and appeared in the alchemy chamber and took the alchemical cauldron! It was a cauldron used by Jiwu to refine pills. It was also a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure so Qin Yun obviously took it.


    "This Sword Qi is less than half its original strength. It''s still weakening. Killing Jiwu would probably take several seconds. I can''t risk it anymore. I have to leave now." Qin Yun waved his hand after storing the alchemical cauldron.


    Sou!


    The distant misty rain-like flying sword rapidly flew back to him. Extending his hand, he stored the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Time to go."


    Qin Yun held the dark purple wooden tablet and activated it. Upon activating it, the void distorted as Qin Yun vanished after taking a step forward.


    "He''s gone?" Jiwu''s Essence Soul fled to a distant place and saw the million Sword Qi no longer moving as if commanded, but instead proceed in a straight path. He could not help but feel relieved.


    "Brother Jiwu, you actually managed to escape death." Quzhong stopped trying to escape but instead rapidly approached Jiwu.


    "Haha, Brother Quzhong, just now¡­" Jiwu''s Essence Soul laughed as he willed the chain and three blood receptacles to return to him quickly.


    However, Quzhong suddenly opened his mouth.


    Boom!


    Three-colored flames spewed out.


    It was Quzhong''s Nine Tunes Divine Fire that allowed him to rule over an area. Jiwu''s Essence Soul panicked, "Quzhong, how dare you¡­" At the same time, he released an even weaker white bone sword. However, the Dharma treasure was only toxic and not meant for defense! It could not ensure his wellbeing! The billowing Nine Tunes Divine Fire surged over and rapidly enveloped Jiwu''s Essence Soul as it struggled maniacally amid the flames.


    "Die, all your treasures are now mine." Quzhong laughed hideously.


    Just as the three blood receptacles flew over, their momentum weakened.


    It was because Jiwu''s Essence Soul had been burned to nothingness.


    Jiwu''s death was indeed quite unwarranted.


    As a fiendcelestial, the strongest thing about him was his body! Next were the chain and the three blood receptacles.


    With his body mostly destroyed and his powerful Dharma treasures a distance away¡­ he had fallen at Quzhong''s hands.


    "Retrieve." Quzhong quickly put away the treasures. He had long spread his Dao domain, warping the surroundings and preventing anyone from seeing what had happened.


    "Hehehe, Jiwu¡­ oh Jiwu. You were always the one ordering me around. You probably never expected to die by my hand." Quzhong was excited.


    Just as Quzhong reveled in excitement, space distorted in midair a distance away.


    A terrifying force descended.


    "Oh?" Quzhong immediately turned his head and saw a silver-haired woman step out of the void.


    "Empyrean Lord." Quzhong immediately bowed reverently.


    "Where''s the Other Realm expert?" inquired the woman.


    "He has fled," answered Quzhong immediately. "However, I discovered that the person is a legendary Daoist cultivator. Furthermore, he is only at the Essence Soul realm."


    "He''s not a Skyimmortal, but at the Essence Soul realm?" The silver-haired woman frowned.


    "Yes," replied Quzhong immediately. "I saw him controlling a flying sword Dharma treasure as well. It''s unmistakable that he has Daoist Dharmic powers. Furthermore, the Dharma treasure he used was equivalent to the Dharma treasure that Jiwu used! If not for the countless Sword Qi, Jiwu would not have been killed."


    He did not really lie.


    If not for the million Sword Qi, he would not have had the chance to kill Jiwu.


    "Essence Soul realm? He could produce strength at the Skyimmortal realm with a Dharma treasure?" The woman''s eyes lit up. Her psyche perception enveloped every spot of the Great Chu world but many places had isolated themselves from psyche probing.


    "Since he is at the Essence Soul realm, he will not be able to go too far even with Void Transference Dharma treasures. He should be within twenty-five hundred kilometers. There''s no way he can exceed five thousand kilometers."


    The woman knew this very well.


    The further one teleported through a Void Transference Dharma treasure, the greater the price. Teleporting a mortal, an Essence Soul, or a Skyimmortal had different costs.


    Dharma treasures that teleported Essence Souls¡­ typically only went up to fifteen hundred kilometers. Twenty-five hundred kilometers was quite rare. As for five thousand kilometers, it was seriously not worth it.


    "Boom!"


    The woman''s Essence Soul was too terrifying as her psyche instigated the Heaven and Earth powers, forcibly repressing the array formations of some sects to proceed with her investigations.


    As for the few fiendcelestials with powerful array formations that she could not repress due to the distance, she immediately ordered through a voice transmission, "Deactivate your array formation! Do not resist!"


    An order by the Empyrean Lord was not something the various fiendcelestials dared to disobey.


    "Oh?"


    The silver-haired woman quickly discovered a spot within twenty-five hundred kilometers. It was being isolated by a Dao domain and had ignored her voice transmission.


    "There is only one spot within twenty-five hundred kilometers that dares to disobey my order." A cold glint flashed in her eyes. "There he is."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was attempting to sense the exact location of his homeworld''s Void Altar over the great distance in a bid to open a void passageway. A passageway that could accommodate a mortal was relatively simple to find. However, the distance between the Great Chang world and Great Chu world was rather far. He could not open a void passageway in one stroke like Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Boom!


    A powerful psyche was beginning to eclipse him. Qin Yun''s Dao domain only enveloped five kilometers around him but was able to easily withstand the psyche''s probe.


    "Deactivate your array formation! Do not resist!" A terrifying transmission rang out. For the fiendcelestials of the Great Chu world, they naturally knew it was the Empyrean Lord.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "I have to leave this Great Chu world now." With Qin Yun''s grasp of the void, he could sense a few nearby worlds. He directly locked onto one of them. "I''ll make a transfer in this world first."


    "Time to go."


    Since it was a short distance, opening a void passageway was much easier.


    Rip!


    He tore apart a void rift that directly connected to another world. A passageway that could accommodate a mortal formed.


    Qin Yun took a step forward and rapidly entered. After he entered, the powerful psyche filled the area without the Dao domain''s resistance. It quickly enveloped the void rift.


    "A void passageway?"


    The silver-haired woman who was about to cast a second round of Void Transference stopped. She grimaced. "How is it possible? How is it possible to create a void passageway to accommodate a third Firmament Essence Soul in such a short amount of time?"


    Mortals were just one step away from the Essence Soul realm but it meant a world of difference.


    A first Firmament Essence Soul would cause a huge burden to a void passageway if they wanted to go from one world to another, much less a third Firmament who had matched Fiendcelestial Jiwu.


    "Impossible. Only mortals can escape through a void passageway so easily in this world. But how can a mortal''s strength match that of Jiwu? He even used a treasure to produce the strength of a Skyimmortal?" The silver-haired woman frowned. "Could it be a reincarnated Other Realm Daoist lineage Skyimmortal? In that case, he could travel the various worlds with a mortal body to plunder treasures..."


    "Skyimmortals already have eternal life. Yet, he reincarnates? It appears as though there''s a huge conspiracy at play."


    The silver-haired woman''s eyes were cold. "A reincarnated Skyimmortal from an Other Realm Daoist lineage. A mortal who uses a flying sword. And he has a mysterious treasure that can release countless Sword Qi? Hmph, pray that I''m unable to learn your identity¡­"

 373 Passing by a World

    Chapter 373: Passing by a World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun found a world close to the Great Chu world before tearing open the void rift. After producing a void passageway that could fit a mortal, he immediately went through it like fish in water, considering how good he was at controlling the void.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun tore through the spatial passageway and appeared in a courtyard. The first thing he noticed were flowering peach trees lining the courtyard.


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded his head slightly once he reached the world. "This world''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi is filled with vibrancy. The cultivators here should be more inclined to Daoism! However, in terms of richness, it''s weaker than my homeworld. Cultivating here should be harder than it is at home."


    He heard sounds coming from around him.


    "Quick, to your positions! The enemy is here!"


    "Come to the grand hall. Quickly!"


    "Today is the day that determines whether our Thousand Feather Sect survives or not. If the sect is destroyed, none of us will escape the Fire Cloud Sect''s ruthlessness."


    There were angry shouts everywhere.


    Qin Yun walked out of the courtyard rather perplexed. He saw figures of all sexes and ages flying forward. However, he only saw Postnatal realms at a glance. Qin Yun simply maintained his Divine Concealment Spell and walked out.


    "Heh heh." Qin Yun looked into the distance. He was situated high on a mountain. From afar, he could see the empty square in front of a grand hall. Large groups of disciples were gathered there and there was no lack of Connate realms.


    And in midair, there were three fiery-red battleships, each one filled with a large number of experts.


    The battleships'' experts were clearly from the same faction.


    Gathered in front of the grand hall beneath him was another faction.


    Both factions were in a standoff, with battle imminent.


    "My luck isn''t bad," thought Qin Yun. "Although I opened a random void passageway in a panic and dropped right into a sect, it''s only a mortal sect! It doesn''t even have an Essence Soul realm."


    If his luck was bad, he could have been sent straight into a Skyfiend''s cave abode. That sure would be ironic.


    However, Qin Yun had come to this world because he sensed that it did not oppose him. To chance upon a Skyimmortal or Skyfiend''s lair in such a huge world? That probability was extremely low.


    ¡­


    At that moment, both factions were nearly at each other''s throats.


    "Your Thousand Feather Sect has only one choice now." Standing on the battleship in the middle, a red-robed elder''s voice reverberated through the world. "That is to submit to my Fire Cloud Sect. If you are willing to do so, I will establish a hall branch especially for you! From then on, you would be my Fire Cloud Sect''s Thousand Feather Hall. You can still enjoy comfort and riches. You will even have more than you presently have."


    "Fire Cloud Heretic Fiend, dream on." A plump bald elder standing ahead of the numerous disciples in front of the hall roared, "Me, let my Thousand Feather Sect associate with evil like your Fire Cloud Sect? When we die in the future, how would we face our sect ancestors?"


    "Fire Cloud Heretic Fiend, I urge you to repent. If not, with the Heavenly Dao''s Samsara and the karmic implications, you will receive retribution one day," shouted another elder to the side.


    "My Thousand Feather Sect has been established for eight hundred years. How can we submit to a heretic fiend like you?"


    The upper echelons shouted such things angrily.


    Among the disciples, there were a few trembling disciples who had the thought of surrendering but they could only go with the crowd.


    "Old Fool Zhou, think through it carefully," said the red-robed elder with a scoff. "I hold great power in this world. I will not only vanquish one sect. If you insist on fighting, you will only drag the entire sect down with you. You old fogies might have lived long enough but those disciples of yours are young lads and petite young lasses. They are too young. If we really come to blows, you do know my temper. When the time comes, I will flatten the Thousand Feather Sect, leaving no stone unturned."


    "In destroying my Thousand Feather Sect, I believe quite a number of your Fire Cloud Sect would die as well," shouted the bald elder. "To destroy my Thousand Feather Sect, I estimate you will lose twenty percent of your experts. If you continue on to destroy five more sects, your Fire Cloud Sect would be finished."


    "There are many willing to submit to my Fire Cloud Sect. Besides, destroying your Thousand Feather Sect wouldn''t lead to that many deaths." The red-robed elder looked to his side. "Light the incense."


    "Yes." A subordinate beside him lit an incense stick.


    "I''m giving you the time it takes for this incense stick to burn. Think through it carefully," said the red-robbed elder nonchalantly. His voice resounded above the Thousand Feather Sect. "If you do not submit to me in that time, your Thousand Feather Sect will end when the incense does."


    With that, the red-robed elder did not say another word.


    There was a stir among the disciples in front of the grand hall.


    "An incense stick to mark the time?"


    Qin Yun looked at the scene. He was just a passer-by in this world, only using it as a transfer point. He was returning to his homeworld almost immediately so he did not wish to involve himself in this situation. The battle between sects only led to mutual destruction. He could not be caught up in it.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun immediately flew up into the sky.


    "Oh?" No one in the area had moved except Qin Yun who flew out of the Thousand Feather Sect. Therefore, he immediately attracted the attention of everyone.


    "Who is that man? Why is he flying out of our Thousand Feather Sect?"


    "We don''t know him. He''s not a member of our sect. Senior Sister, is he here to rob out sect? Should we apprehend him?"


    "We don''t even know if we will survive this day. Since he''s only a stranger, forget it."


    "Yes, Senior Sister."


    Two core disciples who were standing closer to the front lines communicated through a voice transmission.


    ¡­


    When Fire Cloud Sect Master saw this, he frowned slightly. Immediately, with his battleship as the center, an array formation activated, producing a gigantic fiery-red cloud that enveloped the entire airspace above the Thousand Feather Sect.


    "If you do not submit to me, not a single one of you can even think about escaping. Not even a cat or dog can escape me, much less a person," said Fire Cloud Sect Master coldly. His voice reverberated through the area.


    "Sect Master, that person isn''t from the Thousand Feather Sect." A youth whispered in a fawning manner beside him.


    "He''s not from the Thousand Feather Sect?" Fire Cloud Sect Master frowned slightly. "Then, there''s no need for him to be alive."


    Boom!


    The massive fiery-red cloud descended upon like an inferno, sweeping straight at Qin Yun.


    Standing in midair, Qin Yun shot a glance at the red-robed elder, Fire Cloud Sect Master. Instantly, a third eye opened in Qin Yun''s glabella.


    The instant the Eye of Lightning opened, the flames that surged towards Qin Yun froze in midair.


    "A Heavenly Eye divine power?" Fire Cloud Sect Master''s expression changed instantly.


    "Fellow Daoist, might I ask which sect you hail from? I''m Fire Cloud. Sorry for any offense. Please do not fault me. I was only anxious to settle my problem with the Thousand Feather Sect. Once this matter is over, I will be sure to send gifts to apologize to you." Fire Cloud Sect Master said loudly. Someone who had mastered a Heavenly Eye divine power was naturally not to be trifled with.


    Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning took him in.


    The black sinful aura around Fire Cloud Sect Master was frightening. He even had a sliver of a sanguine glow. The subordinates beside him were also covered in sinful auras. The ones with less sinful auras on the battleship numbered less than twenty.


    "He has nearly reached the point of a Sinful Sanguine Halo?" Qin Yun was appalled. "What did he do to amass so much sin?"


    "Die!"


    Qin Yun naturally could not be bothered to pursue the matter.


    Since the person wanted to kill him without any discrimination and his sins were astounding, Qin Yun naturally showed no mercy. He extended his hand and struck out into the distance.


    "Boom!" A gigantic palm condensed in midair and, upon striking, it left Fire Cloud Sect Master and the subordinates around him trembling in fear.


    "Aren''t you afraid of the tribulations?" roared Fire Cloud Sect Master.


    "I''m a Thousand Feather Sect disciple!" shouted a youth standing beside Fire Cloud Sect Master.


    "Bam!"


    The gigantic palm delivered its strike, pulverizing Fire Cloud Sect Master and the surrounding nineteen people.


    All of them perished instantly.


    "I''m really not afraid of the tribulations," muttered Qin Yun softly. He did not care about the matters of this world to begin with. But since they had tried to stop him and his Eye of Lightning saw such sinfulness on them, he might as well vanquish such a heinous fiend!


    The surrounding Fire Cloud Sect experts, as well as the disciples of the Thousand Feather Sect, were astounded. All of them were dumbstruck!


    "Time to leave."


    Sou!


    Qin Yun smiled and transformed into a stream of light. With a flash, he disappeared across the horizon.


    As for the Thousand Feather Sect and Fire Cloud Sect, they were left in somewhat of a daze.


    "Sect Master is dead! Deputy Sect Master is dead! The Grand Protectors are dead too!"


    "Quickly flee!"


    "Quick, flee!"


    With the top powerhouses destroyed, the three battleships immediately began escaping.


    The Thousand Feather Sect instantly boiled over in excitement.


    "He destroyed the heretic fiends of the Fire Cloud Sect with a flip of his hand." The bald elder took out a calabash and could not help but take two swigs from it. He shook his head and marveled, "Impressive. He''s probably a cultivation expert that has already stepped into the Dao."


    "An expert that has stepped into the Dao?"


    "Furthermore, the Dao he has stepped into is at an extremely high realm. He probably has a chance of condensing an Essence Soul to have eternal life." Three elders heaped praises on Qin Yun. The difficulty of condensing an Essence Soul in this world was much harder than in Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    The disciples behind them were in rapturous joy.


    After all, the huge calamity that was bearing down on them was over.


    "Senior Sister, thankfully we did not apprehend him."


    "I didn''t even think about capturing him. I even stopped you. You really thought that the senior was a thief."


    "I''m in charge of discipline after all."


    The duo discussed over a voice transmission. However, their eyes were filled with envy. When would they cultivate to a stage that allowed them to vanquish Fire Cloud Heretic Fiend with a flip of a hand?

 374 I Finally Found You!

    Chapter 374: I Finally Found You!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun flew four hundred kilometers away before entering a barren desert. The sheer vastness of the desert made it difficult to spot a single person in it all. Only then did Qin Yun descend.


    "My trip to the Great Chu world was quite an eventful one with some near misses but nothing too dangerous. I finally obtained the pair of Dharma treasure gauntlets. It''s time to return." Qin Yun sensed the Void Altar that had been set up in his homeworld from afar. After he created the fifth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Traveling in Solitude, Qin Yun''s grasp of the void was deeply profound. He sensed the Void Altar even clearer than before.


    "Open!"


    Qin Yun tapped with his finger as a wisp of misty rain instantly tore through the void.


    Rip!


    A void rift appeared.


    However, it only barely established a connection with his homeworld. The passageway was only strong enough to transmit information and energy, but nothing physical.


    Whoosh! As Qin Yun kept the connection going, he cast his flying sword out, widening the void passageway and making it more stable.


    After about thirty seconds, Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "That''s enough, time to leave!"


    He instantly stored away his flying sword as he quickly transformed into a beam of light and burrowed in. He did not dare hesitate! This was because the spatial void passageway was constantly shrinking. It would close completely after some time.


    ¡­


    Like a fish, he swiftly traveled through the constantly changing and narrowing void passageway. The surrounding void pressed down on him but he still managed to proceed quickly and deftly.


    Finally, his eyes lit up as he tore through the end of the passageway. He had appeared in a sealed hall. There was a ten-foot-wide golden altar there, and it was clearly the hall he had set off from.


    "I''m back." Qin Yun finally relaxed completely.


    "Rumble." The door to the hall suddenly opened from the outside. Daoist Divine Firmament, dressed in a Daoist robe with a tall headdress, as well as a light yellow-robed Human Emperor entered together. They looked smilingly at him.


    Although Qin Yun had met Human Emperor many times, it was only his avatar.


    "Hahaha, Qin Yun. Congratulations," said Human Emperor.


    "From the way you are beaming, you must have succeeded," added Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "I was nearly caught. The person that took action at the end was the Great Chu world''s Empyrean Lord," said Qin Yun. "Thankfully, I did not linger in battle after obtaining the gauntlet. I fled quickly and still only barely escaped."


    "Empyrean Lord?"


    Human Emperor and Ancestral Master Zhang exchanged looks. That was a terrifying existence that even they feared.


    "That''s an existence at least at the fourth Firmament Skyfiend level, perhaps even stronger. After all, she is able to suppress a group of Skyfiends," said Human Emperor regretfully. "Even we wouldn''t be her match if we encountered her. Did you see her face?"


    "No, I was still thousands of kilometers away. If I saw her face, I probably wouldn''t be here talking to you right now," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Ancestral Master Zhang threw a Cosmic Bag to Qin Yun. "Your treasures. It''s time they return to their owner."


    "Thank you, Senior Zhang." Qin Yun received it, opened it, and took a look. Nothing was missing. Qin Yun immediately took out the other parts of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor set.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    All the parts began to join and organize themselves.


    Qin Yun threw the Heart-Protecting Mirror and the two gauntlets he brought back over to them.


    Instantly, there was a perfect golden-armor floating in midair. It had gauntlets, combat boots, a helm, etc. Everything was there. Looking from the back, it looked like a living golden-armored Godfiend. When the Numinous treasure was completed, it also emitted a terrifying aura.


    "Nice treasure." Ancestral Master Zhang commented upon seeing it. "With Old Bai''s personality, I believe he will want to buy it. The amount of treasures he has is probably enough."


    "Skydemon has also long wanted such a set," said Human Emperor.


    "Can I sell it for more than three inferior-grade Numinous treasures?" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    "Don''t get your hopes up," said Human Emperor with a laugh. "It''s only worth three inferior-grade Numinous treasures. It would be sold for that rate in another world as well. Although Skydemon wants something like it, she might not be willing to buy it because of the high price! Her treasures are all being used in other areas."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The expenditure of treasures on the cultivation path had a natural inclination towards certain aspects.


    For instance, he used to put nurturing his Intrinsic Flying Sword above all else! Now, ever since he needed to accumulate Numinous treasures, he did not dare to spend resources constantly nurturing his Intrinsic Flying Sword. People like Skydemon and Patriarch Bai, they also definitely had their hierarchy of choices¡­ A Numinous treasure armor that could protect them would usually have lower priority! This was because the protection of one''s body could be achieved through other means.


    "Do you think Skyimmortals and Skydemons are all rich?" Human Emperor shook his head. "Gathering the two or three Numinous treasures that work best for them makes them poor."


    "That''s right. However, those Skyfiends who fight each other are even poorer. I have seen a Skyfiend who does not even have one inferior-grade Numinous treasure. They fight purely with their physical bodies," quipped Ancestral Master Zhang. "For instance, your Earth-shattering Stellar Armor is a superior-grade Numinous treasure. One of those matches ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures."


    "That was obtained by my Godfiend lineage''s predecessors. I only inherited it," responded Human Emperor.


    Qin Yun stood to the side, listening with a smile. At the same time, he put away the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor into his Cosmic Bag.


    He secretly thought, "The Empyrean Lord Divine Armor is counted as three inferior-grade Numinous treasures. Then I have the Cosmic Bangles, the Heart Stirring Bell, and the Space-shattering Halberd. In total, that''s six. To get more treasures like these, I will need a huge opportunity. I would truly have to comb the world slowly. The lost Numinous treasures in the Great Chang world are extremely few in number. Other humans and even demons are also constantly searching for them as well. It won''t be that easy for me to find one."


    From his own experience, the Ancient Skydragon Palace was a rare opportunity. Immortal Cloudgrace''s cave abode was his first opportunity after searching the world for fifteen years.


    After discovering the secret of the Empyrean Lord Divine Armor parts¡­ he directly went to the Great Chu world. He narrowly escaped and managed to obtain the treasures.


    He needed opportunities, strength, and to take risks!


    "I still have quite a bit of treasure on me. The Two World Picture, the alchemical cauldron, etc. There''s also some of the treasures I obtained from exchanging the Other Realm Skyfiend''s corpse. Although I used up some while nurturing my flying sword and setting up the array formations in the family manor, my remaining treasures should amount to one Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun.


    "Even if I sell everything I have, I''ll only make enough for one Numinous treasure. Counting the six from before¡­ I''m still short three." Qin Yun shook his head in silence.


    "Qin Yun, what do you plan on doing next?" asked Human Emperor with a smile.


    "Your Majesty," said Qin Yun. "My trip to the Great Chu world also gave me a chance to pass by another world on my way back. I feel that¡­ although I''m unfamiliar with other worlds, intelligence can be slowly gathered. One good thing about going to other worlds is that they do not know anything about me! Since it''s difficult to obtain any huge opportunities in our homeworld, I think I''ll head to the other worlds to continue the search."


    "They know nothing about me and aren''t wary of mortals, giving me a chance," said Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and Human Emperor were slightly taken aback.


    "You are in that much of a rush?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "Every day I delay only further endangers Xiaoxiao."


    "Your Majesty, Senior Zhang, without any delay, I bid you farewell." Qin Yun looked at the Void Altar to the side. "I''ll temporarily leave this Void Altar here in the Divine Firmament Chapter."


    "It''s safest in Divine Firmament Chapter." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded.


    ¡­


    Sou!


    Qin Yun streaked across the sky.


    He first made a trip to Grand Dominance.


    High above Grand Dominance, Qin Yun overlooked the city. He saw Qin Shuyan and his wife disciplining a fifteen-year-old youth.


    "This is Shuyan''s child?" Qin Yun watched. "He got so big in a blink of an eye. If my daughter grew up safely, she''s probably around his age."


    He fell into thought for a while as he overlooked the area before wiping those thoughts away.


    Qin Yun took a look at his family. And after confirming that his parents were well, he turned and flew off.


    ¡­


    According to plan, Qin Yun intended to spend a year filling the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s Sword Qi to the brim. Then, he would head to the Ancient Skydragon Palace to make another attempt at cleaning it out. Now that his strength had risen, he wished to see if he could use the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s strength to crack the core array formation and obtain the final treasures in the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    Regardless of how much success he had there, he had to head to other worlds to continue the search as long as he was short on Numinous treasures.


    "The ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures will be gathered."


    Qin Yun continued traveling the world.


    During that one year, other than infusing the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash with Sword Qi, he would also continue the search for treasure troves. Although he innately believed that it was very unlikely, who knew? Perhaps he might find another treasure trove!


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, it was the third month since Qin Yun''s return.


    That day, Qin Yun flew through the clouds as he watched a distant city. He habitually opened the third eye in his glabella. The Eye of Lightning looked at the city from afar.


    "Whoosh."


    The Eye of Lightning swept through the area.


    He quickly discovered the strongest auras in the city. One of them was especially eye-catching.


    "I never expected there to be a Connate Golden Core. He has quite a strong aura too." Qin Yun was rather surprised when he did his cursory sweep. But when he looked carefully, his expression changed!


    His face flushed red as his body trembled slightly.


    He looked in disbelief at the man in the city hundreds of kilometers away.


    "He Qian!!!" Qin Yun squeezed the two words out through his clenched teeth. All the blood in him seemed to boil over as his eyes turned red. "I''ve finally found you!"

 375 God, I Promise You

    Chapter 375: God, I Promise You


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    He Qian was the fiendish demon that had opened the world passageway years ago. The two reincarnated immortals, Eighth Zhu and Ninth Hong, failed to stop him despite their collective efforts. Eventually, Qin Yun came to their aid and sent He Qian retreating in panic.


    Later on, He Qian came back, entering the West Sea Dragon Palace under orders to abduct Qin Yun''s wife, Yi Xiao. He even announced to the world that he had killed Yi Xiao, deeming it punishment for Qin Yun''s decimation of fiendish demons!


    "You changed your looks and even your vital aura. But do you think you can fool me?" Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning stared intently at the lanky white-robed man hundreds of kilometers away. "I can tell at a glance that your body is really that of a mountain! How many people in this world are at the Connate Golden Core realm while having a mountain body? Besides, I can see the karma ties between us very clearly!"


    While Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning carefully observed the man, he noticed that there were many karma ties between them. However, those ties only extended out to three feet. Beyond that range, they turned into an indiscernible blur.


    Clearly, there was a Dharmic formulation or treasure concealing the karma.


    If the karma ties were not concealed, powerful experts could trace him from Qin Yun''s end of the karma ties! If one pursued the karma tie of his wife''s abduction, one could find the enemy. However, once it was concealed, there was no way to track him down.


    "That blood-colored karma tie." Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning instantly noticed that one of the karma ties was related to him.


    When he looked carefully, there were various scenes in the karma tie. It was scenes of He Qian and Qin Yun that were filled with hate.


    "Qin Yun, how dare you wreck my plans!"


    "Hahaha, I will separate you from your wife and child!"


    "And that''s only the beginning. Wait and see. I will let you know what it means to feel pain and despair!" He Qian''s expression looked grotesque and frenzied in one particular scene.


    There was also scenes of Qin Yun.


    "There will come a day when I will capture you by my own hand. I will make you wish you were dead!"


    "He Qian! I will definitely find you. Definitely!"


    "Xiaoxiao!"


    ¡­


    The hate they shared was contained in the karma ties.


    "It''s been almost seventeen years."


    "The Heavens have eyes, allowing me to finally find him," thought Qin Yun.


    "Xiaoxiao, as long as I capture him alive and interrogate him, I will have a chance of rescuing you. We will then be reunited. And I can finally meet my daughter too." Qin Yun was feeling uneasy at that moment because he had no idea about the current state of his wife and daughter. He did not even know if his daughter had been born safely.


    Qin Yun retrieved a purple jade Dao talisman from his Cosmic Bag.


    The Dao talisman was the most precious Dao talisman in Qin Yun''s possession! The moment he activated it, it would freeze the void within the surrounding hundred and fifty kilometers. The enemy would be prevented from using Void Transference nor could they tear open a void passageway to escape.


    Back when Qin Yun exchanged the Other Realm Skyfiend''s corpse as an inferior-grade Numinous treasure, he benefited greatly from Ancestral Master Zhang. For example, he got many Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills, Void Transference talismans, Void Freezing talismans, Divine Firmament Escape talismans, treasures needed to nurture his flying sword, and protective arrays. Although he had already used a number of them, he still had many of it in his possession.


    "Regardless of what happens, I cannot let him escape," thought Qin Yun. "But the third move of my Dreamlike Sword, Bright Moon Cold Nights is able to freeze the void. Unless utterly necessary, I do not need to use this Dao talisman."


    Sou!


    Qin Yun flew towards the city in the clouds. His Eye of Lightning was constantly fixated on He Qian. He did not dare move his eye away from He Qian for even one second, afraid that he would escape and be lost forever!


    ¡­


    Mt. Yu County City.


    A disguised He Qian was standing in front of the patriarch of Mt. Yu County City''s largest family clan, Patriarch Gan. They sat down and were having a casual chat over tea.


    "Brother Gan, have you captured that Jing fellow?" asked He Qian.


    "Not yet. He ended up escaping. But Elder Qu mentioned that he has been inflicted with a fatal poison. Even if he doesn''t die, he will be crippled. A cripple poses no threat to my Gan family. There is no need for us to continue targeting him." Patriarch Gan could not help but say, "To be honest, we went a bit too far by using his parents'' life to coerce him and having his entire family wiped out! Sigh, why did I pass the command back then? I probably lost my mind in my rage."


    He Qian smiled the moment he heard that. "Brother Gan, what sort of things are truly impossible in the cultivation world? He might recover his strength one day. I think there''s no need to be softhearted. You have to get rid of the problem at its roots."


    "Get rid of the problem at its roots." Patriarch Gan''s eyes began turning turbid.


    "He has to be captured at all costs. If this drags out, it would be difficult to capture him once he escapes," said He Qian.


    "Captured at all costs¡­" Patriarch Gan muttered softly.


    He Qian smiled faintly.


    Patriarch Gan''s eyes gradually turned limpid again.


    "Brother Gan, it will be troublesome if he escapes," said He Qian.


    "How can we let him escape?" Patriarch Gan''s eyes immediately flared with bloodlust. He said, "This scourge has to be ripped out at the roots!"


    "Men!"


    Patriarch Gan immediately gave the order.


    Soon after, the Gan family''s men and the Sovereign Mountain Sect that the Gan family controlled immediately began a widespread search inside and outside the city under the orders of Patriarch Gan.


    ¡­


    He Qian leisurely bade farewell to Patriarch Gan. In Mt. Yu City, he quickly found a gray-dressed youth hiding in a remote residence. He was poisoned and his clothes were dirty. He looked wretched and he was starving.


    "Open the door!"


    The Gan family''s men were searching the residences one by one.


    "They came all the way here?" The youth''s expression turned pale as his eyes were filled with pain and hatred. "Gan family. I''m already crippled and my entire family has been wiped out, leaving me as the only person barely alive. Yet, you still aren''t sparing me? I did so many things for your Gan family and could be considered a good slave. You treated me so ruthlessly just moments after I chanced upon a rare encounter!"


    "This is going too far!" The youth escaped from the back door as he carefully dodged his pursuers.


    The men from Gan family were searching but for some unknown reason¡­ they would always narrowly brush past the gray-dressed youth.


    "Heh heh." He Qian watched in secret as he orchestrated everything. He had the means to easily influence these foolish mortals.


    ¡­


    "Strange." High in the clouds, about five kilometers away, Qin Yun was watching all of this with his Eye of Lightning. He secretly frowned. "He Qian first used a Dharmic formulation that spellbinds that Patriarch Gan to influence him. Then he deliberately allows the pursuers to find the gray-dressed youth but also helps him escape time and time again? Is he deliberately toying with the youth?"


    "From what I heard, the gray-dressed youth''s name is Jing Fei, formerly a servant of the Gan family. He had luckily knocked open the gate of immortality to become a cultivator," thought Qin Yun. "Why would He Qian, a powerful fiendish demon, spend this much effort on someone like him?"


    He Qian was once a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm fiendcelestial! He could be used in even more ways after infiltrating the Great Chang world.


    Logically speaking, he should have been very careful, afraid of being exposed.


    But at that moment, he was scheming against a very ordinary mortal youth, one that was even crippled. It appeared very peculiar.


    ¡­


    The sky darkened.


    The gray-dressed youth wandered around for most of the day like a lost mongrel before he escaped into a poor neighborhood.


    "That betrayer, Jing Fei, is right in front of us!"


    "He must be in this region. Seek him out!"


    Large numbers of people began searching.


    Jing Fei fled into a rundown temple in panic. There was a broken water jar in the temple. Jing Fei was starving and thirsty so he rushed straight to the water jar to scoop up some of the remnant water in it. However, he paused when he saw his reflection in the water.


    "Is this me?" Jing Fei looked at himself.


    He was dirty and disheveled. His eyes looked exhausted.


    He had become a cripple and could not even be compared to an ordinary human being. He was now starving and thirsty. People were pursuing him too. He did not have any relatives either as his entire family was wiped out. At that moment, the final straw broke the camel''s back!


    "Hahaha. Hahaha! The Gan family wishes me dead? Haha! Fine, fine!" Jing Fei said with tears streaming down his face. "It''s you who forced me!"


    He was a person that was mortally afraid of death to begin with.


    As long as there was a sliver of a chance for survival, he would continue his abject existence.


    But he no longer had a way out.


    Jing Fei took out a tiny wooden figurine.


    "God! I promise you but I have a request. I want every member of the Gan family to die," said Jing Fei to the wooden figurine in his hand.


    He Qian stood on a rooftop far away but people seemed oblivious to his existence. He Qian looked at the wooden figurine and could not help but smile. "It''s finally here."


    And high in the clouds, Qin Yun saw it all with his Eye of Lightning. His heart tightened when he saw the situation develop to this point. At the same time, he was perplexed. "God, I promise you? Calling a wooden figurine God? What is He Qian scheming?"

 376 Great Chang world, Here I Am!

    Chapter 376: Great Chang world, Here I Am!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was high up in the clouds, spying on the city below as he took the opportunity to understand the plot that was unfolding.


    Beneath him was Jing Fei, who was reeling in despair and clutching the wooden figurine in his hand. The wooden figurine''s mouth began moving, spewing out human speech, "Do you not have any regrets?"


    "Haha, my life is worse than death. What''s there to regret?" said Jing Fei crazily. "I want everyone in the Gan family to die. I also want all of the Sovereign Mountain Sect to perish."


    "The Gan family can be easily destroyed but the Sovereign Mountain Sect has been established for a thousand years. Its disciples are scattered all across the world. It''s difficult to kill all of them. I can only promise you that I will flatten its territory," continued the wooden figurine.


    "Alright." Jing Fei nodded. "That would do."


    "Then let''s begin," said the wooden figurine. At the same time, a rift slowly split open in the air above him as though curtains had been pulled. It revealed a figure in another world with fluttering, otherworldly-looking clothes. As it was night time and He Qian was casting his Dharma spells on the side to secretly conceal everything, no one from the Gan family or Sovereign Mountain Sect discovered the void rift despite being in the vicinity.


    "God." Jing Fei looked feverishly at the otherworldly figure.


    "You and I were connected by fate half a year ago. The more you offered, the more I helped. Since you are willing to offer your life this time, I will help avenge you," said the otherworldly figure. At the same time, with a gentle pointing of its finger, a stream of light tore through the void and entered Jing Fei''s mind. "All you need to do is recite this hex incantation and you will completely offer up your life. Don''t worry, it will not be painful in any way."


    "Alright."


    Starving and thirsty, the despairing Jing Fei had a grotesque expression on his face. He began to recite the hex incantation.


    It began stirring his soul.


    Very soon, Jing Fei''s soul left his physical body and the Heavenly Dao''s circulation naturally led him towards Samsara.


    His body immediately slumped to the ground and no longer drew breath.


    "Hahaha¡­" He Qian took a step forward and appeared alongside the body. He looked up at the void rift with a smile. "It has finally succeeded. Moquan, congratulations!"


    "It''s all thanks to you, Brother Wuha." By the side, the otherworldly figure rapidly transformed into a faint but evil fiendcelestial figure.


    "Quickly begin your reincarnation. I will watch the surroundings for you," said He Qian.


    "Alright," Moquan answered immediately.


    Following that, a black stream of light flew out from the fiendcelestial''s forehead. It arduously tunneled through the void rift. This was a distance further than Qin Yun''s trip from the Great Chang world to the Great Chu world! Furthermore, the black stream of light¡­ was extremely weak! It was not even a soul. Instead, it was the vital essence that was produced when a fiendcelestial cast the Spell of Reincarnation. However, there was a layer of fiendcelestial powers that protected it on its trip over!


    "Whoosh."


    The black stream of light finally tore through the distant void obstruction and descended into the world. Immediately, its appearance in the world caused a rumble in the sky.


    Sou!


    The black light instantly bore into Jing Fei''s body, causing the tribulation clouds that were beginning to gather in the sky to dissipate.


    Jing Fei''s eyes suddenly opened while the corners of his mouth curved into an excited smile, "Great Chang world, here I am!"


    He stood up.


    "Moquan, congratulations," said He Qian with a smile. "It was still faster doing it my way. You remained unsuccessful despite going through all that trouble for half a year. It took me just three days to force this human mortal to willingly give up his body."


    "There wasn''t much I could do. I was in another world and could only entice this human from afar. I was unable to control other people either," said ''Jing Fei.'' "Who knows how long it will have taken if I slowly enticed him? I had no choice but to seek your help. After all, you can easily control others. See, it was done in three days. I know you caused a huge stir in this world. The Skyimmortal and Skygod of this world wish to capture you. I heard that Sword Immortal Qin Yun hates you to the bone too. Don''t worry, now that I''m here, all the trifling matters can be left to me. There''s no need for you to appear anymore."


    "I''ve changed my aura and concealed myself from the heavens. It''s impossible for them to find me! Even if they see me, they probably won''t even recognize me." He Qian was


    confident.


    Indeed.


    People like Ancestral Master Zhang, Patriarch Bai, Human Emperor, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa would not scour the world for him, nor would they search around with the Heavenly Eye over and over again!


    Only Qin Yun would be crazy enough to do so because of his search for treasures, and for the sake of his wife and daughter.


    It was almost seventeen years¡­ and he really found He Qian!


    ¡­


    High in the clouds, Qin Yun sneered silently while observing with the Eye of Lightning.


    "Reincarnation of an Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun was perplexed. "The hardest thing about reincarnating into another world is to find a body that is completely compatible with one''s soul. He Qian successfully reincarnated, and now there''s another fiendcelestial reincarnating? How can it be a coincidence?"


    Reincarnation was not possession.


    Possession¡­ left a person''s realm intact. For example, a peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm fiendcelestial could possess a body, allowing him to remain a peak third Firmament Essence Soul entity.


    Furthermore, possession of bodies did not have any stringent requirements! In tense situations, any body could be possessed and used.


    But reincarnation, that was equivalent to a rebirth into another life! One had to sacrifice all the strength of their previous body. Even one''s soul would only be left with an essential soul beam that retained one''s memories! The soul beam would have to enter a completely compatible body. Apart from memories, everything else had to start from scratch! By cultivating from scratch, one could cultivate to the Essence Soul realm once again in the future.


    Just like He Qian, he stopped cultivating after reaching the peak Connate Golden Core realm. To the Heavenly Dao, he was only mortal because he lacked an Essence Soul!


    "I heard that it is only possible to find a perfectly compatible body in other worlds," thought Qin Yun. "In one''s own world, it''s impossible to find a body that is completely compatible with one''s spirit."


    A world did not have two identical leaves.


    Similarly, there were no two bodies that were perfectly compatible with the same soul in the same world.


    However, in other worlds¡­ there was a chance of finding a body that was compatible with one''s soul. However, the actual search was like looking for a needle in a haystack.


    "Two fiendcelestials have consecutively reincarnated into my Great Chang world. Is it a coincidence? Or is there some other reason?" thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    In the quiet residence.


    "This body of mine is too weak. It''s only mortal and lacks Dharmic powers." ''Jing Fei'' shook his head as he said, "My soul is currently weak too. I can barely cast a Dao domain. Even the Dao domain is affected by my soul and its strength is greatly weakened¡­ I am at my weakest now. Wuha, I''ll be counting on you during this period of time. I need to focus on cultivation to raise my strength."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll escort you off soon. Cultivate in peace for now," said He Qian with a smile. "Now that you are here, I have a companion. The task that Empyrean Lord gave me will be a lot easier with you helping me."


    "After I cultivate for about half a month, I still have to wipe out the Gan family and flatten the Sovereign Mountain Sect," said ''Jing Fei.'' "I promised the owner of this body. The karma of the body has to be returned or I might not be able to cultivate to the Connate realm."


    He Qian nodded slightly.


    Even if he had not reached the Connate realm, a Dao domain could easily wipe out the Gan family and flatten the Sovereign Mountain Sect.


    "Time to leave," said He Qian as he took a look at his surroundings.


    "Leave?"


    A cold voice reverberated through the silent night sky. "He Qian, you can forget about leaving!"


    A cotton-clothed youth flew down from the night sky as he looked over the surroundings with a cold gaze.


    He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' looked up.


    "Qin Yun?" He Qian''s expression changed drastically into one of extreme horror. He immediately took out a black token.


    "Sou." A misty rain-like sword flash flew out from Qin Yun''s fingertip.


    The moment the sword flash appeared, the surrounding void froze. Frost even formed in midair as the surrounding temperatures dropped rapidly. At the moment the Intrinsic Flying Sword was released, Qin Yun waved his hand, sending a scroll flying out to fuse into the world.


    "I can''t use Void Transference?" He Qian held the now-useless black token as his expression could not help but change. He was reeling in complete horror.


    "Wuha, do you have any ideas?" ''Jing Fei'' asked through a Dao domain voice transmission anxiously.


    "Why did I bump into him now of all times? How did he recognize me?" He Qian found it unbelievable. He still did not know that Qin Yun could cast Eye of Lightning.


    "Follow me." He Qian grabbed ''Jing Fei'' and immediately transformed into a purple beam of light.


    "Bam!"


    A mountain appeared right in front of them. He Qian, with ''Jing Fei'' in tow, slammed into the mountain that had suddenly appeared. They were forced to stop and they looked around in alarm. The surroundings had long changed. They were now amid undulating mountains and clouds. They found it difficult to get their bearings.


    It was the Dharma treasure, Two World Picture.


    "It''s an array formation. We have been trapped." He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' turned even more anxious. The array formation was clearly powerful. After all, it was a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure array chart. As fiendcelestials, they were not adept at array formations.


    "He Qian, there will be no escape for you today." Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with coldness. He had waited too long for this day. With a wave of his hand, the six Cosmic Bangles instantly flew out from his wrist and directly surrounded the distant He Qian.

 377 Daughter

    Chapter 377: Daughter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When He Qian saw this, he immediately said with an urgent voice transmission, "Split up!"


    "Alright!" answered ''Jing Fei.''


    Both of them knew that they would be wiped out all at once if they escaped together. Splitting up gave them at least a shred of hope.


    Sou! Sou!


    He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' instantly shot into the sky, one heading south while the other headed north.


    At the same time, He Qian waved his hand.


    Boom!


    A black fiend dragon about two kilometers long condensed in midair. It roared as it forcibly tore through the surrounding area. The mountains and clouds in midair move to block it again and again. Although Qin Yun controlled them, and the Two World Array was sufficiently strong, the obstacles were eventually ripped apart by the black fiend dragon. However, its body turned translucent and very weak.


    Cracking an array required either great skill in array formations or brute force! He Qian no longer had the time to consider the item that had saved his life. He ignored everything in his bid to charge outside.


    "Rumble!" The array was torn apart as the clouds in midair dissipated, revealing a night sky.


    He Qian transformed into a purple beam of light as he flew rapidly away.


    ''Jing Fei'' had yet to cultivate any Dharmic powers but he still remained fast thanks to his Dao domain''s speed.


    "Suppress!" As Qin Yun controlled his six Cosmic Bangles to continue pursuing He Qian, he also directed his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The flying sword streaked across the sky as its might increased tremendously.


    Boom!


    The flying sword repressed the world itself, causing the surrounding fifty kilometers to freeze completely. The faint black fiend dragon whimpered from the suppression before dissipating completely.


    It was the Dreamlike Sword''s fifth move, Traveling in Solitude.


    It was also Qin Yun''s strongest attack. Just its repression of the void was already extremely powerful despite a lack of a direct strike.


    "Oh?" He Qian felt his body sink. He glanced at the suppression the world was undergoing and could not help but have a change in expression. "Why are this Qin Yun''s flying sword arts so terrifying? It can even repress the void of an area. It feels like he isn''t far from forming a Grotto-heaven."


    Whoosh! The six Cosmic Bangles came upon him. They floated in midair as a terrifying binding force began to suppress He Qian.


    "Oh?" He Qian''s speed decreased drastically as he panicked in horror. "This bangle''s might has increased that much?"


    As Qin Yun''s grasp over the void deepened, he could naturally draw out more of the Cosmic Bangles'' might.


    "Seal!" Qin Yun looked coldly at He Qian.


    Immediately, the hundred plus feet wide Cosmic Bangles shrank around He Qian.


    He Qian''s body transformed into a stoneman as he struggled to become bigger. But with the Cosmic Bangles'' encirclement, he was being repressed and found himself unable to grow! Nor could he escape the force.


    "Go!" He Qian took out a bamboo talisman and shattered it immediately.


    Boom!


    His body turned into bamboo leaves but under the six Cosmic Bangles'' repression, the might of the bamboo leaves quickly drained. He Qian did not even manage to get very far. Although his arms had furiously struck out, the first Cosmic Bangle was imprisoning his body, with the second and third one following in succession. He immediately failed to struggle any further.


    "He wishes to capture me alive? It hasn''t even been twenty years and his strength has increased so much?" He Qian reeled in despair and disbelief.


    He only had a mortal body. Once his body''s strength was sealed, he no longer had any means of resistance.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun split off three Cosmic Bangles to pursue the distant ''Jing Fei.''


    He was still escaping with his Dao domain but he kept an eye on He Qian''s situation as he escaped.


    "This Wuha wanted me to escape without even giving me any treasures." Jing Fei felt hate deep down. "Hmph, but he has tons of treasures given to him by Empyrean Lord! Whatever, that Qin Yun hates him to the bone. He will definitely capture him first. The longer he can stall for time¡­ the higher my chances of escaping. What? He can''t even fend off those black bangles?"


    Jing Fei watched the scene play out in despair. He had just flown out of the original city and only managed to cover slightly more than fifty kilometers.


    To an existence at their level, fifty plus kilometers was just too close for comfort.


    "Wuha, you sure are useless." Jing Fei felt indignant.


    "I just arrived in the Great Chang world and I''m already being captured? If I knew it would end like this, I would have just enticed that human slowly rather than let Wuha take action. He lured Sword Immortal Qin Yun here." Jing Fei was anxious and angry but there was nothing he could do.


    He did not even have a single Dharma treasure on him, nor did he have any Dharmic powers.


    Although he flew beyond fifty kilometers, escaping the void suppression range of Qin Yun''s flying sword, he did not have any Void Transference treasures, Dharmic powers, or Dharma treasures. His soul was still weak as well. He could not tear open the void to leave the Great Chang world.


    It went like this because Qin Yun had watched everything play out from the beginning. He knew that this fiendcelestial had only just descended and was at his weakest! He Qian did not give him any treasure so Qin Yun paid little attention to him. His Intrinsic Flying Sword and Cosmic Bangles were better used to deal with He Qian.


    Whoosh.


    The three Cosmic Bangles rapidly flew over.


    "I''m doomed." Jing Fei looked at the three Cosmic Bangles with despair filling his eyes.


    The Cosmic Bangles encircled him! Jing Fei was unable to put up a single ounce of resistance and could only close his eyes.


    What grievance¡­


    He was captured moments after descending upon this world!


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun appeared to deal with He Qian and Jing Fei, he had released his Two World Picture. He also thought that He Qian and Jing Fei might engage in an intense battle inside the array chart; therefore, he used his Dao domain to send the ordinary citizens in the vicinity to a distant street. Those that were sleeping or showering were lifted up and sent out of their houses.


    Some were wrapped in blankets or clothes. There were even some people drinking alcohol barefooted.


    "Hey! Hey! Hey!"


    "Why am I flying?"


    "I''m flying!"


    The large group of people in the vicinity flew up from everywhere. Even the searching pursuers from the Gan family and Sovereign Mountain Sect flew up.


    Flying? It was not easy even for Connate False Cores, much less the flight of thousands of people simultaneously. Each one of them knew that something major was happening. There were clouds in the distance that hid the battle from the residents.


    "Are immortals battling fiendcelestials?" Each one of them looked curiously.


    However¡ª


    The clouds soon dissipated and peace was restored. Where were the immortals and fiendcelestials? There was nothing at all.


    "Those houses collapsed."


    "Many houses have been destroyed."


    The residential region was in ruins. Some areas were reduced to dust while others only suffered structural collapses. The Two World array had been forcibly cracked, causing collateral damage to the residential areas within the array formation.


    "My home is gone."


    "My house!"


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    Many people wrapped in blankets or walking on bare feet turned anxious.


    ¡­


    Swoosh.


    On a cloud, Qin Yun held a rope that bound He Qian and Jing Fei behind him. Their strength and souls had been completely sealed. It was impossible for them to even commit suicide. And even if it wasn''t, the two fiendcelestials would not choose suicide so easily. They had very strong inclinations to live.


    "Qin Yun here." Qin Yun held the Inspect Heavenly Token and contacted the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "Elder Qin." A man in a Daoist robe from the Inspector Heavenly Alliance greeted politely. Qin Yun was now one of the Elders of the Inspector Heavenly Alliance.


    "I just took action in Mt. Yu County City, implicating some residents," instructed Qin Yun. "Quickly arrange for them to be compensated and relocated."


    "You took action and implicated the residents? Might I know how many people are injured or dead?" asked the Daoist-robed man. If Sword Immortal Qin had taken action that damaged the surroundings, who knew how many casualties there would be?


    "Don''t worry. There are no casualties," said Qin Yun. "See to it overnight."


    "Yes," replied the Daoist-robed man as he heaved a sigh of relief.


    Following that, Qin Yun severed the transmission.


    Putting the transmission token away, he looked at He Qian and Jing Fei.


    "He Qian." Qin Yun turned to glare at him. "You do know that I have many ways to make you wish you were dead."


    He Qian''s eyes constricted as he sneered. "Oh? Would you still spare me after I killed your wife?"


    "Kill?"


    Qin Yun''s heart jolted but he continued sneering on the surface. "Alright, now that it''s gotten to this point, there''s no need to continue lying. I got an expert to divine that my wife is still alive a long time ago."


    He Qian was secretly alarmed.


    Had it been divined? Although their methods were very powerful, was there any lack of experts in the Three Realms? It was possible that Qin Yun had indeed found one such expert.


    "As long as you cooperate obediently," said Qin Yun. "If you do so, letting me save my wife and my daughter, I can promise you to let you go, alive! If you do not cooperate¡­ hmph. You should be able to guess the means that are at my disposal."


    "By the way, how is my daughter now?" asked Qin Yun.

 378 Interrogating He Qian

    Chapter 378: Interrogating He Qian


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    He Qian snorted twice but did not say a word.


    "You sure are tight-lipped." Qin Yun nodded slightly. Following that, he took a look at ''Jing Fei.'' "What about you, do you know about my wife and daughter?"


    "That is a critical secret," said ''Jing Fei'' immediately. "How would I, a third Firmament fiendcelestial know?"


    Qin Yun nodded. "Good, so neither of you are willing to talk. Then I''ll take it slow. I have plenty of time to fool around with you."


    Following that, he took out a jade bottle from his Cosmic Bag. He Qian and Jing Fei stared at the jade bottle, feeling apprehensive.


    Qin Yun gave them a glance before pulling out the stopper, sending two pills spilling out instantly. Inside the pills, it looked like a worm was squirming inside. He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' had contorted expressions but they were unable to muster any resistance.


    "Open your mouths," ordered Qin Yun lightly. The Dao domain forced their mouths open as the pills were thrown in.


    "Gulp!" He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' looked at Qin Yun in outage and alarm after swallowing the pills.


    "It''s a magus Gu?" asked He Qian immediately.


    "I have killed so many fiendish demons over the years, quite a number of fiendcelestials too. I have many of these diabolical tricks and methods." Qin Yun looked at them calmly. "I usually have no use for them but now, having received a chance, I can use them on you. Don''t worry. This is only the beginning!"


    Following that, He Qian and ''Jing Fei'' suffered the effects of the Gu worm as they let out painful grunts. Despite having extremely strong endurance, their flesh and skin began to distort.


    Qin Yun watched it all happen quietly.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I really do not know. I do not know a thing," yelled ''Jing Fei'' anxiously.


    "Qin Yun, I urge you to stop." He Qian barely forced the sentence out. He endured the pain for another moment before adding, "You will regret this if you keep going. Your wife and daughter will both die! Die, I tell you!"


    "Oh? Regret?" Qin Yun sneered. "If you are willing to cooperate with me, you would still be of some value; if not, there is only death for you."


    He Qian gritted his teeth and did not say another word.


    Qin Yun frowned secretly when he saw the situation play out. "He sure can endure. However, there are many ways to interrogate someone."


    ¡­


    Three days passed in a blink of an eye.


    Qin Yun was stunned to realized that, despite him tormenting He Qian with dozens of cruel techniques, pushing him to the brink of insanity, he refused to reveal any information! As for ''Jing Fei,'' he kept insisting that he was completely unaware.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun rode a cloud and, with a rope, flew with them in tow. He headed for the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa were in one of Divine Firmament Chapter''s courtyards.


    Qin Yun landed with his two prisoners.


    "Senior Zhang, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa," greeted Qin Yun. "This is He Qian and Jing Fei, two fiendcelestials that reincarnated into our Great Chang world."


    "In just a few decades, two fiendcelestials have reincarnated into our Great Chang world one after another. This is indeed odd," said Daoist Divine Firmament. "After receiving your report, Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and I went to Mt. Yu County City to investigate but found nothing special. From the looks of it, it appears like a coincidence."


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa nodded slightly.


    Two figures walked into the courtyard. They were none other than Human Emperor and the plump Patriarch Bai.


    "Ah, Qin Yun, you are here," said Patriarch Bai with a chuckle. "I was playing chess with Human Emperor just a moment ago. We immediately rushed here when we knew you arrived. We didn''t even finish our game."


    "That''s because you were losing," quipped Human Emperor.


    "We didn''t finish it yet. Who knows who the ultimate victor would be?" Patriarch Bai curled his lips. Following that, he changed topics. "Qin Yun, we have discussed the matter regarding the reincarnations of the two fiendcelestials. It looks like a coincidence¡­ but for it to happen in such a short span of time, it''s likely because the fiendcelestials are using some special technique, allowing them to find bodies in the Great Chang world that match the fiendcelestials'' souls."


    "Special technique?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "In that case, doesn''t that mean there will be a third and a fourth, and even more fiendcelestials reincarnating?"


    "Yes." Patriarch Bai noded. Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, Human Emperor, and Ancestral Master Zhang also nodded slightly.


    "Don''t worry. It''s not an easy task to find a body that suits one''s soul across such great space. The price is quite costly as well," said Patriarch Bai. "Furthermore, we are only speculating. It might very well be a coincidence."


    "Regardless, these two have been captured alive by Qin Yun," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    "The Empyrean Lord of that fiendcelestials'' world must be hopping mad." Human Emperor laughed out as well.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, don''t worry. Our Great Chang world has experienced numerous calamities since ancient times. We have already made it through ones that are tens or a hundred times worse. The current situation is much better than what it was in the past."


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded. He pointed to the wretched-looking He Qian and ''Jing Fei.'' "Seniors, I believe all of you know the fiendish demon, He Qian. I wish to obtain information about my wife and daughter from him. I have subjected him to all sorts of ruthless interrogation method over the past three days to no avail."


    "None of them worked?" The four were somewhat alarmed.


    At Qin Yun''s level, the means he had at his disposal if he really wanted to torture someone were quite terrifying.


    "This Jing Fei insists that he doesn''t know a thing," said Qin Yun. "He has been saying that for the past three days."


    Human Emperor nodded and said, "It''s unlikely he is lying. The fiendcelestial''s world follows a tight hierarchy. The Empyrean Lord might not even inform the Monarchs under him of a confidential mission like this one, much less a third Firmament fiendcelestial."


    "What about this He Qian?" Daoist Divine Firmament asked. "He was the one who abducted your wife. He definitely knows."


    "But he refuses to say a word. He''s tight-lipped," said Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Daoist Divine Firmament smiled. "A tight-lip? Then, let me give it a try."


    Qin Yun said immediately, "I came here to seek your help in obtaining information about my wife and daughter from this He Qian''s mouth. I believe that the fiendcelestials would not kill my daughter so casually. She should be a very good pawn for them."


    "Yes." Daoist Divine Firmament nodded. "Let me give it a try first."


    Following that, Daoist Divine Firmament stepped forward and with a wave of his hand, swept He Qian up with Dharmic powers, sending him into a room to the side.


    ¡­


    Daoist Divine Firmament''s interrogation continued late into the night.


    Qin Yun, Patriarch Bai, Human Emperor, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa sat down to chat as they waited patiently.


    "Creak." The door opened.


    Daoist Divine Firmament walked out and shook his head. "He sure is tight-lipped. Perhaps he is afraid of his world''s Empyrean Lord. He refuses to say a word."


    "Haha, you''ve lost your touch." Patriarch Bai stood up immediately. "When it comes to interrogation, I''ve definitely been ranked in the top three since ancient times." With that said, he entered the room.


    The unfortunate He Qian¡­ suffered all sorts of unmentionable torturing techniques.


    As for Qin Yun and company, none of them felt any pity for him.


    "How pitiful." Jing Fei, who had his powers sealed, secretly sighed from the side. "I wonder what sort of end will I have."


    At daybreak on the second day, Patriarch Bai walked out of the room. He stroked his beard and said helplessly, "He sure is tight-lipped. I actually failed to obtain anything. Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa¡­ from the looks of it, you are the only one that might have any chance in this world."


    "Me?" Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was slightly taken aback before he immediately smiled. "I only have one trick. I''ll give it a try. All of you can come in too."


    "One trick?" Qin Yun was baffled.


    "The Buddhist methods are not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill techniques," said Human Emperor with a smile. "You will know once you enter."


    Everyone entered the room together.


    Qin Yun, Human Emperor, Daoist Divine Firmament, and Patriarch Bai stood to the side watching. As for Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, he stood there and looked at the chained He Qian who sat cross-legged.


    "He Qian." Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa smiled at him.


    "I told all of you I won''t say a word." He Qian was exhausted but he remained silent.


    Instead, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa sat cross-legged and began lightly chanting the sutras.


    His voice was very soft but it drilled right into He Qian''s mind. He immediately found it unbearable.


    "Shut up! Shut up!" He Qian suffered an excruciating pain.


    However, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa continued reciting.


    He Qian writhed in pain and even began to turn insane and belligerent. However, the chains sealed his strength so him acting up meant nothing. Slowly, he sat down wearily. Occasionally, his eyes would be filled with a ferocious look but gradually¡­ it vanished. His eyes turned calm and he gradually smiled.


    "I can only control him for an hour." Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa stopped reciting. His face appeared a little pale. He said to Qin Yun, "Ask anything you would like to ask in the next hour. He will answer with everything he knows."


    "Impressive." Patriarch Bai''s eyes lit up.


    "It''s just a little demon vanquishing trick," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa with a smile.


    Qin Yun''s heart raced as he felt excited.


    Answer with everything he knew?


    "He Qian." Qin Yun found it almost impossible to control his emotions. He asked, with voice trembling, "Is my daughter still alive?"


    He Qian smiled and said calmly, "Your daughter is still alive¡ª"


    Before he even finished the statement, his eyes suddenly widened. There was intense fear in them!


    "No¡ª" He Qian let out a scream as his eyes turned blood-red. Qin Yun and company saw He Qian''s soul struggle as it separated from his body. Finally, it dissipated with a bang.


    "His soul was pulverized?" Everyone present had a drastic change in expression.

 379 Yet Another Year

    Chapter 379: Yet Another Year


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun watched it happen before his very eyes in shock and anxiety. He immediately asked, "Why did his soul dissipate? He Qian was imprisoned here by us, completely isolated from the external world. How did the Empyrean Lord instantly kill him across distant space?"


    Qin Yun was considered quite knowledgeable.


    For example, he knew that even the most esoteric hex spells of the magus lineage were impossible to slip under the noses of a Skygod, Skyimmortal, or Bodhisattva. They would have been insulated.


    "Qin Yun," said Human Emperor solemnly. "This can mean only one thing."


    Ancestral Master Zhang, Patriarch Bai, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa had solemn expressions as well.


    "What thing?" Qin Yun followed up with the question.


    "The fiendcelestial world that He Qian belongs to has a Skyfiend of the Mental Demon lineage," said Human Emperor with all seriousness. "For instance, the Daoist school of thought has the talisman amulet Dharma spells, the Physical Establishing Sage, as well as the sword immortal lineage. As for the fiendcelestial system, it has many variations. Some cultivate their bodies, blood, or sins. And the most mysterious and strangest of them all, according to legend¡­ is the Mental Demon lineage."


    "The Mental Demon lineage?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "I''ve always heard how important it is to cultivate one''s mind or one might develop a mental demon. But the fiendcelestial system has a Mental Demon lineage that focuses on doing just that?"


    "Yes," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa with a nod. "The Mental Demon lineage has an arduous cultivation path so it is rarely encountered! None of us have met one before. We have only heard of it."


    "The moment He Qian mentioned your daughter¡­ his soul was instantly pulverized," said Patriarch Bai. "That leaves only one possibility. His soul had been planted with a Mental Demon Seed. To easily do so to a peak third Firmament fiendcelestial, the one who did it must be at the Skyfiend realm. A Mental Demon lineage Skyfiend enjoys a very high status, one far above ordinary Skyfiends."


    Ancestral Master Zhang said softly, "Most importantly, as Mental Demon Skyfiends are very rare, the methods they have at their disposal are very strong in influence. In a head-on clash, they could be directly killed by even slightly weaker opponents. Therefore, most Mental Demon Skyfiends follow fiendish experts for protection."


    "The fiendcelestial world He Qian came from has not only a Mental Demon Skyfiend, but also a powerful existence that the Mental Demon Skyfiend serves?" said a flabbergasted Qin Yun.


    "It''s very possible that that is the case," said Human Emperor with a nod. "Eighth Zhu and Ninth Hong are both reincarnated immortals. According to them, just their group alone had nine immortals that reincarnated to our world. It was because a mighty figure had predicted that our world will face a great catastrophe. That also means the potential for great merit, which was why they chose to reincarnate into our Great Chang world."


    Ancestral Master Zhang added, "We have been constantly guessing what great catastrophe would befall our world. Now, from the looks of it, it''s very likely that it''s the fiendcelestial world of He Qian! Just discovering that they have a Mental Demon Skyfiend and a terrifying existence he is subordinate to means their strength is very real. Perhaps, they have even more dangerous existences we have yet to discover. Our only advantage is our geographical location!"


    "Then, how do we deal with them?" asked Qin Yun.


    Patriarch Bai shook his head and said, "We don''t even know the particulars of our enemies. We can only try our best to prepare. As for the great catastrophe, it might not even be the fiendcelestial world in question."


    "Perhaps we might be working ourselves up over nothing," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa with a smile. "The Empyrean Lord of this fiendcelestial world might be that Mental Demon Skyfiend. Although they have unfathomable means and are great at influencing people, their direct combat strength is nothing to be afraid of."


    "Haha, Brother Zhang''s Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma is the natural nemesis of Mental Demons," said Patriarch Bai.


    "I also wish that it''s only a Mental Demon Skyfiend." Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as well.


    But everyone knew that it was very likely the Mental Demon Skyfiend was only one of the subordinates in the fiendcelestial world.


    "There''s still Jing Fei," said Qin Yun immediately. "He too is a reincarnated fiendcelestial."


    "He has probably also been planted with a Mental Demon seed," said Human Emperor. "We won''t be able to gain anything from interrogating him, so he is of little value."


    "Since he is of no value, let''s give it a try. Perhaps something might be obtained before his soul gets pulverized." Qin Yun looked at Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa. "Senior Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, sorry for troubling you."


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa nodded in response. "Alright, we''ll give it another try."


    ¡­


    Jing Fei was pulled into a room.


    "I really do not know a thing." Jing Fei looked pleadingly at Qin Yun and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa.


    He knew very well that there were many things he could not say with the Mental Demon seed inside of him. The moment he said something confidential, the Mental Demon would trigger and pulverize his soul!


    Therefore, they had to endure no matter how much torture was inflicted on them.


    "¡­" Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa sat cross-legged and constantly chanted the sutras as they filled Jing Fei''s mind.


    Jing Fei gradually turned calm and even smiled.


    "Go ahead and ask," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa.


    Qin Yun looked at Jing Fei. "Tell me where my wife, Yi Xiao, is imprisoned. Just tell me the address."


    "She might be at¡ª" The moment Jing Fei said that, his eyes widened as he recovered his clarity of mind.


    "No¡ª" He let out a painful scream as his soul struggled against the separation from his body. With a boom, it completely shattered and, like He Qian before him, his soul was pulverized.


    The fiendcelestial Moquan who had descended into Jing Fei''s body truly met an aggrieved end. He was given the chance to descend early because he had many missions to do! He planned on completing them to gain great merit¡­


    But he was captured the moment he descended.


    Now, his soul had been pulverized.


    Qin Yun watched this play out in complete silence.


    "The Mental Demon seed is planted right in their soul. Just the thought of saying something will allow the Mental Demon seed to detect it and obliterate their soul," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa with a sigh.


    "He said ''she might be at.'' Clearly, Jing Fei was only guessing," said Qin Yun. "But back when I asked He Qian, his reply did determine one thing¡ªMy daughter is still alive. Back when my wife was captured, she was still pregnant. According to my wife''s guess, her pregnancy would last three years. Since my daughter is alive¡­ it means He Qian''s announcement to the world that he had killed my wife is fake. My wife is still alive and she managed to give birth to my daughter."


    "Yes." Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa nodded.


    "Xiaoxiao and my daughter are still alive," thought Qin Yun. "But where are they?"


    Following that, Qin Yun and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa walked out of the room. Ancestral Master Zhang, Patriarch Bai, and Human Emperor looked over but Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa shook his head gently.


    "Qin Yun," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The fiendcelestial world orchestrating this are the true enemies. They ordered your wife''s abduction years ago. However, they should lack the strength to descend into this world. They can''t even kill you despite wanting it! Only when they have the strength to come to our Great Chang world will they really use your wife and daughter against you. Until that day, they should be safe."


    "Who knows when they will take action? A hundred years from now? Ten years from now? Or even three from now?" Qin Yun shook his head. "That is all an unknown. I have to quickly amass a superior-grade Numinous treasure. I need to rescue my wife and daughter before they mobilize."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun left the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Although he now knew that both his wife and daughter were still alive, it only made him more anxious! He did not know what their lives were like at the moment.


    "Xiaoxiao, and also, Daughter¡­ I will definitely do my best to rescue you. Our family will definitely be reunited." Qin Yun looked at the distant green mountain ranges before riding a cloud into the distance. He continued his search for hidden opportunities in the world.


    Time flew by.


    In a blink of an eye, it was early summer of the next year.


    Qin Yun had been back from the Great Chu world for a year. His Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s Sword Qi had been been filled once again.


    A beam of light flew towards the West Sea.


    "I wonder if I''m able to crack the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s final array formation with the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash''s Sword Qi." Qin Yun flew the entire way.

 380 Great World

    Chapter 380: Great World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Once again, Qin Yun plummeted deep into the West Sea and entered the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Familiar as he was with the place, he soon came to a corridor that led to the central palace. Suddenly, he sensed something and turned his head. Not far from him, the Guardian General had appeared out of thin air.


    "Human, you have come again," greeted the golden-armored Guardian General with a smile. "Have you had another breakthrough in strength?"


    "A little, so I''m going to make another attempt. I want to see if I can crack the array formation," said Qin Yun with a smile. Following that, he carefully observed the corridor entrance in front of him. There was an array formation at the entrance that barred him from entering.


    "Crack!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain shot out from his fingertip. A terrifying might burst outwards and surged towards the array formation seal that blocked the corridor entrance.


    "Boom!!!"


    The flying sword struck the array formation seal causing it to produce ripples.


    It followed up, leaving numerous afterimages as it struck at the seal again and again!


    The Dreamlike Sword''s fifth move, Traveling in Solitude, did have the might to open a Grotto-heaven but the array formation that the ancient Skydragon had set up was indeed powerful. Despite repeated assaults by the Intrinsic Flying Sword, the array formation was only shaken.


    "Just my Intrinsic Flying Sword alone makes me extremely powerful among peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm existences. I''m still a distance away from a Skyimmortal. The ancient Skydragon has been dead for years and the array formation he set up¡­ cannot be cracked by my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun shook his head. Although his Dao realm was constantly improving, narrowing the gap between him and a Skyimmortal, the lack of a true breakthrough still indicated a difference no matter how narrow the gap was.


    Once he made that breakthrough¡­ all his Sword Dao insights would form a perfect whole, making it truly flawless. One strike from his sword would form a Grotto-heaven.


    When that happened, his strength would also undergo a qualitative change.


    For example, Patriarch Yi, Patriarch Zhongli, and many peak third Firmament realm existences were stuck in the same place. They even feared to attempt the Heavenly Tribulations! Only when their insights into the Dao could reach perfection equal to that of the Skyimmortal realm would they have the confidence to attempt the Heavenly Tribulations to become a Skyimmortal!


    ¡­


    Although Qin Yun was powerful, he still failed to make that concrete step.


    "I still need to rely on the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash." Qin Yun took out the bronze calabash that was already filled with Sword Qi after a year.


    "Go."


    He pulled out the calabash''s stopper, aiming its mouth right at the corridor entrance in front of him.


    Whoosh! Countless Sword Qi formed a destructive cyclone that devastatingly struck the array formation seal at the corridor entrance. The seal instantly warped and began to shatter, producing cracking sounds! However, the seal was clearly multi-layered and needed to shatter on several levels.


    "Good, it is indeed stronger than before." Qin Yun watched with anticipation.


    Crack!


    Finally, the complicated array formation seal, with its twenty-six layers, was completely shattered. The entrance was unveiled.


    But the destructive cyclone continued in its destructive path. Under Qin Yun''s control, it went straight to the central hall in the distance.


    In the middle of the central hall was the ancient Skydragon''s corpse! Perhaps the Dharma treasures that the ancient Skydragon personally used were in there. There was even a chance of using it to gain all the treasures in the Ancient Skydragon Palace.


    "Hum!" As the relentless Sword Qi cyclone raged over, the central hall''s surface projected layers of golden barriers, enveloping the entire hall, leaving no weak spot.


    Even though Qin Yun was watching from a distance, he could sense that the golden barrier was much stronger than the array formation seal at the corridor entrance.


    "Boom!!!"


    The destructive cyclone formed from the million Sword Qi surged towards the central hall.


    The layers of golden barriers that lined the central hall''s surface shook.


    Bam! A golden barrier shattered.


    However, the million Sword Qi was getting weaker by the minute. After it cracked open a layer of the golden barrier, the remaining might was no longer sufficient to go any further. Although it continued its barrage for a moment longer, the million Sword Qi finally dissipated completely. During this process, the first golden layer that had been cracked open also gradually repaired itself.


    Even the array formation seal at the corridor entrance was gradually returning to normal.


    After all¡­


    Qin Yun had only forcibly cracked it open, but failed to destroy the array formation''s core! As long as it gathered enough Heaven and Earth powers, it could naturally restore itself to normal.


    "Although the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash is extremely powerful, it is only a one-time use item." Qin Yun shook his head gently before he turned to leave.


    "Haha, Human. You have already cracked open one layer of the array formation in the central hall," said the spectating Guardian General with a smile. "With the speed at which your strength is increasing, I believe the Ancient Skydragon Palace will eventually fall into your hands."


    "Thank you, I''ll count on your blessings," replied Qin Yun before he left.


    The Guardian General watched Qin Yun leave as he mumbled, "If he were to eventually obtain the entire Ancient Skydragon Palace, wouldn''t that mean he would become my master?"


    The Guardian General stood there in a daze for a moment before he finally shook his head and dematerialized.


    ******


    Qin Yun encountered another obstacle at the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Although he came mentally prepared for the possibility of failure, he still felt a sense of anticipation when he successfully cracked open the array formation seal at the corridor entrance and when he struck the central hall for the first time.


    However, the protection around the central hall was clearly much stronger than that of the corridor entrance.


    "Perhaps I really must attain insights into the Skyimmortal realm before I can crack that open." Qin Yun flew all the way to the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    "If I can''t obtain the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s treasures, how am I to amass ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures? I can only head to other worlds." Qin Yun had already made that decision a year ago.


    If he could not amass the required Numinous treasures in his world, he would head to other worlds!


    He would risk his life visiting one world after another.


    As a mortal¡­ he could rely on deception! The experts of the other worlds did not know him and would only think of him as an ordinary mortal Connate Golden Core.


    "Whoosh."


    After arriving in the Divine Firmament Chapter, he went straight to the hall that held the Void Altar.


    "Qin Yun, are you planning on heading to another world?" Ancestral Master Zhang appeared and frowned slightly.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded. With that said, he took out a Cosmic Bag. "I still need you to help me by tending to my Numinous treasures. After all, my treasure halo is too blinding. It would expose me."


    With Qin Yun''s strength, he could tear open a void rift passageway alone and head to other worlds.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and said, "Fine. Since you have made your decision, wait a moment. I''ll get the East Sea Skydragon to come."


    "East Sea Skydragon?" Qin Yun was perplexed.


    "You will know what I mean shortly," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Moments later, a black-haired male dragon descended into the Divine Firmament Chapter. Soon, he entered the hall.


    "Senior Skydragon." Qin Yun bowed.


    "Are you really planning on heading to other worlds? Are you going to seek out treasures by blindly visiting worlds?" said East Sea Skydragon with a frown.


    "If I head to enough worlds, I will ultimately find something," said Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang added, "Brother Ao, Qin Yun''s mind is set."


    East Sea Skydragon looked at Qin Yun and said with a light sigh, "Speaking of which, that lass Yi Xiao was abducted while she was in my Dragon race''s territory. We, the dragons, give you our deepest apologizes."


    "No one could have expected it," said Qin Yun.


    "Since you really plan on heading to other worlds," said East Sea Skydragon. "I have heard some news in casual conversations with other dragons of the Three Realms. I learned of a place that I believe is suitable for you to seek treasure."


    "What place is it?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "That world''s name is the Ancient Augury World," said East Sea Skydragon. "You should be aware that the Three Realms are boundless, and in that endless space there are Great Worlds and Small Worlds."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He knew that back when he dreamed for a hundred years, he had once shattered the void and ascended, heading towards a massive planet. Later on, Qin Yun gathered information and learned that cultivators of Small Worlds would eventually ascend into Great Worlds.


    That massive planet¡­ was likely a Great World! However, Qin Yun did not know that the massive planet''s name was Effulgent World, the world that his son from the dream, Meng Huan, had headed to.

 381 Set Off, Effulgent Great World Final Chapter of Volume

    "There are many Small Worlds, so many that it''s nearly uncountable," said East Sea Skydragon. "Over time, Small Worlds see their Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thin. In the earliest days of these Small Worlds forming, there can be Connate Godfiends. Some Small Worlds develop like our Great Chang world, with existences like Skygods, Skyimmortals, and Skygods! And in other Small Worlds, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are so thin that cultivating to the Connate Golden Core is the limit. There''s no way for them to condense an Essence Soul."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    He knew it well, for Connate Golden Core was the limit in the second world of his hundred years dream.


    "There are also Small Worlds that can at best cultivate to the Postnatal realm. They aren''t even able to reach the Connate realm," said East Sea Skydragon. "Some unfortunate Small Worlds are even completely devoid of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. The path of cultivation is completely severed."


    "Completely devoid of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies? Unable to cultivate?" Qin Yun was shocked. "There are such Small Worlds?"


    "Yes." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "I have seen such a world before. There is no way to absorb Heaven and Earth spiritual energies and one can only tap into the Dharmic powers in their bodies. Once they exhaust the Dharmic powers in their bodies, that would be the end. Even a Skyimmortal like me would not dare remain in such a world for long."


    East Sea Skydragon smiled and continued, "The Three Realms are boundless and contain numerous cosmic spaces. There might be innumerable Small Worlds but the number of Great Worlds is extremely few.


    "Every Great World rules over a massive number of Small Worlds," explained East Sea Skydragon. "For instance, if the Skygods and Skyimmortals of our Great Chang world choose to ascend, they would head to the Effulgent Great World."


    "Effulgent Great World?" Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Ancestral Master Zhang added, "If one survives the tribulations, one can ascend. However, our Great Chang world is rich in Heaven and Earth spiritual energies so there is no need to head to the Effulgent Great World."


    "Existences like Skyimmortals and Skydragons can head to any Small World they choose," said East Sea Skydragon. "But if it''s an ascension, one will ultimately reach the Effulgent Great World. You can imagine how few in number Great Worlds are."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    Existences at the Skyimmortal realm could go to many places.


    But no matter how they attempted to travel, they would still be within the Effulgent Great World''s area of influence.


    "To go from one Great World to another Great World through one''s own powers, that is only something mighty figures like Golden Immortals or Buddhas are capable of." Ancestral Master Zhang sighed wistfully.


    Qin Yun could not help but feel stirred. "When I had my hundred years dream, I was sent by Amita to two Small Worlds. He transferred my soul across endless space. Back then, I was just too weak so it seemed to me that the transference was very far. But now, from the looks of it, I could not have covered a very great distance¡­ It''s very likely I was still within the Effulgent Great World''s area of influence."


    If he was Amita, he would also have chosen somewhere closer.


    That would make the transference easier, after all.


    "Therefore, the people from the two worlds in my dream of a hundred years would ascend to the Effulgent Great World as well?" thought Qin Yun. "The space-time passage in those two worlds goes by very quickly. A day in the Great Chang world is a year over there. If my theory is right, Huan''er will also ascend to the Effulgent Great World if he manages to shatter the void."


    Qin Yun also deeply missed his son, Meng Huan.


    After all, he had brought him up since he was a garbling baby.


    ¡­


    East Sea Skydragon said, "The Ancient Augury World I recommended is inside the Effulgent Great World."


    "Inside the Effulgent Great World?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "The Ancient Augury World sounds like another world but it''s inside the Effulgent Great World?"


    "Yes." East Sea Skydragon nodded. "The Effulgent Great World is just too huge. It gravitational pull causes more than a hundred Small Worlds to revolve around it. One of those Small Worlds is named the Ancient Augury World. It had once prospered but, due to the numerous massive battles that raged across it, it has been reduced to ruins. From then on¡­ the Ancient Augury World has been used to train the disciples of top sects in the Effulgent Great World."


    "A whole world is used as a training ground?" Qin Yun was shocked.


    "Naturally, it has many treasures left in it, making it the perfect place for a perennial training ground," explained East Sea Skydragon. "Of course, the treasures aren''t easily obtained."


    Ancestral Master Zhang added, "We have also been searching for information and we believe the Ancient Augury World is most suitable for you. Qin Yun, it is up to you if you wish to go or not."


    "I''m going." Qin Yun did not hesitate at all.


    This was much better than his original plan.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and East Sea Skydragon exchanged looks. It had gone as they had expected.


    If they had not provided him with a location, Qin Yun would visit one Small World after another on whim.


    "The Ancient Augury World is where disciples of top sects in the Effulgent Great World train. Therefore, not just anyone can enter," explained East Sea Skydragon. "Typical itinerant cultivators or disciples of ordinary sects are barred from entry. If you wish to enter¡­ I will need to seek the help of a dragon."


    "Sorry for troubling you, Senior Skydragon," said Qin Yun immediately.


    The Ancient Augury World was not something disciples of ordinary sects could enter. Clearly, it had been monopolized by the top sects.


    "It''s because you are sufficiently strong that I''m able to put in the request," said East Sea Skydragon as he took out a dragon-shaped token.


    Following that, he triggered it.


    Hum¡ª


    The space ahead of him gradually distorted as a ripple tore in the air, revealing a spot across endless space. The scene was that of an underwater palace and a purple-robed expert with dragon horns looking back at them.


    "Junior Brother," said the purple-robed expert with a smile. "Is there a reason why you are suddenly contacting me?"


    "Senior Brother," said East Sea Skydragon immediately. "I need you to help me send a human friend into the Ancient Augury World."


    The purple-robed dragon expert frowned slightly. "The Ancient Augury World is an elite training ground that is controlled by many top sects. Giving a random external party entry isn''t easy."


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang were watching from the side.


    "Senior Brother, hear me out. This human friend is only a mortal sword immortal but his strength matches that of a peaked third Firmament Essence Soul," said East Sea Skydragon with a smile. "I know you have always been in search of Purple Wood Beads and they are abundant in the Ancient Augury World. Since this friend of mine is a mortal, powerful experts won''t usually attack him. Furthermore, his true strength is formidable. There is a high chance of him obtaining the Purple Wood Beads for you."


    "There is no lack of reincarnated immortals that enter the Ancient Augury World. Purple Wood Beads aren''t that easily found," said the purple-robed expert. However, his tone clearly sounded more amiable. "However, how does a mortal have strength at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul?"


    East Sea Skydragon beckoned as Qin Yun immediately walked to his side.


    Only then did the purple-robed dragon see Qin Yun.


    "Greetings, Senior." Qin Yun bowed.


    "He is a sword immortal and had condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core," explained East Sea Skydragon. "In terms of Dharmic powers, he is slightly weaker than third Firmament Essence Soul immortals but his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s strength is extremely formidable¡­ It makes up for his lack of Dharmic powers. Therefore, he is able to match a peaked third Firmament Essence Soul. Senior Brother, typically reincarnated immortals are only able to barely produce strength at the third Firmament Essence Soul while maintaining a mortal body. The chances this friend of mine has when it comes to snatching treasures will be much higher that of than reincarnated immortals."


    "Alright then. I will think of a way to send him in on your account." The purple-robed expert nodded. "The Scenic Jade Palace will be sending disciples in a month. I will seek the help of a fellow Daoist from there to reserve a spot for him."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother." East Sea Skydragon was delighted.


    "The Scenic Jade Palace disciples will be entering in a month. That sword immortal kid should come to me as soon as possible. I have to send him there ahead of time," said the purple-robed expert.


    East Sea Skydragon looked over at Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang as they had a quick discussion over voice transmissions.


    "He can head there today," said East Sea Skydragon.


    "Alright. Send him over." The purple-robed expert nodded.


    Following that, the void rift closed.


    "Thank you, Senior Skydragon." Qin Yun was very touched. If not for their help, it would not be possible for him to enter a top training ground like the Ancient Augury World even if he had gone to the Effulgent Great World.


    "You are only a mortal, and it''s not that difficult for mortal Connate Golden Cores to obtain a spot. If an Essence Soul wanted to enter¡­ I doubt my senior brother would be that obliging," said East Sea Skydragon.


    Qin Yun sighed inwardly. This was the heritage that formed the backbone of the Dragon race. After all, dragons were all over the Three Realms.


    "Are you going immediately?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun.


    "There''s nothing else for me to do now. I might as well set off as soon as possible," said Qin Yun. He had already handed over the Cosmic Bag with numerous Numinous treasures to Ancestral Master Zhang for safekeeping. He could leave at any moment.


    East Sea Skydragon nodded. He threw a scroll to Qin Yun. "This is some general information regarding the Effulgent Great World. Although I have never been there myself, I have heard some things about it. Take a look at it before you leave."


    Qin Yun read through it. At his realm, he could scan it quickly so he memorized everything in seconds. He rolled up the scroll and handed it back to East Sea Skydragon. "I''m done reading."


    East Sea Skydragon took it back and with a flip of his hand, produced a spear.


    "Chi!"


    He stabbed into the void, tearing open a void passageway.


    "Boom!" East Sea Skydragon moved the spear down, causing the void passageway to warp and deepen. He then shouted, "Brother Zhang, aid me."


    "Alright."


    Ancestral Master Zhang reached out his hand as a gigantic talisman amulet phantom appeared. Terrifying lightning bolts gathered in midair.


    "Boom!" The massive purple lightning charged straight into the void passageway.


    Their joining of forces reduced the time to open the void into several seconds.


    "Qin Yun, go in quickly," urged Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Thank you, Seniors." Qin Yun did not speak further. With Sword Qi enveloping his body, he whizzed into the spatial passageway as a stream of light.


    ¡­


    The void passageway had two forces¡ªlightning and water¡ªmaintaining it. Qin Yun rapidly tore through the passageway.


    This time, he truly realized what it meant to be distant!


    He shot through the void passageway for ten minutes until the passageway gradually narrowed. Thankfully, Qin Yun was only a mortal. He could barely continue to tunnel through it. Furthermore, by that point, he was also maintaining the passageway with his own strength.


    "Sou!"


    Finally, Qin Yun emerged out of the void passageway and arrived in the hall of an opulent underwater palace.


    "I''ve arrived in the Effulgent Great World?" The moment Qin Yun stepped into the hall, he could sense the extremely rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. Furthermore, it felt bountiful and majestic.


    The purple-robed dragon expert was sitting on his throne. He put down the book in his hand as the newcomer arrived.


    "Greetings, Dragon King Lianyang, I''m Qin Yun." Qin Yun immediately bowed.


    "Yes, that junior brother of mine praised you, saying that you would be able to obtain Purple Wood Beads for me," said the purple-robed dragon nonchalantly. "I am willing to exchange one Purple Wood Bead for one transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. If you get six, I''ll exchanged them for one inferior-grade Numinous treasure! As long as you bring them, I will buy as many Purple Wood Beads as you can find. In order to send you in, I had thickened my skin to seek the help of an old friend from Scenic Jade Palace. I also paid quite a price. I hope you do not disappoint me!"


    "I will definitely do my best in seeking Purple Wood Beads," said Qin Yun.


    "Hmph, it would be a joke if you can''t even find one." Dragon King Lianyang scoffed before he picked up a scroll and token that were lying in front of him. He threw them over and said, "The scroll is a map of the Effulgent Great World. As for the token, bring it to the Scenic Jade Palace and someone will receive you at their entrance."


    Qin Yun extended his hand to grab the scroll and token. He bowed and said, "Thank you, Senior. I bid you farewell."


    "If you want to thank me, find lots of Purple Wood Beads. If you can''t even find one, don''t bother coming back. Just return to your Great Chang world directly," said Dragon King Lianyang.


    "I will do my best." Qin Yun bowed and left.


    The dragon palace had many Water race soldiers as well as crustacean generals.


    After Qin Yun left Lianyang Dragon Palace, he quickly flew high into the clouds.


    As he rode a cloud, he looked down.


    There was a huge lake directly below that he could not see an end to. The lake''s name was Lianyang Lake. It extended out fifteen hundred kilometers and it was ruled by Dragon King Lianyang.


    "I wonder if Huan''er is here in the Effulgent Great World. And if he is here, where is he?" thought Qin Yun. "If I have an opportunity, I should seek out news of Huan''er. As for now, I should focus on the important matters! I will first head towards Scenic Jade Palace."


    He looked at the map of the Effulgent Great World.


    "I''m here and the Scenic Jade Palace is there." With that, Qin Yun put away the scroll and flew to the south as a stream of light.


    (End of Volume)

 382 Trial Candidates

    Chapter 382: Trial Candidates


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun flew through the clouds using his Beam Transformation Art, but he only went at thirty percent of his maximum speed. It was best to keep a low profile in the Effulgent Great World. After all, there were too many experts there. For instance, many cultivators that ascended from Small Worlds became illustrious figures who made a name for themselves in the Effulgent Great World! There were also existences from extraordinary backgrounds who were born as Skygods or Skydragons¡­


    The numerous top-factions in the Effulgent Great World even had backers who were powerful figures in the Heavenly Courts! Some were backed by a particular Daoist Golden Immortal or Buddhist Buddha.


    There were even the magi, dragon, demons, and fiends who thrived in the Effulgent Great World.


    "Here, Skyimmortals are considered true experts," thought Qin Yun. "Those at the Essence Soul realm are uncountable. The reason why Ancestral Master Zhang has never come here is one, to protect his homeworld, the Great Chang world, and because he does not wish to be repressed by the other experts here. He is the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple, after all."


    Ancestral Master Zhang had the Dharmic formulations that the Dao Ancestor had imparted. All he lacked was time.


    ¡­


    The Scenic Jade Palace was a hundred and fifty thousand kilometers from Lianyang Lake. This was the first time Qin Yun was flying such a great distance. And as he was using only thirty percent of his Beam Transformation Art''s speed, he took a full day to arrive in Scenic Jade Palace.


    His journey went safely since powerful existences like immortals and fiendcelestials would not attack mortals. And among mortals, the Connate Golden Core was the limit.


    Therefore, Connate Golden Cores were especially safe when they traversed the world.


    In contrast, Essence Souls had to be wary while traversing the world. If they were not careful, they might be captured by a random fiend.


    "I''m here." Qin Yun looked at the mountain cluster that was entirely illuminated. It was the Scenic Jade mountain range that stretched out contiguously for slightly more than fifteen thousand kilometers. There was a lake amid the mountains and cities around it. Large numbers of humans and demons lived in these cities.


    The entire Scenic Jade mountain range was the Scenic Jade Palace''s territory.


    "As expected of a top sect of the Effulgent Great World," thought Qin Yun. "Rumor has it that it''s a Daoist line left behind by three Daoist Golden Immortals."


    Sou!


    He swooped down and flew to the entrance of Scenic Jade Palace.


    The moment he landed, Qin Yun saw an azure-robed Daoist approach him. The man traversed a thousand feet in one step and in a few steps, he arrived in front of Qin Yun.


    "Lianyang Dragon Palace''s Qin Yun?" greeted the azure-robed Daoist with a smile. "You came rather early. Follow me. I''ll get you settled in. You can set off with the rest when the Ancient Augury World trip begins."


    "Sorry for troubling you." Qin Yun smiled as he followed.


    The duo passed through the sect entrance and flew amid the mountains. Soon, they appeared in a towering and grandiose city that had numerous active array formations, sending out streams of light. The city had a huge populace with humans and demons living in harmony.


    "My Scenic Jade Palace has numerous disciples. The daily expenditure is immense and we require mortals to provide our resources," explained the azure-robed Daoist enthusiastically with a smile. "The city is mostly filled with human and demon mortals as a result. Only a few Essence Soul realms are here to manage it."


    "A city with a population of millions. As expected of the Scenic Jade Palace," marveled Qin Yun.


    "There are many mortals that wish to enter from the outside world. After all, when my Scenic Jade Palace recruits disciples, we naturally select first from our own," said the azure-robed Daoist. He led Qin Yun to land in a beautiful residence inside the city.


    "Steward Yu." There was already an elder waiting in front of the residence. He immediately greeted the azure-robed Daoist in a sycophantic manner.


    "This is a guest of our Scenic Jade Palace. Arrange to have him settled in," instructed the Daoist.


    "Yes, yes." replied the elder immediately.


    "Qin Yun." The Daoist smiled at Qin Yun. "Just be at ease and enjoy your stay here. Once the other cultivators arrive, you can set off with them."


    "Thank you," said Qin Yun.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin, please follow me," said the elder in a somewhat toady manner. He was only in charge of welcoming guests and none of the ones that came were people he could afford to offend! The itinerant cultivators without any background were beneath him but Qin Yun had Dragon King Lianyang as his sponsor, allowing him to be a guest of the Scenic Jade Palace! Thus, the attendants were very polite to him.


    ******


    The residence was extremely scenic. Be it the tree, roof beams, or the tiles on the ground, they were made of treasured materials. On the walls hung portraits drawn by Skyimmortals. The fish in the ponds were Essence Soul realm demons that were prisoners there. After touring the residence, Qin Yun felt that the entire residence would be worth an inferior-grade Numinous treasure even if it was sold at a discount.


    "Naturally, the place where they house guests can''t be bad," thought Qin Yun to himself. "Is this because they want to uphold their reputation?"


    Qin Yun took up residence and enjoyed rare delicacies daily.


    In the following days, esteemed guests constantly streamed in.


    The eighth day was the day they set off!


    "The passage of time in the Effulgent Great World is different from my homeworld. Time passes slower here. A day here is three days in my homeworld. In that case, I can''t spend too much time here. If I spent four years here, that would be more than ten years in my homeworld." As Qin Yun ruminated over the matter, he was brought to the yard of the residence by an attendant.


    "Fellow Daoist Qin."


    "Fellow Daoist Cang."


    "Fellow Daoist Lian."


    From the moment Qin Yun arrived, he was having nice chats with the other guests.


    They were not Scenic Jade Palace disciples, but visitors just like Qin Yun!


    Moments later.


    A large group of cultivators descended from high in the sky and landed in the yard. Leading them was a silver-haired, white-robed man. He swept his gaze over the group, causing Qin Yun and company to feel suppressed.


    "Skyimmortal." Qin Yun immediately determined that the man was a Skyimmortal existence. After all, he himself was approaching a Skyimmortal in strength.


    Behind the man were twenty-three cultivators. There were some at the Essence Soul realm as well as some at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "The five of you and my Scenic Jade Palace''s twenty-three disciples will be the candidates my Scenic Jade Palace will send to participate in the Ancient Augury World''s trials," said the man nonchalantly. "I''m warning you five. When you are in the Ancient Augury World, you are representing my Scenic Jade Palace. Thus, do well. Don''t you shame my Scenic Jade Palace."


    Qin Yun and company naturally agreed.


    "Let''s set off then." The silver-haired man waved his hand.


    A cloud rose and carried the group of people.


    Whoosh¡ª


    On the gigantic cloud, the silver-haired man sat cross-legged right in front. Behind him were the twenty-eight trial candidates.


    "There are five outsiders this time."


    "Hmph, there are outsiders every time. If there had been more spots for us, my junior brother would definitely have been able to head to the Ancient Augury World."


    "The grand sect competition only allowed for eighteen nominees! With my strength, I would definitely have obtained a spot if twenty spots were offered based on my ranking in the sect. There''s no need to waste so much effort to exchange for this opportunity."


    The Scenic Jade Palace disciples discussed this. A few of them looked at Qin Yun and the other four outsiders unhappily.


    They also made no effort to hide their voices. Clearly, they wanted Qin Yun and company to hear them.


    "These outsiders mostly have strength inferior to our Scenic Jade Palace''s disciples. They will only embarrass our Scenic Jade Palace by going."


    "Our Scenic Jade Palace is a top sect. Those that can go are those that ranked in the sect competition! Everyone is extraordinary. How can we be comparable to outsiders that only got the chance because of their background?"


    ¡­


    Despite Qin Yun and company hearing them loud and clear, they acted as though they could not hear them.


    "There''s no need to bother with them. Once we arrive in the Ancient Augury World, we can split up and take action."


    "Hmph! These top sects have monopolized the Ancient Augury World! Which one of us didn''t pay a huge price to obtain a spot?" Qin Yun and company chatted via voice transmission.


    "Brother Qin, among us five outsiders, you and I are the only two mortals," said an ox demon with a voice transmission. "Why don''t we travel together? We can watch out for each other. Of course, we can separate whenever you wish."


    "Sure," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Then, do you have any information on the Ancient Augury World? I''m willing to exchange what I have with you," said the ox demon with a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun took a look. "That''s definitely negotiable."


    ******


    Despite traveling very fast on the cloud, it took half a day for the silver-haired Skyimmortal to bring the twenty-eight trial candidates to their destination.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Following that, they tore through layers of clouds.


    The first cloud layer was most ordinary but it became more and more dangerous beyond the second cloud.


    When they charged through the sixth cloud layer, there were hundreds of millions of electric bolts on the cloud''s surface. Even after they flew far away, the sky remained bright. There was a massive planet in the distance.


    The planet floated in the sky.


    "The Ancient Augury World."


    "We are reaching the Ancient Augury World." The eyes of the trial candidates lit up. They looked in awe at the distant planet.


    Sou!


    The silver-haired Skyimmortal steered the cloud to bring the candidates flying towards the planet after transforming into a beam of light.

 383 Inside the Ancient Augury world

    Chapter 383: Inside the Ancient Augury World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and company spent more than half an hour flying before arriving on the giant planet that could be seen from a distance.


    The Ancient Augury World was also a planet in and of itself. When they came close they realized that a massive array formation enveloped the entire planet.


    "Phew¨C"


    The silver-haired Skyimmortal led Qin Yun and company into a descent until they reached a spot in the middle of a palace complex.


    "This is the Transference Token." The silver-haired Skyimmortal waved his hands as twenty-eight beams of light flew towards the trial candidates. Each one of them reached out to grab their respective token. Qin Yun looked at his, it was a bronze token that looked extremely ordinary.


    "The entire Ancient Augury World is enclosed in an array formation. Just use your Dharmic powers activate the Transference Token. The first time it is activated, the Ancient Augury World''s array formation will teleport you inside. The second time it is activated, it will teleport you out," said the silver-haired Skyimmortal indifferently. "Be it falling into a tiny Grotto-heaven or the freezing void itself, activating the Transference Token will allow you to immediately escape as long as you''re in the Ancient Augury World! You will be teleported here every time."


    "However, your trial ends the moment you leave," said the Skyimmortal. "Therefore, be extremely prudent in your use of the Transference Token."


    Everyone present was cognizant of the situation.


    The opportunity to enter was rare, so who would easily leave?


    "You can spend at most three years in the Ancient Augury World," said the Skyimmortal. "Once those three years are up, the Ancient Augury World''s array formation will teleport you out regardless of your wishes."


    "Also¡­"


    "Although the Transference Token can be activated with a thought, there''s always a chance you might be sneaked up on and fail to activate the Transference Token. It would be an unwarranted death," said the Skyimmortal indifferently. "Although there are numerous treasures in the Ancient Augury World''s trial, there is a high chance you''ll lose your lives. Be careful."


    "Elder, don''t worry. The Transference Token can be activated with a thought. It''s better than the even top life-preservation items. If one were to die with such a powerful item at their disposal, no one but them is to blame."


    "The world is dangerous everywhere. But the outside world does not have as many opportunities as the Ancient Augury World."


    Everyone spoke their mind.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Even ordinary Void Transference treasures required time.


    As for the Transference Token, it borrowed the powers of the array that enveloped the Ancient Augury World. It activated with a thought, reducing the chance of death for the trial participants as much as possible. Without it, abject losses would be possible if large numbers of disciples from different sects fought inside.


    "If you come out early, come to Scenic Jade Garden to rest. It belongs to our Scenic Jade Palace." The silver-haired Skyimmortal pointed to a large garden behind him. It too had many buildings. "Alright, it''s time for you to set off."


    As he spoke, he turned to walk towards the garden.


    "Brother Ye, it''s really rare for you to escort the disciples for the Scenic Jade Palace yourself. Here, join me and have some drinks." Another voice came from a distant garden.


    "Alcoholic, you are here too?" The silver-haired Skyimmortal smiled as he walked over. He reached the entrance to the garden in one step, and with another step, he vanished from Qin Yun''s line of sight.


    ¡­


    "Is that the Roll?"


    "I''ve long heard of it but this is the first time I''m seeing it."


    Qin Yun and the group of trial participants looked up at the clouds floating above them. There was text condensed beneath the clouds:


    1: Other Shore Monastery, Arhat Jueli


    2: Prime Numinous Valley, Daoist Dongxiu


    3: Nine Truths Temple, Immortal Zhenru


    ¡­


    100: Blood Fiend Tower, Fiendcelestial Fuyan


    "These are the people ranked in the top hundred in the Ancient Augury World''s trial over hundreds of thousands of years. Anyone that can make it on that list is an impressive figure! I heard that Senior Zhenru could already slay Skyfiends at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm. Now, he is the Temple Lord of the Nine Truths Temple. He is one of the top existences of our Effulgent Great World."


    "Daoist Dongxiu, who is ranked second, is very impressive as well. Rumor has it that even the Heavenly Courts have sent someone to summon him to be an official there."


    "As for Arhat Jueli, who is ranked first, it appears as though he has vanished. There''s no information about him."


    "Buddhists tend to keep a low profile."


    "I did hear rumors that Arhat Jueli joined a Buddha in cultivation."


    Upon seeing the roll, everyone began discussing.


    Qin Yun knew little so he mostly listened while he marveled inwardly.


    Every generation, powerful figures from all over the Effulgent Great World would come here to partake in the trial. It was naturally impressive to be ranked in the top hundred based on the treasures collected. The ranking¡­ was also a type of competition among the top sects in the Effulgent Great World.


    "Only one person from our Scenic Jade Palace is ranked on it. I wonder when the name of a second Scenic Jade Palace disciple will appear on it."


    "We have Senior Sister Redjade here this time, her strength will likely allow her to rank."


    "That''s right. Senior Sister Redjade has defeated a Skyfiend before."


    The Scenic Jade Palace disciples fawned over her.


    Qin Yun looked at the red-robed woman in surprise. This third Firmament Essence Soul woman managed to defeat a Skyfiend?


    The best elite disciples of top sects in the Effulgent Great World were truly impressive.


    "To rank on the roll is not that easy. Both strength and luck are required," said the red-robed woman indifferently. "Alright, make haste and enter."


    "Yes."


    Immediately, the group of disciples replied. Clearly, they willingly abided their Senior Sister Redjade.


    Buzz!


    The twenty-eight trial candidates held their Transference Token and activated them with their Dharmic powers.


    Buzz.


    With Qin Yun''s present realm, his grasp of the void was extremely keen. He discovered that the Transference Token he activated was only a catalyst. The array formation that enveloped the entire planet immediately produced energy that wrapped him and, with a whoosh, he rapidly experienced Void Transference. He forcibly tore through the void at an extremely fast speed.


    "Typical Void Transference uses the fluctuations of the void to ease travel. But this forcibly penetrates the void. It''s really overbearing. That''s right, it is an array formation that envelops an entire world after all." Qin Yun felt the scene in front of him change as he appeared above a desolate valley.


    The valley was filled with wildflowers that exuded a flowery fragrance.


    All twenty-eight people had been teleported there.


    "Junior Brothers and Junior Sisters, the trial begins now." Senior Sister Redjade swept her gaze and said nonchalantly. "All of you, be careful."


    With that said, she took a stride and flashed as a blurry red flame before vanishing into the distant horizon.


    "How fast. It''s even faster than my Beam Transformation Art," thought Qin Yun.


    "Time to split up."


    "Let''s go!"


    "You five outsiders, if you encounter other sects, don''t you embarrass us. After all, you are holding our Scenic Jade Palace''s tokens. You represent the Scenic Jade Palace."


    The Scenic Jade Palace disciples were already prepared. They either traveled alone or in small groups. They rapidly flew off, leaving the outsiders behind.


    The five outsiders quickly separated as well.


    Qin Yun and Ox Demon were the only two Connate Golden Cores among the outsiders. They temporarily chose to travel together.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Ox Demon exchanged the intelligence they possessed of the Ancient Augury World.


    "Your intelligence is not bad. It''s rather detailed," said Ox Demon with a chuckle.


    "Yours is pretty good as well," replied Qin Yun with a smile. "Brother Ox, where do you plan on heading now?"


    The man and demon were above a forest.


    "We are mortals. Those Essence Souls will not attack us," said Ox Demon with a smile. "Our opponents are the other mortals. Also, the Ancient Augury World itself poses some danger. As long as we do not venture into somewhere too dangerous, anywhere would do. Brother Qin, where do you think is good?"


    "Let''s head south first." Qin Yun pointed to the south.


    "Alright, it''s your call." Ox Demon nodded.


    Whoosh.


    Both of them rode a cloud.


    "Let''s agree beforehand. When the time comes, we will split the treasures based on our individual capabilities," said Ox Demon.


    "Sure, we will leave it to our own capabilities," said Qin Yun with a smile. He was just familiarizing himself with the Ancient Augury World and keeping a low profile. Once he knew enough, he could act alone.


    "Heh heh." Ox Demon laughed in delight as his eyes suffused a blue light. He looked around him, clearly activating a unique divine power. Qin Yun smiled as well and, with a thought, a third eye opened at his glabella. He surveyed his surroundings with his Eye of Lightning.


    "Heavenly Eye?" Ox Demon exclaimed when he saw it. "Impressive, I have always wanted to cultivate a Heavenly Eye divine power but have not been able to find one."


    "I also only obtained it by chance." Qin Yun did not elaborate.


    Ox Demon looked at Qin Yun and pondered, "He is able to cast a Heavenly Eye divine power? From the looks of it, he''s better at searching for treasures. I can follow him for a period of time."


    The two flew through the endless Ancient Augury World in search of treasures.


    A few days later.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning noticed a treasure aura rising in a desolate plain more than hundred and fifty kilometers away.

 384 Wise Choice

    Chapter 384: Wise Choice


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother Ox, this way," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission. He rapidly headed in the direction of the rising treasure aura.


    "You found some treasure?" Ox Demon''s eyes lit up as he immediately followed.


    "There is a treasure aura slightly beyond hundred and fifty kilometers away," said Qin Yun.


    Ox Demon immediately marveled, "Brother Qin, your Heavenly Eye divine power sure is impressive. You can see treasure auras even from a distance of a hundred and fifty kilometers. This eyes of mine can only see treasure light but not treasure aura."


    Treasure light was blinding, making it naturally easy to see.


    But if the treasure light was obstructed, one would only see tiny bits of treasure aura that seeped into the surroundings. The difficulty of seeing treasure aura was clearly much higher.


    Sou! Sou!


    The both of them rode on different clouds as they flew over.


    They quickly traversed the hundred and fifty kilometers.


    "We are here. It''s right below." Qin Yun stopped. Ox Demon stopped as well and stared down intently. There was a plain of wilderness covered in weeds. He saw nothing else.


    "The Ancient Augury World was once a thriving cultivation world. There were numerous sects that lived here." Ox Demon surveyed his surroundings carefully and said with a smile, "However, it experienced several large wars, and legends tell that the last great war was particularly devastating. It was said that many terrifying existences in the Effulgent Great World participated in it, reducing the Ancient Augury World to a ruin! Skygods, Skyimmortals, Skyfiends, and Grand Magi¡­ many of them died. Later, this place was sealed and left as a trial for junior disciples. We have to be careful. There are dangerous places in the Ancient Augury World that even Skyimmortals might not dare to enter."


    "This world has been probed for hundreds of thousands of years. The most dangerous spots were probably already found," said Qin Yun.


    A war that ravaged the world until it was nothing but ruins.


    Over hundreds of thousands of years, generation after generation would be sent to the trials¡­


    Qin Yun always suspected that an extremely dangerous secret lied in the Ancient Augury World. It was the reason why disciples belonging to the Skyimmortal and Skygod realms were sent to probe it! They glorified this operation by calling it a ''trial.''


    After the disciples finished probing the majority of a dangerous area, the top sects would send Skyimmortals or Skygods to ''pluck the fruits.'' After all, to large sects, existences at the Skyimmortal level were the most important members. They were not to take on risks easily. As for Essence Souls? Just the tribulations were enough to make many of them lose their lives. Besides, they were given Transference Tokens. The ratio of disciples that perished was within acceptable limits.


    "I see it. There are no ambushes around," said Ox Demon with a voice transmission. "Let''s quickly get the treasure."


    "Yea." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A flying sword that resembled a leaf flashed, streaking forward into the desolate plains.


    "Rip!"


    The flying sword was extremely sharp, leaving a deep ravine across the land. It revealed a sealing array formation that swirled with light. The array formation trembled after being struck. Immediately, lightning sparked wantonly and flames roared.


    Qin Yun secretly sighed upon seeing this. "From the looks of it, the treasures have been deliberately left behind by the top sects."


    After hundreds of thousands of years of searching, the amount of treasures in the Ancient Augury World would logically reduce! In order to maintain the ''challenge'' of the trials, the top sects that sealed the Ancient Augury World deliberately hid some treasures. However, these treasures were most ordinary! Typically, they were treasures at least a grade below the Numinous treasure grade. They were just some inconsequential treasures that the top sects had on hand.


    However, these treasures were sufficient to attract the weaker Essence Souls.


    "Brother Qin, leave the cracking of the array to me." Ox Demon immediately felt confident after seeing the array formation''s might. With a large ax in each hand, he charged forward.


    "Whoosh."


    His body enlarged suddenly, rising to a height slightly more than a hundred feet. He looked like a towering hill as purple light swirled across his body. Despite the continued assaults from the fire and lightning, his skin showed no signs of damage.


    "What a powerful body." Qin Yun exclaimed inwardly. "It resembles the Primordial Chaos Sect''s Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation of my homeworld."


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!" Ox Demon brandished his ax and slammed it against the array formation, striking it with a murderous bloodlust.


    Each strike turned more belligerent than the last as his powerful stance slowly increased.


    Finally, after more than ten strikes, the array formation cracked open.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    At the moment the array formation cracked, the treasures hidden beneath it immediately rose into the sky as streams of light. They all flew out in separate directions.


    "Those are mine." Ox Demon had volunteered to charge forward and crack the array so as to grab the treasures easily. Flipping his hands to put away his axes, he stretched out his hands as fast as lightning. His arms were very long and his palms were huge as well. With a lightning-fast grab, he caught two streams of light.


    But ten streams of light had risen into the sky. They were very fast and their trajectories unpredictable.


    After all, they were deliberately left behind by the top sects¡­ there was naturally going to be a test.


    "Oh?" Ox Demon looked up and was shocked by what he saw.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Streams of threadlike light appeared in the surrounding area. Threads that resembled spider webs rapidly wrapped around the streams of light. The final thread flashed and quickly caught up to the final stream of light.


    All the eight streams of light were being bound by the threads.


    Following that, the bound eight streams of light were brought in front of Qin Yun. He extended his hand to grab them.


    "What?" Ox Demon turned a little anxious.


    Qin Yun put away his transcendent-grade Green Leaf Flying Sword and looked at the black rocks floating in front of him. He could sense a chill from them.


    "Supreme-grade Yin Metalrock." Qin Yun extended his hand, which was protected with Dharmic powers. He weighed the rock in his hand and nodded slightly. A faint smile formed. "A kilogram."


    Transcendent-grade Yin Metalrocks were precious refinement materials. Half a kilogram of Yin Metalrocks was equal in value to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure.


    Following that, he took out his Cosmic Bag and threw the kilogram of supreme-grade Yin Metalrock inside.


    "A kilogram means it''s equivalent to two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. I never expected to receive two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures in the first few days. If my luck remains this good, I could easily be able to amass three or four inferior-grade Numinous treasures." Qin Yun chuckled inwardly. "However, it''s obvious that things like this will not keep happening."


    To find a treasure spot every few days? And one so easily obtainable?


    How was that possible?


    The top sects were definitely not that generous.


    "I never expected that, despite charging ahead to crack the array, all I would get for it were two portions of the supreme-grade Yin Metalrock. He received eight?" Ox Demon was secretly envious. "Judging from the size, eight portions will weigh about a kilogram."


    A transcendent-grade Dharma treasure would still make Connate Golden Cores turn envious even if they were the leftovers from large factions.


    "Let''s leave quickly. The commotion from just now might attract others here," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, let''s leave quickly," said Ox Demon immediately.


    They departed on clouds.


    As they flew off, Ox Demon said with a laugh. "Brother Qin, you sure are impressive. Your flying sword managed to bind the eight streams of light in just a moment. What move was that?"


    "Oh, it''s called Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart. It''s strength is ordinary but it''s quite fast," replied Qin Yun with a smile.


    The Gossamer Setting Sun Sword Art was a flying sword art that Qin Yun cultivated in just after he entered the Connate realm. Now that he was temporarily keeping a low profile in the Ancient Augury World, he had used that strike to hide his true strength. Of course, at his present realm, the might of the Wispy Thousand-knotted Heart was rapidly approaching the Connate Paramount realm. Its speed was even more ludicrous as a result.


    Ox Demon said with a smile, "Brother Qin, I charged ahead just now and fended off the fire and lightning to crack the array. However, I only received two of the ten supreme-grade Yin Metalrock¡­ Isn''t that a little too unfair?"


    "Unfair?" Qin Yun was taken aback. He looked at the Ox Demon and was immediately enlightened. He sighed secretly. "That''s right. This ox demon is only a demon at the Connate Golden Core realm. Two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures are not something he can just let go. Back in my homeworld, I received the transcendent-grade Dharma treasure, Golden Core Cauldron, in the Scenic Yang Cave Abode. Just a mere transcendent-grade Dharma treasure had caused such a stir."


    Qin Yun naturally found one or two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures very common by this point in his journeys.


    But to true Connate Golden Cores or even a first Firmament Essence Soul, a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure was simply too enticing!


    "Brother Ox, we agreed previously that the treasures would be distributed based on our capabilities," said Qin Yun.


    "That''s right, based on our capabilities." Ox Demon grinned.


    Boom!


    A horrifying repressive force spread out in the surrounding five kilometers as it enveloped Qin Yun. Ox Demon stared at Qin Yun. "I''m more capable than you. All your treasures should belong to me."


    "Dao domain?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Yes, a Dao domain!" Ox Demon''s stance was extremely mighty. He looked at Qin Yun and said, "After I stepped into the Dao, I was in no rush to condense an Essence Soul. It was all to enter this Ancient Augury World. After all, I''m safer in the Ancient Augury World as a mortal. Those Essence Souls will not casually attack a mortal."


    "Alright, if you do not want to be teleported out now, hand over the supreme-grade Yin Metalrock." Ox Demon looked at Qin Yun. "I believe you will make the wise choice."

 385 Meng Huan

    Chapter 385: Meng Huan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ox Demon''s aura spread out as he released his Dao domain, pressing down on Qin Yun. He did not dare attack directly, for if he did he might frighten the ''weak'' Qin Yun into activating his Transference Token to escape. It would be too late for regret if that happened!


    It was difficult for Connate Golden Cores to obtain treasures in the Ancient Augury World. The Eye of Lightning was the most powerful divine power that the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple, Ancestral Master Zhang, had chanced upon. In the Effulgent Great World, the number of Connate Golden Core cultivators that possessed an equivalent Heavenly Eye divine power was pathetically low. Most of the Connate Golden Cores in the Ancient Augury World could only see treasure light but the treasures that leaked treasure light would have long been found.


    Therefore, it was rather impressive for a Connate Golden Core to obtain two or three transcendent-grade Dharma treasures while inside the Ancient Augury World over a three-year period.


    "You have one advantage over me. Your Heavenly Eye divine power makes it much easier to find treasures," chuckled Ox Demon. "It''s not worth it to give up the whole trial for a kilogram of supreme-grade Yin Metalrock."


    "Yes, it''s not worth it." Qin Yun nodded.


    "So hand it over and I will spare you. We will then go our separate ways." Ox Demon held back his impatience as he urged, "That''s already very benevolent on my behalf."


    "Benevolent?" Qin Yun smiled. "Alright, I''ll be benevolent as well."


    "You will be benevolent as well?" Ox Demon was slightly taken aback as he had an ominous feeling.


    Qin Yun looked at him.


    Boom!


    A terrifying might emanated out suddenly with Qin Yun at its center. Instantly, the force overwhelmed Ox Demon''s Dao domain and encompassed a large area, causing countless blades of wild grass to droop.


    "Dao domain?" Ox Demon was alarmed as the color drained from his face. He could sense the Heaven and Earth powers freeze around him. He could not help but say, "Fifteen kilometers?"


    His Dao domain was only five kilometers!


    This was a qualitative difference!


    "Yes, my Dao domain is fifteen kilometers." Qin Yun smiled at him. "Bigger than yours."


    Ox Demon''s expression quickly changed into an embarrassed, sycophantic smile. "Impressive, I never expected Brother Qin to be this patient. You still haven''t condensed an Essence Soul despite your Dao domain reaching fifteen kilometers. Brother Qin, Brother Qin. I was wrong. I was just too stupid. Just treat me as a fart and let me pass."


    "You are a great demon from the Golden Pinnacle Mountain. Why are you this shameless?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "Shame is bullshit," said Ox Demon said obsequiously. "Brother Qin, please spare me."


    "I already said I''m quite benevolent." Qin Yun looked at him. "Hand over the two supreme-grade Yin Metalrock you received. Oh, and that pair of axes you were using also looked pretty good. They are first-grade Dharma treasures, after all. Two Yin Metalrocks and the two axes. Hand them over and I''ll spare you."


    Ox Demon could not help but say, "I only tried to take your Yin Metalrocks. But you want to extort me for two Dharma treasures?"


    "They don''t even add up to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure." Qin Yun shook his head. "I''m very benevolent and even gave you a choice. Either you hand them over, or you activate the Transference Token and get lost. Quickly make your choice. If you don''t, I''ll decide for you."


    Ox Demon clenched his teeth.


    "Three¡­ two¡­" Qin Yun began counting. A flying sword was already slowly flying out from his fingertip.


    "I''ll hand them over. I''ll hand them over, alright?" Ox Demon shouted immediately.


    Although he felt indignant, he steeled his aching heart and threw the two pieces of supreme-grade Yin Metalrock and his beloved axes to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and produced the Two World Picture, instantly storing away the axes and the supreme-grade Yin Metalrock.


    "My Dharma treasures." Ox Demon''s heart ached for his loss but there was nothing he could do.


    At the same time, he turned nervous.


    He was afraid, afraid that Qin Yun would continue pressing him after taking his treasures! That would be extremely shameless, but not impossible


    "Don''t worry. I will not attack again," said Qin Yun as he left on a cloud.


    "Brother Qin." Ox Demon could not help but send a voice transmission when he saw Qin Yun start to leave. "If I had not taken action and we continued to travel together, would you have abandoned decorum at the end to snatch my treasures?"


    "I wouldn''t," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    Ox Demon stood in his spot, dazed. As he watched Qin Yun get farther and farther away, he could not help but murmur through gritted teeth. "We did not have much of a relationship to begin with. How is it possible that he would not lose decorum with me once more treasure was up for grabs?"


    Ox Demon felt helpless. "This is terrible. I''ve lost so much. I have to quickly seek out more treasures. I hope I can get more treasures! I''ll be able to answer to Master in that case."


    Eighty percent of the treasures he received would have to be handed over to his master.


    In order to gain an opportunity to enter the Ancient Augury World over numerous other great demons, he had thought of every mean possible.


    Ox Demon immediately departed with a whoosh.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun rode the cloud and flew alone.


    "I originally planned on scouring the Ancient Augury World together with that ox demon, investigating while keeping a low profile. After a month or two of investigations, we could have separated and sought treasures by ourselves. I never expected the plan to change so quickly!" Qin Yun opened his Eye of Lightning and, as he flew, he observed the Ancient Augury World. He was in no hurry to venture into the most dangerous lands! Many placed had hundreds of thousands of years of history. A few months meant nothing in comparison.


    He had to get a thorough understanding of the world before deciding on a target to venture deep into!


    He needed to obtain three inferior-grade Numinous treasures!


    ******


    While Qin Yun began his lone search, three figures flying together above a desert on the other side of the Ancient Augury World.


    "The Ancient Augury World has been scoured numerous times over the past hundreds of thousands of years. It''s getting more and more difficult to obtain Numinous treasures. It''s been a year since we joined forces but we have not even seen an inferior-grade Numinous treasure. All we''ve found so far are some refinement materials, and some Dharma treasure fragments left behind from the original wars," said a lanky man with curled lips.


    A lady laughed in response. "Splitting the items we received over a year equally, each of us has about two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures. After three years¡­ if everything goes smoothly, we can each get an inferior-grade Dharma treasure."


    The lanky man could not help but comment, "In order to gain this opportunity, I spent enough of my sect contribution points to equal the cost of half an inferior-grade Numinous treasure." He looked at an aloof, white-dressed youth beside him and said with a smile, "It''s Junior Brother Meng Huan that''s truly impressive. He ascended only a few years ago and already managed to win a spot in here at the sect''s tournament."


    The white-dressed youth did not say a word.


    He was none other than Meng Huan.


    As someone who had ascended into this plane¡­ especially one who came from a world with thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, he gained the attention of many sects at Ascension Platform. Later, he was directly recruited by the Effulgent Great World''s top sect, Jade Tripod Sect. The Jade Tripod Sect went to great extents to groom him and, with him coming from a world with thin spiritual energies, Meng Huan, who had more than three centuries of cultivation, immediately underwent a quantum leap in strength after coming to the Great World with rich spiritual energies, as well as access to numerous cultivation techniques and Dharma treasures.


    In order to obtain enough treasures, he deliberately controlled his strength and won an entry into the Ancient Augury World at a second Firmament Essence Soul level sect tournament.


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan''s homeworld has thin spiritual energies. They can only enter the Connate realm by grasping the Heavenly Dao''s intent. After that, they can only reach the Connate Golden Core after stepping into the Dao." The lady in azure clothes clearly felt some affection towards Meng Huan as she said with a smile. "With such difficult conditions for cultivation, he would naturally soar in an environment like the Effulgent Great World."


    Those that could ascend in such conditions were naturally monstrous.


    Apart from Qin Yun¡­ Meng Huan was already one of the rare figures that managed to ascend in his world''s long history.


    Qin Yun had a lot of outside experiences to begin with. Meng Huan was a native of that world. Also, he only learned sword arts. The most brilliant one being the Sword of Heaven Earth that Qin Yun left behind. Meng Huan eventually attained the realm of shattering the void and was truly an impressive warrior.


    "I''m nothing. My father is ten times if not a hundred times better than me," said Meng Huan.


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan," said the lanky man with a shake of his head. "You always mention how powerful your father is. If he is that powerful, you should have long found him."


    "The Effulgent Great World is nearly boundless. There are countless Essence Souls here. Some even spend all their time in reclusive cultivation," said Meng Huan. "There is no way to seek out every Essence Soul in this world. After I leave the Ancient Augury World, I will have enough treasures. I''ll definitely request Senior Old Man Eyeless''s help in divining my father''s location."


    "Didn''t you try it once already? You paid the price of a first-grade Dharma treasure but nothing was figured out," said the lanky man.


    "Elder already mentioned that my father is still alive but he is being shrouded by the heavens so that even he cannot divine his location," said Meng Huan. "However, Elder said that if my father is in the Effulgent Great World, Old Man Eyeless would definitely have the capability to divine his whereabouts."


    The lady beside said with a smile, "Then, consider this me congratulating you on your reunion with your father. Your father is ten or even a hundred times stronger than you. Perhaps he might have had some huge opportunity."


    "Time in Junior Brother Meng Huan''s homeworld passes too quickly. A day in our Effulgent Great World is three years there," said the lanky man. "It has only been a few years since Junior Brother Meng Huan''s father ascended. Perhaps his strength is not much higher than Junior Brother Meng Huan''s."


    Meng Huan did not say a word.


    The thing he wanted most when he ascended to the Effulgent Great World was to meet his father.


    It was the father he idolized the most! In his mind, his father was a peerless figure. He had always been proceeding forward to follow in his father''s footsteps.


    "Father, once I exit the Ancient Augury World, I''ll have enough treasures to seek Old Man Eyeless''s help. I will definitely find you," thought Meng Huan to himself.

 386 Helping With Good Intentions

    Chapter 386: Helping With Good Intentions


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Ancient Augury World was desolate and uninhabited, causing the vegetation to become especially lush over the years. Despite being constructed by immortals hundreds of thousands of years ago, the cities had turned to ruins and were overrun by vegetation.


    It looked peaceful but the entire world was an ancient battlefield in the end. There was danger lurking all over.


    "Bronze Tripod Mountain." Qin Yun looked at a towering, damaged tripod tens of kilometers tall into the distance. It was flipped around and was taller than the surrounding mountains. Most of it was immersed amid the clouds.


    "This ancient tripod is in shambles yet it still possesses such terrifying might." Qin Yun could sense a terrifying aura surge towards him despite standing far away. "Back when it was in perfect form, it was worth at least a superior-grade Numinous Treasure Mountain! According to the intelligence, Bronze Tripod Mountain''s interior forms a Grotto-heaven of its own. After hundreds of thousands of years, it''s unknown how many trial candidates have died in there. Yet, to this day it has not been fully explored."


    "It''s too dangerous. I can''t take the risk of exploring it." Although Qin Yun had long received general information about it, he wanted to see it with his own eyes before making a judgment.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun turned and left.


    The Ancient Augury World was very large and had many perilous areas, so the trial candidates would make use of the ability to escape with a thought using the Transference Token when probing it. After generations of people had explored it, many dangerous areas had been completely trampled through! However, it was unknown when Bronze Tripod Mountain would have its deepest secrets revealed.


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had spent more than three months in the Ancient Augury World.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the side of a lake, resting his exhausted mind. It was truly tiring to maintain the Eye of Lightning for long periods of time without rest.


    And not far away.


    A black mist was secretly spying on him as a face materialized in the mist.


    "A Connate Golden Core mortal? All by himself? He shall be the one! Robbing someone is much faster than looking for treasure!" A sinister grin crept onto the misty face.


    Sou!


    The black mist rapidly billowed towards Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly felt something as he opened his eyes to look over.


    He saw the black mist stop a distance away before transforming into a black-robed elder with a gonfalon. He was looking coldly at Qin Yun as he sniggered. He gently shook the gonfalon in his hand while dense, fiendish shadows flew out amid roars. Qin Yun immediately discerned the appearance of eighty fiends.


    They were all draped in black armor with black helms on their heads. Even their skin was black. However, their eyes were blood-red. Black mists lingered across their bodies as they stared intently at Qin Yun.


    "Fiendish soldiers?" Qin Yun stood up. "We Daoists have Cast Beans for Soldiers but this is the first time I''m seeing fiendish soldiers."


    "That''s because you are lacking in knowledge." The black-robed elder held the gonfalon and said with a sneer, "Each of the fiendish soldiers I rear match the power of a Connate Golden Core. With eighty of them joining forces, even a typical first Firmament Essence Soul is not my match. Punk, if you''re smart, you''ll hand over one transcendent-grade Dharma treasure and I''ll let you off. If not, I''ll have to attack."


    "Each one matches the strength of a Connate Golden Core?" Qin Yun was secretly surprised as he looked at the fiendish shadows.


    The Effulgent Great World had numerous cultivators, with an extremely large number of sects. There were all kinds of techniques available. The fiendish techniques were also far greater in number than in Qin Yun''s homeworld.


    "That''s pretty impressive. It''s no wonder you dare to try and rob me," said Qin Yun.


    Connate Golden Core mortals were relatively safe in the Ancient Augury World.


    Over the past three months, Qin Yun had also seen numerous Essence Souls fighting each other. They were rather tragic but because of the Heavenly Dao''s limitations, Essence Souls would not attack Connate Golden Cores unless absolutely necessary!


    And mortals who came to the Ancient Augury World were typically rather powerful Connate Golden Cores.


    If they were not especially confident, they would not dare attempt to rob others.


    This was because they might end up having everything taken from them if their heist failed!


    The formation that the black-robed elder''s eighty fiend soldiers entered was indeed terrifying. It was precisely because Qin Yun was alone that he dared take action.


    "Cut the crap. Quick, hand over a Dharma treasure. Don''t force my hand." The black-robed elder urged. All he did was threaten, afraid that Qin Yun would use his Transference Token and render his efforts naught.


    ¡­


    And a few hundred kilometers away.


    Two men and a woman were flying together. A white-dressed woman''s eyes flashed with golden light as she looked around.


    "Oh?" The woman looked in Qin Yun''s direction. "Senior Brother Lu, let''s head there."


    "What''s over there?" asked the two young men beside her.


    "Among the Scenic Jade Palace cultivators that entered, weren''t there five outsiders? The one named Qin Yun is being threatened by a fiendish cultivator. Let''s rush there or it might be too late." The white-dressed woman urged as she transformed into a stream of light and flew over rapidly.


    Her fellow disciples immediately followed.


    "Senior Sister, why bother with that outsider? Just let him die," said a slightly handsome youth.


    "He came in with us after all. That means he also represents the Scenic Jade Palace." The white-dressed woman said a little irritated.


    Beside her, a man in azure-colored robes said with a smile, "Yan''er is right. His performance affects our Scenic Jade Palace''s reputation after all. Besides, he has been threatened by a fiendish cultivator. We stand on the opposing side of the fiendish way, so while it would have been fine if we didn''t see it, we have seen it, so we have to deal with it."


    "Since a couple like the two of you are echoing each other''s words, it''s up to you." The handsome youth smirked.


    "What do you mean couple!?" The white-dressed woman blushed immediately and even stole a glance at the man in azure-colored robes beside her. He smiled back at her, turning her face even redder, all the way to her ears.


    Whoosh.


    The three traveled extremely quickly and soon arrived where Qin Yun was.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked over when he sensed the arrival of the trio.


    Whoosh.


    The three streams of light streaked across the sky and appeared on the side. The two men and one woman looked rather young.


    Qin Yun immediately recognized them as three of the Scenic Jade Palace disciples but they were only first Firmament Essence Souls.


    "Don''t worry. With us here, he can''t do anything to you," said the man with a smile.


    "If not for Senior Sister, I wouldn''t even be bothered to rescue you." The handsome youth grumbled.


    However, the white-dressed woman bellowed coldly, "Fiendish cultivator, scram quickly or don''t blame us for being ruthless."


    "Scram." The handsome youth shouted as well.


    "Three first Firmament Essence Souls?" The black-robed elder''s eyes flashed with a nether glow. He said in a deep voice, "This is a battle between mortals but you Essence Souls want to partake in it?"


    "We will not kill you, but can''t we teach you a lesson?" The handsome youth scoffed. With a wave of his hand, a black shadow flew out from his sleeves, instantly manifesting as a black snake several kilometers long. It had a terrifying might and, although the three of them were first Firmament Essence Souls, they were definitely among the best if they were chosen represent the Scenic Jade Palace.


    The black-robed elder''s expression twitched when he saw this. "Very well."


    He immediately retreated and waved the gonfalon in his hand, calling the eighty fiendish shadows back into it. As they flew back, he glared at Qin Yun. "Punk, consider yourself lucky." With that said, he escaped in the form of a black mist.


    "Alright, he''s gone," said the handsome youth. They weren''t allowed to really kill a mortal, at best they could teach him a lesson. Especially when it was a powerful Connate Golden Core mortal.


    "Be more careful. We happened to be passing by and saw you, but you might not be so lucky the next time," said the white-dressed woman to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun felt a little helpless.


    He could not say anything when they had volunteered to help him.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    Immediately, with him at the center, a terrifying might enveloped the surrounding fifteen kilometers. It also repressed the black-robed elder who was floating away as a black mist.


    The black-robed elder was alarmed. "A Dao domain? Fifteen kilometers?"


    "We haven''t finished talking. Don''t be in such a rush to leave." Qin Yun''s voice sounded beside the black-robed elder''s ear.


    "Fifteen kilometers?" The three Scenic Jade Palace disciples that came to help were first Firmament Essence Souls. All of them were stunned. It was relatively easy to condense an Essence Soul in the Effulgent Great World but a fifteen-kilometer Dao domain was the feat of a second Firmament Essence Soul realm!

 387 Grand Supreme Lineage?

    Chapter 387: Grand Supreme Lineage?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "We aren''t done with our chat. Don''t be in such a rush to leave."


    When the black-robed elder heard that, he fled even faster.


    Sou!


    The black mist flew away in panic.


    "You truly do not know when to give up." Qin Yun flicked his sleeve as a flying sword that resembled a green leaf streaked across the sky. It flashed, and left a thin trajectory across the sky before rapidly catching up to the fleeing black mist.


    "Those three Essence Souls wouldn''t dare to kill me but that mortal is not restrained by the Heavenly Dao," The black-robed elder cursed silently while he fled. "Darn it, his Dao domain is already fifteen kilometers, more than sufficient for him to reach the second Firmament Essence Soul realm. Yet, he still stays at the Connate Golden Core realm? For me to encounter a Connate Golden Core of such strength and patience, this luck of mine¡­"


    "Oh no!"


    The elder was also keeping an eye what was happening behind him. His expression changed when he saw the Green Leaf Flying Sword closing in on him. "His flying sword Dharma treasure is this fast, even faster than my flying speed?"


    "What a fast flying sword."


    "This speed¡­"


    The three Essence Souls from the Scenic Jade Palace were astounded when they saw the scene playing out before their very eyes.


    "Normal cultivators will express the charms of a Dharma treasure when they control one. This flying sword appears to be even more agile and ingenious under this Qin Yun''s control. It even flies this fast!" The man thought to himself. "Could he be of the sword immortal lineage?"


    Those that used flying swords¡­ were not necessarily sword immortals.


    But swords under the control of sword immortals were at their most agile!


    Only under the control of a sword immortal would a flying sword have the qualification to be described as ''a single sword destroying all Dharma.''


    "So what if your Dao domain is powerful? Do you think you can take me down with a mere flying sword?" The elder''s angry voice boomed. Black mist gathered around his body as he shook the gonfalon in his hand. Immediately, eighty fiends flew out of it as they were naturally formed by an array formation. As soon as they appeared, they surged towards the incoming Green Leaf Flying Sword.


    "Roar¡ª¡ª!"


    The eighty fiends attacked in a swarm as they opened their mouths wide, readying to intercept the sword.


    "Whoosh¡ª" The fiends spewed out strong winds that formed blade winds under the array formation. Thousand of blade winds seemed to surge at the Green Leaf Flying Sword like a rapturous tidal wave.


    "Swoosh!"


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword gently vibrated and tore through the blade winds like a fish in water. Pew! Pew! Pew! It easily penetrated the layers of blade winds and, followed by a flash, pierced through the eighty fiend shadows.


    The fiend shadows completely dissipated but immediately gathered together once again. However, they were clearly lost some of their size.


    "Whoosh." The Green Leaf Flying Sword carved out a curved trajectory and circled to a spot in front of the black-robed elder. Stopping in midair, it had its tip pointed at him, causing him to freeze in fear.


    The eight fiends that had formed an array formation had failed to put up a resistance, so naturally, he did not dare to test the sword with his own body.


    "Return all of you." The black-robed elder looked at the thinned fiend shadows with a pained heart. With a flick of the gonfalon, the fiend shadows all flew back into it.


    "A flying sword is able to crack my fiend weapon. To be able to control a flying sword with such prowess, are you a legendary sword immortal?" The black-robed elder turned to look at the distant Qin Yun with gonfalon in hand. Black mist emanated from his body as he constantly watched the Green Leaf Flying Sword. He was prepared to activate the Transference Token to leave at any time.


    "Sword immortal?" Qin Yun was slightly taken aback but he did explain a thing.


    According to what he knew, the Effulgent Great World had so many cultivation sects that the ''sword immortal'' lineage which could only cultivate to a maximum of the Connate Golden Core lacked any extensive ownership of lands. After all, a sect without even an Essence Soul realm wasn''t able to establish itself in the Effulgent Great World!


    "Hand over two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures and I''ll let you off," said Qin Yun. "If not, I can only attack. You should know by now that those fiend weapons of yours won''t be able to stop me."


    "Two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures?" The elder said with an angry glare, "I only tried to extort one from you. Now, you are extorting two from me?"


    "From the way you tried to rob me, it''s probably not the first or second time you are doing such a deed," said Qin Yun. "It should not be an unreasonable request to demand two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures from you."


    "Hmph!"


    The elder grunted angrily, "That''s too much. One transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. Take that and spare me or I''d rather activate my Transference Token! I''ve spent enough time in the Ancient Augury World after all!"


    "Two," said Qin Yun indifferently.


    "One! You will get nothing if I leave," said the elder hoarsely.


    "Then, go ahead and leave the Ancient Augury World," scoffed Qin Yun.


    The elder was slightly taken aback. He obviously did not wish to leave the Ancient Augury World so easily. He had only been there for a year. There were still two more years to go! Even if he searched slowly over the next two years, it would not be difficult for him to amass one transcendent-grade Dharma treasure even if his luck was bad. If he had good luck, he might even reap a huge harvest!


    "One and a half! That is my limit," said the elder in a deep voice. "Even if I stayed here for a while longer, it might not be possible for me to obtain another two transcendent-grade Dharma treasures."


    Qin Yun looked straight into his eyes and nodded slightly. "Fine, we shall each take one step back. One and a half transcendent-grade Dharma treasures."


    ¡­


    After coming to an agreement, the elder handed over a pile of fragmentary treasures. They were barely worth one and a half transcendent-grade Dharma treasures.


    Qin Yun spared him in exchange.


    "Right. Since he has handed over the treasures obediently, you should keep your promise." The handsome youth nodded when he saw that. "By going back on your word, you would sully our Scenic Jade Palace''s reputation. Even I would step in at that point."


    "Since I entered as a representative of the Scenic Jade Palace, I naturally won''t tarnish the Scenic Jade Palace''s reputation," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "That flying sword is so powerful in your hands." The man said out of curiosity. "Greetings Brother Qin Yun, I''m Lu Fan. Might I ask if you cultivate in the sword immortal lineage?"


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment before nodding and saying with a smile, "Yes, I cultivate in the sword immortal lineage."


    It did not matter if he revealed it at this point.


    "Sword immortal lineage?" exclaimed the white-dressed woman. "How is it possible¡­ Our Effulgent Great World¡­ should not have a sect with such a powerful sword immortal lineage."


    "There is no sword immortal lineage among the big sects I know of!" The handsome youth nodded.


    "No, it''s actually quite common to see one cultivate a sword immortal lineage Dharmic formulation to the Connate Golden Core realm. Even our Scenic Jade Palace has a few such manuals in its collection," said the man.


    "Just to cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm? That''s a mortal-level Dharmic formulation, isn''t that so? It''s not considered an immortal cultivation Dharmic formulation," said the white-dressed woman without much concern.


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    What she said did sound very reasonable.


    The limit was the Connate Golden Core! Indeed, it was only a mortal-level maximum. He himself was also only a mortal.


    The handsome youth could not help but comment, "I have never heard of anyone in our Scenic Jade Palace cultivate in such Dharmic formulations. Our Scenic Jade Palace, do we actually collect such manuals?"


    "Yes, I once saw them back when I read through many manuals. They were in the corners where no one goes to. After all, our Scenic Jade Palace has so many cultivation Dharmic formulations. People naturally avoid the sword immortal Dharmic formulation because it''s unable to condense an Essence Soul. In immortal cultivation, the goal is to gain eternal life after all." The man smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "For Brother Qin to be able to join us on this trial, he must have quite an extraordinary background. Since he cultivated in the sword immortal lineage, he naturally would not cultivate to be a sword immortal that is limited to the Connate Golden Core realm."


    "Am I right?" The man smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, you must be from from the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage, isn''t that so?"


    "Direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    The man was filled with confidence initially, but when he saw Qin Yun''s shocked expression, he could not help but ask, "Aren''t you aware of it yourself?"


    "Aware of what?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Although the Three Realms are endless in space, the sword cultivation lineage was created by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor," explained the man. "A true sword immortal is one that is from the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage. In contrast, the relatively common sword immortal Dharmic formulations that can only reach the Connate Golden Core realm are those created by mighty figures."


    "Mighty figures are not sword immortals themselves. Therefore, they can only figure the formulations out up to the mortal level," said the man. "They are too common and lack potential for the future. With your talent, I doubt you would cultivate in such a Dharmic formulation, right?"


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    Created by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor of the Three Pure Ones? Direct sword cultivation line?


    It was no wonder there were Dharma treasures such as the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash that only sword immortals could use.


    "Brother Lu, to be honest," said Qin Yun frankly. "I do cultivate in one of the mortal-level sword immortal Dharmic formulations that you mentioned. Therefore, I''m also just a mortal sword immortal!"

 388 Ism from the Numinous Treasure Lineage?

    Chapter 388: I''m from the Numinous Treasure Lineage?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The handsome youth and the white-dressed woman were stupefied.


    "He really cultivates a mortal Dharmic formulation?" thought the white-dressed woman, finding it impossible to believe.


    "Brother Qin Yun, sorry for any disrespect I might have implied by saying those words. Please do not take it to heart." Lu Fan felt a little embarrassed and immediately apologized. He had just belittled the mortal sword immortal Dharmic formulations.


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "This is definitely not your fault. Back when I was starting out, I was simply delighted to receive a Dharmic formulation for cultivation. How could I know anything about condensing an Essence Soul or overcoming the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal? And it is because I obtained that Dharmic formulation that I was able to settle a vendetta early in my life. To be honest, I''m very happy to have received that opportunity which allowed me to embark on the cultivation path."


    "Yes, yes." Lu Fan nodded and said, "Although the conversion of the sword immortal lineage is impossible, with your talent, I believe you''ll be able to reincarnate and have a fresh start if an expert senior were to help you."


    Qin Yun did not respond to that and instead asked, "Brother Lu, can you tell me in detail about the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage?"


    "Yes, Senior Brother. Please tell us," said the white-dressed woman immediately.


    "We have never heard of it before either," added the handsome youth.


    "Haha¡­"


    Lu Fan laughed and said, "This is something I happened to learn about when I chatted with a Skyimmortal I am acquainted with. I believe all of you know about the Three Pure Ones of Daoism."


    Everyone nodded. Qin Yun had also long heard of them.


    "Grand Supreme, Primordial Beginning, Numinous Treasure. These three Dao Ancestors were existences that stood at the pinnacle of endless space-time," said Lu Fan. "The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure is well-known for imparting knowledge to all people without discrimination. He has the largest number of personal disciples. As for the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, he is stringent when it comes to taking in disciples. But he is extremely dedicated in teaching them. Therefore, all of his personal disciples become Golden Immortal-level mighty figures. Our Scenic Jade Palace is from the Primordial Beginning lineage."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor painstakingly taught his disciples.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was more whimsical when teaching disciples. He showed no discrimination, resulting in the huge number of disciples.


    "The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor engages in tranquil inaction," continued Lu Fan. "He has the fewest number of disciples! Becoming his personal disciple is extremely difficult. And the sword immortal lineage is the most famous one Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor teaches. There are two from this lineage that have cultivated to become a Golden Immortal. In the massive and endless Three Realms, these two Golden Immortals have engaged in warring expeditions everywhere. The reason why the Grand Supreme lineage possesses such shocking power is mostly thanks to these two Golden Immortal mighty figures. The saying ''destroying all Dharma with a single sword'' came from them. It''s said that they have even killed several beings at the Patriarch Fiend level."


    Qin Yun was sent reeling when he heard that.


    The magnitude of their killing spree was intense.


    "I heard the sword immortal lineage is very strict when it comes to taking in disciples," said Lu Fan. "These two Golden Immortals travel the Three Realms and will only recruit the most extremely talented seedlings. Brother Qin Yun, I even thought that you were from the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage. After all, this lineage is only a legend in all of the Three Realms. There aren''t any who have actually seen a sword cultivator from the direct lineage."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Brother Qin Yun, since you cultivate in a mortal-level sword immortal Dharmic formulation, you likely haven''t have joined sects that stem from the lineages of Primordial Beginning or Numinous Treasure, right?" asked Lu Fan. "Then, there is still hope of you coming under the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage."


    "I understand. Thank you, Brother Lu Fan," said Qin Yun.


    "I hope I helped," replied Lu Fan with a smile.


    "As long as your realm gets higher and higher, I believe you will attract the notice of the Grand Supreme sword cultivation lineage sometime in the future," said the white-dressed woman.


    "Brother Qin Yun, the more famous you become, the more hope there will be," said the handsome youth. He had belittled the weak mortal originally, but after Qin Yun displayed his strength, he began treating him seriously. When he learned that Qin Yun was only a mortal sword immortal, he even felt some pity. His attitude towards him turned a lot more mellow as well.


    He naturally felt pity for a person who had no chance of condensing an Essence Soul.


    They also knew that the chances of being recruited under the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage were low. Therefore, Qin Yun was likely to return to dust once his five hundred years were up.


    "We still need to continue exploring the Ancient Augury World. We shall bid you farewell for now." Lu Fan and his two fellow disciples bade farewell and quickly flew off.


    Qin Yun stood by a lake.


    "The direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage?"


    "The three Daoist lineages are Grand Supreme, Primordial Beginning, and Numinous Treasure," thought Qin Yun. "Daoism''s Three Pure Ones stem from the same family. It''s impossible that they would snatch disciples from each other. My homeworld, the Great Chang world, had Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor preach the Dao on Numinous Treasure Mountain in ancient times. All the Daoist cultivators in the Great Chang world no doubt belong to the Numinous Treasure lineage. The Grand Supreme lineage would never snatch disciples from another lineage. No matter how powerful I become, they will never take me in as a disciple."


    "Ancestral Master Zhang once told me that, for the sword immortal lineage to condense an Essence Soul, there are only two ways. One is to create it myself and the other is to have a Dao Ancestor impart the teachings to me."


    "Later on, he said that it was practically impossible for the Dao Ancestor to impart the teachings. Creating it independently is the only way."


    "That''s true."


    "If Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor is willing, all he needs to do is ask. I believe Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor would take Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s opinion into account, allowing me to become a member of the Grand Supreme sword cultivation lineage." Qin Yun shook his head. "But this is only theoretically possible! Why would the high and mighty Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor seek the help of another Dao Ancestor¡­ for a mere mortal like me?"


    "Furthermore, how can a Dao Ancestor so easily ask for help?"


    "That''s why it''s impossible for the Dao Ancestor to impart the teachings." Qin Yun understood this point. "Therefore creating it independently really is the only way."


    "Aren''t Dharmic formulations created by generations of people?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Many powerful Dharmic formulations were created by later generations."


    "For instance, Ancestral Master Zhang perfected the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma using the foundations of his predecessors. Furthermore, he created a Skyimmortal-level Dharmic formulation for the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma," thought Qin Yun. "Although the talisman amulet lineage has many of the same kind, he was even able to create one at the Skyimmortal level, an extremely powerful one at that¡­ It is even more powerful than the Lightning Dharma that the Dao Ancestor imparted, making it the best Lightning Dharma in the Great Chang world."


    "I, Qin Yun, believe that I can create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage," thought Qin Yun. "I''ll first condense an Essence Soul to gain a massive increase in lifespan. Once my realm goes higher, I''ll create my own Skyimmortal-level Dharmic formulation."


    "If the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor can create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation, I, Qin Yun, can do so as well! Perhaps I might even create a better one. After all, many of the powerful Dharmic formulations in the Three Realms were created by future generations." Qin Yun was filled with fighting spirit.


    It was very common for Dharmic formulations of the later generations to surpass those of the earlier generations!


    After all, to the Dao Ancestor, he had only casually created those Dharmic formulations. Lightning Darma, alchemy, talisman amulets, sword cultivation¡­ many of them were simply created on a whim. They were not the true thing the Dao Ancestor focused on. But disciples of later generations would focus their entire lives on one path. They would create a more perfect and excellent Dharmic formulation that what the Dao Ancestor imparted in what they were best at. It was not that surprising.


    It was even possible that the three Dao Ancestors would be happy to see this happen.


    For example, Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang had succeeded in doing it. It delighted Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure and he was made his personal disciple.


    ******


    After learning about the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage, Qin Yun gave up the thought of learning it from anywhere else. He placed all his thoughts on creating one independently.


    In fact, a Dharma treasure like the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash that only sword immortals could use, especially one so powerful at that, had made Qin Yun speculate a lot. He speculated that there were more powerful sword immortals out there! Now, everything was revealed. There were indeed more powerful sword immortals. However, they were from the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor lineage. And their recruitment of disciples was extremely stringent. He could forget about it considering how he was from the Numinous Treasure lineage.


    "I still have a long life ahead."


    "I''ll first rescue my wife and attain strength at the Skyimmortal realm. Once my realm undergoes a qualitative change, I can slowly figure out an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage," thought Qin Yun.


    Cultivation was very important but saving Yi Xiao was even more important.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun rode a cloud again. He went back to seeking treasures while flying around the Ancient Augury World.


    ¡­


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun used his Eye of Lightning to look around as per usual.


    When he looked east, he saw something alarming.


    Four hundred kilometers away in the east, there was treasure aura that surged straight into the clouds! The treasure light was completely concealed but the treasure aura was immensely rich. Qin Yun was stunned. "This is the greatest treasure trove I''ve seen since I came to the Ancient Augury World."


    He took another look.


    "Oh? There are many people there." Qin Yun looked on from afar. There were already dozens of cultivators gathered there, mostly at the Essence Soul realm.


    "I''ll go take a look." Qin Yun had an idea of the situation after some slight observation. He flew there straight away. As a mortal, he naturally had nothing to fear.

 389 Lu Fan and Qin Yun

    Chapter 389: Lu Fan and Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    He traversed the four hundred kilometers in a blink of an eye.


    The mountain range stretched out endlessly and the clouds swirled around the area. There was a group of Essence Souls that were scattered across the region.


    Qin Yun instantly noticed that the Essence Souls were grouped into three factions. He could tell from their auras that one of the Essence Soul groups was suffusing fiendish auras. They were clearly fiendcelestials! And in another corner were Daoist cultivators. The final group were dragon experts. All three parties occupied a spot and remained wary of each other.


    "This treasure aura surges straight to the clouds. Perhaps a superior-grade Numinous treasure is in there." Qin Yun felt a little excited. "If I''m lucky, I might be able to gather all the Numinous treasures needed to save Xiaoxiao."


    The price of seeking Puqu Dragonlord''s help was costly. Finding a superior-grade Numinous treasure was a huge burden on Qin Yun.


    However, this was the only way for him to rescue his wife.


    The other Golden Immortal or Buddha level figures probably would not even be bothered with him. After all, mighty figures at that level were immune to the rulings of the Heavenly Courts. Such mighty figures were esteemed guests of the Jade Emperor and Queen Mother. Qin Yun was already very happy that an Ancestral Dragon existence like Puqu Dragonlord was agreeable to helping him out.


    "These Essence Souls are split into three sides. Daoists, fiendcelestials, and the dragons." Qin Yun observed. "There are nine fiendcelestials, two at the third Firmament, three at the second Firmament, and four at the first Firmament."


    "There are also seven mortals¡­"


    Qin Yun glanced a spot not far from him. The seven mortal Connate Golden Cores were looking on from a distance.


    "I''ll first land here to take a look." Qin Yun had quite a daredevil attitude.


    "Sou!"


    Locking onto the position of the treasure aura, Qin Yun suddenly plunged downwards in a bid to enter the mountains that were immersed in clouds.


    At that moment¡ª


    "Oh?"


    A gray-robed fiendcelestial with two curled horns and azure-scaled skin nearest to him glared coldly at Qin Yun, who was about to enter the mountains. "A mere mortal dares to lay sights on this treasure trove?"


    He took a step and instantly traversed more than a thousand feet.


    "Scram!" He bellowed furiously with his voice reverberating like rumbling thunder in the sky. With a wave of his hand, a gigantic palm phantom condensed in midair and swept towards the flying Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun struck out gently when he saw that, conjuring Dharmic powers to protect himself.


    Bam!


    The gigantic palm swept across Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun immediately flew backward towards the mountains in the periphery.


    "Hmph, if not for the karmic calamities, such mortal ants should have long been squashed to death." The gray-robed fiendcelestial shot Qin Yun a cold glance. Following that, he turned and flew back to his original position and continued tending to the region he was responsible for.


    woosh.


    Qin Yun landed on the crown of a towering tree as he looked into the distance with a frown.


    "From the looks of it, they are putting this place on total lockdown! They are completely preventing outsiders from entering. If I wish to enter, I will need to partake in a huge battle." Qin Yun carefully observed the three parties. People from all three parties were rather scattered, clearly intending to watch over as wide a region as possible.


    "Fellow Daoist, you sure are brave. You charged straight in the moment you arrived." From the seven Connate Godfiends who were waiting by the periphery, a thin elder flew over on a cloud. He said with a smile, "Furthermore, you chose to head into a region guarded by the fiendcelestials."


    "I was only giving it a try. Besides, so what if they are fiendcelestials? No matter how ferocious they are, they would not kill mortals like us, unless they have gone insane," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Yes, although we mortals are weak, we are protected by the Heavenly Dao." The elder nodded. "Greetings fellow Daoist, I''m Lu You."


    "Greetings Daoist Lu You, I''m Qin Yun." He returned the greeting. But he immediately followed up with a question out of curiosity. "Daoist Lu, what is happening here? Why are experts from three parties watching over it?"


    The elder nodded and said with a smile, "They found a huge treasure trove of course! Such treasures were probably left behind from the Ancient Augury World''s wars hundreds of thousands of years ago. As it''s too dangerous to go in blindly, the experts from the three sides are being very careful¡­ They even captured a few Essence Souls from before and made the weaker Essence Souls probe the area first. They then followed behind them."


    "Capturing Essence Souls to scout the area first?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Yes, the lucky ones immediately triggered their Transference Token and escaped. Although it means their end of the trial, they can at least remain alive and keep the treasures they carry," said the elder with a sigh. "As for the unlucky ones, they weren''t even able to trigger their Transference Tokens. They were immediately restrained and robbed of their treasures, including the Transference Tokens. They were then forced to scout the area first."


    Qin Yun sighed emotively to himself.


    He had heard such stories before coming to the Ancient Augury World. Some would be robbed and killed before they could react in time. Just having a Transference Token was useless! As for those that were captured alive, they would be used to scout the most dangerous areas.


    "However, they will only capture Essence Souls. They would not dare to force us mortals into going on such suicide missions," said the elder with a smile. "We are all at the Connate Golden Core. Killing any one of us results in karma ten times greater than mortals who do not cultivate! They are all afraid of the tribulations. Forcing us to our deaths will not bode well for them."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    That was the advantage of being mortal but mortals also had many weaknesses!


    They had short lifespans and were lacking in strength! Even Qin Yun''s greatest weakness was his Dharmic powers. As a figure who had cultivated a purplish-gold Golden Core and had an extremely high Dao realm, if he were to cultivate to the third Firmament Essence Soul, the purity of his Essence Soul Dharmic powers¡­ would probably approach that of a Skyimmortal. Furthermore, a sword immortal''s Intrinsic Flying Sword''s prowess was perfectly capable of holding off a Skyimmortal or Skygod.


    After all, sword immortals were known for their extremely powerful offensive measures. In addition, there was the might of the Intrinsic Flying Sword! Typically, they could fight someone a level higher than them.


    However, despite Qin Yun''s extremely high Dao realm, his strength was only considered great among peaked third Firmament Essence Souls. This was how much his Dharmic powers were holding him back!


    This was compared with third Firmament Essence Souls. If he was compared with Skyimmortals, the gap that stemmed from the difference in Dharmic powers would only increase. Skyimmortals had nine Firmaments¡­ The gap in Dharmic powers would only become harder to bridge.


    "Boom!" A loud blast suddenly happened amid the mountains.


    A figure shot upwards.


    Qin Yun turned to take a look and, with a glance, he recognized the figure¡­ It was none other than Lu Fan, one of the three Scenic Jade Palace''s Essence Souls he had encountered not long ago. Lu Fan was also the strongest among the three. And now, his aura was clearly a lot stronger. He had already entered the second Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    "Brother Lu Fan?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "He sure is a man of emotion." The elder shook his head as he sighed. "His woman was one of the weak Essence Souls that were captured alive! They forced her to scout the area but that kid has quite some tricks up his sleeves. Not only did he evade their pursuit, he even charged into the dangerous depths in a bid to save his woman."


    "His woman?" Qin Yun thought to himself. "Is it that junior sister he was with previously?"


    ¡­


    Lu Fan was already on the brink of insanity.


    The three of them had suffered an ambush. Junior Sister Yan''er had been captured alive and his junior brother had narrowly escaped by triggering his Transference Token. As he was the strongest, he did not trigger the Transference Token immediately when ambushed. He even managed to use his life preservation item to escape despite being pursued by peak third Firmament fiendcelestials. His realm was already enough for him to enter the second Firmament Essence Soul. He had only wanted to ensure a robust foundation while cultivating his Dharmic powers to the perfect ''First Firmament Mystic Ice'' which is why he chose to remain at the first Firmament all this while. After he escaped, he ignored all of that and made a hasty breakthrough to the second Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    Following that, he immediately infiltrated the area. As he chased up to them, he saw his junior sister and others being forced into the land of peril. He had also risked his life to follow them in.


    "He sure is a slippery one! If you have the guts, keep coming. You might be able to escape once or twice but I do not believe you can do so ten times! You will be dead if you fail to escape even once," bellowed a fiendcelestial angrily as he charged out from the clouds'' deep depths.


    Sou!


    Yet, Lu Fan continued to dodge. He drew out a trajectory as he entered the land of peril once again through another cave. His eyes were filled with frenzy. "Yan''er, I will definitely save you."


    "Don''t bother with him. Let''s continue probing," shouted another fiendcelestial.


    Soon, the two fiendcelestials plunged right back into the clouds.


    Lu Fan entered the cave and rapidly tore through it.


    "Brother Lu." His transmission treasure was being connected to someone.


    "Oh?" Lu Fan flipped his hand and held the transmission treasure. As he proceeded forward, he diverted some attention to send a voice transmission. "Brother Qin Yun, what''s the matter?"


    "I''m also in the vicinity of the mountains. I just saw you being pursued," said Qin Yun through the voice transmission.


    "You saw that? The three of us were sneak attacked. Junior Brother managed to barely escape using his Transference Token but Junior Sister Yan''er was captured alive." Lu Fan was extremely depressed.


    "Is no one from the Scenic Jade Palace coming to save her?" asked Qin Yun. "What about Senior Sister Redjade?"


    "I have asked for help several times! But Senior Sister Redjade is currently stuck in another land of peril. She will not be able to come anytime soon," replied Lu Fan. "Senior Sister Redjade once defeated a Skyfiend. She is probably one of the best third Firmament Essence Souls in the Ancient Augury World. If she were here, would these fiendcelestials even mean much? She alone would be able to wipe them all out."


    Qin Yun was enlightened. "How strong are the two third Firmament fiendcelestials outside?"


    "They are rather strong but they aren''t at the Skyfiend level," replied Lu Fan.


    Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief.


    That was good.


    He was afraid that he would encounter a third Firmament fiendcelestial that had the ability to match a Skyfiend in strength.


    But in fact, matching a Skyfiend was extremely difficult!


    Firstly, the difference in realm was extremely huge! Skyfiends had to survive the Heavenly Tribulation, and the Effulgent Great World''s Heavenly Tribulation was especially exacting. One had to have a Dao domain of fifty kilometers to endure the Heavenly Tribulation.


    Secondly, the difference in Dharmic powers and Dharma treasures was huge.


    The combined differences made it difficult to overcome.


    For instance, Immortal Zhenru, who had ranked third on the treasure rankings for hundreds of thousands of years in the Ancient Augury World had once slain a Skyfiend at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. But he was one of the most illustrious figures of the Great World they were in for hundreds of thousands of years. He had now become Temple Lord of the Nine Truths Temple. Trial candidates in the Ancient Augury World typically were no match for Skyimmortals or Skyfiends even if they were peak third Firmament Essence Souls. Those that could match Skyimmortals or Skyfiends were mostly disciples from top sects that only appeared very rarely.


    "Brother Lu, I''ll be infiltrating the area in a while. If I have the chance, I will try to save her," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    Lu Fan, who was proceeding carefully, was alarmed.


    "Brother Qin, I appreciate your kind intentions. I, Lu Fan, am very grateful but it''s not worth it to throw away your life for our sakes," replied Lu Fan immediately. Although he tried his best to save his junior sister, he believed that a mortal Connate Godfiend would only be sending himself to his death upon entry¡­ even if his Dao domain had reached fifteen kilometers. "Besides, there are nine fiendcelestials outside. There''s no way you can charge in. Do not commit such a folly or I would feel guilty about it."


    "Sure, I understand." Qin Yun did not elaborate further.


    ¡­


    While still in the peripheral regions, Qin Yun severed the transmission and put away his transmission token.

 390 Flying Sword Unleashed!

    Chapter 390: Flying Sword Unleashed!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun smiled at the thin elder and said, "Daoist Lu, I shall bid you farewell for now."


    "You are leaving already? Aren''t you going to wait a little longer? The three parties have not begun the fight. Perhaps something major might happen and we can benefit from any opportunities they miss out on?" said the elder immediately. Although he had seen Qin Yun take out his transmission token, he had no idea what Qin Yun''s conversation was about since the messages were transmitted with Dharmic powers.


    "There''s no need." Qin Yun chuckled.


    Benefit from missed opportunities? How much could those be worth? Perhaps remnant Dharma treasures from the ancient battlefield would satisfy ordinary mortal Connate Golden Cores.


    However, the treasures he eyed were the most valuable ones.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light as he flew towards the mountains.


    "Daoist Qin, why are you heading in that direction? Didn''t you say that you are leaving?" The elder watched Qin Yun fly towards the mountains, mouth agape and eyes wide.


    ¡­


    The gray-robed fiendcelestial who was closest to Qin Yun frowned as he watched him fly over. "Why is he here again? Does he think I won''t kill him just because he is mortal?"


    Pangs of fury made his eyes suffuse a little redness.


    As a fiendcelestial, he was bloodthirsty to begin with. But now, he had no choice but to put up with Qin Yun''s antics. It displeased him.


    "Mortal punk, get lost! Don''t provoke me any further. I will make you wish you were dead!" bellowed the fiendcelestial. However, he was only shooting off his mouth. The tormenting of mortals also resulted in harsh karmic punishments. It was just only slightly smaller than the killing of mortals.


    As he roared, the fiendcelestial waved his palm again as he condensed a gigantic palm phantom that struck at Qin Yun.


    When Qin Yun flew over, his eyes swept past the two third Firmament fiendcelestials in the distance.


    "According to what Lu Fan said, these two third Firmament fiendcelestials do not have strength at the Skyfiend level. That''s right, how could two random third Firmament fiendcelestials I encounter match a Skyfiend? Such an unlucky coincidence wouldn''t happen." Qin Yun fixed his gaze on the gray-robed fiendcelestial who was closest to him. The fiendcelestial was clearly fuming as he condensed a gigantic palm using his Dao domain to smack him away again.


    Such might was naturally sufficient to bully normal Connate Golden Cores.


    But Qin Yun?


    "Go."


    With a beckon of his hand, a wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip.


    The flying sword looked ordinary, like the most common misty rain. Its might also appeared very typical.


    Pew!


    However, it easily tore through the gigantic palm phantom that was condensed through a Dao domain.


    After tearing through the palm phantom, it appeared in front of the gray-robed fiendcelestial in a flash.


    "A mortal punk actually has the strength to match a first Firmament Essence Soul?" The gray-robed fiendcelestial was slightly alarmed but thought nothing much of it. As a second Firmament fiendcelestial, an elite that had been selected for the expedition by his sect, he naturally had strength at the peak second Firmament Fiendcelestial realm! He instantly brandished his claws, sending what looked like a sharp claw covered in azure-colored scales towards the misty-rainlike flying sword.


    But at the instant the flying sword struck the claw, a cold glint flashed in the distant Qin Yun''s eyes.


    "Boom¡ª"


    A terrifying might erupted!


    With an ear-splitting explosion, the misty rainlike flying sword tore through the void, shattering the gray-robed fiendcelestial''s claw, as well as plunging right into his chest. The terrifying might even blasted the fiendcelestial''s body apart, leaving behind a hideous void rift in midair.


    "What happened?" The gray-robed fiendcelestial could only feel an instinctive disbelief. Before he could have any other thought, his heart which was core to his existence shattered as his consciousness faded away.


    It was the Dreamlike Sword''s fifth move, Traveling in Solitude!


    This strike was like a humongous ax that cleaved open the heavens and ruptured the lands. It had a solitude craziness to it that laid waste to anything in its path.


    "Oh?" This caught the notice of the two third Firmament fiendcelestials a distance away. One of them was draped in red robes meditating among the clouds. Another was sitting crossed legged caressing the saber in his hand. At that moment, they could not help but turn their heads over when they sensed the terrifying commotion.


    They instantly noticed their fiendcelestial ally being blasted apart, as well as the void rift that lingered from the trajectory of the terrifying sword flash.


    "Be careful!"


    "Do not clash with it!"


    The two third Firmament fiendcelestials were alarmed as they bellowed angrily with a voice transmission. Simultaneously, they transformed into two streams of light to intercept the terrifying flying sword.


    Their subordinate fiendcelestials were guarding different areas.


    "What is this!?"


    "What happened?"


    Some of the fiendcelestials had not noticed the clash between Qin Yun and the gray-robed fiendcelestial! Their attention was brought to the matter only when the gray-robed fiendcelestial''s corpse blasted apart and they felt the aftershock of the horrifying explosion. They did not even know who had cast the flying sword strike.


    "Do not clash with it. Quickly come to me."


    "Quick." The two third Firmament fiendcelestials'' voice transmissions rang in their ears as well.


    They were no fools and naturally did not attempt to intercept the strike. All of them immediately gathered towards the third Firmament fiendcelestials.


    Whoosh.


    The flying sword that exuded a terrifying might in midair suddenly flashed and tunneled into the void, disappearing from sight.


    "What?" The saber-wielding third Firmament fiendcelestial that had charged closer sensed something as his expression changed. He turned to look in a particular direction.


    "Swoosh!"


    The flying sword appeared once again out of the void several kilometers away. It stabbed another second Firmament fiendcelestial in the chest. An expression of pure disbelief was on his face as a huge hole blasted through his chest, his heart already pulverized.


    After penetrating the chest, the flying sword tunneled into the void and vanished again.


    "No."


    "Flee."


    The remaining fiendcelestials were appalled. Many of them began to activate their Transference Tokens.


    "Hum." "Hum." "Hum." Spatial fluctuations enveloped them and forcibly tore open the void to transport them out.


    Out of the nine fiendcelestials, two were dead and three had escaped.


    There were two first Firmament fiendcelestials hiding behind the third Firmament fiendcelestial. They were still reeling in fear as they heaved a sigh of relief that they survived.


    "Retrieve." With the Two World Picture in hand, Qin Yun put away the treasures the gray-robed fiendcelestial left behind. The Misty Rain Sword also carried the remaining treasures of the other fiendcelestial back.


    "What audacity!"


    With an angry bellow, the saber-wielding third Firmament fiendcelestial arrived in front of Qin Yun. With both hands clasping his sharp fiendish saber, he cleaved down with impressive might.


    Rip!


    The void tore apart, revealing a long black rift.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun controlled the Misty Rain Sword to block it with a thought.


    The Misty Rain Sword was ethereal and blurry as it instantly formed a gigantic barrier made of sword flashes. When the fiendish saber cleaved down with phenomenal might, the Misty Rain Sword''s screen of light was in full circulation. After a slight ripple in the barrier, it returned to normal, easily withstanding the fiendcelestial''s strike.


    "This saber-wielding fiendcelestial is much more powerful than Old Master Chu or Fiendcelestial Jiwu. His strike¡­ has a strength that matches my Dreamlike Sword''s fourth move at the very least." Qin Yun made a quick judgment.


    "Oh?" The bloodlust in the saber-wielding fiendcelestial''s eyes flared as he brandished his saber once again. "Heaven Askance Fiendish Saber, kill!"


    If his first attempt was meant to capture Qin Yun alive to avoid the karmic retributions from killing a mortal, then this strike¡­ was delivered at full force.


    The outcome of using all his strength was that he was not confident in capturing Qin Yun alive. Perhaps he would outright kill Qin Yun or force him into escaping with the use of his Transference Token.


    "Boom!"


    The fiendish saber''s might surged through the sky.


    It even weighed on Qin Yun''s willpower but Qin Yun knitted his brows to resist it.


    "Boom!!!"


    The saber flashes increased sharply in number as the Heaven Askance Fiendish Saber cleaved down at the Cyclic Sword Flash formed by the Misty Rain Sword. Yet, it failed to crack it open.


    "Wow, this strike is actually a little more powerful than my Traveling in Solitude strike." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "He lives up to being a third Firmament fiendcelestial of a top sect! However, he can''t do anything to my Cyclic Sword Flash."


    "Oh?"


    Realizing that the strike he had delivered at full strength was useless, the saber-wielding fiendcelestial came to a stop. The distant red-robed fiendcelestial approached with his two junior brothers. They were watching Qin Yun warily and seriously.


    "Where did this expert come from?"


    "How is he so powerful?"


    There were two other factions in the mountain''s vicinity. One was dragon experts while the other was Daoist cultivators. All of them were astounded by the strength Qin Yun had demonstrated.


    "This level of strength will place him at the forefront of third Firmament Essence Souls that come from our top sects."


    "A mortal is able to produce such strength?"


    Both parties were astonished as they formed many speculations.


    "From the looks of it, there isn''t three factions but four now."


    "This additional mysterious mortal expert might be a reincarnated Skyimmortal."


    Although all three parties had first and second Firmament Essence Souls in their ranks, they were only there to act as assistants, responsible for trifling matters. Those that truly had the qualifications to vie for the treasure trove were the third Firmament Essence Souls! For example, the fiendcelestials'' side had two third Firmament fiendcelestials. Although Qin Yun was alone, his identity as a mortal¡­ made him a man of mystery. No one present dared to belittle such a mysterious mortal expert.


    To be that strong as a mortal, what sort of background did he have?


    Reincarnated Skyimmortal?


    ¡­


    And in the periphery of the mountains, the seven mortal Connate Golden Cores were watching everything play out in front of their eyes in astonishment.


    "He''s also considered a mortal?"


    How could a mortal directly finish off two second Firmament fiendcelestials?


    "It''s Daoist Qin?" The thin elder, Lu You, felt a jolt through his heart. "Such a mighty figure even greeted me so cordially?"


    Lu You felt somewhat honored.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun activated the Two World Picture and stored away his spoils of war.


    By first taking advantage of their underestimation of him, his flying sword would only reveal its true strength when it arrived beside his enemy to slay them in one strike! Following that, he would use the Dreamlike Sword''s fourth move, Waning Waxing Moons, to tunnel through the void. The moment it did appear, it would be right in front of the enemy, allowing him to kill another instantly! However, he could only kill two at most using this strategy. After witnessing the capabilities of Waning Waxing Moons, the other fiendcelestials had escaped by activating Transference Tokens or hiding by the third Firmament fiendcelestials'' side.


    "Good, I killed these two. I chose the second Firmament fiendcelestials, so the harvest I reaped should be quite good. I''ll check the items when I have the time," thought Qin Yun.

 391 Going in Deep

    Chapter 391: Going in Deep


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As Qin Yun put away his spoils of war, the two third-Firmament fiendcelestials stood side by side in midair across from him. Two first-Firmament fiendcelestials were beside them, looking at Qin Yun nastily.


    "Who are you?" bellowed the red-robed fiendcelestial coldly. "Which sect do you come from? How dare you kill disciples of my Thousand Saber Fiend Sect?"


    "It''s only two fiendcelestials." Qin Yun scoffed. "Are disciples of large sects the only ones that dare slay fiends?"


    "Hmph!" The saber-wielding fiendcelestial scoffed. "You don''t even dare to state your name or sect after killing my Thousand Saber Fiend Sect''s disciples?"


    "Perhaps I can''t be bothered to tell you my name? As for my sect? I''m not affiliated with any sects." Qin Yun scanned the four fiendcelestials in front of him. "That''s enough. I have no time to engage in meaningless banter with you. I''ll be going in first. If you have the guts, feel free to follow."


    With that said, Qin Yun transformed into a stream of light and flew into one of the caves beneath him amid the mountains.


    Although the mountains were immersed in clouds, there were many caves inside them. The whole environment was like a massive, cavernous lair. Qin Yun charged into the hole that Lu Fan had previously entered through.


    "He entered." The four fiendcelestials were alarmed.


    "He charged in just like that?"


    "He did not make any trial-takers scout the area for him?"


    The red-robed fiendcelestial exchanged looks with the saber-wielding fiendcelestial. Both of them hesitated.


    Fiendcelestials were mostly selfish. They did not care if they sacrificed a billion lives for their own needs.


    "Senior Brother, we have only finished probing a small portion of this perilous land. Although one can see the treasure aura surging skyward, it remains extremely dangerous," said the saber-wielding fiendcelestial with a voice transmission. "Do we continue waiting and enter only when we are more certain?"


    "Although treasures are important, our lives are more important." The red-robed fiendcelestial quickly calmed down and nodded. He said with a voice transmission, "The cultivation path requires caution. We should enter when we are at least fifty percent confident. Hmph¡­ This perilous land is not that easily traversed. Just look, the other two factions are in no rush to enter either."


    ¡­


    The dragon and Daoist experts were also hesitating.


    "Second Uncle, we have probed the interior for quite some time. Many places have been fully explored. It''s a lot safer than it was when we first came here. Now that that mortal expert has entered, shouldn''t we follow?" asked a dragon lady immediately.


    "One must have patience." the dragon expert leading them said calmly.


    "If we delay, he might snatch all the treasures ahead of us." The dragon lady appeared somewhat anxious.


    "The treasures in such a land of peril are not that easily obtained. Besides, so what if he manages to take them away?" questioned the dragon expert calmly. "The Ancient Augury World has developed numerous lands of peril over the years. We will take action when the opportunity arises."


    The trial candidates from these top sects knew well that exploration was very dangerous. This was something they learned from generations of experience¡­


    One had to be careful!


    One had to be meticulous!


    People only had one life. They would rather capture someone weak to scout the area ahead than risk their own lives.


    ******


    Inside the cave.


    Qin Yun flew in and instantly released his Dao domain to probe the area around him. His Misty Rain Sword flew by his side, ready to attack at any moment.


    "Those third Firmament Essence Soul disciples from large sects would be perfectly satisfied obtaining an inferior-grade Numinous treasure in the Ancient Augury World. But I''m different. I need to get a superior-grade Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun. "Furthermore, a year in the Effulgent Great World is three years in my homeworld. I have to quickly gather the treasures. Entering a land of peril is the fastest method."


    "And this land of peril has been probed by many explorers ahead of time. It''s relatively safer than other lands of peril."


    Qin Yun opened the Eye of Lightning at his glabella.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    With a thought, numerous wisps of Sword Qi flew out. They surrounded him and flattened his surroundings.


    His Dao domain allowed for a very fine probing several kilometers ahead of him.


    The Eye of Lightning allowed him to see treasure light, treasure aura, karma, and the light shined from providence. It was one of the things Qin Yun relied most on during his explorations.


    Finally, the countless Sword Qi formed a Sword of Heaven Earth. It destroyed his surroundings completely! Every spot around him was decimated and everywhere he passed, the cave would be shaved, widening greatly.


    The three means he employed¡­ allowed him to explore carefully.


    One could not be too careful in such a perilous land!


    "This gigantic mountain cave is indeed a relic of an ancient battlefield." As Qin Yun flew, he looked at the damaged runic patterns with his Eye of Lightning. "Some of these runic patterns appear to have been triggered recently. It was probably the scouts from before."


    He did not encounter any danger as he proceeded but he continued flying at a careful speed.


    Soon he had traveled hundreds of kilometers. Clearly, he was now deep underground.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    A gigantic runic pattern appeared on the ground a distance away from him. Even though it had existed for hundreds of thousands of years, the remnant runic pattern continued to effuse a good amount of might.


    A black bolt of lightning sparked as hundreds of black bolts suddenly shot at Qin Yun like winding snakes.


    However, they were a distance away.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!" The bolts were constantly fended off by the Sword Qi.


    Qin Yun felt its might and heaved a sigh of relief. He waved his hand as the Green Leaf Flying Sword flew out from his sleeve. It streaked across the air, forming the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, intercepting hundreds of black lightning bolts. The bolts collectively unleashed a barrage of attacks on the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier but failed to make even a tiny crack.


    "It''s been hundreds of thousands of years. The runic pattern is already weakening. My Eye of Lightning long noticed something amiss and it was triggered from afar; yet, it can barely match the power of a third Firmament Essence Soul." Qin Yun was alarmed. "How strong would it be if it were complete?"


    "I have to be careful. Although others have probed ahead, this nest is filled with passageways. The scouts could have only probed a tiny area."


    Qin Yun turned more vigilant.


    ¡­


    "Phew¡ª Phew¡ª"


    Lu Fan sat cross-legged on a red boulder, his azure-colored robe already in shreds. The temperature around him was extremely high but he managed to withstand it.


    He had a wound on his abdomen and his face was pale.


    "Where is Junior Sister Yan''er? This underground nest is like a huge maze. The deeper I go, the more I struggle to get my bearings." Lu Fan griped in anxiety. "Perhaps I have gone in the wrong direction? But where could she be?"


    He was anxious and also helpless.


    "I can''t probe too deep. It''s too dangerous. I should head to other passageways. If they are exploring the area, they would likely leave behind damaged arrays." Lu Fan tore his clothes and looked at the wound in his abdomen. After eating a pill, the wound gradually healed. "I can''t wait any longer."


    Sou!


    He began backtracking.


    He returned to the previous crossroads and flew towards the other cave.


    ¡­


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning could see five hundred kilometers away. As he had entered the same cave Lu Fan had taken, he finally could see Lu Fan''s aura slightly more than fifty kilometers away.


    "It''s Brother Lu Fan." Qin Yun immediately headed in his direction.


    ¡­


    "The dragon experts captured a few fiendcelestials to scout the path but Junior Sister Yan''er wasn''t there." Lu Fan felt a little lost.


    In the land of peril that resembled a maze, there was no way he could find her.


    What should he do?


    "Junior Sister Yan''er, where are you? Where?"


    "I''ve used up most of my life preservation items. Even if I find her, I don''t know if I can safely bring her out of here. She might have even died while acting as a scout. I''m really useless. After wasting so much time and resources, I still can''t find her." The worried Lu Fan blamed himself. All he could do was continue his search in a daze.


    "Brother Lu."


    A voice sounded from afar.


    Sou!


    A figure flew over with raging Sword Qi around him.


    Lu Fan was taken aback. He turned back and saw the raging Sword Qi dissipate, revealing a familiar figure. He was none other than one of the five outsiders that the Scenic Jade Palace had sent as trial candidates! He was the mortal sword immortal, Qin Yun.


    "Brother Qin Yun, you really came in?" Lu Fan, who was still blaming himself in his confusion, found it somewhat unbelievable. He felt moved as he said with the utmost gratitude, "We met purely by chance but you came in to help me at the risk of your own life. It is difficult for me to repay this debt. However, this place is too dangerous. Brother Qin Yun, it''s best you return. Turn back to the way you came from!"


    "I plan on dying with Junior Sister Yan''er. There is no need for you to sacrifice your life for us," said Lu Fan.

 392 Rescue

    Chapter 392: Rescue


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was very impressed by Lu Fan''s reaction. He landed and said with a smile, "Brother Lu, I came in here to seek treasure. Rescuing her is just something to do in passing. Besides, the underground passageways here are dense and complex. It''s still not a certainty that I''ll bump into her."


    "You came in here to seek treasure?" Lu Fan was taken aback as he said immediately, "It''s not that I''m looking down on you, but this place is too dangerous. Even a second Firmament Essence Soul might lose their life at any second. It''s really not a suitable place for you to seek treasure."


    "Returning back the same way I came in isn''t that easy either. There are the experts from three factions besieging the area," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Besides, since I''m already in here, I can just leave with the Transference Token if things go awry. Don''t try to persuade me on this matter."


    Lu Fan had no choice but to nod, seeing as Qin Yun came to a decision.


    "Although Brother Qin is saying otherwise, he definitely has the intention of helping me and Junior Sister. Even if I must expend all that I have, I have to ensure his safety," thought Lu Fan.


    "Brother Qin, shall we?" Lu Fan asked.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    The duo traveled together and collectively used all sorts of methods to probe for danger. Of course, Qin Yun''s Dao domain was not something Lu Fan, a newly-promoted second Firmament Essence Soul, could sense. The difference between them was just too great.


    "Oh?"


    The duo proceeded to search for ten minutes before Qin Yun saw a path that went deep into the caverns through his Eye of Lightning. In there was a familiar aura that made Qin Yun smile.


    "Brother Lu, congratulations," said Qin Yun.


    "Congratulations?" Lu Fan was taken aback as he could not help but look at Qin Yun with eyes filled with excitement. "Brother Qin, do you mean¡­ you found¡­"


    "Yes, I used a Heavenly Eye technique and can see that, in the depths of another passageway, there are fiendcelestials forcing a few people to scout ahead. One of them is your junior sister," said Qin Yun.


    "She''s found. She''s finally found." Lu Fan muttered, looking at Qin Yun with moist eyes. "Thank you, Brother Qin."


    "What is most important now is to rescue her," said Qin Yun.


    "The five fiendcelestials escorting the scouts are peaked second Firmament fiendcelestials. I cannot match them," Lu Fan nodded and said solemnly. "However, I do not need to defeat them. I only need to rescue her! With my treasures, I am fifty percent confident I can save my junior sister. Brother Qin, there is no need for you to go with me. When the fiendcelestials attack, I will not be able to divert my attention to care for you in my bid to save her."


    To him, Qin Yun was only a mortal. Even with a Dao domain of fifteen kilometers, he was still not Lu Fan''s match, much less the match of peaked second Firmament fiendcelestials.


    He did not find it odd that Qin Yun managed to rush into the nest of caves unharmed. After all, he was mortal! Fiendcelestials would not dare use too much strength to try and stop him. By catching them by surprise with his fifteen-kilometer Dao domain, he had a chance of charging into the mountains. After all, there were many passageways and entrances among the caves.


    "I shouldn''t follow?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Alright then. However, you have to believe me on this. Bring this flying sword with you. When the time comes, perhaps it can help you a little."


    With that said, Qin Yun flipped his hand, producing a misty rain-like flying sword out of his fingertip. He handed the Misty Rain Sword to Lu Fan.


    "Flying sword?" Lu Fan hesitated slightly.


    Carrying the flying sword of a sword immortal with him? If Qin Yun had any intention of killing him, it would be problematic.


    The flying sword could easily rob him of his life at such close proximity!


    "I doubt I made a wrong judgment of character. At most, I''ll expend the Stand-in Life Charm that Brother Wang gave me," thought Lu Fan. Following that, he took the Misty Rain Sword that Qin Yun handed to him. He said with a smile, "Alright. I''ll carry it with me."


    He was a disciple with extremely great talent in the Scenic Jade Palace, having chanced upon many fortuitous encounters.


    Were he not, an Essence Soul like him would not have been able to escape the ambush and pursuit of fiendcelestials while still being able to infiltrate the mountains.


    Stand-in Life Charms for Essence Souls were just too rare and extremely precious.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The duo continued proceeding forward and soon, they arrived at a crossroads.


    "Follow this path forward. The fiendcelestials are about twenty-five kilometers ahead," said Qin Yun. His Dao domain had long enveloped the area but it could only vanquish weaker beings. It was still far from sufficient when it came to dealing with a peaked second Firmament fiendcelestial. Even his Green Leaf Flying Sword was insufficient in that aspect. Only his Intrinsic Flying Sword could accomplish the feat of an instant kill.


    "Alright. Brother Qin, just wait here for me." Lu Fan nodded as he suppressed his agitated feelings. He departed immediately with a whoosh.


    Qin Yun watched it all happen quietly.


    He could not follow.


    "News of me has probably been transmitted by the fiendcelestials outside to the fiendcelestials inside here," thought Qin Yun. "Once they see me appear or sense my flying sword¡­ they will probably flee instantly."


    Qin Yun had managed to slay a peaked second Firmament fiendcelestials in one strike. His strength had already been proven outside.


    Therefore, once the fiendcelestials inside sensed the arrival of the terrifying mortal sword immortal, they would naturally be scared out of their wits.


    "Since they are responsible for probing the area, they must have many exploratory divine powers, Dharma spells, and treasures," thought Qin Yun. "At the very least, I can see through my Eye of Lightning that the area fifteen kilometers away is being shrouded by a blurry light. I would be detected once I come within fifteen kilometers of them. And once they detect me¡­ they will have plenty of time to kill the prisoners and flee with the Transference Tokens."


    Killing the prisoners and then escaping?


    Qin Yun did not wish to see such a scene. Regardless, Lu Fan and his two fellow disciples had lent a hand to help him. Although their help was unnecessary, it was the thought that counted. Qin Yun naturally would not sit idle when it came to rescuing someone.


    ******


    Qin Yun stopped in the crossroads while Lu Fan continued onward.


    Soon, he flew into the region encompassed by the blurry gray light.


    "Oh?" Fifteen kilometers ahead, the five fiendcelestials forced the prisoners forward to scout the area.


    One of the fiendcelestials that held a gray disk knitted his brows. He shouted through a voice transmission, "That Scenic Jade Palace disciple is here again."


    "Hehe, he sure doesn''t give up. He actually pursued us this far."


    "For a punk that just entered the second Firmament, he sure has a lot of life-preserving items. He managed to escape several times." Two peak second Firmament fiendcelestials chuckled.


    "Leave him to us. We might reap great benefits by killing that punk."


    The fiendcelestials showed no fear towards Lu Fan. In fact, they looked forward to killing him and robbing him of his treasure.


    Lu Fan approached with a whoosh as he pushed his speed to its limits. The gap between them quickly contracted to just mere kilometers. With Lu Fan''s acute eyesight, he instantly saw the prisoner that he was most worried about in front of the fiendcelestials.


    "Junior Sister Yan''er." Lu Fan''s heart hung heavy in his chest.


    A blood-covered Yu Yan was slowly flying. Not long ago, she had been cut deeply by a stream of light. Thankfully, it was across her abdomen and not a critical part like her neck. She was instantly rescued by the fiendcelestials. Despite their cruelty, the fiendcelestials definitely would not let their prisoners die so easily. Even so, nearly half the prisoners had perished.


    "I can rest for another hour. Once the two ahead of me finish their probing, it will be my turn." Yu Yan''s eyes flashed with a glint of hope. "Senior Brother, if I can survive this ordeal, I will definitely say what I have always wanted to say."


    "If I can survive another two hours, my chances of survival will greatly increase."


    Yu Yan still wished to live on.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Boom!" A loud explosion resounded from behind.


    Yu Yan turned to look.


    She saw a man dressed in tattered azure-colored clothes. Azure light flowed around him before surging towards the fiendcelestials.


    "Senior Brother!" Yu Yan was stunned. Tears flowed down her cheeks involuntarily. "Why are you so silly? Why?"


    "Anyone that gets in my way shall perish!"


    The man let out a frenetic, angry bellow. With a wave of his hand, a Dao talisman was set aflame.


    "Boom!"


    Azure-colored lightning blasted out as it struck the nearest fiendcelestial that was in his way. The fiendcelestial held a shield in one hand and a huge ax in the other. The shield rapidly increased in size, blocking the entire passageway.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The lightning''s might was extremely potent. Under its barrage of attacks, the shield-holding fiendcelestial was sent retreating hundreds of feet.


    "Hahaha. Punk, you do have many treasures." The fiendcelestial quickly found his footing amid rapturous laughter.


    "I''ll risk it." Lu Fan clenched his teeth. He did not hold any hopes of killing the peak second Firmament fiendcelestial! It was just too difficult at his level.


    However, he believed he could take a calculated risk to rescue Yu Yan, even if he was only fifty percent sure of that.


    "Sou!"


    He instantly lit up another Dao talisman with flames as he transformed into a black bolt of lightning. With a flash, his speed reached that of a peak third Firmament Essence Soul.


    "So fast!"


    "Thankfully, this passageway isn''t too big. Trap him." The two fiendcelestials focused their attention on him.


    "Either I die or I rescue Yan''er!" Lu Fan had a crazy look in his eyes. Both his hands clutched three Dao talismans!


    As long as he broke through the blockade of the two peak second Firmament fiendcelestials, he had a chance of rescuing his junior sister.


    If he failed to overcome the blockade?


    In that case, death awaited him!


    "Senior Brother!" The white-dressed Yu Yan was already covered in tears as she helplessly watched this scene.


    "Haha, he''s here to save his junior sister. What a man of passion." The other fiendcelestials watched in amusement. "He sure has a lot of treasures. When we kill him, our two senior brothers will enjoy most of the perks but we should reap some of the rewards."


    "I implore the heavens. I''m willing to give up everything as long as my senior brother survives." Yu Yan prayed silently.


    At that moment¡ª


    A flying sword beam flew out of Lu Fan''s sleeve. It blended in with the numerous azure-colored streams of light.


    It traversed the thousand plus feet that separated the two parties in an instant, appearing right in front of the fiendcelestial that held the shield and ax. Despite the shield having the bulk of a tiny hill¡ª


    "Phew!"


    The flying sword vanished into the void right before it hit the shield. When it appeared again, it was already in front of the fiendcelestial''s chest. With a boom, it blasted open a gigantic wound, naturally pulverizing the heart within.


    When the other second Firmament fiendcelestial saw this, he only felt the area around him tremble. A huge hole had blasted open in his companion, right in front of him. Boring out of the body was a misty rain-like flying sword that was now coming for him!


    Out of pure instinct, his legs turned limp. "Junior Brother is dead?"


    "Escape!" The second Firmament fiendcelestial immediately triggered his Transference Token with a thought.


    "Boom!"


    An imposing spatial fluctuation enveloped him, tearing apart the void and transporting him away.


    The flying sword flashed at an extremely fast speed, quickly shifting directions to fly straight at the other three first Firmament fiendcelestials.


    "A flying sword?"


    The three first Firmament fiendcelestials instantly recalled the news they had received from their companions outside when they saw the flying sword.


    "It''s that terrifying mortal sword immortal."


    "He''s here too."


    "His strength is apparently that of a reincarnated Skyimmortal."


    The three first Firmament fiendcelestials did not hesitate to leave. They instantly triggered their Transference Tokens and vanished amid spatial fluctuations.


    ¡­


    Lu Fan was still hysterically charging, still holding the three Dao talismans in his hands. Before he could risk everything in an all-out attack, he saw the peak second Firmament fiendcelestial holding the shield perish instantly. The other four fiendcelestials did not hesitate to escape right after that.


    "Whoosh." The misty rain-like flying sword carved out a trajectory before stopping in midair.


    Lu Fan looked at the floating flying sword in a daze.

 393 More than Half Gathered

    Chapter 393: More than Half Gathered


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother Qin, who exactly are you?" Lu Fan looked at the Misty Rain Sword floating in front of him, his mind momentarily set adrift.


    He was not a fool. By now, he naturally knew that Brother Qin Yun was an extremely powerful existence!


    "Senior Brother!" An agitated voice rang out as the white-dressed Yu Yan flew to him excitedly, her eyes brimming with tears.


    Lu Fan looked over.


    "Junior Sister." Lu Fan did not have the time to bother with Qin Yun as he excitedly flew to meet her.


    The couple met in midair and could not help but embrace each other.


    "Senior Brother."


    "Junior Sister."


    They found it hard to curb their emotions. Them being together after experiencing such a calamity felt like a dream.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun cast his Beam Transformation Art and quickly appeared somewhere nearby. He landed and looked at the embracing couple from a distance away.


    Qin Yun watched silently as he could not help recall the lovely days he spent with Xiaoxiao.


    "May all lovers be united in matrimonial harmony," whispered Qin Yun. "Yes, it has to end in matrimonial harmony."


    With a beckon, the Misty Rain Sword carried the remnant treasures of the dead fiendcelestial to Qin Yun''s side.


    Qin Yun stored the flying sword away before looking through the treasures left behind by the fiendcelestial.


    "Not bad. This shield and ax are both transcendent-grade Dharma treasures." After Qin Yun put them away, he searched through the Cosmic Bag. "This fiendcelestial had a little more than the two peak second Firmament fiendcelestials from before."


    "It''s said that it''s easier to find treasure in the Ancient Augury World. But in fact, killing enemies to rob them of treasure is the faster way," thought Qin Yun. "These fiendcelestials will go through painstaking means to accumulate treasure in the Ancient Augury World, as well as the treasures they obtained over their long periods of cultivation¡­ but they will all be mine after they are slain."


    "In less than half a day, the two outside and the one inside puts my kills at three peak second Firmament fiendcelestials. Their treasures add up to approximately one and a half inferior-grade Numinous treasures. Adding in the ones I received previously, I have already amassed two inferior-grade Numinous treasures after coming to the Ancient Augury World."


    Qin Yun felt a little excited.


    He needed to obtain at least three inferior-grade Numinous treasures from his trip to the Ancient Augury World!


    He originally felt pressured, but after finishing three peak second Firmament fiendcelestials he had reaped a rather huge harvest. He had already reached over half his goal of three inferior-grade Numinous treasures!


    "I just need to kill another two or three fiendcelestials and I should have enough treasures," thought Qin Yun. "However, since I took action so publicly this time, the news of a mortal sword immortal in the Ancient Augury World with strength approaching that of a Skyimmortal will probably spread quickly. It will become more and more difficult for me to kill powerful fiendcelestials by surprise. After all, as long as their guard is up, they can instantly trigger the Transference Token to escape."


    Qin Yun looked over after checking his spoils of war.


    The distant Lu Fan and Yu Yan were still hugging each other.


    They also confessed their feelings after experiencing the harrowing calamity.


    "Junior Sister, from this moment forth, you are my wife. I will report this to Master when we leave this place," said Lu Fan.


    "Okay." Yu Yan''s face blushed as she snuggled into Lu Fan''s embrace. Then, her eyes happened to find Qin Yun who was standing a distance away.


    "Qin Yun?" Yu Yan said in surprise. "Senior Brother, why is Brother Qin here?"


    Lu Fan was taken aback as he immediately turned his head.


    "Feel free to continue. I''m in no rush," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Brother Qin." Lu Fan flew over excitedly with Yu Yan in tow. "Junior Sister, it''s all thanks to Brother Qin that we were able to survive this calamity. Quickly bow and thank him."


    With that said, Lu Fan tugged at Yu Yan as he gave a deep bow.


    Yu Yan was still feeling a little baffled but she believed Lu Fan. She gave a deep bow together with him.


    "It''s alright. It was just something I did in passing," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "It might be something in passing to you, but for a married couple like us, you have given us new life," said Lu Fan excitedly. He looked at Yu Yan. "Junior Sister, Brother Qin risked his life and ignored the blockade of the experts outside. He stormed right in to help me save you. That flying sword from before¡­ was Brother Qin''s flying sword! It was what slew the peak second Firmament fiendcelestial in one strike and scared the other fiendcelestials out of their wits into retreating."


    Yu Yan was secretly alarmed.


    Killing a peak second Firmament fiendcelestial in one strike?


    "Senior Brother, what background does this Qin Yun have?" Yu Yan could not help but send a voice transmission.


    "He might be something like a reincarnated Skyimmortal. Whatever he is, he is much stronger than us," said Lu Fan through a voice transmission. "Regardless, he is our benefactor."


    Yu Yan nodded slightly.


    "Brother Qin, thank you for saving my life." Yu Yan bowed once again.


    "Senior."


    At that moment, the rest of the prisoners flew over.


    These prisoners were captured by the fiendcelestials just like Yu Yan, forced to scout ahead. They had all clearly seen Qin Yun take the mighty flying sword and put it away. Their savior was obviously this mysterious mortal expert.


    "Senior, you caused the fiendcelestial to flee at the mere sight of your presence. We are lucky to be alive." The prisoners bowed one by one. There were humans, demons, and even dragons. All of them were at the first Firmament Essence Soul realm.


    "The fiendcelestials were so lost in fear that they did not even make time to kill us." A demon prisoner forced out a black poison needle from his glabella.


    "This poison needle was stabbed into our Essence Souls. If they triggered it, our Essence Souls would dissipate."


    "If they had escaped any slower, they might have been killed by Senior''s flying sword."


    The prisoners were rejoicing.


    "Poison needle?" Lu Fan looked nervously at Yu Yan.


    "It''s fine. They are already gone. Without the owner around to trigger it, I can quickly force it out," said Yu Yan.


    Qin Yun looked at the prisoners and said, "All of you lack Transference Tokens, so returning along the same path will only lead to death. After all, there are more powerful fiendcelestials outside. It''s best you find a spot in this underground nest to hide in. Hide for a month or two and I believe the fiendcelestials outside will give up and leave. Once it''s safe, you can then leave."


    "Yes, Senior." The prisoners nodded in unison.


    "Let''s do this." Qin Yun pondered for a moment as he took out six black jade tokens from his Cosmic Bag and threw them to the prisoners. "These are transmission tokens. I will leave my transmission mark on them. Once I determine that there''s no danger outside, I''ll send all of you a voice transmission. You can all leave when that happens."


    "Thank you, Senior." The prisoners accepted them gratefully.


    Although it was possible that everyone outside would leave after they stayed hidden for a month or two, there was still the faint possibility that the fiendcelestials would remain! They would only exit to their deaths!


    With Qin Yun giving them transmission tokens, it ensured greater safety for them.


    "Senior, we will not disturb you any further." The prisoners bowed before dispersing quickly.


    ¡­


    Lu Fan and Yu Yan were in no rush to leave.


    While Yu Yan slowly forced out the poison needle in her Essence Soul, Lu Fan asked "Brother Qin, what do you plan on doing now?"


    "There''s no rush. We can talk details after Miss Yu forces out the poison needle," said Qin Yun.


    Lu Fan was enlightened.


    Moments later.


    Yu Yan had forced out her poison needle as well.


    "The Thousand Saber Fiend Sect''s Soul Repressing Needle." Lu Fan''s eyes turned chilly when he saw that.


    "Miss Yu, those fiendcelestials forced all of you to scout the entire way to this point. Did you find anything of note?" asked Qin Yun. "Did you find any spots with treasure?"


    Yu Yan nodded. "We discovered two spots, both extremely dangerous. One of them was an Altar of the Magus and the other was a Grotto-heaven. We were unable to probe the two spots."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred. "Please tell me in detail about these two spots."


    "The Altar of the Magus was extremely strange," said Yu Yan. "We could see a corpse sitting cross-legged on the altar. It is likely a Grand Magus corpse. When we found it, the fiendcelestials sent two prisoners to investigate. They only got a hundred feet away from the altar before they died instantly. The fiendcelestials did not dare make another attempt due to the shock."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The magus lineage¡­ was good at hex arts and Gu arts. Many of their lethal techniques were indeed strange.


    Even in death, the Grand Magus had left behind techniques that were not easily dealt with.


    "The fiendcelestials did not dare attempt again. Following that, we proceeded forward and found a Grotto-heaven," said Yu Yan.

 394 The Grotto-heavens Interior

    Chapter 394: The Grotto-heaven''s Interior


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun listened carefully.


    After reaping a huge harvest from slaying three fiendcelestials, he became a lot more wary. He did not think it would be wise to probe the core areas of the perilous area he was in, but he could make more attempts in the periphery.


    "This Grotto-heaven is actually rather safe," said Yu Yan with a smile. "We were really nervous as we tried to probe it. However, none of us could open the Grotto-heaven''s entrance! Naturally, there were no injuries or deaths. Even the two second Firmament fiendcelestials made an attempt but they failed to open the Grotto-heaven''s entrance as well."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    "After exploring for so long, we only found these two spots to be special," said Yu Yan. "Of course, we have not gone into the core areas. If not for your help, the other prisoners and I would have probably perished while scouting."


    Qin Yun smiled and thought for a moment. He then took out a Transference Token. "This is a Transference Token I received from slaying the fiendcelestials! It''s for you, so that you and Brother Lu can leave the Ancient Augury World at any time."


    "Thank you, Brother Qin. If not for this Transference Token, it would be quite troublesome for her to leave." Lu Fan was excited as well. Although he could escape with the Transference Token at any time, it was impossible for him to abandon her. Unfortunately, her Transference Token had long been snatched.


    Yu Yan took it excitedly. "Thank you, Brother Qin."


    Any sect''s Transference Token¡­ acted as a catalyst for the massive array formation that encompassed the Ancient Augury World. They all shared the same purpose, so anyone could use them.


    "I happened to kill three fiendcelestials and obtained an additional three. Having more than one is useless to me," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    He still had two left to spare after giving one to Yu Yan. However, there were six prisoners from before. They were complete strangers and there was no way for him to split two Transference Tokens among six; therefore, Qin Yun did not even mention it.


    "By the way, Miss Yu, please give me a map and label the spots of the Altar of the Magus and the Grotto-heaven," requested Qin Yun.


    Yu Yan and Lu Fan exchanged looks.


    "Senior Brother and I plan to stay in this nest for a few more days," Yu Yan said as she waved her hand. A map materialized in midair as she said helplessly, "The underground cavern has too many passageways, and so many of them are alike. It''ll be easy to find the Altar of the Magus, but as for the Grotto-heaven¡­ it''s located in a unique spatial node in the void. It''s not that easily found. I''ll bring you there instead."


    "Sure." Qin Yun nodded. "I''m afraid I''ll be troubling the two of you."


    "It won''t take long." Yu Yan and Lu Fan were desperately thinking of ways to help Qin Yun. After all, they had no idea how to repay the gratitude they had for saving their lives.


    "Brother Qin, follow me." Yu Yan led the way forward.


    ¡­


    After several turns, they soon saw a massive Altar of the Magus.


    The Altar of the Magus was located to the side of a passageway. The rocks that concealed it had been blasted apart, revealing an altar inside a massive hall that was about two hundred feet tall. There were twelve columns on the altar, each densely engraved with magi runes. And a figure sat beside one of the columns. It leaned on the column motionless.


    Qin Yun opened his Eye of Lightning and observed carefully.


    "It''s dead." Qin Yun could clearly tell that the hunchbacked elder''s beard was a disheveled mess. The body was dessicated and the skin that was exposed had dense magi runes on it. Qin Yun felt a shudder simply from seeing the body with his naked eye. He even felt an invisible energy encroach upon him.


    "What a terrifying hex art. It retaliates simply from looking at his corpse." Qin Yun was alarmed but his Dao domain managed to defend against the invisible force.


    The hex arts its corpse exudes are still considered weak," explained Yu Yan. "But if you enter a hundred-foot radius around it, even more horrifying methods will be activated. We didn''t even notice it before two prisoners that got too close died."


    "This is a Grand Magus that''s skilled in hex arts. However, his body seems ordinary," thought Qin Yun.


    The magus lineage had many cultivation paths.


    Magi were humans that studied the natural order of the world and Godfiends until they gradually figured out some of their mysteries. Therefore, the true magus lineage had high proficiency in medicine, divination, body cultivation, array formations, etc. Gu arts and hex arts were only two of the paths. For instance, in Qin Yun''s homeworld, the Great Chang world, the magus lineage had waned. Using the natural environment of the surrounding mountains to their advantage, the magi continued to spread hex and Gu arts. However, it was still in decline and there was only one Grand Magus in Magistress Mountain.


    "It''s best to stay away from a Grand Magus that''s adept at hex arts." Qin Yun made the decision.


    ¡­


    After visiting the Altar of the Magus, the trio continued forward and finally arrived in a cavernous passageway.


    Yu Yan came to a stop beside an ordinary-looking wall in the passageway.


    "It''s here." Yu Yan waved her hand as her Dharmic powers manifested as a blade flash that struck the passageway''s wall. Amid trembles, a huge door revealed its faint presence before it quickly concealed itself.


    "The Grotto-heaven hides in the void. This is the entrance," said Yu Yan. "However, the fiendcelestials from before have already tried. They were unable to open the entrance."


    Yu Yan and Lu Fan exchanged looks.


    "Brother Qin, since you now know the location of the two places," said Lu Fan with a smile. "We shall bid you farewell."


    "Alright. If I discover that the blockade outside is gone, I will inform you through the messaging mark," said Qin Yun.


    "Thank you, Brother Qin." Lu Fan and Yu Yan left together with that.


    Both of them knew that they would only be a burden if they stayed with Qin Yun. The storming of perilous lands? Qin Yun could protect himself, but that did not mean they could do the same for themselves. Qin Yun would need to divert his attention to help them. If they encountered demons, he would have to pay them even more attention.


    Hence, it was best to separate as soon as possible.


    Qin Yun watched their departing figures and could not help but smile. "Soon. I should soon amass the three inferior-grade Numinous treasures I need in the Ancient Augury World. When that time comes¡­ Xiaoxiao and I can reunite, and I can meet my daughter."


    Turning to look at the wall, he sent out a sword flash from his fingertip.


    The Misty Rain Sword flew into midair.


    Buzz¡ª¡ª


    The surrounding void trembled, naturally affecting the Grotto-heaven''s void, finally revealing its entrance once it succumbed to the pressure.


    The entrance was about a hundred feet tall and looked old and unsophisticated.


    "Crack!"


    Qin Yun directed the sword with his mind.


    "Boom¡ª"


    The Misty Rain Sword tore through the void, ripping open a black void rift. With massive might, it struck the Grotto-heaven''s door. The door that had easily withstood the attacks of the fiendcelestials exploded apart after one strike from Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword! After all, Qin Yun was a lot more powerful than them.


    The Grotto-heaven''s door was in shambles, with several huge holes in it. Qin Yun immediately opened his Eye of Lightning, allowing him to understand the general situation within.


    "Time to enter." Qin Yun flew straight into the Grotto-heaven with the Misty Rain Sword ahead of him while he was enveloped in sword flashes.


    The Grotto-heaven entrance that had been damaged gradually healed and finally turned whole once again. Then, it concealed itself and disappeared.


    ¡­


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun landed on a granite-paved road.


    The granite path winded around a forest of peach blossom trees. There was a compound in the distance and Qin Yun saw treasure light rising from it through his Eye of Lightning.


    "There''s treasure. From the treasure light, it''s worth at least two inferior-grade Numinous treasures." Qin Yun was pleasantly surprised. "This place really lives up to being a land of trials controlled by the top sects of the Effulgent Great World! Treasures that are found in an ancient battlefield, even just a little¡­ are enough to be astounding."


    Regardless if it was the Grotto-heaven he entered or the Altar of the Magus, they were clearly not core to the massive land of peril.


    The source of the intertwining passageways was probably the most dangerous spot.


    However, Qin Yun no longer bothered to probe further.


    "Once I obtain the treasures in this Grotto-heaven, I will have gathered ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures. I can then get Puqu Dragonlord to save Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun''s heart raced. The moment he had been waiting for was approaching.


    "I must not be careless."


    "I can''t fail at the final moment."


    Qin Yun carefully explored. Due to an array formation, he could not see the details of the tiny compound. He could only judge from the aura his Eye of Lightning could see. "This Grotto-heaven is not huge, perhaps about five kilometers wide! It''s mostly filled with peach blossom trees and right in the middle of the forest is this tiny compound. The treasures are in there but it also has a cadaveric aura. There is likely an expert''s corpse inside. Based on the aura, it should be a Skyimmortal''s corpse."

 395 The White-robed Man Under the Peach Tree

    Chapter 395: The White-robed Man Under the Peach Tree


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I don''t detect any danger in that compound. From the looks of it, I just need to crack the peach forest''s array formation." Qin Yun waved his hand as a flying sword that resembled a green leaf flew out from his sleeve. It charged straight into the woods.


    There were flower petals strewn across the ground of the peach woods that spanned five kilometers.


    The entire peach forest''s array formation activated the instant the Green Leaf Flying Sword flew out.


    Countless petals flew off the ground, condensing into soldiers. These soldiers held spears and blades made of condensed petals. Some blocked the Green Leaf Flying Sword while the others went straight for Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun controlled the Green Leaf Flying Sword perfectly since it was a transcendent-grade flying sword.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword moved unpredictably in dazzling fashion. It cast the fourth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Waning Waxing Moons, causing it to appear like a ghost. It would vanish into the void at times and appear behind the Dao soldiers. It would quickly vanquish the Dao soldiers from insane angles! These Dao soldiers formed from petals only had the strength of a second Firmament Essence Soul realm. If they managed to surround Qin Yun, they might have posed a threat. But now, the Green Leaf Flying Sword was rapidly slaying them one by one.


    Of course, there were a large group of Dao soldiers that charged at Qin Yun as they encircled him.


    "So many Dao soldiers? Thankfully, they aren''t too strong." Qin Yun looked at the Dao soldiers that charged at him. The Misty Rain Sword that constantly floated beside him immediately cast the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    The gigantic Cyclic Sword Flash barrier instantly enlarged right up to where the Dao soldiers were, preventing them from further trapping him.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­


    Wherever the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier came into contact with the Dao soldiers, a sword flash would grind them to smithereens.


    As they were reduced to smithereens, the array formation continued operating as flames burst from the peach flowers.


    "This peach forest is filed with array formations. I cannot allow it to continue attacking. Instead, I should destroy the array as soon as possible." As Qin Yun protected himself with his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he used the Green Leaf Flying Sword to attack.


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword flashed into the void and when it appeared again, it was right in front of a peach tree.


    "Boom!" The peach tree instantly exploded when the sword stabbed into a peach flower. What was at first a natural and perfect peach flower forest array formation presented a flaw as its might began to rapidly reduce.


    "Although I don''t understand this array formation, my Eye of Lightning can see the various nodes of the array formation. As long as I crack the nodes, the array formation will be forced to stop!"


    "The nodes are usually the safest parts of an array formation''s defense. But it seems cracking this peach blossom forest array is relatively easy."


    After Qin Yun cracked the first node, the Green Leaf Flying Sword tunneled into the void like a fish through a river. It appeared again in front of a tree a quarter of a kilometer away. When it struck the trunk, that peach tree exploded as well.


    Complementing the Eye of Lightning with a flying sword art that could tunnel through the void was clearly a very fast way to crack an array.


    Peng! Peng! Peng¡­


    As peach trees exploded one after another, the peach forest array began to crumble.


    "Hmph!"


    A sudden sneer resounded through the entire Grotto-heaven.


    Qin Yun turned alarmed as he immediately braced himself for danger.


    "If you wish to take the treasures left behind by my master, you''ll have to get past me first." The deep voice resounded everywhere as tree roots shot out from the land suddenly. Some were ancient but forceful, appearing like chains that spanned the length of the world. They attacked Qin Yun from all different angles. The Green Leaf Flying Sword attempted to intercept them in midair.


    Whoosh.


    Under the collective lashing by two long tree roots, the Green Leaf Flying Sword was sent flying backward with a boom. The two tree roots also flew backward from the impact and, although they were damaged, they rapidly recovered.


    Those were only two of the roots. More roots were headed directly for Qin Yun.


    Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!


    A series of successive booms that resembled a violent storm ensued. The dense roots lashed at the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier, each strike tearing apart the void. Black void rifts dotted the surroundings and, along with the might of the roots lashing, it left Qin Yun alarmed. However, the Cyclic Sword Flash barrier formed by the Misty Rain Sword held its own. It remained invulnerable despite the relentless assault of the roots.


    "It''s too strong. Only my Intrinsic Flying Sword can withstand them. The Green Leaf Flying Sword can only produce strength about twenty to thirty percent of my Intrinsic Flying Sword''s. It won''t be able to fend off the roots." Qin Yun was seriously worried. "The Misty Rain Sword has to protect me but in that case, how do I destroy the roots?"


    "Strange."


    Qin Yun quickly noticed something. "The Green Leaf Flying Sword had already destroyed the array formation, so why are the roots so powerful?"


    He immediately observed carefully with his Eye of Lightning.


    This time, without the peach blossom forest''s concealment, Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning could clearly see¡­ that hidden among the numerous roots, there was an inconspicuous peach tree. All the roots came from it alone.


    "A tree demon? No, it doesn''t appear so," mumbled Qin Yun.


    "Regardless, it''s only one peach tree. Without the obstruction of the array formation, I can enter the compound directly." As Qin Yun flew to the compound in the middle, he maintained his Cyclic Sword Flash barrier.


    The roots that were flailing in the sky unleashed a frenetic barrage of attacks, but despite all the sounds produced by the explosive impacts, they failed to crack the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    Qin Yun rapidly approached the compound.


    "Whoosh."


    The inconspicuous peach tree finally moved.


    It flew over with a whoosh and it transformed in midair into a warrior draped in silver armor with a mask covering its face! However, its body appeared to be that of a¡­ female warrior.


    The female warrior''s armor even had dense runic patterns on it.


    "A Guardian General?" Qin Yun was alarmed when he saw this. "A Guardian General with strength at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul level?"


    In the past, he had seen the Yellow-scarved Strongman and the Guardian General in the West Sea Ancient Skydragon Palace in the Great Chang world. However, the Strongmen were all at the peak Connate Golden Core level. They only represented the lowest class.


    Legends did speak of more¡­


    Some Yellow-scarved Strongman and Guardian Generals were said to easily lift a mountain, with strength that matched Skyimmortals or Skyfiends.


    And the female warrior that Qin Yun was facing looked to be such a Guardian General with peak Essence Soul combat strength. She was Qin Yun''s equal.


    "I can''t do anything to you." The female warrior''s voice was cold. "You can take away the treasures here but you are not to sully my master''s corpse. If you violate this rule, you will definitely regret it."


    "Guardian General," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I came here for treasure only. And it can even be said that I am honored by this senior here to receive the treasures he left behind. How can I sully the senior''s corpse?"


    It was clear that the treasures in the compound were deliberately left behind for juniors.


    To abuse the corpse after obtaining its treasure? Although most corpses of experts were of great use, Qin Yun would not stoop to such levels.


    Besides¡­


    Most experts were willing to leave treasures for juniors but they would typically leave vengeful techniques behind. If the corpse was sullied in any way, perhaps even worse trouble would befall him.


    "Mark your words," said the female warrior coldly. With that said, she looked at the compound with a conflicted look. After some hesitation, she walked forward and pushed open the wooden door to the compound.


    Qin Yun looked through the wooden door.


    In a yard was a huge peach tree. A white-robed man sat cross-legged beneath it. A book was laid on a table in front of him and there were alcohol flasks and cups on a table to his side. He looked like he was leisurely reading.


    However, Qin Yun knew that the white-robed man was long dead.

 396 Butterfly Portrai

    Chapter 396: Butterfly Portrait


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun followed the female warrior into the yard.


    "Open." Qin Yun opened his Eye of Lightning and carefully observed the compound. It was an ordinary structure with only three buildings.


    The buildings were unspectacular and lacked treasure light.


    Only the spot by the white-robed man had a blurry treasure light coming from the books and portraits on the table in front of him. But most eye-catching of all was the dazzling treasure light by his chest. It was reddish-pink. To Qin Yun''s vision, the treasure light illuminated half the yard.


    "Without the concealment of the array formation, this treasure light is even clearer." Qin Yun was momentarily mesmerized by the sight. "I felt that it would be worth at least two inferior-grade Numinous treasures from afar, but now I see it is probably equal to three inferior-grade Numinous treasures."


    Qin Yun made that judgment.


    The female warrior walked to the side of the peach tree and looked at the white-robed man''s corpse silently. Following that, she looked up at Qin Yun and pointed across the table. "Please sit."


    Qin Yun understood what was happening and walked to the other side of the table, sitting opposite the white-robed man.


    The white-robed man was rather handsome and there was a faint smile on the corner of his lips.


    "Whoosh."


    The cross-legged man suddenly opened his eyes and looked up, staring straight at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    However, he noticed that the white-robed man''s corpse remained sitting there cross-legged! Now there was an additional white-robed phantom that overlaid it.


    "A scene left behind before his death?" Qin Yun was enlightened.


    "My name is Fang Rong." The white-robed phantom looked at Qin Yun. "I also came to the Ancient Augury World to vie for Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s treasure. But as you can see, all my efforts were for naught. I even lost my life as a result."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s treasure?


    The female warrior watched as tears gradually formed in her eyes.


    "I never really held the extravagant hopes of obtaining the Connate Numinous treasure that is famous throughout the Three Realms, the Sky Measuring Rule of Immortal Nine Raven. After all, it is a Numinous treasure born from the starry Chaos itself. Even Golden Immortals and Buddhas would desire it. As a ninth Firmament Skyimmortal existence, Exalted Immortal Nine Raven had relied on this Connate Numinous treasure to defeat mighty figures like Golden Immortals and Buddhas. He had a crusty temper and showed no respect for anything or anyone. He eventually enraged Magus Luo of the Ten Magi. He was inflicted with a hex art and fled to his lair in the Ancient Augury World, where he succumbed to the hex half a month later."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    The magus lineage that was considered to be declining in the Three Realms was that powerful? An existence that could defeat Golden Immortals and Buddhas was hexed to death just like that?


    But on further thought, that was indeed possible. Although it was in decline, it was still a faction that spanned all of the Three Realms!


    "Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s treasure was sought frenetically by powerful experts. However, the Ancient Augury World is a Small World that is governed only by the Heavenly Dao. Mighty figures are unable to gain entry as a result. The highest existences that can enter are nine Firmament Skyimmortals. Furthermore, given Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s temperament, it would not be easy to obtain his treasures even after his death."


    "So without surprise, many immortals and fiends have died here. Some lost their lives because of Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s traps while others ended up in mutual destruction. Of course, there were others that were lucky enough to eventually obtain some of Exalted Immortal Nine Raven''s treasures," said the white-robed phantom. "As for my batch, we were drawn to one of the three supreme-grade Numinous treasures of Exalted Immortal Nine Raven, the Fire Raven Calabash. Opening the calabash will release a million fire ravens, each one of them having sentience. They burrowed underground to form this Fire Raven Nest."


    "The Fire Raven Nest is extremely dangerous. Many experts have targeted the supreme-grade Numinous treasure within. Should anyone ever obtain it, they would be invincible to anyone below the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm."


    "I also wished to obtain it. With it, I could have sought my revenge."


    The white-robed phantom''s eyes suffused with hate as he said that.


    Following that, he said in a self-deprecatory manner. "Although we knew that many experts would die and that only one person would obtain the Fire Raven Calabash, we still stormed in here. Unfortunately, I was not the one destined to win."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    The underground nest with its dense, cavernous passageways that resembled a gigantic maze was actually the Fire Raven Nest?


    A supreme-grade Numinous treasure? With it, one would be invincible to anyone below the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm?


    For reference, superior-grade Numinous treasures might be rare, but the Great Chang world''s Patriarch Bai had the superior-grade Numinous treasure, the Stellar Heavenly Cycle. However, he would not dare claim invincibility beneath the fourth Firmament Skyimmortal realm! Was a supreme-grade Numinous treasure that much more powerful than a superior-grade Numinous treasure?


    "Before I met my end, the amounts of treasure I accumulated dwindled. There are only the most common weapons left." The white-robed phantom looked at Qin Yun. "However, there is also a medial-grade Numinous treasure. It can be considered of some use."


    Qin Yun''s heart raced.


    A medial-grade Numinous treasure?


    It was more than enough! He now had enough treasures to rescue Xiaoxiao! He never expected the Skyimmortal Fang Rong''s weapon to be a medial-grade Numinous treasure.


    The female warrior shot a glance at Qin Yun before looking back at the white-robed phantom. She cherished every look in his eyes and expression on his face. This was the final time in her life she would be able to see her master speak.


    "But for me, my cultivation to date stems from it." Fang Rong pointed at a scroll laid out among the books and scrolls on the table. "Years ago, I was the scion of a wealthy man. I barely managed to knock open the gate of immortality. I didn''t even enter the Connate realm! Back then, I was at a restaurant and encountered a drunken man who couldn''t pay for his meal. I pitied him and paid for him. I even got him a room to stay that night. The next day, he drew a portrait for me personally, saying that it was to repay me for the silver."


    "That portrait allowed me to cultivate to where I am now. It also allowed me to escape my homeworld''s catastrophe."


    "Perhaps it might have been easier to die with my loved ones in my homeworld," muttered the white-robed phantom before he looked back at Qin Yun. "I''m leaving these items to you but I have one request. I wish for you to kill Hawk Fiend King Che Jie when you are absolutely confident you can do so. He was originally a hawk demon who was also a famous demon king in the Effulgent borders. He wreaked havoc in the region and destroyed my homeworld. As for his cultivation level, he has reached the sixth Firmament Skydemon realm. His lair is in the Small World of the Efflugent borders, the Hawk Fiend World."


    "This is my only request." The white-robed phantom looked at Qin Yun. "Receive my treasure and subsequently, the karma."


    With that said, the white-robed figure dissipated, leaving the white-robed corpse motionless.


    "I will take this karma." Qin Yun nodded.


    The eyes of the female warrior warmed greatly when she heard that.


    She beckoned her hand as a Cosmic Bag situated at the white-robed corpse''s chest flew out onto the table.


    "The treasure is all in there," said the female warrior. "This Cosmic Bag, the books and scrolls, and especially that portrait. My master was able to cultivate into a Skyimmortal all thanks to that portrait. According to my master''s guess, the drunk guest he encountered¡­ was likely a mighty figure''s avatar that had descended into the mortal world incognito. Only a mighty figure could produce such a powerful portrait."


    "The portrait of a mighty figure?"


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Mighty figures were unable to enter Small Worlds with their true bodies but their avatars were capable of doing so.


    For instance, back when the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure preached the Dao on Numinous Treasure Mountain, he had done so with an avatar.


    Qin Yun picked up the Cosmic Bag and permeated it with his Dharmic powers. He immediately sensed a flute inside. However, at his present level, he was quickly able to determine that it was a medial-grade Numinous treasure!


    "I really gained a lot." Qin Yun put away the Cosmic Bag and looked at the books and scrolls on the table. He reached out for the rolled portrait.


    He unrolled it and on it, there was a splatter of ink. It looked like a dark and solemn land. Above the splash of ink was a simply-drawn butterfly.


    The butterfly looked like it was flying, like it had an intelligence.


    It flew happily, brimming with joy and cheerfulness. The portrait even seemed to ''come to life.'' Qin Yun could see that the trajectories formed by the fluttering of its wings were profound and unfathomable. They appeared to contain the ultimate truth of the Heaven and Earth.


    Qin Yun was an itinerant sword immortal. He had never had a powerful master. He modeled himself after nature and that led his cultivation to this day. But this portrait¡­ it was the most impressive thing he had ever seen. He could not help but feel touched seeing it, thinking back to the phrase ''acquiring comprehension of the Dao in the morning leaves one contented even if one dies in the evening.'' All the questions that puzzled him when he contemplated his Sword Dao alone were resolved. The truth of the Heaven and Earth was elegantly fused into the butterfly.

 397 Breakthrough, Skyimmortal Realm Part 1/2

    Qin Yun looked at the portrait as his face flushed red with excitement. He completely engrossed himself in it.


    When she saw this, the female warrior thought, "The way he looks so fanatically at the portrait, he must not have seen many overly powerful manuals. Either he comes from a tiny sect or he is an itinerant cultivator. Will he be able to kill Hawk Fiend King? He needs to reach the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm. Upon reaching that, even the Heavenly Courts will send envoys to recruit him to be an official."


    The nine Firmaments of the Skyimmortal realm were further demarcated into three major sub-realms. Every three Firmaments was a big step up, making the attainment of the seventh Firmament very difficult.


    As for breaking through the ninth Firmament to become a Golden Immortal, that was something only the mightiest figures of the Three Realms were capable of. They would even become honored guests of the Jade Emperor and Queen Mother.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was lost in his amazement as he gazed at the scroll. The way the butterfly''s wings gracefully flapped was simply wonderful. Their movements were even more gorgeous than those of any sword art Qin Yun had ever cast. As such, problems that vexed him during his individual comprehension of the Sword Dao were being resolved one after another. Having comprehended so many different aspects, he felt more and more touched and joyful.


    As he watched the butterfly, sword techniques filled his mind naturally. They contained the charms of the butterfly''s flight.


    Butterfly''s flight¡­


    The casting of sword techniques¡­


    Qin Yun inferred more than a thousand sword moves in his mind. However, this sudden epiphany gradually vanished. He felt that the trajectories of the butterfly wings were the core truth of the world. The sword moves he had inferred were still incomparable to it. He was still not experienced enough to perfectly interpret them. To comprehend more, he needed to spend more time on it.


    "This land of darkness that was formed by a splatter of ink." Qin Yun cast his gaze to the spot beneath the butterfly.


    This land looked very simple.


    But with Qin Yun''s present realm, he immediately noticed its extraordinariness.


    Depth, majesty, repression, pain, suppression¡­


    He felt all sorts of emotions tug at him.


    The ''land'' similarly contained a core truth of the world. However, the sensations of repression and pain made Qin Yun uncomfortable. He could even vaguely see his wife die. He saw his son and daughter, his parents, brother and sister-in-law, niece and nephew, as well as Daoist Divine Firmament¡­ Everyone he knew was collapsing dead.


    All humans in the Great Chang world died.


    Immense pain enveloped Qin Yun''s heart. Although he gained new insights while watching this and was inferring new sword techniques even then, it only took about a hundred plus moves before¡­


    "Pfft!"


    He could not help but spit out a mouthful of blood that had been hanging heavily in his chest.


    "I can''t stare at it for too long. The repressive feeling it gives is just too much to bear. Spitting out this mouthful of blood makes me feel a lot better."


    When he opened his eyes again, he did not dare to stare at the land continuously. Instead, he would mainly watch the butterfly and occasionally sweep his glance at the land of darkness¡­


    But just a few sweeps from the corner of his eyes left Qin Yun taken aback.


    "This is¡­"


    The dark and deep land. The intelligent and joyful butterfly.


    Both of them gave off contrasting charms.


    But together, they were extremely harmonious like Yin and Yang. The contrast was intense but it also formed a perfect compliment. It was a flawless portrait, a picture that contained the core truth of the world.


    As he looked at the two aspects simultaneously, he could sense a resonance between the two opposing elements, giving Qin Yun new insight.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was an itinerant cultivator who cultivated arduously. He had no master and by the time he soared, the manuals left behind by Skyimmortals and Skygods of the Great Chang world gave him little aid since he was already approaching their level.


    In fact, those select few in the Great Chang world had mostly obtained the greatest of heritages.


    Daoist Divine Firmament needed no explanation. He was a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor! He had obtained the top heritage of the Three Realms.


    Patriarch Bai was present when the Dao Ancestor preached the Dao on Numinous Treasure Mountain. He was also considered a disciple of the Dao Ancestor by name.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was the only Bodhisattva of the Great Chang world''s Buddhist school of thought.


    The East Sea Skydragon was a dragon by birth!


    Only Skydemon Palace''s Skydemoness and Human Emperor cultivated in relatively ordinary heritages. However, no matter how ordinary their heritage was, one was that of demons and the other of Godfiends.


    Only Qin Yun had obtained a mortal-level sword immortal Dharmic formulation early on. Apart from that, he had nothing!


    He had obtained the stone wall palm arts long ago, but as his realm increased, the usefulness of it gradually diminished.


    As for the Butterfly Portrait, it was a lot more brilliant than the stone wall palm arts. The latter had intense feelings in it and the intent contained in it was very unbridled. As for the Butterfly Portrait, the simple splatter of ink and a few strokes of the brush that formed the butterfly reduced the mighty Dao into its simplest form. It was a lot more profound in that way, on a completely different level!


    Even Skyimmortals would look at it with reverence if they saw it.


    The deceased Skyimmortal, Fang Rong, also mentioned that he believed that the portrait was likely drawn by a mighty figure.


    Such a portrait was a priceless treasure for an itinerant mortal sword immortal like Qin Yun! He had gained immense benefits simply from immersing himself in it.


    In fact, if it were elite disciples of a top sect in the Effulgent Great World, they might not think too much of the portrait since they had the opportunity to see manuals left behind by Golden Immortals themselves.


    ******


    The female warrior did not disturb Qin Yun as he engrossed himself in the Butterfly Portrait.


    And elsewhere.


    "That mortal sword immortal has killed another junior brother. He has killed three junior brothers as of now," said the red-robed fiendcelestial in a deep voice. "I originally thought that the dense and complex network of the underground nest would make it difficult for them to meet. Besides, I warned them earlier to escape the instant they discovered the mortal sword immortal. But still, another of our junior brothers has perished."


    "He was too crafty," snorted the saber-wielding fiendcelestial. "He actually thought to have that Scenic Jade Palace disciple carry his flying sword. No one thought anything of him but that flying sword suddenly flew out before anyone could react¡­ A junior brother was slain because he was caught by surprise."


    "Yes." The red-robed fiendcelestial nodded. "Unfortunately, we have no more subordinates left to probe for us."


    Among the three factions outside, the Thousand Saber Fiend Sect still had four fiendcelestials left. Of course, only two of them were third Firmament fiendcelestials. They did not think too much of the deaths of the two weaker junior brothers but now they had no way to force the other two junior brothers to probe.


    Before this¡­


    They had instructed five junior brothers to take prisoners with them. The most dangerous tasks were left to the prisoners.


    "Boom!"


    Just as the two third Firmament fiendcelestials were raging silently, a large boom erupted from the deep depths of the mountainous region. All experts from the three factions were astounded.


    "The source of the boom came from nine hundred kilometers underground," said the saber-wielding fiendcelestial with a voice transmission after he sensed it. "It''s so far away yet so powerful! From the looks of it, something important has been discovered."


    "According to our sect''s records, this place might hide the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Fire Raven Calabash. The battle that happened here was just too intense. All parties eventually agreed to a ceasefire and sealed off the entirety of the Ancient Augury World. Following that, ordinary disciples would be sent to this area to explore it as a trial. Losses were minimized. Even we do not dare enter the core region of the Fire Raven Nest. However, there are tons of Skygods and Skyfiends who have died there. Just obtaining some of their treasure would be a success." The red-robed fiendcelestial was tempted.


    At their present realm, they were not far from breaking through to the Skyfiend realm. Ordinary disciples might not know the secrets of the Ancient Augury World but peak third Firmament elites were privy to the information.


    ¡­


    When the resonating boom came from the deep depths, the dragons did not hesitate to transform into streams of light and rapidly tunneled into the caves.


    "Let''s go." The Daoist cultivators hesitated for a moment but also entered through another cave quickly.


    "Are we entering or not?" asked the saber-wielding fiendcelestial.


    "They have scouts in there. Since they dare enter, we should too," shouted the red-robed fiendcelestial.


    Hence, the fiendcelestials rapidly followed behind the Daoist cultivators.


    Instantly, there were no Essence Souls on top of the mountain. There were only a few mortals left, hoping to pick up some scraps.


    "They all went in?"


    "The experts from three factions and that mortal sword immortal are all inside. It will be quite lively in there." The mortals naturally hoped for the conflicts to get more intense. The more troubled the waters were, the easier it was to fish in those waters. They could immediately activate their Transference Tokens and escape with anything they found.

 398 Breakthrough, Skyimmortal Realm Part 2/2

    Not long after the experts from the three factions entered the underground nest, the land rumbled loudly.


    What astounded the seven mortals outside, including the old man Lu You, was that the rumbling grew louder. It rapidly approached them until the entire mountain was shaking vigorously.


    "What are they doing?"


    "We might be fishing in troubled waters, but these waters are too troubled. We could drown!" The seven mortals flew away in fear. As they flew, they stared at the shaking mountains.


    Finally¡ª


    "Boom!!!"


    An earth-shattering blast boomed. The mountain range that spanned about five kilometers exploded, instantly pulverizing everything inside. Furthermore, a shockwave blasted out in every direction! Thankfully, the seven mortals had long flown out of the mountain range''s vicinity. They were still desperately flying as far away as possible. By the time the shockwave traversed about a hundred kilometers to reach them, its might had greatly weakened. It could do nothing even to ordinary Connate realm cultivators.


    Lu You''s eyes condensed runic patterns as he looked into the distance. He saw treasure light appear from the giant chasm created by the explosion.


    "The appearance of treasure light. There must be important treasures there." Lu You could not help but mumble.


    "It''s too huge a commotion. Those Essence Souls are all extremely perceptive. Perhaps nearly half the Ancient Augury World will sense it." The other mortals had bitter expressions. "Once they send voice transmissions to each other, it will not take long for every one of the top Essence Souls in the Ancient Augury World to learn of this."


    "Yes, and it won''t take long for a huge group of Essence Souls to storm this area."


    "With so many experts around, there will be nothing left for us."


    The seven mortals felt a little helpless.


    ******


    Qin Yun remained oblivious to the huge commotion in the underground nest.


    After all, he was in a Grotto-heaven that completely isolated him from anything in the outside world.


    "Whoosh!" A gentle wind blew in the Grotto-heaven, sending a few peach blossoms falling to the ground.


    Qin Yun continued holding the portrait. As he looked at the butterfly and dark land in it, his various insights transformed into individual sword techniques.


    "Acquiring comprehension of the Dao in the morning leaves one contented even if one dies in the evening. I, Qin Yun, finally know how far away I am from Golden Immortals and Buddhas." Qin Yun rolled up the portrait and carefully placed it in his Cosmic Bag. He also believed that the portrait was drawn by a mighty figure. Although he had only looked at it for half a day, he had already reaped massive insights from it.


    Back when he created the fifth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Traveling in Solitude, he was already approaching the Dao realm of a Skyimmortal. He was not far from achieving ''A Sword Forming a Grotto-heaven By Itself.''


    After learning so much from the Butterfly Portrait, he had torn through that thin membrane that obstructed his progress. Deep down, he had grasped a brand new level of understanding towards space.


    Qin Yun could even clearly understand the construction of the peach forest Grotto-heaven he was in. He was confident that he could destroy the Grotto-heaven with one strike! This was something he was incapable of in the past.


    Although he had penetrated a rather thin membrane, it was a qualitative change.


    His Sword Dao was a perfect system. Without even needing to cast it, Qin Yun already knew that his Dao domain had reached fifty kilometers! The qualitative change of fifty kilometers allowed one to have absolute confidence in surviving the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal.


    Not just that, but it was relatively easy to condense an Essence Soul in the Effulgent Great World due to its richer Heaven Earth Essence Qi.


    But the tribulations of the Effulgent Great World were even more intense! One needed their Dao domain to reach fifty kilometers with a Dao realm of a Skyimmortal should they dare hope to survive the smiting of the Heavenly Tribulation! If such a Dao realm was attained, surviving the tribulations was a certainty. If one failed to attain it, the tribulations would almost certainly end in failure. Of course, there were tricks to help, such as amassing merit. The might of the Heavenly Tribulation would be lessened if one was endowed with merit.


    For example, Ninth Hong and Eighth Zhu had reincarnated to amass merit.


    The female warrior could not help but ask, "Did you benefit greatly from looking at it all day?" She wished for Qin Yun to avenge her master so she naturally wanted him to become stronger.


    "Yes, I benefited quite a lot."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He extended his right hand and immediately, the Misty Rain Sword appeared. It enlarged to three feet like a sword of ordinary length.


    Qin Yun closed his eyes.


    Over the past day¡­


    The large amount of insight he received left him brimming with thoughts of a new sword move. He was forcibly repressing that urge to continue perfecting it. Finally, he brandished his sword after holding onto the Misty Rain Sword with his eyes closed for some time.


    This strike did not contain any Dharmic powers.


    However, it contained Qin Yun''s will and emotions.


    "Whoosh."


    A sword beam flashed as it streaked across a wall. It tore through the peach trees outside, carving a path that ended at the Grotto-heaven''s boundary.


    The entire Grotto-heaven trembled gently as the Grotto-heaven''s borders appeared with a quiver.


    "What?" The female warrior was astounded. "I did not feel him use any Dharmic powers. Just a simple strike can cause the Grotto-heaven to tremble? If he had powered his Dharma treasure with Dharmic powers, the Grotto-heaven will have probably shattered completely. Master was only capable of such a feat by powering a Dharma treasure with his Skyimmortal Dharmic powers after he survived the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal."


    "He has already grasped a lot more than Master." The female warrior understood this point.


    Qin Yun seemed infinitesimally close to the Skyimmortal Dao realm.


    In fact, he had broken through ten minutes into looking at the Butterfly Portrait! He had spent the rest of that time consolidating his insights, making them more robust.


    "That strike¡­"


    Qin Yun''s strike was powerful but easily delivered, harmonious, and flawless. It was also very gentle.


    It was not as overwhelming as the fifth Dreamlike Sword move, Traveling in Solitude.


    It was very gentle, like a spring breeze bringing a slight drizzle. However, this gentle strike had completely taken Qin Yun''s sword to a brand new level.


    "This strike is the sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword. I shall name is First Lightning Encounter," whispered Qin Yun.


    First Lightning Encounter.


    He still could remember clearly¡­


    Back in Grand Dominance County, by the side of the Flower Solarium river, it was the day when demons attacked at the crowded Courtesan Belle selection.


    The woman''s light-blue dress fluttered in the wind. With Palm Lightning, she split her bolts into three, striking the demons.


    That was the first encounter Qin Yun had with his wife, Yi Xiao!


    Their first meeting was deeply impressed in his soul, something that would eternally be a part of him.


    "First Lightning Encounter." Qin Yun cast the gentle spring breeze-like strike as he recalled that beautiful scene.


    Qin Yun then took a step forward and vanished from the yard. He streaked across the sky and landed in a peach forest a few kilometers away. He began practicing his swordplay there, for he was afraid he would reduce the compound to ruins if he continued. His first cast of First Lightning Encounter had left behind cracks in the yard''s walls even without the usage of any Dharmic powers.


    In the peach forest, Qin Yun converted all the insights he gained into his sword technique.


    There were still differences in something inferred and something cast physically. Only by physically practicing it could he verify any mistakes in his inference.


    ¡­


    Outside.


    Due to the intense commotion that happened in the mountains, teams from various top factions were drawn to the scene. After all, they were elite disciples at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm of top sects. They had a high chance of becoming Skyimmortals, Bodhisattvas, or Skyfiends. They entered knowing certain secrets and knew that the mountains hid the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Fire Raven Calabash.


    Such a land of great importance had caused the deaths of many Skyimmortals and Skygods. This naturally meant there were many treasures within, but also that it was considerably dangerous.


    Such a loud commotion and the exposure of a treasure trove attracted them quickly.


    "More people are here."


    "It''s the Jade Tripod Sect, more Daoists again."


    There were numerous experts gathered around the mountains. There were people from the Buddhist, Daoist, and Fiendcelestial lineages. They saw at a glance a group of Essence Soul experts approaching on a cloud. They were none other than the Jade Tripod Sect, a top sect of the Effulgent Great World. There were three peak third Firmament Essence Souls and six peak second Firmament Essence Souls. There were no first Firmament Essence Souls! Clearly, the battles here would only intensify. Being overly weak would only burden the rest.


    "That many Essence Souls?"


    "Probably almost half the experts in the Ancient Augury World are here."


    "This is nothing. Everyone is rushing here and I believe more than half the powerful Essence Souls in the Ancient Augury World will end up here."


    The Jade Tripod Sect disciples discussed as they flew.


    Meng Huan was among them.


    Meng Huan looked curiously at the experts on the mountains, somewhat nervous. After all, once the treasures revealed themselves, a conflict was inevitable.


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan, you have engaged in too few life-and-death battles after ascending to the Effulgent Great World. Don''t mess around when it happens. Take heed to obey the instructions of your senior brothers and senior sisters," whispered a thin man beside him.


    "Don''t worry. I understand." Meng Huan nodded.

 399 Huanser!

    Chapter 399: Huan''er!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Deep underground in the nest, there was a peach forest inside a Grotto-heaven.


    Qin Yun cast his sword arts, causing Sword Qi to surge everywhere, and making countless peach blossoms flutter into the sky.


    After practicing for two full hours, Qin Yun came to a stop and put away his Misty Rain Sword. He then took out the Butterfly Portrait from his Cosmic Bag and carefully observed it.


    "I thought that by seeing the Butterfly Portrait, along with the numerous insights and experience I have gained, I should be able to create the sixth and seventh move of the Dreamlike Sword one after the other." Qin Yun looked at the Butterfly Portrait for a moment before gently shaking his head. "The sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword, First Lightning Encounter, was quite easily created but the seventh move¡­ I''m falling just a little short due to my lack of experience."


    The sixth move, First Lightning Encounter, was a natural result of having sufficient amounts of experience.


    The dark lands in the Butterfly Portrait made Qin Yun feel stifled when he looked at them, to the point of vomiting blood.


    However, the ''dark lands'' and the ''flying butterfly'' seemed to represent Yin and Yang respectively. They gave him many new insights, and as such he had a strong desire to create a more powerful move, which would become the Dreamlike Sword''s seventh move.


    But clearly¡­


    He was still lacking in experience. What he had was insufficient to reach the goal of the standards he demanded.


    "One must learn how to walk before they run. Once more experience is accrued, the seventh move will come naturally." Qin Yun did not demand any more of himself for the time being. He knew very well that he was already not far from creating the seventh move.


    After putting away the Butterfly Portrait, Qin Yun flew towards the compound deep in the middle of the peach forest as a whooshing stream of light.


    In the compound, the female warrior was sitting beside the white-robed corpse, silently guarding him.


    "This female Guardian General sure has deep feelings for her master," thought Qin Yun.


    "You''re back again." She looked up at Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I''m here to bid farewell."


    "The circulation of the Heavenly Dao results in karma. Remember your promise to my master," said the female warrior.


    "Don''t worry. I, Qin Yun, will naturally keep my promise," said Qin Yun. "But as I am now, I''m no match for that Hawk Fiend King."


    Even the Heavenly Courts needed to send powerful Heaven armies and generals to deal with a powerful fiendish demon of that level.


    The female warrior looked at Qin Yun without saying a word. Then, all she did was look at her master silently.


    Qin Yun cupped his hands gently before turning to leave.


    Phew!


    With a flash of his figure, he streaked across the sky and landed at the end of the granite path. It was the entrance of the Grotto-heaven.


    "Open." He easily opened the Grotto-heaven''s entrance. He saw the wall of the underground passageway before he took a step and exited.


    The Grotto-heaven''s doorway sealed up once again.


    The Grotto-heaven once more only held the female warrior and the Skyimmortal corpse.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" The entire Grotto-heaven was quaking.


    "Master, you said that once a visitor accepts your karma and treasures, their departure would trigger the destruction of the Grotto-heaven." The female warrior lifted her mask gently as she looked passionately at the white-robed corpse. "You also ordered me to allow you to be vanquished by the spatial storms along with the peach forest."


    The Grotto-heaven was collapsing while the space around it was filling with spatial storms.


    The five-kilometer span of peach trees began to collapse as well.


    The compound in the middle was the last to go.


    "You handed me my Life Talisman to give me freedom." The female warrior flipped her hand and produced a crystalline figurine made of jade. It was in the shape of a woman. "But I died the day you did."


    The female general gently hugged the white-robed corpse. "I remember that when I acquainted myself with you, you were alone, without friends or family, or even a place to call home. All you sought was revenge."


    "I followed you and we traveled the cosmos in search of opportunities."


    "I wished so much to avenge you but I''m only a Guardian General, a refined item. It''s impossible for me to increase my strength."


    Whoosh!


    The compound began to collapse as well. The spatial storms swept over it, hurling both the female warrior and the white-robed corpse into the air.


    "Your dying wish was for me to see the world and smile more."


    "However, I don''t want to see the world or others. All I wish is to spend time with you."


    The female warrior gently crushed the Life Charm in her hand, causing fine cracks to appear instantly across her armor.


    Guardian Generals remained immortal only as long as their Life Charms were intact.


    The destruction of a Life Charm also meant the true death of a Guardian General.


    "Whoosh."


    The white-robed corpse dissipated under the grinding winds as the female warrior''s body was reduced to smithereens. Two streams of tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "So I''m only able to cry when my Life Charm shatters." The female warrior sighed lightly. She hugged her master and vanished amid the tempestuous storms.


    ¡­


    "Greetings Master."


    "From this day forth, you will follow me. I call nowhere home and travel across the cosmos. I have been a lonely vagrant in the past, but now I have a partner."


    Back then, the somewhat ignorant female warrior obediently followed her master, rushing across the starry cosmos as they visited world after world in search of opportunities.


    To her, her master was everything.


    ******


    In the underground nest''s passageway.


    Qin Yun quickly emerged. He was still unaware of what had happened to the Grotto-heaven once he left.


    Qin Yun did not find the Guardian General''s Life Charm alongside the most precious Butterfly Portrait and medial-grade Numinous treasure that the Skyimmortal had left behind. Therefore, he knew very well that the Skyimmortal did not plan on giving the female warrior to others.


    "Perhaps he had feelings for her after spending so much time together," thought Qin Yun.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun again traveled within the underground nest. Although he had been in constant pain all these years, fraught with worry over his wife and daughter, he felt a little excited at the moment.


    It was not because he had reached the level of a Skyimmortal but because¡­


    He had accrued the necessary amount of treasures!


    He had enough to request Puqu Dragonlord''s services.


    "After I leave, I should study the situation outside. I need to know if the fiendcelestials are still outside. If they aren''t, I can tell Lu Fan, Miss Yu, and the rest of the prisoners that they can leave." Qin Yun had quite a good impression of Lu Fan and Yu Yan. Perhaps it was because of his feelings for his wife, he usually acted favorable towards couples in true love.


    Sou!


    He constantly approached the surface while following the map provided by Yu Yan.


    "Boom!" "Bam!"


    Faint shockwaves reached him. He could still sense them despite them being a distance away.


    "What''s happening outside? Has a battle broken out?" Qin Yun was puzzled. "I''m still fifty kilometers away from the surface but I can already sense the intense battles outside."


    Sou!


    As he passed through forks in the caverns, he constantly proceeded based on the map.


    When he came to the final passageway, about five kilometers from the surface, he paused. The terrifying shockwaves from the battle on the surface caused the cavernous passageways to quake.


    "What exactly is happening?" Qin Yun was in no rush to leave. Instead, he opened the Eye of Lightning at his glabella.


    He would only leave after ascertaining the situation. Charging out without any notion of what danger awaited him would be foolish.


    Although the cavernous passageways were twisted, Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning would be able to see the outside world clearly as long as light managed to enter.


    "Hahaha, all your Magus Gate has is that handful of people. Yet, you want to vie for this? I think it''s best you scram now. Don''t throw your lives away here." An eight-armed fiendcelestial let out an angry bellow. In front of him stood an elder with a wooden stave. He stood on a mountaintop as nine long veins flew out from the surface of his body and attacked the the eight-armed fiendcelestial.


    "Oh? My Magus Gate is unafraid even when against the eight great sects of your fiendcelestial lineage. Besides, there are more and more Daoists and Buddhists arriving every moment. You have to consider how many of you will leave today alive," said the elder nonchalantly.


    The magus lineage was waning.


    Among the top thirty-two factions of the Effulgent Great World, there was only one sect that stemmed from the magus lineage, the Magus Gate.


    In contrast, the fiendcelestial lineage took up eight spots! It showed how powerful the fiendcelestial lineage was.


    Of course, the Daoist and Buddhist sects were the most impressive, taking up more than half the spots!


    "You people from the fiendish sects are too greedy. It will only spell your doom." A blue-robed woman gently flapped the fan in her hand, sending countless astral winds surging forward.


    "Does your Jade Tripod Sect think it has what it takes?" An ape-like fiendcelestial roared as he intercepted the incoming attacked.


    Boom!


    ¡­


    "So many Essence Souls are fighting?" Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. His Eye of Lightning carefully observed the area. It was difficult to spy through the scattered light; therefore, he penetrated the layers of soil instead.


    The rocks, sand, and mud no longer obstructed his view.


    He observed one area after another.


    Qin Yun was only watching the battle as an uninvolved observer but he was stunned by what he saw. On the periphery of the battleground, there were three Essence Souls in combat formation. Two of them were a thin man and a woman in azure-colored clothes who Qin Yun did not know. But the final person¡­ was an aloof-looking youth in white. Qin Yun stared at him in a daze.


    He was shocked and confounded!


    The infant that garbled as he hugged his thighs¡­


    That quiet boy that began practicing swordplay at the age of six¡­


    A flood of memories inundated Qin Yun''s mind and, without knowing it, he could not stop the tears from streaming down his face.


    "Huan''er!" Qin Yun murmured, his voice trembling slightly.

 400 Treasure Pagoda

    Chapter 400: Treasure Pagoda


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Father. In the future, I will shatter the void and ascend to meet you." Meng Huan''s words still lingered in his ears.


    Qin Yun was looking at his son across vast distances and through various obstacles with his Eye of Lightning.


    The memories of the fifty years they spent together flooded his mind. The intense feelings seemed to explode in him as tears glimmered in his eyes. He watched his son fight.


    "Good. Very good. He did shatter the void. We can finally reunite again as father and son." Qin Yun was extremely excited and delighted.


    "Huan''er''s cultivation level is a lot higher than when I left him."


    Qin Yun looked at his son carefully.


    Although Meng Huan had cultivated for a relatively long period of time, his appearance did not change much. After all, back when Qin Yun ascended, Meng Huan was already a Connate Golden Core that had stepped into the Dao. The number of changes to his soul was very minute.


    "He has matured greatly and seems more restrained. However, he still appears to be a man of few words." Qin Yun could not help but smile as he watched his son. He turned happier the more he looked.


    While the trio formed a combat formation, the other two would frequently shout and talk.


    However, Meng Huan spoke very little.


    "He is quite strong. He should have reached the peak second Firmament Essence Soul realm." Qin Yun nodded. "That''s right. In Huan''er''s homeworld, shattering the void and ascending would typically demand a Dao domain of fifteen kilometers. And that world''s cultivation Dharmic formulations are extremely lacking, far worse than what we have in the Great Chang world. Those that can ascend in that world are no doubt rare geniuses. Once someone like Huan''er obtains the Dharmic formulations of top sects in the Effulgent Great World, their strength would immediately improve by leaps and bounds. Huan''er must have easily attained the peak second Firmament Essence Soul realm once he came here."


    "But then again, time is a factor. The Effulgent Great World''s time passes slowly. A year here is three years in my Great Chang world." Qin Yun frowned slightly. "That means that it hasn''t even been a few years since Huan''er ascended to this plane."


    "He came to the Ancient Augury World for a trial shortly after his ascension? He sure is messing around!" Qin Yun was a little displeased.


    What sort of world was the Ancient Augury World?


    It was a land of trial, a place where many top factions in the Effulgent Great World sent their elite disciples to train. Those that obtained a spot needed to have some illustrious background. For instance, Qin Yun was strong enough that East Sea Skydragon was willing to vouch for him.


    Everyone that came was an elite! How intense would the battles be? Furthermore, the Ancient Augury World itself was dangerous. It was only thanks to the Transference Token that could save lives with a thought that sects sent their precious disciples there. Without those, the losses sustained would be terrifying.


    "Even with the Transference Token, coming to the Ancient Augury World just shortly after he ascends is just too rash." Qin Yun would be sure to reprimand Meng Huan if he had the chance.


    But Qin Yun was unaware¡­ that Meng Huan wished to see his father more than anything after ascending to the Effulgent Great World. He believed his father''s talent to be a lot higher and that he would end up in a top sect. However, regardless of how he searched, Qin Yun was nowhere to be found. Therefore, he came to the Ancient Augury World. There were many treasures and the Transference Token ensured a low-risk environment. Wasn''t such a place something cultivators dreamed of? Once he acquired enough treasures here, he could seek powerful seniors to help divine the location of his father.


    "How should I meet him?" Qin Yun wanted to meet his son that very instant.


    "He does not recognize me as Qin Yun," thought Qin Yun. "I should meet him as Meng Yiqiu first."


    As he considered how to reunite with his son, he carefully monitored the ongoing situation with his Eye of Lightning.


    While paying attention to Meng Huan, he would also look elsewhere.


    Finally¡ª


    Qin Yun discovered the cause of the ongoing brawl.


    About twenty-five kilometers away from Qin Yun, there was a huge chasm. It was five kilometers in diameter and countless trees beyond its boundary had collapsed.


    In the middle of the chasm was a dazzling treasure pagoda!


    "What an impressive treasure pagoda." Even Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning was blinded by the treasure light. It shone clear despite the luster the treasures and array formation emitted.


    The pagoda was eighteen hundred feet tall as it sat deep in the chasm. It emitted a resplendent light that seemed to light up the floors beneath it in waves.


    The array formations of the first and second floors had been destroyed and no longer had any treasures.


    There were a string of treasures lining the awnings of the pagoda on the third floor. They were of every color imaginable with their glows illuminating each other. But a closer look revealed that they were actually various treasures of nature. Just a simple rock or a tree core could match the value of a first-grade Dharma treasure.


    On the fourth floor''s awnings hung sabers, spears, staffs, poles, hammers, calabashes, bells, fans, ropes, mirrors¡­ All of them were transcendent-grade Dharma treasures.


    On the fifth floor''s awnings hung fifteen inferior-grade Numinous treasures.


    On the sixth floor''s awnings hung six medial-grade Numinous treasures.


    Finally, on the seventh floor''s awnings hung a flying boat, an armor set, and a golden seal, all superior-grade Numinous treasures.


    Even Qin Yun held his breath.


    This was the first time he was seeing so many treasures. He was beyond excited.


    "That many treasures? And if I''m not seeing wrong, the pagoda itself is an extremely powerful Numinous treasure. It''s at least a superior-grade Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun. "It''s no wonder it caused so many Essence Souls to go into a frenzy."


    Even if they were disciples of top sects, they were only at the Essence Soul realm after all.


    The appearance of such a pagoda naturally sent them into a fit.


    "The pagoda has seven floors. The array formations of the first two levels have been destroyed. The treasures must have already been taken," thought Qin Yun. "There are five levels left."


    ¡­


    At that moment, a group of peak third Firmament Essence Souls was surrounding the pagoda. They were attempting to crack the array seals while also fighting each other.


    The Daoist, Buddhist, and Fiends were the top three sects in the Three Realms. It was the same in the Effulgent Great World!


    The Daoists had the deepest heritage after all, and they were split into the three lineages¡ªGrand Supreme, Primordial Beginning, and Numinous Treasure!


    For instance, the Scenic Jade Palace that Qin Yun was associated with and the Jade Tripod Sect that Meng Huan was part of were of the Primordial Beginning lineage.


    The Daoists under the Three Pure Ones would work together against external threats! There were veiled contentions with the Buddhists but on the surface, they maintained decorum and never fought each other to the death.


    However, when the Daoists and Buddhists allied against the Fiends, they spared no mercy!


    Similarly, the Fiends were equally crazy when they fought the Buddhists and Daoists.


    As for the rest?


    The dragons, demons, Godfiend lineages, and magus lineages fought on the sidelines. They were prepared to snatch the treasures at any moment.


    "Boom!"


    While a group of Essence Souls were embroiled in battle, they constantly attacked the pagoda. With a loud boom, the third floor finally succumbed.


    Amid the pagoda''s boom, the thousands of treasures on the third floor surged into the sky, flying in every possible direction.


    "Treasures!"


    "They''re ours!"


    Instantly, the Essence Souls deployed all the tricks available to them to snatch the treasures that were flying in every direction.


    Even the Godfiends and magi that kept a low profile went into a frenzy once this happened. After all, the snatching of treasures only lasted an instant. If they did not take risks, all the treasures would be swiped clean. People would use their Transference Tokens as soon as the treasures were obtained, so it was nearly impossible to snatch the treasures once they were taken.


    "They are all extremely valuable natural treasures. The ordinary ones match first-grade Dharma treasures. The more precious ones come close to a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. Even the weaker ones are second or third-grade Dharma treasures. Just gathering a few dozen would be quite a killing." The Essence Souls watched as thousands of streams of light flew into the sky. They fought to snatch them by deploying even more ruthless means.


    The third Firmament Essence Souls were the closest to the pagoda so they had the easiest time grabbing the treasures. The fiendcelestials simply expanded their arms, sweeping their massive palms across the sky to grab the streams of light. A simple grab netted numerous treasures!


    The other experts used their various tricks or Dharma spells. Some even controlled their Dharma treasures to snatch the treasures in fistfuls.


    Some even began attacking each other!


    The second Firmament Essence Souls stayed in formation in the outer perimeter to snatch anything that slipped through the cracks.


    There were just too many treasures. With the third Firmament Essence Souls attacking one another to hold each other back, many treasures slipped through the cracks. One batch flew towards where Meng Huan and company were situated.


    "That''s ours."


    "Do it!"


    The woman in azure clothes shouted. The trio formed a battle formation, readying themselves to snatch the treasures.


    A blurry mist flew out and enveloped a batch of treasures that numbered more than a hundred.


    "It''s ours!" The woman, thin man, and Meng Huan turned delighted. The mist was carrying the treasures towards them.


    "Scram." A stocky fiendcelestial chased after the treasures as he withstood the lightning bolts that struck him. Although his skin was charred black, it was rapidly recovering.


    The fiendcelestial brandished a red bronze pole that suddenly expanded to more than a kilometer. He swept it towards Meng Huan and company with a whistling sound.


    "Bam!"


    The pole fell down like a heavenly pillar. As Meng Huan and company retreated, they braced for a full-strength impact.


    "Boom!" Water waves appeared around them, enveloping the three of them and blocking the strike. However, their faces were pale.


    "You want to compete with me?" The fiendcelestial continued brandishing his pole with savage ferocity.


    "Senior Sister." The woman sent an urgent voice transmission.


    A blue-robed woman from the Jade Tripod Sect noticed it from afar. As she waved her fan, an astral wind whistled over like a blade.


    "Fairy Snow, are you planning on saving your junior brothers and sister?" A black-robed youth who was vying for the treasures scoffed. He flicked his sleeve and immediately a dark cloud appeared in midair to intercept the astral wind.


    ¡­


    The situation on the battlefield was chaotic due to the vying of treasures.


    Meng Huan and company were in dire straits.


    "Hold on! When we can''t hold on any further, we will use the Transference Token." The woman in azure clothes gritted her teeth while sending a voice transmission. She refused to give up. Meng Huan and the thin man nodded as well. If they held on a little longer, perhaps other Daoist sects would lend a hand! However, they were ultimately not from the same sect. It was unlikely they would be so enthusiastic about helping them.


    Since they were only second Firmament Essence Souls, they could always activate their Transference Tokens to escape if they failed to defend. They could not turn the tables in any way.


    Even without the common enemy of the fiendish sects, the Daoists sects had their own internal conflicts.


    Meanwhile, deep in the nest''s passageway, Qin Yun turned anxious seeing the long pole crash down at Meng Huan and company like a heavenly pillar. "How dare you, Fiendcelestial. You are courting death!"


    He was still planning his method of meeting his son but now, he no longer had the luxury of time.


    "Whoosh."


    With a flash, Qin Yun transformed into Meng Yiqiu. He cast a concealment aura Dharmic formulation, changing his soul''s aura to that of Meng Yiqiu. Others might not know of Meng Yiqiu''s soul aura but he naturally knew.


    In his dream of a hundred years, he was Meng Yiqiu. Naturally, his looks, aura, comportment, and the look in his eyes were identical. Even if a powerful expert were to check the karma ties, they would clearly see that Qin Yun and Meng Huan were bound.


    That was because¡­ Meng Yiqiu was indeed one of Qin Yun''s real identities.


    "Huan''er!"


    After transforming into Meng Yiqiu''s appearance, Qin Yun did not hesitate at all. He instantly cast his Beam Transformation Art. His speed was a lot faster than his pre-Skyimmortal days. Without stopping for a moment, a wave of his hand produced a wisp of misty rain from his fingertip.


    The distance separating him from the surface was only slightly more than five kilometers. The Misty Rain Sword instantly tore out of the ground and flew towards Meng Huan and company!


    Immediately following the Misty Rain Sword¡­ was Qin Yun!

 401 Familiar Figure

    Chapter 401: Familiar Figure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun attacked anxiously and hastily with his strongest sword move, the one he just created. The Dreamlike Sword''s sixth move, First Lightning Encounter, was like a spring breeze that brought with it a light rain. It was extremely gentle and all its might was converged.


    Swoosh.


    A wisp of smoky rain tore through the chaotic battlefield in a flash. Many of the third Firmament Essence Souls from the various top factions barely noticed it as they were in a mad rush for treasures.


    "Daoist Yu, I''m better so these are mine." A young Daoist with a protruded mouth sent another Daoist cultivator retreating. By simply extending his hand, he made five blurry air columns condense in midair. They headed straight for a bunch of treasures that were flying away just a short distance away. But at that moment, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword happened to fly past! In order to save Meng Huan, Qin Yun directed his Misty Rain Sword to take the shortest possible path.


    "Trying to snatch my treasures?" The young Daoist''s expression changed when he saw the flying sword.


    For an unfamiliar expert to send a Dharma treasure flying so close, especially when treasure was within reach, made one think that it was deliberate move to take their treasure.


    Although Qin Yun''s flying sword''s strength was converged, the young Daoist could still sense its hidden threat. He naturally did not dare to lower his guard against it.


    "Go."


    As he diverted his attention to capture the treasure, he waved the whisk in his right hand.


    Swoosh.


    Thousands of threads from the whisk extended and stretched across the sky, many of them whistling over to intercept the Misty Rain Sword. The youth was confident in himself. "My whisk is a Numinous treasure and I have personally refined it for a thousand years. It''s best at holding back and obstructing enemies."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun, who was flying closely behind, saw this scene. Immediately, a glimmer flashed in his eyes. The fiendcelestial was attacking Meng Huan and company at that very moment but this person was actually trying to hinder his flying sword?


    "Tear!"


    Qin Yun directed his mind.


    The gentle-looking wisp of misty rain had a sudden surge of strength, producing a deep boom that made all the hearts of the third Firmament Essence Souls present palpitate. A gigantic tear tore open in the void, and the severity of it¡­ made everyone notice how powerful the attack was. The might of Qin Yun''s flying sword was enough to make the youth''s expression change.


    In the ensuing explosion, the thousands of threads from the whisk were blown to smithereens.


    Many of the threads flew back rapidly back towards the whisk.


    "What a terrifying flying sword! His strength is probably equivalent to a Skyimmortal''s. Why would such a powerful expert suddenly appear here?" The youth turned apprehensive. "This cluster of treasures only number in the dozens. Does it really merit an expert of such power snatching it from me? With such strength, he should be right by the pagoda."


    The area closest to the pagoda was filled with the strongest figures.


    The closer one was, the more convenient it was to snatch the treasures.


    "At worst, I can just yield the treasures to him." The youth had no desire to fight the mysterious expert.


    Whoosh.


    The moment he had such a thought, the wisp of misty rain that had blasted through the whisk''s threads flew far away with a whoosh, in the direction of the distant Meng Huan.


    The youth was slightly taken aback. Only then did he come to a realization. "So he wasn''t trying to contend for my treasures."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword as it crossed the entirety of the battlefield. The might it displayed in easily thwarting the whisk''s threads made experts who had witnessed the situation take a mental note.


    However, the wisp of misty rain¡­ was not heading towards the pagoda in the middle of the battlefield. Instead, it was charging straight towards the periphery of the battlefield.


    "Oh?"


    "What''s happening?" The third Firmament Essence Souls saw the Misty Rain Sword fly towards them. Since it wasn''t threatening their treasures, they were willing to make way for it. All of them had a vague idea of the strength of the flying sword''s owner.


    The Misty Rain Sword indeed rapidly flew past them without attacking them at all.


    "Why is this flying sword going towards the periphery?"


    "Who is it trying to attack?"


    Everyone was puzzled.


    Just as this thought crossed the minds of this group of experts, the flying sword had arrived at its true target at the periphery.


    "We won''t contend for the treasures. Let him have them." The woman in azure clothes, thin man, and Meng Huan had pale expressions and blood stains on the corner of their lips. The woman had rapidly made a decision and declared it through a voice transmission. They were giving up the batch of treasures!


    "Let''s hope the fiendcelestial will stop attacking once he obtains the treasures."


    Meng Huan and company had such hopes in mind.


    They wished to stay in the Ancient Augury World a little longer so that they could gain more opportunities to obtain more treasure.


    Giving up the treasure in front of them was much better than being forced to leave with the Transference Tokens.


    "Hahaha." The stocky fiendcelestial finally grabbed the cluster of treasures in midair with his massive palm. His other hand continued cleaving downwards with the long pole, showing no mercy towards Meng Huan and company. "To think the likes of you three dared to fight me?"


    Firstly, he was displeased at the trio''s struggle and secondly, fiendcelestials were accustomed to fighting Daoists. He would naturally attack without mercy if given the opportunity.


    "He got the treasures and still refuses to leave!" The trio turned anxious.


    "Are we giving up just like that? Do we have to leave the Ancient Augury World now?" thought Meng Huan. "But if I do not gather the treasures I need, I can''t hire Old Man Eyeless. Without his help, when will I be able to find my father?"


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Oh?"


    The strike that had been constantly battering their barrier changed trajectories with a whoosh so as to block something in front of the stocky fiendcelestial. He no longer had his arrogance from before, and instead looked extremely serious.


    "He''s actually attacking me?" The stocky fiendcelestial had been secretly paying attention to the terrifying flying sword. He never expected that it had been coming for him.


    He grabbed his pole with both hands and he attempted to deflect the flying sword to the side as though he was stirring the oceans.


    "Bam!"


    But at the instant the pole met the flying sword, it felt like a massive world was crashing into it. The stocky fiendcelestial had no way of deflecting it! With a deep boom, the void shattered, causing the stocky fiendcelestial''s giant body to stumble more than ten steps back in the void. As for the Misty Rain Sword, it vanished into the void in a flash.


    Shoo!


    When it appeared again, it was behind the stocky fiendcelestial.


    The fourth move of the Dreamlike Sword¡ªWaning Waxing Moons! Ever since Qin Yun''s Sword Dao reached the realms of a Skyimmortal, all his previous sword moves experienced a natural metamorphosis. They were more harmonious and profound, with much greater strength. It was a lot easier and natural delivering those attacks.


    "Pole arts¡ªSplashing Winds!" The pole the stocky fiendcelestial wielded instantly transformed into a tempestuous wind that enveloped his body. He was not that easily dealt with, considering how he was a peak third Firmament fiendcelestial after all.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The Misty Rain Sword was untraceable as it attacked from every conceivable angle. Even though the stocky fiendcelestial was defending with all he had, his body was left with deep lacerations, his blood splattering everywhere. He only lived because he had an extremely powerful body. If his body was any weaker, he might have died from the first strike.


    "Freeze."


    Qin Yun finally approached.


    The Misty Rain Sword changed its attack.


    The third move of the Dreamlike Sword¡ªBright Moon Cold Nights.


    This move could freeze the void as well as bodies of the living. Qin Yun''s grasp of the void was turning more profound; therefore, the strike was even more unfathomable. The stocky fiendcelestial could feel that every drop of blood in his body begin to freeze. As the blood flow slowed, ice crystals began forming his muscles and bones. His speed was drastically reduced.


    "Kill!" Following that, the Misty Rain Sword changed its method of assault once again!


    It went from Bright Moon Cold Nights to the strongest attack¡ªFirst Lightning Encounter.


    Like a gentle wind with a thin drizzle, the flying sword went straight for the fiendcelestial''s chest.


    "This is bad!" Although the fiendcelestial''s speed immediately went back to normal, the flying sword was heading towards his chest at a blazing speed. All he could do was grit his teeth and have a savage look. Blood began seeping from his teeth as he brandished his pole with full strength. However, he was clearly one beat slower. All he could do was give up the pole and use his hands to block his chest. His palms were equivalent to a first-grade Dharma treasure.


    However, what looked like a gentle strike created a tumultuous blast.


    His arms exploded apart, sending blood splattering. The fiendcelestial flew backward but his chest remained intact. The injuries his arms had suffered were grievous but the flesh and blood were constantly growing back again.


    "What?" The Essence Souls that were paying attention to the battle were secretly alarmed. Just slightly more than ten strikes was enough to severely injure a peak third Firmament fiendcelestial? This was the strength of a Skygod or Skyfiend!


    Qin Yun had already arrived as he stared coldly at the fiendcelestial. With a wave of his hand, Sword Qi wrapped around the reddish-bronze pole and pulled it towards him.


    "Who is he?" The woman in azure clothes looked at Qin Yun puzzled. "He looks like a mortal sword immortal but his strength matches that of a Skyimmortal. When did such a terrifying mortal sword immortal appear in our Effulgent Great World?"


    "He must be a reincarnated Skyimmortal." The thin man looked at Qin Yun in excitement.


    As for Meng Huan, he was looking at the figure in a daze.


    That figure was extremely familiar to him. It was the very figure that had brought him up. This man guided him in the practice of the sword, every morning and evening, be it rain or shine, regardless of the season¡­ This man had always patiently taught him, guiding him onto the path of being a swordsman.


    This man was his father, the person he idolized the most.


    His father was the strongest in the world, a peerless swordsman unprecedented in history. He shattered the void and ascended after only cultivating for a few decades. His talent was tens, if not hundreds of times, higher than his.


    "Dad?" Meng Huan looked at the figure and muttered.


    He found it somewhat unbelievable.


    The father he had yearned to meet all this time had appeared in front of him just like that.

 402 Congratulations, Junior Brother Meng

    Chapter 402: Congratulations, Junior Brother Meng


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun naturally did not stop after severely injuring the stocky fiendcelestial and snatching his pole.


    The Misty Rain Sword continued its assault on the weaponless fiendcelestial.


    Although his hands were rapidly recovering, the fiendcelestial continued his retreat while using his bloody palms to summon a shield to withstand the incoming attacks of the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Boom." The shield slammed into the fiendcelestial''s body after receiving a blow. It left him stumbling backwards in midair.


    "Sword Immortal, Sword Immortal!"


    The stocky fiendcelestial immediately sent a voice transmission and smiled obsequiously. "I don''t know you, nor did I snatch any of your treasures. All I took were a few natural treasures. That doesn''t deserve your relentless pursuit, right? Is there some misunderstanding between us?"


    Although he had lost his pole, it was an acceptable loss. He did not wish to be forced out of the Ancient Augury World by the mysterious mortal sword immortal, especially when the pagoda had only let loose its bottom-floor treasures.


    "Misunderstanding? There wasn''t any!" Qin Yun snorted coldly while the Misty Rain Sword showed no signs of abating.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The wisp of misty rain kept tunneling through the void and, with the casting of Waning Waxing Moons, attacked the fiendcelestial from different angles like an angry specter.


    He could defend better back when he had his pole! It was the weapon he had spent most of his time with but now, all he had was a shield. It was actually a little cumbersome! Every cultivator had one Dharma treasure weapon that they were best with. Qin Yun was best with his flying sword while the fiendcelestial was best at poles.


    "Stop!" A third Firmament fiendcelestial roared from a distance away. He planned to provide reinforcement since the loss of every peak third Firmament fiendcelestial would reduce the total strength of the fiendcelestials on the battlefield.


    "What? You think of me as nothing but a wooden block? Are you ignoring me?" A third Firmament Essence Soul Daoist expert beside the fiendcelestial attacked to restrain him.


    There were five third Firmament fiendcelestials that moved to provide aid but nearly all of them were held back.


    Only one of them released a stream of light as an attempt at attacking from afar.


    However, Qin Yun and company were located in the periphery. Any aid would take time to reach them. Enough time for an existence like Qin Yun to deliver more than ten strikes.


    The Misty Rain Sword left gaping wounds on the stocky fiendcelestial''s body but he remained alive! He clearly knew the situations in which he could put up a resistance and the ones that he could not afford to.


    "Oh no."


    Due to his grievous injuries, the loss of an arm created a flaw in the fiendcelestial''s defense. The Misty Rain Sword shot straight for his chest with a flash.


    "Darn it. I''m leaving!"


    Indecision invariably leads to trouble.


    The stocky fiendcelestial had survived to this day because he was decisive. When he sensed the impending death presented by the flying sword, he immediately activated the Transference Token.


    Buzz.


    A spatial fluctuation descended upon him, wrapping him up and forcefully pulling him through the void. He was transported away.


    A peak third Firmament fiendcelestial was actually forced to flee the Ancient Augury World.


    These fiendcelestials¡­ were in no way the likes of Old Master Chu who Qin Yun had previously fought. Instead, they were disciples of the top factions in the Effulgent Great World. The Dharmic formulations they cultivated in and the Dharma treasures they wielded were all extremely impressive! Qin Yun could only suppress his opponents after his Sword Dao reached the Skyimmortal realm. He would not be that much different in strength compared to the fiendcelestials before his breakthrough.


    "Whoosh." The stream of light finally flew over from afar. Before it even arrived, the stocky fiendcelestial had been forced to escape.


    Qin Yun turned to look.


    The stream of light came to a halt. It was a dark red projectile that almost immediately returned from where it came.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun did not continue pursuing the matter. There were too few third Firmament Essence Souls on the battlefield that posed him any threat. Back when he observed the battle, he only found three Essence Souls near the pagoda that had strength matching Skygods or Skyfiends. They were roughly as strong as he was.


    ¡­


    It may have taken some time to describe, but the battle between Qin Yun and the stocky fiendcelestial actually played out extremely quickly. It was over in a blink of an eye.


    As such, Meng Huan was still immersed in his excitement.


    "Junior Brothers, let''s thank this senior quickly. We must not slight him in any way." The woman in azure clothes sent a voice transmission to her junior brothers.


    "Yes. Come on Junior Brother Meng, let''s go over quickly," said the thin man with a voice transmission.


    Meng Huan looked at Qin Yun''s figure and muttered softly, "Dad?"


    He had always wished to see his father, but now that the time had actually come he was left rooted where he stood.


    "What did you just say?" The thin man widened his eyes. "Junior Brother Meng, what did you just say?"


    "Dad?" The woman looked at Meng Huan in astonishment. "Junior Brother Meng, are you calling out for your father?"


    Meng Huan''s eyes were still on Qin Yun.


    He stared at his father. The look in his eyes and his temperament were still identical to what they were in the past! After all, he knew his father very well! But it was also for this reason that Meng Huan was able to faintly feel the sorrow buried deep in his father''s heart.


    At this point in time, there was no need to look at one''s looks or temperament. Just the feelings that stemmed from the kinship they shared¡­ was enough for him to determine that the person before him was his father.


    "Dad seems to have experienced some changes in recent years?" thought Meng Huan. He was very certain that the person before him was his father. He believed that his father must have experienced something traumatic, causing the hint of sorrow that wasn''t there when he ascended.


    Qin Yun watched the distant projectile fly back before he turned his head to look at Meng Huan.


    Meng Huan also looked back at his father.


    At that moment¡ª


    Their gazes met.


    Qin Yun smiled as he said, "Huan''er!"


    "Dad!" Meng Huan''s eyes turned red.


    "It''s really him!" The woman and man beside widened their eyes.


    "The father that Junior Brother Meng Huan has always been searching for is this mysterious sword immortal?" The woman found it unbelievable.


    The man immediately said with a voice transmission, "Senior Sister, that''s not right. The passage of time in Junior Brother Meng Huan''s homeworld is much faster than our own. By a quick estimate, his father has only spent a few years in our Effulgent Great World after his ascension. He is able to match a Skyimmortal after only a few years? Junior Brother Meng Huan was specially groomed by our Jade Tripod Sect after his ascension and all he has reached is the peak second Firmament."


    "Didn''t he say that his father''s talent is much higher than his?" The woman watched the duo. "He still maintains his mortality but has strength that matches that of a Skyimmortal. This father of our junior brother¡­ is just too mysterious."


    ¡­


    "Dad, where did you go after you ascended to the Effulgent Great World?" asked Meng Huan anxiously. "I inquired at the Ascension Platform but could not find you. I searched for news about all the powerful Essence Souls in the world but to no avail. I even requested the help of my sect''s Skyimmortal to divine your location but you could not be found."


    Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan and secretly felt ashamed.


    Back then, he had told his son that they could meet again after his son ascended as a form of encouragement.


    But in fact, he had returned to the Great Chang world.


    "I will explain everything after we leave this place," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Meng Huan nodded. He was obviously very obedient towards his father.


    "By the way, this is my senior brother and senior sister from my Jade Tripod Sect." Meng Huan immediately introduced the man and woman beside him. The two immediately bowed. "Greetings, Senior."


    Their junior brother''s mysterious father¡­ had strength that matched that of a Skyimmortal after only a few years of ascension. What else could he accomplish in the future?


    Basically, he was an existence that they could only look up to.


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan''s talent is a lot higher than ours. He has an even more terrifying father. He will definitely be eminent in the future. Sigh, why don''t I have such a powerful father?" thought the man.


    Meanwhile, by this point in time, many of the battles on the battlefield had ceased.


    The batch of natural treasures had all been snatched clean.


    Whoosh.


    Three streams of light flew over from afar. They were three third Firmament Essence Souls from the Jade Tripod Sect.


    "Greetings fellow Daoist, I''m Jade Tripod Sect''s Xue Yun (Bai Yigu, Pei Chao)." The trio was very cordial and they looked at Qin Yun with eyes full of kind intentions. After all, they had already seen that his strength matched that of a Skyimmortal. He was stronger than them.


    "Greetings, fellow Daoists from the Jade Tripod Sect, I''m Meng Yiqiu." Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan and said, "Meng Huan is my son. I only learned that he entered the Jade Tripod Sect today."


    "Haha, we have often heard how much he wished to find his father," said an azure-robed man with a laugh. His smile towards Meng Huan also turned more genial.


    "Congratulations, Junior Brother Meng," Xue Yun and Bai Yigu said with a smile as well.


    Meng Huan felt overly flattered.


    All three of them were among the best third Firmament Essence Soul disciples in the Jade Tripod Sect. They had a chance of surviving the Heavenly Tribulations to become Skyimmortals if they continued cultivating well.


    Therefore, typical Essence Soul disciples only looked up to them.


    The three of them had never paid him much attention in the past!

 403 Reporting the Matter

    Chapter 403: Reporting the Matter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Xue Yun, Yigu, you might not understand Junior Brother Meng''s situation but I''m quite aware of it." Pei Chao sent a voice transmission to his fellow disciples. "His homeworld has low amounts of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies and it''s impossible to condense an Essence Soul. He only joined our Jade Tripod Sect a few years ago after his ascension. Furthermore, he requested the help of our sect''s Skyimmortal to divine his father''s location. According to him, his father had ascended himself and it had only happened several years ago."


    Xue Yun and Bai Yigu were alarmed. "He ascended just years ago?"


    "Yes, he only ascended years ago. I believe the both of you know what that means," said Pei Chao in his voice transmission.


    "He has such strength after such a short period of time?" Xue Yun found it unbelievable.


    "That''s terrifying." Bai Yigu shuddered.


    "He can match a Skyimmortal in such a short period of time. It''s almost certain that he can reach the fourth Firmament Skyimmortal realm! It''s even possible for him to reach the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm," said Pei Chao with a voice transmission.


    "Yes." Xue Yun and Bai Yigu were both astounded.


    The nine Firmaments of the Skyimmortal realm were demarcated into three major sub-realms. Every third Firmament was a huge step up.


    The first three Firmaments were the most commonly seen. Ninety-nine percent of Skyimmortals were in the first three Firmaments. But to reach the fourth Firmament Skyimmortal realm, the difficulty was in no way less than how a Connate Golden Core reached the Essence Soul realm! As for the fourth to sixth Firmaments, they were relatively easy. All it took was time and effort.


    For a sixth Firmament Skyimmortal to reach the seventh Firmament, it was extremely difficult as well. The difficulty was in no way less than an Essence Soul surviving the Heavenly Tribulation to become a Skyimmortal.


    Those third Firmaments were huge barriers to entry.


    For instance, as a top sect in the Effulgent Great World, the Jade Tripod Sect had thousands of Skyimmortals. But the only ones that reached the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm were Sect Master Jade Tripod and its Dao Protector.


    The seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm¡­


    It was sufficient to make one a hegemon of an area! Even in the Three Realms, one that wreaked havoc would be a powerful fiend. For instance, some might grasp particularly powerful divine powers or have powerful Connate Numinous treasures. They posed serious threats. Exalted Immortal Nine Raven, who died in the Ancient Augury World, had relied on his Connate Numinous treasure to match Golden Immortals and Buddhas. It would be difficult for the Heavenly Courts even if they wanted to send heavenly generals and soldiers to slay the fiends and rid evil.


    As for Golden Immortals? Buddhas? Ancestral Dragons? Ancestral Magi? Existences at the mighty figure levels?


    The magus lineage might be weaker than the Buddhist and Daoist schools of thought, but it was a heritage that proliferated the Three Realms. There were a total of ten who had reached the Ancestral Magus realm! They were labeled the Ten Magi.


    As for the dragons, they were an extremely powerful species in every corner of the endless cosmos of the Three Realms. They occupied the oceans of countless worlds, but no more than ten had reached the Ancestral Dragon realm!


    It was evident how rare mighty figures were!


    There were just too few of them!


    For many Skyimmortals, it would be quite a feat to meet a single Golden Immortal throughout their entire lives.


    Xue Yun, Bai Yigu, and Pei Chao did not dare imagine Qin Yun as a Golden Immortal! But if he reached the seventh Firmament Skyimmortal realm, he could become an overlord! He would also gain the chance of being recruited as an official of the Heavenly Courts. Perhaps, he might be able to attend the teachings of the Dao Ancestor or Buddhist Ancestor. Even in a Great World¡­ he could become the leader of a top sect.


    An existence at such a level was enough to make the trio look up to him instantly.


    The way they looked at Qin Yun naturally turned fervent. He might become a huge powerhouse that shook the Three Realms in the future! It was naturally best to build ties with him.


    "Daoist Yiqiu," a blue-robed Xue Yun said with a smile. "You came just in time. Although the Ancient Augury World has many treasures, it is also very dangerous. It''s not easy obtaining a good number of Numinous treasures. So this treasure pagoda appearing is an exceedingly rare opportunity. If we can crack the pagoda''s seal, we can obtain many treasures. With your strength, and the three of us to complement you, we might obtain a lot of treasures."


    "Yes," echoed Pei Chao immediately. "There are three other Essence Souls present with strength that matches the Skyimmortal realm apart from yourself. They are Senior Brother Yu from the Golden Light Sect, Magus God Jian from the Magus Gate, and the Illusion Fiend Sect''s Jade Fiendlord. Senior Brother Yu is also a Daoist so we can join forces. That way, we can obtain more treasures."


    "Yes, yes. Daoist Yiqiu, you will be the core and we will naturally work with you by complimenting you," said Bai Yigu.


    The trio could be considered only ordinary among the numerous third Firmament Essence Souls across the many factions. After all, everyone that came to the Ancient Augury World was an elite of a top faction.


    The most conspicuous ones were Senior Brother Yu and Magus God Jian, as well as Jade Fiendlord.


    Now, there was an additional Skyimmortal combat force! Naturally, more treasures could be obtained as a result.


    "Sure." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    He naturally would not give up the chance to get treasures.


    "Since I''ve just met Huan''er, let me have a chat with him," said Qin Yun.


    "No rush." Xue Yun smiled as he looked at the distant treasure pagoda. A group of Essence Souls were striking it repeatedly in a bid to crack the higher levels of the pagoda as soon as possible. "They will need at least five minutes to crack it."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Dad, you ascended earlier than me. Why did you convert your cultivation to a sword immortal Dharmic formulation?" Meng Huan could not help but ask. "I''ve heard that it is impossible for sword immortal Dharmic formulations to condense an Essence Soul."


    "Haha, Junior Brother Meng you know little, which is expected since it''s been a short time since you''ve ascended," said Pei Chao with a smile. "It''s indeed widespread knowledge that sword immortal Dharmic formulations reach their limit at the Connate Golden Core realm. But in fact, legends speak of a sword immortal heritage that was created by one of our Daoist''s Three Pure Ones, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. That is a heritage that can truly be considered to destroy all Dharma with a single sword! However, to train under the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage is extremely difficult. However, with Daoist Yiqiu''s talent, he must have obtained that heritage." As he spoke, he gave Qin Yun a fawning smile.


    From his point of view, a person who ascended to their world would never convert their cultivation to the sword immortal Dharmic formulation that lacked potential. One would only convert after obtaining the Dharmic formulations of the Grand Supreme lineage.


    Besides, Qin Yun''s talent was exceedingly monstrous.


    "I''m not from the Grand Supreme lineage," said Qin Yun. He had no intention of hiding the truth.


    "Not¡­" The trio was taken aback.


    "There is no need to delve into the details." As Qin Yun spoke, he brought Meng Huan to the side. He even isolated the two of them with his Dao domain before speaking with his son.


    "Strange."


    Pei Chao and company were puzzled.


    "He''s not from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage?" Pei Chao was baffled. "Then, why did he cultivate to be a sword immortal?"


    "He''s naturally no fool, considering how he has the strength of a Skyimmortal. There must be more to it," said Xue Yun.


    "It might be a huge secret," said Bai Yigu.


    "We have to report the situation regarding Meng Yiqiu to the sect," said Pei Chao through a voice transmission. "After all, he matches a Skyimmortal just years after his ascension. If he didn''t get recruited into the Grand Supreme lineage, our Primordial Beginning lineage should recruit him. If we succeed, we would be rewarded as well."


    "Oh?" Xue Yun and Bai Yigu''s eyes lit up as they nodded immediately.


    Immediately, they began contacting their sect through their transmission treasures to report the matter in detail.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Meng Huan were isolated within his Dao domain.


    Meng Huan could not help but say, "Dad, our homeworld''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are thin and our cultivation Dharmic formulations are extremely weak. Without Dharmic formulations to cultivate talisman amulets or Dharma spells, or any Dharma treasure refinements available, it''s very easy for us to convert our crude cultivation Dharmic formulations. Why did you convert to a sword immortal Dharmic formulation? Did an expert pass you his teachings?"


    Qin Yun looked at his son.


    The second homeworld he experienced in the dream of a hundred years was indeed very weak.


    They fought with melee weapons in close combat! Dharma treasures? Talisman amulets? Flying swords and sword immortals? There were no such things!


    They did not even have any Dharmic formulations that were considered powerful. Although the Dharmic powers were weak, they still had a chance of reaching the Connate Golden Core realm! But even so, one had to step into the Dao just to condense the most ordinary Connate Golden Core in that world. As for a purplish-gold Golden Core, that was impossible even in one''s wildest dreams!


    But¡­


    It was a double-edged sword.


    It was because that world''s Dharmic formulations were so weak that one was easily able to convert their cultivations to that of a top Dharmic formulation after their ascension. Meng Huan entered the Jade Tripod Sect and naturally converted to the top Dharmic formulation the Jade Tripod Sect provided.


    As for Qin Yun, his sword immortal Dharmic powers were extremely pure, making it impossible to convert his cultivation.


    "There are too many people here. It''s not appropriate to go into detail now. I''ll tell you more after we leave the Ancient Augury World." Qin Yun immediately asked, "By the way, tell me what happened in the years that followed after my ascension."


    "Yes." Meng Huan nodded. "Mother and Aunt passed away a few decades after you ascended since they did not reach the Connate realm."


    "Yuxiang and Yan''er?" Qin Yun felt mixed emotions.

 404 Vying

    Chapter 404: Vying


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Meng Yuxiang was his younger sister in that world. Gong Yan''er was his son, Meng Huan''s, birth mother.


    Although his relationships with them were not as close as the one with his son, he did develop some affection for them after frequently spending fifty years with them.


    "Dad, Mom and Aunt went peacefully. They left no regrets behind," said Meng Huan.


    "Yes. Life, illness, and death are common." Qin Yun nodded. "Only by shattering the void and ascending can a person detach themselves from that. Few can do that, however. By the way, what happened to those three grandchildren of mine?"


    "There''s five now."


    "Five¡­"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    Back when he ascended, Meng Huan only had three children. But now he had five?


    "Dad, I had another two after your ascension." Meng Huan smiled before he continued, "The fifth one has the highest talent. Before I ascended, he finally stepped into the Dao after cultivating for slightly more than two hundred years. With our Meng family''s teachings, he is fully able to support the family going forward. Only after knowing that was I at ease with shattering the void and ascending."


    "What about the rest?" asked Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    The father and son had a casual chat.


    They talked about many people, including the disciples that Qin Yun took in back then. Qin Yun was also rather concerned about the fates of his senior brother, Zuo Tang, as well as his good friends.


    Before they could finish their conversation, the three disciples from the Jade Tripod Sect flew over. They looked rather anxious. "Daoist Yiqiu."


    Qin Yun immediately understood the reason. He shot a glance at the distant pagoda. The array formation that sealed the fourth floor was already in shambles and was unlikely to last much longer.


    "We have to rush over quickly. If we delay any further, all the treasures will be snatched clean," said Pei Chao with a voice transmission.


    "I understand. Huan''er, follow me. As for your two fellow disciples, they can join you." Qin Yun glanced at the woman in azure clothes and the thin man.


    "Thank you, Senior." The woman and man were immediately delighted. If Qin Yun only brought his son with him, it would be problematic for them to form a combat formation with only the two of them.


    Phew!


    Xue Yun, Bai Yigu, and Pei Chao followed without a word.


    The group rapidly flew towards the pagoda.


    Many Essence Souls from the various top sects looked over. Although it was easier to get treasures the closer one was to the pagoda, it was also more dangerous!


    "The Jade Tripod Sect sure got lucky."


    "To think they found such a helper."


    "I wonder what he experienced for him to be this strong."


    Many warriors mumbled inwardly.


    Qin Yun and company rapidly flew towards the pagoda, causing the group of Essence Souls nearest to the pagoda to desperately attack the array seals.


    "Rumble!" The pagoda quivered with a rumbling boom. The Dharma treasures hanging from the fourth floor''s awnings transformed into streams of light that flew in every direction. All of them were transcendent-grade Dharma treasures.


    "Hmph!"


    Magus God Jian wielded a spear that he threw to snatch the treasures. Although the magi lineage was relatively weak, Jian had a strength that matched that of a Skygod or Skyfiend. He naturally could hold his own when it came to snatching treasures.


    And the other two experts with Skyimmortal or Skyfiend strength had many companions. All of them frantically took action.


    "Hurry!"


    Xue Yun, Bai Yigu, and Pei Chao were alarmed.


    But they were just a little too slow.


    "Go." Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip. Instantly, it tunneled into the void and vanished. When it appeared again, it swept up two streams of Dharma treasure light before sweeping forward for a third.


    "Help Daoist Yiqiu." Xue Yun and company immediately employed their techniques.


    Qin Yun hid a Dao talisman and the Green Leaf Flying Sword in his sleeve.


    After his Sword Dao reached the Skyimmortal realm, the might of the Green Leaf Flying Sword increased massively. Just the casting of the Cyclic Sword Flash was enough to fend off figures like Jian or Jade Fiendlord. He was rather confident in that.


    As for forcing Qin Yun to defend with his Intrinsic Flying Sword? No one present was qualified!


    ¡­


    It was not easy for Qin Yun to obtain even one inferior-grade Numinous treasure in the Ancient Augury World. Therefore, he definitely needed to do his best to grab the numerous treasures in the pagoda.


    Once he finished gathering treasures, Qin Yun planned on returning to the Great Chang world.


    After all, he had gathered enough treasures! Xiaoxiao''s situation was still an unknown. It was more dangerous the longer he delayed. Furthermore, he had seen his son in the Ancient Augury World. He was already very satisfied.


    ******


    The contention for treasures in the Ancient Augury World continued.


    In the Jade Tripod Sect.


    The sect was created by Perfected Jade Tripod, one of the twelve Golden Immortals under Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning of the Daoist Three Pure Ones.


    The twelve Golden Immortals were extremely famous in the Three Realms. They also held high levels of seniority, such as Perfected Primordial Unity, Daoist Benevolence, Perfected Kindred¡­ Furthermore, they also studied the Buddhist way, making them extremely impressive throughout the Three Realms. Although Perfected Jade Tripod kept a low profile, his combat strength was frightening! They even thought nothing of the Heavenly Courts. After all, they were personal disciples that Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning took in before anyone else. Back when they were known by all in the Three Realms, the Heavenly Courts had yet to be established! Only from the third-generation did disciples of the Primordial Beginning lineage take up positions in the Heavenly Courts! Many of them were generals that held a lot of power in the Heavenly Courts!


    "Senior Brother Sect Master." A fat, big-eared Daoist stepped across the void and arrived at the side of a lotus pond.


    In the middle of the pond, a tiny man lay sound asleep on a lotus leaf.


    "Senior Brother Sect Master, wake up!" The fat Daoist shouted loudly. His voice generated shockwaves that radiated outwards.


    "Wu¡ª"


    The tiny man, who was about the size of a finger, got up in shock. When he saw the fat Daoist a distance away, he took a step, causing his body to rapidly enlarge to the size of a normal person. He was a goateed Daoist. As he walked to the pondside, he said, "Junior Brother, if you don''t have something extremely important to tell me, I''ll definitely not spare you for disturbing my dream cultivation."


    "Dream cultivation?" The fat Daoist curled his lips. "To think you have the shame to call it cultivation. Who knows what things are going on in your dreams?"


    "What do you know about cultivating in a dream?" snorted the goateed Daoist.


    "You are an eighth Firmament Skyimmortal while I''m only at the sixth level. You can say anything you want," said the fat Daoist. "Oh right, let''s talk about something more pressing."


    "Go ahead." The goateed Daoist sat cross-legged and, with a flip of his hand, made two flasks of gourmet wine appear. He threw one flask to the fat Daoist and drank the other.


    "Thank you." The fat Daoist lifted the alcohol flask delightfully. He opened his mouth as the alcohol flew out of the flask''s mouth into his. As he drank it happily, he shook his head and said, "I have news sent to us by our disciples. They were going on about a mortal sword immortal among the cultivators in the Ancient Augury World trial. He has strength that reaches the Skyimmortal realm."


    "A mortal sword immortal that matches a Skyimmortal?" The goateed Daoist was puzzled. "Is he from the Grand Supreme lineage of sword immortals?"


    "He''s not from the Grand Supreme lineage," said the fat Daoist. "That person denied it personally."


    "Oh?"


    The goateed Daoist was baffled. "A reincarnated Skyimmortal? That''s impossible! Skyimmortals have eternal youth. If they choose to reincarnate, a senior from his sect or a good friend would be in charge of guiding them. It would be impossible for him to choose a sword immortal Dharmic formulation."


    "The person''s name is Meng Yiqiu. His homeworld has thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies which makes it impossible to condense an Essence Soul," added the fat Daoist. "Just years after his ascension, his strength has reached that of a Skyimmortal''s. Such a rate of cultivation is completely unprecedented. If he is not from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, perhaps he really made a mistake and chose to cultivate the sword immortal Dharmic formulation. I think that with his talent, we should definitely take him into our Primordial Beginning lineage."


    "Although he can''t convert his cultivation, he can definitely be reincarnated! Senior Brother, you can personally guide him and allow him to recall the memories of his previous life before he begins cultivation," said the fat Daoist.


    "His talent is that high?" The goateed Daoist was astounded.


    "The Three Realms are so vast. What sort of figures does it not have?" asked the fat Daoist. "Many of the mighty figures throughout history were already heaven-defying while they were still children."


    The goateed Daoist nodded. "Alright, I''ll take a look. If he catches my eye, I''ll get the Heavenly Courts to delve into his background. If there are no problems with his origins, I can report this to Master and get him to mark him."


    The major factions of the Three Realms would often vie for powerful cultivators.


    There was internal strife for talent even among the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones.


    The Daoists would compete with the Buddhists! So would the Heavenly Courts! Of course, the Fiendcelestial lineage did it too.

 405 Departure

    Chapter 405: Departure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Sou!"


    A flying boat flew through the layers of clouds in the Effulgent Great World. When it passed through the sixth layer of clouds, with billions of electric bolts sparking around, the sight of a massive planet hanging in the distant horizon could be seen.


    A white-dressed young monk sat cross-legged on the boat''s bow. Behind him was an old monk in loose robes holding a thin fan. The old monk chuckled and said, "We have finally arrived in the Ancient Augury World. Tenside, a treasure pagoda has appeared in the Ancient Augury World. There are many Numinous treasures on that pagoda! It''s such a rare opportunity that I had to thicken my skin and request your help despite being your master. You might not care about Numinous treasures, but I''m lacking them. Your Uncle-Masters are also going through a shortage."


    "I got it. If we can make it in time, I will definitely do my best to vie for them." The white-dressed monk opened his eyes, they were extremely calm like the endless starry cosmos. "But Master, these things are only worldly possessions that cause strife. We Buddhists have potent divine powers, and if we dedicate ourselves to cultivating these divine powers, wouldn''t we end up stronger than if we spend our time vying for Numinous treasures? Abbot, didn''t you once say that Numinous treasures are ultimately refined by people? Even if it is refined into one''s heart, it will be far inferior to Intrinsic Dharma Treasures or Intrinsic Divine Powers."


    "Yes, yes, yes. What you say is true," said the old monk immediately. "But Tenside, we still need Dharma treasures to aid in our travels around the world! As for cultivating strong divine powers? It''s difficult to get even a basic grasp of them and it''s even harder to have much success! They''re not so easily cultivated! As for Intrinsic Dharma Treasures, they are rarer than Dharmic formulations. It''s much faster to seek out external Dharma treasures."


    The white-dressed monk nodded and did not say another word.


    Swoosh.


    Although the old monk had rushed there with all his strength, it would still take him more than an hour to arrive at the planet where the Ancient Augury World was.


    There was a palatial complex at the entrance of the Ancient Augury World. Inside it were outposts of many top sects.


    However, there was quite a stir at the moment. Many Skyimmortals, Bodhisattvas, Skygods, Grand Magi, and Skyfiends were gathered there in tiny groups.


    "Look, it''s Thunderclap Monastery''s Arhat Tenside."


    "Arhat Tenside is here too?"


    "Arhat Tenside is said to be one of the best Essence Souls in the entire Effulgent Great World."


    A group of Skygods, Bodhisattvas, and Grand Magi were conversing.


    "Haha¡­" A monk dressed in loose robes descended with a white-dressed young monk. He said with a smile, "My Thunderclap Monastery still has some spots. Tenside, enter quickly."


    "Yes."


    The white-dressed monk took out a Transference Token and instantly triggered it.


    With a whoosh, he vanished.


    "Reverend Miracle Nothingness, why is your luck so good? You went to some small crappy temple and found such a disciple," a Skydragon in golden-scaled armor said with a smile.


    "With just an ordinary Dharma Lotus Sutra, he managed to temper his body into an Arhat Gold Body. When was that ever possible with the Dharma Lotus Sutra?"


    "If Arhat Tenside had not chosen to cultivate in the divine power, ''Buddhist Nation in Palm,'' he would have long reached the Bodhisattva realm."


    Everyone heaped praises on him.


    The Effulgent Great World was a vast world full of countless beings. It was also a gathering point for people from Small Worlds that ascended. It was only natural that there were many cultivation geniuses.


    And Arhat Tenside was one of the best in Thunderclap Monastery. He cultivated in Gautama Buddha''s powerful divine power¡ªBuddhist Nation in Palm! It was extremely difficult to grasp this divine power. One needed to forge their foundations from the very beginning. Although Thunderclap Monastery had many powerful divine powers in its heritage, Arhat Tenside had set his sights on the Buddhist Nation in Palm. He dedicated himself to cultivating it and had already had considerable attainments from it.


    His most famous battle was the one in which he used one palm strike to imprison a Skyfiend in his palm. When he returned to Thunderclap Monastery, he threw the Skyfiend directly into the Fiend Sealing Pagoda.


    He became famous from just one battle! He was publicly recognized as one of the strongest Essence Souls in the Effulgent Great World.


    ******


    Inside the Ancient Augury World, around the pagoda.


    Many Essence Souls were gathered there because the top factions had set rules. Only disciples that attended the trials could vie for the treasures! Every hundred years, there would be a year of ''rest.'' During this period, disciples were forbidden from entering! Also, many large sects would take the initiative to plant some ordinary treasures as they were the most commonly taken ones.


    At the same time, once the disciples had explored most of a certain perilous land, the Skygods, Skyimmortals, and Grand Magi would also attempt to venture in.


    The trial candidates entered at a different time from Skyimmortals and Skygods.


    At that moment¡ª


    Although the pagoda had appeared, the Skyimmortals and Skygods were unable to enter to vie for treasures due to the rules.


    "The number of powerful experts is increasing."


    "There are some that just came to the Ancient Augury World."


    "However, the more experts there are, the faster the seals on the pagoda will be cracked. Now, there''s only one floor left, leaving only three superior-grade Numinous treasures up for grabs."


    All the Essence Souls were discussing the matter.


    As for Qin Yun, he was with Meng Huan watching by the side.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Every party was attacking but, as it was the seal of the final floor, the array formation was the most stable and tricky one.


    "The number of experts is increasing." Qin Yun was very cautious. When the various large factions first learned about the pagoda, it took them time to send people! But with the passage of time, the most elite disciples from the various large factions gradually arrived. Besides Qin Yun, there were now seven Essence Souls that had the strength of a Skygod or Skyfiend!


    It also served as a demonstration of Effulgent Great World''s deep heritage.


    Apart from the seven and Qin Yun, there was someone even stronger. She was none other than Fairy Redjade from the Scenic Jade Palace, who once defeated a Skyfiend head-on!


    "I obtained nine transcendent-grade Dharma treasures, two inferior-grade Numinous treasures, and one medial-grade Numinous treasure." Qin Yun looked at the flying boat, armor set, and golden seal. "The competition for the final superior-grade Numinous treasures is bound to be intense."


    Early on, there were relatively fewer experts. Qin Yun was, after all, one of the four with the combat strength of a Skyimmortal. He held a great advantage.


    Now, with more experts coming in¡­


    Qin Yun did not have much confidence in the final contention for the superior-grade Numinous treasures.


    Finally, under the combined efforts of all the Essence Souls, there was a deep, resonating hum.


    The flying boat, armor set, and golden seal that hung on the top floor of the pagoda''s awning flew in different directions.


    "Superior-grade Numinous treasures."


    "It''s mine."


    Everyone gave their all.


    There was a red divine bird''s phantom behind Fairy Redjade. Flames emanated out as the terrifying inferno changed the expressions of the surrounding Essence Souls drastically! Amid the flames, a rope flew out and quickly wrapped around the superior-grade Numinous treasure that was closest to Fairy Redjade¡ªthe armor set. As the strongest Essence Soul present, no one fought her for the treasure.


    Sou! Sou!


    The contention for the flying boat and the golden seal were a lot more intense.


    As the golden seal flew in close proximity to Qin Yun, he joined in the battle for the golden seal.


    "Chi!"


    Dozens of feathers and lightning bolts clashed in the distance. Among the flurry of attacks, a wisp of misty rain tunneled out of the void, scooping up the golden seal instantly as it quickly fled.


    "Darn it."


    When a man with a bird''s head and a gray-robed elder saw this, they immediately stopped fighting each other and attacked Qin Yun together.


    However, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword was excellent when it came to defense. It managed to put up an impervious defense while rapidly carrying the golden seal to Qin Yun.


    "Hand over the treasure."


    "A mortal like you has no use for a superior-grade Numinous treasure." The bird-headed man and the gray-robed elder had combat strength that matched a Skygod or Skyfiend. They deployed various means to attack Qin Yun himself instead of the sword.


    As for the other experts?


    Apart from the flying boat, golden seal, and the armor set, the treasure pagoda that now sat motionless was also a precious superior-grade Numinous treasure.


    Fairy Redjade snatched the armor set.


    Qin Yun and the other two were contending for the golden seal.


    Two others were vying for the flying boat.


    Another three were vying for the treasure pagoda.


    "Those puny tricks of yours can''t do a thing to me." Qin Yun also employed all means available to him. The Green Leaf Flying Sword cast the Cyclic Sword Flash and his new inferior-grade Numinous treasure, Smoky Five Elements Array, immediately enveloped the area. He even held a Dao talisman at the ready.


    Just stalling for that bit of time allowed for the Misty Rain Sword to carry the golden seal towards him.


    "Retrieve." Qin Yun immediately grabbed the superior-grade Numinous treasure golden seal. He infused his Dharmic powers into it and four words surfaced on it¡ªMinor Empyrean Seal.


    Simultaneously, the Misty Rain Sword transformed into a Cyclic Sword Flash barrier that surrounded him with a thought. Qin Yun felt completely assured of his safety.


    "What?" The bird-headed man and the gray-robed elder were furious and anxious due to that turn of events. However, they had no choice. They immediately turned and headed for the pagoda.


    In just a short moment, the flying boat, armor set, and golden seal had all been claimed.


    Only the pagoda stood its ground, as though it was resistant to being taken.


    "Tenside, it''s mine!" An angry bellow boomed.


    A hand covered in black fur extended from afar. It looked like a column that stretched across the sky, with it being about fifty kilometers long.


    "Naturally, this will be decided by skill." A chuckle sounded as a large, fair palm descended from the clouds. The skin on it appeared crystalline as though it was a Numinous treasure! A blurry world seemed to be contained within the palm.


    In the end, the giant, fair palm was faster.


    Swoosh.


    The other Essence Souls had failed to snatch the pagoda but when the fair palm landed, the runic patterns on the pagoda''s surface stirred. With a creak, as though a carrot was being pulled up, the pagoda was plucked out from the mud.


    "It''s Arhat Tenside and Mt. Ape Fiend''s current Ape Fiend Junior!" people exclaimed.


    Arhat Tenside and Ape Fiend Junior were extremely famous.


    They were people who had been capable of surviving the Heavenly Tribulations a long time ago. However, they wanted their foundations to be totally robust due to their ambitious goals.


    "You were fast! The three of you have no right to own a superior-grade Numinous treasure." Accompanied by a resounding roar, two massive, furry arms hurtled towards Qin Yun and a certain lame Daoist. They had obtained the golden seal and flying boat respectively.


    "Oh?" The lame Daoist''s expression changed. "Time to leave."


    He immediately activated his Transference Token without any hesitation. As the fluctuations descended upon him, it carried him away, causing him to vanish immediately.


    Qin Yun calmly looked at the massive, furry arm that came hurtling towards him. He urged immediately with a voice transmission, "Huan''er, let''s go."


    "Yes, Dad." Meng Huan answered immediately. He immediately activated his Transference Token according to plans they had hatched earlier. He vanished after being transported away.


    "Bam!"


    The gigantic palm grabbed the Cyclic Sword Flash formed by the Misty Rain Sword. It warped and trembled but did not immediately crack.


    "If my Dharmic powers were at the peak third Firmament Essence Soul realm, and my Intrinsic Flying Sword was nurtured to its peak, I would be able to fight him," thought Qin Yun.


    "What? He blocked it?" The armor-plated ape retracted his arm. He was charging forward in a fiery stream of light.


    "Time to leave."


    Qin Yun gave him a glance before activating the Transference Token.


    Sou!


    He disappeared.


    And at that moment¡ª


    The Ancient Augury World''s Roll saw a change in rankings.


    The 92nd place changed to ''Thunderclap Monastery, Arhat Tenside.''


    The 99th place changed to ''Scenic Jade Palace, Qin Yun.''

 406 Identity

    Chapter 406: Identity


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The entrance to the Ancient Augury World was home to many outposts of top sects. Due to the appearance of the pagoda, the place was in quite a stir. A group of Skygods and Skyimmortals were gathered there chatting while waiting.


    "Quick, take a look!"


    "There''s a change in the Roll."


    A Skyimmortal happened to look up and saw the names condensing high in the clouds.


    The Roll listed the top hundred trial candidates over the past hundreds of thousands of years. However, with the passage of time, treasures became harder to obtain! After all, the low-hanging fruits had long been taken. It made it so that the Roll''s rankings changed very slightly in recent years. Typically, there would only be changes at the back of the Roll. To have changes in the top ten was just too difficult.


    And there was no exception this time. The two new names that appeared on the Roll were also placed in the nineties.


    "As expected of Arhat Tenside. It didn''t take long for him to make the Roll."


    "Hey, there''s another person named Qin Yun. Scenic Jade Palace''s Qin Yun?" The Bodhisattvas, Skygods, and Skyimmortals were perplexed. The name was unfamiliar to them.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh¡­


    Following that, many figures appeared.


    There were people like the white-dressed young monk, Arhat Tenside, Qin Yun and Meng Huan, as well as many powerful Essence Souls that had obtained a bountiful harvest.


    Many of them had rushed into the Ancient Augury World for the treasure pagoda! Since the contest for the pagoda was over, everyone teleported away.


    As for the Mt. Ape Fiend''s current Ape Fiend Junior, he had not obtained anything after entering. Therefore, he remained inside as he was in no rush to leave.


    The fan-wielding Reverend Miracle Nothingness shouted immediately, "My dear disciple!" He had a rather pleased look after waiting in anticipation.


    Arhat Tenside looked at his master as the corner of his lips curled slightly upwards. He smiled before flying obediently over.


    "My dear disciple, heeding my advice proved to be a wise choice, isn''t that so? The appearance of a treasure pagoda is a truly rare event. Just a brief trip and you obtained a powerful Numinous treasure." Reverend Miracle Nothingness smiled as he scanned his surroundings.


    "That Miracle Nothingness is feeling so smug that his beard seems to be flying up."


    "All he did was bring a good disciple. It''s not like the success had anything to do with him."


    "If I had such a good disciple, I would also have obtained a powerful Numinous treasure."


    A group of old friends quipped.


    "Brother Ye, where''s your Scenic Jade Palace''s Qin Yun? He''s ranked on the Roll, and not far from Thunderclap Monastery''s Arhat Tenside."


    "That''s right. Brother Ye, who is Qin Yun?"


    People inquired out of curiosity.


    The silver-haired Skyimmortal felt a little embarrassed, but he maintained a delighted look on the surface. At the same time, he swept his gaze and found the distant Qin Yun and Meng Huan.


    Scenic Jade Palace disciple?


    He knew very well that Qin Yun was an outsider that borrowed one of the Scenic Jade Palace''s allocated spots. Of course, their Scenic Jade Palace gained some fame as a result, winning a spot on the Roll.


    "Qin Yun." The silver-haired Skyimmortal sent a voice transmission. "Go to Scenic Jade Garden and have a rest first. After all the disciples are out, I will bring all of you back to the Scenic Jade Palace. Of course, you can choose to leave alone but I cannot escort you if you do. Now that you have lots of treasures, it''s best if a senior escorts you."


    Qin Yun turned to look into the distance.


    A silver-haired Skyimmortal was being surrounded by a cluster of Skygods and Skyimmortals.


    "Alright, I will think of a way to return," replied Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "Okay." The silver-haired Skyimmortal nodded and said with a voice transmission. "Don''t be in a rush to leave the Ancient Augury World. We should have a good talk later in private."


    "Sure." Qin Yun replied. He also had many things to discuss with his son. He planned on returning to the Great Chang world after his chat.


    Qin Yun led Meng Huan to the Scenic Jade Garden.


    "Brother Ye, since the Roll has named your Scenic Jade Palace disciple, Qin Yun, he should be out now. Which one is he?" asked someone.


    "That''s right. If you have such a capable disciple, he shouldn''t be completely unheard of."


    "Let us meet him."


    "Haha¡­ he hid quite well." The silver-haired Skyimmortal chuckled but he did not elaborate.


    ¡­


    Scenic Jade Garden was rather exquisite and there were quite a few residential buildings provided for disciples and escorting Elders to rest before and after going into the Ancient Augury World. There were ordinary outer-sect disciples there that were in charge of receiving them.


    In a particular compound, Qin Yun and Meng Huan sat around a stone table.


    "Dad, try this." Meng Huan took out some fine wine and cups before pouring a cup for Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun smiled as he watched his son pour him a cup. He was in a great mood.


    He raised the cup and took a sip.


    "How is it?" Meng Huan looked at his father in anticipation. It was a fine wine that he had prepared for this occasion a long time ago.


    "Great wine," said Qin Yun with a smile. A fine wine only made his drinking mood better!


    "Huan''er, it wasn''t suitable for me to tell you in detail while we were vying for treasures in the Ancient Augury World," said Qin Yun. "But are you puzzled as to why I cultivate in a sword immortal Dharmic formulation?"


    Meng Huan nodded immediately.


    Meng Huan, who appeared rather aloof in front of most people, was extremely obedient in front of Qin Yun.


    "That''s because I''m actually a cultivator from another world," said Qin Yun.


    Meng Huan was taken aback.


    "What do you call your homeworld?" Qin Yun followed up with a question.


    "The Effulgent Great World has no records of it, perhaps because there are too few who ascend from it. I call it the Frost World," said Meng Huan.


    "Frost World?" Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Frost Sword Meng Yiqiu¡­


    "Dad, what do you mean you are a cultivator from another world?" pressed Meng Huan.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "I''m a cultivator from the Great Chang world. It''s a Small World similar to the Frost World. However, its Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are richer and there are more cultivation Dharmic formulations. We also have people at the Skyimmortal and Skygod level. As for me, I was originally an itinerant cultivator that cultivated in a sword immortal Dharmic formulation! Later, I obtained an opportunity to dream for a hundred years. In that dream, I reincarnated into two worlds. I spent several decades in the Frost World as a result."


    "Therefore, Meng Yiqiu is one of my reincarnated identities." Qin Yun looked at his son.


    "Reincarnated?" Meng Huan was enlightened.


    "One''s memories remain buried upon reincarnation; therefore, the cultivation speed is relatively slow. Later on, I got poisoned, awakening my memories," said Qin Yun with a smile. "This awakening healed me of my poison and from then on, I improved by leaps and bounds! By practicing the Frost Sword, my Sword Dao also improved greatly. As for my shattering the void and ascension, it is because my opportunity to dream a hundred years allowed me to grow stronger and return to the Great Chang world."


    Qin Yun deliberately concealed certain parts of his experience.


    In fact, he had descended at the moment Meng Yiqiu was on the brink of dying from the poison.


    However, he used the explanation of reincarnation to make it easier for his son to understand.


    Also¡­


    Strictly speaking, Meng Huan was Qin Yun''s adopted son! But although he was adopted, he had taught him since he was a baby. Over that fifty years, their relationship grew extremely deep.


    If Qin Yun did not reveal the truth of his dream, no one would know the secret!


    In that case, there was no need for him to mention it.


    "It''s no wonder." Meng Huan was enlightened. "Countless people praise you for your achievements in our homeworld. When your biography was made, it mentioned how you were only considered an ordinary genius before your poisoning. However, it was as though you had remade yourself after the poison, with nothing stopping you. You rose from just entering the Connate realm to being first on the God roll. You even shattered the void and ascended in just a few decades."


    "Even if there was a setback, such a sudden improvement is indeed unfathomable. So it''s because you regained your past life''s memories."


    He could fully understand the circumstances after his ascension.


    It was not easy for reincarnated immortals to regain their memories. Many would lead mediocre lives, never to awaken. They would lose themselves in Samsara. Only extremely powerful ones or those that were greatly stimulated could awaken.


    Of course, some Skyimmortals could request powerful existences to help awaken them.


    Why would Skyimmortals request the help of seniors and good friends?


    That was because without guidance, it was very possible that the reincarnated Skyimmortals would never awaken.


    "That''s right." Qin Yun nodded. "Because of the dream of a hundred years, I returned to my body in the Great Chang world! And since I''m unable to change my sword immortal Dharmic formulation, I''m still a sword immortal."


    "Then what should you do? Mortals only have a five-hundred-year lifespan. Father, how long have you lived? How many years do you have left?" asked Meng Huan worriedly. If his father''s remaining lifespan was short, it would be problematic.


    From his point of view, his father''s strength matched that of a Skyimmortal. It was likely that he had lived for too long a period of time.


    "If I do not count the dream of a hundred years, a few decades. There''s still a lot of time," said Qin Yun.


    "A few decades?" Meng Huan gasped and was secretly alarmed. His father''s talent was indeed tens, if not a hundred times, higher than his!


    ¡­


    As the father and son chatted, two figures appeared above the Ancient Augury World.


    "Senior Brother Sect Master, I have already inquired with a voice transmission. Meng Huan and his father, Meng Yiqiu have transported out of the Ancient Augury World. They are currently in the Scenic Jade Palace''s outpost, Scenic Jade Garden," said a fat Daoist.


    A goateed Daoist nodded slightly. "That''s Scenic Jade Garden. Let''s meet Meng Yiqiu."


    The two rapidly flew downwards.

 407 Invitation

    Chapter 407: Invitation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As they flew down, they felt a terrifying aura.


    "Oh?" The goateed Daoist and fat Daoist turned their heads.


    The Bodhisattvas, Skyimmortals, and Skygods beneath them also turned their heads up to look east.


    A glaring red beam of light flew over from the east!


    It streaked across half the sky.


    "What powerful Sword Qi." The goateed Daoist had raised brows. This newcomer''s strength was in no way weaker than his.


    "Who is it?" The Skyimmortals and Bodhisattvas beneath him were alarmed. The Sword Qi seemed to permeate tens of thousand of kilometers, leaving all the experts in the Ancient Augury World feeling repressed.


    Swoosh.


    The red light dispersed, revealing a figure above the Ancient Augury World. It was a black-robed man with piercing crimson brows as sharp as swords. His eyes scanned the area beneath him before he descended in the direction of Scenic Jade Garden. "It''s here. I can sense the existence of an unfamiliar Sword Dao. For a mortal to cultivate to the level of a Skyimmortal as a Sword Dao cultivator, he must belong to my sword immortal lineage."


    "Brother Crimsonhero." The goateed Daoist flew over with the fat Daoist in tow.


    "Sect Master Jade Tripod." The crimson-browed man was somewhat astonished but he smiled and greeted them.


    "Brother Crimsonhero, why did you come to the Ancient Augury World?" The goateed Daoist appeared rather warm.


    Sword Immortal Crimsonhero was very famous. He was a sword immortal at the sixth Firmament Skyimmortal realm! The sword immortal lineage were naturally good at combat. They were known to be able to ''destroy all Dharma with a single sword.'' With his Intrinsic Flying Swords¡­ his strength was in no way inferior to other eighth or ninth Firmament Skyimmortals. Although Sect Master Jade Tripod held a high status, his strength was not much different from Crimsonhero''s.


    Furthermore, it was well-known by many that it was best not to provoke the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage! Almost all of them were combative.


    It was very common for them to jump into a fight with someone levels stronger than them!


    "The Ancient Augury World is only a land of trials. It''s also odd for the sect master of the Jade Tripod Sect to be here," said Crimsonhero with a smile. "Are you also here for Meng Yiqiu?"


    "Brother Crimsonhero, you sure are well-informed," said the goateed Daoist. "I am indeed here for him."


    "Then, shall we wait together?" Crimsonhero was rather confident.


    The sword cultivation line created by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor¡­


    It was the only sword immortal Dharmic formulation in the Three Realms. Crimsonhero was very confident that it would attract Meng Yiqiu''s interest.


    As for the mortal-grade sword immortal Dharmic formulations, they were only for mortals, not something that could truly be deemed as a profound cultivation Dharmic formulation.


    "Alright." The goateed Daoist smiled and appeared rather calm.


    ******


    Moments later, Qin Yun and Meng Huan saw the few people standing outside the tiny compound.


    Although Meng Huan was a Jade Tripod Sect disciple, he had never seen the sect master before.


    "Qin Yun, this is Jade Tripod Sect''s sect master. This is Sword Immortal Crimsonhero. This is Jade Tripod Sect''s Hall Master Ge," introduced the silver-haired Skyimmortal.


    "Greetings Sect Master Jade Tripod, Sword Immortal Crimsonhero and Hall Master Ge." Qin Yun bowed, appearing neither overly humble or arrogant. He had met Puqu Dragonlord and even Amitabha Buddha, a person ranked in the top three of the Buddhist school of thought, before.


    "Greetings Sect Master." Meng Huan felt a little alarmed as he bowed immediately.


    He was a Jade Tripod Sect disciple after all!


    The goateed Daoist nodded at Meng Huan with a smile before looking back at Qin Yun. "Meng Yiqiu?"


    "I am Meng Yiqiu as well." Qin Yun nodded.


    "I happened to chance upon Brother Crimsonhero. We came to the Ancient Augury World for you," said the goateed Daoist with a smile. "By the way, you are unlikely a reincarnated Skyimmortal, am I right? A reincarnated Skyimmortal would not be foolish enough to choose the sword immortal lineage unless you were from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage in your previous life."


    If Qin Yun was a reincarnated Skyimmortal, it would mean that he had not cultivated to Skyimmortal-level strength in his mortal lifetime. Instead, his apparent talent would have actually been the result of the foundations he laid in his previous life. That would mean that they did not need to waste their efforts on him.


    After all, there were many ordinary Skyimmortals in the Three Realms.


    "I''m not a reincarnated Skyimmortal," replied Qin Yun.


    "Mortals have five hundred years to live. How long have you been cultivating?" asked Crimsonhero.


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment before saying, "A hundred plus years."


    It was a hundred plus years if he included the dream of a hundred years.


    "A hundred plus years?" The goateed Daoist and Crimsonhero were alarmed. It was shorter than they expected because they knew that Meng Yiqiu had a son! And his son had even ascended.


    "There''s no point in lying. It is a simple feat to investigate your background," said the goateed Daoist.


    "Why would I lie?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    Crimsonhero smiled with a nod. "According to what I know, you are not a disciple of any major sect. I wonder if you are willing to become a sword immortal of the Grand Supreme line? If you are willing to, I will bring your name up to my master. Once your background has been investigated and verified to be true, you can become a disciple of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage."


    "Why even bother cultivating as a sword immortal?" said the goateed Daoist immediately. "The sword immortal lineage was casually created by Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor and it''s certainly no Great Dao! If you are willing to join my Primordial Beginning lineage, you will naturally cultivate in my Primordial Beginning''s Great Dao!"


    "Sect Master Jade Tripod, our sword immortal lineage is nearly invincible against an opponent at the same level," said an irritated Crimsonhero.


    "My Primordial Beginning has numerous Great Dao, many of which are more profound than the sword immortal lineage," said the goateed Daoist confidently. "Even my Jade Tripod lineage''s Eight Nine Mystic Technique is above the sword immortal lineage."


    "Perfected Jade Tripod was one of the twelve Golden Immortals under the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning at the creation of the Universe. He has been cultivating for a very long period of time," said Crimsonhero with growing irritation. "Our sword immortal lineage might have come into existence later but the truth of who is stronger when comparing Master and Uncle-Master to Perfected Jade Tripod is still unknown! Besides, with time, my sword immortal lineage will only become more powerful. And how many have mastered your Jade Tripod lineage''s Eight Nine Mystic Technique, exactly? You have not mastered it even as a eighth Firmament Skyimmortal, right?"


    The goateed Daoist brushed off the slight as he said with a smile, "Flexibility is best. My perception is still lacking so naturally my attainments are limited. However, my Primordial Beginning lineage has many Dharmic formulations. There is bound to be one that suits our young friend Qin Yun. By joining my Primordial Beginning lineage, the Great Dao will bow before him!"


    The silver-haired Skyimmortal by the side could not help but feel envious.


    Two big shots were actually here for Qin Yun.


    And the main reason for that was Qin Yun had demonstrated sufficiently stunning talent. For him to enter the Skyimmortal realm in such a short period of time meant that he had limitless promise.


    "Amazing." Meng Huan was feeling both astounded and happy as he watched from the side. "Back when I ascended, I had to undergo several tests just to join the Jade Tripod Sect as an ordinary disciple. But Dad¡­ is now being fought over by Sect Master and another mysterious Grand Supreme lineage sword immortal."


    "Seniors."


    Qin Yun immediately stopped the duo.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and Crimsonhero looked at Qin Yun hopefully.


    "To be honest, I come from the Great Chang world," said Qin Yun. "My Great Chang world is a Small World and Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor had once descended using his avatar to preach the Dao in my Great Chang world."


    "Ah." Sect Master Jade Tripod and Crimsonhero were taken aback.


    "There are countless Small Worlds. Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s avatar actually preached the Dao in the Great Chang world?" Sect Master Jade Tripod felt a little disappointed.


    Although Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was well known to be indiscriminate in his teachings, and had sent a large number of avatars to preach the Dao in numerous Small Worlds, there were just too many Small Worlds. There were still a large number of Small Worlds that he had yet to visit!


    "What a coincidence." Crimsonhero frowned. "If Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor had preached the Dao, it means that the Great Chang world is from the Numinous Treasure lineage."


    Sect Master Jade Tripod felt a headache as well.


    Crimsonhero took out a wooden talisman and handed it to Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, this is my contact talisman! When your life comes to an end and you wish to be reincarnated, seek me out. My Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage can directly guide you! Although you are from the Numinous Treasure lineage in this life, that karma will be severed after reincarnation. You will then be unrelated to the Numinous Treasure lineage. When that time comes, you can join my Grand Supreme lineage."


    "That''s right. But you could also consider joining my Primordial Beginning lineage," said Sect Master Jade Tripod with a chuckle. He also handed Qin Yun a bronze talisman. "This is my contact talisman. With my strength, I can find you while you are still a baby. I can even help you recall the memories of your past life."


    Qin Yun took the two contact talismans. "Thank you, Seniors."


    ¡­


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and Sword Immortal Crimsonhero then quickly departed. Qin Yun also handed the Transference Token back to the silver-haired Skyimmortal.


    Finally, Qin Yun also began to bid farewell to his son.


    "Huan''er, I''ll be returning to the Great Chang world. If you wish to find me, just trigger this contact talisman." Qin Yun looked at his son. He had reached the Skyimmortal realm and a single strike of his could create a Grotto-heaven. His grasp of the void had reached a brand new state, not much inferior to that of East Sea Skydragon and the rest. Just a contact talisman as a spatial label was enough for him to sense the distant Effulgent Great World.


    "Okay." Meng Huan nodded. "Dad, when can you come again?"


    "Almost anytime," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Alright, you have already embarked onto the path of cultivation. Is there anything you still can''t leave behind?"


    Meng Huan gave a gentle nod.


    Meng Huan also felt relieved after learning his father''s situation.


    "Open!"


    In the tiny yard, a wisp of misty sword beam streaked across the void from Qin Yun''s fingertip.


    Boom!


    With the enhancement of his Dao realm, there was no need for him to use a Void Altar. Just the Dharma treasures he had left in the Qin family manor were enough for him to sense his homeworld.


    "Rumble." A void passageway tore apart as Qin Yun constantly unleashed his sword arts to open it up wider.


    The silver-haired Skyimmortal watched nearby.


    As the Great Effulgent World was very far from his homeworld, it took Qin Yun quite a while for him to stabilize the void passageway with his present strength.


    "I''m leaving." Qin Yun smiled at Meng Huan.


    "Okay." Meng Huan watched as his father''s figure vanished into the void passageway. He could not help but feel a little downtrodden. He watched in a daze for a long while.


    "It''s not like you will never meet again," said the silver-haired Skyimmortal.


    "Yes. Elder Ye, you are right. I''ll be returning for now." Meng Huan bowed immediately and left the Scenic Jade Garden and returned to his Jade Tripod Sect''s outpost.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun proceeded through the void passageway a lot easier this time. Although it constantly narrowed, he was able to continue forward steadily with his newfound strength as he opened it further to stabilize it. This was the benefit of having sufficient strength.


    Finally.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun came through the void passageway and entered a world. The familiar Heaven Earth Essence Qi fluctuations told Qin Yun that he had returned to his homeworld, the Great Chang world.


    "Xiaoxiao, just wait a little longer. I will be saving you very soon." Qin Yun was greatly looking forward to saving his wife, Yi Xiao.

 408 Meeting Puqu Dragonlord Again Final Chapter of Volume

    Upon entering the Great Chang world, Qin Yun arrived in a hall. He surveyed his surroundings and immediately saw the Void Altar.


    "Qin Yun, you returned so quickly?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice sounded in Qin Yun''s ears. Following that, the door to the hall was pushed open to reveal Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "The sooner I return, the sooner I can rescue Xiaoxiao," replied Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    While Qin Yun had left the Effulgent Great World without any qualms, something else happened in the Lianyang Lake Dragon Palace in the Effulgent Great World.


    Dragon King Lianyang was sitting on his throne watching a dancing performance in the hall when he suddenly sensed something. With a thought, he isolated his surroundings and took out his transmission treasure.


    Hum!


    The phantom of a red-haired Daoist in red robes appeared in front of him.


    "You old dragon king, you requested my help in getting a spot but actually sent someone so powerful. Why didn''t you tell me ahead of time?" said the red-robed Daoist with a stare.


    "Brother Fire Refinement, what''s the matter?" asked Dragon King Lianyang, immediately confused.


    "My Scenic Jade Palace disciples recently headed for the Ancient Augury World, and you asked for a spot from me, correct? You sent someone called Qin Yun, remember?" pressed the red-robed Daoist.


    "Yes, yes, yes." Dragon King Lianyang nodded. "It was a junior brother of my Dragon race that requested my help. Back when we studied in our sect, we had quite a good relationship. I couldn''t ignore his request, and so helped him send that cultivator. Why? Did something happen?"


    The red-robed Daoist stared and said, "You old dragon king, don''t you know that the mortal named Qin Yun¡­ has long reached the Skyimmortal realm?"


    "What?" Dragon King Lianyang asked immediately. "No, I never heard that! My junior brother did not mention it. He only said that he had strength at the peak Third Firmament Essence Soul realm."


    "Then, he was either concealing his strength or he made a breakthrough just recently," said the red-robed Daoist. "That spot you took has really stirred some major figures. For instance, Sword Immortal Crimsonhero of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage and the Jade Tripod Sect''s sect master. Even our Scenic Jade Palace''s Palatial Lord is investigating the matter. Palatial Lord even summoned me to ask directly."


    "Oh?" Dragon King Lianyang was alarmed.


    Although the dragons were considered a major race they were still far inferior to the lineages of the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones. As such, the dragons kept somewhat of a low profile in the Effulgent Great World.


    "For him to reach the Skyimmortal realm as a mortal, his potential is limitless," said the red-robed Daoist with a sigh. "If I had known earlier, I would have gotten you to introduce him to me. Unfortunately, he has already returned to his homeworld, the Great Chang world."


    "Returned?" Dragon King Lianyang was astounded. "That punk didn''t even pay me a visit before leaving."


    "You have to be a lot more polite. There might even come a day when you need his help in the future," said the red-robed Daoist.


    "He reached the Skyimmortal realm as a mortal?" Dragon King Lianyang rolled his eyes.


    ******


    Great Chang world.


    In a particular yard of the Divine Firmament Chapter, Qin Yun was chatting with Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "This is a superior-grade Numinous treasure I obtained from the Effulgent Great World. With this, I can request Puqu Dragonlord''s help to rescue Xiaoxiao, right?" Qin Yun took out a golden seal, the last treasure he had obtained.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of shock. "Qin Yun, you actually obtained a superior-grade Numinous treasure on your trip to the Ancient Augury World?"


    With that, he took another look.


    On a careful look, three words surfaced on the golden seal¡ªMinor Empyrean Seal.


    "Minor Empyrean Seal?" Ancestral Master Zhang was somewhat astonished. "It looks like its a replica of the Empyrean Seal, a Connate Numinous treasure. Qin Yun, I advise you to not hand the Minor Empyrean Seal to Puqu Dragonlord."


    Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Superior-grade Numinous treasures have their own hierarchy of values," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The most ordinary superior-grade Numinous treasure is worth ten inferior-grade Numinous treasures. As for some rare ones, they can be worth dozens of inferior-grade Numinous treasures. Puqu Dragonlord only mentioned wanting one superior-grade Numinous treasure. You just need to give him the most ordinary kind! It is already pretty remarkable that a mortal sword immortal like yourself can produce one ordinary superior-grade Numinous treasure. To the Dragonlord, you giving him a better superior-grade Numinous treasure would only accomplish delighting him a little more."


    "Based on my appraisal of this Minor Empyrean Seal, it''s worth twenty inferior-grade Numinous treasures," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "You will be losing out if you give it up. Let''s do it this way. Give me half a day to use this Minor Empyrean Seal to exchange for two ordinary superior-grade Numinous treasures. You have waited more than ten years to rescue Yi Xiao. I hope that you can endure half a day more."


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    The Minor Empyrean Seal actually had such a high value.


    But¡­


    He recalled how Arhat Tenside had only obtained the treasure pagoda and was immediately ranked ninety-two on the Roll. He had obtained a superior-grade Numinous treasure, two medial-grade Numinous treasures, three inferior-grade Numinous treasures, and various other treasures. Even with all that, his ranking was still lower than Arhat Tenside''s.


    Clearly, different superior-grade Numinous treasures were valued very differently.


    "I''m in no hurry to exchange this Minor Empyrean Seal. I still have other Numinous treasures. They should add up to a superior-grade Numinous treasure."


    With that said, he took out the two medial-grade Numinous treasures he had received¡ªa rope and a flute.


    "Senior Zhang, look at these. How many more am I short?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at them and nodded. "This flute is quite ordinary but this rope is rather extraordinary. You should just need another two inferior-grade Numinous treasures."


    Qin Yun took out a reddish-bronze pole and the Space-shattering Halberd.


    When Ancestral Master Zhang saw this, he smiled and said, "You had quite a bountiful harvest. If you make a few more expeditions there, I might not even match you when it comes to treasures."


    "It''s all thanks to Senior East Sea Skydragon who helped me find this opportunity," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll exchange all of these for a superior-grade Numinous treasure for you within half a day." Ancestral Master Zhang took the treasures.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Half a day. Just half a day of waiting before he could get Puqu Dragonlord to save his wife.


    While Ancestral Master Zhang was contacting his friends to make the exchange, a black-haired male dragon descended upon the Divine Firmament Chapter with a whoosh. He was none other than the East Sea Skydragon.


    "Brother Ao," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    Instead, East Sea Skyimmortal stared at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, you broke through to the Skyimmortal realm?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang was also given a fright.


    Although the peak third Firmament realm appeared to be a step away from the Skyimmortal realm, there was actually a rather qualitative difference.


    Many cultivators were stuck at the peak third Firmament realm, forever failing to break through to the Skyimmortal realm! For instance, Patriarch Yi, Patriarch Zhongli, etc. There were countless peak Essence Souls in the Effulgent Great World! Breaking through such a huge bottleneck was extremely difficult.


    From the Connate realm to the Essence Soul realm, the Essence Soul realm to the Skyimmortal realm, and from the Skyimmortal realm to the Golden Immortal realm, the breakthroughs of such bottlenecks were extremely difficult. One needed a qualitative metamorphosis.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was slightly taken aback but he still nodded.


    "You didn''t even tell me this." East Sea Skydragon could not help but comment. "I only learned of it when Senior Brother Lianyang contacted me."


    When Qin Yun heard that, he took out a Cosmic Bag and retrieved two beads that had a purple luster emanating from them. The luster appeared to give them life. He handed them to the East Sea Skyimmortal. "Senior Skydragon, these are the Purple Wood Beads that Dragon King Lianyang wanted. They are really hard to find and I was in a rush to return. I''m very sorry if I offended him. These two Purple Wood Beads were found in the treasures a Skyimmortal left behind. Please help me by giving them to him."


    "Haha, alright." East Sea Skydragon said as he triggered a transmission talisman.


    Whoosh.


    Ripples emanated from the void beside him as he was connected directly to the Lianyang Dragon Palace in the distant Effulgent Great World.


    The purple-robed Dragon King Lianyang immediately smiled when he saw Qin Yun.


    "My friend Qin Yun," said Dragon King Lianyang with a smile. "You hid the fact that you stepped into the Skyimmortal realm from me."


    "Senior Brother, these are the two Purple Wood Beads that Qin Yun found for you." As East Sea Skydragon spoke, he waved his palm to tear open a void passageway. He threw the payload casually, and a forcefield carried the two beads through the void passageway.


    "I have been searching for Purple Wood Beads for years. There''s no rush." Dragon King Lianyang thought nothing of it. He needed a large number of Purple Wood Beads! If he only needed ten or so, he could have bought them a long time ago!


    Soon after, the exchange with Dragon King Lianyang was completed. Dragon King Lianyang threw over a Dragon Pearl to Qin Yun which was equivalent to half an inferior-grade Numinous treasure.


    "I heard that your wife is also a dragon. This Dragon Pearl is rather helpful to the cultivation of a dragon''s body at the True Dragon realm," said Dragon race Lianyang with a smile.


    Qin Yun naturally accepted it. "Thank you, Your Majesty."


    "When you come to the Effulgent Great World again, make sure to come to my Lianyang Lake. I wasn''t a good host the last time," said Dragon King Lianyang with a smile.


    "Definitely." Qin Yun nodded.


    The ripples in the void closed after the conversation was over.


    Ancestral Master Zhang said immediately, "Qin Yun, you didn''t tell me that you have entered the Skyimmortal realm."


    "I only made the breakthrough in the Ancient Augury World," replied Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly and immediately said, "You have only cultivated for decades, isn''t that so?"


    "Senior Zhang, did you forget the treasure you once gave me that allowed me to dream a hundred years?" asked Qin Yun.


    Ancestral Master Zhang chuckled. "Who doesn''t have opportunities? Even with the dream of a hundred years, that''s still less than two hundred years of cultivation. Many cultivators are still stuck in the Connate realm¡­ for longer amounts of time. It would be impressive for most to just step into the Dao! Yet you are already at the Skyimmortal realm. I have to report this matter immediately!"


    "Report?" Qin Yun turned anxious as he said immediately, "That can wait half a day. Let''s find Puqu Dragonlord and ask him to rescue my wife first. The rest can be left to the following days without any problems, right?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang could not help but nod when he saw Qin Yun''s anxious look. "Alright, I know you are worried about your wife."


    ¡­


    Following that, Ancestral Master Zhang helped Qin Yun exchange for a superior-grade Numinous treasure.


    Finding ordinary superior-grade Numinous treasures was not easy either. This was because powerful Skyimmortals only had maybe two or three superior-grade Numinous treasures! And they were usually needed.


    Fortunately, Ancestral Master Zhang had a wide social network. He contacted his good friends in other worlds. As a personal disciple of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, many of his friends had reached the fourth Firmament of the Skyimmortal realm. They were quite friendly towards him.


    Finally.


    Ripples formed from the void again and again and after more than ten times, and contacting more than ten experts of other worlds, Ancestral Master Zhang finally found a willing participant.


    "Brother Divine Firmament. I happen to have a superior-grade Numinous treasure here. It''s the Militant Gold Ax. I''ll exchange it for your items." The nine-tailed Skysnake demon immortal said.


    "Alright." Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of delight.


    Qin Yun''s face was the same when he heard that too.


    The delay added another two-plus hours! However, the superior-grade Numinous treasure was in the bag.


    Soon, both parties had made the exchange.


    "Whoosh."


    A purplish-gold ax flew out of the void rift.


    Qin Yun immediately extended his hand to grab the ax. He nodded when he felt it.


    "Let''s contact Puqu Dragonlord," said Ancestral Master Zhang. He and East Sea Skydragon turned a lot more solemn. After all, they were meeting a mighty figure.


    Qin Yun held the token with the words Puqu.


    He activated it.


    Buzz¡ª


    A ripple emanated from the void, revealing a spot in the endless distant space. A dragon larger than a planet coiled in the sea of stars. His dragon whiskers flailed in the cosmos as his dragon scales flickered with an otherworldly luster. Everything about him seemed to contain the charms of the Dao. When he opened his eyes, they were even more glaring than the sun.


    "Dragonlord." Qin Yun bowed extremely respectfully.


    Daoist Divine Firmament and East Sea Skydragon also acted reverentially.


    Puqu Dragonlord looked over at Qin Yun. "It appears you have acquired the superior-grade Numinous treasure."


    Qin Yun held the Militant Gold Ax and bowed, his voice trembling slightly. "Dragonlord, please save my wife, Yi Xiao."


    (End of Volume)

 409 Summoning

    Chapter 409: Summoning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Puqu Dragonlord looked over from the nearly endless distant space.


    "Whoosh."


    Dharmic powers crept out through the void rift and wrapped around the Militant Gold Ax from Qin Yun''s hands. Following that, it was pulled through the void rift.


    Qin Yun, Daoist Divine Firmament, and East Sea Skydragon did not dare say a word as they watched this happen.


    After all, they were already very lucky that a mighty figure was willing to help.


    Thankfully, this Ancestral Dragon realm mighty figure enjoyed collecting treasures.


    "Whoosh."


    The Militant Gold Ax tore through the great distance of space and finally reached Puqu Dragonlord. It floated around him and seemed to shrink the closer it got to him. To Puqu Dragonlord, who was more massive than a planet, the Militant Gold Ax appeared like a sesame seed.


    Puqu Dragonlord extended his dragon claws to grab it. Following that he opened his mouth, sending his voice over. "Your wife, Yi Xiao, is inside a Small World. Due to the limitations of the Heavenly Dao, I am unable to enter a Small World."


    Qin Yun also understood.


    The Heavenly Dao protected Small Worlds; therefore, mighty figures like Golden Immortals and Buddhas could not descend into Small Worlds with their true bodies.


    Existences such as the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones or Gautama Buddha were peak existences in the endless space-time continuum. Their true bodies were even more powerful but they also could not enter Great Worlds directly. They could only do so with their avatars!


    A mere avatar contained very little strength.


    "This is a Major Void Transference Talisman. It will turn to dust after being used twice." Puqu Dragonlord waved his hand as a purple Dao talisman tore through the void rift, penetrating the barrier of distance known as space. It took a while to reach the Great Chang world.


    When it finally did, Qin Yun reached out to grab it.


    "There is a void mark tagged to the Major Void Transference Talisman," continued Puqu Dragonlord. "Trigger the talisman according to the void mark and you will reach the spot where your wife is being held prisoner! You can then trigger the talisman again once you have your wife to easily escape."


    "Remember, this Major Void Transference Talisman can at most allow an Essence Soul to cast Major Void Transference."


    The voice continued resounding as the void rift closed.


    The communication between both parties had ended.


    Qin Yun looked at the purple Dao talisman in his hand, feeling rather anxious. He looked up at the closed void rift and said worriedly, "I haven''t inquired about my daughter."


    "You are not to show any disrespect to a Dragonlord," said East Sea Skydragon immediately. "Can''t you ask your Yi Xiao about your daughter after you save her? If there''s really nothing you can do, it won''t be too late to request Dragonlord''s help again. However, given a Dragonlord''s temperament, it''s not easy for them to just constantly help us juniors. We would definitely need more treasures."


    "There''s no rush," said Ancestral Master Zhang as well. "Perhaps your daughter is with Yi Xiao! If there''s no other solution, we can think about requesting Dragonlord''s assistance. By the way, you should probe the talisman and see where the void mark is."


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun held the purple Dao talisman and cast his senses into it.


    Buzz.


    With Qin Yun''s grasp of the void, he could head to other Small Worlds despite the long distance. His perception of his own homeworld, the Great Chang world, was even more acute.


    "What?" Qin Yun was alarmed and furious for he could clearly sense a certain spot.


    "Qin Yun, where is Yi Xiao being imprisoned? Is it in our Great Chang world?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang immediately. East Sea Skydragon was also looking eagerly at Qin Yun.


    "It''s in the Great Chang world, and in the Boor Ancestral Sect''s territory," said Qin Yun through gritted teeth. "She is imprisoned in a Grotto-heaven of the Boor Ancestral Sect."


    "A Grotto-heaven in the Boor Ancestral Sect?" Ancestral Master Zhang and East Sea Skydragon exchanged looks.


    "Qin Yun, I have an idea." Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up. "This Major Void Transference is different from ordinary Void Transference! The ordinary kind prevents Void Transference when space is frozen, sealed or shattered."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He knew that because he actually had the means to freeze space. Whenever he did that, ordinary Void Transference means turned ineffective.


    "I know that Major Void Transference is much more brilliant," said Qin Yun. "The Ancient Augury World had an ancient array set up around the entire planet. One could leave it immediately with using a Major Transference Token."


    "Yes."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "The Major Void Transference of the Ancient Augury World is cast by activating the massive array formation. The token you received is only a catalyst and is actually worth very little. However, the Major Void Transference Dao talisman that Dragonlord gave you can cast Major Void Transference on its own! Although it cannot be used by Skyimmortals, its value is nearly that of a medial-grade Numinous treasure."


    Major Void Transference¡­ was a lot more difficult than Void Transference.


    "The Boor Ancestral Sect is one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons of our Great Chang world," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "It has existed since ancient times and has a deep foundation and roots! In order to defend against us, the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation seals off space. None of us can enter through Void Transference. As for you Qin Yun, you now have a Major Void Transference Dao talisman, allowing you to enter a Grotto-heaven in their territory. With your present strength, you should be able to directly destroy a Grotto-heaven, am I right?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    Destroying a Grotto-heaven with one strike was something he could do after he reached the Skyimmortal realm.


    "Great." Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of delight. "After you save Yi Xiao, destroy that Grotto-heaven immediately and you will naturally appear inside the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair. You are still mortal¡­ so there''s no need to worry about suffering Heavenly Tribulation because of any effect it has on mortals. Try your best to destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation as soon as possible. The more you destroy, the easier it is for us to attack from the outside. When the time comes, we can collectively cause mayhem both inside and outside, giving us the opportunity to uproot the Boor Ancestral Sect. What do you think of this plan?"


    "Very good." Qin Yun nodded without any hesitation. His eyes were filled with killing intent. "They captured and imprisoned my wife. The Boor Ancestral Sect is one of the masterminds behind this."


    "You are eager to save your wife but here I am requesting your help to destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect. I''m truly ashamed about that, but this is a uniquely rare opportunity." Ancestral Master Zhang felt a little apologetic.


    Qin Yun shook his head, clearly not minding it. "The Boor Ancestral Sect is one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. Every day it exists is a day of trouble! I will naturally do my best if I am given a chance to destroy it. Besides, this plan poses no danger for Xiaoxiao. Even if the Boor Ancestral Sect has deep roots and hides certain secrets, I should be able to deal with them using my present strength. If I encounter a truly terrible situation and am forced to flee, I can still use the Major Void Transference Dao talisman to escape immediately with Xiaoxiao."


    "Yes." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded with a smile. "I''ll summon everyone now. Once everyone is gathered, you can take action."


    "Summon everyone?" Qin Yun hesitated for a moment. "I have no suspicions about Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, or Senior Bai, but about Skydemon Palatial Lord¡­"


    "Haha, you are not familiar with Skydemoness," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I can guarantee you on my life that she is not in cahoots with the fiendcelestials."


    "Qin Yun, rest assured," said East Sea Skydragon as well. "You haven''t cultivated for long but we are friends with Skydemon Palatial Lord, to the point that we would die for each other. We can completely entrust her with our lives."


    Qin Yun was taken aback before he nodded slightly.


    The Great Chang world was in a very good situation at present. However, it had experienced several major wars since ancient times.


    Many experts had perished.


    But since Ancestral Master Zhang and East Sea Skydragon were willing to guarantee it with their lives, Qin Yun naturally trusted them.


    ¡­


    In a Grotto-heaven inside Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was sitting under a bodhi tree, his body emitting immense golden light that illuminated the entire Grotto-heaven. Many monks sat cross-legged inside the Grotto-heaven, listening to Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa preach the Dharma.


    "Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, come to my Divine Firmament Chapter quickly. There is a rare opportunity for us to destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect in one swift strike." Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice came through a transmission.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa immediately stopped his preaching. He stood up and, with one step, vanished.


    The monks were somewhat puzzled but they did not say a word.


    After all, there was no need for Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa to inform them of his plans.


    ¡­


    At a street-side tavern in the Yuan Prefecture.


    A fat old man sat there, taking huge bites of a roasted lamb leg. His mouth was lathered in oil from his voracity. He also drank generous mouthfuls of rice wine. A customer looked at the old man''s poor table manners with disdain but the fat elder thought nothing of it. While eating, the fat elder glanced at a distant spot where a young beggar looked enviously at him.


    "Hehehe." The fat elder ate happily while he bobbed his head.


    "A good seedling that''s born to cultivate in immortality. However, his personality still needs testing," thought the fat elder. He was enjoying his meal, something he loved. This was his greatest hobby since ancient times.


    "Old Bai, quickly come to me. There''s a great opportunity for us to destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect." Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice transmission reached him.


    "What? Destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect?" The fat elder widened his eyes as he tightened his grip on the lamb leg. He returned with a voice transmission of his own, "How confident are you?"


    "Qin Yun has entered the Skyimmortal realm and has been given a chance to enter the Boor Ancestral Sect''s territory directly. There''s a high chance of success if we strike a concerted blow from both inside and outside."


    "Alright, I''ll be right there!"


    The fat elder threw down a silver fragment and transformed into a whooshing beam that vanished into the sky with the lamb leg in hand. He rushed to the Divine Firmament Chapter while eating.


    ¡­


    In a brothel in Qian Prefecture.


    A handsome youth in azure-colored clothes was drinking alcohol while listening to a renowned courtesan play the pipa.


    He had a pair of sword-like brows, and his eyes had a foxy charm to them. His skin was even more tender than a young girl''s. He looked like a woman disguised as a man but he had an Adam''s apple on his throat.


    He took a swig of alcohol as he listened to the music, his eyes seemingly lost, as though he was reminiscing.


    After a music piece finished.


    "Young Master Wang." The renowned courtesan walked over after laying down the pipa. She called out to him another time. "Young Master Wang?"


    Only then did the handsome youth react.


    "Are you done? Come, have some drinks with me." The handsome youth smiled as he pulled the renowned courtesan into his embrace.


    "Your Majesty Skydemoness, come to my Divine Firmament Chapter quickly. There is an opportunity for us to destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect."


    "Destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect?" A purple light flashed subtly in the handsome youth''s eyes. He immediately sent a voice transmission back, "Divine Firmament, the Boor Ancestral Sect has existed since ancient times. It''s not that easily destroyed. Don''t you lie to me."


    "When have I ever lied to you? You will know once you arrive," urged Daoist Divine Firmament.


    "Alright."


    The handsome youth stood up immediately.


    "I have matters to tend to." He casually threw a silver bill and, with a step, his figure phased away before vanishing.


    The renowned courtesan looked at the silver bill in a daze before smiling. She was long accustomed to Young Master Wang''s style.


    "Whoosh."


    In the distant horizon, the handsome youth''s bound hair unfurled. His clothes turned purple in color as his Adam''s apple flattened. His facial contours turned softer as a fiery-red mark appeared in between his brows.


    The purple-robed woman was now an excellent beauty, with enough charm to mesmerize all life. She headed straight for the Divine Firmament Chapter as a purple stream of light.


    ¡­


    That day, the few top existences of the Great Chang world gathered at the Divine Firmament Chapter.

 410 Yi Xiao

    Chapter 410: Yi Xiao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The entrance to the Grotto-heaven was inside the Boor Ancestral Sect, making it naturally secure.


    Inside the Grotto-heaven.


    In the Six World Isolation Skyarray that enveloped a region only half a kilometer wide, Yi Xiao sat alone on a grass patch. She looked up at the six-colored streams of light in the sky.


    The six-colored lights enveloped a tiny, separated world that spanned half a kilometer that also prevented her from leaving.


    "I''m unable to crack open the array formation even in my dragon form." Yi Xiao looked silently with her head raised. "Daughter, are you still okay?"


    "Which world are you in now?"


    "Are you being bullied?"


    "Are you still alive?"


    Yi Xiao was filled with worried thoughts.


    She had finally given birth to her daughter two years into her imprisonment. However, her Dharmic powers had long been sealed. And due to her bloodline awakening and the lack of Dragon Pool energy to absorb, she suffered the pain of transforming into a dragon daily! After her daughter was born, He Qian easily took her away. Yi Xiao had no chance of stopping him with her sealed Dharmic powers.


    Yi Xiao watched with her very own eyes as a world rift opened in the Grotto-heaven. He Qian then tossed her baby daughter to another world.


    "Yi Xiao, we originally planned on sending you out of the Great Chang world! But we never expected you to reach the True Dragon realm through a bloodline awakening! Sending you away is just too difficult now. We could only pay the considerable price to set up this massive array. However, your daughter is only a mortal newborn baby. Sending her elsewhere is simple." He Qian had laughed as he said this back then.


    Yi Xiao had no way to stop him.


    Without the Dragon Pool providing her energy for her bloodline awakening, all she could do was absorb the surrounding Heaven and Earth spiritual energies through great effort. Her awakening slowed down dramatically and the pain was excruciating.


    After seven years of imprisonment, her awakening finally ended, with her reaching the second Firmament True Dragon realm.


    Over the years, she had wept for her daughter again and again, so much so that her eyes nearly dried from losing all their tears.


    "I''m a useless mother. I could not protect you." Yi Xiao could never forget the scene of He Qian snatching her daughter away from her.


    "But your father is very powerful. He has avenged the both of us," muttered Yi Xiao. "That He Qian is already dead."


    More than a year ago, a mysterious fiendcelestial came to her.


    "Your man Qin Yun is rather powerful. He actually managed to kill two fiendcelestials, Wuha and Moquan."


    "Who are you? Where''s He Qian?"


    "He Qian is Wuha! Now that Wuha is dead, I''ll be responsible for watching you from now on. Hahaha, remember my name. It''s Huangchong! I''m not as foolish as that Wuha. I just need to hide and Qin Yun will never be able to find us." Huangchong scoffed. "When everything is ready, and we have sufficient power in this world, our plans will finally come to fruition. Once Qin Yun knows that you are alive, he will definitely come rescue you. When that happens, the two of you can die together!"


    Huangchong did not mind Yi Xiao knowing their plans.


    She had no way to leak the secret.


    The day she reunited with Qin Yun was the day they would kill Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao recalled everything.


    "My daughter and I will be used against Brother Yun?"


    "It would be better for me to die. Then they will not be able to use me," thought Yi Xiao. She had once thought of dying but her strength had been sealed. And with her vitality as a True Dragon, she was incapable of suicide.


    She had attempted every mean possible to no avail.


    "Brother Yun, you should know very clearly that it''s a trap if I''m still alive after being caught by fiendcelestials," muttered Yi Xiao. "You can''t be that silly when you know full well it''s a trap, right?"


    However, she knew that Qin Yun would still take action despite knowing it was a trap.


    He would say it''s because some people needed rescuing, even at the cost of risking one''s life.


    "I couldn''t protect my daughter and will even endanger my husband by being alive." Yi Xiao''s eyes welled with tears. She looked up into the sky. The six-colored streams of light continued enveloping the tiny pocket world where she was all alone.


    ******


    At that moment, in Divine Firmament Chapter.


    The top existences in the Great Chang world were gathered.


    Daoist Divine Firmament Ancestral Master Zhang, Qin Yun, Patriarch Bai, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemoness Palatial Lord, and Human Emperor. Of course, Human Emperor''s true body was still suppressing the greatest calamity somewhere else. He was only present as an avatar.


    "Look."


    Ancestral Master Zhang pointed at a projection floating in midair in front of him. "This is the Boor Ancestral Sect. As you know, it has existed since ancient times, giving it deep heritage. Extremely powerful Other Realm Fiendcelestials back it! Their defensive array formation has been perfected over hundreds of thousands of years. Although it''s very powerful, it''s still possible for us to crack it if we risked everything. However, there are massive numbers of mortals living inside the array formation."


    "These mortals are comprised of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s disciples and bloodline successors, as well as innocent mortals."


    "If we were to attack, causing a battle in which large numbers of mortals would perish, Heavenly Tribulation would immediately befall us."


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, you will attack from within. Do your best to destroy the array formation. Once the array formation is sufficiently weak, we will be confident in cracking the array while still ensuring the safety of the mortals."


    "Yes, we will be in charge of secretly watching from outside. The success of this will depend on Qin Yun." Patriarch Bai smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "Without anyone even realizing it, a young punk like you has already come this far. In the future, you could very well be stronger than us."


    "To reach the Skyimmortal realm after just decades of cultivation. His achievements will naturally be above ours," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa with a smile.


    "The Boor Ancestral Sect has deep roots so you have to be extremely vigilant." East Sea Skydragon looked at Qin Yun seriously.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." The purple-robed Skydemoness looked at Qin Yun. Having cultivated to the Nine-Tailed realm, her charms were extremely bewitching. She was gazing at Qin Yun intently. "After you enter the Boor Ancestral Sect, you will be facing the enemy alone. Although the destruction of the Boor Ancestral Sect is important, you have to protect your wife well. Some people will be gone forever if they are lost."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    He had been separated from his wife for nineteen years.


    He had been suffering the pain of being separated for the past nineteen years so he naturally cherished this opportunity to find her.


    "Qin Yun, you can set off immediately. We will also head for the Boor Ancestral Sect. With my speed, we will reach it very soon," said Ancestral Master Zhang. His flying speed was extremely fast.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun held his breath as he held the purple Dao talisman.


    When he triggered the Dao talisman by injecting his Dharmic powers into it, Qin Yun''s heart began to race.


    Hum!


    A spatial fluctuation enveloped Qin Yun.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun vanished.


    "Let''s go!" Ancestral Master Zhang shouted immediately.


    "Qin Yun is a sword immortal. We will definitely destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect by coordinating out attacks from within and without." Patriarch Bai was filled with fighting spirit.


    "Let''s go!" The fiery mark in between Skydemoness''s brows turned brighter.


    Purple lightning carried them as they streaked across the sky straight for Cloud Prefecture''s Boor Ancestral Sect.


    ¡­


    In the Grotto-heaven inside Boor Ancestral Sect.


    Yi Xiao sat there alone. She was already accustomed to her solitude.


    Hum!


    Suddenly, a spatial fluctuation descended into the Six World Isolation Skyarray. A figure appeared from the void.


    Yi Xiao turned her head in bewilderment when she sensed it. There in front of her was a gray-robed man with tears in his eyes.


    Their gazes met.

 411 Stars Like Rain

    Chapter 411: Stars Like Rain


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Xiaoxiao." A trembling, hoarse voice came out of Qin Yun as he looked at his wife. He had been waiting for this day for nineteen years.


    Yi Xiao looked at him in a daze, afraid that he was just a hallucination born from her despair. She muttered, "Brother Yun, is that really you?"


    Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with tears as he nodded immediately. Simultaneously, he walked over.


    ¡­


    In another spot of the Grotto-heaven, someone reacted to Qin Yun entering the Six World Isolation Skyarray using the Major Void Transference Dao talisman that Puqu Dragonlord had given him.


    There was a long series of buildings where many Boor Ancestral Sect disciples cultivated.


    After all, the Grotto-heaven had existed for a very, very long time.


    "Oh?" The mysterious fiendcelestial, Huangchong, resided in one of the buildings. He instantly sensed Qin Yun''s entry into the Six World Isolation Skyarray.


    "What happened? How has an outsider entered the Six World Isolation Skyarray?"


    Huangchong had yellow fur on his face with a high nose bridge. His cold eyes were looking alarmingly into the distance.


    He was now responsible for watching Yi Xiao and controlling the Six World Isolation Skyarray! He could sense the moment anyone even touched the array. So he naturally sensed two living beings in the array. One more person apart from Yi Xiao had appeared.


    "The Six World Isolation Skyarray can even hide from the Great Chang world''s Heavenly Dao! How is it possible for anyone to infiltrate the array?" Huangchong found it unbelievable.


    Sou!


    Although he was reeling in disbelief, he spread out a pair of black wings on his back. With a flap, he whizzed towards a desolate plain in the distance.


    An array formation enveloped the deep depths of the desolate plains and had been demarcated as a forbidden land! The Boor Ancestral Sect disciples did not dare trespass.


    "Open!"


    Huangchong looked at the forbidden land while soaring through the air. With a thought, the array formation naturally opened up for him.


    It revealed the Six World Isolation Skyarray on the desolate plains. Enveloped by the six-colored streams of light were a man and woman walking towards each other.


    The man''s appearance made even the yellow fur on Huangchong''s face tremble. His eyes widened. "Qin Yun?"


    He could obviously recognize Qin Yun!


    Qin Yun was definitely one of the most important targets the fiendcelestials had to deal with in order to conquer the Great Chang world.


    And at that moment¡ª


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked up to each other. Although Qin Yun had noticed the winged fiendcelestial with a rather strong aura in the corner of his eyes, he continued looking at his wife. Even as he moved to embrace her, a wisp of misty rain silently flew out from his sleeve. With a whoosh, Sword Qi whistled, destroying the Six World Isolation Skyarray from within in an instant! The six-colored stream of lights collapsed.


    Following that, the wisp of misty rain headed straight for the yellow-furred fiendcelestial.


    "No good!" When Huangchong saw Qin Yun release the Misty Rain Sword, he did not hesitate to flap his wings to escape in the form of a stream of light. In addition, he crushed a black wooden token in his hand.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The wooden token shattered and bells rang deep in the Grotto-heaven, where many Boor Ancestral Sect disciples were secluded in cultivation! The alarm''s ring reverberated throughout the Grotto-heaven!


    It was not just limited to the Grotto-heaven''s interior, either.


    Even outside¡­ The Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair had undulating mountains. As an ancient faction that had been in existence for hundreds of thousands of years, it had many internal divisions. There were numerous fiendish demons and quite a number of fiendcelestials! In terms of heritage and backing, the Boor Ancestral Sect was ranked in the top three of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. The fiendcelestial world that backed it was extremely powerful.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    Bells were ringing in the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair.


    "No good." The oldest being of the Boor Ancestral Sect, Patriarch Monkey, who was also the best at divination in the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons, felt his heart palpitate with an ominous sensation when he heard the bells.


    Patriarch Monkey was massive in size, like a tiny mountain. He had a waning air about him and he had not stood up in a very long time. The last time he stood up was when the Great Chang empire was just established.


    But now, he suddenly stood up.


    His wizened face was filled with shock. Just a rough divination made him feel endless horror and danger.


    "A calamity! A huge calamity is befalling my Boor Ancestral Sect!" Patriarch Monkey had disbelief in his eyes as he immediately took a step forward. His massive body instantly traversed several kilometers as he rushed to find the sect master.


    "What happened?"


    "What''s happening?"


    "The bell has rung. Something major must have happened."


    Many fiends in the Boor Ancestral Sect lair rushed to the sect''s grand hall in puzzlement.


    ¡­


    And inside the Grotto-heaven.


    There were a large number of Boor Ancestral Sect disciples that had flown out of their abodes, feeling extremely perplexed.


    "Flee quickly!" Huangchong, who was flapping his wings wildly, bellowed with a voice transmission while fleeing with all his might. He tried to reach the entrance of the Grotto-heaven as soon as possible.


    However, a wisp of misty rain caught up to him.


    "Bam!"


    The wisp of misty rain appeared ordinary and did not seem to pose any threat, but Huangchong flapped his wings in a bid to dodge it. Although the way he dodged was sudden and unpredictable, the wisp of misty rain easily penetrated his body.


    Huangchong''s body jolted as it paused in midair. A huge bloody hole had been torn through his chest.


    "Is the gap between us so huge? I can''t even take one strike of his?" Huangchong''s eyes were filled with indignation. Following that, he plummeted to the ground completely enervated and breathless.


    The scene caught the large group of distant flying Boor Ancestral Sect disciples by surprise. Although they did not know the background of the fiendcelestial, they at least knew that he was an extremely powerful one! He was definitely the strongest inside the Grotto-heaven.


    There were two other ordinary Boor Ancestral Sect fiendcelestials in the Grotto-heaven. They were first and second Firmament fiendcelestials.


    "He is an Other Realm Fiendcelestial, with the strength of a third Firmament fiendcelestial. He can''t even withstand one strike?" Their hearts thumped in fear.


    "Flee quickly!"


    "Escape!"


    As they shouted with panicked voice transmissions, they fled frantically.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh¡­ There was chaos as the fiendish disciples fled.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at each other while holding hands, their eyes welling with tears.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao still felt like she was in a dream. She could not die even if she wanted to previously, afraid that she would implicate her husband. And now, her husband had just appeared inside the mysterious array formation? She found it hard to believe.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun tightened his grip on his wife''s hand.


    It had been nineteen years.


    Every day of the past nineteen years, or even every moment, had been torturous for him. The pain, worry, self-blame, horror, anguish, longing¡­ All of that had finally come to an end today. And the final outcome was not the eternal separation that he was most afraid of, but a reunion! His wife was now standing alive in front of him!


    He had repressed his emotions for nineteen years!


    Now those emotions were erupting like a long-dormant volcano. At that moment, his heart was shaking and roaring.


    "Run!"


    "Flee quickly." Among the distant fiends, ninety percent of them were demons and the rest were humans that had pledged allegiance to the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    All of them were now escaping in panic.


    And with Qin Yun''s present emotions, the Misty Rain Sword''s move changed after slaying Huangchong.


    It erupted fully in sync with his eruptions.


    "Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword instantly transformed into a dazzling meteor that streaked across the sky, sending plumes of fiery streams of light crashing down!


    The massive number of fiery streams resembled shooting stars that swept across the Boor Ancestral Sect disciples. They were burned into nothingness the moment they made contact with the fiery light.


    "Ahhhh!" All of them cried out tragically before vanishing.


    Under the meteor storm, all the Boor Ancestral Sect''s disciples perished.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao could not help but look at the beautiful meteor storm above them. In the sky, the Misty Rain Sword had transformed into a meteor that streaked across the sky, sending countless meteors of different colors down.


    "Brother Yun, I feel as though all of this is a dream." Yi Xiao looked at the ''meteor storm.''


    "I also feel like I have been in a very, very long dream," said Qin Yun. "It''s as though I fell into a nightmare the moment you were captured by the fiendcelestials. And today is the day I wake up from that nightmare. And this move, I will call it Stars Like Rain, is the seventh move of the Dreamlike Sword. It is also its final one!"


    "With me waking up from my dream, the Dreamlike Sword is completed." Qin Yun looked at his wife. He had struggled in despair for nineteen years and finally, he had escaped it.


    Yi Xiao caressed Qin Yun''s face. She could sense the changes that her husband had gone through. When she last saw him, Qin Yun was filled with confidence, every bit the image of a peerless Sword Dao genius. He had been conferred nobility by Human Emperor and his wife became pregnant. He was at the highest point in his life but the torturous nineteen years had a great effect on him.


    Nineteen years of being alone.


    The longing and worry for his family.


    He had repeatedly comforted himself by telling himself that his wife was definitely still alive, holding firmly to that belief. Qin Yun did not even dare imagine what he would do if Puqu Dragonlord had told him that his wife was already dead.


    "The heavens have been good to me, allowing Brother Yun to return to my side." Yi Xiao''s heart winced for her husband.


    "By the way, Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun''s thoughts shifted as he gradually calmed down from the excitement of being reunited with his wife. He immediately asked, "Is our daughter born? Where is she?"

 412 Obliterate!

    Chapter 412: Obliterate!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yi Xiao could not help but feel her heart tighten when she heard Qin Yun inquire about their daughter. "Our daughter has been born but my Dharmic powers were completely sealed. I could not protect her. He Qian snatched our daughter from my arms before sending her through a world rift to a fiendcelestial world."


    "She was sent to a fiendcelestial world?" Qin Yun''s heart stopped.


    "They imprisoned me here to use me against you," said Yi Xiao immediately. "They planned on sending me to another world but, due to my bloodline awakening, I had already reached the True Dragon realm. Therefore, they could only imprison me. As for our daughter, she was only a mortal baby. They easily sent her to the fiendcelestial world. Perhaps, they will use our daughter against you in the future."


    "A fiendcelestial world. Which world is it?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I do not know. I only saw a world that appeared extremely evil through the world rift," said Yi Xiao. "My guess is that it''s a fiendcelestial world! As for which world it is, I do not know."


    Yi Xiao''s eyes turned red as she spoke. "I really wanted to protect our daughter but I was useless¡­"


    "It''s alright." Qin Yun hugged his wife and immediately consoled her. "This is not your fault! I was able to save you only because I gained the help of an Ancestral Dragon realm existence, Puqu Dragonlord."


    "Ancestral Dragon realm?" asked Yi Xiao. "What''s the Ancestral Dragon realm?"


    "A realm above the Skydragon realm!" said Qin Yun. "They are on the same level as Golden Immortals and Buddhas. They are peerless figures of the Three Realms, extremely mighty with boundless Dharmic powers."


    Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up.


    "Once this matter is resolved, I will seek Puqu Dragonlord''s help again," said Qin Yun. "You gave birth to our daughter after you had a dragon bloodline awakening. Our daughter should transform into a dragon at a young age. On account of her dragon ancestry and me having a superior-grade Numinous treasure, the Minor Empyrean Seal, I believe the Dragonlord will agree to help us save our daughter."


    Yi Xiao was filled with questions. Superior-grade Numinous treasures? Even Numinous treasures had grades?


    Minor Empyrean Seal?


    "You can save our daughter?" Yi Xiao was delighted.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun would spare no expense, even if he had to pay the price of the Minor Empyrean Seal.


    Due to him being a mortal sword immortal, his Dharmic powers only allowed him to control an inferior-grade Numinous treasure at best even though he had condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core! Although medial-grade or superior-grade Numinous treasures could recognize him as master¡­ controlling them was just too exhausting. He was unable to truly use them to their full potential.


    For instance, an ordinary Connate Golden Core could barely control transcendent-grade Dharma treasures.


    Therefore, a treasure at the level of the Minor Empyrean Seal could only really be wielded by one with Skyimmortal Dharmic powers. Only some Essence Souls with more robust foundations like Arhat Tenside or Ape Fiend Junior could control a superior-grade Numinous treasure with third Firmament Essence Soul Dharmic powers.


    "Everything is worth it to save our daughter." Qin Yun looked forward to meeting her one day.


    "Xiaoxiao," Qin Yun said. "This time, Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemoness and I will be joining forces. We hope to eradicate the Boor Ancestral Sect of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. We will rid the Great Chang world of a scourge."


    "Eradicate the Boor Ancestral Sect?" Yi Xiao could not help but comment. "The Boor Ancestral Sect has been in existence for hundreds of thousands of years and it has very deep roots. How do you plan to destroy it?"


    "The entrance to this Grotto-heaven is right inside the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair," said Qin Yun. "They abducted my wife and took my daughter away. How can I spare them?"


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Yi Xiao nodded as well. Her eyes were filled with hate. How could she not feel any hate after watching her daughter be forcefully taken away just moments after she was born?


    "Let me remove the seals on you first." Qin Yun immediately transmitted his Dharmic powers into Yi Xiao''s body. The sharp wisps of Dharmic powers resembled swords. With Qin Yun''s superb realm, he skillfully and easily removed the seals in his wife''s body.


    "Whoosh~"


    The potent Dharmic powers surged through Yi Xiao''s body like a raging river. She regained the color in her face as her True Dragon realm aura began to burst out of her.


    "Stay by my side. Do not go far," said Qin Yun.


    "Okay." Yi Xiao nodded. Although she had reached the second Firmament True Dragon realm, she could not do a thing in a battle as intense as the destruction of the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Retrieve."


    Qin Yun threw out the Two World Picture. It flew up and stopped in midair. A large amount of treasure beneath was sucked into its array.


    This was a Grotto-heaven that had been operated by the Boor Ancestral Sect for years. It was extremely important to them, which was also why they hid their treasures there!


    After putting away all the treasures, the Two World Picture flew back into Qin Yun''s hands.


    "Break!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip, streaking across the sky in a beautiful trajectory that spanned tens of kilometers before it struck the membrane wall of the Grotto-heaven.


    Ka Ka Ka¡­


    Many fine cracks appeared in the Grotto-heaven''s walls, then the entire Grotto-heaven crumbled. During this shattering process, one could see the connecting node between the Grotto-heaven and the Great Chang world.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun held his wife''s hand as he transformed into a sword-like beam of light. He then followed the node to depart the crumbling Grotto-heaven.


    The Grotto-heaven completely shattered after Qin Yun left.


    In the ensuing void storms, everything in the Grotto-heaven was ground into nothingness.


    ¡­


    Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair.


    There was lush vegetation in the continuous stretch of mountains. Many of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s fiendcelestials and core disciples were gathered in the sect''s grand hall. There were also tens of thousands of disciples gathered in a square outside the hall.


    Sitting atop a throne was a stocky single-horned ox fiend. He was Sect Master Boor Ancestral!


    And beside him were Patriarch Monkey and Aged Fiend Goat Horn.


    These three¡­ were famous fiends in the Great Chang world. They were all at the peak third Firmament realm.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral had extremely dominating strength. His strength was a hair''s breadth away from that of a Skygod or Skyfiend. Patriarch Monkey was an ancient existence that was the best at divination among the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. Aged Fiend Goat Demon was the best at array formations.


    "The transmission marks all dissipated at once." Aged Fiend Goat Horn narrowed his eyes as he said coldly, "All the disciples inside the Grotto-heaven, as well as Fiendcelestial Huangchong! All of their transmission marks have dissipated. It looks like all of them are dead."


    "What danger did they encounter for Huangchong to be so alarmed that he crushed the token?" The ox fiend frowned. "Furthermore, all of them died in a blink of an eye. Not a single one came out alive. Unfortunately, the Grotto-heaven is isolated from the outside world. There''s no way to send any transmissions to it. It''s also unknown who the enemy is."


    Patriarch Monkey had a wrinkled face and a declining air about him. He said in a deep voice, "I already mentioned that it''s a great calamity. A huge calamity for our Boor Ancestral Sect. If we do not survive this, our Boor Ancestral Sect might really be completely obliterated."


    The trio discussed in an isolated space. They prevented their subordinates from hearing any of their conversation.


    They held the highest positions in the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Sect Master Boor Ancestral." A voice suddenly sounded in the trio''s ears. "From the looks of it, your Boor Ancestral Sect has encountered trouble. It''s trivial if a bunch of your Boor Ancestral Sect disciples die, but remember, do not spoil the Empyrean Lord''s plans."


    "I understand," the ox fiend replied with an immediate voice transmission "Don''t worry. We will settle the issue quickly."


    "Okay," the voice replied indifferently.


    In a hidden compound in the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair, a thin man in luxurious clothes sat cross-legged. he had a pair of long, foxy eyes. His eyes were open as he looked into the distant outside world. He grumbled softly, "Huangchong really is incompetent. He was a fiendcelestial that reached the third Firmament, but he died so quickly? From the looks of it, some unforeseen danger has presented itself. It''s best if the Boor Ancestral Sect sect can resolve the matter themselves. If I were to take action, it would only draw suspicion from people like Daoist Divine Firmament."


    At that moment¡ª


    Swoosh.


    A man and woman flew out of the void like an otherworldly couple.


    The man''s hair was disheveled but his eyes were staring right at the Boor Ancestral Sect''s grand hall. It was filled with killing intent!


    "Qin Yun?" The thin man could not help but be alarmed when he saw the scene from a distance.


    The three mighty fiends in the grand hall turned their heads and saw the couple exit the void. They could not help but be alarmed. "Qin Yun? How did he appear here?"


    They naturally recognized him.


    After all, Qin Yun was extremely famous in the Great Chang world.


    "Boor Ancestral Sect, die!"


    Qin Yun''s angry bellow sounded like thunder that roared in every Boor Ancestral Sect disciple''s ears.


    "Boor Ancestral Sect, die!"


    "Boor Ancestral Sect, die!"


    "Boor Ancestral Sect, die!"


    ¡­


    The disciples'' minds were abuzz the instant they heard the angry bellow.


    The tens of thousands of disciples in the square outside the grand hall were fiendish demons meticulously chosen for their potential but now, their bodies noiselessly dissipated under Qin Yun''s shout.


    The scene of tens of thousands of fiendish demons being reduced to nothingness made the three mighty fiends sitting high above stare with widened eyes.


    A terrifying blast enveloped the square and hall.


    Many disciples in the hall were reduced to nothing as well.


    Hum!


    Behind the throne where the ox fiend sat was a gigantic fiendcelestial statue. It was emitting a forcefield that spread out for a thousand feet to protect the area!


    The Boor Ancestral Sect''s fiendcelestials and twenty plus core disciples were within that one thousand feet.


    All the disciples that were standing even slightly to the periphery of the grand hall were obliterated.


    "Qin Yun has reached the Skyimmortal realm!" The ox fiend stood up, his expression twisted into pure shock, as he stared intently at the distant Qin Yun.


    "A Skyimmortal realm''s Dao domain!"


    Multiple blood vessels appeared in Patriarch Monkey and Aged Fiend Goat Horn''s eyes as though they were cracking.


    Yes.


    Qin Yun had cast out his Dao domain the moment he appeared to vanquish all the Boor Ancestral Sect disciples. It was just too difficult to defend against a Skyimmortal realm''s Dao domain. Even the array formations set up in the Ancient Skydragon Palace at the bottom of the West Sea could previously suppress Qin Yun''s Dao domain but now, with him having reached the Skyimmortal realm, even the ancient Skydragon himself might only equal Qin Yun''s Dao domain while alive. Those array formations could no longer suppress Qin Yun''s Dao domain.


    It was the same with the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array. Only a very tiny area could be barely protected.


    All the disciples outside of the array were obliterated.


    Of course, Qin Yun did not implicate the mortals that appeared innocent.


    "He killed so many of our Boor Ancestral Sect''s disciples?" The ox fiend fumed in anger, his eyes red.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun held his wife''s hand as he looked at the distant Boor Ancestral Sect hall. He did not show any mercy. Destroying one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons was part of the plan to begin with. It was something generations of cultivators yearned to do.


    "I will not only kill your disciples, I will kill all of you too! Die!" Qin Yun roared as he waved his hand.


    Hua!


    The Misty Rain Sword expanded abruptly, becoming a glaring sword beam that was at least a thousand feet wide as it streaked across the sky, shooting straight for the Boor Ancestral Sect''s grand hall.

 413 Hundred Swords

    Chapter 413: Hundred Swords


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When the thousand-foot-wide sword beam streaked across the sky, carving a fierce path to its target, the Connate Golden Core demons, as well as the ordinary fiendcelestials, quaked in fear. Qin Yun''s Dao domain was just too terrifying. It had killed all the Boor Ancestral Sect disciples in one swift blow and the sword beam''s might was truly terrifying. It had reached the power of a Skyimmortal.


    "How is this Qin Yun that strong?"


    "So many junior brothers and sister have died. Does our Boor Ancestral Sect have a chance of fending him off?" The disciples were struck with unease.


    The single-horned ox fiend, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn were only infuriated!


    "A Dao domain is formless and invisible. An array formation cannot even stop it." Aged Fiend Goat Horn''s voice was sharp. "But he can forget about cracking our Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation with that flying sword."


    Hum!


    Layers of black light condensed above the sect''s hall along with the appearance of countless runic patterns that enveloped the entire hall.


    "Every generation, my Boor Ancestral Sect continues to fortify and perfect this array formation. It has done so for over hundreds of thousands of years. How can he crack it?" The ox fiend scoffed. He was also controlling the array formation personally. As his Boor Ancestral Sect had existed for a very long period of time, it had naturally produced some very powerful fiendcelestials. There were some who even matched Skyfiends but failed to become one because the world''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi was repugnant to fiendcelestials.


    If they tried to survive the Heavenly Tribulation, the potency of the tribulation would be extremely terrifying. It was nearly impossible to succeed.


    Therefore, no true Skyfiend had ever been born from the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons in all of recorded history!


    One had to know that the humans of the Great Chang world had been in dire situations before. The Daoists, Buddhists, Godfiends, magi, and dragons had produced Skyimmortals, Bodhisattvas, Grand Magi, and Skydragons many times throughout history. Many of them eventually died in battle! Some were unwilling to fight for the Great Chang world. They abandoned their homeworld and embarked on a path of cultivation that only served their own pleasure.


    Even so, the Great Chang world now had several Skyimmortals and Skygods like Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Yet, the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons did not have a single Skyfiend in all of history because the entire world was united against the Fiendcelestial lineage! The Fiendcelestial lineage had never managed to conquer the world as a result.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect had certainly produced fiendcelestials that matched the Skyfiend realm before. But they could only leave the Great Chang world and head for fiendcelestial worlds. Only in those worlds where they were not ostracized would they have a chance of surviving the Heavenly Tribulations.


    But with all of those combined insight, the array formations left behind by every generation naturally evolved into something extremely powerful! There were also those that became Skyfiends and sent treasures back to their sect through world rifts.


    "Go." The ox fiend commanded his array formation.


    "Finish Qin Yun as soon as possible to prevent any unforeseen catastrophes from happening." Patriarch Monkey was also controlling the array formation.


    ¡­


    In midair, countless arrows gathered, each arrow combining to form a dense horde that surged and surrounded the Misty Rain Sword!


    "Swoosh!" The Misty Rain Sword was extremely sharp, allowing it to tear through the countless arrows cleanly. However, there were just too many arrows, causing the momentum of the Misty Rain Sword to constantly weaken as it broke through the arrows'' impediment. When the finally sword struck the black barrier of light that protected the sect''s grand hall, the barrier trembled and even cracked. However, the barrier managed to hold.


    "I haven''t even taken action. Just the array formation alone is enough to fend off his sword." The ox fiend flipped his hand and grabbed a huge ax that appeared. He smiled sinisterly at the Misty Rain Sword that had struck the black barrier of light.


    "Brother Monkey, will you not act yet?" urged Aged Fiend Goat Horn.


    "Controlling the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array is a most complicated endeavor," commented Patriarch Monkey. "Besides, this sword immortal''s Intrinsic Flying Sword is most powerful. I''ll wait till his flying sword attacks again and then I''ll attack his body directly. His flying sword will not be able to return to protect him in time and there will be a chance of me destroying him in one fell swoop."


    The single-horned ox fiend nodded in approval.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation that had been improved on for hundreds of thousands of years was not something Ancestral Master Zhang and company could crack without implicating a large number of innocent mortals! After all, the Boor Ancestral Sect had amassed a large number of humans to live in the mountains amid their lair.


    "Brother Yun, their Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation is really powerful." Yi Xiao could not help but comment when she witnessed the might of the array formation.


    "I have to probe it first before finding an opportunity to crack it," said Qin Yun.


    Not a single lineage of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons was that easily obliterated, much less the Boor Ancestral Sect that had existed since ancient times.


    It was only because of the Major Transference Dao talisman and him being a unique mortal that possessed the strength of a Skyimmortal that made the possibility of vanquishing the Boor Ancestral Sect possible.


    "Go." Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The wisp of misty rain continued flying up and smashing against the barrier despite being surrounded by large numbers of arrows.


    Now the Misty Rain Sword was extremely powerful when it cleaved down in midair, as though it was a huge ax that could render the world asunder.


    It was using the strongest and most oppressive fifth move of his Dreamlike Sword, Traveling in Solitude! After reuniting with Yi Xiao, Qin Yun figured out the final, seventh strike of his Dreamlike Sword, Stars Like Rain. His Sword Dao realm was naturally enhanced also. The earlier sword moves¡­ were naturally perfected as a result. However, all of this required time! After all, he had only just figured out Stars Like Rain before he began the battle.


    "I shall perfect this move in this battle," thought Qin Yun.


    "Boom¡ª"


    Traveling in Solitude!


    The flying sword had indomitable might as it carved through the void, producing a black void rift. After destroying many of the arrows that were surrounding it, it attacked the layers black light again. Five layers of black light shattered, leaving only the final layer intact!


    "Now''s the time!" Patriarch Monkey immediately triggered the prepared array formation when Qin Yundirected the Misty Rain Sword to cleave the air above the sect''s grand hall. "Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array!"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The mountains amid the Boor Ancestral Sect rumbled as a massive array chart in each mountain activated.


    Eight array charts were stirring up the massive Heaven and Earth powers.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun noticed it immediately.


    Eight gigantic sabers that suffused fiendish auras appeared from underground. They took up eight spots around him.


    "Kill!" Patriarch Monkey''s eyes were filled with anticipation.


    The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array was ranked second among the Boor Ancestral Sect''s decimation arrays! But in terms of trapping enemies, it was the best. Once the Eight Gates were sealed, an enemy had nowhere to hide! They could only defend. Patriarch Monkey also hoped to use this opportunity to slay Qin Yun, so he had brought out the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array.


    The eight sabers appeared as one, powered by the array formation''s gathering of strength. The blades had runic patterns that swirled about as the void beside the blades constantly cracked.


    "What impressive might." Qin Yun did not panic. He flipped his hand and took out a gigantic black sword.


    "Split."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The black sword began producing grinding sounds internally as it split apart just like the Seven Kills Sword that Qin Yun had once obtained! But instead of breaking into seven pieces, this sword could split into a hundred swords! It was one of the two inferior-grade Numinous treasures that Qin Yun had obtained in the Ancient Augury World''s pagoda. He was very delighted to receive this Numinous treasure named the Heavy Water Sword. It could attack many targets at once while also defending him like a wave of water.


    But in Qin Yun''s hands, the hundred swords could be used as one. They easily formed a Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "The Cyclic Sword Flash is indeed better when there are more flying swords. It''s best if there are 360 swords as that matches the number of Heavenly Cycles. That would be perfect," thought Qin Yun.


    "Whoosh~"


    The hundred swords naturally combined their powers to form a Cyclic Sword Flash world that protected him from the incoming assault. The Heavenly Cycles sword flashes resembled water waves.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Amid an incessant hum, the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array unleashed its barrage of attacks simultaneously. The Cyclic Sword Flash was surrounded.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash produced waves of water that were perfect and flawless, completely withstanding the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array''s attack.


    Yi Xiao couldn''t help but look nervous since it was a clash between the Boor Ancestral Sect, with its hundreds of thousands of years of heritage, and Qin Yun on his own.


    Qin Yun sensed the anxiety from his wife''s grip and smiled at her. "Don''t worry. This is a rare chance to obliterate the Boor Ancestral Sect. Ancestral Master Zhang and company have already made the preparations. They have also given me several treasures. This time, we will see if the Boor Ancestral Sect''s heritage is truly that deep, or the means available to us are more powerful."


    ¡­


    And at that moment.


    Daoist Divine Firmament, Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, Skydemon Palatial Lord, East Sea Skydragon, and Patriarch Bai were streaking across the sky amid a purple bolt of lightning. They were only a few hundred kilometers away from the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s Eye of Lightning was already open in between his brows.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was also casting his Heavenly Eye divine power.


    All of them were using their own means to see what was happening inside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "What happened?" Patriarch Bai asked immediately. He was incapable of seeing past the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formations to spy on the situation inside.


    "Qin Yun is fighting them but the outcome is still up in the air," said Ancestral Master Zhang.

 414 Ox Fiend Body

    Chapter 414: Ox Fiend Body


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun withstood the Boor Ancestral Sect''s Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array by casting the Cyclic Sword Flash with the inferior-grade Numinous treasure, Heavy Water Sword.


    While holding his wife''s hand, Qin Yun looked at the grand hall of the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Go again."


    He controlled the Misty Rain Sword once more, this time casting the fifth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Traveling in Solitude.


    Qin Yun was gaining new experience with every clash. Once he had reached a certain level of insight, perfecting Traveling in Solitude became easy. The might of every strike would be increased!


    "Boom!!!"


    It was like an ax that split open a world!


    The Misty Rain Sword cleaved the black barrier of light layers with a blinding sword flash.


    This time, the sixth layer collapsed for an instant, allowing the remnant might of the Misty Rain Sword to penetrate the hall. The hall trembled as array charts suffused across its surface. However, they were also quivering as though they would crumble at any moment.


    "The might of his sword arts is increasing with every strike." Aged Fiend Goat Horn could not help but notice. "Is his strength constantly increasing while we fight him? How can such fast improvement be possible?"


    "The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array won''t be able to do a thing to him." Patriarch Monkey turned anxious as well.


    "This Qin Yun¡­ has only cultivated for decades to achieve such power." The single-horned ox fiend stood up and said with a deep voice. "Brother Goat, do your best to hold out and protect the hall. Brother Monkey, let''s join forces¡­ to kill Qin Yun!"


    "Be careful, Sect Master," said Patriarch Monkey and Aged Fiend Goat Horn in unison.


    "Don''t worry. I might not be Qin Yun''s match outside, but in the Boor Ancestral Sect I can hold my own against anyone in the Great Chang world that isn''t Daoist Divine Firmament!" The ox fiend took a step and strode out the hall.


    The fiendcelestials and disciples in the hall felt a rising anticipation.


    Qin Yun was just too strong. He was suppressing their Boor Ancestral Sect by himself!


    "Qin Yun."


    The moment the ox fiend appeared, his voice rumbled like thunder. Purple light suffused the peaks of the surrounding mountains as purple clouds rose up.


    As for the ox fiend''s body, it shifted into a massive body about half a kilometer tall. The muscles of his mountain-like body were like layers of rock. Dense runic patterns appeared on the surface of his body, flashing in cadence with the purple light that permeated the Boor Ancestral Sect. At that moment, the ox fiend seemed to be the lord of the world, or at least the surrounding fifty kilometers.


    Boundless strength from the purple clouds gathered over and swirled around the ox fiend''s massive body. With every breath, purple clouds spewed out of his nostrils before being sucked back in.


    "Sect Master Boor Ancestral is an ox fiend," Qin Yun said with a smile to Yi Xiao. "He cultivates in the Great Strength Ox Fiendbody. Therefore, the Boor Ancestral Sect spared no cost to set up an Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array that complements him greatly. Sect Master Boor Ancestral is able to augment his body with the array formation''s powers, raising his strength to an even higher level. This is also the Boor Ancestral Sect''s strongest array formation."


    Yi Xiao nodded in enlightenment. She also felt a lot more relieved seeing her husband''s confidence.


    "Qin Yun, you know quite a lot." The ox fiend sneered from a distance. "Try this strike of mine."


    The massive, half-kilometer-tall ox fiend suddenly stepped forward and, with a whoosh, transformed into a stream of light to fly into the sky.


    He raised an equally massive ax and, with widened eyes, cleaved down with all his strength as he came crashing down!


    Boom!


    Qin Yun had been directing the Misty Rain Sword to repeatedly attack the sect''s hall. Aged Fiend Goat Horn was doing his best to control the array formation and was even using treasures as a final bid to protect the hall. After all, the hall contained the most important core members of the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Swoosh." The Misty Rain Sword immediately transformed into a stream of light and rapidly returned when it failed to make any headway.


    Although the ox fiend''s massive body was hurtling down towards Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Sword''s speed was naturally a lot faster! By the time the ox fiend was close enough to strike and raised his ax, the Misty Rain Sword had already reached Qin Yun.


    "Go."


    The Misty Rain Sword headed straight for the attack without any qualms.


    "Boom!!!"


    The blinding sword flash clashed with the gigantic ax in midair.


    The Misty Rain Sword was sent backward from the strike while the ax only paused slightly. However, the ox fiend holding it landed onto the ground with a boom.


    "What impressive strength." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. However, a sword immortal''s flying sword was not known for its brute strength. He could only use the most domineering strength available to him, the seventh move of the Dreamlike Sword, in an attempt to push back the ox.


    "You are just this and nothing more!" The ox fiend roared with laughter when he landed. Simultaneously, he charged towards Qin Yun, each step causing the land to tremble. Big as he was, he moved as fast as lightning.


    "That was just a competition of strength. Now, it''s time to kill you." A glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    Whoosh.


    With a flash, the Misty Rain Sword swung around the ox fiend''s body in an unfathomable manner. It stabbed straight at the back of the ox fiend''s head.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The flying sword''s stab created sparks. The ox''s head was just too hard.


    "Are you scratching an itch for me?" laughed the ox fiend.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun immediately changed his attack, going from the unfathomable Waning Waxing Moons to the domineering Traveling in Solitude.


    Shoo! Shoo! Boom!


    The Misty Rain Sword circled around the ox fiend several times before striking but he ignored it, allowing the flying sword to strike him repeatedly. At best, a white scratch was left on his skin. There was no way for the flying sword to tear through his body. When the final Traveling in Solitude hit, the ox fiend merely stumbled and felt a slight tear in his skin.


    After withstanding several strikes from the flying sword, the ox fiend was already right in front of Qin Yun. He cleaved down with his ax with all his might.


    "Boom!" The ax stirred the clouds and winds as it ripped open the void with its fierce might.


    "Kill!" Patriarch Monkey also attacked with the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array at that moment.


    They coordinated their efforts.


    Qin Yun looked up while holding his wife''s hand. The Cyclic Sword Flash enveloped his surroundings. The strike made the barrier warp, but it held. The sword flashes swirled around for a moment before they restored to normal.


    "Back when my Sword Dao reached the Skyimmortal realm, just a Green Leaf Flying Sword could easily withstand the combat forces of two or three Skyimmortals. Now that my Sword Dao has improved and I''m casting it with a Numinous treasure, and with the sheer number of swords, its ability to defend is about eighty percent of my Intrinsic Flying Sword. It''s very easy to defend against the two of them." Qin Yun did not feel threatened in any way.


    His two opponents were relying on various array formations just to produce momentary bursts of strength that matched Skyimmortals.


    Qin Yun himself had the strength of a Skyimmortal to begin with. Furthermore, his Sword Dao had improved after he figured out the seventh move of the Dreamlike Sword. In fact, back when he saw the Butterfly Portrait in the Ancient Augury World''s Grotto-heaven, he had the urge to create a seventh move. However, he felt that something was lacking. It was only when he reunited with his wife, and the modulation it had on his mind allowed him to create the move in one fell swoop, that his insights were greatly enhanced.


    If he focused on defense, how could his opponents ever crack his barrier?


    "What? It can''t be cracked?" The ox fiend felt a little vexed.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    He and Patriarch Monkey continued their relentless assault, but they failed to crack open the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "The Boor Ancestral Sect has three patriarchs. Patriarch Monkey''s and Patriarch Goat''s true bodies are in the hall. They are resisting through use of the array formation. However, their real bodies are unable to withstand my flying sword," thought Qin Yun. "As long as I destroy the hall I can vanquish the two fiendish demons. As for the remaining ox fiend¡­there are many array formations in the Boor Ancestral Sect but how effective can they be if he''s using them alone?"


    The more powerful the array formation, the more complex it was to control it.


    "Swoosh." The Misty Rain Sword headed for the hall once again as Qin Yun allowed the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array and the ox fiend to attack him.


    "Sect Master," said Aged Fiend Goat Horn through a voice transmission. "We cannot allow his flying sword to attack freely. I can''t last much longer."


    "Oh?"


    The ox fiend turned his head and saw the Misty Rain Sword flying around the hall.


    "His flying sword is too fast. I can''t stop it. Brother Monkey, have the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array trap his flying sword," instructed the ox fiend with a voice transmission. "I''ll continue attacking Qin Yun. Although he is putting up an impregnable defense using a Numinous treasure¡­ he is ultimately a mortal sword immortal. There is a limit to his Dharmic powers. It must be extremely draining on him to control a Numinous treasure. If I keep attacking, he must control the Numinous treasure to fend me off. Soon, his Dharmic powers will be drained. Even if he has pills that can replenish his Dharmic powers, how many of those pills can he have?"


    "Even if this battle continued for three days and nights, I will no doubt expend all his pills and Dharmic powers! When the time comes, he''s doomed!" The ox fiend sent a voice transmission, having made his decision.


    His idea was not wrong either.


    Even though Qin Yun had condensed a purplish-gold Golden Core, controlling an inferior-grade Numinous treasure was his limit! Furthermore, it was extremely draining.


    "Alright." Patriarch Monkey agreed.


    "This Qin Yun''s defensive moves are powerful. Let''s compete in Dharmic powers with this mortal. Let''s see how much longer he can last." Aged Fiend Goat Horn was filled with anticipation as well.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The eight fiendish blades formed from a simple thought. They were not real Dharma treasure weapons to begin with but were condensed from an array formation. Their flying speed was even greater than Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword! Just a simple phasing away allowed them to streak across the sky and rapidly appear in front of the sect''s hall.


    They even shrank, easily surrounding the Misty Rain Sword.


    "I want to see how much longer you can hold out for." The ox fiend brandished his ax and cleaved it at Qin Yun.


    He was using his bodily strength, augmented by the array formation''s strength. He could last for more than half a month.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun immediately guessed the situation when he saw everything play out in front of him. "You are trying to hold me back and drain me of my Dharmic powers?"


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    "Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword''s might turned ferocious as it suddenly blasted through the eight fiendish blades and fled quickly.


    Swoosh! The eight blades chased it at a faster speed.


    In response, the Misty Rain Sword cast Waning Waxing Moons. Although the surrounding void had been sealed, the flying sword''s trajectory became unpredictable! It could move with more agility than manifestations of an array formation to begin with. Waning Waxing Moons left behind a series of flying sword phantoms in midair, preventing the eight fiendish blades from truly trapping it.


    Of course, the Misty Rain Sword did not stop for it could be easily trapped if it paused for even a moment.


    "I''ll kill this single-horned ox fiend first," thought Qin Yun.


    "Stars Like Rain!"


    When the Misty Rain Sword came near, it had a sudden burst of strength.


    Like a burning meteor that streaked across the sky, its speed was the fastest of all Qin Yun''s sword moves!


    "Oh?" The ox fiend turned his head to give it a glance before scoffing. "Again with this?"


    He ignored it and turned back to continue his attack on Qin Yun.


    He allowed the meteor to streak across the sky and strike him in his back.


    Boom!


    The meteor-like flying sword stabbed into the ox fiend''s back.


    This was the sharpest and fastest attack Qin Yun had! The ox fiend''s back was extremely tough and his muscles were like boulders. Purple runic patterns were infused in them and at that moment, the sword in the form of a meteor had plunged straight in. The surrounding muscles tore apart, giving the ox fiend a shock! It alarmed Patriarch Monkey, Aged Fiend Goat Horn, the various fiendcelestials, the Boor Ancestral Sect disciples, and the thin man that was inside the hidden compound.


    And at that moment, Ancestral Master Zhang and company were waiting in anticipation outside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Boom!" Muscles tore apart as blood splattered.


    A bloody hole nearly ten feet wide appeared on the ox fiend''s back.


    However, his skin and muscles were just too thick, considering that he was about half a kilometer tall! Qin Yun''s flying sword managed to stab twenty feet in but still only reached muscles! The layers of muscles immediately tightened and shifted in a bid to squeeze out the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Whoosh." The flying sword rapidly flew out of the wound.


    The bloody, ten-foot-wide wound rapidly closed as the half-kilometer-tall ox fiend''s muscles squirmed.


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    His most powerful Stars Like Rain, the attack he was confident in, failed to penetrate the ox fiend''s muscles?


    "Qin Yun, that Sect Master Boor Ancestral cultivates in the Great Strength Ox Fiendbody. The potency of his physical body is the greatest of all the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons. He had once received three palm strikes from Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and, although he was heavily injured, he managed to escape. In the Boor Ancestral Sect lair, there is the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array that makes him even stronger. He will be the biggest obstacle when it comes to obliterating the Boor Ancestral Sect. You have to be careful. "Ancestral Master Zhang had already provided him with immense amounts of information regarding the Boor Ancestral Sect before he came.


    Qin Yun was originally very confident. After seeing his wife and creating Stars Like Rain, the enhancement to his Sword Dao boosted his confidence.


    "He is able to withstand my strongest sword move?" Qin Yun''s heart tightened at that moment.

 415 Sect Master Boor Ancestrals Weakness

    Chapter 415: Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s Weakness


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The ox fiend''s body was more than half a kilometer tall. But although he was only inflicted with a bloody wound a mere ten feet wide on his back, he remained alarmed. "I have fought with Skyimmortals and Bodhisattvas before and escaped unscathed! Now, I''m inside my Boor Ancestral Sect lair and have the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array augmenting me¡­ yet I was still injured by Qin Yun''s flying sword? He is in no way weaker than Patriarch Bai or Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa!"


    Patriarch Bai was a Skyimmortal that had lived since ancient times. He even used the amazing superior-grade Numinous treasure, Stellar Heavenly Cycle!


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was the leader of the Buddhist school of thought in the Great Chang world! He had long cultivated a golden body and had many powerful abilities at his disposal.


    It was quite a thing to say that the might of Qin Yun''s Stars Like Rain was close to Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and Patriarch Bai! The only thing he was lacking was Dharmic powers. If his Dharmic powers reached the Skyimmortal realm¡­ perhaps Ancestral Master Zhang would be the only person in the Great Chang world who could match Qin Yun at that point. After all, the sword immortal lineage was known to be capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. Their powerful attacks allowed them to fight someone at a higher realm than them.


    "His back muscles are extremely hard. Perhaps spots like his head, neck, or armpits are relatively weaker." Qin Yun had such a thought.


    The Misty Rain Sword tore out of the bloody hole, and once again transformed into a blinding meteor. It was going for another strike!


    This time!


    The sword flash flew straight for the ox fiend''s head.


    "Hmph!" The ox fiend turned his head slightly and closed his eyes. He lowered his head at the perfect moment, making the top of his head that resembled a mountain clash with Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    Bam!


    Sparks flew out of the point of impact! The skin that covered the ox fiend''s cranium was just too thick. There was no way to tear through it.


    "What?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Aged Fiend Goat Horn watched from afar inside the sect''s grand hall. He could not help but roar with laughter. "The strongest part of Sect Master''s Great Strength Ox Fiendbody is the head! With the array formation''s augmentation, it might even match the power of an inferior-grade Numinous treasure. How can it be blasted apart by a puny sword?"


    "Sect Master has the array formations protecting him yet he was injured. Qin Yun is truly formidable," said Patriarch Monkey. "Unfortunately, his opponent is Sect Master."


    And a distance away.


    Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword, unleashing his killer blows again and again.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword was extremely sharp and it contained the charms of the Stars Like Rain. The blade tip made tiny tears in the void as it flew, but when it struck the ox fiend''s body, he found that not only was its head not a vital spot, it was actually the ox fiend''s strongest spot. As for the front of his chest, back, legs and other spots, only a bloody hole was produced. These were only considered superficial wounds.


    But Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s massive body was fully able to withstand his strikes.


    ¡­


    The remnant core disciples in the sect''s grand hall heaved a collective sigh of relief when they saw this turn of events. Some even said with a smile, "Sect Master''s fiendbody rejuvenates rapidly, perhaps faster than he can be injured."


    "Although Qin Yun is powerful, he can''t do a thing to Sect Master! Furthermore, Sect Master is using the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array to attack him. He needs to put so much effort into just fending off the attacks. To be in such an intense skirmish while controlling a Numinous treasure, it drains just too much of his Dharmic powers. He definitely can''t last long like this."


    "He''s ultimately a mortal! Not only are his Dharmic powers insufficient, just diverting his attention to control a Dharma treasure drains one mentally. It''s likely that he will soon be both mentally and physically exhausted."


    The core disciples discussed inside the hall.


    They definitely believed that their sect master would win given time.


    "Now that he is trapped inside our Boor Ancestral Sect, he can forget about escaping."


    "I wonder how he managed to infiltrate our lair in the first place."


    "He probably concealed his identity and aura. However, now that he has exposed himself, our Boor Ancestral Sect array formations have activated and surrounded the area. There is no way for him to escape again."


    "Yes, we have to kill him to avenge our junior sisters and junior brothers."


    These fiendish demons were all very confident.


    ******


    Many array formations protected the Boor Ancestral Sect, and they had been improved upon for hundreds of thousands of years. And beyond the array formations were Ancestral Master Zhang, Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, Skydemon Palatial Lord, East Sea Skydragon, and Patriarch Bai. All six of them had gathered to destroy the sect and, apart from Human Emperor''s avatar, they had all come in their true forms.


    "Whoosh."


    Ancestral Master Zhang watched everything that was happening with his Eye of Lightning. Furthermore, he cast a Water Mirror Spell, projecting everything he saw onto a water mirror.


    The water mirror presented the scene of the battle inside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    The Misty Rain Sword had cast Stars Like Rain to dodge the obstruction of the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array. It continuously struck different spots of the ox fiend''s body.


    "I always knew that the ox fiend''s body was powerful and I have also heard of their cornerstone array, the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array, but I have never seen him use it before," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I never expected that the array formation''s powers made this ox fiend''s strength multiply so much."


    "The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array is also influencing Qin Yun''s flying sword." Patriarch Bai frowned as well. "Although the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array''s might is weaker than the ox fiend with his surge of strength, its irregularity and fast speed, as well as it being good at trapping enemies, present too many hindrances for Qin Yun to crack the array formations."


    Skydemon Palatial Lord watched intently, her eyes filled with a cold glimmer. She felt anxious but there was nothing she could do either.


    "If nothing can be done, we should temporarily retreat. At the very least, Qin Yun has killed almost all the Boor Ancestral Sect''s fiendish demon disciples. That still reduces quite a bit of the scourge," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    The ones that truly wreaked havoc in the world were the fiendish demon disciples.


    After all, real fiendcelestials could not engage in mindless slaughter due to the limitations of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Those ordinary fiendish demon disciples are not worth mentioning," said East Sea Skydragon coldly. "In but a few centuries, the Boor Ancestral Sect will have thousands of ordinary fiendish demons gathered once again! They are only the leaves! Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and the other fiendcelestials are the main branches! The Boor Ancestral Sect can only be considered destroyed if those fiendcelestials are killed."


    "We can''t enter, unfortunately," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    The array formations that protected the sect might have been powerful, but with their strength, they could easily blast through them if they put their minds to it! However, the large number of innocent mortals that lived inside the array formations would be pulverized upon their destruction. With so many mortals dying, it would naturally incur the punishment of the Heavenly Dao! The Heavenly Courts might even take note in that case.


    After all, they were just too invincible. If they were not limited, any Skyimmortal could slaughter billions of mortals easily. If that happened, mortals would truly be no different from beasts.


    "We can only count on Qin Yun. If there''s nothing we can do, we shall deliberate this matter later. Destroying the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons is just too difficult," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa calmly.


    ¡­


    And inside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    As Qin Yun cast the Cyclic Sword Flash with his Heavy Water Sword to resist the ox fiend''s tumultuous strikes, he spent most of his efforts directing the Misty Rain Sword to dodge the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array while striking the ox fiend again and again.


    "After more than twelve consecutive attacks, I have found no weak point?" Qin Yun was surprised to discover this.


    Yi Xiao watched from the side and realized that the situation was becoming increasingly risky.


    "Sect Master Boor Ancestral might not be comparable to the peak third Firmament fiendcelestials chosen from the top sects in the Effulgent Great World but with the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array''s augmentation, he is able to match a Skyfiend," thought Qin Yun. "However, he has an inconspicuous weakness compared to a real Skyfiend."


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Sword did a bend, striking one of the fiendish blades before heading straight for the ox fiend.


    This time, it was extremely gentle like a breezy cloud.


    Like a gentle wind and a thin drizzle.


    It was a very ordinary strike!


    "Oh?" Sect Master Boor Ancestral was slightly puzzled when he saw it coming. "Why is it so weak now?"


    The flying sword was still extremely fast despite it looking ordinary. It instantly stabbed Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s back.


    This stab widened Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s eyes immediately. A terrifying force that appeared extremely frail transmitted through his body, heading straight for his massive heart.


    "Bam!" His heart twitched violently as many cracks ran along his body''s interior.


    It made Sect Master Boor Ancestral feel faint, and he could not help but stumble as his legs went limp. He immediately genuflected and lowered the ax head to the ground to stabilize himself.


    His heart had extremely terrifying vital strength, so he naturally recovered rapidly.


    "This is¡­" Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s eyes were filled with alarmed rage.


    "What happened?"


    Aged Fiend Goat Horn and Patriarch Monkey stood up suddenly inside the sect''s hall. Their faces were plastered with panic.


    The other fiendcelestials and core disciples standing beneath them turned nervous!


    Their sect master augmented by the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array was the strongest thing their Boor Ancestral Sect had.


    "It''s indeed effective!" Qin Yun was delighted to see the outcome.


    He had just cast the sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword¡ªFirst Lightning Encounter.


    Every Dreamlike Sword move had a particular inclination! For instance, the Bright Moon Cold Nights mainly froze the void and even anything that moved inside a frozen body. It trapped the enemy in an extreme cold. The Waning Waxing Moons was unpredictable with its unfathomable attacks, and the newest Stars Like Rain formed numerous meteor showers and was the sharpest and most indomitable attack due to its sheer volume.


    As for First Lightning Encounter, it was the most gentle strike. It contained Qin Yun''s emotions.


    The extremely soft strike was able to permeate an enemy''s body before exploding inside of it. Of course, thanks to the various obstructions that one''s Dharmic powers and body posed, the amount of effective power of the final hit was thirty to forty percent of the original strike. Yet, this was already extremely formidable. Ordinary strikes seldom dealt much damage to a powerful fiendbody''s internals.


    "This Sect Master Boor Ancestral is a peak third Firmament fiendcelestial after all! His body''s surface is augmented by an array formation which results in his increased strength and defense. But his heart remains the heart of a third Firmament fiendcelestial. This is the flaw of using an external force, it prevents him from being a true Skyfiend!" thought Qin Yun.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun cast First Lightning Encounter once again.


    As his Sword Dao realm enhanced, the first six moves of the Dreamlike Sword were being constantly perfected while drawing on his experience. First Lightning Encounter was similarly being perfected.


    The second cast showed an obvious improvement.


    "No good." Sect Master Boor Ancestral tried to defend by brandishing his large ax.


    However, in terms of agility, how could a huge ax compare with a flying sword?


    The flying sword remained ordinary, like an extremely gentle sword, as it stabbed into Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s chest.


    "Bam!"


    The might was twenty percent stronger than before.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s heart quaked so loudly that it could even be heard from outside. It could be seen with the naked eye that his chest had swelled up before collapsing.


    "Pfft." A mouthful of blood spewed out of Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s mouth.


    "No!"


    He clenched his teeth, his eyes red. He crushed a yellowish wooden token, enhancing his speed by more than ten times. His figure turned into a blur as he quickly headed for the sect''s grand hall. At the same time, he sent an angry voice transmission, "Skyfiend Jiuhu, my Boor Ancestral Sect can''t last much longer! Quickly take action! Quick!"


    In the hidden residence in the Boor Ancestral Sect, the luxuriously-dressed thin man that sat cross-legged heard the voice transmission. He frowned slightly as a hint of anger suffused his long, foxy eyes.


    He responded with a voice transmission, "Sect Master Boor Ancestral, try to hold out by yourself. I cannot be exposed or Empyrean Lord''s plans will be ruined! Your Boor Ancestral Sect''s sacrifice will be greatly rewarded by Empyrean Lord!"


    "I''m about to die! What use are rewards!?" Sect Master Boor Ancestral roared angrily with a voice transmission.

 416 Fiendcelestial Worlds Empyrean Lord

    Chapter 416: Fiendcelestial World''s Empyrean Lord


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Die!"


    As Qin Yun continued to gain experience from the battle, he released his Misty Rain Sword thrice.


    After Sect Master Boor Ancestral crushed the yellowish wooden token, his speed increased by more than ten times. The Misty Rain Sword managed to stab his back with the gentle strike again just as he arrived in front of the protected grand hall.


    "Pfft!" Sect Master Boor Ancestral spewed large mouthfuls of blood as his body halted in midair. His body collapsed to the ground but his eyes lit up the instant he fell. He used his limbs to push off from the ground as he gritted his teeth to charge straight into the black barrier of light that protected the sect''s grand hall.


    "Sect Master."


    "Sect Master."


    Patriarch Monkey and Aged Fiend Goat Horn rushed over to help him.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral had already been reduced to his original height. He looked terrible and his eyes were red. There were traces of blood at the corner of his mouth and he held one hand to his chest, clearly finding it difficult to breathe.


    "Sect Master, are you alright?" asked Aged Fiend Goat Horn immediately.


    "A little better than dead." Sect Master Boor Ancestral found even panting tiring. He chuckled softly. "My heart has been shattered into dozens of pieces."


    "What!?" Patriarch Monkey and Aged Fiend Goat Horn panicked.


    "I will not be able to fight like this," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral. "This Qin Yun¡­ his flying sword is just too odd. His attack is able to reach straight into my body, spreading across my heart. It triggered inside of my heart! Thankfully I have cultivated my Great Strength Ox Fiendbody to the seventh level. If not, it wouldn''t only be dozens of pieces. It would have been pulverized to dust. Perhaps my Essence Soul would also have been vanquished on the spot."


    "Sect Master, rest for now." Patriarch Monkey''s wizened face was filled with coldness. "Leave the rest to that Skyfiend. Our Boor Ancestral Sect is in this predicament today all because of them! They can forget about standing idly on the sidelines!"


    "Yes, if our Boor Ancestral Sect were to be eradicated, they can forget about staying aloof from the world. At most, we will all die together!" Aged Fiend Goat Horn growled softly.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral nodded slightly.


    As they conversed, they returned to the grand hall.


    ¡­


    And outside the Boor Ancestral Sect, Ancestral Master Zhang and company were watching the entire battle through the water mirror. When Qin Yun''s flying sword caused Sect Master Boor Ancestral to stumble and fall, to the point of genuflecting and requiring the ax to support his body, all of them revealed looks of delight.


    "Nice!" Patriarch Bai shouted out in joy.


    "Beautiful," said Human Emperor with a laugh. "Qin Yun''s strike might look ordinary and even seems lacking in momentum, but when it stabs that ox fiend''s body, he can''t handle it even if there aren''t any wounds on his surface!"


    "Look, he just spat out blood after the second strike." Skydemon Palatial Lord''s eyes lit up as well. Her voice was more melodious than music.


    "He was quick to escape," commented East Sea Skydragon.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa nodded. "Years ago, the ox fiend had used a treasure. It made his speed increase more than ten times. I couldn''t even chase up to him if I wanted to. However, a sword immortal''s flying sword is very fast to begin with. At Qin Yun''s realm, his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s speed is above that of the ox fiend''s. He just got hit a third time. What a pity. He managed to escape into the grand hall."


    "He was just a little short."


    "That ox fiend fell to the ground in the end. He''s at the end of his road."


    All of them spoke with joyful looks on their faces.


    This was because everyone knew that escaping into the sect''s grand hall meant nothing. The fiends'' situation was still like that of a locust in late autumn. They could not last much longer.


    ******


    Behind the sect''s grand hall, there was a secret residence.


    Light warped in front of a luxuriously-dressed thin man that sat cross-legged in midair. The light vaguely manifested as three blurry figures. They were none other than Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn. They manifested themselves as phantoms through an array formation.


    "Skyfiend Jiuhu, my Boor Ancestral Sect won''t last much longer," bellowed Aged Fiend Goat Horn immediately. "We''re well past the point in time where you should make a move."


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral and Patriarch Monkey''s phantoms were staring intently at the man, gauging his reaction.


    The man had a nasty expression as he said in a deep voice, "Your Boor Ancestral Sect has been in existence for hundreds of thousands of years. Yet you can''t even last against a single mortal sword immortal like Qin Yun?"


    "Is this our fault?" Sect Master Boor Ancestral said through gritted teeth. "Brother Monkey has cast the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array, an array with might capable of matching a Skyfiend! That Qin Yun managed to easily defend against it¡­ I was even aided by the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array, making my body extremely powerful. Even a true Skyfiend might not be my match in that environment. Who knew that a mortal sword immortal like him could manage to crack my heart with one strike? His strength is probably a lot more powerful than some real Skyfiends."


    The man fell silent at that.


    In fact¡­


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword already had the strength to match a Skyfiend back in the Effulgent Great World.


    After he figured out Stars Like Rain, the other six moves of the Dreamlike Sword naturally transformed and became perfected. His overall strength was also enhanced. He was already the match of third Firmament Skyimmortals! Typical Skyfiends were not really Qin Yun''s match.


    "Bam!"


    Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword to strike the sect''s grand hall.


    The man looked into the distance. The trio was also watching with building anxiety.


    "We can''t last much longer! His attacks can be ferocious and oppressive, or sharp and indomitable, or extremely soft and light. Our array formations can only hold back one kind of attack, not all the attacks he has," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral urgently.


    "How much longer can you last? Is there any hope of binding him and ensuring the existence of the Boor Ancestral Sect?" asked the man.


    "Impossible!" Aged Fiend Goat Horn said quickly. "Just us alone will not be able to ensure the Boor Ancestral Sect''s safety. Sect Master is currently severely injured and unable to put up a fight. Even if he tried, it''d be equivalent to sending himself to die! We can only hide in the sect''s grand hall¡­ The only thing that can hold back Qin Yun''s flying sword is the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array. The other array formations are just too weak. The effects they have on the Intrinsic Flying Sword are just too trivial."


    Patriarch Monkey added, "Facing just the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array alone, the strength that Qin Yun has presented allows him to use two treasures. One of them can defend against the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array while the other slowly cracks the array. He will be able to destroy the ancient array formations of our Boor Ancestral Sect one by one from the inside. The more the array formations are damaged, the easier it is for reinforcements to attack from the outside world¡­ Daoist Divine Firmament and company could easily storm in. All of them are at the level of Skygods, Skyimmortals, and Bodhisattvas! We are only barely able to match a Skygod inside our sect through the augmentation of array formations. They, on the other hand, are real Skygods or Skyimmortals! Furthermore, Daoist Divine Firmament is the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple¡­ His strength is truly formidable. If he storms in, we are doomed! We would definitely perish!"


    "Even if we expend all our treasures, we will at most last five minutes," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral in a deep voice. "That is the most that we can do."


    "Five minutes?" The thin man frowned.


    He then nodded and said, "Alright, I''ll report this matter to Empyrean Lord. He will decide on what to do."


    The phantoms of Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn exchanged looks. They were all extremely on edge.


    All members of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons had backers! However, most of them were from different fiendcelestial worlds.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect''s backer was from a relatively more powerful fiendcelestial world.


    "Wu¡ª"


    The man took out a cornett. It silently connected to a distant world across space.


    "Rip!"


    A rift appeared in front of him. It revealed a figure in a distant space. The figure sat on a throne and had two curved horns! Its body was shrouded in a blurry darkness.


    "Empyrean Lord." The man bowed reverently.


    "Greetings, Empyrean Lord." The phantoms of Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn also bowed respectfully.


    The blurry figure looked over.


    "Empyrean Lord, there are some unforeseen circumstances that have happened in the Great Chang world," said the man respectfully. "That Qin Yun suddenly infiltrated the Boor Ancestral Sect. He even saved his wife, Yi Xiao! His strength is presently extremely brilliant. Although he remains mortal, his strength is in no way weaker to real Skygods or Skyfiends! The Boor Ancestral Sect can''t last much longer against him. If I do not take action, the Boor Ancestral Sect will definitely be destroyed! And once the Boor Ancestral Sect is destroyed, the array formations that we have spent a decade setting up in the Boor Ancestral Sect are bound to be exposed. But if I were to take action, I''ll definitely expose my identity as a Skyfiend. I would also incur the suspicion of Daoist Divine Firmament and the rest. If they investigate the matter thoroughly, everything we set up in the Boor Ancestral Sect would still be exposed. Empyrean Lord, please give your orders on what we should do now."


    The man spoke extremely reverentially and after he was done, he waited obediently for orders.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect trio did not dare utter a word.


    After all, for a long period of time¡­ their Boor Ancestral Sect''s backer was the existence right in front of them.


    The blurry figure fell silent for a moment before saying, "Destroy everything that has been set up in the Boor Ancestral Sect. Do not leave any traces. You must not let Daoist Divine Firmament and company discover it! As for the four of you, abandon the Boor Ancestral Sect. Use whatever means you have to escape."

 417 In a Bid to Survive

    Chapter 417: In a Bid to Survive


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The thin man was somewhat astonished. They were to give up everything that had been in the works for so long?


    But he did not dare disobey Empyrean Lord''s orders, especially when right in front of him. He politely replied, "Yes, I understand."


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn exchanged looks.


    "Empyrean Lord." Sect Master Boor Ancestral bowed and said with a sycophantic smile, "We spent ten grueling years setting up that array formation. All sorts of rare treasures were sent here from the fiendcelestial world, many of which I can''t even identify. But the ones I can¡­ are at least medial-grade Numinous treasures. Are we really just going to destroy them? Isn''t that too huge a price to pay?"


    "Yes, shouldn''t we fight it out? Are we really abandoning everything to escape?" Aged Fiend Goat Horn said immediately. "Isn''t that too cowardly?"


    Although Patriarch Monkey did not say a word, he also looked at Empyrean Lord expectantly.


    Although the trio had regarded him with smiles hanging from their faces, they were clearly disagreeable with his decision.


    "Oh?"


    In the distant space, high atop a throne, the figure masked shrouded in darkness frowned as he looked at the three fiendcelestials.


    "What impudence!" The thin man shouted in a shocked rage. "How can Empyrean Lord''s orders be disobeyed?"


    "Yes, yes, yes." Aged Fiend Goat Horn chuckled in reply. "Our Boor Ancestral Sect has lasted to this day all thanks to the treasures and manuals Empyrean Lord has bestowed on us. The gratitude we have towards Empyrean Lord¡­ is remembered by every generation of our Boor Ancestral Sect. We only serve Empyrean Lord. We have also never hesitated to do your murderous bidding. However, now that you ask us to abandon the Boor Ancestral Sect and escape for our lives, that is not something we are capable of."


    "We can''t do it." Sect Master Boor Ancestral and Patriarch Monkey said in unison.


    "If the three of you stay alive, it will not be difficult to reestablish the Boor Ancestral Sect in the future," said the man immediately.


    "Skyfiend Jiuhu," Sect Master Boor Ancestral turned his head to bow at Empyrean Lord. "Empyrean Lord, we do not mind abandoning the Boor Ancestral Sect! After all, reestablishing it isn''t that difficult, it''s true. But to ask us to flee for our lives? Right now, there''s Qin Yun inside the sect and Daoist Divine Firmament and company outside. How are we to escape?"


    "Shut down the array formations that isolate the sect in the Boor Ancestral Sect. When the time comes, the four of us are to immediately use a Void Transference treasure to escape! As long as you are fast enough, there will still be hope," said the man.


    "Hmph!"


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn looked at the man with a sneer.


    "Hope?" Aged Fiend Goat Horn scoffed and said, "That Qin Yun has definitely reached the Skyimmortal realm. One strike of his can seal the void! That might be ignored, but Daoist Divine Firmament, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon Palatial Lord, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and the rest are just outside the sect. They will immediately discover that our Boor Ancestral Sect''s isolation array formations have been shut down. They will probably instantly seal the surrounding space. Trying to escape before they seal off the area? Void Transference isn''t that fast!"


    "Just think of a way to confuse them," said the man. "After which, you can seek the right opportunity to flee."


    "Hmph!"


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral looked coldly at the thin man. "There''s Qin Yun inside and there are powerful existences outside! We do not even have a ten percent chance of successfully escaping! You want us to escape? Hmph! Even if you are about to die, Empyrean Lord will probably help receive you. If the three of us die, there will truly be no return."


    "You want us to flee? Only if there is more than a fifty percent chance of surviving will we risk it. If not, we are only sending ourselves to our deaths," said Aged Fiend Goat Horn.


    "Forgive us for we are unable to agree to it," said Patriarch Monkey.


    "The three of you. How bold of you to actually¡­" the man said in anger.


    "I can promise to receive all of you after you reincarnate and awaken your memories," said Empyrean Lord as he looked from afar.


    "Receive us?"


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, and Aged Fiend Goat Horn exchanged looks.


    "We are not reincarnating voluntarily but would die in combat. Who knows where we will be reincarnated?" said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a shake of his head. "Without any target, finding our reincarnated bodies and awakening our memories is already an extremely difficult task. To do it for three, would you really go through that much trouble? Are you willing to pay such a huge cost? We are not Skyfiends. We are only three peak third Firmament fiendcelestials. Empyrean Lord, the truth is you think nothing of us and are just beguiling us, isn''t it?"


    At the other end of the distant space, the eyes of the blurry figure blanketed by darkness shimmered.


    They were only three tiny ants!


    Yet, they dared¡­


    If they were really physically in front of it, just one look would be enough to obliterate the three ants.


    "How impudent the three of you are," shouted Jiuhu.


    "If we give up," said Aged Fiend Goat Horn. "You want us to send ourselves to our deaths? We were demons to begin with. We entered the Boor Ancestral Sect to seek immortality, to seek freedom, not to die!"


    "Even an Empyrean Lord has no right to send us to our deaths!" said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a sneer.


    What were fiends?


    For themselves, they could sacrifice the billions of lives in their homeworlds without a second thought. When it came to their own life and death, so what if they lost decorum with an Empyrean Lord?


    Furthermore, they weren''t very afraid of the fiendcelestial.


    What was there to be afraid of when they were separated by distant space?


    Even in the history of the Boor Ancestral Sect, seniors that had their strength reach the Skyfiend realm would not dare to try the Heavenly Tribulation in the Great Chang world. They would enter the Other Realm cosmos and rush¡­ to a slightly further fiendcelestial world to survive the Heavenly Tribulations there.


    The world Empyrean Lord was in was just too far!


    There was no way to get there!


    Therefore, the trio would rather choose to be refugees in the Other Realm cosmos, for there was no way they could find Empyrean Lord''s world. It was impossible for them to ever encounter Empyrean Lord in person, so losing decorum meant nothing.


    "The three of us understand." Patriarch Monkey''s wrinkled face had a smile. "That mysterious array formation was set up by Skyfiend Jiuhu. To destroy it? Perhaps Skyfiend Jiuhu can destroy it without us knowing it. We can''t stop him! But¡­ that mysterious array formation is something the three of us have seen with our own eyes. If you force us, we will tell Daoist Divine Firmament and company everything. We will describe the mysterious array formation thoroughly to them. I believe that, as a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor, Daoist Divine Firmament will be able to guess what the mysterious array formation is from the information we provide! He will know what your plans are."


    The thin man had a nasty look on his face.


    "We do not want to cooperate with Daoist Divine Firmament and company. After all, we ultimately belong to the fiendcelestial lineage. However, if you pressure us we will not hesitate to do so," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a smile. "Sect Master Boor Ancestral, our request is simple. All we want is to live. As long as we live, the three of us are still willing¡­ to continue serving Empyrean Lord!"


    "Yes, we are willing to serve Empyrean Lord," added Aged Fiend Goat Horn.


    The thin man raised his head to look at Empyrean Lord situated across distant space on the other end of the void rift.


    Empyrean Lord gave the three tiny ants a good look.


    All this time¡­ the Boor Ancestral Sect had always been obedient. He was already accustomed to them being obedient towards his every instruction.


    "In order to live, you dare throw away decorum with me? Hmph, they are only this bold because they are separated by distant space. If they were here with me, I would have long planted Mental Demon Seeds in them." Empyrean Lord was secretly raging. "I never expected that the plan I have been scheming for so long would end up being forced to this point by three tiny ants."


    The construction of the array formation did not allow for any mistakes.


    It was the reason why it was constructed inside the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair!


    Empyrean Lord instinctively believed that it would take a hundred years to finish constructing the array formation. It was unlikely anyone could overrun the Boor Ancestral Sect in that century! After all, the Boor Ancestral Sect had been in existence for hundreds of thousands of years.


    He never accounted for such a major slip up.


    Qin Yun had managed to silently enter the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair! Furthermore, he was too powerful!


    Now these three ants even dared to threaten him in order to live.


    "If they were to tell everything to Daoist Divine Firmament, then all my plans will be exposed." Empyrean Lord chagrined. "Darn it."


    "Empyrean Lord."


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral continued his plea. "All we need is Skyfiend Jiuhu to help us fend off Qin Yun! Skyfiend Jiuhu''s realm is a lot higher than ours. If he were to take action, and we aided him¡­ there is a chance of us trapping Qin Yun. If we manage to do so, preventing him from destroying the array formation and hence, stopping Daoist Divine Firmament and company from entering, our Boor Ancestral Sect would be safe. Empyrean Lord, your array formation will also be safe. As for Skyfiend Jiuhu''s identity? So what if they suspect him to be a Skyfiend? It''s not as though Skyfiends have never descended into the Great Chang world before. They would not be able to guess your true motives."


    From afar, Empyrean Lord watched the single-horned ox fiend speak and thought to himself. "Fool. Once they discover the existence of a Skyfiend, Daoist Divine Firmament and company will definitely be alarmed. They will investigate the matter thoroughly. It''s impossible to prevent exposure."


    Although he understood this point, Empyrean Lord had no other solution at the moment.


    Across such distant space, what use were immense Dharmic powers?


    "Jiuhu," instructed Empyrean Lord finally. "In that case, listen to the three of them. Help them to ensure the safety of the Boor Ancestral Sect! If you can''t¡­ trigger the array formation."


    "Trigger it?" Skyfiend Jiuhu was alarmed.


    "Yes, move out ahead of time! Although it''s a little rushed, it''s better to try it if it''s about to be exposed. Perhaps it might even succeed..." said Empyrean Lord. With that said, he shot a glance at the delighted trio. He had originally planned on destroying the array formation without a trace and finding an opportunity to construct another one. He did not care if he lost some treasures and a few more decades.


    But the trio had forced him to hasten the movement.


    "Whoosh." As the void rift closed, Empyrean Lord''s figure vanished.

 418 Skyfiend Jiuhus Strength

    Chapter 418: Skyfiend Jiuhu''s Strength


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Skyfiend Jiuhu shot a glance at Sect Master Boor Ancestral and company, eyes filled with rage. He thought to himself, "These three ants actually dare show Empyrean Lord disrespect! Once the array formation is activated, the vast armies of my fiendcelestial world will arrive. Then they will know the price of disobeying Empyrean Lord!"


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s phantom chuckled instead. "Skyfiend Jiuhu, Empyrean Lord mentioned triggering the array formation early. What will be moved out ahead of time?"


    "Yes, what exactly is the array formation for?" asked Aged Fiend Goat Horn sycophantically as well.


    "All of you are aware that Empyrean Lord plants a Mental Demon Skyfiend in every subordinate of his," said Jiuhu indifferently. "If I tried to leak the secret of the array formation, I would have my soul dissipated even before I could even form the words."


    "Yes, yes!"


    The trio exchanged looks and did not press further.


    "Everything that follows will rely on you now!" said Sect Master Boor Ancestral with a boisterous laugh. "As long as you can hold back Qin Yun, ensuring the Boor Ancestral Sect''s safety means ensuring the safety of Empyrean Lord''s array formation! In that way, the longer you stall for time, the more perfect the setting up of the array formation will be. Perhaps we might even stall long enough for the array formation to reach its most perfect level."


    "Let''s hope so," said Jiuhu.


    Yet, he knew deep down. "Empyrean Lord needs time to rally the troops too. I will try my best to stall for time. The more time I buy, the more time there is for Empyrean Lord to make his preparations."


    ******


    Flowery fragrance permeated the surroundings.


    Qin Yun held his wife''s hand as they looked into the distance.


    The Misty Rain Sword was striking the sect''s grand hall relentlessly.


    "Boom!"


    The grand hall was barely holding up.


    The fiendcelestial trio was powering the array formation with all they had. The disciples and fiendcelestials in the grand hall watched as they shuddered in fear, afraid the hall would fail to hold.


    "We are doomed!"


    "Even Sect Master is hiding in the hall because of his heavy injuries. He does not even dare try to escape. And now, they are only barely holding up through the use of treasures."


    "Even a perpetual defense is bound to fail. Once the hall''s defenses are broken through, knowing Qin Yun''s habit of ridding the world of fiendish demons, he will definitely not spare us."


    "Darn it. I do not wish to die with the sect. Junior Sister, you are much cleverer than me. Do you have any ideas?"


    "Let me think about it. Let me think carefully."


    A tiger demon and a female snake demoness conversed over a voice transmission.


    At that moment, not only were these two disciples in panic, the other disciples were feeling the same as well.


    And at that moment¡ª


    "Qin Yun, you wish to destroy my Boor Ancestral Sect? It won''t be that easy!" Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s voice roared like thunder as it reverberated through the region.


    "Oh?" The disciples in the grand hall were alarmed. Did their Boor Ancestral Sect have other means at its disposal?


    And a distance away.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were watching intently.


    "Brother Jiuhu, everything now rests on you." Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s voice continued reverberating through the region.


    "I have been residing in your Boor Ancestral Sect for quite some time. It''s time for me to showcase my strength for once." A cold voice resounded through the region, and a figure walked out from a hidden hall behind the sect''s grand hall. Every step he took covered a distance of a thousand feet. In a few steps, he arrived high in the sky above the sect''s grand hall.


    His thin figure was dressed in luxurious robes. He stared at Qin Yun with his long, slender, fox-like eyes.


    However, he emitted a billowing fiendish aura that corroded the surroundings. It caused the void itself to creak in response.


    "What a terrifying fiendish aura." Qin Yun looked from afar and was somewhat alarmed. "Judging from his aura, he''s a peak third Firmament fiendcelestial but his body feels even stronger than that of Sect Master Boor Ancestral? When has the Great Chang world ever had such a powerful fiendcelestial?"


    In the Great Chang world, the strength of a fiendcelestial''s physical body had always been inferior to the Buddhists and Daoists in general.


    "Who are you?" Qin Yun felt something was amiss as he bellowed. "It is impossible for a fiendcelestial of your strength to be unknown."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Jiuhu laughed. "I never expected that I, an Other Realm Fiendcelestial, would encounter a person like you in the Great Chang world. You match the strength of a Skyfiend with only a mortal''s body. If you were captured alive and handed over to Empyrean Lord, Empyrean Lord would definitely reward me handsomely."


    "Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "Is that very strange? Back when we attacked the Great Chang world, there were many fiendcelestials that entered the Great Chang world. I only remained here because of my heavy injuries," said Jiuhu.


    Jiuhu knew very well. "The later the secret of the array formation is discovered, the better Empyrean Lord''s preparations will be! It''s best I do not reveal the fact that I reincarnated into the Great Chang world. After all, Wuha, Moquan, Huangchong, and I add up to four who reincarnated into the Great Chang world! Once they confirm that I also reincarnated into the Great Chang world, they will definitely guess that¡­ Empyrean Lord is plotting a huge invasion."


    It was very difficult to reincarnate into another world to begin with.


    It was clearly suspicious if several beings were reincarnated consecutively in a short span of time.


    "But if I reveal my full strength, and knowing Daoist Divine Firmament''s intelligence, he will probably guess something. Sigh, I have no other thing I can do. I was forced into this all because of these three fools." Jihu sighed inwardly.


    ¡­


    Outside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    Daoist Divine Firmament, Human Emperor, East Sea Skydragon, and company were watching everything that appeared in the water mirror.


    "An Other Realm Fiendcelestial?" Human Emperor said perplexed. "An Other Realm Fiendcelestial that stayed behind after the huge war in the past?"


    "He was not imprisoned and even managed to hide in silence for so long?" Daoist Divine Firmament frowned slightly. "Other Realm Fiendcelestials should not be that patient."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment. An Other Realm Fiendcelestial that remained behind?


    "Move aside. I can agree to spare you," said Qin Yun. His goal was to destroy the array formations as fast as possible, allowing Daoist Divine Firmament and company to storm in. As for the Other Realm Fiendcelestial? Once Daoist Divine Firmament and company were inside, dealing with him would be even easier!


    "Haha, how is it possible for all of you to spare an Other Realm Fiendcelestial like me? Besides, you are not my match," said Jiuhu.


    Although he said this, he did not take any action.


    He was deliberately stalling for time.


    "Cut the crap!"


    Qin Yun knitted his brows.


    Whoosh.


    The Misty Rain Sword in midair turned and shot towards Jiuhu.


    Jiuhu''s body immediately grew fine black hair. A pair of black wings grew from his ribcage as his fingers turned as sharp as talons. He extended his claws and grabbed one blood-colored knife in each hand.


    "Kill!" Jiuhu flicked his claws as the two blood-colored knives spun out, clashing with the Misty Rain Sword in an unpredictable manner.


    "Hmph! My Twin Lunar Fiend Knives can do melee and long-ranged combat. With them I can match ordinary Skyfiends in long-range combat. Although my current Dharmic powers are slightly weaker, it''ll be enough to deter him a little. Although he did defeat that ox fiend, it''s only because the ox fiend was too weak." Jiuhu was filled with confidence.


    "Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword attacked with its most domineering attack, the fifth move of the Dreamlike Sword, Traveling in Solitude.


    This strike was so oppressive that it could render the skies asunder.


    After repeatedly attacking the sect''s grand hall, Qin Yun''s Traveling in Solitude had been perfected. It had reached a whole new level. It was already at the same level as Stars Like Rain. However, it was of a different nature. One was inclined towards pure strength, while the other was inclined towards speed and extreme sharpness.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    The two battle knives spun as they crossed each other from two different directions in a bid to hold back Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    But with a loud boom, the Misty Rain Sword transformed into a sword flash a thousand feet wide. It pushed through the two combat knives without any resistance. The mystic runes on them instantly dissipated as they were sent flying backward.


    "What?" Skyfiend Jiuhu was alarmed.


    He had been watching from afar previously, not knowing that Qin Yun''s sword moves were being constantly improved and perfected.


    Therefore, he had made a mistake in judging Qin Yun''s strength.


    "He got utterly defeated almost instantly?" Aged Fiend Goat Horn stared with widened eyes from inside the grand hall. "Didn''t he brag a lot? Isn''t he the reincarnation of a Skyfiend?"


    "That''s only a long-distance attack. Perhaps he is stronger at melee combat." Sect Master Boor Ancestral said this but was uncertain as well.


    "Kill!"


    The faraway Qin Yun continued directing the Misty Rain Sword.


    A wisp of misty rain coruscated around Jiuhu in an unfathomable fashion.


    At times, it would manifest as a burning meteor, casting Stars Like Rain! Sometimes, it would be the domineering Traveling in Solitude! And at other times, it would be gentle and converged as First Lightning Encounter. The myriad changes in the sword moves, along with the flying sword being extremely fast, caused the combat knife-wielding Skyfiend Jiuhu to be covered in bloody wounds. He was stuck on the defensive, unable to muster a counterattack.


    "He is stronger than I expected. How is he this strong? Is-is this the strength of a sword immortal?" Jiuhu''s body was indeed extremely strong and his two battle knives had mystical properties but he could barely hold on.


    "Skyfiend Jiuhu, didn''t you say you were going to capture Qin Yun alive?" asked Sect Master Boor Ancestral in a nervous voice transmission.


    "This Qin Yun is too strong. Furthermore, the might of his flying sword moves are constantly increasing." Jiuhu turned anxious as well.

 419 Cosmic World

    Chapter 419: Cosmic World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside the Boor Ancestral Sect, Ancestral Master Zhang and company were all alarmed.


    "This Other Realm Skyfiend is really strong," commented Patriarch Bai. "He clearly is only a third Firmament fiendcelestial but he has strength that matches that of a Skyfiend. Look at his saber arts. They are extremely intricate. I will probably not be able to repress him without using the Stellar Heavenly Cycle."


    "How have we never heard of him before considering his potent strength?" said Ancestral Master Zhang with a frown.


    Skydemon Palatial Lord gritted her teeth and said anxiously, "Unfortunately, we can''t help in any way."


    "We can''t."


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa nodded slightly. "Qin Yun needs to first destroy a portion of the array formations inside, weakening the array formation so we can storm in. At this point in time, we can really only count on him."


    "This Boor Ancestral Sect is a lot stronger than we expected. And now there''s the addition of this mysterious Other Realm Fiendcelestial," said Daoist Divine Firmament. "Now, let''s see what Qin Yun is capable of."


    They could do nothing to the Boor Ancestral Sect after all this time.


    It was only because Qin Yun had obtained the Major Transference Dao talisman, allowing him to enter the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair directly, and his mortality, that gave them hope in destroying the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    ¡­


    "Oh?" Qin Yun controlled the Misty Rain Sword to attack Skyfiend Jiuhu from every angle.


    "No wonder he dares make such bold claims. His saber arts are very honed, and they flow into one another quite perfectly," thought Qin Yun. "They appeared to have been tempered and, despite my flying sword''s myriad of changes, I am only barely able to injure him? If not for my recent attainment of Stars Like Rain allowing my Sword Dao to improve, I might even be inferior to him!"


    The Other Realm Fiendcelestial in front of him was very powerful.


    He had an extremely strong body, both inside and outside! He was not like Sect Master Boor Ancestral who had an obvious weakness.


    The two battle knives were a set of inferior-grade Numinous treasures. His sword arts were mystical, greatly reducing the might of Qin Yun''s flying sword, making it so it barely injured him. Furthermore, the injuries were little more than scratches on his powerful fiendbody which he could rapidly recover from.


    "If I can''t kill him, I''ll temporarily trap him." Qin Yun had a thought.


    "Go."


    He waved his left hand.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    A black bangle flew out from his wrist and when it arrived near to Jiuhu, it scattered into six Cosmic Bangles that surrounded Jiuhu.


    "Cosmic World, entrap!" Qin Yun commanded.


    Immediately, the six Cosmic Bangles were triggered, forming an array formation world that only spanned half a kilometer. As for the Misty Rain Sword, it secretly retreated.


    "Oh?" Jiuhu looked at his surroundings. He had been trapped in the array formation world.


    "Begone!"


    Skyfiend Jiuhu was filled with confidence as both his combat knives formed a gigantic stream of light that cleaved at the array formation as it swept out its curved arc. "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The membrane of the array formation world distorted as countless runic patterns stirred in the world formed by the six Cosmic Bangles. But it was fully able to withstand Jiuhu''s ferocious attacks.


    "How is this possible? My Twin Lunar Fiend Knives are able to cleave apart a Grotto-heaven." Jiuhu reeled in disbelief as he continued his relentless assault.


    Rumble!


    His numerous strikes were either ferocious or ruthless but he was completely trapped in the Cosmic World.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun nodded his head when he saw this. "Each of the Cosmic Bangles has a world in and of itself. The six Cosmic Bangles together are able to form a powerful array formation world! My realm was previously lacking, preventing me from drawing out the true strength of the Cosmic Bangles. But now, my realm is sufficiently high."


    Among all the inferior-grade Numinous treasures, the Cosmic Bangles had always been most suitable for Qin Yun.


    That was because his Sword Dao pursued perfection like the Heavenly Cycles. Therefore, although he constantly created new sword moves, his most powerful one was always the defensive sword move, Cyclic Sword Flash.


    The Cosmic Bangles perfectly aligned with his Sword Dao and, now that his Dao realm had been greatly enhanced, the might it delivered was also more powerful.


    When it came to trapping enemies¡­


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was good at both the offensive and defensive. But in terms of trapping enemies or sealing, his sword wasn''t of much help. However, the Cosmic Bangles were extremely good in this aspect.


    "This, this¡­" Inside the sect''s grand hall, Aged Fiend Goat Horn said in shock, "Skyfiend Jiuhu has been trapped just like that?"


    "Qin Yun really has a lot of Numinous treasures. The divine sword that transformed into a hundred sword components was a Numinous treasure. Those bangles are considered a Numinous treasure too," said Patriarch Monkey.


    "Quick, aid me!" Jiuhu anxiously sent a voice transmission through his transmission treasure.


    "Brother Monkey, quickly use the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array to help Skyfiend Jiuhu," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral instantly. "Now that he''s trapped, we are in big trouble."


    "Alright."


    Patriarch Monkey nodded immediately.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array was still in pursuit of the Misty Rain Sword but it now gave up on its pursuit. Instead, it surrounded and attacked the Cosmic World.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The eight gigantic fiend sabers struck the floating bangles as Skyfiend Jiuhu attacked fervently from inside. The Cosmic World distorted slightly but managed to hold strong.


    Both inside and outside, there was a strength that matched that of Skyfiends attacking, but the Cosmic World clearly was not something so easily cracked!


    Every Numinous treasure had their individual strengths when refined. Due to the cultivator and the runic patterns formed by the Numinous treasure during its refinement, it was very difficult to find a perfect match, making the strength a treasure delivered usually quite ordinary. Therefore, when immortals or fiends chanced upon a Numinous treasure that was well-suited to them, they would use it perpetually. They would even ruminate over the runic patterns within the treasure to conform to it. Over time, that conformity would become more enhanced. Similarly, the might produced by the Numinous treasure would also increase with time.


    And the Cosmic Bangle was the one that conformed to Qin Yun the most amid his numerous Numinous treasures.


    This was also the reason why an Intrinsic Dharma treasure was so powerful! An Intrinsic Dharma treasure conformed absolutely and was even a part of one''s very being. As a result, it could deliver extraordinarily!


    "We still can''t crack it?"


    "It''s impregnable. We can''t save Skyfiend Jiuhu."


    Inside the hall, the three fiendcelestials were taken aback.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a meteor as it struck the hall again and again.


    The hall was being enveloped by a blurry purple light and it was on the verge of collapse.


    "Attack Qin Yun''s body," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral immediately. "Brother Monkey, use the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array to target Qin Yun''s body! He''ll need to use that Numinous treasure sword that can split into a hundred sword artifacts to withstand it. Then he''ll be powering the six black bangles as well as a hundred sword artifacts! Two Numinous treasures¡­ is too much of a burden for a mortal sword immortal like him. It''ll be impossible for him to divert his attention to cast other attacks."


    "Yes." Aged Fiend Goat Horn nodded immediately. "The burden on a mortal sword immortal from his powering of the Numinous treasures is just too great. Just controlling one inferior-grade Numinous treasure has a burden equivalent to controlling many transcendent-grade Dharma treasures."


    The burden on one''s Dharmic powers and the enervation of one''s mental strength were great.


    It was exhausting maintaining both.


    For a mortal sword immortal to be able to maintain two inferior-grade Numinous treasures was only a feat of Qin Yun''s pure Dharmic powers. Other Connate Golden Core cultivators were not even capable of handling the burden of one inferior-grade Numinous treasure.


    "Go!" Patriarch Monkey''s wrinkled face lit up with anticipation.


    The Eight Gates Fiend Sabers manifested and dissipated unpredictably and they moved extremely quickly.


    No one could hold them back as they darted straight for Qin Yun''s body.


    "It''s the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array again?" Qin Yun knitted his brows.


    Instead of a Numinous treasure, the Green Leaf Flying Sword flew out of his sleeve. With a whoosh, it transformed into the Cyclic Sword Flash to protect his surroundings. When the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array attacked once again, it was completely stopped by the Cyclic Sword Flash, unable to proceed a further inch.


    "It''s a flying sword in the shape of a leaf? The Green Leaf Flying Sword?"


    "It''s the transcendent-grade Green Leaf Flying Sword."


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral and company obviously recognized it. It was a transcendent-grade flying sword in the Great Chang world. Before Qin Yun''s rise, there were only two of them.


    "He can block our attacks with the mere cast of the Green Leaf Flying Sword?" Aged Fiend Goat Horn was taken aback. The burden a transcendent-grade flying sword had on Qin Yun was just too little!


    "Why didn''t he use that Numinous treasure?" Sect Master Boor Ancestral felt a little flustered.


    ¡­


    For his part, Qin Yun remained calm and composed.


    "I wasn''t very familiar with the Boor Ancestral Sect''s attacks in the beginning. I did not know how powerful their means were! To be safe, I used the Heavy Water Sword to cast Cyclic Sword Flash," thought Qin Yun. "Now that I understand the means at their disposal, and the Cyclic Sword Flash has been further perfected to a brand new level, I know how to best defend against them. Back in the Effulgent Great World, my Green Leaf Flying Sword was able to withstand the combat forces of two Skyfiends. Now with my increase in realm, the Green Leaf Flying Sword¡­ is not pressured in any way against the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array."


    He was the most confident when it came to defense.


    "The Cosmic Bangles have trapped the Other Realm Fiendcelestial while the Green Leaf Flying Sword protects me. I''ll keep the Heavy Water Sword by my side to prevent any unforeseen circumstances." Qin Yun watched from afar. "Now that the fiendcelestials in the Boor Ancestral Sect are hiding, with none of them daring to exit, I can continue destroying the array formations without worry. However, this Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array will be quite a hindrance. I''ll first destroy the hall and kill that trio. That will make cracking the array faster! Once Ancestral Master Zhang and company enter, we can vanquish that Other Realm Fiendcelestial together."


    Qin Yun was now filled with confidence.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral had been forced to hide from the beatings he suffered! The Other Realm Fiendcelestial was trapped inside the Cosmic World!


    The situation was completely under his control.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword continued attacking the sect''s grand hall.


    The layers of purple light on the hall''s exterior began to collapse before a yellow layer of light appeared. Behind the Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s throne, the three yellow mounted beads were becoming dimmer at a discernible pace.


    "Sect Master, it''s about to crack. It''s about to fall!" Aged Fiend Goat Horn panicked. Skyfiend Jiuhu was able to match Qin Yun but the three of them would be wiped out easily! Even their strongest sect master using the Ox Fiend Heaven Trampling Array would survive only two strikes of the sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword, First Lightning Encounter. He and Patriarch Monkey would die in one strike.


    "Skyfiend Jiuhu, we can''t hold on any longer! Not much longer!" Sect Master Boor Ancestral gripped his transmission treasure and urged with a panicked voice transmission.


    Inside the Cosmic World, Jiuhu had also stopped after not being able to crack open the Cosmic World through multiple consecutive strikes.


    He flipped his hand and produced a transmission treasure.


    "Skyfiend Jiuhu, isn''t there the array formation? Quickly trigger it! Quick!" The voice emitted out of the transmission treasure. "We will die if you delay any further!"


    "Don''t fool with us! If we are pressed into a corner, we will spill everything to Daoist Divine Firmament." The transmission treasure continued its transmission. Sect Master Boor Ancestral and company were clearly in a panic.


    Skyfiend Jiuhu''s long, slender eyes were filled with rage.


    "Empyrean Lord, I''m truly useless! I wanted to stall for more time, allowing our fiendcelestial world to be greater prepared. I have no choice now. This Qin Yun''s strength is indeed much greater than I expected." Jiuhu had a fierce glimmer in his eyes. "I''ll trigger it then! I''ll let the Great Chang world know of our prowess! Let the fiendcelestial army of our world trample flat the Great Chang world!"


    His left claw formed a hand seal.


    Buzz.


    A strange black mystical runic mark formed in midair. It began resonating with a massive, mysterious array formation that was set up deep in the Boor Ancestral Sect.

 420 Setting Off Prematurely

    Chapter 420: Setting Off Prematurely


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The mysterious array formation spanned more than half a kilometer. It was mainly black in color but had a few other colors mixed in. Before it was activated, its construction was hidden underground. The moment it was activated, countless runic patterns lit up on its surface! They were golden in color and appeared infinitely mystical. These golden patterns had a faint dazzle to them and seemed to distort space itself.


    "Boom!" A terrifying blast surged towards the sky as the earth and rocks above were reduced to nothingness. A column of light more than half a kilometer in diameter forcibly tore open a massive black hole.


    The black hole was the door to a distant world.


    Qin Yun, who had trapped Jiuhu and was attacking the grand hall with his Misty Rain Sword relentlessly, had a change in expression when he saw the terrifying blast and the appearance of the gigantic black hole vortex.


    The column of light was just too powerful!


    The vortex was just too large!


    "A world passageway?" Qin Yun found it unbelievable. "A world passageway typically starts small and weak, then expands. How is this one so massive from the moment it appeared? Furthermore, it''s so stable?"


    Back when He Qian opened a world passageway using a World Altar, it wasn''t even stable enough to allow an Essence Soul to pass through because the matter was quickly resolved!


    "This world passageway is a lot stronger than the one He Qian opened. It''s definitely enough to let an Essence Soul pass through." Qin Yun activated his Eye of Lightning and looked at the mysterious array that had been exposed. "I never expected that such a huge array formation was hidden under the Boor Ancestral Sect."


    Qin Yun knew quite a lot of untold secrets.


    For instance, a world passageway would usually only open as a tiny tunnel. Like a dike, a tiny ant hole had to be made first! As the saying goes, ''an ant hole causes the collapse of a great dike.'' Without any hindrance, the ant hole could constantly be widened. As that happened, it would allow the passage of a first Firmament Essence Soul, then a second Firmament Essence Soul¡­ Once it expanded to its limits, it could even allow passage for an ordinary Skyfiend!


    However, this method was relatively slower.


    The rate of expansion would become slower over time. To expand the world passageway to to the point of letting a Skyfiend through, it would probably take a month!


    The other method was to forcibly open a huge world passageway right away! The advantage of it opening instantaneously was obvious but it carried the disadvantage of an immense price. If a world passageway that allowed passage for Skyfiends needed to be instantly opened, the cost would be worth several superior-grade Numinous treasures! Although the gains of conquering a Small World was huge, it was not worth spending several superior-grade Numinous treasures for the setup of the necessary array formations.


    Unless there was a special reason!


    "They activated a massive world passageway right away, and it was only because I attacked the Boor Ancestral Sect and forced them to activate it prematurely," thought Qin Yun. "If they had been given them enough time, they probably would have been able to open an even larger world passageway."


    Upon coming to this conclusion, Qin Yun could not help but shudder.


    Thankfully, he had forced them to act prematurely.


    ¡­


    Outside the Boor Ancestral Sect, the water mirror reflected the column of light that shot out from the mysterious array formation. A massive black hole had been torn open.


    The six mighty figures of the Grand Chang world were watching stoically. They all understood what was happening once they saw the huge, stable world passageway.


    "Thankfully, we had Qin Yun who could go Boor Ancestral Sect now and force them to activate the array formation." Patriarch Bai''s voice was trembling slightly. "The enemy is daring. If they had finished their preparations, then this array would have caused a huge catastrophe."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "We''re definitely not dealing with an ordinary Empyrean Lord, for him to be capable of setting up such an elaborate array formation. Based on the inchoate form of the array formation, the original plan was to set up a world passageway that allows passage for Skyfiends. If we had not attacked the Boor Ancestral Sect, they might have activated the world passageway in a few decades. Large swaths of Skyfiends would have been able to charge into our world."


    "Although world passageways into Small Worlds only allow passage for third Firmament Skyfiends," added Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, "once the numbers are great enough, and they get into a combat formation, it is highly likely for us to lose."


    "That''s not right. The enemy should know that I''m the Dao Ancestor''s disciple. If I spare no expense to seek the help of a senior brother from Green Touring Palace, we could easily ensure the safety of the Great Chang world." Ancestral Master Zhang frowned. "Furthermore, to set up an array formation that allows passage for Skyfiends costs several superior-grade Numinous treasures. It''s not worth it to conquer a Small World. The enemy must have a special reason for planning such an operation."


    "What could that reason be?" Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was puzzled as well.


    And at that moment¡ª


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    An Other Realm Fiendcelestial crawled out of the black hole vortex with great difficulty. His six muscular arms, covered in scales, reached out first, grabbing the membranous wall of the vortex. Before long he was squeezing his body into the Great Chang world.


    "The array formation still has too many flaws." The moment the Other Realm Fiendcelestial entered, he immediately plunged towards the mysterious array formation. He took out materials from his Cosmic Bag and quickly got to working on the array formation.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun controlled the Misty Rain Sword to attack the column of light.


    The blurry column of light protected the mysterious array formation as well as the black hole vortex. Regardless of how Qin Yun attacked with his Intrinsic Flying Sword, the column of light remained unperturbed.


    "In terms of defense, this column of light is much stronger than any of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formations." Qin Yun turned anxious.


    Hum!


    The column of light expanded suddenly as it spread outwards.


    Soon, it enveloped even the grand hall nearby. Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, Aged Fiend Goat Horn and the other fiendcelestials and disciples charged for the mysterious array formation''s light.


    "Damn it!"


    After the remnant members of the Boor Ancestral Sect took shelter inside the half-kilometer region, the column of light also shrank back to its original size.


    As for Qin Yun, he continued casting his Misty Rain Sword, but his attacks remained fruitless.


    "We are safe." The Boor Ancestral Sect disciples revealed looks of delight.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Patriarch Monkey, Aged Fiend Goat Horn exchanged looks as they sent secret voice transmissions. "In order to live, we threw away all decorum!"


    "We have defied Empyrean Lord. Once the fiendcelestial world has a chance, they will likely kill us."


    The three of them were extremely careful.


    They had to struggle for a chance to live by wavering between factions.


    "Quick, faster! Faster!" The six-armed Other Realm Fiendcelestial that was first to enter was adept at array formations. He was mending the array formation as best he could. "Although the materials being used now are worse than what was originally planned, as long as it''s fully mended, it would be easy for peak third Firmament fiendcelestials to enter. Empyrean Lord still has a chance of fulfilling his goal."


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Another Other Realm Fiendcelestial crawled out of the black hole vortex with great difficulty and made it into the Great Chang world. Clearly, it was still not easy for these third Firmament fiendcelestials to enter.


    Qin Yun could not help but send a voice transmission to Daoist Divine Firmament and company when he saw this.


    "Senior Zhang, what do we do now?"


    ¡­


    Outside the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "Are we to use that treasure now?" whispered Human Emperor. Patriarch Bai and company looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    The fact that the Great Chang world could fend off the numerous fiendcelestial worlds to this day meant that its heritage was a lot better than the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    Although the Boor Ancestral Sect had a massive number of mortals in its array formations, preventing them from storming in for fear of the Heavenly Dao, at perilous times, they could use their cornerstone treasure that protected humanity. They still had means to wipe out the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    "It should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Using the treasure to kill a few Skyfiends isn''t worth it," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "If the situation gets really bad, I''d rather seek the help of my senior brothers in Green Touring Palace than use humanity''s cornerstone treasure."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure imparted his knowledge to all people without discrimination, his disciples numbered in the tens of thousands! Ancestral Master Zhang was considered one of the less remarkable ones and held a relatively lower standing. Even if he sought the help of his senior brothers, they would usually not bother with him! But since he had many senior brothers, he was bound to find at least one to help if he sought out enough of them.


    However, with Ancestral Master Zhang''s pride, he would not beg for help unless he was forced into an impossible situation.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun, you do not need to bother with those fiendcelestials. Destroy the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation with all your strength. Do it as soon as possible so that we can join you. The earlier, the better! The later it is, the more trouble there will be." Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice sounded from the transmission treasure with a hint of urgency.


    Qin Yun held the transmission treasure in hand.


    "Don''t worry. Leave it to me," responded Qin Yun.


    By the side, Yi Xiao said immediately, "But the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array is being a hindrance. There are other array formations obstructing us as well. Cracking the array will be very troublesome."


    "We can''t let those bother us. Only the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array can pose a hindrance." As Qin Yun said that, he extended his left hand. Two beams of light tore through the sky after they shot out from his sleeve. They were a pair of transcendent-grade flying swords that Qin Yun had specially bought through Ancestral Master Zhang before their assault on the Boor Ancestral Sect.


    The sword pair''s name was the Lovers Sword, one male, the other female. Together, they formed a transcendent-grade flying sword.


    Qin Yun was still using the Cosmic Bangles to trap Skyfiend Jiuhu. In such a situation, he had to simultaneously control the Lovers Sword, his Intrinsic Flying Sword, and the Green Leaf Flying Sword. That was already his limit.


    "Pop." Qin Yun took out a jade bottle and a Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill flew out. He immediately swallowed it, recovering his mental strength and Dharmic powers.


    "Let''s risk it all!"


    The Misty Rain Sword, Lovers Sword, and the Green Leaf Flying Sword streaked across the sky as they separately assaulted the array formation.


    "You people from the Boor Ancestral Sect, stop them." The six-armed Other Realm Fiendcelestial shouted. "We cannot let Daoist Divine Firmament and the rest enter."


    "Don''t worry."


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Aged Fiend Goat Horn, and Patriarch Monkey did not dare slack off. They directed the array formation to obstruct Qin Yun''s three flying swords.

 421 Empyrean Lords Two Disciples

    Chapter 421: Empyrean Lord''s Two Disciples


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The three flying swords streaked across the sky like three white beams of light as they launched attacks from different directions.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect spent hundreds of thousands of years setting up array formations, making improvements every generation, making it an impregnable fort to outside forces.


    Even if Daoist Divine Firmament and company had the means to crack the array by force, they could not prevent the collateral loss of lives of the mortals within.


    "It''s relatively easier to destroy from the inside but these array formations are stacked over each other, making it like a thick fog. The interior levels can only be destroyed after the exterior levels are destroyed. It will probably take some time to destroy them one layer at a time." Qin Yun felt the pressure. He needed to maintain the Cosmic Bangles'' suppression on Jiuhu as well as endure the hindrances of the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array.


    He planned on eliminating the Boor Ancestral Sect trio first. If he could stop the array formations from hindering him would it make it easier to crack the defensive arrays.


    But now, they had fled into the column of light!


    "Crack!"


    The Misty Rain Sword was the fastest and its might was most terrifying. It transformed into a burning meteor and assaulted a mountain peak not too far away. With a boom, the mountain peak was blasted to bits. A large number of spikes shot out from the flying sword, destroying the exposed array flags and array disks from the blasted mountain. Following that, it attacked forcibly again, uncovering an ancient array chart deep under the mountain.


    After destroying the ancient array chart, one layer of the periphery array formation that protected the entire Boor Ancestral Sect dissipated.


    Thankfully, Qin Yun was causing damage from the inside or it would have been more than ten times higher.


    "Stop him!"


    "How long has this Qin Yun¡­ been cultivating for? Yet, he''s already this strong?" The Boor Ancestral Sect trio felt their hearts ache from the loss. This was their sect. Defensive array formations built up over hundreds of thousands of years to protect it were being destroyed.


    Demolishing things were fast but building them back up was very difficult!


    "Whoosh~"


    Countless arrows in the sky crashed against one of the Lovers Swords in midair.


    Black chains spread across the land and sky as they flailed to stop the other flying sword.


    The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array was used to hinder the Misty Rain Sword.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect trio¡­ were doing their best to hinder Qin Yun''s destruction of the array while controlling one array formation each.


    "It''s useless." Now that Qin Yun''s sword moves had reached a brand new level, the might produced by the transcendent-grade Lovers Sword was above the Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array. How could the arrows or black chains be able to hinder them?


    Countless arrows filled the sky, blanketing the world in a dark shadow.


    Black chains shot out from the void as they constantly darted underneath the darkened sky.


    The Eight Gates Fiend Saber Array was even faster.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    However, the Misty Rain Sword and the Lovers Swords pair remained intact.


    As more damage was incurred, the flaws in the originally intact layers of array formations became more obvious. It allowed Qin Yun to find even more flaws to crack the array even faster.


    "Dad, look!"


    "What''s happening?"


    A father and daughter duo that had gone up a mountain to pluck herbs looked up in astonishment. A large village had established itself in a col. Thousands of people lived within five kilometers of the village, and stayed in that area permanently. Due to the array formations, they could not go beyond ten kilometers.


    They saw a black chain extend from the horizon when they looked up as it coiled around a stream of light.


    The stream of light was plummeting towards the col they lived in!


    "What''s happening?"


    The villagers were alarmed.


    "Whoosh."


    An invisible force descended upon them, causing thousands of villagers to fly into the sky. It was none other than Qin Yun''s Dao domain.


    His Dao domain easily scooped up and protected thousands of villagers. The col quaked under the flying sword''s strike. A large region was directly pulverized, blasting apart a huge crater that spanned kilometers. It revealed a massive, mystical array chart beneath! This revealed the truth that thousands of people had been living above an array chart for generations. Black chains plummeted from high in the sky in a bid to obstruct the flying sword but it moved with extreme agility. Although it did collide with the chains occasionally, it would just shatter them and move on. Clearly, the might of the flying sword was extremely terrifying as well. Immediately following that, the flying sword struck the array chart, destroying it instantly.


    "Swoosh." After destroying the array chart, the flying sword instantly and deftly departed.


    The black chains continued their pursuit of the flying sword without harming the mortals.


    After all, Sect Master Boor Ancestral and company did not dare engage in the mindless slaughter of thousands of mortals. They had all reached the Essence Soul realm a long time ago.


    ...


    Qin Yun controlled his three flying swords to destroy the array formation. Although he encountered resistance, slowing down his destructive speed greatly, it was still a mostly successful endeavor.


    However¡ª


    The black hole was still protected by the column of light, had already produced two fiendcelestials who were doing their best to mend the array formation, and now a third fiendcelestial had crawled in! He was an ox-headed fiendcelestial with a huge saber slung across his back. His skin was black like an igneous rock. Following behind him was a fourth fiendcelestial who grabbed the wall membrane of the black hole as he crawled into the Great Chang world with great difficulty. He was a wolf-headed fiendcelestial with snow-white fur. He wore a pair of sharp Dharma treasure gloves.


    The two fiendcelestials looked at the distant Qin Yun and also saw Skyfiend Jiuhu being trapped inside the Cosmic World.


    "To think that Monarch Jiuhu has been trapped," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial with a voice transmission. "Junior Brother, this mortal''s strength is indeed terrifying. Do not let your guard down or disappoint Master."


    "Let''s go. Time to destroy that sword immortal named Qin Yun," said the wolf-headed fiendcelestial with a voice transmission.


    The duo transformed into two streams of light and instantly flew out of the column of light.


    The column of light did not obstruct them in any way.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun also saw the two distant fiendcelestials rushing at him murderously.


    "They must be somewhat confident to charge me as mere third Firmament fiendcelestials." Qin Yun knitted his brows slightly. "Onward."


    He sent out the Green Leaf Flying Sword.


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword cast Waning Waxing Moons as it pressed towards the two fiendcelestials in an extremely strange manner.


    "Oh?"


    The ox-headed fiendcelestial immediately drew the saber from his back as he made a show of his mighty and terrifying saber arts. The wolf-headed fiendcelestial''s sharp claws effused cold auras as they manifested as countless illusions.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The weapons collided ceaselessly.


    The flying sword moved unpredictably as it attacked from every direction. However, the ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials managed to defend against every strike.


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword also delivered other moves, but because it was much weaker than the Intrinsic Flying Sword, it ultimately could not do much to the two fiendcelestials.


    "Fiendcelestials capable of fighting others a level higher than themselves?" Qin Yun was secretly alarmed when he saw this scene. "Among the big sects of the Effulgent Great World, third Firmament fiendcelestials that can fight above their level and match Skyfiends are considered elites. Yet I''m encountering two here? This fiendcelestial world appears to be quite strong."


    Following that, the Green Leaf Flying Sword immediately transformed into a stream of light as it returned to him.


    "Hmph. Those two are personal disciples of Empyrean Lord. They are the only two third Firmament fiendcelestials that can match Skyfiends." From the Cosmic World, Skyfiend Jiuhu scoffed secretly as he watched the scene from afar. "Those that can fight above their level all have very high levels of insight. They have long been able to survive the tribulations to become Skyfiends. However, to continue cultivating in powerful divine powers, they choose to stay as third Firmament fiendcelestials! If you were to use your Intrinsic Flying Sword, you might put them at a disadvantage, but to fight them with a mere transcendent-grade flying sword? Injuring Empyrean Lord''s two personal disciples with that is nothing but a dream!"


    Qin Yun continued damaging the array formations but kept a mental note of the two fiendcelestials that were rushing at him.


    "Qin Yun, if you were to submit to our master, there might be a chance for you to live."


    "Surrender quickly or forget about living."


    As the two fiendcelestials flew over, they amplified their voices with their Dharmic powers. It made them echo like thunder.


    "What bold words from mere fiendcelestials." Qin Yun sneered.


    "Hmph, you are courting death."


    "Impenetrably thickheaded!"


    The ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials exchanged looks and did not hesitate to unleash their strongest attacks. Time was of the essence! The earlier they disposed of Qin Yun, the more likely their master''s goal would succeed. After all, outside the Boor Ancestral Sect¡­ stood the greatest obstacle to conquering the world: the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple, Daoist Divine Firmament!


    Boom! Boom!


    The ox-headed fiendcelestial brandished his battle saber, his body bathed in flames.


    The wolf-headed fiendcelestial''s body exuded an air of snow-white frost.


    Their strengths synergized as ice and fire fused, constantly increasing in might!


    "Kill!" "Kill!" They unleashed their killer blows simultaneously.


    Countless claw shadows formed the outline of a blurred wolf. Wherever it passed through, the void would be completely torn apart. And immediately following it was an ordinary-looking black saber shadow.


    Qin Yun remained extremely vigilant.


    The Green Leaf Flying Sword cast the Cyclic Sword Flash to protect an area thousands of feet around him. The Numinous treasure, Heavy Water Sword, stayed by his side, ready for use at any moment.


    "Boom!"


    The Cyclic Sword Flash suffered countless blows from the claw shadows before also receiving the strike from the black saber shadow. The entire Cyclic Sword Flash barrier stirred like water waves were emanating outwards. It looked like it would collapse at any moment but it quickly stabilized.


    Qin Yun felt alarmed inwardly. "The Cyclic Sword Flash is the move I''m most confident in. If I had just reached the Skyimmortal realm and hadn''t gained these insights into the sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword, First Lightning Encounter, just the Green Leaf Flying Sword would be insufficient to fend off the duo! Thankfully, I did have this breakthrough."


    In terms of bodies, the two fiendcelestials had strength that matched that of a Skyfiend.


    They also had ultimate strikes that could be delivered collectively! It made Qin Yun feel more than a little threatened.


    "We failed to crack it?" The ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials were astonished. They had just delivered their strongest combined attack.


    "He still has a Numinous treasure-grade divine sword by his side. It doesn''t appear possible for the two of us to kill him. Let''s wait until more fiendcelestials enter," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial with a voice transmission.


    "Yes. Let''s rescue Monarch Jiuhu first." The wolf-headed fiendcelestial was honest about their odds as well.


    They already had a plan.


    They would deliver a strike at full force. It would be good if they succeeded in killing him but they would have to quickly change maneuvers if they failed.


    Now that their side was launching their attack, time was precious.They could not waste it.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    They transformed into two streams of light and flew towards Skyfiend Jiuhu.


    "Oh? They are leaving just like that?" Qin Yun was a little stunned. He never expected the two fiendcelestials to be that straightforward.


    "Monarch Jiuhu, to think you are trapped by a mortal sword immortal." The ox-headed fiendcelestial flew over rapidly but his voice arrived behind him.


    "To think a mighty Monarch would fall into such a predicament." The wolf-headed fiendcelestial''s voice sounded as well.


    "Hmph, if I were to recover my Skyfiend body, I wouldn''t be trapped like this. Capturing that Qin Yun would not even be a problem." Jiuhu was a little angry from the embarrassment. He only had a third Firmament fiendcelestial body at the moment. It was much weaker compared to his Skyfiend body. The strength he could produce was also a lot weaker.

 422 Squashing the Boor Ancestral Sec

    Chapter 422: Squashing the Boor Ancestral Sect


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When the ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials flew over to save Skyfiend Jiuhu, the six Cosmic Bangles that formed the Cosmic World transformed into beams of light as they rapidly flew back towards Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Jiuhu watched the surrounding Cosmic World dissipate in a daze. "That Qin Yun released me?"


    ¡­


    Elsewhere.


    "My Cosmic Bangles will not be able to endure the combined attacks of them and the trapped Other Realm Fiendcelestial if they attack simultaneously from inside and outside," thought Qin Yun. He had experienced the combined attacks of the duo. The Cyclic Sword Flash cast by the Green Leaf Flying Sword had nearly failed to defend against them. It was impossible for the Cosmic World to withstand attacks from them and an additional fiendcelestial.


    Qin Yun shot a glance at the black hole enveloped by the column of light a distance away. Another two fiendcelestials had crawled out of it. He could not help but frown. "The world passageway is becoming more stable. The speed at which the fiendcelestials are entering is getting faster too. I need to make better use of my time!"


    As he summoned the Cosmic Bangles back, he released his Green Leaf Flying Sword.


    The Cosmic Bangles wrapped around Qing Yun''s arm before vanishing.


    "I need to crack the array as quickly as possible."


    The Misty Rain Sword, Green Leaf Flying Sword, and the two Lovers Swords, a total of four flying swords, headed in four different directions as they attempted to crack the array relentlessly.


    "That Qin Yun has released another flying sword to crack the array." The Boor Ancestral Sect trio felt their hearts tightened.


    "But at least Skyfiend Jiuhu has been released."


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Large swaths of land were blasted apart, causing the area to collapse.


    Mountain peaks pulverized into dust.


    The four flying swords attacked the arrays intensely.


    "Neither of us are not good at long-range attacks. Monarch Jiuhu, do you have any means of stopping his flying swords? We need to slow down his damage to the array," said the wolf-headed fiendcelestial with a voice transmission.


    "Although my Twin Lunar Fiend Knives are capable of long-distance attacks, their speed is far inferior to his flying swords. There''s no way they can be held back." Jiuhu shook his head.


    In terms of agility and speed, Qin Yun''s flying swords were just too much!


    "Here they!" Qin Yun looked at the three fiendcelestials charging at him. Another bout of attacks would ensue!


    "Whoosh."


    The Heavy Water Sword floated in front of him before it instantly disassembled into a hundred component swords.


    The hundred swords surrounded him.


    Hum!


    Fueled by Dharmic powers, the hundred sword components conjured a perfected Cyclic Sword Flash! It gave him an all-encompassing defense.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom¡­" The three fiendcelestials rushed over and began unleashing a barrage of attacks on Qin Yun.


    But their attacks were to no avail.


    "He''s using a Numinous treasure to cast a flying sword art. Its might is a lot stronger than before. Even the three of us can''t crack it," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial with a voice transmission.


    "The other fiendcelestials are not stronger than us." Jiuhu frowned.


    "Although the rest are just ordinary third Firmament fiendcelestials, they can easily kill Qin Yun if we can set up a Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation." The wolf-headed fiendcelestial looked at the distant column of light. The black hole was becoming bigger and more stable. Fiendcelestials were continuing to come out, clearly much faster than before.


    "There won''t be a need for a Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation. Another ten plus fiendcelestial soldiers will probably be sufficient," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial.


    Meanwhile, far away.


    Fiendcelestials were crawling out of the black hole quickly. About three or four came out every second. It was clearly getting a lot easier.


    "The array formation has been fully mended." The two fiendcelestials responsible for mending the array formation revealed looks of joy.


    "Hum!" The black hole turned even more stable.


    Fiendcelestials flew straight in one after another. All of them wore tailor-made armor and moved in an orderly fashion.


    Six fiendcelestials quickly formed a small squadron. The armor they wore had fiendish patterns on the surface as their strength naturally fused as one.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Two fiendcelestial squadrons flew out of the column of light one after another as they headed for Qin Yun.


    "They are all third Firmament fiendcelestials. Twelve in one go? Furthermore, they all wear specially tailored Dharma treasures?" Qin Yun was secretly alarmed when he saw what was happening. "What deep pockets! To use third Firmament fiendcelestials as ordinary soldiers¡­ this fiendcelestial world is very powerful."


    "It''s way too powerful."


    The Boor Ancestral Sect trio, including the other fiendcelestials and disciples, were shocked agape by the sight as well.


    One third Firmament fiendcelestials after another flew out of the black hole. They flew in order with six forming a squadron. They kept pouring out like this!


    "Sect Master, were we too arrogant in forcing the fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord''s hand?" Aged Fiend Goat Horn said a voice transmission. He had turned somewhat cowardly.


    Although they knew that the fiendcelestial world was very powerful, they had never been there before! From the looks of it, it was much more powerful than expected!


    "What else can we do? If we listened to Empyrean Lord and destroyed the array formation, wiping out every single shred of evidence, how could we have escaped from under the noses of Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament?" Sect Master Boor Ancestral replied with a voice transmission.


    "The weak can only struggle to survive," said Patriarch Monkey through a voice transmission.


    "If I had known this would happen sooner, I would have tried to enter the Skydemon Palace. It would be better than this. The fiendish way¡­ is weakening in the Great Chang world." Aged Fiend Goat Horn shook his head.


    Although the trio was obediently controlling the array formation to hinder Qin Yun as much as they could, all they really wanted was to live!


    Once the fiendcelestials had time, they would probably be punished. They were currently still of value, so they were still being humored.


    However, the trio knew very well how fiendcelestials did things. They did not bear any hopes of living long.


    ¡­


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao turned nervous as well.


    The distant twelve fiendcelestials flew towards them in two squadrons.


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun looked at his wife and gripped her hand. "We still have the Major Transference Dao talisman. There''s enough time for us escape."


    "Get in formation, kill him!" Skyfiend Jiuhu gave the order.


    "Yes."


    Six fiendcelestials naturally formed a battle formation. The two squadrons immediately attacked in unison. Skyfiend Jiuhu, the ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials attacked as well.


    "Boom!" The two fiendcelestial squadrons delivered their attacks. All of them were in the form of cold saber flashes that whistled like mountain winds before slicing into the Cyclic Sword Flash! Skyfiend Jiuhu and company were also attacking frenetically. Qin Yun used the Heavy Water Sword''s hundred sword pieces to resist them, but it was barely working. The Cyclic Sword Flash began to tremble.


    Qin Yun consumed another Nine Revolutions Spirit Pill to restore his quickly depleting Dharmic powers and mental strength.


    The splitting headache he had from being pushed to his limit felt attenuated by a light clarity. He rapidly turned for the better.


    "He''s actually managing to hold on?" Jiuhu was alarmed as he turned to look into the distance. Two more fiendcelestial squadrons were rapidly flying over. He urged them with a voice transmission bellow, "Quick, come here quickly!"


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    Qin Yun was still doing his best to crack the array.


    The four flying swords attacked different spots relentlessly, with the Misty Rain Sword being the fastest at delivering damage.


    "Boom!" The ground cratered as mountains collapsed.


    The villagers that had been living permanently in the region, one that only spanned dozens of kilometers across, were sent flying by the Dao domain. They watched helplessly as the villages they lived in were destroyed. They were alarmed and depressed.


    "Mom, our house is gone! It''s gone!" A child cried.


    "Will we die?"


    "Our newly built house¡­"


    There were villagers crying out in anguish.


    They had been living here for too long and were already accustomed to a world that spanned about five to ten kilometers. They even believed that the world was only that large! Even though there was an insufficient number doctors and herbs, with many villagers dying from illnesses or silently disappearing, they could persist on if they stayed alive. They lived in the tiny region their entire lives with great difficulty, but they still saw it as home.


    In the long span of time measured in terms of ten millennia, generations farmed and proliferated here.


    They did not know what the huge battle meant for them, nor did they know that a new era would be ushered in for them if Qin Yun succeeded.


    "Qin Yun can''t last much longer," urged Patriarch Bai in panic.


    "Divine Firmament, it''s about time we charge in now, right?" Skydemon Palatial Lord urged as well.


    "Brother Zhang!" East Sea Skydragon was looking at Qin Yun as well.


    Daoist Divine Firmament stoically stared ahead. Countless sparks of purple lightning emanated out. The group of them had long set up a cooperative array formation.


    "Hum." Ancestral Master Zhang''s Dao domain began to forcibly seep into the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation.


    "No, it''s still not enough!" Ancestral Master Zhang sent an urgent voice transmission. "Although the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation has weakened by more than half, we will not be able to protect the villagers from the remnant shockwaves if we forcibly crack it."


    "Let''s wait a little longer," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "The more time he spends, the faster the array formation weakens."


    Indeed.


    His progress at cracking the array was snail-paced in the beginning but. as Qin Yun continued causing damage to it, the flaws increased and its strength weakened drastically.


    "Boom!" The third fiendcelestial squadron arrived.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash formed by the Heavy Water Sword''s hundred sword pieces began producing rippling waves. It could hardly withstand the barrage of attacks.


    "I''m at my limit. I will definitely not be able to hold on if another fiendcelestial squadron arrives." Qin Yun looked at the fourth fiendcelestial squadron who were coming out of the hole a distance away. He was burning with anxiety.


    The three fiendcelestial squadrons meant eighteen third Firmament fiendcelestials. Adding Skyfiend Jiuhu and the other two fiendcelestials, Qin Yun had managed to withstand the attacks of so many fiendcelestials. It was a remarkable achievement in the Great Chang world''s history!


    "Ancestral Master Zhang, can you crack it?" Qin Yun sent a voice transmission through his transmission treasure.


    "Haha, Qin Yun, you have already done enough! Leave the rest to us!" The voice came straight from the world itself.


    Dazzling purple lightning tore through the layers of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formations. After suffering immense damage from Qin Yun, the array formation had greatly weakened. It tore open with barely any resistance.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The might of the array''s destruction was extremely terrifying, but every mortal within the array formation was protected.


    "Fall back! Fall Back!" The ox-headed fiendcelestial immediately roared the command through a voice transmission.


    "Quick!" The wolf-headed fiendcelestial sent a voice transmission nervously.


    "Fall back to the array formation''s interior before regrouping!" Skyfiend Jiuhu gave the order as well.


    The three of them flew quickly as the three fiendcelestial squadrons followed them to the distant column of light. The fourth fiendcelestial squadron that had just arrived also returned immediately.


    All of them were retreating with everything they had.


    The extremely nervous Qin Yun finally heaved a sigh of relief.


    "We succeeded." Yi Xiao held Qin Yun''s hand in extreme excitement. "Brother Yun, we succeeded! The Boor Ancestral Sect of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons has finally been overrun!"


    ¡­


    And inside the column of light.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect trio that was doing their best to hinder the flying swords, as well as the other fiendcelestials and disciples, watched in a daze as the lightning ripped apart the massive array. Daoist Divine Firmament, Skydemon Palatial Lord, Patriarch Bai, East Sea Skydragon, and company stormed into the area, unleashing all the powers available to them.


    "Finished, the Boor Ancestral Sect is finished."


    "Our Boor Ancestral Sect is finished." Many disciples were in a daze.


    Even the Boor Ancestral Sect trio had long guessed that it was unlikely for the Boor Ancestral Sect to survive the calamity. But at the instant, as they were truly overrun, they still felt mixed emotions. Patriarch Monkey''s eyes welled up with tears.


    This was their sect after all!


    A sect that had existed since ancient times, listed as one of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons!


    And on this day, it was being squashed flat.


    This day turned the page in the history of the Great Chang world!


    The Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons would become the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons! The Boor Ancestral Sect would have its name removed!

 423 Clash Between the Great Chang World and the Fiendcelestial World

    Chapter 423: Clash Between the Great Chang World and the Fiendcelestial World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked up and into the distance.


    Daoist Divine Firmament, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon Palatial Lord, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and Patriarch Bai had formed a battle formation in midair a distance away. The purple lightning that appeared stirred the Heaven and Earth powers. Instantly, many bolts of lightning fell from the skies, striking the fleeing fiendcelestials.


    The fiendcelestials were doing their very best to escape.


    They could fly very quickly since they either matched the strength of a Skyfiend or were in battle formations. Also, they were still inside the Boor Ancestral Sect''s lair so they were not too far from the protective column of light.


    "Whoosh!" The column of light that protected the spatial passageway expanded suddenly once again. The fiendcelestials that barely escaped were enveloped by it.


    "We managed to get to safety in here." Skyfiend Jiuhu and company heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The stable black hole continued expanding as armored fiendcelestials constantly flew through it.


    "Get into formation." A fiendcelestial vanguard shouted loudly.


    "Arise."


    Including the four fiendcelestial squadrons that had attacked Qin Yun, there were now six fiendcelestial squadrons inside the column of light. Furthermore, there were more fiendcelestials pouring in constantly.


    Six fiendcelestial squadrons meant thirty-six fiendcelestials! And all of them wore identical tailored armor.


    "Hum¨C"


    Mystical patterns flickered to life on the fiendcelestials'' armor as they interconnected with one another. Surging forces naturally formed as one!


    "Just one of those fiendcelestial squadrons from before is already strong enough. I never expected six fiendcelestial squadrons would come, that''s quite a qualitative change." Qin Yun could tell at a glance. "Could the armor they wear be making them get so much stronger? From the looks of it, each suit of armor is a transcendent-grade Dharma treasure. What deep pockets. The number of transcendent-grade armors in the entire Great Chang world is probably fewer than ten."


    Thirty-six fiendcelestials, even if all of them were third Firmament fiendcelestials, could be easily destroyed by Qin Yun if they fought individually.


    However, if they wore the tailored armor and combined into squadrons of six, they matched Skyfiend Jiuhu. Thirty-six reached a brand new level.


    "Destroy!"


    Daoist Divine Firmament and company flew up as they controlled the lightning from afar.


    The purple lightning descended, striking the column of light. Although the column of light trembled, the purple bolts of lightning disintegrated even after repeated strikes.


    "Hold back the enemy!" The thirty-six fiendcelestials formed a battle formation as they brandished their sabers.


    aber flashes unified to form a dazzling saber mountain that clashed with the purple lightning¡­


    "What powerful might. If this saber mountain were to strike my Heavenly Cycles, I''d probably fail to withstand it." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    "Brother Yun, this fiendcelestial world is really powerful. Just the appearance of a large group of third Firmament fiendcelestials has turned the tables! If Skyfiends were to appear, will our Great Chang world be able to fend them off?" Yi Xiao was shaken as well.


    "If they had been able to make adequate preparations and open the world passageway when they wanted, sending large batches of Skyfiends here, it would truly be a disaster for the Great Chang world." Qin Yun reeled in fear at the thought.


    Thankfully that didn''t happen.


    It was all thanks to Puqu Dragonlord''s help that allowed him to rescue Yi Xiao ahead of time.


    "Our daughter is very likely being held in the fiendcelestial world. Will we be able to rescue her?" Yi Xiao could not help but blurt out her thoughts as tears welled in her eyes.


    Qin Yun fell silent for a moment before saying, "Xiaoxiao, I, Qin Yun, swear that I will save our daughter! Definitely!"


    Yi Xiao held her husband''s hand.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The battle was raging on high in the sky.


    Daoist Divine Firmament and company joined forces to set up a battle formation, gaining a slight advantage through the use of the purple lightning. After it destroyed the saber mountain, it blasted the formation of thirty-six fiendcelestials. Yet all it did was cause a slight stir to the formation. Every fiendcelestial suffered some remnant blasts of the purple lightning but there were only minor injuries.


    "It held." Having fled to the back, Skyfiend Jiuhu''s eyes lit up.


    "As expected of the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation. Just it alone can resist the Skyimmortals and Bodhisattva of the Great Chang world, even if only barely. If Master''s guards arrive and set up the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation, perhaps we do have a chance of conquering this world now," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial with anticipation.


    "By conquering this world and helping our world''s Heavenly Dao to infiltrate it, we will transform this world into one that suits the cultivation of our fiendcelestial lineage," said the wolf-headed fiendcelestial with anticipation. "Not only would we be rewarded by Master, we would also gain merit from the Heavenly Dao."


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    More fiendcelestials continued entering through the black hole. In a blink of an eye, another three fiendcelestial squadrons had entered.


    As for Daoist Divine Firmament and company, they were looking a little anxious.


    "We cannot let any more of them enter. Attack!" Ancestral Master Zhang shouted.


    As purple lightning kept the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation in lockdown, large amounts of purple lightning swarmed towards the black hole.


    "Protect the world passageway!" Skyfiend Jiuhu, the ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials, as well as the newly-arrived three fiendcelestial squadrons formed a defensive wall in a concerted effort.


    "Boom!!!"


    The lightning branched out all over the place as the battle turned into chaos.


    And on the ground, the Boor Ancestral Sect trio and the remnants of the Boor Ancestral Sect, such as the Elders and disciples, were feeling somewhat lost and uneasy.


    The figures in the sky represented the strongest the Great Chang world had to offer but they were clashing with a large group of fiendcelestials. It was not something they were capable of joining in.


    "It''s time." The Boor Ancestral Sect trio exchanged looks.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect''s array formation was almost completely destroyed. Even the array formations that sealed the void had been destroyed.


    Be it Daoist Divine Firmament or the fiendcelestials, none of them could spare the trio any attention. One side was focused on destroying the world passageway while the other side was defending it.


    Hum!


    At the most intense and chaotic moment of the battle, the Boor Ancestral Sect trio suddenly felt a fluctuation envelop them.


    "Whoosh."


    Following that, the trio jumped into a void ripple and vanished.


    "Sect Master Boor Ancestral and company have fled?" Ancestral Master Zhang and East Sea Skydragon swept their gaze and noticed that three figures had vanished.


    "Oh?"


    From their distance, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao also noticed that the three figures were missing.


    "Void Transference? They escaped?" Qin Yun knitted his brows.


    "They managed to escape?" Yi Xiao could not help but say.


    Qin Yun said, "At the instant Void Transference is triggered, it will indeed create minute spatial fluctuations! But in this battle, there are too many spatial fluctuations dotting the area. Not only us, even Ancestral Master Zhang and company did not notice until it was too late. That allowed the trio to flee."


    "Sect Master!"


    "Sect Master!!!"


    "Bring us with you. You should have brought us with you!"


    The remnant fiendcelestial Elders and disciples of the Boor Ancestral Sect were taken aback and shouted in despair.


    However, their shouting was useless.


    The Boor Ancestral Sect only had one treasure that could teleport Essence Souls. Using it would drain it of all of its power, only allowing the trio to leave. So how could they bring the other Elders and disciples with them?


    ¡­


    "The three of them pose no threat to the outside world. If they ever dare show themselves, they will easily be killed." Qin Yun frowned as he looked at the increasing number of fiendcelestials that was appearing in the sky. "What''s most troublesome now is that huge group of fiendcelestials! Thirty-six of them form a battle formation that has a strength far exceeding mine. Now, there are already more than sixty fiendcelestials. There are more still pouring in. Soon, they will be able to produce a second thirty-six fiendcelestial battle formation."


    "Will we lose?" asked Yi Xiao worriedly.


    Indeed it seemed dire.


    As the world passageway stabilized and expanded, the fiendcelestials entered even faster.


    "Take up formation," a fiendcelestial vanguard squadron leader shouted.


    Immediately, a second Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation was formed.


    This scene made Skyfiend Jiuhu and company reveal looks of delight.


    "We might have been at a slight disadvantage with the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation from before but we managed to barely hold up against them. Now that there are two Minor Annihilation Dharma Formations¡­ hmph." Jiuhu watched with burning eyes.


    "Kill!"


    The two Minor Annihilation Dharma Formations were each formed by thirty-six fiendcelestials. They floated in midair like a massive dark cloud.


    All of them wore tailored armor with battle sabers hanging on their backs. They brandished the battle sabers as countless saber flashes blinded the eyes of everyone there. They collectively launched an attack at Daoist Divine Firmament and company.


    "Boom!" Purple lightning triggered the might of the world as it sent suppressive forces everywhere.


    However, it only held a slight advantage over two Minor Annihilation Dharma Formations. It was not even able to injure a single fiendcelestial.


    "The Great Chang world is only this and nothing more," said the ox-headed fiendcelestial with a chuckling voice transmission when he saw the turn of events. "Once we have a hundred and eight fiendcelestial guardians gathered, the successful formation of the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation will be as Master anticipates, capable of making a clean sweep through the Great Chang world."


    "The hundred and eight third Firmament fiendcelestials are just one aspect, too. The hundred and eight Annihilation Divine Armors are extremely precious," said the wolf-headed firmament with a chuckle as well. "Master was planning on making sufficient preparations before sending large numbers of Skyfiends in to make a clean sweep through this world. Never did we expect to be forced to move out ahead of time. Master was only giving it a rushed try, hoping to test if the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation is capable of making a clean sweep of the Great Chang world. From the looks of it, there''s actual hope of that happening."


    "To think Daoist Divine Firmament is a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor. He''s really weak. What a disgrace." The ox-headed fiendcelestial scoffed.


    "A personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor, and he''s only at the third Firmament Skyimmortal. Hmph. Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor really doesn''t discriminate in his teachings. To think he recruited such a weak disciple," Skyfiend Jiuhu added. Their confidence was increasing.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched nervously.


    "Ancestral Master Zhang is only a third Firmament Skyimmortal. Still, the five of these mighty figures are only capable of matching the two fiendcelestial formations?" Qin Yun was gripped with anxiety but he could not help in any way. For instance, Skydemon Palatial Lord and Patriarch Bai were only capable of producing such strength by being in their battle formation.


    "Senior Zhang, Senior Bai."


    Qin Yun held his transmission token and sent a worried voice transmission. "Nothing can be done to the fiendcelestials now and the fiendcelestials are increasing in number. The situation will only turn worse. Senior Zhang, Senior Bai, do you have any other means?"


    "Hahaha¡­" Patriarch Bai sent a voice transmission of him laughing loudly. "Don''t worry. Everything is under our control. If we did not appear to be weak, would those fiendcelestials be so eager to charge in one after another without any regard for their lives?"


    "Don''t worry. I can recognize the armor they wear. It''s the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation of the fiendcelestial lineage." Ancestral Master Zhang sent a voice transmission as well, chuckling while he said, "I also learned about the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation in Green Touring Palace. Its formation needs one hundred and eight fiend soldiers¡­ By deliberately drawing them to us, we will destroy them all in one clean strike just when they are a few fiendcelestials short of reaching a hundred and eight!"


    Qin Yun was delighted when he heard that.


    "Don''t kill all of them," said Yi Xiao immediately. "Capture some of them alive. Our daughter¡­ should still be in that fiendcelestial world!"


    "Oh?" Ancestral Master Zhang and company were slightly alarmed as they felt pity for Qin Yun.


    "Don''t worry. We will try our best to capture a few fiendcelestials alive."

 424 You Will Regret It!

    Chapter 424: You Will Regret It!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On the other end of the black hole was the fiendcelestial world. Smooth green Jade Water Fiend Crystals lined the ground of an opulent and towering black rock palace, so flawless that it was actually reflective.


    There was a dense horde of nearly a hundred Skyfiends in the palace''s hall, standing reverently in two rows.


    And sitting on the throne was a massive figure. It had two curved horns that seemed to pierce through the firmaments. Its eyes stared at the black hole vortex in the sky above the square outside. There were a large number of third Firmament fiendcelestials standing under the vortex. They were fiendcelestial guardians dressed in tailored armor, and they were flying into the black hole in succession.


    The figure''s eyes penetrated the world passageway and saw into the distant Great Chang world.


    "Oh?" Empyrean Lord suddenly stood up.


    Beside him was a single-horned child. He smiled and said, "Brother, just two Minor Annihilation Dharma Formations are enough to match Daoist Divine Firmament and the rest. From the looks of it, just a Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation formed by a hundred and eight fiendcelestial vanguards is enough for us to clinch victory. As long as the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation can protect the surrounding area for three days, the spatial passageway will be able to expand to a size that accommodates Skyfiends. When that time comes, nearly a hundred Skyfiends will rush in. Victory is certain."


    The child''s voice contained a strange, mesmerizing power. And just looking at him would make one be involuntarily enthralled.


    "Let''s hope it goes as you say." Empyrean Lord walked down the stairs but his body appeared blurry. In a few steps, he had arrived outside the palace in the square outside.


    The square was lined with smooth and tidy black granite and spanned fifty kilometers.


    On the two sides of the square were a series of statues. They were statues of experts from Daoism, Buddhism, the Dragon race, and even fiendish demons.


    They were either genuflecting with eyes filled with rage or cleaving with saber in hand while reeling in despair. Some were sitting cross-legged with eyes closed...


    Each statue had its own immense suppressive force.


    "Empyrean Lord."


    The remaining dozens of fiendcelestial guardians bowed respectfully and then continued flying into the black hole one after another.


    "Congratulations, Empyrean Lord. You will definitely conquer the Great Chang world this time." The nearly hundred Skyfiends followed behind as they began flattering him.


    "When that happens, there will be thirteen worlds under Empyrean Lord''s control."


    "It was quite a rush. We only managed to send the guardians by Empyrean Lord''s side over. There are still many third Firmament fiendcelestials scattered across the other eleven worlds. They weren''t able to rush over in such a short period of time," quipped a Skyfiend.


    Empyrean Lord looked up and watched silently. To the Skyfiends, this conquest was like any other one from the past! Only he knew... what the Great Chang world meant to him!


    "That Daoist Divine Firmament is a Green Touring Palace disciple after all. I originally planned on making many more preparations, enough to allow nearly a hundred Skyfiends to enter directly... Now, it seems just my vanguard''s Major Annihilation Dharma Formation is enough to clinch victory?" Empyrean Lord was somewhat agitated over the situation. He had been forced to prematurely attack because of the three Boor Ancestral Sect ants.


    At first he believed the odds were against him.


    But now, victory was very close at hand. His heart also began to burn with excitement.


    ...


    On the other side, in the Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched the huge battle happening above them. Daoist Divine Firmament and the rest appeared to be using all their strength, delivering a myriad of attacks. But against the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation, they did not have much of an upper hand.


    "Quick! Quick! Quick! Faster!" Skyfiend Jiuhu, the ox-headed and wolf-headed fiendcelestials watched excitedly as they urged their lowers on.


    Fiendcelestials kept flying out of the gigantic black hole.


    "Soon, all the fiendcelestial guardians will be out. A hundred and eight of them is enough to form the Major Annihilation Dharma Formation." The three watched with anticipation.


    "Ninety-seven, ninety-eight, ninety-nine."


    A distance away, Daoist Divine Firmament and company were paying close attention to the number of fiendcelestials opposite them. Patriarch Bai was even muttering through a voice transmission. "There''s a hundred! A hundred fiendcelestials have entered! Brother Zhang, isn''t it time for you to make your move? Don''t make certain victory blow up in our faces!"


    "Don''t worry." Daoist Divine Firmament''s eyes lit up.


    Sou!


    Far away on the horizon, a bolt of purple lightning flashed as another azure-robed middle-aged Daoist appeared.


    Daoist Divine Firmament wore a high-headdress, giving him quite a laudable bearing, but the middle-aged Daoist that appeared a distance away looked ordinary. Despite that, both of them looked identical and had similar auras.


    "That is¡ª"


    Qin Yun looked in astonishment at the distant middle-aged Daoist.


    A purple Dao talisman phantom about ten feet across appeared above both Ancestral Master Zhang and the middle-aged Daoist.


    "Boom!" The worldly powers surged and gathered, and instantly nearly all the Heaven and Earth powers in a radius of several hundred kilometers were forcefully pulled over. A gigantic Taiji symbol appeared with Ancestral Master Zhang and the middle-aged Daoist standing on each ''eye.''


    "What?"


    The large group of fiendcelestials looked up in horror at the massive Taiji symbol.


    It completely covered the sky above them like a heavenly curtain.


    In the middle of the Taiji symbol, sizzling sounds were being produced as lightning sparked.


    One''s heart trembled simply from looking upon it with the naked eye.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and the middle-aged Daoist opened their Eyes of Lightning and shouted, "Lightning Punishment!"


    "Boom!"


    Immediately, a purple bolt of lightning that had faint black and white Qi swirling around it struck one of the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formations. All the fiendcelestial guardians in the formation struck out with a saber flash as the other fiendcelestials elsewhere aided them.


    However, the saber mountain formed by saber flashes crumbled under the lightning strike. Portions of the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation that was formed by thirty-six fiendcelestials were swept by the lightning! All the fiendcelestial guardians turned to ash in the spots the lightning struck, leaving only their armor and artifacts remaining. Fifteen of the thirty-six fiendcelestials died instantly, and most importantly, the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation was destroyed.


    "Escape! Quickly!" Skyfiend Jiuhu and the other two fiendcelestials rushed towards the black hole in unison and in utter shock.


    "We have been fooled."


    "He was deliberately hiding his strength."


    "Run!"


    The third Firmament fiendcelestial guardians lost all their will to fight due to their fright. They split apart and frantically rushed towards the black hole.


    "Smite." Ancestral Master Zhang and the middle-aged Daoist coldly sent the lightning smiting down again.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The lightning that shot from the Taiji symbol was astonishingly fast. In a blink of an eye, it struck the group of fiendcelestials, shooting straight at the black hole first.


    Although Skyfiend Jiuhu, the ox-headed fiendcelestial, and the wolf-headed fiendcelestial were charging in that direction, the wolf-headed fiendcelestial was the first to enter.


    "Boom!"


    The purple lightning with the black-and-white swirls struck Skyfiend Jiuhu and also swept past the ox-headed fiendcelestial.


    "No¡ª" Jiuhu''s eyes were filled with indignation but it did not stop him from being reduced to ashes.


    The ox-headed fiendcelestial left behind a crystalline skeleton but his innards had been pulverized.


    ...


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched in awe. A hundred and six fiendcelestials had entered but only the wolf-headed fiendcelestial had escaped out of sheer luck! The rest were either dead or captured alive.


    "Spare me!"


    "Daoist Divine Firmament, spare us!"


    The fiendcelestials pleaded.


    Now that they were unable to form the Minor Annihilation Dharma Formation, they were unable to put up an inkling of resistance. Lightning tore through their bodies, sealing them of their Dharmic powers. They all had no choice but to plead for their lives.


    The end of the battle happened when the remaining seventy-five fiendcelestials were sealed of their strength.


    Every moment after Qin Yun weakened the array enough to crack was under the complete control of Ancestral Master Zhang and company.


    "Let''s go over," said Qin Yun to Yi Xiao.


    The two immediately flew over on a cloud.


    Daoist Divine Firmament and company, including Human Emperor''s avatar that had been watching all this while from afar, flew over too. They all congregated in front of the black hole.


    "Brother Zhang, this is?" Patriarch Bai and company looked at the azure-robed middle-aged Daoist with burning eagerness.


    They looked identical and also had very similar auras.


    They had the same divine powers and Dharma spells.


    "Greetings, everyone," said the azure-robed middle-aged Daoist.


    "This is my second Essence Soul," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Second Essence Soul?"


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    "Brother Zhang, you sure hid this well," said East Sea Skydragon with a smile. "I was still a little worried about the battle formation the fiendcelestials formed. Yet, you were filled with confidence. It''s all because your strength has long reached this level."


    "Aren''t you a third Firmament Skyimmortal?" The plump Patriarch Bai pouted. "You have exceeded all of us in one go."


    "I''m still a third Firmament Skyimmortal," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "However, my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma has not been completed after the fourth firmament Skyimmortal realm. Therefore, I have not been in a rush to make a breakthrough. After all, the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma is my main cultivation path."


    "What? You haven''t changed your main Dharmic formulation?" Skydemon Palatial Lord was astonished. "The Dao Ancestor has numerous powerful Dharmic formulations, yet you want to use the Dharmic formulation you created? It''s no wonder you cultivate so slowly!"


    "Master once said that my Lightning Dharma has great potential and that he wants me to study it carefully," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Since Master has said so, I naturally have to continue down the path of creation."


    Everyone gasped upon hearing that.


    Daoist Divine Firmament had really concealed his strength well.


    He had only revealed his true strength today!


    "It''s all thanks to Qin Yun." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "If not for him being able to crack the array formations from within, we would not have been able to enter."


    "I only did my part. It was eventually all thanks to Senior Zhang and everyone."


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun noticed that a figure was standing on the other end of the black hole in the fiendcelestial world, looking over towards them.


    "Daoist Divine Firmament? As expected of a Green Touring Palace disciple. I was always worried that my hasty operation would result in failure, and it really happened." Empyrean Lord''s voice transmitted from a great distance away. Although the losses were heavy, his heart only felt a tiny pinch. "Green Touring Palace disciples, no matter how unimpressive they are, are not to be belittled."


    "I was also lucky. If you succeeded in setting up your array formation, it would have been truly problematic when large swaths of Skyfiends charged in," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a humble smile.


    "Yes, your Great Chang world is very lucky to have produced a junior like that Qin Yun. He spoiled my plans." Empyrean Lord cast his gaze onto Qin Yun. "Punk, you are very powerful, especially for a mortal, to have such strength. I will definitely capture you in the future and refine you into a sculpture, placing you in front of my palace. There are currently sixteen such sculptures, split into two rows. Every time I enter and exit the palace, I see them. Even the weakest is a fifth Firmament Skyfiend! You should feel proud that you will one day be ranked among them."


    Ancestral Master Zhang and company turned exasperated hearing this but felt the pressure at the same time. This was an existence much stronger than them.


    However, Qin Yun stared intently at Empyrean Lord.


    Because this villain... was the reason for his separation from his wife and daughter! He had paid a humongous price to seek Puqu Dragonlord''s help before rescuing Yi Xiao! Yet, his daughter remained missing.


    The pain in his heart all these years, as well as his guilt for his lost daughter, transformed into hatred and killing intent for the Empyrean Lord in front of him.


    "Where''s my daughter?" Qin Yun glared at Empyrean Lord and asked.


    Empyrean Lord was slightly taken aback.


    Daughter?


    He glanced at Yi Xiao. "You saved your wife but you can''t save your daughter because she is long dead. I casually squashed her to death."


    Yi Xiao jolted as her eyes turned red.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and the rest were stunned. They could not help but look at the couple.


    "No, no..." Yi Xiao muttered.


    Qin Yun''s heart convulsed as his brain turned abuzz.


    "Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, don''t panic. Perhaps this Empyrean Lord is lying, concealing his real plans. Your daughter might still be alive," consoled Ancestral Master Zhang with a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun stared at Empyrean Lord through the black hole.


    "You will regret that," said Qin Yun with a deep, sunken voice.


    "Haha, regret? I have encountered too many people who made such threats. You will make me regret? Hahaha... interesting, really interesting." As Empyrean Lord spoke, he waved his hand as a terrifying might blanketed the black hole. It collapsed with a rumble.


    Qin Yun watched the collapsing black hole as he endured the anger and pain in his heart.


    "You will regret it, definitely." Qin Yun thought to himself. He buried all his killing intent deep in his heart. There would come a day when he would definitely storm that fiendcelestial world and slay that Empyrean Lord!

 425 Daughter and Supremacy

    Chapter 425: Daughter and Supremacy


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The news of the Boor Ancestral Sect''s destruction quickly spread through all the major factions in the Great Chang world, including the other eight lineages of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons.


    This was a fiendish demon faction that could be traced to ancient times! Its outright destruction left the other eight lineages shuddering in fear! They feared a crisis was at hand as they tried to investigate how the battle even began in the first place.


    There were remnant Boor Ancestral Sect disciples that spread the news while fiendish demon experts spied from afar. There were also those from the Daoist and Buddhist schools of thought that deliberately spread confusing information.


    "According to the Boor Ancestral Sect disciples, more than a hundred Other Realm Fiendcelestials entered our Great Chang world but were destroyed by Daoist Divine Firmament and company."


    "I heard that Boor Ancestral Sect''s destruction had to do with Qin Yun''s infiltration of the sect, where he wreaked havoc from within..."


    "I heard that even a Skyfiend came! They were killed or captured, not one escaped."


    There were all sorts of speculations.


    There was all sorts of information being spread, both genuine and fake.


    The remaining eight fiendish demon lineages felt great unease as they contacted the fiendcelestial world that backed them and reported everything.


    ...


    On a desolate mountain.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral, Aged Fiend Goat Horn, and Patriarch Monkey were sitting casually on rocks and drinking flasks of alcohol.


    "We fiendish demons have been declining since ancient times," said Aged Fiend Goat Horn. "First it was the rise of Daoist Divine Firmament, next it was the Godfiend''s Human Emperor! Now, this sword immortal, Qin Yun, has appeared. And Daoist Divine Firmament is one of the personal disciples of the legendary Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor of the Three Pure Ones. I knew our fiendish demon lineage''s days in the Great Chang world were limited and that there would come a day where we were wiped out, but I never expected that the first lineage of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons to be wiped out would be us, the Boor Ancestral Sect."


    "Our Boor Ancestral Sect was ranked in the top three among the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons when it came to strength yet we were the first to be wiped out." Sect Master Boor Ancestral shook his head.


    "Our fortune has run out." Patriarch Monkey shook his head.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral swept his gaze. "Although Daoist Divine Firmament, Qin Yun, and company are powerful and we might have crossed Empyrean Lord, the three of us managed to survive."


    "Haha, we lived! Being able to survive is worth celebrating." Aged Fiend Goat Horn laughed as he took a swig of the alcohol flask and poured it sloppily into his mouth, staining his beard with alcohol.


    "I do not have any plans on reestablishing the Boor Ancestral Sect," scoffed Sect Master Boor Ancestral. "Even if we can barely live by using an array formation, it would be an aggrieved existence. Ever since Daoist Divine Firmament rose to prominence, we have been living such an aggrieved existence for millennia. Years ago, we dominated the world and fiendcelestials even occupied cities. There were even fiendcelestials who controlled kingdoms. That was such a blast."


    "Yes, the past few millennia have been truly oppressive." Aged Fiend Goat Horn nodded.


    "The Daoist and Buddhist schools of thoughts are flourishing even more." Patriarch Monkey shook his head. "Reestablishing the Boor Ancestral Sect would only bring more suffering on ourselves."


    "Whatever. The situation is as such. It is humanly impossible to go against the tide of the situation," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral. "The three of us shall separate after we finish drinking! I plan to leave the Great Chang world and step into the Other Realm cosmos to travel around."


    "I wish to make a trip to the Other Realm cosmos as well. Brother Ox, shall we go together?" suggested Aged Fiend Goat Horn with a smile.


    Sect Master Boor Ancestral''s eyes lit up as he nodded. "Alright, we shall go together. Brother Monkey, what about you?"


    Patriarch Monkey''s wizened face took on an air of decline as he gently shook his head. "I''ve lived for too long. The tribulations on me are turning more potent and I do not want to continue this suffering. I want to see how the Great Chang world will continue developing and what sort of end the remaining Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons will meet."


    "Alright, but you have to be careful in the Great Chang world. Don''t be discovered by them," said Sect Master Boor Ancestral.


    "Don''t worry. I''m best at hiding from the Heavens." Patriarch Monkey nodded.


    "Alright, let''s separate after finishing the alcohol."


    The Boor Ancestral Sect trio clinked their alcohol flasks before tipping their heads to drink.


    Once upon a time...


    They reigned supreme over this land, astounding all surrounding factions! However, the situation had developed to a point where fiendish demons were at an absolute disadvantage.


    Now, the three of them were left pursuing different goals.


    "We''re leaving." Throwing away the alcohol flasks, Sect Master Boor Ancestral and Aged Fiend Goat Horn looked at Patriarch Monkey one last time before they whizzed into the sky, rapidly flying deep into the clouds and towards the Other Realm cosmos after passing through enough layers of clouds.


    Patriarch Monkey watched before he walked off with a stooped back. Soon, he vanished into the woods.


    ******


    In the fiendcelestial world.


    The square in front of the towering palace was made of black granite that was smooth and flat. Sixteen sculptures of experts stood on either side, split into two rows.


    Empyrean Lord was standing on one end of the square, looking at the vast lands before him.


    "Where''s my daughter?"


    "...I casually squashed her to death."


    Empyrean Lord could not help but recall the conversation that had just happened.


    Qin Yun''s inquiry about his daughter had indeed caused memories to surface deep within Empyrean Lord''s heart.


    That was something that had happened more than ten years ago.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s daughter had been in utero for three years. She was able to run the moment she was born.


    That day...


    The captured girl was inside a remote compound with two female attendants who were in charge of taking care of her, as well as guarding her.


    "Oh? A dragon race bloodline?" One day, a Daoist-robed man with yellow hair appeared out of thin air in the compound. He extended his hand with a smile and hugged the toddler.


    Empyrean Lord immediately discovered that an expert had infiltrated his lair as he flew over.


    When he saw the yellow-haired man, Empyrean Lord immediately recognized him and was stricken with fear.


    The Daoist-robed man looked up, his pale yellow eyes filled with coldness.


    Empyrean Lord shuddered in fear as he immediately prostrated himself and said extremely reverentially, "Greetings, Supremacy."


    "Are you afraid I''ll kill you?" The man chuckled. "Don''t worry, I have already gone against the Heavenly Courts. As long as you remain obedient and do not anger me, I won''t kill you."


    "Yes, yes, yes." Empyrean Lord was reeling in panic. He knew very well how murderous the person in front of him could be.


    "Enough, I want this female toddler." The man carried the toddler in one hand and waved the other, making the space before him warp as he vanished from the world.


    Only then did Empyrean Lord heave a sigh of relief and stand up.


    He turned his head and saw the two trembling attendants. They had seen everything.


    For them to see the scene of their mighty Empyrean Lord kneel in fright...


    "Hmph." With a cold snort, the two attendants were silently pulverized.


    They deserved death for seeing such an embarrassing scene!


    Although killing mortals did result in karma, the consequence of one or two ordinary mortals could be withstood at the Essence Soul realm. The tribulations would only be a little more terrifying. As for Skyimmortals and Skyfiends, they were better at resisting karma. For example, Empyrean Lord was a lot more powerful at resisting the effects of karma than Daoist Divine Firmament! He naturally did not care about killing two mortals! He would have to be a lot more careful if he killed mortals with great merit or those that enjoyed the light from providence.


    But if he was even stronger, such as a Golden Immortal, Buddha, or Patriarch Fiend, he could easily withstand the karmic effects even if he killed millions of mortals.


    ...


    Empyrean Lord stood there recalling that scene from yesteryear. He could not forget the sense of extreme fear.


    "Brother." The single-horned child flew over and asked with a chuckle, "Let me ask you something."


    "What is it?" Empyrean Lord looked at the child who was a Skyfiend of the Mental Demon lineage. He treated him well since Mental Demon Skyfiends were rare.


    "When Qin Yun asked about his daughter, you had quite an abnormal expression," said the child with a smile. "From what I understand of my elder brother, it''s unlikely that daughter was squashed to death."


    "Enough, don''t ask further."


    Empyrean Lord flicked his sleeve and left.


    The child was taken aback as he floated there in midair frowning, looking at the departing Empyrean Lord''s back. "Such a strong reaction?"

 426 I Canst Save Her!

    Chapter 426: I Can''t Save Her!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At the Divine Firmament Chapter, a wind blew across a lake, stirring up ripples across its surface. Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Patriarch Bai, Human Emperor, Skydemon Palatial Lord, East Sea Skydragon, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and Daoist Divine Firmament were sitting together.


    They were splitting the spoils of war.


    They were truly shocking. There were more than a hundred transcendent-grade armors, the value matching three to four superior-grade Numinous treasures! Furthermore, these third Firmament fiendcelestials each had their individual weapons and various treasures. All of them added up made for an astonishing figure.


    "These fiendcelestial guardian''s treasures might not be a lot on an individual basis, but a hundred added up matches six superior-grade Numinous treasures," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "The fact that we discovered the danger ahead of time and averted the disaster is all thanks to Qin Yun. I suggest that forty percent of the spoils of war should be given to Qin Yun. Do we all agree?"


    "All I did was help in cracking the array. It was Senior Zhang that really dealt with all those fiendcelestials," said Qin Yun immediately. "It was Senior Zhang''s vigorous efforts that turned the tide and averted this disaster. How can I be given all the credit?"


    "Hahaha..." Patriarch Bai said with a laugh. "I''m the oldest here, so let me decide on the matter. Brother Zhang is the strongest among all of us. He also needs the most treasures for cultivation. Finally, he was the one who vanquished the group of fiendcelestials. He shall be given half. Qin Yun''s role in this matter was extremely crucial as well. Without him, we would not have been able to crack the array formation. He shall be given thirty percent. The five of us will split the remaining twenty percent equally. Although we only stayed by the side aiding indirectly, we did put in some effort despite not accomplishing anything noteworthy."


    "We aren''t taking advantage of you," said East Sea Skydragon with a smile.


    "I was only watching the battle by the side yet I''m benefiting from it. I''m really ashamed," added Human Emperor.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa and Skydemon Palatial Lord smiled in agreement.


    Ancestral Master Zhang hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Alright. Qin Yun, don''t speak any further. We shall split it as such."


    Qin Yun could only nod in agreement when he saw everyone''s expressions.


    Patriarch Bai and the other four had agreed to such a split for two reasons.


    Firstly, they had really not contributed much. Secondly, the strength Daoist Divine Firmament showcased left them astounded. They felt the huge gap between them! It was only because Daoist Divine Firmament needed to create a more profound Dharmic formulation for the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma that he remained in the third Firmament Skyimmortal realm and purposefully avoided making any breakthroughs. As for Qin Yun, he had only cultivated for decades but he was able to suppress ordinary Skyimmortals and Skyfiends with his mortal coils.


    Daoist Divine Firmament was naturally powerful but Qin Yun similarly had extraordinary potential. His achievements were bound to exceed the five of them!


    All of them were willing to yield to him.


    In the past, they had vaguely treated Daoist Divine Firmament as their leader but now, there was no need to keep it concealed. Daoist Divine Firmament was definitely the leader of the Great Chang world''s cultivation community.


    ...


    After splitting the spoils of war, one fiendcelestial after another was sent in for questioning.


    Only the scouts that entered the Great Chang world ahead of time were planted with Mental Demons to keep the invasion plans a secret. The ordinary third Firmament fiendcelestial guardians were relatively weaker, so Empyrean Lord was unworried about their potential for betrayal. Hence, they were unqualified to be planted with Mental Demon seeds.


    Qin Yun and company sat down and saw a fiendcelestial being escorted over. The fiendcelestial''s Dharmic powers were sealed and it was feeling somewhat uneasy.


    "Be honest. Answer whatever is asked. You are doomed if we realize you have lied by saying anything that differs from the other fiendcelestials," a Divine Firmament Chapter Elder in charge of escorting the fiendcelestial bellowed.


    "Yes." The third Firmament fiendcelestial answered obediently.


    "Master, here is one of the fiendcelestials," said the Elder when he escorted the fiendcelestial over.


    Patriarch Bai looked at the fiendcelestial and asked, "What''s your Empyrean Lord''s name?"


    "Our Empyrean Lord''s name is Kuifu."


    Ancestral Master Zhang was enlightened. "It''s indeed him."


    Qin Yun asked anxiously, "Do you know of a female toddler that was sent to the fiendcelestial world by Fiendcelestial Wuha about seventeen years ago?"


    Yi Xiao looked gripped with anxiety as well.


    "Female toddler? Yes," replied the fiendcelestial guardian. "We are all guardians of Empyrean Lord, so we naturally know of the matter."


    "Where is she now?" pressed Qin Yun immediately.


    "We heard she was placed under house arrest at first. But later she infuriated Empyrean Lord and he killed her, as well as her maidservants," said the fiendcelestial. "As guardians, we are by Empyrean Lord''s side perennially, so most of us have heard that same story."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s face turned white when they heard that.


    Had she really been killed?


    "Did anyone see it with their own eyes?" asked Skydemon Palatial Lord with furrowed brows.


    "Actually, no." The fiendcelestial shook his head after some thought.


    Ancestral Master Zhang asked, "Why would Empyrean Lord pay such a tremendous price to conquer our Great Chang world?"


    "How could we dare question Empyrean Lord on his decision to conquer a world?" said the fiendcelestial.


    ...


    "Next," said Patriarch Bai.


    The fiendcelestial guardians were questioned one after another but the results only made Qin Yun and Yi Xiao more anxious.


    The fiendcelestials'' accounts were mostly the same. As they were guardians of Empyrean Lord, many of them had heard about the female toddler! They heard that she had been killed for enraging Empyrean Lord! However, none of them actually saw the murder with their own eyes.


    "It''s strange to kill a female toddler and even the maidservants," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "He is very strong, strong enough to easily withstand the karmic effects of killing a few mortals. However, there''s no need for him to do so, nor would he do so wantonly. After all, if he killed a few this time out of anger, and a few the next time, over time, the accumulated karma will still be huge. Skyimmortals and Skyfiends typically hold back. They do not kill mortals unless necessary! If the girl had truly infuriated him, he only needed to kill her. Why would he kill the maidservants as well?"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao nodded immediately.


    "Yes, yes, yes," said Yi Xiao.


    "My daughter might very well be still alive," added Qin Yun.


    Human Emperor frowned and said, "Those fiendcelestial guardians only heard of the murder of the girl despite being personal guards. Qin Yun, if your child is still alive... where would she be? How can we investigate the matter?"


    "It will be difficult." Patriarch Bai shook his head. "There''s no way for us to enter that fiendcelestial world to investigate. Entering that world spells certain death."


    "Yes, it''s suicidal." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "That Empyrean Lord Kuifu''s strength is much greater than mine."


    "So the only way to investigate is through divination?" asked Skydemon Palatial Lord.


    "Divining the details of a life in a distant world across the cosmos far exceeded the means available to Skyimmortals. It''s only possible for a mighty figure." Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun. "From the looks of it, the only way is to seek Puqu Dragonlord''s help again. He is the only mighty figure willing to help us."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "Let''s not delay matters. I''ll seek an audience with the Dragonlord now."


    Everyone present turned solemn.


    Mighty figures at the level of Golden Immortals or Buddhas... were legendary! Even they were considered lucky to be able to meet a mighty figure as ordinary Skyimmortals and a Skygod. Perhaps only Ancestral Master Zhang might chance upon a mighty figure in Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao and consoled her, "Don''t worry. Dragonlord has extraordinary powers. I was able to rescue you thanks to him. I believe he will definitely be able to help save our daughter."


    Following that, Qin Yun took out a token with the words ''Puqu'' engraved on it.


    He activated it.


    Buzz¡ª


    The token projected a spot in distant space. In that vast starry sky was Puqu Dragonlord''s massive coiled body. His dragon scales contained Dao charms and when he opened his eyes, they were more blinding than the sun. Qin Yun and company did not dare look him directly in the eye.


    "Dragonlord." Qin Yun and company, including Yi Xiao, bowed.


    "Little guy, it''s you again?" Puqu Dragonlord smiled as his long dragon whiskers flailed.


    Qin Yun took out a golden seal. It was the superior-grade Minor Empyrean Seal.


    With it in hand, he bowed and beseeched, "I am offering this treasure, to shamelessly seek Dragonlord''s help once again to rescue my daughter. My daughter also has dragon blood flowing through her."


    Qin Yun did not mind giving up the Minor Empyrean Seal if it meant reuniting his family.


    "Your daughter?"


    Puqu Dragonlord looked at Qin Yun through the distance space before looking at Yi Xiao.


    He could easily see the couple''s karmic lines. Much of the karma was concealed or obstructed but his eyes could easily penetrate to see the threads. He traced one of the karmic lines... rapidly traversing distant space to a distant world where the other end of the karmic line was.


    "Oh?"


    Spying on that world from afar, he saw a girl practicing her swordsmanship on a mountain diligently. She had a wound on her face.


    He easily found Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s daughter but it made anger flash in his eyes.


    "Your daughter is in the Skywolf world! I can''t save her. If you want to save her, rely on yourself!" Puqu Dragonlord''s voice rumbled. As his words continued echoing, the spatial rift closed.


    Perhaps it was because he was unable to rescue the girl, or perhaps due to his anger, Puqu Dragonlord did not take the Minor Empyrean Seal away from Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun was taken aback when he heard that, he was still mid-bow and holding up the seal.


    "My daughter is still alive!" Qin Yun was pleasantly surprised but also anxious. "But even a mighty figure like Puqu Dragonlord can''t save her?"


    "Skywolf world? It''s Yellow-robed Supremacy?" Ancestral Master Zhang found it unbelievable.

 427 Yellow-robed Supremacy

    Chapter 427: Yellow-robed Supremacy


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    By the side of the lake, Patriarch Bai, Human Emperor, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, East Sea Skydragon, and company were startled by Puqu Dragonlord suddenly closing the void rift.


    "Dragonlord appears to be somewhat furious?"


    "When Qin Yun asked for his help, he appeared to be in quite a good mood. Why did he turn angry after discovering Qin Yun''s daughter was in the Skywolf world and claim that he can''t rescue her?"


    "Yes, Dragonlord is a mighty figure, how is it possible that he can''t save her?"


    Everyone was perplexed.


    Yi Xiao was the weakest junior present. She looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Yun?"


    "Xiaoxiao, regardless of anything else, our daughter is still alive and in the Skywolf world," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "Senior Zhang." Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang. He noticed that while everyone else looked perplexed, Ancestral Master Zhang strangely appeared to know what was happening.


    "Where is the Skywolf world? Why would Dragonlord not be able to rescue her?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Brother Zhang, explain it to us."


    "With your knowledge, you should know where the Skywolf world is." All of them looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Ancestral Master Zhang frowned slightly before saying, "The Skywolf world is another Small World, but there is an existence that lives there, one that is famous throughout the Three Realms."


    "Famous throughout the Three Realms?" Qin Yun and company were astonished.


    "Brother Zhang," asked Human Emperor. "Mighty figures are unable to enter Small Worlds. Those that can live in Small Worlds are at most ninth firmament Skyimmortals. How can someone of that level be famous throughout the Three Realms?"


    "He is known by the various factions of the Three Realms as Yellow-robed Supremacy," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "He is also the strongest wolf demon of the Three Realms."


    Qin Yun and company listened carefully.


    There were countless demons in existence, and this was the strongest wolf demon in the Three Realms?


    "In the ancient period of the Three Realms, countless demons proliferated across the billions of worlds amid the endless cosmos," said Daoist Divine Firmament. "Back then, the demon population was at its peak, resulting in the formation of the Ancient Heavenly Courts! The Ancient Heavenly Courts mainly had demons as soldiers and generals, and even the Celestial Ruler."


    "Ever since Goddess N¨¹wa created mankind, demons found their match in mankind''s perceptiveness and ability to procreate. It made them more versatile than demons, allowing humans to gradually proliferate," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "With the passage of time, the demons'' standing in the Three Realms began to waver until... the Ancient Heavenly Courts were replaced, resulting in the present-day Heavenly Courts. More than ninety percent of the soldiers and generals of the present Heavenly Courts comprises of humans. Even Jade Emperor was a human that cultivated successfully."


    "Therefore, humans are favored by the providence of the Three Realms," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun and company were shocked.


    The Three Realms actually had such a history? There was even an Ancient Heavenly Courts?


    "Yellow-robed Supremacy was once a great demon during the Ancient Heavenly Courts era," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "As the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure did not discriminate in his teachings, many demons also came under Master''s tutelage. One of them was this Yellow-robed Supremacy."


    "He is also a personal disciple of the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor?" Human Emperor was astounded.


    "He''s Brother Zhang''s senior brother?" Patriarch Bai was surprised.


    Ancestral Master Zhang said with a sigh, "How can I compare with Senior Brother Yellow-robed? The gap is just too wide."


    "After the collapse of the Ancient Heavenly Courts, Senior Brother Yellow-robed continued cultivating under Master''s tutelage," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, the three Daoist factions have had many internal conflicts in history. One of these civil strifes was particularly influential. My Green Touring Palace was the main loser of the incident and many disciples were captured. Senior Brother Yellow-robed was one of them."


    "The new Heavenly Courts were established, and twenty-eight relatively powerful demons were chosen from the captives to be the Twenty-eight Lunar Mansions."


    "As Senior Brother Yellow-robed was extremely strong, he was made the leader of the seven lunar mansions of the White Tiger in the west¡ªLegs Wood Wolf!"


    "For him to be named the leader of the western mansion, you can imagine how powerful Senior Brother Yellow-robed is." Ancestral Master Zhang sighed. "As a Heavenly Courts'' Lunar Mansion, over time, he was given command over heavenly soldiers and generals. He fought in wars across the Three Realms so as to enforce the authority of the Heavenly Courts."


    "Later on, it was rumored that due to his wife and son, as well as the Heavenly Courts'' Buddhist faction, Senior Brother Yellow-robed eventually went mad and engaged in a massacre. He even rebelled against the Heavenly Courts." Ancestral Master Zhang sighed. "I''m unaware of the details but I heard that his wife and son lost their lives in that conflict."


    "His wife and son died?" Everyone was taken aback.


    "He did not seek out their reincarnated selves and receive them?" pressed Patriarch Bai.


    "No."


    Ancestral Master Zhang continued, "There were too many things that happened which I''m not aware of. I only know that Senior Brother Yellow-robed now lives alone in the Skywolf world."


    "Sigh, I heard from my senior brothers and sisters that Senior Brother Yellow-robed had quite a magnanimous character originally. The rest of twenty-eight lunar mansions were very impressed by him." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "But after that incident, he suffered a huge change in temperament! He cut ties with all his relationships and became capricious. He even turned downright murderous. In the entire Three Realms, only Master is able to make him obey him."


    "As for ordinary fellow disciples like us, he completely ignores us," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, I would like to note that although he is bloodthirsty, he has not done anything ruthless to a Green Touring Palace disciple. He still takes into account our shared heritage."


    Everyone present nodded.


    Qin Yun did feel some pity for him. Having experienced separation from his wife, Qin Yun could understand Yellow-robed Supremacy.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy''s story involved many things that were much more complicated than Qin Yun''s.


    "That senior brother of mine cultivates in a Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation established by ancient demons. He was already a ninth firmament Skydemon during the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. Later, when he trained under my master, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, he cultivated in Green Touring Palace Dharmic formulations. He became even more powerful," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, he never took that final step to become a mighty figure. However, he is extremely skilled in battle. He is in no way inferior to mighty figures in a head-on battle. From ancient times until now, be it the war of the Ancient Heavenly Courts, the war of the three factions, or his campaigns after becoming a lunar mansion, he has engaged in countless battles. The number of Golden Immortals and Buddhas he has fought probably numbers in the dozens. In terms of melee combat, he is definitely one of the best in the Three Realms. He was also an extremely famous combat general while he was in the Heavenly Courts."


    "After he rebelled against the Heavenly Courts and turned capricious, he once captured several dragons. Among them were a bunch of them were Skydragons. He skinned them and drained their blood just to study the dragon bloodline." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "Therefore, the dragons show animosity towards Senior Brother Yellow-robed. There have also fought in secret before."


    "Why did he capture the dragons?" Qin Yun and company were baffled.


    Ancestral Master Zhang explained, "Dragons are also considered demons in a sense, but the dragon bloodline is extremely powerful, exceeding the bloodlines of every other demon class! The dragons are even one of the major factions in the Three Realms! The Ancestral Dragon had nine sons, each born to be at the pinnacle Skydragon realm. The dragons pass down their strength more perfectly than any other race, and dragons are well known for their powerful bodies. For example, the nine sons of the Ancestral Dragon have strength so ridiculous that they can match mighty figures. Some innately match nine firmament Skydemons of the Physical Establishing Sage. Their talents are just too perfect."


    "Senior Brother Yellow-robed captured these dragons and carefully studied the mystery behind the dragon bloodline before infusing it into his own Dharmic formulation," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "Although there were dragons that luckily lived through his experiments, quite a considerable number of dragons died because of them. How can the dragons not hate him?"


    "But... even in the Other Realm cosmos, Senior Brother Yellow-robed is capable of fighting mighty figures. In a Small World, there is nothing for him to fear," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Even after he engaged in open rebellion against the Heavenly Courts, the Heavenly Courts have only turned a blind eye towards him."


    "Furthermore, many of the high-ranking generals in the Heavenly Courts were Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s good friends. Even if they are sent to capture him, they only do it for show. Of course, even if they truly engaged him in battle, they probably could not do much to Senior Brother Yellow-robed."


    Qin Yun and company were enlightened.


    An existence that enjoyed a high standing since the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. It was no wonder Puqu Dragonlord did not wish to speak to Qin Yun and company any further about him.


    This was because Yellow-robed Supremacy would ignore Puqu Dragonlord! His relationship with the dragons was terrible.


    "If it was Senior Brother Yellow-robed back when he was a lunar mansion, the situation would be easy." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "But the present capricious Senior Brother Yellow-robed, only Master in the Three Realms can make him obey. His other fellow disciples will not work."


    "Why would my daughter be in the Skywolf world?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "She was originally in the fiendcelestial world but she was moved to the Skywolf world. That Empyrean Lord even claimed to have squashed her to death," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Clearly, Empyrean Lord lied. But why would he lie? It''s likely that Senior Brother Yellow-robed took your daughter. That Empyrean Lord probably made those claims to save himself from embarrassment. That''s the only explanation that makes sense."


    Yi Xiao turned anxious. "Ancestral Master, why did he take my daughter away? Our daughter has a dragon bloodline. Will he..."


    "Yes, he has been quite ruthless to dragons." Patriarch Bai frowned.


    "This..." Ancestral Master Zhang did not have the confidence to make any claims.


    He had never seen his senior brother. After all, he had only been cultivating for a few millennia.


    "I have to think of a way to save my daughter," said Qin Yun anxiously.


    A capricious lunatic that experimented with dragon bloodlines! It was not unthinkable that he would do something to Qin Yun''s daughter!

 428 Creating a Sword Immortal Dharmic Formulation Independently?

    Chapter 428: Creating a Sword Immortal Dharmic Formulation Independently?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Senior Zhang, where is the Skywolf world?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "The Skywolf world is in the Effulgent World''s dominion. As you are mortal, it would not be difficult for you to head to the Skywolf world," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, the real challenge will be taking your daughter away from the Skywolf world."


    "But my daughter might in grave danger now. How can I pretend like it isn''t happening?" Qin Yun could not hide his anxiety.


    "The present Yellow-robed Supremacy is capricious in nature. Although he still bears some sentiment towards Green Touring Palace disciples, about thirty to forty percent of all Daoist cultivators in the Three Realms are from the Numinous Treasure lineage. It''s an uncountable number. He won''t show mercy to just any cultivator from the Numinous Treasure lineage," warned Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "I understand," said Qin Yun. "All I want to do is rescue my daughter. He used to have a child himself, after all. If he really kills me because of this, there is nothing I can say."


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "Even if I were to die, there are many people willing to receive me." Qin Yun consoled his wife. "In the Effulgent Great World, the direct sword cultivation line of the Grand Supreme lineage and the Primordial Beginning lineage have already given me their word."


    "If you choose to reincarnate, that''s a good thing too." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "After all, creating a sword immortal Dharmic formulation yourself is indeed very difficult. You are from the Numinous Treasure lineage. The ones to receive you should be us from the Numinous Treasure lineage. How can we leave it to the Grand Supreme or the Primordial Beginning people?"


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "That''s only in the worst case scenario. Perhaps I might successfully rescue my daughter and bring her back."


    "It''s a pity I have never met Senior Brother Yellow-robed," said Ancestral Master Zhang regretfully. "I can''t help you much. Master does not discriminate in his teachings and has tens of thousands of disciples. There are many of my senior brothers I have not met, and so I do not have much of a relationship with them. I''m considered one of the later recruits of the Green Touring Palace and my strength is rated at the bottom. To be honest... many disciples do not think much of me in the Green Touring Palace. After all, strength is most important in the cultivation world. One will only be respected if they are strong."


    "Brother Zhang cultivates slowly because he wants to create the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma himself," said Patriarch Bai.


    "It''s much easier for me than it is for Qin Yun. After all, there are many Lightning Dharma for me to reference in Green Touring Palace. There are also many talisman amulet Dharmic formulations to reference," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    East Sea Skydragon said, "Brother Zhang, you are a Green Touring Palace disciple. Your standing should mean something, right?"


    "Qin Yun, you have my memento. If you were to go to the Skywolf world and meet Yellow-robed Supremacy, use it to contact me immediately. Perhaps on account of me being a Green Touring Palace disciple, he might spare you. That''s all I can do," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I only have a handful of senior brothers and sisters that I''m close to in Green Touring Palace. And they are all recently recruited disciples like myself. I have never met Senior Brother Yellow-robed Supremacy either. After all, he already had a post in the Heavenly Courts when it was first established."


    "Thank you, Senior Zhang," said Qin Yun gratefully. Yi Xiao bowed gratefully as well, "Thank you, Ancestral Master."


    "But you have to be careful," advised Ancestral Master Zhang. "After all, Senior Brother Yellow-robed has become a very sinister person."


    "Yes, I''ll return to think about it and see if there are any solutions. If there are none, I''ll head to the Skywolf world," said Qin Yun.


    "Don''t be in a hurry. I''ll ask my friends, they might be able to help us think of something. I''ll give you an answer in half a month."


    "Thank you, Senior Zhang (Ancestral Master)." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao said gratefully.


    ...


    Soon, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao bade farewell and returned to Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance.


    Grand Dominance City, Qin Manor.


    Qin Liehu and Changlan were very happy to see Qin Yun and Yi Xiao return together.


    Later that day, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao held a banquet and invited their good friends, Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu.


    "I wish to rescue my daughter. Brother Hong and Brother Eighth Zhu, both of you are reincarnated immortals with great knowledge. I wonder if you can think of any solutions?" asked Qin Yun.


    Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu exchanged looks.


    "I have also long heard of Yellow-robed Supremacy," said Eighth Zhu. "It''s definitely impossible to use force when dealing with him, so the only way is to do it diplomatically! Yellow-robed Supremacy has subordinates in the Skywolf world as well. Perhaps there might be hope if you focus your efforts on his subordinates instead of him."


    "You still have to go to the Skywolf world and something like this can''t be rushed. First figure out the situation before planning your strategy," added Hong Lingtong. "We do not have any good ideas either."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded slightly. He was only trying to brainstorm. After all, both of them had the experience of a past life and had wider breadth of knowledge.


    After they sent off Hong Lingtong and Eighth Zhu, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sat by the side of the mirror lake.


    "Let''s wait for Senior Zhang. He might get some ideas from asking his friends," said Qin Yun.


    "Boom!"


    A purple bolt of lightning flashed in the distance as it landed at their side.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked in astonishment. Speaking of Ancestral Master Zhang!


    "Senior Zhang, is there any news?" Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Not really, but there''s someone who wants to meet you," said Ancestral Master Zhang. He pointed into midair and a rift appeared out of the void. On the other end of the rift was a smiling blue-robed Daoist.


    He looked at Qin Yun warmly. "My young friend, Qin Yun."


    "Qin Yun, this is the sect master of Golden Light Sect of the Effulgent Great World, Yu Tong," introduced Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Senior Yu." Qin Yun bowed immediately.


    "Uncle-Master Zhang, you should have told me earlier that your Great Chang world has produced such a powerful cultivator," said the blue-robed Daoist. "It was only after I learned that there was a person named Qin Yun on the Roll that I investigated carefully and learned that he came from the Great Chang world."


    Qin Yun understood immediately. He thought to himself, "I have heard of the Golden Light Sect sect master before. He is an eighth firmament Skyimmortal. I never expected him to address Ancestral Master Zhang as Uncle-Master Zhang. That means that he wasn''t taken in as a disciple of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor?"


    Although Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor had many students, he did have some conditions.


    Just having the strength of a seventh or eighth firmament Skyimmortal did not necessarily mean one would be chosen as a disciple of the Dao Ancestor.


    "Our Great Chang world experienced a calamity recently so the matter was delayed," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Qin Yun," Yu Tong looked at Qin Yun through the distance space. "I know the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage and the Primordial Beginning lineage have invited you. However, you are ultimately a disciple of our Numinous Treasure lineage. They will have to wait their turn. If you are willing to enter my Golden Light Sect, many top Dharmic formulations can be made available for your selection. Of course, our Golden Light Sect does not have any sword immortal Dharmic formulations. Only the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s creation of the sword immortal lineage exists in the Three Realms. And as you know, it is a secret heritage."


    "Enter the Golden Light Sect? I''ll need to think about it," said Qin Yun.


    He had no plans to convert his cultivation so there was no need for him to enter a sect.


    Entering a sect had its benefits but there were responsibilities as well.


    "As it is our first meeting, I have some gifts for you. Our Numinous Treasure lineage is not as stingy as the Grand Supreme or Primordial Beginning lineages." Yu Tong waved his hand, immediately sending a few manuals across the void rift.


    Qin Yun raised his hand and caught the thick manuals.


    "This is a manual that allows cultivation to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma. I chanced upon it and it''s not considered a manual of the Golden Light Sect, so I can give it to you," said Yu Tong with a smile. "Although it''s not a top Dharmic formulation in the Three Realms, it''s considered quite an orthodox Dharmic formulation among Daoists. There are many Dharma spells and methods to refine Dharma treasures. It details how one should cultivate from mortality to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. You can use it as reference to create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation. As for these three other books, they are some incomplete records regarding the sword immortal lineage. The entire Three Realms have always been watching the sword immortal lineage. These incomplete records might give you some inspiration in creating a sword immortal Dharmic formulation."


    Qin Yun casually browsed through them as his eyes lit up. He immediately said, "Thank you, Senior Yu."


    "You can attempt to create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation. However, other than Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, no one in the Three Realms has ever created an Essence Soul realm sword immortal Dharmic formulation. That path is just too difficult," said Yu Tong. "If you find it to be impossible, please choose to reincarnate. We will immediately receive you! When you awaken your past life''s memories, your attainments might be even higher if you take a different path."


    Ancestral Master Zhang said immediately, "Qin Yun, if you were to create an Essence Soul realm sword immortal Dharmic formulation, you will be the only one that has ever succeeded in the Three Realms. With my understanding of Master, he will likely take you in as a disciple upon seeing that. You will also become a Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor disciple. With Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s character, he will not harm the daughter of a Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor disciple."


    "Yes, I will be able to rescue my daughter that way." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. He looked at the manuals in hand as felt an intense yearning.


    He had to... he had to create an Essence Soul sword immortal Dharmic formulation!


    It was for his own cultivation path and for his daughter!

 429 The Essence Soul is a Sword?

    Chapter 429: The Essence Soul is a Sword?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Jiang Prefecture''s Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    Ancestral Master Zhang had left, so it was just Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sitting in the yard. The manuals were placed on the stone table.


    "The Dao is not something readily instructed." Qin Yun looked at the manuals on the stone table, especially the thick Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma. The cover and pages appeared to him as an unfathomably deep sea. Qin Yun sighed, "And now, this Golden Light Sect''s sect master has given me an orthodox Daoist Dharmic formulation that allows one to cultivate straight to the ninth Firmament Skyimmortal realm. I''m heavily indebted to him."


    "Is it that useful to you, Brother Yun?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Very." Qin Yun nodded. "Xiaoxiao, you know that I''m an itinerant cultivator, with only the world and nature as my teacher! However, how quickly does knowledge come when the world and nature is your teacher? Truly superior Dharmic formulations will guide disciples into constantly improving. The Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma is one such Dharmic formulation. I gained a few bits of inspiration just from casually flipping through it just now. Going forward, I plan on cultivating seriously. We have been separated for nineteen years and we should spend much time together, but in the following days I have to focus my mind on studying the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma and the three sword immortal manuals."


    "Brother Yun, ignore me. Right now, the only thing I look forward to with every moment of my life is finding our daughter, and reuniting our family." Yi Xiao said with eyes red.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    ...


    In the following days, Qin Yun focused on cultivation.


    The Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma was broad and profound, encompassing all sorts of myriad phenomena including Dharma spells, array formations, and the refinement of artifacts.


    Every bit of it was extremely detailed, allowing a mortal to go to the ninth firmament of the Skyimmortal realm! It broadened the perspectives of an itinerant cultivator like Qin Yun, allowing him to draw on it to further improve his understandings.


    "The condensation of an Essence Soul..."


    In his cultivation chamber, a Thousand Calamity Mind Focusing Bead was embedded in the ceiling. Fragrance permeated the chamber, allowing Qin Yun to fully immerse himself in the manuals.


    "Dharmic powers contained in a sword immortal''s Golden Core are made up of countless sharp Sword Qi! To fuse it with the soul, so as to condense an Essence Soul... that is extremely difficult." Qin Yun pondered, "In the vast Three Realms, several mighty figures have probably attempted to infer one. However, it stops at inference without them actually cultivating in it. The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor did not cultivate in the sword immortal lineage either. He relied merely on inferring to create it."


    "My only advantage is that I cultivate in the sword immortal lineage and have cultivated a sword immortal Golden Core."


    Alone in the chamber, Qin Yun continued flipping through the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma as he pondered over the sword immortal Dharmic formulation needed to condense an Essence Soul.


    "All these years, I have occasionally thought about how an Essence Soul is condensed."


    "Having read the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma, it seems I have three paths I can take."


    ...


    Sitting cross-legged in the chamber, Qin Yun''s body was covered in a faint mist that enshrouded him like a robe. He appeared even more otherworldly.


    "Cultivation one step at a time, each step being taught in great detail. I have only cultivated for three days and have already gained a basic mastery of the All Heavens Cloud Shroud." Qin Yun did not cultivate in the Dharmic powers, refine Dharma treasures or studied array formations... He mainly pondered over the detailed introduction of every cultivation step in the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma as well as the various Dharma spells included in it.


    He could also cultivate in the Dharma spells.


    These included escape arts, body protection arts, as well as decimation arts.


    Dharma spells were the practical use of the Dao. As he engaged in cultivating in the Dharma spells, Qin Yun''s insights gradually deepened his realm.


    Another half a month passed.


    Only then did Qin Yun begin to flip through the three sword immortal cultivation manuals.


    "These have to be fragmentary records or information gained from spying on the Grand Supreme''s sword immortal lineage." Qin Yun flipped through them and his eyes instantly lit up. "Oh? This is a sword move from the Grand Supreme sword immortals? It''s truly sharp."


    The records were very incomplete.


    The records of some sword arts were forcibly memorized by those of a high realm when sword immortals cast their sword arts. Some could even discern the charm behind the sword art. However, others did not have an Intrinsic Flying Sword or sword immortal Dharmic powers... The potency of the same move would only be much weaker when used by them.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun quickly reached the second manual. When he flipped to one of its pages, he could not help but be taken aback. "A sword immortal''s condensation of an Essence Soul is different from ordinary Daoist cultivators. Their Essence Soul... is a sword?"


    "Sword?"


    "The Essence Soul is a sword?"


    Qin Yun''s head buzzed as many ideas flooded his mind.


    All three paths he had inferred were ones he independently figured out. However, none of them came with the idea that the Essence Soul was a sword.


    After all, most Daoist cultivators would end up with a tiny person once their Essence Soul was condensed.


    The sword immortal lineage was different from nearly all the other Daoist schools of thought. Its Essence Soul is a sword?


    "It''s a sword?"


    "If it''s a sword, how should the Golden Core and soul overlap?" Qin Yun began thinking over the matter.


    ...


    Cultivation knew no time.


    As Qin Yun was skilled in the Cyclic Sword Flash, the All Heavens Cloud Shroud was the most suitable Dharma spell for him among all the Dharma spells of the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma. He had also cultivated in some of the fragmentary sword art records from the three manuals, allowing him to deepen his understanding.


    In a blink of an eye, half a year had passed.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Cold winds blew as snowflakes the size of goose feathers scattered across the world.


    The door creaked open.


    Qin Yun finally came out of seclusion.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao came to receive him.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun smiled. "I have some confidence that I can condense an Essence Soul."


    "Have you created a sword immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation by yourself?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Condensing an Essence Soul would naturally be easy if I were an ordinary Golden Core Daoist. With my present realm, I can easily create an ordinary cultivation Dharmic formulation. However, sword immortal Dharmic powers are too sharp and overbearing. It''s hundreds if not thousands of times harder for us to condense an Essence Soul," said Qin Yun. "Over the past half year, I have come up with several possibilities. I perfected each one and selected the best, finally deciding on a particular path. I also have a Dharmic formulation that can condense an Essence Soul."


    "You will definitely succeed." Yi Xiao looked forward to it as well.


    "I have to try to truly succeed," said Qin Yun wistfully. "You will know how difficult it is only when you attempt to do it. I learned that the Grand Supreme sword cultivators condense an Essence Soul in the form of a sword. From that, I know that the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor must have gone down a different path, different from ordinary Daoist cultivation paths."


    "A sword?" Yi Xiao was perplexed.


    "An Essence Soul in the form of a sword truly makes one deserving to be called a sword immortal," said Qin Yun. "Xiaoxiao, I plan on going out on a trip to the West Sea''s Ancient Skydragon Palace."


    "The Ancient Skydragon Palace?" Yi Xiao understood immediately. "You plan on exploring the Ancient Skydragon Palace thoroughly?"


    "With my strength, I''m fully capable of visiting the entirety of the Ancient Skydragon Palace. I''m also doing it to distract myself," said Qin Yun. "While distracted, I can relax my mind. It will also allow me to consider the Dharmic formulation that condenses the Essence Soul. My projection at the moment is to attempt to condense the Essence Soul after the new year."


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    If he condensed a sword immortal Essence Soul, he would be the only person in all of the Three Realm to create an Essence Soul sword immortal Dharmic formulation apart from the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor.


    It would definitely cause a stir all over the Three Realms!


    It was even possible that the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure would take him in as a disciple just as Ancestral Master Zhang said. When that happened, he could save his daughter.


    "It''s good to go out and distract your mind. After all, you have been cultivating arduously for months. Stillness and motion coincide with the way the Heavenly Dao and nature work," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    However, he felt pressure.


    What should he do... if he failed to condense an Essence Soul?


    ...


    On the twenty-seventh day of the last month of the year, Qin Yun left Grand Dominance, heading for the West Sea''s Ancient Skydragon Palace.

 430 That Ancient Skydragon from the West Sea

    Chapter 430: That Ancient Skydragon from the West Sea


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The West Sea was vast to the point of seeming endless.


    Qin Yun flew over it on a cloud but his mind was elsewhere.


    The Dharmic formulation of condensing a sword immortal Essence Soul constantly surfaced in his mind, as he deliberated over it again and again.


    The body was capable of accommodating mistakes. Even if a Dharmic formulation had flaws, one could still condense an Essence Soul. It was also why Dharmic formulations had different grades.


    Qin Yun did not wish to create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation that could match the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s.


    Even if it was a little weaker...


    It was enough as long as he successfully condensed a sword immortal Essence Soul.


    "Am I getting too caught up in the nitty-gritty details?" Qin Yun pondered over the Dharmic formulation as he constantly constructed it in his mind, making minute adjustments.


    At this present stage, the general framework was set up. All he needed to do was give it some minor fixes.


    ...


    As he flew, he deliberated over it.


    "Oh? I''ve reached the Ancient Skydragon Palace!" Qin Yun looked down when he sensed something. With a whoosh, he swooped downwards.


    Hua!


    He flew to the bottom of the West Sea.


    He took the same familiar path into the Ancient Skydragon Palace. The same old Guardian General followed him with two golden hammers hanging by his waist. He joked, "Human, you are here again. How many times have you come? Don''t you fail another time."


    Although he said so, he was actually very astonished. After all, Qin Yun was able to achieve such potent strength despite being mortal.


    "This is the final time," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Oh? You are really confident." Guardian General was surprised but also impressed.


    Soon, they arrived at the entrance to a corridor. It was the one that led straight into the middle of the Ancient Skydragon Palace. Qin Yun waved his hand, sending a wisp of misty rain flying out of his fingertip. It seemed to be burning like a meteor and, with a flash, it penetrated the various array formation seals at the entrance. The twenty-six layers shattered in a blink of an eye, much faster than Qin Yun''s previous attempt when he used the Grotto-heaven Sword Calabash.


    "That fast?" Guardian General could not help but twitch when he saw how fast Qin Yun was destroying the seals. "Is he really going to obtain everything in the Ancient Skydragon Palace?"


    "Boom!"


    The meteor-like flying sword tore through the corridor and struck the surface of the distant palatial hall in the middle.


    Layers of golden barriers rose across its surface. The Dreamlike Sword''s seventh move, Stars Like Rain, only trembled for an instant before shattering one layer. It followed by shattering the second and third layer, its might decreasing drastically each time.


    "I actually need to cast another strike," thought Qin Yun.


    The flying sword rose again as it cast Stars Like Rain once more.


    After studying the various Dharma spells of the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma, his Stars Like Rain was about fifty to sixty percent stronger than it was half a year ago.


    This strike tore through the remaining three layers before the golden barriers could recover.


    At the instant they were broken through, the flying sword spun around and dug into the core of the array formation. The central hall''s array formation completely crumbled.


    Following that, Qin Yun flew over.


    "He succeeded?" the Guardian General looked at the scene in a daze as he watched Qin Yun casually fly to the central hall. "Has the day His Majesty been waiting for finally come?"


    ******


    Qin Yun had a faint misty shroud lingering around him. It was his most compatible Dharma spell from the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma¡ªAll Heavens Cloud Shroud.


    This was also a powerful Dharma spell ranked in the top three of the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma. According to the Dharma spell''s description, cultivating it to its most perfect state according to legend would match some of the more potent divine powers, allowing one to withstand the strikes of Golden Immortals or Buddhas! However... ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals could only cultivate the Dharma spell to a phenomenal success stage. The chances of reaching perfection were slim.


    As Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers were relatively weak, his casting of the All Heavens Cloud Shroud was only equivalent to the might of the Green Leaf Flying Sword casting the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    As he maintained the All Heavens Cloud Shroud, Qin Yun walked into the central hall.


    The hall had a coiled Skydragon corpse lying inside. There was a huge pool of blood on the ground.


    "Whoosh."


    From the Skydragon corpse, a dragon''s phantom appeared.


    It coiled in midair, its eyes penetrating the doors to the hall as though it was looking at a particular spot across infinite space. "I am the owner of this dragon palace, Ba Yun. I was born in the Dragon Mountain world. It is a Small World with a massive number of dragons living in it. It is my true homeworld. However, the Dragon Mountain world suffered an attack from a ninth firmament Skyfiend existence, Old Fiend Fire Puppet. Ninety-nine percent of the dragons in Dragon Mountain world perished, with very few surviving."


    "My father and mother fought Old Fiend Fire Puppet with all their might. They exhorted my uncle to flee with me."


    "I was still very young back then and was one of the few dragons that managed to escape."


    "Although I have experienced a lot, even to the point of cultivating to become a Skydragon, bringing many dragons with me to call this Small World home, I still think of the Dragon Mountain world fondly. The Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake and Mt. Sword Severing in the Dragon Mountain world remain unforgettable to me. It is the place where I spent the most beautiful and freest days of my life." The Skydragon phantom appeared to be looking at a spot across the distant cosmos.


    "I''m about to die."


    "I have no other request. I only wish that after my death, you burn my corpse to ashes and scatter them in the Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake in Dragon Mountain world," said the dragon phantom. "That place is currently occupied by Old Fiend Fire Puppet. To send me back, you''ll probably need to kill him..."


    "I know it''s very difficult. It was only before my death that I realized my greatest wish is to return to my homeworld."


    "It''s not a demand but a request."


    "If you are able to do so... please help me. Let me return to the place where my father and mother died." The dragon phantom sighed lightly.


    Qin Yun looked up.


    He looked at the massive dragon phantom and its wistful eyes.


    He knew that this was a projection left behind before the Skydragon''s death. It would only show this message to the first person that entered the hall.


    The eyes of the dragon phantom were filled with a longing thirst.


    "If you enter with a mortal''s body, perhaps you have a chance of fighting Old Fiend Fire Puppet," said the dragon phantom in a self-deprecating manner. "Of course, it''s also possible that my array formation has gradually lost its potency over long periods of time, making the person that is hearing this not the absolute genius cultivator I wish for."


    "Regardless, I only have this wish."


    "Dragon Mountain world..."


    "Father... Mother..."


    The dragon phantom raised his head as his eyes glazed over.


    His final memories were of seeing his father and mother the way they looked when they battled Old Fiend Fire Puppet.


    Qin Yun silently watched the dragon phantom dissipate.


    "I never expected this ancient Skydragon to have such a history. Before his parents'' death, they still wished for their child to live on." Qin Yun felt the longing for his daughter. "I''m the same. I wish for my daughter to lead a better life, even if I have to offer up my own."


    Upon thinking of his daughter''s suffering, Qin Yun turned more anxious.


    His daughter had been sent to the fiendcelestial world not long after she was born. She later landed in the hands of Yellow-robed Supremacy who had a grudge towards dragons. Thinking of all the terrible fates that his daughter might encounter, Qin Yun felt like his heart was being ripped to shreds.


    "If it''s possible, I will send you back to the Dragon Mountain world. I''ll scatter your ashes in the Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake," said Qin Yun as he looked at the ancient Skydragon''s corpse. "Of course, that will be a thing I do very far in the future. I will need to rescue my daughter first."


    Moments later.


    "Boom!!!"


    All the array formations in the Ancient Skydragon Palace crumbled. Without the array formation to sustain them, many buildings collapsed. The remnant buildings could be fully seen in the West Sea so that even ordinary members of the Water race could see the ruin.


    Qin Yun left with all the treasures of the Ancient Skydragon Palace.

 431 Condensing an Essence Soul

    Chapter 431: Condensing an Essence Soul


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The streets of Grand Dominance City were adorned with lanterns on the eve of the lunar new year.


    Children ran down the street, leaving footprints in the heavy snow as they watched the fireworks and the various acrobatic performances.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were sitting in a tea shop, listening to a storyteller narrate fantasy stories as they watched the thickly-clothed children run.


    Qin Yun recalled his memories of raising Meng Huan when he saw these children. "Huan''er has long grown up and even entered the Jade Tripod Sect, a top cultivation sect. But my daughter? She was taken away just after she was born. What sort of life does she lead with Yellow-robed Supremacy?"


    Yi Xiao was also looking at the children outside the window in a daze.


    Qin Yun stretched out his hand and grabbed his wife''s hand.


    Yi Xiao turned to look at him.


    "Xiaoxiao, I will save our daughter no matter what," said Qin Yun.


    "Brother Yun, how confident are you of condensing an Essence Soul?"


    "Thirty to forty percent," said Qin Yun. "After all, in the entire Three Realms, only the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor has ever succeeded. Although the other mighty figures had only inferred from nothing while I cultivate it myself and have actual experience¡­ my level of insight and experience is just too low compared to those mighty figures. Even so, I believe I should take my chances with thirty to forty percent."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    She was very worried, but her husband was resolved to attempt to condense an Essence Soul in a few more days. She did not wish to say anything demoralizing.


    "Whoosh."


    A blurry figure gradually turned corporeal to their side. A black-haired man walked over, and although it was bustling inside the tea shop with it being new year''s eve, the crowd did not see him.


    "Senior Skydragon." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood up to greet him.


    "Qin Yun, Yi Xiao." East Sea Skydragon walked over and sat down with a smile. Only then did the couple sit down.


    "I just heard that the Ancient Skydragon Palace in the West Sea has appeared in its entirety, with many of its array formations cracked." East Sea Skydragon looked at Qin Yun. "I instantly thought of you, Qin Yun. Only you of all people in the Great Chang world are capable of such a thing."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Yes, I went to the Ancient Skydragon Palace not long ago."


    "I wish you would hand the Ancient Skydragon Palace''s corpse over to me. After all, he is a member of my Dragon race. There are even a small number of dragons from the Four Seas that are his descendants. Back when the Ancient Skydragon Palace was overrun, there were other dragons outside who luckily escaped the calamity. I have to bring his corpse back and bury it," said East Sea Skydragon. "Of course, all the treasures in the Dragon Palace will be yours to keep."


    "The ancient Skydragon, Ba Yun, had a last wish." Qin Yun said with a wave of his hand.


    Hua!


    Qin Yun presented the scene before the death of ancient Skydragon, Ba Yun in midair.


    East Sea Skydragon watched silently, and when it ended looked anguished. "I''ve heard of the matter regarding Dragon Mountain world. Unfortunately, we have not been able to take it back. It''s still occupied by Old Fiend Fire Puppet. Although we dragons are a powerful species in the Three Realms, we are still far inferior to the Daoists and Buddhists, as well as the Heavenly Courts. It''s the same with even the Fiendcelestials."


    The Heavenly Courts ruled over the Three Realms.


    The Daoists, Buddhists, and Fiendcelestials all had numerous experts.


    The dragons were relatively weaker! They were similar to the Magi. Although they were a faction that filled the Three Realms, there was only the Ten Magi that had reached the Ancestral Magus realm. There were fewer than ten dragons that reached the Ancestral Dragon realm. How could they compare with the Daoists, Buddhists or Fiends?


    "He had a last wish, so I have cremated his corpse, leaving only ashes behind," explained Qin Yun.


    "Since Ba Yun has a last wish, we naturally should abide by it." East Sea Skydragon stood up. "Alright, it''s the human''s new year''s eve. I won''t disturb the two of you any longer."


    ¡­


    Days passed one by one.


    Qin Yun spent them with his wife, either strolling leisurely or going out to listen to tunes or even meet Chen Shuang.


    Qin Yun appeared to be relaxed, but his mind was constantly pondering over many things.


    The longer he pondered, Qin Yun found that the number of modifications he could make to the Essence Soul condensing Dharmic formulation was decreasing.


    The nineteenth day of the new year seemed like a very ordinary day in Grand Dominance City. Qin Yun did not make it known to the public, but on that day he began to condense a sword immortal Essence Soul!


    Outside the chamber, Qin Yun looked at his wife, Yi Xiao.


    "If I succeed in condensing an Essence Soul, I''ll have a chance of being recruited into Green Touring Palace as Senior Zhang suggested," said Qin Yun. "I''ll then be Yellow-robed Supremacy''s junior brother. Although his character has changed drastically, he is not overly ruthless to his fellow disciples."


    "Yea." Yi Xiao nodded.


    "If I fail¡­" added Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao was taken aback.


    She never spoke of the possibility, afraid that it would be a tragic taboo.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun looked at his wife. "If I fail, I will still save our daughter. If I were to really die in the Skywolf world, I''d probably have to reincarnate. Should that happen, you will have to wait for me for another ten plus years. I''ll be received and, after awakening my memories, I''ll return to the Great Chang world for you once I recover my cultivation level."


    Yi Xiao was a little worried so she could not help but say, "Brother Yun, if there''s really no way to save our daughter, there''s no need for you to fight a hopeless battle. I have already lost my daughter. I do not wish to lose you as well. All kinds of unexpected complications might happen during the receiving of a reincarnator too."


    There were cases of delayed receiving in history.


    When they happened, they caused the feelings and memories of the brand new incarnation to take over, causing a drastic change in character. It would make the previous incarnation nothing but a fleeting memory.


    "She''s our daughter. As her parents, we owe it to her." Qin Yun looked at his wife. "Letting her suffer makes me feel unrest. Alright, whether I succeed in condensing the Essence Soul or not, I am prepared for everything that follows."


    He was determined.


    He would risk it all!


    Qin Yun turned to head into the chamber as the door closed behind him.


    Yi Xiao watched the door close silently.


    "Am I being selfish?" she muttered.


    On one hand, she felt extremely guilty about her daughter.


    On the other hand, Qin Yun was her husband, someone more important than her own life.


    "I hope Brother Yun succeeds in condensing an Essence Soul. That would really be a meteoric rise for him." Yi Xiao reeled with anticipation.


    ¡­


    A faint fragrance filled Qin Yun''s cultivation chamber as he sat cross-legged. He held a black bottle and pulled out the stopper.


    With a gulp, a beam of light flew out of the bottle and into his mouth.


    Qin Yun felt his entire body turn cold as his soul felt an icy chill. His soul felt an unprecedented emptiness.


    "I believe I have created a sufficiently complete and intricate Dharmic formulation. It should be capable of condensing an Essence Soul sword. I will definitely succeed." Qin Yun calmed his mind.


    Although he had three conjectures regarding a sword immortal Essence Soul, he still lacked complete confidence. Only when he learned that the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage used a sword for an Essence Soul did Qin Yun see a glimmer of light in the darkness.


    It was the stroke of god!


    Truly a stroke of god!


    The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor was indeed powerful. Ordinary Essence Souls of the Daoist lineage were in the shape of humans but the Essence Souls of sword immortals were swords.


    And it was that particular shape that allowed one the foundation to condense the sharp and oppressive Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers into an Essence Soul!


    Qin Yun finally inferred a Dharmic formulation that could condense an Essence Soul through the aid of the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma, the three sword immortal manuals, as well as his own experiences.


    "It''s time. Success or failure will all depend on this."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes.


    He looked inwardly at the purplish-gold Golden Core inside his dantian.


    The round Golden Core that suffused purple light was truly in its perfect state.


    "Condense!"


    His soul started to descend as he began the process of condensing an Essence Soul.


    "Boom!!!"


    The first step was about being violent.


    Only by being violent could he fuse his soul deep into the sharp and oppressive Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers.


    "Rumble!" The purplish-gold Golden Core hummed but his soul had seeped in slightly through its sheer potent force.


    "Next, it should be silent. The seeping should happen gradually and from the silence, an Essence Soul will be born." Qin Yun felt his soul resonating but it was actually rather comfortable.


    Second after second passed by.


    Qin Yun felt nervous but was also filled with anticipation.


    No problems had cropped up after such a long period of time, and this gave him hope!


    Moments later.


    "Crack."


    The round purplish-gold Golden Core suddenly produced its first crack inside his dantian. Like a chain reaction, the second and third cracks began permeating his Golden Core.


    "Ahhh." Qin Yun felt his eyes go black as he suddenly felt a sharp, excruciating pain as though his soul was being ripped apart.


    The Golden Core was now shattering.


    While it shattered, massive amounts of Sword Qi and Dharmic powers seeped out of the cracks. They began coursing through his body without control. With what was left of his consciousness, Qin Yun tried his best to bind the Dharmic powers in his body. If he allowed them to surge through his body heedlessly, it would cause his body to explode.


    "Phuah!"


    Even so, the outpouring of Dharmic powers caused his lifeblood to surge. Instantly, he bled from all of his seven orifices.


    Qin Yun spat out a mouthful of blood.


    "No, no¡ª" Qin Yun gritted his teeth immediately. He took out a green jade bottle and pulled out its stopper. Without any hesitation, he swallowed the six Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills contained within all in one go.


    His hands held onto the ground as veins all across his body protruded out.


    The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills quickly restored his soul and Golden Core.


    "I failed. I failed. Where did I go wrong? Where?" Qin Yun''s soul remained in great pain. The Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills'' effects had allowed him to maintain his basic level of thought. He knew he had failed in condensing an Essence Soul. It also meant that his Dharmic formulation was wrong.


    But which part was wrong?


    Qin Yun did not know.


    "Where did it go wrong?"


    "Hahaha¡­"


    "I can''t even tell where I went wrong! To think, I believed I could condense a sword immortal Essence Soul? What a joke." Qin Yun muttered. "Xiaoxiao, I let you down after all."


    To be the second person in the Three Realm''s history to create a sword immortal Essence Soul realm Dharmic formulation by himself?


    How could it be that simple?


    That path was destined to be fraught with difficulties!


    Either he became a disciple of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, where the sword immortal Dharmic formulation was long created, allowing a smooth path ahead, or he had to forge a path for himself. He could not get his bearings and he had to do everything by trial and error. It was thousands of times more difficult.

 432 Final Departure Final Chapter of Volume

    The chaotic Dharmic powers gradually came under control as the wounds left by the surging forces in Qin Yun''s meridians and organs gradually healed through the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills'' effects. However, his purplish-gold Golden Core and soul recovered at a much slower pace.


    "Huff. Puff." Qin Yun''s breathing slowly returned to normal. He controlled his Dao domain to clean up all the blood on his body, making him look more normal. However, his face remained extremely pale.


    Qin Yun gave a self-deprecating smile.


    This attempt at condensing an Essence Soul had set him back greatly.


    He had considered possible failure! But he figured that even if he failed, he should have been able to deduce the reasons for the failure and gain experience from it, so as to modify the Dharmic formulation he created.


    "I can''t find the reason."


    "I don''t even know where in the Dharmic formulation I went wrong."


    Qin Yun stood up. The pain in his soul made him stumble a little as he slowly walked to the chamber''s entrance. After resting for a moment, the Nine Revolutions Spirit Pills'' effects finally began to restore his soul. However, he clearly needed some time to fully recover.


    The injuries to his soul were much harder to treat than the injuries to the Golden Core.


    "Creak."


    The door opened.


    Outside, Yi Xiao was waiting alone in the yard. She was anxious, worried about Qin Yun who was attempting the impossible task of condensing an Essence Soul inside the chamber. Yet, she could not help him in any way.


    Upon hearing the chamber''s door open, Yi Xiao turned her head immediately. She instantly saw the pale Qin Yun and sensed his weak aura.


    Her heart jolted.


    "I failed." Qin Yun forced a smile at Yi Xiao. "It''s too difficult. It''s no wonder no mighty figure has managed to infer the Dharmic formulation except the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor."


    Yi Xiao hurriedly went forward and helped Qin Yun to a stone table in the yard. "Brother Yun, sit down first."


    Qin Yun sat down.


    "All over the vast Three Realms, there are numerous mighty figures. Not one of them succeeded," consoled Yi Xiao. "There are many geniuses that have cultivated ordinary mortal sword immortal Dharmic formulations. Just the Great Chang world alone has produced several powerful mortal sword immortals, much less the Three Realms as a whole. Yet, no one has created an Essence Soul sword immortal Dharmic formulation. Brother Yun, you have attained so much despite not having cultivated for very long. Many Skyimmortals and Skydragons envy you."


    Qin Yun looked at his wife. He knew that she was consoling him.


    "Xiaoxiao, I''m very confident," said Qin Yun. "We don''t even need to talk about the Great Chang world. Even in the Effulgent Great World, there is no mortal sword immortal as powerful as me."


    Famous geniuses in the Effulgent Great World would typically not choose the sword immortal lineage for it had no future. But even if they chose other schools of thought, such as Arhat Tenside and Ape Fiend Junior, their realms were actually not much different from Qin Yun''s. They had even cultivated for a longer period of time.


    Even amid the rivers of time, Qin Yun could match the cream of the crop in the Effulgent Great World. This was the very reason why the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, the Jade Tripod Sect''s sect master, and the Golden Light Sect''s sect master came to offer him invitations.


    "However, I need to rely on my own strength to rescue my daughter from Yellow-robed Supremacy. I have no idea how long I have to wait," said Qin Yun. "That is a great demon that had existed since the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts. He was once the leader of the western mansion of the Twenty-eight Lunar Mansions. He was a celebrated combat general of the Heavenly Courts who fought many Golden Immortals and Buddhas. He is an existence who defines what it means to be a mighty figure."


    "Are you really going to the Skywolf world?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "I can afford to wait when it comes to cultivation, but our daughter can''t," said Qin Yun.


    "But¡­" said Yi Xiao worriedly. "Isn''t there any other method? I''m afraid that I''ll lose not only my daughter, but also you."


    "Don''t worry, I will not do something like throw myself to my death," said Qin Yun calmly. "However, I have to go to the Skywolf world. Once there, I can investigate the situation regarding our daughter. Only then can I think of a suitable way to rescue her."


    "But Yellow-robed Supremacy is known to be capricious." Yi Xiao was worried. "Many dragons have perished tragically at his hand."


    "There are certain things that need to be done," said Qin Yun. "If not, I''ll never be at peace."


    Yi Xiao''s eyes reddened as she nodded gently. "I understand. Brother Yun, I will not stop you. However, you need to protect yourself well."


    "Yes," said Qin Yun with a smile. "At the worst, I''ll need to reincarnate. There are many sect masters in the Effulgent Great World that wish to receive me. The awakening of my memories should happen very quickly. And who knows? I might be able to successfully rescue our daughter and bring her back from the Skywolf world."


    Yi Xiao nodded. "When do you plan on setting off?"


    "It''s best not to delay. However, having failed to condense my Essence Soul, my injuries are rather heavy. My Golden Core''s recovery is easier but the recovery of my soul is more difficult. Three months. That will be when I set off," said Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun did not publicize the matter of his attempt to condense an Essence Soul.


    However, he contacted Ancestral Master Zhang before he departed. Ancestral Master Zhang rushed over when he learned of the matter.


    Under the shade of the willows, Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang strolled down a tiny path by the side of the mirror lake.


    "Qin Yun, you attempted to condense an Essence Soul?" inquired Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes, I failed." Qin Yun nodded.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sighed inwardly.


    The task was still too difficult! Even someone as brilliant as Qin Yun had failed.


    Although he had become the personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor and had great aspirations, he believed that Qin Yun''s potential and talent were in no way inferior to his. If he received guidance from the Dao Ancestor, his accomplishments might be higher than his.


    "Do you know the reason for the failure? Are you confident about succeeding the next time?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "The problem is¡­ I can''t find the reason for my failure," said Qin Yun in a self-pitying manner.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and did not continue.


    "Senior Zhang, there''s no way to know what lies in wait for me in the Skywolf world," said Qin Yun. "Although I''ll be very careful not to fling myself into harm, there''s nothing I can do if Yellow-robed Supremacy really turns crazy. Therefore, if I do die in the Skywolf world, I must ask you to take care of my Qin family."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "Yes. If you were to reincarnate, would you still be a sword immortal in your next life?"


    "We will discuss that in the future," said Qin Yun.


    He did not wish to give an immediate answer, because deep down¡­


    He really did not wish to abandon the path of a sword immortal. He practiced in the way of the sword from a young age. Including the dream of a hundred years, he had been forging ahead on the way of the sword for more than a hundred years. He had never even entertained the thought of taking other cultivation paths.


    "You know, you do not need to be a sword immortal to cultivate in the Sword Dao," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "My master is well known in the Three Realms for his extremely terrifying sword array formation. Although it uses four Connate Numinous treasure divine swords to construct the array formation, it also contains Sword Dao in it."


    "Talisman arts, array formations, Dharma treasures¡­ all sorts of Dharmic formulations can use Sword Dao," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "The Dao is intrinsic while the Dharma is extrinsic."


    "The Dao is intrinsic while the Dharma is extrinsic," muttered Qin Yun as he nodded, but he did not speak on the matter further.


    "This is the Effulgent dominion''s map. It''s rather crude." Ancestral Master Zhang took out a scroll and, with a wave of his hand, slowly unfurled it in midair. There were many points of light floating on the scroll''s surface, forming a massive stellar chart.


    Qin Yun looked at it carefully.


    By touching any point of light with his Dharmic powers, the point of light would immediately reveal the relevant information.


    There was a planet that was occupied by a peacock demon. The entire planet looked like a huge fireball.


    Qin Yun looked at the floating information and could not help but comment, "This peacock demon is a Chaos Godfiend descendent? What are Chaos Godfiends?"


    "Connate Godfiends are born during the birth of a Small World," explained Ancestral Master Zhang. "And in the entire Three Realms, Godfiends are born before the Chaos develops into anything. For example, the legendary Pangu had split apart the Chaos, creating countless worlds. There''s also N¨¹wa and the Three Pure Ones of Daoism. Many of the great mighty figures were born out of the Chaos. They are considered Chaos Godfiends."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    Ancestral Master Zhang pointed at the massive stellar chart. "The Effulgent dominion has too many Small Worlds. It''s impossible to have all of them recorded. We can only record down the more important planets. When you are traveling, be careful. Don''t enter extremely dangerous worlds. There are many places in the Effulgent dominion that match the Skywolf world."


    Qin Yun nodded. As a Dao Ancestor disciple, Ancestral Master Zhang clearly knew a lot.


    "By the way, when do you plan on leaving?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Tomorrow," said Qin Yun. "Once I bid Xiaoxiao farewell, I''ll set off. There is no need to make this known to the outside world."


    "Alright." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. He would not publicize it if Qin Yun did not want it publicized.


    "Anyway, be careful. Don''t reincarnate if there''s no need to," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Accidents can always happen during reincarnation."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Following that, Ancestral Master Zhang left.


    "Creating an Essence Soul realm sword immortal Dharmic formulation is still too difficult." Ancestral Master Zhang flew into the sky before looking back at Qin Manor. "Going to the Skywolf world to save his daughter is really a test of his luck. I hope Qin Yun''s luck is good."


    ¡­


    The next day.


    Qin Yun bade his wife farewell.


    "If you miss me, trigger the memento with your Dharmic powers. I''ll sense it¡ª" Qin Yun paused mid-sentence.


    Yi Xiao had reached out to hug him, her head resting on his chest. "Don''t speak."


    The couple leaned against each other.


    They separated only after a long time.


    Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun, heart filled with mixed emotions. Husband, daughter¡­


    "You must return." Yi Xiao''s eyes were filled with tears as she looked at Qin Yun.


    "I will." Qin Yun nodded.


    Following that, he waved his hand.


    Rip!


    A rift tore in the void, opening up a void passageway. Qin Yun smiled at his wife before stepping into the void passageway.


    Yi Xiao could not help but take a step forward. She even had the urge to rush into the void passageway!


    "Brother Yun¡­" Yi Xiao felt unease. She did not know when she would meet her husband again.


    "You must return."


    "I''ll be waiting for you, always." Yi Xiao looked at the void passageway as it slowly closed.


    (End of Volume)

 433 Qin Yun and Daughter

    Chapter 433: Qin Yun and Daughter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The resplendent cosmos were filled with countless stars.


    Most planets were barren, unsuitable to sustain any life.


    Rip!


    On a planet covered in desert, a void rift tore open in midair. With a whoosh, a man enveloped in Sword Qi walked out of it, floating above the sand.


    He stood in midair and, although the whistling winds and sand blew at him, they naturally parted before hitting him.


    Qin Yun looked up into the cosmos and saw a massive gray planet that covered nearly half the sky. In the middle of the gray planet was an extremely dominating large tree. As the tree was more than fifty kilometers tall, Qin Yun could see it at a glance with his eyesight. He could also sense powerful energy fluctuations coming from the massive tree.


    "That''s Planet Tree Demon? It looks like my bearings are right. According to the information I received, this tree demon is a terrifying existence at the sixth firmament Skydemon realm. Its strength is comparable to Senior Zhang''s. I am not its match." Next, Qin Yun carefully observed the other planets.


    "Time to continue to the next planet."


    With another wave of his hand, he tore open a void rift and stepped into it.


    Back when Qin Yun returned from the Ancient Augury World, he could tear open a void passageway that led directly to his homeworld because of the existence of a void mark.


    However, Qin Yun did not have a void mark in the Skywolf world. If he opened up a long-distance passageway purely based on what he sensed, it might end up being too diverged. After all, even the a tiniest difference could lead to a magnified difference of thousands of kilometers. The Great Chang world was very far from the Skywolf world. Without an accurate void mark, even a ninth firmament Skyimmortal would end up being diverted too far off.


    Therefore, the best way was to follow the Effulgent World''s dominion star chart given by Daoist Divine Firmament. By tunneling from one world to another world over short distances, it would prevent one from getting lost!


    But there were many dangers in the Other Realm cosmos.


    The vast Three Realms¡­ went from the birth of the Chaos Godfiends, the opening up of the world by Pangu, the Ancient Heavenly Courts¡­ to the present day. Many ancient and powerful existences had been born in those eons.


    The Effulgent Great World was a Great World! Mighty figures often appeared there. The Daoists, Buddhists, and Fiends, and even the Heavenly Courts paid close attention to it. Therefore, many ancient existences would rather reside in the vast sea of stars.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun traveled carefully and quickly, tunneling to many different worlds over short distances. After half a month of this, Qin Yun finally arrived at his destination¡ªthe Skywolf world.


    "Rip!"


    The sky was cloudy and the first few raindrops were falling.


    Outside a village, a void rift appeared as a man in linen clothes walked out of it. He landed on the somewhat muddy ground.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked up and stretched out his left hand, allowing the raindrops to land on his palm.


    "What rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies."


    Qin Yun carefully sensed the area and was astonished by what he found. "It''s more than ten times richer than my homeworld. It''s not just that, I can sense the faint repression of this world''s Heavenly Dao. It seems much stronger than the Great Chang world''s Heavenly Dao?"


    Worlds could be graded by strength despite them being Small Worlds.


    It had little to do with the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. For instance, back when the Great Chang world first produced Connate Godfiends, its Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were rich. Later on, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thinned but the population increased! The Heavenly Dao remained powerful.


    "Boom¡ª"


    There was a fluctuation coming from far away.


    Qin Yun opened the Eye of Lightning at his glabella, looking in the direction of the commotion. He was slightly stunned. "This Skywolf world is truly filled with experts. I just arrived and I have already discovered four Essence Soul experts. One is a Daoist and the other three are great demons. All of them are at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. As expected of a Small World ruled by Yellow-robed Supremacy."


    About fifty kilometers away, there was a flying boat. Standing on it was a long-bearded Daoist. There were five children onboard but all of them had pale expressions, clearly horrified.


    The Daoist was looking angrily ahead, for three demons riding on black winds were coming at him. All of them had extremely oppressive great demonic auras.


    "It''s the three of you?" The Daoist secretly lamented.


    "Hahaha, Daoist Zhangqi, we have finally caught you."


    "This time, let''s see how you escape."


    The three demons wore black armor and sinister smiles.


    The Daoist frowned and bellowed, "Black Worm Trio, my Azure Inspiration Gate is recruiting disciples. Are you planning to spoil the plans of the Azure Inspiration Gate?"


    "So what?"


    "Do you think we are afraid of the Azure Inspiration Gate? We can seek refuge with King Crimson Tiger after killing you! Does your Azure Inspiration Gate dare provoke King Crimson Tiger?"


    "Daoist Zhangqi, you just had to be a busybody, causing the three of us to be short so many children. Today, you shall pay for it."


    The three demons had overwhelming killing intent.


    The Daoist had a contorted expression as he bellowed, "You acted without any qualms, wreaking havoc on a whim. My Azure Inspiration Gate protects the humans of that region, we naturally had to take action."


    "Isn''t it normal for demons to eat humans?" The trio felt contempt.


    "Fine, all of you are great demons with terrific accomplishments in cultivation. I believe you do not wish to take your anger out on these mortal children. The karmic effect of killing mortals is not trivial," said the Daoist. "Once I get these children to safety, I shall give you a fight to the death."


    "You wish to ensure their wellbeing?"


    "Haha, dream on."


    "You shall die with these babies."


    The three demons suddenly sprung into action.


    They were already prepared.


    "This Daoist Zhangqi is extremely strong. Although he is not our match when we combine forces, he can still escape. He abhors evil and loves to protect humans. By attacking him while these five mortal children are here, he will have to divert his attention to protect them¡­ The chances of him escaping decrease drastically."


    "We have an eighty percent chance of killing him if he diverts his attention to protect the children."


    "It''s only five ordinary mortals. The three of us can manage that karma."


    The three demons instantly attacked.


    "Immortal, save me!"


    "Mother! Wah~"


    The children were of a young age, and so were reasonably terrified.


    "Black Worm Trio, you are truly shameless." The Daoist roared angrily as he waved his hand, shooting more than a hundred golden beams of light at the three demons.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The golden light struck the demons, producing sparks.


    The three demons were extremely fierce as they charged forward, surrounding the Daoist. Their bodies were extremely powerful. One of them threw out three black nails that coruscated with a cold luster as they targeted the Daoist.


    "What shamelessness, to use mortal children as a threat." A cold voice resounded.


    "Swoosh!"


    A sword beam flashed.


    The sword beam streaked across the demon''s body in a ghostly trajectory before it vanished into thin air. When it appeared again, it was beside another demon as it flashed across its body.


    With one more, it had flashed three times! The three demon''s bodies were split apart in a flash.


    The three third Firmament Essence Soul realm demons were only aware of the appearance of a sword flash but they had no way to stop it in time.


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    "Spare me!"


    "No!"


    Their pleas came to a stop the moment they blurted them out.


    Following that, their auras were decimated as they died on the spot, their bodies plummeting down through the sky.


    The instant the flying sword sliced through their bodies, their Essence Souls were destroyed, causing them to die without a fight.


    "This¡­" Standing on the flying boat, the Daoist was still shooting his golden lights so could only stare in a daze at what had happened. He immediately said aloud, "I wonder which esteemed person it is. Expert, please show yourself."


    Swoosh.


    A man in linen clothes flew close to him in a beam of light. With a beckon, he put away the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Oh?" Daoist Zhangqi looked at Qin Yun in astonishment before he reacted with an immediate bow. "Greetings Sword Immortal, I''m Azure Inspiration Gate''s Zhangqi! Fellow Daoist, as a mortal sword immortal, you actually have strength that matches a Skyimmortal or Skydemon. I''m truly impressed."


    "Greetings Daoist Zhangqi, I''m Qin Yun." Qin Yun bowed slightly. "I have been cultivating arduously for a long time and only came out to travel when my cultivation bore fruit."


    "Oh?" Daoist Zhangqi was enlightened. "It''s no wonder I have never heard of such a powerful mortal sword immortal. So it''s because you have been focusing on cultivation. But your cultivation pushed you to the Skyimmortal realm. You are truly a rare genius. I believe you will gain the right to an audience with Yellow-robed Supremacy in the future."


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Gain an audience with Yellow-robed Supremacy?


    ******


    Just after Qin Yun arrived in the Skywolf world, on the other side of it was a desolate mountain.


    A young girl sat cross-legged on the mountaintop, allowing the cold winds to blow at her. She looked into the distant sea of clouds in a daze.


    "Senior Brothers and Senior Sisters all have their parents visiting them." The girl''s eyes turned slightly red. "But what about my father and mother?"


    "Are my parents alive or dead?"


    The girl was filled with grief.


    The memories of her childhood were too vague. She did not have any memories of her parents.


    "Oh?"


    The girl looked up upon sensing something. Her expression changed as she darted into a forest.


    And far away in the sky, there were two women dressed in palatial gowns flying. However, they had long yellow-furred tails and their faces had a little fur.


    "That lowly slave really escaped. She has already eluded us for more than a year." One of the women overlooked the area, her eyes flashing with a dim yellow light.


    "The young lord has berated us several times. If we capture her, we will definitely teach her a lesson." The other woman''s eyes were filled with bloodlust.


    As they flew, they carefully searched the area.

 434 Daoist Divine Firmaments Decision

    Chapter 434: Daoist Divine Firmament''s Decision


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A flying boat flew through the clouds. Qin Yun and Daoist Zhangqi sat opposite each other on that boat''s bow, drinking wine and chatting.


    "Since you are unaware of even this," said Daoist Zhangqi with a smile. "I''ll give you a brief explanation. Ever since Yellow-robed Supremacy descended into this world, the Skywolf world became famous. The immortals and demons of the surrounding hundred plus Small Worlds started coming here. After all, Yellow-robed Supremacy is an existence that matches any mighty figure from history. Just the smallest benefit from him would be much better than anything they could receive in their home worlds. The manuals he casually tosses out contain things they could only dream of."


    "So it was that the Skywolf world gathered the immortals and demons of more than a hundred Small Worlds. With Yellow-robed Supremacy nurturing them, there are now thousands of Skyimmortals and Skydemons in the Skywolf world," said Daoist Zhangqi wistfully. "This is something comparable to even a top sect of the Effulgent Great World! In terms of heritage and strength, the Skywolf world is even stronger than the Effulgent Great World''s top sects! What large sect has a mighty figure presiding over it and nurturing its members personally?"


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The Skywolf world was indeed a sacred land for cultivation.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy held an extremely high standing since the Ancient Heavenly Courts era after all. HIs prestige was high among the ancient demons, Daoists, and the Heavenly Courts. Over time, the number of treasures he had amassed was in no way inferior to any Golden Immortal or Buddha''s.


    "The Skywolf world has eight continents," said Daoist Zhangqi. "The core Skywolf continent is where Yellow-robed Supremacy cultivates. Rumor has it that when he rebelled against the Heavenly Courts, he had several loyal subordinates that joined him. The present Skywolf continent is almost impregnable! Forget tearing the void, it''s even impossible to enter through Major Void Transference."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    It was impossible to enter through Major Void Transference?


    As expected of Yellow-robed Supremacy!


    "I heard that the Heavenly Courts have sent troops to apprehend him several times but they always return in failure." Daoist Zhangqi spoke with pride. "However, Yellow-robed Supremacy treats us weak cultivators with compassion. He disseminates heritage widely throughout the Skywolf world, causing the immortals in the Skywolf world to constantly grow stronger."


    "He disseminates heritage widely?" Qin Yun raised his brows.


    "For example, my Azure Inspiration Gate only has one Skyimmortal. It''s considered one of the smaller sects in the Skywolf world," said Daoist Zhangqi with a smile. "But we have manuals that can take us straight to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. My sect master rejoices in this. Just think, in an ordinary Small World, how would it be possible to obtain such a valuable manual? However, such manuals¡­ are very common in the Skywolf world."


    "Perhaps Yellow-robed Supremacy has acquired these ordinary manuals over the eons and he thinks nothing of spreading them around the Skywolf world." Daoist Zhangqi said wistfully. "But the truly top manuals, the ones that reach straight to the Golden Immortal or Sagedemon realms of mighty figures, or the manuals containing great divine powers can only be obtained after meeting Yellow-robed Supremacy."


    "How can one receive manuals that reach straight to the Golden Immortal or Sagedemon realms?" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    Manuals of that levels were the cornerstone manuals of top sects in the Effulgent Great World.


    Yet, Yellow-robed Supremacy was still willing to hand them out!


    "Yellow-robed Supremacy proclaimed it a long time ago," said Daoist Zhangqi with a smile. "Under him are two positions¡ªCombat Generals and Guardians. One can directly become a Combat General under him once one reaches the fourth firmament Skyimmortal or Skydemon realm. Of course, they will be fostered for greater things."


    Qin Yun could not help but shake his head. "Fourth firmament Skyimmortal?"


    Even Daoist Divine Firmament was still stuck at the third Firmament Skyimmortal realm! Of course, the real reason for that was his desire to create the Dharma Lightning. Daoist Divine Firmament''s strength had long matched that of a sixth firmament Skyimmortal.


    But regardless, it was still extremely difficult to reach the fourth firmament Skyimmortal realm. It was rare for even one to be produced from a huge group of Skyimmortals.


    "Combat Generals are not limited in numbers," said Daoist Zhangqi. "One can become a Combat General the moment one breaks through to become a fourth firmament Skyimmortal or Skydemon. I heard that there are a total of twenty-nine Combat Generals under Supremacy. Most of them migrated to the Skywolf continent with their entire clans."


    "What about Guardians?" asked Qin Yun.


    "There are a fixed number of Guardians under Supremacy¡ªa hundred and eight," said Daoist Zhangqi. "An existing Guardian can be replaced by simply defeating or killing them, making the victor the new Guardian."


    "The status of Guardian is obtained by sheer strength," said Daoist Zhangqi wistfully. "However, there are thousands of Skyimmortals and Skydemons. The competition for the privilege of being one of the hundred and eight Guardians is extremely intense. It is very common for Skyimmortals and Skydemons to kill one another in the Skywolf world."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Daoist Zhangqi," asked Qin Yun. "Can one enter the Skywolf continent without being a Combat General or Guardian?"


    "That¡­" Daoist Zhangqi frowned. "According to what I know, the Skywolf continent is where Supremacy''s old subordinates live. The people inside can leave easily enough but it is very difficult for outsiders to enter! Perhaps it''s because Yellow-robed Supremacy doesn''t like to be disturbed. However, one can enter directly after becoming a Combat General or Guardian."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    His daughter was likely to have been taken by Yellow-robed Supremacy. That meant, out of all the eight continents in the Skywolf world, the one she resided in was very likely to be the Skywolf continent.


    But¡­


    The Skywolf continent was very xenophobic and appeared to be very difficult to enter.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Daoist Zhangqi chatted for a long while.


    Daoist Zhangqi was also very willing to befriend Qin Yun. After all, it was very possible for such a powerful mortal sword immortal to become one of Supremacy''s hundred and eight Guardians if he continued cultivating.


    "Daoist Qin Yun, would you like to visit my Azure Inspiration Gate?" asked Daoist Zhangqi immediately. "I believe my sect master would definitely wish to meet you."


    "No thank you, I still have matters to tend to. Besides, after hearing what you have shared, my horizons as a mortal have been truly widened," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I''m even planning to vie for one of the hundred and eight Guardian spots."


    "Guardian?" Daoist Zhangqi sighed. "There are thousands of Skyimmortals and Skydemons vying for only a hundred and eight Guardian spots. The competition is too intense. Without powerful Dharma treasures or mighty divine powers, it''ll be a truly daunting battle."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Okay, let''s part ways here."


    Daoist Zhangqi watched as Qin Yun left in the form of a sword beam. He could not help but sigh. "To be so powerful as a mortal, how impressive will he be in the future?"


    The children on the flying boat also watched with envy as the sword beam flew off.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun overlooked the flourishing city that stood a distance away. There were demons and humans coexisting in it.


    "With my strength, I should be able to sense my daughter through my bloodline if she''s within fifty kilometers of me." Qin Yun frowned slightly. "Among the eight continents of the Skywolf world, the Skywolf continent is the place with the tightest security. Perhaps it''s meant to fend off factions like the Heavenly Courts. I should first head to the other seven continents. Perhaps my daughter is in one of them."


    "If I can''t find her after traversing all seven continents, I''ll think of a way to enter the Skywolf continent," thought Qin Yun.


    "It''s a Small World after all. It should take only a few months to completely traverse the seven continents."


    Qin Yun took one step and appeared in the city below him.


    In the following days¡­


    Qin Yun began his travels around the seven continents of the Skywolf world.


    It also widened his horizons. The Skywolf world gathered the experts of the surrounding Small Worlds, making for a number that exceeded one hundred. Yellow-robed Supremacy also carefully nurtured them, resulting in numerous experts. Humans and demons either fought intensely or coexisted very well. There were humans and demons that became blood brothers, couples, etc. It was a common occurrence, with many human-demon hybrids populating the world¡­


    Speaking of which, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s daughter was a human-dragon hybrid.


    ******


    While Qin Yun traversed the Skywolf world, in a mysterious land in the Three Realms.


    It was far beyond normal space-time.


    Even mighty figures would never find this place if they were not permitted.


    There were clouds swirling around it.


    There was a magnificent palace with the three mysterious words written on it¡ªGreen Touring Palace. Around the palace was a series of buildings. The small compounds numbered in the tens of thousands.


    In one of the ordinary compounds was Daoist Divine Firmament, decked out in an azure-colored robe! It was actually Daoist Divine Firmament''s second Essence Soul.


    "I have no choice." Daoist Divine Firmament looked at the azure-colored calabash on the table in front of him. He muttered, "We were lucky this time. Qin Yun discovered the massive array before it could cause problems. Those that charged in were only fiendcelestial guardians, allowing me to easily settle the problem!"


    "But that Empyrean Lord Kuifu paid such a heavy price to create a large-scale world passageway¡­ He even sent more than a hundred fiendcelestial guardians into it without having absolute confidence. The price he paid matches the worth of several superior-grade Numinous treasures." Daoist Divine Firmament''s eyes had purple lightning sparking through them. "To pay such a heavy price to conquer a Small World? Only a fool would believe that was his only goal."


    "He must have some other motive."


    "This motive far exceeds a few superior-grade Numinous treasures," thought Daoist Divine Firmament. "He will not easily give up."


    "He was discovered ahead of time by Qin Yun previously. But will we be able to discover the second ploy ahead of time?"


    "I have no confidence that we will."


    "The Great Chang world can''t afford the loss. I have no choice." Daoist Divine Firmament''s eyes turned firm. "I can no longer take my time slowly creating the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. I have to raise my strength as quickly as possible."


    Swoosh.


    Daoist Divine Firmament stood up, grabbed the azure-skinned calabash and placed it by his waist before walking out the compound.


    Soon, he arrived outside a hall.


    At the hall''s entrance was a black lion sculpture.


    "Senior, I would like to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool," said Daoist Divine Firmament politely.


    "Myriad Dharma Pool?" The black lion sculpture opened its eyes and looked at him. "Each of Master''s personal disciples is only given one chance to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool. Either it''s because they are about to break through from a ninth firmament Skyimmortal into a Golden Immortal or they are cultivating in some powerful divine power. Most of them only enter the Myriad Dharma Pool when they reach a critical stage in their cultivation. You are only a third Firmament Skyimmortal¡­ Isn''t it a little early for you to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool? Are you certain?"


    "Yes," said Daoist Divine Firmament.


    "Alright."


    The sculpture nodded slightly. "I hope you will not regret your choice in the future."


    With that said, the hall behind him began to stir with runes as it connected to another space.


    "You may enter," said the sculpture.


    Daoist Divine Firmament bowed slightly before he walked towards the hall. When his body made contact with the runes, he naturally tunneled through and vanished.

 435 Intrinsic Flying Swords Transformation

    Skywolf world.


    It was nighttime. Most of the commoners in a tiny city were asleep.


    Qin Yun was inside an inn. Through the window, he looked far into the night sky. The vertical Eye of Lightning was active at his glabella, the area between his brows was already opened as he observed carefully.


    Boom! Boom!


    He felt faint fluctuations reach him.


    Far away in the clouds, two powerful figures were clashing. They were both existences at the Skydemon level.


    "They are both Skydemons that cultivate their bodies. These two Skydemons are about my strength," thought Qin Yun. "Yellow-robed Supremacy was a great demon in the Ancient Heavenly Courts. He spread many powerful ancient demonic Dharmic formulations throughout the Skywolf world, allowing the demons of the Skywolf world to become rather powerful."


    Humans were typically more perceptive than demons on average.


    But in the Skywolf world¡­ humans did not hold any advantage over demons.


    "I have been in the Skywolf world for just slightly over a month. I''m already used to seeing Skyimmortals and Skydemons fight. This is already the thirty-third battle I have encountered in the Skywolf world." Qin Yun reflected on the matter. The Skywolf world had thousands of Skyimmortals and Skydemons. Although the numbers were huge, they tended to avoid mortal residences when fighting. Therefore, the Skywolf world mortals did not think much of the constant battles! While mortals farmed or did their daily business¡­ they would occasionally see powerful demons and immortals fighting in the sky.


    This actually inspired more Skywolf world mortals to pursue cultivation! Many wished to cultivate to gain immortality!


    "Creak."


    Qin Yun closed the window.


    He walked to the bed and sat cross-legged on it. He chuckled. "This is the first time I''m staying at a inn since I arrived in the Skywolf world."


    "I can sense my Intrinsic Flying Sword''s eagerness. Is it about to break through?" Qin Yun extended his left hand. Soon, the Misty Rain Sword appeared in his palm. "In the Great Chang world, mortal sword immortals have historically been able to nurture their Intrinsic Flying Swords to the transcendent-grade at most. As for the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, their Intrinsic Flying Swords can reach the ranks of Numinous treasures."


    "Although I''m a mortal sword immortal, is it actually possible for my Intrinsic Flying Sword to break through after nurturing it as long as I have?" Qin Yun had no experience in the matter. After all, he had never heard of a mortal sword immortal raising their Intrinsic Flying Sword to the Numinous treasure grade.


    However, he had also never heard of mortal sword immortals matching Skyimmortals and Skygods.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as the Intrinsic Flying Sword floated in the middle of his room.


    He took out the Two World Picture and immediately, a large amount of treasure flew out. The pieces piled on the ground and instantly the room was lit up with all sorts of colors. There was also an ice-cold draft circling the area.


    "I''ll attempt the breakthrough." Qin Yun stopped repressing the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s stirrings and allowed it to absorb the essence from the treasures he laid out.


    Immediately, the ice-cold air that lingered surged into the Misty Rain Sword. The treasures beneath lit up as several points of light swarmed into Misty Rain Sword.


    Following that, the sword hummed!


    The flying sword was beginning to transform!


    Qin Yun looked very delighted. His Dao domain had long sealed off his room. Although there was a rich treasure aura and the constant humming of his sword coming from inside the room, no one outside could notice it.


    "It has really broken through."


    Qin Yun watched in excitement.


    The flying sword''s humming was a natural result of the transformation that made it tremble. It constantly absorbed the treasures beneath it. And thankfully, Qin Yun had sufficient treasure!


    Since he was prepared to lose his life in the Skywolf world, he had left many of his important treasures, like the Minor Empyrean Seal, in his homeworld before setting off. However, he also brought many one-time use treasures with him. He had also prepared a lot of ''food'' for the flying sword to specially nourish it.


    Now, it had really broken through.


    ¡­


    Although it was excited, the flying sword''s transformation required a lot of treasures to feed it. The process lasted an entire night, coming to a stop only when it turned bright outside.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun waved his hand as the Misty Rain Sword floated above his palm.


    The present Misty Rain Sword seemed to be made of ice. It looked very ordinary but, if one observed the blade carefully, one could see a misty rain swirling inside the translucent blade. It was as though a massive world was hidden inside the Misty Rain Sword.


    Although its might was completely converged, Qin Yun could sense that as long as he triggered it a little with his Dharmic powers, the Misty Rain Sword would be able to produce staggering strength.


    "Numinous treasure. It has finally entered the ranks of a Numinous treasure." Qin Yun was delighted. "Although it''s only an inferior-grade Numinous treasure, as an Intrinsic Flying Sword¡­ it can match the power of a superior-grade Numinous treasure."


    If a real superior-grade Dharmic treasure was placed in front of Qin Yun, his Dharmic powers would''ve been insufficient to control it.


    His Dharmic powers could at best control inferior-grade Numinous treasures! Of course, compared to things like the Cosmic Bangle, controlling his Intrinsic Flying Sword was a lot easier. It also took less of a toll on his Dharmic powers.


    "Compared to the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, my realm and Dharma treasure are in no way lacking. I just have weaker Dharmic powers," thought Qin Yun. "However, to have greater Dharmic powers, I need to first condense an Essence Soul! But I failed in my attempt to condense one. Up to this day, I have not found the reason for my failure."


    Qin Yun pondered for a moment before shaking his head gently. Creating an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation was not that easy.


    "I have to continue. I have to finish traversing the seven continents as fast as possible. After all, the earlier I find my daughter, the safer she will be." Qin Yun immediately got up. With a wave of his hand, he put away the remnant treasures on the ground. He sensed that his Intrinsic Flying Sword could continue growing.


    Clearly¡ª


    As an Intrinsic Flying Sword, its growth was contingent on two aspects. One was the Sword Dao the flying sword contained! The other was a sufficient amount of treasures. Since Qin Yun was constantly amassing both, the flying sword was allowed to gradually improve and transform.


    ******


    Other than staying in an inn because the flying sword''s transformation took so much time, Qin Yun didn''t rest one moment while he was in the Skywolf world. He visited many cities and even traversed remote mountains and lakes. As long as his daughter was within fifty kilometers of him, the acute sensitivity of his bloodline would be enough for him to discover her immediately. Therefore, he visited mountains and lakes no matter how remote they were.


    However, after spending two months and three days searching, he had gone from the North Plains continent in the north to the vast ice plains. Qin Yun stood there silently for a long while.


    "She''s not here."


    "It has been two months and three days. I have traveled the seven continents but have failed to find my daughter."


    "The greatest possibility is that she is in the Skywolf continent where Yellow-robed Supremacy resides."


    "In order to guard against the Heavenly Courts and the major factions of the Three Realms, Yellow-robed Supremacy has long managed the Skywolf continent in a strict manner. It''s impossible to sneak in." Qin Yun understood this point. Even the Heavenly Courts'' troops were incapable of doing so, and with an existence possessing combat strength that matched a mighty figure watching over a continent of a Small World? It was wishful thinking for him to sneak in!


    Qin Yun pondered. "Then, there''s only one way. Defeat a Guardian. By replacing one, I will become the new Guardian."


    "As one of the hundred and eight Guardians, I can enter the Skywolf continent to save my daughter."


    The hundred and eight Guardians selected from thousands of Skyimmortals and Skydemons would be nurtured by Yellow-robed Supremacy. Over time, these Guardians would become significantly stronger. Their positions would only get more stable and it would become harder to replace a Guardian.


    But to save his daughter, this was Qin Yun''s only choice.

 436 Qin Yuns Self-recommendation

    Chapter 436: Qin Yun''s Self-recommendation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Moments later.


    "Sou!"


    A beam descended from the sky and landed by a mountainside. Along the mountain was a huge building complex that was partially concealed by lush trees.


    "Dao Seeking Sword Mansion." Qin Yun took a step forward and soon saw the entrance to the sword mansion.


    The mountain gates were tall and rugged.


    Through the entrance, Qin Yun saw a large number of humans and demons sparring with each other in groups of two or three. Nearly all of them were in locked in melee combat, with only three sparring by controlling a Dharma treasure from a distance.


    "The biggest Sword Dao sect, Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," thought Qin Yun. It''s considered one of the best factions in the North Plains continent but it''s only considered second-rate in the entire Skywolf world. After all, there are too few Skyimmortals and Skydemons willing to study the Sword Dao."


    Those with strong physical bodies used all kinds of weapons.


    Spears, poles, axes, hammers, sabers¡­


    There were too few who used swords!


    Therefore, even though Dao Seeking Sword Mansion was the best Sword Dao sect in the Skywolf world, it was ranked beyond tenth place among all the Skywolf world sects. Of course, it was still much stronger than the sect he previously encountered, the Azure Inspiration Gate which only had one Skyimmortal.


    "The Dao Seeking Sword Mansion has one Mansion Lord named Chufu. He''s apparently an existence at the fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. He is one of the twenty-nine Combat Generals under Yellow-robed Supremacy," thought Qin Yun. "He possesses great strength but, unfortunately, the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion has fewer than twenty Skyimmortals and Skydemons! The sect''s overall strength is weaker, giving them a rank beyond tenth place in the Skywolf world. Sects that are ranked in the top five all have more than a hundred Skyimmortals and Skydemons."


    With this thought in mind, he continued walking towards Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s entrance.


    The entrance had no guards.


    Qin Yun casually walked into the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s large, flat land. Many humans and demons dashed around the land as they sparred.


    "Bam!"


    A tiger demon was sent flying backward, and hurtled in Qin Yun''s direction along an astral wind.


    Qin Yun simply took a step back and made way, the wind making his robes flutter.


    The stout tiger demon rolled before standing up. He held a sword in each hand and he smiled at Qin Yun. "Junior Brother, I nearly hit you. Eh, I don''t seem to recall seeing you before?"


    "It''s my first time here," said Qin Yun.


    "First time? Are you here to become an apprentice?" asked the tiger demon. "Our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion typically only accepts people at the Essence Soul realm! Those at the mortal level will only be accepted by passing a test."


    Qin Yun looked at his surroundings. The sparring humans and demons were mostly at the Essence Soul realm. The remaining were typically at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    "See that?" said the tiger demon with a chuckle. "Our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion is the strongest Sword Dao sect in the world. It''s not easy for mortals to join us. Those that are accepted are those with great talent in the Sword Dao. All sword apprentices that are produced by our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion are adept in combat."


    "I''m not here to be an apprentice," said Qin Yun.


    "You aren''t?" The tiger demon was taken aback.


    "Tiger Qu, why are you chattering over there? Aren''t we sparring?" A goat demon a distance away walked over holding a huge sword in one hand.


    "This mortal punk is here in our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion for the first time but he says he''s not here to be apprenticed," said the tiger demon.


    "Punk, what are you here for then? Finding a senior from your family?" The goat demon''s eyes had glowed red, making him look murderous.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "I''ve come to the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion to recommend myself for the post of swordmaster."


    "You are recommending yourself for swordmaster?"


    "Swordmaster?"


    The tiger and goat demons were astonished. Even those sparring in the vicinity heard this conversation. They could not help but stop and look at Qin Yun.


    "Swordmaster?"


    "This mortal wants to recommend himself for the post of swordmaster?" All of them found it incredulous.


    "Punk," boomed the goat demon. "Do you know how many swordmasters our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion has? Do you know that many Skyimmortals and Skydemons are only sword apprentices even to this day!"


    "I know. The disciples of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion are all called sword apprentices." Qin Yun nodded. "There are currently only two swordmasters. One of them is Mansion Lord Chufu, who is also Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s first swordmaster. The other is Daoist Blackkill, Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s second swordmaster. I''m here¡­ to recommend myself to be Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s third swordmaster!"


    "He''s mad!"


    "This mortal wants to recommend himself to be our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s third swordmaster?"


    More Dao Seeking Sword Mansion sword apprentices gathered around. Some were mocking him, others were looking at Qin Yun curiously.


    However, Qin Yun remained very calm. He swept his surroundings before speaking a lot louder. "Why? I heard that Mansion Lord Chugu once invited all Sword Dao experts to visit the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. As long as one passes a test, they can become the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s swordmaster. Is that false?"


    "Of course not!" A red-dressed woman walked over. Her aura had a boundless icy chill to it. She was a female Skyimmortal.


    "Senior Sister Jun."


    "Senior Sister Jun."


    Everyone was rather respectful towards her.


    The red-dressed woman looked at Qin Yun. "It''s naturally true that Mansion Lord invited all the Sword Dao experts in the world to challenge the test for the swordmaster role in our sword mansion! However¡­ to be a swordmaster, one must have sufficient strength."


    Sou! Sou! Sou!


    Figures with powerful auras flew out from the building complex of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, rushing to see the commotion.


    "Someone wants to recommend himself as swordmaster?"


    "Who is it?"


    The strongest auras among the newcomers were all at the Skyimmortal and Skydemon realm. In a blink of an eye, nine of them had gathered, looking at Qin Yun with interest.


    They could tell that the man in linen clothes was only a mortal.


    "Your aura shows that you are only a Connate Golden Core, albeit one that is stronger than the typical Connate Golden Core. I doubt your head is damaged." A rhinoceros demon spoke firmly. "Are you sure you wish to recommend yourself as swordmaster?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    The hundred and eight Guardians enjoyed a lofty position. Many of them cultivated under Yellow-robed Supremacy''s tutelage, so just meeting one of them was difficult.


    It was impossible for these Guardians to accept every challenge!


    Typically, a weakling''s challenge¡­ would be ignored by the Guardians! Some Guardians went in seclusion for extended periods of time so typically weaklings had no right to even meet a Guardian.


    Therefore, Qin Yun had to prove himself first! With sufficient strength and status, he could force a Guardian to accept his challenge.


    Qin Yun also wished to read the Sword Dao manuals in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion to enhance himself. With the status of being Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s swordmaster¡­ he would also be qualified to challenge a Guardian. Guardians would not be able to ignore him.


    "Not everyone has what it takes to make our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion activate the swordmaster examination," said the rhinoceros demon. "To eliminate the weaker candidates, Manor Lord has set some rules. Those that recommend themselves for swordmaster¡­ have to first pass the Demonic Servants Sword Formation."


    The red-dressed woman sneered from the side.


    "Punk, here''s a reminder. The demonic servants will not show mercy! The average third Firmament Essence Soul might even lose their life when caught inside the Demonic Servants Sword Formation. It''s not too late to give up."


    "Let''s begin," said Qin Yun.


    "Eh¡­"


    "Is he being supercilious or is he really that confident?"


    "Could he be a powerful reincarnated figure?"


    The sword cultivators watching were perplexed.


    In the cultivation world, an ordinary-looking child was not to be underestimated! The immortals in the Skywolf world were considered knowledgeable as well. They knew that even an ordinary child might be the avatar of a Golden Immortal or Buddha!


    "Since you wish to proceed by your own accord, you will get your wish. It''s not our fault if you die," said the red-dressed woman. "Demonic servants, take up formation."


    Swoosh.


    A formless gray fog floated over from afar, condensing into a gray-robed swordsman. He wielded a sword and had a cold expression.


    Wisps of gray fog surged over from afar.


    They scattered around, each one forming a gray-robed swordsman. They were staring coldly at Qin Yun.


    There were a total of eighteen gray-robed swordsmen!


    "They are all rather powerful swordsmen." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "Kill!"


    The eighteen swordsmen were everywhere, with some floating in midair. Amid their cold stares, they simultaneously moved to attack Qin Yun. Their trajectories followed no set pattern.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun flicked his finger.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Wisps of Sword Qi flew out. A total of six Sword Qi wisps separately attacked the eighteen swordsmen. Their expressions changed as they used their sword techniques to parry the Sword Qi but the Sword Qi''s attacks were of a mystical nature. With just one strike, it tore through their attacks and struck their bodies. It caused the swordsmen''s bodies to dissipate.


    In just a blink of an eye!


    The six Sword Qi wisps flicked by Qin Yun''s finger had struck all eighteen swordsmen, reducing them to gray fog. Following that, the gray fog flew away.


    The rhinoceros demon, the red-dressed woman, and the rest of the nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons, as well as the hundreds of sword apprentices gathered there were staring wide-eyed at the scene.


    "Does that count as cracking the Demonic Servants Sword Formation?" Qin Yun looked at the crowd and asked.


    "Yes, yes, of course." The rhinoceros demon was so agitated that his eyes stared wide. He said with a laugh, "Indeed, do not judge a book by its cover. However, the swordmaster test is a lot more difficult than this Demonic Servants Sword Formation."


    "I''m looking forward to it as well. However, it''s probably a lot harder than you imagine to become our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s third swordmaster." The red-dressed woman''s eyes lit up, her tone turning a lot more amiable. "By the way, I haven''t gotten your name."


    "Qin Yun."

 437 Birth of the Third Swordmaster

    Chapter 437: Birth of the Third Swordmaster


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    When Qin Yun cracked the Demonic Servants Sword Formation, in a cave abode behind the mountain of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, Daoist Blackkill was also informed of the feat.


    "Master, there is a mortal named Qin Yun who has come to our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion to recommend himself as our third swordmaster. He has already cracked the Demonic Servants Sword Formation." A dog demon youth bowed respectfully.


    There was a black-dressed Daoist sitting cross-legged in a pavilion.


    He opened his eyes, and looked deeply and curiously at the other side of the mountain. He exclaimed, "He''s really a mortal."


    "This mortal named Qin Yun did not use a Dharma treasure nor did he even draw his sword. He only released a few wisps of Sword Qi to destroy the Demonic Servants Sword Formation," said the dog demon immediately.


    "Oh, such strength with just a few wisps of Sword Qi?" Daoist Blackkill stood up. "I''ll go take a look."


    Swoosh.


    With one step, Daoist Blackkill transformed into a black wind as he rapidly flew towards the other side of the mountain.


    When he landed on the massive flat ground of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, the rhinoceros demon, red-dressed woman, and the rest of the nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons were in the midst of opening the Door of the Swordmaster.


    "Rumble~" An ancient, metallic ice-cold door gradually rose.


    Qin Yun looked intently at the dark passage that was revealed with the rising of the door. By the side, the red-dressed woman introduced, "Daoist Qin, feel free to enter¡­ Daoist Brother Blackkill?"


    The surrounding Skyimmortals and Skydemons noticed Daoist Blackkill and greeted him politely, "Daoist Brother Blackkill."


    "Greetings Swordmaster." The disciples of these Skyimmortals and Skydemons were extremely respectful as well.


    In the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion¡­


    The person of highest standing was no doubt the Mansion Lord, and second to him was Daoist Blackkill. These two were the only two swordmasters of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion.


    And beneath them were the ten plus Skyimmortals and Skydemons! They also had to respectfully address Blackkill as ''Daoist Brother Blackkill.''


    "I came to watch." Daoist Blackkill''s eyes were cold and unfathomable like an frozen lake. He looked at Qin Yun, the corners of his mouth suffusing a smile. "Daoist Qin, feel free to enter. This swordmaster test is not life-threatening but it is very difficult. Ever since Mansion Lord invited all Sword Dao experts in the world to challenge the role of swordmaster, I am the only person that has passed the test."


    "Fellow Daoist Blackkill, I''ve long heard of your reputation. This is my first time meeting you," greeted Qin Yun politely.


    Since he had planned to join the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, he naturally studied it.


    The second swordmaster of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, was a third Firmament Skyimmortal. He was adept at using sword formations to attack enemies. Over the years, he had challenged Guardians twice! However, he failed in both challenges.


    Yet no one thought lowly of him.


    This was because the hundred and eight Guardians typically fought ruthlessly against their challengers in order to inspire a sense of shock and awe! If they were not harsh on their challengers, it would invite many Skyimmortals and Skydemons to challenge them. Perhaps one would manage to defeat them. Since they were so ruthless, many Skyimmortals and Skydemons died in battles with Guardians.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was also happy to see this happen. This was the law of the jungle! Survival of the fittest! Demons pursued this belief to begin with and Yellow-robed Supremacy was an ancient demon after all.


    Daoist Blackkill had challenged Guardians twice and, despite being defeated, he managed to escape with his life¡­ That proved his strength! Clearly, he was already very close to the strength required of a Guardian.


    "This is my first time meeting you, fellow Daoist Qin. I wish you success. After all, Mansion Lord is always with Supremacy, only coming back here occasionally. I''m quite lonely as the sole swordmaster in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," said Dao Seeking Sword Mansion with a smile.


    "Yes, every time we want Daoist Brother Blackkill to give us some pointers, he won''t even bother with us," said the rhinoceros demon helplessly.


    "You rhinoceros, all you know is to use brute force. There are at least ten people in the sword mansion that can give you pointers at your level of understanding in the Sword Dao," snorted Daoist Blackkill. As the only swordmaster present, everyone wished to receive pointers from him but he too needed to focus on his cultivation¡­ He would only occasionally give them pointers.


    "The swordmaster test created by Mansion Lord is just too difficult."


    "Even Sister Jun can''t pass it."


    "Daoist Qin, you have to be careful."


    The Skyimmortals and Skydemons spoke warmly. They were all upper echelons of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. They had not paid Qin Yun much attention in the beginning but when he destroyed the Demonic Servants Sword Formation with a few wisps of Sword Qi, without the use of a Dharma treasure or even drawing his sword, they no longer regarded him so superciliously. After all, with what he was capable of, it meant that his strength was in no way inferior to theirs. In addition, Qin Yun was a mortal. It made him an enigma.


    Qin Yun smiled. "Everyone, I''ll be entering."


    "I await the good news," said Daoist Blackkill, the rhinoceros demon, and the other Skyimmortals and Skydemons. The large group of disciples also waited in anticipation.


    Qin Yun strode into the dark passageway.


    "Hey, do you think this Qin Yun guy will succeed?" asked a fat man as he touched his head.


    "A mortal with strength that matches that of a Skyimmortal? He naturally has an extraordinary background," said a golden-horned demon to his side. "He is probably quite confident if he dares come to our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion to recommend himself as swordmaster. However, the test created by Mansion Lord is very difficult."


    "Let''s wait. We will know the results in a while."


    "Although I wish to see our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion produce another swordmaster, only Blackkill has succeeded to this day ever since Mansion Lord set the test."


    These Skyimmortals and Skydemons discussed and waited.


    ¡­


    Walking down the passageway, Qin Yun entered a hidden hall.


    There were black columns in it.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun walked into the hall and surveyed the surroundings.


    "Whoosh."


    A phantom appeared.


    It was a lanky man with a sword on his back. Even though it was a phantom, Qin Yun could sense the inundating sword might that the man released! His eyes seemed like two swords that were as sharp as the deadliest blade. He was definitely an expert with a superior Sword Dao than Daoist Blackkill.


    "Is this a phantom left behind by Dao Seeking Sword Mansion Lord, Chufu?" thought Qin Yun.


    "Fellow Daoist, I, Chufu, am very grateful that you are willing to come to my Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. This post of swordmaster¡­ is the highest in my Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. It cannot be easily taken. According to the rules I set, swordmasters must have high attainments in the Sword Dao to be a master; therefore, I set this test. It tests one''s attainments in the Sword Dao," Chufu''s phantom said with a smile. "Here are eight sword columns. In a while, they will produce the Eight Gates Sword Formation! Fellow Daoist, you are not to use any Dharmic powers. You have to use your sword arts through your Dao domain alone. If you can crack my Eight Gates Sword Formation, you will become a swordmaster of my Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. If you can''t, or if you use your Dharmic powers, you will be teleported out and fail instantly."


    "Fellow Daoist, be careful."


    With that said, Chufu''s phantom dissipated.


    Following that, the eight black columns were activated, condensing Sword Qi in the process.


    "Dharmic powers are not to be used?" thought Qin Yun. "That''s actually beneficial for me. Although I can''t use my Intrinsic Flying Sword, I can also avoid my weakness of having weak Dharmic powers. Sword masters must have high attainments in the Sword Dao to be a master? That''s right."


    Qin Yun had a good impression of Chufu although he had not really met him.


    From this test, he could tell that¡­


    Chufu was a person who devoted himself to the sword!


    He sought swordmasters only based on their attainments in the Sword Dao.


    "Whoosh!" Many Sword Qi condensed amid the Eight Gates Sword Formation. The eight gates transformed, forming a Sword Qi world.


    This Sword Qi world appeared as a blur but Qin Yun could sense the Sword Qi coming at him.


    "Interesting." Qin Yun smiled as his mind whirled.


    He condensed wisps of Sword Qi with his Dao domain!


    Three hundred and sixty Sword Qi formed around him, naturally producing the Cyclic Sword Flash! The Cyclic Sword Flash formed by three hundred and sixty Sword Qi was perfectly complete. Instantly, the massive number of Sword Qi hiding in the aether surged over, striking the Cyclic Sword Flash. But all of them were blocked.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The Sword Qi dissipated upon impact but condensed once again.


    "Stars Like Rain." Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    More than half of the three hundred and sixty wisps of Sword Qi flew out like a dazzling meteor, surging around like a meteor shower! They swept past every spot, grinding apart all the Sword Qi that hid amid the aether.


    "Boom!" The eight black columns that powered the Eight Gates Sword Formation appeared for a moment before vanishing.


    The sword formation underwent another change.


    This time, countless Sword Qi surrounded him in a dense formation. They no longer hid but fully revealed themselves, like troops in battle formation.


    ¡­


    The Eight Gates Sword Formation had a total of eight transformations.


    Each transformation had different attacks. However, Qin Yun was a sword immortal who devoted himself to the Sword Dao. Just his attainments when he first created the Dreamlike Sword were enough to crack the Eight Gates Sword Formation. Besides, after obtaining the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma and the three Sword Dao manuals, his Sword Dao had improved tremendously. This test had ignored the aspects of Dharma treasures and Dharmic powers. All it tested was one''s attainments in Sword Dao.


    Just ten minutes later, the Eight Gates Sword Formation''s eight transformations were all defeated by Qin Yun!


    ******


    There were more and more disciples gathered on the massive flatland where Dao Seeking Sword Mansion stood.


    Daoist Blackkill stood there with the nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons beside him. All of them were staring intently at the dark passageway inside the ice-cold door.


    "Oh?" Daoist Blackkill''s brows suddenly picked up as he could not hide the shock in his eyes.


    "He succeeded?" The other nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons also sensed it.


    "How is he faster than Blackkill? I remember that he took more than half a day to crack the formation."


    "How long has it been? About ten minutes, right?"


    The Skyimmortals and Skydemons were astounded.


    The speed at which one cracked the formation was also evidence of one''s Sword Dao attainment.


    Suddenly, footsteps were heard coming from deep within the passageway. Daoist Blackkill and the nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons looked carefully and saw a figure walking over. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    "Congratulations Daoist Qin, you have become the third swordmaster of our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," said Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. Although his voice sounded aloof, it resounded through the area.


    "Congratulations, Swordmaster Qin." The nine Skyimmortals and Skydemons were beaming with joy.


    "Greetings, Swordmaster."


    The large group of sword apprentices shouted in unison! Anyone would wish for their own sect to grow stronger. Furthermore, having an additional swordmaster also meant that they had another powerful Sword Dao expert to guide them.


    From that moment forth, Dao Seeking Sword Mansion had three swordmasters¡ªChufu, Daoist Blackkill and Qin Yun!

 438 Realization

    Chapter 438: Realization


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Dao Seeking Sword Mansion was a very lively place that night. Human and demons gathered under one roof to celebrate the birth of the third swordmaster of their sect.


    Sixteen Skyimmortals, Skydemons, and Daoist Blackkill congratulated Qin Yun!


    The banquet ended late into the night.


    Qin Yun and Daoist Blackkill walked beside each other. Far off, they saw sword mansion disciples who reeked of alcohol walk off in groups. There were human males and tiger demons walking hand over shoulders and there were human-demon couples flying off intimately.


    "Humans and demons show signs of rapprochement in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," thought Qin Yun wistfully. "In the Skywolf world ruled by Yellow-robed Supremacy, humans and demons live together in harmony. In certain places, humans and demons fight, but in other places both species coexist peacefully, with it being common for people to be sworn brothers or couples."


    "Brother Qin Yun," said Daoist Blackkill with a smile. "I''ve seen many powerful Skyimmortals and Skydemons but this is my first time seeing someone like you, with such immense strength despite being mortal. Are you a reincarnated Skyimmortal? Or...?"


    "I''m not a reincarnated Skyimmortal," admitted Qin Yun frankly.


    Daoist Blackkill was secretly surprised.


    This was even more amazing.


    It meant that the mortal in front of him had astonishing talent. His strength would probably one day far exceed his current state.


    "I''m truly impressed with your talent." Daoist Blackkill spoke as he led Qin Yun to a pavilion tower. A stout tiger-headed man stood there.


    The tiger-headed man immediately bowed, "Greetings, Swordmasters."


    "This is a divine general that Mansion Lord brought when he first came to the Skywolf world," said Daoist Blackkill. "He is in charge of guarding the Sword Repository."


    "Sword Repository." Qin Yun looked at the pavilion tower in front of him.


    It looked ordinary, but the pavilion tower completely shielded itself from probes. Clearly, there was something of great power contained inside.


    The pavilion tower had an array formation that was extremely powerful.


    "Sword Repository is the most important spot in our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. There are many cultivation Dharmic formulations and Sword Dao manuals in it. It has a total of three floors, with Dharmic formulations and manuals becoming more valuable the higher you go. Ordinary disciples are heavily restricted from reading these manuals since cultivation Dharmic formulations incur the envy of the heavens. Reading through a powerful Dharmic formulation a set number of times will automatically destroy it," explained Daoist Blackkill.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. He was well aware of this.


    If one mastered a Dharmic formulation, one could naturally produce another written record but the materials needed for that were very special. Ordinary paper could not hold powerful Dharmic formulations.


    "Brother Qin Yun, you are now a swordmaster of our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. The manuals in it are free for your perusal," said Daoist Blackkill with a smile.


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded. "By the way, Brother Blackkill, is there any detailed information on the Skywolf world''s hundred and eight Guardians inside Sword Repository?"


    "You wish to challenge them too?" Daoist Blackkill smiled faintly. "That''s right, at our level of strength, we all wish to become one of the hundred and eight Guardians and meet Supremacy so as to receive his guidance!"


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "There is information inside Sword Repository but it is nowhere near detailed enough," said Daoist Blackkill. "As I have always been hoping to challenge them, I have deliberately gathered information on all the Guardians. If you wish to challenge them, make sure to select one carefully¡­ the one that you have the highest confidence in fighting. After all, they definitely do not show mercy when challenged. If they can kill the challenger, they won''t hesitate to do so. It''s very normal since the moment they get defeated, they lose the position of Guardian. They would also lose all sorts of benefits so they have to be entirely ruthless."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "It''s good that you understand. Great attention is needed if you wish to challenge Guardians," said Daoist Blackkill. He flipped his hand, revealing a scroll. "This is the most detailed information gathered in the recent ten years. There have not been any changes to the Guardians over the past ten years."


    The scroll flew over.


    "Thanks." Qin Yun extended his hand to grab it, feeling grateful.


    "It''s nothing. After all, we are from the same sect from this day forth. We should help each other," said Daoist Blackkill with a smile. After Qin Yun said that he was not a reincarnated Skyimmortal, he was determined to befriend Qin Yun.


    "Here, follow me in."


    Daoist Blackkill led the way as Qin Yun followed him into the Sword Repository.


    It had a total of three floors and many manuals placed on shelves.


    "Our Mansion Lord was once a general in the Heavenly Courts. He was a subordinate of Supremacy from the start," whispered Daoist Blackkill. "He followed Supremacy to the Skywolf world and is heavily trusted by Supremacy. He knows that Mansion Lord is fanatical about the Sword Dao¡­ so he gave many amazing Sword Dao manuals to Mansion Lord."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was surprised. Their Mansion Lord actually had such a backstory? This was the first time he was hearing that.


    "They are purely Sword Dao manuals, not cultivation Dharmic formulations or divine powers, so they are not considered too valuable," said Daoist Blackkill. "But to us who dedicate ourselves to the Sword Dao, they are very useful."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    "According to Mansion Lord, some of the Sword Dao manuals in here were written by great demons during the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts. There are also some that Mansion Lord and company gathered when they were generals. Supremacy does not like sword arts so nearly all the Sword Dao manuals were given to Mansion Lord," said Daoist Blackkill. "It is why our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion has the right to call itself the number one Sword Dao sect in the Skywolf world."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he looked at the manuals around him.


    So many Sword Dao manuals that had been amassed¡­ since the Ancient Heavenly Courts era?


    The Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s resources far exceeded his imaginings.


    "The most powerful manuals are on the third floor. You have plenty of time to read them," said Daoist Blackkill with a smile.


    ¡­


    That night.


    Although Daoist Blackkill left early, Qin Yun remained inside Sword Repository, engrossing himself in the manuals.


    Pure Sword Dao.


    The written records of Sword Dao seniors that went as far back as the Ancient Heavenly Courts era broadened Qin Yun''s horizons.


    Although the Golden Light Sect''s sect master had given him manuals, the three sword art manuals were mainly records from those that spied on the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. It was not considered a complete Sword Dao manual and so was not very useful to his cultivation. It was not even comparable to the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma. Yet even though the Blue Clouds Immortal Dharma was complete, it was not of the Sword Dao variety.


    Qin Yun was truly immersed in his reading.


    "This strike is very similar to my Bright Moon Cold Nights but even more powerful." Qin Yun read fervently. The complete Sword Dao manual taught from a low level to a high level in a systemic manner! It was naturally a lot easier learning that way.


    Unknowingly¡­


    Dawn came outside Sword Repository.


    Qin Yun gained tremendously from his night of reading. He felt that his Dreamlike Sword could be improved once again.


    Qin Yun looked out of the window and mocked himself, "When it comes to cultivation, time really passes fast. It''s easy to read through these manuals but it will take quite a while to carefully ponder everything in it. I do not have time to slowly cultivate. I have to quickly choose a Guardian to challenge. As long as I become one of the hundred and eight Guardians, I''ll be able to enter the Skywolf continent and save my daughter as soon as possible."


    As he held the scroll that Daoist Blackkill had given him, he carefully read it while walking out of Sword Repository.


    With his strength, a wisp of his psyche was enough to instantly memorize all the information within.


    "These Guardians are all extraordinary. A small few of them are able to fight beyond their levels, fighting as fourth or fifth firmament Skyimmortals," thought Qin Yun. "I have to pick a person I have an advantage over to increase my chances."


    He was not training himself.


    He was doing it to save his daughter! Naturally, the greater the chances, the better.


    Qin Yun began narrowing it down in his mind.


    As he pondered, he headed towards his residence in the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. As swordmaster, he naturally had a cave abode.


    "Junior Brother, can you not understand why your sword art has not progressed at all?" Two wolf demons a distance away were wielding dual swords.


    The thinner and weaker wolf demon was puzzled. He shook his head gently, "Senior Brother, I''ve been working very hard but I haven''t improved at all. I just can''t match you."


    "I believe you understand the theory, but you do not have an intuitive comprehension of it." The stout wolf demon shook his head, his voice a deep baritone. "It''s not wrong for you to learn from me in the beginning. But since you have built up a deep foundation, you should understand the saying: Learn from me you stand, copy from me you fall! You learned my sword arts to build up a foundation but the breakthroughs that follow should be yours alone. What suits you the most is the best. If you take the same path down an identical Sword Dao, it will lead to a dead end because that is my Sword Dao."


    The distant conversation left Qin Yun''s head buzzing instantly.


    "What suits you the most is the best. Taking the same path will only lead to a dead end," muttered Qin Yun. "I actually forgot the most basic lesson?"


    "The condensation of an Essence Soul¡­"


    "Back when I was cultivating, I had figured out three paths. Not one of them was about condensing the Essence Soul as a sword."


    "Due to the fact that an Essence Soul is a sword is based on the sword immortal Dharmic formulation created by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, I have been deliberately taking that path?"


    "I got it wrong."


    "I finally know where I was wrong."


    "My Dao heart was influenced by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s status. I believed that his path is the right one but in fact, there are thousands of pathways when it comes to cultivation. I can take a completely different one, one that suits me." Qin Yun instantly felt his confidence blaze.


    The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s status was too high.


    He was one of Daoism''s Three Pure Ones.


    He was above Golden Immortals or Buddhas, one of the top existences in the Three Realms. He was truly an existence with boundless powers.


    With the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage having produced two Golden Immortals, Qin Yun had innately believed that the Essence Soul as a sword was the right way.


    Yet, he forgot the most basic truth: something suited to oneself was the best!


    "According to my original theories, an Essence Soul should look like a normal person and not a sword." An inspired impulse appeared in Qin Yun''s mind.

 439 Advancing by Leaps and Bounds

    Chapter 439: Advancing by Leaps and Bounds


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    How high was the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s standing?


    Many cultivators believed that whatever the Dao Ancestor said was right. The one that could ever be wrong was themselves.


    Even Qin Yun subconsciously believed that the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s method of letting the Essence Soul be a sword was the best path. He tried to faithfully follow the footsteps of the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor but ended up falling flat on his face. Even after having failed, he did not know what he did wrong and continued pondering over the mistake in his Dharmic formulation.


    The two wolf demons'' conversation gave him a wake-up call. It jolted him to his senses!


    He had extricated himself from a proverbial cage!


    "The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s realm is extremely high and he did not cultivate it himself. He only used his incredible knowledge to infer and derive the sword immortal lineage''s Dharmic formulation." Qin Yun was a little excited. "As for me, I''m a mortal sword immortal. In terms of my Sword Dao, it''s comparable to some third Firmament Skyimmortals. When putting my knowledge against the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s, it''s like a firefly before a radiant moon! I actually dared to infer the Dharmic formulation that Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor inferred when there is such a huge difference between us?"


    "I should keep myself grounded."


    "I should push my advantages to the forefront. I should use the insights I gained from cultivating as a sword immortal to steer myself in the direction that best suits me before creating anything."


    "Emulating the path of others without their knowledge is no doubt a doomed end."


    Qin Yun was finally enlightened.


    When Daoists condensed an Essence Soul¡­ they typically condensed one in the shape of a human.


    Even demons also formed them in a humanoid shape. The Essence Soul ended up in the shape of a very tiny ''person.''


    This humanoid shape existed before the birth of humans! It stemmed from the legendary Pangu who created the world!


    To have the Essence Soul be a humanoid shape was an orthodox Daoist tradition! Be it the Grand Supreme, Primordial Beginning, or Numinous Treasure lineages, they were nearly all the same. Only a small number diverted from that framework by condensing non-humanoid Essence Souls. For instance, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s Essence Soul was a sword.


    "My original conjecture was that a perfected Golden Core combined with the foundational knowledge of sword intent, and the fusion of the soul¡­ would eventually produce an Essence Soul. Just like a mother gives birth to a child, the Golden Core is the Essence Soul''s child which can be nurtured into an Essence Soul."


    "According to my original idea, as the Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers are too sharp, nurturing it requires a sufficiently perfected Sword Dao. At the very least, it needs to form a Grotto-heaven by itself."


    "The three ideas I had previously¡­"


    "The first one is a little imbalanced from the looks of it."


    "Although the second one is harmonious, it is too harmonious, causing it to lose the sharpness of a sword immortal."


    "Only the third one¡­"


    Qin Yun was filled with inspiration. His realm was already a lot higher than when he attempted to condense an Essence Soul, so he was able to rapidly infer.


    He stood in his spot for a long while.


    Only when a drop of dew dripped down onto his face from a tree leaf above him did he jolt awake.


    "Ha." Qin Yun gave a self-mocking laugh. "How can the independent creation of an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation be that easy? It''s not something that can happen in a day or two! It''s best if my Sword Dao realm can increase even further. The higher my realm, the easier it will be to create. A beard lathered is half shaved!"


    "My joining of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion has been a wise choice. The Sword Dao manuals here are very complete and very diverse in nature. Even if I joined a top sect in the Effulgent Great World, it would probably not be comparable to this."


    ******


    Just three days later.


    Qin Yun issued a challenge through the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, sending it to the Grand Elder of the Dark Yin Gate, a major sect ranked fifth in the Skywolf world. Qin Yun selected him because he was most confident in his chances of dealing with him. Of course, victory could only be determined when they fought since all the Guardians were a force to be reckoned with.


    "Oh?"


    Patriarch Goldensnake sat high on his throne. The disciples surrounding him were mostly snake demons. None of them dared to utter a sound.


    With the challenge letter in hand, Patriarch Goldensnake read through it, his eyes cold. "The swordmaster of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, Qin Yun, is challenging me? And he''s a mortal sword immortal?"


    This enraged Patriarch Goldensnake but also made him turn wary.


    A mortal? He actually challenged a third Firmament Skydemon, a powerhouse ranked among the hundred and eight Guardians?


    But it was because he was a mortal that Patriarch Goldensnake felt even more concerned.


    "Patriarch, how should we answer the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion?" asked a black-robed disciple below him anxiously.


    "Supremacy has given the orders. It''s not easy for me to reject a normal challenge," said Patriarch Goldensnake softly. The hundred and eight Guardians were forged through bloody battles. If the challenger had equivalent strength, one had to accept the challenge! Of course, challenges from nobodies could be ignored but clearly, the swordmaster of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion¡­ had a different status. To achieve such a rank typically meant one was stronger than the average Skyimmortals and Skydemons.


    "He wants to challenge me? That will depend on him actually having the strength to do so," sneered Patriarch Goldensnake. "He has to pass the test of my Dark Yin Gate''s Elders first."


    "Which Elder will be dealing with Swordmaster Qin?" asked the black-robed disciple.


    "Investigate him first. Once information is gathered about his background, we will choose an Elder to fight him. If Qin Yun can be defeated or killed, that would naturally be for the best! Even if the Elder loses, I can also gain more knowledge about Qin Yun," instructed Patriarch Goldensnake stoically.


    "Yes."


    ¡­


    Dark Yin Gate responded two days after Qin Yun issued the challenge.


    "Our patriarch has made it clear." The person that came to pass the message was Patriarch Goldensnake''s black-robed disciple. When he came to Dao Seeking Sword Mansion and met Qin Yun, he remained arrogant. "Not just anyone deserves his attention. If Patriarch took every challenge he received, wouldn''t he be really busy? Patriarch has stated that if you wish to challenge him, you must first defeat our Dark Yin Gate Elder, Elder Kuiniu 1He is not ranked among the hundred and eight Guardians. If you defeat Elder Kuiniu, Patriarch will naturally accept your challenge."


    "That works." Qin Yun nodded.


    He did not find it odd in any way.


    If he were to become a Guardian, Dao Seeking Sword Mansion would also arrange for an Elder to intercept any challenger!


    A Guardian''s status in the Skywolf world was ultimately one of honor. They would not accept challenges so easily.


    "I wish to fight Elder Kuiniu as early as possible," said Qin Yun.


    "Elder Qiuniu suggested the fifth of next month. How about it, Swordmaster Qin?" said the black-robed disciple. "It can be pushed further back too."


    "Set it as the fifth then," said Qin Yun.


    "The old rules. We will be waiting for Swordmaster Qin at the Dark Yin Gate on the fifth of next month." The black-robed cupped his hands.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Following that, the black-robed disciple left.


    Soon after, Daoist Blackkill, as well as the other Skyimmortals and Skydemons, rushed over.


    "Brother Qin Yun, did an ambassador of the Dark Yin Gate come?" pressed Daoist Blackkill.


    "Yes, it has been decided. I''ll be fighting Elder Kuiniu at their Dark Yin Gate on the fifth next month. After defeating their Elder Kuiniu, that Patriarch Goldensnake will have to accept my challenge," said Qin Yun. All was going as it should. Since Elder Kuiniu was not ranked among the hundred and eight Guardians, it meant that his strength was indeed weaker than Patriarch Goldensnake.


    "That one-legged yak? He cultivates his body," said the rhinoceros demon beside immediately. "He''s quite a tough one."


    "How strong can the cultivation of his body be? If he was extremely strong, he would be a Guardian," said Qin Yun.


    "Daoist Brother Qin sure is confident," said the red-dressed woman with a smile.


    Qin Yun smiled faintly.


    In the recent days, cultivating the Sword Dao manuals in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s Sword Repository had made Qin Yun improve by leaps and bounds by the day.


    ¡­


    Days passed one after another.


    Qin Yun studied the various Sword Dao manuals daily, drawing on the wisdom of his predecessors.


    "The feeling of standing on the shoulders of giant is great."


    "So there''s such a powerful sword art."


    "Compared to this move, my Waning Waxing Moons''s unpredictability is far inferior."


    An itinerant cultivator was like an extremely hungry and thirsty traveler in the desert. If one had to create everything by themselves, an improvement was naturally arduous.


    Now?


    It was as though there was a welcoming rain after a drought!


    Many top manuals were available to him. Many of the manuals had been gathered by Yellow-robed Supremacy and handed to his good friend, Mansion Lord Chufu. Now, Qin Yun was rubbing off some of that goodwill.


    In just a month, Qin Yun felt that his improvement was extremely astonishing. His Dreamlike Sword had long been perfected several times over.


    Just like for ordinary mortals, books were important but so were masters! Although Qin Yun had yet to have a good master, he had obtained Sword Dao manuals that were considered superior in the Three Realms. His conditions were a hundred, or even a thousand times, better than before.


    "I feel that my Sword Dao has reached a bottleneck."


    That night, Qin Yun stood outside his cave abode by the mountainside. The mountain winds whistled as he felt his heart burning.


    "If not for these Sword Dao manuals, I''d have probably reached this bottleneck only after spending decades. Now, I have reached the bottleneck in the short time span of a month."


    "As long as I improve again, my Sword Dao and Dao domain will be able to reach a hundred and fifty kilometers."


    The Skyimmortal realm had nine Firmaments.


    Every three Firmaments represented a major sub-realm.


    The first three firmaments of the Skyimmortal realm had Dao domains of fifty kilometers. Even if one''s realm increased, there would not be any qualitative changes. It would cease around fifty kilometers.


    The second major sub-realm was a Dao domain with a hundred and fifty kilometers, matching that of a fourth to sixth firmament Skyimmortal.


    The third major sub-realm had a Dao domain of three hundred kilometers, corresponding to the seventh to ninth firmament Skyimmortals.


    The crossing of every major sub-realm was extremely difficult.


    As for becoming a Golden Immortal, one needed a Dao domain that reached five hundred kilometers!


    The size of one''s domain was only superficial. Instead, it symbolized one''s understanding of the Heavenly Dao, the observations of the myriad things in the world, karma and Samsara, as well as space-time¡­ Every improvement was very difficult.


    So when Qin Yun had reached a bottleneck, it meant making a breakthrough was not easy.


    Of course, Qin Yun''s cultivation speed was stunningly fast. At least, the early stages of the Skyimmortal realm did not stop him for long.

 440 Skydemon Kuiniu

    Chapter 440: Skydemon Kuiniu


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    That night, Qin Yun and Daoist Blackkill floated in midair, each sending their Dharma treasures at one another in a skirmish.


    "Black Void Kill." Daoist Blackkill''s voice was cold.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Black sword shadows spun like a bell, crashing down at Qin Yun from high in the sky.


    Qin Yun remained unfazed while he stood in midair. He already had his Cyclic Sword Flash around him, one formed by the hundred sword components disassembled from the Heavy Water Sword. After studying numerous Sword Dao manuals in the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, the Cyclic Sword Flash he conjured was truly like water. It swashed around in circulation, isolating both in and out! It was as though the barrier separated two different worlds.


    "Hahaha, Brother Qin Yun, your sword array sure is impregnable when it comes to defense," said Daoist Blackkill with a loud laugh.


    "Brother Blackkill, try this strike of mine too," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Waning Waxing Moons."


    A wisp of misty rain flew out of the void as it shot towards Daoist Blackkill.


    Daoist Blackkill also had six swords floating around him. They moved to block the misty rain''s assault.


    However, the wisp of misty rain was unfathomable. It kept attacking from every direction, frequently vanishing and appearing somewhere completely different.


    "Heaven Earth Six Escorts." Daoist Blackkill was filled with confidence as the six swords floating around him created a shielding formation, completely blocking out any attack.


    ¡­


    Both parties cast their sword moves, their defenses perfect and their attacks extremely ruthless.


    "Fiend Hawk Kill." Daoist Blackkill cast the last strike of his seven major killer blows. The divine swords that surrounded Qin Yun formed a massive male hawk phantom that swooped down with its sharp claws.


    Upon sensing the might of his opponent''s sword array, Qin Yun remained composed as usual. If this was before he had studied the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s manuals, he would''ve needed to use his Intrinsic Flying Sword to block the terrifying sword array attack. But now? Just the hundred sword components of the Heavy Water Sword were enough.


    "Traveling in Solitude." Qin Yun''s mind stirred.


    "Boom!"


    The hardly discernible wisp of misty rain suddenly transformed into a glaring sword flash. In that instant, it was the most eye-catching thing in the world! That one strike¡­ was enough to repress the earth itself! That one strike similarly had the might to render the world asunder! Now, Qin Yun''s strike had been elevated to a brand new level. When it blasted out, the entire space began trembling and tearing apart.


    "Boom!"


    When the magnificent sword beam cleaved at Daoist Blackkill''s protective sword array, his expression changed drastically. His entire sword array quivered and began dissipating. Immediately, threads flew out from Daoist Blackkill''s clothes and lingered around him.


    "Return!" Qin Yun immediately retracted his Intrinsic Flying Sword when he cracked the sword array.


    Daoist Blackkill heaved a sigh of relief and waved his hand. The black swords in the distance rapidly flew back.


    "Brother Qin, your flying sword is indeed powerful, much stronger than mine. I''m impressed," said Daoist Blackkill with a smile.


    "It''s only a sparring of sword arts and not a life-and-death battle. If we were really fighting for our lives, it''s hard to say what the outcome would be," said Qin Yun. He could tell that Daoist Blackkill, who was a Skyimmortal, likely had other powerful Numinous treasures.


    "The sword array art that I''m most proud of isn''t even your match. If we really fight with our lives, I might only be able to flee for my life," said Daoist Blackkill with a laugh. "With your strength, I believe you can defeat that Kuiniu tomorrow."


    "And compared to Patriarch Goldensnake?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "I''m not a Guardian myself." Daoist Blackkill laughed. "Patriarch Goldensnake is naturally stronger than me! But from my point of view, Brother Qin Yun, you definitely have some hope of winning."


    Qin Yun smiled when he heard that.


    Swoosh.


    They quickly landed on the peak of the mountain.


    As he looked into the starry night sky, Qin Yun could not help but think about his daughter as he looked in the direction of the Skywolf continent.


    "Daughter, I will defeat that Skydemon Kuiniu tomorrow. Following that, I will defeat Patriarch Goldensnake to become a Guardian. When that happens, I can head to the Skywolf continent to find you," said Qin Yun silently. "Wait a little longer. I will soon be there."


    "Brother Qin Yun, why do I have a feeling that you always have something weighing on your mind?" Daoist Blackkill landed at his side. "With your strength, you should be very confident about tomorrow''s battle, right?"


    "Something weighing on my mind?" Qin Yun said casually, "I don''t have confidence in facing Patriarch Goldensnake after all."


    "If you lose, all you need to do is survive and you can challenge other Guardians. With your strength and talent, you just need to spend more time training. I believe you will definitely become a Guardian one day," consoled Daoist Blackkill.


    "Spend more time?" Qin Yun did not speak further.


    Wasting more time was the one thing he didn''t want to do. The earlier he rescued his daughter, the better. He was afraid any delay would lead to unforeseen tragedy.


    ******


    The next day.


    Dark Yin Gate.


    As one of the top five sects in the Skywolf world, they had more than a hundred Skyimmortals and Skydemons. Dark Yin Gate Lord was also one of the twenty-nine Combat Generals under Yellow-robed Supremacy. Patriarch Goldensnake was the Dark Yin Gate''s Grand Elder and held a very prestigious position.


    One of the three swordmasters of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, Swordmaster Qin, had challenged Patriarch Goldensnake. In response, the Dark Yin Gate had arranged for Elder Kuiniu to fend him off first. It became an important matter between the two sects.


    Hum!


    The array formation had long been activated that day in Dark Yin Gate. It stirred the surroundings.


    Large numbers of disciples were sent to patrol the area early on.


    "Senior Brother, what happened? Why does it feel like something is amiss in the sect?" A human disciple that had just come out of seclusion found that the rules in the sect were a lot more stringent.


    "Something huge happened!" A boar demon whispered to his side. "I heard that one of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s three swordmasters, Swordmaster Qin from the North Plains continent, has challenged our Grand Elder! Elder Kuiniu is responsible for answering his challenge first. If he fails, our Grand Elder will have to personally fight this swordmaster."


    "The Grand Elder has been challenged?" The human disciple was alarmed.


    "Whoosh."


    There was a commotion into the distance.


    "We should go. I believe the people from the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion are here. This battle is not to be missed," said the boar demon immediately.


    "Let''s go!" The human disciple flew over as well.


    They flew with a large bunch of disciples and, from afar, they saw a majestic warship slowly flying over from a great distance away.


    Standing on the warship''s bow were a few Skyimmortals and Skydemons. Their auras were either domineering or cold, and circled by them was a man dressed in linen clothes. His hair was let loose, his gaze focused. His aura was very ordinary and it seemed to be that of a mortal''s.


    A mortal man?


    A few Skyimmortals and Skydemons were circling a moral man?


    "A mortal?"


    "Am I seeing wrong? The mortal appears to be of the highest standing there?" Many of the Dark Yin Gate disciples discussed in secret.


    The warship gradually descended.


    On the Dark Yin Gate''s side, there was a similar group of Skyimmortals and Skydemons that flew over to receive them. They similarly flaunted their auras. The Dark Yin Gate had arranged for more than thirty Skyimmortals and Skydemons, a number far greater than the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s group. They clearly appeared more powerful as a result.


    "Fellow Daoists from the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," greeted a pangolin elder with a smile. "We have been waiting for a long time. I believe this person in the middle is Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s Swordmaster Qin, am I right? Swordmaster Qin sure is impressive to rank as swordmaster with a mortal''s body. I heard that Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s selection of swordmasters only tests one''s skill in the Sword Dao, and not Dharmic powers or Dharma treasures¡­ Swordmaster Qin, your battle with our Elder Kuiniu will be a life-and-death battle. It''s a contest of true strength and not simply tricks."


    "Pangolin, cut the crap. Battles are fought not said with your mouth. Quickly lead the way." The rhinoceros demon beside Qin Yun''s voice boomed like thunder as he shouted.


    "Fine, since you wish to seek death, we will not stop you." The pangolin elder curled his mouth. "Follow me."


    Many of the Skyimmortals and Skydemons from the Dark Yin Gate held similar animosity against them.


    After all, Qin Yun was challenging Patriarch Goldensnake¡­ If he were to topple their Elder, he would be taking over his position as Guardian.


    Both parties headed inside Dark Yin Gate.


    Many ordinary Dark Yin Gate disciples followed from a distance behind to watch the battle. The Dark Yin Gate had many more disciples than the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. After all, it was considered a large sect, not like the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion that only focused on the Sword Dao.


    "A mortal man wants to challenge our Grand Elder?"


    "This mortal must have an extraordinary background for him to become the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s swordmaster. He might be some important figure''s reincarnation."


    The Dark Yin Gate disciples quickly rushed over as they discussed, waiting in anticipation for the battle to begin.


    The battle was to be held in midair.


    That would allow Qin Yun and Skydemon Kuiniu to engage in battle easily.


    "Are you the new swordmaster of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, Qin Yun?" Kuiniu had long been waiting. He had an ox head and a human''s body but he did not have any ox horns on his head. He was about ten feet tall and his skin was of a grayish color. There were lightning patterns on his skin that occasionally flashed. His pair of ox eyes also had an eye-catching white light, as blinding as the sun.


    Kuiniu had an extraordinary bloodline to begin with and he was innately good at controlling lightning.


    After cultivating to the stage of Skydemon, his strength was naturally impressive. The Dark Yin Gate was very confident in him, which is why they sent him to battle Qin Yun.


    "Greetings, Elder Kuiniu," greeted Qin Yun politely.


    "In a while, if I can show you mercy, I will spare your life. But don''t blame me if I ground you to mush with my hammers because the battle gets too intense." As Kuiniu spoke, he took a step forward. In midair, he extended his arms, each holding a massive hammer. Boom! Boom! Boom! Terrifying aura blasted out as it seemed to trigger the world''s lightning. Numerous bolts of lightning descended and struck Kuiniu''s body, yet he seemed extremely comfortable in the storm.


    "Come, fight me!" Kuiniu shouted to the ground.


    "Be careful!"


    Following that, the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s rhinoceros demon and Fairy Jun turned austere. The red-dressed Fairy Jun sent a voice transmission as a reminder, "Make sure not to engage in melee combat."


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded slightly. Without a word, he took a step forward and flew into the sky.

 441 Too Quick a Loss

    Chapter 441: Too Quick a Loss


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun stood in midair facing the distant Kuiniu.


    Kuiniu held a large hammer in each hand as an azure-colored armor rapidly materialized over his body. Even a helm manifested to cover his head, giving him full protection.


    "Numinous treasure armor?" Qin Yun''s brows pricked up.


    "Qin Yun, watch your front!" Kuiniu roared as he suddenly struck his two hammers together.


    The instant the two hammers collided, a golden lightning flashed.


    The golden lightning bolts surged towards the distant Qin Yun. A large amount of lightning descended from the sky to meet the golden bolt, enhancing its might. This terrifying lightning left many of the Dark Yin Gate disciples watching below stifled.


    "How terrifying!"


    "As expected of Elder Kuiniu. If this lightning were to brush past us, we would probably be reduced to ashes."


    "Let''s see how the mortal swordmaster from the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion will fare against it."


    Many such thoughts surfaced in the minds of the Dark Yin Gate disciples. They were also swelling with pride because their Elder was so strong.


    As for Qin Yun, he remained very calm while standing in midair. With a whoosh, more than a hundred sword artifacts appeared around him, naturally forming the Cyclic Sword Flash! The Cyclic Sword Flash had the appearance of water, with a clear barrier separating inside and outside. When the golden lightning¡ªtogether with the various lightning bolts¡ª struck, the Cyclic Sword Flash easily held its own. Although the lightning aggressively struck outside the Cyclic Sword Flash, there was only calm inside, without so much as a breeze.


    Qin Yun even glanced down.


    Among the gathered Dark Yin Gate Skyimmortals and Skydemons, a golden-robed elder had appeared. His hair was tied up and pinned with a wooden snake hairpin. His head was raised as well, his eyes meeting Qin Yun''s.


    "Patriarch Goldensnake." Qin Yun instantly recognized him. Patriarch Goldensnake had not appeared when he was being received but now that he was fighting Kuiniu, he had silently arrived to watch the battle.


    "Elder Kuiniu, you should be careful too." Qin Yun did not bother with Patriarch Goldensnake any further. As he spoke, he waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip and rapidly flew through the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    "Oh?"


    The dual-hammer wielding Kuiniu braced himself in midair.


    When the Misty Rain Sword appeared in midair, the surrounding area froze. Frost hung in the air while ice crystals scattered. Although Kuiniu was dressed in full-body armor, he still felt a chill! Crystals began forming in his blood vessels and organs as a layer of frost started covering his body. Kuiniu''s armor''s halo circulated, shattering the ice.


    Despite his lightning Dharmic powers working at full force to prevent the formation of ice crystals both inside and outside his body, he remained adversely affected.


    Next was the Dreamlike Sword''s Bright Moon Cold Nights.


    With Qin Yun''s realm constantly increasing, Bright Moon Cold Nights had also turned even more powerful. This strike could now freeze the void, as well as everything within. It made them still. With all activity stilled, frost was naturally born.


    "What a potent frost domain." Kuiniu was alarmed. "Even with my body, he managed to halve my speed. The decrease in strength has only turned more obvious."


    He suddenly roared angrily.


    As he roared, he streaked across the sky towards Qin Yun in a bid to engage him in close combat.


    And in midair, the Misty Rain Sword instantly switched moves after casting Bright Moon Cold Nights to freeze the surroundings. It was now a burning meteor.


    "Sou!"


    Dreamlike Sword''s Stars Like Rain!


    The fastest and sharpest strike!


    Just as Kuiniu had taken the initiative to charge at Qin Yun, the flying sword nearly instantly appeared in front of him with its change of moves. Kuiniu was still feeling the effects of the large number of ice crystals in his veins. Although he brandished his hammers to block, he was unable to stop the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Bam!"


    The meteor-like Misty Rain Sword stabbed Kuiniu''s helm.


    The helm was majorly dented and was even sent flying under the tremendous force. It revealed Kuiniu''s alarmed ''ox head.'' Wind ruffled his fur.


    "What? The Numinous treasure armor was utterly smashed with one strike?" Kuiniu was alarmed. "Although it''s an inferior-grade Numinous treasure armor, he broke its defenses in one strike? Even the helm is damaged."


    "The might of that strike¡­"


    Many of the Dark Yin Gate Skyimmortals and Skydemons watching from below felt their hearts tighten. As for Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s rhinoceros demon, Fairy Jun, and others, they revealed looks of joy.


    Patriarch Goldensnake''s expression changed slightly. "For this strike to possess such strength, his flying sword is something else. How did a mortal cultivate his flying sword to such potency? Is he some reincarnated sword immortal from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage?"


    He was one of the hundred and eight Guardians under Yellow-robed Supremacy. He was naturally knowledgeable and knew of the famous Grand Supreme sword immortals.


    "What a pity."


    "My sharpest strike can''t even tear through an inferior-grade Numinous treasure armor," Qin Yun thought secretly. "My Dharmic powers are still just too weak. If my Dharmic powers can match those of ordinary Skyimmortals, I should be able to fight above my level and match a fourth or fifth firmament Skyimmortal."


    Sword immortals were capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They were famous for fighting above their levels.


    With the same Dharmic powers and realm, sword immortals had strength a level higher when they used their Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    For those who cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulations, their life-preservation physical abilities were ludicrously strong. Many of the famous combat generals in the Three Realms, including Yellow-robed Supremacy, cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage. Others might deal ten blows to them and only produce a few sparks. But one strike from them¡ªa successful one¡ªcould reduce the pitiful opponent to mush.


    Sword immortals and Physical Establishing Sages¡­ all belonged to extremely powerful schools of thought in the Three Realms but it was extremely difficult to cultivate in them.


    As such, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage was an extremely small group.


    Although the Physical Establishing Sage lineage spread throughout the Three Realms, it was extremely rare to encounter one who cultivated it to an extremely high realm.


    As for the more common schools of thought such as talisman amulets and Dharma treasures, the numbers were enormous.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s one strike left Kuiniu alarmed.


    However, the flying sword was too fast!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword that had joined the ranks of a Numinous treasure moved much faster than Kuiniu could brandish his hammers. It was much agiler too. These were the advantages of a flying sword.


    "Bam!"


    Another strike.


    As the ice crystals in his body started to melt away, Kuiniu barely managed to ''touch'' Qin Yun''s flying sword by swinging his hammers, and that was more a credit to the hammers'' big size.


    But the moment contact was made, the tremendous momentum sent Kuiniu''s hammer to the side.


    "Bam!"


    The third strike followed. Kuiniu''s luck had run out.


    "Bam!"


    Like a burning meteor, the sword tore through Kuiniu''s head, stabbing a huge hole in it, before flying out the back of his head.


    The scene made many of the Skyimmortals and Skydemons below tense up. Some of them closed their eyes, unwilling to watch any longer.


    "I, I¡­" The huge hole at Kuiniu''s glabella, area between the brows rapidly healed at a discernible pace. His lips trembled as he looked at the burning meteor. He hurriedly shouted, "I admit defeat!"


    His voice boomed.


    "Swoosh!"


    The Misty Rain Sword had already arrived in front of him but followed another trajectory to avoid Kuiniu. It circled and flew back into Qin Yun''s hands.


    Qin Yun extended his hand and put away the Intrinsic Flying Sword. He remained calm and composed.


    Yet he was somewhat astonished inwardly. "My Sword Dao has improved tremendously in recent days. I was planning on testing the might of the sharpest strike, Stars Like Rain. I never expected it to damage an inferior-grade Numinous treasure armor with one strike, causing the armor to disintegrate. I didn''t even need to utilize my killer blow, First Lightning Encounter, as I had planned to do."


    The Dreamlike Sword''s seven moves each represented something different.


    But their realms were very similar as well.


    First Lightning Encounter and Stars Like Rain were two complete extremes.


    One of them converged all its might, appearing extremely gentle. It could transmit its might into an enemy''s body directly, leaving any armor worn on the surface useless.


    The other was extremely fast and sharp.


    And dressed in a Numinous treasure armor, Kuiniu''s exterior defenses were indeed much stronger, but his organs did not enjoy that elevation in strength. First Lightning Encounter was the best move to counter him! Who knew that Qin Yun''s test of his Stars Like Rain would earn him victory before he had to go that far?


    "Hahaha¡­ He has admitted defeat. Elder Kuiniu has admitted defeat." Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s rhinoceros demon laughed out loud. Beside him, Fairy Jun and company revealed looks of joy.


    Many disciples from the Dark Yin Gate were in disbelief.


    The battle had been lost too quickly.


    Kuiniu cupped his hands in midair. "Swordmaster Qin is indeed powerful. I, Kuiniu, fully acknowledge my loss." With that said, he flew towards the ground, leaving Qin Yun alone in midair.


    Qin Yun looked down at the golden-robed elder among all the Skyimmortals and Skydemons of the Dark Yin Gate.


    "Daoist Goldensnake," said Qin Yun, his voice resonating through the world. "Kuiniu has lost. It''s your turn to fight me next."


    Qin Yun looked at Patriarch Goldensnake beneath him.


    Goldensnake narrowed his eyes, his gaze truly as cold as a snake''s. They were staring at Qin Yun.

 442 Defeating Goldensnake Next!

    Chapter 442: Defeating Goldensnake Next!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The battle had been lost too quickly.


    All Goldensnake could see was Qin Yun release a few moves, but one thing was certain. "This Qin Yun will be a tricky opponent!"


    "You did just finish a battle. I will not take advantage of you." Patriarch Goldensnake said with a cold tone from the ground. It left anyone who heard him feeling a chill in their hearts. "In three days, you and I shall fight it out here. How about that?"


    Everyone present turned agitated.


    A battle with the position of Guardian at stake? With a battle of this level, news would spread throughout the Skywolf world and even to the hundred plus Small Worlds in the vicinity.


    "There is no need to wait three days." Qin Yun looked down from high in the sky. His eyes were filled with keen fighting spirit. "I only used a few moves in my previous battle. I did not even expend much of my Dharmic powers. Let''s make it quick and battle now to determine the victor."


    "Battle now?" Patriarch Goldensnake frowned slightly as he said coldly, "Aren''t you in too much of a hurry?"


    Qin Yun''s strength had exceeded his expectations. He needed time to strategize.


    But for Qin Yun¡­


    It was naturally better if the battle happened earlier! It would expedite his search for his daughter.


    "Haha." Qin Yun laughed. "Our battle is inevitable. Dragging it out another three days is a waste of both our time, or could it be¡­ that you are afraid? Is that why you want three days to prepare?"


    "Afraid?" Patriarch Goldensnake''s eyes were filled with ferocity.


    The surrounding Dark Yin Gate Skyimmortals and Skydemons were somewhat incensed when they heard that.


    Patriarch Goldensnake said with a sneer, "Punk, eight people have challenged me for my position as Guardian over the years. Only three survived, while the rest met a decisive death. Since you are in such a hurry to seek death, I''ll naturally satisfy you."


    He had held the position of Guardian for a long time, after all. After he became Guardian, he obtained some of the Three Realms'' top Dharma spells from Yellow-robed Supremacy, allowing him to grow in strength. Yet Qin Yun was deliberately provoking him? He naturally would not cower in retreat. Furthermore, Qin Yun had only delivered a few strikes in the previous battle. Those moves were probably only the tip of the iceberg. Even if he took three days to strategize, it would not be that helpful.


    "Daoist Goldensnake sure is confident." Qin Yun laughed.


    "Sou!"


    Patriarch Goldensnake flicked his sleeve and immediately charged into the sky. Soon he was flying in the air and facing Qin Yun from a distance.


    "Are they going to fight just like that?" The Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s rhinoceros demon was somewhat alarmed.


    "Is Daoist Brother Qin Yun really that eager?" Fairy Jun was also somewhat astonished.


    "Daoist Brother Qin Yun should be very confident. For him to so easily defeat Kuiniu, I believe he has a chance of defeating Goldensnake."


    "But Goldensnake is still a Guardian, not someone the likes of Kuiniu can compare to."


    All of them were discussing.


    Similarly, the Dark Yin Gate was in a furor. They were discussing more secretly, feeling extremely nervous about the impending battle! Who would clinch victory between their Grand Elder and Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s Swordmaster Qin Yun? They were very confident with their Grand Elder in the beginning but after Qin Yun''s quick disposal of Elder Kuiniu, they began to feel their hearts tighten.


    "Hum¨C"


    An array formation enveloped them, protecting the spectators. The stray blasts from the battling duo would be extremely powerful. Just a slight brush or contact would cause even Essence Soul disciples to lose their lives.


    "Hmph!" Patriarch Goldensnake sneered. "For a mortal sword immortal like you to be this powerful, are you a reincarnated Grand Supreme sword immortal?"


    "No." Qin Yun denied.


    "No matter who you are or what background you have," Patriarch Goldensnake''s voice reached straight into Qin Yun''s ear as he floated in midair. "I, as a Guardian under Supremacy, have cultivated in top Dharmic formulations from all over the Three Realms. I''m not someone to be underestimated. Why don''t you sample one of my Dharma spells?"


    Patriarch Goldensnake flicked his sleeve.


    Swoosh.


    Immediately, a wind whipped up that brought with it countless bits of golden sand. The wind resembled blades that sliced the void, tearing open countless rifts. The golden sand was even sharper and indomitable.


    Nearly instantly, the wind reached Qin Yun.


    "Wind of the Golden Sand?" Qin Yun had long gathered information on Patriarch Goldensnake. He knew his most powerful attacks, and the strike that he was facing now was called Wind of the Golden Sand.


    With a thought, Qin Yun commanded the Numinous treasure Heavy Water Sword to disassemble into more than a hundred sword components, conjuring the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    It encompassed a region of a thousand feet.


    The wind inundated the Cyclic Sword Flash. And amid the wind, the golden sand unleashed its barrage of attacks. However, the Cyclic Sword Flash held up.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Thirteen black bone needles flew out from the hazy golden sand wind.


    Each black bone needle was an inferior-grade Numinous treasure on its own. Together, they became a powerful superior-grade Numinous treasure set!


    "Using the golden sand wind''s might as a cover, this set of black bone needles can form a massive array. It is Patriarch Goldensnake''s most famous array, the Black Bone Killing Array!" thought Qin Yun. "According to my intelligence, if one can withstand the array for a short period of time, there is a chance of fighting Patriarch Goldensnake directly. If one cannot withstand it, it''s best to admit defeat before death."


    Defeating Patriarch Goldensnake was not something one could do in two or three strikes.


    Therefore, self-preservation was the most important thing! Only after surviving was one qualified to fight their opponent.


    "This Wind of the Golden Sand gets stronger as time goes by. The killing array''s might will also increase. I have to end this as soon as possible," thought Qin Yun.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    After the thirteen black bone needles interfaced with the array''s might, they appeared to be one entity.


    They manifested as a giant hammer that struck at the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    The Cyclic Sword Flash remained aqueous, with light shimmering on its surface. Although the strike did make it tremble, it managed to dissipate the impact.


    "Oh?" When the distant Patriarch Goldensnake saw this, his expression changed slightly. "For him to withstand my Black Bone Killing Array, this Qin Yun''s life-preservation sword array is truly formidable! Wind of the Golden Sand¡­ Spin!"


    He began casting his Dharma spells.


    The wind increased in intensity as it blew. Powered by his Dharmic powers, the Wind of the Golden Sand would constantly increase in strength with time, reaching the limits of what he was capable of.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy had bestowed him with this Dharma spell, one that was more suitable for him than any other.


    The Black Bone Needles could also use the Wind of the Golden Sand''s might to form a killing array. The stronger the golden sand wind, the stronger the killing array.


    "How about you take a strike of mine!" Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain flew out of the Cyclic Sword Flash, penetrating the Wind of the Golden Sand in its journey towards Patriarch Goldensnake.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    There was wind everywhere.


    The Wind of the Golden Sand was whistling around Patriarch Goldensnake as well. It affected the Misty Rain Sword''s might as well.


    "Kill!"


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a burning meteor.


    Dreamlike Sword''s Stars Like Rain!


    The sharpest and fastest strike of the Dreamlike Sword went straight for Patriarch Goldensnake.


    "Oh?"


    Patriarch Goldensnake stood in midair as he grunted coldly. He extended his hands as a gold and silver bangle flew out from each arm.


    These two bangles floated to the left and right of Patriarch Goldensnake.


    When the meteor-like Misty Rain Sword attacked¡ª


    Sou! Sou!


    The two bangles went forward.


    While flying, they produced a faint resonating hum. Although the Misty Rain Sword dodged them and continued its trajectory towards Patriarch Goldensnake, it felt a formless obstruction, causing its direction and speed to be hindered. The two bangles moved extremely quickly as well. They took the opportunity to enlarge in size as they struck the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Bam!"


    The collision resulted in the silver bangle being sent flying backward but the gold bangle remained firm. As such, the Misty Rain Sword lost all its momentum.


    "Patriarch Goldensnake''s most shocking move is his Black Bone Killing Array. And for him to hold his position as Guardian firmly, his life-preservation means must also be very impressive. He has the gold and silver bangles, a Numinous treasure Dharma robe, and he also cultivates his body on the side." Qin Yun was well aware of this. "Among the hundred and eight Guardians, his strengths are quite balanced and yet also relatively mediocre! Then again, no matter how mediocre he is, that''s only relative to the other Guardians. Defeating him¡­ will not be an easy task."


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    In midair, the Misty Rain Sword attacked again and again in unpredictable fashion. As for the gold and silver bangles, they repeatedly moved to block it.


    "I have to use the Cosmic Bangles." Qin Yun waved his hand. Instantly, six black bangles appeared by his left wrist. They flew out of the Cyclic Sword Flash and went straight for the distant Patriarch Goldensnake.


    For Qin Yun, using both of his inferior-grade Numinous treasures¡ªthe Heavy Water Sword and Cosmic Bangles¡ªtogether with his Intrinsic Flying Sword was nearly the limit of what he could bear.


    "Oh?" Patriarch Goldensnake''s expression changed slightly when he saw the six bangles flying at him rapidly.


    The gold and silver bangles floated to his side and expanded. Furthermore, they constantly spun around.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword and the six Cosmic Bangles attacked simultaneously!


    When they approached, they were hindered by the invisible forcefield. Besides, the enlarged gold and silver bangles each swept towards two opposite ends, simultaneously obstructing the Misty Rain Sword and the six Cosmic Bangles.


    "They won''t succeed." Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a glimmer.


    Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!


    The six Cosmic Bangles could not dodge, and instead took the initiative to clash with the two bangles. With Qin Yun''s present understanding of the Heavenly Cycles, the might the Cosmic Bangles produced had been similarly elevated. As the repeated assaults continued, the two bangles began to falter.


    The Misty Rain Sword took this opportunity to weave around and continue its attack on Patriarch Goldensnake.


    "Scram!" Patriarch Goldensnake''s right hand was covered in snake scales as his lower body transformed into a long coiled tail. He held a whip in one hand, flailing it before he lashed it out.


    His skill in whips was sufficiently brilliant. With his sudden lash, he was able to outmaneuver the Misty Rain Sword and smack it.


    "Whew!"


    The Misty Rain Sword flew around and attacked once again. This time Qin Yun used all his strength, and the flying sword became a lot agiler than the whip, resulting in a successful dodge.


    As for Patriarch Goldensnake, his robe rapidly lengthened into a massive cloth screen.


    "Puah!"


    The meteor-like flying sword stabbed into Patriarch Goldensnake''s robe, making it depress slightly. The remaining shock waves reached straight into Patriarch Goldensnake''s body but he twisted himself, dissipating the wave easily.


    "Puah! Puah! Puah!"


    The flying sword repeated its barrage of attacks.


    Although Patriarch Goldensnake was controlling the gold and silver bangles, as well as brandishing his whip, The Cosmic Bangles; hindrance eventually wore him down so that he failed to fend off Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    The repeated attacks had failed to bear fruit against Patriarch Goldensnake.


    "Pfft!"


    The flying sword finally stabbed its target, but the Numinous treasure robe raised once again over Patriarch Goldensnake''s body.


    This strike was extremely gentle like a breezy cloud, one that resembled a spring wind, a touch from a lover.


    The Dreamlike Sword''s First Lightning Encounter.


    The might was converged to the extreme.


    But when this strike stabbed into the Numinous treasure robe, the terrifying might permeated through it and went right into Patriarch Goldensnake''s body.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" The terrifying forces overwhelmed his body as Patriarch Goldensnake''s organs began to rupture. Even some of his flesh and blood began to show signs of damage. He could not help but spew a mouthful of blood, and was surprised to see pieces of his organs as well. His eyes were filled with alarm.


    Although he had cultivated his body on the side, he was still a third Firmament Skydemon. He didn''t have a strong body like Elder Kuiniu, who had focused on cultivating his body.


    The First Lightning Encounter had ignored the Numinous treasure Dharma robe, grievously injuring Patriarch Goldensnake.


    "Just another two or three of those and I''m dead." Patriarch Goldensnake knew that.


    "I admit defeat!"


    Although he was unwilling, Patriarch Goldensnake shouted out without hesitation, his voice reverberating through the area.


    He astonished the two factions watching below.


    Qin Yun felt relieved after hearing that as he smiled.


    He had succeeded!


    He had defeated Patriarch Goldensnake to become Guardian! He could now head to the Skywolf continent to seek his daughter.


    "Daughter, wait for me. I''ll find you soon." Qin Yun was feeling excited and full of anticipation.

 443 No Way Ou

    Chapter 443: No Way Out


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Patriarch Goldensnake put away his Dharma treasures, his face still pale. Qin Yun''s First Lightning Encounter had indeed left him grievously injured.


    "Where''s the Guardian Talisman?" Qin Yun looked at Patriarch Goldensnake eagerly.


    "Goldensnake," said the spectating rhinoceros demon with a loud laugh. "Supremacy monitors the entire Skywolf world. No action can fool him. You have lost this match and Supremacy already knows this. It''s best you hand over the Guardian Talisman quickly."


    "Don''t worry. Since I admitted defeat, I''ll naturally hand it over." Patriarch Goldensnake flipped his hand as a golden talisman floated above his palm. He was unwilling to part with it.


    It represented status and was the key to all sorts of benefits. Yellow-robed Supremacy was very willing to spend his resources on his subordinates, after all.


    "Here." Patriarch Goldensnake waved his hand, sending the golden talisman at Qin Yun.


    At that moment¡ª


    People from the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion and Dark Yin Gate stared at the golden talisman with burning eyes. This talisman represented status and benefits. All the Skyimmortals and Skydemons in the Skywolf world would go crazy for it.


    Qin Yun reached out his hand and grabbed the golden talisman.


    It was a thin, golden piece of paper with inscriptions on it. Qin Yun infused it with his Dharmic powers, easily gaining control of the talisman.


    Silently¡­ the Guardian Talisman melted into Qin Yun''s palm.


    "I''ve finally obtained it." Qin Yun felt an upsurge of emotions. After refining the Guardian Talisman, he would truly become a Guardian.


    Of course, becoming one of the hundred and eight Guardians¡­


    The true reason for this was that Qin Yun wanted to rescue his daughter.


    "Daoist Goldensnake sure is forthright," said Qin Yun. "We shall not stay any longer. Goodbye."


    Patriarch Goldensnake only wore a cold expression and did not say another word.


    He was still wallowing in the sorrow of losing his position as Guardian. What else was there to say?


    "Daoist Brother Qin Yun, how impressive! You defeated that golden snake."


    "Daoist Brother Qin Yun, congratulations on becoming a Guardian." The crowd from Dao Seeking Sword Mansion flew up, all of them looking delighted.


    Soon after, Qin Yun and the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion entourage returned on their warship.


    The Dark Yin Gate could only feel somewhat aggrieved.


    ******


    The moment they returned to Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, a celebratory banquet was held.


    Moments after the banquet ended, Qin Yun bade farewell to Daoist Blackkill, Fairy Jun, and company.


    "Qin Yun, you just became Guardian. I know you are in a rush to head to the Skywolf continent but can''t it wait a day?" Daoist Blackkill felt exasperated.


    "There''s nothing for me to do in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. It''s better I head there early," replied Qin Yun.


    It was already polite enough that he patiently returned to celebrate the banquet.


    "The Combat Generals under Supremacy typically reside in the Skywolf continent," said Daoist Blackkill. "As for Guardians, they are a level lower after all. Although they frequently head to the Skywolf continent, they spend most of their time in their own sects. Brother Qin Yun, with your impressive strength, I believe your strength will make another dramatic breakthrough once you meet Supremacy and he bestows you with a powerful Dharmic formulation. When you return to Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, make sure to give us some pointers."


    "We shall spar again when the time comes." Qin Yun swept his surroundings. "Everyone, I bid you farewell."


    "Bon voyage."


    Fairy Jun, the rhinoceros demon, and company were all somewhat envious.


    Following that, Qin Yun transformed into a beam of light and streaked across the sky, vanishing across the horizon.


    "This Daoist Brother Qin Yun only joined our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion for a month before heading to the Skywolf continent to meet Supremacy. He came fast and left fast," said a golden-horned demon to the side with a sigh. "From the looks of it, he only came to us in order to gain the status of swordmaster to challenge a Guardian."


    "Yes." A fat man beside him nodded. "That is likely the case. Daoist Brother Qin Yun''s strength is unfathomable but he''s only mortal? Clearly, he has mysterious origins. It does seem like he came to our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion in order to gain the status of swordmaster."


    "There''s no need to fret over that." The red-dressed woman said, "Since he joined our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion, he''s naturally one of us! If he ever did betray the sect, Mansion Lord and Supremacy would not spare him."


    "Sister Jun is right. Regardless of his origins, he is still a swordmaster of our Dao Seeking Sword Mansion," said the rhinoceros demon with a smile.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun flew all the way.


    The Skywolf world was a Small World after all. It did not take long for him to arrive at the boundary of the Skywolf continent.


    There was fog that spread out endlessly!


    "Legends say that the fog hides the Skywolf continent," thought Qin Yun. "Without Supremacy''s permission, even heavenly troops from the Heavenly Courts will not be able to charge in. Now that I have become a Guardian, I can easily enter."


    Sou!


    He flew straight into the fog.


    Once he was in the fog, Qin Yun could sense that it was formed by terrifying array formations. Just sensing the array''s strength gave his heart slight palpitations.


    "What a terrifying array formation. It''s the most horrifying array formation I have sensed in all my years of practicing martial arts. It''s worse than the array formation that enveloped the Ancient Augury World. As expected of Yellow-robed Supremacy!" thought Qin Yun.


    Yet Qin Yun passed through the clouds unhindered for several kilometers before it turned clear.


    Ahead of him was a vast continent! There were long stretches of mountains with roaring rivers. There were also horses galloping.


    "The Skywolf continent, the place where Yellow-robed Supremacy and his followers recluse themselves in cultivation." Qin Yun took in the land. "And my daughter is likely here in the Skywolf continent."


    "Daughter, I''ll find you very soon." Qin Yun turned even more eager.


    "Hahaha¡­ Brother Qin Yun."


    A sound boomed.


    From a distant spot in the sky, a thin man appeared in front of him with a flash. He had a sword on his back, his eyes as sharp as swords yet there was an uninhibited pride in between his brows.


    "I have been waiting for your arrival ever since I saw you defeat that golden snake." The lanky man said with a laugh when he arrived in front of Qin Yun.


    "Greetings, Mansion Lord." Qin Yun had seen the projection of Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s Mansion Lord Chufu before. He immediately bowed.


    "We are brothers, and you are a swordmaster of my Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. There''s no need for these formalities," said Chufu with a frown.


    Qin Yun smiled and immediately corrected himself. "Greetings Brother Chufu."


    "That''s more like it." Chufu laughed. "Let''s go. Follow me, I have quite a few old friends who want to meet you."


    "Alright." Qin Yun followed Chufu as they transformed into streams of light that flew across the sky.


    "I watched as you became a swordmaster of the Dao Seeking Sword Mansion and when you defeated Kuiniu and Goldensnake." There was a blurry stream of light around them as Chufu spoke to Qin Yun with a smile.


    "You saw all of it?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    Chufu explained, "The outside world cannot probe the situation inside the Skywolf continent but we can monitor the outside world. Therefore, we know of everything that happens inside Dao Seeking Sword Mansion or any other major event in the world."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    Although he had arrived in the Skywolf world through a spatial rift, cultivators from more than a hundred neighboring worlds came here as well. It was not something out of the ordinary.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    They flew all the way.


    Qin Yun was constantly probing his surroundings. "As long as she''s within fifty kilometers of me, I should be able to sense my daughter at my present realm."


    Unfortunately, Qin Yun did not sense his daughter even when he arrived at Yellow-robed Supremacy''s palace.


    ¡­


    In a manor garden in the Skywolf continent.


    "Matron, you are truly formidable. Killing those demons is like killing chickens for you!"


    "Now, no one in the surrounding fifty kilometers will dare offend our Hu Manor."


    A bevy of fox girls waited upon an old woman.


    As she enjoyed the treatment, she ate some fruits.


    "You bunch of foxes," chuckled the old woman. "All of you have such glib tongues. Alright, take your leave. I need to enter seclusion and cultivate for the next few days."


    "Yes, Matron."


    The fox girls obediently retreated.


    Hu Manor was mainly a place where a bevy of fox demonesses lived.


    And the matron of the manor was formidable in strength, and so it was that the fox demonesses waited on her quite willingly.


    "Rumble."


    The matron walked into a chamber.


    When the chamber''s doors closed, the matron relaxed. In a flash, she transformed into a young girl.


    She sat on a mat, her brows filled with worry. "To break through? Or not?"


    "I''m a dragon and Master bestowed me with the Dharmic formulation, Skydragon Body. I cultivated to the Connate Golden Core so easily. According to Master, I''m very talented in the Sword Dao. I stepped into the Dao three years ago and could have condensed an Essence Soul."


    "But¡­"


    "Mortals can freely kill other mortals."


    "Once I step into the Essence Soul realm, my senior brothers and sisters will show no mercy," muttered the girl. "Is it worth it to become an inherited-teachings disciple?"


    "Master, why are you this ruthless? Why are you forcing us to compete?"


    The girl really did not wish to engage in the competition.


    However, she had no choice as one of the many in-name disciples her master had taken.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was, after all, a great demon from the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. He was a demon through-and-through, and so he followed the adage of survival of the fittest. The strong would survive and the weak perish!


    "I have no choice. I don''t want to die. I want to stay alive so I can find my father and mother," muttered the girl. "I''ll break through and risk it."

 444 Chufus Gif

    Chapter 444: Chufu''s Gift


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    On the day Qin Yun arrived in the Skywolf continent, in a secret hall of the Divine Firmament Chapter of the Great Chang world.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged, wearing his tall headdress and Daoist robes.


    His second Essence Soul was cultivating in seclusion in the Green Touring Palace''s Myriad Dharma Pool while his actual body was similarly in seclusion.


    "Whoosh."


    Ripples appeared in the void in front of Ancestral Master Zhang. A crack appeared that connected to a distant point in space, where an old man with a huge calabash was smiling at him. "Junior Brother Divine Firmament."


    "Senior Brother Guo," greeted Ancestral Master Zhang politely. "Have you found the corpses?"


    "I have gathered all the corpses you asked for." The old man waved his hand as the stopper of the large calabash behind him flew out. Following that, three figures flew out of the calabash. These three figures rapidly tunneled through the void rift and, after a while, arrived in the Great Chang world, falling into the secret hall.


    The three figures were a ferocious-looking Godfiend, a stout ox fiend, and a crocdragon demon.


    Each of them had reached the Skydemon or Skyfiend level and had cultivated their bodies, but of course, all of them were already dead.


    "Thankfully, they are all long dead. If not, you would have had to come to Green Touring Palace to take them for yourself," said the old man with a laugh.


    "Thank you Senior Brother Guo. You have helped me greatly," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Junior Brother Divine Firmament, I heard from fellow disciples that they saw you enter the Myriad Dharma Pool?" asked the old man with narrowed eyes.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was slightly taken aback as he nodded. "Yes."


    "You entered the Myriad Dharma Pool so early?" The old man could not help but be puzzled. "This is unlike you. Your cultivation has always been a slow and steady process. The other disciples thought lowly of you for it but you were never fazed by their opinions."


    Those that could be taken in as disciples of the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure were given a rare opportunity despite Pangu''s creation of the world tens of thousands of years ago. But across the Three Realms and the eons, becoming a eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortal was common even if becoming a Golden Immortal mighty figure was rare.


    Daoist Divine Firmament had been stuck at the third Firmament Skyimmortal realm all this while. He was indeed considered too weak, someone who lined the bottom.


    "I was in no hurry in the past, but now I have to make a breakthrough," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "Let me thank you once more, Senior Brother Guo. I have to continue my seclusion."


    "Alright. I won''t disturb you any longer," replied the old man with a chuckle. The void ripples closed.


    In the secret hall.


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at the three newly gathered corpses. "With these three corpses, the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array can finally be set up."


    "I have also created the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm for the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma."


    "With the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array as a catalyst, I can pull in a sliver of Chaos Divine Lightning aura, perfecting my foundation," thought Ancestral Master Zhang.


    He was truthfully a very proud person.


    In the Great Chang world, he had created the Skyimmortal-level Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma all on his own.


    After he became a disciple of the Dao Ancestor, he read many of the Three Realms'' top Dharmic formulations. He was naturally ambitious! He wanted to ensure he had the most stable foundations! He had been seeking corpses at the Skyfiend level over the years but had only done so out of convenience. If he made it his goal to get them, all he would need to do is pay the price of several Numinous treasures to gather them quickly. However, it was rather pointless to gather enough corpses to make a breakthrough if his Dharmic formulation was not ready.


    Now that the ingredients to the array formation was gathered, and the Dharmic formulation perfected, the day he broke through was not far.


    "I''ll first refine these three corpses. I''ll use Lightning Dharma to refine them into Capital Heaven Godfiends. Once the twelve Capital Heaven Divine Godfiends are ready, I can make my breakthrough," thought Ancestral Master Zhang. "When the time comes, the remaining eight lineages of the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons¡­ can be annihilated."


    Only by greatly improving his strength would he be able to destroy the defensive arrays of the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons while protecting the mortals that lived within.


    The fact that the Empyrean Lord was bent on conquering the Great Chang world made Ancestral Master Zhang feel an ominous dread. Thus, he spared no expense at speeding up his breakthrough. He had even used the most precious opportunity given by the Green Touring Palace, the Myriad Dharma Pool, ahead of time.


    ¡­


    In the Skywolf world, Treasure Elephant Palace on the Skywolf continent was where Yellow-robed Supremacy resided and cultivated.


    The twenty-nine Combat Generals under him also lived there. The hundred and eight Guardians, when they visited, would stay there too.


    "Here, drink!"


    "Since you are Chufu''s brother, you are my brother as well!"


    A particular cave abode in Treasure Elephant Palace was Chufu''s residence. At the moment there were more than ten Combat Generals and Guardians in the cave. They had great relationships with Chufu which was why they were invited.


    "Bottoms up!" Qin Yun downed every toast he was offered.


    He wanted to save his daughter so he tried his best to befriend these Combat Generals and Guardians. Perhaps they might be of some help.


    "This wine cup doesn''t give me the kicks. I''ll use this."


    "Alright, I''ll join you, Brother Menggu." Qin Yun grabbed a wine jar.


    "Menggu, don''t you get Brother Qin Yun drunk. No one drinks like you, jar after jar."


    "Brother Qin Yun gave no protest, so mind your business." Menggu was a huge man with crimson-red hair. He tipped his head and finished the jar of wine before throwing it aside. He laughed out loud as he looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, you sure are a joy to drink with. I''m very happy today so let me dance to add some entertainment for everyone."


    "Dance to a tune?"


    Qin Yun, whose clothes were stained with alcohol, was quite alarmed after having finished a huge jar of wine.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    The man named Menggu tore off his shirt and revealed his naked upper body. There were flaming tattoos all over it.


    Menggu waved his hand, and in his left hand a huge shield appeared while his right hand wrapped around a large ax.


    "Dong!"


    He slammed the back of the ax onto the shield causing a loud resonating hum that filled the entire hall.


    Menggu freely showcased his shield and ax arts. With his strength, he instantly transformed into dozens of afterimages in the hall. Simultaneously, a scorching flame rose into the air. It had an ancient and mystical aura¡­ In midair, it vaguely manifested as a stout figure whose hair was formed from flame wisps. Its eyes were also raging flames, and just one look at them left one stifled.


    "This is?" Qin Yun felt his heart quiver. The aura was very weak but it still felt more terrifying than Puqu Dragonlord''s aura.


    "It''s Mighty God Zhurong," Chufu explained with a voice transmission. "Brother Menggu is a descendent of Mighty God Zhurong."


    "Mighty God Zhurong?" Qin Yun was somewhat perplexed.


    "There seem to be things you don''t know. Before Pangu split the world open, there were Godfiends born in the Chaos, such as the three Dao Ancestors, the Buddhist Ancestor and the Dragon race''s Ancestral Dragon, N¨¹wa, Mighty God Gonggong, Mighty God Zhurong¡­ Many ancient existences were born in the Chaos," said Chufu through a voice transmission. "Although Mighty God Zhurong is separated from Menggu by many generations, he can still call him forth. Among the Combat Generals under Supremacy, Menggu''s strength is ranked in the top five."


    Qin Yun nodded and listened.


    "Great!" A handsome blind man cheered. Although he was blind, he could sense the fluctuations in the air. He held up his chopsticks with a laugh as he tapped on the containers beside him.


    "Ding!" "Ding!" "Dang!" "Dong!"


    Accompanied by the tapping, a musical tune sounded.


    An intense war song left Qin Yun felling ardorous and with zeal coursing through his blood.


    "Lizhu was once a musician of the Heavenly Courts." Chufu introduced through a voice transmission. "He followed Supremacy in rebelling against the Heavenly Courts. It''s very rare to hear him play music."


    Qin Yun listened.


    Although Menggu''s war dance had conjured Mighty God Zhurong''s aura, Qin Yun found himself gradually drawn in by the beats of Lizhu the blind Combat General. The sound appeared distant and spread out, seemingly transporting Qin Yun to an ancient battlefield in ancient times. On the battlefield, countless heavenly troops were fighting with fiendish demons.


    Many heavenly troops had risked their lives, falling in the process.


    As Qin Yun listened, his lifeblood boiled as his eyes could not help but turn red.


    "Ha!" Menggu roared loudly as the hall shook.


    The handsome blind man stopped his beating as well.


    Menggu turned around and could not help but say, "Lizhu, every time you beat your Combat Ode, I have the urge to storm the Heavenly Courts. When we fought for the Heavenly Courts to protect every corner of the Three Realms, how many of our brothers died in combat? Yet, the Heavenly Courts treated us heartlessly!"


    "Alright, Menggu. You''re drunk," shouted Chufu with a frown.


    Menggu seemed to snap out of his delirium as he looked at Qin Yun and nodded. "Today we celebrate and welcome Brother Qin Yun. Let''s not talk about the past. Come, Brother Qin Yun, let''s continue drinking."


    ¡­


    Even while he drank, Qin Yun was observing.


    He was surprised to discover that Chufu held quite some status among the Combat Generals. Among the twelve Combat Generals that attended the banquet, the strongest were Menggu and Lizhu. But one could vaguely sense that they treated Chufu as the leader.


    "This Mansion Lord Chufu seems to enjoy a high standing under Yellow-robed Supremacy," thought Qin Yun.


    The banquet finally ended.


    The Combat Generals and Guardians left one by one.


    Chufu walked Qin Yun to his residence.


    "This is where Guardian Goldensnake used to live." That night, Chufu brought Qin Yun to a compound. "Since you defeated him, this is now your residence in Treasure Elephant Palace."


    Qin Yun looked at the compound in front of him.


    In terms of area, it was about ten times smaller than Chufu''s cave abode.


    "There''s no need to accompany me, Brother Chufu. Have an early rest," said Qin Yun. His relationship with Chufu deepened after spending the day together.


    "Qin Yun." Chufu took out a bamboo slip from and handed it to Qin Yun. "This is a sword art that Starlord Covetous Wolf gave to me. I''ll lend it to you. Just return it to me tomorrow. Starlord Covetous Wolf is the head of the seven Big Dipper Starlords. He''s adept in sword arts, his sword arts ranking in the top ten of the Three Realms. He is a true Golden Immortal mighty figure. This sword art manual is something I always keep close. After I came to the Skywolf world, I have only lent it to Blackkill once. You must cherish it."


    Qin Yun was astonished.


    A sword art manual that belonged to Starlord Covetous Wolf?


    "This, this¡­" Qin Yun regarded the bamboo slip like it was a hot potato.


    The Dao was not to be easily instructed.


    Yet, Chufu so easily lent it to him?


    "Why all the fuss about me lending it to you? Brothers can leave their lives in the hands of one another, much less a sword art." Chufu looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun felt Chufu''s sincerity and, at that moment, realized why proud Combat Generals like Menggu and Lizhu would consider them their leader.


    "Alright, I won''t argue." Qin Yun felt a little excited as he said solemnly, "I''ll accept this sword art manual."


    With that said, Qin Yun reached out and took it solemnly.


    "We can have a good spar once your sword arts improve. Hahaha, I''ve been itching for a good opponent after coming to the Skywolf world. Unfortunately, there has never been a powerful sword arts expert. It sure is lonely." Chufu left after he handed the bamboo slip to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun held the bamboo slip in hand as he watched Chufu''s departing back. After a long while, he returned to his compound.

 445 Breakthrough Under The Lunar Sky

    Chapter 445: Breakthrough Under The Lunar Sky


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A red half-moon hung high in the Skywolf world''s sky, its light scattering into a house through its windows.


    Inside that house, there was a flask of wine and a scroll of the sword art bamboo slip.


    Qin Yun took a swig of wine as he carefully perused the bamboo slip. It was made of extraordinary materials.


    A long time ago, when the Three Realms were still in their infancy, there was no such thing as ''paper.'' The earliest Dharmic formulations were recorded on metal, stone, or leather. Some were even recorded on cloth or bamboo slips.


    He flipped open the bamboo slip which had words on it as well as sword art figures. They were very detailed and were split into five volumes.


    Each word and figure was dripping with a deadly aura.


    "What terrifying killing intent." Qin Yun felt a little alarmed. "Chufu probably only shared this with one person, Brother Blackkill, because this sword art is just too terrifying. Those with weaker realms would be affected simply by reading it, turning them insane."


    Qin Yun still knew very little about the Heavenly Courts, the overseer of the Three Realms. In name, at least.


    He did not fully appreciate Starlord Covetous Wolf''s position.


    The seven Big Dipper Starlords was said to be the strongest Starlords under Emperor Polestar 1. And Starlord Covetous Wolf was the leader of them all. Although his sword art was not considered a particularly powerful divine power, it was a supreme treasure to Sword Dao cultivators.


    "Such horrifying killing intent does not match my Sword Dao."


    "However, advice from others always helps one to overcome one''s shortcomings. I can learn from the parts that suit me best."


    "My Sword Dao is as perfect as the Heavenly Cycle and can encompass everything. It naturally can draw on areas from the Decimation Sword Dao." Qin Yun carefully read as he pondered.


    A sword art that could rank within the top ten of the Three Realms definitely had its charms.


    One is marked by the company one keeps.


    This was the principle.


    If one''s willpower was insufficient, one would be heavily influenced by such a sword art. One''s Sword Dao could even change as a result.


    Phew¡ª Phew¡ª


    The night breeze blew, scattering tree leaves into the courtyard.


    Qin Yun spent four hours reading the entire sword art. He felt inspired as though his soul had been cleansed.


    "This is a Sword Dao at the Golden Immortal level?" Qin Yun muttered. "Not does it include the Heaven and Earth, it even includes Samsara and Karma¡­"


    His first impression from reading Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art was one of shock.


    But as he read to the end, Qin Yun felt that the five volumes of the sword art were about Samsara! They contained the mysteries of Samsara and Karma.


    "I can sense that a killing blow is hidden in this volume! It can kill enemies through Samsara and Karma." Qin Yun was astounded. "When one cleaves out with this strike, ordinary defensive moves are useless. Even across infinite space, one can kill the enemy by using karmic ties."


    "In the beginning there was immense killing intent but eventually there was no killing intent at all. It became decimation that permeated through karma."


    Qin Yun realized this because he was very perceptive. Besides, he could use his Eye of Lightning to visualize karma and had some understanding of karma. This allowed him to decipher the terrifying killer blow hidden in the volume.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun suddenly closed the jade slip.


    He walked out the house and into the courtyard. The evening wind was chilly, snapping his mind awake.


    "I have to extricate myself from this Decimation Sword Dao," muttered Qin Yun. "I have to extricate myself, for if I fall in, my Sword Dao will be swept away by it."


    If his Sword Dao was described as a tiny river stream, then Starlord Covetous Wolf''s horrifying Decimation Sword Dao which was ranked top ten in the Three Realms would be like the boundless ocean!


    If his tiny river stream were to be too closely connected to it, it would be swept away by the boundless ocean, mixing into one entity. He would then lose himself. Perhaps his strength would continue progressing but his Sword Dao would shift towards the Decimation Sword Dao. His killing intent would only grow. For instance, Daoist Blackkill''s sword array was fully inclined to the Decimation Sword Dao.


    "I have to extricate myself."


    "My Misty Rain Sword Dao should be¡­"


    Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain flew out and flew within the courtyard.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The misty rain-like flying sword shuttled within the courtyard. It was one of the courtyards in Yellow-robed Supremacy''s Treasure Elephant Palace. The void was extremely stable and, no matter how Qin Yun cast his sword arts, he failed to affect it in any way.


    If the void could be that easily ripped apart, the troops from the Heavenly Courts would have long stormed the area.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stood in the courtyard, an obsession building within him. He freely practiced his sword art, fully infusing what he gained from Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art jade slip. He even drew further inferences and changed his own sword art accordingly.


    "Boom!!!"


    While the Misty Rain Sword continued its formative process, its might rose abruptly, slicing at the void. But of course, the void remained extremely stable.


    When he saw this surge in might, Qin Yun stopped.


    "I''ve found it." Qin Yun felt excited. "I fell into a bottleneck in Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. I have always been vexed about how my Sword Dao insights can be taken to a whole new level."


    "Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art far exceeds my level but I have benefited tremendously from it."


    "In just one night, I have broken through."


    "My Dao domain, if released, will be about a hundred and fifty kilometers, I suppose? In terms of realm, I match those at the fourth or fifth firmament of Skyimmortal."


    Qin Yun was pumped.


    It was not only because his strength had risen. More importantly, the chances of rescuing his daughter were higher now that he was stronger!


    After all, he might not have been the match of any Combat General previously! But now, even with the flaw in his Dharmic powers, he could definitely, if only barely, give Combat Generals some trouble as sword immortals were adept at battle.


    "Although Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art is powerful, it ultimately doesn''t suit me."


    "Drawing out the bits that are useful to me is all I can do."


    Qin Yun continued practicing his sword art.


    ¡­


    The next day, Qin Yun took the initiative to meet Chufu and return the bamboo slip personally.


    "How do you feel after reading the sword art?" Chufu smiled at Qin Yun.


    "It made me realize how crude my sword arts are," said Qin Yun.


    "It is Starlord Covetous Wolf after all. His sword arts rank in the top ten of the vast Three Realms." Chufu put away the bamboo slip and said, "I only lent it to you for a night because I was afraid that you would be consumed by it and lose your own Sword Dao. Even if you are temporarily unable to extricate yourself, I believe with time, you can regain yourself as long as you stop reading it."


    "As long as you extricate yourself, you can change Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art to suit you. It can be greatly beneficial even if you only draw a little from it," said Chufu.


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    In fact, he had already extricated himself from the influence of the sword art that very night. He had even broken through to a whole new level.


    "Brother Chufu, how long does Supremacy''s seclusion typically take?" asked Qin Yun.


    "We are only subordinates of Supremacy," said Chufu with a smile. "There is no need for Supremacy to take our opinions into account when he enters seclusion. He will naturally exit once he is done cultivating. He won''t specially exit seclusion just because a new Guardian like you arrived. We do not even dare report the matter."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The replacement of one of the hundred and eight Guardians was trivial to Supremacy.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy''s cultivation was of the greatest importance.


    "Of course, Supremacy''s seclusion typically does not last long," said Chufu. "According to my experience, he will be any time now if it''s a short one. If it''s long, it will be a few decades at most. Don''t be in a hurry. Cultivate here in peace and wait for him patiently. Once Supremacy exits seclusion, he will naturally summon you."


    Qin Yun nodded in enlightenment. "It might be a wait of decades. Might I know if I can travel around? I have not traveled the Skywolf continent yet."


    "Of course." Chufu smiled with a nod. "Once Supremacy exits seclusion, I will immediately notify you by voice transmission. The Skywolf continent is only so large, you will be able to return quickly. And if Supremacy is willing, he can even teleport you in front of him with a single move."


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    He had to quickly traverse the Skywolf continent and find his daughter!


    During his time at the Treasure Elephant Palace, Qin Yun had determined that his daughter was not in Treasure Elephant Palace.


    "By the way, there are descendants of the followers of Supremacy in the Skywolf continent," said Chufu. "Furthermore, this is the place where Supremacy cultivates. So do not meddle with the mortal affairs. Even if you act in rage, don''t be too ruthless. You can inform me first if you wish to take action."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Also, Supremacy has taken in a bunch of in-name disciples," explained Chufu. "They are selected based on the demon''s belief of survival of the fittest. The in-name disciples engage in overt and covert fights for the position of inherited-teachings disciple. The entire Skywolf continent is the grounds for their contest. Do not interfere in their strifes. Mostly because Supremacy does not like the fairness of the fights to be affected, but also because it is quite a complicated issue."


    "Supremacy has taken in a group of in-name disciples?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    According to his guesses, his daughter had likely been taken to the Skywolf world by Yellow-robed Supremacy.


    Could she have become an in-name disciple?


    "Brother Chufu. I do not know of these in-name disciples nor do I have the means to know who they are," said Qin Yun.


    "I''ll give that information to you," said Chufu. "I''ll tell you some of the concealed relationships they have. Being new to the Skywolf continent, you don''t want to end up provoking someone without realizing it."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and held his voice transmission token.


    Buzz.


    Large amounts of information appeared with many images.


    "There are a total of 392 in-name disciples. All the information I know is in there. There are also certain things you need to look out for in the Skywolf continent," said Chufu.


    Qin Yun swept his eyes and quickly checked it. In a blink of an eye, he noticed one person among the many in-name disciples!


    There were five dragons among the in-name disciples!


    And there were only two female dragons. One had cultivated for more than five decades while one had only cultivated for slightly more than ten years.


    "Is it her?" Qin Yun''s eyes landed on that dragon girl''s image. Her eyes had a forbearing look but her facial features resembled his and Yi Xiao''s.

 446 Daughter

    Chapter 446: Daughter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    With just one look, Qin Yun memorized the detailed information on the young female dragon.


    Her name was Yiyi, with no surname. She was brought to this world by Yellow-robed Supremacy when she was a toddler and had become one of his in-name disciples.


    She cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation, Skydragon Body, which was a Dharmic formulation that Yellow-robed Supremacy created himself. As a dragon, her cultivation in the Skydragon Body naturally progressed rapidly. However, Yellow-robed Supremacy also had many other in-name disciples, many with extremely high talent. Yet among all these in-name disciples, she was rather famous for her talent in the Sword Dao.


    She was extremely fast when it came to learning swordplay. She was innately good at sword arts, and the moment she touched a sword she could naturally enter the state of being one with the sword. She had an innate Sword Dao characteristic about her.


    Under Yellow-robed Supremacy''s tutelage, she had grasped sword intent just half a year after starting her practice of the way of the sword.


    Even Yellow-robed Supremacy had praised her for her Sword Dao talent¡­ Her Sword Dao talent also made several fellow disciples take notice of this very young junior sister of theirs.


    "She was brought back as a toddler? A dragon? Has Sword Dao talent? Furthermore, she looks like Xiaoxiao and I. The shape of her face and her mouth greatly resembles Xiaoxiao''s. Her eyes look like mine¡­" Qin Yun was even more convinced that this dragon girl was his own daughter.


    "Brother Qin Yun, what are you looking at?" asked Chufu with a smile.


    "After reading through the information regarding these in-name disciples, it does seem like many of them are descendants of Combat Generals and Guardians," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "That''s why I said the situation is rather murky," chuckled Chufu.


    "Yes. Alright, I won''t disturb you any further. I''ll take my leave," said Qin Yun.


    "Cultivate Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art properly. Make a breakthrough as soon as possible so that we can spar," said Chufu.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded and left.


    As Chufu watched Qin Yun''s departing back, he thought to himself, "This Qin Yun is apparently very concerned with that information."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun left Treasure Elephant Palace that very day. He began traversing the Skywolf continent.


    The Skywolf continent was the most unfathomable continent in the Skywolf world since it was where Yellow-robed Supremacy and many Combat Generals resided. Some of the subordinates that followed Supremacy had their families here populating the land; therefore, it was a land with complexities that ran deep. Although an outsider like Qin Yun had acquainted himself with a group of Combat Generals, he still had to keep a very low profile.


    After all, among the Combat Generals, only Chufu had his interests at heart. The others were mere acquaintances.


    "Whoosh."


    That night, Qin Yun was flying in the clouds as per normal.


    After his breakthrough in the Sword Dao, his soul and body had been enhanced through the nourishment of his Sword Dao. His bloodline senses grew much sharper and could now sense about a hundred to a hundred and fifty kilometers away.


    "I have been traversing the Skywolf continent for five days and five nights, and have covered nearly half of it, but I have yet to find my daughter." Qin Yun flew amid the clouds, thinking to himself. "My speculation should not be wrong. My daughter is very likely to be here in the Skywolf continent."


    Regardless if it was a speculation or the information he gleaned about the in-name disciple, the dragon girl Yiyi, everything pointed to Qin Yun''s daughter being in the Skywolf continent.


    It would have been fine if there was only one coincidence, but with so many? He was certain that his speculation was right.


    "Hum¨C"


    It was a very weak feeling.


    Somewhere nearby was a place that resonated with the bloodline in him. It was a feeling of attachment and affection.


    This feeling stirred up tumultuous waves in Qin Yun''s heart as he immediately turned his head in one direction. His eyes could not help but turn red.


    "Daughter?"


    Sou!


    Amid the moonlit clouds, he shot forth in the form of a beam.


    As he flew closer, the sensation grew stronger.


    "I sense it. It''s very clear. She''s there." Qin Yun came to an abrupt stop when he was about fifty plus kilometers away from the source of what he sensed.


    "Open!"


    A vertical eye opened in his glabella.


    The divine power Eye of Lightning looked far into the distance!


    Qin Yun saw with one glance the estimated spot where he felt the bloodline sensation. In a large manor in the wild, there were a number of human servants that seemed to be living there with most of them being fox demonesses! And there was only¡­ one dragon.


    "A dragon!" Qin Yun watched.


    In a hidden chamber in the manor, a young girl was half-slumped in a chair with her abdomen revealed. There was a ghastly wound on her abdomen with a green mist lingering over it.


    "Hmph." The girl poured a few drops of medicinal liquid from a black bottle onto her wound creating sizzling sounds, widening the wound! However, the green mist dissipated greatly.


    The bloody wound was rapidly healing at a discernible pace.


    Following that, the girl continued dripping a few more drops of the liquid.


    It happened again and again¡­


    Every time the wound healed for the better, she would drip a few more drops, thinning the green mist.


    The girl''s forehead was covered in sweat but her eyes were as sharp as a blade.


    "I''ve finally cleansed it completely." Her wound was constantly healing, to the point of it vanishing. The girl tidied her clothes after she saw that there was no more green mist and her skin had returned to a healthy smoothness.


    "That spider was really a pain. I cultivate in the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulations and am adept at sword arts. I have fought above my level against a second firmament Essence Soul demon who had just broken through but still had to escape in defeat." The color in the girl''s face turned for the better gradually. The medicinal liquid treated the poison well, but when it seeped into her flesh it was excruciating painful!


    "Sword arts are meant to be used in combat. Simply cultivating arduously won''t do. There''s a need to engage in battle occasionally."


    "But after this battle, I will have to be more patient in the coming days."


    The girl sat cross-legged on a mat, her eyes closed in silent cultivation.


    ¡­


    About fifty kilometers away, Qin Yun''s eyes were already moist while high above the clouds.


    The bloodline sensation!


    He could even see the karma tying them together through his Eye of Lightning!


    All of that made Qin Yun realize that this girl was his daughter, his own flesh and blood!


    The scene of his daughter purging the poison in pain left his heart wincing for her. He felt guilt-ridden.


    "I never expected her to reach the first firmament Essence Soul realm so quickly," thought Qin Yun. "Although her Sword Dao realm is much lower than mine, her bloodline senses should extend to nearly fifty kilometers. Now is not the best time to directly reunite with her.


    "After all, this group of in-name disciples is constantly being watched by the Treasure Elephant Palace in secret."


    "Yellow-robed Supremacy wants them to compete fair and square, and forbids us from interfering. If I were to reunite with my daughter now, Treasure Elephant Palace would immediately learn of the situation. It would only bring up unnecessary ramifications. It would be too troublesome."


    "Now that I''ve found my daughter, I should first converge my bloodline aura." With a thought, he cast a Dharma spell to converge his aura. He also used his Dao domain to completely cover his body''s surface, completely isolating all his aura.


    If one wanted to sense his aura, they''d have to first crack open his Dao domain.


    "Daughter."


    After converging and isolating his aura, Qin Yun took one step forward and continued advancing.


    Soon, he arrived at the manor.


    The servants and fox demonesses did not sense him as Qin Yun silently arrived in the yard outside his daughter''s cultivation hall.


    Qin Yun''s Eye of Lightning could clearly see his daughter''s karma. Among the countless karma threads, one of the two thickest karma lines led into the void while the other was linked to him.


    This karma line also contained many images.


    The scene of a two-year-old toddler scrunched in a corner crying. "Father, Mother, I''m afraid, really afraid."


    A six-year-old girl was sitting on a tree''s crown, silently looking into the distant horizon.


    A twelve-year-old girl with a bloody wound on her face was standing on the peak of a towering mountain. She touched the wound on her face, her eyes filled with pain. "Since you do not treat me as family, you are no longer have an elder sister from this day forth. I will keep this scar with me as a reminder. And you are wrong. It was a fiendcelestial that abducted me. My parents are not to blame."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was filled with guilt and sympathy. "Daughter, your father is here. From this day forth, your father will definitely protect you. Definitely!"

 447 First Meeting With Daughter

    Chapter 447: First Meeting With Daughter


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    That night, Qin Yun left Hu Manor in secret and went to a nameless mountain slightly more than five kilometers away.


    "Whooh!" Under the influence of his Dao domain, a huge chunk of stone was dug out from the mountain. It floated in midair and, with a tremble, rubble was forcefully knocked off of it. A rather exquisite stone house suddenly materialized in midair. The patterns on the roof, windows, and doors were quite charming and, as the stone house gradually landed, the land beneath it naturally turned flat, making a perfect landing place for the stone house.


    In just half a minute, Qin Yun had a stone homestead.


    Using the same method, stone tables, stone chairs, and even a bed appeared.


    "I''ll stay here temporarily." Qin Yun took out some living necessities from the Two World Picture while inside the house, giving it some character.


    He walked to the stone house''s entrance and looked at the distant Hu Manor that was more than five kilometers away.


    This bit of distance could be enveloped by Qin Yun''s Dao domain at all times. If anything out of the ordinary happened, his flying sword could appear and traverse the five kilometers instantly!


    "I''ve found my daughter but how should I save her?" Qin Yun frowned slightly as he flipped his hand to take out his transmission token.


    Buzz.


    The transmission token revealed the detailed information that Chufu had previously given him.


    "Yellow-robed Supremacy has employed the selection rule of the demons'' survival of the fittest for a bunch of in-name disciples as a way to choose his inherited-teachings disciples. Furthermore, he doesn''t allow his subordinates to influence the disciples'' contention," thought Qin Yun. "However, how can he call this absolute fairness?"


    "Nearly half the in-name disciples are descendants of Combat Generals or Guardians."


    "After all, being an inherited-teachings disciple of Yellow-robed Supremacy is a position higher than the average Guardian. Those demon Combat Generals and Guardians have even taken the initiative to get their descendants to vie in this competition despite knowing that the risk of death is very high."


    "The competition between disciples can lead to death. Combat Generals and Guardians are forbidden from interfering. If they could, a Combat General would easily wipe out a large group of in-name disciples. It wouldn''t be a competition, but a massacre."


    "However, there are some discreet tricks they can use."


    "Teaching their descendants personally¡­ or even secretly arranging for some experiential training, even giving treasures in secret. It speeds up the growth of these disciples and Yellow-robed Supremacy has always turned a blind eye towards this." Qin Yun frowned. "Because of this, in-name disciples with considerable backgrounds grow faster and have more treasures. They have a much greater chance in the final round of competitions."


    "There are only three inherited-teachings disciples spots for 392 in-name disciples. It is bound to end tragically." Qin Yun did not like such survival of the fittest selections.


    It could be done in completely different ways. Tournaments? Tests? All sorts of methods could be used to select an inherited-teachings disciple if one wanted. These were also commonly done by humans.


    However, Yellow-robed Supremacy''s method was like raising Gu. He allowed the in-name disciples to engage in fratricidal fighting.


    "Even if I help my daughter, the chances of her becoming one of the three final inherited-teachings disciples are slim. My daughter is too young and there are some in-name disciples that are much older and have cultivated for several hundred years. With such unequal cultivation time, the competition between disciples was never fair to begin with."


    "But to take my daughter away¡­"


    Qin Yun was frustrated.


    "How should I take her away?"


    "Only after becoming Guardian and understanding the rules do I know how hard it is to enter and exit the Skywolf continent! Combat Generals and Guardians are allowed to enter and exit the Skywolf continent at any moment but ordinary residents of the Skywolf continent are forbidden from exiting without Supremacy''s permission."


    "These in-name disciples are now in a competition. The Skywolf continent itself is the battlefield so they are also forbidden from leaving it."


    Qin Yun shook his head.


    "It''s impossible for me to rush out of the Skywolf continent''s exterior array formation with my daughter! That is a massive array that can even keep the troops of heaven at bay."


    "My daughter also has no means of leaving by herself!"


    "Since a hard stance doesn''t work, perhaps I should take a soft approach?" Qin Yun pondered.


    The Skywolf continent was completely isolated from the exterior world. Even Major Void Transference was useless!


    As he pondered¡­he stood on the mountaintop and watched the distant Hu Manor and his daughter.


    *****


    In the following days, Qin Yun secretly protected his daughter while cultivating.


    Having just broken through to the realm of having a Dao domain of hundred and fifty kilometers, he could naturally continue improving having passed the bottleneck. He dedicated himself to studying Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art and made tremendous gains by the day, constantly infusing these insights into his own Sword Dao.


    The enhancement of his Sword Dao realm was also very helpful in creating his own Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation.


    It was previously in a nascent form, but now, with his realm matching that of a fourth or fifth firmament Skyimmortal, the Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation he created independently was becoming more complete. He could even make another attempt to condense an Essence Soul himself. However, his last failure made him even more cautious. He wanted to make the Dharmic formulation as perfect as it could be.


    "Oh?"


    On the sixth day of protecting his daughter in secret, Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged in the stone house in silent meditation, suddenly opened his eyes. His Dao domain had detected his daughter leaving Hu Manor.


    "Eh? She is rushing towards me?" Qin Yun was somewhat stunned.


    The dragon girl was flying amid the clouds and soon landed in a valley of the mountain. The valley was perennially covered in fog, making it difficult to determine what was happening within.


    Inside the valley.


    The dragon girl stretched out her hand as a tiny sword in her palm rapidly expanded into a three-foot-long sword.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    She immediately began practicing her sword arts.


    Her sword moved around agilely, filled with hidden killing intent. As she demonstrated her sword arts, many of the rocks in the valley exploded but the sounds were completely isolated from the outside world.


    "This fog is formed naturally. It''s indeed a good place to practice one''s swordplay." Qin Yun smiled as he carefully watched his daughter''s sword arts.


    "My daughter''s Sword Dao talent sure is high."


    "She has already honed her sword arts to such a level? How old is she this year?"


    Qin Yun was pleasantly surprised as he watched.


    ¡­


    In the valley.


    The girl was practicing her swordplay freely. The Hu Manor was on the small side, after all. She cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage, so when she cast her sword arts freely she needed a sufficiently large space. The valley was perfect for that.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    As she continued her swordplay, the surrounding rocks kept crumbling under her flying Sword Qi.


    "Young Lady, your sword arts aren''t much but you can cause quite a stir." A voice reverberated in the valley.


    The dragon girl was alarmed. "There''s someone here!?"


    She looked around her and, amid the fog, a figure appeared in the distance.


    "Oh? My Dao domain failed to discover him." The dragon girl was secretly alarmed. She carefully looked at the newcomer who was a man dressed in ordinary linen clothes. He was smiling and his eyes made the dragon girl feel a baffling sense of affection.


    This feeling of affection made her turn wary.


    "Why do I feel affectionate towards him? Is it some bewitching spell?" The dragon girl was very alert. "Not just that, I can''t even sense his aura at all."


    If she closed her eyes, she would not even sense the existence of a life that was right in front of her.


    "I can''t even sense his aura. The gap between us is huge." The dragon girl immediately bowed. "Greetings, Senior."


    The Skywolf continent was filled with experts, after all. It was common to bump into an expert. It was actually safer than bumping into any of her senior brothers and sisters.


    "Young Lady, what''s your name?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    He looked nonchalant and carefree but he was, in fact, very nervous!


    This was his daughter!


    He took in her looks, her eyes, and the wound on her face.


    All these years, she must have suffered a lot alone. It was unfortunate that he had not been around.


    "Senior¡­" The dragon girl hesitated for a moment before saying, "Dragon Nine."


    "Dragon Nine?" Qin Yun smiled and said directly, "I happened to be cultivating on this mountain when I saw you practicing your swordplay here. I have loved sword arts my entire life. When I saw your practice, I couldn''t help but intervene for it is truly riddled with mistakes."


    "Riddled with mistakes?" The dragon girl was astonished.


    She was very confident in her sword arts. After all, the Sword Dao manual she studied in was given to her by Yellow-robed Supremacy. Although it was incomparable to Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art, it was still very powerful.


    Furthermore, her talent in the Sword Dao was also extremely high.


    "You aren''t convinced?" Qin Yun stretched out his hand as a stream of water flew over from a distance, freezing to form an ice sword. "Come, spar with me."


    The dragon girl''s heart stirred.


    Had she lucked out?


    She was receiving pointers from a senior?


    "Senior, watch out." The dragon girl bowed obediently before stabbing out with her sword.


    Schwing. The sword was agile and extremely fast as it stabbed at Qin Yun.


    "Pa!"


    He gave a simple swat with the ice sword and hit her strike to the side. "It''s too direct. Sword momentum needs to be gathered, only at the final instance when you strike at the enemy should the momentum show its true might."


    The dragon girl was taken aback as she immediately put that into practice.


    "Bam!"


    "You have great strength but that is not how it is supposed to be used."


    "Pfft!"


    "This strike is too wishy-washy. It''s not decisive at all."


    With Qin Yun''s present Sword Dao realm, Chufu was the only swordsman comparable to him in the Skywolf world. His bullying of a young lady at the first firmament Essence Soul realm was equivalent to an adult fighting a baby. He saw flaws everywhere and easily acted upon them.


    ¡­


    In a hall in Treasure Elephant Palace.


    Various projection screens were floating that depicted scenes of the three hundred plus in-name disciples displayed.


    A group of cultivators were watching them at all times.


    The Competition of the Disciples was something Supremacy placed great importance on. They naturally needed to monitor it well!


    "Look, that dragon girl named Yiyi lucked out."


    "She lucked out?"


    A number of cultivators looked over in curiosity.


    In the projection, Yiyi''s sword arts were repeatedly nullified by Qin Yun.


    "Isn''t that the newly promoted Guardian Qin Yun? He''s also Dao Seeking Sword Mansion''s swordmaster. I heard Manor Lord Chufu invited a bunch of Combat Generals to welcome him."


    "This Guardian Qin Yun is apparently a mortal but his sword arts are unfathomably profound. That dragon girl has finally lucked out to encounter this strong Guardian who is willing to guide her."


    The cultivators commended the situation and thought nothing of it.


    If it was only guidance? That did not matter in any way.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy had even declared his allowance of Combat Generals and Guardians to guide his in-name disciples before!


    Supremacy was naturally more satisfied with stronger disciples.


    However, in the Competition of the Disciples, Combat Generals and Guardians, as well as the other Skyimmortals, were not to interfere directly. That would be an act of bullying or an outright massacre. Therefore, Yellow-robed Supremacy would not bother with their indirect interferences typically! If any act of bullying was committed, however, infuriating Yellow-robed Supremacy in the process¡­ well, few in the Skywolf world would dare provoke Yellow-robed Supremacy. His temper was a lot more brutal than it was when he was in the Heavenly Courts.


    ¡­


    In the valley.


    The dragon girl''s sword arts were nullified repeatedly but she did not turn despondent. Instead, her eyes lit up, filled with excitement.


    How many years had it been!?


    She finally had a senior who was willing to teach her seriously!


    One had to know that despite being her master in name, Yellow-robed Supremacy had only thrown her a few manuals and sent her off.


    This was the first time!


    She was being carefully guided by a senior expert.


    "I have to grasp this opportunity. I must not miss it." The dragon girl practiced diligently and she could also sense that her sword arts were being strengthened at a discernible pace.


    "What impressive perceptivity. Among all the Sword Dao geniuses I have encountered, including Huan''er, none of them is as perceptive as my daughter''s." Qin Yun was rather astonished.


    While feeling astonished, he waved his hand, dissipating the ice sword he wielded.


    The dragon girl was taken aback as she immediately retracted her sword and stood obediently by the side and bowed. "Senior, thank you for your guidance."


    "You aren''t so stupid." Qin Yun nodded. "You can still be molded. Return and think through this lesson carefully."


    "Senior, might I know when I can meet you again?" The dragon girl asked immediately in her anxiousness.


    Qin Yun looked at his daughter and felt his heart wince. He nodded on the surface, saying, "On matters regarding sword arts, you can go up that mountain to seek me." With that said, he pointed at a mountain not far off. The fog naturally parted, revealing a mountain peak in the distance.


    With that said, Qin Yun turned and left.


    As she watched Qin Yun depart and vanish into the clouds, the dragon girl was filled with excitement.


    "Awesome. I have finally lucked out and encountered a senior expert willing to teach me." The dragon girl was elated as she secretly laughed. "He even said that I''m not that stupid. Does he think I can''t tell? My perceptivity must have caught his eye! My Sword Dao talent has been praised by Master before. This senior must have come to teach me when he saw my sufficiently high Sword Dao talent."


    After returning to his home up the mountain, Qin Yun watched the valley while standing in front the stone house.


    As he looked at his beaming daughter in the valley, he smiled. However, his heart winced a little for her.

 448 Interaction

    Chapter 448: Interaction


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The next day.


    Yiyi carried a basket and descended from the clouds to appear in front of Qin Yun''s stone house.


    She had to know it was his since it was the only house on the nameless mountain peak.


    "Senior, Senior!" Yiyi shouted.


    "You came?"


    Qin Yun walked out of the stone house.


    The dragon girl quickly placed the basket on a stone table and began diligently arranging the plates of delicacies, alcohol, and fruits on the table. While doing so, she said, "Senior, these are some of the more famous local delights. Why don''t you sample them?"


    Truth be told, she was a little nervous. She cherished this opportunity and naturally wanted to get in the good books of this mysterious senior. She was afraid that he would quickly leave and ignore her.


    "Oh? It so happens that I just woke up and haven''t had breakfast yet." Qin Yun sat down leisurely and took the pair of chopsticks she handed to him.


    Qin Yun looked at his daughter. Her face was beaming and she looked very warm.


    Qin Yun did not say a word as he received the chopsticks.


    His daughter busied herself with pouring him some wine.


    As Qin Yun drank the wine, he sampled the food.


    "These might not be comparable to some of the immortal delicacies but they are rather tasty," said Yiyi. She did not have much money saved up and so was unable to produce a banquet fit for an immortal.


    "It''s not bad," said Qin Yun.


    He was quite a connoisseur of good food.


    The food could only be considered average among all the delicacies that he had eaten in his life but Qin Yun felt that it was the best meal he ever had.


    The alcohol was of mortal grade but it actually made him tipsy. It was prepared by his daughter just for him. Furthermore, she was pouring the wine for him!


    The delicacies were also prepared by his daughter, and she brought them to him personally.


    After eating for a while, Qin Yun said, "Alright, go practice your swordplay while I watch. Let''s see if you have improved in any way."


    "Yes." Yiyi immediately went to an empty spot in front of them. She flipped her hand and was instantly holding a sword. She had a heroic bearing to her with a sword in her hand, and she began to display all the charms of her sword arts. She had been pondering the entire night and had improved greatly after implementing the pointers Qin Yun had given her the previous day.


    Qin Yun watched her.


    He found that his daughter resembled his wife in certain ways.


    Although his wife had a heroic bearing to her, she was more like a fleeting fairy that had descended into the mortal world from somewhere more ethereal.


    However, his daughter seemed to be of more mortal bearing. Her eyes were filled with a ruthlessness. From her first memory, she had lived like a prisoner! Even after Yellow-robed Supremacy brought her to the Skywolf world, she was just a weak disciple who lacked parents or background and stood out among all the in-name disciples. She was also ostracized by them for it. Only the stronger disciples with powerful backgrounds were well-received.


    After Qin Yun finished drinking the wine in his cup, he threw the cup so that it gently landed on the stone table. Then he took one step forward.


    His Dao domain directly condensed a wisp of Sword Qi at his fingertip.


    "Bam!"


    He easily found a flaw in his daughter''s sword art with one strike. "You have improved slightly since yesterday but you are still greatly lacking. Again."


    "Yes." His daughter immediately charged forward.


    ¡­


    She did not complain about being tired. Even though she took some brutal hits from Qin Yun''s easy maneuvering of her sword arts and speech, she thought nothing of it, cherishing the opportunity that was put in front of her.


    About two hours later.


    "We shall stop for today." Qin Yun stopped.


    "Alright." Yiyi sheathed her sword but she could not help but ask, "Senior, how should I address you?"


    "My surname is Qin," said Qin Yun. He had no plans on elaborating.


    "Senior Qin." The dragon girl beamed happily. "I will not disturb you any longer. I''ll return for now."


    "Go on." Qin Yun casually waved his hand.


    The dragon girl bowed politely, treating him like a master, a teacher.


    Following that, she rapidly left on a cloud.


    Only then did Qin Yun turn to shoot a wistful glance. He watched his daughter fly away in the direction of Hu Manor before returning to the stone table. He sat down and poured another cup.


    "The wine is really not bad." Qin Yun smiled as he began drinking.


    ******


    Days passed one after another.


    Yiyi was originally afraid that this Senior Qin was only guiding her on a whim, that he would leave the moment he lost interest! But from what followed¡­ she could tell that Senior Qin was truly dedicated. She visited him every other day and he would provide her with pointers for about two hours! Such careful guidance was nothing like how many senior experts treated their personal disciples. They usually would not show such dedication.


    They would only give such attention to the disciples they valued greatly.


    Clearly, this Senior Qin thought very highly of her.


    "What about me caught Senior Qin''s eye? Why is he going to such painstaking means to nurture me? Is it because of my Sword Dao talent? Does he want me to be his successor?" Yiyi pondered. "But I can never become his successor since I''m an in-name disciple of Master. In the intense battle between the three hundred plus in-name disciples, only three will live on. I don''t know when I''ll die, so how can I become his successor?"


    ¡­


    It had been half a year since Qin Yun met his daughter.


    Qin Yun was flying high in the sky, looking down on a city. Although he was more than fifty kilometers away, his Dao domain could easily reach it.


    "She''s out seeking delicacies for me again." Qin Yun smiled. He had been constantly protecting his daughter in secret.


    Although his daughter had taken the initiative to fight with Essence Soul demons, Qin Yun did would interfere unless her life was at stake.


    In the city.


    Yiyi was at a roadside stall. "I heard that Immortal Li''s eight best snacks are extremely delicious. There are powerful cultivators residing in this city. My fox demonesses do not dare come here, forcing me to make the trip myself."


    She took a whiff.


    "How fragrant." She got in line.


    Suddenly, her Skydragon Body that she cultivated felt a threat.


    Her powerful Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation had various miraculous aspects to it. Yiyi suddenly turned her head as her eyes suffused a golden light! What she found was a figure staring at her from the second floor of a tea shop. It was a green-dressed woman.


    "Senior Sister?" Yiyi was alarmed.


    The green-dressed woman sneered and phased into a phantom before charging forward.


    "Time to leave."


    The dragon girl charged into the sky with a whoosh. She even produced a faint dragon shadow that rose into the sky at an extremely fast speed.


    "Boom!" Another silver stream of light intercepted the dragon phantom from another side.


    A rumbling explosion resounded.


    Yiyi was sent flying backward as her face turned pale.


    The silver figure that stopped her in midair was a silver-robed man. The distant green-dressed woman flew to his side.


    The three of them floated above the city.


    "Senior Brother An." Yiyi looked at the silver-robed man in disbelief.


    "Little Yiyi, are you very surprised?" The green-dressed woman laughed out loud. "I remember when you were just a puny kid. You enjoyed tailing behind Senior Brother An."


    "Senior Brother An, do you plan on killing me?" Yiyi glared warily at the silver-robed man.


    He frowned. "Master has said that only three of us in-name disciples can survive. Sorry, Junior Sister, I do not wish to die."


    "Okay." Yiyi nodded as tears began rolling down her cheeks.


    "Haha, she looks so sad! Back when we were under Master''s tutelage, you liked Senior Brother An the most, didn''t you? Hahaha¡­ What a laughable young girl," said the green-dressed woman. "If you had chosen to remain a mortal, it would not have been alright for us to kill you. After a hundred years, Master''s seal would have activated and you could die peacefully. But since you have broken through to the Essence Soul realm, you are now also in the running and Senior Brother An has to kill you."


    "Why isn''t Senior Brother An killing you, Senior Sister Yu!?" Yiyi could not help but ask.


    "It''s because we are allies," said the green-dressed woman with a smile. "Among the three hundred plus fellow disciples, some have cultivated early, reaching the third firmament Essence Soul realm. We naturally have to form an alliance!"


    "Senior Brother An, rather than seek an alliance with me you wish to kill me instead?" Yiyi looked at the silver-robed youth.


    He was frowning.


    However, the green-dressed woman scoffed. "To ally with us, the minimum requirement is the second firmament Essence Soul realm. Besides, you were a mortal early on! Alright, now that you know everything, it''s time for you to die. If you know what''s best for you, don''t resist." With a wave of her hand, needle beams flew out.


    "Hmph!"


    Yiyi rapidly flew off as she brandished her sword to fend off the attacks.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    Ever since her sword arts received Qin Yun''s guidance, she saw a tremendous improvement over the past half year. As her sword flashes spun around, they created an impregnable defense. The movement bore a resemblance to the Cyclic Sword Flash but it was still very crude!


    However, it was more than enough to help her deal with the Dharma treasure of a second firmament Essence Soul realm demoness.


    "Senior Brother An, why aren''t you doing anything!?" The green-dressed woman''s expression changed as she urged him into action.


    "She improved that quickly?"


    The silver-robed youth''s expression changed slightly as he immediately charged forward. He too cultivated in a Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation and was adept at melee combat. He swept his spear over.


    Yiyi found it difficult to bury the memories of her childhood.


    Back when she was brought to the Skywolf world by Yellow-robed Supremacy, she was completely unaware of her situation in Treasure Elephant Palace. She was only a young infant. Back then, Senior Brother An had taken good care of her. He often brought her delicacies.


    To her, he was like an elder brother that treated her the best, but now her cherished elder brother was about to kill her.


    She could only swallow her anguish as she brandished the sword in her hand to fend off the attacks of her senior brother and sister! Under Qin Yun''s tutelage, her sword arts became extremely brilliant in the defense aspect. Although she was unable to defeat her senior brother and sister, she was able to ensure her own safety.


    "How old is she? She''s not even twenty! Yet she can fend off the combined attacks of us, two second firmament Essence Souls?" The green-dressed woman sent an urgent voice transmission. "Senior Brother An, think of something."


    "Her sword arts are much more formidable than when we last met her. I can''t do anything to penetrate them." The silver-robed youth was also alarmed. Although he had great talent, with him reaching the second firmament Essence Soul realm after cultivating for slightly more than a hundred and thirty years, he was only considered of average ability among the many in-name disciples of Yellow-robed Supremacy. And now, the young baby girl¡ªthe one that had always tailed behind him¡ªwho he had taken care of out of kindness had a much higher potential than him.


    But for the sake of his own future, he could not afford to go easy on her.


    ¡­


    The relentless pursuit continued.


    Yiyi failed to defeat them, and only by using one of her Skydragon Body''s forbidden spells did she manage to injure her senior sister and evade their pursuit.


    Beside a lake in the wilderness.


    Yiyi slowly landed.


    "Cough." Yiyi coughed out blood as she sat cross-legged by the side of the lake. She tried her best to stabilize her chaotic Dharmic powers.


    She took time to gradually recover.


    She looked at the lake in front of her in a daze as drops of tears rolled down her cheeks.


    She suddenly lowered her head and wept.


    "It''s all fake. It''s all fake¡­" she muttered as she sobbed.


    ¡­


    In the wilderness not far away, Qin Yun stood watching silently.


    A day later.


    On that nameless mountain in front of the stone house.


    "Senior Qin." Yiyi landed with basket in hand as usual.


    Qin Yun was already sitting by the stone table as he watched her come in.


    Yiyi smiled as she placed the basket on the stone table and began taking out the dishes. "Senior Qin, quick have a taste of these. They are still hot. They won''t be as good once they turn cold."


    "Okay." Qin Yun nodded. He poured a cup of wine for himself before tipping his head to down it.


    For some reason, he found the taste of the wine bitter today.


    This sense of helplessness left Qin Yun filled with fury and indignation.


    "Senior Qin, let me do the honors of pouring you the alcohol," said Yiyi.


    "There''s no need. Sit down and eat with me," instructed Qin Yun. He waved his hand as chopsticks and a wine cup appeared beside her.


    Yiyi was taken aback as she sat down obediently.


    "Here, you have always been the one pouring me wine. This time, let''s drink together." Qin Yun personally poured a cup of wine for his daughter.


    Yiyi looked at the cup of wine in front of her before looking up at Qin Yun. She could not stop her tears from flowing down.


    "Young lass, what are you crying about?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I''m happy." Yiyi wiped her tears as she raised her cup.


    The father and daughter pair clinked their cups and downed the wine, each feeling their respective mixed emotions.

 449 Purging the World of Fiendcelestials

    Chapter 449: Purging the World of Fiendcelestials


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Great Chang world, Divine Firmament Chapter.


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying blast surged in the hall where Ancestral Master Zhang was cultivating in seclusion.


    Ancestral Master Zhang, who was dressed in a Daoist robe with a high headdress, sat calm and cross-legged despite the eruption that just occured. Sitting around him were twelve figures who were also sitting cross-legged. There was lightning bolts streaking across their bodies but the one with the most terrifying aura was still Ancestral Master Zhang! The terrifying aura released from his body made the void constantly tremble, to the point that several cracks appeared in the space.


    "As I expected, once the twelve Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array is infused into my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, I can really draw a wisp of Chaos Divine Lightning to descend upon me, causing my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma foundation to turn immensely robust." Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of glee. "In terms of foundation, I can match the top Lightning Dharma in the Three Realms."


    "Unfortunately, I have only created my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma to the sixth firmament! I even had to rely on the Myriad Dharma Pool to get that far." Ancestral Master Zhang sighed. "Creating a Dharmic formulation independently is just too difficult."


    "But since I have resolved to take this path, I should go all the way."


    Ancestral Master Zhang had enough patience.


    He was a Skyimmortal with unlimited life. He had more than enough patience to create a Dharmic formulation for himself! Furthermore, a self-created Dharmic formulation was typically extremely powerful. After Ancestral Master Zhang infused a sliver of Chaos Divine Lightning into his body, he was already able to match seventh or eighth firmament Skyimmortals despite being only a sixth firmament Skyimmortal.


    After holding back for so long, this sudden uprising immediately made him a powerful figure in the Effulgent dominion.


    Unfortunately¡­


    He had been forced to use the Myriad Dharma Pool, which he had planned on using to break the bottleneck of the ninth firmament Skyimmortal, way ahead of time!


    "Whoosh."


    Ancestral Master Zhang got up and waved his hand. The twelve figures around him transformed into lightning and flew into his body.


    Following that, Ancestral Master Zhang left the hall.


    Instantly, he was high in the sky.


    "Everyone." Ancestral Master Zhang held his transmission token and contacted Human Emperor, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon Palatial Lord and company.


    "Brother Zhang."


    "Divine Firmament, what''s the matter?"


    Phantoms appeared around him. They were none other than Human Emperor, Patriarch Bai, East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon Palatial Lord, and Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa.


    "Everyone, that massive array formation we discovered in the Boor Ancestral Sect left me with a persistent sense of unease ," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "If that array formation had been set up to completion, the price paid would be astounding. It certainly wouldn''t be worth whatever they gained from conquering a Small World! I believe¡­ Empyrean Lord has a special motive for going after our Great Chang world. It is not the simple conquest of a Small World."


    "Yes, I think so too. The materials used in that array formation and the armor on the hundred plus third firmament fiendcelestial guardians¡­ is truly an astounding price to pay. That Empyrean Lord must have a great ploy in the making." Patriarch Bai nodded.


    "I haven''t been able to feel at ease either," added Human Emperor.


    "It is also the reason why I have spared no expense to increase my strength in recent times," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Just today, I have decided to eliminate the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons! I will also rid our Great Chang world of all potential catastrophes, leaving not even a single flawed spatial node behind."


    "What?"


    "Eliminate all of them?"


    "Get rid of all potential catastrophes?"


    Human Emperor and company were extremely astonished.


    Many of the catastrophe sources were difficult to resolve. For example, some were inside the lairs of the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons! Some had been repressed by Human Emperor and the dragons in the past, but that was just simply repression. It was impossible to destroy the problem at its root.


    "What do you need of us?" asked East Sea Skydragon immediately.


    "Leave everything to me," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "However, I will need all of your help to clean up the aftermath."


    "That is only natural."


    "Brother Zhang is getting more powerful. Haha, it''s a blessing for our Great Chang world! It will truly be a momentous event in our Great Chang world''s history if all the fiendcelestials in the world are wiped out. It''s unfortunate that Qin Yun isn''t around to see it," said Patriarch Bai.


    "I wonder how Qin Yun is now." Skydemon Palatial Lord was a little worried.


    "Qin Yun?" Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head gently. "That Senior Brother Yellow-robed of mine is someone even the Heavenly Courts are powerless against. There''s nothing I can do except use my status as the Dao Ancestor''s personal disciple¡­ I hope that can be of some use for Qin Yun. But everything will depend on him in the end. Resolving the potential catastrophes should be done as soon as possible. I will take action now. In an hour, you can muster the manpower needed to head for the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demon nests and start the cleanup."


    "Alright."


    "Our Great Chang world has been in existence since ancient times. Finally, we are able to rid the threat of the fiendcelestial lineage completely."


    "I never expected we would see this day."


    Everyone felt excited.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and severed the transmission.


    "It''s time to set off." Ancestral Master Zhang''s mind stirred. With a series of whooshes, lightning flew out of his body and to his side. There were a total of twelve figures, their bodies sparking with lightning occasionally.


    They were the twelve Lightning Godfiends.


    "I will first head to Yi Prefecture to finish Mt Ancestral Snake.You are responsible for watching the remaining seven fiendish demon lineages. Seal the void and prevent them from escaping," instructed Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Yes, Master." The twelve Lightning Godfiends all spoke respectfully.


    They flew off¡­


    The twelve Lightning Godfiends split off into seven streams. Two were sent to the stronger of the seven lineages to watch them closely! Single units were deployed to watch the weaker ones.


    "I''ll first destroy Mt. Ancestral Snake." Ancestral Master Zhang headed straight for Mt. Ancestral Snake.


    Mt. Ancestral Snake was the most troublesome lineage among the Nine Lineage Fiendish Demons of yesteryear! It was also the one Ancestral Master Zhang wished to get rid of the most.


    ¡­


    The entire Great Chang world was in preparation to rid the world of the fiendcelestials!


    It would also see the end of all potential catastrophes!


    This was a critical period in the history of the Great Chang world.


    But far in the Skywolf world, Qin Yun did not know what was happening in his homeworld.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Yiyi unleashed her sword arts against Qin Yun in a sparring match.


    Qin Yun would at times deliberately guide her, letting Yiyi enjoy the battle as she delivered her sword arts in a smoother fashion.


    Other times, he would deliberately find the flaws in her attacks and dismantle them, showing his daughter the problems in her sword moves.


    "We shall stop for today." Qin Yun stopped.


    "Yes."


    The dragon girl smiled as she sheathed her sword. "Senior Qin, I feel like my sword arts are becoming more powerful. My Dao domain broke through to fifteen kilometers just yesterday."


    "It''s still early," said Qin Yun. "In the past, you learned everything on your own and took a lot of diversions. You only had a Dao domain of ten kilometers when you first stepped into the Dao. That''s not bad compared to ordinary cultivators, but with your talent¡­ reaching a Dao domain of only ten kilometers is considered subpar. Since you started out in a low state, you will only experience greater difficulties in the future."


    "Okay." Yiyi nodded immediately.


    Although Qin Yun spoke harshly, he was actually pretty pleased.


    Back in his dream of a hundred years, his Dao domain reached ten kilometers when he stepped into the Dao in the first world! In the second world, his second stepping into the Dao reached fifteen kilometers.


    But as he had a heart as still as an ice mirror in the second world, the Sword Dao he created was a little too cold.


    After he returned to his homeworld and entered into his real body, the roaring emotions in him made him realize the flaws in his Sword Dao. His final stepping into the Dao resulted in a Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers.


    This made for an extremely robust Sword Dao foundation. Qin Yun''s starting point in his Sword Dao was already very high, so he soared the moment his strength reached that of a Skyimmortal¡­ As for his daughter, she had cultivated for too short a period of time. She simply had far less experience than Qin Yun. It was already quite an impressive feat for her to have a Dao domain of ten kilometers the moment she stepped into the Dao. Qin Yun''s son, Meng Huan, only had a Dao domain of five kilometers when he first stepped into the Dao.


    "Go back and cultivate well. I have things to tend to in the coming day or two. Come back in three days," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll be leaving first." Yiyi smiled and departed immediately.


    As Qin Yun watched his daughter depart on a cloud, his expression turned solemn.


    "I have to rescue my daughter as soon as possible."


    "It''s unknown when Yellow-robed Supremacy will exit seclusion. I can''t just keep waiting."


    "The last time my daughter encountered danger, I was unable to interfere since it was a competition between disciples," thought Qin Yun. "Yellow-robed Supremacy arranged for the competition of the disciples and forbade Combat Generals and Guardians from interfering. No one dares to defy him. If I tried¡­Treasure Elephant Palace would probably immediately send a group of Combat Generals and Guardians to apprehend me."


    "Since I can''t interfere, am I to watch helplessly as my daughter is being hunted down?"


    Qin Yun was filled with rage and the feeling of being powerless when he watched his daughter being pursued two days ago.


    He had been constantly tormented by these emotions over the past two days.


    "There is only one way for me to have any hopes of saving my daughter."


    "That is to successfully create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation and condense an Essence Soul!"


    "That way, I will be the only other person in the Three Realms apart from the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor to create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. According to Ancestral Master Zhang, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure will likely take me in as a disciple! After I become a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor, Yellow-robed Supremacy would treat me well as a Green Touring Palace disciple even if he is capricious in nature. After all, Green Touring Palace is his backer. If he offends it, he would truly be left alone." Qin Yun understood this point.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was able to lead a carefree life despite rebelling against the Heavenly Courts.


    On one hand, it was because he was sufficiently powerful, with strength that matched Golden Immortals and Buddhas. He was also hiding in a Small World.


    On the other hand, it''s because he had Green Touring Palace backing him.


    "Over the past half year, I have been constantly perfecting my Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. I could have condensed the Essence Soul a long time ago but I simply wished for it to be as perfect as could be."


    "But I can''t delay any further."


    "I''ll do it today!"


    "I''ll attempt to condense an Essence Soul. Success or failure will all depend on this attempt."


    Qin Yun had made up his mind.


    That evening.


    He set up layers of array formations around the nameless mountain. And inside the stone house, Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a bed. Fragrance from a stick of ''Soul Beckoning Incense'' emanated through the stone house, pushing Qin Yun''s mind and heart to an extremely ethereal state.


    With everything in place, it was time to break through.

 450 Essence Soul! Essence Soul!

    Chapter 450: Essence Soul! Essence Soul!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun took out a black bottle, and a beam of light flew out of it, went into mouth, and was swallowed into his stomach. A cool feeling permeated his being as his mind and heart felt even more ethereal.


    "Phew." Qin Yun put away the black bottle and gradually breathed out as he studied his dantian inwardly.


    In the middle of his dantian floated a round purplish-gold Golden Core.


    It had been more than a year since he last attempted this breakthrough. His purplish-gold Golden Core and soul had long recovered. Furthermore, with his Sword Dao realm having broken through, his soul had been enhanced once again.


    "The breakthrough failure last time resulted in my Dharmic powers running amok. Thankfully, I remained conscious enough to bring my Dharmic powers back under control¡­ If not, I would be long dead." As Qin Yun looked inwardly at his purplish-gold Golden Core, he also felt some pressure.


    Typical breakthroughs and a breakthrough using a self-created Dharmic formulation were vastly different.


    Typical breakthroughs were done in accordance with Dharmic formulations of one''s predecessors. There was the experience of success gleaned from one generation after another. The Dharmic formulation was already very perfect! Even if one failed to condense an Essence Soul, it was typically not life-threatening.


    As for creating a Dharmic formulation independently¡­


    Who knew what was good and bad when it came to a new Dharmic formulation?


    A flawed Dharmic formulation would not only fail to condense an Essence Soul, it might even cause the Golden Core to crack.


    "Apart from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, the other sword immortal Dharmic formulations reach their apex at the Connate Golden Core realm. And mortal Connate Golden Cores only have at most five hundred years to live," thought Qin Yun. "Mortal sword immortals¡­ that can cultivate to a level like mine, with strength that matches a fourth or fifth Skyimmortal are extremely rare. At the very least, I have never heard of one in the Effulgent Great World."


    "I have dedicated myself to the path of a sword immortal. I am fully aware of the intricacies of Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers."


    "Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor simply inferred the sword immortal Dharmic formulation and even did it to the Golden Immortal level. All I''m doing is inferring a formulation to condense an Essence Soul. I will definitely succeed."


    Qin Yun did not really care about his own safety.


    Even if he died, he could reincarnate in Samsara and be received.


    He was most worried about his daughter!


    Only by successfully creating a Dharmic formulation that could condense a Sword Immortal Essence Soul would he have a chance of being made a disciple of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor! That was the only way for him to save his daughter.


    It was the only method of saving his daughter he could think of, and the only one he had any sort of confidence in.


    As for pleading with Yellow-robed Supremacy? With his temperament, would a father''s pleas even work? Qin Yun had no confidence in that.


    "It''s time."


    Qin Yun cast out all unnecessary thoughts.


    His will was as sharp as a sword as he began preparing his soul.


    "Soul, fuse!"


    His soul descended forcefully, fully immersing itself into the Golden Core. The violent intrusion into the Golden Core caused it to tremble to the point of slight fractures developing on its surface. Qin Yun''s soul and mind began humming.


    However, he remained extremely calm. This step had to be done violently, for only with force could the two elements combine deep into the core.


    "Next is the nurturing. Only by silently letting it spread and permeate fully, allowing the soul and Golden Core Dharmic powers to fuse at their roots, can an Essence Soul be nurtured." Qin Yun gradually guided the purplish-gold Golden Core and the more important soul. It was like walking on the edge of a blade as he had to be extremely careful. The slightest mistake could result in his Golden Core cracking and his Dharmic powers turning violent.


    "This nurturing is different from the direction the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor took."


    "For me, the appropriate direction to steer in should be the orthodox Daoist way, an Essence Soul that resembles a person."


    "I will stay orthodox and use the Heaven and Earth as core, and rule the Eight Desolates of the Universe."


    Qin Yun gradually nurtured without any sense of urgency.


    It was not something he could rush.


    According to experience gleaned from ordinary Essence Soul condensation of Daoists, the nurturing could be as short as two to three hours or last as long as one to two days. It was like nurturing a child, it took as much time as it needed.


    Time continued to pass¡­


    Two hours, four hours, six hours¡­


    The night gave way to morning as a sliver of light appeared across the horizon.


    However, Qin Yun was feeling a faint sense of delight and anticipation.


    He could sense it.


    Inside his purplish-gold Golden Core, a ''tiny person'' was subtly and slowly forming.


    "I am my own god."


    "I stay orthodox, my soul fully dedicated to the Sword Dao at my core. As such, I can create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul."


    While Qin Yun''s soul and Golden Core Dharmic powers fused to form an Essence Soul, he felt an ethereal lightness. Clearly, through the process of being elevated as a lifeform, Qin Yun was even more certain that he was right in the path he chose.


    ¡­


    Deep in the clouds, there were about ten figures standing there.


    Among them were the silver-robed youth and the green-dressed woman who had pursued Yiyi previously. There were also other in-name disciples.


    "Junior Brother Goldeneye, are you certain?" A black-robed youth stroked his mustache as he looked down at the vast lands, questioning a short and fat man beside him.


    The fat man''s face was lumpy as his golden eyes were emitting a golden beam as he looked down. He said smugly, "Don''t worry, Senior Brother Wuli. These eyes of mine never go wrong when it comes to seeing karma, Dharmic powers, or the light shone from providence! That dragon girl, Yiyi, is in that manor below. It''s a manor named Hu Manor and a bunch of fox demonesses reside in it. And our Junior Sister Yiyi has disguised herself as an old woman to secretly control the manor."


    "You did quite a thorough investigation," said the black-robed youth with a smile.


    "I was only able to do so after scouring the surroundings based on Junior Brother An''s intelligence." Goldeneye looked at the silver-robed youth. "If I recall correctly, Junior Sister Yiyi liked Junior Brother An the most. You also treated her very well. You have truly steeled your heart this time."


    The silver-robed youth said with a frown, "Back when we formed an alliance, we had agreed to combine forces to kill all other opponents. As for that dragon girl¡­ she is naturally one of those other opponents."


    "Alright." The black-robed youth laughed out loud. "That should be the case."


    "However, the dragon girl''s strength has increased rapidly," said the silver-robed youth. "She''s a dragon and she cultivates in the Skydragon Body! When she put all she had into escaping, even the combined efforts of Junior Sister Yu and I failed to stop her. Make sure not to let your guard down."


    "Hahaha¡­ With Senior Brother Wuli here, do you really think that dragon girl can do anything ludicrous?"


    "We have more than ten people here. If she can still escape that, we might as well kill ourselves and forget about trying to become inherited-teachings disciples."


    All of them laughed, brimming with confidence.


    "She won''t escape." The black-robed youth smiled confidently. His strength was ranked third among all the in-name disciples but he had still organized this alliance. The minimum requirement for joining the alliance was to be at the second firmament Essence Soul realm.


    In fact, many of the three hundred plus in-name disciples had formed alliances! They first joined forces to fight any outsiders¡­ It was simply too difficult to survive to the very end alone!


    As for Yiyi?


    She was a mortal early on and was completely ignored!


    "Yiyi, since you have stepped into the Essence Soul realm, your only outcome is to die. After all, only the final three survivors can become inherited-teachings disciples," Senior Brother An thought to himself.


    "Let''s move out." Senior Brother Wuli waved his hand.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The group of fellow disciples flew in the direction of Hu Manor.


    ¡­


    And in the stone house on the nameless mountain.


    Qin Yun was still nurturing his Essence Soul.


    He could already see a ''tiny person'' sitting cross-legged inside the purplish-gold Golden Core amid his dantian.


    "Whoosh."


    Everything was proceeding naturally under the most ripe conditions.


    The purplish-gold Golden Core completely opened up, revealing a ''tiny person.''


    The tiny person, who looked identical to Qin Yun, sat cross-legged. His tiny arms and legs had wisps of terrifying Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers lingering around his body like a mist.


    Suddenly, the tiny person opened his eyes.


    "Essence Soul. I, Qin Yun, have finally condensed a Sword Immortal Essence Soul." The tiny person''s eyes were filled with excitement that reflected his own.

 451 I Am Your Father

    Chapter 451: I Am Your Father


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The sword immortal lineage was quite a famous lineage of Daoism.


    However, the lineage was considered a Minor Dao. After all, there were only two sword immortals who had cultivated to the Golden Immortal level in all the Three Realms! However, both of them had stunning combat strength, forging a name for themselves as being capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword! Therefore, several mighty figures had attempted to infer a sword immortal Dharmic formulation but since they had no past knowledge to work from, all they could infer was a mortal sword immortal Dharmic formulation.


    Mortal sword immortal Dharmic formulations were very common!


    However, condensing an Essence Soul to embark on the path of immortality¡­ was only capable by one who cultivated in the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage!


    It had been as such for a long period of time!


    But from this day forth, that history had changed. A mortal sword immortal of unknown origin had blazed open a new way, one full of obstacles, and created a lineage that stood separate from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage! It could similarly condense a Sword Immortal Essence Soul!


    The Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s Essence Soul was a sword, but the newly created lineage still had an Essence Soul that resembled a person.


    "The human body naturally forms a Heavenly Cycle universe that can embody everything. I knew that this path was hopeful. I finally succeeded." Qin Yun was extremely excited. He had completed was the most difficult step.


    By stepping into the Essence Soul realm, he had eternal life as long as he endured the constant tribulations.


    However, Qin Yun''s realm was extremely high and profound. It was difficult for the tribulations to threaten him. As long as he didn''t court death, it would not be difficult for him to live in the Essence Soul realm for hundreds of thousands of years. He had plenty of time to slowly create a sword immortal lineage Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation.


    "Whoosh."


    The tiny Essence Soul person stood up. It shook its tiny limbs.


    "This feeling is quite surreal." The tiny person spoke to himself. He was about one inch tall, this Essence Soul that was the fusion of Golden Core Dharmic powers and Qin Yun''s soul!


    An Essence Soul represented Dharmic powers and also the soul. It was the fundamental entity that represented Qin Yun''s life.


    He could abandon his body but his Essence Soul had to be constantly protected.


    "My foundation has long been extremely robust. I can rapidly raise my Essence Soul to easily reach the third Firmament." Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a bottle of Spirit Pills from the Two World Picture. He planned on replenishing his Dharmic powers.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    He ate the Spirit Pills.


    The Essence Soul in him began devouring the pure spirit powers in the Spirit Pills like a bottomless hole. The mist-like Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers around the Essence Soul grew thicker as the Essence Soul slowly grew in size.


    Just as Qin Yun was constantly enhancing his Essence Soul, there was a boom that suddenly sounded, causing a hum to resonate through the Heaven and Earth.


    "Oh?"


    It made Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged on a bed, open his eyes suddenly. He took one step and appeared outside the stone house as he looked far into the distance.


    About five kilometers away, in the Hu Manor, there were three figures standing high in the sky. The three figures were looking down with a relaxed composure. One of them even shouted, "Junior Sister Yiyi, don''t waste your strength."


    "Whoosh~" A blurry dragon figure escaped to the east.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed when he saw that.


    It was his daughter!


    With Qin Yun''s Dao domain, he could instantly envelop the surrounding hundred and fifty kilometers.


    "There are a total of sixteen Yellow-robed Supremacy in-name disciples. They are scattered around the area, it seems they have set up a trap. No matter which direction my daughter flees in, there''s no way for her to escape." Qin Yun''s expression changed. He recognized the silver-robed youth and the green-dressed woman. "It''s the two of them? It seems they haven''t given up after failing to catch my daughter the last time."


    ¡­


    Yiyi was truly feeling despair at that moment.


    Her Skydragon Body allowed her to sense the danger and quickly move to leave Hu Manor, but she soon realized that there was a tight encirclement around her.


    "Junior Sister Yiyi." Two figures appeared in the distance.


    Yiyi changed directions again in a bid to flee.


    "Junior Sister Yiyi, you can''t escape." Another two demonesses appeared, giggling.


    "Stop trying to escape."


    "We already set up a massive array around this area. There''s no way you can escape."


    The senior brothers and sisters that had been laying in ambush around began showing themselves. There were twelve senior brothers powering an array formation that had an radial influence of fifty kilometers.


    Yiyi looked at her surroundings with eyes full of anxiety and despair.


    "What do I do?" The dragon girl looked at the distant nameless mountain.


    Senior Qin resided on that nameless mountain.


    "This is the Competition of the Disciples set by Master. Even Combat Generals and Guardians do not dare interfere. If Senior Qin were to take action on my behalf, he might be captured by Treasure Elephant Palace. I cannot burden him like that," thought Yiyi. Senior Qin had dedicated himself to nurturing and helping her. She cherished every person that was nice to her.


    "Besides, Senior Qin had mentioned that he had something important to do today. He''s probably not on the mountain."


    Yiyi suddenly felt free.


    She looked around her as numerous senior brothers and sisters closed in on her. Most of them were demons, with a few humans. They were all burning with killing intent.


    "I was imprisoned in the Fiendcelestial world."


    "Here in the Skywolf world, Senior Brother An, who I thought treated me the best, is similarly after my life."


    "I even thought that perhaps it would be easier if I stayed a mortal until my hundred years was up, and just let my soul be pulverized."


    "But I couldn''t accept it."


    "I really want to know who my parents are, if they are still alive. Did the fiendcelestials abduct me while they continue looking for me? Or¡­ did they abandon me? I really want to know the truth."


    "However, everything shall end here."


    Yiyi swept her gaze across the senior brothers and sisters surrounding her when it suddenly landed on the silver-robed Senior Brother An.


    "Senior Brother An," shouted Yiyi.


    Senior Brother An looked at Yiyi.


    "You always took care of me when I was young. Was it just a sham?" asked Yiyi.


    The silver-robed youth fell silent.


    "Hahaha, Junior Brother An, did you hear that? Junior Sister Yiyi is asking you a question," said the black-robed Wuli Feng with a laugh.


    "That''s right. Junior Brother An. Junior Sister Yiyi wants some closure."


    The silver-robed youth looked at Yiyi and frowned slightly. "Back when you came to the Skywolf world, you were just a child. I pitied you for being a child without any kin so I treated you a little better."


    "Pity? Without kin?" Yiyi muttered softly.


    "Junior Sister Yiyi, although you are parentless, everyone knows the relationship dragons have with Master. Even if your parents are alive¡­ there is no way you will be able to meet them. You could go your whole life searching in vain. Dragons would not dare step into the Skywolf world," said the green-dressed Senior Sister Yu with a laugh.


    "My parents¡­" Yiyi felt her heart ache.


    She knew she could not escape the calamity before her, but her parents were forever a knot in her heart.


    "Alright," Wuli Feng said. "Junior Sister Yiyi, you have already asked whatever you wished to ask. If there''s nothing else, it''s time to send you to heaven."


    A silence hung all around them.


    Yiyi took one last look at her surroundings.


    Everything had come to an end.


    No matter how indignant she felt, it was all meaningless.


    "Go ahead." Yiyi''s eyes were red as she drew her sword.


    "How pointless." Wuli Feng opened his mouth and blew out a wind!


    A violent black gale swept through the land as it surged towards Yiyi.


    Wuli Feng was ranked third among all the in-name disciples. He was powerful enough to even wrestle with ordinary Skyimmortals, so how could Yiyi be his match?


    Hum!


    Suddenly, the whistling black winds paused in midair before dissipating.


    "Oh?" Wuli Feng''s expression changed as all the other in-name disciples were alarmed.


    Far off, a linen-clothed man walked out of the void. His eyes were on Yiyi. He had a warm look but it also seemed to contain an inkling of pain.


    "Who is he?" Wuli Feng and the other in-name disciples were stunned. They could do anything they liked in the Skywolf continent. The Competition of the Disciples was something even Combat Generals and Guardians were barred from interfering with. Yet this mysterious person dared interfere?


    "Senior Qin."


    Yiyi''s expression changed drastically when she saw this. She hurriedly said anxiously, "This is a battle between disciples. You can''t interfere! You can''t!"


    She did not wish to harm him. He was a senior adept in the Sword Dao that treated her very well.


    "Speak no further." Qin Yun''s voice sounded in Yiyi''s ears. It was very gentle.


    At that moment, Qin Yun''s eyes were slightly red as he looked at his daughter.


    "Yiyi," said Qin Yun.


    Yiyi was stunned. "How¡­ how do you know my name¡­" She had always addressed herself as Dragon Nine.


    "I am your father," said Qin Yun.

 452 Apprehend Qin Yun

    Chapter 452: Apprehend Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I am your father."


    This sentence resounded in Yiyi''s ears as her mind instantly turned blank. In her daze, she even seemed to forget where she was.


    She looked at Qin Yun, who was standing right in front of her.


    "There''s no need to doubt me." Qin Yun looked at his daughter as he stopped concealing his aura.


    Their shared bloodline reached deep into the marrow and straight to one''s soul.


    That resonance and familial feeling, that attachment that could not be controlled¡­


    "Bloodline sensation?" Yiyi looked at Qin Yun as instantly, tears streamed down her cheeks.


    At that moment, memories flashed through her mind like lightning. She had been imprisoned in the Fiendcelestial world. Back then, she was only two or three and knew almost nothing. In the Skywolf world, she had no parents or backing. At five or six years of age, she was like a wild reed living on stubbornly. As a mortal, she was placed in the cruel Competition of the Disciples¡­


    She looked at Qin Yun who was standing right in front of her.


    She had thought about it many times in the past.


    Did her parents abandon her?


    Were her parents killed by the fiendcelestials?


    Or were her parents still arduously searching for her?


    But when she was certain that ''Senior Qin'' was the father she had dreamed of meeting, she felt excited and joyous! Over the past half year of interaction, ''Senior Qin'' had been a gracious senior that always treated her really well. She had even fantasized how awesome it would be if ''Senior Qin'' was her father! Yet she always immediately dismissed the thought as a wild wish, a fantasy.


    But now¡­


    It had turned into reality!


    "Dad!" Yiyi threw herself into Qin Yun''s embrace and hugged him tightly. Qin Yun could also feel his shirt being soaked by his daughter''s tears.


    Qin Yun extended his arm and hugged his daughter tightly.


    Qin Yun''s acknowledgment of Yiyi as his daughter¡­ left the bunch of in-name disciples watching this agape.


    "This mysterious person is her father?"


    "Wasn''t it said that Junior Sister Yiyi is parentless? She was even brought back by Master from a Fiendcelestial world at a very young age. Where did this father come from?"


    "They have already acknowledged each other. It must be true."


    "But this father of hers is a fool. He actually interfered in the Competition of the Disciples."


    "How true it is that blood runs deep. He even dared defy Master''s order." These in-name disciples engaged in a flurry of discussion and remained relax. In the Skywolf world, Yellow-robed Supremacy enjoyed the highest status. The rules he set were not something his Combat Generals or Guardians dared defy.


    "Whoever he is, he''s doomed for defying Master''s orders." Wuli Feng sneered as the other in-name disciples nodded.


    ******


    Treasure Elephant Palace.


    In a hall, projections showing the three hundred plus in-name disciples floated in midair.


    A group of cultivators were monitoring them at all times.


    "This dragon girl, Yiyi is dead."


    "Wuli Feng and company number sixteen people. Dragon Girl Yiyi doesn''t even have a shred of hope."


    The cultivators were still engaging in their discussions.


    They were already quite accustomed seeing the disciples kill one another. As long as no powerful expert appeared to interfere in the Competition of the Disciples, they had no reason to care about what they saw.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s the newly promoted Guardian, Qin Yun."


    "Why did he dare interfere? He should know the rules."


    The bunch of cultivators were stunned when they saw Qin Yun appear and nullify Wuli Feng''s black wind.


    The new Guardian? He dared defy Yellow-robed Supremacy''s ban?


    In the hall, there was an elder in charge of monitoring the cultivators. His expression sank as he said clearly, "Newly-promoted Guardian, Qin Yun, has defied Supremacy''s ban. He has interfered in the Competition of the Disciples. All Combat Generals and Guardians please take action to rapidly apprehend him. His punishment shall be meted out when Supremacy exits seclusion."


    His voice carried to the ears of every Combat General and Guardian in the Skywolf continent except Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    In a particular cave abode in Treasure Elephant Palace.


    Chufu was leisurely burnishing the divine sword in his hand. He enjoyed burnishing swords even back when he was a mortal. Despite the many years he had lived, he kept up with this habit. While burnishing the sword, he would feel especially ethereal both in heart and mind, as though his heart was one with the sword.


    "Newly-promoted Guardian, Qin Yun, has defied Supremacy''s ban. He has interfered in the Competition of the Disciples. All Combat Generals and Guardians please take action to rapidly apprehend him. His punishment shall be meted out when Supremacy exits seclusion."


    An elder''s phantom appeared in midair speaking these words.


    Accompanying him was a projection. It showed the sixteen in-name disciples surrounding Yiyi, as well as Qin Yun appearing to stop them.


    Chufu was stunned.


    "Brother Qin Yun, he¡­" Chufu found it unbelievable.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Two figures descended into the cave abode. They were the Combat Generals, Menggu and Lizhu.


    "Chufu, what''s the matter?" Menggu asked anxiously. Although Lizhu was blind, he could still sense everything around him clearly.


    "How would I know? Why is Brother Qin Yun so foolish as to interfere with the Competition of the Disciples?" Chufu hurriedly took out a transmission token and inquired, "Brother Fugao, what happened?"


    "Brother Chufu, we just discovered that Guardian Qin Yun is likely Dragon Girl Yiyi''s father. Of course he took action when she was about to be killed," replied the elder. "But no matter the circumstances, defiance of Supremacy''s orders requires us to enforce his rules. He shall first be apprehended."


    "Qin Yun is that dragon girl''s father?" Chufu was taken aback.


    "Isn''t that Yiyi an orphan? Wasn''t she taken back by Brother from a distant Fiendcelestial world?" Menggu was puzzled as well.


    "Perhaps he came from a distant world in search of his daughter before finally coming to the Skywolf world." The handsome blind man, Lizhu, sighed lightly. "He''s quite a sentimental person but what a pity."


    "Let''s go. Make haste." Chufu urged.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The three of them transformed into streams of light as they flew out of Treasure Elephant Palace.


    The entire Skywolf continent was maintained to be an impregnable piece of land. Even the void around it was completely sealed. There was no way to do Void Transference! Chufu and company had to fly as well. Only Yellow-robed Supremacy was capable of Void Transference in the Skywolf continent.


    "Chufu, that Qin Yun is your subordinate, right? Is this how you manage your men? He actually dared to interfere in the Competition of the Disciples." Several streams of light flew over from a distance. Leading them was a cold-looking man dressed in black armor. He held a trident in his hand and looked ferocious.


    "Wuli Jiushou, do you have what it takes to meddle in our affairs?" scoffed Menggu.


    "The Competition of the Disciples organized by Brother is not to be defied! Since it was one of yours that caused trouble, let''s see how you explain this matter to Brother." Wuli Jiushou sneered.


    "Chufu, I urge you cut ties with that Qin Yun! You know Brother''s temper," a beautiful woman beside Wuli Jiushou said with a smile.


    "Dear, there''s no point in warning them. They will not heed it," said Wuli Jiushou.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Both factions quickly split apart but all of them were heading for a common destination.


    ¡­


    This event shocked many Combat Generals and Guardians.


    "A newly promoted Guardian dared to defy Supremacy''s ban? He interfered in the Competition of the Disciples?"


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Combat Generals and Guardians either flew out of Treasure Elephant Palace or from their reclusive spots in the Skywolf continent and into the sky.


    "Brother Tongzhu, many Combat Generals and Guardians are rushing over. Aren''t you going to take a look?"


    "It''s just a newly promoted Guardian? I''ve never heard of him before. A bunch of Combat Generals are already rushing there to apprehend him, and he''s just a mere Guardian. There''s no need for me to join the fray." One of the twenty-nine Combat Generals under Yellow-robed Supremacy, Tongzhu Yan, who was rather influential, could not even be bothered with the matter.


    ******


    Yiyi immediately tore away from Qin Yun and said, "Dad, leave quickly! Leave now! Do not meddle in my affairs. I''m an in-name disciple of Supremacy. The Competition of the Disciples¡­ disallows any interference by outsiders."


    "I have already taken action." Qin Yun looked at his daughter.


    Yiyi''s face turned pale.


    That''s right.


    By saving her, Qin Yun had already taken action.


    "It''s too late for regret." Among the distant group of in-name disciples, their leader, the black-robed Wuli Feng, laughed out loudly, "By taking action, you have violated Master''s rule. I believe the Combat Generals and Guardians are already rushing here to apprehend you."


    "What do we do?" Yiyi was a little anxious.


    "If you just stay away and promise to no longer interfere in our matters, perhaps Master would be lenient. But if you continue to foolishly interfere with the Competition of the Disciples, knowing Master''s temper, there is zero chance for your survival," said Wuli Feng with a scoff.


    "Leave this place quickly. The battles between us disciples are not something you can interfere in." Another in-name disciple shouted with a laugh.


    Qin Yun scanned the numerous in-name disciples with a glance and said, "Yiyi is my daughter. No one is to harm her."


    "What arrogance." Wuli Feng''s expression sank as he roared, "You are only at the Essence Soul realm. I''m quite interested in seeing how capable you are."


    With that said, he flipped his hand and produced a spear. He transformed into a black wind that surged at Qin Yun.


    Wuli Feng was quite confident in himself.


    "Hmph!"


    Qin Yun looked more irritated than anything as he flicked his sleeve.


    Boom!


    A terrifying Sword Qi surged at Wuli Feng like a strong gust of wind.


    Wuli Feng only felt the terrifying might press down on him as he tried his best to brandish his spear to stab forward. Yet, with a light explosive sound, he was struck by the Sword Qi wave and sent flying backwards, blood spewing from his mouth.


    The other in-name disciples could not help but have their jaws drop.


    "He managed to defeat Senior Brother Wuli so utterly with just a flick of his sleeve?"


    "This gap is just too great. Is he really at the Essence Soul realm?"


    "Junior Sister Yiyi''s father is way too powerful. His strength is absolutely not something the average Skyimmortal or Skydemon can match." The other in-name disciples did not dare step forward after seeing Wuli Feng suffer such a defeat.


    At that moment¡ª


    Qin Yun looked up into the distance.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Streams of light descended one after another.


    Among them were Combat Generals that had a more favorable relationship with Qin Yun such as Chufu, Menggu, Lizhu. There were also some he had never met before. There were a total of nine Combat Generals that had rushed over from Treasure Elephant Palace together.


    Wuli Jiushou and the beautiful woman had seen Wuli Feng''s failed charge. Their eyes were filled with rage.


    "Qin Yun, you are just a mere Guardian. How dare you!" Wuli Jiushou held up his trident as he bellowed coldly.

 453 Facing the Combat Generals

    Chapter 453: Facing the Combat Generals


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The might of nine Combat Generals was naturally a terrifying thing to face.


    Wuli Feng, Senior Brother An, and the other in-name disciples immediately flew behind the group of Combat Generals.


    Among the Combat Generals, the cold-looking Wuli Jiushou, who was dressed in black armor and held a trident in his hand, and Manor Lord Chufu, who had a sword slung on his back, stood slightly in the forefront.


    "It''s him? Wuli Jiushou?" thought Qin Yun. "According to what Brother Chufu told me, the twenty-nine Combat Generals are split into three major factions."


    "The three factions are led by Brother Chufu, Wuli Jiushou, and Tongzhu Yan."


    "Wuli Jiushou and Brother Chufu have been following Yellow-robed Supremacy since they were in the Heavenly Courts together. As for Tongzhu Yan, he has blood ties with Yellow-robed Supremacy that go back to the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts. His standing is extraordinary but Tongzhu Yan does not go out of his way to befriend other Combat Generals. His faction only has three Combat Generals, all old friends from the Ancient Heavenly Courts era."


    Many thoughts flashed across Qin Yun''s mind as he ruminated over the situation in front of him.


    After Wuli Jiushou berated Qin Yun coldly, he turned to look at Chufu and said with a scoff, "Chufu, this Qin Yun is a swordmaster of your Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. You will not try to stop me if I capture him, will you?"


    Chufu sighed lightly as he looked deeply at Qin Yun before saying, "Qin Yun has defied Supremacy''s ban. He deserves what he gets! However, his punishment should be left until Supremacy exits seclusion. Supremacy will make the decision."


    "Well said! He gets what he deserves!" Only then did Wuli Jiushou glance coldly at Qin Yun and shout, "Guardian Qin Yun, if you know any better, surrender and submit without a fuss."


    "Dad!"


    Yiyi, who was standing behind Qin Yun, turned anxious.


    She realized her father had become a new Guardian of the Skywolf world! But against the gathered Combat Generals and Supremacy''s absolute rule, that meant nothing.


    "Submit and surrender," Chufu said with a sigh. "Resistance is futile."


    "Brother Chufu, if I submit and surrender, what will happen to my daughter?" asked Qin Yun.


    Chufu fell silent.


    Wuli Jiushou sneered and said, "You can''t interfere in the Competition of the Disciples and neither can we. After you are apprehended, everything will naturally continue as it was, unhindered. They will continue their battle and their lives will be determined by fate."


    "Determined by fate? Isn''t that just letting my daughter die?" Qin Yun''s gaze swept across the nine Combat Generals. "I, Qin Yun, came from my homeworld to the Skywolf world to find my long-lost daughter. Now that I''ve found her, I''ll definitely protect her with all I have."


    Yiyi looked at her father who was standing in front of her.


    This was her father!


    For her, he was willing to face everything.


    "Dad," Yiyi said, "This is a rule set by Master. Dad, ignore me."


    Qin Yun turned to look at his daughter. "Don''t worry. I''ll bring you back to our homeworld. Your mom is still waiting for you there."


    "My mom?" Yiyi was taken aback.


    "Hahaha¡­ How touching." Wuli Jiushou laughed out loud. "To think a mere Guardian like you thinks he can resist. What a joke."


    "Since he wants to be stubborn, let''s take him down first." The beautiful woman beside him extended her hand.


    Hua!


    A gigantic azure-colored palm appeared in midair and grabbed at Qin Yun!


    The azure-colored hand had many palm lines, giving it an imposing might.


    "Sorry for troubling you, my wife." Wuli Jiushou said with a faint smile.


    Chufu and company watched, with Menggu being the most anxious. He could not help but look at Chufu and send a voice transmission. "Chufu, are we really going to do nothing?"


    "Bear with it." Chufu berated him with a voice transmission. "Qin Yun violated the ban. No one can save him now."


    Faint flames rose in Menggu''s eyes but he could only endure as Chufu said.


    The group of in-name disciples were watching in excitement. It was very rare to see Combat Generals use their abilities against a Guardian. Wuli Feng shared a voice transmission with the others, "It will naturally be easy to capture a newly-promoted Guardian with my patriarch''s Sky Capture Hand."


    "Go."


    Against the gigantic azure-colored hand, Qin Yun waved his hand and sent a wisp of misty rain flying out of his fingertip. After it flew out, the Misty Rain Sword flash expanded into a terrifying sword flash a thousand feet wide. The might left one shuddering in fear! The sword flash brought with it a strength that could render the world asunder. It cleaved with formidable power at the gigantic azure-colored hand.


    "Rumble!" With a loud boom, the azure-colored hand shattered instantly.


    The beautiful woman''s expression changed as a few scales surfaces on her face. She shouted, "You do have a few tricks. Try receiving an attack from my Dharma treasure!" She waved her hand, and the pale yellow scarf draped over her body flew out. What looked like an ordinary piece of cloth rapidly expanded in size and length.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Instantly, there were long pieces of cloth interspersing each other. There were beautiful women embroidered on the cloth, and they seemed to move as if dancing. The long pieces of cloth rapidly swirled towards Qin Yun. There were also pieces of cloth that tried to entrap Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword.


    "Bam!"


    When the Misty Rain Sword collided with the cloth in the sky, a piece of cloth tore apart but more pieces of cloth swirled over.


    "Unending in nature. I''m barely able to tear apart a handful of cloth but more still bear down on me. Once I''m surrounded by them, I''ll lose." Qin Yun''s mind stirred. "Fireworks!"


    The Dreamlike Sword''s Fireworks.


    With Qin Yun''s realm increasingly so tremendously, his Dreamlike Sword had experienced a complete overhaul. All its attacks were equally strong but each had their own unique traits.


    Fireworks was good at repelling an area-of-effect attack. With its recent upgrade it could split into nearly a hundred sword flashes. Each sword flash would still contain nearly thirty percent of the Misty Rain Sword''s total strength.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    In midair, the Misty Rain Sword instantly manifested as dozens of dazzling sword flashes like fireworks that were extremely resplendent.


    Explosive booms sounded incessantly.


    Under the glaring sword flashes, many pieces of cloth exploded, clearing the sky of its dominance. The beautiful woman who controlled the Dharma treasure turned pale in the face. As she received a backlash from her Dharmic powers, blood seeped out the corner of her mouth. Only one piece of cloth was left in midair, so it rapidly flew back onto her body.


    The beautiful woman now had a nasty expression. As for the Misty Rain Sword, it streaked out a curved trajectory and flew back to Qin Yun''s side.


    "My wife." Wuli Jiushou helped the beautiful woman up immediately.


    "This Qin Yun''s flying sword can split into dozens of sword flashes. Every sword flash has the might of a fourth firmament Skydemon," said the woman with a voice transmission. "His true strength is enough to match Combat Generals. I can''t take him down. Among the few of us here, only you might have the absolute strength needed to take him down."


    "Alright." Wuli Jiushou nodded slightly.


    For him to become the leader of one of the three factions under Yellow-robed Supremacy, he naturally possessed extraordinary might.


    Each of the three factions had their respective leaders.


    Chufu was held in high esteem for his character, but in terms of strength he was equal to Menggu. He was only ranked in the top five among the twenty-nine Combat Generals.


    As for Wuli Jiushou, he was extremely strong. He could be ranked either first or second among the twenty-nine Combat Generals.


    The combined forces of Chufu and Menggu were only capable of matching Wuli Jiushou.


    "Beautiful." Menggu and the handsome blind man revealed looks of shock.


    Chufu looked at Qin Yun in astonishment. "Yunshe actually suffered terribly at the hands of Qin Yun?"


    "Chufu, this Brother Qin Yun is really powerful. Although he''s only at the Essence Soul realm, he can match a fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortal," said Menggu via voice transmission. "By the way, I recall that the first time I met him, he was only a mortal, right?"


    "Yes, he was only a mortal back then but he is now at the Essence Soul realm. Logically speaking, with his realm, he should have long become a Skyimmortal." Chufu nodded as well. "However, any further resistance is pointless. Wuli Jiushou''s strength for exceeds Yunshe''s."


    "Yea." Menggu fell silent.


    Elsewhere.


    Wuli Jiushou exchanged a few words with the beautiful woman before stepping forward with a cold expression. He glared at Qin Yun. "You are quite powerful, to be a mere Guardian that requires my personal attention. Be careful."


    Qin Yun turned serious as he could not help but be drawn to the trident in Wuli Jiushou''s hand.


    "Fiend Cloud Trident. According to the information given to me by Brother Chufu, it is a supreme-grade Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun.


    Ordinary Numinous treasures were classified as either inferior-grade, medial-grade, or superior-grade. Inferior grade ones were considered quite common in the Three Realms but supreme-grade Numinous treasures were very rare in all corners of the Three Realms. The reason was that¡­ it was the greatest achievement in all artifact refinement! As for the even higher grade Connate Numinous treasures, they were only born out of the Chaos. Similarly, Merit Numinous treasures had to be obtained by injecting massive amounts of merit into them.


    Therefore, Dharma treasures that could be refined purely through skill hit their limit at the supreme-grade.


    It was very difficult even for Golden Immortals and Buddhas to refine a supreme-grade Numinous treasures. Many of the supreme-grade Numinous treasures in the Three Realms were created by the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestors. Supreme-grade Numinous treasures were only discovered by chance. It was fool''s talk to use dozens of superior-grade Numinous treasures to exchange for one supreme-grade Numinous treasure. It was only because Yellow-robed Supremacy had treasures that were in no way inferior to Golden Immortals or Buddhas that he could bestow Wuli Jiushou with a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. After all, Wuli Jiushou was one of his best Combat Generals. Many of his loyal Combat Generals had been bestowed with supreme-grade Numinous treasures.


    "Take this!" Wuli Jiushou attacked flagrantly as he cleaved with the Fiend Cloud Trident.


    "Boom!"


    The world itself gave a faint resonating hum as the Fiend Cloud Trident cleaved over, as though the weapon carried all the power in the world.


    "They''re doomed."


    "Wuli Jiushou has attacked. He won''t be able to resist any longer." The Combat Generals, including Chufu, held no doubts about Qin Yun''s fate.

 454 Appearance of Supremacy

    Chapter 454: Appearance of Supremacy


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yiyi could not help but be horrified by the attack.


    Qin Yun was extremely serious. Over the past half year since he had experienced a breakthrough in his Sword Dao, he had often meditated over Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art. It benefited him greatly. He was not threatened in any way when pit against Yunshe, but Wuli Jiushou''s initial attack was enough to make him feel repressed.


    "Break." Qin Yun put his Dharmic powers into his Misty Rain Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword streaked across the sky as a sword flash that spanned a thousand feet. It cleaved at the Fiend Cloud Trident in the same mighty way Pangu had brandished his ax to split the Heaven from Earth.


    "Bam!"


    A deep and dull sound rumbled when the two weapons collided.


    The force of the Misty Rain Sword''s attack seemed to be devoured by the Fiend Cloud Trident. The trident had paused slightly, and it was enough to make Wuli Jiushou reveal a hint of shock. However, his body still rapidly came at Qin Yun in a phased state.


    "As expected of a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. Even if Wuli Jiushou can only bring out a portion of this supreme-grade Numinous treasure''s might, it is still very terrifying. I have to avoid it." With a thought from Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Sword instantly flew so fast it produced numerous afterimages. Its trajectory turned unpredictable as it surrounded Wuli Jiushou and unleashed a relentless barrage of attacks. This was none other than the Seven Kills Sword''s Waning Waxing Moons.


    Waning Waxing Moons was all about odd and unpredictable changes.


    Instantly, dozens of sword shadows assaulted Wuli Jiushou from various directions.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!" Wuli Jiushou brandished his Fiend Cloud Trident as it stirred the wind and clouds. He was ranked first or second among the twenty-nine Combat Generals for a reason. He was very skilled in melee combat but he also put up an impregnable defense.


    Qin Yun could also sense the Misty Rain Sword seemingly fall into a vortex upon approach. However, the Misty Rain Sword retreated upon contact, fully expressing its unpredictability.


    "What an impressive flying sword. How is he able to control a sword so deftly? Is he a sword immortal?" Wuli Jiushou speculated inwardly. "The only sword immortals in the Three Realms that can condense an Essence Soul are from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. That group of Grand Supreme sword immortals are not to be provoked. If one is killed, the rest will respond in kind. But if he''s really from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, why would he be willing to become a Guardian?"


    "Yes, if he''s a Guardian, it means he''s not a Grand Supreme sword immortal! He must have just obtained a powerful sword Numinous treasure and happens to be good at controlling it." Wuli Jiushou had this thought in mind when suddenly¡ª


    The Misty Rain Sword was attacking in its unfathomable manner until the Fiend Cloud Trident delivered an excellent parry that sent it back. Without hesitating, it delivered a new attack.


    The sixth move of the Dreamlike Sword¡ªFirst Lightning Encounter.


    "Bam!"


    The Misty Rain Sword and the Fiend Cloud Trident collided once again. But this time, the collision was light. It did not even produce any shock waves.


    However, the converged strength was transmitted straight into Wuli Jiushou''s arm through the Fiend Cloud Trident, and went deep into his body.


    Even though the Misty Rain Sword had delivered less of its usual strength, the remnant might was able to make Wuli Jiushou''s body turn heavy. His lifeblood began to boil over as he swung his Fiend Cloud Trident a little slower.


    "Pfft!"


    The Misty Rain Sword immediately followed up with another strike.


    Wuli Jiushou, who had lost some speed with his Fiend Cloud Trident, failed to block the Misty Rain Sword, allowing it to stab into his chest. His black armor was a rare superior-grade Numinous treasure armor but Qin Yun''s attack was the tricky First Lightning Encounter. The superior-grade Numinous treasure armor was only able to weaken a portion of its might as the remnant forces seeped straight into Wuli Jiushou''s body.


    "Hmph." Wuli Jiushou felt his body convulse as a mouthful of blood rushed up to his mouth. His expression flushed red.


    This alarmed the spectating Yunshe, Chufu, Menggu, and all the other Combat Generals.


    A newly promoted Guardian did this?


    He actually managed to place Wuli Jiushou at a disadvantage?


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Woosh!" Another huge group of figures arrived obstreperously. Among them were six Combat Generals and dozens of Guardians. They were in no hurry and had been flying leisurely. They were even watching the distant battle using a spell. When they realized that Yunshe was no match for Qin Yun, they immediately sped up and finally arrived.


    "What''s happening?"


    "Even Wuli Jiushou is at a disadvantage?" The group of Combat Generals and a large number of Guardians found it unbelievable.


    As for the sixteen in-name disciples from before, they kept even lower profiles when they found themselves in the middle of a large group of Combat Generals and Guardians with powerful auras. However, they were also astounded by the man named Qin Yun who stood in front of Yiyi.


    Had he really managed to single-handedly resist Wuli Jiushou, who enjoyed an extremely high standing among the Combat Generals?


    "Who exactly is Junior Sister Yiyi''s father?"


    "He''s only at the Essence Soul realm despite being so powerful?"


    "Does he have some special origin?" They mumbled in secret.


    ¡­


    The spectators were alarmed. Wuli Jiushou was feeling embarrassed. What was his identity? He had actually been injured by an Essence Soul.


    "Hmph, I had planned on capturing you alive so I was holding back. I never expected this. It looks like I have underestimated you." Wuli Jiushou sneered as his body started to shift and twist.


    Boom!


    He became a gigantic humanoid demon that was ten thousand feet tall. Although he still had a humanoid body, he now had a grotesque and ugly fish head on top of it. The fish whiskers flailed in the sky as clouds naturally seemed to swirl around him.


    "He has revealed his true form. To think Wuli Jiushou has been forced into this state." Chufu and company thought secretly.


    "Boom!!!"


    The Fiend Cloud Trident that had similarly expanded to tens of thousands of feet long swept over like a heavenly column. It carried immense clouds with it as its might was much more immense than before.


    Qin Yun stood in front of his daughter, his eyes sharp while he controlled his Misty Rain Sword to tear through the surging wave and clash with the trident.


    "Bam!"


    Now, the First Lightning Encounter was being blocked by the layers of clouds. Even though layers upon layers of clouds were torn through, it still had a ways to go to intercept the Fiend Cloud Trident''s surface.


    Despite the obstruction of the clouds, the flying sword was still able to permeate some of the converged force. It delivered some of its power into Wuli Jiushou''s body but the remnant forces were just too weak. Wuli Jiushou was able to completely ignore it as he stared viciously at Qin Yun.


    "Bright Moon Cold Nights."


    "A Thousand Hates."


    "Stars Like Rain."


    Numerous sword moves were cast one after another.


    It could be the descent of an extremely cold domain, the relentless assaults of a thunderstorm, or an extremely keen sword move.


    No matter what, the Fiend Cloud Trident managed to fend off all of them.


    "Qin Yun, Wuli Jiushou''s use of the Fiend Cloud Trident at full strength is able to match a seventh or eighth firmament Skydemon. If you can''t withstand it, quickly admit defeat. Do not let yourself be killed in a single strike of his trident." Chufu sent a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun gave the distant Chufu a glance. He had really let Chufu down this time.


    "Boom!"


    The Fiend Cloud Trident was already in front of him.


    "Cyclic Sword Flash!" Qin Yun cast the sword move he was most skilled at. It also represented the pinnacle of his Sword Dao.


    "Hum¨C"


    The Cyclic Sword Flash, which was like a curtain of water, formed a gigantic sword flash sphere, enveloping Qin Yun and Yiyi within its thousand-foot barrier.


    "Boom!"


    The Fiend Cloud Trident possessed a terrifying might that pounded the Cyclic Sword Flash. The spot that was struck depressed as the water curtain began churning, dissipating the force across the entire Cyclic Sword Flash. Following that, the depressed spot was restored.


    "Oh?" The eyes on Wuli Jiushou''s ugly fish head were filled with shock.


    "Fiend Cloud Tear." Wuli Jiushou was incensed.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The Fiend Cloud Trident struck again and again. The Cyclic Sword Flash depressed each time but still managed to withstand each attack.


    Qin Yun reflected inwardly when he saw this. "In terms of foundation, I''m probably better than Arhat Tenside and Ape Fiend Junior of the Effulgent Great World. They are both peak third firmament Essence Souls. Their Dharmic powers are no way weaker than third Firmament Skyimmortals. My Sword Dao realm is even higher. The Dharmic formulation used to condense my Essence Soul was created personally. My Dharmic powers are probably comparable to a third firmament Skyimmortal of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage."


    As a mortal, he had a purplish-gold Golden Core foundation.


    His Essence Soul realm had a similarly extremely robust foundation.


    "Fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortals of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage are all able to fight people above their levels. They can probably beat Wuli Jiushou to a pulp!" thought Qin Yun. "Compared to them, my Dharmic powers and weapon are slightly weaker. I should be able to deliver the strength of an ordinary sixth firmament Skyimmortal. Although I''m not Wuli Jiushou''s match, I can still survive against him."


    "The Dharmic formulation I used to condense an Essence Soul used the Heavenly Cycle Sword Dao as its foundation. My Cyclic Sword Flash is what I''m best at," thought Qin Yun.


    The Heavenly Cycle Sword Dao pursued ultimate perfection.


    A perfected Heavenly Cycle¡­ was similarly and extremely, an unbreakable defense.


    ¡­


    Wuli Jiushou was attacking with all his might, forcing Qin Yun into a defensive posture. However, he was unable to break through his final defense.


    It placed Yunshe and the other Combat Generals and Guardians at a loss.


    "Sister-in-law, what do we do?" A Combat General beside her asked with a voice transmission. "Should we help?"


    "Jiushou''s strength far exceeds ours. Even if we were to help, we might not be able to crack that sword barrier," replied Yunshe through a voice transmission. "It will be even more embarrassing if several Combat Generals fail to crack it."


    "Yea." The companion beside her nodded slightly.


    Wuli Jiushou continuing this one-on-one fight sounded better.


    As for them combining forces? It would be alright if they successfully cracked the barrier but they would only be more embarrassed if their combined efforts failed.


    ******


    In Treasure Elephant Palace.


    It was desolate and quiet in the palace where Yellow-robed Supremacy resided. There was not even a single attendant in its halls.


    A Daoist-robed man covered in yellow fur was leaning against a pillar along a corridor. He was in a drunken stupor.


    It was said that Supremacy was in seclusion¡­


    But in fact, at his realm, a true seclusion would take thousands if not tens of thousands of years. Although he claimed to be in seclusion, he truly meant that he did not wish to meet any of his subordinates. He wanted to stay in silent solitude.


    He was inebriated from his years of constant drinking.


    The man waved his hand as projections appeared beside him.


    "Dad! Dad!"


    Two children ran over as a beautiful woman watched smilingly from the side.


    Back then, he carried one child in each hand chuckling. His smile was radiant.


    The projection dissipated.


    The man cried even as he laughed, as though he were deranged. He continued drinking his alcohol, so sloppily that it stained his clothes.


    "Oh?"


    He suddenly turned his head, and his cold gaze penetrated all the obstructions and into the distance. He saw the scene of Wuli Jiushou and company attempting the capture of Qin Yun.


    "They can''t even take down a mere Guardian." The yellow-furred man in the Daoist robe threw the alcohol flask and it smashed onto the ground a distance away.


    He vanished into thin air.


    ¡­


    Wuli Jiushou was furiously brandishing his Fiend Cloud Trident as his strikes seemed to make the world shake. Yet he was unable to do a thing to the Cyclic Sword Flash. The Combat Generals and Guardians watching on the side, as well as the in-name disciples, were either in a dilemma or stunned agape. None of them knew what was to be done.


    Suddenly, a figure appeared silently.


    He was dressed in an ordinary Daoist robe, his body covered in yellow fur. Clearly, he was a demon and his eyes were cold.


    Wuli Jiushou was keeping mind of his surroundings constantly. The moment he discovered the newcomer, he immediately shrunk to his original state in shock. He, together with Yunshe, Chufu, Menggu, and the other Combat Generals and Guardians, bowed reverently. "Supremacy."


    "Master." The sixteen in-name disciples, including Senior Brother An, were extremely respectful, not even daring to take a breath.


    "Master." Yiyi was slightly slower. With the color in her face drained, she immediately bowed reverently.


    When Qin Yun saw the yellow-furred man, he could sense his terrifyingly cold and sinister aura. The aura emanated flagrantly, as though the explosion of just a sliver of it would be enough to reduce him to smithereens. Qin Yun immediately dispelled his Cyclic Sword Flash and bowed reverentially. "Supremacy."

 455 Qin Yuns Origins

    Chapter 455: Qin Yun''s Origins


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "You are Qin Yun? You''re quite gutsy, to dare come to my Skywolf world for a rescue mission." The yellow-furred man in a Daoist robe stood there, his cold eyes scrutinizing Qin Yun.


    Chufu, Menggu, Lizhu, and company were worried for Qin Yun but none of them dared speak.


    Even Wuli Jiushou, Yunshe and the other Combat Generals and Guardians stood obediently to the side. The group of in-name disciples were watching nervously.


    "Master..." Yiyi said anxiously.


    Qin Yun extended his hand to hold back his daughter as he bowed slightly. "Supremacy, to be honest, back when my daughter was born, she was abducted by fiendcelestials. My wife has been living these years in tears every day. About a year ago, I learned that my daughter was in the Skywolf world and came all the way here. I fought for the status of Guardian and came to meet my daughter¡­ After learning of your strict rules, I have been constantly holding back. I did not even reveal my identity to my own daughter. But if I had not taken action just now, my daughter would have been killed. In my anxiousness, I took action."


    "Brother," said Chufu through a voice transmission. "Qin Yun has already become a member of my Dao Seeking Sword Mansion. He is absolutely willing to be a Guardian! He only acted out because he''s worried for his daughter."


    Yellow-robed Supremacy swept his cold gaze towards Chufu.


    Chufu immediately lowered his head and did not dare say another word.


    "Brother, Qin Yun is absolutely formidable. The strength he produces at only the Essence Soul realm probably matches that of a sixth firmament Skyimmortal. Wuli Jiushou''s desperate assaults were utterly futile on him." Menggu spoke out loudly. The corners of Wuli Jiushou''s eyes tightened as he glared at Menggu.


    "Shut up," Yellow-robed Supremacy frowned and said lightly.


    Of his old subordinates, Menggu had the most fiery temper due to his Mighty God Zhurong bloodline. Therefore, Yellow-robed Supremacy was more tolerant of him since he was the only one with the fiery temper.


    "Okay." Menggu responded and did not speak further.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy shot a glance at Qin Yun and said indifferently, "What do you wish to do by coming to the Skywolf world? Take your daughter away with you?"


    Qin Yun said politely, "Among the in-name disciples, my daughter is just too young and weak. Even if she continues taking part in this competition, she can only end up dead. Supremacy, perhaps you can spare her life. Treat it as though she had failed and had been eliminated from the Competition of the Disciples, so that the both of us, father and daughter, can reunite. I will definitely¡­"


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Yellow-robed Supremacy roared with laughter, a maniacal cackle that resounded through the area.


    Qin Yun was somewhat taken aback. No one dared to say a word as the ear-piercing laughter echoed.


    "Father and daughter can reunite?" A fierce glint flashed in Yellow-robed Supremacy''s eyes. "What is this? Did you hear some stories about me and come to think I would take pity on you?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. "No, I was only¡­"


    "You come to plead with me. He comes to plead with me. Everyone comes to plead with me. Then, what is the point of having rules?" Yellow-robed Supremacy sneered. "The Competition of the Disciples I set requires all disciples to obey the rules. Either they survive to become the last three inherited-teachings disciples or they die! That is the rule!"


    Qin Yun held back as he wanted to continue with his back lowered.


    "Besides, strength is everything in this world!" Yellow-robed Supremacy sneered. "Without strength, you are nothing but an end. No matter what flowery words you say, it''s nothing but a fart."


    "Supremacy." Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a token. "This is a memento of my good friend, Daoist Divine Firmament. He too cultivates in the Green Touring Palace and is a Dao Ancestor disciple. Supremacy, you can contact him through it." With that said, he threw the memento to Supremacy.


    "Dao Ancestor disciple?"


    Chufu, Wuli Jiushou, Yunshe, and all the other Combat Generals and Guardians, including the in-name disciples, looked at Qin Yun in astonishment.


    He had quite a backing after all.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy glanced at the memento after grabbing it. A crack sounded as he crushed it to dust. Then he opened his palm to let the dust slip through his finger cracks.


    The color in Qin Yun''s face drained.


    "Green Touring Palace has tens of thousands of disciples. I might take into account the mementos of Senior Sister Wusheng and others, people who I''m indebted to," scoffed Yellow-robed Supremacy. "But you want me to break my rules based on the memento of some junior brother I''ve never even met?"


    "Alright. I''m in no mood to continue this nonsense." Yellow-robed Supremacy sneered. "Speak. Who told you that your daughter is in the Skywolf world? The Skywolf continent is completely sealed. Only mighty figures can spy on it. Who is the mighty figure backing you?"


    "Mighty figure? Chufu, Brother Qin Yun actually has a mighty figure backing him?" Menggu widened his eyes as he could not help but send a voice transmission to Chufu.


    "His daughter has always resided in the Skywolf continent. Logically speaking, it is difficult for anyone in the outside world to spy on the Skywolf continent unless they are mighty figures." Chufu looked at Qin Yun with astonishment as well. "It''s no wonder he was able to become Guardian as a mortal. I never expected there to be a mighty figure helping him."


    "Mighty figure?"


    Wuli Jiushou and company were astounded as well.


    Senior Brother An, Wuli Feng, and the other in-name disciples found it unbelievable. Mighty figures were practically legends to them.


    "What origins does Junior Sister Yiyi''s father have?" All of them were secretly puzzled.


    Yiyi looked at her father too.


    Qin Yun was feeling a lump in his heart.


    The mighty figure backing him?


    The person that told him his daughter was in the Skywolf world was Puqu Dragonlord! But dragons had a terrible relationship with Yellow-robed Supremacy. If he mentioned Puqu Dragonlord''s name, it would probably make things worse. Besides¡­ He had only been able to contact Puqu Dragonlord through a favor of the West Sea''s ancient Skydragon. Even then, Puqu Dragonlord only agreed to help after being offered a superior-grade Numinous treasure.


    He did not really have any deep ties with Puqu Dragonlord.


    "Speak, who is the mighty figure backing you?" Yellow-robed Supremacy frowned. He had to be careful if a mighty figure was involved. Even if his true strength matched that of a mighty figure, his ability to infer the Heaven''s secrets and divine the future were inferior to those of mighty figures. For example, Puqu Dragonlord was able to easily infer that Qin Yun''s daughter was in the Skywolf world. This was a skill unique to mighty figures.


    Plotting against mighty figures like Golden Immortals and Buddhas was very difficult.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was strong but his realm was insufficient, making him vulnerable to a well-planned scheme. It resulted in his present situation.


    "Forgive me, but I cannot tell you that," said Qin Yun. The Combat Generals, Guardians, and in-name disciples all almost gasped from the astonishment.


    "You...can''t tell?"


    Yellow-robed Supremacy sneered. "Do you think I can''t figure it out if you keep mum? You are at the Essence Soul realm but you have strength that matches a sixth firmament Skyimmortal. That is not something anyone can nurture."


    With that said, his eyes lit up with golden light as he looked at Qin Yun.


    This look¡­ allowed him to clearly see the extremely sharp wisps of Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers as well as the Essence Soul in the form of a tiny person inside Qin Yun''s body.


    "Oh?"


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was alarmed.


    "Whoosh." Yellow-robed Supremacy instantly arrived at Qin Yun''s side and stretched his hand out to grab Qin Yun. His speed was so fast that Qin Yun did not even manage to move.


    "Come with me."


    With that said, he vanished with Qin Yun.


    Wuli Jiushou, Yunshe, Chufu, Menggu, and the other Combat Generals, Guardians, and in-name disciples were taken aback. Yellow-robed Supremacy had personally taken Qin Yun away?


    "Master, please! I beg of you to spare my father! Spare him!" Yiyi shouted the moment she snapped out of her daze.


    "Chufu, bring Yiyi to Treasure Elephant Palace." Yellow-robed Supremacy''s voice sounded in Chufu''s ears.


    Chufu''s eyes lit up.


    He immediately flew to Yiyi''s side.


    "Young lady Yiyi, follow me," said Chufu.


    "Chufu." The nearby Wuli Jiushou, who saw this, shouted immediately, "What are you doing? We Combat Generals are not to interfere with the Competition of the Disciples."


    Chufu shot a glance at Wuli Jiushou and said calmly, "Brother himself instructed me to bring Yiyi to Treasure Elephant Palace. Why, do you want to stop me from carrying out his order?"


    Wuli Jiushou immediately felt stifled and no longer said a word.


    "Whoosh."


    With Yiyi in tow, Chufu transformed into a stream of light and flew towards Treasure Elephant Palace.


    The in-name disciples looked up, exchanging confused looks. She had been taken away just like that? What happened to the non-interference rule of the Competition of the Disciples?


    "It looks like Junior Sister Yiyi''s father has quite an impressive background." All of them mumbled inwardly.


    ¡­


    Yellow-robed Supremacy appeared in a garden in Treasure Elephant Palace with Qin Yun.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy sat down and instructed, "Sit down too."


    Qin Yun obediently took a seat.


    "According to what I know, in all of the Three Realms, only sword immortals from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage can condense an Essence Soul." Yellow-robed Supremacy looked at Qin Yun and asked out of curiosity. "But your Sword Immortal Essence Soul is in the form of a person. This is not the work of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. Where did you obtain this sword immortal Dharmic formulation? Why is it something I have never heard of?"


    "I created it myself," said Qin Yun.

 456 Descen

    Chapter 456: Descent


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Yellow-robed Supremacy''s brows pricked up as he carefully studied Qin Yun.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy did not find it odd that Qin Yun said he ''self-created'' his Dharmic Formulation. He had even guessed it.


    If it wasn''t self-created¡­ Qin Yun would have had to have learned it from someone else. That would mean that the Dharmic formulation had long been created. With the fame of the sword immortal lineage in the Three Realms, it would be impossible for such a feat to remain hidden. For example, there was the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor who created the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, he and others would have sensed it when a new Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation was created.


    If Qin Yun had learned it from someone else, the upper echelons of the Three Realms would have long heard of this other person. Yellow-robed would definitely know of it too.


    "When did you create it yourself?" inquired Yellow-robed Supremacy. "Have you told anyone else?"


    Qin Yun did not hide the matter from him and said, "I have long been thinking about the sword immortal Dharmic formulation. However, I never had the confidence to try it in earnest. A few days ago, my daughter was being pursued by her senior brother and sister, but was lucky to escape on her own. Agitated over my helplessness, I decided to attempt a breakthrough. I broke into the Essence Soul realm just this morning! Not long after my breakthrough, I discovered that my daughter was being pursued by a large group of in-name disciples, forcing me to interfere. Due to the urgency of the matter, I have yet to inform anyone about my creation of a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. Supremacy, you are the only person apart from me to know of it."


    "Hahaha." Yellow-robed Supremacy laughed out loud. "I never expected that the Competition of the Disciples would end up motivating you in creating a Dharmic formulation for yourself! From the looks of it, my Competition of the Disciples has its uses after all."


    Qin Yun felt a load lift off his chest as he smiled in response.


    "By the way, are you from any of the other two Daoist lineages?" pressed Yellow-robed Supremacy.


    "No," said Qin Yun. "Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s avatar descended upon my homeworld in ancient times to preach the Dao. Therefore, I''m considered a disciple of the Numinous Treasure lineage."


    "Alright." Yellow-robed Supremacy nodded. "I will inform Master of you! With Master''s temperament, it is very likely he will take you in as a disciple. In time, we will be fellow disciples."


    Qin Yun immediately took on a pleased grin as he immediately said, "Thank you, Supremacy."


    "Haha, you will have to change the way you address me in a while." Yellow-robed Supremacy smiled. "Alright, go meet your daughter. I have already instructed Chufu to bring her to Treasure Elephant Palace."


    "I will. I have been separated from my daughter for too long and this is the first time we have acknowledged each other. We have many things to talk about. I bid you farewell." Qin Yun immediately stood up.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun left the garden feeling rather pleased and lucky.


    "It was better than I expected. I thought I had to find an opportunity to hint to him that I had created a Sword Immortal Dharmic formulation," thought Qin Yun. "Furthermore, he is willing to talk to the Dao Ancestor on my behalf."


    Upon thinking of how the Dao Ancestor would be made aware of the matter and likely take him in as a disciple, Qin Yun''s heart could not help but race.


    Dao Ancestor¡­


    The entities Daoist cultivators held in the highest esteem were Daoism''s Three Pure Ones.


    The Daoist Three Pure Ones were born from the Chaos. After they enlightened themselves in the Dao, all three of them gained unimaginable powers. The Daoist school of thought had been founded by the three of them.


    He had a chance at having a Dao Ancestor as his master?


    "Phew." Qin Yun slowly breathed out.


    "According to Yellow-robed Supremacy and Daoist Divine Firmament''s guesses, it is likely that the Dao Ancestor will take me in as a disciple. But since it has not actually happened, I cannot take it as a certainty." Qin Yun had an extraordinary Dao heart that allowed him to gradually regain his calm.


    "Brother Qin Yun."


    Chufu had already been waiting outside the palace hall. Upon seeing Qin Yun walk out, he called out loudly.


    "Brother Chufu." Qin Yun hurriedly went forward and bowed. "I''m truly sorry for lying to you."


    "You did it for your daughter," said Chufu with a smile. "By the way, your daughter is sitting in my cave abode at the moment. Go on. Make haste."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Meanwhile, Yiyi stood inside the yard of Chufu''s cave abode. She was eagerly waiting, eyes filled with nervousness.


    "Master took Dad away. What does he plan to do? Will he kill Dad? Will he torture him?" Yiyi turned flustered from worry as all sorts of thoughts ran through her head.


    "Dad, you have to be okay. Please, let nothing happen to you."


    Amid her uneasiness, two figures walked over from afar. They were none other than Chufu and Qin Yun.


    "Dad!" Yiyi ran over with a look of joy.


    "Yiyi." Qin Yun was excited at the sight of his daughter. Chufu watched with a smile.


    "Dad, Master did not do anything to you, right?" Yiyi looked carefully at her father. Yellow-robed Supremacy had left an extremely deep impression of someone that dominated all resistance. Anyone that had defied him would end up in a terrible state.


    "Do I look like something happened to me?" Qin Yun smiled. When he noticed that his daughter was still looking at him carefully, Qin Yun could not help but say, "Don''t worry. It will be fine."


    "Young lady Yiyi, I told you that if Supremacy meant to do anything to your father, he would not have asked me to bring you to Treasure Elephant Palace," said Chufu with a smile.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and his daughter''s reunion began with an exchange of their pasts. As for Chufu, he left so as not to disturb them.


    And elsewhere.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy was in his study as he took out a purple talisman.


    "It''s been so many years. I finally have a chance of meeting Master again." Yellow-robed Supremacy held a brush as he felt mixed emotions.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor had numerous disciples.


    Outside of his ten most beloved disciples, the average disciple would not have a ''chance'' of meeting their master. Although Yellow-robed Supremacy''s combat strength was able to match Golden Immortals and Buddhas, he was only considered normal among Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s disciples. He had not cultivated to the realm of Golden Immortal and even if he was rather strong, he was ranked beyond the hundredth place in Green Touring Palace! He was naturally unqualified to compare with the ten beloved disciples.


    "Thanks to Qin Yun for not telling anyone else this piece of news, I have a chance to give the exclusive report to Master." Yellow-robed Supremacy held his breath as he began writing with great seriousness.


    No matter how powerful Qin Yun was, the amount of help he could give to someone like Yellow-robed Supremacy was limited. He placed greater emphasis on using this news as an opportunity to meet his master!


    It was truly very difficult to be granted a meeting with the Dao Ancestor even once.


    He wrote each word carefully and, after it was done, Yellow-robed Supremacy put away his brush and carefully read the words on the Dao talisman.


    "Alright." Yellow-robed Supremacy wore an extremely serious expression as he reverently bowed at the purple talisman. The words on it suffused golden light before the talisman burned into ashes. The golden words began floating in the sky before dissipating slowly.


    "It''s now up to Master. Master will definitely come." Yellow-robed Supremacy sat in silent anticipation. Following that, he took a step and vanished from the study, appearing outside the courtyard of Chufu''s cave abode.


    ¡­


    Yellow-robed Supremacy, who had converged his aura completely, waited silently from outside the courtyard. He did not disturb Qin Yun or Yiyi.


    Qin Yun and his daughter traded stories.


    "So Mom had been imprisoned by the fiendcelestials for nineteen years as well." Yiyi''s eyes shimmered with tears. "Mom suffered a lot too."


    "Your mom is still waiting for you back at home. After all this is over, we can return home. Our family will then be reunited." Qin Yun smiled at his daughter.


    "Yes." Yiyi nodded. "Dad, can you tell me about you and Mom?"


    Qin Yun nodded as he began narrating, "I was still young back then, only twenty-one. I remember well the night of the Courtesan Belle selection for Grand Dominance County¡­"


    As he narrated, a black-haired elder suddenly appeared beside a pond in the courtyard. He had appeared without stirring even a speck of dirt as he observed Qin Yun with a smile.


    It was Yiyi who saw him first due to the angle she was sitting in.


    "Dad¡­" Yiyi could not help but say. "Who is he?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback. There was someone beside them?


    He immediately turned his head over and saw the black-haired elder.


    The elder had no aura fluctuations at all but for some reason, he carried the majesty of the boundless cosmos! He felt like the sun that had risen from the ocean''s horizon! Although it was only a part of nature, it always left one feeling awed and fearful.


    The black-haired elder was just like that!


    He did not have any suppression or aura! But his presence still left one feeling naturally reverential, as though one was seeing the starry sky or sun.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy, who had been waiting outside the courtyard, trembled the moment he saw the black-haired elder. His eyes welled with tears from the mix of emotions.


    He immediately prostrated at the courtyard''s entrance, his forehead touching the ground as he said with a trembling voice amid tears, "Greetings Master."


    Qin Yun was surprised as well.


    Was it really the Dao Ancestor?


    He and Yiyi immediately knelt down and said with great respect, "Greetings, Dao Ancestor."

 457 Family Reunited Final Chapter of Volume

    Yellow-robed Supremacy''s master was none other than Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure of Daoism''s Three Pure Ones. Qin Yun and Yiyi knew this acutely.


    They felt a natural sense of respect towards the legendary Dao Ancestor.


    Dao Ancestors¡­


    To Daoist cultivators, Dao Ancestors were the manifestation of the Dao itself. They were supreme existences!


    "Arise, all of you." The black-haired elder smiled and gave a light nod. He had a genial look and his eyes seemed capable of taking in everything in the world.


    Qin Yun and Yiyi got up.


    Yellow-robed Supremacy remained kneeling as he raised his head, eyes brimming with tears. He said anxiously, "Master, I defied the heavenly rules and am willing to be punished. But the fate of my wife and sons was just too tragic. I waged war in the name of the Heavenly Courts since it was first established, protecting the Three Realms. Even if my campaigns amounted to nothing in the end, it was still hard work. Yet, Jade Emperor was just too heartless¡­ I would have accepted him punishing me. But why did he implicate my wife and sons?"


    The black-haired elder looked on as his disciple knelt and begged. "Back when the Heavenly Courts were established, we made an agreement that I would not interfere with anything the courts decided."


    Yellow-robed Supremacy had a sliver of sorrow on his face as he remained prostrated. "I understand."


    "Let us do this. I shall allow you one trip to Green Touring Palace, where you can cultivate in the Golden Sand Array for ten thousand years," said the black-haired elder. "The Golden Sand Array is best at restraining your body. If you make a breakthrough, allowing you to successfully enter the Golden Immortal realm, perhaps your wife and sons'' situation will turn for the better."


    Yellow-robed Supremacy immediately took on a look of excitement when he heard that. He prostrated and said excitedly, "Thank you, Master."


    Wasn''t the point of him coming up with means to meet his Master to get some help from him?


    Although his master could not interfere with the matters of the Heavenly Courts, just a little gesture would aid him greatly!


    "Are you Qin Yun?" The black-haired elder smiled at Qin Yun.


    "Yes, Dao Ancestor." Qin Yun was extremely polite and even a little nervous.


    While facing the Dao Ancestor, he couldn''t help but feel like he was facing the Great Dao itself.


    Massive, majestic, boundless¡­


    Just meditating over it a little would make one feel its utter vastness.


    "In all the Three Realms, I''m ranked first when it comes to Sword Dao," said the black-haired elder with a smile. "However, I never imagined that the Sword Dao alone could carve out an entire cultivation lineage. It was Elder Lord who figured out the sword immortal lineage. Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers and the Intrinsic Flying Sword contrast and complement each other, augmenting one''s offensive capabilities greatly. This made many Golden Immortals in the Three Realms attempt to infer, but they only managed to infer a mortal sword immortal Dharmic formulation."


    "The condensation of an Essence Soul became an impossible difficulty."


    The black-haired elder sighed. "Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers are too sharp. Trying to nurture them normally into a humanoid Essence Soul is impossible. And to do it like Elder Lord, making the Sword Immortal Essence Soul like a sword¡­ The creation of that Dharmic formulation is extremely difficult."


    "I never imagined that after so many years, a junior like you would manage to figure it out." The black-haired elder looked at Qin Yun and praised, "That''s right. All those mighty figures were only inferring out of nothing. You, on the other hand, have fully experienced it. It''s only because you are at your level of Sword Dao that you figured it out."


    "I was lucky," replied Qin Yun respectfully.


    "The path of cultivation is very difficult. There is no such thing as luck. By being able to figure it out, you have shown your capability." The black-haired elder nodded. "Qin Yun, are you willing to take me as your master?"


    Yellow-robed Supremacy, who had already stood up, immediately signaled with his eyes.


    Qin Yun naturally understood his intention. He reverently knelt down again. "Yes, I am."


    "Good." The black-haired elder smiled and nodded in satisfaction. With a light tap of his finger, a golden Dao talisman condensed in midair and flew over.


    Qin Yun reached out to grab it.


    Upon grabbing it, the golden Dao talisman fused into his palm and left behind a runic mark.


    "Come to Green Touring Palace to meet me as soon as possible." The black-haired elder smiled before vanishing.


    Qin Yun looked at his palm and the runic mark appeared once again. When he focused on it¡­ Qin Yun could sense a mysterious land far away in infinite space. He could even sense the majestic palace and the three words on it, Green Touring Palace. That was the Dao residence of Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, one of the legendary Three Pure Ones.


    "Congratulations, Junior Brother." Yellow-robed Supremacy laughed.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother. If not for your help, I would probably not have met Master so quickly," thanked Qin Yun.


    "I''m the one that ought to thank you." Yellow-robed Supremacy laughed. "Alright, I won''t keep you here any longer. It''s best you quickly settle any miscellaneous matters and head to Green Touring Palace. You can''t leave Master waiting. By the way, where''s your homeworld? I believe you wish to bring your daughter back, right? I''ll send you there. It will be much faster that way."


    "My homeworld is the Great Chang world. Now that I''ve reached the Essence Soul realm, it will probably take me an hour just to open up a passageway. Senior Brother Yellow-robed, I will have to trouble you," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s nothing." Yellow-robed Supremacy smiled. "The Great Chang world is rather famous in the Effulgent Great World. After all, Daoist Divine Firmament hails from it. And now, there''s you."


    Qin Yun smiled faintly.


    "Open!"


    Yellow-robed Supremacy pointed into the distance.


    "Boom!"


    A passageway into the void was opened that connected directly to the distant Great Chang world.


    "That is the Great Chang world." Yellow-robed Supremacy looked at Qin Yun and smiled. "Don''t blame me for putting your daughter in the Competition of the Disciples. After all¡­ you were not my junior brother then!"


    "Yes, I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Speaking of which, you and I were bound by fate through Yiyi." Yellow-robed Supremacy looked at Yiyi. "Yiyi, now that you have found your parents, you can come to the Skywolf world anytime you wish to meet me."


    "Yes," Yiyi replied obediently.


    "Alright, make haste." Yellow-robed Supremacy smiled.


    Qin Yun nodded, and them immediately sensed Chufu watching from afar. After all, this was Chufu''s cave abode.


    "Brother Chufu, Yiyi and I must return home now. My homeworld is the Great Chang world. Please come visit me in the future," said Qin Yun via voice transmission.


    "Haha, I will definitely head there if I have the chance. Brother Qin Yun, congratulations on getting what you wished for and for your family being reunited."


    "It was all thanks to you, Brother Chufu." Qin Yun was very grateful.


    Chufu had been very sincere towards him. He gave him Starlord Covetous Wolf''s sword art that allowed him to break through so rapidly. If not for that, he would probably spend another few decades even if his creation of the Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation was viable.


    "Time to leave."


    Qin Yun held Yiyi''s hand.


    Whoosh~


    With one step, they passed through the void passageway.


    As the void passageway slowly closed, Yellow-robed Supremacy watched silently before he muttered softly, "I was quite lucky to meet Master through this opportunity. I was given the chance to enter the Golden Sand Array. If I can break through and become a Golden Immortal¡­ Hmph, when the time comes¡­" A cold glint flashed in Yellow-robed Supremacy''s narrowed eyes.


    He extended his hand as his disciple mark appeared on his palm. He sensed Green Touring Palace from afar.


    "Sou!"


    A blurry light descended upon him as Yellow-robed Supremacy vanished from the Skywolf world.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance County, Qin Manor.


    Yi Xiao was sitting alone by the side of the tiny mirror lake. In front of her was a teapot and a teacup that had steam slowly rising from it.


    She sat there silently, waiting.


    It had been more than a year since Qin Yun headed for the Skywolf world. She had not received any news from him.


    She wanted to do something but she found that she was powerless to help.


    All she could do was wait bitterly.


    "Brother Yun¡­" Yi Xiao mumbled.


    And at that moment, along the distant horizon.


    Qin Yun and Yiyi came flying on a cloud.


    "Look, up ahead is Grand Dominance City." Qin Yun stood on the cloud and pointed to the ancient city from afar. "That is my hometown. Grand Dominance City was also where I first met your mother."


    "I know. The day of the Courtesan Belle selection," said Yiyi with a smile.


    "Yes, our home is in the city." As Qin Yun spoke, he rapidly flew there with his daughter.


    Yi Xiao, who was still sitting by the side of the mirror lake, sensed something and looked over. She saw a familiar figure on a distant cloud with a young girl in tow.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao saw her husband and the girl. The bloodline sensation immediately filled Yi Xiao with excitement.


    The cloud rapidly descended and Yiyi saw the beautiful woman. The affection that stemmed from their shared bloodline made her eyes turn moist. She mumbled, "Mom?"


    She had imagined her mother''s looks countless times.


    Now, she was finally seeing them in person.


    This was her mother.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun and Yiyi landed beside the tiny lake.


    "Xiaoxiao, this is our daughter, Yiyi." Qin Yun looked at his wife and smiled. "I''ve brought her back."


    Yi Xiao looked at her husband and daughter in front of her and felt as though everything was a dream.


    (End of Volume)

 458 Entering Green Touring Palace

    Chapter 458: Entering Green Touring Palace


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s family of three were happily chatting by the lake now that they were finally together.


    But they soon found themselves entertaining others when a cloud flew over from the distance. On it were Daoist Divine Firmament and Patriarch Bai.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked up.


    The fat Patriarch Bai looked over from afar as his eyes lit up. He could clearly see that Qin Yun had already attained the Essence Soul realm. He laughed boisterously from midair. "Hahaha, Brother Qin Yun, congratulations. You have finally condensed an Essence Soul."


    He and Daoist Divine Firmament landed together.


    "Congratulations!" Daoist Divine Firmament said with a smile as well. "Since you have condensed an Essence Soul, it appears you have successfully created a Sword Immortal Dharmic formulation."


    "I was only able to save my daughter because I successfully created the Dharmic formulation." Qin Yun smiled as he said to his daughter, "Yiyi, quick greet Senior Bai and Senior Zhang."


    Yiyi immediately bowed. "Greetings Senior Bai and Senior Zhang, I''m Qin Yiyi. I have long heard from my father about the two Skyimmortals of my homeworld, the Great Chang world."


    "I can''t compare with the two of them. They are both elite figures of the Three Realms," Patriarch Bai said with a smile.


    Daoist Divine Firmament smiled helplessly before he looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, since you successfully created a Dharmic formulation, did the Dao Ancestor take you in as a disciple? If he hasn''t, I can report this matter to Master for you."


    "Senior Brother Yellow-robed has already reported it. The Dao Ancestor descended right after and took me in as a disciple on the spot," said Qin Yun.


    Daoist Divine Firmament understood.


    "Impressive." Patriarch Bai gave his envious praise.


    "What is the Dao Ancestor like?" Yi Xiao asked out of curiosity.


    "Mom, I was beside Dad when the Dao Ancestor descended," said Qin Yiyi. "He looks rather amiable and did not seem to emit even the slightest pressure. But he also felt¡­ extremely distant, like it''s impossible to touch him."


    "Back when the Dao Ancestor descended as an avatar, I had the chance to listen to him preach the Dao," said Patriarch Bai with a sigh. "Just seeing him is truly an unforgettable experience."


    "Master is rather attentive to every disciple," said Daoist Divine Firmament as he looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, since Master has taken you in as a disciple, you should head for Green Touring Palace as soon as possible."


    "Yes. I just brought Yiyi back. I plan on heading to Green Touring Palace immediately." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Remember," Daoist Divine Firmament said solemnly, "Your initial meeting with Master at Green Touring Palace is the first and only time Master will preach the Dao to you on a one-on-one basis! You have to cherish this singular opportunity. If there''s anything you aren''t certain of, make sure to ask! After this opportunity, you will probably not have another chance to hear the Dao personally unless you can become a Golden Immortal."


    "The personal preaching of the Dao only happens once?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "Just once!"


    Daoist Divine Firmament nodded to emphasize the point. "Master has many disciples. Other than his most beloved disciples, the rest are treated equally."


    "However, for one of the Daoism''s Three Pure Ones to personally preach the Dao to you in detail is a dream come true for any cultivator, even if it is just once," said Daoist Divine Firmament with a smile. "Besides, there are many other opportunities available in Green Touring Palace. The achievements of a disciple will rely on their own skills."


    "There are tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples. Though they share the same master, these disciples vary greatly in strength. The weak ones are only third firmament Skyimmortals. The strong ones are in no way lacking even when compared to Almighty Gods Gonggong or Zhurong. There are even some who dare to spar with the Dao or Buddhist Ancestors and manage to escape with their lives," said Daoist Divine Firmament wistfully.


    Qin Yun was rather alarmed hearing this story.


    Although he knew little of the legends of the Three Realms, he did know that there were a few existences that were only second to the Dao and Buddhist Ancestors in the Three Realms. For example, the Almighty Gods Zhurong, Gonggong, or the Ancestral Dragon. In the Ancestral Dragon''s case, he was originally a Chaos Godfiend. He had established the dragon lineage and became the Dragon race''s first ancestor. It was a testament to its powerful bloodline.


    And yet among the Green Touring Palace disciples, there were apparently some who could match Almighty Gods Gongong and Zhurong.


    "I wonder how far my cultivation can go in the future," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stuck around to chat a little longer.


    "It''s about time," he said as he got up. "Yiyi, I know you just came back but I have to head for Green Touring Palace now."


    "Dad, don''t mind us. Mom and I have lots to talk about," Qin Yiyi said. After reuniting with her parents, she decided to take on the name ''Qin Yiyi.''


    "Go ahead. The both of us are in no rush," said Yi Xiao with a smile. Her husband was heading to Green Touring Palace for cultivation. She was happy for her husband, and proud that he acquired such a rare opportunity.


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    "My second Essence Soul is cultivating in the Myriad Dharma Pool. I won''t be able to receive you." Daoist Divine Firmament looked at Qin Yun. "However, Master should have arranged for a Dao Child to greet you. Everything will be arranged nicely for you."


    "I''ll be leaving first, then."


    Qin Yun infused his Dharmic powers into the disciple mark in his palm. He could sense a distant spot.


    He triggered it.


    The Green Touring Palace immediately sent down its powers.


    A blurry light enveloped Qin Yun as he gave his family one last smile before vanishing.


    "Green Touring Palace." Patriarch Bai sighed as he watched this scene. "Just think, Brother Qin Yun was once an itinerant cultivator. Now that he has entered the Green Touring Palace, he will likely soar from this moment forth."


    Daoist Divine Firmament smiled while stroking his beard. "Green Touring Palace only provides the opportunity. What one attains in the future depends on how they use it."


    ******


    Having activated the disciple mark, Qin Yun could sense a wave from infinite space envelop him.


    "Whoosh."


    He was instantly teleported.


    When he could see an actual world again, he found himself on a mysterious ground with a lingering white fog around him. There were contiguous complexes all around and the most opulent palace he had ever seen¡­ he had sensed this all through his disciple mark earlier but seeing it was different. On the palace doors were the huge words ''Green Touring Palace.''


    "Are you Senior Brother Qin Yun?" A Dao Child came forward to receive him with a smile.


    "Yes." Qin Yun looked at the Dao Child. He did not look human nor was he a demon. He actually resembled a Guardian General or Yellow-scarved Strongman.


    "Senior Brother, please follow me," said the Dao Child with a smile. "I''ll bring you to meet Master."


    "Sorry for troubling you."


    Qin Yun followed the Dao Child.


    The Dao residence transcended the ordinary space-time of the Three Realms. Even mighty figures like Golden Immortals and Buddhas could not find it. Only people permitted by Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor could enter!


    "Haha, Junior Brother. Have a taste of my Dharma treasure!"


    "I have cultivated in thirteen Dharma spells. Senior Brother, you have not been able to crack even half of them." A human and demon were sparring a distance away. There were other fellow disciples watching by the side as well.


    The might produced by their exchange was stunning. Their strength was beyond even Wuli Jiushou.


    Qin Yun estimated them to have strength at the eighth or ninth Skyimmortal realm.


    "There are quite a number of disciples that stay here in Green Touring Palace frequently. After all, this area has many places that are suitable for cultivation. There are also countless manuals that can be read at any time," explained the Dao Child with a smile. "Usually, the disciples will have Dao exchanges and sparring matches."


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    The disciples had also noticed Qin Yun.


    "He seems to be new."


    "Who is he?"


    "No idea."


    The disciples discussed among themselves but none of them knew about Qin Yun.


    Moments later.


    The Dao Child brought Qin Yun to Green Touring Palace''s main palace.


    "Senior Brother, please follow me in." Qin Yun followed behind the Dao Child.


    The main palace was wide like the starry cosmos. Its ends were hardly discernible.


    A black-haired elder sat cross-legged on a floating cloud. His aura was mighty and, unlike his avatar, his true body made Qin Yun feel like he was standing in the full light of a burning sun that emitted boundless rays. Even if his aura had been converged, the natural aura that existed left Qin Yun stifled by the disparity that stemmed from life''s natural order.


    "Master, Qin Yun is here." The Dao Child bowed politely. Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor nodded gently as the Dao Child took his leave.


    "Greetings Master." Qin Yun said with a kneel.


    "Stand up," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor with a smile.


    Qin Yun stood up.


    "You cultivate in the Sword Dao and you created a brand new sword immortal lineage. Your lineage is still very weak, as you only just created it up to the Essence Soul realm. I hope the lineage you create can exceed the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage in the future," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "I will do my best," said Qin Yun politely. He knew that such a goal was extremely far-reaching.


    The Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage had two Golden Immortal realm sword immortals who had forged a name for themselves.


    In contrast, he had only just barely created an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation.


    "These are just my hopes for you. How far you can go is up to you," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "Now, I will showcase the Sword Dao to you. How much you understand and remember will depend on your perceptivity."


    "Yes." Qin Yun focused his eyes.

 459 Treasure Mountain

    Chapter 459: Treasure Mountain


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Dao Ancestor''s preaching of the Dao might have focused on Sword Dao, but he began his sermon from the basics¡ªevery stalk of flower, every blade of grass, and every drop of water.


    A tiny tree''s roots sprouted as it slowly grew, until it bloomed and sprouted fragrant flowers.


    Flowing water surged to nourish the myriad things, capable of moving from a state of solid ice to a billowing steam¡­


    The Great Dao was weaved into everything.


    Sword Dao manifested itself in every trivial matter.


    Qin Yun gradually found himself immersed into the sermon and could not help but beam. He was naturally relaxed as he sat cross-legged to listen.


    "Rocks allow the elements to strike at them¡­" The Dao Ancestor smiled as a scene of a rock being left to the elements appeared. With the passage of time, it was finally, gradually reduced to a part of the land¡­


    ¡­


    Qin Yun became more and more excited as he listened.


    In the past, he had watched the world pass by him, occasionally gaining some inspiration, allowing his newfound insights to fuse with his sword.


    His sword could be like mist, rain, lightning, fire, and light.


    But he had never heard such a detailed explanation like the one being provided by Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. It went from simple to deeply profound. Qin Yun felt that the most essential Great Dao of the world was being unveiled to him! The Dao Ancestor appeared to be the most brilliant chef, peeling layers off the myriad things of the world one by one for Qin Yun, showing him how they all mixed together. Different Dao was interconnected and, in the Dao Ancestor''s eyes, all the Dao in the world could manifest as a Sword Dao.


    In the first two hours, Qin Yun had an unprecedented excitement from listening.


    In the next two hours, Qin Yun felt the blood in him boil. Even his Essence Soul was trembling with excitement.


    From the sixth hour on, he gradually fell into bewilderment.


    Although the Dao Ancestor''s explanation was very easy to follow, the deeper he went, the more aspects were involved.


    Time, space, life, Samsara, Karma, Merit¡­ every time a new aspect was brought in, the complexity raised to a whole new level. As more and more elements were involved, Qin Yun felt that he seemed to understand but was more perplexed when he thought about it.


    By the eighth hour, Qin Yun was already frowning. He felt like he was listening to something extremely esoteric.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor continued explaining freely, and as he spoke¡ª


    A sun would occasionally rise around him, or a silvery moon might appear.


    From time to time, golden lotus flowers would appear around him.


    And at other times, the Heavenly realm and the Underworld realm would circle around Samsara.


    Also, there were the occasional wisps of Chaos Qi that fleeted past them.


    By the tenth hour, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was talking about even more vague and insubstantial matters. He was talking about the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array that the Three Realms feared greatly.


    "Immortal Vanquishing, Immortal Slaying, Immortal Entrapment, Immortal Peril¡­ All four Sword Dao require the combination of an array chart." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor explained simply. Four faint sword shadows appeared at his side, and beneath them was a array chart. Although the sword array was an illusion conjured by thought, boundless and horrifying killing intent appeared from within it, as though it was about to destroy space itself.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor stopped after a short explanation. He could tell that his new disciple was already completely lost.


    "Alright." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor smiled.


    Qin Yun snapped out of his reverie. The last bits had left him utterly confused and in a daze. When he jolted awake, he immediately stood up and bowed. "Master."


    "I''ll stop here. Is there anything you might want to ask?" inquired Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "I do have questions," said Qin Yun respectfully. He knew that this was the only time he could learn from his master in person and was naturally not going to waste it.


    After a few questions, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor gave his answers before stopping.


    "There''s no need to continue asking. What remains is for you to figure it out yourself. Only by doing so will your progress truly be your own. Understanding it on a superficial level might not mean that you truly comprehend it at its core," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "Yes." Qin Yun did not dare raise any further questions.


    "You were originally an itinerant cultivator and had no master to guide you. You are used to creating your own sword moves, building your own foundations," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor with a smile. "Creating your sword moves yourself is naturally a good thing, but to keep blindly creating alone while cultivating makes it easy to go astray without knowing it."


    Qin Yun was alarmed as he said politely, "Master, please teach me!"


    He had been creating moves for himself all this while¡­


    During the dream of a hundred years, his first stepping into the Dao gave him a Dao domain of ten kilometers. In his second stepping into the Dao, it reached fifteen kilometers.


    Thankfully, he had another chance to step into the Dao again after returning to his actual body, allowing him to build a very robust foundation.


    He had been influenced by a dream of a hundred years that was left behind by Buddha Amita. In the first world, the bloodlust in him was extremely intense. In the second world, his heart was still as an ice mirror. This resulted in his stepping into the Dao to go slightly astray both times.


    But if not for those opportunities¡­


    His current foundation would probably pale in comparison to what it was even if he worked hard at stepping into the Dao back in his homeworld.


    This was the flaw that was constantly present in self-creation! Having a dream of a hundred years was equivalent to having a senior guide him. With a master or a senior guiding him, his foundation would turn out completely differently.


    "Go to the Myriad Dharma Repository. Choose a Sword Dao manual at the Golden Immortal level that suits you the best. Make it your focus. Then, choose another few Sword Dao manuals at the Golden Immortal level to study on the side. Just focus on cultivating and, one day, when you reach the point of being at the pinnacle of what the Skyimmortal realm has to offer, you can fuse what you have learned into one. That will be the moment your Golden Immortal Dao fruit will be ripe," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "Only the piling of soil results in a mountain, the combinations of tiny tributary streams combine to form a raging river. Studying the Sword Dao manuals of seniors helps you accumulate more knowledge. Without the accumulation of knowledge, how are you to create things yourself? Do you understand?"


    Qin Yun brightened up as he said respectfully, "Yes, I understand."


    "Since you wish to create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation yourself, you will be stuck in the Essence Soul realm for quite some time," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "It''s also wise for you to choose a potent divine power. Cultivate well."


    "Yes," said Qin Yun politely.


    "You may leave," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "Your humble disciple bids you farewell."


    Qin Yun took a few steps back in retreat and walked out the door that appeared behind him.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor sat there, smiling before he vanished into thin air.


    The Green Touring Palace''s grand hall became an ordinary hall. It no longer had that endless feel of the cosmos.


    If the Dao Ancestor did not appear, his disciples could not meet him even if they wanted.


    ¡­


    "Senior Brother Qin Yun, this will be your residence in Green Touring Palace from now on." The Dao Child brought Qin Yun to an ordinary courtyard which had three buildings.


    Qin Yun found the place surprisingly ordinary. However, Green Touring Palace''s spiritual energies were astoundingly rich. Just breathing them in left one''s body refreshed and comfortable. It was as though he was constantly consuming rare treasures and felt immensely ethereal. It allowed him to be more efficient when meditating.


    "It''s really a good place for cultivation," marveled Qin Yun.


    The Dao Child flipped his hand and handed a book to Qin Yun. "Senior Brother Qin, this manual records some of the important places in Green Touring Palace. You can take your time to read through it carefully. Also, the most important spot to Green Touring Palace disciples is the Myriad Dharma Repository. It would be wise for you to remember that well."


    "Myriad Dharma Repository?" Qin Yun recalled what the Dao Ancestor had told him.


    "Yes." The Dao Child nodded. "The Myriad Dharma Repository holds a collection of countless manuals from all over the Three Realms. It has a total of nine floors. The ninth floor is only open to those who have attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. Disciples are free to enter the other eight floors. You can read any of the Dharmic formulations there."


    "I can read any of them?" Qin Yun was astonished. "All of them?"


    The more powerful a manual, the more it incurred the envy of the heavens.


    Therefore, the number of reads was usually limited.


    "Yes, you can read them all," said the Dao Child with a smile. "No matter how envious the Heavenly Dao is, the manuals in our Myriad Dharma Repository are immune to its wrath."


    "The first eight floors hold a collection of countless precious manuals from the Three Realms. Humans, demons, dragons, and even Buddhist manuals are in there. There are naturally all sorts of artifact refinement, alchemical methods, array formation arts, and talisman arts in there too," said the Dao Child. "It includes some of the most potent divine powers and Dharma spells in the Three Realms. You are free to read them all. Most of them can be cultivated straight to the Golden Immortal level."


    "Master has countless manuals in his collection and they are all freely available to his disciples," said the Dao Child with a smile. "The top Dharmic formulations and divine powers are there for you. How far you can cultivate them to depends on you."


    Qin Yun was truly astonished.


    This was what it meant to be a personal disciple of the Dao Ancestor!


    In the past, he was poor as an itinerant cultivator. Now, it was as though he had walked into a treasure mountain!


    However, among the tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples, there were some who remained mediocre and were only at the ordinary Skyimmortal level. Clearly, the individual mattered more than how good the conditions were.


    "Then, Senior Brother Qin Yun, I shall take my leave," said the Dao Child with a smile.


    "Thank you, Junior Brother," said Qin Yun.


    As he watched the Dao Child leave, Qin Yun waved his hand as the courtyard''s door closed slowly.


    Although he wished to immediately visit the Myriad Dharma Repository to choose Sword Dao manuals for his primary and secondary focus, and select potent divine powers, Qin Yun still had many thoughts clashing in his mind after hearing his master''s preaching of the Dao.


    "I shall meditate for a period of time before I visit the Myriad Dharma Repository." Qin Yun entered a room and began a seclusive meditation.

 460 Thirty-five Sword Manuals

    Chapter 460: Thirty-five Sword Manuals


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A piece of news slowly spread throughout the Three Realms as Qin Yun entered secluded cultivation.


    A cultivator named Qin Yun had opened up a new sword immortal cultivation system apart from the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. Of course, he had only created it up to the Essence Soul realm! That was still considered too nascent compared to the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage but it was enough to make experts from all over the Three Realms marvel. However, the Three Realms were huge and had numerous geniuses. Qin Yun had only created a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. This was not enough to cause huge stirs in the Three Realms.


    But at the very least, many experts in the Three Realms had now heard Qin Yun''s name.


    ¡­


    More than half a month after his seclusion.


    "Creak."


    Qin Yun pushed open the door, stood in his courtyard, and took a deep breath. He held it on for a moment before letting it out. His aura flew out tens of feet like a sword.


    "I finally can relax." Qin Yun revealed a relaxed smile.


    It was the dream of countless cultivators to have a Dao Ancestor preach the Dao to them personally. He had benefited greatly and had thousands of ideas after listening to the sermon. The Dao Ancestor had encouraged Qin Yun to figure things out himself, for only by doing so would what he gained be his.


    Over the past month or so, he had straightened out all the leads he had in his mind and fully figured them out.


    He was figuring things at an increasing pace.


    Only up until today was his mind clear.


    His Sword Dao had reached a brand new level.


    "One session of Dao preaching from the Dao Ancestor exceeds a century of arduous cultivation for me," Qin Yun thought wistfully. "Unfortunately, there will not be a second time. Among Daoism''s Three Pure Ones, Master takes in the most number of disciples, but because there are so many, his guidance of each individual disciple is limited. Primordial Beginning and Grand Supreme Dao Ancestors are very stringent on their disciple requirements. Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor takes in very few disciples but Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor takes in even fewer personal disciples. But due to the extremely small number, the amount of focus on each disciple is much higher."


    Both of them nurtured their personal disciples with great attention, making their personal disciples enjoy an extremely high standing in the Three Realms.


    As for Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, a large number of his disciples were only ordinary Skyimmortals. They were practically unknown in the wider world. However, the disciples that were ranked in the top two hundred among those tens of thousands of disciples were similarly famous in the Three Realms.


    "Although Master gives less frequent guidance, he is very generous with his disciples." Qin Yun took out a manual and gently flipped through it. "This records all the important places in Green Touring Palace that are provided for disciples to use! The stronger a disciple is, the more they receive. If one were to become a Golden Immortal, Master will even bestow them with Connate Numinous treasures."


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor allowed his disciples free reign over their cultivation.


    The weaker ones were left to their own devices.


    The stronger they were¡­ the more benefits Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor gave.


    "Creak."


    Qin Yun walked out the courtyard and headed for the Myriad Dharma Repository.


    ¡­


    "Look, who''s that punk? Why is he only at the Essence Soul realm?"


    "A Green Touring Palace disciple that''s only at the Essence Soul realm?"


    A few Daoists and demons were playing and watching a chess game. All of them noticed the distant Qin Yun and could not help engage in a discussion about him.


    "Everyone, did you not hear? Master took in a new disciple who has created a new sword immortal branch, one that stands apart from the Grand Supreme sword lineage," said a long-bearded Daoist with a wistful sigh.


    "A new sword immortal branch?"


    "Senior Brother Yu, are you implying that it''s him?"


    All of them were somewhat astonished.


    "Yes, it''s him," said the long-bearded Daoist with a smile. "His name is Qin Yun and he comes from our Effulgent dominion. Many factions in our Effulgent dominion are now searching for news regarding this Qin Yun. He has only cultivated for several decades but is capable of opening up a new sword immortal branch. He might be weak now, but in the future his prospects will likely far exceed those of us old folks."


    "He has only cultivated for several decades?"


    "That impressive?" All of them were stunned agape.


    Although news had begun spreading in the Three Realms, there were tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples. Most of them had ordinary levels of standing in the Three Realms. Those that knew Qin Yun had opened up a new sword immortal branch were in the minority.


    "Junior Brother Qin Yun. Junior Brother Qin Yun." A pig demon who had been watching the chess game from the side ran over smilingly. He shouted from afar.


    "Senior Brother Pig is trying to rope people in again." A few of his fellow disciples laughed.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun paused with a puzzled look. He watched the pig demon run towards him.


    The pig demon was fat and looked rather amiable. His aura was also converged but just the minute amounts he released were enough for Qin Yun to determine that the pig demon was an eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortal.


    "Greetings, Senior Brother," said Qin Yun humbly.


    "My name is Third Pig," chuckled the pig demon. "Years ago, my two elder brothers and I occupied a mountain in the Heaven Realm as demons. We were lucky to catch Master''s fancy and were made his disciples."


    Qin Yun was enlightened. "Impressive. All three brothers have been made disciples of the Dao Ancestor."


    "Haha. Junior Brother Qin Yun, compared to your achievement of opening up a brand new sword immortal branch, it''s nothing," said Third Pig with a smile.


    Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    News had spread that fast?


    "The three of us brothers will be holding a Dao exchange banquet at Clear Wind Hall tomorrow at noon. There will be hundreds of fellow disciples joining us," said Third Pig with a smile. "Junior Brother Qin Yun, you have to be there."


    "Sure, I''ll definitely attend." Qin Yun nodded with a smile. He naturally would attend the banquet since he was given such a warm invitation.


    Furthermore, getting an invitation showed that he was being thought highly of.


    The tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples formed several cliques. The stronger one was, the stronger the clique they could enter.


    ¡­


    After a few simple exchanges with Senior Brother Pig, he left and shortly arrived at Myriad Dharma Repository.


    Myriad Dharma Repository was a towering pavilion with nine floors.


    Qin Yun stood in front of Myriad Dharma Repository and looked up. Countless manuals from various worlds in the Three Realms were gathered here, all free for disciples to read. It was truly a generous gesture.


    "So many Dharmic formulations."


    Qin Yun looked around as he walked in Myriad Dharma Repository.


    There were the formulations for the magi, dragons, demons, Buddhists¡­


    Of course, Daoism manuals took up the majority.


    With Qin Yun''s potent psyche, he was able to simply swept the area while proceeding forward. He did this for about two hours before he came to a corner in the Myriad Dharma Repository''s sixth floor.


    "There are a total of thirty-five Sword Qi manuals." Qin Yun immediately picked up a black scroll and, after unfurling it, purple words appeared on black jade slips. The purple words effused a billowing fiendish aura as Qin Yun read.


    He read very slowly.


    In terms of memory, he could typically memorize all of them in an instant. But Qin Yun was figuring things out as he read, gaining a rough judgment of the manual.


    "There''s too much bloodlust to it." Qin Yun frowned before putting it away and picking up another scroll.


    He read one scroll after another.


    He finished reading all the scrolls after spending twelve hours. He was able to get a general understanding of all the thirty-five Sword Dao manuals.


    "The creators of these sword manuals were Ancient Heavenly Courts Demonsages, Buddhas, and Ancestral Fiends. There are also many Daoist seniors. There are fifteen sword manuals at the Golden Immortal realm! The remaining twenty sword manuals might be at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm but they had also carved open a new path for themselves, which is why they are kept in Myriad Dharma Repository." Qin Yun pondered. "Which sword manual should I focus on primarily?"


    "For my primary choice, it has to be one of the sword manuals at the Golden Immortal level."


    "Among the fifteen, three of them were created by Master."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes.


    The fifteen sword manuals surfaced in his mind as he began eliminating them one by one.


    Finally, there were five scrolls he particularly fancied.


    "Five Directions Sword Sutra. It''s the most multifaceted. This sword sutra is split into the Five Directions and Five Elements which encompasses almost everything."


    "Netherfiend Records. It''s an extremely strange and unfathomable sword manual. Every sword move is extremely odd. It goes to roundabout extremums."


    "Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart. It''s calculating to the extreme. Before an enemy even attacks, they might fall for a particular trap." After Qin Yun read it, he was rather astonished at the inference it was capable of. Such a sword art was truly meticulous.


    "Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art. Pursues extreme speed and extreme sharpness!"


    "Only Me Sword Song. Filled with paramount emotions about the sword, this sword art is the most unrestrained."


    Qin Yun pondered.


    Which sword manual should he focus on primarily? The five sword manuals were at the Golden Immortal level. However, different Golden Immortal levels could still be split into different grades. In terms of might, the Five Directions Sword Sutra and the Netherfiend Records were more powerful while the remaining three were inferior.


    Qin Yun read each sword manual and finally decided on¡ªHundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art.


    "This shall be the one." Qin Yun made up his mind.


    Although it did not fully harmonize with the Sword Dao in his mind, Qin Yun felt that the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art would be of the greatest help to him.

 461 Senior Brothers and Sisters

    Chapter 461: Senior Brothers and Sisters


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I shall have the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art as my primary focus and the other four sword manuals as my secondary focus." Qin Yun liked all five sword manuals and so decided to use all of them.


    One primary and four secondary manuals¡­ would accumulate to form the foundation of his Sword Dao.


    "Master said that I''ll be stuck in the Essence Soul for some time and so this period would be suitable to cultivate some divine powers?" Qin Yun mumbled to himself. "What relationship does the Essence Soul realm share with the cultivation of divine powers?"


    With that said, he continued heading up.


    On the eighth level of the Myriad Dharma Repository, Qin Yun found a large collection of divine power Dharmic formulations.


    "True Samadhi Fire."


    "Buddhist Nation in Palm."


    "Two Realms Evasion Art."


    Qin Yun looked at each of the rather eye-catching divine powers as he read through them.


    After reading each manual, Qin Yun fell into thought. Moments later, he had flipped through about twenty books that contained some of the more famous and potent divine powers in the Three Realms.


    "I see." Qin Yun muttered softly. "It''s no wonder Master said that I''m suited to cultivate in divine powers since I''ll be stuck in the Essence Soul realm for some time. It''s because the top great divine powers in the Three Realms can only be cultivated at the Essence Soul realm. That would explain why Arhat Tenside and Ape Fiend Junior of the Effulgent Great World remained in the Essence Soul realm¡­ For instance, in the Buddhists'' Western Paradise, there are eighteen Arhats. Legend has it that their strength has already reached close to that of Golden Immortals and Buddhas but they remain in the Arhat realm. It''s because of these great divine powers."


    "Top great divine powers are sufficient for one to reign supreme in the Three Realms," thought Qin Yun.


    Ordinary divine powers could be cultivated at the mortal stage.


    Even his Eye of Lightning, which was considered quite a potent divine power, was not qualified to be labeled a great divine power.


    A potent great divine power¡­ could allow one to match Golden Immortals and Buddhas when it was cultivated to its limit!


    "The Essence Soul is purer. After one survives the tribulation to become a Skyimmortal, it requires spirit and body to fuse as one! The Essence Soul and body perfectly fuse and, as a result, the Dharmic powers transform to become Skyimmortal Dharmic powers. It creates great might as a result but it contains one''s physical strength. That drastically reduces the effects of cultivating a divine power."


    "The only way to resolve this problem is to cultivate an Intrinsic Divine Power at the Essence Soul realm, making it a part of one''s life. By doing so, even when spirit and body fuses as one as a Skyimmortal, one can continue cultivating the divine power."


    "But there can only be one Intrinsic Divine Power! Just like my Intrinsic Flying Sword, there is no way to cultivate a second one simultaneously."


    "And while I''m in the Essence Soul realm, I can only cultivate in several powerful divine powers."


    "According to the divine power Dharmic formulations'' descriptions, there are some experts in the Three Realms who have remained in the Essence Soul, willing to stay as Earth Immortals. There are also a bunch of Buddhists who are willing to remain as Arhats. They mainly focus on cultivating great divine powers, and the best among them can match Golden Immortals and Buddhas." Qin Yun shook his head in self-derision. "However, my Intrinsic Flying Sword requires the infusion Dharmic powers to be triggered. The stronger my Dharmic powers, the stronger my Intrinsic Flying Sword is! Therefore, staying in the Essence Soul realm in order to cultivate in divine powers is not worth it for me."


    "I''m a sword immortal. An Intrinsic Flying Sword is the strongest card I''ll ever have up my sleeve." Qin Yun knew this.


    "Speaking of which¡­"


    "Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang can be considered quite unlucky. He was already at the Skyimmortal realm when he was taken in as a disciple, making it impossible for him to cultivate in these great divine powers." Qin Yun sighed.


    Many of the Green Touring Palace disciples that were recruited by the Dao Ancestor were at the Skyimmortal level; therefore, few of them had Intrinsic Great Divine Powers.


    And those that cultivated in Intrinsic Great Divine Powers were mostly illustrious at the mortal stage or at the Essence Soul stage. During that period, they could come into contact with top great divine powers of the Three Realms.


    Although Qin Yun now had the luxury of flipping through a huge bunch of great divine powers, it was truly difficult for anyone elsewhere to learn them.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun kept reading.


    "Cultivating a divine power is not easy. There are many requirements and restrictions." Qin Yun flipped through the precious divine power Dharmic formulations one by one and pondered. "And most of time should be focused on my Sword Dao. Therefore, I need to choose one that suits my needs, a great divine power that can be easily cultivated."


    He chose one by one.


    There were really a lot of divine powers in Myriad Dharma Repository''s collection. Many of them had what it took to be labeled as a great divine power.


    "There are a total of 82 Buddhist divine powers and 155 Daoist divine powers. There are also divine powers for demons and dragons. So much has been accumulated from the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts to this day." Qin Yun did a brief browse, since he could memorize a manual in seconds. He finished browsing all of them very quickly.


    "There are two that suit me the best. They were rather famous great divine powers during the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts."


    Qin Yun looked at the two divine power Dharmic formulation manuals in front of him.


    One of the divine powers was named Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. It was a very famous domain-like great divine power. Once it was cast, 360 stars would appear. It would induce boundless stellar powers to descend, suppressing and trapping the enemy. Furthermore, the 360 stars could be used to attack the enemy. When it was cultivated to its pinnacle, this great divine power could trap 18 Golden Immortals and Buddhas within, preventing them from escaping the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    There was another divine power named Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes. It formed a robe that appeared like stellar light. It looked like a thin piece of cloth but the robe was actually a world in and of itself!


    With one''s body covered by a world, they could be insulated from the effects of space, Samsara, and even Karma when cultivated to its pinnacle. It was a very powerful great divine power.


    The Massive Stellar Heavenly Cycle Array was an massive array that had existed since the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. And these two divine powers stemmed from the Ancient Heavenly Courts.


    "My Sword Dao is best at producing the Heavenly Cycle."


    Qin Yun looked at the two divine powers. "Cultivating these two great divine powers would be relatively easy. Which one should I choose?"


    "Forget it."


    "I''ll choose both!" Qin Yun smiled. After all, he would be stuck in the Essence Soul realm for a very long time! His creation of a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage appeared bleak at the moment.


    "By cultivating both great divine powers together, I will know which one suits me more with time."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued reading the manuals in the Myriad Dharma Repository. Even though he was not cultivating, it still broadened his horizons.


    He learned of the many powerful skills employed by Daoists, Buddhists, Fiends, and the other lineages. He would be more grounded when he fought such enemies in the future.


    Unknowingly¡­


    It was noon of the next day.


    Having read for an entire day and night, Qin Yun felt as though he had broadened his horizons greatly. He also learned of many of the Three Realms'' most powerful techniques.


    "The Dao exchange banquet is about to begin." Qin Yun immediately left the Myriad Dharma Repository and headed for Clear Wind Hall.


    Green Touring Palace occupied a huge area.


    There were many important grounds as well as places specially meant for disciples to spar and discuss the Dao. Clear Wind Hall was one of them.


    The three pig demons were receiving guests outside Clear Wind Hall. When Third Pig saw Qin Yun, he immediately came forward to welcome him. At the same time, he said quickly, "Brothers, Junior Brother Qin Yun is here."


    "You came, Junior Brother Qin Yun?"


    The two pig demons joyfully came to receive him.


    "Junior Brother Qin Yun, this is my eldest brother and this is my second eldest brother," said Third Pig with a smile.


    "Greetings, Junior Brother Qin Yun." The other two pig demons were rather affable.


    Qin Yun looked them over and saw that, based on the looks of the three pig demon brothers, the eldest was rather honest-looking. The second was taller and more bulky while the youngest was a little unctuous. Their auras placed them at the eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. After all, they definitely had to fairly strong to organize a Dao exchange banquet.


    "Greetings, Senior Brothers," said Qin Yun politely.


    "Come on in! Junior Brother Qin Yun, you are early. Less than half have arrived. Third Brother, bring him in," instructed the eldest.


    Third Pig warmly brought Qin Yun into Clear Wind Hall.


    Inside, there were already more than two hundred fellow disciples. There were both humans and demons. Everyone appeared quite casual as they chatted and discussed over drinks.


    "Look, that''s Qin Yun." Five female cultivators that sat together looked at Qin Yun as they drank.


    "It''s him?"


    "This young junior brother of ours is quite handsome." One of the female cultivators had very foxy eyes. She was a fox demoness who had succeeded in her cultivation.


    "Yes, that bearing of a sword immortal in his bones makes him different." Another female cultivator beside her looked at Qin Yun with interest. She was a snake demon that had attained the Dao.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was quite well-received when he entered Clear Wind Hall.


    Among the fellow disciples, about thirty percent of them were female cultivators. And female cultivators in Green Touring Palace were usually rather bohemian. To be precise, it was common for female demon cultivators to be bohemian in the Three Realms.


    "Junior Brother, come be my guest. I live in Azure Fox Mountain in the Crimson Flames Great World." The fox demoness had already approached him passionately.


    Qin Yun smiled. "I''ll visit when I have the chance."


    "Junior Brother Qin, why don''t you dual cultivate with me in my cave abode?" A blue-robed female cultivator had an enamoring look in her eyes.


    "Senior Sister Lan, sorry, but I do not dare to," said Qin Yun.


    "You are afraid? Are you afraid I''ll eat you? You are my junior brother. I won''t steal your Yang aura," said the blue-robed female cultivator with a smile.


    Qin Yun could only remain polite.


    There were just too many kinds of people among the Green Touring Palace disciples. Some senior sisters would directly hook up with other senior brothers. With respect to this, Qin Yun was already accustomed to the practice.


    After all, he had tens of thousands of senior brothers and sisters. Nearly half of them were demons and they were usually more unrestrained than humans in their dealings.

 462 Return, Time

    Chapter 462: Return, Time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the following days, Qin Yun would often be in Myriad Dharma Repository reading. Occasionally, he would participate in gatherings of his fellow disciples.


    These senior brothers and sisters possessed myriad personalities. They were not considered big shots in the Three Realms but among them were great demon kings, patriarchs, or sect masters of their respective mountains, family clans, or sects. After Qin Yun befriended a bunch of them, his understanding of the Three Realms deepened. His senior brothers and sisters were only willing to befriend him because they thought highly of him. Otherwise, they would not be bothered to do so.


    In the past, Daoist Divine Firmament''s treatment was much poorer when he first entered Green Touring Palace.


    He was only an ordinary Skyimmortal back then. He had created a Skyimmortal Lightning Dharma but appeared rather ordinary among the Green Touring Palace disciples. Furthermore, he had already cultivated for quite a substantial amount of time.


    Qin Yun was different.


    The sword immortal lineage was well known for being good at battling. They were capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword and that was something definitely deserving of a reputation. This was also why many mighty figures attempted to infer a sword immortal Dharmic formulation.


    Qin Yun had been able to create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul realm Dharmic formulation and had only cultivated for decades! He naturally attracted the friendship of many.


    Despite being in Green Touring Palace for so long, the number of fellow disciples Daoist Divine Firmament knew could be counted on one hand.


    After about half a year in Green Touring Palace, Qin Yun already had good relationships with more than a thousand senior brothers and sisters.


    "It''s time to return."


    Qin Yun walked out of Myriad Dharma Repository feeling happy.


    It was a common adage by scholars that ''ample reading produces fluent writing.'' Qin Yun had stayed more than three months in Myriad Dharma Repository and had read through massive volumes of Dharmic formulation manuals. His understanding of the Three Realms had also deepened greatly.


    "The Three Realms are boundless and filled with experts. But from the various Dharmic formulations, one can tell if one deserves their reputation." Qin Yun sighed inwardly. "My present bit of strength is nothing worth mentioning in the grand scheme of the Three Realms."


    The more he knew, the more humble he became.


    "Time to leave."


    He activated his disciple mark, immediately feeling the massive and unfathomable powers of Green Touring Palace. With that power, he sensed his homeworld, the Great Chang world, from a distance.


    Blurry light descended upon him!


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun vanished.


    ¡­


    Homeworld: Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun silently appeared amid the clouds.


    "It''s said that the Three Realms are vast. Going from one dominion to another is only possible for Golden Immortals and other mighty figures," thought Qin Yun. "But through Green Touring Palace, we Dao Ancestor disciples are able to easily reach any dominion in the Three Realms."


    "I heard that¡­ apart from the Daoism''s Three Pure Ones''s lineage, the Heavenly Courts'' armies are able to reach any spot in the Three Realms when deployed as well. The Western Paradise''s Buddhists have similar techniques."


    Only by having means to easily reach different areas could the Heavenly Courts have the right to be considered ruler of the Three Realms! However, that was only on the surface. There were many places where the Heavenly Courts'' influence was weak.


    For example, in dominions completely ruled by the Fiends, the Heavenly Courts had no means to interfere.


    Even the Effulgent dominion¡­ was somewhere where the Heavenly Courts'' influence was weak. In all of the Three Realms, only the core dominion regions were actually under the control of the Heavenly Courts.


    "At the end of the day, it''s the fist that talks," thought Qin Yun. The massive number of manuals in the Myriad Dharma Repository had indeed allowed Qin Yun to understand the various factions hidden in the Three Realms.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun flew on a cloud and soon, he saw two figures sparring above the mirror lake in Grand Dominance City.


    "Dad!" The two figures stopped. Qin Yiyi''s eyes lit up as a faint dragon phantom soared up and immediately went straight for Qin Yun.


    Qin Yiyi immediately hugged Qin Yun.


    "Dad, you were gone for almost half a year. I thought you would be cultivating for decades." Qin Yiyi missed her father. In the past, Qin Yun had acted only as a senior that taught her sword arts. After they finally recognized each other as father and daughter, they had less than half a day together before Qin Yun headed to Green Touring Palace for cultivation. Qin Yiyi naturally missed her father greatly.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao flew to their side. She looked much happier as she now had a daughter to accompany her. "Why are you back so quickly after cultivating as the Dao Ancestor''s disciple? I heard that Divine Firmament Ancestral Master''s second Essence Soul has been cultivating in Green Touring Palace all this while."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Green Touring Palace has numerous disciples but in fact, most of them live across the Three Realms. Only a small number actually cultivate in Green Touring Palace for an extended period of time."


    "Oh?" Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi were rather curious about Green Touring Palace and looked forward to hearing more about it.


    After all, it was the Dao residence of the Dao Ancestor, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "I have learned all the Dharmic formulations and divine powers I should learn," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I''ve returned to our homeworld to cultivate. To be honest, I would find it too hard to calm my mind if I were to stay in Green Touring Palace for hundreds or thousands of years."


    "When do you plan on returning?" inquired Yi Xiao.


    "There''s no rush."


    Qin Yun felt that his homeworld''s environment and the companionship of his wife and daughter would allow his cultivation to be even more satisfying.


    One''s state of mind was at times the most important thing.


    Although Green Touring Palace had many sacred lands that were suitable for cultivation, according to the insights Qin Yun gleaned from reading the numerous manuals¡­ one should usually cultivate diligently in ordinary places, and only when they hit a bottleneck should they visit a suitable sacred land for cultivation to make that breakthrough!


    "It''s almost lunch time. I''m starving. In the past half year in Green Touring Palace, I have literally been feeding on the wind and drinking the dew," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright. I''ll prepare a meal for you," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Dad, I''ll do it. I have learned how to make a quite a number of dishes. I''ll personally do the cooking today. You can try my cooking," said Qin Yiyi immediately.


    "Alright. I shall have a taste of my daughter''s cooking." Qin Yun was very happy to say that.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun took up residence in Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor once again. The mirror lake became his cultivation grounds where he often calmed his mind and cultivated in various sword arts over its peaceful surface.


    He primarily focused on the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art, as well as the secondary Five Directions Sword Sutra, Netherfiend Records, Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart, and Only Me Sword Song. Occasionally, he would spend some time and effort to study the two great divine powers. He also spent time with his wife and daughter¡­ Qin Yun''s cultivation days were naturally happy and carefree!


    Although he secluded himself in his homeworld, the Great Chang world, the attention Qin Yun received was far greater than Daoist Divine Firmament of yesteryear. Many of the sect masters of the Numinous treasure lineage in the Effulgent dominion, as well as some reclusive experts, would visit the Great Chang world in avatar form! Although many of them had cultivated for millions of years or more, they still called a junior like Qin Yun ''uncle-master.''


    In a blink of an eye, it had been three years since Qin Yun returned to his homeworld.


    "Boom!"


    A hidden door opened in the Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Daoist Divine Firmament walked out from within. His body emanated remnant lightning bolts as his eyes had a tinge of excitement.


    "Now that everything is ready, it''s time I proceed to kill that Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord." Daoist Divine Firmament suddenly laughed. "Qin Yun is really quite a character. He returned after less than half a year in Green Touring Palace."


    With one step, he vanished into thin air.


    When he appeared again, he was already above Grand Dominance City.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged by the mirror lake, sensed it and looked up. He smiled and beckoned his hand. The Misty Rain Sword, which had already become a medial-grade Numinous treasure, was summoned back. With a flash, it left behind a blurry mark in midair before it was stored back inside his body.


    "Junior Brother Qin Yun, you have really been leading quite a pleasant life these days." Daoist Divine Firmament flew down. "You returned after spending less than a year in a sacred land like the Green Touring Palace. From the looks of it, your wife and daughter are far more attractive than Green Touring Palace."


    Qin Yun got up and welcomed him. "Senior Brother Zhang, that''s exactly right."


    As he spoke, Qin Yun sensed that Daoist Divine Firmament''s aura appeared to have changed. It was a lot more profound and it even vaguely threatened him. He could not help but say with a smile, "Senior Brother, you wiped out the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons a few years ago alone. Now that your cultivation in the Myriad Dharma Pool has ended, I believe your strength has improved even further."


    "It''s nothing worth flaunting." Daoist Divine Firmament shook his head gently. "Junior Brother Qin Yun, you are also aware that the Myriad Dharma Pool is the biggest opportunity for us Green Touring Palace disciples! The other disciples wouldn''t enter it until they reach the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm. Only then do they enter seclusion to break through that bottleneck. I have done so early and although my strength has greatly improved¡­ it will be difficult to raise my strength further in the future."


    "Senior Brother, why were you so in a rush to use the Myriad Dharma Pool?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "It''s that Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord," replied Daoist Divine Firmament. "You know well that the Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord, Kuifu, paid a huge price in order to occupy our Great Chang world. He must have a special reason for doing so. It''s also why I vanquished all the fiends in the Great Chang world ahead of time. By doing so, our Great Chang world will not have any openings left. They can forget about sneakily entering to set up arrays. And today, I''m setting off to kill Kuifu."


    "Kill Kuifu?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    That Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord¡­ was someone Qin Yun hated vehemently as well.


    After all, it was because of him that he nearly lost his wife and daughter forever! He was only able to save the both of them was because he had acted quickly. Even so, he had nearly failed.


    Also, his wife and daughter had suffered quite tremendously.


    Qin Yun was already filled with killing intent at the mere thought, wishing to eliminate Kuifu.


    Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord Kuifu is a child of a big family clan in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. He has also cultivated an Intrinsic Divine Power and is very strong," said Qin Yun. "Senior Brother, are you confident?"


    "I don''t dare to say I''m absolutely confident," replied Daoist Divine Firmament. "I only have 80% confidence."


    "Senior Brother, have you already been to the Star Cluster Hall?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Daoist Divine Firmament nodded slightly.


    "Impressive." Qin Yun was indeed impressed.


    "Whatever needs preparing has been prepared." Daoist Divine Firmament nodded. "Alright, it''s time I set off now that I have met you again."


    "Then, Senior Brother, let me congratulate you in advance for successfully slaying that Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord," said Qin Yun.


    "Wait for my good news."


    Daoist Divine Firmament nodded before flying far into the distance.


    Qin Yun looked up and continued to watch from afar.


    "I hope Senior Brother succeeds." Qin Yun felt a sense of anticipation.

 463 Pursuing Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord

    Chapter 463: Pursuing Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Three months later.


    In the boundless sea of stars outside the fiend world.


    "I want to see who it is that foiled my plans." Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord Kuifu led more than ten Skyfiends as they flew to the periphery of the fiendcelestial world. Not long after they flew into the void¨C


    "Stop!"


    Empyrean Lord shouted. The Skyfiends under him carefully surveyed their surroundings in shock.


    "Come on out." Empyrean Lord stared into the distance.


    "Whoosh."


    A figure appeared in the distant void before splitting into two. The two figures were identical in appearance.


    One of them was a purple-robed Daoist while the other was a blue-robed Daoist. Both of them were Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Whoosh." Streams of lightning flew out of the purple-robed Daoist and went in every direction. They were the twelve Lightning Godfiends, who had floated around them with lighting sparking across their bodies. All of them had stout bodies and coldly stared at the Empyrean Lord and his Skyfiends.


    "Empyrean Lord, long time no see." The purple-robed and blue-robed Daoists spoke in unison.


    "It''s you. The Great Chang world''s Daoist Divine Firmament?" Kuifu scanned his surroundings and laughed. "What happened? There''s only you, a second Essence Soul, and twelve Capital Heaven Godfiends? You plan to deal with me using only that?"


    "Precisely." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly.


    "It looks like you are filled with confidence after breaking through to the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. Perfect. I happen to be a sixth fiend Skyfiend myself," said Kuifu with a faint smile. "Let me see how powerful you Daoist Green Touring Palace disciples are!"


    Kuifu was confident but the Skyfiends that accompanied him were extremely nervous.


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s true body and his second Essence Soul bellowed simultaneously, "Come, lightning!"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Instantly, thousands of bolts of lightning gathered and tore through the starry cosmos.


    The twelve Lightning Godfiends formed an array formation and, with his own body as a catalyst for the Divine Firmament Dharmic powers, he guided the lightning forces through the void. Instantly, thousands of terrifying lightning bolts struck down, turning the region into a sea of lightning! Kuifu was left stunned. He quickly conjured his Skyfiend Dharmic powers to protect his subordinates but, amid sizzling sounds, the barrier formed by his Skyfiend Dharmic powers was torn apart by the surging lightning bolts.


    "Ah!"


    "Save me!"


    "Empyrean Lord!" These Skyfiends were panicking as they tried their best to resist. However, they were pulverized by the sea of lightning. Even if more than half of them cultivated their bodies, none of them could withstand the terrifying lightning.


    The surroundings calmed down.


    The lightning emanated, leaving Kuifu with not even a single subordinate around him. His face took on an ugly expression.


    The strongest thing about him was his physical body. A layer of sanguine light enveloped the surface of his body, allowing him to resist the lightning.


    "What an impressive lightning array formation," said Kuifu through clenched teeth. "Ordinary fifth or sixth firmament Skyfiends would be dead if trapped inside it."


    "Empyrean Lord, you are a child of a huge family clan in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. You cultivate in a great divine power and, in terms of strength, you can match the eighth to ninth firmament Skyfiend realm. How can this bit of strength injure you? All I did was rid us of those Skyfiends so we could face each other in quiet." Ancestral Master Zhang''s true body and avatar remained very calm.


    Kuifu''s expression changed.


    Daoist Divine Firmament was still so confident despite knowing his strength?


    "There is talk that Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s newly-recruited disciple, Daoist Divine Firmament, is extremely weak. Despite cultivating for thousands of years, he remains stuck at the third firmament Skyimmortal realm," said Kuifu. "I never expected you to be keeping a low profile all this time. The last time I saw you, you vanquished many of my guardians, exposing your strength to be that of a sixth firmament Skyimmortal. Your present strength is nearly at the ninth firmament. Why have you been keeping a low profile despite having such mighty strength?"


    "It was not me keeping a low profile," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "It''s quite embarrassing, actually. Just a few years ago, my strength was indeed only that of a sixth firmament."


    "You became that much stronger in a few years? Do you think me a fool?" Kuifu sneered.


    "It''s precisely because of your threat that I was forced to use the Myriad Dharma Pool ahead of time. I was lucky to be able to get to my present state," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Empyrean Lord Kuifu, I can spare you this time as long as you answer my question honestly."


    Kuifu frowned. "You think you have what it takes to kill me? As for the question, why don''t you just say it?"


    "Empyrean Lord, why did you pay such a tremendous price to occupy my Great Chang world?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at him.


    Kuifu''s heart jolted.


    The reason¡­ was his greatest secret!


    "Hahaha, do I need a reason for conquering a world?" Kuifu scoffed. "I''m a Skyfiend. The more worlds I conquer, the more the Heavenly Dao bestows upon me."


    "Back then, the Boor Ancestral Sect array formation had only been in its nascent state. If you had set it up completely, the price paid would be ridiculous. You even sent more than a hundred fiendcelestial guardians despite lacking the confidence just to maintain that sliver of hope," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "You can honestly tell me there''s no special reason even though you were willing to pay such a heavy price?"


    "I''m a fiend. I do whatever I want." Kuifu scoffed. "I''ve given you the answer. I wanted to conquer your world so I attempted the conquest. That''s all. Do you still want to continue this fight?"


    "Empyrean Lord, you really think of me as a fool. Fine, since you wish to die, I will fulfill your wish," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    A Dao talisman phantom appeared behind his actual body.


    As for his second Essence Soul, a huge seal appeared in his hands.


    "Go."


    The purple-robed Daoist cast lightning while the twelve Lightning Godfiends aided him. The Daoist phantom condensed a bolt of lightning that contained a nebulous aura of Chaos. It was released with its horrific and cold might.


    "Go."


    The blue-robed Daoist threw out the huge seal which expanded as it flew out. It transformed into a tiny mountain as the seal became covered in dense lightning patterns. On it were the tiny, faint words¡ª"Lightning Division Five Three Envoy."


    Empyrean Lord''s expression changed drastically upon seeing this turn of events. "Chaos Divine Lightning? The Heavenly Courts'' Lightning Division''s supreme-grade Numinous treasure seal? Shit!"


    ¡­


    This terrifying bout continued for a few moments.


    "Boom!" Empyrean Lord''s body was severely injured by a blow and he was trying hard to recover from it.


    "I have already said that you can be spared if you answer me honestly." Ancestral Master Zhang shouted.


    "Hahaha¡­ I already told you but you refuse to believe me."


    Kuifu roared with laughter. "Daoist Divine Firmament, you are truly ruthless. I never expected you to force me to do this."


    "Time to leave."


    Suddenly, a blob of white mist rose and enveloped Empyrean Lord. His body began to dematerialize as his figure turned faint.


    Sou!


    He quickly charged out the twelve Lightning Godfiends'' barricade. His speed was so fast that even Ancestral Master Zhang''s Lightning Dharma, which he was most adept in, was far from comparable. Kuifu escaped far into the distance. Without the repression of the twelve Lightning Godfiends array formation, Kuifu engaged in Void Transference and completely vanished.


    "Darn it."


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression turned nasty. "I never expected him to have something so rare. He actually managed to escape my array formation."


    "He is willing to use such a precious item to flee for his life rather than tell me his reason for conquering the Great Chang world." Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression turned heavy. "It looks like there''s real trouble brewing."


    "However¡­ I''ll kill as many fiendcelestials as they send to the Great Chang world." Ancestral Master Zhang flicked his sleeve as the twelve Lightning Godfiends transformed into streams of light and entered his body.


    Whoosh.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and his second Essence Soul were immediately covered in a blurry light as they rapidly departed.


    ******


    That day in the Great Chang world. Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun sat across from Ancestral Master Zhang while Yi Xiao sat at their side, pouring their tea.


    "You failed?" Qin Yun was alarmed. "You failed to kill that Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord, Kuifu?"

 464 Seclusive Cultivation In Broken Sword Valley

    Chapter 464: Seclusive Cultivation In Broken Sword Valley


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun believed it was in the bag when Ancestral Master Zhang mentioned that he was eighty percent confident.


    "It was not easy for me to lure him out of his nest. I had also made adequate preparations." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "I never expected him to have a rare life-preservation item just for fleeing. I failed to restrain him too. But in fact, killing him has little influence over the Great Chang world. What''s most important of all is my wish to know¡­ why he wants to conquer our Great Chang world."


    "Does our Great Chang world have some senior''s cave abode? Some treasure? Or does the Great Chang world hold some secret of the fiendish way?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I have traversed every spot in the Great Chang world the past few years. I have thoroughly checked the land and sea. East Sea Skydragon and Brother Bai have both searched meticulously as well." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "We have not discovered anything special about our Great Chang world."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Back when Yi Xiao was abducted, I searched the world and did so very meticulously. I even used the Eye of Lightning to seek treasures but failed to find anything special."


    "The more it can''t be found, the more uneasy I become," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Senior Brother, the Great Chang world is a Small World. Golden Immortals and Buddha mighty figures are unable to descend into our world. Our homeworld''s Heavenly Dao is on our side as well, repressing the fiendcelestials. As long as you, with your strength, are here, I believe any schemes the fiendcelestials concoct are little more than wishful thinking," said Qin Yun.


    "The fiendcelestials can forget about succeeding as long as I''m in the Great Chang world," said Ancestral Master Zhang. Following that, he looked at Qin Yun. "Junior Brother Qin Yun, I attained such strength by using the Myriad Dharma Pool. Improving further will be difficult. Your talent and perceptivity are probably above mine¡­ You have to quickly improve yourself to join forces with me and increase our chances."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    Ancestral Master Zhang felt a little more relieved. All these years, he had been quite alone in the Great Chang world. It was because all the Skyimmortals and Skydemons were weaker than him.


    Now, he finally saw someone that had a chance of chasing up to him.


    ¡­


    Moments later, Ancestral Master Zhang left.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the side of the mirror lake when Yi Xiao came over.


    "Brother Yun, didn''t Ancestral Master Zhang mention that he entered the Star Cluster Hall?" asked Yi Xiao. "Why do I feel that he lacks confidence?"


    "He truly went all-out, exposing his true strength. If the fiendcelestials were to take action again, they would definitely be fully prepared," said Qin Yun. "And most importantly of all, he has reached a bottleneck. It''s going be difficult for him to raise his strength any further for quite a while; thus, he is naturally worried."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    "I plan on heading to Green Touring Palace after finishing my meal today," said Qin Yun.


    "How long will you be gone this time?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "No idea, but it shouldn''t be long."


    "Alright."


    Yi Xiao nodded and said with a smile, "Then, I''ll personally cook for you today." With that said, she left.


    Qin Yun smiled as he watched his wife leave before closing his eyes.


    "Chi!"


    Endless starlight emitted from Qin Yun''s body that washed over the surroundings. Instantly, his surroundings were covered in a gorgeous starry scene.


    From a distant stellar space, limitless stellar forces tore through and descended upon his surroundings. They each gathered into stellar phantoms the size of a fist and made 360 stellar phantoms total. There was stellar light swirling amid them, making the entire area form a world of its own.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Change."


    Each of the stellar phantoms condensed from stellar forces slowly transformed into a Sword of Stellar Light.


    Soon, there were 360 Swords of Stellar Light that drove the stellar forces.


    "After I gathered enough treasures, I only took a year to get a basic grasp of these two great divine powers. However, making any further improvements would be a lot more difficult." Qin Yun thought nothing much of it in the past since simply grasping the great divine powers was very difficult to begin with. Qin Yun had only taken a year to gain a basic grasp because his Sword Dao happened to complement the two divine powers well and because his Sword Dao realm was quite high.


    It was only normal that the subsequent cultivation would go slowly.


    However, Qin Yun felt that he should try to improve himself and breakthrough as soon as possible.


    "Engaging in the painstaking work of slowly improving and chasing a breakthrough is just too difficult. I''d probably spend thousands of years if I did that," thought Qin Yun. "It''s better if I cultivate my Sword Dao. Once it''s realm is high, the cultivation of a divine power becomes faster as well."


    The Dao was fundamental.


    At a high realm, divine powers, Dharmic powers, Dharma spells, and a self-created Dharmic formulation would all come relatively easier.


    "Having been back in my homeworld for three years now, I have learned plenty from the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art and the other four sword manuals. I''m beginning to enter a bottleneck. I hope I can make a breakthrough by using the special grounds in Green Touring Palace," thought Qin Yun.


    ******


    That day, he had lunch with his wife and daughter before he departed the Great Chang world for the Green Touring Palace.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Qin Yun appeared in Green Touring Palace.


    Green Touring Palace''s temperature was much colder than his homeworld''s. Absorbing the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies into his body seemed to lighten his body. As the Dao residence of Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, even an ordinary yard in Green Touring Palace had much better cultivation effects than a specially constructed chamber in his homeworld, to say nothing of the palace''s actual cultivation grounds.


    "Why is there such a bustle?" Qin Yun saw a group of senior brothers and sisters gathered in the distance.


    "Junior Brother Qin Yun." A azure-robed female cultivator took one step forward when she saw him. Phasing away, she appeared beside him.


    "Senior Sister Lan," greeted Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Junior Brother, seriously! You were gone for more than three years and never came back once." The female cultivator smiled as she leaned close to him.


    Qin Yun slightly dodged her and smiled immediately, "Senior Sister, what''s happening up ahead? Is someone sparring? Why are so many fellow disciples gathered?"


    "No, it''s Senior Brother Feng. He''s declared he''ll be giving pointers to his junior brothers and sisters. Therefore, a bunch of fellow disciples have rushed over." Only then did the female cultivator stand up straight.


    "Senior Brother Feng?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    "Skyimmortal Feng Li." The female cultivator said wistfully, "Senior Brother Feng''s wind-riding divine power is very impressive. Typical ninth firmament Skyimmortals can be blown to a bloody mush by his wind. He is even able to escape mighty figure with it. The people gathered there to seek Senior Brother Feng''s help are likely skilled in wind-riding techniques."


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    "It''s the same with Green Touring Palace. The stronger one is, the more you are extolled." The female cultivator sighed before changing topics. "By the way, did you know that Master took in a disciple one year ago?"


    "Isn''t it normal for Master to take in disciples?" asked Qin Yun with a smile.


    "It''s different."


    She shook her head gently. "This disciple has been summoned by Master three times over the span of a year."


    "What, he was summoned three times?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    Under normal circumstances, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor would only give a disciple guidance once before they became a Golden Immortal.


    "This junior brother''s name is Yu Gui," whispered the female cultivator. "I heard that he was quite dimwitted from a young age and had never cultivated at all. At fifteen, he saw a monolith surface in a river. After seeing the patterns on the monolith, he stood watching it in a daze for three days and was directly enlightened in the Dao, reaching the Skyimmortal realm instantly."


    "What?" Qin Yun was stunned. "He had never cultivated before but suddenly reached the Skyimmortal realm after three days of Dao enlightenment?"


    "Then, Master appeared before him and brought him to Green Touring Palace." The female cultivator sighed. "He was guided very carefully and was summoned thrice in a year. Junior Brother Yu is presently a sixth firmament Skyimmortal."


    Qin Yun felt a little lost for words.


    "Many of our fellow disciples are envious of him. Master is indeed biased towards our junior brother but envy amounts to nothing," said the female cultivator helplessly.


    "We already owe Master for teaching us once. Why should we harp on such matters?" Qin Yun shook his head.


    "We are guessing that Junior Brother Yu¡­ might have some serious background." The female cultivator whispered, "Perhaps he''s the reincarnation of some important figure."


    ¡­


    On the way, he had a series of simple exchanges with the senior brothers and sisters he was familiar with.


    An hour later, he came to the periphery of Green Touring Palace. There was a tiny trail that led deep into the clouds.


    Qin Yun stepped into it.


    "Broken Sword Valley should be very suitable for my Sword Dao cultivation." Qin Yun continued proceeding.


    "Whoosh~" The wind inside began to turn increasingly forceful.


    He arrived at a mountain valley after a few minutes of walking. There were swords embedded in the valley. Some were intact or in damaged states. At a glance, he saw more than ten thousand swords as Sword Qi filled the valley.


    There were mountain peaks surrounding the valley. Many Green Touring Palace disciples were cultivating at these mountaintops, the mountainside, and even the cliffs of the numerous mountains.


    "There are more than two hundred disciples cultivating here in seclusion? Some of them have probably been cultivating for a very long time." Qin Yun sighed inwardly as he swept his surroundings with his gaze. He chose a spot on the mountainside and, with a step forward, whistled over.


    When he landed on the mountainside, he waved his hand, carving out a spot about ten feet across.


    Following that, he sat cross-legged.


    He closed his eyes and could clearly sense a terrifying sword intent permeate the surrounding void.

 465 Epiphany

    Chapter 465: Epiphany


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The sword intent of the area had formed a body due to their mutual interactions over time. It also repulsed all other energy, making the void of the land become a world of pure sword intent.


    "After reading the Covetous Wolf sword art in the Skywolf world, my Sword Dao broke through to the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm giving my Dao domain a span of a hundred and fifty kilometers," thought Qin Yun. "Later, I created the Essence Soul Dharmic formulation and Master even preached the Dao to me personally. These past few years, I have been cultivating in the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art and the other sword manuals. I have accumulated a lot but I''m still stuck in the bottleneck of the Skyimmortal realm''s mid-stages. I have no idea as to when I can break through."


    "It gets much harder to break through the further one gets into the three major Skyimmortal realms. According to Senior Brother Zhang, his Lightning Dao was only able to break through to the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm because he entered the Myriad Dharma Pool."


    "How do I break through to the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm?"


    Qin Yun pondered.


    Breaking through a bottleneck was indeed difficult.


    Even among the many Green Touring Palace disciples, many of them were trapped at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm! It was equivalent to the middle-stages of the Skyimmortal realm.


    Qin Yun was considered someone with monstrous talent. As an itinerant cultivator, he had reached the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm and created his own sword immortal Dharmic formulation. But later, after having the Dao Ancestor preach the Dao to him, studying the five Golden Immortal level sword manuals, and cultivating two Heavenly Cycle great divine powers, he still remained stuck within the mid-stage Skyimmortal bottleneck.


    "Breakthroughs are truly difficult."


    "Senior Sister Lan mentioned that Junior Brother Yu Gui previously. He had not cultivated before, but after looking at a monument when he was fifteen, he reached the Skyimmortal realm after three days. He is suspected to be the reincarnation of a mighty figure. Master has been painstakingly teaching him for a year, and although he has improved by leaps and bounds, he has also temporarily come to a stop at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm," sighed Qin Yun.


    Being a sixth firmament Skyimmortal meant that one was an expert in the vast Three Realms but they were also commonly seen.


    As for eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortals¡­ they were truly rare.


    In situations where Golden Immortals, Buddhas, or Ancestral Fiends did not appear, those Skyimmortals stood atop all. To use the top sects in the Effulgent Great World as an example, those sects typically only had one or two eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortals.


    As for Green Touring Palace, ever since Pangu split the heaven and earth apart, it had seen tens of thousands of disciples from all over the Three Realms over the ages. They had been guided by the Dao Ancestor and had the chance to step into the Myriad Dharma Pool but¡­ the number that reached the eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm remained tiny in proportion.


    "The breakthrough at this step is so difficult. It only means it will be more difficult to achieve the Golden Immortal Dao fruit," sighed Qin Yun.


    "I should just calm my mind and slowly accumulate as much as I can."


    "Once I accumulate to a certain extent, I believe things will come naturally with ripe conditions."


    Qin Yun calmed his mind and began carefully experiencing the sword intent.


    Broken Sword Valley was a world of sword intent.


    A large amount of sword intent belonged to pinnacle Skyimmortals. There was even sword intent at the Golden Immortal level.


    ¡­


    Days passed and, in a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had been cultivating for three months.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the mountainside. His Dao domain enveloped his surroundings as he released a wisp of whitish-gold Sword Qi that sliced through the void.


    Although he was practicing his sword moves, he was doing it within his Dao domain and that prevented him from disturbing others. After all, Broken Sword Valley was a place where many disciples cultivated.


    "No, it still doesn''t work."


    "Although my accumulations are turning more robust, I keep feeling like there''s no qualitative change." Qin Yun stopped and took a rest to relax his mind. He flipped his hand and took out an alcohol flask. He then drank as he looked at his surroundings.


    There were Green Touring Palace disciples sitting cross-legged on the mountaintop, mountainside, and the cliffs while they cultivated.


    "They are all cultivating."


    "These are all disciples that the Dao Ancestor took in. All of them are highly perceptive and talented."


    "The cultivation path is just like this. Regardless of how talented one is, one has to have the patience and forge forward bravely. If one allows themselves to drift along¡­ how is it possible to become a true mighty figure?" Qin Yun took another swig of his alcohol before putting it away. He planned to continue cultivating.


    But suddenly¡ª


    Qin Yun''s eyes swept across the countless sword intent in the valley and he was left stunned.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun had been in the Broken Sword Valley for three months. He was long familiar with the sight of it.


    But at that moment, Qin Yun had discovered something. It was something he did not pay too much attention to despite constantly seeing it for three months.


    "Whoosh~" Although Broken Sword Valley had a lot of sword intent, it gradually formed a sword intent world revolving around the sword intent at the Golden Immortal levels over time.


    "Trends?" Qin Yun muttered.


    Sword arts moves from the five sword manuals he learned surfaced in his mind as he suddenly seemed to see the light.


    "There are limits to what books can offer! Despite having learned all of that, all I have seen is the tip of the iceberg. I did not see it for what it really is," muttered Qin Yun. "Master was right. Only something I figure out myself belongs to me!"


    Qin Yun looked at the valley in front of him.


    "Countless sword intent influencing itself over time, naturally forming such a general trend."


    "Everything has a trend."


    "A raging river follows the trend of the river flow. Even if there are distributaries that flow in the opposite direction, the general trend is in one direction."


    "Even in a country formed by countless people, the society develops according to a general trend. Even across the long span of history, events occur in a general trends! By following this general trend, everything can be done harmoniously. Going against it makes every step difficult."


    "The Three Realms'' Great Dao has Great Dao trends as well."


    "As for my Sword Dao¡­ it lacks such a general trend!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of Sword Qi flew out. It was ordinary and lacked the dominance of the Sword Qi that was produced by Qin Yun''s casting of the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art but it had an indescribable charm.


    However, as he released one Sword Qi after another, the might of these Sword Qi became stronger and stronger! Like a rolling snowball, that power grew in size as time passed. It was like a tidal wave that would become more turbulent with time! And these Sword Qi were the same. As the Sword Qi were unleashed, the might constantly increased.


    Eventually, the might turned extremely horrifying.


    "Dao begets One, One begets Two, Two begets Three, Three begets all things."


    "It is deemed as a general trend."


    There was a dazzling glint in Qin Yun''s eyes. While he took in the might of the terrifying Sword Qi which appeared as tempestuous as an avalanche, his mind stirred as the Sword Qi dissipated.


    Qin Yun closed his eyes and sat cross-legged.


    In his heart, his Sword Dao was metamorphosing¡­


    ¡­


    Just three days after he sat to contemplate what he figured out, there was a rumble. When he opened his eyes again, Qin Yun felt that his Dao domain had undergone a qualitative change. Having reached the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm, his Dao domain spanned three hundred kilometers!


    "Following this, there''s only clear skies ahead. As long as I slowly accumulate, I will reach another bottleneck." Qin Yun smiled. "This breakthrough was really difficult but the next one will be hundreds of times more difficult. After all, breaking through to attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit is the dream of countless immortals."


    There were bound to be greater obstacles in the future. Qin Yun did not think too much about it.


    It was still very early for him.


    His becoming the Dao Ancestor''s disciple, the cultivation of the five sword manuals, and the epiphany in Broken Sword Valley, all these allowed him to break through the bottleneck to reach the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm.


    He was now truly at the level of one of the experts of the Three Realms.


    "Next, I will nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword. With my breakthrough in Sword Dao, my Intrinsic Flying Sword can be nurtured to the superior-grade Numinous treasure level." Qin Yun was filled with anticipation but he also turned troubled. "However, I no longer have enough treasures to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword. To cultivate the two great divine powers, I even had to sell that superior-grade Minor Empyrean Seal from before."


    The two divine powers that Qin Yun chose were great divine powers back in the Ancient Heavenly Courts era!


    Thankfully, simply grasping it only required external objects, but even so it had drained Qin Yun of all his treasures. He had even sought the help of his senior brothers and sisters to gather the materials.


    "It''s time to leave." Qin Yun smiled as he got up.


    As he looked at the other disciples that were continuing their cultivation in Broken Sword Valley, Qin Yun felt rather happy. He immediately departed the mountainside and left through the tiny path he took when he came.

 466 Three Targets

    Chapter 466: Three Targets


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside the sect master cave abode of the Golden Light Sect, one of the top sects of the Effulgent Great World.


    Yu Tong sat cross-legged cultivating on a mat. With an angry grunt, two streams of gases spewed out of his nostrils as they circled to fill the chamber. Yu Tong then took another deep breath, bringing the two streams back into his body through his nostrils.


    "Oh?" Yu Tong frowned slightly. "Who is it that''s contacting me at this moment?"


    He flicked his sleeve.


    The void beside him produced ripples, soon showing the scene of a lakeside in a distant space. Qin Yun was standing there, looking over and smiling.


    "Ah, Uncle-Master Qin." Yu Tong immediately stood up and smiled. "Uncle-Master Qin, I''m honored that you would think of me."


    Although his Yu family had a decent background in the Numinous Treasure lineage, he still held Qin Yun in high regard! According to the news he had gathered, this Uncle-Master Qin Yun was capable of fighting Wuli Jiushou of the Skywolf world despite being a mere itinerant cultivator. At the very least, he had a combat strength that matched the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. And that was before he became a disciple of the Dao Ancestor!


    Now that he had been recruited into Green Touring Palace, Yu Tong was certain that Qin Yun would soar.


    He was likely to become an illustrious existence in the Effulgent dominion in less than a millennia! He was naturally very warm towards such an accomplished man.


    "Sect Master Yu Tong, I do have to ask you for help," said Qin Yun.


    "Uncle-Master Qin, what is it?" asked Yu Tong immediately. "As long as I can help you, I''ll definitely do my best."


    "I need detailed intelligence on the experts in the Effulgent dominion," said Qin Yun. "I want those at the fourth or fifth Skyfiend realm as well."


    "Intelligence?"


    Yu Tong laughed. "That''s simple! I''m the head of a sect. I naturally have gathered such intelligence long ago."


    With that said, Yu Tong flipped his hand as scrolls appeared in his palm. He flicked them, sending the scrolls tearing through the void and flying towards the distant Great Chang world using a void passageway. While that happened, Yu Tong added, "Uncle-Master Qin, some of this intelligence is new and some old. On the people that aren''t very famous, the intelligence is from thousands or even tens of thousands of years ago. However, when it comes to those with greater fame we have the latest intelligence."


    The scrolls were nonliving objects so sending them were very simple. Soon, they arrived in the hands of Qin Yun.


    "That''s enough," said Qin Yun. "Thanks."


    "It''s nothing," said Yu Tong with a jovial chuckle. "If there''s nothing else, I won''t disturb you any further."


    Soon, the void ripples came to a close.


    Yu Tong pondered and muttered to himself, "For him to request that kind of intelligence from me, is he planning to kill some Skyfiends so as to pass the tests of Green Touring Palace? That''s right. He already matched the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm before he was taken in as a disciple."


    ******


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance Qin Manor. Beside the mirror lake.


    Qin Yun unfurled the scrolls and swept through them with his Dharmic powers. Immediately, large amounts of information surged into his Essence Soul.


    "I''ve found it. Hawk Fiend King Che Jie." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Acquiring treasures from others causes us to be bound by karma! It''s now time to sever this karma."


    Years ago, in order to gather the required treasures to seek Puqu Dragonlord''s help in saving Yi Xiao, he had gone to the Ancient Augury world in search of treasure.


    In the Ancient Augury world¡­


    Qin Yun had encountered the dead Skyimmortal Fang Rong in a cave abode.


    Skyimmortal Fang Rong''s last words carried the implication of being bound by karma after receiving his treasures! He only had one request¡­ He hoped that the person who found his treasure could help avenge him by killing Hawk Fiend King Che Jie when they had the absolute confidence to do so.


    Fang Rong had left this request as his last will but he was not confident about it.


    After all, his most precious item was only a medial-grade Numinous treasure. Even so, he required the person to travel across the Other Realm cosmos to kill the extremely powerful Hawk Fiend King Che Jie. This was indeed wishful thinking. After all, not everyone was like Green Touring Palace disciples who could easily head for any spot in the Three Realms. Back then, Qin Yun was still relatively weak and in desperate need of treasures. Since Fang Rong had mentioned that the revenge should only be sought with absolute confidence, Qin Yun did not hesitate to take the treasures and be bound by karma.


    "Hawk Fiend King Che Jie, sixth firmament Skydemon. Most adept in escaping arts. I might have had a chance of defeating him if I had used all my strength in the past, but killing him would have been very difficult. After all, he is innately built for flying and he cultivates in a divine power called the Golden Wing Escape Art. Although it''s an ordinary escaping divine power, he has cultivated it to a profound level," thought Qin Yun. "But now, I am absolutely confident thanks to my Sword Dao breakthrough."


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao walked over from afar and asked with a smile, "What are you looking at?"


    "Some intelligence." Qin Yun smiled as he threw the scroll in his hand to his wife. "Take a look for yourself."


    Yi Xiao extended her hand to grab it. When she unfurled it, she swept it with her Dharmic powers and also obtained the intelligence about most of the experts in the Effulgent dominion.


    "Why did you get all this intelligence?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. "Do you plan on killing Skyfiends to pass the Green Touring Palace''s tests?"


    "I do not have enough treasures to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword at the moment. I naturally need to pass the test to obtain the treasures Master left for us disciples," said Qin Yun with a smile. "This is also the very simple first round of tests. Senior Brother Zhang had to slay at least a seventh firmament Skyfiend before he passed the second round of tests to obtain the treasures in Star Cluster Hall."


    Although Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure took in many disciples, he could not bestow all of them with copious amounts of treasures.


    The stronger one was, the more treasures one could obtain.


    Therefore there were three rounds of tests.


    The first round was to slay Skyfiends or extremely vile figures. The targeted strength had to be at least the fourth firmament Skyfiend! In addition, at least three of those needed to be slain to pass the test.


    Those that could reach the fourth firmament Skyfiend realm could typically reach the fifth or sixth firmament by cultivating for some time. They were all capable figures. Defeating them was easy but slaying them was rather difficult. Therefore, killing three would be even more difficult. For the Green Touring Palace disciples that were stuck at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm, they had to cultivate in potent divine powers or master extremely powerful Dharma spells to have any chance of doing so.


    If not, they might end up losing their own lives instead of taking the enemy''s.


    The second round of tests was similarly to slay Skyfiends or extremely vile figures. The targeted strength had to be at least the seventh firmament Skyfiend! Only one kill was needed.


    This was even harder. At the very least, a seventh firmament Skyfiend¡­ was considered a mighty expert in the Three Realms. They were also very good at life preservation.


    Typically, if one could complete this task¡­ it meant that they were cream of the crop among the ninth firmament Skyimmortals.


    Ancestral Master Zhang had succeeded in doing so, passing the second round of tests, gaining him entry into the Star Cluster Hall to obtain treasures.


    The third round of tests actually didn''t require killing enemies! Instead, one needed to attain the Golden Immortal Dao fruit. As long as one was cultivated to that point, their Master, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, would bestow them with great gifts. It was very common to be bestowed a Connate Numinous treasure.


    And after that?


    Their subsequent cultivation would all depend on themselves. Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s help would be limited at that point.


    "Which three are you choosing?" asked Yi Xiao. "There is a lot of information here. Try to choose the easier ones."


    "I''ve just chosen one. Hawk Fiend King Che Jie," said Qin Yun.


    "Ah!" Yi Xiao could not help but say, "Why did you choose him? Although he is riddled with heinous sins, that is only considered normal among the numerous Skyfiends. Furthermore, his escape arts are formidable. Most importantly, he lives with an old tree demon. That old tree demon is also a sixth firmament Skydemon and has an extremely strong body. It would be difficult to deal with them if they join forces."


    "It''s indeed not an easy target. However, I am bound by karma so I need to do it," said Qin Yun. "Besides, I''m confident."


    "Why are you bound by karma?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Something that happened in the Ancient Augury world," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Yi Xiao''s eyes turned slightly red when she heard that. Qin Yun had gone there to save her. To quickly amass the required treasures, Qin Yun had risked his life to fight for treasures in the Ancient Augury world.


    "Hawk Fiend King Che Jie and Old Tree Demon count as two targets. I still need another one," pondered Qin Yun.


    Who should he kill?


    "Choose a simple one. Fiendlord Baichan," said Yi Xiao.

 467 Baichan World

    Chapter 467: Baichan World


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Alright, I''ll heed my wife''s advice," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    After all, he was considered quite a formidable expert in the Effulgent dominion. Very few could threaten him and he clearly thought nothing of Fiendlord Baichan.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun spent the next half year honing the achievements of his Sword Dao realm breakthrough. He cultivated the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art and the other four sword manuals to a brand new level before setting off.


    "Among the three targets, Fiendlord Baichan should be the easiest to deal with. I''ll finish him off first." As he stood by the boundary of the Green Touring Palace, he could sense the general direction in which the Baichan world was.


    "Time to leave."


    With a thought, Qin Yun vanished from Green Touring Palace.


    Far off in a spot in the cosmos, a blurry light descended and became Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was alarmed as he looked at the massive burning star in front of him. Its flames leaped high up and he was just a bit too close. Some of the tongues of flame even reached right in front of him. "If I had been even the tiniest bit off, I might have teleported into this burning star."


    "I''m still rather far from the Baichan world." Qin Yun closed his eyes to better connect with the void and locate the world. "Green Touring Palace transcends the Three Realms. Furthermore, it is not in the Effulgent dominion. I wanted to directly teleport to the Baichan world but ended up veering off course too much. If I fly slowly, it will probably take me three years! If I used Void Transference, it would still take me a day."


    "Traveling in the Other Realm cosmos is indeed troublesome for an ordinary immortal." Qin Yun thought wistfully. "As for me¡­ I can return and try again!"


    The blurry light descended upon him once more.


    Qin Yun returned to Green Touring Palace.


    "Again, time to go!" With a thought from Qin Yun, he used the Green Touring Palace''s powers to be transported a second time.


    "Whoosh."


    He appeared in a nebula vortex.


    "Oh, I''m a lot closer this time. Again!" The blurry light descended upon him as he returned to Green Touring Palace again.


    This back-and-forth to Green Touring Palace continued numerous times¡­


    He deliberately chose the most remote spot in Green Touring Palace where clouds lingered.


    He repeated the teleportation a total of twelve times.


    "It''s rather close this time." Qin Yun stood in the darkness of the cosmos as he looked at the inconspicuous planet a distance away. "Time to head there!"


    Qin Yun''s body phased away as he engaged in repeated Void Transference. Every time he did this, he would traverse a distance of tens of thousands of kilometers.


    After breaking through to the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm, Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle Sword Dao gave him a formidable grasp of the void. He could now engage in Void Transference on his own.


    Typically, one needed a period of cultivation after breaking through to the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm to allow them to grasp Void Transference! As for Major Void Transference? That was rare.


    Moments later, Qin Yun came before a massive world''s stratosphere.


    "Back when I was a mortal, going from one world to another was easy. Now, being at the peak Essence Soul realm¡­ opening a world passageway that allows a peak Essence Soul to pass through still requires me to put in ten minutes of work even at full strength." thought Qin Yun. "If I had directly opened a world passageway into the Baichan world, the commotion it caused would definitely be noticed by Fiendlord Baichan. If he flees in fright, I''ll probably not be able to find him."


    "It''s best to enter secretly."


    Qin Yun tore through the layers of clouds as he constantly plunged downwards.


    Soon, he saw a vast piece of land.


    "Rumble!" Dark clouds began to gather in the sky.


    "This fiendcelestial world is trying to repress me." Qin Yun smiled. "Change."


    Qin Yun''s aura immediately changed as he feigned the aura of a cold and forbidding fiend, causing the dark clouds in the sky to dissipate.


    "I need to think of a way to find Fiendlord Baichan." Qin Yun took a step and vanished to the world below.


    ******


    On the vast lands, there was an unending line of prisoners proceeding when suddenly, one of the older prisoners slumped to the ground.


    "Old fool, cut the act and get up." A scarred face soldier in charge of the prisoners had a savage look on his face as he ran over, lashing out with a whip. The whip struck the old prisoner''s body, leaving behind bloody marks under his tattered clothes. The old man''s body convulsed as he pleaded weakly.


    "Don''t beat him. He''s almost dead." A young prisoner could not help but shout.


    The scarred face soldier looked up and grinned heinously. He went forward and lashed out angrily. "You are quite a busybody. Let me see how much more you can take."


    The whip lashed heavily as bloody streaks appeared across the young prisoner''s body, but he bore with it through gritted teeth.


    "Sir, please spare the kid. He will die if you continue." A gray-clothed woman by the side immediately said ingratiatingly with a smile. Her voice vaguely had a strange charm to it.


    When the scarred face soldier heard that, his eyes turned turbid as he nodded. "Forget it. Since I''m in a good mood, I''ll spare you."


    "Brother Pan, this old man is about to die." Another soldier touched the old man''s neck as he said hurriedly.


    "He''s an old guy anyway. Who can be blamed if he doesn''t survive the march? Throw him far away." The scarred face soldier frowned slightly before shouting the command.


    They were responsible for escorting the prisoners and were only allowed a limited number of deaths.


    It would be troublesome for them if too many died.


    "Alright." The soldier grabbed the old man, who was on his last breath, with a single hand before throwing him aside casually. The old man was flung more than a hundred feet away. Blood seeped out of his mouth as the last of his life faded.


    The young prisoner gritted his teeth as he watched this.


    The young prisoner asked the woman beside him in a whisper, "Sis, why didn''t you save him?"


    "Silly." Another youth beside him berated him softly. "Our Dharmic powers have been crippled. It''s only because Sis is adept at bewitching voice arts that you were spared. If she ended up being caught, she would be in trouble."


    "Sixth Brother, our Wan family is finished and we can hardly fend for ourselves so don''t bother trying to save others," said another slightly plump woman helplessly.


    "Alright, cut it out." said the eldest sister, who was the leader. She looked up at the vast world she was in.


    The youth beside her said, "Sis, we are about fifty kilometers away from Mt. White Fiend. We have to think of a way to escape. If not, there''s really no hope left."


    The rather delicate-looking woman in gray whispered instead, "It might have been fine if it was just these ordinary soldiers. Even without our Dharmic powers, we can still control them. But there are still cultivators in charge of escorting us. If I had not had my Dharmic powers crippled, I could have easily finished them. But now, even if we charge en masse, we would not be able to withstand a single strike of theirs."


    "Are we just going to submit to our fates?" The other younger siblings looked at their eldest sister.


    "The day our Wan family fell was the day we were doomed." She looked at the dark sky, overcome by pained feelings and a sense of helplessness.


    The entire family clan was walking towards destruction. Her younger siblings were still naive, but despite once being called the Heavenly Charm Saint, she had no solution at all. She had been escorted here by cultivators, and rumors had it that she was being sacrificed to Fiendlord Baichan.


    Legends said that Fiendlord Baichan was the hegemon of this world.


    ¡­


    Apart from the Wan family siblings, there were more and more prisoner groups being gathered from every direction as they approached Mt. White Fiend. These groups came from all over the world, and were all being brought to be sacrificed to Fiendlord Baichan.


    "Hurry! Faster!"


    The prisoners were led into Mt. White Fiend, where there was a group of fiendcelestials in charge of receiving them.


    The group the Wan family siblings were in arrived in similar fashion.


    "They''re doomed."


    Many people in the groups saw the fiendcelestials hovering over them and felt even more despair.


    "Who is that?" The eldest sister of the Wan family siblings was looking into the distance with an ashen look when a simply-dressed youth suddenly appeared not far from her out of thin air. He looked up at Mt. White Fiend and appeared rather puzzled.


    Suddenly, the simply-dressed youth turned to look at the gray-clothed woman. He asked with a smile, "Young lady, is this Mt. White Fiend?"


    "This is Mt. White Fiend." The gray-clothed woman nodded in a daze.


    "That''s good." The youth nodded and vanished into thin air.


    "Sis, who are you talking to?" asked her younger siblings curiously.


    "Didn''t you see someone there?" asked the gray-clothed woman.


    "Nope."


    "There was no one."


    The younger siblings were perplexed.


    The gray-clothed woman was alarmed as she secretly sighed. "What''s the point of thinking so much? This is Mt White Fiend, territory of Fiendlord Baichan. To be brought here as sacrifices means we are doomed."

 468 Fiendlord Baichan

    Chapter 468: Fiendlord Baichan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    About an hour before Qin Yun arrived at Mt. White Fiend.


    On a gigantic square on Mt. White Fiend.


    Prisoners were constantly being escorted into the square in dense droves. All of them appeared to be reeling in despair.


    "Now that we''ve come to Mt. White Fiend, what will Fiendlord Baichan do to us?"


    "Who knows. But rumors have it that no one has left the mountain alive after coming to Mt. White Fiend."


    A few prisoners were discussing softly.


    "Perhaps we will be used in the cultivation of a fiend art."


    "I heard there are some who cultivate their fiend arts through the use of grievances. They will torture us till we have an overwhelming amount of grievances."


    "Perhaps there will be a world passageway, and we will be thrown into other worlds to be made laborers."


    "Dream on."


    "Why can''t I dream at a time like this?"


    These prisoners were waiting uneasily for their fates.


    And at the highest spot in the square, a strange-looking, white-robed man was leaning on his throne in a slanted fashion, his drooping eyelids making him look like he was asleep. Beneath him, more than ten Skyfiends stood respectfully in a row.


    "Fiendlord, the food is more or less gathered," whispered a red-robed Skyfiend respectfully.


    "Alright."


    Only then did the white-robed man open his eyes. He swept his gaze across the square and indeed, the square was packed dense with prisoners.


    He straightened his body and suddenly opened his mouth slightly to take in a breath.


    "Phew¨C"


    Immediately, a violent wind swept up the prisoners on the square. As they flew up, they were drawn towards the white-robed man''s mouth. They shrank as they flew and entered his mouth. The Skyfiends and fiendcelestials who watched from the side were nervous.


    In a blink of an eye, the square was emptied.


    All the prisoners had been sucked clean.


    "Phew." The white-robed man''s face suffused a wicked smile. He extended his tongue and licked his lips before giving an order. "Send the next batch in."


    "Yes." The fiendcelestials immediately arranged to continue sending prisoners in.


    "Each area has been instructed to send their food tribute within three days," said the white-robed man. "No area has sent less than what is required, correct?"


    "That''s right. None of them have sent less than what is required. It is estimated that all the food will arrive by tomorrow," said the red-robed Skyfiend.


    "That''s good. Inform me again when the next batch of food arrives."


    After giving his instructions, he laid down once again with his eyes closed as though he had fallen asleep once more.


    The Skyfiends heaved a sigh of relief when they saw this.


    "This fiendlord of ours is mostly alright but the spirit-devouring art he cultivates in is just too terrifying. The entire world provides him food and that barely manages to satisfy him." Two Skyfiends were secretly conversing with a voice transmission.


    "Those that cultivate in spirit-devouring arts are considered the most heretic of the fiendish way. Rumor has it that once one''s cultivation reaches a certain unprecedented level, it would not take long for them to consume all life on a planet. Our fiendlord is quite patient. He only devours the harvest he reaps in the fiendcelestial world he rules."


    "We are the lucky ones. At the very least, we have cultivated to the realm of Skyfiend. Those mortals and the fiendcelestials that are still struggling can still be devoured."


    ¡­


    Large batches of prisoners were brought to the square as the number of prisoners on the square increased once more.


    Qin Yun also appeared among this batch of prisoners, taking care to look inconspicuous among them.


    "Fiendlord Baichan." Qin Yun instantly saw the sleeping Fiendlord Baichan on his throne high up in the sky. With his present realm, he could still see the heinous crimes one committed even without casting the Eye of Lightning.


    His body was covered in a rich layer of Sinful Sanguine Halo.


    The sheer richness of it left Qin Yun secretly alarmed.


    "What a heinous crime! Fiendlord Baichan is considered to have kept a low profile among all the powerful Skyfiends in the Effulgent dominion," thought Qin Yun. "He does not stir up much trouble and he seldom leaves the fiendcelestial world he rules. Yet, the Sinful Sanguine Halo he exudes is so dense."


    "So many humans and demons are captured and brought here. What does he plan to do with them?" Qin Yun was slightly puzzled.


    As he kept such a low profile, the intelligence on Fiendlord Baichan was pathetic. All that was known was that he had to be slightly weaker or he would not have only occupied one fiendcelestial world.


    What powerful fiend would not wreak havoc on as many worlds as possible?


    It was precisely because he was weak and unknown, a pushovers. This was why Yi Xiao had chosen him for her husband!


    Qin Yun continued waiting patiently.


    His art that concealed his aura went undetected by the Skyfiends. Even Fiendlord Baichan could not find any flaws unless he carefully stared at it.


    "Sis, what does Fiendlord Baichan plan to do to us by bringing us to Mt. White Fiend?" The group of prisoners that the Wan siblings were a part of arrived on the square. They were all feeling very uneasy.


    "Sis¡­"


    Her younger siblings were horrified and uneasy as they spoke to their eldest sister.


    The gray-clothed woman was calmly following the batch of prisoners when she suddenly saw a familiar figure into the distance. It was that simply-dressed youth.


    "It''s him?" The gray-clothed woman was somewhat puzzled.


    "Junior Sister!" She heard a voice to the side.


    She jolted and turned her head over to see a few youths in another group of prisoners.


    "Eldest Senior Brother, Second Senior Brother, Fifth Junior Brother. Why have you been sent here as well?" asked the woman anxiously.


    "Your Wan family is gone but it''s not like our sect could escape such a fate either."


    "We are bound together for good or for ill. No one can escape."


    The youths could only sigh.


    At that moment, right in front of the square, a red-robed Skyfiend said reverently, "Fiendlord, this batch of food is all here."


    After sleeping for an hour, Fiendlord Baichan opened his eyes with interest as he sat up straight. As he looked down on them, the prisoners on the square felt a baffling sense of horror. None of them dared to utter a sound as the square fell into a strange silence.


    "Whoosh." Fiendlord Baichan slowly opened his mouth as he sucked in. Immediately, a violent wind tore through the entire square, sweeping up countless prisoners as they flew towards his mouth.


    "Ah!"


    "He wants to eat us?"


    "No."


    The numerous prisoners reeled in horrified despair, but as the violent winds swirled, they gradually shrank as they flew over. There was no way for them to resist.


    "Hum!"


    A blast enveloped the entire square. Instantly, the violent winds dissipated as the prisoners fell to the ground.


    "What happened?" The Skyfiends and fiendcelestials were alarmed.


    "Oh?" Fiendlord Baichan narrowed his eyes as he looked at a spot where a simply-dressed youth stood among the prisoners.


    When he was devouring the prisoners, they were all swept up into the sky but this simply-dressed youth somehow stood there motionlessly.


    The youth took a step forward, traversing more than a thousand feet to appear in front of the prisoners.


    The many human and demon prisoners looked towards the youth.


    "It''s him?" The Wan family''s gray-clothed woman was astonished.


    "Hmph!"


    Fiendlord Baichan snorted coldly.


    Boom!


    Terrifying fiendcelestial phantoms appeared on Mt. White Fiend as they extended their gigantic palms to strike at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun stood firm in his spot as terrifying Sword Qi burst out of his body. As the Sword Qi whistled across space, they tore through the fiendcelestial phantoms while his aura naturally presented itself.


    "Essence Soul? A mere Essence Soul?" The Skyfiends were alarmed.


    "Essence Soul realm? Sword Qi?" Fiendlord Baichan looked at Qin Yun with a drastic change in expression. He immediately stood up and bowed, speaking with great humility, "So it''s Sword Immortal Qin from Green Touring Palace! Greetings Sword Immortal Qin."


    As he spoke he gave a huge, respectful bow.


    This scene left his subordinates in a daze. The prisoners were all left flabbergasted.


    Fiendlord Baichan was the hegemon of the Baichan world!


    Qin Yun stood there, his face like a layer of ice. His voice was ice-cold. "A spirit-devouring art? It''s no wonder you are riddled with heinous sins!"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m only eating some food in my Baichan world. I never go to other worlds to wreak havoc," said Fiendlord Baichan in a fawning manner immediately.


    "Do you think it''s nothing even as you wreak havoc on an entire world?" bellowed Qin Yun coldly. "It''s only because you are too weak that you do not act flagrantly. If you had invaded another world, you would probably have been killed by another immortal or Buddha before I came."


    "Too weak?"


    The Skyfiends, fiendcelestials, and prisoners to the side fell into a daze. The hegemon of their world had been deemed to be too weak?


    "I am weak. I naturally do not dare compare to a Green Touring Palace disciple. I have no intention to be your enemy. I''m willing to offer you treasures to spare me, alright?" Fiendlord Baichan ignored his dignity and began humbling himself to plead.


    "I came to the Baichan world to kill you," said Qin Yun.


    The moment his voice faded, Qin Yun''s body emitted boundless stellar light. Unlimited stellar forces transmitted down from the distant cosmos through the void, forming Swords of Stellar Light around him.


    The 360 Swords of Stellar Light circled the surroundings as the stellar light spread across the area. Qin Yun took on the appearance of a stellar god.


    "He is someone that even Fiendlord Baichan fears?" The Wan family''s gray-clothed woman watched in agitation.


    Fiendlord Baichan''s expression sank when he saw this. He had bloodlust in his eyes as he roared angrily, "Qin Yun, you are only at the Essence Soul realm. I treated you respectfully on account of your stature but you take it for granted! How dare you insolently come to my cave abode to slay me. Do you really think I''m not your match? So what if you are a Green Touring Palace disciple? Today, I''ll go down in history for killing a Green Touring Palace Disciple!"


    As he roared angrily, the entire Mt. White Fiend was roaring angrily as well.


    "Boom!"


    The entire Mt. White Fiend moved. Countless stones rolled down as the entire mountain stood up, transforming into a towering mountainous giant.


    The Skyfiends and fiendcelestials immediately flew away and hid in the distance. Some of them were faltering in amazement. "Fiendlord had such a trick up his sleeve?"


    Qin Yun released the stellar light to protect the weak mortals.


    "A second fiend body?" Qin Yun was astonished. "You do have some tricks up your sleeve."


    "This mountainous body is my actual one." The mountainous giant glared at Qin Yun as his voice rumbled. Fiendlord Baichan stood on the shoulder of the giant.


    "Qin Yun, prepare to die!" Fiendlord Baichan, as well as the giant, roared as they charged forward.

 469 Fiends Among Fiends

    Chapter 469: Fiends Among Fiends


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Fiendlord Baichan was very careful. He did not wish to offend this Green Touring Palace disciple since he was a Dao Ancestor disciple, which gave him status that was much higher than his own.


    Even if Qin Yun was weak now, he would probably far exceed him in the future.


    Therefore, he was willing to submit in order to avoid conflict.


    "I''ve already submitted to you but you aren''t giving me a way out. All I did was to consume some food, and its food I''ve taken from my own world. Must you be such a busybody?" Fiendlord Baichan was fuming with killing intent. "Since a Dao Ancestor disciple is offended, I might as well offend him thoroughly! I''ll kill you off and end the problem at its roots before it leads to endless troubles. Qin Yun¡­ you are mistaken, mistaken because you think too highly of yourself!"


    "The outside world thinks of me as weak but that''s because I cultivate in a spirit-devouring art that garners so much hatred. I''ve had to keep a low profile as a result."


    "My true strength is that of a sixth-firmament Skyfiend! Furthermore, I cultivate in a fiend mountainous body! In the future, perhaps you might be stronger than me! But now? You are absolutely no match for me!"


    Fiendlord Baichan was filled with confidence.


    "Boom!"


    The mountainous giant waved a gigantic rock palm that held dark clouds. It came striking down with terrifying might.


    Fiendlord Baichan''s other body also transformed into a stream of light that charged at Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Just as Fiendlord Baichan was feeling extremely confident, his expression changed suddenly.


    This was because Qin Yun stood motionless in midair. All he did was beckon his hand slightly.


    The 360 Swords of Stellar Light floating around him suddenly expanded, causing the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm to abruptly expand, enveloping hundreds of kilometers around them. Instantly, Fiendlord Baichan and the mountain giant felt the surroundings change drastically. All he could see was the infinite starlight around him as well as the Swords of Stellar Light.


    Great divine power¡ªHeavenly Cycle Stellar Realm!


    "Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art, Wrongs of the Wanton Sword," Qin Yun looked at the mighty Fiendlord Baichan and the mountain giant as he whispered these words softly.


    Wrongs of the Wanton Sword.


    Wrong, wrong, wrong!


    Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu¡­


    The 360 Swords of Stellar Light flew out simultaneously, transforming into individual sword beams as they unleashed a relentlessness assault on the mountain giant and Fiendlord Baichan.


    "How¡­ How is this possible?" Fiendlord Baichan was horrified. More than a hundred sword flashes pelted his body as he resisted with all his might. The weapon he wielded was sent flying as his body was easily penetrated. Soon, his body was reduced to ash.


    "No! No! No¡­" As for his actual body, the mountain giant, it was flailing its palms at full strength to defend.


    However, the 360 sword flashes had formed a Heavenly Cycle as they attacked the mountainous giant from every direction.


    Despite having a strong and robust body, countless bits of rubble were sent flying from the assault.


    "You are rather sturdy," mumbled Qin Yun.


    "Spare me!"


    The mountainous giant yelled. His voice was deep and forceful, capable of generating visible waves.


    The mountainous giant''s eyes were filled with a pleading look. As he looked at Qin Yun, his body began crumbling all over. He directly knelt amid the infinite stellar flashes and kowtowed. "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me. I overestimated myself. Spare me! Spare me, please!"


    The hearts of the Skyfiends, fiendcelestials, and the countless prisoners that were watching were palpitating at the sight of the kneeling giant and his pleas.


    "I was wondering why you captured so many living beings and brought them here. Ordinary Skyfiends would not dare to engage in wanton massacres. I never expected that you had a spirit-devouring art. It is the most heretic and forbidden art of the fiendish way. Since you have learned it, you deserve to die," said Qin Yun coldly.


    The fiendish way¡­


    It was heretic to begin with.


    Therefore, the fiendish way was ostracized by various schools of thought.


    And the spirit-devouring art was the most heretic art in the fiendish way. It was deemed the fiend among fiends!


    Although Skyfiends did not suffer the tribulations, they remained afraid of karma. Therefore, they typically did not slaughter mortals en masse. But there were two schools of thought in the fiendish way that had practitioners engage in massacres.


    One was the spirit-devouring lineage. Legend had it that it stemmed from a Ancestral Fiend. He enjoyed eating and could easily devour all the living spirits in a world. If he did not reign in his appetite, he would finish one world after another. It would no doubt be a catastrophe for the Three Realms. Many mighty figures would be helpless against him. The Buddhist Ancestor had once personally taken action but still failed to save his disciples from the Ancestral Fiend.


    The other was the sea of blood lineage. Experts of other fiendish lineages would commit heinous sins as a part of their cultivation but that was only an ancillary aspect of the lineage. Only the sea of blood lineage directly followed a path of committing heinous sins. Those that cultivated it strove to commit greater sins and used the sins as resources for cultivation! If their sins resulted into a boundless sea of blood, their Dharmic powers would also turn boundless, making them a terrifying fiend that left the Three Realms trembling.


    The two lineages were considered the fiends among fiends.


    The experts of the two lineages were born out of the cries of countless weaklings.


    "Die." Qin Yun showed no mercy. When he saw the kneeling giant plead in front of him, he could only think of how many lives had been devoured to aid Fiendlord Baichan''s growth.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi! Chi! Chi! Chi!" 360 sword flashes attacked the giant, making it quickly crumble.


    "No! No¡ª"


    The mountainous giant struggled frantically as he faced death.


    With one final rumbling bang, his mountainous fiend body was finally reduced to smithereens. Under the infinite stellar forces, the rubble turned to powder before vanishing and scattering across the world.


    "He''s dead."


    The Skyfiends, fiendcelestials, and countless prisoners saw it. All of them were left in a daze.


    They had truly been shocked when Fiendlord Baichan unleashed his true strength.


    But eventually¡ª


    The mysterious Sword Immortal Qin seemed to vanquish him fully without spending much effort.


    "And all of you." Qin Yun swept his gaze at the Skyfiends and fiendcelestials.


    "No, spare me! Spare me!"


    These Skyfiends and fiendcelestials were enveloped in the countless stars. They knelt down with no thought of resistance.


    There was no way for escape while being placed in front of Sword Immortal Qin''s strength.


    "Whoosh."


    The Swords of Stellar Light swept over.


    Immediately, more than ninety percent of the Skyfiends and fiendcelestials perished. All of them were reduced to smithereens, leaving only five fiendcelestials left to drag out their ignoble existence.


    "We are still alive?" The five fiendcelestials were somewhat taken aback.


    "As fiendcelestials, it is quite rare for you to have such low levels of sin." Qin Yun swept his gaze across the five fiendcelestials. He could see the sins of these fiendcelestials at a glance, and found them to have extremely minute amounts of sin.


    Following that, Qin Yun stored away all the treasures left behind by Fiendlord Baichan and the dead Skyfiends. He then looked at the prisoners that had been protected by the infinite stellar forces before flicking his sleeve.


    Phew!


    The countless prisoners were delivered to a vast land tens of kilometers away by the starlight.


    "This world is ruled by fiendcelestials." Qin Yun looked at the boundless land. "Many living beings are only able to cultivate in the fiendish way from the moment they are born. They have no other choice and the amount of help I can deliver is limited."


    Whoosh! Qin Yun vanished.


    And far on the desolate plains, the Wan family siblings were present with a big group of prisoners.


    "Sis, we survived! We survived!" there was a very excited cry.


    "What happened was just too formidable. That Sword Immortal Qin is just too impressive."


    "Fiendlord Baichan was already terrifying enough. The mountainous giant''s massive body was impressive as well. The Skyfiends were trembling in fear of him. But in front of Sword Immortal Qin, they can still be easily killed." echoed the people one after another.


    The Wan family''s gray-clothed woman gazed far into the distance where Qin Yun had originally stood.


    "Green Touring Palace disciple? Where is the Green Touring Palace?" The gray dressed woman shook her head in silence. "I thought I was strong enough in the past. Now, Fiendlord Baichan, the hegemon of this world, was kneeling and sharing what he could with Sword Immortal Qin in front of him."


    "I have survived but my Dharmic powers are crippled. There are ways to cultivate from scratch again. I wonder if there will come a day when I can see Sword Immortal Qin again, where I could stand at the same height as him and see the same clouds." The gray-clothed woman''s eyes had a burning flicker.


    ¡­


    Although Fiendlord Baichan had unleashed all his strength, he was still unqualified to make Qin Yun use his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    He might have only gained a rudimentary grasp of his great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, but it could match a sixth firmament Skyimmortal''s strength. Furthermore, by casting the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art with the Heavenly Cycle Swords of Stellar Light, the might grew ever stronger. If he encountered Wuli Jiushou from the Skywolf world again, he could completely repress him with one strike. As for Fiendlord Baichan? He was weaker than Wuli Jiushou and so was naturally wiped out.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun spent half a day traversing the Baichan world, wiping out the fiends that had committed heinous sins before his mood was uplifted.


    "This first target, Fiendlord Baichan, is gone. Next it''s Hawk Fiend King and the old tree demon." Qin Yun stood in the starry cosmos beyond the Baichan planet as he looked down upon the planet. Following that, he activated his disciple mark.


    A blurry light descended upon Qin Yun before he vanished.


    Qin Yun came and left quickly. However, he managed to usher in a new era for the Baichan world, an era where the Dao could compete with the fiends.

 470 Hawk Fiend Kings Banque

    Chapter 470: Hawk Fiend King''s Banquet


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Whoosh."


    With Green Touring Palace''s aid, Qin Yun arrived in the mesosphere of the Hawk Fiend world moments later.


    He looked down upon it.


    "I can obtain what Master has to offer by getting rid of these two." Qin Yun was filled with anticipation. Although he had obtained some spoils of war from the Baichan world, it was far from comparable to what the Dao Ancestor had to offer.


    He swooped down directly.


    As he tore through the layers of clouds, he finally saw a vast land.


    The world''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were even richer as Qin Yun overlooked his surroundings. He was somewhat puzzled, "Apart from avian creatures and beasts, there isn''t a single human or demon?"


    "It''s said that Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon live in this Hawk Fiend world but where exactly?" Qin Yun kept flying, feeling puzzled as he searched.


    The world was primeval in nature with forests that stretched out endlessly.


    After flying for five hundred kilometers, Qin Yun saw at a glance several demonic auras lingering on a mountain a distance away.


    "There are quite a number of demons there. Oh, three thousand ordinary lesser demons. There are also two Essence Soul realm demons." Qin Yun''s initial look revealed that there were only two Essence Soul realm demons among the numerous demons. One was a tiger demon and the other a wolf demon.


    ¡­


    In a hall in the towering mountain''s belly.


    "Here, let us brothers drink." A tiger demon carried a huge alcohol jar as he gulped large mouthfuls of it.


    "What great wine." The wolf demon was drinking happily as he shouted, "Three-eyed Monkey, quick. Send us more wine."


    "Yes, Leaders," a three-eyed monkey demon said obsequiously as he obediently went to get more.


    "Our eldest brother is truly one of a kind. Hawk Fiend King invited everyone to his banquet but Brother did not bring us along to broaden our horizons." The tiger demon complained unhappily. "Many great demon monarchs of other worlds are attending the banquet Hawk Fiend King is hosting. Even if we are not qualified to drink the wine they serve, just watching the grand splendor of it all from the outside would have been nice."


    "He thinks of us as being too weak. It would only shame Brother if we attend." The wolf demon drank the alcohol clumsily so that it stained his fur. He said, "Brother has already said that Hawk Fiend King invited many of his friends to the banquet. Many of them are fifth or sixth firmament Skydemons, great demon monarchs of their worlds. They are in no way inferior to Hawk Fiend King in terms of fame and strength. Even Brother can only sit on the periphery. Usually he would bring us but this time it''s different."


    "I really wish to at least see it." The tiger demon''s eyes suffused redness. "Brother, why don''t we head there in secret and watch from afar?"


    "We could try that." The wolf demon was somewhat moved. "But Brother commanded us to stay guard here."


    "About that¡­" The tiger demon hesitated.


    "Forget it. We will be in trouble if Brother pins the blame on us," mumbled the wolf demon.


    "Pins the blame on us?" The tiger demon felt his heart shudder involuntarily.


    The two intoxicated demons chatted while drinking in the hall in the mountain''s belly.


    Suddenly, a simply-dressed human youth appeared in the hall and looked at the two great demons.


    "Oh?" The tiger demon widened his eyes at the human that had suddenly appeared in the hall. He could not help but glare. "A human?"


    "What? A human?" The wolf demon was alarmed to see Qin Yun as well. "Haven''t humans been exterminated in the Hawk Fiend world? I have lived for so many years and have only seen humans at Hawk Fiend King''s residence. Even those were only a special few he spared so that they could serve him."


    Gradually, the tiger and fox demons'' expressions turned solemn. They were no longer as inebriated.


    A human had appeared inside their hall?


    "Gentlemen." Qin Yun looked at the two demons and smiled. "Might I ask you a question? If you do not wish to die, just answer me honestly."


    "Human, where do you come from?" the tiger demon did not reply so much as roar angrily.


    "Quick, tell us!" yelled the wolf demon as well.


    "It seems you want to do this the hard way," Qin Yun said coldly with his brows slightly furrowed.


    Buzz.


    He released his Dao domain, binding the wolf and tiger demons directly! The two demons were lifted up. They felt their bodies restrained and their struggles were futile.


    The domain''s forces even squeezed them, causing their bones and muscles to hurt. Their faces flushed red as they struggled in pain and weakly kicked their legs.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun dispelled his Dao domain, causing the tiger and wolf demons to fall to the ground. They looked at each other and saw the horror in one another''s eyes.


    "Senior."


    "Senior," the two demons fawned.


    Qin Yun said coldly, "Use your Dharmic powers to draw me a map of where Hawk Fiend King''s cave abode is. Draw them at the same time. If I discover that you are lying, hmph¡­ Both of you know that I can kill you as easy as I squash a bug."


    "Yes, yes, yes. Senior, you are omnipotent. How would we dare lie? We will draw it now. Right now," said the wolf demon immediately.


    "Senior, it''s really simple to find Hawk Fiend King''s cave abode," said the tiger demon as he began drawing.


    Both of them used their Dharmic powers and drew maps in midair.


    Although their drawings had some differences, they were in essence equivalent.


    Qin Yun gained a general idea after seeing their drawings.


    "We have drawn it. Senior, you said you would spare our lives and I believe you would not go back on your words," said the wolf demon obsequiously.


    "Senior, with your strength, why would you lie to two lesser demons like us?" said the tiger demon in a toady manner.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill the both of you. But to prevent the both of you from snitching, follow me." With a wave of his hand, Qin Yun''s Dao domain carried the two demons.


    Sou!


    He rapidly flew out of the towering mountain.


    There were 3000 mortal lesser demons around the mountain but none of them were capable of sensing Qin Yun.


    As they traveled, Qin Yun noticed something.


    Although he was unfamiliar with the world, Qin Yun first did Void Transference once as he led the two demons. After a few seconds of flying, he saw a lofty mountain in the distance.


    "That is Hawk Fiend King''s cave abode, also the tallest mountain in the Hawk Fiend world," said the tiger demon immediately.


    "Very good." Qin Yun nodded. "Both of you can go free."


    With that said, the two demons flew out and plummeted a distance before coming to a stop in midair.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun took a step forward and arrived right inside the mountain.


    "How formidable. Hawk Fiend King is hosting a banquet filled with strong guests. As a human, he''s entering directly?" the tiger demon could not help but mumble. "Furthermore, he does not know where Hawk Fiend King''s cave abode is. He''s clearly not Hawk Fiend King''s friend."


    "Something major is about to happen." The wolf demon widened his eyes.


    "Should we inform Brother?" The tiger demon was in a dilemma.


    "We can''t," shouted the wolf demon immediately. "If we tell him, it will become known that we led that human here. The implications that arise with Hawk Fiend King will doom us. Besides, the human has already entered. It''s too late for us to inform Brother."


    "Yes." The tiger demon nodded.


    ******


    Hawk Fiend King was a demon king that knew how to indulge in luxury. He had even reared a bunch of humans to serve him. Humans, even as mortals, were nimble. They were able to create intricate decorations for him.


    His cave abode was very opulent.


    The grand hall was extremely luxurious!


    "Try this third dish." Hawk Fiend King had a hawk''s head and a human''s body. His eyes had a bloodlust to them as he clapped his hands with a smile.


    Immediately, beautiful fox demonesses served the dishes. Sitting at the main table were a total of seven demon monarchs that included Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon. They were given a huge serving while the Skydemons that sat elsewhere only had a small serving each.


    When the lid was opened, it revealed a meat that glistened with red oil.


    "Oh." The seven demon monarchs either grabbed the bones with their hands and chewed on it, or they stabbed the meat with a knife before eating.


    "Brother Hawk Fiend, what meat is this? Why is it so fragrant?" A demon monarch widened his eyes. "I have never tasted meat so delicious before."


    Hawk Fiend King immediately smiled with delight when he heard that.


    "This is the meat of a Skydragon I slew," said Hawk Fiend King with a smile. "This comes from the most tender parts in the belly. I got the best cook among my humans to make it."


    "You killed a Skydragon?"


    "The dragons will definitely seek revenge."


    Everyone spoke their mind.


    "What''s there to be afraid of?" Hawk Fiend King felt contempt.


    "Hawk Fiend," said a pig demon with a fat head and big ears. "It''s not that I''m reprimanding you or anything. Wreaking havoc on those humans can be ignored since we have been fighting humans for such a long period of time. But for dragons¡­ they have deep ties with us demons. In many worlds, dragons even protect the weaker lesser demons. You should not have killed a Skydragon."


    With that said, he threw the knife in his hand down. "I''m not eating this Skydragon''s meat."


    "Bam!"


    Hawk Fiend King slammed the table in front of him and said angrily, "Pig Demon, what''s the meaning of this? I was the one who killed the Skydragon, not you. What''s there to be afraid of? Are you deliberately trying to smack me in the face by refusing my gift?"


    "Alright, alright. It''s just some trifling matter. The strength of the dragons in the Effulgent dominion is nothing we need to bother over," said Old Tree Demon with a chuckle.


    At this moment¡ª


    "Whoosh."


    A figure in the form of a stream of light surged straight into the hall and landed in the middle. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    The surrounding demon kings were in demihuman form. They were typically stout and large in size, as tall as several hundred feet tall. The more ordinary ones were tens of feet tall. As a human, Qin Yun appeared rather tiny in this hall filled with great demon kings.


    "There are so many demons," said Qin Yun with a smile as he swept his gaze around the hall. "What a bustle."

 471 Slaying Demons

    Chapter 471: Slaying Demons


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun''s appearance in the hall made two peak third Firmament Essence Soul demons, who were responsible for security, change their expressions.


    After all, the trespassing of a human meant they neglected their duty.


    Today was the day Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon had invited many great demons.


    "How dare an Essence Soul realm Daoist barge into the hall."


    "Capture him immediately!"


    The two demons charged forward simultaneously in a bid to take him down.


    "Whoosh!" A furry arm stretched out suddenly, instantly sweeping past the two demon guards, sending them flying out the main door directly!


    "Are you Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin?" The furry arm rapidly shrank and retracted. It belonged to an ape demon who was chuckling while delivering a deep bow. "I''m Yuan Wei, a junior of the Seven Saints lineage. Greetings, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Seven Saints?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred. "You are Senior Brother Yuan Hong''s¡­"


    "He is the king of my family," chuckled the ape demon.


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    Back during the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts, Yuan Hong and six other great demons resided in the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Plum! They were known as Mt. Plum''s Seven Saints.


    The other six could be ignored, but as the head of the Seven Saints, Yuan Hong held a high standing in Green Touring Palace. He was a true Golden Immortal mighty figure, and was one of the extremely famous Mixed Worlds Four Apes of the Three Realms.


    The ape demon in front of him¡­ was likely one of the many lesser demons under Yuan Hong.


    "Greetings, Uncle-Master Qin. I''m the second disciple of Mountain Lord Cloudstep," another elephant demon said politely.


    "Ah, a disciple of Senior Brother Wudong." Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    However, he was inwardly sighing. "The influence Green Touring Palace has on demons is rather great. Among these seven great demons¡­ two of them are related to Green Touring Palace."


    Yuan Hong had already been described, but as for Mountain Lord Cloudstep, he was a famous nine firmament Skyimmortal elephant demon from the Effulgent dominion! He was also a Green Touring Palace disciple with the name Wudong Qi.


    Green Touring Palace had tens of thousands of disciples. Hundreds of them came from the Effulgent dominion! Furthermore, nearly half of them were demons!


    There were indeed quite a number of great demons in the Effulgent dominion. Many of them were the descendants of Green Touring Palace disciples.


    "Hahah¡­ So it''s Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin." Hawk Fiend King Che Jie stood up and laughed out loud. "I organized this banquet for my good friends, but never expected Sword Immortal Qin to come all the way here to my humble abode. This is truly my pleasure. Come, prepare a seat for him. Let Sword Immortal Qin sit in one of the seats of honor."


    Green Touring Palace was the Dao residence of Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    A Green Touring Palace disciple¡­


    Such a title would be astounding no matter where. Even the heavenly army of the Heavenly Courts and the Bodhisattvas and Buddhas of Buddhism would turn apprehensive in the face of Green Touring Palace disciples. One had to account for a higher authority in everything. Or to put it in a more unpleasant way, one had to consider who the master was when beating a dog! Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s personal disciples¡­ were very revered by these great demons.


    And among the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones, only Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure treated the demons well!


    "I won''t be taking a seat," said Qin Yun.


    "Uh¡­" Hawk Fiend King''s face twitched, as he couldn''t help but be embarrassed.


    He had quite a temper, so he was already repressing the fumes of his anger. If he was not afraid of Qin Yun''s identity as Green Touring Palace disciple, he would already have lost all decorum.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you won''t sit when invited. So then, why did you come here?" A snake demon asked with a scoff. He hated humans to his core. The rise of humans resulted in the decline of demons. The battle between the two species had once left blood flowing throughout the Three Realms. The Ancient Heavenly Courts no longer existed, and at present, humans were the ruler of the Three Realms. The demons could only drag out a meager existence and were constantly being forced to live in squeezed living spaces.


    "Yin Qiong," berated the ape demon. "Do not be disrespectful towards Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Coward," the snake demon snorted coldly but did not speak any further.


    "Might I ask why you are here, Sword Immortal Qin?" Hawk Fiend King forced a smile and asked, "As long as I can help, I''ll definitely do my best."


    "I''m only here to do one thing." Qin Yun swept his gaze over the great demons present.


    "Oh?"


    The ape, elephant, snake, and pig demons, Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon, and all the other Skydemons, listened carefully.


    "Might I know what is it?" inquired Hawk Fiend King.


    "To kill you, Hawk Fiend King, and that old tree demon," said Qin Yun. At the same time, the vertical eye opened at his glabella¡ªthe divine power, Eye of Lightning.


    The entire hall fell silent.


    The other five great demons exchanged looks as Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon''s jaws dropped.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, stop joking. This isn''t something you should joke about." No one spoke a word until Old Tree Demon made that comment. He had said so with a forced smile.


    "Yes, this isn''t something you should joke about," echoed Hawk Fiend King obsequiously. "I have no intention of being your enemy, Sword Immortal Qin."


    Qin Yun cast his Eye of Lightning and swept the area.


    Among the seven great demons in front of him¡­


    "The one with the most heinous sins are indeed the two of you." Qin Yun''s gaze fell on Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon. "Hawk Fiend King, you are a demon but you are known by everyone as a Fiend King. Even your homeworld is named Hawk Fiend world. You are not a fiendcelestial but you are more bloodthirsty than many fiendcelestials¡­ I''m not surprised by the heavy sins you have, but it''s Old Tree Demon that surprises me. I have often heard of the numerous evil deeds that Hawk Fiend King has committed but I have never heard anything about you. Where does all that sin you have on you come from? Furthermore, you are embroiled in a constant grievance aura, one worse than Hawk Fiend King."


    "It has to do with the Dharmic formulation I cultivate in," said Old Tree Demon with a chuckle. He was rather genial. "Sword Immortal Qin, How exactly have I offended you to make you want to kill me? From my point of view, there must be some misunderstanding between us."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, this is our first meeting," said Hawk Fiend King.


    "Do you remember a Skyimmortal by the name of Fang Rong?" asked Qin Yun.


    Hawk Fiend King was puzzled as he shook his head. "No, never heard of him."


    Qin Yun sighed lightly, "Sad¡­"


    Fang Rong had gone to great lengths for years to exact his revenge.


    Yet, Hawk Fiend King forgot him utterly.


    "Are you prepared to die?" Qin Yun said as infinite starlight emitted from his body. Boundless stellar forces descended from the distant cosmos as the 360 Swords of Stellar Light began to condense. The scene was beautiful and magnificent, as though Qin Yun was a stellar god.


    "Use all the moves you have or you will not have any chance." Qin Yun looked at Old Tree Demon and Hawk Fiend King.


    In return, they exchanged looks.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, we have so many great demons here. Do you plan to kill them in front of us?" The snake demon was somewhat annoyed. "Aren''t you thinking too little of us?"


    "Do you have what it takes to stop me?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    The snake demon was somewhat taken aback, feeling somewhat furious.


    "Let''s go!" said Old Tree Demon via a voice transmission.


    "Flee!"


    Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon took action in unison.


    Hawk Fiend King grew a pair of golden wings on his back and, with a quake of his golden wings, he instantly transformed into a stream of light that crashed out the hall''s roof and rapidly escaped into the distance.


    On the other hand, Old Tree Demon instantly tunneled into the ground. He transformed into numerous roots that escaped in every direction.


    "Will you be able to flee?"


    "Shadow Penetration of the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art," said Qin Yun softly.


    He was still hoping that the two would give him a pleasant surprise.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Hawk Fiend King, who was fleeing in the sky, was the first to be caught. The stellar forces bound him, drastically reducing his speed.


    "No good." Upon seeing more than a hundred Swords of Stellar Light pursue him in the form of after images, he could not help but panic.


    Following that, the shadows tore through Hawk Fiend King''s body. His body was incomparable to Fiendlord Baichan''s mountainous body. In an instant, his body was pulverized by the hundred plus Swords of Stellar Light.


    Hawk Fiend King perished with that.


    The outcome that the dead Skyimmortal, Fang Rong, had always yearned for had finally happened. Qin Yun had satisfied the karma he was bound to by killing Hawk Fiend King.


    And this scene left the five great demons to the side with palpitating hearts. The snake demon that had been peeved had turned pale.


    "Don''t say anything. Mind your own business. Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon have engaged in too much slaughter. Retribution has come for them." The pig demon sent a voice transmission.


    "This Sword Immortal Qin created a brand new sword immortal lineage, becoming someone famous throughout the Three Realms. How can he allow himself to be so easily crossed? The reason why he is at the Essence Soul realm is because he has only created a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. It does not mean that his Sword Dao realm is stuck at the Essence Soul realm. He can slay the likes of Hawk Fiend King in one strike," said the elephant demon via voice transmission.

 472 Might of the Intrinsic Flying Sword!

    Chapter 472: Might of the Intrinsic Flying Sword!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Hawk Fiend King is most adept at escaping but he failed. Was the Dharma spell that Sword Immortal Qin cast a kind of domain-type Dharma spell?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin is ultimately an Essence Soul sword immortal. He has weak Dharmic powers, so it''s impossible to cast such a powerful Dharma spell. I believe it''s a powerful divine power. I know that there are Essence Soul Earth Immortals and Buddhist Arhats that specialize in the cultivation of divine powers in the Three Realms."


    "Do you know what divine power that is?"


    "I''ve never seen it before."


    "I''ve never heard of it before."


    The five great demons were discussing via voice transmission, but none of them had any intention of intervening in the battle.


    These great demons that had lived for eons were all very crafty and careful.


    To take action now? Wouldn''t that be courting death?


    ¡­


    Deep underground.


    Roots were escaping in different directions and more than two hundred Swords of Stellar Light were pursuing them.


    "He''s fast."


    However, Old Tree Demon, who was extremely confident when it came to escaping underground, discovered that the his roots were moving at a drastically reduced speed thanks to the hindrance of the stellar forces. Furthermore, the Swords of Stellar Light were rapidly catching up to him.


    "What? Hawk Fiend King died just like that? An ally I have been nurturing for so many years has perished just like that?" Old Tree Demon shuddered a little.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The Swords of Stellar Light caught up to him.


    They attacked each and every root. There were a total of twenty-seven roots escaping in different directions but under the Swords of Stellar Light''s attacks, one by one, they were pulverized.


    Soon, there was only one root left.


    Eight Swords of Stellar Light attacked it.


    This root suffused a dark red luster. The Swords of Stellar Light were only capable of leaving scuffs on the root before it quickly healed to normal. The dark red root suddenly raised its speed drastically as it burrowed deeper underground.


    "This root is his true body. The rest are just fakes." Qin Yun was constantly sensing his surroundings.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    Many Swords of Stellar Light chased up to the old tree demon''s true root.


    As the root was hindered by the stellar forces, the Swords of Stellar Light that were closest began to catch up. More than fifty Swords of Stellar Light surrounded the root and attacked it. However, the dark red root was robust and slippery. Even though it was damaged, it could rapidly recover.


    Soon, he escaped to the periphery of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm under peak performance reached its limit at a hundred and fifty kilometers.


    "Bam!"


    The dark red root slammed heavily into the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane. This repeated a few times until the membrane produced a large number of cracks.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm was indeed a world of its own and had membrane walls around it. Qin Yun had only gained a basic grasp of this divine power, so although the Swords of Stellar Light could perform sword arts, the world membrane was only formed by the divine power. It was much weaker.


    "Bam!"


    The membrane cracked completely upon a second strike. The dark red root charged out.


    "I''ve finally escaped the divine power''s domain." Old Tree Demon was delighted. Without the hindrance of the stellar forces, his escaping speed rose drastically.


    "Time to leave." Old Tree Demon immediately produced a Dao talisman. He planned on using it to escape through Void Transference.


    "Hum¨C"


    However, a three-hundred-kilometer Dao domain easily repressed the void around Old Tree Demon. It was impossible for him to engage in Void Transference.


    "Relying on a divine power is insufficient against him." Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain shot out from his fingertip.


    It shot through the void!


    The Misty Rain Sword vanished in midair and, when it appeared again, it was already deep underground.


    "What''s that?" Old Tree Demon panicked.


    A glaring golden-white sword flash instantly carved out a hundred thousand feet underground. It also directly sliced through the extremely robust root.


    The dark red root was split into two and squirmed and expanded rapidly. It turned into a towering blackish-red tree.


    The towering tree had tore out of the ground. Countless roots entrenched themselves in the depths of the land. The tree trunk was extremely thick but there was a gnarly wound that emanated from the countless roots up to the main trunk. The wound stretched across the trunk and on the tree''s crown, a gigantic face appeared. It pleaded loudly, "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me! Please spare me! I admit defeat! We can negotiate on anything!"


    "One strike is actually insufficient to kill you?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    His use of his Intrinsic Flying Sword brought a might that was far greater than the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s Swords of Stellar Light which he only had a rudimentary understanding of.


    "I''ll try again. Let''s see how many strikes you can withstand," said Qin Yun.


    "Whoosh."


    The glaring golden-white sword flashes were more glaring than the sun in the sky.


    The sword flashes streaked across a hundred thousand feet with golden-white light, slicing across the towering tree! After the tree was sliced, it rapidly healed. But several tree branches and leaves withered immediately.


    "Whoosh."


    A second golden-white sword flash.


    The two sword flashes were dazzling. With an indignant roar, the towering tree wilted completely and was destroyed.


    Old Tree Demon had perished as well.


    "This is his true strength?" The five great demons in Hawk Fiend King''s nest saw everything clearly. The two golden-white sword flashes contained an infinite sharpness. It left them reeling in fear, for they knew it would be absolutely impossible for them to withstand even one strike.


    "This Old Tree Demon sure is resistant. He managed to withstand three strikes of mine." Qin Yun beckoned.


    The treasures left behind after Old Tree Demon''s death rapidly flew over.


    "This is the tree core he left behind after his death." Qin Yun held the dark green tree core. "His strength is clearly higher than Hawk Fiend King''s. I wonder where his grievous sins come from. In addition, what did he do to earn that terrifying grievance aura?"


    Qin Yun did not bother thinking on it any further.


    Qin Yun swept up all the treasures Old Tree Demon and Hawk Fiend King left behind. He saw the shuddering and fawning smiles of the five great demons, including the two great demons that had been nasty to him previously. They were trying to curry favor with him.


    When met with absolute strength¡­ a person who could kill them in one strike, all they could do was give fawning smiles when being powerless to resist.


    "Together with Fiendlord Baichan, the three targets have been eliminated. It''s time to return." Qin Yun immediately used his disciple mark and sensed the distant Green Touring Palace.


    Buzz!


    A blurry light descended upon Qin Yun before he vanished.


    He had left this spot, left the entire Effulgent dominion. He headed for the legendary place in the Three Realms, Green Touring Palace.


    "He''s gone." The pig demon heaved a sigh of relief. "He scared me shitless."


    "An Essence Soul sword immortal can actually be so terrifying." The snake demon felt a lingering fear.


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun came to a hall, and on its door were the words¡ªFiend Vanquishment.


    Upon entering Fiend Vanquishment Hall, he was met with an empty space. Only a mirror hung inside.


    The surface of the mirror distorted into that of an elder.


    "Senior." Qin Yun bowed respectfully. "I have just completed the first round of tests."


    "Oh? Qin Yun, I''ve heard of you," said the elder in the mirror with a chuckle. "Among the disciples Master recently took in, there is talk of one who forged a new sword immortal lineage. I have always been wanting to meet you. But it''s only today that you came to meet me after completing the first round of tests. You came a little later than I expected."


    "I apologize. I was not completely confident in my strength prior to this," said Qin Yun.


    "Which fiends did you kill?" asked the elder in the mirror.


    "I''ve just killed three. They are Fiendlord Baichan of the Effulgent dominion, as well as Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon of the Hawk Fiend world," said Qin Yun.


    "Let me verify that." The elder vanished after saying those words. Furthermore, battle scenes surfaced on the mirror.


    They were scenes of Qin Yun killing Fiendlord Baichan, Hawk Fiend King, and Old Tree Demon.


    If one wanted to lie?


    It was impossible to lie to the Dao Ancestor.


    Following that, the surface of the mirror transformed back to the elder''s image.


    "Qin Yun, these are the treasures Master prepared for you. Take this." With that said, the void warped and a yellow-skinned calabash flew out.


    Qin Yun extended his hand to grab it in anticipation.

 473 Soul Formation Pill

    Chapter 473: Soul Formation Pill


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The yellow-skinned calabash was a storage Numinous treasure. When Qin Yun grabbed it, his Dharmic powers permeated it, easily refining the ownerless calabash for his own. He also became immediately aware of the massive number of items contained within the calabash.


    They piled into a tiny mountain.


    There were many rare materials and Immortal Pills that were famous in the Three Realms, as well as some life-preservation items like Dao talismans.


    "These precious materials are difficult to acquire even if I want to purchase them. They are very suited for the nurturing of my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun was delighted. "These Immortal Pills¡­ are these Soul Formation Pills?"


    While checking the Immortal Pills and Dao talismans, Qin Yun lost his composure when he saw Soul Formation Pills.


    In terms of worth and rarity, the Immortal Pills were more precious than the Soul Formation Pills! However, the Soul Formation Pills left Qin Yun more excited.


    "A Soul Formation Pill can allow an ordinary mortal to directly become an Essence Soul Earth Immortal." Qin Yun''s heart was filled with much trepidation. "However, it will form the most ordinary Essence Soul and provide weak Dharmic powers! Cultivators who have real goals would typically not consume Soul Formation Pills. Consuming them is equivalent to destroying one''s future. But for ordinary mortals, these pills allow them to step into the existence of an Earth Immortal in one step and have eternal life."


    "Although there will still be the tribulations, as long as one is well-behaved, doesn''t kill, and does plenty of good deeds, the tribulations can be ignored since there is a lack of sin."


    "By being a prosperous Essence Soul Earth Immortal who does good¡­ one can live for a long time."


    "Legend has it that there is an even more precious Nine Revolutions Immortal Pill. Consuming one of those pills is enough to make one a Skyimmortal instantaneously! That would truly result in one sharing the same age as the heavens. However, they are even rarer. Only the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor can refine those," thought Qin Yun.


    With such a pill, one could directly soar and gain eternal life.


    Yet it was harmful to one''s cultivation.


    Many cultivators still desired these since they had family they were concerned about. They wished for their family to grow with them. That was a wish of many accomplished immortals.


    As the saying goes: When a man achieves the Dao, his poultry and dogs rise to Heaven. Trying to make a group of people have eternal life was very difficult. One could only rely on pills and external forces.


    Only after Qin Yun became a Green Touring Palace disciple and passed the first round of tests could he obtain the Soul Formation Pills.


    Clearly, the weaker Green Touring Palace disciples had failed to pass the first round of tests. They could forget about such Immortal Pills.


    "There are a total of three Soul Formation Pills." Qin Yun took a look and thought, "One for Father, one for Mother. And one for¡­"


    "There are other Immortal Pills that aid my cultivation, as well as life-preservation Dao talismans. Yes, this Dao talisman can be given to Xiaoxiao. Also, there are some for my daughter and son."


    Qin Yun was feeling happy.


    There were some treasures that were too few in number. Only the top experts of the Three Realms would have them after any splits.


    Ordinary immortals and bodhisattvas found them rare, but Qin Yun had received several this time.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun returned to his homeworld, the Great Chang world, that day.


    Inside Qin Manor.


    "My mother does not need it. She''s a dragon after all. She has a long life to begin with," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Besides, you previously gave my mother several Skydragon Blood Crystals. She has consumed three of them and has reached the Connate Golden Core Paramount realm. If she consumes all of them, her bloodline might become sufficient to transform her to the True Dragon realm."


    "That''s good. Then, I shall leave this third pill for my brother." Qin Yun nodded. "Back then, Brother, Sister, and I lived with our parents in the village. Brother had always taken good care of Sister and I¡­ Unfortunately, she is no longer around."


    Qin Yun was once plagued by nightmares of that day.


    Due to the pressure from the demons, the villagers had given his sister to the demons as tribute to the great demon, Water God.


    "Father, Mother, Big Brother, Second Brother, save me! Save me¡­" The cries of his younger sister once sounded repeatedly in Qin Yun''s dreams.


    It was from that day forth that Qin Yun began practicing his sword arts diligently. He had never slacked off once. In his youth, he had traveled the world in a bid to strengthen himself.


    If he included the dream of a hundred years¡­


    He had cultivated for more than a hundred years. He had also become a rather famous cultivator in the Effulgent dominion. Even several mighty figures in the Three Realms had heard his name.


    "I have never forgotten about avenging my sister," said Qin Yun. "Water God is long dead by my hands, but the reason why he wanted young children was, in fact, due to his master, Nine Mountain Island Lord. Unfortunately, when I was seeking our daughter in the Skywolf world¡­ Senior Brother Zhang single-handedly eradicated the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons. They were destroyed one after another, but Nine Mountain vanished in the chaos. According to my guesses, it is very likely that he has gone to a fiendcelestial world. After all, when the Eight Lineage Fiendish Demons were under attack, many of them would panic and implore the fiendcelestial world backing them. They would all open world passageways. Although a hasty opening would mean that only their Essence Souls could travel, there were still many mortal fiendish demons that fled. Nine Mountain might have been one of them. I was in no hurry to investigate the matter back then, but it''s about time now."


    There was frenzied rage in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    "You plan on pursuing him? To kill Nine Mountain Island Lord in one of the fiendcelestial worlds?" Yi Xiao could not help but say. "Skyfiends that can rule over a world typically have some background. They have masters, sects, and even family clans¡­ They are not the type one should offend. For instance, when there is conflict between Daoism, Buddhism, dragons, or other factions, they would show mercy because you are a Green Touring Palace disciple. But for the fiendish way? Knowing that you are a Green Touring Palace disciple would only increase their desire to kill you."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Xiaoxiao, don''t worry. I obviously understand the cruelty involved in the conflict between Dao and Fiends. Therefore, after I became a disciple of the Dao Ancestor, and learned of Nine Mountain''s disappearance, I have always been holding back¡­ Now that I''ve passed the first test, I have some rare life-preserving items in hand. Furthermore, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will soon be nurtured to the level of a superior-grade Numinous treasure. I wouldn''t be afraid even if a ninth firmament Skyfiend were to appear."


    "You have to be careful." Yi Xiao knew that there was no way to stop him.


    Qin Yun was bent on pursuing Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    Qin Yun would not rest no matter where he fled to!


    ¡­


    That day at noon, a cool autumn breeze blew.


    "Mother, Father, Brother. Have a seat," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I just received some good tea. Have a taste." With that said, he personally poured them tea while Yi Xiao sat by the side.


    "How rare it is for you to invite us to tea." Qin An was now a little plump. He looked to be in his forties or fifties, with some wrinkles on his face. Even though Qin Yun had many marrow cleansing treasures, one would still slowly age with time. Typically, one would live not more than a hundred plus years if one did not reach the Connate realm.


    "Who knows, Brother''s tea might belong to some immortal or bodhisattva." Qin An sat down with a chuckle.


    Qin Liehu and Changlan sat down with a smile as well.


    "Try it," said Qin Yun after he poured the tea.


    "Alright. Let me taste my son''s good tea." Qin Liehu held up the tea cup with his single hand. He took a sniff at the tea''s fragrance and felt his mind buzz. He could not help but want to take a sip of it. After doing so, he felt his body felt spirited. "Great tea."


    Changlan and Qin An could not help but drink as well.


    Just as they began to drink the tea slowly.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The tea in the cups directly flew into Qin Liehu, Changlan, and Qin An''s mouths and into their bodies.


    "Why did the tea enter my body by itself?" Qin An was alarmed.


    "This¡­" Qin Liehu and Changlan were astonished as well.


    Following that, their skin gradually suffused redness. The lifeblood in their bodies was in turmoil as they could not help but sit cross-legged. Their souls were beginning to be stirred by the Soul Formation Pills.


    The Soul Formation Pill would absorb a soul and, by using a portion of the person''s lifeblood and the pill''s herbal essence¡­ finally condense an Essence Soul.


    Qin Liehu, Changlan, and Qin An had sat cross-legged for more than two hours without knowing it before they opened their eyes. The sun had set and the western sky had an alluring evening tint.


    "How do you feel?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at the trio.


    "What happened? Why is there a tiny person in my body?" Qin An was puzzled.


    "Yun''er, is this the legendary Essence Soul?" Qin Liehu could not help but ask.


    "Essence Soul?" Qin An immediately said, "Father, we are only mortals. We aren''t even at the Connate realm, so how can it be an Essence Soul?"


    "This is an Essence Soul. You can use Essence Soul Dharmic powers now. Give it a try," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Essence Soul Dharmic powers?"


    The three were somewhat amazed as they began attempting.


    "Whoosh." Qin An gradually floated up, his body wobbling.


    "Woah, I''m flying! I''m flying!" Qin An was extremely excited as he flew higher and higher.


    "Is this flying?" Qin Liehu and Changlan quickly flew up as well. In the past, Qin Yun had brought them in flight, but now, they were relying on their own Dharmic powers to fly. Furthermore, the Dharmic powers gave them a miraculous feeling that excited them greatly.


    Qin Yun could not help but smile when he saw this scene.


    If one was powerful, but had no one to share it with, what was the point of being powerful?


    "Brother Yun, even though Father and Mother have condensed an Essence Soul, they do not have a Dao domain. They are probably the weakest Essence Soul Earth Immortals. They are not even the match of some powerful Connate Golden Cores," said Yi Xiao.


    "Don''t worry. They ultimately have Essence Soul Dharmic powers. I''ll prepare some suitable Dharma treasures for them, giving them the strength of at least an ordinary first firmament Essence Soul," said Qin Yun. "Due to the tribulations, they cannot kill mortals, but at the very least, they can teach mortal Connate Golden Cores a lesson if they end up being attacked by one."


    Yi Xiao smiled with a nod.

 474 Great Demon Bear Mountain

    Chapter 474: Great Demon Bear Mountain


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the Effulgent Great World, there was a massive mountain range that extended for tens of thousands of kilometers named Bear Mountain. Countless demons resided in this mountain, and a great demon king from the Ancient Heavenly Courts era also called it home.


    On a flat piece of land, a large-built bear demon was sitting cross-legged on a boulder. In front of him were basins more than ten feet wide. In them was large amounts of meat. He grabbed the fleshy bones and chomped down on them. While doing so, he watched as bear juniors sparred among themselves on the flat piece of land.


    "Your Majesty." A white bear demon rushed over.


    His king was the famous Demon King Bear Mountain of the Effulgent dominion.


    He entered the Green Touring Palace in ancient times, and had once been a subordinate of the sixth prince of the Ancient Heavenly Courts.


    "Oh?" Demon King Bear Mountain shot a glance at the white bear demon as the white bear demon quickly went forward to whisper, "Your Majesty, I just received news that the tree demon and hawk demon from the Hawk Fiend world are dead. They were killed by a Green Touring Palace disciple, Sword Immortal Qin."


    Demon King Bear Mountain''s eyes flashed with a ferociousness. "Oh, why would this junior brother of mine kill them?"


    "Your Majesty, apparently on that day, the hawk demon had invited many good friends to a banquet," said the white bear demon. "There were five other great demons present when Sword Immortal Qin suddenly appeared. It appears that he had come specifically to kill the hawk demon and tree demon. He first used a kind of divine power or Dharma spell to kill the hawk demon before using his flying sword to kill the tree demon in three strikes."


    "Your Majesty¡­ This Sword Immortal Qin is also from the Effulgent dominion. He''s a disciple of the Green Touring Palace after all. How can he so casually kill the greater powers of us demons?" the white bear demon could not help but ask.


    "Do a more thorough investigation. I want to know why he did it," instructed Demon King Bear Mountain.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I''ll continue investigating," the white bear demon obediently answered before taking his leave.


    Demon King Bear Mountain looked at the sparring bear juniors on the flat land, but his mind was not on them.


    "Qin Yun?" Demon King Bear Mountain frowned. "In the Effulgent dominion, there are more than a hundred Green Touring Palace demon disciples. He so casually killed a great demon? He didn''t even inform us. Isn''t he thinking too little of us demons?"


    He was feeling somewhat irritated.


    The collapse of the Ancient Heavenly Courts and the rise of humans made the daily lives of demons become increasingly difficult.


    Demon King Bear Mountain had watched all of this happen helplessly. He had experienced the golden days of the demons. Back then, he was a loyal subordinate to the sixth prince of the demons. He often recalled those days, but now? Humans occupied most of the living spaces; furthermore, they were constantly reproducing, while the demons were deteriorating to smaller and smaller numbers.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance Qin Manor. Nighttime.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged with several crystals piled in front of him. His flying sword was floating in midair as it constantly extracted the essence from the crystals beneath.


    "I estimate that my Intrinsic Flying Sword will break through to the superior-grade Numinous treasure level within a month." Qin Yun looked forward to it. "Although I wouldn''t dare claim that it can match the might of a Connate Numinous treasure in my hand, it should definitely have twenty to thirty percent of a Connate Numinous treasure''s strength."


    Sword immortals at the peak of the Skyimmortal realm had astounding combat strength. With their Intrinsic Flying Swords, they were able to battle even mighty figures.


    If they were a Golden Immortal sword immortal, they would be even more impressive! The two Golden Immortal sword immortals of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage had forged names for themselves, creating the reputation of destroying all Dharma with a single sword.


    "Once my Intrinsic Flying Sword breaks through, I''ll seek out Nine Mountain Island Lord," thought Qin Yun.


    He had the patience.


    He had already waited for so many years. He could wait an additional one or two months.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun sensed something and immediately stopped the nurturing of his Intrinsic Flying Sword. With a wave of his hand, the Misty Rain Sword flew into his body.


    "Whoosh!" Qin Yun waved his hand as the void beside him produced ripples, opening up to a spot in a distant space. On a throne carved out from rock sat a gigantic black bear demon with a rather terrifying aura. He grinned and said, "Junior Brother Qin."


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain," said Qin Yun when he saw this. "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, is there a reason why you are suddenly looking for me?"


    "I wonder if you have the time to come to Green Touring Palace for a chat. Why don''t we meet at your place?" said Demon King Bear Mountain.


    "Let''s meet in an hour, in my tiny yard in Green Touring Palace," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Demon King Bear Mountain nodded.


    Following that, the void ripples closed as they severed their communication.


    Qin Yun frowned slightly. "Demon King Bear Mountain? There are many demons among the Green Touring Palace disciples, making for more than a hundred demon disciples in the Effulgent dominion. However, humans are more naturally perceptive than demons. The Daoists, Buddhists, and even the Heavenly Courts have a human majority. The demons are weaker to begin with, but many of the great demons that lived during the Ancient Heavenly Courts era are very disgruntled at the present state of affairs. Demon King Bear Mountain is one of them. He has always been a protector of sorts for the many demons in the Effulgent dominion."


    Now that there was less space to live in, the birth of demon experts also declined.


    Most of the powerful demon experts that were famous in the Three Realms were mostly great demons from ancient times.


    Ever since Goddess N¨¹wa created mankind, causing the birth and rise of humans,the general trend became that of the demons'' decline!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued nurturing his flying sword. After he was done, he activated his disciple mark and headed for Green Touring Palace.


    Green Touring Palace, Qin Yun''s residence.


    The moment Qin Yun appeared outside his yard, he heard a distant voice. "Junior Brother Qin."


    He traced the voice and looked over to see Demon King Bear Mountain walking over.


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain," greeted Qin Yun.


    As Bear Mountain looked at Qin Yun, he felt somewhat wistful. "The talent of humans far exceeds us demons indeed. It''s already difficult for us demons to gain sentience. Our cultivation speeds are also slower than humans. What a demon gains in a century of cultivation probably takes humans a mere decade. How long has this junior brother of mine cultivated? He is already able to create a brand new sword immortal lineage. His strength is probably at the seventh or eighth firmament Skyimmortal realm."


    "Over all these years, I''ve seen the birth of powerful immortals and buddhas. 99% of them are humans, and there are fewer and fewer demons. We are only being propped up by a bunch of old guys," thought Bear Mountain wistfully.


    "Creak."


    Qin Yun pushed open the courtyard''s door and said with a smile, "Senior Brother, please come in."


    The two entered the yard and, after sitting down, Bear Mountain waved his hand. An alcohol flask and alcohol cups appeared on the stone table. He personally poured the alcohol. "Come, have a taste of this Centaurea Immortal Brew. This immortal brew was obtained from the Heavenly Courts."


    "Oh? A immortal brew of the Heavenly Courts?" Qin Yun looked at the clear as amber alcohol and took a tiny sip. Instantly, he felt a warmth spread through his body, feeling as though a hundred flowers had bloomed around him. "Great alcohol."


    "Hahaha, I don''t even use such good alcohol back at my mountain. If I let the lesser demons under me drink this, it would only be wasting such an immortal brew," said Bear Mountain with a smile.


    Qin Yun tilted his head to down the alcohol and took the initiative to pour himself more. He asked with a smile, "Senior Brother, is there a reason you''ve contacted me today?"


    "Did you previously head to the Hawk Fiend world to kill that hawk demon and tree demon?" inquired Bear Mountain.


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "Yes. Didn''t Master leave three rounds of tests? To pass the first round of tests, I needed to kill three Skyfiends or three beings with heinous sins. Therefore, I chose the hawk demon and tree demon."


    "I see. The hawk demon and tree demon were indeed riddled with heinous sins. I did try to reason with them before, but unfortunately to no avail," said Bear Mountain with a sigh. "Them dying under your hand can only be considered karmic retribution."


    "It''s indeed karmic retribution," said Qin Yun. "To be honest, there are a bunch of Skyfiends in the vast Three Realms. I could have killed three Skyfiends for the first round of tests, but the reason why I chose those two specifically had to do with karma I owed. It had to be them."


    "Ah, so it''s because of owed karma." Bear Mountain laughed. "I thought perhaps you had some hatred for us demons."


    "No, I have no such hatred for demons. There are many demons who I respect greatly," said Qin Yun.


    Bear Mountain nodded and smiled. "Understood, Junior Brother Qin. But now that I think about it, you are also a Green Touring Palace disciple. You managed to create a brand new sword immortal lineage. You are rather famous in the Three Realms, so you need to consider your status. Isn''t killing a bunch of junior demons being a bit too much of a bully?"


    "A bully?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    Bear Mountain nodded. "You are my junior brother. We are on the same level of hierarchy. Wasn''t killing them a form of bullying? In the future, if fifth or sixth firmament great demons offend you, just tell me. I will help you resolve the matter. I will definitely do it to your satisfaction, so how about it? As for those lesser demons, go ahead and kill them if they dare cross you. But as for great demons¡­ please show a little mercy on my account. After all, we demons do have fewer and fewer juniors these days."


    "I can try to show mercy on account of you. However, I do have an overly feisty temper. If someone with heinous sins crosses me, I''ll still kill them regardless if they are human or demon. These beings with heinous sins will only wreak havoc on other humans and demons if they are allowed to live," said Qin Yun.


    Bear Mountain frowned slightly before he smiled. "It''s good that you can show mercy."


    After a short conversation, Bear Mountain bade Qin Yun farewell.


    When he came out of Qin Yun''s yard, Bear Mountain''s eyes turned a little cold as he thought to himself, "An overly feisty temper? Hmph!"

 475 Nine Mountain Island Lord

    Chapter 475: Nine Mountain Island Lord


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun watched Senior Brother Bear Mountain leave as his expression turned austere.


    He was a sword immortal, one that had carved out a new sword immortal lineage! He naturally had a keenness to him. How could he change the way he acted because of a few words from a senior brother? Furthermore, he had tens of thousands of senior brothers and sisters in Green Touring Palace.


    "I have tens of thousands of fellow disciples. I can''t please everyone." Qin Yun''s heart stirred as a blurry beam of light descended upon him. He vanished as he returned to the Great Chang world.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, half a month had passed. On one late night, a crescent hung high in the sky.


    Through the darkness, a sword hum could be heard.


    Out of curiosity, Yi Xiao got out of bed and left her room. She soon came to the back garden''s mirror lakeside. She saw a man standing on the surface of the lake far away. A misty sword flash was circling the area as the world around him seemed to begin distorting. The moonlight illuminated the region, making it appear like a warped dreamscape.


    "Boom!" Gradually, the fluctuations from the sword flashes grew stronger. The distorted space''s interior even generated a void storm.


    "Has Brother Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword broken through?" Yi Xiao could only sense the terrifying might of the void storms. These days, Qin Yun would nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword every night before going to bed.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Qin Yun''s laughter came from afar. It was filled with joy.


    The area above the mirror lake gradually returned to normal. Qin Yun turned to look at his wife and stepped on the water''s surface. In a few steps, he arrived by the bank. He said with a smile, "Xiaoxiao, you are awake?"


    "How could I not be with this noisy commotion you''ve caused?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun, her eyes filled with happiness. "Did your flying sword break through?"


    "With Master bestowing me with so many treasures, my Intrinsic Flying Sword has finally broken through." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    Yi Xiao asked out of curiosity, "It''s said that sword immortals at the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm are extremely powerful, so powerful that they can fight Golden Immortals and Buddhas. Brother Yun, now that your Intrinsic Flying Sword has broken through, how do you feel?"


    Qin Yun nodded and marveled, "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has indeed become a lot more powerful. To kill that old tree demon, I''d probably only need one strike now. However, my Dharmic powers are still my biggest weakness."


    "There''s no hurry. Brother Yun, your accumulations are getting deeper. I believe you will definitely be able to create a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "As the founder of this Dharmic formulation, you are best suited for it. If you were to reach the ninth firmament of the Skyimmortal realm, your Dharmic powers would probably be purer than the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s nine firmament Skyimmortals."


    "It indeed suits me the best since it''s self-created. As for my Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage¡­ all I have to date are some ideas." Qin Yun shook his head. "I don''t even have an embryonic form of the Dharmic formulation."


    "Not even an embryonic form?" Yi Xiao was alarmed. "Brother Yun, your Sword Dao is at the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm. Might it be possible that you''ll form a Golden Immortal Dao fruit before you can create a sword immortal Dharmic formulation at the Skyimmortal level?"


    "Maybe."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "Let''s put an end to this discussion for now. Now that my Intrinsic Flying Sword has broken through, it''s time to find Nine Mountain Island Lord."


    "Where will you begin?" asked Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand as an eight-armed fiend figurine appeared in his hand. It looked rather gruesome.


    "This is?" Yi Xiao looked at it in astonishment.


    "After Senior Brother Zhang stormed Cloudfiend Mountain, he also captured two Essence Soul fiendcelestials alive. To survive, they revealed the fiendcelestial world that backs Cloudfiend Mountain. However, they are unsure of the exact name! However, this eight-armed fiendcelestial figurine that can contact that Other Realm Fiendcelestial¡­ would also allow us to contact that same fiendcelestial world," explained Qin Yun. "Nine Mountain Island Lord is very likely to be in that fiendcelestial world."


    Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up.


    "Xiaoxiao, stand back," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao retreated to a great distance away.


    Qin Yun''s figure flashed as he transformed into the form of a middle-aged Daoist. He rapidly feigned his aura to that of the Connate True Core realm. He then held the fiendcelestial figurine and powered it with a wisp of Dharmic powers.


    "Hum." With the fiendcelestial figurine activated, a distant world was finally sensed. There was an Other Realm Fiendcelestial there.


    "My servant, tell me what do you want?" A voice reached Qin Yun through the fiendcelestial figurine. "Do you want to know how to break through to the Connate Golden Core? Or be immortal?"


    Qin Yun sensed the distant world.


    "I''ve found you." Qin Yun revealed a look of glee.


    "Break through to the Connate Golden Core? Become immortal?" Qin Yun flipped his hand and put away the fiendcelestial figurine. He scoffed, "These Other Realm Fiendcelestials truly boast without shame. Back when I first contacted an Other Realm Fiendcelestial, he had used the Essence Soul Dharmic formulation of the sword immortal lineage to fool me."


    Yi Xiao walked over and smiled. "These Other Realm Fiendcelestials rely on trickery. However, they have fooled many mortals. Have you found the fiendcelestial world?"


    "I''ve confirmed the location in space, as well as the aura of that fiendcelestial world," said Qin Yun. "I''ll be able to find it in a day."


    "Nine Mountain Island Lord sure can hide." There was a cold glint in Qin Yun''s eyes. "He has managed to keep escaping even to the point of fleeing to a whole other fiendcelestial world."


    "He won''t escape this time," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded gently. "Yes, it''s time to put an end to this."


    ¡­


    The next morning, Qin Yun went to Green Touring Palace.


    Despite knowing the general direction in space, he had to make repeated attempts via Green Touring Palace to reach the fiendcelestial world as it was too far.


    He made more than a hundred repeated attempts via Green Touring Palace.


    "No, it''s not this fiendcelestial world." Qin Yun stood beyond the stratosphere of a fiendcelestial world. He sensed the auras within it and cross-checked it with his own karma. "At my present level, I''ll be able to spot the karmic connection between Nine Mountain Island Lord and myself if we''re in the same world."


    "Not this one either."


    "Nope."


    "Nope."


    One fiendcelestial world after another was eliminated.


    After all, it was still a rough estimate obtained from the position sensing from the distant Great Chang world.


    Finally, he came to the eighth fiendcelestial world.


    It was a massive planet that was covered in a gray fog. Qin Yun floated in the surrounding cosmos. Every step he took traversed tens of thousands of kilometers. Soon, he arrived close to the massive planet.


    "It''s this world. Yufan world." As he sensed the aura, he identified that the fiendcelestial world''s aura was identical to the eight-armed fiendcelestial figurine. Qin Yun''s eyes could not help but light up.


    "Karma."


    A vertical eye opened at Qin Yun''s glabella. Through the Eye of Lightning, he could see karma even more clearly.


    He quickly found the karmic line that bound him to Nine Mountain Island Lord. It was a blood-red karmic line. It connected to the fiendcelestial world''s interior far away. Clearly, Nine Mountain Island Lord was residing in this fiendcelestial world.


    When he saw the karmic line, Qin Yun''s blood boiled over in agitation. His eyes turned red. "Good, very good! You are really here!"


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun instantly swooped down and tore through layers of clouds, descending upon the fiendcelestial world.


    ¡­


    The Yufan world had a lofty mountain. This mountain had many palace buildings in it, as it was the Empyrean Palace of the Yufan world.


    The ruler of this fiendcelestial world resided there.


    And in a side palace hall, Nine Mountain Island Lord was sitting and eating. There were fiendish demons serving him to his side.


    "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, you are truly impressive. We fled from Cloudfiend Mountain to this fiendcelestial world, but only you became the Empyrean Lord''s disciple. We were able to escape a calamity because of you," a demoness fawned to his side.


    "Yes, if not for Senior Brother, we would probably all be enslaved and forced to do laborious work. It would truly be the beginning of dark days for all eternity." Another demoness leaned to his other side.


    A blue ox demon sitting below said, "Empyrean Lord''s Sanguine Shadow Fiendbody''s Dharmic formulation has long been spread. As long as one masters it, they can become a disciple of Empyrean Lord. Countless cultivators in the fiendcelestial world have attempted it. All of us that fled from Cloudfiend Mountain have also cultivated it, but the only one to gain a basic mastery in it is my Master."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord felt rather pleased at being fawned upon and served.


    The batch of fiendish demons that fled here were all mortals. They had little standing and led tragic days. It was only because he had gained a basic mastery of the Sanguine Shadow Fiendbody that he enjoyed an uplifting of stature. He became a disciple of the Empyrean Lord. As such, the fiendish demons that fled from Cloudfiend Mountain immediately submitted to Nine Mountain Island Lord and gained his protection.


    "Who dares barge into the Empyrean Palace?"


    Suddenly, there were infuriated roars from a distance away.


    It made Nine Mountain Island Lord frown slightly.


    Boom!


    A boom came from a distance as a slight quake ran through the world.


    This caused Nine Mountain Island Lord and the Cloudfiend Mountain fiendish demons to have a change in expression.


    "There''s fighting?" Nine Mountain Island Lord was astonished. "The person who dares take action in the Empyrean Palace is indeed daring. Is there conflict among Empyrean Lord''s subordinates or is it an external enemy?"


    "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, we should be fine, right?" a demoness inquired. The other fiendish demons also looked at him. They were all his subordinates, and knew little about the Empyrean Palace.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord said indifferently, "Don''t worry. I''m sure it''s trivial."

 476 Great Chang Worlds Sword Immortal Qin

    Chapter 476: Great Chang World''s Sword Immortal Qin


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun stood in midair, looking at the extended palace complex situated on the mountain. This was where the core power was held in this world.


    As the surrounding void had been sealed, Qin Yun could not enter through Void Transference.


    "Who dares trespass in the Empyrean Palace?" The guards of the Empyrean Palace were sharp. The fiendcelestials looked at Qin Yun and shouted angrily, especially when they detected that Qin Yun''s aura was only that of an Essence Soul realm. This gave the fiendcelestial guards greater confidence.


    "Nine Mountain Island Lord." Qin Yun ignored the fiendcelestial guards. He didn''t even bother to think of the Empyrean Lord of the world he was in. Instead, he had ''seen'' Nine Mountain Island Lord, who was in a side palace hall in the Empyrean Palace.


    Upon seeing his enemy, Qin Yun''s heart turned increasingly cold.


    "Boom!"


    He transformed into a beam of light and flew over.


    "What insolence!"


    "Courting death!"


    The fiendcelestial guards immediately attacked using the Empyrean Palace''s array formations. Simultaneously, they brandished their large axes, sending ax beams streaking across the sky towards Qin Yun.


    "Hmph." The flying Qin Yun flicked his sleeve as an invisible blast swept across the ax beams. They were immediately repelled, leaving the fiendcelestial guards alarmed. They raised a panicked defense, but with a large boom, more than half of them died. Qin Yun had spared the small number that had weaker sinful auras.


    The blast spread out, causing damage to the surroundings buildings.


    "Halt!"


    Accompanied by angry roars, Skyfiends appeared one after another. All of them were staring at Qin Yun with killing intent.


    "How dare a mere Essence Soul barge into the Empyrean Palace?"


    "Speak, how did you come to our Yufan world?" Although these Skyfiends sensed that Qin Yun''s flick of his sleeve carried a mystical might, they showed no fear. After all, they were Skyfiends and were collectively using the Empyrean Lord''s array formation to fight him.


    Meanwhile, on the other side of the Empyrean Palace.


    Empyrean Lord Yufan controlled every corner of the palace complex. He had discovered Qin Yun the instant Qin Yun appeared.


    "It''s Qin Yun?" Yufan was also a sixth firmament Skyfiend. He had long been given information on all the famous experts in the Effulgent dominion. He knew about Sword Immortal Qin, who had become a disciple of the Dao Ancestor and created an Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation.


    "His looks and his Essence Soul realm aura, together with his impressive strength make me certain that it''s him." Yufan instantly flipped his hand, producing a dark-red token.


    Buzz.


    He immediately contacted a distant space as the void was stirred and produced ripples. Clearly, another distant being had appeared.


    "Yufan, what''s the matter?" A Skyfiend, who sat cross-legged beside a huge embedded ax, asked.


    "Master, the Great Chang world''s Sword Immortal Qin has come to my world. He doesn''t appear to have come in peace." Yufan was somewhat flustered as he said immediately, "Master, what should I do?"


    "I won''t be able to rush to you in time," said the Skyfiend as he shook his head. "It''s too troublesome to travel across the cosmos."


    "Is it possible to request that Fiend Supremacy come save me?" Yufan was gripped in anxiety. "With Fiend Supremacy''s strength, he would probably arrive in a blink of an eye."


    "What sort of status does Fiend Supremacy have? Why would he so easily take action?" The Skyfiend said angrily. "If Fiend Supremacy were to take action, perhaps the other old bastards of the Effulgent dominion would directly attack."


    Yufan was anxious and helpless.


    Fiend Supremacy¡­


    He was the supreme leader of countless fiendcelestials in the Effulgent dominion. He was extremely powerful. There were some terrifying Buddhist and Daoist existences who constantly kept watch on this Fiend Supremacy.


    "He killed Baichan and the demon''s Hawk Fiend King and Old Tree Demon easily. It''s best you escape. Whether you survive or not will depend on your luck." The Skyfiend terminated the conversation after he finished that sentence.


    "This¡­" Yufan gritted his teeth. "In the eyes of Fiend Supremacy, I''m just an ant, something not worth saving. It''s not worth it to fight the Green Touring Palace for my sake."


    "Empyrean Lord! Save me!"


    "Empyrean Lord!"


    As the booms outside continued incessantly, there were the sharp pleas for help.


    Clearly, the confident group of Skyfiends had been easily swept aside by Qin Yun and were left crying wretchedly.


    "Time to leave."


    Empyrean Lord Yufan powered his Dharmic powers, and instantly, his body turned blood-red in color. His forehead suffused blood-colored mystic runes.


    Sou!


    Transforming into a sanguine shadow, he immediately charged out of the Empyrean Palace.


    Qin Yun first casually crushed the group of fiendcelestial guards and destroyed the ones with the most heinous sins in passing. He then easily released Sword Qi to take down the Skyfiends. He easily blew apart the layers of array formation obstruction, causing many buildings to suffer from the remnant blasts. Several buildings cracked and collapsed directly. The Empyrean Palace was in chaos everywhere. And there was a sanguine shadow rapidly fleeing into the distance.


    "Empyrean Lord?" The remnant Skyfiends watched in astonishment at their fleeing Empyrean Lord.


    Their biggest backer did not say a single word or even attempt to defend the palace before escaping?


    "Since I''m here, how can I allow you to escape?" Qin Yun swept his gaze as his body emitted starlight. The boundless stellar forces descended from the distant cosmos, condensing 360 Swords of Stellar Light.


    Great divine power¡ªHeavenly Cycle Stellar Realm!


    He commanded with a thought.


    In an area hundred and fifty kilometers around him, everything transformed into a Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    Yufan, who had just reached a distance of some tens of kilometers, felt the stellar forces bind him. He felt like he was flying with a few mountains on him, his speed drastically reduced.


    And the large group of Swords of Stellar Light instantly transformed into after images as they came for him. Yufan did not even attempt to block. There were too many Swords of Stellar Light and they moved too mystically. The sword shadows rapidly penetrated Yufan''s body, causing his sanguine shadow to turn even more incorporeal.


    "I''m dead if this continues." Yufan knew it for a truth.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, stop. Please stop." Yufan''s voice resounded in the sky.


    ¡­


    "Something serious has happened." Nine Mountain Island Lord, who was not concerned with the situation, saw that many towers of the Empyrean Palace were crumbling. He could hear the terrified screams of the Skyfiends high in the sky: "Empyrean Lord, save me!"


    Many servants inside the Empyrean Palace were also flustered and unsure what to do.


    "Senior Brother Nine Mountain, the entire Empyrean Palace is collapsing. This is not good." The remnant fiendish demons from Cloudfiend Mountain were even more anxious.


    "It''s bad indeed."


    Nine Mountain Island Lord''s compound walls had also collapsed. He walked out the hole and looked into the distance.


    Meanwhile, far away.


    His master, Empyrean Lord Yufan, was looking like a blood-colored shadow. It was even somewhat translucent. He had stopped in midair, reverently pleading, "Sword Immortal Qin, I have no grudge with your Great Chang world. Although I have coveted your Great Chang world before, I have never really taken any action against it. I once backed Cloudfiend Mountain, a fiend sect with a short history. But Cloudfiend Mountain has already been destroyed by your senior brother, Daoist Divine Firmament. If we want to square the accounts, I was the one who suffered a loss. I really have no intention of being your enemy, Sword Immortal Qin!"


    As a Skyfiend, he would naturally bow his head when needed to survive.


    Even becoming a temporary slave was not an unacceptable outcome.


    "Great Chang world, Sword Immortal Qin?" Nine Mountain Island Lord stared with widened eyes at another figure in midair.


    A blue-robed youth was standing in midair. He had familiar looks and a familiar bearing. Furthermore, the blue-robed youth was ignoring Yufan, and instead, staring right back at Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord felt his legs turn limp when that glare hit him.


    Back when Cloudfiend Mountain was destroyed¡­ Qin Yun was already famous in the Great Chang world. Everyone knew that the destruction of the Boor Ancestral Sect was largely because of Qin Yun. He was in no way inferior to Skyimmortal or Skyfiend experts.


    "My master is a sixth firmament Skyfiend. How is he this afraid of Qin Yun?" Nine Mountain Island Lord found it unbelievable as he turned even more flustered.


    "Nine Mountain!"


    Qin Yun''s voice sounded. It was ice-cold but it contained intense hatred. "You sure can run. But it''s useless no matter where you run to!"


    Everyone present could sense the intense hatred and killing intent.


    "Qin Yun is here to capture me?" Nine Mountain Island Lord was somewhat at a loss.


    Qin Yun looked at the pale Nine Mountain Island Lord standing far away. It was him, the great fiendish demon that had wreaked havoc in Jiang Prefecture! He made his disciple, Water God, capture large batches of young boys and girls, taking away his precious young sister.


    His diligent practice in the way of the sword stemmed from that moment.


    "Nine Mountain?" Yufan was alarmed when he saw this. He instantly understood what was happening. He realized that Sword Immortal Qin''s target was this not-particularly-striking disciple of his! He had only been implicated in passing.


    "Nine Mountain, who gave you the guts to offend Sword Immortal Qin?" Yufan roared angrily.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord could not help but fall into a daze when he saw his Empyrean Lord yelling at him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, deal with this Nine Mountain however you like," Yufan immediately said loudly. "Our fiendish ways have several torturing methods. I will definitely cooperate with you if any assistance is required."

 477 Cui Lianfeng

    Chapter 477: Cui Lianfeng


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Master, you are the Empyrean Lord of the Yufan world¡­" Nine Mountain Island Lord could not help but look at Qin Yun after hearing his master grovel and forsake him.


    He knew that it was all because of Qin Yun.


    "I never expected that the sword immortal from Grand Dominance City would even have the Empyrean Lord of a fiendcelestial world fear him." Nine Mountain Island Lord understood at that moment that he was doomed.


    "Qin Yun!"


    Nine Mountain Island Lord shouted loudly, "I have already escaped to another fiendcelestial world, yet you were able to find me. I''m completely convinced of your prowess, but I''m still a mortal. I have yet to step into the Essence Soul realm! If you kill me, it will be a sin!"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I can help you do the honors," Empyrean Lord Yufan said immediately. "You won''t be stained by any sins."


    "There''s no need. A mere mortal fiendish demon''s karma¡­ is nothing to me," said Qin Yun.


    The stronger one was, the more resistant they were to the tribulations.


    Qin Yun''s strength now matched that of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal. As long as he did not slaughter mortals on a large scale, the death of one mortal would not harm him greatly. The tribulations that were hundreds of times stronger than the typical Essence Soul realm were nothing worth mentioning to Qin Yun.


    "But then, wouldn''t you be staining your hands, Sword Immortal Qin? I can do it on your behalf. A Skyfiend like me is naturally adept at torturing techniques." Yufan tried hard to curry favor.


    "Do you think there''s a way you get to leave alive?" Qin Yun turned to look over.


    Yufan''s expression changed.


    "I cast my divine power to stop you because I did not want a Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord like you to escape. Your survival means the suffering of countless beings," snorted Qin Yun coldly. He waved his hand and immediately released blinding sword flashes that surged in every direction. They enveloped Yufan, as well as a few Skyfiends and fiendcelestials.


    Even Yufan, who had cultivated in a Sanguine Shadow Fiendbody, giving him intense life preservation powers¡­ died by one strike of Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. However, his corpse was left intact.


    It was an oxymoron. His corpse was intact but he was already dead.


    "Retrieve." With a beckon of his hand, he stored away the numerous Skyfiend corpses.


    "They are all dead?" Nine Mountain Island Lord looked at the distant Qin Yun in a daze. "He is that powerful? He wiped out all those Skyfiends with one strike?"


    At that moment, Nine Mountain Island Lord understood how powerful Qin Yun had become.


    After becoming a disciple of Green Touring Palace, Qin Yun had indeed soared.


    "Oh?" Nine Mountain Island Lord felt a force lift him up as he involuntarily flew up and to Qin Yun''s side.


    Qin Yun looked at him.


    "I''ll probably lead a life worse than death if I stay in his hands." Nine Mountain Island Lord clenched his teeth, deciding to self-destruct.


    Hum!


    However, an invisible force had long permeated every spot of his body. When he attempted to self-destruct, his body''s Dharmic powers seemed to freeze.


    "You wish to commit suicide in my Dao domain?"Qin Yun looked at him. "Don''t worry, Nine Mountain, I won''t kill you now."


    With that said, a wisp of Dharmic powers was injected into Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body, sealing all his Dharmic powers.


    Only then did Qin Yun released a beam of Sword Qi, opening up a temporary void passageway to his homeworld, the Great Chang world.


    "Brother Yun?" On the other end of the void passageway was a grass patch beside the mirror lake. Yi Xiao was looking through it.


    "I''ve found Nine Mountain Island Lord." Qin Yun yanked Nine Mountain Island Lord and threw him over.


    Sou!


    Nine Mountain Island Lord was only a mortal fiendish demon. As such, it was easy to throw him into the void passageway and send him to the Great Chang world.


    "I''ll be right back." As Qin Yun said that, blurry light descended upon him, as he vanished.


    ******


    Outside Grand Dominance City.


    The Qin family had gathered outside the city, arriving at an inconspicuous grave.


    Although the tomb was remote and inconspicuous, it did not have any weeds. Clearly, someone tended to it perennially.


    Qin Liehu, Changlan, Qin An, and Qin Yun, together with Yi Xiao and company, came before the tomb. Beside them knelt Nine Mountain Island Lord. He was in a tragic state. After experiencing several torture techniques, he only wished to die.


    "Sis, the mastermind has finally been brought here," said Qin An with reddened eyes.


    "Xiang''er."


    Changlan caressed the tomb feeling despondent. "I often dream of you. It''s sad that my daughter''s corpse could not be found after her death."


    By the side, Qin Yiyi was with Yi Xiao. She asked via voice transmission, "Mom, since my aunt died without a corpse, she might not be dead. Who knows, she might still be alive?"


    "Your dad had gotten some of his senior brothers to help back then. They checked the records of life and death." Yi Xiao shook her head gently. "Your aunt is long dead. She has been reincarnated for decades. She''s only an ordinary mortal and has a very weak soul. It''s impossible to awaken the memories of her past life. Furthermore, since she''s been reincarnated for decades, she has a new life of her own. A brand new personality¡­ She''s already someone else."


    Qin Yiyi nodded.


    "I heard from your dad that," said Yi Xiao via voice transmission, "there was a Golden Immortal mighty figure who was killed in the Three Realms, with a wisp of his True Spirits reincarnating! After numerous reincarnations and after suffering numerous calamities, he finally cultivated back to the Golden Immortal realm. Only then did he awaken the past memories inside his True Spirits. However, the person was already a new Golden Immortal. Therefore, a reincarnated person needs to have his memories awakened early. The later it is, the more the reincarnated body ends up becoming the main one."


    "Does no one receive a Golden Immortal''s reincarnation?" Qin Yiyi was alarmed.


    That was a Golden Immortal mighty figure, a powerhouse of the Three Realms.


    "According to your dad, when a wisp of a Golden Immortal''s True Spirit reincarnates, it''s impossible to detect. Even the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestors are unable to do so," said Yi Xiao.


    "Okay." Qin Yiyi nodded.


    The both of them secretly conversed via voice transmission.


    Qin Yun and company were in front of the tomb, looking disconsolate. Their sister had died too tragically and the thoughts of her pained their hearts.


    "Sis," Qin Yun looked at the tomb and said, "I have finally captured Nine Mountain Island Lord and brought him here."


    "Nine Mountain, look carefully."


    Qin Yun grabbed Nine Mountain Island Lord''s head and raised his head.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord, who only wished for death, saw the name on the tombstone.


    "Qin Hongxiang?" Nine Mountain Island Lord''s voice was raspy. "I never expected that while cultivating using the heart blood of so many boys and girls, I would use the blood of your sister, Sword Immortal Qin. Haha, it was worth it. My life wasn''t in vain."


    "Bam!"


    Qin Yun struck Nine Mountain Island Lord''s forehead with a palm strike.


    Nine Mountain Island Lord''s body convulsed as his eyes widened. Following that, he reduced to dust, scattering across the world.


    Qin Yun silently looked at the tomb in front of him. He had no way to awaken the past memories of an overly weak ordinary soul. Furthermore, his sister had been reincarnated for too long. She was already a different person. His sister had ceased to exist forever.


    The young baby girl from his memories who always followed behind him and his brother was forever gone.


    Over all these years, he had often dreamed of his sister.


    "I have avenged you. Water God is dead. Nine Mountain Island Lord is dead. Sis, live your new life well," said Qin Yun silently.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun untangled a knot in his heart after killing Nine Mountain Island Lord.


    Qin Yun''s entire mind underwent drastic changes from the experience. He turned more peaceful and cultivated in Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor. He spent much time with his wife and daughter, seldom leaving his residence.


    Time flew by.


    In a blink of an eye, it had been fifteen years since he entered Green Touring Palace. The Great Chang world was also very calm. The Fiendcelestial Empyrean Lord, Kuifu, no longer did anything. Perhaps he knew that Daoist Divine Firmament and Qin Yun were both around, making the Great Chang world a force to be reckoned.


    "Might I trouble you to pass the message, saying that Cui Lianfeng wishes to seek an audience with Sword Immortal Qin?" At Qin Manor''s entrance, Cui Lianfeng said amiably to the gatekeeper.


    "Cui Lianfeng? Sword Tower''s Elder Cui?" The gatekeeper was a young man. He was somewhat astonished.


    Back when Qin Yun rose to prominence and reached the Connate Paramount realm, the experience resulted in two Paramount realm sword immortals, Qin Yun and Cui Lianfeng. The two of them had a good relationship.


    The gatekeeper was astonished.


    Sword Tower and Qin Manor had a close relationship. A meeting with Qin Yun could have been done through a voice transmission. There was no need for the gatekeeper to pass the message.


    "Just pass the message," said Cui Lianfeng. He was feeling extremely perturbed.


    "Alright. Elder Cui, please wait a moment." The gatekeeper immediately entered, wondering to himself, "Why can''t you just contact my master directly? Do you really need me to pass the message? How odd."

 478 Divine Power Initial Success

    Chapter 478: Divine Power Initial Success


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Moments later.


    The gatekeeper returned, stirring Cui Lianfeng''s emotions. He was filled with anticipation.


    "Elder Cui," said the gatekeeper. "Madam said that Master is currently not in the Great Chang world. It''s unknown exactly when he will return. Madam will inform him once he returns."


    "He''s not in the Great Chang world?" Cui Lianfeng was slightly taken aback and could only nod. "Thank you."


    With that said, he turned and left helplessly.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun had indeed been cultivating in Qin Manor most of the time these past few years. But sometimes, he would head to Green Touring Palace for seclusion during critical junctures.


    Green Touring Palace. Void Island.


    Void Island was a cultivation sacred land similar to Broken Sword Valley. It was an island that floated in the void, spanning fifty kilometers! More than a thousand Green Touring Palace disciples sat cross-legged on Void Island, and each of them were separated by several kilometers, not disturbing each other while they cultivated.


    "Perfected Heavenly Cycle?" Qin Yun was one of the thousand disciples sitting cross-legged in silent meditation. He was looking at the periphery of Void Island into the distance.


    Void Island was enveloped by the void.


    The space was like a sphere, encompassing the island. Faint golden runic patterns swirled on the surface of the void sphere.


    "Late-stage Skyimmortals mostly meditate over the void." Qin Yun looked at the swirling golden runic patterns from a distance. "The void is what''s considered a perfected Heavenly Cycle. My Sword Dao has reached quite a high level of accumulation. The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes are just a hair away from the initial success stage. But I''m always just a sliver short. What am I lacking?"


    Despite feeling that he had accumulated enough, and even though his divine powers were already close to reaching the initial success stage, he had failed to break through all this while. Therefore, Qin Yun came to Green Touring Palace to seclude himself.


    "I''ll consume a Five Senses Immortal Pill." Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the yellow-skinned calabash. He poured out an Immortal Pill that suffused a radiance before swallowing it down.


    After consuming it, Qin Yun immediately felt ideas flood his mind. The insights he had regarding his Sword Dao instantly collided with these ideas, as each of them were inferred into insights. Various sword arts also appeared in his mind.


    To Qin Yun¡­ the myriad items of the world could all be manifested as Sword Dao.


    The sword was his way of viewing the world.


    Time passed and, after fifteen days, Qin Yun''s cultivation came to an end.


    "I''m done." Qin Yun smiled. "The two divine powers, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, have finally broken through, reaching the initial success stage."


    These two divine powers stemmed from the Ancient Heavenly Courts.


    The initial success stage allowed one to rival a ninth firmament Skyimmortal.


    If one gained the phenomenal success stage, they would be able to battle mighty figures like Golden Immortals or Buddhas.


    As for perfection? The perfected stage of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm could trap eighteen Golden Immortals and Buddhas inside, giving them absolutely no leeway to flee. However, no one had attained this stage ever since the Ancient Heavenly Courts toppled.


    "External items like Immortal Pills are indeed useful for cultivation; however, they are only of minor help. It is said that Myriad Dharma Pool is the most miraculous cultivation aid of all. Its effects are hundreds or a thousand times better than one Immortal Pill," thought Qin Yun. "But I should only enter the Myriad Dharma Pool after I encounter the bottleneck at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm."


    According to the experiences of many of his senior brothers and sisters, even if one could not break through to become a Golden Immortal after entering the Myriad Dharma Pool, it would still be a great boon to them. Their strength would increase and constantly approach that of the Golden Immortal level.


    "It''s time to return." Qin Yun got up and left Void Island.


    ¡­


    The blurry light descended as Qin Yun returned to Qin Manor in the Great Chang world''s Grand Dominance City.


    "Dad." Qin Yiyi, who was practicing her swordplay on the mirror lake''s surface, could not help but shout when she saw Qin Yun.


    "Yiyi." Qin Yun smiled at his daughter. After all these years, Yiyi had matured some. She was now a big girl.


    "Dad, this seclusion of yours was quite long. It took more than half a year." Qin Yiyi walked across the lake to the bank.


    "I had to consume one of my Immortal Pills to break through. If not, it would not have been strange for me to be in seclusion for a decade or two," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Dad, didn''t you give me a few Immortal Pills?" asked Qin Yiyi. "Perhaps you should leave more for yourself."


    "Don''t worry. I have enough for myself," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Besides, my Sword Dao is getting closer and closer to the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm. Ordinary Immortal Pills are less and less useful to me."


    If he reached a bottleneck, the consumption of a few Immortal Pills had negligible utility.


    The help was obvious during a period of rapid growth in strength.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun looked at his wife who walked over from the distant yard.


    "Brother Yun," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Sword Tower''s Cui Lianfeng came a month ago. He actually got the gatekeeper outside the manor to pass the message to seek an audience with you."


    "He got the gatekeeper to pass the message? To seek an audience with me?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Such an official call on you probably means it''s something important," said Yi Xiao.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded and immediately sensed Cui Lianfeng through their karmic ties.


    "Brother Cui, It''s Qin Yun. I just returned." Qin Yun directly sent a voice transmission over through their karmic connection.


    Not long after.


    The gatekeeper ran into the back garden and upon seeing Qin Yun, said reverently, "Master, Elder Cui wishes to seek an audience with you."


    "Let him in," said Qin Yun.


    Soon, Cui Lianfeng entered. He saw Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Qin Yiyi when he arrived.


    He had an austere expression on his face, and when he came in front of Qin Yun, he immediately knelt down, as though he was about to prostrate himself.


    "Brother Cui, what are you doing?" said Qin Yun immediately. He used his Dharmic powers to hold Cui Lianfeng up, preventing him from kneeling. "Tell me whatever you have to say."


    Failing to kneel, Cui Lianfeng could only give a deep bow and said, "Brother Qin, I have something I must ask of you."


    "Go ahead," said Qin Yun. Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi were listening by the side.


    Cui Lianfeng looked at Qin Yun, his eyes brimming with desire. "Brother Qin, I wish to ask you to impart your Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation to me! Recently, I stepped into the Dao, with a Dao domain of five kilometers! However, I''m a sword immortal and have no Dharmic formulation to condense an Essence Soul. I heard that in the Three Realms, apart from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, only you have created one. Therefore, I am here to implore you."


    "I know that the Dao is not readily instructed. Brother Qin, in order to create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation, you went through great difficulties and so you would not easily impart it. But if I do not have that Dharmic formulation, I''ll forever be a mortal. Once my five hundred years are up, I''ll turn to dust. Therefore, I can only plead this of you. As long as you are willing to impart the Dharmic formulation to me, I''ll do anything you instruct."


    Qin Yun furrowed his brows when he heard that. "On this matter¡­"


    When he saw Qin Yun frowning, Cui Lianfeng immediately said, "I do know that I''m weak, but I hope that, on account of our past friendship, you will impart the Dharmic formulation to me seeing how inclined I am towards the Dao."


    "Brother Cui," said Qin Yun. "Although a Dharmic formulation is not readily instructed, you are one of my Great Chang world brethren and we had close ties in the past. I will definitely impart it to you if you seek my help but¡­ this Dharmic formulation of mine requires a Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers before one can condense an Essence Soul."


    "A Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers?" Cui Lianfeng was astonished.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded. "The Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers are too sharp, so nurturing an Essence Soul is extremely difficult. I have heard that even the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage requires a Dao domain of fifteen kilometers before they can condense an Essence Soul. This lineage of mine¡­ still needs a minimum of twenty-five kilometers despite numerous attempts to perfect it."


    "Even after modifying it after extensive periods of time, I''m afraid the difficulty of condensing an Essence Soul for this lineage will not be lower than the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s," said Qin Yun.


    Cui Lianfeng was taken aback before a bitterness overcame him.


    "It''s said that sword immortals are powerful. The more powerful a Dharmic formulation, the higher the requirement needed to condense an Essence Soul." Cui Lianfeng gave a self-deprecating smile. "I just never imagined that a Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers is required to condense an Essence Soul."


    "My stepping into the Dao only gave me a Dao domain of five kilometers. I probably have no chance left." Cui Lianfeng immediately thanked Qin Yun. "Thank you for informing me, Brother Qin. I''ll take my leave."


    Following that, he turned and left.


    Qin Yun wanted to say something but all he could do was sigh silently.


    Grand Supreme sword immortals were rare, and his lineage temporarily had no new person to take up his mantle because of the high requirements!


    It was not easy for mortal sword immortals to reach a Dao domain of twenty-five kilometers. Back when he was a mortal, he had reached the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm before he created the Essence Soul Dharmic formulation.


    "I do wish to help him since it''s rare for a Great Chang world mortal sword immortal to step into the Dao," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s not bad to enjoy five hundred years. There are way more people worse off than Elder Cui," said Yi Xiao. Back when she was imprisoned, she suffered the pain of her dragon transformation daily, while weeping over her daughter daily and missing her husband. That was true misery, which was why she especially cherished her present days.


    "By the way, Xiaoxiao. I''m planning to switch targets for the second round of Green Touring Palace tests," said Qin Yun.


    Green Touring Palace''s second round of tests required him to kill a Skyfiend or extremely vile figure that had strength of at least a seventh firmament Skyfiend!


    "Switch targets? Didn''t you already choose an eighth firmament Skyfiend previously? Who do you plan on switching to?" asked Yi Xiao. Qin Yiyi listened from the side as well.


    "Old Fiend Fire Puppet," said Qin Yun.


    "Him?" Yi Xiao could not help but comment. "You previously mentioned that the West Sea Ancient Skydragon''s homeworld, the Dragon Mountain world, had been occupied by this Old Fiend Fire Puppet, causing a large number of dragons to be slain."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. The only wish the West Sea Ancient Skydragon had before his death was to have his ashes scattered in the Dragon Mountain world''s Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake.


    "But Old Fiend Fire Puppet is a ninth firmament Skyfiend," said Yi Xiao. "Wouldn''t that be too difficult?"


    "There are things you are unaware of," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Old Fiend Fire Puppet is indeed famous. His strength is also rather formidable, but he is most famous for his puppet arts. When he sends a large number of puppets to attack¡­ that was how the dragon-entrenched Dragon Mountain world was leveled! Even a ninth firmament Skyimmortal would not wish to provoke such a large number of puppets."


    "I never thought I could deal with him previously, either. I planned on first choosing a few weaker seventh or eighth firmament Skyfiends, someone easily bullied to pass my second round of tests to get the treasures of Star Cluster Hall."


    "But now, my divine powers have broken through. I have obtained initial success in the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm! A divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm is a perfect defense against being swarmed," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Therefore, Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s puppet arts happen to be weak against me."

 479 Dragon Mountain world

    Chapter 479: Dragon Mountain world


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brother Yun, you must not be careless. He is, after all, a ninth firmament Skyfiend! Having cultivated for so long, he probably has some powerful techniques up his sleeve," said Yi Xiao.


    "Dad, the longer one lives, the more life-preserving methods they collect," said Qin Yiyi. "Dad, you have to be careful."


    "Don''t worry. This will be my first time fighting a Skyfiend that''s above the seventh firmament realm. How would I be careless?" Qin Yun smiled as he looked at his daughter.


    Qin Yun never planned on dealing with Old Fiend Fire Puppet so soon.


    He just happened to have a breakthrough in his divine powers, and among the two divine powers, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm happened to be strong against the fiend. Furthermore, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes divine power was an extremely powerful protective divine power.


    With the possession of two great divine powers and his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun was confident he could win this battle.


    From his point of view, even if Old Fiend Fire Puppet was stronger than he expected, he was confident that escaping alive was not a problem.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was in no rush to set off. After all, he had just achieved a breakthrough with his two great divine powers. He also needed to practice with his divine powers to match his sword arts and accumulate greater experience. Furthermore, he needed to make preparations for any unforeseen circumstances. After all, he had yet to fight a seventh firmament Skyfiend. He was directly dealing with a ninth firmament Skyfiend! He definitely felt the pressure.


    "He studies puppet arts. Once his puppets are destroyed, he will be mostly crippled of his strength. As for engaging in physical, melee combat? There has not been any instances of Old Fiend Fire Puppet being good at that." Qin Yun was still mostly confident.


    ******


    Dragon Mountain world.


    Two figures tore through the void beyond the Dragon Mountain world''s stratosphere, as they looked down at the planet.


    "Brother Goat, this is my brother Fire Puppet''s cultivation grounds." A roc fiend looked down and said with a smile, "He and I have worked together under Fiend Supremacy for quite some time. We have a close relationship."


    The goat demon by his side had cold eyes as he said in a deep voice, "Brother Roc Fiend, back when I contacted him for help, Old Fiend Fire Puppet agreed immediately. In a while, we will be entering his lair. He wouldn''t suddenly go back on his word, right? He has the advantage of his array formation in his lair and a large bunch of puppets. If he suddenly goes back on his word, things will be terrible."


    "Don''t worry! I can guarantee you!" said Roc Fiend. "I, Roc Yin, might cultivate in the fiendish way, but have never schemed against my old bunch of demon brothers. By joining forces with me, even if Fire Puppet loses decorum with us, there is no need for us to fear him."


    "Okay." Goat Demon nodded slightly. "Alright Roc Fiend, I trust you."


    "Don''t worry. Fire Puppet will not pull any tricks," said Roc Fiend with a laugh. "Let''s go over."


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The both of them immediately swooped downwards, penetrating the layers of clouds before landing in the Dragon Mountain world.


    Throughout the massive Three Realms were numerous Small Worlds. However, Small Worlds had their differences. Certain Small Worlds had nearly zero Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, making it impossible to cultivate. However, there were other Small Worlds which were rather special. The Dragon Mountain world was one of them. The reason why so many dragons had chosen to live there was because of its environment.


    Later on¡­


    This Small World''s environment caught Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s eye. He stormed Dragon Mountain world alone, causing a massacre that produced rivers of blood. Large swaths of dragons perished, leaving a small number fleeing in panic.


    In a hall.


    "Let me do the introduction. This is a good brother of my demon brethren, Demon King Prestige Goat. We have a friendship tested by life and death, we''ve become true brothers-in-arms. Brother Fire Puppet, you have to do a good job when refining the puppet," said Roc Fiend.


    "Fiend Roc, your problem is my problem." Old Fiend Fire Puppet was a red-haired elder. His eyes looked burningly at Prestige Goat. "Where are the materials you prepared? Let me take a look."


    Goat Demon looked at Roc Fiend who nodded at him. Only then did he wave his hand.


    Swoosh.


    On the ground beside him, a reddish-bronze stout male corpse appeared. This man wore some damaged armor, revealing skin that appeared to be tempered from red bronze. However, there was a huge hole in his chest. As he laid there on the ground, he looked to be a hundred and ten feet.


    "This is a Grand Magus corpse I just received," said Goat Demon softly. "It''s a ninth firmament Grand Magus that specializes in the physical cultivation."


    "Good, good." Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s eyes lit up and walked over. He could not help but caress the Grand Magus''s corpse. "It''s good stuff. Have you prepared the rest of the supplementary materials?"


    "I have gathered them all according to your instructions." Goat Demon nodded. "I have also prepared the commission."


    "There''s no rush for the commission. Once the refinement succeeds, the puppet will be yours. You can then hand me the commission." Old Fiend Fire Puppet was somewhat eager as he said immediately, "Let''s not delay this any further. I''ll refine it now. However, my refinement cannot be interrupted. Although I have some puppets to help defend me, I do ask the two of you to stand guard outside. I estimate that the refinement will take ten years."


    "Don''t worry. We will stand guard outside." Goat Demon nodded. He naturally had to keep a close eye since he had given so many treasures to the fiend.


    After all, one had to know that the values of different corpses could be very disparate.


    For instance, Daoist immortals who cultivated in talisman amulet Dharma spells or controlled Dharma treasures typically had weaker bodies. Their most powerful means were on their talisman amulets and Dharma treasures! Their bodies were worth very little. Their most precious items on them were the talisman amulets and Dharma treasures.


    As for those that cultivated their bodies...


    The battle magi, Daoist''s Physical Establishing Sage, Buddhists, and even the fiendish way would mainly cultivate their bodies. By cultivating their bodies like a Dharma treasure, they would use immense amounts of treasures on their bodies. Therefore, the most precious thing about these experts was their bodies!


    "Boom!" The door to Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s Earth Fire Hall, which was specially used for the refinement of puppets, closed.


    Roc Fiend and Goat Demon sat cross-legged outside the hall, waiting extremely patiently.


    These old fellows had all lived for many years. Standing guard outside a door for ten years was nothing.


    "Brother Goat. These kind of ninth firmament Grand Magi who cultivate their bodies are easy to defeat, but they are very difficult to kill. Furthermore, the magi are usually very united. They would not easily let a ninth firmament Grand Magus''s corpse be left in the open. How did you get it?" asked Roc Fiend out of curiosity.


    "I was lucky." Goat Demon chuckled. He was filled with anticipation as well. By having a powerful puppet, he would be adding another powerful mean to his arsenal.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun prepared for three months and only decided to set off after Grand Dominance City saw its first snow of the year.


    "Rumble." Qin Manor''s Treasure Pavilion''s door opened.


    "Master." Two silver-armored Guardian Generals standing at the entrance immediately bowed respectfully.


    They were also refined puppets. They were the spoils of water Qin Yun received after killing Hawk Fiend King Che Jie. They were a pair of Guardian Generals with the strength of third Firmament Skyimmortals. They pleasantly surprised Qin Yun so he left them at Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun tersely responded and nodded before entering Treasure Pavilion.


    The Qin family''s Treasure Pavilion was covered in array formations. The typical fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortal could forget about barging in. There were large amounts of treasures and manuals placed in here. Many of them were Qin Yun''s spoils of war. It also included a bunch of Skyfiend corpses, such as Fiendlord Baichan and Empyrean Lord Yufan. The treasures they had gathered ultimately became part of the Qin family''s Treasure Pavilion.


    As for the treasures that Qin Yun would bring with him? They were those that he needed himself and were extremely precious.


    "Ancient Skydragon Ba Yun." Qin Yun came in front of a rack and picked up a black urn from the various items placed on the rack. "If everything happens successfully, I will satisfy your last wish. I will scatter your ashes in the Dragon Mountain world''s Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake."


    After putting away the ash urn, Qin Yun walked out Treasure Pavilion.


    The door to Treasure Pavilion closed once again.


    Outside, Yi Xiao was dressed in a white-blue robe. She stood in the snow smiling at Qin Yun.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun looked at his wife.


    "You have to be careful," said Yi Xiao. "Killing the enemy is secondary. Coming home alive is what''s most important."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. He could feel the concern his wife had for him.


    "It''s just an old fiend. Wait for me to return so we can have a celebratory banquet," said Qin Yun with a smile. Following that, a blurry light descended upon him, as he vanished, departing the Great Chang world.

 480 Exposed

    Chapter 480: Exposed


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    By using Green Touring Palace to travel, he quickly arrived just outside Dragon Mountain world.


    "I''ve arrived."


    Qin Yun looked rather wary as he gazed at the planet before him.


    If his previous kills of Fiendlord Baichan, Hawk Fiend King, Old Tree Demon, Empyrean Lord Yufan, and others were said to be a form of overkill and even bullying, Qin Yun would need to go all out here even after breaking through with his two great divine powers. And even so, he did not have absolute confidence in killing Old Fiend Fire Puppet.


    For instance, Ancestral Master Zhang had passed the second round of tests, obtaining the treasures in Star Cluster Hall. He made the necessary preparations, believing that he could deal with Empyrean Lord Kuifu, but eventually, Kuifu still managed to escape.


    Clearly, once an enemy''s strength reached the eighth or ninth firmament, defeating them might be easy, but the difficulty of killing them was more than ten times harder.


    These old fellows that ruled over a region would spend a lot of effort on life preservation.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun swooped down and tore through layers of clouds, until he finally appeared in a vast and beautiful world.


    "The dragons had prospered in this world for years. Back then, the West Sea''s Ancient Skydragon Ba Yun was still young in this world, but unfortunately, the dragons are long extinct in this Dragon Mountain world." Qin Yun sighed. He also looked at his surroundings, for at his present strength, he could discover several fiendcelestials in a five-hundred-kilometer radius even without casting his Eye of Lightning.


    "I''ll choose a fiendcelestial with the most heinous sins. It''s this one. What rich Sinful Sanguine Halo."


    Qin Yun took a step before vanishing with Void Transference.


    "The only thing we''ve done all this while is chores. I''ve been doing three thousand years worth of chores after coming to this world. I haven''t learned any of the techniques used to refine a puppet." A peeved fiendcelestial was flying through the clouds while carrying a wild beast''s carcass. "I really regret agreeing to my family''s wish to accompany many fiendcelestials to follow Old Fiend Fire Puppet. If I had continued cultivating in blood refining arts, I might already be a Skyfiend."


    Just as the fiendcelestial was grumbling, a human youth suddenly appeared out of thin air above him.


    "Oh?" The fiendcelestial widened eyes that emitted green light. He looked at Qin Yun in astonishment.


    There were humans on this world?


    Hum!


    A Dao domain''s powers penetrated the fiendcelestial''s body in its entirety. Even his Dharmic powers were restricted.


    "If you don''t wish to die, be obedient. Answer whatever I ask," said Qin Yun.


    "Who are you?" asked the fiendcelestial frantically.


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the fiendcelestial''s eyes started to pool with blood. He felt an excruciating pain all over as he shouted, "Stop! Stop! Stop!"


    "I already said that you are to answer whatever I ask. Do not say another word if you are not asked," said Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Moments later, Qin Yun had gained a more detailed understanding of the Dragon Mountain world after his interrogation. Following that, he casually squashed the fiendcelestial to death. Qin Yun took one step in the direction of Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s old base, Fire Fiend Mountain.


    Fire Fiend Mountain was the place in the Dragon Mountain world with the richest fiery powers. Old Fiend Fire Puppet concentrated all the world''s fiery powers here, and deliberately created an Earth Fire Hall in the belly of the mountain so as to aid his refinement of puppets.


    "Fire Fiend Mountain."


    As Qin Yun looked at the distant, fiery-red mountain, he proceeded one step after another. Each step easily traversed kilometers as he gradually approached Fire Fiend Mountain.


    Fire Fiend Mountain had many fiendcelestials living around it. Many of them were Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s subordinates and disciples. Dragon Mountain world was considered one of the more important lands of the fiendish way in the Effulgent dominion. This was because the number of Skyfiends who were adept at artifact, pill, and puppet refinement was low. Furthermore, those with extremely high attainments were even rarer.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet mainly focused on the cultivation of puppet arts, cultivating to the ninth firmament Skyfiend realm. He was definitely one of the best puppet masters of the fiendish way in the Effulgent dominion.


    Many Skyfiends voluntarily came under him to study his puppet arts.


    There were also many who sought Old Fiend Fire Puppet to refine puppets of their own.


    For instance, even the demon''s Demon King Prestige Goat had gone through Roc Fiend to seek Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s aid in refining a puppet.


    "Large numbers of Daoist, Buddhist and Dragon race corpses are sent here to be refined into puppets, becoming hatchet men for the fiendish way." Qin Yun observed Fire Fiend Mountain as he proceeded. When he looked inside the mountain, many Skyfiends were in seclusion, refining puppets. Many of them were using human corpses!


    "Oh?"


    In the Earth Fire Hall.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet was patiently using a brush to draw runic patterns on the Grand Magus corpse. He estimated that the puppet refinement would take ten years, and the preparatory work such as the modification of the corpse and the drawing would require a year.


    "A Daoist Essence Soul punk has infiltrated my world?" Old Fiend Fire Puppet chuckled secretly. "Quite impressive. There are many Skyfiends and fiendcelestials living in my Fire Fiend Mountain. There are also numerous array formations. He actually managed to infiltrate noiselessly. He even managed to avoid the notice of all the Skyfiends and fiendcelestials. He seems to be using Void Transference means constantly. He''s probably relying on a treasure for Void Transference."


    "Unfortunately, your infiltration methods are nothing but a joke in front of me." Old Fiend Fire Puppet was filled with confidence. "If this were any other time, I would have the mind to capture you and interrogate you on how you arrived in this world. But now that I''m refining a puppet, I have no time to bother with an Essence Soul punk like you. So, it''s best you just die."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun proceeded carefully with each step. He took every step in midair, not touching anything.


    He did not even release his Dao domain since Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s realm was in no way weaker than his. On the contrary, it was easier to be detected with a Dao domain.


    Qin Yun even changed his looks to conceal his identity. After all, the lesser the enemy knew of him, the bigger surprise he could spring.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression suddenly changed as he looked far ahead to the left.


    In the distance, there was an inconspicuous rock about ten feet wide. It suddenly warped and transformed into a fiend general. It wielded a huge ax in its hand as it roared, "Essence Soul punk, die!" Immediately, the ax cleaved down at him.


    This puppet fiend general''s strength was approximately at the level of an ordinary Skyfiend.


    "I''ve been discovered? Even a ordinary-looking rock in the distance is a puppet?" Qin Yun clicked his tongue. "In terms of puppet arts, this Old Fiend Fire Puppet is indeed one of the Effulgent dominion''s greatest masters."


    He had not detected anything special about the rock previously.


    An ordinary dead item was actually a puppet! Clearly, his every move had been long discovered by these puppets.


    "Bam!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand, shooting a wisp of Sword Qi. When it struck the puppet fiend general, it immediately caused the fiend general''s body to explode. It rapidly coalesced and was restored to normal.


    "Just a simple strike destroyed that puppet? This Daoist Essence Soul punk looks to be pretty strong after all." Inside Earth Fire Hall, Old Fiend Fire Puppet continued drawing his runic patterns as he diverted a little attention to control a rather powerful puppet. "An Essence Soul punk with such strength probably has quite an impressive background. I''m interested to know who he is."


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun destroyed the puppet fiend general, he rushed straight Fire Fiend Mountain''s interior.


    "I''ve been exposed. I need to end this quick." Qin Yun no longer had the time to attack Fire Fiend Mountain''s array formation.


    "Boom!"


    Fire Fiend Mountain was tall and it had many minor peaks. One of the peaks suddenly stood up, growing a head and limbs. It became a thousand-foot tall mountain puppet as it strode towards Qin Yun with killing intent.


    "What''s happening?"


    "What happened over there?"


    Many Skyfiends and fiendcelestials who resided in Fire Fiend Mountain also discovered the huge commotion. They saw the mountain transform into a puppet as it charged in a particular direction.


    "This puppet''s strength is approximately that of a fifth or sixth firmament Skyfiend," thought Qin Yun. "It looks like it''s too difficult to catch him by surprise. I''ll have to expose my identity after all."


    Against the mountain puppet''s incoming attack, Qin Yun instantly attacked with his sword.


    "Boom!!!"


    The resplendent whitish-gold sword beams were extremely dazzling. They stretched out for tens of thousands of feet, instantly boring through the mountain puppet, leaving it in shambles. As the sword flashes streaked above Fire Fiend Mountain, it left many Skyfiends and fiendcelestials horrified and blinded.


    "Oh?"


    Inside the Earth Fire Hall, Old Fiend Fire Puppet, who was drawing runic patterns, was astounded. "An Essence Soul sword immortal? Strength that matches that of an eighth or ninth firmament Skyfiend! In the entire Effulgent Great World, there is only one¡ªthat Qin Yun from the Great Chang world."


    "What''s happening?"


    Roc Fiend and Goat Demon, who were responsible for keeping watch outside the Earth Fire Hall were still sitting cross-legged. However, the commotion made them look outside. Each one of them were no way inferior to Old Fiend Fire Puppet in strength. One of them was even a Demon King of the demons. At that moment, they noticed the Essence Soul sword immortal outside and above Fire Fiend Mountain.


    "It''s him, the Essence Soul sword immortal who created a new sword immortal lineage?" Although they were somewhat surprised, they showed no panic.

 481 Great Divine Power

    Chapter 481: Great Divine Power


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Roc Fiend, Demon King Prestige Goat, help me fend off Qin Yun. I''m currently refining the puppet and cannot stop. If I do, many of the materials will go to waste. I need to complete the runic patterns on the Grand Magus''s corpse in one go. If I were to stop, the corpse would need to go through cleansing refinement once again, making it even more expensive," said Old Fiend Fire Puppet via voice transmission.


    "Don''t worry, leave it to us," replied Roc Fiend.


    "Brother Fire Puppet, just focus on refining the puppet. I will not allow this Sword Immortal Qin disrupt the refinement." a fierce glint flashed in Goat Demon''s eyes. In order to refine a powerful puppet, he had paid a tremendous price. If the refinement process was stopped midway? The corpse would be left half-crippled, requiring a brand new cleansing refinement! That was not even mentioning the various precious materials that would need to be replaced.


    "Brother Goat, what do you plan on doing?" Roc Fiend''s eyes were ice-cold. He was cruel in nature and he cultivated in the fiendish way. He naturally loved killing deep down.


    "According to our character, it''s best to kill! However, he is ultimately a Green Touring Palace disciple. We demons have some seniors who have entered Green Touring Palace too. Let''s negotiate, and if that doesn''t work, we can always attack," said Goat Demon.


    "Since the puppet being refined is yours, I''ll abide by your choice," said Roc Fiend.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun destroyed the mountain puppet with one strike, he immediately charged towards the Earth Fire Hall at Fire Fiend Mountain''s core.


    He barged in the entire way.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Although the array formations in Fire Fiend Mountain activated, Qin Yun was still able to forcibly tear through them.


    "Halt." Two figures walked over from the periphery of the Earth Fire Hall as they eyed him warily.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed as he stopped. "Why are there an additional two?"


    The two figures stood firm at a distance, Roc Fiend emitting a fiendish aura and Demon King Prestige Goat with a pair of goat horns on his head. His thin face had fur and his eyes were sinisterly cold.


    With Qin Yun''s present realm, he could easily see the merit and sins one had even without casting the Eye of Lightning.


    It was obvious that Roc Fiend had a dense Sinful Sanguine Halo! And beside him, Demon King Prestige Goat had a similarly dense Sinful Sanguine Halo!


    "These two sure are sure stained with heinous sins. The Demon King Prestige Goat''s sins are even several times higher than Hawk Fiend King Che Jie''s. However, he is much stronger as a eighth firmament Skydemon! He is able to withstand the heavenly punishment." Killing intent rose in Qin Yun. Faced with such heinous sinners, he thought of the countless innocents that died because of them, filling him with killing intent.


    However, the Three Realms were massive and there were just too many heinous sinners.


    It was not only Qin Yun. Even Golden Immortals and Buddhas could not deal with the many fiendcelestials as and when they wished. If too many Skyfiends were killed, the fiendish way would also feel the ''pinch.'' This might prompt a mighty figure like an Ancestral Fiend into action.


    The fiends once had an extremely brutal Ancestral Fiend. As he was overly brutal, he consumed and destroyed one world after another, eventually forcing the Dao Ancestor and Buddhist Ancestor to take action personally!


    Therefore¡­


    No one could do anything as they wished!


    There was a check and balance system where both sides feared each other!


    For instance, Qin Yun might kill a few eighth or ninth firmament Skyfiends and it would be considered a normal conflict. But if he were to kill something like fifty? That would be considered a massacre. The fiends'' Ancestral Fiend would not sit idle. It was even possible that a mighty figure would appear to personally deal with Qin Yun.


    By the same reasoning!


    If any Skyfiend were to kill fifty eighth or ninth firmament Skyimmortal, the Daoist''s Golden Immortal mighty figures would also take action.


    "The stronger one is, the more scum can be wiped out," thought Qin Yun.


    "Are you Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun?" From afar, Goat Demon''s voice resounded. Roc Fiend stood silently by his side.


    "Demon King Prestige Goat, General Roc Fiend," said Qin Yun. "I never expected to see the two of you here."


    One was an eighth firmament Skydemon and the other was an eighth firmament Skyfiend.


    General Roc Fiend was even a Skyfiend that cultivated his body. To Qin Yun, the difficulty of fighting him was above Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s. After all, Qin Yun had the advantage over Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s style of fighting.


    As for Demon King Prestige Goat? He was adept at Dharma spells. The level of threat he imposed was inferior to Old Fiend Fire Puppet.


    Therefore¡­


    Qin Yun found the sudden appearance of the two challenging.


    "Qin Yun, might I ask what you are here for?" said Prestige Goat with a smile.


    "To kill a fiend." Qin Yun looked into the distance as his voice similarly reverberated through the sky.


    Roc Fiend''s expression changed slightly when he heard that. His eyes shimmered with a ferocious glint. Prestige Goat''s expression changed, but he still said loudly, "Qin Yun, many of your fellow Green Touring Palace disciples are demons. Come to speak of it, you and I were fated to meet. If you leave on account of me, I''ll compensate you with handsome rewards. If not, don''t blame me for being heartless."


    "Are you helping the fiends?" Qin Yun asked.


    "What''s the big deal with befriending a few Skyfiends? There are countless Skyfiends in the Three Realms. I can''t be at odds with every one of them," said Prestige Goat with a smirk.


    "To actually sound so justified in befriending Skyfiends, there are truly many scum among the demons." Qin Yun was secretly furious.


    Most fiends had heinous sins.


    And among the Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, Magi, and Dragon race, there were countless cultivators. It was impossible for all of them to be untainted. There were a small minority of them with heinous sins. But they would suffer internal punishment from their respective factions. Even the Heavenly Courts had the Heavenly rules to mete out punishment.


    As for demons, they produced many fiends. Demons were, at the very least, accustomed to sin.


    This was because demons were born accustomed to the rule of survival of fittest! Since they had so much internal conflict, it was common for demons to have heinous sins.


    Therefore, there was a reason why the other two lineages of Daoism ostracized the demons.


    There were too many demons with savage characters.


    "Qin Yun, are you not giving me face?" said Prestige Goat with a frown.


    "Give you face? Who do you think you are?" said Qin Yun coldly. Someone with a full Sinful Sanguine Halo actually wanted him to give face?


    Prestige Goat fumed when he heard that. He could not help but gnash his teeth as his expression turned savage. He said with a hideous smile, "Very good, so many of the tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples have died, and it seems there will be another one added to the count today."


    "You should have been this straightforward from the beginning!" Roc Fiend laughed out loud. "Kill!"


    Boom!


    He spread his wings as he swooped at Qin Yun.


    "Try my Water Fire Eye Spell!" Prestige Goat eyes shot out two beams, one with a fire beam and the other a water beam. They transformed into two wyrms that streaked across the sky towards Qin Yun.


    "Do you have what it takes?"


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes as he faced the two.


    Boom!


    Starlight emitted from his body as he stirred the boundless stellar forces from the cosmos. The stellar forces descended straight upon him in obstreperous fashion. 360 divine swords formed from the starlight around him! The starlight encompassed fifteen hundred kilometers around him.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm at the initial success stage could encompass fifteen hundred kilometers with a mere thought.


    "Oh?" Roc Fiend, who was flying close by, suddenly felt his body sink. it felt like he was carrying a divine mountain in the Heavenly realm. His flying speed rapidly reduced as he looked at the surrounding dense starlight that was pressing down on him. He also noticed the 360 Swords of Stellar Light floating around Qin Yun and could not help but recall a legendary divine power.


    "The great divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm?" Roc Fiend''s expression changed drastically. "Oh no!"


    "It''s the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. The great divine power Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm of His Majesty, the Celestial Thearch!" Prestige Goat''s eyes seemed to crack. "Green Touring Palace has the cultivation Dharmic formulation of this great divine power. I never expected Qin Yun to master it."


    The both of them were very aware of how terrifying the great divine power was!


    "Die!" Qin Yun looked coldly at them.


    Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu¡­


    The dense Swords of Stellar Light flew over en masse. As they shot through the cosmos, all the array formations and outcrops were reduced to dust, instantly inundating Roc Fiend and the distant Prestige Goat.

 482 A Golden Thread

    Chapter 482: A Golden Thread


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Under the control of a sword immortal like Qin Yun, the Swords of Stellar Light blotted out the sky and took on a mystical presence when matched with sword moves. The swords assaulted Roc Fiend and Prestige Goat relentlessly.


    "Oh?" In midair, Roc Fiend first flapped his winds to form a squall and sweep away the Swords of Stellar Light.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The squall was rapidly abated by the sword flashes, alarming Roc Fiend. "What powerful sword flashes!" He immediately wrapped his wings around himself, and no matter how the Swords of Stellar Light stabbed at his wings, they only managed to chip away some of his feathers. His wings quickly regenerated new feathers.


    "What a powerful body. Those who specialize in cultivating their bodies are truly troublesome," thought Qin Yun when he saw this.


    And elsewhere.


    Prestige Goat did not have Roc Fiend''s confidence. He did not dare to try withstanding the numerous Swords of Stellar Light. His body was only considered normal. After all, the cultivating one''s body became harder at later stages. A living body was very different from Dharma treasures after all. The improvement of an Intrinsic Dharma treasure was relatively easy but building a strong a body involved the tendons, bones, organs, and other parts of the body. Even the Essence Soul had to fuse as one with the body. Improving them together was extremely difficult. When Prestige Goat saw the overwhelming Swords of Stellar Light surge at him, he immediately summoned the water and fire wyrms back.


    "Whoosh~" The water and fire wyrms wound around Prestige Goat''s body.


    Regardless of how the Swords of Stellar Light attacked, the water and fire wyrms only quivered, managing to withstand the assault.


    "What an impressive junior. You managed to master such a great divine power." Roc Fiend spread his wings and extended his claw as he suddenly expanded in size. The gigantic roc claw ripped through the void as it came bearing down on Qin Yun.


    "Seal!"


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    The sixty Swords of Stellar Light that stayed to guard the area around his body instantly transformed into a Heavenly Cycle sword array.


    The gigantic roc claw struck the Heavenly Cycle sword array, producing ripples in it. However, the Heavenly Cycle sword array stabilized almost immediately.


    "Rip!" "Whoosh!"


    The two gigantic roc claws pounded the barrier from above, and under its mighty blows, the Heavenly Cycle sword array was made to tremble.


    "Go!" Qin Yun released his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out.


    The blurry sword flash seemed to be laced with a mist as it tore through the heaven and earth.


    It sliced straight at Roc Fiend.


    Roc Fiend was well aware of the threat as he waved his wings to block it.


    The mist-like sword flash sliced Roc Fiend''s wings, immediately tearing open a wound through his feathers, causing blood to splatter.


    "You actually injured me?" Roc Fiend exclaimed but showed no fear. This bit of damage could be healed rapidly, and indeed in a few seconds, he had recovered completely.


    "Fighting one who cultivated a physical body to this realm is indeed difficult." Qin Yun''s mind immediately stirred as the Misty Rain Sword flashed, striking against the distant Prestige Goat''s water and fire wyrms'' bodies. Bam! Bam! Bam¡ªThe Misty Rain Sword''s might was too terrifying as blasts were generated across the water and fire wyrms'' bodies, making them tremble so vigorously that it seemed they were about to collapse on themselves.


    "What a powerful flying sword." Prestige Goat was alarmed.


    Now, Qin Yun''s great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, and his Intrinsic Flying Sword could produce might that was on the level of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm was more inclined towards a domain, allowing it for area-of-effect attacks and defense. In contrast, it was a more well-rounded power.


    As for the Intrinsic Flying Sword, there was only one! However, it was stronger!


    For many immortals and fiends, most preferred to possess a great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. Something that, when cast, would greatly suppress the enemy''s speed, strength, and general ability.


    "This Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm represses me in every aspect. It drastically reduces my speed and makes it so I''m only able to deliver seventy percent of my strength." Roc Fiend felt the heavy starlight on his body and felt rather indignant. He sent a voice transmission, "Brother Goat, help me hold back his Intrinsic Flying Sword. I''ll find an opportunity to kill him. I want to let this Qin Yun know how powerful we old folks are!"


    "Are you confident that you can kill him?" Prestige Goat was delighted.


    "About fifty percent or so," said Roc Fiend.


    "Alright." Prestige Goat waved his hand again, sending two Numinous treasure chains out. This pair of chains that emitted a cold, sinister aura naturally circled the water and fire wyrms. Then, the wyrms worked together to hold back Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword and the numerous Swords of Stellar Light unleashed an relentless barrage of attacks at Prestige Goat.


    Among the three enemies, Old Fiend Fire Puppet was untouchable as he was hiding in the Earth Fire Hall. Roc Fiend''s body was too powerful, making Prestige Goat the easiest to deal with.


    "Hmph." Roc Fiend opened his sharp beak.


    Shoo!


    A golden thread shot out at an astonishing speed, one far greater than that of Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. It stabbed Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle sword array in nearly an instant.


    With an extremely weak poof, the Heavenly Cycle sword array formed by sixty Swords of Stellar Light was penetrated. Immediately following that, the golden thread stabbed Qin Yun''s body.


    "No good." At the instant his Heavenly Cycle sword array was penetrated, Qin Yun knew that things had gone awry. However, the golden thread was too fast. Before he had the chance to cast any sort of defensive move, it had stabbed his body.


    "Hum¨C"


    The surface of Qin Yun''s robes suffused a layer of starlight when the golden thread stabbed at him.


    It was a set of starlight robes!


    Great divine power¡ªHeavenly Cycle Stellar Robes!


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes were two great divine powers at the same level. Unlike the various means available to the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes only had one purpose¡ªbody protection! As it was its only use, it was very good at protecting his body!


    Qin Yun had done the comparison.


    In terms of protecting his body, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes was his strongest technique, much stronger than casting Cyclic Sword Flash with his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Of course, this was because of Qin Yun''s overly weak Dharmic powers. That naturally caused the might of his Intrinsic Flying Sword to also be weaker.


    "Pew~" The golden thread bored into Qin Yun''s body, but the starlight robe was extremely robust, completely fending off the golden thread.


    Qin Yun could now see the golden thread clearly. It was a very strange metallic thread. Its surface was layered with patterns.


    "Oh?"


    Roc Fiend immediately had a thought when he saw this.


    Whoosh.


    The golden thread immediately flew back into Roc Fiend''s mouth in a flash, easily tearing through the sword array formed from sixty Swords of Stellar Light.


    "My Heavenly Cycle sword array was so easily cracked?" thought Qin Yun. "What a powerful golden thread. I wonder what treasure it is."


    "You even mastered His Majesty, Celestial Thearch''s, other great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes?" The distant Prestige Goat was alarmed and enraged. Roc Fiend was staring coldly at Qin Yun.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes was extremely effective at body protection.


    "He is a Green Touring Palace disciple. It''s expected he will have powerful Dao talismans protecting him. However, those are one-use items," said Roc Fiend via voice transmission. "I originally believed that we could kill him after we expended a protective Dao talisman or two of his. I never expected him to also cultivate in the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes. This will be trouble."


    "It appears this Qin Yun has cultivated the great divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, to the initial success realm. I won''t be able to crack it either," said Prestige Goat with a voice transmission.


    "However, the divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, can only be used to protect one''s body, and has no offensive capabilities. Therefore, as long as we trap him, we can come up with a way to take him down," said Roc Fiend via a voice transmission.


    "Trap him?" Prestige Goat said with a voice transmission. "How so?"


    "It would require Brother Fire Puppet to join forces with us." Roc Fiend also sent a voice transmission to Old Fiend Fire Puppet in the Earth Fire Hall.


    Just as they were fending off Qin Yun''s swords and plotting something, Qin Yun directed the Misty Rain Sword and the Swords of Stellar Light to attack the seemingly easiest Prestige Goat. However, the Yin Water Chains he released complemented the water and fire wyrms, allowing him a stubborn yet solid defense.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Qin Yun cast one move after another with his flying sword and Swords of Stellar Light. Gradually, the might increased.


    It was like how waves turned more tumultuous in the seas.


    This was the trend.


    The trend of Qin Yun''s Sword Dao!


    Qin Yun had deliberately held his strength back at first, waiting for the trend to turn stronger and clearer until it reached a maximum.


    "It''s now." The Misty Rain Sword led the numerous Swords of Stellar Light and suddenly stabbed at the fire wyrm. Pfft¡ª


    This time, it was directly penetrated.


    Many of the Swords of Stellar Light tore through the obstruction of the Yin Water Chains. As for the Misty Rain Sword, it stabbed straight into Prestige Goat''s chest. Under the terrifying Sword Qi''s wanton destruction, Prestige Goat exploded in gruesome fashion.


    "Whoosh." The exploded body parts flashed with a stream of light, flying to distant spots. The head flew helplessly, showing the expression of the pale-faced Prestige Goat. He looked at Qin Yun with a hint of horror in his eyes.

 483 Rosa Multiflora Sword Char

    Chapter 483: Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Inside the Earth Fire Hall.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet was drawing a runic pattern on the arm of the Grand Magus''s corpse while he said via voice transmission, "Both of you hold him back for a moment. Let me finish this runic pattern on the puppet''s arm. This way, the effects on the puppet will be minimized even if I have to stop midway."


    "Alright, the both of us shall hold him back for now," said Roc Fiend via voice transmission.


    "Oh no!"


    But at that moment, Prestige Goat suddenly bellowed angrily in the voice transmission. There was even a hint of panic. "Old Fiend Fire Puppet! Quickly come out! If you don''t, I''m not going to stay a moment longer! This Qin Yun is here for you!"


    "You can''t withstand his flying sword?" Old Fiend Fire Puppet, who was drawing the runic pattern, was constantly keeping himself abreast of the situation outside. He was also alarmed. "Alright, I''m coming out now. Don''t worry. I can forgo the commission for the puppet refinement this time. You and Roc Fiend can each get half of whatever spoils of war are available when Qin Yun is killed."


    Only then was Prestige Goat slightly satisfied.


    For Qin Yun to possess such strength, he likely had quite a few good treasures on him. If Prestige Goat received half of the spoils of war, he believed that it would not only make up for his losses, he would even profit from it.


    "Qin Yun, you want to kill me? Although I have an ordinary body, you are far from capable of killing me," Prestige Goat thought inwardly. Simultaneously, he controlled the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Yin Water Chains and cast the Water Fire Eye Spell. This was also his most powerful Dharma spell, his best for attacking enemies. But this time, he was forced to use it for self-preservation.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun tore through Prestige Goat''s defense and destroyed his body, Qin Yun was delighted despite the fact that Prestige Goat re-materialized his body.


    Slaying with a simple strike?


    Qin Yun did not have such extravagant hopes.


    An eighth firmament Skydemon was not that easily destroyed.


    "I have a chance of killing him by cracking his Dharma treasure and Dharma spell. Hmph, it looks like he shall get the first taste of the death blow I planned for Old Fiend Fire Puppet." Qin Yun was naturally well prepared for his mission. He flipped his hand, and a pill suffusing three colors on its surface appeared in his palm. The pill flew into his mouth and rapidly melted. The Immortal Pill''s powers rapidly permeated his Essence Soul.


    Qin Yun''s gaze seemed to turn corporeal while his Essence Soul turned ethereal. His mental processing speed also increased by more than a hundred times.


    "Kill!"


    The Misty Rain Sword did not lose any of its might as it advanced towards the distant Prestige Goat.


    "This again?" Prestige Goat immediately flew up. His body was surrounded and protected by the water and fire wyrms, as well as the Yin Water Chains. "Old Fiend Fire Puppet, aren''t you going to begin taking action?"


    "I''m coming!"


    The entire Fire Fiend Mountain quaked.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Gigantic arms stretched out from deep underground as puppets crawled out one after another. This scene stunned all the Skyfiends and fiendcelestials that resided in Fire Fiend Mountain. All of them rapidly flew into the distance.


    "What''s happening!?"


    "Why is the commotion getting more intense?"


    These Skyfiends and fiendcelestials flew into the distance and watched from afar.


    They could barely make out Roc Fiend, Prestige Goat, and Qin Yun''s figures, as well as the gigantic puppets that crawled out from underground. These puppets had might matching that of an eighth or ninth firmament Skyfiend. However, compared to experts like Qin Yun, Roc Fiend, and company, they appeared rather clumsy. However, they made up for that with sheer numbers. A total of twelve powerful puppets was enough to give other ninth firmament Skyimmortals a headache when they joined forces.


    "Old Fiend Fire Puppet is coming out?" Qin Yun noticed the puppet army rising the glint in his eyes remained calm.


    "Whoosh."


    His sword tore through the water and fire wyrms before penetrating Prestige Goat''s body once again.


    At the instant his body was reduced to pieces, Prestige Goat had a hideous expression on his face. He quickly sent a voice transmission. "Old Fiend Fire Puppet, I''ll really die once I''m killed another seven times. Get those puppets of yours to move faster!"


    "You no longer have a chance." Qin Yun''s cold voice resounded in the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s vicinity.


    Boom!


    At the moment the Misty Rain Sword tore through the water and fire wyrms and ripped apart the Prestige Goat''s body, three hundred Swords of Stellar Light, which followed closely behind, seemed to bloom like a flower in an extremely resplendent manner. The flower completely enveloped Prestige Goat''s disintegrated body, with Prestige Goat right at the location of the flower''s pistil! Furthermore, the gigantic flower was spinning constantly with the three hundred swords as the petals.


    "Bam!" Prestige Goat, who had transformed into a stream of light to fly away, failed to escape the flower world no matter how he tried, as though he was trapped in a gigantic maze.


    The three hundred flower petals moved constantly, grinding the area inside without end.


    "Bam!" Prestige Goat failed to charge out, causing his body to be ground to bits once again.


    "What move is this?" Prestige Goat turned anxious. He was trapped in a gigantic flower maze while his supreme-grade Yin Water Chains were still outside. He controlled it to bind the flower world, but the flower world easily withstood its trammeling as it continued spinning.


    Roc Fiend was puzzled as well. He could not recognize the move.


    "It''s the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart!" Old Fiend Fire Puppet sent an urgent voice transmission. "It''s Emperor Polestar''s Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart! I''ve seen Emperor Polestar cast it before. It''s a terrifying sword art."


    "Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart?" Prestige Goat was alarmed.


    "The Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart that many claim to rank first among all sword arts in the Three Realms?" Roc Fiend was also astonished.


    Emperor Polestar was a figure of lofty nature in the Three Realms.


    He was one of the Four Guides of the Daoist pantheon, lord of the stars.


    Back when Qin Yun was choosing Sword Dao manuals in Green Touring Palace, five of them were Golden Immortal level manuals. Among them, the Five Elemental Sword Sutra and the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart were of higher grade, while the other three were much weaker.


    However, Qin Yun still chose the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art to focus primarily on. It was because the more powerful Five Elemental Sword Sutra and Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart were very difficult to cultivate in.


    Using the Five Elemental Sword Sutra as an example, the world was nearly inseparable from the Five Directions and Five Elements. To attain phenomenal success in it, one had to have extremely deep insights into the Five Directions and Five Elements. It was too multifarious¡­ When Qin Yun read the manual, he felt that not only was talent needed to succeed in mastering it, he would need a long period of time to accumulate in the insights. It was also not very suitable for his Sword Dao.


    The Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart was about calculating to the extreme. It demanded a great deal of inference on the user. The moment the sword art was released, the enemy would seem to fall into a massive trap. Resistance was futile, with only death as an option.


    The requirement was very high.


    However, as it suited portions of Qin Yun''s cultivation, he chose it as a secondary focus.


    Usually, he would gain insights from pondering over it, but the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart''s requirements for inference and calculation were very high. Qin Yun had to consume an Immortal Pill to speed up his mental processes before he could deliver the full might of the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart.


    "Whoosh~" Once one was trapped in the flower maze, one would be constantly ground to death by the flower petal sword flashes.


    "I have learned two powerful moves from the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart. They are ''A World in a Flower'' and ''Stellar Revolution.'' They are both useful to my Sword Dao," thought Qin Yun. "And this attack happens to be A World in a Flower."


    "No."


    Prestige Goat activated another life-preservation Dao talisman he clasped in his hand.


    Immediately, a layer of golden light enveloped him as he cast his Water Fire Eye Spell, but the flower world naturally wore it down by spinning.


    "Brother Roc Fiend, quick save me!" said Prestige Goat urgently.


    "Alright." Roc Fiend opened his mouth, shooting out the golden thread from his mouth, straight for Prestige Goat.


    "Hua!"


    A wisp of misty rain intercepted the golden thread.


    The golden thread was indeed powerful, but so was Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword since it had some of the might of a Connate Numinous treasure. With a sword immortal like Qin Yun controlling it, the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s might allowed it to completely fend off the golden thread in a mystical manner.


    "Demon King Prestige Goat, don''t worry." Old Fiend Fire Puppet said via voice transmission. At the same time, the nearest lava giant puppet swatted its palm over to grab at the spinning flower sword flash.


    Bam!


    The force of the somewhat clumsy grab was easily annulled by the gigantic flower world''s spinning.


    "No! No!" Prestige Goat, who was trapped inside, was seeing the golden light on his body''s surface dissipate from the grinding.


    Prestige Goat''s body was reduced to pieces once again.


    Hum!


    The remnant Dharmic powers transformed into a stream of light as he flew frantically like a frightened animal.


    However, the spinning flower petal sword flashes attacked it again and again.


    The stream of light became weaker and weaker.


    He previously estimated that he could withstand seven strikes, but in fact, he managed to survive more than ten strikes inside the flower petal world before being pushed to the brink of destruction.


    "Spare me! Qin Yun, Sword Immortal Qin! Please spare me!" Prestige Goat''s face surfaced from the stream of light as he gave a pleading look. "Please spare my life."


    However, Qin Yun watched calmly.


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    Prestige Goat gave an indignant roar of anger before he was finally wiped out by the flower world.


    Eighth firmament Skydemon, Demon King Prestige Goat, was dead! He died at the hands of Great Chang world''s Qin Yun!

 484 The Great Battles Curtain Call

    Chapter 484: The Great Battle''s Curtain Call


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet found it unbelievable.


    An eighth firmament Skydemon was considered a demon king of an area in the Three Realms! In situations where Sagedemon mighty figures were unable to make an appearance, demons that reached the seventh firmament were considered demon leaders of a region, gaining the title of Demon King. Examples were Demon King Prestige Goat and Demon King Bear Mountain. Yet, one who had earned the title of Demon King had died in the Dragon Mountain world!


    Furthermore, he had lost his life while joining forces with Roc Fiend.


    "You killed Prestige Goat?" Roc Fiend glared at Qin Yun, his eyes filled with bloodlust and anger. Prestige Goat had been his lifelong buddy.


    "This Qin Yun is actually quite strong. If not for Roc Fiend and Demon King Prestige Goat, I would have had to fight him one on one¡­" Old Fiend Fire Puppet, who was controlling the puppets remotely from inside the Earth Fire Hall, felt his heart jolt. "A great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm can completely repress me. I might not even be as capable as Prestige Goat in melee combat. If I really have to fight him one on one, I''ll probably share the same outcome as Prestige Goat!"


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet was shuddering in fear!


    The sense of horror lingered!


    He was truly lucky!


    He was the one who nearly died.


    "This Essence Soul sword immortal might not be full of conspicuous strength, but he truly came to the Dragon Mountain world prepared to kill me." Old Fiend Fire Puppet was alarmed. "How long has he been cultivating? If this continues, does he plan to cultivate in enough divine powers as an Essence Soul to match a mighty figure?"


    There were no lack of instances in the Three Realms of cultivators staying in the Essence Soul realm to cultivate in great divine powers.


    The most powerful Buddhist Arhats were all in the Arhat realms, but they had strength that matched that of Buddha.


    The Daoists also had a few Earth Immortals, illustrious mighty figures in the Three Realms.


    ¡­


    As Old Fiend Fire Puppet was still reeling in fear, Qin Yun did not stop at all.


    "Old Fiend Fire Puppet, meet your maker!" Qin Yun looked at the distant Earth Fire Hall.


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword instantly transformed into a blinding sword flash.


    The sword flash was resplendent, looking as though it would cleave apart the heaven and earth.


    It had an earth-shattering might that could render the world asunder.


    "Boom!" Although the Earth Fire Hall had layers of array formations, they shattered under Qin Yun''s terrifying strike.


    While lots of rubble flew wantonly, a black beam of light flashed as it escaped out of the Earth Fire Hall in the direction of Roc Fiend.


    "Brother Fire Puppet, let''s join forces to think of a way to kill him." Roc Fiend said via voice transmission, his voice filled with hate.


    "Flee, flee quickly," was Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s response.


    "What?" Roc Fiend was alarmed.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet had long activated twelve puppets to protect him. He quickly said via voice transmission, "Prestige Goat was already killed even when he joined forces with you! This Qin Yun represses even me! Now that his stellar forces permeate a region fifteen hundred kilometers around us, my puppets are restrained, weakening them greatly. Just half of his 360 stellar swords is enough to hold back my puppets. Without my puppets, I''m inferior to Prestige Goat!"


    "You¡­" Roc Fiend was feeling very disgruntled.


    He was not afraid.


    Whether it was his flying means, his physical ability, or moves, he had enough abilities to make him in no way afraid of Qin Yun.


    "Quickly help me escape," urged Old Fiend Fire Puppet frantically. "Do you think you can crack his protective great divine power?"


    Roc Fiend was stunned.


    Cracking the protective great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes was indeed very difficult.


    Previously, he believed that he might have a chance of cracking the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes and killing Qin Yun by combining forces with Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s twelve puppets! But it was clear that Old Fiend Fire Puppet was unwilling to take that risk.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet was extremely apprehensive. All he wanted was to flee! Roc Fiend knew he alone could do nothing to Qin Yun.


    "Kill!"


    The Misty Rain Sword and the numerous Swords of Stellar Light caught up to them once again and enveloped them.


    The twelve puppets fought valiantly to fend them off.


    "Quick, quick! If you do not take me with you, I''ll be fleeing by myself. I''ll be able to escape by wasting a life preservation item or two and self-destructing a few puppets at worst," said Old Fiend Fire Puppet frantically. "If that happens, all my losses will be on you. If Fiend Supremacy learns of it, he will definitely not treat your negligence lightly."


    "Fine, fine, fine. I''ll take you with me." Roc Fiend grabbed Old Fiend Fire Puppet.


    "Sou!"


    Roc Fiend held Old Fiend Fire Puppet as his wings flapped. Instantly, they soared up into the sky.


    Even with the stellar forces repressing them, they still flew at an extremely fast speed. There were twelve puppets behind them, protecting their retreat.


    "What a fast speed." Qin Yun also charged into the sky as he began pursuit. However, he could only watch helplessly as Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet tore through the clouds. Only his Intrinsic Flying Sword and Swords of Stellar Light were able to penetrate the clouds to continue the pursuit.


    "I heard that the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane walls are difficult to crack," said Old Fiend Fire Puppet via voice transmission. They soon arrived at the membrane walls of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    "Don''t worry." Roc Fiend opened his mouth.


    Whoosh.


    A golden thread flashed, pricking a hole in the extremely resilient Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall. They charged out through the hole as the twelve puppets held back the Misty Rain Sword and Swords of Stellar Light that flew behind them. They were naturally a lot slower.


    "The both of them fled?" When Qin Yun saw this, he turned his sights on the twelve puppets. "These puppets can forget about escaping."


    "Seal!"


    The Misty Rain Sword and the numerous Swords of Stellar Light which were attempting to pursue Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet switched targets to the twelve puppets.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    A flower bloomed as the sword flash flower petals spun.


    The massive flower world trapped the twelve puppets completely.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The twelve puppets were extremely ferocious as they assaulted the flower world relentlessly.


    However, as the most brilliant sword art in the Three Realms, the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart fought might with calculation. Even if the enemy used their full strength, their power would be constantly weakened by the spinning flower world, greatly reducing the damage received.


    This strike''s might could become Qin Yun''s killer blow because, firstly, the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart was indeed powerful; and secondly, it was cast with 360 Swords of Stellar Light! The 360 Swords of Stellar Light formed by the initial success of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm were extraordinary to begin with. Using them to cast the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart was naturally an excellent combination.


    "What about your puppets?" Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet had flown a great distance away as they looked back inside the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s face was grim. "What can I do about it?"


    "Boom!"


    Trapped inside the flower world, one of the twelve puppets with an ox head roared angrily as it exploded with a boom. It instantly exceeded what the flower world could bear. With the boom, the sword flash petals were sent flying away in chaos. The explosion''s blast blew away more than fifty kilometers around, tearing through even the clouds below. Even a portion of Qin Yun''s 360 Swords of Stellar Light were dissipated as a result.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The remaining eleven puppets moved at a stunning speed as they continued flying high into the sky, straight for the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall.


    "Crack." With the golden thread pricking open the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall from the outside, the eleven puppets escaped out of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    Qin Yun, who was chasing from below, was too slow.


    "I always believed that my flying speed was sufficiently fast, but compared to Roc Fiend or even these guardian puppets, who are adept at flying, I''m still far inferior. If I had engaged in Sword Kinesis Flight with my Intrinsic Flying Sword¡­ perhaps I might reach about seventy to eighty percent of the twelve puppets'' speed?" thought Qin Yun. "However, I will still be inferior to Roc Fiend."


    Roc Fiend was just too fast. In a blink of an eye, he had fled the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm with Old Fiend Fire Puppet.


    "A true ninth firmament sword immortal is faster with Sword Kinesis Flight. Even if they might not be faster than Roc Fiend, they would be able to surpass these guardian puppets. Unfortunately, my Dharmic powers are still too weak," thought Qin Yun.


    Far away, Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet were standing shoulder to shoulder. Old Fiend Fire Puppet waved his hand as the eleven puppets rapidly shrank and flew into his sleeve.


    "What a pity. One puppet was wasted," said Roc Fiend.


    "If I had not fled as fast as I did, the one being trapped in that flower world wouldn''t be the puppets but me." Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s eyes turned cold. "I was previously not concerned with this Essence Soul sword immortal who created a new sword immortal lineage in the Three Realms, but I never expected¡­ an Essence Soul sword immortal would be able to make me suffer such dire losses. I had reconstructed Dragon Mountain world for so long, putting in so much effort to make it suit the refinement of puppets. Now, I have to give it up."


    "Let''s go," said Roc Fiend. "This Qin Yun is already so strong at the Essence Soul realm. He will only get stronger in the future. There''s no chance for revenge even if you wanted it."


    Old Fiend Fire Puppet turned aggrieved hearing that.


    "Can''t you say something nice?"


    "Let''s go." Roc Fiend couldn''t be bothered to speak further. Prestige Goat''s death displeased him greatly. He grabbed Old Fiend Fire Puppet¡ª


    Sou!


    They rapidly flew into the stars and, with a Void Transference, vanished.


    Qin Yun, who was standing amid the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, saw this.


    His target, Old Fiend Fire Puppet, had managed to escape!


    "There were too many unforeseen circumstances. I never expected Roc Fiend and Prestige Goat Demon King to be here as well," thought Qin Yun.

 485 Entering Star Cluster Hall

    Chapter 485: Entering Star Cluster Hall


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Following that, Qin Yun looked down. His Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm had enveloped the area, so he was acutely aware of every nearby Skyfiends'' and fiendcelestials'' move.


    "They''ve fled! General Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet have fled!"


    "I pleaded with General Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet via voice transmission, but they completely ignored me."


    "They were only trying to keep themselves alive. Why would they care about us?"


    The group of Skyfiends had long scattered in a bid to escape.


    Qin Yun gradually landed as he overlooked the area.


    "Obliterate."


    He gave this command with a thought.


    The stellar forces pressed down like a mountain.


    The fiendcelestials and even Skyfiends immediately disintegrated under the pressure of the stellar forces, vanishing to nothingness. Only five fiendcelestials who had committed very few sins as well as eight Skyfiends who managed to withstand the stellar forces remained alive.


    "This¡­"


    The large group of Skyfiends that scattered were communicating via voice transmission as they fled, but before they could get far, they watched helplessly as some of their fellows were pulverized under the stellar light!


    "There are actually eight Skyfiends that managed to withstand my stellar forces'' pressure. Six of them are third firmament Skyfiends who specialize in cultivating their bodies. Two of them are fifth or sixth firmament Skyfiends," thought Qin Yun.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    These eight Skyfiends fled frantically.


    Finally, there was one Skyfiend that fled to the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall.


    "Open up! Open!" The Skyfiends tried their best to attack the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall but failed to even stir it.


    As it was, even two or three of Old Fiend Fire Puppet''s twelve puppets would not be able to crack open the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s membrane wall! Seventh or eighth firmament Skyfiends that did not have powerful enough attacks could do nothing to it, much less the remnant eight Skyfiends.


    "Go!" Qin Yun casually sent out eight Swords of Stellar Light.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The eight Swords of Stellar Light caught up to the eight Skyfiends, and when they came into contact with them, the light in their eyes was extinguished as they died on the spot, leaving behind shocked-looking corpse.


    Clearly, none of these Skyfiends were like Kuifu who could fight someone beyond their level.


    Those that could fight beyond their level like Empyrean Lord Kuifu, Daoist Divine Firmament Ancestral Master Zhang, and Qin Yun were ultimately rare. They typically had a illustrious background.


    Kuifu was a child of a big family clan in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and he had cultivated in powerful divine powers.


    Ancestral Master Zhang had created a Lightning Dharma for himself. His realm was long at the pinnacle of Skyimmortals.


    Qin Yun''s realm was already at the late stages of the Skyimmortal realm. He was not too far away from the pinnacle bottleneck and he had also attained initial success in the two great divine powers.


    "Retrieve." Using the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, he easily collected all the treasures, including the Skyfiend corpses, in the Dragon Mountain world. They rapidly tore through the sky towards Qin Yun and he put them away with a wave of his hand.


    ¡­


    Dragon Mountain world. Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake.


    Qin Yun stood by the side of the lake. As he looked at it, he flipped his hand to produce an urn.


    "Ba Yun, this is the Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake, your homeworld." Qin Yun overturned the urn and let the ashes fly out. With gentle guidance from Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers, the ashes scattered into the calm surface of the Thousand Revolutions Dragon Lake, stirring up several ripples.


    Qin Yun watched this play out in front of his very eyes.


    Following that, he triggered his disciple mark. The familiar blurry light descended upon Qin Yun before he vanished, returning him back to the Green Touring Palace.


    The entire Dragon Mountain world was now in a state of unprecedented silence.


    Nearly all the fiendcelestials there were dead, leaving behind a minute number who had luckily survived due to the low number of sins they had.


    The curtains closed fully on this massive war.


    The battle between four entities with strength above that of seventh firmament Skyimmortals.


    One against three.


    Qin Yun battled Old Fiend Fire Puppet, General Roc Fiend, and Demon King Prestige Goat.


    Qin Yun won!


    Prestige Goat perished! Old Fiend Fire Puppet and Roc Fiend only escaped by sacrificing a guardian puppet. Nearly all the fiendcelestials in Dragon Mountain world perished.


    News of this battle was bound to spread throughout the Effulgent dominion. Qin Yun had managed to win despite fighting one against three. It was something that would catch the attention of various entities in the Effulgent dominion.


    ******


    Qin Yun returned to Green Touring Palace immediately and went to Fiend Vanquishment Hall.


    He faced the mirror as an elder''s image appeared on its surface.


    "Senior, I just completed the second round of tests," said Qin Yun politely.


    "That fast?" The elder smiled in surprise. "I found your speed slow for the first round of tests, but you didn''t take too long for the second round of tests. I wonder when you will pass the third round. However, there is no need for me to verify the third round."


    Qin Yun said immediately, "Only by attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit would one pass the third round of tests. In the Three Realms, how many people have attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit? I''m far from prepared."


    Attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit was indeed a distant goal.


    There were many in the Three Realms with extremely powerful combat strength, such as Yellow-robed Supremacy. They might have cultivated in great divine powers, used Connate Numinous treasures, cultivated powerful Dharmic formulations like sword immortals, or created a powerful Dharmic formulation for themselves¡­ They could fight Golden Immortals and Buddhas at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, but they were ultimately not mighty figures.


    By not being a mighty figure, they would not fully realize any ploys even if they were plotted against.


    It was how Yellow-robed Supremacy fell into his predicament!


    "Our Green Touring Palace has not given birth to a Golden Immortal in quite a while," said the elder with a smile. "I wish for the next one to be you. Oh, by the way, you said you passed the second test. Who did you kill?"


    "Prestige Goat Demon King. Slain in the Dragon Mountain world," said Qin Yun.


    "Let me verify it." The elder image on the mirror''s surface vanished. Scenes of Qin Yun casting the flower world to kill Demon King Prestige Goat appeared. To the side, Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet were trying their best to save him.


    "Alright."


    The elder appeared in the mirror and said with a smile, "I will send you to Star Cluster Hall."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    This was the greatest thing his master bestowed on disciples before attaining the Golden Immortal Dao fruit!


    "Whoosh~" A void passageway warped open as a mysterious palace appeared on the other end of it.


    Qin Yun knew that it was Star Cluster Hall.


    His senior brother, Daoist Divine Firmament, had also entered it once.


    Qin Yun took a step forward and entered the void passageway as he walked towards the mysterious palace.


    As he traveled through the void passageway, it naturally dissipated behind him. Qin Yun looked up at the palace and saw the three mystical words¡ªStar Cluster Hall. These mystical words contained the charms of the Dao.


    "Legend has it that Star Cluster Hall contains many of the most powerful treasures in the Three Realms. The Green Touring Palace disciples who enter do not need to choose. The most suitable treasure in Star Cluster Hall will fly in front of them. After obtaining this treasure, one typically experiences a great surge in strength," thought Qin Yun. "However, there is only one item per person."


    In the first round of tests, he had obtained the yellow-skinned calabash. There were many life-preservation items, rare and precious materials, as well as many Immortal Pills in it.


    As for the second round of tests, he would be bestowed with something on entry into Star Cluster Hall. Although it was only one item, it was a lot more valuable than an entire calabash full of rare things!


    "The treasures in there were placed there after Master did the selection."


    "I''ve even heard that a senior brother obtained a supreme-grade Numinous treasure from there. Its might was close to that of a Connate Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun.


    What was a supreme-grade Numinous treasure?


    Supreme-grade Numinous treasures were artifacts refined to the limit. What the Dao Ancestors refined were supreme-grade Numinous treasures.


    And further up were the Connate Numinous treasures and Merit Numinous treasures.


    However, as the pinnacle of artifact refinement, supreme-grade Numinous treasures did not necessarily mean that they were weaker than Connate Numinous treasures or Merit Numinous treasures.


    Connate Numinous treasures also had disparate differences.


    Among supreme-grade Numinous treasures, there were some which were very practical. If they had perfect synergy with an immortal or Buddha, the might released might even match that of a Connate Numinous treasure.


    "Apart from supreme-grade Numinous treasures, there are many rare items. Many of them are inexplicably powerful."


    "I wonder what I''ll get."


    Qin Yun immediately calmed his mind and stepped through the door to enter Star Cluster Hall.


    The moment he entered Star Cluster Hall, it felt like he had entered a starry space. Qin Yun looked up and saw twinkling stars above him. He could vaguely sense that each star was a precious treasure.


    These were all the treasured collection of the Dao Ancestor.


    "What''s the thing in here that suits me best?" Qin Yun suddenly sensed something as he looked into the distance high into the firmament roof. There, a dim star emitted a faint calling as it rapidly flew over and increased in size. The dim star gradually lit up and turned brighter as its aura turned stronger.


    It even slowly made Qin Yun feel a horrifying sense of sharpness.

 486 Connate Wonder sChaos Pure Golds

    Chapter 486: Connate Wonder ''Chaos Pure Gold''


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    News spread quickly in the Three Realms.


    Many demon kings immediately learned of Prestige Goat''s death. Soon, the happenings at Dragon Mountain world quickly spread through the Effulgent dominion.


    "Prestige Goat is dead? Junior Brother Qin killed him?"


    Green Touring Palace had many disciples, more than a hundred of which the number were demons from the Effulgent dominion. At that moment, several of them were gathered.


    "You still call him Junior Brother Qin? He is so ruthless towards us demons!" An ox demon spewed air from his nostrils as he grunted coldly, "Back then I heard that he killed a hawk demon and tree demon, but they were sixth firmament Skydemons. There are many of those in the Effulgent dominion, so it wasn''t a big deal! But now, he has killed Prestige Goat. There are a pathetic number of demons in the Effulgent dominion who have reached the seventh firmament Skydemon realm. Only a minority of us disciples of Green Touring Palace have broken through to the seventh firmament."


    "There are only about a hundred demons in the Effulgent dominion that have broken through to the seventh firmament and beyond. Now, one of them has been killed."


    "I heard that Junior Brother Qin went to the Dragon Mountain world to deal with Old Fiend Fire Puppet," said a white wolf demon. "Prestige Goat and Roc Fiend happened to be there, causing the fight to become one against three¡­ Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet sacrificed one puppet by self-destructing it to cover their escape. However, Brother Prestige Goat died as a result."


    "He won despite it being one against three? This Qin Yun really is powerful. But he''s just too ruthless towards us demons! Green Touring Palace has so many students, with nearly half of us being demons. Yet he showed no kindness." The ox demon was rather angry.


    "He''s already killed. What can you do?"


    "To think I befriended him on account of us both being from the Effulgent dominion. What a waste of my good wine!"


    ¡­


    Not far away, two human cultivators were playing chess.


    "Senior Brother Sa, did you hear about it? Junior Brother Qin won hands down despite fighting one against three. That strength of his sure is impressive," said an azure-robed Daoist with a smile.


    Senior Brother Sa was dressed in white robes as he sat there looking at the chess pieces. He replied with a smile, "As expected of the only person other than the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor to create a brand new sword immortal Dharmic formulation. Although he hasn''t cultivated for long, he has already shown his edge. It appears that it will not take long for this junior brother of mine to gain a high standing in the Three Realms."


    "But those demons are very displeased with Junior Brother Qin." The azure-robed Daoist moved another piece.


    "Ever since the demons went into decline after the Ancient Heavenly Courts'' destruction, the weaker the demon, the more united they become." Senior Brother Sa scoffed. "Why would Junior Brother Qin bother worrying about them? Besides, that Demon King Prestige Goat had committed heinous sins. He was in cahoots with Old Fiend Fire Puppet and even helped the two fiends, Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet, fight Qin Yun? His death is all on him!"


    "The demons of Green Touring Palace are still quite disciplined, too afraid of incurring any punishment from Master. Quite a number of those demons that fail to enter Green Touring Palace indeed act quite wantonly. Some of their sins are so heinous that they are in no way inferior to a Skyfiend''s! There are even some who openly trade with Skyfiends." The azure-robed Daoist shook his head as well.


    "Master set three rounds of tests and it was already made known that Skyfiends and those with heinous sins are to be slain." Senior Brother Sa chuckled but there was a cold glint in his eyes. "Clearly, Master has long announced that those with heinous sins deserve death! It''s only right that Junior Brother Qin killed them. It makes life easier for the people of the Efflugent Domain and also improves the light from providence that shines on our Green Touring Palace."


    The azure-robed Daoist nodded and added, "It''s only my guess, but I believe the demons won''t let the matter rest easily."


    "Why should we bother over such trivial matters? Junior Brother Qin will probably not be inferior to me in the future. He''s bound to be someone famous throughout the Effulgent dominion. Does he need to care about the barking of wretches?" scoffed Senior Brother Sa.


    "Senior Brother Sa, you think so highly of him?" the azure-robed Daoist was astonished.


    Senior Brother Sa''s name was Sa Xu.


    He was a disciple that Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure took in after the Heavenly Courts were established. Although he was temporarily trapped at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal bottleneck, he had managed to create the Lightning Dharma that was famous throughout the Three Realms¡ªHeavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma. He resembled Daoist Divine Firmament, both being men who created their own Lightning Dharma for cultivation! However, the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma he created had reached the ninth firmament and, when used by him, made his head-on combat strength match that of Golden Immortal and Buddha mighty figures.


    In terms of strength¡­ he was not within the top hundred disciples of the Green Touring Palace disciples, but he was definitely within the top two hundred.


    After all, Green Touring Palace had nearly a hundred Golden Immortals!


    Immediately following them were the Chaos Godfiends, Ancient Ominous Demons, and others. Many of them were older senior brothers and sisters who had come under Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure not long after Pangu''s separation of the heaven and earth. All of them had extraordinary backgrounds. By ranking in the top two hundred, Senior Brother Sa was already considered famous in the Three Realms. His fame was in no way inferior to that of Yellow-robed Supremacy''s.


    Senior Brother Sa was famous for one thing¡ª


    Abhorring evil!


    Countless fiends and great demons had perished under his Lightning Dharma.


    Many fellow Green Touring Palace disciples of demon heritage had once made things difficult for him, but he thought nothing of them!


    "I obviously think highly of them. I think quite highly of both the junior brothers from the Great Chang world," said Senior Brother Sa with a smile.


    ******


    News of Qin Yun''s victory despite fighting one against three, resulting in Demon King Prestige Goat''s death while Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet were sent retreating was rapidly spread.


    And in Star Cluster Hall.


    "It''s coming."


    Qin Yun looked up.


    A distant star rapidly flew over, its aura becoming stronger. The terrifying sense of sharpness left Qin Yun alarmed.


    "What potent might. After killing Prestige Goat, I took his supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Yin Water Chains. The might it exudes is already very powerful, but it doesn''t reach this terrifying level." Qin Yun waited in nervous anticipation.


    It closed in on him.


    "I can see it." Qin Yun saw an item wrapped in a halo of light. There were runic patterns swirling around the halo.


    Soon, it arrived in front of Qin Yun, floating in midair.


    Qin Yun stared at the item within the halo. It was a black piece of rock about half the size of a human! Its jagged surface shimmered in various spots. Even though the runic halo enveloped it, the stone continued emitting a sharp aura that left Qin Yun apprehensive.


    "What is this?" Qin Yun stretched out his hand to touch the runic halo. The moment he made contact, lots of information rapidly entered his brain. Qin Yun immediately understood what the black rock was and how to use it.


    The runic halo also dissipated completely, revealing a piece of black rock that was half the size of a human adult.


    With it being revealed, the sharp aura it emitted turned even more terrifying. It was as though knives were constantly slicing at its surroundings. Of course, Qin Yun had the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes and was naturally unafraid.


    "Connate Pure Gold?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. "I''ve heard that other senior brothers and sisters had obtained miraculous treasures in the Star Cluster Hall. Some of them obtain supreme-grade Numinous treasures that suit them the best! Others obtain wonders, but I''m getting a Connate Wonder, Chaos Pure Gold? My luck is that good?"


    "The thing that resonates the most with me in Star Cluster Hall is this?"


    Qin Yun looked at the black rock in front of him as his eyes lit up.


    Before Pangu split apart the heavens and earth, there was only Chaos. Amid the Chaos, Chaos Godfiends were born. For instance, Pangu, N¨¹wa, the Three Pure Ones, the Ancestral Dragon, Zhurong, Gonggong, and others were born out of the Chaos. They were born with great wisdom and Dharmic powers! Apart from producing life, the Chaos also gave birth to items. For example, Pangu''s ancient ax and other precious treasures. These were all considered Connate Numinous treasures.


    It also gave birth to certain items. These were items that had yet to become Connate Numinous treasures! However, materials like Liquid of Essence Lighting, Phoenix Fire Core, and Chaos Pure Gold were typically called Connate Wonders.


    Items refined using these Connate Wonders had the right to be called Connate Numinous treasures!


    For instance, the Empyrean Seal was a Connate Numinous treasure! And in fact, the Empyrean Seal was refined from half a piece of the mythological mountain, Mt. Buzhou, that broke off.


    Therefore¡ª


    Items refined using Connate Wonders were qualified to be labeled as Connate Numinous treasures.


    It was not incorrect to label supreme-grade Numinous treasures as the pinnacle of item refinement.


    This was because the Empyreal Seal and other Connate Numinous treasures that were refined largely stemmed from the Connate Wonders. For instance, 99% of the work for the Empyrean Seal was a result of that piece of Mt. Buzhou!


    "I''m a sword immortal, so I attracted this Chaos Pure Gold?" Qin Yun guessed.


    "By using it to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword, my Intrinsic Flying Sword is bound to undergo a qualitative transformation." When Qin Yun came into contact with the runic halo, he immediately understood the ways to use the Connate Wonder. He did not hesitate to use it as a resource to nourish his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword was his strongest weapon, and it could even be said to be part of his very being.


    "I''ll first store it away."


    "It''s too domineering. An ordinary Cosmic Bag will not be able to contain it." Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the yellow-skinned calabash. He first transferred the numerous materials and Immortal Pills in the calabash to a cosmic bag, leaving behind an empty calabash.


    "This calabash was bestowed by Master. It''s best used to store such items."


    "Retrieve." Qin Yun held the calabash, aiming its mouth at the Chaos Pure Gold. Immediately, space distorted as the Chaos Pure Gold rapidly shrank and entered the calabash.


    "It''s time to return." Qin Yun took a look at Star Cluster Hall.


    He commanded with a thought.


    Blurry light descended upon Qin Yun before he vanished and he returned to the Great Chang world.

 487 Nurturing the Intrinsic Flying Sword

    Chapter 487: Nurturing the Intrinsic Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    It was already late at night by the time Qin Yun returned to the Great Chang world.


    The night happened to be after a heavy snowstorm so it was extremely cold.


    Qin Yun walked through the snow-clad back garden, producing crunching noises. Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi, who were having an evening chat, rushed over to receive him.


    "Dad!" Qin Yiyi shouted from afar beaming. Yi Xiao also relaxed and smiled when she saw Qin Yun walking over.


    "Why haven''t you gone to bed yet?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I was waiting for you, Dad! How can a daughter sleep when her father is out dealing with Old Fiend Fire Puppet?" Qin Yiyi said with a smile before she pressed, "By the way, Dad, did you manage to kill Old Fiend Fire Puppet on your trip to Dragon Mountain world?"


    Qin Yun shook his head gently. "He escaped."


    "Escaped?" Yi Xiao asked perplexed. "Was his strength greater than expected?"


    "Not really. It happened that there was an eighth firmament Skyfiend and an eighth firmament Skydemon visiting Old Fiend Fire Puppet. Therefore, I had to fight one against three!" said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao was alarmed. "One against three?"


    "The eighth firmament Skyfiend was General Roc Fiend. The eighth firmament Skydemon was Demon King Prestige Goat," said Qin Yun.


    There was a limited number of experts that could reach the seventh firmament and higher in the Effulgent dominion! Of the many Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, and fiends, those that reached such realms were rather famous experts. Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi had learned of the top experts in the Effulgent dominion through Qin Yun. They even knew a little of some of the mighty figures in the Three Realms.


    "It was the two of them? Isn''t Prestige Goat a demon? The fiends kill all but Prestige Goat actually joined forces with those other two Skyfiends?" inquired Yi Xiao.


    "Most demons do not dare about colluding with Skyfiends." Qin Yun chuckled coldly. "However, Prestige Goat actually went to the Dragon Mountain world. He likely had a close relationship with Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet. He even dared to join forces with the two fiends to fight me! To act in such unbridled fashion in front of me, you can only imagine how bloodthirsty and overbearing he must have been. It''s no wonder he was plagued by heinous sins."


    "Dad, you aren''t injured, right?" Qin Yiyi was a little worried.


    Yi Xiao also looked worriedly at Qin Yun.


    Upon seeing his wife and daughter looking worried, Qin Yun said with a smile, "Don''t worry. I managed to slay Prestige Goat despite fighting one against three. It''s just a pity that Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet managed to escape."


    "Dad!" Qin Yiyi widened her eyes as she exclaimed, "You still managed to kill Prestige Goat despite fighting one against three?"


    "Yes, now go to bed," urged Qin Yun.


    "Dad, come on, tell me more. A battle of such scale is rare. Besides, you fought one against three," said Qin Yiyi as she reeled in anticipation.


    "Go rest," Qin Yun said firmly.


    Qin Yiyi pouted. "Okay."


    "However, you are truly formidable, Dad. Alright, I''ll go back to my room," said Qin Yiyi who could not conceal her excitement. With a tap of her foot, she flew towards her residence.


    "This girl." Qin Yun smiled as he watched his daughter depart.


    "It''s quite harrowing this time," said Yi Xiao. "You should have investigated the enemy''s strength first, but you immediately found yourself stuck in an ant''s nest. You even fought one against three¡­"


    "How could I have investigated?" Qin Yun shook his head. "Roc Fiend and Prestige Goat''s appearance there was meant to be a secret. When I arrived, it was already too late to research them and then the fighting began."


    "You should have turned away and left. You could have waited for another time," said Yi Xiao.


    "Who knows how long Roc Fiend and Prestige Goat intended to stay there for?" said Qin Yun with a smile. "I should take action when necessary. The three of them did not have what it takes to make me turn away."


    Yi Xiao chuckled. "Yes, you are the best. Let''s return to our room."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "I obtained a wonder at Star Cluster Hall. I have to enter seclusion quickly to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword. An hour should be sufficient. You head on back first."


    "What''s the wonder?" asked Yi Xiao out of curiosity.


    "I''ll tell you when I''m back. In short, it''s a huge treasure." Qin Yun found it hard to conceal his excitement.


    Qin Yun had reaped quite a huge harvest at the Dragon Mountain world, but he was still able to remain composed.


    But the Connate Wonder, Chaos Pure Gold, had indeed made Qin Yun''s blood boil in excitement. After all, such a wonder was something even mighty figures would think of means to obtain. They could be considered the inchoate kernel of a Connate Numinous treasure. After all, one could only refine Connate Numinous treasures with Connate Wonders. Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure could definitely refine a Connate Numinous treasure with such a large piece of Chaos Pure Gold if he put his mind to it.


    ¡­


    In his chamber.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun held the yellow-skinned calabash. With a thought, a stream of light flew out of the calabash''s mouth. It rapidly expanded into a hunk of Chaos Pure Gold that was half the height of a person. Qin Yun released his Dao domain to protect the area. This chamber had been specially constructed by Qin Yun. It was augmented by array formations and was able to block the emission of the Chaos Pure Gold''s natural aura.


    However, some items in the chamber, such as the mat, incense burner, or portraits, could not withstand its might.


    The Dao domain''s protection was firstly to protect the items, and secondly, prevent outsiders from sneaking up on him.


    "The materials needed to nurture my Intrinsic Flying Sword can be considered quality, but I have never been extravagant enough to use Connate Wonders to nurture it." Qin Yun looked at the Chaos Pure Gold. "Besides, among the Connate Wonders, Chaos Pure Gold is probably the best material to nurture an Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    Out of the Five Elements, a flying sword was of the metal element.


    Chaos Pure Gold¡­ was definitely the most suitable item among the Connate Wonders to nurture an Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    It was too extravagant!


    It could massively change the flying sword in a qualitative manner.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun waved his hand gently as a wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip. What was none other than his superior-grade Intrinsic Flying Sword, Misty Rain Sword, flew above the Chaos Pure Gold.


    "To use the Chaos Pure Gold as a resource, I still need to use the specialized formulation Master bestowed me." Qin Yun immediately used his Dharmic powers to circulate the formulation. He saw a black-and-white chart surface over the Misty Rain Sword. It enveloped the Chaos Pure Gold beneath it, and immediately, bits of golden points of light flew up. Each light dot was filled with infinite sharpness as though they were purer than the sun''s rays.


    These fragmentary golden points of light flew into the black-and-white chart and fused with the Misty Rain Sword.


    Hum!


    The Misty Rain Sword hummed as it trembled after absorbing a wisp.


    Clearly, the act of absorbing affected it greatly.


    It was able to draw upon the Chaos Pure Gold directly partially because of Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s mystic formulation. Another reason was that the Intrinsic Flying Sword was a superior-grade Numinous treasure. It had a rather robust foundation.


    "I can sense my Intrinsic Flying Sword transforming rapidly. The aid the Connate Wonder, Chaos Pure Gold, gives my flying sword is indeed astonishing." Qin Yun marveled as he waited in anticipation.


    ******


    Effulgent Great World. Bear Mountain.


    While Qin Yun was beginning to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword back in his homeworld, Demon King Bear Mountain was cultivating in seclusion.


    "Boom!!!"


    Bear Mountain sat cross-legged amid a plume of blue flames.


    "Oh?" Bear Mountain''s eyelids twitched as he opened his eyes.


    The blue flames that enveloped his body rapidly fused back into him. A flame mark surfaced on his body, and after it absorbed the blue flames, it vanished.


    "What happened?" Bear Mountain waved his hand as the void beside him rippled open. He looked at the other end of the void where a white wolf demon stood.


    "Junior Brother Bai Chong, what''s the matter?" asked Bear Mountain with a frown.


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, have you not been to Green Touring Palace?" The white wolf demon said immediately, "It has spread in Green Touring Palace, especially among the many demons of our Effulgent dominion."


    "What do you speak of?" asked Bear Mountain.


    Green Touring Palace was very mysterious in the Three Realms. Even mighty figures could not find it.


    Green Touring Palace disciples had to rely on the disciple mark''s guidance before they could enter.


    And normal means of communication could only be done in the same dominion! If one was in Green Touring Palace, there was no way to contact the exterior world.


    Similarly, the exterior world had no way of communicating with Green Touring Palace.


    The white wolf demon had returned to his lair before contacting Bear Mountain.


    "Prestige Goat is dead!" said the white wolf demon immediately. "He was killed by Qin Yun!"


    "What?" Bear Mountain found it unbelievable. "Prestige Goat is dead? Are you certain?"


    "Yes, it happened today, not very long ago."

 488 Demon King Bear Mountain Descends

    Chapter 488: Demon King Bear Mountain Descends


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Qin Yun was the murderer? He has the ability to do so?" said Bear Mountain with a frown. "He''s just an Essence Soul sword immortal."


    "Do you think I just shoot my mouth off willy-nilly when it comes to such matters?" said the white wolf demon. "If you don''t believe me, you can probe the karmic lines to confirm the news."


    Bear Mountain immediately sensed the karma on him.


    The various karmic lines went out¡­


    "Oh?"


    Bear Mountain discovered that the karmic line connecting him to Prestige Goat was gone.


    "He''s really dead." Bear Mountain felt somewhat disheartened. The demons were already declining, and there were only about a hundred demons in the Effulgent dominion that had broken through to the seventh firmament and beyond! How difficult was it to produce one? And now, one of them had been killed?


    "This Qin Yun is that daring?" Bear Mountain''s expression darkened. Pangs of fury burned in him.


    "He obviously dares," said the white wolf demon with a sneer. "This Junior Brother Qin of ours is really impressive. He headed for Dragon Mountain world and encountered Roc Fiend, Old Fiend Fire Puppet and Prestige Goat. He fought one against three! Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet escaped by making a puppet self-destruct. As for Prestige Goat, he was slain eventually. He won despite fighting one against three. How long has he cultivated? Why would he take into account us fellow disciples who are demons?"


    "One against three? Roc Fiend?" Bear Mountain nodded slightly. "Alright, I got it."


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, what do you plan on doing?" asked the white wolf demon.


    "You will know very soon." Bear Mountain''s voice growled with anger.


    The white wolf demon responded simply before the transmission was terminated.


    "During the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts, humans even revered us when I was a subordinate of the sixth prince." Bear Mountain''s eyes suffused coldness. "Now, I nicely requested him to show mercy and not kill powerful great demons. But I never expected him to kill an eight firmament demon king like Prestige Goat without any qualms! Does he really think we demons are to be bullied?"


    Bear Mountain flipped his hand and took out a memento.


    Buzz.


    The void rippled apart, and on the other end sat a black-robed man hugging a beauty on a throne.


    "Brother Bear Mountain." The black-robed man immediately waved his hand when he saw this. He dismissed all his subordinates.


    "Brother Lie, help me contact Roc Fiend," said Bear Mountain. "I need to know what exactly happened with Prestige Goat''s death."


    "Prestige Goat is dead?" The black-robed man was alarmed. "Alright, I''ll ask Roc Fiend now."


    "Make sure to ask in detail," said Bear Mountain. "Pay close attention to anything regarding the Qin Yun who killed Prestige Goat. I want to know about his strength and moves."


    "Alright. Brother Bear Mountain, don''t you worry," replied the black-robed man.


    "Okay."


    Bear Mountain nodded slightly as the void ripples closed and the transmission was terminated.


    In the Effulgent dominion, there were indeed some demon kings that took the initiative to protect the weak lesser demons. And the most famous one of them was Demon King Bear Mountain! Bear Mountain gained fame because he took an active part and was one of the strongest demon kings. Therefore, many demons would often request his help and several demon kings treated him as their leader.


    After getting another demon king to question Roc Fiend, he went to Green Touring Palace to gather more information. He even inquired with a friend from the Heavenly Courts to understand more.


    The Heavenly Courts paid attention to many of the major battles in the Three Realms.


    Since the battle of Dragon Mountain world was not concealed from the Green Touring Palace''s Fiend Vanquishment Mirror, it was equally impossible to hide it from the Heavenly Courts.


    ¡­


    After busying himself for several hours, Bear Mountain finally got the full picture after gathering information from various sources.


    "How dare he!"


    "Insolence, what arrogant insolence!"


    Bear Mountain burned with anger. With the aid of Green Touring Palace, he headed for the Great Chang world.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world.


    "Boom!"


    Bear Mountain''s figure tore through the layers of clouds as he swooped down. When he saw the extended plains beneath him and the dense population in the city a distance away, he stopped in midair.


    "Qin Yun!" Bear Mountain shouted angrily, "Come on out!"


    With a thought, he sensed the Heaven and Earth powers of the entire Great Chang world. Through them, he sent his voice to every spot of the Great Chang world.


    East Sea, West Sea, South Sea, North Sea¡­


    The nineteen prefectures of the Great Chang empire, the Myriad Mountains in the south, the demons in the northern lands¡­


    This angry bellow was filled with formless might that spread in every direction.


    "This¡­"


    Even the ordinary commoners in the cities and villagers heard the angry bellow that made their hearts palpitate.


    As for cultivators and demons, they sensed it more acutely. They could sense the mighty and horrific suppression. It left them even more appalled than the commoners.


    "What''s happened?" In the royal palace, Human Emperor looked into the horizon with a slight change in expression.


    "Qin Yun! Come on out!"


    The rumbling voice reverberated above the Imperial Capital. This left Human Emperor feeling bewildered. "Who dares come to my Great Chang world to act in such an unbridled fashion? Qin Yun is now a disciple of Green Touring Palace. But judging from the suppression that stems from this voice, the person''s strength is very terrifying."


    "Oh?"


    East Sea Skydragon, Skydemon Palatial Lord, Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa, and Patriarch Bai all heard the voice. Their expressions changed drastically from shock.


    "Oh?" Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang walked coldly out of his seclusion hall. He looked up into the distance as his pupils constricted. "It''s Senior Brother Bear Mountain?"


    ¡­


    Grand Dominance. Qin Manor.


    It was morning.


    Snow was piled on the trees, occasionally drifting down.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were sitting under a pavilion as they drank tea and watched their daughter practice her swordplay on the snow-clad lands.


    "Qin Yun, come on out!" The angry voice seemed to come from the heavens themselves. It was more terrifying than thunder as it spread in every direction. Similarly, it resounded across Grand Dominance City, echoing through Qin Manor.


    Grand Dominance City residents were in an uproar.


    Sword Immortal Qin Yun was the pride of Grand Dominance City.


    "Who dares act so insolently as to call Sword Immortal Qin by his name?"


    "He''s too arrogant!"


    These commoners engaged in a flurry of discussion.


    It was also chaotic in Qin Manor. Even Qin Liehu and Changlan turned nervous.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao''s expression changed as Qin Yiyi flew to Qin Yun''s side.


    "Dad, who is it?"


    Qin Yun''s expression turned cold as he looked into the distance. His gaze penetrated the void and saw the stout demon''s figure more than five thousand kilometers away.


    "Seriously¡­" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with coldness.


    He had come directly to his homeworld!


    His angry bellow had been heard by everyone in his homeworld.


    "Bear Mountain! How insolent of you!" Qin Yun took a step and appeared high above Grand Dominance City. He coldly shouted, his voice similarly resounding through every corner of the world.


    "Oh?"


    Bear Mountain, who was more than five thousand kilometers away, immediately sensed the sharp aura from the southeast. It was Qin Yun''s aura.


    Bear Mountain grinned hideously as he took a step and traversed the void to arrive above Grand Dominance City.


    "Qin Yun, my good junior brother." Bear Mountain stood in midair, his body billowing with a terrifying aura. The mortals beneath shuddered in fear just from seeing him with their naked eyes.


    "Bear Mountain." Qin Yun''s expression was ice-cold.


    And at that moment, Qin Liehu and his wife, Yi Xiao, and Qin Yiyi were looking nervously at the two figures in the sky.


    They could tell at a glance that Bear Mountain''s aura was extremely terrifying. He was clearly a powerful great demon.


    "You sure gave me face. I requested you to show mercy, but you went right out and killed Prestige Goat," Bear Mountain said with a savage expression. His aura radiated out in his rage, but it was blocked by Qin Yun''s Dao domain. "Prestige Goat was an eighth firmament Skydemon! It is extremely difficult for my Effulgent dominion to produce one demon king, and you killed him without any qualms. From the looks of it, you think nothing of your demon senior brothers and sisters!"


    "I will naturally give my senior brothers and sisters face," said Qin Yun. "My intention when heading to the Dragon Mountain world was to kill Old Fiend Fire Puppet. But Prestige Goat colluded with the Skyfiends to fight me. I naturally had to attack him."


    "But you killed him," said Bear Mountain angrily.


    "In the second round of tests Master gave us, we are to kill Skyfiends or those with heinous sins. By killing one with heinous sins, I have completed the test set by Master. Is there anything wrong with that?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "But he''s ultimately a demon. What if he was human? Would you have still been so quick to kill him?" said Bear Mountain angrily.


    "Of course!"


    Qin Yun said coldly, "I''ve mentioned it before. I have a overly feisty temper. If someone with heinous sins crosses me, I''ll kill them regardless if they are human or demon."


    "That sounds nice. Tell me, which powerful human have you killed?" scoffed Bear Mountain.


    "Prestige Goat is the first seventh firmament being I killed," said Qin Yun. "Having cultivated this long, I have never shown mercy to humans with heinous sins. In mortal kingdoms, criminals that commit crimes punishable by death are all executed! It''s the same for us cultivators. Those black sheep that commit atrocities should be put to death. Destroying these heinous beings will only benefit us, humans and demons alike."


    "Cut the crap," said Bear Mountain with a scoff. "I''m not listening to what you say. I only see what you do. The humans you kill are weaklings. They do not leave any effects on humans. But by killing Prestige Goat, you have robbed us demons of a demon king"


    "Whoosh."


    A figure crossed the void and arrived.


    This person was none other than Ancestral Master Zhang. He had purple lightning sparkling across his body. His aura was similarly powerful and terrifying. He stared at Bear Mountain and said coldly, "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, coming to my Great Chang world to act in such unbridled fashion is unbecoming of a senior brother."


    "Oh. Junior Brother Divine Firmament is here too." Bear Mountain scoffed.


    ¡­


    Yi Xiao, Qin Yiyi, Qin Liehu, and Changlan, were all looking at the three figures high up in the sky.


    Bear Mountain, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Qin Yun all had terrifying auras. They were capable of causing phenomena like dark clouds gathering in the sky and making lightning flash. Ancestral Master Zhang and Qin Yun stood together, across from Bear Mountain.


    "Mom." Qin Yiyi felt a little uneasy.


    "It''s fine." Yi Xiao whispered as she stared at the sky.

 489 Scheduling A Battle

    Chapter 489: Scheduling A Battle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Up above Grand Dominance City, three top experts of the Effulgent dominion appeared as incompatible as fire and water.


    Ancestral Master Zhang said coldly, "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, Junior Brother Qin killed a being with heinous sins according to Master''s criterion for the second round of tests. Is there any fault in that? You came here obstreperously to our homeworld to shout so angrily. Your raging reaches the entire Great Chang world, letting countless beings hear it. Isn''t that going a little too overboard?"


    "Overboard? Is this what you call overboard? Prestige Goat is dead!" said Bear Mountain angrily.


    "Then, Senior Brother Bear Mountain, what do you want?" said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Hmph!"


    Bear Mountain sneered. "You have a sharp tongue, so I won''t engage in a war of words with you. You know very well what''s wrong with this matter. I previously came to you in a good-natured manner to ask you to spare demons. You agreed verbally, but then go and kill as you wished. Fine¡­ the one you killed was a demon king with heinous sins. You even gained merit from that! I will not argue with you any further, but since you refuse to give face to us senior brothers and sisters, I''ll teach you the fact that between cultivators, it''s the fist that speaks!"


    "Fist?" Ancestral Master Zhang frowned as he shouted, "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, what do you intend to do? Do you want to engage in fratricidal fighting? Aren''t you afraid of Master''s punishments?"


    Fratricidal fighting was something Green Touring Palace, Jade Void Palace, and Eight Scenic Palace punished severely.


    "I do not dare engage in fratricidal fighting." Bear Mountain looked at Qin Yun. "All I wish to do is to shake Junior Brother Qin to his senses. I want him to know that there is always someone stronger in the Three Realms! I do not want him disregard his senior brothers and sisters just because he is slightly capable."


    "You want to shake me to my senses?" asked Qin Yun. "Might I know how you intend to do that?"


    "One month from now, on the fifteenth day of the last month of the year. We shall visit Dao Exchange Platform." Bear Mountain looked at Qin Yun and sneered. "Junior Brother Qin, do you dare to face me?"


    "Of course!" said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Hahaha¡­" Bear Mountain roared with laughter. "You do have some guts. However, something has to be wagered when you spar at Dao Exchange Platform! We shall each offer a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. The supreme-grade Numinous treasure will be given to the victor, how about it? I know you obtained Prestige Goat''s supreme-grade Numinous treasure Yin Water Chains after killing him."


    Qin Yun looked at Bear Mountain and said, "So you already have made plans. Fine, I''ll offer the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Yin Water Chains. I wonder what item you will be offering?"


    "I''ll offer the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Five Fires Calabash," said Bear Mountain.


    "A month from now on the fifteenth day of the last month of the year. Are we going according to the Effulgent Great World''s time?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Of course! There are too many Small Worlds. Time flows at different speeds in different spaces. The Effulgent dominion''s time is naturally determined by Effulgent Great World''s time," said Bear Mountain.


    "Then it''s settled."


    "Alright." Bear Mountain sneered. "Prepare to give me the Yin Water Chains in a month. It is ultimately not yours, anyway."


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, it''s best you touch your Five Fires Calabash a lot in the next month. You won''t be able to touch it anymore after our match," said Qin Yun.


    "Hmph, do you think that others can''t harm you just because you mastered the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes great divine powers?"


    Bear Mountain said with a sneer as he turned.


    A blurry light descended upon Bear Mountain before he vanished.


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang stood in midair as they took in this scene.


    "Why did you bother with him?" Ancestral Master Zhang could not help but say. "What could he do to you if you did not accept the challenge? As for those peeved fellow demon disciples, you can simply ignore them! There is but a small number of demons that only care about their common race while disregarding what is right and wrong."


    "They might not dare do anything because of their fear of the Green Touring Palace''s rules, but if I respond with cowardice, ignoring their provocations¡­" said Qin Yun coldly. "How can I allow these fellow demon disciples who can''t distinguish right from wrong treat to me as a coward?"


    "Put up with them and you will be able to teach them a lesson in the future," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "I can similarly teach him a lesson now," said Qin Yun.


    "Don''t let your newfound powers go to your head."


    Ancestral Master Zhang shouted, "That Bear Mountain is also a Green Touring Palace disciple. He used to be a subordinate of the demon''s sixth price during the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. He cultivated his body to the ninth firmament a long time ago. Many demon kings in the Effulgent dominion are willing to recognize him as their leader. That''s because he is sufficiently powerful! You should know that those that cultivate the Physical Establishing Sage to the ninth firmament are very difficult to handle."


    "I know. I have fought Roc Fiend before," said Qin Yun.


    "Bear Mountain is a lot stronger than Roc Fiend. One of him can fight five Roc Fiends," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "According to what he says, you have mastered the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes great divine powers?"


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes can only protect one''s body. Although the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm can trap enemies and control an area, it''s not very effective against Bear Mountain who cultivates in the Physical Establishing Sage¡­ The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s suppression has little influence on the terrifying force of the ninth firmament Physical Establishing Sage." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head.


    "I cultivate in the Sword Dao. I''m best at killing enemies."


    "The most famous combat generals in the Three Realms are not sword immortals, but Physical Establishing Sages," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "In short, don''t be careless."


    With that said, Ancestral Master Zhang took a step and left.


    Qin Yun pondered for a moment.


    Yes, although the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s two Golden Immortal sword immortals had created the reputation of destroying all Dharma with a single sword in the Three Realms, the truly powerful combat generals of the Three Realms were always those who practiced the Physical Establishing Sage. The lineage created meant that were most suitable for combat. All of them were real pieces of work. Strikes from others might only rupture their skin, but one cleave from them would rob opponents of their lives.


    "Bear Mountain? My Sword Dao is gradually approaching the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm. My improvements will decrease with time. This will be quite a suitable way of honing myself," thought Qin Yun.


    Swoosh.


    Qin Yun descended and returned to Qin Manor.


    "Yun''er, where did that demon come from? Why was he that audacious?" Changlan asked immediately. His father, Qin Liehu, was also a little worried. Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi looked at Qin Yun as well.


    "It''s nothing," said Qin Yun. Following that, he swept his gaze into the distance. Many people were looking around and discussing in whispers far away in Qin Manor. The moment they saw him look over, they scattered away in fear.


    ******


    Effulgent Great World.


    Bear Mountain was inside a grand hall.


    He sat high up on his throne with demon kings sitting to his side. Including Bear Mountain, there were a total of eleven demon kings gathered in the grand hall.


    "Let us toast Brother Bear Mountain," said a tiger demon as he raised his cup.


    "Brother Bear Mountain."


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain."


    The demon kings raised their cups.


    Bear Mountain lifted his cup and drank it in one gulp. He roared with laughter, "It''s still too early to celebrate. On the fifteenth, I will teach Qin Yun a lesson he will remember in front of all the fellow disciples of the Three Realms on Green Touring Palace''s Dao Exchange Platform. I will take back Prestige Goat''s supreme-grade Numinous treasure, the Yin Water Chains. Only then will it be time to celebrate."


    "Yes, that should be the case."


    "Let him embarrass himself among all his fellow disciples of the Three Realms."


    "Prestige Goat''s Yin Water Chains must be retrieved."


    The demon kings spoke freely.


    "Brother Bear Mountain, do you have any reason for deliberately setting the date of his punishment a whole month away?" A scorpion demoness looked at Bear Mountain.


    "The news needs time to spread." Bear Mountain held his wine cup and scoffed. "My Green Touring Palace fellow disciples are spread across the Three Realms. By giving the news time to spread, more fellow disciples will know of it and there will be more of them spectating the battle! The more spectators there are, the more relief I''ll feel when I teach that Qin Yun a lesson and embarrass him."


    "Yes, that''s the way to relieve anger."


    "Unfortunately, I have not been recruited into Green Touring Palace. I won''t be able to spectate the battle."


    "Don''t worry. After I finish watching it, I''ll describe it to you, Sister."


    These demon kings drank and chatted jovially. They were filled with confidence in Bear Mountain''s eventual defeat of Qin Yun. After all, they had also heard of the two great divine powers that Qin Yun had mastered. Although they were powerful, they posed little threat in front of Bear Mountain.

 490 Intrinsic Supreme-grade Numinous Treasure

    Chapter 490: Intrinsic Supreme-grade Numinous Treasure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor. Inside a chamber.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat with the yellow-skinned calabash in his hand.


    "Out."


    A stream of light immediately flew out of the calabash''s mouth and landed on the ground. It was the Chaos Pure Gold, which was about half the height of a person, but it clearly looked slightly smaller than before.


    "If my guess isn''t wrong, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will likely break through to the supreme-grade Numinous treasure level tonight." Qin Yun was reeling in anticipation. "My battle with Bear Mountain is in a month! According to the Great Chang world''s time, that is equivalent to three months! It''s more than sufficient for me."


    "It''s time."


    Qin Yun placed the calabash to the side and waved his hand. A wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip and came to a stop above the Chaos Pure Gold.


    As he circulated the formulation, a black-and-white chart surfaced over the Misty Rain Sword. It enveloped the Chaos Pure Gold beneath it as bits of golden points of light flew up and into the black-and-white chart before being absorbed by the Misty Rain Sword.


    A sword hum sounded!


    Clearly, absorbing the Chaos Pure Gold''s powers was changing the Intrinsic Flying Sword to its very core.


    Qin Yun waited¡­ The refinement extraction took about ten minutes this time.


    "Phew¡ª"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword let out the faint sound of a gentle breeze as the sword''s body began to change at a discernible rate.


    Half a month of extraction finally allowed it to accumulate enough to make a true breakthrough.


    "It''s broken through." Qin Yun looked at his Intrinsic Flying Sword that had completely changed in appearance with a burning gaze. Now, his Intrinsic Flying Sword was pale gold in color. On closer inspection, there was a misty rain swirling faintly within the flying sword that was illuminated by a shimmering gold light. Amid the swirling misty rain were the hints of a massive world inside the sword. The misty rain and the massive world were manifestations of Qin Yun''s Sword Dao.


    And the hidden golden light was the manifestation of the Chaos Pure Gold''s powers.


    The Sword Dao at his level would normally only allow him to nurture up to a superior-grade Numinous treasure.


    However, the Chaos Pure Gold metamorphosed the Intrinsic Flying Sword, making it transcend to the level of a supreme-grade Numinous treasure.


    The Misty Rain Sword gently flew into Qin Yun''s palm.


    It looked ordinary as always.


    However, Qin Yun could sense that the Misty Rain Sword contained a might that left even him alarmed.


    "They are both supreme-grade Numinous treasures." Qin Yun reached out his left hand as the Yin Water Chains appeared in his left hand. He held the Misty Rain Sword in his right. "But the Misty Rain Sword is an intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure. The difference in might is just too great."


    Following that, he put away the Yin Water Chains.


    Qin Yun looked at his Intrinsic Flying Sword. With a thought, the Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately flew into his body.


    His Essence Soul Dharmic powers also naturally fused with the Intrinsic Flying Sword. After being tempered by the flying sword, they turned even sharper. However, as the founder of a new sword immortal lineage, Qin Yun''s Essence Soul Dharmic powers had long reached a purity that was the peak of the Essence Soul realm! It could not improve any further.


    "With an intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure in hand, I can completely match the power of a Connate Numinous treasure." Qin Yun revealed a gleeful look. "Furthermore, this sword suits me best."


    "However, I have expended about thirty percent of the Chaos Pure Gold to raise my Intrinsic Flying Sword from the superior-grade to the supreme-grade." Qin Yun looked at the large piece of Chaos Pure Gold in front of him. There was about seventy percent left, so it looked smaller. The ground to the side was littered with fragmentary shards.


    "If I can attain the Golden Immortal Dao fruit in the future, I will let my Intrinsic Flying Sword refine the Chaos Pure Gold again. Perhaps it can break through to the Connate Numinous treasure level. It would then be an intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure. Of course, that''s still far off in the future. Attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit is not that simple." Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    He held up the yellow-skinned calabash and stored away the Chaos Pure Gold.


    "I''ll first head to Green Touring Palace to test the strength of my Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    He did not dare test it out in his homeworld.


    He was afraid that he might accidentally destroy Grand Dominance City. If that happened, he would have committed a grievous sin.


    The blurry light descended as Qin Yun headed for Green Touring Palace.


    ¡­


    Every Green Touring Palace disciple had a compound. Inside it was a chamber which looked ordinary, but was so sturdy that even a mighty figure could forget about destroying it! After all, it was a part of Green Touring Palace.


    Green Touring Palace. Inside Qin Yun''s chamber.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    The Misty Rain Sword circled around Qin Yun in flight. It generated ripples as it sliced through the void. The might left Qin Yun feeling apprehensive. "I''m not even using any sword moves. Just simple flight is already this strong?"


    "If my Misty Rain Sword had this strength while fighting Old Fiend Fire Puppet, how could he have even fled?" thought Qin Yun.


    "The other senior brothers and sisters received suitable treasures from Star Cluster Hall, and most of them are supreme-grade Numinous treasures. But how can they compare with¡­ my intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure? I was actually very lucky to resonate with the Connate Wonder, Chaos Pure Gold." Qin Yun felt rather lucky. The Chaos Pure Gold had indeed improved his strength greatly.


    "However, I need to test out my sword moves properly."


    "During the battle on the fifteenth, I''ll still need to rely on my flying sword moves to defeat Bear Mountain." Qin Yun began to focus on practicing his flying sword moves.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword had not broken through according to his Sword Dao''s nourishment. Instead, it had relied on an external object for the breakthrough.


    Therefore, the Intrinsic Flying Sword had several charms that Qin Yun found difficult to grasp. It appeared chaotic and unfathomable, yet sharp and direct, with a will to slice through everything.


    Connate Wonders¡­ were just that wondrous. It was the sole reason the Intrinsic Flying Sword surpassed the limits that shackled it to reach a brand new level.


    As Qin Yun experienced the brand new Intrinsic Flying Sword, he got more familiar with it and gained inspiration.


    "The Chaos is baffling and hard to describe. It has infinite sharpness, as well as the will to slice through everything." Qin Yun looked at his flying Intrinsic Flying Sword. "Is this what my Sword Dao is lacking?"


    Qin Yun pondered over it.


    The Chaos Pure Gold was not only an item, it was a manifestation of the Great Dao''s powers.


    These powers were why only Connate Wonders could refine Connate Numinous treasures.


    As for the Misty Rain Sword, it had a portion of the Chaos Pure Gold''s Great Dao powers. It was something its owner, Qin Yun, could sense.


    ******


    Days passed one after another.


    High in the sky of the Great Chang world''s West Sea.


    Qin Yun stood in midair with his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm enveloping a region fifteen hundred kilometers in diameter! He was freely casting the Misty Rain Sword within that boundary.


    Now that he was familiar with his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s might, he could use the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s might to ensure that the Misty Rain Sword''s might would not leak out.


    "If any power leaks out, just one strike could split the West Sea," thought Qin Yun.


    Of course, before his Intrinsic Flying Sword broke through, his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm could easily destroy an area thousands of kilometers across.


    At his level, rending the heaven and earth asunder was not false talk.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something and put away his Intrinsic Flying Sword before waving his hand. The space beside him rippled out as it connected to a distant void.


    There, a male dragon was looking at Qin Yun.


    "Senior Brother Ao," said Qin Yun with a smile. Although the dragons were powerful in the Three Realms, they still could become disciples of Daoist and Buddhist mighty figures! There were three dragons in the Effulgent dominion that became Green Touring Palace disciples. Two of them were stuck at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm, while only one of them had reached the ninth firmament Skyimmortal. It was this Senior Brother Ao Fang.


    "Junior Brother Qin," greeted Dragon King Ao Fang with a smile. "I''ve been busy these past few days leading the dragons in an occupation of Dragon Mountain world to reconstruct it. I haven''t gotten the chance to thank you."


    "Reconstruct Dragon Mountain world?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "Haha, yes. Dragon Mountain world suits us dragons the best," said Ao Fang with a smile. "Junior Brother Qin, after you utterly defeated Old Fiend Fire Puppet and company, the fiendish side stopped making attacks on the planet. Therefore, our occupation has been quite smooth. It''s all thanks to you, Junior Brother Qin. Once I''m done here, I''ll definitely visit you in person to thank you."


    "Senior Brother Ao, there''s no need to do so," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "This matter is settled." Ao Fang added. "By the way, I heard that you will be battling Bear Mountain on Dao Exchange Platform?"


    "Senior Brother Ao, you know about this as well?" said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "The news has long spread. Many Green Touring Palace disciples know of the matter. There will probably be many disciples there to spectate the battle on the fifteen," said Ao Fang. "You have to be careful. Bear Mountain is not an easy opponent. He''s not someone an ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal can compare with."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "I understand."


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, it was the date of the sparring match.


    It was already spring in the Great Chang world as vegetation was growing once more. The old trees in Qin Manor began to sprout.


    Qin Yun finished the breakfast Yi Xiao made personally for him.


    "Time to go." Qin Yun stood up.


    "Dad, I believe you will definitely defeat that Demon King Bear Mountain," said Qin Yiyi.


    "You have to be careful no matter what. In battle, it''s hard to hold back. That Demon King Bear Mountain''s body is powerful and resistant. It would be trouble if your body were to suffer a hit."


    "My dear wife, don''t worry. I will definitely win and bring back that supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Five Fires Calabash, so I can show it to you," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Yi Xiao could not help but chuckle.


    "Yiyi, be good and stay home with your mom." Qin Yiyi instructed before he activated his disciple mark with a smile.


    A blurry light descended upon Qin Yun before he vanished.

 491 Qin Yun Battles Demon King Bear Mountain

    Chapter 491: Qin Yun Battles Demon King Bear Mountain


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun headed for Dao Exchange Platform the moment he arrived in Green Touring Palace. On the way, he encountered many of his senior brothers and sisters.


    "Junior Brother Qin, you actually dared to accept that Bear Mountain''s challenge. Impressive."


    "Junior Brother Qin, you have to teach that bear demon a good lesson this time."


    Many senior brothers and sisters said such things ardently. There were quite a number of them that stood on Qin Yun''s side.


    Firstly, most of Green Touring Palace disciples knew how to differentiate between right and wrong.


    Secondly, Qin Yun had a bright future ahead of him. Even if he was not Bear Mountain''s match this time, they believed that he would ultimately be able to suppress Bear Mountain in the future.


    "Whoosh."


    Deep along a trail among the Green Touring Palace''s clouds, there was a spatial void. Floating in it was an ancient and unadorned combat platform. It was the Dao Exchange Platform.


    With a whoosh, Qin Yun flew directly onto it and waited silently.


    He scanned his surroundings, and beyond the Dao Exchange Platform were hundreds of Green Touring Palace disciples. They were watching while standing on clouds in groups of twos or threes. There were still many Green Touring Palace disciples flying over on clouds of their own.


    "Junior Brother Qin is here."


    "This Qin Yun sure came early."


    There were all sorts of discussions.


    Everyone was feeling carefree and relaxed. To these spectating disciples, the battle was just one of the interesting matters of their long lifespans.


    "This Junior Brother Qin of ours is the only one who has carved a new sword immortal lineage other than the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. He hasn''t cultivated for long, but his strength is already no less than a ninth firmament Skyimmortal''s. Say, who do you think will win today''s battle?" commented a white-browed Daoist.


    "Hahaha¡­ Junior Brother Qin does have a bright future ahead of him. However, he agreed to this battle a little too readily. That Bear Mountain cultivates in the Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation after all. Even a strike from a mighty figure would just leave him injured. Of those with strength less than mighty figures¡­ few people can kill Bear Mountain," said a hunchbacked elder with a crutch.


    "This is Dao Exchange Platform, not a fight to the death. They just need to end with a victor," said another young Daoist.


    "Demon King Bear Mountain can stand there and allow Junior Brother Qin to attack him as he wishes, but it is unlikely he will be injured. How can Junior Brother Qin win like that?" said the hunchbacked elder with a smile.


    "We shall know in a while," said the young Daoist.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stood on Dao Exchange Platform and waited silently.


    The senior brothers and sisters that surrounded the platform increased. There were many who were curious about their junior brother. Of course, Ancestral Master Zhang, Dragon King Ao Fang, the three pig demon brothers, and others familiar with Qin Yun had arrived. All of them stood on clouds while discussing on the sidelines.


    "Junior Brother Divine Firmament. Your fellow native sure is gutsy. Do you think he has any chances of winning?"


    "Qin Yun''s perceptivity is indeed high. You will know in a while." Ancestral Master Zhang was chatting with his fellow disciples as well.


    ******


    Qin Yun waited for nearly an hour on Dao Exchange Platform before he suddenly sensed something. He turned his head as the stout Bear Mountain and several demons flew over. Following that, Bear Mountain exchanged a few words with the demons before flying to Dao Exchange Platform alone. He gradually descended and landed silently.


    Bear Mountain looked at Qin Yun and grinned. "Hahaha, I thought you would be too afraid to come. I never expected you to come even earlier than me. At the very least, I''m impressed by your guts."


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, since you are here, go ahead and make your move," said Qin Yun.


    "There''s no rush," Bear Mountain said, his voice resounding.


    It reached the two thousand Green Touring Palace disciples around them. "Everyone, I will be having a Dao exchange with Junior Brother Qin. We will each offer a treasure. I will be offering the supreme-grade Numinous Treasure Mountain, Five Fires Calabash. As for Junior Brother Qin, he will offer the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Yin Water Chains. Junior Brother Qin, am I right?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    Bear Mountain nodded. He had confirmed it publicly because he was afraid Qin Yun would go back on his word after being defeated.


    By establishing the terms of the bet ahead of time, it prevented Qin Yun from being dishonest.


    "Junior Brother Qin, this should be your first time on the Dao Exchange Platform. Let me explain the rules," said Bear Mountain. "Beat your opponent until they admit defeat, capture your opponent alive, or send your opponent out of the Dao Exchange Platform''s area. All of these will result in victory."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    Capturing alive was in no way less difficult than directly killing one''s opponent.


    This was because there were many fellow disciples watching. If one was completely overpowered, one would usually take the initiative to admit defeat before facing utter embarrassment.


    Admitting defeat and being captured alive typically only happened when the difference in strength was extremely large.


    At the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, these Green Touring Palace disciples cultivated in extremely brilliant Dharmic formulations. It was common for their strength to be similar!


    When strength was similar, sending one''s opponent out of the Dao Exchange Platform was, in fact, the more common outcome.


    "Since Junior Brother Qin is now aware of it," Bear Mountain smiled with his eyes narrowed, looking somewhat genial. "Then, watch your front."


    "Senior Brother, you have to be careful too." The moment Qin Yun said that¡ª


    Boom!


    Blurry starlight was immediately released from Qin Yun''s body. The starlight naturally caused boundless stellar forces from the external world to descend, forming the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. The vast stellar realm blanketed the entire Dao Exchange Platform.


    360 Swords of Stellar Light floated around Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun watched Bear Mountain from the center of the starry realm like a stellar god.


    "Try a taste of this Five Fires Calabash." Bear Mountain casually waved his hand as a red calabash floated in midair. It immediately spewed five columns of flames, each different in color. They were like five flaming dragons that streaked across the sky as they attacked Qin Yun.


    With a thought, the 360 Swords of Stellar Light formed a Heavenly Cycle sword array.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The five fiery columns blazed, turning the world around them into an inferno.


    However, the Heavenly Cycle sword array was unfazed by the attack.


    "I never expected Senior Brother Bear Mountain to be good at controlling flames, to the point of drawing out so much might from the Five Fires Calabash," praised a relaxed Qin Yun.


    Bear Mountain waved his hand again as a pouch flew up.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    The pouch immediately sent out a gust of gray wind.


    The wind stoked the flames.


    It was a combination of wind and fire!


    Instantly, the inferno around the Heavenly Cycle sword array increased drastically in strength. Even the Heavenly Cycle sword array began having a hard time resisting the deadly inferno. A shocked Qin Yun thought to himself, "Thankfully my Intrinsic Flying Sword has broken through. I gained inspiration from the baffling Chaos contained in my Intrinsic Flying Sword. It benefited my Five Elemental Sword Sutra, raising my Heavenly Cycle sword array''s strength as well. If not, just this fire and wind array¡­ would be enough to force me to use my Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes to resist it."


    "This isn''t the first time Bear Mountain is using his Wind Howling Pouch. I never expected his fire control to reach such a formidable state. I also never expected the combined forces of wind and fire to have such potency."


    "Yea, his fire control is indeed brilliant. If not, even the combination of wind and fire would not be this powerful."


    The spectators included humans, demons, and even dragons.


    All of them were commenting on the battle.


    "Oh?" Bear Mountain was astonished seeing the outcome of his attack. He laughed and said, "Haha, Junior Brother, you sure have some tricks up your sleeve. You are actually able to easily withstand this bit of wind and fire. Alright, I shall stop using these minor attacks."


    As he said this, he waved his hand and put away the two supreme-grade Numinous treasures, Wind Howling Pouch and Five Fires Calabash.


    Following that, Bear Mountain phased away.


    Boom!


    He immediately grew to a thousand feet high, like a small mountain. His terrifying aura radiated as each of his bear paws held a huge hammer.


    Although the dense stellar forces descended and pressed down on his body, he thought nothing of it. This bit of pressure? With his strength, he could ignore it completely.


    "Boom!" Bear Mountain brandished the hammers in his hands as his arms suddenly bulged. The hammers also expanded! Instantly, the hammerheads were nearly five kilometers wide. When they streaked across the void, they made the void warp slightly, as though a star had descended and was coming smashing down at Qin Yun. The pure might was truly terrifying. If it landed in the mortal world, just this strike alone would send quakes for thousands of miles, instantly flattening a mortal empire.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip. It flashed in midair and was extremely odd. It silently dodged Bear Mountain''s terrifying smite! The flying sword seemed to violate causality as it stabbed straight into Bear Mountain''s chest.


    Qin Yun''s strike had been silent, but the moment it stabbed Bear Mountain''s chest, it produced black ripples. It made Bear Mountain''s expression change slightly.


    Netherfiend Records¡ªVenomous Stinger!


    The intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure had delivered the extremely odd Netherfiend Records''s sword move against its first enemy after its breakthrough. He was bent on using the first move to teach Bear Mountain a lesson.


    "The might of an intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure is in no way weaker than a Connate Numinous treasure. Will you¡­ be able to withstand this strike?" Qin Yun had a look of anticipation in his eyes.


    "Boom!"


    Upon feeling the sword pierce his chest, Bear Mountain saw the black ripples emanate. He could not help but take many steps back in retreat. The original swing of his hammers also slammed heavily into empty ground.


    There was a lot of fur at his chest that was damaged; however, all that was left was a white mark on his skin. The white mark had barely tore open the skin, but with Bear Mountain''s thick skin, it was still the epidermal level¡­ not one drop of blood came out.


    "What?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    "Oh?" Bear Mountain looked down at his chest. Following that, he grinned hideously at Qin Yun. "Junior Brother Qin, it looks like I have underestimated you."

 492 Five Elemental Sword Sutra

    Chapter 492: Five Elemental Sword Sutra


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After Bear Mountain suffered the sneak attack, he realized that Qin Yun was stronger than he had expected!


    Therefore, he had to attack with all he had!


    "Boom!" Flame runes surfaced on Bear Mountain''s body. Azure-colored flames sparked to life around him.


    Bathed in the azure-colored flames, Bear Mountain appeared even more terrifying.


    "That is?"


    "This is the Fire of the Azure Wood. Isn''t it a battle magi Dharmic formulation that uses the Fire of Azure Wood to temper one''s body?"


    "And from the looks of it, he has mastered it. To temper one''s body with the Fire of the Azure Wood, one''s body would become invincible. His body is a lot stronger than before."


    Many of the spectating Green Touring Palace disciples were very knowledgeable. After all, the Green Touring Palace''s Myriad Dharma Repository had in its collection such a battle magi Dharmic formulation. They had all seen it before.


    However, it did not mean that they could cultivate in it.


    "It''s no wonder his control over the Five Fires Calabash''s flames was that impressive."


    "The flames contained in the Five Fires Calabash represent the five elements. One of them is the Fire of Azure Wood¡­ I believe that when Bear Mountain sought the Five Fires Calabash way back, he did so to use the Fire of Azure Wood within to temper his body."


    "His body has become even stronger. Perhaps only truly mighty figures can threaten him now."


    "I would not dare say that he''s invincible among those beneath the level of mighty figures, but people beneath the mighty figure level¡­ can at most lightly injure him."


    These Green Touring Palace disciples were somewhat astonished.


    A ninth firmament Skyimmortal of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage was strong to begin with.


    He had also cultivated in a secondary battle magi lineage. Furthermore, it was clear that he had mastered it, making his body even stronger.


    "Junior Brother Qin, take this."


    Bear Mountain''s voice rumbled like thunder. He brandished his two hammers, each one of them like a plummeting star that smashed right at Qin Yun.


    This was how the Dharma could be cracked with overwhelming force!


    When one''s strength reached a staggering stage, all would be vanquished be it god or immortal.


    "Go." Qin Yun''s strength elevated as well.


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a glaring golden sword flash that streaked across the sky, clashing straight into the two hammers.


    "Clang!" "Clang!"


    Just a light brush was enough to change the directions of the two huge hammers. Even Bear Mountain''s expression was twisted.


    Rip!


    The sword flash was blindingly resplendent. It slashed across Bear Mountain''s abdomen, carving up a visible wound. Some blood splattered out, but the wound rapidly healed.


    "Even stronger?" Bear Mountain frowned.


    "His skin was just barely ruptured?" Qin Yun frowned as well. The Netherfiend Records were of utmost oddness. The techniques were typically very difficult to dodge, but the might they produced was relatively weaker. But the strike he had just used was a sword move from the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art. It was even sharper, but it only managed to rupture his opponent''s skin and make him bleed slightly.


    "Even if I release another few dozen strikes to form a sword trend, I will probably only leave him slightly injured." Qin Yun understood this point. "This Bear Mountain''s body is stronger than I expected. He has also made a battle magi Dharmic formulation his secondary focus. Perhaps only a real mighty figure would be able to force him to admit defeat."


    ¡­


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Both sides were embroiled in battle.


    Bear Mountain released all his strength, each strike containing horrifying might. As for his safety, he didn''t even bother dodging.


    Qin Yun used 300 Swords of Stellar Light to hold back the two hammers, causing their might to decrease greatly. His Intrinsic Flying Sword''s flashes were a thousand feet long as they attacked incessantly. The might of a supreme-grade Numinous treasure was enough to match Bear Mountain in battle.


    "They are actually equal in battle?"


    "This Junior Brother Qin really has the means for him to dare accept the challenge."


    "But with Senior Brother Bear Mountain''s body being this powerful, it leaves him completely invincible! As for Junior Brother Qin, his body is much weaker. If he takes the full power of just one strike, he will likely be forced to surrender due to serious injuries."


    Everyone spoke their mind.


    Beings with powerful bodies were just like that.


    Although they looked like they were taking light injuries, the effect on them was basically negligible.


    "To think I still can''t take him down. The might of his flying sword is actually in no way inferior to mine." Bear Mountain was beginning to feel a little anxious as well.


    "It''s about time." A glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    "Boom!!!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword''s flash suddenly expanded to ten thousand feet wide, as its might reached a brand new level.


    "What?" Bear Mountain felt that the Dao Exchange Platform''s void was being subjected to a formless repression. At that moment, the pressure bore down on his body, making his body feel heavier. It was ten times heavier than the pressure that came from the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s stellar forces.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword, which had a sword flash extending ten thousand feet, appeared like Pangu''s ax that split apart the Chaos as it cleaved down mightily.


    Before touching Bear Mountain, he could feel that the repression was enough to make him suffer great pain.


    "I''ll block it." Bear Mountain raised his hammers to block his front.


    "Bam!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword smote the hammers.


    An incredible impact made Bear Mountain fly back involuntarily. He did not stop for several kilometers. When the ten-thousand-feet long Intrinsic Flying Sword came cleaving down again, Bear Mountain could only desperately fend it off with his pair of axes.


    "Bam!" "Bam!" "Bam!" "Bam!" "Bam!" "Bam!"


    Six extremely heavy strikes hit him consecutively.


    Every strike left Bear Mountain retreating.


    Although he had a hideous look on his face as he tried his best to fend off the strikes amid angry roars, he was unable to withstand the terrifying force! He was famous for his strength¡­ but the might of Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was even more formidable. Before the flying sword arrived, the spatial repression it conjured was already too horrifying.


    "Pfft!"


    Bear Mountain''s body slammed through the Dao Exchange Platform''s barrier as he flew out of the arena.


    Six consecutive strikes!


    Each like the mighty cleave of Pangu''s ax!


    The six strikes were also like a blacksmith''s heavy blows!


    In a blink of an eye, the strikes smashed Bear Mountain out of the Dao Exchange Platform''s zone.


    "Pfft." Bear Mountain spewed out blood from his mouth. He looked in disbelief at Qin Yun and at his feet. He was already floating in midair, already out of the Dao Exchange Platform''s boundary.


    "I¡­ lost?" Bear Mountain found it unbelievable.


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain has lost?"


    "Junior Brother Qin won?"


    Everyone was stunned.


    When Bear Mountain revealed his battle magi Dharmic formulation, most Green Touring Palace disciples believed that Bear Mountain was likely to clinch victory.


    However, the outcome was unbelievable.


    "Qin Yun, he¡­" Even Ancestral Master Zhang found it unbelievable.


    "Impressive. Impressive." Dragon King Ao Fang nodded.


    And standing on a cloud far away, the white-robed Senior Brother Sa Xu said with a smile, "Interesting. He actually managed to master Eldest Senior Brother''s Five Elemental Sword Sutra. From the looks of it, his Intrinsic Flying Sword has reached the supreme-grade Numinous treasure level. However, his Dharmic powers are relatively weaker. If he can raise his Dharmic powers, he could probably threaten a mighty figure or two. And although he might not be a threat to mighty figures at present, he is definitely the cream of the crop among ninth firmament Skyimmortals."


    "Was that sword move from before Eldest Senior Brother''s Five Elemental Sword Sutra?"


    "Yes, I cultivated in the Five Elemental Sword Sutra before. Although Junior Brother Qin''s strike had a few modifications, it should still be the Five Elemental Sword Mountain from the Five Elemental Sword Sutra. However, this strike requires a deep understanding of the five elements. Junior Brother Qin has only cultivated for a relatively short time. How is he able to deliver such an attack?"


    "Five Elemental Sword Sutra? Eldest Senior Brother''s Five Elemental Sword Sutra?"


    "This strike bears great resemblance to the Five Elemental Sword Sutra''s Five Elemental Sword Mountain, but there are differences as well."


    Many sharp-eyed Green Touring Palace disciples were astonished.


    The Green Touring Palace''s Eldest Senior Brother held an extremely high standing in the Three Realms.


    His Five Elemental Sword Sutra was naturally witnessed by many. However, most people who saw it would be like Qin Yun, lacking the courage to truly cultivate in it.


    It was because it was overly complicated.


    Choosing any of the Five Directions and Five Elements and cultivating it to an extremely profound state was enough to make one a Golden Immortal.


    In that case, why did one need to simultaneously study all five elements?


    "His body is too strong. All I can do is send him out of the arena," thought Qin Yun.


    His strike was none other than the Five Elemental Sword Sutra''s Five Elemental Sword Mountain.


    After his Intrinsic Flying Sword broke through, Qin Yun discovered the concept of baffling Chaos within his Intrinsic Flying Sword. It was formed from the extraction of the Chaos Pure Gold. It gave him inspiration and, after pondering over it, his insights grew deeper. His Sword Dao also turned more profound. He even gained a new appreciation of the five sword manuals he cultivated, allowing him to view them from a different angle.


    For instance, the Five Elemental Sword Mountain¡­ appeared to have been the result of deep study into the five elements, fusing them together before combining them to produce such an utterly devastating attack.


    "Chaos is the source of everything. Be it the Heavenly Cycle cosmos, or the Five Directions and Five Elements, just grasping a hint of the baffling Chaos concept allows many strikes to immediately be perfected when delivered. My Cyclic Sword Flash has become more perfected as a result. I was able to cast Five Elemental Sword Mountain with some modifications as well," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    There was an uproar around Dao Exchange Platform. This battle had indeed left everyone in shock.


    Bear Mountain stood in midair, dazed for quite a while before he flew towards Dao Exchange Platform and landed in front of Qin Yun.


    "Junior Brother Qin." Bear Mountain looked at Qin Yun. "I''ve lost and have nothing more to say." With a flip of his hand, he took out the Five Fires Calabash.


    "This is yours."


    He threw the Five Fires Calabash at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun grabbed it while Bear Mountain turned around and flew off.

 493 Fame Final Chapter of Volume

    As he watched Bear Mountain''s figure depart, Qin Yun thought to himself, "Had I not gained insights into the baffling Chaos concept from my Intrinsic Flying Sword, I might have lost! I have to be more careful in the future. These old guys might be hiding some powerful things up their sleeves. If I had not fought him, the secret of him mastering the battle magic body-tempering Dharmic formulation would have remained a secret. Back when Senior Brother Zhang dealt with Empyrean Lord Kuifu, he said he was eighty percent confident, but in the end, Kuifu still managed to escape."


    "No matter what the battle, I must not be blinded by confidence. Before considering victory, I should consider the possibility of defeat." After Qin Yun entered Green Touring Palace, his strength had increased by leap and bounds. He was becoming more and more spirited.


    On his mission to kill Old Fiend Fire Puppet, although he ultimately killed Demon King Prestige Goat, Old Fiend Fire Puppet had escaped.


    In his battle with Bear Mountain, he had just barely knocked him away.


    Clearly, there were forever infinite possibilities when it came to true combat.


    "Junior Brother Qin, your flying sword arts are truly impressive."


    "Junior Brother Qin, you managed to defeat Senior Brother Bear Mountain after just over ten years of being in Green Touring Palace. Impressive."


    "Junior Brother Qin¡­"


    Several Green Touring Palace disciples came forward to congratulate him.


    Among them were officials in the Heavenly Courts. Some were hegemons of their dominions, others had established their own sects, while others were subordinates of mighty figures¡­


    But at that moment, all of them were the same in that they were rather friendly. There even some who had never interacted with Qin Yun before that came over to exchange a few words to acquaint themselves with him!


    In the Three Realms¡­


    Strength was ultimately the most important thing!


    Qin Yun was an Essence Soul sword immortal. His two great divine powers were rather impressive, and the might of his flying sword was able to repress Bear Mountain. Anyone could tell that, although Qin Yun would find it increasingly difficult to raise his strength in time to come, the moment he broke through, he could even threaten mighty figures in a way or two!


    ¡­


    "Senior Brother Sa, should we go meet Junior Brother Qin?" said an azure-robed Daoist with a smile. A distance away, Qin Yun was busy socializing with his fellow disciples.


    "I''m already contented. It''s time to return," said the white-robed Senior Brother Sa Xu.


    "You aren''t going over?" The azure-robed Daoist was surprised.


    "There''s no need to." Senior Brother Sa Xu directly flew away as the azure-robed Daoist followed immediately. "By the way, Senior Brother Sa, what do you think of Junior Brother Qin?"


    "He''s not bad. However, it will be difficult for him to have another sharp increase in strength," said Sa Xu indifferently. "There are two evident paths for him. One, he creates a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage. That will raise his Dharmic powers to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal. This will be the most obvious increase in strength, something that will allow him to match mighty figures. Second, he could focus on cultivating in divine powers. Essence Soul Earth Immortals who wish to become famous in the Three Realms can only rely on divine powers due to their inferior Dharmic powers! If he gains phenomenal success in the divine powers¡­ I won''t dare to say he can match mighty figures, but it wouldn''t be a problem for him to escape with his life after trading nearly a hundred blows with mighty figures. That would already enough for him to reign supreme in the Three Realms. But both of these two paths are extremely difficult."


    "I heard that his two great divine powers were the great divine powers of the ancient Heavenly Thearch," said the azure-robed Daoist immediately. "If he cultivates them to the perfected state, he will even be able to kill mighty figures. Even the combined forces of about ten mighty figures can be trapped with the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm."


    "However, ever since the Ancient Heavenly Courts was destroyed, no one has been able to cultivate it to perfection," said Sa Xu.


    "That''s true," said the azure-robed Daoist. "However, Junior Brother Qin managed to attain initial success after cultivating the two great divine powers for about ten plus years. If he continues at that rate¡­"


    "He might have chance of gaining phenomenal success, but as for perfection? I think it''s something that can wait until he attains a Golden Immortal Dao fruit." Sa Xu smiled as he flew out of the void with the azure-robed Daoist in tow. There were few Green Touring Palace disciples that dared converse with Sa Xu for such a long time.


    Senior Brother Sa Xu was extremely powerful.


    He had a high standing in the Three Realms as well. The Heavenly Courts had even repeatedly invited him to be a high official in the Heavenly Courts!


    However, Sa Xu was just too arrogant! He had a bad temper!


    Few fellow disciples could catch his eye to the point of him making the effort to engage with them. Over time, ordinary Green Touring Palace disciples learned to keep a respectable distance from him.


    ******


    "Junior Brother Qin, congratulations." The three pig demon brothers came forward on their own accord.


    "Senior Brothers," greeted Qin Yun politely.


    "Junior Brother Qin, you sure have broadened our horizons." The eldest was very humble as he chuckled and said, "You were able to modify the Five Directions Sword Mountain from Eldest Senior Brother''s Five Directions Sword Sutra but still produce such astonishing strength. I''m truly impressed."


    Mastering it was very difficult.


    Modifying it while maintaining its strength was even harder.


    "I''m impressed as well." The youngest brother was most unctuous. He immediately said, "That fellow Bear Mountain is silly. Those demons with heinous sins may not be fiendcelestials, but they are almost no different from one. They deserve death. Killing them can even brighten the light providence shines on us demons! The reputation of us demons is largely sullied by these demons who have committed heinous sins. I, on the other hand, have always been aligned with good."


    "This I know. Who in Green Touring Palace doesn''t know about your trio''s reputation?" said Qin Yun with a smile.


    The pig demon trio''s old nest was in the Heavenly realm.


    What sort of place was the Heavenly realm?


    That was the core region of the Three Realms. The Heavenly Courts and the Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous were there. It was a place filled with experts and people of all sorts of natures. By surviving in the Three Realms, the pig demon trio was more aware than most of how they should act to live longer.


    After a while spent handling the numerous fellow disciples, Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang flew out of the void together.


    "Qin Yun," Ancestral Master Zhang said with a smile. "You were previously an itinerant cultivator and could only cultivate by trial and error. I long guessed that you would soar the moment you entered Green Touring Palace. Still, I never expected you to come this far after cultivating for ten plus years in Green Touring Palace."


    "It will be harder to raise my strength to the next level," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    ¡­


    "Senior Brother Bear Mountain, that Qin Yun only barely managed to injure you. That bit of injury is nothing worth mentioning to you. If this was a life-and-death battle, perhaps the one who ultimately lost would have been him."


    "Yes, Senior Brother Bear Mountain now has a secondary focus on battle magi body-tempering. His body is so powerful that no one can do a thing about him if they aren''t mighty figures." Several of the demon disciples followed Bear Mountain while expressing their disgruntlement.


    However, Bear Mountain remained calm. He glanced at the few demons beside him with his calm eyes.


    The demons felt their hearts skip a beat when swept by that gaze.


    "I, Bear Mountain, am not a sore loser!" Bear Mountain said in a deep voice.


    He did not care about merit or sin.


    He paid more attention to strength! He believed that everything depended on one''s fists!


    Back when the Ancient Heavenly Courts fell, his opinion was that the Ancient Heavenly Courts was not strong enough to prevent its destruction. If one had the power to suppress the Three Realms, one would naturally rule over it.


    He had been filled with confidence, but at the instant he was sent off the Dao Exchange Platform¡­ he was shocked deep down despite only having negligible injuries.


    Qin Yun was only an Essence Soul sword immortal!


    How long had he cultivated? Yet, he was already able to repress him?


    What right did he have to feel complacent about mastering the battle magi body-tempering?


    "Your Highness¡­"


    "I''m still not strong enough."


    Bear Mountain said silently, "I''m still too weak. But at least in this territory of the Effulgent dominion, I, Bear Mountain, will definitely protect our demons'' standing."


    ******


    News of this battle did not spread wildly in the Three Realms. After all, it was only a battle at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal level.


    But the battle still had great influence in the Effulgent dominion.


    Although Bear Mountain was defeated, he became more famous. Everyone now knew that this Demon King Bear Mountain had mastered a battle magi body tempering Dharmic formulation. His body was now even more terrifying.


    As for Qin Yun''s fame, it was even more astonishing. An Essence Soul sword immortal had cultivated for such a short period of time, but was strong enough to repress Bear Mountain! The momentum of his rise left many people who paid attention to him astounded.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend world.


    This was a Small World where the highest leader of the Effulgent dominion''s fiendish way, Fiend Supremacy, resided in. Fiend Supremacy''s strength matched that of mighty figures and since he was in a Small World, mighty figures could not descend down into it with their true bodies. In addition, the construction of the Tenebrous Fiend world had been done with the help of Ancestral Fiends. Several Ancestral Fiends had made efforts to ensure the Tenebrous Fiend world was an impregnable world.


    It was tens, if not a hundred times, more terrifying than Yellow-robed Supremacy''s Skywolf world.


    After all, Skywolf world was mainly built with Yellow-robed Supremacy''s strength, while Tenebrous Fiend world had been established with the help of several fiendish mighty figures.


    A large number of Skyfiends resided in here.


    For instance, Roc Fiend, Old Fiend Fire Puppet, and others had fled back to this world. Empyrean Lord Kuifu had similarly fled back here.


    "What?"


    Kuifu sat cross-legged in a dark cave abode which had black mist emanating his surroundings.


    "Brother Kuifu, the news isn''t wrong. Demon King Bear Mountain had indeed mastered a battle magi body tempering Dharmic formulation, greatly improving his strength! As for Qin Yun, he was even more impressive. His Intrinsic Flying Sword cast a move from the Five Directions Sword Sutra, throwing Demon King Bear Mountain off of the Dao Exchange Platform," an incorporeal figure beside him said.


    "Help me gather more detailed information of Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament," instructed Kuifu.


    "Yes, yes. I''ll definitely do my best," said the incorporeal figure fawningly before it dissipated.


    Kuifu''s expression turned darker and colder.


    "Darn it."


    "I thought this Qin Yun only became more powerful because of his two great divine powers. I never imagined his flying sword arts to become even more powerful. He''s stronger than when he defeated Roc Fiend and Old Fiend Fire Puppet."


    "Daoist Divine Firmament is already a tough one. Now, there''s the addition of Qin Yun. It''s getting more and more difficult for me to conquer the Great Chang world."


    Kuifu narrowed his eyes. "I''m the only one who knows of the secret of the Great Chang world. It will eventually fall into my hands."


    Following that, he closed his eyes and continued cultivating.


    (End of Volume)

 494 Fiend Supremacy

    Chapter 494: Fiend Supremacy


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As the most important fiendish garrison in the Effulgent dominion, the Tenebrous Fiend world was where many Skyfiends gathered. For instance, Empyrean Lord Kuifu, Old Fiend Fire Puppet, and General Roc Fiend were but some of the more powerful beings in the Tenebrous Fiend world. In terms of strength ranking, they were in the top hundred.


    But the strongest one there was no doubt Fiend Supremacy, the supreme leader of the Tenebrous Fiend world!


    "Whoosh."


    A lanky man with two red curved horns on his forehead walked out of a seclusion chamber. There were many subordinates outside who bowed respectfully, "Fiend Supremacy (Master)."


    "Master, here is the important news regarding the Effulgent dominion from recent years." A Skyfiend handed Fiend Supremacy a dossier reverently.


    Fiend Supremacy took the dossier and, with a gentle wave of his hand, commanded his subordinates to leave respectfully.


    Fiend Supremacy walked to a pavilion before sitting down to peruse the dossier.


    Since he received the mission to come to the Effulgent dominion, he naturally had to deal with many of the fiendish matters in the Effulgent dominion. The more trivial matters¡­ they could be delegated to his subordinates. The matters that were brought to his attention were the more important ones.


    "Oh? War has erupted in Flying Mountain world again?" Fiend Supremacy frowned as he read the information in the dossier. He immediately summoned, "Blackrock."


    Immediately, a figure appeared beside him. It was a Skyfiend whose body was cast from rock. He happened to be the famous ninth firmament Skyfiend of the Effulgent dominion¡ªGeneral Blackrock. He also cultivated in a Fiendbody and his strength was above General Roc Fiend''s.


    General Blackrock greeted politely, "Fiend Supremacy."


    "Are you aware of what''s going on in the Flying Mountain world?" asked Fiend Supremacy.


    "I am. Six Daoist sects have combined forces. They apparently wish to occupy the entire Flying Mountain world. They struck with a terrifying and swift force. They held the absolute advantage in strength and we have already lost large pieces of territory," said General Blackrock respectfully. "General Wind is now leading the Skyfiends, but they are only barely able to defend Mt. North Fish."


    "Flying Mountain world is quite a wonderland. In the past, it was only through a bloody war that we fiends managed to occupy half of Flying Mountain world," said Flying Mountain world lightly. "All these years, the Daoists have occupied half of it, while us fiends occupy the other half. Since the Daoists have attacked, we shall oblige them! Blackrock, you are to take your troops and personally reinforce them. No matter what, we fiends must occupy at least half of Flying Mountain world."


    "Yes," said General Blackrock respectfully.


    "Go ahead," instructed Fiend Supremacy.


    General Blackrock bowed slightly before vanishing into thin air.


    Fiend Supremacy continued reading the dossier. From time to time, he would summon three of his subordinates to give them various orders. As he had only entered an ordinary seclusion this time, not many major matters had happened in the Effulgent dominion! If he had entered a prolonged seclusion, he would have arranged for an avatar to administer over such matters.


    "Oh?"


    When he flipped to the end, Fiend Supremacy frowned. "Qin Yun?"


    "He has raised his strength so quickly? To be able to create a Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation means that his perceptivity is astounding, but¡­ an Essence Soul sword immortal is actually able to repress Demon King Bear Mountain?" That was the final piece of news in the dossier.


    "Sister Kuishi," said Fiend Supremacy.


    Hua!


    A red beam flashed to reveal a red-robed woman. She had four extremely sharp horns on her head. Her face was partially covered in black scales. The moment she appeared, she said with a smile, "Brother, why are you suddenly requesting for me?"


    Her name was Palatial Lord Kuishi. Her strength was enough to rank her in the top three of all the Skyfiends in the Tenebrous Fiend world. She was one of the two Palatial Lords that had a standing only inferior to that of Fiend Supremacy. She was a lot stronger than Old Fiend Fire Puppet or General Roc Fiend.


    "There''s a matter that will probably require you to take action," said Fiend Supremacy.


    Kuishi asked in astonishment, "What is it?"


    "The Effulgent dominion has produced a powerful cultivator," said Fiend Supremacy. "His name is Qin Yun. Despite having cultivated for mere decades, he is already strong enough to repress Demon King Bear Mountain! Although there is no need to fear his strength at present, he has achieved too much in too short a time. It has only been a few decades. Even if he had rare encounters, this rate of cultivation still leaves me alarmed."


    "I have heard of this Qin Yun. I heard that it hasn''t been long since he was recruited into Green Touring Palace. He''s rather powerful." Kuishi nodded.


    "Given his cultivation speed, it''s possible for him to reach my level," said Fiend Supremacy. "He is a Daoist disciple, fated to be my enemy. Sister Kuishi, I would request you to take action and rid us of him ahead of time."


    "Alright." Kuishi nodded. "Brother, don''t worry. I''ll prepare to set off now. By the way, where is he now? If he''s in Green Touring Palace, I won''t be able to do a thing."


    "I''ll check."


    Fiend Supremacy nodded and closed his eyes.


    Moments later.


    He opened his eyes and shook his head gently. "I''ve asked my good friends. At present, the Qin Yun in the Great Chang world is only an avatar. My friend has searched the Three Realms, but has failed to find Qin Yun''s true body. It''s likely that he is in Green Touring Palace! Green Touring Palace is the Dao Ancestor''s Dao residence. It cannot be spied upon."


    "Sister, wait for now. Once Qin Yun exits Green Touring Palace, I''ll inform you immediately," said Fiend Supremacy.


    "Alright, I''ll be ready to set off at any time," said Kuishi with a smile.


    Fiend Supremacy nodded.


    He was the supreme leader of the Effulgent dominion''s fiendish way. A lot of attention was placed on him, be it the Daoists or Buddhists, or even the heavenly troops of the Heavenly Courts. He naturally could not act impetuously. A single Qin Yun did not warrant him taking action personally.


    Requesting Kuishi to do the deed was already attaching great importance to Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world.


    Half a year after the battle at Dao Exchange Platform.


    In a spatial passageway that connected to the mirror lake in Qin Manor.


    Dragons walked out of the spatial passageway, and leading them was Dragon King Ao Fang''s avatar. A large number of dragons were behind him, either in avatar form or their true forms! Those that came in their true forms were at the third firmament True Dragon realm at most.


    "That many dragons?" Yi Xiao was somewhat astonished.


    "Mom, look. Those right at the back are all at the True Dragon realm." Qin Yiyi''s voice transmission sounded excited. "All the True Dragons in the Great Chang world added up probably don''t equal this, right? Besides, many of them are Skydragon avatars. The Great Chang world only has one East Sea Skydragon."


    Qin Yun went forward with his wife and daughter. He greeted loudly, "Senior Brother Ao."


    "Junior Brother Qin." Ao Fang walked over with a smile. The group of Skydragon avatars behind him, as well as many of the other dragons, carried gifts.


    "We have been rebuilding our society in the Dragon Mountain world recently. I just returned to the Effulgent World yesterday," said Ao Fang with a smile. "Many dragons wish to meet you, so I could only open up a passageway to allow them to visit."


    Qin Yun swept them with a gaze.


    Many of the Skydragon avatars held gifts; they were either nervous or curious.


    In terms of strength, it was difficult to find dragons that matched Qin Yun in the Effulgent dominion. Even Dragon King Ao Fang was weaker than Qin Yun. These dragons treated Qin Yun with fearful reverence.


    "You brought so many gifts," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "It''s only necessary. It''s all thanks to you that we managed to take back Dragon Mountain world," said Ao Fang with a smile. Following that, he noticed Yi Xiao and Qin Yiyi beside him. "Junior Brother Qin, you sure are fated with us dragons. Both your wife and daughter are dragons."


    Yi Xiao stood calmly beside Qin Yun, but Qin Yiyi was filled with excitement.


    She had never seen so many dragons before!


    "Let''s go. We shouldn''t just be standing here." Qin Yun smiled as he led the way. Ao Fang walked in with him. The dragons made their way across the mirror lake''s surface and offered up their gifts.


    In response, the servants of Qin Manor received the gifts.


    As servants of Qin Manor, they saw more than the average servant. The dragons from the Four Seas in the Great Chang world often visited. Too many dragons had come and they were all very powerful. It still left these servants secretly alarmed. They were very careful when receiving the gift boxes, afraid that they would break something.


    "Junior Brother Qin, the you I''m speaking to now is an avatar. Is your true body in seclusion?" Ao Fang asked Qin Yun as he walked by his side.


    "Yes, it''s cultivating in seclusion." Qin Yun nodded.


    It was not difficult to condense an avatar.


    His Essence Soul Dharmic powers were pure enough to make him match that of a third firmament Skyimmortal of the Grand Supreme lineage. It was naturally easy for him to condense an avatar.


    As his current seclusion carried the possibility of being a long one, he deliberately left an avatar in his homeworld to accompany his wife and daughter.

 495 The One that the Dao begets

    Chapter 495: The One that the Dao begets


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao accompanied Ao Fang and the rest of the Skydragons into a hall.


    The other True Dragon realm dragon children waited outside since they were just too many of them. The tiny guest hall could not contain so many dragons.


    "Yiyi, bring them somewhere they can rest," instructed Qin Yun.


    "Yes, Dad." Qin Yiyi smiled as she walked out the hall and said, "Everyone, please follow me."


    In a courtyard in Qin Manor.


    Qin Yiyi led the dragons to sit down inside the courtyard. As she smiled and waved her hand, clouds rose around her. In the distance were the boundless firmaments. There was the gorgeous radiance of the sun rising, with divine birds flying gracefully in the sky. Floating islands peeked in and out of sight.


    "This is?" The True Dragon realm dragons were somewhat astonished by the sudden appearance of this scene.


    "It''s my dad''s," said Qin Yiyi with a smile. "He has set up numerous array formations in Qin Manor. This one is a hallucination array. It''s said that even ordinary Skyimmortals can forget about escaping once they get trapped in it. He gave me control over some of the array formations and I thought that I might as well initiate the hallucination array. Even when it''s not being used to trap an enemy, the scenery is so beautiful and realistic that we can use it for enjoyment."


    "This hallucination array sure is impressive. None of us can see through it."


    "Miss Qin, how impressive of you to control this array just to make pretty scenery."


    The dragon children fawned over Qin Yiyi.


    Qin Yiyi¡­


    She was the daughter of the Great Chang world''s Sword Immortal Qin. In the Effulgent dominion, Sword Immortal Qin was now famous. In the future, he was likely going to be one of the most terrifying beings in the Effulgent dominion! The dragons in the Effulgent dominion might one day be relying on this extremely influential figure.


    With Qin Yiyi''s status, this group of dragon children were naturally willing to pander to her and befriend her.


    Speaking of which, the dragons were considered a rather powerful species in the Three Realms, but compared to the Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, and the fiends¡­ the dragons by themselves were too weak.


    Ninety percent of the dragon forces had occupied a single dominion!


    The remaining force was scattered across the Three Realms, making it appear much weaker. Even so, the dragons were friendly to all. They had good ties with the Heavenly Courts, the Daoists, and the Buddhists. They were also open to investing in the other cultures. For instance, the Heavenly Courts also had Dragon Kings. The Buddhists had Divine Dragon Guardians. There were even more dragons that became disciples of Daoists mighty figures. The fact that a single species alone could proliferate all across the Three Realms was quite impressive.


    After all, they were one of the strongest ranked forces in the Three Realms.


    ¡­


    That evening, Ao Fang bade farewell and led the dragons away.


    "Brother Yun, the gifts given by the dragons are quite valuable," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "Even the fact that you helped them conquer the Dragon Mountain world again does not merit such gifts. It looks like they are going out of their way to befriend you."


    "Since they have given it, keep it." Qin Yun nodded. "Back when I saved you, it was all thanks to Puqu Dragonlord. I''m very grateful for that! Besides, both you and Yiyi are dragons. It''s only right to be closer to dragons."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    "Dad, Mom."


    Qin Yiyi walked in from outside and immediately said obsequiously, "Have a seat, I want to talk about something."


    Following that, she helped Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sit down.


    "This girl," said Qin Yun as he smiled sitting down. "Just tell us what''s on your mind."


    After letting her parents sit, Qin Yiyi said, "Dad, I plan on adventuring outside."


    "Adventuring outside?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    Yi Xiao asked, "Where do you plan on going?"


    "I wish to go to the Effulgent Great World. It''s such a massive place. There are countless immortals, demons, and fiends there. There are many wonderlands. I wish to experience them all." Qin Yiyi looked nervously at her parents.


    "Brother Yun, see? I told you long ago that this daughter of ours would eventually fail to resist the allures of the outside world," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    Qin Yiyi was taken aback.


    "Your mom guessed it a long time ago," said Qin Yun with a smile. "You are after all still young. Of course you''d eventually get sick of staying with your parents in the Great Chang world."


    "I''m not sick of it," Qin Yiyi answered anxiously.


    "I know," said Qin Yun. "I have no problems with you going to the Effulgent Great World, but you will have to follow my arrangements."


    "Sure!" Qin Yiyi nodded her head immediately, looking as obedient as ever.


    Her childhood experiences made her yearn a familial relationship, but after spending more than ten years in the Great Chang world with her parents, her heart was slowly itching to get out. She wanted to see new sights, and see more beings of all kinds.


    Still, she knew enough to mind her father''s arrangement.


    After all, she knew that the world was very dangerous.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was very approving of his daughter''s adventuring.


    But most important was his daughter''s safety!


    Qin Yun naturally made all the arrangements. He even gave her some of the life preservation items he obtained from the first round of tests in Green Touring Palace.


    "Boom!!!"


    A spatial passageway was formed.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched as their daughter flew towards the spatial passageway.


    Qin Yiyi smiled as she looked back at her parents before venturing deep into the spatial passageway. Moments later, she was in the Effulgent dominion.


    The void rippled apart.


    An underwater palace appeared in the distance. Qin Yiyi had arrived in a place near Ao Fang and a several other dragons.


    "Junior Brother Qin, don''t worry. We dragons will naturally protect Yiyi''s wellbeing as long as she''s here with us," said Dragon King Ao Fang with a laugh.


    "Sorry for troubling you, Senior Brother," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "It''s nothing," said Ao Fang with a smile.


    As for the Skydragons beside Ao Fang, they muttered softly.


    "Now that this missus is here, we have to work hard at watching her. If something happens to her, we would be in trouble."


    "Those unruly dragon boys in the clan are to be warned. They are not to cause trouble for us."


    "This missus of Qin Manor is not one they can offend."


    They conversed via voice transmissions.


    Dragons were promiscuous to begin with. It was common for male dragons to spread their seed across the world.


    But they were not to place their sights on this Qin Yiyi, or there was no way they could answer to Sword Immortal Qin.


    ******


    Green Touring Palace. Stellar Sea.


    Stellar Sea was a cultivation ground in Green Touring Palace. Here there were stars floating, and each star spanned hundreds of kilometers wide. More than ten thousand stars were constantly moving in a complex fashion.


    On one of the stars.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the surface of the star, which was extremely solid.


    There were more than a thousand disciples cultivating in the sea of stars. Each disciple occupied their individual star, not disturbing one another.


    "Out."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out as it circled his surroundings. It was like a dream or a mirage, as the might of the sword began to slowly brew in intensity.


    But what appeared as a surreal and gentle water-like sword flash had a terrifying sword might surge from within.


    "Destroy." Qin Yun had a look of anticipation in his eyes.


    "Boom!!!"


    In the infinite dreamy sword flashes, a black sword flash suddenly seemed to rip open the void. Even the Stellar Sea which was left behind by the Dao Ancestor, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, produced torrential void ripples.


    "I''ve mastered it." Qin Yun nodded when he saw this. "One of the three most powerful death blows of the Only Me Sword Song, Earth-shattering Heaven Battering, has finally been mastered."


    "It''s time to head to the next spot."


    Qin Yun left Stellar Sea.


    He came to another cultivation ground, Wind Valley, in Green Touring Palace.


    ¡­


    Stellar Sea, Wind Valley, Void Island, Broken Sword Valley, Mt. Five Directions¡­


    Qin Yun headed for each cultivation ground in the Green Touring Palace, one-by-one, cultivating the move that suited each location the best.


    Back when his Intrinsic Flying Sword extracted the powers of the Chaos Pure Gold and transformed into an intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure, even his flying sword gained a wisp of the baffling Chaos concept. Qin Yun gained inspiration from it while studying it, and managed to master and adapt the Five Directions Sword Mountain of the Five Directions Sword Sutra. With that move, he managed to defeat Bear Mountain.


    After defeating Bear Mountain, Qin Yun notified his wife before beginning seclusion in Green Touring Palace.


    He felt that the wisp of baffling Chaos concept was extremely important to his Sword Dao. He naturally had to strike while the iron was hot. As he contemplated over the Chaos concept, he took the opportunity to cultivate the Hundred Great White Yang Metal Sword Art, Five Directions Sword Sutra, Netherfiend Records, and the other sword manuals.


    And in fact, by truly focusing his mind, he managed to gain even more as the days went by ever since he contemplated over the baffling Chaos concept.


    "Dao begets One, One begets Two, Two begets Three, Three begets all things."


    "The foundation of my Sword Dao was split into Heaven, Earth, and Man when I stepped into the Dao. This is the so-called Three."


    "And this baffling Chaos concept¡­"


    "It feels more like it''s the essence of the Dao."


    "Could it be the One that the Dao begets?"

 496 Palatial Lord Kuishi

    Chapter 496: Palatial Lord Kuishi


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Time passed, and in a blink of an eye, it had been eight years since the battle with Demon King Bear Mountain.


    Qin Yun had also fully integrated the wisp of the baffling Chaos concept into his Sword Dao. He also reached a deeper, more profound level of cultivation in the five sword manuals.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend world. In a hall of Kuishi Palace.


    A beautiful woman with four sharp curved horns was half-slumped in her throne. Beside her were four handsome male slaves who served her with utmost care. They were trembling in fear, for just moments ago a handsome male slave had dropped a grape he had deskinned accidentally. He was swallowed whole by the Palatial Lord.


    Palatial Lord Kuishi rubbed the blood from the corner of her mouth with her finger as she extended her long tongue to lick it, wiping off all traces of blood from her lips. The four male slaves turned even more careful after that.


    "Sister Kuishi, Qin Yun has returned to his homeworld, the Great Chang world." A voice resounded in the hall.


    "Oh?"


    Palatial Lord Kuishi furrowed her brows a little as the corner of her mouth curled slightly. She gently waved her hand as the four male slaves reverently took their leave.


    "Brother, is there anything that I should be wary of in the Great Chang world?" inquired Palatial Lord Kuishi.


    "The Great Chang world has Daoist Divine Firmament, who is also a Green Touring Palace disciple. However, he poses no threat to you. Your target is Qin Yun." The voice continued resounding in the hall. "The present him poses little threat, but if he is allowed to continue to grow, the threat he''ll pose in the future would be immense. You have to kill him during this operation."


    "Brother, don''t worry. Leave it to me. I believe this Sword Immortal Qin¡­ will definitely be quite delicious." Palatial Lord Kuishi flipped her hand and held a trident.


    With a whoosh, Palatial Lord Kuishi transformed into a black stream of light before leaving the palace.


    She first flew out of the Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "Great Chang world?"


    Kuishi''s single step allowed her to traverse the void. She had used Major Void Transference.


    Skyimmortals who could cast Void Transference by themselves¡­ would typically be those that reached the seventh firmament Skyimmortal realm. However, Void Transference was limited in distance. It was typically tens of thousands of kilometers, and at most hundreds of kilometers! To travel through the starry cosmos? It would take an immense amount of time going from one planet to another. Just Void Transference alone would be extremely demanding, much less traversing the cosmos.


    As for Major Void Transference, that was typically for those that had a extremely profound grasp of the void. They could cast Major Void Transference without any external items, and they would mostly have reached the half-step Golden Immortal realm.


    What was a half-step Golden Immortal?


    It referred to those that could exchange a multitude of blows with Golden Immortals and Buddhas, delivering attacks that could even threaten mighty figures. They strengths were already very close to Golden Immortals and Buddhas!


    And it was because their realms were extremely high could they cast Major Void Transference!


    For instance, Ancestral Master Zhang¡­ was unable to cast Major Void Transference despite reaching the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm and being rather perceptive.


    It was the same with Qin Yun.


    However Kuishi was able to cast Major Void Transference by herself! From this alone¡ªwithout the use of external objects¡ªone could tell just her realm alone was already extremely high. She was already very close to the level of a Ancestral Fiend mighty figure.


    "Whoosh."


    Dressed in red robes, Kuishi walked through the void with trident in hand.


    She looked at the gigantic planet in front of her.


    "Great Chang world?" Kuishi smiled faintly. "Sword Immortal Qin, an Essence Soul sword immortal who forged a new sword immortal lineage. He must be delicious."


    With a step, she entered deep into the Great Chang world''s clouds. And with another step, she appeared on the surface of the Great Chang world.


    ******


    Great Chang world. Wusu County.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were sitting in a private, elegant room in a restaurant eating some of the local delights. There was a wooden railing by the side of the room, and through it, they could see the performance below. There were women playing the pipa and singing local songs on the stage.


    The female voices and the gentle plucking of the pipa seemed to scratch at one''s heart.


    "Brother Yun, now that Yiyi has been cultivating in the Effulgent Great World for eight years," said Yi Xiao. "Shall we make a trip to the Effulgent Great World?"


    "We?" Qin Yun was astonished. "Xiaoxiao, didn''t you say you would let me accompany you to enjoy the local delicacies since I just returned? Why do you suddenly have thoughts of heading to the Effulgent Great World?"


    "Wusu County is near to our Grand Dominance, but the performances are already so different," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "The Effulgent Great World is so far from us, and it''s the center of the entire Effulgent dominion. There are countless mortals, immortals and fiendish demons. It would definitely be more interesting there."


    Qin Yun smiled with a nod. "Yes, there are many immortals and fiendish demons there. Many of which have integrated themselves into the mortal world."


    "Let''s go take a look," wheedled Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun could not help but laugh at his wife''s actions. "Alright, as you wish. We will head to the Effulgent Great World tomorrow."


    "While we are there, we can see Yiyi, as well as that son of yours from your dream of a hundred years," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "I''ve already told you multiple times about Huan''er''s true parentage," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "I obviously believe you." Yi Xiao smiled with her eyes narrowed.


    Qin Yun was rendered helpless.


    He had a clear conscience, so he had long told his wife.


    But¡­


    Whether he was the biological father was something only Qin Yun really knew.


    "We haven''t met in years. I heard from Sect Master Jade Tripod that Huan''er is doing well." Qin Yun could not help but miss his son. His feelings for Huan''er were in no way inferior to those for his daughter or wife. "On our trip to the Effulgent Great World, I can visit Huan''er as well."


    At that moment¡ª


    Qin Yun felt his heart palpitate. He felt danger rapidly approach him!


    At his present realm, his Dao domain extended out for three hundred kilometers. He was very perceptive of everything that happened within those three hundred kilometers.


    "No good!" Qin Yun suddenly stood up as starlight emitted from his body.


    The dense stellar forces from the boundless cosmos descended as they instantly emanated fifteen hundred kilometers out! Wusu County City, as well as the provincial cities around it, including the mountains,villages, and surrounding counties¡ªspanning a total of fifteen hundred kilometers¡ªwere fully enveloped by Qin Yun''s stellar barrier. It left countless people alarmed.


    They were either practicing their swordplay, calligraphy, toiling in the farms, listening to music, doing business on the streets¡­


    Or they were bragging and bleating to themselves¡­


    However, when the boundless stellar forces descended and swirled around them, it left them confounded. It was unheard of for starlight to descend around them in the daytime.


    And at that moment.


    In the restaurant in Wusu County City.


    Qin Yun was already fully focused.


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying blast surged over.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao stood by Qin Yun''s side, feeling extremely nervous.


    Qin Yun stared ahead. He had already discerned his enemy though the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm divine power! It was a red-robed female Skyfiend who appeared in the sky over Wusu County. She wielded a trident and had four sharp curved horns. The Skyfiend was looking at Qin Yun, and despite the buildings, including the restaurant, blocking their line of sight, she could still see Qin Yun clearly. She grinned at him, her smile alarming him to his very core.


    "It''s her? Palatial Lord Kuishi?" Qin Yun''s heart tightened.


    Her reputation preceded her.


    The fiendish forces that wreaked havoc in the Effulgent dominion for eons had Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud as their supreme leader. That was someone who could truly match that of a Golden Immortal or Buddha.


    And there were three with strength at the half-step Ancestral Fiend level! Palatial Lord Kuishi was one of them.


    "Boom!!!"


    Three emerald green needles tore through the sky and headed straight for the restaurant as they exuded a terrifying fluctuation.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Seal!"


    The 360 Swords of Stellar Light formed a massive barrier of light, enveloping the entirety of Wusu County City. The three needles stabbed into the barrier, causing the barrier to disintegrate after some warping.


    "The surrounding void has long been sealed. There''s no way to do void transference." Qin Yun grabbed his wife.


    "Time to leave."


    He immediately flew into the sky.


    The three needles pursued Qin Yun the moment they pierced through the obstruction from the 360 Swords of Stellar Light.


    "The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm is good at trapping enemies, but it''s not good for defense." Kuishi chuckled. She took a step, her speed far exceeding Qin Yun''s. As she controlled the three needles to attack Qin Yun, she stabbed with the trident in her hand.


    Hua¡ª


    The trident expanded to a hundred thousand feet, like a heavenly column that was suspended above Wusu County City. It stirred the winds and clouds, ripping through the void as it thrust towards Qin Yun.


    The trident''s thrust was even faster than the three emerald needles! Its might was also a lot more terrifying.


    After all, Kuishi cultivated her body. She was famous for engaging in melee combat!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun took a glance as the might of the terrifying trident left him shuddering in fear. If it had been unfettered, perhaps everything in a five hundred kilometer radius would have been pulverized. Qin Yun had only managed to protect the mortals by using his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm to dampen the auxiliary shockwaves.

 497 Tail

    Chapter 497: Tail


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In fact, even if Qin Yun did not protect the mortals, it was unlikely that Palatial Lord Kuishi would pulverize the surroundings! Although the fiendish way was evil, most Skyfiends were still concerned with karma.


    Once their sins reached the state of giving them a Sinful Sanguine Halo, they had to be more careful.


    If they went one step further¡­


    The sins would result in Negative Karma Fire! Most Skyfiends would die under Negative Karma Fire.


    Only the two most malevolent lineages, the spirit-devouring lineage and the sea of blood lineage, were unconcerned with mass murder. The cultivation paths took by experts of these two lineages let them become stronger by stepping on the countless corpses of weak beings! One was to devour wantonly, to the point of devouring all life in a world. The other was to use sin as a resource for cultivation. The more sinful they were, the stronger they were. These two lineages were unafraid of sin and massacred mortals in an exaggerated manner.


    Apart from these two lineages, the other fiendish lineages might have been evil, but they had supplementary methods to reduce their sins. But typically, they would be careful and not go overboard when it came to killing mortals! No one wanted to be consumed by Negative Karma Fire.


    On the other hand¡­


    The stronger they were, the greater they were at withstanding karma.


    Kuishi had the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend after all. Even if she killed millions of mortals, it would, at most, give her some headache-inducing trouble! As for true Ancestral Fiends¡­ slaughtering millions of mortals brought just mildly annoying karma.


    Kuishi might not wipe out all life in a five-hundred-kilometer radius, but the aftershocks would cause the deaths of tens of thousands of mortals. That was just trivial to her.


    Qin Yun did not dare bet on that.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun took his wife and flew away.


    "You won''t escape." Kuishi laughed as she thrust out the trident while gripping its other end.


    It felt like she was stirring the entire world.


    The three emerald needles were in front, while the trident that appeared like a massive heavenly column followed. It left an ominous rumbling wherever it passed. The blue skies and white clouds above Wusu County City had long been ripped to shreds, turning into a pitch-black swath of void rifts. Countless mortals inside the city were left shocked as they saw this rapturous scene. Their legs could not help but turn soft.


    Qin Yun also knew it was the critical moment of life and death.


    "This Palatial Lord Kuishi''s control over the void is too potent. It''s completely sealed. I can''t use mementos to contact the outside world. My flying speed is inferior to hers as well. I''m really in danger now." Qin Yun knew how dire his situation was, but he remained austere. With one hand holding his wife''s hand, he waved his other hand. A wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip, as the blurry misty rain naturally formed a gray, blurry barrier of light around him. The entire sword flash barrier protected three thousand feet of his surroundings. It lacked a sharp aura, but remained gray and blurry, as though it was a hazy drizzle.


    The grayish, blurry barrier of light was simple but converged.


    "Puah! Puah! Puah!"


    The three emerald needles stabbed into the gray barrier of light first, but slowed down as if sunk into a quagmire. They sank in silently and caused no further commotion.


    Immediately following was the extremely terrifying trident.


    The trident was extremely sharp and it was massive. It stabbed into the barrier, and all Kuishi felt was a series of barriers. Even though it seemed like she had instantly pierced through more than ten thousand obstructive layers, the momentum of the trident was all gone. The gray barrier continued swirling around Qin Yun; the trident had failed to stab through it.


    "Wasn''t it said that the strongest protection he has is the protective great divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes? Why is this protective sword flash his flying sword produced able to withstand my strike?" Kuishi frowned slightly.


    According to her estimates, her trident should have stabbed through the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes instantly and killed him.


    But now, the sword flashes had defended against her blow! Clearly, what Qin Yun could do did not match the intelligence she received.


    Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief when he saw this.


    After his Intrinsic Flying Sword transformed into a intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure, his Misty Rain Sword became the strongest weapon in his arsenal! It was a lot more powerful than the two great divine powers, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes! The two great divine powers had only attained initial success after all, matching that of ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals. His intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure¡­ could match a Connate Numinous treasure!


    Qin Yun had defeated Bear Mountain by casting Five Elemental Sword Mountain with his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Although Qin Yun''s offensive strength when using his Intrinsic Flying Sword was pretty good, it was best suited for protecting him.


    His Sword Dao pursued the perfection of the Heavenly Cycles. In essence, it made for a peerless defense!


    He had been cultivating in seclusion in Green Touring Palace.


    Over those eight years¡­


    Qin Yun had already gained a profound understanding of the Chaos concept. He had also fully merged it into his own Sword Dao, cultivating the five sword manuals to an even more profound state. He now grasped many powerful moves.


    And his own Sword Dao was even more powerful.


    Although he had cultivated in other defensive moves, such as the Void As One Realm of the Five Elemental Sword Sutra, as well as the Myriad Flower Sword World of the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was different from those of the two seniors who created the two manuals! His Sword Dao pursued the perfection of the Heavenly Cycles. His Sword Dao alone could easily transform into a Heavenly Cycle defensive move.


    Therefore, even back when Qin Yun was still a mortal, he was adept using the Cyclic Sword Flash.


    As time passed, this move still remained his strongest one.


    Over the eight years, he had infused that Chaos concept into his Sword Dao. He had also learned a variety of sword moves, and after his Sword Dao accumulated to a certain extent, he naturally gained insights into a more powerful Cyclic Sword Flash.


    This move¡ª


    "This move is a manifestation of my Sword Dao. Most important of all is the Chaos concept I infused into it. This attack can now be called the Chaos Cyclic Sword Flash. In terms of defensive might, it''s superior to the Five Elemental Sword Sutra''s Void As One Realm and the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart''s Myriad Flower Sword World!" This was also the first time Qin Yun was using this move against an enemy. It ended up being fully capable of fending off Kuishi who had the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend. He was originally a bit uneasy, but after seeing the outcome, he felt a little more confident.


    "Take this too!" Qin Yun roared.


    At that moment, the 360 Swords of Stellar Light moved surprisingly fast as they surrounded Kuishi.


    The Swords of Stellar Light spun around like a vortex, grinding at Kuishi who was in the middle.


    She scoffed. Despite the sword flashes grinding at her body, black scales surfaced on her body. The Swords of Stellar Light failed to damage those black scales in any way.


    "I cultivate my body and am even capable of fighting with Golden Immortals and Buddhas. Why would these mere tricks of yours matter to me?" Kuishi ignored the attacks of Qin Yun''s Swords of Stellar Light.


    "The gap between us is just too huge. I can''t threaten her at all. I can only forcibly resist." Qin Yun was cognizant of his limits.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The three emerald needles flew back to Kuishi''s side. With the trident in hand, she did a cursory sweep of her surroundings, and, like a heavenly column sweeping across the area, it shattered all the Swords of Stellar Light.


    This astounding might left Qin Yun''s eyelids twitching.


    "If you have what it takes, try taking this strike again!" Kuishi held the trident with both hands as the might she exuded elevated greatly. She thrust the trident out once more.


    "Boom!!!"


    With this stab, the entire trident suffused a red layer of flames. Its might had increased several times.


    It stabbed at the gray, blurry barrier of light once again.


    Kuishi''s expression changed slightly.


    Like before, the trident lost all its momentum after stabbing through tens of thousands of obstructive layers.


    "Die!" Kuishi had a grotesque expression as a gigantic tail appeared behind her. It looked like a scorpion''s tail¨C a sharp, nine-segmented bent whip that had an extremely sharp tip.


    "Swoosh!"


    The tail stabbed at an even faster speed, twice as fast as the trident.


    In nearly an instant, it arrived in front of the gray barrier.


    "Boom!!!"


    An unprecedented collision happened.


    The tail''s tip stabbed down as the gray barrier trembled before finally showing its true form. Layers of sword flashes were stacked upon each other as they held off the tail tip. The tail tip stabbed through the layers of sword flashes as they were constantly pushed back. The barrier had sunk in halfway, while Qin Yun and Yi Xiao remained inside. The tail only came to a stop after depressing the barrier midway.


    The aftershocks of the tail and the barrier blasted out. The stellar forces of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm around constantly weakened it, and it was all Qin Yun could do to use his stellar forces to move the people in the city further away.


    Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!


    The remnant blasts surged out for a kilometer, sweeping over the buildings in the city below. Although the people had been moved away, the region was flattened completely.


    The commoners were rapidly moved far away with the stellar forces'' help.


    All of them looked dazedly at the gigantic tail in the sky stabbing at the sword flash barrier.


    The tail''s scales were black and the tail was segmented. There were probably dozens of segments and the tip of the tail was astoundingly sharp.


    "What a terrifying strike." Qin Yun watched as the Chaos Cyclic Sword Flash barrier depressed halfway. When the Intrinsic Flying Sword finally held its defense, he could not help but tighten his grip on his wife''s hand.


    "It got blocked?" Kuishi was somewhat alarmed. She quickly retracted the segmented tail behind her.


    At that moment¡ª


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying bolt of lightning descended from the sky, smiting straight at Kuishi.


    Kuishi waved her hand as scales filled her palms to fend off the lightning. Her cold eyes swept into the distance.


    Ancestral Master Zhang stood in midair thousands of kilometers away. There were twelve Lightning Godfiends around him forming an array formation. A vicinity that stretched out for hundreds of kilometers had been turned into a sea of lightning. Ancestral Master Zhang looked angrily over as he bellowed, "Fiend, don''t you are act impudently in my world!"


    "Senior Brother Yellow-robed, Senior Brother Wang, Palatial Lord Kuishi is here to assassinate Junior Brother Qin! Please come quickly!" Ancestral Master Zhang took out two mementos and requested for backup instantly.


    The void in which Qin Yun was in had been completely sealed. He had no way to request for help.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang was thousands of kilometers away¡­ He could make the request.


    "Yellow-robed Supremacy? General Wang from the Heavenly Courts?" Kuishi frowned before shooting a glance at Qin Yun.


    "Your life-preservation sword arts aren''t bad." Kuishi said before she took a step and cast Major Void Transference! Since her strongest attack had failed to kill Qin Yun, she could not afford any delay. If Supremacy really came, she would be asking for trouble by staying.


    Qin Yun watched her leave before heaving a sigh of relief.

 498 Lingering Fear

    Chapter 498: Lingering Fear


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ancestral Master Zhang, who was thousands of kilometers away, simultaneously heaved a sigh of relief when he saw this scene. With a thought, he dismissed the twelve Lightning Godfiends and dispelled the array formation. Following that, he took one step forward with Void Transference to appear above Wusu County City.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother." Qin Yun immediately bowed gratefully. Yi Xiao bowed as well.


    After all, not just anyone would dare to offer aid when facing a half-step Ancestral Fiend.


    If one was not careful, not only would they fail to save the other party, they might end up losing their own lives.


    "Haha¡­" Ancestral Master Zhang said with a laugh. "I had set up a lightning array formation to suppress the void long before this. Even if that Kuishi were to use Major Void Transference, she would not be able to come close. If she did dare to close in, the only available option for me would have been to flee immediately. This bit of strength I have doesn''t threaten her in any way."


    Qin Yun smiled. "I similarly posed no threat to her. By the way, Senior Brother Zhang. I didn''t know you had Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s memento?"


    Back at the Skywolf world, Yellow-robed Supremacy had quickly headed to the Green Touring Palace''s Golden Sand Array for seclusive cultivation after meeting the Dao Ancestor. It would have taken at least ten thousand years for him to finish.


    Now, there was only an avatar left in the Skywolf world!


    "Of course not. I was doing that to scare her only," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a laugh. "However, I do have Senior Brother Wang''s memento. So, it was just a half-truth."


    Qin Yun laughed.


    "Your daughter is Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s disciple. They must have investigated thoroughly, so I thought they would believe that I really possessed Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s memento," said Ancestral Master Zhang wistfully.


    "I see." Qin Yun nodded.


    On the two whose help was sought¡ª


    There was no need to elaborate on Yellow-robed Supremacy. Although he was a ninth firmament Skyimmortal, his combat strength was undoubtedly at the mighty figure level! Many years ago, he was the head of the Heavenly Courts''s western mansion of the White Tiger, a famous Combat General of the Heavenly Courts. The fame he enjoyed¡­ was even greater than the supreme leader of the fiendish way in the Effulgent Great World''s Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud. Of course, their strengths were on par with each other.


    Senior Brother Wang''s name was Wang Qian. He was also a Green Touring Palace disciple. He helmed a division of soldiers from the Heavenly Courts and was temporarily stationed in the Effulgent Great World. His strength was that of a half-step Golden Immortal.


    Palatial Lord Kuishi''s attack¡­


    As mighty figures like Golden Immortals and Buddhas were unable to enter Small Worlds with their true bodies, they could only seek the help of senior brothers and sisters at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm! And at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal level¡­ the memento response was unable to exceed that of a dominion.


    Only mighty figures could sense past a dominion. They could easily use their own strength to head to any dominion in the Three Realms.


    Therefore, the ninth firmament Skyimmortal reinforcements Ancestral Master Zhang could seek were limited to those in the Effulgent dominion! There were only a few hundred senior brothers and sisters in the Effulgent dominion of that cultivation level, but most of them were even weaker than Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang!


    There was only one at the half-step Golden Immortal realm! Senior Brother Wang Qian.


    And the only one that could match the power of a mighty figure was Senior Brother Yellow-robed.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Not far away, an elder in linen clothes walked out the void.


    The elder had a head of silver hair. His gaze was recessed and heavy. He was the general of the Heavenly Courts¡ªGeneral Wang Qian. He led a garrison of Heavenly Courts'' troops in the Effulgent dominion.


    "Senior Brother Wang." Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang immediately went forward to welcome him. Yi Xiao also followed Qin Yun.


    "What a powerful Skyfiend aura." The elder sensed the area before smiling at Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang. "It looks like the both of you resolved the trouble without my help."


    "I deliberately shouted out Senior Brother Yellow-robed and Senior Brother Wang''s names so I could scare her off," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    "With Kuishi''s strength, she could probably deliver about ten strikes in a blink of an eye," said the elder. "That''s enough time for her to use everything in her arsenal! Since she retreated, it means she knows she''s unable to do a thing to Junior Brother Qin. Junior Brother Qin, you must have experienced Kuishi''s tail. Her tail is truly powerful."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Yes, it was dangerous. I almost failed to resist her attack."


    The elder looked at Qin Yun in astonishment. "There''s no need to act humble. If you resisted it then you resisted it. Junior Brother, you have only cultivated for such a short period of time, but you are able to withstand Kuishi''s attack at full strength. I''m truly impressed."


    "I saw the gigantic tail from afar as well. It''s truly grim and its might is terrifying," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "I definitely wouldn''t withstand it."


    "I''m a Skyimmortal, while Kuishi is a Skyfiend," said the elder. "At our realms, it''s already very rare to push our strength towards that of the Golden Immortal or Ancestral Fiend level. Trying to enhance it any bit more is extremely difficult. Kuishi''s melee combat might only be considered average, for even I can repress her. But that tail of hers is truly terrifying! By being able to withstand her blow, you will be able to withstand any blow apart from those delivered by mighty figures."


    "Now that Kuishi''s assassination has failed, will that Fiend Supremacy try it himself?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang worriedly.


    "Don''t worry," said the elder. "The fiend leaders that the fiendish way stations in the various dominions of the Three Realms are constantly watched by the Heavenly Courts'' troops! They would not dare take action recklessly."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. Yi Xiao was feeling nervous as she listened from the side.


    "It''s our job to deal with the fiends," said the elder with a shake of his head. "Unfortunately, the Heavenly Courts'' forces in the Effulgent dominion are very weak. We only have my division of heavenly troops at the moment."


    Qin Yun knew this.


    The dominions in the core of the Three Realms were where the Heavenly Courts had the greatest control. Any of those dominions in the core had massive numbers of heavenly soldiers and generals stations. The leaders were all famous mighty figures! Half the Heavenly Courts'' forces in the Three Realms were in the Heavenly realm! The other half was scattered across the numerous dominions in the core region.


    For remote dominions like the Effulgent dominion, they would only send an ordinary division of heavenly soldiers! Leading them would be a half-step Golden Immortal.


    As for dominions ruled by the fiends? The Heavenly Courts would not even send troops there.


    "By the way, Junior Brother Qin, remember to leave an avatar outside in the future. If your true body encounters danger, you can use your avatar to seek help," suggested the elder smilingly. "When Kuishi attempted her assassination, you must not have had the chance to seek help because of her control of the void, am I right?"


    "Yes, I was lacking in experience." Qin Yun nodded.


    One had to seek help the moment they encountered danger.


    Then, they would use their own strength and the life preservation items that Green Touring Palace gave to stall for time. Once senior brothers and sisters came, everything would be fine.


    The problem was that it required time to seek help and for the reinforcements to arrive!


    If one was too weak, they could be killed in a blink of an eye, making such a solution pointless.


    Thankfully, he had entered seclusion for eight years and had improved his Cyclic Sword Flash. If not, he and Xiaoxiao would probably be dead! Upon coming to this realization, Qin Yun felt a lingering fear.


    "The Five Fires Calabash and Yin Water Chains are supreme-grade Numinous treasures. They are useless to me. It looks like I should exchange them for some life-preservation items," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun, together with Ancestral Master Zhang, hosted Senior Brother Wang Qian at his place.


    And in the Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "Whoosh."


    A stream of light landed in a hall.


    Palatial Lord Kuishi''s expression was cold.


    "Sister Kuishi." A figure materialized beside her. It was none other than Fiend Supremacy.


    "Brother." Kuishi bowed her head. "I failed."


    "Failed?" Fiend Supremacy was astonished? "How did you fail? Has he attained phenomenal success with his protective divine power?"


    "His divine powers are not worth mentioning." Kuishi shook her head. "But his flying sword¡­ is able to produce a very profound protective sword art. I was unable to crack it even by using my true form and my full strength."


    "Even you can''t crack it?" said a baffled Fiend Supremacy. "He''s just an Essence Soul sword immortal."


    "If he becomes a Skyimmortal, he will probably be even stronger than me." Although Kuishi''s expression was ugly, she could only admit, "In short, I''m unable to crack his protective sword art."


    "In your opinion, what sort of strength is needed to finish him?" inquired Fiend Supremacy.


    Kuishi recalled the scenes of their exchange and said, "My strength needs to be increased by thirty to forty percent before I would be confident of cracking his protective sword art."


    She had sensed it.


    Although she had depressed the Chaos Cyclic Sword Flash''s barrier nearly halfway, she felt that the barrier would only continue depressing even if she used greater force.


    It was just too resilient. She would only be confident of cracking it only if she became thirty to forty percent stronger!


    "I have no idea if that protective sword art is even his strongest move," said Kuishi.


    "Alright." Fiend Supremacy nodded slightly.


    "Brother, what do you plan on doing next?" pressed Kuishi.

 499 Senior Brother Sa Xus Kindness

    Chapter 499: Senior Brother Sa Xu''s Kindness


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Fiend Supremacy frowned and said softly, "After this battle, that Qin Yun will definitely be a lot more careful. We shall have to wait."


    Kuishi nodded slightly.


    Even if another plan was plotted, she would unlikely be the person executing it.


    Clearly, Palatial Lord Kuishi''s strength was insufficient to kill Qin Yun!


    "He rose up too quickly. He has only cultivated for such a short period of time, and he is already able to stay alive against Kuishi. I can''t let him continue to grow. How should I rid myself of him?" Fiend Supremacy began contemplating a solution.


    ¡­


    While the Tenebrous Fiend world was thinking up a solution, Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ancestral Master Zhang were hosting a banquet for Senior Brother Wang Qian in the Great Chang world.


    When the banquet was almost over, Wang Qian said, "Junior Brother Qin, although Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud will not act wantonly, you were able to resist Palatial Lord Kuishi after such a short period of cultivation. Perhaps¡­ this will only make the fiends more eager to kill you."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. He was well aware of this too.


    "My suggestion is for you to temporarily live in the Effulgent Great World," said Wang Qian with a smile. "The Effulgent Great World has a deep heritage and many experts lurk in it. There is a mighty figure residing in it too. If they truly dare to send Ancestral Fiends to attack, our Green Touring Palace''s Golden Immortals can descend as well."


    From the side, Ancestral Master Zhang clapped and said with a smile, "Yes. Head to the Effulgent Great World. The possibility of Ancestral Fiends and Golden Immortals fighting there is very low. After all, they do not wish to offend that senior."


    Wang Qian nodded. "With that senior present, no one in the Effulgent Great World dares act without regard."


    "Alright. Xiaoxiao and I were already planning on heading to the Effulgent Great World for a trip," said Qin Yun with a smile. He also knew that a terrifying existence resided in the Effulgent Great World.


    By residing in the Effulgent Great World, the senior also became the leader of the Effulgent dominion.


    In fact¡­


    It was very difficult to dominate a dominion in the vast Three Realms.


    Taking the dragons as an example, it took the Chaos Godfiend, Ancestral Dragon, and several dragons at the Ancestral Fiend realm to occupy a dominion!


    For the magi, the Magus Gate''s Ten Magi all had baffling and unpredictable abilities. They were very famous, but even they were only able to occupy a dominion by joining forces.


    A typical mighty figure?


    About five Golden Immortal mighty figures would not have the qualifications to occupy a dominion. How powerful were the Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, and fiendish way? Without sufficient strength, how could one shock and awe the rest enough to put them in their place and completely dominate a dominion?


    "There is no need to chose another day. Why don''t we do it now?" Wang Qian said with a smile. "I can bring the both of you there directly."


    Qin Yun looked at his wife Yi Xiao, who nodded as well.


    "Then I''ll be troubling you, Senior Brother Wang," said Qin Yun with a smile. Simultaneously, he split off an avatar which immediately transformed into a stream of light that headed for Grand Dominance.


    "Junior Brother Qin, it''s safer in the Effulgent Great World, but you still have to be careful," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "Let''s go." Wang Qian smiled as he waved his hand. He engaged in Major Void Transference together with Qin Yun and Yi Xiao. They departed the Great Chang world and headed for the Effulgent Great World.


    ******


    After arriving in the Effulgent Great World, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao quickly bade Wang Qian farewell.


    Half a month later.


    In an elegant room in a city''s restaurant.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were enjoying several delicacies. Since the Effulgent Great World was so big, the local delights were more than sufficient to appeal to the couple''s tastes for years.


    "Whoosh."


    A blurry light descended into the room as another Qin Yun appeared. It merged with the seated Qin Yun immediately.


    The person accompanying his wife was only an avatar.


    "How was it?" asked Yi Xiao when she saw this.


    "I made a trip to Green Touring Palace and sought out several senior brothers and sisters, but Connate Wonders are extremely difficult to obtain." Qin Yun shook his head. "It''s only possible to get one if I use another Connate Wonder to exchange, but the moment my possession of the Chaos Pure Gold is exposed¡­ I''ll probably encounter greater troubles."


    The huge piece of Chaos Pure Gold he obtained from Star Cluster Hall was about half the height of a person. He only used thirty percent to raise his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the supreme-grade Numinous treasure level.


    Firstly, Qin Yun did not dare reveal that he had it. Even if he only used a tiny portion of it, others would suspect that he had even more. Mighty figures could use this to infer the truth. Treasures were tempting! Once this was made known, it would really result in endless trouble.


    Secondly, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had already extracted all the Chaos Pure Gold it could, and was unable to withstand any more. However, if he were to become a Golden Immortal one day, the Chaos Pure Gold could still provide a lot of help.


    Therefore¡­


    Qin Yun could only use his supreme-grade Numinous treasures, the Yin Water Chains and Five Fires Calabash to exchange for the Connate Wonder. He did not need a lot, just a tiny amount would be sufficient!


    But it was very difficult! The difference in value between supreme-grade Numinous treasures and Connate Wonders was just too great. Connate Wonders were also very rare.


    "Continue waiting then. Besides, you might one day create a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation," said Yi Xiao. "When that happens, your strength will reach a brand new level."


    "Create a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation?" said Qin Yun wistfully. "At present, I only barely have a clue. I''m still far from successfully creating it."


    "Brother Yun, you are the sword immortal who created his own Dharmic formulation. If you can reach the ninth firmament Skyimmortal, the purity of your Dharmic powers will make you in no way inferior to Golden Immortals," comforted Yi Xiao. "I''ve read through the intelligence on the experts in the Three Realms you gave me. Many of the experts in the Three Realms are ninth firmament Skyimmortals who created their own Dharmic formulations. They are all able to match Golden Immortals. Brother Yun, you have created an even harder sword immortal Dharmic formulation, and with your Intrinsic Flying Sword, I believe you will only get stronger. When the time comes, that Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud will be no match for you at all."


    "I''ll take it one step at a time. It''s still very early." Qin Yun lowered his head and continued eating.


    The couple chatted as they ate, and were more than halfway done with their meal when suddenly¨C¨C


    Buzz.


    A fluctuation descended.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun had extremely sharp senses. He turned to look.


    A white-dressed man walked out of the void as he scrutinized Qin Yun.


    The moment he saw this, Qin Yun stood up together with his wife. He bowed and said humbly, "Greetings, Senior Brother Sa."


    The person was none other than Green Touring Palace disciple Sa Xu.


    He created the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma, and with the Lightning Dharma, was able to match mighty figures! His potential was even higher than Yellow-robed Supremacy''s. Yellow-robed Supremacy and company were a batch of ancient experts in the Three Realms that had been stuck at a bottleneck since ancient times. After cultivating for so long, it was extremely unlikely they could become Golden Immortals. On the one hand, Sa Xu had cultivated for a relatively shorter amount of time. On the other hand, he did not study from predecessors, but created his own Dharmic formulation. The Dharmic formulation he created himself was also extremely powerful and he himself was very perceptive.


    "I heard you require a water-elemental Connate Wonder?" Sa Xu asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes," said Qin Yun eagerly.


    "I have the Connate Wonder, Water of the First Essence." Sa Xu looked at Qin Yun. "What do you have to exchange in return?"


    Qin Yun was excited hearing this.


    Water of the First Essence?


    What his Intrinsic Flying Sword needed the most was naturally metal-elemental Connate Wonders! The next most important were those of the water-elemental sort.


    "I only have two supreme-grade Numinous treasures, the Yin Water Chains and Five Fires Calabash, as well as a Three Calamities Crimson Numinous Fruit Tree," said Qin Yun. These were the most precious treasures he had apart from his Intrinsic Flying Sword and Chaos Pure Gold. The Yin Water Chains and Three Calamities Crimson Numinous Fruit Tree had been obtained from killing Prestige Goat. The Five Fires Calabash was naturally won from his battle bet with Bear Mountain.


    "Just that?" Sa Xu looked at Qin Yun.


    "That''s all I have." Qin Yun felt somewhat helpless as he said this.


    The Chaos Pure Gold was just not something he could reveal. Once it was exposed, experts good at inference could figure many things out.


    As for the other treasures, he had obtained them from combat, but as he had cultivated for too short a time, he had only accumulated few.


    "Just this bit of treasures¡­ Whatever. I''ll give you three drops of Water of the First Essence," said Sa Xu. "Are you willing to do the exchange?"


    "Yes, I''m willing," said Qin Yun gratefully. "Thank you, Senior Brother."


    Sa Xu was an existence that matched a mighty figure.


    Two supreme-grade Numinous treasures and a Three Calamities Crimson Numinous Fruit Tree were of little use to him. The reason why he initiated the exchange was more to help his junior brother.


    Qin Yun took out the two supreme-grade Numinous treasures and a box. Inside the box was the Three Calamities Crimson Numinous Fruit Tree.


    "Whoosh." Sa Xu waved his hand and put them away. Following that, he took out a red calabash. Three drops of liquid that emitted strange colors immediately flew out. Each drop of water was the size of a fist.


    "One can touch the Water of the First Essence without any worry. Ordinary Cosmic Bags and Dharma treasure bottles can store it," said Sa Xu.


    Qin Yun also sensed it.


    It was not like Chaos Pure Gold which had a boundless, sharp aura. The Water of the First Essence was very mild, so mild that even mortals could touch it.


    Qin Yun reached out to grab a drop of Water of the First Essence.


    "It''s heavy." Qin Yun was astonished.


    "One drop of Water of the First Essence is nearly five hundred kilograms," said Sa Xu. "Quickly store it away."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded and took out a green jade bottle and stored the three drops inside of it.


    "Cultivate well and teach those fiends a lesson in the future," said Sa Xu. He had two reasons for being so willing to help Qin Yun. Firstly, he thought highly of him earlier on. Secondly, he knew of Kuishi''s assassination attempt on Qin Yun. Sa Xu was one who abhorred evil, and he had killed numerous fiends as well.


    "Yes, Senior Brother Sa. If I were to obtain more treasures, could I continue exchanging for more Water of the First Essence?" Qin Yun thickened his skin and asked.


    Sa Xu looked at Qin Yun with a faint smile. "Punk, you can at most get ten drops from me, including the three from just now! You can find me at Green Touring Palace when the need arises."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Sa." Qin Yun bowed deeply.


    He would keep in mind this huge gratitude.


    He had heard stories of a mighty figure using sixty drops of Water of the First Essence to exchange for a Connate Numinous treasure in the Three Realms. It was relatively easier to exchange Connate Wonders for Connate Numinous treasures.


    As for supreme-grade Numinous treasures, it was acknowledged by all in the Three Realms that only a hundred supreme-grade Numinous treasures could be exchanged for one Connate Numinous treasure. Furthermore, one had to find a mighty figure that was willing to do the exchange.


    "Whoosh." The blurry light descended as Sa Xu departed the Effulgent dominion.


    "Brother Yun, are the three drops of Water of the First Essence enough?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "It''s not considered a small amount." Qin Yun was filled with glee. "My flying sword mainly requires metal-elemental materials and water-elemental materials as a supplement. It does not need too much of the Water of the First Essence."


    ¡­


    On the same day.


    After he settled in his wife, Qin Yun''s true body headed for his tiny compound in Green Touring Palace where he began nurturing his Intrinsic Flying Sword.

 500 Jade Tripod Sects Meng Huan

    Chapter 500: Jade Tripod Sect''s Meng Huan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace. In the chamber of Qin Yun''s tiny compound.


    An incense was burning inside the chamber as its thin fragrance permeated the area. Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat as he took out a green jade bottle. The three drops of Water of the First Essence flew out and floated in front of him. Each liquid drop suffused bizarre colors and was filled with endless wonder.


    "Connate Wonder." Qin Yun was reeling in anticipation. It was already very rare to have just three drops.


    Following that, he waved his hand, releasing his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword floated above the three drops of Water of the First Essence. As Qin Yun circulated the formulation, a black-and-white chart surfaced over the Misty Rain Sword.


    Immediately, a drop of Water of the First Essence flew straight up and completely fused with the black-and-white chart. The Misty Rain Sword absorbed whatever the chart converted.


    The flying sword trembled.


    The flying sword was also changing as it absorbed the Connate Wonder.


    The pale-golden Misty Rain Sword was now developing a discernible azure tinge on its surface.


    "The Chaos Pure Gold has very tiny impurities in it. The absorption will still leave behind some impurities. As for the Water of the First Essence, it gets completely absorbed," Qin Yun mused while watching. Moments later, the Misty Rain Sword completed the absorption of the first drop of Water of the First Essence.


    "A drop of Water of the First Essence is still not enough?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    Immediately following that, the second drop of Water of the First Essence flew up and fused into the black-and-white chart. After the Misty Rain Sword absorbed all of it, Qin Yun could sense that the Misty Rain Sword was feeling a little ''bloated.''


    "The quantity absorbed the first time is always the most. Two drops of Water of the First Essence is sufficient. The absorption can continue tomorrow." Qin Yun nodded.


    He gave this command with a thought.


    The remaining drop of Water of the First Essence was stored into the green jade bottle.


    Qin Yun beckoned his hand as the Misty Rain Sword landed in his palm. The flying sword was entirely azure-gold in color, its surface having an additional aqueous layer, making it look more illusory.


    "Although it''s still at the supreme-grade Numinous treasure level, it feels like its potency has increased by about ten to twenty percent when I circulate it with my Dharmic powers." Qin Yun had an idea as he took out the yellow-skinned calabash and withdrew the gigantic Chaos Pure Gold from within.


    The Chaos Pure Gold, which was half the height of a human, landed on the ground.


    Qin Yun waved his hand as the Misty Rain Sword flew above the Chaos Pure Gold.


    As he circulated the formulation, the black-and-white chart surfaced. The Chaos Pure Gold immediately released golden points of light that fused with the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Haha, the absorption can really continue."


    Qin Yun was delighted. "Previously, my Intrinsic Flying Sword was unable to absorb any more of the Chaos Pure Gold. I guessed that only after I attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit and went through a huge improvement of my Sword Dao realm would my Intrinsic Flying Sword be able to continue the absorption. But now, with the absorption of another Connate Wonder, my Intrinsic Flying Sword is slowly transforming. It can absorb even more of the Chaos Pure Gold."


    In fact, an ordinary Dharma treasure also required the marriage of several materials.


    Intrinsic Flying Swords also absorbed many metal and water elemental materials when they were at the weakest Dharma artifact stage.


    Qin Yun''s Sword Dao realm was only at the late stages of the Skyimmortal realm. Without attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, his Intrinsic Flying Sword could only reach the superior-grade Numinous treasure state using ordinary materials. To break those shackles? He needed Connate Wonders! Connate Wonders were the most mysterious and precious materials in the Three Realms. Still, it was hard to exchange for a tiny bit of Connate Wonder material even with supreme-grade Numinous treasures that ninth firmament Skyimmortals valued highly.


    For instance, even a drop of the Water of the First Essence was more precious than a supreme-grade Numinous treasure.


    Qin Yun''s flying sword¡­ was most in need of metal-elemental Connate Wonders! Next were those of the water-elemental nature! These two were the most important. Previously, the Misty Rain Sword''s situation was akin to it walking with only one leg. After it absorbed the Water of the First Essence, the Misty Rain Sword was a lot more internally balanced. It could now absorb even more Chaos Pure Gold. Of course, wood, earth, and fire elemental Connate Wonders were of use too. Even non-elemental Connate Wonders were of use, but their importance was secondary.


    ¡­


    In the following days, Qin Yun''s avatar jaunted with his wife, taking in the local sights.


    His true body was in seclusion in Green Touring Palace.


    After five days, the three drops of Water of the First Essence were completely refined and absorbed. There was only about sixty percent of the Chaos Pure Gold left compared to when Qin Yun first received it.


    "There''s just too little Water of the First Essence." Qin Yun looked at the Misty Rain Sword which sat in his palm. "To satiate this Misty Rain Sword¡­ I probably need a lot more Water of the First Essence."


    "Go."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The Misty Rain Sword immediately flew out and circled the chamber, tearing streaks across the void.


    Qin Yun nodded when he saw this. "It''s strength has increased by thirty to forty percent. It''s still at the Intrinsic supreme-grade Numinous treasure level. I wonder how many Connate Wonders I''ll need to feed it for it to transform into an intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure."


    As long as he had enough Connate Wonders, anything was possible.


    Before becoming a Golden Immortal¡­


    If his Intrinsic Flying Sword could become a Connate Numinous treasure, then after he attained his Golden Immortal Dao fruit, his Sword Dao realm would be greatly enhanced. The might of his Intrinsic Flying Sword would also increase again.


    After all, Connate Numinous treasures had different grades of strength.


    Ordinary ones gave even mighty figures limited aid.


    The powerful ones could send tremors throughout the Three Realms. For instance, the Empyrean Seal was extremely famous.


    And the even more famous Immortal Vanquishing Array, and the legendary Pangu Axe¡­ they were the best Connate Numinous treasures.


    Qin Yun had taken Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure as his master. His master had expectations for him. Since he cultivated quickly, he naturally had many ideas. He wished to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword to an extremely powerful state.


    ******


    Jade Tripod Sect was one of the top 32 factions in the Effulgent dominion. Of course, there were other subsidiaries of the Jade Tripod Sect in other dominions. After all, it was established by Perfected Jade Tripod, one of the twelve Golden Immortals under Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning. There were countless cultivators who wished to join the Jade Tripod Sect in the Effulgent dominion.


    Ashen Azure Peak, one of the Jade Tripod Sect''s six peaks.


    Two Daoists at the Skyimmortal realm who had extraordinary auras shouted from afar, "Junior Brother Meng Huan."


    Meng Huan was dressed in azure-colored clothes. He had a cold disposition.


    He was used to practicing in the way of the sword since a young age. He was a man of few words, and he was still the same to this very day.


    When Meng Huan heard the shout, he turned and saw the two Daoists. He immediately bowed. "Greetings, Senior Brothers."


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan, I need your help on something," said the shorter Daoist with a chuckle.


    "Senior Brother Lu, please speak," said Meng Huan.


    "Your Senior Brother Qi and I have to leave immediately since something has cropped up. However, I''m on duty to guard the dungeons," said the short Daoist with a smile. "Therefore, I''m hoping you can help me by guarding the dungeons for half a year."


    "Guard the dungeons for half a year?" Meng Huan was slightly taken aback.


    "This is the token for guarding the dungeons. I''ll be troubling you, Junior Brother." The short Daoist flipped his hand and took out a token. Following that, he eyed Meng Huan. "Junior Brother, I''m sure you don''t have any objections, right?"


    Meng Huan nodded slightly. "Senior Brother, go ahead and deal with your matters. Leave the guarding of the dungeons to me."


    "You have to take good care of the token." The short Daoist flicked the token at him.


    Following that, he left with his partner.


    Meng Huan held the token and watched his senior brothers depart. He frowned slightly. "I''m the weakest disciple in Ashen Azure Peak. I can only let this pass. If I were to resist, I would only end up being bullied more."


    Ashen Azure Peak was one of the six peaks of the Jade Tripod Sect.


    The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies here were more than ten times richer than the outside world. Every disciple had a cave abode to use as their own. Precious natural treasures were delivered to each cave abode on a fixed basis. The conditions one had for cultivating were much better than ordinary Jade Tripod Sect disciples. Typically, only by becoming a Skyimmortal and becoming a Elder did one have the qualifications to enter one of the six Jade Tripod Sect peaks! Only very few disciples at the Essence Soul realms were allowed entry. They were typically exceptions due to their extremely high talent. Meng Huan had only broken through to the third Firmament Essence Soul realm. His Dao domain only spanned thirty kilometers.


    And the other weakest senior sister in Ashen Azure Peak had a Dao domain of fifty kilometers despite being also at the third Firmament Essence Soul realm! She was no rush to break through to the Skyimmortal realm because she was focused on cultivating divine powers.


    ¡­


    The two Daoists flew out of the Jade Tripod Sect.


    "I have no idea how that Meng Huan lucked out. He is considered one of the weakest third Firmament Essence Soul realm disciples in our Jade Tripod Sect! Yet he was invited into Ashen Azure Peak!" scoffed the short Daoist.


    "Junior Brother Lu, Meng Huan had reached the third Firmament Essence Soul realm despite cultivating for a short time. His talent is still passable," said Qi.


    "Hmph, since we are talking about talent, we have a bunch of third Firmament Essence Soul realm disciples in our Jade Tripod Sect that are much more talented than him! How does he deserve to enter Ashen Azure Peak?" scoffed the short Daoist. "Isn''t it just because his father, Meng Yiqiu, is talented? It''s said that he has strength that matches Skyimmortals despite being mortal. But so what? Even if he becomes a Skyimmortal, he will only be at the fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortal. Why would our Jade Tripod Sect bother with an external cultivator? We are an orthodox sect of the Primordial Beginning!"


    "I heard that Sect Master had personally invited Meng Yiqiu to join us," said Qi. "Perhaps Meng Yiqiu has some ties with Sect Master."


    "If my master, Immortal Ashen Azure, was still around, would Sect Master dare stuff someone randomly into our Ashen Azure Peak? With just this one additional person, the benefits of Ashen Azure Peak have to be shared with him. We receive lesser in return! There are quite a number of people who dislike Meng Huan," scoffed the short Daoist. "My Master went to Jade Void Palace for cultivation. He might return in the future. When that happens, Sect Master will see that our Ashen Azure Peak is not something he can use as he pleases."


    "It''s best you not speak of this further," whispered Qi.


    "I''m only grumbling!" The short Daoist flicked his sleeve. "Let''s go. Let''s not talk about things that only dampen our spirits."

 501 Reaching Jade Tripod Sec

    Chapter 501: Reaching Jade Tripod Sect


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the Jade Tripod Sect, the sect master''s cave abode was extremely silent. However, there were what looked to be two Dao Children standing guard at its entrance. Although they looked like Dao Children, however, they were in fact powerful Guardian Generals.


    "Whoosh."


    A white-browed immortal riding a cloud landed at the entrance.


    "Uncle-Master Yang, you are here?" Two figures rushed out of the cave abode. They were two of the strongest figures in Jade Tripod Sect¡ªthe sect master and the Dao Protector!


    "Greetings, Uncle-Master Yang." Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector bowed with a smile.


    "Okay." The white-browed immortal took the initiative to enter the cave abode. Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector followed by his side.


    Soon.


    The three sat down beside a lotus pond inside the cave abode.


    "Uncle-Master Yang, might I know what is it that requires the help of us disciple-nephews?" inquired Sect Master Jade Tripod. He was an eighth firmament Skyimmortal! The Dao Protector beside him was aged in appearance but his strength was even higher. He was a ninth firmament Skyimmortal.


    But strictly speaking, Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were fourth generation disciples of the Primordial Beginning lineage!


    The white-browed immortal was a third generation Primordial Beginning disciple. The Primordial Beginning lineage''s Jade Void Palace was strict when it came to accepting disciples, making their numbers rather low. There were a small number among the third generation disciples who were Golden Immortals. The remaining ones were nearly all cream of the crop when it came to ninth firmament Skyimmortals.


    "I''ve heard that Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun has a son named Meng Huan who is one of your disciples in the Jade Tripod Sect, am I right?" asked the white-browed immortal with a smile.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and Dao Protector exchanged looks.


    "I just went to make a trip to Jade Void Palace and learned of this matter after getting the information from Qin Yun," continued the white-browed immortal.


    "Yes, Meng Huan''s father is indeed Qin Yun," said Sect Master Jade Tripod. "The last time he was here, Qin Yun had used Meng Yiqiu''s appearance and identity to reunite with Meng Huan. Later, he forged a new sword immortal lineage and was recruited into Green Touring Palace, so we have always maintained the secret of Qin Yun and his son."


    "Very good." The white-browed immortal smiled with a nod. "I''m hoping that the both of you can help me invite Qin Yun here. His son is in the Jade Tripod Sect, so I''m sure he will definitely come if you invite him."


    "Invite him here to Jade Tripod Sect?" Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were perplexed.


    They placed a great importance on their relationship with Qin Yun.


    In the Three Realms, relationships between immortals were important. If one had a tight relationship with a powerful figure, it could be a life saving factor at critical moments!


    "Might I know why you request this?" pressed Sect Master Jade Tripod.


    A glint flashed in the white-browed immortal''s eyes as he said coldly, "To deal with Skyfiends!"


    "I have a vendetta against two powerful enemies that I want to deal with. It''s easy to defeat them, but killing them would be very difficult," he said coldly. "Most immortals aim for a carefree life of immortality! Few wish to fight with powerful Skyfiends."


    "Cultivating certainly isn''t easy," said Sect Master Jade Tripod with a nod. "The ones fond of bravery and fighting might be able to kill Skyfiends when they engage them in battle, but similarly, the Skyfiends can also kill immortals. Those battles can happen numerous times¡­ but with more battles, the greater the possibility there is of losing one''s life. All those years of cultivation would be for naught. We cultivators seek eternal life above all else. And for someone to be close in strength to you, Uncle-Master Yang, they must also be close to that of a Golden Immortal. They will be fully focused on becoming one. There''s even less of a chance they would wish to risk their lives fighting Skyfiends."


    "I understand." The white-browed immortal nodded. "I''ve already found a helper, but I''m still lacking one that''s adept at domains. Qin Yun was considered quite good when he defeated Demon King Bear Mountain. However, I felt that his strength was still somewhat lacking. His joining might only serve to get him killed. But then a month ago, the Skyfiend, Palatial Lord Kuishi, attempted to assassinate Qin Yun. Qin Yun managed to resist her most powerful strike, so now I''m certain that he has sufficient strength to help me."


    "Palatial Lord Kuishi attempted to assassinate Qin Yun?" Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were alarmed.


    "Yes. Very few people know of this. It has just only begun to spread in the Three Realms. I also just learned of it," said the white-browed immortal. "I wish to invite such a powerful expert to help me in my battle with the Skyfiends! But even if he abhors evil, inviting him will not be a trivial matter. I know that his son, Meng Huan, is in your sect. Therefore, I''m requesting you to invite him on my behalf. Later, I''ll discuss it in detail with him."


    Since his son was in Jade Tripod Sect, if Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were to invite him¡­ Qin Yun would definitely have to at least give them face. It would be much easier to negotiate in a face-to-face conversation.


    "If the both of you are willing to help me, I will be indebted to you," said the white-browed immortal.


    "Alright. I''ll invite him now." Sect Master Jade Tripod nodded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao rode on a cloud as they flew high in the sky, looking down upon the beautiful scenery of the vast lands.


    The Effulgent Great World was huge. Many areas were scenic and pretty, like they were works of a miraculous architect.


    "How beautiful it is. Brother Yun, look at the plains below. There are several canyons in the middle of the plains. At a glance, they look like nine fairies," marveled Yi Xiao as she looked down.


    "Haha, there are even more beautiful places. The ghostly lake ahead is what I describe as fantastic and strange," Qin Yun said casually as he drank from a alcohol calabash. His Intrinsic Flying Sword had been nurtured to its limits for the time being. Without more Water of the First Essence, or other new Connate Wonders, there was no way for him to continue enhancing his sword. Qin Yun accompanied his wife jaunting, but of course, while he enjoyed the natural sights, he was frequently inferring and thinking about his sword arts.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished as ripples opened up in the void. On the other end of the void was the side of a lotus pool. There were three immortals there.


    "Sect Master Jade Tripod, Dao Protector." Qin Yun recognized them at a glance. "This white-browed immortal is Yang Song?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin," greeted Sect Master Jade Tripod with a smile. "Are you also now in the Effulgent Great World?"


    "I''m accompanying my wife for a leisurely trip. The scenery of the Effulgent Great World is indeed spectacular," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Sect Master Jade Tripod, is there a reason why you are looking for me?"


    "I have something that requires your help. Sword Immortal Qin, might I trouble you to come to my Jade Tripod Sect? We can discuss it in detail," said Sect Master Jade Tripod.


    Qin Yun glanced at Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao said via a voice transmission, "Let''s go. Didn''t we agree to meet that son of yours in the Effulgent Great World?"


    The corners of Qin Yun''s eyes twitched slightly.


    However, a gentleman had to be open and poised. What was there to fear?


    "Alright, we will be there in a while." Qin Yun nodded.


    The void rift closed.


    "Let''s go," said Yi Xiao in anticipation.


    "You really are eager." Qin Yun held his wife''s hand. "Let''s go!"


    They tore through the void.


    Every surge through the void covered a hundred thousand kilometers. They repeated this a few times before arriving at a contiguous palatial complex.


    The Jade Tripod Sect was built on a group of mountains. It was truly an immortal sect. It was filled with array formations, and extraordinary in scale. There were a portion of palaces at the mountain peaks that had clouds swirling around them, making them indiscernible to the naked eye.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun flew over with his wife.


    He was an outsider, so it was not polite for him to barge through the Jade Tripod Sect''s array.


    As he flew, the clouds parted. A group of immortals came to receive him. Leading them was the white-browed immortal, Sect Master Jade Tripod, and the Dao Protector.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," greeted Sect Master Jade Tripod with a smile.


    "Greetings, Sword Immortal Qin. I''m Yang Song," said the white-browed immortal.


    "Greetings, everyone." Qin Yun said politely. Although he had a good relationship with the Jade Tripod Sect due to his son, he was still a Green Touring Palace disciple. The ones in front of him were from the Jade Void Palace. It was only with the rise of the fiendish way that the three Daoist lineages came to be on better terms. At the very least, they maintained a superficial show of unity.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and company invited Qin Yun to enter the sect. As for the fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortals behind them, none of them dared to say a word.


    The cultivation world was as such.


    Strength represented one''s standing. Palatial Lord Kuishi''s battle with Qin Yun was temporarily still a secret. Very few people knew of it, but news of Qin Yun repressing Bear Mountain¡­ was something already known in the Effulgent dominion. As such, his prowess made him stronger than Sect Master Jade Tripod or the Dao Protector. However, the Jade Tripod Sect''s backer was even more powerful. There could be seniors descending upon their world to preside over the sect. Sect Master Jade Tripod and Dao Protector were usually sufficient at dealing with most of the ordinary trivialities.


    ¡­


    Jade Tripod Sect''s Ashen Azure Peak.


    There were many Skyimmortals at Ashen Azure Peak.


    "Look, who is Sect Master receiving?" The Skyimmortals looked over. If the fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortals in the sect barely had the right to follow from behind, these ordinary Skyimmortals did not even have the right to come close. A huge sect followed strict rules like these.


    "Sect Master and Dao Protector. That is Uncle-Grandmaster Yang, isn''t that it? The person they are welcoming¡­ seems to be at the Essence Soul realm?"


    "That''s Sword Immortal Qin! I''ve seen his portrait before!" said a Skyimmortal immediately. "He is the only person apart from the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor to create a new sword immortal lineage in the Three Realms. He only took several decades to cultivate, but he repressed Demon King Bear Mountain! Ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals are not even capable of withstanding one strike of his."


    These Skyimmortals looked on in astonishment and envy.


    Having a Dao Ancestor as his master?


    Repressing Demon King Bear Mountain? This was something they yearned for. That was a strength that even their sect master could not come close to.


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" Meng Huan walked out of a cave. He looked outside and saw a group of immortals surrounding Qin Yun and Yi Xiao a distance away.


    He had heard of people talking about Sword Immortal Qin from inside the cave and could naturally not resist coming out.


    "There''s no mistake about it. It''s my father." Meng Huan naturally recognized at a glance.


    "Junior Brother Meng Huan, why are you out here?" berated a Skyimmortal senior brother. "Aren''t you going back in?"


    "You usually abide by the rules. Why are you acting so impudently today?" Another senior brother frowned. "Your duty is to guard the dungeons. You are not to leave at all. If the prisoners inside the dungeon escape, can you shoulder that responsibility?"


    Meng Huan looked at the distant Qin Yun and Yi Xiao flying into a cloud while being escorted by a huge crowd. That was where the sect master''s cave abode was.


    "I''ll be going back in." Meng Huan did not argue. He walked back into the cave''s deep passage and continued watching the dungeons.

 502 Flying Boa

    Chapter 502: Flying Boat


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Beside the lotus pond in the sect master''s cave abode, Yang Song, Sect Master Jade Tripod, the Dao Protector, and Qin Yun and his wife took their seats.


    All the attendants had been dismissed.


    "This is good wine." Qin Yun drank the wine and felt his psyche jolt. He could not help but marvel at it.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod said, "This is an immortal brew Uncle-Master made himself. It''s called Truffle Wine. It takes ten thousand years to successfully brew it."


    "It''s just a little hobby I do in my spare time," said Yang Song as he looked at Qin Yun smilingly. "Brother Qin, this is our first meeting, but I have heard your famous name several times in the recent decades."


    "The limelight only fell on me a few times," said Qin Yun with a smile. Yi Xiao only listened by the side silently as she drank. It was not her place to interject.


    After all, Yang Song was a third generation disciple of Jade Void Palace. It was an extremely high standing in the Effulgent dominion.


    "Haha, many immortals wish to be in the limelight, but they lack the strength to claim it," said Yang Song with a smile. "Palatial Lord Kuishi has the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend, but she could not do a thing to you. I''m truly impressed."


    "I only barely survived," said Qin Yun casually. He then went straight to the point. "Brother Yang, you happened to be in the Jade Tripod Sect and Sect Master Jade Tripod invited me here. Is there something you need of me?"


    Yang Song''s brows lifted.


    This Qin Yun¡­ was quite straightforward.


    "I do have something that I might need your help with, Brother Qin Yun."


    "You got Sect Master Jade Tripod to invite me when you are the one asking for my help?" Qin Yun frowned slightly.


    Yang Song smiled. "Brother Qin Yun, I read the intelligence regarding you in Jade Void Palace. I know you have some connections with the Jade Tripod Sect, so I had to thicken my skin and ask my disciple-nephew to invite you here."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, few people in my Jade Tripod Sect and Scenic Jade Palace know about your relationship with Meng Huan, and we have been keeping it a secret," explained Sect Master Jade Tripod immediately. "However, reporting it to Jade Void Palace is a rule. We could not violate it."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The Dao residences of the three Dao Ancestors¡­


    Green Touring Palace, Jade Void Palace, Eight Scenic Palace¡­


    It was very normal for the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning''s Jade Void Palace to have detailed intelligence about him! After all, the ones¡ªJade Tripod Sect and Scenic Jade Palace¡ªthat knew of his relationship with Meng Huan were both of the Primordial Beginning lineage.


    "I wonder in what respect I am able to help you, Brother Yang?" Qin Yun continued drinking.


    "I have an enemy. The two brothers from Frost Shark Palace," said Yang Song.


    "Frost Shark Palace?" Qin Yun was astonished. "Those two Skyfiends are extremely powerful. Their combined strength is enough to match that of a half-step Ancestral Fiend. I have no way of dealing with them."


    There were a bunch of fiendish experts in the Effulgent dominion. On an individual level, the two brothers of Frost Shark Palace were in no way inferior to Demon King Bear Mountain.


    "Don''t worry. I have long come up with a plan. Brother Qin Yun, all you need to do is cast your Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and help us with your domain! The ones really doing the attacking will be me and Wood Dragon Protector," said Yang Song. "With your domain aiding us, Wood Dragon Protector and I are confident that we can kill the two Frost Shark Palace brothers. Although they are powerful, you were able to survive in front of Palatial Lord Kuishi. I believe there is no threat to your self-preservation."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Brother Yang, I never expected you to invite Wood Dragon Protector. I heard that he is a demon dragon from ancient times. He was later subdued by a Buddhist mighty figure, and it has been some time since he has shown himself."


    "Brother Qin Yun, are you willing to join forces with us?" Yang Song''s eyes were filled with anticipation.


    At their level¡­


    Very few people were willing to risk their lives fighting Skyfiends! Getting someone to agree was very difficult.


    "I have been constantly fighting with the fiends recently, but I have yet to kill a seventh firmament Skyfiend or anything above that," said Qin Yun. "Prior to this, Palatial Lord Kuishi came to assassinate me. If I were to join forces with you and kill the two Frost Shark Palace brothers, the fiends will definitely hate me even more¡­ It will also increase their desire to kill me."


    "Besides, I''ve not cultivated for long. It''s best if I focus on my cultivation for now," said Qin Yun.


    Yang Song turned anxious when he heard that.


    "Brother Qin, you have extraordinary talent, which is why Palatial Lord Kuishi came to personally deal with you," said Yang Song immediately. "With the way the fiends work, they will only think of you as more of a threat after they fail once. How long can you hide?"


    "Perhaps they will temporarily give up after failing once." Qin Yun shook his head.


    Only empty promises were being made, and he was being asked to risk his life?


    It would have been fine if they were fellow disciples, but Yang Song was from the Primordial Beginning''s Jade Void Palace! How could he help for nothing?


    "Oh," said Yang Song immediately. "Once the two Frost Shark Palace brothers are killed, both Wood Dragon Protector and you will each receive half the spoils of war. How about that? You should understand that I made many preparations to kill them. It''s quite a substantial price."


    "Brother Yun, the two Frost Shark Palace brothers might have some hidden tricks up their sleeves. Back when you fought Bear Mountain, didn''t his strength exceed your expectations? In a battle of life and death, who knows what unforeseen events might happen? Don''t risk it," said Yi Xiao via voice transmission.


    Qin Yun naturally understood this point.


    This was the very reason one would not easily take action the stronger they were.


    Only the Physical Establishing Sages were relatively more combative.


    "Half of the spoils of war will be given to me?" Qin Yun drank the wine. "I''ll only get the spoils of war if we successfully kill the two Skyfiends. If we fail, there would be nothing! Brother Yang, you speak rather positively, but in a real life-and-death battle, who knows what will really happen?"


    Yang Song heaved a sigh of relief.


    He could tell that Qin Yun was willing to help; he was just raising the conditions.


    "This Qin Yun has very few treasures since he hasn''t cultivated for long. I heard that the most famous treasures he has are the Five Fires Calabash and Yin Water Chains. In terms of treasures, he can''t even compare with Bear Mountain," thought Yang Song. "Perhaps one treasure will be enough to move him."


    Yang Song considered for a moment before he asked with a smile, "Brother Qin Yun, I wonder what sort of conditions I must meet before you''ll be willing to help me?"


    "I''m a sword immortal with a very weak body. I''m afraid of death." Qin Yun placed his cup down and said casually, "Brother Yang Song, I heard that you have a Thousand Shadow Dark Boat which is good for escaping."


    Yang Song''s expression changed slightly, but he clenched his teeth and flipped his hand. A tiny boat appeared in his palm.


    "If I give you this flying boat, you have to help me deal with the two Frost Shark Palace brothers." Yang Song looked at Qin Yun as the tiny boat flew towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun extended his hand and grabbed it. He nodded and said, "Don''t worry. Since I''ve received your treasure, I am now tied to you by karma."


    "Haha, I also believe that you will not sabotage your cultivation for a mere flying boat." Yang Song immediately felt delighted seeing Qin Yun accept it.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao could not help but send a worried voice transmission. "Are you really going?"


    "I have never killed overtly powerful Skyfiends, yet Palatial Lord Kuishi came to assassinate me. There is no need to elaborate how much the fiends want me dead. All I need to do is quickly raise my strength. By joining forces with them to kill the two Frost Shark Palace brothers, I''ll obtain the spoils of war¡­ With that, I can exchange for more Water of the First Essence and continue nurturing my Intrinsic Flying Sword," said Qin Yun via voice transmission. "Besides, I have always wished for a treasure that is good for fleeing. I''ve just been too poor, so now, I finally have my wish-come-true."


    Although he could engage in Sword Kinesis Flight, he needed to release his Intrinsic Flying Sword while fighting his enemies.


    Without his Intrinsic Flying Sword, his flight speed was too slow! The Thousand Shadow Dark Boat¡­ made up for one of his weakness.


    "Haha, congratulations, Uncle-Master, for having your wish come true. Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin for receiving such a treasure," said Sect Master Jade Tripod with a laugh.


    "Let''s celebrate when we kill the two Frost Shark Palace brothers," said Qin Yun. "Brother Yang, when do we take action?"


    "It should be in the near future. I will contact Wood Dragon Protector again once we''ve make the adequate preparations," said Yang Song. "Brother Qin, are you able to set off at any time?"


    "Anytime," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright. As long as those two Frost Shark Palace brothers do not hide, we will take action soon," said Yang Song.


    "Alright." Qin Yun cast his gaze at Sect Master Jade Tripod. "I wish to meet Meng Huan. Is he in the sect?"


    "He is. He''s cultivating at Ashen Azure Peak," said Sect Master Jade Tripod with a smile.


    "Shall we go over now?" asked Qin Yun. "However, it has to be kept a secret. I do not wish for my relationship with Meng Huan to be exposed. I''m afraid I would implicate him."


    "Alright. We shall head over secretly. We won''t garner the attention of the inner sect disciples." Sect Master Jade Tripod nodded.


    "I''ll go take a look as well," said Yang Song with a smile.


    ¡­


    Immediately, the five secretly left the sect master''s cave abode and headed for Ashen Azure Peak.


    They secretly cast their Dharma spells. Sect Master Jade Tripod also controlled the sect''s massive array. It was naturally very easy for him to avoid the disciples.


    "Ashen Azure Peak is one of the six peaks of my Jade Tripod Sect. Typically, disciples have to survive the tribulations to become Skyimmortals before they can enter the six peaks," said the Dao Protector with a chuckle. "Exceptions are made for a very small number of Essence Soul realm disciples with extremely high talent to allow them into the six peaks."


    "Thank you, Sect Master Jade Tripod and Dao Protector," said Qin Yun.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and Dao Protector immediately smiled more radiantly when they heard Qin Yun thank them.


    "Meng Huan''s talent is still rather high," praised Sect Master Jade Tripod.


    Swoosh.


    Soon, the five silently landed in Ashen Azure Peak.


    "I know where Meng Huan''s cave abode is. I''ll lead the way." The Dao Protector said as he headed forward.


    "No, Huan''er is there." Qin Yun pointed to the right. "He and I are are connected by karma. I can easily find him through our shared karma."


    "Yes, yes, karmic ties can''t be wrong," added Sect Master Jade Tripod. "But why is he there instead of cultivating in his cave abode?"


    "Perhaps he''s visiting friends," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    With that said, the five proceeded over.


    "I''ve not met Meng Huan before. This is our first time, right? Brother Yun, how do you think Meng Huan should address me? Eldest Mom?" said Yi Xiao via voice transmission.


    Qin Yun did not say a word.


    They soon arrived in front of a cave that led deep into mountain.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was somewhat perplexed, but Sect Master Jade Tripod''s expression turned slightly nasty. With their strength, they could easily sense the situation deep inside the cave. It was a dungeon and prisoners were impounded in there. As for Meng Huan, he was sitting there cross-legged in silence, in charge of watching the prisoners.


    "Why is Huan''er here?" Qin Yun continued heading in.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and Dao Protector exchanged looks.


    "Why is this happening?" asked Sect Master Jade Tripod with a voice transmission.


    "The disciples are being too impudent." The Dao Protector was also enraged. They knew the rules of the sect, and easily figured out what the problem was.


    Yang Song looked at Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector with a faint smile before continuing in.


    The five entered together and proceeded down the passageway.


    Soon, they saw prison cells. Those that could be impounded in Ashen Azure Peak were either ordinary Skyimmortals or demons.


    Meng Huan was dressed in an azure-colored robe, sitting alone on a mat with his legs crossed. He was guarding the dark dungeons silently.


    "Disciples of Ashen Azure Peak have sect missions. He might have taken on this mission," said Dao Protector immediately.


    Qin Yun swept his gaze and could hardly contain his anger. He said lightly, "Sect Master Jade Tripod, Dao Protector, there are seven Skyimmortals and nine Skydemons imprisoned here! But the one in charge of watching them is a mere third Firmament Essence Soul? If any of these prisoners were to escape, how would my son, Meng Huan, be able to stop them? Even if Huan''er gives a warning, the prisoner might very well kill him, isn''t that so?"

 503 Disciplinary Action

    Chapter 503: Disciplinary Action


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Although Qin Yun was enraged, he could tell that Sect Master Jade Tripod and company were sincere in their desire to nurture Meng Huan. The situation in front of him was likely the work of some of the Jade Tripod Sect disciples. However, he had no way of interfering in the Jade Tripod Sect''s internal affairs, so all he could do was express his ''unhappiness.''


    He wished to use Sect Master Jade Tripod to give a warning, opening a clean path for his son in the Jade Tripod Sect.


    "Investigate what the disciples were doing," said Yang Song indifferently. As a third generation Jade Void Palace disciple, all the sects of the Primordial Beginning lineage in the various dominions had to show respect to this Immortal Yang Song.


    "Yes, yes," said Sect Master Jade Tripod immediately. "I''ll begin an investigation right away."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, rest assured. If the disciples had violated the sect rules and bullied a fellow disciple, I will definitely administer justice for Meng Huan," said the Dao Protector as well.


    Qin Yun answered tersely and no longer said another word.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector exchanged looks. They could tell that Qin Yun was truly annoyed.


    "What do we do now?" The Dao Protector asked via voice transmission.


    "Investigate the matter! Do a thorough one. Even if we don''t mete out any disciplinary action, Uncle-Master would probably do the honors to pander to Sword Immortal Qin," said Sect Master Jade Tripod via voice transmission. "Uncle-Master needs help from Sword Immortal Qin after all."


    "Let''s do it right. Since we are trying to show favor, why should we let Uncle-Master do the honors?" replied the Dao Protector via voice transmission.


    Due to their different levels of seniority, they were extremely reverent towards Yang Song.


    However, the Jade Tripod Sect was their fief! Their relationship with Qin Yun was also of utmost importance.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun walked out of the Dharma spell''s concealment and stood in front of Meng Huan.


    He looked at his son¡­


    His son was sitting cross-legged cultivating in solitude, yet remained calm.


    Qin Yun could not help but recall the past. When Huan''er was young, he practiced the way of the sword alone. He did not say much from morning to night and had an introverted personality. He did not change even when he reached the third firmament Essence Soul realm.


    Yi Xiao also walked out of the Dharma spell''s concealment. She looked at her husband and noticed how Qin Yun looked at Meng Huan. His gaze was filled with concern and warmth.


    "Oh?" Meng Huan sensed something as he opened his eyes, instantly seeing Qin Yun in front of him.


    "Dad?" Meng Huan stood up immediately in pleasant surprise.


    "Huan''er." Qin Yun smiled.


    Meng Huan was extremely excited before seeing the woman beside Qin Yun. The woman stood close, clearly having some sort of intimate relationship with Qin Yun.


    "Huan''er, this is my wife. Why don''t you address her as¡­" Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao, "Eldest Mom."


    Meng Huan understood immediately.


    The woman in front of him was his father''s wife in the Great Chang world, Yi Xiao. Back in the Ancient Augury World, he had heard from his father that he was a cultivator from the Great Chang world. After the dream of a hundred years, he was reincarnated into the Frost World. He did not have his memories awaken initially, but regained them after being inflicted with a lethal poison.


    "After Father regained his memories, his strength increased by leaps and bounds, but he no longer became intimate with Mom," thought Meng Huan. "At first glance, it was because Father held a grudge against Mom for using him, and how she indirectly caused Grandmaster''s death. But knowing what I know now, he must have recalled this Great Chang world wife of his after he regained his memories. Therefore, he never wanted to be intimate with Mom ever again."


    "Eldest Mom. Greetings, I''m Meng Huan." Meng Huan bowed respectfully.


    "Obedient child." Yi Xiao handed a Cosmic Bag to Meng Huan. "Keep it well."


    "Thank you, Eldest Mom." Meng Huan politely accepted it.


    "Sect Master Jade Tripod." Qin Yun turned his head. Sect Master Jade Tripod, the Dao Protector and Yang Song had also appeared. "Why don''t we go to my son''s cave abode to have a seat. I believe someone else should be appearing to watch this dungeon?"


    "Let''s go. We shall head to Meng Huan''s cave abode," Sect Master Jade Tripod said immediately. "There''s no need for you to bother with a trivial matter like watching the dungeon."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Meng Huan could not help but turn nervous seeing Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector. After all, they were of the highest standing in Jade Tripod Sect.


    ******


    Half a day later.


    In midair outside the Jade Tripod Sect.


    "Swoosh."


    Two figures in the form of streams of light came to a stop outside the Jade Tripod Sect. It was the short Daoist and his partner.


    "Senior Brother Qi, what do you think happened? Sect Master gave us a personal order to rush back?" The short Daoist was somewhat nervous. The sect master''s tone was very unkind, and the more he thought on it, the more flustered he became. "I didn''t do anything recently. Did the matter at Rosy Red Valley get exposed?"


    Qi immediately said, "Junior Brother Lu, don''t you let the cat out of the bag foolishly. Listen to what Sect Master has to say first."


    "Yes, yes. I know. I''m not that stupid," said Lu immediately as he clenched his teeth. "Let''s go in."


    Whoosh.


    The two flew straight through the Jade Tripod Sect''s array and soon arrived at Ashen Azure Peak.


    Inside Ashen Azure Peak''s Disciplinary Hall.


    Each of the six peaks of the Jade Tripod Sect had their duties. The main responsibility of the Ashen Azure Peak had was discipline! The Disciplinary Hall was also the Ashen Azure Peak''s main hall.


    The moment the short Daoist entered the Disciplinary Hall, he saw two figures sitting high up in the hall. In the middle was the grim-looking Sect Master Jade Tripod. Beside him was the Dao Protector who had heavy eyelids. The Hall Lord and Deputy Hall Lords of the Disciplinary Hall, all fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortals, were standing to the side.


    This made the short Daoist''s heart quiver. From the way things looked¡­ it was bad!


    "Greetings Sect Master, Dao Protector. I''m your humble disciple, Lu Fang." Lu Fang bowed as he trembled in fear.


    "Lu Fang, are you aware of your faults?" The Disciplinary Hall Lord shouted angrily.


    Lui Fang''s legs went limp the moment he was shouted at.


    Aware of his faults?


    "I, I do not know what wrong I have committed," he said, still having the ability to hold himself together.


    "You still say you aren''t aware of your faults?" scoffed the Disciplinary Hall Lord. "You accepted the sect''s mission which states clearly that the Ashen Azure Peak dungeon is to be guarded by you. Why was it left to Meng Huan to guard?"


    Lu Fang widened his eyes.


    It was for such a trivial matter? Was such a huge lineup needed?


    "I had urgent matters to deal with and Junior Brother Meng Huan was willing to help me watch the dungeons," explained Lu Fang immediately.


    "How dare you quibble!?" yelled the Disciplinary Hall Lord. "If you had urgent matters to tend to, it would have been fine getting another disciple to help watch the dungeons. But the dungeon imprisons Skyimmortals and Skydemons that have committed grave wrongdoings! To watch the dungeons, there is a basic requirement one must meet: to have the strength of a Skyimmortal. Why? It''s because by having sufficient strength, they can use the dungeon''s array formation to suppress any prison breaks! As for Meng Huan, he is only an ordinary third Firmament Essence Soul. Even if he uses the dungeon''s array formation¡­ a prisoner that escapes would probably kill Meng Huan with a simple Dharma spell!"


    "With his strength, he is not supposed to watch the dungeons, but you made him do so. This is a violation of the sect rules. And regardless if he was willing or not, placing him into danger shows how vicious you are!" The Disciplinary Hall Lord''s eyes were cold.


    Lu Fang turned extremely anxious when he heard that.


    He thought that the matter at Rosy Red Valley had been exposed! Who knew that it was because of his bullying of Meng Huan. He was now being charged with violating the sect rules and being vicious. That was a heavy charge!


    "Hall Lord, the dungeons are filled with layers of array formations. There is no way those prisoners can escape. Junior Brother Meng Huan was never in danger," said Lu Fang immediately.


    "What impudence," raged the Disciplinary Hall Lord. "If the dungeon is absolutely safe, why would we need you to watch it? It is to account for any possibilities! That''s why you are needed to guard it!"


    Lu Fang was taken aback.


    "By not watching the dungeons and delegating it to Meng Huan, you have treated the sect''s mission as a laughing matter!" Sect Master Jade Tripod finally spoke out. "By deliberately placing your fellow disciple in danger, you are more deserving of a harsh punishment. From today forward, you shall be sent to the Extreme Light world to gather the Frost Extreme Light for ten thousand years. You shall return only when the ten thousand years are up."


    "Ten thousand years?" Lu Fang was astounded.


    The punishment was just too harsh.


    The Extreme Light world was an extremely cold world. It was torture even for Skyimmortals. He had to suffer ten thousand years there and be tasked with gathering Frost Extreme Light?


    Lu Fang looked at Sect Master Jade Tripod, the Dao Protector and immediately understood something¡­ The sect master was standing up for Meng Huan! Although the sect had rules, the sect had a lot of disciples. If every matter, both minor and major, was dealt according to the most extreme extent of the sect rules, many disciples would have suffered disciplinary action.


    "Do you confess to your crime?" Sect Master Jade Tripod looked down.


    Lu Fang knew he was doomed. An ordinary Skyimmortal like him was like an ant in front of the sect master.


    He immediately knelt down reverently, sticking his forehead close to the ground and said extremely respectfully, "Yes, I confess to my crimes."


    "Hall Lord Lei, arrange to send him and the other two disciples to the Extreme Light world," instructed Sect Master Jade Tripod.


    "Yes," the Disciplinary Hall Lord answered respectfully.


    "Two other disciples?" Lu Fang was stunned.


    Moments later¡­


    A Deputy Hall Lord personally escorted them on a flying boat. On it were Lu Fang and the other two.


    "Senior Brother Wang? Both of you too?" Lu Fang looked at the two.


    "Is it because of Meng Huan?" The tall Wang asked with a bitter look.


    "Yes, Meng Huan." Lu Fang nodded.


    "I''m here because of Meng Huan too." A Daoist with triangular eyes curled his lips.


    The three disciples wore bitter looks. Although many in Ashen Azure Peak found Meng Huan a sore sight because he was allowed into Ashen Azure Peak despite his weak strength, the ones who really bullied Meng Huan were these three.


    The other disciples would, at worst, only verbally bullied Meng Huan.


    These three were the ones who took the most bold actions.


    "I never expected this inconspicuous punk to have such a huge backing."


    "Tragic."


    "I regret it."


    The three shook their heads helplessly and could only accept their punishment.


    Shoo!


    With the Deputy Hall Lord sitting at the bow of the flying boat, the three unlucky immortals sat in the stern sighing with regret. The flying boat rapidly tore through the void and headed for the Extreme Light world.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile in Meng Huan''s cave abode.


    There was a water mirror that showcased everything that happened in the Disciplinary Hall.


    Qin Yun did not say a word after seeing the outcome. The disciplinary actions were enough to make the other disciples in Ashen Azure Peak know¡­ that the sect master thought highly of Meng Huan. There were severe consequences for whoever bullied Meng Huan.


    "My two disciple-nephews sure know how things should be done." Yang Song waved his hand as the water mirror dissipated. Following that, he got up with a smile. "With this matter over, I won''t stay any longer. I will try my best to prepare our assault on Frost Shark Palace."


    "Brother Yang, I''ll be waiting for your summons then." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao got up to send him off.


    "The next time we meet will be when we deal with the two Frost Shark Palace brothers." Yang Song was filled with anticipation as well. "There''s no need to send me off."


    Swoosh.


    He immediately surged into the sky on a cloud and left the Jade Tripod Sect rapidly.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched him leave.


    "Brother Yun, aren''t you being rash by agreeing to his request?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I have to increase my strength as soon as possible so as to deal with the fiendish threat." Qin Yun looked at his wife. The assault by Kuishi had been harrowing. If he had failed to fend her off, he would have been dead, along with his wife. There was no mystery as to how much the fiends wanted him dead. If there was a first assassination, there would definitely be a second. He naturally had to be ready.

 504 Misty Rain Sword Dao

    Chapter 504: Misty Rain Sword Dao


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were in no rush to leave. Instead they chose to take up temporary residence in the Jade Tripod Sect. On the one hand, he could wait for Yang Song''s news, and on the other hand, Qin Yun wanted to use this opportunity teach his son properly.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector made special arrangements for the couple to stay in a cave abode meant for honored guests. Meng Huan also temporarily stayed there.


    Three months later, inside the cave abode.


    Meng Huan was controlling 99 flying swords which were attacking Qin Yun in the form of a huge cage. The 99 flying swords were unpredictable in their attacks, fusing with each other at random. It made Qin Yun smile.


    However, while simply standing there, Qin Yun controlled two wisps of Sword Qi condensed from the Heaven and Earth powers, making it simply a sparring of technique, but he was able to fully fend off Meng Huan''s attack.


    "Retrieve." Meng Huan beckoned as the 99 flying swords flew back rapidly.


    "I''m still lacking a lot," said a resigned Meng Huan.


    "Your improvement over the past three months has been rather huge," praised Qin Yun. Even though he had very high expectations of his son, the improvement Meng Huan had undergone in three months had pleasantly surprised Qin Yun! His son''s talent was higher than he expected!


    In fact, as a native of the Frost World, Meng Huan was the only one who ascended after so much time. That was enough to prove the extreme quality of his talent.


    Never mind the environment of the Frost World, stepping into the Dao within decades was a rare cultivation speed for even the Great Chang world! His entry into Jade Tripod Sect''s Ashen Azure Peak was partially because of Qin Yun, but it was also because his talent was considered quite good among third firmament Essence Souls in the sect.


    "Dad, it''s you who taught me well," said Meng Huan with a smile. "Ever since I was recruited into the Jade Tripod Sect, I''ve found that the three masters who taught me their sword arts and the numerous manuals are not very suited for me. Most of the time, I research the sword art manuals by myself. Dad, three months of your teaching matches three decades of my self-study."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "Huan''er, years ago, you studied the Sword of Heaven Earth I created. Although there are some differences in your Sword Dao and mine, it is generally similar."


    His Sword Dao could be divided into Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Meng Huan''s Sword Dao¡­ could be described as an Iceheart Sword Dao. He had a heart as cold as ice, one that could demonstrate the Heaven and Earth!


    "Furthermore, the three masters I had were at most third firmament Skyimmortals. In terms of sword arts, they are far inferior to you," said Meng Huan.


    "Then study well," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    He suddenly sensed something as the void rippled out beside him. Following that, he was vaguely connected to a distant spot. Yang Song was standing there, smiling. "Brother Qin Yun, make your preparations. In three days, Wood Dragon Protector and I will meet you at the Jade Tripod Sect. We shall set off together."


    Qin Yun knew that it was finally time for the assault.


    "Alright, I''ll be waiting for the two of you at Jade Tripod Sect," said Qin Yun with a smile. Following that, the void rift closed.


    Yi Xiao, who had been drawing a distance away and watching the father-son duo practicing their swordplay, put down her brush when she saw this scene. "Brother Yun, are you setting off already?"


    "Yes, it will be soon." Qin Yun nodded. Then, he turned to his son. "Huan''er."


    "Dad." Meng Huan could also tell that his father seemed to have something important to do.


    Qin Yun first took out a Cosmic Bag and handed it to his son. "The path of cultivation requires Dharmic formulations, money, companionship, and land. External objects are also rather important. Keep this well."


    "Yes, Dad." Meng Huan took it.


    Following that, Qin Yun took out a manual with an azure cover, handling it with the utmost seriousness. On it were the words ''Misty Rain.'' He handed the manual to his son. "Huan''er, I''m still experimenting when it comes to my Sword Dao. Although I''m good at producing the Heavenly Cycles, it mainly represents the Heaven and Earth! However, my Sword Dao is Heaven, Earth, and Man¡­ Therefore, there are still some differences. Hence, take from my Sword Dao whatever is suitable for you. Whatever isn''t suitable should be discarded."


    Meng Huan received it solemnly. When he saw the words on the cover, he muttered, "Misty Rain?"


    "When I was young, I created my Misty Rain Sword Art," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I also named my Intrinsic Flying Sword the Misty Rain Sword¡­ Although my Sword Dao is still incomplete, I have temporarily decided to call it the Misty Rain Sword Dao."


    "Although I have learned many sword arts after entering the Green Touring Palace, they are not to be taught to outsiders. I believe that this book I created myself¡­ should suit you." Qin Yun looked at his son.


    "Alright, I will definitely focus on cultivation," said Meng Huan.


    Qin Yun also felt some pangs of anticipation.


    His Sword Dao had already been quite substantially accumulated. However, only by attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit would his Sword Dao have the qualifications to be called a Great Dao. When that happened, his Sword Dao manual would be ranked in the top ten of the Three Realms.


    But at present? It was only in an embryonic form. It could only be considered to have some interesting highlights among manuals below those of Golden Immortals.


    ¡­


    Two days later.


    Whoosh. Whoosh. Two figures descended in front of the cave abode where Qin Yun and his wife lived temporarily.


    "Brother Qin," shouted Yang Song loudly.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao immediately came to welcome them. They instantly saw the burly single-horned man draped in a long robe beside Yang Song. The man''s eyes were red and he had a head of luxuriant golden hair. His forehead was bulged and his nostrils were huge. Qin Yun knew that this person was Wood Dragon Protector!


    Wood Dragon Protector was once a demon dragon in the Ancient Heavenly Courts era. Later, when the Ancient Heavenly Courts were destroyed, the Buddhists had subdued him with the intention of making him a mount. He then became a follower of a Buddhist mighty figure.


    In fact, there were some lucky demons from the Ancient Heavenly Courts era who were taken in as disciples of the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. The others who weren''t so lucky either fled or were captured. Many were made mounts.


    Even a few ancient Sagedemon mighty figures were captured to be made mounts. Of course, most Sagedemons had their freedom.


    "Brother Yang, and I believe this is Wood Dragon Protector," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I have long heard of Wood Dragon Protector''s fame."


    Wood Dragon Protector swept his eyes over Qin Yun and grunted. "I have also long heard that you, Sword Immortal Qin, killed a Demon King not long after you were recruited into Green Touring Palace."


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    This Wood Dragon Protector¡­ was also a great demon from the Ancient Heavenly Courts. He naturally wasn''t pleased with Qin Yun''s killing of Prestige Goat.


    "Wood Dragon." Yang Song frowned slightly.


    However, Wood Dragon Protector said indifferently, "Don''t worry. I will definitely do what we agreed upon properly. Sword Immortal Qin¡­ all you need to do during this assault on the two Frost Shark Palace brothers is cast your Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. Just help us hold back the eighteen fiendish servants. Leave the rest to me and Brother Yang. Oh, by the way. Be careful about your own life. While you hold back the eighteen fiendish servants, the Frost Shark Palace brothers will definitely think of means to kill you."


    "Even Palatial Lord Kuishi was helpless against Brother Qin Yun, so it''s impossible for the brothers to do so," Yang Song said with a smile as he looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, those eighteen fiendish servants¡­ are eighteen avatars the Elder Palatial Lord of Frost Shark Palace refined himself. Each avatar has the strength of a ninth firmament Skyfiend. When the eighteen of them take up formation, they are quite a handful. This is when your Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm is needed. I heard that your Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm has 360 stellar light flying swords?"


    "If everything is as the intelligence says, that each of the eighteen avatars have the strength of ordinary ninth firmament Skyfiends, then I am confident that the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s suppression, together with the Swords of Stellar Light, can hold them back," said Qin Yun.


    For instance, Old Fiend Fire Puppet might be a problem for others, but Qin Yun was perfectly suited to deal with him.


    And now, Qin Yun was a lot stronger than when he first fought Old Fiend Fire Puppet. His sword arts had also improved tremendously. Holding back the eighteen avatars would not be difficult since he need not kill them.


    "Brother Yang must have told you that we each take half the spoils of war." Wood Dragon Protector looked at Qin Yun and said in a unfriendly manner, "To prevent any future dispute, let''s agree upon this now. If the two Frost Shark Palace brothers are slain, the Second Palatial Lord, General Nightmare Dragon''s, treasures are mine. The Eldest Palatial Lord''s treasures will be yours. How about that?"


    Qin Yun raised his eyebrow slightly as he looked at Wood Dragon Protector.


    According to the intelligence, both Palatial Lords were of equal strength, so it was likely their treasures were equal in number. But if Wood Dragon Protector was going out of his way to stake a claim, then clearly¡­


    General Nightmare Dragon had a treasure that Wood Dragon Protector wanted.


    "Alright, the Second Palatial Lord''s treasures will be yours, while the Eldest Palatial Lord''s treasures will be mine." Qin Yun did not dispute the matter. After all, he was only using the treasures to exchange for Connate Wonders. And before slaying them, who could be certain that the Eldest Palatial Lord''s treasures were fewer than the Second Palatial Lord?


    "Haha, since the negotiations are settled, let''s first confirm the exact plan for our assault. After we decide on it, it will be time to attack," said Yang Song.


    "Please come in for your discussions." Yi Xiao finally spoke out.


    "Alright." Wood Dragon Protector answered tersely and walked straight in first.


    "Bear with it. His temper is just this bad," Yang Song said with a voice transmission while he walked into the hall with Qin Yun.

 505 Two Frost Shark Palace Brothers

    Chapter 505: Two Frost Shark Palace Brothers


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The Frost Shark world was perennially cold. Within the sea that appeared endless in sight floated a group of land masses formed from huge blocks of ice. On one of the biggest ice plates stood a lofty palace. There were many fiends guarding it.


    The palace was the infamous Frost Shark Palace in the Effulgent dominion.


    Sou! Sou! Sou!


    A few figures flew down from the sky and towards Frost Shark Palace.


    Inside Frost Shark Palace.


    There were beautiful demon dancers dancing. By the side, there was a music accompanist. Numerous Skyfiends were seated on both sides of the palace as they enjoyed the alcohol and the performance. Seated high above the hall were the two Palatial Lords. The Eldest Palatial Lord, General Frost Shark, was extremely plump as he chuckled. Beside him, Second Palatial Lord, General Nightmare Dragon, wore a cold expression. He even had dragon scales on his face.


    The two Palatial Lords were drinking alcohol while enjoying the music and dance until both ended simultaneously.


    "Palatial Lords," an attendant said with a obsequious smile. "The Fiend Yang world just sent a batch of human females who are disciples of the Feather Clothes Immortal Sect. All of them are good at dancing. After being selected and trained in the Fiend Yang world, these female human cultivators are all very obedient. Their dancing and singing are even more impressive. Palatial Lords, are you interested in watching?"


    "Feather Clothes Immortal Sect? Humans that are good at dancing?"


    "That sounds pretty good." The seated Skyfiends said one after another.


    Frost Shark smiled with a nod. "Alright, bring them on."


    The demons who had just finished dancing all felt disgruntled. However, they obediently retreated to a corner. Most of them were foxes or cranes, female demonesses who were innately good at dancing.


    "Humans who are good at dancing? What a joke! How can they compare with us foxes?"


    "The Palatial Lords and the rest only want it because it''s something fresh." The female fiendish demonesses discussed via voice transmissions.


    Soon.


    A group of human dancers flew over. They were all cultivators and their sleeves were long and fluid. Their figures swayed and moved like a dream.


    The moment these Feather Clothes Immortal Sect female disciples appeared, the group of Skyfiends had their eyes lit up.


    "Not bad," praised Nightmare Dragon despite being a man of few words.


    "Second Brother, if you like it, I can give you some of my human females. They will obediently tend to you," said Frost Shark with a smile.


    "Thank you, Brother," said Nightmare Dragon.


    "Just remember not to eat them this time," said Frost Shark.


    "I can''t help it sometimes." Nightmare Dragon said in a muffled voice.


    Frost Shark shook his head slightly.


    When it came to ''eating,'' his divine power was the Heaven Devouring divine power! He was best at eating, but he could usually rein himself in. However, Nightmare Dragon was a lot more unbridled. It was common for him to decimate and devour living beings.


    ¡­


    While the Frost Shark Palace brothers were feasting and enjoying the performance, Qin Yun, Yang Song, and Wood Dragon Protector were discussing the strategy to deal with the enemy in the Effulgent Great World''s Jade Tripod Sect.


    "We know most of the means available to the Frost Shark Palace brothers. However, we need to be careful of any hidden techniques they have up their sleeves." Yang Song swept his gaze across Qin Yun and Wood Dragon Protector. "The both of you know of the various counter strategies. When the time comes, we will have to adapt to the circumstances."


    "It''s the easiest for me. All I need is to repress the eighteen fiendish servants of the Eldest Palatial Lord," said Qin Yun with a smile. "As for any other countermeasures, that will mainly depend on the both of you."


    However, Wood Dragon Protector said coldly, "Don''t you make any mistakes in your role. The eighteen fiendish servants aren''t afraid of death and all of them have the strength of ordinary ninth firmament Skyfiends. If you can''t hold them off, our assault will definitely fail once the eighteen of them surround Brother Yang and I."


    "Don''t worry. Leave it to me," said Qin Yun.


    "Wood Dragon Protector, trust Brother Qin Yun," said Yang Song with a smile. "If there aren''t any more questions, shall we set off now?"


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Wood Dragon Protector nodded as well.


    "Let''s go then."


    The trio walked out the hall. When Qin Yun saw his wife waiting outside, he said, "Wait for me in the Jade Tripod Sect for the next few days."


    Yi Xiao nodded gently.


    Yang Song rapidly flew into the sky on a cloud with Qin Yun and Wood Dragon Protector.


    Jade Tripod Sect was a sect established by Perfected Jade Tripod after all. The sect''s array formations were personally set up by a Golden Immortal who specially descended into the world. It was completely impossible to cast Major Void Transference inside the sect! Only when Qin Yun and company flew out of the Jade Tripod Sect did Yang Song cast Major Void Transference.


    ¡­


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Major Void Transference was cast twice consecutively.


    They were already very close to Frost Shark world after the first cast, and with a slight adjustment for the second cast, they appeared directly on the surface of the Frost Shark planet.


    Yang Song looked down as his eyes suffused golden light. Although they were very far away, he could clearly see Frost Shark Palace.


    "We will take action soon." Yang Song looked at Qin Yun and Wood Dragon Protector as he smiled. "If we successfully slay them, we will probably send tremors throughout the Effulgent dominion."


    "I have yet to kill a Skyfiend that''s at the seventh firmament or higher. I never expected to jump straight to dealing with the two Palatial Lords of Frost Shark Palace." Qin Yun was filled with anticipation as well.


    Qin Yun was not confident in winning a fight with either of the two Palatial Lords¡­


    However, that was how a life-and-death battle was! At times, it was possible to kill the enemy with one hit! For instance, Qin Yun''s body was very weak. If the enemy tore through Qin Yun''s defenses and landed a strike on his body, even if it was a very weak one, it would probably instantly pulverize him.


    This was the principle.


    Apart from Physical Establishing Sages who were pretty much invulnerable, most experts were meticulous in their life-preservation means. They could be considered powerful, with their potent divine powers and Dharma spells, but they could also be considered weak. Their bodies and Essence Souls could be easily destroyed. It would render all those years of cultivation for naught.


    This was the very reason one would not easily embroil themselves in a life-and-death battle once they reached a certain strength.


    Back in the war of the Ancient Heavenly Courts'' destruction, and the war of the three Daoist schools¡­ the battles caused blood to flow like rivers. Many mighty figures lost their lives.


    "My main duty is to repress. I have to be extremely careful. My Intrinsic Flying Sword''s most important task is to protect me," thought Qin Yun. All he needed to do was play his part well and not make mistakes.


    "Brother Wood Dragon, Brother Qin Yun. Be prepared!" Yang Song shouted with a deep voice, "Let''s go!"


    Swoosh.


    In one Major Void Transference, Qin Yun felt the scene before him change. He realized he had arrived above an icy continent. Far into the distance was the lofty Frost Shark Palace.


    "Out." Yang Song waved his hand, and immediately, five array flags appeared beside him. The five array flags instantly turned ethereal before five gigantic array flags appeared a great distance away and surrounded them. The surrounding area was under his full control.


    Simultaneously, an azure flame sprang to life as it formed a sea of fire that spread towards Frost Shark Palace.


    Crackle~


    An array formation surfaced around Frost Shark Palace as a group of Skyfiends flew out. Leading them were General Frost Shark and General Nightmare Dragon.


    "Who has the audacity to attack our Frost Shark Palace?"


    "Someone''s really courting death." The group of Skyfiends were still angrily shouting.


    However, Frost Shark and Nightmare Dragon were looking at their surroundings solemnly.


    "Five Directions Azure Fire Flags." Frost Shark''s expression sank. He said via voice transmission, "It''s Yang Song. He sure can bid his time. Back then, I killed his Dao partner and he fought me like a maniac. Later, there was no longer any news of him and I thought he had long given up. I never expected him to take action after all these years."


    "The surrounding void out to five thousand kilometers has been repressed. The Major Void Transference talismans cannot be used." Nightmare Dragon''s eyes shimmered as he looked around. "Apart from Yang Song, there''s Wood Dragon Protector, as well as that¡­ new upstart, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Since he dares to take action after biding his time all these years, he definitely has some confidence," said Frost Shark via voice transmission. "Second Brother, we will have to risk our lives. At the very least, we need to last until Fiend Supremacy sends reinforcements to save us."


    Both of them had avatars in the Tenebrous Fiend world and had sought Fiend Supremacy''s help. One had to request for help right at the beginning. Asking for help at the end would be too late!


    Fiend Supremacy was also instantly informed of Yang Song, Wood Dragon Protector, and Qin Yun''s collective assault on the two Frost Shark Palace brothers.

 506 The Crazed Immortal Yang Song

    Chapter 506: The Crazed Immortal Yang Song


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Yang Song, you sure managed to bide your time! From the looks of it, you aren''t a human that cultivated into an immortal, but a turtle that did so!" Frost Shark''s voice reverberated through the world as his left hand held a black gonfalon.


    He shook the black gonfalon.


    Immediately, eighteen wisps of black mist flew out, manifesting themselves as eighteen black-armored fiend generals. All of them looked ferocious as they charged forward with a war cry.


    The eighteen black-armored fiend generals were the eighteen fiend servants of General Frost Shark. It was his most famous attack, one that was feared throughout the Effulgent dominion. The eighteen fiend servants were in fact superior-grade Fiend Soldiers.


    The Daoists had Cast Beans that made Soldiers and methods to refine Dao Soldiers. As for fiendish cultivators, they also had means to cultivate Fiend Soldiers. For fiends like Frost Shark, the difficult of cultivating Fiend Soldiers to the level of ninth firmament Skyfiends was extremely high. The Dharmic formulation needed was also very brilliant.


    Ordinary Fiend Soldiers would have have some form of autonomous intelligence, just like a Guardian General. But no matter how intelligent they were, how high could their realms be?


    Therefore, the best puppets, or the best Fiend Soldiers¡­ instead had their intelligence wiped away. They were completely controlled by their masters.


    For instance, Old Fiend Fire Puppet would personally control his horde of puppets.


    These eighteen fiendish servants were likewise personally controlled by Frost Shark. With his high realm, the might he delivered from personally controlling the eighteen fiendish servants was tens of times more powerful than if the fiendish servants were to act independently.


    Furthermore, the eighteen fiendish servants were fused with the supreme-grade Numinous treasure, Hundred Fiend Gonfalon, giving them undying bodies. Even if their bodies were temporarily destroyed, they could recover after some time from inside the gonfalon. Therefore, Frost Shark spent most of his time and efforts on nurturing his fiendish servants. Usually, he would send one or two fiendish servants to handle any danger he encountered.


    "Each of my eighteen fiendish servants are physically strong, all capable of matching ninth firmament Skyfiends. I want to see what is giving Yang Song his confidence." Frost Shark was rather careful as well.


    Whoosh! The eighteen fiendish servants charged at Qin Yun, Yang Song, and Wood Dragon Protector.


    "Hmph!"


    The distant Qin Yun harrumphed coldly as 360 Swords of Stellar Light immediately condensed around him. Stellar forces descended down like a torrent, instantly covering the surrounding fifteen hundred kilometers.


    Divine power¡ªHeavenly Cycle Stellar Realm!


    The heavy weight of the stellar forces pressed down on the eighteen fiendish servants and at the same time the 360 Swords of Stellar Light split off into three potions, with each portion having 120 Swords of Stellar Light. Their goal was to hinder the three groups of fiendish servants.


    "Flowers Wilting." With a thought, Qin Yun conjured his strongest confinement sword art to date.


    After drawing from the wisp of Chaos concept, he mastered Flowers Wilting from the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart.


    And¡­


    Three zones appeared in midair. The three groups of fiendish servants were confined by the numerous Swords of Stellar Light. Each set of 120 Swords of Stellar Light formed a world of flower petals. As the petals wilted, they began to randomly flutter, but each fiendish servant was caught up in the storm of flower petals.


    "Darn it."


    "Begone!" The fiendish servants roared in a counterattack. As Frost Shark controlled them with all his might, the fiendish servants delivered attacks that were even more brilliant and potent.


    However, as the petals spun and floated around, at first seeming extremely weak and frail, once they came close to the fiendish servants they would feel like they were stuck in a quagmire. Even if they used all their strength to tear through the petals'' hindrance, more swaths of petals would flutter over.


    The Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart was considered the best among all the Sword Dao manuals in the Three Realms. Each separate Flowers Wilting, which was formed with 120 Swords of Stellar Light, trapped six of the fiendish servants within. Although they struggled with all their might, they were unable to break out of the flowers'' bondage.


    The three groups of flower patterns formed a spherical zone, with each zone trapping six fiendish servants within.


    The eighteen fiendish servants were completely trapped.


    "Good." Yang Song smiled when he saw this. "The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm divine power was famous for trapping enemies back during the era of the Ancient Heavenly Courts. When that ancient demon Celestial Thearch released his 360 stars fully, a group of Golden Immortals mighty figures would be trapped within. Qin Yun''s sword art version is similarly good at trapping enemies."


    "Kill!"


    An angry roar reverberated.


    After Qin Yun took action, Wood Dragon Protector, who constantly found Qin Yun a sore sight, took action as well. His body phased before transforming into a ten-thousand-feet tall figure that stood towering above all. Dragon scales appeared across various spots on his skin as his hands transformed into a pair of dragon claws. The claws held an unadorned wooden pole that was both thick and long like a heavenly column.


    Wood Dragon Protector brandished his pole like Pangu waving his axe before he smashed down.


    "What insolence." Nightmare Dragon had a grotesque expression as his body similarly phased into a ten-thousand-feet tall figure. He held a spear that had water swirling around it and lifted it to meet the gigantic pole.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Wood Dragon Protector and Nightmare Dragon clashed intensely.


    One of them was an ancient demon dragon and had been a disciple of a Buddhist mighty figure. He cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage and had an extremely resilient body. His melee combat arts were also extremely honed.


    The other was a fearsome fiend dragon. Similarly, he had focused on his body. Although the cultivation of his body was slightly inferior, he was even stronger because of his divine power, making him even more overbearing.


    It was an equal clash!


    Qin Yun was restraining the eighteen fiendish servants of Frost Shark.


    "You shall die today, Frost Shark." Yang Song''s eyes were filled with hate as he waved his hand. Six raven-black beams of light flew out and towards Frost Shark at an astonishingly fast speed.


    Frost Shark''s expression changed slightly when he saw this. With his eighteen fiendish servants restrained, he only had half his means available to him.


    "Hmph." Frost Shark grunted coldly as he waved his hand, sending two golden wheels flying out.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The two golden wheels spun as flew into the path of the six raven-black beams of light. However, they only barely hindered three beams and failed to obstruct the rest.


    Only after the three raven-black beams of light were blocked did they show their true selves¡ªthree sharp spearheads. Each of them were covered in layers of blood-colored runes as they emitted the foul smell of blood.


    "Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads?" Frost Shark''s expression changed drastically.


    "These are treasures I went to great lengths to exchange for with Magus Gate. I have prepared this especially for you." Yang Song''s eyes were filled with derangement.


    "No."


    Flowers Wilting held down his eighteen fiendish servants as they struggled frenetically, but they were unable to escape its restraint.


    "Darn it." Frost Shark could only control his two golden wheels to block off the attacks as best as he could while releasing life-preservation items to stall for time.


    ¡­


    "Let''s leave quickly."


    "Retreat! Retreat back to Frost Shark Palace."


    The group of Skyfiends who had been blustering behind the two Palatial Lords had long retreated out of fear. After all, with the two Palatial Lords already at a disadvantage, they would only be sending themselves to their deaths if they joined in the foray.


    "Whoosh."


    And in the clouds far away, a figure appeared.


    She was none other than a red-robed female Skyfiend with four sharp curved horns. She held a trident in hand as she rapidly tore through the sky. Her eyes were filled with coldness and she instantly noticed the distant Qin Yun.


    "Hmph, this Qin Yun just barely survived my assassination, and yet here he is dealing with the two Frost Shark Palace brothers." Kuishi sneered inwardly.


    Kuishi was a half-step Ancestral Fiend who cultivated her body. She was adept at melee combat, so she was the person of choice to handle complicated situations. Fiend Supremacy had sent her to aid the two brothers.


    "It''s Palatial Lord Kuishi." Frost Shark turned delighted when he saw that.


    "Brother, hold on. As long as Palatial Lord Kuishi arrives in time, we will not only be able to extricate ourselves from the predicament, we might even be able to launch a counteroffensive," Nightmare Dragon said via voice transmission. He could tell that his elder brother was in a terrible situation. Frost Shark was desperately using his life-preservation items to withstand the Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads in a bid to stall for time.


    "Fiend Supremacy has sent reinforcements. It''s Palatial Lord Kuishi." Yang Song remained calm when he saw this scene from afar. He sent a voice transmission. "Brother Qin Yun, Wood Dragon Protector, the Five Directions Azure Fire Flags array I set up has sealed off the void for five thousand kilometers out. She can only use Major Void Transference to appear outside the array''s boundaries. She will have to fly five thousand kilometers before reaching us."


    "In the time it takes for her to traverse that distance, we have to kill the two Frost Shark Palace brothers."


    "I''m in charge of restraining the eighteen fiendish servants. The rest is up to the both of you." Qin Yun was very relaxed as well.


    A distance of five thousand kilometers?


    Just flight alone would take a while.


    If one was dealing with an ordinary Golden Immortal or Buddha, flight could take a few seconds. No matter how fast Kuishi was, she could only fly about a thousand kilometers in that span of time.


    ¡­


    As Kuishi was flying at full speed, Nightmare Dragon was also completely embroiled in battle with Wood Dragon Protector.


    Frost Shark was having a hard time fending off the Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The barrier that protected him was also being destroyed bit by bit.


    He had a nasty expression, and when the Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads finally broke through all the barriers, they came straight for him.


    "Roar~" Frost Shark suddenly opened his mouth.


    The phantom of a gigantic mutated demon, the Frost Shark, appeared in midair. Frost Shark originally lived in at the bottom of an extremely cold sea. He had a massive body and could devour everything. General Frost Shark was a Frost Shark that cultivated and took form. His strongest divine power was the Heaven Devouring divine power which could be cultivate because of his talent and foundations.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    When Frost Shark opened his mouth, the gigantic Frost Shark phantom behind him opened its mouth as well. As though a hole had appeared in the world, everything started to be sucked in by the giant mouth. The Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads which were attacking him ended up flying into the gigantic mouth due to the devouring effect. They shrank as they flew before completely being swallowed.


    Following that, Frost Shark closed his mouth.


    He even burped as he sneered at Yang Song. "Yang Song, my Heaven Devouring divine power has long been cultivated to a brand new level. I can devour even supreme-grade Numinous treasures."


    However, Yang Song had a deranged look in his eyes as he said with a voice transmission, "Frost Shark, do you know why I specifically sought out the Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads to deal with you?"


    "Explode!" Yang Song''s eyes were filled with a madness.


    "Boom!!!"


    A terrifying eruption blasted from within Frost Shark''s stomach. His stomach bloated as his expression changed. "This Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads is problematic!"


    "I got Magus Gate to specially refine this for me. It was tailored to you." As Yang Song''s eyes looked at Frost Shark''s bloated stomach, his eyes turned red. "Your Heaven Devouring divine power is powerful, but you will still die!"


    Yang Song''s aura suddenly rose intensely as terrifying Dharmic powers surged out everywhere. At that moment, the might of his aura was even sufficient to suppress the rapidly approaching Kuishi!


    "You are burning your Essence Soul? You have gone mad!" Frost Shark''s eyes were filled with despair as his stomach rapidly expanded.


    "I went mad the day Xi''er died!" Yang Song''s eyes were filled with madness.


    Frost Shark''s stomach expanded to a size several times larger than the rest of his body.


    "No¡ª" Frost Shark''s eyes were filled with indignation.


    "Bam!"


    With an explosion, Frost Shark was blasted into pieces as six raven-black beams of light flew out.


    Frost Shark was dead!

 507 Spectator sQin Yuns

    Chapter 507: Spectator ''Qin Yun''


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Kuishi, who was flying over rapidly, saw this scene from afar. Her heart could not help but jolt. Frost Shark had only exchanged a few blows with Yang Song before he lost his life. He had died too quickly, so quickly that he didn''t even last a few seconds.


    "He burned his Essence Soul?" Kuishi was alarmed when she saw Yang Song''s terrifying aura. "He has really gone mad. He doesn''t even care about his cultivation anymore."


    Qin Yun, who was originally tasked with restraining the eighteen fiendish servants, sighed as well. "So the ultimate move up Brother Yang''s sleeve was to burn his Essence Soul."


    The souls of ordinary mortals were very important.


    As for Skyimmortal Essence Souls, they were even more important. They were practically vital to their very being!


    Burning one''s Essence Soul was far worse than burning one''s soul. The damage reached down to one''s fundamentals, and one''s perceptivity would drop drastically. Ordinary people with damaged souls could turn into retards, but for Skyimmortal Essence Souls, the decline in perceptivity¡­ pretty much ended one''s cultivation career.


    And that was only one aspect of it.


    The burning of one''s Essence Soul could also result in memory loss.


    The stronger an Essence Soul was, the more intricate and mighty one''s Dharmic powers were! After an Essence Soul weakened, the Dharmic powers would also weaken. For instance, the purity of Yang Song''s Dharmic powers would decline drastically after this battle, resulting in him losing much of his strength strength.


    It was extremely important to maintain a powerful Essence Soul.


    For instance, the reason why Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers were so substantial had to do with the condensation of a purplish-gold Golden Core back when he was still mortal. He had also created a sword immortal Dharmic formulation. It made his Dharmic powers extremely mighty at the Essence Soul realm. Just like a skyscraper, it could only be built taller with a firm foundation.


    A skyscraper''s every level was extremely important at every height.


    It was the same with cultivation! If each step''s foundation was mighty, one''s Dharmic powers would be sufficiently potent after reaching the Skyimmortal or Golden Immortal realm! This was also why Dao Ancestor disciples were so much more powerful than itinerant cultivators. It was because they had extremely powerful Dharmic formulations that ensured robustness at each step.


    Burning one''s Essence Soul weakened them down to their foundations.


    "He severed his cultivation path by damaging his Essence Soul. His Dharmic powers will drop drastically from now on¡­ So this is his killer move." Qin Yun watched silently.


    "Kill!"


    Yang Song''s hair flailed as his eyes were filled with madness. He controlled the six raven-black beams of light as they shot towards Nightmare Dragon.


    That moment was destined to be the most lustrous moment of Yang Song''s life.


    "Brother!" Nightmare Dragon was dazed with shock upon watching it play out. His brother, General Frost Shark, had died so quickly? While still reeling in shock, Wood Dragon Protector ruthlessly smacked his shoulder with a pole, sending him flying back. Despite cracking his shoulder bone, Nightmare Dragon ignored it since he rapidly recovered from the injury.


    "Those Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads are problematic. Furthermore, Yang Song has burned his Essence Soul. His Dharmic powers at this moment match that of a Golden Immortal." Nightmare Dragon looked at the six raven-black beams of light that came flying at him. As he brandished his spear to fend off Wood Dragon Protector, he tried his best to save himself.


    Wood Dragon Protector was delighted seeing this. With a flick of his finger, a bean flew out.


    The green bean had dense golden runes on its surface. As it flew out, it rapidly grew, producing a large number of long vines and leaves. These vines and leaves rapidly wrapped themselves around Nightmare Dragon.


    Daoism''s ubiquitous Cast Beans for Soldiers were really just another manifestation of talisman amulets. Some could be used indefinitely, while others had one-time uses, just like one-time use Dao talismans.


    "Scram!" Nightmare Dragon brandished his spear in a deranged manner as his might increased a little. Although he thrashed in every direction like a mad man, the countless vines and leaves constantly pestered him. They grew again after being damaged. Instantly, a massive number of vines twined around Nightmare Dragon''s body, as though he was trapped in a quagmire.


    "It''s time for you to die." Wood Dragon Protector waved his pole and thrust it straight into Wood Dragon Protector''s chest. The bound Nightmare Dragon could barely raise his spear at a much slower speed, so a bloody hole was left in his chest. However, the hole quickly healed once the pole retracted.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The six raven-black beams of light arrived.


    Nightmare Dragon revealed a look of horror and despair as he struggled frantically, "No, no, no¡ª"


    There was no way he could withstand the six beams of light in his present state of restraint.


    The Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads bored straight into Nightmare Dragon''s body! They were extremely insidious to begin with. Furthermore, the spearheads were sacrificial in nature due to their tailor-made purpose of killing Frost Shark. They could only withstand sixty-six black blood hexes, but Yang Song had commissioned Magus Gate to specially infuse ninety-six black blood hexes during the refinement process. It made the spearheads much stronger, but every use would damage them. Perhaps the spearheads would disintegrate after two or three uses.


    The Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads had a value that matched ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures.


    But they could only be used two to three times?


    Furthermore, Yang Song was burning his Essence Soul. His Dharmic powers had reached a brand new level, so as he controlled the Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads, he produced an even more terrifying strength.


    Nightmare Dragon''s body was constantly riddled with holes as the terrifying black blood hex permeated into his Essence Soul.


    "No, no, no¡ª" Nightmare Dragon struggled indignantly, but his struggles only turned weaker. Finally, he stopped moving as he was completely bound by the vines and leaves. All that was left was a tied-up corpse.


    Nightmare Dragon was dead!


    As such, both Palatial Lords of Frost Shark Palace had perished.


    "He''s dead, they are both dead." Yang Song''s aura weakened as he muttered to himself. "Xi''er, I have finally avenged you. I have avenged you."


    He was a third-generation Jade Void Palace disciple. How stringent was Jade Void Palace in its acceptance of disciples? He was no doubt an elite, and the Dharmic formulation he cultivated was one of the best in the Three Realms. His mighty Dharmic powers were heads and shoulders above that of ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals. But now, as his Dharmic powers decreased constantly, his aura had already dropped to the equivalent of an ordinary fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortal.


    Yang Song also sensed the extreme weakness of his Essence Soul. It felt ossified, and his thought processes were running at a slower speed. His perceptivity had decreased drastically. If he was once said to be an elite in the Three Realms, he was now only mediocre.


    However, Yang Song did not care. He had prepared for so long, all for this day. He had succeeded.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads flew back to Yang Song who stored them away with a flip of his hand. The Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads could still be used another one time or so. Now that his strength had declined drastically, it could still be used to shock and awe some insignificant opponents.


    "Hahaha¡­" Wood Dragon Protector was also very excited. He stared at Nightmare Dragon''s corpse and, with a cloth sack in hand, he opened it. "Retrieve."


    Nightmare Dragon''s corpse, as well as his armaments and artifacts, were absorbed into the cloth sack.


    ¡­


    The battle had been too easy for Qin Yun. In the beginning, he only needed to use his Swords of Stellar Light to restrain the eighteen fiendish servants. After Frost Shark died, he pretty much became a spectator.


    Qin Yun collected his spoils of war just as Wood Dragon Protector was doing the same.


    Frost Shark''s body was in pieces. Many of his items had scattered everywhere. All Qin Yun could do was use the stellar forces that permeated fifteen hundred kilometers around him to sweep up all the items. The most important item was the Hundred Fiend Gonfalon.


    The Hundred Fiend Gonfalon was a supreme-grade Numinous treasure that could control the eighteen fiendish servants.


    "Whoosh." The Hundred Fiend Gonfalon was rapidly transported by the starlight into Qin Yun''s hands.


    Having lost its owner, the Hundred Fiend Gonfalon was easily refined by Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers. He temporarily gained control over it.


    Qin Yun felt somewhat excited seeing the eighteen fiendish servants standing in a daze in midair. "The Hundred Fiend Gonfalon is a supreme-grade Numinous treasure to begin with. In order to refine these eighteen fiendish servants, Frost Shark must have paid an even greater price. Unfortunately, these are fiendish servants¡­ Although they can be commanded, using my immortal Dharmic powers to control them would only result in weak attacks. It''s best to refine these eighteen fiendish servants again and transform them into eighteen Dao Soldiers."


    "However, the price of converting them is also rather hefty."


    "But regardless, this Hundred Fiend Gonfalon and eighteen fiendish servants¡­ are equivalent to about five to six supreme-grade Numinous treasures," thought Qin Yun.


    If he sold it to a Skyfiend, he could naturally fetch a price of ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures, or even more.


    However, to ''finance'' the enemy with such powerful treasures would only be met with contempt by many disciples in Green Touring Palace. Perhaps some cultivators would not care about their reputation, but it was beneath Qin Yun to do so. Such shameless acts were not in line with his Dao heart.


    One''s cultivation was not to violate one''s Dao heart. If left undisciplined, it would eventually turn into a mental demon. It could even destroy one''s cultivation path.


    "Whoosh¡­" The eighteen fiendish servants who had their intelligence wiped away flew over as Qin Yun controlled the Hundred Fiend Gonfalon. All of them flew into the Hundred Fiend Gonfalon.


    "There are other treasures."


    Frost Shark had a bangle which contained a storage space within that held many treasures. It was taken away by Qin Yun as well.


    Qin Yun also took the pair of supreme-grade Numinous treasure golden wheels.


    There were also some miscellaneous items Frost Shark had on him such as jade bottles, ropes, jade tokens, etc.


    "Whoosh."


    What looked like an ordinary white jade token flew into Qin Yun''s hand. The moment it entered his hand, it let out an abrupt, blinding light.


    Boom!


    The blinding but mild white light erupted from the jade token, becoming the most dazzling scene in midair.


    In the distance, a disheartened Kuishi, who was planning on returning, the weakened Yang Song, and the delighted Wood Dragon Protector all felt this ancient aura erupt. They could not help but turn their heads.


    They saw the jade token in Qin Yun''s hand emit a blinding white light. Within it appeared an ancient but massive mutated beast phantom. Its body was like a white lion''s, but it''s head was like a white bear''s. Its eyes were staring straight at Qin Yun.


    A faint Chaos aura emanated.


    The ancient mutated beast phantom hovered above the jade token and looked at Qin Yun.


    "This is¡­"


    Kuishi, Yang Song, and Wood Dragon Protector watched this scene in disbelief.

 508 Losing Decorum

    Chapter 508: Losing Decorum


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    As the jade token emitted a white radiance, the ancient mutated beast phantom looked down at Qin Yun. It said, "Receive my treasure and subsequently, my karma."


    With that said, the phantom plunged back into the jade token, dissipating the blinding white light.


    Qin Yun held the jade token in hand and felt information come surging into his mind.


    "So that''s how it is." Qin Yun was enlightened.


    In fact, when the phantom first appeared, Qin Yun had guessed what the jade token was. After all, he had read through numerous books from Jade Void Palace''s Myriad Dharma Repository. He learned many secrets and knew the story behind the jade token.


    "Lightning Beast Manor, White Jade Token?" Yang Song''s aura was weakened and he could not help but shake his head when he witnessed it. "This luck of his is really¡­ enviable!"


    "The White Jade Token left behind by that Chaos Lightning Beast?" Kuishi could not help but turn green with envy when she saw the scene play out before her eyes. "Although we fiends are unable to use the White Jade Token, we can still sell it for a high price."


    Sou!


    Kuishi did not hesitate to fly over at full speed.


    "Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token? How did Frost Shark get the White Jade Token?" Wood Dragon Protector was alarmed and, instantly, he was overcome with a flurry of emotions. He was the one that rushed to claim the Second Palatial Lord''s treasures in the split of the spoils of war. He never imagined that the Eldest Palatial Lord''s treasures were even more stunning! That was the White Jade Token! Countless immortals and Buddhas coveted it!


    Vexation, indignation, and regret gnashed his heart.


    "It should be mine! Mine!" Wood Dragon Protector roared inwardly.


    ¡­


    In midair, the distant Kuishi was rapidly approaching. Yang Song and Wood Dragon Protector also flew over to congregate after their victory.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and put away the jade token. He had no mood to do any further probes. Items carried by experts were typically treasures they thought highly of. Therefore, Qin Yun had checked the items he received one by one for rare treasures. He had planned on wearing the token but he never expected that the token which he thought was a Jade Heart Cleansing Token would produce a phenomenon the moment he made contact with it. It was the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token.


    Jade Heart Cleansing Tokens were also precious treasures, worth at least a supreme-grade Numinous treasures.


    However, the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token¡­ was relatively more precious. Even Qin Yun, with his status and strength, found it a hot potato.


    "Retrieve." Qin Yun did not continue checking the rest of the treasures, and instead, stored them all away.


    Kuishi was still rushing over when he looked in her direction.


    "Thankfully, she will take at least ten seconds to arrive," thought Qin Yun.


    Sou! Sou!


    Wood Dragon Protector did not suffer any loss in strength, so his speed was naturally faster. As for Yang Song, he flew at a much slower speed after being weakened.


    "Hahaha, Qin Yun. You sure have incredible luck! That White Jade Token will not conjure any phenomenon in the hands of fiends. That Frost Shark fool must have thought of it as an ordinary Heart Cleansing Token." As Wood Dragon Protector flew over, he said with a spirited laugh. "Speaking of which, I''m really envious."


    Qin Yun smiled without a word as he glanced far away. Yang Song was also flying over rapidly.


    When Wood Dragon Protector came close, he smiled. "Once Brother Yang is here, we can leave."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Boom!"


    Without any warning, the approaching Wood Dragon Protector suddenly lashed out with his wooden pole!


    The unadorned pole suddenly expanded, its might shattering the void. A sanguine light emitted from the tip of the pole, reaching a power far exceeding anything he showed in the battle against Nightmare Dragon.


    Clearly, in this attack, things were different. Wood Dragon Protector went all-out and was bent on delivering a fatal blow in one strike.


    He was close enough!


    Furthermore, Qin Yun had a very weak body. If he took even a second too long to react, he would lose his life.


    "I am ninety percent confident this strike of mine can destroy his protective divine power." Wood Dragon Protector''s eyes were filled with a ferocious glint.


    He was once a demon dragon, and had a bad reputation. He was riddled with sins, and was later subdued by a Buddhist mighty figure. In order to survive, he had no choice but to be a mount!


    He was never a willing party in his current lifestyle.


    "Whoosh." A blurry gray barrier of light appeared across Qin Yun''s body, like that of dark Chaos, but also looked like a hazy rain. Qin Yun looked at Wood Dragon Protector with an icy gaze.


    "Boom!!!"


    The terrifying pole struck the barrier that lined Qin Yun''s body.


    Rumble¡ª


    A discernible shockwave radiated in every direction.


    "Wood Dragon, what are you doing?" Yang Song could not help but bellow angrily when he saw this.


    Wood Dragon Protector glared at Qin Yun with pole in hand. "You were wary of me? I attacked you so suddenly at such a close distance, but you were able to cast your flying sword in time¡­ Clearly, you have kept your guard up around me all this while."


    The defense capability of Qin Yun''s flying sword¡­ was enough to defend against Kuishi, a half-step Ancestral Fiend.


    As long as Qin Yun was prepared, there was naturally no hope for Wood Dragon Protector to succeed.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun looked at Wood Dragon Protector and sneered. "Before we dealt with the two Palatial Lords of Frost Shark Palace, you looked at me with contempt. But now, after I received the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token, you suddenly turned pleasant. How could I dare lower my guard with you being so pleasant? I obviously have to be wary."


    Qin Yun was not the kind of cultivator that only focused on cultivation.


    When he was younger, he had experienced the fickleness of human nature. While traveling the world, he had been schemed upon in different ways. He knew how terrifying people could be.


    Now that he obtained the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token, he wouldn''t even fully trust his fellow disciples. So how could he trust Wood Dragon Protector who had only seen him as an eyesore?


    In the Three Realms, fellow disciples would engage in fratricide just for treasures, to the point of betraying their sects! Trusting someone absolutely was equivalent to leaving one''s life in another person''s hands.


    "Hmph, you truly are a perceptive one," said Wood Dragon Protector coldly. "During our assault on the two Frost Shark Palace Palatial Lords, you were only responsible for restrainment, while I was the one doing all the hard work. I should have at least half of this Frost Shark''s benefits."


    "The one who really did all the hard work was Brother Yang." Qin Yun scoffed. "Besides, you want me to split half the benefits of the White Jade Token with you? Dream on."


    Wood Dragon Protector turned even more furious.


    "Wood Dragon, you actually attacked your partner?" Yang Song roared angrily after flying over.


    "We were partners while dealing with the two Frost Shark Palace Palatial Lords. Since they have been killed, we are no longer partners," said Wood Dragon Protector coldly.


    "You demon dragon¡­" Yang Song was infuriated.


    They were partners in a joint assault, but for things to develop this far, this shamelessness truly enraged Yang Son.


    "Yang Song, it''s best you do not make a hooha now that you are weakened," said Wood Dragon Protector nonchalantly.


    Yang Song ground his teeth.


    "Brother Yang, although this demon dragon is part of the Buddhists, he has yet to change his bloodthirsty temperament. There is no need for us to bother with him." As Qin Yun spoke, he suddenly frowned and looked down. With a wave of his hand, 360 Swords of Stellar Light swooped downwards and struck the array formations below. Without the two Palatial Lords, Frost Shark Palace no longer had someone presiding over it. The array formations were easily cracked open.


    The moment the array formation cracked, stellar forces descended upon the area! The terrifying suppressive stellar forces instantly wiped out numerous Skyfiends.


    Very few survived, and they were pursued by the Swords of Stellar Light. As for the innocent ones, they were carried away by the stellar forces.


    "There are some innocents in Frost Shark Palace. Brother Yang, please rescue them," said Qin Yun. He was incapable of Major Void Transference.


    "Leave it to me." Yang Song nodded. "I will now dispel the array formation. It''s best that the both of you leave quickly. Kuishi is almost here."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Five array flags appeared around Yang Song. Portions of the array formation that spanned five thousand kilometers rapidly contracted.


    The barriers remained in the zone where Kuishi was.


    As for the zone where Qin Yun, Yang Song, and Wood Dragon Protector were, the array formation''s repression rapidly vanished.


    "Goodbye. We can meet again at the Jade Tripod Sect." Qin Yun said to Yang Song. As the blurry light descended, he vanished as he headed straight for Green Touring Palace.


    Wood Dragon Protector looked at Yang Song and scoffed. "If you had not let him leave, he would not have escaped so easily. Regardless, you should have forced something out of him."


    "I''m not as shameless as you," said Yang Song. "Leave quickly. I''ll watch the rear. Although you are shameless, I was still the one who invited the two of you. I will see you safely off."


    "Hmph!"


    Wood Dragon Protector looked at Yang Song. "You are really dumb. Dumb to destroy your future for a dead woman. I can''t be bothered to say anything further."


    Hua!


    As a blurry yellow light descended and enveloped Wood Dragon Protector, he similarly vanished.


    "Dumb?" Yang Song felt a little lost. All these years, he had been preparing for this day to exact vengeance, but now that he had avenged his lost love, he felt a little lost despite the relief of having the heavy weight on his chest lifted.


    Yang Song shook his head gently.


    With a step, he cast Major Void Transference and entered Frost Shark Palace to save the pitiful people inside.

 509 Word Spreads

    Chapter 509: Word Spreads


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The helpless bystanders in Frost Shark Palace were extremely grateful. A small minority of them were mortals, while the rest were at the Essence Soul realm. There were even some imprisoned Skyimmortals. Until now, they had lived aggrieved existences, with the lucky ones made musicians or dancers. The truly unfortunate ones were reared for meat. Now with the sudden appearance of Yang Song, all of them were excited as they shouted, "Greetings, Exalted Immortal."


    "Let''s go." Yang Song immediately stored away the five array flags. At the instant he stored them away, Yang Song vanished along with the group of innocents via Major Void Transference.


    And far away, Kuishi felt the disappearance of the restraining force. When she took in the scene below her, she found that the frosty land was in a wretched state. Frost Shark Palace was in shambles, with its fiends all dead. Worst of all, there was the two most important Frost Shark Palace Palatial Lords. One of them was left without a body, while the other''s corpse was taken away by Wood Dragon Protector.


    "Darn it." Kuishi was somewhat infuriated. She was constantly repressed by the Five Directions Azure Fire Flags and was unable to cast Major Void Transference. By the time she arrived, the trio had escaped.


    "Those two idiots from Frost Shark Palace. They couldn''t even last a minute. If they managed to last a little longer, I would have easily rescued them." Kuishi was fuming inwardly. "Most stupid of all is that they did not recognize the White Jade Token they obtained. Now that Qin Yun gets to benefit from it for nothing!"


    Burning with anger, Kuishi flicked her sleeve and returned to the Tenebrous Fiend world with Major Void Transference.


    ¡­


    In Green Touring Palace, Qin Yun immediately rushed for his residence the moment he arrived.


    And on the way, many senior brothers and sisters greeted him very politely.


    "Junior Brother Qin."


    "Junior Brother Qin, when will you come to my cave abode to ponder over the Dao of Yin-Yang?"


    There were too many Green Touring Palace disciples, so naturally there were all sorts of characters. Many female disciples used their bodies to attract a bunch of senior brothers and junior brothers. With this small army of men helping them in their times of need, they could thrive in the Three Realms. Qin Yun was strong and had extremely high potential. He was naturally the target of many female disciples.


    Qin Yun exchanged brief pleasantries with them, all the while quickly returning to his residence.


    In his chamber.


    Qin Yun did a simple check through the other treasures Frost Shark had. There was nothing that surprised him.


    "I cannot be too greedy. I''m already lucky enough to get a White Jade Token." Qin Yun flipped his hand and produced the White Jade Token. "After obtaining Chaos Lightning Beast Bai Xiao''s treasure, I really owe a huge amount of karma."


    "As for returning it? That is for when I''m at peak Golden Immortal strength. How many Golden Immortals in the Three Realms have that strength?"


    Lightning Beast Bai Xiao was one of the Chaos Godfiends that existed before Pangu split the heavens and earth apart.


    In fact, before the Three Realms were born, the hazy Chaos gave birth to a large number of Chaos Godfiends. For example, Goddess N¨¹wa, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, Ancestral Dragon, Gonggong, Zhurong, Torch Dragon, Phoenix, Goddess Houtu, Wood God Gou Mang, etc.


    Of course, existences such as Goddess N¨¹wa, Ancestral Dragon, and Zhurong were especially powerful ones. The moment they were born, they possessed peak Golden Immortal strength. The Ancestral Dragon''s bloodline was so powerful that it began the lineage of the dragons. As for Zhurong, Gonggong, Goddess Houtu, their descendants were likewise very impressive.


    There were a bunch of relatively ordinary Chaos Godfiends. Although they were born with divine powers, most of them were at the level of the nine sons of the Ancestral Dragon or at the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm!


    However, since the era of Chaos, too much time had passed. They had experienced numerous calamities.


    After all these calamities, many of the Chaos Godfiends had perished. The lucky ones were received when they reincarnated, becoming part of the demons or humans. The number of Chaos Godfiends that survived the passage of time were extremely small in number.


    "Chaos Lightning Beast Bai Xiao wasn''t considered strong. He only had strength at the half-step Golden Immortal. Back when the Daoists and Buddhists joined forces to deal with the fiends, the flames of war spread throughout the Three Realms. Chaos Lightning Beast Bai Xiao perished in battle under the hands of an Ancestral Fiend." Qin Yun held the White Jade Token in hand. "His cave abode, the Lightning Beast Manor, stores the treasures he had collected over the ages. The most precious item among his collection is that Heaven Earth Spirit Root, the Lightning Fruit Tree."


    There were few things in the Three Realms that were deemed Heaven Earth Spirit Roots. The most famous one was the Immortal Peach Tree.


    The Immortal Peach garden in the Heavenly Courts had a total of 3600 Immortal Peach Trees. Every time Queen Mother hosted a Immortal Peach Banquet¡­ the Heavenly Courts would invite mighty figures from all across the Three Realms to attend it. Those invited were those with rather high standing in the Three Realms.


    Also, there was the Ginseng Fruit Tree, the Yellowed Pear Tree, etc. These Connate Fruit Trees were born out of the Chaos. Either they were snatched by the Connate Godfiends during the Chaos era, or they were snatched after the heaven and earth were split apart.


    When Chaos Lightning Fruit Beast Bai Xiao was born, a fruit tree was born beside him. It was the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree.


    He naturally took it away secretly and planted it in his cave abode.


    "With the White Jade Token, I can only enter the Lightning Beast Manor. It does not mean I''m able to occupy the entire Lightning Beast Manor," thought Qin Yun. "However, the last time the White Jade Token appeared was more than two hundred thousand years ago. If my math is right, the Lightning Fruit Tree should have its Lightning fruits ripen thrice. Every time, there will be nine Lightning Fruits¡­ So there will be a total of twenty-seven Lightning Fruits."


    "The White Jade Token is safest in Green Touring Palace! No one will dare attempt to steal it from Green Touring Palace." Qin Yun was really afraid that if he were to take the White Jade Token out with him, mighty figures might even attack him for it.


    "How should I use this White Jade Token to benefit me the most?" Qin Yun began pondering.


    ¡­


    As Qin Yun began considering how to best use the White Jade Token, the news that he had obtained it was already spreading.


    "Brother." Kuishi sat there eating grapes as she said, "There was nothing I could do either. That Yang Song was mad. He used a specially prepared Six-Six Black Blood Flying Spearheads and even burned his Essence Soul to push his strength to its limits! Frost Shark and his brother died too quickly. I rushed over at full speed, but was ultimately too slow."


    "He burned his Essence Soul?" Fiend Supremacy frowned.


    "Yes, and there''s something else." Kuishi felt a little aggrieved. "When General Frost Shark died, he left behind a jade token which Qin Yun received. It suddenly produced a phenomena, and that jade token happened to be the White Jade Token of that Chaos Lightning Beast."


    "White Jade Token?" Fiend Supremacy found it unbelievable. "It''s in Qin Yun''s hands?"


    "Yes." Kuishi nodded.


    "The implication of the White Jade Token is no trivial matter. I will report the matter to the higher-ups." Fiend Supremacy frowned slightly. "With Qin Yun obtaining the White Jade Token, it''s like giving wings to a tiger. He will only become harder to deal with."


    ¡­


    "What? That Qin Yun obtained the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token?" Bear Mountain was holding a wine cup as his eyes went wide.


    "The news is spreading in Green Touring Palace. Many fellow disciples are trying to meet him. It has even spread to Eight Scenic Palace and Jade Void Palace. I heard that he obtained the White Jade Token by joining Jade Void Palace''s Immortal Yang Song and Buddhism''s Wood Dragon Protector in an attack on the two brothers from Frost Shark Palace," said a white wolf demon beside him.


    "Why don''t such good things fall into my lap?" Bear Mountain could not accept what was happening.


    "Sigh. We can only envy him." The white wolf demon shook his head.


    ¡­


    Indeed, news quickly spread in Eight Scenic Palace, Jade Void Palace, and Green Touring Palace.


    Almost every spot in Green Touring Palace had disciples discussing the matter.


    "Now that Junior Brother Qin has obtained the White Jade Token, the fruits that the Lightning Fruit Tree in Lightning Beast Manor bears are things even mighty figures would want."


    "Those Lightning Fruits are also known as Nine-leafed Lightning Fruits. They produce one leaf every nine thousand years. Once all nine leaves sprout, the fruit is said to be ripe. 81000 years to have nine of them. An ordinary Skyimmortal would have their body transform into a body of lightning after eating one. Their strength would increase tremendously. If they consumed two, they would be able to control the might of the divine lightning, gaining the typical strength of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal. Of course, those who cultivate in the Lightning Dharma will benefit greatly from consuming that."


    "A rare treasure. Truly rare."


    "The last time the White Jade Token appeared was more than two hundred thousand years ago. That means there are twenty-seven ripe fruits now inside Lightning Beast Manor."


    As these Green Touring Palace disciples spoke, all of them were moved.


    Unfortunately, most of the Green Touring Palace disciples could only think about such treasures with envy.


    "White Jade Token?"


    Far away, Sa Xu, who was playing chess, heard the discussion. His eyes could not help but light up.


    He created the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma himself and had been stuck at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. Although he had the strength of a mighty figure, he had not been able to become a Golden Immortal.


    "Lightning Fruit? I might try for it." Sa Xu thought to himself.


    ¡­


    Word kept spreading as more and more people learned of the news. An increasing amount of experts in the Three Realms had their attention on Qin Yun. The Lightning Dharma was the leader of the myriad Dharma. Many people in the Three Realms cultivated in the Lightning Dharma; therefore, the Lightning Fruits were especially attractive to those who cultivated in the Lightning Dharma.

 510 Exchange

    Chapter 510: Exchange


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    There were more than ten disciples gathered outside Qin Yun''s compound in Green Touring Palace. These disciples were some of the best in Green Touring Palace. Even the weakest was at Demon King Bear Mountain''s strength. After all, there was no way one could approach Qin Yun regarding the White Jade Token without sufficient treasure; if they did, they would only asking for a rebuff.


    "Creak." The door opened as Qin Yun walked out and took a look outside.


    They were either Great Demon Kings, Heavenly Courts officials, or powerful immortals. There were three with strength at the half-step Golden Immortal realm.


    "Greetings, Senior Brothers and Sisters." Qin Yun cupped his hands and bowed.


    "Junior Brother Qin." The group of Green Touring Palace demons and humans smiled at Qin Yun. For many of them, this was their first time meeting him.


    "Junior Brother Qin, we heard that you obtained the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token." A fox immortal dressed in a beautiful gown smiled coquettishly at Qin Yun with a gorgeous charm. "We came here to ask. A total of six cultivators can enter with this White Jade Token. Junior Brother Qin¡­ how do you plan on allocating the six spots?"


    The others looked at Qin Yun too, unperturbed.


    After all, all of them were of high stature. They were able to maintain their composure.


    "I, Qin Yun, take up a spot myself. Naturally, the other five spots will be sold," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    The ten plus humans and demons around him nodded slightly when they heard that.


    Thankfully¡­


    He did not plan on monopolizing it!


    "Junior Brother Qin, might I know what sort of price is required before you would sell the spot to us?" asked a Skydragon with a face full of red scales.


    Qin Yun swept his gaze and smiled. "Senior Brothers and Sisters, since all of you are here, I will make it clear. I presently require Connate Wonders! In order to get a White Jade Token spot, only an offer of a Connate Wonder will be accepted. As long as the Connate Wonder you produce satisfies me, you will win a spot."


    "Connate Wonder?" Everyone present had a change in expression.


    "A spot can''t be worth several Connate Wonders," said the fox demoness senior sister with a frown.


    "Your offer just needs to match relatively," said Qin Yun with a faint smile.


    The humans and demons exchanged looks. Connate Wonders? Most of them did not have one!


    ¡­


    "What? A Connate Wonder is needed for the exchange?"


    "This Junior Brother Qin has quite a massive appetite!"


    "If there''s a willing buyer and seller, what has this got to do with you?"


    "When it''s something mutual, all I can do is be envious. Envious of Junior Brother Qin."


    "I also wish to obtain a spot to enter the Lightning Beast Manor. Unfortunately, I do not have that chance. I have heard of Connate Wonders, but I have never seen one."


    "Even if Junior Brother Qin was willing to take supreme-grade Numinous treasures in exchange for a White Jade Token spot, one spot would be worth at least ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures! Who among you can afford that?"


    "Not me."


    "I don''t even have one supreme-grade Numinous treasure."


    Many disciples in Green Touring Palace sighed regretfully. To most of the disciples that were still bottlenecked at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm, how was it possible to produce ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures? Even most ninth firmament Skyimmortals were incapable of doing so.


    While the disciples engaged in a flurry of discussion, a figure stood in the distance silently. It was none other than Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "White Jade Token?" Ancestral Master Zhang frowned slightly. "That Connate Spirit Fruit, Lightning Fruit, would be very useful to my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. Unfortunately¡­ I can''t afford the price of the White Jade Token spot."


    Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head gently and turned to leave.


    ******


    In Qin Yun''s compound in Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun sat alone drinking as he waited for a distinguished guest.


    "Many people in the Three Realms will definitely want the chance to enter the Lightning Beast Manor. It definitely won''t be difficult to use this opportunity to exchange for Connate Wonders." Qin Yun was very confident.


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    There was a series of knocks on the door.


    "That fast?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished as he got up and went over. He opened the door to see a white-robed man standing outside.


    "Senior Brother Sa." Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. "Senior Brother Sa, please come in."


    Sa Xu chuckled before walking in. He did not sit and instead turned to look at Qin Yun. "There are six spots and I have the Water of the First Essence. I want a spot. Can the Water of the First Essence be used for the exchange?"


    "Yes," said Qin Yun immediately. "Senior Brother Sa, we previously agreed upon ten drops of Water of the First Essence¡­ You have given me three drops previously, so I can still exchange another seven drops with you. How about exchanging a spot for seven drops of Water of the First Essence?"


    Sa Xu shook his head gently.


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "Don''t worry. I won''t be taking advantage of you," said Sa Xu indifferently. He was a proud person, so how could he take advantage of Qin Yun?


    "You can''t call that taking advantage," replied Qin Yun.


    "According to what I know, there is one Connate Lightning Fruit Tree in the Lightning Beast Manor. In eighty-one thousand years, nine fruits will ripen. If six people were to enter and undergo the Chaos Lightning Beast''s test, each person will get at least one fruit, and at most four," said Sa Xu.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Yes, the opportunity left behind by Bai Xiao was meant to tie people to karma after benefiting from him¡­ In the future, they are to kill enemies to avenge him. Therefore, among the six who enter, whoever has the highest chance of avenging him will receive relatively more fruits, but even so, everyone would get at least one fruit. However, it has been more than two hundred thousand years since the White Jade Token has last appeared. The Lightning Fruit Tree has ripened thrice, so there are twenty-seven fruits."


    "Yes, it has ripened three times. With six people entering, each person will obtain at least three fruits. And it''s even possible for someone to get more than ten," said Sa Xu calmly. "If it''s an ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal, using seven drops of Water of the First Essence to exchange for a spot with you would be considered normal, but for me¡­ it''s not that I''m arrogant. But I will obtain far more than three fruits in the Lightning Beast Manor. It''s even possible for me to obtain ten."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Senior Brother Sa Xu had created the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma himself. His strength was equivalent to a Golden Immortal mighty figure. It was likely that the Chaos Lightning Beast''s test would ultimately allocate him with the most number of fruits.


    The chances of Sa Xu avenging the Chaos Lightning Beast were naturally much higher than the typical ninth firmament Skyimmortal.


    "Here are fifteen drops of Water of the First Essence." Sa Xu threw a jade bottle to Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Qin Yun did not press the issue. He knew Sa Xu''s character. He was a proud individual and many fellow disciples in the Green Touring Palace did not even dare speak to him.


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out the White Jade Token.


    "Whoosh." With a flick of his finger, Sa Xu infused a wisp of Dharmic powers into the White Jade Token.


    "When do we set off?" Sa Xu asked.


    "I believe it will be soon. Within a year," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." Sa Xu nodded before turning to leave. Qin Yun sent him to the door.


    From afar, the Green Touring Palace disciples began murmuring in discussion when they saw this.


    ******


    Effulgent Great World. Jade Tripod Sect.


    One of Qin Yun''s avatars had long returned to accompany his wife. She had been worried the whole time about his assault on the two Frost Shark Palace brothers.


    Inside the hall.


    "Congratulations Sword Immortal Qin!" Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector came to congratulate Qin Yun.


    "You sure are well-informed," said Qin Yun with a smile. He of course knew that the matter regarding the White Jade Token would quickly be known by Sect Master Jade Tripod and company. But he never expected that they would come to congratulate him in less than two hours after he obtained the White Jade Token. The speed at which news spread was indeed fast.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, news of you obtaining the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token has already begun spreading among my Primordial Beginning lineage. We just learned of it," said Sect Master Jade Tripod with a laugh. "We rushed here immediately."


    As Sect Master Jade Tripod was about to continue, he sensed something. He immediately said, "Uncle-Master Fiercefire is here."


    "Uncle-Master Fiercefire? Sword Immortal Qin, we have to leave to receive our uncle-master," said the Dao Protector.


    "Go ahead."


    "Okay."


    The two nodded and rapidly flew out of Qin Yun''s cave abode. They flew towards the periphery of the sect''s array formation to receive their uncle-master.


    "Brother Yun, do we need to go as well?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "There''s no need. We aren''t from the Primordial Beginning lineage. It''s best we do not involve ourselves in matters regarding their Primordial Beginning lineage."


    Yi Xiao nodded but could not help but say, "He comes right after you obtained the White Jade Token. Would he¡­"


    "I will adopt the necessary measures depending on the situation," said Qin Yun.


    "Although Daoist Fiercefire is a ninth firmament Skyimmortal, he is extremely powerful among the third generation Jade Void Palace disciples. With his great divine power, he can match the level of a mighty figure." Yi Xiao was somewhat worried.


    "Don''t worry," said Qin Yun.


    And elsewhere.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector warmly welcomed Fiercefire.


    "Greetings, Uncle-Master Fiercefire." Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were even more polite than when they met Yang Song. After all, Fiercefire''s strength matched that of a Golden Immortal! He was of much higher standing.


    "Okay." Fiercefire had disheveled hair and he wore a golden band around his head. "Is that Qin Yun here?"


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were slightly taken aback.


    "Uncle-Master Fiercefire, Sword Immortal Qin is indeed temporarily taking up residence in my Jade Tripod Sect. However, he only has an avatar here," said Sect Master Jade Tripod respectfully.


    "That''s good. Lead the way," instructed Fiercefire.


    "Yes." The duo reverently led the way.


    Once they flew close, Qin Yun saw them from afar and exhorted his wife, "Don''t come over for now. I''ll deal with it."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded.


    Qin Yun came to the entrance of the cave abode. Soon, three figures descended from the sky. In the middle of the trio was Fiercefire.


    "Greetings Immortal Fiercefire, I''m Qin Yun." Qin Yun bowed slightly and was rather polite.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you sure have good luck." A smile suffused Fiercefire''s mouth. "Let''s go. We can talk inside."


    "Immortal Fiercefire, please."


    Soon, they entered and sat down. Attendants served some immortal brew.


    Fiercefire leisurely sipped a mouthful of wine and waited for the attendants to leave before saying, "I heard that you obtained the Lightning Beast Manor''s White Jade Token?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    "There''s no need for you to sell the spots on this White Jade Token any longer. Just give the token to me," said Fiercefire indifferently.


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were astounded.


    Qin Yun looked at him as well.


    "Name your conditions! However, do not try to go overboard." Fiercefire looked coldly at Qin Yun in the eye as he continued drinking the wine. "Think about it carefully before answering me."

 511 Daoist Fiercefire and Qin Yun

    Chapter 511: Daoist Fiercefire and Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector stood to the side, not daring to utter a single word. They looked at Qin Yun with pitying eyes.


    Fiercefire was in no hurry as he took a long glance at Qin Yun and continued drinking the alcohol casually.


    "Fiends are evil and crazed in the way they handle things, but not all so-called esteemed immortals are gentlemen," thought Qin Yun. He learned this very well a long time ago. Before the fiends rose in importance, the ancient demons'' Heavenly Courts were destroyed in war, there was the battle of the three main Daoist schools of thought¡­ All of these battles resembled pandemonium. Many sinister and underhanded means were used. Using strength to repress others was not even considered sinister. It could only be described as being domineering.


    The strength of a mighty figure could be used for anything!


    He was forcing a Skyimmortal to hand over a treasure that caught his eye. He even said: "Name your conditions! However, do not try to go overboard." This was already rather benevolent! It was much better than the way the fiends acted.


    If he dared resist?


    Even if he did not snatch it openly, he could find a random excuse to justify violence. "Puny Skyimmortal, how dare you offend me!" A simple line like that could send him to his death!


    He could kill as he wished!


    Over the long passage of time, many Daoists and Buddhists had perished. The Dao Ancestors rarely intervened when the disciples of their three schools fought each other.


    In the Three Realms¡­


    Strength was ultimately what mattered! If one was strong, the Heavenly Courts'' Jade Emperor and Queen Mother would treat them with respect. The weaklings were only ants in the vast Three Realms.


    This principle was easy to understand, but Qin Yun felt aggrieved when he was on the receiving end of such treatment.


    "Immortal Fiercefire." Qin Yun finally spoke.


    "Oh? Have you thought it through?" Fiercefire looked at Qin Yun. From the side, Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector took in everything silently.


    "Immortal Fiercefire, so you need the White Jade Token when you do not cultivate in the Lightning Dharma?" asked Qin Yun.


    "That is none of your business. Name your conditions and hand over the White Jade Token," Fiercefire said impatiently.


    Qin Yun thought to himself, "He doesn''t cultivate the Lightning Dharma, but he still wants to forcibly take the White Jade Token for himself! He probably wants to use it to exchange for other benefits. By buying it from me at a relatively low price, he can then sell it to those who cultivate in the Lightning Dharma at a high price. Most of the gods in the Heavenly Courts'' Lightning Division cultivate in the Lightning Dharma. There is definitely no need to fear a lack of buyers for the White Jade Token''s spots."


    "Immortal Fiercefire," said Qin Yun. "It''s not that I''m unwilling to sell it to you. It''s just that I have already sold three of the White Jade Token''s spots."


    "You have sold three?" Fiercefire glared as he bellowed, "Are you trying to pull a fast one on me? You just obtained the White Jade Token and you have already sold half the spots? Do you think I''ll believe you?"


    In fact, he had only sold one spot! It was to Sa Xu.


    "I''ve really sold it." Qin Yun gave an earnest look.


    "Hmph, news has only just spread. To exchange for more treasures, one should wait. If you wait till more immortals come to you to purchase the spots, you can compare the offered conditions and choose the best. That''s expected." Fiercefire looked coldly at Qin Yun. "And now, you are telling me you have sold three spots in such a short period of time?"


    "I''m not a greedy person," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Fine." Fiercefire said indifferently. "Since you say you have sold three White Jade Token spots, I''ll believe you for now. But if I were to discover that you are lying. Hmph¡­"


    "I naturally wouldn''t dare lie to you," said Qin Yun.


    Fiercefire continued, "Then give me the White Jade Token! I''ll bring along the other three Green Touring Palace disciples with me into the Lightning Beast Manor when the time comes. As for the remaining three spots, name your conditions."


    Qin Yun frowned slightly, but he said, "I require Connate Wonders of the Wood, Fire, and Earth elements. A total of three Connate Wonders. It''s fine if each Connate Wonder''s price is that of ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures."


    "Hmph!"


    Fiercefire grunted furiously. "You really dare raise such conditions!? And three Connate Wonders at that? I will give you one Connate Wonder and a supreme-grade Fire Dragon Barrier Numinous treasure. Although this Fire Dragon Barrier is inferior to the Connate Numinous treasure, the Nine Dragon Divine Fire Barrier, it''s still rather powerful. The offer I make is quite good. Punk, don''t be too greedy."


    Qin Yun was secretly fuming when he heard that.


    The conditions he raised were considered ordinary. He did not lose out too much from them.


    But Fiercefire was not even offering to meet half his conditions?


    "In that case, I''m willing to give one spot to you, Immortal Fiercefire," said Qin Yun with a smile. "There are just too many senior brothers and sisters that want the remaining spots. Immortal Fiercefire, I hope for your understanding."


    If he could put up with the overbearing attitude, he would do so.


    "Giving it to me?" Fiercefire smirked. "Are you hoping I will owe you karma?"


    "I''m giving it to you of my own accord," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It''s just a gift."


    "I''ve already said that the White Jade Token is to be given to me!" Fiercefire''s expression turned cold as he looked at Qin Yun. "Why? Do you not understand what I''m saying? Or is it that you have not sold a single of the White Jade Token''s spot? Are you just trying to fool me?"


    Qin Yun finally understood what was happening.


    He was not satisfied with a single spot.


    Then there was nothing he could do for it.


    "Immortal Fiercefire, it looks like you are trying to bully the weak with your strength and trying to steal it from me forcibly?" said Qin Yun softly.


    "Did you just say I''m trying to steal if from you forcibly?" Fiercefire''s expression turned grim.


    By the side, the hearts of Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector were palpitating from the conversation.


    "Gentlemen, gentlemen, negotiation is always possible," said Sect Master Jade Tripod immediately.


    "Now that immortals from all over the Three Realms know I have obtained the White Jade Token," said Qin Yun with a sneer, "now when the news has only just spread; here you are trying to snatch it from me forcibly. Why? Do you have the guts to do it, but lack the guts to admit it?"


    Fiercefire''s face flushed red. His eyes suffused a murderous glint. "Well done. To think you are trying to bully me. If your true body was here, I would have smacked you to death for that!"


    "I would not dare bully you, Immortal Fiercefire. I believe the various fellow Daoists of the Three Realms will know who''s the one doing the bullying," said Qin Yun.


    If his true body was there¡­


    Qin Yun would really have to bear with the injustice!


    If it wasn''t an avatar, Fiercefire could truly be shameless enough to kill him. That would be tragic.


    Fortunately, there was only an avatar here! Qin Yun was naturally unafraid.


    As for his family? His wife and children?


    Fiercefire was a third-generation Jade Void Palace disciple after all. It would have been fine if he found a reason to attack Qin Yun, but to attack his weak family because he could do nothing to Qin Yun? He would become the laughing stock of the Three Realms!


    "Good, very good." Fiercefire stood up. "You are gutsy."


    "I''m only an ordinary Green Touring Palace disciple. I''m in no way comparable to you, Daoist Fiercefire," said Qin Yun.


    "Uncle-Master Yang is here," said Sect Master Jade Tripod suddenly.


    Qin Yun and Fiercefire turned their heads over.


    Yang Song entered the cave abode and from afar, he said with a laugh, "Brother Qin Yun, news of you obtaining the White Jade Token has already spread in the Three Realms."


    Qin Yun also stood up to welcome him. He was rather impressed by Yang Song. "Brother Yang, have you taken care of things for those innocents?"


    "Uncle-Master Yang." Sect Master Jade Tripod and the Dao Protector also came to welcome him.


    "Yes. I came after I settled them in. They are a bunch of pitiful people," said Yang Song with a smile. When he saw Fiercefire, he could not help but say, "Senior Brother Fiercefire, you are here too?"


    Only then did Fiercefire walk over. He looked at Yang Song coldly and grunted, "How dumb of you to destroy your future!"


    "I''m inferior to you, Senior Brother. There was never hope of me becoming a Golden Immortal. It''s not really considered destroying my future," said Yang Song.


    "Hmph!"


    Fiercefire flicked his sleeve and immediately streaked across the sky in the form of a fiery beam before vanishing into the horizon.


    "Why is Senior Brother Fiercefire in such a bad mood?" Yang Song was alarmed.


    "He had a falling out with Sword Immortal Qin," said Sect Master Jade Tripod.


    "I offered to give him a White Jade Token spot for free, but he was unsatisfied, and was insistent on taking them all. Then, I''m not giving him a single spot," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "I can''t satisfy his voracious appetite."


    "Oh?" Yang Song nodded slightly. "It does match Fiercefire''s temperament and the way he does things. He has a hot temper and is somewhat overbearing in his dealings. He often acquaints himself with Golden Immortal mighty figures! He naturally thinks nothing of you, Qin Yun. However, you have to be careful now that you have stubbed your foot. He might one day find a reason to kill you."


    Qin Yun said with a smile, "Don''t worry. My true body is in Green Touring Palace. He can''t do a thing to me for the time being. However, Brother Yang, Daoist Fiercefire is your senior brother after all. By saying this about him¡­"


    "So what if I criticize him? He can be ruthless towards you, but can he do a thing to me? I''m his junior brother!" Yang Song thought nothing of the matter.


    ¡­


    His avatar drank with Yang Song in Jade Tripod Sect. Their personalities matched rather well.


    As for inside Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun was also slowly trading away the White Jade Token spots! He wished to use this opportunity to gather enough Connate Wonders to mix with the Chaos Pure Gold, so that he could nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the Connate Numinous treasure level. With a sword of that level, he would even have the confidence to fight Fiercefire head on.

 512 Five Elemental Connate Wonders

    Chapter 512: Five Elemental Connate Wonders


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the Heavenly realm, the broadest realm of the Three Realms, one much bigger than the Effulgent Great World.


    The Heavenly Courts and the Western Mt. Numinous were located here. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, along with the stellar forces, were extremely rich. There were numerous people that cultivated to become immortals and Bodhisattvas here. High above Mt. Azure Yang was an immortal abode.


    "Sou!"


    Fiercefire appeared out of thin air above the cave abode. Following that, he descended.


    Many of his disciples inside the immortal abode immediately greeted him respectfully when they saw him. "Master."


    "Master." A purple-robed youth came forward with a smile.


    "Hmph!"


    Fiercefire harrumphed coldly as he flicked his sleeve and walked straight in.


    It left all the disciples stunned. The purple-robed youth frowned slightly before following Fiercefire into the hall.


    "Master, judging from your angry mood, did that Qin Yun not know any better?" asked the purple-robed youth immediately.


    "How dare a mere Green Touring Palace disciple insult me?" Fiercefire said, peeved. "There are too many demons in the Green Touring Palace. These human disciples have turned arrogant and ignorant after mixing with these demons for prolonged periods of time."


    "What gave him the guts to defy you?" asked the purple-robed youth in astonishment.


    "His true body is hiding in Green Touring Palace," said Fiercefire with a sneer. "With only a mere avatar facing me, he naturally showed no fear. I want to see how long he can stay inside Green Touring Palace!"


    Just lowering himself to offer treasures and purchase the token was giving Qin Yun face.


    Yet, Qin Yun had failed to appreciate his kindness¡­


    Fiercefire was naturally annoyed!


    It would be expected for an expert that was his equal to reject him. However, he was naturally furious that a junior who he could easily squash to death would dare defy him.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was well aware that he had angered Fiercefire; therefore, he was thinking of means to quickly improve himself.


    "Extreme Wind Fire Lava. Three taels."


    "That''s too little. To get one spot on the White Jade Token, you need at least six taels of Extreme Wind Fire Lava."


    "Junior Brother Qin, this Extreme Wind Fire Lava only existed before the Primordial Chaos. There''s very little of it. Three taels is quite a lot," said a black-bearded elder immediately. "Besides, you mentioned that a senior brother with the strength of a Golden Immortal mighty figure has obtained a spot. With that senior brother present, I would probably only obtain three Lightning Fruits if I were to enter."


    "Senior Brother Xiahou, don''t look down upon yourself. After all, you have the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. Besides, Lightning Beast Manor''s test is not purely about one''s strength. Who knows, but you might obtain five to six Lightning Fruits," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Also, Lightning Beast Manor has other treasures apart from the Lightning Fruits."


    "In that case, four taels!" The elder felt the pinch as he extended four fingers. "Is that enough now?"


    Qin Yun shook his head. "Six taels!"


    "You are being too¡­" The elder turned anxious.


    "Senior Brother Xiahou, if you agree now, you will get the spot immediately. It''s only the second day after all. In another two or three days, all my spots might be sold out. By then, I can''t do a thing even if you change your mind," said Qin Yun.


    "You have to concede a little too, right?" said the bearded elder. "You should know how precious the Extreme Wind Fire Lava is. I only obtained it luckily after slaying a half-step Ancestral Fiend with a good friend in that massive battle in the past. It wouldn''t be easy to find such Extreme Wind Fire Lava elsewhere."


    Qin Yun pondered for a moment.


    Extreme Wind Fire Lava¡­


    Even one drop was enough to form a tiny sun. Ordinary fifth or sixth firmament Skyimmortals would burn to death simply from touching it.


    "I will compromise as well. Five taels," said Qin Yun. "I can''t go any lower."


    The elder gave Qin Yun a conflicted look before he smiled. "Junior Brother Qin, alright, I give up. We shall agree on that! Ever since that Chaos Lightning Beast died, it''s just too difficult to find a single Connate Lightning Fruit."


    "Alright, we shall agree upon it then," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "We will be heading to Lightning Beast Manor soon, right? It won''t take too long?" asked the bearded elder.


    "Don''t worry. We will set off within a year."


    ¡­


    On the first day he obtained the White Jade Token, Qin Yun received fifteen drops of Water of the First Essence from Senior Brother Sa.


    On the second day, he obtained five taels of the fire-elemental Connate Wonder, Extreme Wind Fire Lava.


    On the eighth day, Qin Yun obtained ten drops of the wood-elemental Connate Wonder, Water of the Wood Essence. Although they were in the form of droplets, they were actually wood elemental in nature! These drops of Water of the Wood Essence¡­ were monopolized by the Connate God, Wood God Gou Mang. All the Water of the Wood Essence in the Three Realms came from him. Just one drop was filled with overwhelming vital vibrancy. It could counteract decay miraculously. Even if a Heaven Earth Spirit Root was heavily damaged, just some Water of the Wood Essence would be sufficient to regrow it.


    Now, all that was left was for the Earth-elemental Connate Wonder¡­


    But it was also the hardest to find.


    In fact, Connate Wonders were very rare. With four elements gathered, the fifth type naturally became harder.


    Furthermore, the Green Touring Palace disciples who yearned for a White Jade Token spot were ultimately the ones who cultivated in the Lightning Dharma. Those who were willing to trade would have done so in the first few days. Over time, it meant that none of the Green Touring Palace disciples had it on hand. They were also thinking of means to gather wood-elemental Connate Wonders.


    In the vast Three Realms, it was rare to encounter mighty figures that cultivated Earth-elemental Dharmic formulations! The number of Connate Wonders of this element amounted to a handful. There was very few of them.


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, half a month had passed.


    Inside a chamber within Green Touring Palace, Qin Yun sat cross-legged.


    The Misty Rain Sword floated above a pile of Chaos Pure Gold, Water of the First Essence, Extreme Wind Fire Lava, and Water of the Wood Essence.


    Now, the Chaos Pure Gold was even smaller than when Qin Yun first obtained it in the Star Cluster Hall. Compared to then, there was only about thirty percent left! Seventy percent of the Chaos Pure Gold had been absorbed. Clearly, with the other Connate Wonders helping, the Misty Rain Sword was able to take in more.


    Hum!


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword finally stopped its absorption.


    With a beckon, the Intrinsic Flying Sword flew into Qin Yun''s palm. The tiny flying sword now appeared like a hazy, misty rain, but its blade had a terrifying sharpness to it.


    "I can sense that my Intrinsic Flying Sword has already reached a particular realm limit. It''s not far from breaking through to the level of a Connate Numinous treasure. However, it''s just short of something. It temporarily isn''t able to absorb any more of these four Connate Wonders." Qin Yun looked at the Connate Wonders.


    "There is thirty percent of the Chaos Pure Gold left. It''s only because nurturing my Intrinsic Flying Sword is a heavy expenditure, far greater than the rest combined," thought Qin Yun. The thing the Intrinsic Flying Sword expended most was the Chaos Pure Gold.


    "The second highest expenditure is the Water of the First Essence. Fifteen drops have been expended in total! Now, there''s three drops left."


    "Three taels of the Extreme Wind Fire Lava have been expended."


    "Six drops of the Water of the Wood Essence have been expended."


    "Even with this much expended, it''s still short of that tiny bit." Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    It was too difficult to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword into a Connate Numinous treasure before he attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit.


    If not for the huge chunk of Chaos Pure Gold he had, Qin Yun would not have even dreamed of it.


    ¡­


    Days passed one by one.


    There were many who wanted the White Jade Token spots. They had other treasures, but Qin Yun only wanted wood-elemental Connate Wonders.


    In a blink of an eye, three months had passed since Qin Yun obtained the White Jade Token.


    "Junior Brother Qin, you do not want the Connate Wonder, Phoenix Fire Eidolon I have. This Lightning Dragon Immortal Chariot I have is a good treasure. It contains eight Lightning Dragons within! Each Lightning Dragon matches a ninth firmament Skyimmortal. This treasure alone is comparable to more than ten supreme-grade Numinous treasures. You don''t even want to consider the exchange when I''m offering it?" said a black-robed Daoist with a black calabash on his back.


    "Senior Brother, I currently only need Connate Wonders. That''s the same thing I tell the other senior brothers and sisters."


    "Sigh." The black-robed Daoist stood up and said in resignation, "However, Junior Brother Qin, you don''t cultivate in the Lightning Dharma. You do not have a need for the Connate Lightning Fruits you obtain from Lightning Beast Manor, right?"


    "No." Qin Yun shook his head.


    "Sell the Lightning Fruit you obtain when the time comes," persuaded the black-robed Daoist immediately.


    "Let''s discuss this further after I leave Lightning Beast Manor," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Sure thing."


    The black-robed Daoist shook his head as he began walking towards the compound''s door.


    And at that moment, a white-dressed woman walked in.


    "Oh?" The black-robed Daoist was stunned when he saw her. "Junior Sister Mu?"


    The white-dressed girl had a cold gaze, and a lightning mark in the middle of her brows. She could not be bothered to speak to the black-robed Daoist and instead, walked straight into the yard and looked at Qin Yun coldly. "Junior Brother Qin, does what you say previously still count?"


    "Yes, yes." Qin Yun was instantly delighted.


    "250 grams of Expanding Soil. Keep it well." The white-dressed threw a yellow piece of caked soil.


    Qin Yun looked at the caked soil with a burning look. What seemed like a tiny cake of soil contained the immense power of the Earth. It was none other than the Connate Wonder, Expanding Soil.

 513 Intrinsic Numinous Treasure

    Chapter 513: Intrinsic Numinous Treasure


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Expanding Soil?" The black-robed Daoist standing outside the yard could not help but be astonished when he saw this. "Junior Sister Mu, you managed to gather Expanding Soil?"


    The white-dressed woman ignored him and only stared at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun put away the Expanding Soil after he received it. He took out the White Jade Token and said, "Senior Sister Mu, inject a wisp of your Dharmic powers inside, and when the time comes, we can enter the Lightning Beast Manor together."


    "Pew." The white-dressed woman flicked her finger, sending a wisp of Dharmic powers into the White Jade Token.


    "I will be in Green Touring Palace for the foreseeable future. Notify me when we set off," said the woman.


    "Senior Sister Mu, don''t you worry," said Qin Yun with a smile. He was in an extremely good mood. He had waited so long for the earth-elemental Connate Wonder. He had been afraid that he would fail to obtain it after a year of seeking it.


    The woman turned and left.


    "Junior Sister Mu, tell me. Where did you get the Expanding Soil from?" The black-robed Daoist pressed as he chased after her.


    "You do not need to know." The white-dressed woman walked far into the distance.


    The black-robed Daoist watched her depart as he pouted and mumbled, "After being jilted by her man, she seems to have a grudge against every man in the world. Her temper is terrible." He had mumbled softly, even using his Dao domain to isolate his voice to prevent her from hearing him. If she had heard him¡­ he would probably be in trouble!


    "Creak."


    Meanwhile, Qin Yun had closed the door to his yard.


    Following that, he immediately entered a chamber and prepared to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword. It had been more than a month since his Intrinsic Flying Sword had absorbed any Connate Wonders.


    Inside the chamber.


    Qin Yun was in no hurry to begin. He first lit up an incense stick, allowing its faint fragrance to emanate the chamber.


    He wore the White Jade Token at his waist.


    The White Jade Token¡­ was disguised as a Jade Heart Cleansing Token on the surface, but in actual fact, it functioned as one! It just had the effects of the White Jade Token hidden within. Fiends were unable to activate the White Jade Token because the Chaos Lightning Beast abhorred fiends, wishing that they could be obliterated from the world. So how could he allow fiendish experts to enter his cave abode? Even if fiends chanced upon it, there was no way for them to discover its secret. They would only think of it as a normal Jade Heart Cleansing Token.


    They could not enter even if they discovered the secret!


    Fiendish Dharmic powers were unable to imprint a mark to take up any of the six spots in the White Jade Token.


    With the Jade Heart Cleansing Token safe on his person, his mind could be focused without any distracted thoughts.


    "It begins."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat and waved his hand. The cake of Expanding Soil flew out and floated a feet above the ground.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out from Qin Yun''s fingertip and hovered above the Expanding Soil. It was none other than the Misty Rain Sword.


    As Qin Yun circulated his Dharma formulation, a black-and-white chart surfaced over the Misty Rain Sword. Instantly, earth-yellow beams of light flew out from the extremely precious Connate Wonder Expanding Soil and into the black-and-white chart. The Misty Rain Sword Art absorbed the light as the Expanding Soil shrank at a slow but discernible pace.


    "Hum." The Misty Rain Sword trembled as a sword hum resounded through the chamber.


    Qin Yun could sense that the Misty Rain Sword was slowly transforming. When it absorbed the Expanding Soil''s energy, the flying sword seemed to take on a vast and boundless concept that belonged to the land.


    "Ang!"


    Suddenly, the flying sword''s hum intensified.


    "It''s beginning to break through. The Intrinsic Flying Sword requires the most when it''s breaking through." Qin Yun both released the Chaos Pure Gold from a calabash, and took out the Water of the First Essence from a bottle. He rapidly took the four other Connate Wonders. The largest remained the Chaos Pure Gold. It was also the fundamental Connate Wonder needed for the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s breakthrough.


    More than half the Expanding Soil was rapidly devoured.


    Following that, the Intrinsic Flying Sword very naturally absorbed the Chaos Pure Gold, causing it to shrink rapidly as it was sucked on noisily.


    Qin Yun watched in excitement. He could sense the internals of the Intrinsic Flying Sword changing tremendously.


    The Water of the First Essence''s extremely flexible nature.


    The Extreme Wind Fire Lava''s violent nature.


    The Water of the Wood Essence''s ceaseless vitality.


    The Expanding Soil''s boundlessness.


    All of this complemented the Chaos Pure Gold''s extreme sharpness! With the Chaos Pure Gold as the primary energy, the other four Connate Wonders acted as supplements. It began forming an even more powerful energy force.


    An hour later.


    Everything came to a halt.


    "A Connate Numinous treasure aligns with the Great Dao naturally." Qin Yun muttered as he took in the scene before him.


    A hazy rain blanketed the chamber, making it turn dark as the misty rain splattered. However, the chamber isolated all of this, or the misty rain might have easily enveloped an area spanning five thousand kilometers.


    And the single flying sword was floating in front of Qin Yun''s eyes.


    The flying sword had a misty rain swirl across its surface, and a terrifying killing intent lurked within its core.


    This killing intent alarmed Qin Yun.


    "Connate Numinous treasures were born out of the Chaos, so they naturally contain the Great Dao. All the Connate Numinous treasures in the Three Realms have a property they are strong in, and their strength isn''t all the same. Some ropes are good at capturing enemies, releasing lightning, flying, or even the releasing of flames¡­ And by using ordinary materials, one can at most refine a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. Only by using Connate Wonders would I be able to refine a Connate Numinous treasure.


    "Perhaps, the Connate Wonders hold a portion of the Great Dao within them."


    During Qin Yun''s nurturing of his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he also gained an understanding of the birth of Connate Numinous treasures. The five Connate Wonders all contained the concept of Chaos and included a portion of the Great Dao.


    By combining all of them, the Misty Rain Sword would birth a complete Great Dao!


    "I, Qin Yun, have cultivated for so many years. To think I''m lucky enough to obtain a Connate Numinous treasure." Qin Yun extended his hand as the Misty Rain Sword obediently came to a stop above his palm. However, the might contained within the flying sword was extremely terrifying due to the complete Great Dao inside it. It was because it was Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword that it was easier to control. If not, Qin Yun might not have had a way to refine such a powerful Connate Numinous treasure flying sword for himself.


    Connate Numinous treasures had varying strengths. They were also good in different aspects.


    As for the sword-type Connate Numinous treasures, all of them were good at killing!


    "Some ninth firmament Skyimmortals can match Golden Immortals and Buddhas just because they possess a powerful Connate Numinous treasure," thought Qin Yun. "Although my Dharmic powers are weaker, making me equivalent to a third firmament Skyimmortal from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, my flying sword¡­ is not only a Connate Numinous treasure, it is an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure. It''s more than sufficient to make up for my lacking Dharmic powers."


    "At least, I can sense it."


    "My flying sword''s might¡­"


    "Go!"


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The Misty Rain Sword flew out from his palm and tore through a rift inside the chamber''s space, but the rift rapidly healed.


    The Misty Rain Sword streaked across the chamber''s walls as they rippled. The ripples seemed to contain infinite power, fully withstanding Qin Yun''s terrifying blow. This was Green Touring Palace after all. Even mighty figures would not be able to destroy this chamber.


    "Just from this bit of might, I can see that my flying sword is at least stronger than Palatial Lord Kuishi." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Kuishi''s tail can even pose a threat to mighty figures. My flying sword can similarly threaten mighty figures."


    "In terms of killing my enemies and protecting myself, I''m stronger than Kuishi. However, my body is too weak¡­ Kuishi, meanwhile has a powerful body, allowing her to enter a battle with mighty figures. My body cannot withstand such a strike." Qin Yun understood this point. "I guess both my strengths and weaknesses are obvious."


    "However, I have nothing to fear as long as I have my flying sword protect me."


    Qin Yun knew very well that he was best when it came to forming a defense with his flying sword.


    With such a powerful flying sword protecting him, who could crack his defense? The meager means Kuishi had were nothing but a scratch.


    "Also¡­ my domain!"


    "My Misty Rain Sword''s control over the void is surprisingly powerful." Qin Yun looked at the fluttering misty rain. It could envelop an area of five thousand kilometers, just one of the powerful means available to a Connate Numinous treasure.

 514 The Sixth Spo

    Chapter 514: The Sixth Spot


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The misty rain enveloped five thousand kilometers, and through it, he had all the space within under his control!


    The might of the Misty Rain domain was even above that of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm! After all, it was the might of his Intrinsic Numinous treasure! As for the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, its ability to control the domain came from the appearance of the stellar forces. These two domains could be used by Qin Yun at the same time.


    "Whoosh."


    The Misty Rain Sword landed in Qin Yun''s palm.


    Qin Yun looked at the remnant Connate Wonders beside him. The Water of the First Essence, Extreme Wind Fire Lava, Water of the Wood Essence, and the Expanding Soil only had dregs left.


    "Chaos Pure Gold." Qin Yun looked at the Chaos Pure Gold which was only about the size of a human head. Qin Yun felt the pinch.


    "This is all that''s left from that huge piece of Chaos Pure Gold which was once half the height of a human. There''s less than twenty percent left." Although Qin Yun felt the pinch, he shook his head and smiled when he looked at the Misty Rain Sword in his palm. "However, my flying sword is now a Connate Numinous treasure, and eighty percent of it was thanks to this Chaos Pure Gold!"


    Even the tiny amount of Chaos Pure Gold left was extremely precious. It could easily be exchanged for two to three White Jade Token spots.


    He stored away the remaining Connate Wonders.


    Following that, Qin Yun crossed his legs and cultivated silently as the Misty Rain Sword floated in front of him.


    "Inside my Intrinsic Flying Sword is a Great Dao. It''s suitable for me to ponder over it." Qin Yun began studying the Great Dao within the flying sword.


    Originally, he had used ordinary materials to cultivate his Intrinsic Flying Sword to a superior-grade Numinous treasure level. Though that, his Misty Rain Sword Dao reached the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm.


    He then further nurtured it.


    The reason why so much Chaos Pure Gold was expended, followed by the Water of the First Essence, and the other three Connate Wonders, was that the Great Dao within his Intrinsic Flying Sword was formed by extracting portions of the Great Dao from within the Connate Wonders to build on the foundation of the late-stage Skyimmortal Misty Rain Sword Dao inside it.


    Therefore, the flying sword contained a Great Dao that was most suitable for Qin Yun. It traced back to the same origins.


    "I chose five Great Dao sword manuals in the Myriad Dharma Repository, but none of them was what I wanted the most. As for the Great Dao contained within my Intrinsic Flying Sword¡­ that is what suits me the best." Qin Yun looked at the flying sword floating in front of him. "From this day forth, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will be my master. I will work hard at figuring it out."


    His cultivation direction and a Great Dao that matched him perfectly were just in front of him! Qin Yun was naturally excited about that.


    "However, the Great Dao is just too mystical. Even if the Dao Ancestor were to preach the Dao, I would be confused." Qin Yun looked at the Intrinsic Flying Sword. "When I study my Intrinsic Flying Sword''s Great Dao, it''s like picking flowers amid fog, but at the very least¡­ I can find the flowers!"


    "Countless cultivators are stuck at the Skyimmortal bottleneck in the vast Three Realms. It prevents them from becoming Golden Immortals."


    Qin Yun was feeling elated and excited.


    With his Intrinsic Flying Sword becoming a Connate Numinous treasure, it increased his strength greatly, and it also increased his chances of becoming a Golden Immortal.


    ******


    Qin Yun was in no hurry to head to Lightning Beast Manor. Instead, he took the time to cultivate in seclusion, pondering over what his Intrinsic Flying Sword had to offer and consolidating his strength.


    In a blink of an eye, it had been eight months since Qin Yun obtained the White Jade Token.


    "Creak." The door to Qin Yun''s Green Touring Palace yard opened as he walked out.


    "It''s about time. I should decide on the final spot."


    The White Jade Token had a total of six spots.


    In order to gather the five-elemental Connate Wonders, he had sold four spots. He planned on heading to the Lightning Beast Manor to see it for himself, so there was still one spot remaining.


    "Junior Brother Qin."


    "Junior Brother Qin, you haven''t set off for the Lightning Beast Manor?"


    On the way, he encountered many of his fellow disciples, with which he exchanged brief pleasantries.


    "Qin Yun, you still have one White Jade Token spot, right?" A silver-robed elder walked over and said immediately, "I just obtained a powerful treasure. It''s called Cloud Snake Bell. It''s a famous treasure. You must have heard of it, right?"


    "Senior Brother Xue, how did Demon King Cloud Snake''s treasure land in your hands?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    "He''s dead. Anyways, the Cloud Snake Bell is now with me. How about it? Can I use it to exchange a White Jade Token spot?" inquired the silver-robed elder. "This Cloud Snake Bell is an excellent protective treasure, and it can be used to kill enemies. Even if you don''t use it, you can let your wife and daughter use it."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xue, but I have already decided on the final spot," said Qin Yun.


    "If you have already decided on it, why haven''t you set off?" harrumphed the silver-robed elder.


    "Soon." Qin Yun did not elaborate.


    On the way, he exchanged pleasantries with several senior brothers and sisters. These days, Qin Yun was considered quite an illustrious figure in the Green Touring Palace.


    Moments later, he came outside another compound. Qin Yun stood at the door and knocked.


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    The wooden door sounded.


    Qin Yun waited for a while, but he heard nothing inside.


    "Senior Brother Zhang." Qin Yun called out, but the compound remained silent.


    "Senior Brother Zhang''s second Essence Soul has always been in Green Touring Palace. If he''s not in here, could he be cultivating in seclusion somewhere in Green Touring Palace?" Only then did Qin Yun flip his hand to reveal his transmission token.


    The external world had no way of communicating with the Green Touring Palace''s interior as the Green Touring Palace transcended the Three Realms. Even mighty figures were unable to spy on this place.


    But communications could still happen inside Green Touring Palace.


    A phantom appeared beside him. It was none other than the azure-robed Daoist Divine Firmament, Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, it''s me."


    "Qin Yun?" Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged somewhere. There was lightning sparking around him. He asked, "Is there a reason you''ve contacted me?"


    "I''m outside your compound," said Qin Yun.


    "I''ll be there in a while," answered Ancestral Master Zhang before terminating the communication.


    Swoosh.


    Ancestral Master Zhang quickly rushed over from another end of Green Touring Palace. On the way, he pondered, "Why would Qin Yun suddenly seek me out? Either it''s something to do with the Great Chang world, or¡­"


    Soon, Ancestral Master Zhang arrived.


    "Senior Brother Zhang," greeted Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Come in and have a seat." Ancestral Master Zhang pushed open the door as Qin Yun followed him in.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sat down and helped pour some wine. He asked with a smile, "Qin Yun, your true body is now constantly in Green Touring Palace? Are you hiding from the fiends'' assassination attempts? Or are you hiding from greedy people?"


    "Greedy people?" Qin Yun was astonished. "You know about it?"


    "No." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "However, the White Jade Token implies many Connate Lightning Fruits. It will naturally attract many greedy people."


    "That''s right. In their eyes, my obtaining of a White Jade Token is like a three-year-old holding gold ingots inside a busy city. All of them yearn to grab it from me," said Qin Yun with a smile. Previously, he was somewhat vexed about all these troubles. The fiends wanted to kill him, and he had offended Fiercefire¡­ None of these would be easily resolved, but now that his Intrinsic Flying Sword had become an Intrinsic Numinous treasure, it was no longer a problem.


    "You have to be careful. Many cultivators in the Three Realms have malicious natures," exhorted Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "I know." Qin Yun nodded. "By the way, Senior Brother Zhang, I''ve finished my preparations, and I plan to set off to Lightning Beast Manor soon."


    "Congratulations," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    Lightning Beast Manor¡­ Connate Lightning Fruits.


    To a cultivator who had created his own Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, he naturally yearned to go! Especially when his Dharmic formulation had been stuck at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm! Although his Lightning Dharma realm had long reached the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm, creating a top Lightning Dharma was still very difficult.


    He had never used Connate Lightning Fruits. He believed that just one use would aid him greatly.


    As for Lightning Beast Manor, it was the cave abode of the Chaos Lightning Beast. There were probably other treasures related to the Lightning Dharma there as well. He wished to go¡­


    However, one White Jade Token spot was just too precious. He could not bring himself to request it from Qin Yun.


    "There is one spot left on the White Jade Token." Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang. "I plan on inviting you to join me."


    "Me?" Ancestral Master Zhang was taken aback.


    "I''m just short of you. Once you agree, six of us Green Touring Palace disciples can head to Lightning Beast Manor together," said Qin Yun with a smile.

 515 Lightning Beast Manor

    Chapter 515: Lightning Beast Manor


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Deep down, Ancestral Master Zhang wished to go, but the White Jade Token spots were extremely precious. To take one would be holding a hot potato! Besides, Qin Yun had declared previously that a spot needed a Connate Wonder. He was completely unable to produce one. The most precious item he had was the Lightning Department''s Numinous treasure Seal he obtained from the Star Cluster Hall. It was extremely high in value, and it would have been sufficient to exchange for a White Jade Token spot.


    However, he was unwilling to give it up. He had created his own Lightning Dharma, and had passed the second round of tests at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. Therefore, the treasure bestowed by Star Cluster Hall was very precious to him.


    "You might be inviting me, but I have no way of going," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a shake of his head. "Even I find such a huge opportunity to be a hot potato."


    "Senior Brother Zhang, given our relationship, why would you call it that? Besides, you have helped me numerous times in the past. If not for you, I might not have been able to save my daughter and wife."


    "I only helped you in passing. Alright, don''t force me," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "Since you are bringing up our past ties, why don''t you sell me one of the Connate Lightning Fruits when you exit Lightning Beast Manor. I won''t be able to buy three or four of them, but I can scrape together enough to afford one."


    However, Qin Yun said solemnly, "Senior Brother Zhang, the cultivation path is not easy to begin with. Each step we advance is done so with difficulty. We are also not given the luxury to step back. That Lightning Beast Manor is the Connate Lightning Beast''s cave abode. Apart from the Connate Lightning Fruits, there are other opportunities. Since you cultivate in the Lightning Dharma, you should go! If you think you owe me, then just owe me temporarily. You can return the favor in the future!"


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked like he was in a dilemma.


    The cultivation path was indeed difficult. He reached a bottleneck when he attained the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm. He did not even have the nascent form of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma.


    The opportunities of Lightning Beast Manor were indeed very rare.


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun and finally nodded. "Alright, I''ll owe you for now. I''ll repay it to you in the future."


    "That''s more like it," said Qin Yun with a smile. "By the way, when are available to set off?"


    "Anytime!"


    "Alright, I''ll contact the other four and we can decide on the set off date."


    ¡­


    The other four were already prepared to set off at any time.


    That day, people began gathering in Qin Yun''s compound.


    "Creak." Qin Yun went to open the door and saw a single-horned black-robed Daoist walk in.


    "Senior Brother Ravenhorn," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Please enter."


    "Junior Brother Ravenhorn is here. I was convinced that Junior Brother Ravenhorn would be one of the six." A bearded elder inside the yard said with a laugh. "Come on, sit anywhere. There are two who haven''t arrived."


    "Xiahou." Demon King Ravenhorn nodded before taking his seat. He shot a glance at Daoist Divine Firmament who was sitting not far from him. "Junior Brother Zhang."


    "Senior Brother Ravenhorn." Ancestral Master Zhang greeted.


    Qin Yun watched all of this. He had not divulged the exact details of who was going to the Lightning Beast Manor except for the general strengths of the six.


    Among the six, Ancestral Master Zhang was the weakest. Still, he was considered the cream of the crop among ninth firmament Skyimmortals.


    Demon King Ravenhorn had the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. He was an avian demon that cultivated in the Dao, and was innately good at controlling lightning.


    Daoist Xiahou, a half-step Golden Immortal, was extremely powerful at talismans.


    Fairy Mu was half-step Golden Immortal. She cultivated in a physical Dharmic formulation, and was good at melee combat! Her strength was probably only second to Sa Xu among the six!


    Senior Brother Sa Xu did not need further elaboration!


    "Apart from Ancestral Master Zhang and I, those that can afford to buy the White Jade Token spots are at the very least half-step Golden Immortals," thought Qin Yun.


    After waiting for a moment, a white-dressed woman with cold eyes walked in.


    She swept her gaze and took a glance at Daoist Xiahou, Demon King Ravenhorn, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Qin Yun before sitting silently to the side.


    "He''s here." Qin Yun stood up to welcome the last person.


    From afar, a white-robed man walked over. He looked ordinary, but deep in the recesses of his eyes he had a natural aloofness that seemed to view everything as beneath him. When one cultivated in the Lightning Dharma, the deeper they went, the closer they appeared to be like the heavens, high and aloof. Once they cultivated on an extremely high realm, they were truly able to replace the Heavens to mete out Heavenly Punishment! One lightning strike would be like smiting with Heavenly Punishment. Their own bodies would seem to cloaked in the will of the Heavenly Dao.


    This was decided by the Dharmic formulation that was cultivated.


    "Senior Brother Sa," greeted Qin Yun.


    Mu, Xiahou, Ravenhorn, and Ancestral Master Zhang all stood up and greeted rather reverently, "Senior Brother Sa."


    He did not rely on Connate Numinous treasures or divine powers, and he matched that of a Golden Immortal mighty figure. He was naturally worthy of their respect.


    "Three of you are half-step Golden Immortals, and Junior Brother Qin and Junior Brother Zhang." Sa Xu walked in and nodded. "Apart from Junior Brother Qin, the rest of you all cultivate in the Lightning Dharma. That''s good too. We avoided having some random people join us."


    "Shall we set off now?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes, to the Lightning world." Sa Xu nodded.


    They flew off¡­


    The blurry light descended as the six figures vanished.


    ******


    The Lightning world was a Small World.


    It was also where the Chaos Lightning Beast, Bai Xiao, established his Lightning Beast Manor.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun and company stood amid the cosmos as they looked at the planet in front of them.


    "Boom!


    The Small World''s surface was completely blanketed in lightning. Countless lightning streaks sparked out like snakes. Typical Small Worlds had a layer of clouds on the planet''s surface.


    However, the periphery of the Lightning world was covered with lightning clouds. As countless lightning bolts sparked across the planet, they would occasionally resound with a loud clap of thunder before blasting out a huge bolt of lightning! The might was extremely terrifying. Perhaps weaker Skyimmortals and Skyfiends would be smote to death from it.


    "Although this Lightning world is a Small World, it has managed to generate infinite lightning¡­ It''s not suited for life," said Xiahou. "However, Bai Xiao liked such an environment and even built a cave abode here."


    Sa Xu looked down and said, "The Lightning world has a unique environment, which is why its suitable for the growth of the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree. It''s not possible for Heaven Earth Spirit Roots to take root in ordinary places. Let''s go down."


    Swoosh.


    The six swooped down.


    Everyone present apart from Qin Yun were experts at controlling the lighting. Even the weakest Ancestral Master Zhang was considered the cream of the crop among ninth firmament Skyimmortals. They naturally were not afraid of the bolts of lightning that would occasionally shoot out around them.


    "Pu¡­ Pu¡­ Pu¡­"


    As Qin Yun and company continued their flight, they tore through layer after layer of lightning clouds.


    "The Lightning world was said to only have one such cloud early on. Now, there are nine layers." Xiahou said smilingly as he flew. "It was Bai Xiao who invited the Heavenly Lord of Universal Transformation to refine a Ninth Firmament Heavenly realm Array. It''s only because we have the White Jade Token that we are able to easily fly in here. Without it, even mighty figures can forget about cracking it."


    Sa Xu said, "Bai Xiao lived long and he was in control of a Heaven Earth Spirit Root, the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree. Many experts in the Three Realms had to fawn over him. He had long set up the Lightning world to have an impregnable defense, and because it is a Small World, mighty figures are unable to enter with their true bodies. Therefore, no one has been able to snatch the Heaven Earth Spirit Root for themselves."


    "Many experts in the Three Realms coveted his possession of a Heaven Earth Spirit Root," asked Qin Yun out of curiosity, "Yet, he lived so long. Why would he eventually die under the hands of an Ancestral Fiend?"


    "He was trying to seek revenge for a good friend. He lost his mind with murderous rage and eventually lost his life for it," answered Sa Xu.


    Mu, Xiahou, Ravenhorn, Zhang, and Qin Yun were astonished hearing this.


    There was actually such an untold story about the Connate Lightning Beast''s death?


    He had sought revenge for a good friend?


    ¡­


    As they conversed, the six quickly tore through the nine layers of clouds and saw vast, rugged lands. Far in the distance, lightning bolts from the sky would strike the ground before spreading in various directions. Over time, large swaths of land in the Lightning world had been crystallized from the lightning strikes! There was purple crystals everywhere.


    And far into the distance was a contiguous ancient cave abode. Although it was very far away, it still emanated an endless repression.


    In order to protect the Connate Spirit Root, the Chaos Lightning Beast had spent a great deal of effort to construct his cave abode.

 516 Churning Space-time

    Chapter 516: Churning Space-time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "What a huge cave abode." Daoist Xiahou could not help but marvel when he looked at it from afar.


    Qin Yun and company took in the rather majestic immortal abode. There was a contiguous palatial complex running through it, and deep within the cave abode was a towering mountain. There were also palatial complexes on the mountain itself.


    Bolts of lightning were flowing through the immortal abode''s buildings.


    "Let''s enter." Sa Xu said as he was the first to fly over.


    The surrounding void was sealed.


    No method, be it Major Void Transference, or transmission methods developed by the Daoists, Buddhists or Heavenly Courts, could send an individual straight into the Lightning world! The Chaos Lightning Beast was truly wealthy, far more wealthier than many Golden Immortals and Buddhas. His possession of a Heaven Earth Spirit Root made his status in the Three Realms supernatural! It was all because he had secretly taken the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree at the birth of the Three Realms. Later, when Pangu split the heaven and earth, he rapidly sought out the Lightning world, a place most suited for the growth of the Lightning Fruit Tree. He went to great lengths to establish his nest and plant it there.


    Even now with him dead, his nest was still sealed under numerous array formations. Mighty figures were unable to descend with their true bodies. Up to this day, no one had been able to take the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree for themselves.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Qin Yun and company landed in front of the Lightning Beast Manor''s entrance.


    Qin Yun immediately sensed the White Jade Token in his clothes yearning to fly out.


    "Junior Brother Qin," Daoist Xiahou said with a smile. "Take the White Jade Token out or we won''t be able to enter."


    "Alright." Qin Yun took out the White Jade Token.


    It immediately flew to the middle of the complex array chart on the door, a result of its strong attraction to the abode, landing snugly into an empty runic spot.


    Hua¡ª


    The doors began to slowly open.


    Sa Xu walked in without any hesitation. Qin Yun and company followed behind one after another.


    "The White Jade Token has been taken away just like that." Qin Yun looked at the manor''s huge door.


    Ravenhorn sighed. "The next time the Connate Lightning Fruits ripen, the White Jade Token will appear in the world once again and be discovered once again. Another six will come and this will go on for generations¡­ Everyone will owe a huge karmic debt to Bai Xiao!"


    "He wants to kill an Ancestral Fiend!" Fairy Mu said coldly. "It''s not even defeating, but killing¡­ Only a pinnacle Golden Immortal would be able to resolve that karma. It''s still something that eludes us."


    "How can killing an Ancestral Fiend be easy?" Daoist Xiahou Zhen shook his head and sighed. "This Connate Lightning Beast really hated that Ancestral Fiend to the bone. However, if any of us can really reach the pinnacle of the Golden Immortal realm, perhaps it won''t be terrible to be tied to this karma."


    Daoist Xiahou looked at Sa Xu and immediately said with a smile, "Of course, Senior Brother Sa has created the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma himself. He is famous throughout the Three Realms, being able to match mighty figures whilst being a ninth firmament Skyimmortal. If he were to become a Golden Immortal¡­ it would not be difficult for him to have strength matching that of a pinnacle Golden Immortal."


    Sa Xu did not say a word as he continued proceeding forward.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The manor door behind them slowly closed.


    Qin Yun and company entered the open cave abode''s front yard. It was very wide and spanned nearly fifty kilometers. The ground was paved neatly with granite.


    "Here it comes." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. Sa Xu, Fairy Mu, Ancestral Master Zhang, and the rest watched as a white-haired elder materialized out of light that condensed in the distance.


    "It''s the Guardian General."


    "From the Guardian General''s aura, it should have the strength of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal."


    Qin Yun and company made a rough estimate.


    The white-haired elder chuckled as he bowed, "Greetings esteemed guests. The six of you probably know the rules of my Lightning Beast Manor; however, I will still have to briefly explain them."


    "Follow the path of this main palace through Lightning Beast Manor. Once you reach the mountainside, there will be three palaces, each having a test," said the white-haired elder with a smile. "These three tests will test your strength. The stronger you are, the higher the number of Connate Lightning Fruits you''ll receive."


    "Apart from the three main tests, there are seventy-two other tests in the Lightning Beast Manor. However, they test one''s Lightning Dharma. If you have never cultivated in the Lightning Dharma, don''t bother entering," said the elder. "My master was a Chaos Lightning Beast who was born before Pangu split the heaven and earth apart. He has a natural affinity with the Lightning Dharma, and he has many treasures that suit the cultivation of the Lightning Dharma. I believe the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests will be of some help to all of you."


    "The seventy-two tests can be taken one after another. They take quite long, and my Lightning Beast Manor only gives our six guests ten years. Once those ten years are up, all your achievements in Lightning Beast Manor¡­ will ultimately decide the number of Connate Lightning Fruits you will receive. After the Connate Lightning Fruits are handed out, I will send the six of you away."


    "Everyone, you can enter any testing ground from the start, but there are places where you should give some thought before barging in. You might lose your life," said the elder smilingly. "Alright, I won''t disturb you any further." With that said, he bowed slightly and his body dissipated into beams of light.


    Qin Yun and company watched this scene, but they already knew this ahead of time.


    After all, they were not the first batch who had entered.


    "Junior Brother Qin." Daoist Xiahou smiled cheekily. "You do not cultivate in the Lightning Dharma so all you need to do is participate in the three palaces. Yet, we only have ten years¡­ Counting the three palaces, we have a total of seventy-five tests to take. There''s not enough time at all."


    "Senior Brother Xiahou, to think you are still not admitting to the benefit you received," said Qin Yun with his lips curled.


    Ancestral Master Zhang gazed at the three palaces, the most conspicuous buildings on the mountainside, in the distance before saying, "According to what I know, the first of the three palaces on the mountainside requires one be a powerful ninth firmament Skyimmortal before they have a chance of passing. The second palace requires one to be a half-step Golden Immortal. As for the third palace, it requires one to have a strength that matches that of a mighty figure."


    He was the weakest person present. He had no hopes of getting beyond even the second palace.


    "Junior Brother Zhang," said Daoist Xiahou immediately. "Don''t lose heart. If you do well enough, you will still be given quite a number of fruits even if you fail completely. The Guardian General is constantly watching the Lightning Beast Manor. Therefore, you should do your best and try to work to the full extent of your capabilities."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xia."


    "Senior Brother Sa Xu, shall we head for the three main palaces first?" Fairy Mu stared at the strongest person present instead, Sa Xu.


    Sa Xu nodded. "The three palaces are the most important. Let''s attempt them one after another. We can then choose any of the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests later."


    "We will heed your suggestion. Let''s attempt the three palaces first. Haha, I believe I will only barely manage to pass the second palace. I would have to leave the third palace not long after entering anyway." Daoist Xiahou chuckled.


    The others did not say a word.


    The third palace?


    One could pass only if they were at the strength of a mighty figure. The only one present that met that qualification was Sa Xu.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The six immediately flew on clouds through Lightning Beast Manor. Many regions in the manor had lightning bolts stirring.


    "The speed at which time flows here is very strange," thought Qin Yun alarmingly. "Although I had gathered sufficient information on this prior to coming, it still feels weird when I experience it for myself."


    "In Lightning Beast Manor, time flows at different rates in different zones," exclaimed Daoist Xiahou.


    "In the vast Three Realms, some Small Worlds are very special. This Lightning world contains an ancient lightning pool. Sa Xu pointed at the towering mountain in the distance. "The lightning pool is said to be inside the belly of the mountain. The Connate Lightning Fruit Tree is only able to grow because of the lightning pool."


    "That must be the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree, right?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang as he pointed at the mountaintop.


    Qin Yun also looked to the mountain.


    Inside Lightning Beast Manor, one could see the towering palaces covering the mountaintop. Behind the palace was a sturdy and huge tree. The tree had leaves and branches, as well as a few fruits. However, the trunk, branches, and fruits were filled with blinding lightning! The entire fruit tree¡­ resembled a tree formed out of lightning.


    "It''s the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree." Sa Xu nodded as well. "Unfortunately, we can only see it, but not touch it. That Connate Lightning Fruit Tree''s roots are said to be entrenched inside the lightning pool. The pool contains massive energies that can even churn space-time! Lightning Beast Manor is built atop the lightning pool, so time flows strangely in many of the zones in here.


    "The Chaos Lightning Beast was like a fish in water in here, but we have to be careful," warned Sa Xu. "Apart from the three main palaces and the seventy-two test venues, it''s best we do not fly around recklessly. If you''re not careful, don''t blame anyone when you die! Back then, the Chaos Lightning Beast had used the environment in here to deceitfully harm immortals and fiends that coveted this place."


    "Yes." Everyone nodded.


    "The spot we just passed through had time flow at a rate 110 times faster than the Effulgent Great World. And here, it''s only 5 times. Half of my body is experiencing time faster, while the other half is experiencing time slowly. It''s really uncomfortable," said Daoist Xiahou with a chuckle.


    Qin Yun also found it quite eye-opening.


    Due to the different speed at which time passed, there were indeed times when their bodies would experience different rates.


    It was only because everyone present had extraordinary strength, with Qin Yun also casting his protective great divine power. The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes formed a world that protected his body, reducing the influence the different rates of time had on his body. If it were a weaker person, just the environment would be enough to severely injure them.


    "We have arrived at the first palace." Qin Yun and company reached the foot of the mountain as they saw the palace sitting on the mountainside nearby.


    "I''ll go in first." Sa Xu said before he transformed into a lightning bolt. With a flash, he entered the palace.


    "Let''s wait and go in one at a time. The first palace will be fast." Daoist Xiahou chuckled as he spoke. He flipped his hand and took out an alcohol gourd and drank from it. He looked at Qin Yun and said, "Junior Brother Qin, I say, although Junior Brother Zhang is weaker, he does cultivate in the Lightning Dharma. There are seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests here which will be very helpful for him. What''s a sword immortal like you doing in here? All you will do is take the first palace''s test and you will be done. Then, will you be waiting sillily here for ten years before leaving with three fruits? If I had a say, you would have sold this spot of yours."


    "Just broadening my horizons," said Qin Yun with a smile. Naturally, he came here with a plan.

 517 Qin Yuns Plan

    Chapter 517: Qin Yun''s Plan


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After the attempted assassination by Palatial Lord Kuishi, Qin Yun felt a sense of urgency!


    After the fallout with Fiercefire, it was even more imperative for Qin Yun to rapidly raise his strength. Although he had expended the five elemental Connate Wonders to raise his Intrinsic Flying Sword to the Connate Numinous treasure level, the raising of his realm required actual cultivation. It needed the accumulation of time. Therefore, he planned on finding a good spot to enter proper seclusion!


    What he lacked most was time.


    Therefore, he wished to find a place where ''time flowed fast.'' It also had to be extremely safe, a place where fiends could not sneak up on him or where other experts in the Three Realms could spy on him! Furthermore, it had to be suitable for his cultivation!


    Such a place was hard to find.


    And Lightning Beast Manor was no doubt most suited for this.


    Space-time had been stirred here, with time flowing at different rates in different zones. The spot where time flowed the fastest was 1200 times that of the Effulgent Great World. The ten years test set by the Lightning Beast Manor¡­ allowed him to cultivate for 12,000 years at that spot! This was a lot of time for Qin Yun, who had only cultivated for about a hundred plus years.


    Furthermore, Lightning Beast Manor was extremely safe! No one could enter without the White Jade Token!


    Furthermore, the warping of space-time here was advantageous to Qin Yun''s cultivation of space-time! After all, any mighty figure would have an extremely profound level of understanding of space-time.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword contains a Great Dao and has formed a Misty Rain domain, one that has control over the void. My Sword Dao¡­ was originally about controlling the Heavenly Cycles, so its control over space is extremely high. In fact, it has even gone further to be able to influence time itself. And if one wants to pry open the secrets of space-time, the Lightning Beast Manor is no doubt an extremely suitable place." Qin Yun looked at the tranquil cave abode. "I shall be spending the longest period of cultivation of my life to date in here."


    "I wish that such a long period of cultivation will benefit me greatly." Qin Yun felt a sense of anticipation.


    ¡­


    "Xiahou, why do you care so much? Junior Brother Qin has already sold five spots. He used one spot to enter himself, so why poke your nose into his affairs?" Ravenhorn was standing there watching the main palace in front of him. He could not help but shoot a glance at Daoist Xiahou. "Regardless of the outcome, he will get at least three Connate Lightning Fruits when he enters. Junior Brother Qin won''t lose out much."


    "He will ultimately lose out a little in the end," said Xiahou. "I''m saying this for Junior Brother Qin''s own good."


    "Mind yourself first. There''s Senior Brother Sa, Junior Sister Mu, and me here as well. You will probably only get three fruits yourself." Ravenhorn curled his lips.


    "Do you think I will be inferior to you?" Daoist Xiahou glared at him.


    Ravenhorn scoffed, he could not be bothered to respond.


    "A big bird like you¡­" Daoist Xiahou was just about to enter a contentious argument, when Qin Yun said, "Senior Brother Sa is out."


    Everyone immediately looked over.


    The first palace on the mountainside in front of them had array swirls that prevented one from seeing what was happening inside. Now, the array halo had dissipated while Sa Xu walked out calmly. He gave his five juniors a look before transforming into a stream of light and heading for the second main palace.


    "That was fast. He took only a while to clear the first palace. As expected of Senior Brother Sa," marveled Daoist Xiahou.


    "I''ll enter next," the icy-cold Fairy Mu said before flying towards the first palace''s entrance.


    "Junior Sister Mu, go ahead," said Daoist Xiahou with a chuckle. Following that, he drank some more alcohol and chatted with Qin Yun. "This first main palace will be very fast. It will probably take half a day for all of us to clear it. By the way, Junior Brother Zhang, you have to be careful. Junior Brother Qin''s strength should be sufficient for him to clear it. As for you, it''s hard to say. Don''t be careless."


    "Junior Brother Zhang, his mouth stinks. Ignore him," said Ravenhorn.


    Ancestral Master Zhang smiled faintly.


    ¡­


    As they conversed, Fairy Mu walked out.


    "I''ll go in next." Daoist Xiahou immediately flew towards the entrance.


    "I won''t vie with you," said Ravenhorn contemptuously.


    One followed the other.


    The first main palace was the easiest among the three. It only took about ten minutes for a half-step Golden Immortal to clear it.


    Soon, there was only Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang left.


    "Qin Yun, you go ahead first. I''m afraid I''ll spend a little longer in the first main palace. This is also my only chance of clearing it, so I''m not in a rush," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Alright." Qin Yun flew to the palace in front of him.


    The moment he entered the palace hall, he fell into the confines of the array formation.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at the space around him which appeared indistinct and boundless. From the horizon, an azure-robed man flew over. He held a sword in one hand as he charged at Qin Yun.


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Sword floated in front of him.


    When he powered his Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure with his Dharmic powers, a faint, hazy drizzle appeared around him. The surroundings were enveloped by the Misty Rain domain. The drizzle that hit the azure-robed man''s body weighed him down!


    The Misty Rain domain formed by the Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure was even stronger than the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm which Qin Yun had only gained an initial success in. It was enough to influence those at the strength of half-step Golden Immortals.


    "Kill!" The azure-robed man rushed Qin Yun and stabbed as fast as lightning.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Decimate."


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Wisps of the scattering drizzle immediately formed into Swords of Rainwater. At that instant, sixteen Swords of Rainwater formed around the azure-robed man and attacked him.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Under Qin Yun''s control, the Swords of Rainwater moved in a mystical and unpredictable manner at extremely fast speeds. Although the azure-robed man was brandishing his sword in an attempt to fend off the attacks, his body was instantly penetrated by the rainwater blades. After his body was riddled with more than ten holes, his body dissipated into nothingness.


    "Its strength is quite weak, only at the ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal level." Qin Yun made a judgment.


    Immediately following that, a red-dressed woman came attacking. After destroying her, another golden-robed strongman attacked. Finally it was a black-robed elder.


    After Qin Yun dealt with each of them, the four appeared at the same time. They joined forces to attack Qin Yun in a Four Symbols Formation. Their combined strength was a lot higher, but Qin Yun''s Misty Rain domain formed ninety-nine Swords of Rainwater which had a strength above that of the Swords of Stellar Light. It was still very easy for him to crack the Four Symbols Formation.


    "Congratulations on cracking the Four Symbols Formation. You can head to the second palace to continue cracking the array formations." A voice resounded inside the array formation.


    Following that, the array formation''s halo dissipated. Qin Yun looked at the door behind him.


    He flew out of it.


    "You were pretty fast." Ancestral Master Zhang smiled as he flew over. "I''m now the only one left."


    "The Four Symbols Formation is just as the intelligence depicts. I believe you will definitely crack it," said Qin Yun.


    "Let''s hope so." As Ancestral Master Zhang spoke, he flew in.


    Qin Yun watched it all happen quietly.


    It was indeed uncertain if Ancestral Master Zhang could clear the array formation.


    Sou!


    Following that, Qin Yun flew in the direction of the mountain. Soon, he arrived in front of a palace around midway up the mountain. Fairy Mu, Daoist Xiahou, and Demon King Ravenhorn were waiting at a plateau in front of the palace.


    "Senior Brother Sa hasn''t exited?" inquired Qin Yun when he landed.


    "Not yet. According to past experiences, clearing the second palace at the half-step Golden Immortal realm will roughly take a day," said Daoist Xiahou. "Of course, Senior Brother Sa''s strength far exceeds ours. However, he will probably still take two to four hours."


    Ravenhorn added, "The difficulty increases as we proceed. The third palace¡­ can only be attempted by mighty figures. Typically, even they will still take a month to clear it. As for us weaker ones, it''s already quite lucky for us if we can clear the second palace. We will probably be thrown out by the third palace in less than a day."


    "That''s right. It''s difficult." Daoist Xiahou sighed.


    Fairy Mu stood there waiting silently, giving off vibes that prevented anyone from coming close to her.


    After waiting for a while¡­


    Sa Xu walked out of the second palace door. He looked at Qin Yun and company once and, without a word, flew towards the third palace that was situated at a higher spot.


    "Whoosh." Fairy Mu flew in directly. Qin Yun, Xiahou, and Ravenhorn did not fight to go before her.


    "Let Junior Sister Mu try first. Although we have gathered some intelligence, the records are all quite incomplete," said Xiahou with a smile.


    Time slowly passed.


    While waiting, Ancestral Master Zhang flew over, surprising Xiahou.


    But soon, everyone quieted down. Some even sat cross-legged to wait.


    This wait lasted for a day.


    Inside the second palace, the array formation halo dissipated as Fairy Mu walked out with her face pale.


    "She cleared it," said Ravenhorn.


    One would be thrown out by the array formation if they failed! It was impossible to casually walk out.


    Fairy Mu walked out the palace and looked at Qin Yun, Xiahou, Ravenhorn, and Ancestral Master Zhang on the plateau. With her usual cold demeanor, she said coldly, "It''s very dangerous inside." With that said, she flew off and headed for the third palace.


    "Very dangerous? Didn''t you still clear it?" Xiahou mumbled before he strode forward.


    Qin Yun, Ravenhorn, and Ancestral Master Zhang waited very patiently.


    This wait lasted for more than half a day.


    "Boom!"


    A tumultuous shockwave blasted out as Xiahou flew out of the palace''s door in a pathetic manner. Seven divine swords and a rope flew out as well.


    When he landed, Xiahou stumbled for two steps before getting his footing.


    "I failed?" Xiahou found it hardly acceptable.


    From the side, Ravenhorn''s expression turned solemn. Regardless, he had to admit that Xiahou''s strength was about equal to his. Furthermore, Xiahou had become a half-step Golden Immortal a long time ago. Perhaps he had certain powerful tricks up his sleeves, but still, he had failed the second palace and was thrown out.


    Qin Yun''s heart tightened as well.

 518 Soundless and Stirless

    Chapter 518: Soundless and Stirless


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I failed even when Junior Sister Mu managed to clear it?" Daoist Xiahou stood in his spot and reflected on what had just happened. "I actually failed to withstand that combined attack?"


    "Junior Sister Mu has used every means possible in recent years to become more powerful," Ravenhorn said. "She even succeeded in her secondary cultivation focus of the Physical Establishing Sage. It''s no surprise that she was able to clear it."


    Xiahou nodded and sighed. "That''s right. The young lass from before is now stronger than me in a blink of an eye."


    "I''ll be going in now." Ravenhorn did not speak further as he flew straight in.


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang watched everything play out.


    Feeling a little disheartened, Xiahou sat cross-legged in the corner of the plateau to ruminate over matters.


    "Just the second of the three tests is that difficult?" Ancestral Master Zhang could not help but say.


    "Let''s see how Senior Brother Ravenhorn fares," added Qin Yun.


    After waiting for a while¡ª


    Swoosh.


    A white-dressed woman''s figure flew down.


    "Junior Sister Mu, why did you come down? Have you decided not to attempt the third palace?" The seated Xiahou opened his eyes and said loudly.


    Fairy Mu shot him a glance as she floated past. "Senior Brother Sa will probably take a month. If you want to wait, go ahead."


    As she swooped down, she flew in the direction of the palatial complex.


    "Senior Sister Mu must be heading for the seventy-two tests." Ancestral Master Zhang, who was sitting cross-legged, stood up as well. "That''s right. We only have ten years in Lightning Beast Manor. There are still seventy-two tests waiting for us below! I can''t afford to waste my time."


    "Senior Brother Zhang, are you heading down?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I barely cleared the first palace. There''s completely no hope for me when it comes to the second palace, so I''ll not wait here for naught." As Ancestral Master Zhang spoke, he flew downwards.


    Fairy Mu and Ancestral Master Zhang flew downwards one after another to attempt the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests. This left Xiahou in a dilemma. He shot a glance at Qin Yun and could not help but say, "Junior Brother Qin, are you going to wait here?"


    "I don''t cultivate in the Lightning Dharma, so I''m in no rush." Qin Yun sat cross-legged leisurely and waited.


    Xiahou looked towards the palace door before he closed his eyes and continued to sit waiting.


    About a day passed.


    Hua!


    The ancient palace''s array formation halo dissipated, revealing Ravenhorn who had one leg and arm gone. His body was covered in injuries and he had a pair of black wings behind him. His eyes appeared deranged.


    "I passed." When Ravenhorn saw the familiar palace door, the corner of his mouth hooked into a smile. His wings disappeared as his arm and leg began to grow slowly. While this was happening, he floated up and flew out.


    When Xiahou saw Ravenhorn''s heavy injuries, he could not help but ask, "You fought so hard?"


    "If I don''t fight hard now, am I to wait until the next Daoist-Fiend war to do so?" Ravenhorn smirked. "By not becoming a Golden Immortal, the ones who will die the next time might be us."


    "Daoist-Fiend war?" Xiahou said immediately. "The flames of war spread through the Three Realms back then, with countless dead and injured. There was so much death among the Daoists, Buddhists and the Fiends that it resulted in an armistice. How could another huge war happen?"


    "We failed to eradicate the Fiends the last time, so when the Fiends begin war the next time, it will only be more terrifying," said Ravenhorn with a sneer.


    Xiahou fell silent.


    The both of them had experienced that era. It was unlike the war of the three Daoist schools of thought which at least had a bottom line. The worst that could happen was death, leaving behind a soul for the deceased to reincarnate. As for the rise of the Fiends, they would vanquish a soul entirely. Countless experts of the Three Realms died as a result of that. Many Chaos Godfiends had managed to survive the turmoil of the Ancient Heavenly Courts and the war between the three Daoist schools of thought, only to perish in the Daoist-Fiend war.


    "Another Daoist-Fiend war?" Qin Yun could not help but ask.


    Ravenhorn looked at Qin Yun. "Junior Brother Qin, you have not cultivated for long, so you have never really experienced it! I''m telling you, if another Daoist-Fiend war were to begin, it would definitely be crazier than the last one. You won''t even be able to hide from it. That''s why the only way to survive is to become stronger."


    Ravenhorn looked up and scoffed. "Senior Sister Mu did not just wait sillily?"


    His arm and leg had completely recovered.


    Sou!


    He flew straight down.


    "Senior Brother Xiahou Zhen, will there really be another Daoist-Fiend war?" inquired Qin Yun. To him, the war of the Ancient Heavenly Courts, the war of the three Daoist schools of thought, and the Daoist-Fiend war were all distant history!


    "Ignore him." Xiahou Zhen curled his lips. "Ravenhorn experienced the Ancient Heavenly Courts era as well as the war between the three Daoist schools of thought. This is what you call once bitten twice shy! Besides, he has been bitten thrice. Even if war were to break out again in the Three Realms, it will probably be tens of millions of years in the future, perhaps a hundred million years."


    Qin Yun nodded in silence.


    "Junior Sister Mu and Ravenhorn have cleared the test, but I failed." Xiahou looked at the ancient palace door. "Even if I risk my life and use my life-preservation treasures, I will only have a fifty percent chance of clearing it. Whatever, I''ll first attempt the seventy-two tests. I''ll make another attempt when the ten years are nearly up. Junior Brother Qin, I won''t accompany you any longer."


    With that said, Xiahou swooped downwards.


    Qin Yun watched his departing back.


    Now, all of them had left to attempt the seventy--two Lightning Dharma tests, leaving Qin Yun alone in front of the second palace.


    "Whoosh."


    The mountain winds blew, rustling the fallen leaves on the ground.


    The palace in front of him had an ancient history, but now, it appeared desolate.


    "Let''s see how daunting the second palace''s test is." Qin Yun strode over, crossed the door sill, and went into the palace.


    The array formation began activating as the scenery changed.


    Ten warriors walked out of the array formation''s boundary and charged at Qin Yun.


    "Whoosh."


    The Misty Rain Sword floated beside Qin Yun as a blurry drizzle enveloped his surroundings immediately. Swords were formed by the drizzle as they flew out.


    The ten warriors dissipated as twenty warriors appeared from the array formation''s boundary to replace them.


    ¡­


    Twenty, thirty, fifty, eighty, a hundred warriors!


    These warriors were ninth firmament Skyimmortals individually, but as the numbers increased, their combined power made them stronger.


    "Kill!"


    A hundred warriors roared as they formed a formation, delivering terrifying might.


    "Someone like Bear Mountain is able to defeat ten warriors. If he were to encounter a hundred of them working together, he would not be able to put up a resistance. He would only be able to barely survive thanks to his powerful body," thought Qin Yun. Although the hazy drizzle was still present, it had little effect on the formation made up of a hundred warriors. He condensed sword flashes through the misty rain and cast several sword arts, but failed to take them down.


    Ever since fifty warriors joined forces, Qin Yun had to use his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Hua!"


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out and swept the area. The hundred warriors could not help but fly back when struck, but while flying in retreat, their combined array formation remained intact. They would then attack again.


    "I have to crack a small area before I can crack the entire array." Qin Yun understood this point.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun pointed his finger into the distance.


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword seemed to fly out in a normal manner, but then it instantly turned and stabbed through one warrior''s body. A terrifying fluctuation instantly exploded out of the warrior''s body.


    "Boom!" The warrior''s body exploded, but it quickly imploded and shrank on itself. All the warrior''s energy was being decimated.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Decimate."


    The Misty Rain Sword immediately transformed into a blinding golden light as it slashed at the remaining warriors. With only ninety-nine warriors, they failed to form a formation, so they were immediately slaughtered by the Misty Rain Sword. The sight became one of sword flashes slicing across the warriors, vanquishing them one by one. In a blink of an eye, all the warriors were gone.


    Qin Yun then heaved a sigh of relief. "The combined attack of this array formation is indeed powerful. Demon King Ravenhorn and Daoist Xiahou must have suffered a setback here. However, the might of my Intrinsic Flying Sword should be stronger than them."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked up.


    A giant faintly materialized in the array formation.


    "Here it comes." Qin Yun looked at the towering giant appear. The giant held a huge hammer in each hand, with one hammer spanning a thousand feet, as tall as a mountain. Lightning bolts sparked across the two hammers, making them look dazzling.


    "Take this!" The towering giant bellowed as he smote down with a huge hammer.


    "Boom!"


    Upon seeing this, Qin Yun immediately summoned his Intrinsic Flying Sword to protect his body. A blurry halo enveloped his surroundings.


    Accompanied by a huge bang, the thousand-feet long hammer slammed into the barrier of light and was completely blocked.


    "Boom!" Another hammer came smiting down.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom¡­" The two hammers struck down relentlessly with terrifying might. However, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was best at protecting him. It managed to withstand dozens of strikes. Only then did the giant pull away and nod. His voice rumbled, "As an Essence Soul Earth Immortal, you are actually able to withstand my hammer strikes. Impressive. You have passed the second test. You can now take the third test." With that said, the giant turned and vanished.


    The array formation''s halo dissipated.


    Qin Yun looked at the palace hall before walking out.


    The plateau outside was empty with only the sound of the mountain winds howling.


    No one was waiting here as no one believed Qin Yun could clear it.


    "Senior Brother Sa Xu will spend a month in the third hall. I''ll take this time to enter cultivation seclusion. I came to this Lightning Beast Manor for seclusion after all." Qin Yun smiled. He flew in the direction of what his intelligence told him. That was where time flowed the fastest in the Lightning Beast Manor.

 519 Pinnacle Skyimmortal

    Chapter 519: Pinnacle Skyimmortal


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    There were many other buildings apart from the three main palaces on the mountainside.


    After all, when Chaos Lightning Beast Bai Xiao was still alive, Lightning Beast Manor was rather famous in the Three Realms. Many cultivators became followers of him; therefore, it was natural for Lightning Beast Manor to have many buildings. There were a few compounds where time flowed exceptionally fast. Clearly, many of the followers were willing to cultivate in them.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun gradually descended. On a plateau, there were a few compounds which had become a little dilapidated.


    "Boom!"


    A thick bolt of lightning emerged out of the mountain as it circled the mountain thrice.


    It had emerged quite close to Qin Yun, which also caused the flow of time to be 1200 times faster than the Effulgent Great World.


    "Ten years in the Effulgent Great World is 12,000 years in here. What I need most right now is to consolidate my insights well. Only with sufficiently deep foundations will I have a chance at attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit." Qin Yun waved his hand, immediately sweeping away the fallen leaves and dust on the ground. The leaves and the thick dust were carried away into a huge ball that landed far away, revealing paved granite. Even after all these years, it remained intact.


    Following that, Qin Yun sat cross-legged and looked down at the scenery below the mountain. Finally, he closed his eyes to begin meditation.


    He naturally had to be able to endure the solitude of cultivating alone for 12,000 years.


    ¡­


    About a month after Qin Yun entered cultivation, Sa Xu came out of the third main palace, having successfully cleared it.


    In the second month of Qin Yun''s cultivation, Fairy Mu and Ravenhorn headed for the third main palace, but they were thrown out shortly after entry!


    In the third month, Qin Yun made a trip to the third main palace in his spare time.


    In that array formation''s space, three figures stood on a cloud. One of them was a golden-robed man holding a gonfalon. Another was a black-robed elder standing with his hands behind his back, and finally, there was a stocky man holding two hammers. All three of them looked down at him while controlling the array formation.


    A bluish-white skinned lightning giant was brandishing his fist at Qin Yun. Each horrific punch carried lightning with it.


    Qin Yun, who had endured two hours in the third main hall, was forced into a defensive position as his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s might posed no threat to the lightning giant.


    He constantly resisted, but the assault of punches turned more powerful.


    "This Essence Soul sword immortal is truly powerful to be able to withstand the Great Guardian''s relentless assault."


    "His life-preservation abilities are pretty good."


    "It''s truly rare."


    The three figures discussed on the cloud.


    "However, what use is it if he can only preserve his life? Master wants to seek revenge! He wants to kill that Ancestral Fiend! He needs someone who''s good at killing. Life-preservation is only secondary."


    "Yes."


    "It''s over."


    As they were conversing, the lightning giant''s barrage of punches transformed into a gigantic palm that seemed to blot out the sky.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Qin Yun tried to direct his Intrinsic Flying Sword at the giant''s palm, but when it struck the palm''s bluish-white skin, all it did was tremble slightly. It continued enveloping Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun could only resort to protecting himself once more.


    "Whoosh." The gigantic palm grabbed the blurry barrier and threw it away.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun was thrown along with the blurry barrier. When his momentum had slowed enough to allow him to see his surroundings, he realized he was outside the third main palace. He was still flying away while maintaining the sword flash barrier.


    "I failed after all." Qin Yun stopped in midair and put away his Intrinsic Flying Sword. He looked at the third main palace and gave himself an assessment. "I''m indeed still very from from being able to clear the third main palace."


    With that said, he flew back towards his cultivation ground.


    ¡­


    On the fourth month since Qin Yun came to Lightning Beast Manor, he had actually cultivated for more than three centuries since time flowed at 1200 times faster! During this long period of time, Qin Yun studied the Great Dao contained within the Intrinsic Flying Sword and was constantly cultivating the five sword manuals he obtained from Green Touring Palace. He constantly gained new insights which slowly dwindled as time passed. But there came a day when he reached the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm!


    This was the bottleneck!


    This bottleneck¡­ was destined to trap Qin Yun for a long time!


    Too many immortals, fiends, and demons in the Three Realms had been stuck at this bottleneck.


    Even weaklings like ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals, powerful half-step Golden Immortals like Daoist Xiahou, Demon King Ravenhorn, Fairy Mu, or even more powerful ones that matched mighty figures like Yellow-robed Supremacy and Senior Brother Sa Xu were in fact trapped at the pinnacle Skyimmortal bottleneck.


    It could be said that he had accumulated enough.


    What followed went just as the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure mentioned. Qin Yun had to forge a new Sword Dao when creating his sword art. At the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm of insight, creating one''s moves¡­ would mostly turn out mediocre results. Occasionally, there could be very powerful ones which could be heaven-defying enough to match that of mighty figures. For instance, Yellow-robed Supremacy was constantly perfecting his physical Dharmic formulation to the point of matching mighty figures.


    "What I should do now is constantly ruminate and create moves that belong to me. There will come a day when I will gain enlightenment of a Great Dao I can call my own." Qin Yun understood this point.


    ******


    A year had passed since Qin Yun came to the Lightning Beast Manor. But in fact, his cultivation time was close to 1200 years.


    In one of the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests, in a remote palace yard in the Lightning Beast Manor.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and Daoist Xiahou sat cross-legged in a yard with twelve stone monoliths. Each of them recorded a Lightning Dharma Dharmic formulation.


    "Arise." Ancestral Master Zhang opened his eyes as twelve Lightning runes appeared around him. Each of the lightning runes were extremely mystical.


    "Oh?" Xiahou could not help but open his eyes when he sensed the stir. He was alarmed by what he saw. "What? He actually managed to cultivate the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning to perfection? Although time here flows faster, being 110 times faster than the Effulgent Great World, he has only cultivated for slightly more than a century in here. Yet, he was able to cultivate it to perfection?"


    The formation of the twelve perfected lightning runes immediately resonated with the twelve stone monoliths.


    Unadorned array flags flew out of the stone monolith as they flew towards Ancestral Master Zhang. There were a total of twelve array flags.


    "Retrieve." Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up as he waved his hand to put them away.


    "Those array flags¡­" Xiahou''s pupils constricted, but he stood up and smiled. "Congratulations, Junior Brother Zhang."


    Ancestral Master Zhang stood up as well. "I was only lucky."


    "The seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests can also be seen as seventy-two Lightning Dharma opportunities. These are the powerful Dharmic formulations which Bai Xiao gathered since his birth. Treasures are bestowed when any Dharmic formulation is cultivated to perfection," said Xiahou with a smile. "Although all of us know that, how difficult is it to cultivate any Dharmic formulation to its perfection? Junior Brother Zhang, I''m truly impressed by how perceptive you are."


    "If your Dharmic powers were to reach the ninth firmament Skyimmortal level, just these twelve array flags will award you with half-step Golden Immortal strength," praised Xiahou.


    Ancestral Master Zhang smiled. "To be honest, I have been studying the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array for millennia. This Capital Heaven Divine Lightning array stems from the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array, which allowed me to cultivate it to perfection so quickly."


    In fact¡­


    His Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma had elements of the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array fused into it, to the point of him creating the twelve Lightning Godfiends array formation!


    And during this round of cultivation, his cross-referenced knowledge had benefited him greatly. He was able to cultivate to perfection and obtain the twelve array flags.


    "Senior Brother Xiahou, I''ll continue attempting the other tests. With only ten years to spare, this spot has already taken one year of my time. Time is indeed scarce," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    "Junior Brother, go ahead," said Xiahou with a faint smile.


    As he watched Ancestral Master Zhang leave, Xiahou''s eyes gradually turned cold. "Those twelve array flags¡­ each one of them is in no way worth less than a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. The twelve flags form a Lightning Dharma array set. It''s extremely valuable."


    "If I could possess such array flags, my strength would only be stronger."


    "He''s only a sixth firmament Skyimmortal with very weak Dharmic powers. It shouldn''t be difficult to snatch it from him." Xiahou''s eyes were filled with coldness as he followed Ancestral Master Zhang out of the palace yard.

 520 Help

    Chapter 520: Help


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Lightning Beast Manor was the only cave abode in the Lightning world. It spanned an area several thousand kilometers across. There were lakes, rivers, and even the tallest mountain in the Lightning world inside the manor, showcasing how massive it was.


    Ancestral Master Zhang entered another palace which contained a tiny lake that was about a kilometer wide. By the bank, there was a sculpture in the form of a human with wings. There were a few areas on the sculpture carved with dense text and figures. It was another precious Lightning Dharma Dharmic formulation.


    "Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body? A Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at it carefully. "Unfortunately, even when cultivated to perfection, it would only give one a half-step Golden Immortal strength. The best Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulations in the Three Realms are at the Skyimmortal realm. If one cultivates those to perfection, it allows them to match that of mighty figures."


    He was a Green Touring Palace disciple after all. He had seen numerous Dharmic formulations and, although Bai Xiao had gathered all sorts of Dharmic formulations throughout his long life, the Lightning Dharma contained within the seventy-two tests were ones the Lightning Beast was most proud of before he made it available.


    Each formulation was rather extraordinary.


    Be it the Buddhists, any of the three Dao schools of thought, or itinerant cultivators, any powerful Lightning Dharma was obtained by him through different means.


    Indeed more than half his Dharmic formulations¡­ were things that even Green Touring Palace''s collection lacked.


    Green Touring Palace''s collection mainly consisted of Golden Immortal Dharmic formulations. As for those beneath that of the Golden Immortal level, only unique ones were selected! The seventy-two Lightning Dharma in the Lightning Beast Manor were mostly at the half-step Golden Immortal level, but all of them had their unique highlights. For many Skyimmortals, there was no chance of becoming a Golden Immortal. At times, some half-step Golden Immortal Dharmic formulations could raise their strength most substantially.


    "But among all the Lightning Dharma body-tempering formulations, this Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body gives one very impressive speed." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "It''s worth my time to cultivate it."


    Following that, he sat cross-legged and began cultivating.


    In the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests, one had to reach the initial success stage of the Lightning Dharma within before they could leave to head for the next test.


    As all these powerful Dharmic formulations incurred the jealousy of the heavens, the number of times they could be cultivated were limited! If one were to enter thoughtlessly and study all the seventy-two Lightning Dharma once without cultivating them, it would be a waste!


    Therefore, departure could only happen after attaining the initial success stage.


    Due to this rule, even talented people could only cover a small number of the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests even if they simply attained initial success! If they focused on a particular Dharmic formulation to attain perfection, they would be bestowed with treasures. But that would take up a lot of time! It was common for one to study a particular Dharmic formulation for the entire ten years and still not reach perfection.


    Ancestral Master Zhang had created the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma himself after all. His perceptivity was high to begin with, and he had an affinity with the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning Array, which allowed him to attain perfection in a year which translated to a hundred years of cultivation due to the flow of time.


    "Oh?" Not long after he began cultivating, Ancestral Master Zhang frowned as he turned his head.


    He saw a person walk in from the distant yard entrance. It was a bearded Daoist who was chuckling. "Junior Brother Zhang."


    "Oh, it''s Senior Brother Xiahou. What a coincidence. Senior Brother Xiahou, you chose this place too? You haven''t attained the phenomenal success stage yet for the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning Array, right?" Ancestral Master Zhang stood up, his heart tightening slightly.


    "Compared to you, my talent in the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning Array is indeed far inferior. I can always take more time to cultivate it when I leave." The bearded Daoist continued to advance.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly. "Then, I''ll continue my cultivation and not delay you any further."


    "There''s no rush." Daoist Xiahou grinned. "Junior Brother Zhang, do you know that back during the war of the three schools of thought, the Jade Void Palace, which has more stricter rules than us, had instances of master and disciple losing decorum over treasures?"


    "Yes, I have! During the war of the three schools of thought, there were many Jade Void Palace disciples who borrowed their master''s Connate Numinous treasure, but refused to return it thereafter! There were even a few who stole their master''s Connate Numinous treasures." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded, feeling more wary by the second. "Finally, many masters and disciples completely abandoned decorum with each other. Senior Brother Xiahou, why are you suddenly bringing this up?"


    Daoist Xiahou smiled. "Junior Brother Zhang, can''t you tell the reason why I''m mentioning this?"


    "Please tell me." Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression changed.


    "In fact, I came here because I have long cultivated the Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body Dharmic formulation," said Daoist Xiahou with a chuckle. "The reason why I bothered to come here again is to borrow those twelve array flags of yours. I will naturally return them to you once I attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. I wonder if it''s possible?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s expression turned grim.


    Returning it only after he became a Golden Immortal?


    He did believe that Xiahou would likely return them if he became a Golden Immortal, since the twelve array flags would amount to little help when that happened, but if Xiahou were to fail to become a Golden Immortal his entire life, wouldn''t that mean the flags would be his forever? This was outright robbery!


    "Senior Brother Xiahou, aren''t you going a little overboard?" shouted Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "There are tens of thousands of fellow Green Touring Palace disciples. There are many with ties of gratitude or resentment. As long as no one dies, Master will not be bothered. Besides, there were some who killed their fellow disciples and betrayed the Green Touring Palace for another school of thought. All I''m doing is borrowing your treasure. It''s nothing worth mentioning at all." Daoist Xiahou waved his hand as seven divine swords floated around him. "Junior Brother, since you appear unwilling, why don''t I help you."


    With that said, he suddenly attacked.


    Twelve Lightning Godfiends immediately flew out from behind Ancestral Master Zhang. Each Lightning Godfiend held an array flag.


    "I''m in trouble. I just entered this area and I can''t leave until I cultivate the Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body Dharmic formulation to the initial success stage. With him attacking me, there''s no way for me to leave¡­ I can''t even escape." Ancestral Master Zhang turned anxious and furious.


    "Boom!!!"


    Both sides clashed furiously.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world. Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun had left an avatar in his homeworld. However, the avatar was in cultivation seclusion most of the time and would not appear unless it was for something major.


    "Whoosh."


    A man in a Daoist robe and tall headdress appeared above Qin Manor. It was Ancestral Master Zhang''s true body! The one that had headed to the Lightning Beast Manor was his second Essence Soul. At that moment, Ancestral Master Zhang looked down and sent a voice transmission. "Qin Yun! Quick help me!"


    Qin Yun''s avatar instantly exited the chamber. "Senior Brother Zhang, what happened?"


    Lightning flashed high in the sky as Ancestral Master Zhang appeared next to Qin Yun''s avatar. He immediately said via voice transmission, "That Xiahou Yu wants to rob me of my Dharma treasure! My second Essence Soul is now trapped in the Emerald Leaf Lake. Senior Brother Sa, Fairy Mu, Senior Brother Ravenhorn are not from our Effulgent dominion. I have no way of asking them to help. Quickly seek them out to save me. You have to be fast. I can''t hold out much longer."


    The voice transmission was delivered instantly.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    Could senior brothers and sisters really be trusted? Anyone who studied the history of the Three Realms knew that it was a joke! There were many who had betrayed their sects to serve allegiance to another sect.


    There were even esteemed people in the Three Realms who followed the fiendish way! Just the snatching of treasures happened all the time in the Three Realms. For powerful Connate Numinous treasures, it was common for master and disciple to lose decorum.


    "Alright, leave it to me," answered Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Lightning Beast Manor.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged, opened his eyes. He had been cultivating for 1200 years, and his foundations were a lot more fortified than when he first arrived in the Lightning Beast Manor. His talent and perceptivity¡­ had improved quite significantly after 1200 years of cultivation. He even had a nascent form of his sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation in mind.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun immediately rode his Intrinsic Flying Sword and transformed into a stream of light. He charged straight for Emerald Leaf Lake.


    He never had the intention of getting Senior Brother Sa and company to help because all three of them were in other dominions. Although their real bodies were in Lightning Beast Manor, he had no means to look into the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests. As for searching one by one? That would be counting on luck and wasting time.


    It was better for him to help Senior Brother Zhang himself.


    "There is no knowing what is in a man''s heart. I never expected Xiahou to be such a person." Qin Yun was rather vexed.


    Swoosh.


    He plunged down from a mountain straight for Emerald Leaf Lake. With the speed of Qin Yun''s Sword Kinesis Flight, he was able to cover a few hundred kilometers very quickly.


    He soon saw the palace by Emerald Leaf Lake. A blob of light condensed out of thin air into a white-haired elder by the palace''s entrance. He looked at Qin Yun rushing for the entrance and immediately sent a voice transmission. "Esteemed guest, do not enter if you do not cultivate the Lightning Dharma. You will not be able to exit if you enter. You will only be transported out after the ten years are up."


    The Guardian Generals were constantly watching the visitors in secret.


    They were well aware that the Essence Soul sword immortal¡­ did not cultivate in the Lightning Dharma.


    As for the seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests, they were for those who cultivated in the Lightning Dharma. One had to cultivate to the initial success stage before they could leave. It was difficult even for ninth firmament Skyimmortals. If Qin Yun entered without knowing the Lightning Dharma, he would only be trapped because he could not master it.


    "I will be transported out only after the ten years are up?" Qin Yun hesitated for a moment.


    This was in conflict with his original plan.


    He had planned on cultivating the entire time in that spot where time flowed 1200 times faster.


    Of course, it was only a momentary hesitation before Qin Yun charged in.


    How could he falter when his good friend''s life was in peril? The thought was destroyed as soon as it arose in Qin Yun''s mind! He thought lowly of such despicable people.


    "Boom!" Qin Yun charged in with Sword Kinesis Flight, forming a terrifying blast.


    The moment he flew in, he saw Daoist Xiahou attacking Ancestral Master Zhang. The terrifying lightning divine swords surrounded Ancestral Master Zhang as they attacked. Ancestral Master Zhang could hardly withstand the blows and he had even consumed Immortal Pills as he powered an array formation with all his might.


    "Oh?" The both of them turned their heads.


    "What are you doing here?" Ancestral Master Zhang was gripped by anxiety. Although he was a little touched, he felt that Qin Yun was being rash for charging in.

 521 Divine Power Phenomenal Success

    Chapter 521: Divine Power Phenomenal Success


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ancestral Master Zhang knew very well that Qin Yun had been completely repressed by the half-step Ancestral Fiend Palatial Lord Kuishi back then! He only barely survived, so it was too risky for him to come help him.


    The safest method was to get Senior Brother Sa Xu, Fairy Mu, or Demon King Ravenhorn to help! Of course, that would take time, and it was unlikely he''d be able to last that long.


    "Qin Yun, do you plan on using your life-preservation sword arts to help me?" Ancestral Master Zhang sent an urgent voice transmission. "Back then, you barely fended off Kuishi! You might not be able to fend off Xiahou this time! There is no reason for you to take this risk for me."


    Xiahou Zhen shot a glance at Qin Yun who had rushed in as he scoffed. "Junior Brother Qin, you sure are overestimating your abilities."


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    Whoosh.


    A golden rope that had been floating around him immediately flew towards Qin Yun. It instantly turned taut and straight, giving the appearance of a bolt of lightning.


    "Whoosh~"


    A hazy drizzle rained down onto the palace yard.


    Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword cast the Misty Rain domain as its terrifying domain descended. Furthermore, the tiny droplets of sword flashes formed a hazy barrier.


    "Bam!"


    The golden rope stabbed into the misty rain barrier and failed to penetrate it, only leaving a tiny depression.


    The Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure''s domain was even more powerful than the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm! The drizzle flying swords¡­ were similarly even stronger than the Swords of Stellar Light. They could be used for both offense and defense. However, their strength was far inferior to the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s protective sword flash.


    "Oh? You actually managed to block my attack? This rainwater domain is that powerful at defense?" Xiahou was dressed in black robes and he was able to block the raindrops one inch from his clothes. However, he was still alarmed. "The repression is very strong as well. What a powerful rainwater domain."


    "Xiahou, I never imagined you to be this shameless," shouted Qin Yun as he waved his hand. "Go!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately tore through the void.


    What appeared ordinary had all its might converged.


    "As expected from two who come from the same world. Your relationship with Junior Brother Zhang sure is deep." Xiahou laughed loudly, showing he thought nothing of Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Pfft!"


    The Misty Rain Sword thrust itself at Xiahou in a flash, but he did not attempt to dodge it. However, his confident expression immediately fell.


    "Whoosh!" Layers of light suffused his black robes as the Misty Rain Sword stabbed through them, generating terrifying shockwaves from the collision.


    "Half-step Golden Immortal?" Xiahou glared at Qin Yun. "I really underestimated you. Take some of these!"


    The seven lightning divine swords which were attacking Ancestral Master Zhang immediately headed in Qin Yun''s direction.


    Qin Yun thought to himself when he saw this. "It''s said that Daoist Xiahou is cowardly and careful. He''s best at life preservation. I never expected myself to tear through his protective robes because of his carelessness."


    According to the intelligence he had, Daoist Xiahou''s best attempt at life-preservation was a double combination of a sword array and his protective robes! That made his defense extremely powerful.


    However, he was mediocre when it came to his offensive abilities.


    Of course, that was all from the intelligence that was easily gathered. The strength of immortals, Buddhas, demons and fiends would increase as they cultivated. Past intelligence could only be used as a reference in actual fighting, but it could not be treated as the complete truth! Perhaps they might have a breakthrough? Or perhaps they had an unknown move they were hiding?


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The seven lightning divine swords went forth with powerful might.


    The drizzle flying swords in front of Qin Yun formed a barrier of light but lasted only an instant under the seven lightning divine swords'' attack before shattering.


    "Be careful!" Ancestral Master Zhang sent a worried voice transmission.


    "You were able to withstand that Skyfiend Kuishi. I wonder if you can fend off my Little Immortal Binding Rope." Xiahou was carefree. When the seven lightning divine swords cracked Qin Yun''s protective barrier, a golden rope also flew over in a bid to bind Qin Yun.


    The Little Immortal Binding Rope was obviously good at capturing enemies.


    In the Three Realms, those with powerful life-preservation skills could not be killed, but they could be captured.


    "Puah Puah Puah¡­"


    Against the seven flying swords and golden rope, Qin Yun did not summon back his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Unfortunately, it would be too late by the time he did so.


    "Hmph!"


    Qin Yun snorted coldly.


    Blurry stellar light surfaced on his body, forming a stellar robe! Torrential stellar forces gathered on him as his might instantly strengthened greatly while he wore the stellar light robe. Furthermore, the region around Qin Yun formed a world in and of itself. Qin Yun came to Ancestral Master Zhang''s side simply by walking.


    No matter how the seven flying swords attacked him, they failed to crack the world formed around Qin Yun, much less speak of touching Qin Yun''s clothes.


    "Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, World Descent? The phenomenal success of the divine power?" Xiahou''s eyes widened instantly.


    The ancient demon Celestial Thearch had perfected the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes great divine power years ago. It was a famous protective great divine power in the Three Realms, something that even Golden Immortals and Buddhas couldn''t penetrate.


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes that Qin Yun cast had formed a world in and unto itself. That world had manifested itself visibly. If one wanted to injure Qin Yun, they had to destroy the world first, and then attempt to crack the robe! This was no doubt a manifestation of him gaining phenomenal success in the divine power¡­ After the ancient demons'' Celestial Thearch, no expert had managed to cultivate the divine power to perfection. It was already heaven-defying to cultivate it to the phenomenal success stage.


    After attaining phenomenal success in this great divine power, its might was even stronger than the protection that Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword rendered.


    This was also why he had the confidence to use his flying sword to attack his enemy.


    "Trap!"


    Suddenly, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a blooming lotus flower. It trapped Xiahou as it began to close in on itself.


    "Return!" Xiahou did not disregard the attack in any way. The seven lightning divine swords and the rope rapidly flew back. The swords formed a sword array and transformed into a terrifying bolt of lightning that smote the lotus flower. This move was used to trap enemies and prevented enemies from rushing out from within; however, it was weak to attacks from the outside.


    All sorts of moves had their various inclinations.


    For instance, protective sword flashes were used to protect one''s body. They were especially powerful for fending off external attacks.


    Trapping moves were used to trap. They were able to withstand attacks from within, but were much weaker when fending off attacks from the outside.


    "Bam!"


    The lightning sword array opened up a hole in the lotus flower which had completely closed in. Immediately, a figure rushed out of the lotus flower.


    The seven divine swords swirled around him as an array pattern appeared beneath Xiahou''s feet. The runic patterns of a Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe surfaced over his body as they contrasted beautifully with the array pattern at his feet. This complete form was his strongest defensive means.


    With such means, he dared to fight Golden Immortal mighty figures as a half-step Golden Immortal.


    For instance, before Qin Yun came to the Lightning Beast Manor, he only had his Intrinsic Flying Sword. In fact, his weakness was very obvious. If he were to attack with his Intrinsic Flying Sword, there was no way for him to defend himself! If he defended, there was no way to attack his enemy. It was difficult for him to get the best of both worlds! A true half-step Golden Immortal¡­ typically had the Dharmic powers of a ninth firmament Skyimmortal. They would have insights into powerful Dharma spells and they would be equipped with suitable supreme-grade Numinous treasures.


    These treasures would provide them with all sorts of means¡ªdefensive, offensive, escaping. They allowed them to trade blows with Golden Immortal mighty figures and, even if they were no match, they could escape. That was the reason why they were called half-step Golden Immortals.


    As for Qin Yun, he had cultivated in Lightning Beast Manor for 1200 years. His Sword Dao had improved tremendously and he had even cultivated his great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, to the phenomenal success stage! As such, he had fixed his weakness.


    "Nicely done Qin Yun. I never expected you to cultivate a great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes to the phenomenal success stage." Xiahou Zhen held the rope in one had as his feet rested on array patterns. Dressed in his Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe, the sword array around him was suspended. He looked at Qin Yun. "Even when mighty figures cultivate this divine power, they do not progress further after reaching the phenomenal success stage. Junior Brother Qin, I''m truly impressed by you."


    "But I disdain you. I was really blind up until now." Qin Yun sneered.


    "Hahaha, I did not plan on harming Junior Brother Zhang from the start. I only wanted to help put his twelve array flags under my custody." Xiahou shot a glance at Ancestral Master Zhang. "It is a tragedy, not a blessing, for a weakling to have such a powerful treasure!"


    Xiahou turned his head and flew out. "Junior Brother Qin, you are a sentimental person. You came in here even when you don''t cultivate in the Lightning Dharma, but as a senior brother, let me give you a word of advice. Even if I don''t snatch the twelve array flags from him, other experts will attempt do so. You might be able to protect him for now, but you will not be able to protect him forever."


    "There''s no need for you to find a reason to attack your junior brother," bellowed Qin Yun angrily.


    "Haha, you can say anything you want."


    As his voice continued resounding in the palace, Xiahou had already flown out.

 522 9000 Years Shortfall

    Chapter 522: 9000 Years Shortfall


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Daoist Xiahou put away his Dharma treasure only after he flew out of the palace. His expression turned grim.


    "Such a good opportunity was destroyed by Qin Yun." Xiahou turned to look at the palace yard. The opportunity was truly rare. Ancestral Master Zhang had just entered and had yet to cultivate the Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body. Without reaching initial success in it, he was unable to exit! Without any means to escape, he was meat on the chopping block.


    Unfortunately, Qin Yun had intervened!


    "A sword immortal like him is truly foolish to enter a place for the cultivation of the Lightning Dharma." Xiahou Zhen suddenly frowned. "However, how did his strength reach this level? Having the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal at the Essence Soul realm?"


    "An Essence Soul Earth Immortal is suited to cultivate divine powers. He has cultivated the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes of the ancient demon Celestial Thearch to the phenomenal success stage, clear evidence of his high perceptivity. However, how is his flying sword so powerful?" Xiahou squinted his eyes and ruminated. "A flying sword Dharma treasure is powered by Dharmic powers. The Dharmic powers he has as an Essence Soul Earth Immortal¡­ should be far inferior to a ninth firmament Skyimmortal."


    "With such weak Dharmic powers, he is able to power his flying sword to the level of a half-step Golden Immortal. If his Dharmic powers were to reach the ninth firmament Skyimmortal, how formidable would his flying sword be? It will definitely be able to suppress a Golden Immortal mighty figure."


    "It has to be a Connate Numinous treasure."


    Xiahou''s eyes lit up. "And it''s not any ordinary Connate Numinous treasure¡­ Either it''s an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure, or it''s a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure. That would explain why it possesses such strength despite only being powered by Essence Soul Dharmic powers."


    "What a waste of a Connate Numinous treasure, being placed in the hands of an Essence Soul." The covetous look in Xiahou''s eyes burned.


    Sword-shaped Connate Numinous treasures were always very valuable in the Three Realms.


    Not all Connate Numinous treasures were equal. The most ordinary ones were equivalent to more than a hundred supreme-grade Numinous treasures, but the powerful ones were priceless!


    Sword-shaped Connate Numinous treasures¡­ were extremely few in number. All of them were good for attacking. Even mighty figures had no means of buying one, no matter how much they might want it, because there were just too few or they were owned by someone else.


    For a powerful Connate Numinous Treasure, it was not impossible for even a master and disciple to lose decorum. It was common for one to betray their sect for another because powerful Connate Numinous treasures¡­ could not only greatly enhance one''s strength, but also give a disciple the strength to defeat their master. Occasions where mounts stole a Dao Ancestor''s Connate Numinous treasure and made a clean sweep of mighty figures had happened in the Three Realms. In addition, Connate Numinous treasures contained a complete Great Dao within them. By studying them carefully, the benefits would be tremendous.


    "A sword-shaped Connate Numinous treasure. If it was in my hands, it would be easy to exchange for one or two Connate Numinous treasures. With a Connate Numinous treasure in hand, I will be able to match mighty figures." Xiahou shook his head gently. "What a pity. His strength is in no way inferior to mine."


    "I have to make plans."


    Xiahou pondered as he flew off.


    ¡­


    In the Three Realms, it was a tragedy for a weakling to obtain a Connate Numinous treasure.


    For instance, in the Ancient Augury World, the Exalted Immortal Nine Raven was able to repress mighty figures with a Connate Numinous treasure, but ultimately, he still perished.


    However, Qin Yun had the great divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes. His cultivation in it had reached the phenomenal success stage.


    ******


    Inside the palace.


    Shock ran through Ancestral Master Zhang''s heart when Qin Yun managed to send Xiahou retreating. There was no doubt that Qin Yun had attained the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal.


    "Qin Yun." Ancestral Master Zhang dispelled his twelve Lightning Godfiends and the array flags.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, I doubt Xiahou will dare enter again." Qin Yun put away his flying sword as the might of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes converged.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun and said solemnly, "I really have to thank you for this. If not for you, I might not have just lost my twelve array flags, even my Lightning Dharma Great Seal could have been snatched by him."


    "Back when I sought your help, you have always helped me to the best of your abilities," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s different."


    Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head and sighed with a laugh. "I really never expected that you would cultivate to this stage. The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes is a great divine power of the ancient demon Celestial Thearch, but you have already cultivated it to the phenomenal success stage. That Xiahou''s attacks can''t even crack the world emitted by the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, much less speak of penetrating the robes themselves."


    The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes were a dual-layer protection. The emitted world was very powerful, even stronger than the robes'' protection.


    It was so powerful that¡­ even Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was not its match.


    "It''s also an opportunity. I was cultivating in seclusion in this Lightning Beast Manor. I only cultivated this great divine power to the phenomenal success stage recently," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Senior Brother Zhang, continue your cultivation. There''s no need to bother with me."


    Ancestral Master Zhang felt a little indebted as he said, "I''m really sorry to get you temporarily trapped in here. You will probably only be able to leave once the ten years are up."


    "I''ve already attempted all three tests. I''ll be waiting no matter where I go! It will be the same when cultivating here. Once the ten years are up, I''ll be able to get my share of the fruits," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded and did not continue.


    He knew¡­


    That although Qin Yun needed to wait no matter where he was, time flowed at different speeds in different places!


    In the Lightning Beast Manor, the spot where time was accelerated the most ran at a speed of 1200 times faster than the Effulgent Great World. And although this palace was not the slowest, it was rather ordinary. It was only about 200 times faster.


    To make him wait the remaining nine years, it would be equivalent to shortening Qin Yun''s cultivation by 9000 years.


    Qin Yun could have cultivated for 12,000 years, but now he was only able to cultivate for 3000 years because of him.


    However, Ancestral Master Zhang made it a point to remember this act of friendship.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun did not take a second look after glancing at the human-shaped sculpture''s Lightning Dharma.


    On the one hand, he long knew that the 72 Lightning Dharma in Lightning Beast Manor were extremely powerful. They typically required late-stage Skyimmortal Lightning Dharma foundations before they could be cultivated to the initial success stage in a short period of time. How was he to cultivate a Lightning Dharma to the late-stage Skyimmortal realm himself from nothing? Even if he used all the time he had left in Lightning Beast Manor, it was hopeless.


    On the other hand, he was a sword immortal! He had sword immortal Dharmic powers flowing through him which prevented him from switching to Lightning Dharma cultivation. It was impossible for him to master the Lightning Tribulation Diamond Body.


    "The time here is 200 times faster. In the remaining nine years, that will be 1800 years." Qin Yun closed his eyes. "I hope that I can cultivate my Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm to the phenomenal success stage in the remaining time. Back then, among the ancient demon Celestial Thearch''s two great divine powers, his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm was even more famous. It''s tremendously powerful when used against an enemy or for escaping."


    Enemies would be repressed the instant the domain was released.


    It was good at killing, trapping, and escaping. The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes was quite extreme as it only focused on protecting one''s body. As for the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, it was multi-faceted!


    "Qin Yun, Qin Yun." A voice suddenly sounded.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun, who was sitting on the grass beside the lake, opened his eyes. He had been cultivating for ten years inside the palace.


    "Senior Brother Zhang." Qin Yun looked at Ancestral Master Zhang, who was standing beside the sculpture, before standing up immediately.


    "I have cultivated this Lightning Dharma to the initial success stage. It''s time I leave," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "You aren''t continuing?" asked Qin Yun. "This Dharmic formulation is a Physical Establishing Sage Dharmic formulation. It''s quite good."


    "I spent ten years just working to achieve initial success, so it will probably take me thousands of years to achieve phenomenal success. There''s no hope for me to gain perfection." Ancestral Master Zhang shook his head. "This physical Dharmic formulation will only reach the half-step Golden Immortal realm even when perfection is attained. It''s not very useful for me."


    Qin Yun nodded in enlightenment.


    Ancestral Master Zhang added, "Qin Yun, I have something I need your help with."


    Qin Yun smiled. "What is it?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang waved his hand and the twelve array flags and the Lightning Dharma Great Seal appeared. He looked at Qin Yun and said, "These are my most important Dharma treasures. I wish for you to safeguard them for me temporarily. You can return them to me after we leave Lightning Beast Manor."


    "Safeguard them temporarily?" Qin Yun understood immediately.


    "The seventy-two Lightning Dharma tests are huge opportunities after all. The Capital Heaven Divine Lightning array aided me tremendously, and I have a nascent idea of the remaining ninth firmament Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I wish to take a look at the other Lightning Dharma, and perhaps I might reap greater harvests. But if I have these array flags and Lightning Dharma Great Seal with me, Xiahou might attack again."


    "Yes, I''m trapped in here and am unable to help you again." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Without the treasures on me, he''ll get nothing even if he gets the better of me," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile. "He can''t kill me even if it''s for the array flags. It''s a trifling matter to have conflict among fellow disciples in the Green Touring Palace since there are tens of thousands of them. But if one were to kill a fellow disciple¡­ that would be a grave sin! There would be Golden Immortal level senior brothers or sisters coming to administer justice. Therefore, it''s safest for me not to have the treasures on me."


    Qin Yun waved his hands and stored the treasures away. "Senior Brother Zhang, since you trust me, I''ll temporarily safeguard them for you."


    "Alright. Let''s meet again when we receive the Lightning Fruits," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a smile.


    "Alright. See you then." Qin Yun smiled as well.


    Ancestral Master Zhang turned and left.


    After Ancestral Master Zhang left the palace, Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the ground and closed his eyes before continuing his cultivation.

 523 3000 Years of Cultivation

    Chapter 523: 3000 Years of Cultivation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Cultivating became grueling once a bottleneck was reached.


    After becoming a pinnacle Skyimmortal, it also meant that all the required insights were already amassed. What followed was to amalgamate the various insights into a potpourri so as to gain insight into one''s own Dao. It was akin to alchemy. With all ingredients prepared, one would place them into a cauldron and aim to refine them into Immortal Pills! However, results could range from a cauldron of dregs, which represented the ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal, to that of a cauldron of Immortal Pills, which represented the formation of a Golden Immortal Dao fruit.


    There were also Spirit Pills, which represented half-step Golden Immortals. The best supreme-grade Spirit Pills were in no way inferior to Immortal Pills in certain aspects. They represented those who were able to match Golden Immortals.


    Cultivation was as such.


    Once one accumulated enough, the next step was to fuse it all together!


    Qin Yun had his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s Great Dao to guide him, giving him greater chances. Even so, he still felt like he was groping in the dark as he constantly advanced by trial and error.


    "It''s truly difficult to create a sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation, something I must do before I entertain any thoughts of attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit." Qin Yun opened his eyes. "However, I still have hope. At least I have found my bearings and have a nascent form of my Dharmic formulation."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes again as he began creating his own sword arts.


    Qin Yun rotated the cultivation of his Dharmic formulation, sword arts, and divine powers. He would switch whenever he experienced fatigue in one.


    ¡­


    After cultivating for slightly more than three hundred years in the Lightning Beast Manor, he had accumulated to the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm.


    After cultivating a thousand years, he gained phenomenal success in the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes!


    On the day that marked his cultivating sixteen hundred years¡ª


    "Boom!!!"


    Qin Yun, who sat cross-legged, suddenly emitted stellar light as he induced countless stellar forces to descend.


    The entire palace was instantly inundated in a sea of horrifying stellar forces. If Qin Yun wished, he could crush ninth firmament Skyimmortals to powder in an instant! Furthermore, he was still under the restrictions of the palace''s array formation. If he was allowed full reign to release his domain, the sea of stellar forces would span fifteen thousand kilometers.


    How big was an ordinary Small World? With such a great divine power, he probably could instantly wipe out all life on a Small World in the blink of an eye. His ability to destroy had indeed become terrifying.


    It was no wonder that there were certain experts in the Three Realms who viewed mortals as ants. It was true that they could vanquish countless lives without a thought. They only held back for fear of the grave sins that came with such an action.


    360 stars floated inside the palace, completely filling it with a sea of stellar forces. Every star appeared like a metallic sphere with clear patterns engraved on its surface. These stars were of different sizes. The small ones were like mustard seeds, while the large ones spanned five hundred kilometers across.


    Combining the 360 stars¡­when facing an enemy was a lot more powerful than relying solely on stellar force repression.


    "Transform." With a thought, the 360 stars immediately transformed into 360 Stellar Flying Swords.


    Unlike the previous flying swords which were the condensation of starlight, the flying swords now appeared to be tempered from strange metals.


    "I''ve finally mastered it."


    "I have reached phenomenal success in this Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm great divine power." Qin Yun looked at the Stellar Flying Swords hovering around him and could not help but wear a gleeful expression. "If I had mastered this previously, it would not have been so easy for that Xiahou to escape."


    For instance, there were Essence Soul Earth Immortals and Buddhist Arhats in the Three Realms who cultivated great divine powers to perfection, allowing their strength to match that of mighty figures. Of course, the great divine powers they cultivated in were slightly inferior to the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes. If one perfected these two great divine powers of the ancient demon Celestial Thearch, they would be considered top existences even among Golden Immortals.


    But just the phenomenal success stage alone was enough for one to reign supreme in the Three Realms.


    "Oh? Another great divine power?"


    "He has cultivated both the great divine powers of the ancient demon Celestial Thearch?"


    Far away in midair, a black-robed elder, a golden-robed elder holding a gonfalon, and a stocky man were overlooking the area. They watched Qin Yun cast his divine powers by the side of the lake in the palace. As Guardian Generals, they were constantly monitoring the guests.


    "As an Essence Soul sword immortal, he has cultivated the two great divine powers to this stage. In terms of protection and domains, they are at the mighty figure level," exclaimed the stocky man. "It''s only his means of killing enemies that are on the weaker side."


    "His flying sword should be a Connate Numinous treasure. Unfortunately, his Dharmic powers are too weak. He naturally lacks the strength," said the golden-robed man. "As for the great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, the ancient demon Celestial Thearch had created it to repress and trap his enemies. As for killing enemies? Since his strength is a little weaker, the might of his flying sword can only be considered at the half-step Golden Immortal level."


    "By the way, from the news we received from Brother Tiger previously, it is said that this Qin Yun has only cultivated for a hundred plus years before he came to the Lightning Beast Manor?" asked the black-robed elder.


    The golden-robed man nodded. "Brother Tiger is now under a Bodhisattva. There is definitely no mistake in his intelligence."


    The Chaos Lightning Beast, Bai Xiao, had arranged everything a long time ago.


    Even with him dead, he was able to have things run according to his plan thanks to his group of Guardian Generals. They were even able to learn detailed information of the Three Realms.


    "To have such strength after a hundred plus years. Furthermore, he is one that has forged a new sword immortal lineage." The black-robed elder looked down and sighed. "Although time is accelerated in our Lightning Beast Manor, allowing him to cultivate for more than a thousand years, our Lightning Beast Manor is not some sacred land for cultivation. It''s far inferior to the Dao Ancestor''s Green Touring Palace. He is here cultivating arduously and even attained phenomenal success of the two great divine powers. His talent and perceptivity¡­ probably ranks first among the six who came."


    "Yes." The stocky man and the golden-robed man nodded in agreement.


    Such perceptivity was indeed very terrifying.


    After all, following the destruction of the ancient demon Heavenly Courts, later generations could only attain phenomenal success in the two great divine powers at the very most.


    Qin Yun had reached such a pinnacle state in a short amount of time.


    "In a few thousand years, and at most tens of thousands of years, his strength will likely match that of a mighty figure," said the black-robed elder. "If he attains a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, becoming a peerless sword immortal that forges a new sword immortal lineage, he would have a chance of completing Master''s last wish."


    "Sword immortals'' ability to destroy all Dharma with a single sword is indeed powerful, but it''s just too difficult to attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit." The golden-robed man said. "That Daoist Sa Xu has created his own Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma which allows him to match a mighty figure. If he attains a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, and brings his Lightning Dharma to that of the Golden Immortal level, I believe he also has a chance to complete Master''s last wish."


    "It''s different," said the stocky man immediately. "Sword immortals are invincible when it comes to killing. Although their bodies are weaker, they are truly powerful when it comes to killing their enemies. The two sword immortal mighty figures from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage have even killed Ancestral Fiends. As for Lightning Dharma? There are several mighty figures in the Three Realms who cultivate in the Lightning Dharma, but how many of them are as strong as the two sword immortals from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage? The Lightning Dharma can be cultivated to hone one''s body, one''s escaping abilities, and the killing of enemies. As it''s too multi-faceted, it''s ultimately slightly weaker than sword immortals when it comes to killing enemies."


    The golden-robed man did not retort.


    It was a fact.


    However, sword immortals were uniformly inferior to those who cultivated in the Lightning Dharma when it came to their bodies and escaping arts.


    "In summary, the two of them are pretty good," praised the black-robed elder. "Furthermore, I like this Qin Yun. He had chosen to cultivate in the spot which had time flowing at an accelerated pace of 1200 times. Clearly, he was prepared to seclude himself, but in order to help his good friend, Daoist Divine Firmament, he went straight into a Lightning Dharma cultivation ground despite not cultivating in the Lightning Dharma. I even warned him against it, but he entered while ignoring me. As such he ended up with a 9000 years shortfall. For a young man who has cultivated for a hundred plus years, he paid no attention to the shortfall of 9000 years¡­ Clearly, he deeply values his relationships."


    "I like him too." The golden-robed man smiled with a nod. "According to the intelligence, he paid no heed in risking his life to save his wife and daughter."


    The stocky man nodded as well as he looked down. "Back then, Master joined in the war between the Dao and Fiends to avenge his good friend. Despite knowing how dangerous it was, with the possibility of losing his life, he still set up the Lightning Beast Manor and forged ahead after arranging everything! He never returned."


    The black-robed nodded. "The Ancestral Fiend was truly ruthless. He pulverized master''s soul, leaving only a wisp of his True Spirit for reincarnation. Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were unable to receive him. Over all these years, Master has forever lost himself in the cycle of Samsara."


    "Master had made preparations when he decided on his plan of action," said the black-robed elder. "Master said that the person was his best friend, the most important person in his life. He stopped at nothing to exact revenge."


    "I wish we could wait for the day when Master is able to exact his revenge," said the stocky man.


    The three Guardian Generals fell silent as they watched the cultivating Qin Yun before leaving one after another.


    ¡­


    Years passed one by one.


    Qin Yun had cultivated in the Lightning Beast Manor for a total of three thousand years.

 524 Splitting the Lightning Fruits

    Chapter 524: Splitting the Lightning Fruits


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In one of the seventy-two Lightning Dharma testing grounds, Fairy Mu sat cross-legged. Her mind was playing out a series of melee combat arts as she thought through one move after another.


    Hum!


    Suddenly, there was a fluctuation that reached every corner of Lightning Beast Manor.


    Fairy Mu opened her eyes. "The ten years are up?"


    "What a pity. I didn''t have to time to cultivate it to perfection before the time limit was up." Fairy Mu looked at the wall to the palace. There were a large number of patterns on it. It depicted an expert with three heads and six arms showcasing numerous melee combat moves. The wall was engraved personally by an expert who had cultivated the technique to perfection. It had an inundating intent which prompted Fairy Mu to spend most of her time on it.


    Following the fluctuation, a force descended.


    Sou!


    Fairy Mu was directly transported away.


    ¡­


    On the plateau in front of the third main palace, Xiahou was sitting cross-legged as well. He could not help but open his eyes when he felt the fluctuation that permeated the Lightning Beast Manor. He smiled. "The ten years are up. Thankfully, I managed to clear the second main palace after expending some treasures. My results are in no way worse than Junior Sister Mu or Ravenhorn''s."


    "Unfortunately, the treasures Junior Brother Zhang won are in Qin Yun''s charge!" Xiahou recalled his second meeting with Ancestral Master Zhang, who had acted very carefreely. Ancestral Master Zhang claimed to not have any treasures on him and that he was free to snatch things away from him.


    "Qin Yun was willing to end up stuck in that palace for more than a thousand years to help him. And he even got Qin Yun to safeguard his most important treasures. The two of them really trust each other," thought Xiahou. "That''s not right. Perhaps he doesn''t trust Qin Yun that much. After all, he had no other choice. The treasures would only end up in my hands if he kept them on him. So, he had no choice but to hand them to Qin Yun? That fool Qin Yun is probably touched by Junior Brother Zhang''s actions."


    Xiahou scoffed.


    The long passage of time had made him wary of his fellow disciples. He would not easily trust any of them.


    "Whoosh." A force descended and transported him away.


    ¡­


    Immortal Sa Xu, Ancestral Master Zhang, Fairy Mu, Daoist Xiahou, Demon King Ravenhorn, and Qin Yun were transported out once the ten years were up.


    At the peak of a lofty mountain in Lightning Beast Manor, there was a gorgeous immortal palace. Qin Yun and company had been transported outside it.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun did not resist when he felt his body being transported. He felt that the scenery had changed in front of his eyes before he found himself on the summit. He saw the palace and, in its backyard, the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree was most dazzling. This Heaven Earth Spirit Root¡­ was even taller than the palace. It had a thick trunk, luxuriant leaves, and fruits that swayed with the wind.


    There were lightning bolts around the fruit tree, as though the tree was a manifestation of lightning itself.


    The massively vast aura inundated them. It exuded antiquity.


    "Connate Lightning Fruit Tree," marveled Qin Yun.


    By the side, Sa Xu, Fairy Mu, Xiahou, Ravenhorn, and Ancestral Master Zhang were looking at the gigantic Connate Lightning Fruit Tree as well. Being able to look at it up close, they could clearly see each leaf, a sight that sent reverberations through their hearts.


    Every Heaven Earth Spirit Root¡­ was priceless. It could not even be exchanged for ten Connate Numinous treasures. They became possessions of others in the earliest periods of the Three Realms.


    With just one of them, it was equivalent to having a money tree that constantly bore fruits. With it, one would be considered a ''magnate'' among mighty figures in the Three Realms. As such, they could make friends across the Three Realms and exchange for even more life-preservation treasures. Hence, their life-preservation abilities were typically above those of most mighty figures. As long as one did not actively seek death, death typically eluded them.


    Unfortunately, Bai Xiao had taken the initiative to join the war between the Daoists and Fiends! He even thought of ways to deal with his nemesis.


    However, it was a war! Many terrifying existences were involved in it. For instance, the Ancestral Dragon, the Western Paradise''s lord, Amitabha, Mighty God Torch Dragon had all taken part. The Three Pure Ones, the Buddhist Ancestor, Goddess N¨¹wa, and the Ancestral Fiends were also watching constantly. They had even entered the battlefields numerous times! The flames of war burned everywhere in the Three Realms¡­ As the Chaos Lightning Beast was not a Daoist or Buddhist, nor was he a fiend, there was no need for him to join the battle. If he hid in his Lightning world, the calamity would have easily passed him by while he secluded himself.


    But after his good friend perished, he joined the war. He aided the resistance in secret, and had indeed caused the fiends to suffer quite significant losses. Unfortunately, he failed to kill his enemy despite the grand scheme he initiated.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two figures materialized. One was a black-robed elder and the other was a stocky man.


    "Guests, the ten years are up." The black-robed smiled at Qin Yun and company.


    "It''s time to split the Lightning Fruits." Xiahou waited in anticipation. Sa Xu, Fairy Mu, and the rest also turned eager in anticipation.


    Qin Yun was also curious how many Lightning Fruits each of the six would receive. How many would he receive?


    "Before we split the Lightning Fruits, I will repeat it again." The black-robed elder''s expression turned solemn. "Acquiring treasures from my master causes you to be bound by karma! Once you have the strength of a top Golden Immortal, you have to kill Ancestral Fiend Moxiu."


    Qin Yun and company had long known of this fact.


    "Ancestral Fiend Moxiu¡­ was an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage." Qin Yun sighed. "His combat strength in a head-on clash is that of an ordinary Ancestral Fiend, but his true prowess lies in bewitching the heart. His means are unfathomably strange."


    There were many lineages among fiends. The Mental Demon lineage was one of the extremely special ones. Bai Xiao had set up a grand scheme based on the trends of the war, only to eventually fall to the powers of the Mental Demon.


    "Alright, it''s time to hand out the Lightning Fruits to everyone." The black-robed elder looked at the stocky man.


    The stocky man extended his hands as a tray appeared out of thin air. There were three fruits on it, each emitting a strong fragrance. Just catching a whiff of the fragrance from afar made Qin Yun feel like he had gained a lot of insight into the way lightning worked. Qin Yun also knew that his foundations in the Lightning Dharma were the weakest, even weaker than the Lightning Dharma that mortals cultivated in. Therefore, even a Connate Lightning Fruit''s fragrance could help him. Ancestral Master Zhang had long reached the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm, so he needed to actually consume one to benefit from it. Just catching a whiff of the fragrance was only useful for those at realms below Skyimmortals.


    Qin Yun looked at the fruits carefully. The Connate Lightning Fruits resembled pears. Beneath the skin were massive amounts of lightning that made the skin appear translucent.


    "Three Lightning Fruits. That''s the lowest reward," mumbled Xiahou.


    As for the stocky man, he walked in front of Xiahou with tray in hand and passed it over to Xiahou.


    Xiahou''s expression froze before he received it with a smile. "With Junior Sister Mu and Senior Brother Sa here, I can only receive three."


    The stocky man came in front of Ravenhorn and extended both his hands. Again, another tray appeared. There were also three Lightning Fruits and a yellow-skinned calabash.


    "Haha, Xiahou. Although I have only received three fruits, I have an additional calabash treasure!" Ravenhorn received the rewards with a smile. He quickly put away the Connate Lightning Fruits and pulled open the calabash''s stopper to check it.


    "What treasures are in there?" asked Xiahou immediately.


    Ravenhorn stuffed the stopper back in after his inspection. He shot a glance at Xiahou. "I''m not telling you. All you need to know is that I have received more treasures than you."


    Xiahou curled his lips and stopped pressing.


    Following that, the stocky man came in front of Ancestral Master Zhang. Qin Yun, Sa Xu and Fairy Mu were also watching.


    There was the same tray containing three Lightning Fruits and a yellow-skinned calabash.


    "Haha, Xiahou. Junior Brother Zhang has more than you as well." Ravenhorn laughed loudly.


    Xiahou''s expression turned nasty but he remained silent.


    Ancestral Master Zhang was the weakest person present, having only cleared the first main palace. Xiahou felt somewhat embarrassed.


    The stocky man came in front of Fairy Mu, and on the tray he handed her were four Lightning Fruits and a calabash.


    "Oh?" Xiahou, Ravenhorn, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Fairy Mu looked curiously at Qin Yun.


    The splitting of the Lightning Fruits¡­


    The fruits were handed out in ascending order.


    Everyone found it normal that Senior Brother Sa Xu was last, but why was Qin Yun ranked ahead of Fairy Mu?


    Fairy Mu received it calmly, but her eyes lit up when she inspected the treasures within.


    Finally, the stocky man and the black-robed elder walked in front of both Qin Yun and Sa Xu respectively.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    On the trays the stocky man and the black-robed handed over, each tray had seven Lightning Fruits and a yellow-skinned calabash.

 525 Senior Brother Sa Xu

    Chapter 525: Senior Brother Sa Xu


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was quite astonished seeing the seven Lightning Fruits and yellow-skinned calabash on the tray in front of him.


    "The number of Lightning Fruits I received is the same as Senior Brother Sa? Although I cleared the second main palace, that would only make me equivalent to Senior Sister Mu and Senior Brother Ravenhorn. Even if I count achieving mastery over my two great divine powers to the phenomenal success stage¡­ I''m still inferior to Senior Brother Sa." Qin Yun knew this very well. He never expected to be handed so many Lightning Fruits.


    Daoist Xiahou, Demon King Ravenhorn, Fairy Mu, and Ancestral Master Zhang were somewhat dumbfounded. They had only guessed that Qin Yun might receive four or five fruits by being ranked after Fairy Mu. Who knew¡­ that he would receive a prize identical to Senior Brother Sa''s! They had both received seven Lightning Fruits and a yellow-skinned calabash.


    The corner of Sa Xu''s mouth suffused a smile as he gave Qin Yun a deep, meaningful look.


    "Keep it well," said the stocky man with a smile as he looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun extended his hand to receive it.


    Sa Xu also took the tray from the black-robed elder''s hands.


    After putting away the Connate Lightning Fruits, Qin Yun opened the stopper of the yellow-skinned calabash. He infused his Dharmic powers into it, but even with his level of composure, his eyes still lit up.


    The stocky man and the black-robed elder watched this scene with smiles. How were the rewards handed out? What treasures were stored inside each yellow-skinned calabash? Both of them obviously knew.


    "I never expected Junior Brother Qin to have hidden his strength so well. It appears like the intelligence the outside world has on you is ridiculously wrong," said Ravenhorn with a smile. "You actually managed to receive the same number of Lightning Fruits as Senior Brother Sa."


    Fairy Mu also looked curiously at Qin Yun.


    "That shouldn''t have happened."


    Xiahou could not help but stare at the black-robed elder and stocky man, bellowing, "Wasn''t it said clearly that clearing the three main palaces determines how many Lightning Fruits are received!? That Qin Yun is hiding his strength, but regardless, he only has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. His level is not much different than mine. Why would I only get three while he gets seven Lightning Fruits and a calabash of treasures?"


    Ravenhorn, Fairy Mu, and company also looked at the two Guardian Generals expectantly.


    "The way we allocate is naturally very fair," said the black-robed elder with a smile.


    "Fair? He''s a half-step Golden Immortal. What did he do to deserve being Senior Brother Sa''s equal?" questioned Xiahou.


    Sa Xu took in everything from the side, but he did not say a word.


    "We are Guardian Generals. How we allocate the Lightning Fruits is based on Master''s instructions. We definitely do not do it without reason," said the black-robed elder with a smile. However, the stocky man grunted angrily. "Daoist, if you are so unwilling to accept it, you can return the three Lightning Fruits. If you refuse the Lightning Fruits, there will be no need for you to be tied by karma."


    Xiahou''s expression sank as he fell silent.


    Return the Lightning Fruits?


    How was that possible?


    He did not care about the karmic implications. Killing Ancestral Fiend Moxiu was something he needed to do only when he had the strength of a pinnacle Golden Immortal. He would be extremely satisfied just by being able to gain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit and become an ordinary Golden Immortal. As for a pinnacle Golden Immortal? Which one of them wasn''t a terrifying existence that sent tremors through the Three Realms? It was a very distant possibility for him.


    Even for Sa Xu, becoming a pinnacle Golden Immortal required him to attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit and create the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma at the Golden Immortal level! The difficulty of accomplishing both was naturally very high.


    "Xiahou, how do you know Qin Yun has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal?" Ravenhorn asked out of curiosity.


    "He obviously knows." Qin Yun finally spoke out.


    Fairy Mu, Sa Xu and Ancestral Master Zhang looked over.


    "It''s because Senior Brother Zhang received a powerful Dharma treasure in Lightning Beast Manor. Xiahou turned greedy and attacked Senior Brother in a bid to rob him of his treasure," said Qin Yun with a sneer. "If I had arrived late, he might have really succeeded."


    The look in Fairy Mu''s eyes turned cold as she turned towards Xiahou and said icily, "Xiahou, you actually dared attack a fellow disciple?"


    "I didn''t attempt to snatch his treasures. I only had some conflict with Junior Brother Zhang. I was only teaching him a lesson," said Xiahou with his lips curled. "Why? Is punishing a junior brother a major problem? Don''t our fellow disciples in Green Touring Palace¡­ know my character?"


    "That''s because you hide well," said Qin Yun coldly. "It''s only through this that I saw your true colors."


    "Junior Brother Qin, don''t you slander me. Did I get Junior Brother Zhang''s treasure? Did I injure him?" questioned Xiahou in a retort.


    Qin Yun scoffed coldly and did not continue the debate.


    Debating him was pointless.


    Ravenhorn tried to reconcile them when he heard the exchange. "Alright, there must have been some misunderstanding. Although Xiahou is a little greedy, he doesn''t have such a bad reputation."


    "He had schemed against Junior Brother Hong before," said Sa Xu suddenly.


    "Junior Brother Hong?"


    Xiahou glared immediately as he said, "Senior Brother Sa, you are maligning me. I had gone adventuring with Junior Brother Hong back then. We agreed that the treasures one found were theirs to keep. He later regretted it when I obtained my Little Immortal Binding Rope, and insisted on sharing the spoils!"


    "Senior Brother Sa, it''s common for there to be such minor conflicts," said Ravenhorn.


    At the half-step Golden Immortal level, all their actions resulted in great karmic implications. To infer the past was very difficult even through divination.


    Besides, people would deliberately hide certain sinister matters from the heavens! It would muddy out the karma!


    Unless one was a real Golden Immortal, capable of divine inference. If not, it was difficult to figure out what they had done in the past.


    The stronger one was¡­


    The more karma implications there were with every action.


    "I believe Junior Brother Hong." Sa Xu looked at Xiahou. "I believe Junior Brother Qin as well."


    "Senior Brother Sa, don''t stain my innocence," said Xiahou Zhen with a bitter face.


    "Alright, Guests!"


    The black-robed elder smiled. "The Lightning Fruits have been given. It''s time to send the six of you out."


    Qin Yun, Ancestral Master Zhang, Fairy Mu, Daoist Xiahou, Demon King Ravenhorn, and Senior Brother Sa Xu stopped speaking.


    "Whoosh."


    A force descended and enveloped the six before transporting them away, leaving only the two Guardian Generals, the black-robed elder, and stocky man on the mountaintop.


    "This Green Touring Palace is the Dao residence of the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, one of the Daoist Three Pure Ones. Disciples from Green Touring Palace do have internal strifes," said the stocky man with a laugh. "However, that Xiahou even has the nerve to ask why we allocated it that way? If not for Master''s instructions that the minimum number is three, I wouldn''t even wish to hand him one Lightning Fruit."


    "Master liked people who are loyal. He disdains such vile characters," said the black-robed elder. "However, the minimum of three fruits still needs to be given. He can forget about the other treasures though."


    "I really felt a little unwilling giving away those treasures in the calabash," the stocky man could not help but say. "We gave it to Qin Yun just like that."


    "He and Immortal Sa Xu have great potential. But didn''t we say earlier that we felt Qin Yun was slightly better? He is a sword immortal after all. Those who cultivate in the Lightning Dharma are still slightly weaker when it comes to killing. Furthermore, Qin Yun created his own sword immortal lineage. If he becomes a Golden Immortal sword immortal, he will likely be even stronger than the two sword immortals from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage," said the black-robed elder. "At that level, he will definitely be able to avenge Master."


    "I wonder how long it will take for that day to come," said the stocky man.


    Following that, the both of them dissipated.


    The next time cultivators entered would be at least 81,000 years later. It was even common that it would be hundreds of thousands of years later.


    ¡­


    Above the vast lands of the Lightning world.


    Whoosh~


    Qin Yun and company were directly transported out as they immediately caught sight of the distant Lightning Beast Manor.


    "We are out," said Ravenhorn with a laugh. "It''s time to leave."


    However, Sa Xu waved his hand.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Thirty-six array flags hovered in midair as terrifying lightning was born out of the formation.


    "Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma Array?" Xiahou, Ravenhorn, Fairy Mu, Qin Yun, and Ancestral Master Zhang were alarmed.


    Sa Xu had created the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma himself. Furthermore, he had sought the help of a mighty figure to refine such an array flag set! Each of the thirty-six array flags were in no way inferior to supreme-grade Numinous treasures. Although this set was no Connate Numinous treasure, it suited Sa Xu the most. With it in his hands, he was able to perfectly showcase his strength, a strength that belonged to a mighty figure.


    "Xiahou, hand over all the treasures on you." Sa Xu said coldly towards Xiahou.


    "Senior Brother Sa, why are you doing this?" Xiahou wore his Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe and his feet rested on array patterns. Seven divine swords floated around him as he said loudly, "Do you really believe Qin Yun''s one-sided account?"


    "Xiahou, you dare do it, but do not dare to admit to it?" Ancestral Master Zhang shouted as well.


    "It''s their one-sided story!" Xiahou shouted sharply. "Senior Brother Sa, don''t believe them!"


    "What happened to Junior Brother Hong was the first time it happened. This is the second time," said Sa Xu lightly. "I believe Junior Brother Hong, as well as Junior Brother Qin!"


    "Sa Xu!"


    Xiahou''s expression turned nasty as he hollered, "It''s no wonder the entire Green Touring Palace describes you as arrogant, someone who acts arbitrarily¡­ It''s what''s precisely happening now. You are taking action before you even figure out the situation?"


    "I''ll naturally do whatever I wish to do." Sa Xu looked at Xiahou. "Why, do you plan on resisting?"


    "Hmph! Sa Xu!" Xiahou''s face turned hideous. "I''m weaker than you, but there''s no way you can stop me from leaving."


    "You can give it a try."


    As Sa Xu spoke, he waved his hands as the thirty-six Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma array flags began moving, focusing terrifying lightning together.


    "You madman!" Xiahou roared as the array patterns at his feet spun. The seven lightning divine swords swirled around him as he instantly transformed into a bolt of lightning. He shot towards the clouds in a bid to escape the Lightning world.

 526 Tumultuous River

    Chapter 526: Tumultuous River


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Hmph!"


    Sa Xu snorted coldly as the terrifying lightning gathered from the thirty-six Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma array flags struck out instantly with terrifying might, blasting the seven lightning divine swords surrounding Xiahou.


    The seven lightning divine swords around the escaping Xiahou quaked as their speeds were reduced drastically.


    As he stood on his array pattern, Xiahou injected all his strength into the seven swords to resist the attack. Although the swords trembled, he emerged from the attack unharmed.


    "Sa Xu, you can''t do a thing to me!" roared Xiahou.


    Boom!


    He flew towards the clouds above him once again.


    "Oh?" Sa Xu frowned slightly, but he continued controlling the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma Array. Instantly, numerous lightning bolts smote down, giving Xiahou a hard time as he had to fly through the lightning, but he still managed to withstand the attacks.


    "Although this Xiahou''s defensive means are inferior to my great divine power, they are still rather powerful. Ordinary mighty figures¡­ will not be able to take him down in a short amount of time." Qin Yun could tell as well.


    As Sa Xu flew in chase, he brought with him the thirty-six array flags. Noticing that he was unable to do much to Xiahou, his expression turned cold. "Internal Heavenly Constellation! Nine Revolutions!"


    The thirty-six array flags revolved slowly as bolts of ring-shaped lightning came crashing down to envelop Xiahou.


    After the ring-shaped lightning bolts enveloped Xiahou, they immediately contracted before exploding once they reached an extremum.


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    Rings of lightning descended, contracting and exploding.


    The explosive lightning contracted and exploded once again when chained by the ring-shaped lightning. It served to make the explosion a lot more powerful.


    It happened again and again¡­


    The explosive might increased in strength.


    When the ninth ring-shaped lightning descended, chaining together with the massive amounts of remnant lightning, the might of the contracting explosion sent the seven lightning divine swords flying. However, the remnant shockwave was fully withstood by the Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe. After withstanding the blast, Xiahou summoned the seven lightning divine swords to surround him once again with a thought.


    "Hahaha." Xiahou laughed hideously. "Sa Xu, isn''t your Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma''s most powerful attack the Internal Heavenly Constellation Nine Revolutions? But it still can''t harm me all the same. What other means do you have?"


    Sa Xu''s expression was ice cold as he continued powering the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma Array, casting down ring-shaped Lightning Dharma again and again.


    "It''s useless, Sa Xu. I admit you are powerful. I can''t put up a fight in front of you, I can only barely withstand your attacks, but my life-preservation skills are not something to scoff at!" Xiahou continued flying upwards as he spoke. Even though his flying speed was slower due to the lightning strikes, he was still able to continue flying.


    Ravenhorn and Fairy Mu were only watching this from the side.


    "Senior Brother Sa won''t be able to do a thing once Xiahou flees the Lightning world." Ravenhorn shook his head. "In fact, it''s still uncertain who''s right or wrong. Why attack a fellow disciple?"


    Qin Yun watched the scene as well.


    Experts in the Three Realms valued life-preservation means greatly.


    The stronger one''s life-preservation means were, the longer they could live! After all, most cultivators were not of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage. Their bodies were slightly weaker and unable to withstand the mighty blows of experts at their level! If they made one mistake, it was very likely they would perish there and then.


    This was even true for for sword immortals. An example was the two sword immortals from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage that had a different Sword Dao from Qin Yun. Their Sword Dao was not the best when it came to life-preservation, so they would seek out Connate Numinous treasure to protect themselves. Clearly, even they valued life-preservation.


    "It looks like he can''t do much," Ancestral Master Zhang sent Qin Yun a voice transmission. "Xiahou is a half-step Golden Immortal after all, and he has good life-preservation means. Ordinary mighty figures can''t do a thing to him. Besides, he has a wide circle of friends in Green Touring Palace. Outsiders might not be able to enter the Lightning world¡­ but once he escapes, his friends will probably appear to help him."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded as he sent a voice transmission. "Senior Brother Sa is good at the Lightning Dharma, which excels at escaping and destroying the enemy. It also has a secondary focus on cultivating one''s body, but it''s quite average when it comes to trapping enemies."


    Ancestral Master Zhang was a little puzzled and could not help but ask via voice transmission. "Trap a half-step Golden Immortal? There aren''t many mighty figures that are good at trapping enemies, right?"


    Trapping¡­ was equivalent to imprisonment!


    Even mighty figures varied in their means. Some were good at melee combat, while others were good at vanquishing their foes with divine powers or Dharma treasures. But to trap and imprison their enemies? Most mighty figures were not adept at that. Those who were good at doing so either had Connate Numinous treasures like the Immortal Binding Rope, or cultivated in Dharmic formulations or divine powers that were good at trapping enemies. All of these were few in number.


    However, the great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, which Qin Yun cultivated in was the great divine power of the ancient demon Celestial Thearch. It was famous for trapping enemies!


    "Hahaha. Senior Brother Sa Xu, you are wasting your strength." Xiahou laughed out boisterously as he flew through the first layer of lightning clouds while withstanding the terrifying lightning blasts.


    Suddenly¡ª


    A massive and boundlessly rich stellar force descended upon him!


    The boundless stellar forces instantly permeated fifteen thousand kilometers. They pressed down on Xiahou''s lightning sword array as he instantly felt weighed down. His expression changed drastically as he turned to look at the distant Qin Yun. At that moment, he saw that 360 Stellar Flying Swords had formed around Qin Yun.


    "Great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm?" Xiahou''s expression changed drastically.


    "Senior Brother Sa, I might not be able to do a thing to him, but I''m confident I can trap him." Qin Yun''s voice resounded through the sky as the 360 Stellar Flying Swords flew over rapidly.


    Upon seeing this scene, Sa Xu''s cold expression finally gave way to a smile. "This Qin Yun really hid well."


    "Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm?" Fairy Mu was astonished.


    "He has reached the phenomenal success stage of a great divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm as well?" Ravenhorn was astonished. "Many mighty figures have attempted to cultivate this ancient demon Celestial Thearch''s great divine power, but they have at best cultivated it to the phenomenal success stage. Yet, he has accomplished that very feat?"


    "No¡ª¡ª!"


    Xiahou attempted to fly away frantically.


    But against the terrifying lightning of the Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma Array and the immensely heavy stellar forces, his speed had reduced drastically. Just after entering the lightning clouds, the 360 Stellar Flying Swords trapped him.


    "Whoosh~" The 360 Stellar Flying Swords formed churning water flows as they swirled around Xiahou, forming circles of water around him that spanned hundreds of kilometers.


    "Begone!"


    Xiahou was gripped by anxiety as he sent his seven lightning divine swords to deliver attacks on the gushing water. Although the water was resilient, he was able to tear through it.


    However, the water formed multiple layers¡­ that appeared infinite.


    A blade could cleave water but that only made it flow!


    The temporary cleaving of water only caused the water to take up form again immediately.


    This strike was created through the combination of the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm great divine power. It was best at trapping and imprisoning enemies¡ªTumultuous River!


    "Xiahou, I cultivated in Lightning Beast Manor for three thousand years. This move is best at trapping enemies. I will be impressed if you can crack it open," said Qin Yun with a loud laugh.


    "Darn it." Xiahou looked down and, through the thick layers of water, he could see the distant Qin Yun, Sa Xu, Ancestral Master Zhang, Fairy Mu, Ravenhorn. He roared angrily, "Qin Yun, are you really trying to bully me in such a manner?"


    Qin Yun scoffed. "Xiahou, there are karmic implications in everything. This is the karma that results from your attacking of a fellow disciple!"


    "Good, very good." Xiahou''s expression turned nasty.


    "Haha. Qin Yun, your enemy trapping move is indeed powerful. The 360 Stellar Swords might not resemble the ancient demon Celestial Thearch''s Heavenly Cycle sword array, but it is rather powerful in its own way. Even if he can crack it open, the layers of water would keep impeding the attacks, greatly reducing any forces. If I were to be trapped in this array, I''d probably have a great drop in strength," Sa Xu said with a laugh. He was in a rare, good mood.


    "Senior Brother, even if your strength did drop a little, you are still at the mighty figure level," said Qin Yun.


    "To be honest, even I wish to have such a great divine power." Sa Xu laughed. "Unfortunately, there are not many domain-type great divine powers in the Three Realms. There are even fewer that are suited for me. Furthermore, I''m not at the Essence Soul realm, so it will be troublesome cultivating it."


    Fairy Mu was observing Qin Yun from the side.


    She was a little astonished by her junior brother as well.


    "Junior Brother Qin, let my array flags enter," said Sa Xu as the thirty-six array flags flew rapidly to the gigantic water sphere that spanned hundreds of kilometers. Wherever it passed, water would make way, giving the thirty-six array flags passage inside. They continued the barrage of attacks while casting the Heavenly Constellation Nine Revolution Lightning Dharma.


    "He is able to barely withstand my Internal Heavenly Constellation Nine Revolution Lightning, but it expends his Dharmic powers greatly," said Sa Xu with a smile. "Once he is drained of all his Dharmic powers, he''s finished."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    It was not easy to deal with a half-step Golden Immortal who was powerful at life-preservation.


    It would only be harder against a mighty figure. It was easy to defeat, but killing and capturing alive was tens if not hundreds of times harder. For instance, some Physical Establishing Sage mighty figures were imprisoned and left to True Fires or True Waters that chipped away at their lives¡­ but even so, it was still very difficult to enervate them to death.


    "No, no¡ª" Xiahou frantically charged the barrier, to the point of using his life-preservation items and Dao talismans.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    He attacked the gigantic water sphere from within again and again, but no matter how deranged he was, tearing through countless water layers, the water would constantly take up form again, dooming him to never escape from it.


    Under Sa Xu''s control of the thirty-six Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma array flags, ring-shaped lightning constantly descended upon him in a barrage of attacks.


    Xiahou gave up.


    He stood on his array patterns in his spot as the seven lightning sword array surrounded him in midair.


    "Junior Brother Qin, Senior Brother Sa." Xiahou looked at Qin Yun and company before begging, "I was wrong. Please spare me this once."

 527 Return Final Chapter of Volume

    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords'' casting of Tumultuous River had trapped Xiahou, while the terrifying stellar forces repressed him. On top of all of that, he was still being battered by the strongest Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma Array!


    Xiahou lost all hope of escaping. He looked pleadingly at Qin Yun and Sa Xu.


    "Senior Brother Sa, Junior Brother Qin, please spare me this once on account of us being fellow disciples," Xiahou said immediately.


    "Don''t worry," Sa Xu said coldly. "I did say that I won''t kill you, but since you attacked a fellow disciple, you shall face retribution today. You can forget about keeping any treasures you''re holding."


    Xiahou''s heart twitched. Not a single one?


    Qin Yun watched from the side and approved of Sa Xu''s actions as well. It was common for there to be conflict among Green Touring Palace disciples, but if one''s life was truly threatened, the Golden Immortals that watched over Green Touring Palace would probably take action.


    If the situation turned even more serious, their master would pay attention to the matter as well.


    Regardless, Xiahou had not killed a fellow disciple, so he did not deserve death.


    ¡­


    Numerous immortal islands floated in the Heavenly realm.


    On one of the immortal islands was a towering palace with Heavenly soldiers guarding it.


    There were fairies inside the palace who tended to it as servants.


    A crimson-haired Daoist was sitting by the side of the lake, leisurely fishing. There was bubbling steam rising from the lake even as fish darted around in it.


    "Oh?" The Daoist sensed something and looked to his side.


    The void beside him produced ripples, showing a distant spot. A black-bearded elder bowed reverently. "Greetings, Senior Brother Luo."


    "Oh? Junior Brother Xiahou," greeted the crimson-haired Daoist with a smile.


    "Senior Brother Luo, my true body is currently in the Lightning world. I had a bit of conflict with my junior brother, Daoist Divine Firmament, and now Junior Brother Qin Yun has sided with Junior Brother Zhang. Even Senior Brother Sa Xu sided with Junior Brother Zhang as well," said Xiahou in exasperation. "They do not have the evidence to act but they are bent on snatching away all of my treasures. They said it''s to serve as a warning for others. I have no one I can seek help from, so I can only request that you help me."


    The Daoist furrowed his brows slightly. "Conflict?"


    "I did not take any of Junior Brother Zhang''s treasures or harm him at all," said Xiahou immediately. "The treasures I have on me include the Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe from the Star Cluster Hall. I also have treasures that I have amassed over the years with great difficulty. Now, Senior Brother Sa Xu and Junior Brother Qin Yun want to take them all! Senior Brother Luo, please help me."


    "You did not harm a fellow disciple at all?" pressed the crimson-haired Daoist.


    "No," said Xiahou immediately.


    "Alright, I''ll speak to Sa Xu."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Luo." Xiahou turned excited.


    "Alright." The Daoist nodded in response.


    Xiahou was secretly pleased.


    He liked befriending as many people as he could. Senior Brother Luo was the strongest acquaintance he had. To create this tie, he had spent a great deal of effort and had even saved one of Senior Brother Luo''s descendants at a critical moment.


    ¡­


    Inside the Lightning world.


    Fairy Mu watched from the side as Ravenhorn shook his head silently. "Xiahou, I can''t help you." As for Ancestral Master Zhang, his eyes were shimmering.


    Qin Yun and Sa Xu also had the patience to deal with Xiahou, slowly draining him of his Dharmic powers.


    Suddenly¡ª


    A fluctuation descended into the Lightning world.


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. Sa Xu, Fairy Mu, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Ravenhorn looked over. Only Xiahou had a gleeful look in his eyes.


    A blurry figure materialized in the distance.


    It was a crimson-haired Daoist. He had a vertical eye at his glabella, and his eyes had flames in them. When he looked down, there was a terrifying repression.


    "Senior Brother Luo." Sa Xu bowed.


    "Senior Brother Luo." Qin Yun, Fairy Mu, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Ravenhorn bowed. Even the trapped Xiahou bowed immediately.


    Mighty figures were unable to descend into Small Worlds with their true bodies.


    The being that had descended was only an avatar, which was naturally very weak. However, no one present dared to slight him.


    The person in front of them had a high standing in Green Touring Palace. He was a Golden Immortal ranked within the top thirty.


    During the war of the three Daoist schools of thought, he was already a Golden Immortal who showcased his mighty strength.


    After all this time, he remained as the leader of the Fire Department of the Heavenly Courts. He was Mars Starlord Luo Xuan! He also had an extremely high standing in the Heavenly Courts.


    "Junior Brother Sa Xu," greeted Luo Xuan with a smile. "I heard of the situation regarding Xiahou. It''s a trivial matter, so why don''t we let it pass?"


    "Senior Brother Luo," said Sa Xu seriously. "This Xiahou had once schemed against Junior Brother Hong. This time, he schemed against Junior Brother Zhang as well. There is a cause to every effect. He needs to suffer for his actions."


    "There was no death or injury, right?" asked Luo Xuan again.


    "No."


    "Then, stop what you are doing."


    Sa Xu cupped his hands. "Senior Brother Luo, forgive me for not being able to agree to that."


    Luo Xuan''s expression sank when he heard that.


    "Senior Brother Sa, please spare me," pleaded Xiahou loudly.


    "No one can save you," said Sa Xu coldly.


    Upon hearing this, Xiahou turned anxious as he shouted immediately, "Qin Yun, Junior Brother Qin! Please dispel your divine power. Let me go, alright?"


    Luo Xuan looked at Qin Yun. "Divine power?"


    Qin Yun knitted his brows immediately.


    "Senior Brother Luo, I was present when Xiahou attacked Senior Brother Zhang," said Qin Yun.


    "Sword immortal." Luo Xuan nodded slightly. "Quite gutsy."


    "Senior Brother Luo, retribution is part of the karmic process. Xiahou deserves such retribution. We are only teaching him a lesson because we are fellow disciples. If we don''t, he could very well forfeit his life by crossing the wrong person," said Sa Xu.


    Luo Xuan frowned when he heard that. He looked carefully at Sa Xu and smiled. "I heard from my senior brothers and sisters that our Green Touring Palace produced a junior brother good at the Lightning Dharma and with hopes of attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. I''ve finally met you."


    With that said, he flicked his sleeve.


    Luo Xuan''s avatar dissipated as a surging fluctuation rapidly flew and returned to the Heavenly realm.


    "He even dismissed Luo Xuan. How ruthless!" Ravenhorn mumbled to himself silently from the side.


    ¡­


    Xiahou was still trapped and a little dazed.


    There were many mighty figures in Green Touring Palace, but most of them were just acquaintances. Since it was not a life-and-death situation, the only Golden Immortal mighty figure who was willing to stand up for him was Luo Xuan! However, troubling Luo Xuan a few times¡­ would eventually strain his ties with Luo Xuan. Asking for Luo Xuan''s help did not come easily, but for his treasures, he could not hold back! This was why he requested help.


    "This Sa Xu''s temper sure is terrible. He even dismisses Senior Brother Luo." Xiahou turned anxious and furious.


    "Sa Xu, tell me. What must I do to have you spare me?" The trapped Xiahou finally screamed.


    "Stop your pointless struggles," said Sa Xu indifferently. "It''s useless. No one can save you. I already said I won''t kill you, but you can forget about keeping any of your treasures."


    "Why don''t you leave me two Dharma treasures for protection. Alright?"


    ¡­


    Xiahou begged, hoping to reduce his losses, but it was to no avail.


    After an hour of pleading, Xiahou finally hung his head in despair.


    "Hahaha, whatever! Since you aren''t letting me keep all my treasures, I don''t even want these three Connate Lightning Fruits," Xiahou said as he took out one Lightning Fruit.


    Qin Yun, Sa Xu, Ancestral Master Zhang, Fairy Mu, and Ravenhorn all looked at him in shock.


    Lightning Fruit?


    "These three Connate Lightning Fruits are very beneficial to you, right?" said Xiahou. "If I eat it, it will be gone in a blink of an eye. It would also be helpful towards my cultivation. However, I can also leave them to you. But¡­ you have to let me keep my Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe and the lightning sword array. I can give up the rest."


    Sa Xu shook his head gently.


    "Even this won''t do?" Xiahou widened his eyes. "Then, all I want is my Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe. Is that okay? Using three Lightning Fruits to exchange for one should work, right? You will be profiting immensely from that."


    He had obtained the Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe from Star Cluster Hall. It was the Dharma treasure which suited him the best.


    "I already said that you can forget about keeping a single treasure. Thay also means not a single Dharma artifact," said Sa Xu nonchalantly.


    "You are going overboard in your bullying," roared Xiahou. "Then, I''ll eat it!"


    "It''s up to you," said Sa Xu.


    "Fine! Fine! Fine!" Xiahou''s expression turned grotesque as he swallowed the Lightning Fruit in a few mouthfuls.


    Sa Xu watched this play out without wearing any expression.


    ¡­


    After being relentlessly assaulted by the Internal Heavenly Constellation Nine Revolutions Lightning for two days and two nights, Xiahou was enervated of all his Dharmic powers and pills. He finally could not persist any longer. He had also swallowed all three Lightning Fruits within those two days.


    In fact, consuming one Connate Lightning Fruit required a long period of cultivation to ponder over the mysticism of the Lightning Great Dao contained within. Only then would one take a second fruit. To eat three in a short span of time was only a waste, but Xiahou could no longer be bothered to worry about waste.


    "All of you are ruthless. Really ruthless!" Xiahou''s Dharmic powers were sealed and his robes were ripped off. He was thrown to the ground half-naked as he wailed.


    "Junior Brother Qin, if not for you, I wouldn''t have been able to do a thing to him. We shall split it. I''ll take the Little Immortal Binding Rope and the Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe. The rest are yours." Sa Xu threw the seven lightning divine swords and the rest of the collection of treasures to Qin Yun. Qin Yun did not stand on ceremony and took it with a smile. "Senior Brother Sa, if not for you, I wouldn''t have been able to do a thing to him."


    "Let''s go."


    When Sa Xu said that, the five immediately flew up.


    Fairy Mu, Ravenhorn, and Qin Yun looked down at the half-naked Xiahou lying on the ground before they left. He indeed looked quite pitiful.


    Moments later, the restraints on Xiahou dispersed. He crawled up and looked at his half-naked body with a nasty expression. Dharmic powers gathered over his body, forming a robe.


    "My Dharma treasures are gone. They are all gone." Xiahou gritted his teeth. "Sa Xu, Qin Yun, all of you are ruthless. Ruthless! And that Ravenhorn¡­ even with our friendship, you just watched as I was reduced to this state."


    ******


    Green Touring Palace.


    Five figures appeared simultaneously.


    "We are back." Ancestral Master Zhang heaved a sigh of relief. Only here did he really feel safe.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, these are your Dharma treasures." Qin Yun handed a bag of items to Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Ancestral Master Zhang received it and thanked him.


    "Everyone, goodbye." Ravenhorn left after saying that. He was quite displeased that his good friend had all his treasures snatched away.


    Fairy Mu also nodded slightly before departing.


    Sa Xu smiled at Qin Yun instead. "Quite gutsy. Not bad." With that said, he left.


    Ancestral Master Zhang looked at the treasures inside his Cosmic Bag as several thoughts came to him. "I cultivated more than a thousand years in the Lightning Beast Manor and was exposed to various Lightning Dharma. I have fifty percent hope of creating a ninth firmament Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma! I hope that¡­ my chances will be even greater after I consume three Connate Lightning Fruits, allowing me to create a ninth firmament Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma. When that happens, I can make up for what I owe Qin Yun."


    "Qin Yun, I''ll first enter seclusion now that I have received the Lightning Fruits," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile as he watched Ancestral Master Zhang leave.


    Qin Yun was left standing there alone.


    "Three thousand years of cultivation. I have gained insights into both my divine powers and sword arts. It''s time to head to the Myriad Dharma Pool." Qin Yun felt eager in anticipation. "I hope that cultivating in the Myriad Dharma Pool will allow me to attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit."


    Myriad Dharma Pool was the greatest opportunity the Dao Ancestor gave the Green Touring Palace disciples before they became a Golden Immortal.

 528 Cultivation in the Myriad Dharma Pool

    Chapter 528: Cultivation in the Myriad Dharma Pool


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace. In a chamber of a small compound.


    An incense stick had been lit as its fragrance permeated the room. Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat while he looked at the yellow-skinned calabash in his hand.


    "Seven Connate Lightning Fruits and the treasures inside this calabash. The karma I owe the Chaos Lightning Beast sure is huge," said Qin Yun to himself. He had sensed that inside the calabash, there was a boulder with lightning circulating around it. There were three Dao talismans floating beside it. "However, the karma only needs to be repaid at the pinnacle Golden Immortal realm. It''s still early."


    Following that, he put away the calabash and closed his eyes to begin his cultivation.


    Green Touring Palace''s environment was naturally more suited for cultivation than anywhere in Lightning Beast Manor. It took him five days to fully organize all his insights gained from the three thousand years of cultivation.


    "I only have one chance to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool. So I have to focus on gaining insights into the Sword Dao. My Sword Dao is fundamental to everything." Having decided on his plan, Qin Yun got up and left the chamber.


    Soon, he came in front of a silent hall. At the hall''s entrance was a black lion sculpture.


    Qin Yun looked at the hall in front of him. The Myriad Dharma Pool was inside! The dream of every Green Touring Palace disciple was to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool for cultivation; unfortunately, every disciple only had one opportunity.


    "I hope I can attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit." Qin Yun looked at the hall and thought to himself. Then, he turned to look at the black lion sculpture and said reverently, "Senior, I wish to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool."


    The black lion sculpture opened its eyes and looked at Qin Yun. "Essence Soul sword immortal? At the moment, you are the only Essence Soul in the entire Green Touring Palace. Why, even you plan on entering the Myriad Dharma Pool? You should know the rules first. You only get one opportunity to enter the Myriad Dharma Pool. Although you defeated Bear Mountain in the past, I still believe your Sword Dao requires more accumulation."


    Qin Yun realized that the black lion sculpture did not know what he had done in the Lightning Beast Manor.


    The battle in the Lightning world¡­


    The Lightning world was layered with array formations. Although the Heavenly Courts monitored the Three Realms, there were still many places its gaze couldn''t penetrate, such as the cave abodes of mighty figures. It was no different with the Lightning world. Therefore, only a handful of people knew of that battle.


    Ancestral Master Zhang, Fairy Mu, Senior Brother Sa Xu were not people who would publicize such matters. The leader of the Heavenly Courts''s Fire department, Luo Xuan, who had the highest standing, probably disdained discussing matters related to half-step Golden Immortals.


    However, Demon King Ravenhorn, as well as Daoist Xiahou, who had a grudge with him, did not spread the news?


    "Of course, I''m only giving you advice. It''s your decision on whether you enter or not," said the black lion sculpture.


    "Senior, please open it." Qin Yun did not hesitate.


    "Fine," said the sculpture as the hall behind him began to stir with runes as it opened a gateway to another space. "Go on in."


    The Myriad Dharma Pool was extremely important.


    Even inside Green Touring Palace, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had set up powerful restraints on it.


    Qin Yun bowed and walked into the hall. The moment he made contact with the runes, he naturally tunneled through and vanished.


    ¡­


    He walked out of the fluctuating runes.


    Qin Yun saw a pool which spanned about thirty feet. At the bottom of the pool was a thin layer of rainbow-colored numinous liquid. There was a circular lotus leaf floating in the middle of the pool.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun took one step and gently landed on the lotus leaf before sitting cross-legged.


    The rainbow-colored numinous liquid suffused Spirit Qi that emanated to the top of the pond. Just breathing naturally was enough to absorb the rainbow-colored Spirit Qi into his body. The Essence Soul in him immediately absorbed the Spirit Qi ravenously.


    "This¡ª" Qin Yun felt his Essence Soul transforming.


    Even his perceptivity had changed, attaining an even higher stage.


    Usually, regardless of where he cultivated, Qin Yun''s perceptivity had been a constant. Even if he felt more at ease in his homeworld, was experiencing the fast passage of time in Lightning Beast Manor, or in the excellent environment in Green Touring Palace. The rainbow-colored Spirit Qi in the Myriad Dharma Pool very obviously enhanced his perceptivity.


    "I actually didn''t figure this out in the past."


    "Wouldn''t this sword move just need a small change to succeed?"


    "I need to fuse all my insights into a potpourri before forming a Great Dao out of it. Now, what I need to do is to create sword arts. I should create more powerful ones until they form a Great Dao." Qin Yun treasured every second inside the Myriad Dharma Pool as he began creating one sword move after another. After creating one, he would dissect it. Either he continued perfecting it or gave up on it.


    Time passed.


    Qin Yun was completely immersed.


    The Myriad Dharma Pool targeted the fundamentals of one''s soul. It was extremely miraculous and could indeed enhance one''s perceptivity. It was even beneficial to the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. However, he had shared it with every disciple. Each disciple could only cultivate for three years in the Myriad Dharma Pool.


    Those with low perceptivity would still be limited even if their perceptivity was raised. Therefore, many Green Touring Palace disciples were trapped at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm.


    In fact, as long as one was very close to attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, and was just a short step away after arduous cultivation for years, cultivation in the Myriad Dharma Pool would raise their perceptivity to a brand new level, making it possible for them to succeed in one shot. But if the gap was overly large, even the Myriad Dharma Pool was useless.


    ******


    Qin Yun had been cultivating for about half a month in the Myriad Dharma Pool when something happened.


    "What? Qin Yun has a Connate Numinous treasure sword?" A lanky man dressed in armor looked at a bearded elder with lit eyes. "Xiahou, are you sure?"


    "Brother Cang, rest assured. Qin Yun is an Essence Soul sword immortal. No matter how robust his foundations are, his Dharmic powers are still very weak. But he is able to control a flying sword with his Dharmic powers to produce strength that matches a half-step Golden Immortal. His Sword Dao is nothing worth mentioning. It''s still far from attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. Then, there''s only one possibility¡ªhis flying sword itself is very powerful. Perhaps, it''s no ordinary Connate Numinous treasure, but a pinnacle Connate Numinous treasure or an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure!" said Xiahou immediately.


    "This is a Connate Numinous treasure, and one of the flying sword variety. It''s definitely good at killing enemies. Even mighty figures would want to snatch it."


    "Yes." The lanky man nodded and narrowed his eyes. "However, you mentioned that he has gained phenomenal success in two great divine powers?"


    "Yes. That''s the troublesome part." Xiahou nodded.


    "Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes is best at protecting one''s body. Although I can match mighty figures, even I can''t crack it," said the lanky man. "The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm is a domain-type divine power. It''s also quite troublesome. Even if I joined forces with a friend, I wouldn''t be able to crack the turtle shell that is the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes."


    "Is there nothing you can do?" pressed Xiahou.


    The lanky man shook his head. "You don''t understand how formidable the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes are. This great divine power, if perfected, cannot be cracked unless it''s struck by an existence at the level of the Dao Ancestors. Even at the phenomenal success stage¡­ only strikes by pinnacle Golden Immortals can crack it. Besides, divine powers do not expend Dharmic powers. They expend stellar forces. He will be able to continue using it as long as he needs."


    "However, there might be other means we can attempt," said the lanky man. "For example, moves that mesmerize the mind. I just have no idea how his Dao heart and Sword Dao are."


    "Sword immortals all have Intrinsic Flying Swords to protect their Essence Souls. Is it even possible to mesmerize their minds?" asked Xiahou.


    "He has only cultivated for a short period of time. It can be attempted," pondered the lanky man. "However, I do not know any mesmerizing moves. I''d need to prepare for it."


    "Moves that target the Essence Soul are all very dangerous. Brother Cang, you must not kill him," said Xiahou immediately. "Just snatching his treasures is one thing, but if he were killed, Green Touring Palace would definitely investigate thoroughly. If they figure out that I''m behind this, I will be in big trouble for causing the death of a fellow disciple. All I want is that lightning sword array."


    "Don''t worry. Now that every faction is allied to deal with the fiends, how can we easily kill a half-step Golden Immortal of the Green Touring Palace?" The lanky man shook his head. "By the way, help me take note of Qin Yun''s whereabouts. After accomplishing the matter, the lightning sword array is naturally yours."


    "Alright." Xiahou nodded immediately.


    "Remember, keep the Connate Numinous treasure flying sword a secret," said the lanky man.


    "Don''t worry. I know." Xiahou nodded.


    Be it his thirst for the lightning sword array, or the humiliation of being robbed clean of his treasures, he was bent on making Qin Yun suffer! Of course, his other important treasure, the Seven Sonorous Lightning God Robe, was in the hands of Sa Xu. Helpless against Sa Xu, Xiahou could only temporarily tolerate the situation.


    ¡­


    Although Xiahou promised to keep note of Qin Yun''s whereabouts, Qin Yun was in seclusion inside Myriad Dharma Pool all this while.


    Very few people knew of the battle in the Lightning world. Fairy Mu was very aloof, and Senior Brother Sa Xu was always a loner. There was no need to mention Ancestral Master Zhang. Xiahou kept the secret to the best of his abilities and made Ravenhorn keep it a secret as well. "Ravenhorn, this is the greatest insult in my entire life. You are not to spread it." Ravenhorn had already felt that Xiahou''s outcome was tragic, so he naturally agreed to not spread the news.


    Therefore¡­


    This news only gradually spread two years later after Fairy Mu had a chat with a good friend. It was only three years after the battle in the Lightning world that it spread to Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun cultivated in the Myriad Dharma Pool for a year.


    Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "Hahah, I have finally broken through to the seventh firmament Skyfiend realm." In a dark cave abode, Empyrean Lord Kuifu was extremely excited. "My realm has finally reached the late-stage Skyfiend realm."


    "If I''m lucky, I will be able to cultivate my intrinsic divine power to perfection, giving me half-step Ancestral Fiend strength," thought Kuifu.


    Previously, he had relied on his intrinsic divine power to fight people above his level. It gave him strength that matched that of ordinary ninth firmament Skyfiends.


    Now, with his realm going from the mid-stages to the late-stages¡­


    Now that he had attained his realm, there was a sliver of chance that he could have a breakthrough in his divine power. Divine powers were hard to master! One''s realm only represented the basics. Although the divine power he cultivated in was far inferior to Qin Yun''s great divine powers, attaining perfection in it was still extremely difficult. However, the divine power suited Kuifu best. It also filled him with anticipation.


    "If I were to attain half-step Ancestral Fiend strength, the Great Chang world''s Daoist Divine Firmament and Qin Yun would amount to nothing! As long as I''m sufficiently prepared, I will be able to occupy the Great Chang world in one swift stroke." Kuifu reeled in excitement. "Only I know the secret of the Great Chang world. It will take quite some time before that Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament reach the strength of half-step Golden Immortals."


    "I have time."


    "The Great Chang world will ultimately be mine." Kuifu''s eyes were filled with desire.

 529 Matching Mighty Figures?

    Chapter 529: Matching Mighty Figures?


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the lotus leaf in the Myriad Dharma Pool as he absorbed the rainbow-colored Spirit Qi.


    He constantly pondered over the sword arts in his mind, perfecting and completing them throughout the entire process.


    Qin Yun''s perception was high to begin with. He had also accumulated a great deal of insight and experience. These were further accentuated in the Myriad Dharma Pool. In his mind, he easily inferred and perfected many sword arts. Only sufficiently powerful sword arts¡­ required him to manually deliver them to test them.


    "Oh?"


    A thought came to his head.


    It was a brand new sword art forming in his mind.


    "Excellent! This sword art is the most powerful one I have thought of over this one and a half years." Qin Yun opened his eyes and revealed a look of glee. "I''ll try it."


    "Open!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand as a wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip.


    A black vortex appeared around the Misty Rain Sword, penetrating everything it passed through! The Myriad Dharma Pool''s array formation was very powerful, but when the Misty Rain Sword stabbed the boundaries of the array formation, just the slight contact caused ripples to form.


    "I have finally caused fluctuations in the array formation which was personally set up by Master. My previous strikes did not even cause a stir when they slashed at the array formation." Qin Yun was quite pumped. "This strike far exceeds the might of my previous sword moves. It is qualitatively different! If I compare it to the five sword manuals¡­ the profoundness of this strike is already at a level of a Golden Immortal."


    The higher Qin Yun''s realm was, the more acute he became.


    Since he had cultivated in sword manuals at the Golden Immortal level, he was naturally able to determine the level of his own moves.


    "A sword art at the Golden Immortal level, with the Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure flying sword making up for my Dharmic powers weakness, the might of this strike has reached that of a Golden Immortal." Qin Yun felt great upheavals through his heart.


    After cultivating for millennia¡­


    He finally had a move that had stepped into the realm of Golden Immortals.


    Ordinary Golden Immortal sword immortals with an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure flying sword would have combat strength at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level! This gave rise to the claim: destroying all Dharma with a single sword. Of course, for those Golden Immortal sword immortals¡­ every simple move was a sword art at the Golden Immortal level, and multiple sword arts at that. As for Qin Yun, he had only figured out one move!


    "This move was derived from my killing intent for fiends. I''ll call it Evil Pandemonium." Qin Yun gave a name to his move. The entire Three Realms were still facing a fiendish threat. Back when the fiends rose in prominence, the Daoists, Buddhists, as well as the Heavenly Courts had joined forces, but failed to destroy it. Now, the fiends'' creation of a solid bedrock left Qin Yun bemoaning the pitiful situation while killing intent rose in him.


    He grieved at the way fiends had wreaked havoc on countless living beings.


    The evil pandemonium grants tough passage.


    Only through one''s sword can one forge through the pandemonium!


    "I have figured out a sword art at the Golden Immortal level, but I have no idea when I''ll be able to gain insights into the Great Dao! My Sword Dao''s foundation is very high, but to transform it into a Great Dao¡­ it''s much more difficult." Qin Yun understood this point.


    The Great Dao could be graded by strength.


    They were just like Connate Numinous treasures.


    Connate Numinous treasures all contained a Great Dao within! However, the might of Connate Numinous treasures differed drastically. The weaker ones were not much stronger than supreme-grade Numinous treasures! The strongest one were even helpful for the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestor. For instance, his master, Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, would be very different if he did not have his Immortal Vanquishing Array. Therefore, it could be said that¡­ the difference in the Great Dao contained resulted in great variation.


    "For example, Mars Starlord Senior Brother Luo Xuan cultivates in the Fire Dao, so he''s only an ordinary Golden Immortal. Even with his numerous Connate Numinous treasures, the might he delivers is only considered close to the Golden Immortal pinnacle! Compared to true pinnacle Golden Immortals, he is far inferior." Qin Yun understood this point.


    "Back when that monkey 1reached the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, he was already practicing the Physical Establishing Sage. He was able to cause mayhem in the Heavenly Courts by his strength alone. Only when that Erlang 2 took action did he manage to tie with the monkey."


    Those that could become pinnacle Golden Immortals were truly powerful. They were basically unstoppable in the Three Realms.


    And for those even stronger?


    They were perfected Golden Immortals.


    Those included Emperor Polestar, who was lord of the stars, Goddess Houtu, who controlled all lands, Amita, who was the lord of the Western Paradise, Ancestral Master Bodhi from Mt. Lingtai, the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation of the Eastern Paradise¡­ All of them had high standings in the Three Realms. They lived in Great Worlds. Since the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were unable to descend upon those worlds with their real bodies, those entities were considered invincible! They naturally had extraordinary standings!


    "My Sword Dao can be divided into Heaven, Earth, and Man. It has extremely high foundations, and once I master it, I will be at the pinnacle Golden Immortal. However, attaining the Dao is extremely difficult."


    For instance, the Eldest Senior Brother of Green Touring Palace, Daoist Copious Treasures, had created the Five Elemental Sword Sutra.


    It required one to understand the Five Directions and Five Elements, the rotation concept of the Five Elements.


    Once one attained the Dao¡­ they would be a pinnacle Golden Immortal!


    Later on, one had to separately cultivate each of the Five Elements to the Great Dao realm. It was equivalent to cultivating in five different Great Dao! One Great Dao was already extremely difficult, much less five! Furthermore, one had to fuse it with the Five Directions to attain perfection. That would result in a perfected Golden Immortal! The Green Touring Palace''s Eldest Senior Brother¡­ was a perfected Golden Immortal, one that even dared fight the Dao Ancestor.


    Back when Qin Yun decided on his Sword Dao foundations, he sought perfection. He wanted his Sword Dao to encompass Heaven, Earth, and Man. Although they were only three, they contained everything in the universe.


    Once he succeeded in his Sword Dao, he would be a pinnacle Golden Immortal.


    Later on¡­ He still needed to gain insights into the Great Dao of Heaven, the Great Dao of Earth, and the Great Dao of Man. Only by encompassing all three would his Sword Dao be perfect, pushing him to the perfected Golden Immortal realm.


    If a particular mighty figure were to first gain insights into the Great Dao of Heaven, the Great Dao of Earth, and the Great Dao of Man and still fail to reach the perfected Golden Immortal level, they even had to gain insights into the Dharma of Encompassment! Only by perfectly fusing all three would they be at the perfected Golden Immortal level. In fact, that was almost impossible.


    Everything was played by ear.


    By first figuring out the Dao of Fusion, there would be synergy between the three where they would complement and improve each other. Only then would one have a chance at the perfected Golden Immortal level.


    As for the even higher Buddhist Ancestor and Dao Ancestors?


    Qin Yun was unsure about it. The Myriad Dharma Repository in Green Touring Palace had vague descriptions about them.


    "I have figured out a Golden Immortal level sword move after one and half years in the Myriad Dharma Pool. Perhaps, I''ll be able to attain a Great Dao in three years." Qin Yun calmed down his mind as he continued his cultivation while sitting cross-legged on the lotus leaf.


    ******


    "Where did this Qin Yun go?"


    "The one that''s accompanying his wife in the Great World is only an avatar. Where is his true body?" Xiahou looked through the various halls in Green Touring Palace and was a little puzzled. "Brother Cang had invited a mighty figure to help seek out Qin Yun, but even he failed to find Qin Yun''s true body. If a mighty figure can''t even find him¡­ it''s highly likely that Qin Yun is in Green Touring Palace."


    "He is cultivating inside Green Touring Palace, but I have searched numerous places. Could he have gone to places like the Myriad Dharma Pool or Fiend Congregation Cave which only allow one person to enter?" Xiahou was a little anxious and helpless.


    He could not find Qin Yun at all.


    Qin Yun had not informed anyone that he was entering the Myriad Dharma Pool for cultivation. Furthermore, the Myriad Dharma Pool was impervious to all probes! Even the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor or Buddhist Ancestor were unable to spy on the Myriad Dharma Pool because it was created by the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    Therefore, no one could find Qin Yun''s true body.


    ¡­


    In a cave abode of the Effulgent Great World.


    A young couple were together, and one of them was Qin Yun''s daughter, Qin Yiyi.


    "Sis Yiyi, I''ll be undergoing the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal at any time. Before I transcend the tribulations, I plan on visiting my homeworld. Do you want to accompany me there?" asked the young man.


    "I''ve long heard of how powerful your Han family is. It has hundreds of immortals and it holds control over dozens of worlds. I definitely have to take a good look," said Qin Yiyi with a smile. "However, Brother Double Wood 3, don''t you bully me when we are at your Han family. If you force my hand, I''ll get my father to come."


    "I wouldn''t dare! Even without Sword Immortal Qin, just you alone isn''t someone I dare bully. It''s more like you would bully me," said the young man.


    Qin Yiyi smiled.


    It had been two decades since she left the Great Chang world. In the beginning, she had stayed in the dragon''s territory. Since she was a dragon girl, and she had Sword Immortal Qin as her father, many male dragons had courted her, but in the end¡­ Qin Yiyi ended up traveling the world with a youth named Han Lin. He was even younger than Qin Yiyi.


    They addressed each other as brother and sister, but having traveled for more than ten years across the world, they had long acknowledged each other as a partner.


    "When do you plan on returning? Anytime is fine for me," said Qin Yiyi.


    "I have informed my dad. The Han family also welcomes you, Sis Yiyi. Since you don''t have any objections, I''ll get my family clan to open a void passageway?" asked Han Lin.


    "Sure." Qin Yiyi said in a straightforward manner.


    Han Lin immediately held up a memento and contacted his family clan from afar. A middle-aged man''s figure appeared out of the rippling void.


    "Dad, this is Miss Qin," said Han Lin.


    "Greetings, Uncle." Qin Yiyi was usually unafraid of anything, but she appeared a little shy at that moment.


    "Dad, quickly get the family clan to open a void passageway for us," urged Han Lin.


    "Hahaha, alright." The middle-aged man smiled as his eyes narrowed. His lineage was nothing impressive in the Han family, but his son had managed to establish close ties with Sword Immortal Qin''s daughter. Even though Sword Immortal Qin and his wife knew of the matter, they did not object to it. Now, his lineage had its standing in the Han family greatly uplifted.


    Moments later.


    Boom!


    A void passageway materialized. The two Patriarchs of the Han family had taken action together. One of them was a ninth firmament Skyimmortal and the other an eighth firmament Skyimmortal. Soon, they stabilized a void passageway that could allow passage for people at the Essence Soul realm.


    "Sis Yiyi, let''s go." Han Lin held Qin Yiyi''s hand and stepped through the void passageway and headed for the world where the Han family was.

 530 Exiting Seclusion

    Chapter 530: Exiting Seclusion


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In a blink of an eye, three years quickly passed while Qin Yun immersed himself in seclusion.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged on a lotus leaf in the Myriad Dharma Pool, opened his eyes. The thin layer of rainbow-colored spiritual liquid was already dissipating.


    "The three years are up." The black lion sculpture''s voice resounded in the Myriad Dharma Pool. "Qin Yun, it''s time for you to leave."


    Qin Yun immediately got up and flew out of the pool.


    At a glance, he saw the boundary of the array formation produce runic patterns. Qin Yun took a step forward and entered the patterns before vanishing.


    ¡­


    Effulgent Great World.


    It was now late at night. A blurry light descended in the night sky, revealing Qin Yun in midair. He looked down below at an ancient city. Meanwhile, Qin Yun''s avatar was leisurely enjoying some alcohol with his wife, Yi Xiao, while watching a song-and-dance performance.


    "My cultivation in the Myriad Dharma Pool has ended. I have indeed improved very quickly in these three years. I have also created five sword moves that reach the Golden Immortal level. In a way, my frontal assault methods are rather comprehensive." Qin Yun sighed secretly. "However, although I have built up a deeper foundation, and am getting closer to the Great Dao, I still feel that I''m just short by a sliver! Just a sliver¡­"


    To be able to create a move that paralleled a mighty figure at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm was the mark of astounding perceptivity.


    For instance, Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud, Yellow-robed Supremacy, Senior Brother Sa Xu, they were all famous throughout the Three Realms! They were infinitely close to the Great Dao.


    However, being close did not mean that they had stepped through the realms of a Great Dao.


    At times, an ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal might one day have an epiphany and instantly soar by leaps and bounds, becoming a Golden Immortal mighty figure in the process. As for those extremely powerful Skyimmortals that had already matched mighty figures, they might never be able to take that final step. How could this be explained? It was the way of cultivation. Nothing could be forced! There was no question when one became enlightened, but if they didn''t¡­ they could only think of means to continue making their foundations even more robust.


    Cultivators believed in one saying: With enough accumulation, things would naturally fall in place!


    In general, about half of the powerful Skyimmortals who could match mighty figures would eventually form their Great Dao. It had been that way since the beginning the universe! The only difference was the time they took. As for ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal attaining their Great Dao? The chance was probably less than one in a thousand.


    "I''m just short of a sliver, but I have no idea how long this sliver will set me back. More than half of the immortals and fiends that match mighty figures in the Three Realms are stuck in this tiny gap. They just can''t make that breakthrough," thought Qin Yun.


    woosh.


    Qin Yun descended and soon arrived at the second floor of a restaurant''s hall. He fused with his avatar as he absorbed the Dharmic powers of his avatar. Although there were other guests in the hall, no one noticed this scene.


    "Brother Yun, you have finished cultivating?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun in pleasant surprise.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    "How was your seclusion?" pressed Yi Xiao. Although her realm was nothing to speak off, she knew many secrets of the Three Realms because of her husband. She also knew that the Myriad Dharma Pool was the greatest opportunity for Green Touring Palace disciples before they became Golden Immortals.


    Qin Yun shook his head gently. "Although I feel like I''m just short, by about a sliver¡­ I still can''t figure out a Great Dao! Back when I stepped into the Dao, I had set up my Sword Dao foundations. It was to seek the apex. It also makes my attaining of a Great Dao rather difficult."


    Yi Xiao immediately consoled him, "Brother Yun, you haven''t cultivated for long, but you are already just a sliver short of the Great Dao. Didn''t you say that Senior Brother Yellow-robed matched that of a mighty figure? Isn''t he also stuck at that bottleneck?"


    "I currently can match a mighty figure as well," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao was taken aback as she looked at him in a daze.


    Match a mighty figure?


    What sort of standing and status did mighty figures have? For instance, the fiends'' supreme leader in the Effulgent dominion, Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud, could only match a mighty figure. Yellow-robed Supremacy was once the head of the western mansion of the Twenty-eight Lunar Mansions. As for the monkey, he had been suppressed under a mountain for five hundred years and could only drink molten copper. Being worn down by days, his strength was reduced greatly to the point where Yellow-robed Supremacy was able to fight him to a tie. Although it was at the monkey''s lowest point, it was still considered quite impressive to fight him to a tie.


    At that level, they were highly respected no matter where they went. Furthermore, Qin Yun was a Green Touring Palace disciple. He was backed by someone much stronger than the monkey who rose to prominence!


    If Qin Yun were to publicly reveal his strength, perhaps the Heavenly Courts would even invite Qin Yun to the Feast of Peaches.


    "Brother Yun, what did you say?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask.


    "I said I can match a mighty figure. Why?" Qin Yun smiled cheekily. He was quite amused seeing his wife''s shocked expression.


    Having someone to share in his joy after becoming strong was a type of bliss. This was something a lone cultivator could not experience.


    "Match that of a mighty figure?" Yi Xiao widened her eyes. "That fast?"


    "Back when I was cultivating in the Lightning Beast Manor, I already had the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. Furthermore, I had attained phenomenal success in both my divine powers. My foundations can be considered quite robust. Now that I have cultivated in the Myriad Dharma Pool for three years, it can only be considered normal for me to match a mighty figure, right?" said Qin Yun deliberately.


    "That''s fast? In all of the Three Realms, few can match your cultivation speed," said Yi Xiao hurriedly.


    "There are some. There are some who become Golden Immortals after a few years of cultivation. Some are even born as mighty figures."


    "Those are freaks of nature or even Chaos Godfiends. Ordinary mortals have to cultivate step by step. Few can really match you, Brother Yun." Yi Xiao felt wistful. "Back when we got married in the Scenic Yang immortal abode, I already believed that you would one day be very powerful, but I never dared imagine you would match Golden Immortals or Buddhas."


    Qin Yun also recalled the days when he and his wife were trapped in the Scenic Yang immortal abode.


    Time passed rather quickly.


    At his present realm, he could use the 360 Stellar Flying Swords of his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm to fight at a mighty figure''s level even without using his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The five separate moves he had, combined with his two great divine powers, gave him comprehensive means.


    ¡­


    That day, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao returned to their homeworld, the Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun cultivated daily by the mirror lake. He felt especially at peace in his homeworld. Now that he was just short of attaining the Great Dao by a sliver, the place he cultivated in did not matter much unless it was something like the Myriad Dharma Pool, a sacred cultivation land. Therefore, he was more willing to choose his homeworld.


    He would spend every day meditating¡­


    He was seeking that sliver of chance! Once he gained enlightenment, he would attain his Great Dao.


    That would be a pinnacle Golden Immortal Great Dao, enough to shock the Three Realms. However, it was clearly something that could not be rushed.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun drank a tea prepared by his wife in his garden as he asked, "Our daughter has already been with the Han family for two years, right? Has she been there all this time?"


    "Wasn''t it you who said it? Our daughter is a cultivator. She should make her own decisions. We as parents should not overtly interfere," said Yi Xiao with a pouting smile.


    "There''s still a need to show some concern," said Qin Yun with a reciprocating smile. "We did a thorough check on that kid, Han Lin, as well. He''s not bad. The Han family is also an orthodox Daoist faction. The two patriarchs of the Han family would not dare slight my daughter. But we still need to check up on her. After all, it''s been almost two years. It''s not right for her to stay with the Han family all the time."


    "Why aren''t you, her father, asking?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "It''s more suitable if it''s you." Qin Yun said smilingly as he sipped his tea. His eyes lit up. "Oh, this flower tea is really fragrant."


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "Oh?" Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud read through a dossier and could not help but be alarmed. "At the battle in the Lightning world, Qin Yun already showed the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal? His divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, has also attained the phenomenal success stage?"


    He waved his hand.


    A ripple opened up in the void beside him, and appearing in the distant space was a white-haired elder.


    "Senior Brother Qi, why it take three years for the intelligence regarding Qin Yun''s battle in the Lightning world to reach us?" pressed Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud.


    "The Lightning world is layered with multiple array formations. Even the Heavenly Courts did not detect the battle. There was also no proof regarding the battle," said the white-haired elder. "The six who entered the Lightning Beast Manor were very tight-lipped. This news is only known to few in the Green Touring Palace. We have only just received the news and confirmed that it was Fairy Mu who mentioned it to a friend. Based on her character, it is very likely for this to be authentic."


    Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud nodded slightly. "His Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm has already reached the phenomenal success stage. Then, his protective Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes of the same lineage has probably attained phenomenal success as well?"


    "Probably." The white-haired elder nodded.


    "With him having two great divine powers, it will be hard to kill him." Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud frowned.


    "Forget it if you can''t kill him. There are many in the Three Realms who are stronger than Qin Yun," said the white-haired elder with a smile.


    Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud nodded. "It looks like it has to be put on hold."


    ******


    The Han family. Jade Screen world.


    Mt. Jade Screen of the Jade Screen world was where the Han family rose to prominence. As it was now, the Han family had long gained control of dozens of worlds in the vicinity. Its family clan had hundreds of immortals. Of course, many of them had been recruited by the Han family. It was common for a huge family clan to occupy its own region in the Three Realms.


    But recently, the Han family was in deep apprehension.


    "Sis Yiyi." Han Lin dashed into the courtyard frantically. Qin Yiyi, who was practicing her swordplay in the yard, came to a stop and asked in astonishment, "Brother Double Wood, my dad said that one''s Dao heart is extremely important when it comes to cultivation. Look at you being all flustered."


    "Something huge happened," said Han Lin frantically.


    "Something huge?" asked Qin Yiyi.


    "Didn''t I mention before that many deaths and injuries happened in the Jade Screen world? Several of my Han family''s immortals died. Later, a fifth firmament Skyimmortal senior died," said Han Lin anxiously. "My Han family began investigating the entirety of the Jade Screen world, and even my patriarch, Immortal Golden Maple, joined in the search personally in a bid to scour the entire Jade Screen world. I originally believed that with Patriarch Golden Maple handling the matter personally, the matter would be resolved. But just today, Patriarch Golden Maple and the eight immortals he brought with him have died."


    "What?" Qin Yiyi was alarmed. "Immortal Golden Maple is dead?"


    Immortal Golden Maple was one of the Han family''s two patriarchs. He was an eighth-firmament Skyimmortal.


    At his strength, it was possible to defeat him, but killing him would be difficult. For instance, back when Ancestral Master Zhang pursued Empyrean Lord Kuifu, he had ultimately failed to finish the fiend. It was the same situation.


    "The murderer is very powerful," said Han Lin. "Now, all the Han family''s immortals have returned to Mt. Jade Screen. The family clan''s massive array has been fully activated, completely sealing the void. It''s to prevent the murderer from infiltrating."


    "Sis Yiyi, now that the void has been sealed, you can''t return for the time being." Han Lin looked at Qin Yiyi. "But you previously promised your parents that you would return."


    "Now that something serious has happened to your Han family, how could a few days of waiting matter?" Qin Yiyi shook her head.


    "Don''t worry. My patriarch has sought his senior brothers and sisters for help. We will definitely figure out the murderer''s identity," said Han Lin.

 531 Grand Magus Warning

    Chapter 531: Grand Magus Warning


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Han Lin was ultimately a junior who wasn''t even a Skyimmortal. The Han family had hundreds of immortals, with two patriarchs who were at the eighth and ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. Therefore, it was obvious what Han Lin''s standing was in the Han family. What juniors like Han Lin knew of this crisis only scratched the surface. The truth was even more horrendous.


    In a quiet courtyard in an ordinary city of the Jade Screen world.


    Patriarch Golden Maple and the eight immortals under him had hairy tentacles stabbed through their chests, some even being suspended in midair by those tentacles. All of them wore looks of horror and despair.


    "Golden Maple, your elder brother is that afraid of death?" A effeminate man stood in the yard, and behind him, nine long tentacles grew out, stabbing into the bodies of the immortals. He had instantly maimed the immortals of their Dharmic powers and had begun absorbing their Essence Souls. Unable to invoke their Dharmic powers, to the point of their Essence Soul being severely damaged, their avatars they left in the family clan dissipated immediately for they could no longer maintain them.


    "It''s you!? Fiend King Zhuhou?" Patriarch Golden Maple widened his eyes as he trembled in pain.


    The other eight immortals were unable to maintain consciousness as they convulsed in pain, their eyes beginning to glaze over.


    Patriarch Golden Maple was ultimately an eighth firmament Skyimmortal, so even though his Essence Soul was slowly being devoured, he was able to barely maintain his clarity of mind.


    "Yes, it''s me," said the effeminate man with a sneer.


    "You feigned being weaker than me previously," said Patriarch Golden Maple with his voice trembling. "But you still escaped my pursuit. Was it to lure Brother and I to join forces against you?"


    "Yes, yes, yes. That''s exactly what it was." The man nodded. "Unfortunately, despite the methods I used to lure you and your brother out while keeping my identity a secret, to the point of appearing afraid of you two, I only managed to lure you into pursuing me¡­ Even when I revealed strength weaker than yours, your elder brother still didn''t appear. He refused to take action and even refused to come out by hiding in Mt. Jade Screen! I don''t think your brother is a human, but a cowardly turtle turned immortal."


    "It''s naturally unusual for someone to attack my Han family in the Jade Screen world when you are weaker than me." Patriarch Golden Maple''s body convulsed. "My brother had long suspected it, but I was overconfident and took the initiative to investigate the matter. Still, I never expected the person behind this to be you¡ªFiend King Zhuhou, one of the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage.


    "Hahaha¡­ Are you very pleasantly surprised that it''s me?" Fiend King Zhuhou laughed somewhat maniacally.


    The fiends had many lineages.


    Known as the fiends among fiends were two lineages¡ªthe spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage. Top experts of these two lineages rose to prominence by stepping atop countless of corpses.


    The spirit-devouring lineage had two Ancestral Fiends, five Fiend Supremacies, and sixteen Fiend Kings.


    The sixteen Fiend Kings¡­ were all spirit-devouring lineage experts at the half-step Ancestral Fiend strength.


    "You wish to devour all life in the Jade Screen world?" Patriarch Golden Maple was turning increasingly weaker as his Essence Soul was being devoured. He glared at the effeminate man with reddened eyes.


    "I''m sick of eating the souls of ordinary mortal beings. I''ve already devoured all mortal life in a Small World seven times. This time, I want to try something bigger." Zhuhou chuckled as he said. "The Jade Screen world is the center of command for the surrounding worlds your Han family controls. The largest number of cultivators is here, more than ten times that of other Small Worlds. Most importantly, there are hundreds of immortals! Haha, I have never devoured that many immortals before. I planned on finishing the two of you first, leaving the other immortals helpless against me. They would then be easy prey, but¡­ your brother refuses to come out!"


    "Since I can''t lure him out, I can only make a frontal assault," said Zhuhou with a smile. "It''s time for you to go first. I''ll immediately send your elder brother and hundreds of Han family immortals to accompany you in death."


    Golden Maple roared in a deranged manner, "My Han family is an orthodox sect of the Grand Supreme lineage! My brother is even more adept at array formations. Mt. Jade Screen was set up by us brothers at the cost of countless treasures. With my brother presiding over the array, there''s no way you can crack it open."


    "I''ll just give it a try. Who knows, I might be able to crack it?" Zhuhou smiled. "An eighth firmament Skyimmortal''s Essence Soul is able to match the ordinary lives of half a Small World. After such a long period of drainage, you are almost done. Your brother will be immediately informed the moment you are dead. Don''t worry, go ahead. Your brother will soon join you."


    When his voice fell¡ª


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The nine tentacles immediately increased their devouring force. The eight immortals who had their Essence Souls already vanquished were pulverized instantly. Even their physical bodies were devoured clean, leaving only their clothes and external objects to flutter to the ground.


    Golden Maple''s Essence Soul was the last to be devoured. He was able to persist the longest, but he was still at his limits.


    After his Essence Soul was devoured, his weakened body was naturally devoured clean in an instant.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The nine tentacles rapidly retracted.


    Zhuhou waved his hands and stored away the treasures left behind by the nine immortals. He had a fervent look in his eyes. "Once Golden Maple is dead, his brother will immediately be notified. I have to immediately set up an array formation! Once the array formation is formed, I''ll attack Mt. Jade Screen. Since I can''t lure him out, I can only unleash a frontal assault."


    Swoosh.


    He instantly vanished.


    ******


    Great Chang world.


    Grand Dominance, by the tiny mirror lake in the Qin family''s compound.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the side of the lake. It was in mid-autumn and a gentle breeze wafted over, stirring ripples across the lake''s surface.


    Wisps of Sword Qi were simulating different sword moves in front of Qin Yun.


    He did this every day. Nearly all his efforts were placed on his Sword Dao.


    Even when drinking tea or out strolling with his wife, his mind was mostly on pondering the Sword Dao. He was just short of a sliver, one that he felt he would soon grasp. Since he was just obstructed by that sliver, Qin Yun naturally pondered over it daily. He believed that sustained efforts could accomplish seemingly impossible things. Therefore, he spent more effort on it, giving him greater hope at breaking through that final sliver. He believed that he would take less time as a result.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun as somewhat astonished as he looked ahead.


    The void rippled open in front of him, projecting a distant scene.


    A thin elder dressed in linen clothes sat cross-legged on a mat. Surrounding him were three ancient stone columns.


    "Grand Magus Pengshui," greeted Qin Yun with a smile.


    The person in front of him was the supreme leader of the Magus Gate in the Effulgent dominion. He was Grand Magus Pengshui, a ninth firmament Grand Magus. In terms of strength, he was one of the cream of the crop among ninth firmament Skyimmortals, comparable to Demon King Bear Mountain. However, the means available to him were unfathomable.


    The Magus Gate did not have a single perfected Ancestral Magus in the entire Three Realms, however, the Ten Magi of the Magus Gate still struck extreme fear in the hearts of others. It was because the means available to them were just too unfathomable. Unless necessary, even the fiends would try their best to avoid the most powerful Grand Magi of the Magus Gate.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you told me to watch your family." Grand Magus Pengshui took out a puppet the size of a palm. "I can now sense that your daughter, Qin Yiyi, will soon be in grave danger."


    "What?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    His daughter and son were out cultivating and experiencing the world. Qin Yun had left them some life-protection items. He ready to rush to them immediately as long as they sought help.


    However¡ª


    In an extreme danger, or in certain perilous lands, there was no way to seek his help.


    Therefore, Qin Yun had long sought the help of Grand Magus Pengshui. After Qin Yun defeated Bear Mountain, various factions in the Effulgent dominion had visited Qin Yun. The Magus Gate had done the same. They had even taken away Lady Chen Shuang who was rather talented in magi cultivation. There was no choice¡­ Although the Magus Gate had unfathomable means, they needed to befriend all kinds of experts in order to take root in the Three Realms. In the Effulgent dominion, they placed great importance on Sword Immortal Qin; therefore, when Qin Yun sought Grand Magus Pengshui''s help, he was immediately agreeable to it. But as a result of this, Qin Yun was now indebted to the Magus Gate.


    Grand Magus Pengshui held the puppet and said, "I can sense that she is currently in the Jade Screen world."


    "I know. Thanks." Qin Yun had no time to speak further.


    Hua!


    He took a step and vanished, arriving in the distant Jade Screen world.


    The art of Major Void Transference!


    During the three thousand years of cultivation in the Lightning Beast Manor, Qin Yun had already figured out the art of Major Void Transference.

 532 Han familys Request For Reinforcements

    Chapter 532: Han family''s Request For Reinforcements


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Hua!


    Qin Yun appeared high above Mt. Jade Screen in the Jade Screen world. He looked down and saw that many of the array formations of Mt. Jade Screen had been activated. The periphery of the mountain range had clouds swirling around it, and within it were numerous illusion and killing arrays.


    A sect or family clan typically had weak exterior defenses, but powerful interior defenses! For the area to be so tightly secured, defenses activated, it was obvious that something was out of the ordinary.


    "From the looks of it, the Han family is in really big trouble." Qin Yun took one step and appeared at the outermost entrance of Mt. Jade Screen.


    At the entrance were two Guardian Generals, both having the strength of Skyimmortals.


    Cultivators might betray, but Guardian Generals were absolutely loyal. They implemented any orders perfectly and did not dare hold back at all.


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" A Guardian General was astonished. Even though they were tasked with guarding Mt. Jade Screen''s entrance, the two Guardian Generals could still recognize the famous entities in the Effulgent dominion.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, now that Mt. Jade Screen is in strict lockdown, please pardon us for not letting you in," said a Guardian General reverently. "We have already informed Master that you are here."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    As he stood in front of the Han family''s entrance, it appeared as though the Han family still had its footing. Furthermore, through his karmic ties, he could still sense that his daughter was safe and sound. He heaved a small sigh of relief.


    ¡­


    In a dark cave on a desolate planet, the Han family''s patriarch, Golden Placid, had stationed an avatar. If his true body encountered any danger and was unable to request help, his avatar would be able to seek aid for him.


    He had white beard and hair, his long brows reaching down to his chest.


    At that moment, the space in front of him had rippled open. It was connected to a distant void. On the other end was a palace inside the Heavenly Courts, and a Heavenly Courts general was standing there.


    "Uncle-Master, my brother Golden Maple was instantly defeated. His avatar has dissipated, and failed to tell me anything about the murderer in time. It is evident that the murderer''s strength far exceeds Golden Maple''s," said Golden Placid hurriedly. "After Golden Maple''s avatar dissipated, it did not take long for the Heart Lamp he left in the family clan to extinguish. Clearly, he is dead. This murderer had spoiled my Han family''s plans numerous times, to the point of faking his weakness, pretending to be weaker than Golden Maple. The goal was likely to lure both of us brothers to join forces to deal with him¡­ As for his actual strength, he is likely at the half-step Ancestral Fiend realm for him to finish my brother in one strike."


    "Such ruthlessness. Not only has he killed my brother, he has also killed numerous immortals of my Han family. Every injustice has its perpetrator, every debt has its debtor. Even if us brothers had a grudge with him, he could have just sought revenge on us. Why did he have to attack the immortals of my Han family? Many of those immortals come from the surrounding worlds and had pledged allegiance to my Han family."


    "To implicate the innocent in such a manner, it appears to be the act of a fiend," said Golden Placid immediately.


    Fiends were the common enemy of multiple factions!


    "Disciple-Nephew Golden Placid, rest assured. I will immediately inform the Effulgent dominion''s General Bai," said the Heavenly Courts general with a smile. "The Heavenly Courts have stationed troops in the Effulgent dominion and they are led by General Bai. He has more than ten thousand Heavenly troops stationed in the Effulgent dominion and has autonomy, so there''s no need for him to report to his superiors before he sends troops to the Jade Screen world. As for me, if I were to send troops to the Effulgent dominion, I would need to inform the Marshal. If even more troops are needed, Jade Emperor would have to be informed."


    "General Bai''s arrival should be enough," said Golden Placid immediately.


    "He has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal and leads the Heavenly troops¡­ Even if he encounters ordinary Ancestral Fiends, he will still be able to withstand them. Your Jade Screen world is a Small World, so Ancestral Fiends aren''t able to descend with their true bodies. I believe it will be enough if General Bai were to go to you. However, General Bai is a Green Touring Palace disciple, while we are from the Eight Scenic Palace of the Grand Supreme lineage. There is still some estrangement due to the war of the three factions back then, but on account of our civil ties, he will go. However, you have to show him some respect and entertain him well. If he doesn''t place importance on the matter, your Han family will be in trouble," said the general.


    "Uncle-Master, don''t worry. I understand all of that. Please quickly send General Bai the request. I''m afraid any delay would lead to unforeseen circumstances," said General Bai immediately.


    "I have already sent him the message while speaking to you," said the general with a smile. "He said that he has begun monitoring the Jade Screen world. Furthermore, he has begun mustering the Heavenly troops. After all, even though the ten thousand troops stationed in the Effulgent dominion, most of them spend their time cultivating. To suddenly muster the troops requires time. Secondly, he still can''t ascertain who the enemy is that you are facing in the Jade Screen world. He cannot easily send the troops as a result. Once the murderer appears, he shall lead the troops to the Jade Screen world."


    "Alright," replied Golden Placid.


    General Bai obviously could not send his troops when the enemy''s identity was still unknown.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere in the Han family''s Mt. Jade Screen in the Jade Screen world.


    The Han family''s headquarters.


    Golden Placid''s true body was standing in front of an ancestral shrine. He looked at the various Heart Lamps, and among them, the Heart Lamp that belonged to his brother, Golden Maple, had extinguished.


    All he could do was look at it silently.


    He had great talent in cultivation from a young age. Along the way, he took good care of his younger siblings, guiding them onto the path of cultivation. Over time, only his younger brother, Golden Maple, was able to follow in his footsteps. He even chanced upon rare encounters. They reached the ninth and eighth firmament Skyimmortal realms respectively. They established the Han family which was an illustrious family clan in the Effulgent dominion. They ruled over dozens of neighboring worlds and countless cultivators had pledged their allegiance.


    But now¡­


    His brother was dead.


    "I should have stopped you. After such a long period of peace, I have let down my guard," muttered Golden Placid. "Little Maple, once I resolve this crisis, I will immediately begin searching for you. Even if I have to traverse the Three Realms, I will find your reincarnation."


    After transcending the Heavenly Tribulation, it implied that one would share the same age as the heavens. As such, their names would be struck off from the records of life and death.


    If mortal Earth Immortals were to reincarnate, it would be recorded in the records of life and death.


    However, Skyimmortals had no such records.


    Furthermore, the higher the combat level, the more damaging it was to the soul. When mortals fought, no matter what attacks they delivered, the soul would remain intact.


    At the level of Essence Souls, one''s soul would become weak, but the soul''s fundamental strength would remain intact.


    For ordinary Skyimmortals, the damage to their soul''s fundamental strength was small as well.


    However, the damage increased with increasing realms.


    At the Golden Immortal or Ancestral Fiend level, it was possible to completely wipe out a soul, leaving behind a wisp of True Spirit for reincarnation. Even the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestors were unable to find these reincarnations.


    Golden Maple was an eighth firmament Skyimmortal. To be able to kill him in one strike implied the horrific strength of the murderer. The damage to the soul would also be tremendous. It would leave an extremely weak soul for reincarnation. Therefore, finding the reincarnation would be extremely difficult. Of course, it was much better than finding the reincarnation of a True Spirit.


    "Master, Sword Immortal Qin is outside," sounded a voice.


    "Qin Yun?" Golden Placid jolted out of his memories. He was in control of the entire family clan''s array, so he immediately sensed the entrance.


    He gave a command with a thought.


    The Heaven and Earth powers gathered as an avatar manifested at the entrance.


    ******


    Qin Yun waited by the entrance. The two Guardian Generals appeared very respectful as they stood to the side. Following that, the Heaven and Earth powers manifested into an avatar.


    "Greetings, Sword Immortal Qin," said Golden Placid''s avatar.


    "Daoist Golden Placid, what happened?" Qin Yun asked immediately. "Why the tight security?"


    "My brother, Golden Maple, has reincarnated," said Golden Placid softly.


    Qin Yun was astounded. "Reincarnated?"


    "Let''s talk inside." Golden Placid appeared calm, but his eyes were filled with deep sorrow.


    After entering, they flew side by side.


    "Who''s the murderer?" inquired Qin Yun. "The Grand Magus warned me that there is huge danger enveloping the Han family. It might even implicate my daughter. I see that my daughter is still fine, that implies that the danger has not fully reared its head."


    "I suspect it''s a half-step Ancestral Fiend," said Golden Placid. "Of course, it''s only a suspicion. I have no idea who the murderer is or what strength he possesses."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you shouldn''t have come." Golden Placid shook his head. "Now that my Han family is stuck in this maelstrom, danger might happen at any moment. By coming here, I''m afraid we''ll implicate you."


    "My daughter is here. How can I not come?" said Qin Yun.


    "Sorry for implicating your daughter as well," said Golden Placid. "I had no choice but to immediately seal the void since danger might strike at any moment. I didn''t have the time to slowly open a void passageway to send your daughter away."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, might I ask why you suddenly came to my Han family? Few people outside know of what happened to my Han family," inquired Golden Placid. "I just made a request for reinforcements, so there are a select few people who know about it in the Effulgent dominion."


    "A Grand Magus sensed that my daughter is in danger, so I came."


    "A Grand Magus sensed it¡­" Golden Placid''s expression changed drastically. "Your daughter is very safe in Mt. Jade Screen, but for the Grand Magus to sense danger, does it mean that Mt. Jade Screen will not hold?"


    This left Golden Placid uneasy.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, your daughter is residing in that compound. Please excuse my absence," said Golden Placid''s avatar.


    "Please, go ahead." Qin Yun nodded.


    Golden Placid''s avatar dissipated.


    Qin Yun turned his head and looked far into the distance. The Han family had a long history after all. There were countless buildings on Mt. Jade Screen, and in a courtyard not far from him, he saw a young couple chatting. One of them was his daughter.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun streaked across the area as a stream of light before descending into the courtyard. Qin Yiyi and Han Lin turned their heads to watch him.


    "Yiyi," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Dad!" Qin Yiyi revealed a look of pleasant surprise as she flew over immediately. "Why are you here? I tried contacting you, but it was impossible."


    Qin Yun stroked his daughter''s head with a smile.


    With him here, there was no one who could harm his daughter.


    "Uncle Qin." Han Lin immediately bowed in nervousness. This was the first time he was meeting Yiyi''s father.


    ¡­


    Just ten minutes after Qin Yun met his daughter.


    "Hahah, my preparations are done. It''s time to take action." Zhuhou appeared above Mt. Jade Screen and looked down below. His eyes were filled with excited anticipation.

 533 Qin Yun Attacks

    Chapter 533: Qin Yun Attacks


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Up!"


    With a thought from Zhuhou, all the array flags and array disks positioned across a region five thousand kilometers across were activated. It caused sudden changes to various regions¡ªthe rivers, mountains, plains, cities¡­ All of them underwent severe changes.


    "Giddy up! Giddy up! Giddy up!"


    On a road fifteen hundred kilometers away from Mt. Jade Screen, there were several people galloping on horseback when they suddenly saw the scene in front of them change. The road ahead of them turned into a raging river. "Hold! Hold! Hold!" These people immediately stopped their galloping horses in fright. The steeds were somewhat taken aback as well. Some even frantically retreated. "What''s going on? We were charging forward when we suddenly arrived by a riverside. This is¡­ The Dongchang River! It should be a hundred kilometers away from us! How is this possible!?"


    ¡­


    "I was heading to the latrine, but why am I on the streets?" A fatty stared flabbergasted while clutching his stomach, in a hurry to head for the latrine. He looked at the flourishing streets around him. "This is Ancient Boat City?"


    ¡­


    "Ahhh! Help!" There were people who were walking who suddenly appeared in midair. They were now plummeting straight down.


    ¡­


    In an area spanning five thousand kilometers, the void had turned topsy-turvy. Like a jigsaw, it had shattered into hundreds of pieces that needed to be pieced together again!


    "Very good. The Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array is done setting up." Zhuhou sensed the array''s activation. "Unfortunately, every time I devour the lives of a world, it incurs the wrath of the Heavenly Courts. The Heavenly troops come to pursue me, and I have to abandon the array flags and disks I set up every time."


    "I have to have my fill from this Jade Screen world this time!"


    Zhuhou swooped down immediately.


    Furry tentacles grew out from behind him, each several kilometers long. They stabbed straight at the array layers of Mt. Jade Screen.


    ******


    In a tiny yard in Mt. Jade Screen''s Han family.


    Qin Yiyi was having a casual chat with his daughter, Yiyi. As for the young man named Han Lin, he was standing in a corner looking a little nervous.


    "Dad, according to Double Wood, even Immortal Golden Maple of the Han family has been killed," said Qin Yiyi. "Who is the murderer, to have such powerful strength? Besides that, what grudge does he have with the Han family?"


    Han Lin pricked his ears, for he too wished to know who the murderer was.


    "The person''s strength is very high. They''re at least stronger than both Immortal Golden Placid and his brother," said Qin Yun with a smile. "As for who it is, we will know very soon."


    "Know very soon?" Han Lin could not help but ask.


    "He will attack," said Qin Yun.


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The reverberations from a violent quake came from afar.


    "It''s here!" Qin Yun turned his head to take a look. He saw at a glance twelve gigantic tentacles stretch out from the crowds beyond the periphery of Mt. Jade Screen. They stabbed at the array formation layers of Mt. Jade Screen again and again. The tentacles did not seem to stab at very fast speeds, but just by making contact they produced holes in the array formation. The tentacles would then stretch inside and continue cracking open a deeper array formation.


    The array formation was like snow in front of boiling water against these tentacles. The barriers easily melted to give way to holes.


    The arrays could not put up any resistance!


    "These tentacles?" Han Lin and Qin Yiyi looked at the terrifying tentacles. They were taller than mountains and sent chills into their very hearts. The terror of their might made them feel like they would be pulverized if they came close to any of the secondary shockwaves.


    "It''s him? Fiend King Zhuhou, one of the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage?" Qin Yun frowned slightly.


    ¡­


    "It''s Fiend King Zhuhou!" Golden Placid, who was presiding over all the array formations of Mt. Jade Screen, watched as the color in his face instantly drained. "How could it be him? Does he have his sights on my Han family or the entire Jade Screen world?"


    "I have to ward him off."


    "Are the family clan''s array formations able to withstand his attacks?"


    There were still quite a number of half-step mighty figures in the Three Realms.


    However, the shock and awe they delivered varied drastically.


    The lineages known as fiends among fiends¡ªthe spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage¡ªhad half-step Ancestral Fiends which were terrifyingly difficult to handle. All of them had committed grievous sins. Even ordinary Ancestral Fiends would not have sins comparable to theirs. After all, many of the fiends from other lineages still cared about karma. Only these two lineages sought to eat as much as possible or commit as many atrocities as possible.


    The Heavenly Courts would also pursue them with all their might!


    After all, killing them meant great merit! It would increase the light that providence shined on the Heavenly Courts.


    "Even with the Heavenly Courts wanting the heads of the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage, it is still very difficult to kill him. He actually came to my Jade Screen world?" Golden Placid knew his foe very well. "This is a huge calamity. Not only my family clan, even the entire Jade Screen world is finished."


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The array formations which the Han family had set up over years were constantly being destroyed, and the speed of their destruction was extremely fast.


    "I can''t stop him at all!" Golden Placid turned frantic.


    "The spirit-devouring lineage is best at devouring! A half-step Ancestral Fiend can even devour an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. My family clan''s array formation might be good and weak in different areas, but it will still succumb to his devouring." Golden Placid knew this.


    Legend had it that the Ancestral Fiend who established the spirit-devouring lineage had even eaten a portion of the Buddhists'' cornerstone treasure! If the Buddhists had been any more careless, the entire cornerstone treasure would have been eaten clean. The spirit-devouring lineage''s ''appetite'' was known to be most horrifying in the Three Realms! Without even mentioning Ancestral Fiends, just these half-step Ancestral Fiends had extremely terrifying devouring abilities.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Heavenly Courts. In front of North Star Palace.


    Several generals were stationed here as they watched over the various regions of the Three Realms.


    "Effulgent dominion''s Jade Screen world just underwent a huge fluctuation. Quickly investigate!" A command was given.


    "Order received."


    A spear-wielding general stood in front of the palace as a third eye opened at his glabella. He looked far into the distance at the Effulgent dominion''s Jade Screen world.


    "Oh?" The general instantly noticed the effeminate man standing in front of Mt. Jade Screen. Growing on his back were twelve long tentacles that fervently attacked the array.


    "Fiend King Zhuhou?" the general could not help but exclaim. He immediately turned around and ran into the North Star Palace to report the matter.


    "Fiend King Zhuhou has appeared again?" The generals beside him were alarmed as well.


    Although they watched over the Three Realms, they showed no concern towards typical matters. However, for Fiend King Zhuhou to dare appear, it meant that the Heavenly Courts had a chance of catching him!


    ¡­


    Jade Screen world, Mt. Jade Screen''s Han family.


    "Boom!"


    The tentacles which were taller than mountains flailed manically as they destroyed the array.


    Countless mortals and hundreds of immortals inside Mt. Jade Screen were reeling in fear.


    "It''s Fiend King Zhuhou. It''s Fiend King Zhuhou."


    "We''re doomed. Doomed!"


    "The Han family is finished. The Jade Screen world is finished as well."


    The immortals who knew of Fiend King Zhuhou were all appalled as they reeled in despair. All half-step Ancestral Fiends of the spirit-devouring lineage had grown stronger from the repeated pursuits of the Heavenly Courts, so they were naturally very terrifying. He was not something their Han family could stand against.


    Han Lin and Qin Yiyi similarly felt greatly distressed.


    "It''s too fast. Too fast." Golden Placid was invoking all his strength, his eyes suffusing redness as a result. "In about fifteen seconds, the array formation will be completely cracked. When will General Bai arrive?"


    ¡­


    As for Qin Yun, he was watching this scene calmly.


    "Fiend King Zhuhou? With my present strength, defeating him is easy, but I won''t be able to kill him," thought Qin Yun with a frown. He naturally wished to rid the realms of such Fiend Kings that brought Armageddon to worlds; unfortunately, typical half-step Ancestral Fiends would place great emphasis on their life-preservation abilities. They could even exchange a few blows with mighty figures. As for Fiend King Zhuhou, his life-preservation abilities were even more effective than most!


    In the Heavenly Courts, there were ninth firmament Skyimmortals who matched mighty figures. But even when they led the pursuit with the Heavenly troops, Zhuhou had still managed to escape them.


    Qin Yun judged from his intelligence that he similarly was unable to kill Zhuhou.


    "Yiyi, let''s go out for a walk." Qin Yun took his daughter''s hand.


    "Go out for a walk?" Qin Yiyi and Han Lin were taken aback.


    Swoosh.


    Just as his sentence faded, Qin Yun rapidly flew out with Qin Yiyi in tow. Since he was going to attack Zhuhou, Qin Yun naturally had to bring his daughter with him, ensuring that she stayed close to him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" Golden Placid, who was presiding over the array formation, immediately sent a voice transmission. "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m truly sorry for implicating both you and your daughter. Quickly escape from the opposite side of Mt. Jade Screen. However, the void outside has been completely sealed by Fiend King Zhuhou. You have to be careful while escaping."


    "There''s no need to worry. However, fellow Daoist Golden Placid, don''t let your array formation interfere with my attacks." As Qin Yun spoke, he flew out of the various array formation layers with his daughter. Most of the exterior array formations had already been cracked open.


    After he flew out of the array formations, he faced the gigantic tentacles.


    "Dad." Qin Yiyi felt a little uneasy.


    "It''s quite troublesome to kill this spider, but defeating him will be easy." Qin Yun smiled at his daughter.


    Following that, resplendent stellar light permeated the vast region as infinitely dense stellar forces descended, spreading fifteen thousand kilometers across. It made Zhuhou, who was cracking the array, have a drastic change in expression. He obviously sensed the oppression from such a terrifying domain divine power.


    Divine power¡ªHeavenly Cycle Stellar Realm!


    "Qin Yun?" Zhuhou looked at Qin Yun who was holding his daughter''s hand and was somewhat alarmed. "Your Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm has already attained the phenomenal success stage?"


    "It looks like few in the Three Realms know of my phenomenal success attainment in my divine powers," said Qin Yun with a smile. Simultaneously, the Stellar Flying Swords formed around him. Qin Yiyi''s eyes lit up when she looked at the rich stellar forces which enveloped the area with the 360 Stellar Flying Swords.


    "Do you think you can stop me?" Zhuhou bellowed through a voice transmission.


    The twelve gigantic tentacles flailed maniacally at him.


    "You overestimate your abilities." Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords immediately flew out and formed swirling water flows. They danced around like heavenly rivers as many of the water flows fended off the twelve gigantic tentacles! No matter how the twelve tentacles attacked, to the point of managing to devour a few of the Stellar Flying Swords¡ªtwelve in a blink of an eye¡ªbut against 360 swords¡­ twelve was completely trivial. Furthermore, Qin Yun condensed another twelve Stellar Flying Swords with a mere thought.


    The Stellar Flying Swords were without end.


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    In the entire Mt. Jade Screen, hundreds of immortals, including Golden Placid, as well as Han Lin and company, saw this clearly.


    The twelve terrifying tentacles were completely defended against by the water flows created by the 360 Stellar Flying Swords, failing to even advance an inch.


    "He blocked it? He blocked it?" Golden Placid looked pleasantly surprised when he saw this.


    "Whoosh."


    Five thousand kilometers away, a company of soldiers appeared obstreperously in midair. They were led by half-step Golden Immortal, Senior Brother Wang Qian. He had troops stationed in the Effulgent dominion, and could have arrived very quickly if he came alone. However, mustering the troops naturally took him time. He had already arrived as fast as he could.

 534 Heavenly Troops

    Chapter 534: Heavenly Troops


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Fiend King Zhuhou is one of the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage. The Heavenly Courts will definitely send powerful generals to capture him. What we need to do is to stall him to the best of our abilities. Our mission is over once I buy enough time for the Heavenly Courts'' troops to arrive," General Wang Qian said. "Also, ahead is the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array set up by the Fiend King Zhuhou. None of you are to take independent action. Follow all military standard operating procedures."


    "Yes, General," several lieutenant generals behind him said respectfully.


    At that moment, General Wang Qian had amassed five thousand Heavenly troops. They rapidly flew into the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array, and although it was chaotic inside, General Wang Qian had long sensed the relatively shortest path, as he forged forward quickly.


    "Hmph!"


    Zhuhou shot a glance from afar as he let out a cold grunt.


    Immediately, the suppression in the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array greatly increased. Even with the military formation''s augmentation, many of the Heavenly troops felt weighed down as they flew much slower.


    "Ah!"


    "How heavy." These Heavenly troops found it onerous to proceed forward.


    But immediately, rich stellar forces enveloped each one of them, protecting their bodies and allowing them to completely ignore the void''s suppression.


    "Thank you, Junior Brother Qin," said Wang Qian smilingly via a voice transmission from afar.


    "It''s nothing." Qin Yun held his daughter''s hand in midair as he said with a smile.


    "A mere Essence Soul sword immortal wishes to use a divine power to match me?" When Zhuhou''s twelve tentacles failed to break through Qin Yun''s defense despite their relentless assaults, his express turned grotesque. With a whoosh, the twelve gigantic tentacles instantly retracted back into his body. His arms became a pair of large, colorful, and furry tentacles.


    These tentacles were even more massive, with even more terrifying might.


    "Begone!" The massive colorful tentacles thrust over, stabbing right into the water flows that appeared like divine rivers. Stellar Flying Swords in the form of water flows were shattered one after another, and as they shattered, the pair of tentacles continued advancing. It soon reached the Han family''s array formation and continued the array formation cracking!


    "Oh no."


    "He''s continuing to crack the array!" The immortals and Han family members in Mt. Jade Screen panicked.


    "Dad." Qin Yiyi gripped her father''s hand tightly, turning nervous.


    "The jaws of the spirit-devouring lineage are indeed powerful." Qin Yun mumbled silently upon seeing the situation pan out. "It''s said that half-step Ancestral Fiends of the spirit-devouring lineage are able to devour Connate Numinous treasures. My Stellar Flying Swords can''t stop him in any way."


    If he were so easily stalled, the Heavenly Courts would have long succeeded in its pursuits of him.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun immediately gave a command to the 360 Stellar Flying Swords, instantly forgoing the two tentacles. They began manifesting as a sword move as sword flashes gathered and formed a heavenly river that smote straight at Zhuhou''s body.


    Since he could not stop the tentacles, he dealt with the body directly!


    The spirit-devouring lineage were no Physical Establishing Sages. Their jaws were extremely sharp and resilient, but their bodies were relatively much weaker.


    "Oh? Darn it, Qin Yun keeps interfering with my plans." Zhuhou fumed. The twelve tentacles he usually released were good at both offense and defense, and drained very little Dharmic powers. The two arms that he manifested as tentacles now were powerful, but they drained a lot of his Dharmic powers. It was somewhat awkward using them for defense too.


    Zhuhou could only spare one tentacle to block the sword flash that came cleaving down like a heavenly river. The colorful tentacle bent from the strike.


    "Boom!"


    Even though Qin Yun was only using a portion of his strength, Zhuhou still felt wretched. "How are his sword moves so powerful? I can''t take it unless I use all my strength." He was forced to use both his massive tentacles to defend.


    The tentacles surrounded his body and created an impenetrable defense.


    But by doing so?


    There was no way for him to attack the array formation!


    "Darn it! Darn it!" Zhuhou fumed. He had been forced to protect himself from the relentless barrage of attacks from the sword flashes, leaving him no capacity to continue attacking Mt. Jade Screen.


    And at that moment¡ª


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and General Wang Qian, as well as Zhuhou, sensed a massive fluctuation in space beyond the Jade Screen world.


    In space outside the Jade Screen world.


    Soldiers from the Heavenly Courts appeared obstreperously. Leading them was a stocky ten-thousand-foot tall general. His wielded a double-bladed battle ax as huge as a mountain. Behind him were Heavenly troops who released powerful auras.


    "Mighty Miracle God?" Zhuhou''s pupils constricted.


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun looked over. "Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li''s vanguard, General Mighty Miracle God? This Mighty Miracle God is a descendant of Chaos Godfiends. He is a ninth firmament Skyimmortal of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage. He has immense strength, enough to match that of mighty figures! He is often the vanguard for various Heavenly Courts battles. Because of his impressive physical body, he is able to preserve his life even if he crosses the most formidable figures in the Three Realms."


    All vanguard generals in the Heavenly Courts had powerful physical bodies.


    Vanguards were the first to lead the charge.


    Those with weaker bodies? A single failure would mean losing their lives. These Physical Establishing Sages were truly real pieces of work. Even if they were no match for the enemy, they would be able to escape with their lives. Mighty Miracle God was one of the more famous ones.


    Ever since the establishment of the Heavenly Courts, Mighty Miracle God had often participated in battles across the Three Realms against fiendish demons. He had even crossed swords with pinnacle Ancestral Fiends. Regardless, for him to remain alive to this very day indicated his capabilities.


    "Mighty Miracle God is famous for being extremely strong. Together with the Heavenly Courts'' military formation, there is still some chance of slaying Zhuhou," thought Qin Yun. If there was no hope, the Heavenly Courts would not have sent Mighty Miracle God. "If I join forces with him, the chances of slaying Zhuhou will be higher."


    And in space just outside the Jade Screen world.


    Mighty Miracle God looked down, his eyes were icy-cold underneath his thick bushy eyebrows. He immediately shouted, "Set up the Inescapable Net Array!"


    "Yes!" "Yes!" "Yes!"¡­


    Seven generals under him led the Heavenly troops and began using Major Void Transference. They appeared all around the Jade Screen world.


    The Jade Screen world was a huge planet.


    Everyone on it¡­ was surrounded!


    "Set up the array!"


    The Heavenly troops joined forces and immediately set up the famous Inescapable Net Array which the Heavenly Courts used against fiendish demons.


    With this array, they could encompass a region of fifty thousand kilometers. Everything within would be trapped in the net.


    ¡­


    General Wang Qian was in no hurry as well. Since the Heavenly Courts had sent its troops, his company of Heavenly troops were nothing worth mentioning.


    "There''s really no way we compare to them. The seven generals under Mighty Miracle God are all able to cast the art of Major Void Transference," said a lieutenant general beside Wang Qian with a sigh.


    "Mighty Miracle God brought ten thousand Heavenly troops this time," said Wang Qian. "The weakest is already a sixth firmament Skyimmortal! There are over a hundred ninth firmament Skyimmortals. Seven of them are able to cast the art of Major Void Transference. Including Mighty Miracle God himself, that would be eight! As for us who station in the Effulgent dominion, ninety percent of our ten thousand Heavenly troops are only first or second firmament Skyimmortals."


    In terms of the level of eliteness, they were far inferior.


    "After all, they are under Heavenly King Li''s camp, while we are just some scattered Heavenly troops guarding a local area. How can we compare with them?"


    ¡­


    The moment the Inescapable Net Array was cast¡ª


    Terrifying fluctuations permeated an area spanning fifty thousand kilometers across. Its restraining abilities were even slightly better than Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    "It''s all because of Qin Yun that my plans are spoiled." Zhuhou glared hatefully at Qin Yun. "If not for him, the hundred immortals in Mt. Jade Screen would have been eaten by me."


    "Since Mighty Miracle God is here, it''s time to leave." Although Zhuhou felt indignant, he began to escape with his two gigantic arms protecting his body. Qin Yun immediately conjured numerous Stellar Flying Swords to stop him to the best of his abilities.


    Boom!


    Five thousand Heavenly troops led by Mighty Miracle God performed Major Void Transference and arrived outside the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array.


    "Roar!" Mighty Miracle God held his massive dual-bladed ax high and, augmented by the military formation of five thousand Heavenly troops behind him, he cleaved down mightily. He was well known for his formidable strength, so he was best at acting with force! The might of the cleave was considered rather powerful even among ordinary Golden Immortals.


    "Boom!"


    This cleave produced discernible black ripples wherever it passed. It caused the void to constantly collapse as more than five hundred kilometers of the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array was destroyed by the strike. The displayed might left Qin Yun somewhat alarmed.


    Mighty Miracle God quickly charged forward with his Heavenly troops.


    At the same time, he bellowed, "General Wang, stay to the side. Others who aren''t involved, retreat. Do not interfere in my ridding of this fiend!"


    The voice rumbled throughout the Jade Screen world.


    "Dad, he''s asking us to retreat." Qin Yiyi saw Mighty Miracle God charging over with the Heavenly troops from afar. The terrifying might tightened her heart. The might of true elite Heavenly troops of the Heavenly Courts was enough to make ordinary cultivators go limp.


    "It looks like he finds us a hindrance." Qin Yun smiled. He knew that Mighty Miracle God did not hold back in his attacks, so he was afraid of implicating the innocent.


    "Mighty Miracle God, this is my junior brother, Qin Yun. He is also a cultivator of Green Touring Palace." General Wang Qian knew Mighty Miracle God''s rashness, so as he led his subordinates in a retreat, he sent a voice transmission.


    "Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun?" Mighty Miracle God shot a glance into the distance and nodded slightly before ignoring him. He was a vanguard general of the Heavenly Courts. Why would he have to care about ordinary half-step Golden Immortals? It was only because Qin Yun came from Green Touring Palace that he had to place a little more importance on Qin Yun. Following that, he continued fixating his gaze at Zhuhou. This was his reason for coming down to this realm!

 535 Ability To Restrain

    Chapter 535: Ability To Restrain


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Zhuhou fled quickly as he flew into the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array.


    "Yiyi, let''s follow." Qin Yun held his daughter''s hand and stepped onto the Misty Rain Sword to enter a high-speed pursuit. Although Qin Yiyi was still baffled, she obediently followed her father''s instructions.


    "Still not giving up?" Zhuhou turned his head back and shot his pursuer a cold glance.


    The void was already turned on its head. Despite Zhuhou flying a small distance ahead, he would suddenly appear in another space more than five hundred kilometers away. A sharp turn to the left would make him appear hundreds of kilometers away again. Another right turn would send him a few hundred kilometers. Zhuhou had set up The Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array himself, and had long prepared an escape route.


    Although Mighty Miracle God and the Heavenly troops were destroying the massive array, the void remained sealed. All they could do was engage in a high-speed pursuit. Before they crossed the five-hundred-kilometer mark¡­ Zhuhou had already flew out of the entire Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array''s domain and emerged high into the clouds.


    As for Qin Yun, he followed Zhuhou''s trajectory. He went left and right as well. He exited the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array on the heels of Zhuhou.


    "Disperse." With a thought from Zhuhou, the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array naturally dispersed. The void returned to normal, preventing Mighty Miracle God and the Heavenly troops from taking the shortest path.


    "Fiend King Zhuhou, you won''t be able to escape," roared Mighty Miracle God. "Restrain him!"


    "Yes!" "Yes!"


    In space outside the Jade Screen world, several generals were powering the Inescapable Net Array.


    Sou!


    Golden filaments, which were criss-crossed into a net, directly appeared where Zhuhou was, instantly ensnaring him.


    "It''s the Inescapable Net Array again." Zhuhou had a nasty expression. "It''s useless. It can''t stop me." His two furry and colorful tentacles tore open the golden net and he flew forward as he destroyed the net. However, his speed suffered as a result. The Inescapable Net Array''s original domain suppression plus the net''s restraints made his speed only thirty percent of his top speed.


    "As long as I can fly out of this Small World, Master will help me leave." Zhuhou was extremely confident. As a member of the spirit-devouring lineage, he had considerably powerful jaws which allowed him to devour Connate Numinous treasures. His master was even more terrifying! As long as he could make it out of the Small World, his master would be able to take him away¡­ It would be difficult even for Golden Immortals from the Heavenly Courts to stop that.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The golden nets restrained Zhuhou time and time again.


    Qin Yun and his daughter followed closely behind.


    "Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun." Mighty Miracle God was rapidly closing in, but when he saw this, he bellowed angrily via voice transmission, "Didn''t I say to fall back!? You will only get in the way."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll stay a distance away. I won''t obstruct you and your troops," said Qin Yun smilingly with a voice transmission. However, he still slowly followed Zhuhou and maintained a certain distance.


    Zhuhou''s two tentacles were considered very powerful.


    Qin Yun also knew that there was no chance of him killing Zhuhou even if he used all his strength. He did not even dare use his Intrinsic Flying Sword, afraid that it would end up being chipped away by the ''devouring.''


    "The sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage have committed atrocious sins. They have committed sins even worse than some Ancestral Fiends. The number of lives they have devoured are innumerable. Regardless, I have to kill him this time," thought Qin Yun. "My strength wouldn''t be enough to do it by myself. I have to rely on Mighty Miracle God, as well as the Inescapable Net Array established by the Heavenly troops. With our collective strength¡­ there is a chance of a successful kill."


    "These Fiend Kings are all very careful. Furthermore, every time they make an appearance, they are pursued. Therefore, they only take action once in a very long time. If we miss this time, who knows when the next window of opportunity to kill such a Fiend King will appear."


    Qin Yun was bent on killing Zhuhou, so although Mighty Miracle God was not being polite at all, all he did was smile.


    "Phew¨C"


    The five thousand Heavenly troops led by Mighty Miracle God finally joined the chase, but Zhuhou had already flow several thousand kilometers away.


    "Hide further away." Mighty Miracle God shot a glance at Qin Yun before continuing straight for Zhuhou.


    "Die." Mighty Miracle God roared angrily as he brandished his dual-bladed ax. The cleave was augmented by the entire military arsenal as the void collapsed with a tumultuous boom. Due to the golden net''s entanglement, Zhuhou was flying slower, so he had no choice but to fend off the attack.


    Rumble!


    The strike which combined the strength of five thousand Heavenly troops was indeed terrifying. It cleaved right onto Zhuhou''s tentacles.


    The tentacles were extremely tensile as they managed to withstand the strike, but the remnant forces which blasted out as a shockwave ended up inundating Zhuhou''s body. The other parts of his body were far inferior to his tentacles.


    "Pfft." Zhuhou''s face turned pale as blood trickled down the corner of his mouth.


    "If not for the combined forces of the five-thousand-strong Heavenly troops, would a mere Mighty Miracle God be able to injure me?" Zhuhou was secretly vexed.


    As he resisted, Zhuhou continued flying.


    "Take this." Beside Mighty Miracle God, another general threw out a black chain which rapidly expanded to encompass a region of five hundred kilometers as it circled around Zhuhou in an attempt to bind him.


    Another general threw a bell. A gentle shake let out pearly music which inundated Zhuhou''s body, encroaching straight for his Essence Soul.


    "Crack!"


    Zhuhou''s two tentacles easily tore through the black chains, but the broken chain rapidly mended itself and enveloped him.


    The music of the bell left Zhuhou''s face gruesome and somewhat in pain.


    "Now take this." Mighty Miracle God cleaved with his mighty ax, carrying the power of the five-thousand-strong Heavenly troops.


    ¡­


    The net, chain, and bell restrained Zhuhou in numerous ways as Mighty Miracle God unleashed a barrage of attack with the troops'' augmentation.


    However, Zhuhou forcefully defended against the attack and constantly flew high into the sky.


    He rapidly covered five thousand kilometers with the aid of the Void Topsy-turvy Grand Array and had reached high into the clouds. While Mighty Miracle God engaged in pursuit, he traversed nearly twenty-five hundred kilometers again, defending and flying simultaneously.


    "Another four thousand kilometers before I can fly out of the Jade Screen world." Zhuhou kept flying upwards as he constantly tore through the clouds. Even the numerous attacks from the Heavenly troops only managed to slow him down a little.


    "Another thirty-five hundred kilometers." Zhuhou pressed on.


    "Another three thousand kilometers." Zhuhou''s injuries were worsening as another mouthful of blood spewed out. Mighty Miracle God continued attacking fervently.


    "Twenty-five hundred kilometers." Although Zhuhou''s injuries looked severe, he still took out a blood-colored pill and consumed it, allowing his body to rapidly recover to peak condition.


    Even though the might of Mighty Miracle God and the five-thousand-strong Heavenly troops was overwhelming, to the point of worsening Zhuhou''s injuries, to enervate him would require a lengthy period of time.


    After all, heavy injuries could be healed with pills.


    As for expending his pills? Who knew how many life-preservation pills Zhuhou had?


    "Two thousand kilometers." A glint suffused in Zhuhou''s eyes as the clouds thinned. He could already see the vast starry sky, and he was just two thousand kilometers away from completely escaping the Small World''s confines. Out of it, the Heavenly Dao no longer suppressed the area, and his master could take him away.


    "It''s useless. These Heavenly troops from the Heavenly Courts remain incompetent as usual." Zhuhou smugly shot a glance at Mighty Miracle God who was chasing behind him with a ferocious expression.


    Mighty Miracle God was indeed anxious and angry.


    "The spirit-devouring lineage and spirit-devouring lineage are known as fiends among fiends. These fiends have ludicrous life-preservation means." Mighty Miracle God was furious. Experts from the spirit-devouring lineage would cultivate a particular part of the body to exaggerated proportions. Just a half-step Ancestral Fiend would be able to devour a Connate Numinous treasure. On the contrary, the sea of blood lineage experts were not that ridiculous. Their frontal combat strength was not that powerful, but the sea of blood lineage were nearly unkillable. The difficulty of killing them¡­ was even higher than killing experts from the spirit-devouring lineage.


    "I refuse to believe he has many of those pills that can rejuvenate a half-step Ancestral Fiend''s Dharmic powers. He will definitely run out of them soon." Mighty Miracle God brandished his ax in derangement.


    "Haha, another fifteen hundred kilometers." Zhuhou turned increasingly excited as his escape was near at hand.


    Mighty Miracle God as well as the Heavenly troops could only pursue in indignation at full strength.


    But at that moment¡ª


    Qin Yun, who was holding his daughter Yiyi''s hand, shook his head slightly. "From the looks of it, these are all the means available to Mighty Miracle God and his troops. Even for the Heavenly Courts, it''s not easy for them to take down a Fiend King of the spirit-devouring lineage in a Small World."


    "Fifteen hundred kilometers. It''s time to take action." Qin Yun waited no longer.


    "Out."


    360 resplendent Stellar Flying Swords materialized as they flew out and headed straight for Zhuhou.


    "Don''t disturb us." Mighty Miracle God could not help but turn his head back as he angrily reprimanded upon seeing that. He was already feeling vexed that his mission was about to end in failure. He had also long instructed all uninvolved personnel to retreat and had till tolerated Qin Yun''s tailing. Now, Qin Yun was even making trouble for him?


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun ignored him.


    As the 360 Stellar Flying Swords pursued Zhuhou, the sword flashes swished into water, and instantly formed a gigantic sphere that trapped Zhuhou completely like a cage.


    This move was one of the five major sword moves Qin Yun created¡ªWater Cage!


    Water Cage was like the perfected Heavenly Cycles, an unending circulation.


    "Back then, the Heavenly troops had not arrived and I was afraid that you would flee after I had alarmed you previously. Therefore, I only used thirty percent of my strength. Now, take my strongest move for trapping enemies." Qin Yun was rather confident.


    His great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, was a divine power best for trapping his enemies. The ancient Celestial Thearch had mainly relied on his 360 stars to trap his enemies. Even if the 360 stars had to advance and fill the breach from the fallen stars, they would still create an obstructive effect since the numbers were sufficient. The ancient Celestial Thearch had relied on an array formation, while Qin Yun relied on his sword arts.


    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords cast Water Cage.


    It was a great divine power best at trapping the enemy! Matched with a sword move which was best at trapping enemies, few ordinary Golden Immortal mighty figures would be able to match Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Zhuhou still attempted to destroy all obstructions ahead of him with his furry tentacles, but this time, although he tore through the aqueous layers, there was just too much. The obstructive force was also immense. He expended a great deal of strength before he tore open the massive Water Cage, but immediately, water swooshed over and formed the Water Cage again.


    "Back when I used all my strength, didn''t I quickly crack open his sword move? Why is the obstructive force so much higher now? Was he hiding his strength previously?" Zhuhou was alarmed.


    Under the obstruction of the Water Cage, Zhuhou''s flight was reduced to a turtle''s crawl. It was less than a thousandth of his top speed.


    "He''s that good at trapping enemies? It''s far stronger than the Inescapable Net Array of my Heavenly troops. Perhaps, he is few and far between among Golden Immortal mighty figures." Mighty Miracle God widened his eyes upon seeing that, feeling astounded and happy.


    "Brother Qin Yun, Brother Qin Yun. Sorry for what I said before. After we kill this Zhuhou, I''ll provide you compensation," said Mighty Miracle God quickly in joy.


    "Let''s kill this Fiend King first," said Qin Yun with a smile.

 536 Roping In

    Chapter 536: Roping In


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Yes, yes. Let''s kill Fiend King Zhuhou first." Mighty Miracle God laughed out loud as he brandished his mountain-sized dual-bladed ax for another strike which was augmented by his military formation. He was, after all, equivalent to a mighty figure and was rather famous in the entire Three Realms. Although his moves were known for being arbitrary, they were still very intricate.


    The strikes were controlled, like the skillful dismembering of an ox by a butcher. It only worsened Zhuhou''s injuries.


    "No! No¡ª"


    Zhuhou desperately tried to escape, but the Water Cage was too persistent! Even when he did tear through the Water Cage with great difficulty, a new Water Cage would form!


    The Heavenly Courts also had Connate Numinous treasures used for the capturing of enemies, but to use such a treasure against Zhuhou might result in him using his tentacles to destroy a tiny portion of it with his ''devouring.'' As for offensive weapons, weapons like Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword, Mighty Miracle God''s dual-bladed ax, they had to avoid the tip of Zhuhou''s two tentacles.


    The ax cleaved down on Zhuhou again and again.


    His body was relatively weaker, so all Zhuhou could do was wrap his body with his two tentacles to protect himself, so that he could resist every strike.


    "Flying in this manner is too slow. There''s no way I can escape. To survive, I need to kill that Qin Yun." A fierce glint flashed in Zhuhou''s eyes.


    Boom!


    Once again, the two tentacle tips tore through the Water Cage with great difficulty.


    "Swoosh!"


    Zhuhou widened his mouth as a blood-colored filament shot out. It streaked out at a tremendous speed as its trajectory headed for Qin Yun.


    "Be careful." Mighty Miracle God was alarmed, but he had no time to stop it.


    Qin Yun, who held his daughter''s hand in midair, showed no signs of anxiety. With the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s domain divine powers, he could clearly sense that the blood-colored beam was a blood-colored nail.


    "A Blood Malice Soul Nail of the fiendish way?" With a thought, Qin Yun conjured a stellar robe which appeared over his body. It was resplendently blinding. Simultaneously, the region a thousand feet around Qin Yun formed a world in and of itself.


    It was the phenomenal success stage of the great divine power, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes'' World Descent!


    "Puah¡ª"


    The blood-colored beam stabbed through the dark world''s boundary. The world was especially robust, allowing it to stop the beam in its tracks to reveal its true form! The blood-colored nail had mystical runic patterns on it. It seemed to defiantly attempt to tear through the world.


    Qin Yiyi could see the blood-colored nail clearly while standing beside her father.


    "Dad, what''s that?" Qin Yiyi was alarmed.


    "Blood Malice Soul Nail. It''s refined from a sea of malice blood by a user of the sea of blood lineage. It''s a weapon that can only be used once and is extremely sinister," said Qin Yun. The nail kept trying to tear through the world''s membrane, but after being stopped in its tracks for a few seconds, it finally exploded into powder.


    "Another great divine power?" There was despair inn Zhuhou''s eyes when he saw this. "And it''s a great divine power that completely protects his body?"


    "With these two great divine powers, he will go places in the Three Realms." Mighty Miracle God was also astounded when he saw this. These two great divine powers were complementary skills, things that even Golden Immortals and Buddhas would want. They were extremely practical in battle.


    ¡­


    After Zhuhou''s desperate strike failed to even tear through the world produced by the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, he fell into despair.


    He struggled to fly.


    Fifteen hundred kilometers¡­


    To a half-step Ancestral Fiend, that was a very short distance.


    But under the restraint of the Water Cage, it was too far despite him being able to continue flying as he struggled. It was just too far. The fifteen hundred kilometers were like a unsurmountable gap.


    "Hahaha." Mighty Miracle God guffawed as he cleaved down again and again with his ax.


    Zhuhou struggled as he ate pills to withstand the barrage of attacks. He had quite a number of pills on him which could restore his Dharmic powers.


    But one pill after another¡­


    Under Mighty Miracle God''s and the five thousand Heavenly troops'' relentless assault, he managed to last nearly an hour! After flying for about ninety kilometers, he finally expended all his pills, and his body could no longer take it.


    "It''s all because of you. You!" Zhuhou looked hatefully at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, my master will avenge me."


    "Qin Yun is a Green Touring Palace disciple. Why would he be afraid of you fiends?" scoffed Mighty Miracle God from the side.


    Green Touring Palace was well known to have safety in numbers!


    Qin Yun held his daughter''s hand and watched coldly from afar. He said icily, "Fiend King Zhuhou, a single world has billions of lives. Having cultivated to this day, you have consumed the lives of seven Small Worlds. The Heavenly Dao demands recompense, and today, you shall pay with your life."


    "Hahaha, they were only ants. I only hate the fact that I''m not strong enough. If I was, how could your combined strength be my match?" Zhuhou roared.


    Bam!


    With the dual-bladed ax cleaving down once again, Zhuhou''s body jolted as his eyes widened into circles. Following that, his was body turned to dust, leaving only two ten-foot-long furry and colorful tentacles behind.


    Fiend King Zhuhou, one of the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage, had perished in the Effulgent dominion''s Jade Screen world!


    He was slain through the combined forces of Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun and Mighty Miracle God, who led a grand total of ten thousand Heavenly troops!


    And from that moment forth¡­


    The spirit-devouring lineage only had fifteen Fiend Kings!


    "Boom!" Qin Yun felt the Merit Glow on him increase immensely. It had thickened greatly.


    "I''m still a huge way aways from Merit Gilded Glow. If I had slain Zhuhou by myself, perhaps, I could have a Merit Gilded Glow to protect myself immediately," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    At that moment, the Heavenly Courts was naturally watching the battle from afar. The fiends, such as Zhuhou''s master, were also watching the battle. The fiends had no way of rescuing him since a Small World only allowed, at most, the action of ninth firmament Skyfiends. Furthermore, there was the Inescapable Net Array set up, so the Heavenly Courts had the first-mover advantage!


    At that moment, Mighty Miracle God was filled with glee. "This Zhuhou has finally been killed."


    "Mighty Miracle God." A voice suddenly boomed in Mighty Miracle God''s ears.


    "Heavenly King." Mighty Miracle God was alarmed. It was his boss, Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li from the Heavenly Courts.


    An order in the form of a voice transmission was transmitted across distant space.


    Mighty Miracle God was enlightened.


    "Hahahaha!" Mighty Miracle God flew towards Qin Yun with several generals behind him. He laughed boisterously and appeared extremely affable. "Brother Qin Yun, it''s all thanks to you. If not for you, we would have failed and had to watch that Fiend King escape helplessly."


    Qin Yun sighed emotively to himself.


    Mighty Miracle God had appeared domineeringly as the Heavenly Courts''s vanguard general and thought nothing of him. Now, he was chuckling at him and appearing somewhat humble?


    "I was only lending a hand. If not for you and the Heavenly troops'' combined forces, we would not have been able to kill Fiend King Zhuhou," said Qin Yun. After the two tentacles focused on protection, attacks from ordinary mighty figures could only barely injure Zhuhou. But with Zhuhou''s restorative powers, he could easily recover from them! Instead, it was Mighty Miracle God and his five-thousand-strong troops which left Zhuhou heavily injured. He perished only under accumulated injuries after expending all his pills and time.


    "The fiends must have been watching this battle. So did the Heavenly Courts. No one can take away your hard work." Mighty Miracle God walked over and smiled, his beard flailing. "According to the Heavenly Courts'' rules, spoils of wars should be split among whoever put in the work. Your efforts were undeniable. All the spoils of war will be given to you."


    With that said, the two furry tentacles and the other items flew over.


    "They are all mine?" Qin Yun was taken aback.


    It would have been fine if he had taken a portion. But to take it all?


    The two furry tentacles were extremely precious treasures. They might not be a Connate Numinous treasure, but combined they definitely had the value of half a Connate Numinous treasure.


    "Don''t reject it," said Mighty Miracle God through a voice transmission. "Even if we were to take back the spoils of war, they would be handed over to the Heavenly Courts. It is not lacking for this bit of treasure. Take it. It''s under orders of my Heavenly Courts."


    "Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li?" Qin Yun was secretly astonished.


    Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li had ordinary strength, being an ordinary Golden Immortal, but he was thought of highly by Jade Emperor. He was good at leading troops! He helmed a large portion of the troops in the Heavenly Courts.


    Most important of all, Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li¡­ had an extremely powerful combat general¡ªThree Altar Sea''s mighty god, Nezha! This third prince was very famous in the Three Realms. After all, he was a combat general of the Physical Establishing Sage with pinnacle Golden Immortal strength. Although due to his body being constructed from lotus roots during his reincarnation, he was slightly weaker than Erlang, who cultivated in the Eight Nine Divine Skill, or that monkey, it did not take away from his pinnacle Golden Immortal Physical Establishing Sage strength.


    With this child in his arsenal, Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li''s standing in the Heavenly Courts was assured.


    "Alright, I''ll take it." Qin Yun did not reject it.


    Since the troops would have to hand it over to the Heavenly Courts if they took it back and Heavenly King Li had given the instructions, he decided to take it. He immediately waved his hand and stored away all the treasures.


    "Haha, sorry for slighting you previously. Brother Qin Yun, I hope you will not take it to heart." Mighty Miracle God smiled. "Let''s go. We can head to the Han family and have a few drinks."


    "Alright." Qin Yun smiled in response.


    ¡­


    Mt. Jade Screen''s Han family was in quite a stir. After all, it had been attacked by Fiend King Zhuhou of the spirit-devouring lineage''s sixteen Fiend Kings! Following that, Qin Yun and Mighty Miracle God, who led the Heavenly troops, managed to kill Zhuhou collectively. As for now¡­ Qin Yun, Mighty Miracle God, and Wang Qian¡ªthree half-step Golden Immortals or higher¡ªwere having drinks inside.


    The Han family''s patriarch, Immortal Golden Placid, barely qualified to join in the celebrations as the Han family''s owner. He instructed for all sorts of delicacies and fine liquor to be served.


    "Quick, quick, quick."


    "Carry them well. Don''t you offend the exalted ones when you enter later."


    The maidservants nervously entered with wooden trays in hand.


    And elsewhere.


    "Han Lin, you really found a huge backer. That Qin Yiyi''s father, Qin Yun, is treated with such great respect by a powerful general of the Heavenly Courts! That Zhuhou also finally succumbed because of Sword Immortal Qin. From the way I look at it, it''s already certain that Sword Immortal Qin has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. He might even have a chance of becoming a Golden Immortal in the future."


    "That''s right. Han Lin, when you strike it rich, don''t you forget us brothers from your family."


    A group of men and women surrounded Han Lin as they flattered him.


    These people were individuals with extremely high talent from the Han family''s present generation. A few of them were in no way inferior to him, but all of them now wanted to get into his good books. After all, the strongest member of their Han family, Patriarch Golden Placid, was far inferior to Sword Immortal Qin. How long had Sword Immortal Qin cultivated? His future was likely to be even more illustrious.


    Han Lin could only remain polite.


    "Brother Double Wood." A shout sounded from afar. It was Qin Yiyi who stood under a distant peach tree.


    "I''ll make a move first," Han Lin said to his clansmen immediately.


    "Go ahead."


    "You have to coax this Miss Qin well," all of them hurriedly exhorted with voice transmissions.

 537 Empyrean Lord Kuifus Choice

    Chapter 537: Empyrean Lord Kuifu''s Choice


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Jade Screen world. Han family.


    Mighty Miracle God and the other Heavenly Courts generals were no rush to return to the Heavenly Courts. Instead, they used some of the immortal brew from their cherished collection to set up a feast for Qin Yun.


    "Brother Qin Yun, come to the Heavenly Courts with us." Mighty Miracle God placed his wine cup down and took the opportunity to raise the proposal. As he sat among them, the Han family''s patriarch, Immortal Golden Placid, was astonished when he heard that. As for Senior Brother Wang Qian, he drank the alcohol smilingly while listening.


    "To the Heavenly Courts?" Qin Yun pondered.


    "The Heavenly Courts rules over the Three Realms. It''s also where there are the most immortals. And of course, it''s where the Heavenly Dao and the light where providence shines is the greatest. There are many cultivation sacred lands. By cultivating there¡­ it will be much better than cultivating in the lower realms," said Mighty Miracle God. "With your talent, you might attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit earlier by cultivating in the Heavenly Courts."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Obtaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit isn''t that easy."


    The Heavenly realm was indeed central to the Three Realms.


    The Great Worlds of many dominions allowed Golden Immortals and Buddhas to descend with their real bodies, but the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were unable to enter with their real bodies.


    As for the Heavenly realm, that was where the Buddhist Ancestor''s and Dao Ancestors'' true bodies could enter. For instance, the Buddhist Ancestor''s Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous was in the Heavenly realm! The three Dao Ancestors also often appeared in the Heavenly realm.


    "My Heavenly King has the intention of inviting you to the Heavenly Courts," said Mighty Miracle God with a smile. "If you were to join the Heavenly Courts, your official rank will be no lower than mine. It will at least be a fifth-grade immortal official."


    "A fifth-grade immortal official?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    "After all my years of service, I''m only an eighth-grade official," said Wang Qian smilingly with a shake of his head.


    Mighty Miracle God said, "We are now dealing with fiendish demons across the various areas of the Three Realms. Furthermore, most fiendish demons are hiding in Small Worlds. Golden Immortals are unable to enter with their real bodies, so we are the only ones available to take action! Beneath Golden Immortals¡­ the number of people that have enemy trapping abilities like you in the Three Realms can be counted on one hand. The Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous has one. Emperor Polestar has one under him. The Tenebrous Fiend Abyss has one¡­ Brother Qin Yun, you would then be ranked the fourth with such means. You naturally deserve the rank of a fifth-grade immortal official."


    "Didn''t you say that Emperor Polestar has one who is good at trapping enemies? Why didn''t the Heavenly Courts use him?" asked Qin Yun.


    Mighty Miracle God smiled. "You aren''t aware of this. Emperor Polestar''s subordinates are obviously under his jurisdiction. His Majesty can''t just override Emperor Polestar and give the order directly."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    That''s right¡­


    Just Emperor Polestar''s perfected Golden Immortal strength made him someone even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor would not easily interfere with.


    "Therefore, Heavenly King Li is in great need of someone like you, Qin Yun," Mighty Miracle God said immediately.


    "Brother Qin Yun," two half-step Golden Immortal generals also persuaded. "Our Third Prince abhors evil and has been pursuing fiendish demons all this while. If you were to join, Third Prince will definitely not treat you shabbily."


    "Yes, with Third Prince as a backer, you will not meet any resistance in the Heavenly Courts."


    "There are all sorts of experts in the Heavenly Courts, as well as treasure lands and treasures."


    The two generals continued persuading.


    "Help me thank Heavenly King Li for his kind gesture. At this moment, I do not have any intention on joining the Heavenly Courts," said Qin Yun.


    "Really?" Mighty Miracle God widened his eyes.


    Qin Yun shook his head with a smile.


    Mighty Miracle God sighed when he saw this. "Whatever then. Any itinerant cultivator would try their best to enter the Heavenly Courts, but you come from the Green Touring Palace after all. In terms of cultivation Dharmic formulations or treasures¡­ Green Touring Palace is in no way inferior to the Heavenly Courts. I can understand why you are unwilling, but the Heavenly Courts is, after all, where the Heavenly Dao and the light shined from providence is at its greatest. There are many benefits to cultivating there."


    Qin Yun had made up his mind. He was not lacking in Dharmic formulations and treasures, so why would he volunteer to be bound by the heavenly rules?


    ¡­


    Half a day later.


    Mighty Miracle God led the Heavenly troops in their departure from the Jade Screen world.


    "Brother Qin Yun, if you ever change your mind, feel free to contact me," Mighty Miracle God said before leaving.


    Following that, Qin Yun also left the Jade Screen world. When he left, he took his daughter and Han Lin with him and brought them back to the Effulgent Great World.


    ******


    This battle had been watched by too many people.


    There were the Han family, the Heavenly troops led respectively by Mighty Miracle God and Senior Brother Wang, as well as those watching from the Heavenly Courts and the fiends¡­ Too many people knew of this battle, which led to the rapid spread of the news that Qin Yun possessed the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal and that he had attained phenomenal success in his two great divine powers, Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes in the Three Realms.


    The battle in the Lightning world that happened three years ago was known by extremely few.


    But this time¡­


    The news spread throughout the Three Realms not long after the battle!


    It also made several experts in the Three Realms begin to pay attention to Qin Yun. Just having a half-step Golden Immortal strength was nothing much in the Three Realms, but Qin Yun''s means of trapping the enemy was rare even among Golden Immortal mighty figures. In life-and-death combat, means to trap an enemy were extremely important. After all, experts all had various life-preservation means.


    It was not easy to kill one in a short period of time.


    Typically, one had to first trap the enemy and drain them of their resources¡­ before thinking of a way to slay them! Qin Yun''s value became evident. Even Heavenly King Li had consented to Qin Yun''s joining of the Heavenly Courts at the minimum rank of a fifth-grade immortal official. Other factions also wished to rope Qin Yun in.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend world.


    In a dark cave abode''s chamber, Empyrean Lord Kuifu sat cross-legged as he focused on meditation.


    After breaking through to the late-stage Skyfiend realms, he began focusing on cultivating his divine power. He wished to perfect it so as to reach the might of a half-step Ancestral Fiend! With the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend, he would gain confidence in his chances of occupying the Great Chang world.


    "Knock. Knock. Knock." Door knocks sounded.


    "Oh?" Kuifu opened his eyes, but they were burning with fury. He had been immersed in his cultivation and was on the brink of an epiphany, but he had been disturbed. "I have long instructed that I''m not to be disturbed while in seclusion."


    Kuifu flicked his sleeve and a phantom appeared in the chamber. The phantom bowed reverently and fawningly. "Brother Kuifu."


    "What serious matter is it for you to disrupt my cultivation?" Kuifu was somewhat displeased. Now that he had no fief, and his strength was not the greatest, Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud had no reason to seek him. He enjoyed some peace and quiet in his current situation.


    "Brother Kuifu, didn''t you ask me to watch Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament?" said the phantom immediately.


    "Did something major happen?" Kuifu was alarmed as he pressed immediately.


    "Yes, something major has happened," said the phantom. "Just today, about four hours ago! Qin Yun and the Heavenly Courts'' Heavenly troops joined forces to kill Fiend King Zhuhou of the spirit-devouring lineage."


    "What!? Fiend King Zhuhou is dead?" Kuifu was alarmed. "Aren''t the spirit-devouring lineage''s life-preservation means very powerful?"


    "Qin Yun has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. The two great divine powers he cultivates in have reached the phenomenal success stage. His trapping means are said to be rare even among Golden Immortal mighty figures. He managed to restrain Fiend King Zhuhou, while Mighty Miracle God, together with the Heavenly troops, released a barrage of attacks, draining Fiend King Zhuhou of all his pills and causing him to eventually perish." The phantom spoke with great excitement. After all, this was a battle many in the Three Realms had paid attention to.


    Kuifu was taken aback.


    A half-step Golden Immortal?


    Qin Yun¡­ was a half-step Golden Immortal?


    At that moment, Kuifu felt his mind turn abuzz. Tumultuous upheavals went through his heart.


    "Qin Yun has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal?" pressed Kuifu. "Are you certain?"


    "The news has already spread throughout the Three Realms," replied the phantom immediately. "This battle was secretly monitored by the Heavenly Courts and the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. How could the information be wrong?"


    Kuifu nodded slightly as he waved his hand. "Alright, I got it. You may leave."


    "I won''t be disturbing you any further, Brother Kuifu." The phantom dissipated.


    Kuifu sat there in silence.


    He remained silent for a long time in the darkness¡­


    "Only I know the secret of the Great Chang world!" Kuifu muttered softly after a long time had passed.


    "It should have been mine."


    "It had to be mine."


    Kuifu muttered on. "But now, Qin Yun is already a half-step Golden Immortal. Even if I were get really lucky and reach the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend, there''s nothing I can do about him. I might even be trapped by him. As for me reaching the strength of an Ancestral Fiend? I don''t see any hopes of that."


    "I don''t see a sliver of hope if I just rely on my own means."


    "It looks like I have to return to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and inform Patriarch." Kuifu stood up immediately and went to seek an audience with Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud.

 538 Patriarch Bojia

    Chapter 538: Patriarch Bojia


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Moments later.


    "You wish to return to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss?" Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud looked at Kuifu who stood before him.


    "I have been under your tutelage all these years in the Effulgent dominion, Fiend Supremacy. Now that I have broken through to the late stages of the Skyfiend realms, it''s time for me to return," said Kuifu. "By returning to my clan I can gain the guidance of my clan''s seniors."


    Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud pondered slightly before nodding. "Alright, follow me."


    Kuifu secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    Skyfiends like them were unable to leave the Effulgent dominion without Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud''s permission. To cross dominions through their own strength? That was something only mighty figure were capable of. He had been most afraid that Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud would refuse to let him leave. However, Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud clearly did not think too much of a Skyfiend who had just broken through to the late-stage Skyfiend realm. Furthermore, he had to take into account the Bojia clan.


    "Go on in." Soon, they arrived in front of a massive array as Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud instructed him.


    Kuifu immediately entered the array obediently.


    Whoosh¡ª


    The array was activated.


    Red beams of light lit up and, following that, Kuifu vanished and returned to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    ¡­


    The Tenebrous Fiend Abyss was the most mysterious place in the Three Realms. All sorts of baneful and murderous auras gathered here. It had existed even before Pangu''s splitting of heaven and earth.


    The ferocious baneful auras from the Chaos Godfiends fighting in the Chaos were all gathered here. Gradually, these auras took form, giving birth to a group of bloodthirsty Chaos Godfiends. However, they had kept a rather low profile due to the restraints their leader placed on them.


    After a long period of time¡­


    Pangu split the heaven and earth apart. There was the era of the demons'' Heavenly Courts, the war between the three Daoist sects, and the era of the humans'' Heavenly Courts. This went on until that leader turned into a Fiend Ancestor, putting him on par with the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Goddess N¨¹wa¡­ It was then that the fiendish powers were truly revealed, making the Three Realms learn that the dark and mysterious fiend abyss hid away such terrifying strength.


    But before that, it was not known to the outside world. In fact, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor had long attempted to probe the abyss, but even before the Fiend Ancestor reached his full potential, he was able to control the entirety of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. In there, he was practically invincible¡­ The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor failed to find anything even when they entered.


    And after the Fiend Ancestor broke through, he became absolutely invincible in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "I wish to meet Patriarch." After Kuifu returned to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, he rushed and met with various obstacles before arriving outside Bojia Palace.


    Bojia Palace was entirely gold in color as it emitted shimmering golden light.


    Bojia Palace''s exterior was heavily guarded. This was, after all, the residence of the patriarch of one of the nine biggest clans in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss¡ªthe Bojia clan. The patriarch''s name was Bojia, and he too was a Chaos Godfiend who was born in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Over time, he generated a huge family tree that turned into the massive Bojia clan, becoming one of the nine great clans.


    "Kuifu?" A guard at the entrance laughed with a vigorous and firm voice. "Kuifu, didn''t you go with Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud to the Effulgent dominion? Why are you back?"


    "Kuifu, do you think anyone can just meet with Patriarch? Leave immediately. If you were someone from another clan, we would have long attacked you."


    "Leave quickly!" the guards urged him.


    Kuifu looked at the Bojia Palace in front of him. It was his clan''s sacred land, a place he had never entered before. However, he said with great solemnity, "I wish to meet Patriarch."


    "Eh¡­" The guards exchanged looks for they were all surprised.


    Just like how Qin Yun and his fellow disciples had no means to summon the Dao Ancestor, preventing them from meeting the Dao Ancestor after the first time, these disciples of huge family clans had almost no chance to meet their patriarch their entire lives! The fiends had stricter and harsher rules.


    "I have something very important." Kuifu swept his gaze across the guards. In fact, he could have sought his master and gone up the chain of command, but if he did it that way, his contribution would be diminished.


    Therefore, he wanted to meet his patriarch directly!


    "Something important? Fine. Since you are insistent on meeting Patriarch, we will pass the message. You should know what the outcome will be if you lie." One of the guards nodded before turning to head inside.


    Kuifu stood outside Bojia Palace silently in wait.


    After waiting for a while¡ª


    "Follow me." A purple-robed woman walked out of Bojia Palace, shouting when she shot a glance at Kuifu.


    Kuifu immediately followed her in.


    Bojia Palace was huge, and there were many palatial compounds inside. There were also majestic palace halls in it, with the most eye-catching one being a golden hall. Kuifu was led into it.


    "Wait here." The purple-robed woman left immediately.


    Kuifu stood alone in the golden hall, waiting.


    An hour later.


    "Oh?" Kuifu was alarmed, for he was shocked to realize that a figure had suddenly appeared on the throne high above the hall. The figure was dressed in golden armor and even a golden headdress. The figure had excellent looks and he was truly a handsome man.


    However, his forehead had four faces, one in each direction. He also had eight arms extending out of his body.


    His body was reclined halfway, with one hand holding up his head. One hand held a fruit and his other hand held a knife as he leisurely peeled the skin off the fruit. Another hand was flipping through a book, while all the other hands drooped down.


    His fox-like eyes shot a glance at Kuifu beneath him before going back to his book.


    "Patriarch." Kuifu immediately knelt down and his forehead kissed the ground.


    "My child, why did you insist on meeting me?" Patriarch Bojia asked softly.


    Kuifu was very nervous. He knew that without a sufficiently good reason, he was doomed.


    "I have an important matter to inform you of, Patriarch." Kuifu raised his head and said immediately.


    Bojia continued peeling the skin off the fruit as he listened.


    "I discovered a Connate Wonder, a Stellar Stone, deep underground in the Great Chang world," said Kuifu immediately. "It is at least a thousand feet long."


    "A thousand feet long?" Bojia directly cut through the fruit in his hand as he threw it away and sat up. He stared down at Kuifu. Even the eyes on his two lateral sides were trained on Kuifu. "Are you sure it''s a thousand feet long?"


    "Yes, I guarantee it with my life. I saw it with my own eyes. It is at least a thousand feet long," said Kuifu immediately.


    "You were able to recognize a Stellar Stone?" Bojia laughed.


    Kuifu said reverently, "My master had once obtained a Stellar Stone in the past. It was only about ten feet across and its surface was lined with silver granules. So I have seen one with my own eyes before. My avatar had once encountered the eruption of a volcano in the Great Chang world, and saw similar silver granules. So I bored deep into the ground¡­ following the volcano''s hole down. In the deepest spot of the magma chamber lay the Stellar Stone. I have checked it before. It''s at least a thousand feet long."


    "A thousand-foot long Stellar Stone? An ordinary Stellar Stone about thirty to fifty feet can match that of an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. A thousand feet? I have heard of one, but I have never seen one." All eyes on Bojia''s four faces shimmered. Although he had several Connate Numinous treasures on him, all of them combined were in no way comparable to a thousand-foot long Stellar Stone.


    With a thought, Bojia quickly investigated all the detailed information regarding Kuifu.


    "You have once attempted to conquer the Great Chang world?" asked Bojia.


    Kuifu said nervously, "Yes. I was selfish and wished to monopolize the Stellar Stone for myself. I had to occupy the world first before I could think of a way to slowly extract the Stellar Stone. Once it''s extracted, the entire world would face destruction. Unfortunately, I was stopped by Daoist Divine Firmament of the Great Chang world. And now, the Great Chang world''s Qin Yun has reached the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. I have no chance of monopolizing it for myself."


    "Fiends are all selfish." Bojia''s anterior face smiled, but his posterior face was nasty. "I can understand."


    "Tell me the location of the volcano," said Bojia.


    "Yes." Kuifu immediately waved his hand as a projection of the entire Great Chang world appeared in midair. On it, a volcano was labeled, as well as the deepest spot in the volcano. "Here in its deepest depths will you find the Stellar Stone. A Stellar Stone is the foundation of a world. It''s extremely mysterious and undetectable by Dharmic powers. One has to see it with their own eyes."


    "You are to stay in Bojia Palace from now on. You are not to make contact with any other clansmen," Bojia instructed. "I will naturally not maltreat you when I obtain the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone."


    "I accede to every command of yours, Patriarch," said Kuifu immediately.


    Bojia Palace nodded slightly and waved his hand. He moved Kuifu into a palatial compound and sealed him up for the time being. He then lightly instructed, "Watch him closely. No one is to make contact with him."


    "Yes." A deep voice sounded.


    Bojia immediately closed his eyes and sensed the distant Effulgent Great World before sensing the Great Chang world.


    "The Great Chang world?" With a single thought, Bojia''s consciousness had descended into that distant world.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world, Cloud Prefecture, Azure Wing Gorge.


    A handsome man appeared on a cliff as he looked down at the raging river.


    "Great Chang world, a thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone?" The corners of the handsome man''s mouth curled up. "It appears this place is my land of fortune."

 539 Name sBlack Wings

    Chapter 539: Name ''Black Wing''


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The handsome man looked far into the distance and, by taking one step, he vanished. When he appeared again, he was more than five hundred kilometers away.


    There was not a single fluctuation in the void.


    This was only Patriarch Bojia''s avatar, condensed purely from his willpower. By sending his willpower five hundred kilometers away, he naturally could recondense an avatar.


    "It''s this volcano."


    With a few steps, Patriarch Bojia came to the volcano''s mouth. While standing there, he looked down into its stomach.


    Sou!


    Following that, he flew deep into the volcano¡­


    After passing through the solid magma, he proceeded deeper into the volcano. He was able to easily pass through everything since his body took on an incorporeal property.


    "Oh?" Bojia finally came to a stop as he looked forward in excitement.


    He came upon a gigantic gray stone. Its surface was covered in patterns and they were coruscating with stellar light, making the gigantic stone so beautiful that it looked dreamy. It was huge, and in Bojia''s excitement, he circled it once. It was about the size of a tiny mountain, about a thousand feet in length. It was suspended deep underground.


    However, this Stellar Stone was intricately tied with the Great Chang world''s aura as though it was one.


    If he closed his eyes to sense it, all he could sense was the ordinary world aura from it, nothing that resembled that of a Stellar Stone. He could only see it by opening his eyes.


    "Yes, yes. It is a Stellar Stone."


    "A thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone." Bojia could hardly conceal his excitement. Although he already knew about it, he still felt astounded seeing it with his own eyes.


    The treasure in front of him was more precious that all the treasure he had accumulated over the years as the patriarch of one of the nine major clans of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "It''s mine. It''s all mine."


    Bojia''s eyes flared with intense greed as he frowned again and muttered to himself, "However, taking it away will be rather difficult. This Stellar Stone is the bedrock of the Great Chang world. It''s impossible to forcibly take it as it is. It is connected to the entire world, and is as heavy as the Great Chang world. There''s no way of transporting it. I have to first occupy the Great Chang world and convert this world''s Heavenly Dao into that of the Fiendish Dao, so that it doesn''t reject Skyfiends, before there will be a way to extract it in one go."


    "Yes, I have to first occupy this world and convert it into a Fiendish Dao world." Bojia shook his head slightly. "What a pity. I''m unable to descend into this Small World with my true body. If not, even if Qin Yun has life-protecting great divine powers, I will still be able to crush him to death."


    Bojia could actually fight the ancient demon Celestial Thearch who had cultivated the two great divine powers to perfection, even if he was no match for him. The Bojia clan of his personal lineage had a total of seven Ancestral Fiends.


    But no matter how strong he was, he could not descend with his true body.


    As for using his avatar? That was so weak it was not worth mentioning.


    Swoosh.


    Following that, he retracted his will from distant space, dissipating his avatar.


    His secret arrival in the Great Chang world was naturally unknown to anyone.


    ¡­


    Bojia Palace. Main hall.


    Bojia sat high atop his throne.


    Standing in the hall beneath him were six figures. Of them, a black-robed man with long hair stood a little forward. The other five stood slightly behind him.


    "Patriarch." At that moment, the other five were reverently kneeling as a salute. The black-robed man only bent his back slightly.


    "Hahaha, Black Wing. I have an important mission for you," said Bojia with a loud laugh. He thought highly of the black-robed man because he was the most excellent progeny of his Bojia clan among ninth firmament Skyfiends.


    "Patriarch, please deliver your instructions," said Fiend Supremacy Black Wing.


    "My Bojia clan has eleven Fiend Supremacies. You are the strongest of them all." Bojia smiled. "I have no worries in handing you this mission. I need you to head to the Effulgent dominion and completely occupy the Great Chang world! The five half-step Ancestral Fiends are good at array formations. They will accompany you and they will turn the Great Chang world into an impregnable fortress. It will become another lair for us fiends in the Great Chang world."


    Black Wing was puzzled. "Patriarch, isn''t the Tenebrous Fiend world already set up in the Effulgent dominion? Is there a need to establish another base Great Chang world?"


    "You do not need to worry about it. You just need to ensure that the Great Chang world is made impregnable such that the Heavenly Courts'' massive army will not be able to successfully overrun it," said Bojia.


    "Yes," said Black Wing respectfully.


    "By the way, the Great Chang world has two Green Touring Palace disciples. One of them is Qin Yun and the other is Daoist Divine Firmament. You can forget about Daoist Divine Firmament, but Qin Yun already has the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. Therefore, you have to be very careful when setting up the array formations. Do not alert them," said Bojia. "Once they are alerted, Green Touring Palace might send a bunch of disciples to the Great Chang world."


    "Understood," Black Wing said reverently. "I will secretly set up the various array formations and will activate them only when they are all successfully set up. When that happens, even if Qin Yun and company are alerted, it would be too late for them to seek help."


    "Yes, set it up stealthily! Activate it only when it''s done." Bojia smiled. "Set up the array with the Great Chang world''s land as its core. As for how to set it up, I have already informed the five about everything that is needed for the various array formations. Bring the five there and guard them as they set up the array formations. That''s all you need to do."


    "Yes," said Black Wing respectfully.


    "Let''s not delay this any further. It''s best you reach the Great Chang world as soon as possible," instructed Bojia.


    "I can set off at anytime."


    "Alright."


    Bojia swept his gaze across Black Wing and the other five half-step Ancestral Fiends. "This mission is extremely important. You are to do your best. If it succeeds, I would reward all of you handsomely."


    "Yes." The other five half-step Ancestral Fiends were somewhat excited.


    "Go on." Bojia instructed. With a wave of his hand, Black Wing and the five vanished.


    ¡­


    Although Fiend Supremacies were ninth firmament Skyfiends, they were existences who matched that of Ancestral Fiend mighty figures.


    They also had different levels of strength.


    For instance, among the Buddhists'' eighteen arhats, all of them matched Buddha mighty figures, but they had Arhat Taming Dragon as their leader. Another example would be the former leader of the Heavenly Courts'' western mansion, Yellow-robed Supremacy. As he was of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage, he could defeat ordinary Golden Immortals, and was quite outstanding among experts that matched mighty figures.


    Black Wing was similarly a Fiend Supremacy who had cultivated his body. He also had a great divine power and weaker Ancestral Fiends were not even his match. He was the strongest Fiend Supremacy of the Bojia clan!


    "Whoosh."


    Black Wing led the five half-step Ancestral Fiends as they arrived in the Effulgent dominion.


    With another two rounds of Major Void Transference, they arrived in space outside the Great Chang world.


    They looked at the Great Chang world that stood before them.


    "We are here. The Great Chang world." Black Wing looked down at the beautiful planet. The five half-step Ancestral Fiends behind him had their eyes fixated on it as well.


    ******


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance City.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were strolling around in the streets. He was even holding a stick of candied fruit.


    "Mom, I want some candied fruit." Not far off, a child looked enviously at the candied fruit in Qin Yun''s hand as he immediately requested his mother get him one.


    "Have you forgotten how your teeth ache? No," said the woman.


    "I want to eat it! I want to eat it!"


    "You silly child, do you want a beating!?" The woman was somewhat peeved.


    "I want it!" The child began pulling a tantrum.


    "You are asking for it." The woman pulled the child off to the side and pulled down his pants to reveal his tiny buttocks. Then she began smacking them.


    "Boohoo, I want to eat¡­ No, I don''t anymore. I don''t. Mom, it hurts. It hurts!" The child''s tears poured down as he could not help but look towards Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun felt a little embarrassed with his candied fruit in hand.


    "Look at you. Still eating candied fruit at your age. You even implicated that poor little child." Yi Xiao could not help but laugh.


    For Qin Yun, candied fruit was mostly about memories.


    They were memories from his childhood, memories of the days he spent with his younger sister and elder brother.


    "So I''m at fault for eating candied fruit? But that child does have quite a few rotten teeth." Qin Yun smiled as he tapped gently with his finger. A wisp of Dharmic powers flew straight into the child''s body and rapidly reconstructed his teeth. "I just gave him a mouthful of good teeth. They will remain good his entire life. Consider it his compensation."


    "Seriously." Yi Xiao was rendered speechless.


    "Let''s go. Don''t stay here any longer. He''s still staring at my candied fruit." Qin Yun quickly left with Yi Xiao.


    Meanwhile, Qin Yun had no idea that as he enjoyed the pleasures of mortal world, Black Wing had led five half-step Ancestral Fiends to secretly infiltrate the Great Chang world.

 540 Alarmed

    Chapter 540: Alarmed


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Standing on a cloud at a high altitude, Black Wing asked, "How long will it take to make the entire Great Chang world impregnable?"


    "Seven days should be sufficient."


    Among the five half-step Ancestral Fiends, a man with a snake''s tail said reverently, "Many of the array formation artifacts have long been refined. All we need to do is put them in place. In fact, it''s possible to make the various array formations stable in five days. Seven days will just ensure that we can sufficiently set up all the array formations as Patriarch instructed."


    "Alright, set it up as soon as possible. Remember to remain concealed. Do not be discovered by the two Green Touring Palace disciples in the Great Chang world," instructed Black Wing. "Should we be discovered, it will be troublesome if a large number of Green Touring Palace immortals descend upon us."


    "We understand," replied the five half-step Ancestral Fiends.


    "Go on." Black Wing waved his hand.


    The five half-step Ancestral Fiends bowed slightly before they scattered and began rapidly setting up the array formation.


    With a single step, Black Wing appeared in an ordinary city beneath him.


    He walked alone in the tiny city''s streets.


    "Strange."


    Black Wing frowned slightly. "We fiends have clearly established a stronghold in the Tenebrous Fiend world in the Effulgent dominion. Why would Patriarch make me come here to establish a second stronghold? Furthermore, any Fiend Supremacy would be sufficient for the trivial matter of setting up strongholds. My Bojia clan has eleven Fiend Supremacies. Why was I the one he instructed to watch over this?"


    "It''s indeed strange." Black Wing pondered over the matter.


    He felt something amiss, but it was not his place to ask if Patriarch Bojia did not elaborate.


    "These pitiful humans¡­" Black Wing looked at the large number of people on the street as his eyes suffused an icy coldness. "Seven days from now, I will begin terraforming the Great Chang world and turn it into a world that follows the Fiendish Dao. When the Heavenly Dao of this world changes, the environment will change drastically. Nearly all the mortal lives in this world will perish, with a minute number being able to live an ignoble existence."


    "Pitiful ants, enjoy your remaining lives as much as you can. In a week, Armageddon will befall your world." The corner of Black Wing''s mouth curled up.


    It was a pleasant feeling for Black Wing to watch the apocalypse as countless lives died from their inability to adapt to the Fiendish Heavenly Dao.


    After all, he did not dare engage in wanton slaughter usually. He would conquer a new world and kill all these mortals for the Fiendish Dao. In a world with a new Fiendish Heavenly Dao, what he did was no sin. Instead, he would be rewarded by the Fiendish Heavenly Dao.


    ******


    Daoist Divine Firmament and Qin Yun had no idea that six terrifying existences had infiltrated their planet as they continued leading normal days.


    Grand Dominance City.


    Qin Yun would occasionally spend time with his wife, but most of his time remained spent on cultivation. He would ponder over his Sword Dao day and night. To be able to create five Golden Immortal level moves, it signified the robustness of all that he knew. He could even vaguely sense the Great Dao he was pursuing! Just the vague sensation of it was enough to make Qin Yun tremble in excitement.


    It was a goal that he had been pursuing after all these years of cultivation.


    Once he succeeded, he would forever be different.


    It was said that acquiring comprehension of the Dao in the morning leaves one contented even if one dies in the evening. And to figure out a Great Dao for himself was a sensation that left him innately trembling to his very core.


    The closer he was to it, the more he desired it! It also made him focus more on figuring it out.


    "Everyone that has attained a Great Dao gains an extremely high level of control of the void. They can even influence time." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the grass beside the mirror lake''s banks. "Only by doing so can they cross the chasm that separates dominions from each other."


    "The moves I have created to date are also targeted towards space-time."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes.


    Now, by sensing the surrounding space, he could clearly dissect the layers of profoundness. It was like how a skilled butcher who dismembered an ox would not view an ox as an ox after three years of butchering. Instead, all the butcher would see were different meat cuts and tendons. After many years of butchering, they would not even need to see with their eyes. Just sensing the meat was sufficient for them to easily separate them cleanly.


    It was the same with cultivation. As one''s insights deepened, the void no longer appeared mysterious. Although the naked eye could not see it directly, it could be sensed. One would be able to understand the structure of the empty void and its various changes. There was even the more mysterious aspect of time which influenced space. However, the moment time was involved, things became countless times more complicated.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun gently smacked the void with his right hand, causing the void above the mirror lake to tremble.


    Just a slight strike resulted in tremors.


    "Peng." On the third strike, he caused the void to produce black hollows.


    "This is only a small region. Space-time should be handled with broader strokes." Qin Yun casually waved his hand.


    Whoosh¡ª


    A blast radiated out from Qin Yun.


    This spatial blast even included a time variation in it.


    That instant!


    The spatial blast expanded from Grand Dominance City''s tiny mirror lake to every direction, fully reaching out to 25,000 kilometers! It passed through cities, desolate plains, deserts, and finally into the sea.


    Regardless of the direction, the spatial blast raged on, even deep into the sea. It had covered about 80% of the Great Chang world.


    On a very tiny desolate island which spanned about 250 meters in the North Sea.


    A gray-robed elder was there, carefully setting up an array formation.


    "Set."


    An array disk sank about ten feet into the ground.


    This gray-robed elder closed his eyes as he sensed the other array formation components located in other areas of the Great Chang world. They were all set up personally by him. All five half-step Ancestral Fiends shared the workload. After all, to make a world impregnable required the fusion of a bunch of array formations.


    "That''s not right. The position in the void is off by a little. I have to reposition the array disk." The gray-robed elder sensed it, and so had no choice but to wave his hand to retrieve the array disk. Following that, he placed it a second time based on what he sensed. The new position was only an inch from the old position.


    After putting it in place, he sensed it again. This time, he could sense that the array disk was one with the other array formation components.


    "Yes, it''s time to head to the next spot." The gray-robed elder smiled.


    At that moment¡ª


    A spatial blast swept through the area, including the gray-robed elder and the array disk.


    The gray-robed elder''s smile froze. He was also a half-step Ancestral Fiend who could easily cast the Art of Major Void Transference. He was extremely sensitive to the void and he could sense the will contained in that blast. Clearly, an expert was surveying the area. It was not any of the other four half-step Ancestral Fiends or Fiend Supremacy Black Wing!


    "No good! We''ve been discovered!" The gray-robed elder''s eyes turned red.


    ¡­


    Deep in the mountains, a half-step Ancestral Fiend was carefully controlling three array flags.


    A spatial blast swept past him and the three array flags.


    "No good." This half-step Ancestral Fiend also underwent a drastic change in expression.


    ¡­


    The five half-step Ancestral Fiends were setting up the array formation with the continent as its core. The continent was where the largest number of sentient beings resided. Furthermore, this was only the second day of setting up since they arrived in the Great Chang world. Unfortunately, they had been discovered by Qin Yun''s accidental casting of a spatial blast during his cultivation.


    Black Wing, who sat cross-legged on a mountain while waiting silently for the seven days to pass, also sensed the spatial blast sweep past him.


    He could even follow the spatial blast and trace its distant origin.


    The blast¡­ came from Grand Dominance City!


    Qin Yun, who sat beside the mirror lake''s bank, immediately revealed a look of shock!


    The fiends were alarmed, but so was Qin Yun!


    "We''ve been discovered!" Black Wing''s expression changed as he simultaneously sent a voice transmission to the five half-step Ancestral Fiends through his karmic ties with them. "We have been discovered by Qin Yun. We are out of time. Activate all the array formations that have been set up!"


    "Yes!" "Yes!" "Yes!"¡­


    The five half-step Ancestral Fiends were originally panicking, but when they heard Black Wing''s instructions, they immediately activated the array formations.


    ¡­


    And at the bank of the mirror lake, Qin Yun, who had been attempting spatial attacks during his cultivation, opened his eyes in shock.


    "Fiends have infiltrated?" Qin Yun was more than a little shocked. "And there are so many array formations, many which I can''t even figure out."


    He ignored everything else.


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    "Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm!"


    Immediately, boundless stellar forces permeated the entirety of the Great Chang world. The boundless stellar light descended, with Qin Yun as the center of it. Every spot within 15,000 kilometers was enveloped by the stellar light. The entire continent and a tiny portion of the sea were enveloped within its glow.


    "I have to first destroy these array formations." Qin Yun did not hesitate as he immediately controlled the boundless stellar forces to commence destruction. Many of the array formations were still in the midst of being set up and were incomplete.

 541 The Heavenly Courts Stirs

    Chapter 541: The Heavenly Courts Stirs


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Dense stellar forces descended upon each of the Great Chang world''s nineteen Prefectures, be they cities, deserts, boats, mountains, or carriages. People everywhere looked in puzzlement at the stellar forces that permeated every inch of the world around them! The stellar forces were extremely mystical. Walls or carriage doors failed to obstruct them in any way.


    The commoners eventually calmed when they found that the stellar forces did not harm them in any way.


    "Boom!!!"


    With a thought from Qin Yun, dense stellar forces formed a gigantic palm above an uninhabited lagoon island. Immediately, the palm shot down at the island, raising a large chunk of the earth. Three array flags that had been embedded in the ground were pulled out as the entire island changed in shape. A huge chasm appeared in the middle of the lagoon lake, which would make it a lake within a lake one day.


    The scene of the gigantic palm destroying the lagoon lake alarmed the nearby fishermen. Many of them knelt down as they muttered under their breaths, "God! God!"


    ¡­


    In every spot where Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm enveloped, he frantically tried to destroy any array he found.


    As he did so¡ª


    "Arise."


    "Array, arise."


    The five half-step Ancestral Fiends were activating the array formations which had already been set up. Although they had only began work slightly more than a day ago and the plan required seven days, they had prioritized the setting up of the array formations according to their importance.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Array after array exploded.


    The entire Great Chang world''s void was completely sealed!


    Gigantic stone columns rose from deep underground as they floated above the four seas of the Great Chang world.


    There was even a massive black hemisphere that appeared which blanketed the continent where the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures lay.


    "What''s happening?"


    "Even the sky has darkened." Countless Great Chang world commoners looked up and saw a huge black hemisphere of light appear like the firmaments. It enveloped the land, and although the sun''s rays could still penetrate and shine in, they had to go through the black layer of light, making the sun appear to dim greatly. The black hemisphere made all the commoners feel a sense of unease.


    It was like it was an innate fear.


    "Oh?" At the same time, the five half-step Ancestral Fiends experienced the suppression of the stellar forces as they activated the array formations. The stellar forces in every spot condensed into a gigantic palm before striking at them with the suppressive might of the Heaven and Earth.


    "Just the usage of the stellar forces can produce such strong might?" The five scattered half-step Ancestral Fiends used their own means¡ªeither their bodies or their Dharma treasures¡ªbut similarly, they had to release their Dharmic powers.


    They had tried their best to keep their auras converged previously to hide from the Heavenly Dao''s detection.


    To them, evading the Heavenly Dao''s detection was very simple¡­ But if they completely released their Skyfiend Dharmic powers, there was no way for them to continue hiding.


    It was not only them!


    Even Black Wing suffered from the suppression of Qin Yun''s stellar forces. He naturally felt contempt over it. All he did was to release minute bits of Dharmic powers to resist the suppression, but as long as he did so¡­ he had to emit auras that contained his Dharmic powers.


    "Boom!"


    The Heavenly Dao showed its wrath. Tribulation clouds gathered simultaneously above the five half-step Ancestral Fiends and Black Wing. Furthermore, the Heaven and Earth powers forcefully suppressed them.


    "The Heavenly Dao of a Small World is such a joke." The five half-step Ancestral Fiends and Black Wing disregarded the Heavenly Dao.


    If it were the Heavenly Dao''s punishment from the entire Three Realms¡­


    That would be terrifying.


    But as for a Small World? At their level, they naturally showed no fear. The only reason that they had concealed their auras was to not alert Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament.


    "W-what is going on?" Daoist Divine Firmament stood outside his cave abode as his Eye of Lightning opened at his glabella. He looked around him and saw the various spots in all of the Great Chang world.


    He saw Qin Yun controlling the stellar forces to repress various areas.


    He also saw six terrifying auras!


    When the six revealed their auras, Daoist Divine Firmament was able to clearly sense them despite being thousands of kilometers away.


    "Array formations have been set up everywhere, to the point of encompassing all of the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures? This is definitely not targeted at me or Qin Yun. Instead, it''s targeting all of the Great Chang world." Daoist Divine Firmament was alarmed and furious. "They are trying to occupy the Great Chang world and convert it into a Fiendish Dao world? Once this world is converted, nearly all life would be wiped out. Nearly every living being on the Great Chang world would perish!"


    An unprecedented calamity had suddenly reared its head!


    It alarmed Daoist Divine Firmament.


    "Qin Yun, they are trying to convert the Great Chang world into a Fiendish Dao world!" Daoist Divine Firmament said urgently via a karmic voice transmission.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, we have to stop them at all cost." Qin Yun also sent a voice transmission which made his anger apparent.


    To convert a world to a Fiendish Dao world would not doubt be a catastrophe for the living beings that originally resided in the world.


    How could Qin Yun and Daoist Divine Firmament allow their homeworld to experience such a catastrophe?


    ******


    Heavenly Courts. In front of North Star Palace.


    Numerous Heavenly generals were standing here on guard. Each of them opened their third eye and, with the North Star Palace''s might, they could ignore the chasms between dominions and easily see every area in the Three Realms.


    "Effulgent dominion''s Great Chang world just underwent a huge fluctuation. Quickly investigate!" A command was given immediately.


    Immediately a Heavenly general turned his head in the direction of the Effulgent dominion as he quickly observed the Great Chang world.


    He immediately saw the various array formations that covered the Great Chang world. Each of them sealed the void fluctuations in the Great Chang world. At that scale¡­ it was almost no different from the Inescapable Net Array! Furthermore, there were array formations which blanketed the continent''s nineteen Prefectures. For a world, its most important thing was the sentient beings living on it.


    The Great Chang world was a world with sentient beings. Ninety-percent of them were humans and they lived in the nineteen Great Chang Prefectures.


    These sentient beings were extremely important for converting the Heavenly Dao. After all, the will of the people was the will of the heavens.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing led this expedition himself? Furthermore, there are so many powerful array formations. Many of them were refined by Ancestral Fiends. To pay such an enormous price, it absolutely cannot be for the simple conquering of a Small World." The Heavenly general was instantly alarmed. "It''s likely that they are establishing a new lair."


    The Heavenly general immediately ran towards the North Star Palace to report the matter.


    The creation of a lair?


    The dominions in the Three Realms were separated into sixty areas due to space. Apart from the dominions which the Heavenly Courts, Daoists, Buddhists, and various other factions had strong control over, as well as those ruled by the fiends, there were only about twenty dominions which the fiends participated in battle over. The Effulgent dominion was one of them. The construction of any Fiendish Dao lair would be met with strong resistance from the Heavenly Courts.


    Soon.


    The ruler of the Three Realms, Jade Emperor, personally gave the order from the Cloud Palace of the Golden Arches. The Great God of the Seas, Nezha, was to lead the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions and a hundred thousand Heavenly troops and descend to the lower realm to capture Fiend Supremacy Black Wing!


    Outside the South Heaven Gates.


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were gathered. Although they had yet to attain Golden Immortal Dao fruits, all of them had the strength that matched a mighty figure''s. Many of them were extremely powerful and had the ability to suppress ordinary Golden Immortals and Buddhas. In terms of strength, they were in no way inferior to the leader of the Bojia clan''s eleven Fiend Supremacies, Black Wing. After all, mighty figures were unable to enter Small Worlds with their real bodies. Therefore, the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were perfect for this mission.


    "Greetings, Third Prince." The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions led the numerous generals behind them to salute reverently.


    In front of them was a handsome youth. He was draped in the red Connate Numinous treasure, Red Armillary Sash, which flared out. His eyes were cold as he looked down on the lower realm. There were faint flames rising from his body which caused the void to warp.


    He was the god of war, Nezha. He could be deemed as the second combat general of the Heavenly Courts and he was famous throughout the Three Realms!


    Compared to the first combat general of the Heavenly Courts, Erlang, who was difficult to deploy, Nezha was diligent in his duties. He engaged in combat everywhere and was the combat general who fought for the Heavenly Courts the most. Over time, he had accumulated a great amount of merit. His Connate Numinous treasure, the Universe Ring, and other items were imbued with great merit, turning them into Connate Merit Numinous treasures, giving them even greater strength.


    His trip there was naturally to preside over the cosmos so as to prevent the Ancestral Fiends from receiving Fiend Supremacy Black Wing in his possible escape.


    With Nezha''s strength as the second combat general of the Heavenly Courts¡­ he would be able resist even perfected Ancestral Fiends and stall for time as long as the Fiend Ancestor did not demean himself by getting involved.


    "Let''s set off." Nezha ordered coldly.


    "Boom!"


    He led the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions and a hundred thousand Heavenly troops as they tore right through the void and departed the Heavenly Courts, heading straight for the Effulgent dominion''s Great Chang world.

 542 World Transformation

    Chapter 542: World Transformation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Over at the Heavenly Courts, the time it took from the detection of the Great Chang world''s commotion to the informing of the Jade Emperor and his subsequent orders of sending Heavenly troops down to the lower realm¡­ ran a little slow.


    Meanwhile, in the Great Chang world.


    Boundless stellar light descended across it.


    Qin Yun stood high above Grand Dominance City. He had also recognized Fiend Supremacy Black Wing who was famous throughout the Three Realms. He could not help but frown as he said via voice transmission, "Senior Brother Zhang, the six fiends that came are led by Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. The array formations they have set up are even more formidable. Quickly seek reinforcements from Green Touring Palace. I will do my best to restrain them."


    "Leave the matter of requesting backup from Green Touring Palace to me," answered Ancestral Master Zhang immediately. His second Essence Soul was constantly situated in Green Touring Palace, so he was naturally most suited to call for backup.


    Qin Yun had already condensed 360 Stellar Flying Swords around him.


    "Go."


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords split into five different directions, with seventy-two flying swords sent in each direction to assault each of the five half-step Ancestral Fiends.


    However, all five of them were rather far from Qin Yun. Even the nearest one was three thousand kilometers away. His flying swords, fast as they were, would still take quite some time!


    ¡­


    The Great Chang world''s Heavenly Dao fully exerted its fury on these fiends.


    "Boom!"


    As bolts of lightning smote down, they would naturally dissipate when they came about ten feet away from Black Wing. They completely failed to touch his body.


    Standing on a mountaintop, Black Wing frowned slightly. "This Small World''s Heavenly Dao completely discriminates against us. It prevents us from even stirring a sliver of the Heaven and Earth might! Not only are we unable to use it, it even fully suppresses us. It has reduced my strength by 20%. The Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm represses me further, causing my strength to drop another 10%¡­ As for those five half-step Ancestral Fiends, those that are mostly good at array formations and Dharma spells have had even more obvious decreases in strength."


    When experts traded blows, they usually did so using the Heaven and Earth might!


    Even when fighting in melee combat, they would also use some of the Heaven and Earth might. As for array formations and Dharma spells¡­ most of them relied on the Heaven and Earth might! For instance, casting Dharma spells in places devoid of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies would not produce much strength at all. They could only be maintained with one''s internal Dharmic powers. Black Wing and company were experiencing something worse. Not only were they unable to use it, they were even repressed. Every portion of Dharmic powers they expended meant one portion less for them. They could only use pills to replenish their Dharmic powers.


    The entire Small World''s Heavenly Dao was suppressing them at full force.


    Black Wing cultivated his body, so the effect on his strength was trivial.


    "Fiend King Xiao, I''ll first stall him. You are to open a world passageway and try to convert this world as quickly as possible," said Black Wing via a long-distance karmic voice transmission.


    "Leave it to me," replied Fiend King Xiao.


    "Alright." Black Wing immediately spread a pair of black wings as he flapped them.


    Whoosh.


    A black shadow phased away as he flew in the direction of Grand Dominance City.


    "So fast!"


    Qin Yun saw this scene clearly though the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. "Despite being suppressed by the Heaven and Earth, as well as the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, his strength has only been reduced by 30%. His speed is still that terrifying? He''s faster than my Stellar Flying Swords."


    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords could travel 7500 kilometers in seconds!


    But as for Black Wing, he could travel 9000 kilometers in the same amount of time! This was with his strength impaired, or he could travel 10,000 kilometers in the same amount of time.


    Flying speed¡­ was something that became increasingly harder to improve the faster it was.


    Under ordinary circumstances, Dharma treasures were faster. For a body to be faster than Stellar Flying Swords? It was obvious how terrifying he was. When it came to flying speed, Black Wing was definitely heads and shoulders above ordinary Golden Immortals and Buddhas.


    "I''m much slower than him even if I engage in Sword Kinesis Flight." Qin Yun''s expression changed drastically as he looked far into the distance at Fiend King Xiao. "He is opening up a world passageway?"


    ¡­


    Fiend King Xiao was dressed in gray robes as he stood above a city. He powered the world passageway array formation beneath the city with his surging Dharmic powers. It was an array formation refined personally by an Ancestral Fiend. It reached the limits of what a small-sized world could withstand. It allowed third firmament Skyfiends to pass through at most.


    Boom!


    Immediately, a black spatial vortex that linked to a passageway formed.


    "Descend, Fiendish Heavenly Dao!" Just the mere conjuring of Fiend King Xiao''s Dharmic powers was enough to allow a Fiendish Dao world''s Heavenly Dao to enter the tunnel.


    Through the world passageway, another Heavenly Dao from another Fiendish Dao world seeped into the Great Chang world, only to be resisted by its Heavenly Dao.


    The Heavenly Dao of both Small Worlds began clashing.


    Boom!


    Through the large world passageway, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao flowed in at full strength. As the external Heavenly Dao barely entered fifty kilometers of the Great Chang world, it darkened every spot within that fifty kilometers as copious amounts of fiendish auras enveloped the area.


    "The infiltration of Fiendish Heavenly Dao?" Qin Yun''s expression changed drastically. "Go!"


    He shot out his most important Intrinsic Flying Sword from his side.


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword went straight for Fiend King Xiao.


    And Black Wing, who was rushing towards him, was astonished. "What a fast flying sword. It''s faster than me. Could that flying sword be a Connate Numinous treasure?"


    The Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure, Misty Rain Sword, was naturally not too fast if Qin Yun engaged Sword Kinesis Flight with it. It was only equivalent to ordinary mighty figures, but if the sword flew alone¡­ its speed would be much faster. It could fly 15,000 kilometers in seconds!


    "Fiend King Xiao, be careful. Qin Yun''s flying sword is probably a Connate Numinous treasure." Black Wing sent a karmic voice transmission. Meanwhile, he flew frantically towards Grand Dominance City.


    ¡­


    "His flying sword is a Connate Numinous treasure?" Fiend King Xiao spied from afar and he also saw the terrifying stream of light heading for him. It was astoundingly fast. "He''s only an Essence Soul sword immortal. Even if it''s a Connate Numinous treasure, how much of its power can he deliver?"


    Fiend King Xiao looked down. "This world will ultimately become a world for the Fiendish Dao."


    "Obliterate."


    He smiled as he struck downwards with his palm. Whoosh¡ª


    A palm phantom tens of kilometers in size appeared above the city. Following that, he pressed it down beneath him, appalling the numerous people in the city. But with a bam¡ª


    Countless buildings in the city below were reduced to dust as all the humans and livestock were obliterated. A huge palm tens of kilometers wide was left imprinted on the land.


    The death of numerous beings would return vital energy back to the Heaven and Earth.


    However¡­ it returned to the Fiendish Heavenly Dao which was encompassing the region. After absorbing this energy, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao managed to encroach upon even more of the Great Chang world. It began expanding out to 150 kilometers.


    "Fiend King Xiao, you are courting death!" An angry bellow resounded throughout the world.


    Qin Yun had seen everything clearly through his Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    However, he was unable to stop a half-step Ancestral Fiend with just stellar forces.


    Among the five half-step Ancestral Fiends¡­ the most famous one was Fiend King Xiao.


    "Hahaha, courting death? As a Fiend King of the sea of blood lineage, it takes more than just anyone to kill me." Fiend King Xiao scoffed in contempt.


    Fiend King Xiao was the most special one among the five half-step Ancestral Fiends because he was a Fiend King of the sea of blood lineage. He was also specially chosen by Patriarch Bojia to transform the world. The transformation of worlds usually went very slowly and was time-consuming. As a sea of blood lineage expert who was unafraid of committing sins, he was a lot faster.


    The spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage were known as fiends among fiends.


    The spirit-devouring lineage had the most terrifying ''jaws.'' The half-step Ancestral Fiends of this lineage could even devour Connate Numinous treasures. Their frontal strength was extremely powerful.


    The sea of blood lineage''s frontal strength was considered ordinary, but they were known as virtually unkillable.


    Therefore, it was relatively risk-free for Fiend Kings from the sea of blood lineage to take action.


    "Fiend King Xiao."


    Standing above Grand Dominance City, Qin Yun''s eyes turned red.


    Although he knew that Black Wing had led five subordinates and that many of the array formations were mysterious and terrifying, making it a tremendous catastrophe for the Great Chang world, to witness Fiend King Xiao obliterate a city of his fellow men was intolerably infuriating for Qin Yun.


    He controlled his Misty Rain Sword with all his strength as it went straight for Fiend King Xiao.


    "You came?" Fiend King Xiao shot a glance over.


    "Boom!"


    To cover 15,000 kilometers in seconds, the Misty Rain Sword appeared across the horizon as a dazzling stream of light.


    Just after it appeared at the horizon, it appeared right in front of him!


    It was extremely fast!


    "That''s pretty fast, but what use is speed alone?" Fiend King Xiao thought nothing of it. "What can a mere half-step Golden Immortal do to me?"

 543 Qin Yuns Sixth Sword Move

    Chapter 543: Qin Yun''s Sixth Sword Move


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Black Wing flapped his wings as he tore through the sky, moving at a speed much faster than any Dharma treasure of half-step Golden Immortals. Ordinary Skyfiends would even fail to make out his location.


    He was constantly watching Fiend King Xiao. "Now that the Fiendish Heavenly Dao has infiltrated, Fiend King Xiao is enveloped by it. He is no longer met with the suppression by the Heaven and Earth powers and will be able to deliver his usual strength. Even if he''s no match for Qin Yun, it should be easy for him to stay alive."


    "Swoosh!"


    Five thousand kilometers away, Xiao was equally confident facing Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword as well. With a wave of his hand, twelve blood-colored curved blades flew out. Each of them seemed like a blood-colored crescent as they flew through the air with a disenchanted beauty. They mystically flew towards the Misty Rain Sword in a concerted effort to intercept it.


    "Kill." As he hovered above Grand Dominance City, Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword remotely.


    The Misty Rain Sword flashed through the blades.


    The void warped as faint illusions formed.


    Amid the illusions, a wisp of misty rain tore through the blockade formed by the twelve blood-colored crescents. It stabbed into Xiao''s chest, causing him to widen his eyes. His Dharma treasure had failed in its blockade as he looked down at his chest. Although his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones were extremely resilient, a gaping hole had been torn through his body. However, it was rapidly healing.


    "I can''t even block it? Not even one strike?" Xiao found it unbelievable.


    "Oh no."


    Black Wing, who was flying in Qin Yun''s direction, had a drastic change in expression. He had a keen eye and he instantly noticed the terrifying might of Qin Yun''s strike. "This is definitely a move at the level of mighty figures. Furthermore, it contains the profound charm of space-time."


    Indeed, after Qin Yun exited seclusion from the Myriad Dharma Pool, he had been cultivating in his homeworld, working mainly on researching moves with the space-time aspect imbued in them.


    It resulted in his sixth sword move!


    He had figured out five moves in the Myriad Dharma Pool, and this was the sixth move. It was at the Golden Immortal level just like the five moves, but it had a different inclination.


    The sixth sword move¡ªEvanescent Illusion¡ªcontained the profoundness of space-time. It was at present, the fastest attack Qin Yun had!


    It was so fast that Xiao, a half-step Ancestral Fiend, failed to defend against it.


    "His strength is way higher than Fiend King Xiao''s. A mistake. We made a mistake!" Black Wing was alarmed. "He''s not a half-step Golden Immortal. He has the strength of a mighty figure!"


    "I can''t allow him to kill Fiend King Xiao! Fiend King Xiao is extremely important to our cause of converting the Great Chang world into a Fiendish Dao world." Black Wing instantly flapped his wings as he did a bend and changed his trajectory. He flew towards Xiao as he sent a voice transmission. "Fiend King Xiao, hold on. I''ll come to help you now. Hold on until I arrive."


    Five thousand kilometers away, Xiao had already pulled his twelve blood-colored crescents back to surround him. He held a black fiend figurine as black shadows enveloped him. It completely blanketed his body as he focused on defense! The strike from before had frightened him. However, he still felt relieved after hearing Black Wing''s voice transmission. "Fiend Supremacy, don''t worry. This Qin Yun''s flying sword is powerful, but I can still last a few seconds¡ª"


    "Swoosh!"


    The flying sword delivered another attack as the twelve revolving blood-colored crescents tried their best to hinder its approach. However, the flying sword still tore through them as though they were in different spatial dimensions.


    The flying sword stabbed into the black shadow, and just this strike alone caused the black shadow to tremble and turn faint.


    "Why do I still fail to withstand it?" Xiao was alarmed.


    Shoo!


    Shoo!


    Every strike was Evanescent Illusion. Three strikes were sufficient for the black shadow to dissipate as Xiao was once again stabbed.


    This move was clearly most effective against Xiao. Qin Yun''s other five moves were slower, and once they were blocked by the twelve blood-colored crescents, it would probably buy Xiao time. He had to be fast! He had to kill Xiao before Black Wing arrived.


    One strike followed another.


    Xiao failed to defend each strike as his body was penetrated each and every time. Either his chest was stabbed or his head exploded. He was able to rapidly heal from these injuries, but doing so drained his stamina quickly. After a few strikes, he found it difficult to heal again. He immediately consumed a blood-colored pill to restore his stamina.


    Qin Yun continued his relentless assault.


    After several strikes, another blood-colored pill was consumed.


    Several strikes later, a third blood-colored pill was consumed!


    "Fiend Supremacy, I can''t hold out much longer." Xiao was gripped by anxiety.


    "Do you not have other means? Why can''t you hold out for such a short period of time?" Black Wing was fuming with anxiety. What could he do when they were separated by such a great distance? Although he was fast, allowing him to traverse the 5000 kilometers in seconds, Qin Yun was an expert at the mighty figure level. He could deliver more than ten thousand ordinary attacks in the same span of time. Even for a potent attack like Evanescent Illusion, he could deliver more than a hundred in those few seconds.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    The flying sword was very fast.


    Each strike only drained Qin Yun of some of his psyche strength since it was at the Golden Immortal level.


    The fourth pill was soon followed by the fifth.


    Xiao''s body was constantly being penetrated as he began to turn incorporeal. His blood-colored body turned faint as he looked into Qin Yun''s direction and said with a nasty expression. "Qin Yun, you are ruthless. However, I will never die if my blood sea is not destroyed! Wait and see. I will definitely avenge today."


    "Don''t worry. There will come a day when I destroy your blood sea and obliterate you." Qin Yun''s voice resounded through the world by using the stellar forces as a medium.


    "Hahaha, I''ll be waiting."


    Following Xiao''s rapturous laugh, his body finally dissipated into nothingness.


    However, Qin Yun knew very well that the true bodies of sea of blood lineage Fiend Kings were blood seas! The bodies that appeared outside were just a condensed avatar. Although the loss incurred by an avatar''s destruction were huge, they could recover slowly with time. It did not damage their foundations at all. This was also the reason why sea of blood lineage experts were virtually unkillable.


    As the blood sea was their actual bodies, they expended all their treasures on their blood seas. In contrast, they did not put as much effort into their avatars.


    Things like life-preservation treasures?


    Or Dharma treasures for combat?


    They did not invest much in them! They were prepared to lose their avatars to begin with. Therefore, spirit-devouring lineage Fiend Kings were known to have ordinary strength, but they remained immortal if their blood sea wasn''t destroyed¡­ The destruction they wreaked in the Three Realms was in no way inferior to the spirit-devouring lineage.


    Just the destruction of an avatar was not enough to appease Qin Yun''s anger. The death of his fellow men in a short span of time had infuriated Qin Yun greatly. He was determined to seek revenge by killing Xiao.


    "Crack!"


    The Misty Rain Sword streaked out in another trajectory as it shot towards the stable world passageway.


    The Fiendish Heavenly Dao was pouring in through that, and as the Misty Rain Sword unleashed its assault, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao unleashed its wrath on it by repressing it with its Heaven and Earth powers. Lightning bolts smote down on it, but¡­ they failed to obstruct the Misty Rain Sword in any way. The Fiendish Heavenly Dao of a Small World? Even a half-step Golden Immortal could withstand it easily, much less Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Boom." The Intrinsic Flying Sword struck the world passageway, and although it was an array formation personally refined by an Ancestral Fiend, making it extremely stable, Qin Yun''s full-strength strike was still able to make the world passageway tremble.


    "No!" Black Wing had a nasty expression. Although he flew quickly, he could only watch helplessly. Qin Yun destroyed the world passageway with just three strikes.


    "Boom!"


    The world passageway began to collapse as the array formation beneath it, the thing that stabilized it, exploded.


    The Fiendish Heavenly Dao which had spread out for hundreds of kilometers rapidly contracted and returned to its original Small World. The area was soon covered by the Great Chang world''s Heavenly Dao as Heaven and Earth spiritual energies permeated the area once more.


    However, the area had turned into a land of death. There was no one left alive.


    "Next." Qin Yun''s killing intent raged. The Misty Rain Sword Intent immediately drew out a trajectory as it shot towards the next nearest half-step Ancestral Fiend. However, Qin Yun knew that the other four half-step Ancestral Fiends were here with their real bodies. They definitely spent greater efforts on their life-preservation means. Even though they were repressed by the Heaven and Earth powers, it was unlikely that they would be easily slain.


    But they still had to be killed. Their survival meant danger for the Great Chang world.


    "You still want to kill more?" Black Wing''s face was grotesque as he flapped his wings in continued pursuit.


    His flying speed was greater than several Golden Immortals and Buddhas, but he was slower than the Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure. As the strongest of the Bojia clan''s eleven Fiend Supremacies, he lived up to his name. However, being slower than the Misty Rain Sword did not change anything. All he could do was follow behind the Misty Rain Sword.

 544 Forces From All Over Gathering

    Chapter 544: Forces From All Over Gathering


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing has led subordinates in an attempt to occupy the Great Chang world. The Great Chang world is Junior Brother Qin''s and Junior Brother Divine Firmament''s homeworld."


    "Junior Brother Divine Firmament is seeking help everywhere."


    "Sigh, we can''t help even if we want to. Fiend Supremacy Black Wing is as strong as a mighty figure. Our bit of strength isn''t sufficient for us to join the foray."


    Numerous Green Touring Palace disciples were engaging in a flurry of discussion.


    Now, Ancestral Master Zhang''s second Essence Soul was frantically seeking help from everyone in Green Touring Palace. Time was tight. He naturally went everywhere to seek help and tried his best to pass the information to various powerhouses in Green Touring Palace.


    And in a yard.


    Sa Xu, who was cultivating, also received Ancestral Master Zhang''s distress call.


    "Junior Brother Qin? Junior Brother Zhang?" With a mere thought, Sa Xu had departed Green Touring Palace.


    Swoosh.


    A blurry light descended as Sa Xu arrived in the starry space beyond the Great Chang world. The Heavenly troops had yet to arrive.


    "Oh?" Sa Xu looked down and instantly saw everything that was happening in the Great Chang world. The void was in a sealed state across the world, and there were layers of array formations encompassing the continent which housed the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures! Dense stellar light had descended everywhere.


    "The void is sealed everywhere?" Sa Xu frowned slightly. He immediately transformed into a bolt of lightning as he plunged straight down.


    Shoo!


    He flew extremely fast as he swooped down towards the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures.


    As he flew, Sa Xu also monitored the situation.


    He saw that Black Wing had a half-step Ancestral Fiend in tow as they proceeded at tremendous speeds to help another half-step Ancestral Fiend.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" More than 200 Stellar Flying Swords surrounded a half-step Ancestral Fiend as they attacked him. He wore gray robes, but he had eight arms. He was producing hand seals and controlling an array formation to defend against the two hundred plus Stellar Flying Swords with greatly difficulty.


    This half-step Ancestral Fiend''s name was Palatial Lord Cave Vassal.


    Palatial Lord Cave Vassal was good at array formations, and was rather famous among fiends. At that moment, he was controlling 1536 wooden talismans to form a perfect defense.


    "Darn it. I''m good at array formations, but my array formation can''t access any of the Heaven and Earth powers. I''m repressed by the world as well as the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm. I can''t even use half my strength." Palatial Lord Cave Vassal was gripped by anxiety. "I can defend myself against mighty figures usually, but I only have 30-40% of my strength left now¡­"


    "We''ve only had a day to set up this array formation in the Great Chang world! And we have already been discovered by Qin Yun?"


    "Is he that free that he can just check his entire homeworld for no good reason?" Palatial Lord Cave Vassal was furious and anxious. Qin Yun''s early discovery of them had messed up their plans.


    Under normal circumstances, even if Qin Yun had a domain-type divine power like the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, he would not cast it to check over his family clan every other day. Immortals did not like being spied upon since there were always times they did not wish for others to see what they were doing.


    This time, it was Qin Yun''s cultivation and testing of his move that allowed him to luckily detect them ahead of time.


    "Cave Vassal. Be careful of his flying sword." Black Wing sent an anxious karmic voice transmission.


    Cave Vassal turned his head to look over.


    A stream of light had appeared at the horizon before appearing right in front of him in a flash.


    "His flying sword is here." Cave Vassal turned even more nervous. He had already seen Qin Yun casting his flying sword previously.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying flying sword launched its assault.


    "It''s here, it''s here." Cave Vassal controlled his array formation with full strength, but was unable to produce even half his normal strength. He was already faltering after being repressed by more than two hundred Stellar Flying Swords. Now, with a boom, just the Misty Rain Sword''s first strike was enough to blow through the array formation he controlled.


    "Boom!" Ripples of light flashed across Cave Vassal''s body as he blocked the Misty Rain Sword once again.


    "Fiend Supremacy, help me! Help me!" Cave Vassal pleaded for help through a karmic voice transmission in his anxiety.


    He was only at the half-step Ancestral Fiend level, and that was because of his array formations. With his array formations drastically weakening, he was unable to defend against Qin Yun''s flying sword¡­ How many blows could his other life-preservation means withstand?


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Every time the flying sword attacked, it would expend objects that protected Cave Vassal.


    Just seven strikes¡ªeach with the strength of a mighty figure¡ªwas enough to drain Cave Vassal''s of all his treasures as he wallowed into despair.


    "No!" Cave Vassal let out a furious roar as his face was covered in scales. Following that, he exploded.


    He had chosen to self-destruct at the final moment.


    Death by self-destruction!


    He hoped that he could reincarnate with a wisp of his soul.


    "Self-destruction?" Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword continued sweeping across the violent explosion, destroying Cave Vassal''s soul as much as possible. However, he had yet to attain a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, so his insights into the soul were not profound enough. He was unable to completely annihilate the remnant soul. Furthermore, Cave Vassal had engaged in self-destruction ahead of time. There was still a minute possibility that he could be received and awakened.


    If a real mighty figure were to take action, they would be able to completely destroy a soul, leaving one''s True Spirit for reincarnation. A True Spirit reincarnation made it impossible to be received.


    "I''ve finally killed a half-step Ancestral Fiend," thought Qin Yun.


    Back in the Jade Screen world, he had only assisted in his kill of Fiend King Zhuhou. Mighty Miracle God and the Heavenly troops had played a very important role.


    This time, he had done so independently. It was also because he was in his homeworld. The worldly repression prevented his opponent from using even half his strength.


    "Next one."


    The two hundred plus Stellar Flying Swords and the Misty Rain Sword flew straight for the next half-step Ancestral Fiend.


    "Patriarch''s intelligence is wrong. Qin Yun is not a half-step Golden Immortal. He is as strong as a mighty figure." Black Wing flew with a half-step Ancestral Fiend. He was helpless as well. What could he do when one of them could be killed with just eight strikes?


    ¡­


    "Junior Brother Qin has also reached the level of a mighty figure?" Sa Xu watched everything happening beneath him as he flew at a tremendous speed.


    After Sa Xu flew another five thousand kilometers¡ª


    Black Wing had rescued the remaining three half-step Ancestral Fiends. After all, these half-step Ancestral Fiends were pretty well equipped with life-preservation means. Unlike than Palatial Lord Cave Vassal, whose strength was repressed, as well as Fiend King Xiao, whose protective Dharma treasures were rather ordinary, the other three half-step Ancestral Fiends managed to last until Black Wing''s arrival. Black Wing flew very quickly, so he gave Qin Yun little time.


    "Sou!"


    Outside the Great Chang world, another figure flew down. He was a man in red robes.


    "Junior Brother Sa," the red-robed man said smilingly with a voice transmission. "You came too."


    "Senior Brother Zou." Sa Xu was flying as a bolt of lightning as he replied with a voice transmission. "Let''s be quick. Fiend Supremacy Black Wing and company have long set up a massive array. It encompasses the continent that houses the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures. It looks difficult to crack."


    "I believe other fellow disciples will soon arrive." The red-robed man nodded.


    Among the three Daoist factions, the Green Touring Palace had the largest number of disciples. It also had the most disciples that could match mighty figures, far surpassing that of the Jade Void Palace and Eight Scenic Palace. The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was famous for imparting knowledge to all people without discrimination. He had numerous disciples, and when a particular disciple sought help, the other disciples would arrive one after another.


    "Boom!"


    Space beyond the Great Chang world quaked as dense regiments of Heavenly troops appeared obstreperously. Leading them was a handsome youth draped in the Red Armillary Sash. He stood barefoot in the void as he extended his right hand. A spear encompassed in flames appeared in his hand as he looked coldly at the world beneath him. He observed everything in the Great Chang world.


    Behind him were the twelve Lunar Mansions! All of them matched mighty figures, and they were proficient in various aspects. An array formation collectively set up by the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions could match that of a pinnacle Golden Immortal.


    And behind them were the hundred-thousand-strong Heavenly troops! They were split into different details. Each detail was led by a general. There were a few generals who matched that of mighty figures. One of them was Mighty Miracle God.


    "Set up eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays!" Nezha gave the order. "Seal the Great Chang world!"


    "Order received."


    The hundred-thousand-strong Heavenly troops immediately set up the arrays. The Inescapable Net Arrays could combine with each other, and had their strength enhanced when it reached the sixth, twelfth, and eighteenth mark.


    Under ordinary circumstances, sending a hundred thousand Heavenly troops was already an act of extremely immense scale. Having any more Heavenly troops at the Skyimmortal realm turned meaningless.


    "Twenty-eight Lunar Mansions, quickly capture Fiend Supremacy Black Wing!" Nezha gave the order.


    "Order received."


    After the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions responded, they transformed into twenty-eight beams of stellar light as they rapidly charged into the Great Chang world.


    "The Heavenly troops are here." Immortal Sa Xu and Daoist Zou, who had arrived in the Great Chang world before them, were delighted.


    Black Wing, who had just saved the third half-step Ancestral Fiend, looked up as his expression changed slightly. "The Heavenly troops are here. Furthermore, they are led by the Third Prince himself. There''s also the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions. They really think highly of me."


    "It''s the Heavenly troops!" Ancestral Master Zhang, who was hovering above the Divine Firmament Chapter, and Qin Yun, who was above Grand Dominance City, could not help but be delighted. Strong reinforcements had arrived!

 545 Fiend Supremacy Black Wing and Qin Yun

    Chapter 545: Fiend Supremacy Black Wing and Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    At that moment, some Great Chang world Golden Immortals, upper echelons of the Heavenly Courts, the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, as well as Patriarch Bojia and other Ancestral Fiends were watching the situation in the Great Chang world remotely.


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions swooped down as they rushed towards the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures.


    "Boom!"


    Immortal Sa Xu had already flown to the periphery of the massive array formation enveloping the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures. With a beckon of his hand, lightning smote down from the heavens and struck the array formation.


    The black barrier enclosed the entire continent.


    "Rumble!" Regardless of the lightning''s mighty smites, the barrier remained unperturbed.


    "Junior Brother Sa, this array formation was formed from the combination of several array formations. Furthermore, judging by the mystical charms it contains, it must have been personally refined by an Ancestral Fiend. For them to set it up here, it''s precisely meant to initiate the construction of a new fiendish garrison in the Great Chang world. They mean for it to fend off the Heavenly troops! We alone would not pose much of a threat to it," Daoist Zou flew over rapidly as he said via voice transmission.


    "It looks very powerful, but it has a fatal flaw." Sa Xu had already released thirty-six array flags which were hovering high in the sky. They were conjuring terrifying lightning to constantly smite the black barrier.


    "The flaw is that they have yet to convert the Great Chang world to a Fiendish Dao world! The present world still rejects the Fiendish Dao, so the array formations aren''t able to use the Heaven and Earth powers. Just keeping the array powered draws upon the array formation''s energies itself. It''s unable to get replenishment from the Heaven and Earth powers¡­ Once the array formation''s energies are depleted, the array formation will naturally crumble," replied Sa Xu via voice transmission.


    Daoist Zou''s eyes lit up as he nodded with a smile. "Yes, without the replenishment of the Heaven and Earth powers, the more intense our attacks, the more demanding it''ll be on the array formation''s energy reserves."


    Daoist Zou had also arrived.


    He threw six talisman amulets out that floated in the sky, erupting into terrifying flames. They were dark red in color, with might that appeared capable of evaporating the seas. They constantly wicked away at the black barrier.


    Immediately following that¡ª


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions arrived!


    "Break!"


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were in formation as they collectively produced a faint, massive twenty-eight constellation phantom around them. Their terrifying strike even caused the void to collapse before it landed on the black barrier. The barrier trembled slightly, but it still managed to withstand the strike.


    "Attack! This array formation isn''t being replenished by the Heaven and Earth powers, so it can''t last long," bellowed Horn from the twenty-eight mansions.


    "Alright."


    "Charge!"


    The Lunar Mansions worked collectively as they unleashed a barrage of attacks with terrifying might.


    ¡­


    "Darn it."


    Black Wing shot a glance at the external world and saw Immortal Sa Xu, Daoist Zou, and the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions attacking the array formations with their various means from outside.


    "If this world had been transformed successfully, the array formation would have been able to keep absorbing the Heaven and Earth powers¡­ It would have greatly enhance the chances of successfully fending off attacks. But now, the array formation is being drained without any replenishments in sight." Black Wing looked anxiously towards the three half-step Ancestral Fiends.


    One of the three was setting up an array formation.


    "Is it okay?" Black Wing urged.


    "It''s done." The man with a snake''s tail had finally set up the formation that he immediately activated.


    Boom!


    The array formation which was set up finally triggered the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Heavenly Dao.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Black distorted Heavenly Dao began permeating outwards with the array formation as core. It did not pass through a world passageway, but purely from induction! It was only possible for the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Heavenly Dao to do so.


    The black distorted Heavenly Dao spread and, in a blink of an eye, covered about fifteen hundred meters before it was completely repressed by the Great Chang world''s Heavenly Dao, stopping its advancement.


    "There''s no way to establish a stable, large-scale world passageway anymore." Black Wing took note of the situation. "The only way is to trigger the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Fiendish Heavenly Dao. Unfortunately, it only spans fifteen hundred meters."


    An overly small range made the expansion slow as well.


    "Begin transforming the Great Chang world." Black Wing gave the order. "If the transformation succeeds, the array formation will be able to invoke the Heaven and Earth powers, doubling its strength! We will then have a fifty percent chance of fending off the Heavenly troops."


    "But the sins¡­" The three half-step Ancestral Fiends were somewhat hesitant.


    They were not from the spirit-devouring or blood of sea lineages. They were still afraid of the repercussions of committing too many sins! Although half-step Ancestral Fiends could commit many sins without problems, allowing them to massacre millions of ordinary mortals, the death of too many would still exceed the limits of what they could bear¡­ It was likely life-threatening! The graver the sins, the more harsh the Heavenly Punishment was. They could withstand some light Heavenly Punishment, but if the Heavenly Punishment was too harsh, even they might be obliterated instantly.


    As for the population of the Great Chang world? There was just too many!


    "Slaughter a million first. Later, we will use slower means. Let''s hope we can convert the Great Chang world in a day," instructed Black Wing.


    "It''s a pity Fiend King Xiao is dead. With his massacring abilities, he would probably be able to massacre the entirety of the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures in ten minutes, allowing the world to be completely transformed." The three half-step Ancestral Fiends were somewhat helpless, for the situation they were in was turning from bad to worse. They had come under orders. If they did not use all their strength, Patriarch Bojia might destroy them himself! They had no choice but to risk their lives.


    "Kill!" The three half-step Ancestral Fiends surveyed the area as a terrifying blast swept in every direction. Immediately, buildings collapsed as lives were ended. After the infiltrating Fiendish Heavenly Dao absorbed the vital forces, it rapidly expanded to a range of five kilometers.


    However, a massive Water Cage enclosed the area, trapping them within.


    "All of you deserve death!" Qin Yun''s voice resounded angrily.


    The 360 Stellar Flying Swords cast Water Cage, sealing the area completely. Qin Yun even used his boundless stellar forces to move the nearby humans away. People were alarmed and baffled when they began flying.


    "Fiend Supremacy, we can''t tear through the sword flash. We aren''t able to kill the humans outside." The three half-step Ancestral Fiends looked at Black Wing.


    "Crack!"


    Black Wing held a trident in hand as he charged forward with a flap of his wings.


    "Boom!"


    When he charged forward, Black Wing instantly felt the obstructive forces of Water Cage. Water flows constantly fended him off. Although his might was indomitable, allowing him to cause wanton destruction, a blade cleaving water would only make it flow. Every spot he damaged was rapidly restored! Black Wing could only ferociously charge out of the Water Cage.


    "My Water Cage can''t trap him." Qin Yun instantly understood. "However, it''s sufficient to trap the three half-step Ancestral Fiends."


    "What a potent enemy-trapping move." Black Wing surveyed his surroundings. All life in a five kilometer radius had been moved away by Qin Yun. Any further attempts to kill and feed the Fiendish Heavenly Dao were made impossible.


    "Fiend Supremacy, we are trapped inside here. Even our Dharma treasures can''t help usescape. Furthermore, there are no humans to massacre in the vicinity. What do we do?" The trio turned anxious.


    "Leave it to me."


    Black Wing''s eyes were filled with murderous intent as he flapped his wings and flew straight towards Grand Dominance City.


    The trio easily remained unharmed through their collective efforts, but they were just unable to tear out of the Water Cage''s confinement.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun trapped the half-step Ancestral Fiends with his 360 Stellar Flying Swords. At the same time, he summoned his Misty Rain Sword back. However, it flew past Grand Dominance City and headed to an island situated at the mouth of a river in the East Sea.


    "Destroy!" The Misty Rain Sword was attacking the island with full strength.


    "Although these fiends have set up these array formations, I discovered them ahead of time. The array formations they set up aren''t perfect. It''s difficult attacking from the outside, but it''s relatively easy if I cause destruction on the inside." Qin Yun knew this well. Furthermore, he had swept across more than half the Great Chang world while testing his move. He long knew where all the array flags and disks were located.


    "Boom!" The island was victim to the flying sword''s fervent attacks, and in just three explosive attacks, the island blasted apart, destroying the array disk within. It caused the black barrier that enveloped the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures to tremble slightly. Clearly, it was affected by the blow.


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Bojia Palace, Patriarch Bojia was watching everything that was happening in the Great Chang world remotely. He knitted his brows. "No good."


    "Black Wing, you have to do your best to intercept Qin Yun." Bojia sent a distant voice transmission.


    The patriarch''s voice sounded in Black Wing''s ears.


    "Yes."


    Black Wing was also feeling very anxious. If the array formations had been set up perfectly, they would have been layered atop each other. A perfect fusion would make it flawless both inside and out. Attacks would be useless against it! But now, with the array formations only partially set up, many of the supplementary array formations inside had yet to be set up.


    It was also much easier to attack from the inside.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you have to be careful." A deep and powerful voice sounded in Qin Yun''s ears. "All you need to do is trap the three half-step Ancestral Fiends and prevent them from transforming the world! That would be a tremendous contribution to our cause! You must not defend against Black Wing forcefully. He is extremely powerful."


    "Protect yourself well. As long as you successfully endure through this, we will definitely win."


    Two voice transmissions were sent to Qin Yun.


    He knew that the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were sending him voice transmissions.


    "Junior Brother Qin, don''t be rash. Fiend Supremacy Black Wing is extremely powerful. Even I am not his match." Sa Xu also advised him in an anxious voice transmission. "Make sure to be careful."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Sa." Qin Yun replied as he summoned his Misty Rain Sword back to him quickly.


    "He''s here."


    He saw at a glance the distant Black Wing staring at him with eyes burning with killing intent.


    "It''s all because of this Qin Yun. He spoiled our plans! As long as I finish him, there''s still hope that we can occupy the Great Chang world." Black Wing''s rage burned.


    "These fiends." Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent as well. This group of fiends had caused the deaths of numerous fellow men. If he had not made an early discovery, the billions of lives in his entire homeworld might have been wiped out. Just the thought of it gave ammunition to his wrathful anger.


    At that moment, the Ancestral Fiends of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the divine generals of the Heavenly Courts, and Immortal Sa Xu, Daoist Zou, the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions, who were in charge of attacking the array formation, as well as Third Prince Nezha, were watching him.


    They knew very well that the battle between Black Wing and Qin Yun was crucial.


    If Qin Yun was killed or captured¡­


    The Great Chang world would be rapidly transformed into a fiendish world. The fiends would then have hopes of successfully constructing a garrison.

 546 Array Cracked. Escape!

    Chapter 546: Array Cracked. Escape!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The massive fiendish array enveloped the continent that housed the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures!


    Immortal Sa Xu and Daoist Zou, as well as the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions, were barricaded outside the array as they attacked it with all their strength.


    And inside the array, there was only Qin Yun who was stalling for time!


    "I cultivated the Lightning Dharma for more than a thousand years in the Lightning Beast Manor. My realm increased tremendously. Over the years since I left the Lightning Beast Manor, I consumed the three Connate Lightning Fruits." Ancestral Master Zhang looked from afar as he felt regret. "I''m about seventy or eighty percent confident regarding the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma''s ninth firmament Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation. However, I always believed that there was sufficient time and hoped to be a hundred percent confident. So I wasn''t in a rush to gather treasures to cultivate my Godfiend avatars."


    "And now, there''s no way I can breakthrough when my twelve Lightning Godfiends are imperfect."


    "I can only watch helplessly as Qin Yun fights desperately with the fiends. I can do nothing but seek reinforcements." Ancestral Master Zhang blamed himself.


    For so many years, he had been protecting the Great Chang world. He had turned back the powers of darkness several times.


    But now, all he could do was be a onlooker! He was not a match for any of the five half-step Ancestral Fiends.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun, die!" Black Wing flapped his wings and streaked across hundreds of kilometers in a blink of an eye. He charged Qin Yun with the trident he wielded.


    "Do you have what it takes?"


    Qin Yun released his flying sword from afar as well.


    Whoosh.


    The Misty Rain Sword''s speed was far greater than Black Wing''s. It instantly crossed several hundred kilometers like a dazzling burning meteor that soared at Black Wing.


    "Begone!" Black Wing brandished his trident as the void collapsed from its upheavals. Despite being repressed by the world he was in and the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm¡­ he still retained terrifying might. When his trident struck the Misty Rain Sword, it resulted in an intense explosion. The Misty Rain Sword flew backward but rapidly stabilized in midair once again.


    Black Wing''s ferocious might raged as he struck the Misty Rain Sword. The only thing he suffered was a slower speed, but he immediately followed up with another charge.


    "As expected of the head of the Bojia clan''s eleven Fiend Supremacies. Despite being repressed by the Great Chang world, he''s still stronger than me." Qin Yun instantly knew this when he crossed swords with Black Wing.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun controlled his flying sword with all his might.


    The Misty Rain Sword cast various mystical strikes while dealing with Black Wing.


    Black Wing had a powerful body and immense strength. He was also terrifyingly fast. Just his speed advantage¡­ allowed him to bully weaker Golden Immortals and Buddhas. After all, not all mighty figures were good at combat. Some enjoyed calligraphy, talisman amulets, or pill refinements. They were naturally weaker in the aspect of fighting.


    Qin Yun was a sword immortal. His Misty Rain Sword could fly 15,000 kilometers in seconds! When he cast his sword arts, the power he delivered underwent a powerful impulse, allowing him to fight Black Wing.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    The flying sword unleashed its barrage of attacks on Black Wing.


    They were either strange and unpredictable, ordinary, or extremely fast.


    With the synergy of numerous moves, Qin Yun was barely able to fight Black Wing, but even so, he was still completely at the disadvantage.


    Black Wing did not need to protect his body as he attacked with all his might. Even if Qin Yun''s flying sword struck Black Wing''s body, it only caused sparks. It failed to injure him.


    "I can''t stop him." Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. He glanced far away where the 360 Stellar Flying Swords trapped the three half-step Ancestral Fiends. If he had all the Stellar Flying Swords work together with his Misty Rain Sword¡­ perhaps the combat situation with the weakened Black Wing would be better.


    However, the trio needed to be trapped.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Black Wing charged over as the trident phased into numerous shadows as they fended off the Misty Rain Sword.


    "I can''t block him. All I can do is to try my best to stall him." Qin Yun immediately commanded the Misty Rain Sword to change its move with his mind. The flying sword transformed into a wisp of smoke as it hindered Black Wing. The mist appeared unreal as it could not be pinpointed.


    This was a move that were filled with spatial attainments out of Qin Yun''s six major moves. It''s name was¡ªSmokelike Rain!


    The sword move was like the void!


    Empty, vast, all-encompassing¡­


    Regardless how intense an enemy attack, they would feel like they were attacking empty space, yet end up being hindered in various aspects.


    "How long has he been cultivating? How is he able to figure out so many Golden Immortal level sword moves?" Black Wing frowned slightly as he paid Qin Yun''s attack no mind. Although the Misty Rain Sword hindered him, it was unable to stop his advancement.


    ******


    And elsewhere.


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were attacking the array formation which encompassed the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures with formidable might!


    "Third Prince." Horn said via voice transmission. "Qin Yun has destroyed a critical component of the array formation located at an island. The fiendish array has weakened. If we were to use the Stellar Disk, there''s chance of us rapidly cracking the array. Shall we use it? If this drags on, Qin Yun might be in danger. If a Green Touring Palace disciple who matches a mighty figure were to perish as a result, Green Touring Palace might not let this matter pass."


    In space, Nezha looked down calmly. He immediately sent a voice transmission, "Heed my order. Use the Stellar Disk and quickly crack the array."


    "Yes!" "Yes!" "Yes!"¡­


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions acknowledged the order.


    The Stellar Disk was a valuable treasure refined by the Heavenly Courts. It was a one-time item which had a value of an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. Even the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions did not dare to make the call of using it. Since the Third Prince had given the order, there was nothing the higher-ups could do even if they nagged about it.


    "Out."


    Horn waved his hand as a circular disk flew out. It floated in midair as it emitted dazzling light.


    It was even more glaring than the sun.


    Constellation patterns appeared above the disk!


    Immediately, the constellation patterns released terrifying stellar forces!


    "Crack." The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions immediately used the Stellar Disk''s powers to attack the array formation at full strength.


    The array formation was not complete and a critical component had been destroyed by Qin Yun. Now, with the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions using the Stellar Disk, the array formation began rumbling and quaking as though it was about to collapse at any moment.


    "Oh no."


    The trio who had been trapped by the 360 Stellar Flying Swords had a change in expression.


    "Fiend Supremacy, the array formation won''t last much longer. It''s about to crack."


    "We lost." The three half-step Ancestral Fiends turned flustered and indignant.


    "Why is it so fast?" Black Wing was alarmed.


    "It''s about to crack?"


    "The array formation was not completed to begin with. Just now, Qin Yun had destroyed a critical component of the array formation in an island. It caused the array formation to weaken. The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions had also used a particular treasure, increasing their attacking strength too." The three half-step Ancestral Fiends were somewhat panicking.


    "Boom!!!"


    With a resounding boom, the massive black barrier finally dissipated!


    "Kill!"


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions charged inside as they headed straight for Black Wing. As for Immortal Sa Xu and Daoist Zou, they went straight for the three half-step Ancestral Fiends. Sa Xu controlled the Lightning Dharma remotely as the Lightning Dharma descended down upon the three half-step Ancestral Fiends thousands of kilometers away.


    The trio had been using their Dharma treasures to withstand the 360 Stellar Flying Swords, but now, there was the addition of lightning.


    "Time to leave."


    The trio had grotesque expressions.


    "Fiend Supremacy, you must get Patriarch to receive us."


    "You must receive us."


    The three of them immediately released all their life-preservation items and did not hesitate to self-destruct. If Qin Yun, Sa Xu, and company killed them, they would definitely wipe out their souls. If that happened, it would be many times more difficult to be received.


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun saw the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions, Senior Brothers Sa Xu and Zou, he could not help but beam. They were about to win.


    He stood above Grand Dominance City as the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes radiated out. The domain also encompassed all of Grand Dominance City beneath him.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing."


    As the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions flew over, those good at Dharma spells had begun casting them from thousands of kilometers away.


    The Dharma spells descended upon Black Wing, but his powerful body managed to withstand the blows.


    "Darn it." Black Wing waved his hand as a black leaf flew out. It transformed into venomous snakes as they slithered towards Qin Yun''s flying sword. At the instant Qin Yun''s flying sword was stalled, Black Wing immediately brandished his trident which expanded to ten thousand feet in size. With a mighty thrust, he stabbed at the boundary of the domain.


    "I have to kill you before I leave!" Black Wing''s eyes were filled with murderous rage. Although the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were approaching, Black Wing was confident of his speed. He could easily shirk off the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions.


    "Begone!" Black Wing stabbed at the domain''s barrier with full strength.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed as well. The Misty Rain Sword had been trapped, making it impossible to aid him in time.


    "Boom!!!"


    The great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes'' domain barrier was depressed by ten feet under the trident''s mighty blow, but it remained intact.


    Despite a few mighty strikes, the barrier remained impenetrable.


    "What?" Black Wing was alarmed.


    "Disperse."


    With a thought, Qin Yun dispersed all the 360 Stellar Flying Swords which were thousands of kilometers away.


    Following that, 360 Stellar Flying Swords formed once again around him.


    "Time to leave." Black Wing did not hesitate to flee. His eyes were filled with indignation. "I can only use 70% of my strength. If I was able to use my full power, I would definitely have cracked that domain''s barrier and capture him."


    "Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword attacked like a dazzling meteor. It was so fast that Black Wing had to raise his trident to defend against it. However, his speed was affected. Immediately, the 360 Stellar Flying Swords enveloped him.


    Instantly, they formed Water Cage.


    Qin Yun''s most powerful move when it came to trapping enemies¡ªWater Cage!


    "Qin Yun, stall him!" The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were rushing over as they anxiously sent voice transmissions. "We must not let this Fiend Supremacy escape."


    "Leave it to me!" said Qin Yun via voice transmission.

 547 Capturing Alive

    Chapter 547: Capturing Alive


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Sou!


    Black Wing avoided the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions as he flew towards the cosmos in a bid to escape the Small World as soon as possible.


    "Trap him with the Inescapable Net Array!" At that moment, Nezha coldly bellowed while looking down from the cosmos.


    "Order received."


    The generals acknowledged the order.


    The eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays were activated fully at once. Back when the fiendish array enveloped the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures, the Inescapable Net Arrays were unable to fully extend their range! Now, the combined net could naturally expand.


    The golden threads criss-crossed as the combination of the eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays made the weaving even denser. It formed a complete golden-threaded cage which trapped Black Wing completely. Furthermore, golden threads began wrapping around his body.


    "Inescapable Net Arrays? Thankfully I was prepared for this!" Black Wing did not hesitate to activate a protective talisman. Immediately a blurry light blanketed his body as he brandished his trident. His every move increased in might as he tore through the golden threads'' obstruction and continued his escape.


    "Forget about escaping!"


    Sa Xu cast down his lightning from thousands of kilometers away as he smote Black Wing. Daoist Zou similarly cast his Dharma spells in the form of descending flames.


    Among the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions, a number of them began casting Dharma spells from a distance.


    But¡­


    Casting Dharma spells from a distance through the use of Heaven and Earth powers made them relatively weaker. They were typically aided by divine powers, Dharma treasures, or melee combat to unleash strength that matched a mighty figure. Dharma spells got weaker when cast from a distance, making them unable to hurt Black Wing''s body at all. However, they were still effective as a form of obstruction.


    "You won''t be able to escape!" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent. The 360 Stellar Flying Swords formed Water Cage which trapped Black Wing.


    Rip!


    Black Wing brandished his trident as he tore through the obstruction formed by the numerous golden threads before he attempted to tear through Qin Yun''s Water Cage. As the water-like sword flashes were torn through, the water constantly swished back into form. Black Wing expended a great deal of strength before he tore through the Water Cage.


    "Peng!" The Misty Rain Sword dealt another blow as it attempted to stop Black Wing.


    The Water Cage trapped Black Wing once again.


    "What?" A gray glow covered Black Wing''s body. Under the Inescapable Net Arrays'' and Water Cage''s obstruction, he found it extremely difficult to forge ahead. He barely moved at thirty percent his maximum speed.


    "I can ignore the difficulty of tearing through the eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays, but why is Qin Yun''s sword flash cage even stronger? That''s right. He was trapping the three half-step Ancestral Fiends previously with all his strength. He was unable to divert enough strength to trap me." Black Wing instantly came to a realization. Previously, Qin Yun''s 360 Stellar Flying Swords covered an area spanning several kilometers to trap the three half-step Ancestral Fiends, so as to prevent any massacres that would ''feed'' the Fiendish Heavenly Dao.


    Therefore, Black Wing was able to easily charge through the obstructions.


    Now, the 360 Stellar Flying Swords were completely focused on trapping him in the Water Cage. The hindrance was a lot more potent.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing, you won''t escape!" Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with killing intent as he chased from behind.


    This time¡­


    If he had not discovered the infiltration ahead of time, his entire homeworld might have been destroyed. Several of his fellow men had perished despite his discovery, so Qin Yun was filled with killing rage. He wished to slay Black Wing.


    "As long as I stall for time, he''s finished the moment the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions arrive," thought Qin Yun.


    Black Wing was indeed extremely powerful. After he activated his life-preservation item, he was able to withstand the remote Dharma spells through his strength alone. Black Wing was still able to fly at high speeds despite the obstruction of the eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays, Water Cage, and the Misty Rain Sword''s barrage of attacks! He also tore through the clouds as he flew towards the cosmos. However, he was still far from exiting the Small World''s mesosphere.


    "They are about to reach me." Black Wing looked behind and saw the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions rapidly closing the gap.


    Normally, he was heads and shoulders above the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions when it came to speed.


    But now?


    "I can''t escape!" Black Wing came to this realization.


    "It''s all because of that Qin Yun." Black Wing shot a glance at Qin Yun who was pursuing from behind in the form of a sword flash. He felt indignant. "If not for his hindrance, I would still have hope of evading the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions with only the eighteen Inescapable Net Arrays and Dharma spells in my way."


    "Patriarch''s intelligence was terribly wrong! This Qin Yun matches that of a mighty figure¡­ but he was only treated as a half-step Golden Immortal."


    This mistake was terribly wrong.


    Half-step Golden Immortals were quite common. Generals in the Heavenly Courts with a little standing would at least be half-step Golden Immortals.


    In contrast, few could actually match mighty figures!


    Every dominion, including the various Daoist lineages, the Buddhists, the Heavenly Courts, the demons, as well as the fiends, only had a limited number of entities that matched mighty figures! In the Heavenly Courts, Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous, Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and other places, there were many experts, but the overall number remained very tiny. Those that could match mighty figures¡­ joined the Heavenly Courts such as the vanguard general, Mighty Miracle God, or the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions. They were all of higher ranks.


    "Qin Yun''s strength actually matches that of a mighty figure. His flying sword arts are actually that powerful. Even if I fight him one-on-one, I can at best repress him," Black Wing thought vexedly.


    Many ideas appeared in his mind.


    Finally, the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions came close.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing, you won''t escape!"


    "Capture him immediately!"


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions roared angrily.


    "Hahaha, do you have what it takes?" Black Wing turned even more deranged.


    "Take him down!" Followed by Horn''s order, the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions collectively attacked. Their combined strength matched that of a pinnacle Golden Immortal''s.


    Instantly, Black Wing was trapped and he could not proceed another step.


    "Retrieve."


    Qin Yun summoned his flying sword back and dispelled Water Cage. He stood far away as he watched.


    "He won''t be able to escape." Qin Yun knew that.


    At the instant the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions caught up to Black Wing, Black Wing''s fate of being captured was sealed.


    "Ah, ah, ah¡­"


    Black Wing brandished his trident as he desperately struggled, unleashing several desperate moves.


    However, the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions remained extremely calm. They collectively attacked, trapping Black Wing completely under a barrage of blows.


    "Swoosh!"


    Finally, a black chain successfully wound around Black Wing''s arm. It produced an opening in Black Wing''s trident defense. More chains took advantage of the situation as they rapidly wrapped around Black Wing to trap him.


    As the heavy chains wound around him, they released their powers to seal Black Wing of his Dharmic powers.


    His trident also fell to the side.


    ¡­


    In the starry cosmos, Nezha, who had been watching coldly, finally smiled when he saw Black Wing captured. Following that, he looked at Qin Yun.


    The Third Prince knew very well that Qin Yun was critical in their capture of Fiend Supremacy Black Wing!


    Without Qin Yun''s restraints and obstruction, the possibility of capturing Black Wing would have been very low.


    ¡­


    "Hahaha." Horn immediately extended his hand as he grabbed one end of the chain that bound Black Wing.


    The trapped Black Wing swept his gaze viciously at the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions around him. Then, he glared angrily at Qin Yun who flew over from afar. He growled, "Qin Yun, you hid well. Despite being an expert with the strength of a mighty figure, you managed to keep such a low profile. I have nothing to say about succumbing under your hand, but remember¡­ I will definitely exact revenge on this humiliation you dealt me."


    "You still wish to take revenge?"


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing, don''t worry. Once we arrive in the Heavenly Courts, we have a myriad of means to kill you."


    "You can forget about it."


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions said such things one after another.


    Qin Yun flew over and saw the trapped Black Wing and his ferocious gaze. He said coldly, "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing, you deserve this!"


    "I''m a fiend. Why would I be afraid of any repercussions?" Black Wing remained deranged.


    "Shut up." A white-dressed woman among the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions immediately sealed Black Wing''s mouth with her Dharmic powers, preventing him from saying another word.


    "Qin Yun."


    "Junior Brother Qin."


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions all smiled. Many of them were Green Touring Palace disciples as well.


    "It''s all thanks to you," said Horn with a smile. "If not for you, the Great Chang world would have rapidly transformed into a fiendish world. Especially if that sea of blood lineage Fiend King''s avatar had not been killed. If he succeeded, it''s hard to say if we would have been able to tear through that massive array."


    "That Fiend King Xiao naturally had to be killed. Even though I took action the moment I made the discovery, nearly a million people were still killed by him." Qin Yun shook his head. A half-step Ancestral Fiend did not care about the sins accrued and wantonly massacred. It had just been too quick. Even the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures would not have taken long to be completely wiped out. Just the thought left Qin Yun breaking out into a cold sweat.


    Therefore, he did not spare any expenses to kill Fiend King Xiao. Black Wing had also tried to stop him with all he had, but thankfully, the Misty Rain Sword was faster. The Evanescent Illusion he came up with was able to kill Fiend King Xiao''s avatar in just a few strikes.


    Qin Yun still hoped to destroy Fiend King Xiao''s blood sea one day.


    "Junior Brother Qin, we are on a mission, so we won''t say anything more. I''ll treat you to drinks when we return to the Green Touring Palace."


    The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions also bade farewell.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    He watched as the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions rapidly flew towards space with Black Wing in tow.


    At that moment, Immortal Sa Xu and Daoist Zou flew leisurely to Qin Yun''s side as they watched this scene with a smile.

 548 Clashing Across The Void

    Chapter 548: Clashing Across The Void


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Senior Brother Sa, Senior Brother Zou." Qin Yun immediately bowed in gratitude. "Thank you for helping, Senior Brothers."


    "It''s nothing." Daoist Zou was dressed in red robes. "In fact, there were other fellow disciples who wanted to rush here. But with the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions here, the rest did not feel the need to come."


    Qin Yun also understood.


    The combined strength of the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions made having more of his senior brothers and sisters relatively useless.


    "Junior Brother Qin, your breakthroughs in strength sure are fast," said Sa Xu with a smile. "Back in the Lightning Beast Manor, you were only a half-step Golden Immortal. Now, you have also reached the level of a mighty figure."


    Zou smiled as well. "Junior Brother Qin sure is amazing. In the entire Three Realms, be it the Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, or the fiends, all of them will remember your name! An expert that matches that of mighty figures is very rare in the Three Realms. Our Green Touring Palace is considered to have the most disciples among the three Daoist lineages, but even so, we do not even have a hundred experts that match a mighty figure."


    "Not only that," Sa Xu added. "His reveal has allowed the Heavenly Courts to capture Fiend Supremacy Black Wing alive. The fiends must be grinding their teeth in hate with regards to this. The fiendish experts that match the strength of mighty figures are also around a hundred. Now, one of their best has fallen."


    "It was the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions who captured him in the end. All I did was to stall for time," said Qin Yun.


    Despite saying so, Qin Yun knew that the reveal of his strength destined him to be famous throughout the Three Realms!


    Green Touring Palace did not have more than a hundred Golden Immortals. Similarly, the number of experts who matched mighty figures did not exceed a hundred.


    And in the Three Realms¡­


    By combining the Chaos Godfiends, ancient demons, the three Daoist lineages, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, dragons, and the Magus Gate, including the fiends, there were only several hundred experts who matched the strength of mighty figures! Anyone of them held high positions and were absolute backbones of their chosen groups! Qin Yun was now one of them.


    "Look." Sa Xu looked into the distant cosmos. "The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions are about to leave the Great Chang world and enter the cosmos with Fiend Supremacy Black Wing in tow. Once they leave a Small World, it''s possible for Ancestral Fiends to attack. It''s easy for trouble to happen."


    "Will Ancestral Fiends really take action themselves?" Qin Yun looked over as well.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing is a lot stronger than ordinary Fiend Supremacies. The fiends will definitely not abandon him so easily," said Zou.


    The trio stood side by side in midair as they watched from afar.


    They could see that Nezha had flown to the periphery of the Small World with the hundred thousand Heavenly troops. He was personally receiving the prisoner.


    "The Third Prince is indeed impressive." Qin Yun could feel a sense of repression even from a distance.


    Flames billowed around Nezha as the void distorted. The Red Armillary Sash that draped his body fluttered gradually. He held a spear in his left hand and wielded a golden loop in his right. Qin Yun and company knew that the golden loop was Nezha''s strongest Connate Numinous treasure!


    The Connate Merit Numinous treasure, Universe Ring!


    Nezha was the second best combat general of the Heavenly Courts. But when it came to slaying evil, he was number one in the Heavenly Courts.


    Third Prince''s eyes were cold as he monitored his surroundings carefully.


    "Third Prince." At the instant the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions flew out of the Small World, Horn handed the bound Black Wing to Third Prince.


    However, Third Prince did not receive it.


    Instead, he suddenly turned his head to look to the side.


    "What audacity!"


    Third Prince roared angrily as he threw out his Universe Ring suddenly!


    Boom!


    The Universe Ring shot out and wreaked destruction across the cosmic space it passed through, to the point of destroying space itself. The void itself was layered and its internal structure was mystical. The usual shattering of the void usually only affected the most superficial layer, and void seals were actually just on the most shallow layer. Using that layer was enough to stop Skyimmortals and Skyfiends, and even ordinary Golden Immortals and Buddhas.


    But against the most horrifying overlords in the Three Realms, and even entities like the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestor, the shallow void seals were naturally nothing worth mentioning.


    And at that moment, the Third Prince''s strike with his Universe Ring reached deep into the void. There, two streams of light had already arrived!


    "Bam!"


    There was a blood-colored stream of light and a white stream of light.


    The blood-colored stream of light struck the Universe Ring before it revealed its actual form. It was a blood-colored spearhead. Its surface was covered with large numbers of blood patterns. It appeared to have life of its own. When the blood-colored spearhead collided with the Universe Ring, the spearhead bent and even wound around the Universe Ring in an extremely flexible manner.


    The other white stream of light headed straight for Black Wing!


    "You can forget about that." Third Prince wielded his spear.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    At that instant, Third Prince delivered several strikes with his spear. Each strike had a terrifying might, but he stumbled backwards from the white light''s assault.


    The white stream of light also revealed itself. It was a spearhead made of white bone.


    "Shameless," Third Prince bellowed angrily.


    "Hahaha¡­" A sharp voice rang out that resounded through the cosmos. It made the hundred-thousand-strong Heavenly troops hug their heads in pain. The twenty-eight Lunar Mansions also has nasty expressions as they carefully retreated back into the Small World''s confines. "It''s Patriarch Spirit Devouring."


    "It''s Patriarch Spirit Devouring!" The bound Black Wing revealed a look of glee. "I knew it. I''m saved."


    Qin Yun, Sa Xu, and Zou were in midair. They were not affected due to the Small World''s insulation. However, they felt uncomfortable from hearing the laughter. It left them feeling unsettled and short-tempered.


    "Patriarch Spirit Devouring." Zou''s expression was nasty.


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun''s and Sa Xu''s expressions changed as well.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring was the patriarch who established the spirit-devouring lineage.


    The most sinister lineages of the fiends were the spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage. And since Patriarch Spirit Devouring was the one who established the lineage, one could only imagine how grave his sins were. It could be said that¡­ across the Three Realms, the ones with the gravest of sins were the patriarchs of the two lineages. In terms of strength, Patriarch Spirit Devouring was a perfected Ancestral Fiend. No one could do a thing to him if the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, or Goddess N¨¹wa did not take action.


    He was here personally!


    It was no wonder he could suppress the second strongest combat general of the Heavenly Courts, Nezha!


    "It would be too late even if Daoist mighty figures wished to help," Zou said anxiously when he saw this play out.


    "A powerful mighty figure has taken action." Ancestral Master Zhang was flying towards Qin Yun while he looked at the scene in the starry cosmos.


    ¡­


    And in the starry cosmos.


    "Hmph." Although Nezha''s eyes were filled with rage, he did not panic at all.


    At that instant, the Third Prince was sent retreating while the sharp laughter resounded everywhere. Since the red-colored spearhead was binding the Universe Ring, the white-boned spearhead made a clear path for Black Wing.


    "Hua!"


    A whisk appeared from the void. Thousands of threads from the whisk enveloped the white-boned spearhead and intercepted it. The spearhead was extremely sharp as it constantly tore through the whisk''s threads, but the threads were innumerable. The spearhead was finally stopped.


    "Primordial Unity!" The sharp voice resounded through the void with evident rage.


    "Daoist Wen. What''s the meaning of you bullying juniors?" A genial voice sounded.


    "You were already hiding here?" the sharp voice continued.


    If Primordial Unity had not gotten there ahead of time, there would be no way he could intercept in time.


    "I long guessed that you fiends are shameless, so I waited here a long time ago," the genial voice said.


    "Nice, very nice!"


    The sharp voice was indignant as it resounded everywhere. The white-boned spearhead and the blood-colored spearhead rapidly departed.


    Nezha immediately bowed, "Thank you, Master."


    "Good."


    The whisk also vanished from the void.


    It was only then that Nezha went forward. He held the bound Black Wing and gave him a disdainful glance.


    "No, no¡ª" It was only then did Black Wing''s eyes show a look of despair.


    "We shall return to the Heavenly Courts." Nezha held Black Wing as he gave the instruction. He then connected the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions and the hundred-thousand-strong Heavenly troops to the Heavenly Courts through the Heavenly Courts'' powers.


    The void fluctuated as it enveloped the Heavenly troops.


    Whoosh!


    The obstreperous Heavenly troops vanished as they teleported to the Heavenly Courts.


    Qin Yun and company stood there, astounded.

 549 Execution

    Chapter 549: Execution


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Even those two took action," exclaimed Zou.


    The scenes from before were still on Qin Yun''s mind. The spearhead and the whisk which appeared from deep within the void¡­ sent quakes through his heart! It could be said that he understood a little of Nezha''s moves, but when the two powerhouses took action, Qin Yun could hardly understand what had happened. All he felt was horror. If the blows swept past him, he might have been pulverized there and then.


    "Those two are not to be trifled with. Third Prince''s master is Perfected Primordial Unity 1. He is the avatar cultivated by the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation of the Eastern Paradise," exclaimed Sa Xu. "The Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation is an ancient existence that had extremely powerful strength even before the Chaos developed into anything."


    "Perfected Primordial Unity is the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation''s secret. He had only exposed himself during the Daoist-Fiend war," said Zou with a nod.


    Qin Yun smiled. "I heard that many unknown ancient existences took action during the Daoist-Fiend war."


    "These ancient existences focused solely on cultivation and did not participate in any external strifes. However, the Daoist-Fiend war had embroiled all of the Three Realms. Even they could not avoid it, which resulted in these ancient existences taking action. For instance, Ancestral Master Bodhi from Mt. Lingtai was unknown to many Golden Immortal and Buddha mighty figures. But during the Daoist-Fiend war, a single appearance from Ancestral Master Bodhi caused quakes throughout the Three Realms! It was only then that people knew that the monkey from Flowers and Fruit Mountain 2was his disciple," said Zou with a shake of his head.


    "Even now, there are still a pathetic number of people who have attained the perfected Golden Immortal realm in the Three Realms," said Sa Xu. "From the Jade Void Palace, ignoring the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity, there''s only Guangchengzi 3. As for our Green Touring Palace, the only one who reached the perfected Golden Immortal realm is Eldest Senior Sister."


    "The Eight Scenic Palace lineage doesn''t even have a single perfected Golden Immortal," quipped Zou with a laugh.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    There was indeed very few.


    Green Touring Palace''s original Eldest Senior Brother, Daoist Myriad Treasures, had become a Buddhist. And now, the Green Touring Palace''s Eldest Senior Sister was Unborn Venerable Mother.


    The Eldest Senior Sister was greatly respected by her Green Touring Palace junior brothers and sisters.


    Her avatars preached the Dao in the Three Realms and she was famous.


    She was addressed in many ways such as Unborn Venerable Mother 4, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, Infinite Mother¡­ They were all her.


    As a perfected Golden Immortal, she was give the title of sect master, as well as lord of a Great World. Similarly, the Buddhists'' Amita was the lord of the Western Paradise. The Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation was lord of the Eastern Paradise.


    Even the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, Goddess N¨¹wa, and the Fiend Ancestors paid deep respect to perfected Golden Immortals. As their true bodies could not enter Great Worlds, there was no way they could threaten these perfected Golden Immortals. Dealing with them required negotiation! As such, it was common for them to interact as equals.


    "In order to make a breakthrough in cultivation, the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity was willing to let an avatar come under the Jade Void Palace. It''s quite impressive," said Zou with a sigh. "As for Patriarch Spirit Devouring, it is rumored that he was a Chaos Godfiend. He was a mosquito before the Chaos developed into anything. He was born a mighty figure. During the war of the three Daoist lineages, he already had peak Ancestral Fiend strength. However, he later devoured several Connate Numinous treasures, to the point of even devouring a portion of the cornerstone treasure of the Buddhists. Both the Daoists and Buddhists wish him dead. He had nowhere he could hide¡­ but for some reason, he was nowhere to be found. Later, people learned that he had sought refuge under the Fiend Ancestor''s wing. He was cultivating in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss¡­ and finally completed and perfected his own Great Dao. He began the spirit-devouring lineage, which gave birth to a large horde of fiends that wreaked havoc in the Three Realms."


    "It was truly rare to be able to see the both of them clash today," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    As the three of them were discussing, Ancestral Master Zhang arrived.


    "Senior Brother Zou, Senior Brother Sa." Ancestral Master Zhang bowed.


    ¡­


    It wasn''t long before Sa Xu and Zou left.


    Grand Dominance City, Qin Manor.


    The sky was already dark. Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang sat under a pavilion.


    "Senior Brother Zhang." Qin Yun frowned. "The fiends already have the fiendish garrison, the Tenebrous Cloud Fiend world, in the Effulgent dominion. Yet, they attempted to construct a garrison here in our Great Chang world. It''s already odd to build two garrisons, but why would they happen to choose our homeworld? It makes the situation even odder!"


    "There must be some other conspiracy." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "In fact, back when Empyrean Lord Kuifu attempted to occupy our Great Chang world, I was already puzzled. However, we have long investigated the Great Chang world. Senior cave abodes? Treasure? With our strength, we would have long discovered any of those in the Great Chang world."


    "Yes. I have also cast the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm and checked the entire Great Chang world. Even a grain of sand or drop of water cannot escape my probes." Qin Yun shook his head. "Our Great Chang world''s history consists only of seniors who were ordinary Skyimmortals and Skygods. There have never been any impressive existences. Whatever they left behind is not worth the fiends paying such a tremendous price."


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded slightly.


    The two of them fell silent.


    This was their homeworld¡­


    They naturally would protect it with all they had. They could now feel that the fiends were coveting the Great Chang world. However, why? They could not find the real reason.


    "Qin Yun, I will be seeking some treasures in the coming days to perfect my Godfiend avatars," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Following that, I will use the twelve Godfiend avatars to set up an array formation for my attempt to break through to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm."


    "You have created the final three firmament Dharmic formulations for your Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma?" Qin Yun revealed a look of joy. If Ancestral Master Zhang broke through, his strength would be equivalent to Senior Brother Sa Xu''s. It would also aid him greatly in his fight against the fiends.


    "I''m seventy or eighty percent confident," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "I actually planned on being a hundred percent confident before I attempted the breakthrough, but I can''t waste time! The fiends might have failed this time, but I''m afraid it won''t be long before they come again."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    To pay such a huge price¡­ to the point of losing Fiend Supremacy Black Wing, the fiends would definitely not rest.


    "Yes, we have to prepare well." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Alright. I''ll make a move first." Ancestral Master Zhang immediately stood up and bade farewell.


    Qin Yun watched Ancestral Master Zhang leave as he stood there silently for a moment.


    Sou!


    He arrived high in the sky with a single step.


    Qin Yun stood high in the sky as he swept his surroundings from afar. Even though it was night, he could still see all the village buildings, cities, and countless people leading their ordinary lives.


    "Just short," said Qin Yun silently. "We were just short of having our homeworld annihilated."


    Just the thought of it left a lingering fear in him.


    Against powerful immortals and fiends, especially experts who were nearing that of mighty figures, a world''s sentient beings were truly frail. They could be destroyed with a mere flip of the hand! Even Qin Yun himself could destroy all of the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefecture just by releasing his divine power.


    This was also why many immortals and fiends treated mortals as ants. The difference was just too great.


    ******


    Heavenly Courts.


    Black Wing was quickly escorted to Fiend Slaying Platform by a platoon of Heavenly troops.


    "Fiend Supremacy Black Wing has been brought here for sentencing," said the general in charge of the escort.


    "Brother Gongsun, leave him to me." There were soldiers at Fiend Slaying Platform as well. A silver-armored Heavenly General smiled as he walked over.


    "Go."


    General Gongsun pushed the bound Black Wing, who stumbled towards the silver-armored Heavenly General before being grabbed by him.


    "Fiend Slaying Platform?" Black Wing could not help but tremble when he looked at the Fiend Slaying Platform which effused a bloodthirsty and foul aura.


    The Heavenly Courts had places like the Immortal Slaying Platform, Demon Slaying Platform, and Dragon Slaying Platform, etc.


    However, the outcome wasn''t usually that ruthless.


    For instance, execution at the Immortal Slaying Platform would leave one''s soul intact. Some would suffer misery in three incarnations. Others would be reincarnated into animals, while others would suffer separations from their love for a thousand incarnations.


    But even so, once the punishment was completed, they would be received and awakened, allowing them to rejoin the ranks as an immortal.


    What made the Fiend Slaying Platform most ruthless was that the soul would be completely destroyed, leaving nothing but one''s True Spirit for reincarnation. A True Spirit reincarnation made it impossible to be received. To awaken one''s memories again? The possibility was even lower than having something good fall into one''s lap.


    Previously, Black Wing had the hopes of being rescued, so he chose not to self-destruct. This was because once he self-destructed, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor would disregard their status to forcefully destroy his soul wisp as it was undergoing reincarnation! After all, there were only about a hundred fiends who matched that of mighty figures. By the same logic, if it was a dying Daoist or Buddhist expert who matched a mighty figure in strength, the Fiend Ancestor would also destroy them while disregarding his status. In the end, it would still leave a wisp of True Spirit for reincarnation.


    Therefore¡­


    Before the fiends rose in prominence, many mighty figures would take the initiative to reincarnate. They would hone themselves by experiencing their mortalities so as to temper their Dao hearts.


    But now, as long as one reached the strength of a mighty figure, they would not dare reincarnate. This was because it would prompt the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, or Fiend Ancestor into action.


    Both sides clearly left no room for negotiation.


    "Go over!" sounded an angry bellow.


    Black Wing was disorientated¡­


    Black Wing was pressed onto the Fiend Slaying Platform as he faintly felt the tumultuous might from the Fiend Slaying Platform around him.


    "Execute him!" The immortal official in charge of the execution shouted the order.


    "Boom!"


    The huge cleaver fell down.


    Containing the Fiend Slaying Platform''s horrific might, the cleaver cleaved down, causing blood to splatter. Black Wing''s head rolled to the side, but his soul had been completely pulverized.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    Bojia Palace.


    The four-faced and eight-armed Patriarch Bojia was sitting high on his throne. He looked in the direction of the Heavenly Courts across the obstruction of endless space. The other spots in the Heavenly Courts prevented spying, but the Fiend Slaying Platform did not cloak itself from spying!


    Patriarch Bojia watched this scene in dead silence.

 550 Not Meeting Anyone Final Chapter of Volume

    "Bojia."


    A sound boomed.


    Patriarch Bojia looked ahead as an incorporeal figure gradually materialized in the middle of the hall. He was lanky in build. His blood-colored brows were long, while the eyes under his brows were stunningly sharp. A red robe was draped over him. He looked at Bojia with a smile. Despite his smile, his eyes still left one shuddering.


    "I failed," said the lanky figure with a smile. "Primordial Unity had laid in ambush without any regard for his status. I could not rescue that descendant of your bloodline."


    "Brother Spirit Devouring, I''m already very thankful for your help," said Bojia immediately. He acted with a lowered stature.


    Back when Daoist Wen was pursued by the Buddhists, he was reduced to quite a wretched state. He eventually sought refuge under the Fiend Ancestor in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Bojia found it disdainful, since he had been a follower of the Fiend Ancestor shortly after Pangu split the world apart. He was also the patriarch of one of the nine largest clans in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. He naturally showed contempt towards Daoist Wen who had no foundations.


    However, after Daoist Wen digested the numerous Connate Numinous treasures he received and converted to the fiendish way, he managed to make a direct breakthrough.


    Daoist Wen first cultivated in the Dao, before he cultivated in Buddhist way, and finally in the fiendish way¡­ With his talent as a Chaos Godfiend, he eventually perfected his own Great Dao and forged the Spirit Devouring Fiendish Dao! He was labeled as a fiend among fiends in the Three Realms!


    He enjoyed a high standing and was truly one of the most powerful beings in the Three Realms.


    After Daoist Wen underwent his transformation and became a truly powerful being, even Bojia took the initiative to befriend him! If he hadn''t, how could he have gotten Patriarch Spirit Devouring to help? They just never expected that the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity would lurk in ambush while disregarding his status. Even Patriarch Spirit Devouring himself was unable to save Black Wing.


    "Bojia." Daoist Wen''s avatar stood there with a smile. "The price you paid this time is nothing trivial. You even lost that little guy, Black Wing. Was it all really just to occupy the Great Chang world?"


    Patriarch Bojia was alarmed.


    "If I''m not wrong, you should have some ulterior motives." Daoist Wen looked at Bojia with a smile. "Might you tell me?"


    "I won''t lie to you, Brother Spirit Devouring," said Bojia with a smile. "The reason why I sent Black Wing and company on this mission to occupy the Great Chang world was actually to deal with that Qin Yun."


    "Deal with Qin Yun?" Daoist Wen''s brows pricked up.


    Bojia nodded. "Yes. I''ve been investigating certain news leads. This Qin Yun has had tremendous opportunities. He has a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure."


    "A top-grade Connate Numinous treasure?" Daoist Wen was astonished.


    "It''s that flying sword of his," said Bojia. "He is an Essence Soul sword immortal which means his Dharmic powers are extremely weak. Yet, he is able to use that flying sword at the level of a mighty figure. Even with a Golden Immortal level sword move, that flying sword is definitely not your ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. It''s very likely to be a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure. In all my life, from before the Chaos developed until today, I, Bojia, have never even had a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure. I naturally needed to scheme for it. Unfortunately, Black Wing and company were discovered ahead of time by Qin Yun while they were setting up the array formation. It was all for naught."


    Connate Numinous treasures had different grades.


    Even the weakest Connate Numinous treasure was extremely precious! Ancestral Master Zhang, Sa Xu, Zou, and Black Wing did not even have an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure, much less a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure. Even Patriarch Bojia, the patriarch of one of the nine major clans of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, did not have one.


    "He is an Essence Soul sword immortal, yet he has a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure?" Daoist Wen frowned. "Perhaps his Intrinsic Flying Sword is a Connate Numinous treasure."


    "When sword immortals nurture their Intrinsic Flying Swords, they normally can nurture a superior-grade Numinous treasure flying sword if their Sword Dao reaches the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm," said Bojia. "Above a superior-grade Numinous treasure is a supreme-grade Numinous treasure. And further up is the Connate Numinous treasure! To break through the shackles of the grades, one needs large amounts of Connate Wonders."


    "I''ve investigated his activity before," said Bojia. "He had used the available spots for entering the Lightning Beast Manor to exchange for some Connate Wonders, but the amount he received was pitifully tiny. None of it was worth mentioning, which also means it''s impossible to nurture an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure. Of course, I do not dare say for sure, but I feel that his flying sword is likely a top-grade Connate Wonder Numinous treasure!"


    Daoist Wen nodded before he departed by dissipating his figure.


    Bojia heaved a sigh of relief.


    "I finally managed to fool him," thought Bojia. "But I wasn''t wrong. That flying sword is indeed extraordinary."


    "The Stellar Stone, a thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone. That is the true treasure of the Great Chang world." Bojia''s eyes shimmered. "The only ones who know about this secret are me and that punk, Kuifu. I''m keeping that punk imprisoned, and no one can come into contact with him."


    "One failure doesn''t matter. I have plenty of patience." Bojia began making his next plans.


    ******


    Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang were setting up an array formation on a sea island in the East Sea. The sea breeze blew over with the smell of the sea.


    "We prepared eight protective arrays this time. Junior Brother Qin, do you feel the pinch?" asked Ancestral Master Zhang jokingly. "All of these added up can could get us a hundred supreme-grade Numinous treasures. If our luck were good, it would even be possible to exchange for a Connate Numinous treasure."


    "Why would I feel the pinch?" Qin Yun was also setting up the array. "These were all left behind by those half-step Ancestral Fiends. Some of them come from the proceeds of selling the array formations the fiends had set up. Using the treasures of the fiends to exchange for an array formation to protect our Great Chang world against fiends is simply perfect. Besides, to exchange these for a Connate Numinous treasure? Who would really want to make the exchange?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang nodded as he continued the setup.


    The five half-step Ancestral Fiends had left their treasures in the Great Chang world. They were all swept up by Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm, and now they had been exchanged for array formations.


    "Oh. These eight array formations are all highly impressive. They can fuse together, making our world impregnable," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Unfortunately, they can only protect certain regions."


    "It''s already pretty good that they can protect the continent where the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures are and five hundred kilometers of the surrounding sea," said Ancestral Master Zhang. "Senior Brother Yellow-robed''s Skywolf world has eight continents, and all Senior Brother Yellow-robed did was guard one continent. The bigger the area defended, the higher the requirement of the array formations. Qin Yun, what you have done is already sufficient."


    Qin Yun nodded as they continued setting up the array formation.


    After spending half a month, they finished setting up the eight array formations. Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang heaved a collective sigh of relief and felt a lot more relaxed.


    "It''s finally done." Qin Yun''s face was also filled with glee.


    "There are eight massive arrays. Even if another ten experts like Fiend Supremacy Black Wing come, they can forget about cracking this." Ancestral Master Zhang was filled with confidence now.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Regardless of what the fiends were up to, the both of them were bent on protecting the Great Chang world.


    "Qin Yun, I''ll be entering seclusion now. I hope that I''ll succeed in my breakthrough," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "If you are able to become a ninth firmament Skyimmortal, with the might of the Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma, you should be able to match a mighty figure. That way, there will be nothing to fear with our combined might," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "I''ll count on your blessings." With that said, Ancestral Master Zhang departed amid laughter.


    Qin Yun also returned to Grand Dominance City.


    ¡­


    Outside Grand Dominance City.


    After the last smite of lightning from the Heavenly Tribulation, Ninth Hong stood in midair as the lightning fused with him. It caused his Essence Soul to begin transforming as his spirit and body gradually fused as one, turning him into a Skyimmortal.


    His Skyimmortal aura released.


    "Ninth Hong, congratulations on successfully surviving the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal. Now, you share the same age as the heavens and there will be more catastrophes in your long life." Qin Yun went forward to congratulate him. Yi Xiao also went forward with a smile. "Ninth Hong, congratulations. You really left Eighth Zhu in the dust and became a Skyimmortal first."


    Ninth Hong was beaming at the moment as he flew over. He immediately bowed deeply. "It''s all thanks to Brother Qin Yun and you that I, Ninth Hong, can have such an achievement today."


    "We did not do much. It''s only three books," said Yi Xiao. Qin Manor currently had a huge stockpile of treasures, manuals, and pills. Although the treasures were things they did not really use, the ones placed in their family''s vault could match the wealth of an ordinary half-step Golden Immortal. Qin Yun and Ninth Hong had an extraordinary relationship, so he agreed to allow Ninth Hong to choose any three books.


    "The Dao is not something easily instructed. It''s already a huge opportunity for me to obtain three pinnacle Skyimmortal realm manuals," said Ninth Hong. "My achievement today is all thanks to these three manuals."


    Qin Yun also felt happy for Ninth Hong.


    But then, he thought about himself¡­


    "I wonder when I can figure out a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation," thought Qin Yun.


    Although he was presently pondering over his Sword Dao constantly and occasionally ruminated over a sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation and had a version in mind, it was just too crude. There was a high chance of failure if he attempted to make a breakthrough.


    Any of the breakthroughs involved in creating a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation and obtaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit would increase his strength drastically, but they were all extremely difficult things to him.


    ******


    In the void of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, there was a massive array formation.


    Bojia came over while stepping across the void.


    "Halt." A figure materialized. It was a blood-armored Fiend Soldier.


    "I wish to meet your master," said Bojia with a smile. "Please inform him."


    "Master has said that he is in seclusion. He will not meet anyone," said the Fiend Soldier.


    "Even me?" Bojia frowned slightly. He was a patriarch of one of the nine major clans in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. He was definitely one of the highest-ranked existences in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. He had several Ancestral Fiends under him too.


    However, the Fiend Soldier bowed and said, "Master said he is not meeting anyone! When Master exits seclusion, I will pass the message for you, Patriarch Bojia."


    Bojia was a little vexed, but he had no other choice.


    "Remember to pass the message." With that said, Bojia returned to Bojia Palace.


    (End of Volume)

 551 Star Destroyer

    Chapter 551: Star Destroyer


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance City.


    Snow drifted across the sky as Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the mirror lake''s bank. There was some frost on his brows, but he did not wipe it off. Instead, he was focused on taking in the natural changes of the world.


    The mirror lake ahead of him had frozen into a thin layer of ice.


    "Swoosh!"


    A wisp of misty rain streaked across the sky, easily slicing apart a lone rift in the void. The void seemed to crack open as the snowflakes drifting around the tear came to an instant halt. Only when the void gradually restored itself did the snowflakes continue their dance.


    "It''s been three years."


    "Three years have passed since the battle with Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. The fiends have not come again all this while. Did Senior Brother Zhang and I guess wrong?" Qin Yun shook his head gently. "They must have discovered the eight massive arrays set up by Senior Brother Zhang and I! They must be wracking their brains over how to crack the array. They are likely still preparing. Three years is a very short time in the view of an Ancestral Fiend."


    "I have created a total of eight moves at the Golden Immortal level to date. When will I be able to attain a Great Dao?" Qin Yun felt a little anxious.


    He always felt he was close, but every time, all he managed was to create a sword move at the Golden Immortal level.


    A real Great Dao was like the moon''s reflection in water. It could be seen, but not touched!


    "I have to accumulate more. Persistent effort can solve any problem. With sufficient accumulation, I will ultimately be able to make a breakthrough." Qin Yun quickly calmed his mind.


    "Brother Yun! Brother Yun!" shouted Yi Xiao from a distant pavilion while holding onto a wooden tray.


    Qin Yun turned his head to look over as he got up with a smile. He beckoned, causing the Misty Rain Sword to rapidly fly back into his dantian for further nurturing.


    He walked towards the pavilion over the piled up snow, and as he walked the snowflakes on his body dissipated, turning him clean once again.


    "Xiaoxiao, what is it? Why does it smell so good?" Qin Yun came over.


    "Here, have a taste of it."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued to have quiet and leisurely days, while Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang remained in seclusion.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged, wearing his tall headdress and Daoist robes in his chamber while twelve Lightning Godfiend avatars sat around him in the same manner.


    "My twelve Lightning Godfiend avatars have been cultivated to perfection. I can make a breakthrough at any time. However, the fiends have not come to the Great Chang world since that time¡­ I''m also in no rush to make a breakthrough," thought Ancestral Master Zhang. It would be too late to try making the breakthrough when they came!


    "The eight massive arrays are extraordinarily formidable. They can last very long even if the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions were attacking them."


    "I have created the Divine Firmament Dharmic formulation and have an eighty percent chance of breaking through to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm¡­ However, as long as the fiends do not come, I can slowly perfect it."


    "The more perfect it is, the stronger my foundation will be."


    Ancestral Master Zhang even dared to hope that the fiends would come as late as possible, giving him time to further ponder over the Dharmic formulation he created.


    ******


    In a particular spot deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    A black oval cloud that spanned more than five thousand kilometers hovered in the void.


    "Whoosh."


    In the deep depths of the black cloud, a red light suddenly glowed. It increased in intensity as the black cloud''s aura turned terrifying.


    Suddenly, a faint but gigantic face appeared deep within the black clouds.


    "Master." A blood-armored Fiend Soldier stood before the cloud face in an extremely reverent manner.


    "Did anyone look for me when I was in seclusion?" the gigantic face asked.


    "Master, over the past ten years of your seclusion, Fiend Supremacy Cavedust, Ancestral Fiend Fuyu and Patriarch Bojia came to see you," said the Fiend Soldier respectfully.


    "Patriarch Bojia?" The gigantic face deep in the black clouds revealed a look of surprise.


    Fiend Supremacy Cavedust was his subordinate.


    Ancestral Fiend Fuyu¡­ was a friend he had befriended before the Chaos developed into anything.


    "Patriarch Bojia came looking for me? Why would he?" The gigantic face revealed a baffled look. Patriarch Bojia had a high standing in the Three Realms, even a little higher than his own.


    The Fiend Soldier added politely, "Master, while you were in seclusion, I learned of a certain event. The Bojia clan''s Fiend Supremacy Black Wing led five half-step Ancestral Fiends to a Small World in the Effulgent dominion named the Great Chang world. They attempted to occupy it and transform it into a fiendish world. However, they were ultimately attacked by the Heavenly troops. As a result, Fiend Supremacy Black Wing was captured to the Heavenly Courts and was executed on Fiend Slaying Platform!"


    "Black Wing is good at escaping, but he failed to escape?" asked the face.


    "Yes, he failed to escape." The Fiend Soldier shook his head.


    "That''s interesting." A smiled suffused the face.


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    Bojia Palace.


    The massive black cloud arrived above Bojia Palace. Following that, it rapidly contracted and plummeted. By the time it flew into the hall, it had condensed into a black-robed man. However, the body he condensed resembled black jade.


    "Haha, Old Brother Star Destroyer," greeted Patriarch Bojia warmly from his throne.


    "Brother Bojia, you haven''t sought me out in a long time. Why did you come looking for me while I was in seclusion?" The black-robed man smiled. "Has it got to do with the Great Chang world?"


    "You know about what happened in the Great Chang world?" pressed Patriarch Bojia.


    "I investigated a little before coming. Only then did I discover¡­ that the punk Black Wing was killed. What a pity. A pity." The black-robed man shook his head gently.


    Patriarch Bojia said, "I won''t lie to you. I went looking for you in the hopes that you would help me occupy the Great Chang world."


    The black-robed man asked, "Your sending of Black Wing and company on a mission has already puzzled a few old fogies. They''re probably already underway on a careful investigation of the Great Chang world. If I were to take action, it will only increase the suspicion the Three Realms has towards the Great Chang world. What secret does the Great Chang world hold? Why are you targeting it?"


    "Forget it. You don''t have to answer. I won''t be able to tell your sincerity if you randomly give me a reason." The black-robed man shook his head.


    "Are you willing to help me?" pressed Patriarch Bojia.


    "I only have one condition." The black-robed man stared at Patriarch Bojia. "The Connate Numinous treasure, Grand Yin Disk."


    Patriarch Bojia''s pupils constricted as his posterior face revealed a furious look.


    "And you have to give it to me before I head to the Great Chang world," said the black-robed man. "I''ll help you if you give me, or else¡­"


    "It''s a Connate Numinous treasure. Furthermore, it''s a Connate Numinous treasure that controls a domain." Bojia was somewhat infuriated. The preciousness of Connate Numinous treasures was disparate. A domain-type Connate Numinous treasure like the Great Yin Disk was naturally extremely precious. It was one of the most precious treasures Bojia had.


    The black-robed man smiled. "Before I came, I learned that the Great Chang world has set up eight massive arrays! Perhaps no one but me can crack that formation open! If you agree to my requests, I''ll rush over. If you don''t¡­ think of a solution yourself."


    Bojia was seething inside.


    "We got to know each other in the Chaos. How many years has it been between us? To you, it''s an easy mission, but you want my Grand Yin Disk?" Bojia tried persuading.


    "Brother Bojia, it appears you can''t part with it." The black-robed man smiled as he turned to leave.


    Bojia looked at the black-robed man who was walking out before he clenched his teeth and said, "Hold on."


    The black-robed man immediately stopped and turned his head. His black jade-like face revealed a smile as he looked at Bojia.


    "Our agreement has to be written on a Mental Demon Pact," said Bojia through clenched teeth as he felt the pinch.


    "Of course it has to be written on the Mental Demon Pact." The black-robed man nodded.


    "Before you set off, I can give you the Great Yin Disk, but it''s only a loan! If you fail, the Great Yin Disk naturally has to be returned to me. If you succeed¡­ the Great Yin Disk will forever be yours."


    "That is only natural." The black-robed man nodded. "Don''t worry. Success is guaranteed if I take action. If I fail¡­ no one in the Three Realms can succeed. No one can stop me in a Small World! Not even the combined efforts of the eighteen Arhats or twenty-eight Lunar Mansions!"


    He was Supremacy Star Destroyer!


    He was the strongest expert in the Three Realms beneath that of mighty figures.


    Before Pangu split apart the Heaven and Earth, he was a black cloud in the Chaos. He was born with the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend. Later, solar systems appeared after Pangu split apart the Heaven and Earth. He loved devouring solar systems! The black cloud would envelop a planet and slowly devour it. As he was afraid of sin, he could only devour planets without humans. That way, his level of sin would be relatively smaller.


    But even so, he was still pursued by the experts from the Three Realms for devouring planets.


    He quickly vanished¡­


    He had also fled into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss!


    He had lurked there for a very long time.


    Later, Daoist Wen also sought refuge in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and became a perfected Ancestral Fiend. He created the spirit-devouring lineage. Supremacy Star Destroyer immediately joined the spirit-devouring lineage and cultivated in the spirit-devouring lineage''s Dharmic formulations.


    The spirit-devouring lineage and his actual body, Black Cloud, were a perfect match for his devouring talents.


    His strength increased in a very obvious way.


    He even figured out a Great Dao, allowing him to break through to become an Ancestral Fiend! However, he chose not to because by staying at the ninth firmament Skyfiend realm, he could freely cast his Spirit Devouring Art. The Heavenly Courts'' twenty-eight Lunar Mansions or the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats had once pursued him, but in a Small World, none of them could do a thing to him from the beginning. Now, he even held the advantage in a frontal assault!


    Supremacy Star Destroyer had fused his Chaos Godfiend talent with the spirit-devouring lineage Dharmic formulations. With his insights into a Great Dao¡­ his strength matched that of a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend!


    He was publicly recognized as the strongest in the Three Realms as long as mighty figures were not involved!


    By not becoming an Ancestral Fiend¡­ he could freely devour Small Worlds, turning his foundations even more robust. No one in the Three Realms could do a thing about him. The only limitation he had when devouring worlds was whether he could digest them! Clearly, he needed some time to after devouring too many worlds'' sentient beings. Even the Fiend Ancestor recruited him as a disciple as he was highly favored.


    "Of course I trust you," said Bojia with a laugh. With that said, he flipped his hand and took out a Mental Demon Pact.


    The Mental Demon Pact was a contract written on skin. It was personally refined by the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s extremely mysterious Patriarch Mental Demon.


    "Swoosh!"


    "Swoosh!"


    Bojia injected wisps of Dharmic powers into the Mental Demon Pact. The black-robed man took a glance at the pact and also injected a wisp of his Dharmic powers.


    "Good." Bojia revealed a look of glee as he laughed out loud. With a flip of his hand, a silver disk appeared in his hand. Unwillingly, he threw it over.


    The black-robed man smiled and caught it. "Brother Bojia, don''t worry. I will definitely do the job well after taking your treasure."


    The black-robed man could barely hide his excitement as he looked at the Great Yin Disk.


    "Can you now tell me the secret of the Great Chang world, Brother Bojia?" pressed the black-robed man.


    "You will have to help me if I tell you."


    "Alright. If it''s something very troublesome, I won''t help."


    Bojia nodded. "The Great Chang world''s secret is that¡­ deep in the Great Chang world, there''s a Connate Wonder, the Stellar Stone, a thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone!"


    "A thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone?" The black-robed man was somewhat alarmed. "This¡­"


    Bojia smiled. "It''s already written in the Mental Demon Pact. Anything gained from the Great Chang world will be mine. You can forget about the Stellar Stone. My request for you is to help me retrieve the Stellar Stone after you occupy the Great Chang world."


    "Your luck is really good. A thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone?" The black-robed man could not help but shake his head with a sigh. "You have discovered such a treasure, but all I get is a Great Yin Disk. I have really asked for too little. However, since it''s already written in the Mental Demon Pact, I will naturally do my best."


    "When will you take action?" pressed Patriarch Bojia.


    "With a little preparation, I shall be ready in three days," said the black-robed man.


    Patriarch Bojia nodded slightly as his eyes were filled with anticipation.


    Soon, the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone would be in his hands. If Qin Yun was killed, the flying sword would also be his! Perhaps, it was a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure!

 552 Ferocious Migh

    Chapter 552: Ferocious Might


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In the void inside the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    Red light coruscated amid a massive black cloud. In the middle of the red light was a silver disk.


    "Hahaha, the Great Yin Disk. I''ve finally obtained it." A rapturous laughter sounded from the black clouds. "The Great Yin Disk is perfect for my Chaos Godfiend body. With it aiding me, my strength can, at least, increase by fifty percent!"


    "I''ll first refine it for myself to get used to it. I''ll have to use it in three days."


    He already had a Connate Numinous treasure.


    However, he had long coveted the Great Yin Disk as it suited him best. As a domain-type Connate Numinous treasure, it was very useful in both frontal assaults and escaping. Even Patriarch Bojia of the nine major clans of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss valued it deeply. He had only managed to get the Great Yin Disk from Bojia thanks to the opportunity placed before him.


    In a blink of an eye, three days had passed.


    The black cloud rapidly materialized to form a black-robed man.


    "A mere Great Chang world?" The black-robed looked across distant space and at the Effulgent dominion''s Great Chang world.


    Although he had chosen not to make a breakthrough, he had long gained insights into a Great Dao! He naturally could spy on other dominions from afar.


    ¡­


    In the space beyond the Great Chang world in the Effulgent dominion.


    "Boom¡ª"


    A terrifying blast erupted as the starry space was blasted apart to make room for a passageway that was sealed by the void. The black-robed man walked out from within it.


    "Brother Star Destruction, I''m leaving it to you." Bojia''s voice sounded in his ear.


    "Rest assured. Leave it to me. You just need to wait to receive the Stellar Stone." The black-robed man was extremely confident as he took a step and crossed through the Small World''s boundary.


    "The void is sealed everywhere? Oh, I have been discovered?" The black-robed man''s brows pricked up. "What''s the point in spending so much effort to set up an array?"


    Beneath him.


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang had set up the eight massive arrays together, so they were instantly notified. They saw layers of light appear above the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures. The barriers were of different colors¡ªgold, green, purple, earthly yellow¡­ The eight massive arrays fused perfectly and completely protected the continent where the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures were situated and five hundred kilometers of the sea around it.


    The Four Seas'' dragons had long moved into the confines of the array formation after being informed by Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang.


    At that moment, countless humans and demons looked up. Even the Four Seas'' dragons were looking up into the sky.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun, who was leisurely engaging in calligraphy with Yi Xiao, could not help but look up and have a change of expression.


    He instantly saw a black-robed man standing more than ten thousand kilometers in the sky. As he looked down, he suddenly waved his hand, "Begone."


    A palm strike cleaved down.


    A red beam flew out and split the void in half wherever it passed. After it flew more than five thousand kilometers, it struck the array formation that protected the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures. It resulted in a terrifying resonance, one that left Qin Yun''s pupils constricted.


    "He''s powerful!" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    A casual strike from him had strength that far exceeded Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. It was a strength on a completely different level.


    "It''s him. Supremacy Star Destruction?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. "The fiends actually sent him?"


    He had spared no expense to prepare the eight massive arrays. Even if ten Black Wings came, there was no way to crack them open! However, Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang did not feel completely at ease, because they knew that the fiends had a terrifying existence¡ªSupremacy Star Destruction!


    He was the strongest expert in the Three Realms beneath that of mighty figures.


    He was a monster.


    As a Chaos Godfiend, he was born to devour stars. He was talented from birth, and together with the spirit-devouring lineage''s Dharmic formulations, he became even more terrifying. By devouring innumerable lives, he had forged himself into a terrifying existence.


    He was an existence even the Buddhists and Heavenly Courts could not do a thing to.


    Their worst fears were being realized!


    He was really here!


    "Supremacy Star Destruction?" In Divine Firmament Chapter, Ancestral Master Zhang''s avatar stood in midair as he looked up. His expression changed. "Even he has come. What secret does my Great Chang world have? Why are the fiends sparing no expense to occupy it?"


    "Junior Brother Qin," said Ancestral Master Zhang''s avatar via voice transmission as he looked in Qin Yun''s direction. "I will immediately make a breakthrough. You should head to the array formation first to preside over it and try to stop him."


    "Alright, leave it to me."


    Inside Grand Dominance City, Qin Yun immediately nodded solemnly. He sent a voice transmission, "Senior Brother Zhang, do your breakthrough with ease. The eight massive arrays should be able to hold him back for some time. Besides, I don''t believe the Heavenly Courts and the Buddhists would sit idle."


    "Xiaoxiao, follow me to meet him," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao nodded; however, her eyes betrayed her worry. "Can you stop him?"


    "We likely won''t be able to stop him for long by our powers alone. However, the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists will not sit idle." As Qin Yun spoke, he took a step across the void with his wife in hand. They came above the sea thousands of kilometers away. This was also where the sea neighbored the continent. It was considered quite close to Supremacy Star Destruction, but Qin Yun remained inside the array while Supremacy Star Destruction was outside.


    "Brother Yun, look," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up for he had already seen it.


    Eighteen figures had appeared in the cosmos. They were none other than the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats!


    "The Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats are already here!" Yi Xiao revealed a look of glee. "Their combined strength will be able to hold back Supremacy Star Destruction."


    "The Heavenly Courts and Buddhists have always gone to great lengths to capture Supremacy Star Destruction," said Qin Yun with a node. "Supremacy Star Destruction cultivates the spirit-devouring art and has chosen to remain in the Skyfiend realm. In Small Worlds, the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists are unable to do a thing to him. He can devour countless beings in a world, allowing his strength to accumulate to a terrifying state. His strength can even match that of pinnacle Ancestral Fiends, but his sins far exceed most Ancestral Fiends. In all of the Three Realms, his sins rank in the top ten, and even possibly in the top five. The Heavenly Courts and Buddhists will naturally do their best to finally be rid of him."


    And at that moment, the black-robed man looked skyward at the eighteen Buddhist Arhats leisurely and chuckled. "Haha, you Buddhists sure are fast. Unfortunately, all of you have never been able to take me down despite your continued efforts. My sins are heinous, and killing me will gain you great merit and increase the light that shines down from providence! You eighteen Arhats started off being slightly stronger than me, but now, it''s me who is stronger. Haha, what a joke."


    "Star Destruction." The eighteen Arhats were infuriated. Leading them was Arhat Taming Dragon who bellowed, "The circulation of the Heavenly Dao results in karma. For you to wreak havoc so wantonly, the Heavens will take you down even if we don''t."


    "Take me down? How?" The black-robed smiled. "Compared to you Buddhists, the Heavenly Courts are slow, but it seems they have finally arrived."


    "Boom!"


    In space, a group of obstreperous figures appeared. They numbered more than a hundred.


    A number of them matched mighty figures, and a large number of them had the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal.


    "Hehehe." The black-robed man looked up as he sighed. "The 36 Heavenly Constellations and the 72 Earthly Wraiths are all here. It''s said that the strongest array formation for Small Worlds in the Three Realms is the Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith Formation set up by the 108 of you. I''ve fought you before, but unfortunately, I''m in no mood to fight you again."


    "Star Destruction, you are to leave quickly. We can still spare you, or we will have to go all out in battle!" The 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths all wore cold expressions.


    "All out?"


    The black-robed man smiled as he flipped his hand, producing a silver disk.


    Whoosh!


    The silver disk immediately exploded with radiant light as it invoked the powers of the distant and ancient Great Yin Star. The dense and horrifying Great Yin powers instantly spread in every direction as they enveloped the entire Great Chang world. However, the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures were protected by array formations, preventing any infiltration from external forces.


    "Power of Great Yin?"


    "The Connate Numinous treasure, Great Yin Disk?" Everyone''s expression changed.


    "Come. If you have the guts, you eighteen Arhats and the 36 Heavenly Constellations and 72 Earthly Wraiths can all enter my Great Yin domain to fight me," said the black-robed man with a laugh.


    High in the sky, the eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths wore ugly expressions.


    "How did the Great Yin Disk land in his hands? Wasn''t that Connate Numinous treasure a possession of Patriarch Bojia?"


    "His black cloud body gains tremendous advantages with the Great Yin Disk, granting him immense strength. Not only are we no match for him, but his spirit-devouring art makes his two arms extremely terrifying. Even we will suffer under him."


    The eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith hesitated.


    Experts of the spirit-devouring lineage¡­


    At the half-step Ancestral Fiend realm, they had jaws which could devour Connate Numinous treasures.


    As for Supremacy Star Destruction, he had devoured the lives of so many for years, riddling him with heinous sins. His jaws were even more terrifying. Connate Numinous treasures? Array formations? He could crack all of them.


    "Haha, are you afraid? Are you all afraid?" The black-robed man laughed out loud. He had fought them all before, and now with the Great Yin Disk, he held a greater advantage over his former adversaries!


    At that moment in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, many Ancestral Fiends were watching the Great Chang world remotely. They too knew of the commotion happening.


    "Isn''t the Great Yin Disk Bojia''s? Why is it in Star Destruction''s hands?"


    "Star Destruction is even more powerful with the Great Yin Disk. In Small Worlds, no one in the Three Realms can hold him back. No one is even his match."


    "The Heavenly Courts and Buddhists can only watch helplessly. If they were to send the eighteen Arhats or 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths in, it''s possible that a few of them might perish. It will pain their hearts tremendously."


    The various Ancestral Fiends watched with interest.


    Supremacy Star Destruction was on their side; thus, the Ancestral Fiends were naturally delighted to see the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists suffering a setback.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and his wife watched with changed expressions from above the East Sea.

 553 Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian

    Chapter 553: Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Each of the eighteen Buddhist Arhats are no way inferior to Golden Immortals and Buddhas," said Yi Xiao anxiously. "Arhat Taming Dragon is extremely famous in the Three Realms. Despite that, the eighteen of them combined are still afraid of Supremacy Star Destruction? There''s the 36 Heavenly Constellations and 72 Earthly Wraiths as well. Each of the Heavenly Constellations rival mighty figures in strength. Even the Earthly Wraiths have strength at the half-step Golden Immortal level. Yet with their Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith Formation, they are still afraid of Star Destruction?"


    Qin Yun stared high into the sky. As he looked at the Great Yin Disk which appeared like a moon in Star Destruction''s hands, he said, "Based on current intelligence, they should not be afraid of Supremacy Star Destruction when they combine forces. But now, Supremacy Star Destruction has obtained the Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, which greatly increases his strength. He is also different from ordinary experts. He''s best at destruction! He can even destroy Connate Numinous treasures. If the Eighteen Arhat Formation and the Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith Formation are destroyed by him, there might be casualties."


    "He''s that powerful?" Yi Xiao turned worried.


    "Yes. Even I do not dare to use my Intrinsic Flying Sword against him," said Qin Yun with a defeated tone. He had no choice but to admit it despite being unwilling to do so.


    His strength only matched that of an ordinary mighty figure. He was only considered most average compared to people like the eighteen Arhats.


    When one''s strength was inferior¡­


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword could easily be chipped even if it couldn''t be snapped in two.


    "Although my Great Chang world''s eight massive arrays are powerful, Senior Brother Zhang and I feared that the fiends would send Supremacy Star Destruction," said Qin Yun as he glared.


    "How does he have the Great Yin Disk? That is a domain-type Connate Numinous treasure. It''s extremely precious and it is rumored that it''s Patriarch Bojia''s most cherished treasure," asked Yi Xiao.


    "Is there a need to ask?"


    Qin Yun continued, "Previously, there was Kuifu and Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. They were both Patriarch Bojia''s subordinates! The Great Yin Disk in Supremacy Star Destruction''s possession was also Patriarch Bojia''s¡­ Clearly, the one who''s trying to attack our Great Chang world is actually Patriarch Bojia. And Patriarch Bojia has no right to order Supremacy Star Destruction on a mission. The Great Yin Disk is probably the price for seeking his help. He really is willing to go to great lengths to conquer our Great Chang world. He is even willing to pay such a huge price!"


    "Then what can be done about it?"


    "Let''s hope the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists have another solution."


    ¡­


    And in space.


    The eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith were burning with anxiety and anger. However, none of them dared to act rashly.


    This made Supremacy Star Destruction, who was below them, turn gleeful.


    "Whoosh."


    A figure tore through space as he walked out of a spatial passageway. By his side was a black dog.


    He was dressed in silver armor, and he held a three-pointed, double-edged lance. He overlooked the area beneath him calmly.


    "Greetings, Perfect Sovereign!" The 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith became delighted as they saw their leader and immediately bowed reverently.


    "Greetings, Perfect Sovereign."


    The eighteen Arhats also bowed slightly.


    Even the smug Supremacy Star Destruction''s expression changed. He looked up into the cosmos at the silver-armored man with the black dog. "Yang Jian?"


    The person who had arrived was Heavenly Courts'' number one combat general¡ªPerfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, who hailed from the Guan River''s mouth. He cultivated in the best body-tempering Dharmic formulation in the Three Realms, the Eight-Nine Arcane Art. He was cream of the crop among pinnacle Golden Immortals. Similarly, he was the best combat general in Jade Void Palace. He was most unrelenting in his pursuits of fiends with heinous sins. He had even slain seven Ancestral Fiends.


    What fiendish demon in the Three Realms would not fear him?


    Yang Jian looked down and saw the couple hovering above the East Sea''s surface in the Great Chang world.


    "Qin Yun?" Yang Jian''s eyes had a look of warmth. He was most unrelenting when it came to pursuing fiends; therefore, he had also kept tabs on Qin Yun.


    Despite Qin Yun''s time in the spotlight being short, many fiends had succumbed to his sword. Among those were quite a number of half-step Ancestral Fiends. Even Fiend King Zhuhou of the spirit-devouring lineage had died to Qin Yun. Same for Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. Yang Jian came to think highly of Qin Yun after he investigated his background! He did not care about sect differences, but cared more about those who truly devoted themselves to slaying fiends. In contrast, Yang Jian despised the immortals and buddhas who led leisurely lives.


    "Haha. Yang Jian, I never expected you to come as well," roared Star Destruction with laughter. "It''s said that you are the best combat general in the Heavenly Courts, as well as the best combat general in Jade Void Palace. But from my point of view, you are this and nothing more."


    Yang Jian stood among the stars and ignored Supremacy Star Destruction. Instead, he said, "Divine generals, Arhats, can you purge this fiend?"


    The eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith shook their heads slightly in embarrassment.


    "Fine. Attack him in the cosmos and restrain him," ordered Yang Jian. "I will ensure your safety."


    "Yes." The Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths acknowledged the order.


    "Perfect Sovereign, thank you." The eighteen Arhats nodded with a smile.


    Yang Jian was extremely powerful in combat. He was absolutely the strongest among pinnacle Golden Immortals. He had no fear even if he fought perfected Ancestral Fiends. He was illustrious during the battle of the three Daoist factions, and over time, he became even stronger.


    "Restrain me?"


    Star Destruction laughed out loud.


    His body transformed into an obstreperous black cloud. The massive black cloud appeared like a miniature planet. It settled in the sky above the Great Chang world and blotted out half the sky. Deep in the black clouds was a red glow that left one''s heart palpitating. And amid the red glow surfaced a gigantic face. It looked towards the stars and laughed out loud. "Yang Jian, the Three Realms talk about how powerful you are. But I want to see how capable you are. Take this!"


    His goading was accompanied by world-shaking laughter.


    From deep in the black clouds, two red arms extended out. The arms were like tempered stone that suffused scarlet. It had red patterns that looked like the formation of volcanic activity. However, the two arms were tens of thousands of kilometers long. They extended into space and reached for Yang Jian.


    Yang Jian''s eyes emitted a cold glint that stood out amidst dark space as he struck out forward.


    Phew!


    The entire space warped as a huge phantom palm imprint was produced. It was tens of thousands of kilometers in span as it slammed straight at the grotesque red arms.


    "Boom~" It was accompanied by a deep rumble.


    The two red arms, that were tens of thousands of kilometers long, hurled forward with full force. But they trembled when struck by the phantom giant palm imprint. It immediately swooshed back in retreat and retracted from the Small World''s boundaries.


    "The spirit-devouring lineage sure has interesting means." Yang Jian squinted his eyes slightly. He also knew that the two arms were the strongest parts of Supremacy Star Destruction. They were even stronger than ordinary Connate Numinous treasures. He had no means to destroy them either, but in comparison, the black cloud which was Star Destruction''s true body was relatively weaker. He could probably easily crush it if it was right in front of him!


    However, Star Destruction was extremely crafty. He kept his body inside the Small World, only using his powerful arms to extend his attacks into space.


    "Hmph, Yang Jian. What can you do to me while I''m inside the Great Chang world?" The face in the black cloud scoffed. Following that, the two gigantic red arms swooped down to grab at the Great Chang world''s array formation.


    "Restrain him," said Yang Jian.


    "Star Destruction!"


    The Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith Formation and the Eighteen Arhat Formation were simultaneously put into motion.


    They attacked from a distance.


    Beams of stellar light pummeled the black cloud.


    There were also golden palm imprints that smashed at him.


    "Attacking from tens of thousands of kilometers away, and even in my Great Yin domain? You want to restrain me?" The face in the black cloud laughed out loud. The red arms continued extending out as they finally grabbed onto numerous array formations above the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked up.


    They clearly saw the red stony arms which resembled heavenly pillars plunge towards them. Just the mere sight left them repressed.


    "Bam!"


    As the light from the array formations swirled, they formed ripples. The gigantic barrier of light undulated as the ripples diverted the impactful force away. The eight massive arrays were indeed impressive, managing to forcefully withstand the two arms.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Streams of stellar light descended, but were constantly fended off by the dense Great Yin domain. By the time they traveled 15,000 kilometers and made it to the black cloud, they had lost about 80% of their might.


    The golden palm imprints produced by the eighteen Arhats flew the same distance through the Great Yin domain, but the weakening was even more evident.


    The stellar streams of light and golden palm imprints landed on the black cloud which spanned more than five thousand kilometers, only to rapidly sink into oblivion.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun, Daoist Divine Firmament. I''m Yang Jian. In a while, I will get the eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths to use a treasure to deliver our full might. We will be able to hold back Star Destruction for a short period of time. It will prevent him from diverting any attention in your direction. The both of you are to take this opportunity to escape the Great Chang world. You can also bring a small amount of people along as you escape. However, you have to be fast!" A clear voice sounded in Qin Yun''s and Ancestral Master Zhang''s ears through karma. "Prepare quickly. Once you are done with your preparations, inform me."


    "Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. He did not know Yang Jian at all. Yet, he was giving him so much help?

 554 Only Choice

    Chapter 554: Only Choice


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Perfect Sovereign," pleaded Qin Yun through a karmic voice transmission. "I know it''s beyond your power, but please think of a way to save the billions of lives of the Great Chang world. I, Qin Yun, will definitely not forget your great kindness!"


    "Perfect Sovereign, please take pity on our Great Chang world''s lives. Save them." Ancestral Master Zhang also chimed in via a karmic voice transmission.


    In the starry cosmos, Yang Jian shook his head gently despite hearing their impassioned voice transmissions.


    There were many things even he was powerless against.


    "I''m unable to descend into a Small World with my true body. With things as they are, I can''t help you," said Yang Jian via voice transmission. "Star Destruction''s Chaos Godfiend body and the Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, are perfect for one another. His strength has increased quite substantially. Now, the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith Formation is no longer his match. In the entire Three Realms¡­ no one can do a thing to him as long as he remains in a Small World."


    "Even the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists have no solutions?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "The Heavenly Courts and Buddhists are not omnipotent."


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    He had originally placed his hopes on the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists, as well as the powerful entities of the Three Realms. But clearly, Star Destruction was invincible in Small Worlds!


    "Oh?" Qin Yun turned his head and looked in the direction of the Divine Firmament Chapter. He sensed a terrifying lightning surge into the Divine Firmament Chapter. "Senior Brother Zhang has made a breakthrough?"


    ¡­


    Inside Divine Firmament Chapter.


    Ancestral Master Zhang sat cross-legged with the twelve Lightning Godfiends avatars surrounding him. Terrifying purple lightning was bolting across him as his aura was much stronger than before.


    For many years, his deepest insight was in the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array. His Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma had sourced itself from the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array. In the Lightning Beast Manor, he had learned the Capital Heaven Divine Lightning. It was a Lightning Dharma array that was created with the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array as a blueprint.


    After Ancestral Master Zhang cultivated it to perfection, his insights into the Massive Twelve Capital Heaven Divine Wraith Array deepened. He had much greater confidence in his Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma''s ninth firmament Dharmic formulation.


    After cultivating for more than a thousand years in the Lightning Beast Manor, and then consuming the Connate Lightning Fruit¡­ Ancestral Master Zhang''s Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma''s ninth firmament Dharmic formulation had an eighty percent chance of success. He had to make a breakthrough this time! He could not be bothered to worry even if his Lightning Dharma wasn''t sufficiently perfect.


    And the result was¡­


    Success!


    "Ninth firmament Skyimmortal." Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes lit up. The Dharmic formulation he created had robust foundations. Therefore, his Dharmic powers surged straight to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm the moment he broke through. The sixth firmament Dharmic powers in him were constantly transforming.


    "As expected. My Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma is definitely one of the best Lightning Dharma in the Three Realms, in no way inferior to Senior Brother Sa''s Heavenly Constellation Lightning Dharma." Ancestral Master Zhang was pumped. After all, this was his pursuit over thousands of years of cultivation. Following that, he took out an Immortal Pill from a yellow-skinned calabash. He consumed it to replenish his Dharmic powers and accelerate their conversion.


    "If I can save all the life in my homeworld, I''m willing to abandon my Divine Firmament Lightning Dharma." Ancestral Master Zhang stood up. With a series of whooshes, the twelve Lightning Godfiends avatars transformed into streams of light and fused into his body.


    "Sou!"


    He flew out of his seclusion chamber.


    ******


    In the sky above the East Sea''s offshore, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao saw Ancestral Master Zhang appear beside them with Void Transference. His aura was clearly much more powerful than before. He was as strong as Senior Brother Sa and Daoist Zou.


    "I''ve come." Ancestral Master Zhang looked up into the sky. Outside the array formation, the two red arms which resembled heavenly columns were descending from deep within the clouds. The palms were like fiery mountains that stretched out for hundreds of kilometers. Each finger was razor sharp, and when it struck the array formation''s barriers in a bid to tear through them, the eight massive array formations would quake and produce numerous ripples.


    "The Heavenly Courts and Buddhists are out of solutions. Perfect Sovereign has urged us to escape with a small group of people." Qin Yun looked up as well.


    "Let''s combine forces and try to see if we can stop him," said Ancestral Master Zhang.


    "Alright, let''s give it a try."


    With a thought from Qin Yun, stellar light emanated his surroundings and began to condense into 360 Stellar Flying Swords.


    Ancestral Master Zhang waved his hand and immediately, twelve Lightning Godfiends avatars flew out. Each of them held an array flag as they formed a massive array.


    "Destroy." A huge purple talisman amulet phantom appeared behind Ancestral Master Zhang as a roar accompanied it.


    A wisp of gray lighting was born out of the array formation, effusing the aura of Chaos.


    This wisp of gray lightning rapidly flew upwards.


    Simultaneously, the 360 Stellar Flying Swords flew up as well.


    The array barrier trembled slightly as the gray lightning and flying swords flew out!


    But the moment they exited, the Great Yin domain outside became a constant obstacle to the Stellar Flying Swords and gray lightning''s flight.


    The two gigantic red palms still fell from the sky. Immediately, the 360 Stellar Flying Swords formed a Water Cage that spanned hundreds of kilometers to hold back one of the palms. However, the red palm was completely unaffected. It continued its smite down! The palm hurtled down, dissipating the Water Cage as though it were a mere puddle.


    Poof! The gray wisp of lightning was lightning at the Chaos level, a move that matched that of a Golden Immortal''s.


    However, under the red palm''s strike, the wisp of gray lightning trembled slightly under it before being completely obliterated.


    "Boom! Boom!" Two gigantic red palms with razor-sharp fingers stabbed at the array formation once again. It caused the barrier to quake and ripple.


    As for Qin Yun''s and Ancestral Master Zhang''s attacks? They were useless.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang fell silent upon seeing this.


    It was expected. The combined attacks of the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats and the Heavenly Courts'' 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith was still much stronger than the combined attacks of Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang. This was even after being greatly weakened after crossing the tens of thousands of kilometers of the Great Yin domain. Yet, none of their attacks were effective.


    As for the two of them? They were just putting up a meaningless struggle!


    "Since this cannot be stopped, there''s no reason to send yourselves to your deaths. Save yourselves. It won''t be too late to seek revenge in the future," urged Yang Jian via voice transmission as he watched from the cosmos. "Quickly make a decision. Your homeworld''s array formation won''t last long."


    "What do I do? What should I do?"


    Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes looked anxious.


    For millennia, he had been protecting this world. It was his homeworld, his roots. He had established a sect here and spread the Dao. His ancestors and descendants were all here¡­ The death of billions of lives in his homeworld felt worse than his own.


    "Qin Yun, what do we do? What other solution do we have?" Ancestral Master Zhang looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun looked up into the distance.


    He looked across the void and easily saw every spot on the continent.


    On the continent, countless people were looking up into the sky. All they saw was a gigantic black cloud that covered half the sky! They were agape from seeing the red arms slam down at the array barriers again and again. They were horrified as all of them prayed.


    "Jade Emperor, please bless us¡­"


    "Guan Yin Bodhisattva, please bless us¡­"


    Countless people pleaded to the deities and Buddhas.


    "Xi''er don''t be afraid. Hush." There were also young women carrying younger toddlers. The toddlers looked up in the sky feeling terrified.


    All these scenes¡­


    Qin Yun saw all of them. He even saw the Water race look up into the sky through the Four Seas'' surface.


    This was his homeworld which had brought him up. It had billions of innocent lives.


    "Supremacy Star Destruction''s arms are very powerful. They can destroy Connate Numinous treasures. He is now damaging the array formation." Ancestral Master Zhang watched from afar. He could see that many of the array disks and flags they had set up were beginning to suffer damage. "The array formation will likely only be able to last five minutes."


    "If there''s really no solution, why don''t we save a few and depart with them instead of having everyone die together?" said Ancestral Master Zhang finally.


    "There''s still one way."


    Qin Yun spoke.


    Ancestral Master Zhang and Yi Xiao looked in astonishment at Qin Yun.


    "What way?" Ancestral Master Zhang revealed a look of delight.


    "Brother Yun, you have a solution?" Yi Xiao found it unbelievable. What solution did Qin Yun have that the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists didn''t?


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun dispelled a concealment Dharma spell with a thought. All peak third Firmament Essence Souls knew such a concealment Dharma spell. It was used to evade detection by the Heavenly Dao so as to delay any tribulations. It was common for Essence Soul Earth Immortals who lived for hundreds of thousands of years, or even millions of years. There were instances of people in the Three Realms who deliberately stayed in the Essence Soul realm in order to cultivate divine powers. They had strength that matched mighty figures. The Buddhist Arhats were one such example.


    Such concealment Dharma spells were very common.


    Qin Yun had dispelled it and deliberately allowed the Heavenly Dao to sense him, so as to invite the Heavenly Tribulations upon him.


    "Boom!" Black clouds began to gather ten thousand feet above Qin Yun. He looked up and flicked his sleeve, sending Yi Xiao far away.


    "What are you doing?" Ancestral Master Zhang was alarmed. As he saw the tribulation clouds form in the sky, he exclaimed, "It''s the Heavenly Tribulation! Are you attempting to transcend the tribulations? Have you created a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage!?"


    "This is the only choice," said Qin Yun

 555 Qin Yuns Tribulation

    Chapter 555: Qin Yun''s Tribulation


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun stood and watched the black clouds that formed a whirlpool. The tribulation clouds brought with them a terrifying might, a might that belonged to the Heavenly Dao of the Three Realms.


    "After transcending the Heavenly Tribulation and fusing the spirit and body as one, I will have a Skyimmortal''s body. My Dharmic powers would then be enhanced, becoming Skyimmortal Dharmic powers," thought Qin Yun.


    Heavenly Tribulations were the tribulations for immortals.


    Although Earth Immortals could lead long lives, they were still plagued by tribulations. Only by transcending the final Heavenly Tribulation would they become Skyimmortals, allowing them to reach a lifespan that was as long as the world''s, and to lead life in a carefree manner.


    Of course, there was the legendary Merit Immortal. Upon gaining great merit, one''s body would have Merit Gilded Glow protecting their bodies. Without the need to cultivate, their powers could be transformed into Merit Dharmic powers to grant them immortality. Heavenly Tribulations would not befall them and they would never be plagued by tribulations or calamities. With great merit, they could hold down the light shone from providence. Even the Heavenly Courts would attempt to rope them in. As for Ancestral Fiends, they would be unwilling to offend them. Of course, the fiends among fiends, the spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage experts would still dare to attack Merit Immortals.


    However, the amount of merit needed to obtain Merit Gilded Glow was astounding¡­ For example, Qin Yun had yet to reach the Merit Gilded Glow stage despite all the fiends he had dealt with to date.


    Also, Merit Dharmic powers were too ordinary, making them inadequate for combat.


    For those that cultivated the Physical Establishing Sage, Lightning Dharma, or sword immortal Dharmic formulations¡­ people who pursuit real strength, they would not be willing to become Merit Immortals even if they had Merit Gilded Glow. They would chose to undergo the calamities and cultivate step by step, giving them powerful Dharmic powers and divine powers.


    ¡­


    "Brother Yun, you have created the Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage?" Yi Xiao stood far off and inquired via voice transmission. "Didn''t you say recently that the Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage is very difficult? That the attempted Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation you created is still very crude? And your confidence in it is very low?"


    "I have gained some insights. I have fifty percent confidence in the Sword Immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation," replied Qin Yun via voice transmission.


    "Fifty percent confidence?" Yi Xiao said worried. "Brother Yun, to transcend the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal, there''s no chance to attempt it a second time. Fifty percent confidence¡­"


    "This is the only way to save the Great Chang world."


    Qin Yun transmitted his voice.


    Yi Xiao burned with anxiety, but she could only bear with it and secretly console herself. "Thankfully, there''s a fifty percent chance of success. If Brother Yun is lucky, he might succeed."


    However, Qin Yun looked at the tribulation clouds in the sky.


    "Xiaoxiao, my Dharmic formulation is still very crude. How can I have fifty percent confidence? It''s just ten or twenty percent," thought Qin Yun. "But this is the only chance we have to save our homeworld."


    He had said fifty percent only to console his wife.


    "Phew¨C"


    The whirlpool beneath the tribulation clouds brought strong winds that blew at Qin Yun.


    The Winds of the Heavenly Tribulation had arrived!


    The winds appeared mild, but they could easily penetrate into one''s body and pulverize his bones and eviscerate his flesh and blood, until he became meat pulp.


    Qin Yun bore with it.


    Heavenly Tribulations¡­


    They were a series of Wind, Fire, and Lightning tribulations!


    To ordinary Essence Soul Earth Immortals, the threat possessed by the Heavenly Tribulation was extremely high. But to an Essence Soul Earth Immortal like Qin Yun who had strength that matched a mighty figure, it was trivial. Even if he had heinous sins, he would still be able to withstand the Heavenly Tribulation, so it was fine for someone like him with great merit.


    "Whoosh."


    The Wind Tribulation blew across his body, but the great divine power, the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes, made the Wind Tribulation pose zero threat to him.


    The winds blew thrice, each stronger than the last, but even the strongest wind could only threaten ordinary second firmament Essence Souls.


    "Whoosh." Flames appeared from the tribulation clouds and descended upon Qin Yun.


    "Just three Wind Tribulations stages?" Ancestral Master Zhang''s brows pricked up in astonishment when he saw this. "Typical Heavenly Tribulations have nine stages of Heavenly Wind, Heavenly Fire, and Heavenly Lightning¡­ Junior Brother Qin only received three stages of Wind Tribulations? From the looks of it, Junior Brother Qin has just too much merit. He''s probably not far from Merit Gilded Glow."


    "The hardest part of a Sword Immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation is the fusion of spirit and body. Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic powers are extremely sharp, making it very difficult to fuse them with the body. If Junior Brother Qin were to break through the critical barrier of fusing spirit and body¡­ then, the first to ninth stages would be relatively easy for Junior Brother Qin."


    "If he were able to reach the ninth firmament of Skyimmortal in one shot, considering how he has forged his own lineage, his pure Dharmic powers would allow him to match a Golden Immortal."


    "With pure Dharmic powers and sword moves at the Golden Immortal level¡­ together with that terrifying Connate Numinous treasure flying sword, the Great Chang can be saved!" Ancestral Master Zhang''s eyes were filled with anticipation.


    ******


    In the cosmos.


    The Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats and the Heavenly Courts'' 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith were putting everything that had into restraining Supremacy Star Destruction. However, they were also looking curiously below. They could see the world beneath at a glance, where Qin Yun was in the midst of transcending the tribulations.


    "This Sword Immortal Qin is attempting to transcend the tribulations?"


    "He is someone who has created a new sword immortal lineage. Has he figured out a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation for the sword immortal lineage? Is he confident that he can fuse Essence Soul and body?"


    "If he was a hundred percent confident, he would have long transcended the tribulations. For him to resort to breaking through now, when things are desperate, it appears he is only partially confident."


    "To dare transcend the tribulations, he should have seventy or eighty percent confidence."


    The various generals and Arhats were discussing via voice transmissions.


    Yang Jian looked down. He had urged Qin Yun and company to escape, but Qin Yun was now transcending the tribulations?


    "Sword Immortal Dharmic Powers are the sharpest Dharmic powers in the Three Realms. Condensing an Essence Soul is very difficult, but fusing spirit and body together is even more difficult! Has he really figured it out?" Yang Jian also watched in anticipation, hoping for a miracle to be born.


    ¡­


    Too many people were watching this battle across the Three Realms.


    The Heavenly Courts'' Golden Immortals, the Buddhists'' Buddhas, and even various Sagedemons, Ancestral Dragons, Ancestral Magi, as well as the Ancestral Fiends from the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss were watching.


    This was because this battle in the Great Chang world held great implications.


    The Tenebrous Fiend Abyss had sent out Supremacy Star Destruction, while the Heavenly Courts had sent their various generals. Furthermore, if one understood the entire sequence of events, they could guess that there had to be a special reason for the fiends to attack the Great Chang world repeatedly.


    And the person most nervous at that moment was Patriarch Bojia.


    "He''s attempting to transcend the tribulations?"


    Inside Bojia Palace, Bojia''s four faces all wore different expressions.


    "Is a ninth firmament Skyimmortal sword immortal of a new lineage about to be born?" Bojia immediately sent a voice transmission, urging. "Star Destruction, hurry. Destroy the massive array quickly. Don''t allow that Qin Yun to transcend the tribulations."


    "What are you panicking for?"


    Star Destruction''s voice transmissions sounded from a distance. "So what if he succeeds at transcending the tribulations? Do you think he can stop me?"


    "Don''t think too highly of yourself. Sword immortals are known to be able to destroy all Dharma with a single sword. They are best at combat and can fight several levels above them," reminded Bojia via voice transmission. "It''s best to be quick."


    "I''m already doing my best to crack the array, but the eight arrays combined are like one entity. It will still take me a while to crack it! Besides, this Qin Yun''s Heavenly Tribulation is very weak. It only has three stages of the Wind, Fire, and Lightning Tribulations¡­ His tribulations will soon end. I won''t be in time to stop him. But don''t worry, he''s definitely not my match even if he becomes a ninth firmament Skyimmortal."


    "To have strength that reaches my level at the Skyimmortal or Skyfiend realm? Hmph, impossible." Star Destruction was very confident.


    ******


    High above the Great Chang world and deep within the massive black cloud that spanned more than five thousand kilometers, the gigantic face looked down below. Its red stony arms extended out as it struck the array beneath it again and again. The apocalyptic arms made countless mortals in the Great Chang world look up. All of them were panicking in horror. Everyone could tell that each blow caused the eight arrays to tremble. They looked like they would crack at any time.


    And even the places where the arrays were set up were quaking as well.


    The array flags were gradually dimming.


    The array disks were beginning to crack.


    Clearly, every blow exerted immense pressure on the array formation.


    "Boom!"


    Above the East Sea, the black vortex''s tribulation clouds smote down with lightning, striking Qin Yun with Heavenly Lightning.


    His protective divine power easily withstood it.


    The first lightning smite!


    The second lightning smite!


    It was followed by the third lightning smite, which was also the last.


    "The Heavenly Tribulation has ended." Yi Xiao, Ancestral Master Zhang, the eighteen Buddhist Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith, and Yang Jian were watching. Many mighty figures in the Three Realms were watching as well. Even Qin Yun''s master, the Dao Ancestor, one of the Three Pure Ones, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, was watching from Green Touring Palace.


    The Heavenly Tribulation''s Wind, Fire, and Lightning tribulations posed no threat to Qin Yun.


    What everyone was really concerned about was whether Qin Yun could fuse his spirit and body!


    "Boom!"


    Although the third bolt of lightning was blocked off by Qin Yun''s protective divine power, a special lightning force easily penetrated his protective divine power and entered his body.


    This mysterious lightning force began fusing into Qin Yun''s body before also working its way into his Essence Soul. It began catalyzing Qin Yun''s fusion of Essence Soul and body.


    At this point, he could no longer retreat!


    He had to fuse his spirit and body together to become a Skyimmortal.


    To people with Dharmic formulations, transcending the tribulations was the difficult step. Fusion of spirit and body was something that came naturally. As for Qin Yun, who created his own Dharmic formulation¡­ transcending the Heavenly Tribulation was easy, but fusing spirit and body was the hardest.


    "Come on!" Qin Yun began circulating the Dharmic formulation he created. The crude Dharmic formulation which only had about ten or twenty percent chance of success initiated the fusion.


    "Fuse!"


    Inside his dantian, Qin Yun''s Essence Soul with its tiny limbs rapidly expanded in size to match his body in an attempt to fuse.


    Fusion of Essence Soul and body.


    Just as he started the fusion process, Qin Yun felt a stabbing pain all across his body. It felt like countless swords were stabbing at him.


    "No good!" Qin Yun immediately knew that something was amiss.

 556 Itinerant Immortal Qin Yun

    Chapter 556: Itinerant Immortal Qin Yun


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Even I found my Sword Immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation very crude. How could I succeed in fusing spirit and body with such a crude Dharmic formulation?" Qin Yun discovered that the Essence Soul Dharmic powers placed too much burden on his body the moment he began the fusion. The extremely sharp Dharmic powers were like swords stabbing into his body, causing his body to crumble from the deepest depths¡­


    His body began to collapse the moment he began the fusion!


    He had failed!


    And Qin Yun was not in the least surprised.


    ¡­


    Under everyone''s scrutiny, Qin Yun''s Essence Soul and body began the fusion.


    The Essence Soul was ethereal while the body was corporeal. They looked identical, but the moment the fusion began¡ª


    Whoosh!


    His body was crumbling from its deepest depths. Every atom was falling apart, until the whole body collapsed into an incorporeal state. It dispersed across the world, leaving behind nothing but an Essence Soul.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao''s expression changed when she saw this. "You failed? There''s no way to become a Skyimmortal once the fusion of spirit and flesh fails."


    "Junior Brother Qin." Ancestral Master Zhang''s heart palpitated. "There''s no chance of redoing the trial once the fusion of spirit and body fails. Junior Brother Qin''s body has even collapsed. Is he going to be an Itinerant Immortal? Ever since the rise of the fiends, the Itinerant Immortal path is a dead end. Was this Junior Brother Qin''s only method of saving our homeworld?"


    "He has cultivated for much less time than me, but has already matched that of a mighty figure. He even forged a new sword immortal lineage. He had limitless potential! Now, his future is gone," thought Ancestral Master Zhang.


    ¡­


    In the cosmos, the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats, the Heavenly Courts'' 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith were also watching, but when they saw Qin Yun''s attempt at fusing Essence Soul and body fail, all of them gasped.


    "He failed."


    "Creating a new sword immortal lineage is just too difficult! Apart from Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, Qin Yun is the only one in the Three Realms who has managed to create an Essence Soul Dharmic formulation. However, he has still failed in the creation of the more difficult Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation."


    "He probably lacked one hundred percent confidence. If he was confident, he would have long transcended the tribulations! With Star Destruction''s arrival, his homeworld is on the brink of a calamity. Billions of innocents lives are going to die as a result. He was forced to hastily attempt an early tribulation transcendence using a Dharmic formulation he lacked confidence in. Indeed, he failed at fusing spirit and body."


    "Now, he will become an Itinerant Immortal."


    "Before the rise of the fiends, even if one became an Itinerant Immortal, one could choose to reincarnate and then be guided to awaken their memories, giving them a fresh start! But now, Qin Yun''s strength matches that of a mighty figure. If he chooses to reincarnate, once his soul force enters Samsara¡­ the Fiend Ancestor would attack, destroying his soul, leaving behind only his True Spirit. When a True Spirit reincarnates, even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are unable to receive them. Even if he undergoes a long and arduous cultivation to become a Golden Immortal to awaken the memories in his True Spirit, he would no longer be the present him."


    The Arhats and Heavenly generals shook their heads.


    Before the fiends'' uprising, many mighty figures chose to reincarnate. But now, with the Daoist-Fiend war, both sides were at each other''s throats!


    Mighty figures as well as those that had strength of mighty figures, would be met with the destruction of their soul force upon reincarnation.


    These feelings were not only shared by the Heavenly Generals and Arhats.


    Even Yang Jian felt conflicted. He looked down and watched Qin Yun''s Essence Soul.


    Yang Jian thought, "Qin Yun, you could have taken some people and fled the Great Chang world, but now, you have severed your cultivation path and become an Itinerant Immortal. Was it worth it?"


    "Master, isn''t he dumb?" The black dog beside him spoke human language. "He forcefully transcended the tribulations without the necessary confidence. Great, now he is an Itinerant Immortal! He''s doomed. With the Fiend Ancestor around, he won''t even have a next life."


    "Dumb?"


    Yang Jian did not say a word.


    ******


    Green Touring Palace.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was watching the situation in the Small World across distant space. He was best at the Sword Dao, and had always anticipated what his disciple, Qin Yun, who had carved out a new sword immortal lineage, would bring.


    However, the instant Qin Yun attempted the fusion¡­


    How powerful was the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure? He could easily tell that the Dharmic formulation that Qin Yun was using for his attempt was very crude.


    "With his keenness, he definitely knew that such a crude Dharmic formulation was highly likely to fail." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sighed lightly. "But he still did it. When he chose this path, he had already steeled his mind for the possibility of becoming an Itinerant Immortal."


    "Mortal children¡­"


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure shook his head slightly.


    ¡­


    Yes.


    Qin Yun long new that there was a high chance of failure. Success would be really be down to luck!


    "Since I chose to transcend the tribulations, I was prepared to become an Itinerant Immortal," thought Qin Yun. "But so what? At least my strength has rapidly increased!"


    Qin Yun''s Essence Soul had undergone a change after being exposed to the Heavenly Tribulation''s mysterious wisp of lightning force. It very naturally began to convert him to an Itinerant Immortal.


    Itinerant Immortals cultivated very easily.


    They would escape the shackles of their bodies, allowing them to have powerful Essence Souls.


    Their Essence Souls were as strong as their Dao!


    It was unbounded!


    If one''s Dao reached the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm, the Itinerant Immortal''s Essence Soul Dharmic powers would also reach the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm.


    If one attained the Great Dao, the Itinerant Immortal''s Essence Soul Dharmic powers would also reach that of a Golden Immortal.


    It was common for Essence Soul Earth Immortal to push back their tribulation transcendence to cultivate great divine powers. This was because, without the fusion of spirit and body, just the Essence Soul alone made it more suitable to cultivate the divine powers.


    And Itinerant Immortals did not fuse body and spirit. They didn''t even have bodies. They were naturally suited to cultivate divine powers. In fact, Itinerant Immortals had even more powerful Dharmic powers!


    Despite having a relatively frail body, their divine powers and Dharmic powers were very potent. It appeared to be quite a good choice.


    However, the Heavenly Dao was balanced. There were pros and cons!


    Itinerant Immortals were repressed by the Heavenly Dao. They suffered tribulations every thousand years.


    Each tribulation was more terrifying than the last.


    This also made it so Itinerant Immortals were nearly extinct in the present Three Realms. Even for those who failed to transcend the tribulations, they would quickly choose to reincarnate and be received if their Essence Souls fortuitously survived as Itinerant Immortals. They would choose to start over!


    When the Chaos first developed and mighty figures were beginning their cultivation paths, they discovered that the route of being an Itinerant Immortal was quite a good one. Many mighty figures took the initiative to attempt the constant tribulations.


    After many attempts¡­


    They discovered that a tribulation every thousand years was truly terrifying.


    One''s strength required that of a Golden Immortal mighty figure in order to transcend nine tribulations!


    The tenth tribulation required a pinnacle Golden Immortal''s strength!


    The eleventh tribulation required a perfected Golden Immortal''s strength!


    As for the twelfth tribulation? It was unknown! Perhaps only the strength of the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestor would ensure survival. And clearly, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor would not risk reincarnating. They would use their avatars to walk the mortal world at best.


    And in fact, ever since the Chaos developed, the ancient existences had attempted the Itinerant Immortal path. The one with the highest realm had the strength of a perfected Golden Immortal, allowing him to become an eleventh tribulation Itinerant Immortal. He was also the only eleventh tribulation Itinerant Immortal. But eventually, he failed to transcend the twelfth tribulation.


    In the entire Three Realms¡­


    Not a single twelfth tribulation Itinerant Immortal was born.


    It was still a mystery if there was a thirteenth tribulation.


    Furthermore, Itinerant Immortals had a major flaw. The time given to them for cultivation was just too short.


    A tribulation every millennium.


    Nine millennia meant nine tribulations! One had to have the strength of a Golden Immortal to withstand it.


    For the twelfth tribulation, that was only 12,000 years!


    ******


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun stood above the East Sea as stellar forces draped over him. The surging Heaven and Earth powers around him constantly surged into him to replenish his Dharmic powers.


    And Qin Yun took out a yellow-skinned calabash and took out an Immortal Pill to replenish his Dharmic powers.


    "In terms of realm, I have reached the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm. I''m just short of the Golden Immortal Great Dao. My Itinerant Immortal Essence Soul has also reached the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm." Qin Yun could feel that his Itinerant Immortal Essence Soul''s every wisp of Dharmic powers had fused with his Sword Dao, forming new Dharmic powers. His Dharmic powers were extremely pure, but the extremely weak Dharmic powers within him were converted nearly in a blink of an eye.


    His Essence Soul was quickly drawing on the Immortal Pill''s medicinal effects to strengthen itself. Just the natural absorption of the Heaven and Earth powers was too slow to replenish it.


    "What robust Dharmic powers."


    Qin Yun sensed the mighty Dharmic powers which resembled a obstreperous river. His eyes could not help but light up as he revealed a look of glee.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword in him was nourished by the Dharmic powers as it began to quake. In the past, he had used his Essence Soul Earth Immortal Dharmic powers to power the Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure. It made it impossible to deliver the true might of his Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure! Now, powered by the mighty Itinerant Immortal Dharmic powers, the Intrinsic Flying Sword''s strength was rapidly increasing.


    Qin Yun''s greatest flaw¡ªhis Dharmic powers¡ªwas resolved.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao flew over and asked immediately, "Didn''t you say that your Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation was very crude not long ago and that you lacked the confidence? For you to suddenly transcend the tribulations, were you already planning to become an Itinerant Immortal by failing to fuse spirit and body?"


    "Xiaoxiao, I can still live ten thousand years as an Itinerant Immortal," said Qin Yun with a smile. He now felt relaxed after experiencing it. "Back when we attempted to kill Water God, I had already made up my mind that I was willing to sacrifice my life as long as he could be killed. I have lived so many years in a blink of an eye. And now, I can still live for another ten thousand years. Why would I feel dissatisfied?"


    Qin Yun turned his head to look at the gigantic black clouds in the sky. Two terrifying red arms extended from it as they struck the array formation again and again at full strength in an attempt to rip it open. The array formation was trembling.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The array flags and array disks were suffering constant damage.


    "The array formation won''t last long. I will have to finish this fiend." Qin Yun said to his wife before taking a step to appear high in the sky. He came close to the array formation''s barrier and with a wave of his hand, a wisp of inconspicuous misty rain flew out of his hand and out of the array formation. It flew into the deep depths of the boundless Great Yin domain.


    Yi Xiao watched the figure controlling the flying sword high in the sky¡­


    The figure of the most important man in her life made her recall the same figure who fought Water God¡­


    "Brother Yun has always been like that." Yi Xiao''s eyes were moist. "This is my husband."


    "Yi Xiao." Ancestral Master Zhang looked up and said, "In the past, I was quite impressed by him. But from today forth, I have the deepest respect for him."

 557 Qin Yun Battles Star Destruction

    Chapter 557: Qin Yun Battles Star Destruction


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Standing in midair, Qin Yun felt an unprecedented sense of wellness. He had immense Dharmic powers! His Essence Soul was powerful!


    His mental processes were a lot faster as well.


    Previously, when he cast overly complicated sword moves from the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart, Qin Yun had to consume pills to force his Essence Soul''s mental facilities to speed up. And now, his Essence Soul was a lot more powerful than before. His mental processes were a hundred times faster. It also meant that a year of cultivation in seclusion was equivalent to a hundred years in the past!


    The speed at which he could figure things out was naturally different due to the disparity that stemmed from life''s natural order.


    For instance, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were many times faster than the ordinary Golden Immortal or Buddha when it came to contemplating the Heavenly Dao and nature or the inference of mystical processes.


    "The feeling of a powerful Essence Soul sure is delightful." Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword from afar. He looked at the two red arms which extended from the huge black clouds. "In my ten thousand years as an Itinerant Immortal, I should live my life happily. My first opponent as an Itinerant Immortal shall be this fiend, Star Destruction. Destroying him will be a blast!"


    ¡­


    Although Qin Yun was filled with killing intent, the Misty Rain Sword appeared inconspicuous. It did not seem to pose any threat.


    "Oh?"


    From the massive black cloud five thousand kilometers away, the red glowing face looked down. It instantly noticed the Misty Rain Sword flying towards it. "This Qin Yun has become an Itinerant Immortal. His Dharmic powers have greatly increased, so the might of his flying sword should have increased tremendously as well. However, does he really think I''m an idiot who would be arrogant and careless?"


    With this thought in mind, the two red arms moved immediately. The five-thousand-kilometer long arms appeared to move slowly, but they were, in fact, as fast as the Misty Rain Sword. The Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, also released its lustrous glow, as rich Great Yin forces began hindering the Misty Rain Sword.


    One of the gigantic red stony palms even grabbed at it.


    The move appeared crude, but the palm was just too huge. The Misty Rain Sword was surprisingly unable to avoid it.


    "He''s actually that wary and careful?" A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes. "It looks like there''s no way for me to sneak up to him."


    Boom!


    He gave a command with a thought.


    "Whoosh!" The region surrounding the Misty Rain Sword began to produce thin misty rain. The rain droplets scattered everywhere, completely repulsing the Great Yin forces. When the raindrops pelted the two gigantic arms, each drop influenced the arms'' speed with its immense weight.


    It was the domain that the Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure effused.


    Misty Rain domain!


    This Misty Rain domain was very weak when powered by Qin Yun''s originally lacking Dharmic powers. It was even weaker than the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm''s domain at the phenomenal success stage! But now, with his increased Dharmic powers, his Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure could naturally release its true might. The might had increased sharply, and the potency of the Misty Rain domain was even stronger than the Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk.


    This was the formidable aspect of Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasures!


    "What? It actually managed to suppress my Great Yin forces?" Star Destruction was alarmed.


    "Swoosh!"


    The Misty Rain Sword also suddenly unleashed its terrifying speed.


    The void distorted as it seemed to turn surreal.


    The Misty Rain Sword flashed across space!


    The gigantic palm tried grabbing at it, but despite collapsing the void, it missed.


    "Bam!"


    The other gigantic palm swept across the void ferociously as a flying sword appeared amid the void, sweeping the blade aside. It was sent flying far away.


    "It has been blocked?" Qin Yun was surprised as he immediately changed tactics. "Kill!"


    The Misty Rain Sword flashed, immediately releasing a blinding light.


    "Do you think you can stop me with a mere flying sword?" Accompanied by a resounding roar, the two gigantic palms swiped across the sky and grabbed at the Misty Rain Sword.


    Boom!


    The Misty Rain Sword clashed with a palm in midair, but only used the momentum it received from the clash to fly higher into the black clouds. However, the other palm blocked it.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The flying sword clashed with the two palms, constantly producing resonating booms in midair.


    "As expected of a sword immortal. You can become this strong with just a powerful Connate Numinous treasure flying sword. Your strength can already match the combined forces of the twenty-eight Lunar Mansions. Unfortunately, that''s still useless!" A black chain that effused boundless frost auras flew down from the black cloud as it went straight for the Misty Rain Sword.


    "It''s the Connate Numinous treasure, Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain?" A fierce glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    He was already well-read on the intelligence about Star Destruction.


    Star Destruction was famous across the Three Realms. His most powerful weapon was the two arms he cultivated with the spirit-devouring art! It was his pair of arms that gave him such might. Therefore, he needed a supplementary Connate Numinous treasure. He originally only had one, the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain.


    It was a Connate Numinous treasure that was born before the Chaos developed. It was extraordinarily powerful.


    ¡­


    "What?"


    In space, the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats and Heavenly Courts'' 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith were alarmed.


    "The domain this Qin Yun released is able to repress the Great Yin domain?"


    "His flying sword is very powerful as well. Star Destruction''s two spirit-devouring arms can''t do a thing to it. He even has to use his Connate Numinous treasure, the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain, to deal with Qin Yun."


    "Although it''s a pity that Qin Yun has become an Itinerant Immortal, his Dharmic powers have increased tremendously. Just with that flying sword alone, he can match a pinnacle Golden Immortal in strength. But why is he this powerful? Even if he''s a sword immortal, he shouldn''t be this powerful."


    "His flying sword is extraordinary! It''s either an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure or a top-grade Connate Numinous treasure."


    "Top-grade Connate Numinous treasures are very rare. I''m guessing it''s likely an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure."


    "Sword immortals sure incur envy. With their Intrinsic Flying Swords, they can fight someone a level higher than them."


    "Their Essence Souls and flying swords are one. Their Dharmic powers are overly sharp, so there are pros and cons. For instance, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s sword immortals have Essence Souls in the form of swords¡­ It''s unorthodox! Qin Yun''s Essence Soul is in human form, so it follows the orthodox path. However, the fusion of spirit and body is even harder, which is evident from his failure, turning him into an Itinerant Immortal. If the Dharmic powers were milder, the fusion of spirit and body would be much easier. The Heavenly Dao circulates, and things are fair."


    "But regardless, there is finally someone in the Three Realms who can match Star Destruction in Small Worlds."


    "Unfortunately, he can only live for ten thousand years."


    These Arhats and Heavenly generals were discussing.


    By the side, Yang Jian was looking down. He seemed to see his former self in Qin Yun after how he sacrificed his cultivation path for his homeworld.


    "He does resemble my past self."


    "However, I was luckier," said Yang Jian silently. By the side, his Howling Celestial Dog looked up at its master. He obediently accompanied his master, and would do so forever.


    ******


    "Phew¨C"


    The Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain plunged down as the two gigantic arms joined it to attack the Misty Rain Sword.


    "Kill!" Qin Yun''s eyes were bloodshot.


    The misty rain that scattered everywhere suddenly began forming flying swords with each tiny raindrop. Dense flying swords filled the area, with each minute raindrop flying sword being powerful. Now that Qin Yun''s Essence Soul was even stronger, his mental processes were faster. He could cast even more sword arts in tandem.


    "Water Cage!"


    The dense misty rain flying swords split into three portions instantaneously. They formed three tumultuous flying sword rivers that swept towards the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain and the two red arms.


    "What?" Supremacy Star Destruction was alarmed.


    Although the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain was good at capturing the enemy or binding weapons, it was instantly stalled by the obstreperous misty rain flying sword''s envelopment. Before, it could even tear out of Water Cage instantly.


    Now, the Water Cage''s might had similarly surged in strength.


    "Begone!" The two arms were extremely powerful. Even though large amounts of misty rain flying swords were inundating them, they were still able to forcibly hurl forward.


    "Boom!"


    The Water Cage was unable to stop the two arms.


    However, it was able to drastically slow them down.


    "That''s enough." Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Kill."


    The void distorted as it seemed to turn surreal.


    The Misty Rain Sword phased away at an astounding speed. This time, the two stony arms that had been slowed down could no longer stop Qin Yun''s flying sword.


    "I can''t stop it." In the black cloud, the red glowing face revealed a look of shock. Following that, his expression turned grotesque. "However, I''m not those run-of-the-mill spirit-devouring lineage cultivators. Their bodies are weak, but I''m a Chaos Godfiend. I was born to devour stars to strength my body. This flying sword won''t be able to kill me!"


    "This array formation won''t last much longer. Once I destroy this array formation, I''ll immediately kill your Essence Soul."


    "An Itinerant Immortal like you can be squashed to death with one palm strike of mine!"


    Supremacy Star Destruction completely ignored Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword. His red arms grabbed downwards as they continued their assault on the array formation which protected the Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures.


    As for Qin Yun, he stood in midair as he watched the two gigantic arms strike the array formation''s barrier. His expression could not help but change. "He wants to crack the array to destroy my Essence Soul?"


    Sword immortals could destroy all Dharma with a single sword. Their flying swords were powerful, but their bodies were their biggest weakness!

 558 Great Dao Attained

    Chapter 558: Great Dao Attained


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Whew!"


    The Misty Rain Sword was extremely fast. As misty rain swirled around it, it went straight for Star Destruction''s main body¡ªthe black cloud that spanned more than five thousand kilometers!


    "Do you think you have what it takes?" The face in the massive black cloud let out a rapturous laugh.


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun cast his strongest sword move, and instantly, the Misty Rain Sword''s beam grew to a length of a hundred thousand feet. It was like a meteor that was streaking across the sky.


    It was a burning meteor!


    The Misty Rain Sword plunged into the black cloud and met with potent resistance. However, it still managed to tear through the dark, nebulous body. The blinding sword beam shone brilliantly within the boundless black cloud, leaving a wake of destruction as it kept probing deeper! It even managed to reach the middle where the glowing red face was. It penetrated the entire length of the black cloud and tore out from the other side!


    However, the massive black cloud only trembled; it''s aura did not undergo much of a change.


    "A sword immortal''s flying sword is indeed powerful. You even managed to injure me. However, I have been strengthening my body by consuming stars since I was born. Even if I allowed him free reign to attack me with his flying sword, I''ll be able to last a few days. I''ll definitely win!" Star Destruction was extremely confident after withstanding that single strike.


    "This black cloud body is ethereal and isn''t susceptible to physical force. When my sword slashes at the black cloud, it just disperses and forms again! Even my flying sword can only barely damage him. His body is so massive, he can just withstand my blows for a long time." Qin Yun was unable to determine the exact amount of time, but he could tell that Star Destruction could easily shrug off at least two hours of relentless attacks.


    "I should try other moves."


    The Misty Rain Sword cast various sword moves as it attacked the massive black cloud.


    As for Star Destruction, he continued using his red stony arms that were cultivated through the spirit-devouring art while resisting Qin Yun''s flying sword. His fingers were razor-sharp and they kept slamming down at the array formation''s barriers. Every strike caused the array formation''s barriers to quake and ripple to redirect the impact. However, it was evident that the array formation was on its last legs.


    And in fact, things were getting worse.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Not far away, an island in the sea which had an array flag embedded in it was trembling. The earth around it was rustling as the array flag''s glow turned unstable. Even the array flag itself was swaying. The bright colors of the array flag gradually lost their luster and dimmed.


    There were array disks embedded deep in mountains which trembled with every blow. Fine cracks slowly appeared on the stony peaks.


    "Go!" Ancestral Master Zhang stood in midair as he assumed control of the eight major arrays. His potent Dharmic powers surged into the array formations in a bid to help maintain them. The eight array formations relied on the Heaven and Earth powers for operation, so even a ninth firmament Skyimmortal''s Dharmic powers were insufficient for prolonged operations. The only thing they could do was delay the inevitable.


    "Junior Brother Qin, problems are beginning to arise in the array formations'' operations. I''m currently using my Dharmic powers to maintain the entire array, but it''s not very useful. I can at most last another ten minutes." Ancestral Master Zhang''s voice was anxious.


    Qin Yun did not say a word.


    Both he and Ancestral Master Zhang could control the array formations, so he naturally knew of the array formation''s situation.


    Damage had appeared in many places, to the point that it slowed the absorption of Heaven and Earth powers. Ancestral Master Zhang was just one person, so how long could he last?


    ¡­


    In space, the Arhats and Heavenly generals were watching.


    "In terms of strength, Qin Yun is very close to Star Destruction. However, Star Destruction''s body is too powerful. Qin Yun''s body is that of an Itinerant Immortal''s, so it''s extremely frail. This is also Qin Yun''s biggest weakness. The outcome of this battle has been determined," said a Heavenly general with a shake of his head.


    "Star Destruction is a black cloud born out of the Chaos. It had consumed so many stars and countless lives. Even if Qin Yun''s flying sword is able to injure him again and again, it will take time to accumulate the damage. It will probably take half a month for Star Destruction to maybe die of attrition. Unfortunately, the Great Chang world''s array formation can''t even last an hour, much less speak of half a month."


    "An hour? It''s already about to be overrun."


    "This Qin Yun''s flying sword might not be able to kill the enemy, but it can protect him. It would still be easy for him to escape with some people."


    "Unfortunately, the billions of lives in the Great Chang world will be devoured clean. Qin Yun has still failed to save his homeworld despite risking the tribulations and becoming an Itinerant Immortal. What a pity."


    Everyone spoke their mind.


    When it came to escaping¡­


    The eighteen Arhats and the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths could sacrifice treasures to hold back Star Destruction for a short period of time, allowing Qin Yun and a tiny number of people to flee.


    Qin Yun had chosen not to flee, but to take on his tribulations early, solely to save everyone.


    "Even if he is a sword immortal and with a very powerful flying sword¡­ he''s still weaker than Star Destruction." Yang Jian sighed while watching. Qin Yun was comparable to Star Destruction when it came to the offensive, but he was weaker in every other aspect.


    In the entire Three Realms¡ª


    Many mighty figures were watching the battle across endless space. The experts from the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Heavenly Courts, as well as the Buddhists, dragons, and ancient demons all made judgments.


    Unless something unexpected happened, the outcome was determined!


    The Great Chang world was to be devoured clean!


    Star Destruction''s devouring was unlike the average spirit-devouring lineage cultivator. Not only would he devour the countless lives in it, he would even devour the entire planet!


    ******


    Countless people in the Great Chang world looked up at the massive array formation barrier. They could also see the two gigantic red palms striking down again and again, in a bid to tear through the barrier.


    People were horrified and panicking in the beginning.


    But they gradually got used to it, since the barrier had lasted quite a while.


    "This palm sure is huge. It''s bigger than a mountain. Even the Imperial Capital city is only about the size of its finger, right?" A scion stood at his window with a beauty in his arms as he gazed far into the distance.


    "Young Master, what powerful fiendish demon has such a huge pair of palms?" asked the beauty.


    "Aren''t you afraid?"


    "I was in the beginning, but not now. I believe the various immortals and buddhas will be able to fend off that fiendish demon."


    "I''ve read about records of fiendish demons in books, but I have never seen such a terrifying one before." The scion sighed. "But you are right. There will be immortals and buddhas to hold up the sky even if it crashes."


    "What if they can''t hold it up?" asked the beauty softly.


    The scion''s expression changed slightly. "It has to hold, naturally."


    ¡­


    "Amitabha."


    In Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa Monastery, the monks were all looking up in the sky.


    Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa was also watching this scene. He could see the terrifying palms from a distance away, and he knew that he would be pulverized even if he did go to help out.


    "I hope Sword Immortal Qin and Daoist Divine Firmament can turn the tides of evil," said Bodhisattva Mah¨¡k¨¡?yapa softly.


    Against such a calamity, many of them Bodhisattvas, Skyimmortals, and Skygods were helpless. All they could do was rely on Qin Yun and Ancestral Master Zhang.


    ¡­


    "Senior Sister, if this barrier fails to hold, the world would likely be annihilated. I can''t think of anything else at a time like this. I just want to ask you, are you willing to be my wife? Will you be together with me in life and in death?" A middle-aged Daoist looked at a yellow-robed woman.


    "Junior Brother Fu, you finally said it." The yellow-robed woman''s eyes welled with tears. "I thought you would never ask. Of course."


    "I don''t care even if the entire sect curses me, or the entire world mocks me," said the middle-aged Daoist. He hugged the woman. "If death is the outcome, we shall die together."


    The yellow-robed woman hugged the middle-aged Daoist as well.


    At that moment, all they had in the world was each other.


    ¡­


    While facing a calamity, the billions of lives had various reactions. Some kowtowed and pleaded for immortals and buddhas to protect them. There were people who revelled in pleasures while there were others who went mad and did things they usually did not dare to do. There were also others who faced it calmly, leading their days as they normally would.


    "I have to stop him. I have to figure out an even stronger sword move."


    "An even stronger sword move."


    At that moment, Qin Yun was focused. He controlled his Misty Rain Sword as he attacked the massive black cloud relentlessly. While doing so, he pondered over methods to perfect his sword moves. How could he become stronger?


    Now, his Itinerant Immortal Essence Soul was much stronger than before. Even while attacking with his full strength, his Essence Soul was still able to divert some attention to constantly ponder and infer.


    "My Sword Dao can be divided into Heaven, Earth, and Man."


    "The Heaven and Earth represent the universe and the cosmos. Man represents all living beings."


    "My sword moves might contain the charms of space-time, the extreme void, or paramount emotions¡­ My sword moves which truly fuse Heaven, Earth, and Man have always been imperfect."


    "What am I lacking?"


    As Qin Yun attacked, he pondered.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "The array formation is about to crack!" Ancestral Master Zhang yelled in an urgent voice transmission. "Junior Brother, what do we do?"


    "Pa!"


    The array disks with the largest number of cracks began to shatter.


    The array flags were also tearing apart.


    The colorful barrier in the sky began to hum. Three layers of protections shattered, leaving behind two. The eight array formations combined together only had five layers of protection.


    "Is it about to crack?"


    Qin Yun was somewhat dumbfounded at that moment.


    He had long imagined that this moment would come, but he refused to accept it. He had spared no expense to prevent it.


    Even with his sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation was extremely crude, he had still chosen to bring forward the tribulations. In order to fend off Star Destruction, he was even willing to be an Itinerant Immortal, but he had failed¡­


    "The Great Chang world¡­" At that moment, Qin Yun''s will covered the entire Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures.


    Grand Dominance City!


    Jiang Prefecture! Cloud Prefecture! Yuan Prefecture! Sha Prefecture! Jin Prefecture! Kong Prefecture! Kunlun Prefecture! Lu Prefecture! Snow Prefecture! Nether Prefecture! Lang Prefecture! Qin Prefecture! Shu Prefecture! Po Prefecture! Qian Prefecture! Yue Prefecture! Yi Po Prefecture! Dragon Mountain Prefecture! South Sea Prefecture!


    The Great Chang''s nineteen Prefectures had plains, mountains, forests, deserts and prairies¡­


    Qin Yun had traveled this world in his youth.


    This land contained countless people. They played out the myriad emotions of humans and repeated history. Was the Great Chang world about to be destroyed? Was the world about to be devoured clean?


    "No."


    Qin Yun turned back to look at the vast lands as his eyes welled with tears.


    Qin Yun could not bear to separate from this land which had numerous lives tied to it.


    Suddenly, Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    At that moment, the entire world fell silent. Even the two massive arms that were flailing from the black cloud seemed to turn silent. Countless people, who were looking up at the damaged barrier, had their horrified expressions freeze. Ancestral Master Zhang was still sending urgent voice transmissions! He was urging Qin Yun to make a decision. Were they escaping or not! Yi Xiao''s anxious expression similarly froze.


    Space-time turned still.


    This land that he had entrusted his feelings to, and the countless people appeared in his mind.


    Qin Yun was enlightened!


    This was the Heaven and Earth!


    This was Man!


    This was his Sword Dao! A Sword Dao that belonged to him!


    At that instant, he finally found his Great Dao.


    "Great Dao attained!" Qin Yun beckoned with his hand. The Misty Rain Sword, which was still near the massive black cloud more than a ten thousand kilometers away, instantly tore through the void and appeared in his palm.


    Even though the void had been sealed, the flying sword could still travel through it.


    When it came to people like Perfect Sovereign Yang Jian, they could travel through space-time at a deeper level.

 559 Stunning the Three Realms With A Flying Sword

    Chapter 559: Stunning the Three Realms With A Flying Sword


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun held up a flying sword with his palm as the surface of the flying sword circulated a light but unfathomable misty rain. All its power was converged.


    At that moment, the Great Dao contained within the Intrinsic Flying Sword was also changing.


    An Intrinsic Flying Sword was one with its sword immortal; they were even a part of the sword immortal''s life! The flying sword would naturally also contain the Sword Dao the sword immortal had figured out. Before that, Qin Yun had relied on Connate Wonders, such as the Chaos Pure Gold, to promote his flying sword''s breakthrough. It even formed a Great Dao inside the Misty Rain Sword.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun had attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. The Great Dao he had figured out contained Heaven, Earth, and Man. His foundation was extremely deep and robust. The moment he attained it, it was a Great Dao at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level. It was even superior to the Great Dao that the Misty Rain Sword originally had.


    "Hua!"


    The Great Dao inside the Misty Rain Sword was naturally transforming, and while this process happened, the flying sword''s appearance also changed.


    It became slightly thinner and even seemed to have three shadows concealed within it. Each shadow represented the mysticism of Heaven, Earth, and Man respectively. The flying sword''s strength also increased.


    "Oh?"


    High in the sky, the glowing red face in the massive black cloud suddenly widened. Its two stony red arms which were striking downward suddenly retracted.


    "No good! Escape!" The massive black cloud was alarmed as it desperately flew higher.


    "The surrounding void has been sealed. Even I have to fly slowly, but this Qin Yun''s flying sword was able to forcibly tear through space? To be able to do so, firstly, one''s realm has to be profound enough. One has to figure out a pinnacle Great Dao. Secondly, one''s might has to be sufficiently powerful. Only a small number of pinnacle Ancestral Fiends are capable of that." Star Destruction was panicking.


    Qin Yun had managed to do it.


    Firstly, he had definitely figured out a pinnacle Great Dao.


    Secondly, his flying sword''s might was sufficiently horrifying!


    Either of these two outcomes was enough to leave Star Destruction shuddering.


    "What!?"


    In space, the Buddhists'' eighteen Arhats and the Heavenly Courts'' 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraiths watched in shock.


    Something that could send reverberations through the Three Realms had happened before their very eyes!


    The scene of the flying sword forcibly penetrating the void and appearing in Qin Yun''s palm had left them dumbfounded.


    "He has figured out a pinnacle Great Dao? Furthermore, he did so as a sword immortal?" These Arhats and Heavenly generals were in disbelief.


    There were few mighty figures in the Three Realms to begin with.


    Pinnacle Golden Immortals were even rarer. All of them enjoyed an extremely high stature. Among those, the ones that were adept at combat were particularly extraordinary. For example, Perfected Immortal Erlang, Yang Jian, who cultivated the Eight-Nine Arcane Art was a pinnacle Golden Immortal of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage! He was labeled as the number one combat general of the Heavenly Courts, the strongest combat general of Jade Void Palace!


    As for the monkey from Flowers and Fruit Mountain, he too was a pinnacle Golden Immortal who cultivated the Eight-Nine Arcane Art. Back then, he had nearly overturned the Heavenly Courts.


    As for sword immortals, they were known as being capable of destroying all Dharma with a single sword. Their bodies were weaker, but their offensive strength was even higher. Similarly, they were extremely adept in combat!


    ¡­


    "Why did this happen?" In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Bojia Palace, Patriarch Bojia was astounded by this scene.


    Any existence that figured out a pinnacle Great Dao, especially one that was adept in combat, was an illustrious figure in the Three Realms.


    Although in terms of cultivation speed, Yang Jian and the monkey had become pinnacle Golden Immortals with short cultivation times, and Qin Yun had only become an Itinerant Immortal after cultivating for thousands of years.


    But considering his background¡­ Qin Yun was sufficiently amazing.


    "This Qin Yun was only said to be a half-step Golden Immortal before. Later, he was able to match mighty figures. Now, he has even grasped a pinnacle Great Dao? He''s also a sword immortal?" Bojia''s four faces were distorted, grotesque, deranged, and as for the anterior face, it was filled with rage. "Why did this happen? I paid such an immense price, so much that I threw in the Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk. Why did I still fail?"


    "Qin Yun, it''s all that darn Qin Yun''s fault!" Bojia was infuriated.


    But in fact, the other Tenebrous Fiend Abyss Ancestral Fiends who were monitoring the situation were somewhat astounded.


    "The Daoists have produced another pinnacle Golden Immortal? Furthermore, he''s a sword immortal?"


    Many Ancestral Fiends felt their hearts palpitating. After all, most of them were only at the ordinary Ancestral Fiend level.


    And among them, the strongest few powerhouses were relatively relaxed.


    "Thankfully, despite the Daoists producing an astounding genius¡ªone that has figured out a pinnacle Great Dao and has might no lesser than Yang Jian''s¡ªhe is ultimately an Itinerant Immortal. He will live for about ten thousand years at most¡­ He will eventually be turned to dust by the Heavenly Tribulations."


    "Thankfully, he brought forward his tribulations to save a Small World and ended up an Itinerant Immortal."


    "Speaking of which, Star Destruction can be credited with this. At the very least, he forced Qin Yun to bring forward his tribulation and become an Itinerant Immortal. Exchanging Star Destruction to destroy a peerless sword immortal is worth it!"


    "Yes, it''s worth it. Definitely worth it. He has helped rid us fiends of a huge threat."


    The strongest existences in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss watched this scene with glee.


    Although Star Destruction was also very powerful, all he figured out was an ordinary Great Dao. Even if he relied on his Chaos Godfiend talent and the spirit-devouring art to devour countless beings to accumulate his strength, he was only able to barely produce strength at the pinnacle Ancestral Fiend level.


    But compared to Qin Yun? He was nothing worth mentioning.


    Qin Yun was a sword immortal who had truly figured out a pinnacle Great Dao. Like Yang Jian, he was a god-slaying existence that could shock the Three Realms.


    ¡­


    "A pity. How lamentable."


    If the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s pinnacle Ancestral Fiends were said to be delighted, their opponents were having antithetical reactions.


    Mighty figures from the Magus Gate, dragons, and the ancient demons all shook their heads.


    "Qin Yun has extraordinary talent. He and I were tied by fate too. A pity, a pity¡­" In the Western Paradise, Amita was emitting boundless light. He shook his head at the scene.


    "This junior brother of mine was able to figure out a pinnacle Great Dao, so why did he end up an Itinerant Immortal?" In the Heavenly Courts'' Mount Li, an old granny was watching from afar with a pained heart. She was now the strongest among the Green Touring Palace disciples. A sword immortal at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level had strength that approached a perfected Golden Immortal. He would soon be a peerless expert only second to her in the Green Touring Palace. It was not easy for her to find someone who could aid her, but unfortunately, he had become an Itinerant Immortal.


    Before this¡­


    Qin Yun did not figure out a Great Dao, but he barely figured out a few sword moves at the Golden Immortal level. His strength simply matched that of a mighty figure. So when he became an Itinerant Immortal, it left many mighty figures sighing, but it was nothing major.


    But after Qin Yun grasped a pinnacle Great Dao, it left many experts in the Three Realms sighing very regretfully! This was a major loss!


    "Pinnacle Great Dao?"


    In Green Touring Palace, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was watching this scene. Ever since his eldest disciple converted to Buddhism, he had always been waiting, waiting for a disciple who could inherit his Sword Dao.


    He was rather optimistic about Qin Yun, but it was only optimism.


    But when Qin Yun became a Itinerant Immortal, yet grasped a pinnacle Great Dao¡­


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s eyes lit up. He silently watched his disciple.


    ******


    Qin Yun held the Misty Rain Sword in his palm as he looked up into the sky. The massive black cloud was already frantically escaping.


    "Trying to escape?"


    "You can''t run!"


    Qin Yun looked at Supremacy Star Destruction as though he was a bug struggling in a spider''s web.


    With a gentle flick of his hand¡ª


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword forcibly tore through space and, once again, appeared above the escaping Star Destruction.


    "What?" Star Destruction, who was flying upwards in a bid to get to the cosmos, saw the Misty Rain Sword appear suddenly above him. The tiny flying sword left him feeling fearful.


    He immediately circled around it.


    "Destroy!"


    Qin Yun cried out lightly.


    The Misty Rain Sword swooped down and began its assault.


    Boom!


    The tiny flying sword was able to stir the might of the Heaven and Earth. Tens of thousands of kilometers of the world around it was made to warp, to the point that it assaulted the massive black cloud below it.


    "This¡­" When Star Destruction saw that the Heaven and Earth above him crash down towards him as one, he could not help but be terrified.


    Boom!


    The Heaven and Earth accompanied the flying sword as they pummeled down as a whole.


    The might was absolutely formidable.


    The pinnacle Great Dao which Qin Yun had figured out contained Heaven, Earth, and Man. His grasp over the Heaven, Earth, and space-time was extremely high. Now, he was taking control of all the Heaven and Earth powers in the region to deal a fatal blow! Ordinary experts would borrow the Heaven and Earth powers in their battles, but Qin Yun directly controlled the Heaven and Earth for tens of thousands of kilometers out. He had assumed immediate control over a third of all the Great Chang world''s Heaven and Earth powers.


    If he wasn''t afraid that he would affect the countless mortals and the oceans, he was fully capable of controlling an even wider region.


    "Boom!!!"


    It felt like a collision of planets.


    And Star Destruction was clearly the weaker one. He brandished his red arms with full might in a bid to fend the attack off, but they were repelled. The black cloud began dissipating due to the assaults.


    By the time Qin Yun dispelled the boundless Heaven and Earth powers, the black cloud was already completely gone. All that was left was the red glow hiding behind the two arms.


    With the terrifying strike that contained the might of the Heaven and Earth, more than 90% of Star Destruction''s body had been destroyed.


    "Spare me! Spare me." Star Destruction pleaded.


    "Spare you?"


    Qin Yun walked out from the space he tore through. The Misty Rain Sword floated by his side as he looked at the blob of red light that continued spanning hundreds of kilometers.


    "Why should I spare your life?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I have two Connate Numinous treasures. I''m willing to give them to you, Sword Immortal Qin." The red glow''s face said fawningly, "I also have other treasures that I''m willing to give to you."


    "Those will all be mine if I kill you anyway."


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    The face amid the red glow turned flustered as it added, "I also know of a huge secret. The secret of your Great Chang world! Aren''t you curious why Patriarch Bojia keeps attempting to occupy your Great Chang world?"


    "My Great Chang world''s secret?" Qin Yun''s heart tightened as he pressed, "What''s the secret?"


    "Shut up! Shut up!"


    A voice transmission boomed in Star Destruction''s mind. "Star Destruction, have you forgotten that we signed a Mental Demon pact? You have to keep it a secret."


    "I''m about to die. Why would I care about any Mental Demon pact?" The red glow''s face roared angrily in return as his angry bellow resounded in the void. "Furthermore, Qin Yun has already grasped a pinnacle Great Dao. Bojia, are you still entertaining the empty hopes of occupying the Great Chang world?"


    Qin Yun flicked his sleeve.


    The surrounding space was isolated, blocking even karmic communications. Patriarch Bojia no longer had any means to send a voice transmission.


    "Tell me, what''s the Great Chang world''s secret?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you have to swear on your Dao Heart to send me back to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss," the face said. "As long as you make that vow, I''ll tell you the secret. I will not say it if you do not vow."


    "Vow on my Dao heart?"


    Qin Yun snorted coldly.


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a blurry sword beam as it instantly penetrated the red glow and tore out from the other side. It left a misty rain in its wake that constantly eroded red glow away.


    The red glow''s face flailed its gigantic arms in a bid to defend itself, but it failed.


    "No! No¡ª"


    Shoo!


    The Misty Rain Sword returned and penetrated it again.


    This took time to describe but in reality, the Misty Rain Sword tore through the red glow which spanned hundreds of kilometers repeatedly. Soon, the red glow was completely wiped out, leaving behind its remnant items. The red stony arms were also left behind.


    Qin Yun felt somewhat wistful. Despite grasping a pinnacle Great Dao, he still needed to power his Intrinsic Flying Sword thrice to kill Star Destruction. He was indeed a tough opponent.


    "Your survival poses too great a danger for the Three Realms. A secret isn''t worth your life. As for the Great Chang world''s secret, I can eventually find it out for myself." Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. Star Destruction had harmed countless; if he did not kill him this time, he would hide in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss for ten thousand years. After Qin Yun perished from the Itinerant Immortal''s tribulations, Star Destruction would be able to appear again to wreak havoc.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Suddenly, the Great Chang world was bathed in golden light. Even the cosmos was bathed in golden light.


    The Arhats and Heavenly generals were astounded. Even the Howling Celestial Dog could not help but exclaim, "The Heavens are bestowing merit? How much merit is there that it causes such a huge stir?"


    Yang Jian looked down and said, "In terms of sin, Star Destruction is probably ranked in the top five of the Three Realms. Killing him naturally results in boundless merit!"


    Meanwhile, in the Great Chang world.


    In midair.


    Qin Yun stood there as the boundless merit gathered on him, covering his body with a golden aura.

 560 Meri

    Chapter 560: Merit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at the scene before him and said softly, "I have cultivated for several millennia, and all the merit I have earned previously is only a percent or two of what I''m now facing."


    The main reason was that the Qin Yun was not the only one involved in killing those with graver sins such as Fiend King Zhuhou and Fiend Supremacy Black Wing. He was responsible for restraining them. The capturing and killing was done by the Heavenly troops. If not, he would have long obtained a Merit Gilded Glow.


    "Whoosh~"


    The merit was so boundless it appeared like a rainstorm or the sea.


    If he was an ordinary Skyimmortal or Bodhisattva, all he could do was receive the immense merit.


    And now, having grasped a pinnacle Great Dao, Qin Yun''s control over space-time, karma, and merit was extremely powerful. He had a deeper understanding of the universe''s space-time and Samsara''s karma. Thinking back to how Amita once reincarnated Qin Yun''s soul into another world for the dream of a hundred years, he could now do it himself if he wanted to.


    "I have already undergone the tribulations, turning into an Itinerant Immortal! No matter how much merit I have, there''s no way to reverse the effects of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. In that case¡­" Qin Yun extended his hand as the three-inch flying sword appeared above his palm. It was none other than the Intrinsic Flying Sword. "Go on in!"


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Immediately, all the merit surging towards him was easily diverted, injecting itself into the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Hum!"


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword kept absorbing the merit like a bottomless hole. Slowly, it also began transforming.


    "Oh?"


    The Arhats and Heavenly generals above were astonished by this scene.


    "What, he injected the merit into his flying sword?"


    "He has become an Itinerant Immortal. He is already committed to suffering a tribulation every thousand years. Each tribulation will be stronger than the last. The Itinerant Immortal tribulations are different from ordinary Heavenly Tribulations. Merit does not weaken it at all. By injecting the merit into his Connate Numinous treasure flying sword, it can increase his flying sword''s might and his own strength. It would also give him greater confidence in surviving the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. This is quite a solution."


    "Earning Merit Gilded Glow isn''t difficult, but to produce a Merit Numinous treasure? That is many times more difficult."


    "There are some Buddhas and Golden Immortals who travel the Three Realms and accumulate merit to gain Merit Gilded Glow, but how many Merit Numinous treasures are there?"


    "He is the one who killed Star Destruction! Star Destruction probably had greater sin than all the sixteen Fiend Kings of the spirit-devouring lineage combined! Ten or so ordinary Ancestral Fiends¡­ combined together probably have less sin than Star Destruction! From my point of view, the merit earned from killing Star Destruction is enough to refine one Merit Numinous treasure."


    All of them engaged in a flurry of discussion above, but in fact, all of them felt envious. None of them had Merit Numinous treasures.


    And below them.


    Qin Yun watched the Intrinsic Flying Sword in his hand transform as he felt the changes it underwent.


    As the merit poured into it, there was finally a qualitative change.


    Hum!


    The Misty Rain Sword trembled gently as it hummed. Even the sword itself began to emit Merit Gilded Glow.


    "Connate Merit Numinous treasure, done!" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Merit Numinous treasures gained immense light shone down from providence.


    With a Merit Numinous treasure, he would be augmented by the light from providence, and be beloved by the Heaven and Earth. While using a Merit Numinous treasure, help would be provided by the world itself! He would be able to draw upon even greater amounts of the Heaven and Earth powers. He might have only been able to use ten percent of the Heaven and Earth powers in the beginning, but he could now use thirty to forty percent thanks to his Merit Numinous treasure. Its might naturally increased exponentially. The number of Merit Numinous treasures were also far fewer than Connate Numinous treasures. They were also a lot more precious.


    "Eh? He''s still injecting more merit after his flying sword became a Merit Numinous treasure? Isn''t that a waste?"


    "He could have infused it into a second treasure such as the Great Yin Disk or Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain."


    "It''s already a Merit Numinous treasure. Injecting more merit only improves it nominally."


    The various Arhats and Heavenly generals could not help but comment.


    Moments later.


    The golden glow that was shining over the world dissipated.


    Qin Yun looked at the three-inch flying sword in his hand in satisfaction.


    This was his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Most of his capabilities stemmed from it. He naturally needed to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword as much as possible!


    "The amount of merit received from killing Star Destruction is so immense that just half of it is enough to convert my Intrinsic Flying Sword to a Connate Merit Numinous treasure. It has increased the flying sword''s strength severalfold. The remaining half was also injected into the Intrinsic Flying Sword, but the increase in strength is much lower. It only strengthened it by ten percent," thought Qin Yun. "However, my ability to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations in the future will rely on my Intrinsic Flying Sword! Therefore, the stronger my flying sword, the better."


    Following that, the flying sword fused into his body, allowing his Essence Soul to continue nurturing it.


    "Whoosh."


    A bunch of treasures flew from afar to Qin Yun''s side.


    They were the the things Star Destruction used to own. The pair of red stony arms, the Connate Numinous treasures, the Great Yin Disk and the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain, as well as other items. These treasures made several Arhats and Heavenly generals envious. After all, most of them did not even have one Connate Numinous treasure.


    However, even though a few great demons among the Heavenly generals had greedy thoughts, none of them dared to try and snatch them from Qin Yun.


    Who would dare offend a peerless sword immortal like Qin Yun?


    If they were weak, obtaining a Connate Numinous treasure would only attract tragedy. And Qin Yun''s strength made it such that no one would dare have any thoughts on his treasures even if he possessed more than ten times the treasures than he had now.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun waved his hands and stored away the treasures before taking a step towards the cosmos.


    ¡­


    In space, the Arhats and Heavenly generals went forward to congratulate Qin Yun when they saw him arrive in the space outside the Small World.


    "Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin, for your attainment of a Golden Immortal Dao fruit and for slaying Star Destruction."


    "Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin for grasping a pinnacle Great Dao."


    There was a swath of well-wishes.


    Qin Yun surveyed his surroundings and immediately said, "I thank all of you for coming to save my Great Chang world."


    "We did not help at all."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, it was all you when it came to killing the enemy."


    Every one of them was very polite.


    Soon, everyone made way for Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian. Beside him was the black dog.


    "All of you can return." Yang Jian turned around and instructed.


    The various Arhats and Heavenly generals bowed smilingly. Following that, they triggered the distant Heavenly realm''s powers and departed to their respective Western Paradise Mt. Numinous and the Heavenly Courts.


    "Qin Yun." Yang Jian went forward.


    "Perfect Sovereign, I''m sorry I ignored your goodwill." Qin Yun bowed.


    Yang Jian looked at Qin Yun. "If you had listened to me and given up the Great Chang world by escaping early, you would have more time for cultivation. You would similarly have been able to figure out a pinnacle Great Dao and create your own sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation, or even a Golden Immortal sword immortal Dharmic formulation¡­ The creation of a new lineage is a huge accomplishment, making it not impossible for you to become a overlord of a Great World. And now, you have been reduced to an Itinerant Immortal who can''t live for more than ten thousand years. Do you regret it?"


    Qin Yun looked down.


    He looked at all life in the Great Chang world, with countless people rejoicing over their survival of the calamity.


    Upon seeing this scene, Qin Yun smiled. "If I escaped, that would have been my biggest regret in life. Now, all I feel is joy."


    Yang Jian nodded and smiled faintly.


    By the side, the Howling Celestial Dog was alarmed.


    Its owner had always been a loner. He would even ignore the Jade Emperor at times; yet, he viewed Qin Yun in a different light?


    "Quickly improve your Essence Soul. You only have ten thousand plus years of cultivation time," said Yang Jian before turning to leave.


    Qin Yun watched as Yang Jian left with the Howling Celestial Dog. Without a word, he returned to the Great Chang world.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world.


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Ancestral Master Zhang were in midair as they looked down at the world. There were celebrations happening everywhere.


    The villages were beating gongs and sounding drums, singing and laughing. Children were running everywhere. There was a joyous vibe in the cities as well. The rich scions were throwing bronze coins on the streets, causing countless people to rush to grab the money. The cultivation sects had taken out their immortal brews as they drank happily and held celebrations for the survival of the calamity.


    "From this moment forth, my Great Chang world will not need to worry." Ancestral Master Zhang laughed out heartily when he saw all of this. He turned toward Qin Yun. "Countless people in the Great Chang world are thanking you. However, they will likely not know who it was that saved the Great Chang world. Only a number of cultivators know the truth."


    "Why be concerned about that?" said Qin Yun casually. "All I know is that I''m feeling joy now."


    Ancestral Master Zhang was taken aback as he immediately laughed as well. "Yes, joy. Immense joy."


    As he laughed loudly, Ancestral Master Zhang departed.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao returned to Grand Dominance City and came to a familiar Youpo Noodles store.


    "Come on, let''s go in and eat some Youpo Noodles," said Qin Yun.


    "You have full say today." Yi Xiao followed Qin Yun in while smiling.


    The store was bustling with activity.


    "That great fiendish demon''s hand was bigger than the biggest mountain I have ever seen. Its arm was like a pillar of the heavens. How big was its main body?"


    "Well, didn''t it still get destroyed by immortals and buddhas?"


    "Who said that it was definitely destroyed? Perhaps it was subdued and is now a guardian for an immortal or buddha abode."


    The customers were all talking about the calamity.


    The moment Qin Yun and his wife entered, the store assistant came forward to welcome them. He smiled and said, "Customer, feel free to order what you want. My boss has said that it''s his treat today."


    "Alright. I''ll be thanking your boss. Give me a bowl of Youpo Noodles," said Qin Yun with a smile. "And give me a basket of meat buns."


    "Give me a bowl of Clear Soup Noodles," said Yi Xiao.


    The couple sat down.


    As they ate, they listened to the customers lavishing praises while listening to the joyous laughter of children running around outside.


    "How delicious." Qin Yun slurped down half the bowl of Youpo Noodles and finished a meat bun in two bites. He was in a great mood.


    Yi Xiao sat by the side, watching her husband smilingly.


    "Disciple, quickly come see me." A voice resounded in Qin Yun''s ears.


    "Master." Qin Yun was astonished.

 561 Meeting the Dao Ancestor

    Chapter 561: Meeting the Dao Ancestor


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace.


    "Senior Brother Qin."


    "Greetings, Senior Brother Qin."


    "Congratulations, Senior Brother Qin."


    As Qin Yun walked through Green Touring Palace, he met many Green Touring Palace disciples who greeted him respectfully and humbly. Many of them did not even dare say too much. As they knew that Qin Yun had become an Itinerant Immortal¡­ they were afraid of crossing and infuriating him.


    Green Touring Palace had a rule.


    The Dao was without precedence; the accomplished came first!


    Disciples at the Skyimmortal level would uniformly address those with Golden Immortal Dao fruits as senior brothers and sisters!


    If they were strongest among all the disciples, they were the eldest senior brother or eldest senior sister!


    Therefore, even though Qin Yun was very young and had only been recently recruited into the Green Touring Palace, several Golden Immortal disciples had to address him as Senior Brother Qin! This was because Qin Yun had gained insights into a pinnacle Great Dao! Even Golden Immortal disciples that were his equal numbered fewer than twenty¡­ In terms of offensive strength, as a sword immortal, Qin Yun was definitely ranked in the top few in Green Touring Palace.


    "This Senior Brother Qin of ours sure is impressive. How long has he cultivated? Yet, he managed to figure out a pinnacle Great Dao! What a pity that he has become an Itinerant Immortal."


    "Senior Brother Qin is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve. He was willing to sever his cultivation path for those mortals. I wouldn''t be able to do that if I were in his shoes."


    "That''s why Senior Brother Qin has what it takes to be famous in the Three Realms, while you are just a mere Skyimmortal."


    "By the way, according to Master''s rules, as long as one attains a Golden Immortal Dao fruit¡­ Master will bestow them with a gift! It''s very common to gift a Connate Numinous treasure. However, Senior Brother Qin is someone who attained a pinnacle Great Dao. What do you think Master will give him?"


    "It would be normal to gift him two or three Connate Numinous treasures."


    "It''s hard to say. Senior Brother Qin is an Itinerant Immortal. In slightly more than ten thousand years, he might¡­ It wouldn''t be very useful to bestow him with too much."


    Everyone was discussing in whispers.


    Meanwhile, Qin Yun had arrived outside Green Touring Palace''s main palace.


    "Senior Brother Qin," the Dao Child outside received him with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded and immediately walked in.


    ¡­


    The main palace was vast like the starry cosmos. There was no end in sight.


    A black-haired elder sat cross-legged on a floating cloud. He opened his eyes as he looked at Qin Yun with a conflicted expression. He could not help but shake his head gently. "Mortal children."


    "Master." Qin Yun was slightly taken aback.


    "I have been waiting all this while," said the black-haired elder. "I was waiting for a successor to inherit my Sword Dao. Your Eldest Senior Brother, Myriad Treasures, had cultivated in the Sword Dao and created the Five Elemental Sword Sutra. He had even presided over my Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array in the past¡­ but he has long abandoned the Sword Dao and become a Buddhist. After all this years of waiting, I have finally awaited a successor, but you have ended up becoming an Itinerant Immortal."


    "Master, I''m sorry I disappointed you," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "It''s not your fault. If not for your temperament, you might not have attained such a Sword Dao," said the black-haired elder. "However, as an Itinerant Immortal, your greatest calamity will be the twelfth tribulation for Itinerant Immortals about ten thousand years from now."


    Qin Yun nodded and immediately asked, "Master, do you have any means that could help an Itinerant Immortal survive the twelfth tribulation?"


    Since he had become an Itinerant Immortal¡­


    Qin Yun naturally wanted to give it a try. He wanted to know if he could survive the twelfth tribulation for Itinerant Immortals.


    "Before the Chaos developed, there was a Chaos Godfiend, Ze. He had attempted the path of the Itinerant Immortal. He was not alone. The reason is none other than that the Essence Souls of Itinerant Immortals can constantly be raised without their bodies! Ze was the strongest among them. He cultivated to the perfected Great Dao realm, and he was the only one who had encountered the twelfth tribulation for Itinerant Immortals," said the black-haired elder. "He failed to transcend it. When the Itinerant Immortal tribulation came, he immediately chose to self-destruct and undergo reincarnation. However, the Itinerant Immortal tribulation was too potent. It damaged the his soul down to its foundation, causing him to lose all his memories. There were no humans back then, so he reincarnated into a demon. He became the first sage of the ancient demons, Bai Ze. When the ancient demonic Heavenly Courts was toppled, he only had pinnacle Sagedemon strength, but now, he has re-cultivated to the perfected Sagedemon level. He protects many ancient demons."


    "Demon Emperor Bai Ze?" Qin Yun was enlightened.


    He only knew that a Chaos Godfiend had attempted to transcend the twelfth tribulation for Itinerant Immortals, but he had no idea who it was.


    It was news to Qin Yun that Demon Emperor Bai Ze, who was the supreme leader of the remnant ancient demons, was actually the reincarnation of the Chaos Godfiend, Ze.


    "He failed midway through the twelfth tribulation," said the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "Therefore, judging from his experience, your Sword Dao has to reach the perfected Golden Immortal realm if you wish to transcend the twelfth tribulation."


    "Secondly, it''s best you nurture your Intrinsic Flying Sword as best as you can. Nurture it until it becomes a Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, and perhaps, you will have a thirty percent chance of transcending the twelfth tribulation."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Connate Cardinal treasure¡­


    It represented the highest grade of Connate Numinous treasures. For instance, the legendary and famous Immortal Vanquishing Sword, Empyrean Seal, and the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads were Connate Cardinal treasures.


    "You made a very smart choice when you infused the merit into your flying sword. The more merit it has, the stronger your flying sword will be. It will also give you greater hopes of transcending the tribulations," said the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "I understand. However, all I have is a short ten thousand years to reach the perfected Golden Immortal realm. I even have to nurture an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure," said Qin Yun. "It will truly be difficult."


    "Your Sword Dao foundations are extremely firm. It contains the three elements of Heaven, Earth, and Man," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "You still have some hopes of attaining a perfect Great Dao."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Yes.


    Those who attained Golden Immortal Dao fruits but had figured out the Great Dao of Fire or Decimation Great Dao, they would find it difficult to become pinnacle Golden Immortals! As for becoming a perfected Golden Immortal? It was only theoretically possible.


    In contrast, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao foundations were extremely profound and robust. It was a pinnacle Great Dao upon formation! Once he figured out each of the Heaven, Earth and Man aspects, fusing them together would make it perfect!


    "Master, is there a thirteenth tribulation for Itinerant Immortals?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "That is unknown."


    The Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor smiled. "For now, you should think about overcoming the twelfth tribulation first."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded slightly and did not think further.


    "You have to first enhance your Essence Soul. Raise it to the pinnacle Golden Immortal level. When it is as such, your cultivation speed with be tens of times faster than it presently is," said the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "Later, you will immediately enter seclusion in the Immortal Vanquishing Hall! Ponder over the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array well. How much you figure out will depend on you. During your seclusion, you can also think about the treasure you want."


    "Anyone who attains a Golden Immortal Dao fruit will be bestowed treasures by me. Tell me what exactly you want after you exit seclusion."


    Qin Yun was placed in a dilemma.


    "What? Are you afraid you will be unable to enter your homeworld once your Essence Soul is enhanced?" asked the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "No." Qin Yun shook his head. "A powerful Essence Soul allows for quicker cultivation. I have to fight for that sliver of hope, so I naturally have to enhance my Essence Soul. However, before I do so, I have something I wish to do."


    "Oh?" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at him.


    "I plan on wiping out the numerous fiendish nests in the dominions of the Three Realms," said Qin Yun. "Later, I''ll enhance my Essence Soul before heading to the Immortal Vanquishing Hall for seclusion."


    "Wipe out the fiends'' lairs?"


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was astonished as he looked at Qin Yun. "Disciple, the fiends have gone to great efforts to set up lairs in many dominions. Now, your strength allows you to tear through all those lairs located in Small Worlds. You will indeed bring benefits to numerous dominions. It''s something of great merit; however, by destroying the fiendish setups in numerous dominions¡­ Killing Star Destruction does not affect the fiends too adversely, but if you destroy their lairs across many dominions, the fiends would probably hate you to the bone. You have to think through things carefully!"


    Qin Yun said respectfully, "I will naturally make arrangements for my family before I do all of that. As for myself?"


    "The goal of my cultivation is happiness. I wish to have a clear conscience!"


    "If I am able to destroy the numerous fiendish nests in the various dominions, wreaking havoc on the long term plans of the fiends, I will eradicate misery for trillions of lives in the Three Realms. I feel that even if I were to die immediately, my entire life would be worth it!"


    "Other cultivators who have gained insight into a pinnacle Great Dao would have their Dharmic powers halt at the pinnacle Skyimmortal level. Their strength would be on par with Star Destruction, making it difficult for them to wipe out the numerous fiendish nests."


    "As for me, not only have I figured out a pinnacle Great Dao, but I am also a sword immortal. I wield an Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure¡­ This gives me the confidence to say that I can destroy the fiendish nests! Since I have that strength, I should do it."


    "Furthermore¡­"


    "I understand that attaining a perfected Great Dao in a short ten thousand years is an extremely difficult endeavor. The chances of transcending the tribulations of Itinerant Immortals are even slimmer," said Qin Yun earnestly. "Compared to living ignobly for ten thousand years, I might as well live through these next ten thousand years in happiness. If I can do this, no matter how much time passes, the fiends will remember my name. The Three Realms will probably forever remember the name Qin Yun."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at his disciple and could sense the keenness that was rooted in him.


    As a sword of judgment, he was slaying all that was unjust!


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s eyes lit up.


    "Good!" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure gave a cry of approbation. Following that, he extended his hand and a sheathed divine sword appeared in it. The sword sheath''s was deep green in color. It had lotus leaves and flowers patterns as it effused an aura of boundless vitality.


    "This is the first Connate Numinous treasure I received. Before the Chaos developed, I had relied on this to reign supreme." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure caressed the divine sword. "It is also my most beloved divine sword. It is also a Connate Cardinal treasure named the Qingping Sword. I''ll temporarily lend it to you from today forth. You can return it to me in about ten thousand years."

 562 Preparations

    Chapter 562: Preparations


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was delightfully surprised as he reverently received the sword. "Thank you, Master!"


    Connate Cardinal treasures were extremely rare in the Three Realms. Many of the perfected Golden Immortals were invincible in their own fiefs before the Chaos developed. Back then, they were on par with Goddess N¨¹wa and the Three Pure Ones. They were absolute hegemons! Later, the Three Pure Ones, Goddess N¨¹wa, and the Buddhist Ancestor managed to attain a higher realm.


    However, these older guys refused to bow their heads. At the very least, they showed no fear towards the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor in Great Worlds. Therefore, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation cultivated an avatar, Perfected Primordial Unity, and became a disciple of Primordial Beginning. It was a very rare occurrence in the Three Realms.


    As they refused to bow their heads, many of them lacked Connate Cardinal treasures.


    In contrast, it was people like Guangchengzi, Daoist Myriad Treasure, as well as Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, who managed to obtain Connate Cardinal treasures because of their masters.


    But even so, even someone as lofty as the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had very few Connate Cardinal treasures on hand. Therefore, he made it a point to say that he was only lending the Qingping Sword to Qin Yun. Qingping Sword knew he had only grasped a pinnacle Great Dao. There were slightly more than ten people in the Green Touring Palace who had attained the same realm. It was probably because he was adept in the Sword Dao and that he was a Itinerant Immortal that he gained the pity and favor of his master. His master was also probably impressed at Qin Yun''s determination to wipe out the fiends'' lairs.


    "Keep the Qingping Sword by your side all the time and slowly study and experience it," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "It will definitely be very a useful tool as you gain insights into the two Daos of Heaven and Earth."


    "I will definitely keep it by my side and experience the Dao of Heaven and Earth."


    With the Qingping Sword in hand, he could sense it just by infusing a tiny bit of his Dharmic powers.


    The Qingping Sword¡­


    It contained the evolution of a Chaos world, where Heaven and Earth had been split. It also held endless vibrancy in it.


    This was no ordinary sword, but a Great World which did not truly develop. The foundation was immense, and if one was willing to give it up, there was a chance that the Qingping Sword would actually transform into a Great World.


    "I''ve heard that the Connate Cardinal treasure, the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads, eventually transformed into the Buddhists'' twenty-four heavens. Daoist Burning Lamp had used the twenty-four heavens to attain a perfected Great Dao before becoming the Buddhists'' D¨©pankara Buddha. And similarly, Master''s Qingping Sword has the same chances of becoming a Great World," thought Qin Yun. Every Connate Cardinal treasure contained endless possibilities. Perfected Golden Immortals all yearned for one.


    "Disciple, although it it said that one''s family will not be implicated in the strife among mighty figures, there are exceptions. Those Ancestral Fiends are all mighty figures and value their statures greatly. If you were to wipe out the numerous lairs of the fiends, it is hard to tell if any one of them will be irreversibly infuriated by your crossing of the fiends. They might completely throw out decorum and attack your family." As the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure spoke, he flipped his hand and took out three lotus seeds. "Have your wife and two children eat these three lotus seeds."


    Qin Yun was delighted. "Thank you, Master."


    He had his own arrangements.


    In fact, when it came to strifes in the Three Realms¡­


    Mighty figures had extraordinary statures. They naturally thought highly of face. Killing an opposing mighty figure was a display of ability! But to kill a mighty figure''s family? That would be something beneath them! They would be mocked all over the Three Realms!


    Besides, if you killed the weak loved one of an opponent, wouldn''t the opponent kill one of your own? Who didn''t have a few disciples? Who didn''t have juniors they thought highly of? Mighty figures who had zero attachments were far and few between.


    Therefore, not attacking the weak loved ones of others was a bottom line!


    However, this bottom line could be violated under special circumstances!


    For example, if the conflict was already at an internecine stage? Or if one had truly turned deranged?


    "If there''s nothing else, you may leave," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "Master, I still have one more thing."


    "Oh?" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was surprised.


    Qin Yun said politely, "My homeworld, the Great Chang world, has been invaded a few times now in a bid to occupy it! We have long suspected that the Great Chang world has a secret which causes the fiends to spare no expense in their attacks. Before Star Destruction died, he pleaded for mercy in exchange for the Great Chang world''s secret. However, I still killed him. I''m very curious as to what secret the Great Chang world has, but I have not been able to find anything despite searching through it numerous times."


    "I''ve long investigated. However, a Small World is restricted to me in many ways. Even I can''t see through it. This will require you to scrutinize carefully."


    Qin Yun was enlightened. "Yes, I understand. I bid you farewell, Master."


    "Okay." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded slightly.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    In Bojia Palace, Patriarch Bojia was sitting atop his throne. He had a calm expression, but his other three faces were either looking conflicted, furious, or deranged.


    "I paid the price of a Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, yet the operation failed." Bojia whispered. "Darn you Qin Yun. Your rise to prominence sure is fast."


    "That idiot Star Destruction. He even risked the secret of the Great Chang world in exchange for his life. But since Qin Yun killed him, he likely isn''t aware of the Great Chang world''s secret." Patriarch Bojia''s eyes were filled with coldness. One of his eight arms lifted up a golden cup to imbibe a pale green alcohol. "It''s only about ten thousand years. I have sufficient patience to wait. In ten thousand years, Qin Yun will have turned to dust due to being an Itinerant Immortal. I have the patience to wait a million years or even ten million years."


    "I can only hope that Qin Yun and the rest will not discover the secret," Bojia thought to himself.


    That was all he could do at present.


    "Oh?" Bojia suddenly looked ahead.


    A shadow gradually materialized in front of him in the middle of the hall. It was a lanky figure draped in red robes. It had blood-colored brows and a keen gaze. Standing there was none other than Patriarch Spirit Devouring, Daoist Wen.


    "Brother Spirit Devouring," said Patriarch Bojia with a smile immediately.


    "Star Destruction is dead." Daoist Wen''s eyes were cold. "He was the disciple I thought highest of. He died because of you."


    Bojia smiled sycophantly. "Brother Spirit Devouring, this isn''t my fault. Who would have guessed that Qin Yun would suddenly gain insights into a pinnacle Great Dao? Who would have imagined that Star Destruction would die inside a Small World? I even lost a Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, in the battle."


    "Star Destruction was a Chaos Godfiend. He was born to have the ability to devour stars to strengthen his body. He is most suited to the spirit-devouring lineage," said Daoist Wen coldly. "He stayed in the Skyfiend realm to devour lives and enhance his entire body to the level of his spirit-devouring arms."


    "Is that even possible?" said Bojia in shock.


    "My spirit-devouring lineage is only able to cultivate a particular part of the body to an indestructible state. I have always been racking my brains think of a solution to cultivating the entire body. And Star Destruction''s talent as a Chaos Godfiend gave me hope." Daoist Wen looked at Bojia. "I have always been helping him in secret, but a fool like you caused his death."


    Even at the level of a perfected Ancestral Fiend, he still pursued greater strength. He even aimed to reach the level of the Dao Ancestors or Fiend Ancestor.


    "Brother Spirit Devouring, who would have imagined that Star Destruction would perish in a Small World?" said Bojia nervously. "Besides, Qin Yun''s potential is above Star Destruction''s. By forcing him to bring forward his tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal, something good happened for all of us fiends."


    Daoist Wen''e eyes were ice-cold. "Fine. I shall not harp on this matter, but I have a question. What is the Great Chang world''s secret?"


    "Didn''t I say that it was because of Qin Yun''s flying sword?" said Bojia immediately.


    Daoist Wen looked at him, but did not continue. His body dissipated as he departed.


    Bojia heaved a sigh of relief.


    "You want me to tell you the Great Chang world''s secret for nothing?" Bojia sneered. "I have plenty of patience. I can wait hundreds of thousands of years. Once the opportunity comes, I''ll take the Stellar Stone for myself in one fell swoop."


    He was willing to lose decorum with Patriarch Spirit Devouring for the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone.


    He was naturally not going to reveal the truth.


    As for Empyrean Lord Kuifu, he was naturally to be impounded and not come into contact with anyone.


    ******


    Great Chang world. Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun stood on the mirror lake''s banks with the Qingping Sword on his back. Carrying the Connate Cardinal treasure felt like he was carrying a massive Great World. However, he did not feel any pressure. It accentuated Qin Yun''s sensation of the mystical changes that the Heaven and Earth underwent. With its help, his insights of the Dao of Heaven and Earth were accelerated quite significantly.


    "Open!"


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Two wisps of Sword Qi flew out and tore through the void as they descended in the distant Effulgent Great World.


    In the Effulgent Great World.


    Qin Yiyi and Han Lin were sitting in a boat. They were eating fish and drinking while counting the treasures they had in front of them.


    "He was a Skyfiend, after all. Why is he so poor?" Qin Yiyi grabbed a Cosmic Bag and poured out some of the Dharma treasures. She was quite displeased.


    "He was an ordinary Skyfiend, after all. He couldn''t even withstand three strikes of mine. With him being so weak, how can he have any powerful treasures?" said Han Lin with a smile. He was pretty talented in the Han family and although he was only a second firmament Skyimmortal, he was able to fight above his level and cross swords with a fourth firmament Skyimmortal.


    "Whatever." Qin Yiyi began putting away the treasures. She picked up her chopsticks to begin eating the fish. "This fish is really not bad."


    At that moment¡ª


    Sword Qi descended from the distant space and swept both Qin Yiyi and Han Lin up. Following that, they vanished, leaving the boat filled with delicacies and fine wine floating on the lake.


    ¡­


    On the other end of the Effulgent Great World.


    "Junior Brother. You have to learn more from me when out adventuring." Two streams of light were flying in midair. An elder was sitting on an azure-colored calabash while the other was flying on a flying sword. The latter was none other than Meng Huan.


    Meng Huan had only recently transcended the tribulations to become a Skyimmortal. While still a first firmament Skyimmortal, he had gone out adventuring with his senior brother.


    At that moment, Sword Qi came to this void and encircled Meng Huan, sweeping him away.


    "I''m telling you. Some demons are really not to be believed¡ª" The elder was taken aback as he stopped mid sentence. Meng Huan had vanished from his side.


    "Junior Brother Meng! Junior Brother Meng!" The elder stood up immediately. He looked in every direction and turned flustered. "Where is he? Why did he suddenly vanish?"


    He was a fifth firmament Skyimmortal after all. He enjoyed a high standing in his sect, but his junior brother had vanished under his nose without him even realizing it?


    "What do I do? According to Master''s orders, that Sword Immortal Qin has strength that comes close to Third Prince and Perfect Sovereign Erlang. God forbid anything should happen to his son under my watch. If something happened, I''ll be in big trouble!" The elder panicked as he immediately contacted the sect.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance Qin Manor. Beside the mirror lake.


    Qin Yiyi and Han Lin appeared out of thin air.


    Meng Huan also appeared.


    The three of them looked at each other in befuddlement. Qin Yiyi and Han Lin did not know Meng Huan, and Meng Huan did not know them either.


    However, they all saw a single person.


    The person carried a dark green sword. He stood there like a divine sword that came from tearing apart the Heaven and Earth. Qin Yun''s aura was fused with the Qingping Sword''s. It left Qin Yiyi, Han Lin, and Meng Huan stifled.


    "Dad!"


    "Dad!"


    Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan shouted out in unison before they looked at each other instantly.

 563 Tearing Open the Heavens!

    Chapter 563: Tearing Open the Heavens!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Meng Huan looked at Qin Yiyi and immediately made a guess. "She must be Dad''s and Eldest Mom''s daughter?"


    Back when Qin Yun lived in the Jade Tripod Sect with Yi Xiao, he had briefly mentioned his daughter, Qin Yiyi.


    "Who is he?" Qin Yiyi looked at Meng Huan feeling puzzled. "Am I not the only child of Dad and Mom? Why do I have a sibling? Did Dad have an affair behind my mother''s back and end up with this son?"


    "Yiyi," said Qin Yun.


    "Dad," replied Qin Yiyi obediently.


    "He is your elder brother, Meng Huan."


    "Dad, you have never mentioned that I have a brother," said Qin Yiyi. She had a knot in her heart. After all, she always believed that she was her parents'' only child. Yet, a brother had suddenly appeared in her life. On the surface, she looked curious as she pressed, "Why is Brother Meng Huan''s surname Meng?"


    Meng Huan''s heart tightened.


    Qin Yun smiled at his children and said, "Years ago, I was given an opportunity by the Buddhists. I dreamed for a hundred years and was reincarnated into another world. In that world, my name was Meng Yiqiu! Huan''er was my son from that world."


    "Meng Yiqiu?" Qin Yiyi seemed enlightened as she immediately bowed at Meng Huan. "Greetings Brother, I''m Yiyi."


    "Sister Yiyi, don''t stand on ceremony," said Meng Huan immediately.


    Noticing that the siblings were establishing a respectful relationship, Qin Yun nodded slightly. "From this day forth, both of you are to temporarily live in the Great Chang world. Just treat it as a meditation retreat here in the Great Chang world."


    "Dad, if I can''t return to my sect for a prolonged period of time¡­" Meng Huan said somewhat worried.


    "Don''t worry. I will inform your Sect Master Jade Tripod," said Qin Yun.


    Meng Huan heaved a sigh of relief, feeling quite happy. He finally had the chance to visit his father''s homeworld, and he could spend time with his father.


    "Huan''er, Yiyi." Qin Yun flipped his hand and two green lotus seeds appeared. "Each of you take one."


    With that said, the two lotus seeds flew toward Meng Huan and Qin Yiyi.


    Meng Huan and Qin Yiyi were somewhat puzzled, but they had absolute trust in their father. They did not hesitate to pick up the lotus seeds and consume them. Unbeknownst to them¡­ these were two of the three lotus seeds which were specially bestowed by the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure after he learned what astounding deeds Qin Yun was about to undertake.


    Yi Xiao had already taken hers, so all that was left were the two for his children.


    "Oh?" Meng Huan and Qin Yiyi revealed looks of shock.


    They felt a mysterious vital power seep into their Essence Souls the moment they consumed the seeds. The energy went into the deepest depths of their Essence Souls as its vital force had an impact on them.


    "It seems my Essence Soul has strengthened quite considerably after consuming this lotus seed," said Meng Huan.


    "Me too." Qin Yiyi wore a look of delight.


    Qin Yun knew that the benefits the lotus seeds brought to the Essence Souls of his children were more potent because his children''s Essence Souls were weaker. In fact, the most important function of the lotus seed was to protect their lives.


    "Han Lin." Qin Yun looked at Han Lin. "Do you plan to stay in the Great Chang world or go elsewhere?"


    Qin Yiyi immediately turned her head to stare at Han Lin.


    Han Lin immediately said reverently, "I''ll naturally accompany Sis Yiyi."


    "Good." Qin Yun nodded in approbation. "You can choose any three of my Qin Manor''s cultivation manuals."


    "Thank you, Uncle," said Han Lin politely.


    ¡­


    After settling his children in, Qin Yun no longer had any worries. As for his homeworld? No one in the Three Realms would dare threaten his family.


    "Brother Yun, be careful." Yi Xiao looked at her husband, for she knew what astounding deeds he was about to accomplish.


    "Xiaoxiao, just wait for my return here," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I''ll take off now!"


    With that said, he vanished.


    ******


    In the Daoist sacred land, Green Touring Palace, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sat high on a bed of clouds. His gaze penetrated the endless spatial obstructions as he watched from afar.


    "This disciple of mine sure is gutsy. His actions will stir a huge wave through the Three Realms! He might even change the situation of the entire Three Realms." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure watched with pride. Who was the one tipping the balance of the Three Realms? It was his disciple!


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend world was the nest of the fiends in the Effulgent Great World.


    The strongest here was Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud, who matched that of a mighty figure. His subordinates were all half-step Ancestral Fiends, as well as a group of extremely powerful ninth firmament Skyfiends. Of course, there were even more ordinary Skyfiends.


    This was a nest. Here, Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud wielded control over the various situations in the Effulgent dominion. He could even deploy reinforcements elsewhere and over a prolonged battle, there were countless Small Worlds in the Effulgent dominion which had been completely occupied by the fiends, turning them into fiendish worlds.


    "Brother Fire Puppet! Brother Fire Puppet!" shouted General Roc Fiend urgently from outside a palace.


    "Roc Fiend, why are you looking for me with such urgency?" Old Fiend Fire Puppet walked out from his seclusion.


    Roc Fiend said immediately, "Brother Fire Puppet, something huge has happened!"


    "What is it?" Old Fiend Fire Puppet was puzzled. "Is there a need to be in such panic?"


    "Supremacy Star Destruction is dead!" said Roc Fiend immediately. "He was killed by Qin Yun."


    "What?" Fire Puppet was astonished. "Where did you get the news from? Supremacy Star Destruction is someone even the Heavenly Courts'' twenty-eight Lunar Mansions can''t even do a thing against with their combined strength. Even the 108 Heavenly Constellation Earthly Wraith''s combined strength is useless. Qin Yun killed him? Back then, although Qin Yun was slightly stronger than us and his talent was sufficiently high, he was nothing compared to Supremacy Star Destruction."


    "I just heard the news. It''s definitely genuine news," said Roc Fiend immediately.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying blast erupted.


    "What happened?" Fire Puppet and Roc Fiend turned their heads. They were both late-stage Skyfiends. They saw the void more than five thousand kilometers away. A passageway had opened up from the void, and out of it walked a youth. He carried a dark green sword behind him.


    His invisible oppressive force could not help but horrify all of the Skyfiends in the Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "This¡­"


    Many Skyfiends were appalled.


    At that moment, Qin Yun was like a divine sword that had descended into this world, one that could render the world asunder. Just one look at him left the Skyfiends horrified. This had to do with Qin Yun''s terrifying Sword Dao aura, as well as his aura that was one with the Connate Cardinal treasure, Qingping Sword!


    "Qin Yun?" Fire Puppet and Roc Fiend could not believe their eyes when they saw him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, might I know what you are doing here? Please share it with me." Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud flew across the sky as he said loudly. However, he was feeling extremely unease.


    Even Supremacy Star Destruction was destroyed in three strikes.


    What little did a mere Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud like him matter?


    "Whoosh~"


    Qin Yun did not say a word as a misty drizzle encompassed the entirety of the Tenebrous Fiend world. Ever since the Sword Dao in his Intrinsic Flying Sword was elevated to the pinnacle Great Dao level and became a Merit Numinous treasure, the Misty Rain domain it still possessed had become even more powerful. It had a wider range, one that could encompass a region of fifty thousand kilometers.


    "Destroy!" Qin Yun said softly.


    The countless raindrops transformed into Sword Qi as they pummeled the world!


    Sword Qi tore through countless fiends¡ªeach one of them tainted with immense sins¡ªin the world, destroying their bodies. Roc Fiend and Fire Puppet died on the spot after being penetrated by the terrifying Sword Qi. Qin Yun''s will had blanketed all the Skyfiends and had also swept through the two of them. He also recognized them to be the two Skyfiends he had been pursuing years ago; however, he thought nothing of it.


    With a mere thought, he had vanquished nearly all the fiends in a world!


    "Qin Yun, what do you think you are doing? Do you know what you are doing?" Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud roared angrily upon seeing what had just happened. "There''s still time for you to quit. We fiends can write off the death of all these Skyfiends! But if you continue, you are tearing open the heavens!"


    "Tearing open the heavens?" Qin Yun shot him a glance.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword, Misty Rain Sword, had already torn through the void and appeared beside Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud.


    Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud was equivalent to a mighty figure after all, so he had extremely powerful life-preservation means. To use the Misty Rain domain to kill him? It would require quite a bit of time. Qin Yun had no time to waste.


    "Pfft!"


    The Misty Rain Sword instantly appeared beside him as Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud felt the space around him collapsing. He had no means of escaping.


    "This is going to be huge! Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud muttered. "This is really going to be huge!"


    As the Misty Rain Sword unleashed its assault, space rapidly collapsed in the direction of the sword tip. It caused Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud, who possessed extremely powerful life-preservation means, to be compressed! He was constantly shrinking from the compression¡­ until he was just a tiny point. With a poof, he turned to dust, leaving behind his armaments.


    With the Qingping Sword on his back, Qin Yun extended his hand and the Misty Rain Sword tore through the void and returned into his palm.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun noticed something.


    He felt eyes watching from various spots.


    Mighty figures all across the Three Realms were watching, especially the Ancestral Fiends in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. They were the most infuriated ones.


    "As expected." Qin Yun muttered before waving his hand. The Misty Rain Sword tore through a spatial passageway, linking him to a fiendish nest in a distant dominion. With one step, Qin Yun passed through the spatial passageway and arrived in another fiendish nest.


    "Why is he so daring!?"


    "Why does this Qin Yun dare to do this!?"


    All the ancient existences in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss were infuriated and anxious. They knew very well what Qin Yun was doing.

 564 The Mighty Figures Watch the Battle

    Chapter 564: The Mighty Figures Watch the Battle


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun tore through the spatial passageway and arrived in the fiendish nest of another dominion.


    Simultaneously, Qin Yun felt rich merit begin to descend upon him.


    Such acts were destined to reward him with immense merit. However, it would only be rewarded slowly over time as the Small Worlds he took back needed time to be reoccupied.


    "All the merit will be infused into my Intrinsic Flying Sword. The more merit, the better," thought Qin Yun.


    The greater the merit, the stronger his flying sword would be.


    Meanwhile, Qin Yun also sensed the various fiendish nests in the numerous dominions. "The Three Realms are vast, and due to the way space is laid out, there are sixty dominions. The Heavenly Courts, Daoists, Buddhists, ancient demons, Chaos Godfiends, fiends, dragons, and the magi each occupy a number of dominions.


    Time in these sixty dominions ran at different speeds. They were even in different spatial dimensions.


    For example, even Yellow-robed Supremacy and Ancestral Master Zhang, who had strength that matched mighty figures, were still unable to cross dominions using their own strength before they attained their Great Dao. They had to rely on the powers of a sacred land like the Green Touring Palace to do so.


    Of the sixty dominions, some had strong governance, while others had weaker governance.


    For example, in dominions with ancient Chaos Godfiends ruling over a Great World, their perfected Golden Immortal strength naturally met no challenges to their rule.


    However, if a dominion did not have a number of Skygod and Skyimmortal experts who matched mighty figures or half-step Golden Immortals, and large numbers of ninth firmament Skyimmortals and Skygods under them, the governing body of its Small Worlds would be insufficient. The Heavenly Courts, Daoists, Buddhists, and various factions, including the fiends, would begin to slowly occupy the various Small Worlds. Although a Small World was small, numerous ones added together would have an amount of lives that far exceeded a Great World.


    "Sixty dominions. Ten of them are completely occupied by the fiends. They also have garrisons in twenty-six dominions. In these twenty-six dominions, there are countless fiends who occupy innumerable Small Worlds. My Effulgent dominion is one of the twenty-six dominions," thought Qin Yun.


    Hua!


    Qin Yun walked out from the spatial passageway and appeared in another Small World.


    ¡­


    This Small World was the Wind Fiend world of the Falling Willow dominion.


    Fiend Supremacy Saka was cultivating in seclusion. He had two curved grotesque horns and his body was layered with pale green scaled armor. He cultivated his body, making it extremely powerful. He was also adept at divine powers and saber arts. He was one of the strongest Fiend Supremacies who presided over the fiendish nests. He was even more powerful than Fiend Supremacy Black Wing who Qin Yun had previously dealt with.


    This was also the reason why Qin Yun chose his to be the second fiendish nest he destroyed. This was because the Fiend Supremacies would begin to escape as time passed.


    "Saka, quickly escape back to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Quick!" A voice sounded in Fiend Supremacy Saka''s mind.


    Saka opened his eyes with a frown. "What''s happening? What''s the rush?"


    Following that, a fluctuation instantly enveloped the entire Wind Fiend world, sealing off the space completely.


    "It''s over!" The voice sighed and did not say another word.


    Qin Yun was too fast!


    Qin Yun had wiped out countless fiends in the Tenebrous Fiend world with a mere thought and killed Fiend Supremacy Tenebrous Cloud with one strike before coming here!


    "Boom!" Saka tore out of his seclusion chamber and instantly saw a young man carrying a dark green sword on his back high up in the sky. The young man looked over with a cold glare.


    "Qin Yun!" The color in Saka''s face drained.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Misty drizzles enveloped the entire Wind Fiend world. The raindrops were tiny and very gentle.


    The numerous Skyfiends in the various caves looked up curiously. A number of them had drastic changes in expressions when they saw Qin Yun from afar. As for Saka, he was turning tepid. He cultivated his body, so he would even dare fight five Golden Immortals and Buddhas in battle. Even pinnacle Golden Immortals would take quite a while to kill him, but Qin Yun?


    He was a sword immortal!


    "Destroy!" Qin Yun looked down as the countless raindrops turned into swords, stabbing through all the fiends who were guilty of heinous sins. All of them were vanquished.


    Only the fiendish cultivators with few sins and mortals survived in the Wind Fiend world.


    "Pfft!"


    The Misty Rain Sword tore through the void and instantly arrived next to Saka.


    The void began collapsing in the direction of the sword tip!


    In the void, Saka felt space collapsing around him as it kept compressing. When he was compressed to the size of a finger, the collapsing void finally buckled, and Saka''s pale green scaled armor shattered as his body was covered with green blood. Yet, he managed to survive the attack.


    "Puah¡ª"


    The Misty Rain Sword transformed into a thread as it instantly tore through Saka''s body, only to return for another penetration. Saka held a gigantic scimitar in hand as he tried his best to fend off the attack. But he missed every single time. The gap between them was just too huge. The Intrinsic Connate Merit Numinous treasure, the Misty Rain Sword, was just too fast!


    It penetrated him again and again!


    In nearly a blink of an eye, he had been penetrated an additional eight times.


    Saka widened his eyes as his body began to crumble, eventually turning to ashes.


    "Although Star Destruction was strong and had a powerful body, in terms of body cultivation, you were stronger than him. I actually needed nine strikes to kill you." Qin Yun beckoned with his hand as the Misty Rain Sword instantly tore through the void and returned. The treasures left behind by Saka and the Wind Fiend world''s three half-step Ancestral Fiends, as well as numerous fiends, all tore through space in copious amounts to arrive at Qin Yun''s side. With a wave of his hand, he put all of them away.


    "The rest of the Fiend Supremacies of the twenty-four fiendish nests have fled back to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss¡­ Oh? There''s still one who hasn''t fled?" With a thought, Qin Yun sensed all the other fiendish nests. He immediately released his Misty Rain Sword and tore open another spatial passageway. Qin Yun entered with a single step.


    ¡­


    "Quick! Return to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss immediately."


    "Qin Yun might come at any moment."


    The other fiendish nests had been in operation for eons, but they were forced to abandon every single one of them.


    None of the Fiend Supremacies had the confidence to face the peerless sword immortal who had slain Star Destruction. All of them used the powers of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and returned by crossing the dominion barriers! As for the half-step Ancestral Fiends and other powerful ninth firmament Skyfiends, all of them used their various means to escape with Major Void Transference. Some managed to gain the help of Fiend Supremacy avatars to activate array formations that drew upon the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss'' powers to return. Some also fled through the void.


    "Quickly flee!"


    "Those who are slow at escaping are doomed."


    "Such a pity for this Small World. We paid such a huge price to build it, but now, we have to abandon it."


    "We didn''t even have the time to dismantle it."


    All the Skyfiends fled. None of them stayed behind to dismantle the array formations. After all, they were set up to be fixed in place. They never thought of making them mobile, so dismantling what had been set up would be very difficult.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun came to the world with the third fiendish nest.


    He instantly noticed a female Fiend Supremacy in seclusion in a hall.


    "She didn''t escape?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    "Sayi! Sayi!"


    Ancestral Fiends sent voice transmissions, as their angry bellows resonated within the seclusion chamber. However, Sayi ignored them.


    "Fiend Supremacy Sayi must be cultivating in seclusion. As she was too eager for success, she suffered a deviation and was forced to enter a death seclusion that means make or break for her. There''s no way to awaken her now." The Ancestral Fiends quickly came to this conclusion.


    Fiends cultivated in more evil and maniacal means. It also resulted in more rapid increases in strength.


    However¡ª


    It also made the process prone to error. Once they could not control their immense strength, it was very common to die on the spot from renegade Dharmic powers. It was also common for them to enter death seclusion! After they did so, they were completely cut off from the external world. If there was no breakthrough, she would not even resist if an attacker came to kill her.


    "In death seclusion because of a deviation?" Qin Yun had a guess.


    "Destroy!"


    Immediately, Qin Yun began killing fiends. Many fiends had escaped from this world. The weaker ones were slow, but all the ones that had heinous sins were killed.


    Sayi was similarly killed by Qin Yun with a single strike. She died in death seclusion so easily.


    Twenty-six dominions¡­ twenty-six fiendish nests. Qin Yun killed a total of three Fiend Supremacies! All the other Fiend Supremacies managed to escape.


    ******


    While Qin Yun destroyed the fiendish nests, the Ancestral Fiends were sending down commands to get the Fiend Supremacies and Skyfiends to evacuate. They were also in an urgent meeting to discuss countermeasures.


    "We have to think of a way to stop him. We can''t let him continue."


    "Unless these twenty-six dominions have a garrison to support them, there''s no way to defend against the Daoists and Buddhists. The countless Small Worlds we occupy will be very quickly snatched back by them. All these years¡­ we fiends have managed to infiltrate numerous Small Worlds, strengthening the Fiendish Heavenly Dao. If we were to lose so many Small Worlds at one go, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao would be greatly weakened."


    "Yes, the hard work we have put in all these years has allowed us to occupy that many Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions. This is the very foundation of us fiends!"


    "But what can we do? The dominions everywhere have been destroyed. The powerful Skyfiends are being pursued. Without a batch of pinnacle Skyfiends, those weak Skyfiends are not able to defend that many Small Worlds."


    "Darn it."


    "Our various garrisons were built arduously. Even Star Destruction wouldn''t have been able to destroy one in a year or so. But Qin Yun¡­ his Itinerant Immortal Dharmic powers are stuck at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm, but his strength is far higher than Star Destruction''s! He can even forcibly tear open space and arrive deep in a Small World''s core. Our array formations have turned into nothing but decoration."


    The Ancestral Fiends were all griped with anxiety.


    The twenty-six fiendish nests were indeed built to be impregnable. They were even more powerful than the eight arrays that defended the Great Chang world! After all, the Great Chang world''s eight arrays were bought by Qin Yun. In comparison, the twenty-six nests were set up by the combined efforts of the fiends themselves. There was even some help from the Fiend Ancestor.


    However, Qin Yun could forcibly penetrate space and enter deep into a Small World. The array formations turned into nothing but jokes.


    "We have no solution."


    "No one can stop Qin Yun in a Small World."


    "Let''s await the Fiend Ancestor''s orders."


    ¡­


    The various factions in the Three Realms were watching Qin Yun''s operation. Many mighty figures were rejoicing.


    Many of them had experienced the Daoist-Fiend war, and now, seeing the Three Realms'' best Itinerant Immortal, Qin Yun, destroy the fiend nests one after another, turning the hard work of the fiends to naught, all of them were overjoyed. Even the Heavenly Courts'' Jade Emperor, Emperor Polestar, and other existences were watching.


    They were all excited. This was definitely a huge victory against the fiends!


    "Hahaha, nice. Nice." In Green Touring Palace, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure roared with laughter while sitting on a bed of clouds. He was extremely delighted as he sent a voice transmission, "Elderly Lord, Primordial Beginning, Gautama, and N¨¹wa, what do you think of this disciple of mine?"

 565 Fiend Ancestor Appears

    Chapter 565: Fiend Ancestor Appears


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    In Eight Scenic Palace, a white-haired and white-browed Grand Supreme Elderly Lord smiled as he watched all of this. He said, "This young guy named Qin Yun is indeed not bad. The strategic actions that took the fiends years to put in motion allowed them to occupy countless Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions. Now, this Qin Yun has swept through so many fiendish nests, reducing all the painstaking work the fiends have put in to nothing. The fiends are probably hopping mad."


    "The Fiendish Heavenly Dao has infiltrated numerous Small Worlds. By taking back these Small Worlds, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao will also weaken as a result." In N¨¹wa Palace, Goddess N¨¹wa stood there watching remotely. She too said with a smile, "Black Lotus is probably turning anxious."


    "Definitely." In the Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous, Buddhist Ancestor Gautama sat on a Buddhist lotus as he smiled. "Black Lotus will not watch this happen without doing anything. He will definitely take action soon."


    "Black Lotus has powerful means. Numinous Treasure, your disciple might not be able to stay true to himself in front of him," said the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning with a laugh.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure retorted, "If this disciple of mine has gone this far, he is naturally able to stay true to himself."


    "Black Lotus is the Fiend Ancestor, the originator of the Fiendish Dao," added the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning. "It''s only normal if your disciple flinches. As his master, you should understand the difficulties a disciple will face."


    "Hmph!" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure grunted coldly. "Just watch!"


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued sweeping through the fiendish nests one by one.


    Mighty figures from every area were watching the developments. The fiendish mighty figures were the most anxious. The strength of the Fiendish Dao was intricately tied to them. Anyone would wish for their side to remain strong. Now, what Qin Yun was doing was leaving a massive impact on the fiends. After the countless worlds in the twenty-six dominions were snatched back, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao would weaken as a result. That was one aspect.


    The second aspect was that, with the countless Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions, there was the possibility of producing countless Skyfiends. It was even possible that an Ancestral Fiend could be produced.


    But once these countless Small Worlds were taken back, the fiends would experience a drastic drop in fiendish cultivators at the lower echelons. The lower echelons determined the future upper echelons.


    "Quick, quick. Quick escape!"


    "Quickly activate the array formation."


    In a fiendish nest world, large numbers of Skyfiends were fleeing in panic. There were also Skyfiends standing in an array formation trying anxiously to activate the array formations.


    Boom!


    The world quaked as the Skyfiends turned to look. In the distance, a young man with a sword on his back walked out from a spatial passageway into the distance. He was none other than Qin Yun.


    "It''s Qin Yun."


    "We are doomed." The Skyfiends revealed looks of despair.


    A misty drizzle appeared everywhere as it scattered across the entire world. Soon, these raindrops transformed into countless flying sword, killing all the fiends with heinous sins.


    Qin Yun stood in midair as merit kept descending upon him. Qin Yun would redirect the merit and infuse it into his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly sensed something as he looked up.


    In the cosmos.


    A towering female figure appeared. The neighboring planets beside her were not even the size of her feet. She was dressed in white and had purple hair. She was sitting on a gigantic boulder, smiling.


    She sat there looking down at Qin Yun from the cosmos.


    Behind the white-dressed woman, there was a boundless shadowy figure. The shadowy figure contained endless horrors, darkness, and banefulness. Just one glance was enough to make Qin Yun avert his eyes.


    "Fiend Ancestor." Qin Yun immediately knew who she was.


    Fiend Ancestor.


    The originator of the Fiendish Dao!


    "Legend has it that the Fiend Ancestor has cultivated three avatars. They are the female body, the male body, and the destruction body." Qin Yun knew this. "The one that appeared this time is the female body. I''ve heard that the Fiend Ancestor''s female body has endless charms that can mesmerize one''s Dao heart. But I''m in a Small World, so no matter what potent divine powers or Dharmic powers she has¡­ they will be greatly weakened once they enter a Small World."


    Qin Yun understood this point.


    With his present strength, he did not dare enter the cosmos to fight the Fiend Ancestor''s true body.


    "Qin Yun." The woman''s white clothes fluttered as her fair, bare-footed toes could be seen clearly. She smiled as she looked at Qin Yun, a smile that made Qin Yun feel uncomfortable.


    "Are you willing to stop?" said the Fiend Ancestor''s female body with a smile. "Should you have any conditions, you may present them now."


    "Fiend Ancestor." Qin Yun continued looking up. "Don''t waste your efforts."


    The Fiend Ancestor shook her head. "Qin Yun, you have gained insights into a pinnacle Great Dao and you should know that the Heavenly Dao is split into Yin and Yang. There is darkness if there is light. The Three Realms were originally a swath of Chaos. It was Pangu who split the Heaven and Earth apart, allowing Yin and Yang to separate. The Three Realms have countless beings, but similarly, they have their boundless grievances, sins, and corruption¡­ These energies combine to form the Fiendish Dao. Only if all life in the Three Realms is vanquished, returning everything to Chaos, would the Fiendish Dao cease to exist. If not¡­ the Fiendish Dao will forever exist within the Three Realms!"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    "The more living beings there are in the Three Realms, the stronger we fiends will naturally become. That is the general trend!" Fiend Ancestor smiled. Even if you can destroy these fiendish garrisons in a short amount of time, temporarily snatching back all these Small Worlds, as long as there are countless beings who harbor feelings of greed, envy, hate, and other such notions, we fiends will keep growing stronger. We fiends will eventually snatch back all these Small Worlds one day.


    "What you are doing is only influencing a moment in time," said the Fiend Ancestor. "It does not do any damage to the foundations of us fiends. Are you willing to risk everything to offend us fiends with a moment of suppression? Do you know the outcome?


    "Fiends believe in revenge for the smallest grievance. Aren''t you worried about your family and loved ones after you die in about ten thousand years?" Fiend Ancestor smiled faintly.


    "Hmph, so the Fiend Ancestor is actually this shameless." Qin Yun''s eyes were filled with coldness.


    "You can use the excuse of your family and loved ones to tell your master and others that I forced you," said Fiend Ancestor. "Cowering back because of your family and loved ones is something the Three Realms will definitely understand. Besides, as long as you stop¡­ I can swear that even if you reincarnate, I will not destroy your soul energy in Samsara. You will completely be able to be received in your new incarnation."


    Samsara was extremely mysterious.


    Even mighty figures could not interfere in it.


    However, the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor was capable of doing so. They could infuse some energies in, so the moment mighty figures perished, the opposing side would immediately embark on a mission to destroy them, leaving only a True Spirit for reincarnation.


    Now, the Fiend Ancestor had promised not to take action¡­ Qin Yun could not help but ruminate on the idea.


    Reincarnation? If he was received and awakened, he could redo things again?


    He could make another attempt at creating a sword immortal Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation or even a Golden Immortal Dharmic formulation?


    "Fiend Ancestor, you are extremely powerful. A swear does not bind you," said Qin Yun.


    "I can announce to the entire Three Realms that if you stop now, I will allow you to peacefully reincarnate. Furthermore, I will absolutely not do a thing to your family and loved ones," said Fiend Ancestor with a smile. "Once all the Three Realms knows of that, I will have to do as I say because of my standing. You can also tell your fellow disciples that you did it because of your family and your own cultivation path¡­ leaving you no choice but to retreat. I believe your master and others will understand you. With your talent of so quickly attaining a pinnacle Great Dao, the moment you attain a Great Dao implies that in a million or ten million years of cultivation, it would not be difficult for you to become a perfected Golden Immortal. Once you become a perfected Golden Immortal, you would easily be the lord of a Great World. You would truly be invincible your entire life."


    Fiend Ancestor looked at Qin Yun and added, "Besides, you have been investigating all this time about the secret of the Great Chang world, right? Bojia would not dare defy me. As long as you stop, I will get him to obediently tell you of the Great Chang world''s secret."


    "Think carefully," said the Fiend Ancestor. "Either you choose a path of no return, or you choose a path that is good for the both of us."

 566 Choice

    Chapter 566: Choice


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Now, all of the Three Realms was paying attention to the matter.


    Everyone knew that the Fiend Ancestor''s female form had appeared to personally negotiate with Qin Yun.


    Unfortunately, no one outside knew the contents of their conversation. After all, the Fiend Ancestor had the strength to easily block any external probes. In fact, even Qin Yun had the confidence to isolate himself from the probings of the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor due to the restrictions they faced in a Small World.


    "Black Lotus has appeared," said Grand Supreme Elderly Lord with a chuckle. "Unfortunately, he has shielded everything. Even we have no means of figuring out what he is saying to Qin Yun."


    "Let''s wait. Now, all we can do is wait and see the outcome of the conversation," said the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, Goddess N¨¹wa, and Buddhist Ancestor Gautama were all watching.


    They paid great attention to the outcome.


    This matter carried serious repercussions; by liberating the Small Worlds under fiendish occupation, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao would be weakened, strengthening the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao.


    "The female form of the Fiend Ancestor has appeared. She will likely offer many benefits. I wonder if fellow Daoist Qin will be able to resist the temptation."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is a peerless sword immortal. It will not be easy for the Fiend Ancestor to entice him."


    "That''s hard to say. How many mighty figures can resist the promises made by the Fiend Ancestor?"


    "Everyone, let''s just wait. We will know the outcome in a while."


    "What I''m afraid of is¡­ that Sword Immortal Qin will cease action. Should he agree to cease action, the lives in all the Small Worlds occupied by the fiends in the twenty-six dominions will probably remain in misery."


    The mighty figures watched.


    In the worlds ruled by the fiends, life was cruel and bloody.


    The cruelest fiendish worlds would even treat all lives in the world as livestock. They were food for the spirit-devouring lineage or sea of blood lineage lineage cultivators!


    In contrast, the worlds which were encompassed by the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao, were a lot more peaceful. Cultivators would even try their best to accumulate merit by doing good deeds. Merit was something cultivators pursued. They would do their best to slay fiendish demons and protect life.


    And now, extricating the countless lives which resided in the twenty-six dominions'' Small Worlds from misery all depended on the outcome of Qin Yun''s and the Fiend Ancestor''s conversation.


    ******


    The Fiend Ancestor''s female form was extremely lofty. Her feet were fair and she sat on a humongous boulder, looking down at Qin Yun from the cosmos. She patiently awaited Qin Yun''s answer.


    Qin Yun stood in midair as he contemplated for a moment before saying, "Impressive. I, Qin Yun, believe that my Dao heart is firm, but you actually managed to waver it with just a few words."


    "To have a carefree and eternal life, being a perfected Golden Immortal, lord of a Great World¡­" Qin Yun shook his head gently. "If I can choose, I will definitely not choose the route to death. I would also wish to choose the route to life. Only by being alive will I be able to protect all life, and even do so for billions of years."


    "You can obviously choose the route to life!" said the Fiend Ancestor.


    "Choose the route to life?" Qin Yun scoffed. "Fiend Ancestor, if I choose the route to life as you deem it¡­ Yes, you can indeed promise to announce to the Three Realms that you would not implicate my wife and children, or that you would not attack when I reincarnate. And if I were to really stop and cultivate in peace, there is little chance for me to survive the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. Eventually, I would have to choose to reincarnate. But when I choose to reincarnate¡­ you would go back on your word and disregard face. You would still attack and destroy my soul force."


    "As such, I will still die! As for you fiends, you would not suffer a thing. I, Qin Yun, will then become a humongous joke," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Fiend Ancestor, am I right?"


    Fiend Ancestor shook her head. "You think I would announce to the Three Realms and still disregard face to attack you, aren''t you underestimating me?"


    "Underestimate?"


    Qin Yun scoffed. "Fiend Ancestor, I do not dare underestimate you. I do wish to live, but who are you? You are the Fiend Ancestor! The originator of the Fiendish Dao! What are fiends? Evil, deceitful, cunning, greedy, envious¡­ All the powers of sin gathered together result in fiends! As Fiend Ancestor, would you be a person of your word? Or open and aboveboard? I would really be stupid to believe you."


    "You think I''m lying to you based on your conjectures?" Fiend Ancestor shook her head.


    "Yes, I can''t just base it on mere conjecture," said Qin Yun. "When reading a person, one should look at their actions. To read you as a person, I should also see what you have done in the past! Ever since the uprising of the fiends with the Daoist-Fiend war, when have you ever been softhearted? Didn''t you try to vanquish the Buddhist and Daoist cultivators by all means possible? You would even ignore your reputation as Fiend Ancestor to destroy the soul force of any perished person who has strength that matches a mighty figure.


    "Originally, mighty figures could frequently reincarnate and continue their cultivation in the Three Realms.


    "But ever since you crossed the bottom line, no mighty figure has dared to reincarnate again."


    "Aren''t the Three Pure Ones and Gautama the same? They attack fiendish experts in Samsara as well." Fiend Ancestor smiled. "This is war, not child''s play."


    Qin Yun said angrily, "That''s because numerous disciples of the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were killed in the reincarnation process! This incurred the wrath of the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor. Later on, they paid you back in your own coin. It was you who crossed the bottom line first."


    "To think that the mighty Fiend Ancestor would attack mere Skyimmortals and Bodhisattvas simply because they have strengths that match mighty figures." Qin Yun scoffed. "I''m a lot stronger than them, and you say you wouldn''t take action? If you are already doing such deeds without thought of saving face, wouldn''t it be normal to kill me?


    "My conjecture and your past actions are only secondary!" said Qin Yun. "Most importantly, if you were to really allow me to reincarnate peacefully, that would mean that the Three Realms would have an additional perfected Golden Immortal sword immortal! The threat I pose will be more than ten times, or even a hundred times than the threat I pose now!


    "You mentioned before that if I were to help the Heavenly Courts, the Daoists, and Buddhists to snatch back the numerous Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions, it only be ephemeral. You fiends can slowly infiltrate the worlds again and it would not destabilize your foundations.


    "But having an immortal perfected Golden Immortal sword immortal will affect you fiends for eternity!


    "And it''s even possible that with my strength, I can easily take down one of your fiendish Great Worlds and take over an entire dominion!


    "A perfected Golden Immortal sword immortal¡­ will result in losses that will be far greater than the temporary loss of the numerous Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions.


    "Would you be so willing to reduce some minor losses that you would produce a future perfected Golden Immortal sword immortal and be dealt greater losses?" Qin Yun scoffed. "Such a sure-lose deal might be done by others, but would you, the Fiend Ancestor, do it?"


    "Regardless if it''s a conjecture of your nature, your past actions, or the gains and losses of this matter¡­" said Qin Yun, "I have determined that you are deliberately lying to me with your so-called face. You are deceiving me into stopping, fooling me into reincarnating so as to kill me. You fiends will not suffer any losses. How nice a scheme."


    Fiend Ancestor shook her head. "Qin Yun, you have really underestimated me too much."


    "Underestimate you? I didn''t. If you really cared about face, you would not have crossed the bottom line back then to attack Skyimmortals and Bodhisattvas in Samsara! The past have proven that your face has a price. Once the price is met, you would ignore it and attack." Qin Yun suddenly seemed enlightened. "Yes, I have underestimated you."


    "I had no means of retreat to begin with. I have to forge ahead and seek out that sliver of survival from the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. And if I were to really believe you and have a means of retreat, making my Dao heart waver¡­ it would then mean that I have zero hope of surviving the Itinerant Immortal tribulations." Qin Yun sneered. "Impressive, your schemes were really well calculated! Not only would you fiends not suffer any losses, but even the hopes of my transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations have been taken into account. You are bent on destroying me."


    "Alright, I won''t waste any more of my time chatting with you. I still need to destroy the other fiendish nests." With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand as the Misty Rain Sword struck out, boring open a spatial passageway. Qin Yun strode in and headed for another fiendish garrison.


    He ignored the Fiend Ancestor completely.


    The expression on the Fiend Ancestor''s female form changed slightly as she chuckled softly. "What a character. Unfortunately, you will still be reduced to dust after ten thousand years or so."


    With that said, the Fiend Ancestor vanished. The cosmos were restored to normal.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued wiping out the various fiendish nests, but all the powerful Skyfiends had already fled. Yet, Qin Yun continued wiping them all out, and even dismantled the array formations after all was said and then. He dismantled them completely, preventing the fiends from rebuilding them.


    And the various experts of the Three Realms had also seen the outcome of Qin Yun''s conversation with the Fiend Ancestor.


    Qin Yun''s actions were the outcome!

 567 Massive Meri

    Chapter 567: Massive Merit


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Effulgent Great World, Thousand Saber Fiend Sect.


    Palatial Lord Kuishi was hiding there.


    "I nearly shared the same fate of being slain by Qin Yun as the numerous Skyfiends in the Tenebrous Fiend world." Kuishi was feeling a lingering fear. "Years ago, I attempted to assassinate him, so he will definitely not show me mercy. Thankfully, I was careful enough. Once I knew he killed Supremacy Star Destruction, I fled, afraid that he would seek revenge on me in the Tenebrous Fiend world.


    "He''s crazier than I imagined and his ambition is even greater. Even the Fiend Ancestor''s appearance was useless. Just one operation, and he has wiped out the fiendish garrisons in the twenty-six dominions. He has destroyed many years of our hard work.


    "As for me¡­ He probably thinks of me like an ant, something he can crush without thought. He probably doesn''t even care about me," thought Kuishi.


    "Kuishi."


    A voice sounded in Kuishi''s ears.


    She left the room and saw a pudgy elder appear in midair. Beside him were several Skyfiends.


    "Master." Kuishi immediately flew over and bowed reverently.


    "Come, return with me," said the pudgy elder.


    "Yes." Kuishi asked again, "Are we all returning?"


    "The various Small Worlds in the Effulgent dominion won''t hold. We shall return for now," said the elder. Then, he led Kuishi and several Skyfiends back to a dominion ruled by the fiends.


    ¡­


    In a fiendish nest world covered in sand, Qin Yun stood high in the sky as hazy drizzles descended upon the land.


    Countless Sword Qi flew about wantonly, obliterating all the fiends with heinous sins.


    "This is the final fiendish garrison. All the Skyfiends have fled, leaving behind ordinary Fiendcelestials." Qin Yun looked up and his gaze penetrated the void. He saw massive numbers of Skyfiends fleeing across the void!


    "Do you think you can run?"


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Wisps of Sword Qi shot out. Each wisp of Sword Qi tore through the void and rapidly traversed the vast distance. Arriving in space, they slew the Skyfiends one by one.


    After the Sword Qi killed the enemy, the wisps would bring back all the spoils of war.


    "Now, the fiends are desperately trying to rescue the Skyfiends in the twenty-six dominions." Qin Yun could look across the Three Realms with a mere thought. He could see many Ancestral Fiends appearing to rescue half-step Ancestral Fiends and the powerful late-stage Skyfiend experts. After all, they were Skyfiends who were born out of the countless worlds in the twenty-six dominions over a long period of time.


    It was even possible that a number of the countless Skyfiends would one day become Ancestral Fiends!


    The fiends naturally had to rescue them!


    "The Daoists, Buddhists, Heavenly Courts, and various factions have begun taking action to kill the fiends." Qin Yun smiled. "However, I''m still the best when it comes to killing these Skyfiends."


    He waved his hand.


    The Misty Rain Sword tore open a spatial passageway and connected to a distant Small World. Qin Yun directly arrived in that Small World through the passageway.


    This Small World was ruled by a ninth firmament Skyfiend.


    "Wait, in a while Patriarch will be here and he will bring us back to the fiendish dominion." A ninth firmament Skyfiend was leading his Skyfiend subordinates as he waited.


    "Brother, how long have we got to wait?"


    "Patriarch is rescuing the half-step Ancestral Fiends first. One by one," said the ninth firmament Skyfiend "Soon, it will be our turn."


    "Are we going to just abandon everything? Are we giving up on all the Small Worlds we rule?"


    "We have to! If we continue staying here, we''ll be seeing Qin Yun tear open a spatial passageway and appear here before we know it. When that happens, we will no longer be able to flee."


    "Will Qin Yun come here now?"


    "Don''t worry. There are so many Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions. Qin Yun is just one man. Such a coincidence won''t happen."


    Just as the ninth firmament Skyfiend finished his sentence, they saw a spatial passageway tear open in midair as Qin Yun walked out.


    "Qin Yun!"


    "It''s him!"


    The color in the Skyfiends'' faces drained. The ninth firmament Skyfiend leading them wore a look of despair. He was going to perish, just like that, after a life full of power!


    Qin Yun looked down and with a wave of his hand, countless raindrops turned into sharp swords that bore down on the group of Skyfiends.


    "Killing all these Skyfiends with grievous sins can firstly prevent them from continuously wreaking havoc, and secondly, there''s immense merit gained in doing so. For the present me, the more merit I have, the better." As Qin Yun slew the Skyfiends, merit was constantly descending upon him as he transferred all the merit into his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "However, there''s just too many Skyfiends.


    "Among the the twenty-six dominions, even if I only kill all the late-stage Skyfiends, there are just too many of them." Qin Yun stepped through the spatial passageway once again as he headed for another Small World with late-stage Skyfiends.


    ¡­


    Twenty-six dominions.


    To rule over countless fiendish Small Worlds in a stable fashion was a difficult task.


    For example, apart from the fiendish garrison where the supreme fiendish leader resided, there were a large number of Small Worlds occupied by late-stage Skyfiends¡­ They had numerous mid-stage Skyfiends who could rule over the Small Worlds¡­ As for early-stage Skyfiends and those at the Fiendcelestial realm¡­ just a handful of ordinary Fiendcelestials was sufficient to rule in those worlds with thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies.


    One rung after another, the ladder of command was meticulously planned, allowing reinforcements to be provided at any time.


    As such, the fiends were able to fend off the infiltrations of the Daoists, Buddhists, and the Heavenly Courts!


    But now¡­ Qin Yun had directly destroyed the strongest twenty-six fiendish garrisons! Following that, he pursued the late-stage Skyfiends. Having lost the reinforcements of the upper echelons, the countless fiendish Small Worlds naturally could not be defended when the large number of Daoist and Buddhist experts stormed them. Some even abandoned the Small Worlds upon receiving the orders from the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and began fleeing for their lives.


    All of this was because of Qin Yun!


    The Fiend Ancestor had attempted to stop him, but he had failed.


    ******


    "Hahaha, nicely done Sword Immortal Qin. All we can do is wait in space and stop those Ancestral Fiends and kill some Skyfiends. This Sword Immortal Qin is able to the enter Small Worlds to slay Skyfiends and is faster than us. Gongming, the kills your junior brother has garnered in a day is probably many times the number of kills you''ve gotten your entire life." A barefooted immortal smiled while walking amid the cosmos. Beside him was a golden-robed man with a long beard.


    The golden-robed man sighed. "This junior brother is obviously stronger than me. If he had not brought forward his tribulations to save his homeworld and ended up an Itinerant Immortal, he probably would have had a chance of reaching the perfected Golden Immortal realm in the future."


    "It''s truly quite a pity. Oh, an Ancestral Fiend has appeared. Let''s go," said the barefooted immortal.


    The duo vanished instantly.


    ¡­


    One mighty figure after another from the Three Realms helped out. Many of the dragons, magi, ancient demons, and Chaos Godfiends had taken action. Clearly, when it was time to deal with the fiends, the various factions were unified.


    In just an hour, the Three Realms restored its calm.


    Qin Yun also returned to his homeworld, the Great Chang world.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao had long been waiting. Only when she saw Qin Yun return with the Qingping Sword on his back did she smile.


    "Has it ended?" Yi Xiao immediately poured some tea for Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun sat down and drank the tea, nodding. "It''s over. The fiends are trying to save the Skyfiends with all they have. Even Patriarch Blood Sea''s nine avatars appeared! The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body even clashed once with Buddhist Ancestor Gautama. However, they were too far from me¡­ They stopped fighting after just a single clash.


    "The half-step Ancestral Fiends in the twenty-six dominions were the first to be rescued. While I was sweeping through the fiendish garrisons, the Ancestral Fiends took action to rescue the fiends! About ninety percent were rescued, but there were ten percent killed," said Qin Yun. "As for late-stage Skyfiends, about half of them were rescued. Mighty figures had managed to kill quite a number. I killed a few. Although I was the only one who could enter Small Worlds in pursuit."


    Yi Xiao nodded slightly. She could see the endless merit descending upon Qin Yun. She also knew that Qin Yun was redirecting it all to his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    "Since the rise of the fiends," said Yi Xiao. "Immense effort was made to occupy so many Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions. Now that they have been taken back, this merit should far exceed what you gained from killing Star Destruction, right?"


    "If you count from when I started the operation, the merit I received is about twice the amount I received from killing Star Destruction," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, this merit still continues to descend upon me. Every Small World regained is tied to my efforts, so I will receive a portion of the merit! As for the cultivators who reoccupy the Small Worlds, they will also obtain a portion of the merit."


    Yi Xiao nodded.


    Countless Small Worlds¡­


    Experts needed to be deployed to occupy them, and allow the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao to permeate them once more. That required an immense number of people!


    Qin Yun naturally could not do it alone.


    However, because of Qin Yun, the fiends had taken the initiative to flee from the countless Small Worlds! Therefore, he was crucial in all of this. Every Small World regained would provide him with immense merit.


    "Brother Yun, will gaining such immense merit give your Intrinsic Flying Sword a chance at becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure?" asked Yi Xiao.


    Merit Cardinal treasures were a legend!


    Qin Yun had influenced twenty-six dominions, allowing countless Small Worlds to be reoccupied by the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao. It influenced the situation of the Three Realms, which naturally meant immense merit.


    But as for a Merit Cardinal treasure?


    Qin Yun lacked the confidence.


    "No idea. It will take another one or two years before all the Small Worlds are taken back," said Qin Yun. "When that happens, I''ll know if my Misty Rain Sword has a chance of becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure."


    "If it succeeds in becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure, you have have a little more chance at transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulation." Yi Xiao held Qin Yun''s hand. She was always worried for the impending Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    Qin Yun smiled.


    "Brother Yun, after you are done with this, shouldn''t you be attempting to make an Essence Soul breakthrough?" asked Yi Xiao. "If your Essence Soul were to reach the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, your cultivation will be ten times faster than it is now. However, your true body will no longer be able to enter Small Worlds. Would we need to move?"

 568 River of Time

    Chapter 568: River of Time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "There''s no rush." Qin Yun put down his teacup as he frowned slightly. "There''s still one more matter that needs to be resolved or I can''t cultivate in peace."


    "Are you referring to the Great Chang world¡­" guessed Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Patriarch Bojia first sent Fiend Supremacy Black Wing and his subordinates in a bid to occupy the Great Chang world. After the mission failed, he spared no expense to hire Star Destruction to attack the Great Chang world. And before Star Destruction died, he pleaded for me to spare his life in exchange for the Great Chang world''s secret. Even when the Fiend Ancestor appeared to request me to stop, she also mentioned the Great Chang world''s secret!"


    "If this matter isn''t resolved, once my Essence Soul reaches the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, I would no longer be able to enter a Small World with my real body. When that happens, Patriarch Bojia will likely place his sights on the Great Chang world again. It''s even possible that every fiend will be eyeing the Great Chang world."


    "The Great Chang world will likely face another calamity."


    Qin Yun continued, "To resolve this matter, I need to find the root of the problem! First, I have to figure out what secret the Great Chang world is hiding."


    Yi Xiao questioned, "Brother Yun, didn''t you and Ancestral Master Zhang suspect that the Great Chang world had a secret a long time ago? Didn''t both of you investigate numerous times? By the way, did you seek the Dao Ancestor''s help?"


    "It was useless," said Qin Yun. "Master''s strength is greatly weakened when it penetrates into a Small World. It''s far inferior to that of an ordinary Skyimmortal, and even though his realm is extremely high¡­ the powers he can send in here are just too weak. He can''t figure out anything either."


    "If both of you, as well as the Dao Ancestor, are helpless, don''t waste your time on this matter," said Yi Xiao. "Brother Yun, your cultivation time is precious. All you have is slightly more than ten thousand years! Every year is very important! Once your Essence Soul breaks through to the pinnacle Golden Immortal realm, your Essence Soul will become a lot more powerful. Your cultivation speed will be tens of time faster than it is now. It''s best you break through as soon as possible. As for the Great Chang world''s secret, it might take centuries or even millennia before we are able to uncover it."


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    He looked into the distant sky.


    "What secret does the Great Chang world hold?" Qin Yun frowned. "What did that Skyfiend Kuifu discover?"


    "Kuifu¡­" Qin Yun muttered.


    "Kuifu?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up as he smacked the table and said in pleasant surprise, "I got it!"


    "What did you get?" Yi Xiao was perplexed.


    "Haha, follow me." Qin Yun happily got up and took Yi Xiao''s hand.


    Sou!


    The couple immediately tore through the void and came high into the sky where they looked down upon the Great Chang world.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun looked down with delight as he said with a smile, "Back then, Kuifu had spared no expense to occupy the Great Chang world. It puzzled both Ancestral Master Zhang and myself! We suspected that something in the Great Chang world had attracted Kuifu. Later, Ancestral Master Zhang even pursued Kuifu, but unfortunately, he fled."


    "According to our investigations, Kuifu remained in the Tenebrous Fiend world the entire time after his escape. He probably still had hopes of occupying our Great Chang world, but when news of my possession of half-step Golden Immortal strength spread through the Three Realms, he probably gave up and reported the secret. Then, Patriarch Bojia shortly sent Fiend Supremacy Black Wing into action."


    "Therefore, it''s not just Patriarch Bojia who knows of the Great Chang world''s secret, there''s also Kuifu."


    "Are you certain Kuifu would tell the secret to Patriarch Bojia?" pressed Yi Xiao.


    "That''s highly possible. Furthermore, Kuifu is from the Bojia clan," said Qin Yun. "Furthermore, I have huge karmic ties with Kuifu! Back then, he abducted our daughter and imprisoned you for years. By tracing the karmic line between us¡­ I can vaguely confirm that the karmic line goes back to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. I can''t figure out anything else. Clearly, someone whose realm is in no way inferior to mine has concealed his karma."


    "If there''s no special reason, would such a powerful Ancestral Fiend conceal Kuifu''s karma?" sneered Qin Yun.


    "I am more than ninety percent certain that it was Kuifu who informed Patriarch Bojia," Qin Yun said.


    "So what if we know that?" inquired Yi Xiao. "Even if Kuifu is alive, he will definitely be temporarily imprisoned by Patriarch Bojia. It would be hard to make contact with him. Besides, the karma has been concealed."


    "Kuifu''s bid to occupy the Great Chang world had only happened in the recent hundred plus years," said Qin Yun. "How did he learn of the Great Chang world''s secret? Regardless of where he learned it from, he must have visited the Great Chang world to confirm it. He is very far from the Great Chang world and he isn''t capable of Major Void Transference. It would have taken too long for him to travel here. Therefore, he must have descended into our world with an avatar to confirm the secret."


    "And if I guess correctly, Patriarch Bojia must have descended upon our Great Chang world as an avatar to confirm the secret after Kuifu told him. Only after he had confirmed the secret would he have paid the price of a Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk, to hire Star Destruction. If it was just empty talk, would Patriarch Bojia pay such an immense price?" said Qin Yun. "However, Patriarch Bojia''s realm is in no way inferior to mine. By descending as an avatar, he can conceal himself from the heavenly secrets, preventing me from investigating him."


    "However, I have a chance to discover the movements of Kuifu''s avatar," said Qin Yun.


    "How?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Let''s give it a try."


    Qin Yun looked down.


    With a thought, his will encompassed the entirety of the Great Chang world.


    "Boom¡ª"


    He passed through the obstructions of natural space-time.


    Qin Yun plunged into the rivers of time. The Great Chang world''s countless lives would leave their marks in the river of time as they proceeded forward on the arrow of time¡­ An elder slowly turned middle-aged, a teenager, a child, a toddler, a crying baby, before returning to their mother''s womb. His mother in her youth, her mother as a teenager, and when she was a child¡­


    It was not only one person, but the entire world!


    The countless marks left behind by countless people in the world. Qin Yun was going against the arrow of time as he paid attention to all the marks left behind by countless lives until he found Kuifu''s avatar. With Qin Yun''s realm, he could immediately find him once he discovered a Skyfiend avatar!


    ¡­


    "Oh?" Yi Xiao stood by the side watching Qin Yun. His Dharmic powers were injected into the void and in a different dimension. As for Qin Yun himself, his face turned paler.


    "Hmph." Blood even began to flow out of Qin Yun''s nose.


    "I can''t."


    Qin Yun stopped.


    "Brother Yun, what did you just do?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I probed the river of time of the Great Chang world and went against the arrow of time to investigate," said Qin Yun. "With my present strength, it wouldn''t be difficult for me to infer matters that happened a hundred thousand years ago if all I want to see is something vague. However, if I were to probe each and every one of the countless beings in the Great Chang world to discover Kuifu''s avatar, it is many times more difficult."


    "I tried my best, but there''s just too many living beings to go through. My Essence Soul can''t withstand it." Qin Yun felt indignant. "Unfortunately, I have found a solution, but I can''t do it."


    "Then, can you ask someone for help?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "No one who can enter a Small World with their true bodies has a realm higher than mine," said Qin Yun. "Now, there are two solutions. One is to cultivate the Great Dao of Space-time¡­ If my grasp of space-time is better, it will make my probes even easier. There is three-dimensional space and the arrow of time. The Great Dao of Space-time is also a Great Dao of the Universe! It''s the most difficult to cultivate and I''ve never heard of anyone in the Three Realms who has managed to completely grasp the Great Dao of Space-time. The second method is to cultivate the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart. It can be used to infer the past and future, and in terms of inference, it is best in the Three Realms."


    "I did cultivate the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart a long time ago because it uses the Heavenly Cycle Great Dao as a foundation! My Sword Dao contained Heaven, Earth, and Man and shares several similarities with the Heavenly Cycle Great Dao," said Qin Yun. "As long as I cultivate in the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart and reach a more profound state, it will become easier to probe the past. This method suits me the best."


    "You want to cultivate in the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart?" Yi Xiao was alarmed. "Then, when will you make the Essence Soul breakthrough?"


    "Once the calamity of my Great Chang world is resolved."


    "Brother Yun, every year you have left is extremely important," said Yi Xiao anxiously. "The Itinerant Immortal tribulations happen once every thousand years. You only have slightly more than ten thousand years. You can''t afford to waste your time."


    "Xiaoxiao."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Why did I become an Itinerant Immortal? Wasn''t it to protect the Great Chang world? If I were to break through now and be no longer able to descend upon it with my true body while the Great Chang world still faces a future calamity, then what was the meaning in my becoming an Itinerant Immortal?"


    "But¡­" Yi Xiao''s heart ached for Qin Yun, but she understood his character.


    Qin Yun held his wife''s hands and looked into her eyes. "Don''t worry, Xiaoxiao. It won''t take too long. I believe I''ll cultivate the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart to an even more profound state in time. I''ll be able to investigate Kuifu''s past avatar."


    "You should know that this is the Great Chang world''s calamity!"


    "This root cause of this calamity has to be found before we can truly overcome it." Qin Yun looked at his wife.


    Yi Xiao looked at her husband and did not continue trying to persuade him otherwise.


    After all these years, she knew well her husband''s character.


    "Promise me you''ll resolve this matter as soon as possible. Don''t delay any further," said Yi Xiao.


    "I promise you." Qin Yun smiled.


    ¡­


    Since he had decided on delaying his Essence Soul breakthrough to remain in the Great Chang world, Qin Yun headed to the Green Touring Palace that very day to meet his master.

 569 Bestowmen

    Chapter 569: Bestowment


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace, main hall.


    The black-haired elder, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, was chatting with an elderly woman.


    "Master, the Fiend Ancestor is getting more and more fearless. He even took action with his strongest destruction body and snuck up on that monkey. Thankfully, Buddhist Ancestor Gautama took timely action and prevented the Fiend Ancestor from succeeding," said the elderly woman angrily. "Despite being a mighty Fiend Ancestor, he actually attacked juniors. It''s truly disgusting."


    "Wudang," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "Your Junior Brother Qin Yun has reduced everything he had schemed over all these years to naught. He''s in an anxious state! Therefore, when the various mighty figures appeared to kill more Skyfiends, he stooped to sneaking up on that monkey without any regard for his stature. He wanted to refine the monkey to replace his losses. Hmph, how could we allow his wish to come true? You don''t have to worry either. He was only making final, desperate attempts."


    "I understand that he won''t last much longer," said the elderly woman. "However, it is the final struggles that are the most deranged."


    "With me, Elderly Lord, and company around, he won''t amount to much," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "As for you, you need to focus on cultivation. When I no longer exist, the Green Touring Palace lineage will depend on you. Your Junior Brother Qin Yun could have helped share a burden of your load, but he hastened his tribulations and turned into an Itinerant Immortal¡­"


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure suddenly pricked up his brows. "Speak of the devil."


    A voice sounded from outside. "Master, Senior Brother Qin Yun wishes to seek an audience."


    "Let him in," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    Soon, Qin Yun walked in.


    The moment he entered, Qin Yun was also somewhat surprised by the sight of the elderly woman inside the main hall.


    Qin Yun immediately knew that she was the leader of all the disciples of Green Touring Palace¡ªEldest Senior Sister Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain! She had extremely high standing and she was an existence at the perfected Golden Immortal realm.


    "Eldest Senior Sister." Qin Yun bowed.


    "Junior Brother, you did very well in destroying the groundwork laid by the fiends in the twenty-six dominions." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain smiled. "You really raised our Green Touring Palace''s reputation."


    "I just did what I was capable of," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain smiled without a word.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun and asked, "I take it that you coming to see me means you have you thought carefully about what you want from me?"


    "Yes," Qin Yun nodded. "I need a Connate Wonder that is suitable for nurturing flying swords."


    "Just a Connate Wonder?" his eldest senior sister exclaimed from the side. "Junior Brother, your fellow disciples who gain insights into a Great Dao would usually request a Connate Numinous treasure that suits them the best. You managed to gain insights into a pinnacle Great Dao. It''s best you choose a Connate Numinous treasure that''s most suitable for you! After all, Connate Wonders are easily found, but Connate Numinous treasures aren''t."


    Connate Wonders were materials after all.


    Connate Numinous treasures¡­ were the truly rare thing! To find one that perfectly suited a cultivator was even rarer!


    "Your eldest senior sister is right," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "Connate Wonders are easily exchanged, but few would be willing to exchange truly powerful Connate Numinous treasures."


    "I do not need that," said Qin Yun. "I have an Intrinsic Flying Sword, as well as the Qingping Sword you lent me. One sword to kill the enemy and one sword to protect myself. It''s sufficient!"


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded. "Alright, since you wish for a Connate Wonder¡­"


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    Swoosh.


    Immediately, a black piece of flat rock about ten feet long appeared. Its surface was uneven with golden light dotting it. The sharp aura it had sliced through the surrounding void.


    "Chaos Pure Gold?" Qin Yun revealed a look of glee. "The Chaos Pure Gold I received the last time in the Star Cluster Hall was only about half the size of a person, but this is about ten feet long, about six times the previous one."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure said, "You have already gained insights into a pinnacle Great Dao, so just this Chaos Pure Gold combined with other supplementary items will be sufficient to nurture your Intrinsic Flying Sword to the level of a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure."


    "Thank you, Master," said Qin Yun gratefully with joy.


    Previously, Qin Yun had managed to rely on half a human-sized Chaos Pure Gold as well as Water of the First Essence, Expanding Soil, and the other Connate Wonders to allow his Intrinsic Flying Sword to make a natural breakthrough which produced a Sword Dao at the ordinary Great Dao level. In fact, after expending too many Connate Wonders, the requirements became more stringent as well.


    Now, he himself grasped a pinnacle Great Dao and his Intrinsic Flying Sword was now a lot less strict in what materials it needed as its core was a pinnacle Great Dao. Only about five times the amount used before was needed to nurture it into a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure.


    His master had resolved the most precious and important Chaos Pure Gold for him. As for the other Connate Wonders? For Qin Yun, who had killed Star Destruction, and wiped out the twenty-six dominions and killed so many Skyfiends, it was naturally an easy task to amass them.


    Qin Yun put away the Chaos Pure Gold.


    "By the way," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "You will soon be letting your Essence Soul breakthrough, so you will likely need to move from the Great Chang world. You can move to the Heavenly realm. There, I can take action at any time. The fiends would not dare to do a thing there."


    "Junior Brother, you can pay the Heavenly realm a visit and be my neighbor," said his eldest senior sister with a smile.


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Heavenly realm?


    That''s right.


    That was the true core of the Three Realms. There were numerous mighty figures and it was where the strongest powers of their side were concentrated. The fiends did not dare reach into the Heavenly realm. Besides, the Heavenly realm was vast and would be very conducive to his children''s cultivation and experiential training.


    But he still needed to discuss with Xiaoxiao on this matter.


    "Master, I''m temporarily in no hurry to make an Essence Soul breakthrough," said Qin Yun.


    "No hurry?" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure frowned slightly. "As an Itinerant Immortal, time is extremely precious. Every year, and even every day, is very important. You obviously have to allow your Essence Soul to break through immediately so as to speed up your cultivation!"


    Qin Yun replied politely, "That Patriarch Bojia has been scheming against my homeworld, the Great Chang world. The Fiend Ancestor tried to entice me with the secret of the Great Chang world. I now plan on seeking out Skyfiend Kuifu''s avatar through the river of time to discover the secret of my homeworld.


    "However, the search for the Great Chang world''s past through the river of time, and finding Skyfiend Kuifu''s avatar through the memories of billions of lifeforms, is quite difficult. Only with my true body inside the Great Chang world would I be able to make any progress," said Qin Yun. "However, to seek out Kuifu''s avatar from yesteryear, I still need to cultivate in the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart. Once my cultivation reaches a deeper level, I believe I can unravel the secret of the Great Chang world.


    "Only then can I cultivate in peace."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure frowned slightly.


    "I became an Itinerant Immortal to protect my homeworld. If I cannot solve the problem at its root, the Great Chang world will suffer another calamity in the future. I would die indignant," said Qin Yun.


    "Do whatever you wish to do." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure gently waved his hand.


    "Your humble disciple bids you farewell."


    Qin Yun immediately took his leave.


    As she watched Qin Yun leave, the Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain immediately said with a smile, "Master, don''t be angry. Junior Brother''s temperament is as such. If a carefree and eternal life was his goal, he would have escaped with Yang Jian back when Star Destruction went to the Great Chang world. Since he chose to transcend the tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal, he has already resolved himself to a path. Now, if he can''t unravel the secret of his homeworld, he will not be able to cultivate in peace. It will become a lingering obsession of his! Perhaps only with such a passion can one become a sword immortal and directly gain insights into a pinnacle Great Dao."


    "I know his temperament, but there''s only slightly more than ten thousand years left. Every year passed is one year fewer. I''m just feeling anxious for him!" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure shook his head. "If he can attain a perfected Great Dao, he would be more powerful than Bai Ze from the past as a perfected Great Dao sword immortal. Furthermore, I will think of means to help his Intrinsic Flying Sword be nurtured to the Connate Cardinal treasure level. A perfected Great Dao sword immortal with an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand might be able to survive the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation."


    "But all of this only works under the premise that he attains a perfected Great Dao! If he doesn''t attain that, everything is pointless," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "I have always been thinking that in the future, when the Green Touring Palace lineage has you and your junior brother, the both of you shouldering the burden would leave me at ease. But now, he''s wasting his time!"


    "A beard lathered is half shaved," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain with a smile. "Master, Junior Brother''s Dao heart will be more flawless once he resolves the calamity his homeworld faces. Perhaps it would even aid his cultivation even more."


    "Let''s hope it''s as you say." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere in Green Touring Palace.


    Qin Yun walked through the halls. He could sense the displeasure of his master, but he never hesitated in things he ought to do or regretted his choices.


    "Senior Brother Qin."


    "Senior Brother Qin."


    Many disciples greeted him reverently along the way.


    Qin Yun was now one of the top ten existences in Green Touring Palace. These disciples who were mainly sixth-firmament disciples rarely had a chance to see such powerful senior brothers or sisters.


    "Myriad Dharma Repository." Qin Yun soon arrived in front of Myriad Dharma Repository which was lofty with its nine floors.


    "Entry into the Myriad Dharma Repository''s ninth floor requires attainment of a Golden Immortal Dao fruit. Legend has it that there are Dharmic formulations that can only be cultivated by those who grasp a Great Dao. There are also all sorts of secrets of the Three Realms in it." Qin Yun had always been very curious over the Myriad Dharma Repository''s ninth floor. He immediately strode in.

 570 Ends of the Three Realms

    Chapter 570: Ends of the Three Realms


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Ninth floor of the Myriad Dharma Repository.


    It was very quiet in here, with Qin Yun being the only person inside reading.


    "The records my Green Touring Palace has of the Three Realms'' Connate Numinous treasures are considered very complete," Qin Yun mused while reading. "There are probably only a very small number which have gone unrecorded."


    Intelligence regarding Connate Numinous treasures was very important. He had to understand them ahead of time.


    If not, he might accidentally offend someone he could not afford to.


    "The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s Golden Jade Ring is truly powerful. Ordinary pinnacle Golden Immortals could succumb to him if they were not careful. If I were using my Intrinsic Flying Sword, I''d probably have to put it away!" Qin Yun read the description in the book and turned wistful. "Thankfully, Master lent me the Qingping Sword, giving me greater confidence."


    The Golden Jade Ring and Qingping Sword were Connate Cardinal treasures. Not anyone could use such Connate Cardinal treasures. Even ordinary Golden Immortals and Buddhas would not be able to deliver the full strength of a Connate Cardinal treasure even if they happened to chance upon one.


    Qin Yun had grasped a pinnacle Great Dao, allowing him to fully produce the Qingping Sword''s might.


    When in Small Worlds, Qin Yun was absolutely invincible.


    But among the various mighty figures, Qin Yun had to be careful. After all, the various kinds of Connate Numinous treasures were all different. Even Yang Jian and Monkey Sun had to be careful about suffering a loss. Qin Yun did not have a body as powerful as those two and so had to be even more careful. Therefore, at the mighty figure level, it was actually more unlikely one would engage in combat. There was the fear that they could lose their lives and turn all their years of cultivation to naught.


    After all, who knew if the enemy had a Connate Numinous treasure that was meant to counter them? Perhaps, someone could specially borrow a powerful Connate Numinous treasure in order to take them down.


    "Connate Wonders¡­ Oh? At the ends of the Three Realms, inside the Chaos?" Qin Yun flipped through a book which introduced the various kinds of Connate Wonders and the general location where they could be found.


    "The Chaos is boundless. Back when Pangu split apart the heaven and earth, he brandished his Pangu Ax to split apart the Chaos, but all he did was divide a region amid the Chaos, giving birth to the Three Realms. At the ends of the Three Realms is Chaos." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Danger lurks throughout the endless Chaos. For instance, some ancient Chaos Godfiends still remain inside the Chaos. However, the Chaos is also full of opportunities! Connate Wonders, Connate Numinous treasures¡­ many of them were born in the Chaos. If one was lucky while inside, perhaps one could obtain a Connate Numinous treasure.


    "However, according to the book records, over all this time, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor, and some Chaos Godfiends, would frequently travel the Chaos. Hoping to find Connate Wonders and Connate Numinous treasures in the regions relatively closer to the Three Realms is unlikely. However, if one goes too far out, even perfected Golden Immortals can get lost and never return. Only the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor dare to probe deep into the Chaos.


    "Getting lost?


    "Once one is too far in, they would fail to sense the existence of the Three Realms. Without any sense of direction, to the point of hardly being able to grasp the flow of time, how would one be able to return once they are lost in the Chaos?" Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    ¡­


    After reading through many reports, Qin Yun finally came to the five manuals placed in the middle of the Myriad Dharma Repository''s ninth floor.


    The Five Elemental Sword Sutra, the Infinite Mother Scrolls, the Cavern of Mystery Sutra, the Jade Luminaries Sword Sutra, and the Supreme Pure One''s Twelve Volumes.


    "The Five Elemental Sword Sutra was created by Eldest Senior Brother. What I learned previously only allowed me to attain a Great Dao! But what is placed here is the portion that leads to the perfected Great Dao. The Infinite Mother Scrolls were created by Eldest Senior Sister. The remaining Cavern of Mystery Sutra, Jade Luminaries Sword Sutra, and Supreme Pure One''s Twelve Volumes were created by Master¡­ All of these are at the perfected Great Dao level." Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    This was what heritage was.


    Manuals of perfected Great Dao were impossible to find outside.


    Yet, there were five here!


    "Immortal Vanquishing Hall should be where Master''s highest attainments are." Qin Yun was in no rush. He planned to enter seclusion in the Immortal Vanquishing Hall after his Essence Soul broke through to receive the paramount heritage of the Green Touring Palace.


    Following that, Qin Yun first began reading the Jade Luminaries Sword Sutra.


    Just this read took him a longer time than reading his five manuals from before.


    Just memorization was naturally fast, but he could not help but imagine and make connections as he was reading. As ideas came to him, he found himself engrossed in it for a day and night.


    "So this is a perfected Great Dao."


    "The advice from others always helps one to overcome one''s shortcomings."


    "Once I resolve the matters of the Great Chang world, I''ll be able to enter seclusion in peace to figure this out." Qin Yun held back his cultivation and put down the manual.


    "I have to quickly raise my insights into the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart. Master clearly doesn''t like my wasting of time," Qin Yun pondered. "I have to raise it as soon as possible, and the best way¡­ is to find a treasure that can aid my cultivation of the Heavenly Cycle Great Dao."


    Heavenly Cycle Great Dao.


    It was similarly a Great Dao that led to a perfected Great Dao! For instance, the ancient demon''s Celestial Thearch and Emperor Polestar had cultivated in the Heavenly Cycle Great Dao, making them existences at the perfected Golden Immortal level.


    "Connate Numinous treasures contain a Great Dao in them and are most suitable as study material." The information regarding the Connate Numinous treasures in the Three Realms surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind. "And the most suitable one for me is the Connate Numinous treasure, the Eighteen Flying Stars."


    The Eighteen Flying Stars was refined by the ancient demons'' Heavenly Courts with the help of Connate Wonders.


    The Ancient Heavenly Courts was most famous for its Stellar Heavenly Cycle Array, and the Eighteen Flying Stars was considered a simplified basic version.


    "The Eighteen Flying Stars has exchanged owners several times after the Ancient Heavenly Courts was destroyed. Now, they are in the hands of Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous of Mount Green Top''s Purple Cave." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Time to meet him."


    ******


    Heavenly realm. Mt. Green Top, Purple Cave.


    Outside the cave abode.


    A youth was kneeling there with his face pale. His breathing was weak but he continued persisting.


    A Dao Child was sweeping at the entrance, causing a rustling sound. He swept the area patiently and when he came to the youth''s side, he said, "It''s best you return. Don''t continue kneeling. It''s useless no matter how long you kneel."


    "I will keep kneeling. I will make Perfect Sovereign see my sincerity. Even if I die from kneeling, I''ll continue kneeling," said the youth weakly through his pale lips.


    "It''s useless even if you kneel to your death. Numerous people in the Three Realms wish to be my master''s disciple. You think Master will take you in as a disciple just because you are kneeling here? Dream on." The Dao Child shook his head. "You were able to strive and get all the way here and Senior Brother gave you a chance. But clearly, your talents are lacking. You do not qualify to enter my Purple Cave. It''s best you return to where you came from."


    With that said, the Dao Child continued sweeping the grounds.


    Not far away, a young girl could not help but run over with a water flask. She immediately said, "Young Master, drink some water. You have been kneeling for three months without a sip of water. You are deliberately not using your Dharmic powers to support you. You won''t last long."


    "Go away." The youth waved his hand.


    "Young Master!" The girl turned anxious as teardrops rolled down her cheeks.


    "Steeling himself without the use of Dharmic powers?" The sweeping Dao Child shook his head as he sighed. "I have seen so much all these years. It''s useless."


    "Young Master, let''s not wait here. Let''s find other Exalted Immortals," said the girl anxiously. "I''m sure one of them will be willing to take you in as a disciple."


    "Perfect Sovereign is a pinnacle mighty figure of the Three Realms. Only by becoming his disciple will I have a chance of seeking revenge!" said the youth through clenched teeth. "If not, it will all just be a waste of time."


    "Young Master." The girl was burning with anxiety.


    The youth waved his hand. "Leave." With that said, he glared angrily at the girl.


    All the girl could do was stand to the side with the water flask in hand.


    Her young master was a cultivation genius, attaining a Connate Golden Core at the age of sixteen. It was not difficult for him to attain an Essence Soul and he had a chance of becoming a Skyimmortal. However, his enemy was just too terrifying. Ordinary Skyimmortals were like ants in front of him. He went through great difficulty before arriving at Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous''s cave abode.


    Silence returned to the cave abode''s periphery.


    The youth continued kneeling as the girl watched silently from afar. As for the Dao Child, he continued sweeping the grounds slowly.


    Suddenly¡ª


    A figure appeared out of the void.


    It was a youth carrying a dark green sword on his back. His sudden appearance was noticed by the kneeling youth, the girl, and the sweeping Dao Child.


    "Greetings, Senior." The Dao Child immediately walked over and bowed.


    "I''ll be troubling you to pass a message to Dao Brother Pristine Void," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Just say that Qin Yun is here to pay him a visit."


    Dao Brother Pristine Void?


    The Dao Child was alarmed! With the standing his master, Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous, had in the Three Realms, few people had the right to address him as Dao Brother Pristine Void.


    "Dao Brother Pristine Void?" The kneeling youth could not help but look at Qin Yun. "Who is he? He seems to be rather acquainted with Perfect Sovereign?"


    From the side, the girl silently moved to the kneeling youth''s side and gestured with her eyes.


    The youth understood that his maidservant was urging him to cozy up to this powerful figure. Perhaps, the person in front of him was a mighty figure in the Three Realms.


    And at that moment, Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous had already been made aware of what was happening outside Purple Cave. He took the initiative to walk out of his chamber.


    "Master." When the Dao Child saw his master approaching, he immediately reported, "There''s a man named Qin Yun outside¡­"


    However, Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous did not seem to listen to his report as he gave the direct order, "Quick, open the doors. I wish to welcome Brother Qin myself."


    Immediately, all his disciples frantically rushed to open the doors.


    "Qin Yun?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin who swept through the twenty-six dominions of the Three Realms?"


    "I heard that the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor lent his Connate Cardinal treasure, the Qingping Sword, to Sword Immortal Qin!" These personal disciples of Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous were well-informed. They engaged in secret voice transmission discussions while opening the doors.


    Rumble¡ª


    Following that, the entire door to Purple Cave opened.


    Disciples stood to the sides, with the strongest few disciples following behind Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous.


    "Hahaha¡­" Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous laughed as he walked out. His Daoist robes fluttered in the wind and when he came near, he immediately gave a deep bow, "Brother Qin, please accept my respects!"


    "Dao Brother Pristine Void, I can''t accept that." Qin Yun immediately went forward to help him up.


    "I''m thanking you on behalf of all life in the Three Realms'' twenty-six dominions. You have to accept it." Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous smiled as he stood up. "Come, follow me in to have a chat." With that said, he held onto Qin Yun''s left arm and warmly invited him in.


    The youth kneeling not far away immediately got up and took a few steps forward before plopping down to the ground, kneeling. He shouted, "Senior!"

 571 Trade

    Chapter 571: Trade


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun and Pristine Void turned their heads to look at the source of the voice. As for the disciples of Purple Cave, they looked over in displeasure.


    How dare a mortal speak when two mighty figures were meeting?


    "Senior." The youth knelt down and hurriedly said. "Please take me in as a disciple. You can request me to do anything. Please give me a chance¡­"


    Qin Yun did a simple inference.


    Inference of the billions of beings in the Great Chang world''s past took a toll on him, but to infer a youth at the Connate Golden Core realm? It only took a mere thought for him to tell everything the youth had experienced since he was born. He could even infer all the possibilities the youth would encounter in the future.


    "What a din." Pristine Void frowned and flicked his sleeve, sending the youth flying backward involuntarily. He came to a stop only when he flew to the corner outside the entrance.


    The moment the youth landed, he immediately knelt down. Just as he was about to continue speaking, he realized he could not produce any sound.


    "Brother Qin, let''s head in." Pristine Void smiled as he continued leading Qin Yun in.


    The youth burned with anxiety as he tried to speak; yet, he could not produce any voice. His eyes were filled with anxiety.


    Qin Yun gave the youth a glance and smiled before entering the cave abode with Pristine Void. The extremely strong disciples immediately followed. There were also the disciples in charge of closing the main door! The cave abode''s main door was usually closed. Only the side doors were used in day-to-day activities. For instance, the Dao Child went in and out by the side doors.


    "Punk, how audacious you are to dare interrupt Sword Immortal Qin and my master." A relatively weak in-name disciple who was a third firmament Skyimmortal berated angrily.


    "It''s only because Sword Immortal Qin and Master have a good temper that you were not smacked to death with a single strike."


    The in-name disciples who were lower in stature unleashed a tirade before returning to the cave abode.


    The Dao Child could not help but follow in to listen carefully. As a Dao Child, he did not know of Sword Immortal Qin''s accolades.


    "Young Master, are you alright?" The maidservant immediately ran over.


    Kneeling there, the youth''s eyes were bright as he whispered, "I''m fine. Perfect Sovereign enjoys an esteemed stature. Although he brushed me away, he did not injure me! Did you see it? When I was begging, Senior Qin actually smiled at me before entering the cave abode."


    The maidservant was taken aback as she slowly nodded. "Yes, that Senior Qin did smile at you."


    "I must have caught Senior Qin''s fancy," whispered the youth. "Perhaps, he might take me in as a disciple when he comes out."


    However, the maidservant was somewhat ambivalent and uncertain.


    A smile?


    Her young master had caught his fancy?


    Soon.


    The Dao Child walked out from a side door.


    "Dao Brother, Dao Brother. Tell me what kind of person Senior Qin is," said the kneeling youth.


    The Dao Child walked over and said in excitement. "He''s now an extremely famous person in all of the Three Realms. He wiped out countless fiends from the twenty-six dominions of the Three Realms! The Fiend Ancestor even appeared in person but failed to stop him. Furthermore, he is the disciple of the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. He was even bestowed a Connate Cardinal treasure, the Qingping Sword."


    "He''s also a mighty figure?" The kneeling youth was alarmed.


    "What do you mean ''also a mighty figure?'' He has killed quite a number that were at the strength of a mighty figure." The Dao Child said with a beaming countenance, "He''s the strongest Itinerant Immortal of the Three Realms! It is unfortunate, however, that he''s an Itinerant Immortal."


    "He has killed several mighty figure-leveled fiends?" The youth turned even more excited. That was good. Coming under the tutelage of such a master was promising.


    "Itinerant Immortal?" The youth was puzzled. "I heard that there''s no hope in Itinerant Immortal cultivation. Why did this senior choose to become a Itinerant Immortal? Was what I knew wrong?"


    The Dao Child curled his lips. "What you know is right. Itinerant Immortals barely live over ten thousand years. That''s why you shouldn''t count on Sword Immortal Qin. Although he is immensely powerful, he will need to focus on cultivation to break through the limits of Itinerant Immortals. He wouldn''t have time to take you in as a disciple."


    "Ah!"


    The youth was taken aback.


    "Stop dreaming. If I were you, I would quickly leave the mountain and stop wasting time here," said the Dao Child as he continued sweeping the grounds.


    "No time for disciples?" The youth was stunned before he gently shook his head. "But he clearly smiled at me? There must be something deeper¡­"


    "He''s mad!"


    The Dao Child curled his lips.


    ******


    Inside Purple Cave, Qin Yun and Pristine Void sat facing each other in a tea room. They were sipping tea which the Perfect Sovereign had made himself.


    The tea aroma was faint, but it filled the room.


    The two discussed Qin Yun''s past exploits of sweeping across the twenty-six dominions.


    "You are lauding me. Thank you, Dao Brother Pristine Void," said Qin Yun.


    "There''s nothing exaggerated in what I said. The Fiend Ancestor was willing to pay such an immense price for the countless fiend worlds in the twenty-six dominions. You probably could have extorted two or three Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasures from him," said Pristine Void with a smile. "And you were be able to resist the Fiend Ancestor''s enticement. Few mighty figures in the Three Realms are capable of doing so."


    Qin Yun laughed.


    The Fiend Ancestor had indeed offered him many deals. He was allowed to request any treasures! He was also tempted with guaranteed reincarnation and the secret of his homeworld.


    "Haha." Qin Yun did not continue. Instead, he looked out and smiled. "If I didn''t make a mistake, that kneeling youth outside is fated with you. Why do you continue to have him kneel there?"


    Pristine Void stroked his beard and smiled. "Brother Qin, your inference techniques are quite impressive. We do share a tied fate, but it isn''t the right time. He still needs to leave the mountain to experience three life-and-death calamities before he can be recruited! Now, all he has on his mind is revenge. His Dao heart isn''t firm enough. Even if he were to become my disciple, what would he amount to?"


    "Three life-and-death calamities?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. "It''s said that the Jade Void lineage is strict on accepting disciples. It''s indeed as the rumors say."


    "Ordinary in-name disciples can be taken in, but he is someone who will become my personal disciple. I naturally cannot be casual about it," said Pristine Void with a smile.


    "What if he dies during his calamities?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Then, I''ll receive him after he undergoes Samsara. He can hone his Dao heart in his next life. If he reaches the requirements, he will become a disciple of mine," said Pristine Void. "If he still can''t do so in three incarnations, that will be the end of our shared fate."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He naturally could not interfere in someone''s disciple recruitment process. Furthermore, he only had ten thousand plus years for himself. He had no time to waste on teaching disciples. Even his children were only given simple guidance, allowing them to hone themselves independently.


    "By the way," Pristine Void said with a smile. "Is there a reason you''ve come to my humble abode? Feel free to say so. I''ll definitely help you if it''s possible."


    "To be honest, I do have a request," said Qin Yun.


    Pristine Void nodded slightly as he listened carefully.


    "I require the Connate Numinous treasure, the Eighteen Flying Stars," said Qin Yun. "Dao Brother Pristine Void, I hope you would be able to part with it."


    "The Eighteen Flying Stars?" Pristine Void frowned slightly. "That is a Connate Numinous treasure refined by the Ancient Heavenly Courts. It can form domains to trap and kill enemies. It''s an extremely powerful and multi-faceted Connate Numinous treasure which I like a lot."


    It was the truth.


    As one of the famous twelve Golden Immortals of the Jade Void Palace, Perfect Sovereign Pristine Void Virtuous was one of the rare ones who were adept at artifact refinement. He had quite a number of Connate Numinous treasures which he had bestowed to his disciples.


    However, he had always kept the Eighteen Flying Stars with him. Having it form a domain to fight enemies was advantageous. It was also good for trapping enemies. As for killing enemies and life preservation, he had even more powerful Connate Numinous treasures.


    "Please raise your conditions," said Qin Yun.


    Pristine Void thought for a moment before saying, "This Eighteen Flying Stars'' most important aspect is the domain it can form. Once the domain forms, I hold a terrain advantage! I do not have a second domain-type Connate Numinous treasure. Therefore, if you want to take away my Eighteen Flying Stars¡­ you will have to give me the Great Yin Disk."


    "Of course." Yi Yun nodded.


    The Eighteen Flying Stars was a lot more valuable than the Great Yin Disk.


    "The Great Yin Disk is able to form domains, but the Eighteen Flying Stars is more rounded and a lot more valuable," said Pristine Void. "If you wish to make the exchange, you will have to give me the pair of arms of Star Destruction in addition to the Great Yin Disk."


    Pristine Void''s eyes were somewhat glowing. "If you are willing to make that exchange, it''s a deal!"


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment.


    Star Destruction¡­


    As a Connate Godfiend and a member of the spirit-devouring lineage, he had deliberately stayed at the thresholds of the Skyfiend realm, allowing him to devour countless beings in a Small World. The essence of his cultivation was his pair of arms! It was also the most valuable part of Star Destruction. They were a lot more valuable than the Great Yin Disk or the Sky Scraping Heaven Sealing Chain. They were probably worth half a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure.


    Qin Yun nodded after some thought. "Alright, I agree. Thank you, Dao Brother Pristine Void."


    "Haha, I should be the one thanking you, Brother Qin." Pristine Void revealed a look of glee.

 572 Samsara Dew

    Chapter 572: Samsara Dew


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Outside Purple Cave.


    The kneeling youth was still pondering. "Why did Sword Immortal Qin smile at me? What profound meaning does his smile have?"


    Suddenly¡ª


    The youth sensed something as he looked up.


    "Dao Brother Pristine Void, there''s no need to send me off." Amid laughter, Sword Immortal Qin with the dark green sword on his back flew straight out of the deep recesses of the cave abode. He then vanished after flying high into the sky.


    "He''s gone?"


    The youth was taken aback. "He''s leaving just like that?"


    He even had thoughts that Sword Immortal Qin had plans for him.


    "How can it be that simple to become a mighty figure''s disciple?" said the Dao Child with a laugh. "I already told you to leave. Kneeling here to your death won''t work."


    The youth turned somewhat hesitant, but he shortly clenched his teeth and continued kneeling.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun left Purple Cave, he visited one mighty figure after another. First, he sought out Connate Wonders which could be used in conjunction with the Chaos Pure Gold to nourish his Misty Rain Sword. Second, he sought out the cultivation enhancement item, Samsara Dew. After all, he only had about ten thousand years of cultivation time; every year of cultivation needed to be done at high efficiency.


    He did not seek to match the cultivation speed inside the Myriad Dharma Pool, but he needed to try his best to get as close as he could.


    And in the entire Three Realms, the best cultivation enhancement item was the Myriad Dharma Pool''s Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid. Ranked second was the Samsara Dew that sourced from Samsara.


    ******


    In the deepest depths of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss sat a lofty figure. He had green skin and a simple fur coat was draped over him. He had four arms and three eyes. However, the third eye remained indefinitely closed.


    Even though it was closed, his third eye released the aura of Major Destruction!


    He was the Fiend Ancestor''s strongest destruction body!


    "Whoosh." The void in front of the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body distorted. Far ahead, it connected to a land of mystery. There, a colorful blinding light shrouded a blurry figure who sat cross-legged.


    "Brother Black Lotus," said the blurry figure. "Why are you suddenly seeking me out?"


    "Qin Yun has left his Small World to head for the Heavenly realm," said the Fiend Ancestor. "Help me kill him."


    "Do you hate him that much?" said the blurry figure with a laugh. "Brother Black Lotus, you won''t be able to last long in the Three Realms, nor can you protect those disciples and grand-disciples of yours for long. Why are you so calculative with a junior? That is unlike you."


    The Fiend Ancestor smiled. "I naturally am not being calculative with him. I''m more interested in that Qingping Sword of his."


    "Qingping Sword?" The figure was enlightened as he laughed. "Although I seldom return to the Three Realms, I do know the current situation. I know that this Qin Yun had destroyed everything you set up in the twenty-six dominions. He is augmented with great merit, and has become a hero of the Daoists and Buddhists. By attacking him, we will probably provoke Numinous Treasure and the rest."


    The Fiend Ancestor immediately said, "As long as you kill him and bring the Qingping Sword to me, I''ll give you the opportunity for Dao attainment which you have always desired."


    "This¡­" The blurry figure warped slightly.


    "With your strength, you should be able to kill him in one strike. What''s there to be afraid of? Why, are you afraid of Numinous Treasure?" The Fiend Ancestor scoffed. "As long as you kill Qin Yun and immediately return to your Great World, what can Numinous Treasure do?"


    The figure laughed. "Brother Black Lotus, the Qingping Sword is a Connate Cardinal treasure which Numinous Treasure used to gain dominance in the Chaos back then. And Qin Yun is a mere Itinerant Immortal. He can only live for about ten thousand years. Numinous Treasure will definitely not let him have the Qingping Sword to him forever¡­ It''s at most a temporary loan.


    "There must be some ''backdoor'' on the Qingping Sword. I''m not afraid of Numinous Treasure in a Great World, but in the Heavenly realm¡­ Numinous Treasure is able to release all his strength. Furthermore, how can a Connate Cardinal treasure he lends his disciple be something so easily snatched? Perhaps, I''ll be trapped by Numinous Treasure''s Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array before I can even grab it. Then, all my years of cultivation would be for naught."


    "Fine. If you lack the guts, forget it." The Fiend Ancestor shook his head.


    "Can my opportunity for Dao attainment be exchanged for something else?" the blurry figure''s voice turned slightly hoarser.


    "You will have to pay a price for anything you want. How can you benefit without risking your life?" The Fiend Ancestor laughed. "I''ve already given you another method. Either you capture that monkey and bring him to me, or you kill Qin Yun. Give me the Qingping Sword and I can give you what you want. However, you are afraid of this and that, leaving me quite helpless."


    "To take advantage of an opportunity for Dao attainment, one must be alive to use it first. To live, I cannot cross their bottom lines. Brother Black Lotus, forgive me for not being able to agree." After the blurry figure said that, the communication was severed.


    The Fiend Ancestor frowned slightly. "Even he has rejected me? All of those who have survived for so long are all too careful."


    From the Chaos to this very day, many ancient existences had perished¡­


    How could any one of the ones who remained alive not be extremely cunning?


    "If I can devour the Qingping Sword, it would make up for the loss of the twenty-six dominions. Unfortunately, none of the old bastards are willing to take action." Fiend Ancestor''s eyes were filled with covetous desire before he closed his eyes and stopped thinking about it. The ones he had attempted to request help from faced no obstruction in the Heavenly realm, but if his true body were to enter the Heavenly realm, he would suffer immense obstruction. It would alert the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor immediately.


    ******


    After spending more than half a day meeting mighty figures, Qin Yun returned to the Great Chang world from the Heavenly realm.


    Yi Xiao was waiting for him in the garden and could not help but be delighted seeing him return.


    Qin Yun smiled. "The spoils of war from killing Star Destruction, a few Fiend Supremacies, and countless Skyfiends¡­ have nearly been expended. All that''s left is some of the array formation items from the twenty-six fiendish lairs," said Qin Yun with a smile. "However, that''s still not bad. I bought all that I needed."


    "What did you buy?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Half of the treasures were used to exchange for the Connate Numinous treasure, the Eighteen Flying Stars. Twenty percent of the treasures were used to exchange for Connate Wonders used to nurture my flying sword. The remaining thirty percent was used to exchange for Samsara Dew," explained Qin Yun.


    "If only you could exchange for Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid," said Yi Xiao. "In terms of cultivation enhancement items, it ranks first in the Three Realms while Samsara Dew only ranks second."


    Qin Yun shook his head. "In the future, when my Essence Soul breaks through to become a pinnacle Golden Immortal, my Essence Soul will be too powerful. The amount of Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid expended would also increase. A year''s expenditure will match that of a Connate Numinous treasure. To have enough Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid for ten thousand years is not only something I can''t afford, but an amount that all the Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid in the Three Realms combined together couldn''t match."


    Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid was the rainbow-colored numinous liquid in the Myriad Dharma Pool.


    Typically, Green Touring Palace disciples entered the pool for three years. Every year''s expenditure was only a hundredth of a Golden Immortal disciple''s expenditure! Just a hundredth of the quantity was sufficient.


    After attaining a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, one could enter for another three years.


    "Besides, only the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor have means of collecting Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid," said Qin Yun. "It''s nearly impossible to buy it. Even if it was purchasable, it will only be in extremely tiny quantities and very expensive. It''s only suitable for breakthroughs at critical moments. As for Samsara Dew, it''s much better. It also aids cultivation greatly."


    "Alright." Yi Xiao nodded. "Brother Yun, when do you plan to begin your seclusion?"


    "Tonight," said Qin Yiyi. "I''ll cultivate with my all during this period of time. Help me watch Yiyi and Huan''er. They are not to leave the Great Chang world without my permission."


    "Don''t worry. Both of them are very obedient. Besides, the Great Chang world''s array formation is in place. The both of them won''t be able to leave even if they wished to," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    ¡­


    That night, he accompanied his wife and children for dinner. After exhorting his children, he began his seclusion.


    In his chamber.


    "Samsara Dew." Qin Yun held a black jade bottle. Just this tiny bottle was worth four Connate Numinous treasures. It was about the price of Star Destruction''s pair of arms.


    He pulled open the stopper.


    The dew inside surged as one drop flew out under the influence of Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers. Qin Yun opened his mouth and imbibed it. The droplet quickly spread out after entering his mouth, washing over every spot of his Essence Soul.


    Despite feeling a little intoxicated, his mind could not help but generate ideas. Matters that once puzzled him were now rapidly resolved.


    Samsara Dew similarly targeted the Essence Soul''s core. It had the effect of increasing one''s perceptivity! It was only slightly inferior to the Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid''s effects. However, it was also ranked second in the Three Realms, making it extremely precious.


    Its side effect was that it easily intoxicated the consumer!


    Even perfected Golden Immortal mighty figures would end up drunk from imbibing a mouthful.


    Qin Yun only took one drop at a time.


    "The Dao of the Heavenly Cycle." Qin Yun flipped his hand as the Eighteen Flying Stars floated around him like eighteen constellations in their natural revolution. They contained the charms of the Heavenly Cycle.


    Qin Yun pondered over it.


    After consuming Samsara Dew and being aided by the Eighteen Flying Stars, his speed at studying the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart was naturally very fast.


    Days passed one after another.

 573 Two Centuries

    Chapter 573: Two Centuries


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    While Qin Yun remained in seclusion, countless fiendish worlds in the twenty-six dominions were being recaptured. After a campaign that spanned two years and three months, all these fiendish worlds were recaptured, including the Small Worlds which had extremely thin Heaven Earth Essence Qi that only allowed one to cultivate to the Connate realm. The Heavenly Courts, Daoists, and Buddhists spared no effort in recapturing them as the Heavenly Dao of the Three Realms permeated them again.


    This was a matter of great merit. Every faction naturally put a great deal of effort in this.


    Merit continuously descended onto Qin Yun''s body for the entirety of the two years and three months.


    "What''s happening?"


    In the main hall of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Bojia Palace, Patriarch Bojia sat high on his throne as he muttered to himself, frowning, "I''ve investigated the karma, and the karma lines lead directly to the Great Chang world. Why is Qin Yun still inside the Great Chang world?"


    "He remains in a Small World and hasn''t made a breakthrough in his Essence Soul?"


    "That could be explained as him being afraid that we fiends would defend the countless fiendish worlds in the twenty-six dominions. Therefore, by not making a breakthrough, he can reinforce any Small World at any time and serve as a deterrent against us fiends. But now, all the fiendish worlds in the twenty-six dominions have been recaptured by the Daoists and Buddhists. Why isn''t he making a breakthrough yet? How strange!"


    "If he doesn''t make a breakthrough, I have no way of attacking the Great Chang world." Bojia frowned.


    "The thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone¡­"


    Bojia''s four faces were filled with desire. There was a burning glow in all of his eyes.


    Everything he had accumulated for years paled in comparison.


    "As long as I obtain the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone, I can exchange it for several treasures that suit me. My strength will increase sharply," muttered Bojia. "This Qin Yun became an Itinerant Immortal and is destined to live for another ten thousand plus years. By making a breakthrough with his Essence Soul, his cultivation speed would be faster. Yet, he''s deliberately not breaking through and staying in the Small World?


    "Could it be that he''s afraid I might attack the Great Chang world again?" Bojia suddenly made a guess and shook his head with a scoff. "He can''t be that stupid. How long can he defend it? Once his ten thousand plus years are up, he will be reduced to dust under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. Ten thousand plus years is nothing worth mentioning to me."


    "If he''s not doing it to protect the Great Chang world, then what?" pondered Bojia.


    "Forget it. There''s no need to fret over him.


    "All I need to do is wait patiently.


    "The thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone is tiny when compared to the mass of a planet. It''s impossible for them to discover it!" thought Bojia. "It will ultimately be mine as long as no one discovers it."


    ******


    Bojia kept waiting.


    Many mighty figures in the Three Realms would also occasionally check in on the dazzling Itinerant Immortal.


    "Strange. Why is he still in a Small World? Isn''t it imperative for him to make a breakthrough with his Essence Soul and speed up his cultivation so as to deal with the Itinerant Immortal tribulations?"


    "Yes, it''s very odd. Now, every year, or even every single day is extremely precious to him. Yet he isn''t making a breakthrough and remains in a Small World? How odd. I can''t figure it out."


    There were many mighty figures discussing the matter.


    "Has Qin Yun resigned himself to despair after becoming an Itinerant Immortal?"


    "That''s unlikely. His Essence Soul cultivated for only a few millennia before he gained insights into a pinnacle Great Dao! If his Essence Soul is raised to the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, another ten thousand plus years of cultivation should give him hope of attaining a perfected Great Dao."


    "Hope? I think it''s more like slim hope! Ever since Daoist Wen broke through and gained a perfected Great Dao, establishing the spirit-devouring lineage, there has not been a new perfected Great Dao in all the Three Realms. Even the living ones are mostly Chaos Godfiends who were born before the Chaos developed. Even the Dao Ancestor, Goddess N¨¹wa, and the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation were born from the Chaos. For a mortal to attain a perfect Great Dao? Hmph."


    "There are always exceptions."


    ¡­


    Many mighty figures discussed the reason for Qin Yun''s staying in a Small World because he had stayed there for too long!


    In a blink of an eye, two centuries had passed, all with him staying in the Small World.


    Qin Yiyi cooked a meal herself while Han Lin helped out to the side.


    "This bullfrog has to be whole. You can''t cut it. Go away," said Qin Yiyi immediately. "Double Wood, the Hot Oil Noodles are ready! Quickly mix it and send it to the dining hall. Hot Oil Noodles are my father''s favorite."


    "Okay." Han Lin went to the side and mixed the noodles, letting the oil seep deep in.


    While mixing the noodles, Han Lin said, "Sis Yiyi, you said that we can get married once Uncle breaks through. However, Uncle hasn''t broken through all this while and remains in this Small World. It''s been two centuries¡­"


    "What''s the rush? How can my father''s matters be less important than marriage?" Qin Yiyi looked at him.


    Han Lin muttered, "But I''ve waited for two centuries."


    "My mom has been worrying all this while. She wishes for him to break his Essence Soul through as soon as possible. My dad is also focused on cultivation. How do you expect me to raise the subject?" said Qin Yiyi. "Besides, is there a difference having our marriage a few centuries earlier or later? It''s only a formality."


    "Alright." Han Lin nodded.


    "Alright, stop mixing. Quickly send it to the dining hall," said Qin Yiyi. "Once you do so, quickly return and continue helping me."


    Han Lin hurriedly carried it to the dining hall.


    ¡­


    Dining hall.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sat there as Meng Huan helped pour the wine.


    "Yiyi still isn''t back?" asked Qin Yun.


    "She''s cooking for you," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "I was chased out when I tried to help. Instead, she got Han Lin to help her." Meng Huan sat down after pouring the wine. He mused, "Looks like she was afraid she would trouble an elder brother like me."


    "Women tend to align with their partners," said Qin Yun with a smile as he ate and drank. "Yiyi''s culinary skills are really improving."


    "Here it comes!" Han Lin carried a wooden tray that had a few bowls of Hot Oil Noodles on it.


    Qin Yun took a big bowl of Hot Oil Noodles and took a few big mouthfuls before downing a cup of wine. Immediately, he felt great as he leisurely continued eating. Meng Huan busied himself with the pouring of wine.


    "Han Lin, tell Yiyi to stop cooking. There are already so many dishes," said Qin Yun.


    "They will all be done soon. There''s only a few dishes left." Han Lin smiled before running back.


    Cultivators had good control of fire, so the dishes were quick to prepare.


    Moments later.


    Qin Yiyi and Han Lin joined the table as the family ate and chatted. It was a very delightful conversation.


    When they were almost done, Meng Huan asked, "Dad, how was your seclusion this time?" Qin Yiyi, Han Lin, and Yi Xiao immediately paid attention. They were very concerned about Qin Yun every time he came out of seclusion. However, it did not feel right to hound him with questions; therefore, they took turns asking! It could be Yi Xiao the first time, the daughter next, and then the son.


    "It was quite okay." Qin Yun did not elaborate.


    No one probed further.


    Qin Yun sighed emotively in secret.


    In fact, his family always wished he would quickly have his Essence Soul break through. Even his son and daughter understood that, as an Itinerant Immortal, the stronger his Essence Soul was, the faster he cultivated.


    However, to flow against the river of time to probe the past of billions of lifeforms in such a massive world, where there were huge number of beings coming into existence and dying at every moment, the burden of probing them simultaneously was just too great. The realm required was extremely high. Although Qin Yun was talented in the Heavenly Cycle Great Dao, it was still very different from his Sword Dao. Qin Yun''s Heavenly Cycle Great Dao had long reached the pinnacle Skyimmortal level, but to make another breakthrough? That would be difficult.


    "Besides, there''s the disturbance from karma." Qin Yun frowned. "I owed some karma from the Lightning Beast Manor. Once I reach the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, I have to avenge the Lightning Beast and kill the Ancestral Fiend from the Mental Demon lineage.


    "Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends have unfathomable means. To hunt down a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend in a fiendish dominion before my Essence Soul breaks through? The fiends hate me to the bone. Heading there would be nothing different from seeking death.


    "And if I fail to kill the Ancestral Fiend, I am affected by karma.


    "Thankfully, I have great merit on me with the light from providence shining brightly on me! The karma interference is relatively weaker¡­ but its continuous interference does hinder my cultivation." Qin Yun understood this point. "However, in the past two hundred years, as I cultivated in the Rosa Multiflora Sword Chart, I have attempted to probe the past of the billions of lifeforms. I''m improving with each attempt. All I need to do is improve a little more before I can gain success."


    Qin Yun could sense that he was just short by a little.


    However, he also knew that at his stage, every tiny progression was very difficult.


    ¡­


    After finishing dinner with his family, Qin Yun and his wife strolled along the mirror lake''s banks. Over the past two centuries, although he was almost always in seclusion, he would occasionally come out to relax himself. There were even mighty figures who would occasionally seek Qin Yun''s help to kill a particular fiend in another Small World! After all, Qin Yun was absolutely invincible in Small Worlds! Now, all the infamous fiends in the Three Realms'' countless Small Worlds began keeping a low profile and hid.


    "Oh?" While strolling with his wife, Qin Yun suddenly saw a black-haired elder standing by the lake in front of him.


    "Master." Qin Yun was taken aback as he immediately bowed.


    "Dao Ancestor." Yi Xiao immediately bowed before taking her leave.


    The black-haired elder was looking at the lake instead of Qin Yun.


    "It''s been two hundred years. How much longer are you going to remain stuck here?" The black-haired elder looked at Qin Yun.

 574 Breakthrough, Seven Stars Art!

    Chapter 574: Breakthrough, Seven Stars Art!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun could sense his master''s concern for him, but he had been doing his best at gaining insights into Dao of the Heavenly Cycles.


    "Master, please forgive me for acting willfully." Qin Yun was extremely respectful.


    "You are just too stubborn," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure coldly. "For your homeworld, you destroyed your future and became an Itinerant Immortal! You have destroyed your path to becoming a Skyimmortal and Golden Immortal. In the end, you did manage to save your homeworld. You''ve sacrificed enough, do you actually¡­ want to destroy your chances of transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations as well? How much time do you have left for cultivation? Two hundred years have been wasted just like this! Perhaps, your final transcendence of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations could be short of that one to two hundred years! No amount of treasures can be exchanged for that time."


    Qin Yun fell silent.


    "Although your Sword Dao has some similarities with the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles in its early stages, the fundamentals are highly disparate," added the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "Even if you were to drown yourself in cultivation, you will still not be able to succeed in two millennia if two centuries has failed you."


    "My Dao of the Heavenly Cycles has reached the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm. It feels like all I need is a little boost to succeed," said Qin Yun.


    "Just a little boost from the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm? How long would that take?" asked the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "Do you dare tell me? How many people in all of the Three Realms are stuck at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm''s bottleneck?"


    Qin Yun quietly listened to his master''s tirade.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure added, "Mortal child, all you need to do is set up a powerful array to make the Great Chang world impregnable. The fiends will not be able to break through the Great Chang world''s array formation even if they wish to. After all, Star Destruction is dead! To protect the Great Chang world, all it would take is two to three Connate Numinous treasures. You previously destroyed your future to save your homeworld. Wouldn''t it be enough to waste another two or three Connate Numinous treasures to make your homeworld impregnable? How much more do you want to sacrifice for this Small World?


    "What I''m most afraid is that, even after you waste ten thousand years, it would all end up being for naught!" said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "Five hundred years!"


    Qin Yun finally spoke out as he looked at his master. "Please let me act willfully once more. If I fail after spending five hundred years, I''ll allow my Essence Soul to break through after setting up an array for my homeworld."


    However, he thought to himself, "I have already reached the pinnacle Skyimmortal bottleneck of the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles. If I fail to break through in the next three centuries, I might never be able to make the breakthrough even with three millennia or even ten thousand years."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded. "Good luck then."


    With that said, he dissipated away.


    Qin Yun stood there and watched in silence.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao walked over and held Qin Yun''s hand.


    Qin Yun smiled as he held his wife''s hand.


    ******


    Regardless of what the world thought of him, Qin Yun continued focusing on the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles.


    In his chamber.


    After imbibing a drop of Samsara Dew, he felt slightly inebriated. However, in this state, Qin Yun had a feeling. He looked at the eighteen flying stars around him. Each star''s trajectory was abstruse and magical. They constantly crossed each other''s path like the motion of celestial bodies. Ideas kept coming to his mind.


    "Thirteen stars are too complicated.


    "Eight?


    "Too many.


    "Seven stars are probably sufficient."


    As Qin Yun pondered, he muttered to himself, constantly inferring with his fingers.


    Suddenly, Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. A bright light bloomed at his fingertips as it flew around him. Seven beams of light transformed into seven stars! There were lines connecting the seven stars and as they slowly flew, the lines that connected them taking on a mystical essence.


    Qin Yun felt more and more delighted as he watched the evolutions of the seven stellar lines.


    "Hahaha. Hahaha¡­" Qin Yun roared with excited laughter.


    "Time to leave."


    He waved his hand and stored away the Eighteen Flying Stars before leaving his chamber quickly.


    It was already winter outside and the area was clad in fresh snow. Yi Xiao was sitting inside a pavilion, leisurely drawing a talisman.


    "Sou!"


    A figure suddenly appeared beside Yi Xiao.


    Yi Xiao turned her head in shock and saw Qin Yun happily grab her shoulders, saying hurriedly, "I succeeded, I''ve finally succeeded."


    "You succeeded?" Yi Xiao beamed with delight as well.


    "Yes, I used the Great Dao contained within the Eighteen Flying Stars as a foundation. I removed the unnecessary portions and only studied the parts that are meant for inference," said Qin Yun in excitement. "I constantly simplified it to seek the core traits of inference in the Eighteen Flying Stars. Finally, I came up with a Seven Stars Art. Although it''s not a Great Dao, in terms of inference, it has the might of a Great Dao.


    "Up until now, I was trapped at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm. This breakthrough has been a great uplift for me. With such a huge improvement, it would definitely be simple to delve into the entire Great Chang world''s past." Qin Yun was filled with confidence.


    Qin Yun wasn''t unrealistically optimistic.


    With the Eighteen Flying Stars in hand, he had been studying the mysteries contained within the Connate Numinous treasure. Naturally, the difficulty had been drastically reduced. Furthermore, he had only sought to figure out the inference mysteries within. Now, he had succeeded in coming up with the Seven Stars Art.


    "Have you found Empyrean Lord Kuifu''s avatar?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I''ll do it now," said Qin Yun with a smile as he immediately took his wife''s hand.


    Swoosh.


    The both of them underwent Void Transference and came high into the sky. They looked down upon the cities, mountains, villages, lakes, and rivers¡­ They seemed to be wearing a glistening silver attire of snow.


    "The river of time." Qin Yun''s will covered the entirety of the Great Chang world as he tore through the barriers of time and immersed himself into the river of time.


    Every person would leave their mark from the moment they were born into this world.


    Qin Yun could clearly see these marks.


    And Qin Yun was not just probing one person, but all the living beings in the Great Chang world at the same time. That even included beasts! Every instant, countless beings would die as well as be born. Therefore, Qin Yun''s probes were constantly changing. It took a huge toll on his Dharmic powers and Essence Soul.


    However, Qin Yun moved his left fingers and began inferring with the Seven Stars Art.


    The art of inference could garner details or superficial aspects, allowing him to figure out the crux of an issue.


    Instantly, Qin Yun felt a lot more relaxed.


    "Whoosh~"


    Amid the river of time, Qin Yun constantly swam upstream in search of the past.


    The past had already happened, so the marks left behind were clear.


    He probed as he went against the flow¡­ A hundred years, two hundred years¡­ He forged ahead against time for he knew that Kuifu''s avatar had come to the Great Chang world to learn the secret before he abducted his wife.


    Countless beings were probed by Qin Yun. He saw them age backwards. An elder slowly turned middle-aged, a teenager, a child, a toddler, a crying baby, before returning to their mother''s womb. His mother in her youth, her mother as a teenager, and when she was a child¡­


    Time flowed backward.


    He returned to more than two centuries ago where Qin Yun transcended the tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal before killing Star Destruction.


    Further back, Qin Yun saved his wife and found his daughter in the Skywolf world.


    Further back, Qin Yun formed the foundations of his Sword Dao after dreaming a hundred years.


    Further back, Qin Yun married Yi Xiao in the immortal cave abode.


    Further back, at mid-autumn, the couple kissed under the bright moon over the river.


    Further back, Qin Yun risked his life to slay the county governor.


    Further back, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao joined forces to kill Water God.


    Further back, Qin Yun traveled the world alone at the age of fifteen.


    Further back, Qin Yun practiced his sword daily, becoming the strongest youth in Grand Dominance County.


    Further back, his younger sister was taken away by demons in the village. His father was heavily injured while Qin Yun wept¡­


    Further back, Qin Yun, Qin An, and Qin Hongxiang were together. The two elder brothers were running in the village while their sister chased after them with her tiny feet. "Eldest Brother, Second Brother, wait for me." Their father led the villagers in a patrol as he watched over with a chuckle.


    ¡­


    As he watched time flow backward, Qin Yun did not realize that his eyes had moistened.


    "Sis." Qin Yun muttered.


    Time continued rewinding.


    Soon, Qin Yun came to a point before he and his siblings were born.


    As he continued forward, Qin Liehu and Changlan turned young. Qin Liehu was also trained by his father in his youth.


    ¡­


    He constantly forged forward.


    "Found it."


    With the Seven Stars Art''s aid, Qin Yun instantly locked onto a figure. Although the figure was well-hidden, Qin Yun''s strength allowed him to instantly determine that it was Empyrean Lord Kuifu.


    "Skyfiend Kuifu''s avatar." Qin Yun recognized him at a glance.


    "Hahaha¡­ The Heavens are helping me. The Heavens are helping me." The figure laughed out loud underground.


    Qin Yun went further ahead to probe.


    The avatar flew backwards as he moved out from underground, tearing through the obstruction of lava as he continued flying backwards.


    "This is Stellar Stone. This¡­" Kuifu was reeling in excitement underground. He circled an area to do a probe. "It''s a thousand feet long? A thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone. How is this possible? Heavens! Hahaha, I''m about to soar! I, Kuifu, will be soaring to prominence! I have to keep this a secret. Definitely. I cannot tell anyone. I have to think of a method to secretly occupy this Great Chang world. I will bide my time and succeed the moment I strike!"


    Kuifu''s avatar spoke in excitement.


    "Thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone?" When Qin Yun discovered what Kuifu''s avatar was saying amid the river of time, he could not help but be alarmed.


    However, as a Connate Wonder, a Stellar Stone naturally had confounding properties. Even in the river of time, Qin Yun had no means to discover its traces.


    However, Kuifu was circling an area muttering to himself. It probably meant that the Stellar Stone was there!


    Qin Yun continued his inference backward in time.


    He only did so until Kuifu''s avatar descended into the Great Chang world.


    "From the looks of it, the reason is this Stellar Stone." Qin Yun stopped his probe.


    "Brother Yun, have you figured it out?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I need to go someplace to verify my theory." Qin Yun held her hand. "Let''s go."


    Swoosh.


    As he now knew the location, Qin Yun directly tore through the void with his wife.


    In the deep depths of a volcano, Qin Yu and Yi Xiao appeared. Their bodies were ethereal and the magma posed no obstruction to them.


    Something that looked like a gray mountain appeared in front of them. It was lined with runic patterns that suffused stellar light. It made the mountain appear dreamy like a divine mountain.


    "What a huge Stellar Stone." Although Qin Yun had already known about it, he was still stunned when he saw it with his own eyes.

 575 Three Swords of Heaven, Earth, and Man Final Chapter of Volume

    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao made their bodies incorporeal as they circled around the gray mountain a few times to probe it carefully.


    "Brother Yun, no matter how I look at it, it looks like a Stellar Stone ," observed Yi Xiao. "But Stellar Stones have never been this big."


    "Normally, Stellar Stones would indeed range from thirty to fifty feet long." Qin Yun nodded. "But there have been accounts in the Three Realms'' history of ones that can be the size of a mountain. I just never expected to discover it myself. Furthermore, it''s in my homeworld."


    "According to the records of Connate Wonders, a fifty-foot-long Stellar Stone would be equivalent to an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. How much is it worth if it''s a thousand feet?" Yi Xiao found it unbelievable.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. "In terms of value, it probably approaches that of a Connate Cardinal treasure. Of course, it is still slightly inferior to that."


    Connate Cardinal treasure were truly priceless treasures.


    Ancient existences at the perfected Great Dao level could easily become the lord of a Great World. Over long periods of time, the number of treasures that came into their possession was sizable as well, but even most of them did not have Connate Cardinal treasures!


    All the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure did was lend the Qingping Sword to Qin Yun.


    For instance, Daoist Burning Lamp had obtained the the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads and later, he became a Buddhist, and through it, conjured the twenty-four heavens to attain a perfected Great Dao.


    Connate Cardinal treasures represented a perfected Great Dao. They represented potent power!


    Over such a prize, master and disciples, brothers, and good friends could fall out!


    Only the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s status gave him the courage to lend a Connate Cardinal treasure to his disciple.


    "Although I cannot use a thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone to exchange for a Connate Cardinal treasure, it should not be difficult to exchange for several Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasures." Qin Yun looked at the Stellar Stone in front of him and sighed. "No wonder. It''s no wonder Patriarch Bojia went mad for it¡­ As one of the patriarchs of the nine clans of the fiends, all his treasures combined might not even compare to this thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone despite his potential sizable wealth."


    "A man''s wealth is his own ruin by causing other''s greed," said Yi Xiao. "In the Great Chang world hides a Stellar Stone. Patriarch Bojia must be eyeing this. Even if Patriarch Bojia does not take action, the other Ancestral Fiends will not sit idle once they learn of this secret."


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    "However, it''s good news for you, Brother Yun." Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up. "In the next ten thousand years, you will need to continuously consume Samsara Dew for cultivation. The amount you need is so much that even a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure or two is not enough. But now, you have this Stellar Stone mountain."


    "It''s indeed a great opportunity for me. It will also be my biggest asset." Qin Yun nodded. Although the Qingping Sword was more precious, it was only a temporary loan from his master. "Xiaoxiao, wait here while I slowly extract this Stellar Stone."


    "There''s definitely no way of extracting it entirely. The Stellar Stone is the foundation of an entire world. Its connected to the entire world. If it''s extracted fully, the entire world would be destroyed as a result," warned Yi Xiao.


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun smiled. "I will never allow anything untoward to happen to the Great Chang world."


    Yi Xiao stood by the side watching. It was easy for her to remain unscathed by the magma by maintaining a Dharma spell. Many mortal cultivators were able to cast the Wall Passing Spell after all.


    "Brother Yun, how are you to extract such a robust Stellar Stone?" asked Yi Xiao.


    For the fiends, as long as they converted it into a fiendish world, the world would pose no obstruction. They would easily be able to extract it. The fiends did not care if a Small World were to end up destroyed.


    However, Qin Yun could not do the same.


    "Split."


    Qin Yun extended his hand as a blurry flying sword floated in the middle of his palm. It was none other than his Intrinsic Flying Sword, the Misty Rain Sword.


    The blurry sword began splitting into three layers! They stacked vertically¡­ One flying sword had split into three!


    "Brother Yun, your Intrinsic Flying Sword¡­" Yi Xiao was alarmed.


    "After the Misty Rain Sword was nurtured to become a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure, it gained the ability to split into three. They are the three swords of Heaven, Earth, and Man," explained Qin Yun.


    The three flying swords¡ª


    One sword was ethereal and vast. It was the Heaven Sword.


    One sword was heavy and similarly boundless. It was the Earth Sword.


    One sword was brimming with vitality. It was the Man Sword.


    Elder Sword, who was only at the Connate Golden Core realm, had managed to nurture his Intrinsic Flying Sword to split it into seven. And Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword''s Sword Dao was at a higher level. Once it became a Great Dao, it was a pinnacle Great Dao! However, his flying sword could split into three only after it was nurtured into a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure.


    "Go." With a thought from Qin Yun, the three flying swords flew in different directions and circled around the Stellar Stone.


    "Misty Rain Sword Array. Arise!" Qin Yun controlled his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    As an Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure which was also augmented by great merit, it was at its strongest the moment it split into three to form the Misty Rain Sword Array!


    Inside the sword array.


    The powers of Heaven, Earth, and Man interlocked, faintly forming a destructive might that could reduce everything back to Chaos.


    Wisps of Sword Qi tore and ground.


    Even though the Connate Wonder was extremely robust, it was still rapidly sliced up like it was an apple. The Stellar Stone was carved into pieces rapidly!


    The Stellar Stone was unable to resist the Misty Rain Sword Array.


    It was constantly shrinking in size while Qin Yun used his sense to detect the connection it had with the Great Chang world. Moments later, the Stellar Stone mountain had been sliced to the size of a sphere about ten feet across. This sphere alone was still connected to the Great Chang world.


    "Retrieve." Qin Yun flipped his hand and stored the sliced Stellar Stone. Then, he stared at the remaining Stellar Stone sphere.


    "A fifty-foot-long Stellar Stone can match an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure at the most. And if it''s just ten feet? It''s nothing worth mentioning for mighty figures." Qin Yun immediately threw out eighteen array flags and set up an array formation. They completely protected the Stellar Stone and made Qin Yun satisfied with its current state.


    Yi Xiao flew to Qin Yun''s side and looked suspicious. "This array formation¡­"


    Qin Yun smiled. "It''s to prevent any idiot from taking the final bit of Stellar Stone away and destroying the Great Chang world. It''s best to protect it with an array formation and later, use this array formation to fuse with the other array formations of the Great Chang world! Even if Star Destruction is revived, he can forget about breaking through it. Xiaoxiao, go back and make some preparations. Once I finish setting up the Great Chang world''s array formations, we will be moving."


    "Brother Yun, you are finally going to have an Essence Soul breakthrough? I''ve been waiting for more than two centuries." Yi Xiao was overjoyed.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun originally had the plans to fortify the Great Chang world before he had a breakthrough with his Essence Soul.


    After all, once he left, he could no longer enter his homeworld again with his true body.


    And now that he had obtained copious amounts of Stellar Stone from his homeworld, Qin Yun was naturally more meticulous in setting up the array formations.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Following that, three ten-thousand-feet tall array mountains descended into the East Sea, stirring up huge waves in the sea.


    Qin Yun was setting up the array formation in midair.


    "Qin Yun." A figure tore across the void. It was none other than Ancestral Master Zhang. He looked at the scene in astonishment. "How many treasures did you prepare for this array formation?"


    "I did destroy twenty-six garrisons of the fiends previously," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Every garrison was made impregnable by the fiends! I am the only one who could tear open spatial passageways to arrive within the array formations, making them useless. That allowed my easy destruction of their hives¡­ If not, how could the twenty-six garrisons be so easily destroyed?


    "Those garrisons were all dismantled by me. I kept almost all of the numerous array formations that guarded them," said Qin Yun. "I chose twelve array formations out of those from the twenty-six garrisons which could work in tandem perfectly and prepared to set them up."


    "Qin Yun."


    Ancestral Master Zhang could not help but say, "I previously sensed that you set up three array formations. Each one of them was impressive. You are now setting up another twelve? All of these added up can match three or four Connate Numinous treasures. You became an Itinerant Immortal because of the Great Chang world. Your Essence Soul hasn''t broken through for more than two centuries. You have already sacrificed enough. You need treasures to cultivate now. There''s no need to do this."


    "I have also obtained a lot from the Great Chang world," said Qin Yun. "Patriarch Bojia and company were constantly attempting to conquer our Great Chang world because of a treasure it possesses. I have already found the treasure. It''s worth far more than what I''m sacrificing!"


    "What you have sacrificed is not only limited to treasures. There is also your Skyimmortal and Golden Immortal path, and time that cannot be regained," said Ancestral Master Zhang with a sigh. "Whatever. It''s pointless talking about it. For you to begin setting up the array formations, does it mean you finally plan to have your Essence Soul break through?"


    "I''ll break through once I''m done setting up." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Are you not going to return once you leave?" Ancestral Master Zhang felt a little conflicted.


    He had watched Qin Yun''s rise to prominence.


    He had even owed Qin Yun greatly. The opportunity to enter Lightning Beast Manor was all thanks to Qin Yun. He had yet to return the favor.


    "In the future, the Great Chang world will depend on you, Brother Zhang," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Rest assured." Ancestral Master Zhang nodded. "Cultivate with peace of mind."


    Ten thousand plus years later¡­


    Would Qin Yun really create another miracle? Or would he be reduced to dust under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations?


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was now extremely powerful. In just a day, he had set up the twelve array formations. Their potency was much stronger than any of the twenty-six fiendish hives. They were even able to conjure the universe''s stellar forces and convert them into the Heaven Earth Essence Qi for the Great Chang world. A Small World''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi would slowly thin with time, but the Great Chang world was able to convert stellar forces, allowing it to remain perpetually powerful.


    "Boom." The twelve array formations fused into one as surging stellar forces descended from the cosmos. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies also began turning richer.


    Qin Yun stood in midair watching all of this.


    Yi Xiao also appeared by his side and smiled at him. "Brother Yun, are you ready?"


    "I just have to do one final thing," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "Make the fiends give up." Qin Yun smiled.


    ¡­


    In a dark hall in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s Bojia Palace.


    Patriarch Bojia sat cross-legged in cultivation.


    "Patriarch Bojia." A voice reached him through shared karma.


    "Oh?" Bojia''s eyes on his four faces opened simultaneously. "Qin Yun?"


    He too could sense Qin Yun in the distant Great Chang world through their karmic ties.


    "The Great Chang world''s secret is the Stellar Stone, right?"


    The voice continued resounding in Bojia''s ears.


    Bojia''s expression changed instantly as he pressed hurriedly through the karmic voice transmission. "Did you excavate the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone?"


    "What do you think?" The voice had a hint of mockery.


    (End of Volume)

 576 Essence Soul Breakthrough

    Chapter 576: Essence Soul Breakthrough


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After passing on the message to make Patriarch Bojia abandon his hopes of obtaining the Stellar Stone, Qin Yun ignored Bojia.


    As for Bojia, he was infuriated.


    "Qin Yun!"


    Bojia''s Dharmic powers exploded in every direction and struck the palace walls. It caused the sealed hall to rumble loudly, down to its internal structure.


    "My Stellar Stone, it''s mine!" Bojia was incensed and sad over his loss. What was a massive treasure that seemed always within reach, right in front of him, was now gone! For this, he had lost Fiend Supremacy Black Wing and his Connate Numinous treasure, the Great Yin Disk. However, those losses did not make him lose heart. He always believed that Qin Yun would soon leave the Small World. As long as the secret of the Stellar Stone did not leak, he still had a high chance of obtaining it.


    But now, it was all for naught!


    "How did he discover it?


    "The area beneath the Great Chang world is so massive. Even if he burrowed underground, it should have been nearly impossible to find a thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone with only his eyes!" Bojia fumed. "Besides, without having some kind of clue about the Stellar Stone, he would not have wasted his valuable time scouring the area bit by bit.


    "But he still discovered it.


    "Is this because of the light that shines on him from providence?"


    Bojia muttered to himself. "The light from providence shines on him and he has great merit. It allows him to turn calamities into blessings, making it easier for him to find treasures."


    Although Qin Yun had injected the massive amounts of merit into his Intrinsic Flying Sword, just an ordinary Merit Numinous treasure would enhance the amount of light that shone on him from providence, let alone his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Any faction that had a Merit Numinous treasure was able to ensure the light from providence would continue to come down. Clearly, Qin Yun enjoyed both the light and merit!


    With the light from providence, one could pick up treasures simply while walking along the road. It was completely possible that he just got lucky and found the Stellar Stone by chance.


    "What''s the point of keeping Kuifu then?" Bojia looked into the distance and penetrated the spatial obstructions. He saw Kuifu under house arrest in a corner of the Bojia Palace. No one was permitted to interact with him.


    The fuming Bojia even wished to squash Kuifu to death in that moment.


    "No."


    Bojia narrowed his eyes. "He has a grudge with Qin Yun. Qin Yun would also wish him dead! Keeping him alive might still be beneficial."


    ******


    Great Chang world, Grand Dominance City''s Qin Manor. Inside a pavilion.


    "Xiaoxiao, look at this." Qin Yun unfurled a scroll. It was very long and it had scenes of the various zones in the Heavenly realm. "This is a record of the various scenic places in the Heavenly realm."


    Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up. The scroll was a Dharma treasure and the visual depicted on it felt like a world itself. Looking at the scroll made her feel like she was looking at the Heavenly realm.


    "Help choose one carefully. We will be moving to the Heavenly realm and staying there," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "We should be careful in our selection of the place we move to." Yi Xiao looked carefully.


    "You can take your time making a selection. There''s no hurry," said Qin Yun.


    "When are you letting your Essence Soul break through?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I''ll be heading to the Green Touring Palace first and will break through there," said Qin Yun. "I''ll stay in the Green Touring Palace for some time."


    "Make the breakthrough as soon as possible," urged Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. He immediately left his avatar behind and headed for Green Touring Palace.


    This departure also marked the moment that his true body would never be able to step foot into the Great Chang world again.


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace, inside Qin Yun''s cave abode.


    After attaining a pinnacle Great Dao, Qin Yun also obtained a cave abode in Green Touring Palace. Green Touring Palace disciples who had yet to attain a Great Dao could only reside in small yards. As for those that attained a Great Dao, they would be provided with cave abodes.


    "It''s time to break through." Qin Yun sat cross-legged by the side of a tiny lake in his cave abode. There were lotus flowers floating in the lake and a few fishes swimming in it.


    With a thought, his Essence Soul began its breakthrough. Qin Yun''s body emitted blinding light.


    His Essence Soul Dharmic powers and Sword Dao fused, rapidly transforming his Essence Soul. It went from the pinnacle Skyimmortal level to the pinnacle Golden Immortal level! As he was unrestricted by a body, the strength of his Essence Soul was completely determined by the Dao he had attained.


    Every wisp of his Essence Soul Dharmic powers was like a flying sword, pure, sharp and indomitable.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Large amounts of Heaven Earth Essence Qi surged into the cave abode and into his body.


    With his Essence Soul breaking through, his Dharmic powers also gained some heft. It naturally absorbed Heaven Earth Essence Qi fervently. Green Touring Palace was able to easily redirect large amounts of Heaven Earth Essence Qi over. It did not cause much of a stir. This was also the reason why Qin Yun had chosen the Green Touring Palace as the location for his breakthrough. He could keep a low profile by secretly making a breakthrough since he had another important task to take care of.


    In just five minutes, Qin Yun felt that his pinnacle Golden Immortal-leveled Essence Soul was ''satiated.''


    "A pinnacle Golden Immortal-leveled Essence Soul is so much stronger than anything I had previously." Qin Yun felt somewhat wistful.


    Before he transcended the tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal, he was at the Essence Soul realm.


    The Essence Soul¡­ was considered the beginnings of cultivation in the Three Realms. As for the Connate realm, it was only considered as a mortal regime.


    Above the Essence Soul realm were the nine firmaments of the Skyimmortal realm.


    Further up was that of mighty figures!


    Golden Immortals! Buddhas! Sagedemons! Ancestral Dragons! These were all mighty figures.


    Qin Yun''s present Essence Soul was at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level. As a result, his thought processes were a lot faster than when he was in the Essence Soul realm. His enlightenment also became hundreds of times faster. This was also why the Dao Ancestor, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, urged Qin Yun to break through his Essence Soul as soon as possible. Only after the breakthrough would Qin Yun have a chance at attaining a perfected Great Dao!


    "Boom." Qin Yun stretched out his hand as a blurry flying sword appeared. Following that, the gray sword split into three and floated at the same level in front of him.


    "When powered with pinnacle Golden Immortal Dharmic powers, its might has increased several times as well." Qin Yun nodded slightly. With a flip of his hand, he put away his Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    Following that, he pulled the Qingping Sword from his back.


    He held the scabbard with one hand and pulled the sword out with another.


    Schwing. The Qingping Sword was slightly unsheathed as Dharmic powers poured into it. A terrifying might was brewing within that lifted Qin Yun''s brows.


    "As expected of a Connate Cardinal treasure." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "My Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure is augmented with merit. As my Intrinsic Flying Sword, I can produce sufficient might with it, but it is inferior when it comes to the mystical aspect.


    Using his Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure produced similar might as a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    However, the mystical element contained within was different.


    A Connate Cardinal treasure contained a perfected Great Dao within!


    "Now that my Essence Soul has broken through, giving me a great increase in Dharmic powers, both my Intrinsic Flying Sword and the Qingping Sword will be able to produce even more potent might." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "This way, I''ll have the confidence to head into the fiendish dominion."


    "I owe karma because of my gains in the Lightning Beast Manor.


    "I agreed to kill Ancestral Fiend Moxiu once I attained the strength of a pinnacle Golden Immortal.


    "In the past two centuries, I have been studying the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles¡­ I kept feeling the influence of that karma. Its effects were relatively low only because of the great merit I have. However, if I don''t kill Moxiu, I will be affected constantly for the next ten thousand years." Qin Yun frowned slightly. "I have to sever this karma.


    "Ancestral Fiend Moxiu is very weak. He''s only an ordinary Ancestral Fiend. If I were to fight him head on, I''d be able to easily crush him to death.


    "However, he is an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage¡­ He will not fight me head on."


    Qin Yun was acutely aware of this point.


    Back in the ninth level of the Myriad Dharma Repository, he had read through many secrets of the Three Realms. There, he gained a deeper understanding of the Ancestral Fiends from the Mental Demon lineage.


    The Mental Demon lineage was the most unfathomable lineage among the fiends. This lineage had a total of three Ancestral Fiends. One of them was Patriarch Mental Demon! He was at the pinnacle Ancestral Fiend level, and as the existence that created the Mental Demon lineage, the difficulty of fighting him was that of fighting a perfected Great Dao expert even though his strength in actual combat was weak. The other two Ancestral Fiends were only at the ordinary Ancestral Fiend level.


    Moxiu, who Qin Yun needed to kill, was one of the two.


    "Time to leave." Qin Yun did not take the Qingping Sword. Instead, he put it away temporarily. Following that, he left the Green Touring Palace and headed for the Effulgent Great World.


    ******


    Effulgent Great World.


    Qin Yun stood on the peak of a beautiful mountain peak.


    "Ancestral Fiend Moxiu."


    "Ancestral Fiends of the Mental Demon lineage are the best at concealment. Even the other Ancestral Fiends do not know where his true body is," thought Qin Yun. "They are good at hiding from the heavens¡­ However, I have gained insight into a pinnacle Great Dao and the Seven Stars Art. I can similarly infer the secrets of the heavens."


    As Qin Yun probed through karma itself, he inferred with his fingers.


    Through a karmic line, he discovered that Moxiu was hiding south of the Wind Encasement Great World in the fiendish dominion. But how big was a Great World? Just a vague determination of a zone was useless.


    Since Moxiu''s cave abode palace was in the Wind Encasement Great World, it was only normal that his true body was in that Great World.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun continued inferring with his fingers.


    To infer the secrets of the heavens using various elements might appear complex and confusing, but an expert could easily see the futures of various weaklings in the river of time. And for Qin Yun, who was good at inference, coupled with the numerous elements, he was able to tear through the layers of confusion and see the truth.


    One side was hiding from the heavens, while the other side was tearing through the mists of confusion! This was also a form of combat.


    Of course, the one hiding was having an easier time! Tearing through the mists of confusion was a lot more difficult.


    Qin Yun''s Seven Stars Art was specially meant for inference. It had reached the mighty figure level, and he was an existence with a pinnacle Great Dao. However, despite all of that and his powerful Essence Soul, he was still unable to fully spy on Moxiu''s true body.


    "I can only gauge that Moxiu''s true body is hidden in the south of the Wind Encasement Great World, in a region that spans fifteen thousand kilometers." Qin Yun frowned slightly. "As expected of a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend. It exists in both reality and fantasy. Its means of hiding from the heavens are indeed formidable. But you won''t be able to escape."


    Qin Yun had an idea after some thought.


    He immediately took a step and tore through space-time, crossing over distances that separated dominions while heading for the Wind Encasement Great World.


    The Three Realms had been naturally split into sixty dominions due to space-time. Among them, ten dominions were completely occupied by the fiends! The fiends naturally stationed immense forces to defend these dominions.


    Qin Yun went from one Great World to another on his journey. He did not dare enter the cosmos, afraid that the Fiend Ancestor would take action. The Fiend Ancestor''s powers made him unable to enter a Great World or Small World. However, in starry space¡­ the Fiend Ancestor could sneak up on him at any time. Two hundred plus years ago, the Fiend Ancestor had attempted to sneak up on that monkey while Qin Yun was sweeping through the twenty-six dominions.


    Since he had crossed the Fiend Ancestor, the Fiend Ancestor would probably attack him the moment he was given a chance.


    Therefore¡­


    Unless he was given word by his master, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, Qin Yun would not dare step into space recklessly.


    ¡­


    In the Wind Encasement dominion''s Wind Encasement Great World.


    A gray-robed youth with silver hair appeared.


    "I''ve change my looks and hidden myself from the heavens. Even if I were to stand in front of Moxiu, he would not be able to recognize me." Qin Yun stood high in the sky and looked around him.

 577 Moncanton

    Chapter 577: Moncanton


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "It was difficult to infer the secrets of heaven across distant space. Now that I''m in the Wind Encasement Great World, I''ll attempt an inference again." Qin Yun cast the Seven Stars Art as he carefully inferred the secrets of heaven.


    Distance was a factor in the difficulty of inference.


    For instance, there were Skyimmortals and Skydemons who were adept at inference! But typically, they could only do so in the world they existed in, not worlds that were a distance away.


    And for someone like Qin Yun who could infer across dominions, he was still unable to get clear signals from the secrets of heaven due to the distance. Inference was much easier when closer.


    Moments later.


    "Ancestral Fiend Moxiu''s true body is hidden within eighty thousand kilometers." Qin Yun frowned. "I''ve narrowed down the range, but there are still billions of lifeforms inside this eighty thousand kilometers. There are nearly ten thousand Skyfiends!"


    He looked around him.


    His gaze easily gleaned the regions around him for thousands of kilometers. There were cities filled with human fiendish cultivators, Water race and fiendish demons, etc. The factions they formed were rather haphazard. There were countless at the ordinary Fiendcelestial realm, with Skyfiends numbering almost ten thousand. As for Moxiu, his true body was hidden among them under a guise. There was no way to find him.


    "Ancestral Fiend Moxiu exists in an illusionary reality. To find his true body, I need to try my best at narrowing the range as much as I can," pondered Qin Yun. "I''m good at inference, and my realm is higher than Moxiu''s. The best method¡­ is to deepen the karmic ties between us! If the karmic ties are enhanced, his concealment would also turn increasingly difficult."


    For instance, by being tied by blood, even ordinary cultivators who were unable to see karmic lines could sense the kinship between their family. This was because the karmic ties from blood kinship was much greater.


    For instance, for irreconcilable grudges, ones that could even span across multiple incarnations, the karma was so immense that even a mortal''s body could vaguely sense it from afar.


    Qin Yun and Moxiu''s karmic ties were still too thin!


    "Moxiu''s cave abode palace." Qin Yun shot a glance through the void and saw an opulent palace nearly five hundred thousand kilometers away. It was Moxiu Palace. Large numbers of Skyfiends patrolled its periphery. "The security is tight as it oversees a huge region. However, the Moxiu inside Moxiu Palace is only an avatar."


    "How do I deepen my karmic ties with him?


    "Furthermore, how do I not make him turn wary?" Qin Yun pondered.


    After some thought, he made up his mind. "I''ll do that!"


    He immediately took a step and vanished.


    ******


    When Qin Yun appeared again, he was already 25,000 kilometers away. He stood in midair as he looked at a luxurious cave abode which was built on a mountain range into the distance.


    Dark winds howled across it, making the cave abode appear blurry.


    "This cave abode belongs to Ancestral Fiend Moncanton''s beloved disciple, Moncanton." Qin Yun looked over. With his skill when it came to space, he could pass through the array formation restrictions of the cave abode and look in. "The fights between Skyfiends are more cruel. Skyfiends from the Mental Demon lineage torture the hearts and minds of others, causing them to have numerous enemies. Most of Ancestral Fiend Moxiu''s disciples have died, leaving only eleven. Moncanton is his most beloved disciple."


    In a dark hall inside the cave abode.


    "Kill us!"


    "Moncanton, kill us if you want to!"


    "You are a Fiend King of an area. Don''t you find it beneath you torturing us?"


    The five restrained prisoners were shouting angrily. There was the elderly, youths, and women.


    Sitting high on a throne was a handsome and fair-skinned man. His eyes suffused a red glow as he smiled. "I, Moncanton, am well known for being benevolent. Don''t worry. As long as you listen to me obediently, all the thousands of disciples from your Wind Returning Sect who were captured alive would survive."


    "They can all survive?" The five prisoners were taken aback.


    "There were a total of twelve Wind Returning Sect Elders," said Moncanton with a narrowed smile. "You five are the only ones who survived the three rounds of torture."


    The five prisoners could not help but feel their hearts palpitate.


    It brought back memories of the terrifying torture that they had been subjected to. It was something that so tormenting that they pleaded for death.


    "The five of you have impressed me," said Moncanton with a smile. "That is why I''m giving all of you an opportunity, an opportunity to live. Furthermore, you would regain your freedom, and even the freedom of thousands of Wind Returning Sect disciples."


    "What do you want us to do?" pressed the imprisoned elder. The other four stared at Moncanton intently, their eyes filled with a sliver of anticipation.


    Their sect could continue existing? They could also regain their freedom?


    The corners of Moncanton''s lips curled up when he saw this. He thought to himself, "It''s good that they desire to live. Perhaps the Wind Returning Sect can really allow me to nurture a Moncanton fiendish servant."


    "You have to do five things. Once completed, you would regain your freedom, along with the thousands of disciples." Moncanton clapped his hand and immediately, the Skyfiends under him carried in basins of meat. There were five basins of meat, each placed in front of the five prisoners.


    "The first thing is for you to finish the basin of meat," said Moncanton with a smile.


    The five prisoners were puzzled.


    Eat meat?


    Wasn''t that too simple?


    "I''ll tell you ahead of time. The seven Elders of your Wind Returning Sect''s twelve Elders failed to survive the tortures and died," said Moncanton. "After they died, I ordered my subordinates to extract their meat and mixed them together to form these five basins of meat."


    "No, no¡­" The five had changes in expression.


    "Junior Sister! Junior Sister!" One of the young male prisoners stared at the basin of meat and nearly went crazy.


    "Dad! Mom!" A female prisoner wept as she looked at the basin of meat in front of her.


    Instantly, the five found it unacceptable.


    "All of you are fiendish cultivators. Why? Can''t you do something as trivial as this? I''m making all of you do five tasks. This is only the first." Moncanton looked at them in excitement. On the one hand, he wished to nurture a Mental Demon fiendish servant from such tasks, but even if it failed, tormenting a person''s psyche¡­ was also something a Mental Demon Skyfiend like him enjoyed.


    "I don''t have the patience. If you aren''t eating, I still have other punishments waiting for you. It will make you wish you were dead. Also, none of the thousands of disciples you have will escape," said Moncanton coldly.


    "Eat! I''ll eat!" a white-haired prisoner who was advanced in his age shouted with a deep voice.


    "Uncle-Master." The young male prisoner turned his head over.


    "I''ll eat it as well." A cold-looking female prisoner had a deranged look in her eyes.


    "Very good. Two have agreed to eat. What about the other three?" asked Moncanton.


    The others found it unacceptable.


    They were indeed fiendish cultivators.


    Skyfiends could kill countless but they were obsessed over something. With the obsession, it prevented them from losing their way while cultivating the fiendish ways!


    Clearly, three of the five prisoners could not accept it.


    "Let the two eat first," instructed Moncanton.


    Two subordinates held a basin of meat and began feeding the two.


    When Moncanton saw this, he was filled with anticipation. "This is only the first task. Once you reach the fifth task, you will know what despair is! Hahaha. I''m looking forward to it."


    Just as the white-haired elder and cold-looking female were about to eat with bloodshot eyes¡ª


    Suddenly¡ª


    Boom!


    There was an explosion from outside.


    "Moncanton, your end is here!" An angry bellow sounded from outside.


    The white-haired elder and cold woman were taken aback. A look of anticipation flashed in their eyes as they turned to look over. The other three prisoners looked over in anticipation as well.


    Moncanton sat on his throne unperturbed. He smiled. "Many people wish me dead! Yet, I sit here fine. He¡ª Oh? He cracked the array that quickly?"


    With that said, Moncanton stood up abruptly as he stared out the palace solemnly.


    He had long controlled the cave abode''s array formation to defend against the enemy.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    Accompanied by a series of explosions, a gray-robed silver-haired youth charged in. Surrounding him were three blood-colored crescents that were filled with surging banal auras.


    The youth glared at Moncanton with eyes filled with anger and killing intent. "Moncanton, I''ve cultivated arduously for so many years just to kill you! You are doomed today. Prepare to die!"


    The person that had come was naturally the disguised Qin Yun!

 578 Seeking Help

    Chapter 578: Seeking Help


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun had been watching all of this from afar.


    He finally lost his patience when he saw what was about to happen. The first task of ''eating meat'' had already infuriated him. Skyfiends from the Mental Demon lineage were known maniacs. Daoist cultivators were most afraid of developing a mental demon, but the Skyfiends of the Mental Demon lineage deliberately went down that route. Upon making contact, Qin Yun had infinite killing intent. Such fiends deserved death! He could not tolerate it!


    However, he still acted according to the plan.


    Skyfiends from the Mental Demon lineage had numerous enemies, many who wanted their heads. More than half of Ancestral Fiend Moxiu''s personal disciples had already died as a result of vendettas they created, but that was very common. This was the ''calamity'' that those from the Mental Demon lineage often encountered. Death awaited them if they failed to overcome it, but surviving the calamity meant that they could go further!


    Qin Yun had feigned being someone with a vendetta with Moncanton! One who had finally gained the strength to seek revenge after many years of cultivation.


    "Who are you?" Moncanton stood and glanced at Qin Yun who had rushed in, saying leisurely, "There are just too many who have grudges with me, many of whom I do not know."


    Although he had a casual air, the array formation beneath his feet had already begun spinning. There was an array formation in the ceiling that was spinning in the opposite direction.


    Layers of light protected Moncanton.


    This was his cave abode! How could his lair not have any life-preservation means?


    "Array formation?" The youth''s expression changed as he said coldly, "You are trying to stall for time. Die!"


    With that said, a blood-colored crescent remained by his side to protect him while the other two streaked over with terrifying might, tearing apart the void.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    The two blood-colored crescents sliced through seven layers of light before losing their momentum.


    Upon seeing this, Moncanton''s expression changed. "You concealed your strength previously? You have the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend?"


    "I was afraid you would flee," said Qin Yun coldly.


    Moncanton''s expression was ugly as he immediately crushed a blood jade. With talisman runes swirling around him as protection, he immediately transformed into a phantom in a bid to escape.


    Hum!


    The void warped, completely trapping Moncanton within.


    "I have prepared for so many years to kill you. You won''t escape." Qin Yun''s cold voice was filled with killing intent.


    "No, no¡ª" Moncanton was on the brink of insanity as he racked his brains for means to escape.


    He only had the strength of a ninth firmament Skyfiend. As a Skyfiend of the Mental Demon lineage, his life-preservation means were very unpredictable and immense despite him having ordinary offensive strength. Even if a half-step Ancestral Fiend were to attack him, it was still possible for him to escape if there was just a hint of carelessness on the attacker''s part. Therefore, Qin Yun had pretended to be a half-step Ancestral Fiend who had made arduous preparations. He wanted to make Moncanton feel utter despair.


    Moncanton''s body warped in a bid to tunnel through the void, but he failed to do so.


    Moncanton''s subordinates had long fled far away when they realized the situation was going downhill.


    "It''s actually a half-step Ancestral Fiend."


    "Master has just too many enemies. Real trouble has befallen him."


    As for the five captives from the Wind Returning Sect in the hall, they were reeling with excitement. They had an immense grudge with Moncanton! Countless members of their sect were either dead or injured by his hand. Only a few thousand disciples remained alive, and they were the only five remaining members of the sect''s upper echelons.


    "Hahaha! Moncanton, this is retribution! Even as fiends, you have to be careful of karmic retribution! You die once it befalls you!"


    "Dad, Mom. This Moncanton is finally dying. He''s dying." A female prisoner wept.


    "Moncanton, I can die in peace now that I get to watch you die."


    "Senior! We have a huge grudge with Moncanton as well. Please save us."


    "Senior¡­"


    The five spoke out one after another.


    However, Qin Yun ignored them completely. Although these five Skyfiends had been tormented by Moncanton, they had similarly committed heinous sins. They had also killed countless, only to succumb and be tortured to such a tragic state as a result of the Fiendish Dao''s strangest Mental Demon lineage. In fact, nearly all cultivators in the Fiendish Dao were the same. Few could be untainted when dabbling in such a heinous art!


    "Die!" Qin Yun acted like he was giving his all. He controlled the blood-colored crescent and conjured what appeared to be ''powerful'' treasures.


    He looked like his was giving his all, but Qin Yun was thinking to himself, "A ninth firmament Skyfiend from the Mental Demon lineage has quite impressive life-preservation means. Spending about ten seconds to kill him as a half-step Ancestral Fiend can be considered normal. As long as Ancestral Fiend Moxiu is willing to save his disciple, that ten seconds is definitely enough."


    "Moxiu, are you coming to save your disciple or will you watch him die?"


    Qin Yun was waiting.


    ¡­


    Moxiu Palace.


    This was Ancestral Fiend Moxiu''s cave abode palace. There were massive numbers of Skyfiends patrolling in its periphery. Although Moxiu''s true body was not here, he still left an avatar in there to handle all sorts of miscellaneous matters.


    His many disciples would also often leave an avatar in here even while traveling outside.


    In an opulent hall.


    Moxiu sat cross-legged inside alone. His body was ethereal as though he was an illusionary existence. He was covered in a pale golden halo. Suddenly, he sensed something and gave the order, "Take your leave, all of you."


    "Yes." The servants inside the hall immediately left.


    Moxiu stood up and suddenly a figure condensed inside the hall. It was a white-haired and white-robed elder with a benevolent countenance. Similarly, it was suffusing a pale golden halo.


    "Patriarch." Moxiu bowed reverently.


    The elder in front of him was the pioneer of the Mental Demon lineage¡ªPatriarch Mental Demon! Although he only had the strength of a peak Ancestral Fiend, as the creator of the strangest lineage in the Fiendish Dao, the threat he posed to the Daoists, Buddhists and Heavenly Courts was in no way less than an existence with a perfected Great Dao. He did not engage in frontal assaults, but acted in secret, enchanting others and controlling them.


    It had already been revealed that several mighty figures were under Patriarch Mental Demon''s control.


    "Moxiu," asked Patriarch Mental Demon. "Did you succeed in gathering information about Yang Jian?"


    "My mental demon servant is a subordinate of his, having the post of general," said Moxiu with a frown. "Yang Jian had made an appearance back when Qin Yun swept through the twenty-six dominions of us fiends, but he never left Guanjiang River."


    "The heavenly secrets behind Guanjiang River are blurry, making it difficult to spy upon. My mental demon servant will definitely be watching. Once Yang Jian does anything of note, immediately inform me," instructed Patriarch Mental Demon.


    "Yes, Patriarch," replied Moxiu.


    Patriarch Mental Demon nodded slightly before his avatar dissipated away.


    Moxiu sat cross-legged gain as he frowned. "Yang Jian is only a pinnacle Golden Immortal. Although he cultivates in the Eight-Nine Arcane Art. His existence doesn''t make a significant impact on the Heavenly Courts and Daoists. Whatever, I''ll just abide by the orders given!"


    All these years, Moxiu could sense that the fiends were gearing up for something. However, it was a vague feeling.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Master, save me. Save me!" A scream sounded from outside the hall.


    "Come in." Moxiu frowned as he controlled the cave abode array formation and allowed Moncanton''s avatar entry.


    The moment Moncanton''s avatar entered, it said frantically, "Master, a half-step Ancestral Fiend has arrived inside my cave abode and is attempting to kill me. I can''t last much longer."


    "What?" A sharp glint flashed in Moxiu''s eyes. "Which half-step Ancestral Fiend is it?"


    Among his remaining eleven disciples, Moncanton was indeed his most beloved.


    "I don''t know him. Probably one of my enemies who recently had a breakthrough. He is sparing no expense in order to kill me." Moncanton''s avatar knelt as he said hurriedly, "Master, I can''t last longer. Master, save me!"


    "You don''t know?" Moxiu frowned slightly and soon, a look of alarm flashed in his eyes. "I tried to probe the karmic ties with my true body but failed? What background does this half-step Ancestral Fiend have? No matter, I still have to think of a way to save my disciple first."


    ¡­


    "Brother Kukan, my disciple, Moncanton, is under assault by a half-step Ancestral Fiend in his cave abode at the moment. Please help save my disciple."


    "Moxiu, who is the half-step Ancestral Fiend? What background does he have?"


    "I''ve tried inferring the karmic ties, but failed to gather anything. Perhaps he has a rare treasure on him that blurs the secrets of heaven. If you kill him, you might be able to obtain that powerful treasure."


    "It''s also possible that he has a powerful background! Helping might end up giving me trouble. I won''t be able to provide any assistance."


    ¡­


    Two voices communicated over a karmic voice transmission across a huge distance.


    Half-step Ancestral Fiends were considered powerful experts among the fiends. They typically had masters! Even if they were originally itinerant cultivators, by becoming a half-step Ancestral Fiend, it would mean that they could enter a powerful faction. Ancestral Fiend Kukan was unwilling to help fight against a half-step Ancestral Fiend whose identity was a mystery.


    "Master, I can''t last any longer!" Moncanton''s avatar screamed in despair as he kowtowed frantically.


    "Despite our ties, Kukan still does not wish to attack an unknown half-step Ancestral Fiend. Perhaps, only someone with the strength of a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend would not mind interjecting. However, the price of getting the help of such an entity is too high. This disciple of mine isn''t worth that much." Moxiu had made up his mind while looking at his kowtowing disciple.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll save you," said Moxiu as he looked at his disciple.


    "Thank you, Master! Thank you." Moncanton''s avatar was overjoyed as he hurriedly said, "Master, why haven''t you taken action?"


    "I''ve requested another Ancestral Fiend to help. He will soon take action." Moxiu smiled at his disciple.


    "I can''t take it any longer. No more! Master, quick! Quick!!!" The eyes of Moncanton''s avatar turned red. "Master¡ª"


    Hua!


    Moncanton''s avatar dissipated.


    With his true body dead, his avatar naturally dissipated.


    "Disciple, don''t worry. I will avenge your death." Moxiu''s eyes were cold. "I will slowly investigate who that half-step Ancestral Fiend is. Hmph!"


    ¡­


    Moncanton was finally slain by the gray-robed youth after lasting for about ten excruciating seconds.


    A ninth firmament Skyfiend of the Mental Demon lineage had perished just like that.


    "He''s finally dead. Hahaha! I have awaited this day for so long." Qin Yun laughed loudly as he departed in the form of a beam of light.


    "Senior, save us. Save us!" The five prisoners were still shouting, but Qin Yun did not return.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun appeared on a desolate grassland.


    "Nice one, Moxiu. As expected of an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage. How cunning and careful," said Qin Yun softly. "He probably could not infer my background. Not only did he just watch his disciple die, he even avoided the risk of probing across the void? With my attainments of space-time, I would have immediately discovered him if he had spied remotely with his true body!"


    Qin Yun felt a little helpless.


    It would have been best if Moxiu had come to rescue his disciple. In a frontal assault, Moxiu was nothing.


    Qin Yun would have discovered him if he had dared spy on him.


    But¡­


    Moxiu did not do so.


    "However, I''ve killed your disciple and you wish to kill a half-step Ancestral Fiend like me now. A karmic tie¡­ has been forged between us, and is strong. The stronger the karmic tie, the harder it is for you to hide." Qin Yun used the Seven Stars Art again as he inferred with his fingers. The heavenly secrets were a blur, but with a stronger karmic tie, Qin Yun had greater hopes of tearing through the fog and seeing more.


    Moments later, Qin Yun revealed a smile.

 579 Mental Demon Avatar

    Chapter 579: Mental Demon Avatar


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I''ve narrowed it down much further." Qin Yun stopped his inference. With one step, he crossed the void and came to a spot high in the sky. He looked down from the clouds at a rather lofty city. The city spanned about five hundred kilometers in width. "His true body is within twenty-five hundred kilometers of this city. Outside the city, it''s rather desolate. There are just too few large gatherings. Those of the Mental Demon lineage all enjoy manipulating the hearts of people. This Moxiu is likely in a place where it''s populated.


    "That also means¡­ he is likely inside this city."


    Qin Yun looked at the city.


    ¡­


    In a residence inside the city.


    "Oh? Where is this?" A single-horned man who was tied up and dressed in gorgeous clothes gradually woke up.


    "Have you awoken?" A voice sounded. A plump youth was sitting on a chair as he looked down at the man who was lying on the ground.


    "It''s you. That merchant?" The single-horned man suddenly recalled something. He immediately shouted angrily when he found himself tied up, "You despicable merchant. How dare you touch me? Quickly release me, or not only will you die, but even your loved ones and the clan behind you will all die!"


    "Wouldn''t you still seek revenge on me even if I released you?" The plump youth wore an exaggerated look of fear. "If I release you, you will still kill me. If I don''t release you, I''ll still be in big trouble in the future¡­ Aiyaya, what should I do? Should I do such a clean job of killing you that no one can figure out how you died? Is that the way I can escape any trouble?"


    The single-horned man''s expression changed slightly as he held back his anger through clenched teeth. He said in a deep voice, "Don''t worry. As long as you release me, all will be forgiven."


    "Aiyah, the esteemed young son of the City Lord, do you think I''m really that foolish? That I would obediently listen to you and release you?" said the plump youth with squinted eyes.


    "Speak. What do you exactly want?" The man continued tolerating the youth''s impertinence. "You must have a motive for capturing me. Tell me your motive."


    The youth gently clapped his hand.


    Immediately, a puppet Guardian walked in while shoving a woman in front of it. Having exerted strength, the restrained woman collapsed to the group, right beside the single-horned man.


    "Second Yu. Do you know who he is?" The woman immediately glared at the plump youth. "How dare you imprison him. Are you crazy?"


    "Second Yu?"


    The youth was immediately enlightened. "You are this slut''s fianc¨¦, Second Young Master Yu? Second Yu, why do this? It''s only a woman. You are also a fiendish cultivator¡­ Why do you care about such things? In the future, I''ll find you women who are adept in the mesmerizing fiendish arts. They will be much better than this slut."


    The youth smiled at the woman. "Heard that? In the eyes of the Young City Lord, you are just a slut."


    The woman''s expression was nasty.


    "She flung herself onto me, and all I did was fool around with her," said the youth immediately. "How do you want me to compensate you? Feel free to speak."


    "Young City Lord!" The woman refused to believe that the esteemed young city lord would be so amenable to threats.


    "Shut up," the youth berated her furiously.


    The woman immediately did not dare say another word.


    The youth smiled immediately. "Second Yu, why don''t we become life-and-death brothers in the name of the Fiend Ancestor?"


    "Oh, it''s too late." The youth scoffed. "Slut, didn''t you wish to pander to this esteemed young city lord? I''ll let you accompany him the for all eternity, then you two will be satisfied."


    "Brother Yu!" The youth''s expression changed.


    "Kill them," instructed the plump youth.


    "Yes." The puppet Guardian immediately obeyed the order and went forward.


    "You are mad. You won''t be able to escape if you kill me. You are doomed. Even your clan will¡­" the youth was still speaking.


    "He''s the son of the City Lord! Second Yu, Yu Fei. I was wrong, really. How can you bear to kill me? Did you forget how¡­" The woman was reeling in fear at that moment. She never expected Second Yu to be that gutsy.


    "Phuah! Phuah!"


    The puppet Guardian swiped his saber down as a flash appeared, slicing through the City Lord''s son and the woman.


    "Clean it up nicely." The fat youth stood up and left.


    "Yes," replied the puppet Guardian respectfully.


    The youth returned to his room and began drinking. His mouth suffused a smile. "Very good. After killing that bullshit young son of the City Lord and that woman, I have indeed lessened the karma. Yu Fei''s soul shows less resistance to me. I''ll do a few more things to make Yu Fei''s father more pleased. When his soul becomes one with my true self¡­ I shall have an additional avatar."


    "Once I master this avatar, I can use it to cultivate back into my true body even if my true body were to be killed."


    "Once Yu Fei is done, I''ll have five avatars."


    The Mental Demon lineage was one that existed between reality and illusion to begin with.


    Moxiu had originally discovered that Yu Fei''s soul had an affinity with him. He was delighted, and secretly transformed into an incorporeal Mental Demon that infused into the soul of Yu Fei, a son of a merchant.


    He had first used his patience to slowly trigger the desires in Yu Fei''s heart and while he was being influenced by his desires¡­


    Moxiu as a Mental Demon began to slowly infiltrate.


    Now, Moxiu was already completely in control of Yu Fei''s soul. It was even to a point where he would be able to perfectly fuse as one in a couple more days!


    As for the City Lord or his son? To an Ancestral Fiend, they were nothing but ants!


    "However, now that my disciple, Moncanton, has been killed, I wonder who that half-step Ancestral Fiend is." The youth frowned as a ferocious glint flashed in his eyes. "I''ll slowly seek you out."


    ¡­


    The day ushered in the night.


    In the night sky, Qin Yun was looking down from the clouds.


    "I still have to shrink the region more."


    "There are more than a hundred million beings in a twenty-five hundred kilometer range of the city. Moxiu might be any one of them." Qin Yun pondered. "Once he is alerted, I won''t be able to stop an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage if I''m not prepared."


    An ordinary Ancestral Fiend could be killed easily..


    But Moxiu¡­


    He had a very special vital essence. He could oscillate between reality and illusion, making his ability to escape much stronger.


    "According to the Green Touring Palace''s intelligence, Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends have three extremely powerful life-preservation means¡ªMyriad Fiendwalk, Mental Demon Avatar, Undying Mental Demon. However¡­ an Undying Mental Demon is likely only something Patriarch Mental Demon had mastered. The other two Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends are relatively weaker and are only at the ordinary Ancestral Fiend level. It''s likely they have only mastered the two mystic arts, the Myriad Fiendwalk and the Mental Demon Avatar.


    "That''s why I can''t be careless. Just a tiny slip up would allow Moxiu to escape."


    Myriad Fiendwalk?


    Mental Demon Avatar?


    As long as he was careful, he was still confident of cracking the art and successfully killing Moxiu.


    "I''ll first probe the karma." Qin Yun looked down as his eyes glowed. The thought processes of an Essence Soul at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level was extremely fast.


    "There are 110 million humans and 600,000 demons in the city. Outside the city, there are about 30 million humans and 600,000 demons."


    "I can see each and every one of their karma."


    "Strange."


    Qin Yun frowned slightly. "None of them have blurred the secrets of heaven? From the looks of it, Moxiu has integrated himself into a lifeform, and is living in this world using that lifeform''s identity.


    "To allow him to hide so perfectly, would that mean he''s using the Mental Demon Avatar as mentioned in the Green Touring Palace''s intelligence?


    "He must have allowed his Mental Demon Avatar to continue cultivating, and it should reach the Fiendcelestial realm at the very least so that it would have a sufficiently long lifespan. If not, a mortal''s life is too short. It''s not worth it to cultivate a Mental Demon Avatar with that.


    "So a being of at least the Fiendcelestial realm?


    "There are twelve Skyfiends and 3500 Fiendcelestials within the area."


    Nothing could hide from Qin Yun''s probes.


    He did not even dare cast his domain, afraid that he would alert his prey. Instead, he spied through space. Due to his attainments in space-time, Moxiu was unable to discover Qin Yun.


    "He is among one of those twelve Skyfiends and 3500 Fiendcelestials." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the cloud. He began multitasking as he monitored the three thousand plus candidates.


    ¡­


    Time flew by.


    The next morning.


    Inside the Yu family''s residence in the city.


    "Dad! Dad!" The plump youth looked delighted.


    "What''s the hurry?" A curved-horned elder who was reading through a dossier frowned. Although they were originally human, they had begun growing fiendish characteristics after cultivating in the Fiendish Dao.


    "Dad, I broke through. I''m at the second firmament of the Fiendcelestial realm," the plump youth said in excitement.


    The elder was delighted hearing that. "You have broken through? You took three hundred years to become a Fiendcelestial, but it did not take you even ten years to break through to the second firmament? From the looks of it, my son is someone who succeeds late in life!"


    The elder was very excited.


    Although he was a businessman, this was still a world of cultivators. He always hoped that his family clan would produce a powerful expert.


    "Hahaha, you are much better than those brothers of yours. You reached the second firmament so quickly. In the future, there is a definite chance of you reaching the third firmament of the Fiendcelestial realm¡­ There might even be a possibility of you touching the Skyfiend realm." The elder was happy. "That way, our Yu family would stand out."


    "Dad, I just reached the second firmament," said the youth. "I''m still far from the Skyfiend realm."


    "Right. Let''s take it a step at a time." The elder was overjoyed.


    The standing his son had in his heart went from being an ordinary son out of all his numerous children to first place!


    After all, the third firmament Fiendcelestial realm was certain. There was a chance of him becoming a Skyfiend!


    "This Yu Fei probably has not seen his father smile much since he was young, much less made his father so excited and happy," thought the youth. "His soul''s resistance against me is weakening. Soon, I will fuse with him completely."


    ¡­


    High in the clouds.


    Qin Yun was monitoring three thousand plus candidates simultaneously.


    "Yu Fei, a second firmament Fiendcelestial. He cultivated for three centuries to become a Fiendcelestial; yet, he took fewer than ten years to reach the second firmament? The speed at which he cultivates accelerated that much?" Qin Yun instantly kept Yu Fei in mind as his suspicions of this candidate rose sharply.

 580 Finally Attacking

    Chapter 580: Finally Attacking


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun continued looking down.


    City Lord Manor.


    "Pfft!"


    A Skyfiend elder who was attempting divine inference while trembling, finally spewed a mouthful of blood. He helplessly opened his eyes.


    "How was it? Did you figure out anything?" pressed a thin middle-aged man.


    "City Lord," said the Skyfiend elder, "Your son is dead. I tried my best, but I failed to find the murderer. I couldn''t even get any details of the murderer. It''s as though the murderer doesn''t exist."


    "Even you can''t figure it out?" The man had an ugly expression.


    "Either the murderer has a mystical item that conceals them from the heavenly secrets, or they are extremely powerful, probably far stronger than you," said the elder.


    The man frowned in thought before saying coldly, "If the person is far stronger than me, they probably came to this area in passing¡­ My son must have offended the person accidentally and was killed. I naturally can''t do a thing about that. But there is no need for such an existence to hide when killing a third firmament fiendcelestial. That''s why I believe the murderer likely has a mystical item that can hide from the heavenly secrets.


    "Investigate. Look thoroughly into any one who has a vendetta against me and my son, anyone who might be able to kill my son¡­" instructed the man.


    "Yes, City Lord," replied the Skyfiend elder respectfully before he took his leave.


    The man watched as the elder took his leave, his eyes filled with a hint of anticipation. "I have fifteen sons. They are scattered across the lands so that they can be honed. Although one of them has died, it''s not a big deal. But what kind of treasure could it be that can conceal one from the heavenly secrets?"


    ¡­


    While Qin Yun was observing the massive city, the City Lord''s subordinates began to investigate in secret.


    "Interesting. The City Lord''s son is dead? Even that Skyfiend who''s good at divine inference can''t figure it out¡­" Qin Yun felt a sense of anticipation. "Perhaps it''s related to Moxiu."


    The City Lord''s subordinates mainly investigated people who were strong.


    After all, the City Lord''s son was at the third firmament Fiendcelestial realm. He also had guards and life-preservation treasures! No ordinary Skyfiend could manage to kill him without leaving a trace or without leaving some sort of corpse behind.


    Therefore, the City Lord''s subordinates investigated targets that were at the third firmament Fiendcelestial realm or above. They even investigated experts from the surrounding tribes outside the city. They even investigated the Skyfiends from the surrounding factions.


    No one suspected Yu Fei for the time being.


    A mere merchant''s son who had just broken through to the second firmament Fiendcelestial realm was completely not worth mentioning. Furthermore, only a handful of people knew that he had reached the second firmament.


    That was an ant-like existence when placed before the City Lord Manor.


    As for vendettas?


    Even the bodyguards of the City Lord''s son did not remember how many women he had slept with in the past.


    Yu Fei had always been stuck at the first firmament Fiendcelestial realm. The women engaged to him¡­ was similarly the daughter of a merchant. She was even at the Connate realm and had yet to reach the Fiendcelestial realm. Women who could reach the Fiendcelestial realm were in high demand. They could even come under the wings of Skyfiends, so they were not something Yu Fei could dream of.


    The woman''s stature was equally low, and she was simply the Young City Lord''s plaything for one night.


    Who would have imagined that his death was a result of her?


    No one would have entertained the thought that a mere son of a tiny merchant would have a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend possessing him.


    ******


    Yu family''s residence.


    The plump youth was reading inside a room.


    "Young Master, Young Master!" A servant rushed in. "Something major has happened!"


    "What is it?" the plump youth shot a glance.


    "Young Master, the slut you hated and wished dead is dead! The Chang Manor beside us are in a rage. They are investigating the murderer," chuckled the servant.


    The plump youth laughed as well. "Hahaha. There are countless brawls and deaths in this city. Numerous die every day. It has finally reached this slut. It''s good that she''s dead. Perfect."


    "Shut up."


    A sound boomed.


    The Yu family head walked in after appearing outside the room in a flash. The curved-horn elder extended his hand and, with a quake, the servant was pulverized.


    "Dad." The youth looked alarmed.


    "The daughter of the Chang family is dead, but I just heard a piece of news." The curved-horn elder looked at his son with narrowed eyes. "The City Lord''s son is dead as well!"


    "What?" The youth looked shocked.


    "The City Lord''s son and the Chang family''s daughter were likely killed yesterday." The elder took in his son''s reaction before heaving a sigh of relief. "Old Venom Chang did not know of the death of City Lord''s son in the beginning. So he ordered an investigation into his daughter''s death in anger. Having just learned that the City Lord''s son is dead as well, he''s now afraid. He''s similarly trying to conceal the news."


    "Dad¡­ our huge city is so large. Countless people die every day. That slut was a mortal, so what if she''s dead? Even if City Lord Manor learns of this news, they will likely not care about it," said the plump youth. "Furthermore, the Young City Lord had slept with numerous women. Who would care about that slut?"


    "But we care!" said the elder in a deep tone. "The Chang family''s daughter was engaged to you and she had spent a night with the City Lord''s son."


    "Yes, yes," replied the plump youth obediently.


    "We are weak. City Lord Manor will not likely cast its sight on us," said the elder in hope.


    The youth mumbled obsequiously, but he was scoffing deep down. "In this city that spans only five hundred kilometers, there are only a pathetic number of Skyfiends. This tiny place¡­ can be under my avatar''s control with but a bit of effort. However, I still need to make plans for the uprising of this avatar. In all of the fiendish dominions, such trivial cultivation geniuses are common. As for the City Lord, he will be eliminated as an opponent in my avatar''s growth. Then, he will occupy this city. For that to happen, it should be sufficient for this avatar of mine to reach the sixth firmament Skyfiend realm."


    Fiendcelestial realm? It had to face the tribulations.


    Therefore a Mental Demon avatar would typically be raised to the Skyfiend realm. The first three firmaments of the Skyfiend realm were just too weak. The sixth firmament was most suitable. It was not too conspicuous, but it was sufficient for taking and keeping control of a city.


    To Ancestral Fiend Moxiu¡­


    Everything was very simple. He needed to perfectly fuse with the body''s soul while presenting a normal cultivation trajectory on the surface.


    "Eh, what are you reading?" The elder suddenly noticed the book in the youth''s hands.


    "Dad," whispered the youth. "This is a cultivation manual I happened to chance upon."


    "What''s the highest realm you can cultivate to with it?" pressed the elder.


    "It can reach the Skyfiend realm."


    "It peaks at the Skyfiend realm? Our Yu family has manuals in our collection. Two of them reach the sixth firmament Skyfiend realm. As for just the Skyfiend realm, there are dozens of those." The elder thought nothing of it. In the Wind Encasement Great World, there were numerous Skyfiends. A manual that peaked at the Skyfiend realm was just too common.


    "No, this cultivation manual suits me very well. After I read through it, I very quickly broke through to the second firmament Fiendcelestial realm," said the youth. "I keep feeling that by studying this manual, my cultivation speed becomes really fast. I improve more than what it used to take me ten years in a day."


    "What?"


    The elder was delighted. "Great. It''s best if it suits you. It looks like my son has obtained a cultivation manual that suits him best."


    Every cultivator had their talent.


    Those who were not cut out for cultivation would find it a torture.


    But if they found something most suitable to them, it was like adding wings to a tiger. Cultivation would feel like bliss.


    "Yes, it suits me very well." The youth nodded.


    "Don''t leave home in the days to come. We should monitor the situation," instructed the elder. "You can also use this time to cultivate properly."


    "Got it." The youth nodded.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched all of this from above.


    "The City Lord''s son and a woman are both connected to this Yu Fei?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows. "He suddenly found a cultivation manual that suits him very well? His strength rapidly broke through to the second firmament Fiendcelestial realm?


    "City Lord Manor''s divine inference failed to find the murderer?


    "How can everything be such a coincidence?"


    Qin Yun was already rather confident on this matter. "Furthermore, his father is terrified and uneasy. In contrast, Yu Fei appears obsequious, but in fact, he''s not at all flustered."


    ¡­


    Although he was confident, he continued waiting for five days.


    "There are really a lot of suspicious points.


    "He says he is cultivating diligently in front of his father and he says that he has learned a mystic art. But in fact, he does not cultivate at all while alone." Qin Yun smiled. "He probably¡­ didn''t imagine that someone whose attainments in space-time are higher than his would be secretly spying on him."


    Moxiu was ultimately an Ancestral Fiend.


    To secretly spy on him without his detection required an extremely high attainment in space-time. Even among pinnacle Ancestral Fiends, there were many who cultivated their bodies or array formations. Their attainments in space-time were not necessarily very high. Qin Yun''s Sword Dao contained Heaven, Earth, and Man. His grasp of space-time was impressive¡­ which gave him the courage and confidence to spy on Moxiu.


    "Three thousand plus targets."


    "In terms of possibilities, ranked first is this Yu Fei. It''s 99% him!"


    "Once I take action, I''ll alarm the Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend. I only have one chance. It''s him!" Qin Yun believed that there were too many coincidences. It ranged from the target''s incongruous behavior while being alone as well as how his strength increased without cultivating.


    Qin Yun could say nothing if he had really found the wrong target.


    ******


    "Young Master."


    Two beautiful slaves were waiting on the youth.


    The youth was laying half-slumped with the manual in hand. He looked carefree.


    "Sigh. This so-called dad of mine has forbidden me from going out. All I can do is bear with it." The youth appeared rather indignant. However, he was a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend. Coming from the Mental Demon lineage, he loved toying with one''s mind. He enjoyed stirring up something out of nothing. How could he be willing to stay put in an ordinary setting?


    "Oh, the both of you are good. Serve me well and you would be rewarded." The youth said with a smile.


    "Thank you, Young Master." The two beautiful slaves worked harder at fawning over him.


    And at that moment.


    Hua!


    A silver-haired gray-robed man appeared beside the youth without any warning. Meanwhile, he held a sheathed sword in his left hand. The scabbard was dark green in color and his right hand was on the sword''s hilt.


    At the instant he appeared, the plump youth saw the gray-robed man''s eyes which were filled with cold killing intent.


    "No good." The youth was alarmed. Even as a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend, he was feeling horror at the moment.


    "Escape!"


    Whoosh¡­


    Thousands of figures flew out from the youth''s body. The aura released by multitude of figures seemed to make the entire city freeze. This was the aura of an Ancestral Fiend! The Skyfiends and the other fiendish cultivators in the city were scared stiff. The fear was so innate they were powerless!


    "Poof!" The figures flew out from the body, but before they could get far out, sword flashes appeared!


    The gray-robed man slashed at the youth''s body with the sword in his right hand.


    "Die!" shouted Qin Yun lightly.


    He struck out with one strike!


    It was a strike that had its might converged, preventing any fluctuations. It was unlike Moxiu''s fervent release of the terrifying aura. The thousands of figures froze instantly as they silently decimated.


    Furthermore, this strike propagated down the karmic lines and slashed at Moxiu''s other four Mental Demon avatars.

 581 Its Qin Yun!

    Chapter 581: It''s Qin Yun!


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Far away in another fiendish Great World.


    A Skyfiend sat cross-legged in meditation by a lake in the wilderness. He suddenly opened his eyes, face filled with horror. "No!" He tried his best to resist the terrifying sword slash that traveled through distant space across a karmic transmission. The might of the slash had been greatly weakened after traveling through the karmic transmission, but it was not something Moxiu''s Mental Demon avatar could withstand.


    "Pfft!"


    Silently, the cross-legged figure was decimated into nothingness.


    ¡­


    The remaining four Mental Demon avatars were superficially at the Skyfiend realm, but in fact, they were one with the Mental Demon True Body! Their core vitals were intrinsically the Ancestral Fiend''s, so they were unable to enter Small Worlds.


    As for Moxiu''s true body, it had the means to control his Mental Demon avatars.


    Keeping the Mental Demon avatars too powerful would weaken the true body since their strength stemmed from the same source.


    The true body maintained ninety percent of his strength¡­ weakening the Mental Demon avatars. The few Mental Demon avatars were mostly at the sixth firmament Skyfiend realm. Only one of them possessed nearly ten percent of the overall strength, maintaining the might of a half-step Ancestral Fiend.


    "Pfft." A golden-armored Skyfiend on a throne dissipated similarly.


    "Pfft." In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, a flying Skyfiend was decimated as well.


    Only one was left.


    He was a red-robed bald man. He stood obediently underneath a temple among many figures. They were all listening to the preachings of an elder who sat on a blood-red lotus.


    This was Moxiu''s strongest avatar, possessing almost ten percent of his strength! Furthermore, it came under the tutelage of one of the powerhouses, Patriarch Blood Sea. Moxiu paid a lot of attention to this avatar. From his point of view, Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence¡­ was an extremely safe place. And even karmic attacks would be greatly weakened due to the interference from Patriarch Blood Sea''s cave abode.


    "No good." The red-robed baldy revealed a furious look.


    He did not even have the time to speak.


    The might of the strike had arrived through a karmic transmission.


    "This is Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence. This avatar of mine has the strength of a half-step Ancestral Fiend. It''s much stronger when it comes to resistance! I definitely can survive the strike!" The red-robed baldy had this thought surface in his mind while feeling anticipation.


    "I see it!"


    The red-robed baldy was able to see the strike unlike his other three avatars. Furthermore, he was the strongest Mental Demon avatar and he was positioned inside Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence!


    He saw the strike!


    The sword beam slashed across the boundless Chaos!


    As such, heaven and earth were split¡­


    The sword beam that sliced through the Chaos, splitting heaven and earth apart struck his body and soul.


    Even Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence only managed to weaken the sword beam slightly.


    "Pfft." Without a sound, the red-robed baldy was decimated both body and soul. Only a wisp of his True Spirit returned to Samsara.


    Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend Moxiu had been wiped out from the Three Realms!


    "This¡­ This¡­"


    "Who is so daring?"


    "To think he killed Junior Brother Chan."


    The fiendish cultivators around him who were listening to the preachings were horrified. This was Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence!


    "Oh?"


    Sitting high on a blood-colored lotus, the elder looked down. His eyes were cold. "Moxiu?"


    ******


    Wind Encasement Great World.


    The plump youth sent thousands of figures frantically flying in every direction, its terrifying might permeating the entire city. When the gray-robed man slashed out with his sword, all the thousands of figures were decimated. The plump youth''s body was vanquished as well.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun held the Qingping Sword and sensed the outcomes.


    The might of that one strike had reached the four Mental Demon avatars.


    The other three were easily killed.


    Only the red-robed baldy in Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence had put up some bit of resistance. The strike had less than ten percent of its original might after its karmic transmission. It was later affected by the Dao residence, weakening it further. However, the disparity in strength was extremely great, so he still managed to forcibly kill Moxiu''s final Mental Demon avatar.


    With all Mental Demon avatars dead, Moxiu had truly perished!


    Massive amounts of merit began descending upon him! The havoc that Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends wreaked on the Three Realms were similarly massive. There were only three Ancestral Fiends of the Mental Demon lineage, including Patriarch Mental Demon! They had long made the Three Realms tremble in fear, but now, one of them had perished.


    "Thankfully I used all my strength as well as the Qingping Sword," thought Qin Yun. "If I had used my Intrinsic Flying Sword, it might have matched the strength of the Qingping Sword, but in terms of mystical charm, it''s intrinsically different. I might not have been able to kill the Mental Demon avatar inside Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence."


    If he used his Intrinsic Flying Sword, he was using a pinnacle Great Dao.


    But if he used the Qingping Sword, Qin Yun was using the means of a perfected Great Dao.


    All these years, he had been carrying the Qingping Sword with him. His master had lent it to him to study the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, and it was indeed most suitable. The skill which Qin Yun had come up that he was most pleased with over the years was the Chaos Genesis Heaven Earth Split! But strictly speaking, what Qin Yun used was only a catalyst. It catalyzed the perfected Great Dao contained within the Connate Cardinal treasure Qingping Sword and released its strength. It was to date, Qin Yun''s strongest strike.


    It was a strike that could leave the Three Realms in fear.


    As the strike contained a perfected Great Dao''s strength¡ªmaking it equal Patriarch Blood Sea¡ªthe influence Patriarch Blood Sea''s Dao residence had on it was extremely low.


    ¡­


    At the instant Moxiu perished¡ª


    All the Ancestral Fiends who were cultivating in the Wind Encasement Great World immediately sensed it. They all knew that the Three Realms no longer had Moxiu among its inhabitants.


    "How audacious!"


    "How dare someone enter our fiendish dominion to kill Moxiu?"


    "Who is that arrogant?"


    These Ancestral Fiends were fuming. With a mere thought, they immediately activated the protective array of the Wind Encasement Great World.


    Qin Yun immediately sensed these changes when he killed Moxiu.


    "Space-time has been sealed." Qin Yun looked up into the sky. "The fiends sure reacted quickly."


    "Rumble!" A massive array spanning half a million kilometers appeared in the sky. There were blood runes dotting the array.


    Not only that, deep beneath the Wind Encasement Great World, there was also an ancient array formation which had been activated.


    "What happened?"


    "What''s happening?"


    In the city Qin Yun was in, the City Lord and the numerous Skyfiends, as well as the Yu family head, the other Fiendcelestials, and mortals, all looked at the massive array that appeared in midair in horror.


    This was the world array of the Wind Encasement Great World! They had never seen it their entire lives. Its might left their hearts palpitating in despair.


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun flew up into the sky and when he reached a high altitude, his gaze swept the area.


    Ancestral Fiends appeared one after another from every corner of the world. There were a total of six Ancestral Fiends. Five of them were ordinary Ancestral Fiends, with one of them being a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend.


    The fiends had ruled over ten dominions without any instabilities. The ten Great Worlds were perennially presided over by Ancestral Fiends. If there were any conflicts, even stronger Ancestral Fiends would rush over from the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss to reinforce them! Therefore, Qin Yun knew very well that the six Ancestral Fiends in front of him were only just the beginning.


    "You changed your looks and concealed yourself from the secrets of heaven. This act of furtiveness. Who exactly are you?" bellowed an Ancestral Fiend angrily. At that moment, Qin Yun was still in the guise of a silver-haired gray-robed man. He concealed himself from the secrets of heaven and had put away the Qingping Sword. These Ancestral Fiends had no means to recognize him.


    "Which mighty figure from the Three Realms are you?"


    "Why? Do you dare to it, but do not dare to admit to your identity?"


    These Ancestral Fiends spoke.


    Meanwhile, they activated the might of the worldly array and instantly, a massive blood rune descended upon Qin Yun.


    "Worldly array?" Qin Yun looked up, and with a wave of his hand, his Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out and split into three. It scattered in different directions and formed the Misty Rain Array! Qin Yun''s casting of the Misty Rain Array with his Intrinsic Flying Sword was his strongest defensive move. As for the Qingping Sword? He had yet to figure out a way to catalyze a defensive move from the Qingping Sword''s perfected Great Dao.


    "Three flying swords? Who is he?" The Ancestral Fiends still could not recognize him.


    Among the experts in the Three Realms, they knew nobody who used three flying swords.


    Ever since Qin Yun nurtured his Intrinsic Flying Sword to a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure, he had never really used it in battle.


    "Boom!"


    The blood runes descended in suppression as they attempted to erode the array, but they were completely fended off by the hazy Misty Rain Array.


    The Misty Rain Sword was an Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure, and it was augmented with great merit. It had split into three¡ªthe Heaven Sword, the Earth Sword, and the Man Sword¡ªallowing it to form the Misty Rain Array! It was naturally very formidable when it came to defense.


    "What a powerful array."


    "He managed to defend against the world array." The Ancestral Fiends were alarmed at the sword array''s might.


    Qin Yun extended his right hand and produced another sword in his hand. It was dark green in color, and there were carvings of lotus leaves on it. It no longer converged its might since Qin Yun was releasing all of it.


    "Chaos Genesis Heaven Earth Split! Kill!"


    The Qingping Sword flew out of Qin Yun''s hand and transformed into a blinding and resplendent green sword beam.


    The green sword beam was dazzling. It was like first light at the dawn of the universe! Instantly, all the Ancestral Fiends were mesmerized by it, as though they were watching how the heaven and earth split apart for the first time. At that instant, there was nothing in the world but that dazzling sword.


    It was indefensible!


    Death was certain if anyone attempted to block it!


    The few ordinary Ancestral Fiends also realized this.


    "He''s Qin Yun!"


    "That''s the Qingping Sword, a Connate Cardinal treasure!" The Ancestral Fiends had great changes in expressions.


    "All of you, listen to my command." The only pinnacle Ancestral Fiend remained composed as he bellowed an angry order.

 582 Patriarch Blood Sea

    Chapter 582: Patriarch Blood Sea


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The six Ancestral Fiends were originally filled with confidence. They believed that the Moxiu''s murderer was a pinnacle Golden Immortal! As for existences that were at the higher perfected Great Dao realm¡­ they were almost equal to the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor. They were practically invincible in Great Worlds. There was no need for such a being to act so furtively when killing Moxiu.


    They guessed right!


    The murderer was indeed at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, but he was a sword immortal known for destroying all Dharma with a single sword!


    Even so, these six Ancestral Fiends thought nothing of that. They had a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend among them, and they had a massive worldly array on their side. They held the absolute advantage against any existence below a perfected Great Dao!


    But Qin Yun had the Connate Cardinal treasure, the Qingping Sword! That made things different!


    That was the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s treasured sword. Who wouldn''t be afraid from seeing it?


    "All of you are to retreat to the middle of the array," instructed the pinnacle Ancestral Fiend.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The six Ancestral Fiends quickly engaged in Void Transference.


    Instantly, they appeared in the middle of the massive array formation that spanned half a million kilometers in the sky.


    "This worldly array that protects this Great World is indeed impressive. Its lockdown of space-time is something even pinnacle Golden Immortals can''t crack open," thought Qin Yun. "Furthermore, the Ancestral Fiends who are controlling the array formation are not affected by it. They are still able to engage in Void Transference."


    One side was unable to engage in Void Transference, but the other side could.


    This was the number one advantage of controlling a worldly array!


    "Set up a formation to be on full defense," ordered the pinnacle Ancestral Fiend hurriedly via voice transmission. The other five Ancestral Fiends did not hesitate at all.


    Following that, they took control of the worldly array.


    The Misty Rain Array which had suppressed the blood-colored runes also began to dissipate.


    A total of ten blood-colored runes appeared around the six Ancestral Fiends to protect them in every direction. It was like a gigantic multi-faced decahedron. It ensured an impregnable defense as the blood-colored runes was constantly moving slowly.


    "Here it comes." The hearts of the six Ancestral Fiends tightened.


    "Whoosh."


    The dazzling sword wisp tore through the barriers of space-time and similarly appeared in front of the six.


    They were unable to escape the strike even with Void Transference! The Qingping Sword exceeded Qin Yun''s Sword Dao in the aspect of space-time. It was at an even more brilliant stage. Space-time lockdowns were relative. Typical space-time lockdowns could suppress ordinary immortals, Buddhas, and fiendish demons. It was even possible that even ordinary Golden Immortals would be unable to crack them. However, Qin Yun could do so. Back then, he swept through the twenty-six fiendish nests easily by opening up a space-time passageway.


    As for even more brilliant space-time lockdowns, they had an extremely high setup cost.


    And worldly arrays in the Great Worlds of the fiendish dominions were as such! They could suppress pinnacle Golden Immortals, but they were unable to suppress those at the perfected Great Dao level or a powerful treasure like the Qingping Sword!


    "Bam!"


    The green sword beam slashed down.


    It easily entered the deepest depths of the massive array, shattering the omnidirectional protection of the worldly array''s blood-colored runes. Even though new runes appeared immediately, they too would be shattered before they could completely take form. Furthermore, there were three alloyed metal bangles around the six Ancestral Fiends. Each bangle overlaid one another to protect the six Ancestral Fiends.


    The sword beam''s remnant might cleaved down on the alloyed metal bangles, sending one flying, but the sword beam lost all its momentum after sending tremors to the second one.


    Immediately, the omnidirectional blood-colored runes shrank rapidly to protect the six Ancestral Fiends again.


    "It was so close." The six Ancestral Fiends felt a lingering fear.


    "Is this the might of the Qingping Sword?" The pinnacle Ancestral Fiend''s expression changed. "If the worldly array had not fended off eighty percent of the Qingping Sword''s might, I would probably have perished under the Qingping Sword if I faced it alone."


    "That Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor sure is capricious. He actually bestowed a Connate Cardinal treasure to an Itinerant Immortal."


    "I hope there will come a day when this Connate Cardinal treasure is snatched away."


    The Ancestral Fiends were both fearful and jealous.


    Connate Cardinal treasures were treasures that the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor used. Even many of the existences with a perfected Great Dao did not have Connate Cardinal treasures! They were extremely valuable. In the Three Realms, only the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had lent a Connate Cardinal treasure to a pinnacle Golden Immortal.


    He was the only one who had ever done so.


    Back then, he had bestowed the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads to his beloved disciple, Zhao Gongming. With that item in hand, Zhao Gongming sent reverberations through the Three Realms. He produced brilliant results during the war of the three Daoist factions. But eventually, the treasure landed in the hands of Daoist Burning Lamp. He became a Buddhist and transformed the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads into the twenty-four heavens, allowing him to attain a perfected Great Dao.


    Now¡­


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had done the same thing again. He had lent the Qingping Sword which had accompanied him for many years to Qin Yun.


    Although it was said to be a temporary loan, Qin Yun was, at present, making terrifying use of it.


    Although Qin Yun was considered one of the strongest combat forces among pinnacle Golden Immortals, making him even more powerful with the Qingping Sword, he was still only able to produce a portion of the Qingping Sword''s might. There was still a lot of hope to snatch the Connate Cardinal treasure from him.


    "Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, back then, your disciple, Zhao Gongming, had his Connate Cardinal treasure snatched. I hope there will come a day when this Qin Yun has the Connate Cardinal treasure snatched as well," thought the pinnacle Ancestral Fiend.


    ¡­


    Although they were secretly ruminating over the matter, they still carefully hid inside the worldly array''s core.


    Only existences at the perfected Great Dao could scheme against Qin Yun.


    They were incapable of doing so.


    Qin Yun looked up at the six Ancestral Fiends. "This worldly array seems to have perpetual vitality. With the array''s obstruction, I can''t kill them. I was still planning on killing another Ancestral Fiend or two.


    "Whatever, it''s time to return."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The Qingping Sword flashed and appeared in Qin Yun''s hand.


    "Open!"


    Qin Yun used the Qingping Sword again and ripped open space.


    "You wish to leave after killing one of our Ancestral Fiends?" A voice rumbled across the world. A massive hand extended from a spatial passageway and came rearing down on Qin Yun.


    The massive hand blotted out the skies, and one could see the intricate patterns on the palm. Each finger was like a heavenly column. The palm was ruddy and its surface contained Negative Karma Fire.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea!" The six Ancestral Fiends who were hiding in the array''s core were delighted upon seeing this.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Open!"


    Although Qin Yun was alarmed, he showed no fear. He continued maintaining the Misty Rain Array while controlling the Qingping Sword.


    The Qingping Sword transformed into a sword beam that seemed to split apart the Chaos. It was amazingly fast as it tore through the void''s obstructions and met the sky-blotting palm.


    Rip!


    The sword beam sliced through everything it passed through.


    The sword sliced open a long crack through the gigantic palm. The skin that suffused Negative Karma Fire ruptured to reveal the infinite sanguine light within. Although a long gash was formed, the gigantic palm came to a slight pause. The wound slowly healed and simultaneously came crushing down. The Qingping Sword immediately appeared back by Qin Yun''s side with a flash, leaving the palm to strike the blurry Misty Rain Array.


    With a loud boom, the infinite Negative Karma Fire burned the Misty Rain Array.


    However, the blurry Misty Rain Array only trembled slightly as it diverted and dissipated the forces.


    Although it was less mystical, the Misty Rain Array''s might was approaching that of the Qingping Sword''s. Furthermore, the Misty Rain Array was extremely good at defense due to being created by the Heaven Sword, Earth Sword, and Man Sword. It was a perfect defense.


    "Take another strike of mine." The hand came ''pointing'' down like it was plucking a flower.


    This tap was gentle and warm.


    The massive finger tapped the Misty Rain Array while seeming to lack any oppressive force, but a strange wave penetrated the array.


    The Misty Rain Array did its best to weaken the wave.


    But it only managed to weaken a portion of the wave. When the formless wave transmitted across the Misty Rain Array, Qin Yun slashed out with the Qingping Sword in alarm. It was still the same Chaos Genesis Heaven Earth Split. The Qingping Sword''s mystical beam weakened more than half the wave''s might, as the remaining might entered Qin Yun''s body.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun felt his Essence Soul resonate as he felt disgusted. After the strange force penetrated Qin Yun''s Essence Soul, he instinctively used his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to expel the force.


    "Destroy!"


    Now that his Essence Soul was at the pinnacle Golden Immortal stage, how vast were his Dharmic powers? Furthermore, how sharp were a sword immortal''s Dharmic powers?


    However, it took about twenty percent of his Dharmic powers to expel the strange force.


    "Eldest Senior Sister, if you don''t take action, I won''t be able to last much longer," said Qin Yun through a voice transmission immediately. He had only figured out one offensive move from the Qingping Sword and had yet to figure out a defensive move. For him to dare to enter the fiendish dominions to kill an Ancestral Fiend, he naturally had precautions in place! After all, the ancient existences might not mind an Itinerant Immortal with a ten-thousand-year lifespan, but many of them coveted the Qingping Sword! He naturally had to be careful!


    In a desolate plain thousands of kilometers away from Qin Yun was an elderly woman with a staff.


    She smiled as she looked up and watched everything.

 583 Severing Karma

    Chapter 583: Severing Karma


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Junior Brother, don''t be afraid. With your sword arts, you should still be able to withstand a few more strikes," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain smilingly via voice transmission.


    "Eldest Senior Sister, stop pulling my leg," said Qin Yun immediately via voice transmission. The Misty Rain Array which he was proud of was indeed good at defense, but he had just expended twenty percent of his Dharmic powers after using every other means possible. A few more strikes would probably require him to consume Immortal Pills to replenish his Dharmic powers. Now that he had an Essence Soul at the pinnacle Golden Immortal stage, the Immortal Pill expenditure needed to recover his Dharmic powers would be alarming.


    While the two fellow disciples were communicating by voice transmissions, the gigantic palm that had penetrated space-time high in the sky delivered its third strike. This time, it formed the shape of a claw, and its periphery created Chaos streams as it plunged down rapidly.


    "Whoosh." Although Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain was teasing Qin Yun, she still waved the staff in her hand.


    The moment she moved it, it expanded rapidly to more than fifty thousand kilometers! Everything around the staff returned to Chaos as its obstreperous might was even stronger than that of the palm in the sky. The appearance of the staff made it seem as though the mythical Mount Buzhou 1had appeared once again.


    "It''s Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain!"


    "She''s actually here?"


    The hearts of the six Ancestral Fiends who were hiding in the array formation trembled.


    Her reputation preceded her.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain''s fame was just too great. She was the eldest senior sister of Green Touring Palace! The Great Dao she had gained insights inro was that of the Limitless Great Dao! It was also why she was called the Limitless Mother and Heavenly Lord of Limitless.


    The strength of a perfected Great Dao existence naturally had much to do with their Dao. For instance, Patriarch Blood Sea''s Blood Sea Great Dao brought the existence of the blood sea which made death impossible. Patriarch Blood Sea''s ability to not die was naturally very impressive. In addition, the Blood Sea Great Dao was a Great Dao of heinous sin¡­ His means were rather odd, and used against juniors, he could use the powers of his blood sea to repress others.


    As an ancient cultivation existence, the terror which Patriarch Blood Sea''s name struck in the minds of others was extremely high as well.


    However, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain''s Limitless Great Dao was even more powerful and domineering!


    Now, and many other times, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain took center stage when it came to matters of Green Touring Palace.


    "Boom!!!"


    When she struck out with her staff, the heavens seemed to be penetrated as it collided with Patriarch Blood Sea''s claw.


    What followed was a resonating hum.


    The might of this collision made Qin Yun''s expression change slightly. However, the Misty Rain Array protected him, preventing the remnant shock waves from affecting him.


    "It''s indeed terrifying when perfected Great Dao existences clash." Qin Yun watched with his head up. "My Itinerant Immortal body is still too weak. It''s incomparable to Physical Establishing Sage like Yang Jian and company¡­ After this, I have to spend more time on studying the Qingping Sword. If I''m able to deliver more of the Qingping Sword''s moves, I would be able to figure out some defensive moves at least."


    Although his Sword Dao had formed, there was still a need to separately figure out the Great Dao of Heaven, the Great Dao of Earth, and the Great Dao of Man. Only then could he combine them to form a perfected Great Dao.


    For him to engage in a few rounds of battle with perfected Great Dao existences, he temporarily had to rely on the Qingping Sword.


    In fact¡­


    In all of the Three Realms, pinnacle Golden Immortals had no way to battle perfected Great Dao existences if they lacked Connate Cardinal treasures! Even pinnacle Golden Immortals of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage could only last a few blows with their bodies, but they would still be trampled in the end. Those that were lucky to escape with their lives were considered rather impressive.


    ¡­


    In the sky.


    Accompanied by the loud boom and the strike of the staff, Patriarch Blood Sea''s gigantic fingers began cracking. The staff pierced through Patriarch Blood Sea''s palm, leaving a huge hole in it. The palm then dissolved into boundless sanguine light.


    Amid the sanguine line appeared a gigantic face that looked down. "Wudang, you actually came as well? From the looks of it, you really cherish this junior brother of yours."


    "Hmph." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain took one step to appear beside Qin Yun. The Misty Rain Array had naturally allowed her entry without obstruction.


    "Junior Brother, don''t bother speaking to this old fool. Let''s go." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain said as she struck out her staff. With a rumbling boom, she tore open a spatial passageway. Following that, she entered the passageway with Qin Yun and left. The worldly array was unable to seal her in at all. Even Patriarch Blood Sea was unable to stop her.


    The face within the boundless sanguine light looked down at this scene.


    "Before I took action, I had sealed off the Wind Encasement Great World. It could have held back a perfected Great Dao existence for a while," thought Patriarch Blood Sea. "Unfortunately, this Wudang had come to the Wind Encasement Great World ahead of time. She was ready to save Qin Yun at any time. From the looks of it, this Qin Yun is quite a careful one."


    "Patriarch."


    The six Ancestral Fiends bowed reverently.


    The face within the boundless sanguine light looked down before it dissipated into nothingness. It tore through space and returned to the blood sea.


    ¡­


    Heavenly Courts.


    A heavenly general was on watch when his expression changed suddenly.


    "Boom!" His body and even Essence Soul suddenly exploded, producing a powerful blast.


    "What''s happening?"


    "What happened?" It immediately caused a stir.


    ¡­


    There was a Daoist in cultivation who suddenly opened his eyes in alarm as he exploded.


    ¡­


    Guan River.


    A general who was leading a platoon of soldiers in an exercise revealed an alarmed look. Following that, there was an explosion. It even killed three relatively weak heavenly soldiers nearby and injured a general.


    "Oh?" Inside the manor, Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, looked towards the practice ground and did some inference. "Qin Yun killed Moxiu?"


    ¡­


    There were many cultivators in the Three Realms who exploded.


    The Heavenly Courts and various places quickly learned that Qin Yun had infiltrated the fiendish dominion and killed Ancestral Fiend Moxiu of the Mental Demon lineage! The death of a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend naturally caused all his mental demon servants to explode. They were under the complete control of a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend, making them absolutely loyal. Just this alone determined that there were more than fifty mental demon servants.


    Thankfully, the strongest mental demon servant had the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal. The loss was nothing considerable, but it also made the various factions in the Three Realms realize the threat of the Mental Demon lineage.


    Of course, after Qin Yun''s assault, there were only two Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends left in the Three Realms.


    "Nice, this Qin Yun actually dared to infiltrate a fiendish dominion."


    "I''m truly impressed."


    "Star Destruction died under his hand, and now, Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend Moxiu had succumbed. With his destruction of the twenty-six fiendish nests, the fiends must hate him to the bone!"


    "Fellow Daoist Qin is an Itinerant Immortal. He is fighting for a chance of survival, so why would he care if the fiends hate him?"


    Mighty figures discussed.


    ******


    Heavenly realm. Blackfoal Mountain.


    While walking on Blackfoal Mountain and watching the pear blossoms, the two fellow disciples were chatting.


    "Junior Brother, you must not be so rash in the future." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain looked at Qin Yun. "The fiendish dominions are not that easy to infiltrate. There, we are discriminated against by the world itself. Our strength is repressed. The worldly array also represses your strength. It''s very dangerous for pinnacle Golden Immortals to enter."


    "Eldest Senior Sister," said Qin Yun immediately. "I had to sever the karma. Every moment I didn''t, the karma I owed constantly influenced my cultivation. By ending it earlier, I can cultivate in peace earlier. Therefore, I rushed to kill the Ancestral Fiend before I comprehended much of the Qingping Sword. In the future, I will naturally not do so."


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded. "Alright. Focus on your cultivation. Do not let down Master''s hopes for you."


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded. He knew his master regarded him highly. If not, he would not have lent his personal sword to him. This temporary loan had the risk of loss. For example¡­ the Dao Ancestor was unable to enter a Great World with his true body.


    "Every perfected Great Dao existence has reached the limits. They pose great danger to you," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain seriously. "The Qingping Sword can be used to gain insight for you, but it similarly brings danger unto you. Those old bastards once schemed against Junior Brother Zhao. You must learn from his mistakes."


    "Eldest Senior Sister, don''t worry. I will definitely be careful," said Qin Yun.


    If he lost the Qingping Sword¡­ how was he to answer to the trust his master had given him?


    "Alright, quickly enter seclusion," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    "Eldest Senior Sister, I bid you farewell then." Qin Yun cupped his hands and bowed.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded slightly.


    Then, a blurry light descended and Qin Yun had departed to the Green Touring Palace.


    The purpose for this trip to the Green Touring Palace was to enter the Immortal Vanquishing Hall for seclusive cultivation.


    After spending more than two centuries, he had finally resolved the impending disasters of his homeworld as well as severed the karma of Moxiu. He could now finally cultivate in peace.

 584 Lightning Beasts Bestowmen

    Chapter 584: Lightning Beast''s Bestowment


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Green Touring Palace, Immortal Vanquishing Hall.


    When Qin Yun entered the Immortal Vanquishing Hall, all he saw was the formidable void. An array graph hovered in the void as four Connate Divine Swords floated at its four corners.


    "The Immortal Vanquishing Sword, Immortal Slaying Sword, Immortal Entrapment Sword, and the Immortal Peril Sword. These four divine swords are all Connate Cardinal treasures. Master obtained them and studied them, and even managed to forge this Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array, combining these four Connate Cardinal treasures into one, making it the strongest decimation array in the Three Realms." Qin Yun immediately sat cross-legged within the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array and sensed it.


    The four divine swords were catered to decimation.


    The Immortal Vanquishing Sword was domineering like the sun in the sky. Its Sword Qi raged in an extremely formidable manner. It left one lacking the courage to resist it.


    The Immortal Slaying Sword was even more ruthless and bloodthirsty. Just a slight probe from Qin Yun made him feel appalled.


    The Immortal Entrapment Sword was mysterious with its soft characteristics. It was like a gentle breeze that would make one unknowingly fall into a spider''s web. Once that happened, it was almost impossible to get out.


    As for the Immortal Peril Sword, it severed all life. Contact meant imminent death.


    "The Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array is able to perfectly fuse these four divine swords?" Qin Yun was impressed. "My Misty Rain Sword can be split into three, forming the Heaven, Earth, and Man Swords. However, the three swords were originally one, so there is no need for an array graph to perfectly fuse them together. But with these four swords, Master first obtained them before forging an array graph to fuse them together. As such, it''s this array graph that is the most impressive thing here."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a black jade bottle. He pulled its stopper as a drop of Samsara Dew was carried out by his Dharmic powers. It was absorbed the moment it entered Qin Yun''s mouth, spreading across his Essence Soul.


    Even as he felt a little intoxicated, ideas began to surface in his mind that he immediately ruminated on.


    He only had slightly more than ten thousand years left before the Itinerant Immortal''s twelfth tribulation. He naturally had to keep using Samsara Dew for cultivation.


    Connate Cardinal treasures all contained a perfected Great Dao.


    There were four perfected Great Dao around him, allowing him to study them as he wished. There was even the array graph that fused the four perfected Great Dao together. The mystical charm contained within the graph was infinite. Qin Yun completely immersed himself in it as he made tremendous gains daily. He felt like a starving and thirsty tourist in a desert as he constantly drew on this oasis.


    ¡­


    Great Chang world''s Qin Manor.


    "Didn''t Dad say we would be moving to the Heavenly realm? Why hasn''t there been any news? He doesn''t answer me when I asked¡­ All he did was instruct both Mom and I to choose a location." Qin Yiyi was feeling bored in her room. "Double Wood and Meng Huan are still in seclusive cultivation, but I have already exited seclusion! How boring. I really want to go out, but my parents forbid it."


    "Oh?" Qin Yiyi sensed something as she flicked her hand.


    The void beside her produced ripples as it connected to a distant space. She could clearly see an underwater manor on the other side. Water flowed as two Skydragon realm dragon ladies stood there.


    "Sister Yiyi," called out the two dragon ladies passionately.


    "Sister Hong, Sister Fan. Why are you suddenly looking for me?" Qin Yiyi was very happy. She was just sulking at how bored she was.


    "Sister Yiyi, we just learned of some news. Skyfiend Qin went to the fiendish dominion''s Wind Encasement Great World and killed the Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend, Moxiu. That''s an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage. I heard when that Ancestral Fiend died, it caused many of his mental demon servants to perish as well. Among those mental demon servants, two were half-step Daoist Golden Immortals. There were even more ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortals."


    "The Mental Demon lineage has a total of three Ancestral Fiends. For Senior Qin to kill one, it''s truly¡ª"


    The two dragon ladies were reeling in excitement as they said this.


    "Wait, wait, wait," said Qin Yiyi immediately.


    The two dragon ladies were taken aback.


    "Are you you telling me that my dad killed a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend?" Qin Yiyi widened her eyes. "When did this happen?"


    "You aren''t aware of it?" The two dragon ladies were astonished.


    "Sister Yiyi, only mighty figures knew of the death of the Ancestral Fiend in the beginning. It took a few days to reach our Effulgent Great World. We dragons learned of the news a little faster, but I believe it won''t take long for many Skyimmortals in the Effulgent Great World to learn of the matter."


    What the two dragon ladies said left Qin Yiyi stunned.


    She really had no idea.


    Qin Yun had only informed his wife after successfully killing the Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend before he entered seclusion. Yi Xiao was more concerned about the reaction after her husband killed an Ancestral Fiend, especially the reaction of the fiends¡­ Hence, she was not in a hurry to tell Yiyi and Meng Huan.


    Stuck in the Great Chang world, Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan had no way to come into direct contact with this piece of news.


    "Sister Yiyi, it''s definitely true. You will know of it if you try to gather more information."


    "Rumor has it that Senior Qin used the Qingping Sword, causing the collective efforts of all the Ancestral Fiends in the Wind Encasement Great World to be fruitless against him. Even the fiendish worldly array was useless. Later, Senior Qin managed to easily return."


    "The mighty figures of the Three Realms would not enter a fiendish dominion so easily. Yet, Senior Qin entered to kill a Ancestral Fiend, and sent the numerous Ancestral Fiends into retreat, as well as left easily. It''s truly impressive," explained the two dragon ladies.


    The account that spread had not included Patriarch Blood Sea and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    Much of the news that spread in the Three Realms typically would not mention existences with a perfected Great Dao! It was as though it was taboo; therefore, even mighty figures would know very little about perfected Great Dao existences. They might not even know of them at all. For example, the Three Realms only knew of Patriarch Bodhi due to his part in the Daoist-Fiend war.


    Before that, many mighty figures had not even heard of him.


    These existences were mostly born out of the Chaos. They were neither Daoists or Buddhists. Regardless of the faction¡ªthe three Daoist lineages, Heavenly Courts, Buddhism¡ªno one would cross them easily. If any of them was willing to join a faction, they would immediately become a region''s supreme ruler.


    For instance, the Heavenly Courts'' Emperor Polestar, and the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation, as well as Buddhism''s D¨©pankara Buddha.


    All factions would try their best to rope in these existences, and even if it was impossible, none of them would wish to cross them.


    "Whoosh." The void returned to normal.


    Qin Yiyi was still feeling astounded.


    "Dad accomplished such a massive task, but he didn''t tell us? He sure can keep things to himself." Qin Yiyi could not help but mutter softly before leaving the room immediately.


    Soon she found Yi Xiao, who was drawing talismans in a garden.


    The garden was filled with fragrant blooming flowers as Yi Xiao leisurely drew her talismans among them.


    "Mom." Qin Yiyi shouted immediately.


    Yi Xiao continued drawing her talisman, stopping only when she was done. She then looked up at her daughter.


    "Whoosh." However, a ten-foot tall Guardian General dressed in golden armor with runes plastered across his face suddenly appeared. He bowed reverently. "Madam Master, there is a Lightning Beast Manor ambassador outside who wishes to seek an audience."


    "Lightning Beast Manor ambassador?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "It is also a Guardian General," said the Guardian General with a smile. "However, it has the strength of a pinnacle Skyimmortal."


    "Summon it in," Yi Xiao instructed with a nod. The Great Chang world''s array formation was very powerful. Only ordinary mighty figures might be able to withstand it. Even if Star Destruction came back to life, it was unlikely for him to tear through its defenses. As for a Guardian General with the strength of a pinnacle Skyimmortal? They could be easily taken to task.


    ¡­


    Moments later.


    Yi Xiao came to a chamber before she knocked on the door.


    Qin Yun''s avatar, which was sitting cross-legged inside, opened his eyes slowly. As his true body was completely immersed in cultivation in the Green Touring Palace''s Immortal Vanquishing Hall, having an avatar act meant that some focus had to be diverted! Although such a slight diversion had little effect, it was naturally best to be fully focused.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun got up and opened the door only to see his wife.


    "I know you are in seclusion, but there''s something that requires your decision, Brother Yun," said Yi Xiao.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    Yi Xiao brought Qin Yun to a garden, and standing there was a black-robed elder.


    "It''s you? The Guardian General from the Lightning Beast Manor?" Qin Yun recognized him.


    The black-robed elder bowed respectfully as he said in excitement, "Thank you, Sword Immortal Qin, for killing that Ancestral Fiend Moxiu. This was something my master wished to do even at the cost of his life. Although it was not able to happen during the Daoist-Fiend war, Sword Immortal Qin has finally managed to help my master accomplish it."


    "It was agreed upon that receiving your Lightning Fruits meant that I had to kill Moxiu once I attained the strength of a pinnacle Golden Immortal," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "How can those few Lightning Fruits be comparable to the debt of killing Moxiu?" The black-robed elder said respectfully. "The continued existence of the Lightning Beast Manor was to attract generations of cultivators. There was a wish that a powerhouse would be born out of them so that they could kill Moxiu! My master had done this back then out of no choice, which was why he created this contingency plan. In fact, my master knew that the chances were slim¡­ after all, an Ancestral Fiend of the Mental Demon lineage is extremely hard to kill.


    "And now, Sword Immortal Qin, you have accomplished it," said the black-robed gratefully. "My master also instructed that anyone who succeeds in doing so will gain full possession of everything in Lightning Beast Manor."


    As the black-robed spoke, he flipped his hand, producing a miniature cave abode.


    "This is the cave abode my master went to great lengths to refine in order to transplant the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree," said the black-robed elder. "Now, the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree is within. All the treasures of the Lightning Beast Manor are inside as well. Sword Immortal Qin, please accept it."


    Qin Yun was surprised.


    Everything in Lightning Beast Manor was bestowed to him after killing Moxiu?


    Even though he had many treasures at the moment, apart from the Qingping Sword and his Intrinsic Flying Sword, the only treasure he had that could compare with the Lightning Beast Manor was his thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone.


    "Alright. I''ll accept it." Qin Yun immediately extended his hand to receive it without hesitation.

 585 Inside the Immortal Vanquishing Hall for Three Centuries

    Chapter 585: Inside the Immortal Vanquishing Hall for Three Centuries


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "The six of us Guardian Generals are also willing to follow Sword Immortal Qin," said the black-robed elder reverently.


    Qin Yun held the miniature cave abode and swept it with his mind to discover the other five Guardian Generals within. Even their Life Charms were inside.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Five streams of light flew out and manifested into the five Guardian Generals.


    "If you wish to regain your freedom, I can return your Life Charms," said Qin Yun.


    The six Guardian Generals exchanged looks. They had long decided before coming to Qin Yun.


    "We are Guardian Generals. Even if we regained our freedom, we would probably be captured while outside," said the black-robed elder who was leader. "The six of us have already discussed and are willing to follow you, Sword Immortal Qin."


    Guardian Generals who regained their freedom usually had to hide in Small Worlds. Furthermore, they had to be very careful to prevent exposure.


    Once they were exposed¡­


    It was possible that they would be captured by powerful entities.


    In contrast, they would be safer and happier following an expert. Now, the number one Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms, Sword Immortal Qin, was extremely famous. His fame exceeded that of the Lightning Beast Bai Xiao''s yesteryear fame.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded. "All of you will be following me in the future. By the way, how long can the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree remain in the cave abode?"


    "This artifact was specially refined by the manor lord in the Chaos, for the sole purpose of transplanting the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree. Inside the cave abode, the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree can exist perpetually," said the black-robed elder. "However, it will not be able to produce more fruits. To grow fruits¡­ there''s a need to find a suitable wonderland. There are records inside the cave abode of how such a wonderland should be selected."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "From the looks of it, more thought has to be paid in our move to the Heavenly realm," joked Yi Xiao.


    "I''ll be troubling you then, my wife," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Dad, why did you hide the big news of you killing an Ancestral Fiend from me?" said Qin Yiyi immediately. "My friends even learned of it before me."


    "It''s my fault. I''m cultivating in seclusion." Qin Yun smiled at his daughter. He was fond of this daughter who he found after she was snatched away shortly after her birth.


    "Dad, so will we be moving once you finish your seclusion?" asked Qin Yiyi.


    "Probably in three centuries," said Qin Yun.


    "Three centuries?" Qin Yiyi widened her eyes. "That long?"


    "How can you cultivate if you don''t have that bit of patience?" Yi Xiao berated her lightly.


    Qin Yiyi immediately nodded obediently. "Yes, I have the patience."


    ¡­


    The reason why Qin Yun claimed that his seclusion would last three centuries had to do with how long the Samsara Dew he purchased could last. After all, ever since his Essence Soul broke through to the pinnacle Golden Immortal stage, his expenditure of Samsara Dew accelerated.


    Years passed one by one.


    In that time Han Lin, Meng Huan, and Qin Yiyi, who was very perceptive to begin with and had access to all the treasures of the Qin family, managed to become Skyimmortals. It was actually Yi Xiao''s cultivation that was the slowest. She remained as an Earth Immortal.


    Green Touring Palace, Immortal Vanquishing Hall.


    Above the massive array graph in the void, the cross-legged Qin Yun finally opened his eyes.


    "It''s been three centuries. All the Samsara Dew has indeed been expended." Qin Yun looked at the black bottle in his hand.


    "These three centuries of cultivation have given me more insight than my years of cultivation in the past." Qin Yun felt a little wistful.


    During these three centuries, he had fervently nourished himself.


    When his Sword Dao was first formed¡­ it became time for him to gain insights into the Great Dao of Heaven, the Great Dao of Earth, and the Great Dao of Man.


    He also had the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array in front of him, as well as the Qingping Sword on him.


    With a pinnacle Golden Immortal Essence Soul, he consumed Samsara Dew and focused on cultivation for three centuries. He had amassed quite a great deal.


    "I''ve gained the most insights into the Great Dao of Heaven. I''ve even figured out several Golden Immortal level moves. I feel that I can break through at any time to make it a Great Dao," thought Qin Yun. "The Great Dao of Earth is next, followed by the Great Dao of Man."


    Qin Yun could sense it from studying the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array.


    His master''s insights into the Heaven and Earth were the deepest. The Qingping Sword was best at this aspect, and even the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array appeared like the infinite Heaven and Earth as it contained the four divine swords within. Therefore, he improved the most in those two Great Dao. As for the Great Dao of Man, progress was slower.


    "It''s time to return."


    "Since Master did not limit my cultivation in the Immortal Vanquishing Hall, I can re-enter at any time." Qin Yun immediately got up and left.


    In fact, studying the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array did not affect the four Connate Divine Swords and the array graph at all.


    It was unlike the Myriad Dharma Pool where every year of cultivation cost dearly.


    However, only a handful of people in all of the Green Touring Palace had the right to enter the Immortal Vanquishing Hall. The reason was that too weak a realm would only invite harm! The sword array''s decimation aura was just too intense, so weaklings were unable to withstand it. Typically, only experienced pinnacle Golden Immortals could enter. Qin Yun was able to enter since he cultivated in the Sword Dao and his Essence Soul Dharmic powers were extremely sharp. He could perfectly adapt to the sword array. In fact, Qin Yun had the highest affinity with the sword array among all the disciples in Green Touring Palace.


    The Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor favored such a disciple who was so adept in the Sword Dao. It was also why the Dao Ancestor was so angry when Qin Yun chose not to break through his Essence Soul in order to find the source of his homeworld''s calamity.


    ******


    Great Chang world''s Qin Manor.


    The family was gathered together as they enjoyed good food and drinks.


    "Let''s prepare to move," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Yahoo!" Qin Yiyi jumped up in joy. "We are finally moving! I''ve been stuck here in the Great Chang world for more than a thousand years already."


    "The three hundred years I talked about was three hundred years in the Green Touring Palace. It''s my fault. My fault," said Qin Yun immediately.


    Han Lin was smiling by the side.


    Finally¡ª


    They were finally moving. He could finally marry Sis Yiyi. He had really waited for a long time!


    Meng Huan also smiled as he watched from the side. He had long wanted to go out on adventures, but he felt that since his father was an Itinerant Immortal, every year was precious. He wished to spend time with his father.


    "Then, we shall not change the location. Crescent Bay?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Crescent Bay." Yi Xiao nodded. Qin Yiyi nodded as well. Meng Huan and Han Lin did not raise any objections either.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, East Victory Divine Continent, Crescent Bay.


    Crescent Bay was indeed a beautiful place. It was by mountains and lakes. The tall mountain beside it was named Mt. Lightning Wolf. It was also the reason why Qin Yun''s family chose this place. Mt. Lightning Wolf could gather lightning and as long as an array formation was used to guide the lightning, it would be most suitable wonderland for the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree to grow. As the center of the Three Realms, the Heavenly realm had many similar wonderlands.


    Therefore, many mighty figures took up residence here. Even the Buddhism''s Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous was in the Heavenly realm.


    "Mt. Lightning Wolf." Qin Yun carried the Qingping Sword on his back as he appeared above Crescent Bay as he looked at the mountain in front of him. "After we move, this mountain''s name should change!"


    Mt. Lightning Wolf could gather lightning, so it was barely considered a minor wonderland in the Three Realms. It naturally attracted experts to occupy it, but Qin Yun still chose this spot¡­ This was because the lord of Mt. Lightning Wolf was a demon king whose strength was at the half-step Sagedemon realm. Such strength could barely occupy such a minor wonderland, but as for better wonderlands? That demon king had no hopes of occupying anything better.


    As for Qin Yun?


    Qin Yun did not set up a sect, so this place was naturally enough if it was just for the Qin family''s residence.


    "Come out." Qin Yun looked down as he beckoned with his hand. Invisible Sword Qi pulled out the demon king from Mt. Lightning Wolf.


    The demon king had a wolf''s head with a human body. His head was covered in silver fur and he was appalled as he was being carried up by invisible Sword Qi. Before he even saw Qin Yun, he was already shouting, "Spare me! Spare me, please!"


    "Sword Immortal Qin?" The lightning wolf demon turned pale from fright when he saw Qin Yun.


    Who didn''t know that Sword Immortal Qin abhorred evil?


    This Sword Immortal Qin was immensely powerful! With the Qingping Sword in hand, he was invincible in the Three Realms if perfected Great Dao existences were not around.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me. Spare me." Lightning Wolf Demon King knelt down and pleaded. "I didn''t wreak havoc. It was the lesser demons under me that entered the mountains and ate the peasants. I''m willing to offer all my treasures and be your slave. Sword Immortal Qin, please spare me."


    "Quickly leave and take your lesser demons with you," said Qin Yun. "Also, you are not to harm mortals in the future."


    "Yes, yes," replied Lightning Wolf Demon King immediately. "I will definitely watch my underlings."


    Soon.


    Lightning Wolf Demon King rode a black cloud and rapidly left with his lesser demons. While leaving, he even bowed reverently towards Qin Yun. Many lesser demons on the black cloud were even kowtowing towards him.


    "Your Majesty, this Sword Immortal Qin is actually so amenable?"


    "He didn''t attack?"


    "I was afraid that if he took action, he would wipe us all out with one strike."


    The lesser demons were still feeling a lingering fear, but they also felt lucky.


    "That''s why I said, all of you are to be more careful! Don''t commit heinous sins," said Lightning Wolf Demon King.


    "Your Majesty, then where shall we head to now?"


    "To Mt. Fox." Lightning Wolf Demon King immediately decided on his new residence.


    The Heavenly realm was as such. Great places were occupied by powerhouses. If Qin Yun had chosen a top wonderland, he would probably ignite a war. It was naturally much easier to occupy Crescent Bay''s Mt. Lightning Wolf.


    ¡­


    "Go."


    Qin Yun threw out the miniature cave abode which expanded with the wind before landing on Mt. Lightning Wolf.


    "Arise." Buildings formed under Qin Yun''s Dharmic powers. With the cave abode as its center, an entire manor came into existence. Signs of life also seemed to be added. Many places resembled Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Boom!" With a wave of his hand, Qin Yiyi tore open a spatial passageway with a sword flash. It connected to the distant Effulgent Great World. Yi Xiao, Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, and company flew through the spatial passageway. As for his father Qin Liehu and his brother Qin An, they were accustomed to life in the Great Chang world. They temporarily stayed put.


    "Crescent Bay, Mt. Lightning Wolf?" Yi Xiao and company were filled with anticipation when they flew in. All they had seen previously were images, while this was the first time they were setting foot into the Heavenly realm.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "From today forth, this is our new home."

 586 Goddess Houtu

    Chapter 586: Goddess Houtu


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    After a discussion with Yi Xiao, Mt. Lightning Wolf''s name was restored to its original¡ªMt. Lightning Roar. This was the most ancient name. Mt. Lightning Wolf was the name Lightning Wolf Demon King gave it after he occupied it.


    Yi Xiao, Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, and company naturally began to passionately begin constructing and perfecting the new Qin Manor!


    As for Qin Yun, he was setting up the array formations. On the one hand, he had to guide the lightning towards the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree, and on the other hand, he had to ensure that Qin Manor was safe. Setting up array formations in the Heavenly realm was much easier. As array formations in Small Worlds could only be powered by Skyimmortal Dharmic powers, it was naturally very difficult to withstand someone like Star Destruction.


    But in the Heavenly realm? Not only could Golden Immortal Dharmic powers be used, even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor could appear there with their true bodies.


    Therefore, the array formations were naturally much more potent. Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was good for array formations, and he spared no expense, so once he set them all up, ordinary pinnacle Golden Immortals had no means of breaking through his defenses.


    "That''s enough."


    Qin Yun stood in midair as he looked at the cave abode in front of him.


    He saw lightning constantly striking down from the sky, forming a lightning column that reached the new Qin Manor''s backyard. The Connate Lightning Fruit Tree stood there with its thick trunk and luxuriant leaves. Small fruits could be seen amid the leaves and they were covered in blinding bolts of lightning while effusing the auras of Chaos Lightning. Such a Connate Spirit Root was enough to make many immortals and Buddhas covet it, but of course, with Qin Yun''s current strength, he was fully capable of owning such a Connate Spirit Root. As for the Lightning Beast Bai Xiao, he had to plant it inside a Small World.


    Qin Manor also appeared indistinct amid the array formations, as though a mist enveloped it.


    Mt. Lightning Roar was thirty thousand feet tall, and although it was still spring at the foot of the mountain, it was often covered in snow at its peak.


    "Brother Yun, this will be our home in the future." Yi Xiao looked at it very happily. After several days of perfection, Qin Manor turned more lively.


    "The Heavenly realm has many wonderlands and opportunities. It''s also suitable for Yiyi and Huan''er." Qin Yun nodded. "Setting up a manor is ultimately something important. Tomorrow, I will invite several good friends. Xiaoxiao, you will have to take care of some of the preparations."


    "Oh? Who will come?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Mainly friends I''m familiar with, fellow disciples of my Green Touring Palace," said Qin Yun. "There''s no need to make it a big hooha."


    He was an Itinerant Immortal.


    Perhaps, he might truly be pulverized roughly ten thousand from now. Why make a big hooha about it?


    ¡­


    That day, Qin Yun went to Green Touring Palace to meet his master.


    At Green Touring Palace, ordinary disciples had no right to meet their master as they wished. Many disciples would only meet their master once in their lives. Even if they attained a Golden Immortal Dao fruit, the number of times they could meet him was limited. Only the most beloved disciples of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor could easily meet him¡­ Clearly, Qin Yun was one of them.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed.


    "You have moved to the Heavenly realm?" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sat cross-legged on a bed of clouds as he waved his hand with a smile, throwing out a green columnar stone. "This is a Holding Down Stone which I refined simply. It can hold down a manor and also gather Heaven and Earth spiritual energies."


    "Thank you, Master." Qin Yun happily received it. With the stone, his manor''s array formation''s powers would be raised by fifty percent. It was a treasure that could hardly be bought.


    "Go ahead, why did you come to me?" Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at his disciple smilingly. It was only when Qin Yun wasted two centuries seeking out the source of his homeworld''s calamity that the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was frustrated with him. Usually, he was still very fond of Qin Yun. Among the Three Pure Ones¡­ only the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was most responsible and acted as he wished.


    He recruited disciples as he wished. As for giving his disciples treasures? The fondness he had for his eldest disciple went as far as allowing his eldest disciple to use the Immortal Vanquishing Array.


    He also lent his Qingping Sword to Qin Yun as he wished.


    The other Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor, as well as Goddess N¨¹wa, would not have done something like that.


    "My cultivation requires Samsara Dew," said Qin Yun reverently. "If it''s just small quantities of Samsara Dew, I would be able to purchase them. But for ten thousand years of cultivation, the amount of Samsara Dew needed for continual use is just too much¡­ I''m afraid I won''t be able to buy such a quantity, so I have thickened my skin to seek your help, Master."


    With that said, Qin Yun took out a yellow-skinned calabash. "Inside this is a Connate Wonder, the Stellar Stone. It can be used to purchase Samsara Dew."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure took a glance and said in surprise, "You have that big a Stellar Stone?"


    After he saw that, he did a simple inference.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun. "So this Stellar Stone was the source of your Great Chang world''s calamity?"


    "Yes," said Qin Yun with a nod. "Patriarch Bojia sent numerous fiends to occupy the Great Chang world for this Stellar Stone. Inside the calabash is about half of my homeworld''s Stellar Stone."


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure laughed. "Samsara Dew comes from Samsara. It''s extremely rare, rarer than most anything. By using so much of a Stellar Stone to exchange for it, are you planning to wipe out all of the Samsara Dew in the Three Realms?"


    "It wouldn''t be to such an extent, right?" said Qin Yun ashamed.


    "No, but it will be most of it." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded slightly. "With your stature, it''s unlikely you can buy that much. Alright, I will help you."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    He was an Itinerant Immortal. In terms of stature, many pinnacle Golden Immortals would respect him.


    But in terms of lacking stature¡­ the perfected Great Dao existences would think little of a junior like him! And the two figures that had the most amount of Samsara Dew in the Three Realms were perfected Great Dao existences. Ranked first was Goddess Houtu who helmed all mountains and rivers. Second was the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation. Qin Yun himself could buy up to a thousand years worth of Samsara Dew by himself by seeking out about ten mighty figures.


    But to get enough for ten thousand years? That was too difficult.


    Moments later¡ª


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure held the yellow-skinned calabash and gently threw it out as it tunneled to another spot in the void.


    "Whoosh." The void rippled, as the indiscernible figure of a beautiful woman smiled. Similarly, she threw out a jade bottle.


    "Goddess Houtu." Qin Yun immediately bowed to express his gratitude.


    "Keep it well." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure said as he waved his hand, sending the jade bottle towards Qin Yun. After Qin Yun caught it and sensed it, he was delighted. Such an amount of Samsara Dew was sufficient!


    "Houtu is easier to negotiate with, but you have to remember this favor. After all, she has personally produced all the Samsara Dew she has," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "Yes," said Qin Yun eagerly.


    Although the amount of Stellar Stone he had given was sufficient in amount, the amount of Stellar Stone in the Three Realms was considered quite sizable while Samsara Dew was rare. The reason why Samsara Dew''s price was not relatively high was firstly because demand was low and secondly, with time, Samsara would constantly produce Samsara Dew. However, Qin Yun''s purchase was enough to inflate the prices of Samsara Dew in the Three Realms.


    "Next, although seclusive cultivation is important, you should travel the Three Realms more. Motion and Stillness is what''s orthodox," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "I understand, Master," replied Qin Yun.


    "Furthermore, you have great merit on you, naturally increasing the light providence shines on you," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "Travel more through the Three Realms and under the light, there will be greater chances of encountering some opportunities."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "But if I were to travel through the cosmos, wouldn''t the Fiend Ancestor attack with complete disregard of his status¡­" Qin Yun was slightly worried. The Fiend Ancestor had previously sneaked up on the monkey from Flowers and Fruit Mountain, causing many experts in the Three Realms to click their tongues. In the past, the Fiend Ancestor still cared about his reputation, but that sneak attack showed complete disregard. If Qin Yun had agreed to abandon his destruction of the twenty-six nests, the Fiend Ancestor would likely have pulverized his soul in Samsara ten thousand plus years later!


    "Don''t worry. All you need is to bring the Qingping Sword along with you," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile.


    Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief.


    He had long guessed that his master had left some precautions on the Qingping Sword. If not, a Connate Cardinal treasure was not that easily lent out!


    However, even if there were precautions, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was only able to interfere in the cosmos and Heavenly realm. The Dao Ancestor was unable to interfere in Great Worlds, which was how Senior Brother Zhao had his twenty-four Sea Calming Beads snatched away. This was something Qin Yun had to pay heed to so as to not follow in his footsteps.


    "I understand. Then, I bid you farewell." Qin Yun bowed respectfully.


    "Go on." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded slightly as he watched Qin Yun leave.


    ¡­


    The next day, guests from all over came to the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar to join in Qin Yun''s housewarming celebrations.


    Apart from the three Firmament Fairies, Immortal Sa Xu, Ancestral Master Zhang, and several fellow disciples, Qin Yun also invited Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian. Back when Star Destruction appeared, Yang Jian had appeared to help Qin Yun and company leave. This gratitude was something Qin Yun remembered. Yang Jian actually did turn up. It surprised many guests for they knew Yang Jian was quite a loner.


    Of course, there were many Qin Yun did not invite who came with gifts when they learned of his event.


    All of the Three Realms also knew of it¡­


    Qin Yun had set up a manor in the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar and would be staying there from then on.


    The cave abode array formation spanned fifteen hundred kilometers and enveloped Crescent Bay within. To simply span fifteen hundred kilometers was considered very small for a mighty figure''s cave abode.


    If someone unfated accidentally entered the fifteen hundred kilometers, they would easily be able to leave, but to arrive at Qin Manor''s entrance would not be easy.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yiyi''s and Han Lin''s marriage, Qin Yiyi began his seclusive cultivation on Mt. Lightning Roar.


    The process of snow gathering and melting on the peak of Mt. Lightning Roar repeated as the years passed.


    After four centuries passed, the first Itinerant Immortal Heavenly Tribulation descended upon Qin Yun. It was only a Wind Tribulation made of formless wind. It silently attempted to infiltrate his body, but with the existence of his Sword Dao domain, the invisible wind was easily destroyed. As such, the first Itinerant Immortal Heavenly Tribulation passed by without causing so much as a stir.


    Unknowingly, Qin Yun cultivated more than a thousand years on Mt. Lightning Roar.

 587 Enlightenmen

    Chapter 587: Enlightenment


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "I have cultivated for a thousand years ever since I came to Mt. Lightning Roar." Qin Yun stood on the mountaintop as he looked far into the vast lands. However, his brows were slightly knitted.


    "The Great Dao of Heaven reached a bottleneck back during my seclusion in the Immortal Vanquishing Hall. It''s just a sliver short of a Great Dao! Now that a thousand years has passed, I''m still short of that sliver." Qin Yun was a little frustrated. "The Great Dao of Earth is also taking up shape. I''ve been able to figure out a few moves at the Golden Immortal level. Just like the Great Dao of Heaven, it''s just a sliver short of a Great Dao. The Great Dao of Man¡­ needs more work."


    "How should I get through the bottlenecks that plague these two Great Dao?"


    Qin Yun pondered.


    He was indeed feeling pressed for time. His Sword Dao was split into Heaven, Earth, and Man. Figuring them out independently was the most suitable course. This was also why the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure held high hopes for him.


    Regardless if it was the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array or the Qingping Sword, both of them deepened his understanding of the Heaven and Earth. Therefore, his insights into the two Great Dao clearly progressed faster than the Great Dao of Man.


    But after reaching a bottleneck¡­


    It came to a halt!


    "Perhaps, I should travel." Qin Yun looked at the bustling life across the distant land. After remaining sedentary for so long, he decided to leave the mountain.


    His real body immediately took a step and tore through space, leaving behind an avatar.


    ¡­


    The Heavenly realm was core to the Three Realms. It was almost infinitely vast and extremely mystical.


    Qin Yun had never gotten the opportunity to fully travel the Heavenly realm.


    "Boom!"


    The Silver River roared as its waves stirred. Even immortals would find them a challenge.


    Qin Yun stood on a patch of wild grass by the riverside as he took in the view.


    "Legend has it that Queen Mother used a jade hairpin to tear open this Silver River? It''s truly majestic." Qin Yun looked with interest at the extremely famous spot. "The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl were also separated by this Silver River."


    "Queen Mother is the leader of all fairies. She could have easily crushed a mortal like Cowherd to death, but she felt pity towards Cowherd and Weaver Girl; therefore only separating them with only a Silver River, allowing them to still meet on a magpie bridge," Qin Yun mused. Queen Mother was also born out of the Chaos. She was born with great divine powers and back when the ancient demon Heavenly Courts was still in power, Queen Mother was also conferred the titles Golden Mother of the Nacre Lake, Golden Mother the First Ruler, and Queen Mother of the West. Even the Mighty God Houyi sought an immortal pill for his wife from her.


    Whoosh. Several fairies flew by the riverside as they began plucking immortal grasses.


    "Where are you from? How dare you trespass the Silver River?" When the leader of the fairies saw Qin Yun, she immediately shouted loudly. Simultaneously, she instructed a fairy beside her, "Quickly inform the Silver River navy. Get them to send people to capture this audacious immortal."


    "You can forget about running."


    "If you attempt escape, you will suffer additional charges."


    These fairies berated.


    The Heavenly Courts had strict rules. It was true that the Silver River was of great importance. Queen Mother had paid a huge price to produce many treasures in the Silver River''s riverbed. The Silver River was a treasure trove that continuously provided treasures to the Heavenly Courts. Stories of this tempted immortals to secretly dive down in the Silver River to steal treasures. Therefore, the Heavenly Courts naturally forbade ordinary immortals from the lower realms to come to the Silver River.


    Once the heavenly rules were set, these fairies had to enforce them. How could they dare allow Qin Yun to flee? They would have committed a serious crime if they flouted the heavenly rules.


    "Get the Silver River navy to capture me?" Qin Yun smiled. He did not say much to the fairies as he turned around. With one step, he vanished.


    "How dare you challenge the heavenly rules. You won''t escape," shouted a fairy.


    Soon.


    A Silver River navy troop arrived.


    "Who dares trespass the Silver River?" The general leading the Silver River navy asked.


    "It''s him." A fairy waved her hand as a figure appeared in the void. It was none other than Qin Yun.


    The general was not like these ordinary fairies. He had the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal, so he had current information on top immortals. He immediately recognized Qin Yun.


    "Isn''t this Sword Immortal Qin?" The general was appalled.


    "Sword Immortal Qin? The Sword Immortal Qin who went into the fiendish dominion to kill an Ancestral Fiend?" These fairies were alarmed as well.


    "The Sword Immortal Qin who holds the Connate Cardinal treasure, the Qingping Sword?"


    None of them dared continued their rout. Mighty figures had extraordinary statuses. Even the Heavenly Courts would try to win their favor. Although there were places that ordinary immortals were forbidden from entering, mighty figures could go anywhere they wanted! Qin Yun held an extraordinary position. He had the Dao Ancestor, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, backing him. It was a formidable backer, for even the Heavenly Courts required the Dao Ancestors to support them in their rule over the Three Realms. It was even the case that many of the generals of the Heavenly Courts were Daoist disciples.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun visited various spots in the Heavenly realm, places he had heard of before, but had never visited.


    As he took in more of the sights, Qin Yun faintly felt that he had a solution to breaking through the bottleneck of his Great Dao of Heaven. This feeling was as intangible it could be, but Qin Yun knew the general direction.


    ¡­


    A boat was floating across a river.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on the boat as he allowed the river to bring him wherever it went. He drifted the entire way.


    He saw the old men by the river constructing boats while fishermen caught fish on their boats. There were also powerful pirates.


    When the pirates encountered a merchant ship, they were tempted by their lust as they attempted to snatch the beauties and treasures on board by engaging in a mindless slaughter.


    "Lust and danger are just two sides of the same coin." Qin Yun waved his hand as water splashed up, sending water droplets over.


    "Senior, spare us." The pirate captain shouted loudly. At the same time, he released fish-scaled like Dharma treasures that floated around them. However, the water droplets seemed incorporeal as they tore straight through the treasures and into the pirate captain''s glabella. The captain died on the spot with widened eyes as his crew trembled in fear. After all, their captain had reached the Essence Soul realm while the crew''s elites were at the Connate realm. The most bloodthirsty ones had the water droplets pierce through their dantian, crippling them of their Dharmic powers.


    As for the weaker ones? Qin Yun ignored them.


    Without the leaders, the merchant ship was able to withstand the pirate attacks since it had a few Connate Golden Cores defending it. In the Heavenly realm¡­ Connate Golden Cores were very common.


    "Thank you for saving our lives, Senior. Might we invite you onto our ship?" The merchant ship''s owner immediately brought his three daughters in excitement as he shouted loudly. He knew that he had encountered an immortal.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on that bow of the tiny boat. Although it seemed to drift slowly, it quickly vanished from their sight.


    "We encountered an immortal. Unfortunately, we didn''t manage to invite him onto the ship." The ship''s owner felt somewhat regretful.


    "Dad, that immortal looked very young," said one of his daughters with brightened eyes.


    ¡­


    "Even if I die, I will kill you all!" A youth wielded a chipped sword. Not only was it chipped, but it was also rusted. However, the sword beams he produced were sharp and resilient. At that moment, the youth was fervently engaged in battle with a group of cultivators. Although he was only at the Connate Golden Core level and a number of the cultivators had reached the Essence Soul realm, he had managed to kill three of his enemies.


    However, the youth was also heavily injured. The worst injury was the gaping hole in his chest that went straight through his heart. Even though his vitality was strong, he could not last much longer.


    "Thankfully, we attacked early. If we had let this rascal continue cultivating, we, the Eighteen Bandits of Black Wind Valley, would not be his match." The cultivators heaved a secret sigh of relief.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The youth felt like blacking out, but the rage and anger in him allowed him to persist on.


    Suddenly¡ª


    Rainwater splashed down.


    The cultivators in an array formation collapsed to the ground in silence.


    The youth stopped in a daze. As the rainwater hit his wounds, his wounds rapidly healed. Even the wound at his heart was healed. Soon, he was in perfect condition.


    "Ding Ding Ding Dang~"


    The sound of a bell accompanied the wind.


    The youth turned his head and saw a furry donkey with a bell over its neck walk over slowly. Seated on the donkey was a gray-robed man who slung a wrapped sword on his back.


    The youth immediately understood what had happened as he knelt down. "Thank you for saving my life, Senior. I, Yuan Chong, wish to thank you for helping me attain my revenge."


    "Despite the huge vendetta, you have managed to keep a good bit of merit on you. Hate did not completely destroy your conscience. Unfortunately, your sword arts are relatively weak. Watch well." The gray-robed man waved his hand as the rain water formed a figure which demonstrated a sword art.


    "Isn''t this my Illusion Killing Sword Art? No, no. Every move has been changed." The youth''s eyes watched with fervent, burning eyes. A brand new Sword Dao developed in front of him.


    After the figure dissipated, it transformed into a stream of light that shot into the youth''s glabella, as he continued being immersed in the insights of the Sword Dao.


    He awoke much later.


    The gray-robed senior had already long left.


    "Senior, I, Yuan Chong, will remember your teaching of the Dao to me forever." The youth knelt down and kowtowed thrice.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun traveled everywhere as he tried to gain inspiration.


    He traveled arduously only with his pair of legs.


    He sat on a tiny boat on a river.


    He traveled five thousand kilometers on a tiny furry donkey.


    He sat on avian creatures and traversed the skies¡­


    With his character of abhorring evil, he would naturally offer help and had even passed Dao teachings to three juniors.


    The more he saw, the more he experienced. Qin Yun felt that the bottleneck of the Great Dao of Heaven was slowly being dissolved.


    Finally!


    Qin Yun traveled over land and water, and when he came to the summit of a nameless mountain, he naturally sat cross-legged at the mountaintop.


    This was the first time he really stopped after traveling the world for a hundred plus years.


    He sat cross-legged and allowed the elements to bear down on him. Soon, the dust that fell on him turned him into a dirty gray statue. He sat there for nine months.

 588 Great Dao of Heaven

    Chapter 588: Great Dao of Heaven


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    "Brothers, let us part ways here." A silver-armored general rode a cloud with a woman in a red bridal gown as he spoke to the other Heavenly troops beside him.


    "Brother!"


    "We will live and die together."


    "We are no cowards that fear for our lives."


    The Heavenly troops were burning with anxiety. Even if a few of their eyes twinkled, they did not object verbally.


    The silver-armored general roared with laughter. "For me, Bai Fu, to have a bunch of brothers like you is my good luck. However, saving this tiny nation''s princess was my call. Besides, if we separate¡­ I can fly much faster alone! Also, when you return to the Heavenly Courts, try to think of means to gather reinforcements."


    "A day in heaven is a year in the mortal world. It would be too late by the time reinforcements arrive."


    "Brother¡­" None of these Heavenly troops wished to abandon their elder brother-in-arms.


    They shared deep camaraderie after spending years together.


    "Alright. That is my order. All of you are to split up and escape. I believe that Demon King is only targeting me. He will not chase all of you."


    With that said, the silver-armored general left with the bridal-gowned woman, breaking away from the military formation. He also flew much faster.


    The Heavenly troops dropped in speed without the military formation. All of them exchanged looks.


    "With the Heavenly troops formation''s power, Brother could still exchange a few blows with the Demon King. Now in order to let us live, he has abandoned the military formation?"


    "Forget it. Without Brother presiding over the military formation, our speed is far inferior to his. We won''t be able to catch up to him. It''s best we scatter and return to the Heavenly Courts to seek reinforcements."


    "Let''s go. Let''s call for reinforcements."


    These Heavenly troops separately immediately as they fled at full speed.


    Five thousand kilometers of the surrounding void was sealed, preventing escape via Void Transference.


    Soon, a black flame chased up from behind.


    "Hahaha¡­ That lesser general from the Heavenly Courts sure upholds the code of brotherhood. He separated from his subordinates." Inside the black flame was a wolf demon. He looked fiercely at the separating Heavenly troops, but did not pursue them. Instead, he focused on the silver-armored general and chased after him.


    The pursuit continued.


    The Demon King had sealed the area and he flew quickly. As for the Heavenly Courts general, his speed was only slightly slower. Whenever he was about to be caught, he would immediately use some life-preservation item to try his best to widen the gap.


    "General, you don''t have to bother over me." The woman in a red bridal gown said with tears welling in her eyes. "I can''t let you come to harm for my sake."


    "There''s no need to say any more. I''m definitely involving myself in this!" the general said decisively.


    Many years ago¡­


    Before he was recruited by the Heavenly Courts to become a member of the Heavenly troops, he was a general of a nation in a Small World. In order to deal with the demon horde, he could only bid farewell to the wife he recently wedded. That farewell turned into eternity¡­ He gave up his life to suppress the demon horde for his Small World, but as a result, gained immense merit. He did not end up reincarnating in the netherworld, but ended up being recruited into the Heavenly Courts as a Heavenly soldier.


    But that also meant eternal separation from his wife! Even though he was now the lowest ranking ninth-grade Heavenly general, he could not freely enter the lower realm to seek out his wife in a Small World.


    This woman in a red bridal gown reminded him of his former wife.


    "Haha, you won''t escape!" The wolf demon rapidly closed in.


    ¡­


    There was a gray humanoid statue on the summit of a nameless mountain. Gradually, the surface of the statue flaked off, revealing fair and lustrous skin, as well as a pair of eyes.


    The eyes slowly opened.


    "Only by watching the world beneath the heavens can you know how huge the world is," said Qin Yun lightly with a smile.


    He had accumulated a lot of insights into the Great Dao of Heaven and could probably break through after a few thousand years of arduous cultivation. What he lacked was a chance. Of course, motion and stillness was an orthodox path. On his journeys, he viewed the world from different vantage points¡ªthat of an immortal''s, an avian beast''s, a mortal''s¡­


    He naturally found and grasped that sliver of a chance.


    After sitting cross-legged in meditation for nine months, everything came naturally.


    He had finally attained the Great Dao of Heaven!


    This Great Dao of Heaven was also a pinnacle Great Dao! Just this alone gave him the strength of a pinnacle Golden Immortal.


    As for Qin Yun''s Sword Dao, it was also a pinnacle Great Dao, which contained the three Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man¡­ Now that he had naturally fused it with the Great Dao of Heaven, Qin Yun''s realm improved drastically once more!


    "After fusing the Great Dao of Heaven into my Sword Dao, my Sword Dao has turned more potent," thought Qin Yun. "With this, my Misty Rain Array will become even stronger. If I gain further insights into the Qingping Sword, I believe I can produce even more potent might."


    The higher his realm was, the more he could draw upon the strength of the Qingping Sword.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun stood up as the dust layer over him dissipated. He emerged clean and untainted.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked into the distance.


    There was a huge battle happening not far from him.


    A silver-armored Heavenly general was embroiled in a battle with a Demon King. To be precise, the Heavenly general was completely repressed by the Demon King. It was unlikely he could last long.


    "Merit Glow?" Qin Yun could tell at a glance that there was Merit Glow on the Heavenly general''s body. As for his opponent, the Demon King''s body was covered in thick sinful black auras that suffused a sanguine glow.


    ¡­


    "Hahaha, to think a lesser Heavenly general like you isn''t afraid of death. And yet she''s still mine, and you will still die. And it will be a pointless death!" Bathed in black flames, the wolf demon acted willfully. He slammed his pole at the Heavenly general, inflicting him with serious injuries. The Heavenly general was only barely holding on, but it was unlikely he could do so much longer.


    "Pfft." A mouthful of blood spewed out while his body was already covered in blood.


    Far away in midair, the woman who had been bound there was crying her eyes out. The nation she came from had been subjugated by the Demon King and she was about to be taken by him. She was already lost in despair as she awaited her death. Instead, this Heavenly general appeared and tried his best to save her.


    "Let him go. I''m willing to obey you," shouted the woman. "If not, I''d rather die."


    "You won''t die¡­ Only after we engage in matrimonial bliss will I eat you. Don''t worry, my wife," said the wolf demon with a laugh. "As for now, it''s best you shut up, my wife."


    The woman opened her mouth to say something, but no words came out of it.


    Pew!


    The pole struck open the protective Dharma spell on the Heavenly general''s body as blood spilled once again.


    "Demon King, I can tolerate it if you force a marriage, but to eat every one of them after marriage? What does this mean? You have married twenty-two wives one after another and have eaten all twenty-two of them. Today, I will definitely stop you. And if you kill me¡­ the Heavenly Courts will definitely not let the matter rest," said the general through gritted teeth.


    "So what? All I did was eat a few dozen people to satisfy my cravings. As for a lowly Heavenly general like you, there are countless of them in the Heavenly Courts. What will the Heavenly Courts do to me if I kill you? My Uncle-Master ate a hundred thousand Heavenly troops in one go, but didn''t the Heavenly Courts have to tolerate that as well?" laughed the wolf demon.


    The general turned more anxious.


    "You are quite resistant having cultivated your body. To last this long, you must be about at your limit." The wolf demon smashed his pole at the general''s head with a sinister look.


    The general also felt his lifeblood weakened. As he watched the pole smash down, he knew that there was no way he could fend it off.


    "Day after day, year after year¡­ All I could do was monitor the Three Realms in North Star Palace to watch my wife in the Small World, never to meet her. Perhaps with death, I might still have a chance to meet her again after reincarnating." The general closed his eyes.


    "Oh?"


    The general was taken aback. Why hadn''t the pole hit him?


    He opened his eyes, perplexed. The wolf demon that had raised his pole had carefully put away his pole as he smiled fawningly in a particular direction.


    Only then did the general realize that a youth with a dark green sword on his back had appeared beside him. His gaze was converged, but when he swept it over, it made the general''s heart palpitate in fear.


    "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin," said the wolf demon obsequiously.


    "It''s Sword Immortal Qin." The general was alarmed.


    He also recognized him.


    This was now the best Itinerant Immortal, Sword Immortal Qin. He was well-known throughout the Three Realms, a ruthless character who dared to infiltrate the fiendish dominion to kill a Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend! With the Qingping Sword on his back¡­ everyone knew how highly Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure thought of him. Even the Heavenly Courts feared him. Such a ruthless character had a bigger background than the Sagedemon who had devoured a hundred thousand Heavenly troops! He was also much stronger!


    "To marry twenty-two wives one after another and eat all twenty-two of them?" Qin Yun looked at the wolf demon.


    The wolf demon immediately said, "I was unable to change my habits. Ever since I was recruited under Old Master Yang Cong, I have been working hard to change this habit of mine. I have also stopped my wanton killings. I have even begun to accumulate merit! Now, my sins will soon reduce to the level of a Sinful Sanguine Halo. I have killed fewer than a hundred lives ever since I secretly left the sect.


    "I know I was in the wrong this time. I will immediately return to the sect," said the wolf demon hurriedly.


    "Jade Void Palace''s Yang Cong?" Qin Yun nodded slightly. "To think you are a disciple of a mighty figure. It''s no wonder you have the guts to kill a Heavenly general of the Heavenly Courts."


    "I didn''t kill him. I was only trying to scare him," said the wolf demon with a smile immediately. "It was just to give him a fright."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    A wisp of Sword Qi shot out and tore through the wolf demon''s glabella. He widened his eyes in disbelief that Qin Yun would actually kill him. He had a mighty figure from the Jade Void Palace backing him!


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Bai Fu was alarmed.


    "It''s nothing," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It''s just me squishing a stinking worm to death."

 589 Tolerance

    Chapter 589: Tolerance


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    While Qin Yun casually killed the wolf demon, a man in a regal gown was leisurely fishing by a lake in the Heavenly realm. Beside him, a child was waiting upon him.


    "Oh? That vile beast has been killed?" The man pricked up his brows as he looked far into the distance. Through the void, he saw an ordinary Heavenly general and Qin Yun who carried the Qingping Sword on his back. When Qin Yun sensed that he was being spied upon, he turned his head to look back. It left the man''s heart palpitating. "As expected of the best Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms. He could sense my secret spying."


    "That good-for-nothing really knows how to stir up trouble. I could have ignored his provocation of the Heavenly Courts since the Heavenly Courts needs to take my Jade Void Palace in consideration, but he ended up provoking Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun!" The man frowned slightly.


    He lowered his fishing rod and stood up.


    "Child, return to the cave abode first," instructed the man.


    "Yes, Master," answered the child.


    The man immediately took a step and departed.


    ¡­


    "To me, a mere wolf demon is nothing but a stinky worm. However, he ultimately had the strength of a half-step Sagedemon. As a lowly Heavenly general, especially one at the ordinary ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, you were simply courting death by fighting him one on one even though you cultivate your body," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Saving someone is good, but if you can''t tell the difference in strength, it''s simply courting death. Not only would you fail to save the person, you might even be sending yourself to your death. That would be somewhat silly."


    Qin Yun still had a good impression of the Heavenly general.


    A person who could ignore death to save a complete stranger was worthy of respect.


    "Senior Qin, I''m not a rash person. I was planning on secretly saving her without alerting the wolf demon," said the silver-armored general, Bai Fu, immediately. "I never expected the wolf demon to be so cunning as to leave a mark on the woman. So the moment I took her on an escape of the wolf demon''s lair, the wolf demon immediately learned of it."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The woman in the red bridal gown flew over. "Thank you for saving my life, General. Thank you for saving my life, Senior."


    "Are you still returning?" inquired Bai Fu.


    "Returning?" The woman smiled bitterly. "They were willing to obediently hand me over to the Demon King when faced with him. How can I return now? It''s best I find a tranquil spot and cultivate in peace. Although I''m weak and was unable to resist the Demon King, I''ve cultivated to the first firmament Essence Soul realm. I won''t die from hunger and thirst at the very least."


    "I know of a fairy. I can send you to her Daoist temple for cultivation. Are you okay with that?" asked Bai Fu.


    "I''ll leave it all to you, General," replied the woman obediently. The way she looked at Bai Fu took on a queer luster.


    The fact that this Heavenly general had risked his life to save her when she was abandoned by everyone had no doubt stirred her heart.


    Qin Yun shook his head slightly when he saw this.


    With his attainments in karma, he could easily infer that the woman was destined to have one-sided feelings. Bai Fu already had marriage karma binding him, and it was a very deep tie.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun frowned slightly as he began inferring with his fingers. "This Heavenly general''s marriage is in a Small World. And the bondage goes rather deep. It seems it will result in great trouble? It will likely be a life-and-death calamity for this Bai Fu. However, there is a sliver of hope in this calamity. For me to meet him today, it''s likely where that sliver of hope belies."


    Qin Yun understood this point.


    The future had yet to happen. Inferring the future only led to hazy outlook.


    If it were a mortal with a lifespan of about a hundred years, Qin Yun could naturally perceive everything at a glance.


    For a Skyimmortal, although his strength was much weaker than Qin Yun''s, Qin Yun''s Seven Stars Art could only barely infer that the Heavenly general would meet with a calamity! It was a calamity that would result from marriage karma. As for what the calamity was? Or what kind of encounters he would have? That was not inferable.


    "Senior Qin, I will be taking her away, so I bid you farewell," said Bai Fu respectfully. The woman was also very reverent. She knew that her homeworld''s nation had to bow its head against a Demon King and that this general from the Heavenly Courts was not the Demon King''s match; yet, the Demon King had been easily killed by this mysterious person. Clearly, he was someone of great importance.


    "Keep this well." Qin Yun flipped his hand and produced a tiny wooden sword and casually threw it out, sending it in front of Bai Fu.


    Bai Fu received it in a daze, but he could sense that the tiny wooden sword contained a terrifying force.


    "When the day comes that you encounter a life-and-death calamity, smash it to bits," said Qin Yun.


    "Thank you, Senior Qin." Bai Fu bowed deeply in gratitude.


    "Alright, you may leave," urged Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    Bai Fu could only bury the gratitude in his heart as he left with the woman on a cloud.


    Qin Yun watched the duo leave before turning his head to look at a spot nearby. He smiled and said, "Fellow Daoist Yang, you may come out now."


    "Hahaha, I knew I couldn''t hide from you, Dao Brother Qin." A man in a regal gown walked out of the void. He was none other than Jade Void Palace''s Yang Cong.


    "Greetings, Dao Brother Qin, I''m Yang Cong." Yang Cong bowed. Although he was a mighty figure, he was only an ordinary Golden Immortal! Compared to a pinnacle Golden Immortal like Qin Yun, the disparity in strength was huge, notwithstanding the fact that Qin Yun wielded the Qingping Sword! As Qin Yun''s realm increased, he could deliver more of the Qingping Sword''s strength. With it, he could even exchange a few blows with perfected Great Dao existences.


    So how could Yang Cong compare?


    "Fellow Daoist Yang, do you blame me for killing that wolf demon under you?" asked Qin Yun.


    "No, no, no," said Yang Cong immediately and earnestly. "Dao Brother Qin, to be honest, I don''t care one bit that you killed that vile beast. I even applaud you for killing him. I have wanted to kill him numerous times, but apprehension stopped me every time. All I could do was tolerate him."


    "Apprehension?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "Dao Brother Qin, you have not cultivated for long, so you are probably unaware," said Yang Cong. "But you should know that when we separate mighty figures in the Three Realms based on race, which race has the most?"


    "Naturally the humans," said Qin Yun.


    "Which race ranks second then?" asked Yang Cong.


    Qin Yun thought for a moment, "The demons."


    "Yes, the demons," said Yang Cong. "During the ancient Heavenly Courts, the demons were the biggest race in the Three Realms. Even now, they are only second to humans. The number of demons is sizable. You have to know that even the ancient Heavenly Courts only ruled over a number of demons. There were some extremely powerful demons who remained defiant as they continued ruling over an area. When the ancient Heavenly Courts was destroyed¡­ both sides were unable to relentlessly attack one another. The humans had to placate the demons. After all, if they were not spared, an outright bloodbath would only cause both sides to suffer unacceptable losses.


    "A number of demons submitted, but there are still many demons that remain free. They can only abide by the rules and not wantonly wreak havoc," explained Yang Cong. "As long as they are being obedient, we cannot casually kill these demons who have submitted.


    "If you were to continue killing them when they have already submitted, how would the old demons not be enraged?" said Yang Cong. "This becomes even more apparent after the fiend uprising. Demons are demonic and ferocious to begin with. If we continue threatening them, it would serve to make all demons to join the fiends¡­ Our side would then weaken immediately, while the fiends would immediately become much stronger. The Three Realms'' situation would also immediately turn for the worse.


    "Therefore, although the Heavenly Courts has its rules and will capture Demon Kings with heinous sins, they would still be quite forgiving! They often turn a blind eye to minor matters, and even on the Demon Slaying Platform¡­ some leeway will still be given," said Yang Cong.


    Yang Cong looked at Qin Yun. "It''s not that we don''t wish to kill them, it''s that we can''t unless they committed extremely heinous sins. If we use minor clashes as reason to kill, the wolf demon''s master and uncle-master, as well as a bunch of Sagedemons, would definitely not rest on this matter."


    "Of course."


    Yang Cong smiled. "I couldn''t kill him since he was my disciple. The Heavenly Courts has to rule over the Three Realms after all. It has to weigh many considerations, so it can''t wantonly kill. However, Dao Brother Qin, you are independent and an Itinerant Immortal. The old demons wouldn''t dare cross you."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The strongest faction in the Three Realms was actually the bunch of Chaos Godfiends! The Three Pure Ones, the Buddhist Ancestor, Goddess N¨¹wa, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation, Goddess Houtu, Patriarch Blood Sea, Daoist Wen, and all the ancient existences were born out of the Chaos.


    However, that also meant that they were not united! In the earliest days, the Chaos Godfiends fought each other belligerently. Massive numbers died. It even caused Mighty God Gonggong to slam through Mt. Buzhou. It served as testimony to the deranged battles among the Chaos Godfiends. On the one hand, the number of ancient existences that remained were too few. On the other hand, the Chaos Godfiends were very limited in number. No new ones were produced.


    As for the humans and demons, they were constantly procreating, giving birth to countless experts.


    Therefore, humans were the biggest race in the Three Realms, while the demons were second!


    "They feel apprehensive towards me because I''m an Itinerant Immortal who can only live for ten thousand plus years, as well as the fact that I have not established a faction and have acted independently?" Qin Yun gained an understanding.


    "Those old demons wouldn''t say a word about your killing of a half-step Sagedemon," said Yang Cong with a smile. "Even if Dao Brother Qin kills an ordinary Sagedemon, those old demons will only holler at best. My guess is that they will continue tolerating."


    "The unreasonable fears the crazy! I only have ten thousand plus years to live while they are immortal. They naturally wouldn''t fight me easily," said Qin Yun.


    "Dao Brother Qin, you are extremely talented. Perhaps you might be able to transcend the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation and obtain eternal life," said Yang Cong with a smile.


    Qin Yun smiled. "Alright, let''s end this chat. I''ll be returning."


    "Then I won''t disturb you any further," said Yang Cong as he bowed with a smile.


    Qin Yun turned around and took a step as he departed by tearing through the sky.


    Yang Cong stood in midair watching before he heaved a slight sigh of relief.


    His Jade Void Palace had an old grudge with Green Touring Palace. If those ferocious Sagedemons were apprehensive of Qin Yun, then an ordinary Golden Immortal like him was even more afraid! He naturally had to rush here to explain the situation.

 590 Quick Passage Of Time

    Chapter 590: Quick Passage Of Time


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun traversed the void and returned to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Dad." Qin Yiyi immediately came forward while carrying a child.


    "Haha, it took you and Han Lin so many years to have a child because both of you are Skyimmortals. Come, let me carry my dear granddaughter," Qin Yun said smilingly as he took hold of the toddler.


    There were servants from the Qin family a distance away.


    A small number of these servants were puppet Guardians and a small number of them had been in service since the Great Chang world. The rest were people who had some intent to cultivate, and since becoming a servant or subordinate of the Qin Manor was the dream of countless cultivators in the Heavenly realm, many cultivators were recruited over the years in the Heavenly realm. After all, even being a guard of a mighty figure was a huge opportunity.


    "Brother Tiger, you must learn where the best place to reincarnate is. Look, this young mistress of ours was reincarnated into Qin Manor. She was born with massive amounts of rare treasures for her use, and countless cultivation manuals that she can read freely. Furthermore, she has a pinnacle Golden Immortal as a grandfather!" a middle-aged male servant said with a voice transmission. He was a sixth firmament Skyimmortal.


    "Why? Are you envious? If you are that envious, go in front of Master and kneel down and call him Grandfather. Let''s see if Master is willing to accept you as his grandson," replied a demon with a tiger''s head and a human body via voice transmission. This tiger demon was an eighth firmament Skydemon. He was one of the many demons that had come under Qin Yun. Qin Yun did not ostracize demons, they only needed to abide by his rules and they could serve him.


    "If Master is willing to recognize me as a grandson, I''ll immediately kneel down and call him Grandfather."


    The two servants continued via voice transmission.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere.


    The Heavenly general, Bai Fu, had returned to the Heavenly Courts.


    "Brother, you returned!"


    "That''s great, Brother!" A group of Heavenly troops quickly rushed over to receive him in excitement.


    "I was lucky and bumped into a mighty figure who helped. That allowed me to return safely," said Bai Fu with a smile. "Let''s go and have drinks at my place."


    "Let''s drink!"


    The Heavenly troops happily followed Bai Fu home for some drinks.


    Although Bai Fu was the lowest ninth-grade Heavenly general, he was still an immortal official with a grade! It was not easy to earn a grade in the Heavenly Courts since it had countless Heavenly troops and innumerable people who handled the miscellaneous work. They were all without a grade. As for graded immortal officials, they were given independent immortal abodes.


    Several days later.


    In front of the Heavenly Courts'' North Star Palace, several generals were watching over the Three Realms.


    "Brother Bai Fu, you are finally here."


    "I heard you nearly died at the hands of a wolf demon a few days ago?"


    A few generals in charge of standing guard quipped jokingly.


    Bai Fu walked over and smiled. "It''s only been a few days, but it appears everyone in North Star Palace knows about what happened to me."


    "Our North Star Palace is responsible for monitoring the Three Realms. It''s easy to know about what happened to you. Brother Bai Fu, you sure were lucky to meet Sword Immortal Qin. Sword Immortal Qin has the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor backing him, and he can disregard the status of Sagedemons. Although that wolf demon had a backer, Sword Immortal Qin could still kill as he wished. If it were another mighty figure, they might have turned a blind eye to your predicament."


    "Sword Immortal Qin abhors evil. Back when he swept through the twenty-six dominions'' fiendish lairs, the Fiend Ancestor''s female form came to him; yet, Sword Immortal Qin ignored her!"


    The Heavenly generals chatted with passion.


    Bai Fu smiled as he walked over to replace one of the generals.


    The generals who watched over the Three Realms were on a shift, and now, it was Bai Fu''s turn to take over.


    "Whoosh." As Bai Fu chatted with his partners, he opened the third eye at his glabella and began his watch of the Three Realms.


    He very naturally started looking in one direction.


    It was his homeworld.


    It was a Small World, and soon he saw what he was looking for.


    A female general was standing high in a city building, gazing far into the distance.


    "Qing''er." Bai Fu stood in front of North Star Palace wielding a spear. The Heavenly Eye at his glabella was locked onto his wife.


    He had died in combat years ago and because of the huge merit he accrued, he did not go to the netherworld. He was directly recruited into the Heavenly Courts as a Heavenly soldier. During his days as a Heavenly soldier, he missed his wife more than anything. Therefore, when he learned that North Star Palace were able to monitor the Three Realms, he cultivated with all he had! He cultivated a Heavenly Eye divine power and employed various means to befriend people. Finally, he was transferred to North Star Palace.


    With the increase of his strength, and his numerous skirmishes with fiendish demons, he was finally given the rank of a ninth-grade Heavenly general. He could then borrow the North Star Palace''s powers to monitor the Three Realms.


    If not for the North Star Palace''s powers, how could these Heavenly generals who were not mighty figures be able to monitor the Three Realms?


    The first time he looked down from North Star Palace and saw his wife, he could not help but cry when he saw his wife in a daze while carrying the jade hairpin he gave her.


    "Qing''er, it has been six thousand years; yet, I remain in your heart." Bai Fu looked down. The city building was where he previously perished in combat.


    Every time he was stationed at North Star Palace, he would silently watch over his wife, and that was also his most blissful period in the Heavenly Courts.


    ¡­


    Time quickly passed as cultivation knew not the passage of time. In a blink of an eye, Qin Yun had already been an Itinerant Immortal for nearly three thousand years.


    Green Touring Palace, Immortal Vanquishing Hall.


    "I''ve been an Itinerant Immortal for nearly three thousand years. However, I have yet to make any breakthroughs in my Great Dao of Earth and Great Dao of Man." Seated above the massive Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array, Qin Yun opened his eyes and felt a little despondent. "Over these past years, I have frequently traveled the Three Realms. Master said that I have huge merit and immense light that shines from providence, so it''s possible for me to encounter huge opportunities by traveling more often. But to date, I have yet to encounter any."


    "As such, I have not found a chance to break through my Great Dao of Earth and Great Dao of Man," pondered Qin Yun.


    "There''s nothing I can do. All I can do is take it slow.


    "I have to accumulate more insights before I seek out opportunities outside." Qin Yun stood up. "My third Itinerant Immortal tribulation is coming soon. It''s time to return."


    Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar Qin Manor and prepared to face the third Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    Of course, only the eleventh and twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulations posed any threat to him. As for the early Itinerant Immortal tribulations? They were nothing worth mentioning.


    ******


    Heavenly Courts.


    "Brother Bai Fu, you returned?"


    "I heard you captured a Skyfiend that was ridden with heinous sins."


    "Brother Bai Fu, you sure work hard."


    Bai Fu was having a simple chat with his old friends. He also laughed very happily. "Haha, with me leading the Heavenly troops, that Skyfiend naturally couldn''t escape. Let''s go, I just received my reward. Let''s have drinks at my place."


    After calling a bunch of his good friends, he began drinking at his immortal abode in celebration.


    Soon, his friends left, leaving him alone in his immortal abode. After all, he was a mere ninth-grade. He did not have any servants.


    "Whoosh." Bai Fu waved his hand and produced a pile of treasures.


    They were the treasures obtained from searching the Skyfiend''s body. Heavenly troops and Heavenly general were allowed to keep the spoils of war when fighting outside.


    "There''s quite a lot of spoils of war." Only now did Bai Fu had the time and mood to carefully check through the treasures.


    Moments later.


    Bai Fu held a long bronze token. There were patterns on it that made it looked unparalleled. However, the bronze token was incomplete! Some of its patterns were cut off midway.


    "An incomplete bronze token?" Bai Fu was somewhat puzzled. "From the patterns, I can sense that it''s very profound even though it''s incomplete. It should be the work of a mighty figure. However, it''s not a Dharma treasure, and neither does it seem to have any heritage in it. What is its use?"


    Bai Fu injected a little of his psyche in it.


    "Boom!"


    There was a terrifying aura hidden within the bronze tablet that left Bai Fu''s face white.


    "What is it? With my strength, even a wisp of the aura is enough to make me feel horror." Bai Fu was alarmed as he revealed a look of glee. "A huge treasure! A huge one! Although it''s incomplete, it clearly is extraordinary. I should keep it for myself first."

 591 Bai Fus Calamity

    Chapter 591: Bai Fu''s Calamity


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Bai Fu secretly studied the mysterious incomplete bronze token for many days, but failed to decipher its use. Nor could he figure out its origins.


    "Brother Qu, I''m here to take over your shift!" Bai Fu came to take over the guarding duties in front of North Star Palace.


    "Brother Bai Fu, you finally came. Alright, I''ll leave it to you." Another Heavenly general laughed as he left.


    Bai Fu stood in front of North Star Palace as the Heavenly Eye at his glabella opened. With the North Star Palace''s powers, he began looking over the Three Realms.


    "Bai Fu, I heard you took an order to fight fiends a few days ago? You sure are diligent. Don''t you know how to skive?"


    "Yes, you had already reached the quota needed for your mission. You could have turned down the request."


    The Heavenly generals beside him also began chatting amid laughter.


    Bai Fu watched from the side as he said, "It''s quite boring in the Heavenly Courts as well. Going out to fight allows me to oil my bones."


    "Even if you cultivate your body and are able to withstand damage, you should take it easy. Engaging in combat as often as you do, who knows when you will end up losing your life?"


    "Take my advice and be more careful. There''s nothing wrong with taking an elder brother''s advice," said the Heavenly generals.


    Bai Fu laughed as he chatted.


    But slowly, his expression changed.


    "What''s happening?"


    "Where''s Qing''er?" Bai Fu looked down at the lower realm and looked toward his hometown as he sought his wife.


    Over all these years, the thing that left him the most eager was each time he began his duty, giving him a chance to look down at his homeworld and see his wife¡­


    "Skyfiends have invaded?"


    "How could they have?" Bai Fu''s expression changed drastically. "Time in the Heavenly Courts flows very slowly. A day in the Heavenly Courts can be a year in the lower realms. Three years would have passed for my homeworld! It''s only been half a month since I last checked. It''s been nearly fifty years in my homeworld. What sudden change happened? Why are so many areas occupied by Skyfiends?"


    "Where''s my wife?


    "Where''s Qing''er? Is she still alive?" Bai Fu hurriedly cast his Heavenly Eye and carefully searched every corner of his homework.


    Soon.


    He found her.


    The strongest female general of that Small World had led other Skyimmortals in casting an array formation to protect the last bastion of humans. Many humans were gathered there.


    "Qing''er." Bai Fu was filled with anxiety when he saw this scene. "Although they have come up with a temporary solution, I have to think of a way to save my homeworld, as well as Qing''er."


    "Brother Zhang." Bai Fu said to a general beside him. "I have something I need your help with."


    "Brother Bai Fu, what kind of ties do we have? Feel free to request. I''ll definitely help you if you find me useful," quipped a Heavenly general by his side who had just taken over the shift.


    "Can I seek the help of the troops our Heavenly Courts stationed in the Changjun Great World to drive away the Skyfiends in my homeworld!? It''s best if they can save my wife," said Bai Fu immediately. "Brother Zhang, you have been in the Heavenly Courts for so long and you have connections with many people¡­"


    "The stationed troops in the Changjun Great World?" The Heavenly general frowned. "Back when Sword Immortal Qin swept through the twenty-six dominions, countless fiends either died or escaped! Countless Small Worlds were taken back. As such, your homeworld regained its peace. However, ever since Sword Immortal Qin''s Essence Soul broke through, he is unable to enter a Small World with his real body. Therefore, the fiends have sent countless Skyfiends to begin infiltrating the twenty-six dominions again.


    "Of course, we now enjoy the advantage. It''s difficult for the fiends to even take back a hundredth of their original territory," said the Heavenly general. "But even so, the battles in the twenty-six dominions remain intense. The Changjun Great World is one of them. The stationed troops are extremely busy and are occupied with the Skyfiends already. There are even many Daoist and Buddhist experts who came forward to help. I''m only an eighth-grade Heavenly general. At this critical moment, I have no way to request the stationed troops to render any personal aid."


    "Is there nothing you can do?" asked Bai Fu anxiously.


    "Brother Bai Fu," another Heavenly general persuaded. "It''s already not easy to seek the stationed troops in times of peace. Now that the stationed Heavenly troops are so busy there that they need external help, how are they to divert a company of Heavenly troops to specially help your homeworld?"


    ¡­


    Bai Fu thought of every means possible, but he was ultimately a lowly ninth-grade Heavenly general. His word held little weight and he was completely unable to help his distant homeworld, nor could he help the most important woman in his life.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Manor.


    Tribulation clouds formed abovehead as lightning smote down.


    Qin Yun waved his hand as an invisible wave swept out and disintegrated the lightning. Even the tribulation clouds were vanquished! With that, the third Itinerant Immortal tribulation passed.


    "Every Itinerant Immortal tribulation means a thousand years has passed. The amount of time I have left is shortened by a thousand years." Qin Yun showed no joy in his transcending of the tribulation. "However, I remained stuck at the bottleneck of the Great Dao of Man and Great Dao of Earth."


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao, who had watched Qin Yun transcend the tribulation from afar, walked over.


    "Xiaoxiao." Qin Yun looked at his wife.


    "Brother Yun, perhaps one day, you will suddenly break through the bottleneck of your Great Dao of Earth and Great Dao of Man. Brother Yun, you would then reach a perfected Great Dao." Yi Xiao gently clasped her husband''s hand.


    "Haha, let''s hope it''s as you say, my wife." Qin Yun laughed.


    His Sword Dao was divided into Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Therefore, studying the three Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man was very natural. If he was given sufficient time, attaining a perfected Great Dao was naturally not difficult. However, it was extremely difficult to do it in about ten thousand years! He still lacked the confidence even if he continuously consumed Samsara Dew.


    "Yuluo went out again?" asked Qin Yun suddenly.


    "That lass loves adventuring outside. Yet you egg her on," said Yi Xiao.


    "Training outside is beneficial for her cultivation. Look, her present strength is already higher than that of Huan''er''s and Yiyi''s." Qin Yun was very fond of his granddaughter. While he cultivated, he also secretly paved the way for his family! After all, in about ten thousand years, who knew if he would survive the twelve Itinerant Immortal tribulation? He had zero confidence in doing so. Besides, no one knew if there was a thirteenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    With the future ahead of him unclear, all he could do was try his best.


    Yiyi and Han Lin had a daughter named Qin Yuluo. Han Lin did not mind that his daughter had taken the Qin surname. As for the Han family who had only occupied a Small World, it naturally did not mind. They were more interested in being in Sword Immortal Qin''s good books for he was their biggest backer!


    Qin Yuluo had cultivated for a thousand plus years. She was extraordinarily talented and intelligent.


    Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, and Han Lin were sixth firmament Skyimmortals after thousands of years of cultivation. Yi Xiao had barely entered the Skyimmortal realm with the aid of Immortal Pills and other external items. As for his granddaughter, Qin Yuluo, she was already an eighth firmament Skyimmortal. Furthermore, her sword array arts were even more powerful. It was no wonder Qin Yun was fond of her.


    "Yes, the lass is indeed talented in sword arts, so much so that Perfected Jade Tripod wanted to recruit her as a disciple. However, he could only give up when he realized that she was a part of our Green Touring Palace lineage. However, he did teach the lass some sword arts for a few days." Yi Xiao smiled.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The difference in sects tied their hands.


    As Qin Yun''s granddaughter, she was born into the Green Touring Palace lineage. Besides, in terms of Sword Dao, Perfected Jade Tripod, who was similarly a pinnacle Golden Immortal, was not necessarily better than a sword immortal like Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something as he looked into the distance. "Has that Heavenly General Bai Fu met with his life-and-death calamity?"


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, above a mountainous forest.


    Many Heavenly troops were standing on a cloud as they overlooked the forest.


    "Bai Fu! You can''t escape. Surrender now!" a Heavenly general bellowed.


    "Brother Bai Fu," another Heavenly general persuaded. "You have violated the Heavenly rules by descending to the lower realm without permission. If you were to surrender now, the various generals of North Star Palace will plead on your behalf and get the Heavenly Courts to mete out a lesser punishment. If you remain obstinate¡­ you might end up paying a visit to Immortal Slaying Platform."


    Bai Fu stood in midair as he looked at the grand display of three thousand Heavenly troops on a cloud. He could not help but turn infuriated.


    "I, Bai Fu, have been fighting for the Heavenly Courts all over the Three Realms since the day I joined. I never complained, but now, with my homeworld in trouble and my wife''s life on the line, all I did was request the Heavenly Courts to let me descend into the lower realm to save my homeworld and wife by dealing with the Skyfiends. Is there anything wrong with that?" said an incensed Bai Fu.


    "Bastard!"


    The leading general berated, "Bai Fu, the Heavenly Courts has rules when it comes to troop deployment. You are only a mere ninth-grade Heavenly general, but you already wish to overturn the Heavenly Courts'' rules. You wish for the Heavenly Courts to give you special treatment and allow you to go down to the lower realms? There are countless soldiers in the Heavenly Courts. If every one of them makes such a request, what is the point of rules?"


    Bai Fu fell silent before saying in a deep voice, "If I were to surrender, would the Heavenly Courts send troops to save my homeworld and wife on account of all the hard work I put in over the years?"


    "How dare you bargain when you have violated the Heavenly rules?" bellowed the general angrily. "On account of us being fellow colleagues in the past, I will give you a chance to surrender. If not, you will not be able to escape once I give the command."


    "You aren''t giving me a single chance?" Bai Fu scoffed. "Forget it."


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    Sou!


    Bai Fu transformed into a flaming beam as he escaped.


    "Capture Bai Fu!" The leading general gave the order.


    "Boom!" The Heavenly troops conjured a military formation as they released ropes that tore through the sky and began enveloping Bai Fu.


    Bai Fu revealed a look of despair.


    "I''m not even being given a chance." Bai Fu flipped his hand and took out a small wooden sword. "Did Sword Immortal Qin give me this wooden sword because he knew this day would come?"


    Pa.


    He did not hesitate to shatter the small wooden sword.

 592 Taking Action

    Chapter 592: Taking Action


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    The moment the wooden sword shattered, misty Sword Qi appeared and enveloped Bai Fu.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The Heavenly troops set up an array as they released ropes in a bid to ensnare Bai Fu. However, when the ropes struck the misty Sword Qi, they tore apart immediately. This scene left the Heavenly troops astounded. Although the ropes regrew after being severed, they were immediately torn apart once they approached the Sword Qi.


    "What''s that Sword Qi on him? The Locking Earth Array gets torn apart on contact?"


    "What a powerful Sword Qi."


    The numerous Heavenly generals were confused by this scene.


    The leading general had a nasty expression. "If the Locking Earth Array can''t capture him, does it mean we need to use the Inescapable Net Array to deal with a mere Heavenly general like him?"


    "At our level of strength, it''s impossible for us to cast the Inescapable Net Array."


    "In my opinion, it''s best we report this to the higher-ups. The protective Sword Qi that Bai Fu has must be there for a reason. If the Sword Qi is this potent, the owner that cast it... is likely a mighty figure. This matter still needs to be judged by our superiors. Let''s not meddle any further."


    The other Heavenly generals engaged in a discussion.


    "Continue pursuing him and seal the surrounding void. Do not let him escape. I will report this to our superiors," said the leading general solemnly.


    ...


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were looking into the sky where an image had formed. It depicted scenes of the Heavenly troops chasing after Bai Fu.


    "Brother Yun, did you give him that wooden sword?" said Yi Xiao in surprise.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    "From the looks of it, you seem to think highly of him." Yi Xiao also carefully looked at the scenes. "However, these Heavenly troops do not seem to recognize your Sword Qi."


    "With the Sword Qi I bestowed him, the 3000 Heavenly troops won''t be able to take him down," said Qin Yun. "Soon, the Heavenly Courts will send someone of a higher ranking and with greater strength. Those with good discernment would recognize my Sword Qi. They will likely not be so petty towards a mere ninth-grade Heavenly general in respect of me."


    ...


    The protective Sword Qi could protect him, but the three thousand Heavenly troops kept following close. Furthermore, the sealed void prevented him from escaping through the void.


    "Bai Fu!" An angry voice bellowed.


    Bai Fu looked up and saw a stocky red-armored general step through the void. Standing in front of all the Heavenly troops, he stared angrily at him.


    "Marshal." Bai Fu could not help but feel his heart tremble. The person who had come was none other than Marshal Xue of the Heavenly Courts'' North Star Palace. He was only second to the Palatial Lord and he enjoyed an extremely lofty position. He was also a third-grade immortal official in the Heavenly Courts.


    "By disobeying the Heavenly rules and proceeding down into the lower realm, you have disgraced our North Star Palace!" Marshal Xue bellowed angrily. Similarly, he was carefully observing the protective Sword Qi on Bai Fu''s body as he pondered silently.


    The protective Sword Qi...


    The Sword Qi looked like smoky rain, but it was extremely sharp.


    The only ones in the Three Realms with such terrifying Sword Qi were the three sword immortals. Two came from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage and the other was Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin who had independently forged a lineage.


    The Sword Immortal Qin was like a misty rain... which meant that it likely belonged to Sword Immortal Qin.


    "Marshal, I''m willing to accept punishment for violating the rules of the Heavenly Courts. But at this moment, all I wish is for the Heavenly Courts to save my homeworld and my wife," pleaded Bai Fu.


    "Let me ask you. Where did your protective Sword Qi come from?" asked Marshall Xue coldly.


    Bai Fu turned anticipant as he answered immediately, "Sword Immortal Qin bestowed it to me, saying that I would be able to protect myself with it when I meet a calamity."


    "Oh?"


    Marshal Xue said coldly, "Sword Immortal Qin gave you this to protect yourself, not to use it to violate the Heavenly rules! Follow me back to the Heavenly Courts and await your punishment!" With that said, he waved his hand, sending a chessboard flying forward. It expanded greatly in size as it came bearing down at Bai Fu so as to capture him.


    ...


    At Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao both saw the scene.


    "Despite knowing that I was the one who bestowed the protective Sword Qi, he still wants to apprehend him?" Qin Yun felt somewhat embarrassed having just bragged in front of his wife only to be instantly smacked in the face.


    He immediately waved his hand.


    "Boom!"


    The Misty Rain Sword flew out of his fingertips and struck the void. A spatial passageway connecting Bai Fu''s location appeared.


    ...


    Bai Fu felt reeled in despair and anxiety when he saw the massive chessboard descending upon him.


    Among the Heavenly generals a distance away, a number of them who had good relationships with Bai Fu shook their heads in secret. Although they pitied him too, none of them dared to violate the Heavenly rules. It could be said that the Heavenly rules did little to bind lofty existences like Yang Jian and Nezha, but to lowly Heavenly generals like them, the Heavenly rules were not to be violated!


    Boom!


    A passageway was forcibly torn open in the void.


    The Misty Rain Sword descended from within.


    The Misty Rain Sword was a Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure and also a Merit Numinous treasure. Qin Yun''s killing of Star Destruction had made it a Merit Numinous treasure with excess! Following that, the merit he gained from storming the twenty-six dominions, as well as the merit obtained from killing Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend Moxiu, had been infused into the flying sword. It made his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s merit even more astounding and powerful.


    The Misty Rain Sword''s potency was in no way inferior to the Qingping Sword when in Qin Yun''s hands. It was just slightly less mystical.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The terrifying misty Sword Qi was boundless like the ocean as it instantly spread across the void.


    The Heavenly troops a distance away turned stiff as none of them dared to move. Even Marshall Xue''s expression changed drastically as he felt intense horror. The massive chessboard in the sky hummed as it flew back into his hand.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Marshall Xue smiled in an obsequious manner as he lowered his back.


    He was feeling immense shock and astonishment. "What a terrifying Sword Qi. He''s probably already stronger than the Third Prince. He might even just equal Perfect Sovereign Erlang."


    "Bai Fu, come over here."


    A voice transmitted from the void passageway.


    The Sword Qi wrapped Bai Fu as it pulled him into the void passageway and into Mt. Lightning Roar.


    The void passageway closed once again.


    The three thousand Heavenly troops exchanged looks.


    "Marshall." The Heavenly generals looked at Marshall Xue.


    With a cold face, Marshall Xue ordered, "Let''s return to the Heavenly Courts."


    "This Sword Immortal Qin sure is impressive. His actions are really enough to rend the world asunder. Even Marshall Xue does not dare say a word as he snatches Bai Fu away."


    "What else can we do? Go snatch him back? Who can we send?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin is said to have the Qingping Sword, which is a Connate Cardinal treasure. Once he uses it, the strength demonstrated is completely unimaginable."


    "Brother Bai Fu sure is lucky to have Sword Immortal Qin helping him."


    A few Heavenly generals discussed over voice transmissions.


    And leading them, Marshall Xue shot a glance at the distant Mt. Lightning Roar. A smile suffused the corners of his lips. "If I had retreated because of a protective treasure, the Heavenly Courts would put the blame on me for letting you off. Now that Sword Immortal Qin has personally taken action to help you escape, there are three thousand Heavenly troops who saw it with their own eyes. The Heavenly Courts will not pin the blame on me. Bai Fu, I can''t protect you for your violation of the Heavenly rules, but Sword Immortal Qin can!"


    ...


    Mt. Lightning Roar. Qin Manor.


    Bai Fu was carried through the void passageway into the Qin Manor with the Sword Qi. There, he saw a couple standing side by side.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, thank you for saving me." Bai Fu knelt down in gratitude.


    Qin Yun flicked his hand, preventing Bai Fu from kneeling.


    "There''s no need to stand on ceremony. It was nothing," said Qin Yun.


    "I violated the Heavenly rules. Even pinnacle mighty figures in the Three Realms who can rescue me would probably not wish to cross the Heavenly Courts," said Bai Fu. "Sword Immortal Qin, by saving me, you have displeased the Heavenly Courts. It''s all my fault."


    Bai Fu felt that he owed Qin Yun too much.


    Qin Yun had saved his life previously as well as bestowed him with a life-protective item.


    This time, he had saved him from the Heavenly Courts!


    If it was said to be in passing the last time, it was far from that this time! After all, he was protecting a Heavenly general who had violated the Heavenly rules.


    "To me or to the Heavenly Courts, your matter is trivial," said Qin Yun. "Alright, you left for the lower realm in order to save your homeworld and wife, right?"


    "Yes," said Bai Fu immediately. "I wish to save them, but there was nothing I could do. The only thing I could do was head down alone and think of means to head to my homeworld."


    "Saving lives is of utmost priority. Let''s not delay this any further. I will send you there now." Qin Yun waved his hand and tore open a spatial passageway. It was a passageway that led straight to the starry space just beyond Bai Fu''s homeworld.


    Bai Fu felt even greater gratitude when he saw this. He bowed deeply. "Sword Immortal Qin, I really have no idea how I can thank you.


    "I''m just a lowly ninth-grade Heavenly general. I have nothing that you might fancy." Bai Fu flipped his hand and took out the incomplete bronze token. "This bronze token is rather mysterious. I can''t tell what it is, but it should likely be of great importance. Just treat it as a gesture of gratitude. Sword Immortal Qin, please accept it."


    "There''s no need." Qin Yun smiled as he shook his head. He had no intentions for any repayment for his deed. After all, he did things according to his own wishes.


    However, when Qin Yun''s gaze swept over the incomplete bronze tablet, his heart stirred.


    "Oh? Let me first take a look." Qin Yun extended his hand as the bronze token flew over.

 593 Yellow-robed Monk

    Chapter 593: Yellow-robed Monk


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    A mere glance at the patterns on the incomplete bronze token''s surface was enough to imbue Qin Yun with new insights into the Great Dao of Earth which he had been stuck at a bottleneck on for millennia. He even felt that he had a chance of breaking through the bottleneck.


    "For my Great Dao of Earth to attain a Dao fruit, the opportunity might actually depend on this incomplete bronze token." Qin Yun felt a little excited.


    He had reached a bottleneck a long time ago, but he had failed to find a breakthrough. All he knew was that he had to keep accumulating insights.


    Today, Qin Yun saw hope in the bronze token''s patterns.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, please take it. This bronze token is useless with me," said Bai Fu immediately.


    "This bronze token is indeed useful to me. I''ll take it." Qin Yun nodded with a smile.


    Bai Fu also revealed a look of delight.


    Qin Yun had saved his life twice and had held back the Heavenly Courts for him. He had no idea how he could repay the debt, so now that Qin Yun was accepting the gift, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I''ll be returning to my homeworld for now." Bai Fu could no longer stay put any longer for his mind was completely worried for his homeworld and wife.


    "Take your leave then." Qin Yun nodded.


    After Bai Fu bowed reverently, he turned around and stepped into the spatial passageway and headed for the cosmic space slightly beyond his homeworld.


    Soon, the spatial passageway closed.


    As Qin Yun held the incomplete token, he found karma truly magical.


    "Brother Yun, is this bronze token very useful for you?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded. "The opportunity for my Great Dao of Earth to undergo a breakthrough is in here. This world sure is magical. I helped him only because I wanted to do so and did not hope for anything in return. I never expected that a ninth-grade Heavenly general like him... would provide me with a breakthrough opportunity."


    Yi Xiao smiled and said, "Brother Yun, you have traveled the world punishing evil and helping the good. You saved many people and he''s just one of the many you saved. With the way karma gets around, you were only given this opportunity because of all the things you have done."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Great merit allowed more light to shine on him from providence! Even the heavens helped him!


    However, to forge iron, one had to be tough themselves. Cultivation still mainly depended on one''s own efforts. The light that shone from providence only provided some help. If one did not cultivate arduously, just merit and the light would only make one a Merit Immortal at best.


    ...


    Qin Yun sat under a pavilion and, as he sipped at his tea, he carefully studied the incomplete bronze token.


    "Amazing. Simply amazing." The more Qin Yun looked at it, the more praises he gave. "The Great Dao of Earth contained in this pattern has far exceeded my imaginations.


    "Let me see what mystical charm is within the token."


    A wisp of his perception penetrated the token.


    However, he immediately discovered a terrifying aura contained within the bronze token. Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly when the two forces clashed.


    "This aura... must belong to a perfected Great Dao existence at the very least? It might even be more powerful!" Qin Yun revealed a look of anticipation. "It must have been left behind by the original owner. However, it''s ultimately only a remnant aura. A water fountain without a source would not take long to dry out!"


    Qin Yun''s perception penetrated like sharp swords that constantly ground away the terrifying aura contained within.


    The grinding process was very slow.


    However, Qin Yun could constantly release his perception, continuing after some rest when his Essence Soul was exhausted. As for the aura contained inside the bronze token, it kept depleting.


    Qin Yun did this for twenty-six days.


    Early in the morning.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged in a chamber as he held the incomplete bronze token. The final wisp of the terrifying aura was finally wiped clean.


    "Hum." The incomplete bronze token emitted a faint glow as Qin Yun''s Itinerant Immortal Dharmic powers could finally infiltrate the token to refine it and gain full control over it.


    The instant he established control, Qin Yun sensed two fluctuations far in the northwest.


    "There are two other incomplete tokens? They are in the northwest?" Qin Yun immediately understood something. "However, the truth is concealed by layers of confusion. I can only confirm a particular direction, but I can''t find them! In terms of hiding from the heavenly secrets, these means are more powerful than the hiding capabilities of Mental Demon Ancestral Fiends."


    He had to go to great lengths in his search for the Mental Demon Ancestral Fiend. He had to kill the fiend''s disciple and even had to monitor a city for quite a long period of time before he could make a guess. Thankfully, his guess had been right.


    To find items that were even concealed by the heavens? It was beyond Qin Yun''s ability to infer the heavenly secrets.


    "The heavenly secrets haven been hidden extremely well. It must be done by an expert," thought Qin Yun. "I can sense that the other two tokens which means that the owner of the other two tokens can sense me as well!"


    ******


    At the instant the incomplete bronze token was refined by Qin Yun, in a forest northwest of the Heavenly realm, a yellow-robed monk with brows drooping down sat cross-legged in a simple wooden hut.


    Although it was very spartan, to the point of not being able to completely shield the rain, the elderly monk kept sitting there... It was as though he had not moved in millennia or tens of millennia.


    "Oh?" The yellow-robed monk opened his eyes as he looked into the distant southeast where Mt. Lightning Roar was.


    "The last of the three Seal Presiding Tokens has finally appeared," muttered the yellow-robed monk. His gaze tore through various obstructions as he looked at Mt. Lightning Roar. "It was refined by that Itinerant Immortal Qin Yun?"


    "I spent so many year seeking these two Seal Presiding Tokens, but the final one is in Qin Yun''s hands. It''s won''t be easily snatched." The yellow-robed monk considered for a moment.


    He flicked his sleeve.


    A passageway that connected to a distant Great World immediately opened in the void beside him.


    A thin elder holding a wooden stave walked out of it. When the elder came in front of the wooden hut, he immediately bowed when he saw the yellow-robed monk. "Teacher."


    "Magus Xian, all I did was give you a few pointers back then. I''m not considered your teacher," said the yellow-robed monk with a smile.


    "Teacher, might I know why you requested my presence?" Magus Xian asked directly.


    "I wish for you to make a trip to Mt. Lightning Roar and meet Qin Yun," said the monk.


    "Oh? That Sword Immortal Qin?" Magus Xian knitted his brows. He was ranked in the top three among the Ten Magi, famous for his divine inference and hexes! Even pinnacle Golden Immortals who were equal in strength to him did not dare cross him. After all, if the Magi were provoked, their enemy might be hit with a hex spell or be poisoned without even realizing it. Even if it did not lead to death, severe injuries were definite.


    None of the Ten Magi were perfected Great Dao existences, but the Magi had managed to establish rule over a whole dominion! No faction in the Three Realms, or even the Chaos Godfiends, dared to have any thoughts on this dominion. Furthermore, the Magi also spread their heritage to the Great and Small Worlds of the other dominions.


    This was because the Ten Magi were truly terrifying!


    They had the arts of medicine, poison, hexes, array formation, and battle magi... It remained capable even without a perfected Great Dao existence.


    Due to their potent means, many were willing to cultivate under the Magi.


    "Seek out Qin Yun and tell him that you wish to buy the bronze token he just refined," said the yellow-robed monk with a smile. "However, do not mention my name."


    "Bronze tablet?" Magus Xian was puzzled.


    "It''s one with these two pieces." The monk flipped his hand, revealing two incomplete bronze tokens. "The three tokens are all incomplete, but once they are put together, the patterns on them will form a complete one. Having seen these two pieces, you will be able to instantly recognize the third piece when you see it."


    Magus Xian nodded slightly. "What if the conditions he raises are too high?"


    "If that happens..." The monk immediately exhorted him in detail.


    "Got it." Magus Xian nodded slightly.


    "Go on," said the monk. "Remember, do not mention me."


    "Teacher, don''t worry," said Magus Xian in response. He was aware that his teacher did things in mystery.


    ...


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Early in the morning.


    Qin Yun stood on the mountain peak as he watched the clouds stir across the vast skies.


    "My Magi friend, what a rare occasion," said Qin Yun suddenly with a laugh. Mt. Lightning Roar''s array automatically opened up a passageway as a thin elder stepped through the void with a wooden stave in hand.


    Qin Yun instantly recognized him to be the famous Magus Xian of the Three Realms.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," greeted Magus Xian with a smile. The peerless sword immortal was powerful to begin with. With the Qingping Sword, he was far from Qin Yun''s match.


    "Might I know why you came?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I am aware that you just received an incomplete bronze token. It''s useless by itself in your hands, so why don''t you sell it to me?" said Magus Xian with a smile.


    Qin Yun felt his heart jolt from hearing that.


    When he sensed the other two tokens, Qin Yun had guessed that the owner of the two tokens was likely to have sensed him as well. It also meant that the other party would likely respond quickly.


    "I guessed that an expert would come, but I never expected it to be a friend from the Magi," said Qin Yun wistfully with a smile. "Are the other two bronze tokens in your hands?"


    "You could say that."


    Magus Xian smiled and said, "I''m sincerely hoping to buy the bronze token you possess. Feel free to make a request of what you would like to exchange it for."

 594 Brewing

    Chapter 594: Brewing


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun looked at Magus Xian and thought to himself, "For him to let me set the terms first, it appears he is willing to spare no expense to obtain my token. However, I have no lack of treasures."


    In terms of treasures, Qin Yun had spent about half of the vast amounts of Stellar Stone he had for Samsara Dew and he still had a lot left. He also had the Connate Spirit Root, the Connate Lightning Fruit Tree, in his possession. This made Qin Yun''s wealth far exceed that of many pinnacle Golden Immortals.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, please raise your conditions," said Magus Xian again.


    Qin Yun hesitated for a moment before saying, "You can take the bronze token I have! And I only have one condition... lend the other two incomplete bronze tokens to me for studying. A month later, I''ll turn over the three tokens to you."


    "Lend you the two tokens?" Magus Xian was taken aback.


    He was also a bit stumped.


    "This is the only condition," said Qin Yun.


    ...


    Inside the wooden hut far away.


    The yellow-robed monk sat cross-legged there while Magus Xian''s avatar was beside him.


    "Teacher, this Qin Yun wishes for you to lend him the two bronze tokens for studying. He will then give us all three tokens after a month," said Magus Xian. "How should I answer him?"


    "Lend it to him for studying?"


    The monk''s eyes had a conflicted look. "The condition he raised does exceed my expectations. The three bronze tokens are just a catalyst. What''s there to study?"


    "Could it be a scam?" asked Magus Xian.


    The monk pondered for a moment before saying, "Agree to it! This Itinerant Immortal Qin Yun is now most concerned about his twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. Therefore, he is focused on cultivating to raise his strength. He wishes to attain the perfected Great Dao realm before the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation befalls him! This agreement results in karma. He would not wish to be tied by karma by going back on his words."


    "Alright." Magus Xian nodded.


    "However, have him promise that during the month he has the three tokens, he is not to leave Mt. Lightning Roar," said the monk.


    "Okay." Magus Xian nodded.


    ******


    Qin Yun looked at Magus Xian calmly as he patiently waited for an answer.


    He had long guessed that... Magus Xian likely had someone he was acting for.


    It was unlikely Magus Xian had attained a realm that allowed him to be able to hide the karma that well.


    "The other two tokens can be lent to you for studying, Sword Immortal Qin," said Magus Xian with a smile. "However, during the month of the loan, the three tokens are not to leave Mt. Lightning Roar! You will give me the three tokens a month later. How about that?"


    Qin Yun smiled. "Sure."


    Magus Xian nodded slightly as he waved his hand, producing an open spatial passageway. Two incomplete bronze tokens flew out from within and entered his hands.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun looked at the spatial passageway with interest. There was only a haze on the other end of the spatial passageway. He found it difficult to pry into the other side.


    "How mysterious," thought Qin Yun.


    "Here." Magus Xian smiled as he handed the two incomplete bronze tokens." I believe you will abide by your promise."


    "Don''t worry. I will do as I promised." Qin Yun''s eyes could not help but light up as he looked at the two tokens.


    "I don''t care about the secret behind the bronze tokens. What I care about is the inspiration the patterns on them give me." Qin Yun excitedly received the two incomplete bronze tokens. He could tell at a glance that the two tokens were originally one with the token he had! This was because the charms contained in the patterns stemmed from the same source.


    "I bid you farewell," said Magus Xian.


    Qin Yun did not keep him and quickly allowed Magus Xian to leave.


    The moment Magus Xian left, Qin Yun sat down cross-legged on the mountain peak. With a flip of his hand, he took out the incomplete bronze token he had.


    Immediately, he placed the three incomplete bronze tokens in front of him!


    Qin Yun did not combine them together but observed each one of them carefully. He took in the arcane charms of each pattern and the inspiration they brought him.


    "I wonder which senior carved these. The charms contained in the patterns... are truly amazing." Qin Yun was pleased looking at them. He could feel that he was getting close to the attaining of his Great Dao of Earth! Every minute of his observations pushed him closer.


    He spent the entire day sitting on the mountain peak.


    "It''s time to combine them together."


    Although he had studied it for a long time, allowing him to deeply impress the patterns on all three bronze tokens into his mind, the squarish bronze token that resulted when Qin Yun joined them together was unlike the picture he formed in his head. He could not help but feel palpitations in his heart when he saw the completed pattern.


    The squarish token had complete patterns that formed a complete array formation.


    The array formation was formed of many patterns and its entire body was squarish. It resembled that of a vast land!


    Hum!


    At the moment Qin Yun''s perception made contact, he felt that the bronze token contained information within.


    It was a map!


    "A map?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. "The map points to the Effulgent Great World''s Mt. Three Blades! There''s an array formation set up at Mt. Three Blades? Only through this complete bronze token can that array be opened?"


    Although this information left Qin Yun intrigued, he did not mind it.


    What was inside the array?


    Treasures?


    "So what if there are treasures? What I need is to figure out the Great Dao of Earth! Following that, I still need the Great Dao of Man! Only then will I attain a perfected Great Dao," thought Qin Yun. For instance, Daoist Burning Lamp had transformed the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads¡ªa Connate Cardinal treasure¡ªinto the twenty-four heavens in order to attain his perfected Great Dao.


    Some treasures were nothing worth mentioning when placed against the backdrop of a perfected Great Dao!


    Qin Yun quickly relegated the information contained in the bronze tablet to the back of his mind as he focused on studying the array formation formed by the completed patterns of the bronze token.


    "These naturally formed but massive charms... are what I''m lacking. As long as I figure it out, my Great Dao of Earth can be attained." Qin Yun concentrated on gaining further insights.


    ...


    Days passed one after another.


    Qin Yun stayed on the mountain peak, occasionally imbibing Samsara Dew to study the array formation.


    "Yuluo." Yi Xiao was chatting happily with a girl.


    "Grandma." The girl was none other than Qin Yuluo. She was the amalgamation of the strengths of her mother, Qin Yiyi and her father, Han Lin. She had Qin Yiyi''s sharpness and Han Lin''s tenderness. She was also the most talented junior in the Qin family after Qin Yun...


    "Where''s Grandpa?" asked Qin Yuluo immediately.


    "On the peak of the back mountain," said Yi Xiao.


    "I''ll go find him." Feeling somewhat impatient, Qin Yuluo stood up immediately.


    "He''s cultivating. Don''t disturb him," said Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yuluo was enlightened as she sat down obediently. "If only there wasn''t the threat of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. With Grandpa''s present strength, he is already one of the best in the Three Realms. Without the tribulation, Grandpa would be able to live freely."


    "Without worries allowing him to be carefree... It might seem free and easy, but in fact, it''s a form of selfishness," said Yi Xiao softly. ''Who doesn''t have worries and burdens? With worries and burdens, one cannot be truly free!"


    Qin Yuluo was taken aback as she pondered over the matter before nodding slightly.


    She had also cultivated for many years. In fact, she had her own burdens deep down.


    Her grandfather thought highly of her... He often gave her pointers! How precious was her grandfather''s time? Yet, he spent time guiding her. Qin Yuluo also knew that if her grandfather failed to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, the Qin family would lose its pillar of support! The Qin family would likely depend on her to prop it up if that happened. Although her grandfather had many friends who could help, it was best if she was strong herself. The Qin family had to have sufficient strength.


    Therefore, Qin Yuluo had been working hard at cultivation.


    Furthermore, there was always a figure in her heart that made her unwilling to slack off.


    "It''s just that Brother Yun''s burdens are too great." Yi Xiao smiled. "Of course, he is very happy to allow countless beings to live on and does not think of them as burdens."


    Qin Yuluo nodded slightly. "Perhaps only with such a Dao heart was it possible for Grandpa to create a new sword immortal lineage and attain a pinnacle Great Dao the moment he formed his Sword Dao. It''s also why he has a greater chance of attaining a perfected Great Dao."


    ...


    A month passed in a blink of an eye.


    Magus Xian came and Qin Yun very naturally handed over the three already separated incomplete bronze tokens to him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin is indeed a man of his word," said Magus Xian with a smile. Many mighty figures in the Three Realms, even the ancient existences, respected Qin Yun. He was willing to sacrifice himself for countless mortals, even to the point of not being enticed by the Fiend Ancestor. This was already worthy of admiration. On the other hand, Qin Yun''s potential was that of a perfected Great Dao. The only problem was that the Itinerant Immortal tribulations presented the biggest obstacle to Qin Yun''s cultivation journey.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly as he watched Magus Xian leave.


    There was a stir brewing in his heart. Once it was done, what spewed forth would be the success of his Great Dao.


    "The information contained in the bronze token points to the Effulgent Great World''s Mt. Three Blades. There''s a bigger array formation there which requires the bronze token to open?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Although I have no means of opening it, I can go and take a look at the bigger array formation."


    "Time to leave."


    Without any hesitation, he took a step forward and tore through space to head for the Effulgent Great World.

 595 Mt. Three Blades

    Chapter 595: Mt. Three Blades


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Bolts of lightning blasted amid a storm.


    Qin Yun stood on a mountaintop, but the downpour which came down in waves and even the bolts of lightning that flashed failed to get close to him. An invisible domain had insulated him from everything.


    "Mt. Three Blades." Qin Yun looked at the massive and lofty mountain before him. "This is my first time here at Mt. Three Blades. It surely looks grand."


    Mt. Three Blades had three peaks that resembled three sharp blades stabbing through the firmaments.


    The lofty mountains had stood there since time immemorial.


    "According to the information I received, Mt. Three Blades has a massive array within that can only be opened with the bronze token?" With a thought, Qin Yun sent potent Dharmic powers into the mountain to thoroughly probe it.


    The moment the outermost layer of rock was penetrated, Qin Yun discovered that there was indeed a complex and mystical array formation hidden within the mountain. Strictly speaking, the array formation was in the form of a mountain, as though its ''skeleton'' was the veins of the mountain! The array formation was not only limited to the external layer, but Qin Yun was able to sense countless veins that led deep into the mountain.


    "I have never seen such a complex array formation." Qin Yun was somewhat shocked. "The Immortal Vanquishing Array is as massive at the heavens, allowing the powers of four Connate Cardinal treasure to combine as one. As for this array formation, it''s even more complex and dense. It''s like the countless veins of the massive world itself¡­


    "They differ in completely different directions.


    "But I can determine that this array formation is on the same level as the Immortal Vanquishing Array."


    Qin Yun''s eyes were sharp.


    He had been studying the Qingping Sword for quite some time, having already figured out many moves for the Qingping Sword over the past three millennia.


    He had also studied the Immortal Vanquishing Array graph, so he quickly determined that Mt. Three Blades'' array was on the same level as the Immortal Vanquishing Array''s.


    This made him even more astonished. "What realm does Master have? Could the person who created the array formation in Mt. Three Blades be Master''s equal? However, the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestor are unable to descend into the Effulgent Great World with their real bodies. Furthermore, this array formation clearly does not rely on external objects like array disks or array flags. It is formed by massive amounts of Dharmic powers to the point of materializing as a mountain!"


    "Back then, the Buddhist Ancestor, Gautama, used his five fingers as a mountain to suppress that monkey. Mt. Three Blades is the same or even more brilliant." Qin Yun was shocked once again as he tried to penetrate deeper.


    Previously, the tiny array on the bronze token''s surface had already left him infatuated.


    The massive array of Mt. Three Blades only left him more intrigued.


    "What a pity. All I can do is study the massive array''s surface. There are countless veins in the array that goes deep into the mountain which I can''t see." Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    With one stride, Qin Yun flew down the mountaintop and chose a forest at the foot of the mountain. He built a wooden shack and temporarily resided within.


    ¡­


    By staying there, he could frequently study Mt. Three Blades'' massive array. The stirrings he received also intensified. It was a stirring of the land and of the myriad things in the world.


    Just two days later.


    Cold winds howled as the sky turned very dark.


    A linen-clothed elder secretly came to Mt. Three Blades.


    "It has been so many years. It''s time to open it." The elder smiled as he came to the mountainside. With a wave of his hand, he threw out a complete bronze token.


    The squarish token flew out and fused with a boulder on the mountainside as it silently became one with the array within.


    "Boom!"


    A passageway opened at that spot.


    The elder immediately took a step forward and disappeared into the passageway.


    "Oh?"


    At the forest beneath the mountain, Qin Yun stood in front of his wooden shack while looking up at Mt. Three Blades. He saw the elder enter.


    "Who is that elder? I actually can''t tell who he is. His aura and karma cannot be inspected at all," thought Qin Yun. "Is he the owner of the other two incomplete bronze tokens? He was the one who got Magus Xian to seek me?"


    This mysterious existence made Qin Yun somewhat alarmed.


    He was in no hurry to enter.


    After all, the allure of treasure was of lower priority. Cultivation was what mattered the most.


    ¡­


    In the deepest depths of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body sat cross-legged.


    Suddenly, the closed third eye at his glabella quaked gently. The Fiend Ancestor looked in a direction upon sensing something.


    "Mt. Three Blades has been opened?" muttered the Fiend Ancestor.


    He looked into the void ahead of him.


    Space warped as it connected to another region.


    There, an elder was sitting cross-legged on a blood-colored lotus flower. He was smiling in his direction as he immediately stood up and bowed. "Fiend Ancestor."


    "Brother Blood Sea." A smile suffused the Fiend Ancestor''s face. "I have something I need your help with."


    Patriarch Blood Sea listened carefully.


    "Mt. Three Blades has just been opened," said the Fiend Ancestor. "That place has deep karmic ties with me, so I sensed it as soon as it opened. I wish for you to head there as soon as possible with your subordinates! You should know of my goals."


    "Mt. Three Blades?" Patriarch Blood Sea was astonished. "It was sealed a long time ago. Why would it be opened? Is there a conspiracy?"


    "That''s also why I''m seeking your help," said the Fiend Ancestor with a smile. "Even if you were to suffer any losses, I will make it up to you."


    Patriarch Blood Sea nodded slightly. "Fiend Ancestor, rest assured. I will lead my subordinates there right now."


    The Fiend Ancestor nodded.


    The warped void returned to normal.


    "Mt. Three Blades actually opened during this period of time? Perhaps there really is a conspiracy, but I can''t bother with it. As long as the blood sea is not destroyed, the members of the sea of blood lineage would not die. Even if they lose their bodies¡­ their bodies can be cultivated again after some time." The Fiend Ancestor looked in the direction of the distant Mt. Three Blades.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm. Guan River.


    Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, who was cultivating in his own cave abode, suddenly felt the vertical mark on his glabella distort slightly.


    "Oh?" Yang Jian could not help but be alarmed as he looked far in a particular direction.


    Through distance space, he saw the Effulgent Great World and Mt. Three Blades.


    "Mt. Three Blades?" Yang Jian frowned slightly. "Why would I sense that area? I have never felt anything from it previously. This Mt. Three Blades is not famous either, so why would I sense something from it?"


    "I''ll go take a look."


    As the number one combat general of the Jade Void Palace and the Heavenly Courts, Yang Jian naturally had confidence in his ability to survive any danger he encountered.


    Immediately, he took a step forward and rushed over very quickly.


    ¡­


    In the forest at the foot of Mt. Three Blades, Qin Yun was watching all of this in silence.


    Shortly after the linen-clothed elder entered, Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian appeared.


    "Yang Jian?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    Qin Yun''s realm was extremely high and he was adept with the Seven Stars Art. If he intended to hide from the heavenly secrets, even perfected Great Dao existences would fail to discover him.


    Yang Jian similarly did not notice Qin Yun. He came to Mt. Three Blades and, with a simple probe, he discovered the terrifying array contained within. Furthermore, the entrance into the array had been opened.


    As the saying goes, the talented are truly bolder.


    Yang Jian similarly walked into the entrance.


    "How does Yang Jian know about the opening of Mt. Three Blades'' array formation?" Qin Yun was puzzled.


    About ten minutes later, seven more figures descended upon Mt. Three Blades. They also hid themselves from the heavenly secrets and were none other than the Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage led by Patriarch Blood Sea. The sea of blood lineage was one of the most flourishing lineages of the fiends and was unlike the spirit-devouring lineage which had only recently rose to prominence. The sea of blood lineage had a longer history having come into being shortly after Pang Gu separated the heaven and earth.


    This lineage had relatively more Ancestral Fiends, and this time, Patriarch Blood Sea was leading six of them.


    The Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage were well known for being unafraid of death!


    "Let''s enter." Patriarch Blood Sea swept the area and immediately found the entrance to the array formation. He then led his subordinates into the entrance.


    "Who are these seven? They have hidden themselves from the heavenly secrets as well. Even I can''t identify them." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "More and more people are entering."


    Qin Yun also had plans on entering.


    However, he only wished to enter to observe the array from within and use the opportunity to make a cultivation breakthrough.


    He was in no hurry since he did not care for the treasures.


    After another hour, no one else entered.


    "I''ll enter to take a look." Only then did Qin Yun take a step forward to arrive by the mountainside. Similarly, he entered the array formation.

 596 Storming In

    Chapter 596: Storming In


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Patriarch Blood Sea led his six subordinates as they proceeded deep into the mountain''s belly. Along the mountainside''s passageway, they could still see array formation patterns surfacing. The terrifying array formation''s aura emanated from every direction in a suppressive manner.


    "Patriarch, who set up this array formation? The suppressive effect it has on the surroundings is potent. Not only can we not release our psyche, but even our Dharmic powers cannot be released," inquired an Ancestral Fiend.


    "Hmm."


    Patriarch Blood Sea frowned slightly as well. "There''s no way to release Dharmic powers, so that means no avatar can be released! The original plan was to use avatars to rapidly explore the area¡­ From the looks of it, that plan won''t work."


    The other Ancestral Fiends were puzzled as well.


    "Who was it that set up this array formation? What is sealed in this sealed land as deemed by Patriarch? We tried asking, but he doesn''t tell us."


    "Just looking at this array formation is enough to tell how terrifying it is. It feels even more terrifying than the array formations set up at Patriarch''s residence."


    "We can only obediently follow orders."


    The six Ancestral Fiends were secretly communicating via voice transmission.


    Although they were here under orders, they had no idea what was happening. All they knew was at the core of Mt. Three Blades, there was a sealed land. They had no clue otherwise.


    Soon.


    At the end of the passageway was a set of crossroads. There were a total of twelve passageways that branched off from there.


    "Twelve passageways?" Patriarch Blood Sea frowned slightly. A glint surfaced in his eyes as he carefully studied the twelve passageways. "These passageways go deep and they seem to split off further? These passageways are the veins of the array formation in Mt. Three Blades! Countless passageways¡­ make it seem like a massive maze. It won''t be easy finding the sealed land."


    Patriarch Blood Sea waved his hand and threw out six array flags, making them float in midair.


    "Yuxiu, preside over the array formation here and seal off that passageway. Prevent any outsiders from entering," instructed Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "If I can''t stop them?" Yuxiu was a handsome, bald man with beautiful features. He was the most handsome among the six Ancestral Fiends.


    "Try you best. There aren''t many in the Three Realms who can crack this array formation," said Patriarch Blood Sea lightly. Following that, he instructed the other five. "The five of you are to randomly select a passageway to explore. Be quick and carefully search for the core of the array formation. It will be where the sealed land is! Once you discover it, inform me immediately."


    "Yes."


    The Ancestral Fiends acknowledged the order.


    "Set off." Patriarch Blood Sea chose a passageway first and went straight in. The other five Ancestral Fiends immediately chose different passageways and set off.


    Yuxiu was left there as he held the six array flags in hand. He rapidly refined them and threw them out, embedding them into the walls of the passageway. A blood-colored array formation then appeared to seal off the passageway.


    "I was chosen to preside over the array formation because my Dharmic powers are needed to raise the array formation''s strength, right?" The corners of Yuxiu''s mouth curled up. "I''m the weakest to begin with. I''ll at least be of some use by providing Dharmic powers to power the array formation. Regardless, since I''m here, it doesn''t matter if I lose this body. Patriarch will make it up to me.


    "Compared to those five, perhaps staying guard here is safer."


    Yuxiu looked at the twelve passageways and immediately sat down to maintain the array formation.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun proceeded along the passageway. The moment he entered, he sensed the terrifying suppression everywhere.


    "This array formation''s suppression sure is powerful," exclaimed Qin Yun. "Even Dharmic powers cannot be released."


    Hum!


    With a thought, he conjured the Misty Rain domain.


    The Misty Rain Sword''s Misty Rain domain could barely penetrate about a hundred feet under the suppression of the terrifying array formation.


    "My Misty Rain domain can span fifty thousand kilometers in the outside world, but it has been suppressed to about a hundred feet in here?" Although Qin Yun was alarmed, the area his domain spanned was enough to penetrate deep into the stone walls. He was able to come into contact with the intricate array formation veins. In fact, the array formation veins inside the mountain''s belly were densely ordered. Some of them could even be seen on the surface of the walls.


    Through the Misty Rain domain''s penetration of the surrounding walls, Qin Yun carefully studied the array formation''s veins.


    "Amazing."


    Although Qin Yun was proud of his own accomplishments, he was increasingly amazed by what he saw.


    He stood in his spot, and only after taking in all that was within a hundred plus feet did he proceed forward. He walked very slowly as he engrossed himself in what he saw. He constantly gained new insights as the ideas in him accumulated. He knew he was getting closer to the attainment of a Great Dao of Earth. Even if he stopped and returned to Mt. Lightning Roar now, it was likely he could breakthrough in a few centuries.


    However, as he continued seeing more of the massive array formation, his improvement only sped up. Perhaps, he could break through in a day or two!


    Qin Yun walked very slowly. Just getting through the entrance took him five minutes.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly saw a blood-colored array formation seal at the end of the passageway ahead of him. Seated at the other end of the array formation was a figure. Qin Yun recognized him to be one of the seven figures from before.


    "A fiendish array formation? And it''s from the sea of blood lineage?" Qin Yun could clearly sense the rich fiendish auras from the blood-colored array formation.


    "It''s Qin Yun?"


    Yuxiu saw a green-robed man walk over through the blood-colored array formation. Although Qin Yun did not carry the Qingping Sword on his back, Yuxiu managed to identify him. This left his heart palpitating.


    He was only an ordinary Ancestral Fiend.


    Qin Yun was an Itinerant Immortal, but he was a pinnacle Golden Immortal. Even more, he was a sword immortal!


    "I should be able to fend him off with Patriarch''s array formation, right?" Yuxiu lacked the confidence, but that was the only way he could convince himself.


    Simultaneously, he immediately sent a karmic voice transmission to Patriarch Blood Sea. "Patriarch, Qin Yun is here."


    "Qin Yun?"


    Deep in the belly of Mt. Three Blades, Patriarch Blood Sea was somewhat astonished. "He has only cultivated for a few millennia. It''s quite unlikely he knows the secret of Mt. Three Blades. Numinous Treasure does know, but this matter should be a secret."


    "Yuxiu, try your best to fend him off. If you can''t, escape," instructed Patriarch Blood Sea.


    ¡­


    "Sword Immortal Qin, halt." Yuxiu stood behind the array formation.


    Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. Most fiends committed heinous sins. The spirit-devouring lineage and the sea of blood lineage were considered fiends among fiends. By cultivating these Dharmic formulations, these two lineages were destined to be fraught with heinous sins. Those that could become Ancestral Fiends? Their sins were enough to form a sea of blood. Naturally, Qin Yun felt immense killing intent, but unfortunately, he knew that the real bodies of sea of blood lineage experts were blood seas. The figure before him was only a body created for combat.


    "Halt? Hmph!" Qin Yun grunted coldly. Without even bothering to say another word, he waved his hand.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out.


    This wisp was extremely inconspicuous, but it was very corporeal. When it stabbed into the blood-colored array formation, it left the array formation trembling. A crack even appeared.


    This left Yuxiu alarmed.


    "No good. Escape!" Yuxiu did not hesitate to transform into a blood-colored beam of light as he fled.


    "Pfft!"


    The corporeal sword beam stabbed forward once again.


    The misty second strike made the six array flags quake so much that the walls cracked. The entire blood-colored array formation collapsed as the sword beam streaked across the air and rapidly chased up to the fleeing Yuxiu. The strike easily penetrated Yuxiu''s body. In terms of speed¡­ he was far inferior to Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword!


    "Whoosh." Yuxiu''s body silently reduced to pieces. While his body was reduced to pieces, he was in disbelief. "He cracked the array without using the Qingping Sword?"


    Yuxiu''s combat body was killed!


    To cultivate a new combat body from the beginning would require a hefty price and time.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun waved his hand and retrieved the Misty Rain Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword was now a Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure and also a Merit Numinous treasure. Qin Yun had also infused the Great Dao of Heaven into his original Sword Dao. Therefore, with his improved realm, how could an ordinary Ancestral Fiend be his match?


    "Unfortunately, this strike would have less than ten percent of its strength if it was transmitted by karma. It will at best injure his blood sea." Qin Yun shook his head gently. "I wonder when these sea of blood lineage fiends will be wiped clean by experts.


    "Their survival only spells trouble for the Three Realms."


    A cold glint flashed in Qin Yun''s eyes.


    If given a chance, he wished to kill the Ancestral Fiends of the sea of blood lineage and spirit-devouring lineage the most!


    "A total of seven figures. To have Yuxiu guard the passageway, it likely means that it was a team made up of fiends. The leader is Patriarch Blood Sea?" Qin Yun guessed. Immediately, he waved his hand to grab the six array flags. After a cursory glance, he put them away. He took a look at where Yuxiu had died. "This Yuxiu did not even bring a single treasure. There''s no Cosmic Bag at all either. Was he prepared to die here on Mt. Three Blades?"


    ¡­


    "Patriarch, he cracked the array formation and destroyed my combat body. All he needed was two strikes. Furthermore, he did not even use the Qingping Sword." Yuxiu''s blood sea true body sent a karmic voice transmission to Patriarch Blood Sea.


    Patriarch Blood Sea was rapidly forging forward deep in a passageway while observing his surroundings carefully. When he heard the voice transmission, he smiled. "That Qin Yun''s strength sure rises quickly. However, it''s good that he came in. If I bump into him, I can kill him and snatch his Qingping Sword! Even if Wudang wants to save this little junior brother of hers, it is unlikely she can make it in time considering Mt. Three Blades'' environment. But now, it is of urgent importance that I find the sealed land!


    "The five of you, be careful."


    Patriarch Blood Sea instructed via voice transmission, "Qin Yun has entered. Yuxiu''s combat body has been killed. If you encounter him, try to avoid him as best as you can!"


    "Yes."


    The five subordinates that were scattered across Mt. Three Blades'' belly acknowledged the order. Although a number of them were pinnacle Ancestral Fiends, they were no match for the Qingping Sword-wielding Sword Immortal Qin Yun.

 597 Maze

    Chapter 597: Maze


    Translator: CKtalonEditor: CKtalon


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    The attack just now had caused the surrounding rock walls to shatter. However, under the might of the Mt. Three Blades''s array formation, the rock fragments on the ground silently crumbled into nothingness under Qin Yun''s gaze. As for the cracks on the rock wall, new rocks had formed and returned the walls to their original state.


    Everything was done in the space of a few breaths.


    "It was actually restored so quickly?" Qin Yun was alarmed before he gave a pensive nod. "That''s also right. The array''s usage of the Great Dao of the Earth is beyond imagination. It is extremely heavy and has a repressive feeling. Even if a portion of the rock was destroyed, the rock would quickly be restored to its original state. My Misty Rain Domain is suppressed here and I can''t even maintain my avatar. If a Skyimmortal were in this place, they would likely be so repressed that it would be difficult for them to even take a single step."


    "With the formation''s presence, Mt. Three Blades will not have the number of rocks increase or decrease even by one over millions or tens of millions of years." Qin Yun understood this point.


    And then, he turned to look at the twelve forks in front of him.


    This was the first fork in the road after the entrance, so he had to make his choice.


    Qin Yun released the Misty Rain Domain which penetrated more than a hundred feet into the stone walls. He checked the array formation''s veins that existed within the twelve forks.


    "There are so many forks in the road, but there''s no hierarchy between the array formation veins in the twelve paths. I''ll just choose one randomly." Moments after Qin Yun focused and pondered over the twelve array formation veins, he casually chose the nearest path and walked in. The passageway was clearly very long and he could even vaguely see the ''fork'' deep within. However, Qin Yun was in no hurry as he proceeded slowly ahead.


    He carefully studied and tried to understand every single vein of the array.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was at ease.


    As for the Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage, they were rather frantic, because they had encountered some trouble.


    "Swoosh." The Ancestral Fiends proceeded forward at high speeds. Soon, they came to more forks in the passageway. After a simple choice, they continued forward.


    Even though the Ancestral Fiends were being suppressed here, they continued flying forward at high speeds before arriving at the next fork.


    "A fork again?"


    "Another fork?"


    One fork after another!


    They had to constantly make choices. They had excellent memories and had an impeccable sense of direction. However, the constant forks they encountered made the place appear like a massive spiderweb¡­ It left them confused.


    "Have I been here before?"


    An Ancestral Fiend came to a halt. He stared at his surroundings in puzzlement, then closed his eyes and began to carefully recall the path he took. His expression couldn''t help but change. "Without even realizing it, I''ve ended up in this same spot?"


    ¡­


    "Why did I return to this fork? I just came here." Another Ancestral Fiend met with the same problem.


    ¡­


    "This is a maze!"


    ¡­


    "I''ll try another path."


    ¡­


    The various Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage rapidly proceeded at extremely fast speeds. However, they gradually began to lose their way within the countless forks in Mt. Three Blades. Even though they had lost their way, they remained patient. They continued randomly traversing the maze and they would memorize the route that led to any spot they passed by.


    They hoped to rely on luck to encounter the sealed land.


    "Patriarch, the insides of Mt. Three Blades are a maze. I''ve come back to my original spot six times."


    "Patriarch, this is the most ordinary of mazes, formed by the sheer number of forks. However, there are just too many forks, and they constantly split off in every direction. Some even slant up and down. Many of the routes are just too confusing. I can definitely explore the entire area given time, but I''m afraid three to five days won''t be enough."


    "Patriarch¡­"


    One by one, they reported back to Patriarch Blood Sea via a voice transmission.


    Patriarch Blood Sea frowned as he looked at the stone-walled tunnel in front of him. "A maze? We have to find the sealed land as soon as possible! The longer this drags on, the more I''m worried some unexpected development might happen.


    "Since these forks are hindering us from moving forward, I''ll destroy it."


    Patriarch Blood Sea waved his hand, and his illusory palm struck the stone passageway. The extremely resilient stone wall was instantly shattered to pieces, leaving a gap that spanned more than a thousand feet long, but this was only literally scratching the surface of the stone wall. A deep, azure light swirled through the array formation veins as the array formation began its operations. The might of Patriarch Blood Sea''s blow was diverted by the array formation with a slight ripple.


    The array vein appeared in front of his eyes, as it suffused a repressive intent with an immense pressure.


    "Indeed.


    "Every path is an array formation vein. Unless the array vein is completely broken up, there is no way to destroy the forks." Patriarch Blood Sea looked at the array formation veins which pulsed with an azure light and frowned.


    Soon, at a speed visible to the naked eye, the scattered gravel on the ground turned into nothingness, and new stone walls appeared to close the gap, restoring it to its original state without any signs of damage.


    "Is this the difference between me and the Heavenly Dao realm?" muttered Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "The five of you, pass me information about your route." Patriarch Blood Sea quickly relayed the order via a voice transmission.


    "Yes."


    The five subordinates provided the map of the routes they took through Mt. Three Blades to Patriarch Blood Sea via a karmic transmission.


    Patriarch Blood Sea combined his own experiences with the five maps to form a more detailed road map.


    "If we combine the maps of the five of them, perhaps this is where the sealed land is." Patriarch Blood Sea guessed as he continued proceeding forward.


    ******


    Although the Ancestral Fiends of the sea of blood lineage were extraordinarily composed, they were still rather frustrated within the maze.


    However, Qin Yun was extremely happy.


    "Wonderful, this is truly wonderful.


    "This fork should be the main branch." Qin Yun had a look of joy. "It''s just like a towering tree. It has the main trunk, branches, twigs, small branches and even leaves. The leaves even have tiny veins of their own.


    "I met a small vein initially, but now it''s a branch."


    Qin Yun had studied the complete array formation from the bronze token.


    He had also studied the surface of the massive array formation of Mt. Three Blades. He was now walking through the mountain, so he also had a very deep understanding of the array formation.


    He could sense that¡­


    The fork he was on was a main vein of the array formation.


    "It leads me deeper layer by layer? It''s truly amazing how the concepts of the Great Dao of Earth can be utilized." Qin Yun''s insights were constantly rising as he continued forward.


    "Why am I back in my original spot? Quick! Quick!"


    Just as Qin Yun was engrossed in one of the array veins, a beam of light rapidly flew over. It was none other than an Ancestral Fiend from the sea of blood lineage. He had frantically traversed the various routes before finally ''fortunately'' bumping into Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed him and looked over carefully.


    The beam of light came to a sudden stop, revealing himself to be a bald man in a black robe. When he saw Qin Yun, his expression could not help but turn ugly. Without any hesitation, he turned and fled.


    "The other Ancestral Fiends are seeking out a path and Patriarch instructed us to avoid Qin Yun. Why did I encounter him instead of the other Ancestral Fiends? The interior of Mt. Three Blades is like a maze. How could it be this coincidental?" The black-robed man was extremely shocked and furious as he fled frantically. "I''m just an ordinary Ancestral Fiend, I''m not his match at all."


    "The Ancestral Fiend from the sea of blood lineage, Posu? Do you think you can escape?"


    Qin Yun''s cold voice echoed in the stone passageway.


    A wisp of Misty Rain had arrived alongside him!


    The flying sword was too fast!


    In an instant!


    It streaked through the black-robed man.


    In Mt. Three Blades, the Misty Rain Sword was much faster than an ordinary Ancestral Fiend like Posu. All he felt was a sharp force sweep through his body before it completely pulverized his combat body. This might even reached his Blood Sea true body via karma. Even though the might was greatly reduced, it still injured his Blood Sea true body.


    Another Ancestral Fiend of the sea of blood lineage had his battle body destroyed!


    "This Ancestral Fiend Posu sure is more generous than the previous Yuxiu. At the very least, he has a Cosmic Bag and a supreme-grade Numinous treasure." Qin Yun took it with a smile and continued moving forward slowly to contemplate the array formation.


    ¡­


    The Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage were frantically searching for the correct path.


    As for Qin Yun, he was studying the array formation.


    Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, was also constantly moving forward.


    "Oh?"


    The vertical mark on Yang Jian''s glabella trembled slightly. He had followed his senses to come so far when Mt. Three Blades opened. After entering the mountain, the sensation only became stronger.


    "According to what I''m sensing, the source should be approximately 150 kilometers below me diagonally," Yang Jian thought to himself. He was the only one among all the people that had entered Mt. Three Blades who could sense the source.

 598 Great Dao of Earth Part 1/2

    Yang Jian looked frowningly at the fork up ahead. "Despite being able to clearly sense the source precisely, these forks are quite troublesome. They cannot be destroyed so all I can do is attempt to approach the source using the closest possible path."


    He could sense the source, but he couldn''t reach it in a straight line.


    He kept walking through the maze-like belly of Mt. Three Blades as he traversed the countless forks. This left Yang Jian somewhat helpless as well. He was momentarily without solution.


    ¡­


    Time flew by.


    While walking through the stone tunnels, Patriarch Blood Sea stopped suddenly despite moving more than a thousand feet with every step. He pricked up his long brows slightly as his eyes filled with puzzlement. "I was wrong. I guessed wrongly for this fork.


    "It appears it was my wishful thinking trying to guess the location of the sealed land according to the other Ancestral Fiends'' maps. The location of the sealed land isn''t that up for speculation! Even I¡­ can''t guess it in a short period of time.


    "I''ll still have to rely on stupid methods."


    With a wave of his hand, Patriarch Blood Sea shattered yet another thousand-foot-long stone wall, revealing an incomparably profound, array vein within.


    "If I study this array, I''m sure I''ll be able to find its core." Patriarch Blood Sea lifted his head to take a closer look. "It''s very difficult to figure out the array formation of a Heavenly Dao realm. Even though I can''t completely figure it out, it should not be hard to gain insight into part of its patterns."


    He scrutinized it.


    As he took it in, he proceeded forward¡­


    He moved at a speed much faster than Qin Yun''s.


    Of course, their goals were also different. Qin Yun was truly studying the array for cultivation while Patriarch Blood Sea was only looking for patterns amid the profoundness. As a perfected Great Dao existence¡­ he was already one of the top existences when the Chaos first developed. After so many years, his dream was to step into the higher Heavenly Dao realm.


    Thus, he could make out some patterns when faced with a Heavenly Dao realm array formation.


    In a blink of an eye, more than half a day passed in Mt. Three Blades.


    Patriarch Blood Sea''s heart filled with greater anticipation. "It will be soon. I can feel it. I''m getting even closer to the array''s core. I''ll definitely be able to find the sealed land in two hours."


    "Patriarch, I encountered Qin Yun." One of his Ancestral Fiend subordinates sent him a karmic voice transmission.


    "Qin Yun?" Patriarch Blood Sea frowned slightly. "Hanubi, try your best to escape."


    "I am. He used his flying sword against me, but I blocked it¡­ No good! His flying sword has split into three. They are forming an array formation that has trapped my 3000 sanguine shadow avatars. I can''t escape," said Hanubi via a voice transmission. "He will definitely use the Qingping Sword if he catches up to me."


    Patriarch Blood Sea frowned slightly.


    The two Ancestral Fiends from before were Yuxiu and Posu. They had their combat bodies killed by Qin Yun, which Patriarch Blood Sea thought little of. After all, the loss of a combat body could be repaired by recultivating it at some cost. Furthermore, they were ordinary Ancestral Fiends. It would not affect the sea of blood lineage much.


    However, Hanubi was one of his three pinnacle Ancestral Fiends. Furthermore, he was the founding patriarch of one of the three big clans of the sea of blood lineage. If his combat body was killed¡­ the effects would be immense! After all, there were only a limited number of pinnacle Ancestral Fiends among the fiends. Many of them presided over various areas to keep the Daoists and Buddhists in place.


    The six subordinates Patriarch Blood Sea brought were the most number of people he could bring with him without affecting the delicate situation.


    "Patriarch, my combat body has died under his Qingping Sword." Hanubi soon sent a karmic voice transmission.


    Patriarch Blood Sea frowned slightly.


    It did not surprise him.


    On this trip to Mt. Three Blades, Hanubi had not sent a single Connate Numinous treasure with his combat body. He was already at the disadvantage if he met a pinnacle Golden Immortal sword immortal. Coupled with how it was impossible to be reinforced in a short amount of time in Mt. Three Blades, Hanubi naturally did not last long against a Qingping Sword-wielding Qin Yun.


    "He used a total of thirty-three strikes to kill my combat body with the Qingping Sword," reported Hanubi via a voice transmission.


    "Thirty-three strikes to destroy your combat body? It looks like he has improved again." Patriarch Blood Sea took in the information. "Alright, Hanubi, focus on cultivation and quickly condense a new combat body."


    "Yes, Patriarch," replied Hanubi. He was already prepared to lose a combat body on his expedition to Mt. Three Blades. However, the fact that he was surpassed by a junior despite all his years of cultivation left him sighing.


    "Hmph!"


    A killing intent flashed in the Patriarch Blood Sea''s eyes. "I brought a total of six Ancestral Fiends in and three of them perished at Qin Yun''s hands one after another? Qin Yun, I''ll let this matter pass for now, but once I''m done with my important matters, I''ll definitely flush you out. When that happens, not only will Numinous Treasure''s Qingping Sword land in my hand, I''ll even take your life!"


    Following which, Patriarch Blood Sea paid no further attention as he continued proceeding forward.


    ******


    "Whoosh."


    The Qingping Sword transformed into dots of sword flashes that were densely packed but also filled with endless transformations. Hanubi failed to put up any sort of defense as he was stabbed by the countless sword flashes.


    Hanubi had six curved horns on his tall and a strong build, while his skin was like a cow''s hide. However, the Qingping Sword''s sword flashes was ultimately able to pulverize his powerful body.


    "You wouldn''t have been able to destroy my combat body without the Qingping Sword." Hanubi said indignantly before his body was decimated, his voice echoing in the stone tunnels.


    Following that, his body reduced to nothingness.


    Qin Yun beckoned his hand as the Misty Rain Sword, which had been split into the Heaven, Earth, and Man swords, flew back along with the Qingping Sword.


    "As expected of a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend. These Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage do not bring powerful treasures when they travel. All of them cultivate their bodies and focus on divine powers. It makes their bodies extremely powerful," thought Qin Yun wistfully. "I could kill Yuxiu with one strike because my realm is much higher than his. However, to kill Hanubi while our realms are about the same, it required 33 strikes of the Qingping Sword because of his resistant body."


    In fact, defeats were easy but kills were difficult during bouts between pinnacle Golden Immortals under normal circumstances.


    Qin Yun''s killing of Hanubi''s combat body also represented the deep insights he had gained in the Qingping Sword.


    "All I did was destroy his combat body. Only the day I destroy their Blood Sea will be worthy of celebration."


    Qin Yun continued studying the array.


    ¡­


    "I''ve finally arrived!"


    Patriarch Blood Sea walked out of a stone passageway and arrived in a massive circular hall. It was rather spartan and there were six tunnels that led to that spot. Patriarch Blood Sea had arrived from one of the six stone passageways.


    Embedded in the middle of the circular hall were two stone columns.


    At that moment, Patriarch Blood Sea smiled. The eyes under his long brows carefully swept the area before locking onto the two columns. Finally, he said, "Old Friend, how does it feel like to be suppressed here for so many years?" His voice resounded in the hall.


    At the moment he said that¡ª


    In another stone tunnel, Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, heard his voice. He immediately flew towards it. Having cultivated in the Eight-Nine Arcane Art, he was good at hiding his aura and even masking himself from the heavens. Patriarch Blood Sea therefore failed to discover Yang Jian who was hiding nearby.


    "It''s Patriarch Blood Sea?" Yang Jian could see Patriarch Blood Sea standing in front of the two stone columns from the stone tunnel he was in.


    Although Yang Jian was confident and the Eight-Nine Arcane Art was also great for combat, he did not dare act rashly against the infamous Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "It appears you can''t even sense the world outside? Then, let me release you. You will owe me great karma for the rescuing you." Patriarch Blood Sea smiled as he waved his hands. Immediately his two arms expanded rapidly as he grabbed the two stone columns.


    "Up!"


    The two columns were like Yin and Yang. They were being slowly uprooted at the same time.


    This process also caused the entire Mt. Three Blades'' array formation to quake!


    "Boom!" The massive array emitted beams of light. Even the external surface of Mt. Three Blades had array formation patterns glow across it. A terrifying force bore down on the land. The two columns were the array''s core so Patriarch Blood Sea was naturally able to forcibly pull them out.


    Patriarch Blood Sea revealed a look of glee.


    A terrifying aura emanated from deep underneath the hall.


    "I''m finally out."


    "We are finally out. Haha."


    "Hurry, hurry. Uproot the two columns!"


    A series of excited voices sounded.


    "Shut up, all of you!" A hefty voice bellowed from underground, immediately putting an end to the other voices.


    The angry bellow pricked up Patriarch Blood Sea''s brows.


    Even Yang Jian, who was hiding in the stone tunnel, was alarmed. The bellow brought with it a rich banal aura that left him reeling in fear. He knew that it was an existence whose strength far exceeded his.


    "Blood Sea, thank you," said the powerful voice nonchalantly. "I will naturally owe you great karma for the act of releasing me."


    "Hahaha¡­" Patriarch Blood Sea smiled as he continued uprooting the stone columns.


    ¡­


    And inside Mt. Three Blades, Qin Yun was still a great distance away from the core.


    He was still studying the array formation.


    However, when Patriarch Blood Sea pulled up the two columns, it caused a huge stir in the array formation. The array formation began to act out in full force as it emitted glaring beams of light.


    "All the array formation''s powers have been triggered?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. Following that, he was attracted by its full powers. The array formation was completely different from before. "It actually becomes this when it releases all its powers?"


    He looked in excitement with a covetous gaze. The feelings in his heart grew more intense until it finally reached an extremum.


    There was a hum in his mind.


    He was suddenly enlightened.


    His comprehension of the Great Dao of Earth had reached its limits until, finally, it underwent a qualitative change.


    A brand new pinnacle Great Dao surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind.

 599 Great Dao of Earth Part 2/2

    Qin Yun very naturally sat down cross-legged and immersed himself in his newfound insights.


    Earth¡­


    It was thick and capable of holding all things, giving rise to myriad beings. On its soil, life built their cities and kingdoms, producing countless grain. It silently nourished life and, regardless if life protected the lands or destroyed them wantonly, it silently bore its treatment.


    The complete Great Dao of Earth existed in one''s heart.


    The Great Dao of Heaven he figured out early on resonated with it.


    "Great Dao of Heaven, Great Dao of Earth."


    These two Great Dao made contact in Qin Yun''s mind and even began generating many bonds.


    Relying on the Sword Dao he figured out in the beginning, the two Great Dao also began to fuse into his Sword Dao and became a part of it. His realm raised greatly and he became extremely close to a perfected Great Dao. It could even be said that he was just short of a sliver.


    Even if other pinnacle Golden Immortals were to figure out three pinnacle Great Dao, they might not necessarily match Qin Yun.


    This was because the Sword Dao, Great Dao of Heaven, and Great Dao of Earth had perfectly fused as one. The combination of the three had undergone a qualitative change that far exceeded the sum of its parts! Even Qin Yun''s final Great Dao of Man that had reached a bottleneck joined in! Now, it was also fusing into his Sword Dao, pushing his Sword Dao asymptotically close to a perfected Great Dao.


    Back when Daoist Burning Lamp obtained the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads, he was about Qin Yun''s realm despite his high stature! He was just short of a perfected Great Dao. His strength stood high above numerous pinnacle Golden Immortals and he was able to barely cross swords with perfected Great Dao existences.


    ¡­


    In the ancient hall deep at Mt. Three Blades'' core.


    Each of Patriarch Blood Sea''s expanded palms was grabbing a stone column as he slowly raised them simultaneously. The entire Mt. Three Blades'' array formation was trembling from the stir. It made the other three Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage alarmed. Of course, they did not know that the array formation''s eruption had catalyzed Qin Yun''s Great Dao of Earth breakthrough.


    "Arise!" Patriarch Blood Sea roared loudly.


    The two stone columns were finally uprooted. With a boom, the hall''s ground immediately cracked open as figures emitting Chaos auras flew out.


    "Haha, I''m finally out."


    "After all these years, I actually managed to live to see this day."


    The figures that emitted Chaos auras were extremely excited.


    Patriarch Blood Sea also watched smilingly at this scene.


    A distance away, Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, who was concealing his aura with the Eight-Nine Arcane Art and obscuring the heavenly secrets, saw this scene. His expression changed slightly. "It''s them? They were actually sealed here?"


    ¡­


    At the instant these ancient existences escaped¡ª


    In a hall that suffused a blurry light sat a cross-legged Daoist. Beside him was a nine-headed lion who was sprawled on the ground, sleeping obediently.


    Suddenly the nine-headed lion woke up and looked in a direction.


    "You sensed it as well?"


    The Daoist smiled as he looked in the particular direction. "He has been sealed for so many years. He has finally been released! It''s just unknown if his personality has changed after being sealed for so many years."


    ¡­


    Effulgent Great World.


    A linen-clothed man who was sitting on a chair inside a wooden hut was carving a wooden sculpture. He had no special features and appeared like the most ordinary mortal.


    However, he suddenly turned his head to look toward Mt. Three Blades.


    "He has finally been released?" The man''s eyes released an unprecedented glint of sharpness as he muttered, "I have been waiting in the Effulgent Great World for far too long."


    The man got up and, with a step, he traversed the void to arrive at Mt. Three Blades.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm. In a mortal kingdom''s manor of a military general.


    The general was looking casually over the intelligence of the area that spanned 4000 kilometers, the area which he was in charge of. Suddenly, he sensed something as he looked toward Mt. Three Blades. His eyes suffused a luster as the corners of his mouth raised slightly. "Interesting. Very interesting. With him out, the Dao Ancestor and Fiend Ancestor will soon have to leave the Three Realms. Everything will become more interesting."


    "The God King from the past, a God King who had the chance of being the first to rule over the Three Realms. What would you choose to do?" The general''s eyes were filled with anticipation. "The Three Realms has been boring for too long."


    ¡­


    Ancestral Dragon Great World.


    An ancient slumbering existence slowly opened his eyes as he looked toward the Effulgent Great World. His dragon whiskers failed as he chuckled softly, "Old Friend, you are finally out?" This was the most ancient and massive dragon in the Three Realms. He was also the originating ancestor of the dragons, giving him the name of Ancestral Dragon. He was an extremely powerful Chaos Godfiend before the Chaos developed.


    ¡­


    In the Chaos beyond the Three Realms, there was a cave abode.


    A stout figure emitting golden light sat cross-legged there. At that moment, he had opened his eyes and looked toward the Three Realms. "You actually lived to the day of your escape?"


    ******


    Ancient existences all over the Three Realms were alarmed. Even if they had had entered prolonged seclusion or stopped meddling with the affairs of the world, these ancient existences were all staring intently at Mt. Three Blades.


    It was because the sealed existence had once caused quite a stir. In that era, his standing was supreme.


    They wished to know¡­


    What would happen next?


    ¡­


    And on Mt. Three Blades.


    Qin Yun and that existence had no ties, so there was no karma linking them. Therefore, he did not sense it.


    He continued being immersed in his insights as he pushed his Sword Dao toward perfection. He even had thoughts of taking this opportunity to break through the Great Dao of Man''s bottleneck.


    Apart from him, the rest were all feeling unease.


    "The three of you are to leave immediately." Patriarch Blood Sea sent a voice transmission to his three subordinates.


    "Yes."


    The three Ancestral Fiends from the sea of blood lineage immediately retreated. Retreating was much faster than scouting. Referencing the paths they already took, all they needed was to find the closest path that led back to the entrance.


    And in the ancient hall, as Patriarch Blood Sea issued the order to his subordinates, he watched the figures that came out with a smile.


    These existences were very famous a long time ago.


    "I''m finally out." It was a man with disheveled red hair. He stood there and scanned the area as though he was the most dazzling existence in the world. He was even more dazzling and overbearing than the sun.


    "Congratulations, God King," the figures that suffused Chaos auras said obediently.


    However, some of the figures also looked at the man with disheveled red hair with fear and trepidation. They began to silently distance themselves away from him in retreat. Clearly, they were not from the same faction.


    "God King, they have begun escaping."


    "God King, do we kill them?" asked a Chaos Godfiend immediately.


    "There''s no need." The red-haired man swept his faze across the fleeing figures.


    Patriarch Blood Sea smiled as he said, "Congratulations, Brother Zhurong. You sure are broadminded. You are even sparing Xiangliu and company."


    The red-haired man looked at Patriarch Blood Sea and smiled faintly. "It''s all thanks to you, Blood Sea. If not, I don''t know when I would have been released."


    This existence who had escaped was none other than the leader of the strongest faction during the Chaos Godfiend war the moment the Chaos developed, God King Zhurong. Back then, the battle between the two strongest Chaos Godfiends, God King Zhurong and God King Gonggong, was the most influential battle in the entire Three Realms ever since Pangu parted the heaven from earth. The effects were also infinitely far-reaching.


    In that battle, Gonggong had slammed in Mt. Buzhou, causing it to crumble. It was as though the world itself was collapsing. Even though Goddess N¨¹wa mended the heavens later, there were still tremendous and everlasting changes to the Three Realms as a result of that event.Xiangliu is a nine-headed snake monster that appears in Chinese mythology.

 600 Wu Zhiqi

    "Before the ancient demon Heavenly Courts, just when the Chaos first developed, the demons were also very weak." Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian, stealthily watched this scene as he held his breath. "Back then, the Chaos Godfiends ruled over the Three Realms. The strongest among them were Zhurong and Gonggong. Gonggong was the one who smashed through Mt. Buzhou. Zhurong had even defeated Gonggong¡­ Legends say that the both of them had one foot into the Heavenly Dao realm."


    "Mt. Three Blades had been sealing this bunch of Chaos Godfiends?" Many thoughts came to Yang Jian''s mind. Following that, he took another furtive look at the famous God King Zhurong. "The source that I sensed came from God King Zhurong. No matter what treasure it is, it''s not something I can take for myself.


    "I have to leave now, if not there will not be another opportunity."


    Without any hesitation, Yang Jian carefully retreated.


    ¡­


    And inside the ancient hall at Mt. Three Blades'' core.


    Zhurong and his Chaos Godfiend subordinates made up one party. The other party was naturally Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Blood Sea, tell me. I owe you huge karma since you released me." Zhurong smiled as he calmly looked at Patriarch Blood Sea. "What help do you need from me?"


    Patriarch Blood Sea smiled. "Brother Zhurong, you do not owe me. Instead, you owe the Fiend Ancestor. I rescued you under Fiend Ancestor''s orders."


    "I owe the Fiend Ancestor? Who is he?"


    Zhurong frowned slightly when he heard the name, feeling somewhat suspicious. He did an inference and exclaimed, "So the Fiend Ancestor is Black Lotus¡­ He has actually reached the Heavenly Dao realm? How many in the Three Realms have reached the Heavenly Dao realm at present?"


    "That is no secret. I believe you will know simply from doing an inference, Brother Zhurong," said Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Back when I ruled over the Three Realms, the Chaos had only recently developed." Zhurong did a simple inference before learning of past and recent developments. He could not help but shake his head and sigh. "We wanted to dominate the Three Realms in order to rule over it. There were also Elderly Lord, Primordial Beginning, and company who secluded themselves in cultivation to probe the various schools of thought. All of them wished to take their own paths.


    "In that battle, Gonggong stirred big trouble when he slammed through the heavenly column. It invited a cataclysmic event onto the Three Realms. Back then, N¨¹wa was suddenly enlightened, reaching the Heavenly Dao realm and managed to mend the sky to save the Three Realms," said Zhurong. "Although N¨¹wa was stronger than all of us, I didn''t feel aggrieved about it. Back then, only N¨¹wa had reached the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Yet in a blink of an eye, there are six at the Heavenly Dao realm."


    Zhurong sighed. "Instead, I remain shunned outside that door."


    Patriarch Blood Sea smiled. "Isn''t it the same for me? However, Brother Zhurong, you are still much stronger than us all."


    "What does Black Lotus want from me?" said Zhurong with a chuckle. "Although it was thanks to you fiends that I was able to escape, it''s ultimately because N¨¹wa was willing to release me. She said back then that sealing us was a punishment. She said that once the time was up, she would release the three Seal Presiding Tokens to the mortal world of the Three Realms. If the three Seal Presiding Tokens could be gathered, the array would be opened. The fact that they could be gathered means the Heavenly Dao has permitted my release. Therefore, the root reason is because N¨¹wa had approved of it. Without the release of the Seal Presiding Tokens, none of you would have been able to enter."


    "Yes, yes," said Patriarch Blood Sea with a faint smile. "N¨¹wa approved of it, and all we did was give it a nudge. Fiend Ancestor wishes to meet you."


    "I need to familiarize myself with the Three Realms," said Zhurong. "I''ll chat with him again in a thousand years."


    Patriarch Blood Sea hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Alright."


    Huge karma.


    Did it matter? If one was bent on raising one''s strength, one naturally had to sever any outstanding karmic issues, or karma would affect their cultivation.


    But if a breakthrough in strength seemed impossible, an existence like Zhurong could ignore the huge karma that bound him! So what if he owed someone karma? So what if decorum was lost?


    As for cultivation?


    Patriarch Blood Sea knew very well that Zhurong, Gonggong, and three others came from illustrious backgrounds. They were only second to Pangu who had split the heaven from the earth. Therefore, they were extremely formidable. Their births gave them remarkable strength but it bound them. Among the five, Gonggong was dead. The other four were still alive, in seclusion, or lording over an area. However, none of them had attained the Heavenly Dao realm.


    ******


    "Zhurong actually chose not pursue us?"


    "As expected of God King Zhurong who had a chance of ruling over the Three Realms."


    The group of Chaos Godfiends, who had Xiangliu has their leader, looked back through a stone-walled tunnel and heaved a sigh of relief. Most of them were Gonggong''s subordinates back then and were enemies that opposed Zhurong.


    They met with a fork up ahead, and so these Chaos Godfiends began separating.


    "Brother Xiangliu, let''s part here."


    "We shall part here."


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, I bid you farewell."


    They soon separated and formed nine groups and proceeded down the different paths they chose.


    Although they were all Gonggong''s subordinates in the past, Gonggong was now dead. No one acknowledged the other to be their superior. Even the best combat general under Gonggong, Xiangliu, was unable to unite the masses. Therefore, it was natural for the former troops to splinter into different divisions.


    ¡­


    "I''m finally out. Goddess N¨¹wa was true to her word. She did not forever seal us." Three Chaos Godfiends traveled alongside each other as they happily chatted.


    A gray-furred monkey with a protruded mouth said with a laugh, "After holding back for so long, I am definitely going to have a good time once I''m out."


    "Treasure-seeking Rat, you have to find us good wine. I haven''t had wine in a long time." A furry ape draped in armor bared his teeth in a grin.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, don''t worry. Don''t you know the capabilities of Treasure-seeking Rat? He can find the best wine in the Three Realms," said a single-horned Godfiend to the side with a laugh. "Treasure-seeking Rat, you are good at inferring the heavenly secrets. Once we are out, quickly search for beautiful women. I haven''t had a taste of that in a very long time."


    "Don''t worry, leave it to me." The gray-furred Godfiend chuckled.


    The three of them proceeded through a fork without stopping.


    "Why are we going in circles?" The furry ape, Wu Zhiqi frowned. He had a white-furred head and green furred body. His ferocious golden eyes swept towards the gray-furred Godfiend. "Treasure-seeking Rat, quickly find us a way out."


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, don''t be anxious. This is a sealing array set up by Goddess N¨¹wa. These veins were formed naturally which is why it''s so complicated. Although I''m good at inferring the heavenly secrets, I''m still unable to crack Goddess N¨¹wa''s array," said the gray-furred Godfiend with a smile. "But don''t worry. We would definitely leave this place. We will just spend a little more time at worst."


    "Oh?" The gray-furred Godfiend''s pupils contracted suddenly as he looked ahead. "It seems there''s a cultivator up ahead. If I did not sense it wrong, it''s likely an Itinerant Immortal."


    "An Itinerant Immortal?"


    Wu Zhiqi exclaimed, "Before we were sealed, the Chaos Godfiends had researched many cultivation schools of thought. There was a branch among the Daoists who attempted the path of the Itinerant Immortal¡­ But it seems the Itinerant Immortals experience a tribulation every thousand years, with each tribulation more powerful than the last. Back then, the Three Realms had quickly abandoned this school of thought, right?"


    "Treasure-seeking Rat, did you make a mistake?" asked the single-horned Godfiend.


    "Would my eyes make a mistake?" said the gray-furred Godfiend confidently. "Although he can hide his aura well, he is definitely an Itinerant Immortal. Also, I can see more!"


    Wu Zhiqi and the single-horned Godfiend looked at him.


    Treasure-seeking Rat chuckled weirdly and said, "I discovered huge treasures on him. My nose can smell¡­ a thick treasure aura on him. He probably has more than even you, Brother Wu Zhiqi!"


    "More than me?" Wu Zhiqi''s golden eyes lit up. "How strong is he?"


    "I can tell that he''s an Itinerant Immortal and I can tell that his Dharmic powers are at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level," said Treasure-seeking Rat confidently.


    "Pinnacle Golden Immortal?" Wu Zhiqi scoffed. "That''s quite impressive strength, but Itinerant Immortals who do not cultivate their bodies have very frail bodies. They perish with a simple squeeze."


    Wu Zhiqi was one of the vanguard generals under Gonggong back then.


    "Let''s secretly go over and kill him," said Wu Zhiqi with a strange chuckle as he sent a voice transmission. "As an Itinerant Immortal, he won''t survive the Heavenly Tribulations anyway. Let''s just send him off to Samsara ahead of time. I''ll take half the treasures we obtain. The rest can be split by the both of you equally."


    "Yea." The single-horned Godfiend was also a little excited.


    The gray-furred Godfiend laughed strangely as well. However, he clearly retreated to the back. He was the weakest, but he was very good at treasure seeking and hiding from the heavenly secrets. Therefore, Wu Zhiqi had always protected him.


    The trio silently proceeded.


    Soon, they saw their target.


    Far away in the tunnel was a youth sitting cross-legged in midair. There was a blob of pure aura swishing above his head while a tainted aura sank beneath him.


    "A Daoist Itinerant Immortal," scoffed the single-horned Godfiend with a voice transmission. "Daoists are a school of thought that recluse themselves, while Itinerant Immortals are a dead end! Brother Wu Zhiqi, I''ll attack first and destroy his Essence Soul by catching him by surprise."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was indeed cultivating.


    He was aloof from all worldly things as various insights surfaced in his mind.


    Suddenly, the Intrinsic Flying Sword which was being nurtured in his body trembled as a warning. Similarly, the Qingping Sword in his sleeve trembled to warn him.


    "The flying swords are warning me? It seems they have sensed animosity?" Qin Yun suddenly turned alert.

 601 Daoist Itinerant Immortals Migh

    Although Qin Yun became alert, he continued sitting cross-legged on the surface. Aside from the Qingping Sword in his sleeve, his Intrinsic Flying Sword was ready to be released at any moment.


    "I just broke through and my strength is extremely close to that of the perfected Great Dao. I''m just short of a sliver and even have the Misty Rain Sword and Qingping Sword on hand¡­ I happen to be seeking an opponent to try out my newfound strength." The Qingping Sword was now filled with valor. Compared to the time when he infiltrated the fiendish dominion to slay Ancestral Fiend Moxiu, his realm had increased tremendously. It gave him a lot more confidence.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword has warned me. According to the flying sword''s senses, there are three unfamiliar opponents. Who would they be?" Qin Yun was somewhat puzzled. "Did more experts enter after I entered Mt. Three Blades?"


    ¡­


    Wu Zhiqi and the single-horned Godfiend took the front while the gray-furred Godfiend took the rear. All of them saw the Daoist Itinerant Immortal sitting cross-legged.


    "Guixun, attack." Wu Zhiqi sent a voice transmission. He knew the strengths of his two companions very well. Treasure-seeking Rat was good at non-combat techniques such as seeking treasure and inferring the heavenly secrets. In terms of strength, he was only at the ordinary mighty figure level. As for the single-horned Godfiend, Guixun, he was a lot stronger. He was most adept at dealing sneak attacks in a most unpredictable manner.


    In terms of sneak attacks and assassinations, he was ranked among the best of pinnacle mighty figures. He was only ordinary when it came to frontal assaults, so he followed Wu Zhiqi.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, haha. Leave it to me. I''ll squash him to death with a single claw of mine." Guixun was extremely confident.


    "Kill!"


    He swooshed forward silently and closed in on Qin Yun without producing so much as a stir.


    In the meantime, he also waved his arm, turning it into smoke. Only the green claw appeared silently in front of Qin Yun instantaneously. Qin Yun so happened to open his eyes at that exact moment. It was only due to the numerous suppressions in Mt. Three Blades that the claw''s speed was greatly reduced. Outside, it would have easily penetrated the void and stabbed straight into the enemy''s body.


    Of course, Qin Yun would have discovered the enemy from a great distance away outside. He would not have allowed them to come this close.


    When Qin Yun opened his eyes, he saw a green claw which was taller than a person appear in front of him. The claw was mottled and resembled a wild beast''s claws, but it exuded the aura of Chaos. Instantly, it attacked with an indomitable force, and the surrounding void was covered with a dark halo. The dark halo was, in fact, the near-range collapse of the void.


    Guixun had a look of anticipation in his eyes. He was expecting to see the Daoist Itinerant Immortal unwittingly get squashed by his claw.


    "Swoosh!"


    Qin Yun remained in his spot as he sat cross-legged. All he did was raise his hand and send out a wisp of misty rain.


    The wisp of misty rain was gorgeous. It flew out without causing much of a stir like a gentle breeze. It simply struck the claw with what seemed to be the utmost gentleness.


    But when the collision really took place!


    The Misty Rain Sword released its true might! Its might had been converged to the extremum and was now released completely!


    "Boom!" The intense clash released a humming and ear-piercing boom. The terrifying collision released blasts that swept through the stone walls, causing them to crumble.


    The instant the violent collision happened, the green claw that was extremely mighty was forcibly repressed and sent flying back. The Misty Rain Sword flashed and slashed at Guixun''s body.


    "What?" Guixun was alarmed. He was extremely confident when it came to sneak attacks; yet, he was completely repelled? Furthermore, the Misty Rain Sword flash which was more terrifying than his killer blow was already right in front of him?


    The Misty Rain Sword flash felt cold and lonely.


    It sent a chill down Guixun''s back.


    He sensed the terrifying sharpness contained within the sword flash!


    He did not hesitate to transform into a fog as the sword flash slashed through his incorporeal body. The endless sword intent it contained constantly slew every bit of energy the incorporeal body had. This caused Guixun''s incorporeal body to rapidly retreat as he exclaimed for help, "Brother Wu Zhiqi, save me!"


    Not only was he alarmed.


    Even Wu Zhiqi and Treasure-seeking Rat behind him were confounded. A seemingly easy to deal with Daoist Itinerant Immortal had overwhelmed a Chaos Godfiend with one strike? Furthermore, it was an utter annihilation!


    "Boom!" Although alarmed, Wu Zhiqi quickly joined in the fray.


    He had a black chain wound around his body. It was a long chain that he grabbed and lashed out. As it was released, it expanded immediately and tore open the void. Its might was clearly more oppressive than Guixun''s sneak attack. Of course, Wu Zhiqi was adept at frontal assaults and not sneak attacks.


    This chain collided with the Misty Rain Sword in midair.


    Following a loud bang, the Misty Rain Sword slowed down as well. The chain was sent retreating from the collision. As for Godfiend, he immediately escaped to a spot behind Wu Zhiqi. Only then did his fog-like body turn corporeal. His face was pale as there were gnarly wounds all over his body that were slowly healing.


    "This Daoist Itinerant Immortal is too powerful. He heavily injured me with one strike. He will likely be able to kill me with three," said Guixun immediately.


    Treasure-seeking Rat retreated further.


    "Whoosh."


    Having paused for a moment, the Misty Rain Sword transformed into three flying swords. They separated and instantly surrounded Wu Zhiqi and his two companions.


    Immediately, a blurry Misty Rain Array trapped the three Chaos Godfiends.


    Wu Zhiqi narrowed his eyes and looked fiercely at Qin Yun with his golden eyes, sending a voice transmission, "Treasure-seeking Rat, are you sure that he''s only a Daoist Itinerant Immortal at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level?"


    "Absolutely," said the gray-furred Godfiend immediately. He was already regretting his actions. He had been blinded by the treasure aura on Qin Yun and had never expected a Daoist Itinerant Immortal to be that powerful.


    "Could it be that after all these years, Daoist Itinerant Immortals are this powerful?" Wu Zhiqi found it unbelievable.


    "The three of you?"


    Qin Yun got up and walked over as he looked at the three Chaos Godfiends in the Misty Rain Array. From Wu Zhiqi''s appearance, with the chain binding his body, his green fur and white-furred head, golden eyes, and the Connate Numinous treasure chain weapon¡­ he easily determined his identity.


    After all, Green Touring Palace had information regarding Chaos Godfiends.


    "Wu Zhiqi, Guixun, and Treasure-seeking Rat? The three of you are actually still alive?" commented Qin Yun.


    "Haha, it seems the Three Realms still remembers us after all these years." Wu Zhiqi laughed oddly as he swept his eyes across the blurry Misty Rain Array. "Punk, you sure are bold to use a sword array to deal with the three of us. You plan on fighting the three of us alone?"


    "Wu Zhiqi."


    Qin Yun sneered. "Back when God King Gonggong stirred the flood and wreaked havoc across the Three Realms, you, Wu Zhiqi, were the one who performed many of the meritorious deeds. I never expected that with God King Gonggong dead, minions like you are still alive. Wu Zhiqi¡­ your foul reputation is still remembered by the Three Realms even after all these years. The sins on the three of your are stunningly rich, especially Wu Zhiqi. Your body is constantly being burned by Negative Karma Fire."


    "Negative Karma Fire? The burning is quite comfortable." Wu Zhiqi was rather smug. "We are Chaos Godfiends, the original rulers of the Three Realms. The Three Realms were originally our fief, so any slaughtering was within our privilege. Is there anything wrong with that? As for the Heavenly Dao? What crap does it matter? God King Gonggong struck it and the heavens nearly collapsed. If not for Goddess N¨¹wa, the Three Realms might have been destroyed. Even if the Three Realms were destroyed, we would still live well in the Chaos!"


    "Do you know that Chaos Godfiends these days keep a much lower profile?" asked Qin Yun.


    Wu Zhiqi revealed a puzzled look. A much lower profile?


    In his memories, Chaos Godfiends ruled over the Three Realms. Wars were engaged between Chaos Godfiends that would rend the world asunder.


    There was no race in the Three Realms which could vie for supremacy against the Chaos Godfiends.


    "Now, humans are the rulers of the Three Realms," said Qin Yun coldly. Although existences like the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor had immense power, their real bodies were unable to enter Great or Small Worlds. In these worlds¡­ it was true that humans ruled over them. Even the demons were secondary.


    "Humans?" Wu Zhiqi and company exchanged looks.


    "Where did humans appear from?" asked Wu Zhiqi, puzzled.


    "Don''t know. Never heard of them." Guixun shook his head as well.


    Wu Zhiqi smiled nastily. "We will know once we are out. Let me crack this puny array formation first!"


    With that said, he kicked.


    Boom!


    His toes contained immense power as they struck the blurry Misty Rain Array, but it only shook gently and withstood the blow. In response, the array''s Sword Qi returned the blow and caused Wu Zhiqi''s toes to be sliced open, splattering his blood.


    "What array formation is this?" Wu Zhiqi was somewhat alarmed.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, can you crack the array?" Guixun asked. By the side, Treasure-seeking Rat had turned flustered as well. He could not help but look at the Daoist Itinerant Immortal outside the array.


    Qin Yun looked in. "I recently had a breakthrough in strength. This Misty Rain Array has also undergone even more changes. I can take this opportunity to test its strength. I''m guessing that the three of you will be reduced to ashes in less than an hour."

 602 Qin Yuns Misty Rain Array

    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    Qin Yun conjured the Misty Rain Array with a mere thought. In an instant, the blurry Misty Rain Array produced dense and minute Sword Qi which blew over like a breeze and enveloped Wu Zhiqi, Guixun, and Treasure-seeking Rat in the form of a fog. The trio did not dare lower their guard as the black chain on Wu Zhiqi''s body flew and circled his body once in a bid to sever all the Sword Qi. However, the dense Sword Qi easily broke through the black chain''s defences in an ethereal manner before penetrating Wu Zhiqi''s body.


    The single-horned Godfiend, Guixun, emitted a blinding halo from his robes.


    As for Treasure-seeking Rat, he released a Connate Numinous treasure bangle to protect his body.


    However, regardless of the means he employed, the Sword Qi easily seeped into his body as though it faced no obstacles.


    There was no way to defend against the attack.


    "This is the first refined move of my Misty Rain Array. I''ve given it the name, Spring Wind Drizzle," said Qin Yun from outside the array. This was a move that was a natural result of fully comprehending the two Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, with his Sword Dao completely in control of space between the Heaven and Earth. It also combined the insights he had gained from his long research of the Immortal Vanquishing Sword Array. It could silently penetrate space and enter living bodies. Although it was weak, it was omnipresent and difficult to defend against.


    The Immortal Vanquishing Array was considered to be the number one killing array of the Three Realms.


    Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array had indeed drawn on many of the charms the Immortal Vanquishing Array had, and also had the killing array''s vibes.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, I''m feeling terrible." Treasure-seeking Rat felt every bone and muscle in his body itching. Although the minute Sword Qi were weak, they were constantly eating away at his body. Blood was already seeping out of his mouth and nostrils. "I probably won''t last more than five minutes."


    "Treasure-seeking Rat." Wu Zhiqi''s expression changed slightly. He had the strongest body and was fully capable of withstanding the erosive force. However, his two companions had much weaker bodies. They were unable to remain unperturbed by Qin Yun''s attack.


    "I''m slightly better. If it''s just this move, I can still last an hour," said Guixun with a nasty expression. "However, he did just mentioned that this is the first refined move of his array formation. He definitely has a second or third move after this."


    When Wu Zhiqi heard this, he glowered at Qin Yun and bellowed angrily, "Do you think an Itinerant Immortal like you can use this crappy array to trap me? Begone!"


    Followed by a furious bellow, Wu Zhiqi''s muscular arms flailed and produced a black chain that streaked through the void, ripping its surroundings apart with its trajectory and lashing at the Misty Rain Array. However, the Misty Rain Array merely trembled as it continued operating as per usual.


    "Crack, damn it!" Wu Zhiqi''s body phased away and reappeared as a three-headed and six-armed behemoth. The black chain had been transformed as well. Although it was still wrapped around his body, Wu Zhiqi''s every hand was holding onto an end of the chain. Instantly, six black chains seemed to dance like snakes as they lashed out with formidable might.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!"


    The relentless barrage of attacks would have reduced a five-thousand-kilometer tall mountain to dust, but the six black chains'' strikes only caused the blurry Misty Rain Array to shake gently.


    This scene left Wu Zhiqi''s heart palpitating.


    "You can forget about cracking this array formation of mine even with stronger strikes," said Qin Yun nonchalantly; his tone filled with confidence.


    His Sword Dao was split into Heaven, Earth, and Man. It was best at sealing anything between the Heaven and Earth to begin with! Especially after he gained insights to the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, his Misty Rain Array had turned even more mystical! Furthermore, the array formation was powered by three flying swords¡ªa manifestation of his Intrinsic Flying Sword. It was at present Qin Yun''s strongest defensive and sealing means.


    Before he entered Mt. Three Blades, the Qingping Sword''s defensive moves were considered more brilliant, but now, with him having had an epiphany with the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, his Misty Rain Array''s defensive and sealing capabilities were better.


    This was because Qin Yun''s realm was only short of a perfected Great Dao at the moment. Furthermore, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had manifested as three, making it naturally poised to set up an array.


    "Begone!"


    Wu Zhiqi turned deranged as golden light suffused his body. The six chains flailed around as though they could destroy everything, but they failed to even perturb the Misty Rain Array.


    Qin Yun did not dare make any bold claims. Although his sword array was far inferior to the best killing array in the Three Realms, the Immortal Vanquishing Array, the three swords originated from the same source. It was already perfect without an array chart. Furthermore, it was an Intrinsic Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure and also a Merit Numinous treasure. At the very least, his Misty Rain Array was definitely ranked in the top three of array formations among pinnacle Golden Immortals.


    Of course, the best array formation among pinnacle Golden Immortals was the massive array set up by his three Senior Sisters from Green Touring Palace.


    However, that was set up by the three Senior Sisters combined efforts, while Qin Yun powered his by himself.


    "How is it possible? How is it possible¡­" Wu Zhiqi stopped as his eyes were filled with disbelief. The golden halo that suffused his body also converged. "How can a Daoist Itinerant Immortal have such a powerful array formation? Have I been trapped for too long that the experts outside far exceed us?"


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi." Guixun and Treasure-seeking Rat were already reeling in anxiety.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, even you can''t crack it?" Treasure-seeking Rat''s nostrils and mouth were filled with blood. He looked panic-stricken.


    "I can''t."


    Wu Zhiqi shook his head. "I can''t even quake it. Even if I''m 100% stronger, I still wouldn''t crack it open."


    Treasure-seeking Rat and Guixun''s expressions changed, turning even nastier.


    "Treasure-seeking Rat, it''s all your fault. It was you who said that he has treasures on him and urged us to attack him," said Guixun angrily.


    "The three of us agreed to attack him. I also mentioned that he was a Daoist Itinerant Immortal at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level," growled Treasure-seeking Rat softly. "The two of you have always been the ones delivering the attacks. Faced with an enemy you can''t beat, I''m now the first one to perish. Yet, you are blaming me? Guixun, didn''t you say you were good at sneak attacks? That you could squish to death that Daoist Itinerant Immortal with one claw? Clearly your sneak attacks are still greatly lacking. You were discovered by him early on."


    The two of them were also anxious and furious.


    After being imprisoned for so long, the first thing they faced after escaping was a life-threatening calamity? Guixun and Treasure-seeking Rat were reeling in despair.


    "Pu! Pu¡­" Treasure-seeking Rat''s body began seeping out blood as he laughed tragically, "I never expected that Goddess N¨¹wa would finally give us a chance to live, only for me to die just moments after escaping the seal."


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi," said Guixun immediately. "Quickly seek help. Get Xiangliu to save us. He can definitely rescue us with his strength."


    Xiangliu was the undisputed number one general under God King Gonggong back then. Wu Zhiqi also admitted that Xiangliu was stronger than him.


    "Seek Xiangliu''s help?" Wu Zhiqi hesitated.


    He was extremely prideful deep down. He was unimpressed with anyone except Gonggong. As for this Daoist Itinerant Immortal''s array formation? Although he could not crack it, the dense Sword Qi were unable to injure him at all. He had the patience to play the waiting game.


    "Brother!" Guixun urged in panic. "If you make the request, Xiangliu will definitely do it on your account."


    "The countless forks make this place like a maze. Even if Xiangliu comes to save us, I wouldn''t be able to wait till then," muttered Treasure-seeking Rat as his breathing began weakening. "What my elder brother said was right. I should shun greed while seeking treasures, if not I would one day succumb to my greed. It has indeed happened¡­ Greed is truly my downfall."


    Treasure-seeking Rat''s aura dissipated completely as his body pulverized, leaving only his artifacts behind. After having sought treasure for so many years, his treasures remained, but his life was gone.


    Although the first move of Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array, Spring Wind Drizzle, appeared gentle, it was, in fact, capable of destruction at the deepest levels.


    Even Chaos Godfiend Treasure-seeking Rat had succumbed to this!


    "Brother, are we not seeking help? Are you going to just watch me die?" Guixun yelled in a fluster. "Fine, I''ll seek Xiangliu''s help myself."


    Guixun was actually under Wu Zhiqi. Under normal circumstances, it was not right for him to skip the chain of command to seek Xiangliu''s help!


    But faced with the threat of death¡­


    Wu Zhiqi was still hesitating, but Guixun could not be bothered. He immediately sent a karmic voice transmission.


    "General Xiangliu, I''m Guixun. Treasure-seeking Rat and I left with Brother Wu Zhiqi but bumped into a Daoist Itinerant Immortal. He''s at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, but he was able to set up an extremely powerful sword array to trap the three of us. Treasure-seeking Rat is already dead and I can''t last much longer. Please save us."


    Wu Zhiqi''s ferocious golden pupils watched without a word.


    "The first refined move is indeed weaker," said Qin Yun as he accessed the situation with a nod. He was also only testing out the Misty Rain Array. After all, how often would he get a chance to get powerful opponents to let him test out his attacks until their deaths?


    "It can only kill a Chaos Godfiend at the ordinary mighty figure level in a short period of time. It poses no threat to you, Wu Zhiqi. But I said that you wouldn''t last more than an hour. I''ll let you try the stronger second refinement move. I''ve also given it a name, Wind Cloud Mirage!"


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    The interior of the Misty Rain Array changed again.


    The minute Sword Qi that was gentle like a spring breeze continued blowing in every direction, but countless Sword Qi began to condense as a cloud above Wu Zhiqi and Guixun. They suffused a pure aura and, beneath their feet, countless Sword Qi condensed into a cloud that suffused tainted aura.


    The pure and tainted clouds spun as they slowly closed in. When the Sword Qi crossed each other, they relentlessly slashed at Wu Zhiqi and Guixun.


    The wind inside was penetrating their bodies, while the pure and tainted clouds outside were lacerating their bodies.


    The two combined was truly like a mirage of wind and cloud. It was a higher level move of the Misty Rain Array, and its prowess had greatly increased as well.

 603 Qin Yun and Yang Jian

    "No good! This array formation is too powerful. Just as he said, I might not even be able to last an hour. Am I really going to die in this array?" Wu Zhiqi revealed a look of horror. His body not only began to suffer damage when the Misty Rain Array increased in strength, wounds began to rupture under his green fur even as they healed.


    "Brother Wu Zhiqi, I probably won''t last five minutes!" Guixun yelled frantically. "Think of a solution!"


    "I''m trying!" Wu Zhiqi snapped back nastily. Following that, he threw out the black chain which was coiled around him and Guixun. Its constant spinning formed an independent space that insulated them from the outside. However, the Misty Rain Array''s might was just too strong. The pure and tainted clouds tore through space under its repeated assaults. All the black chain could do was hold back a portion of the Sword Qi, failing to stop more than half of the Sword Qi.


    "This still won''t do." Wu Zhiqi''s eyes were filled with a ferocious glint.


    Previously, he had not felt he was in danger of death and so managed to remain calm and composed.


    Even though he had attempted to crack the array for the sake of his subordinate, Treasure-seeking Rat, he had only delivered ordinary combat attacks. He did not use the means which he reserved to protect his life.


    "I can''t hold back!" Wu Zhiqi took out a scroll from and unfurled it. Immediately, a earthly-yellow beam emitted from it, producing a protective region that spanned tens of feet.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. "My Misty Rain Array''s internal and external attacks have all been blocked? That scroll''s aura¡­ is Goddess Houtu''s?"


    "This was bestowed to me by Her Majesty back when I was her subordinate." Wu Zhiqi begrudgingly watched as the powers in the scroll slowly drained. In his early days, he had been a subordinate of Goddess Houtu. Later, he became indignant about leading quiet days. The intractable and violent nature he had made him join God King Gonggong. Under Gonggong, he was able to fully express his ruthless nature as he wreaked havoc on the Three Realms. It resulted in him being tainted with grievous sins and also gave him his infamy. Even after so much time had passed, his infamy remained in the Three Realms. Negative Karma Fire burned at him all day, but a powerful Chaos Godfiend like him thought nothing of it.


    "Try out the third transformation of the Misty Rain Array. However, this third transformation has not been fully perfected," said Qin Yun.


    "Array change."


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    The Misty Rain Array changed once again.


    The Sword Qi within the array instantly turned a hundred times more violent. Darkness ensued and within it, Wu Zhiqi and Guixun had changes in expression.


    "No good. These Sword Qi appear to be a lot more aggressive, but the array formation''s might has only been raised by about 80%." Wu Zhiqi observed the speed at which the scroll''s energy was draining away. "This scroll can likely last ten minutes."


    "This third change has not been perfected," thought Qin Yun. "For this refinement move I drew inspiration from the Immortal Vanquishing Array''s Return to Chaos. My Sword Dao attempts to replicate the concept of a return to Chaos by controlling the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, but my Great Dao of Man has not been completed. Although I''m just short of a sliver, the difference in strength is like night and day. Since I can''t balance the three Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, the third change''s might is limited."


    "Boom!"


    The Sword Qi inside the Misty Rain Array raged in complete darkness.


    The third refinement that wore down the enemy had been given a name by Qin Yun as well. It was ''A Swath of Emptiness Between the Heaven and Earth.'' Once the array was activated, the array''s interior would be flooded with white light in true purity! There would not even be a speck left of the enemy!


    Of course, it was still lacking greatly at present.


    "Brother Xiangliu, please rescue me." Wu Zhiqi finally gave up his obstinance and sought help with a karmic voice transmission.


    ¡­


    "Hahaha, even this Wu Zhiqi has sought my help personally." In another stone tunnel, Xiangliu was advancing rapidly forward with his five Chaos Godfiend subordinates. Xiangliu was laughing quite happily.


    "Brother Xiangliu, Wu Zhiqi has already sought your help. Could the Daoist Itinerant Immortal be too powerful, an existence at the perfected Great Dao realm?" His subordinate was somewhat worried. Wu Zhiqi was one of the famous pinnacle Chaos Godfiends and his body was rather strong; yet, he was pleading for help?


    "Impossible," Xiangliu said with a laugh. "Although Treasure-seeking Rat is dead, he had sharp eyes. Since he mentioned that their opponent is an Itinerant Immortal at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, it''s likely true. Besides, if a perfected Great Dao existence were to cast an array to refine them away, why would they have allowed Wu Zhiqi to last this long? It would probably only take seconds for Wu Zhiqi to be refined to nothingness."


    "Yes."


    "What you said makes sense, Brother Xiangliu."


    "Among pinnacle mighty figures, who is Brother Xiangliu''s match?" quipped the five Chaos Godfiends.


    Xiangliu laughed confidently.


    Acknowledged by all as Gonggong''s number one general, Xiangliu''s strength was proven in the numerous battles he engaged in.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Tracing Guixun and Wu Zhiqi''s karmic transmission through the path, Xiangliu and company flew quickly and arrived moments later.


    "Xiangliu!" Wu Zhiqi saw them from afar and immediately revealed a look of delight.


    "General Xiangliu." Guixun was excited as well.


    There was little left of the energy contained within Wu Zhiqi''s scroll, but it was still able to withstand the refinement of the third Misty Rain Array.


    "Another six Chaos Godfiends? Why are so many Chaos Godfiends appearing inside Mt. Three Blades?" Qin Yun was somewhat astonished. Furthermore, he is the number one general under Gonggong, Xiangliu. Apparently, he is considered to have an undying Chaos Godfiend body?"


    "Begone!"


    Xiangliu held a short halberd in each of his hands and charged straight over, stabbing the massive array. In midair, the halberds phased and transformed into a black beam of light. "Boom." It stabbed into the Misty Rain Array as Qin Yun immediately transformed the Misty Rain Array with a thought. Many of the operations of the Misty Rain Array was used to withstand external attacks! The Misty Rain Array was still very good at defense and was naturally able to withstand Xiangliu''s strike.


    However, the operations of the array formation naturally had a bias.


    When the array formation spent all its energy on refining the enemy within, its defensive aspect would weaken. On the contrary, when it defended against external attacks, the refinement inside weakened.


    "It has weakened!" Wu Zhiqi could not help but reveal a look of delight when he sensed the surrounding Sword Qi thin out by more than ten times.


    "From the looks of it, I still have to use the Qingping Sword."


    Qin Yun''s voice sounded as he took a step and entered the Misty Rain Array.


    Shoo!


    A sword beam shot out from his sleeve.


    The green sword beam streaked across the air.


    It resembled the first wisp of sword beam in the Chaos that split the Heaven from Earth.


    "Pfft!" The earthly-yellow halo which protected Wu Zhiqi and Guixun immediately darkened drastically. This sharply changed Wu Zhiqi''s and Guixun''s expressions.


    "What''s happening?" Both of them panicked.


    Pew!


    The green sword beam''s second strike exhausted all of the scroll''s energy. It then stabbed Guixun as his body instantly evaporated while letting out a shrill scream, "No!"


    Under the green sword beam, Guixun''s gaseous body was rapidly annihilated.


    This strike was still Chaos Genesis Heaven Earth Split.


    However, after Qin Yun figured out the two Great Dao, the strength he delivered with the Qingping Sword was a lot stronger than back when he entered the fiendish dominion to slay Ancestral Fiend Moxiu.


    "In terms of defense, the Misty Rain Array still holds an advantage, but when it comes to killing, it''s still much weaker than the Qingping Sword," thought Qin Yun.


    The green sword beam did not stop as it went straight for Wu Zhiqi.


    "Stop!"


    Xiangliu raged outside.


    Xiangliu brandished the pair of short halberds with immense might, stirring the space around him. He violently delivered one strike after another on the Misty Rain Array, but it was for naught when the Misty Rain Array was in full defense mode.


    "Puah Puah Puah¡­"


    The green sword beam flashed.


    Wu Zhiqi''s three heads and six arms brandished the black chain to defend the impending strike while he roared angrily.


    However, it was useless!


    The green sword beam penetrated his body again and again, constantly eroding parts of him away. Even though his body was very powerful, it was left doing one last convulsion and stopping after resisting the eleventh blow.


    "I-I¡­" Wu Zhiqi found it unbelievable as his body silently dissipated.


    Chaos Godfiend, Wu Zhiqi, perished under Qin Yun''s Qingping Sword.


    This scene left Xiangliu, who was attacking the Misty Rain Array belligerently, taken aback. He had a conflicted look in his eyes as well. "Wu Zhiqi is dead?"


    ¡­


    Inside a stone tunnel, God King Zhurong and a bunch of Chaos Godfiends were advancing quickly.


    God King Zhurong suddenly stopped, causing his subordinates to naturally stop as well.


    "Wu Zhiqi is dead?" Zhurong looked at a direction in surprise. He could sense karma there that implied Wu Zhiqi had vanished from the Three Realms.


    ¡­


    "Wu Zhiqi is dead?"


    In another stone tunnel, Patriarch Blood Sea was rushing back. He stopped and looked in a particular direction.


    "This Wu Zhiqi is plagued with heinous sins. It''s unlikely the Daoists, Buddhists, and various factions would spare him. He was most suited to be taken in by us fiends," said Patriarch Blood Sea. "I never expected him to die so soon."


    Few of the released Chaos Godfiends caught Patriarch Blood Sea''s eye.


    After all¡­


    The Chaos Godfiends in the most ancient period relied on their talent for combat and talent varied. For instance, Daoist Wen was extremely talented, allowing him to create the spirit-devouring lineage. As for Wu Zhiqi, his talent was considered good. Even among the present pinnacle Daoist and Buddhist mighty figures, he would be considered pretty good. If he learned the various Dharmic formulations of the fiends, his strength would likely improve a little.


    The state of divine powers and Dharmic spells were a lot stronger than in the past.


    Back when Gonggong and Zhurong fought for supremacy, the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones were still experimenting. They had yet to reach the Heavenly Dao realm back then.


    "Sou!"


    Patriarch Blood Sea continued moving forward.


    He had found the sealed land by probing the laws governing Mt. Three Blades'' array formation, so he took the easiest and fastest path. His route was even simpler than the one taken by Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian. Although Yang Jian could sense the source, he had constantly taken detours to make progress, so his route was a little longer.


    Sou! Sou!


    Patriarch Blood Sea and another beam of light met in a stone tunnel.


    The stream of light suddenly stopped and it was none other than Yang Jian!


    "Patriarch Blood Sea." Yang Jian''s expression changed.


    "What a coincidence." Under Patriarch Blood Sea''s long brows, his eyes sparkled with a strange glint. "Yang Jian, I was still thinking of bumping into Qin Yun, but I never expected to bump into you first!"

 604 Quickly Take Your Leave Too

    "Escape!" Yang Jian did not hesitate to turn around and escape. Although he was deemed as the number one combat general of the Heavenly Courts, all he could do was flee for his life when faced with a perfected Great Dao existence like Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Will you be able to flee?"


    Patriarch Blood Sea laughed as he flicked his finger.


    Blood-colored lotuses flew out from his fingertips at astonishingly fast speeds and soon caught up with Yang Jian. The twelve blood-colored lotuses floated and formed a massive array which consisted of churning blood waves. With that, Yang Jian was trapped.


    "Boom." Yang Jian brandished his three-pointed, double-edged lance that exuded extremely horrifying might, but he was unable to break out of the crashing blood waves.


    "Yang Jian, this Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array is not something a junior like you can crack," said Patriarch Blood Sea with a smile.


    Yang Jian''s heart tightened as well.


    "Mt. Three Blades'' interior is so vast, and I had retreated ahead of time, yet I bumped into Patriarch Blood Sea. How is it so coincidental?" Yang Jian turned anxious as well. "I''m really in danger now!"


    Inside Mt. Three Blades, even if his backer Jade Void Palace wanted to rescue him, it was unlikely they could reach him anytime soon.


    "Master."


    Yang Jian immediately requested Jade Void Palace''s help through a karmic voice transmission.


    With such a crisis on his hands, Yang Jian had no plans of tiding through it himself.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun had naturally tried his best to hide himself from the heavenly secrets in Mt. Three Blades. With his realm and the Seven Stars Art, even people like Patriarch Blood Sea and God King Zhurong were unable to infer who Wu Zhiqi''s murderer was. However, there were some existences in all of the Three Realms who were capable of inferring this. For example, Emperor Polestar or the Buddhists'' Amita¡­


    Therefore, news of him killing Chaos Godfiend Wu Zhiqi very quickly spread among the strongest echelons in the Three Realms.


    "That Wu Zhiqi died moments after being released?"


    "He was killed by Qin Yun? For him to be able to kill Wu Zhiqi, it appears that this disciple of Numinous Treasure has astounding talent. If he is given a million or ten million years, he will likely be able to cultivate to a perfected Great Dao."


    "His own realm is likely not that high. He probably relied on the Qingping Sword to kill Wu Zhiqi. Without it, I refuse to believe that his cultivation of several thousand years is enough to slay Wu Zhiqi."


    The ancient existences chattered casually via voice transmissions.


    But suddenly, a piece of news spread.


    "Jade Void Palace''s Yang Jian encountered Patriarch Blood Sea in Mt. Three Blades!"


    "Yang Jian is in trouble now."


    "Jade Void Palace is anxious as well. Guangchengzi has already set off."


    "Yang Jian is presently the person with the highest chances of attaining a perfected Great Dao in Jade Void Palace. Primordial Beginning thinks highly of him, but if he ends up killed by Patriarch Blood Sea, I''m guessing that Primordial Beginning might go mad."


    "Primordial Beginning and the rest will have to leave the Three Realms eventually. Therefore, they have been focusing on nurturing juniors. Apart from Guangchengzi, Jade Void Palace is nurturing Yang Jian. After all, Yang Jian is a Physical Establishing Sage. If he were able to reach a perfected Great Dao, the shock and awe he could deliver would exceed Guangchengzi''s. He would definitely be able to take up the responsibility of running Jade Void Palace. However, if he were to be killed in Mt. Three Blades, all the years of Jade Void Palace''s expectations would be for naught."


    "Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun is also at Mt. Three Blades. Numinous Treasure similarly thinks highly of Qin Yun. He even bestowed his companion sword, the Qingping Sword to him. It would be interesting if he died at Mt. Three Blades as well! For two of the three Daoist lineages to suffer such great losses at Mt. Three Blades, haha¡­"


    "Qin Yun is an Itinerant Immortal. He has the Itinerant Immortal Tribulations to worry about, but Yang Jian is different. He is a Golden Immortal with no calamities or tribulations awaiting him. He also has a chance of attaining a perfected Great Dao."


    The ancient existences discussed the matter.


    The Daoists and Buddhists were simply too powerful, so many ancient existences were happy to see them suffer a setback.


    ******


    Elsewhere in Mt. Three Blades.


    Qin Yun''s slaying of Wu Zhiqi left Xiangliu raging. However, he had also saw the Qingping Sword that Qin Yun wielded.


    "The Qingping Sword?" Xiangliu sneered. "That''s Numinous Treasure''s companion sword. From the looks of it, Numinous Treasure thinks very highly of you, but even so, your killing of Wu Zhiqi demands your death!"


    "Go."


    However, Qin Yun did not say a single word.


    He gave a command with a thought.


    The three Heaven, Earth, and Man sword manifestations of the Misty Rain Sword flew in every direction and in a blink of an eye, trapped Xiangliu and the other five Chaos Godfiends within.


    "Xiangliu? Gonggong committed many unforgivable acts, and as the number one general under him, your sins are worse than Wu Zhiqi''s. Today, I''ll let you join Wu Zhiqi!" Qin Yun suddenly powered his Misty Rain Sword and instantly caused the Sword Qi within the array to turn to darkness. Firstly, it was his strongest refinement move, so he wished to wear away Xiangliu and the other Godfiends using his array. Back then, Gonggong''s two most sinful acts were to first cause a flood, wiping out countless living beings. Secondly, he slammed through Mt. Buzhou. If not for N¨¹wa who mended the heavens, it was possible that the Three Realms would have been destroyed.


    Since Gonggong did these things without any consideration, the generals under him who were his lackies also had committed shocking sins.


    "Take up formation." The five Chaos Godfiends under Xiangliu immediately set up a formation as they attempted to crack the Misty Rain Array.


    "You might have been able to trap Wu Zhiqi, but you can''t do the same to me." Xiangliu attacked alone. His two arms expanded rapidly as he stabbed at the Misty Rain Array with two short halberds. The halberds were surprisingly fast and every stab at the Misty Rain Array injected nine types of energies into the array formation¡ªcorrosion, darkness, annihilation, venom, hex curses, brute strength, undying vitals¡­


    Each halberd contained nine completely different energies.


    Qin Yun had long learned from Green Touring Palace''s intelligence that Xiangliu''s true form was that of a nine-headed serpent from the Chaos. Each head was innately born with the strength of a pinnacle mighty figure''s. With the combined power of the nine heads, Xiangliu was possessed of a supernatural strength since birth. Although there were many pinnacle mighty figures under Gonggong, Xiangliu was undeniably ranked first among the Chaos Godfiends.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s Essence Soul was formed by wisps of extremely sharp Dharmic powers, with each wisp of Dharmic powers containing a Sword Dao of its own.


    Xiangliu''s hexes were unable to do anything to Qin Yun''s Essence Soul, but his other means were able to affect Qin Yun''s array formation. When those energies seeped into the array formation, it was like maggots that went deep into the bone, unable to be removed.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" The other five Chaos Godfiends also joined forces in their formation. Two of them were also pinnacle mighty figures so they delivered extremely powerful strength.


    Accompanied by a booming hum, the Misty Rain Array experienced the infiltration of various energies. Its operations turned increasingly difficult as it was pushed to its limits.


    "This Xiangliu''s strength is way higher than Wu Zhiqi''s." Qin Yun also waved his hand, transforming the Qingping Sword into a green sword beam. It flew into the array formation and went straight for Xiangliu.


    "Oh?"


    Xiangliu was alarmed as he hurriedly blocked the incoming attack with his two halberds. They were extremely ingenuous, so even Qin Yun''s flying sword was unable to crack his defense.


    "Pfft!"


    The sword flash and his two halberds clashed as sword intent silently seeped into Xiangliu''s body and damaged it.


    However, Xiangliu''s body seemed indestructible. The sword intent did cause damage, but his body quickly recovered from that damage.


    "Legends say that this Xiangliu had seven of his heads slain by a perfected Great Dao existence, but his seven heads still quickly regrew. My usage of the Qingping Sword can only damage him, but his Indestructible Body is able to rapidly recover. It''s useless no matter how much time is spent." Qin Yun understood this point. "There''s nothing I can do about this. These Chaos Godfiends sometimes have really powerful talents.


    "For instance, Daoist Wen was able to devour Connate Cardinal treasures at birth. The Buddhists'' Mahamayuri was born capable of controlling the Five Elements. The Ancestral Dragon was even better than Daoist Wen and Mahamayuri. Even his bloodline''s proliferation was capable of forming the extremely powerful dragons in the Three Realms," thought Qin Yun. "However, talent is both an aid and also a shackle. We humans can also practice cultivation to catch up to them and even surpass them."


    Qin Yun did not continue wasting his time. With a thought, the Misty Rain Array''s three flying swords flew back and surrounded him.


    He no longer attempted to trap and kill his opponents.


    Instead, he focused purely on defense!


    If it was only defense, the Misty Rain Array was a lot more powerful than it was when trapping and killing enemies. After all, back when he entered the fiendish dominion, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array was able to withstand Patriarch Blood Sea''s large palm strike without shattering. Only a portion of strength seeped into the array formation, a testimony of how powerful the Misty Rain Array was as a defense.


    "Sou!"


    With the Misty Rain Sword protecting him, Qin Yun put away the Qingping Sword and shot a glance at Xiangliu and company before departing.


    "Brother Xiangliu." The other five Chaos Godfiends looked at Xiangliu.


    "It''s no wonder Numinous Treasure bestowed him with the Qingping Sword," said Xiangliu. "This Itinerant Immortal''s Sword Dao is indeed powerful. He is able to injure me, but I can''t injure him at all. From the looks of it, the Three Realms has changed drastically during our long imprisonment. Even Daoist Itinerant Immortals are that powerful. We should stay low and figure out the situation first."


    "Yes." The five Chaos Godfiends nodded in unison.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued studying the array formations in Mt. Three Blades. Although he had figured out the Great Dao of Earth, he still found many of the array formation''s aspects puzzling. He was drawing knowledge from them.


    "Junior Brother, quickly leave Mt. Three Blades." A voice sounded in his ears.


    Qin Yun was astonished. "Eldest Senior Sister, what''s wrong?"


    "There is danger in Mt. Three Blades. Yang Jian has been trapped by Patriarch Blood Sea. Even with his Eight-Nine Arcane Art and other means, he is unable to last much longer. His life is in danger," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain immediately. "You have to quickly withdraw!"


    "Yang Jian is trapped by Patriarch Blood Sea and his life is in danger?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Qin Yun had a very good impression of Yang Jian.


    Back when Star Destruction attempted to occupy the Great Chang world, Yang Jian had appeared with the intention to save him and a few others despite having never met him before. However, Qin Yun ultimately refused and attempted to transcend the tribulations instead of escaping.


    However, Qin Yun had never forgotten this act of friendship.


    "Yang Jian?" Qin Yun immediately carefully sensed the karma.


    Previously, Yang Jian had concealed his karma through the Eight-Nine Arcane Art, but after being trapped by Patriarch Blood Sea, his opponent knew his location very well. In order to allow his side to find him quickly, he was no longer concealing his karma. Instead, he was deliberately revealing it. Now, Jade Void Palace experts and aid they requested for were rushing over.


    "He''s there and not very far from me." Qin Yun also sensed Yang Jian''s location.

 605 Fighting Alongside Each Other In Life and Death

    Qin Yun did not hesitate to forge forward.


    If it was a hopeless cause, Qin Yun naturally would not send himself to death. However, he had witnessed the battle between Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and Patriarch Blood Sea during his assault in the fiendish dominion! Furthermore, his Misty Rain Array at that time¡­ was able to hold against Patriarch Blood Sea''s attack. Perhaps it could be said that Patriarch Blood Sea had not used all his strength, but the Qin Yun from back then had only just attained his pinnacle Great Dao.


    Now, Qin Yun had fused three pinnacle Great Dao together, and he was just a sliver short of a perfected Great Dao! The Misty Rain Array had also undergone tumultuous changes and its defensive aspect far exceeded the Qingping Sword''s. It had to be noted that the present Qin Yun had increased his realm significantly and this Flying Sword''s might was a lot stronger than before.


    This was expected too.


    As Qin Yun grew in strength, it was destined that his Intrinsic Flying Sword would slowly chase up to or even exceed the Qingping Sword in different aspects.


    "He is about four kilometers away, but the forks make it like a maze. How am I to reach him?" Qin Yun''s Misty Rain domain penetrated the stone walls to probe the array formation veins as he carefully took note of the terrain.


    After figuring out the Great Dao of Earth, Qin Yun was able to understand even more of the array''s veins.


    He could also guess a lot more of the connections between the forks.


    "I should head in this direction." Qin Yun did not hesitate to proceed forward.


    This was the first time he was not meditating over the array formation in Mt. Three Blades. Instead, he proceeded with a goal in mind. As such, his speed was a lot faster.


    ******


    Elsewhere in Mt. Three Blades.


    The Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array was created by Patriarch Blood Sea after years of cultivation. Yang Jian was unable to escape from it.


    As Patriarch Blood Sea controlled the array formation, he chatted with the Fiend Ancestor.


    "Brother Blood Sea, kill this Yang Jian if you can. If you are able to kill him, bring me the third eye at his glabella. If you fail to kill him, at least capture him alive and hand him to me whole." The Fiend Ancestor sent a karmic voice transmission from afar. "As long as you succeed, I will bestow you the treasure you have been wanting all this while."


    Patriarch Blood Sea''s smile widened when he heard that.


    "Fiend Ancestor, don''t worry. Leave it to me," said Patriarch Blood Sea via voice transmission.


    All of them knew very well that the Fiend Ancestor always wished to capture Yang Jian and the monkey who was now Buddhist. Some time ago, the Fiend Ancestor had even sneaked up onto the monkey while disregarding his status. However, he was stopped by the Buddhist Ancestor.


    "To think that the Fiend Ancestor would actually part with their cardinal treasure to make an exchange. However, it''s to my advantage. If I have that cardinal treasure, perhaps my Blood Sea Great Dao would improve further." Patriarch Blood Sea looked at Yang Jian, who was trapped inside the Negative Karma Fire Blood Lotus Array, and wore a look of worry in his eyes. "However, this Yang Jian has cultivated the Eight-Nine Arcane Art to an extremely high realm. He has already attained an invulnerable body. Even the The Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array will need forty-nine days to fully erode and refine him to death."


    Entities with extremely powerful bodies were very hard to kill.


    "I have to think of means to capture him alive." Acting on his will, the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array underwent another change.


    Whoosh~


    Yang Jian was trapped amid waves of blood and was unable to extricate himself.


    Suddenly, red ribbon bands surfaced amid the blood waves as they began circling Yang Jian.


    "He''s thinking of capturing me?" Yang Jian naturally knew that it was over once he was captured. He used all his might to deliver a blow with his three-pointed, doubled-edged lance. The lance arts were mystical, as though they were a portrayal of the Samsara. They were flawless, allowing him to completely fend off the red ribbons.


    "His body is powerful and his close combat techniques are impressive as well," sighed Patriarch Blood Sea when he saw this. "Furthermore, his Samsara Great Dao is just a sliver short of perfection. It''s no wonder Jade Void Palace thinks so highly of him.


    "However, a sliver short¡­ still means a night and day difference."


    "Collect!"


    Patriarch Blood Sea suddenly extended his hand as his arm expanded rapidly. A huge palm surfaced in midair as it came bearing down on Yang Jian.


    Furthermore, the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array also began changing. A huge blood-colored lotus flower appeared deep beneath the array''s tumultuous blood waves! The gigantic blood-colored lotus flower completely filled the center of the array formation.


    "Oh?" Yang Jian''s expression changed.


    The gigantic lotus flower beneath him floated upwards as the petals began enveloping him.


    Above him was Patriarch Blood Sea''s massive palm.


    There was no room for escape between the two impending attacks.


    Yang Jian tried his best to attack with his three-pointed, doubled-edged lance in a bid to tear through the blood-colored lotus'' petals. However, despite managing to barely tear apart one petal, a new petal appeared in its place.


    "Yang Jian, don''t bother keeping up with your struggle. You will not be able to escape me." Patriarch Blood Sea laughed as he powered the array formation and bore down with his palm.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea!" There was a keen glint in Yang Jian''s eyes.


    The massive blood-colored lotus began closing.


    The palm came pressing from above.


    Trapped in the middle, Yang Jian stopped brandishing his lance and glared at Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Open." Yang Jian bellowed coldly.


    A vertical eye opened in his glabella.


    "A Heavenly Eye divine power?" Patriarch Blood Sea thought nothing of it. All of the Three Realms knew Perfect Sovereign Erlang Yang Jian had cultivated a Heavenly Eye. However, many people had Heavenly Eye divine powers in the Three Realms, so Patriarch Blood Sea thought nothing of it.


    "Obliterate."


    A black beam suddenly shot out from Yang Jian''s vertical eye.


    The black beam brought with it a destructive aura and an aura of death the moment it appeared.


    "The Fiend Ancestor''s Divine Eye of Destruction?" Patriarch Blood Sea was alarmed. He knew that the Fiend Ancestor''s strongest destruction body had a Divine Eye of Destruction. He had even seen the Fiend Ancestor use it against the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor. Yang Jian''s casting of it made him sense the same aura.


    "Boom!"


    The black beam proceeded in an unstoppable onslaught as it tore apart the gigantic blood-colored lotus. The Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array was cracked as it shot towards Patriarch Blood Sea.


    Patriarch Blood Sea immediately flipped his massive palm in a bid to stop him.


    He was a little fearful towards the move that resembled the Fiend Ancestor''s Divine Eye of Destruction.


    Pu!


    The black beam instantly tore through his palm and penetrated Patriarch Blood Sea''s body, finally hitting a vein of Mt. Three Blades''s array formation. Mt. Three Blades'' array formation naturally withstood the blow easily.


    "It''s very powerful and matches the attack strength of a perfected Great Dao. Unfortunately, it''s far weaker than the Fiend Ancestor''s." Patriarch Blood Sea laughed. The body that had been hollowed recovered with a swirl of sanguine light. "I have an Indestructible Body. This bit of injury won''t affect me at all."


    He secretly heaved a sigh of relief as well.


    He was originally frightened, but after taking blow head-on, he realized that it was at the strength of a perfected Great Dao. It was only power that belonged to death and destruction.


    "I can sense that using this power is demanding on you," said Patriarch Blood Sea with a smile. With a thought, the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array was powered again. "It''s impossible for there to be no cost for a pinnacle Golden Immortal like you to cast something at the level of a perfected Great Dao! I want to see how many times you can cast it."


    Yang Jian did not respond at all.


    He was always unwilling to use this power, but he had no choice but to use it this time.


    Once, twice, thrice!


    Against Patriarch Blood Sea''s all-out strength, Yang Jian was forced to use the true powers of his glabella''s Divine Eye.


    Yang Jian was affected every time the aura of destruction and death inside his Divine Eye was used. It also affected his Essence Soul.


    However, he cultivated in the Samsara Great Dao and was able to wear away the aura. Now that his realm was sufficiently high, he was able to withstand a lot more than back when he could only use it once in his youth.


    Twenty times! Twenty-one times!


    Yang Jian''s Dharmic powers began to turn chaotic as his Essence Soul was beginning to become tainted.


    "I can''t continue," muttered Yang Jian inwardly. "If I continue using it, I''ll likely end up a fiend."


    "Haha, even your Dharmic powers have turned chaotic. How many more times can you cast it?" Patriarch Blood Sea was turning even more confident.


    "I had once sworn that I would rather be completely destroyed in both body and soul than become a fiend." Yang Jian had made up his mind.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea! What a coincidence! We meet again!" A voice sounded at that moment.


    Yang Jian turned his head to look.


    He saw a figure fly over like a sword beam. Circulating him were three flying swords.


    The figure dashed straight into the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array as the three flying swords around him rapidly expanded and protected Yang Jian inside a sword array. It completely fended off the blood waves'' corrosion.


    "Qin Yun." Yang Jian identified the figure to be the Great Chang world''s Qin Yun. Qin Yun was only an Itinerant Immortal at the pinnacle Golden Immortal level. Why did he not hesitate to charge into the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array?


    "Perfect Sovereign." Qin Yun smiled at him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you¡­" Yang Jian was an extremely proud loner. He was momentarily speechless seeing Qin Yun risk his life to save him. He felt his chest burning hot.


    Yang Jian knew that he would never forget this moment for the rest of his life.


    "Hahaha, after bumping into one, I have bumped into a second one. My luck sure is good." Patriarch Blood Sea laughed out loud.


    "Perfect Sovereign, shall we join forces to fight this Patriarch Blood Sea, alright?" Qin Yun roared with laughter as he used the Misty Rain Array to fend off the blood waves'' corrosion.


    "Alright." Yang Jian laughed out upon seeing this. "Sword Immortal Qin, our lives are tied together in life and death. Let us fight Patriarch Blood Sea together."

 606 Best Defensive Array

    Elsewhere in Mt. Three Blades.


    A concealed stream of light was darting through the stone tunnels. Within the stream of light was a long-bearded Daoist. His black beard reached his chest and he was none other than Guangchengzi, the famous acting sect leader of the Jade Void Palace. Guangchengzi was usually quite an easygoing person, but at that moment, he wore an undeniable look of worry.


    "Against Patriarch Blood Sea, Disciple-Nephew Yang has probably used his Divine Eye of Destruction. He is not the Fiend Ancestor. The power of the Divine Eye of Destruction is not something he can control. Every cast will affect his Essence Soul, eventually causing him to turn into a fiend." Guangchengzi was anxious. "Master had to personally take action to make him regain consciousness the last time it happened. But back then, he was still very weak. If he were to turn fiendish again, even Master can''t save him.


    "Quick, I need to be faster."


    Guangchengzi rushed as fast as he could. "This Mt. Three Blades'' interior is nothing but a maze! The route map that Yang Jian gave is too circuitous!"


    Yang Jian had taken many detours as well, so by following Yang Jian''s map, Guangchengzi naturally had to waste a lot of time.


    "Disciple-Nephew Yang, you have to hold on." Guangchengzi was rushing over at full speed.


    Jade Void Palace was sparing no cost to save Yang Jian.


    "Uncle-Master, Qin Yun has appeared to help me. He''s about to help me fend off Patriarch Blood Sea," Yang Jian said via a karmic voice transmission.


    "Qin Yun?"


    Guangchengzi was taken aback.


    That Itinerant Immortal Qin Yun was actually willing to risk his life to save Yang Jian with Patriarch Blood Sea as an opponent? Qin Yun had redoubtable strength considering his killing of Wu Zhiqi, making him one of the Three Realms'' most powerful experts. However, against a perfected Great Dao existence¡­ even Yang Jian was no match, so how could Qin Yun be any better?


    "Green Touring Palace''s Qin Yun sure is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve!"


    Guangchengzi''s impression of Qin Yun also rose sharply and favorably.


    Although there was some estrangement between Jade Void Palace and Green Touring Palace, Guangchengzi was still rather grateful towards Qin Yun. Qin Yun was risking his life for his disciple.


    "However, I will still take a while to reach them. Can they last that long?" Guangchengzi had little confidence in Qin Yun and Yang Jian.


    ¡­


    "This Qin Yun actually went to save Yang Jian? He¡­ He¡­ He sure is bold."


    "It is a bit rash. Despite knowing that Patriarch Blood Sea is there, not only did he not hide, he even went over to join the fray. But to be honest, I''m quite impressed by his risking of his life to save Yang Jian."


    "It''s foolishness! If he''s not careful, not only will he fail to save Yang Jian, he might even die as well. Is this not foolishness?"


    "You must do certain things at times! Sometimes, being a little foolish is indeed worthy of respect."


    "Respect? I do feel respect, but to be honest, if the two of them die, it will be a major loss for both Jade Void Palace and Green Touring Palace. It would be beneficial for all of us."


    Two ancient existences were communicating over voice transmissions.


    Although Qin Yun was good at concealing his karma, there were still several in the Three Realms who could see through it and learn of his current situation.


    ¡­


    "Junior Brother, how silly!"


    On a cloud outside Mt. Three Blades, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain was still feeling quite leisurely, but news quickly reached her ears.


    She was also somewhat flustered.


    The person with the highest chance of a perfected Great Dao in Jade Void Palace was Yang Jian. As for Green Touring Palace, it was Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun was different from Yang Jian.


    Yang Jian was a descendant of a Chaos Godfiend. He had an extraordinary background and also possessed the Divine Eye of Destruction. He was one with an extremely high foundation. Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning thought highly of him and spared no expense at nurturing him.


    Qin Yun was a mortal who cultivated step by step. Although his cultivation process was arduous, it was very robust. He did not rely on his bloodline, but on insights he gained bit by bit. When he first formed a Great Dao, it was already a pinnacle Great Dao. To gain a perfected Great Dao, Qin Yun''s path was smoother. Only the Itinerant Immortal tribulations made Qin Yun''s cultivation path fraught with danger.


    Green Touring Palace hoped that Qin Yun would transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    In fact, all three Daoist lineages shared a common problem! While the Daoist Three Pure Ones remained in the Three Realms, Eight Scenic Palace, Jade Void Palace, and Green Touring Palace naturally enjoyed a supreme standing. All other factions had to bow their heads. However, all the ancient existences knew that¡­ it would not be long before the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor would be forced to leave the Three Realms.


    When that happened, there would not be any Heavenly Dao realm existences in the Three Realms.


    All Jade Void Palace had was a perfected Great Dao existence, same for Green Touring Palace. How were they to maintain their current statuses? Even past grudges could become issues again as revenge was sought against the three Daoist lineages.


    The ancient existences would then be afraid when the time came. With all factions in contention in the Three Realms, what would become of the three Daoist lineages? Therefore, every disciple that had a chance of attaining a perfected Great Dao was groomed.


    ******


    While the world outside paid attention to the matter, Qin Yun and Yang Jian were resisting Patriarch Blood Sea with all their might.


    "Boom!" Blood waves churned, but the Misty Rain Array managed to completely defend the blows.


    "Brother Qin Yun, your array formation sure is powerful. It''s completely able to block off the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array." Yang Jian revealed a look of delight.


    Qin Yun smiled. "This array formation of mine isn''t much in other aspects, but when it comes to defense, it is cream of the crop."


    Since he was weak, he developed the Misty Rain Sword Art to be good at defense. He had wandered down his Sword Dao path and had traveled an increasing distance on it. His Sword Dao was not the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles, nor was it the Limitless Heaven and Earth, but the Heaven, Earth, and Man. In fact, the Dao of the Heavenly Cycles was good at defense, and so was the Limitless Heaven and Earth. However, Heaven, Earth, and Man was even better when it came to defense. It was more stable.


    Having just attained a pinnacle Great Dao, his Misty Rain Array was able to withstand Patriarch Blood Sea''s few blows. Although Patriarch Blood Sea had delivered those attacks remotely across space, it was sufficient testimony of the Misty Rain Array''s extraordinariness.


    "Qin Yun, do you think that I can''t do a thing to you because I did not manage to crack your array formation the last time?" Patriarch Blood Sea laughed as his body suddenly dissipated and transformed into rich sanguine light that infused into the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array.


    The moment he surged in, the might of the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array rose.


    "Red Lotus Annihilation." What followed was an angry bellow.


    Twelve blood-colored lotus flowers fused as one.


    As a gigantic blood-colored lotus flower, its petals spun and ground at the Misty Rain Array situated in the middle.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!" As the petals spun their deadly grind, it was as though the world was sinking into oblivion. This move was not used against Yang Jian since Yang Jian had an indestructible body and was impossible to kill. All he could do was think of means to capture him alive. As for Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array, it was like a turtle shell. It was imperturbable, so he had to crack the array formation first.


    "As long as this array formation is cracked, an Itinerant Immortal like Qin Yun''s body is extremely frail. I can easily kill him. That Yang Jian won''t be able to cast the Divine Eye of Destruction more than a few times. I can easily capture him alive." Patriarch Blood Sea was filled with anticipation.


    "However, all of this requires me to crack this array formation first."


    Patriarch Blood Sea knew that it was not easy doing so.


    The gigantic blood-colored lotus flower constantly ground at the array as it displayed its annihilative might, but it failed to crack it.


    "I can''t crack it?" Patriarch Blood Sea turned anxious. "This is my strongest frontal attack. Darn it. I didn''t bring my Connate Cardinal treasure, Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus, with me."


    Patriarch Blood Sea was a careful person. He had only sent his combat body on the expedition. Even if the combat body died, all he needed was time to recultivate it again. The Connate Cardinal treasure, Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus was his most important treasure. He could lose his combat body, but not his Connate Cardinal treasure. He naturally kept it by his blood sea''s side.


    But at that moment, he was regretting that decision!


    Yang Jian and Qin Yun! Just killing either one of them would be a great deed!


    "His Misty Rain Array is cast with his Intrinsic Flying Sword which is also a Merit Numinous treasure. My Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array is unable to taint it at all," thought Patriarch Blood Sea. "If I had brought my Cardinal treasure with me, the array formation''s might would increase several times. Perhaps, I would have been able to crack it. But now¡­ it seems impossible." A cold glint flashed in Patriarch Blood Sea''s eyes. "There''s only one way. Kill Qin Yun while he''s inside the array. Once he''s dead, the array formation will naturally crumble."


    ¡­


    Inside the Misty Rain Array.


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian were extremely wary. They did not have the extravagant hopes of counterattacking. All they wanted was to stall for time so that Jade Void Palace''s Guangchengzi would arrive. That would mean success.


    "Since he can''t crack it open with a frontal assault, he will be using a shady blow," said Yang Jian.


    "Don''t worry. I''ve had a taste of his attacks the last time," said Qin Yun with a smile. The Qingping Sword in his sleeve was ready to fly out at any time.


    "The last time was only an ordinary blow. He will likely risk his life this time." Just as Yang Jian finished his sentence, a blast seeped into the Misty Rain Array forcibly. Yang Jian''s expression immediately changed as he charged forward. Augmented by the mystical charms of Samsara, his three-pointed, doubled-edged lance completely fended of the blast.


    Qin Yun said, "Don''t worry. The might that seeps in will be less than ten percent. It would not pose a threat."


    "Your body is far weaker than mine, so don''t be careless." As Yang Jian said, he took the initiative to fend off the blows. Yang Jian was naturally able to deal with the weakened blows, so there was no need for Qin Yun''s additional help.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Suddenly, there was a sizzling sound amid the blood waves of the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus Array as the waves gradually thinned.


    "He''s going to risk it and burn his entire combat body." Yang Jian''s expression changed and immediately sent a voice transmission solemnly. "Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body is a condensation of his blood sea''s purest energies. Once he burns it, the explosive might released would surge outwards. It would even take him some time to recover."


    "Karma, obliterate."


    Patriarch Blood Sea attacked.


    He burned his combat body to deliver an explosive blow, sending it down the karmic lines at Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly. The Misty Rain Array was a combination of Heaven, Earth, and Man, and had long formed a realm of its own. A killing blow delivered from an external realm via karma would still be obstructed by the realm.


    However, blocking karma was the hardest.


    Patriarch Blood Sea was also one of the existences who knew karma best in the Three Realms. This strike still had 20% strength after the karmic transmission and was nearly halved in strength by the Misty Rain Array!


    Yang Jian wished to help Qin Yun, but he was unable to help against the killing blow via karma.


    "Heaven and Earth Seal!" A wisp of green light shot out from Qin Yun''s hand, instantly producing a blurry sword flash that enveloped their surroundings, blocking off everything. It was as though the Heaven and Earth themselves were sealing everything. It was one of the defensive moves that Qin Yun had figured out from the Qingping Sword. This move could similarly intercept karma, drastically reducing its might.


    "Pfft!"


    The remaining strength was like a needle that stabbed at his Essence Soul.


    Qin Yun''s Essence Soul was made up of innumerable sharp Sword Dao Dharmic powers. They were sufficiently powerful, so only a little damage was inflicted.


    "His array formation is also that sturdy when it comes to blocking karma?" Patriarch Blood Sea lost his zeal when he saw this. The Misty Rain Array was indeed very comprehensive. Not only was it good at defending against frontal attacks, but it was also good at resisting corruption. Even its defense against karmic blows far exceeded Patriarch Blood Sea''s expectations. "My burning of my combat body can only deliver three attacks. Even by risking my life, all I can do is injure Qin Yun.


    "Forget it.


    "Since it''s impossible, I should leave as soon as possible. If not, once Guangchengzi arrives, this combat body of mine might not be able to leave."


    Whoosh¡ª


    The endless blood waves abruptly transformed into a blood-colored stream of light.


    With a flash, it rapidly departed through the stone passageways, vanishing from Qin Yun''s and Yang Jian''s sight.


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian were both shocked.


    "He''s gone?" Qin Yun exclaimed in surprise.


    "He left without any scruples," said Yang Jian with a smile. "He likely knows that there''s no hope so he did not hesitate to leave immediately! Brother Qin Yun, you made Patriarch Blood Sea powerless against you. When word of this battle spreads, you will probably leave all the mighty figures of the Three Realms astounded."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Accompanied by laugher, a figure flew over.


    "Uncle-Master." Yang Jian immediately went over to receive the figure.


    Qin Yun also dispelled the Misty Rain Array and went over. He recognized the person to be none other than the famous Guangchengzi at a glance.


    "This Disciple-Nephew of mine is right," said Guangchengzi with a laugh. "Qin Yun, you sure have shocked many during this battle of yours. I wouldn''t dare make any bold claims about your defensive array formation, but it''s absolutely the best defensive array among pinnacle Golden Immortals."

 607 Leaving the Mountain

    "Greetings, Senior Brother Guangchengzi," said Qin Yun with a bow. Due to the Daoist-Fiend war, the relationships between the three Daoist lineages had warmed up significantly. At the very least, they appeared united on the surface. In terms of seniority, Guangchengzi was Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning''s disciple while Qin Yun was Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s disciple. It was indeed correct for him to address Guangchengzi as senior brother. Instead, it was Yang Jian who was a third generation Jade Void Palace disciple. Strictly speaking, he was one generation Qin Yun''s junior.


    However, strength was supreme in the Three Realms.


    If emphasis was placed on seniority and cultivation time, there were tons of ancient existences that would win out. Just the Chaos Godfiends alone were a huge bunch!


    In the Three Realms, the strong were the seniors! They were the mighty figures! The weaker ones would be juniors or predecessors regardless of how long they had been cultivating.


    Qin Yun shared a good relationship with Yang Jian, so it was normal for them to address each other as brother.


    "My sword arts were good at protecting myself even while I was a mortal," said Qin Yun with a smile. "And it has been so all this while. My Sword Dao is great at defense, and having become an Itinerant Immortal, there are numerous Itinerant Immortal tribulations awaiting me. Now, the first thing on my mind is naturally to resist the Heavenly Tribulations. Therefore, I have put more effort into defense. The only thing noteworthy about my sword array is its defensive capabilities. It''s relatively weak in every other aspect."


    Guangchengzi was enlightened when he heard that.


    In order to transcend the tribulations, an Itinerant Immortal placed all his focus on defense? This made Guangchengzi pity Qin Yun a little.


    Everyone in the Three Realms knew that being an Itinerant Immortal was a dead end.


    Successfully being one was harder than attaining a perfected Great Dao!


    "Brother Qin Yun, if there''s any help you need from me, feel free to tell me," promised Yang Jian.


    "Yes, feel free to say it if you need my Jade Void Palace''s help," said Guangchengzi with a smile. "After all, my Jade Void Palace does owe you a great favor after what happened." Guangchengzi knew very well that, with his master''s temperament, it was impossible that Jade Void Palace would turn a blind eye to Qin Yun''s rescue of Yang Jian.


    The Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning wished that their taking advantage of the Green Touring Palace would be kept to a minimum.


    "Haha, I will definitely say it when needed," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    Guangchengzi nodded. "Alright, let''s leave quickly."


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian did not object.


    Qin Yun had already gained insights into the Great Dao of Earth, so with the primary goal of his expedition accomplished, why would he need to continue studying the array formation? Mt. Three Blades was here and he could come again at anytime! Besides, the most pressing matter for him now was to figure out the final Great Dao of Man to attain a perfected Great Dao. Therefore, he could not continue wasting his time at Mt. Three Blades.


    The trio immediately flew forward through the stone tunnels.


    "Uncle-Master, you were just a little late. You arrived several seconds after Patriarch Blood Sea left," said Yang Jian. "If you stopped him and destroyed his combat body, that would have been awesome. Eh? Uncle-Master, why are you taking this fork? I''ve never entered this fork before!"


    "Follow me," said Guangchengzi as he flew. "As for that map you gave me, aren''t you aware of how many detours it has?"


    Yang Jian was taken aback as he said ashamed, "Mt. Three Blades'' interior is like a maze, so I was constantly going in circles."


    "After receiving your call for help, I immediately entered Mt. Three Blades and kept going in circles through this maze according to your map," said Guangchengzi with a shake of his head. "Eventually, Master had to personally seek Goddess N¨¹wa''s help before she provided the entire map of Mt. Three Blades'' interior. That allowed me to arrive when I did, or I''d probably have been five minutes late."


    Yang Jian was alarmed. "Master sought Goddess N¨¹wa''s help¡­"


    At the level of the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning and Goddess N¨¹wa, requesting each other''s help was not a simple task.


    "Don''t be rash in the future," said Guangchengzi.


    "Yes," replied Yang Jian.


    "Thankfully there was Qin Yun," said Guangchengzi. "If not, by the time Goddess N¨¹wa gave me the map, it would likely have been too late by the time I arrived."


    Yang Jian nodded as he looked at Qin Yun.


    It was true he owed him a big one.


    "Brother Yang Jian cultivates in an indestructible body, so even if he was temporary captured, I believe Senior Brother Guangchengzi would be able to chase up and rescue you since he had Goddess N¨¹wa''s map," said Qin Yun.


    "Once he''s captured, things would be hard to predict." Guangchengzi did not elaborate.


    ¡­


    With Guangchengzi leading the way, the trio quickly exited the mountain.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Three figures flew out of Mt. Three Blades'' entrance.


    "I''m out." Looking at the vast land in front of him, Qin Yun turned back to glance at the lofty Mt. Three Blades. His entry had allowed his strength to break through, and he was just short of a sliver to a perfected Great Dao.


    Yang Jian looked at the scenery outside as he smiled.


    Finally out!


    "Hahaha¡­ Qin Yun, that eldest senior sister of yours is up head. Let''s rush over," said Guangchengzi with a laugh.


    "Eldest Senior Sister?" Qin Yun felt somewhat awkward.


    His Eldest Senior Sister, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, had exhorted him to quickly leave when she noticed that the situation in Mt. Three Blades was not right. However, he had taken the initiative to fight Patriarch Blood Sea.


    The trio flew to somewhere nearby.


    On a cloud a short distance away stood an elderly woman with a staff. She was none other than the Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and she was looking at Qin Yun in a displeased manner.


    "Eldest Senior Sister, I was rash," said Qin Yun with the initiative.


    "Wudang, don''t blame Qin Yun. It was solely because of Qin Yun that Yang Jian was able to escape with his life," said Guangchengzi with a smile. Yang Jian also bowed. "I''m alive all thanks to Brother Qin Yun."


    The Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain glared at Qin Yun while she gave Guangchengzi a faint smile. "Guangchengzi, Yang Jian escaped with his life, but Qin Yun risked his life. Your Jade Void Palace took great advantage of us."


    "My Jade Void Palace will naturally remember that we owe Qin Yun one," said Guangchengzi.


    "You better." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded slightly.


    Just as they were chatting idly¡ª


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and Guangchengzi sensed something and turned to look at Mt. Three Blades.


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian did the same.


    A burning and domineering aura surfaced at Mt. Three Blades'' entrance. It was a red-haired man with disheveled hair. He was the first to exit and behind him were a bunch of ancient Chaos Godfiends.


    The red-haired man scanned the surrounding world with an evident dominance and might. He stood there as though he was the only supreme existence in the world.


    "Zhurong." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and Guangchengzi''s expression both turned solemn.


    God King Zhurong was stronger than all the other perfected Great Dao existences in the nascent periods of the Three Realms. Back then, he was only at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Only God King Gonggong, who was similarly at the half-step perfected Great Dao, could compete with him for supremacy. Back then, various factions avoided the conflict and ultimately, Zhurong defeated Gonggong. At that time, he was the strongest existence! It was only when Goddess N¨¹wa suddenly broke through to the Heavenly Dao realm that he was reined in.


    Despite all this time, God King Zhurong did not improve at all. He was still one of the few strongest existences beneath the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Three Realms, I''m back." Zhurong smiled as he looked at the world before him.


    Meanwhile¡ª


    In a forest beneath Mt. Three Blades.


    A linen-clothed man was looking at the wild flowers leisurely on the ground when he suddenly sensed something. He looked up and saw the Zhurong who stood by Mt. Three Blades'' entrance.


    "Zhurong, you are finally out. I''ve been waiting in the Effulgent Great World for so many years just for this very day." The linen-clothed man flipped his hand as a black, ancient, and simply adorned longbow appeared.

 608 Hou Yis Arrow

    Bows were very rare Dharma armaments in the Three Realms. Very few Immortals, Buddhists, or Godfiends used bows and arrow, but when one appeared in the hands of the linen-clothed man, it became the most terrifying weapon in the Three Realms!


    The man held an ancient but unadorned longbow in one hand and took out a golden arrow with his other.


    "Boom!"


    His Dharmic powers burned as a terrifying aura billowed.


    By releasing his full strength, he could no longer be concealed. Instantly, the numerous perfected Great Dao existences around Mt. Three Blades such as Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, Guangchengzi, and Zhurong sensed it. All of them looked in the direction of the stir.


    "Hou Yi?" Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and Guangchengzi wore looks of alarm. "Is Hou Yi burning his Dharmic powers?"


    At Hou Yi''s level, it was truly rare for him to burn his Dharmic powers to deal with his enemies.


    The terrifying flaming aura was sensed by both Qin Yun and Yang Jian, so they also noticed the linen-clothed man. Although Hou Yi had yet to shoot the arrow, the invisible oppressive might left Qin Yun and Yang Jian alarmed.


    "Mighty God Hou Yi?" Both of them had naturally heard of Mighty God Hou Yi''s fame.


    Hou Yi had long chosen to recluse himself in the Effulgent Great World; therefore, in the eyes of many experts in the Effulgent Great World, it was naturally Hou Yi''s territory, so no one dared to raise any provocations. This was the might of Hou Yi that left everyone fearful and awed! Even the Chaos Godfiend, Nine Neonate¡ªa perfected Great Dao existence¡ªhad been shot to death by Hou Yi.


    Back when the ancient demon Heavenly Courts ruled the Three Realms, how powerful was it? The ten princes were Golden Crows, but Hou Yi had killed nine of them with his arrows all at once! Only one managed to survive.


    "What a powerful aura."


    Zhurong looked at the linen-clothed man from a distance. "However, his aura resembles Yi''s."


    Yi was also a Chaos Godfiend. He was proficient with the arrow and bow, but he only reached the pinnacle mighty figure level. Back then, Yi was able to occupy a territory in a small region east of the Heavenly realm with his archery skills. He was also known as East Yi.


    "God King, his aura does resemble East Yi''s."


    "He also has a resemblance in looks."


    A few of his subordinates behind him quipped.


    Yi had occupied a tiny piece of territory, but as he was wild and intractable, he was quelled by Zhurong. After all, Zhurong had swept through most of the Heavenly realm back then. Yi was just one of the many lackluster factions that fell to him.


    "Zhurong!"


    The lined-clothed man in the forest roared as he stared at the distant Zhurong. His fervent aura burned even more violently as he did not hesitate to pull his longbow to its limits, strung the arrow on the bowstring, and aimed the arrowhead at Zhurong. He constantly pumped burning Dharmic powers into his bow and arrow, but their might only began to converge.


    The violent aura vanished completely as it was fully converged.


    This was the final calm before the storm.


    "Trying to deal with me?" Zhurong stood in front of Mt. Three Blades and did not move from his spot despite the situation. Without even dodging, he laughed rapturously. "I never expected someone to attack me the moment I got out. Punk, I''ll give you three chances to shoot at me! After the three strikes, I will kill you. I will let the Three Realms know the price for crossing me!"


    Zhurong was invincible beneath the Heavenly Dao realm! Zhurong thought nothing of Hou Yi when he sensed that his Dharmic powers aura was only that of a perfected Great Dao.


    He was God King Zhurong, an entity who could quash an entire world!


    "This time, I''ll show the cultivators who have recently rose to prominence in the Three Realms my means," Zhurong thought to himself. He did not think anything of the bow and arrow since it was unorthodox.


    "Oh?" Zhurong''s pupils constricted.


    "Whoosh."


    An arrow stream flashed and tore through space-time.


    It was an extremely frightening arrow.


    It overwhelmed everything. Even the sun appeared to lose its luster in front of it. All sorts of mighty entities would appear extremely frail before it.


    Any expert who saw this arrow would feel that it was of paramount beauty.


    From afar, Qin Yun and Yang Jian felt as though they saw an arrow. The stunning arrow left a deep, unforgettable impression on their minds. But when they thought about it carefully, they could not recall the trajectory of the arrow at all. Qin Yun was originally very confident of his Misty Rain Array, but when he saw this arrow, he knew that it was impossible for him to defend against it.


    Against such an arrow!


    Even if it was delivered in plain sight, there was no means of escaping.


    "No good!" Zhurong regretted the moment the arrow left the bow as it streaked across the sky.


    He regretted his overconfidence!


    It was too fast!


    Even though Zhurong was already at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, one of the strongest existences ranked just beneath the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor in the Three Realms, he still found the arrow ridiculously fast. Although he vaguely saw the trajectory and was trying his best to evade it while extending his palm to block it¡ª


    "Pfft!"


    A stream of light tore through his chest, blasting a huge hole in it. Terrifying destructive forces spread across his body.


    The color in Zhurong''s face instantly drained as he maniacally attempted to suppress the destructive forces.


    "How is it this powerful?" Zhurong was in disbelief.


    Back when he reigned in supremacy over the Three Realms, he had never seen such a terrifying arrow strike before.


    This strike even made him sense the might of Goddess N¨¹wa''s attack.


    "I''ll die if I receive a few more of these arrows!" Zhurong immediately understood that it was not shameful to be defeated by an existence at the Heavenly Dao realm, but to be defeated by someone of an equivalent realm as him left him furious. However, he instantly made a decision.


    "Escape!"


    He was able to yield if necessary!


    "Quickly leave this area." Zhurong sent a voice transmission to his subordinates as he repressed the destructive forces at his chest while casting his escaping divine power.


    "Thankfully, I focused on escaping arts after being sealed by N¨¹wa. I''ve finally made some large strides in them and this escaping art is definitely one of the best in the Three Realms." Zhurong was very confident.


    "Boom!"


    A fiery stream flashed as he rapidly headed south.


    It was not that he did not wish to tear open space, but that Hou Yi had frozen the Effulgent Great World''s void the moment he took out his bow and arrow. Zhurong was unable to tear it apart in a short amount of time.


    "Escaping?"


    "God King Zhurong is escaping?" Qin Yun and Yang Jian watched with mixed emotions. Zhurong, who had once reigned supreme, was actually being sent fleeing by Hou Yi? He did not even hesitate to escape?


    Guangchengzi and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain did not find it odd at all.


    In the entire Three Realms¡­


    Among the perfected Great Dao existences, Hou Yi was deemed to be the most terrifying one! He was the only one whose attacks could match that of a Heavenly Dao realm entity!


    Over time, the strongest perfected Great Dao existences acknowledged by all were: Mighty God Hou Yi, Ancestral Dragon, and the Buddhist Amita.


    Hou Yi had spared no expense to burn his Dharmic powers to severely injure Zhurong the moment he attacked.


    "God King Zhurong''s escaping art sure is fast. I never heard of him having such powerful escape arts back when he reigned supreme in the Three Realms." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain said to Guangchengzi in surprise via a voice transmission.


    "He had to have made some changes after being imprisoned for so long," replied Guangchengzi via voice transmission. "However, in terms of escaping arts, Zhurong can be ranked in the top three among those that are beneath the Heavenly Dao realm. Hou Yi might not be able to chase up to him even if he burns his Dharmic powers to shoot a second strike."


    "Perhaps he might be able to succeed." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain watched carefully as well.


    ¡­


    "You sure escaped fast! You are even faster than the Celestial Thearch of the ancient demons back then." Hou Yi pricked up his brows as the ferocious glint in his eyes intensified.


    Although he lacked the confidence, he still burned his Dharmic powers and accumulated strength to shoot his second arrow.


    He had waited this day for too long.


    He naturally had to use all his strength.


    "Zhurong is too fast. Hou Yi won''t be able to deliver a third strike. However, forcing Hou Yi to burn his Dharmic powers is quite good too." In a distant plain, a yellow-robed monk watched it remotely and sighed. With a flip of his hand, a puppet appeared. On it were the words ''Yi Yi.'' "Today happens to be the last day of the fatal hex."


    "Hou Yi, die!"


    The yellow-robed monk held the puppet in hand as he held a blood-stained arrowhead and stabbed it at the puppet''s heart.Hou Yi is a mythological Chinese archer. In Chinese lore, when 10 Suns rose from Earth and scorched the fields, turning the world into a wasteland, Houyi shot down 9 of the 10 Suns, leaving the last one alive. His wife, Chang''e, is a lunar deity.

 609 Raging Hatred

    The yellow-robed monk''s hex art was famous in the Three Realms. It was named the ''Nails On The Head, Seven Swords.'' It was a mystic art whose name could change the look on any cultivator''s face in the Three Realms. It was considered the strongest hex art in all of the Three Realms. Although it was said that the Magi were good at hex curses, everything they had was still inferior to this mystic art.


    Even the book that contained this mystic art, the Nails On The Head, Seven Swords Book, could be used to curse mighty figures to death!


    With the him being the creator of the mystic art, he obviously used it to its full potential.


    However, the hexing curse was not omnipotent. If it was used against the Daoist Three Pure Ones or the Buddhist Ancestor Gautama, the effect would be like a breeze gently caressing them carrying no threat whatsoever! To use it against one of the strongest perfected Great Dao existences, Mighty God Hou Yi, even he had to choose a critical moment to deliver the blow.


    "Zhurong!" Hou Yi was burning his Dharmic powers a second time, his body and mind as one as he locked onto the escaping Zhurong.


    He was giving his all for this one arrow strike.


    It needed him to burn his Dharmic powers and also focus fully.


    At that moment, the only thing on his mind was his bow and arrow, as well as his enemy!


    At that moment, no perfected Great Dao existence in the Three Realms would dare provoke Hou Yi. If they did, Hou Yi might end up delivering the blow to the offender instead of Zhurong. That feeling would definitely be a nasty one.


    But at that critical juncture, invisible forces descended upon him¡ª


    "Ah!"


    The hexing curse came out of nowhere.


    Hou Yi could not help but clench his chest and grunt in pain. He felt as though his heart was being torn apart as his Essence Soul suffered a fervent blow.


    "Pfft." Hou Yi spat out a mouthful of blood as the color in his face drained. His Essence Soul began trembling until cracks appeared in them.


    If he was in his usual state, with his Dharmic powers stable and Essence Soul sound, he could instantly resist a hexing curse. However, having burned his Dharmic powers to deliver his first blow, he was drained of a considerable amount of Dharmic powers. His second blow required his body and mind to be one. Being only focused on Zhurong and being completely unprepared, the hex delivered maximum impact.


    "Lu Ya!" Hou Yi let out an angrily bellow. He did not need to think to know that Lu Ya was the perpetrator of the sneak attack.


    Apart from Lu Ya, no one had a hexing curse that could harm him.


    Due to Lu Ya''s sneak attack, Hou Yi was unable to complete his second strike, allowing Zhurong to take the opportunity to escape.


    "Hahaha, to think that someone is still helping me." When Zhurong felt that Hou Yi''s lockdown on space-time had relaxed, he immediately traversed space-time and escaped to another Great World. Only then did he turn back to look at the distant Effulgent Great World. "However, who is this Lu Ya? Why have I never heard of him? From the looks of it, I''ve been imprisoned for too long. There has been too many changes to the Three Realms. One expert after another keeps appearing. At the very least, the one with the bow and arrow is in no way inferior to me in strength. He is possibly even stronger than me."


    Zhurong instantly felt mixed emotions.


    He once reigned supreme, but now, he was dumbfounded from an arrow strike moments after he was released! It made him realize that the times had changed.


    ¡­


    "Lu Ya!" While Hou Yi released his angry bellow, his eyes emitted a golden glow as an invisible wave swept in every direction, instantly allowing him to lock onto the yellow-robed monk in the desolate plains far off.


    "Lu Ya?" Far above on the clouds, Guangchengzi and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain had also discovered the monk.


    Being the focus of attention, the monk was naturally exposed.


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian also noticed him.


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun''s heart stirred. "He was the one who opened Mt. Three Blades'' entrance. Following that, he vanished. Why did he open Mt. Three Blades? Was it to release Zhurong? Now, he has dealt a blow to Hou Yi¡­ What scheme is this Daoist Lu Ya up to?"


    Daoist Lu Ya was a very mysterious person.


    All Three Realms experts would quiver in fear when they heard his name since the person best at delivering sneak attacks in the Three Realms was none other than Daoist Lu Ya.


    "Even Zen Master Ravennest has appeared. From the looks of it, despite becoming a Buddhist so many years ago, he is unable to resolve the hatred in him." A Buddha that emitted limitless brilliance looked from afar as he sighed lightly.


    ¡­


    The moment the monk delivered his attack, it instantly caught the attention of various factions.


    However, he remained staring at Hou Yi, thinking nothing of the dissipating puppet in his hand. Even though he had chosen a rare opportunity, to actually curse Hou Yi to death? That would be a fool''s wish! It was already good enough to severely injure him.


    He flipped his hand and produced a red calabash which floated in midair.


    He stared intently at Hou Yi as he bowed at the red calabash. "May the Treasure Appear!"


    A bright, white light appeared at the calabash''s mouth. Within it was a small person with facial features and wings.


    Shoo!


    With a flash¡ª


    The white beam of light had appeared in front of Hou Yi.


    It was too fast!


    "Immortal Slaying Flying Saber!" Qin Yun, Yang Jian, Guangchengzi, and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain all recognized it.


    The Connate Cardinal treasure, Immortal Slaying Flying Saber, was extremely fast and unpredictable.


    The moment it was released, it would definitely hit its target!


    Hou Yi''s bow was open and aboveboard, domineering and powerful. It was the most terrifying attack among perfected Great Dao existences which reached the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. The Immortal Slaying Flying Saber was naturally slightly weaker, but more unpredictable and sinister.


    "Oh?"


    The white beam of light was just too fast.


    Hou Yi did not have the time to string his bow. All he could do was throw out the longbow in his hand, smashing it right at the white beam of light, tearing apart space in the process.


    However, the white beam scattered upon impact into a set of tiny white beams. Instantly, they penetrated Hou Yi''s body and drilled down into his Essence Soul. The many cracks in his Essence Soul momentarily made Hou Yi feel faint.


    "Lu Ya." Hou Yi was even more enraged.


    He would not have any fear if the Immortal Slaying Flying Saber had sneaked up on him on a normal day.


    However, after being greatly weakened due to the heavy damage inflicted by the hex, he was now faced with the Immortal Slaying Flying Saber''s blow. His injuries only worsened, but for one who cultivated to his present realm, death did not come easily.


    "Hou Yi, you won''t escape." The monk flicked his sleeve as his gigantic yellow robe covered an area, sealing off space-time within.


    Hou Yi was unable to repress his injuries as he coughed out blood again. He did not hesitate to wave his bow and with a boom, he blasted open a deep spatial passageway. Even the yellow robe that sealed off the area could not stop him. Hou Yi immediately took a step forward and escaped. His archery skills had reached the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, and his grasp of space-time was extremely brilliant. At the very least, Zhurong or Lu Ya were inferior to him.


    The monk was unable to stop him from fleeing at the critical moment.


    "He escaped?" The monk was stunned.


    "After so many years of planning, he was still able to tear through my seals despite me delivering two sneak attacks one after another?" He was in disbelief.


    If he had started off with a seal, Hou Yi might have very well shot him with an arrow!


    Therefore, he had to seek the appropriate opportunity to deal the sneak attack, delivering one blow after another. He believed that it was possible to kill Hou Yi with his scheme, and even if Hou Yi did not perish, it would be unlikely Hou Yi could tear open his seal. He was at full strength and completely prepared while Hou Yi was severely injured and nearing death¡­ Hou Yi would only have died if lives were put on the line.


    However¡ª


    Hou Yi was still able to escape despite his heavy injuries!


    The plan he had been preparing for after all these years was for naught.


    Was there anyone left in the Three Realms who was like Zhurong¡ªsomeone who Hou Yi hated enough to burn his Dharmic powers to deal with?


    With this missed opportunity, how much longer did he have to wait?


    "Hou Yi! Hou Yi!" The monk roared into the sky, his voice filled with hatred and indignation.


    "Pfft!"


    The anger got to him as he spewed a mouthful of blood.


    He was disgruntled that the plot he had been planning for years failed.


    "I will kill you one day. Definitely. I will exact revenge on my nine elder brothers!" the monk muttered before taking a step and vanishing from the Effulgent Great World.

 610 Dark Surge Final Chapter of Volume

    A number of experts in the Three Realms had paid attention to the situation. On the clouds nearby, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, Guangchengzi, Yang Jian, and Qin Yun had similarly seen all that had happened.


    "The Nails On The Head, Seven Swords is known as the most powerful hex in the Three Realms," said a baffled Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. "However, according to what I know, it requires twenty-one days of rites to deliver its maximum potential. By scheming against Hou Yi today, Lu Ya must have already begun the rites twenty-one days ago. Was he already aware that Hou Yi would burn his Dharmic powers to deal with Zhurong twenty-one days ago?"


    Guangchengzi nodded as well. "There are many oddities about the opening of Mt. Three Blades. Perhaps it was Lu Ya who opened it."


    "It was him."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Back when Mt. Three Blades was opened, I happened to be cultivating here. I discovered Daoist Lu Ya opening Mt. Three Blades. I was unable to recognize him back then, so all I did was observe carefully. I later noticed Brother Yang enter before Patriarch Blood Sea and a bunch of Ancestral Fiends. Patriarch Blood Sea and company had changed their appearances and had hidden their auras from the heavenly secrets. I was also unable to recognize them back then."


    "That makes sense then." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded. "Zhurong and many Chaos Godfiends were sealed in Mt. Three Blades. Lu Ya is very aware of the vendetta between Zhurong and Hou Yi. Furthermore, Zhurong is sufficiently powerful. He probably predicted that the moment Zhurong was released, Zhurong and Hou Yi would clash in an internecine battle. When that happened, he could deliver a sneak attack and have a chance of killing Hou Yi."


    Guangchengzi roared with laughter. "However, Lu Ya must have never expected that Zhurong would immediately escape instead of fighting for his life after being shot just once!"


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded as well. "Yes, if Zhurong had not been good at an escaping art and thought that escaping wasn''t an option, the only option available would be to take the initiative to attack! With his strength, if he were to really battle Hou Yi, Hou Yi was bound to have been injured. That way¡­ Lu Ya would have definitely succeeded by delivering a sneak attack!"


    "But no one expected that Zhurong had an escape art that can be ranked in the top three of the Three Realms. Perhaps even Lu Ya can not match him despite being a Golden Crow. Furthermore, with him having just escaped imprisonment, it was the best choice for Zhurong to escape, considering how little he knows of the external world. Even if he wanted revenge, it would never be too late to pursuit it in the future," said Guangchengzi.


    A rash clash would only happen if one knew escape was not an option.


    "That''s right. Regardless of who it is, they will rein it in a little after being imprisoned for so long," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian listened attentively.


    "Lu Ya is a Golden Crow¡­" Qin Yun could not help but comment. He knew parts of Lu Ya''s information, but had no idea that he was a Golden Crow.


    "Yes," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain as she looked at Qin Yun. "To prevent Hou Yi from discovering his tracks, Lu Ya has always been very mysterious. Most mighty figures are unaware of his origins. In fact, he was one of the ten Golden Crow princes of the ancient demon''s Heavenly Courts and the only one to have escaped from Hou Yi. The other nine Golden Crows were shot to death by Hou Yi, which resulted in this vendetta. Hou Yi is the number one person in the Three Realms that Lu Ya wants dead."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    The only remaining Golden Crow? How could he not feel hatred after seeing nine of his brothers die in front of him?


    "This Lu Ya first studied the Dao before he studied Buddhism. He has also learned all sorts of unorthodox arts as well," said Guangchengzi. "Therefore, when it comes to comprehensive knowledge, he is considered one of the best in the Three Realms. However, he was still unable to match Hou Yi. However, both of you have to be careful not to offend him. He might not be able to kill Hou Yi, but if he wants to scheme against juniors like yourselves, you would die without even realizing it."


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian nodded in unison.


    At the pinnacle Golden Immortal level, the both of them were truly nothing worth mentioning when placed before Lu Ya who was deemed the best at scheming in the Three Realms.


    "Why did Mt. Three Blades have God King Zhurong sealed inside it?" inquired Yang Jian.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain and Guangchengzi exchanged looks.


    "God King Zhurong is too complicated a person. Therefore, the matter regarding Mt. Three Blades has always been kept secret," said Guangchengzi. "In the early periods of the Three Realms, the Chaos Godfiends vied for supremacy. Back then, the strongest were God Kings Zhurong and Gonggong. After Zhurong defeated Gonggong¡­ Gonggong slammed through Mt. Buzhou in a fit of rage, causing the heavens to collapse. It was Goddess N¨¹wa who mended the heavens. I believe both of you know of this."


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian nodded in unison.


    "The collapse of the heavens back then was one of the greatest calamities the Three Realms faced." Guangchengzi turned wistful. "Mt. Buzhou was a pillar of the heavens! Before breaking through it, the Heavenly realm was even bigger than it is now. Back then in the Three Realms, ninety percent of living beings thrived in the Heavenly realms. Only ten percent were scattered across Small Worlds. The Small Worlds back then were far fewer than there are now.


    "That blow caused the heavens to collapse and crack the Heavenly realm."


    Guangchengzi sighed. "Goddess N¨¹wa had burned her Essence Soul without any regard for her life to mend the heavens. With failure almost at hand, countless cultivators fell into despair. At the final critical moment, Goddess N¨¹wa suddenly received an epiphany and reached the Heavenly Dao realm, successfully mending the heavens and saving the Three Realms. However, more than half the Heavenly realm was in shambles. The large fragments became Great Worlds! The countless tiny fragments became the countless Small Worlds. It also resulted in the sixty dominions we have at present. Now, most of the living beings in the Three Realms are in the sixty dominions while a small number reside in the Heavenly realm.


    "After Goddess N¨¹wa mended the heavens, she killed Gonggong in her rage when she saw that the Heavenly realm had been reduced to countless fragments. She captured Zhurong and his horde of Chaos Godfiends and sealed them all in Mt. Three Blades. She threw Mt. Three Blades into one of the Heavenly realm fragments which gradually took form to become the present Effulgent Great World."


    Qin Yun and Yang Jian were enlightened.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain said, "From Her Majesty''s point of view, Gonggong was the main culprit and deserved death. As for Zhurong and company, they deserved punishment even if death wasn''t warranted for their crimes. Her Majesty had been merciful by giving them a chance to live, or she could have killed them directly back then."


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Manor.


    "That''s what happened." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao sat together drinking tea as he narrated all that had happened in Mt. Three Blades.


    "So all of this was a plot by Daoist Lu Ya. It was because of his vendetta with Hou Yi?" Yi Xiao was enlightened before she sighed. "However, Goddess N¨¹wa sure did a huge meritorious deed. She risked her life to mend the heavens to save the Three Realms! She even created us humans. She even showed pity on Zhurong and company. She truly is compassionate."


    Qin Yun nodded. "Goddess N¨¹wa is indeed impressive. She seldom interferes with matters of the Three Realms these days."


    "Brother Yun."


    Yi Xiao beamed and said, "You are now just short of a perfected Great Dao after your recent breakthrough. If you were to reach the perfected Great Dao, your realm would not be inferior to the Chaos Godfiend, Ze. Furthermore, your Intrinsic Flying Sword has a chance of being nurtured into a Connate Cardinal treasure. With that in hand¡­ you will definitely be able to transcend the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation unlike Ze."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Yea."


    Although he said so, he knew it was very difficult.


    Attaining a perfected Great Dao was very difficult. Nurturing an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was difficult as well. It was still a question if the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation was the last.


    However, all he could do was taking probing steps forward.


    "I have to spend more effort on my defensive measures," thought Qin Yun. "To fend off the Itinerant Immortal tribulation, I''ll have to rely on my Misty Rain Array! Enemy killing is secondary. Defense is of utmost priority. Although I was lucky to have defended against Patriarch Spirit Devouring, there are perfected Great Dao existences who have extremely powerful attacks such as Hou Yi, Mahamayuri, Patriarch Spirit Devouring, or even Guangchengzi who wields the Empyrean Seal¡­ My Misty Rain Array is unlikely able to withstand their attacks."


    "For now, my Misty Rain Array is considered the best defensive array formation among pinnacle Golden Immortals. In the future, it will become the best defensive array formation among perfected Great Dao existences. Only by doing so will I have a chance of transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations," thought Qin Yun.


    ******


    In the middle of a magma lake, a man with disheveled red hair sat cross-legged.


    Gu! Gu! Gu!


    The magma lake constantly bubbled.


    Suddenly, he opened his eyes.


    A woman in a fluttering white dress appeared above the surface of the magma lake, her fair toes stepping onto the magma. She was none other than the female manifestation of the Ancestral Fiend.


    "Black Lotus." Zhurong stood up and looked at the Fiend Ancestor''s manifestation.


    "Isn''t Yi''s son very powerful?" said the Fiend Ancestor with a smile.


    Zhurong nodded. "Yes, he is in no way inferior to me!"


    The Fiend Ancestor smiled. "Zhurong, you just came out, so I believe your cultivation will improve with time. When the time comes, you will be able to repress Hou Yi as well."


    "Cut the pleasantries. Let''s get down to business," said Zhurong. "What''s your goal, considering how you got Blood Sea to release me?"


    "Didn''t we agree to discuss this a thousand years from now?" The Fiend Ancestor smiled. "God King Zhurong, why do you suddenly seem a little anxious?"


    "The times have changed. I think we can chat now." Zhurong looked at the Fiend Ancestor. "Tell me of your motive."


    The Fiend Ancestor beamed as space itself seemed to turn joyous. "What I want is simple. It''s just a lotus seed."


    (End of Volume)

 611 Qin Yuluo

    The massive battle at Mt. Three Blades began with Patriarch Blood Sea''s attacks on two juniors, Yang Jian and Qin Yun. Later, the conflict among God King Zhurong, Hou Yi, and Daoist Lu Ya attracted the attention of experts all across the Three Realms. Of course, Qin Yun was only a minor character in all of this. However, his killing of the few Chaos Godfiends like Wu Zhiqi and his ability to fend off Patriarch Blood Sea with his Misty Rain Array became his first display of his talent, winning him the true attention of the ancient existences of the Three Realms.


    Time passed and in a blink of an eye, two thousand years had passed since that battle. The Three Realms remained calm and there was no further conflict between Zhurong and Hou Yi. As for Daoist Lu Ya, he vanished once again.


    Green Touring Palace, Immortal Vanquishing Hall.


    On the four corners of a floating array graph hung four Connate Divine Swords. Qin Yun had consumed a drop of Samsara Dew as he continued studying the Immortal Vanquishing Array.


    After a long while, he opened his eyes.


    "Five thousand years have passed since I became an Itinerant Immortal. When will I break through this final bottleneck?" Qin Yun frowned slightly. "If a ninth firmament Skyimmortal wishes to become a Golden Immortal, they have to combine all that they know to create their own mastery. If it is sufficiently strong, they would be a half-step Golden Immortal, or might even match that of a mighty figure. Immortal Sa Xu and Ancestral Master Zhang are examples of that.


    "When one accumulates enough insight, they can break through their bottleneck and become a mighty figure. This is the best known method.


    "I''m now stuck in a bottleneck and have been using similar means," thought Qin Yun. "With my present insights, I have created various masteries. Now, my Misty Rain Array¡­ is a lot stronger than it was back at Mt. Three Blades. Even if Patriarch Blood Sea had his Connate Cardinal treasure, the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus, he could forget about cracking it if I focus on defending!"


    He had only just broken through back then.


    Now, he had fused all those insights to create various masteries. The Misty Rain Array and his flying sword arts had been enhanced. His insights into the Qingping Sword had also deepened. The might he delivered had also turned more potent.


    "Few of the ancient existences in the Three Realms can crack my Misty Rain Array, however there are not a small number of those. There are a total of three perfected Great Dao fiends. Among them is Patriarch Blood Sea with his undying body. He is good at resorting to corruptive and vicious underhanded techniques, but he can''t do anything to me. And the strongest King of Myriad Fiends, Great Freedom Fiend King, Boxun. He would not be able to be do anything against me if he were to send his six avatars. But if he were to come in person¡­ I''m definitely not his match. However, it''s quite impossible for him to attack in person." Qin Yun knew very well.


    Boxun was an existence known as the King of Myriad Fiends.


    Before the Buddhist Ancestor Gautama attained the Heavenly Dao realm, Boxun managed to become the sworn enemy of Buddhism all by himself! The war between the fiends and Buddhism had gone on for an excessive period of time.


    Later, Gautama received an epiphany and reached the Heavenly Dao realm! As such, Boxun had no choice but to retreat.


    Even later, the Fiend Ancestor attained the Heavenly Dao as well, becoming the undisputed leader of the fiends. Afterwhich, Boxun reduced his appearance. It was rare for him to take any action at all. His former archenemy, Gautama, and Black Lotus, who used to be weaker than him, had both attained the Heavenly Dao realm. How could Boxun be pleased with that? Although he almost never appeared, his strength was not to be doubted.


    Of course, the chance of Boxun attacking Qin Yun was the lowest.


    Due to the few fiendish existences, Boxun was the proudest. Ages had passed since the days when he acted freely. It was already considered rare if he sent his six avatars to handle situations in the Three Realms.


    "Among the three perfected Great Dao fiendish existences, the one that poses the greatest threat to me is Patriarch Spirit Devouring. His devouring means top the Three Realms. Even the Misty Rain Array might be devoured and chewed to bits by him," thought Qin Yun.


    Although his strength had increased significantly, he still had to be wary.


    Perhaps only by attaining a perfected Great Dao could he have the confidence to view all experts belonging the Heavenly Dao realm beneath him.


    "Tomorrow is the day of my Itinerant Immortal tribulation. It''s time to return for it." Qin Yun got up and left the Immortal Vanquishing Hall.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm. In a wing of Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor.


    Qin Yuluo sat by the window, watching fishes swim in a pond in the yard outside.


    "What should I do?


    "A step forward results in intense battles, but all will be fine if I take a step back. Should I proceed forward or retreat?


    "If I proceed, it might be huge trouble for the Qin family! I would be too selfish that way." Qin Yuluo always had a figure in her heart. But now that she knew more, she was in a dilemma.


    "Sister Phoenix Voice is a descendant of the Sagedemon Nine Phoenix and also a disciple of the Demon Emperor Bai Ze. She clearly threatened me to stay away from Brother Meng. Although Brother Meng is extremely good to me, he is fully focused on cultivation and the missions his master has given him. He has never expressed his feelings towards me. Perhaps, it has always been one-sided on my part?


    "Grandfather has been grooming me in hopes that I will become the pillar of support for the Qin family. In the future, if Grandfather fails to transcend the tribulations, I will be needed to keep the Qin family going. How can I bring trouble to my family? Furthermore, Grandfather''s cultivation is of utmost priority now. How can I disturb him with my trivial romantic relations?" Qin Yuluo was vexed.


    "Brother Meng''s master is the Human Sovereign Fuxishi. Sister Phoenix Voice is Demon Emperor Bai Ze''s disciple. She has been pursuing Brother Meng all this while¡­ it might be that she has ulterior motives.


    "This isn''t something I should involve Grandfather in.


    "Take a step back.


    "Take a step back."


    Qin Yuluo muttered to herself.


    "I just need to endure for several thousand years. If Grandfather succeeds in transcending the tribulations, I can try competing! Now, I can only take a step back!" Qin Yuluo''s thoughts kept churning.


    Although reason had made her decide to take a step back, her heart felt tormented.


    "Boom!"


    "Oh?" Qin Yuluo heard a rumbling thunder as she walked out of her room in puzzlement. She looked into the distance and saw tribulation clouds forming in the sky at the back of the mountains. Qin Yuluo did a calculation. "This is Grandfather''s fifth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. For Grandfather, the threat truly begins once the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation comes."


    The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation required the strength of a perfected Great Dao to withstand it.


    The twelfth tribulation¡­ had not been survived by anyone to date. The only one who attempted to face it was Chaos Godfiend, Ze. However, he failed and reincarnated.


    Qin Yuluo walked towards the mountains.


    Soon, she saw her grandmother, Yi Xiao.


    "Yuluo." Yi Xiao smiled at Qin Yuluo. "Just wait a little longer. Your grandfather''s tribulation will soon end."


    Qin Yuluo nodded obediently.


    "You will have to stay at home longer this time. Although it''s important to adventure outside, you can''t always be outside," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Grandmother, I plan on staying at home for quite a long while. I''ll definitely spend more time with you." Qin Yuluo beamed.


    "Our Fairy Yuluo is finally willing to accompany her grandmother?" Yi Xiao was rather happy.


    At that moment, Qin Yun walked over from the back of the mountains. He arrived in a few steps.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo ran over immediately and embraced Qin Yun''s arm in a rather affectionate manner.


    "Yuluo said that she will be spending some time at home to accompany me," said Yi Xiao with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up when he heard that. He nodded and said, "That''s right. Yuluo, you have often adventured outside to hone yourself. To reach the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal truly is rare. However, cultivation requires the complementation of both Motion and Stillness. You can''t be adventuring all the time. You should cultivate peacefully at home. I can also take the opportunity to teach you well."


    "Grandfather, you plan on teaching me?" Qin Yuluo revealed a look of glee before she said immediately, "Grandfather, your cultivation is very important. You can''t waste your time on me."


    "Brother Yun, your cultivation¡­" said Yi Xiao as well.


    "Teaching juniors is a form of cultivation as well," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Many mighty figures are powerful themselves, but they are unable to verbalize it or teach disciples. To simplify the profound Great Dao for the teaching of disciples isn''t an easy task. It''s also a rare form of cultivation."


    Qin Yun was now stuck at a bottleneck.


    He was also thinking of using various means of gathering insight to better his breakthrough.


    Teaching disciples was one of those means.


    "Alright! I''ll definitely pay attention to your teachings, Grandfather." Qin Yuluo was filled with anticipation.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. He was especially fond of this granddaughter of his. Furthermore, she was extremely perceptive. This was evident from how Perfected Jade Tripod wished to take her in as a disciple. She had reached the half-step Golden Immortal realm after several millennia of cultivation. Although that progress did not make her a freak of nature in the Three Realms like Qin Yun and Yang Jian, she could be considered a genius. Qin Yun naturally wished to offer her all his help.


    Although he had friends to take care of his family if he failed at transcending his tribulation, it was still better to have his family strong. Qin Yun believed that Qin Yuluo was the future pillar of support for the Qin family.

 612 Guidance

    Early the next morning.


    Somewhere on the mountain peak of Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yun watched his granddaughter and said with a smile, "Yuluo, haven''t you reached the half-step Golden Immortal realm? Show me the most powerful sword art you know at present."


    His son Meng Huan and daughter Qin Yiyi had talent in sword arts. Now, they were at the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. That was already considered quite an impressive feat. The more mediocre disciples of Green Touring Palace were at this level as well, and they were able to reign supreme in the Small Worlds they occupied. However, they would appear ordinary when placed against the backdrop of the entire Three Realms. Qin Yun was helpless regarding this.


    If he had the time, he could naturally slowly groom Huan''er and Yiyi.


    But now, it was better to spend his time on grooming Yuluo.


    "Yes, Grandfather." Qin Yuluo was dressed in a warm-white robe. She waved her hand and with a whoosh, seven flying swords flew out from her sleeve. The seven flying swords were extremely sharp and seemed to possess an intelligence of their own. They naturally formed a sword array in midair as she began demonstrating her various moves.


    The sword array demonstrated its killing abilities, its ability to confuse the enemy, and acted as a means to defend herself.


    Sword Qi surged everywhere as the moves showed a mystical nature. The various moves won Qin Yun''s gentle nod.


    It was no wonder even Perfected Jade Tripod had thoughts of taking her as a disciple. His granddaughter was indeed very talented in the Sword Dao.


    "Sword immortals nurture an Intrinsic Flying Sword and what they figure out is more about the means to deal with enemies using a flying sword," thought Qin Yun. "Although it is extremely powerful, their sword array arts would typically be weaker. Yuluo is not a sword immortal, but she is bent on controlling multiple flying swords. However, having multiple flying swords holds an intrinsic advantage when it comes to setting up an array."


    The sword immortal lineage which Qin Yun created himself was not sufficiently complete; therefore, he did not make Qin Yuluo learn it.


    "My Misty Rain Sword is relatively special. Only after it became a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure could it split into three. However, that only allows for an array to be set up by three flying swords. As for Yuluo, she has seven flying swords to form an array. It''s even possible for her to use more flying swords," thought Qin Yun. "If she were to use seven flying swords to cast my Sword Dao, I wonder what will happen."


    This was how teaching disciples should be.


    A good teacher would teach their students in accordance with their aptitude!


    Qin Yuluo was good at using seven flying swords simultaneously, so this made Qin Yun consider solutions to allow his granddaughter to go further on her current path.


    "Grandfather, how was it?" Qin Yuluo beckoned with her hand and retracted the seven flying swords as she looked at Qin Yun with excitement. She was truly quite infatuated with sword arts or she would not have her present day achievements. She idolized her grandfather the most.


    "Not bad."


    As Qin Yun watched from the side, he had seen many areas in which the set of sword array arts could be improved. "I''ll demonstrate your sword array art a few times as well. Watch carefully."


    With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    Blurry Sword Qi materialized into seven flying swords.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun cast his granddaughter''s sword art in the same manner. By the side, Qin Yuluo watched intently, occasionally revealing a look of puzzlement, excitement, or clenching of teeth¡­ Clearly, she was completely enthralled.


    Qin Yun repeated the demonstration nine times.


    There were variations each time.


    During the ninth time¡­ the sword array''s might had already reached a level that matched that of a mighty figure.


    After dispersing the Sword Qi, Qin Yun discovered that his granddaughter was completely immersed in thought. This continued for half a day.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo finally snapped back to reality as she felt that there her mind had been exposed to many new insights. She was filled with gratitude.


    "How much did you absorb?" inquired Qin Yun.


    Qin Yuluo said in excitement, "Grandfather, you demonstrated nine times. You changed three aspects of my sword array art the first time. The changes continued the second time¡­ There were changes every time and their might kept increasing. By the ninth time, the sword array art had already matched that of a mighty figure."


    Due to the tiny changes in each of the nine demonstrations, Qin Yuluo was able to clearly recognize her flaws.


    "Grandfather, you are too awesome. Way too awesome!" Qin Yuluo was thrilled.


    "It''s good to understand, but to fully comprehend it is another matter," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Putting theory to practice is always difficult, so don''t get too excited."


    With Qin Yun''s high Sword Dao realm, he was operating from a commanding height, so he could easily remould Qin Yuluo''s sword art completely.


    "Yes." Qin Yuluo nodded in excitement.


    ¡­


    In the Great Freedom Fiend world.


    Dressed in tattered robes, an unkempt man with disheveled hair sat casually on a rock above a desolate mountain peak. He suddenly looked up and saw a white-dressed woman. It was as though she was the most beautiful woman in the Three Realms. Her fair toes were bare as she stood in midair, watching the man smilingly.


    "Black Lotus, don''t use your female form for no apparent reason. You won''t be able to entice me. It will only make me feel disgust," said the man with a frown.


    "Boxun," said the white-dressed woman with a smile. "I need your help on a matter."


    "You are requesting my help?"


    Boxun knitted his brows.


    He was once the strongest fiend and was formerly Buddhist Ancestor Gautama''s archenemy¡ªFiend King Boxun. However, Boxun kept an extremely low profile these days.


    "What is it that requires you, the Fiend Ancestor, to lower yourself to seek my help?" asked Boxun with a scoff.


    "I have made a deal with Zhurong," said the white-dressed woman. "As long as I hand him a Torch Flame Kindling, he will pass me the lotus seed."


    "The price of the Torch Flame Kindling is not comparable to that lotus seed, right?" said Boxun.


    The white-dressed woman nodded. "Yes, although the Torch Flame Kindling is extremely precious, it is indeed incomparable to that lotus seed. However, I got Blood Sea to release him, allowing him to escape imprisonment from Mt. Three Blades. He owes me a great amount of karma! While owing me karma¡­ and me requesting the lotus seed, he only raised one condition. He wanted to exchange it for the Torch Flame Kindling. He also said that he will give me three thousand years! If I''m unable to succeed in three thousand years, he will seek Suirenshi  of the humans and exchange the lotus seed with them. I believe Suirenshi will be happy to make the trade."


    "Now two thousand years of that three thousand years have passed," said the white-dressed woman. "I have thought of all means, but have not been able to obtain the Torch Flame Kindling."


    "Suirenshi is one of the humans'' Three Sovereigns. He spent great time and effort to condense one Torch Flame Kindling; yet, you want to obtain it?" said Boxun with a scoff. "To exchange it with a lotus seed, the human''s Three Sovereigns will naturally be willing to do the trade, but if it''s anything else, the human''s Three Sovereigns might not even bother."


    The woman shook her head. "I know, so I temporarily have no intention of making the deal with the human''s Three Sovereigns. I am seeking your help to think of means to obtain it."


    "When it comes to manipulating people¡­ although Patriarch Mental Demon is formidable in that aspect, he is still inferior to you." The white-dressed woman looked at Boxun.


    Boxun did not say a word.


    The entity which Buddhist cultivators feared the most was not Patriarch Mental Demon but him, Boxun! Patriarch Mental Demon was only a pinnacle Ancestral Fiend while Boxun controlled the Great Dao of the Six Desires. He had reached the perfected Great Dao realm a long time ago and had been lurking away from the public eye for long. The various factions in the Three Realms had no idea how Boxun was at present. It would not be a surprise even if he were to break through to the Heavenly Dao realm one day.


    "The human''s Three Sovereigns are not to be provoked. What price are you paying to get my help?" Boxun shot a glance at the Fiend Ancestor''s female form.


    "As long as you accomplish it, I can give you all of the three flowers you have always been wanting."


    "All of them?"


    A glint flashed in the deep recesses of Boxun''s eyes as he nodded gently. "Alright, I''ll help you."


    "I''ll give you eight centuries. If you are unable to accomplish it, I''ll have to think of other means."


    "Don''t worry." Boxun nodded calmly.


    The white-dressed woman left with a smile.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Manor.


    Qin Yun was guiding his granddaughter with dedication. He even attempted to use seven flying swords to demonstrate his Sword Dao. He also discovered that the Seven Stars Art he once created was quite suitable to be integrated with the seven-sword sword array. The moment he fused it, it made the sword array even more unfathomable and unpredictable. Its might increased drastically. When using it to demonstrate his Sword Dao, it allowed Qin Yun''s Sword Dao to produce more variations.


    "Yuluo, I have been teaching you for two centuries." Qin Yun stood on a the mountain peak as he looked as his granddaughter. Fog lingered around him, appearing quite desolate.


    "You have been cultivating on the mountains for the past two centuries, but my Sword Dao is comprised of the Heaven, Earth, and Man. It requires you to take a good look at the Heaven and Earth and this world of mortals," said Qin Yun. "Next, we''ll be going down the mountain together to travel the world. We will practice our swordplay together."


    "Yes," Qin Yuluo answered immediately, but she could not help but ask, "Grandfather, you have taught me for so long. Won''t it disrupt your cultivation?"


    "There''s no need for you to worry about that," Qin Yun said.


    Ever since he infused his Seven Stars Art into the seven-sword sword array and attempted to fuse it into his Sword Dao, Qin Yun had vaguely sensed some changes.


    He had a feeling that he would benefit from it if he continued.


    Subsequently¡­


    Qin Yun led his granddaughter, Qin Yuluo, down the mountain and they began traveling the world, practicing their sword arts along the way.Suiren appears in Chinese mythology and is credited as a culture hero who introduce humans to the production of fire and its use for cooking.

 613 Seven Star Sword Dao

    On a boat.


    The two lofty mountains that lined the sides of the valley river made it seem like a sword had cleaved open the landform. Qin Yuluo stood at the bow, looking rather spirited. She immediately said, "Grandfather, Grandfather, the locals say that this was cleaved open by L¨¹ Dongbin with one sword strike. Is it true?" Qin Yun was sitting cross-legged at the stern as he pondered with a frown. He held a book in one hand, and a brush in another. Occasionally, he would write something into the book, completely ignoring his granddaughter.


    "Grandfather, what are you writing?" Qin Yuluo came to the stern and asked curiously.


    "I instructed you to practice your sword art; has there been any progress?" Qin Yun returned with a question instead.


    Qin Yuluo immediately spoke softly, "Grandfather, the sword art is a little difficult."


    "This is a sword art that originated from Starlord Covetous Wolf. It is a sword array art I created after extracting its essence. It is very beneficial for you, so you must practice it well. Don''t waste your time on all sorts of other things." Qin Yun glared at her.


    "Oh." Qin Yuluo shot a curious glance at the book in Qin Yun''s hand before obediently heading to the bow where she released seven flying swords with a wave of her hand and practiced her sword arts.


    The corners of Qin Yun''s mouth could not help but suffuse a smile. As he looked at the lass, he began thinking again.


    "While teaching Yuluo for the past two centuries, I have been focusing on studying the Seven Stars Mystic Art and have perfected it greatly. Yet the Seven Stars Mystic Art is still too weak to emulate my Sword Dao¡­" Qin Yun shook his head gently.


    The Seven Stars Mystic Art was strictly a part of the Seven Stars Great Dao.


    The seven stars referred to the seven stars of the Big Dipper. They held an extremely high standing in the Stellar Heavenly Cycle, and the Seven Stars Great Dao was also a part of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle Great Dao. As for the Stellar Heavenly Cycle Great Dao, it was at the perfected Great Dao level, which meant that the Seven Stars Great Dao was only at the pinnacle Great Dao level. While constantly trying to perfect the Seven Stars Mystic Art, Qin Yun hoped that he could one day get his practice of the Seven Stars Mystic Art to the level of the Seven Stars Great Dao.


    However, a pinnacle Great Dao¡­


    Was clearly not that easily attained.


    Qin Yun now grasped three pinnacle Great Dao¡ªhis Sword Dao, the Great Dao of Heaven, and the Great Dao of Earth¡ªall which took him great difficulty to master. The most crucial Great Dao of Man was still stuck in a bottleneck.


    "Forget it. I can''t be too demanding," said Qin Yun softly. "Let me finish writing the first volume first."


    ¡­


    On the boat, Qin Yun was writing.


    They found an inn in a bustling city, and even late at night in the inn, Qin Yun was still writing.


    In the wilderness, they would cast their Dharmic powers to create a temporary residence, but Qin Yun would still be writing.


    Throughout the first ten years of leading his granddaughter around the world, Qin Yun would occasionally write.


    "I have already bought this store that faces the street." In a human city, Qin Yun looked at a bookstore and said, "We will be living here from today."


    "Grandfather? You bought this store? Are we going to stay here for long?" asked Qin Yuluo in astonishment.


    "Take this."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and handed her a book.


    "This is?" Qin Yuluo''s eyes lit up. She recognized at a glance that this was the book which Qin Yun often wrote for the past ten years.


    On the cover were the four words¡ªSeven Stars Sword Dao!


    "Haven''t you always wanted to read it?" said Qin Yun with a smile. "This is the first volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao I created. What should be taught is in this book. Stay here for a period of time and cultivate well. Ask me if you are really stumped."


    "Yes." Qin Yuluo''s eyes beamed.


    ¡­


    The bookstore faced the street and behind it was a residence.


    From that day forth, Qin Yun became a book store''s boss. He led a carefree life selling books while Qin Yuluo focused on studying the Seven Stars Sword Dao. Qin Yun had created it for her.


    While leisurely selling books, Qin Yun similarly held a book and would occasionally write in it. He was attempting to write the second volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao. After all, the first volume''s deduction of the Sword Dao was rather rudimentary. The second volume was tens if not a hundred times harder. Qin Yun would occasionally have a spark of inspiration before writing a bit more.


    Similarly, he was constantly consuming Samsara Dew, making his efficiency higher.


    He was a bookstore owner for twenty years.


    "It''s time we leave." One day, Qin Yun closed up the bookstore.


    "Grandfather, we have been here for twenty years. I will kind of miss this place," said Qin Yuluo.


    "Is it because you''ll miss that young disciple of yours?" asked Qin Yun with a smile. "We came here to focus on practicing your sword, but you ended up taking in a disciple."


    "I just took him in passing," said Qin Yuluo immediately.


    "Let''s go," Qin Yun said and left with Qin Yuluo.


    That afternoon, the youth went through to the bookstore to the backyard, only to discover that his female master had left behind a letter and three cultivation manuals.


    "Master." The youth held the letter and three cultivation manuals.


    "Mt. Lightning Roar Qin Manor?" The youth took out a tiny wooden puppet. Qin Yuluo had given it to him back when he first met Qin Yuluo as a toddler.


    "Master, I''ll definitely visit Mt. Lightning Roar when my cultivation reaches the Skyimmortal realm," said the youth softly.


    ******


    Qin Yun brought his granddaughter on a cloud as they flew above a vast sky. However, his mind was on the Yang family youth.


    Qin Yuluo had taken in a disciple under his nose.


    If he had not agreed to it¡­ it would be impossible for the two of them to have a master-disciple relationship.


    "That fellow''s future is made more indiscernible by taking Yuluo as his master," thought Qin Yun. "The past is easily inferred, but the future is unpredictable."


    The future had yet to happen.


    Everything was possible.


    He could only clearly infer the future of mediocre and ordinary people. The ones with greater potential were difficult to predict. For instance, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure took in so many disciples, but nearly all of them had futures which were unpredictable. However, it still resulted in most of them being average. The ones who could really succeed to become mighty figures were just few and far between.


    "Cang City?" Qin Yuluo suddenly saw a distant city as she felt her heart palpitate. "Without realizing it, I''ve come to Cang City again? Brother Meng should still be there, right?"


    She yearned to ignore everything and head for Cang City directly.


    However, she recalled her decision.


    "Sister Phoenix Voice has clearly threatened me. I had already made the decision that I should not implicate Grandfather because of this matter. Since I''ve made that decision, I cannot regret it." With that, Qin Yuluo stopped looking at Cang City; however, Qin Yun was looking at her. He sensed the emotional upheavals Qin Yuluo had just experienced. However, he did not ask more. He continued steering the cloud south to their next destination.


    ¡­


    Cang City.


    "It can''t be that coincidental. Thousands of years have passed since I cultivated from a Small World to where I am now. My wife¡ªa mortal¡ªhas already gone through Samsara numerous times. Back when I checked the records of life and death, I saw that my wife has reincarnated more than a hundred times. She is no longer herself." On a tall building, a tall man frowned slightly as he read. He was feeling frustrated.


    "When in Samsara, memories are wiped away. She is no longer her past self.


    "Stop thinking about it! Meng Fu!"


    The tall man threw the book in frustration.


    He was now a Golden Immortal mighty figure. He was the disciple of Fuxishi, one of the Three Sovereigns of Fire Cloud Palace! Fire Cloud Palace was famous throughout the Three Realms. In terms of influence, it was almost on par with the Daoists and Buddhist factions. Fire Cloud Palace was one of the main reasons why humans were able to become the most powerful race in the Three Realms. Fire Cloud Palace''s strength was unfathomable and was able to completely oppress existences such as the demons'' Demon Emperor Bai Ze. Be it the demons'' combat strength of their highest echelons or their potential, they were exceeded by humans in every aspect.


    While he reeled in frustration, elsewhere in Cang City.


    A thin man looked from the distance as a smile suffused the corners of his mouth. Entrenched in his mind was an avatar of Fiend King Boxun.


    "Hahaha, I''m just shy of the final step. This Meng Fu will be the first nail I''ll inset into Fire Cloud Palace." Boxun was filled with confidence.

 614 Canst Be Forgotten, Canst Give It Up

    Qin Yun continued bringing his granddaughter around on an experiential training trip. Simultaneously, he would record down any new insights he received, as a form of accumulation for the Seven Stars Sword Dao''s second volume.


    And in Cang City.


    Golden Immortal Meng Fu''s obsession kept affecting him.


    "Brother Meng. Brother Meng." A young girl came to a pavilion tower, and ran up the stairs with great familiarity. The old servants in the building did not stop her despite seeing her do so.


    Upstairs.


    Meng Fu sat cross-legged as he read from the pile of books placed beside him.


    "Brother Meng, you are still reading?" said the girl with a smile.


    "That''s right, Yanyan." Meng Fu looked at the girl and could not help but suffuse a warm, gentle smile.


    The girl''s temperament, looks, and bearing¡­


    They were identical to his memories. She just had an immortal air to her.


    "Ah Yan, I chanced upon this young lady named Ni Yan in Cang City. She was only fifteen then and I felt that she bore a strong resemblance to you. I never expected the resemblance to increase the older she became. Her bearing, the way she gets angry is just like you. Even her name is very similar. Although I''ve cultivated for tens of thousands of years, I can''t forget the twenty years when we were husband and wife.


    "You married me and shared my burdens.


    "When I was conscripted, you stayed alone at home to keep the family going while serving my old mother.


    "I still remember the letters we wrote down to the words.


    "In winter, the wounds from your cracking fingers.


    "In bed, you curled up into my embrace due to the cold weather.


    "When you were ill, I stayed by your side daily. I''ve remembered every detail all this while.


    "We were a married couple, but I hate myself for being useless. I failed to give you true bliss. I was also drifting along in the mortal world. My mother passed away, and after you died from illness, I gave up all my mortal baggage and entered the mountains, preparing to die of old age alone. I never expected I would gain an immortal affinity and manage to cultivate to my present realm.


    "I have always wished to find you again.


    "To repay all that I owe you, but I did not have the chance. You had reincarnated several times and lost yourself to Samsara. Your memories were no longer around, and you were no longer you.


    "I had long decided to bury you in my heart and not dwell on the matters of the past. However, when this Miss Ni Yan appeared before me, she really looked identical to when you were young; before you married me¡­" Meng Fu thought to himself. "I could not stop myself from thinking of you daily. When I see her, my thoughts of you only intensify.


    "I thought of leaving Cang City and that perhaps it would be better not seeing her. But I couldn''t bear the thought, so I have been here all this while."


    They were a married couple for twenty years during his mortal days.


    His feelings for his wife had become an obsession he found impossible to forget all this while.


    No matter how powerful his cultivation became, he still was unable to forget.


    "Brother Meng, I''ll be out participating in an experiential training with my other fellow disciples." The young girl was a little excited. "This is the first time I''ll be dealing with demons despite being so old."


    "Dealing with demons?" Meng Fu nodded gently.


    "It''s a demon that eats humans. It''s likely at the second firmament Essence Soul realm. With a few of my fellow disciples working together, that demon will not escape," Ni Yan said in excited anticipation.


    "You have to be careful," said Meng Fu with a smile.


    "Hmm."


    Ni Yan nodded. "I came to inform you, Brother Meng. I have to return to prepare."


    Ni Yan had acquainted herself with this Brother Meng when she was fifteen. He had helped her several times and had even saved her life. She naturally shared a close tie with him.


    Meng Fu watched as Ni Yan went down the building and left.


    ¡­


    Just three days later.


    "No!"


    In the pavilion building, Meng Fu, who was still reading the array graphs in the books, had a drastic change in expression. He vanished from his spot with Major Void Transference.


    Soon.


    Thousands of kilometers away from Cang City.


    A wolf demon that secretly cultivated in an evil Dharmic formulation released a calabash and sucked the souls of five cultivators nearby into it.


    "Hahaha, I have collected five souls at the Essence Soul realm. With another three hundred, my Soul Calabash will be enough to finish refining the twelve Guardian Godfiends." The wolf demon was overjoyed. The Heavenly realm was extremely vast. He had secretly schemed against a few Essence Soul fellows but was not killing mortals. The sin cultivators derived from killing each other was trivial.


    However, matters such as soul refinement were overly evil. It was denounced by many, so he had to be careful.


    After all, even if cultivators died, they still hoped to redo things through reincarnation.


    However, soul refinement basically severed one''s hopes of reincarnating. It was why it was so condemned.


    "You''re courting death!"


    With an angry bellow, the wolf demon felt a terrifying wave envelop him. The invisible aura left him unable to move as he widened his eyes in horror.


    He saw someone appear in front of him out of thin air. The person stretched his hand out and grabbed the soul refinement calabash from the wolf demon''s hand.


    "You actually dare to refine souls?" Meng Fu revealed an anxious look.


    "Yanyan, Yanyan." Meng Fu instantly took control of the soul refinement calabash.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The soul refinement calabash released fifteen specters which were still fighting one another. One of them was in the form of Ni Yan. She was biting the other souls with a ferocious look. When the other soul fragments entered her body, her soul turned chaotic. These specters'' wills were turning mixed and complicated.


    "Yanyan, Yanyan." Meng Fu immediately used his Dharmic powers to protect Ni Yan''s chaotic soul. "I will save you."


    He attempted reforming Ni Yan''s soul; however, Ni Yan''s soul was already in shambles. Furthermore, she had fused with the other soul fragments. The advent of any fusion made it difficult for Meng Fu to reverse the process.


    He was already considered lucky to find her in this state.


    Such newly absorbed souls were usually unable to defeat the specters that had been nurtured in the soul refinement calabash for years. It was very common for them to be eaten up upon contact. But now, Ni Yan''s soul had actually managed to consume the other souls and was partially still in existence. That was quite a remarkable feat.


    "Whoosh~"


    The soul fragments contained some of her memories of her life.


    The further the memories were from the present, the more blurred they became.


    This was also why numerous reincarnations would wear down one''s memories.


    "This is¡­"


    Meng Fu was taken aback.


    In one of the soul fragments in Ni Yan''s incomplete form, he saw a woman washing clothes by the river. When she looked up and saw her husband who had returned ten years after the war, she cried in agitation.


    "Ah Yan."


    After lifetimes of frittering and having memories wiped through reincarnation, the few scenes which were left behind were the most impressionable ones. Clearly, the scene of waiting for her husband to return from the war for ten years had left the deepest imprint on her.


    "She is Ah Yan''s reincarnation?" Meng Fu was completely stunned.


    "T-This¡­ Why didn''t I do a thorough investigation!? Like a fool, I believed that Ah Yan had reincarnated too many times and that I cannot awaken her original memories. I thought I shouldn''t disturb her any further. Even though I noticed how Yanyan looks like Ah Yan¡­ and even suspected she was a reincarnation of Ah Yan, I still foolishly decided to let Yanyan live her own life.


    "I did not even check if she''s Ah Yan''s reincarnation.


    "I felt that I had to let go.


    "But wasn''t my staying in Cang City a result of me being unable to let go? I''m just fooling myself!


    "What do I do? What do I do? Ah Yan, how am I to save you?"


    Meng Fu reeled in anxiety.


    And deep in Ni Yan''s soul, the souls she had consumed were fusing with her in an unstoppable manner. She was slowly turning more belligerent.


    "I can''t save her. I can''t save her. Even as a Golden Immortal, I can only watch this helplessly.


    "I''ll never be able to save her.


    "Back when I saw Ah Yan pass away, I was helpless. Today, I''m just as helpless. How useless I am." Meng Fu''s obsession over the past tens of thousands of years reached an intense maximum. Emotions of regret and guilt filled his heart.


    Meng Fu turned to look at the wolf demon beside him. "How dare you cultivate in such evil arts?"


    "I wanted to refine the twelve Guardian Godfiends." The wolf demon was burning with anxiety. "Senior, please spare me!"


    "Twelve Guardian Godfiends? You want to refine Ah Yan into a Guardian Godfiend? You deserve death!" Meng Fu''s eyes were fill with a ferocity. A terrifying might swept through the wolf demon as he instantly disintegrated in horror and despair.


    At the instant the wolf demon disintegrated, an invisible energy bore right into Meng Fu''s body.


    Meng Fu was going through intense emotional upheavals, as though it provided the perfect breeding ground for this power which fused within him.


    "Hahaha, I''ve succeeded. It is when he is feeling intense emotions that his Dao heart will reveal a flaw. It allowed my avatar of lust to easily fuse with him. In a few years, I''ll be able to full control him." King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun, rejoiced in Meng Fu''s mind. As for Meng Fu, he did not sense any problems at all as he wallowed in misery.


    A perfected Great Dao existence could easily scheme against an ordinary Golden Immortal. If his goal was not to infiltrate the human''s Three Sovereigns'' Fire Cloud Palace, there was no need for him to go through such troubles.


    ******


    Qin Yuluo did not know that the Brother Meng she thought of keenly had suffered this calamity. She was still obediently practicing according to Qin Yun''s arrangements.


    In the blink of an eye.


    Qin Yun had taught his granddaughter for 530 years. This day, they were walking on a path amid the concluding sunset.


    "Yuluo." Qin Yuluo looked to the side as he waved his hand, sending a residential building to land on the desolate plains by the side of a road. "Let''s stay here for today."


    "Yes, Grandfather." Qin Yuluo revealed a look of glee.


    That night.


    Qin Yun sat in his room with the book placed in front of him, ruminating over what he should write next. Much time had passed, but Qin Yun had not been able to finish the second volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao. It was still very far from his objective.


    Frogs croaked outside in a symphony as the cold night breeze blew into the room.


    Qin Yun listened to the ribbits as he looked up and over. He saw a sky filled with stars. The scene made him recall the days when he lived in the village as a child.


    He put down his brush and walked out the room.


    Standing in the yard, he looked up at the star-filled sky. Be it the Great Chang world or the Heavenly realm, the star-filled sky looked the same, just like the eye-catching dipper that formed the seven stars of the Big Dipper.


    "Seven stars¡­" Qin Yun looked at the Big Dipper as his state of mind was thrown back to the times when he looked up as a child back in the village.


    It was no longer a state of mind that focused on cultivation.


    Instead, it was a state of mind that resembled unsophisticated nature.


    However, it gave Qin Yun a baffling inspiration.


    "Boom!"


    After teaching his granddaughter for more than five centuries, the insights he received on a daily basis had accumulated to an extreme. The inspiration that Qin Yun suddenly had naturally transformed into a full-bodied system.


    A Great Dao surfaced in Qin Yun''s mind.


    Qin Yun felt pleasantly surprised as a thought flashed past his mind. "While guiding Yuluo''s cultivation, I ended up figuring out the Seven Stars Great Dao!"


    Yes, he had been stuck at a bottleneck in his attempt to figure out the Great Dao of Man. Yet, on this very night, he had naturally figured out a pinnacle Great Dao, the Seven Stars Great Dao.

 615 Breakthrough

    Qin Yun flipped his hand and retrieved a black jade bottle. He first consumed a drop of Samsara Dew before sitting cross-legged and closing his eyes.


    Without being disturbed by anything of the external world, he immersed himself completely in cultivation.


    Having just broken through, it was the best time to cultivate.


    All these years, Qin Yun had been studying the charms of the Seven Stars and had repeatedly attempted to fuse the Seven Stars Mystic Art into his Sword Dao. He was using this brand new angle to deduce his Sword Dao in a different way. He had even finished writing the Seven Stars Sword Dao''s first volume. He had also been attempting to write the second volume all these years; therefore, Qin Yun had many ideas about fusing the Seven Stars Great Dao with his own Sword Dao.


    And now, the Seven Stars Great Dao had been achieved! He naturally attempted to fuse it with his Sword Dao.


    Originally, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao referred to the the three Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man. Only by fully comprehending the Great Dao of Man would his Sword Dao achieve perfection. However, what was next after achieving perfection? As he had been taught by his master, the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, he also knew from what the books wrote¡­


    Qin Yun knew very well¡­


    Above the perfected Great Dao was the Heavenly Dao realm!


    What was the Heavenly Dao realm?


    As the saying goes, the Dao begets One, One begets Two, Two begets Three, Three begets all things. The Heavenly Dao referred to the principle regarding the manifestation of all things and the inference of their evolution.


    To figure out One, Two, and Three was not considered difficult. It was the figuring out of all things that was difficult!


    For instance, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain''s Limitless Great Dao or the Emperor Polestar''s Stellar Heavenly Cycle Great Dao, Mighty God Zhurong''s Connate Fire Great Dao, and Human Sovereign Fuxishi''s Eight Trigrams Great Dao¡­ These were the most basic principles of the Heavenly Dao. They were part of One and Two. What they needed was to gradually ''beget all things.''


    All things meant everything in the Three Realms, a Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth. It was much more complicated than the Limitless Great Dao or Heaven, Earth, Man Great Dao.


    How was one to beget all things?


    Perfected Great Dao experts pursued the answer to this question. According to what Qin Yun learned from his master, there was no other way but to figure out even more Great Dao and constantly infuse them into the Great Dao they originally had figured out. The more they infused, the more their Dao would approach ''all things.''


    It would reach a point when the numerous Great Dao infused would give the cultivator an epiphany, allowing for a qualitative change.


    They would then figure out the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth, which was also the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Therefore¡ª


    There was a fundamental reason to fuse all Dao as one. Upon fusing everything, it would then become the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth.


    Qin Yun''s original Sword Dao had the direction of the Heaven, Earth, and Man! The Three Great Dao was a dissection of the Heaven, Earth, and Man from three different angles. For instance, the Dual Opposites Great Dao was a dissection from the perspective of Yin and Yang. There was also the Limitless Great Dao which was a unified entity with the Limitless Heaven and Earth.


    As for the Seven Stars Great Dao¡­ it was a branch of the Dao of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle.


    The Stellar Heavenly Cycle was to dissect the Heavenly Dao from the number of Heavenly Cycles. It was more complicated; so, when Emperor Polestar cast his sword art, it was considered the most calculating sword art in the Three Realms. If he were to infer the heavenly secrets¡­ he would be the best among perfected Great Dao existences. It was a path that was inclined towards counting and calculation.


    Similar perfected Great Dao could have opposing inclinations.


    Some were good at calculation! Others were good at frontal assaults! Some were good at creating arrays! These were all decided by one''s path.


    And when all paths were melded together, it would be the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth.


    The Seven Stars Great Dao was a portion of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle. It was also good at inferring and calculation. When Qin Yun attempted to fuse the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao, his experience from the past five centuries of attempts made the process rather smooth.


    It felt like¡­


    The original Heaven, Earth, and Man were one to begin with, but now, there was an additional seven veins within. The seven veins made the union of Heaven, Earth, and Man tighter.


    If Qin Yun could figure out the Dao of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle and fused that as well, the Great Dao he originally figured out would have an additional vein of the Counting of the Heavenly Cycles. That way, his Great Dao''s connectivity and tightness would be accentuated. His strength would likely experience a qualitative change. The qualitative change that resulted from the fusing of the Heaven, Earth, and Man Great Dao and the Stellar Heavenly Cycle Great Dao might push him directly to the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Of course, this was just a guess on Qin Yun''s part.


    It was already extremely difficult to figure out a perfected Great Dao. To figure out a second perfected Great Dao? It was still a distant thought.


    ¡­


    Night.


    Qin Yuluo was in front of a window inside the house as she quietly looked at the star-studded sky. She was a half-step Golden Immortal, so it naturally did not matter if she slept.


    At that moment, she was thinking of a particular person.


    Although she had decided to temporarily give up, she could not stop herself from thinking of him.


    "Is Brother Meng still in Cang City?" thought Qin Yuluo. "Will he ultimately be together with that demon, Phoenix Voice?"


    Suddenly, Qin Yuluo sensed an abnormal fluctuation.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yuluo went out the house, puzzled.


    She saw at a glance Qin Yun sitting cross-legged in the yard. At that moment, there was a layer of pure aura swishing above his head while a tainted aura sank beneath him. In between the pure and tainted auras, there was a distinct mixture. Between the two was the mortal world. Inside the mortal world, there were faint scenes of mountains, rivers, and vegetation. It was none other than phenomena of the Heaven, Earth, and Man. However, the mortal world''s scenes were more indistinct.


    There were seven stars which undulated within. They were constantly in motion, forming different constellation patterns. The stellar chart vein¡­ was also influencing the changes of the Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Phenomenon changes.


    This left Qin Yuluo somewhat taken aback.


    "A Great Dao phenomenon?" Qin Yuluo watched as she felt that it was something she herself was pursuing, but also felt that she was plagued with too many questions.


    If she did not understand, it meant she did not understand.


    Placed in front of her, it felt like everything was separated by a thin veil.


    "From the looks of it, Grandfather had a sudden epiphany. He did not even return to Mt. Lightning Roar for cultivation and just sat here to cultivate." Qin Yuluo smiled and felt very happy. "Grandfather has been teaching me the past five centuries or so and I have always been worried if I was interfering with his cultivation. Now that he has gained insights, it is just as he said, teaching a disciple is also a form of cultivation."


    Qin Yuluo knew very well that he was not to be disturbed at this critical juncture. She immediately resolved to carefully guard her Grandfather.


    ¡­


    Days passed one after another.


    When Mighty figures were immersed in their cultivation, time would naturally pass quickly.


    The residence by the side of the road was refined by Qin Yun himself and he brought it along with him. The residence naturally had a few simple array formations set up. But with Qin Yun''s means, even a simple set up made the residence by the side of the road invisible to anyone below the mighty figure stage.


    "Giddy up! Giddy up! Giddy up!" People galloped down the street.


    "Quick, we must arrive at the next town before nightfall or we will have to spend the night outside."


    "Brothers, quick! I still want to have a bowl of hot soup and have a good night''s rest."


    The train of horses galloped past the residence without them even seeing it. Even if they wished to touch it, it was impossible. The distance that separated them was like thousands of kilometers.


    And inside the residence, Qin Yuluo would often watch and see Qin Yun sitting cross-legged in the yard. Qin Yuluo was also seriously cultivating.


    One day.


    Rain began to patter down, but the drops were blocked when they reached three feet from Qin Yun.


    "I''ve finally succeeded." Qin Yun opened his eyes in delight as he stood up with a grin.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo rushed out of the house and saw Qin Yun. She immediately bowed and giggled, "Congratulations, Grandfather!"


    "I never expected three years to pass in just one sitting," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I made you wait foolishly beside me for three years."


    Qin Yuluo hurriedly said, "I have long become immortal. Three years is nothing to me. Grandfather, your cultivation is what''s most important."


    Qin Yun was in a good mood as he said with a smile, "I did gain a lot this time. Wait beside me for a while."


    With that said, Qin Yun took out a book and sat on a stone bench in the yard. He placed the book on a stone table and began writing. After more than five centuries of fusion attempts, the three years after figuring out the Seven Stars Great Dao, he had long fused the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao. Now, he could naturally finish writing some of the sword moves he figured out on text.


    "This is?" Qin Yuluo watched by the side, feeling curious.


    In just ten minutes, Qin Yun finished writing. On the cover were the words ''Seven Stars Sword Dao.'' After flipping it open, one would learn that it was the second volume.


    "The first volume I passed you last time only contained superficial knowledge," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It was suitable for the cultivation of those below the Golden Immortal realm.


    "As for this volume, it is the second volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao I created. It''s suitable for Golden Immortal cultivation. As for Yuluo, you presently have the strength of a half-step Golden Immortal¡­ You can attempt it. Try cultivating it and see if you get any inspiration from it. If you encounter things that puzzle you, you can put it aside. There''s no hurry," said Qin Yun with a smile. "You can work hard at cultivating it when you become a Golden Immortal."


    This was the highest attainment of his present Sword Dao.


    The Seven Stars Great Dao and his original Sword Dao had fused completely, giving him insights into various powerful sword moves and sword arrays! His might had also reached a brand new level.


    Qin Yun felt that after he fused the Seven Stars Great Dao, his Sword Dao had a tighter connection. Some of his offensive moves had turned more unfathomable and their might had been enhanced by fifty to sixty percent. If he were to set up an array, using the Seven Stars Great Dao which was good at counting and inference, the effect it would have on array formations would be even greater. Qin Yun expected that the Misty Rain Array''s might would increase severalfold. As for inferring the heavenly secrets? And hiding from them? The improvement was rapid. Excluding the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor, Qin Yun was now ranked within the top ten in the Three Realms when it came to inferring the heavenly secrets. Some perfected Great Dao existences might have great strength, but they were not necessarily good at inferring the heavenly secrets.


    "Thank you, Grandfather." Qin Yuluo received the manual in excitement as she could not help but flip through it on the spot.

 616 Meeting

    Seeing his granddaughter fully immersed into the sword art manual, Qin Yun did not interrupt her. He looked up into the sky.


    When he figured out the Seven Stars Great Dao, it was the night in early summer. The sky was covered in stars and there were croaking frogs.


    Now, it was already early autumn. There was a constant drizzle.


    With a thought from him, the rain that fell down from above was made to divert so as to not affect his granddaughter.


    "The breakthrough of the Seven Stars Great Dao has indeed elevated my strength, but it cannot be considered a true improvement." Qin Yun understood this point very well. Compared to the perfect Great Dao existences, the gap between him and them remained huge. Even his defenses which he was most proud of would be given a little more weight by the perfect Great Dao existences.


    "To make a big improvement, I need to figure out the Great Dao of Man.


    "Great Dao of Man¡­"


    Vexed feelings arose in Qin Yun''s heart.


    How was he to achieve the breakthrough?


    Apart from constant accumulation, he was temporarily out of ideas.


    ******


    While Qin Yun passed his granddaughter the second volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao, in a cave abode somewhere in the Heavenly realm.


    "Junior Brother Meng, how rare is it for you to come to me." A plump man smiled as he stroked his beard and smiled. "Go ahead, why are you seeking me? Let me be clear on one thing first. Uncle-Master Fuxi''s array formation is something that stumps me. I won''t be able to help with any of the array formation missions he gives. If you need herbs, that would be simple."


    "Senior Brother Li, do you think I come to you only to seek your help?" Meng Fu smiled exasperatedly.


    The plump man did not put on any airs. He always laughed and in fact, was one of the top five mighty figures in the Three Realms when it came to alchemy. He was also a pinnacle Golden Immortal expert named Li Yu. He was the disciple who Shennongshi of the Three Sovereigns was most proud of.


    "You aren''t here to seek my help?" Li Yu was somewhat intrigued.


    Meng Fu smiled as he reached out his palm. A wine calabash appeared in his palm out of thin air as he pulled its stopper.


    Immediately, a very faint alcoholic fragrance emitted. However, this fragrance was truly something one would never forget for all eternity. When the fragrance was sucked through one''s nostrils and entered the body, one''s heart would feel bitter as the numerous emotions in life and the infinite feelings they brought would surface in one''s heart. Li Yu''s eyes lit up as his nose kept taking a whiff at it. He looked excitedly at the calabash and asked, "Is this the legendary Seven Sufferings Wine?"


    Life had the seven sufferings¡ªbirth, old age, sickness, death, getting what you don''t want, not being able to hold onto what is desirable, and not getting what you do want.


    A cup of this wine would make one fully experience all that the mortal world had to offer.


    Many mighty figures had minds as still as water. Causing them to undergo any strong upheaval in emotions was very rare. And the Seven Sufferings Wine''s action on mortals would make them feel like they were experiencing one calamity after another, causing them to wallow in inextricable sufferings. But for mighty figures, although they would not lose themselves, the various feelings they felt¡­ would be a rare experience.


    "Junior Brother Meng, not many things catch my fancy in life except good wine," Li Yu said agitatedly. "I have also exchanged several good wines with various kinds of herbs and immortal pills, but there''s just too little of the Buddhists'' Seven Sufferings Wine¡­ I have only drank it once. The taste is truly unique. Too many wines can''t compare to it."


    "There is very little. I only happened to chance upon it. I later recalled that the person who enjoys wine the most in our Fire Cloud Palace is you, Senior Brother Li. So here I am." Meng Fu smiled as he pushed the stopper back in.


    "Hey, hey, hey¡­" Upon seeing Meng Fu plug the calabash, Li Yu turned somewhat anxious. He hurriedly said, "Name your price. You must give me this Seven Sufferings Wine."


    "I''m not fond of wine. Here, this is a gift for you, Senior Brother Li," Meng Fu said as he handed the calabash to Li Yu.


    Li Yu did not hesitate to receive it and hug it. Following that, he said with a smile, "Just say it; what do you want from me?"


    "Why not a Soul Returning Pill?" said Meng Fu calmly. "I''ll take however many you think the wine is worth."


    "Soul Returning Pill?" Li Yu pricked up his brows. "Who is it for?"


    Meng Fu shook his head gently and did not elaborate.


    Even this exchange for the Soul Returning Pill was a mere attempt; the chances of saving Yanyan remained slim.


    "I''ll give you two Soul Returning Pills." Li Yu flipped his hand and produced two jade bottles before handing them to Meng Fu.


    "Thanks."


    Meng Fu knew how precious Soul Returning Pills were, so he immediately took them.


    "If you need my help, feel free to ask. Don''t bury it in your heart," said Li Yu.


    "Alright. Then, I shall bid you farewell first." Meng Fu got up.


    "I''ll walk you out." Li Yu got up to send him off.


    After sending Meng Fu away, Li Yu returned to his room and sat down. Filled with anticipation, he looked at the calabash of Seven Sufferings Wine and gently pulled out its stopper.


    "Seven Sufferings¡­ The flavors are truly unique." Li Yu took in the fragrance as he tipped his head to take a mouthful.


    The intense emotions rushed to his head.


    The feelings that left mortals in turmoil was an enjoyment for Li Yu.


    "Great wine, great wine. This Seven Sufferings Wine is even stronger than the one I drank previously. It has to be considered a much superior grade of Seven Sufferings Wine. Even I can''t control myself. Is this the intense feeling of love? It has made me remember my youth." Li Yu opened his eyes, his eyes welling in tears. "Unfortunately, there''s just too little in this small calabash. It''s only enough for ten mouthfuls."


    Seven Sufferings Wine.


    Every brewed batch had their differences. This was because it was obtained by gathering the intense emotions people underwent in the world and ultimately refining and brewing them. Therefore, the more intense the emotions gathered, the stronger the wine''s flavors.


    And at that moment, Li Yu was feeling the intense emotions¡ªlove, hate, grudge, greed, infatuation¡ªall sorts of emotions were welling in him.


    Amid the intense emotions was an invisible energy lurking within.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    "This Seven Sufferings Wine can only be considered somewhere in between the inferior-grade or medial-grade. However, I mixed in a Seven Emotions and Six Desires fruit, making the emotions and desire stronger." Hidden amid the emotions was an avatar of Boxun. He was feeling rather pleased.


    "Ever since the heavens were split apart from the earth, I have only grown a total of five Seven Emotions and Six Desires fruits. Yet I have used one on you, as well as my Greed and Desire avatar," Boxun''s Greed and Desire avatar said in anticipation. After a few more decades, I''ll fully infiltrate you and have you under my control.


    "Fire Cloud Palace has a total of six pinnacle mighty figures. Only Li Yu has a weakness for good wine, a flaw that can barely be used. I was confident only with the additional use of a Seven Emotions and Six Desires fruit.


    "This time¡­


    "I paid the price of two Six Desire avatars and a Seven Emotions and Six Desires fruit. I have to obtain the Torch Flame Kindling or it would be a tremendous loss.


    "I''ll wait a little longer. Once everything is in order, it will be time for me to obtain the Torch Flame Kindling." Boxun was very patient.


    ¡­


    While traveling the world with his granddaughter, Qin Yun would give her pointers on her sword art.


    This day, the both of them came to a very ordinary city in the Heavenly realm named Red Fish City. They were having one of their local delights in a restaurant. Apart from being good at sword arts, his granddaughter also enjoyed good food like him. After traveling the world for so long¡­ both of them had tasted all sorts of local delights all across the Heavenly realm.


    In a manor of Red Fish City.


    An aloof woman dressed in red robes sat there with a brush in hand, drawing. Suddenly she frowned as she looked into the distance. A fierce glint flashed in her eyes.


    "That slut," said the woman through clenched teeth.


    "Your Highness?" A middle-aged woman with deep green hair who was serving her asked softly.


    "I can sense that the slut is here again!" The woman gnashed her teeth. "On account of Sword Immortal Qin, I have been tolerating her and have never really attacked her. Instead of staying away, she has come again¡­ Only when I told her the last time and made it clear to her did she stand down and leave Cang City.


    "I never expected that Brother Meng would move from Cang City and reside in Red Fish City. This slut sure caught wind of its fast and came to Red Fish City as well," said the woman through clenched teeth.


    She was one of the extremely strong descendants of the ancient Sagedemon, Nine Phoenix. Although she was stuck at the ninth firmament Skydemon realm, her strength matched that of a mighty figure. Her various moves were more brilliant than Qin Yuluo''s, who had cultivated for a relatively shorter period of time and was a half-step Golden Immortal. She could sense Qin Yuluo''s presence through karma.


    However, Qin Yuluo was unable to sense Phoenix Voice.


    "Could it be a coincidence?" asked the middle-aged woman.


    "Coincidence?" Phoenix Voice scoffed. "Brother Meng left Cang City, and in few decades she''s here as well? Besides, the Heavenly realm is too vast, how can it be a coincidence that she comes to this city? A coincidence? I don''t believe it."


    "Use your divine powers and see what she''s doing. Is she at Brother Meng''s residence?" instructed the woman.


    "Yes."


    The middle-aged woman''s eyes transformed and like a bird''s eye surveyed the surroundings.


    She searched through every area.


    At a glance, she saw Red Fish City.


    "I can''t find her." The woman was astonished as she said softly, "I have already searched every person in Red Fish City, but there''s no Qin Yuluo. In terms of aura, I did not discover any half-step Golden Immortal either."


    "She''s definitely here, no doubt about it. You can''t find her because she changed her looks and hid her aura." The woman scoffed. "Coming here incognito to find Brother Meng. If you aren''t feeling guilty, is there a need to act so furtively?"


    ¡­


    In a restaurant in Red Fish City.


    Qin Yun shared a meal with his granddaughter. As they traveled across the world, they naturally converged their auras and changed their looks to prevent being disturbed.


    "Oh?" A hawk demon has cast a divine power to search all of Red Fish City?" Qin Yun suddenly sensed it and with a thought, discovered the residence where a green-haired middle-aged woman was casting the searching divine power. And beside her was an aloof red-robed woman.

 617 Remember Well

    Every action the middle-aged woman and the red-dressed woman took and every word they exchanged did not escape Qin Yun''s notice.


    "She said that Yuluo is here to see Brother Meng sneakily? Who is Brother Meng?" Qin Yun pricked up his bows. Many questions came to his mind. Qin Yuluo was his granddaughter, someone who he had the intention to groom as his successor. Any Dao partner she chose in the future naturally had to be vetted by him or he would not be at ease.


    Qin Yun did not do a thing; all he did was continue listening in.


    ¡­


    "You are right, Your Highness." The middle-aged woman nodded immediately. "If she doesn''t have ulterior motives, there is no need for her to act so sneakily. Besides, the Heavenly realm is so vast, so why would she come to an ordinary city for no reason? And one that happens to be where Immortal Meng is residing? That''s too much of a coincidence."


    "Then, what do we do now?" pressed the middle-aged woman.


    Phoenix Voice sneered and said, "I can sense her location through karma. She is inside the city. I have spoken to her before and vaguely informed her of the consequences. I believed that she had retreated in the face of difficulty. But who knew that after a few centuries, she would come again! It looks like¡­ speaking nicely to her is useless."


    "Your Highness, what do you intend to do?" The woman was alarmed.


    "I''ll make sure she remembers well! I''ll make sure she stays away forever!" Phoenix Voice had a cold glint in her eyes.


    The woman said hurriedly, "Your Highness, she''s Sword Immortal Qin''s granddaughter."


    "Don''t worry. As long as Sword Immortal Qin is alive, do you think I''ll be foolish enough to kill her?" Phoenix Voice scoffed. "I''ll only teach this little slut a lesson. I''ll humiliate her and make sure she is too ashamed to publicize it."


    "This¡­" The woman hesitated.


    "Don''t worry. I know how far I can take it. I won''t go overboard." Phoenix Voice chuckled and said, "With my understanding of her, she will only bury it in her heart and not trouble Sword Immortal Qin. After all, he has to face the numerous Itinerant Immortal tribulations. She definitely would not want him to worry over such trivial matters. Secondly, so what if she told him? It is a conflict between juniors with no deaths happening. What can Sword Immortal Qin do about that? My master will not permit him to act as a bully."


    The woman nodded slightly.


    Phoenix Voice had her matriarch, the ancient demon, Nine Phoenix, who was very fond of her. She also had the Demon Emperor Bai Ze who was known for never having failed to execute a plan.


    "Follow me." Phoenix Voice got up as the middle-aged woman followed obediently. The two immediately left the cave abode and rushed over by tracing Qin Yuluo''s karma.


    ¡­


    In the restaurant, Qin Yun reflected on everything he had just heard.


    Her repeated use of ''little slut'' vexed Qin Yun a little. However, he was still rather puzzled about the situation.


    "Phoenix Voice is a ninth firmament Skydemon. Her strength matches that of mighty figures. She is a direct descendant of Nine Phoenix and Demon Emperor Bai Ze''s disciple," thought Qin Yun. "Why would she end up in a conflict with Yuluo? Is it because of that Brother Meng?"


    Qin Yun could only guess while feeling puzzled over many aspects.


    Although they were coming to confront Qin Yuluo, Qin Yun remained patient.


    "Phew¡­Phew¡­"


    In midair faraway, two figures swooped down directly and landed in front of the restaurant. Although there were many passers-by around, no one noticed them. After all, their strengths were extraordinary. One of them matched a mighty figure while the other had the strength of a half-step mighty figure.


    Many mortals and a number of cultivators failed to notice them.


    However, Qin Yuluo sensed it.


    She looked up and saw two figures descend from midair. She saw the cold-faced Phoenix Voice and her subordinate.


    "Phoenix Voice?" Qin Yuluo turned anxious.


    She never wanted to have her affairs of the heart made public. Furthermore, she had already decided on giving up her unrequited love in a few thousand years. She naturally did not want her grandfather to know of it.


    "I''m going to meet a friend," said Qin Yuluo as she left the restaurant.


    Her figure phased away as she appeared at the restaurant''s entrance, standing in front of Phoenix Voice and the woman.


    "Sister Phoenix Voice, what a coincidence." Qin Yuluo forced a smile.


    "That''s right, what a coincidence!" Phoenix Voice sighed as well. "The Heavenly realm is so huge, but we actually bumped into one another here. Even more coincidental, Red Fish City happens to be where Brother Meng has reclused himself. Yet, you have sneakily come here. It really isn''t an ordinary coincidence!"


    "Brother Meng has reclused himself here?" Qin Yuluo was somewhat astonished. "Isn''t he at Cang City?"


    "Still acting?"


    Phoenix Voice looked at Qin Yuluo with a smile that meant nothing. "Brother Meng has left Cang City and reclused himself in Red Fish City. You are Immortal Yuluo of the Qin family¡­ If you really wanted to investigate, would such a trivial piece of news escape you?"


    Perhaps the residences of existences like Patriarch Bodhi and Daoist Lu Ya were difficult to find.


    But the residences of ordinary mighty figures were easily found.


    "Brother Meng has moved to Red Fish City?" Qin Yuluo had many emotions arise in her. After all, he was the first man who had entered her heart.


    "I really just learned of it," said Qin Yuluo. "Sister Phoenix Voice, I''m not lying to you."


    "Cut the act. I have been living in human cities all these years. I''ve seen enough of how two-faced you humans are. Do you think that little bit of acting can fool me? I saw through it at a glance. To be honest, you humans do not act as directly as we demons. We kill and take action as our hearts tell us," said Phoenix Voice. "I made it clear to you the last time. Do not appear in front of Brother Meng again or you would regret it. Now that you are here, I have to punish you a little or you might think that all I said meant nothing."


    When Qin Yuluo heard that, she could not help but look back.


    She was afraid, afraid that it would cause her grandfather to rage!


    "What are you looking at? Don''t worry, the weak ants around us can''t see us or hear us," said Phoenix Voice. "Qin Yuluo, your Qin family only has Sword Immortal Qin to rely on. When he falls, your Qin family is nothing. Since you do not know how to retreat in the face of difficulties, I''ll punish you a little to make you remember well. It''s also to help you. I''ll let you know who you can and cannot offend. Do it, slap her in the face a hundred times. Do not miss a single slap for I''ll be counting."


    "Yes, Your Highness," said the middle-aged woman beside her.


    Qin Yuluo''s expression changed as she could hardly hide her anger.


    "There''s no point being anxious. You won''t be able to resist with me around." Phoenix Voice waved her hand as a white rope flew out in a bid to bind Qin Yuluo.


    "Sou!"


    The white rope was restrained by an invisible force before flying towards a man who was drinking in the restaurant. The man reached out his hand and easily grabbed the white rope.


    "My Dharma treasure!" Phoenix Voice''s expression changed drastically as she stared at the man. There were many customers in the restaurant and they were all eating and drinking normally. They were unable to see or hear Phoenix Voice and company outside, but Qin Yun heard everything.


    "Why are you in a hurry to attack? I still wanted to hear more of what you had to say." Qin Yun put down his wine cup and looked at the two female demons outside. He then looked at the somewhat embarrassed Qin Yuluo. "This lass often buries things in her heart. Her parents and I did not know of it, but I''ve finally learned of it today."


    "Who are you?" Phoenix Voice turned flustered for she had a guess.


    "Who do you think I am?" Qin Yun looked at her. "Didn''t you just say that if I fall, the Qin family is nothing?"


    Phoenix Voice and the woman immediately felt their hearts skip a beat.

 618 Sword Immortal Qin!

    Phoenix Voice and the woman beside her turned flustered.


    It was Sword Immortal Qin!


    They had plainly said that the moment Sword Immortal Qin perished, the Qin family would be nothing! However, that was only after Sword Immortal Qin perished. Sword Immortal Qin was not an inexperienced lass like Qin Yuluo. He was a peerless sword immortal who had forged his way through life and death. He had killed countless experts and Ancestral Fiends, and even ancient Chaos Godfiends¡­ Even the infamous Wu Zhiqi had perished under his hands. He had carved through the twenty-six dominions with his sword, causing the fiends to lose large swaths of territory. Even the Fiend Ancestor could do nothing about him.


    "Senior Qin." Phoenix Voice instantly turned obedient as she bowed hurriedly. "Greetings Senior Qin, I''m Phoenix Voice."


    "Greetings, Senior Qin." The woman beside her bowed obediently as well, not even daring to take a breath.


    "This rope is pretty good." Qin Yun held the rope in hand and said softly, "You planned to use it to bind my granddaughter and give her a hundred slaps?"


    Phoenix Voice''s heart tensed up.


    Regret! How regretful!


    "No, it was nothing like that," said Phoenix Voice hurriedly. "I was only trying to scare her. How could I have really done such a deed? It''s just some petty squabble between us juniors."


    "I, Qin Yun, am still alive." Qin Yun did not even glance at Phoenix Voice. All he did was stare at the rope in his hand. "But someone already wants to bind a family member of mine so that she cannot resist before dealing her a hundred slaps. If I were to, as you say, fall, perishing because of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations¡­ would you have taken more drastic measures?"


    With that said, Qin Yun looked down at Phoenix Voice.


    The color in Phoenix Voice''s face drained. "No, no¡­"


    "Junior demon, are you prepared to die for doing this?" Qin Yun looked at her with extreme calmness. However, it left Phoenix Voice pale. Her hands were trembling as her feet nearly turned limp.


    "Die?" Phoenix Voice found it unbelievable.


    He was going to kill her?


    Sword Immortal Qin would kill over such a trivial matter?


    The woman beside her was horrified in despair.


    Qin Yuluo, who was standing by the side in embarrassment ever since Qin Yu spoke, also looked at her grandfather in astonishment. "Grandfather, he''s¡­"


    ¡­


    In Parasol Great World''s Firephoenix Mountain.


    It was perennially in flames and deep in the mountain range was a cave abode where Nine Phoenix, a Sagedemon who was famous throughout the Three Realms since the ancient Heavenly Courts resided. She was a peerless expert ranked in the top five back in the ancient Heavenly Court days. She was even superior to Bai Ze for a very long period of time. It was only later when Bai Ze broke through to the perfected Great Dao that he become the present Demon Emperor Bai Ze.


    Now, with humans ruling over the Three Realms, the demons were in recession.


    The ancient Sagedemon, Nine Phoenix, seldom made appearances and kept a very low profile. However, her strength was redoubtable among the Sagedemon demons.


    "Phoenix Voice, why are you looking for me with such urgency?" Nine Phoenix was dressed in a elegant and luxurious red robe. Her brows exuded an domineering aura.


    "Matriarch, I had a petty squabble with the Qin family''s lass, Qin Yuluo, out of jealousy pertaining to the matter with Brother Meng. I even said I wanted to slap her a hundred times, but unbeknownst to me, Sword Immortal Qin was just nearby." Phoenix Voice''s avatar respectfully and quickly recounted the situation. She did not dare hide the truth.


    "You failed to detect Qin Yun when he was just nearby?" Nine Phoenix could not help but frown.


    "He had converged his aura, so how could I sense him?" Phoenix Voice''s avatar said helplessly. Following that, her expression changed drastically as she said hurriedly, "Matriarch, Matriarch, he wants to kill me! Save me!"


    "What?"


    Nine Phoenix''s expression changed as she vanished from her spot. From another dominion, she traversed the extensive distance to where Phoenix Voice was. Through their karmic relationship, Nine Phoenix was able to clearly know where this junior of hers was.


    ******


    "Junior demon, are you prepared to die for doing this?"


    The moment Qin Yun finished his sentence, he sensed a fluctuation descend upon him. A fiery-red haired woman dressed in a luxurious red robe stepped through the void. The moment she arrived, the surrounding temperatures seemed to increase a few notches. The sun in the sky also dimmed somewhat. The sun''s rays seemed to gather on her, making her a fiery supreme of the world.


    "Hmph." Qin Yun shot her a glance and waved the white rope in hand.


    With the rope in hand, he could refine it for himself easily with his Dharmic powers. His waving of the rope resulted in it flying in an unpredictable trajectory. Even though Phoenix Voice wished to dodge, the white robe still managed to bind her in an inexplicable manner.


    With a tug of the rope, Phoenix Voice was pulled to him. She had all her Dharmic powers sealed and she was bound. There was no way for her to resist. With a beckon, Qin Yuluo was pulled to Qin Yun''s side as well.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, please show mercy," the woman in midair said. Meanwhile, she walked over. With just one step, she arrived at the restaurant''s entrance, and with another, she appeared inside the restaurant. However, none of the customers could see or hear what was happening.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." The woman was rather polite.


    "Nine Phoenix." However, Qin Yun did not wear a smile. All he did was look at her calmly.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, Phoenix Voice has informed me of what happened," said Nine Phoenix immediately with a smile. "It''s really her fault, but such petty squabbles should be left to them, letting the best prevail. Her wish of slapping your junior a hundred times is indeed quite humiliating, but since it has not happened, there''s no need to be too harsh on her."


    Qin Yun pointed at the bound Phoenix Voice. "Do you know how this rope came to be in my hands?"


    Nine Phoenix revealed a look of puzzlement.


    "She was the one who first struck. I intercepted it," said Qin Yun.


    "I''ll get her to apologize and compensate Miss Yuluo and I''ll compensate you as well," said Nine Phoenix with a smile. "Can we let this matter pass?"


    Qin Yun looked at her. "Since you are willing to compensate me, I''ll give her a chance. I won''t kill her."


    Nine Phoenix listened with a smile.


    The bound Phoenix Voice secretly heaved a sigh of relief, thinking to herself, "This Sword Immortal Qin still fears us demons. He does not dare to go too far or it might result in repercussions for his Qin family.


    Qin Yuluo listened by the side without daring to interject.


    "I will give her a chance. Although she will be spared from death, that does not mean there will be no punishment!" Qin Yun said. "I will let Yuluo slap her a hundred times. Following that, she will be imprisoned in my Qin Manor''s dungeon for a hundred thousand years. She will regain her freedom after that."


    Phoenix Voice, the woman, and Qin Yuluo were alarmed.


    Nine Phoenix''s expression changed as she said in a deep voice, "Sword Immortal Qin, aren''t you going a little too overboard?"


    "Overboard?"


    Qin Yun''s gaze turned ice-cold as he looked at Nine Phoenix. "Nine Phoenix, you should understand that certain things can and cannot be done. Doing them¡­ leads to death! I, Qin Yun, am indeed an Itinerant Immortal. Countless experts in the Three Realms are watching me, waiting for me to die under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations! Indeed, the Itinerant Immortal tribulations are fraught with danger. Even I do not have any confidence of transcending them. In the future, I might very well perish under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    "But I''m still very much alive now! To think people dare bully my family members while I''m alive. What will happen when I''m dead?" Qin Yun had a fierce look in his eyes.


    The chances of him dying in the Itinerant Immortal tribulations were high.


    Therefore, he had long made plans.


    Before his final tribulation, he would arrange things for his family. He would ensure that his wife and children would not be bullied even after his death. After all, his carnage across the Three Realms had resulted in him having many enemies, especially the fiends! There were definitely many who wanted to seek revenge against his Qin family. However, Qin Yun was in no rush. He felt that there was plenty of time. Also, his strength was still rising constantly, and the stronger he was, the easier it was to arrange certain things.


    He would make sure everything was in place before his final tribulation.


    But he never expected that while he was still alive, with thousands of years left to live, the demoness Phoenix Voice would actually dare take action against his granddaughter.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, this is just a conflict among juniors. Phoenix Voice had no intention to kill; is going to such lengths necessary?" asked Nine Phoenix.


    "It''s precisely because she had no intention to kill that I gave her a chance to live," said Qin Yun. "Yuluo, come. Slap her a hundred times."


    "Grandfather?" Qin Yuluo was somewhat hesitant.


    Nine Phoenix was just beside them.


    "Do it!" said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Yes," Qin Yuluo answered obediently.


    "Qin Yun, I can ignore the hundred slaps, but an imprisonment of a hundred thousand years is too much." Nine Phoenix looked at Qin Yun. "Please compromise!"


    "Nine Phoenix, you may leave. Of course, you can stay and watch her being slapped," said Qin Yun.


    "Qin Yun!" Nine Phoenix raged as well. She had a spitfire personality and although her temper had turned for the better after keeping a prolonged low profile, she finally lost her temper despite her smiling urges. She bellowed, "I''ve been speaking nicely to you, but you have acted to arrogantly. You are thinking nothing of me or the demons!"


    "The Fiend Ancestor once threatened me," said Qin Yun, "yet, I still stormed through the twenty-six dominions. Who do you think you are? As I said, no one can stop me today!"


    Nine Phoenix''s eyes burned. "Very good. Very good. You dare think lightly of me?"


    Boom!


    Nine Phoenix instantly soared into the sky as flames rushed out the restaurant''s ceiling and high into the sky.


    Extremely glaring flames appeared in midair while Nine Phoenix bathed in their heat. She looked down and bellowed angrily, "Qin Yun, come out! Fight me! I want to see what gives you the confidence to dare go over my head!"


    "You do know that Wu Zhiqi died under my blade." Qin Yun sat at his table and looked up at Nine Phoenix. "Yet, you plan on fighting me?"

 619 Seven Stars Combo

    Nine Phoenix was a proud and overbearing person. Yet, the human Itinerant Immortal sitting in the restaurant below was threatening her?


    "Haha, Wu Zhiqi? He was only a force to be reckoned with while the Three Realms was still in its inchoate state. In this present era, what does he amount to? Qin Yun! Is killing a mere Wu Zhiqi something to brag about? Back when we demons ruled the Three Realms, three pinnacle mighty figures died under my hand." Nine Phoenix looked down and sneered. "Don''t brag with just your mouth. If you have the guts, fight me. If you are afraid, get out of my sight!"


    Sitting by the table, Qin Yun nodded. "Oh, you are right. The fist is what matters."


    "Yuluo."


    Qin Yun handed her the rope in his hand. "Watch this junior named Phoenix Voice well."


    "Yes." Qin Yuluo received it nervously, but she could not help but say, "Grandfather, there''s really no need to do this for me¡­"


    The situation was escalating.


    The fame of the ancient Sagedemon, Nine Phoenix, came from her numerous exploits! Including the ancient demons'' Celestial Thearch of that era, Nine Phoenix was ranked fifth among the powerful demons. Although she reclused herself when humans came to rule over the Three Realms, she did not stay isolated from the world completely. She was still cultivating and creating techniques with different Dharmic formulations.


    She would only become stronger, not weaker.


    She was unlike the bunch of Chaos Godfiends like Wu Zhiqi who were isolated after being sealed. They did not manage to come into contact with the numerous divine powers and mystic arts which were produced by the Three Realms over time.


    "Yuluo, this is not only for you." Qin Yun smiled at Qin Yuluo. "I want to let the Three Realms know that I, Qin Yun, am not dead yet!"


    Qin Yuluo was taken aback.


    "And even if I die," said Qin Yun. "I will absolutely not tolerate the bullying of my family! I will give the realms an example of my power, and Phoenix Voice is that example. Same with Nine Phoenix!"


    With that said, Qin Yun got up and looked at Nine Phoenix.


    He flew up into the sky with a whoosh.


    Nine Phoenix''s expression was ugly as she glared at the incoming Qin Yun. "I''m an example? You want to make an example out of me? What an audacious tone! I hope your strength is enough to support your claim, or I''ll be beating you into pulp!"


    With that said, Nine Phoenix reached out her hand, producing a black spear. At that moment, she had absorbed the massive energies of the sun. Instantly, an area spanning 5000 kilometers was enveloped by fiery flames. Bathed in the flames, Nine Phoenix''s red hair flailed. Her spear emitted heart-chilling killing intent as she stared at Qin Yun intently.


    "Watch your front!" Nine Phoenix transformed into a fiery beam and swooped down at Qin Yun at an astounding speed.


    The few experts in the Three Realms who were adept with fire had astounding speeds. For instance, the ten Golden Crow princes of the past, the imprisoned Zhurong, and Nine Phoenix all had tremendous speeds. Extremely horrifying speeds accompanied by tempestuous rage, that was how the black spear had been thrust forward.


    Qin Yun stood in midair as he watched the scene silently. He did not move; all he did was gently wave his hand.


    Three flying swords flew out from his sleeve. They were none other than his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s three Heaven, Earth, and Man swords.


    The three flying swords flew out and formed a world in and of themselves. When the spear stabbed into the formless world membrane, it failed to proceed any further.


    Simultaneously, there was a drizzle which enveloped 50,000 kilometers of the surroundings. The Misty Rain domain easily repressed the blazing flames, reducing the range of the flames Nine Phoenix released to only 10,000 feet.


    "Show me your best, or you will no longer have another chance." Qin Yun looked at Nine Phoenix calmly.


    He was planning to make an example out of her.


    Naturally, he had to crush Nine Phoenix!


    Nine Phoenix was an example! And experts in the Three Realms with particular ideas about the Qin family would be the spectators!


    ¡­


    At the moment Nine Phoenix released her terrifying flames, the horrifying blast attracted the attention of many mighty figures in the Heavenly realm.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s the demons'' Nine Phoenix?"


    "Nine Phoenix and that Sword Immortal Qin are fighting?"


    Mighty figures watched remotely. They even passed the news to their best friends. Soon, many mighty figures who resided in the various dominions began to watch the battle.


    "Interesting. On one side is the ancient demon, Nine Phoenix. She was one of the strongest few back during the ancient demons'' Heavenly Courts. After being in remission for so many years, she has probably accumulated a great deal of insight and experience. The other is Sword Immortal Qin, also a pinnacle mighty figure. He''s also a sword immortal who is known to destroy all Dharma with a single sword. Although he has not been cultivating for long, he has the Connate Cardinal treasure Qingping Sword in hand."


    "Such a major battle is rare."


    "This Nine Phoenix is foolish as well. That human Qin Yun is a Daoist Itinerant Immortal. With the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, he only has a few millennia left to live. Why is she being calculative towards an Itinerant Immortal?"


    "Why did they end up fighting?"


    "I did an inference. It has to do with their juniors. The demon Phoenix Voice wanted to teach the Qin family''s Qin Yuluo a lesson by slapping her a hundred times. Sword Immortal Qin happened to be present and saw everything. Naturally, he was angered. He wanted to punish Phoenix Voice severely and imprison her in the Qin family dungeons for a hundred thousand years. Nine Phoenix with her intractable temper was naturally enraged by Sword Immortal Qin''s tyranny."


    "What kind of temper does Sword Immortal Qin have? For his homeworld, he was willing to face the tribulations ahead of time to become an Itinerant Immortal! That kind of temper and his concern for his family, matched with the present circumstances, definitely infuriated him. He''s doing it to shock the juniors."


    "Did you hear it? Sword Immortal Qin mentioned that he wanted to make an example out of them. Nine Phoenix is supposed to be that example. He sure is gutsy!"


    "That''s what you call strength. You are just a mere ordinary Golden Immortal. Would you dare to say such a thing in front of Nine Phoenix?"


    Mighty figures in the Three Realms, apart from a handful, were mostly inferior to Qin Yun and Nine Phoenix.


    This battle thrilled many mighty figures as they watched eagerly for the outcome.


    ******


    Above Red Fish City.


    The smoke-like rain enveloped an area spanning 50,000 kilometers. It was Qin Yun''s Misty Rain domain. Nine Phoenix, who was suppressed by the domain, failed to do anything to the Misty Rain domain with her spear.


    "Show me you best, or you will no longer have another chance." Qin Yun''s words infuriated Nine Phoenix.


    She had not been belittled in such a long time.


    "Isn''t it just the Misty Rain Array? I heard that you managed to fend off Patriarch Blood Sea with it," said Nine Phoenix with an angry scoff. "I admit that the Misty Rain Array is rather powerful at defense. But defense is not going to defeat your opponent. I might not be able to do anything if you hide away in the Misty Rain Array like a turtle, but since you have bragged about me not having a chance, I would like to know what you mean by that."


    If Qin Yun chose to hide himself inside the Misty Rain Array, an array which Guangchengzi had deemed as the best defensive array among pinnacle Golden Immortals, it was true that Nine Phoenix could do nothing to him.


    Therefore, she had to goad Qin Yun into attacking.


    "As you wish." With that said, Qin Yun waved his hand.


    "Whoosh."


    Three flying swords rapidly flew out at unimaginable speeds. The speed of weapons was much faster than the speed mighty figures were capable of reaching.


    Instantly, the three Heaven, Earth, and Man swords split into three directions and enveloped Nine Phoenix within.


    "Back then, Wu Zhiqi and company were trapped inside my Misty Rain Array and eventually perished," said Qin Yun.


    "Do you plan on trapping me with this crappy array?" Nine Phoenix was in no way flustered.


    Array formations.


    Attacking one from the outside was typically difficult, but attacking from the inside was relatively easier.


    "Boom." Nine Phoenix''s body phased away, revealing her true form.


    It was a nine-headed phoenix formed completely of fire. After Nine Phoenix''s true body appeared, the might of the fire she controlled also clearly increased to a whole new level. The void in the Heavenly realm was burned into the finest atoms as she spread her flaming wings and transformed into a glaring beam of light. She struck the Misty Rain Array with a pair of sharp claws that appeared to be capable of tearing through anything.


    However, although the Misty Rain Array trembled, it managed to withstand the blow.


    It was indeed easier to attack an array formation from the inside and Nine Phoenix was indeed much stronger than Wu Zhiqi, even to the point of being Xiangliu''s equal.


    However, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array was already capable of trapping and killing Wu Zhiqi back at Mt. Three Blades. Back then, he had just made a breakthrough. Now, having cultivated for another two thousand plus years, he had converted his insights into actual strength! His strength had been elevated again. Having infused the new insights of the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao, the array formation''s strength had increased exponentially again.


    "How is that possible?" Nine Phoenix was alarmed when she failed to tear through the array with her true form''s swipe.


    "Begone!" Nine Phoenix''s true form let out a sharp shrill cry as billowing flames incinerated the area. Even the void shattered amid the Misty Rain Array due to the sweeping flames. She attacked again and again, but the Misty Rain Array continued imprisoning her.


    "Shrink, shrink, shrink," said Qin Yun softly.


    The Misty Rain Array shrank.


    The billowing flames within shrank as well. It went from 100,000 feet to 10,000 feet, until it was eventually reduced to a small one hundred feet. Nine Phoenix was trapped within, unable to escape no matter how much she struggled.


    "Don''t bother struggling. It''s useless," said Qin Yun.


    Her nine heads glared at Qin Yun ferociously. She said in a shrill voice, "I might not be able to escape, but my Nine Phoenix true form was born from the flames. Even if you use the Qingping Sword, you will not be able to injure me at all."


    "Yuluo." Qin Yuluo shouted out loudly.


    "Grandfather."


    Qin Yuluo, who was holding onto the bound Phoenix Voice, was already feeling extremely nervous from watching the battle. When she heard Qin Yun call out to her, she immediately answered.


    "In the second volume of the Seven Stars Sword Dao I gave you, there is the Seven Stars Combo recorded at the end. Watch carefully." As Qin Yun spoke, he waved his hand as a wisp of green light flew out from his sleeve.


    Shoo!


    An extremely bright green beam of sword flash flew into the Misty Rain Array.


    Nine Phoenix flew up and blocked with her claws, but not only was the sword flash fast, its trajectory was unpredictable. It felt like the constantly changing trajectories of the planets in the sky. Nine Phoenix felt that she had fended it off with her claw, but the sword flash appeared ethereal. It managed to penetrate her body, immediately making her aware of a force causing damage to her body.


    Nine Phoenix''s true form was made out of flames. It was a Nine Phoenix True Fire unique to her, but at this moment, an extremely sharp power was decimating the flames within her. When the flames were completely extinguished, it would mean her death.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The green beam tore through Nine Phoenix and turned around to make another penetration.


    One strike followed another.


    Gorgeous sword trajectories left scars behind in mid air. The scars resembled the Big Dipper.


    Nine Phoenix revealed a look of horror. "Why is each sword faster and stronger than the last?"


    Indeed.


    If the first strike was said to trouble Nine Phoenix a little, the strikes that followed became more terrifying. It was like a spate she found indefensible. The sixth strike''s strength was equivalent to the strength of the first five strikes combined. It left her severely injured as her purple blood splattered.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun beckoned his hand as the Qingping Sword flew into his sleeve.


    Qin Yuluo, who was watching from below with eyes alit, was stunned and somewhat depressed. "Grandfather, where''s the seventh strike of the Seven Stars Combo?"


    Qin Yun had only cast the first six strikes of the Seven Stars Combo.


    "She will die if I cast the seventh strike." Qin Yun looked at the heavily injured and terrified Nine Phoenix inside the Misty Rain Array. He turned his head towards the void and said, "Demon Emperor Bai Ze would not permit me to release the seventh strike either."


    "Hahaha, as expected of Sword Immortal Qin. In terms of sword arts, you are truly the number one sword immortal of the Three Realms." A white-haired and white-browed man in fluttering white clothes walked out of the void.

 620 Demon Emperor Bai Ze

    While Qin Yun was casting the Qingping Sword, he sensed a faint aura descend. As it was hidden in the void, Qin Yun sensed it through karma and immediately confirmed that the hiding entity was Demon Emperor Bai Ze. Regardless, Qin Yun had continued attacking. He cast six moves of the Seven Stars Combo before stopping! It was to make a statement! No one could make a plea on Phoenix Voice''s behalf!


    "Greetings, Senior Bai Ze," said Qin Yun with a polite bow.


    "Bai Ze." The heavily-injured Nine Phoenix, who was trapped in the Misty Rain Array, shouted as she returned to human form.


    "Nine Phoenix, you still haven''t changed your temperament after all these years," berated Bai Ze softly. "Qin Yun has huge merit on him. He has done so much for the Three Realms. Do you think that just because he''s an Itinerant Immortal and won''t live for long that you can bully his family? That''s a nasty way of doing things! It''s too embarrassing!"


    Nine Phoenix could not help but say, "But Qin Yun is just too¡­"


    "If you only had a few thousand years to live, you would understand how he feels as well," berated Bai Ze.


    Nine Phoenix immediately shut up.


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished while watching from the side. Bai Ze was rather considerate towards him.


    "Qin Yun," said Bai Ze seriously. "When I learned what Phoenix Voice had to say, I was placed in quite a difficult position. Punishment should observe the principle of proportionality of the offense. I find imprisoning her for a hundred thousand years to be a good idea. It will force her to come to her senses, or she might one day get into bigger trouble.


    "As for Nine Phoenix, she is considered a powerful expert in the Three Realms. During the Daoist-Fiend war, she played an extremely important role. The both of you should not do anything that will pain the hearts of the various mighty figures in the Three Realms while letting the fiends cheer you on," said Bai Ze. "It''s best you let her out."


    Qin Yun smiled faintly. "Alright, as you wish."


    If Bai Ze really wanted to save Nine Phoenix, there was no way he could stop him.


    Besides, Nine Phoenix had only taken action because of her junior. Teaching her a stern lesson was already humiliating enough for her! It was sufficient to let all the experts in the Three Realms witness that much.


    "Sou!"


    The three flying swords flew back and with a wave of his hand, he stored them away.


    Dressed in red-robes, Nine Phoenix gave Qin Yun a conflicted look. She had lost terribly. It was a complete beatdown! Just the first six strikes of the so-called Seven Stars Combo had already made her sense death. If the seventh strike was delivered¡­ she could very well be dead!


    Facing an expert who could kill her naturally felt different.


    "Whoosh." However, her fierce pride prevented Nine Phoenix from saying a word. She took one step and departed.


    Bai Ze shook his head slightly when he saw her leave with a prideful stance. He knew her temperament well after all these years.


    "Qin Yun, you are likely the strongest Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms ever since me." Bai Ze looked at Qin Yun smilingly. "I have always been hoping to get an opportunity to meet you. It''s quite a coincidence today, so shall we have a chat?"


    "I have always wished to pay you a visit, Senior Bai Ze," said Qin Yun as well. Bai Ze was an expert who hardly ever brought animosity unto himself.


    Bai Ze had a very good reputation in the Three Realms.


    Most demons were savage and ruthless, but Bai Ze''s temper was one of the best among the perfected Great Dao existences.


    ¡­


    The mighty figures of the Three Realms had watched the battle between Sword Immortal Qin and Sagedemon Nine Phoenix with great anticipation. However, the battle''s outcome left them somewhat dumbfounded.


    It was a complete wipe out!


    The ancient Sagedemon Nine Phoenix was completely trounced. She had no way of escaping once she was trapped by the Misty Rain Array. The moment the Qingping Sword was drawn, just a few strikes were enough to nearly take her life! Even Bai Ze had to come personally to save her.


    "How is this Sword Immortal Qin so strong?"


    "To be able to kill Nine Phoenix with a few strikes, his strength is already at the level of a perfected Great Dao, right?"


    "Yeah. Although his Misty Rain Array is powerful, it is only capable of trapping Nine Phoenix and could not harm her. However, he was using the Connate Cardinal treasure, the Qingping Sword! With the Qingping Sword in hand, he is already able to release its true strength."


    "Back when Senior Burning Lamp was in the pinnacle Golden Immortal realm, he obtained the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads. With it, he was able to release strength at the perfected Great Dao level. Now, Sword Immortal Qin is also able to release the full strength of the Qingping Sword."


    "With the use of the Qingping Sword, he is probably invincible under the perfected Great Dao realm."


    Mighty figures discussed among themselves in astonishment.


    It was just like how Hou Yi''s arrow was able to produce strength that matched the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Among pinnacle Great Dao figures¡­ there were some who could produce strength at the perfected Great Dao realm.


    For instance, the Three Fairies of Green Touring Palace was said to be able to cast the strongest array among pinnacle Golden Immortals. That array had the strength of the perfected Great Dao level and required the three fairies to do it collectively.


    There was also Daoist Burning Lamp. Back when he obtained the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads, he was able to release strength at the perfected Great Dao level. It was all thanks to the Connate Cardinal treasure.


    There was Yang Jian as well. Although few people knew of it, when he cast his Divine Eye of Destruction, it was at the strength of a perfected Great Dao. It was a very powerful blow that even Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body could not withstand. However, the eye was not to be casually used. Similarly, the eye was something external and not a technique he cultivated himself.


    With Qin Yun''s cultivation to date, he was finally able to fully express the Qingping Sword''s strength to the perfected Great Dao level as the strongest sword immortal in the Three Realms.


    Of course, Qin Yun knew there was more to it than that.


    The gap between him and real perfected Great Dao existences remained vast. Those ancient existences were more well-rounded and they had more means. He was only able to produce strength at the perfected Great Dao with the Qingping Sword. This was why Daoist Burning Lamp was willing to sacrifice the twenty-four Sea Calming Beads to transform them into the twenty-four heavens for a breakthrough. Only by being independently strong would one strengthen one''s Essence Soul Dharmic powers, realm, and divine powers. Just relying on weapons made one lack several means.


    "Oh? Bai Ze appeared but did not save his disciple, Phoenix Voice?"


    "He even allowed Qin Yun to punish her as he wished?"


    "Qin Yun did not offer to release her and is still planning on imprisoning her for a hundred thousand years? That sure is some temper."


    "Don''t provoke him. Even with Demon Emperor Bai Ze appearing, he still plans on imprisoning her. With this temper, he might do anything if you truly enrage him."


    "After all, he only has a few thousand years left to live. A mighty figure that will die soon can naturally do anything."


    The mighty figures in the Three Realms were indeed alarmed.


    All of them decided not to offend Sword Immortal Qin. Even the disciples under them who were known to act belligerently were warned by these mighty figures.


    Qin Yun''s goal had been achieved!


    ******


    By the lake outside Red Fish City, Qin Yun and Bai Ze sat cross-legged on the grass while facing each other. In front of them was a wooden disk. A bottle of immortal brew and two alcohol cups were placed there.


    "You are presently the number one Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms. You are also the only Itinerant Immortal second to me in all of history," said Bai Ze with a smile. "While watching you take the same path as my previous incarnation, I feel worried for you, but I also wish to see how far you can go.


    "This path is very difficult."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I don''t even know if the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation is the end."


    Bai Ze nodded slightly. "Yes, I do not know if the twelfth is the end either. But I can tell you the might of the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation."


    "Thank you, Senior," said Qin Yun gratefully.


    "When I transcended the tribulation, many in the Three Realms were watching. I believe you gathered quite a bit of information regarding it," said Bai Ze. "The twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation is still the same three tribulations of ''Wind, Fire, and Lightning.'' The Wind and Fire tribulations were extremely powerful. If you can reach the perfected Great Dao realm, I believe passing the Wind and Fire tribulations would not be difficult. I''m referring to a personal breakthrough, and not reliance on the Qingping Sword."


    "Got it." Qin Yun nodded as he listened attentively.


    "The hardest is the Lightning tribulation," said Bai Ze with a frown. "That Lightning tribulation was as though the Heavenly Dao of the entire Three Realms was punishing me! It wanted me destroyed! Each bolt of Heavenly Lightning seemed to be born for destruction. It wanted to smite me into oblivion. I only managed to survive until the eighth Heavenly Lightning before capitulating. Not only did my body dissipate into nothingness, I was forced into reincarnation. I even hurt my soul''s essence.


    "You are different from me."


    Bai Ze looked at Qin Yun. "It''s impossible for the Fiend Ancestor to allow you a normal reincarnation. He will definitely attack while you undergo Samsara, completely destroying your soul, leaving only a wisp of True Spirit for reincarnation. And the reincarnation of a True Spirit¡­ would have no memories. You will no longer be yourself."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I know. I have no other choice."


    "Back then, we were a bunch of Chaos Godfiends. While probing the path of the Itinerant Immortal, there were other options, but you don''t have those," said Bai Ze. "I was the one who went the furthest but failed at the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. I wish for you to go further, so that I can see the path beyond."


    "I also wish to see what lies beyond," said Qin Yun.


    If one could live, who would wish to die?


    "Are there any tricks to withstanding the Heavenly Lightning?" asked Qin Yun.


    "As I said, the Heavenly Lightning was born for destruction, the obliteration of everything. What you need to do is defend against it, all the way to the end!" said Bai Ze.


    "It was born for destruction?" Qin Yun fell into deep thought.


    "Qin Yun, I have always been curious. Back when Yang Jian and the various heavenly troops from the Heavenly Courts and the Buddhist''s Arhats were prepared to rescue you, you could have brought your family along with you and a bunch of good friends¡­ and left the Great Chang world. And after that, you would have had a carefree and eternal life. You could continue cultivating your sword immortal path in peace," said Bai Ze. "However, you chose to transcend the tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal. You might even die mere thousands of years from now. Have you ever regretted that decision?"


    Qin Yun fell silent for a moment.


    "I do wish for an eternal and carefree life to be with my family," said Qin Yun, "but I have never regretted what I did. I saw the billions of lifeforms produced in the Great Chang world and saw countless children running around happily. I felt joy, joy from choosing to transcend the tribulations prematurely. I''m joyful that I protected them."


    Bai Ze looked at Qin Yun and muttered, "You do not regret, but feel joyous?"


    "For that, let me toast you." Bai Ze raised his wine cup.


    Qin Yun also raised his.


    The two enjoyed the wine.


    "I will keep watching you and see how far you can go." Bai Ze got up and turned to leave. His figure vanished into the plain wilderness.


    Qin Yun sat there alone and looked at the wine in front of him.


    "How far can I go? I do not know either." Qin Yun drank another cup before getting up to leave.

 621 Stepping on Qin Yun鈥檚 Tail

    A faint aroma emanated within a chamber.


    Bai Ze had been sitting cross-legged with his eyes closed when he suddenly opened his eyes. A incorporeal figure appeared in front of him and it was none other than Nine Phoenix.


    "Bai Ze, you appeared personally; yet, Qin Yun still imprisoned Phoenix Voice for a hundred thousand years! She is your disciple." Nine Phoenix could not help but comment. "Why are you on his side when he has imprisoned your disciple for so long?"


    "What can I do if he insists on imprisoning her?" Bai Ze looked at her.


    "You are a Demon Emperor!" Nine Phoenix said anxiously. "Doesn''t your reputation as a Demon Emperor count for something?"


    "As I said, what can I do if he insists on imprisoning her? Fight him?" asked Bai Ze. "By bestowing the Qingping Sword to Qin Yun, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor is making his attitude clear. He thinks very highly of his disciple. If I were to attack Qin Yun in the Heavenly realm, have you thought of the consequences if the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor takes action?"


    Nine Phoenix was taken aback. "The Dao Ancestor will not interfere in such trivial matters, right?"


    "If I do not fight him, the Dao Ancestor will naturally not do a thing. But it''s hard to tell what will happen if I attack. Besides, Phoenix Voice was wrong!" Bai Ze''s eyes were ice-cold. "She was too foolish! Who does she think she is? In terms of backing, Qin Yun is a human, a member of the biggest race in the Three Realms. The humans'' Three Sovereigns will definitely think highly of a human that has risen to prominence. He has a sect backing him, led by Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor who is well known for siding his disciples. No matter how you compare, we will always lose."


    Nine Phoenix fell silent.


    That was true¡­


    The humans were mighty and so was Green Touring Palace.


    Bai Ze said calmly, "Do things only when you are confident. If you lack the confidence, hold back. If you lose patience and step on his tail, who is to blame? As for her imprisonment of a hundred thousand years¡­ it will carry the benefit of letting her come to her senses. She needs to learn that she cannot offend anyone she wishes to in the Three Realms."


    "Nine Phoenix, you cannot blame anyone for being inferior. If you want to redress your unhappiness, cultivate well and break through to the perfected Great Dao. When that happens, Qin Yun will have to obediently bow before you when he sees you." Bai Ze looked at Nine Phoenix. "The demons have me as the only perfected Great Dao existence. That''s just too few."


    "The tenth prince is also a demon," said Nine Phoenix.


    "Lu Ya?" Bai Ze grunted. "Yes, he can be considered a member of the demons, but his mind is set on revenge. He wants to kill Hou Yi, and similarly, Hou Yi wants him dead. Would Lu Ya dare appear to fight on our behalf? He does not even dare appear in person and can only sneakily hide away. Although Lu Ya''s existence can serve as a form of shock and awe, it also makes Hou Yi view us demons as an enemy.


    "Us demons are now the weaker race. Compared to the humans, we are way too weak." Bai Ze looked at Nine Phoenix. "Nine Phoenix, it will not take long for the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Fiend Ancestor to leave the Three Realms. The ancient lurking existences will likely appear when that happens. The Three Realms will be in true turmoil when that happens. I wish for us demons to have an additional perfected Great Dao existence to share my burden."


    Nine Phoenix nodded slightly.


    Perfected Great Dao?


    She also yearned for it, but breaking through was just too difficult.


    Across history, people like Qin Yun and Daoist Myriad Treasure, whose initial attainment of the Dao was already directed straight at a perfected Great Dao, were able to cultivate very smoothly. For instance, Qin Yun''s Sword Dao contained Heaven, Earth, and Man. By figuring out the three Dao separately, he would naturally attain a perfected Great Dao. As for Nine Phoenix, she had gone down the path of the Fire Great Dao. That was much more difficult.


    There were ordinary mighty figures who studied the Fire Great Dao, such as the Heavenly Courts'' Fire Department, Luo Xuan.


    There were also pinnacle mighty figures like Nine Phoenix.


    There were also perfected Great Dao existences, such as Zhurong or Human Sovereign Suirenshi!


    "Whoosh." Nine Phoenix left.


    Bai Ze continued sitting cross-legged as he narrowed his eyes slightly. "Most demons only know to fight and to clash head-on. They once ruled over the Three Realms, but are in such dire states now. Who is to be blamed? For this trivial matter with Qin Yun, it''s best to go with his wishes and befriend him. Nothing is lost if he dies from failing to transcend the tribulations, but if a miracle really happens and there is an end to the Itinerant Immortal tribulations which he successfully transcends, he would have eternal life. His strength would probably be above Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain''s and he will become the new Eldest Senior Brother of Green Touring Palace! After Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor leaves the Three Realms, Qin Yun could very well be in control of Green Touring Palace and become its new leader.


    "There are many benefits to befriending him now.


    "Why can''t they tell that something, if done right, has nothing but benefits?" Bai Ze closed his eyes.


    ******


    "Master."


    The bound Phoenix Voice''s eyes had been filled with anticipation when she saw Demon Emperor Bai Ze appear, but he did not rescue her.


    She was bought to Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor and locked up in its dungeons.


    "Go in." Her Dharmic powers sealed, Phoenix Voice was thrown into a dungeon cell.


    She looked at her surroundings.


    It was a dungeon that spanned about a hundred feet. Her surroundings were filled with bare rocks.


    "How am I to pass the next hundred thousand years?" Phoenix Voice stood in the dungeon and touched her face. It had just been slapped. She felt lonely. In her pain and despair, she also felt regret. She also blamed her master for not rescuing her. All sorts of emotions churned in her mind.


    "Grandfather, we''ve already slapped her. Are we really imprisoning her for a hundred thousand years?" Qin Yuluo walked alongside Qin Yun outside the dungeon. She had indeed hesitated when she delivered the slaps.


    She was already imprisoned; yet, they had slapped her?


    "That''s what you call paying one back in her own coin," said Qin Yun indifferently. "Yuluo, sometimes you cannot be so kind and benevolent! If you are kind, the world will think of you as weak and easily bullied. Understand?"


    "Understood," answered Qin Yuluo obediently.


    "Furthermore, you cultivate in the Sword Dao. Your heart should be like a sword. A sword has to be drawn when necessary." Qin Yun looked at his granddaughter.


    "Okay." Qin Yuluo nodded.


    "Take a break for now." Qin Yun did not say anything more as he was not in a good mood.


    Although he had crushed Sagedemon Nine Phoenix under the watch of many experts in the Three Realms, and imprisoned Demon Emperor Bai Ze''s disciple, Phoenix Voice, for a hundred thousand years despite his appearance, he was still in a bad mood. This matter had indeed stepped on his tail.


    He had always worried that he earned many enemies from his storming of the Three Realms.


    If he were to die from his Itinerant Immortal tribulations in the future, what would happen to his family? Although he could do his best to make some preparations for them, they were ultimately just preparations.


    "Brother Yun, why are you drinking alone?" Yi Xiao walked over. "Are you really that mad over this matter?"


    Qin Yun put down his wine cup, his eyes slightly red. He looked at Yi Xiao and asked, "You know about it?"


    "You threw that Phoenix Voice into the dungeons, so I naturally asked Yuluo and learned of the reason," said Yi Xiao. "It''s just a trivial matter. Don''t be so sensitive about it."


    "I''m not." Qin Yun smiled but did not say further.


    Words were meaningless. Why add to his frustration?


    "By the way," Qin Yun asked with a laugh. "the cause of this jealous incident between Phoenix Voice and Yuluo was a particular Brother Meng. Do you know who Brother Meng is?"


    With Qin Yun''s ability to infer the past and future, especially after he figured out the Seven Stars Great Dao, it was easy for him to infer what had happened to his granddaughter in the past. He could easily investigate their past relationship.


    But...


    She was ultimately his granddaughter. If he were to infer Yuluo''s past, she would not have any secrets that she could keep from him. The closer someone was to him, the less Qin Yun wanted to intrude unless necessary.


    "Seriously, why didn''t you ask about such a serious matter?" said Yi Xiao. "It''s only when I learned of the matter that I pressed for the reason for her conflict with Phoenix Voice. Although Yuluo stuttered in embarrassment, she did tell me. That Brother Meng is Meng Fu, a disciple of Fuxishi, one of our humans'' Three Sovereigns. He is also a mighty figure in Fire Cloud Palace."


    "It''s him?" Qin Yun nodded in enlightenment.


    With a thought, he saw through karma.


    He sensed Meng Fu''s location and pinpointed it to be Fire Cloud Palace.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, decades had passed since Qin Yun''s battle with Nine Phoenix.


    Heavenly realm. Fire Cloud Palace.


    Fire Cloud Palace was the cultivation ground of the humans'' Three Sovereigns. All three of them had unfathomable strength.


    Fuxishi was originally the Chaos Godfiend, Fuxi. His relationship with Goddess N¨¹wa was like they were brother and sister. Later, he reincarnated as a human and became Human Sovereign Fuxishi. He was deemed to be the best at array formations among perfected Great Dao existences. Suirenshi''s Inextinguishable Torch Flame was famous in the Three Realms as well. Those skilled in fire were extremely powerful in direct combat. Suirenshi was the strongest among the humans'' Three Sovereigns. As for Shennongshi, he had mysterious and unfathomable means at his disposal. If he schemed against his enemy, it might not be as sinister and ruthless as Daoist Lu Ya, but it was on the same level. The only difference was that Shennongshi was more benevolent. He often left a sliver of chance to his victim.


    With these three presiding over humanity, the light which shone on humans from providence was rich. In addition, humans were created by Goddess N¨¹wa, so she was naturally a huge backer of humans. The Daoists and Buddhists were preaching everywhere, allowing humans to flourish even more. New mighty figures were born over time, and Qin Yun was one of them.


    "Everything is prepared. It''s time to take the Torch Flame Kindling." In a building in Fire Cloud Palace, Meng Fu was reading a book when he placed it down. There was a look of anticipation in his eyes.

 622 Torch Flame Kindling

    Meng Fu put down his book, got up, and left the room to stroll the large Fire Cloud Palace.


    "Uncle-Master."


    "Uncle-Master."


    "Uncle-Master."


    There were quite a number of cultivators in Fire Cloud Palace. Upon seeing Meng Fu, all of them bowed respectfully. With a smile, Meng Fu nodded slightly as he proceeded. It was unlike Green Touring Palace which had a mix humans, demons, and Godfiends. It was also unlike Jade Void Palace with its strict regulations. Fire Cloud Palace was more united, and it advanced as a union of humans, allowing its present-day prosperity.


    Fire Cloud Palace kept a low profile in the Three Realms, but it had the Three Sovereigns'' guidance. Fire Cloud Palace had dozens of mighty figures and, as a mighty figure himself, Meng Fu enjoyed an extremely high standing in Fire Cloud Palace.


    Meng Fu quickly arrived in front of an ancient hall. An elder stood watch inside.


    "Lord Meng," greeted the elder with a smile. "Why are you here in our Torch Flame Hall?"


    "I need to borrow the Torch Flame Kindling for studying," said Meng Fu with a smile.


    "Torch Flame Kindling?" The elder nodded slightly. "I believe you know the rules needed to borrow the Torch Flame Kindling, but I have to repeat them. It can be borrowed for not more than ten years. Studying the Torch Flame Kindling needs to be done inside Fire Cloud Palace. It cannot be taken out."


    "I know," said Meng Fu with a smile. The elder in front of him was just a Guardian puppet, so it did things in a rather inflexible manner. It repeated the rules every time.


    "Lord Meng, please wait a moment." The elder turned and entered the inner hall and soon came out holding a black wooden box. He handed it to Meng Fu.


    After receiving it, Meng Fu immediately opened the box.


    Inside the box was a ''kindling'' that emitted a warm fiery light. It looked smaller than a fist and its fiery light suffused redness and some warmth. It was like the only fire in a cold, lonely night, bringing warmth and hope. Continued examination of it would fill one''s heart with energy! That was the will to make the best out of life.


    To have fresh forces to continually take the place of those which had pushed ahead, one burned themselves to forge forward and pass down the torch.


    "This Torch Flame Kindling is indeed good. Suirenshi was able to figure out the Inextinguishable Torch Flame and had used it to attain a perfected Great Dao. God King Zhurong was born out of the Chaos and he grasped the Connate Fire Great Dao. He''s also a perfected Great Dao existence. It''s no wonder God King Zhurong wishes to obtain this Torch Flame Kindling. He likely wishes to improve his Fire Great Dao further and gain the Myriad Great Dao to attain the Heavenly Dao realm." Inside Meng Fu''s mind, Fiend King Boxun''s avatar reflected over the matter.


    Boxun had fought Suirenshi before.


    Suirenshi''s Inextinguishable Torch Flame was not as domineering as Zhurong''s might, but once something touched the fire, it was very difficult to extinguish! The threat was in no way lower than anything Zhurong could do.


    "Zhurong owes the Fiend Ancestor a favor since he was rescued from his imprisonment. Together with the Torch Flame Kindling, Fiend Ancestor plans on exchanging it for the lotus seed." Boxun''s avatar thought, "I can also obtain three Original Sin Flowers that were born in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, an amalgamation of all the sins in the Three Realms over eons. Both Fiend Ancestor and I will benefit greatly."


    ¡­


    With the Torch Flame Kindling in hand, Meng Fu returned to his residence in Fire Cloud Palace. He began cultivating normally.


    "This Torch Flame Kindling contains the heritage of the humans'' Three Sovereigns. Every study of it feels as though the Three Sovereigns are teaching me in person." Meng Fu mused while studying it. "However, the paths that Suirenshi, Fuxishi, and Shennongshi took¡­ provide me with little help."


    In terms of realm, as a King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun was in no way inferior to the Three Sovereigns. He had long gathered a portion of mighty figure manuals. He had even read the Fiend Ancestor''s Heavenly Dao realm heritage. However, just reading those materials was of little help when it came to taking that final step and reaching the Heavenly Dao realm. He needed to take that step himself.


    Attaining the Heavenly Dao realm was much harder than attaining a perfected Great Dao!


    After pretending to study the Torch Flame Kindling for three years, Meng Fu would occasionally stroll through Fire Cloud Palace and even discuss the Dao with his fellow disciples.


    "Uncle-Master."


    "Uncle-Master."


    That day, Meng Fu was walking in Fire Cloud Palace as usual.


    Soon, he arrived at the periphery of the Fire Cloud Palace. At the border of the Fire Cloud Palace''s array, Meng Fu even took a step that made him traverse dozens of kilometers. He very suddenly left Fire Cloud Palace.


    As a mighty figure of Fire Cloud Palace, he naturally had the authority to enter and exit. He did not face any obstruction.


    "Hahaha, this Fire Cloud Palace sure is confident, believing that it''s impossible for Fire Cloud Palace mighty figures to steal the Torch Flame Kindling and betray humanity? They actually allowed me to leave so easily? I thought I would be stopped at the final moment and have to storm my way out!" Boxun''s avatar was thrilled inside Meng Fu''s heart.


    As one of Boxun''s Six Desires avatars, he could barely release strength at the perfected Great Dao level if he gave his all.


    "Oh?"


    At the instant Meng Fu tore out of Fire Cloud Palace.


    Inside an ancient hall in Fire Cloud Palace was a man who sat cross-legged. It looked like he had experienced the vicissitudes of life and his black hair was disheveled. He was none other than the first Human Sovereign of the Three Sovereigns, Suirenshi.


    He had suddenly opened his eyes as a look of shock filled them.


    The Torch Flame Kindling was produced by him at a great price. It was also something unique produced by his Inextinguishable Torch Flame. Although the Inextinguishable Torch Flame was precious and the Three Sovereigns placed great importance on it, as long as the three remained alive, they could reproduce a Torch Flame Kindling even if they lost it. In addition, it was a heritage and Fire Cloud Palace mighty figures often studied it. It raised the strengths of human mighty figures rapidly.


    But he never expected that after all these years, a human mighty figure would dare leave Fire Cloud Palace with the Torch Flame Kindling. It was a severe violation of the rules and a betrayal of humanity.


    The Torch Flame Kindling was produced by him; therefore, he instantly sensed its departure from Fire Cloud Palace. He also knew just which mighty figure took away the Torch Flame Kindling.


    "It''s Meng Fu?" Suirenshi found it unbelievable.


    Meng Fu was a junior who rose up in the past tens of thousands of years. Suirenshi had also watched him grow. To every human mighty figure, Suirenshi would show them concern like they were his child. He also thought highly of Meng Fu and felt that with time, Meng Fu would eventually have a chance of becoming a pinnacle mighty figure.


    However, he had actually left Fire Cloud Palace with the Torch Flame Kindling? Was this a betrayal of humanity?


    ¡­


    "Time to leave."


    The moment he left Fire Cloud Palace, Meng Fu did not hesitate to tear through distant space and head for the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    However, just as he was about to leave, he discovered that the Torch Flame Kindling suddenly produced brilliant light. It tore through the wooden box, preventing him from tearing through the void with it.


    "Disciple, quickly return!" In loose robes, Fuxishi roared angrily with a voice transmission. His disciple had actually taken the Torch Flame Kindling away? How was he to face Suirenshi? While shouting angrily, Fuxishi had already charged out of Fire Cloud Palace, hoping that his disciple would not persist in his errors.


    Suirenshi and Shennongshi were also watching.


    The human''s Three Sovereigns were enraged with the first human junior in Fire Cloud Palace history to take the Torch Flame Kindling away.


    "There''s a contingency? Haha, then I''ll just take it away by force!" Meng Fu noticed something amiss and did not hesitate to grab the Torch Flame Kindling. Boxun released all his strength and barely reached the perfected Great Dao strength. It was even stronger than Meng Fu himself.


    "Boom!"


    The surrounding void shattered.


    The terrifying commotion immediately alarmed the Heavenly realm.


    The battle between Qin Yun and Nine Phoenix back then had alarmed the Heavenly realm, but it was only at the end when Qin Yun used the Qingping Sword to deliver the final blow. A stir at the level of a perfected Great Dao alarmed all parties. Even the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists would look over.


    And in Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor in the Heavenly realm.


    Qin Yun, who was cultivating, also sensed the terrifying energy blast.


    "Oh? It seems something major has happened?" He was somewhat puzzled as he looked into the distance at the fluctuation. His gaze tore through the distance of space and reached the scene outside Fire Cloud Palace.


    He saw it.


    He saw Meng Fu grabbing the Torch Flame Kindling in hand outside Fire Cloud Palace. He had a nasty look and he was releasing inexplicable strength. He caused the surrounding void to shatter, but the Torch Flame Kindling remained rooted to space as it emitted blinding light.


    Upon seeing the glaring Torch Flame Kindling, Qin Yun felt his heart stir.

 623 Illuminating a Path

    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged on a mat, was only watching out of curiosity.


    However, he lost his calm when he saw the shimmering Torch Flame Kindling. He stood up immediately, his eyes burning.


    "Torch Flame Kindling?" Qin Yun did not hesitate to approach Fire Cloud Palace''s exterior by taking a step forward and traversing the void.


    The nearer he was, the clearer he could see.


    When Qin Yun arrived outside Fire Cloud Palace, he saw ''Meng Fu'' clenching the Torch Flame Kindling tightly with a nasty and unresigned expression. He tried to move it but failed.


    "You are not Meng Fu!" Fuxishi stood in midair and sensed the energy that erupted from ''Meng Fu,'' only to bellow angrily, "You are Fiend King Boxun!"


    Fuxishi was very familiar with the strength that ''Meng Fu'' was releasing. He had even fought him before. It was the power of Boxun''s Six Desires avatars.


    Fuxishi was alarmed and furious.


    It was too easy for the mighty Boxun to scheme against an ordinary mighty figure.


    "Hahaha, it''s me. Don''t you incorrectly blame your disciple. Your disciple is really a man who wears his heart on his sleeve." ''Meng Fu'' cackled sinisterly as he looked at Fuxishi. "But he''s too infatuated with his wife. Just a little scheming from me and he succumbed all too easily."


    "Boxun, aren''t you being too shameless by scheming against a junior?" Fuxishi was enraged. At that moment, two figures tore through space and arrived on the scene. They were Suirenshi with his disheveled hair, making him appear to have experienced the vicissitudes of life, and wooden staff-wielding Shennongshi. The Three Sovereigns looked at ''Meng Fu'' angrily. Boxun actually dare to scheme against a mighty figure of their Fire Cloud Palace?


    "Boxun, you were known as the King of Myriad Fiends back then. Yet, you actually used underhanded means to deal with an ordinary mighty figure junior." Suirenshi shook his head gently.


    "Boxun, if you have the guts, come in your true body and fight us. If all you can do is scheme, you''ll be a joke to the entire Three Realms.


    While the Three Sovereigns were talking, they were discussing with voice transmissions.


    "What should we do?" Fuxishi was somewhat anxious.


    "Boxun''s Six Desires avatar has controlled Meng Fu. If we were to attack, we would only end up killing an avatar, but also kill Meng Fu. A loss of an avatar is nothing to Boxun, but Meng Fu would really be dead," said Suirenshi via voice transmission.


    "I know about my disciple''s obsession, but I never expected this to happen." Fuxishi was momentarily at a loss.


    "Fuxishi, Meng Fu isn''t to be blamed. Which cultivator doesn''t have an obsession? Who doesn''t have desires? All of Buddhism was once afraid of Boxun and suffered terribly under his machinations. With his status, he will succeed regardless of what he does against a junior," said Shennongshi.


    Fuxishi understood as well.


    Boxun was indeed terrifying.


    He was very powerful in direct combat and his underhanded techniques were extremely insidious.


    "Come in my true body? Haha, you are the humans'' Three Sovereigns. Suirenshi is strongest at frontal assaults, Fuxishi is best at array formations among perfected Great Dao existences, while Shennongshi is good in the art of medicine and poisons. If the three of you attack together, how many in the Three Realms would be foolish enough to clash with you head on?" ''Meng Fu'' laughed. It was also the truth. When fighting one on one, there were ancient existences who were slightly better than any one of the Three Sovereigns. However, if the three joined forces, they were invincible. They were even able to match Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    As he spoke, ''Meng Fu'' attempted different methods, but the Torch Flame Kindling remained floating in midair, preventing him from moving it.


    "What''s happening?" His eyes blinked and emitted a red glow.


    He saw it.


    The Torch Flame Kindling was invisibly connected to the distant Fire Cloud Palace. The two were like one. Trying to take the Torch Flame Kindling away was akin to taking away the entire Fire Cloud Palace.


    "You three sure are crafty." ''Meng Fu'' blinked his eyes as the red glow receded. He lowered his right hand and sneered at the Three Sovereigns. "The Torch Flame Kindling is actually a part of the entire Fire Cloud Palace''s array formation! It''s no wonder I can''t take it away."


    Fuxishi said indifferently, "The Torch Flame Kindling is an important treasure of my Fire Cloud Palace. Suirenshi refined it with great difficulty, so we naturally have to prevent it from being stolen. It''s just a tiny trick of arrays. It was set in place without much thought back then, but who knew that after so many years, you would actually attempt to steal it."


    ¡­


    Mighty figures from all over the Three Realms were paying attention.


    "Stealing the Torch Flame Kindling?"


    "Strange. Why would Fiend King Boxun steal the Torch Flame Kindling? It only has the Three Sovereigns'' heritage embedded in it. His strength isn''t inferior to the Three Sovereigns and he has learned many rare arts from his peers. He has even studied the Fiend Ancestor''s Heavenly Dao heritage. Why would he steal a mere Torch Flame Kindling?"


    "It is very strange indeed. Among the Three Sovereigns, they are respectively good at fire, array formations, and medicine and poisons. It''s very different from Boxun''s Six Desires Great Dao."


    "Furthermore, many ancient existences would exchange their rare arts. Even if he wishes to learn the heritage of the Three Sovereigns, there are other means. Why would he steal the Torch Flame Kindling?"


    The various entities were puzzled.


    The ancient existences who were stuck in the perfected Great Dao yearned to break through after seeing the Three Pure Ones, Buddhist Ancestor Gautama, Goddess N¨¹wa, and the Fiend Ancestor reach the Heavenly Dao realm.


    It was very difficult to gain access to Heavenly Dao realm heritage.


    Therefore, they would exchange their rare arts and draw lessons from one another in a bid to break through. For instance, Green Touring Palace had the rare arts of many mighty figures of other factions. The fiends had also gathered many rare arts¡­ There were always mighty figures in the Three Realms who were willing to trade with the fiends for their goals and desires.


    To actually steal the Torch Flame Kindling for a rare art that was on his same level?


    It left many baffled.


    ¡­


    God King Zhurong was watching this scene from a distance. When he saw the Torch Flame Kindling, his eyes even seemed to burn.


    "I never expected that over the years of my imprisonment¡­ someone of the future generation was able to reach the perfected Great Dao of fire. Furthermore, his Fire Dao is clearly different from mine." Zhurong was filled with anticipation. It was not difficult for him to learn Suirenshi''s rare arts, but the Torch Flame Kindling was the essence of the Inextinguishable Torch Flame. Suirenshi had paid a tremendous price to refine it.


    It was what Zhurong wanted the most.


    "To think the mighty Fiend Ancestor has failed to obtain the Torch Flame Kindling. Fiend King Boxun has still failed." Zhurong shook his head gently. "I have given the Ancestral Fiend a chance, a chance lasting three thousand years. Now that the three thousand years are almost up, I will no longer owe him. When that happens, I can trade for the Torch Flame Kindling directly.


    "I guess that I can exchange for the Torch Flame Kindling without needing to use that lotus seed." Zhurong was filled with confidence.


    Regardless of what happened, the Torch Flame Kindling would be his.


    ******


    In midair.


    Not far from Fire Cloud Palace, Qin Yun stood in midair, staring at the Torch Flame Kindling.


    The closer he was, the clearer the feeling it gave him.


    The Torch Flame Kindling''s light was very unique. It was not as glaring as the sun, so it didn''t prevent one from looking straight at it. The Torch Flame Kindling''s light¡­ was gentler, like a bonfire that rose up in the dead of winter, warming travelers that passed by. It was like the only fire in the night, giving people the warmth of life. It felt like a torch that someone had lit, illuminating the path ahead.


    "Torch Flame." Qin Yun looked with his heart palpitating.


    It was a palpitation of excitement!


    All these years, he had been stuck at the Great Dao of Man''s bottleneck. He failed to find the inspiration needed for the breakthrough and could only continue accumulating his insights.


    And now, while looking at the Torch Flame Kindling, it made the puzzled Qin Yun feel as though he was seeing fire ahead while lost in fog. The light of the fire illuminated a path for him.


    It was the path he should take for the Great Dao of Man.


    "Torch Flame heritage¡­


    "The Human Spirit."


    Qin Yun muttered.


    "I got it. What''s lacking the most in my Great Dao of Man?" Qin Yun came to a realization.


    In terms of accumulation, he had more than enough. There were many in the world who had reached the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. They would accumulate their insights to a bottleneck, but lack the final means to break through, to make their Great Dao perfect. Qin Yun knew that he had to truly understand the Human Spirit to make his previous accumulations fuse completely as one.


    "To figure out the true Human Spirit?" Qin Yun knew it was not simple.


    Just like his own Great Dao of Earth, he had found the inspiration and meditated in Mt. Three Blades for the eventual breakthrough.


    Now, he had found the inspiration.


    However, it was on the Human Spirit. It was a realization at the spiritual surface level of things. Qin Yun had made accumulations in this previously, so he was immediately enlightened when he saw the Torch Flame Kindling. The enlightenment even made him feel like he could command all the insights available to the Great Dao of Man and create a wholesome system.


    "Although I understand a little of the Human Spirit, my knowledge is insufficient for my breakthrough," thought Qin Yun. "I need to gain more insights and experience more.


    "I don''t know much about the Inextinguishable Torch Flame, but I can confirm now that the Great Dao of Man¡­ is only a portion of the Inextinguishable Torch Flame." Qin Yun understood this point. "Regarding the Great Dao of Man and the Human Spirit, perhaps I can seek the advice of Human Sovereign Suirenshi."

 624 Appreciation

    While Qin Yun was thinking of seeking Suirenshi''s advice, he watched the battle between Boxun and the Three Sovereigns.


    Now, all of the Three Realms was paying attention to the matter.


    "Hahaha."


    ''Meng Fu'' roared with laughter that resounded throughout the world. "As expected of the Three Sovereigns, to take every conceivable possibility into account. By leaving a backdoor in the Torch Flame Kindling making it one with the Fire Cloud Palace''s array, be it sneakily stealing it or openly snatching it¡­ it cannot be taken away. Impressive!"


    Suirenshi, Fuxishi, and Suirenshi exchanged looks as they felt tense.


    The more confident Boxun was, the more they felt a sense of foreboding.


    This was an existence that all of Buddhism feared¡­


    Such confidence likely meant that he had other tricks up his sleeve.


    "However, what I want naturally needs some thought placed into it." Meng Fu smiled at the Three Sovereigns. "It just so happens that, apart from controlling this young guy named Meng Fu, I am in control of another mighty figure in Fire Cloud Palace."


    "Another one is under his control?" The Three Sovereigns immediately turned worried. They paid great notice to every human mighty figure. Many of those cultivating in Fire Cloud Palace were their disciples. They shared a deep relationship with them.


    Meng Fu nodded slightly as he looked into the distance.


    A figure flew over from afar and it was none other than a chuckling fatty. He smiled while stroking his beard. "Greetings, Three Sovereigns."


    "My disciple!" Shennongshi''s eyes flashed a look of worry.


    Shennongshi was extremely skilled in the domain of medicine and poisons.


    Li Yu was the disciple he was most proud of. He was the only pinnacle mighty figure in the domain of medicine and poisons.


    "Li Yu." Suirenshi and Fuxishi also turned worried.


    "To control the both of them, I did not only pay the price of two Six Desires avatars," said Meng Fu with a smile. Li Yu also nodded by the side as he added, "Although Li Yu has a penchant for alcohol, he is ultimately a pinnacle mighty figure. I expended a Seven Emotions Six Desires fruit before succeeding. These two mighty figures are elites of you humans. I have no intention of killing them either.


    "Therefore, I want to make a trade with the three of you.


    "Their lives in exchange for the Torch Flame Kindling."


    Meng Fu chuckled and said, "As you know, once my Six Desires avatars are in full control, no one in the Three Realms can save them unless I voluntarily let them go free."


    The Three Sovereigns had heavy expressions.


    Without stealing or snatching, he forced the Three Sovereigns into making a decision. To hand it over or not?


    "Two choices.


    "The three of you can destroy my two avatars, but with a thought from me, Meng Fu and Li Yu¡ªtwo human mighty figures¡ªwould be reduced to dust with a poof. The Three Realms would no longer have them in existence.


    "The other choice allows the three of you to rescue these two mighty figures. I would not even take any of their treasures. All of this in exchange for a single Torch Flame Kindling. All Suirenshi needs to do is spend some time to condense a new one and you humans will have your strength unaffected. Isn''t that good?" Meng Fu laughed. "Both of them are rare breeds of men. One wears his heart on his sleeve despite being a little infatuated. The other is obsessed with herbs, but has a penchant for alcohol. It would truly be a pity if the both of them were to die.


    "Sovereigns¡­


    "Quickly make your choice."


    Meng Fu and Li Yu wore identical expressions as they smiled at the Three Sovereigns.


    At that instant, there were sighs from every corner of the Three Realms.


    "Fiend King Boxun sure has incredible means. Each of the Fire Cloud Palace mighty figures have extraordinary characters, but he managed to silently control two of them. One of them is even a pinnacle mighty figure."


    "Is this what Fiend King Boxun is capable of?"


    "Before the Buddhist Ancestor reached the Heavenly Dao realm, Boxun was able to fight a prolonged battle with the Buddhists by himself. His abilities at being a puppeteer of emotions and desires are better than Patriarch Mental Demon''s. What has just happened is just a trivial showcase of his abilities."


    "How terrifying!"


    "Those ancient existences can easily kill a pinnacle mighty figure, but to easily control a pinnacle mighty figure, only Boxun is capable of doing so. That is his most terrifying aspect. He is similarly very powerful when it comes to frontal attacks. Back then, he was the King of Myriad Fiends, the leader of the fiends. He enjoyed a status higher than the Fiend Ancestor."


    "The Three Sovereigns will likely agree to this trade. After all, Meng Fu and Li Yu are ordinary and pinnacle mighty figures respectively. The two of their lives and the treasures they possess definitely exceed a single Torch Flame Kindling."


    "In fact, simply using Meng Fu as the object of trade might be enough for the Three Sovereigns to agree. Humans place great emphasis on their ties."


    "Boxun was careful. An ordinary mighty figure is of lesser value. But if he adds a pinnacle mighty figure, that would definitely be enough to make the Three Sovereigns agree to the exchange."


    ¡­


    The situation developed as everyone imagined.


    During humanity''s rise, compromise was unavoidable. If they did not know how to compromise, humanity would not have developed to its present stage.


    "Alright, the Torch Flame Kindling is yours," said Suirenshi. "However, you are not to harm Meng Fu or Li Yu in any way. Furthermore, you have to promise us that you have not done anything else to other human mighty figures."


    "Haha, I, Boxun, am not that petty. I only controlled the two of them and have not done anything to other human mighty figures. I can even promise¡­ that in the next million years, as long as human mighty figures do not provoke me, I will not do anything to them," said Meng Fu with a smile.


    "A million years?"


    The Three Sovereigns'' hearts stirred as they came to a realization.


    The coming million years was probably the amount of time Boxun planned to lie in dormancy. He would then make a comeback when the Daoist Three Pure Ones, the Buddhist Ancestor, the Fiend Ancestor, and others departed.


    Suirenshi nodded and said, "Our promise implies karma. We believe you will not violate the karma."


    "Haha, I believe the Three Sovereigns will not violate such huge karma as well," said Meng Fu with a laugh.


    All of them wanted to cultivate to the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Therefore, none of them wished to violate such huge karma.


    This was also why God King Zhurong was willing to use the lotus seed to exchange for the Torch Flame Kindling from the Fiend Ancestor despite knowing that it was a trade of unequal objects. It was to end the karma of having Patriarch Blood Sea rescue him.


    "I''ll first release Meng Fu as a show of sincerity," said Li Yu with a smile. An invisible energy flew out of Meng Fu''s body and bore into Li Yu''s body. Li Yu also reached out his hand to grab the Torch Flame Kindling.


    Sou!


    This time, Li Yu was able to tear through space and vanish from the Heavenly realm. The Torch Flame Kindling was brought away without any resistance.


    Meng Fu also completely regained his consciousness.


    "Master." When Meng Fu saw Fuxishi, Suirenshi, and Shennongshi, he could not help but lower his head in shame. "I was useless. I¡­"


    In just a few seconds, Li Yu returned as well. He too wore a look of shame.


    "Master." Li Yu looked at Shennongshi.


    "From today forth, the both of you are to cultivate in Fire Cloud Palace silently for ten thousand years and are barred from leaving! Hone your minds properly," Suirenshi bellowed coldly. "Li Yu, you are not to touch any alcohol in this ten thousand years."


    "Can''t touch alcohol?" Li Yu bit his lips. He loved alcohol, but he knew that he had messed up badly.


    "Yes, I will bear with it for ten thousand years," said Li Yu.


    "If you can''t even bear with such a trivial thing, why even cultivate?" Shennongshi was most vexed, vexed that his disciple''s mind was so lacking that Boxun used it as a weakness.


    That was bringing bad things upon oneself as a result of one''s bad character.


    Boxun was a harbinger of bad things if he discovered any flaw in a cultivator''s character. It allowed him to seep in and gain control.


    "Both of you are to return to Fire Cloud Palace first," shouted Suirenshi.


    "Yes." Meng Fu and Li Yu bowed obediently and, without saying anything else, flew straight into Fire Cloud Palace.


    Suirenshi, Fuxishi, and Shennongshi looked in another direction. Standing in midair was a youth and he was none other than Qin Yun.


    Many mighty figures had spectated the battled remotely. After all, Boxun and the Three Sovereigns were extremely terrifying existences in the Three Realms. If the battle of these existences were to drag on, the remnant blasts of the battle could implicate others. It was best to stay as far as possible. The only person that came close was Qin Yun!


    In fact, watching at such a close distance was quite impolite.


    However, Qin Yun had been inspired. In order to seek a breakthrough, he had rushed here.


    Suirenshi laughed. "The three of us have long heard of the rise of a impressive human junior, but we had never had the chance to meet you. Sword Immortal Qin, now that you are here, why don''t you join us in Fire Cloud Palace for a drink. Will you have a chat with us three fogies?"


    "Seniors, I do wish to seek the advice of the three of you." Qin Yun lowered his body greatly.


    "Haha, come."


    Suirenshi showed the warmest reception while Fuxishi and Shennongshi looked smilingly at Qin Yun.


    The three of them thought highly of him.


    He was a rare human junior of excellent pedigree after all these years!

 625 Human Spiri

    Suirenshi, Fuxishi, and Shennongshi entered Fire Cloud Palace with Qin Yun. This made the mighty figures who were watching this scene across the Three Realms break out into discussion.


    "The Three Sovereigns sure have a close relationship with Sword Immortal Qin. Look at Suirenshi, he''s beaming so happily."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is human, so the Three Sovereigns would naturally have close ties with him."


    "Humans are getting stronger. With the Qingping Sword in hand, this Sword Immortal Qin''s strength is nearly equal to the perfected Great Dao. The humans now have an additional expert."


    "Let''s see if this Qin Yun is able to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. The twelfth tribulation Itinerant Immortal is something that will vanquish even perfected Great Dao experts!"


    ¡­


    Mighty figures from everywhere were discussing.


    Qin Yun and the Three Sovereigns entered the Fire Cloud Palace together.


    "Fire Cloud Palace."


    While walking in the ancient, spartan but lofty palace, Qin Yun felt an upheaval of emotions. Although Fire Cloud Palace kept a low profile in the Three Realms, it was a sacred land of humanity. It was where the Three Sovereigns and many mighty figures cultivated.


    Qin Yun could tell at a glance that many disciples bowed reverently from afar when they saw the Three Sovereigns before continuing with what they were doing.


    "Inside our Fire Cloud Palace, there are many human warriors cultivating here," introduced Suirenshi with a smile. "Sword Immortal Qin, if you wish, you can come to Fire Cloud Palace and cultivate for a while. The Dharmic formulation heritage we have are free for you to peruse. Don''t worry, there are no limitations to reading our heritage. You can come and go as you wish."


    "Senior Suirenshi, you can call me Qin Yun," said Qin Yun immediately. "I''ll definitely come to Fire Cloud Palace to cultivate if there''s an opportunity."


    "Alright." Suirenshi was in a rather good mood.


    "What are the two of you doing?" Fuxishi suddenly reprimanded.


    Meng Fu and Li Yu were standing obediently at the entrance of the hall ahead of them. They were waiting to be punished.


    "We made terrible mistakes and messed up badly. We know it''s impossible for us to make things right, so Master, please punish us," said Li Yu immediately. Meng Fu also bowed and said, "Master, please punish us."


    "Hone your minds," bellowed Fuxishi.


    "Properly hone your minds and characters," said Shennongshi as well. "What are you waiting for? Leave."


    Meng Fu and Li Yu exchanged looks.


    They retreated obediently in a hurry. From the looks of it, the punishment was just secluded cultivation for ten thousand years with them being barred from leaving Fire Cloud Palace. They had believed that there were more heavy punishments awaiting them.


    "Actually, the recent debacle was not fully their fault." As Fuxishi watched the two leave, he said regretfully, "This punk, Meng Fu, is an infatuated man. He can''t forget his wife from his mortal days and already had an obsession in him. I don''t think it''s wrong. Human cultivators have a lot of obsessions! Only with obsessions will they feel inspired to cultivate more assiduously. As such, obsessions can be a boon to cultivation. As for Li Yu''s penchant for alcohol? It''s normal for mighty figures to have some hobbies. Although he''s overly besotted by alcohol, it''s not a serious mistake either."


    "As a human, how can we lack emotions and desires?" said Fuxishi with a sigh.


    Shennongshi added, "Even Buddhist cultivators are not able to be completely devoid of emotions and desires. It is also why Fiend King Boxun is able to stir tumultuous waves every time. He is shameless and if he spares no expense, it is very normal for him to control them."


    "The only fault that lies with them is their mental fortitude. Even with obsessions and desires, as long as one''s mental fortitude is strong enough, as firm as a rock, then they would not be easily controlled by Boxun," said Suirenshi. "Having emotions and desires is not wrong, but one has to be able to control these emotions and desires. Under Boxun''s lead, they failed to remain stoic and ended up being controlled by their emotions and desires, turning into puppets."


    Qin Yun nodded in approval.


    Simultaneously, he had other thoughts. "Meng Fu is very infatuated. His pinings for his wife from his mortal days have even turned into an obsession? Then, is my granddaughter having a one-sided love?"


    ¡­


    The Three Sovereigns sat cross-legged while Qin Yun sat beneath them to their left.


    "Seniors." Qin Yun could not help but ask the thing on his mind the first thing he sat down. "I''ve been troubled on one particular aspect in my cultivation of the Great Dao of Man."


    "Great Dao of Man?" Suirenshi, Shennongshi, and Fuxishi laughed.


    "The three of us have figured out this Great Dao." Suirenshi smiled at Qin Yun. "Tell us of anything that''s troubling you."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    The Three Sovereigns had figured it out?


    Something that had stumped him for so long had already been figured out by the Three Sovereigns. This made Qin Yun feel that his chances of breaking through had increased again.


    "In the Great Dao of Man I cultivate, I''m puzzled over the Human Spirit," said Qin Yun. "I would like to seek your advice on this."


    "Human Spirit?" The Three Sovereigns exchanged looks.


    "This is quite a difficult problem." Suirenshi smiled and said, "Let me give you a parable. Once upon a time, when we humans were still weak, we were still in our infancy as a race. There was no cloth or silk in those days. Humans had to wear beast hides, walk bare feet, and eat raw flesh. Later humans gradually discovered the usage of fire. They learned to roast and cook meat. They even learn to boil soup.


    "But where does fire come from?


    "The earliest days was when lightning struck. It would naturally cause fire to appear. It was carefully gathered by us humans. It gave us tiny flames. Humans need sleep, but the fire cannot be extinguished!" Suirenshi continued, "Day after day, night after night, humans would take turns adding timber. Months turned to years, and years turned to centuries. The torch was handed down and the fire remains inextinguishable. Generations of humans carefully protected the flames, because if they were extinguished, it would be difficult to find new fire sources.


    "Without fire, there will be coldness and hunger. There would only be raw meat to eat and the death and injuries of the tribe would increase."


    "This is the earliest passing down of the torch." Suirenshi narrated very calmly. "In that period, there were too many stories because of fire. The person that caused the flame to extinguish would be the tribe''s sinner. A hundred deaths would be insufficient to make up for his mistake! And if anyone was able to bring fire, they would be the savior of the tribe and made leader immediately!


    "Qin Yun, in this parable is the Human Spirit I figured out," said Suirenshi. "Of course, it sounds very simple, but it''s difficult to truly understand it without experiencing it yourself."


    He had been around when humanity was in its infancy. He had experienced many of the things he described himself.


    Qin Yun was deep in thought.


    "I''ll tell a parable as well," said Shennongshi. "My parents died when I was little, a natural death. In that period, humans had short lifespans. It was common for them to die in their twenties or thirties. It was a miracle if one lived to forty. I embarked on a path of cultivation, but countless did not. They were only able to struggle among mortals.


    "Therefore, I focused on studying herbs, hoping to find the most suitable way for mortals to not die from any trivial illness. It was to make them live longer and be able to accompany their children. They would be able to go further with their loved ones, making the world more complete and have less regrets.


    "This parable also has the Human Spirit I figured out." Shennongshi looked at Qin Yun.


    Fuxishi looked at Qin Yun and said, "I won''t be telling parables. All I can tell you is that the Human Spirit is not something that can be figured out by thinking or speaking. You have to live it yourself! Do it with your body and strength."


    "The Human Spirit? Doing things with body and strength?" muttered Qin Yun.

 626 Severing Emotions

    The two stories and Fuxishi''s words gave Qin Yun many ideas.


    In fact, his heart had stirred when he saw the Torch Flame Kindling. He vaguely saw the direction he needed to pursuit for the breakthrough of the Great Dao of Man. Being able to see a direction meant that he had already accumulated enough insight. Every moment spent, every action and word of Qin Yun, was implementing the Dao in his heart. The Dao he had in his heart was already very close to the Human Spirit. This was the reason for his stir, allowing him to feel that the breakthrough was at hand.


    "Seniors, it seems your insights into the Human Spirit are somewhat different?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Everyone''s understanding of the world is different," said Fuxishi. "There will naturally be differences in the understanding of the Human Spirit."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly and smiled. "Thank you for your advice, Seniors."


    "We were only giving you a little guidance," said Suirenshi with a smile. "The actual cultivation will depend on you."


    "The Itinerant Immortal tribulations are not easy to transcend. If there''s any help you need from us, feel free to mention it," said Shennongshi. "All of us are looking forward to the birth of another perfected Great Dao human."


    "I naturally look forward to gaining eternal life after transcending the tribulations." Qin Yun laughed. "Who would wish to die if they could live? Seniors, I have another matter that needs Meng Fu''s attention."


    "Oh?" Fuxishi looked at Qin Yun.


    "It''s a junior of mine that has karmic involvement with Meng Fu. I wish to bring her here to see Meng Fu," said Qin Yun.


    Meng Fu was being punished for his faults.


    He had to cultivate for ten thousand years to hone his mind! If Qin Yun wanted to bring his granddaughter to see him, he needed to seek the Three Sovereigns'' permission.


    "That''s nothing." Fuxishi nodded. "Karma needs severing. It will only lead to problems in cultivation if karmic implications continue."


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Manor.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo looked at Qin Yun''s avatar in front of her.


    "My true body is in Fire Cloud Palace. Come over now," instructed Qin Yun.


    "I''m to go to Fire Cloud Palace?" Qin Yuluo was astonished and hesitant. She was worried because Brother Meng was a mighty figure of Fire Cloud Palace.


    "Come quick," ordered Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Qin Yuluo did not dare violate her grandfather''s order.


    ¡­


    Fire Cloud Palace.


    Qin Yuluo cast Major Void Transference and arrived to see Qin Yun standing there to receive her.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo immediately flew over.


    "Follow me." Qin Yun instructed. The cultivators responsible for guarding Fire Cloud Palace did not stop them as Qin Yuluo followed Qin Yun the entire way.


    While walking through the massive Fire Cloud Palace, Qin Yuluo felt more perplexed. She asked with a whisper, "Grandfather, why did you want me here in Fire Cloud Palace?"


    "To meet someone," said Qin Yun.


    "Meet someone?" Qin Yuluo''s heart quivered as she could not help but guess.


    Could it be Brother Meng?


    Soon.


    Qin Yun brought his granddaughter to spot outside a sealed hall. The doors were tightly shut, but Qin Yun still knocked on one.


    "Whoosh." A Guardian General materialized outside the door. Upon seeing Qin Yun and his granddaughter, he said, "Master has said that he has committed a grave sin and will be reflecting over his deeds. He is to meet no one in the next ten thousand years."


    "Just tell him that Qin Yun wants to meet him," instructed Qin Yun. "I have already mentioned it to the Three Sovereigns and they have permitted it."


    "You have informed the Three Sovereigns?" The Guardian General was astonished.


    He knew that it was the Three Sovereigns who had punished his master.


    "I''ll pass the word." The Guardian General''s ethereal figure shrank inside the hall.


    Qin Yuluo asked nervously, "Grandfather, who are we meeting?"


    Qin Yun was in no hurry to answer.


    "Creak."


    The door finally opened. When Meng Fu heard the name "Qin Yun" and that his entry was permitted by the Three Sovereigns, he did not dare make Qin Yun wait. Sword Immortal Qin was a force to be reckoned in the Three Realms. With the Qingping Sword in hand, he was an existence with the strength of a perfected Great Dao existence. He was able to push the ancient Sagedemon, Nine Phoenix, to the brink of death with just six strikes. Therefore, why would he dare keep the door closed?


    "Brother Meng." Qin Yuluo was alarmed.


    "Yuluo." Meng Fu also looked in astonishment at Qin Yuluo.


    "Senior Qin, please enter." Meng Fu immediately invited them in politely.


    Qin Yun walked straight into the hall.


    The three took their seats.


    Qin Yun looked at Meng Fu as his eyes tore through the heavenly secrets. After figuring out the Seven Stars Great Dao, his ability to see through the heavenly secrets had improved greatly. He could clearly a romantic red line tied tightly to a remnant soul he protected in his Essence Soul. The romantic red line was bound tightly and went deep into his Essence Soul.


    "He''s truly a romantic. Furthermore, his mortal wife''s reincarnation is only a remnant soul now? It seems a little chaotic?" Qin Yun shook his head in secret.


    He did not have the capacity to pity him.


    His trip here was to end the obstruction to his granddaughter''s cultivation.


    "Senior Qin, why are you here?" asked Meng Fu with a smile.


    "Yuluo." Qin Yuluo looked at his granddaughter. "You have to know that Meng Fu is a romantic. He still pines for his wife from his mortal days."


    "Wife from his mortal days?" Qin Yuluo was taken aback.


    Meng Fu did not make public such saddening matters, so this was the first time Qin Yuluo learned of it.


    Qin Yun continued, "It is a love that entwines him deeply into his Essence Soul. It''s unlikely he can forget even if millions of years pass. He will not have his heart stirred by another woman the rest of his life. Meng Fu, am I right?"


    Meng Fu smiled ruefully. "Senior Qin, you are truly sharp and wise. It has not only reached deep into my Essence Soul, it has already become an obsession in me. It even allowed Fiend King Boxun control me easily. But¡­ My wife was pulled into his schemes, resulting in her soul becoming chaotic and incomplete. It was my fault. If I had been able to forgot her completely, she would not have suffered this fate."


    Qin Yuluo listened in a daze.


    "There are certain things you need to make clear, or it will waste the time of others," Qin Yun said coldly. He was certain that Meng Fu could tell that Qin Yuluo had feelings for him.


    "Yuluo and I met by chance. I did notice her feelings, but was afraid I would hurt her if I spoke directly. I felt that she would slowly understand with time," said Meng Fu.


    "Hmph!"


    Qin Yun snorted. "Don''t you know cultivation? Matters of the heart will only cause trouble if not sorted out! As a sword cultivator, if her heart cannot be akin to a sword, there''s no way she can attain the Great Dao!"


    People who cultivated in the Sword Dao were decisive.


    Matters of the heart impacted cultivation greatly. Qin Yun''s trip here was to sever his granddaughter''s feelings for Meng Fu. The man was obsessed with his wife, so any delay would only make things worse for his granddaughter. It was best to end any emotions she had for him.


    The pain would only be temporary.


    Severing this unrequited love would only bring benefits to his granddaughter''s cultivation.


    Meng Fu was alarmed as he immediately looked at Qin Yuluo and said, "Yuluo, it''s my fault. I only thought that you would slowly understand with time, but I forgot that it would negatively impact your cultivation. It''s my fault."


    "It''s not your fault, Brother Meng." Qin Yuluo finally spoke. Her smile remained brilliant. "It was only wishful thinking on my part. By the way, what kind of person is she to the point that you have not forgotten her after tens of thousands of years of cultivation?"


    "Ah Yan?" Meng Fu''s face suffused a smile as he said softly, "I got to know her in my youth. She was only fifteen back then. She was a gentle woman, looking ordinary in the eyes of others, but the most perfect woman in my eyes. Even after cultivating for tens of thousands of years, everything about her still seems to play before my eyes. It was as though all of that happened yesterday. She has already turned into my life. I know I will never forget her no matter how long I live. I''m willing to live with it even if it has turned into an obsession."


    Qin Yun looked at Meng Fu and sighed secretly.


    What infatuation¡­


    Back when his wife was taken away, he had searched the entire world for her. He too could understand Meng Fu''s feelings.


    "That''s nice." Qin Yuluo nodded with a smile. Following that, she looked at Qin Yun. "Grandfather, let''s return."


    "Alright. Let''s go." Qin Yun got up immediately. He knew he could not do much, but what happened was necessary. It did not benefit anyone if this continued.

 627 Enlightenmen

    Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar with his granddaughter.


    "Grandfather, I need to cultivate in seclusion. Do not let anyone come to East Jade Yard from this day forth," said Qin Yuluo.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "No one will disturb your cultivation."


    The Qin Manor occupied an extensive piece of land.


    East Jade Yard was where Qin Yuluo typically lived and cultivated. Now, she had barred entry to prevent herself from being disturbed.


    "I was such a joke." Qin Yuluo sat on a granite platform by the side of the corridor. She fell into a daze while hugging her knees. This lasted for three months.


    ¡­


    "You pulled Yuluo along to meet Meng Fu?" Yi Xiao was alarmed.


    "Having cultivated for thousands of years, why even cultivate if she can''t handle something as trivial as this?" Qin Yun thought nothing of it. He had experienced and seen a lot. From his point of view, his granddaughter''s simple crush was nothing.


    Yi Xiao could not help but say, "But love is something that hurts the most."


    "I will not separate true lovers but our Yuluo was just infatuated! That Meng Fu''s mind and heart is all on his wife from his mortal days. It has even turned into an obsession," retorted Qin Yuluo. "It''s better to sever any infatuation that has no hope early."


    "You should do it slow, but you were so direct," said Yi Xiao. "Yuluo is now in seclusive cultivation and who knows how she is."


    "Don''t underestimate her. I think she resembles me in many ways." Qin Yun smiled. "She just lacks setbacks."


    Qin Yun suffered many setbacks in his childhood.


    Even his embarking of the sword immortal path was through a legacy he obtained. He honed himself in cultivation without any master to guide him. He had to create his own Sword Immortal Essence Soul Dharmic formulation before he became a disciple of the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. The experiences of his cultivation to date¡­ were indeed much more arduous than what Qin Yuluo had experienced. Every sword''s blade was produced from tempering. Qin Yuluo had very high talent, in no way inferior to his. However, the setbacks she experienced were too few. As such, her achievements were far inferior to Qin Yun''s.


    ******


    In the cosmos.


    God King Zhurong and the Fiend Ancestor''s female form met each other from afar. Behind Zhurong was a massive Great World and he stood at the boundary of that Great World. The Fiend Ancestor''s true body was unable to step into a Great World, so all she could do was stand beyond the boundary.


    "Zhurong, this is the Torch Flame Kindling you want." The Fiend Ancestor smiled as she threw out a wooden box.


    Zhurong''s eyes lit up as he caught it and opened it.


    The wooden box contained the Torch Flame Kindling which emitted a warm glow. Zhurong was somewhat mesmerized by it. It was a flame much different from his own. "This flame is not domineering at all, and even does not have terrifying heat, but a different power. It makes this flame even more tricky than Negative Karma Fire¡­"


    Zhurong was a Chaos Godfiend who was able to control flames since birth. The Torch Flame Kindling had indeed shocked him.


    "Zhurong, you have plenty of time to study it. Now, it''s time to do what you need to do," said the Fiend Ancestor. "The Torch Flame Kindling is now with you. Where''s the lotus seed I want?"


    "Haha, don''t worry. I will not go back on my word," said Zhurong with a laugh. He was determined to achieve the Heavenly Dao realm, so how could he owe such huge karma?


    "Here''s the lotus seed you want."


    Zhurong took out a jade bottle and pulled off its stopper. A green lotus seed filled with immense vibrancy flew out. Just seeing it with the naked eye made one feel the inconceivable strength it contained. Even the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao would recede in the face of it. It was as though it was the most precious item in the universe.


    The Fiend Ancestor could not hide her look of excitement. She extended her hand and grabbed the green lotus seed.


    "Lotus Seed of Fate," the Fiend Ancestor muttered. "I''ve finally obtained it."


    "You made a killing using a Torch Flame Kindling refined by Suirenshi to exchange for the Lotus Seed of Fate," said Zhurong with a laugh. "If I were to offer the seed to Suirenshi directly, he would even be willing to refine three Torch Flame Kindlings for the exchange."


    "Haha, the karma between us has been severed," said the Ancestral Fiend with a smile.


    Zhurong nodded slightly.


    The trade that seemingly disadvantaged him was meant to sever the karma.


    Furthermore¡­


    "In the eyes of many experts in the Three Realms, the Lotus Seed of Fate is a lot more valuable than the Inextinguishable Torch Flame, but to me, this is the most important thing in all of the Three Realms." Zhurong looked at the Torch Flame Kindling in the wooden box. "If I can figure out the Inextinguishable Torch Flame and fuse it with my flame, perhaps I can break through. From a single Dao, I''ll advance to the myriad Dao and achieve the Heavenly Dao realm."


    The Fiend Ancestor and Zhurong were both filled with excited anticipation.


    ¡­


    And in Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor in the Heavenly realm.


    Qin Yuluo was alone in East Jade Yard without anyone disturbing her.


    First she sat in a daze for three months.


    "He has a love in his heart to begin with, so why am I holding hope for him? From this day forth, we shall go our separate ways." Qin Yuluo got up and began practicing her swordplay, venting all her emotions into her sword arts.


    She practiced day and night.


    No one disturbed her. In the beginning, she was only venting with her swordplay, but as years passed, she finally calmed her heart.


    It was as though the world only had her and the sword in her hand.


    About fifty years after her seclusive cultivation.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun, who was chatting with Yi Xiao over tea, suddenly stood up and looked toward East Jade Yard.


    "What happened?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "Good. Good. Good," Qin Yun said happily.


    "What are you so happy?" inquired Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "It''s Yuluo. She has been cultivating all this while. Just moments ago, the sword array she conjured had strength equivalent of that of a mighty figure''s!"


    "Equivalent to a mighty figure''s?" Yi Xiao was astonished. "Yuluo has broken through?"


    "There might still be some obstructions in her attaining of a Great Dao, but her strength does match a mighty figure at the moment," said Qin Yun with a sigh. "Although I have painstakingly taught her, just like how Jade Void Palace teaches its disciples, there are few in the Three Realms that have the strength of mighty figures. This is the same for ancient existences at the perfected Great Dao. I never expected to see Yuluo break through so early before my final tribulation."


    Qin Yun was very pleased.


    He was happy that his lineage would not end with him and that Qin Manor would have someone to support it after him.


    "Severing her emotional ties and cultivating for decades in seclusion before a breakthrough. Even if all the time is counted, it has only taken her a few millennia." Qin Yun roared with laughter. "To match that of a mighty figure in a few millennia, Yuluo''s talents are indeed high. I believe she will be able to become a mighty figure if she continues accumulating her insights! She might even be able to become a pinnacle mighty figure."


    "It''s no wonder Yuluo caught the fancy of Perfected Jade Tripod from Jade Void Palace. His keen eye is truly impeccable." Qin Yun was rather pleased with himself.


    He also believed that Yuluo was very talented.


    However, she had exceeded his expectations to match a mighty figure that quickly.


    "Look at how happy you are," said Yi Xiao with a smile. "I don''t even see you that happy when you break through yourself."


    "It''s different. I have Itinerant Immortal tribulations awaiting me while Yuluo has eternal life. It''s possible that Qin Manor will be counting on her in the future," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Why are you saying that? Brother Yun, you will definitely transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Haha, yes. I''ll definitely transcend it." Qin Yun laughed.


    At that moment, Qin Yun even felt enlightened.


    It was said that the torch was always passed down.


    To see Yuluo step forward to continue being the Qin family''s pillar of support made Qin Yun suddenly have a deeper understanding of what it meant to pass down a torch.


    My responsibilities are yours.


    All I care for will be handed to you for protection.


    I will leave everything to you.


    "The Human Spirit?" Qin Yun could sense that the moment of enlightenment made him even closer to the Great Dao of Man.


    But to figure out the Great Dao of Man like that? Clearly, it was not sufficient.


    But being one step closer made Qin Yun realize how he should continue his cultivation.


    "Xiaoxiao," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes?" Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun.


    "Back when I met the Three Sovereigns in Fire Cloud Palace, they gave me guidance me on the Great Dao of Man. Over the past few decades, I have been meditating over it. However, I think it''s time I travel. I believe my understanding of the human world is lacking. I want to take a careful look at it and experience it. I want to seek out the Great Dao of Man from the mortal world and the secular world," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up. "Sure. Brother Yun, when do you plan on leaving? Are you going to see Yuluo first?"


    "No. I''ll be setting off after I finish this tea with you," said Qin Yun.

 628 Noticed by Qin Yun

    The Qilan Nation''s territory spanned thousands of kilometers, but it was only considered an ordinary human nation in the Changyu Great World.


    The capital city of the Qilan Nation had a population of a million. It had many cultivators and was quite a thriving city.


    "A new bookstore has opened here?"


    "It looks pretty good."


    Customers felt enticed to enter the newly opened bookstore when they walked past the streets.


    There was a shop assistant and the boss inside the bookstore. The boss was dressed plainly and read in a corner. As for the assistant, he tended to the guests.


    The boss was none other than Qin Yun!


    "I have already been out for three centuries. I have been seeking the Human Spirit in the human world and have accumulated some insights, but it is still insufficient. This time, I''ll spend a few decades in Qilan Nation''s capital as a bookstore''s boss. I hope I can gain something and be able to figure out the Great Dao of Man in one fell swoop." Qin Yun was filled with anticipation.


    He stopped thinking as he began reading leisurely.


    Books were the crystallization of human wisdom.


    Humans were spread throughout the Three Realms, so they naturally had countless books. Although the bookstore only had books from the Qilan Nation, many of them were quite interesting.


    "Boss, your assistant can''t make the call," shouted a middle-aged man. "I''m buying many books. I want these ten plus books. Sell them to me cheap. It''s not like I''m offering something too low."


    "Boss, he wants a 40% discount," whispered the assistant hurriedly.


    Qin Yun smiled at the middle-aged man. "Sir, you are clearly a knowledgeable man, but this shop of mine needs to pay rent. 40% won''t do. 30% is the most I can give."


    "Do you even know how to do business?" The middle-aged man was rather displeased.


    "I really can''t offer lower than that. Really." Qin Yun shook his head, not feeling vexed at all.


    The middle-aged man selected three books and said, "Alright, it will be these three books. If you give me a 40% discount, I''ll buy more."


    Qin Yun smiled as he handled the customer.


    ¡­


    After one full day of handling all kinds of customers, the bookstore shuttered for the day.


    Behind the bookstore was a residence.


    Qin Yun lived upstairs while the assistant lived in one of the side rooms below.


    "Qilan Nation." Qin Yun gazed through the void while in his room as he set his sights across the entire city.


    He was accustomed to observing after so many years in the secular world. He chose this capital city also because it had all walks of life.


    While observing, Qin Yun saw two young beggars in a dilapidated house in the west city''s slums.


    "Brother, you are finally back. I''m starving."


    "Look what I brought back?" A beggar who looked a little taller took out half a mantou which looked a little dirty and handed it to his younger brother.


    "A mantou?" The other beggar''s eyes lit up. He received it and immediately tore it, handing half of it to his brother.


    "I''ve already eaten and am already full," said his elder brother.


    "Full?" His brother was still young as he felt puzzled.


    "Yeah." He rubbed his tummy which looked a little bloated.


    His younger brother nodded and immediately began chomping down on the food.


    He watched with a smile. "No one is snatching it from you. Eat slowly."


    "Okay." His younger brother nodded.


    Soon.


    The brothers fell asleep as they curled up under a torn straw mat.


    "Groan." The elder brother was jolted awake from his hunger. As he looked at his brother beside him, he used the torn straw mat to cover his brother properly before going back to sleep.


    "He is willing to starve just to give his younger brother something to eat? They are only two young beggars. How long can they last in the capital of the Qilan Nation?" Qin Yun watched silently and commanded with a thought.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two blurry beams of light flew into the young beggars'' bodies.


    Both of them had dreams of an immortal imparting cultivation Dharmic formulations to them. When they woke up the next day, they found themselves rejuvenated. They even had their strengths increased.


    Their fate¡­ changed from that moment forth.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched the mortal world and would occasionally take action. He simply needed to will it and was willing to do it.


    On his twelfth night as the bookstore''s owner in Qilan Nation.


    Qin Yun heated up a flask of alcohol and drank it as he continued watching the Qilan Nation''s capital.


    This time, he saw the yard of an inn.


    In the yard stood a linen-clothed elder. A beam of light descended and materialized into a man with gorgeous clothes.


    "You actually haven''t forgotten me." The elder''s expression was cold.


    The man bowed immediately and smiled. "Master, please accept your disciple''s bow!"


    "Do you still remember what I told you?" The elder looked at his disciple.


    The man felt a little embarrassed, but he continued smiling. "Master, I have already cultivated to the Skyimmortal realm. I''m a preceptor of the Qilan Nation and enjoy a carefree life. Is there any wrong with that? I haven''t done anything evil."


    "Have you forgotten the vendetta of our sect?" said the elder angrily. "You only know how to enjoy yourself without cultivating properly. Do you know that many of your fellow disciples are now suffering in the Disarray Star Sea?"


    "I know, I know," said the man immediately. He said in exasperation, "But that fiendish demon is a ninth firmament Skydemon. I''m only a second firmament Skyimmortal. The gap between us is just too huge. The heart is willing but the flesh is weak."


    "You have the nerve to say that? Your wings have hardened and your strength is not weaker than mine. You know I can''t teach you a lesson, so you decided to gallivant," said the elder in a rage. "I painstakingly taught you for three centuries, believing you to be a rare genius. I groomed you with full dedication, hoping you would be able to cultivate to the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, so that you can one day seek revenge and rescue your suffering fellow disciples. But what did you do?"


    "Master." The man''s expression sank as he said gloomily, "You have always been forcing me; I''ve long had enough of it. I came here to visit you today as a kind gesture, but here you are again, reprimanding me."


    "Forcing you?"


    The elder said furiously, "Three centuries of guidance was done by force? I''m not making you seek revenge now. I just do not want you to forget the vendetta. I want you to focus on cultivation, so that you can reach the ninth firmament Skyimmortal early. By reveling in enjoyment, there''s no hope for you to even reach the fourth firmament Skyimmortal realm! By doing so, you will never be able to rescue anyone. Do you know what kind of days your uncle-masters and grandmasters are experiencing? They are experiencing a living hell as slaves in the Disarray Star Sea."


    "Alright, that''s enough," said the man coldly. "If there comes a day I reach the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm, I''ll avenge and rescue them. As for now, I''ll be leaving first."


    With that said, the man left as a stream of light.


    The elder sneered when he saw this scene. "Hahah, Ximen Sha, you painstakingly taught him for three centuries, only to end up teaching an ingrate. You were truly blind. Blind!


    "Fine, I''ll find other disciples.


    "I''ll recruit new disciples.


    "Regardless, be it ten or a hundred thousand years, I, Ximen Sha, will one day kill that fiendish demon and rescue my senior brothers and junior brothers, as well as master and company.


    "Master, Senior Brothers, Junior Brothers¡­ I will not give up." The elder clenched his fist tightly as he left in the form of a wind.


    Qin Yun had seen all of this remotely.


    "Disarray Star Sea?" Qin Yun was somewhat surprised as he calculated with his fingers.


    "There are six powerful demons in the Disarray Star Sea. The one they are referring to is likely Cave Lord Venom Cloud." At Qin Yun''s realm, along with fact that the Seven Stars Great Dao was great at inference, he immediately learned of everything from an inference.


    In terms of inferring the heavenly secrets, even many perfected Great Dao existences were not Qin Yun''s match.


    It was very difficult to keep secrets from Qin Yun, an expert who was good at inferring the heavenly secrets.


    "I wouldn''t have known if I hadn''t done the inference. It''s truly staggering. This Cave Lord Venom Cloud is an ordinary ninth firmament Skydemon. She''s not famous in the Three Realms and keeps a rather low profile. However, her means are diabolical. She deserves death!" With a thought, Qin Yun made the decision to rid the world of this fiend.


    The Skyimmortal, Ximen Sha, who had been working hard for tens of thousands of years, did not know that his conversation with his disciple had caught Qin Yun''s attention.


    What he had always been dreaming of was about to happen.


    ¡­


    The Disarray Star Sea was in space.


    There were a large number of asteroids floating and revolving around a region, making the vast area like a maze. It was also why the area was called the Disarray Star Sea.


    Due to the rich Heaven Earth Essence Qi here, it attracted many experts to establish cave abodes here. For instance, Cave Lord Venom Cloud was one of the top three experts in the Disarray Star Sea. Ninth firmament Skydemons¡­ were typically a force to be reckoned with.


    "Oh?"


    Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s graceful figure slumped into her throne as she gently knitted her brows. She was feeling somewhat puzzled.


    "Why has the Disarray Star Sea''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi turned chaotic in the past few days?" She looked far into the distance. "The source of the disturbance seems to come from that direction. That is where the deepest depths of the Disarray Star Sea is. Even I would get lost if I entered. Should I take a look?"


    She was rather hesitant about the matter.


    And in the deepest depths of the Disarray Star Sea, there was a spheroid stone about ten feet wide inside a asteroid half a thousand kilometers wide.


    Crack. Crack.


    The spheroid stone gradually produced cracks on its surface.

 629 The Father and Son in The Stone Chamber

    Cave Lord Venom Cloud proceeded through the Disarray Star Sea alone. Her every step traversed tens of thousands of kilometers. Although she was hesitant, she decided to seek out the cause for the Disarray Star Sea''s Heaven Earth Essence Qi stir.


    It was also because she had discovered through karma that her old opponent, Demon King Motu, had already gone one step before her.


    "The Heaven Earth Essence Qi stir originates from deep in the Disarray Star Sea. It might be dangerous, but it could also be an opportunity." Venom Cloud had a look of anticipation in her eyes. "I just need to be careful."


    She did not know Major Void Transference.


    She took an hour just traveling before she arrived deep in the Disarray Star Sea.


    "Boom~" The surrounding void was warped, with swirls of distorted lustrous light. Asteroids could be faintly seen floating amid the warped void.


    "The disorientation zone deep in the Disarray Star Sea has expanded?" Venom Cloud stopped. In front of her was a large warped void.


    "Haha, Sister Venom Cloud, you are here too?" A black-robed elder with a cold expression laughed loudly.


    Venom Cloud saw the black-robed elder at a glance. She said, "Motu, how can I not come when you are here? What have you figured out?"


    "Didn''t you notice? The disorientation zone has expanded," said Motu. "It''s several times bigger than it used to be. Furthermore, it''s constantly expanding."


    Venom Cloud also noticed it.


    The warped void was slowly spreading outwards, causing the zone to expand.


    "With the speed at which it''s going, it will probably expand five thousand kilometers in two hours." Venom Cloud was alarmed. "Back then, it was due to the Disarray Star Sea''s mineral reserves that I built a cave abode here. I discovered that the core region of the Disarray Star Sea''s void was warped. It makes void teleportation impossible and only allows slow flight. Furthermore, it''s easy to get lost. But I always believed that this disorientation zone was formed naturally. I never expected it to have expanded so many times and that it''s still expanding. Even the Heaven Earth Essence Qi have turned violent.


    "What is going on deep inside the Disarray Star Sea?"


    Venom Cloud was increasingly puzzled.


    Something must have happened.


    "I''ll send an avatar in to take a look." With a thought, Venom Cloud immediately split out two avatars formed from Dharmic powers. They flew into the warped zone.


    She did not dare enter the disorientation zone with her true body.


    "Venom Cloud has come as well. I believe more immortals and fiendish demons will come too. I have to find the source of the stir. Perhaps, it''s a huge opportunity." After Motun shot a glance at Venom Cloud, he ignored her. He had also sent two avatars into the disorientation zone to probe, but they had been searching fruitlessly all day.


    ******


    Night.


    Qin Yun silently left his room and departed the Qilan Nation''s capital. He left the Changyu Great World and traversed the distant void, arriving in the Disarray Star Sea immediately.


    "Disarray Star Sea."


    Qin Yun stood in space as he looked at the Disarray Star Sea.


    The Disarray Star Sea was expansive, but a pinnacle mighty figure like Qin Yun could explore it in its entirety with a thought.


    "This Disarray Star Sea must have formed by the Heavenly realm fragment when God King Gonggong slammed into Mt. Buzhou. The ancient Heavenly realm fragment formed Great Worlds while many tiny fragments formed Small Worlds. But even smaller fragments¡­ were unable to form Small Worlds. Perhaps they became these asteroids of varying sizes." Qin Yun made a guess. "These countless asteroids then formed the Disarray Star Sea.


    "Strange, why is the Heaven Earth Essence Qi in the Disarray Star Sea so agitated?" Qin Yun looked deep into the Disarray Star Sea. "Deep in the Disarray Star Sea is a region of fifteen million kilometers. The void is warped and anyone who can''t match a mighty figure will be lost in it.


    "According to intelligence, the disorientation zone of the Disarray Star Sea spans just five million kilometers. Why has it increased to fifteen million kilometers?"


    Qin Yun was somewhat astonished.


    He carefully observed, but discovered that the depths of the Disarray Star Sea were shielded by an invisible energy that prevented him from seeing through it.


    "This is quite interesting.


    "It''s a little different from the intelligence. Furthermore, the Heaven Earth Essence Qi agitation stems from the deepest depths." Qin Yun''s interest was piqued. "Yes, I''ll venture in after saving those pitiful cultivators."


    Disorientation zone.


    It was very dangerous to many, but it was nothing for mighty figures.


    Even more so when Qin Yun''s strength was one that could fight a perfected Great Dao existence.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun took another step and arrived in Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s territory.


    He came to the Disarray Star Sea for two reasons¡ªto save the pitiful cultivators enslaved by Venom Cloud and to kill her.


    "Cave Lord Venom Cloud has headed for the Disarray Star Sea''s depths? She doesn''t know Major Void Transference, so she won''t be able to escape. I''ll rid of her later." Qin Yun was in no rush. He first landed on a massive asteroid. The asteroid spanned more than five hundred kilometers and had valuable minerals in it. Many enslaved cultivators were being used as miners.


    "This asteroid is just rock with no signs of life. Those cultivators live on this?" Qin Yun took a step and entered the asteroid''s interior.


    Inside the asteroid were numerous mining routes.


    There were also regions that had been fully excavated. They were made into stone chambers about ten feet wide. Cultivators stayed in there.


    "There are guards for every hundred cultivators?


    "Each cultivator lives in such a small space? There''s barely room for a bed." Qin Yun walked through the mine and looked at each stone chamber.


    Inside the stone chambers, cultivators were either lying down or sitting cross-legged. However, most of them looked sickly and had a stupefied aura.


    They had been enslaved for too long.


    "Enslaving cultivators sure is convenient. There''s no need to provide them with food or drink. They just need to be forced to mine." Qin Yun had a cold look in his eyes. "As a demon, she has enslaved so many human cultivators. The Heavenly Dao sure is heartless. Acting wantonly against mortals would imply grave sins, but to enslave cultivators, the sins involved would be much lessened."


    Dozens of cultivators returned from their mining as they flew in a numbed fashion before entering their respective stone chambers.


    In one of the stone chambers.


    "Dad!" A three or four-year-old child received a cultivator who entered happily.


    The cultivator looked like a middle-aged man. His face was filled with weariness, but when he saw the child, he smiled. "Qian''er."


    "Dad brought you good food to eat." The middle-aged man pulled out a bundle and opened it to reveal three dry and hard buns. He cast some Dharma spells and extracted water to infuse into the bun before raising its temperature. The bun turned soft and warm.


    "Buns!" The child received it in excitement. He chomped down on it and asked, "Where''s Mom? When will Mom be back?"


    "Probably soon," said the middle-aged man. Although he was exhausted, he was still filled with hope seeing his son.


    After his son was done eating, the middle-aged man instructed, "How has your practice of the saber arts I taught you been? Demonstrate for me."


    "Yes, Dad." The child immediately picked up a wooden saber and demonstrated, stirring up winds. After he was done, the child looked at his father in anticipation. "Dad, how was it?"


    "Here, follow me step by step." The middle-aged man began teaching in frustration.


    ¡­


    The cultivators in the neighboring stone chambers also heard their conversation.


    "Brother Wang and his wife are really just inviting trouble for themselves. As cultivators, they do not need food or drink, but to raise their son, they have to exchange for food every day. That means they have to excavate several times more! Cave Lord raised steep conditions to begin with and the couple has to do twice that. The couple nearly went mad from the hard work. I often see the two of them laying exhausted there motionless after having all their Dharmic powers drained."


    "In such days, why have children? If I had any say in it, they should not have had children."


    "They are just too stubborn."


    The other cultivators were also discussing, but soon stopped to rest.


    Work was just too tiring.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched the middle-aged man teach his son in the dark sealed stone chamber in front of him.


    Perpetual darkness.


    Without plants, it was a stone chamber forever plunged in darkness.


    Despite such days, the father and son both taught and learned very seriously.


    "There is hope even in perpetual darkness?" Qin Yun muttered to himself. He could see the looks of anticipation in the father''s eyes and in the ignorant child''s eyes. The child wished to see his father and his mother.


    Forever filled with hope.


    Forever hoping to see the sky.


    Even if they were considered contemptible or weak.


    Over the past three hundred years of touring the mortal world, he had experienced the strength among humans. And today, he sensed it again. The Human Spirit in his heart also grew stronger.


    "I am proud to be born human."


    "These humans who have never abandoned hope should see their hopes fulfilled."


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind.


    The entire ore mine quaked as the enslaved people were transported out by an invisible energy. The cultivators looked in amazement while the father who was still teaching his son saber arts hugged his son tightly, looking around at the distorted surroundings flying by at high speeds.

 630 Well Killed

    "What''s happening?"


    "Why are we flying? Is Cave Lord Venom Cloud making us dig up a new mine?" The cultivators had been enslaved for too long. They were powerless in front of Venom Cloud and could only allow her free rein over them. Even when they were being transported out, they believed that it was because of her.


    All of them were moved out in terror.


    Soon, they reached the asteroid''s surface.


    Thousands of cultivators were moved here, with very few mortals among them.


    Wang hugged his son and turned wary. As for his son, he saw a figure among the crowd. He shouted immediately, "Mom! Mom!"


    "Hush." The middle-aged man was uneasy, but he immediately moved towards his wife.


    "We were still mining when we were moved over," whispered his wife. "Do you know what happened? Why were we moved here?"


    "No idea." The man shook his head. He shot a glance into a distance at the guards who appeared to be in a daze. "Besides, it seems the guards aren''t sure what''s happening either."


    Just as the family of three were carefully observing their surroundings...


    Phew!


    A huge group of figures tore through the void. They were another bunch of horrified and unsettled cultivators.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The void trembled slightly as more figures appeared.


    "It''s the cultivators from the Frost Iron Ore Mine."


    "Master! My master was in the Refined Stone ore Mine. The cultivators there have been transported out as well."


    "Those are from the Smoky Copper Ore Mine."


    "The Frost Iron Ore Mine is sixty thousand kilometers away from us. How can thousands of cultivators undergo Void Transference? Besides, many cultivators from different mines are being brought here."


    "W-what sort of means are these!?"


    A few of the enslaved cultivators had reached the Skyimmortal realm. They turned agape at the feat. At least, from what they knew, even the most powerful Skyimmortals, or even half-step Golden Immortals and those that matched mighty figures¡­ were incapable of doing this. Perhaps only extremely powerful mighty figures who were adept in spatial aspects could do something so inconceivable.


    Cultivators from eight mines were transported over despite being scattered.


    They were all slaves of Cave Lord Venom Cloud!


    But this was the first time they were all gathered at once.


    "There are so many enslaved cultivators." Wang and his family were shocked seeing this scene. By the side, his wife could not help but say, "It seems like something major is about to happen."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s spatial attainments made whatever he did easy.


    He looked into the distant Changyu Great World. There were five top sects of the Numinous Treasure lineage. Qin Yun quickly selected the Red Sand Sect from among them.


    "Junior Brother Yuwen," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission. "I''m Qin Yun."


    The Red Sand Sect''s sect master, Yuwen Xiu, was a half-step Golden Immortal expert. He had extremely high standing in the Changyu Great World. When he heard the voice transmission in the sect, he nearly jumped in fright as he hurriedly replied, "Senior Brother Qin."


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun casually blasted open a stable spatial passageway that connected to the area above Red Sand Sect.


    On the other end, many disciples of the Red Sand Sect looked in horror at the spatial passageway. Only Sect Master Yuwen Xiu could see Qin Yun through the spatial passageway. He immediately flew through it and arrived at the Disarray Star Sea.


    "Greetings Senior Brother Qin." Dressed in a red robe, Yuwen Xiu was very respectful. Even though Green Touring Palace had numerous experts, Senior Brother Qin''s strength was only second to Eldest Senior Sister Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. The Dao Ancestor had even bestowed him with his Qingping Sword.


    "These are the poor cultivators who were enslaved by Cave Lord Venom Cloud." Qin Yun looked far into the distance at the tens of thousands of people on the asteroid''s surface. "Red Sand Sect is quite a force to be reckoned in the Changyu Great World, so I''ll be troubling you to help handle them. Those that need to return to their hometowns are to return and offer those that have nowhere a place to call their own."


    "Senior Brother, how kind of you," said Yuwen Xiu immediately. "I long knew that these cultivators were enslaved by Cave Lord Venom Cloud, but the demons are rather powerful in the Changyu dominion. I did not dare take rash action. Senior Brother, now that you have taken action, you have saved them from living hell."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Many demons were belligerent by nature. Many human experts were helpless towards that.


    Back when Qin Yun taught a demon a lesson, it even caused Nine Phoenix to appear! Of course, when he trounced her to near-death¡­ the demons did not dare say a word! And at present, the leader of the demons, Demon Emperor Bai Ze, was considered to have placid nature, an extremely rare trait among demons. His temperament was even better than that of many human cultivators, but there were too few demons that were like him. The belligerent ones were the majority and Bai Ze had no means to change the nature of the countless demons in the Three Realms. He could only restrain them as best as he could.


    "Then, I''ll leave them to you," said Qin Yun.


    "Senior Brother, rest assured," said Yuwen Xiu immediately. It was a great opportunity for him to make ties with Qin Yun, so he naturally had to do well.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly and with a sweep of his gaze, he flicked his sleeve.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Qin Yun had transported Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s subordinates in passing as well. As there were too few opportunities to do evil in the Stellar Sea, there were only seven with grievous sins. They were naturally killed by Qin Yun.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi¡­" The seven subordinates had their glabellas penetrated by Sword Qi before their bodies reduced to nothingness.


    "Ghost Worm Skydemon is dead."


    "That ape fiend is dead too."


    Many cultivators watched the situation play out in excitement.


    After casually killing the seven, Qin Yun took a step and tore through the void.


    "Senior Brother is really as the rumors say. He abhors evil." Yuwen Xiu watched this scene and could not help but sigh. "When Senior Brother, the best sword immortal of the Three Realms, takes action, even the demons can only bear with it."


    Yuwen Xiu cast his gaze towards the tens of thousands of cultivators and small number of mortals.


    The enslaved cultivators also looked up. They had seen a spatial passageway blast open and it remained stable until now. The red-robed Daoist had walked out of the spatial passageway and bowed towards another existence who left after saying a few words.


    "Everyone." Yuwen Xiu looked down on the tens of thousands of people, his voice resounding in everyone''s ears. "I''m Red Sand Sect''s sect master. My senior brother, Sword Immortal Qin, personally rescued you. From this moment forth, you have regained your freedom. I will first send you to the Changyu Great World. After which, you can head home or anywhere else. My Red Sand Sect will help you.


    "Now, follow this spatial passageway and head for the Changyu Great World," said Yuwen Xiu as powerful Dharmic powers emanated and enveloped the tens of thousands of people.


    Tens of thousands of people flew up in orderly fashion and began passing through the spatial passageway to fly into the Changyu Great World.


    "We are free?"


    "We regained our freedom?"


    "That''s Red Sand Sect''s sect master? The Red Sand Sect is a top sect in our Changyu Great World!"


    The cultivators were all excited.


    When they flew close to the spatial passageway, they saw the other end. It was filled with blue skies and white clouds. The scene was picturesque with lush vegetation.


    "I see it. I see mountains and rivers."


    "Changyu Great World, I actually got to see it again."


    "I, Mu Xiuyuan, can actually return home?"


    Many cultivators wept when they saw the scenery on the other end of the wormhole. During their days as slaves, they had never seen lush greenery. They felt their hearts brighten when they saw a world with color. Their worlds also turned alit from that moment!


    "Dad, Mom, is that the Changyu Great World? How beautiful." The Wang family carried their child among the crowd as they looked into the distance. The child was looking around, having never seen another world since he was born in the mines.


    "Yes, it''s very pretty. Our hometown is thousands of times prettier than the mine," said the woman. "Qian''er, I''ll take you to see grandfather when we are back."


    "Qian''er, your grandmaster and your uncle-masters will definitely adore you," said Wang. He and his wife were feeling excited.


    "Okay!"


    The child nodded immediately as he immediately said, "Was it Sword Immortal Qin who saved us? Who is Sword Immortal Qin?"


    "No idea. But since he''s Red Sand Sect sect master''s senior brother, he''s likely a mighty figure," said Wang. He remembered how reverent Red Sand Sect sect master acted in front of Sword Immortal Qin.


    "Mighty figure?" The child was somewhat confused. "He saved so many people and good people will be rewarded."


    The Wang couple could not help but laugh.


    Good people will be rewarded? Was this a comment on a mighty figure?


    "Yes, he will be rewarded." The couple did not say further. They carried their child, followed the crowd, and entered the spatial passageway, heading straight for the hometown they had dreamed of thousands of times.


    ¡­


    Cave Lord Venom Cloud stood in space as two of her avatars were exploring the disorientation zone.


    Suddenly, her expression changed.


    "What? Sword Immortal Qin rescued all my mining slaves? He even got Red Sand Sect sect master to send them back to the Changyu Great World?" Although Venom Cloud''s true body was here, she also left an avatar in her cave abode. She naturally received the news rapidly. Qin Yun had only killed seven of her subordinates, but there were many Skydemons left alive. They naturally reported it to her immediately.


    "Oh no."


    "Will he deal with me after rescuing those mining slaves?" She felt uneasy.


    Venom Cloud flipped her hand and held a token before activating it.


    It connected to a distant spot.


    It was a spot with a handsome man with white clothes fluttering.


    "Master," said Venom Cloud immediately. "That Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin rescued all my mining slaves. I have no idea if he will deal with me."


    "Sword Immortal Qin? Quickly¡ª" Following that, the handsome man saw something appear beside Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s side in horror.


    A person had appeared beside her.


    "Pfft!"


    A wisp of Sword Qi tore through Venom Cloud''s glabella as her beautiful face froze immediately. She then transformed into a massive spider corpse.


    Cave Lord Venom Cloud was dead!


    "Evil must be eradicated, so obviously I''d kill her." Qin Yun looked at the handsome man across the void.


    "Yes, yes. Well killed, well killed." The man immediately forced a smile. "It''s these fools that do not know how to hold back that spoil the reputation of us demons."

 631 The Treasure Deep in the Disarray Star Sea

    Qin Yun looked at the demon mighty figure. Although he abhorred evil, he was not one to kill wantonly. Was there a need to fear him that much?


    "The closer one is to death, the crazier they are. It''s best to avoid this Qin Yun as much as I can," thought the handsome man. "I wouldn''t be able to say anything if he kills me in his rage!"


    As a demon mighty figure, he had experienced the era when the ancient demons ruled the Heavenly Courts. He knew very well¡­


    That once upon a time, the fight between humans and demons produced rivers of blood.


    How did the demons lose power? How did the humans become ruler of the Three Realms? The new order was forged by slaughter! Even the three Daoist factions had conflicts, much less the conflicts between humans and demons. It was only temporarily abated with the rise of the fiends, causing them to ally as one. However, the grudge between humans and demons was constantly accumulating deep down. Demons ate and enslaved humans while human cultivators killed demons. It was all very common.


    Human mighty figures had even more animosity towards demons.


    Qin Yun was an Itinerant Immortal who only had a few thousand years left to live. Such people were usually extremely bloodthirsty. All he could do was speak in an obsequious manner.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun could not be bothered to say another word. He waved his hand and caused the void to restore to normal.


    Looking at Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s corpse before him, he flicked his sleeve, causing it to dissipate to nothingness. Only a few items were left behind.


    After storing away some of the items, Qin Yun looked ahead. It was the disorientation zone of the Disarray Star Sea. The void was warped in the disorientation zone as light traveled in distorted paths. The entire area turned blurry.


    "It seems there''s some power distorting the space here. Furthermore, it''s constantly expanding the region?" Qin Yun looked in curiosity. "There have long been records about the disorientation zone of the Disarray Star Sea, but in the past it was only a region that spanned five million kilometers. Why has it increased to fifteen kilometers? The accelerated expansion does seem odd."


    "Furthermore, there are two mighty figures probing the interior?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows. "One of them is a pinnacle Golden Immortal?"


    He took a stride


    Swoosh.


    He tore through space and entered the depths of the disorientation zone.


    ¡­


    Apart from Qin Yun, there were indeed two other mighty figures who had begun exploring the disorientation zone ahead of him.


    One of them was the mighty figure who reclused himself in the Changyu Great World, Jiao Yong. The other was a pinnacle mighty figure, Red Essence, of the Jade Void Palace lineage. He had rushed over because of a disciple''s report.


    Deep in the disorientation zone, the single-horned elder Jiao Yong was flying with a puzzled expression.


    "Strange."


    "It''s impossible for ordinary Skyimmortals and Skydemons to traverse this disorientation zone usually. But if one casts Major Void Transference, they can head anywhere inside the zone." The elder was baffled. "I have already attained my Dao fruit, and traversing dominions is nothing. Now that the disorientation zone has undergone massive changes, all I can do is slowly fly in the deepest five million kilometers range? Even my speed is much slower."


    As he flew, he approached the center.


    He finally saw a massive asteroid thousands of kilometers across. Standing on it was a purple-robed Daoist.


    "Jade Void Palace''s Red Essence?" Jiao Yong was alarmed.


    However, Red Essence was carefully studying the massive asteroid. He ignored Jiao Yong who was flying over.


    Jiao Yong also discovered that, although the void was highly warped, the void around the asteroid seemed fixed in place! It was very calm!


    "Whoosh."


    Another figure tore through space and arrived close to the massive asteroid.


    Jiao Yong saw the young man and his heart could not help but palpitate. "It''s Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin?"


    "Jade Void Palace''s Red Essence and a Green Touring Palace''s Sword Immortal Qin. This tiny Disarray Star Sea had attracted the two of them?" Jiao Yong worried. "No matter what treasure is hidden here, it definitely has become something beyond my reach."


    He had no intention to fight for it.


    Both figures were not to be provoked.


    The twelve Jade Void Golden Immortals had been famous throughout the Three Realms since a long time ago. Some of them had reached the perfected Great Dao realm. There was no need to mention Perfected Primordial Unity and Guangchengzi. Guan Yin, who had become a Buddhist, had spread the Dao across the world while ranking as one of the strongest in Buddhism. Guan Yin was also the only perfected Great Dao among all the Bodhisattvas.


    Apart from the three with a perfected Great Dao, the others had formidable means despite being just a step short.


    As for Qin Yun, he had been bestowed the Qingping Sword by the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. He nearly killed Sagedemon Nine Phoenix with a few blows and had the partial strength of a perfected Great Dao. Among the Green Touring Palace disciples, his strength was only second to Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. In terms of strength, he was likely stronger than Red Essence.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Red Essence finally looked up and smiled.


    "Fellow Daoist Red Essence," greeted Qin Yun politely as well.


    "My disciple told me that the depths of the Disarray Star Sea had turned odd. Out of curiosity, I came here to take a careful look. I never expected to bump into you, Sword Immortal Qin." Red Essence smiled rather in a friendly manner.


    Qin Yun said with a smile as well, "I discovered that a fiendish demon was doing evil, so I came to the Disarray Star Sea to get rid of her. I also noticed the changes in the Disarray Star Sea. Its expansion to fifteen million kilometers does leave me intrigued."


    The two of them had high standings in the Three Realms.


    Disarray Star Sea?


    It was trivial for two at their level. They had come out of curiosity and did not mind it much.


    There were too few treasures that could catch their eye.


    "This place is indeed fascinating." Red Essence looked around while stroking his beard. "The void outside is warped, but the space around the asteroid is frozen."


    "Yes, I can''t tear through the void to reach the asteroid directly." Qin Yun nodded. Following that, he flew and landed on the asteroid''s surface. "The void is extremely fixed in place with not so much as a stir."


    Red Essence nodded slightly. "However, the heavenly secrets are blurred. I have been exploring the surface for ten minutes, but I haven''t found an actual reason for this phenomenon.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun walked on the asteroid''s surface.


    It did not have any crevice and every step Qin Yun took traversed five hundred kilometers. He wandered about aimlessly and circled it a few times.


    "There''s nothing special indeed," said Qin Yun with a smile. "We might not be able to see anything special from the surface, but perhaps it''s inside."


    "I concur. I was hesitant about cracking open the asteroid," said Red Essence. "I was afraid that the asteroid is some treasure I can''t recognize and I might end up damaging it."


    "This asteroid looks very ordinary. It likely isn''t a treasure." Qin Yun shook his head.


    "Whatever then. Since Sword Immortal Qin believes it''s not a treasure, let''s crack it." Red Essence nodded.


    "Do you want to do the honors or do you wish to leave it to me?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, your Sword Dao is famous throughout the Three Realms. I think it''s best you crack open the asteroid." Red Essence appeared humble. He thought nothing of the treasure in the Disarray Star Sea and thought nothing of letting Qin Yun do the honors.


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile and did not decline.


    "Crack!"


    He immediately waved his hand.


    A blurry Sword Qi spanning five thousand kilometers formed as it cleaved down onto the asteroid.


    Whoosh!


    The asteroid was indeed no treasure. Under Qin Yun''s Sword Qi, it failed to put up any resistance. Like a knife slicing open an apple, the asteroid was directly halved by the Sword Qi, revealing the space within.


    In the empty hole in the middle, they could see a spheroid rock. The rock had many cracks of its surface and it emitted rich Chaos auras.


    The aura had been within the asteroid, so it was undetectable.


    Now that the asteroid was sliced open, Qin Yun and Red Essence were able to clearly sense the Chaos aura emitted by the spheroid rock. Its aura was dense and vast. It made their hearts quiver.


    "This aura? Could it have formed a Connate Cardinal treasure?" Red Essence could not help but be alarmed.


    Although he had many treasures, none of his treasures had such terrifying auras. It was still not revealed in its full glory; yet, its aura was already this astounding?


    "This aura has some similarities with the Qingping Sword." Qin Yun was alarmed as well. He was just passing by, but what he saw shocked him. "Could it be the birth of a new Connate Cardinal treasure?"


    "Hua!"


    Red Essence did not hesitate to produce a mirror with two sides. He immediately aimed it at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun felt the surrounding world distort as the space in front of him split into two. Half was whiteness, while the other half was blackness. The mirror-wielding Red Essence stood at the boundary of the black-and-white world. Qin Yun also did not hesitate to wave his hand, sending the Qingping Sword out from his sleeve.


    They had been acting politely until now, but the instant they saw the treasure, they attacked without a word.

 632 Cracking Open

    "Qingping Sword!"


    Upon seeing the Qingping Sword, Red Essence''s expression turned nasty. He waved his hand and threw out an ancient but simple black bell. It floated in midair, tinkling. Instantly, the white region of the black-and-white world began to boil over as immense white flames rose up. The black side appeared like stirring black waters.


    The white flames and black waters swirled as though they were about to devour Qin Yun.


    Clearly, Red Essence was forced to use all his strength.


    "I have cultivated arduously for so many years before figuring out the Water Fire Yin Yang Array. Even if he has the Qingping Sword, I believe I can fend him off," thought Red Essence.


    "I never expected you to figure out such an array after so many years of reclusive cultivation." Qin Yun laughed loudly. A wisp of misty rain flew out from his fingertip as it split into three. The three flying swords circled around, forming a world in and of itself. Regardless of the interspersing Yin and Yang or the engulfment of the water and fire¡­ it did not affect Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array at all.


    Back in his battle at Mt. Three Blades, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array was able to withstand Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body.


    Now that his cultivation had been consolidated after so many years, together with his fusion of the Seven Stars Great Dao, the might of the Misty Rain Array was even more powerful. Red Essence''s array could do nothing to it.


    Furthermore, the blurry drizzle emanated the surroundings.


    The Misty Rain domain seeped into the fire and water array and held back Red Essence.


    The spheroid rock was only a thousand plus kilometers away from Qin Yun and Red Essence.


    That distance was usually nothing worth mentioning to them under normal circumstances, but both parties were trying to obstruct each other.


    "Crack as I command!" Qin Yun''s eyes had a sharp glint.


    "Puah Puah Puah¡­"


    As he conjured the Misty Rain Array to protect himself, he attacked with the Qingping Sword using his full strength.


    Rifts were formed by sword flashes that appeared in midair.


    One strike, two strikes, three strikes¡­


    It formed the shape of the Big Dipper.


    It was Qin Yun''s strongest move to date, the Seven Stars Combo. After centuries of accumulation, the Seven Stars Combo was even more powerful. He didn''t use it in its entirely back when he dealt with Sagedemon Nine Phoenix, but he followed through to the seventh strike this time.


    Rip!


    When the final sword flash that made up the Big Dipper appeared, the entire water-and-fire, black-and-white world seemed to be sliced through like a piece of cloth. After the sword flash tore through the black-and-white world, it stopped right in front of Red Essence''s glabella.


    "It''s over." Red Essence immediately felt his heart palpitate as he did not dare move.


    The tip of the Qingping Sword was just an inch away from his glabella. It left his heart chilled.


    If Qin Yun had any greater intention to kill, all the sword tip would need to do was move a few inches forward to wipe out his Essence Soul. Then, he would be finished! Even if the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning was mighty and powerful, he would not be able to save him in time in such a pressing moment.


    "I''ve lost," said Red Essence softly. He no longer had any intention to vie for the rock.


    However, Qin Yun took a step forward and transformed into a stream of light that flew towards the spheroid rock.


    The three flying swords around him flew out and surrounded the spheroid rock as its protectors.


    "With the Misty Rain Array protecting it, even if Red Essence were to call for reinforcements, sending more experts from Jade Void Palace, they can forget about snatching it away." Only when Qin Yun had the spheroid rock fully encased in his Misty Rain Array did he heave a sigh of relief. He also pulled away the Qingping Sword at Red Essence''s glabella.


    Red Essence instantly felt relieved when the Qingping Sword flew away.


    Although he knew¡­ Qin Yun was unlikely to kill him while they vied for treasures, but having his glabella targeted still left his heart chilly.


    "I never expected my Water Fire Yin Yang Array that took me years to figure out would utterly fail to fend off your Qingping Sword." Red Essence shook his head gently. "If you wanted to kill me, you could have cracked my array in a blink of an eye and finished the deed."


    "Fellow Daoist Red Essence, your means are sufficiently powerful. Even if you were to fight Sagedemon Nine Phoenix, you would probably not be much weaker," said Qin Yun.


    "Didn''t she nearly die after a few strikes from you?" Red Essence shook his head. "An old man like me sure is useless. I''m being surpassed by juniors all the time."


    His junior, Yang Jian, was already stronger than him without using the Divine Eye of Destruction. After all, the Eight-Nine Arcane Art was basically invincible. There was no need to elaborate if he used the Divine Eye of Destruction.


    It was the same with Qin Yun!


    It was a trouncing!


    "Even if you did not use the Qingping Sword, you probably could have defeated me with your three flying swords, right? It''s true that the wave behind impels the wave before, until the wave before dies on the shore." Red Essence sighed.


    Qin Yun laughed when he heard that, but he thought to himself, "If I had not used the Qingping Sword¡­ I''d probably have needed a few seconds to take down Red Essence. Those few seconds might have resulted in unexpected twists, such as more experts from Jade Void Palace arriving. I did not dare take that bet! After all, it might very well be a Connate Cardinal treasure."


    While Qin Yun had this in mind, he looked at the spheroid rock with a burning gaze. The spheroid was slowly cracking, emitting Chaos auras.


    The aura was mysterious and shocking to the heart.


    Even the Heavenly Dao of the Three Realms was slowly receding away from it.


    The spheroid rock floated that like it was supreme. Even the Heavenly Dao avoided it.


    "What treasure would this rock give birth to when it cracks open?" Qin Yun stood in midair beside the rock while staring at it.


    The spheroid rock was about ten feet wide, and was not much bigger than a person.


    Now, the cracks covered the entire rock.


    It was as though the cracking speed was accelerating after the asteroid was cleaved apart by Qin Yun''s Sword Qi.


    "I came because I was intrigued with the report my disciple gave to me. I never expected my casual investigation would lead to such a treasure. I thought it was fated to be mine," said Red Essence. "but from the looks of it, it''s fated to be yours. I wonder what''s inside. Could it be a Connate Wonder or a Connate Cardinal treasure?"


    "We will know when it''s out." Qin Yun stared at it. "Even if it''s a Connate Wonder, it would probably be something impressive."


    Meanwhile, he was also concealing the heavenly secrets with his mystic arts to prevent spying from anyone.


    It was difficult to spy with the naked eye in the Three Realms.


    The heavenly secrets were blurred to begin with, and he was working hard to conceal himself further. Perhaps only the Dao Ancestors could spy on the situation.


    "Why are you concealing it? At least let me take a look," said Red Essence.


    "You''ll know when it''s out." Qin Yun continued concealing it.


    "Haha, this rock¡­ does remind me of something. There was once a huge rock in the Three Realms. A monkey jumped out when it cracked open," said Red Essence with a laugh.


    "Are you talking about that monkey?" Qin Yun was enlightened as he looked at the spheroid rock.


    This was a huge opportunity for himself.


    Please do not produce a monkey or something like that. That would be heart-wrenching for him.


    ¡­


    "Indeed, Sword Immortal Qin won the battle with Red Essence. Furthermore, he won really quickly." Jiao Yong, who was watching far away, saw the entire battle. "If Sword Immortal Qin wanted, he could have quickly slain Red Essence. And yet, Red Essence''s array formation sure is terrifying. I would be helpless against it."


    Few in the Three Realms noticed this battle.


    Firstly¡­ the battle happened in the cosmos. Mighty figures were just too far away.


    As for the battle between Qin Yun and Nine Phoenix, it happened in the Heavenly realm. It made all the mighty figures in the Heavenly realm sense it. As for the mighty figures outside the Heavenly realm, they only learned of it after being informed by their friends.


    The Changyu dominion''s Disarray Star Sea had warped space, attenuating the stirs from the battle completely. Furthermore, Qin Yun and Red Essence had the intention to vie for the treasure, so they naturally concealed the heavenly secrets to not stir anyone else. Few people in the Three Realms knew of their battle.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sealed the surroundings with the Misty Rain Array as he stared intently at the spheroid rock.


    As it was cracking at an accelerated pace, Qin Yun only waited for about an hour beside it.


    "Ka Ka Ka!"


    The entire spheroid rock finally produced a chain reaction. It continued cracking internally as it produced cracking sounds.


    Finally, the cracking sounds reached a crescendo.


    The entire rock shattered and revealed what was inside.


    "That is¡ª"


    Qin Yun''s eyes immediately widened. He was even somewhat shocked.

 633 Best Connate Wonder!

    The spheroid rock shattered completely and revealed a green-skinned lotus seed the size of a finger.


    Just the lotus seed alone contained endless vitality.


    Furthermore, it suffused unimaginable power that caused the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao to recede.


    "Lotus Seed, the Lotus Seed of Fate." Qin Yun was truly astounded.


    The green-skinned lotus seed was considered by all in the Three Realms as the best Connate Wonder in the universe! Qin Yun had only learned of this secret after he attained his Great Dao. He was able to read books in the ninth floor of the Green Touring Palace''s Myriad Dharma Repository, and through his reading, he came to learn of many precious treasures and thus, the Lotus Seed of Fate.


    Lotus Seed of Fate: The best Connate Wonder!


    There were only a few of them in the entire Three Realms!


    Although it was not a Connate Cardinal treasure, it was something even ancient existences including the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor would be willing to exchange for using a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    The reasons why it was so:


    Firstly, a Lotus Seed of Fate could be grown into a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    For instance, the Buddhist Ancestor had once grown a lotus seed into the Connate Cardinal treasure, Merit Gold Lotus! This was very suitable for Buddhism. It became a cornerstone treasure of Buddhism. Another example was how Patriarch Blood Sea obtained one Lotus Seed of Fate and planted it in his blood sea, growing out the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus. The true body of the blood sea together with the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus made a perfect combination. Patriarch Blood Sea would not even exchange it for a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    Only something suitable was the best.


    As for the Lotus Seed of Fate, it could grow into a Connate Cardinal treasure that would suit one the most, making it extremely rare.


    Secondly, the Lotus Seed of Fate had many other uses.


    For example, the Fiend Ancestor''s true body was a black lotus grown out of a seed according to gathered intelligence. This was why the Fiend Ancestor was extremely perceptive. It allowed him to attain the strength of a perfected Great Dao in the Chaos and later reach the Heavenly Dao realm through extended cultivation!


    As for the Fiend Ancestor''s strongest destruction body, and his Divine Eye of Destruction¡­ they were a result of him obtaining another lotus seed based on Green Touring Palace''s intelligence. He infused it into his body, transforming it into a Divine Eye of Destruction. The Divine Eye of Destruction was the Fiend Ancestor''s strongest attack and its might was stronger than the typical Connate Cardinal treasure.


    "It can manifest itself into a Connate Cardinal treasure, turn into life, fuse into one''s body. There are also other uses. It''s the best Connate Wonder, the Lotus Seed of Fate. In front of the best Connate Wonder, Qin Yun finally felt¡­ some specks of light in the fog-filled road up ahead.


    "The birth of the best Connate Wonder would definitely stir many."


    "Time to leave."


    Qin Yun extended his hand and grabbed the Lotus Seed of Fate.


    "Boom!"


    The moment Qin Yun grabbed it, he saw a figure emitting blinding golden light appear in the void far away. The figure was dressed in golden armor. The moment he appeared, he sealed the surrounding void completely. He cast his cold gaze over. "Qin Yun, such a treasure of fate is not something you can hold onto."


    A voice sounded in Qin Yun''s mind as the golden light illuminated him. It threatened him greatly.


    Compared to when he fought Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body at Mt. Three Blades, he had the enhanced Misty Rain Array protecting him. Still, he felt that it could be cracked open at any time.


    "It''s him, Rushou¡ªan ancient god who is on equal ranking as God King Zhurong, God King Gonggong, and Goddess Houtu?" Qin Yun immediately knew who it was.


    "It should be mine!"


    A cold voice reverberated everywhere, sounding in everyone''s hearts.


    It was a blob of yellow light.


    The blob of yellow light was streaming through the river of time and coming out from it, making it invisible to to the ordinary immortal''s or demon''s eye. Only by probing the river of time would one notice his figure.


    "Hahaha¡­ Seven old friends have arrived in an instant?"


    Following by a resounding laughter in the void, an extremely massive divine dragon appeared. His body was massive and his winding dragon body emitted endless power. His eyes were cast at Qin Yun.


    "Swoosh!"


    Bathed in five different colors of light, a white-dressed man appeared as well.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun held his breath.


    He long knew that the aura released by the Lotus Seed of Fate could even pierce through the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao. Similarly, he could not totally conceal it.


    He never expected so many ancient existences to appear at once. All of them were perfected Great Dao existences, and there were even three whom Qin Yun did not recognize!


    "Eight appeared in an instant. If this drags out, perhaps more will appear." Qin Yun instantly felt how much of a hot potato the Lotus Seed of Fate was. However, it was chance that led him to the Disarray Star Sea and his suppression of Red Essence that allowed him to obtain the Lotus Seed of Fate! How could he easily give it up? It could be said that¡­


    Without the Lotus Seed of Fate, Qin Yun''s chances of transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations were barely ten percent.


    But with the Lotus Seed of Fate, there was a thirty percent chance! It was tripled!


    The aid it could give to him would be immense; therefore, Qin Yun naturally wanted to protect it.


    "Boom!"


    A more terrifying figure appeared.


    The body was extremely massive. The surrounding asteroids that were thousands of kilometers in size were not even the size of his fingernail. He had green skin and a simple fur coat was draped over him. He appeared out of the void barefeet. He had four arms which looked like four heavenly columns. The third eye at his glabella was closed, but it left all the surrounding ancient existences alarmed.


    "Fiend Ancestor."


    "The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body!"


    "The Fiend Ancestor has always yearned for the Lotus Seed of Fate. The moment he sensed it, his destruction body rushed here."


    "The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor can remain a little composed when it comes to the Lotus Seed of Fate. At most, they would exchange blows remotely. But the Fiend Ancestor doesn''t care for his reputation at all. He rushed here with his destruction body instantly."


    These ancient existences were bitter inside.


    In the cosmos, a Heavenly Dao existence could fully release their strength. It was not something they could withstand. It was why many ancient existences were willing to lie in dormancy while the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor were in the Three Realms.


    When the towering Fiend Ancestor destruction body appeared, the other existences felt apprehensive.


    "It''s mine." The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body did not hesitate. He extended his hand and grabbed at Qin Yun with a palm larger than a star.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Four divine swords flew from the depths of space. Each sword was as tall as a mountain. The moment they appeared in the cosmos, they floated towards Qin Yun and held down the surrounding cosmos for thousands of kilometers.


    Furthermore, a massive array chart appeared beneath his feet.


    His feet stepped onto the array chart.


    The four divine swords floated around him.


    Endless killing intent enveloped thousands of kilometers.


    The extremely domineering Fiend Ancestor destruction body could not help but halt when he stepped out of the void. The other ancient existences were even more horrified. There were also other existences who were hesitant about coming who no longer dared take action.


    "Immortal Vanquishing Array."


    "It''s the Immortal Vanquishing Array. The Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor has taken action personally."


    Everyone turned apprehensive.


    The Immortal Vanquishing Array was the undisputed number one killing array in the Three Realms! At the Heavenly Dao realm, it was the strongest killing array.


    It was said that the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was powerful, but against the Immortal Vanquishing Array, it would be asking for trouble. As for other perfected Great Dao existences? If they dared step into the Immortal Vanquishing Array, they were destined to be obliterated and be left with nothing.


    "Master." Qin Yun shouted with a look of delight.


    "My dear disciple, with me around, no one can snatch what belongs to you." The clear voice reverberated through the Immortal Vanquishing Array.

 634 Where the Lotus Seeds Are

    The ancient existences all believed that they had a sliver of hope by relying on their various means, allowing them to luck out during the conflict. However, all of those hopes were dashed when they saw the Immortal Vanquishing Array! The Immortal Vanquishing Array was more threatening than the Fiend Ancestor.


    The Fiend Ancestor was bent on taking the Lotus Seed of Fate from Qin Yun''s hand. "Ever since the Three Realms was born, only Zhurong possessed that Lotus Seed of Fate after all these years. I paid such a tremendous price before obtaining it. Yet, this Qin Yun was just traveling the Three Realms at random and he easily received one? This Lotus Seed of Fate should be mine. His Qingping Sword should also belong to me."


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body had struck out with his palm previously, but the moment the Immortal Vanquishing Array appeared¡ª


    All he could do was retract his palm.


    "None of you are leaving. Do you still have plans of continuing?" A black-haired elder appeared in the middle of the Immortal Vanquishing Array, beside Qin Yun. It was the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s real body.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun and gave a terse response, but he looked extremely pleased. He said with a smile, "As I long said, having done so much, you have immense merit and the light from providence shines on you. As long as you wander around frequently, you might bump into a huge opportunity. See? Was I right?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    That was really the case.


    He had obtained the Lotus Seed of Fate very easily. All he did was listen to a quarrel between a master and disciple and learned of Cave Lord Venom Cloud''s enslavement of a large ground of cultivators. With a thought, he traveled to the Disarray Star Sea to rescue the cultivators and kill Cave Lord Venom Cloud. He was mildly intrigued by the Disarray Star Sea''s change that he came to take a cursory look, only to discover the spheroid rock.


    The only obstruction was Red Essence, who was not really a significant obstruction. After all, he obtained it instantly.


    He had easily obtained the best Connate Wonder in existence and Qin Yun felt that everything was like a dream to have something so rare fall into his lap.


    His master had made him travel more frequently. With huge merit and the light from providence, it was easy to bump into opportunities.


    That was really true!


    For him to bump into such a huge opportunity and obtain the Lotus Seed of Fate, it could only be explained by having huge merit and the light from providence. Qin Yun knew very well that before a Lotus Seed of Fate appeared in the universe, its hidden location¡­ was something no expert in the Three Realms could find. However, the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao knew of it and it was most fair. As the saying goes, the Heavenly Dao pays its debts. Qin Yun had done so much; therefore, it had rewarded Qin Yun with such a huge opportunity.


    Even the change in the Disarray Star Sea happened only after Qin Yun arrived in the Changyu Great World. It was indeed very coincidental.


    "Due to the karmic process and how the Heavenly Dao pays its debts, it has given me such a huge opportunity because of all that I''ve done?" thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Many ideas came to Qin Yun because of a single sentence from his master.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure swept his gaze coldly around as he continued, "Do not blame me for being a bully. I''ll announce ahead of time that anyone who dares extend their hand will be killed!"


    He had said that calmly, but the threat was real. Anyone who dared snatch the treasure would die!


    For Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure to say it personally, it was evident that he had every intention to kill!


    "Let''s go!"


    "Even the Fiend Ancestor and the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure have interfered. It''s impossible for us to obtain the treasure."


    "This isn''t something the likes of us can partake in anyway."


    All their hopes were gone the moment the Immortal Vanquishing Array appeared. The ancient existences began to rapidly depart.


    Red Essence and the shuddering Jiao Yong took the opportunity to leave together. If the Fiend Ancestor really fought the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure, perhaps any remnant blast would finish them.


    "Numinous Treasure." The Fiend Ancestor was indignant as he roared angrily, "How long have you been in the Heavenly Dao realm? What can this Lotus Seed of Fate do to help you in any way? Must you spoil my plans time and time again?"


    "Black Lotus, your body is that of a black lotus. This Lotus Seed of Fate is of huge benefit to you. But the more it is so, the more we need to stop you," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a scoff. "To be honest, I yearn for you to be completely obliterated as soon as possible."


    "Can all of you kill me? If the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss isn''t destroyed, I''ll remain eternal," said the Fiend Ancestor with an angry laugh.


    "Isn''t your eagerness to become stronger because you are afraid of the future? It will not be long before you and I have to leave the Three Realms. When the time comes, you will no longer be the lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "Without the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss as your crutch, our collective efforts against you will make taking you down easy."


    Qin Yun was alarmed when he heard that.


    Master, the Fiend Ancestor, and the rest were leaving the Three Realms?


    The Fiend Ancestor would no longer be the lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss?


    "Taking me down would be easy?" The Fiend Ancestor''s eyes were filled with maniacal rage. "What bold words, but all of you will lack the strength!"


    "Don''t be in a hurry. When the day comes for us to leave the Three Realms, we shall see if that''s true." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure was extremely composed.


    In terms of cultivation experience, Goddess N¨¹wa was the first to attain the Heavenly Dao realm. The Daoist Three Pure Ones and Buddhist Ancestor, Gautama, had attained the Heavenly Dao realm early on. As for the Fiend Ancestor, he was the latest. He lacked the necessary development in a relative manner.


    "Fine. We shall wait and see." After the Fiend Ancestor said that, he glared coldly at Qin Yun before turning to leave.


    "To think the likes of you had thoughts of snatching something that my disciple holds?" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure scoffed.


    The moment his Immortal Vanquishing Array was unleashed, the Fiend Ancestor had no choice but to give up despite his unwillingness. Even two or three Heavenly Dao realm figures would not be confident of jointly cracking the Immortal Vanquishing Array, much less him alone. Therefore, the Fiend Ancestor had no choice but to leave without a fuss.


    "Let''s go. Follow me back to Green Touring Palace." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun.


    "Yes, Master," answered Qin Yun.


    When the two vanished from the Disarray Star Sea, the disorientation zone no longer had the warped void. Everything returned to a calm.


    Typical Skyimmortals and Skydemons did not know of the conflict that happened deep in the Disarray Star Sea. They had no idea that many ancient existences had appeared, with two Heavenly Dao realm existences appearing as well. And all of that was for the best Connate Wonder in the universe.


    ******


    Green Touring Palace, main hall.


    "Hahaha¡­ The Heavenly Dao pays its debts. I have always been thinking that your storming of the twenty-six dominions was equivalent to nearly half of the Three Realms. You caused countless Small Worlds to escape the control of the fiends in all those dominions. Such huge merit should be met with huge opportunities!" The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sat on a bed of clouds and said beaming. "Although you obtained the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone previously, it was already in your homeworld and the fiends had repeatedly invaded it. You earned your huge merit after that happened, so your final finding of the Stellar Stone was because you were bent on resolving the root problem of your homeworld. You chose not to have a breakthrough in your Dharmic powers and chose to stay in a Small World. It was only right that you received the thousand-foot-long Stellar Stone.


    "I always believed that you would obtain a huge opportunity by traveling the Three Realms." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure smiled. "Yet, I never expected you to obtain this Lotus Seed of Fate."


    "Master, how should I use this Lotus Seed of Fate?" inquired Qin Yun.


    Just the name alone sounded impressive.


    But Qin Yun was quite flabbergasted. How was he to use it? How should he use it to provide him with the greatest help?


    "There are many ways to use a Lotus Seed of Fate," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "There are a total of nine. The first was produced during the period of Chaos. It turned into Black Lotus, the present Fiend Ancestor."


    Qin Yun listened carefully. He had read something related to that before.


    Who would have imagined that the Fiend Ancestor stemmed from a lotus seed?


    "There have been quite a few Lotus Seeds of Fate that have appeared," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "The ones that have turned into life are the Fiend Ancestor and that monkey from Flowers and Fruit Mountain. That is why the Fiend Ancestor always wishes to refine that monkey. He even sneaked up on him once some time ago. Thankfully, Gautama was prepared."


    Qin Yun was alarmed.


    Oh?


    That monkey had such a staggering background? It was no wonder the Buddhists thought so highly of him.


    "The Lotus Seed of Fate can be fused into one''s body, turning it into a part of a person''s body. The Divine Eye of Destruction on Black Lotus''s and Yang Jian''s glabellas were formed from the Lotus Seed of Fate. The might produced by those eyes is stupendous, far stronger than even some Connate Cardinal treasures. However, there is a disadvantage. Unless one is a at the perfected Great Dao realm, it is impossible to fully control the power of the Lotus Seed of Fate," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "The last time Patriarch Blood Sea tried so hard to kill Yang Jian was for his Divine Eye of Destruction. But you spoiled his plans! Therefore, the Fiend Ancestor hates you to the bone. Now, another Lotus Seed of Fate is in your hands."


    Qin Yun nodded. However, he had long offended the Fiend Ancestor.


    "The Buddhists'' Merit Gold Lotus and Patriarch Blood Sea''s Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus were also a result of the Lotus Seed of Fate.


    "God King Zhurong once had a Lotus Seed of Fate, but we have previously inferred some time ago that it has landed in Black Lotus''s hands.


    "Speaking of which, eight of the nine Lotus Seeds of Fate have appeared," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "There is still one that is hiding somewhere in the Three Realms. It''s unknown when it will appear.


    "Let''s not talk about this any further. The point is that it is indeed rare for you to obtain this Lotus Seed of Fate," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a smile. "As for how it should be used, I believe¡­ you can use it to nurture your Intrinsic Flying Sword."

 635 Nurturing the Intrinsic Flying Sword Final Chapter of Volume

    "If you have already reached the perfected Great Dao realm, as long as you refine ordinary Connate Wonders, you will be able to push your Intrinsic Flying Sword to the Connate Cardinal treasure level," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "That way, it would be suitable for you to fuse the lotus seed into your body, or use it to manifest a second Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure that would be suited for yourself.


    "Having the Intrinsic Flying Sword and another Connate Cardinal treasure of similar strength would naturally be the best of both worlds.


    "However, you have yet to break through and are only a pinnacle mighty figure."


    Numinous Treasure continued, "Refining ordinary Connate Wonders will not allow your Intrinsic Connate Numinous treasure to break through either."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I understand."


    "Your situation is very unique. Therefore, using the lotus seed to directly nurture your Intrinsic Flying Sword is what suits you the best," said Numinous Treasure. "Firstly, using the Lotus Seed of Fate to nurture the Intrinsic Flying Sword will allow it to naturally transform and be enhanced into an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. This flying sword will also be helpful to your cultivation, allowing you to break through earlier. Secondly, what''s most critical for you is to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. You rely on your protective sword array! The Lotus Seed of Fate will only make your Intrinsic Flying Sword stronger, giving it greater potential.


    "Be it for cultivation or for transcending the tribulations, enhancing your Intrinsic Flying Sword greatly is what''s most suitable," Numinous Treasure said with a smile. "Speaking of which, no one has produced an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms to date! You will probably be the first."


    Qin Yun smiled faintly.


    Indeed.


    Those ancient existences were born from the Chaos. They were born beside numinous treasures! Some of their birth numinous treasures were even Connate Cardinal treasures.


    However, the Dharmic formulations for creating an Intrinsic Dharma treasure were only made after the Daoist''s Three Pure Ones attained the Heavenly Dao realm. Furthermore, only a very small number of lineages had such means. For example, the sword immortals and Daoist talisman amulet lineages. There were still no juniors from these brand new lineages who attained a perfected Great Dao for the time being; therefore, there was no appearance of an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure.


    Qin Yun could only do it ahead of time thanks to the wondrous nature of the Lotus Seed of Fate.


    Lotus Seed of Fate¡­


    The best Connate Wonder! With its power over fate, it could make the impossible possible!


    Ignoring Qin Yun''s possession of a Intrinsic Flying Sword, even without it, the seed alone could transform into a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    "Master, is the nurturing Dharmic formulation for this the same as ordinary Connate Wonders?" asked Qin Yun.


    "The Dharmic formulations are all the same," said Numinous Treasure. "Cultivate inside Green Touring Palace. There are many people in the Three Realms that covet the Lotus Seed of Fate. Not only has the Fiend Ancestor set his sights on it, there are those lurking bunch of perfected Great Dao existences, some of who don''t even have a Connate Cardinal treasure! The Lotus Seed of Fate which can transform into a Connate Cardinal treasure which suits them the best would be enough to drive them crazy. If you were to cultivate outside, you are bound to be targeted, causing trouble. In Green Touring Palace, they won''t even be able to see you! Much less use their other means."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "I understand. I shall take my leave then."


    "Go on." Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun with eyes filled with anticipation.


    Qin Yun left with his body bowed.


    After watching Qin Yun leave, Numinous Treasure said softly in the empty hall, "To use a Lotus Seed of Fate to nurture an Intrinsic Flying Sword, he is the first and possibly the only one capable of doing so in the Three Realms."


    There were only a total of nine Lotus Seeds of Fate, with only one yet to reveal itself.


    The remaining seed¡­ was likely not to be used so extravagantly as to nurture a flying sword.


    This choice was made only because Qin Yun was in a desperate need to break through so as to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    "I hope this disciple of mine can transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. As such, after I leave the Three Realms, my Green Touring Palace will have another pillar of support."


    Numinous Treasure looked forward to it. Although Green Touring Palace currently had the the Eldest Senior Sister, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, her strength was only considered average among all the perfected Great Dao existences.


    Compared to the Ancestral Dragon, Mighty God Hou Yi, or even the Buddhist Amita¡­


    She was still a distance away.


    Now, the Green Touring Palace was considered one of the strongest few factions in the Three Realms. Just Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain alone was unable to maintain the Green Touring Palace''s present standing.


    The greatest hope which Numinous Treasure could see at present was his disciple, Qin Yun. His talent was excellent and was already closing in on the perfected Great Dao. Furthermore, he was a sword immortal. The only trouble was his Itinerant Immortal tribulations. Numinous Treasure was helpless regarding this, since the Itinerant Immortal tribulations was still an unsolved problem in all of the Three Realms.


    ******


    Green Touring Palace. In the chamber of Qin Yun''s tiny compound.


    An aroma lingered in the chamber. Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged on a mat, first leisurely consumed a drop of Samsara Dew.


    "It''s time."


    Sensing that he was in optimum state, Qin Yun waved his hand. A green lotus seed filled with boundless vitality flew out and floated in front of him.


    Just the lotus seed''s aura was enough to cause the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao to recede.


    "It is truly fate that I could obtain this treasure." Qin Yun looked at the green lotus seed. "It''s identical to using an ordinary Connate Wonder?"


    With a gentle wave of his hand, a wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip. It was none other than his Intrinsic Flying Sword, the Misty Rain Sword. The Misty Rain Sword stopped above the lotus seed as Qin Yun circulated his Dharmic powers and began following the Dharmic formulation.


    He saw a black-and-white chart surface over the Misty Rain Sword as it enveloped the lotus seed beneath.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    He saw countless points of green light, all filled with endless vitality. They kept flying out and surging into the Misty Rain Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword vibrated slightly in joy as it crazily devoured the points of green light. It devoured every bit that came at it.


    ¡­


    "That Lotus Seed of Fate should have been mine."


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the green-skinned Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body had eyes filled with rage.


    He felt his heart ache for missing out on a Lotus Seed of Fate.


    "Back then, the Lotus of Fate had a total of nine seeds. Now, only one of them has yet to appear," said the Fiend Ancestor in a deep voice. "It might not even appear by the time I''m forced to leave the Three Realms.


    "I missed such a great opportunity just like that.


    "That Qin Yun has spoiled my plans time and time again. He saved Yang Jian the last time and he snatched the Lotus Seed of Fate this time." The Fiend Ancestor was extremely indignant. "There will definitely be an opportunity. As long as I seize that opportunity, the Lotus Seed of Fate will fall back into my hands. Even his Qingping Sword will be mine.


    "I need to become stronger.


    "When the time comes to leave the Three Realms, it will be a huge calamity for me." The Fiend Ancestor knew this very well. As he had stopped at nothing, he had intervened whenever any Daoist, Buddhist, or Heavenly Courts mighty figures perished and went to Samsara. He destroyed their souls, leaving only the last wisp of True Spirit which made it impossible to receive them and awaken their memories.


    Once dead, they were considered gone.


    Many of them were disciples or juniors of the Dao Ancestors or Buddhist Ancestor, so how could they not be enraged?


    In addition, he had invaded the entire Three Realms, so the Fiend Ancestor was already the cause of great outrage. It made many factions unite to deal with him. It was only in the Three Realms that his Tenebrous Fiend Abyss was one with him, preventing him from suffering a true death.


    "Opportunity, there will definitely be one." The Fiend Ancestor waited in silence. Qin Yun had the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure protecting him, so he had to wait for the appropriate opportunity.


    ¡­


    "It''s a wonder how that Qin Yun will use the Lotus Seed of Fate."


    The Ancestral Dragon''s massive body coiled as his eyes had a look of curiosity and helplessness.


    Without the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure or Fiend Ancestor taking action, he was the one with the highest chances of obtaining the Lotus Seed of Fate in the Disarray Star Sea. However, once the Immortal Vanquishing Array appeared, all he could do was retreat.


    ¡­


    "Lotus Seed of Fate."


    Numerous ancient existences could not help but recollect the situation.


    How heart-wrenching.


    Envy and jealousy!


    But what could they do? Qin Yun had amassed huge merit and had immense light from providence shining down on him. He could obtain a Lotus Seed of Fate just by traveling the Three Realms. Furthermore, he had the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure protecting him. With such a solid backer appearing, they could do nothing.


    ******


    Green Touring Palace. In the chamber of Qin Yun''s tiny compound.


    Qin Yun was very astonished.


    The Lotus Seed of Fate created some differences during the refinement process than ordinary Connate Wonders. The difference being¡­ the Lotus Seed of Fate''s powers constantly fused with the Intrinsic Flying Sword without stopping for a moment! The Intrinsic Flying Sword also did not seem to be satiated or need time to ''digest.'' It was as though it could devour as many points of green light as came at it.


    This voracious dining continued for three years and three months.


    Only in the final month did the green lotus seed dim gradually. Finally, the lotus seed dissipated into the nothingness.


    "Everything has been absorbed." Qin Yun looked at the floating Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    At the instant it finished the absorption, the Intrinsic Flying Sword contained all the powers of an entire Lotus Seed of Fate. It also began to slowly transform.


    Like grass emerging out of the soil, it slowly grew.


    It was like a tree''s sprouting.


    Although everything was slow, it was the birth of brand new power.


    "My Intrinsic Flying Sword¡­" Qin Yun looked at the Misty Rain Sword before him. Its exterior was slowly changing, turning more misty and ethereal. It was as though it was a massive world itself. The three Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man was also a foundation within, perfectly fusing as one. Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was already short of the final step to the perfected Great Dao.


    The Lotus Seed of Fate easily bridged that final gap. It allowed the Misty Rain Sword to silently join the ranks of Connate Cardinal treasures.


    Furthermore, it was continuing to transform. This continued for more than two hours and only when all the Lotus Seed of Fate''s powers were fully expended did the Misty Rain Sword''s transformation come to a completion.


    The first Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms was floating right in front of Qin Yun.


    (End of Volume)

 636 Greed

    "Misty Rain Sword." Qin Yun looked at the flying sword floating before his very eyes.


    The sword''s body was covered in mist as it floated there. The sword seemed to contain a vast world in and of itself.


    Qin Yun could sense that¡­


    Deep inside the Misty Rain Sword, the three Heaven, Earth, and Man Great Dao were beginning to evolve, evolving into other Great Dao. There were even gradual hints of the Limitless Great Dao, Life Great Dao and Yin Yang Great Dao. However, their appearance was only insignificant at the moment.


    "The Lotus Seed of Fate is indeed miraculous. Not only has it easily made up for my original three aspects of my Sword Dao, it has even begun to demonstrate ''Three begets all things.'' It''s slowly evolving into the Dao of all manifestations. My flying sword is already capable of evolving the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth.


    "That way, it will exceed a Connate Cardinal treasure, reaching an even higher realm." Qin Yun reflected on it.


    Connate Cardinal treasures were the strongest treasures. Just one contained a complete perfected Great Dao!


    As for whether there were treasures at the higher Heavenly Dao realm? There were none to date. The experts of the Three Realms had suspected that Pangu''s Heaven Opening Ax he used to split the heaven and earth might have reached the Heavenly Dao realm, but that was only a guess. After all, both Pangu and the Heaven Opening Ax had been sacrificed along with the birth of the Three Realms.


    An analogy would be¡­


    The twenty-four Sea Calming Beads. Although they had transformed into the twenty-four heavens, the Sea Calming Beads had dissipated into nothingness.


    The Three Realms was a lot more powerful than the twenty-four heavens. To open up such a universe required an unimaginable price.


    After Qin Yun gazed upon his transformed Misty Rain Sword, he had a guess that if he had a few more Lotus Seeds of Fate, perhaps he could really enhance his flying sword to an even higher realm. Unfortunately, only one Lotus Seed of Fate had yet to appear in the Three Realms. Qin Yun did not dare pin any hopes on obtaining the final seed. The fact that he even got the one was thanks to the light from providence that shone on him. To get two? It was no longer luck, but strength!


    "The Misty Rain Sword is done.


    "It contains the three Great Dao within! It has also evolved portions of the Limitless, Life, and Yin Yang Great Dao. It can also be considered as guiding me towards the study of the Heavenly Dao realm." Qin Yun laughed as he extended his hand to grab the three-inch flying sword in his palm. "But what''s most pressing for me now is to first have a breakthrough in my Sword Dao."


    His flying sword had broken through, but it was not so simple for himself.


    "I''m just short of a sliver." Qin Yun looked at the flying sword in his palm. He carefully took it in. With the complete Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man before his eyes, it made Qin Yun''s insights churn like they would spew out at any time.


    Clearly, the flying sword''s guidance pushed Qin Yun closer to his breakthrough.


    This was also one of the reasons why his master had instructed him to use the Lotus Seed of Fate to nurture his flying sword.


    ******


    After the breakthrough in his flying sword, Qin Yun also temporarily returned to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Brother Yun, aren''t you traveling the world to gain insights into the Great Dao of Man? Since you''re back, does that mean you figured it out?" Yi Xiao was pleasantly surprised to see Qin Yun''s return.


    "How could it be that simple?" Qin Yun sat down and drank some flower tea his wife brewed herself. "I''ll be staying at home for a longer period of time."


    Yi Xiao was puzzled. "You mentioned that the human world, in the secular world is where you can find the Great Dao of Man. Isn''t figuring out the Great Dao of Man the most pressing issue for you so as to attain a perfected Great Dao? Why are you entering seclusive cultivation at home?"


    "Look."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand as a three-inch Misty Rain Sword floated in his palm.


    Yi Xiao looked at the blurry Misty Rain Sword and was alarmed. She could not help but say, "I don''t understand it, but I can sense that the Misty Rain Sword is different from the last time I saw it. Even its appearance has changed."


    "Inside the flying sword is a completed perfected Great Dao," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It''s the Sword Dao of the Heaven, Earth, and Man. Therefore, the Great Dao I''m pursuing¡­ is in the human and secular world, but it''s also in my flying sword. There''s no need for me to be out for now. I can seclude myself at home to study the flying sword. Perhaps a few days would be enough for me to figure it out."


    "A completed perfected Great Dao? Didn''t you say that only Connate Cardinal treasures have a completed perfected Great Dao in them?" Yi Xiao quickly realized what was happening as she felt disbelief. "Has the Misty Rain Sword turned into a Connate Cardinal treasure?"


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Yi Xiao said incredulously, "An Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. T-this¡­ Brother Yun, didn''t you say that one has to attain a perfected Great Dao first? With one''s own Great Dao as foundation, only then can one seek out numerous precious Connate Wonders to have hopes of nurturing a Connate Cardinal treasure? Why has it happened ahead of time?"


    "I received a huge opportunity." Qin Yun recounted what had happened to his wife. Only then did Yi Xiao know what a major incident had happened in the past three plus years.


    Back when Qin Yun obtained the Lotus Seed of Fate, ancient existences, including the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body and the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, took action¡­ However, the level at which the actors were at was just too high. The news became a secret. Even many ordinary mighty figures did not know of the matter. Likewise for Yi Xiao.


    ¡­


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body looked far into the Heavenly realm.


    "This Qin Yun has returned to Mt. Lightning Roar." The Fiend Ancestor carefully observed. "He sure is good at concealing the heavenly secrets. However, he can''t stop me. Let me take a look to see if he''s carrying the Lotus Seed of Fate with him."


    "Oh?"


    He carefully observed and inferred.


    Although Qin Yun was good at concealing the heavenly secrets and the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was capable of blurring out the heavenly secrets, so as to prevent others from probing it, the Fiend Ancestor was ultimately a Heavenly Dao realm existence. He figured it out after a moment of inference.


    "He actually used the Lotus Seed of Fate to nurture his flying sword?" The Fiend Ancestor was enraged. "He actually made his flying sword turn into a Connate Cardinal treasure. In that case, even if I obtain his flying sword, it will take me much effort to refine it for myself."


    Absorbing a lotus seed was naturally much easier.


    But it would be troublesome refining a Connate Cardinal treasure flying sword.


    "Whatever, I can bear with that bit of effort. At the very least, Numinous Treasure did not snatch the Lotus Seed of Fate from his disciple." The Fiend Ancestor was still rather happy. If the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had taken the Lotus Seed of Fate for himself, there was no chance of him obtaining it. But if it was in Qin Yun''s hand? There was still chance against an Itinerant Immortal that barely had the strength of the perfected Great Dao.


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun is back in Mt. Lightning Roar."


    "Where''s the Lotus Seed of Fate?"


    "The heavenly secrets are blurred. This Qin Yun is getting better at hiding the heavenly secrets. I can''t infer it!"


    Many ancient existences all over the Three Realms were watching Qin Yun closely.


    Be it Qin Yun''s concealment or the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure''s innate uniqueness, it made probing the truth very difficult. Only the few Heavenly Dao realm existences were capable of figuring it out.


    ******


    Mt. Lightning Roar. In a chamber.


    Qin Yun was cultivating in seclusion. The Misty Rain Sword was floating in front of him. After imbibing a drop of Samsara Dew, he continued studying it.


    He studied the Misty Rain Sword with two goals.


    First, it was the hope that he could rely on it to figure out the Great Dao of Man. That way, his Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man would be perfected.


    Second, it was to better develop the Misty Rain Sword''s strength!


    The moment his Misty Rain Sword broke through, it had become Qin Yun''s strongest treasure.


    In terms of the mystical Great Dao it contained, the infusion of the Lotus Seed of Fate made the Misty Rain Sword even stronger than the Qingping Sword despite them both being Connate Cardinal treasures. After all, it was also Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword. Its strength was naturally several times stronger. Furthermore, Qin Yun had been cultivating his Sword Dao all these years, so it was easier using the Misty Rain Sword than the Qingping Sword.


    However, no one would grumble about being strong. Qin Yun studied with greater dedication, also with the hope to produce mightier strength.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed suddenly as he vanished from his chamber, appearing in the yard outside his chamber.


    Standing in the yard, he looked up into the sky.


    A blurry gray claw came crashing down on Mt. Lightning Roar. The gigantic claw was even bigger than Mt. Lightning Roar! The surrounding void shattered and the mighty stance made Qin Yun know that Mt. Lightning Roar''s array formation was definitely unable to withstand the blow. It was a perfected Great Dao existence who was delivering the blow. Furthermore, it was an extremely dominating blow. It attacked with the intention of reducing Mt. Lightning Roar into desolate ruins.


    "Taowu, one of the Three Banes?" Qin Yun instantly guessed when he saw the blurry gray claw.


    These ancient lurking existences were all targeting him.


    Ruin is caused by the greed of others! The Lotus Seed of Fate was just too alluring.The Three Banes are Taowu, Taotie, and Qiongqi.

 637 Probe

    Considered as one of the Three Banes among Chaos Godfiends, known for being ruthless and overbearing in their actions, their strength was redoubtable. They had long reached the perfected Great Dao. Typically, Qin Yun would not wish to provoke such a being, but now that it was smashing down at Mt. Lightning Roar with the intention to flatten it, Qin Yun was infuriated with shock.


    This was his home!


    His family still lived in it.


    "Taowu!" Qin Yun bellowed angrily as a wisp of misty rain floated beside him. It was none other than the Misty Rain Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword split into three, turning into the swords of Heaven, Earth, and Man as they floated around him.


    Whoosh~


    The continuous pattering of tiny raindrops spread everywhere, drenching the distant attacking gray claw! The rain was formed by Qin Yun''s Misty Rain domain. After the Misty Rain Sword became an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, the Misty Rain domain had increased in strength exponentially. The gigantic claw found the raindrops extremely heavy and felt repressed upon contact.


    "These raindrops are quite interesting." A huge ugly face appeared amid the clouds as it looked down upon Mt. Lightning Roar, as its claw which was bigger than Mt. Lightning Roar continued bearing down.


    "What''s happening?"


    "What''s that?"


    Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor was also in a fluster. Yi Xiao, Qin Yuluo, Meng Huan, Qin Yiyi, and company, including the Qin Manor''s servants, were looking up.


    "Begone." Qin Yun stood there with a cold expression. Out of the three Heaven, Earth, and Man swords that floated around him, the Sword of Man suddenly flew out.


    "Sword of Man, Paramount Emotions Belie the Sword."


    At the core of the Sword of Man was emotions.


    The sword tore through the air towards the gigantic claw encased in a resplendent beam of light. Even if it was just a third of the Misty Rain Sword''s full form, it produced strength that was in no way inferior to the Qingping Sword.


    "Boom!"


    The sword flash clashed with the gigantic claw, sending the sword flash retreating backwards slightly. The gigantic claw came to a halt as the grayish energy flowing around it scattered chaotically.


    "It''s said that your Misty Rain Sword can split into three. I never expected that just one of those swords can withstand my claw." Countless gray swirls of air gathered as the dispersed gigantic claw materialized to form a stocky Chaos Godfiend.


    He was extremely muscular with swarthy skin. Although he was in human form, he had tiger''s claws and feet, and a row of sharp fangs.


    He stood there in midair, looking down at Mt. Lightning Roar. He continued, "If I''m correct, your Intrinsic Flying Sword has already reached the Connate Cardinal treasure level. From the looks of it, the Lotus Seed of Fate has been used to nurture your flying sword."


    "Taowu, if you wish to fight me, set the time and place. Aren''t you going overboard by directly attacking my Mt. Lightning Roar?" said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Overboard? Hahaha, you call this overboard? I think I''m already polite enough." Taowu roared with laughter that reverberated the surroundings. "Come, entertain me. I want to see how powerful the first Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms is. Unfortunately, in the hands of an Itinerant Immortal like you, it can''t be that much stronger."


    As he spoke, Taowu transformed into a stream of light and charged towards Mt. Lightning Roar. It was his habit to engage in melee combat.


    ¡­


    "It''s Taowu."


    In the Heavenly Courts, Jade Emperor put down his wine cup and looked in the direction of Mt. Lightning Roar. "The Lotus Seed of Fate is too alluring. Shortly after Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar, Taowu has attacked in his impatience. Although he is being rash, he is extremely powerful. As an Itinerant Immortal at the pinnacle mighty figure level, he is probably at the disadvantage despite having the Misty Rain Sword."


    ¡­


    "Is it my young friend Qin Yun?"


    In the Western Paradise Great World, Amita who emitted boundless light watched remotely with a smile. "I never expected that this young friend whom I shared a fate back then would now possess an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure."


    ¡­


    "It''s Taowu! Many in the Three Realms are monitoring Qin Yun. This Taowu is the first to attack."


    "Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword is so powerful. It''s an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure?"


    "The first Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms."


    All of them watched.


    The most anxious person was definitely Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    "Master, Taowu has both Bane and Flow avatars, and he sent Bane to attack Junior Brother Qin Yun." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain sent a voice transmission to the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "The Bane avatar is more domineering while the Flow avatar is more queer. The Bane avatar has sixty percent of his true form''s strength when it comes to direct combat. Junior Brother might not be his match."


    "Wudang, your Junior Brother will not have any problems with self-preservation even if he''s not his match," said the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a voice transmission. "This is a rare trial for him. There''s no need to worry."


    "Will not have any problems with self-preservation?" Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain did not think further. Since her master had said so, all she did was obey.


    ******


    Numerous experts across the Three Realms paid attention to Taowu''s clash with Qin Yun.


    The ancient existences knew of the Lotus Seed of Fate, so when they heard Taowu mention that Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword was an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, they were not surprised since it was within expectations. However, the other ordinary mighty figures were taken aback. Connate Cardinal treasure? And an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure at that? They knew Sword Immortal Qin was powerful, nearly invincible under the perfected Great Dao realm. He had nearly killed Sagedemon Nine Phoenix with a few strikes.


    But to possess an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure? That was way too fascinating.


    "Go."


    As Taowu swooped down, Qin Yun faced him head on. With a thought, the Sword of Man continued its attacks.


    The reason why he was using the Sword of Man was because he hoped to gain inspiration in the battle, so as to figure out the Great Dao of Man earlier.


    "Hahaha¡­" Taowu roared with laughter as he sent out a punch at the incoming flying sword.


    The punch was like a meteor.


    Boom!


    It sent the flying sword backward, but the flying sword turned around and continued its attack.


    "Bam! Bam! Bam!" The sword was either sent flying by his punches or his claw swipes. Now that Taowu had condensed his Bane avatar and turned serious, Qin Yun''s Sword of Man was completely repressed.


    Taowu was getting closer and closer to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Qin Yun, you can''t stop me. I will uproot Mt. Lightning Roar today and throw the entire mountain into the Moon Tooth Lake beside it." Taowu''s laughter was rapturous.


    "How impudent!" Qin Yun summoned the Sword of Man back with a thought as the Sword of Earth floating beside him flew out.


    "Hua!"


    The Sword of Earth streaked across the sky as it seemed to screen the area between the heaven and earth.


    Taowu struck out with a punch when he came close, causing the screen to quiver gently while still remaining intact. Having failed to tear apart the screen, Taowu was unable to go any closer to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Among the three swords of Heaven, Earth, and Man, the Sword of Earth is the best at defense. It can withstand Taowu. Of course, when the three swords set up the Misty Rain Array, they are even better at protecting me. Just a mere avatar of Taowu has no right to force me to use the Misty Rain Array to protect myself," thought Qin Yun.


    "Interesting, interesting." Taowu looked at Qin Yun through the invisible screen that filled the area. "Qin Yun, you are worth my burning of a Bane avatar."


    Boom!


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    The surface of Taowu''s burned as grayish flames appeared. His might increased exponentially.


    The Bane avatar was a condensation of his energy to begin with and not a real body of flesh and blood. Burning up his avatar was extremely easy, but it was also only done in desperation.


    Rip!


    Taowu, with his body aflame, struck out with both claws, tearing apart the screen formed by the Sword of Earth. He continued swooping straight down at Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Cast your Misty Rain Array. Let me see how powerful that protective array formation is!" Taowu''s eyes were burning with flames.


    "He is really forcing me. He knows my Misty Rain Array is powerful at defense. Is he attempting to probe my Misty Rain Array''s strength so as to make plans for the future?" Qin Yun thought. He was no fool either. He knew that these ancient existences in the Heavenly realm would not rob him since Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was able to take action in the Heavenly realm. However, Taowu''s Bane avatar had still taken action. He had probably determined that there was no risk of death since the Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was unlikely to attack a junior like him.


    Taowu had mainly taken action to determine where the Lotus Seed of Fate was. Secondly, he aimed to probe the means available to Qin Yun.


    As the saying goes, know yourself as well as you know the enemy to ensure victory.


    Only by getting to the bottom of Qin Yun''s strength could he take action with confidence when he was without the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s protection.


    "However, do you think you have what it takes to even look at my Misty Rain Array?" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed with a glint. Taowu had attacked his home and tried to probe him. Such actions left him infuriated.


    "Misty Rain Sword!"


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    The three flying swords floating around him stacked onto each other and fused to become the Misty Rain Sword.


    It could split; therefore fusion was obvious!


    By splitting it could make a formation, making it extremely good at protection.


    Fusion resulted in a single Misty Rain Sword. It was the best at offense and its might was much higher than even the Qingping Sword.


    "Shoo¡ª"


    A beam of light lit up!


    At that instant, it appeared to be brightest light in the Three Realms.


    The expression of the flaming Taowu''s avatar changed. He hurriedly raised his palms to block, but felt his palm hurt. The beam of light had tore through his palm and, in an instant, tore through his chest.

 638 Strength

    The power contained within the sword flash entrenched itself in Taowu''s body. It was filled with immense sharpness and destructive forces, causing his avatar to be repeatedly damaged.


    To not die instantly from having an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure penetrate him was already evidence how powerful Taowu''s avatar was.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The sword flash tore through Taowu''s flaming avatar repeatedly over Mt. Lightning Roar. In a blink of an eye, his body had been penetrated thirteen times. Although Taowu attempted to defend each blow in rage, he was unable to do so since Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword at full force was redoubtable in strength. After the thirteenth blow, the Taowu avatar reached the maximum damage it could withstand. With a rushing sound, the burning Taowu avatar disintegrated.


    Perfected Great Dao Chaos Godfiend Taowu''s Bane avatar was destroyed!


    "This Taowu''s Bane avatar is purely an amalgamation of power, but its body is on the weaker side. Even so, I needed to combine my three swords into the complete Misty Rain Sword to be capable of killing his avatar." Qin Yun did not feel proud in any way; instead, he turned more wary.


    If Taowu''s real body had come today, with his powerful body and his possession of a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword might not have been able to fend him off.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful will gathered anew as a gigantic face appeared above the clouds once again.


    While Qin Yun was introspecting, Taowu, as one of the Chaos Three Banes, was rather embarrassed that his Bane avatar was killed by a junior.


    "Qin Yun." The gigantic face above the clouds had a voice like rumbling thunder. "Your Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure has quite the means. But that was only an avatar of mine. If you have the guts, come to the Cold Valley Great World and fight my true body."


    "I, Qin Yun, have been focused on protective array formations so as to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. That offensive sword art¡­ was simply a lucky byproduct," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I just never expected that a chance enlightenment of a move or two was able to destroy your Bane avatar. It was something I never imagined possible."


    "A chance enlightenment of a move or two?" The gigantic face in the sky turned even more enraged.


    This Qin Yun was deliberately insulting him!


    "My time is very precious, so I won''t say much more to you." Qin Yun waved his hand as the clouds surrounding Mt. Lightning Roar rose and shielded it from external probes. It made it difficult for Taowu to see clearly.


    "Qin Yun, how dare you." Taowu was furious, but also helpless. Finally, the gigantic face above the clouds dissipated.


    Qin Yun turned back to shoot a glance at the gigantic face as it dissipated.


    He was speaking the truth.


    After obtaining the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, he was mainly focused on figuring out protective arrays while cultivating at home! In order to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, a protective array was essential! As for offensive moves? It was simply a fortuitous epiphany that he figured out the move¡ªA Little Starlight¡ªwhile taking in the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man from his Intrinsic Flying Sword."


    With just that move, he destroyed the Bane avatar.


    "Grandfather! Grandfather!" Qin Yuluo shouted from afar. "Was that one of the Chaos Three Banes as recorded in the family''s intelligence, Taowu?"


    He saw Yi Xiao and the rest of his family walk over.


    Upon seeing his wife, children, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter, Qin Yun could not help but smile. A major reason for his cultivation was because of the people in front of him. Before his final tribulation, he planned to make proper arrangements for his family.


    Qin Yuluo was extremely talented. With strength that matched a mighty figure, she was only second to Qin Yun in the Qin family. Naturally, she had read through the important intelligence the Qin family had, so she knew of the existence of the Chaos Three Banes.


    "Taowu of the Three Banes." Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up. Her husband was becoming stronger to the point that a perfected Great Dao expert had suffered a trouncing in front of him.


    "A perfected Great Dao expert? An existence that can be said to be invincible in a Great World?" Qin Yiyi was alarmed. By her side, Han Lin was shocked. His father-in-law was just too astounding! He had reached this stage in just a few millennia of cultivation. He had indeed lived up to his name as a peerless sword immortal whose cultivation pointed straight to a perfected Great Dao. It was only because of his becoming of an Itinerant Immortal that his cultivation path was fraught with tribulations. If he was not one, he would have been a powerful and free Golden Immortal with eternal life¡­ Perhaps the Heavenly Courts and various factions would have tried to rope him in. His situation would have been a lot pleasant than it was now.


    Even so.


    Qin Yun''s killing of Taowu''s Bane avatar probably shocked the eyes out of the Three Realms'' sockets. They also had to reevaluate this Sword Immortal Qin.


    "Look at all of you. It was only an avatar of his," said Qin Yun with a shake of his head. "If his true body was here, victory would be up in the air."


    "It''s only up in the air, right? Grandfather?" Qin Yuluo smiled.


    Qin Yun smiled.


    He had few offensive means at the moment, but his protective means were extremely powerful.


    Ignoring Taowu, Qin Yun was confident that he could defend against ancient existences who had extremely powerful offensive means. He only lacked confidence against a few, such as half-step Heavenly Dao realm entities like God King Zhurong who was known for being overbearing. Qin Yun felt that he had no idea if Zhurong was capable of cracking his Misty Rain Array unless an attempt was really made. Of course, it was best he did not try if possible! Losing might very well cost him his his life.


    As for Mighty God Hou Yi who was deemed to have the strongest attack below the Heavenly Dao realm, no attempts were needed. Qin Yun definitely could not withstand his strike! After all, he had seen Hou Yi''s arrow; it''s might was truly terrifying.


    Perhaps only when he reached the perfected Great Dao could he use his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure to set up a Misty Rain Array and have the confidence to withstand Hou Yi''s blow. But now, he was still far from it.


    ¡­


    "Nicely done of Qin Yun."


    "Taowu''s Bane avatar has about sixty percent of his true body''s strength! To be able to kill his Bane avatar¡­ Qin Yun''s strength is about Taowu''s equal."


    "And just as he said, his offensive blows are ordinary, but his defensive moves are impressive. Before his Misty Rain Sword was a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure, the Misty Rain Array he cast was enough to withstand Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body. Now that his Misty Rain Sword is a Connate Cardinal treasure, the Misty Rain Array has definitely reached a brand new realm! Even among perfected Great Dao existences, probably only a handful can crack it."


    "He now truly possesses the strength of a perfected Great Dao."


    The ancient existences discussed among themselves as they watched remotely.


    If Qin Yun was said to previously rely on the Qingping Sword to produce the strength of a perfected Great Dao by casting the Seven Stars Combo, that was only one move! His other means were lacking, putting him at the bottom among perfected Great Dao existences. Any of them in their true forms could trounce and even destroy him.


    Even though Patriarch Blood Sea had heaven-defying life-preservation means to the point of being deemed indestructible, his offensive means were relatively weaker. However, if the former Qin Yun were to plunge into the Boundless Blood Sea true body, he would have no doubt been doomed. Even Patriarch Blood Sea''s combat body with his Connate Cardinal treasure, the Negative Karma Fire Red Lotus, could eliminate Qin Yun.


    The former Qin Yun was indeed weak among perfected Great Dao existences.


    But now¡­


    They had to admit every perfected Great Dao had something they were most adept in.


    They were considered heaven-defying in that particular trait! For example, Patriarch Blood Sea''s Boundless Blood Sea was considered indestructible. Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s mouth was considered the best in the Three Realms. Mahamayuri''s Five-colored Divine Light left perfected Great Dao experts apprehensive. There was also Emperor Polestar''s inference and calculative array formations. All of them were adept at something, but fell short in other aspects.


    Qin Yun was adept at defensive measures, something which could be considered most important!


    "An Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure is truly impressive. It can actually allow a pinnacle mighty figure to leapfrog his realm and have strength equal to us."


    "Qin Yun''s strength is just short of the perfected Great Dao. He also has an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure which explains his strength."


    "If we possessed an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, perhaps we would have strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm."


    "It even makes me wish to reincarnate for cultivation. Unfortunately, the Fiend Ancestor might take action once I undergo reincarnation."


    "What are you even thinking? Even if he doesn''t take action, you will not produce one under normal reincarnation! There are only that few schools of thought in the Three Realms that have Intrinsic Dharma treasures. Would you try to cultivate talisman amulets? Can a musclehead like you figure out something as complicated as talisman amulets? If you were made to refine artifacts, would you spend thousands or millions of years on it? None of that suits you."


    "Don''t belittle me."


    The ancient existences discussed jovially.


    However, all of them were very envious of the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. Everyone could tell that an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure aided one''s strength in a way far greater than a Connate Cardinal treasure. Unfortunately, even if they snatched the Misty Rain Sword from Qin Yun, it would only be an ordinary Connate Cardinal treasure in their hands.

 639 Misty Rain Sword Gallerys Gallery Lord

    Qin Yun knew very well that after the Lotus Seed of Fate was used, the ancient existences'' greed towards it would lessen relatively. After all, the Misty Rain Sword was of less use to them than the Lotus Seed of Fate! But even so¡­ it was still a Connate Cardinal treasure! There were several perfected Great Dao experts, but many of them lacked Connate Cardinal treasures. So they decided to lay in wait, watching; it was just that their greed had reduced considerably.


    Except for one!


    It was someone Qin Yun had to be most careful of¡ªthe Fiend Ancestor who was at the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Yang Jian fused the Lotus Seed of Fate into his body; yet, the Fiend Ancestor wishes to have him killed to extract the Eye of Destruction. He has even once snuck up on Monkey Sun to refine him. He will similarly target my Misty Rain Sword." Qin Yun knew this point. "In the Heavenly realm, I have Master to protect me, so the Fiend Ancestor can''t do a thing. But if I were to head to other Great Worlds¡­ Master will not be able to help and the Fiend Ancestor would have means available to him.


    "He can either send Fiend King Boxun and the rest, or make a request of those ancient existences that keep a low profile. It''s all very possible.


    "So, unless I attain a perfected Great Dao, I cannot leave the Heavenly realm!"


    Qin Yun secretly decided.


    In the coming days, although there was strife in the external world, with many mighty figures coming to pay Qin Yun a visit, as well as seek his help, Qin Yun made a public announcement that he was "cultivating in seclusion and would not meet guests."


    He was indeed at home, studying the Misty Rain Sword in a bid to figure out the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    ¡­


    Even so.


    The perfected Great Dao was so close yet so far.


    Qin Yun only felt that he was closer and closer, but he was just unable to break through. Finally, three hundred years after his battle with Taowu''s Bane avatar, he descended the mountain and continued his original plans. He immersed himself in the mortal and secular world in search of his Great Dao of Man.


    ******


    Time quickly passed.


    The Heavenly realm was so vast it appeared boundless. It had countless kingdoms and in one of the tiny kingdoms, the Southern Nation, there was a tiny city, Lin City. In Lin City, there was a rather famous sword gallery, named the Misty Rain Sword Gallery. It had been founded more than thirty years ago and there were numerous disciples who came under it.


    Inside the Misty Rain Sword Gallery.


    "Senior Sister."


    "Senior Sister."


    The men and women practicing their swordplay in the Sword Gallery shouted in unison. The ages of this group of disciples ranged from five to middle-aged. And at that moment, they were acting very reverent towards a red-robed woman.


    Her name was Jin Yu, one of the three personal disciples of the Misty Rain Sword Gallery Lord. She had also cultivated to the Connate True Core realm and was rather famous in a small city like Lin City.


    "Good." Jin Yu knitted her brows slightly as she rapidly walked in.


    "Senior Sister is usually all smiles. Why does it seem like she''s vexed over something?"


    "All of you better give her some space. Don''t infuriate her."


    The ordinary disciples murmured in the gallery.


    Jin Yu continued walking to the back of the gallery.


    "Senior Sister." A maidservant held a large plate of fruits and walked in, immediately greeting Jin Yu when she saw her.


    "Xiaoqing, where''s Master?" asked Jin Yu.


    "Inside," said Xiaoqing with a smile.


    Jin Yu nodded and walked in. The moment she entered the backyard, she saw a white-robed man lounging on a lounge chair as though he was asleep.


    "Master," Jin Yu shouted immediately upon entry.


    "Oh?"


    The white-robed man immediately woke up and took a glance at Jin Yu. He said in quite a disparaging tone, "Lass, can''t you let me have some sleep. Hey, hey, hey, Qing¡­ I got you to buy some fruits, but it took you until now? I even fell asleep."


    "Old Master, there was none in the gallery, so I had to buy them. I already ran very quickly," mumbled Xiaoqing. Following that, she placed the plate of fruits on a tiny table by the side.


    "Hmm."


    The white-robed man was none other than Qin Yun. He felt that to figure out the Human Spirit, he had to immerse himself deeply in the mortal world. Therefore, he had opened a sword gallery and even took in disciples. He became a normal sword gallery master and had been at it for thirty years. He had even selected three promising ones among the numerous ordinary disciples. They were considered personal disciples of the gallery.


    If the world were to learn that Sword Immortal Qin had personal disciples, it would probably quickly spread across the Three Realms.


    But clearly, the Three Realms was unaware of it. His three personal disciples always believed that their master was only a relatively powerful mortal swordsman, one at the Connate Golden Core realm.


    As for what Qin Yun demonstrated to his disciples, he limited it to sword arts that had yet to step into the Dao! However, his guidance of his disciples were much more brilliant. He was considered a master who was good at teaching disciples. For example, his eldest and second eldest disciples¡­ appeared stronger than their master. They had condensed Essence Souls and had embarked on their journey towards immortality.


    The third disciple, Jin Yu, was the youngest and was only at the Connate True Core realm.


    As he was good at teaching, Master Qin''s reputation in Lin City was quite good. Many families sent their children to the Misty Rain Sword Gallery.


    "These grapes are good. They are big and sweet enough." Qin Yun was very happy as he ate the grapes.


    "Old Master, I knew you would like them, so I picked them very meticulously," Xiaoqing said happily.


    "Xiaoqing, take your leave for now. I have something to discuss with Master," said Jin Yu.


    "Alright." Xiaoqing immediately took her leave obediently.


    "What is it? You don''t seem to be in a good mood today." Qin Yun continued eating his grapes.


    Jin Yu whispered, "Master, Eldest Senior Brother is heavily injured. He''s now hiding at my place, but his injuries are extremely grave and it''s worsening by the day."


    Qin Yun put down the grapes and immediately got up. "Let''s go. Lead the way."


    "Eldest Senior Brother forced me not to tell you," whispered Jin Yu. "But, I really am out of ideas. If this continues, Eldest Senior Brother will be dead in less than half a month."


    "Your eldest senior brother is highly talented. He''s currently at the second firmament Essence Soul realm. How did he get those heavy injuries?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I''m not sure either." Jin Yu shook her head gently.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Over the past thirty years, although he had recruited many disciples with three of them being personal disciples, his sword gallery was only at the mortal level. For instance, his eldest and second eldest disciples would enter immortal sects after they condensed an Essence Soul. They would occasionally contact him, but it was much less frequent.


    After all, there was a difference between mortals and immortals. Immortals had long lifespans while mortals had short lifespans. Immortals had to suffer karma when dealing with mortals. For these reasons, it made those at the Essence Soul realm or higher have fewer interactions with mortals.


    Soon, they arrived at Jin Yu''s Jin Residence.


    They came into a room.


    Seated cross-legged on the bed was a muscular man with thick brows and large eyes. Dharmic powers were emanating from his body, but there was a green devilish Dharmic power that lingered around him, causing his breathing to turn weak.


    "Oh?" The man opened his eyes as he frowned slightly when he saw Jin Yu and Qin Yun enter.


    "This junior sister of mine." The man was helpless. He was at the Essence Soul realm, so he knew immediately the moment his master stepped into the Jin Residence.


    "Master."


    The man immediately got off the bed and bowed. However, this affected the wound at his chest. He staggered a little, but still managed to bow respectfully, "Greetings Master."


    "Junior Sister, didn''t I tell you not to tell Master?" The man could not help but look at his junior sister. He whispered, "I will only be here for a few days and then I''ll leave silently. No one would have known about it."


    "Senior Brother, I can tell that your injuries are worsening by the day," said Jin Yu worriedly.


    "Tian Huang, are you worried of troubling me or implicating me?" said Qin Yun with a scoff.


    The man wore a bitter expression as he said immediately, "Master, it''s really nothing. It''s just a minor injury."


    "If I''m not mistaken, you will not live past seven days with that injury of yours," said Qin Yun coldly. "And the demonic aura on you¡­ I have seen it before. It''s the Imperial Preceptor from our Southern Nation, right?"


    The man was taken aback.


    He never imagined that his master could identify the source.


    "I wanted to rid us of evil by killing him, but I never expected the fiend''s strength to exceed my expectations. After the battle, I fled with heavy injuries and was unable to continue any further when I arrived at Lin City. So all I could do was temporarily stay at Junior Sister''s to stabilize my injuries," said the man honestly. "I have also informed my sect. I believe the sect will send an Elder to receive me in a few days. They will be able to treat my wounds. Master, you don''t have to worry about me."


    "Eldest Senior Brother, you were the one who attempted the assassination of the Imperial Preceptor?" exclaimed Jin Yu. "No wonder they are searching everywhere. Our Lin City is being searched as well."


    "Don''t worry. Those mortals won''t be able to find me," exhorted the man immediately. "However, Master, Junior Sister, you must not expose my presence here or it will implicate you. Junior Sister, you too! I already repeated numerous times not to tell anyone, but you still told Master."


    "Is Master an outsider?" said Jin Yu immediately. "And isn''t is because I''m worried for you?"


    "Alright, from now on, don''t spread it any further! If the Imperial Preceptor were to learn of my presence here, it would be terrible," said the man.

 640 Pill

    "Yes." Jin Yu nodded hurriedly. "I will be careful. That Imperial Preceptor''s strength is far greater than yours. If he comes, none of us can stop him."


    "That''s right. No one can. Even I, your master, am only a mortal," said Qin Yun wistfully.


    Tian Huang hurriedly said, "Master, don''t worry. As long as I hide here and do not appear in public, the Imperial Preceptor will not be able to find me."


    "Let''s not talk about this. We should focus on your injuries." Qin Yun looked at him. "When will the Elder from your sect arrive? You won''t be able to last long with those injuries."


    "Probably in the next few days," said Tian Huang honestly. "Elder is a Skyimmortal. I directly informed the sect and they said they''d send an Elder here. As for whether it takes three or five days, I have no idea."


    "You will be dead in seven days."


    Qin Yun thought for a moment and frowned before he flipped his hand to produce a jade bottle. He then threw it at Tian Huang. "Take this."


    "What is this?" asked Tian Huang.


    "I obtained this pill years ago while traveling the world thanks to some immortal encounter," said Qin Yun as he faked a story. "It''s name is a Tiny Essence Immortal Pill. It should be more than enough to treat that bit of injuries of yours."


    "Tiny Essence Immortal Pill?" Tian Huang was alarmed. "This is way too valuable."


    "There''s no hope for me to condense an Essence Soul." Qin Yun looked at Tian Huang. "This Immortal Pill will be wasted if used by me, so I might as well give it to you. However, don''t be in a hurry to use it. If that Elder comes in time, there''s no need to consume it. If he doesn''t make it in time, consume the Immortal Pill."


    "Master¡­" Tian Huang was moved to tears. "This Immortal Pill is important to Essence Sou level Essence Souls as well. Master, you could use it to exchange for numerous benefits. Perhaps there will be a chance of you condensing an Essence Soul."


    "Take it!" Qin Yun glared.


    Having entered the Misty Rain Sword Gallery at six, he was taught for twenty years. In Tian Huang''s heart, this master was like his father.


    Even though his strength had "far exceeded" his master, he did not dare disobey him.


    "Master, why don''t you go to the Cloud Ink Sect with me?" suggested Tian Huang. "My parents were taken with me to reside in Cloud Ink City. Master, you can go there for its an immortal city of the Cloud Ink Sect. It has billions of people and I''m a Cloud Ink Sect disciple. I can allow my family to stay behind. Furthermore, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies there are richer and there will be more opportunities."


    "I''m not going. I''m not going anywhere. Don''t try to persuade me." Qin Yun turned around and casually waved his hand. "Punk, take good care of yourself. I''m leaving."


    With that said, he left.


    As Tian Huang watched Qin Yun leave, his heart was moved. "Master."


    "Master is so nice to you. He gave you an Immortal Pill just like that." Jin Yu was rather envious.


    "The kindness Master has given me is something I will be indebted to for life," said Tian Huang. Following that, he whispered, "Junior Sister, did you notice it? Our master had an immortal encounter and produced this Immortal Pill. He identified the demonic aura to be the Imperial Preceptor''s at a glance. Although I have yet to step into the Dao with the sword arts he taught, he is adept in many sword arts. He''s fully faceted. Even those at the Essence Soul realm might not be as fully faceted as he is. Master looks rather casual and unbridled at times, but he chooses to stay in a tiny remote city. Furthermore, he ignores all the women who have had shown him interest. He''s extremely stubborn. For more than three decades, he has been alone. So I believe that¡­ Master might very well have an emotional scar which resulted in his present state. That''s why he ignores my invitation of bringing him to Cloud Ink Immortal City."


    "Yea." Jin Yu nodded. "That''s quite true."


    ¡­


    As the two disciples discussed, Qin Yun had leisurely returned to the Misty Rain Sword Gallery. Along the way, he even bought some food to eat along the way.


    "Thankfully, I have been walking the human world over the past few centuries. Occasionally, I wipe out those fiendish demons who do evil and collected their belongings. It allowed me to produce such a pill." Qin Yun thought wistfully. "If not, it would truly be quite hard for me to find such an inferior pill."


    What he had on him were at the very least supreme-grade numinous treasures or Connate Wonders.


    Ordinary treasures were stored in his Qin Manor''s treasury. Now, Qin Yun would directly wipe out the corpses of fiendish demons below the mighty figure realm without even bothering to store them.


    As for the Tiny Essence Immortal Pill?


    Just one blow of Qin Yun''s immortal breath could restore an Essence Soul cultivator to normal. Its effects would be much better than such an Immortal Pill, so he naturally did not carry them on him.


    Therefore, he was able to produce the Tiny Essence Immortal Pill all thanks to the fiendish demons he killed in the past few centuries.


    "Speaking of which, it''s been seven thousand years since I became an Itinerant Immortal. When will I be able to figure out the Great Dao of Man?" Qin Yun lay in his lounge chair. Beside him was the big plate of fruits the maidservant had previously delivered. There was also a bunch of food he had bought himself. As he ate, he pondered.


    Cultivation was as such.


    As the accumulations grow, what seems increasingly close only leaves one vexed when the breakthrough never comes!


    But at times, a breakthrough might happen all too suddenly!


    ******


    Night.


    Capital of the Southern Nation.


    In a luxurious residence''s chamber, the Imperial Preceptor held a voice transmission object. He wore a cold expression while dressed in a regal gown.


    "Whoosh." A phantom appeared beside him. It was that of a white-haired elder.


    "Greetings, Elder Qian." The Imperial Preceptor was rather polite. "Might I know of the reason why you are seeking me? I have done everything you have instructed me to perfection."


    "I''m contacting you to tell you of something," said the white-haired elder. "My Cloud Ink Sect has a disciple named Tian Huang. His hometown is in the Southern Nation."


    "For a small nation like the Southern Nation to have someone enter the Cloud Ink Sect, that''s truly an honor for the Southern Nation," lauded the Imperial Preceptor.


    "A few days ago, a cultivator attempted to assassinate you, right?" asked the white-haired elder.


    The Imperial Preceptor''s expression changed as he hurriedly said, "Yes, that cultivator appeared to be at the second firmament Essence Soul realm. But I cultivate my body and am extremely good at melee sword arts. I nearly perished, but he was hit by my lethal poison. He won''t live for long."


    "The one who assassinated you was my Cloud Ink Sect disciple, Tian Huang," said the white-haired elder. "He had reported your misdeeds to the Cloud Ink Sect and has sought reinforcements! As his injuries are heavy, my Cloud Ink Sect has sent one of my junior brothers¡­ By my estimate, my junior brother will arrive in Southern Nation three days from now. When the time comes, he will save Tian Huang and investigate the Southern Nation. If your misdeeds are confirmed, you be wiped out in passing."


    "T-This¡­ Elder Qian, I have always been working for you," said the Imperial Preceptor immediately.


    "Don''t worry," Elder Qian said, "Tian Huang''s request for help has indicated that the meet up point is in the Jin residence in Southern Nation''s Lin City. Go there immediately and kill Tian Huang before my junior brother arrives! Then, resolve any matters in the Southern Nation and hide for a few years! After this is over, I will allow you to return to the Southern Nation."


    "Yes," said the Imperial Preceptor in great reverence immediately.


    Soon, the phantom dissipated.


    After the transmission was cut.


    "Nice, so it''s a cultivator from our Southern Nation and one that comes from the Cloud Ink Sect." There was a cold look in the Imperial Preceptor''s eyes. "Tian Huang? Tian Huang ah, the Southern Nation is one of the tiny nations under the Cloud Ink Sect''s rule. If I did not have a Cloud Ink Sect Skyimmortal backing me, how would I be able to hoodwink the masses and be so carefree for so long?"


    An hour later.


    Imperial Preceptor and two other figures arrived at the tiny city of Lin City.


    "Brother, we have arrived at Lin City," said a demon behind.


    "Okay. According to the intelligence, Tian Huang''s family has been sent to Cloud Ink Immortal City. The only one left in Lin City¡­ is a swordsman master named Qin Nan. Tian Huang came under this swordsman''s tutelage at six and studied under him for twenty years. Their relationship is as close as a father is to a son. Now, this swordsman master is still teaching other sword arts in the Misty Rain Sword Gallery. Quickly capture him. Remember, he is to be captured alive! Following that, bring that swordsman master to the Jin residence to meet up with me." The Imperial Preceptor''s eyes were cold. "Hmph, how dare you try to assassinate me. You nearly took my life, so how can I allow you to die that simply?"


    "Yes, I''ll do it immediately. He''s only mortal after all." The demon looked down at Lin City.


    With his second firmament Essence Soul strength, he quickly swept through the tiny city.


    "Misty Rain Sword Gallery. I see it! It''s there! Brother, I''ll head over to capture him now!" The demon immediately transformed into a stream of light as he flew off.


    "Let''s head to the Jin residence," said the Imperial Preceptor as he led another demon toward the Jin residence.

 641 This Is The Human World

    In the backyard of the Misty Rain Sword Gallery.


    Qin Yun looked up at the moon in the night sky as he glanced a distance far away, seeing the three demons that had arrived in Lin City.


    He did a simple calculation as he muttered, "So the Southern Nation''s Imperial Preceptor backer is an Elder from the Cloud Ink Sect? The Cloud Ink Sect is also a member of my Numinous Treasure lineage. As my Numinous Treasure lineage has humans and demons mixed in it, the rules are too relaxed. To think a Skyimmortal Elder dares act so brazenly. He even schemed to kill a disciple of his own sect? He deserves death!"


    With just a sentence, he had determined Elder Qian''s fate.


    There were two reasons for Elder Qian''s death sentence.


    First, he was engaging in fratricidal fighting! Although the Numinous Treasure lineage had relaxed rules, it was very united. Killing one of their own was taboo.


    Second, he had wreaked havoc on a nation with the help of the Imperial Preceptor. By using all sorts of means, many of the sins were shouldered by the demons, resulting in him receiving less of the sinful burden. However, Qin Yun was not the Three Realms''s Heavenly Dao; he could determine that Elder Qian was the primary instigator and deserved death!


    "Haha¡­"


    As a laughter resonated in the backyard, a figure appeared in the night sky before landing behind Qin Yun. He was a rather stocky man who stared intently at Qin Yun. The demonic aura he suffused was very powerful as well. He was none other than the second firmament Essence Soul demon who had been ordered to capture Qin Yun.


    "Are you Qin Nan, Misty Rain Sword Gallery''s sword master?" The demon grinned strangely as surging demonic Dharmic powers blanketed the yard. "For a mortal, you sure are good at teaching disciples. You managed to teach a disciple that can hurt my brother. There''s no need to feel aggrieved for having such disciple even if you die. Follow me!"


    The surging Dharmic powers had completely bound Qin Yun in preparation to capture him alive.


    Qin Yun gave him a glance.


    The demon''s laughter came to a halt as his expression froze. He looked at Qin Yun in a daze.


    "Go, to the Jin residence," Qin Yun said as he flew up.


    "Yes." The demon''s turbid eyes restored to normal, but he continued flying obediently with Qin Yun to the Jin residence.


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun and the demon arrived in the Jin residence, they saw that Tian Huang, who was still heavily injured, had been thrown onto the ground in the yard. He could not bear to eat the pill Qin Yun gave him since if the sect Elder came in time, the pill could be used to save lives in the future. However, he never expected the Imperial Preceptor to come first.


    The heavily injured Tian Huang was completely no match for his attackers.


    "Tian Huang. Citizen of the Southern Nation''s Lin City. Disciple of the Cloud Ink Sect." A sinister elder in a black regal gown chuckled insidiously. "I never expected the assassin would be a citizen of the Southern Nation. It''s quite a feat for the Southern Nation to produce such an expert, but unfortunately, you are doomed."


    "It should have been impossible for you to find me. I cultivate in a physical Dharmic formulation. My looks and aura can change. It''s impossible you could recognize me." Tian Huang was reeling in despair. "I hid here, converging and concealing my aura. Even if you came to Lin City, you shouldn''t have discovered me." He was very confident of the Cloud Ink Sect''s Dharmic formulation, but he was quite stupefied at the moment.


    This was because the Imperial Preceptor''s locating of him not only meant that he was doomed; it also meant that he would implicate others. This was something he could not accept at all.


    "Are you underestimating me? Do you think I can''t find you because of that?" The Imperial Preceptor laughed as he waved his hand. Surging Dharmic powers enveloped the entirety of the Jin residence and instantly, a woman was pulled over. She was none other than the soundly sleeping Jin Yu who was in her underclothes. Tian Huang hurriedly caught his junior sister when she was thrown to the ground.


    Jin Yu was somewhat stunned.


    She was sleeping soundly moments ago; why was she here?


    "Senior Brother." Jin Yu looked at the blood trickling down the corners of Tian Huang''s lips and saw the two demons with flaring Dharmic powers. The leader was a sinister elder in a black regal gown. Her body quivered as she asked, "They are¡­"


    "I''m the Southern Nation''s Imperial Preceptor," said the black regal-gowned elder with a smile.


    "Imperial Preceptor?" Jin Yu''s expression turned pale.


    They were doomed!


    "Brother, I''ve caught Misty Rain Sword Gallery''s sword master!" A demon landed in the yard with Qin Yun as he spoke.


    "Master." Jin Yu and Tian Huang turned more anxious when they saw Qin Yun.


    "His Dharmic powers have been sealed by me. You can do anything you''d like to him." The demon was grinning as Qin Yun stood by the side silently. He was in no hurry to reveal his strength. After all, he roamed the human world to seek the Great Dao of Man. He took on various roles to experience different situations. Therefore, unless necessary, he did not reveal strength that exceeded his role. Even when he did, he would do so in silence¡­ Others would not realize it.


    For example, he was controlling the second firmament demon, but no one was aware of that.


    "Tian Huang, your master is here as well." The Imperial Preceptor felt even more pleased. "You took him as your master at six. You have cultivated for more than thirty years, with twenty years under his tutelage. It''s said your relationship is excellent; it''s as if he''s your father? Hahaha¡­ Oh, there''s this junior sister too. It will only be more tragic for her. Her entire Jin family will be finished."


    "Master, Junior Sister." Tian Huang was momentarily unsure how to face the situation. His master and junior sister were in a perilous situation, and his junior sister''s entire household was doomed.


    "Kill me if you want to kill me. Why implicate my family?" Jin Yu said through gritted teeth. "Besides, I was the one who hid Senior Brother. My master did not know of it."


    "Imperial Preceptor, killing mortals is highly sinful. If there''s any vendetta, aim it at me." Tian Huang stared at the Imperial Preceptor intently.


    "I have means to resolve the sins. As long as it''s not something too major, I can withstand it." The Imperial Preceptor waved his hand as he smiled, pulling a beautiful woman over. She was dressed properly and she had a needle and thread in her hand. She was astounded by everything when she was pulled through the air.


    "Mom." Jin Yu hurriedly hugged the woman.


    "Yu''er." Madam Jin was dumbfounded when she saw her daughter.


    "Mom, it''s my fault. My fault," muttered Jin Yu as tears streamed down her cheeks. She knew that a calamity had befallen them. Even her mother was implicated.


    Tian Huang looked at his junior sister hug her mother while sobbing. His heart pained as he blamed himself.


    "Why, why did I hide in my junior sister''s house? Was it because I did not want to be disturbed? Was I overly confident? I was taken in by the Cloud Ink Sect and had a smooth cultivation. Although my assassination of the Imperial Preceptor failed, I easily escaped. I was confident that he could not find me? I underestimated him, but I ended up harming Junior Sister and Master." Tian Huang''s face turned pale.


    "Madam Jin, you might not know me. I''m the Southern Nation''s Imperial Preceptor. This Tian Huang attempted an assassination on me and deserves to be punished with death for his crime. Your daughter even gave him refuge," said the Imperial Preceptor. "Therefore, you and your daughter shall die; same for Tian Huang and his Master."


    "Mom, sorry. Sorry," Jin Yu apologized profusely.


    Ever since her father passed away, her mother was her only kin.


    Her mother managed the Jin family and also took good care of her.


    Jin Yu was not afraid of death, but she did not wish to implicate her mother.


    "Yu''er, don''t continue." Madam Jin hugged her daughter and looked at the Imperial Preceptor. "Imperial Preceptor, we are just mere mortals. Can you spare my daughter?"


    "All of you have to die. If anyone is to blame, it''s Tian Huang." The Imperial Preceptor watched as Tian Huang''s expression in glee.


    Tian Huang was indeed in pain as he blamed himself.


    He stared at the Imperial Preceptor and said in a deep voice, "There''s no way you can stop me if I were to commit suicide. I''m willing to surrender as long as you let my master and my junior sister''s entire family off."


    "Surrender?" The Imperial Preceptor nodded slightly. "That sounds good. You can allow me to vent my frustration as I wish. I would be able to do anything I wish, but unfortunately, you are a Cloud Ink Sect disciple. Therefore, everything has to be done cleanly tonight. You have to die, as well as them."


    "You¡­"


    Tian Huang''s eyes seemed to crack.


    No hope was given.


    "I''ll give you a little more time. You can say your last words to each other before all of you die!" said the Imperial Preceptor. He felt that doing so made Tian Huang suffer more than experiencing a swift and direct death.


    And it was indeed the case.


    It was fine if a cultivator died alone, but to implicate his loved ones¡­


    "Master." Tian Huang plopped to the ground on his knees as tears streamed down his cheeks. "Master, I''m sorry for implicating you. I have always wished to repay you, but not only did I not do it, I even brought a calamity upon you."


    "It''s not your fault." Qin Yun looked at him.


    When Tian Huang heard his master''s first words to be ''it''s not your fault'' after being captured, scenes surfaced in his mind. He could not help but feel more guilt while tears poured down.


    "Yu''er." Madam Jin hugged her daughter as well, while Jin Yu returned with a tight hug. Even if death was upon them, they were dying together.


    "Master, Junior Sister, it''s all my fault. I will repay everything to you in my next life." After Tian Huang said that while kneeling, his eyes turned red as he transformed into a stream of light that charged at the Imperial Preceptor!


    He was risking it all!


    Bam!


    The Imperial Preceptor, who was already prepared, waved his hand, throwing out a huge seal. It slammed into Tian Huang, throwing him to the ground. It left a massive crater in his wake.


    "Since you are in a hurry to die, die!" The Imperial Preceptor''s violent demonic auras surged.


    Qin Yun watched this scene from the side.


    At that moment, Madam Jin and Jin Yu were hugging each other, unwilling to loosen their grip despite their impending deaths.


    At that moment, the guilt-ridden Tian Huang counterattacked.


    The Imperial Preceptor''s expression was nasty, but his eyes had a look of excitement in them. He wanted to kill everything.


    The events unfolding before them were like a picturesque scene. It was also an inconspicuous scene in the vast human word. There was the reluctance from parting, guilt and shame, hatred, and craziness¡­


    At this moment, he recalled scenes that were buried deep in his memories, from the moment he could first remember more than ten thousand years ago.


    "Save me! Save me¡­" His sister was shouting as she was taken away by demons.


    The old servant Uncle Qian''s desperate bid to protect Jia Huairen.


    The death of Water God, causing all of Grand Dominance County to rejoice.


    The kiss with Yi Xiao under the bright moon.


    ¡­


    All that he had experienced over the past ten thousand years seemed to play out in a long piece of painting. Countless paintings appeared before Qin Yun''s eyes.


    "This is the human world," muttered Qin Yun. "This is the Great Dao of Man I''ve been searching for."

 642 Perfected Great Dao

    This human world¡­


    It had a plethora of emotions, from love to hate, causing separation and reunion.


    There were the lofty sentiments such as enjoying life and living in the moment, and there were others who preferred honor to life.


    There were toddlers running around giggling while the elderly sat to the side alone, thinking of their old partners.


    Warriors dyed the battlefields with their blood as their wives waited for their husbands'' return with children in tow.


    ¡­


    These countless scenes formed the human world.


    Such a human world was something that Qin Yun was sentimentally attached to. He was sentimental and passionate about all of this.


    Despite knowing that the Great Chang world was on a brink of destruction, with Yang Jian and other immortals and buddhas willing to rescue him and a small number of people, he chose to transcend the tribulations to embark on the Itinerant Immortal path of no return. He had given up an eternal life of carefreeness and the safety of his family because he was passionate about the human world. He was willing to sacrifice himself for billions of people.


    Demon Emperor Bai Ze once asked if he had regretted it.


    Qin Yun had said back then that he "saw the billions of lifeforms produced in the Great Chang world and saw countless children running around happily. I felt joy, joy from choosing to transcend the tribulations prematurely. I''m joyful that I protected them."


    It was completely in line with what he truly felt.


    Only in that moment did Qin Yun understand that that was the Human Spirit!


    His love for the human world, the willingness to use his life to protect it.


    For instance, the Three Sovereigns¡ªSuirenshi, Fuxishi, and Shennongshi¡ªwere passionate about humanity and had sacrificed everything. Up to this day, they were still protecting humanity.


    Like the heroes who protected humanity at the cost of their lives, they possessed the Human Spirit in their hearts despite being mere mortals and having no idea about Dao hearts.


    Qin Yun had done so in the past as well.


    It was only today that he realized just how sentimental he was to the human world. It was likely the same with the Three Sovereigns.


    The selfish and crafty fiends who were willing to sacrifice an entire world without batting an eyelid would never figure out the Human Spirit no matter how many insights they had about nature. There was no way they could figure out the Great Dao of Man!


    The immortals who led carefree, eternal lives and stood high above others, often viewing the countless mortals suffering as though they were watching ants. Even if they abided by the precepts and were highly perceptive, they equally could not figure out the Human Spirit or the Great Dao of Man.


    To figure out the Human Spirit?


    One first had to have the Human Spirit!


    Qin Yun long had it, and it was something the Three Sovereigns could tell. That was why he figured it out today.


    The Human Spirit was considered the soul. The Great Dao mysteries and charms he had gained over the years were the skeletal structure. Both naturally formed a complete system. A pinnacle Great Dao of Man surfaced in Qin Yun''s heart.


    "Sword Dao¡ªGreat Dao of Heaven, Great Dao of Earth, Great Dao of Man."


    With Heaven, Earth, and Man, his Sword Dao fused as one.


    It was the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man!


    This was the perfected Great Dao that Qin Yun had been pursuing all along.


    "Boom!"


    Very naturally, Qin Yun figured out the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Everything was proceeding naturally under the most ripe of conditions.


    Qin Yun felt as though he was seeing the Three Realms''s birth as the Heaven, Earth, and Man split.


    "No wonder. It''s no wonder that every perfected Great Dao existence is so powerful. Emperor Polestar''s schemes and calculations, Mahamayuri''s Five-colored Divine Light, Fuxishi''s array formation." Qin Yun was enlightened. "Every perfected Great Dao represents the limit below that of the Heavenly Dao. Every perfected Great Dao has means to remain unique in the Three Realms. No matter how heaven-defying a pinnacle mighty figure is, there will still be an immense gap. For instance, even though Yang Jian is considered extremely powerful among pinnacle mighty figures and had the Divine Eye of Destruction, he still nearly died fighting Patriarch Blood Sea. Previously, I could only fight above my level and match them only because of an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure.


    "Once the Dao is figured out, all Dharma spells and divine powers are enhanced as well."


    At that instant, Qin Yun felt that the past escape arts, protective divine powers, protective arts, domains, and other means he had learned could be perfected with the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man as its foundation, resulting in a qualitative change. That was why perfected Great Dao experts had many brilliant measures.


    "Even my very simple Misty Rain domain previously cast through my Misty Rain Sword¡­ barely influenced the perfected Great Dao Taowu''s Bane avatar," thought Qin Yun. "And now, casting it again, my Misty Rain Sword''s Misty Rain domain will be more profound and its might shall increase exponentially.


    "Furthermore, my Dharmic powers have been raised again. After advancing from a pinnacle mighty figure to the perfected Great Dao, using stronger Dharmic powers to power the Misty Rain Sword will only increase the strength further.


    "Combined, the Misty Rain domain will be ten times stronger than before.


    "Even perfected Great Dao experts will fear my Misty Rain domain." Qin Yun understood this point.


    This was only his most unimpressive move.


    The moves which he was really good at could only be described as terrifying!


    After all, a perfected Great Dao sword immortal matched with an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was naturally terrifying.


    "This place is not suitable for a breakthrough. I''ll wait till I return to Green Touring Palace and have my Essence Soul and Dharmic powers break through," thought Qin Yun. His Dharmic powers were still stuck at the pinnacle mighty figure level. Although he had already figured out the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, who in the Three Realms would know if he did not say so?


    ¡­


    Above the Yu family''s residence.


    Qin Yun stood to the side as Misty Rain Sword Gallery''s master. He had silently figured out a perfected Great Dao and become the most terrifying sword immortal in the Three Realms.


    "Hahaha, don''t bother struggling. No one can save you today!" The Imperial Preceptor deliberately acted without restraint as he struck the seal onto Tian Huang, worsening his injuries. "Your body cultivation sure is resistant. You can probably withstand another ten blows? Whatever, I''ll kill your master and junior sister first. Oh? Who shall I kill first? I''ll guess I''ll kill your master first. He did not complain at all when he was captured. All he said was ''it''s not your fault.'' He sure is nice to you."


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    The seal hurled towards Qin Yun.


    "Master." Tian Huang''s eyes seemed to crack.


    He could resist the seal when it struck the second firmament body he cultivated, but his master was only mortal.


    "It''s really a good day today," said Qin Yun suddenly with a smile.


    He was only speaking normally when the seal failed to land on him. It was suspended in midair.


    Even the Imperial Preceptor demon turned motionless, maintaining the posture of him waving his hand to throw the seal. The other two demons similarly had their expressions frozen. It was as though time had paused, leaving only horror in their eyes.


    "Master." Tian Huang was somewhat taken aback as the scene before his very eyes were somewhat odd.


    "Although I''m in a good mood, the three of you have been holding a candle to the devil and done a lot of evil. It''s best you reincarnate." As Qin Yun spoke, the Imperial Preceptor and the other two demons silently disintegrated.


    Tian Huang, as well as Madam Jin and Jin Yu were stunned. All of them looked at Qin Yun.


    Anyone could tell that this Master Qin who had been residing in Lin City for more than thirty years was very extraordinary.


    "Master, you¡­" Jin Yu uttered.


    "Tian Huang, Jin Yu," said Qin Yun with a smile. "When the two of you became my disciples, the both of you were still children. In a blink of an eye, both of you are already this big. I have stayed in Lin City for more than three decades and am very happy to have three disciples like yourselves."


    "Master, you are?" Tian Huang could not help but ask.


    "Master, are you an expert? A Skyimmortal? A fifth firmament Skyimmortal? Eight firmament Skyimmortal?" Jin Yu could not curb her excitement as she asked. She was at the Connate True Core realm. To her, Skyimmortals were very powerful. She was naturally excited because she and her mother did not need to die. The Jin residence was spared as well. How could she not be excited?


    Furthermore, her master was impressively powerful!


    "It''s time I leave," said Qin Yun. "It''s unknown when we will meet again after this separation."


    "Master, you are leaving?" Jin Yu immediately turned anxious. Her father had passed away a long time ago and it was her mother who brought her up. She had been Qin Yun''s disciple from a young age. To her, Qin Yun was like her father.


    "Master, when can we meet you again?" asked Tian Huang anxiously as well.


    "When can you meet me again?" Qin Yun hesitated.


    As a perfected Great Dao sword immortal, he had an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, making him more powerful than Demon Emperor Bai Ze''s former incarnation! However, he still did not have any confidence transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation could only be transcended with a perfected Great Dao strength. What about the twelfth?


    "If the two of you cultivate to the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm, go to Mt. Lightning Roar to seek me," said Qin Yun. "If you don''t, there''s no need to meet again."


    With that said, three sword beams flew out from his fingertip. Two of them flew into Tian Huang''s and Jin Yu''s bodies, while the third sword beam tore through the sky and entered his second disciple, Fan Yong, who was millions of kilometers away.


    His second disciple was sitting cross-legged in meditation.


    When the sword beam tore through the sky and entered his body, it left him dazed.


    "I have imparted the three of you a sword beam each. They contain a Sword Dao heritage," said Qin Yun. "Every Sword Dao beam is at the mighty figure level. Although they are different from one another, they are most suitable to each one of you individually.


    "Cultivate well. If fate permits¡­" Qin Yun hesitated for a moment, "perhaps we might meet again."


    Would they meet again?


    It would depend on where the Itinerant Immortal tribulations ended and how powerful it was at the end.


    With that said, Qin Yun turned to leave. In a single step, he reached high into the sky, and with another step, he vanished.


    As they watched their master disappear into the night, Tian Huang and Jin Yu were dumbfounded.


    "Senior Brother, did you hear it? The three sword beams that Master gave us are at the mighty figure level. And that they are all different?" Jin Yu was somewhat confounded. "What realm does Master have?"


    "Very, very high," muttered Tian Huang. "When I grow stronger, I must figure out what Mt. Lightning Roar is."


    "Senior Brother, you have to tell me when you find out. Tell me who exactly our Master is." Jin Yu was extremely curious to know.

 643 Master, Isve Broken Through!

    The three disciples received Qin Yun''s heritage, while far away in the Cloud Ink Sect, Elder Qian was hosting a banquet.


    In the hall, there were dancers performing.


    Elder Qian sat at the seat of honor with several immortals sitting beside him. They were all chatting while drinking immortal brew.


    "Uh¡ª" Elder Qian, who was holding a wine cup while chuckling, suddenly widened his eyes before collapsing in his seat. He was no longer breathing.


    "Daoist Qian."


    "Junior Brother Qian."


    A commotion stirred as everyone surged over. However, Elder Qian''s soul had already dissipated. He was completely dead.


    Elder Qian had died without any warning in front of so many immortals while still inside the Cloud Ink Sect! It naturally caused a stir in the Cloud Ink Sect. Just as the sect was about to investigate the matter, the Cloud Ink Sect Master and the sect''s Dao Protector suppressed the matter. It left many disciples puzzled. As such, Elder Qian''s death became a mystery.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun killed Elder Qian across the void, he left the Heavenly realm and came to the Green Touring Palace.


    At the entrance of the Green Touring Palace''s main hall was a Dao Child.


    "Senior Brother Qin." The Dao Child smiled as he receive him.


    "Please inform my master that I wish to meet him," said Qin Yun.


    "Alright." The Dao Child smiled reverently as he faced the hall and transmitted the news. "Master, Senior Brother Qin Yun wishes to seek an audience."


    And inside the main hall.


    It was empty, but a figure suddenly descended on a bed of clouds. He was none other than the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "Let him in," said Numinous Treasure.


    He was somewhat puzzled. "I wonder why this disciple of mine is suddenly seeking me out. Speaking of which, it has been more than seven thousand years since he became an Itinerant Immortal. There''s little time left for him. Only by attaining a perfected Great Dao will he have the chance to fight the tribulation. If he fails to obtain a perfected Great Dao, there will no hope. He will be doomed. Unfortunately, he can only rely on himself. No one can help him."


    So what if others were anxious? All they could do was watch from the side.


    Qin Yun''s Sword Dao was pointed towards the perfected Great Dao the moment it was attained; it garnered the envy of others and the appreciation of the Dao Ancestor. But Numinous Treasure also knew that to attain a perfected Great Dao in about ten thousand years was very difficult.


    And at that moment, Qin Yun had walked in.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed.


    "Is there a reason you''ve come to me?" asked Numinous Treasure with a smile.


    Qin Yun reverently reported, "Master, I''ve broken through!"


    The smiling Numinous Treasure''s expression froze. He was stupefied for an instant before his smile turned brilliant! Even as a member of the Three Pure Ones, he only ever had two disciples cultivate a perfected Great Dao to date. One of them was Daoist Myriad Treasure and the other was the Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. Furthermore, Daoist Myriad Treasure had become a Buddhist because of his cultivation. It weakened the Green Touring Palace''s foundations greatly.


    After all, as Heavenly Dao realm existences, they were forced to leave the Three Realms in the future. If Green Touring Palace only had the Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain to back it, it would drastically lose its standing in the Three Realms.


    Now that Qin Yun had broken through, it left Numinous Treasure a lot more excited.


    "Broken through?" Numinous Treasure''s smile was radiant and extremely kind. "You have attained a perfected Great Dao?"


    "It happened minutes ago," said Qin Yun respectfully. "I figured out the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, so I immediately came to Green Touring Palace to meet you, Master."


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Numinous Treasure laughed rapturously. "Good! You have attained a perfected Great Dao and have an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. As long as you solidify your progress, your strength will be at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm! You will be stronger than Bai Ze''s former incarnation. Then, you will have a chance of surviving the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation!"


    "However¡­ I can tell that your Dharmic powers are still stuck at the pinnacle mighty figure level." Numinous Treasure frowned slightly.


    "A breakthrough causes too much a stir. If I were to break through in the Heavenly realm, I''m afraid all of the Three Realms would learn of it quickly," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I think it''s better I break through in Green Touring Palace."


    Numinous Treasure''s eyes lit up when he heard that. He said with a smiling nod, "You thought right. This should not be made public! Now, the one who wishes to kill you the most in the Three Realms is Black Lotus. He wishes to snatch your Misty Rain Sword to refine it. He similarly wants to snatch the Qingping Sword. If he misses this chance, he probably will no longer have any other chance. As long as your breakthrough isn''t divulged, we can set up a trap¡­ causing the fiend experts to fall into our grasp."


    "Even if you are still a pinnacle mighty figure, killing you would not be easy since you possess an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure." Numinous Treasure aired his thoughts. "The ones sent out would likely be at the perfected Great Dao level, ones who will be strong against you."


    Qin Yun said respectfully, "I share the same thoughts!"


    Numinous Treasure smiled.


    By making a secret breakthrough without telling anyone, they could ensnare the fiends! Both of them shared the same idea.


    This was a rare opportunity!


    "Hmm."


    Numinous Treasure nodded. "We can take the opportunity to eliminate the fiends at the perfected Great Dao. You can also gain greater merit. Your Misty Rain Sword will also come closer to becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure."


    "Qin Yun, no one knows the might of the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. After all, Bai Ze failed in his previous incarnation and died. Your Misty Rain Sword is an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. If it becomes a Merit Cardinal treasure, your strength will be elevated again, so your chances of transcending the tribulation will increase," said Numinous Treasure. "And to have a Merit Cardinal treasure, the merit required is immense. You once killed Star Destruction that wreaked havoc in countless Small Worlds. He was the strongest in Small Worlds, so the Heavenly Courts and Buddhists could not stop him. He was ranked in the top five when it came to sin in the Three Realms. By killing him, you gained copious amounts of merit.


    "Later, you became the strongest in a Small World and could penetrate the void without array formations stopping you. You swept through the twenty-six fiendish dominions and caused numerous Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions to be taken back. The merit involved was even higher; after all, there are only sixty dominions in the Three Realms.


    "With the great merit from these two deeds, if you were to destroy a perfected Great Dao of the fiends, there is hope of you attaining a Merit Cardinal treasure." The Dao Ancestor looked forward to it.


    Attaining a Merit Cardinal treasure was too difficult.


    For example, when it came to killing fiends.


    A Chaos Godfiend like Wu Zhiqi was stronger than Star Destruction, but the merit gained from killing him was relatively smaller.


    The merit gained did not depend on the fiend''s strength and reputation, but on their sins! Star Destruction''s sins far exceeded most perfected Great Dao existences.


    The merit Qin Yun accrued from his two deeds¡­ was because he became invincible in a Small World. He could sweep through everything and kill Star Destruction. It resulted in him influencing the situation in countless Small Worlds.


    "I will naturally try my best," said Qin Yun.


    "By the way, you did not tell anyone about your breakthrough, right?" asked Numinous Treasure.


    "Master, you and I are the only ones who know of my breakthrough," said Qin Yun.


    "Very good. Continue keeping it a secret. Since we are scheming against the fiends, we have to be careful. You cannot even tell your family," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Yes, Master." Qin Yun answered.


    "As for how we should set up the trap, I will have to think carefully about it," said Numinous Treasure. "Begin your cultivation to complete the breakthrough first."


    "Will the Fiend Ancestor discover the breakthrough in my Dharmic powers?" Qin Yun was somewhat worried.


    "Don''t worry. No one can spy on you while you''re inside Green Touring Palace. Before you leave, I will make the necessary arrangements," said Numinous Treasure with a smile. "I''ll definitely make Black Lotus suffer a setback. Alright, quickly make your breakthrough. You cannot relax when it comes to cultivation. Every increase in strength will increase the hopes of you surviving the Itinerant Immortal tribulations."


    "Yes. I shall take my leave then." Qin Yun immediately left.


    Numinous Treasure watched this scene as his eyes flickered with a strange glow.


    "I really did not make a mistake. This disciple of mine is truly talented. Now, his strength is above his senior sister and he is ranked first among my disciples," said Numinous Treasure inwardly. "The biggest trouble now is his transcending of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. As long as he survives it, he will be the next lord of my Green Touring Palace.


    "Even if I were to leave the Three Realms, my Green Touring Palace''s standing will remain immovable with this disciple of mine." Numinous Treasure was in an extremely good mood.


    It was truly news that comforted him.


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace. In the chamber of Qin Yun''s tiny compound.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat.


    "Time for the breakthrough!" Qin Yun closed his eyes. With a thought, his Essence Soul Dharmic powers immediately fused with the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man. Every wisp of Essence Soul Dharmic powers immediately transformed quantitatively after using the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man as their foundation. His Dharmic powers turned purer as his strength increased rapidly. Wisps of even stronger Dharmic powers arose in him as his Essence Soul, which was comprised of boundless Essence Soul Dharmic powers, also transformed. He was molting into a perfected Great Dao expert.

 644 Half-step Heavenly Dao Realm

    The amount of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies absorbed going from a pinnacle mighty figure to a perfected Great Dao figure was massive. Small Worlds, even up to five of them, could not provide the required Heaven and Earth spiritual energies! Even a breakthrough in the Heavenly realm would result in a huge commotion.


    But in Green Touring Palace, there was an endless stream of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies provided. Breaking through there did not cause any commotion.


    The absorption of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies only stopped after an hour.


    "This feeling sure is magical." Qin Yun opened his eyes, finding his Essence Soul more lively and vigorous. Cultivation also became faster. His Dharmic powers had also strengthened. The same move which was powered by perfected Great Dao Dharmic powers was several times stronger!


    "I should improve and perfect my divine powers and sword moves."


    Qin Yun flipped his hand and produced a black jade bottle. He pulled out the stopper and consumed a drop of Samsara Dew which quickly spread throughout his Essence Soul. As he started feeling a little tipsy, his Essence Soul turned even more vivid as his perceptivity increased.


    Qin Yun had once cultivated in two great divine powers¡ªthe Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes and the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm.


    Since Qin Yun''s insights lay in the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man and not the Great Dao of the Stellar Heavenly Cycle, it prevented those two great divine powers from reaching the phenomenal success stage.


    "Divine powers are in essence the remarkable use of a Great Dao."


    Using the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes as a reference and his own insights in defensive measures, Qin Yun first completed a defensive great divine power, one that was similar to a robe. He gave it a simple name, Azure Cloud Robes. It was the manifestation of the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man into a world so as to protect his body. The robe appeared to be azure-colored and it was weaved by countless threads that contained the profundity of the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    He next created a second great divine power by referencing the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Realm as well as his Intrinsic Flying Sword''s Misty Rain domain. The second great divine power was named the Misty Rain Realm.


    Speaking of which¡­


    The two great divine powers were in no way inferior to the two created by the ancient demons'' Celestial Thearch. However, the Misty Rain Realm provided little aid to Qin Yun. After all, casting the Misty Rain domain through his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was stronger! Instead, it was the Azure Cloud Robes that Qin Yun believed surpassed the Heavenly Cycle Stellar Robes. Furthermore, he was very interested in anything that protected his body.


    In the future, perhaps all he needed was an additional defensive ability to allow him to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations?


    "These two great divine powers are just a crowning touch. My strongest means are still delivered by my Misty Rain Sword," thought Qin Yun. Even the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure believed that he would possess strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm once he solidified his perfected Great Dao. It was all because of his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure!


    "Misty Rain Sword¡­"


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued meditating.


    Every perfected Great Dao existence had a trait they were excellent at. For instance, the King of Myriad Fiends was good at controlling the hearts and minds of others because of his Six Desires Great Dao.


    Qin Yun''s Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man¡­ was best at setting up arrays! Even the Intrinsic Flying Sword he nurtured could naturally split into the three swords of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Back when Pangu first split the heaven from the earth, it resulted in the formation of the Heaven, Earth, and Man realms.


    Concentrating on what he was best at meant half the work with double the results!


    Array formations.


    They could be used defensively, as well as for entrapment and killing!


    With his own accumulated insights and the referencing of the numerous array formations recorded in Green Touring Palace, as well as drawing from the various charms of the Immortal Vanquishing Array, his Misty Rain Array reached an initial stage of success after six hundred years of seclusion in Green Touring Palace.


    "The Misty Rain Sword can be used to protect, entrap, and kill¡­ It''s what I will be relying on to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations and to reign supreme in the Three Realms. Now, it can be considered as me garnering some initial success." Qin Yun smiled before consuming another drop of Samsara Dew. "Next, it''s time to study more Great Dao and infuse them into my Sword Dao, as well as look forward to the day when I figure out the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth, so as to reach the Heavenly Dao realm."


    Qin Yun closed his eyes and attempted to infuse the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    The Seven Stars Great Dao¡­ was the only Great Dao he had insights in at the pinnacle level other than his Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man. Although he had attempted to fuse them together, his Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man was imperfect back then. Now that it was perfected, he could naturally attempt fusion. With the foundation of the past, it was a lot easier this time.


    "The Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man will be the body, while the Seven Stars Great Dao will be the veins." Qin Yun attempted fusion.


    During the fusion process, Qin Yun had chanced upon the insights of a Sword Kinesis Flight art and named it the Seven Stars Evasion Art. It was striking for its speed and unpredictability.


    A new Sword Dao was figured out after spending two centuries.


    Now, his Misty Rain Sword Dao was the fusion of the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man and the Seven Stars Great Dao. It was at least fifty percent stronger than just the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man alone!


    "Qingping Sword!"


    Qin Yun flipped his hand as the Qingping Sword flew out from his sleeve and rested on his knees.


    It contained the evolution of a Chaos world, where Heaven and Earth had been split. It also held endless vibrancy in it.


    "Inside the Qingping Sword, the genesis of Chaos split into Yin and Yang, creating the Heaven and Earth. The Qingping Sword has a complete Yin Yang Great Dao! The Great Dao of Heaven and Great Dao of Earth are present as well. There''s only a portion of the Limitless Great Dao and the Life Great Dao." Qin Yun smiled. "However, a complete Yin Yang Great Dao is very suitable for me."


    Qin Yun continued cultivating.


    ¡­


    Cultivation knew no time. One particular day, Qin Yun opened his eyes.


    "I''m about to undergo my eighth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. It''s time to return." Qin Yun got up and left the cave abode. He had spent nearly a thousand years in seclusion in Green Touring Palace.


    "Whoosh."


    Invisible forces enveloped Qin Yun as he was transported away. Qin Yun did not resist for he was very familiar with the force. It was none other than this master.


    In the main hall.


    Qin Yun appeared out of thin air.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sat on a bed of clouds as he looked at the present Qin Yun whose Dharmic powers were most forceful. They had reached the perfected Great Dao stage.


    "How has your consolidation been after nearly a thousand years of seclusion?" inquired Numinous Treasure.


    "I''ve already figured out various mystic arts, array formations, and killing arts," said Qin Yun respectfully.


    "Well done!" Numinous Treasure laughed. "How''s your ability to hide from the heavenly secrets?"


    Qin Yun laughed.


    After fusing the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, his ability of hiding from the heavenly secrets had improved. Furthermore, with his Intrinsic Flying Sword present, he was able to obfuscate the heavenly secrets.


    "Master, watch." Qin Yun attempted to blur the heavenly secrets to conceal his aura.


    "Oh?" Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun in surprise. He nodded slightly. "Even with you in front of me, all I can do is vaguely sense your strength. Even you were to hide in a Great World, no one in the Three Realms will be able to see through you. However, this is still insufficient."


    With that said, Numinous Treasure waved his hand and threw out a black bead.


    Qin Yun grabbed it immediately.


    "This is an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure," said Numinous Treasure. "It''s something I recently completed refining with a Connate Wonder. There''s no other use for it except to hide from the heavenly secrets. By bringing it with you, the heavenly secrets will be blurred. No one can spy on you."


    "No one? Would even the Fiend Ancestor fail to find me?" Qin Yun turned worried.


    If the Fiend Ancestor could not find him, how was he to deliver him a setback?


    "Haha, although there''s no way to infer your location from the heavenly secrets, there are always dumb methods," said Numinous Treasure with a laugh. "All you need to do is head to a Great World and act according to how you usually would. With the intelligence network the fiends have across the entire Three Realms¡­ it''s still possible to find you if no costs are spared.


    "It will take him greater effort to find you if you hide well, and that will result in him being less suspicious," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    "I prepared this for you." Numinous Treasure threw out a gray cloth sack. "Remember, when you head to any Great World, the first thing to do is to set up a formation! After all, the Fiend Ancestor will be sending a perfected Great Dao enemy. The person in question might appear at any time."


    "Master, don''t worry. I understand." Qin Yun received the gray cloth sack and when he looked at the array formation treasures within, he could not help but be astounded.


    Without any preparations, killing a perfected Great Dao in a one-on-one battle was rather difficult.


    Although he had strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, every figure at the perfected Great Dao had spent a great deal of effort in the aspects of life preservation and escaping.


    But¡­


    If he could set up an array formation ahead of time, allowing the enemy to fall into the trap, the chances of him using his half-step Heavenly Dao realm strength to kill a perfected Great Dao existence were a lot higher.


    "This plan is firstly to weaken the fiends and secondly, to win you an opportunity of gaining immense merit," said Numinous Treasure. "With your strength, there are fewer and fewer opportunities for you to gain immense merit. You must not miss out on any opportunity."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Back when he was invincible in Small Worlds, he could change the situation of the Three Realms and receive immense merit. Furthermore, the areas with the most number of lives in the Three Realms were all found in Small Worlds. Back when Qin Yun changed the situation of the twenty-six dominions, the merit he received left many mighty figures envious. Similarly, Star Destruction, who was once invincible in Small Worlds, had sins that ranked in the top five.


    Becoming a mighty figure did not mean invincibility. It actually made the earning of immense merit very difficult! That was because there were many in the Three Realms who were still stronger than Qin Yun.


    Even now! There were many who were Qin Yun''s equal! There were a few that were close to him in strength as well.


    "I understand, Master," replied Qin Yun.


    "Go on then," said Numinous Treasure.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar and left after transcending the eighth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    Yi Xiao and his family were all worried. After all, eight thousand years had passed! Qin Yun had yet to break through to the perfected Great Dao, which naturally made them anxious. And to keep it a secret, Qin Yun did not even tell his loved ones, afraid that it would leak. Mighty figures were very good at gathering intelligence.


    "Hahaha, it''s been eight thousand years. You have finally left the Heavenly realm."


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body smiled. "I''ve long determined that you can''t hide in the Heavenly realm all the time when faced with the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. You have to go out to seek out opportunities.


    "Oh? Why is his concealment of the heavenly secrets that formidable?


    "All I can see are his karmic lines. He should be in the Huifeng Great World. I can''t tell where exactly he is, however. To be able to hide from the heavenly secrets that well, only a few Heavenly Dao realm figures are capable of doing so. It must be Numinous Treasure acting personally. He sure cherishes this disciple of his. Numinous Treasure is even willing to help his disciple hide from the heavenly secrets when he''s out seeking opportunities."

 645 Fox Immortal

    "It will be quite difficult to find a hidden Qin Yun in the massive Huifeng Great World." The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body sneered. "However, this Qin Yun is known for abhorring evil. As long as he continues his habit of ridding evil¡­ with my fiendish network all across the Three Realms, I''ll definitely be able to sniff him out!


    "This Qin Yun has to die! His Misty Rain Sword will eventually be refined by me.


    "If I gain the powers of another Lotus Seed of Fate, my strength will increase once again."


    The Lotus Seed of Fate he recently obtained from Zhurong had made the Fiend Ancestor experience a drastic increase in strength; however, he had only attained the Heavenly Dao realm later in his cultivation. His accumulations were weaker. He would have been at a disadvantage fighting the Dao Ancestors; but due to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss which augmented him while in the Three Realms, he was at the very least unkillable.


    But once he was forced to leave the Three Realms, he would lose the protection of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Hence, he naturally could not miss the power of the Lotus Seed of Fate embedded inside Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword.


    ******


    Huifeng Great World.


    "Go."


    In midair, Qin Yun threw out a stone array disk. It dived deep underground and immediately generated connections with other areas. Qin Yun could immediately trigger the massive array which was personally refined by the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a single thought.


    "Just as Master said, I should first set up the array in any Great World I step into." Qin Yun smiled. "After the array is set up, I just need to wait for them to fall into the trap."


    With that, Qin Yun left and began ridding the world of evil to accumulate merit.


    Having attained his perfected Great Dao, he only had four thousand years left until his twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation! With such a short period of time left, Qin Yun did not believe that he could cultivate to the Heavenly Dao realm no matter how arrogant he was. After all, the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man suited him the best; yet, he had spent so much time and effort on it. If he were to cultivate in other tougher Great Dao, he was destined to spend even longer.


    Therefore, in the short four thousand years, the most important action he needed to undertake to have any hope of transcending the tribulation was to enhance his Intrinsic Flying Sword to a Merit Cardinal treasure. This was the most obvious way of increasing his strength. Secondly, he needed to constantly improving his Misty Rain Array! But clearly, after reaching a brand new level, any improvements would prove difficult.


    "I will storm through one Great World after another, ridding them of evil to amass merit. The other mighty figures might be afraid of those with powerful backers, but I''m not," thought Qin Yun.


    He was strong enough. He was at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm!


    Furthermore, he was an Itinerant Immortal. The Three Realms knew that Sword Immortal Qin was deranged in this period, so no matter how belligerent and ruthless he acted, the various factions had no intention to fight him.


    ¡­


    The Huifeng Great World was vast.


    Qin Yun traveled the world and attacked whenever he saw unfairness.


    He did not deliberately expose his identity. After all, the more he kept a low profile and the more he concealed himself, the less suspicious the Fiend Ancestor would be. Qin Yun believed that even if the fiends could not find him any time soon, they would definitely be able to find him given time! Furthermore, if it dragged on too long, Qin Yun could always ''accidentally'' allow them to find him.


    Seven years passed in a blink of an eye. Qin Yun arrived in the borders of the Wei Nation.


    "The Wei Nation is considered quite a huge country in the Huifeng Great World. Its territory spans 150,000 kilometers, equal to a hundred of the Great Chang world. But the sovereign is too tyrannical, causing the nation''s people to live in destitution." Dressed in ordinary clothes, Qin Yun walked through the main streets and saw refugees in groups. Their skins were sallow and they were thin. They did not even have shoes to wear. Walking with blackened bare feed and dressed in rags, they walked together with women and children.


    Occasionally, one would collapse to the ground silently, but would be met with indifference by others. Clearly, they were already accustomed to this.


    "A Great World has rich Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. There are no lack of cultivators, so it won''t be difficult to provide food for the people." Qin Yun looked over and could see the resentment auras rising over the Wei Nation. "The Heavenly Courts does not care for this area. As the Daoists, Buddhists, and Fiends are fighting for supremacy here, they have caused the Huifeng Great World to plunge into utter chaos."


    Qin Yun looked at the surrounding refugees as he gently inhaled.


    Invisible forces instantly permeated the refugees around him. Even the ones who had fallen to the ground, and even the one who had just died resumed breathing.


    "I''m no longer hungry."


    "I feel energetic."


    "Why am I alright now?"


    The refugees discovered that they felt better than ever. They were even cured of their ailments. The dead had even revived.


    Life and death was merely a thought.


    "It must be a godly immortal."


    "Thank you, Immortal."


    "Thank you, benevolent immortal."


    The refugees around him all knelt down as they kowtowed in gratitude.


    Qin Yun was just beside them, but the refugees could not see him at all. As long as a mighty figure did not wish for it to happen, no one could see them even if they were standing right beside them.


    "These mortals only wish to live. This Wei Nation''s sovereign¡­" Qin Yun shook his head gently when he suddenly looked up into the distance. He saw two beams of light flying across.


    ¡­


    The two beams of light was a pursuit.


    The fleeing party was a white-dressed woman. Chasing after her was a black-robed Daoist.


    "Go." The black-robed Daoist cast his Dharma treasure from afar, sending eight tokens smashing over. As the white-dressed woman fled, she used two divine swords to fend off the attacks, but missed one. One of the tokens struck her body.


    She plummeted to the grasslands below. She immediately stood up, but could not stop herself from coughing out blood.


    "Haha, demon spawn, you won''t escape." The black-robed Daoist roared with laughter.


    The white-dressed woman was beautiful; just one look from her could move any heart. The black-robed Daoist could not help but be enticed by her. "As expected of the legendary nine-tailed fox. Your charms are indeed extraordinary. It''s no wonder His Majesty is so obsessed with you."


    The woman carefully controlled the two swords to surround her. She glared at the black-robed Daoist. "It''s still a question as to who dies today."


    "Are you still trying to sound tough at this moment in time?" The black-robed Daoist scoffed. "As a fox demon, you entered the imperial palace and bewitched His Majesty before attempting to assassinate him! This is a crime punishable by death. I believe you know what awaits you if I were to capture you."


    "The sovereign is tyrannical and leaves his people in destitution. He wholeheartedly worships your Black Wind Fiend Sect and has captured us demons without any regard¡­ Since he won''t allow us demons to live, what''s wrong with me taking his life?" said the woman coldly.


    "For what your Fox Immortal Island has done, His Majesty has sent his men to destroy it," said the black-robed Daoist with a laugh. "As for a mastermind like you, His Majesty has insisted that you be caught. Capturing you would be a meritorious act for me, but¡­ I can spare you and let you leave. I''ll pretend as if I have never met you."


    "You will let me go?" The woman frowned.


    "Yes."


    The Daoist gave a sinister laugh as a lewd glint flashed in his eyes. "Weren''t you trying to bewitch His Majesty? Why don''t you try bewitching me and spend the night with me. I''ll pretend as though I never met you and allow you to leave. How about that?"


    "Dream on." The woman scoffed.


    "You are not my match. Either you die or you spend a night with me. Make your choice," said the Daoist as he stroked his beard. According to what he knew, the sovereign had yet to do a thing to the nine-tailed fox immortal before he was met with the assassination. In his rage, he had ordered for her to be captured.


    The Daoist thought, "If I were to capture her, it would only benefit His Majesty. If I were to capture her alive and hide her, she would be me mine. A nine-tailed fox immortal is very rare."


    "I don''t have much patience," said the Daoist. "Would a fox immortal like you have scruples about spending a night with me?"


    "Hmph!"


    The woman harrumphed coldly as she immediately transformed into a beam of light in a bid to escape again.


    "So it appears you are acquiescing after having refused my first overture!" The Daoist''s expression darkened as he waved his hand, sending out the eight tokens again.


    "This Daoist¡­" The woman was anxious. "I can only risk it. Either he dies or I die!"


    She had the intention to risk her life.


    The Daoist had a compassionate look in his eyes, but his attacks showed none of that. He was bent on gravely injuring her to capture her alive.


    "Swoosh!"


    Suddenly, a sword tore through the sky.


    "Who is it!?" The Daoist''s expression changed. The sword flash was extremely sharp as he hurriedly controlled the eight tokens to defend him as a massive array. The array sealed the area in an impregnable defense.


    Pew!


    However, the extremely sharp sword beam easily tore through his array formation and penetrated him. He widened his eyes as he roared, "The Black Wind Sect will not let you off." With that said, he quickly breathed his last while his corpse plummeted to the ground.


    The woman was somewhat astounded. She believed that she needed to risk her life in despair, but this sudden turn of events had happened.


    She carefully looked over.


    A gray-clothed youth flew over. The sword beam in midair drew out a circle before returning to the youth''s scabbard on his back.


    "Thank you for helping, Dao Brother," said the woman in gratitude.


    "I was impressed when I heard that you attempted to assassinate the sovereign, so I took action," said Qin Yun. "I never expected a human Daoist to be riddled with such sins, while a demon like you has so much merit."


    However, the woman was filled with gratitude. "I''m Qing Shuang. Dao Brother, might I know who you are¡­"

 646 The Dao of Yin Yang

    "You may call me¡­" Qin Yun paused for a moment before finishing his sentence, "Daoist Feng!"


    "Daoist Feng?"


    Qing Shuang had never heard of Daoist Feng before, but the Huifeng Great World was massive. It was not surprising to have never heard of such an expert. She said, "Dao Brother Feng, you just killed a Black Wind Fiend Sect disciple. They will definitely investigate. It''s best we leave quickly. If you don''t mind, you can have a seat at one of my villas and have a drink?"


    As he looked at the fox immortal, Qin Yun had some thoughts. He agreed with a nod.


    "Dao Brother, please follow me." The white-dressed woman beamed in delight. After all, Daoist Feng had saved her life. She naturally knew to show her gratitude.


    Immediately, the both of them flew off.


    The fox immortal had fled to this region because she had a villa nearby.


    After all, she had cultivated to the Skyimmortal realm. Having a few villas was very normal.


    ¡­


    In an exquisite courtyard, there were a few tall bamboo planted.


    Qin Yun and Qing Shuang sat opposite each other, with a table filled with sumptuous dishes and alcohol in between them.


    "There is no way for me to thank you for saving me, Dao Brother Feng. All I can do is first host you with this table of food and alcohol," said Qing Shuang with a smile.


    "Nice culinary skills." As Qin Yun drank the wine and ate the food, he said with a smile, "I only saved you in passing. There''s no need to take it to heart. To be honest, you should be commended for your courage in attempting to assassinate the Wei Nation''s sovereign. However, it was quite a silly act."


    "Silly?" Qing Shuang was taken aback as she nodded. "Yes, the Wei Nation''s sovereign is very careful. I thought my aura concealment was brilliant enough, but an expert by the sovereign''s side had long seen through me. My actions were indeed laughable and pointless. I eventually managed to barely flee thanks to my talent and at the cost of some damage to my core foundations."


    A nine-tailed fox had a mystic art for fleeing.


    However, moments after damaging her core foundation to escape the palace, she encountered the black-robed Daoist. Unable to use the fleeing mystic art twice in a short period of time, she despaired.


    Thankfully, she had met Qin Yun.


    "That''s not what I''m saying," said Qin Yun."What I mean is that killing the Wei Nation''s sovereign would be useless."


    "Oh?" Qing Shuang was taken aback.


    "The Wei Nation''s sovereign was able to inherit the throne because he cultivated to the Skyimmortal realm. Would he be dumb?" asked Qin Yun. "Such tyranny and unbridled actions should cover him in grave sins. Why would a Skyimmortal like him not be afraid of the sins? Can''t you tell?"


    Qing Shuang said, "I know that he serves the Black Wind Fiend Sect and has cultivated in the fiendish ways. He''s probably not a Skyimmortal but a Skyfiend!"


    It was still fresh on her mind how the Wei Nation''s sovereign had released his tumultuous fiendish Dharmic powers.


    "Yes, he is a Skyfiend. As for the present Wei Nation¡­ it has long been fully infiltrated by the Black Wind Fiend Sect and has become one of its territories," said Qin Yun. "Regardless of who becomes the new sovereign, they will continue serving the Black Wind Fiend Sect. As long as the entire Wei Nation remains a dominion ruled by the fiends, the people will remain in destitution.


    "The true owner of the Wei Nation is the Black Wind Fiend Sect, and not the sovereign," said Qin Yun. "To truly change the Wei Nation, one has to free it from the Black Wind Fiend Sect''s rule. So tell me, is assassinating a sovereign useful?"


    "The Black Wind Fiend Sect is in full control of the Wei Nation?" Qing Shuang was taken aback. "The Wei Nation was not like this in the past. Just one sovereign submitted to the Black Wind Fiend Sect and the entire Wei Nation is under its control?"


    "You will know in the future."


    Qin Yun laughed and did not elaborate.


    With his strength, just one look at the Wei Nation was enough to give him a full understanding of it. He could even tell many of an ordinary mighty figure''s secrets if they stood in front of him.


    "What was the sword art you used against the enemy just now?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "It''s an Yin Yang sword art," said Qing Shuang with a smile. "I obtained this sword art by mere chance. However, I''m just too inferior to you."


    "Can you carefully demonstrate this sword art for me to see?" requested Qin Yun.


    "Sure."


    Qing Shuang thought nothing of it. She immediately waved her hand as two divine swords flew out.


    They flew in the courtyard in midair, with Yin Yang interweaving, turning completely unfathomable.


    As Qin Yun watched carefully, he nodded slightly.


    He was now a perfected Great Dao existence. Further cultivation involved him figuring out new Great Dao to fuse into his Sword Dao. This would constantly accumulate until he reached the Heavenly Dao realm one day. As the Qingping Sword contained a complete Great Dao¡ªthe Yin Yang Great Dao¡ªQin Yun was currently focused on cultivating the Yin Yang Great Dao. Although he had not cultivated it for long, his realm was already more brilliant than the fox immortal''s.


    Upon seeing Qing Shuang demonstrate her Yin Yang Dao''s sword art, he could not help but feel the itch to demonstrate.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh!" The two divine sword landed in Qing Shuang''s sleeves as she said with a smile, "It was only some mediocre techniques. Please excuse my embarrassment."


    "Your sword art is a sword art from the Yin Yang Dao. I also cultivate in Yin Yang Dao sword arts," said Qin Yun with a smile. "That sword moves you demonstrated simply need minor changes to drastically increase their strength."


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    Two Sword Qi flew out.


    The Sword Qi interwove in flight and demonstrated the same sword art that the fox immortal had demonstrated. However, it was clearly more brilliant. Only slight modifications were made to its foundations. There was no need for greater insight into the Great Dao; yet, its strength had increased considerably.


    "This sword art." Qing Shuang''s eyes lit up.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something as he looked outside.


    He saw a figure flying from afar towards the courtyard he was in.


    Qing Shuang also quickly sensed it. She looked up and smiled. "Uncle Lang''er."


    The figure descended and it was a handsome man in a silver robe.


    "Hmph, our entire fox clan has to leave Fox Immortal Island because of your assassination attempt. You were tasked with the important responsibility of assassination, but now that you have failed, you are here, hooking up with a human Daoist and sending flirting signals." The silver-robed man was enraged.


    "Uncle Lang''er, I was pursued by a Black Wind Fiend Sect Daoist after my failed assassination. It was this Dao Brother Feng who saved my life," said Qing Shuang immediately.


    "Enough, let''s not talk about this." The man''s expression was cold. "You brought with you a treasured Dao talisman for the assassination but failed. You have turned our sacrifice into a joke! And now, we are facing the pursuit of the Wei Nation''s sovereign! You have truly disappointed the entire clan."


    Qing Shuang fell silent.


    She knew that the clan had made many preparations.


    "The treasure the clan gave me to conceal my aura and obfuscate the heavenly secrets was completely useless. The first day I met the sovereign, an expert beside him had seen through me," continued Qing Shuang.


    "That was a treasure the clan head personally exchanged for. You have a nine-tailed fox bloodline and are innately good at metamorphosis. How can a sovereign have people beside him to see through your disguise?" The silver-robed man scoffed. "Alright, your excuses should be left to the clan head. If the clan head believes you, you can escape punishment; otherwise, you will have to pay Myriad Calamity Grotto a visit."


    "Uncle Lang''er, I didn''t lie." Qing Shuang was gripped with anxiety, but she did not dare return.


    The demons were ruthless to outsiders, but so were they internally.


    "Are you feeling guilty conscious? Do you not dare to return? Hmph! Then, I''ll capture you and bring you back." The man immediately stretched out his arm as three silver chains flew out from his hand in a bid to restrain Qing Shuang.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    The divine sword behind Qin Yun''s back flew out and split into two.


    The two sword flashes were unfathomable and unpredictable. The silver-robed man''s expression changed. "Daoist!" Although he his three silver chains immediately faced off the two sword flashes, it failed to stop it completely. The two sword flashes struck him and he was sent flying out the courtyard. He flew more than a thousand feet as the blood he spewed out filled the sky.


    "To capture someone in front of me? Do you think I''m blind?" said Qin Yun coldly.


    "Daoist, how dare you interfere in my Fox Immortal Island''s internal matters?" raged the silver-robed man.


    "Scram! If not, you will not simply be sent flying next time. Instead, my Yin Yang swords will slash you into three," said Qin Yun coldly.


    The silver-robed man clenched his teeth as he glared at Qing Shuang. "Qing Shuang, are you sure you want to betray the clan and not return with me?"


    "Don''t talk about betrayal." Qin Yun curled his lips. "Didn''t you also have a younger brother that had visited Myriad Calamity Grotto?"


    The silver-robed man was astounded.


    How did he know!?


    "Your Fox Immortal Island has more than three hundred Skyimmortals," said Qin Yun. "Ever since the current clan head took up the position, thirty-eight Skyimmortals have entered the Myriad Calamity Grotto."


    "They had all committed wrongs and were being punished," said the silver-robed man. Following that, he said angrily, "Who exactly are you? How are you aware of the punished Skyimmortals of my Fox Immortal Island over the past tens of thousands of years?"


    "It''s only a mere Fox Immortal Island. It''s nothing in the Huifeng Great World." Qin Yun scoffed. "However, I happened to discover a secret of your Fox Immortal Island. Among the thirty-eight Skyimmortals that entered the Myriad Calamity Grotto, two of them died. Thirty-six of them remain alive, but to be honest, they are almost no different from being dead since their Essence Souls are being controlled. Your fox clan''s clan head sure is talented. He actually succeeded in cultivating in the Mental Demon lineage''s Dharmic formulation."


    "Mental Demon Skyfiend? Are you saying that the clan head is a Mental Demon Skyfiend?" The silver-robed man was astonished. "The thirty-six Skyimmortals are being controlled?"


    "The Huifeng Great World is filled with fiendish cultivators which I usually can''t be bothered to deal with. I''m doing this on account of how pitiful your entire clan is to not realize that you are under the machinations of the clan head." Qin Yun scoffed. "If you don''t believe me, let your clan elders grab any of the thirty-six Skyimmortals and probe their Essence Souls to learn the truth."


    "Dao Brother Feng, are you speaking the truth?" Qing Shuang''s body turned morbidly cold when she heard that. If she were to return to end up being punished to enter Myriad Calamity Grotto, would she be controlled as well?


    "Don''t you make such alarmist statements!" The silver-robed man refused to believe it.


    "Report it to the clan elders and your clan elders will immediately know upon investigation," said Qin Yun.


    "No, it''s impossible. Brother¡­" The silver-robed man''s expression was nasty as he carefully recalled. He discovered that the thirty-six Skyimmortals, including his younger brother, aligned themselves with the clan head after their exit from Myriad Calamity Grotto. It strengthened the clan head''s authority internally, making him far greater than the three clan elders. "There has indeed been changes in how my brother does things. But one can change, but to have thirty-six change together in loyal defiance to the clan head is indeed weird. Logically speaking, they should be resentful towards the clan head after their suffering. Could it be¡­ No, impossible!"


    Although he was flustered, the silver-robed man continued glaring at Qin Yun angrily. He roared, "If I discover that you were lying, my Fox Immortal Island will absolutely not let this matter rest."


    With that said, he left as a beam of light.


    Such a major matter needed immediate investigation. This was something that could shake Fox Immortal Island at its core.


    Qin Yun sat down and continued drinking the alcohol. As for Qing Shuang, she stood there, her expressions changing repeatedly. What Qin Yun had said had left her shaken.


    "Dao Brother Feng." Qing Shuang looked at Qin Yun and asked seriously, "Why are you helping me?"

 647 Intelligence Ne

    She was not dumb.


    As a genius of Fox Immortal Island, she was even considered absolutely intelligent. This mysterious Daoist Feng had saved her life and fended off a Fox Immortal Island expert. He had even mentioned a huge problem that was stirring in Fox Immortal Island! All of this was to help her, as well as Fox Immortal Island.


    "Why am I helping you?" Qin Yun drank the wine and glanced at Qing Shuang. He said with a laugh, "Would you believe me that because of your impressive talent and your cultivation of sword arts which happen to use the same Yin Yang Dao as mine, I suddenly have the intention of taking you in as a disciple?"


    Qing Shuang immediately showed a look of delight when she heard him. She plopped to her knees and said, "Greetings Master!"


    The demons were more direct than humans.


    With someone so powerful before her, she obviously had to cozy up to him!


    "Haha, from this day forth, you are my disciple," said Qin Yun with a laugh. He flipped his hand as a purple Dao talisman appeared in his palm. "Carry this Dao talisman with you. It can protect you.Even if a late-stage Skyimmortal expert were to attack you, it would still be able to fend them off for a moment."


    "Thank you." Qing Shuang obediently accepted the gift bestowed by her master. She looked at the purple Dao talisman in delight. It could fend off late-stage Skyimmortal experts?


    "Qing Shuang, you immediately accepted my suggestion of being my disciple. Aren''t you afraid¡­ that your master is too weak?" asked Qin Yun.


    "I wouldn''t dare say anything else, but I obtained the Yin Yang sword art by chance. After so many years of cultivation, no one on Fox Immortal Island has managed to guide me. Yet, with just a short demonstration from me, you were able to modify my sword art in several places, causing it to increase in strength," said Qing Shuang. "Clearly, Master''s insights into the Yin Yang Dao sword arts are far higher than mine."


    "Yes, my Yin Yang Dao sword art has only recently reached the late-stage Skyimmortal realm," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It should still be sufficient to teach you."


    "Late-stage Skyimmortal realm?" Qing Shuang was astounded.


    The Dao talisman was a one-use item. For it to be able to fend off a late-stage Skyimmortal expert made it extremely valuable.


    A true late-stage Skyimmortal expert was considered quite a powerhouse in a dominion. Many major sects had more than ten thousand Skyimmortals, but there would only be a hundred plus at the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm, with only one or two late-stage Skyimmortals! For instance, Fox Immortal Island had a long heritage, but only four had reached the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm. As for late-stage Skyimmortals? Fox Immortal Island did not dare offend them!


    Late-stage Skyimmortals could be the sect master of any top sect in any Great World!


    "Haha." Qin Yun could not help but laugh when he saw his disciple''s astounded look.


    "I didn''t lie. I only began studying the Yin Yang Great Dao after attaining a perfected Great Dao. Now, I''m not even at the half-step Golden Immortal realm when it comes to the Yin Yang Great Dao. It can only be considered a late-stage Skyimmortal realm," thought Qin Yun.


    He took in disciples because other than ridding evil to amass merit, he still needed to cultivate!


    Now that he was focusing on the Yin Yang Great Dao, teaching a genius disciple the Dao of Yin Yang was also a form of honing and practice.


    Of course, he had chosen Qing Shuang because her talents were sufficiently high. As a nine-tailed fox, it was indeed impressive for her to cultivate to the Skyimmortal realm in less than a hundred years. On the other hand, she had accrued a lot of merit! He had saved her and killed the black-robed Daoist because of her immense merit. He could tell at a glance what the fox immortal had undergone the past hundred years.


    She was a kindhearted fox immortal and Qin Yun thought highly of cultivators who did good.


    "Master, when will you start teaching me sword arts?" Qing Shuang asked immediately.


    "Little fox, you sure are anxious," said Qin Yun. "After we are done eating and drinking, we can set off. I can slowly teach you along the way."


    "Yes," replied Qing Shuang.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun led Qing Shuang as he continued traveling across the Wei Nation. As he taught her sword arts, they went everywhere.


    On the second day, they arrived at a monastery.


    "A perfectly fine monastery, but it is being occupied by evil while wreaking havoc to an area," said Qin Yun coldly. By the side, Qing Shuang had slightly changed her looks into that of an ordinary azure-dressed girl. Her original looks were overly mesmerizing, to the point that she could cause a Skyfiend sovereign to turn infatuated with her. In fact, despite trying to keep her charm under wraps, she remained a young beauty. After all, as a nine-tailed fox, she was born beautiful.


    Qin Yun was dressed like a scion with a sword by his waist.


    "Master, this place receives a lot of incense donations. Although this fiend is up to diabolical deeds, countless mortals aren''t aware of the truth. They do not know that fiends have entrenched themselves in this monastery," said Qing Shuang. She was a Skyimmortal after all and could tell that in the monastery''s backyard, which did not entertain devotees, there was an underground chamber filled with corpses that formed a pool of blood. Many mortal fiendish cultivators were cultivating in there.


    There were only three at the Essence Soul realm. The rest were mortal fiendish cultivators, but they were enough to plague an area.


    "Destroy!"


    Qin Yun pointed his finger into the distance.


    Invisible Sword Qi tore through the three fiendcelestials'' glabellas, killing them instantly. As for the Connate level fiendish cultivators, all of them were maimed of their Dharmic powers. Killing mortals was still too troublesome. Although Qin Yun could easily withstand the karma at his realm, there was no need to do so. Maiming them of their Dharmic powers resulted in lesser effects. Furthermore, maiming them was an even more terrifying punishment than death.


    This was because there were a large number of devotees outside!


    "Boom!" A more terrifying Sword Qi collapsed the entire monastery, revealing the underground chamber and the massive number of corpses and the blood pool.


    "What''s happening?"


    "What''s that?"


    The monastery had numerous devotees. It was a Great World after all and most mortals cultivated. Although these devotees had yet to reach the Essence Soul realm, there were a few who had reached the Connate realm.


    "There are so many corpses."


    "These fiends have been cultivating with a pool of blood? How many lives have they harmed?"


    "There are fiendcelestials! Three of them, but they are all dead. The fiendish cultivators have all been maimed of their Dharmic powers!" The stronger devotees rapidly captured the fiendish cultivators, and in a rage, the devotees smashed these fiendish cultivators into meat pulp.


    Although the Wei Nation served the Black Wind Fiend Sect, it only began with the incumbent sovereign.


    The Wei Nation citizens still believed in Daoism or Buddhism. The Black Wind Fiend Sect would need a long time to fully penetrate the population.


    "Let''s go," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, Master," replied Qing Shuang.


    Qin Yun and Qing Shuang left on a cloud. While flying, Qin Yun frowned slightly into the distance.


    "Master?" Qing Shuang was puzzled.


    "Nothing." Qin Yun did not elaborate as he sighed wistfully. "What a bunch of good-for-nothings! I''ve already informed them of Fox Immortal Island''s Clan Head''s background ahead of time, yet the clan head was still able to turn the tables on them! Fox Immortal Island has fractured into two!"


    ¡­


    "Darn it. I was planning on slowly infiltrating them and only when I held sufficient powerful would I control all the Skyimmortals in Fox Immortal Island, making them my slaves. But my plans were brought ahead. More than half the Skyimmortals fled! I only managed to take control of a hundred Skyimmortals." Fox Immortal Island''s Clan Head sat on a throne as a huge group of Skyimmortals stood beneath him.


    A tied Skyimmortal was kneeling there and he was none other than "Uncle Lang''er."


    He was in deep despair at that moment.


    "Clan Head, I''m willing to submit to you, please spare my life!" shouted Uncle Lang''er.


    "Lang''er, how did you know that I cultivated in the Mental Demon lineage?" The clan head glared at him. "How do you know of so many secrets of mine?"


    "It was a human Daoist named Daoist Feng! He saved Qing Shuang and told me about you," said Lang''er hurriedly with intense desires to live on.


    "Daoist Feng? He knows about me?" Fox Immortal Island Clan Head frowned.


    ¡­


    Huifeng Great World.


    In a study room.


    A white-haired, white-robed elder with a kind amiable look sat there. He was flipping through large amounts of dockets. He was Patriarch Mental Demon who struck fear into the Daoists and Buddhists of the Three Realms. Although Patriarch Mental Demon had the strength of a pinnacle Great Dao, the threat he posed to the Daoists, Buddhists and various factions was no less than a perfected Great Dao.


    He had been tasked by the Fiend Ancestor to seek out Qin Yun''s identity in the Huifeng Great World.


    All sorts of intelligence was gathered in front of him.


    "A mysterious man obliterated Bone Fiend Mountain in the Chun Nation borders?" Patriarch Mental Demon read the detailed report and nodded slightly. "He has strength which is at least the late-stage Skyimmortal realm. With such strength and a mysterious background, his modus operandi does resemble Qin Yun''s. Set it as B."


    "Square Immortal Island had a swordsman slay demons? Seems ordinary. Designate it as D."


    "A mysterious Daoist Feng killed a Black Wind Fiend Sect disciple and saved a nine-tailed fox. His strength is suspected to be at the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm. He even knew that Fox Immortal Island''s Clan Head was cultivating in the Mental Demon lineage? He even knows which Skyimmortals were under control? To know that much, it''s either a coincidence or a mighty figure. Designate it as B."


    Patriarch Mental Demon flipped through all sorts of intelligence reports gathered from all across the Huifeng Great World.


    "Now, there are nine targets that are designated B! There are twenty-eight Cs and 1003 Ds. That Sword Immortal Qin might be among them." Patriarch Mental Demon was very collected and very patient.

 648 Bai

    In the following days, Qin Yun led Qing Shuang across the Wei Nation and would occasionally take action against fiends. The Wei Nation''s populace were living in misery and, with the Black Wind Fiend Sect permeating the nation, the number of fiends increased.


    As they occasionally took action, intelligence on them would also be sent to Patriarch Mental Demon.


    "This Daoist Feng hasn''t changed much, but the woman beside him has been changing. The woman is skilled in sword kinesis arts¡­ It''s highly likely that she''s the transformation of the nine-tailed fox." Patriarch Mental Demon constantly searched and gathered information. "However, Daoist Feng and the nine-tailed fox appear seemingly at random. They suddenly appear somewhere and quickly depart. It''s hard to prove if he''s Qin Yun.


    "If we launch an investigation by searching through space-time in his direction¡­ it would alert Daoist Feng if he were really Qin Yun." Patriarch Mental Demon knew this well.


    These suspected individuals needed proof.


    However, they were not to alert Qin Yun while acquiring the proof!


    Once they alerted him¡­


    Qin Yun could instantly tear through space-time and return to the Heavenly realm. Not only would Patriarch Mental Demon fail to accrue any meritorious service, he would even be at fault!


    "The plans should unfold slowly. I''ll find Qin Yun without alerting him." Patriarch Mental Demon was still rather confident.


    ******


    A few months passed in a blink of an eye.


    "Master, we have arrived at the Wei Nation''s capital." High in the sky, Qing Shuang informed her master while looking at the massive city. She had become increasingly more impressed with Qin Yun over time.


    She felt that her master, Daoist Feng, was strong, but so was his ability at teaching! She would be enlightened every time he taught her something and, in the past few months, her strength had increased by leaps and bounds. She felt that she was close to the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm.


    "What a huge city," Qin Yun marveled with a nod. It was a nation with a dominion spanning 150,000 kilometers after all. The more cultivators there were, the more extraordinary the capital was. The number of mortals living there exceeded a hundred million while the Skyimmortals in the city numbered in the thousands.


    "Let''s enter the city."


    They directed the clouds down and entered through the east gates.


    As there were many cultivators, it was common to see people land at the city gates on clouds. Not only did the guards think nothing of it, they even treated Qin Yun and Qing Shuang warmly.


    "Mighty figure, the most famous restaurant in Wei Nation is the Eight Immortals Restaurant. Legends say that the Immortals of the Eight Caves once demonstrated their means here and had eaten the dishes served here," said Qing Shuang. "Of course, the reason why the Eight Immortals Restaurant is so famous in the city has to do with its excellent culinary skills."


    "Let''s go and have a try." Qin Yun smiled.


    Qing Shuang laughed as she covered her mouth. Having been with her master for months, she long knew that her master enjoyed eating and drinking.


    Good food and drink! She was always thinking of ways to bring joy to her master by offering them to him.


    ¡­


    Eight Immortals Restaurant was not large and it served a limited number of customers a day and the price to eat there was naturally high. When Qin Yun and Qing Shuang arrived, there were no seats available, but since Qing Shuang was not one to care about wealth, she purchased seats from a customer. Of course, it was only in the main dining area of the restaurant. The better and more private ones¡­ were reserved for the wealthy and powerful of the Wei Nation.


    Although they only had a table in the main dining area, the environment was excellent. There were trickling streams that naturally separated the tables.


    "It''s no wonder they are so famous." Qin Yun marveled when he tasted the freshness of the soup he drank. To become the most famous restaurant in a capital, culinary skill was most important.


    "They are most famous for their eight flavors. I have ordered all eight flavors, but it will take some time before they serve them," said Qing Shuang.


    The duo ate as they chatted.


    Unbeknown to them, in a private room on the second floor, a man in regal gown was resting on the railings while looking down. He was enticed by Qing Shuang when he swept the area.


    "Oh?" The regal-gowned man''s eyes lit up.


    Qing Shuang had transformed into what seemed like a beautiful girl from a humble family. However, the man had a sharp eye. He instantly saw the mesmerizing charm hidden deep in Qing Shuang. It left him itching.


    "What a beautiful demoness. She would be even more redoubtable if she were to cultivate in mesmerization arts. None of my harem can compare with this demoness." The man smiled as he immediately sent a voice transmission to his subordinate.


    "Go, ''make sure'' you invite the azure-dressed woman with a sword by her waist up here," instructed the man via voice transmission.


    "Yes."


    A guard immediately complied.


    "Your Highness wants me to make sure she is invited up? Then, I have to do it!" The guard went down to Qin Yun''s and Qing Shuang''s table.


    "Greetings, Lady."


    The guard said with a smile, "My master wishes to acquaint himself with you. He is upstairs, and I ask for you to not reject my master''s invitation."


    Qin Yun drank and ate by the side with a smile. He did not say a word.


    Over the past few months, he had long known of his disciple''s "charm." The change in her looks only prevented mortals and weaker entities from seeing her true form, but those that were sufficiently powerful would experience an invisible form of attraction. Even the Wei Nation''s sovereign and the black-robed Skyimmortal Daoist who had pursued her were affected.


    Of course, to those of a sufficiently high realm, the influence was weaker.


    For instance, late-stage Skyimmortal experts were not affected at all.


    "Lady, please follow me." Noticing Qing Shuang ignore him, he could not help but reach out his hand to grab at Qing Shuang''s wrist. He planned on taking her up by force.


    "Scram!" Qing Shuang immediately flicked her sleeve when she saw him make a physical move.


    A wave swept through the guard as he flew backward involuntarily with a bang. He crashed through a few tables, shattering the tableware in the process. He finally slammed into a guardrail in the hall as an array formation barrier appeared to put a stop to his ballistic flight. However, the hall was already in a complete mess.


    "Oh no."


    "Quickly get away from them." The customers immediately hid in a corner while some watched in interest from afar.


    There were thousands of Skyimmortals in the Wei Nation, so it was common to see powerful cultivators clash. They were long accustomed to it.


    "What? I have long cultivated to the third firmament Essence Soul realm, but I was thrown back by a mere flick of her hand?" The guard held his chest as blood trickled from the side of his mouth. He looked in disbelief at the azure-dressed woman.


    "How dare you act with such impunity in the Wei Nation''s capital!?" An angry bellow sounded.


    A few figures flew down from the second floor.


    Leading them was none other than the man in a regal gown. He had several subordinates beside him.


    Standing beside the man was a blue-robed elder. He said with a sneer, "I never expected my Wei Nation to produce another Skyimmortal I''m unaware of. However, even a Skyimmortal has to abide by the Wei Nation''s rules when in its capital. How dare you bully¡­ the Third Prince''s guard?"


    "Third Prince?" many people exclaimed as they looked to the regal-gowned man.


    Among the many princes in the Wei Nation, the most famous ones were Eighteenth Prince and the Third Prince because both of them were at the Skyimmortal realm! According to the Wei Nation''s rules¡­ one had to reach the Skyimmortal realm to be qualified to inherit the throne. Of course, the incumbent sovereign was still in power, and his abdication would be thousands of years into the future.


    At present, the Third Prince and Eighteen Prince had already amassed a large number of experts under them.


    "It''s so rare to have such good food to eat, but someone has to spoil my mood." Qin Yun sighed and put down his wine cup. There was no way for him to continue eating with this development.


    In fact, Qin Yun was not angry.


    On the one hand, he had come to the capital to resolve the Wei Nation''s situation and save countless people from misery. On the other hand, it was also to use himself as bait!


    The Wei Nation had all sorts of people. If he were to resolve the Wei Nation''s situation, he was bound to gain the attention of others. It was very likely for him to be discovered by the fiends! With the Fiend Ancestor''s means, it was not difficult for him to determine his identity. That way, it would not be long before a perfected Great Dao fiend expert was sent to assassinate him! He had long set up a trap and used himself as bait. He was waiting for the fish to bite!


    Stirring up trouble in the capital made it easy for the fiends to notice him.


    "It''s rare for my master to find a restaurant like this, but you have ended up spoiling his mood." Qing Shuang stood up and shouted at the Third Prince and company. "Scram!"


    "Master?" The Third Prince''s and the blue-robed elder''s hearts jolted.


    "This woman is at the Skyimmortal realm, but she calls that man master?"


    "What kind of strength would he be, considering he''s a master to a Skyimmortal?"


    "How dare you act so belligerently in spite of knowing you''re speaking to the Third Prince?"


    Although the Third Prince and company were ordered to scram, they did not turn angry; instead, they turned more wary.

 649 Coming From All Corners

    Just as a battle was imminent, a white-dressed woman fluttered down from Eight Immortals Restaurant. She frowned slightly and lightly shouted, "Yun Cong, why are you stirring trouble at my place?"


    "Aunt." The Third Prince immediately bowed humbly. "I was being rash. Please don''t take it to heart."


    "So what if I take it to heart? Would you, the high and mighty Third Prince, care?" said the white-dressed woman coldly.


    "Aunt, you must be joking. I''ll visit you personally tomorrow and offer you reparations," said Third Prince as he shot a glance at his subordinates beside him. They immediately left Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    The moment he was out of Eight Immortals Restaurant, Third Prince''s expression turned cold.


    "Investigate who that woman is, as well as her master!" Third Prince instructed. "To dare act so arrogantly in front of me, they had better have the strength or background to back it up. If not, they will know the price of offending me."


    "Yes," replied the blue-robed elder respectfully.


    ¡­


    Inside Eight Immortals Restaurant, Qing Shuang secretly sent Qin Yun a voice transmission. "Master, this woman is the owner of Eight Immortals Restaurant. She''s also Princess Wei Ran of the royal family. She is a disciple of Fairy He Xiangu of the Eight Immortals. However, now that the Wei Nation serves the Black Wind Fiend Sect¡­ This Princess Wei Ran has found herself quite isolated among the royal family. However, she has a backer and she''s a fifth firmament Skyimmortal. Even if she has been ostracized, no one wishes to offend her."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun was enlightened. He looked at Princess Wei Ran and secretly nodded. "She has a Merit Glow; that''s not bad."


    Among the three Daoist lineages, two of the lineages were very strict on their disciples! It was normal for Princess Wei Ran to have Merit Glow protecting her. Instead, it was Qin Yun''s Green Touring Palace who had both the good and bad mixed in it.


    "I apologize on his behalf for a conflict between juniors," said the white-dressed woman politely. "Fellow Daoists, if you don''t mind, you can come up with me and allow me to play a good host. The both of you can also have a taste of my Eight Immortals Restaurant''s culinary skills."


    "Haha, it''s fine as long as there''s good food and drink." Qin Yun got up with a laugh. Qing Shuang followed beside him.


    Qin Yun still intended to take certain actions in the Wei Nation''s capital.


    By doing so, he could attract the attention of the fiends!


    Of course, if the fiends did not discover his identity, he could always wait till the next time!


    ******


    Wei Nation''s capital. Royal Palace.


    The sovereign was slumped in his throne as he watched dancers parading themselves in the hall beneath him. As he drank alcohol, he watched expressionlessly. The dancing maidens were all extremely nervous and did not dare slack off in any way. Everyone knew how tyrannical the sovereign who was sitting high above them was! He was a true devil that could wipe them out if they accidentally crossed him.


    "Your Majesty." A voice sounded as a red-robed bald Daoist walked in with big strides.


    "Supremacy." The guards in the hall were extremely reverent. The Daoist''s standing in the royal palace was extremely high, with him only second to the sovereign.


    "Uncle-Master." With a wine cup in one hand, the sovereign immediately stood up. He walked down the throne with a smile and waved his hand. Immediately, the dancing maidens, the accompaniment musicians, maidservants, and guards retreated, leaving only the sovereign and the Supremacy in the hall.


    "Your Majesty, haven''t you always been wanting to capture that nine-tailed fox?" said the red-robed Daoist with a chuckle.


    "Uncle-Master, do you have good news?" The sovereign''s eyes lit up.


    "Yes. I saw through her identity the last time she infiltrated the palace. I was also careless and thought too little of her, which resulted in the escape of that little fox," said the Daoist. "However, I had left a mystic-arts seal on her body while she was escaping. As long as she''s within 5000 kilometers of me, I can sense her. Just today, I sensed her location and have determined that she''s in the capital. Furthermore, she''s at Princess Wei Ran''s Eight Immortals Restaurant."


    "In the capital and at Eight Immortals Restaurant?" The sovereign turned extremely excited. "Good, good, good. That little demoness sure is bold. She believes that as long as she avoids you, no one will be able to see through her. She probably never expected for you to have left a contingency on her. She has invited herself into a trap!"


    "Your Majesty, the nine-tailed fox''s life-preservation means are rather formidable," said the Daoist. "Upon our capture of her, we must seal the capital and the void. We must not let the little fox escape again."


    "Rest assured!"


    The sovereign laughed and said, "We will be prepared. That little fox will not be able to escape."


    With that said, he clapped.


    Sou! Sou! Sou!


    Three figures appeared in the hall from within the void. They looked at the sovereign and bowed slightly before straightening their backs. They had a unique standing in the Wei Nation. They only obeyed the sovereign and the sovereign thought highly of them.


    "Elders, the nine-tailed fox who attempted an assassination on me previously has infiltrated the capital again. She''s at Eight Immortals Restaurant. I would like to request that the three of you capture her and allow me to question her personally. Also¡­ that nine-tailed fox has rather formidable life-preservation means. Make sure to seal the capital at the moment you take action," instructed the sovereign.


    "Yes, we will return shortly," said an Elder coldly.


    "Make sure she''s captured alive," exhorted the sovereign again.


    "Your Majesty, rest assured," the three Elders replied sulkily.


    Following that, they vanished from the hall.


    To them, capturing an early-stage Skyimmortal fox immortal was nothing worth mentioning. Yet, the sovereign had sent all three of them. He even wanted her captured alive? How could the three of them not understand what was on his mind?


    "Congratulations, Your Majesty." The red-robed Daoist said with a smile. "I can tell that the nine-tailed fox is a virgin."


    "Hahaha¡­ Thanks to you, Uncle-Master. If not, I wouldn''t have know that she had infiltrated the capital." The sovereign roared with laughter as his eyes filled with anticipation.


    Soon. Soon.


    That little demoness would be in his hand!


    ¡­


    The streets outside Eight Immortals Restaurant were packed with people.


    Beside a street stall was a linen-clothed elder eating soya beancurd. As he ate, he shot a glance at the Eight Immortals Restaurant nearby.


    Inside the elder''s Essence Soul hid a power. It was Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar!


    "I have come personally to investigate.


    "Let''s see if Daoist Feng is Qin Yun or not!" Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar secretly spied.


    "Qin Yun is a pinnacle mighty figure after all. Sending other subordinates to spy on him will definitely be detected by him. It would easily alert him. And if I were to do it myself¡­ with the mystical charms of my Mental Demon lineage, it''s impossible for pinnacle mighty figures to sense me. Perhaps only perfected Great Dao experts can faintly sense me. Furthermore, even if they sense something, they will not be able to find me."


    Patriarch Mental Demon was very confident.


    His spying was not obstructed by the Eight Immortals Restaurant''s array formation or building.


    "That is Eight Immortals Restaurant''s owner, Princess Wei Ran. Beside her is the nine-tailed fox. As for Daoist Feng¡­" Patriarch Mental Demon also saw Qin Yun drinking and eating freely.


    Every major suspect would have Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar personally examine them. This was a standard practice. He had many suspected targets and Daoist Feng was only one of them.


    However, when he looked at Qin Yun¡ª


    "I actually can''t see through him?"


    Patriarch Mental Demon could not help but feel a jolt!


    ¡­


    Qin Yun was enjoying himself greatly by eating all sorts of delicacies and drinking fine wine in the best VIP room of the Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    Although he appeared to be eating and drinking, he was well aware of everything that was happening in the capital.


    "Doesn''t the Black Wind Fiend Sect feel the pinch? It actually sent a late-stage Skyfiend to the Wei Nation to preside over it." Qin Yun could tell that the Supremacy was a late-stage Skyfiend and had a high standing in the Black Wind Fiend Sect. The sect was established by a mighty figure and there were three half-step mighty figures in the sect. They also had about ten plus late-stage Skyimmortals, making them a very powerful sect in the Huifeng Great World.


    As for the Daoist and Buddhist sects in Great Worlds, they usually sent two or three late-stage Skyimmortals to manage them. They typically had greater influence than the Black Wind Fiend Sect since if diplomacy failed, a Golden Immortal or Buddha might suddenly descend!


    The Black Wind Fiend Sect''s backer was relatively weaker, so it paid more attention into spreading its claws in the region it ruled over.


    "This Wei Nation''s sovereign has even sent three experts to capture Qing Shuang?" Qin Yun chuckled inwardly.


    "Oh?"


    Suddenly, he felt like he was being spied upon.


    "Someone is spying on me. Even with my perfected Great Dao realm, I can''t detect him." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "I can only barely sense the spying."


    Following that was joy and excitement.


    "The fiends have finally discovered me?"

 650 Leave Quickly

    Deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body sat cross-legged as he looked at Patriarch Mental Demon''s manifestation before him.


    "Fiend Ancestor." Patriarch Mental Demon''s manifestation said reverently, "I''m currently investigating in the Huifeng Great World and have discovered a swordsman named Daoist Feng! On the surface, he has the strength of a Skyimmortal, but when my avatar went close to spy on him¡­ I was unable to find out anything about him."


    "You weren''t able to see through him?" Fiend Ancestor''s eyes lit up.


    Patriarch Mental Demon continued, "Yes! I couldn''t see through him. In the Three Realms, there are few people I cannot see through. As you mentioned before, the Huifeng Great World only has one perfected Great Dao existence in it, the Lord of the Huifeng Great World. He lives in East Xiao Fiend Mountain, so it''s impossible for Daoist Feng to be him.


    "And to be beneath a perfected Great Dao, I''m actually unable to see through a Skyimmortal! I''m ninety percent sure that Daoist Feng is Qin Yun.


    "The other ten percent chance is that he is simply a Skyimmortal who happened to obtain a Connate Numinous treasure that is good at hiding from the heavenly secrets," Patriarch Mental Demon said.


    Fiend Ancestor laughed. "You are too careful. It would have been fine if a Skyimmortal chanced upon a Connate Numinous treasure, but to get one that can hide from the heavenly secrets and prevent you from seeing through them? The number of Connate Numinous treasures that can do so is pathetic. Most of them were personally refined by Heavenly Dao realm existences. Even if they bestowed it to someone, it would not be given to an ordinary Skyimmortal.


    "From my point of view, Daoist Feng is 99% Qin Yun." Fiend Ancestor''s eyes burned.


    "These are all guesses. If we don''t take action, there''s no way to determine if he is Qin Yun," said Patriarch Mental Demon.


    At this point¡­


    They needed to take action to verify.


    "Do you have other suspected targets?" asked Fiend Ancestor.


    "No," said Patriarch Mental Demon. "There were some suspected candidates according to the intelligence, but when my avatars spied on them nearby, I could see through their strength immediately. They had no secrets before me, so they were rejected. The only suspicion¡­ is this Daoist Feng. I can''t see through him."


    "Then commence." Fiend Ancestor looked into the distance. "Brother Spirit Devouring."


    Hua!


    A figure materialized.


    He was tall and thin, with long blood-colored brows. His eyes were astoundingly sharp and he was draped in an ordinary red robe.


    "Brother Spirit Devouring." Patriarch Mental Demon also bowed respectfully.


    "Mental Demon." Patriarch Spirit Devouring smiled with a nod.


    "Brother Spirit Devouring, Mental Demon has found someone who is 99% Qin Yun," said Fiend Ancestor. "You have to be 100% sure before you take action!"


    "It''s time to take action?" said Patriarch Spirit Devouring with a smile. "Ever since you requested for me to prepare, I have been waiting so long for this day. I really would like to have a taste of an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure."


    "You can damage the Misty Rain Sword, but do not eat it," said Fiend Ancestor immediately. "You have to bring it back to me. I need to refine it."


    "Fiend Ancestor, rest assured. I will do as I promised you," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    Fiend Ancestor nodded. "In the Three Realms, the only person who can damage a Connate Cardinal treasure is probably you."


    Patriarch Mental Demon flattered as well, "Back when Brother Spirit Devouring was still a pinnacle mighty figure, he was even able to eat a portion of the Buddhists'' Connate Cardinal treasure, Merit Gold Lotus. Brother Spirit Devouring first cultivated in the Dao before switching to Buddhism, then into the fiendish ways¡­ He eventually forged a perfected Great Dao for the Spirit Devouring lineage. He definitely has a greater chance of devouring a Connate Cardinal treasure."


    "A Connate Cardinal treasure cannot be underestimated," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring. "If a perfected Great Dao were to control a Connate Cardinal treasure, I would not be able to damage it as well. Qin Yun¡­ he is only a pinnacle Great Dao Itinerant Immortal. His Dharmic powers are too weak and his realm is low."


    Patriarch Mental Demon nodded in agreement.


    "Besides, I have the massive array that Fiend Ancestor refined personally," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring. "With the array bolstering my own abilities, it would be a joke if I''m unable to damage a pinnacle Itinerant Immortal''s Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure."


    "I''ll be counting on you, Brother Spirit Devouring." Fiend Ancestor was very polite as well. "Once the deed is done, I''ll naturally do what I promised you."


    "I naturally trust you, Fiend Ancestor." Patriarch Spirit Devouring smiled.


    The fiends had three perfected Great Dao existences.


    Fiend King Boxun was the strongest. He was once the leader of the fiends, but he kept the lowest profile now. As for Patriarch Blood Sea and Patriarch Spirit Devouring, they were considered fiends among fiends. They had heinous sins on them.


    Their relationship with Fiend Ancestor was more a "cooperation."


    ******


    Wei Nation''s capital. In the VIP room in Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    While Patriarch Mental Demon was informing Fiend Ancestor, Qin Yun, Qing Shuang, and Princess Wei Ran were enjoying the delicacies of Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    Delicacies were served one after another.


    The speed at which dishes were served was much faster than it was downstairs.


    "Yes, yes. Eight Immortals Restaurant does live up to its name," Qin Yun praised as he ate.


    Princess Wei Ran smiled and said, "Dao Brother, are you here passing through my Wei Nation or do you have matters to tend to? If there''s anything you need of me, feel free to make a request."


    "In the Wei Nation?" Qin Yun shot a glance at Princess Wei Ran. "Of course there are issues."


    "What is it?" inquired Princess Wei Ran.


    "The present Wei Nation has its people in destitution. There are refugees everywhere, as well as people starving to death on the streets. Fiends do evil everywhere and mortals are being slaughtered like sheep," said Qin Yun calmly. However, Princess Wei Ran''s expression changed.


    "I wish to deal with it, but this corruption has nearly spread through the entire Wei Nation. The Wei Nation''s chaos has all but turned the land into a fiendish dominion! How am I to deal with it? After some thought, I brought my disciple here with me to the Wei Nation''s capital," said Qin Yun with a scoff. "This Wei Nation capital has many cultivators, so it still enjoys pleasant peace."


    "It''s a shame. The Wei Nation was not like this in the past." Princess Wei Ran had a nasty expression, but she could only say the statement weakly.


    "Yes, it was not like this in the past."


    Qing Shuang could not help but say anxiously, "My hometown is in the Wei Nation. The Wei Nation was completely fine. Although the people in the villages and towns near my cave abode needed to work hard, they lived their days happily. They were also very kind. But everything changed in recent decades. The villages and towns are already empty except for the bones that fill the streets. Your Wei Nation''s royal household rules the Wei Nation, but is this how you treat the Wei Nation''s citizens?"


    "I understand all of this." Princess Wei Ran raised her wine cup and downed it. Then, she said with reddened eyes, "I have argued with the clan elders and the patriarch of my Wei clan¡­ But what can I do when the clan has internally made a decision? I sought my master''s help! I implored the Eight Immortals to descend and change the World Descent, but my master said that the Huifeng Great World has its owner. It''s not easy for them to interfere.


    "I have no solution," said Princess Wei Ran bitterly. "I can''t do a thing at all."


    Although she secretly wanted to save people, and she actually had saved quite a number of people, it was a drop in the ocean for a dominion as large as the Wei Nation.


    "Yes, they can''t interfere." Qin Yun nodded.


    He knew that the owner of the Huifeng Great World was Hundun of the Three Banes. Although the Eight Scenic Palace lineage was powerful, they were helpless against a perfected Great Dao existence. Dao Ancestor Grand Supreme did not even have a single perfected Great Dao existence under him to date.


    However, Qin Yun also knew very well that among the Three Banes, Hundun was the most crafty one, but he was also the most afraid of death. As long as he showed his half-step Heavenly Dao realm strength, Hundun would definitely not dare to offend Qin Yun.


    "Master and the rest are helpless, and I can''t do a thing against my family clan. All I can do is watch helplessly," said Princess Wei Ran softly. "My idea is to hopefully cultivate to the late-stage Skyimmortal realm and snatch the position of my family clan''s clan head. Only then can I change the Wei clan and change the entire Wei Nation. However, I have only recently reached the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm. The chances of the late-stage Skyimmortal realm are bleak."


    "Dao Brother, you might want to effect change, but I urge you to not be rash," said Princess Wei Ran. "The Wei clan has not completely submitted itself to the Black Wind Fiend Sect. More than half of them cultivate in the fiendish ways. The Wei clan is very strong, but the Black Wind Fiend Sect backing it is even stronger. The Black Wind Fiend Sect''s sect master is a mighty figure."


    "Are you just going to watch?" asked Qin Yun. "Are you going to watch countless people live their lives as nothing more than ants while experiencing torment?"


    "What can I do?" Princess Wei Ran continued drinking another cup.


    While they were conversing, the void that permeated the Wei Nation''s capital was suddenly sealed.


    "Oh?" Qing Shuang and Princess Wei Ran flinched.


    "The void has been sealed? The capital has been sealed?" exclaimed Princess Wei Ran. "What happened?"


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Three terrifying auras appeared in midair. Princess Wei Ran waved her hand to open the windows, only to see three elders standing in midair outside. All of them effused fiendish auras and had terrifying and banal Dharmic powers.


    "Three Clan Elders." Princess Wei Ran was alarmed.


    The three Clan Elders were staring at Eight Immortals Restaurant. They were looking straight into the VIP room and looking at Qing Shuang.


    "Fox demoness, how dare you attempt an assassination on His Majesty?" One of the Clan Elders looked down as he berated angrily, "To dare infiltrate the capital, you really have a death wish."


    "Fox demoness, give up and surrender!" another Clan Elder said. With a wave of his hand, numerous black threads flew out in a bid to bind Qing Shuang.


    Qing Shuang revealed a look of shock.


    "They discovered me?" Qing Shuang felt disbelief.


    She was very confident about her concealment means. She believed that as long as she did not appear before the ''Supremacy,'' no one in the city could discover her. She had infiltrated the imperial palace with those same means previously; yet, none of the experts in the palace saw through her true identity. It was only when the ''Supremacy'' appeared that he saw through her.


    Now that they had just entered the city and was eating at Eight Immortals Restaurant, the Wei clan had already sent experts?


    "Courting death!" Qin Yun bellowed lightly.


    He sat there without even standing up. However, the wine in his cup separated into three water swords that streaked across the air. Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! They tore right through the three Clan Elder''s glabella.


    The three mid-stage Skyfiend Clan Elders wore looks of horror, but their auras were already vanquished. They had instantly been killed.


    The three Skyfiend corpses plummeted to the ground.


    The three Clan Elders were dead!


    "Master, leave quickly." However, Qing Shuang urged immediately, "I have been discovered. This is the Wei Nation''s capital. We won''t be the Wei Nation''s match. Leave quickly."


    "Dao Brother, leave quickly. You killed three Clan Elders, so the Clan Head must be infuriated. He will probably take personal action," said Princess Wei Ran as well. "The Wei clan has thousands of Skyimmortals and Skyfiends. The capital has set up cornerstone array formations over the years. You won''t be their match."

 651 Hidden Some Strength

    Wei Nation''s capital. Royal Palace.


    The sovereign was having a casual chat with the red-robed bald Daoist.


    "Your Majesty, you have looked out several times; it seems your mind is completely on that nine-tailed fox," said the Daoist with a chuckle.


    "Haha, I''m indeed feeling a little anxious. The three Clan Elders are still a little too slow for my liking," said the sovereign.


    "Don''t fret. That nine-tailed fox will soon be captured." The Daoist looked out as well as his eyes glimmered. They tore through the distance and looked at Eight Immortals Restaurant where the three Clan Elders had already begun taking action.


    "Oh no!"


    The red-robed Daoist''s expression changed suddenly.


    The sovereign was also looking outside when he saw the same scene as well. He could not help but stand up and exclaim, "He killed the three Clan Elders with just alcohol?"


    "He''s at the late-stage Skyimmortal realm. His strength is probably in no way inferior to mine," said the Daoist seriously.


    "Late-stage Skyimmortal realm? In our Huifeng Great World, there are only about a hundred or so at the late-stage Skyimmortal realm. I have intelligence on every one of them. However, I do not know who this murderer of the three Clan Elders is." The sovereign was alarmed and fearful. A late-stage Skyimmortal was capable of ruling over a region. The Wei Nation could rule over such a huge dominion largely because of Patriarch Wei''s reputation as a late-stage Skyimmortal.


    Of course, Patriarch Wei had already switched his cultivation to the fiendish ways.


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying aura appeared within the palace.


    "Patriarch has come out of seclusion," said the sovereign immediately.


    "Let''s go, quickly," the Daoist said as he left the palace hall with the sovereign.


    Standing on a square outside the hall was a white-haired purple-robed elder. Standing beside him were about twenty experts.


    "Patriarch." The sovereign went forward obediently and bowed.


    "Greetings, Dao Brother Wei." The red-robed Daoist was also rather polite.


    "Supremacy, sorry for the spectacle," said the purple-robed elder lightly. "I never expected that, just because I have not fought in years, someone would dare kill my Wei Clan Elders in my Wei Nation in the Huifeng Great World."


    "It''s probably some junior who recently rose to prominence, and his lack of understanding of your means caused him to act so belligerently," said the red-robed Daoist immediately.


    "Then it''s time to show my means. I''ll let this junior know that an old man like me is not that easily bullied," said the purple-robed elder. "Supremacy, do you wish to join me?"


    "I''ll join. I wish to witness the means at your disposal as well," said the red-robed Daoist with a laugh.


    "Let''s go!"


    The purple-robed elder gave the order.


    Immediately, more than twenty figures, including the sovereign and Supremacy, flew toward Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    ******


    Inside Eight Immortals Restaurant.


    Qing Shuang and Princess Wei Ran were griped with anxiety as they urged Qin Yun to leave.


    "What''s the rush?"


    Qin Yun continued pouring more alcohol for himself. As he drank, he ate. "Isn''t it only the Wei clan''s patriarch? Is he that terrifying?"


    "Although the Wei clan has changed to something I detest, it has become stronger!" Princess Wei Ran said. "Patriarch was a ninth firmament Skyimmortal a long time ago. Perhaps he was stuck in his bottleneck for too long that he switched to the fiendish ways! Patriarch''s strength, through the use of various arrays, can match that of a half-step Golden Immortal."


    "What?" Qing Shuang exclaimed. "Even Patriarch Wei has switched to the fiendish way? Master, leave quickly! Now that Patriarch Wei is a fiendish cultivator, his actions will only be more intense."


    "Leave?"


    Qin Yun continued sitting staidly. "How? Now that the entire city is sealed, it''s already too late to leave."


    "How do you know you won''t escape if you don''t try?" said Princess Wei Ran anxiously.


    "Don''t worry, I''m still well aware of everything related to your patriarch." Qin Yun shot a glance at Princess Wei Ran. "Your Wei clan had about seventy percent of its Skyimmortals cultivating in the Dao originally... Under your patriarch''s lead, many switched to the fiendish way. Now, about sixty percent of the Skyimmortals in your clan are fiendish cultivators. The remaining are in a dilemma, while some are resisting it. Am I right?"


    "You are even aware of this?" Princess Wei Ran was alarmed. "Where did you hear of our clan''s internal strife?"


    "With what your Wei clan has in place, it''s not a problem for me. Continue eating and drinking. Your Eight Immortals Restaurant''s food is really good." Qin Yun continued eating.


    Qing Shuang turned a little more collected when she saw how calm and confident her master was.


    "Dao Brother Feng, which Daoist lineage are you from? Is a Daoist mighty figure planning on interfering in my Wei Nation?" Princess Wei Ran inquired. If a late-stage Skyimmortal had a master, the master was typically a mighty figure.


    "You will know in a while." Qin Yun smiled without saying any further.


    Indeed, a mighty figure was interfering in the Wei Nation.


    He was that mighty figure!


    After Qin Yun sensed the mysterious spying, he realized that the fiends had discovered him. Therefore, he planned on quickly resolving the Wei Nation''s situation! To him... the plight of the Wei Nation involved him saving countless lives that only lived in its borders. More importantly, it was a very easily resolved matter. In contrast, the trap he had set up for the fiends to launch an assault against him was something that would influence the Three Realms. He had to do his best.


    "I wonder how my Wei clan has offended you, fellow Daoist, for you to kill my three Wei clan elders without a word in such a vicious manner!" A cold voice sounded.


    "Let''s go out to take a look." Qin Yun got up and flew out with Qing Shuang and Princess Wei Ran. He stood in midair.


    He instantly saw a black cloud in front of him in midair. Standing on it was a purple-robed elder and to his sides were a red-robed bald Daoist and the Wei Nation''s sovereign. Behind them were about twenty plus Skyfiends. Their Skyfiend auras flared, indicating that they were mid-stage Skyfiends.


    "What? Aren''t you going to say something about your killing my Wei clan elders?" said the purple-robed elder coldly.


    "Ridding evil is for the greater good! It is something that accrues massive merit!" Qin Yun said.


    The purple-robed elder''s expression turned colder. "At this point in time, you are still speaking in such an ambiguous manner? Fellow Daoist, which lineage are you a disciple of? Why are you here in my Wei Nation?"


    "Ambiguous? The commoners of the Wei Nation are living destitute lives and there are bones strewn everywhere in its borders. All of this because of how evil is wreaking havoc. The greatest evil in all of the Wei Nation... is you! The Skyfiends under you are all your lackeys. Killing all of you is a meritorious deed. Am I still not clear enough?" Qin Yun said.


    "Just this?" The purple-robed sneered. "Cultivation is such an arduous task. These ants are only grain for our cultivation. You plan to make the Wei clan your enemy for these ants?"


    "Ants?" Qing Shuang could not help but say, "Wei Wuxiao, your cultivation began as a mortal too, but you view them as ants?"


    "Wild animals are nothing but beasts, but once they gain sentience, they are demons," said the purple-robed elder. "It''s the same as mortals. If they don''t cultivate, they are ants. If they undergo a rejuvenation and condense an Essence Soul, they will attain eternal life. That makes them immortal, a god, a fiend! They stand above life. We are different from mortals. Just like humans eat beef, pork, and mutton, we immortals and fiends consume the mortals as grain... Is there anything wrong with that?"


    "You... You..." Qing Shuang was instantly at a loss for words.


    "Little Fox, you haven''t cultivated for long. You will understand in the future." The purple-robed elder laughed.


    "Don''t talk about immortals and fiends consuming mortals as grain. We immortals are different from you fiends," said Qin Yun. "The various lineages of immortals and Buddhists are meant to protect all life, but fiends consume life."


    "That sounds too nasty," said the purple-robed elder. "The Daoist, Buddhist, and Fiendish Dao are all cultivation paths. They allow us to become stronger. Regardless of which lineage we cultivate... they allow the study of the Great Dao. Why do you need to insist on the differences? For instance, my Wei clan has clansmen who cultivate in the fiendish way and there are others cultivating in the immortal ways. Isn''t there harmony?"


    "Is that so? All these years, your Wei clan has had many die because of a Daoist-Fiend conflict. About 280 Skyimmortals have died as a result," said Qin Yun. "For instance, the group of subordinates behind you are all Skyfiends. Why don''t I see you bringing any Skyimmortal clansmen with you?"


    The purple-robed elder''s pupils constricted before he chuckled. "After saying all this, are you not going to reveal your background?"


    "A fiend like you who''s about to die doesn''t need to ask that much," Qin Yun said.


    "What impudence."


    The purple-robed elder''s eyes flashed ferociously.


    Boom!


    A massive array chart appeared above the entire Wei Nation capital. Purple flames condensed into eight massive snakes that attacked Qin Yun.


    "Junior, try my Inferno Hell Eight Snakes Array!" The purple-robed elder''s Dharmic powers flared.


    "Go."


    Two sword beams flew out from the sword scabbard on Qin Yun''s back. They were mystical and unpredictable. With a flash, they slashed through two purple snakes that blocked their paths before arriving in front of the purple-robed elder. Although taken aback, the purple-robed elder took out a trigram mirror and defended with all his might. However, the two sword flashes still penetrated his body.


    "H-how is it possible..." The purple-robed elder''s eyes were filled with disbelief.


    He, Wei Wuxiao, was an expert that reigned supreme in an area of the Huifeng Great World. How was he so easily killed despite having his massive array formation in his capital?


    As his aura dissipated, his body plummeted from midair.


    "No good!" When the red-robed Daoist saw this, he immediately transformed into a red beam as he flew off in a hurry.


    "Do you think you can escape?" Qin Yun looked in his direction.


    The two sword flashes that had killed Wei Wuxiao quickly caught up to him.


    "I''m Crimson Robe Supremacy of the Black Wind Fiend Sect." The red-robed Daoist hurriedly pleaded through a voice transmission. "Please spare me on account..."


    "Pfft!"


    The sword flash tore through him.


    He found it unbelievable.


    The Black Wind Fiend Sect... enjoyed high prestige in the Huifeng Great World. After all, it was a sect established by a mighty figure.


    "Whoosh."


    The red-robed Daoist also plummeted from midair.


    This scene shocked the group of Skyfiends behind Patriarch Wei. The Wei Nation''s sovereign was in a daze from his shock. The patriarch, who could fight half-step Golden Immortals while inside the capital, had been killed that easily? Even the Supremacy sent by the Black Wind Fiend Sect had been killed?"


    "Wei Nation''s sovereign." Qin Yun looked over.


    "Spare me! Spare me!" The Wei Nation''s sovereign''s knees buckled. He kneeled on the clouds and pleaded obsequiously. "I-I was only listening to Patriarch''s instructions. I''m only a puppet. I''m innocent."


    "Bam!"


    A Sword Qi coagulated in midair and pierced through his glabella. His eyes gradually turned turbid as his body slumped onto the black clouds.


    "Puppet? Innocent? The sins you have are no less inferior to your patriarch''s," said Qin Yun softly. To lie in front of a mighty figure? A mighty figure could tell at a glance what someone had done in the past!


    The two sword flashes flew back into the sword scabbard on Qin Yun''s back.


    The horrified Skyfiends on the clouds felt hope. "This Daoist is stopping?"


    "Myriad swords!" Qin Yun extended his hand as numerous Sword Qi condensed above the Wei Nation''s capital. More than ten thousand Sword Qi formed and as Qin Yun lowered his right palm a little, he shouted, "Obliterate!"


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    Countless Sword Qi shot downwards and rapidly tore through every fiend with the agility of a fish in water.


    That included the twenty plus mid-stage Skyfiends in midair, as well as the two thousand plus Skyfiends in the capital. In short, anyone in the city with sufficiently heinous sins... were all penetrated by the Sword Qi. Countless Sword Qi swept through and slew the fiends. In just seconds, all the most sinful beings in the Wei Nation capital were wiped out.


    This scene left Qing Shuang and Princess Wei Ran astounded.


    Myriad Sword Qi to cause such obliteration...


    "Master." Qing Shuang looked at Qin Yun.


    "Haha, I was just hiding some of my strength. Are you pleasantly surprised?" Qin Yun looked at his disciple with a smile. Qing Shuang was taken aback as she nodded slightly.


    "Wei Ran." Qin Yun looked at Princess Wei Ran. "Your Wei clan still has more than a thousand Skyimmortals. They have accrued merit, but were being suppressed by Patriarch Wei. From this day forth, you shall be the new sovereign of the Wei Nation. Lead these Skyimmortals and rule over the Wei Nation properly."


    "I''ll be sovereign?" asked Princess Wei Ran.


    "Yes, you. Whoever objects to it has to get past me," said Qin Yun.


    Princess Wei Ran''s mind went into a buzz. The Wei clan had become massive over extended periods of time. Many people of other surnames had also joined the Wei clan which had always been a mix of fiendish and Daoist cultivators. In the past, the Daoist cultivators had the advantage, but ever since the patriarch switched to the fiendish way, the fiendish cultivators took the advantage! Now... Qin Yun had directly obliterated the strongest group of fiendish cultivators in the Wei clan.


    Although the few in remote lands could continue living an abject existence, they were unable to affect the overall situation.


    "By the way." Qin Yun thought for a moment and took out a token before throwing it at Princess Wei Ran. "Golden Sand Sect''s sect master is my junior brother. You can seek his help on typical matters. If there''s anything important, get him to inform me."


    "The Huifeng Great World''s Golden Sand Sect Master is also a late-stage Skyimmortal," Princess Wei Ran could not help but ask. "Dao Brother Feng, you were able to easily kill Patriarch, are you capable of matching mighty figures?"


    "I guess so." Qin Yun did not speak further. He looked at Qing Shuang and said, "Qing Shuang, the matter regarding the Wei Nation is more or less done. It''s time we leave."

 652 Plo

    On the streets outside Eight Immortals Restaurant, there were still a few bold ones who hid in the street corners to watch the battle between immortal and fiends in the sky.


    "How impressive. The aura of the immortals and fiends above are so potent, far stronger than my grandmaster. Terrifying. They are all at the Skyimmortal or Skyfiend realm."


    "Such a massive battle is rare even in the capital."


    "Having just left my mountain sect, I never expected to encounter such a major battle upon coming to the capital."


    Many people watched in excitement.


    There were thousands of Skyimmortals and Skyfiends in the capital. There were even more Essence Soul realm or mortal cultivators. At that moment, they were either watching the battle from the streets or through their windows.


    Patriarch Wei had cast Inferno Hell Eight Snakes Array and its array formation had enveloped the entire capital. Its might was indeed terrifying.


    "This Patriarch Wei can match a half-step mighty figure with the aid of that array, but he was killed in one blow." A linen-clothed elder by the corner of the street, who was none other than Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar, discussed the events with his partners via voice transmission. "Brother Spirit Devouring, this mysterious Daoist Feng''s attack must be close to that of an ordinary mighty figure, right?"


    "Barely," a fat elder beside him said. He was the manifestation of Patriarch Spirit Devouring. He had long reached the perfected Great Dao realm and with the Fiend Ancestor''s help, he had concealed his aura. Despite having infiltrated the capital, Qin Yun only barely sensed their spying, but was unable to determine who it was that spied on him.


    "However, it only proves that his strength matches that of a mighty figure. To verify that he is really Qin Yun, we still need to attack," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring via voice transmission. "If I were to attack, it would cause a huge stir¡­ If Daoist Feng happens not to be Qin Yun, news of my attack will immediately spread. Once the Green Touring Palace lineage learns of it, they will definitely be put on the alert. Qin Yun would also hide away and not dare appear in a Great World again. Then, Fiend Ancestor''s plan will fail. Therefore, I will still need you, Brother Mental Demon, to probe him. Your moves are formless and undetectable, making them extremely stealthy."


    Just as they were conversing via voice transmission, Qin Yun released countless Sword Qi that descended like the rain. They tore through the bodies of the fiends, killing countless fiends.


    "Ahhh¡­"


    "No¡ª" Tragic screams sounded from everywhere as countless fiends perished.


    The Wei Nation capital''s populace only thought of it as a battle between experts, but they never realized how crucial this battle was for the Wei Nation.


    "Alright, I''ll probe him," said Patriarch Mental Demon. "However, Brother Spirit Devouring, if he''s really Qin Yun, make sure not to let him escape. I''m only able to injure him, but not stop him."


    "Just do what you need to do. I will naturally not fail at my task. As long as he''s Qin Yun, he''s dead!" Patriarch Spirit Devouring was very confident.


    His attacks were famous throughout the Three Realms.


    He was known to have the sharpest mouth in the Three Realms, he could even damage Connate Cardinal treasures!


    With the Fiend Ancestor''s specially prepared array, and their minds set to the task¡­ killing a pinnacle mighty figure that relied on a Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure had a high chance of success!


    "He''s leaving." Patriarch Spirit Devouring suddenly frowned as he sent a voice transmission. "If he were to leave, who knows when we will find him again? Quickly attack."


    "Alright," answered Patriarch Mental Demon.


    ¡­


    In midair.


    "Master, are we leaving now?" Qing Shuang was somewhat astonished.


    "Since the Wei Nation''s matters are settled, it''s time we leave," Qin Yun said while he sensed the two spying entities. Clearly, two mysterious experts were watching him.


    He had to leave now to force the fiends to quickly attack!


    "By the way, I killed a Supremacy of the Black Wind Fiend Sect. If it seeks retribution, feel free to give my name," Qin Yun said.


    "Thank you, Dao Brother Feng, for doing all this. The Wei clan Skyfiends who died probably died in grievance, but nearly all the living Skyimmortals will be grateful towards you. The billions of Wei Nation commoners will also be grateful towards you," said Princess Wei Ran.


    "The commoners do not ask for much. All they wish is to have food to eat and shelter to live under." After saying that, Qin Yun said, "Qing Shuang, let''s go."


    With Qing Shuang, he rode on a cloud and flew rapidly towards the horizon.


    Qing Shuang followed her master obediently. As she looked at her master''s figure, she felt mixed emotions. She had not cultivated for long¡ªless than a hundred years. Surrounding the cave abode where she used to cultivate in seclusion were villagers who treated her very well. But later¡­ the human world she remembered was gone by the time she finished her cultivation!


    The human world seemed like hell with white bones strewn across the ground.


    The grannies, toddlers, young adults she was familiar with were all dead. Qing Shuang did not believe that was what the human world should look like.


    Therefore, she was fully willing to assassinate the Wei Nation''s sovereign. After all¡­ even if the assassination attempt was successful, there was a high chance of not being able to escape. After killing the sovereign, the revenge exacted by the Wei clan would intensify by a hundred or thousand times. Her fate was practically sealed, but she still attempted the assassination, showing her determined she was.


    She failed.


    However, despite failing, her master had done it! Her master had wiped out the fiends in the Wei Nation!


    "This Wei Nation will turn for the better. The people''s future will be blissful. Master, I thank you on behalf of them," Qing Shuang thought silently.


    While Qing Shuang was still immersed in her emotions, Qin Yun was actually very wary while he led her in flight.


    "I laid a trap, but I can''t identify the two who are spying on me. These two might very well be perfected Great Dao existences. Are they sending two to deal with me at once? I might be confident against one, but if it''s two against one¡­ Perhaps, I might even succumb?" Qin Yun suddenly felt a worry that grew in his heart.


    "No good! The enemy has already attacked!"


    Qin Yun snapped to his senses.


    His Essence Soul was powerful and had long reached the perfected Great Dao realm. Furthermore, his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was being nourished in his Essence Soul to guard it. At that moment, the Misty Rain Sword''s formless Sword Qi became defensive upon sensing a formless energy that permeated the area.


    ¡­


    The linen-clothed elder by the corner of the streets¡ªPatriarch Mental Demon¡ªwas actually his strongest avatar.


    He had secretly attacked the departing Qin Yun.


    When the formless energy permeated Qin Yun''s body¡­


    It was instantly sliced apart by the formless Sword Qi. Tiny amounts of power were barely transmitted into Qin Yun''s body. Even so, Patriarch Mental Demon could not withstand that.


    "Pfft." The Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar paled as his Essence Soul trembled. The lifeblood in him boiled over as he spewed a mouthful of blood.


    "The Sword Qi is terrifying. It''s like countless flying swords are slicing at my Essence Soul," Patriarch Mental Demon thought. "Is having an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure protecting one''s Essence Soul that powerful?"


    "It''s him!"


    Although shocked, Patriarch Mental Demon''s avatar still nodded slightly at Patriarch Spirit Devouring. Qin Yun was the only one capable of such terrifying Sword Qi in the Three Realms!


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring revealed a look of glee. "Great!"


    ¡­


    When Qin Yun sensed the attack, he was very alarmed. "I''m at the perfected Great Dao realm, and I have the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure guarding my Essence Soul. Yet, he can still influence my thoughts?" However, he was unaware that Patriarch Mental Demon''s strongest strike had only influenced his thoughts at the cost of being heavily injured.


    "Qing Shuang, let''s go!" Qin Yun held Qing Shuang''s hand and immediately waved his hand. A sword flash appeared seemingly to tear open the void, making him appear as though he was escaping.


    Hum!


    A terrifying massive array erupted.


    The array was set up by Patriarch Spirit Devouring the moment he stealthily entered the Huifeng Great World. At that moment, the array''s activation influenced the entire space-time of the Huifeng Great World. Space-time was completely sealed, so even perfected Great Dao experts could not escape.


    The phenomenon of a dark red array appeared in midair. It stretched out for half a million kilometers.


    The array was directly connected to the remote Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Boundless fiendish powers descended upon the Huifeng Great World. Such a stir naturally alarmed all the Huifeng Great World''s experts.


    "Hahaha¡­ Qin Yun, are you thinking of fleeing? It''s too late!"


    A laughter resounded through the area as a figure appeared beneath the array formation. A lanky figure, with eyes beneath a pair of blood-colored brows was staring at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun looked over and recognized him. "The person that came to deal with me is Patriarch Spirit Devouring? That''s within expectations."


    When Qing Shuang saw the terrifying array, she was astounded. When she heard Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s words resound through the sky, she hurriedly said, "Master, it looks like the Huifeng Great World will play host to a massive battle. An enemy is here to deal with Sword Immortal Qin! Let''s quickly hide away or we might be implicated!"

 653 Fiend Ancestor Attacks

    "Implicated?" Qin Yun looked at his disciple and laughed.


    "Little Fox, the person I want dead if your master! Do you not know that your master is Qin Yun?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring said leisurely from a distance away. His voice resounded with absolute confidence. The array was formed! Qin Yun had fallen into the trap and from Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s point of view, victory was at hand!


    "Ah!"


    Qing Shuang was taken aback as she looked at Qin Yun.


    Daoist Feng was Sword Immortal Qin?


    Sword Immortal Qin was a famous mighty figure in the Three Realms! Many Skyimmortals in the Three Realms had heard of his fame. Many mighty figures had died under Sword Immortal Qin''s hands. Among them was the notorious Wu Zhiqi.


    Qin Yun''s aura and looks began to change slightly, but just that tiny change made him appear sharper. He had returned to his original appearance.


    "Master, you¡­" Qing Shuang looked at Qin Yun in his present state.


    "Qing Shuang, he''s right. I''m Qin Yun, but don''t be afraid. This Daoist Wen can''t do a thing against me." Qin Yun turned towards the distant Patriarch Spirit Devouring and his voice resounded. "Daoist Wen, I''ve been traveling in the Huifeng Great World, but you fiends were capable of discovering me. Impressive! However, do you think you are my match? Stop dreaming!"


    "Hahaha¡­ Qin Yun, are you acting that arrogantly with nothing but an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring was filled with confident. Besides, he was waiting for Fiend Ancestor to take action.


    To kill Qin Yun!


    It required a multifaceted cooperation.


    ¡­


    In the Huifeng Great World, Black Wind Fiend Sect''s sect master was still in a rage.


    "Who killed Crimson Robe?"


    Black Wind Sect Master instantly sensed it when Crimson Robe Supremacy was killed. It enraged him. "I want to see who has the guts to kill a Supremacy of my Black Wind Fiend Sect."


    It would have been fine if it was an ordinary disciple.


    However, a late-stage Skyimmortal Supremacy was core to the Black Wind Fiend Sect.


    "Hum." He looked towards the Wei Nation''s capital. At the instant Crimson Robe Supremacy perished, he had sensed it through karma and knew of the location of his death.


    His gaze passed through the void and landed on the capital.


    He was a mighty figure! The restrictions of the Wei Nation capital could not prevent him from seeing all.


    "Master!" A green-haired elder rushed into the hall and said anxiously, "I sensed that Junior Brother Crimson Robe is dead. Who killed him?"


    "I see it." Black Wind Sect Master looked in the Wei Nation''s capital and happened to see Qin Yun release thousands of Sword Qi to kill all the fiends in the Wei Nation capital. "An unknown Skyimmortal. He has two women beside him, a young fox and Princess Wei Ran, disciple of the Grand Supreme lineage''s Eight Immortals."


    "A Skyimmortal?" the green-haired elder raged. "He will definitely pay the price for killing Junior Brother Crimson Robe."


    "No rush. His strength barely matches that of a mighty figure. Perhaps he has some impressive backing. I''ll continue watching." Black Wind Sect Master narrowed his eyes. He dabbled in the fiendish arts, but had not fully submitted himself to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, nor was he fully Daoist. Instead, he came under Hundun, one of the Three Banes. Strictly speaking, he was considered as belonging to a neutral faction.


    "No matter how big his backing is, the Huifeng Great World is His Lordship''s territory. Anyone who kills our people here has to pay a price," said Black Wind Sect Master softly.


    "None of the Daoists, Buddhists, or people from the heavenly courts has the right to act as they wish in the Huifeng Great World," added the green-haired elder.


    Suddenly¡ª


    A powerful blast swept through the Black Wind Fiend Sect and throughout the entire Huifeng Great World. The entire Great World''s space was completely sealed.


    Black Wind Sect Master was taken aback slightly as he saw the terrifying massive array from afar. He saw the figure that appeared under it.


    "Something major is happening!" Black Wind Sect Master was so shocked that he threw Crimson Robe Supremacy''s death to the back of his mind.


    "Master, what happened?" inquired the green-haired elder.


    "Patriarch Spirit Devouring has appeared. It seems they are pursuing Sword Immortal Qin." Black Wind Sect Master watched remotely as he explained. "Sword Immortal Qin is a perfected Great Dao existence. Although Sword Immortal Qin is a pinnacle mighty figure, he has an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand. If the two fight, the Huifeng Great World would probably in thrown into turmoil."


    "The two are going to fight?" the green-haired elder was astonished.


    Both of them were mighty powerhouses!


    "This¡­" Black Wind Sect Master''s expression changed again.


    "Master?" the green-haired elder inquired.


    "Take your leave first," commanded Black Wind Sect Master.


    "Yes." The elder was puzzled, but he could only take his leave as ordered. Black Wind Sect Master was the only one left in the hall. His expression was nasty as he muttered, "The unknown Skyimmortal who killed Crimson Robe was actually Sword Immortal Qin. He abhors evil and has wiped out all the fiends in the Wei Nation. And the source of all evil in the Wei Nation is my Black Wind Fiend Sect! Would he attack me?"


    Black Wind Sect Master was appalled.


    What if Sword Immortal Qin attacked? Could he fend him off?


    One strike would be enough to kill him!


    "What do I do? What should I do?"


    "I''ll continue watching. Patriarch Spirit Devouring has ambushed that Sword Immortal Qin, so he likely has the confidence. Let''s hope he kills Sword Immortal Qin." Black Wind Sect Master no longer cared about vengeance. What he cared was for his own life. He yearned to see Qin Yun perish under Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s hands.


    ******


    The massive array affected the entire Great World. It caused such a huge stir that immediately won the attention of the Three Realms.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring had set up a massive array just to kill Qin Yun?


    Every faction from the Three Realms was astounded.


    "This array formation is connected to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. It''s drawing on the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s fiendish powers. Such an array formation¡­ can only be refined by the Fiend Ancestor himself to have such might. From the looks of it, this is Fiend Ancestor''s plan and Daoist Wen is cooperating with him. It''s to kill Qin Yun in one fell swoop and take his Misty Rain Sword for refinement." Ancestral Dragon looked remotely at the Huifeng Great World as he instantly made a guess.


    Ancient existences like them could tell the Fiend Ancestor''s goal at a glance. It was for the power of the Lotus Seed of Fate.


    "Qin Yun will be in danger."


    "Since the Fiend Ancestor has acted on his plans, he''s likely very confident in his success."


    ¡­


    "This Qin Yun is a pinnacle mighty figure Itinerant Immortal after all. Without attaining a perfected Great Dao, he has many weaknesses. The Fiend Ancestor had schemed against him and set up a massive array. It will be difficult for him to survive!" A white-robed man was in his residence as he watched remotely.


    ¡­


    "No good! Junior Brother is in danger." In the Heavenly realm, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain discovered everything that was happening in the Huifeng Great World as her expression changed drastically.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain did not hesitate to take a step and cross through space-time to rush towards the Huifeng Great World.


    In space, outside the Huifeng Great World, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain appeared.


    "The entire Huifeng Great World''s space-time has been sealed. There''s no way of entering by tearing through the void. One can only fly in from outside the Great World." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain was somewhat worried. "Junior Brother, you have to hold out."


    Space had been sealed, so only flight was possible.


    Of course, at her level, flying was in no way slow. She could traversed a hundred thousand kilometers in seconds, but to enter a Great World and reach Qin Yun''s side would take her quite a while.


    "Weng¨C"


    A figure appeared beside the massive Huifeng Great World.


    The figure was towering, far bigger than the typical Small World. Of course, it appeared slightly smaller beside a Great World. It was about a tenth of the Huifeng Great World''s size. He had green skin and stood barefoot among the stars. His four arms were forming seals as surging fiendish powers seemed to envelop the surface of the Huifeng Great World. He shouted, "Seal!"


    Immense amounts of fiendish powers formed a massive seal around the Huifeng Great World akin to an egg shell that encased the Huifeng Great World.


    Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body stood in space as he scanned his surroundings. He noticed the existences that had already come close, but he said coldly, "No one is to enter the Huifeng Great World."


    "Oh no. Space has been sealed! Now that the Fiend Ancestor has sealed it from the outside, there''s no way of flying in." Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain was gripped with anxiety.


    There was a double seal closing off both the interior and exterior.


    Clearly, it was to leave Qin Yun alone in a state where no reinforcements could be provided.

 654 Reversal

    "Brother Qin is in danger!" At the mouth of the Guan River, Yang Jian watched the situation unfold itself in the Huifeng Great World remotely.


    He was indebted to Qin Yun for saving his life.


    Yang Jian naturally wanted to help him, but there was no way he could help!


    "Even the Fiend Ancestor has taken action?"


    The existences in the Three Realms were paying close attention to the developments.


    ******


    Inside the Huifeng Great World.


    Qing Shuang was still in a state of shock, shocked that her master was the legendary Sword Immortal Qin.


    "The Fiend Ancestor has already taken action to seal the entire Huifeng Great World." Patriarch Spirit Devouring looked into space and smiled. "Qin Yun no longer has an opportunity to escape."


    "Bind!"


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring roared as phenomenal dark-red array formations immediately produced countless dark-red threads which flew down. They formed a "cocoon" of massive scale. It completely bound the space where Qin Yun and Qing Shuang floated as they rapidly shrank!


    "Master," said Qing Shuang.


    "That''s rather interesting." Qin Yun watched as the dark red cocoon rapidly shrank. However, with a flick of his sleeve, the Misty Rain Sword flew out as three and floated around him.


    "Whoosh~"


    Drizzle-like rain scattered, each raindrop as heavy as a mountain. When the tiny raindrops touched the dark-red threads, the entire "cocoon" was impacted by the rain. Instantly, not only had the cocoon not shrunk, it even got scattered as a result of the impact.


    The Intrinsic Flying Sword''s Misty Rain domain.


    "Impossible." The confident Patriarch Spirit Devouring was appalled when he saw this. "This is an array formation refined by the Fiend Ancestor himself. Even if I were to fend it off, I''d have thirty to forty percent of my strength repressed! According to the plan, Qin Yun required a Misty Rain Array formed by his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure to withstand it. But just a mere domain is able to withstand this array''s might? Even a perfected Great Dao expert''s domain isn''t that powerful!"


    The domain was too powerful.


    It was beyond reason!


    "Something''s amiss." In space, Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body which had personally sealed the Huifeng Great World from the outside was paying constant attention to the battle. When he saw Qin Yun rely on a domain to withstand the erosion of the array formation, he had a nagging feeling that something was amiss.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Accompanied by laughter, a towering figure in no way smaller than the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body walked out of the void. The figure was a black-robed elder and he sent out four divine swords that surrounded the Huifeng Great World''s periphery, covering an area spanning half a million kilometers. A gigantic array formation appeared in the Huifeng Great World. It was a terrifying array formation that had been set up ahead of time¡ªthe Immortal Vanquishing Array that left even Heavenly Dao realm existences ashen.


    "Immortal Vanquishing Array?" Fiend Ancestor frowned when he saw this. He bellowed, "Numinous Treasure, I can''t crack your Immortal Vanquishing Array, but with my obstruction, no other perfected Great Dao expert can enter the Huifeng Great World to save your disciple."


    "Save my disciple?" Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor chortled as he stood there, his terrifying Immortal Vanquishing Array enveloping his surroundings. "Are you mistaken?"


    "Mistaken?" Fiend Ancestor, who was constantly paying attention to the Huifeng Great World, suddenly had a drastic change in expression. "No good!"


    ¡­


    "Go."


    Qin Yun released his Misty Rain Sword and defended against the array formation''s might with his Misty Rain domain.


    Next, with a thought, the three flying sword manifestations of the Misty Rain Sword flew in every direction. The speed was so fast that it drained the color of Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s face. "Why is the flying sword so fast? Are Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasures that fast?"


    Indeed.


    It was too fast!


    Perfected Great Dao existences could fly hundreds of thousands of kilometers in seconds, but if a Connate Cardinal treasure were to be in an assault, its speed would be ten times faster.


    However, Qin Yun''s flying sword was even faster! Even among perfected Great Dao experts in the Three Realms, the speed of Qin Yun''s armaments was definitely ranked as one of the top few.


    It just took a blink of an eye.


    Three flying swords separated as they took their spots in three positions separated by half a million kilometers.


    "Boom!"


    The three swords stemmed from the same source.


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Array activated. Instantly, the half a million kilometer void was plunged into a massive world. This massive world was a manifestation of the dissociation of Heaven, Earth, and Man. There were also various powers like Yin Yang, Life, Limitless, and Decimation that appeared. Clearly, Qin Yun was able to fully express the Misty Rain Sword''s might after attaining a perfected Great Dao.


    When such a terrifying array formation appeared, it left Patriarch Spirit Devouring dazed.


    Faced with the natural evolution of the array formation''s world, he trembled.


    "T-this¡­" He was completely dumbfounded. He had lived since the period of Chaos, so he was very knowledgeable as well.


    The might of the Misty Rain Array was ten times stronger than when Qin Yun battled the avatar of Taowu, one of the Chaos Three Banes! It was a qualitative change. Even normal perfected Great Dao experts would fear such strength. It was indisputable that it was half-step Heavenly Dao realm strength.


    "Half-step Heavenly Dao realm. This is the strength of the half-step Heavenly Dao realm." Patriarch Spirit Devouring found it unbelievable. "H-how is he this strong? T-this¡­"


    He felt aggrieved.


    He had clearly set up a trap to kill Qin Yun.


    But why did it become him being the one trapped in the Misty Rain Array? Furthermore, the might and terror of the Misty Rain Array left him appalled.


    "Daoist Wen, I have recently broken through to the perfected Great Dao realm. I have not had a chance to test my skills all this while." Qin Yun laughed as his voice resounded through the world. "What a coincidence that you are the one dealing with me today. I''ve finally encountered a good opponent. Make sure not to disappoint me by dying after two or three strikes."


    "You broke through to the perfected Great Dao realm?" Even Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s blood-colored brows were trembling.


    Sword immortals were well known for destroying all Dharma with a single sword. They were best in combat.


    A perfected Great Dao sword immortal? It was unprecedented! Furthermore, he had an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand!


    "Then why were you sneaking around, concealing yourself from the heavenly secrets and traveling a Great World incognito?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring said hoarsely. "It was deliberate?"


    "Yes, it was. If I had revealed my strength early, would you have walked into the trap?" Qin Yun''s eyes were cold. "Daoist Wen, your spirit devouring lineage has devoured countless lives. Your sins are heinous. You are doomed! No one in the Three Realms can save you. But no hurry, I''ll remove the Fiend Ancestor''s array formation before killing you."


    Immediately, Misty Rain Sword flashes tore through the Huifeng Great World in a bid to destroy all the nodes in the Fiend Ancestor''s array formation. Now that Daoist Wen was trapped and without anyone being capable of stopping Qin Yun, it was very easy for him to dismantle the array formation.


    This scene left the experts in the Huifeng Great World quivering.


    "Isn''t Patriarch Spirit Devouring here to deal with Qin Yun? Why is he the one being trapped?" Black Wind Sect Master was horrified. "After killing Daoist Wen, will he kill me in passing?"


    Black Wind Sect Master had thought too highly of himself.


    For a trivial character like him, even Qin Yun could not be bothered. The highest priority was to kill Daoist Wen.


    "Half-step Heavenly Dao realm?" On the East Xiao Fiend Mountain in the Huifeng Great World was a palatial complex.


    This was where the Lord of the Huifeng Great World, who was also Hundun of the Chaos Three Bane, resided.


    He was watching everything happen with sweat rolling down his face. "Half-step Heavenly Dao realm? This Qin Yun actually has the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm? Furthermore, it''s so terrifying. If trapped by his array formation, there''s no way to escape at all. Even God King Zhurong isn''t as terrifying as him."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, congratulations." However, Hundun acted very polite on the surface as he sent a voice transmission remotely. "Congratulations for reaching the perfected Great Dao, Sword Immortal Qin. This Daoist Wen is really overconfident. Might I know if there''s any help you need from me? Feel free to ask if there''s any."


    He was not afraid of the Fiend Ancestor or the Dao Ancestors.


    That was because the Heavenly Dao realm experts could not do a thing to him in a Great World.


    Instead, it was half-step Heavenly Dao realm experts that left the Chaos Three Banes most afraid.


    ¡­


    The Fiend Ancestor was confounded.


    Why did this happen? It was originally a plot to kill Qin Yun, but why did it turn to this?


    "There''s my obedient disciple inside. And outside, there''s his master, me, having set up an array. No one in the Three Realms can save this Daoist Wen. He''s doomed," said Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a furtive smile.

 655 Suppression

    The area around the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body rippled as he withstood the might of the Immortal Vanquishing Array.


    "Numinous Treasure." Fiend Ancestor looked at the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure. "I have slipped up this time, but it was not because of you, but Qin Yun. I never expected him to attain a perfected Great Dao in just a few thousand years! To attain a perfected Great Dao¡­ is sufficient to make any cultivator ecstatic. They would instantly have their Dharmic powers and Essence Soul break through. The result would stir the Three Realms, but although Qin Yun was ecstatic, he was able to repress his emotions and plot out a scheme against me."


    "Haha, there''s no reason to regret your failure under such circumstances!" Numinous Treasure was rather delighted.


    "Yes, I fully admit defeat." Fiend Ancestor looked coldly into the Huifeng Great World.


    In fact¡­


    To Qin Yun, the greatest threat was the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. Transcending them would earn him a carefree eternity with his family.


    As for attaining a perfected Great Dao, it only gave his outlook on transcending the tribulations a glimmer of hope. Qin Yun naturally wanted to raise his strength further, which meant making his Intrinsic Flying Sword turn into a Merit Cardinal treasure. By being both a Connate Cardinal treasure and Merit Cardinal treasure, the Misty Rain Sword''s might would reach an even more astounding state. His hopes of surviving the Itinerant Immortal tribulations would be greater.


    He was always seeking for hope to transcend the tribulations; therefore, he came up with a plot the moment he broke through!


    A second opportunity to plot against the fiends would be rare!


    ******


    Meanwhile in the Huifeng Great World, the inside of the massive Misty Rain Array was a brand new world of an equally massive size. That world was even in flux.


    "You want to kill me?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring looked at the Misty Rain Array with eyes filled with rage. "I, Daoist Wen, have survived to cultivate to this day. I have devoured the disciples of the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure and the Buddhist Ancestor''s Merit Gold Lotus. Many want me dead, but I have lived to this day! Yet, a short-lived Itinerant Immortal like you wishes to kill me?"


    Even a rabbit will bite when things turn nasty.


    How could a perfected Great Dao expert surrender?


    "Hum." Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body phased away and shifted into his true form. He was a blood-colored mosquito about 5000 kilometers in size. Its wings were translucent and the moment it shook its wings, it lunged toward the Misty Rain Array''s periphery.


    He was the first mosquito born out of the Chaos.


    He kept a low profile and enjoyed delivering sneak attacks. Through various fortuitous encounters, and his cultivation of Daoism, Buddhism, and the fiendish ways, he finally forged the Spirit Devouring Dao.


    As he charged over, his sharp proboscis which appeared like a needle was actually formed from the combination of six thin needles. They stabbed at the world''s boundary and sucked!


    "Rumble!" The Misty Rain Array''s periphery rumbled when it was stabbed. Sword Qi surged but it remained intact.


    "Oh?"


    While maintaining the Misty Rain Array, and controlling the Misty Rain Sword flashes to destroy the Fiend Ancestor''s array formation, Qin Yun sensed Daoist Wen''s counterattack inside the array. He could not help but prick up his brows. He saw that Daoist Wen had returned to his true form and was frantically attacking different spots in the array formation. Clearly, he was attempting to find the array formation''s weakness.


    "As expected of Daoist Wen. If I were still a pinnacle Itinerant Immortal, he would probably have succeeded in cracking my Misty Rain Array with his first attack." Qin Yun thought. "However, I have long broken through. The Misty Rain Array is the technique I have put in the most effort in. It''s meant to withstand the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, so to think one move could crack it?"


    Qin Yun was in no rush.


    He even looked forward to finding weaknesses in his array formation through Daoist Wen''s counterattacks.


    However, even if there were weaknesses, the array formation produced by his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was not something Daoist Wen could crack.


    "Obliterate." Qin Yun looked into the distant land as more than ten Misty Rain Sword beams swept over. Finally, they blew up the ground and dug up an array disk from deep within.


    ¡­


    While Qin Yun was patiently destroying the Fiend Ancestor''s array formation, he temporarily sent his disciple, Qing Shuang, to the Wei Nation''s capital.


    "Qing Shuang, I''ll probably take some time to kill this Daoist Wen. I won''t be able to divert my attention to taking care of you," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "Master, don''t mind me," said Qing Shuang immediately.


    She stood above the Wei Nation and felt her mind turn adrift.


    "Sister Qing Shuang." A voice sounded as Princess Wei Ran flew to her side.


    "Princess Wei Ran," said Qing Shuang.


    "I never expected Daoist Feng to be the legendary Sword Immortal Qin," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring. "Furthermore, Sword Immortal Qin''s strength has reached an unfathomable state. The fiends have two lineages that are called fiends among fiends¡ªthe sea of blood lineage and the spirit-devouring lineage. Now the spirit-devouring lineage''s Patriarch Spirit Devouring is entrapped by Sword Immortal Qin and seems to be in a perilous situation."


    Princess Wei Ran had a strong backer, so she knew much about the important figures in the Three Realms.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring?


    That was an existence that the Grand Supreme lineage feared.


    "Sword Immortal Qin''s conjuring of the sword array instantly encompassed half a million kilometers, and suppresses an area of the Great World," Princess Wei Ran marveled. "His strength really knows no bounds."


    Qing Shuang felt rather proud when she heard that since Sword Immortal Qin was her master.


    "Congratulations, Sister Qing Shuang, for being a disciple of Sword Immortal Qin." Princess Wei Ran smiled. "Your future will be limitless."


    "I never expected this either. Master had been kind back then to save my life and impart to me his sword arts," Qing Shuang said. Following that, she turned to smile at Princess Wei Ran. "Princess Wei Ran, perhaps all the mighty figures in the Huifeng Great World are aware of Master''s identity. Master has decided on the Wei Nation''s future, so I''m guessing that no one will dare interfere with his decision."


    Princess Wei Ran nodded with a smile.


    She was previously worried, worried about the Black Wind Fiend Sect and the other fiendish factions. Now, she was worriless.


    Sword Immortal Qin''s words were no doubt enough to shock and awe.


    ******


    Moments later.


    Qin Yun uprooted the entirety of the Fiend Ancestor''s array formation. Without the array formation''s influence, the Misty Rain domain''s might was no longer hindered as it began to bind Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    "Why is this domain so powerful?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring felt that even flapping his wings was tiring. With the endless bindings and repression, he could only produce a portion of his strength. However, his sharp proboscis did not fall in strength. It stabbed at the Misty Rain Array world in an attempt to penetrate it.


    "Daoist Wen, I''ve allowed you so many attempts. It''s time for me to attack," Qin Yun said. "Tornado."


    "Whoosh~"


    The Misty Rain Array world seemed to usher in the apocalypse as countless Sword Qi transformed into violent winds that swept through the world within. Every spot was ground to dust.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring was also caught in the middle of the Sword Qi tornadoes as they continually battered him.


    "Darn it." Patriarch Spirit Devouring surroundings naturally turned into a black hole vortex. He crazily devoured all the Sword Qi tornadoes that came at him, but there were just too many of them. Soon, they flooded the black hole vortex and began assaulting his body.


    His body was fine except his abdomen, which began showing signs of damage from the lacerations, but the wounds also rapidly healed.


    "Suppress!" Qin Yun cast another move of this Misty Rain Array.


    The tornadoes in the Misty Rain Array world dissipated as black clouds appeared in the sky. They were formed from billions of Sword Qi as the cloud took on the form of a palm.


    Boom!


    The palm came swatting down.


    With Heaven, Earth, and Man as one, the entire world''s powers were directed into that suppressive swat.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring had nowhere to hide, so all he could do was fend it off directly. As his wings flapped, black hole vortices appeared around him.


    "Bam!"


    When the dark cloud palm formed out of the billion Sword Qi swatted down, Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body was smashed flat as purple blood spewed out from his mouth. However, his body rapidly recovered.


    "You won''t be able to kill me. You won''t!" Patriarch Spirit Devouring looked up and glared at the gigantic black cloud palm.


    "Seven Star Vanquishment!"


    Qin Yun had already infused the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao.


    In the Misty Rain Array world, seven stars appeared in the shape of the Big Dipper.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The stars crashed towards Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    The first star''s might was about thirty percent of the previous black cloud palm strike, but with seven consecutive stars, they connected into a combo, each being stronger than the other.


    The barrage of attacks caused Patriarch Spirit Devouring to wrap his wings around him to protect his body while withstanding the blows with great difficulty.


    The stars crashed down with an apocalyptic rage, causing Patriarch Spirit Devouring to spew out blood three times from the seven blows. His eyes were filled with insanity as he looked up and let out a jarring roar. "Qin Yun, you won''t be able to kill me. You won''t!"


    The mighty figures of the Three Realms were all watching this scene.


    Upon seeing Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s hysteria, many fiends felt a sadness for the loss of their kind. When they thought about how Qin Yun abhorred evil and would eventually come for them, their hearts palpitated in fear. "This Qin Yun will not transcend his Itinerant Immortal tribulations. He will definitely die." If Qin Yun were to really transcend his Itinerant Immortal tribulations, the fiends would have a bleak future ahead of them.


    "You sure cultivated your body well. You are even able to withstand the Seven Stars Vanquishment," Qin Yun nodded and said. "From the looks of it, I still have to rely on the array formation refined by Master. Fiend Annihilation Array, arise!"


    Every corner of the Huifeng Great World quaked.


    Simultaneously, black chains condensed from the void. A total of thirty-six black chains extended over from every corner of the Huifeng Great World, tearing through the firmaments. Each of them bound Patriarch Spirit Devouring, who was already barely holding up from the Misty Rain Array''s suppression. He had no way to dodge.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    The thirty-six black chains bound Patriarch Spirit Devouring, locking down the five-thousand-kilometer wide mosquito.

 656 Huifeng Great Worlds Legend

    Completely locked down, Patriarch Spirit Devouring struggled desperately, but wave after wave of forces seeped into his body through the chains, increasing the pain Patriarch Spirit Devouring suffered.


    "Obliterate."


    Seven stars descended once again, smashing onto Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body one after another. However, his translucent wings expanded in size and wrapped his entire body. He buried his head under his wings'' protection since, under the thirty-six chains'' lock down, all Patriarch Spirit Devouring could do was bear the brunt of the assaults.


    The blows left him trembling all over. His abdomen and various other spots were bleeding, but they rapidly healed at a discernible pace.


    "T-to think that I have been reduced to this state." Patriarch Spirit Devouring silently endured, but his eyes were filled with insanity. "I''ve cultivated for so many years, but all I can amount to is suffering a beating?"


    Mixed emotions from depression to anger filled his heart.


    But as a perfected Great Dao expert, Patriarch Spirit Devouring had never thought of giving up.


    "Qin Yun."


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring roared, "It''s true I never expected you, as an Itinerant Immortal, would be able to reach the half-step Heavenly Dao realm in just a few thousand years. It was my underestimation of you, and I deserve my downfall because of that! But even if you are at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, all you can do is repress me. Killing me is nothing but a dream!"


    "You sure are tenacious when you are already on the brink of death." Qin Yun controlled his Misty Rain Array as well as the Fiend Annihilation Array to their full potential. Stars barraged his enemy with terrifying might.


    "I do not have the power to fight back," roared Patriarch Spirit Devouring, "but my body has long been cultivated to match that of a Connate Numinous treasure! My wings have been cultivated to match that of a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure. It''s impossible for you to keep up this array formation forever, right? You will need to cultivate, won''t you? All you have is about three thousand years. You won''t be able to kill me! You won''t!"


    Qin Yun ignored his angry bellows. All he did was frown slightly.


    As he repeated Seven Star Vanquishment, Qin Yun got a deeper understanding of how terrifying Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body was.


    "This Daoist Wen''s body sure is powerful," Qin Yun thought. "Cultivators of the spirit-devouring lineage will cultivate a part of their body to an extremely powerful state. Daoist Wen''s strongest part is his sharp proboscis. It''s in no way inferior to a Connate Cardinal treasure. Legend has it that Daoist Wen, who has reached a perfected Great Dao, has always been attempting to cultivate the rest of his body to match that of a Connate Cardinal treasure. If he really manages to do so, perhaps even the Heavenly Dao realm existences would only be able to repress him and not kill him.


    "From the looks of it, most of his body matches that of an ordinary Connate Numinous treasure. It''s easy to damage it, but his wings match that of a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure. They protect his entire body. It will be easy to repress him, but it''s indeed difficult to kill him."


    Every perfected Great Dao existence had something they were most adept in.


    Apart from having the best proboscis in the Three Realms, Daoist Wen could also cultivate another body part to an extremely powerful state. Although he had not yet cultivated for long enough to do so. Given another few million years, it was possible that the rest of his body could match a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure. If that happened, he could be said to be unkillable under the Heavenly Dao realm.


    But even so¡­


    Qin Yun was still facing difficulty in trying to kill him.


    "Oh?"


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure who had set up the Immortal Vanquishing Array outside the Huifeng Great World also noticed this fact. He knitted his brows slightly.


    "Disciple, it''s true that this Daoist Wen has cultivated his body to a rather strong state. With your present strength, how long will it take to kill him?" inquired Numinous Treasure.


    "Master, if I were to attack with Seven Star Vanquishment with all my strength while being supplemented with the Fiend Annihilation Array''s refinement abilities¡­ it will take me eight centuries without any rest for me to kill him," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    "Eight centuries?" Numinous Treasure frowned and replied, "Daoist Wen is right. It''s impossible for you to power the array formation at full strength the entire time. You need to cultivate as well. You are still about three thousand years away from the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation. Wasting eight hundred years on him isn''t worth it."


    "Master."


    Qin Yun was working out a scheme as he sent a voice transmission. "In order to deal with the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, I have studied the Misty Rain Array and spent the most amount of effort on defense. I didn''t pay too much attention to the offensive capabilities of the Misty Rain Array¡­ Therefore, I''ve decided to temporarily trap this Daoist Wen while I study over ways to make the Misty Rain Array deadlier. If my offensive means are strengthened, killing Daoist Wen would happen a lot faster.


    "Also, I believe that although it might not be right to spend all these years on offensive measures, defense and offense are just two sides of the same coin! Perhaps pondering over offensive means might be helpful to my defensive cultivation as well," said Qin Yun.


    "Okay." The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure nodded slightly.


    "I plan on cultivating for a thousand years first. If I''m unable to drastically improve my offensive means in that period, I''m willing to spend eight hundred years bombarding him day and night till he is vanquished! I''ll gladly give up eight hundred years to kill him," said Qin Yun. "Ridding the Three Realms of Patriarch Spirit Devouring would free us of a major fiend. It''s an astounding amount of merit. With all that merit augmentation, my Intrinsic Flying Sword will have a chance of becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure. Eight hundred years is worth it for that.


    "However, I''ll need you to stay guarding outside the Huifeng Great World the entire time. I''m sorry, Master."


    "These are your decisions to make. Don''t worry about me," Numinous Treasure said with a voice transmission. "One or two thousand years is nothing to me."


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun had already made up his mind.


    He planned on using the Fiend Annihilation Array to trap Daoist Wen and set up the Misty Rain Array without attacking him. Instead, he sat cross-legged on a cloud and began cultivating.


    After consuming Samsara Dew, he would figure out new offensive means with the Misty Rain Array. Occasionally, he would test them out on Daoist Wen.


    Killing a perfected Great Dao existence was very difficult.


    Although Daoist Wen had the best proboscis in the Three Realms, he was still killable given time. In contrast, attacking the weaker Patriarch Blood Sea, whose Boundless Blood Sea was part of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, would never bear results. Even Heavenly Dao realm existences could not truly vanquish him, much less Qin Yun. This was the different advantages of different people.


    Daoist Wen''s life-preservation means appeared very powerful, but it was only considered typical among perfected Great Dao existences. He could only be considered equal to the Chaos Three Banes.


    Compared to Mahamayuri, Rushou, Fuxishi and others, he was far inferior.


    ¡­


    "This Qin Yun is an Itinerant Immortal. He only has three thousand plus years left to his twelfth tribulation. I want to see how many years he will spend to kill Patriarch Spirit Devouring." Fiend Ancestor sneered. He remained outside the Huifeng Great World to prevent other perfected Great Dao existences from entering the Huifeng Great World.


    After all, just Qin Yun alone would take a very long time killing Daoist Wen.


    If more powerful helpers came, things would get different.


    Fiend Ancestor was still thinking of every possible means to save Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    ¡­


    "He is also a patriarch, a perfected Great Dao existence, but he''s being locked down and repressed. He might even be refined to death. Pitiful, lamentable, and deplorable."


    "This Qin Yun sure is powerful. Having just become a perfected Great Dao, he is already at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. It reminds me of Hou Yi. Hou Yi also had a half-step Heavenly Dao realm strength the moment he became a perfected Great Dao existence. Now, his bow and arrow can even match that of a Heavenly Dao realm."


    People sighed wistfully.


    They lamented over Qin Yun''s strength, as he had become one of the few strongest existences beneath the Heavenly Dao realm.


    They lamented the pitiful state which Daoist Wen was in. Despite his stature, he was being repressed in lock down. He was even close to death.


    ******


    Days passed one after another.


    A few ancient existences could tell that Qin Yun had only repressed Daoist Wen. He did not fully attempt to refine Daoist Wen away; instead, he was cultivating!


    "I''ll wait. You only have three thousand plus years left. I''ll be freed when you die due to the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. I''ll still lead an eternal life." Patriarch Spirit Devouring waited patiently in his prison.


    "Boom!"


    A crescent fell from the sky. It was extremely sharp as it lacerated Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    "Testing another move? It''s useless." Patriarch Spirit Devouring scoffed.


    He was already accustomed to his life of repression. Attacks would descend upon him occasionally every three to five days, or a month or two at times. Clearly, they were moves that Qin Yun was testing out.


    The Huifeng Great World continued operating as usual, but when the people of the Great World looked up, they would see thirty-six chains reaching across the firmaments. They were like the sun or the moon, which the Huifeng Great World residents eventually became extremely familiar with.


    There were even some mortals who were born to see the thirty-six chains in the sky. Even when they died of age, the thirty-six chains remained. It was as though the thirty-six firmament chains¡­ were something that naturally existed in their world.


    In a blink of an eye, 160 years had passed.


    "These thirty-six Fiend Annihilation chains are said to be set up by the mighty figure, Sword Immortal Qin. They''re being used to imprison a powerful fiend." On an immortal boat, a Skyimmortal led his sect''s disciples on an expedition. "This array formation is so huge that it spans the entire Huifeng Great World. This is testimony to how expansive Sword Immortal Qin''s Dharmic powers are."


    "Uncle-Master, why doesn''t Sword Immortal Qin kill the fiend directly? Why is he using so much effort to imprison the fiend?" a disciple asked, puzzled.


    "That''s because the fiend is too powerful," explained the Skyimmortal with a smile. "All of you should be aware that among the fiends, there are two lineages known as fiend among fiends."


    "The spirit-devouring lineage and sea of blood lineage," answered a disciple immediately.


    "Yes, legend has it¡­ the imprisoned fiend is the founder of the spirit-devouring lineage," said the Skyimmortal. "He''s one of the most terrifying fiends in the Three Realms. That is why an array formation that envelops an entire Great World is used for his imprisonment. As for us, there''s no way for us to communicate with the outside world or leave it. It''s because the entire Huifeng Great World is sealed! It''s all to imprison and repress that one fiend."


    "Sealing off an entire Great World just to repress a fiend?"


    "Our Huifeng Great World has become a cage to trap that fiend?"


    The disciples found it inexplicable.


    They were only at the Essence Soul realm, so they felt such means were completely unfathomable.


    Moving the mountains to fill the sea¡­


    Such matters were nothing compared to the imprisonment they saw before them.


    The Skyimmortal laughed and said, "Also, according to legend, Sword Immortal Qin is presently inside the array, constantly refining away that fiend."


    "Sword Immortal Qin is inside the array?"


    "Is that Sword Immortal Qin able to see us?"


    The disciples looked fervently at the array and imagined the peerless mighty figure within.


    Above the Huifeng Great World.


    Inside the Misty Rain Array.


    Qin Yun was seated on clouds as he slowly opened his eyes. He looked down at the immortal boat that flew past before smiling.

 657 Pleading For Mercy

    "It''s been 160 years." Qin Yun looked at Patriarch Spirit Devouring who was being repressed inside the array. "The Misty Rain Array offensive moves I''ve figured out have only improved slightly. Even if I were to drain him down at full strength all day and night, I can only reduce his time until death to 600 years."


    Although the improvement was tiny, Qin Yun already had the means to drain Patriarch Spirit Devouring to death. Every slight increase in strength greatly reduced the required time.


    "I''ll first enjoy a diversion to change my state of mind." Qin Yun thought he should do something physically active after the period of prolonged inaction. At times, enjoying a diversion was conducive for cultivation when cultivating arduously with little progress.


    "Oh, right.


    "I came to the Huifeng Great World not just to lay a trap. My other goal was to do good and accumulate merit. I changed the Wei Nation and over the past hundred plus years, the Wei Nation''s people have lived prosperous and contented lives. I also have accrued merit. However, the source of the Wei Nation''s tragedy was the Black Wind Fiend Sect! All I did was save the Wei Nation. The sect still has its influence in other dominions¡­ that I have yet to take care of.


    "To treat an illness, it has to be cured at its roots. Only then will the healing truly begin.


    "Now that my strength has been exposed, there''s no need for me to be so careful in my actions. I''ll first rid the illness at its roots." Qin Yun made the decision. "Yes, I''ll spend half a day ridding the Huifeng Great World of all these ills! Besides, both Master and I have sealed both the inside and outside of the Huifeng Great World. Those fiends have had nowhere to flee to all these years."


    He commanded with his mind.


    With a wave of his hand, sword beams flew out in every direction of the Huifeng Great World.


    ¡­


    Black Wind Fiend Sect.


    "I hope that Sword Immortal Qin will leave the Huifeng Great World as soon as possible. There''s also Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. Leave quickly and stop sealing the Huifeng Great World. I can''t leave even if I want to." Black Wind Sect Master stood in the yard, having felt uneasy all these years. He had no way to feel peaceful as long as he could not extricate himself from the precarious situation.


    For 160 years, he lived in horror and unease.


    He was afraid of the day¡­ when Qin Yun would think of him and deliver a blow at him!


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Three sword beams flew from the sky and entered the Black Wind Fiend Sect''s array formation. The Black Wind Fiend Sect had activated its protective array formations years ago when this began, but they were like tofu in the face of the three sword beams, easily giving way as a result.


    "No good!" Black Wind Sect Master''s face suddenly paled.


    The sword beams were extremely sharp.


    Black Wind Sect Master sensed it immediately and guessed at the attacker''s identity.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me! I''m also from the Green Touring Palace lineage!" Black Wind Sect Master yelled immediately. Three sword beams had already flown nearby and were hovering above the yard.


    "Oh, you are from the Green Touring Palace lineage?" A phantom condensed beside the three sword beams, an avatar of Qin Yun''s. He coldly looked at Black Wind Sect Master. "You are plagued with sins. With such grievous sins¡­ who from my Green Touring Palace lineage would take you?"


    Black Wind Sect Master bowed when he saw the situation develop. "Yes, I know I''m plagued with grievous sins. Ever since Sword Immortal Qin took action in the Wei Nation, I knew how wrong I was. For the past 160 years, I have been amassing merit. I''ve even killed all the sects'' Skyfiends who cultivated in the fiendish ways! My Black Wind Sect is now a Daoist sect. It does not have a single Skyfiend."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    He had been focused on cultivation all these years, so he had not paid attention to the Black Wind Fiend Sect''s situation.


    "My Black Wind Sect now follows strict rules. I have also given the order for the entire sect to amass merit. It has made it so countless mortals lead better days," said Black Wind Sect Master immediately. "Because of my repentance, Master Golden Light was willing to take me in as his disciple." Although he had been trapped in the Huifeng Great World, as a mighty figure, he also had avatars outside. He had thought of means to come under Golden Light''s tutelage.


    "Immortal Golden Light?" Qin Yun scoffed. "I was wondering who from the Green Touring Palace lineage would take you in as a disciple considering your grievous sins. So it''s Immortal Golden Light."


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Senior Brother Qin. Senior Brother Qin." A golden-haired Daoist flew to Mt. Lightning Roar and shouted loudly. He was beaming and wore an amiable look.


    "Halt."


    The fog around Mt. Lightning Roar condensed a Guardian General.


    The Guardian General sternly bellowed. "My master is currently dealing with Patriarch Spirit Devouring. His avatar is in seclusion as well. He is not to be disturbed and isn''t accepting visitors."


    "Senior Brother Qin, I know you can hear me," shouted the golden-haired Daoist. "Please allow my disciple Black Wind to have a chance to show his repentance on account of me."


    ¡­


    "Uncle-Master Qin, please spare my life. I know I was at fault. I''ve repented." Black Wind Sect Master pleaded as he knelt down.


    Qin Yun''s phantom avatar looked at him and said coldly, "Uncle-Master? I''m no uncle-master of yours. Immortal Golden Light is a Buddhist, not one of my Green Touring Palace lineage. No one from my Green Touring Palace lineage would accept someone which such grievous sins."


    "I will definitely do good in the future," yelled Black Wind Sect Master immediately. "I''ll not do evil anymore. Please, allow me a chance to live."


    "You have wreaked havoc for so long. Countless lives who died because of you also wished for a chance to live. But you didn''t give them one; yet, you wish to have it?" Just as Qin Yun finished his sentence, the three sword beams descended.


    "No!" Black Wind Sect Master widened his mouth and blew out a black wind in a bid to resist.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    It was futile. The three sword beams tore through the black wind and struck Black Wind Sect Master''s body, pulverizing him.


    Qin Yun watched the scene coldly.


    Black Wind Fiend Sect had wreaked havoc across many dominions. Sins would usually be accumulated on the disciples that did evil, but in fact, how a sect acted and the culture it had was determined by the sect master!


    Even though only a tiny smidgen of the evil that his disciples did tainted the sect master, over time, Black Wind Sect Master''s sins accumulated to an astounding level.


    For others to call it the Black Wind Fiend Sect, it was obvious how it acted.


    "There is retribution for everything you did. You won''t be able to escape with me here," said Qin Yun''s avatar before dissipating. The three sword beams rapidly tore through the air and disappeared.


    ¡­


    "What? Fellow Daoist Black Wind is dead?"


    "Black Wind Sect Master is dead?"


    "That Sword Immortal Qin plans to start a massacre in my Huifeng Great World?"


    Black Wind Sect Master was not the only mighty figure in the Huifeng Great World who was plagued with sins. They were also afraid, but they faced the same problem¡ªthe Huifeng Great World was sealed both inside and outside. There was no way to escape.


    The death of Black Wind Sect Master had truly frightened them.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    One mighty figure after another came from Green Touring Palace.


    "Please pass the message that Yang Yun is here to pay Senior Brother Qin a visit."


    "We are here to visit Senior Brother Qin."


    The Guardian General looked at the mighty figures before him and remained stoic. He said sternly, "Master has said that he is currently dealing with Patriarch Spirit Devouring. His avatar is in seclusion and not to be disturbed. He will not entertain anyone."


    "This Senior Brother of ours won''t take us into consideration," said Immortal Golden Light with curled lips.


    "Golden Light, you also addressing Senior Brother Qin as senior brother? I don''t recall you being one of Green Touring Palace''s disciples." Immortal Qiu Shou scoffed. "Didn''t you willingly choose to follow Guan Yin? Back when I tried to persuade you to return to Green Touring Palace, you had no intention to return."


    "Daoist Golden Light, you are a Buddhist. We are Daoist disciples of the Green Touring Palace. We do not deserve being called your senior or junior brothers," said another mighty figure from the side.


    Immortal Golden Light''s face twitched when he heard that. He scoffed and immediately flew off.


    During the conflict between the three Daoist lineages, he had been captured by Daoist Ci Hang as a mount. After which, he became a Buddhist.


    Later on, there was the Daoist-Fiend war.


    The three Daoist lineages entered a truce and the Daoists and Buddhists joined forces to deal with the fiends. The enslaved Green Touring Palace disciples were released. For example, Immortal Qiu Shou later returned to Green Touring Palace and was no longer a mount.


    But there were a few who chose not to return.


    One of them was Immortal Golden Light.


    As he had followed Guan Yin, head of the four major Bodhisattvas, who was the only perfected Great Dao existence among the Bodhisattvas. Guan Yin enjoyed an extremely high status among the Buddhists and being able to follow a perfected Great Dao expert was a joyous occasion. After all, Guan Yin was a huge backer. In Great Worlds¡­ perfected Great Dao experts were the most powerful. Furthermore, the Buddhists had deep heritages. Even the Green Touring Palace''s Eldest Senior Brother chose to cultivate as a Buddhist. In terms of heritage and might, the Buddhists were stronger than the Green Touring Palace lineage.


    Previously, the Green Touring Palace lineage only had Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain as its sole perfected Great Dao existence. It made its reputation lower.


    Since Immortal Golden Light did not return, it naturally hurt the pride of the Green Touring Palace mighty figures. Those with good tempers could give him face, but the ones with bad tempers could not even be bothered with him.


    "Hmph, what''s the meaning of this? The Green Touring Palace lineage only had Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain back then. Now that it has an additional half-step Heavenly Dao realm Sword Immortal Qin, it seems impressive, but how much longer can he live?" Immortal Golden Light scoffed secretly as he flew far away.


    And at Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun''s avatar appeared eventually. There were indeed many of his fellow disciples waiting outside for him.


    "Senior Brother Qin." His fellow disciples were all very warm. Immortal Qiu Shou immediately shouted, "Senior Brother Qin, your repression of Patriarch Spirit Devouring has truly delighted us fellow disciples. By the way, we are also here to congratulate you for stepping into the perfected Great Dao."


    "Congratulations, Senior Brother for stepping into the perfected Great Dao." His fellow disciples congratulated him with a look of delight.


    The sect''s disciples shared a common heritage, so glory for one was glory for all.


    An additional half-step Heavenly Dao realm meant that the Green Touring Palace''s might was different.


    "Everyone, are you here to see me because of those mighty figures in the Huifeng Great World?" Qin Yun smiled as he looked at them.


    "Senior Brother Qin, the mighty figures of the Huifeng Great World have requested our help. There are some among them with not-so-serious sins."


    "They are willing to come under our Green Touring Palace as well," they said immediately.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "Everyone, apart from the Lord of the Huifeng Great World, there are seven mighty figures. They usually act wantonly. There are three of them who have particularly grievous sins. Those three have to be killed. As for the other four, I would not kill them. I''m not one who would kill indiscriminately."


    "Killing three of seven? Nearly half?"


    "Senior Brother Qin truly abhors evil like the rumors say," thought his fellow disciples. Since Qin Yun had given his decision, it was not in their place to say anything further.


    "Junior Brothers and Junior Sisters, I have to continue my seclusion. I won''t be entertaining you further," said Qin Yun.


    "Senior Brother Qin, there''s no need to worry about us."


    "Senior Brother Qin, your matters are of greater importance," said each one of them passionately.


    Qin Yun''s avatar nodded, returned to Mt. Lightning Roar, and continued his seclusion.

 658 Switching Allegiance

    East Xiao Fiend Mountain in the Huifeng Great World was the residence of Hundun, one of the Chaos Three Banes.


    "Brother Hundun, save us."


    "Brother Hundun, you can''t watch us die."


    "Qin Yun has already killed Black Wind. He''s probably about to attack us at any moment. Brother Hundun, you have to save us." A few mighty figure avatars rushed to the palace and pleaded outside. All of them were gripped with anxiety and horror. They were thinking of means to live, having pleaded with the mighty figures of Green Touring Palace, as well as seeking the leaders of the faction they belonged to.


    But regardless of their pleas, Hundun refused to meet any of them.


    Suddenly, the avatars were slightly taken aback as they received news.


    "Qin Yun said that he will kill three of the seven mighty figures in the Huifeng Great World?"


    "The three with the most heinous of sins¡­"


    The avatars exchanged looks. For them to be willing to seek the patronage of one of the Chaos Three Banes, Hundun, they were either bloodthirsty and intractable or cold and aloof. Among them, there were many that acted wantonly in doing evil, plaguing them with sins. As for the cold and aloof ones, they could not be bothered with ants; thus, they had lesser sins.


    "Including Black Wind, three are to be killed? If so, my sins do not place me in the top three."


    "Top three?"


    "I''m ranked¡­ third?"


    The avatars began arranging themselves. As mighty figures of the Huifeng Great World, they knew their merits and sins very well; therefore, they easily deduced their order.


    "Hahaha¡­ I escaped this calamity. I will definitely do more good and accumulate merit in the future." An avatar laughed as it immediately dissipated.


    "Cang Chou, we have been at odds for so many years; but now that you are about to die, I feel like I''ll kinda miss you," another avatar said deliberately.


    Soon.


    There were only two avatars left outside the palace. They were ranked within the top three in terms of sin apart from Black Wind.


    "Brother Hundun! Before the Three Realms even existed, I, Cang Chou have been following you. Are you going to watch as Qin Yun kills me? No! Qin Yun''s sword beam has reached my cave abode! Brother Hundun! Save me!!" The Chaos Godfiend avatar named Cang Chou revealed a look of horror. "Hundun, I was blind to seek your patronage¡ª"


    As he cursed angrily, his figure dissipated as his true body was killed.


    "What a joke. Ridiculous, to think you call yourself one of the Chaos Three Banes. You are hiding away from fear of a junior." Another mighty figure avatar scoffed before his figure dissipated completely.


    ¡­


    "The three of them are all dead."


    Inside his palace, Hundun sat on his throne, watching the outside with his cold eyes. In his sights was the repressed Daoist Wen.


    "Three idiots. How could I offend Qin Yun because of you?" Hundun said softly. "Qin Yun only has three thousand plus years before his final Itinerant Immortal tribulation. There''s no reason why I should be at odds with him at this moment of time. The three of you should rest in peace!"


    ¡­


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    Sword beams flew across the horizon of the Huifeng Great World. Wherever they landed, a fiend was slain.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, spare me."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, as a perfected Great Dao, you are killing a junior like me?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you are being a bully!"


    The fiends either pleaded for mercy or cursed in despair.


    However, the sword beams that fell from the sky showed no mercy. All of them were slain.


    While Qin Yun killed the three mighty figures with the most heinous of sins, he also wiped out all the late-stage Skyfiends in the Huifeng Great World¡ªa total of thirty-seven.


    Late-stage Skyfiends or Skyimmortals would preside over a Small World. In contrast, their dominion in a Great World was much smaller. The fiends in the Small Worlds rejoiced, for if they were trapped in a Great World, they could only be slaughtered by Qin Yun. In Small Worlds, they could do as they pleased.


    There was nothing Qin Yun could do either. After becoming a mighty figure, he too could not enter a Small World with his true body. He could do nothing to the Skyfiends in the Small Worlds.


    He was once invincible in the Small Worlds, allowing him to sweep through the twenty-six dominions. It left the Fiend Ancestor helpless.


    Now, he was in a similar situation. There was nothing he could do to powerful figures in Small Worlds.


    ******


    Inside the Misty Rain Array.


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a cloud motionless all this while. All he did was release his sword beam to sweep through the Huifeng Great World. The ones who survived were so afraid that they reined in their factions and did not dare to do any horrendous acts of evil. As such, the general mood in the Huifeng Great World changed drastically.


    "Oh?"


    "Nearly ten mighty figures have switched allegiances? One of them is willing to turn over a new leaf and become a Buddhist? Three went to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and decided to be a fiend?" Qin Yun pricked up his brow. "These mighty figures sure are alert. They are afraid that I might head to the other Great Worlds to deal with them after I leave the Huifeng Great World."


    According to the standards established by the deaths of Black Wind and the other two in the Huifeng Great World, the mighty figures with sufficiently grievous sins were naturally afraid!


    It all depended on if their backer was powerful enough!


    If they weren''t powerful enough, they had to switch allegiances! Heading to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss was very safe. There, the Fiend Ancestor was invincible! But they would forever be entwined with the fiendish way. The fiends were at the complete disadvantage in the Three Realms, so only three were willing to switch allegiance to the fiends. As for switching to Daoism? The three Daoist lineages greatly detested those with grievous sins. Instead, it was the Buddhists who left a sliver of hope to these wicked figures who had their hands stained with blood. They were made to turn over a new leaf and do good so as to correct their faults.


    "It''s very good that I can scare them, causing many mighty figures to rein in their subordinates, reducing the number of wicked acts," thought Qin Yun. No one was omnipotent. Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were helpless against the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss as it was part of the Three Realms. It was the amalgamation of all the resentment, sin, and foulness from the countless living beings in the Three Realms. If the living remained, the fiendish way remained, and the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss would remain eternal.


    Qin Yun was unable to wipe out the fiends; all he could do was repress them. This was also why the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were working hard at it.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun engaged in his massacre that caused a stir among the mighty figures in the Three Realms, he continued his cultivation to produce offensive moves for his Misty Rain Array.


    Years passed one by one.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure and the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body were very patient. They continued staying guard outside the Huifeng Great World. A few thousand years was equivalent to a nap to them.


    Qin Yun also continued his cultivation.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring waited silently in his repressed state, waiting for the day he could break free.


    In a blink of an eye¡­


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring was repressed for 363 years. The thirty-six chains that covered the Huifeng Great World''s firmaments had stood there for 363 years.


    Inside the Misty Rain Array, the cross-legged Qin Yun finally opened his eyes. There was a burning glow in them.


    "Although the Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man is good at defense, it can similarly kill. I spent 360 years to finally figure out the Three Absolutes Seven Stars. It should be much more powerful than the Seven Star Vanquishment from before. Killing Daoist Wen will probably be quick now." Qin Yun looked at the repressed Patriarch Spirit Devouring. "Let me try out the might of this move."


    With a thought, the killing array arose!


    "Oh?"


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring, who had been sealed by the thirty-six chains, could not help but open his eyes when he sensed the fluctuation. He looked down and saw billions of Sword Qi amass beneath him into a massive vortex. The vortex was slowly rising in a bid to devour him.


    "Another test? The number of tests Qin Yun has been throwing at me is decreasing. The last time he did a test was two years ago." Patriarch Spirit Devouring was long accustomed to it. Like always, he protected his body with his wings before looking at the Sword Qi vortex beneath him rise up.


    The Sword Qi vortex was deep and dark as it slowly rose.


    As it rose, it gradually closed the distance on Patriarch Spirit Devouring. He instinctively felt unease as he felt that the Sword Qi vortex was different from the tests from before.


    "Hmph, at Qin Yun''s level, how hard is it to raise one''s strength?" thought Patriarch Spirit Devouring. "His test of this move is definitely a waste of effort."


    As the vortex continued rising, it finally enveloped him completely.


    Three different forces began to permeate Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body.


    "T-this force¡­" Patriarch Spirit Devouring only felt slight pain and a heavy feeling, but at that moment, seven stars appeared in the Sword Qi vortex. The seven stars bombarded him, each blow being extremely heavy.


    There were both exterior and interior forces.


    The three interior forces left Patriarch Spirit Devouring in pain, while the seven stars smashed at him repeatedly.


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring could no longer put up with the blows as he spat out blood. His abdomen and bottom began to crack on the surface as blood oozed out from his wounds.


    "This might?" Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s eyes revealed a look of despair. "I''m doomed, doomed!"

 659 Source of Meri

    "I was born out of the Chaos and have reigned supreme in the Three Realms to this day. Countless have feared and revered me. Many hate me as well. I have eaten the Dao Ancestors'' beloved disciples and even a portion of the Buddhist Ancestor''s Merit Gold Lotus. Yet, they couldn''t do a thing to me. Who knew¡­" Patriarch Spirit Devouring gradually composed himself. Who knew as I belittled this Qin Yun, thinking that killing him was in the bag, that my carelessness would lead to my fall!"


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring was well known to be crafty and careful. Nothing happened when he did not take action, but whenever he took action, it would be swift and ruthless.


    A life of carefulness; yet, a moment of carelessness caused him to lose his life.


    "Yes, the Misty Rain Array''s Three Absolutes Seven Stars killer move is as I expected. The might is much greater, seventy to eighty percent stronger than the Seven Star Vanquishment." Qin Yun revealed a look of glee. "I believe I''ll be able to drain this Patriarch Spirit Devouring to death within three months."


    At times, all it takes is the last straw to break the camel''s back.


    Qin Yun''s original strength was something Patriarch Spirit Devouring withstood with great difficulty. Every ten percent increase in strength rose the pressure on him exponentially. Now that the might had increased by seventy to eighty percent, Qin Yun believed that he could definitely kill him within three months. That was already a very conservative estimate.


    "Qin Yun!" Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s massive body let out a rumbling voice.


    "Daoist Wen." Qin Yun looked at his captive.


    "After I established the spirit-devouring lineage, I thought I was immortal, that no one in the Three Realms could think of killing me," said Patriarch Spirit Devouring heavily. "I never expected to fall under you, an Itinerant Immortal. There''s nothing else worth saying. You attained a perfected Great Dao in a few thousand years after becoming an Itinerant Immortal. You also possess the only Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms. My loss is to be expected."


    Qin Yun looked at him.


    "But Qin Yun, don''t be eager to be smug." Patriarch Spirit Devouring looked coldly at him. "In a little over three thousand years, your twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation will befall you. There might even be a thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth tribulation¡­ I''ll be leaving first, but I believe you will follow closely after me."


    "There''s no need for you to worry about that," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Whether I really perish or transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, you will definitely not live to see it."


    "Hmph!"


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring grunted coldly and fell silent.


    In his silence, his wings protected his body as his flesh was constantly rejuvenated. Despite that, he knew that he could not last three months under the barrage of attacks.


    "I, Patriarch Spirit Devouring, will not commit suicide even if death is imminent. I''ll endure to the final moment. Perhaps, there might be a twist of fate at the final moment. Even if there isn''t¡­" Patriarch Spirit Devouring looked coldly at Qin Yun. "I will make this Qin Yun use all his might, day and night. I''ll waste a few months of his time, reducing the chances of him transcending the tribulations by that tiny bit."


    ¡­


    Patriarch Spirit Devouring continued withstanding, trying his best to stall for time.


    However, all the mighty figures in the Three Realms could tell that Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s resistance would not last for long. Qin Yun and the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure were inside and outside the Great World respectively. Their combined efforts made it impossible for Patriarch Spirit Devouring to have any chances.


    "Hmph." Fiend Ancestor finally gave up when he saw this scene.


    He shot a glance at Numinous Treasure before taking a step and vanishing.


    "Daoist Wen has reigned supreme in the Three Realms for so many years. Yet, he has finally fallen."


    "Now, one of the three perfected Great Dao fiends will perish."


    "How long has it been since the last perfected Great Dao perished?"


    There were discussions throughout the Three Realms.


    Perfected Great Dao existences held extremely high statuses. Since the development of the Chaos, regardless of the era, it was common to have ordinary mighty figures perish, but rare for perfected Great Dao existences.


    For instance, the demon faction appeared to only have Demon Emperor Bai Ze as its sole perfected Great Dao existence. Few in the Three Realms knew of Daoist Lu Ya''s existence. Furthermore, he did not dare appear when the demons encountered trouble. This was because the most terrifying figure under the Heavenly Dao realm, Hou Yi, was hunting him. If he helped the demons with all he had, it would cause Hou Yi to target the demons.


    A perfected Great Dao could influence an entire race.


    For instance, the Ancestral Dragon had allowed the dragons to take up a supreme position in the Three Realms.


    Yet, a perfected Great Dao existence was on the brink of death¡­ It left the mighty figures of the Three Realms astounded as they sighed.


    ¡­


    Days passed one after another.


    Various parties in the Three Realms paid attention and watched. They watched as Qin Yun maintained the Three Absolutes Seven Stars attacks in the Misty Rain Array without stopping at all. They watched as Daoist Wen''s injuries grew graver, as death approached him.


    On the two months and nineteenth day mark.


    "Qin Yun, I''ll be waiting for you." Patriarch Spirit Devouring glared at Qin Yun and laughed maniacally. His extremely heavy injuries began to crumble silently and his wings that were filled with cracks also shattered. His Essence Soul was destroyed, leaving only his True Spirit to enter Samsara.


    Qin Yun watched as the long proboscis floated in midair as well as his other items. After Patriarch Spirit Devouring''s body was destroyed, all that remained of his form was the sharp proboscis that matched a Connate Cardinal treasure. Of course¡­ when it was attached to Patriarch Spirit Devouring the proboscis matched that of a Connate Cardinal treasure, but with him dead, its might dropped drastically in the hands of others.


    Qin Yun waved his hand and collected all the treasures.


    His Misty Rain Sword flew into his body as the Fiend Annihilation Array stopped running. The thirty-six firmament chains also finally dissipated.


    "Oh?"


    "What happened to the thirty-six Heaven and Earth Chains?"


    "They''ve existed since my grandfather was born. Why are they gone?"


    Countless beings in the Huifeng Great World raised their heads in puzzlement.


    For more than three hundreds years, the chains remained there. Countless beings were accustomed to it, so its sudden disappearance left the Huifeng Great World astounded.


    However, the mighty figures of the Three Realms were even more shocked.


    They knew what it meant!


    "Whoosh~"


    Merit surged from every direction and swarmed into Qin Yun''s body. It made him bathed in golden light.


    "Congratulations, Senior Brother Qin for ridding us of Patriarch Spirit Devouring, eliminating a formidable fiend for the Three Realms."


    "Congratulations, Senior Brother Qin for killing Patriarch Spirit Devouring."


    "Congratulations, Sword Immortal Qin for killing Patriarch Spirit Devouring. It''s truly a deed of immeasurable merit."


    Voices sounded in his ears.


    The Green Touring Palace mighty figures congratulated him, including Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. Quite a number of mighty figures from other factions in the Three Realms also congratulated him with voice transmissions, especially those who had a vendetta with Daoist Wen¡­ They were very grateful. There were even perfected Great Dao experts who congratulated him, such as the Human race''s Three Sovereigns, as well as Hundun of the Chaos Three Banes.


    Some of them were happy for Qin Yun.


    Others only wanted to acquaint themselves with him.


    After all, Qin Yun had proven his strength to the Three Realms by stepping on Daoist Wen''s corpse! An existence at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm who could slay a perfected Great Dao was one that struck fear in others.


    ¡­


    "Go."


    Qin Yun extended his right hand as the three-inch-sword floated above his palm. It was none other than the Misty Rain Sword.


    At that moment, boundless merit was being transplanted from Qin Yun''s body into his Intrinsic Flying Sword. The merit he had accrued over all these years were transplanted in it. The founder of the spirit-devouring lineage, which was considered fiends among fiends, Daoist Wen, was ranked within the top three in the Three Realms when it came to the amount of sin. Only the Fiend Ancestor and Patriarch Blood Sea could compare with him.


    The merit obtained from slaying him was astounding. It was far more than the merit he gained from killing Star Destruction.


    Qin Yun had killed quite a number of mighty figure fiends, but over all the years, Star Destruction was the one with the greatest sin. He was finally exceeded by his master, Daoist Wen, today.


    "The merit gained from killing Daoist Wen is so huge that its thrice that of killing Star Destruction. Of course, it''s still slightly less than my sweeping through of the twenty-six dominions." Qin Yun looked at the Misty Rain Sword in hand as he continued transplanting the merit.


    The source of his merit came from sweeping through the twenty-six dominions, killing Daoist Wen, killing Star Destruction, and other miscellaneous deeds when ranked.


    Finally.


    All the merit was injected into the Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    The Misty Rain Sword''s might rose by twenty to thirty percent, but it did not undergo any qualitative change.


    "It still hasn''t become a Merit Cardinal treasure." Qin Yun sighed.


    A figure appeared silently by his side. It was a black-haired elder.


    "Master." Qin Yun immediately bowed reverently. It was the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s avatar.


    "It still hasn''t turned into a Merit Cardinal treasure?" Numinous Treasure frowned slightly.


    "Yeah." Qin Yun nodded. "It''s still not enough."


    "Let''s go. Follow me to meet N¨¹wa," Numinous Treasure said. "When it comes to merit, N¨¹wa is ranked first in the Three Realms. She can tell how far your Misty Rain Sword is from a Merit Cardinal treasure at a glance."


    "Goddess N¨¹wa?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up. "Okay."


    After taking a glance at the Wei Nation''s capital, where Princess Wei Ran was discussing matters with the nine-tailed fox, Qing Shuang, Qin Yun left the Huifeng Great World. He headed to Goddess N¨¹wa''s palace with Numinous Treasure.


    (End of Volume)

 660 Future of the Three Realms

    N¨¹wa Palace was the residence of Goddess N¨¹wa. It was very famous in the Three Realms, but very mysterious and difficult to find.


    Hua¡ª


    Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure tore through space-time with Qin Yun and arrived in a land swirling with fog.


    "N¨¹wa Palace." Qin Yun looked at the palace that appeared somewhat hazy amid the fog. He turned a little anxious since Goddess N¨¹wa enjoyed a very unique standing in the Three Realms. She had mended the heavens to save the Three Realms through her powers alone. Goddess N¨¹wa created humanity¡­ so to humans, she was completely different from the other Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    Goddess N¨¹wa could be said to be the mother of all humanity.


    It would also be Qin Yun''s first meeting with Goddess N¨¹wa.


    "Heavenly Lord." Two fairies outside the palace gates bowed reverently when they saw Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure.


    "Good." Numinous Treasure led Qin Yun right in.


    N¨¹wa Palace was extremely large with numerous palatial complexes, corridors, and gardens. It resembled a maze more than a palace.


    Numinous Treasure led Qin Yun to a garden filled with abundant flowers. A regal-gowned woman was sitting cross-legged among the flowers, appearing tall even while seated. She watched Numinous Treasure and Qin Yun walk in with a smile. Her gaze rested mostly on Qin Yun as she extended her hand and said, "Numinous Treasure, and Disciple-Nephew Qin, please have a seat."


    "This is Goddess N¨¹wa?" Qin Yun''s first meeting with Goddess N¨¹wa made him find her aura ethereal and unfathomable, but very warm despite his realm.


    Numinous Treasure nodded and sat cross-legged with a smile. Qin Yun also sat cross-legged beside his master.


    "Humans are indeed becoming stronger with every generation. Your people have now produced the first half-step Heavenly Dao existence for humanity." Goddess N¨¹wa looked at Qin Yun with a genial and warm look, as though she was looking at her own child. "The light that shines from providence on humanity is indeed intensifying."


    The humans'' Three Sovereigns were very powerful and, in certain aspects, they had reached the pinnacle below the Heavenly Dao realm.


    For instance, Fuxishi''s previous incarnation was Godfiend Fuxi. He had accumulated immense amounts of insight and was best at array formations in the Three Realms.


    Suirenshi''s Inextinguishable Torch Flame sent reverberations through the Three Realms and, ignoring Shennongshi, the first two had strength not far from the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Yet, they were never publicly acknowledged to possess such strength.


    The number of half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences acknowledged in the Three Realms¡­ was a pathetic number. There were only four before Qin Yun¡ªthe Buddhists'' Amita, the Ancestral Dragon, Mighty God Hou Yi, and the Chaos Godfiend, God King Zhurong, who once reigned supreme for a period of time! They had all proven themselves in battle, and now, there was another one¡ªQin Yun.


    As the strongest sword immortal in the Three Realms, he possessed an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, leaving no doubts to his strength. After he slew Patriarch Spirit Devouring, his half-step Heavenly Dao realm strength was publicly acknowledged.


    "The humans are truly richly endowed by nature," praised Numinous Treasure with a smile.


    "I''ve always been worried," said Goddess N¨¹wa with a smile, "that all those old freaks would appear after the few of us are forced to leave the Three Realms. The Three Realms would then turn to chaos as a result¡­ However, with Disciple-Nephew Qin''s appearance, I''m a lot more at ease. His abhorrence of evil shall prevent those old freaks from causing wanton destruction."


    "I know the temper of this disciple of mine. He will not tolerate any misdeeds made by those old freaks. However, he has to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations before he can leave those old freaks in shock," Numinous Treasure said.


    "Master, both of you were talking about being forced to leave the Three Realms?" Qin Yun asked out of curiosity.


    "You aren''t aware?" N¨¹wa looked at Qin Yun.


    "I heard Master mention it once, but I do not know the reason why Master, Goddess N¨¹wa, and other Heavenly Dao realm figures have to leave the Three Realms," Qin Yun said, having heard his master mention it before when he was obstructing the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body.


    N¨¹wa looked at his disciple and explained, "It''s not considered a secret. Ever since Buzhou cracked, the Three Realms has been in a state of collapse. Even with N¨¹wa''s mending of the heavens to save the Three Realms, the immense damage to its foundations remains.


    From the side, N¨¹wa nodded and said, "Back when Pangu split the heavens from earth, the Three Realms were in a much more prosperous state, but it was still slowly draining away. Ever since Gonggong slammed into Mt. Buzhou and crumbled it, the foundations of the Three Realms have been severely damaged. The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies have been constantly decreasing in the Three Realms. With the Heavenly Dao in place, how can the spiritual energy decrease? It''s to reduce the burden the Three Realms has to bear.


    "The Three Realms is home to trillions of lives and it''s filled with countless immortals and fiends. The burden is just too huge. And each of us Heavenly Dao realm existences are a huge burden on the Three Realms," N¨¹wa said. "We can already sense the rejection the Three Realms has towards us. We can still stay for now, but as the rejection increases, it will not take long before we are forced to leave."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    He could notice the changes in the environment. Small Worlds would have Heaven and Earth spiritual energies decrease with time, making cultivation more difficult. That was only an ecological change at a small scale.


    The changes to the Three Realms as a whole went deeper and farther.


    "When the time comes, there will be nothing to rein in others in the Three Realms. All the lurking old freaks would appear. We will rely on all of you to maintain order in the Three Realms," Goddess N¨¹wa explained.


    Numinous Treasure nodded and said, "The Three Realms will continue changing, weakening the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies and making it harder to cultivate. It will come to a point when the Three Realms will enter an automatic cycle. We find it difficult to predict how long this process could take.


    "Who knows when we might be expelled as well," said Qin Yun.


    "It will still be a long while. Perfected Golden Immortals are still at the Golden Immortal stage, a realm below the Heavenly Dao. There is a qualitative difference," Numinous Treasure said. "If the Three Realms can''t even bear the burden of Golden Immortals, I do not even dare imagine what it would look like."


    N¨¹wa sighed. "It can be certain that as Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thin, cultivation would become harder. The Heavenly realm would still be alright, but the Great Worlds would be in trouble. The billions of Small Worlds¡­ might even see their path to immortality severed."


    Qin Yun was deep in thought.


    Severing the path to immortality?


    He recalled¡­


    Back in his second life when he dreamed a hundred years, he had descended as Meng Yiqiu. That Small World had the path to immortality severed. It gave rise to a martial path.


    "Disciple, what you should be focused on is your transcending of the tribulations," Numinous Treasure said with a smile. "We will be leaving the Three Realms only after you transcend your tribulations. You only have a little over three thousand years left."


    "I can only try my best. However, it''s still an unknown how powerful the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation is. It''s also hard to tell if there''s a thirteenth, fourteenth or fifteenth tribulation¡­"


    "It''s indeed unpredictable how the Itinerant Immortal tribulations will turn out." N¨¹wa nodded slightly.


    Numinous Treasure said, "N¨¹wa, our visit here is to as for your help. How far is my disciple''s Intrinsic Flying Sword from a Merit Cardinal treasure?"


    "Merit Cardinal treasure?" N¨¹wa looked at Qin Yun.


    He immediately flipped his hand as a three-inch flying sword appeared in the middle of his palm. The flying sword was tiny, but it contained extremely powerful might and had immense merit within.


    "Back when you swept through the twenty-six dominions and wiped out the fiends'' nest, freeing countless Small Worlds from the grasp of the fiends, you won a good deal of merit." N¨¹wa looked carefully at the Misty Rain Sword.


    While Qin Yun remained anxious, Numinous Treasure listened.


    "Your Intrinsic Flying Sword is still twenty percent away from becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure," said N¨¹wa.

 661 Sweeping Places

    Qin Yun was shocked. Having accumulated so much merit through all the opportunities he encountered, he was still short of twenty percent? How was he to amass that?


    "Still short by twenty percent?" Numinous Treasure frowned slightly.


    "It''s already very remarkable that Disciple-Nephew Qin was able to amass eighty percent of a Merit Cardinal treasure," N¨¹wa said. "Since Pangu split the heaven from earth, only a handful of Merit Cardinal treasures have been produced, much fewer than Connate Cardinal treasures."


    Connate Cardinal treasures were born out of the Chaos or refined by expending rare Connate Wonders. An example was the Empyrean Seal. Although Connate Cardinal treasures were rare to the point of perfected Great Dao experts not having one, Heavenly Dao realm experts typically would have a few on hand. They would bestow them to their disciples. For instance, the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had a quite a number of Connate Cardinal treasures.


    There were dozens of Connate Cardinal treasures in the entire Three Realms.


    But the number of Merit Cardinal treasures were far fewer, numbering only a handful. This was because there was only one source for Merit Cardinal treasures. One could only be formed by amassing merit for the Three Realms.


    "You just need to kill two Star Destructions and that will be enough." N¨¹wa chuckled.


    "Star Destruction was invincible in Small Worlds back then. He reigned supreme for a long period of time and his sins were within the top five in the Three Realms. To find someone with sins that can match Star Destruction? And two at that?" Qin Yun felt the pressure.


    There was only great merit in killing those with greater sins.


    It actually had little to do with strength.


    Among many perfected Great Dao experts, many of them had little sin and instead had accrued merit. Even if Qin Yun slew them, it would only erode his own merit!


    "At present, the ones with that much sin in the Three Realms are all hiding away in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss." Numinous Treasure shook his head gently. "They are all very crafty and careful. It''s unlikely they will appear in the next three thousand plus years."


    "Oh?" N¨¹wa suddenly looked into the distant world outside.


    "That is¡­" Numinous Treasure looked out either.


    Qin Yun was left perplexed.


    He was in N¨¹wa Palace.


    His strength was still insufficient to tear through the obstacles placed by the palace to see the outside world.


    "Nine out of the ten fiendish dominions have had their space sealed," said Numinous Treasure. "The remaining one that isn''t sealed is the Great World that Boxun presides over."


    "Black Lotus is likely afraid, afraid that Qin Yun would storm into the Great Worlds of the fiendish dominions and wipe out the fiends there, allowing those Great Worlds to return to the Three Realms''s Heavenly Dao," N¨¹wa said. "Now, space has been sealed ahead of time to prevent Qin Yun from entering."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I killed Daoist Wen, and now, the fiends only have Patriarch Blood Sea and Boxun as the remaining perfected Great Dao existences. They do appear to be struggling to protect their ten dominions. I had planned on storming into the fiendish dominions to pull a few Great Worlds back under the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao. But now that they have been sealed¡­ Although maintaining such a spatial seal is quite a huge burden, the fiends should be able to maintain it for a few thousand years."


    "The only one that isn''t sealed is clearly a trap." Numinous Treasure sneered. "It''s just waiting for you to enter."


    "I know that myself," Qin Yun said. "Boxun once fought the Buddhists for an extended period of time singlehandedly. Even after all these years of dormancy, there has not been any progress. He''s also not far from the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. In his Great World, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao envelops it. I''m unable to use the Heaven and Earth powers and my strength will drop by thirty percent. And if I take the initiative to enter, I will likely find myself trapped in an array formation that the fiends have set up. My strength will only drop further¡­ To fight Boxun in such an environment?"


    Qin Yun was not stupid.


    Without any chance of winning, with a high possibility of dying, why would he do it?


    "Black Lotus will likely restrain his subordinates in the coming few thousand years." Numinous Treasure frowned. "It will make amassing great merit difficult."


    "I''ll have to accumulate it slowly." On the contrary, Qin Yun was at peace with the situation.


    When N¨¹wa saw this, she secretly sent a voice transmission to Numinous Treasure. "Numinous Treasure, it won''t be easy for Disciple-Nephew Qin to accumulate the last twenty percent of merit. Black Lotus will not give him an opportunity either. Now, the best solution for him¡­ is outside the Three Realms. Have you ever told him the secret of the world outside the Three Realms?"


    "Outside the Three Realms?" Numinous Treasure pondered for a moment and sent a voice transmission. "It''s still not time. I''ll let this disciple of mine accumulate as much merit as possible. If it''s really impossible for him to obtain a Merit Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms, it won''t be too late to tell him the secret of the world outside the Three Realms. After all, you do know that beyond the Three Realms¡­ there are opportunities, but also massive horrors."


    N¨¹wa nodded slightly.


    They were born out of the Chaos and knew more about the world beyond the Three Realms.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and his master left N¨¹wa Palace.


    Once they were away from N¨¹wa Palace and its obstruction, Qin Yun saw everything from afar.


    He saw that nine fiendish Great Worlds had their space sealed. Entry required one to fly in via space, but to do that might result in an attack by the Fiend Ancestor!


    "What do you plan on doing next?" Numinous Treasure inquired.


    "I''ll sweep the Three Realms first," Qin Yun said.


    "Sweep? Well said. It''s time to wipe the scourge." Numinous Treasure nodded in approval.


    ******


    Huifeng Great World.


    Qin Yun returned to the Wei Nation''s capital to meet his disciple.


    "Master." the nine-tailed fox Qing Shuang was extremely delighted as she bowed respectfully. By her side, Princess Wei Ran was somewhat reserved as she bowed reverently, "Greetings, Sword Immortal Qin."


    He had slain Daoist Wen.


    As a disciple of the Grand Supreme lineage, Princess Wei Ran knew how terrifying Sword Immortal Qin was.


    Qin Yun nodded at Princess Wei Ran slightly before looking at his disciple. "Qing Shuang, do you plan on cultivating in the Huifeng Great World or cultivating in the Heavenly realm? I have an avatar at Mt. Lightning Roar in the Heavenly realm. I can give you pointers frequently."


    "I''m willing." Qing Shuang showed no hesitation.


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded before flicking his sleeve.


    Hua!


    Qing Shuang was directly sent to Mt. Lightning Roar in the Heavenly realm. This was still the first time he was bringing a disciple back. After all, Qing Shuang had broken through to the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm in the three hundred plus years he spent kill Daoist Wen. The disciples Qin Yun took in while traveling the Three Realms were mostly weak. To Qin Yun, only disciples at the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm could be considered as personal disciples. The weaker ones could only be considered as in-name disciples.


    After settling in his disciple, Qin Yun looked in the direction of a fiendish Great World, one not among the fiendish dominions, from afar.


    "Hmph. Fiend Ancestor, to think you hope that luck would be on your side." With one step, Qin Yun traversed distance space and arrived in a Great World.


    "Kill."


    Qin Yun stood high in the sky as he sensed the entire Great World with a thought.


    He flicked his sleeve.


    Thousands of dense Sword Qi tore through the void and crossed vast distances and descended upon one fiend after another.


    "Hahaha, with this Myriad Corpse Cave, I''ve finally cultivated to the Skyfiend realm!" A thin black-robed elder roared with laughter. A Sword Qi flew out of the void and tore through his glabella. He widened his eyes in horror as his body was reduced to ashes.


    "From this day forth, all of you are disciples of my Fire Refinement Fiend Sect." Seated high on a throne, the sect master of the Fire Refinement Fiend Sect looked down at his newly recruited disciples. Just as he finished saying that¡­ dozens of Sword Qi appeared out of the void. One Sword Qi tore through his glabella. He sat there without having even a moment to resist. His eyes were filled with despair and anger before he was reduced to ashes.


    Instantly, dozens of Sword Qi tore through the grand hall.


    The Elders and elite disciples inside the hall immediately died, each turning to ash. Only the weak juniors that had just been recruited survived the calamity.


    "What happened?" The disciples who had just been recruited into the Fire Refinement Fiend Sect were dumbfounded seeing all the upper echelons of the sect killed.


    Similar scenes happened everywhere in the Great World.


    Sword Qi would suddenly descend, slaying one Skyfiend after another.


    Regardless if they presided over an area, pulled the strings behind a country, or reclused themselves in cultivation¡­ the Skyfiends of the Great World were wiped clean! Even for Essence Soul realm fiends who had sufficient amount of sin, Qin Yun would "take the effort" to wipe them out as well. He killed tens of thousands of them.


    After killing millions of Skyfiends and tens of thousands of extremely sinful Essence Soul realm entities, he naturally had merit accrued.


    Every individual bit of merit was nothing to speak off, but it was a lot when accumulated!


    Furthermore, the foundation the fiends had in this Great World had been uprooted by Qin Yun! For a fiendish sect to not even have a Skyfiend in a Great World? Perhaps any random Skyimmortal could wipe it out of existence. It was impossible for them to survive.


    "Next Great World." A perfected Great Dao expert like Qin Yun just need a few seconds to wipe out all the fiends in a Great World. Following that, he would take a single step to traverse space and arrive in another Great World.


    Years ago, Qin Yun had influenced countless Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions. Now, he was taking action in the Great Worlds. What he wanted to do went beyond the ten fiendish dominions, he would eradicate all traces of fiends in any of the Great Worlds in the other dominions. To cross the fiends in such a manner was not about being a bully, but about triggering a complete table flip.


    Few ordinary perfected Great Dao experts had the confidence to flip tables.


    There were only a few in the Three Realms who were capable of doing so. However, they either couldn''t be bothered to do it as they viewed mortals as ants, or they had scruples. For example, although the Ancestral Dragon had the strength to do so, perhaps every dragon in the Three Realms would be hunted by the fiends if he did so.


    Qin Yun had not been cultivating for long. The people he cared about were few. Furthermore, he had the Itinerant Immortal Heavenly Tribulations ahead of him and he was powerful enough. This gave him the right to do so.


    "What?"


    Deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body had a drastic change in expression.


    Although he was also worried that Qin Yun would "take the effort" to sweep through the fiendish sects in the different Great Worlds, it was easy to make the Ancestral Fiends temporarily retreat to safety. But to summon back the countless Skyfiends in all the Great Worlds would be a massive endeavor! Furthermore, the situation the fiends had set up over all the years would be destroyed in a day. He''d willingly taken that risk.


    However, Qin Yun had really done so.


    "How shameless for an Itinerant Immortal lunatic to be such a bully. He even attacks those at the Essence Soul realm?" Fiend Ancestor raged, but he still gave the order, "Pass the order to disperse all Skyfiends in the Great Worlds."


    Although he had tried his luck, he did have the preparations to retreat in place.


    However, it was easier said than done to have countless Skyfiends retreat.


    Many were bound to be killed by Qin Yun. Many¡­


    That day was a huge calamity for all the Skyfiends in the Three Realms.

 662 Insufficient Strength

    The Fiend Ancestor gave the order to the mighty figures under him and they disseminated the order down. After the order passed down through numerous levels, countless Skyfiends in the Three Realms learned of the news.


    "So the Tenebrous Cloud Tower that has been doing evil all this while has so many Skyfiends backing it." A third firmament Daoist looked furiously at the group of Skyfiends in a hall. Seated on a high throne was the leader who roared with laughter.


    "Haha, Qu Feng, you are quite a talent. You have been at odds with my Tenebrous Cloud Tower time and time again, but the might you''ve seen from my Tenebrous Cloud Tower is only the tip of the iceberg. Do you think we aren''t aware that you have been investigating where our nest is?"


    "Your infiltration was crystal clear to all of us." The other Skyfiends looked down at the pathetic ant.


    "Qu Feng, you are quite talented, so I''m giving you an opportunity. Submit to my Tenebrous Cloud Tower and convert to the Fiendish Dao. I will take you in as my disciple, how about that?" The leader looked at the Daoist beneath him.


    The Daoist wore an ugly expression. "Dream on. Go ahead and kill me."


    "Why do this? In terms of cultivation, our Fiendish Dao has a variety of Dharmic formulations. It''s much faster cultivating them. With your realm, it won''t take you longer than ten years to reach the Skyfiend level," said the leader with a smile.


    "That''s unorthodox." The Daoist sneered.


    "The size of one''s fist determines everything in this world. There''s no such thing as orthodox or unorthodox¡­" said the leader as he laughed. It was true that fiendish cultivation was more radical with numerous evil means, making it harder for fiends to become Ancestral Fiends. However, to most cultivators, becoming a mighty figure was too distant a goal. Therefore, the Fiendish Dao was very alluring.


    It resulted in the rapid proliferation of the Fiendish Dao throughout the Three Realms. There might be many who failed to succeed in coming under a Daoist sect, but converting to the Fiendish Dao allowed success. This was the appeal of the fiends.


    "Come, join my Tenebrous Cloud Tower. Join and you will gain everything you want," continued the leader when a voice suddenly bellowed within the hall.


    "Disciple, quickly escape the Great World and hide in a Small World. Quick!"


    "Master!" The leader was alarmed.


    The surrounding Skyfiends were astonished as well. Their leader''s master was a fiendish mighty figure.


    "Quick, Sword Immortal Qin has already arrived in your Great World!" The voice sounded extremely urgent.


    Boom!


    Countless Sword Qi appeared out of the void. In a blink of an eye, the countless Sword Qi flew through the hall, piercing through one Skyfiend after another, turning them to ash. The Daoist was the only survivor.


    "They are all dead?" The Daoist looked around in a daze. The Skyfiends were all much more powerful than him. The leader, who could have crushed him with a finger, was now dead?


    "Escape the Great World and hide in a Small World? Only by hiding in a Small World can survival be possible?" the Daoist muttered. "That Sword Immortal Qin must be a mighty figure."


    As a third firmament Essence Soul, he had never heard of Sword Immortal Qin.


    ¡­


    "Quick."


    The Skyfiends fled one after another.


    Some flew in horror. "Master, this Sword Immortal Qin is wiping out the Skyfiends of the Three Realms. Can''t any of the mighty fiendish figures stop him?"


    "He can''t be stopped."


    A sigh resonated in his ears. Following that, the master ignored his disciple.


    If they could not escape a Great World in time, they were destined to be annihilated.


    "No fiend can stop him? Isn''t it said that the Fiend Ancestor can match that of the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor? Is Sword Immortal Qin that terrifying?" The fleeing Skyfiends refused to believe this.


    To sweep through the Skyfiends of the numerous Great Worlds would definitely cause an intense counterattack from the fiends.


    The fiends had a few perfected Great Dao existences, such as the King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun and Patriarch Blood Sea to name two. The Fiend Ancestor could even request the help of other perfected Great Dao existences, such as the Chaos Three Banes, or ancient existences like God King Zhurong. However, the fiends were truly out of solutions when Qin Yun attacked!


    With a half-step Heavenly Dao realm and the will of one that only had a few millennia left to live¡­


    The fiends could not deal with him. Even if the Fiend Ancestor sought the help of ancient existences, none of them were willing to help. Who wouldn''t suffer a headache from Qin Yun''s maniacal revenge?


    ¡­


    Qin Yun "cleaned up" the numerous Great Worlds, hoping to clean up the "house" that was the Three Realms.


    The Skyfiends from the first two Great Worlds did not receive the order in time and were wiped out by Qin Yun.


    From the third Great World on, the Skyfiends began fleeing frantically. All of them typically had life-preservation treasures used to traverse the void, but most of them were for short distances. It was rather common to instantly escape tens of thousands of kilometers, but to escape a Great World entirely¡­ would be difficult! Only a few Skyfiends had the life-preservation treasures capable of removing them from a Great World.


    There were others who were more powerful, capable of casting Major Void Transference themselves. They naturally escaped easily into Small Worlds.


    Qin Yun was out of solutions once they escaped into a Small World.


    Therefore¡ª


    Although Qin Yun showed no mercy, many late-stage Skyfiends managed to escape. After all, most late-stage Skyfiends were capable of teleporting across relatively long distances. A few teleportations was sufficient to escape the Great World.


    But in terms of numbers, the early and mid-staged Skyfiends took up 99% of the entire number slain. Few of these Skyfiends managed to escape.


    "Whoosh~"


    Countless Sword Qi descended from the void, slaying one Skyfiend after another. Countless Skyfiends seemed to disperse like evaporating bubbles. Even those with avatars were killed when Qin Yun''s sword beams traced their karmic lines.


    "How ruthless. Apart from the fiendish dominions, 99% of all the Skyfiends in the other Great Worlds have been killed. Probably ten million Skyfiends have been killed. It''s truly a major calamity for the Skyfiends in the Three Realms. But why am I so happy seeing this?" In the Heavenly Courts, two mighty figures were watching everything that was happening in the Three Realms remotely as they chatted.


    "There are few that have the strength to do this in the Three Realms. And the only one who dares to do so is Sword Immortal Qin! I have to say I''m impressed."


    "The Three Realms has sixty dominions. Ten of them are controlled by the fiends while another twenty-six dominions are infiltrated by the fiends. Back when Sword Immortal Qin was invincible in Small Worlds, he caused countless Small Worlds in the twenty-six dominions to be taken back. The Skyfiends in those Small Worlds either went to the fiendish dominions or to Great Worlds. Now, the Great Worlds in the twenty-six dominions are being swept again. It could be said that the fiendish forces in the twenty-six dominions have been almost wiped out. Only a few Skyfiends remain there to live abject lives."


    "Yes, nearly all fiends outside the fiendish dominions have been wiped out."


    Mighty figures who watched this scene from various spots in the Three Realms could not help but marvel and applause.


    "Well done!"


    "Here, let''s drink. How elating!"


    There were mighty figures who abhorred evil and had once thought of massacring the fiends, but they lacked the strength. Even the typical perfected Great Dao existence did not dare offend the fiends to such an extent.


    But Qin Yun had done so.


    He made the Three Realms falter in disbelief. Regardless of their faction, everyone had to admit to Sword Immortal Qin''s strength.


    "This Qin Yun is too insolent! Way too insolent!"


    "He deserves death!"


    "Let him enjoy his days. Each Itinerant Immortal tribulation is more terrifying than the last. The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation can only be survived by a perfected Great Dao existence, and the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation likely can only be withstood by a Heavenly Dao realm existence. This Qin Yun will definitely be obliterated."


    "Yes, he''s doomed when he has to transcend the later tribulations."


    The Ancestral Fiends were raging in madness because the countless dying Skyfiends were their disciples. Now that they had been wiped clean, they did not even dare show their faces.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun stood in midair.


    "That''s almost all." Qin Yun stopped as well, allowing for merit to continuously descend upon him.


    He looked at those worlds from afar, seeing countless mortals rejoice as they escaped the clutches of evil. He could not help but smile. Merit was only secondary in his motivations. More important was his wish to do something to help these countless lives! He knew how tragic it was for mortals to live under the terror of the fiends. He wished for humanity to lead better lives.


    "I wish to do more for this world, but what I can do is limited." Qin Yun shot a glance at the ten fiendish dominions. There was nothing he could do to those areas for he had insufficient strength.

 663 The Demonss Changes

    "Whoosh." A figure walked out of the void and she was none other than Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, who held a crutch.


    "Senior Sister," greeted Qin Yun with a smile.


    "We are already accustomed to having countless fiends entrenched in various areas of the Three Realms," said Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain with a smile. "Now, you have leveled them by your strength alone. You have really given the Three Realms a shock."


    Qin Yun smiled. "Before the Fiend Ancestor attained the Heavenly Dao realm, the fiends were nothing to worry about. The Three Realms were at peace! I always felt that the Three Realms of that era was the best. The fiendish ways should have been denounced, with its practitioners doing things in secret. Yet, it has been spread with great fanfare, making fiends to appear everywhere. This should not have happened at all¡­"


    "Denounced?" Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain was taken aback before she nodded slightly. "Yes, back when the fiends rose in prominence and spread throughout the Three Realms, it did cause the various factions in the Three Realms to join forces in a bid to eradicate their way. The Daoist-Fiend war embroiled the Three Realms¡­ but both sides ended up with terrible losses. After realizing that the fiends could not be destroyed, there was a ceasefire. All these years later, we have become accustomed to the existence of the fiends."


    "In the future, we can also get accustomed to their lack of existence," Qin Yun said.


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain laughed. "That will depend on you. When the Heavenly Dao realm existences are forced to leave the Three Realms, it will be the world of the mighty figures. Junior Brother, if you continue cultivating and have another breakthrough in strength, it''s even possible that you could cause the fiends to retreat to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss."


    The Tenebrous Fiend Abyss was part of the Three Realms and impossible to destroy.


    Making the fiends hide in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss was the limit!


    "I will have to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations first," Qin Yun said.


    "After sweeping through so many Great Worlds, how''s the merit you gained?" inquired Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. "Can you attain a Merit Cardinal treasure?"


    Qin Yun shook his head gently. "Although I killed many Skyfiends, the truly powerful ones could employ Void Transference, allowing them to hide into Small Worlds after a few teleportations. The even more powerful ones could use Major Void Transference! The ones I wiped out were the weaker ones! Only by killing millions of these weaker ones would the merit match that of an Ancestral Fiend mighty figure."


    "Having killed so many, it should be able to match about ten Ancestral Fiends, right?" asked Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    "However, it''s still about ten percent short of a Merit Cardinal treasure," Qin Yun said. "I''ll have enough merit if I kill another ten Ancestral Fiends, but where am I to find them?"


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain looked at Qin Yun, thinking, "This Junior Brother doesn''t seem to know of the world beyond the Three Realms? Master likely didn''t tell him because he has his reasons. I''ll wait another one to two thousand years before asking Master."


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Demon Emperor Palace.


    Demon Emperor Bai Ze was leisurely drawing when an illusory figure descended. It was none other than Nine Phoenix.


    "Bai Ze," Nine Phoenix said immediately. "Did something happen?"


    "Did Qin Yun attack us demons?" Bai Ze continued drawing.


    "Yes, sixteen Skydemons were killed by Qin Yun. Five of them were late-stage Skydemons," Nine Phoenix said immediately. "Those were Demon Kings at the late-stage Skydemon realm. Two Skydemons even escaped into Small Worlds, but he sent Guardian Generals at the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm to slay them. He doesn''t give us demons any face. You even treated him well the last time."


    When it came to demons, Qin Yun had dealt with them individually. Even if they escaped into Small Worlds, he sent Guardian Generals to capture them.


    When he massacred Skyfiends, he could do little to those who escaped into Small Worlds since he only had ten plus Guardian Generals which were at the pinnacle Skyimmortal realm.


    Bai Ze continued drawing as he said leisurely, "If not for our acquaintance in the past, Qin Yun would only be more ruthless."


    "What right does he have to attack us?" Nine Phoenix turned flustered. "You are Demon Emperor."


    Bai Ze put down his brush and looked coldly at Nine Phoenix. "Why, are you actually taking me as your Demon Emperor now?"


    Nine Phoenix was taken aback.


    "I had long gave the instruction for all of you to hold back! Do not engage in wanton acts of evil. None of you cultivate in the fiendish ways. Doing evil has no benefit to your cultivation So then, why act so brazenly?" Bai Ze was somewhat infuriated. "Back when our demon''s Heavenly Courts were destroyed, the Daoist and Buddhist mighty figures captured mighty figures of our demons to be their mounts and slaves! Why? It was because we had committed too many sins. They were happy to deal with us demons. If we had merit on us, would they dare bully us?


    "Thanks to the uprising of the fiends, the Daoists and Buddhists have been a lot kinder to us demons," Bai Ze said coldly. "Yet, despite being met with kindness, some demons end up becoming even more fearless. Hmph, did they forget the lessons from the destruction of the demons'' Heavenly Courts? Even if there isn''t Sword Immortal Qin today, there would be other mighty figures who would deal with these sinful ones.


    "One deserves punishment for being sinful," said Bai Ze. "No one can be blamed but them."


    "I understand all that you said. But you have to save them," said Nine Phoenix anxiously.


    Bai Ze said coldly, "Summon all the late-stage Skydemon juniors with grave sins. Punish them by placing them into Heart Refining Pagoda and refine their hearts for a hundred thousand years."


    "Heart Refining Pagoda?" Nine Phoenix was taken aback.


    Heart Refining Pagoda was something Bai Ze had gone to great efforts to build in order to change the demons. There were numerous torturous means that could temper one''s heart and mind. He wished to use these to change those intractable demon juniors. But clearly, there was a backlash among the demons. Bai Ze''s orders could not be executed as there were just too many intractable demons.


    "Yes, we will take action first and make these juniors suffer a hundred thousand years. If that''s the case, Qin Yun is unlikely to pursue them." Bai Ze picked up his brush again. "This is the only way to save them. Let them choose. Either they choose death or they enter the Heart Refining Pagoda for a hundred thousand years."


    "Qin Yun might only live for another three thousand plus years. Punishing them with four thousand years should be sufficient, right?" asked Nine Phoenix.


    "Do you think Qin Yun is stupid?" Bai Ze shot a glance at her. "They have to be punished for a hundred thousand years, and with a punishment that is severe enough to convince him to let them off. Furthermore, I will tell him personally."


    "T-this¡­ a hundred thousand years¡­ back then, you sent 39 demons with grave sins into the Heart Refining Pagoda. It was meant to be for ten thousand years, but in the end, 12 of them committed suicide," Nine Phoenix could not help but say.


    "This is about tempering and refining one''s heart and mind. If they lack that state of mind, who else is to blame?"


    "Is there really no other solution?" pressed Nine Phoenix.


    "What else can be done? Attack him? I''m not Qin Yun''s match." Bai Ze waved his hand. "Quickly do it. This is the only solution."


    Nine Phoenix had no choice but to leave and do as ordered.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun continued dealing with sinful beings in the Great Worlds. Previously, he dealt with the fiends, but now, he was dealing with both humans and demons. He did not spare any sinful humans or demons.


    As for the intractable fiendish demons, there were some who refused to enter the Heart Refining Pagoda. Eventually, they really did die under Qin Yun''s hand! With regards to that, the demon mighty figures had nothing to say.


    Of course, even more powerful sinful demons chose to bow their heads to survive. They chose to enter the Heart Refining Pagoda and suffer within¡­ Back then, the ten thousand years in Heart Refining Pagoda was enough to cause thirty percent of the demons to perish! Now, it was a hundred thousand years! According to Bai Ze''s estimates, perhaps half would die and that was something he hoped would happen.


    From his point of view, half dying meant nothing. This was because surviving a hundred thousand years in the Heart Refining Pagoda would result in a completely reformed person. Furthermore, such a survivor had a resilient Dao heart.


    "After all these years, something that I''ve not been capable of accomplishing has been done thanks to Qin Yun." Bai Ze looked at the lofty Heart Refining Pagoda. Hundreds of thousands of powerful demons were suffering inside as they wailed sharply. However, Bai Ze smiled. "External forces are ultimately needed to change the demons after all."


    "Demons can also have a Dao heart that remains unperturbed to infinite calamities. In the future, we can produce one at the Heavenly Dao realm as well," said Bai Ze softly. "Back then, us demons were the strongest race in the Three Realms. We will not be weaker than the humans in the future."


    "After all, the demons cannot be protected through me alone." Bai Ze also felt a tinge of exhaustion.


    ******


    In a blink of an eye, 120 years had passed since Qin Yun wiped out the Skyfiends in the Three Realms.


    Qin Yun was listening to a tune inside a tea restaurant. "I attacked the sinful demons, but not only did Demon Emperor Bai Ze not stop me, he was even more ruthless than me. He even gave me a list to deal with even more demons. It made many demons choose to enter the Heart Refining Pagoda by themselves and suffer the pain of heart refinement."


    Although Qin Yun had been ruthless, he had only dealt with the really sinful ones.


    There were many who hit Qin Yun''s criteria among the fiends.


    However, although demons were intractable, the few that really met Qin Yun''s criteria was much lower in number than the fiends. Most of them were just acting out their nature. They were born into a world where the law of the jungle worked. It was not right to say that it was wrong for a tiger to eat a lamb! After they became demons, such instincts became their intrinsic characters.


    As long as they did not unleash wanton destruction and completely give into their bloodthirsty nature, Qin Yun felt that they were still redeemable.


    It was impossible for him to investigate each powerful demon carefully. However, Bai Ze knew the powerful demons very well. The list he gave Qin Yun had demons who appeared to have little sins on the surface, but were really sinister and bloodthirsty. When Qin Yun observed them, he determined that they deserved death! Therefore, he also killed them. This made the demons misunderstand that even sins at that level were pursued by Sword Immortal Qin. It immediately caused many powerful demons to enter the Heart Refining Pagoda.


    The demons also gradually changed from that day.


    ¡­


    In the Chaos beyond the Three Realms, there was a cave abode.


    Inside the cave abode was a golden-armored figure emitting golden light. He looked in the direction of the Three Realms and smiled. "This Qin Yun has eradicated most of the evil, but he has yet to attain a Merit Cardinal treasure. He must definitely be hoping to gain immense merit, but at present, the means to gain that is beyond the Three Realms, in the Chaos."


    "He must be anxious. Yes, it''s time to invite him." The golden-armored figure took a step and left the cave abode, heading straight for the Three Realms.

 664 Invitation

    On the second floor of the tea restaurant, Qin Yun was listening to the tunes while drinking tea and having some pastry.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun sensed something as he turned his head. He saw a blurry figure instantly appear on the second floor of the tea restaurant. He was tall and wore wide and loose golden robes. He leisurely walked through the tea restaurant, but despite the numerous customers, none of them seemed to see him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." The golden-robed man stood by the table and looked at Qin Yun with a smile. "Might I request a drink from you?"


    "Of course, as long as you do not mind such mortal liquids." Qin Yun looked at him and began pouring some wine for him.


    He instantly recognized him.


    He was the ancient god, Rushou.


    Before the Three Realms opened up, the Chaos gave birth to five extremely powerful Godfiends. They separately helmed the Connate Five Elements. They were Water God Gonggong, Fire God Zhurong, Wood God Goumang, Earth God Houtu, Metal God Rushou. Even among the perfected Great Dao existences, the five were considered extremely powerful. Early on in the Three Realms, God King Zhurong and God King Gonggong fought for supremacy. Eventually, Gonggong angrily slammed into Mt. Buzhou after suffering defeat, causing the Three Realms to undergo immense changes. Gonggong died and Zhurong, along with a group of Godfiends, were suppressed by Goddess N¨¹wa under Mt. Three Blades. They were only recently released.


    As for Houtu, Goumong, and Rushou, they did not enjoy striving for supremacy. Goddess Houtu now helmed all mountains and rivers and the underworld, bringing prosperity to the Three Realms. As for Goumang and Rushou, they kept even lower profiles and were mysterious. They were almost never seen. As these two reclused themselves in the Chaos beyond the Three Realms, their strength had been a mystery. But without a doubt, their strengths neared that of the half-step Heavenly Dao realm at the very least.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you swept through countless Skyfiends in the Three Realms by your strength alone. It''s truly impressive," marveled Rushou. "There are many experts in the Three Realms who wish to do so, but lack the strength and courage to act on those wishes. You are the only exception."


    "It didn''t really damage the fiend''s foundations, unfortunately. All I did was snip off some branches and leaves. It''s nothing worth mentioning." Qin Yun looked at Rushou. "Fellow Daoist Rushou, you attempted to snatch my Lotus Seed of Fate the last time we met. Yet, you appear so cordial this time. If there''s anything important, why don''t you get straight to the point?"


    Rushou laughed. "Sword Immortal Qin, you sure don''t beat about the bush. Back then, everyone was trying to snatch the Lotus Seed of Fate. I naturally had to partake in the event. Unfortunately, fate was not on my side. It''s true that there''s an important matter that brings me to you today. I wish that you can help me."


    "You wish for me to help?" Qin Yun looked at him. "What matter in the Three Realms can actually stump you?"


    Rushou was one of the ancient gods. He was powerful and he had a wide circle of acquaintances. Why was there a need to seek his help?


    "There are few things in the Three Realms that can stump me, but beyond the Three Realms¡­ there are several things that stump me," said Rushou.


    "Beyond the Three Realms?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, have you heard of the Chaos spatial rift?" inquired Rushou.


    Qin Yun was taken aback before he shook his head lightly. "Never."


    Rushou nodded with a smile. "Sword Immortal Qin, you haven''t cultivated for long. It''s likely that Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor does not wish to influence your cultivation. It''s very normal that he hasn''t told you. I know that you are constantly seeking immense merit. In the Chaos spatial rift, you will be able to obtain immense merit, probably as much as you wish."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun felt stirred.


    He was now short of ten percent from a Merit Cardinal treasure.


    Although ten percent seemed so little, Qin Yun was at a loss on how to gather that.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, don''t tell me you believe that those in the Three Realms are the only living beings in the expansive Chaos?" said Rushou. "After all, the Three Realms was only a universe formed when Pangu split the heavens from the earth. It''s a trivial speck in the expansive Chaos."


    "There are other living beings beyond the Three Realms?" Qin Yun''s heart quaked as he pressed.


    "Speaking of which, like me, like the other Chaos Godfiends, we are all considered living beings beyond the Three Realms. We were all born out of the Chaos," said Rushou. "And the domain we are in is just a speck in the expansive Chaos. If Pangu can create a universe, can''t other existences do the same? For instance, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are all pondering over the means to open up a new universe."


    "Other universes?" pressed Qin Yun.


    Rushou laughed and continued, "This will then involve the Chaos spatial rift. To pass through it is to be met with boundless spatial tides. Amid the spatial tides, there are paths that lead to our Three Realms and naturally, there are rifts that lead to other domains. We have also discovered the rifts that led to other domains and have remotely spied through the rifts. We have seen powerful beings from other universes, but¡­ no one that entered these other rifts have not returned to date."


    "They failed to return?" Qin Yun pressed. "Then what about sending avatars?"


    "The moment one enters the spatial tide, their connection with the Three Realms is severed. The avatar and the actual body itself will not sense each other," Rushou said. "Therefore, it''s still unknown if the avatars that were sent out are dead or alive."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    What Rushou said alarmed Qin Yun; however, it was believable to him. After all, the expansive Chaos was boundless. It was nothing strange that there were other universes like the Three Realms.


    "No one has returned after heading to the other domains. Then, what is it that you came to me for, Fellow Daoist Rushou?" Qin Yun pressed. "Also, you mentioned gaining immense merit. Where do I earn that?"


    "Haha, we might not dare to enter the other universes through the rift," said Rushou with a laugh. "But amid the spatial tides lurk powerful biological creatures."


    "Biological creatures inside the spatial tides?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Yes, they enjoy hunting lives like us that enter the spatial tides," said Rushou. "We have found nine Chaos spatial rifts in the vicinity of our Three Realms. We have failed to probe the nine domains as well¡­ We have also discovered powerful biological creatures in the spatial tides. One of them is my target! I wish to invite you to help me to kill it together."


    "Just you and me?" asked Qin Yun.


    "And Goumang as well," Rushou said. "Sword Immortal Qin, your Misty Rain Array is peerless in the Three Realms. Your protective means can be said to be the strongest among the perfected Great Dao existences. I need you to cast the Misty Rain Array to withstand any danger. Goumang''s means at constraining the enemy can be deemed as best beneath the Heavenly Dao realm. He would bind and constrain the enemy while I''ll be responsible for killing it."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Rushou grasped the Connate Metal Element Great Dao! In terms of offensive means, he was ranked as one of the best among the perfected Great Dao existences.


    "How will I gain immense merit?" Qin Yun pressed.


    "When we kill the creature, the treasures will belong to me and Goumang. Its corpse will be yours," Rushou said. "As long as you bring its corpse back to the Three Realms and sacrifice it to the Three Realms, the Three Realms will naturally bestow immense merit to you."


    "Sacrifice the corpse to the Three Realms to earn immense merit?" Qin Yun pondered.


    "These creatures of another universe are especially powerful. The powers their corpses contain are beneficial to the Three Realms," said Rushou. "If you can capture these creatures and bring them to the Three Realms before killing them, the merit would be even higher, but capturing them alive is just too difficult."


    Qin Yun also understood.


    The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the Three Realms were constantly declining. Clearly, it was weakening.


    If it gained external aid, it was normal for it to bestow merit in exchange.


    "Do you have confidence in killing it? What is the creature''s strength like?" pressed Qin Yun.


    "That spatial tide can be entered and traversed only by those below the Heavenly Dao realm," Rushou said. "Heavenly Dao experts have no means of entering the spatial tides. The Dao Ancestors had tried early on; therefore, the creatures that lurk in the spatial tides are below the Heavenly Dao realm."


    Qin Yun felt relieved.


    Those at the Heavenly Dao realm could not enter?


    "Of course, they have are strong enough to entrench themselves in the spatial tides and rampantly kill other experts. However, there have been situations in the Three Realms'' history where such powerful beings from other universes have been slain. There''s definitely a chance if the three of us join forces. Of course, when fighting with such powerful beings from a different universe, there can be accidents." Rushou looked at Qin Yun. "Therefore, you will have to consider carefully before choosing to accompany us."


    "Do you have detailed information about the target you wish to kill?" Qin Yun asked.


    "I have information, but not much." Rushou flipped his hand and placed a jade token on the table.


    Qin Yun took the jade token. "I''ll take a look and give you an answer in three days."


    "Alright." Rushou got up with a smile. "Then, I''ll be awaiting your good news."


    With jade token in hand, Qin Yun searched through the information within as he pondered, "Powerful beings from other universes in the spatial tides?"

 665 Beyond the Three Realms

    Moments later in Green Touring Palace.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed respectfully.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure sat cross-legged on a bed of clouds as he slowly opened his eyes. He understood the instant he saw Qin Yun. "Rushou came to you?"


    "He invited me to kill a powerful being together with him in the Chaos spatial rift," Qin Yun reported respectfully.


    "Did you agree?" inquired Numinous Treasure.


    "I''m still pondering over it," said Qin Yun.


    Numinous Treasure nodded slightly. With a flip of his hand, he took out a book and tossed it gently. As the book flew to Qin Yun, he said, "This book contains information regarding the Chaos spatial rift. You can make a decision after reading it!"


    Qin Yun extended his hand to grab the book.


    "I haven''t told you all this while because I wished for you to try your best at accumulating merit in the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure. "I didn''t want you to risk your life in the Chaos spatial rift until the final moment."


    "Risk my life?" Qin Yun looked at his master.


    "In the Three Realms, you are practically unstoppable. Even the Fiend Ancestor, Black Lotus, can''t kill you despite his wishes to do so." Numinous Treasure said seriously, "But once you enter the Chaos spatial rift, it''s difficult to tell what will happen to you. The powerful beings of another universe have unfathomable means. They do not cultivate as immortals, Buddhists, or fiends. For them to dare entrench themselves in the spatial tides to kill other powerful beings, it implies how they are not to be antagonized. Perhaps, there might be one that''s stronger than Hou Yi or you."


    Qin Yun nodded in enlightenment. "I understand. I''ll consider it carefully."


    "Do so; your decision is yours to make," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Then Master, I shall bid you farewell." Qin Yun bowed respectfully before leaving.


    Numinous Treasure watched Qin Yun depart.


    "Unfortunately, there''s no way of entering the Chaos spatial rift after reaching the Heavenly Dao realm," thought Numinous Treasure. "When we leave the Three Realms in the future, we will be able to enter the boundless Chaos and explore it. I wonder if we will get lost, never to return."


    From a particular point of view, Numinous Treasure envied the juniors. The juniors could enter spatial rifts and head to other domains. The Three Realms did not stop them from doing so.


    As for the those at the Heavenly Dao realm, their every action suffered rejection.


    The Three Realms rejected them, and so did the Chaos spatial rift.


    "Before I leave, I hope to see Qin Yun transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations." Numinous Treasure held hope and anticipation.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun returned to his wife and guided his children, granddaughter, and disciple in their sword arts.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, the one who abhors evil, hasn''t been out punishing evil and doing good these past few days. Nor are you cultivating in seclusion. Are you just going to stay home and accompany me?" Yi Xiao smiled as she poured some tea for him and handed it to Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun sat there and drank the tea while smiling at his wife. "My avatar has been around constantly all these years, available for your summoning at any time."


    "It feels different." Yi Xiao laughed and said, "To have the mighty Sword Immortal Qin''s real body here accompanying me, I feel overwhelmed by the honor."


    Qin Yun looked at his wife and chuckled. He said, "In what is to come, my avatar will no longer be able to stay in the manor. All the avatars I have in the Three Realms will dissipate as well."


    "All the avatars will dissipate?" The color in Yi Xiao''s face drained. "Brother Yun, why?"


    To have all avatars dissipate, the common reason was¡ªdeath!


    "Don''t worry. No one in the Three Realms can kill me. I plan on heading into the Chaos, beyond the Three Realms. There is a Chaos spatial rift there," said Qin Yun. "I received the invitation of the ancient deity, Rushou, to head to the Chaos spatial rift. Once I enter, all connections with the outside world would be severed. Therefore, my avatars will lose connection with my body and can no longer be maintained."


    "What kind of place is it that prevents your avatar from being maintained?" Yi Xiao was alarmed. She had never heard of such a thing.


    Her husband was a perfected Great Dao. He was able to maintain his avatars in the Three Realms even while he was in the Chaos.


    "The Chaos spatial rift is very unique," said Qin Yun. "After entering, it''s impossible to contact the outside world. Therefore, I have to tell you, lest you worry."


    "Is there any danger?" inquired Yi Xiao.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "However, the danger isn''t too great. If Rushou, an ancient deity who has lived for so many years, dares to enter, I''ll definitely dare to as well."


    "Is there a need to?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "I''m still lacking great amounts of merit needed to obtain a Merit Cardinal treasure. That place is most suitable for me to earn great merit. After my Misty Rain Sword becomes a Merit Cardinal treasure, the chances of me transcending the tribulations will increase exponentially."


    "How long will you be gone?" Yi Xiao pressed.


    "No idea," Qin Yun said. "Under normal circumstances, A hundred plus years would be sufficient. If something unexpected happens, it will be hard to tell."


    Yi Xiao lowered her head as she sipped her tea. Nodding, she said, "I understand. You don''t have to worry about the household. Go do what you need to do."


    Qin Yun extended his hand to grasp his wife''s hand. "Xiaoxiao, if I can transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, there will be no need for you to worry for me ever again."


    Yi Xiao looked at her husband and smiled. "Brother Yun, that''s what you said."


    On the same day.


    Qin Yun did not tell his children before leaving silently as his wife sent him off.


    "Remember, be careful," said Yi Xiao.


    "Wait for my return." Qin Yun nodded. Following that, he stepped across the void and vanished.


    Yi Xiao stood alone at the peak of Mt. Lightning Roar. His departure this time was different. Even his avatar wasn''t around. He had gone to the Chaos spatial rift beyond the Three Realms. Yi Xiao was filled with worry, but she understood why he had to go¡­ Qin Yun was making preparations for his future Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    ******


    Three Realms. Ordinary flight would take forever due to the infinite distance.


    Only mighty figures who had sufficiently grasp over space-time could find the boundary of the Three Realms.


    "Whoosh."


    Deep in space, there was a splatter of crimson. It was jiggling like a fetus''s membrane and it was the boundary of the Three Realms.


    "This is my first time at the boundary of the Three Realms." Qin Yun looked at the endless boundary of the Three Realms. With a step, he would pass through the spatial boundary and enter a realm beyond the Three Realms.


    Whoosh~


    Like a mortal jumping into the water from land.


    The environment was completely different!


    The interior of the Three Realms was filled with Heaven and Earth spiritual energies and there was the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao protection. But once he passed through the Three Realms boundary, he would lose the protection and suffer the obstreperous surge of the Chaos.


    "Oh? This power of Chaos is being constantly absorbed by the Three Realms?" Qin Yun saw that the Three Realms'' membrane was absorbing the power of Chaos. "Yet, the Three Realms is still weakening. Could it be that the power of Chaos does not give any fundamental help to the Three Realms?"


    Qin Yun had extraordinary insight at present. He could sense that the Three Realms'' absorption of the power of Chaos did little for it.


    The power of Chaos could not replenish the truly fundamental powers!


    If he were to slay powerful beings of other universes and offer them to the Three Realms, it would likely be able to replenish some of its fundamental powers. That was how great merit could descend upon him.


    "I wonder how Pangu split the heaven from earth to form the Three Realms back then," thought Qin Yun. "Master and company have failed to do so even after reaching the Heavenly Dao realm."


    Sou!


    After some thought, Qin Yun continued heading forward.


    He was not worried about getting lost in the Chaos since the massive Three Realms was like a lighthouse in the fog. As long as he remained a certain distance from the Three Realms, he would be able to sense it.


    Qin Yun could sense that space remained extensive in the void. With a step, he traversed immense distance and, after nearly twenty times, he arrived in front of Rushou''s cave abode. Qin Yun knew very well that the range of space he sensed wasn''t all of it. Heavenly Dao realm existences like his master could cover a much wider range with a thought. It would exceed the range that would have already left Qin Yun lost.


    "Whoosh." Qin Yun descended outside the cave abode.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you are the last. Brother Goumang arrived a long time ago." A golden-armored Rushou smiled as he welcomed Qin Yun. Beside him was an azure-robed elder.

 666 Spatial Tide

    "Greetings, Fellow Daoist Rushou, Fellow Daoist Goumang," Qin Yun greeted politely as well. An intense battle was about to happen in the Chaos spatial rift, and these two would become his partners in life and death.


    Wood God Goumang was dressed in azure robes; his hair and skin were azure in color as well.


    Legend had it that his true form was that of a tree.


    "Sword Immortal Qin." Goumang nodded with a smile. "I''ve long heard of you. You drained away Daoist Wen and swept through the Skyfiends in the Three Realms. Everything you have done has amazed me. I finally get to meet you today."


    "How can the Three Realms not be amazed with your crossing of the fiends in such a manner?" Rushou laughed. "Let''s not stand here. Have a seat inside."


    Qin Yun smiled as he entered with Rushou and Goumang.


    As Rushou''s cave abode was in the Chaos, it was rather desolate. He only had a few disciples and servants. They all lived inside the cave abode, and stayed there most of the time. Any excursions to the Three Realms required Rushou''s help.


    In one of the cave abode''s yards.


    Qin Yun, Rushou, and Goumang took their seats and discussed over drinks.


    "The feeling of being in the Chaos is different." Qin Yun looked up and out into the endless Chaos outside the cave abode. He even took in the universe and sensed how he was no longer in the Three Realms, but in the vast Chaos. "It''s no wonder that Fellow Daoist Rushou and Fellow Daoist Goumang live in reclusion in the Chaos."


    "We were born from the Chaos, so cultivating in the Chaos is the best," said Goumang with a smile. "We do not like the internal strife in the Three Realms, so we reside permanently in the Chaos."


    "Cultivating and gaining enlightenment in the Chaos is different indeed." Qin Yun sensed.


    "The Three Realms was born out of the Chaos. The rules of how the Chaos evolves are a lot magnificent than the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao," Rushou said. "For instance, your master''s Immortal Vanquishing Array''s four divine swords and the other Connate Cardinal treasures in the Three Realms, like the Qingping Sword, Lotus Seed of Fate, and others were all born out of the Chaos. As Chaos Godfiends, we were also born out of the Chaos."


    "The moment we were born, we grasped a perfected Great Dao," Rushou said wistfully. "Once those Connate Cardinal treasures are born, they contain a complete perfected Great Dao. Even Mighty God Pangu was born out of the Chaos. Compared to the Three Realms, the Chaos is a lot more magical."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "These Great Dao were born out of the Chaos, just mere results of the Chaos''s evolutionary laws," said Rushou. "It''s naturally different cultivating in the Chaos."


    "Hmm."


    Qin Yun raised his head at the boundless Chaos. "Rules fill every plane. The Tenebrous Fiend Abyss has the Fiendish Heavenly Dao and most parts of the Three Realms have the Three Realms Heavenly Dao. The Chaos also has its rules of evolution.


    "To be honest, I once thought about the existence of Itinerant Immortal tribulations in the Three Realms when I became an Itinerant Immortal. Then, will there still be a Heavenly Tribulation outside the Three Realms?" Qin Yun chuckled. "Now, I have learned that there''s nowhere to hide."


    "Haha, if you could escape it while inside the Chaos, your master would have long sent you here. Those Chaos Godfiends who once cultivated in the Itinerant Immortal path would have long hidden here," said Goumang with a laugh. "Early on, we Chaos Godfiends had all cultivated in the Chaos. The Three Pure Ones had also figured out the Daoist cultivation Dharmic formulations in the Chaos. Many of the Dharmic formulations of Buddhism and Daoism had their roots in the Chaos. Naturally, the Itinerant Immortal tribulations will befall you in the Chaos as well."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "It can''t be avoided."


    "Cultivation was never easy to begin with. Every improvement is extremely arduous," Rushou added. "Of course, Sword Immortal Qin, your cultivation has been nothing but fast. You are much faster than us old guys."


    "Let''s leave that until I transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations," said Qin Yun. "By the way, on our trip to deal with the powerful beings of another universe in the Chaos spatial rift, is there any detailed plan?"


    "There''s too little information about the powerful being," Rushou said. "We only know that one pounding from him delivers immense strength. We do not fully believe in such intelligence. Perhaps it''s a way for these powerful beings to fool people from other universes. His true means might even be completely different. I invited you as a contingency."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    "Regardless, no matter how powerful the being is inside the spatial tides, he is below the Heavenly Dao realm! With Sword Immortal Qin joining us, we will already be undefeatable," said Rushou.


    "Fellow Daoist Rushou, I can see your trust in me." Qin Yun chuckled. "All I can say is that I''ll do my best."


    "I obviously trust you. You are recognized by all in the Three Realms as having the best protective means among the perfected Great Dao," Rushou said.


    Goumang laughed as well. "Haha, Sword Immortal Qin. I''m not afraid of dying when entering since I have an avatar! If my true form dies, my avatar can slowly cultivate to recover. Rushou only has one true body. He will really be risking his life when he enters the Chaos spatial rift. By inviting you, he is handing his life to you."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I''m also risking my life on this venture."


    Both he and Rushou did not have avatars that could regenerate.


    Wood God Goumang had an avatar, one that was very special. His actual body was a tree! As long as he left some branches or roots elsewhere, they would become his avatars. Even if his main form died in combat, the branches could slowly cultivate over time to become a brand new Wood God Goumang. This was also the reason why Goumang was willing to enter the Chaos spatial rift.


    "The both of us will being risking our lives." Rushou smiled. "Living an abject existence is pointless. Risk is still necessary. There are still many things worth risking our lives for the cultivation path."


    "I wouldn''t be the same. If I can have a free and eternal life, I wouldn''t enter that easily." Qin Yun laughed.


    "Hahaha¡­ Sword Immortal Qin sure doesn''t mince his words." Rushou roared with laughter.


    ¡­


    They conversed casually, talking about their target and the plans for various scenarios.


    Different situations required different plans.


    The three of them discussed for four hours before everything was settled. Only then did they set off together.


    "Whoosh."


    The three of them rushed through the Chaos, constantly traversing distant space, and getting further from the Three Realms.


    Qin Yun''s sensing of the Three Realms gradually weakened. If he were to lose it, he would be at risk of being lost.


    "Up ahead is the Chaos spatial rift," Rushou said.


    Qin Yun also saw it.


    It was enveloped by a massive array formation.


    "This array formation was mainly set up by Goddess N¨¹wa, while the other three Dao Ancestors supported her," Rushou said. "In the nine Chaos spatial rifts we discovered around the Three Realms, each rift had an array formation set up by Goddess N¨¹wa and the Dao Ancestors. If any visitors from other universes were to enter through these Chaos spatial rifts, they would find themselves trapped in the array formation. Visitors below the Heavenly Dao realm would not be able to resist the massive arrays set up by Goddess N¨¹wa and company."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    It was indeed ruthless.


    Only those below the Heavenly Dao realm could pass through the Chaos spatial rifts, but the moment they did so, they would end up facing an array jointly set up by a few Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    "Let''s enter," Rushou said. Qin Yun and Goumang followed.


    The massive array formation had an array spirit which knew that Rushou, Qin Yun, and Goumang were friendly. Therefore, they were not stopped.


    Whoosh.


    After easily passing through the array, Qin Yun saw it.


    It was a huge spatial rift in the Chaos. Qin Yun, Rushou, and Goumang exchanged looks before flying in.


    Qin Yun used his Misty Rain Sword to conjure the Misty Rain domain that enveloped them. Rushou and Goumang also used various domain means to surround them. The three domains did not reject each other, but augmented each other, completely protecting them.


    "Boom!"


    After flying into the spatial rift, they entered the boundless spatial tides as the spatial tidal waves swept wave after wave.


    The trio flew together.


    "We can only fly slowly here. Make sure not to tunnel through space." Rushou smiled. "If you do so, who knows where the spatial tides might carry you to."


    "According to the intelligence, we have to go against the tidal waves and fly for more than six decades before reaching the destination," Goumang said.


    "Let''s fly slowly." Qin Yun smiled.


    The trio flew patiently. Their realms were extraordinary, and they were not swept away by the spatial tides around them. If someone weaker was here, they would be easily swept away by the spatial tides.


    After a few days of flight.


    "Look, there''s a spatial rift over there as well." Rushou pointed a distance away.


    Qin Yun cast his gaze and saw a huge spatial rift a distance away. There was purple light exuding from the rift''s internals.


    "That rift might link to another universe similar to the Three Realms." Rushou chuckled. "But no one knows what it''s like without entering."


    "If you enter, you might end up swept into a trap prepared by Heavenly Dao realm existences of another universe," Qin Yun said.


    "Therefore, one has to be careful. Only by being careful can one live long." Goumang chuckled.


    They continued proceeding forward.


    The spatial tides were endless. Like three fishes, they swam upstream and, after spending 68 years doing so, they finally arrived at their destination.

 667 Taking Action

    It was Qin Yun''s first time entering a spatial tide. He found it quite interesting at the beginning of their journey, gazing upon the gorgeous sights in the spatial tide. It broadened his horizons, but gradually it turned lonely and monotonous. Qin Yun, Rushou, and Goumang all had extraordinary characters. As they flew, they diverted their attention towards cultivation. With that, 68 years passed without them realizing it.


    "We''ve finally arrived!" Qin Yun, Rushou, Goumang and company looked ahead in excitement. In the boundless spatial tide was a floating mountain. They could vaguely make out buildings on the mountain which was their destination.


    "The powerful being from a different universe is on that mountain." Rushou smiled as he shot Qin Yun a glance. "Sword Immortal Qin, you have never flown for 68 years straight on a journey, right?"


    "I was recruited by the Green Touring Palace early on and was able to reach anywhere in the Three Realms easily. It''s indeed my first time having flown for more than six decades." Qin Yun smiled in reply while observing the mountain carefully. The mountain was black and void of vegetation. All he saw was some black light scattering which suppressed the surroundings.


    The architectural styles of the buildings were different from that of the Three Realms. It was cruder and simpler.


    Goumang stared at the mountain. "The means available to powerful beings of other universes are hard to predict. Both of you have your true bodies here, so you have to be careful."


    "Don''t worry," Rushou said. "Let''s head over."


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun was very solemn as well as he went on maximum alert.


    Three beams of light approached the mountain.


    "Hahaha¡­ My Mt. Blackwater hasn''t had guests in a long while. Welcome." A rich baritone voice sounded from the mountain. Simultaneously, golden light bloomed from deep within the mountain, transforming into a golden pathway that extended in front of Qin Yun and company.


    A group of coquettish women flew over as they waited politely by the two sides of the golden pathway.


    The trio was slightly taken aback.


    These coquettish women were in human form as well. However, their heads had two blood-colored curved horns. On their backs were a pair of blood-colored wings and their eyes had a sanguine glow. They effused a stunning charm.


    "Welcoming us?" Qin Yun, Goumang, and Rushou exchanged looks. All of them were alarmed and puzzled. Although they had never heard the language used by the mountain''s owner, they could instantly communicate through the intention conveyed by the language at their levels.


    "He extended us an invitation to enter despite recognizing us as visitors from a different universe?" Qin Yun said with a voice transmission.


    "Since he dares invite us, we will definitely dare enter," said Rushou.


    "Let''s go."


    Qin Yun and Goumang nodded.


    The trio followed the golden path and flew in.


    While flying, they observed the coquettish women beside them.


    "These women have both form and spirit, but they are illusory condensations and not real beings." Goumang observed as he said with a voice transmission.


    "If there are that many powerful beings that survive in the spatial tides, it''s impossible for them to stay here alone," said Rushou.


    Qin Yun instead stared far away.


    He saw it!


    There was a majestic palace inside the mountain. In it was a black rock throne and sitting on that throne was a giant. The giant was muscular and dressed in a gorgeous robes, and he looked far into the distance at the approaching trio.


    "What a powerful vital aura." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "His vital aura is stronger than Rushou''s and mine. It''s comparable to Goumang''s. Goumang is a Wood God and his true form is that of a huge tree. His vital aura is considered one of the best among the perfected Great Dao in the Three Realms."


    The only being whose vital aura could compare with Goumang''s in the Three Realms was the dragons'' Ancestral Dragon.


    For their target to be of the same level, it left Qin Yun, Rushou, and Goumang even warier.


    "Guests, please have a seat," said the giant with a smile "It''s rare for me to have guests. Now that three are here¡­ I''m truly delighted."


    Meanwhile, many coquettish women served wine and delicacies.


    "These are some of the finest wine and food from my hometown. Please, have some." the giant smiled.


    "We wouldn''t dare eat what you offer." Rushou carefully observed his surroundings. "I have already checked our surroundings. There are no array formations or traps around us. You sure are confident."


    "Why should I lay a trap? Is there a prey?" The giant smiled. "I don''t see any prey, just three guests. It''s so rare to encounter guests from another universe in this spatial tide. Why should we engage in slaughter? Sit and enjoy the wine. Let''s have a good chat, shall we?"


    "There''s no need for the food and drink," Rushou said. "But a chat is possible."


    Qin Yun and Goumang listened by the side and did not interject. The operation was led by Rushou since he was the one who invited the two of them.


    "Not eating?"


    The giant looked at the fine wine and food and invited them sincerely, "Are you really not eating such delicious food? These were brought from my homeworld. Every bit eaten means one bit less."


    "There''s no need." Goumang said as well.


    The giant looked at the trio and knew that any further invitations for them to eat would be in vain. He immediately shook his head. "If it''s not eaten, it will be wasted. Do you know what I hate the most? It''s the wastage of food. All who waste food deserve death!"


    With that said, his eyes turned sharp.


    Whoosh!


    The large numbers of coquettish female servants dissipated. Black water pattered down from an island.


    "If you aren''t eating my fine wine and food, have a taste of my Mt. Blackwater''s black water!" said the giant coldly. He appeared courteous on the surface and the island did not appear to have any traps, but the food and drink had been tampered with! As long as a visitor from a different universe believed in their strength and consumed the food and drink, he was 99% certain he could control the visitor.


    Since they were neither eating or drinking, he could only do it the hard way!


    "Black water?"


    Qin Yun looked at the black water that came splashing down. There was even black water droplets fluttering over from within the palace.


    With a thought, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain domain fended off the black water droplets. There were sizzling sounds as the black water droplets began a conflict with the Misty Rain domain. The Misty Rain domain which Qin Yun had cast with an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure was ranked within the top few among the perfected Great Dao in the Three Realms. Now, although the black water droplets were lethal and heavy, they were still fended off, with no way to intrude further.


    Furthermore, the Misty Rain domain not only repelled the black water, it even enveloped the giant.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The black water droplets turned into tiny black winged figures. Thousands of them held long spears and they were each the size of a finger. The dense horde of tiny black figures swarmed towards the palace and attacked Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Each raindrop in the drizzle within the Misty Rain domain also transformed into a flying sword. Countless flying swords met the tiny black figures and engaged in battle. With Qin Yun''s attainments in sword arts, every flying sword killed a tiny black figure. However, the lethal poison from the tiny black figures still corroded the drizzle flying swords. After three bouts of corrosion, a rain flying sword would collapse.


    Thankfully, maintaining the domain was a very easy task.


    "For the domain''s flying sword to collapse after three bouts of corrosion, this black water''s poison sure is terrifying," said Rushou.


    "If it taints one''s flesh, probably you and Sword Immortal Qin won''t be able to take it," Goumang said via voice transmission.


    Elsewhere.


    The giant was very astonished.


    "Your domain can actually suppress my black water." The giant looked at Qin Yun. "In terms of domains, you are ranked in the top five among all the opponents I''ve met. As for the two of you¡ª


    Before he finished his sentence, Rushou had already waved his right hand. A golden beam shot out and appeared right in front of the giant.


    The giant also slowed down when suppressed by the Misty Rain domain. He failed to use his weapon in time, so all he could do was extend his left hand to block his face.


    "Pfft!"


    The golden beam tore through his palm and pierced his face.


    Golden light appeared once again. It was a sharp and golden pole arm. It penetrated the giant palm and stabbed into a part of the giant''s face.


    "Oh?" Rushou frowned. With a beckon, the golden pole arm dissipated as a blob of golden light flew back into his sleeves.


    "You actually hurt me? You hurt me? Hahaha¡­ Interesting. Interesting." The giant laughed out loud. Simultaneously, his body expanded rapidly. His massive body instantly smashed through the palace, turning it to dust. In a blink of an eye, he had become a hundred times bigger. His single foot was about the same size as the palace from before. He reached out his hand and a gigantic hammer appeared in his hand. Swirling around the hammer was black water.


    The towering giant held the hammer in hand as he roared. His roar shook the entire mountain.


    "Come on!"


    "Show me what you got."


    "Don''t you die in an instant!"


    The giant stamped his foot and charged over. At the same time, he swung his hammer down. Smashing down with the size and force of a mountain, it was attempting to crush Qin Yun and company into pulp.

 668 Captured Alive

    "What a ferocious strike." Qin Yun and Goumang were astonished, but they did not waver at all. One of them reigned supreme in the Three Realms with his sword array while the other was a Chaos Wood God. Both of them could deal with the blow.


    Rushou''s eyes, meanwhile, burned with fighting spirit. He extended his right hand as the golden light in his hand transformed into a large golden ax. He cleaved it towards the hammer that came slamming down like a mountain. The disparity in size was just too big. Rushou was only slightly more stout than Qin Yun and the golden ax he swung was only dozens of feet long. Compared to the hammer, it could not be any smaller.


    Bam!


    The collision produced visible shock waves that surged in every direction.


    Rushou was thrown back from the clash as the towering giant only stumbled. He widened his eyes at the golden-armored Rushou. "What immense strength!"


    "I''ve never been afraid of frontal clashes." Rushou looked up and sneered. "Fool, your weaknesses only become more apparent at this size!"


    Whoosh.


    Rushou transformed into a golden afterimage due to his stunning speed. He arrived by the giant''s head and sliced across with the golden saber in his hand.


    The giant barely turned his head to avoid the slash.


    Whoosh.


    Rushou flashed again as a sword stabbed down from above the giant''s head. In response, the giant hurriedly raised one palm to block and, with the sound of metal meeting flesh, the sword penetrated the palm. However, after the palm grew in size, it also turned thicker and had stronger defense. All Rushou''s golden sword did was stab about ten feet deep, barely ripping through the giant''s epidermal layer and touching only flesh.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    Rushou was exceedingly fast. His means of close combat were unfathomable and the weapon in his hands changed constantly.


    Sometimes he swung heavy weapons like an ax or hammer, other times he held a spear or a club.


    There were even projectiles¡­


    As Metal God who was ranked equal to Zhurong, Gonggong, Houtu, and Goumang, Rushou wielded the Connate Cardinal treasure Golden Tiger Claw. He studied the Connate Metal Great Dao and his means were famous for being unyielding and indomitably sharp! The Connate Cardinal treasure Golden Tiger Claw could undergo thousands of changes and transform into any weapon. Rushou could also perfectly wield any weapon. Even his archery skills were powered by his Connate Metal Great Dao. Its might was equally alarming.


    "Boom!"


    Rushou stood in midair with golden bow and arrow in hand. When he shot the arrow, it moved at such a fast speed that the giant failed to block it with his weapon. All he could do was turn to the side, causing the flesh and blood at his shoulder to blast apart, revealing a bloody hole ten feet wide. However, on the giant''s massive body, it remained inconspicuous.


    "Transform." Rushou''s eyes lit up as his arrow transformed into a tiny sword that burrowed deep into the giant''s body.


    However, the injury at the giant''s shoulder rapidly healed. It constantly made it difficult for the tiny sword to penetrate deeper.


    "His body is really strong, far stronger than Daoist Wen whom you killed, Sword Immortal Qin." Rushou sent a voice transmission. "In the Three Realms, perhaps only that old bastard from the dragons can suppress him."


    "Very good. Your weapon is very powerful with all its myriad changes. Unfortunately, your strength is just slightly weaker than mine." The giant roared with laughter, clearly satisfied with Rushou''s strength.


    "Goumang, I need your help." Rushou sent a voice transmission.


    "Alright."


    Goumang nodded.


    He stood in his spot and his vines began growing out from his body. Dozens of vines instantly grew extremely long as they bound the towering giant. With a sudden change in expression, the giant flailed his hammer, smashing, cleaving, sweeping¡­ He employed various means, but the vines were extremely malleable and flexible. Regardless of his raging blows, the vines managed to distort and bind him.


    They bound his feet, arms, waist, and throat¡­


    He was bound everywhere.


    When the giant shrank his body, the vines shrank with him.


    When the giant dodged, the vines blocked his path.


    The giant grabbed at vines, using his strength to yank them apart, but the other vines still extended over, quickly reconnecting with the torn vines.


    Regardless of how he struggled, he ended up completely bound.


    "No, no¡ª" The giant failed to escape the restraint and involuntarily collapsed to the ground, crushing many buildings in the process. His hammer felt to the side as he struggled with all his might. His immense strength caused cracks to appear in the vines, but they contained endless vitality, so the cracks was instantly healed.


    "His strength is greater than mine, and his body is stronger. Unfortunately, everything has its vanquisher. No amount of struggle is useful when you meet Brother Goumang." Rushou laughed.


    Goumang smiled as well. "He''s still struggling. I have to use more strength to ensnare him." Three vines grew out from his body and wrapped the lofty giant, preventing him from resisting any further. A total of 43 vines bound him and all his furious shouts and struggles were futile.


    "It looks like there''s no need for me." Qin Yun laughed as he watched this play out before him. "Brother Goumang easily took him down."


    "I only happened to be his nemesis," said Goumang. "However, his resistance is still very impressive. Rushou, I have already ensnared him. Kill him while he can''t resist. We still need to return and you don''t expect me to keep him trapped for 68 years, right? That would be exhausting."


    The maintaining of the ensnarement indeed drained him greatly.


    "Alright."


    Rushou nodded. He extended his hand as countless beads of golden sand appeared above his palm before flying towards the towering giant.


    By the side, Goumang introduced the sand to Qin Yun. "Rushou''s Connate Cardinal treasure, Golden Tiger Claw, has a myriad transformations. And in this golden sand form, its best at wearing down those with strong bodies. Eventually, these bodies will be ground to dust."


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Countless grains of golden sand burrowed through the giant''s nostrils, but were soon met with an obstruction.


    "He can change the internal structure of his body. He completely sealed off his nasal passageways." Rushou laughed. "But it''s futile. Even rocks can be penetrated by dripping water. The golden sand can weather anything, it will definitely be able to enter your body and destroy you."


    The golden sand burrowed in the direction of his chest.


    Soon, a hole was drilled open. However, after the towering giant increased in size, the veins and muscles at his chest were thousands of feet thick. As the golden sand drilled down, the muscles constantly recovered and squeezed at the golden sand.


    "T-this¡­" Rushou revealed a look of alarm. "He has been ensnared to the point of zero resistance; yet, I''m unable to drill through his body?"


    "Hahaha, this is an innate talent of mine." The giant continue laughing despite being bound. "After my gigantification, my body''s defense will be more than ten times stronger. You can capture me alive, but you can forget about killing me. Also, you who''s good at restraintment, you will need to continuously expend energy to hold me down. I''ll be free when you are exhausted of your energy."


    "What do we do?" Rushou looked at Goumang and Qin Yun.


    "I won''t be able to kill him if you can''t. It took me months to kill Daoist Wen. His body is a lot more powerful than Daoist Wen''s." Qin Yun shook his head.


    Goumang said helplessly as well, "Since we can''t kill him, the only way is to take him back while restraining him. I can still afford the Dharmic power expenditure for 68 years."


    As a Wood God, he had immense Dharmic powers.


    "I''ll have to trouble you then, Brother Goumang," said Rushou.


    "That''s it? That''s the end?" Qin Yun was astonished, but he also felt relieved. It was indeed considered easy. All he did was cast his Misty Rain domain to help defend against the black water, and Goumang captured the enemy alive.


    Although the bound giant was roaring angrily on the surface and struggling, he was, in fact, observing the trio. "Among these three prey, the one who engaged in close combat with me has a very strong body. He''s just slightly weaker than me. And this one that bound me should have a plant as his true form. His vitality is in no way inferior to mine. He''s the most difficult to deal with. Instead, it''s the one who''s good at domains that appears to have a soul body. He has the weakest body of the three. He hid the furthest in this battle. He should be the easiest to kill."

 669 Trap

    43 vines extended from Goumang''s body and bound the towering giant.


    "He continues struggling." Goumang felt somewhat exasperated while saying, "Rushou, it''s about time we return?"


    "Hold on."


    Rushou carefully looked at the mountain and pondered. "That this mountain can stably exist in this spatial tide makes it quite a treasure. Let us store away this mountain first before returning."


    "Do it quick then!" Qin Yun urged with a smile.


    "Store away the mountain?" The bound giant turned alarm. "The moment they attempt to store the mountain, they will discover the secret within. Yes, action has to be taken now!"


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun, Goumang, and Rushou had a change in expression.


    They saw the struggling giant''s aura suddenly weaken.


    "His aura is weakening."


    "He''s already a corpse!"


    Qin Yun and company were astonished to see the towering giant''s corpse. He had a powerful body that prevented them from killing him. Yet, now it suddenly turned into a corpse. This left Qin Yun unsettled as his wariness was pushed to the limit.


    At the instant the giant turned into a corpse¡ª


    In a different region deep in the mountain, there were three potent auras billowing. Among these auras, one was wild and intractable, one ethereal and dark, and the final one was infinitely cold.


    "Careful." Qin Yun, Rushou, Goumang wore serious expressions. Rushou immediately said, "There''s another powerful being."


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Three figures flew out from beneath the mountain and appeared in midair.


    The intractable aura covered the form of a stocky humanoid creature. He had four arms and nine ferocious dragon heads on his shoulders. The head in the middle was the biggest while the eight other heads were smaller in size. The dragon head was different from those of dragons in the Three Realms. It was more grotesque and evil-looking. Its four palms were also filled with infinitely sharp claws.


    The ethereal aura belonged to a humanoid fog draped under a black robe. The fog was also looking at Qin Yun and company.


    The icy aura was produced by a silver-haired, silver-eyed woman. She stood there like she was ruler of the world as she looked down upon Qin Yun and company.


    The woman stood in the middle of the trio, making her standing apparently higher.


    "I knew it. To dare entrench yourself in the spatial tide for such a long period of time to hunt other powerful beings, there''s no way it would be easy." Rushou sent a voice transmission to Qin Yun and Goumang when he saw this. "Although we captured the giant, I still felt unease and guessed there might still be a trap. If there was a trap, it would likely be inside the mountain. Therefore, I made an attempt¡­ Who knew it would bear fruit."


    "I''d prefer it not bear fruit," Goumang turned extremely serious as he said via voice transmission. "There was one just now, but now we have three."


    "Brother Goumang, continue binding that giant. His sudden death is somewhat odd. He might revive at anytime," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "Don''t worry," Goumang replied.


    And in midair, the woman among the three figures said coldly, "To force my awakening, it serves to show that the three of you have considerable strength. However, this will be the end!" The woman extended her hands as countless icicles condensed around her, forming eighteen frosty halo discs that emanated a terrifying aura.


    "Vanquish!" The women waved with both hands.


    The eighteen frosty halo discs flew forward.


    Qin Yun hurriedly put up a defense with his Misty Rain domain and broke off large numbers of drizzle flying swords to fend off the attack, but every frosty halo disc was extremely sharp. They easy sliced through the drizzle flying swords and went straight for Qin Yun, Rushou, and Goumang. Goumang immediately extended vines from his body.


    The long vines interlocked with one another as they blocked the discs in midair.


    Bam¡ª


    Although resilient, the frosty halo discs paused slightly, but still managed to slice through each and every vine. In a blink of an eye, eighteen vines were sliced through, alarming Goumang. "How is that possible!?"


    "What terrifying strength." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "That frosty halo disc is a more profound use of space-time. It should be something that can only be cast by someone with profound insight into the Great Dao of Space-time. Its blade can even slice apart the space-time continuum. Nothing can stand in its way. My Misty Rain domain is nothing compared to it, and even Goumang can''t stop it."


    "Pu¡­ Pu¡­ Pu¡­ Pu¡­"


    The frosty halo discs quickly sliced through the vines and approached Goumang.


    Clearly, the plan was to finish Goumang first!


    "Don''t struggle. It''s futile," said the nine-headed being. With a flash, he lunged towards Rushou with a surging inferno. He struck down with his claw. "Crack!"


    Rushou immediately defended with his Connate Cardinal treasure, Golden Tiger Claw.


    "Dang!"


    It was a heavy clash.


    Rushou stumbled backwards, but the nine-headed being only grew stronger. His four arms began casting mystic arts as he charged once more.


    "His close combat skills are above mine!" Rushou was somewhat alarmed.


    "Whoosh."


    The humanoid fog in a black robe lunged forward with the nine-headed being. The latter''s target was Rushou, while the humanoid fog targeted Qin Yun.


    "Your body is the weakest. You should be the easiest to kill." The fog''s voice sounded as he attacked. "Come, enter my Tenebrous Divine Sea and become a part of me."


    "I''m the easiest to kill?"


    Qin Yun directed with his mind.


    Large amounts of drizzle sword beams spiraled around him, forming a sword array.


    The black-robed fog slammed into the sword array and was stopped. However, he constantly eroded away the array which did not seem capable of lasting long.


    "Although it''s not an array cast by my Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, just this array cast by sword beams should be able to fend off the typical perfected Great Dao expert. Yet this being from a different universe¡­ his entire body seems to be an enigmatic force in and of itself. It constantly eats away at my sword beams," thought Qin Yun.


    "Don''t resist. The two of them are useless and will die. However, your binding technique is quite impressive. I won''t kill you, but capture you alive instead." The silver-haired woman looked at Goumang as her eighteen frosty halo discs kept slicing. The vines continued flailing after being sliced through in defense. Simultaneously, the sliced parts began healing despite not doing so as fast as they were destroyed.


    Goumang said via voice transmission, "Brother Rushou, Sword Immortal Qin, the being from the other universe said that the two of you are useless and that they plan to kill you. I''m useful so they plan to capture me alive. It looks like I''m stronger than the both of you. Haha¡­"


    "Sword Immortal Qin, quick take action. I can''t hold on much longer." Rushou sent a voice transmission hurriedly, sounding the most pathetic. He was embroiled in close-combat with the nine-headed being.


    Both of them were adept at close combat.


    However, it was apparent that the nine-headed expert was stronger. He restrained him in every aspect and it would probably only be a few more seconds before Rushou was taken down.


    "I''m slightly better than him, but I can''t last much longer either. This woman from a different universe has impressive attainments in space-time," Goumang said via voice transmission as well. "Sword Immortal Qin, quickly take action."


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun''s mind stirred first. As such, the sword beam array immediately failed to stop the black-robed fog.


    "Hahaha¡­ prepare to die." The fog laughed boisterously as it rapidly lunged for Qin Yun.


    As Qin Yun watched him laugh, he waved his hand. It left the fog surprised as it felt something amiss.


    A blurry Misty Rain Sword flew out from Qin Yun''s finger and instantly dissociated into three.


    The three swords were the Heaven, Earth, and Man swords.


    "Whoosh~"


    The drizzle continued as it immersed the surrounding area, enveloping both the nine-headed being and the black-robed fog within. As for the eighteen frosty halo discs, they were left outside the array formation. As such, the silver-haired woman was also left outside the array formation.


    The strongest protective array in the perfected Great Dao realm of the Three Realms, the Misty Rain Array, had appeared!


    The moment the array formation appeared, the nine-headed being and the black-robed fog were trapped inside the array formation, with the silver-haired woman outside. They were separated by the array formation.


    "Retract." Goumang''s flailing vines rapidly retracted through the blurry Misty Rain Array which did not put up any obstruction.


    "Array formation? Begone!" The eighteen frosty halo discs immediately bore down and sliced at the blurry barrier of the Misty Rain Array. However, it was extremely resilient, far stronger than Goumang''s vines! Every Great Dao had an inclination, and Qin Yun''s three Great Dao was the most suitable for defense. In order to transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, he had placed most of his effort on his protective array formation.


    By casting it with his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure, the strength of the Misty Rain Array was terrifyingly potent.


    The eighteen frosty halo discs continued their barrage of attacks, but they failed to do a thing to the Misty Rain Array.


    "No good." The nine-headed expert and the black-robed fog immediately found it ominous. Both of them immediately charged outwards.


    "Kill the both of them first before we deal with that woman," said Qin Yun.

 670 Slaying

    "Crack!"


    "Open!"


    The nine-headed expert struck out with his claws in a bid to tear apart the array formation. As for the black-robed fog, he lunged towards the array formation and attempted to damage it through corrosion. They delivered their attacks¡ªa combination of violence and subtlety¡ªwith all their might.


    Meanwhile, the silver-haired woman outside the array formation cast her eighteen frosty halo discs in a bid to tear open the array as well.


    However, the Misty Rain Array reverberated silently in its blurry state, diverting all the impact away.


    "My Misty Rain Array is best at defense. It''s slightly weaker at trapping enemies," thought Qin Yun. "It''s easier to charge out of the Misty Rain Array by attacking from inside! Among the three, the woman''s offensive means are most terrifying. If I had trapped all three of them within, their joint efforts would give them a chance of escaping. But by only trapping the two of them, with one of them being good at close combat and the other having a strange body, there''s no hope for them."


    If the silver-haired woman was in the array, she would pose some threat to Qin Yun.


    But outside?


    Her means were still far from sufficient if she could only attack the Misty Rain Array from the outside.


    "Three Absolutes Seven Stars, arise!"


    Qin Yun continued casting his attacks.


    Billions of Sword Qi amassed in the Misty Rain Sword, forming a gigantic Sword Qi vortex which began embroiling the nine-headed expert and the black-robed fog.


    "No good." After being enveloped by the Sword Qi vortex, the two figures felt all kinds of restraints, of a kind that was more terrifying than the Misty Rain domain. Both of them immediately had about thirty percent of their strength shaved away.


    "Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!" Goumang immediately diverted dozens of new vines to reach towards the duo.


    Having been suppressed by the Misty Rain Array''s Three Absolutes Seven Stars, the duo''s strength was greatly weakened, preventing them from withstanding Goumang''s vines.


    The vines began to bind their bodies.


    The nine-headed expert was completely bound.


    Even the black-robed fog was bound. Although its body appeared incorporeal, Goumang''s vines were extremely magical. They could even ensnare space, much less fog.


    "Quickly kill them." Qin Yun urged with a voice transmission.


    "Stop! I can let you leave!"


    The woman outside, along with the bound duo, shouted angrily in unison.


    "Let us leave? You sure talk big!" Goumang roared with laughter.


    "Kill!"


    A sharp glint flashed in Rushou''s eyes as he waved his hand, sending out a wisp of golden light. It quickly bore into the nine-headed expert''s body, producing grinding sounds. Although the nine-headed expert was good at close combat, his vitality and body toughness were far inferior to the giant''s. He was even weaker than Daoist Wen''s body which matched that of a Connate Numinous Treasure.


    Without any means to resist, his vitality was quickly wiped out, reducing him to a corpse.


    "Whoosh." The golden beam flew out of the nine-headed expert''s body and bored into the black-robed fog''s body. The Connate Metal Great Dao matched with a Connate Cardinal treasure had extremely potent destructive force. Even though the body was a massive divine sea, it instantly lost all its vitality. The black-robed fog''s body finally turned corporeal, revealing a greenish-black-skinned corpse.


    Robbed of their ability to put up a resistance, the two experts were easily slain by Rushou.


    "Dead? They were killed so quickly?" The silver-haired woman took the scene in. At their level, blows were exchanged extremely quickly. In a blink of an eye, both her companions were dead. It left her anxious and furious.


    "It''s all because of this sword array."


    The silver-haired woman knew the reason why.


    The sword array had precisely separated the three. Even their combined efforts failed to do anything to it.


    "I was wrong, very wrong. Among the three, the one that''s adept at domains is the strongest." Only then did the silver-haired woman come to a realization. Qin Yun, who kept the lowest profile, had bared his fangs, and the Misty Rain domain was like a massive cage to them.


    The one outside could not enter.


    The ones inside could not escape.


    Against the Misty Rain Array, there was only despair and helplessness!


    "Rushou, to be able to kill two experts from other universes so quickly, you have redeemed your reputation. If not, this battle would have depended entirely on Sword Immortal Qin and I," Goumang said with a voice transmission, chuckling.


    "Do you think you are much better than me? Has someone forgotten who was the one asking for help? Both of us relied on Sword Immortal Qin in this battle. If not for him, the both of us would be dead," Rushou replied with a voice transmission.


    "It''s you who would be dead, not me. I still have an avatar in the Three Realms," quipped Goumang.


    Rushou and Goumang were in a good mood. They had been good friends since the Chaos era, so they thought nothing of bickering.


    "Gentlemen, let''s think of a way to get rid of this woman," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission. "That woman is a lot stronger than the two we killed."


    "She is stronger."


    "Let''s join forces."


    Rushou and Goumang were pumped.


    Now that there was only one enemy left, they naturally felt more relaxed. After all, with Qin Yun around, they were practically unbeatable.


    "Whoosh." Rushou waved his hand as a wisp of golden light flew out once more towards the silver-haired woman. Simultaneously, he said via a voice transmission, "Attack her body. From the looks of it, her body is incomparable to the giant''s."


    "Yes, attack her body." Goumang also immediately released dozens of vines that streaked across the sky and enveloped the woman. Meanwhile, Goumang sent a voice transmission. "Sword Immortal Qin, according to the agreement, the corpses of the experts we kill will be yours. The treasures will be mine and Rushou''s. Quickly store away the corpses."


    "Alright." Qin Yun waved his hand as a wave blanketed the three corpses from before. These corpses could be sacrificed to the Three Realms since each corpse possessed power that the Three Realms required.


    When Qin Yun attempted to store away the corpses¡ª


    The nine-headed expert''s and the black-robed fog''s corpses vanished as expected, put away in Qin Yun''s storage. The giant''s corpse, however, had an invisible resistance.


    "He''s still not dead!" Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    The giant''s eyes opened as well. What seemed like a corpse had its aura rapidly rise. However, he still had vines bound around him, so even if he awoke, he still could not escape despite the struggling.


    "He died abruptly without anyone touching him. His death was too odd, so I didn''t dare lower my guard against him. I had bound him the entire time, and indeed, he was faking death." Goumang sneered.


    "To think we couldn''t see through his death faking. He sure is good at acting dead." Rushou scoffed as well as he stared at the bound giant.


    The giant ignored Rushou and Goumang. All he did was stare at Qin Yun and said with a deep voice, "I made a mistake. You are not the weakest among the three, but the strongest! Over all these years, your sword array is the strongest array formation I''ve seen among all the experts of other multiverses in this spatial tide."


    "I''m also rather impressed with your ability to act dead," said Qin Yun as well.


    "Puah! Puah! Puah!"


    Outside.


    A golden beam coruscated rapidly as it attempted to attack the silver-haired woman''s body again and again.


    Vines began extending over in a bid to close the gap.


    However, ten frosty halo discs circled the silver-haired woman, naturally cutting her off from space itself. The space she was in was completely protected, preventing anything from coming close to her no matter how strange the vines were or how ruthless Rushou''s blows were.


    With her body completely defended, the remaining eight frosty halo discs sliced at the vines. Despite fighting two alone, she continued having the upper hand. Unfortunately, she could do nothing since Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array was fending her off.


    She cast her gaze on Qin Yun.


    "You are very strong." The silver-haired woman and the bound giant spoke in unison. The content of their speech was identical, so was their tone.


    This left the trio alarmed.


    "So, I won''t kill you." The woman and the giant spoke simultaneously. "Instead, you will be captured alive, turning in a part of me. It''s worth it to awaken myself fully if it means capturing you alive."


    Immediately.


    Deep in the mountain, potent auras surged from various sectors¡ªall of them at the perfected Great Dao level.


    With whooshing sounds, figures flew out from deep within the mountain, filling the sky with thirty-two figures. Each figure emanated terrifying auras. They seemed to come from different races and used different cultivation systems. However, all their eyes looked the same. They were all staring at the trio.


    Qin Yun, Goumang, and Rushou paled.

 671 Escape

    "Escape!" Rushou and Goumang hurriedly said.


    They could not escape for they needed to rely on the Misty Rain Array.


    Qin Yun did not hesitate at all either. As he maintained the Misty Rain Array to protect their surroundings, he quickly escaped with Goumang and Rushou.


    The situation before them had exceeded their expectations. The enemy had produced thirty-two perfected Great Dao existences at once. Just this number stunned Qin Yun. Even the utmost confidence he had in the Misty Rain Array wavered¡­ Could his Misty Rain Array withstand the combined attacks of the thirty-two existences? The silver-haired woman''s means were extremely powerful. If she combined her efforts with another one or two moves of similar caliber¡­


    "Fellow Daoist Goumang, keep watch. As long as anyone dares approach the Misty Rain Array, I''ll pull them in," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission. "The three of us can join forces to kill the one pulled in."


    "Alright." Goumang nodded as well.


    While Qin Yun and company fled, the thirty-two figures spoke out at the same time. "Do you think you can escape?" They then attacked at the same time.


    Instantly, seven figures lunged towards the Misty Rain Array. The other fifteen figures cast out various long-range attacks from afar.


    "Pull one in." Rushou''s eyes flashed with a ruthless glimmer.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!" Goumang reserved 43 vines to bind the giant, while releasing dozens of vines out of the Misty Rain Array, which rippled slightly and allowed them passage. The vines circled a magma creature, but it extended its arms and grabbed two of the vines.


    The experts that came attacking were in all shapes and sizes. Some were in the form of mutated beasts, others spheroid, and the rest humanoid. In short, all of them were good at close combat. They cooperated and attacked together, instantly grabbing more than half of the vines Goumang had extended outwards.


    "Come on out!"


    "Come on out!"


    These experts roared furiously as they yanked the vines in a bid to pull Goumang out.


    Boom!


    The collective yanking of ten plus experts sent Goumang flying up despite his formidable strength. He immediately willed it such that the grabbed vines tore apart before he found his footing.


    "The seventeen perfected Great Dao experts are all good at close combat. I have no way of pulling one in." Goumang looked at Qin Yun and Rushou with a rueful smile. "I believe my strength is comparable to the Ancestral Dragon who''s at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, but I realize how huge the gap is when facing the combined forces of seventeen."


    "There''s just too many. How can there be that many?" Rushou turned flustered as well.


    In contrast, Qin Yun''s expression was solemn and stoic.


    "Boom!"


    Into the distance, fifteen experts were casting long-range attacks. Instantly, there was a bombardment of frosty halo discs, streaking stellar light, or stars that resembled beads¡­


    The seventeen experts who fought close up had a variety of styles. There was the common melee strike and others who increased in size, becoming even bigger than the Misty Rain Array. Then, they pounded the Misty Rain Array with both hands. There was a treant which grew countless leafy vines that wrapped around the Misty Rain Array and tightened its grip in a bid to burst open the Misty Rain Array.


    The joint attacks of various natures instantly caused the Misty Rain Array to quake vigorously. The waves that rose above the surface were ten feet tall as they constantly diverted the impact.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, can it hold?" Rushou immediately asked. He panicked when he saw the Misty Rain Array quaking so violently.


    "It can hold if it doesn''t drag out." Qin Yun nodded. "The silver-haired woman has the strongest attacks. The other thirty-one experts¡­ are rather formidable, but inferior to her. Thankfully, among the thirty-two experts, only the silver-haired woman can be barely considered being at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. The rest are just ordinary Perfected Great Dao."


    The silver-haired woman was indeed powerful.


    Her attacks trounced Goumang and Rushou while her defensive means were impressive as well.


    "The other thirty-one added together equal about two or three of her," said Qin Yun. "My Misty Rain Array drains me greatly every moment. By powering it with my Dharmic powers, I can only last about six hours. Together with my pills that replenish Dharmic powers, I''ll be able to last a day."


    At Qin Yun''s level, the amount of Dharmic powers he had was so massive that it was difficult to fully replenish his reserves.


    Even though he had made sufficient preparations¡­ all Qin Yun could do was last a day.


    "I have prepared some Immortal Pills as well," said Rushou. "There''s probably enough to last you two days."


    "The Immortal Pills I brought should be able to last you two days," said Goumang.


    "That makes it five," said Qin Yun. "As long as their attacks do not increase in strength, I''ll still be able to hold out for five days. After the five days, we''ll be doomed when all my Dharmic powers run out."


    And elsewhere.


    The mysterious existence was equally shocked. "It didn''t rupture? I paid the cost of damaging my soul to awaken all the avatars and control all of them at once to deal a combined strike; yet, the sword array hasn''t been cracked open? This sword array is too powerful. If I were to capture him and make him one of my avatars, this sword array would be mine as well."


    "When that happens, my defensive means will become stronger and my strength will increase greatly."


    "I, Fate, would then be able to prey upon even more experts in the spatial tides and grasp more powers."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun had long flown out of the mountain under the Misty Rain Array''s protection. They fled into the spatial tide at the fastest speed possible.


    The thirty-two experts pursued and constantly attacked.


    Across the massive spatial tide, a pursuit underwent.


    "Why escape? Become one of me and you will still live." The thirty-two figures persuaded while pursuing.


    "We killed two and captured one alive. Combined with the other thirty-two¡­ you actually have thirty-five perfected Great Dao avatars. Truly impressive," said Qin Yun.


    "They are all my envoys but they maintain their own senses." The voice sounded. "You can also join. When that happens, we will all be partners."


    "No thanks," continued Qin Yun. "You only sent the giant to deal with us in the beginning. It later failed, so you sent three envoys to deal with us. Only when two of them were killed did you deploy all your envoys. You''re either dumb by deliberately sending your envoys to their individual deaths, or it means that you pay a heavy price to control so many envoys at a time."


    "If it was simple, you would have sent thirty plus envoys at once the moment the giant failed," said Qin Yun as he fled. "How much longer can you last?"


    Qin Yun was speculating and also deliberately lying to his opponent.


    "Guess. How much longer can I last?" The thirty-two experts spoke out in unison. "How much longer can you last maintaining this array formation?"


    "Why don''t you guess too?" Qin Yun laughed.


    The pursuit continued.


    Qin Yun and company were out of solutions. All they could do was hold out.


    The mysterious existence coveted Qin Yun''s strength. An expert''s defensive strength was of utmost importance. One had to live first before offensive measures were taken into account! From his point of view, Qin Yun''s was of greater value than the silver-haired woman he had previously claimed.


    At the cost of heavy injuries and a damaged soul which would take long to recover, he continued the pursuit!


    "I have to capture him at all costs. He''s mine." The mysterious existence refused to give up.


    Two hours, four hours, six hours¡­


    The thirty-two experts continued the pursuit. In fact, at the perfected Great Dao level, they could easily spend a million years to achieve their goals.


    "How long will they continue to pursue us?" Rushou looked at the pursuers who constantly unleashed attacks at them and wondered secretly, feeling a little unconfident. He then looked at Qin Yun who was maintaining the Misty Rain Array. "Thankfully, I invited Sword Immortal Qin over."

 672 Back

    Rushou did feel a lingering fear. The enemy was simply too powerful. It was only thanks to Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array, which stood unparalleled in the Three Realms, that they managed to withstand the joint attacks of thirty-two perfected Great Dao experts and survive the ordeal.


    "How long will they continue this pursuit?" Goumang could not help but ask.


    "It will come down to how long either side can last." Qin Yun shot a glance at the experts who encircled the array.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you''re using a great deal of Dharmic powers, but with the might they are delivering, will they be able to maintain it constantly?" Rushou added. By the side, Goumang quipped, "It''s hard to tell what means the experts from other universes have, but what Sword Immortal Qin said was right. That mysterious existence that controls thirty-two envoys at the same time must be paying a huge price. The longer it takes, the greater the price."


    "Our pills can last five days," said Qin Yun. "If they are still pursuing on the last day, we shall fight it out!"


    "Okay." Goumang and Rushou nodded.


    They had many plans as well.


    If the enemy was too powerful, they would naturally chose to flee.


    If fleeing wasn''t possible, they would fight to the death! This involved tactics such as expanding the Misty Rain Array suddenly and enveloping a number of the melee combat enemies. They would then counterattack by divide and conquer! However, the enemy simply had too many on their side. It was possible that one of the three of them would perish. It was even possible that they would all end up wiped out. Unless cornered, they would not choose to fight to the death.


    ¡­


    Finally, after spending a day and two hours, the mysterious existence failed to hold out.


    "With the power supplied by the Eternal God King, all my avatars can maintain the assault without any worry about the energy drainage. But to maintain so many envoys is extremely burdensome on my soul. I have to burn my soul to barely continue. But the longer I persist, the weaker my soul. If this continues¡­ my soul might be in danger." The mysterious existence sighed secretly.


    Ordinary perfected Great Dao experts would have one main body. Even if they cultivated a handful of avatars, their avatars would be much weaker.


    On the other hand, this mysterious existence controlled the other experts'' bodies and was able to allow them to deliver their fullest power.


    It seemed heaven-defying, but every body controlled burdened the soul by another 100%. In fact, controlling three avatars was already the limit under normal circumstances. It would not deal any harm to the soul, and if one burned one''s soul at the risk of damaging the soul, one could control thirty plus avatars. However, the longer one burned their soul, the graver the damage to their soul.


    At a certain point, the soul would suffer the burden of all the avatars and crack. The only solution was to enter a long slumber.


    "I can''t last any longer."


    "This sword array''s power isn''t fated to be mine." The mysterious existence gave up. He had a feeling that even if he spared no expenses, the chances of his soul cracking within the next six hours were low, but another half a day would cause his soul to crack. When that happened, Qin Yun and company would counter attack!


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun and company were still escaping when they discovered the thirty-two experts had stopped attacking. Simultaneously, a gigantic phantom appeared.


    It was a silver-haired elder with sharp ears. He looked at Qin Yun as his voice resounded through the spatial tide and reached the trio''s ears. "I, Fate, never expected that having reigned supreme in the spatial tide all this while, I would fail at your hands. The expert who uses the sword array, might you tell me your name?"


    "You can''t consider it as a failure. You did not lose. All we did was flee." Qin Yun said. "As for my name, Fate, you can address me as¡­ Sword Immortal!"


    Qin Yun did not reveal his real name. It was a known fact that there were hexes among the magi that could attack a target simply from knowing them name. He had to be wary of the means available to experts from other universes.


    Fate was probably not a real name either.


    "Sword Immortal?" The mysterious existence muttered and smiled. "I''ll remember this name. Consider me the loser this time. I lost three envoys. Sword Immortal from a different universe¡­ if we meet again, I''ll definitely win. I will make you my envoy."


    "The next time we meet will be the moment of your death," said Qin Yun as well.


    The mysterious existence laughed and vanished.


    Hua!


    A mountain opened up as the thirty-two experts descended into the mountain before the mountain flew in another direction.


    "They are finally gone." Rushou heaved a sigh of relief.


    Goumang looked suspiciously at the flying mountain. "It seems they are not returning to their original spot?"


    "With their strength completely exposed, why would they dare return to their original spot?" Qin Yun said. "If they dare return, I''ll definitely invite Hou Yi and company here and slay this expert from another universe. He actually managed to enslave so many experts. His means are rather sinister. However, he also has many treasures. Many of those envoys had powerful weapons. I estimate about six Connate Cardinal treasures. It would be enough to invite Hou Yi and other experts of similar strength."


    "Yes, if Hou Yi were to come, he will definitely be killed." Rushou and Goumang agreed.


    Hou Yi''s arrow, even a normal one, was already at the apex of the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. If he fought for his life¡­ his offensive means matched that of the Heavenly Dao realm!


    Who wasn''t afraid of Hou Yi''s arrows in the Three Realms?


    Even Qin Yun, who was a half-step Heavenly Dao realm existence, lacked the confidence to withstand Hou Yi''s arrow with his Misty Rain Array.


    Although he withstood the thirty-two experts, all of them added up was about three or four times the silver-haired woman''s strength. Qin Yun felt that he was still far from the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "With your sword array''s protection and Hou Yi''s arrow to kill, it would truly be invincible," marveled Goumang in agreement.


    "If Hou Yi were to come, he would be here in person. He would be risking his life, so it wouldn''t be easy inviting him here." Rushou smiled as he looked at Qin Yun. "I was able to invite Sword Immortal Qin here because of the threat of his Itinerant Immortal tribulations. His need for great merit prompted him to risk his life with me. To convince Hou Yi to risk coming here¡­ it will probably be much harder."


    "If we inform him of Fate, he will definitely come where there are so many treasures," said Goumang. "Unfortunately, it seems Fate has escaped elsewhere." It was an unknown when they would bump into each other in the vast spatial tides.


    "Fate? He sure is arrogant to dare use this as a name," muttered Qin Yun. "However, he is indeed very strong."


    "Very! Based on the information we have about the experts from other universes, he would be one of the best," said Goumang.


    "The one I chose ended up being so strong. My luck¡­" Rushou shook his head helplessly, "It can be said that I fulfilled my wish. I obtained treasures and wouldn''t easily come here again. However, I wouldn''t mind if Sword Immortal Qin joins."


    "Whether I need to come to the spatial tide again will depend on how much merit sacrificing these three corpses will gain me." Qin Yun looked at the bound giant''s corpse. "This giant has no signs of life again. I''m guessing that he''s really dead this time." With that said, the giant was stored away without any resistance.


    "He''s really dead." Qin Yun laughed. "Let''s go, time to head back."


    "Back to the Three Realms." Rushou and Goumang smiled.


    Qin Yun had obtained the corpses of three experts while the other two had split the weapons and treasures.


    ¡­


    "I completely exposed myself this time."


    In the spatial tide, the thirty-two experts entered a slumber. A mysterious elder sat on a throne in a palace within the mountain.


    The mountain had also transformed into an island.


    "To fully expose oneself in the spatial tide would mean death isn''t far. The sword immortal might bring an expert that is perfect at dealing with me the next time." The elder naturally made a decision. "I''ll change spots and switch my identity."


    Those that could prey on others in the spatial tide were extremely careful.


    After all, they would be long dead if they weren''t.


    "Sword immortal? I''ll remember you." The elder''s figure dissipated as the island continued flying in the spatial tide.


    ******


    Time flew by.


    It took them the same 68 years to return.


    When Qin Yun and company saw the familiar Chaos spatial rift, they felt as if they were returning to their hometown. The rift effused the Chaos aura from the other end. When they passed through the spatial rift, they arrived in the Chaos beyond the Three Realms.


    Upon arriving, Qin Yun sensed the Three Realms.


    "We are back." Qin Yun heaved a sigh of relief.


    Meanwhile in Green Touring Palace.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, who sat cross-legged on a bed of clouds, opened his eyes and looked into the distance where the Chaos spatial rift was. He smiled. "This disciple of mine is finally back."

 673 The Present Qin Family

    Although Qin Yun and company entered the Chaos spatial rift seemingly silently, nearly all the pinnacle existences in the Three Realms knew of it. At that level, they could faintly sense which other experts were alive! Qin Yun''s and Rushou''s disappearance naturally incurred the notice of all the experts.


    The truth was quickly made known after some probing of the sudden disappearance.


    For instance, the Fiend Ancestor long sensed that Qin Yun and company had vanished into the Chaos spatial rift and he had guessed that they were headed for the spatial tide.


    In the entire Three Realms¡­


    Many existences were paying notice to their final fate.


    "The three of them are back." Seated cross-legged in a desolate mountaintop was Fiend King Boxun as he looked far beyond the Three Realms. "To be in the spatial tide for a hundred plus years and return alive. Impressive.


    "Might I need to venture into the Chaos spatial rift and challenge myself in the spatial tide to reach the Heavenly Dao realm?


    "Back then, the Three Pure Ones and Gautama all visited it.


    "Compared to them, am I being overly careful?"


    Boxun was in a dilemma.


    As a King of Myriad Fiends, he was extremely selfish. He strived to not place himself into a perilous situation! Therefore, he had yet to enter the spatial tide to this very day.


    In the history of the Three Realms, the ones who entered the spatial tide the most were the Three Pure Ones! Back then, they jointly traveled the spatial tide and slew the most number of experts from other universes.


    However, people like Goddess N¨¹wa and Fiend Ancestor did not enter; yet, they still achieved the Heavenly Dao realm! Therefore, all the perfected Great Dao existences in the Three Realms believed¡­ that one still had the same chances of reaching the Heavenly Dao realm without heading to the Chaos spatial rift. Furthermore, the intelligence spread through the Three Realms about the spatial tide shocked them.


    For instance, Rushou only dared to make the trip after inviting Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Spirit-Tower Heart Mountain.


    Its exact location was still a mystery in the Three Realms.


    In it lived an extremely mysterious, ancient existence in the Three Realms, Patriarch Bodhi.


    "Rushou and company are back." Patriarch Bodhi opened his eyes as the aromas lingered around him. His eyes had a hint of hesitation. "My cultivation of the Dao of Space-time has met with difficulties. Perhaps, widening my horizons by seeing the experts of other universes us their space-time means will be helpful to me."


    The Dao of Space-time was a very special Dao. As the ancient saying goes, the surrounding space is called Yu; the time from past to future is called Zhou. Therefore, the Great Dao of Space-time was also the Universe Great Dao.


    Patriarch Bodhi believed that if he attained full enlightenment in the Great Dao of Space-time, he would be able to attain the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "However, to face the experts from other universes in the spatial tide alone is far from sufficient." Patriarch Bodhi hesitated and shook his head gently. "There''s no rush. I haven''t even fully understood the Dao of Time in the Great Dao of Space-time. I can sense that with time, my insights would deepen."


    Living long aided his study of the Dao of Time.


    "It won''t be too late to pay the spatial tide a visit when I''m at a bottleneck." Patriarch Bodhi made up his mind.


    ¡­


    The safe return of Qin Yun and company did cause a stir among many perfected Great Dao existences. In the past, they hesitated, but upon seeing existences at the same level succeed, they felt intrigued. However, at their level, they were all very staid. They would only proceed after carefully planning, never due to an impulse.


    "It still feels safer when we are back in the Three Realms." Rushou laughed.


    Goumang nodded with a smile. "Sword Immortal Qin, Rushou, let us part ways here. I already have old friends waiting for me at my residence. They are probably waiting to inquire about the spatial tide. Should this matter be kept secret?"


    Rushou looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "There''s no need. Back when the Three Pure Ones ventured into the spatial tide, the information was later released to the younger generation. There is no need for us to conceal the information."


    "Alright, I''ll let them know that experts from the spatial tide aren''t that easy to deal with," said Goumang.


    "They might look inspired by our safe return, but they are all the overlord of Great Worlds. They live carefree lives, so ultimately, few would actually wish to enter," said Rushou.


    "Let us part ways here," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Allow me to wish that you attain a Merit Cardinal treasure first, Sword Immortal Qin." Goumang and Rushou added.


    "I''ll be counting on your blessings."


    Immediately, Qin Yun and company parted ways in the vast Chaos. They traversed the void as Rushou and Goumang returned to their own cave abodes. As for Qin Yun, he headed for Mt. Lightning Roar in the Heavenly realm.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Yi Xiao had been concerned over Qin Yun all these years.


    After he entered the spatial tide, he could not be sensed. No one in the Three Realms would know if he perished in the spatial tide as well.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao sat cross-legged at the top of Mt. Lightning Roar as she watched the sea of clouds churn. Then she closed her eyes to cultivate in her Lightning Dharma.


    In the days Qin Yun was away, all she could do was cultivate in the Lightning Dharma to occupy herself, so as to prevent her thoughts from swaying.


    Swoosh.


    A figure silently appeared at the mountaintop and stood beside Yi Xiao. He was none other than the azure-robed Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun could not help but smile when he looked at his cultivating wife.


    "Oh?" Yi Xiao opened her eyes, having sensed him. She saw her husband standing beside her.


    "Brother Yun?" Yi Xiao was taken back as she lowered her head to massage her forehead before looking back up. She wasn''t seeing things. Qin Yun was right in front of her.


    "You aren''t seeing things. I''m back," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "There hasn''t been any news of you for more than a hundred years. Why didn''t you send me a voice transmission when you returned?" Yi Xiao stood up and could not help but grumble. However, she still held Qin Yun''s hand.


    "It''s my fault. Please forgive me, my dear wife." Qin Yun immediately apologized.


    Yi Xiao giggled.


    "Let''s go and visit the kids. They have been worried for you all these years as well," said Yi Xiao.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun nodded.


    ¡­


    Mt. Lightning Roar had become a busier place. Over time, the Qin family had been expanding. After Qin Yiyi and Han Lin had a daughter, Qin Yuluo, they had another son, Qin Yule. Qin Yule''s cultivation talent was very average. With the Qin family''s resources, and with his parents, he was born at the first firmament Essence Soul realm. Now, he was only at the third firmament Essence Soul realm. However, he enjoyed traveling and making ties everywhere. Many factions knew that he was a grandson of Sword Immortal Qin, so they would send beauties to his side. This resulted in the Qin family having more offspring, many who cultivated in Mt. Lightning Roar.


    And today, Qin Yun''s return prompted a banquet to be held in Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun was somewhat surprised as well.


    "When I left the Three Realms, Yule was still a child. In a blink of an eye, he has three sons and five daughters?" Qin Yule was somewhat surprised by the juniors who kowtowed him at the banquet.


    "I find Yule quite capable. At the very least, he has made Mt. Lightning Roar less cold and cheerless. It''s a lot more lively these days." Yi Xiao laughed.


    Qin Yule was standing obediently by the side.


    Outside, he was a scion that let himself loose, living in an unbridled manner. But in front of his grandfather, he reined himself in. After all, he had little interaction with his grandfather and had only heard of his legends.


    Instead, it was his elder sister, Qin Yuluo, who had close ties with Qin Yun. This was because Qin Yun had once advised Yuluo''s cultivation for an extended period of time. They shared a much closer relationship.


    "Yule." Qin Yule looked at Qin Yule and his fine features which resembled Yi Xiao''s. He was truly an adonis and was a lot more handsome than Qin Yun.


    "Grandfather." Qin Yule was somewhat nervous.


    "You are now at the third firmament Essence Soul realm? Cultivate well. Try to reach the Skyimmortal realm at least," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes." Qin Yule replied reverently.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    It was difficult for immortal cultivators to have children. Qin Yun and his wife only had a daughter, Qin Yiyi. Qin Yiyi previously only had a daughter, Qin Yuluo. Only after so many years did she have an additional Qin Yule. It was Qin Yule who had numerous children. This was still something that delighted Qin Yun.


    His other child, Meng Huan, had many children. However, Meng Huan had ascended after three hundred years of cultivation in his homeworld! His children and grandchildren had long died of age. By the time Meng Huan had the strength to return to his homeworld, he was generations separated from them. His feelings for them were naturally a lot more indifferent. Only extremely excellent juniors had a chance of being brought to Mt. Lightning Roar for cultivation.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s mood was extremely good due to the Qin family''s banquet.


    The next day.


    In the back mountain of the Qin household.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood there.


    "My venture into the spatial tide gained me a total of three bodies," Qin Yun said. "The three of them were perfected Great Dao existences in life. I wonder how much merit I would receive if I sacrifice them to the Three Realms."


    "How many perfected Great Dao existences are there in the Three Realms? To sacrifice three corpses would definitely result in immense merit," said Yi Xiao.


    "Hmm."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    The nine-headed expert''s corpse appeared. His nine gnarly dragon heads and his massive body did not seem so huge when thrown onto an empty spot. It was only a hundred feet tall, but it still emitted a terrifying aura in death. The baneful aura it emanated alarmed Yi Xiao.


    The terrifying aura, if seen by ordinary Skyimmortals and Skyfiends, would result in an intrusion by the baneful aura, causing their Essence Souls to collapse followed by death.


    However, Yi Xiao stood beside Qin Yun and with his help, the baneful aura failed to make any progress. The fact that the corpse contained the charms of a Great Dao left Yi Xiao shuddering.


    "How powerful is such an expert?" Yi Xiao mumbled silently.


    "Obliterate."


    Qin Yun waved his hand.


    His Intrinsic Flying Sword immediately split into numerous beams of light as they flew towards the nine-headed corpse.In Chinese it''s Yu Zhou.

 674 Bloodline?

    When the sharp sword beams accompanied by killing intent bore into the nine-headed expert''s corpse, they began a complete decimation of his body.


    "Whoosh."


    The corpse disintegrated and dispersed, and everything returned to the land.


    Immediately, large amounts of merit descended. The richness of the merit made it come down like layer of golden light that enveloped Qin Yun. Yi Xiao watched by the side in anticipation. While Qin Yun received the merit, he did not hesitate to transfer everything to the Misty Rain Sword.


    "We are all beings of the Three Realms," said Qin Yun. "The Three Realms nurtured us to the point of us draining its own Heaven and Earth spiritual energies to fuel our cultivation. Right down to the food we eat, everything stems from the Three Realms. After death, our strength returns to the Three Realms. As for these experts from another universe, they are not of this world. After their bodies disintegrate, they are absorbed by the Three Realms. It''s something that adds to the Three Realms which results in the bestowment of merit.


    "Ever since Gonggong smashed into Mt. Buzhou, the foundation of the Three Realms has been severely damaged. If its foundation was still perfect, it probably wouldn''t care too much about this sacrifice," Qin Yun said as he discovered that the bestowing of merit had already stopped.


    As the disintegration happened in a blink of an eye, the merit bestowment happened extremely quickly.


    "This is a perfected Great Dao expert from a different universe. How much merit was bestowed?" pressed Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun transferred all the merit he received into the Misty Rain Sword and frowned. "It''s equivalent to killing one or two Ancestral Fiends."


    It was lower than expected.


    "That little?" Yi Xiao could not help but say. "This is an expert at the perfected Great Dao realm."


    "Killing a perfected Great Dao expert of the Three Realms wouldn''t give merit, and instead, it would be a sin." Qin Yun said thoughtfully. "The Three Realms is constantly absorbing the Chaos powers of other universes; therefore, it does not care much for typical sacrifices. It probably requires a special energy signature to those lives for its benefit. I heard that capturing an enemy and bringing it to the Three Realms alive before killing it will result in more merit. Perhaps it''s the sacrifice of the Essence Soul that is more beneficial.


    "Sacrificing a corpse alone ultimately gives partial benefits." Qin Yun was without solution.


    Back in his battle with the mysterious Fate, even if he captured one of its puppets alive, a mere thought of Fate allowed him to abandon the envoys, turning them to corpses immediately.


    "Try the next one," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "Okay."


    Qin Yun waved his hand and another corpse appeared on the ground.


    The black-robed humanoid fog''s corpse now revealed its true appearance. It had greenish-black skin. Looking at its corpse felt like seeing a faint but massive projection of a divine sea.


    "Go."


    Qin Yun released his Misty Rain Sword''s sword beams and began disintegrating the corpse.


    Another corpse was decimated.


    Upon seeing this scene, Qin Yun suddenly sighed.


    He also knew that the three corpses he received were probably long dead. Even if they weren''t dead, they were living lives akin to a puppet''s.


    When the corpse disintegrated and returned to the Three Realms, merit descended.


    Soon.


    When the merit stopped descending, Qin Yun frowned slightly. This was because the black-robed fog''s corpse gave slightly less merit.


    "What happened?" pressed Yi Xiao.


    As Qin Yun transferred the merit to the Misty Rain Sword, he said, "It''s about the same as before; however, the last corpse is a little special. His body was extremely powerful and had potent vitality."


    With that said, he waved his hand.


    Boom!


    The giant''s corpse was the largest. Thankfully, there was an array formation set up in Mt. Lightning Roar. Even space was distorted to allow the giant''s corpse to be put down.


    "This corpse sure is huge." Yi Xiao looked at the mountainous giant''s body in shock. She was like a speck in front of the corpse.


    "The strength of his body is above Daoist Wen''s." Qin Yun laughed. "Goumang, Rushou, and I joined forces but failed to kill him even after we trapped him. Of course¡­ he is now already dead. It will be much easier destroying his body."


    While alive, the power of the Essence Soul controlled the body, making the body''s defenses stronger.


    Once the Essence Soul was gone, the body weakened greatly.


    "The merit received from sacrificing this body should be a lot more." Qin Yun''s mind stirred as he released the sword beams. They entered the giant''s body through his nose and began causing damage within.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Every spot of the giant was extremely resilient. The Misty Rain Sword beams actually failed to slice through them.


    "The body has weakened in death, but to destroy it, I''ll still need to use my Intrinsic Flying Sword." Qin Yun released his Misty Rain Sword wistfully. It directly sliced through the giant''s skin and bore into his body to begin the damage.


    However, the speed of the destruction was relatively slow.


    "The corpse is too big and the vitality it contains is too potent," Qin Yun said with a laugh. "It will probably take ten minutes to completely destroy it."


    "With your strength, you still need to spend ten minutes on a dead corpse?" Yi Xiao marveled.


    "It''s very powerful. Its vitality is no way inferior to Wood God Goumang''s. The potency of his body matches nearly that of a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure. There''s only a chance of destroying it after its death." Qin Yun laughed. "He was the first one to fight us. To first use a body that is nearly unkillable, the intended strategy was probably to probe our strength."


    Qin Yun somewhat understood the mysterious Fate.


    By sending an unkillable envoy¡­


    He could figure out the visitor''s background and strength.


    If the enemy was too powerful? He could flee quickly!


    If he was confident, he would select three envoys that had an advantage over the enemy so as to kill them.


    However, there was clearly a misjudgment of Qin Yun''s strength while fighting them; therefore, he suffered a setback.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed as he looked at the corpse in front of him. Somewhere in the veins of the giant''s corpse, Qin Yun caused a wisp of golden light seep out through his Misty Rain Sword. The wisp of golden light appeared lofty, like it was a power from a higher existence.


    "What happened?" Yi Xiao inquired.


    "Inside his body is a very special power," muttered Qin Yun. "While I was destroying his corpse, this special power remained entrenched deep in the corpse''s bloodline. It is still able to resist my destruction out of sheer instinct."


    "Special power?" Yi Xiao was puzzled.


    "I''ll first extract this special power." Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword enveloped the power within the giant''s corpse and every bit extracted was transported out with sword flashes.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Sword flashes carried the special power and flew out of the corpse.


    They were wisps of distorted golden threads.


    As the golden threads were extracted, the corpse weakened. The damage delivered became faster. The original estimate of ten minutes was reduced to seconds after the ten wisps of golden thread was extracted. The corpse was disintegrated and returned to the land as large amounts of merit descended.


    "What power is this?" Qin Yun carefully looked at the ten distorted golden threads.


    The merit the Three Realms bestowed finally came to a stop.


    "Sacrifice."


    Qin Yun attempted destroying the powers of a wisp of the golden thread. It was filled with endless vitality, but without any body to bond to, it was destroyed by the Misty Rain Sword. The Three Realms also delivered some merit which was quite sizable.


    "Brother Yun, how''s the merit situation now?" Yi Xiao pressed.


    "95%. It''s still quite far from a Merit Cardinal treasure," said Qin Yun. "If I sacrifice the remaining nine wisps, it should be able to reach 97%."


    Yi Xiao was astonished. "This mysterious power can be sacrificed for that much merit?"


    "Hmm."


    Qin Yun carefully observed the golden threads. Under his scrutiny, the golden threads were enlarged thousands of times. They turned into a massive golden mystic chart which faintly outlined a massive giant. Despite seeing this figure from afar, Qin Yun sensed a form of repression. It was a feeling poles apart from facing his master or Goddess N¨¹wa.


    The massive giant was likely at the Heavenly Dao realm, but its body was ridiculously powerful.


    The golden mystic chart was naturally contained by the bloodline. It was unparalleled in terms of its profundity.


    Qin Yun said softly, "If I''m not wrong, this is the power of a bloodline.


    "That giant should be a blood descendant of a powerful existence.


    "For his body to be this powerful, it has to do with his cultivation, but also his bloodline." Qin Yun observed carefully.

 675 Pangu Bloodline

    Qin Yun stored away the other eight wisps of golden threads within a jade bottle, leaving only one wisp floating in front of him. He carefully observed it. The Heavenly Dao realm involved understanding the charms of the Heavenly Dao, Myriad Objects, and their interactions. Since Qin Yun had grasped three Great Dao of the Heavenly Dao, he was also able to understand something of the other Great Dao.


    Although the natural mystical patterns contained within the golden thread powers were extremely profound, Qin Yun was still able to understand parts of it. For instance, there were the charms of the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man within.


    "Really fascinating¡­


    "With such a bloodline, the originator of this bloodline must have had a terrifyingly powerful body. It must be someone who cultivated his body at the Heavenly Dao realm." Qin Yun was astonished. In the Three Realms, the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Fiend Ancestor, including Goddess N¨¹wa, were not Heavenly Dao realms through the cultivation of their bodies.


    The Physical Establishing Sage lineage was famous for being difficult to cultivate.


    Even Qin Yun was impressed by the person of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage who reached the Heavenly Dao realm¡­


    "That giant might have left his homeworld to venture into the spatial tide and ended up falling into the hands of the mysterious Fate," thought Qin Yun. It was useless even if they had a strong backer. Heavenly Dao existences were unable to enter the spatial tide, so any talk of revenge was moot.


    "This bloodline clearly comes from another universe," thought Qin Yun. "However, the mystical patterns still contain all kinds of Great Dao."


    "Clearly, the Great Dao¡­ exists in the Chaos and in other universe."


    There might be some differences in some lesser Daos.


    For instance, there were some unique laws that appeared in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Some of the extremely sinful figures would even become the most cherished of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. However, under the Three Realms'' laws, they would end up being suppressed.


    And these unique laws of the Three Realms such as merit and sin, were useless in the Chaos.


    As for Great Dao¡­


    They existed in the Chaos to begin with. For instance, the Connate Cardinal treasures born out of the Chaos would contain a perfected Great Dao. The Great Dao that appeared in the Chaos was not usable in the Three Realms, but it was also usable in the Chaos and spatial tide. It was even usable in other universes. The only difference was that the cultivation systems of other universes might be different.


    The Three Realms also had many cultivation systems. For instance, Daoism, Buddhism, Fiendish, Magi, etc. The sword immortal lineage, the talisman amulet lineage, and the rest all had their specialties.


    It was very common for other universes to create their own cultivation systems.


    But ultimately, the Great Dao were all interlinked.


    "Stone from another mountain can still damage jade." The more Qin Yun looked at the mystical patterns, the more he felt that he had found a treasure trove. The construction of the mystic patterns were nothing Qin Yun had ever seen before.


    "I won''t be able to figure out much in a short period of time. I''ll still need lots of time." Qin Yun took out a jade bottle and stored away the wisp.


    At that moment, Yi Xiao asked with a smile, "Brother Yun, you were observing the bloodline powers for quite a while. Does it aid your cultivation?"


    "Greatly." Qin Yun nodded. "I just need to think about it carefully."


    "Okay."


    Yi Xiao could not help but say, "Brother Yun, the merit you received still isn''t enough for you to attain a Merit Cardinal treasure. What do you plan to do next?"


    He had accumulated 95% to date. Even if he sacrificed the bloodline powers, it would only reach 97%.


    It didn''t seem a lot, but that tiny bit¡­ probably involved killing two to three perfected Great Dao experts from other universes.


    "There''s no other choice. I''ll have to make another trip into the spatial tide," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao revealed a look of worry.


    "But it won''t be now," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Don''t worry. There''s not much merit I''m lacking now. I just need to make one more trip to the spatial tide! I plan on studying this bloodline carefully first and figure out its charms so as to enhance my Sword Dao. The stronger I am, the more confident I will be when heading into the spatial tide again.


    "I have a feeling¡­" Qin Yun looked at the jade bottle in his hand. "This bloodline power will be useful to my Misty Rain Array."


    "When do you plan on going?" pressed Yi Xiao.


    "In the final thousand years," said Qin Yun. He planned on cultivating for two thousand years, and the last thousand years was likely enough. Following that, he added, "Xiaoxiao, this bloodline power is extraordinary. I''ll have to pay my master a visit."


    Yi Xiao nodded as well as she watched Qin Yun tear through the sky.


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace, main hall.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor sat cross-legged as he watched his disciple enter.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed reverently. "I have something to offer you."


    "Oh?" Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was astonished as he smiled. "It looks like you scored quite a bit on your trip to the spatial tide."


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded and did not elaborate. He flipped his hand and took out a jade bottle. As the jade bottle flew to Numinous Treasure, he said, "Master, please take a look."


    Numinous Treasure thought nothing of it either. He was knowledgeable and had headed to the spatial tide several times with the rest of the Three Pure Ones years ago. He had slain many experts from other universes. It was only after he reached the Heavenly Dao realm that he stopped going into the spatial tide again.


    "Whoosh." A golden thread flew out of the jade bottle.


    Numinous Treasure looked over nonchalantly before his expression changed.


    "This is¡­" Numinous Treasure looked carefully as his expression turned solemn.


    "The bloodline power of a Heavenly Dao expert of the physical lineage," Numinous Treasure muttered as his eyes lit up. He wore a look of delight as he immediately asked Qin Yun, "How did you get it? Tell me in detail."


    Qin Yun said reverently, "Master, on our trip to the spatial tide, we dealt with a giant who used a hammer on a floating mountain."


    "It''s him?" Numinous Treasure nodded slightly. The Three Realms had some intelligence about the spatial tide and understood the experts that entrenched themselves within. Although they had some intelligence, the experts of the Three Realms knew very well that these experts who dared made an ostentatious display of their entrenchment definitely had something backing them.


    Therefore, most of the intelligence was superficial. No one dared to believed it fully.


    For example, Qin Yun''s encounter showed a great difference between the intelligence and reality.


    "Together with Rushou and Goumang, we discovered the true master of the floating mountain. It''s an expert from a different universe who calls himself Fate," said Qin Yun. "Fate controls the bodies of 35 perfected Great Dao experts and had sent all of them to attack us. The giant who used the hammer is only one of the 35."


    "He controls that many perfected Great Dao experts?" Numinous Treasure was somewhat astonished. "Perhaps he enslaved many of the Great Dao experts in his homeworld before going to the spatial tide. To capture thirty plus in the spatial tide is very unlikely."


    "A number of them must have been from his homeworld." Qin Yun nodded in agreement. "These 35 who were under his control were all of ordinary perfected Great Dao strength except for one being at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Apart from a few having unique attacks, the rest were relatively mediocre. In the Three Realms, they would be among the weakest perfected Great Dao experts. Therefore, I was able to defend against their collective assault with the Misty Rain Realm. After killing three, we were lucky to flee successfully."


    Numinous Treasure nodded and said, "This bloodline power stems from one of the three?"


    "Yes, the giant who uses the hammer," Qin Yun said. "When I sacrificed the giant''s body to the Three Realms, destroying his body was rather difficult. However, I discovered wisps of this bloodline power hidden within his body."


    Numinous Treasure was enlightened. "I see.


    "Disciple, your luck is good indeed. You actually managed to discover the bloodline powers of a Heavenly Dao realm expert in the spatial tide." Numinous Treasure smiled at Qin Yun. "I had ten plus encounters with enemies back in the spatial tide, but never had such a harvest."


    "It was all luck," Qin Yun said. Indeed, he was lucky. He did not discover anything special from the other two corpses.


    "To be from the Physical Establishing Sage lineage while reaching the Heavenly Dao realm. That''s indeed difficult," said Numinous Treasure. "What we know is that only Pangu reached this realm. However, Pangu did not have children. He was born out of a Chaos Azure Lotus and at his birth, he split open the Three Realms. He gave up his life to do so.


    "We have also been searching for the remnant bloodline power of his," Numinous Treasure said with a laugh. "Every faction has also studied and cultivated in it. For instance, Dharmic formulations like the Eight-Nine Arcane Art or the Twelve Capital Heavens were all figured out from the bloodline powers left behind by Pangu."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    Now, you have discovered the bloodline powers of a Heavenly Dao realm expert of the physical lineage. Comparing it with the Pangu bloodline powers will be of great help to me," Numinous Treasure said. "The other Heavenly Dao realm experts and I are also pondering over physical cultivation. After all, we would be traveling the Chaos in the future. Physical Dharmic formulations would be rather important."


    Qin Yun nodded. However, he was an Itinerant Immortal and had an Essence Soul for his body. Therefore, he was not suited to cultivate his body.


    However, he could still study the charms within to fuse into his sword array.


    "Since you have given this to me, this Pangu bloodline power is yours." Numinous Treasure smiled and threw a black bottle to Qin Yun.


    "Okay." Qin Yun did not reject it as he respectfully received it.


    Numinous Treasure exhorted, "Remember, the Pangu''s bloodline power is more about immense strength! As for the bloodline power you brought back, it''s more about defense. The two take different directions, so when it comes to your Misty Rain Array, the Pangu bloodline powers might aid your offensive means. As for the study of the bloodline powers of the other-universe expert, it might be helpful to the defensive means of your Misty Rain Array."


    Qin Yun immediately said, "I''ve seen it and also noticed that it would be helpful to my Misty Rain Array."


    "Now, the most pressing issue for you is to transcend the tribulations. Therefore, studying the bloodline powers of the other-universe expert is of utmost priority! After you transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, you can study the Pangu bloodline powers. As a sword immortal¡­ your offensive means needs to be strengthened," said Numinous Treasure.


    "I understand, Master," replied Qin Yun.


    "You may leave." Numinous Treasure nodded. After Qin Yun left, he took out the golden thread and began carefully studying it.

 676 Transaction

    As Qin Yun obtained the ten wisps of bloodline powers, in the distant Dragon Great World, a massive divine dragon was asleep. He was none other than the Dragon race''s ancestor, the Ancestral Dragon.


    Among the perfected Great Dao existences in the Three Realms, the three strongest existences recognized were the Buddhist Amita, Hou Yi, and Ancestral Dragon!


    They were almost equal¡­


    Hou Yi had terrifyingly potent offensive means.


    The Ancestral Dragon cultivated his body to the half-step Heavenly Dao realm!


    Amita was the lord of the Western Paradise. He had various great divine powers. For instance, he was the fastest under the Heavenly Dao realm.


    As for God King Zhurong, who later regained freedom, he had only reigned supreme early in the Three Realms. Furthermore, he suffered a heavy setback as a result of Hou Yi the moment he returned. Therefore, in the hearts of the Three Realms experts, Zhurong''s strength was naturally weaker than Hou Yi''s, thus, weaker than the Ancestral Dragon and Amita.


    Qin Yun was a perfected Great Dao sword immortal and he had an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand. He was also recognized as being at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. However, he had cultivated for too short a time. He was also only ranked at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm when he used his Intrinsic Flying Sword. Furthermore, he was good at defense, but much weaker at offensive means. To the Three Realms experts¡­ he was slightly weaker than Hou Yi, Ancestral Dragon, and Amita.


    "Oh?" Ancestral Dragon opened his golden eyes that looked far away at the Heavenly realm.


    "I can sense from the heavenly secrets that my Great Dao opportunity lies in that direction." The Ancestral Dragon''s strength was unfathomable. Furthermore, the thing he sensed was related to him; therefore, he was able to detect that sliver of opportunity.


    "Whoosh."


    Ancestral Dragon transformed into a black-robed man and with one step, he arrived in the Heavenly realm.


    Midair of the Heavenly realm.


    The black-robed man continued following his senses as he constantly proceeded forward.


    Moments later.


    "Oh?"


    The black-robed man stood on a cloud as he looked at a lofty mountain in front of him. He frowned. "Mt. Lightning Roar. That''s Sword Immortal Qin''s Mt. Lightning Roar? Why would my opportunity be here? I heard that Sword Immortal Qin recently returned from the spatial tide. Could it be that he has obtained something from there, something that is my Great Dao opportunity?


    "However, I can sense that he isn''t here in person. The only thing that''s left here is his avatar."


    The black-robed man suddenly turned his head.


    A beam of light descended upon Mt. Lightning Roar. It was none other than Qin Yun who had just returned from Green Touring Palace.


    "Daoist Qin." The black-robed man immediately spoke out with a smile.


    oon.


    The clouds at the top of Mt. Lightning Roar split apart as Qin Yun walked out in astonishment.


    "How rare is it for the Ancestral Dragon to come to my Mt. Lightning Roar," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Come, please come to my place and have some refreshments."


    The black-robed man nodded with a smile. "Then, I''ll be imposing on you."


    The duo entered and sat across each other in a garden in Qin Manor. Yi Xiao personally came to offer the alcohol. She looked at the black-robed man with glimmering eyes, for she knew that he was the ancestor of all dragons in the Three Realms, the Ancestral Dragon. And she was a dragon as well. To see the Ancestral Dragon was quite a thrill.


    The black-robed man smiled at Yi Xiao who left after serving the drinks.


    "Daoist Qin, your wife is also a dragon. Now, three juniors of the Qin family have a dragon bloodline. It seems you are really fated with my Dragon race." The black-robed man laughed. If the Qin family juniors cultivated in Daoist Dharmic formulations, allowing their human bloodlines to take the upper hand, they would not turn into dragons. The contrary was their turning into dragons.


    The Qin family did have a few whom had turned into dragons.


    "We are indeed very fated." Qin Yun held up his cup. "Come, have a taste of this. Perhaps it''s incomparable to your Dragon race''s collections, but it''s also some of the finest alcohol I''ve collected when traveling the Three Realms."


    "Alright."


    The black-robed raised his cup and took a sip. His eyes lit up. "It is indeed very unique."


    Qin Yun smiled. "I don''t have many hobbies, but I enjoy fine food and drink. By the way, might I know why you are here today?"


    "I came here to ask a favor of you, Daoist Qin," said the black-robed man directly.


    "Please, speak your mind," said Qin Yun.


    He was very respectful towards the Ancestral Dragon.


    Furthermore, the Ancestral Dragon had cultivated his body to the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. He had astonishing combat strength and once the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, Fiend Ancestor, and company were forced to leave the Three Realms, the Ancestral Dragon would be invincible! When that happened, the dragons would likely prosper. After all, only the Daoist Three Pure Ones could suppress him at the moment, so there was a limitation to the assertiveness of the dragons.


    Without the Heavenly Dao realm, the dragons would be a lot more assertive.


    Furthermore, Qin Yun also knew that if he really failed to transcend the tribulations in the future, he had to ensure a backup plan for his family. He had offended the fiends terribly, and few experts could protect the Qin family. The Ancestral Dragon was one of those few.


    "I can sense that you have a treasure on you. It is where my Great Dao opportunity lies." The black-robed man looked at Qin Yun.


    "A Great Dao opportunity of yours?" Qin Yun was taken aback before immediately understanding.


    The Ancestral Dragon cultivated his body to the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    The bloodline powers he obtained were a Heavenly Dao realm bloodline power that belonged to another universe''s physical lineage! In the Three Realms, it would benefit the Ancestral Dragon the most!


    "Since this involves an opportunity for my Dao attainment, please help me. I will not let you down," the black-robed man said with utmost confidence.


    "Ancestral Dragon, I believe you are speaking of this¡­" Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a jade bottle. A golden thread flew out from inside.


    Upon seeing the golden thread, the black-robed man''s eyes lit up. He immediately looked at it carefully and revealed an excited look of delight. "Yes, yes, yes. It''s this. This is bloodline of a Heavenly Dao realm expert who cultivates his body? I never expected that there are other Heavenly Dao realm experts who cultivate their bodies apart from Pangu."


    "This is something I chanced upon in the spatial tide," said Qin Yun.


    "That makes it the Heavenly Dao realm of another universe." The black-robed man looked in excitement at the golden thread. "However, the Great Dao is the same everywhere. The cultivation Dharmic formulations might be different, but the charms of the Great Dao are the same. Daoist Qin, please be willing to part with this bloodline power! Feel free to name your price."


    He was bent on having it!


    The golden thread contained secrets that were too mystical. He needed to take his time to study it.


    For instance, the Pangu bloodline power was something the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure had studied for an extended period of time after obtaining it. He had given it to Qin Yun when it was no longer useful to him. Furthermore, the Ancestral Dragon had yet to reach the Heavenly Dao realm¡­ This wisp of bloodline powers was probably something he could not fully understand until he attained it.


    "Ancestral Dragon, you want it?" Qin Yun hesitated.


    "I know how extremely valuable this item is. Daoist Qin, what conditions must I meet before you are willing to sell it to me? Feel free to raise them," said Ancestral Dragon solemnly. At his realm, few things in the Three Realms attracted him.


    In fact, even the Lotus Seed of Fate from before was not as attractive to the Ancestral Dragon as this wisp of bloodline powers.


    "Condition?" Qin Yun hesitated. There was little in Three Realms that attracted him as well.


    After all, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor had the Pangu bloodline powers in their collections, but they were extremely precious. After all, it was a key that led to the Heavenly Dao realm of the physical lineage.


    As the bloodline powers of Heavenly Dao realm experts were rare, and something only Qin Yun had, its value was far above the Pangu bloodline powers.


    "Daoist Qin, please help me," said Ancestral Dragon earnestly.


    "Let''s do it this way," said Qin Yun. "Three Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals. In addition, you will have to agree to one thing."


    Ancestral Dragon revealed a look of delight. "Daoist Qin, what do you want me to do?"


    "I hope he''s not requesting me to join him in the spatial tide," thought Ancestral Dragon.


    The spatial tide¡­ was some place he was unwilling to go to.


    It was not that he feared it. Instead, all the dragons in the Three Realms relied on him to enjoy their present standing. Furthermore, once the Dao Ancestors and company left the Three Realms, the Three Realms would turn more chaotic. If the dragons did not have him, the dragons would likely be enslaved by numerous experts of the Three Realms, turning into mounts or slaves.


    He needed to live; therefore, he absolutely did not wish to enter any land of peril.


    "I wish that you will agree to¡­ protect my Qin family," said Qin Yun, "at least for three blood generations."


    The Ancestral Dragon immediately heaved a sigh of relief when he heard that. "Daoist Qin, don''t worry. Since I''ve received your treasure and agreed to it, I will definitely do my best to protect your Qin family. I will ensure the safety of at least three blood generations of yours."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    The Ancestral Dragon could only do his best. Whether he could ensure their safety was still an unknown.


    As the Ancestral Dragon, he needed to preside over the Dragon race''s dominion for an extended period of time! He was rather far from the Heavenly realm. Among the preparations Qin Yun had made for his family before his tribulation, the Ancestral Dragon was one. Although the Ancestral Dragon was powerful, he was ultimately burdened by too many matters.


    "These are the three Blood Crystals." The Ancestral Dragon spat out three purple blood crystals. If one looked carefully inside, there was a lustrous glow floating within.


    "These three Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals are most effective when taken as a Skydragon," said Ancestral Dragon. "It can rejuvenate them, raising their dragon bloodlines to that of my few children. Their strength will also rapidly rise to that of a half-step mighty figure."


    Qin Yun nodded and accepted them with a wave of his hand.


    The Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals were rather valuable, just like how Skydragon Blood Crystals came from Skydragons.


    To make the Ancestral Dragon produce three Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals harmed his essence, but with his strength, just three blood crystals had a trivial influence. All he needed to do was expend some treasures to slowly recover the damage. If he had to produce ten at a time, that would severely damage him. It was even possible that it would be irreparable.


    The Ancestral Dragon used a jade bottle to store away the golden thread. After receiving the treasure, he was rather happy. "I pretty much fleeced you this time. In the future, feel free to seek me if you need my help."


    "Definitely." Qin Yun nodded.


    Indeed, the Ancestral Dragon had the upper hand in this transaction.


    It was quite normal to exchange five Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals with one wisp of Pangu''s bloodline powers.


    The bloodline powers Qin Yun held were rarer and were urgently wanted by the Ancestral Dragon. Even if he had raised the price, the Ancestral Dragon would have agreed to it. However, it was likely that it would displease the Ancestral Dragon.


    Now, the Ancestral Dragon was extremely delighted, and their relationship also became a lot closer.


    "I shall not impose any longer. Goodbye." Ancestral Dragon stood up.


    Qin Yun also stood up to send him off.


    As Qin Yun watched the Ancestral Dragon leave, he nodded slightly. "My Qin family has dragon blood and a few who have turned into dragons! With the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal, my Qin family descendants will have stronger bloodlines. In a way, I''m saving for a rainy day."


    This was also one of the preparations he made for his family before his tribulation.

 677 A Thousand Years Lef

    "These are Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals?" Yi Xiao looked at the floating purple blood crystal suffusing a luster before her. It appeared to be the most dazzling existence in the world as it caused her dragon bloodline to boil over.


    This was the blood crystal of the ancestor of all dragons in the Three Realms.


    "It''s a blood crystal that was produced at the cost of damaging his core," said Qin Yun. "If consumed by a Skydragon, it will rejuvenate them. One''s talent would then be comparable to the nine sons of the Ancestral Dragon, giving them the strength of a half-step mighty figure. Xiaoxiao, you are now at the Skydragon realm, so it''s most suitable for you to consume them. Quickly consume it."


    Qin Yun looked at his wife with anticipation.


    "Since it''s so valuable, I think it''s best we choose someone from the younger generation with extremely high talent. My talent can only be considered ordinary." Despite being Qin Yun''s wife, Yi Xiao still found the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal too precious.


    "In order to exchange for a wisp of the bloodline powers of another universe expert, the Ancestral Dragon paid the price of three Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals and a promise," said Qin Yun with a smile. "After you consume one, our Qin family will still have two left. In the future, they can be given to excellent juniors of the Qin family. Hurry, don''t hesitate any longer."


    Upon hearing that there were three and under the urging of her husband, Yi Xiao no longer hesitated to reach out and put the purple blood crystal gently into her mouth.


    The moment it entered her mouth, it slipped into her stomach as the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal rapidly melted into her body.


    "Hmph!"


    Yi Xiao could not help but let out a grunt.


    Then, her skin turned translucent as they rapidly flushed red. The surrounding temperature rose as a result.


    Yi Xiao''s facial skin began to suffuse snow-white dragon scales as she could not help but turn into a dragon. In front of her husband, she typically maintained her human form.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    A snow-white dragon appeared. After the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals fused into her bloodline, her dragon scales became even more beautiful. Each dragon scale appeared to be a rare treasure as they swirled with a luster and contained Dao charms within. She had also become bigger in size.


    The gigantic snow-white dragon wound itself in the back mountains of Mt. Lightning Roar while enduring the pain of being rejuvenated. Qin Yun watched anxiously from the side and gradually, a frosty aura descended, causing snowflakes to flutter. Following that, lightning bolts sparked in the surrounding void, some lingering around the dragon, others fusing right into the snow-white dragon''s body.


    This process lasted for three days.


    Yi Xiao''s aura also became a lot stronger.


    Her snow-white dragon body shrank as she returned to her human form.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao''s aura had changed, turning colder with some suppressive might. That was a dragon''s might! After all, she had absorbed the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal and her talent now rivaled that of his sons. Having just broken through, Yi Xiao was unable to fully hold down her suppressive might.


    "How does it feel?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Magical." Yi Xiao nodded. "Just from consuming the Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal, I naturally gained insight into many Great Dao charms from my bloodline after the rejuvenation. I even naturally learned some divine powers."


    "This is talent," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Those Chaos Godfiends were born powerful. The Ancestral Dragon''s nine sons were born with various divine powers as well. Now that you have internalized one Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystal, you are in the same situation. You can naturally grasp more mystical charms and divine powers."


    Yi Xiao looked forward to what followed. "I feel that as long as I stabilize what I have and properly cultivate the divine powers stored within my bloodline, I would be able to reach the strength of a half-step mighty figure after consolidating my strength. However¡­ to become a mighty figure will still be difficult."


    "Your talent has been raised significantly. Cultivate well and in thousands of years, maybe more, you might be able to become a mighty figure. Although there are a few of the Ancestral Dragon''s nine sons who remain stuck at the Skydragon realm, many of them had become mighty figures," said Qin Yun.


    Yi Xiao laughed. "I never expected myself to possess such strength."


    "How many of the wives and children of those lords of Great Worlds are weak?" Qin Yun laughed. "We can only be considered normal."


    For instance, the Heavenly Courts'' Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li''s few sons.


    Or Yang Jian''s family and relatives¡­


    Similar situations in the Three Realms were common.


    As a half-step Heavenly Dao realm existence, Qin Yun could benefit his family despite being an Itinerant Immortal. His family was also considered a top immortal family clan. However, even if Qin Yun spared no expense to nurture them, all he could was nurture a few. For example, even people like the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure and Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning could only focus on a dozen or so disciples.


    The third and fourth generation disciples of Jade Void Palace received much more inferior resources.


    There were too many disciples in Green Touring Palace; therefore, disciples beneath that of mighty figures received only mediocre resources.


    ¡­


    Qin household. Treasure Pavilion.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao entered together and hid six jade bottles within.


    "I received a total of ten wisps of bloodline powers. One of them had been sacrificed to the Three Realms," said Qin Yun. "One was given to Master and another to the Ancestral Dragon. I will be bringing one with me to study it. The remaining six can be considered a cornerstone treasure of our Qin family. If I were to fail to transcend the tribulations, Xiaoxiao, you use these to seek help from half-step Heavenly Dao realm beings."


    "Brother Yun, you will definitely succeed at transcending the tribulations," said Yi Xiao immediately.


    "I''m just saying." Qin Yun chuckled.


    These were parts of his plan.


    There was nothing he could do. He had completely offended the fiends, so if he did not make sufficient preparations for his family, the Qin family would be wiped out the moment he perished from the tribulations.


    "Rumble~"


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao left Treasure Pavilion as heavy doors closed behind them.


    ******


    Be it Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor or Ancestral Dragon, the existence of the bloodline powers was kept secret.


    Qin Yun spent the following days in peace.


    He began a long period of seclusive cultivation.


    Apart from spending 99% of the time cultivating¡­ the remaining was spent to occasionally give pointers to the juniors and accompany his wife to enjoy delicacies in the Three Realms.


    Time passed¡­


    Two thousand plus years had passed since Qin Yun returned from the spatial tide.


    "Brother."


    Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan were playing chess. Despite them cultivating in the same Sword Dao, their chess-playing styles were different. Qin Yiyi was a lot sharper and unrestrained, while Meng Huan was more ingenious.


    As a carnage developed on the chess board, Qin Yiyi said, "Brother, Dad will likely be having his eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation soon, right?"


    "Yes." Meng Huan''s eyes suffused a look of anxiety as he nodded. "It should be one of these two days. The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation¡­ is said to be extremely powerful .One has to have the strength of a perfected Great Dao to survive it."


    Qin Yiyi said, "Dad already has strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. He will naturally be able to transcend it easily."


    "Yes, but the next one is the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation," said Meng Huan.


    "There''s only a thousand years left," Qin Yiyi replied softly.


    A thousand years.


    To the Three Realms, that was an extremely short period of time. Even for those at Qin Yiyi''s level, their cultivation seclusions could easily take more than a thousand years.


    And a thousand years later, their father, the person who frightened the fiends into sealing the Great Worlds, the number one sword immortal of the Three Realms¡­ one of the few half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences in the Three Realms, Sword Immortal Qin, was about to face the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    According to what was known¡­


    The ninth Itinerant Immortal tribulation required the strength of a mighty figure.


    The tenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation required the strength of a pinnacle mighty figure.


    The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation required the strength of a perfected Great Dao.


    Many experts in the Three Realms speculated that the twelfth tribulation very likely needed the strength of a Heavenly Dao realm.


    Could Qin Yun survive it?


    Even though he was peerless and stunning, no one was certain. Even the Dao Ancestors were unsure if Qin Yun could survive it.


    "Rumble~"


    A door opened in the distance.


    "Dad is out." Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan immediately put down their chess pieces and rushed over to greet him.

 678 Eleventh Itinerant Immortal Tribulation

    "Yiyi, Huan''er." Qin Yun looked at his children and felt a marked improvement in his mood.


    Qin Yiyi walked over and hugged Qin Yun''s arm. "Dad, your seclusive cultivation is typically short. Yet, you entered seclusion for three hundred years this time. It''s the longest seclusion in the recent two millennia. Have you had another breakthrough?"


    She asked this in an ingratiating manner while trying to get some news out of her father.


    If her father had a breakthrough, the chances of him surviving the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation would be a lot higher.


    "I did have a key breakthrough which resulted in a such a long seclusion," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan could not help but reveal their delight.


    "Dad, you are already at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Now that you have broken through again, perhaps you will be able to reach the Heavenly Dao realm soon," Qin Yiyi said.


    "How ignorant," Qin Yun berated her lightly. "I''ve only attained a perfected Great Dao recently. As a sword immortal, I only have the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm because my Intrinsic Flying Sword is a Connate Cardinal treasure. In terms of realm¡­ I''m far inferior to the likes of Ancestral Dragon or Amita."


    Qin Yun knew his limitations.


    People like Amita, Ancestral Dragon, and Hou Yi, they did not have any Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasures, but they possessed strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. It was purely from accumulated insight and experience as they grasped more than one perfected Great Dao. Even the three Human Sovereigns had realms above that of Qin Yun. In terms of realm, Qin Yun was only considered ordinary among the perfected Great Dao existences.


    What made him unique was his status as a sword immortal and that he had an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure in hand.


    On the contrary, it also meant that Qin Yun had a lot of room for improvement! If he could one day be equal to Amita and the Ancestral Dragon in terms of realm, Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword would only produce a might that was naturally more terrifying.


    "Hehe." Qin Yiyi giggled. "Regardless of reaching the Heavenly Dao realm or not, your strength has increased, right Dad? There''s nothing wrong with what I said, isn''t that so?"


    "You and your sweet mouth." Qin Yun curled his lips.


    Meng Huan added, "Dad, when will your eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation happen?"


    "Tomorrow." Qin Yun had a sliver of anticipation in his eyes.


    The eleventh time.


    Through it, he could estimate the might of the twelfth.


    ¡­


    The next day.


    Yi Xiao and a huge group of people, including many juniors and Qin Yun''s disciples, gathered at Mt. Lightning Roar''s mountaintop as they looked up into the sky.


    There, Qin Yun stood in midair. The sky had already turned red as wisps of red tribulation clouds gathered from every direction. They combined into a tribulation cloud that constantly grew in size as it turned darker.


    The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation was about to begin.


    "Time sure passes quickly."


    Deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Ancestral Fiend''s destruction body looked in the direction of the Heavenly realm. "Without me realizing it, this Qin Yun is already beginning to face his eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation! Soon. In another thousand years, it will be the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation! He will die from it and, without this madman''s obstruction, I can wage war again in the Three Realms.


    "The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are all waiting for the day we are forced to leave the Three Realms so that they can join forces to kill me." Ancestral Fiend sneered. "But would I just sit idle?


    "Before leaving the Three Realms, I will wage a war more cruel than the Daoist-Fiend war. I will make the Fiendish Heavenly Dao spread through even more territories and I will control even more territories of the Three Realms.


    "When the time comes, there will bloodshed¡­ and countless dead¡­


    "Hahaha¡­ even if I fail, the death of so many people of the orthodox path will result in their powers returning to the Three Realms. The burden the Three Realms would face would greatly reduce as well. The day I''ll have to leave the Three Realms would be greatly pushed back," thought Fiend Ancestor. "However, to wage this war, Qin Yun has to be finished first.


    "Amita can be dealt with using Boxun.


    "Ancestral Dragon? His duty is to the dragon race, he would not risk his life fighting the fiends.


    "The most critical element in the Daoist-Fiend war is Qin Yun. Just the addition of this half-step Heavenly Dao realm has created too much fear in others. Even if those old fools are willing to be bribed by me, few of them are willing to risk their lives fighting Qin Yun.


    "Therefore, it''s best you die under the Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    "Once you are dead, the difference in strength between fiend and Daoist won''t be that great."


    The Fiend Ancestor looked coldly towards the Heavenly realm.


    As Heavenly Dao realm existences, they were unable to enter Great Worlds or Small Worlds; therefore, the outcome of the war would be dependent on the countless immortals, Buddhists, and Godfiends. The influence of an additional half-step Heavenly Dao realm was just too great. It even raised the difficulty of bribing ancient existences.


    ¡­


    The fiends had sealed their Great Worlds because of Qin Yun. Beyond the fiendish dominions, there was nearly zero trace of the fiends.


    To lay dormant and employ such restraint, it was all because of Sword Immortal Qin.


    The fiends naturally hated Qin Yun to the bone, wishing that he was dead.


    There were people who hated him, but there were others who hoped that Qin Yun would succeed in transcending the tribulation.


    For instance, the Daoist Three Pure Ones and the Buddhist Ancestor, Gautama, all looked forward to it.


    "The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation. I wonder if he can survive the twelfth." In the Western Paradise Great World, the lord of the world, Amita, sat cross-legged on a lotus flower throne. His body emitted infinite light as he looked far into the Heavenly realm.


    "I still remember my first time meeting him. He was only a mortal. He dreamed a hundred years because of an item I left behind."


    Amita had a rather special fondness for Qin Yun.


    He had watched Qin Yun slowly develop himself, far earlier than Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    "There is cause and there is effect. Having done such great deeds in the Three Realms, you will receive great rewards," Amita said softly. He hoped that there would be a good outcome for Qin Yun.


    ******


    Qin Yun''s tribulation did attract the attention of many experts in the Three Realms. This was because the next one was the true life-and-death tribulation. It was a rare opportunity to see the means available to this legendary sword immortal! Furthermore¡­ since the Chaos developed, only Bai Ze''s previous incarnation had succeeded in surviving it. The others failed to survive it.


    Therefore, the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation was a rare event.


    "Rumble!" The blackish-red tribulation cloud turned into a spiral and its surface was black. There was a red glow deep in the eye of the vortex and it produced a rumbling sound. Clearly, it possessed extreme might.


    "According to the intelligence, the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation is a tribulation of wind, fire, and lightning. And the eleventh tribulation is only a fire tribulation."


    "Despite it being only a fire tribulation¡­ it requires the strength of a perfected Great Dao to be able to resist it."


    Qin Yun understood this point.


    The blackish-red cloud in the sky was gathering its strength before its imminent attack.


    However, the tribulation had already descended upon him.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s skin turned red as his eyes wore a fervent look.


    Flames rose in his heart!


    Qin Yun was an Itinerant Immortal and only had an Essence Soul for his body. The moment the flames rose, they naturally spread throughout his Essence Soul.


    Although there was a fervent look in his eyes, his Essence Soul was extraordinary. He was still able to maintain his calm despite the spreading of the flames. This was also an Essence Soul at the perfected Great Dao level. If his Essence Soul was at the pinnacle Great Dao level, the flames would probably turn more demented. Then, the various fire tribulations that followed would reduce the chances of him successfully transcending by at least half.


    A wisp of misty rain flew out from Qin Yun''s fingertip and transformed into three flying swords. They floated in three directions and they were none other than Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    Instantly, the Misty Rain Array was set up.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    Flames that were originally invisible in the void exposed themselves under the Misty Rain Array''s envelopment. The transparent flames were easily repressed by the Misty Rain Array.


    "After I transcend this eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation, I will invite Hou Yi and company to enter the Chaos spatial rift again," thought Qin Yun. "The experts inside the spatial tide have unfathomable means. Perhaps, I might end up bumping in someone stronger than Fate. Hou Yi will be first on the list of invitees, but I still need to invite a few others.


    "To invite them, I need to demonstrate my strength.


    "Many experts in the Three Realms are watching this Itinerant Immortal tribulation of mine. It''s the best time to demonstrate my strength," thought Qin Yun. "Also, I can take the opportunity to see how strong the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation could be."


    "Go."


    Qin Yun gave a mental command.


    Countless sword beams flew up within the vast Misty Rain Array. Billions of sword beams combined into a sword beam that flew straight into the blackish-red tribulation cloud.


    "What?"


    "He plans on attacking the tribulation cloud?"


    This scene shocked many experts in the Three Realms.


    By attacking the tribulation cloud, it would release all the energy accumulated within instantly. The might would be much greater. It would be fine if Qin Yun tried this in previous tribulations, but to do it at the eleventh tribulation was madness.


    "The fire in the heart, the fire in space, the fire in stone, the fire in wood, a total of nineteen flames. I do not have the time to slowly sample them. Just let it all out at once. By releasing them all at once, perhaps the might would be close to that of the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation," thought Qin Yun. As he carefully used the Misty Rain Array to put up an impermeable defense, he attacked the tribulation cloud.

 679 Stronger Again

    The billions of sword beams combined into one divine dragonlike beam that swept through the sky, flying straight into the blackish-red tribulation cloud.


    Attacking a tribulation cloud was taboo during the transcendence of a tribulation. Only those with absolute confidence of transcending a tribulation would dare to do so. Therefore, this scene left many mighty figures in the Three Realms watching with bated breaths.


    "Boom!!!"


    After the sword beam flew into the tribulation cloud, the red glow in the eye of the vortex expanded abruptly as it erupted!


    "Seal." Qin Yun looked high up as he shouted lightly.


    The sword beam suddenly drew out a circle, completely sealing the tribulation cloud, and although the tribulation cloud was smiting with all its might, the released powers were completely restrained.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" The tribulation cloud''s fires swept in every direction.


    Qin Yun''s expression changed slightly.


    The sword beam barely lasted for a breath before it buckled against the forces.


    "Disperse."


    Qin Yun immediately followed up with a mental command.


    The sword beam dispersed and broke off into billions of sword flashes that rapidly flew beneath the bottom of the tribulation cloud to condense into another dragonlike beam.


    "The power within the tribulation cloud is too powerful. I''m still far from being able to seal it straight on," Qin Yun thought. "This move I recently figured out from my seclusion, Streaming Dragon, is the strongest offensive move of the Misty Rain Array. It''s about 100% stronger than the Three Absolutes Seven Stars from before. It''s enough to match the silver-haired woman from the other universe. It''s unable to suppress the tribulation cloud, but would it be able to withstand it?" Qin Yun pondered.


    He was also trying to pry into the might of the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation and from there, estimate the might of the next tribulation.


    Boom!" The tribulation cloud''s flames burgeoned as it changed internally. Finally, the burgeoning cloud rapidly contracted into a tiny tribulation cloud which was of even more horrifying might.


    "Boom!"


    The contracted tribulation cloud spewed out a black flame that blasted straight at Qin Yun.


    "It''s here."


    As all the tribulation cloud''s powers gathered into a black flame that came blasting downwards, the Streaming Dragon sword beam soared into the sky, clashing with it head on.


    Accompanied by a loud bang, the black flame column collided with the Streaming Dragon beam. As the Streaming Dragon swirled around, the entire beam resisted with all its might, putting its power into diverting the flame! The black flaming column was constantly attacking as it burned the Streaming Dragon. Sword flashes were constantly disintegrated from the burning as the Streaming Dragon rapidly shrank at a discernible pace.


    Soon, the Streaming Dragon shrank to absolute oblivion while it swirled around.


    After the black flames destroyed the Streaming Dragon, there was little left of the remnant black flames. But before they could make enough progress to touch the Misty Rain Array, they were destroyed by the drizzle that permeated the area.


    The world returned to calmness.


    The tribulation cloud was gone as well.


    "The tribulation cloud was able to deliver its full might, and was able to annihilate my strongest Misty Rain Array offensive move." Qin Yun looked up as the black flames dissolved in his Misty Rain domain. His heart was heavy. "The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation''s combined blast should be able to match the might of the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation''s fire tribulation.


    "However, the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation is comprised of the wind, fire, and lightning tribulations. The wind and fire tribulations are secondary, while the lightning tribulation is the strongest.


    "The tribulation cloud released strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Going by this¡­ the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation''s most terrifying lightning tribulation likely has might at the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Is it really as speculated that one has to have the strength at the Heavenly Dao realm to survive it?" This thought weighed on Qin Yun''s mind.


    "Whatever. I will adopt the necessary measures depending on the situation. I will do whatever can be done and do my best. If I still fail, there will be nothing more for me to say." Qin Yun quickly collected himself as he turned to look at the worried crowd on Mt. Lightning Roar''s mountaintop. He revealed a smile as he took a step forward.


    ¡­


    Fiendish dominion.


    Boxun sat cross-legged on a desolate cliff as he watched everything that happened in the Heavenly realm.


    "He did not even use the Misty Rain Array to withstand the blast. Just with a combination of sword beams, he managed to face off the tribulation cloud?" Boxun said softly. "This Sword Immortal Qin''s strength has risen again. He''s a lot stronger than when he killed Daoist Wen."


    His eyes were extremely sharp.


    He noticed at a glance that Qin Yun''s Streaming Dragon was much stronger than the Three Absolutes Seven Stars which killed Daoist Wen.


    "Previously, only his defensive sword array was powerful enough to count him among the half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences. His offensive moves lined the bottom, making him weaker than Zhurong and me, much less the Ancestral Dragon or Hou Yi. Now, this dragonlike sword beam''s strength is not inferior to mine. He has rectified one of his weaknesses." Boxun sighed secretly.


    The speed at which Qin Yun grew made him feel the pressure.


    "Truly astonishing. This sword immortal is so powerful that he makes us fiends powerless against him. If he were left to develop his strength further, it''s not impossible for him to wipe out the fiends across the Three Realms. Thankfully, an even more terrifying Itinerant Immortal tribulation is awaiting him a thousand years later." Boxun looked forward to the day that the Itinerant Immortal tribulation would take Qin Yun away.


    If not, Sword Immortal Qin would prove to be a huge catastrophe for the fiends.


    ¡­


    "Impressive. His sword beam fended off the tribulation cloud?" A white-dressed man marveled. "This Sword Immortal Qin is turning even more unfathomable."


    ¡­


    "Qin Yun is highly talented. Unfortunately, there is the Heavenly Tribulation stopping him. However, these Heavenly Tribulations are a form of training. One Itinerant Immortal tribulation at a time is a form of tempering. As long as he survives it, it will only make him stronger." The lord of the Western Paradise Great World, Amita, looked into the distance. "Is it a calamity or luck?"


    Amita''s eyes glinted with a light of wisdom. Feeling inspired, he immediately sat cross-legged, closed his eyes, and entered a deep level of meditation.


    He even isolated himself from all contact.


    Apart from Buddhist Ancestor Gautama''s forced contact, no other cultivator could disturb him.


    *****


    Only the most pinnacle existences of the entire Three Realms understood the might of Qin Yun''s transcendence. The ancient existences all knew that Sword Immortal Qin was now stronger than when he killed Daoist Wen.


    "Numinous Treasure, this disciple of yours is developing at quite a startling speed. If his Intrinsic Flying Sword were to become a Merit Cardinal treasure, perhaps he might be able to survive the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation," said Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor via voice transmission. "I also wish to see if the Itinerant Immortal tribulations have an end before I leave the Three Realms. If there is really an end, and the final tribulation is survived, what sort of changes would an Itinerant Immortal undergo?"


    "If my disciple can''t survive it, perhaps no Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms can," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Numinous Treasure, are you that certain? Who can tell the future that clearly?" Grand Supreme said.


    "I refuse to believe that there will be an Itinerant Immortal stronger than my disciple in the Three Realms." Numinous Treasure curled his lips.


    Grand Supreme laughed without an additional word.


    ¡­


    The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation became a talking point among many beings in the Three Realms. After all, since Bai Ze''s previous incarnation in ancient times, Qin Yun was the only one who survived the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    Everyone talked about the might of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    They wondered if Sword Immortal Qin was able to survive the twelfth tribulation and if he would finally be free from the Itinerant Immortal tribulations or perish to an even stronger one.


    Once he died, the Fiend Ancestor would attack him in Samsara! He would ensure that Qin Yun died completely.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    A wisp of bloodline powers of another universe and a wisp of Pangu''s bloodline powers floated around in a chamber.


    Qin Yun was seated cross-legged when he finally opened his eyes.


    It was nine months after the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation. He had entered seclusion to digest everything he gleaned from the tribulation.


    "Retrieve." Two jade bottles stored away the two wisps of bloodline powers.


    "Ever since I obtained these two bloodline powers of the physical lineage, I have been studying them carefully, especially the one from the alternate universe. After all, he is better at defense, while Pangu''s bloodline can only be used as reference for now," thought Qin Yun. "But even with it only being a reference, I was able to figure out Streaming Dragon. If I were to fully focus on the Pangu bloodline powers, I might be able to figure out an even stronger move."


    Qin Yun laughed. "However, I can''t waste my time.


    "If I survive the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation and obtain eternal life, I will then have the luxury of time to carefully study Pangu''s bloodline powers."


    The Three Realms had many Dharmic formulations, array formations, and divine powers which were related to Pangu''s bloodline powers.


    Furthermore, they were extremely powerful in battle.


    As for the bloodline powers of the other universe, Qin Yun had been studying them for more than two thousand years. He had benefited greatly from them. He even had the chance of figuring out divine powers and mystic arts, all of which were extremely powerful at defense.


    "I have little time left. I should head to the Chaos spatial rift." Qin Yun got up and exited seclusion.


    On the same day.


    Qin Yun headed to the Effulgent Great World to visit Hou Yi.


    On his trip to the Chaos spatial rift, Hou Yi was the first person on his invite list.

 680 Qin Yun and Hou Yi

    Effulgent Great World.


    Qin Yun traversed the void and exited in midair. He followed his senses and saw a wooden hut in the mountains. In front of the hut was a pond where a linen-clothed man was fishing.


    "Hou Yi." Qin Yun sensed through his karmic connection and naturally knew that the linen-clothed man was Hou Yi.


    "Oh? He appears to be fishing, but his rod emits inclinations of Samsara?" Qin Yun was alarmed. He too was a perfected Great Dao expert and could sense that the power in the rod was seeping towards the Six Realms of Samsara. However, the Six Realms of Samsara was extremely mysterious, something that Qin Yun found difficult to probe.


    Hou Yi continued to hold his rod and looked over. Qin Yun landed in front of the wooden hut and smiled. "Dao Brother Hou Yi truly is impressive. You are actually figuring out Samsara?"


    "Daoist Qin, you flatter me. I''m only making an attempt." Hou Yi shook his head. "The Six Realms of Samsara is core to the operations of the Three Realms. Countless beings rely on it for reincarnation. Even the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Goddess Houtu only aid in the operations of the Six Realms of Samsara, and are unable to interfere in it. I have attempted to study it, but I''ve failed to make any progress."


    "Dao Brother Hou Yi, you are incapable of discerning anything?" Qin Yun was astonished.


    Hou Yi was different from him.


    His realm was still lacking due to his limited accumulated experience, but Hou Yi was probably only a short distance away from the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "How is one to probe it if the Heavenly Dao prevents it? Even the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor are only barely able to deliver a sliver of strength deep into Samsara at the Heavenly Dao realm and destroy some souls. Their power cannot influence the Six Realms of Samsara at its core," said Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Deep in the Six Realms of Samsara, the Dao Ancestors and Fiend Ancestor were limited in what they could do. The most they could do was deliver a sliver of strength to destroy souls, but not protect a soul. Destruction and protection had very different difficulties.


    "Ever since the Fiend Ancestor began shamelessly attacking juniors, the mighty figures of the Three Realms no longer dare reincarnate," said Qin Yun.


    "In the early days, many mighty figures chose to reincarnate." Hou Yi nodded. "For instance, your sword immortal lineage can cultivate an Intrinsic Flying Sword. You have even cultivated it into an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure. There must be many mighty figures in the Three Realms who are tempted to do the same. If we were still in the early days of the Three Realms, perhaps many mighty figures would have chosen to reincarnate and switch to being a sword immortal."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Many Dharmic formulations did not allow for change once the path was chosen.


    To switch paths? The only way was to reincarnate.


    In the early days of the Three Realms¡­


    The dangers of reincarnation were one, how weak the person was prior to their awakening; and two, being unable to recover their peak strength in a short period of time even after an awakening. They would then be in danger if an enemy discovered them.


    However, many mighty figures still chose to reincarnate because there were many benefits.


    "If not for the Fiend Ancestor, even if you succumb to the tribulations, you could reincarnate and cultivate again like Bai Ze," said Hou Yi. "Unfortunately, you do not have such a chance."


    "That''s why I was born to be at odds with the fiends," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    Hou Yi smiled faintly. "For the mighty Sword Immortal Qin to come here, I doubt it''s just to have a casual conversation with me?"


    "Dao Brother Hou Yi, I''m here to invite you on a trip to the Chaos spatial rift," said Qin Yun.


    "Chaos spatial rift?" Hou Yi frowned before chortling. "You should know that my defensive means are quite weak. I''m able to kill experts from other universes in the spatial tide, but their means are usually unpredictable. They can just as easily kill me. And to me¡­ the Three Realms is perfect. Why should I risk my life in the Chaos spatial rift?"


    "I''m best at defense, and I believe I can ensure your safety," said Qin Yun.


    "I don''t like to leave my life in the hands of others." Hou Yi shook his head.


    Qin Yun hesitated.


    According to the intelligence he had gathered, Hou Yi was someone who engaged in combat in the early days of the Three Realms. He once slew many fiends, but ever since the events revolving around Chang''e, he maintained a much lower profile and stopped intervening in the matters of the Three Realms. Despite being acknowledged as the master of the Effulgent Great World by the Three Realms, he could not be bothered to manage it. It was as though nothing stirred his interest.


    Chang''e was taboo when it came to Hou Yi. It could not be mentioned, for it might lead to a loss of decorum.


    The only thing Hou Yi cared about was God King Zhurong who had killed his father. However, Zhurong was in hiding, leaving Qin Yun without solution.


    What else did Hou Yi care about?


    Cultivation was the only thing left. Even his fishing was a form of cultivation.


    "Dao Brother Hou Yi, exposing yourself to the means available to the experts in the spatial tide will be beneficial to your cultivation as well," said Qin Yun. "Furthermore, my motive is to obtain corpses of experts from other universes. I wouldn''t take any of their treasures, and they will be left to you and other fellow Daoists."


    "You still plan on inviting others?" Hou Yi looked at Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    Qin Yun nodded. "I still plan on inviting Kong Xuan who is best at domains. The stronger the companions who head into the spatial tide, the greater our chances. Back when Daoism''s Three Pure Ones had yet to attain the Heavenly Dao realm, they adventured into the spatial tide together and engaged in life-and-death battles. Later, all three of them attained the Heavenly Dao realm. I believe that our combined forces wouldn''t be inferior to the Three Pure Ones of yesteryear."


    Hou Yi nodded slightly.


    The Three Pure Ones were very powerful even before they attained the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Qin Yun''s defense, Hou Yi''s offense, and Kong Xuan''s domain might not be as powerful as the Three Pure Ones of yesteryear when it came to a one-on-one, but their combined forces¡­ would create synergy.


    "Apart from you, me, and Kong Xuan, I plan to invite Wood God Goumang. If we encounter difficult enemies, Goumang will be able to fend them off," said Qin Yun.


    "Yes, that does seem pretty good." Hou Yi smiled.


    His interest was indeed piqued.


    The combination of the four was indeed extremely powerful.


    "I do not have doubts about Kong Xuan''s and Goumang''s abilities. However, you mean for your sword array to ensure our safety. It is therefore of utmost importance," said Hou Yi as he nodded. "I need to see how powerful your sword array is. I will shoot nine arrows in a row. If you are able to withstand all nine, I''ll agree to head out with you. If you fail to withstand my arrows, we can forget about it!"


    Qin Yun''s fighting spirit soared as he nodded with a smile. "Alright, I have long wished to try the might of your arrows."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun flew into midair. His Misty Rain Sword had already split into three and set up an array formation.


    Instantly, the Misty Rain Array enveloped the surroundings.


    Qin Yun looked into the distance.


    Standing far away in midair was Hou Yi. He said, "I''ll shoot nine arrows, each stronger than the last. The ninth arrow will have the might of the Heavenly Dao realm, so be careful."


    Without casting a forbidden art, Hou Yi needed to accumulate strength by shooting nine consecutive arrows before delivering strength at the Heavenly Dao realm. If he cast his forbidden art, just like when he attacked Zhurong previously¡­ the price would be immense. But for a mere sparring, nine consecutive blows was already ruthless enough.


    "Come on." Qin Yun was filled with anticipation.


    Qin Yun was best at defense beneath the Heavenly Dao realm while Hou Yi was best at offense.


    Now, he was defending while Hou Yi was attacking?


    What would happen?


    Standing afar, Hou Yi took on the rare mood of a soaring fighting spirit. He held an ancient but unadorned longbow in one hand and took out a golden arrow with his other.


    "I''ll begin!" After saying that, Hou Yi suddenly pulled his bow to a full draw, his arrow strung onto the bow string.


    "Whoosh."


    The arrow shot out as a flashing beam.


    Qin Yun was extremely serious. The last time he saw Hou Yi deliver an attack was when he was attacking Zhurong. This time, Hou Yi''s arrow did not cause much of a stir, but it was still very fast.


    It was extremely fast!


    There was no way of dodging, only facing it straight on!


    "Bam." The beam struck the Misty Rain Array as the ripples produced were deep. The beam of light did not cause much of a stir.


    But in fact, this strike was already enough to match the full strength of the silver-haired woman from another universe. Back then, Qin Yun could easily withstand it, and now, having studied the bloodline powers of the Heavenly Dao realm expert of another universe for two thousand years, his Misty Rain Realm was even stronger. As such, the arrow did not cause much trouble to him.


    "It didn''t perturb it one bit? Interesting." Hou Yi smiled as he did not hesitate to draw his bow again.


    He shot very quickly.


    One arrow after another, they accumulated in strength, causing each arrow to be stronger than the previous one.


    The fifth, sixth, seventh!


    "Boom!" At the seventh arrow, there was a rumbling loud boom when the arrow struck the Misty Rain Array. The Misty Rain Array also began producing gigantic waves like a deep sea. However, the entire array remained stable. Clearly, it had yet to reach its limits.


    "The might of this seventh arrow matches that of Fate''s combined forces of thirty-two envoys. As expected of Hou Yi!" Qin Yun turned even more serious. Far away, Hou Yi had already pulled his bow again. The eighth arrow came blazing at him.

 681 Everyone Gathered Final Chapter of Volume

    The Misty Rain Array was vast and deep. All it produced were tumultuous waves and a loud boom after being struck by the arrow. The array formation itself remained extremely stable.


    "Oh?" Hou Yi was very astonished. "You actually managed to withstand the eighth arrow as well without reaching the limit of your array formation?"


    Although he was surprised, Hou Yi still flipped his hand and produced the ninth arrow.


    The continuous shooting of arrows made it so every arrow was stronger than the last. By the ninth arrow, the strength would have accumulated to a perfect state, as if all the strength was stacked together. The ninth arrow''s might was clearly much more elevated than the eighth arrow''s, and its might directly reached the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Hum." When the arrow was strung onto the bow, its might accumulated, causing the surrounding space to tremble. Hou Yi cast his gaze on Qin Yun.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun sensed the accumulating might of the aura and had a hunch of its immense threat. He had a feeling that the ninth arrow threatened his life.


    Without hesitation, Qin Yun instantly ignited his Essence Soul Dharmic powers.


    "Boom!" The ignition of the Essence Soul caused his Dharmic powers to rise instantly.


    For ordinary Skyimmortals and Skyfiends, burning their Essence Souls would damage their fundamentals. Even their souls would become incomplete and suffer loss of memory. Their perceptivity also dropped.


    But if one became a mighty figure¡­ recovery from the occasional burning of one''s Essence Souls was possible.


    If one was a perfected Great Dao expert, no matter how heavy the damage to their Essence Soul was, time could be taken to slowly recover until perfection was restored.


    For instance, back when Hou Yi dealt with Zhurong, he had burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers! He had burned large amounts of Dharmic powers at once to inject them into his arrow to produce such terrifying might.


    The expert from another universe, Fate, had also burned his Essence Soul to maintain thirty-two envoy avatars at the same time. His burning of his Essence Soul lasted for more than a day before he risked having to go into slumber. That was when he stopped burning his Essence Soul. On the one hand, he was able to burn his Essence Soul for only that long because he needed to control the envoys, but the expenditure of energy was very little. On the other hand, the higher the realm, the more mastery one had of their Essence Soul.


    "Whoosh."


    The ninth arrow flashed.


    Qin Yun clearly saw it, but he found himself moving too slowly. There was no way for him to dodge, and all he could do was burn his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to augment his Misty Rain Array. In turn, the array turned vaster and deeper as though it was the boundless Chaos.


    Accompanied by a loud bang, the arrow beam struck into the Misty Rain Array. The dark array distorted and depressed, and although the arrow beam was still drilling into the sword array, it had been blocked.


    When the arrow came to a halt, Qin Yun immediately stopped burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers. The expenditure wasn''t excessive if he was only burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to maintain the sword array; it wouldn''t be hard to maintain it for four hours. However, at the instant it withstood the arrow blow at the Heavenly Dao realm¡­ the sharp rise in Dharmic power expenditures was staggering.


    "Even if I were to burn my Essence Soul to augment my Misty Rain Array, I can probably only withstand eight to nine of such arrows before my Essence Soul buckles." Qin Yun knew this very well.


    "Hahaha." Hou Yi put away his bow and walked over with a rapturous laugh. "I thought you would have to burn your Essence Soul at the seventh arrow. I never expected that I could only force you to burn your Essence Soul using the ninth arrow''s Heavenly Dao realm might. Even for me, if not for the accumulation of force from the previous eight arrows, I would only be able to produce an arrow at the Heavenly Dao realm by burning my Essence Soul.


    "I did not burn my Essence Soul even when I was besieged by more than thirty other universe experts," said Qin Yun with a smile. "After cultivating for more than two thousand years since my return, I believe my strength has improved. Yet, I still was forced by you to burn my Essence Soul."


    "In a real life-and-death struggle, you wouldn''t be silly enough to stand there to allow me to rain blows on you, accumulating strength one after another. You would probably have released your sword beam to attack me," said Hou Yi humbly. It was the truth. For instance, he had instantly ignited his Essence Soul to produce an arrow strike at the Heavenly Dao realm when dealing with Zhurong. This was because there was no way an enemy would allow him to slowly accumulate strength in a life-and-death struggle.


    Qin Yun asked, "Then, on what we agreed prior?"


    "Haha, I''ll naturally abide by my promises." Hou Yi looked at Qin Yun. "After we enter the Chaos spatial rift, my life will be in your hands, Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Similarly, my life will be in your hands, Hou Yi." Qin Yun smiled as well.


    When the time came, they would be partners in life and death.


    "Shall we head over to invite Kong Xuan?" asked Hou Yi.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun said straightforwardly.


    ¡­


    Kong Xuan was the Buddhists'' Mahamayuri Wisdom King. His strength was unfathomable and his domain means were best in the Three Realms. Even the Buddhist Ancestor, Gautama, had once accidentally been taken down by him, but of course, he instantly escaped the confinement.


    He was the Buddhist Ancestor after all.


    If a perfected Great Dao existence were to face Kong Xuan, a weaker one would be taken down. Those with stronger means would have their strengths halved from the suppression.


    "Kong Xuan''s realm is rather high, but he enjoys being a general in the human world as he leads army troops." Outside a human city''s general''s residence in the Heavenly realm, Hou Yi said to Qin Yun.


    Hou Yi and Qin Yun stood on a bustling street as they looked at the General''s residence.


    "Kong Xuan is here," said Qin Yun.


    At the door, a white-dressed man walked over. He had extraordinary looks and bearing, and as he walked out the door leisurely, he looked at Hou Yi and Qin Yun with a smile. He cupped his hands and said, "Brother Hou Yi, Sword Immortal Qin, the both of you gave me quite a shock by visiting me at the same time. Please, come on in."


    Even the someone as proud as Kong Xuan was rather humble when facing these two.


    "Let''s go." Hou Yi and Qin Yun entered the general''s residence together.


    Inside the manor, Kong Xuan, Hou Yi, and Qin Yun took their respective seats.


    As he drank some fine wine, Kong Xuan smiled. "Let me guess. The reason why the two of you are here is to invite me to enter the Chaos spatial rift with you?"


    "As expected of a gifted general and wartime strategist. Your guess is truly accurate," said Qin Yun.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, you have yet to attain a Merit Cardinal treasure, so you would definitely head to the spatial tide again. Now that you are here with Brother Hou Yi, I don''t think my guess was difficult," said Kong Xuan.


    "So will you join us?" Hou Yi asked directly.


    Kong Xuan laughed with a radiant smile. "Of course! For Sword Immortal Qin and Brother Hou Yi to be together, such a chance is rare. I obviously have to go."


    Qin Yun felt relieved. Kong Xuan was quite a straightforward guy.


    "Apart from the three of us, are you inviting anyone else?" inquired Kong Xuan.


    "He will be here immediately," said Qin Yun.


    Kong Xuan and Hou Yi sensed something as they looked into the sky, far outside the general''s residence. High in the clouds, an azure-robed elder appeared.


    "Wood God Goumang." Kong Xuan''s brows pricked up.


    Goumang entered the residence in one step. When he arrived beside the trio, he said with a smile, "I''ve long been waiting for Sword Immortal Qin''s news. I came the moment he informed me."


    "With Hou Yi as offense, Sword Immortal Qin to defend us, me to suppress the surroundings, and Wood God Goumang responsible for restraining the enemy," Kong Xuan smiled and said, "we will probably be able to fight for dozens of rounds against a Heavenly Dao realm expert."


    "If we were to encounter that Fate again, he''s doomed," said Goumang.


    "When shall we set off?" Hou Yi looked towards the other three.


    "Anytime," Kong Xuan said. Goumang chuckled and said, "Now is fine."


    "Let''s do it in three days," said Qin Yun. "We still need to make some preparations and decide on a plan."


    Hou Yi looked at Kong Xuan and Goumang before saying, "Then three days it is!"


    Apart from deciding on a plan, Qin Yun also needed to restore his Essence Soul.


    Having burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to withstand Hou Yi''s arrow, he had suffered some damage. Of course, three days was sufficient time to restore his Essence Soul to its peak since it was only a single blow. In fact, the time taken to travel in the spatial tide was very long. There was more than sufficient time to restore his Essence Soul during the journey, but Qin Yun wanted to be careful and maintain an optimal state.


    ¡­


    After Qin Yun and company decided on a plan, they returned to their residences.


    Three days later.


    On the peak of Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao watched the sun rise.


    "This trip into the spatial tide, it could be as short as a hundred plus years and as long as three centuries," Qin Yun said to his wife with a smile. "After I return and successfully refine a Merit Cardinal treasure, I won''t be heading into the spatial tide again. I will be focusing on the upcoming tribulation."


    "Brother Yun, you are indeed much stronger than the previous time, but the experts from other universes are unpredictable. You must not be careless," exhorted Yi Xiao.


    "Okay." Qin Yun extended his hand to smoothen a lop of hair by Yi Xiao''s ear. "I''m leaving."


    With that said, he tore through space with a step.


    Yi Xiao stood on the mountaintop for a long while before she returned home.


    ******


    In the boundless Chaos, Qin Yun and Kong Xuan were the first to arrive outside Goumang''s cave abode. Hou Yi was the last to arrive, being slightly late.


    "That''s all of us." Goumang laughed.


    "Then let''s set off." Hou Yi had fighting spirit burning in his eyes. Kong Xuan and Qin Yun also looked forward to this expedition. Immediately, they tore into the void and tore through distant space again and again, heading straight for one of the Chaos spatial rifts by the periphery of the Three Realms.


    This Chaos spatial rift was chosen because intelligence indicated that there were the most number of other-universe experts in there.


    According to the plan, they would storm through every opponent as they proceeded!


    (End of Volume)

 682 Encountering a Sneak Attack

    Qin Yun and company flew through the spatial tide.


    "At the speed we are flying, it will probably take twelve years before we reach our first target," said Goumang with a smile.


    "Although I''ve sneaked into the spatial tide alone in the past, I''ve never properly explored it, much less engaged in battle with experts from other universes." Kong Xuan looked forward to their expedition as he smiled at Goumang. "Brother Goumang, in terms of experience in the spatial tide, you have the most experience among us. You have to help me."


    Hou Yi nodded with a smile. "Give me some pointers as well."


    "I''ve only entered once in the past," added Qin Yun.


    "Are the three of you deliberately mocking me? I was just a little bolder because of my avatar," said Goumang. "Although I''ve encountered quite a few situations, and met quite a dangerous opponent with Sword Immortal Qin and Rushou previously, that was just one opponent. In the spatial tide, any surprise can happen. One has to remember the one important thing in the spatial tide¡ªthat is to hide one''s strength! Try your best to hide your strength, for it might create miracles at a critical juncture. If one''s strength is completely exposed, it''s very easy to be targeted."


    "Although we are very powerful, it''s possible that experts from other universes are even stronger than us," warned Goumang.


    "When the difference is strength is small, it will depend on strategy," said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    In a life-and-death battle, there was no chance of a redo.


    Therefore, utmost care had to be taken.


    ¡­


    In the vast spatial tide, an inconspicuous rundown wooden ship was flying.


    It had flags and banners, but it looked like it was in shambles.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    Gray auras permeated every spot in the ship, so much so that its surface was immersed in gray auras.


    Within this envelopment, the ship did not emit any aura as it vanished completely.


    "Whoosh~" Gray auras gathered and manifested as a blurry female figure.


    The translucent figure stood at the bow as she looked far into the distance. With a smile on her face, she mused, "I killed another prey successfully. This prey sure had many treasures, especially that Demonic Saber. I wonder how many lives it has ended. It''s of great help to me, raising my strength by fifty percent."


    The woman was in an excellent mood.


    Although she preyed in the spatial tide perennially, to find a treasure that raised her strength by fifty percent was very rare. After all, at her realm, to raise her strength by ten percent was difficult. The Demonic Saber suited her very well.


    "Oh?" The woman suddenly looked ahead.


    In front of her were four figures carefully flying through the spatial tide.


    "Four lives from another universe?" The woman was instantly delighted as a smile suffused the corners of her mouth. "To have four of them join forces, it''s obvious they seldom come to the spatial tide. Their fear prevents them from taking action alone. Haha¡­ Only weaklings will feel fear to the point of forming groups."


    The moment she saw that it was a quartet in action, she determined that they seldom visited the spatial tide.


    This was because hunters in the spatial tide had to endure the misery of loneliness. Few experts would join forces to alleviate the loneliness and be able to actually trust each other.


    For instance, the Three Realms had yet to produce one hunter, much less a few.


    Furthermore, hunters typically had a common trait¡ªthey were extremely confident in their life-preservation means! Even when facing other-universe experts of unknown origins, they were confident of surviving. For instance, back when Qin Yun fought Fate, the outcome was Qin Yun and company fleeing. All they killed were three envoys controlled by Fate.


    Every hunter was extremely difficult to deal with.


    "Four prey. How unconfident are you to act as a quartet?" The woman scoffed before dissipating into gray auras and fusing into the rundown ship''s aura.


    Whoosh!


    The rundown ship silently approached Qin Yun and company at an extremely fast speed. The distance between them was constantly contracting.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company were still traversing the spatial tide as Qin Yun diverted some of his attention to think about his Misty Rain Array.


    Traveling was boring. Furthermore, they had traveled for eight years, still four years away from their destination.


    "Whoosh." The wooden ship rapidly approached.


    When traveling, Qin Yun, Goumang, Hou Yi also used all their means to stay alert, but they failed to detect the ship.


    "Careful, an enemy is approaching." Kong Xuan wore his usual expression as he secretly sent a voice transmission.


    "An enemy is approaching?" Qin Yun, Goumang, and Hou Yi were alarmed.


    "The enemy''s covert arts are extremely impressive. Perhaps most detection means in the Three Realms would be useless against this enemy," said Kong Xuan via voice transmission. "If not for me being present, the three of you might only have detected the enemy when the protective array was struck. If that had happened, the three of you would probably not be able to react in time."


    Hou Yi was secretly alarmed as he asked, "Where''s the enemy. What does he look like? Do you know anything about him?"


    "A ship is approaching," said Kong Xuan. "An extremely sinister and dark power is lurking within the ship. As for the enemy, I can''t find him. He''s likely hidden somewhere in the ship."


    "You can''t even find the enemy?" Qin Yun, Goumang, and Hou Yi felt their hearts tighten.


    "Shall we go according to the plan?" said Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "Yes. Both you and Hou Yi will hold back. You are our main offensive. Leave it to Goumang and me first," said Kong Xuan. How they dealt with enemies had long been decided in their planning.


    To release all their strength instantly would only scare the enemy away.


    "He''s here," said Kong Xuan. "He''s about to attack."


    "Okay."


    Qin Yun long had his Misty Rain Sword split into three flying swords which hid in his sleeves. He had already conjured the Misty Rain Array, but had its might converged. Furthermore, its range was kept small, making it envelop only a thousand feet around them, as though it was just a typical protective measure.


    "Four prey huddling in a group!"


    Laughter resounded above the rundown ship, but no one beyond it could hear it.


    Sou!


    Gray auras suddenly burst out from the rundown ship as the ship sped up. The might turned extremely terrifying as the aura released was finally detected by Qin Yun and company.


    "Boom!" The rundown ship slammed over with terrifying might.


    The most critical protective measure Qin Yun and company had was the Misty Rain Array. It only spanned a thousand feet.


    Beyond that range, Kong Xuan and Hou Yi cast their protective array barriers, enveloping a region that spanned a hundred thousand feet, but it was relatively weaker than the Misty Rain Array.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and company were alarmed. The attacker was invisible to the naked eye, and invisible to many probing means. All they sensed was an eruption of a terrifying aura from afar, followed by a loud rumbling in the array barrier''s periphery before the barrier shattered. A large rundown ship made of black wood appeared. It was in shambles, like a ship that had been in disrepair for ages.


    But at the moment the rundown ship crashed through the outermost array barrier, Qin Yun quickly enlarged the range of his Misty Rain Array.


    When it spread to eighty thousand feet, the Misty Rain Array crashed into the ship, causing it come to a halt. Even the Misty Rain Array quaked, looking like it would crumble at any time. Clearly, Qin Yun was going according to the plan by deliberately hiding his strength.


    "Haha, I nearly slammed the four of you to death? You sure are weak." A scoffing laughter sounded from the ship.


    "This ship." Qin Yun and company found the sinister aura emitted by the ship extremely terrifying.


    A total of nineteen gray chains flew out from the ship in the spatial tide. With a loud commotion, every chain became much bigger than the Misty Rain Array as they hurtled towards Qin Yun and company who were protected by the Misty Rain Array.


    "Retract!"


    Kong Xuan stood there as the Five-colored Divine Light flashed in the spatial tide.


    The huge ship vanished into thin air the moment it was enveloped by the Five-colored Divine Light.


    A huge ship? Gray chains? All of them vanished!


    All that was left was a figure in the spatial tide¡ªa white-dressed woman. She stood there in the spatial tide in a daze.


    "What happened to my Nine Netherworld Ship?" She was somewhat dumbfounded.

 683 Battling Empty-handed

    The Nine Netherworld Ship was the manifestation of a mysterious Nine Netherworld. It was an extremely important treasure for the white-dressed woman and more than half her strength stemmed from the ship. It got to the point where it was a part of her life after extended periods of cultivation. Yet, it had been snatched away today!


    "Was it you who snatched my Nine Netherworld Ship?"The white-dressed woman glared at Qin Yun and company from the spatial tide. To be precise, her eyes were fixated on Kong Xuan.


    "That ship of yours is mine now," said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    "The four of you sure are capable, but you will soon regret it." The woman''s gaze turned colder.


    Kong Xuan secretly sent a voice transmission, "I tried using my Five-colored Divine Light to capture her in one go, but all I managed to get was the ship. This woman¡­ is very unique. She''s not a body of flesh and blood, nor is she an Essence Soul. It''s a unique existence I''ve never seen before."


    "Special lifeform?" Qin Yun, Hou Yi, and Goumang were somewhat astonished.


    "You once took down the Buddhist Ancestor due to his carelessness. Yet, you have failed to take down this woman?" Goumang asked with a voice transmission.


    "Although the Buddhist Ancestor is powerful, he still has a body of flesh. However, this woman exceeds the properties of what my Five-colored Divine Light can capture," replied Kong Xuan.


    "She''s neither a body of flesh and blood, nor is she an Essence Soul; then what is she?" Qin Yun was puzzled as well.


    "This has really broadened my perspective." Hou Yi was similarly astonished as he turned even more serious.


    Although Kong Xuan had snatched the Nine Netherworld Ship, he did not dare act carelessly.


    Few could escape his divine power at his realm. It was truly rare.


    "Prepare to die, all four of you!" The woman flipped her hand as a blackish-red saber appeared. It suffused a staggering banal aura that alarmed Qin Yun and company.


    "Whoosh."


    The Five-colored Divine Light flashed.


    And with that, the woman''s saber vanished into thin air.


    "My saber¡­" The woman looked at this scene in a daze and was instantly filled with grievance and rage.


    Most importantly, her Nine Netherworld Ship had been snatched!


    The Demon Saber she had just obtained had been snatched the moment she held it in her hand!


    These were two treasures that gave her the greatest help.


    "You can continue trying. Produce another three or four treasures. Perhaps, I might fail to snatch one of them away," said Kong Xuan with a laugh.


    "His treasure-snatching ability can only be cast three times a day. Take out a few more and he won''t be able to use it," said Goumang loudly. "Try taking out a few weaker treasures and give it a try. I''m not lying to you."


    The woman stood in the spatial tide and laughed softly. "Very well. Adept at snatching treasures. Your means are indeed rare. Don''t worry, I''ll kill the rest. As for you¡­ the one good at snatching treasures, I won''t kill you. I will make you wish you were dead."


    With that said, the woman suddenly lunged at the Misty Rain Array.


    She did not use any treasure, and simply relied on her body. As she lunged forward, her body grew in size rapidly. It became a gray aura tens of thousands of feet tall as it blanketed the Misty Rain Array.


    The Misty Rain Array suffered an invisible assault as grinding sounds were produced. However, once the Misty Rain Array was set up, the Heaven, Earth, and Man swords formed a world in and of itself. It completely isolated the inside from the outside.


    When the gray aura blanketed the Misty Rain Array, the array looked like it was on a verge of collapse, but it remained steadfast.


    "Her body is very unique, somewhat similar to Negative Karma Fire," said Qin Yun via voice transmission. "Of course, it''s more troublesome than Negative Karma Fire. That power blankets my Misty Rain Array in a bid to erode and destroy my Misty Rain Array. However¡­ she''s far from capable of doing so."


    "With Sword Immortal Qin here, there''s nothing for us to worry about." Kong Xuan smiled.


    "More troublesome than Negative Karma Fire? She''s that powerful even without treasures?" Goumang was secretly alarmed. "Let me test her out."


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Vines grew out of Goumang''s body as each vine easily extended out of the Misty Rain Array which gave it passage.


    More than ten vines extended towards the gray figure that stood tens of thousands of feet tall. The female face on the gray figure revealed a sliver of mockery.


    At the instant the vines touched the woman''s body, they immediately suffered the corrosive effect of her powers.


    "Oh?"


    Goumang''s expression changed.


    At a discernible pace, the vines began withering from the spot where they made contact with the woman. Although Goumang transmitted rich vitality towards the withering vines to rejuvenate them, the radius of the withering expanded.


    "No good. Her force is just too strange." Goumang immediately severed portions of his vines and retracted the healthy ones. He abandoned the withered parts.


    "She''s naturally extraordinary if my Five-colored Divine Light is unable to take her down," said Kong Xuan with knitted brows. "Let me try again."


    Kong Xuan took out a bottle as a blob of lustrous glow appeared and shot towards the woman.


    The beam was extremely incisive and at the moment it touched the woman''s massive body, the gray energies attempted to erode the lustrous glow, but the glow was vanquishing everything. It was constantly vanquishing the gray energies.


    "Oh?" The woman was somewhat surprised, and with a thought, all her gray energies turned ethereal.


    The beam of light could no longer touch the woman''s body.


    The lustrous glow tore through the woman''s body like it was passing through empty space. It was as if they were situated in different worlds.


    "I can''t touch her. It''s just like how my Five-colored Divine Light could not take her down before. Now, I can''t even touch her." Kong Xuan''s expression changed slightly. With a thought, the lustrous glow immediately flew back into his bottle.


    "Let me give it a try." Qin Yun was surprised as well. Kong Xuan''s and Goumang''s means were extremely powerful; yet, they could do nothing to her?


    Of course, Kong Xuan had done a great job.


    The ship and the saber had been snatched away! It forced the mysterious woman to only attack empty-handed.


    With a thought from Qin Yun, the Misty Rain Sword immediately conjured billions of sword beams.


    "Whoosh~"


    Instantly, billions of sword beams gathered and formed Streaming Dragon which shot towards the woman. Qin Yun had used this move when he was facing the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation, and it was also the strongest offensive move of the Misty Rain Sword at the moment.


    With a mere wave of her hand, the woman split off some gray aura that twirled around the Streaming Dragon.


    However, the Streaming Dragon was cast by a sword immortal''s Intrinsic Sword Array. It was formed by drawing on the mystical powers of the Pangu bloodline and was indestructible.


    "Puah Puah Puah¡­"


    The moment they clashed, the woman''s expression changed slightly. She looked at Qin Yun and said, "I never expected a half-step Primordial realm expert to be among the four of you."


    The Streaming Dragon and the gray aura began draining each other upon contact. One one side, the sharpness was unparalleled and indestructible, as though it wanted to destroy all powers, and on the other side, an extreme softness attempted to cause destruction through permeation. They were opposites of each other, but continued causing damage to the other. However, it could be seen with the naked eye that the gray aura was suffering more damage.


    After all, she was not relying on any treasures but herself.


    "However, your move is too boorish and crude. I do not wish to fight you, and you won''t be able to touch me." The woman sneered as her massive body''s energy turned even more obscure.


    Although the Streaming Dragon swirled around again and again, it failed to touch her, as if it was flying through the void.


    "She likely has the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm, but her body is very unique." Qin Yun dispelled his Streaming Dragon as he said via a voice transmission.


    "You can''t hurt me, but I can destroy your array formation. I can sense that your array formation won''t last long." The woman''s massive body enveloped the sword array. She had made the wrong judgment thinking she had a chance of cracking the array. After which, she could kill and capture her opponents. Most of her strength stemmed from the two treasures¡ªthe Nine Netherworld Ship and the Demon Saber¡ªso she naturally had to take them back.


    "Brother Hou Yi, we are all out of solutions," said Kong Xuan.


    "We are counting on you."


    Qin Yun and the other two had all made attempts. They were facing a power they had never encountered or even heard of before.


    Hou Yi nodded. "My arrow will deliver a direct hit the moment it''s shot. I want to see if she can dodge my arrow."


    He flipped his hands and produced an ancient but unadorned longbow in one hand and a golden arrow in his other hand.


    "It''s no use. You won''t be able to touch me if I do not permit it." The woman scoffed.


    However, Hou Yi continued pulling open his bow to a full draw before shooting out the arrow.


    Shoo!


    The arrow beam flashed and shot the woman outside the Misty Rain Array. Although her body was obscured, it still suffered a direct hit.


    "Oh?" The woman looked in alarm at Hou Yi. "Your arrow contains a force similar to mine. Unfortunately, your strength is still too weak, even weaker than the punk who cast the sword beams."


    In terms of strength, Hou Yi''s first arrow of his nine successive strikes was on par with Qin Yun''s Streaming Dragon.


    However, Streaming Dragon was equipped with "quantity" which allowed it to constantly harass and engage the enemy! Hou Yi only had one arrow which could not draw out a battle. Therefore, it was of lower threat to the woman.


    "Second arrow." Yet, Hou Yi flipped his hand and took out another arrow.

 684 Heart Force

    When Qin Yun saw that the woman was unable to dodge Hou Yi''s arrow, he knew that she was doomed!


    Out of Hou Yi''s nine successive arrows, the first arrow was the weakest, but that was because he was accumulating strength! Even Qin Yun had to ignite his Essence Soul to withstand Hou Yi''s ninth arrow.


    "Similar force?" Qin Yun thought. "Hou Yi has long made it public that the power he figured out is something known as Heart Force. It''s a different, special strength that''s independent from physical or Dharmic powers. However, just grasping the basics is extremely difficult."


    Qin Yun''s time was precious. He felt that he did not even have enough time to cultivate his Sword Dao; therefore, he naturally did not waste time cultivating "Heart Force" which was extremely difficult to grasp.


    Heart Force was a entirely different system separate from physical and Essence Soul Dharmic powers.


    Just grasping the basics or cultivating to the mid-stages of Heart Force¡­ was of little help to perfected Great Dao experts like Qin Yun. After all, Qin Yun was already an existence who was approaching Hou Yi in strength.


    "Once I transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations and obtain eternal life I can consider cultivating in Heart Force," thought Qin Yun. "The reason why Hou Yi is so strong is because other than normal Dharmic powers cultivation, he also cultivates in the Heart Force. By augmenting his archery with the Heart Force¡­ it causes the might of his archery to become extremely powerful, to the point of reaching the might of the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "However, it''s said that not more than ten people have cultivated the Heart Force to the third realm in the entire Three Realms! Hou Yi is the only one who has cultivated it to the level of a perfected Great Dao expert; what''s more, he''s the founder of this system," thought Qin Yun.


    The Heart Force lineage was just too difficult.


    ¡­


    "Swoosh!"


    "Swoosh!"


    Golden arrows streaked across the spatial tide. There was no way of hiding or dodging from even a single arrow. The woman who was tens of thousands of feet tall initially viewed the arrows with contempt, but soon, she turned alarmed.


    She had discovered that the might of the arrows were increasing exponentially!


    If the first arrow was said to damage her in the slightest, most trivial way, then the second arrow''s might was thirty percent stronger. However, the damage she incurred doubled. The third arrow''s damage on her rose severalfold¡­ As such, the might of the arrow gradually exceeded her limits. The damage inflicted on her was rising exponentially.


    "If my Nine Netherworld Ship was here, you wouldn''t have been able to injure me!" The woman roared angrily. She did not hesitate to transform into a stream of light and flee into the distance.


    She was escaping!


    "Will you be able to flee?"


    Hou Yi''s eyes were cold. He delivered the fifth arrow and with a flash, it struck the distant woman.


    The arrow was just too fast!


    As a sword immortal, Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword was far inferior in speed to Hou Yi''s arrows, not to mention that the woman was flying with her body alone. In the face of Hou Yi''s arrows¡­ the speed of flight was simply pathetic.


    "Ah." The fifth arrow quaked the woman''s body as it turned much dimmer.


    The immense increase in strength in the fifth arrow made the woman feel despair. "His arrows are growing stronger! Is there no end to it?"


    Even if it did not increase in strength, another two or three of the "fifth arrows" were enough to annihilate her.


    "Spare me," the woman immediately sent a voice transmission. "My treasure will all be yours. I can tell you information about this spatial tide. All I ask is for you to spare my life."


    Faced with an irresistible force, she chose to beg for mercy.


    However, the quartet ignored her pleas. Hou Yi continued shooting, delivering a more terrifying sixth arrow.


    The dazzling beam streaked across space. The woman desperately tried to dodge, but the arrow had hit her the moment that thought came to her. She let out a tragic scream and her body dispersed like bubbles. All that was left were some treasures floating in the spatial tide.


    "Retrieve." Kong Xuan waved his hand and pulled the treasures with his Five-colored Divine Light.


    "She even begged for mercy." Goumang shook his head. "Back when she sneaked up on us and wanted to kill us, she showed no mercy¡­ But the moment she realized she wasn''t our match, all she knew to do was to plead for mercy. Too late!"


    Kong Xuan laughed as well. "And she wanted to give us information? Would we dare believe the information she gives us? Who knows if she might deliberately misrepresent things and scheme against us."


    Qin Yun and company had no plans on entrenching themselves in the spatial tide for extended periods of time. They were only here on a expedition. They did not have any desire for so-called information that they couldn''t even trust.


    "Where''s her corpse?" Qin Yun frowned.


    "She doesn''t have one," said Hou Yi. "Her power is very similar to my Heart Force. However, my Heart Force is purer, while her power is more chaotic and evil¡­ I''m guessing that she is a unique life formed from the power of the soul and reached her present realm after a long period of cultivation. She does not have a body, so killing her wouldn''t leave behind a corpse."


    Qin Yun felt somewhat frustrated.


    "Brother Qin came to the spatial tide for the corpses of other-universe experts so that he can sacrifice them to the Three Realms," said Kong Xuan with a smile. "Yet, he came out empty-handed. However, we received quite a bit of her treasures. We can give some of the treasures to Brother Qin."


    "Yes, give some of the treasures to make up for Qin Yun''s loss," said Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "There''s no need."


    At this point, there were increasingly few treasures that aided him.


    "That won''t do. We can''t just take advantage of you like that," said Goumang.


    "When out adventuring, fairness is very important," said Hou Yi.


    "If you discover anything that can be useful to an Itinerant Immortal like me, or helpful to my transcendence of the tribulations, then give it to me," said Qin Yun. "I won''t take anything else."


    Kong Xuan smiled. "Let''s see what treasures she left behind."


    With that said, he flipped his hand.


    The rundown ship appeared, floating in the middle of the spatial tide. It looked very ordinary.


    However, Qin Yun and company could tell at the glance that it was only so on the surface. In fact, there was a massive pocket world within.


    "This Nine Netherworld Ship contains a world inside," said Kong Xuan. "If my judgment doesn''t fail me, this world had countless living beings in the past. Now, they have all been reduced to their fundamentals. This Nine Netherworld Ship''s might is rather evil and also good at defense. If one were to hide in the ship¡­ an enemy''s attack will have to first crack open the Nine Netherworld Ship''s obstruction before the owner inside can be injured."


    Hou Yi nodded in agreement. "This Nine Netherworld Ship is a Connate Cardinal treasure that''s very suited to that woman. If she had the Nine Netherworld Ship with her, it would probably take my eighth or ninth arrow to kill her."


    "Without the Nine Netherworld Ship and that saber¡­ her strength did get halved. She probably felt aggrieved at the moment of her death."


    "That''s all I''m capable of," Kong Xuan said with a smile. Following that he began searching through the treasures when he was suddenly taken aback. Following that, he looked at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, you sure are lucky."


    Qin Yun replied in astonishment, "I''m lucky?"


    "Look."


    Kong Xuan waved his hand and a massive corpse the size of a hill appeared. The corpse had a head that resembled a mountain goat''s. It had red eyes and it wore black scaled armor all over. Its body emanated a banal and evil aura.


    "This corpse and this saber share nearly identical auras," said Kong Xuan as he picked up the blackish-red saber and looked at the massive body. "Perhaps this saber was this corpse''s, but he was killed by the woman. Let''s leave the corpse to Brother Qin Yun. You won''t be rejecting it, right?"


    "No, not at all." Qin Yun was already grinning widely. He was overjoyed for the corpse was obviously powerful.


    While the four were splitting up the treasures, three extremely tiny "worms" were lurking within the spatial tide. The worms were one with the spatial tide, so be it Qin Yun, Hou Yi, Goumang, or Kong Xuan, who was best at domains, none of them could detect the worms.


    The three worms secretly followed behind Qin Yun and company.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere in the spatial tide, there was a massive floating island which spanned five thousand kilometers across. It was a Small World in and of itself.


    Deep in the island stood a magnificent palace.


    A silver-armored man walked into a hall and bowed respectfully. "Island Lord."


    At the throne right at the top of the hall, a figure appeared out of thin air. It was a white-haired man wearing loose robes. He looked down at the man.


    "Island Lord, Fifth Supremacy is dead," said the silver-armored man respectfully.


    "I can sense that''s she''s dead." The white-haired man nodded. "How did she die?"


    "My three spatial worms have been tailing her all this while. She encountered four experts from another universe. One on one, none of them are Fifth Supremacy''s match. But among them is someone who is good at snatching treasures. He''s not strong, but the way he snatches treasures is strange and unpredictable. He snatched the Nine Netherworld Ship and other treasures from Fifth Supremacy, so she was forced to enter the battle empty-handed. Even so, most half-step Primordial realm experts would not be able to injure her."


    "Three of the four other-universe experts similarly can''t injure her. However, the fourth uses a bow and arrow and was able to injure her. After shooting six arrows, he killed Fifth Supremacy."


    The white-haired man nodded slightly after being briefed. "Killed after only six arrows? That''s not considered strong, but he can be of use. As for the one that snatches treasures, he''s quite unique. What about the other two?"


    "The other two are somewhat mediocre and won''t catch your eye," said the silver-haired man.


    The white-haired man nodded. "In that case, arrange for Third Supremacy and his men to be sent. Capture alive the one good at snatching treasures and the archer. As for the other two? Since they are mediocre, just kill them."

 685 Myriad Flower Palace

    Moments later.


    On the other side of the island, a stocky figure sat cross-legged by a stream. The figure''s back had a row of spikes and six curved black horns on his head. While sitting there, the surrounding space slowly collapsed and then slowly restored.


    He sat there silently.


    Once upon a time, he was an existence that countless worlds feared in his homeland; his name enough to make deities tremble. Although he was invincible in his homeworld, he felt that he was just short of understanding the Heavenly Dao, Myriad Objects, and their interactions. To seek a breakthrough, he came to the spatial tide in search or stronger opponents.


    He was indeed powerful as he became a hunter in the spatial tide. He hunted beings from other universes and sought out the cultivation systems these beings cultivated in.


    However, he was eventually subdued at the hands of the Island Lord, and from then on, his life was completely controlled by him.


    A once supreme existence who shook entire worlds had been reduced to such a state¡­


    "Brother Mochen." A silver-haired man came to the side of the stream and smiled at the stocky figure.


    The stocky figure looked up as a formless, domineering aura inundated the silver-haired man. He could not help but falter as he thought to himself, "To have his body cultivated to the half-step Primordial realm sure is terrifying."


    Primordial realm.


    The beginning of everything; the source of the universe.


    The Primordial realm had different names in different places. It was known as the Heavenly Dao realm in the Three Realms.


    "Is there a reason why you are looking for me?" asked Mochen indifferently.


    "Fifth Supremacy is dead," said the silver-haired man with a smile. "Island Lord has ordered that you bring your men to kill those murderers."


    "How could she die when she has the Nine Netherworld Ship?" asked Mochen.


    "Fifth Supremacy encountered four experts from another universe¡­" The silver-haired man recounted the situation. "That was what happened."


    Mochen scoffed. "She did not escape immediately after having the Nine Netherworld Ship snatched from her? Did she really think that the enemy couldn''t injure her due to her unique powers? Only when one''s body is truly powerful can one be considered powerful. Just relying on having unique powers is fatal once one encounters an enemy who''s strong against them."


    "Yes, yes," concurred the silver-haired man. "Brother Mochen doesn''t rely on external objects and has an invincible body. Killing them would naturally be easy for you."


    "Didn''t I still end up being subdued by the Island Lord?" said Mochen indifferently.


    "How many in the spatial tide can match Island Lord?" said the silver-haired man with a laugh.


    Mochen remained silent.


    Island Lord¡­


    He was a monster! An unfathomable monster. Despite having cultivated his body to the half-step Primordial realm, he was still completely trounced by the Island Lord.


    "Island Lord wants you, the Third Supremacy, to set off immediately," said he silver-haired man. "I will tell you in real-time where the four experts are via spatial worms. By the way, the one that''s good at snatching treasures and the one good at archery are to be captured alive. After all, they are of use to Island Lord. The others are mediocre and can be killed directly."


    "Alright." Mochen stood up and immediately sent a voice transmission command. "Five of you, set off with me."


    Soon.


    Mochen led five subordinates and rapidly departed the island on a silver flying boat.


    ¡­


    The silver flying boat was specially refined by the Island Lord and was meant for flying in the spatial tide. Among the numerous Supremacies under the Island Lord, only the first three were bestowed with such a flying boat.


    The flying boat traveled at abnormal speeds, tens of times faster than Qin Yun and company. It was indeed quite frightening.


    In a blink of an eye, the silver flying boat traveled for more than two years.


    It was very common to spend two to three years traveling in the spatial tide.


    Mochen stood at the bow of the flying boat as he looked coldly at the endless spatial tide. Behind him were his five subordinates who were waiting reverently.


    "Whoosh." A spatial worm appeared above the flying boat and manifested the projection of a silver-haired man. He said with a smile, "Brother Mochen, I''m here to tell you something."


    "Speak," said Mochen coldly.


    "From the trajectory the four experts are taking, they are likely headed for Myriad Flower Palace," said the silver-haired projection. "You should know that Island Lord has always been hoping to capture the Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. However, his life-preservation skills are just too potent, and it''s constantly neighboring a Chaos spatial rift. He can flee into it at any time which makes it difficult for Island Lord to capture him."


    "What are you implying?" Mochen narrowed his eyes.


    "Capturing Palatial Lord Myriad Flower is worth ten credits," said the projection with a smile. "You will only get three credits from dealing with the four other-universe experts. From my point of view, you can first rush to Myriad Flower Palace and hide. Let the four fight Palatial Lord Myriad Flower and then take action when the opportunity arises."


    A glimmer flashed in Mochen''s eyes. "Ten credits¡­"


    "If you could capture Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, giving up the four other-universe experts would be worth it," said the silver-haired man.


    "Yes." Mochen nodded. "I''m aware of what I should do."


    Credit was very important to him. Credits were a currency set by the Island Lord which could be used to exchange for various benefits. If he amassed a hundred credits, they could be exchanged for his freedom!


    ******


    Qin Yun and company continued on their journey in high spirits after splitting the treasures. They were headed for their first target.


    As for the owner of the Nine Netherworld Ship¡­ she was never in the plans, so for her to suddenly appear in a bid to kill them, they naturally got rid of her in passing.


    "We have been away from the Three Realms for twelve years. We will soon arrive at our first destination," said Goumang with a smile. "There''s very little information about this target, and the only thing we know is that it''s an other-universe expert with immense charms. Even perfected Great Dao experts would be influenced by his allures."


    "Alarming allures usually mean that he cultivates in charming means," said Hou Yi. "The means available to him would be mostly strange and unpredictable, but that would mean that his direct combat means are weaker."


    "If he has strange means, we will be relying on Brother Kong Xuan," said Qin Yun with a smile. "No matter what treasures he uses, we will take them first. Immediately, his strength will be halved."


    "There are some treasures that are impossible for me to take," said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    "Don''t be careless. He might be stronger than we expect," said Hou Yi.


    The four of them conversed amid laughter, apparently filled with confidence.


    Sword Immortal Qin''s protective means matched with Kong Xuan''s domain allowed them to fend off a Heavenly Dao realm existence. With them in an invincible state, they naturally could have the patience to find the weakness of their opponents and finish them.


    "We''ll be reaching soon," said Kong Xuan suddenly.


    Qin Yun and company looked into the distance.


    Although they were still rather far away, with the journey still needing another two hours, their eyesight allowed them to see a palace floating in the spatial tide. It was enveloped in a pink barrier of light.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company were about to arrive at Myriad Flower Palace.


    Inside the palace, a red-dressed man with astounding charms was leaning on a column weakly. He was looking at a sea of flowers in front of him inside the palace.


    "I''ve failed again," the man muttered.


    "I''m good at array formations to begin with and have been studying arduously in the spatial tide. Just my array formations alone have reached the half-step Primordial realm, and that''s considered rare in the entire spatial tide. It''s probably not easy to find someone better than me, but I''m still unable to crack this mountain valley and enter it.


    "Despite being able to see it, I just can''t enter it.


    "Cracking the array formation either needs great mastery with array formations, or overwhelming force. Perhaps to crack it by overwhelming force, I''ll need to produce strength at the Primordial realm before having a chance of entering the valley. But if an existence of that nature were to enter the valley, none of the treasures inside will be mine." The red-dressed man shook his head. "The memento that points me to this valley is in my hand. Only I can find this valley. I can slowly wait."


    "I''ll definitely think of a way to enter the valley."


    The man closed his eyes and began thinking of solutions to enter the valley.


    "Oh?"


    The red-dressed man suddenly opened his slender eyes.


    "Enemies are approaching, and four at that?" The man sneered. "Very well. My Myriad Flower Palace can have more fertilizer now."

 686 Give Up?

    "They''re here."


    Mochen''s stocky figure stood at the bow of the silver boat. His five subordinates stood behind him as a silver-haired man''s projection pointed far into the distance. "They will soon arrive at Myriad Flower Palace.


    "Palatial Lord Myriad Flower is adept at array formations, so he has long set up formations inside Myriad Flower Palace," said Mochen indifferently. "Even I''d suffer if I were to enter. Not even me, even if Island Lord were to take action personally¡­ If Palatial Lord Myriad Flower is bent on hiding and escapes through the Chaos spatial rift if things go awry, Island Lord would not be able to do anything to him.


    "As long as the four other-universe experts aren''t foolish, they will not rush into the array formation to send themselves to their deaths," said the silver-haired man''s projection with a laugh. "If they do not enter, Palatial Lord Myriad Flower will have to take the initiative to come out. He might be afraid of Island Lord, but he''s not afraid of those four. There''s a high chance of him chasing after them. If he does indeed come out to fight the four experts¡­ perhaps there might be a chance for you to take them all down!"


    They were also holding out a sliver of hope.


    After all, from their point of view, Kong Xuan''s treasure-snatching means were indeed impressive; it was something even Island Lord thought highly of.


    With this ability and the addition of his three companions, they would likely give Palatial Lord Myriad Flower trouble.


    "What if they act arrogantly and confidently charge in?" asked Mochen softly.


    "Then there''s nothing we can do about it."


    The silver-haired man shook his head. "To dare charge into Myriad Flower Palace? Then, the four of them are as good as dead. Our trip would have been for nothing."


    Mochen looked at the distant Myriad Flower Palace and fell silent.


    His faction had long wanted to deal with Palatial Lord Myriad Flower and had launched numerous assaults before; therefore, they knew how terrifying the palace''s interior was.


    "I hope they aren''t that dumb," said the silver-haired man''s projection with a laugh.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company were approaching Myriad Flower Palace.


    "This palace?" Qin Yun observed carefully. He was quite accomplished when it came to array formations. The Misty Rain Array was his highest attainment, so when he saw the massive palace in front of him, the setup of the palatial complex and the myriad of flowers that bloomed everywhere in it made Qin Yun feel that something was amiss.


    He attempted to penetrate it with his Misty Rain domain, but was stopped by the faint halo at palace''s surface.


    Without being able to penetrate the halo, they could only make judgments from the surface.


    "Brother Kong Xuan, did you notice something amiss?" inquired Qin Yun.


    Among the four present, when it came to attainments in array formations, Qin Yun was considered pretty good, but Kong Xuan was truly formidable! He mastered the Great Dao of the Five Elements and had studied other Great Dao over the years. He had accumulated deep insights and had become the best at domains under the Heavenly Dao realm in the Three Realms. In terms of array formation attainments, that was extremely high. Perhaps only Human Sovereign Fuxishi was superior to him. Even Emperor Polestar''s attainments in array formations were about his equal.


    "Is there a trap?" asked Goumang.


    Kong Xuan said with a smile, "This palace screens probing from the outside. Even my domain cannot penetrate it. But just from its surface, I am certain that there''s an array formation inside the palace, one that''s extremely terrifying. The array formation attainments of the owner of the palace exceed mine. If we were to rashly barge in, we would only be falling into a trap! If we aren''t lucky, we might be trapped without being able to escape¡­ With good luck, perhaps Hou Yi can crack open the array formation with overwhelming force. We might then have a chance of killing the palace owner."


    "Cracking the array by overwhelming force will depend on luck." Hou Yi nodded. "If the array formation is heavily layered, it will take me too much time to crack the array. We would then be doomed."


    "Yes, there''s a Chaos spatial rift beside the palace," said Kong Xuan. "It can''t be a coincidence that this palace floats right beside it. If my guesses are correct¡­ the Chaos spatial rift leads to the homeworld of the palace''s owner. If we were to fall into the array formation''s trap, even if we can protect ourselves with Sword Immortal Qin''s sword array, the enemy can control the palace and return to his homeworld with us in thes palace. Once we enter our opponent''s homeworld, who knows if a few Heavenly Dao realm existences might appear to deal with us."


    Qin Yun and company nodded.


    Just like if an enemy were to head to the Three Realms, they would also suffer the wrath of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor and company. If the palace were to bring them into the palace owner''s homeworld¡­


    It was really very likely that Qin Yun and company would perish.


    "What else can we do?" asked Goumang.


    "This palace is his nest, his residence in the spatial tide. He will definitely spare no effort in setting up numerous powerful arrays." Kong Xuan shook his head. "It would be too rash if we were to enter just like that."


    "Yes, I''d rather give up than enter directly," said Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun nodded. "We can continue searching for other targets."


    The array formations inside the palace left them wary.


    The Chaos spatial rift beside Myriad Flower Palace struck fear in them.


    "We are already so near to the palace. With the owner''s attainments in array formation, he must have discovered us," said Kong Xuan. "Let''s deliberately appear to give up and leave immediately! It''s possible that the owner will pursue us. As long as he leaves the palace, we''ll have the chance to finish him."


    "What if he doesn''t pursue us?" asked Goumang with a smile.


    "Then we can only leave for real," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Let''s go."


    Qin Yun and company immediately stopped proceeding and turned to leave!


    "They''ve begun escaping?"


    Inside Myriad Flower Palace.


    The red-dressed man looked out of his palace and frowned. "My array formation is hidden amid the flowers. My attainments in array formations are also profound enough. There''s no way to see through it! Yet, these four cultivators actually discovered the threat and chose to leave. From the looks of it, they have people among them who are good at array formations.


    "It''s rare to encounter four prey, so I can''t just give up." A cold glimmer flashed in the man''s eyes. It took a very long time to encounter a cultivator from another universe in the vast spatial tide, much less four at a time.


    "My array formation can be used to probe the surroundings. They are the only four in the vicinity. Even if that Island Lord is lurking far away, I will be able to flee in time even if he appears." The man was very confident.


    As a half-step Heavenly Dao realm expert who was good at array formations, he naturally had a variety of means. Furthermore, his life-preservation skills were famous.


    Sou!


    The man took a step and exited Myriad Flower Palace.


    "He''s out."


    Qin Yun and company who were about to leave came to a sudden halt as they turned to face the red-dressed man.


    He stood in the spatial tide with a branch in hand. There were pink flowers on it which made the branch resemble a peach branch.


    "He''s out!" Hidden far away on a silver boat, the eyes of Mochen and the silver-haired man''s projection lit up. Their faction had attempted to deal with Palatial Lord Myriad Flower numerous times, but were also acutely aware that the Myriad Flower Palace was able to survey its surroundings¡­ Therefore, they had hidden in a spot just beyond the surveillance zone.


    "I wish the four of them will be able to restrain Palatial Lord Myriad Flower for just a moment." Mochen wore a look of anticipation. "As long as they can restrain him and prevent Palatial Lord Myriad Flower from escaping into the palace immediately, we''ll be able to take action."


    "Let''s hope so. Although the four of them can''t be considered powerful, their means are rather unique." The silver-haired man also looked forward to the outcome.


    Ignoring everything else, just having an array formation that reached the half-step Primordial realm was enough to catch Island Lord''s eyes.


    To him, array formation attainments at the half-step Primordial realm were a lot more useful than Qin Yun and company.


    ¡­


    "Gentlemen, why are you in such a hurry to leave?" The branch-wielding man smiled as it exuded a formless charm. "It''s so rare to encounter one another in the spatial tide. We come from different universes and can simply sit down and have an exchange over different cultivation Dharmic formulation and experiences. What do you think?"


    A formless wave swept past the four.


    It was a power that the Misty Rain Array was unable to fend off, for the formless wave contained a special power that allowed it to sweep across Qin Yun and company.


    Qin Yun, Goumang, and Kong Xuan felt their Essence Souls quiver. Instantly, they found the red-dressed man in front of them extremely familiar. However, their Dao hearts were extraordinary, so they were prevented from being directly entranced by him.


    "You have the nerve to talk about having an exchange about cultivation Dharmic formulations when you use a charming attack the moment we meet?" Hou Yi said coldly. "To take such an action, we wouldn''t dare have an exchange with you."


    Hou Yi''s voice swept towards Qin Yun and the other two with a formless power, instantly jolting them awake.


    "How terrifying it was," said Goumang via a voice transmission. "It''s like drinking the finest wine that leaves me intoxicated with a few sips."


    "Despite knowing that we are under its effects, my Essence Soul still quivered," said Kong Xuan via a voice transmission.


    "Our Dao hearts are still lacking," echoed Qin Yun.


    The three of them were extraordinary.


    One of them was the number one sword immortal of the Three Realms, while the other two were experienced experts from the other generation who were not far from the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Yet, they were still influenced.


    Despite knowing that they were spellbound, they were unable to control themselves.


    This naturally made Qin Yun and company apprehensive.


    Thankfully, Hou Yi was around!


    "From the looks of the, the Heart Force Dharmic formulation does have its unique features. If I were able to transcend the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation, I can attempt cultivating the Heart Force Dharmic formulation," thought Qin Yun.


    "Oh?"


    The red-dressed man looked at Hou Yi in astonishment. He could sense the formless wave that Hou Yi emanated to the surroundings. It caused his charms to be screened.


    "Hahaha, it''s just because it was rare for me to meet cultivators from another universe and to meet four at once. I was a little agitated and was eager to invite the four of you to have an exchange," said the red-dressed man. "Please pardon me for my anxiousness. Gentlemen¡­ why don''t you come to my humble abode? We can sit down and have a slow discussion. Wouldn''t that be nice?"

 687 The Despairing Palatial Lord Myriad Flower

    "We wouldn''t dare join you," said Hou Yi.


    The red-dressed man shook his head gently. "That''s nothing I can do then." As he spoke, he gently waved the branch in his hand. Although there were only a few pink flowers on the branch, thousands of flowers flew out from his casual wave. Instantly, the surrounding space began to warp.


    "Collect!"


    At the moment their opponent waved, Kong Xuan shouted.


    The Five-colored Divine Light flashed out of the spatial tide and swept across the red-dressed man. To his astonishment, the flowering branch he held in his hand vanished into thin air.


    "What?" Mochen and the other experts who were lying in wait to benefit from the skirmish had changes in expression.


    "How is it possible!?"


    "It was taken away without leaving any way to resist?"


    "It was snatched away upon their meeting?"


    They were somewhat in disbelief. They had no doubts about Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s strength; after all, even Island Lord was unable to take him down in person! Now, his item had been snatched from him without any warning?


    ¡­


    Kong Xuan''s Five-colored Divine Light was famous in the Three Realms. Even Buddhist Ancestor, Gautama, had been taken down out of carelessness once despite being at the Heavenly Dao realm. Of course, he escaped immediately after.


    "Boom!"


    Kong Xuan''s Five-colored Divine Light quaked the surroundings before suddenly cracking apart. The red-dressed man escape with a grotesque expression. However, his hands were empty. After having his flowering branch taken by Kong Xuan, he had no means of finding it again.


    Kong Xuan was in no way surprised seeing him escape. He said via a voice transmission, "This Five-colored Divine Light of mine can snatch dead objects rather easily, but to do it on the living¡­ especially a perfected Great Dao expert, it''s only possible to repress their strength and can hardly be used as an imprisonment."


    Qin Yun, Hou Yi, and Goumang were rendered speechless when they heard that.


    To take down a perfected Great Dao existence upon meeting?


    If he could do that¡­


    Kong Xuan would probably be recognized as a half-step Heavenly Dao realm. His might would even be above that of Hou Yi and Qin Yun.


    However, it was clear that enhancing such heaven-defying means was very difficult.


    "It''s really a nice ability." After the red-dressed man retreated, he stared angrily at Kong Xuan and immediately flew outwards.


    He was very careful to begin with. He planned on attacking without straying too far from Myriad Flower Palace.


    However, after his item was snatched by the Five-colored Divine Light, he was still not far from Qin Yun and company despite escaping. He was also very far from Myriad Flower Palace.


    "You want to escape?" Goumang immediately produced vines from his body that streaked across space and went straight for the red-dressed man.


    Hua!


    The Five-colored Divine Light domain was still repressing him!


    Under the domain''s repression, the red-dressed man''s strength had weakened by twenty to thirty percent. Against Goumang''s dozens of vines that enveloped the surrounding space, the red-dressed man did not dare act carelessly. He immediately flipped his hand and held a long whip with both hands.


    "He definitely wouldn''t be able to snatch my Roots of the World if I clasp them tightly." Just as this thought flashed in the red-dressed man''s mind, a flash appeared in the Five-colored Divine Light domain.


    The Roots of the World in the red-dressed man''s hands vanished!


    As he looked at his empty hands and the dozens of vines that came hurtling at him, the man was pushed to the brink of insanity. "I have to fight them empty-handed?"


    He knew himself well.


    As an expert in array formations, he needed to spend more effort to fight enemies in close combat. However, his close-combat strength was inferior to the half-step Primordial realm. To fight his enemies empty-handed¡­ he would no doubt die if the four other-universe experts were to join forces!


    The red-dressed man had another thought as sixteen stone slabs appeared in front of him. They were filled with strange patterns that formed a world in and of itself. It began to protect his surroundings.


    "Collect." With a thought from Kong Xuan, the sixteen stone slabs vanished.


    "How can that¡­" The man revealed a maniacal look. He waved his hand again as nine black flowers surfaced.


    "Collect."


    The nine black flowers vanished as well.


    After the man had his Roots of the World, the stone slabs, and the black flowers taken away in succession, Goumang''s vines had already arrived in front of him, giving him no time to take out other treasures. Furthermore, each of the treasures he took out were weaker than the preceding one. The nine black flowers were already unable to aid him much.


    "Why is this happening?" The red-dressed man could only flail his hands and produce two red beams of light to protect himself.


    However, the vines quickly twirled around him, each having extremely powerful strength. As buckling sounds were heard, the red light that surrounded the red-dressed man quickly cracked.


    "How did I find myself in this state?" The man could hardly believe it himself. His protective move was completely cracked open as vines began binding him.


    "Ahhhh!"


    He roared as his expression turned even more grotesque. His skin began to flush red all over.


    Boom!


    His body exploded, but beams of sanguine light flew in every direction! Each sanguine line moved at extremely fast speeds. They were also of great strength. Even in the Five-colored Divine Light domain, their speeds still left Qin Yun and company somewhat astonished.


    Qin Yun commanded with his mind. "Seal."


    The Misty Rain Array expanded suddenly.


    It expanded to envelop an area five thousand kilometers across, completely trapping the escaping sanguine light within.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!!!


    As the beams of sanguine light struck the Misty Rain Array, the array remained as deep and imperturbable as a dark sea. It churned a little before withstanding the impact.


    "Why is this happening?"


    The dozens of sanguine light beams were scattered everywhere as they formed a manifestation of the red-dressed man''s figure.


    All of them wore looks of despair.


    He was best at array formations! Yet despite that being his main talent, he was not give a chance to use any artifacts for the setting up of an array formation? All he could do was face his enemy empty-handed? Furthermore, he was being ganked?


    "Brother Kong Xuan''s Five-colored Divine Light is truly powerful. There''s nothing it can''t snatch away," said Qin Yun with a laughing voice transmission.


    "Qin Yun, your flying sword is an Intrinsic Flying Sword. It''s one with your Essence Soul, so snatching your flying sword is equivalent to containing your Essence Soul. It''s impossible to snatch it away," said Kong Xuan via a voice transmission. "Hou Yi''s bow and arrow are similarly immune to my ability when he injects his Heart Force into them."


    "However, weapons of most perfected Great Dao experts can be taken by you," said Hou Yi with a voice transmission.


    "However, they all know my means, so few of them will fight me with their weapons," said Kong Xuan with a voice transmission.


    Indeed.


    When perfected Great Dao experts met Kong Xuan, they would put away their weapons and would rather fight him empty-handed.


    Thankfully, other than Kong Xuan''s impressive domain means, his close combat strength was only considered average among perfected Great Dao existences. Therefore, the fear he struck in others wasn''t ludicrous.


    But even so, Kong Xuan was publicly recognized as one of the few who was close to the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    He was recognized enough for Qin Yun to specially invite him on this trip to the spatial tide.


    In a one-on-one battle, Kong Xuan''s abilities might not be the most terrifying, but when supporting Hou Yi and Qin Yun¡­ the help he gave was immense! It was more help than the Ancestral Dragon or Amita could provide.


    The vines separately captured the dozens of sanguine light avatars easily.


    "He can''t escape." Goumang laughed. At that moment, more than half the sanguine light avatars had been imprisoned by his vines. Only three sanguine light beams were still escaping with great difficulty. But where could they escape to when trapped inside the Misty Rain Array?


    ¡­


    On the silver flying boat, Mochen and his five subordinates, as well as the silver-haired man''s projection were watching, dumbfounded.


    They had guessed that the Palatial Lord Myriad Flower would chase after the quartet to attack them.


    However, they never expected¡­ how one-sided the battle was!


    "The one who is good at snatching treasures is of higher value than Palatial Lord Myriad Flower," muttered Mochen. "Not only is he good at snatching treasures, he can also capture experts. Even Palatial Lord Myriad Flower was captured by him. If I were able to capture him, Island Lord will give me at least ten credits. He can''t be worth less than Palatial Lord Myriad Flower."


    "Quickly take action. After he''s caught alive, it won''t be too late to negotiate with Island Lord," said the silver-haired man''s projection. "However, be careful. You can''t use any treasures when attacking. The one who''s good at snatching treasures is just too formidable. He can practically snatch every treasure possible."


    "Don''t worry. I do not need any weapons." Mochen gave the command. "Go!"


    Sou!


    The silver boat immediately zoomed towards Qin Yun and company silently.


    They were finally taking action after sitting along the sidelines!

 688 Experts From Bohan Island

    "I''m doomed." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s final sanguine light avatar was trapped by the vines.


    Following that, the might of each and every vine erupted.


    Bam! Bam! Bam!!!


    Restrained avatars instantly exploded into smithereens in succession from the tightening grasp, leaving behind only a single avatar. Furthermore, Dharmic powers were injected into this avatar, rapidly sealing whatever strength it had.


    "They are sealing me of my strength even when I only have one avatar left? They are really careful and aren''t giving me any chance of escaping." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower was surprisingly calm at that moment. Since he had chosen to hunt in the spatial tide and prey on experts from other universes, he was long prepared¡­ to one day die at the hands of an enemy.


    "Oh?" Palatial Lord Myriad Flower suddenly turned his head to look in the distance. A silver flying boat was rapidly approaching.


    "It''s Bohan Island." A thought came to Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    He shouted urgently, "The experts on that flying boat come from Bohan Island. You aren''t their match!"


    "Bohan Island?" Qin Yun and company had also noticed the approaching boat; however, they had never heard of Bohan Island.


    "As long as you agree to spare me, I can give you information on Bohan Island. I even know the experts on the boat as well as vital information about them," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower eagerly. "I can also bring you to hide inside Myriad Flower Palace to avoid the pursuit of Bohan Island. I only have one request¡ªspare me!"


    "Spare you?" Goumang shot him a glance.


    "Bohan Island? Never heard of it!" said Hou Yi as well, his tone filled with confidence.


    They were obviously filled with confidence. They showed no fear towards any assault from powerful enemies; instead, they felt anticipation.


    "Qin Yun, be careful," Hou Yi exhorted. Although he sounded confident, he still warned Qin Yun. Qin Yun was crucial in their defense against enemies!


    "Don''t worry." Qin Yun carefully made preparations as he made the Misty Rain Array envelop their surroundings, spreading the domain outwards.


    Kong Xuan''s Five-colored Divine Light domain also enveloped a vast region.


    When the silver boat got right next to the Five-colored Divine Light domain, it stopped. Six figures flew over after the flying boat was put away.


    "They have been hiding in a corner and know of Kong Xuan''s means," said Goumang solemnly. "Furthermore, there are six of them. We must not be careless."


    "The more the merrier. The more enemies there are, the more treasures we will get when killing them," said Kong Xuan with a laugh. "After this round, we probably can make our way back."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    He had obtained an expert''s corpse when dealing with the owner of the Nine Netherworld Ship.


    Now that Palatial Lord Myriad Flower was captured alive, the sacrifice of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm expert¡­ would receive more merit from the Three Realms. Just him alone was probably sufficient merit for him to attain his Merit Cardinal treasure.


    Furthermore, there were now six additional ones in front of him!


    "It''s as the saying goes¡ªthe clueless knows no fear." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower secretly shook his head when he saw this scene. "To not even have heard of Bohan Island, they will soon be begging me when they end up suffering."


    "Set up the array!" Mochen bellowed.


    Although the five experts behind him remained silent, their bodies emitted a glow as the surface of their skins suffused array formation patterns. The five experts raised the array formation with their bodies making up the array¡­ Immediately, faint white light enveloped half a million kilometers, easily repelling the Five-colored Divine Light domain and Misty Rain domain.


    "That Island Lord has unfathomable strength. His attainments in array formations exceed even mine. The moment this array formation domain is released, even half-step Primordial realm experts would have their strength reduced to only thirty to forty percent," thought Palatial Lord Myriad Flower secretly.


    The array formation''s purpose was to create a massive domain to suppress the enemy. By reducing the enemy''s strength drastically, it made escape more difficult.


    "Oh?" Although the Misty Rain Array protected their surroundings, the white domain continued seeping in as it enveloped Qin Yun and company.


    The quartet felt their bodies turn heavy; it was extremely oppressive.


    "It''s a domain." Qin Yun wore a nasty expression. "It''s more powerful than Brother Kong Xuan''s Five-colored Divine Light domain. It can penetrate anything and suppress every spot. My Misty Rain Array can withstand other means, but it cannot block this domain from infiltrating."


    Domains were best at infiltration.


    However, very few domains could infiltrate Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array.


    "The domain can only suppress us." Hou Yi stared at the five experts who were powering the array. "Using their bodies to set up the array? As long as one of them is killed, the array formation domain will crumble."


    "Boom." From afar, Mochen charged over.


    In the domain''s envelopment, he even had the confidence to enter a bout with a Primordial realm expert.


    "You four, submit yourselves." Mochen''s body phased and grew to a height of a hundred thousand feet. His potent aura quaked the surrounding space as it was fully released. It alarmed Qin Yun and company.


    "This other-universe expert''s body is in no way inferior to the Ancestral Dragon''s. He''s another half-step Heavenly Dao realm expert of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage?"


    People of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage were well-known to be powerful and difficult to deal with.


    Yet, they had met one in the spatial tide.


    "It''s been a while since I''ve fought." Mochen smiled sinisterly as he extended his palm which brought with it powers that could destroy everything. Even the space surrounding his palm began the process of annihilation.


    "Boom!"


    A palm print struck the Misty Rain Array which shook gently, completely withstanding the blow.


    "Oh? It held. This array formation is quite interesting." Mochen thought nothing of it. He was confident that he could crack the array formation in front of him.


    He often cracked the Dharma with overwhelming force.


    "Swoosh!"


    An arrow beam shot out.


    It shot out of the Misty Rain Array and made Mochen turn his head. With a glance, he saw that the arrow beam had hit one of the envoys responsible for the array. However, the envoy had streams of light swirling over his body, fully blocking the blow.


    "The arrow is rather fast, but it''s useless. We have long refined our bodies that they are like weapons. We have the array formation protecting us. You won''t be able to crack it." Mochen thought nothing of it as he turned back to continue attacking the Misty Rain Array.


    "Annihilate!"


    Mochen growled softly.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    He struck out palm after palm and, in a blink of an eye, he delivered ninety-nine strikes. To release all his strength in such a short span of time made the might extremely terrifying. It caused the surrounding space to warp into darkness.


    "In terms of strength, it''s almost that of the combined forces of Fate''s thirty-plus controlled subordinates." Qin Yun was secretly alarmed. "However, be it him or Fate, their full-powered blows are not concentrated. As for Hou Yi''s arrow¡­ its might is focused."


    Mochen had the combination of ninety-nine palm strikes while Fate had the combined attacks of thirty plus subordinates.


    Their strength naturally could not be focused.


    "Whoosh." The dark and deep Misty Rain Array continued churning as it diverted all the impact away.


    "Oh? It still holds?" Mochen''s face fell. As he looked into the Misty Rain Array where Qin Yun was, he said, "From the looks of it, we made a wrong judgment and belittled this array formation of yours."


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    At that moment, Hou Yi had already shot his fifth arrow.


    He did not shoot at Mochen, but at the five envoys who were powering the array.


    "His arrow''s might is increasing," one of the envoys could not help but say. The fifth arrow was already sufficiently powerful.


    "Can you hold out?" asked Mochen with a voice transmission.


    "It''ll be hard to tell if his arrows continue to increase in strength," replied the envoy with a voice transmission.


    Mochen''s pupils constricted. He knew very well that even with him attacking at full force, he would spend ten minutes before having a chance of killing one of the five envoys while they powered the array. And that was under the premise that the five envoys did not flee!


    "Begone!" Mochen grew in size again, turning more hideous. He appeared to have black dragons coiled around his body as his palm turned increasing incisive.


    He burned his blood and pushed his powers to his limits!


    He released ninety-nine palm strikes again at the Misty Rain Array.


    Every palm appeared ordinary, but they were filled with a mystical charm upon more careful inspection. Combined together, the ninety-nine strikes formed a fusion array that blasted at the Misty Rain Array.


    "Rumble~"


    With Mochen releasing all his strength, he caused the Misty Rain Array to quake and rumble.


    "It still holds?" Mochen wore a nasty expression. He had already done his best to no avail. That meant that he was probably unable to crack it. "The intelligence is ridiculously wrong. It even said the other two are very mediocre? My failure is all because of that array formation expert." If he ended up charging in, Qin Yun was basically invincible when coupled with the domain''s suppression.


    If he could not even crack the array formation, let alone being able to touch Qin Yun and company, how was he to capture them alive?


    "Whew!"


    Hou Yi''s seventh arrow shot out, striking one of the five envoys.


    The envoy failed to withstand the blow as his chest was instantly penetrated. He lost his life immediately, causing the array formation to dissipate. The other four envoys had drastic changes in expression as they did not hesitate to flee in every direction possible! The five of them were responsible for setting up an array. With one gone¡­ their attendance was meaningless.


    "Escaping? Do you think you can escape?" Hou Yi drew his bow and strung four arrows at a time.


    Whew Whew Whew Whew!


    The four arrows shot out at the same time.


    They streaked across space and flew in different directions. Instantly, they struck the four envoys who had their bodies penetrated instantly due to the lack of the array formation''s protection. All of them had their vitalities snuffed out as they died on the spot.


    The five envoys were all dead.


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    The Five-colored Divine Light domain enveloped Mochen.


    "You are the only one left." Hou Yi drew his bow once again as he looked at Mochen.


    Mochen felt the suppression from the domain, but showed no fear. All he did was shoot a glance at the five envoy corpses floating in the spatial tide. "The five of you were completely controlled by Island Lord, losing even your free will. You were nothing but puppets of Island Lord! Now that you are dead¡­ I guess you are free."

 689 Success

    "Swoosh!"


    An arrow beam struck Mochen, but even the skin on his stocky body did not rupture.


    "It''s time to leave." Mochen understood that since he could not crack the Misty Rain Array, it was pointless for him to stay. It was even possible that he would end up being trapped if he was careless.


    Boom!


    He immediately transformed into a stream of light that fled into the distance.


    "Trying to flee?" Goumang grunted coldly as vines streaked across space from every direction. While Qin Yun was casting the Misty Rain Array, he condensed billions of sword beams with a thought, turning them into a streaming dragon! This Streaming Dragon sword beam headed straight for Mochen.


    "Open!"


    Mochen was extremely capable at close combat. Even under the Five-colored Divine Light domain''s suppression, he was still able to easily deal with the enemy despite the negative influence on his strength. He waved his hands casually and swatted away the vines and blocked the Streaming Dragon sword beam.


    Although he managed to fend off the numerous attacks, his flight was a lot slower.


    Qin Yun and company easily followed behind him.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Hou Yi shot one arrow after another, unwilling to burn his Essence Soul Dharmic powers! Just the normal nine successive arrows were sufficient.


    "Oh?" Mochen was quite confident in the beginning, but he soon realized that the arrows were increasing in strength exponentially. Furthermore, the arrows were so fast that there was no way for him to dodge.


    After being struck by the seventh arrow, Mochen''s massive body was sent flying backward. A wound appeared in his resilient body, but the wound quickly healed. The injury was nothing of consequence.


    The eighth arrow caused Mochen''s expression to change. Although he was a hundred thousand feet tall, a bloody hole was torn open at his chest. A terrifying annihilative force seeped through his body in a bid to destroy his soul even though the bloody hole wasn''t large.


    "How is it this strong?" Mochen was somewhat alarmed. "This arrow has really injured me."


    "The ninth arrow!"


    Qin Yun, Kong Xuan, and Goumang watched carefully.


    "This is Brother Hou Yi''s ninth arrow," exclaimed Kong Xuan in a voice transmission. "If we were to take it with our bodies, we would have long been reduced to nothing."


    "The ninth arrow is a lot more powerful than the eighth arrow." Qin Yun had experienced the arrows before personally.


    Boom!


    A dazzling arrow beam appeared.


    The first eight arrows were constantly accumulating in strength, and only when the ninth arrow was formed did all its might was released. It caused a qualitative change to the might of the arrow, allowing it to reach the Heavenly Dao realm instantly.


    "No good." Faced with the might of the ninth arrow, Mochen revealed a look of alarm and anger. He tried his best to block the beam with his palms, completely ignoring Qin Yun''s Streaming Dragon sword beam and the vines.


    The arrow beam flashed.


    Mochen''s palms hit nothing, for the arrow was just too fast.


    A hole bored right through Mochen''s glabella and flew out from the back of his head.


    The annihilative powers contained within the arrow permeated Mochen''s entire body as it ate at his soul.


    This was an arrow that contained Hou Yi''s Heart Force! It was also his strongest arrow under normal circumstances.


    "Ah!" Mochen let out a painful cry as his expression warped. The hole at his glabella healed but the glow in his eyes dimmed.


    "If his next arrow is stronger, that arrow would kill me in one shot." Mochen felt fear. He had traveled the spatial tide for years and was basically invincible thanks to his powerful body, other than being subdued by the Bohan Island Lord. But today, he felt the threat of death.


    But the Five-colored Divine Light domain, and the flailing vines and Streaming Dragon sword beams were pestering him, causing his speed to slow drastically.


    "Forget it."


    Mochen waved his hand as a silver flying boat appeared.


    Despite knowing that the enemy was good at snatching treasures, he still wanted to give it a try! After all, without the silver boat, there was no way he could escape.


    "Whoosh." It happened just as he powered the silver boat.


    "Collect." Kong Xuan naturally caused the Five-colored Divine Light to flash with a mere thought. The silver boat vanished.


    "It was really taken away?" Mochen originally was taking his chances, thinking that perhaps being the one steering the boat¡ªone that the Island Lord refined himself¡ªhe would be able to¡­ withstand the treasure snatching move? If he could prevent the silver boat from being snatched, there was a chance of escaping.


    "There''s no way to escape."


    Mochen''s heart chilled.


    "Swoosh!"


    Another arrow beam shot over. It had returned to the strength of the first arrow that couldn''t even rupture Mochen''s skin. It took Mochen by surprise as he came to a realization. "So that arrow was his strongest strike. He must have paid quite a considerable price to deliver that blow. I still have a chance."


    Mochen continued flying away with all his might, withstanding Qin Yun, Kong Xuan, and Goumang''s pestering while blocking Hou Yi''s arrows.


    ¡­


    Shooting the arrows nine consecutive times did not burden Hou Yi in any way. If he wished to ignite his Essence Soul Dharmic powers immediately, he could release a terrifying barrage of attacks, killing Mochen in a few strikes.


    In the Three Realms, no one dared to allow Hou Yi to shoot his arrows.


    The nine arrows were a cycle.


    Mochen withstood it pathetically as he fled.


    His injuries worsened and every ninth arrow inflicted severe damage to his soul.


    "Doesn''t he pay a price at all for using this archery skill?" Mochen felt despair.


    After he got struck by the fifth "ninth arrow," Mochen stopped fleeing.


    "I rose up from a tiny city and left a wake of bones in my journey. All who opposed me died¡­ I was invincible in my homeworld. In my invincible loneliness, I thought of finding opponents and wished to break through to the stronger Primordial realm." Mochen looked at the ninth arrow that came at him as scenes of his life surfaced in his mind. "While fighting with experts from other universes in the spatial tide, I''ve hunted many. I was then subdued by Bohan Island Lord and lost my freedom. Now, I''ll be losing my life. Perhaps, I was already dead when I was caught and controlled.


    "In the past, I was the one who brought despair and death to other lives.


    "Now, it''s the enemy''s arrow that is bringing death to me.


    "The killer will eventually be killed."


    Mochen closed his eyes as he faced the arrow.


    When the arrow beam bored through his glabella, the terrifying Heart Force it contained destroyed Mochen''s soul. His already weak soul was still annihilated despite having a powerful body to protect it.


    Mochen, the Third Supremacy of Bohan Island, was dead!


    "E-even the Third Supremacy has been killed by them." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, who had his strength sealed, watched the scene with an agape expression. "The Third Supremacy is the Supremacy with the strongest body under Bohan Island Lord. His body had reached the half-step Primordial realm, yet he has been killed. Doesn''t that imply that the might of that arrow can reach the Primordial realm?"


    There had long been talks about this in the spatial tide.


    Half-step Primordial realm existences of the physical lineage were known as immortal bodies. No move under the Primordial realm could kill them. One had to attain the strength of the Primordial realm before they could be slain.


    With Mochen dead, it implied that the arrow had reached the strength of the Primordial realm!


    "The four of them are truly powerful." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower looked at Qin Yun and company. "The archer actually has a move at the Primordial realm''s might. Third Supremacy was unable to destroy the array cast by that guy. And there''s the one who''s good at snatching treasures."


    Back when he was captured, Qin Yun and Hou Yi had not even revealed their strengths! Just Kong Xuan and Goumang were sufficient to take him down.


    "I do deserve my downfall." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower sighed.


    "To need Hou Yi to shoot so many arrows before he''s killed. This body sure is impressive," said Kong Xuan with a laugh as he put away the treasures that appeared after Mochen''s death. As for Qin Yun, he put away Mochen''s massive body while grinning from ear to ear. The body of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm expert wasn''t something he would sacrifice.


    If he needed to sacrifice¡­


    He had obtained a corpse from the owner of the Nine Netherworld Ship as well as the five corpses of the envoys who set up the array formation. Just two or three of them were enough to amass enough merit.


    The merit which came from Mochen''s corpse provided little help to Qin Yun. It would be of greater use if it could be used elsewhere.


    "In the future, Master and company will be forced to leave the Three Realms. When that happens, Mochen''s corpse will be invaluable," thought Qin Yun in delight.


    "Brother Qin Yun, this body cultivator''s most precious thing is his body. You sure made a killing," said Kong Xuan.


    "With his strength, he should be at the Connate Cardinal treasure level," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "If we were to offer Connate Cardinal treasures in exchange for it, would you be willing?" asked Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun smiled. "Since we made a previous agreement, it shouldn''t be changed."


    Connate Cardinal treasure were very valuable, with only dozens of them in the Three Realms. There were even a few perfected Great Dao experts who lacked one. But for figures at Qin Yun''s or Hou Yi''s level, having an additional Connate Cardinal treasure or two did not increase their strength much. On the contrary, this corpse was the only one in the Three Realms, making its value a lot higher.


    Ignoring everything else, just the cultivation of such a body required a price far greater than a single Connate Cardinal treasure.


    The Three Realms also only had one Ancestral Dragon. And it was also because of him that dragons appeared as a major race.


    "Let''s go to the palace," Kong Xuan said with a smile. "Let''s take all the treasures."


    "After we split the treasures, we can return," said Goumang happily.


    "It''s about time to return." Qin Yun and Hou Yi agreed as well.

 690 Secret of the Mountain Valley

    Inside Myriad Flower Palace, Qin Yun, Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and Goumang were enjoying the fine wine as they split the treasures. Strictly speaking, Qin Yun was just watching the other three split the treasures.


    "Just do as we agreed upon previously. The corpses of other-universe experts will be Brother Qin Yun''s. As for the remaining treasures¡­ Hou Yi will get half. The remaining half will be split equally between me and Goumang," said Kong Xuan with a smile. "Everyone is aware of what treasures there are, so feel free to say what you want."


    "I want that silver boat," said Hou Yi.


    "Then I''ll take the Nine Netherworld Ship," said Goumang.


    "Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s tree branch will be mine," Kong Xuan said with a chuckle.


    They were in an extremely good mood.


    The had reaped immense benefits on this expedition; just the Connate Cardinal treasures alone reached six! They were the Nine Netherworld Ship, Demon Saber, the silver boat, the branch, the Roots of the World, and Essence Fiend Column. It was a weapon of Mochen''s, but as he was afraid of Kong Xuan''s treasure-snatching ability, he hadn''t used it.


    Even while he was fleeing, he did not use it since it wasn''t meant for defense. When Qin Yun checked the Mochen''s remains, he discovered this huge Essence Fiend Column.


    There were also other treasures of all sorts.


    After all, Qin Yun and company had dealt with three half-step Heavenly Dao realm experts who were hunters that entrenched themselves in the spatial tide for ages. The loot they received was naturally astounding.


    Compared to Fate, all Qin Yun and company did was kill three of the envoys who were under Fate''s control. If they had killed Fate himself¡­ the rewards they received would be astounding.


    ¡­


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s strength was completely sealed as he sat silently to the side and watched his captors split the treasures.


    "All my years of treasures gained from killing other-universe experts are all gone," thought Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "The memento that allows entry into the mountain valley has been taken by them as well. However, they can''t identify the memento or know what''s special about it."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower felt vexed.


    The treasures that he had relied on had been snatched. Even his fate was in the hands of the four people in front of him.


    "Brother Qin Yun, are you envious?" Kong Xuan quipped.


    Qin Yun sipped at his wine. "Don''t mind me. Take your time splitting the treasures."


    Goumang laughed. "Just say it if there''s anything you want. It''s all negotiable."


    "Right, Brother Qin Yun, you can use the corpse of that expert for exchange," said Kong Xuan with a chuckle.


    "As long as you are willing to exchange that half-step Heavenly Dao expert of the physical lineage''s corpse, I will offer any of these treasures for your consideration," said Hou Yi as well.


    Qin Yun continued drinking as he ignored the jesting.


    "We are done splitting the treasures," said Kong Xuan. "We sure reaped quite a good harvest this time. Shall we return now?"


    "Yes." Hou Yi nodded. "I have a nagging feeling that the ones who came to kill us were specially targeting us. Touch pitch and you shall be defiled. Although we aren''t weak, who knows if we might meet someone who''s perfectly suited to deal with us. Let''s return before that happens. Brother Qin Yun still needs to transcend the tribulations."


    "The six come from Bohan Island." The sealed Palatial Lord Myriad Flower finally spoke. "Regardless if they were targeting you or not, by killing experts from Bohan Island, they will definitely not let the matter rest."


    "Won''t let the matter rest?" Qin Yun and company looked at him.


    "The one with the extremely strong body is the Third Supremacy of Bohan Island," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower with a scoff. "There are a total of nine Supremacies under Bohan Island Lord. They are all about the same strength as the Third Supremacy and are good at various skill sets."


    "What? Nine?" Qin Yun and company were somewhat alarmed.


    "Are you so easily frightened?"


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower scoffed. "Bohan Island''s strongest entity is the Island Lord! Bohan Island Lord is one of the strongest existences in this vast spatial tide. He has reigned supreme in it since time immemorial and is truly invincible. Those Supremacies were all captured by him to do his bidding as their lives are in his hands. Some other-universe experts end up refined into puppet weapons, just like the five envoys who were responsible for setting up the array¡­ They no longer have any free will and were simply weapons.


    "Bohan Island has nine Supremacies, seventeen Combat Generals, fifty-two envoys. All of them are under the Island Lord''s control," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "And from what I know, Island Lord''s strength is probably equal to that of the true Heavenly Dao realm."


    Qin Yun and company were astounded when they heard that.


    "How is it possible?" Goumang refused to believe. Even Hou Yi''s offensive means reached the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. A real Heavenly Dao realm existence had a lot more means available to them.


    "Why is it not possible?" Palatial Lord Myriad Flower scoffed. "You claim it''s impossible just because you haven''t seen it?"


    "Only those beneath the Heavenly Dao realm can enter the spatial tide. No matter how strong the Island Lord is, he''s not at the Heavenly Dao realm," said Kong Xuan solemnly.


    "You have to know that all the powerful subordinates he has were all caught alive by him. Without sufficient strength, how could he capture them alive? For example, the four of you had to work together to slay the Third Supremacy. You were unable to capture him alive," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "However, he can. Furthermore, he has captured many! There were many other-universe experts that were of no use to him, so they were directly killed."


    Qin Yun and company exchanged looks.


    Yes.


    Mochen''s body was extremely powerful and impossible to restrain or imprison! All they could do was rely on Hou Yi''s arrows to slowly shoot him to death.


    Just capturing Mochen alive and being able to determine his fate was something that left Qin Yun and company wary. Furthermore, there were a total of nine Supremacies.


    "By killing the Third Supremacy, you will definitely garner the attention of Bohan Island Lord. He will soon come personally," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "As long as you kill his subordinates, it''s impossible to escape Bohan Island''s pursuit. They have special tracking abilities.


    "As long as you agree to let me live," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower with a smile. "I''ll help you. I''m good at array formations. As long as I control Myriad Flower Palace, I''ll be able to keep him embroiled in battle. With the four of you defending¡­ we will hold the absolute advantage inside Myriad Flower Palace. I believe we would be able to survive."


    He was an array formation expert at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. He was able to make full use of his terrain advantage while in his lair.


    "You can leave a contingency in my soul," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "I wouldn''t dare betray you."


    "Help us?" Qin Yun and company exchanged looks.


    "Yes, I''m willing provide you will the fullest extent of my help as long as you are agreeable and let me leave after this," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "I just want a promise from you. Of course, you will have to give me a few ordinary array formation treasures to protect myself."


    At their level¡­


    They would not easily make a binding agreement for they had to deliver on their promises.


    Be it in the Three Realms or the other universes¡­ the weak could lie without any qualms. However, the stronger one was, the more attention they had on their promises. Only experts of very rare cultivation systems could lie blatantly.


    However, Palatial Lord Myriad Flower believed that the four would not break their promise if they made it. To have all four break their promise was just too improbable.


    "This silver boat has astounding speed. Our homeworld''s Chaos spatial rift is rather nearby," said Kong Xuan with a smile. "We can immediately return by taking the silver boat! I believe this so-called Bohan Island Lord will need time to rush here. We would probably be back before he reaches us.


    "When we are back in our homeworld, let''s see if this so-called Bohan Island Lord will dare continue his pursuit!" Kong Xuan scoffed. "As for you? We will bring you along with us. If Bohan Island Lord really chases up to us, we can give you a chance to live then."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower had a nasty expression.


    Return as fast as possible?


    The silver boat was indeed fast, and could possibly allow them to escape safe and sound. Then, he would be of no use. He would then become meat on a chopping board when he entered the homeworld of the four experts.


    "Let''s leave quickly. This Bohan Island doesn''t appear to be something we should mess with," said Goumang.


    "Hold on."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower said through gritted teeth, "I know the location of Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley."


    Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley?" Qin Yun and company were somewhat puzzled.


    "What''s that?" inquired Kong Xuan.


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower did not leave them hanging as he said immediately, "Those who are in the know after prolonged traveling in the spatial tide would typically have heard the legend of Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley. It''s a mysterious mountain valley hidden in the spatial tide. It draws upon the strength of the spatial tide and grows three types of divine fruits that can drive any expert crazy for them."


    "The three divine fruits are Soul Heart Fruit, Chaos Origins Fruit, and Spirit Enlightening Fruit," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "They sound ordinary, but they had extremely magical effects. A Soul Heart Fruit can instantly restore one''s soul. Even if one burns their soul to the point of requiring deep sleep, just consuming one Soul Heart Fruit would be sufficient to rejuvenate one to their peak condition.


    "While fighting with enemies while burning the soul, a Soul Heart Fruit can allow one to burn their souls twice in a life-and-death battle.


    "The Chaos Origins Fruit is even more magical! As long as one consumes it, they can nurture a second avatar without causing any damage to themselves," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "You should know that typical avatar arts would damage the person in question. But this Chaos Origins Fruit allows one to produce an avatar of equal strength without causing any damage. This is akin to having a second life!"


    "The Spirit Enlightening Fruit can allow one to have an epiphany immediately. It will allow one to benefit greatly. Those who are stuck at bottlenecks would have chances of breaking through to a higher realm after consuming one Spirit Enlightening Fruit.


    "These three divine fruits are coveted by all the experts in the spatial tide."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower ended with the following: "And I can lead you there!"

 691 Desire

    Three divine fruits?


    Qin Yun''s heart began racing when he heard of the first divine fruit, the Soul Heart Fruit.


    "An opportunity for my transcending of the tribulations is here!" Qin Yun was thrilled. There was only one way to push his strength to the limit¡ªignite his Essence Soul Dharmic powers! Back when he sparred with Hou Yi, he had to burn his Essence Soul Dharmic powers while casting his Misty Rain Array to withstand Hou Yi''s ninth arrow.


    However, the expenditure required to burn his Essence Soul Dharmic powers when withstanding such a terrifying blow was immense.


    And the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation was probably much stronger than Hou Yi''s attack. Burning his Dharmic powers would be an even faster expenditure which he was likely unable to maintain for long.


    "If I were to obtain a Soul Heart Fruit, I could burn my Essence Soul a second time. If I have a handful of them, I''ll be able to be restored to my peak every time. I''ll be able to go out the same number of times," thought Qin Yun "My chances of transcending the tribulation would be much greater!"


    As for the other two divine fruits, the Chaos Origins Fruit and the Spirit Enlightening Fruit¡­


    Qin Yun only had one thought¡ªthey were very helpful to transcending the tribulation as well!


    The Chaos Origins Fruit needed little elaboration. It was equivalent to a second life! Although his avatar would still have to endure the tribulations, it was a second life. It could also burn its Essence Soul Dharmic powers to power the Misty Rain Array.


    The Spirit Enlightening Fruit would allow experts like Qin Yun to enter an epiphany directly. That made it very magical, for even the mystical items in the Three Realms such as the Myriad Dharma Essence Liquid only supplemented cultivation.


    If he were to consume the Spirit Enlightening Fruit and have another rise in realm, his Misty Rain Array''s might would rise as well¡­ That way, the chances of him transcending the tribulation would naturally be greater. Qin Yun knew very well that Hou Yi, Ancestral Dragon, and Amita were all very close to the Heavenly Dao realm, but he was only of average caliber among the perfected Great Dao existences. It was his Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure that allowed him to have the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao existence.


    With his realm foundations relatively low, it implied that Qin Yun had a lot of room for improvement.


    After he consumed the Spirit Enlightening Fruit, any improvement he had would come much easier than it would to Hou Yi or the Ancestral Dragon.


    "All three of the divine fruits are very useful for me." Qin Yun could not resist the urge.


    "These three divine fruits¡­" Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and Goumang all had various thoughts about it.


    From Hou Yi''s point of view, the three divine fruits were extremely alluring. The Spirit Enlightening Fruit gave him the chance of breaking through to the Heavenly Dao realm. The other two divine fruits were useful for him to be more threatening when fighting his enemies. Something that allowed him to have a powerful avatar was a treasure unheard of in the Three Realms.


    Qin Yun and company stared at Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    He smiled and said, "The mountain valley that grows these three divine fruit is a legend in the spatial tide. Almost every expert is crazy for it. I believe the four of you wish to obtain them as well."


    Qin Yun and company exchanged looks and determined each other''s intentions.


    Indeed, all of them wanted the three divine fruits!


    As for the threat from Bohan Island?


    They were already very confident with their alliance. Having just obtained numerous treasures, and with the help of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm expert in array formations, what would they be afraid of?


    "You can lead us in?" inquired Kong Xuan.


    "Yes." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower nodded. "I obtained a memento of the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley. With this memento, one can enter the mountain valley. I''ve been there once, but I''m unable to crack the mystical array formation within. I can bring you in, and with your companion''s archery skills, he might be able to crack the array formation with overwhelming force."


    "Memento?" Qin Yun and company looked at Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    "You took all my treasures. Among them is an inconspicuous item. That is the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley''s memento," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    Hou Yi and company were enlightened.


    If he had not informed them, they would not have identified it.


    Soon.


    They found the memento which was a aqua blue talisman token.


    "I can do my best to bring you there," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, "but you have to guarantee that you will allow me to leave after everything is over. You will also have to return me the Myriad Flower Palace and the Myriad Flower Tree. If I were to travel the Chaos spatial tide empty-handed, I''ll be doomed if I encounter enemies."


    "The Myriad Flower Tree is that branch?" asked Kong Xuan.


    "That''s a treasure I have been using all this while," he replied.


    Kong Xuan and company exchanged looks and discussed over voice transmissions.


    "We won''t be able to give you the Myriad Flower Tree. If you wish to live, just hide in the Myriad Flower Palace. Why would you need a weapon?" Kong Xuan said. "We can agree to give you the Myriad Flower Palace and allow you to leave safely after everything is over."


    "I need treasures. You need to give me either the Myriad Flower Tree or the Roots of the World," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "If not, I''d rather not take you there."


    "Hmph, do you really think we need you?"


    Kong Xuan scoffed. "Bohan Island Lord''s threat is unpredictable. We were planning to first return to our homeworld first. As for the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley¡­ we can slowly figure it out with this memento. We can always go in the future. Furthermore, if we were to bring you to our homeworld, there will be Heavenly Dao realm seniors there that could take good care of you and even search your Essence Soul memories.


    "Soul searching?" Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s expression turned nasty. He clenched his teeth and said, "Alright. When the time comes, return me the Myriad Flower Palace and allow me to leave safely."


    All treasures could be abandoned when one''s life was at risk.


    Qin Yun and company exchanged looks and smiled.


    They were only making empty threats. In fact, searching the soul of a perfected Great Dao existence was very difficult. Perhaps even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor of the Three Realms were incapable of doing so.


    "By the way, you mentioned that Bohan Island has an unique tracking method," asked Qin Yun.


    "Yes."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower said, "Anyone that is targeted by Bohan Island has no way of escaping the tracking. Even for me, every time I''ve visited Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley after I obtained the memento¡­ I''ve had to return to my homeworld through the Chaos spatial rift, and then enter through another Chaos spatial rift in my homeworld. That is a spot much further than Bohan Island''s sphere of influence. I then secretly head for Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley without alerting Bohan Island."


    "You head there through another spatial rift in your homeworld?" pressed Kong Xuan. "Then, wouldn''t it mean that a great distance needs to be traversed if we set off from here?"


    "Yes, but with the silver boat''s speed, we will just need a little more than a hundred years," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    Kong Xuan, Hou Yi, and Goumang heaved a sigh of relief.


    They were not in a rush for time, but Qin Yun was. Furthermore, Qin Yun was the most important person among the four. When faced with all kinds of strange dangers, they required Qin Yun to withstand them. Without Qin Yun, they did not dare risk their lives in the spatial tide.


    "It will take about two hundred years for a round trip. There''s plenty of time," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "Then, shall we go?" Hou Yi asked.


    Qin Yun nodded. "The three divine fruits are very helpful to my transcending of the tribulation. As for the splitting of the treasures¡­ We won''t be able to split it like previously."


    The previous allocation had Qin Yun obtaining the corpses of other-universe experts. He did not take a single treasure.


    But this time, he needed to have a share of it.


    Kong Xuan smiled. "Haha, don''t worry. The mountain valley grows divine fruits. There aren''t any other-universe corpses! The three of us aren''t that shameless to split the treasures and make you take such a risk for nothing."


    "Our trip will involve facing the dangers within the mountain valley and the possible pursuit of Bohan Island," said Hou Yi. "We will need Brother Qin Yun to help us. As for the treasure allocations¡­ The treasures we obtain will be split into three. Qin Yun and I will each receive one portion. The remaining can be split equally by Kong Xuan and Goumang. How about that?"


    Kong Xuan and Goumang exchanged looks and quickly nodded.


    The allocation was about the same ratio as before, and they knew very well¡­


    Against ordinary enemies, their presence wasn''t of much importance. Qin Yun and Hou Yi could easily eliminate them together.


    But against truly powerful enemies¡­


    The suppression from Kong Xuan''s domain was likely of little use. Against Bohan Island Lord, or someone who was stronger in array formations and domains, Kong Xuan''s only purpose was to provide shock and awe! It would prevent the enemy from using treasures. Perhaps at the Island Lord''s strength¡­ he was confident of using his treasures without having them snatched away?


    As for Goumang? His main responsibility was to entangle the enemy. At the critical moment, he would hold the enemy back and even sacrifice himself. It was to ensure that Qin Yun and the other two had a chance to live.


    Although their contributions were needed, they were still of a lower precedence.


    Qin Yun and Hou Yi were critical!


    One was to ensure their safety!


    The other was to kill!


    "Since we have agreed upon it, let it be so," said Hou Yi. "As for Bohan Island Lord, we''ll just have a good battle with him if he comes."


    "Let''s not waste any time and set off now," said Kong Xuan.


    "Let''s move out!"


    Soon.


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower stored away the entire palace and followed Qin Yun, Hou Yi, and company into the silver boat.


    "Head in that direction." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower pointed. The silver boat immediately rushed forward at a speed tens of times faster than Qin Yun and company''s slow flight. Even so, they still required more than a hundred years to reach the valley¡ªa testimony of its distance.

 692 Island Lord and Mountain Valley

    Bohan Island''s fame was far-reaching. In a vast area in its sphere of influence, the hunters that entrenched themselves in the spatial tide either had life-preservation means akin to Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s or they had already submitted to Bohan Island.


    The reason why Bohan Island could have such might¡­ was solely due to a single existence¡ªBohan Island Lord.


    "You are mad! Are you going to destroy your entire clan for an other-clan woman?"


    "Sacred Lord, is it worth it to do so? Is it?"


    "Master, I don''t want to die, please¡­"


    Voices sounded one after another.


    On Bohan Island, a white-haired man was leaning against a huge tree, seemingly asleep, when he suddenly opened his eyes.


    "I dreamed those scenes again." The white-haired man muttered to himself. "Lan Sheng is dead, then the entire world has to be silent. Once everyone is killed, they would no longer disturb her. How nice it would be to make the entire world Lan Sheng''s grave."


    His homeworld¡ªit was a massive world that had all its life obliterated.


    It was the doing of Bohan Island Lord.


    "Lan Sheng, do you know that not long after your death, I figured out the mysteries of the Primordial realm. However, I repressed my strength and entered the spatial tide by keeping myself beneath the Primordial realm. I did it to seek out different cultivation Dharmic formulations and mystic arts from different universes. There are also various kinds of so-called resurrection arts. I have tried them all, but I''ve failed to revive you.


    "Billions of years of longevity equals billions of years of torture," the white-haired man muttered. "When will this torture come to an end? When will you be resurrected?"


    The white-haired man suddenly sensed something.


    "The Third Supremacy is dead?" The white-haired man was very calm. Few things in the spatial tide could alarm him. The Third Supremacy was merely a minion of his, a mere tool he used to capture other-universe experts.


    "Island Lord." A silver-haired man walked from afar to the tree''s side. He bowed reverently. "The Third Supremacy and the five envoys have all perished."


    "How did they die?" asked the white-haired man.


    "The five envoys had set up an array to suppress the enemy. Third Supremacy Mochen tried his best but failed to crack the sword array," said the silver-haired man. "As for the one that''s good at archery, he used his seventh arrow to kill an envoy and took 45 arrows to kill Third Supremacy."


    The white-haired man nodded slightly as a glimmer suffused his eyes. "The other-universe expert that casts the sword array isn''t to be underestimated. But as for the one good at archery¡­ his arrows must have reached the might of the Primordial realm if he can kill the Third Supremacy. However, it is odd he spent seven arrows to kill an envoy, but 45 arrows to kill Third Supremacy. Clearly, only some of his arrows are considered powerful. That means that the occasional few arrows have the might of the Primordial realm.


    "Interesting.


    "The one good at snatching treasures can snatch treasures of experts one after another.


    "The one good at the sword array can resist the Third Supremacy''s all-out attack.


    "And there''s one good at offensive means who is capable of releasing strength at the Primordial realm.


    "If these four other-universe experts come from the same universe, then their cultivation system must be interesting." The white-haired man''s eyes had a look of anticipation.


    The silver-haired man asked reverently, "Island Lord, how do we deal with them?"


    "I shall take action personally," said the white-haired man with a smile.


    The silver-haired man revealed a look of delight. "This matter is as good as done with you taking action."


    The white-haired man nodded.


    He wanted the lives of the four experts. Similarly, he wanted the cultivation systems of their world!


    "Island Lord, they have obtained the Third Supremacy''s flying boat. They are moving at extremely fast speeds," the silver-haired man could not help but say. "Of course, my spatial worms are tailing them."


    "Then I shall set off now," said the white-haired man.


    Soon.


    The same kind of silver boat left Bohan Island, with only the white-haired man on board.


    However, the boat he steered had been refined with greater effort, so its speed was thirty percent faster than Qin Yun''s flying boat!


    Just nineteen years later, the white-haired man''s silver boat caught up to Qin Yun''s.


    "Island Lord, they are up ahead," a projection of the silver-haired man conjured by a spatial worm said reverently.


    "I''ve flown for nineteen years. The distance covered is already immense," said the white-haired man. "If they were returning to their homeworld, they would have long arrived. It''s unlikely that they would travel so far as newcomers to the spatial tide."


    Indeed.


    If not for the silver boat, just the distance alone would see Qin Yun and company flying for more than a thousand years.


    Bohan Island Lord had made preparations. If the four experts first returned to their homeworld, he would permanently station a few spatial worms at the Chaos spatial rift that Qin Yun and company used to leave! The next time they entered, they would be discovered immediately.


    But it turned out that¡­ that the four experts had traveled for nineteen years without end.


    "They have been avoiding several hunters along the way," said Bohan Island Lord with a laugh. "They aren''t engaging anyone but just rushing somewhere. If not for their homeworld, where?"


    "Island Lord, they captured Palatial Lord Myriad Flower alive," said the silver-haired man''s project reverently. "According to my spatial worms'' observation, it seems like Palatial Lord Myriad Flower is leading them."


    "Oh?"


    Intrigued, Bohan Island Lord said, "Keep watching and let''s see where they are going."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and company did not even sense that a silver boat was following them. After all, the distance was so great that it went beyond their detection range.


    "Bohan Island Lord''s strength is unfathomable. He will definitely exact revenge. A stronger force will soon chase up to us," warned Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    "Since we made the decision, all you need to care about is forging our continuous path ahead," said Hou Yi.


    "We will adopt the necessary measures depending on the situation! No matter how unfathomably powerful he is, his Dharmic powers must have stopped just beneath the Heavenly Dao realm. In terms of strength, he should still be a distance away from the Dao Ancestors and the Buddhist Ancestor," said Kong Xuan. "As long as there''s a difference, the four of us combined will be able to engage in a skirmish."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower thought to himself, "When you witness the might of Bohan Island Lord, you will be in a hurry to seek my help."


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged in the flying boat.


    The journey required more than a hundred years; therefore, he focused on cultivation the entire journey.


    ¡­


    On the 107th year since they killed the Third Supremacy, Qin Yun and company finally arrived at their destination.


    "Halt," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower suddenly.


    The silver boat rapidly came to a stop.


    Hou Yi held an aqua blue token.


    "The entrance of the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley is roughly in this region. You can sense it with the memento in hand. The closer you are to the entrance, the more intense the memento''s fluctuation," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    "Okay." Hou Yi carefully sensed the area while controlling the silver boat slowly in flight. He slowly moved towards the goal.


    Soon.


    "Here, the fluctuation is most intense here," said Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun and company saw mysterious patterns suffuse the aqua blue token.


    "Activate the token and bring us all in," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    "Let''s go." Hou Yi held the token and triggered it with his Dharmic powers.


    Buzz.


    The fluctuation that emitted from the token enveloped the flying boat under Hou Yi''s control.


    Meanwhile, a maelstrom appeared in front of the boat. The boat zoomed in and disappeared with the maelstrom. After which, the region restored to its original state. The only difference was that a silver boat had vanished.


    "Oh?"


    It happened in nearly an instant.


    Another silver boat arrived.


    On that boat, Bohan Island Lord looked at his surroundings in astonishment. "They vanished? They vanished under my nose?"


    "Island Lord, my spatial worms can''t enter. However, the place they entered seems to be¡­" whispered the silver-haired man''s projection.


    "Legend has it that this region hides the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley," said Bohan Island Lord. "For them to suddenly vanish without me sensing them, it''s very likely they are headed for Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley. From the looks of it, I made the right choice in coming! I pursued the four other-universe experts and ended up coming to the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley. If I can obtain the three divine fruits, it would be a huge harvest for me."


    "The entrance to Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley is actually a spatial node?"


    Bohan Island Lord stared ahead. "Since I do not have the memento, I won''t be able to forcefully gain entry even if I tried."


    ¡­


    Outside, Bohan Island Lord attempted entry, but Qin Yun and company had already arrived before Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley.


    "Is this Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley?" Qin Yun and company marveled.


    The spatial forces had condensed into liquid as they flowed everywhere across a mountain range.


    The extended mountain range''s most eye-catching spot was the mountain valley. They had appeared at its entrance, but the mountain valley had the protection of an array formation. Qin Yun and company could hardly see deep into it.

 693 Have The Divine Fruits Ripen?

    Qin Yun and company carefully investigated in front of the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley.


    "What a powerful array formation." Kong Xuan frowned as he looked at it.


    "I''ve made many attempts. There''s no way for me to crack it," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "The person who set up the array had attainments comparable to mine; however, the core of this array formation involves the mysteries of space-time. My insights into the Great Dao of Space-time are insufficient, so I''m unable to crack it."


    Kong Xuan nodded as well. "It is a space-time array formation. I''m not good enough for this either."


    Kong Xuan was best at the Five Elements.


    "Both Palatial Lord Myriad Flower and I are unable to crack it, then there''s only one solution left." Kong Xuan looked at Qin Yun and Hou Yi. "That''s to crack it with overwhelming force! This array formation is ultimately an array formation at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. If a move at the Heavenly Dao realm is used, it should be enough to crack it."


    There was a qualitative change going from the half-step Heavenly Dao realm to the Heavenly Dao realm.


    For instance, for Hou Yi''s nine arrows, the first arrow had the might of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm, but it was only at the ninth arrow that it accumulated enough strength to release the might of the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "I''ll give it a try," said Hou Yi.


    "Brother Hou Yi, we''ll be counting on you." Qin Yun felt anticipation as well. As long as they cracked the array and entered, there was a chance of obtaining three divine fruits. If not, their trip would have been a waste.


    Hou Yi flipped his hand and produced his huge ancient and unadorned bow.


    He pulled his bow to a full draw, and a golden arrow pointed ahead.


    "Be careful. Do not damage the divine fruit''s trees," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower immediately. "I once entered briefly in an attempt to crack the array and barely managed to see the location of the trees." With that said, he pointed at a spot deep into the mountain valley.


    "Don''t worry. I will try to avoid that spot. Besides, cracking it with overwhelming force will take time," said Hou Yi. The first eight arrows of his nine successive arrows were powerful enough.


    Whoosh.


    When the arrow shot into the space-time array, it immediately caused ripples, but fell to the ground outside the array. The golden arrow then flew back to Hou Yi.


    Hou Yi very calmly shot one arrow after another. As the might of the arrows increased, they penetrated deeper into the array, allowing them to see more of the true colors of the space-time array formation.


    "It''s the eighth arrow." Qin Yun and company watched carefully as the eighth arrow was delivered.


    "Boom~" The space-time array quaked as a portion began to waver. Cracks in the array showed, enough to allow Qin Yun and company to see the situation inside the array.


    They saw a fruit tree which was entirely golden deep in the valley. Its roots reached deep into a gloating space-time stream.


    With another quiver of the array formation, the inside situation could no longer be seen.


    "The eighth arrow is already capable of stirring this array." Kong Xuan revealed a look of delight.


    "The ninth arrow will definitely crack it." Qin Yun was thrilled as well.


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower watched by the side in envy as he sighed inwardly, "In the spatial tide, having strength at the Heavenly Dao realm would make one a legendary expert."


    Only after reaching the half-step Heavenly Dao realm did one know how difficult it was to go one step further to produce the might of the Heavenly Dao realm.


    And it was because it was too difficult¡­


    Half-step Heavenly Dao realm experts in the physical lineage were utterly domineering in the spatial tide! Third Supremacy Mochen had reigned supreme for an extended period of time before succumbing to Bohan Island Lord. Of course, he later died under the hands of Hou Yi. Knowing how potent Hou Yi''s arrows were¡­ Bohan Island Lord did not even bring any subordinates along with him.


    This was because he knew very well that his subordinates would not provide any help. Instead, they would only be throwing themselves at death.


    "Boom!"


    The ninth arrow was released.


    It caused the space-time array to quake vigorously as the land exploded. Portions of the array was blasted to fragments as the entire array formation immediately weakened greatly.


    "A portion of the array formation has been damaged." Kong Xuan revealed a look of glee. "What follows should be easier."


    Hou Yi smiled as he grabbed four golden arrows in one hand.


    He shot them at the same time.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Each of the four arrows had might equivalent to Qin Yun''s Streaming Dragon. They headed for four different spots, each damaging the space-time array without facing any resistance.


    As the four spots exploded, the entire space-time array dissipated.


    "The array has cracked." Qin Yun and company revealed looks of delight. Palatial Lord Myriad Flower watched as upheavals went through his mind. He had held that memento for ages, but had been stopped in his tracks by the array. Now that entry was finally possible, he felt rueful. "Unfortunately, all I can do is gaze upon these three divine fruit trees up close, but will not get a single divine fruit."


    "Divine fruit trees." Qin Yun and company saw them.


    Upon looking deep into the valley, there were three lustrous glows that caught the eye.


    One fruit tree emitted golden light, another white, and the last rainbow colors.


    The lustrous glows enhanced the beauties of each other, causing the valley to look dreamy and fantastic.


    "The three divine fruit trees are born in midair," said Goumang.


    Qin Yun also carefully looked. He instantly recognized the fruits on the three trees. The first divine fruit tree had a total of nine golden fruits. They were about the size of apples. The second fruit tree''s fruit had brown skin and had a white, crystalline luster on its surface. There were only six of these fruits. They were of slightly smaller size than then golden fruit. The third fruit tree had fruits with swirly lusters and translucent skin, allowing one to see the flesh within. There were only three fruits the size of grapes.


    "There are so few divine fruits," thought Qin Yun.


    "Are these divine fruits ripe? Can they be plucked?" Goumang could not help but ask. "They seem to be of different sizes. Also, they seem to be growing by drawing on the fruit tree''s powers. Can they not be plucked before they are ripe?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    "According to the spirit fruits of our Three Realms, they cannot be consumed if they aren''t ripe. Some can be consumed, but instead of providing benefits, it brings harm," said Kong Xuan with a frown.


    "Let''s take a look around the area," Hou Yi said. "According to Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s words, this place has long become a legend. It''s likely been a while since experts entered. Perhaps the fruits have ripened a few times and fallen into the valley to make room for new ones.


    "Yes. Let''s enter to take a look. Everyone, be careful." Qin Yun continued maintaining his Misty Rain Array as they immediately flew into the valley carefully.


    Although they had cracked the space-time array outside of such a legendary land, they did not dare act carelessly.


    Soon.


    They saw the situation deep inside the valley.


    With their various means, they could see everything in the valley clearly. This made their pupils constrict as their expressions changed slightly.


    "There aren''t any fruits on the ground; not even one. There is a corpse though," said Goumang.


    Qin Yun also stared into the distance.


    There was a corpse not far from the three fruit trees. The corpse had a blue plait and was dressed in a blue robe. It leaned silently on a boulder motionlessly.


    "It''s him?" Palatial Lord Myriad Flower was alarmed.


    "Who is he?" Qin Yun asked.


    "He''s rather famous in the spatial tide," explained Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "He''s known as the Space-Time Wanderer! As he''s skilled in the Dao of Space-time, he is able to travel like a ghost in the spatial tide. Compounded by his insight into array formations¡­ he''s an extremely powerful expert. However, there has not been any news of him in a long while. People believed that he had returned to his homeworld, but who knew that he had died here."


    "To die here, he likely passed through the array outside and planned on plucking the divine fruits only to be killed." Hou Yi frowned. "Could there be danger inside?"


    "To be capable of killing him, the danger inside must far exceed the array formation outside," added Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    "But I can''t sense any danger inside." Kong Xuan felt puzzled. His Five-colored Divine Light domain had long extended inside. Apart from the puzzling corpse, he did not discover anything special.


    "So his name is the Space-time Wanderer."


    A deep voice sounded in the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley.


    Qin Yun and company had drastic changes in expression.


    Another expert?


    "He''s quite capable to pass through the array formation I set up," the deep voice continued. "But if he hadn''t entered, and just left politely, he might have survived. To have thoughts of snatching my divine fruit¡­ death is the only option."


    "If the five of you were to leave obediently, I would spare you. But if you wish to snatch my divine fruits as well, I can only do the same to you as I did to the Space-time Wanderer. All five of you will be killed," continued the deep voice.


    Qin Yun and company wore a mask of solemnity.


    "Where''s the enemy?" inquired Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "I do not know."


    "I haven''t discovered him."


    "There aren''t any enemies around us."


    Although Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and company had various means available to them, none of them found the enemy.

 694 Two Choices

    "From the looks of it, all of you are blinded by treasures. You would rather forgo your lives for a try at these treasures," the deep voice continued.


    "You are even greedier than us," said Hou Yi coldly. "You''ve had divine fruits for ages, but you still wish to monopolize the trees."


    "You want us to give up over just a few words? You must be in dreamland," said Kong Xuan with a scoff.


    "Sigh."


    A deep sigh resounded.


    "I knew I would eventually have to do something." Accompanied by the voice, an abnormal fluctuation began to stir inside the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley.


    "Oh?" Having suddenly sensed something, Qin Yun turned his head and saw a mountain peak warp. It turned into a rock serpent that was coiled a distance away. Its huge eyes were calmly looking down on Qin Yun and company. "Since you do not wish to leave after being given the chance, die."


    As it spoke, array formation stone columns appeared out of thin air around the rock serpent. A total of thirty-six columns instantly stirred the spatial energies inside the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley.


    "This serpent is skilled in spatial array formations." Qin Yun instantly understood. "The array formation seal from before was likely set up by this serpent."


    "Collect." A glimmer flashed in Kong Xuan''s eyes.


    The Five-colored Divine Light flashed through the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley and the stone columns which floated around the serpent vanished one after another.


    "Huh?" The serpent was slightly taken aback as he looked at Kong Xuan in surprise. "Your Dharmic formulation is rather special. You actually managed to take away my treasures. If you are agreeable... to handing that treasure-snatching Dharmic formulation to me, I can spare your life."


    "Try defeating us first," said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    By the side, Hou Yi had already begun drawing his huge bow.


    When the stone serpent saw Hou Yi, its irises constricted. It had seen how Hou Yi had used overwhelming force to crack the array formation. Immediately, it lunged forward. Although it was huge in size, it moved at astounding speeds! It far exceeded Qin Yun and company. While flying, time seemed to stop as it instantly appeared before them.


    "Swoosh." An arrow beam flashed and struck the stone serpent''s body. An invisible energy protected the serpent''s body, stopping the arrow before it even touched its scales.


    In midair, the stone serpent flung its tail and lashed it down at them.


    Kong Xuan used his Five-colored Divine Light domain to suppress the enemy, while Goumang had extended his vines which went out of the Misty Rain domain to block the stone serpent.


    "Bam!" Accompanied by a loud boom, the tail instantly tore through seven vines, but even more vines began winding themselves around the massive snake''s tail! But despite all the vines, the snake tail still managed to strike the Misty Rain Array.


    The Misty Rain Array trembled slightly but completely withstood the blow.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Hou Yi had already shot the third arrow, but it still failed to tear through the serpent''s protective energy.


    "Your array formation is interesting, but it wouldn''t be able to stop me." The serpent''s voice boomed as its massive body slithered away in midair before charging forward again.


    As for the vines? They bound the serpent, but they were ignored by the serpent as it continued lashing out at the Misty Rain Array! Even Hou Yi''s arrows were ignored.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The serpent repeatedly slammed and lashed out, each blow causing the land to quake. Its might made Qin Yun get serious as he hurriedly sent a voice transmission, "This serpent''s strength is very powerful. It''s far more powerful than Bohan Island''s Third Supremacy."


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Hou Yi had already shot his eighth arrow.


    The might of the eighth arrow finally tore through the invisible protective energies that covered the serpent''s surface. It struck its scales but only left cracks in them before the eighth arrow lost its momentum.


    "The ninth arrow." Hou Yi also wore a solemn look. He had never encountered anyone with such a powerful body. Be it the Ancestral Dragon or the Third Supremacy, none of them could face the eighth arrow with such ease.


    "Boom!"


    The first eight arrows had culminated to the complete eruption of the ninth arrow''s might.


    The ninth arrow''s strength was indisputably at the Heavenly Dao realm!


    The arrow beam flashed.


    It was unavoidable.


    The serpent made a rare pause on its assault of the Misty Rain Array. Instead, it carefully faced the arrow, but even so, there was no way to dodge Hou Yi''s arrow. There was not even a way to stop it, it could only take the blow directly.


    "Pfft." The arrow beam tore through the serpent''s protective energies before shattering its scales. It tore through the serpent''s body as it flew in the opposite direction.


    The beam had bored a huge bloody hole in its body.


    There were even annihilative forces that began causing wanton damage in the serpent''s body.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!" The serpent remained in midair as azure-colored streams flew out from the surrounding mountain range. They kept flying into the serpent''s body and restored it to peak condition.


    "What?" Kong Xuan''s expression changed when he saw this scene. "How did this serpent recover in a blink of an eye."


    "The Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley''s powers are constantly entering his body," said Hou Yi solemnly. "Unless I kill him in one shot to prevent his recovery, he is unkillable. However, I can only kill him in one shot if my ninth arrow has its strength increased several times..."


    "It needs to be strengthened several times?" Kong Xuan looked at Hou Yi. "Do you have the confidence to try that?"


    "Even if I risked my life to the point of injuring my Essence Soul into deep sleep, I wouldn''t be able to kill it." Hou Yi shook his head with a nasty expression on his face. "If we were outside, killing it wouldn''t be difficult. But in the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley... it''s unkillable."


    When Qin Yun and Goumang heard that, they realized that the situation was anything but reassuring.


    They knew very well that the nine successive arrows were considered Hou Yi''s ordinary attacks. He still had means available to him if he risked his life.


    But clearly, risking his life showed no hope either.


    In a situation without confidence... Qin Yun and company could not allow Hou Yi to risk his life to the point of entering deep sleep. After all, they still needed to return!


    "Hahaha, your arrow actually harmed me. Unfortunately, I have infinite power in this mountain valley," said the serpent with a laugh. "Since you can''t kill me, all of you will die."


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    The serpent no longer showed any worries as it completely released its strength as it ignited its powers. It charged the Misty Rain Array maniacally as the Goumang''s vines wound around its body began snapping. However, the vines continued growing and continued the entanglement, affecting the serpent''s strength in the process.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Blow after blow caused the Misty Rain Array to quake like it was about to crumble.


    "If his attack were to strengthen another thirty percent, I''ll have to ignite my Essence Soul Dharmic powers." Qin Yun did his best to resist the blows.


    Hou Yi also repeatedly shot his arrows, and in a blink of an eye, he shot his ninth arrow again. However, the ninth arrow had the same effects as it predecessor. Although it bore through the serpent''s body, the azure-colored streams flew from the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley into the serpent''s body, restoring it to perfection once again.


    Moments after the serpent unleashed its barrage of attacks on the Misty Rain Array.


    "What, it still isn''t cracking?" The serpent was alarmed. It had already ignited its energies and used all its strength. However, the Misty Rain Array was only pushed to the verge of collapse while holding strong.


    Qin Yun gradually relaxed. Although the serpent''s attacks were powerful, its might did not rise any further.


    "From the looks of it, that''s its limit," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission. "Although its offensive might''s limit is potent, it''s still a distance away from the Heavenly Dao realm."


    "Its body is already this strong. If its offensive might can match that of the Heavenly Dao realm, that would be a surprise," Kong Xuan heaved a sigh of relief and said.


    "But we can''t do anything to him either." Hou Yi frowned.


    "We can forcefully make our way over and pluck the divine fruits." Qin Yun controlled his Misty Rain Array as he led everyone deep into the mountain valley.


    Boom! Boom! Although the serpent attacked with all its might, Qin Yun and company still managed to approach the three divine fruit trees.


    "I thought they would need my help." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower sighed when he saw this happen.


    "Stop! Stop!"


    When the serpent saw Qin Yun and company approach the fruit trees, it immediately shouted. "The fruits haven''t ripened. If you were to consume them, you would only be wasting them. You''d gain no benefits whatsoever."


    "They haven''t ripened?" The hearts of Qin Yun and company palpated when they heard that.


    In fact, a visual inspection made them feel that the divine fruits were still drawing on the divine fruit tree''s powers. They were still maturing and had yet to ripen.


    However, they still held a sliver of hope.


    After all, the divine fruits could provide them with immense help, especially for Qin Yun. To Qin Yun, these divine fruits increased his chances of transcending the tribulations drastically.


    "They haven''t ripened?" Qin Yun felt a little anxious as he looked at the three fruit trees. His heart stirred when he saw the serpent stop its attacks. Immediately, he bellowed, "For you to entrench yourself in Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley, you must have collected a number of divine fruits, right? I''m giving you two choices. Either you hand over the divine fruits you have, or we will take the three divine fruit trees away."


    "Take away the fruit trees?" The serpent''s irises constricted.

 695 Divine Fruits In Hand

    Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and Goumang felt anxious and helpless when they heard that the divine fruits were unripe and impossible to pluck, but when they heard Qin Yun''s threats, their eyes lit up.


    "Yes, if you aren''t handing over the divine fruits, we can only snatch the divine fruit trees," said Kong Xuan immediately. Hou Yi, Goumang felt their hopes rise.


    The serpent was enraged, but it knew very well that it was at a stalemate. The five could not kill him, but similarly, he could not do anything to them. He had no way to stop them from uprooting the divine fruit trees.


    "The planting of these three divine fruit trees is very difficult," said the serpent with a deep voice. "My old master originally had more than ten divine fruit trees and traveled to countless areas before coming to the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley. After attempting various methods of planting, only three survived. Even I do not have the confidence to uproot these fruit trees and replant them successfully. And if they''re planted anywhere else outside... the chances of success would be even lower."


    The serpent looked at Qin Yun and company. "If you take them away, you will only destroy the three divine fruit trees."


    The hearts of Qin Yun and company stirred.


    Old master?


    Planting more than ten divine fruit trees?


    "Since your old master had successfully transplanted them, there is hope for us as well," said Kong Xuan. "Besides, if we can''t obtain the divine fruits and have to return empty-handed... we might as well try to take away the divine fruit trees."


    "You won''t be able to keep them alive." The serpent''s eyes were filled with rage.


    "Whether we succeed is our business," said Qin Yun. "Quickly make your choice."


    The serpent turned even more anxious.


    "We do not have the time to waste with you," urged Kong Xuan as well. "If you do not agree soon, we can only snatch the fruit trees away."


    "I agree to give you three Soul Heart Fruits, a Chaos Origins Fruit, and a Spirit Enlightening Fruit," said the serpent in a deep voice. "Hand over the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley''s memento and immediately leave."


    Qin Yun exchanged glances.


    There''s a chance!


    Since it easily agreed to hand over a few divine fruits, it probably meant that it had a lot more divine fruits.


    "There are five of us. How are we to split this bit of divine fruit?" Qin Yun shook his head. "Besides, you want us to hand over the memento? With this, we can enter again in the future."


    "If you keep the memento, you will probably come again to threaten me in the future after leaving," said the snake. "The memento has to be handed over before I agree to give you any divine fruits."


    Qin Yun and company exchanged looks and smiled. He continued, "Alright, we can hand over the memento, but you have to give us all the divine fruits you have."


    "All?" The serpent was enraged. "You are being too greedy."


    "But you want us to hand over the memento. If we are allowed to keep the memento, we will only ask for six Soul Heart Fruits, two Chaos Origins Fruits, and two Spirit Enlightening Fruits before agreeing to leave. However, if the memento needs to be handed over, we need to take all the divine fruits." Qin Yun and company were staring at the serpent.


    The serpent fell silent.


    Qin Yun and company did not compromise either.


    They could tell from the naked eye that the divine fruits had a strict requirement for their environment. It far exceeded the Connate Spirit Fruits in the Three Realms. The time it took to ripen would be very long as well.


    This memento...


    According to what Qin Yun and company knew , this was not the only one! To give it up for a batch of divine fruits was worth it.


    Furthermore, knowing where the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley''s entrance was, it was possible to attempt entry by cracking it with force even without the memento.


    "Since he''s disagreeable to it, let''s take the fruit trees," said Kong Xuan. "I believe our seniors and masters in our homeworld will be able to find a method to plant them. With these fruit trees, once we succeed in transplanting them, there would be an endless stream of divine fruits."


    "Hand over the memento and agree to never come to the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley again," said the serpent in a heavy voice. "I''ll give you the divine fruits."


    Qin Yun and company were delighted when they heard that.


    "It''s all the divine fruits you have," said Hou Yi.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll naturally do it if I make the promise," said the serpent in a heavy voice. "Since you''ve agreed to it, do not ever come again."


    The higher one''s cultivation was, the more importance they placed to their promises.


    Both sides agreed not to violate the promise easily.


    "We agree," Qin Yun and company said one after another.


    The serpent cast its gaze towards Palatial Lord Myriad Flower for he was the only one that didn''t say a word. Qin Yun and company also looked at Palatial Lord Myriad Flower.


    He wore a bitter expression for he would not reap any of the benefits. However, being glared at by Qin Yun and company, and to survive, he had no choice but to say obediently, "I also agree never to come to Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley."


    "These are all the divine fruits I have accumulated after so long." The serpent did a wave as fruits appeared hovering in midair immediately.


    There were the most number of golden fruits¡ªa total of sixteen. There were only four brown-skinned fruits that suffused white light. There were only two translucent fruits with swirling rainbow steams.


    Qin Yun and company had their eyes light up.


    Following that, Kong Xuan deliberately frowned and said, "There are sixteen Soul Heart Fruits, yet there are only four Chaos Origins Fruits and two Spirit Enlightening Fruits? There should be nine Soul Heart Fruits every time they ripen. There should be three for the Spirit Enlightening Fruits. Why do you have these few after all this time?"


    "Since I said that these are all the divine fruits I have, I''m naturally not hiding any," the serpent said in a deep voice. "I still wish to cultivate to a higher realm and transcend the spatial tide! As for the other divine fruits, I have eaten them. I also need to cultivate and make trades with the outside world."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun and company were enlightened. They exchanged looks before nodding slightly.


    "This is the Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley''s memento." Hou Yi flipped his hand and took out the ice-blue token.


    Both parties did the exchange.


    The ice-blue token flew to the serpent, while the divine fruits flew to Qin Yun and company. Hou Yi waved his hand and stored them away.


    "Hmph!"


    When the serpent saw the ice-blue token fly towards him, he scoffed softly, "That old bastard refined these mementos after transcending the spatial tide and scattered them in the spatial tide to give to so-called successors. What a joke."


    Qin Yun and company pricked up their brows when he heard that.


    "So it was your old master who wanted to use the mementos to split the divine fruits to all cultivators," Kong Xuan said with a chuckle. "If that''s the case, it''s even more true that you shouldn''t monopolize them."


    "Who doesn''t want to monopolize such treasures? With these divine fruit trees, I can make trades with various cultivators from other universes," said the serpent with a scoff. "As for my old master, hmph. He''s also an outsider, while I was born in this valley. He came to my valley, occupied it, and enslaved me... How is it possible for me to listen to him?"


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    It was no wonder the stone serpent was enriched by the powers in this world. He could rapidly heal from any injuries, no matter how severe they were.


    "If he had not refined this token, you wouldn''t be able to enter with the abilities you possess," said the serpent with a grunt. "By the way, return me the array formation treasure you took away from me."


    "Return? That''s our spoils of war," said Kong Xuan with a smile. "You can use treasures to exchange for it."


    "If you want it, keep it then. It''s merely an array formation item refined from the valley''s rock." The serpent couldn''t be bothered to harp on the matter. "Alright, you''ve obtained the divine fruits, so leave quickly. Fly to where you originally entered, and I''ll open the entrance and send you out."


    "We''ll leave in a while," said Hou Yi.


    Qin Yun and company began discussing over voice transmissions.


    "Everyone, we have obtained sixteen Soul Heart Fruits, four Chaos Origins Fruits, and two Spirit Enlightening Fruits. How do we split it?" Hou Yi asked. "I want one Spirit Enlightening Fruit."


    "I also want one Spirit Enlightening Fruit," said Qin Yun. There were multiple Soul Heart Fruits, so everyone was definitely getting one. As for the Spirit Enlightening Fruit, it was used to gain epiphanies in cultivation. If one''s realm was further enhanced, their overall strength would be raised once more.


    Kong Xuan and Goumang hesitated.


    Both of them wished to obtain the Spirit Enlightening Fruit as well.


    If they obtained the Spirit Enlightening Fruits, both of them might be able to attain the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    However, there were only two of those.

 696 Bohan Island Lord Who Couldnst Enter

    Upon seeing this scene, Qin Yun instantly knew that no one wanted to compromise.


    Everyone was willing to negotiate when faced with other treasures since even Connate Cardinal treasures were not enough to make them go crazy, especially so for Qin Yun and Hou Yi. Even the weaker Kong Xuan and Goumang were nearing the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Having an additional Connate Cardinal treasure¡­ could be used firstly to study the Great Dao, but also to have more means available to them. Their strength would only increase slightly, without any qualitative change.


    However, the divine fruits were different.


    A Spirit Enlightening Fruit could allow one to have an epiphany!


    The Chaos Origins Fruit¡­ could cultivate a second avatar without affecting the main body. If both main body and avatar joined forces, one''s strength would be greater! Furthermore, it was an additional life.


    These two divine fruits had value far above that of Connate Cardinal treasures. There was probably no way of obtaining them again if they missed this opportunity. After all, these divine fruits were legendary in the spatial tide. Qin Yun and company had also promised never to enter this valley again.


    All of them present were prideful people. Kong Xuan, who had the title of Mahamayuri, was well known to be very tyrannical. Later in life, he was subdued by Buddhist Ancestor Gautama, which eased his foul temper. Hou Yi was an extremely lonesome person. If Qin Yun''s sword array had not been able to withstand his ninth arrow, he would not have agreed to come. Goumang had always been cultivating in the Chaos and could tolerate long periods of loneliness. Naturally, he had an intense desire for the Great Dao. Wasn''t the reason for his multiple entries into the spatial tide to obtain such great opportunities? Qin Yun''s life was threatened by the Itinerant Immortal tribulations! As a sword immortal, how could he easily forgo the fruit?


    "We go according to our earlier agreement." Hou Yi swept his gaze and said via a voice transmission, "The treasures obtained in Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley will be split into three. Qin Yun and I will each obtain one. The remaining will be split equally among Brother Kong Xuan and Brother Goumang. And since there are only two Spirit Enlightening Fruits, which Qin Yun and I both need, we will each take one¡­ Do the both of you have any problems with that?"


    Kong Xuan and Goumang exchanged looks.


    Indeed, it wasn''t easy for them to vie for more if Hou Yi and Qin Yun were unwilling to give the fruits up.


    "The allocation of the divine fruits has to be split more fairly," said Goumang with a smile.


    "Let''s do it this way," said Hou Yi. "The Spirit Enlightening Fruit will be valued as four Soul Heart Fruits. The Chaos Origins Fruit will be valued at three Soul Heart Fruits. What''s your opinion of that?"


    "Alright."


    "We shall go by that valuation."


    Qin Yun, Goumang, and Kong Xuan nodded slightly.


    "Then, I''ll take a Spirit Enlightening Fruit, a Chaos Origins Fruit, and five Soul Heart Fruits," said Hou Yi. "Qin Yun will do the same as well! Brother Kong Xuan and Goumang, they will each obtain a Chaos Origins Fruit and three Soul Heart Fruits. As such, it will be considered fair."


    "It''s indeed fair


    Qin Yun nodded.


    By that count, it was equivalent to him obtaining twelve Soul Heart Fruits.


    "Let''s split it in such a manner. If anyone has anything else they want, it can be done through one-on-one exchange," said Hou Yi. Following that, he waved his hand and produced numerous floating divine fruits. They flew separately to Qin Yun, Goumang, and Kong Xuan. By the side, Palatial Lord Myriad Flower looked at the divine fruits covetously, but all he could do was grumble inwardly.


    Qin Yun happily stored his away.


    "With these divine fruits, my chances of transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulation will be increased," thought Qin Yun. "I will have a chance of obtaining true immortality. I can be with Xiaoxiao forever, as well as teach Huan''er, Yiyi, Yuluo, and the rest."


    If one could live, who would wish to die?


    Even Qin Yun looked forward to eternal life.


    After Kong Xuan stored away the divine fruits, his heart stirred as he asked Qin Yun, "Brother Qin Yun, are you willing to exchange one Chaos Origins Fruit with three of my Soul Heart Fruits?"


    Qin Yun was taken aback.


    A Chaos Origins Fruit could allow him to risk his life when transcending the tribulations once.


    With three Soul Heart Fruits, he could risk it thrice!


    However, a Chaos Origins Fruit¡­ was equivalent to having a second life!


    "My strength is this high only because of my Intrinsic Flying Sword," thought Qin Yun. "Even if I possess a second avatar, it would be much weaker than my main body without the Misty Rain Sword. Furthermore, with three Soul Heart Fruits, I would have greater help transcending the tribulation. Regardless¡­ transcending the tribulation and surviving is of utmost importance."


    "I wish to change too," Goumang said immediately. "Brother Qin Yun, are you willing to do the exchange?"


    "Both of you¡­" Qin Yun laughed in exasperation. "According to what Palatial Lord Myriad Flower said, this Chaos Origins Fruit can only be used once to cultivate a second avatar. Consuming more wouldn''t result in a third avatar."


    Goumang said with a smile, "Even if we don''t use it, we can also obtain immense benefits by selling them to other cultivators."


    Kong Xuan nodded. "My strength mainly stems from my divine power domain. The Soul Heart Fruits provide me with little help. If I were to bring these to the Three Realms, perhaps people like the Ancestral Dragon would be fervently hoping to obtain one Chaos Origins Fruit."


    Qin Yun was enlightened.


    The Ancestral Dragon was physically powerful, but the typical means of cultivating an avatar in the Three Realms would damage one''s body. It also inflicted damage to one''s perceptivity and other aspects; therefore, many mighty figures were unwilling to cultivate an avatar.


    However, the Chaos Origins Fruit would not deal any damage to the main body.


    If the Ancestral Dragon were to obtain an avatar as powerful as he was, it was something he would rabidly covet even if he needed to expend large amounts of treasures to do so.


    "I''m willing to exchange," said Qin Yun. "But if both of you wish to exchange with me, who should I choose?"


    "I was the first one to make the request," said Kong Xuan immediately.


    "But Brother Qin Yun did not agree to it," said Goumang immediately.


    "Discuss among yourselves first." Qin Yun smiled. He did not need to say things like "the item goes to the highest bidder!" since the two could only produce three Soul Heart Fruits.


    Kong Xuan and Goumang exchanged voice transmissions and discussed for quite a long while. It left the stone serpent who was waiting a distance away a little impatient. However, it suppressed its impatience.


    "Do the exchange with me." Kong Xuan looked at Qin Yun. "I have come to an agreement with Brother Goumang." By the side, Goumang nodded.


    Therefore¡­


    Qin Yun did an exchange of divine fruits with Kong Xuan.


    Kong Xuan had two Chaos Origins Fruits, leaving Qin Yun without a single one. However, he obtained one Spirit Enlightening Fruit and eight Soul Heart Fruits! He could risk his life eight times while transcending the tribulation! All of this was in preparation for the tribulation.


    "As long as I survive the tribulation, the cultivation of an avatar or other means can be dealt with slowly," thought Qin Yun.


    "Brother Hou Yi, are you willing to exchange?" Goumang looked at Hou Yi.


    Hou Yi smiled faintly as he looked at Goumang. "No!"


    "Can you leave now that you have split the divine fruits?" The serpent far away finally spoke.


    "We shall leave now." Hou Yi immediately laughed. Then, he steered the silver boat towards the entrance they took.


    "I''ll let all of you feel smug about it. If I get the chance in the future. Hmph¡­" The serpent had been repressing his anger the entire time.


    ¡­


    Outside.


    The white-haired Bohan Island Lord was sitting cross-legged on a flying boat as he looked at the space ahead of him.


    "I clearly saw them enter. The entrance is a space-time node." Bohan Island Lord frowned. "But even with my array formation realm, I''m unable to crack it? I can''t figure out a single thing¡­"


    Having thought deeply for a long time, he had failed to gain any progress. It was as if the spatial tide ahead of him was an ordinary everyday spot.


    But previously, he had seen the other-universe cultivators enter with his own eyes. He knew that there was a unique node here.


    "Whoosh."


    A spatial vortex appeared and a silver flying boat flew out.


    "It has opened." Bohan Island Lord was instantly delighted. He immediately waved his hand in a bid to use his mighty powers to hold open the spatial vortex. However, the vortex repelled him, closing once the silver boat flew out.


    "My powers were completely repelled. I failed to seep any of my powers in? However, I did see the array formation entrance clearly." Bohan Island Lord''s heart sank. "The person who set up this array formation has attainments in arrays that reach the Primordial realm. His attainments are higher than mine and it contains the mystical profundity of space-time.


    "Without a memento, there''s no way of gaining forceful entry." Bohan Island Lord instantly understood this.


    "Oh?"


    When Qin Yun and company exited the spatial vortex on the silver boat, Kong Xuan said to Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, "Don''t worry. We will keep our word and let you leave."


    "I obviously believe all of you." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower smiled when he suddenly paled as he shouted urgently, "It''s Bohan Island Lord!"


    "Bohan Island Lord?"


    Qin Yun and company were jolted to attention for they saw it too.


    In the vast spatial tide, a flying boat was floating there. A white-haired man was sitting on the bow of the boat in a daze.


    Following that, the white-haired man''s gaze was cast on them. His eyes were cold as he said, "Hand over the memento of Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley and I can spare your lives. You will be given safe passage."


    "Memento?"


    Qin Yun exchanged looks.


    The memento was now with the serpent. They had nothing of the sort.

 697 Bohan Island Lords Strength

    "Even if we wish to hand over the memento, there''s nothing to hand over," said Goumang over a voice transmission.


    "From the looks of it, a fight is inevitable," said Kong Xuan with a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun and Hou Yi wore serious expressions. Amid their seriousness, the fighting spirit in their hearts rose.


    Having been in the spatial tide for so long, everything had been smooth-sailing for them. The stone serpent which could barely be considered their equal would not have been able to resist Qin Yun and company if it were in the outside world. It did have an indestructible body inside Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley, but even so, Qin Yun and company had still successfully robbed it of a few divine fruits.


    "Bohan Island Lord''s strength is incomparable. He''s one of the strongest existences in the spatial tide. He''s absolutely invincible." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower knew of Bohan Island Lord''s reputation as he hurriedly sent voice transmissions. "Quickly hand me my Myriad Flower Palace. We can hide in it and there might be a chance if we use it to fight him."


    "Give it to him," instructed Hou Yi via a voice transmission.


    Although his fighting spirit was burning, they had to be careful and make contingencies.


    Kong Xuan immediately waved his hand as the Myriad Flower Palace appeared beneath Qin Yun and company. All of them immediately flew into the Myriad Flower Palace.


    "I''m finally back." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower stood in the flowers and with a thought, fully took control of the Myriad Flower Palace and felt a little more reassured.


    As his Dharmic powers circulated, the flowers in Myriad Flower Palace began to bloom as array formations after array formations were activated. All of them fused as one as they emitted a halo that enveloped the palace. As for Qin Yun and company, they stood beside Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. If they so wishes, they could instantly kill him. Furthermore, they had left contingencies in his Essence Soul, so they were not afraid that he would suddenly have nefarious ideas.


    The white-haired man slowly stood up from his boat''s bow and looked at Qin Yun and company in a leisurely manner. He was unfazed by the Myriad Flower Palace as he said indifferently, "So, are you not willing to hand over the memento?"


    "Island Lord, it''s not that we are unwilling to hand them over. It''s that we don''t have it," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "After we entered Illusion Fiend Mountain Valley, the memento was taken back by it."


    "You do not have it?" The white-haired man glanced at Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "So did you obtain the divine fruits?"


    "Why ask so many questions?" bellowed Goumang.


    "So it appears you did obtain the divine fruits. Hand them all over and I can spare your lives," said the white-haired man calmly. After all, if Qin Yun and company were unwilling to do so, they could destroy the divine fruits and memento before they were killed.


    To Bohan Island Lord¡­


    Although these other-universe cultivators were of use, they were not as important as the three legendary divine fruits.


    With those divine fruits, he could make deals with another powerful existence. That powerful existence was much more powerful when it came to resurrecting lives. Legend had it that by paying a sufficiently large price, this person was even capable of retrieving the deceased from the river of time.


    "Dream on." Hou Yi sneered.


    "Giving you the divine fruits we went through such great effort to obtain?" Kong Xuan also looked at Bohan Island Lord.


    "You seem unconvinced of my strength, then I shall beat you into submission." Bohan Island flipped his hand as a black disc appeared in his hand.


    "Collect."


    Kong Xuan''s mind immediately stirred as the Five-colored Divine Light flashed.


    However, Bohan Island Lord continued wielding the black disc. He looked at Kong Xuan with a faint smile. "From the looks of it, you are unable to snatch away my treasures."


    Kong Xuan''s expression changed. His Five-colored Divine Light was not omnipotent. Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, Hou Yi''s arrow that had been infused with Heart Force were things he couldn''t snatch! As for the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor, as long as they were guarded against him, there was no way for Kong Xuan to snatch their treasures. Even if they were taken away out of carelessness, they could instantly snatch them back.


    As for Bohan Island Lord, he was clearly well aware of Kong Xuan''s ability and made plans to counter it.


    "Witness my array formation," Bohan Island Lord said leisurely as he activated the black disc.


    "Whoosh."


    A huge black array appeared, sealing the surrounding void.


    Hundreds of thousands of kilometers had been sealed like a huge black void prison! Myriad Flower Palace was naturally within its confines, along with Qin Yun and company.


    "No matter what means you employ, there''s no way you can escape." Bohan Island Lord smiled as he waved his hand. "What I''m best at isn''t array formations, but saber arts."


    Three curved sabers appeared before him. Two of them did not have a hilt other than the blade! Floating there, they suffused a staggering baneful aura that alarmed Qin Yun and company.


    "This is the most terrifying baneful aura-emitting weapon I''ve ever seen," said Kong Xuan via a voice transmission. "How many lives has the saber killed to have such an aura?"


    Qin Yun, Hou Yi, Goumang and Palatial Lord Myriad Flower wore masks of solemnity.


    "Go."


    Bohan Island leisurely waved his hand.


    Three curved sabers immediately spun as they sliced at the Myriad Flower Palace. They did not seem to move quickly, but Qin Yun and company could sense the infinite deathly stillness just by looking at them with their naked eye! They felt their bodies were wallowing in despair! Qin Yun felt like he was a victim of drowning as he struggled. Even his control of the Misty Rain Array weakened greatly.


    "Be careful," bellowed Hou Yi as his Heart Force spread in every direction. Qin Yun and company were jolted awake as they recovered.


    As Hou Yi shouted, he immediately drew his bow and shot an arrow beam.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    Arrows were shot out in rapid succession as they went straight for Bohan Island Lord who continued controlling the three sabers and allowed the arrows to come at him.


    "Pfft." When they were still a hundred feet from Bohan Island Lord, an invisible void barrier fended off the arrow.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" There was a deep rumble.


    The sabers sliced at the surface of the Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations and immediately caused them to tremble. Layer after layer of array formations cracked, but new array formations took their place.


    "Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, you always hid in the Myriad Flower Palace whenever you saw me coming. You would immediately steer the Myriad Flower Palace to fly into the Chaos spatial rift for your life," said Bohan Island Lord with a laugh. "But this time, there are no Chaos spatial rift around. Let''s see you flee now."


    As the array formations boomed, the array formations cracked one after another.


    Hou Yi was still shooting his arrows.


    The seventh, eighth arrow! But the eighth arrow was still completely blocked by the void barrier.


    "Boom!"


    The ninth arrow manifested as a golden beam.


    At the instant the ninth arrow reached the void barrier a hundred feet away from Bohan Island Lord, it created a loud boom and tore open a hole. Just as it was about to reach Bohan Island Lord, it stopped ten feet away as a blurry black barrier protected Bohan Island and his surroundings. The ninth arrow was completely blocked.


    "This arrow of yours actually has the might of the Primordial realm. I can sense the inner world''s force of the heart in this arrow." Bohan Island Lord looked at Hou Yi in surprise. "Unfortunately, your archery skills are too crude."


    The hearts of Qin Yun, Goumang, and Kong Xuan palpitated.


    An arrow with the strength at the Heavenly Dao realm had been so easily blocked without even using a weapon.


    Hou Yi, who was only a slight distance away from the Heavenly Dao realm, was actually described to have crude archery skills? Could Bohan Island Lord''s realm have already reached the Heavenly Dao realm?


    "You should have guessed that I have long reached the Primordial realm. I just haven''t had my strength break through to it." Bohan Island looked at Qin Yun and company. "Besides, I have also cultivated in various cultivation systems from different universes in the spatial tide. You are not my match. Obediently hand over all the divine fruits and I can still spare your life."


    "Boom~" The Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations were once again cracked open. As the three sabers sliced at the Myriad Flower Palace''s yard walls, they began to crack.


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower said worriedly, "Help me fend off the attacks. My Myriad Flower Palace won''t be able to last much longer."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun immediately had willed for his Misty Rain Array to expand. It began defending against the three sabers along with the Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations.


    The combined forces of the Misty Rain Array and the Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations could hardly hold as the Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations continued being destroyed. The only difference was that the speed of the destruction was slower.


    "All you did was help me block off one saber. I''m still incapable of defending against the other two sabers. My array formations are being cracked," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower urgently.


    "I''m already doing my best." Qin Yun was also powering his array with all his Dharmic powers, but his Misty Rain Array was churning like it would collapse at any moment. "To be able to put up a greater defense, I''ll need to burn my Essence Soul Dharmic powers."


    "My Myriad Flower Palace can only last for a few more seconds. The palace is about to be fall," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower, flustered.


    "Didn''t you say that you had a chance of defending against him?" Goumang asked with a frantic voice transmission.


    "When I met Bohan Island Lord in the past, I would immediately steer the Myriad Flower Palace into a Chaos spatial rift. I''ve never defended against him for so long." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower was panicking. "Besides, he had never used so much strength when he attacked those previous times."


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    As the array formations cracked in succession, the Myriad Flower Palace which Palatial Lord Myriad Flower had been controlling for many years turned increasingly weak. As the outer walls of the palace cracked, they began to crumble. It made Palatial Lord Myriad Flower reveal a look of despair.


    "Boom!"


    Upon seeing this, Qin Yun immediately ignited his Essence Soul Dharmic powers and powered his Misty Rain Array, causing its might to greatly increase as he helped fending off two of the sabers. As for the third saber, the Myriad Flower Palace was barely able to fend it off.


    "I won''t be able to last long while burning my Essence Soul Dharmic powers," said Qin Yun urgently.


    "That sword array of yours is rather interesting. But how long can you last burning your Essence Soul?" Bohan Island Lord said leisurely from afar. "All of you will die if you do not hand over the divine fruits!"

 698 Fight to the End

    "Oh?" Qin Yun sensed something as he looked outside.


    Beside him, Hou Yi was wielding his ancient bow and burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers as well. His terrifying aura soared and as he flipped his hand to take out a golden Soul Heart Fruit, he swallowed it. His eyes were filled with a frenzied look as he immediately pulled his bow to a full draw and shot the first arrow. This arrow tore through the spatial barrier a hundred feet away from Bohan Island Lord but was finally stopped by the black barrier that extended ten feet away from him.


    This arrow similarly had the might of the Heavenly Dao realm!


    "In all my years of cultivation, there has only been one instance of me burning my Essence Soul to shoot nine successive arrows. I fell into a slumber for thirty thousand years afterwards," Hou Yi sent a voice transmission to Qin Yun and company. "This will be my second time!"


    Qin Yun and company felt a sense of anticipation.


    To shoot nine successive arrows by burning his Essence Soul?


    The first arrow had the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. Then, how much stronger was the ninth arrow? It was likely be able to do something to Bohan Island Lord, right!?


    Qin Yun also knew very well that the expenditure of burning Essence Soul Dharmic powers had varying speeds. For instance, Fate lasted more than a day burning his Essence Soul, only to control a group of slaves. Without receiving any attacks, Qin Yun could also maintain his Misty Rain Array for a rather long period of time while burning his Essence Soul. However, the higher the damage inflicted, the greater the Dharmic powers expenditure.


    For Hou Yi to shoot nine successive arrows, the expenditure involved was extremely terrifying.


    "I''ve already told you that you don''t pose a threat to me." Bohan Island Lord remained indifferent as he directed his three sabers to constantly slice down.


    Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!


    Hou Yi did not say a word as he shot arrow after arrow.


    Bohan Island Lord remained rather staid in the beginning, but slowly, his expression changed. The first arrow''s might was already at the Heavenly Dao realm and by the fourth arrow, it was enough to make Bohan Island Lord feel an immense threat.


    "The price of shooting nine consecutive arrows should be huge. Was he burning his Essence Soul to cast it?" Bohan Island Lord felt that things were amiss. At his level of insight, he knew that to reach a might at the Heavenly Dao realm by burning Dharmic powers at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm was legendary. For Hou Yi''s ninth arrow to reach the Heavenly Dao realm''s might without burning his Dharmic powers¡­ was already inconceivable.


    Such an inconceivable mystic art was bound to be heavily restricted.


    Bohan Island wasn''t aware that Hou Yi was capable of doing so because of the Heart Force lineage. Hou Yi had already cultivated the Heart Force lineage to an unprecedented stage. By burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to deliver the nine consecutive arrows, the expenditure of Heart Force also rose exponentially. However, Hou Yi was still capable of doing so.


    "Whoosh." The fifth arrow transformed into a blinding arrow beam that was eye-catching and resplendent. Qin Yun and company felt bedazzled by what they saw, feeling that the arrow art before them was impossible to dodge.


    A deep hum accompanied it.


    The black barrier ten feet from Bohan Island Lord was torn through as well, as though a world had been shattered. However, a black glow emanated from his body, suffusing black scaled armor and forming a complete black armor set. Bohan Island Lord wore a black battle helm on his head, and his body was completely protected.


    After the fifth arrow tore through the black barrier, the remnant blast was completely stopped by the black armor.


    "You should be proud to force me to give my all!" Dressed in his black armor, Bohan Island Lord spoke with a deep voice. Boom! His aura turned a lot more terrifying as he similarly ignited his Dharmic powers and controlled his three sabers.


    The might of the three sabers rose drastically.


    Myriad Flower Palace''s array formations cracked one after another as the yard walls began to crack and collapse.


    "I can''t last much longer." Palatial Lord Myriad Flower''s expression changed drastically.


    Qin Yun immediately expanded his Misty Rain Array and enveloped the Myriad Flower Palace fully. At that instant, his Misty Rain Array was independently resisting the blows of the three augmented sabers. Grinding sounds ensued as they sliced at the Misty Rain Array, causing it to tremble vigorously. The expenditure of Qin Yun''s Essence Soul Dharmic powers rose rapidly as well.


    However, Qin Yun still revealed a look of surprise. "This increase in strength is lower than what I expected."


    According to his experience in the Three Realms, the ignition of Essence Soul Dharmic powers raised one''s strength by quite a significant amount.


    However, Bohan Island Lord''s ignition only raised each saber''s might by about 70%! Although it still posed a huge threat on Qin Yun, it was better than expected.


    "Although the might has only increased by 70%, I''m not fending against his attacks alone. I can only last ten seconds." Although Qin Yun felt the pinch, he had no choice but to take out one golden Soul Heart Fruit. The fruit had a golden luster on the surface and looked tender. Qin Yun swallowed it in one gulp as it melted immediately. A power filled his Essence Soul.


    As he expended his Essence Soul by burning it, the Soul Heart Fruit''s powers constantly replenished it.


    Upon seeing this scene, Bohan''s eyes turned a lot colder. In fact, his realm had reached the Primordial realm, but his Essence Soul Dharmic powers had not broken through! This caused a gap in his released strength from the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor of the Three Realms. However, the benefit of having learned many cultivation systems and various mystic arts in the spatial tide allowed him to fully express his potential.


    Without burning his powers, he was able to release extremely powerful strength. The three sabers'' might were already at the Heavenly Dao realm.


    As he had fully expressed his potential, the ignition of his powers¡­ did not raise his strength significantly. That also meant that having released all his strength, he only had strength equivalent to the Fiend Ancestor and company. Qin Yun was only able to withstand ten seconds of such a blow while burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers.


    "Whew! Whew!"


    Hou Yi was shooting his arrows at his fastest possible speed. There was nothing else he could do about speeding it up as he needed to infuse each arrow with Heart Force and that required time. Now, he had already shot his seventh arrow.


    Bam! Bam!


    The seventh arrow tore through the void barrier, the black barrier, and cracked Bohan Island Lord''s scaled armor. Even blood spewed out.


    "No, I can''t hold on. Unless my strength breaks through to the Primordial realm, there''s no way to defend against him." At that moment, Bohan Island Lord understood this. However, there was no way to make a breakthrough in the spatial tide. He needed to enter the Chaos to truly break through to the Heavenly Dao realm. He immediately summoned back his three sabers. He had never used his weapons to defend previously.


    Hou Yi''s eighth arrow was strung.


    Buzz!


    The eighth arrow was shot out.


    Far away, Bohan Island Lord used the three sabers to defend as he split into more than ten thousand afterimages in the spatial tide. It was not technique to create avatars, but simply a result of his dodging through his movement techniques.


    "What an impressive movement technique." Qin Yun and company were amazed.


    However, an arrow beam tore through one of the afterimages as blood splattered, revealing Bohan Island Lord''s actual figure. A huge hole had appeared in his chest.


    "His arrow cannot be blocked by weapons and I can''t dodge it? Even the legendary Heart Force of the inner world isn''t that powerful." Bohan Island Lord was feeling disbelief. However, little did he know that the experts who possessed Heart Force that he met in the spatial tide were still far inferior to Hou Yi.


    Hum!


    The ninth arrow beam was glaring while strung on Hou Yi''s ancient bow.


    At that moment, Bohan Island Lord immediately waved his hands. The three sabers and eighteen shields floated around him. As he used his treasures to defend, he frantically flew far into the distance.


    He finally decided to retreat.


    But when it came to the nine successive arrows¡­ the ninth arrow experienced a qualitative change.


    If he had begun escaping at the fourth of fifth arrow, there would''ve been a chance of escaping given his speed. But now? It was too late.


    Hou Yi''s face had turned pale. Although the Soul Heart Fruit could restore his Essence Soul, its restoration effects towards his Heart Force were much weaker. What was like a tumultuous ocean of Heart Force was nearly fully injected into the ninth arrow. He was close to being drained of his Heart Force. The ordinary shooting of his nine successive arrows could be done easily by him, but now, just once was enough to exhaust him.


    "It will all depend on this strike." Hou Yi''s eyes burned as a look of anticipation twinkled in them.


    This was the first time he had gone all-out after reaching the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    This arrow beam was resplendently blinding as it tore through space.


    The three sabers and eighteen shields seemed to seal off every direction, but the arrow beam still tore through space. No matter how unpredictable Bohan Island Lord''s movement technique was, the Heart Force''s lock on him ensured that the arrow would land on him.


    "Boom." Bohan Island Lord''s body was penetrated as a terrifying might instantly wiped out all the vitality in Bohan Island Lord''s body. Even his Essence Soul was vanquished.


    His body floated in space without any life left to it.


    "Dead. He''s dead."


    "Bohan Island Lord is dead." Qin Yun and company revealed thrilled looks.


    Qin Yun looked at Hou Yi feeling amazed. An expert whose realm had reached the Heavenly Dao realm except for a delayed breakthrough of his Essence Soul Dharmic powers ended up being killed by Hou Yi''s full-powered strike?


    "At the instant my arrow destroyed his body, I sensed that he still has an avatar in the spatial tide." Hou Yi''s face was pale as his eyes looked dull. He decisively said, "They know our strength, so if they come again, they will definitely have ways to deal with us. Let''s leave quickly. I won''t be able to produce those nine arrows again in the next hundred years."


    He had never expended so much Heart Force before.


    "He still has an avatar?"


    "That''s right. He has studied so many cultivation systems. It''s impossible not to have an avatar."


    "He might be coming with help the next time."


    "Let''s leave quickly."


    Qin Yun and company did not hesitate. They stored away Bohan Island Lord''s corpse and remaining items and commandeered the flying boat which Bohan Island Lord used and flew back towards the Three Realms at the fastest speed possible.


    They had truly used all their strength this time without hiding anything. Furthermore, Hou Yi was unable to deliver such immense strength for another hundred years. They naturally had to flee.

 699 Treasure Splitting

    Bohan Island.


    "My avatar was actually killed? Although my strength has yet to break through, my realm has long reached the Primordial realm. Even so, I was killed by them?" A white-haired man sat cross-legged, eyes filled not with anger but surprise. "I have always believed that the ones who can truly threaten me in the spatial tide were only limited to those old fellows who have also reached the Primordial realm."


    To have one''s realm reached without a strength breakthrough, Bohan Island Lord was not the only one to deliberately do so in the spatial tide.


    It was just that the spatial tide was just too vast¡­ All Bohan Island Lord interacted with were a mere handful. In their eyes, they were true rivals! Only they could threaten each other''s lives.


    But he never expected that a team of four cultivators who had yet to reach the Primordial realm would be able to make him suffer such a terrible defeat.


    Loss of his avatar could be neglected since it could be cultivated again! But some of his favorite treasures and weapons for combat were gone. This pained his heart.


    "Treasures I''ve accumulated over all these years are now in their hands," thought the white-haired man.


    "However, to be able to fight beyond his level, that archer definitely possesses some unique Dharmic formulations. The cultivation system in their world must be very unique." The white-haired man''s eyes were filled with anticipation. "I wonder if there''s a method to revive Lan Sheng in that world''s cultivation system."


    Although he had many thoughts, Bohan Island Lord did not plan to pursue them.


    Firstly, the treasures he used to kill enemies had been snatched! His strength even suffered a precipitous drop; therefore, staying in his lair was safest.


    Secondly, he had no confidence in dealing with Hou Yi''s nine Essence Soul-burning arrows.


    Thirdly, his flying boat which he had spent so much effort refining was now in the hands of Qin Yun and company. Since they were bent on fleeing, there was no way Bohan Island Lord could intercept them successfully.


    "How should I defend against his ninth arrow?" The white-haired man began thinking.


    ¡­


    "Sou!"


    Qin Yun and company sat on the flying boat and shuttled through the spatial tide.


    "This is really fast, 30% faster than the flying boat the Third Supremacy used." Qin Yun and company were astonished as well.


    "It might even be possible that Bohan Island Lord doesn''t have any faster flying boats," said Kong Xuan with a laugh. "As long as we are careful, that Bohan Island Lord has no way of catching up to us."


    "We must not be careless."


    The pale Hou Yi, who was sitting cross-legged, said, "The Bohan Island''s experts can intercept us on the way. If they succeed in intercepting us, we would be in danger."


    By the side, Palatial Lord Myriad Flower immediately said, "Yes, Bohan Island has unique tracking means. They are able to catch up to enemies every time. This flying boat is Bohan Island Lord''s, so it should be the fastest one he has! Fortunately, your return course cannot be guessed by them."


    "Yes, our course has to be changed frequently," said Kong Xuan with a smile. "Just a slight change would result in billions of kilometers of difference. There''s no way they can lay an ambush. But to do it this way, there''s no way for us to take the fastest possible route back. We will probably take an additional year or two by doing so."


    With the flying boat''s speed, an additional year or two would imply a very great distance.


    "I''d rather make a safe detour lasting a year or two," said Qin Yun. "By the way, the treasures on Bohan Island Lord are probably extraordinary. Let''s check through them carefully. There might be something useful that can instantly raise our strength."


    "Right." Goumang, Kong Xuan, and Hou Yi nodded. "Let''s split the treasures now."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower sat in the corner of the flying boat, with his head turned over.


    Hua!


    The first thing that appeared was Bohan Island Lord''s corpse. The corpse was still wearing the black armor.


    "This armor is very strange." Hou Yi pointed at Bohan Island''s wound. "It''s like it''s a part of his body."


    "Yeah."


    Qin Yun was also looking carefully.


    He also noticed that the armor on Bohan Island was not a Connate Numinous Treasure. Just like a demon could produce scaled armor, Bohan Island Lord''s body had grown such scales. Even his helm was naturally formed.


    "This is a unique cultivation Dharmic formulation," said Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. "Cultivating one''s body is very difficult as the innards are the weakest. Rumor had it that this unique cultivation Dharmic formulation involves infusing the strength of various treasures into one''s skin layer, cultivating the skin into something like armor that can be cultivated to a profound level, just like Bohan Island Lord did. Unfortunately, I''ve only heard of it and have never obtained such a cultivation Dharmic formulation."


    "Take it back and let the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor have a look. Perhaps, this cultivation Dharmic formulation can be understood from a dissection," said Hou Yi.


    What followed were all sorts of treasures.


    Item after item was placed inside the flying boat. Of course, the most treasured collections Bohan Island Lord had were hidden in his homeworld or in Bohan Island! What he carried on him for battle were only combat items.


    The black disc, three sabers, eighteen shields, and a silver thread, together with the flying boat they were on were the most important treasures Bohan Island Lord had carried with him. The other items were of much inferior quality.


    "This disc is a cardinal array formation treasure." Kong Xuan studied it. "It''s good at sealing the void and can form a suppressive domain. It''s much stronger than my domain. Back then, my Five-colored Divine Light was dispelled by it. Thankfully, we were inside the Myriad Flower Palace which helped us fend off this domain."


    Palatial Lord Myriad Flower said helplessly, "My Myriad Flower Palace can only protect those inside of it. It''s not like a cardinal array formation that can be brought out and used anywhere."


    Qin Yun and company nodded slightly.


    A cardinal array formation domain treasure? It was stronger than Kong Xuan''s domain and was a true treasure.


    "I''ve not seen any weapon more baneful than these three sabers in the Three Realms before," added Kong Xuan. "If they were in the hands of the Fiend Ancestor, it would probably bring out even greater might."


    "The eighteen shields are a treasure used to fend against area-of-attack strikes," said Goumang. "It''s peerlessly mystical and can split space-time. It can throw a huge group of enemies into different space-time pockets to be dealt with one by one. However, it''s useless against Hou Yi''s arrows."


    The pale Hou Yi shook his head and said, "His protective mystic art was very powerful. Together with his protective armor, I could only kill him with my ninth arrow by burning my Essence Soul."


    The first arrow he delivered when burning his Essence Soul had already reached the might of the Heavenly Dao realm¡­


    For Bohan Island Lord''s body to be able to withstand the first eight arrows, it showed how terrifying he was. However, the qualitative change in the ninth arrow was something even Bohan Island Lord could not resist.


    "These eighteen shields are very mystical. They can split space-time, and if not for my burning of my Essence Soul, my arrow would not have been able to break through their defenses," said Hou Yi again. "If it was blocked by this shield¡­ weakening my ninth arrow''s might, perhaps the ninth arrow might not have killed Bohan Island Lord''s avatar."


    "This silver thread is extraordinary as well." Qin Yun looked at the thread which was akin to a worldly rope. It seemed capable of capturing every item in the world. "It''s likely best at capturing enemies. Since we were hiding in Myriad Flower Palace, Bohan Island Lord had no chance to use this treasure."


    "Everyone, take a look," said Hou Yi. "What do you want?"


    "Hou Yi, you and Qin Yun should have first dibs," said Kong Xuan immediately. "Goumang and I didn''t do anything just now. It was both of you who were giving your best. You even consumed a Soul Heart Fruit."


    "Let Brother Hou Yi choose first then," said Qin Yun with a smile. "For us to kill the enemy, it was all thanks to Brother Hou Yi''s abilities."


    "Without you defending us¡­ I wouldn''t be able to use my full strength," said Hou Yi. "Let''s do it this way, I''ll take these three sabers. They were the strongest and most precious weapon of Bohan Island Lord."


    Qin Yun and company agreed to that.


    The three sabers were a Connate Cardinal treasure and were extremely baneful as a set. Their value was naturally the highest. If split apart, any one saber''s price was no lesser than the black disc or silver thread.


    "I''ll take these eighteen shields and this flying boat," said Qin Yun. The both added up was close to the three sabers in value.


    "Brother Goumang, you go first," said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    "I''m good at capturing enemies, so I have no need for another treasure that does the same. I want this array formation disc," said Goumang.


    Kong Xuan nodded as well. It was within his expectations. "Then, this silver thread is mine." He was good in domains in the first place. With a cardinal treasure good at capturing enemies, his strength would increase greatly.


    "By the way, Brother Goumang, on the way back, let me study the array disc. I''ll return it to you when we return to the Three Realms. I want to see how is it stronger than my Five-colored Divine Light," said Kong Xuan.


    "Lend me your silver thread for studying on the way back as well," Goumang said with a smile. "I want to see the difference between its capturing methods and mine."


    After the important treasures were split, the remaining treasures were simply split. Qin Yun and Hou Yi each received one portion while Kong Xuan and Goumang shared one portion.


    In fact, the victory against Bohan Island Lord was mainly thanks to Hou Yi and Qin Yun who paid the price of eating a Soul Heart Fruit. The price of a Soul Heart Fruit was about the same as a Connate Cardinal treasure, so Kong Xuan and Goumang were very modest when picking treasures.


    ¡­


    It was very difficult to obtain a single Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms. But on this trip, Hou Yi and company had received several pieces. Furthermore, they obtained divine fruits which did not exist in the Three Realms. Qin Yun also obtained even more treasures divine fruits¡­ This was also the reason why the ancient existences in the Three Realms both feared and looked forward to the spatial tide.


    Entering the spatial tide was indeed dangerous, but there were opportunities.


    For instance, Qin Yun and company had been in peril when facing Bohan Island Lord. Without the divine fruit, they would probably be doomed and become subordinates of Bohan Island Lord. Qin Yun''s transcending of the tribulations would then have to happen in the spatial tide. But now, they had succeeded and returned with a large number of treasures.


    On the way back, they let Palatial Lord Myriad Flower leave.


    Furthermore, Qin Yun and company kept tweaking their course, making impossible for Bohan Island to lay an ambush. After 83 years, Qin Yun and company finally arrived at the Chaos spatial rift.


    "We''re back." Qin Yun looked at the Chaos spatial rift of the Three Realms and heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Sou!"


    The flying boat flew straight into the Chaos spatial rift as they returned to the area under the Three Realms'' control.


    Inside the spatial tide, by the corner of the Chaos spatial rift, three spatial worms appeared. One of them formed the silver-robed man''s projection.


    "This Chaos spatial rift leads to their homeworld?" the silver-robed projection whispered. Following that he disappeared and the three spatial worms hid within the spatial tide, becoming one with it, making it impossible to detect them.

 700 Merit Cardinal treasure Final Chapter of Volume

    Qin Yun and company could not help but feel delighted when they passed through the Chaos spatial rift and sensed the Three Realms from a distance.


    Amid their excitement, there was a lingering fear even as they rejoiced returning safe and sound.


    "During this trip to the spatial tide, we have been taught the lesson how there''s always someone stronger than us," said Hou Yi with a smile. "Even with the four of us joining forces, we were nearly taken down by Bohan Island Lord."


    "We encountered half-step Heavenly Dao realms one after another and up to meeting Bohan Island Lord, Goumang and I could only watch the both of you fight with your lives from the sidelines," said Kong Xuan.


    "It was indeed a harrowing experience. If I do not have a further breakthrough in strength, I won''t head to the spatial tide again," said Qin Yun. "Of course, I have to first transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulation."


    "Brother Qin Yun, if you are unable to transcend it, I''m afraid no Itinerant Immortal in the Three Realms will be able to transcend it in the future," said Goumang. "I''m sure you will survive it."


    Soon.


    Qin Yun separated from the three and they headed for their respective abodes.


    The top existences in the Three Realms instantly detected their return.


    Deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor sensed Qin Yun''s return and felt extremely disappointed.


    "This Qin Yun sure has light shining on him from providence. Wouldn''t it have been nice if he died in the spatial tide?" Fiend Ancestor thought. "In the Three Realms, there''s Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor protecting him. Yet, he returns alive after going to the spatial tide twice. From the looks of it, I can only hope that the Itinerant Immortal tribulation will eventually vanquish him.


    "Only with him dead will us fiends have a chance to thrive in the Three Realms."


    Many people in the Three Realms yearned for Qin Yun to die, and the strongest and most esteemed of them all was the Fiend Supremacy.


    Fiend Ancestor hated him to the bone.


    It was simply because¡­


    Qin Yun was the most enthusiastic at dealing with the fiends among the half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences! It caused the fiend infiltration that had been happening over years to be curbed and destroyed. Now, all they could do was turtle within the fiendish dominion.


    Without Qin Yun dead, the fiends had no chance to making an uprising.


    Many of the Fiend Ancestor''s plans had to be put on hold.


    ¡­


    "Sword Immortal Qin, Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and Goumang headed to the spatial tide together. I wonder what treasures they obtained." Two of the Chaos Three Banes, Hundun and Taowu, happened to be together when they sensed Qin Yun and company''s return.


    "It''s probably quite a good harvest. Perhaps each one of them has a Connate Cardinal treasure." Taowu felt somewhat envious.


    "If Sword Immortal Qin and Hou Yi were willing to bring me, I''d also dare step into the spatial tide," said Hundun.


    Taowu scoffed. "Forget it. With Sword Immortal Qin''s temper, you should count your lucky stars that he isn''t destroying you."


    Hundun shook his head. "You were the one who offended Sword Immortal Qin. I didn''t. My relationship with Sword Immortal Qin is still quite alright."


    "So what if your relationship is alright? It won''t be long before the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation." Taowu shook his head. "I do want to see if Qin Yun is able to transcend it."


    ******


    Across the Three Realms, there were many looking forward to Qin Yun''s early death. Some envied Qin Yun and company, and there were others who were happy at his return. Experts from different factions had different views on this.


    And in the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar.


    After separating from Hou Yi and company, Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "I''m back."


    Qin Yun stood in midair. It was deep at night with stars dotting the sky.


    However, Mt. Lightning Roar was bustling. At the foot of the mountain were stretches of buildings. Even in the night, there were resplendent lights, an indication of its flourishment.


    Ever since the Qin family produced Qin Yule a few thousand years ago, Qin Yun''s lineage began to expand rapidly. Generation after generation of children resulted in a huge number after thousands of years. Many of the line lived at the foot of the mountain with only a small number of elites and cultivation geniuses having the right to live on the mountain.


    And only the ones with extremely high standing could live at the mountaintop.


    After all, that was were the Sword Immortal Qin couple, Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, Qin Yuluo, and Qin Yule''s family lived.


    "Without realizing it, the Qin family has flourished so well." Qin Yun overlooked the area. "There are millions after a few thousand years of proliferation. A cultivation family clan with the number of family members increasing rapidly. I guess I have to thank Yule for this."


    With another step, Qin Yun arrived on the mountaintop.


    On the mountaintop, a faint blue-dressed Yi Xiao was playing the zither which exuded a carefree tune.


    Qin Yun listened by the side and Yi Xiao only sensed his presence when she was done with the tune.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao revealed a look of delight as she stood up. "You''re back."


    "Yes. I won''t be going to the spatial tide any further. I''ll stay at home and prepare for the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "How was the harvest this time?" inquired Yi Xiao.


    "Much better than the last time," said Qin Yun. "Perhaps, I might really obtain eternal life!"


    Yi Xiao nodded with a smile. "Brother Yun, you will definitely succeed."


    Qin Yun stood on the mountaintop, overlooking the flourishing scene as he said wistfully, "The Qin family is becoming more prosperous by the day, and there are even more Qin family descendants who rely on the Qin family. If I were to fail my tribulation and be vanquished, with the grudge the fiends have against me¡­ I''m afraid the Qin family will immediately face a crisis."


    "Brother Yun, didn''t you say that you would succeed in transcending the tribulation to obtain eternal life?" said Yi Xiao.


    "Who can tell the future with absolute certainty? Before transcending the tribulation, I will need to make the arrangements," said Qin Yun. "Of course, the best solution is for me to survive the tribulation."


    Be it for himself, for his family clan, or for Green Touring Palace¡­


    It was even for the continued suppression of the fiends.


    For various reasons, he needed to survive the tribulation.


    If he survived, no amount of anxiety the fiends felt would be of use! His sword would forever suppress the fiends.


    "Let''s do the sacrifice first," said Qin Yun.


    "Did you manage to accumulate enough merit?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "Of course there''s enough." Qin Yun smiled. His harvest this time was just so immense. The bit of merit he lacked had easily been accrued.


    Soon.


    The couple came to a empty land on the mountaintop. Qin Yun waved his hand as three other-universe corpses appeared. They were the array formation envoys from Bohan Island.


    "These three were refined by Bohan Island Lord as puppets. They had lost their own self-will," said Qin Yun.


    "Bohan Island Lord?" Yi Xiao was astonished.


    "He''s a terrifying expert in the spatial tide. He even reached the Heavenly Dao realm but chose not to break through his Essence Soul Dharmic powers so that he could deliberately stay in the spatial tide." Qin Yun smiled. "We were in quite serious danger this time, and nearly failed to return."


    Yi Xiao felt a lingering fear from what she head.


    Qin Yun waved his hand and released his Misty Rain Sword. As the sword beams flitted around, it sliced up the first envoy''s corpse which had been refined to be extremely resilient. However, the Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure''s strength was staggering. In just a few seconds, the first corpse was pulverized as it returned to the land.


    The mysterious powers contained in the lives of the other-universe experts fused with the Three Realms.


    Immediately, merit descended.


    As Merit Gilded Glow blanketed Qin Yun, immense merit surged into his body. Qin Yun nodded his head gently when he felt it. The merit he obtained was of adequate amounts, equivalent to an other-universe perfected Great Dao expert''s corpse.


    "From the looks of it, all three corpses have to be sacrificed to reach the amount needed." Qin Yun continued the sacrifice.


    Moments later.


    After the three envoys'' corpses returned to the Three Realms, immense amount of merit descended upon him.


    "There should be enough this time." Qin Yun extended his hand as the Misty Rain Sword flew back after destroying the three corpses. WIth a thought, all the merit attained was transferred into the Misty Rain Sword.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were looking at the Misty Rain Sword.


    As merit kept surging in, it went from 97% to 98% to 99%¡­


    Finally it reached a certain limit.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yun felt the qualitative change in his Misty Rain Sword as it stirred the entire Three Realms, causing it to tremble. The commotion astounded the mighty figures in the Three Realms.


    "What''s happening?"


    "What happened to the Three Realms?"


    Mighty figures were puzzled.


    As for the Dao Ancestors and the Buddhist Ancestor, they were all very perceptive.


    In Green Touring Palace, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor suddenly opened his eyes and revealed a look of delight. He looked far into the direction of the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar.


    He saw brilliant lusters above the mountain and rainbow merit glows illuminated the area for millions of kilometers as a dazzling spectacle.


    "A Merit Cardinal treasure is born," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor with a chuckle. "Such a treasure is enough to determine the fate of a sect or an entire race."


    (End of Volume)

 701 Preparation Before Seclusion

    In Eight Scenic Palace, Grand Supreme Elderly Lord laughed as well. "First an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure and now a Merit Cardinal treasure. This punk Qin Yun sure is impressive! Perhaps he has a chance to survive the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation after all."


    "The Itinerant Immortal tribulation is a tribulation that descends from the Chaos Heavenly Dao. There is nowhere to hide from it and its strength is most unpredictable." In Jade Void Palace, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning added, "However, there is always chance in everything. With Qin Yun''s present strength, he should be able to transcend it. If even Qin Yun is unable to transcend it, then this path of the Itinerant Immortal is basically a dead end."


    "Haha, Primordial Beginning, it''s truly rare to hear you praise my disciple," said Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure with a laugh.


    "It''s the truth," said Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning.


    ¡­


    In a Great World.


    Two figures were standing side by side on a mountaintop as they looked towards the Heavenly realm.


    "The moment he returned from the spatial tide, the merit he obtained from sacrificing immediately completed his Merit Cardinal treasure. Besides, he, Hou Yi and the rest have probably obtained quite a fair bit of treasure. This really makes me envious and jealous," a yellow-haired elder said with a smile. By his side was God King Zhurong. He frowned slightly for he detested Hou Yi.


    After all, he had been imprisoned for ages, only to suffer an assault by Hou Yi the moment he was freed. Thankfully, he was wise enough to escape after being struck once.


    Zhurong naturally felt the pressure when he thought how Hou Yi would have obtained more treasures on his trip to the spatial tide with Qin Yun.


    The grudge between him and Hou Yi was irreconcilable!


    "Let Qin Yun continue being smug for now. It won''t be long before the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation comes," said Zhurong with a shake of his head. "Besides, no one knows if there will be a thirteenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation¡­ If he were to really die under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, his treasures will have a chance to find a new owner. When the time comes, it would be a question of whose hands his Misty Rain Sword will end up in."


    The yellow-haired elder nodded in agreement. "Once Qin Yun is dead, the Misty Rain Sword will still be a Connate Cardinal Merit Cardinal treasure even in the hands of someone else. Perhaps Green Touring Palace will possess it for a period of time, but once the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are forced to leave the Three Realms, Green Touring Palace will not be able to protect it. All Green Touring Palace has is Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain after all!"


    "Not only the Misty Rain Sword, even the various treasures he obtained from the spatial tide cannot be bequeathed to his family because the Qin family is unable to hold on to any of it," said Zhurong. "The more treasures he has, the more disaster he will invite upon the Qin family."


    "Yes, it will only invite disaster." The elder nodded.


    "You are probably one of the few watching the Qin family, right?" Zhurong asked with a smile.


    The elder chuckled and said, "I do admit I''m tempted, but the fiends would probably take action before me."


    Zhurong nodded. "Let''s not talk about these things any longer. Have we come to an agreement on the matter we talked about previously?"


    "Yes, let''s agree to it. Since I''ve benefited from you, I''ll definitely do the job." The elder nodded.


    Zhurong nodded before leaving the Great World with one step.


    The elder frowned and looked towards the Heavenly realm. "Qin Yun? Qin family? He has entered the spatial tide twice, so he must have quite a fair bit of treasures. Unfortunately, too many people are targeting him. They are all waiting for him to die, so it''s unlikely I''ll be able to obtain any of his treasures."


    ******


    News of Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword, the Misty Rain Sword, becoming a Merit Cardinal treasure quickly spread through the Three Realms. However, Qin Yun did not feel complacent because of it; instead, he felt pressure.


    The Qin family was now impressive! It had astounding treasures! If he were to fail to transcend the tribulations and perish, it would only lead to trouble for the Qin family!


    On the same day.


    Qin Yun secretly came to Green Touring Palace.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed respectfully.


    The Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure smiled as he looked at his disciple. He was very pleased that he could recruit such a disciple before he left the Three Realms. The only matter that left him exasperated was¡­ that his disciple had chosen to transcend the tribulations to become an Itinerant Immortal to risk his life against Star Destruction, all so he could save the billions of lives in his homeworld instead of escaping. Although he had saved the billions of lives of his homeworld, he now faced the numerous Itinerant Immortal tribulations.


    Of course, although he appeared exasperated on the surface, he liked such a disciple even more deep down.


    "I encountered great danger in my trip to the spatial tide this time," said Qin Yun. "I met an enemy known as Bohan Island Lord. In terms of realm, he had already reached the Heavenly Dao realm! He only chose not to break through his Essence Soul Dharmic powers so that he could deliberately stay in the spatial tide."


    "Reached the Heavenly Dao realm?" Numinous Treasure was astonished as well. "Then, how did you deal with him?"


    Qin Yun said politely, "In his long stay in the spatial tide, he has cultivated in many body cultivation Dharmic formulations, so he was extremely powerful. I ignited my Essence Soul to barely stall for time while Hou Yi ignited his Essence Soul to shoot nine consecutive arrows. Finally, his ninth arrow managed to kill him, but of course, it was merely the enemy''s avatar."


    Numinous Treasure was somewhat shocked. "I''m aware of the nine arrows Hou Yi can shoot when he ignites his Essence Soul. But wouldn''t he fall into a slumber after casting it?"


    Hou Yi''s strength was not doubted by anyone in the Three Realms.


    At the same realm¡­ it was a complete trouncing.


    However, against the Dao Ancestors and the rest, Hou Yi''s protective means were too weak; and it was a fatal flaw.


    Hou Yi could consecutively deliver his arrows to kill the expert in the spatial tide all thanks to Qin Yun''s all-encompassing, along with Kong Xuan and Goumang''s help from the side.


    "We obtained a rare treasure that can restore our Essence Soul in the spatial tide, which prevented Hou Yi from falling into a slumber." Qin Yun waved his hand as a corpse appeared in the hall. "This is that Bohan Island Lord''s corpse. Master, look at the armor he wears."


    "Oh?" Numinous Treasure looked in curiosity.


    An other-universe expert who had similarly reached the Heavenly Dao realm had to have brilliant mystic arts even if his Essence Soul Dharmic powers had yet to break through.


    Numinous Treasure could tell at a glance.


    The interior of the body was rather ordinary, comparable to typical perfected Great Dao existences. The only unique thing was the armor on his body.


    "His armor is actually formed from a unique cultivation Dharmic formulation." Numinous Treasure could tell instantly as he said in surprise, "With the Dharmic powers of a Golden Immortal, he cultivated an armor that can withstand the all-out Hou Yi''s first eighth arrows? If he had broken through his Dharmic powers, this armor would probably have become even tougher."


    "This armor is indeed extraordinary," said Qin Yun. "Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, Goumang and I were also studying it on the way back, but we failed to understand it."


    "It''s obvious the lot of you can''t understand it. This armor contains mystic charms that have reached the Heavenly Dao realm. Yes, this method is indeed different from anything in our Three Realms." Numinous Treasure was quite surprised from studying the body. "A very unique defensive technique. I can get Primordial Beginning and Elderly Lord come to take a look as well. If we can figure out some Dharmic formulations, it will add one more lineage to our Three Realms."


    Qin Yun also understood.


    To fully "restore" a Heavenly Dao realm exterior armor Dharmic formulation with just a mere corpse was highly unlikely. But it was ultimately a Heavenly Dao realm mystic technique. He believed that it would aid the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor.


    His master and the rest had to leave the Three Realms in the future; therefore, every bit of help counted.


    "Then, I shall take my leave," said Qin Yun.


    "Thank you for this. When you are back, prepare for your impending tribulation in peace. After all, there''s only a couple hundred years left," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Yes," said Qin Yun politely.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar again.


    The night had passed and the sun rose, scattering its sunlight through the windows onto a desk.


    Qin Yun was sitting in front of his desk, reading the sword technique manuals he had previously written as he thought, "I only have one of the most precious Spirit Enlightening Fruits I obtained in the spatial tide. I have to use it when it''s most appropriate. I''m in no hurry to enter seclusion. I should first spend some time tidying up and curating the Sword Dao I''ve cultivated to date and write a complete Misty Rain Sword Dao manual. Even if I were to die in the future, this sword manual can be passed down.


    "Furthermore, by tidying up everything and writing a complete Misty Rain Sword Dao manual, I will be able to use the Spirit Enlightening Fruit to enter a state of epiphany, making the effects even better.


    "I still have eight hundred years left.


    "There''s enough time."


    After determining a plan, Qin Yun calmed his heart and scrutinized his Sword Dao as he began writing a complete Misty Rain Sword Dao manual with full focus.

 702 Spirit Enlightening Frui

    Cultivation knew no time. As Qin Yun focused on writing the Misty Rain Sword Dao, 126 years passed in a blink of an eye.


    Those 126 years¡­ were his most leisurely days. Every day, he would accompany his wife for a stroll, advise Meng Huan, Qin Yiyi, Qin Yuluo, his nine-tailed fox disciple, Qing Shuang, and others. Although he was giving pointers on the surface, he was constantly pondering over the profundity of the Misty Rain Sword Dao in his mind. In the evening, he would write the Misty Rain Sword Dao manual alone in his study.


    These days were extremely rare for the Qin family and Qin Yun''s disciples.


    "Tian Huang, you are really a blockhead. You still can''t understand?" Qin Yun bellowed in frustration.


    "Master, calm down. Calm down," a stout man with thick brows said with a flattering smile. "I''m a little stupid. Give me some time to think about it and I''ll definitely figure it out."


    Tian Huang was one of the three disciples he had taken in when he established the Misty Rain Sword Gallery in a tiny Southern Nation in the Heavenly realm. He had also left three Sword Dao heritage for his three disciples and instructed them to seek him out when they cultivated to the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm. But to date¡­ only Tian Huang, who appeared to be the most simple and honest, had been the first to reach the sixth firmament Skyimmortal realm.


    At this realm, he easily learned of the illustrious Mt. Lightning Roar in the Heavenly realm. Tian Huang was shocked when he learned that his master was Sword Immortal Qin.


    Sword Immortal Qin had swept through countless fiends of the Three Realms with his strength alone.


    He was undoubtedly the strongest sword immortal in the Three Realms!


    "Among the three of you, I thought most highly of Jin Yu. I never expected that you would break through first while they remained stuck in the third firmament," said Qin Yun. "I''ve been teaching you a lot more these days, so I have been increasingly demanding on you. There''s no need to be anxious. Remember what I teach you and slowly take it in and figure it out."


    "Yes, Master," replied Tian Huang obediently.


    "For the next few centuries, I''ll be entering seclusion and wouldn''t have to time to teach you any more," said Qin Yun.


    "Seclusion for a few centuries?" Tian Huang was taken aback.


    He obviously knew that his master was an Itinerant Immortal and that he had about slightly more than six centuries to his twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    If he entered seclusion for a few centuries, wouldn''t'' it mean that he would be transcending the tribulations once he exited seclusion?


    "What should have been taught to you has been taught. I''m just unsure if I still have the chance to teach Jin Yu and Fan Yong." Qin Yun said as he turned to leave.


    "Master, you will definitely have a chance," said Tian Huang immediately. He had been under Qin Yun''s tutelage from the age of six. He treated his master as his father, so he naturally did not wish for his master to die from a failed tribulation.


    ¡­


    In the days before Qin Yun entered seclusion, he taught Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, Qin Yuluo, and Qing Shuang a lot. After all, he feared he might no longer have the time to teach them before his tribulation.


    "Brother Yun, you should enter seclusion. Why are you spending so much time and effort to teach them?" Yi Xiao could not help but ask. "Just leave the cultivation manual for them. Your cultivation is of utmost importance."


    "How can the self-enlightenment from a manual compare with a master''s teachings?" Qin Yun said. "Unfortunately, I haven''t figured out a Great Dao for the Dao of Yin Yang, so I have no way of teaching Qing Shuang a path that can lead to the Golden Immortal Great Dao."


    A long time ago, Qin Yun had already reached the Skyimmortal bottleneck of the Dao of Yin Yang. But now, he still remained stuck at the bottleneck. Qin Yun had taught quite a number of sword arts from the Yin Yang Dao to his female disciple Qing Shuang, and many of them had a might that barely reached the Golden Immortal realm. However, it ultimately failed to become a Great Dao sword art as his Yin Yang Dao had failed to reach the level of a Great Dao.


    "You have already done very well. Many masters don''t put in that much effort," Yi Xiao said.


    "Xiaoxiao, I can''t predict how long I''ll take for the coming seclusion." Qin Yun looked at his wife. "After all, once I enter a state of epiphany, I won''t be able to keep track of time. I might even exit seclusion just before the tribulation."


    "Your seclusive cultivation is most important." Yi Xiao was filled with worry.


    The appointed time was approaching.


    Could Brother Yun transcend¡­ the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation?


    "I''ll leave everything to you." Qin Yun hugged his wife gently as Yi Xiao hugged him back.


    After a long while¡­


    Qin Yun let go of his wife and turned to enter a chamber.


    The door to the chamber closed.


    Yi Xiao stood outside the door watching while Qin Yun had already sat cross-legged inside the chamber.


    ¡­


    The 126 years he spent organizing and writing the Misty Rain Sword Dao manual made Qin Yun completely review everything he knew. He even gained an understanding of the direction he should take for his Sword Dao. If he had long periods for cultivation, he could take it slow. However, he did not have much time left.


    "Spirit Enlightening Fruit."


    Qin Yun stretched out his hand as a translucent fruit floated above his palm. It had a lustrous swirl around it and the fruit''s flesh could be seen clearly.


    This was Spirit Enlightening Fruit¡­ the most precious divine fruit even in the legends of the spatial tide. Countless other-universe cultivators were crazy over it.


    "Time to begin." Qin Yun opened his mouth and gobbled the fruit whole. The flesh melted away in his mouth as a strange sweetness and sourness emanated in his mouth. A formless energy surged at his Essence Soul.


    Qin Yun only felt his spirits jolted.


    It was even more miraculous than cultivating in his master''s Myriad Dharma Pool. Qin Yun only felt that his Essence Soul had entered a special state.


    And at that moment, all his thoughts from the past 126 years rapidly came together and formed new ideas! With these thoughts arising, he came to new levels of understanding!


    The state of epiphany.


    That was a flash of brilliance that would happen after years of accumulation, allowing one to figure out all kinds of profound mysteries.


    The Spirit Enlightening Fruit was indeed a heaven-defying item.


    How was it heaven-defying?


    For instance, beneath the Chaos Heavenly Dao, the cultivation of an avatar would result in damaging the main body.


    As for splitting the Essence Soul into two? That was damaging one''s Essence Soul foundations to obtain a second life.


    As for the Mental Demon lineage, they had many avatars, but their overall strength was shared. An avatar could be strong, but in turn, another avatar would be weak. Yet, this was already means that countless cultivators in the Three Realms envied.


    However, the Chaos Origins Fruit was able to break the rules of the Chaos Heavenly Dao. It could cultivate an equally powerful avatar without damaging the actual body.


    That was heaven-defying!


    The Spirit Enlightening Fruit was the same. The state of epiphany was only obtained by chance. One typically had an epiphany once certain fortuitous conditions aligned. Furthermore, the stronger one was, the chances of entering a state of epiphany decreased. Most perfected Great Dao existences and even the most powerful half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences did not even have epiphanies. Just raising their strength a little was extremely difficult.


    Yet, the Spirit Enlightening Fruit could forcefully make one enter a state of epiphany. It was no wonder Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and Goumang all wanted it. It was the fruit they desired the most among the three.


    Later, it was only because Hou Yi and Qin Yun had done the most that they each obtained one.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun sat cross-legged in his chamber as insights came flooding to him. His Misty Rain Sword Dao kept producing new insights which he fused into it.


    Many sword arts surfaced in his mind.


    Finally, his insights caused a qualitative change as a brand new sword art surfaced in his mind. This sword art was extremely pointed. A three-inch-sword could kill every enemy, extremely unyielding and indomitably sharp. With it, one was invincible.


    "The Dao of Supreme Yang."


    He felt somewhat delighted as he figured out a pinnacle Great Dao of Supreme Yang.


    However, his various insights continued organizing themselves as Qin Yun completely immersed himself in his state of epiphany.


    Years passed as Qin Yun remained in his state of epiphany in seclusion¡­


    In a blink of an eye, five centuries had passed.

 703 Enhancemen

    After entering a state of epiphany, all the problems that previously stumped him during cultivation were rapidly resolved. He overcame his bottlenecks and enjoyed a rapid improvement.


    In the first year of his seclusion, he overcame a bottleneck and figured out a pinnacle Great Dao¡ªthe Dao of the Supreme Yang.


    In the eighth year of his seclusion, he figured out another pinnacle Great Dao¡ªDao of the Supreme Yin.


    Following that, it was the enhancement of the Misty Rain Array.


    The core of the Misty Rain Array previously was the fusion of the Seven Stars Great Dao and the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth and Man. He had also drawn on the charms of the other-universe Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers. As he needed to rely on the Misty Rain Array to survive the Itinerant Immortal tribulation, Qin Yun had been spending most of his efforts in the past few millennia on it. He naturally had many ideas about how to further it, but many questions arose as well. Many of them came from the Heavenly Dao realm''s bloodline powers. He too had referenced the Pangu bloodline powers, but similarly, that brought about many more questions.


    In his state of epiphany, many of these problems were resolved.


    He gained new insight in the fusion of the Seven Stars Great Dao and the Great Dao of Heaven, Man and Earth. The effects of the fusion became better.


    He had more insights towards the Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers, as well as tiny amounts of insight towards the Pangu bloodline powers.


    These naturally fused into the Misty Rain Array, causing the Misty Rain Array to constantly metamorphosize.


    ¡­


    In the chamber, a faint fragrance emanated.


    Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged, had been in that state for five centuries. At that moment, his eyelids quivered slightly before he opened his eyes.


    "The epiphany has ended after just this short while?" Qin Yun muttered. With a thought, he figured out the current time through the river of time and ended up laughing at himself. "It''s been five centuries? Time while being in a state of epiphany passes just too quickly."


    At times, one would feel that time passes very slowly.


    At other times, one would feel that time passes very quickly. It was the same when in the state of epiphany.


    A mind would find itself adrift for a moment, and in a blink, five centuries would past.


    It was like A Golden Millet Dream, but the cultivation and insights during this dream were real and not illusory.


    "I''ve figured out the Dao of Supreme Yang and the Dao of Supreme Yin in these five centuries. My insights into the other-universe Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers have been increased dozens of times. Its fusion with the Seven Stars Great Dao and Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man has become more miraculous. It has greatly increased my Misty Rain Array''s strength." Qin Yun revealed a look of delight. "Even my offensive moves have been strengthened by 50%. My sword array''s defenses have been enhanced by more than one time."


    At his realm, the improvement of even a sliver was very difficult.


    Although he had not spent a lot of effort on his offensive means in the past, he had still figured out a thing or two. With him being a sword immortal who was supposed to be good at the offensive, the state of epiphany easily rose his offensive means by 50%.


    In the aspect of defense, Qin Yun had spent the most efforts there, so the improvement was most stark.


    "What a pity."


    "I previously believed that it''s impossible for me to figure out a perfected Great Dao in a short period of time. Although I spent some effort in the Dao of Yin and Yang, I didn''t accumulate much insight in them." Qin Yun shook his head. "This time, I only managed to figure out the Dao of Supreme Yang and Supreme Yin, but failed to fuse the two Dao together."


    Supreme Yin and Supreme Yang together with the fusion of Yin Yang.


    The three fused together¡­


    That was the Great Dao of Yin and Yang!


    "But even so, the Dao of Supreme Yin and Dao of Supreme Yang are very important to me." Qin Yun had a look of anticipation in his eyes. "Back when Pangu split the universe, that was the mark of a primordial beginning. The universe split into Yin and Yang. When the two came together, it formed Lightning, Wind, sunlight, rain, and all the myriad elements. The way the Myriad Things in the Heaven and Earth operate is key. They naturally can be fused into my Sword Dao. Furthermore, it will provide great help to my Sword Dao as well.


    "Unfortunately, my state of epiphany has ended. What follows is for me to slowly figure it out myself."


    "Thankfully, I still have a century or so before the tribulation."


    Qin Yun continued cultivating.


    His goal this time was to enhance the Misty Rain Array by fusing the two Great Dao of Supreme Yin and Supreme Yang with the Seven Stars Great Dao and the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    ******


    "That Sword Immortal Qin isn''t far from transcending his tribulation, right?" In the Heavenly Courts, two mighty figures were flying beside each other on clouds as they chatted.


    "I did the calculations. There''s still 51 years before his twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    "51 years¡­ it will pass very quickly. I wonder if Sword Immortal Qin will successfully transcend the tribulation or not. Many fellow Daoists have said that, based on the might of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation might very well require the Heavenly Dao realm to defend against it."


    "There is always a silver lining in the Heavenly Dao. The Itinerant Immortal tribulation shouldn''t be that powerful."


    "Let''s see how it plays out. This is a matter of great importance in all of the Three Realms."


    The two mighty figures flew past while conversing.


    ¡­


    As the day of Qin Yun''s tribulation approached, many mighty figures in the Three Realms would often mention Sword Immortal Qin. Even many Skyimmortals and Skyfiends knew that Sword Immortal Qin''s twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation was approaching! Even the lofty Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were paying attention to Qin Yun, especially Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. After all, Qin Yun was his disciple, the disciple who was most qualified to inherit the title of sect master of the Green Touring Palace.


    However, no one could help Qin Yun. Similarly, no one could stop Qin Yun.


    Under the Itinerant Immortal tribulations¡­


    No one tried to mess things up for involving themselves might similarly result in them suffering the Heavenly Tribulation.


    "Why isn''t Father out of seclusion?" In Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin Manor, Meng Huan had stayed in the manor all this time. He was worried for his father. "There''s 39 years left to the tribulation. Is Father going to wait to the last day before the tribulation?"


    Once cultivators decided on the moment to exit seclusion, even if they were in an epiphany, they would awaken when the time came. Therefore, it was impossible to miss the timing.


    "Brother Meng." The nine-tailed fox, Qing Shuang, greeted him when she saw him drinking alone.


    "Sister Qing Shuang." Meng Huan nodded slightly.


    Although Qing Shuang was considered Qin Yun''s eldest disciple, be it the moment when she became Qin Yun''s disciple or actual age, she was much younger than Meng Huan or Qin Yiyi.


    "Brother Meng, you have been drinking frequently recently. This isn''t like you," said Qing Shuang with a smile.


    "Isn''t like me?" Meng Huan asked. "What am I like?"


    "When it comes to diligence when cultivating, you are much better than us. You spend most of the day practicing your swordplay, but recently, you have been drinking frequently. I almost never see you practicing your swordplay anymore."


    "I can''t calm my heart." Meng Huan took another swig at his alcohol. "The closer it is to the day of Father''s tribulation, the harder it is for me to calm my heart."


    "Brother Meng, what kind of figure is Master? He is someone who suppressed the fiends in the Three Realms alone. He will definitely be able to transcend the tribulation."


    "Yeah," responded Meng Huan.


    Qing Shuang sighed regretfully. Concern had left his emotions in chaos. Over the past few days, her master''s wife, Brother Meng, Qin Yiyi, and the rest were not in the best of states.


    "Oh?"


    Meng Huan suddenly turned his head upon sensing something. "Father is out?"


    With a flash, he vanished.


    "Master is out?" Qing Shuang rushed over as well.


    ¡­


    A group of people came to welcome Qin Yun.


    When Qin Yun looked upon everyone, he saw his parents. Since the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation was approaching, Qin Liehu and his wife rushed over from the Great Chang world. Their son was Sword Immortal Qin who was famous in the Three Realms, but he was ultimately their son, so they were worried for him. Of course, the couple had long become carefree Skyimmortals because of their son.


    In the Three Realms, there was more than one treasure that allowed one to become a Skyimmortal immediately. Obtaining them was naturally not difficult for Qin Yun.


    Aside from his parents, even his wife had become a half-step mighty figure thanks to the Ancestral Dragon Crystal.


    "Father, Mother, the both of you came from the Great Chang world?" Qin Yun immediately said.


    "We know that the day of your tribulation is approaching. Although we don''t wish to affect you, we still thought of coming. Therefore, we sought Divine Firmament Chapter''s Ancestral Master Zhang to send us here," said Qin Liehu. By the side, Changlan said, "You don''t have to bother with us. Just ease your mind and prepare for the tribulation."


    Qin Yun smiled. "There''s not much left to do. I can bring the both of you on a tour of the Heavenly realm. It''s much bigger than the Great Chang world and many places worth visiting."


    Indeed.


    Having cultivated to this stage, he was only 39 years away from transcending his tribulation. It was not possible for him to enhance himself any further in those short 39 years.


    As long as he settled some miscellaneous matters and arranged everything for his family, he could face the tribulation with peace of mind.

 704 Disciple Selection

    With only 39 years left to Qin Yun''s twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation, Qin Liehu and his wife, who had lived long, comfortable lives, did not wish to occupy any of their son''s precious time, nor did they have the mood to go jaunting.


    Mt. Lightning Roar. Qin Manor. When the morning sun scattered its rays into the garden, it accentuated the beauty of the flowers.


    Qin Yun was focused on reading by a stone table inside the garden.


    "Brother Yun. Didn''t you finish writing the third volume of the Misty Rain Sword Dao when you were in seclusion? Why are you still writing?" Yi Xiao walked over.


    "This is the sword immortal Dharmic formulation," said Qin Yun with a smile. "In the Three Realms, sword immortals only have one complete Dharmic formulation that allows them to successfully cultivate to the Golden Immortal realm, that of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. As for the Dharmic formulation I created, I couldn''t complete even a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation because of my low realm back then. This resulted in me becoming an Itinerant Immortal. Now, since I have time, I naturally need to complete the sword immortal Dharmic formulation."


    "Why does it matter if you complete it?"


    "The Essence Soul Dharmic formulation has been improved on the original foundation. The Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation should have a 99% chance of success," said Qin Yun with a smile.


    "99%?" Yi Xiao was astonished. "Brother Yun, at your realm, shouldn''t it be 100%?"


    "I also believe that it should be 100%, but no one has successfully cultivated it before," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "So I need to be humble and call it 99%. What I''m now working hard on is having the Dharmic formulation go from Skyimmortal to Golden Immortal. After attaining a perfected Great Dao, I''m more than 90% confident of this Golden Immortal Dharmic formulation! During the epiphany I had in seclusion, I gained quite significant insight into the Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers. I''m now more than 95% confident in this Golden Immortal Dharmic formulation."


    As he spoke, Qin Yun finished writing the last paragraph in the Dharmic formulation.


    "Alright, this Dharmic formulation is done." Qin Yun looked at the terrifying sword intent contained within the manual in satisfaction. "From this day forth, the Three Realms has my Misty Rain sword immortal lineage apart from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. From mortality to Golden Immortal."


    Only with a complete Dharmic formulation could he be comparable to the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage.


    "In the future, a copy of my Sword Dao manual and sword immortal Dharmic formulation will be left in Green Touring Palace," said Qin Yun. "Like Senior Sister Blackfoal Mountain and the others, all of them have left their best Great Dao concepts in Green Touring Palace.


    "Of course, these are all fundamental Dharmic formulations. Things like the Seven Stars Sword Dao, the Supreme Yin Sword Dao, the Supreme Yang Sword Dao, the Misty Rain Sword¡­ are derivation arts, so there''s no need for them to be left in Green Touring Palace," Qin Yun said. "These derived arts will be exclusive to my Mt. Lightning Roar. In the future, it can be passed down to the Qin family descendants and disciples.


    Yi Xiao nodded. "Brother Yun, the sword immortal lineage you created condenses a Essence Soul in human form, while the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage uses a sword form which is rather unorthodox. Hence¡­ ours is considered more orthodox. Unfortunately, no one has cultivated the sword immortal Dharmic formulation you created."


    "That''s right." Qin Yun felt mixed emotions.


    His years of cultivation allowed him to create a lineage that could match the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. It was something he was proud of, and something he had put in blood and tears into it.


    However, he had no one to take up his mantle.¡­


    While people like Qin Yuluo, Tian Huang, Meng Huan, and his other disciples and family, seemed like obvious choices and were indeed good at sword arts, none of them were sword immortals. After all, Qin Yun did not create a complete sword immortal Dharmic formulation early on.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun waved his hand as space-time distorted, allowing him to connect to a distant void.


    There was a silver-haired elder reading through books with a large pile of books beside him.


    "Senior Brother Qin." The silver-haired elder stood up immediately when he saw Qin Yun.


    "Junior Brother Hu, help me check if there are any sword immortal geniuses in the Three Realms who are stuck in the mortal realm," Qin Yun requested. "The sword immortal lineage I created requires a few disciples."


    "Senior Brother Qin, rest assured that I''ll do it for you. Our Green Touring Palace will spare no expense at scouring the Three Realms for sword immortal geniuses," said the silver-haired elder immediately. Green Touring Palace was a powerful faction in the Three Realms, spreading across numerous Great Worlds and countless Small Worlds. There were naturally people in Green Touring Palace who handled such trifling matters. This Junior Brother Hu was in charge of gathering intelligence.


    The space-time continuum restored to normal.


    Qin Yun smiled at Yi Xiao. "How about it? I''ll soon find a suitable disciple."


    "To think you came up with the idea of getting Green Touring Palace to search the Three Realms for you," said Yi Xiao with a laugh.


    "Just being a little capricious." Qin Yun msed. "Although I''m very confident in my Dharmic formulation, I still wish to see a junior master it. Since we''re searching the entire Three Realms for a sword immortal genius, I believe becoming a Skyimmortal in a short period of time wouldn''t be difficult."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s instruction made the Green Touring Palace''s intelligence department do its best to gather information. Some sword immortal geniuses who were astounding in Small Worlds were rather mediocre when placed in a dominion. There were few who were truly stunning in the Three Realms.


    In just two days, a report was delivered to Qin Yun.


    Through a warped spatial passageway, a dossier flew out. The silver-haired elder said politely, "Senior Brother Qin, recorded in the dossier are nineteen sword immortal geniuses of the Three Realms who are stuck in the mortal realm. All of them cultivate in the sword immortal Dharmic formulation and are unable to switch to other Dharmic formulations."


    "Alright." Qin Yun received the dossier.


    The spatial passageway disappeared as Qin Yun looked through them carefully.


    Nineteen geniuses¡­


    Some came from the Heavenly realm while others came from the various dominions.


    "Bian Hanyu?" Upon seeing the report, he immediately had a karmic connection. Qin Yun looked up and into the distance and saw the woman named Bian Hanyu in a distant Great World.


    As he looked at the woman, he easily saw the girl''s history spanning nearly 500 years.


    In front of an existence like Qin Yun, even an ordinary mighty figure could not hide their history, much less a mortal.


    Time flew by.


    "Brother Yun, what are you looking at?" Yi Xiao walked in with some tea.


    "It''s the report regarding the sword immortal geniuses in the Three Realms," said Qin Yun. "I will view the past of every sword immortal genius on this dossier through the river of time. After all, the intelligence gathered was through the factions under Green Touring Palace. The details cannot be fully trusted."


    "How is it?" asked Yi Xiao.


    "I''ve gone through all of them, and I''m quite pleased with two of them," Qin Yun said with a laugh. "One of them is a female sword immortal named Bian Hanyu, the other is a young sword immortal named Yu Gufeng."


    Yi Xiao picked up the dossier and read through it. She quickly found Bian Hanyu''s and Yu Gufeng''s records and said in astonishment,"This Bian Hanyu is almost 500 years old. She''s almost at the end of her life?"


    Mortal Connate Golden Cores could only live up to 500 years.


    "Yes, she is the one with the highest realm among the nineteen sword immortal geniuses. She has already reached the mid-stage Skyimmortal realm," Qin Yun said. "Many immortals are in good standing with her, having agreed to watch over her once she reincarnates."


    "This Yu Gufeng is very good as well. In just two hundred years of cultivation, his realm is already at the early stages of the Skyimmortal realm," Yi Xiao said.


    "Let''s go and take a look at these two," Qin Yun said with a smile.


    Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up. "Alright, let''s go."


    The two vanished from the study and headed for a distant Great World.


    In the Nine Mills Great World, a nameless lake.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao appeared out of thin air.


    "This is Bian Hanyu." Qin Yun looked into the distance where there was a bamboo hut by the side of the lake. In front of the hut was a black-robed woman leisurely reading. By her feet was a black cat with glistening fur which was sleeping soundly. In her arms was a fat tabby cat, and in by the side of the lake, there was a snow-white cat attempting to catch fish.


    "She''s quite fond of cats. These three cats are all cat demons," Yi Xiao said. "They are already at the Essence Soul realm."


    "That''s why Bian Hanyu is also known as Sword Immortal Cat," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "You came with the purpose of being her master; who knows if she''s willing to take you as her master," quipped Yi Xiao.


    Qin Yun was slightly startled.


    News of him transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulation was spread even among Skyimmortals and Skyfiends. Since Bian Hanyu had acquaintances at the Skyimmortal realm, she naturally knew of Sword Immortal Qin. Would she be willing to become the disciple of Sword Immortal Qin who was about to experience the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation?


    "We''ll know in a while if she''s agreeable to it." Qin Yun walked with his wife over.

 705 Two Lineages of Sword Immortals

    Bian Hanyu did not notice Qin Yun and Yi Xiao coming over.


    She held a book in one hand, with the tabby cat in her the other. She had her head lower as she stroked the cat''s fur.


    "There''s little time left before I die. What I should do has been done. I have lived this life without regrets. Well¡­ there are still regrets. I was once young and swore to avenge my family, get revenge for those 103 lives. Later did I learn that it was the result of a mighty figure''s rage. My oath appears comical and is an overestimation of my abilities." Bian Hanyu mocked herself.


    In the eyes of many cultivators, mighty figures were formidable beings that could be the guests of Jade Emperor and Queen Mother.


    Her oath of killing the mighty figure for revenge was an overestimation of her abilities and laughable.


    Bian Hanyu had made the oath when she was young, but after cultivating for centuries and acquainting herself with many Skyimmortals, she realized how big the gap between her and a mighty figure was.


    "Apart from that one regret¡­"


    Bian Hanyu looked at her hands. "I still have one more regret. After I''m dead, although fellow Daoists have agreed to receive me and help me awaken to switch to other Dharmic formulations, I would no longer be a real flying sword immortal."


    "It''s been nearly 500 years. Am I ultimately abandoning this path?"


    Bian Hanyu warmly stroked the fat tabby cat''s fur as emotions surged through her heart.


    Over the five hundred years of cultivation, the sword had become a part of her life. She had entrusted too much of her feelings to it. Through Green Touring Palace''s search of sword immortal geniuses in the Three Realms, only two had eventually caught Qin Yun''s eye! For Bian Hanyu to be one of the two that caught his eye in the entire Three Realms, she had definitely invested immensely in the sword to attain such recognition.


    Now that she had to abandon being a sword immortal and switch to other Dharmic formulations, she naturally felt rather unwilling.


    "I once saw a Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage disciple. My Sword Dao insights are sufficiently high, enough for me to become their disciple. But for some reason¡­ The Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage doesn''t wish to accept me," thought Bian Hanyu. "The legendary Sword Immortal Qin created his own Essence Soul Dharmic formulation, but I''ve never heard of anyone cultivating his sword immortal Dharmic formulation. There''s no way to even try to be his disciple.


    "From the looks of it, I am no longer fated to be a sword immortal. Fine, whatever. What else can still weigh me down?" Bian Hanyu suddenly sensed the two figures that were approaching her.


    It was a man and woman who looked like an immortal couple.


    When they walked, the entire world seemed to bow before them. They looked like rulers of the world.


    This formless influence left Bian Hanyu alarmed. "I''ve once seen a half-step Golden Immortal from afar, but in terms of might, the difference from these two is huge."


    "Greetings Seniors, I''m Bian Hanyu." Bian Hanyu immediately stood up and bowed reverently. The three cat demons prostrated themselves, clearly afraid as well.


    "I''ve heard of your name, Sword Immortal Hanyu." Qin Yun smiled at the woman while Yi Xiao observed carefully from the side.


    "Senior, in front of you, a mortal like me wouldn''t dare call myself sword immortal," said Bian Hanyu reverently.


    Qin Yun nodded. "I come from Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar. My name is Qin Yun."


    Bian Hanyu was taken aback.


    Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar? Wasn''t that the residence of the legendary Sword Immortal Qin?


    Qin Yun?


    Isn''t that Sword Immortal Qin''s name?


    Sword Immortal Qin''s legend had long spread throughout the Three Realms. He had once slain the founding patriarch, Patriarch Spirit Devouring, of the spirit-devouring lineage, deemed as the fiend among fiends! Not only did he slay a patriarch fiend, he had suppressed the fiends with his sword alone, eliminating numerous Skyfiends, causing the fiends to retreat into the fiendish dominions. As such, none of the other dominions in the Three Realms had signs of fiends anymore.


    This alone was incredible! Countless Skyimmortals were astonished by this for it was once a upon a time that the fiends terrorized all over the Three Realms.


    "Senior, you are Sword Immortal Qin?" Bian Hanyu was somewhat in a daze.


    "In Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar, none of my Qin family''s juniors dare to call themselves Sword Immortal Qin," said Qin Yun. Ever since he shocked the Three Realms, although many of the Qin family juniors had cultivated in a Sword Dao, they had all sorts of titles, such as Fairy Yuluo, but none of them called themselves Sword Immortal Qin. None of the Qin family juniors dared to do so, much less others who had no blood ties to the Qin family.


    Qin Yun continued, "I''ve created a sword immortal Dharmic formulation that can be cultivated to the Golden Immortal realm. I came today to take you in as my disciple. Are you willing?"


    Bian Hanyu''s eyes lit up.


    Sword immortal?


    Sword Immortal Qin was coming to her to recruit her personally?


    Bian Hanyu immediately plopped to the ground and kowtowed reverently, "Greetings, Master!"


    "Good, get up." Qin Yun smiled. There were only two in the Three Realms who caught his eye. For her to take him in as her master so straightforwardly pleased him.


    "See that?" Qin Yun looked at Yi Xiao beside him. "She''s still willing to take me as her master."


    "Look at how smug you are." Yi Xiao laughed.


    Following that, Qin Yun said to Bian Hanyu, "This is my wife. If there''s nothing holding you back, you can leave with me now."


    "Greetings, Master Matron," greeted Bian Hanyu reverently. "I have little of my lifespan left. I can naturally leave now."


    Following that, Bian Hanyu looked at the three cat demons beside her. "The three of you, cultivate well. I''ll return if I succeed in my cultivation." Although the three cat demons were unwilling to part with her, they did not dare say as much in the face of the legendary Sword Immortal Qin. All they said was, "Mistress, don''t forget us."


    "Mistress, you must return."


    After a short conversation, the three Essence Soul cat demons left obediently.


    When Bian Hanyu looked at Qin Yun, tumultuous waves had long been stirring in her heart!


    She¡­


    Sword Immortal Hanyu!


    She was beginning her journey as a sword immortal! After becoming Sword Immortal Qin''s disciple, she naturally had to focus on her cultivation. Even when it came to the three cat demons she thought of as family, she would not be able to show them any concern for an extended period of time.


    "Rather straightforward." Qin Yun nodded in satisfaction. "Let''s go."


    Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, and Bian Hanyu vanished into thin air.


    ¡­


    In another Great World. The Flying Immortal Great World.


    "Master, is that the Junior Brother Yu whom you are looking for?" In a restaurant, Bian Hanyu looked at a white-dressed youth who had walked out from a distant manor. His presence on the streets was unknown to the commoners around him, for he was the true ruler of this city.


    "He has not become my disciple, so he cannot be considered your junior brother." Qin Yun said as he picked some food for Yi Xiao. "Try this. It''s not bad. It''s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside; exactly what you like."


    Yi Xiao smiled as she ate the food as she shot a glance at Qin Yun. She nodded giggling, "Yes, it''s not bad. To think that restaurant you randomly chose would have food that suits my palate."


    "Don''t you forget what cultivation realm your husband is," said Qin Yun.


    By the side, Bian Hanyu didn''t say a word as she ate with her head lowered.


    Qin Yun looked outside and said, "He will come in a while."


    Just as his voice faded¡ª


    The white-dressed youth walked towards the restaurant. When he came to the entrance, he hesitated for a moment before stepping in and coming upstairs.


    This scene left Bian Hanyu astounded. "This Yu Gufeng was in seclusion previously. Master, he exited seclusion just moments after you came to this restaurant and came all the way here. It seems like Yu Gufeng didn''t notice it himself¡­ Was all of this because of you, Master?"


    She had finally witnessed the means available to a top mighty figure in the Three Realms.


    At that moment¡ª


    Yu Gufeng reached the second floor while feeling a baffling urge to eat and, the moment he arrived, he saw three figures.


    Sitting by the window was a table of three. When he saw the trio, they seemed to be the only scene that existed in the world. Everything else was a blur.


    "Greetings Seniors." Yu Gufeng only felt astounded. He knew he had encountered impressive existences as he bowed reverently.


    Qin Yun looked at him and smiled. "I come from the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar. My name is Qin Yun."


    Yu Gufeng was taken aback as his eyes lit up.


    Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar?


    Qin Yun? Sword Immortal Qin?


    "I''ve created a sword immortal Dharmic formulation that can be cultivated to the Golden Immortal realm," said Qin Yun. "I came today to take you in as my disciple. Are you willing?"


    "Wait!"


    A fluctuation descended.


    An elder crossed space-time and appeared on the second floor of the restaurant.


    Qin Yun looked at the elder and could not help but frown. "Are you trying to stop me?"


    The elder immediately gave an obsequious smile. "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m Long Eyebrows, a disciple of Eight Scenic Palace."


    "Disciple of Grand Supreme Elderly Lord." Qin Yun nodded indifferently. "What are you here for?"


    Qin Yun was one of the strongest existences in the Three Realms beneath the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor.


    He was one of the strongest perfected Great Dao existences, but Daoist Long Eyebrows was only an ordinary Golden Immortal. It was already impressive that Qin Yun did not lose decorum when Long Eyebrows stepped in to stop him from taking in a disciple.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said the elder as he smiled obsequiously. This Gufeng has long been eyed by my Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. We have tested him several times and gave him several opportunities. We have been grooming him all this while. Now that the test is complete, we plan to take him in as our disciple."


    "That means¡­ you still haven''t recruited him?" Qin Yun said.


    The elder was taken aback as he nodded. "Yes, we haven''t. However, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage has been grooming him and giving him opportunities."


    "Your grooming was of your own will. Does that mean he has to become your Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s disciple?" Qin Yun said. "As long as he hasn''t already pledged himself a disciple to a master, he can make his own choice."


    The elder was somewhat embarrassed as he nodded immediately. "Yes, yes."


    The Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor could only govern without any true influence. Eight Scenic Palace did not even have a single perfected Great Dao existence.


    Against a half-step Heavenly Dao realm Sword Immortal Qin¡­ one could say that his Sword Heart was quite impressive to dare snatch his disciple.


    "Gufeng, do you still recognize me?" The elder changed his looks into that of an old beggar.


    "It''s you, Senior." Yu Gufeng was somewhat alarmed.


    "The Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage has indeed given you opportunities," said Qin Yun. "But in the past century or so, they have also given you three calamities. You do not owe them anything. At this moment you do not have a master, so you can choose for yourself. You can choose the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage or me as your master!"


    "Yes, yes. Make your own choice. With Sword Immortal Qin''s standing, he wouldn''t force you as well," said the elder with a smile.

 706 Deep-set Mental Demon

    "No one will force you." Qin Yun drank his wine in an extremely calm manner.


    Yu Gufeng was astounded at that moment.


    "That beggar Senior I have always felt grateful for was actually the Golden Immortal mighty figure, Daoist Long Eyebrows. He had deliberately given me that opportunity," thought Yu Gufeng. "As Sword Immortal Qin said, the three major calamities I faced in the past century or so were all because the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage wanted to test me?"


    Although it was in name a test, he had straddled in a precarious dance with death.


    "I nearly died in those three calamities. If I died, I''d probably have failed the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage''s test." However, Yu Gufeng didn''t feel disgruntled about it. "Legend has it that the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage is extremely strict when it came to selecting disciples and the Dao is not something easily instructed. It''s very normal that they have tests. If I didn''t accomplish my achievements today, Sword Immortal Qin would probably not come to me on his own initiative to take me in as a disciple.


    "Which side should I choose?


    "Sword Immortal Qin is the number one sword immortal in the Three Realms, but he is an Itinerant Immortal. He might die at anytime. Besides, I''ve never heard of anyone cultivating the sword immortal Dharmic formulation he created. If I were to cultivate it, I might not even reach the Skyimmortal realm," thought Yu Gufeng. "As for the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, it was created by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. That''s a sufficiently strong backer. Besides, more than one person has become a Golden Immortal mighty figure through this Dharmic formulation. Although the Golden Immortals of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage are all far inferior to Sword Immortal Qin, it''s a viable path."


    While Qin Yun drank, he remarked, "The Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage has quite a number of disciples, but if you were to take me in as your master, you will be the second disciple of my sword immortal lineage."


    "Sword Immortal Qin, the sword immortal lineage you created hasn''t had anyone cultivate in it yet, right?" said the elder with a smile. "However, I believe that Sword Immortal Qin''s lineage will definitely thrive and become a major lineage in the Three Realms."


    Qin Yun couldn''t be bothered to say another word.


    The recruitment of disciples had to be consensual for all parties. If a disciple was unwilling, he wouldn''t force the issue.


    "Sword Immortal Qin."


    Yu Gufeng said extremely reverently, "I''ve revered you after having heard your legends and have dreamed of becoming your disciple. However, it is only today that I learned that the beggar Senior I''m immensely grateful towards is a Senior from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. The sword arts I obtained previously was also handed down to me from the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. He''s the benefactor I''m most grateful to. If not for him, there wouldn''t be the present me. Since he''s willing to take me in as a disciple of the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, I find it impossible to reject him. Sword Immortal Qin, please forgive me for my lack of propriety."


    As Yu Gufeng spoke, he bowed politely.


    He was afraid of offending Sword Immortal Qin; therefore, he tried to mince his words as much as possible.


    However, he had thought too lowly of Qin Yun. Would Qin Yun be that petty to bear a grudge on a junior for failing to recruit him?


    By the side, Yi Xiao looked at Qin Yun. He placed his cup down calmly and took a look at Yu Gufeng. He nodded and said, "Since you have chosen the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, it can only mean that we aren''t fated. Xiaoxiao, let''s go."


    Qin Yun immediately stood up. By his side, Yi Xiao and Bian Hanyu stood up as well.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said the elder with a voice transmission as he bowed slightly. "This Yu Gufeng is indeed someone our Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage had noticed a long time ago and began secretly grooming him. This is why I had to be so thick skinned as to mention my intent. Please be magnanimous and forgive me."


    Qin Yun gave him a glance.


    The elder continued with his voice transmission. "There''s also one thing I''d like to inform you of, Sword Immortal Qin. This Bian Hanyu beside you had once caught the eye of my Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. We find her talented and perceptive, but later during her test, we discovered that her she has deep-set mental demons. It''s unlikely that she can transcend the Skyimmortal tribulations; therefore, she won''t be able to make much progress in the cultivation path. If you wish to teach her, be careful of her mental demons."


    "Would I, Qin Yun, need you to teach me how to teach my disciple?" Qin Yun grunted coldly.


    The elder''s face instantly paled as he said politely, "I have no other intentions."


    "No other intentions?"


    Qin Yun scoffed and waved his hand. "Return to your cave abode and think it through!"


    The elder suddenly felt an immense shockwave overwhelm him.


    "How would he dare¡ª"


    Following that, he felt space-time distort.


    When the scene before him restored to normal, he found himself falling to the ground in front of his cave abode. His face was planted into the muddy ground while Yu Gufeng stood there perfectly fine. He didn''t dare say a word as he looked at the muddied long-browed elder.


    Guarding by the cave abode''s entrance, two children were astonished. "Master!"


    The long-browed elder stood up immediately as the mud vanished from his body. However, his expression was ice-cold.


    "Take this junior brother and settle him in," he instructed.


    "Yes, Master," the two children said as they immediately arranged to settle Yu Gufeng in.


    The elder stood at his cave abode''s entrance with a grim expression. He thought to himself, "Nicely done, Qin Yun. You actually came to snatch disciples from my Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage? Do you really think the sword immortal lineage you created is comparable to our Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage?"


    "Junior Brother Long Eyebrows, you were too rash!" A distant voice tore through the void and sounded in his ears. "You shouldn''t have been so provocative, especially when the person is a half-step Heavenly Dao expert. If you had provoked a fiendish expert or one with a heretic temper, you would probably have been smacked to death with one slap."


    "We are all disciples of the Three Pure Ones. I didn''t say anything wrong anyway," said the elder. "Besides, the Bian Hanyu he recruited does have a mental demon in her. She''s unlikely to transcend the Skyimmortal tribulations."


    "Long Eyebrows, with that temper of yours, only a Daoist expert like Sword Immortal Qin wouldn''t niggle with you."


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun and his wife returned with Bian Hanyu.


    "That Long Eyebrows said that you have a deep-set mental demon that will be an obstacle to your cultivation." Qin Yun sat down a looked at Bian Hanyu standing beside him. "Tell me about your mental demon."


    "Mental demon?" Bian Hanyu was slightly taken aback.


    Yi Xiao sat beside Qin Yun and smiled. "There''s no need to hide it from your master."


    Bian Hanyu stood there, her expression seemingly adrift. Only then did she say softly, "Yes, I do have a mental demon. Master, I''d have forgotten about it if you didn''t mention it!"


    "When I was young, I was practically invincible. I eventually left my hometown and went our adventuring to hone my skills¡­ Years later, when I came back from my adventuring, I realized that all my loved ones, as well as servants and surrounding tenants, were all dead. Their corpses laid in front of me¡­" Bian Hanyu said softly, "All my loved ones, the aunties and uncles I was familiar with were dead. All dead.


    "103 lives. I fell into a daze, spending several days with those corpses before I buried them one after another. For the next thirty years, I often dreamed of those corpses."


    Bian Hanyu continued, "I cultivated as hard as I could, hoping to seek revenge like a lunatic."


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao listened.


    "Later, as my realm increased, I finally figured out the culprit after sparing no cost." Bian Hanyu scoffed and said, "The murderer was a Chaos Godfiend named Yuci, an ancient mighty figure. I had no idea why my family would offend him, but would the death of some mortals at the hands of an ancient mighty figure matter?


    "I even feel that my oath of seeking revenge is ridiculously laughable," said Bian Hanyu. "I''ve long given up, but I didn''t realize that it has become my mental demon."


    "This is a resentment of your cultivation. It''s also your greatest grudge, so how can you forget?" Qin Yun said, "Yuci is a Godfiend born from the Chaos and a pinnacle mighty figure. Many of these ancient Chaos Godfiends treat the Three Realms as their hunting grounds, using the living beings of the Three Realms as their prey and food. Yuci enjoys consuming souls and had happened to pass by your hometown. When he caught a whiff of the fragrance of souls, he devoured all 103 souls of your family. It''s as simple as a human casually taking a snack."


    "He enjoys consuming souls?" Bian Hanyu found it unbelievable. "Just because he wants to eat, he¡­"


    "Yes, he eats because he wants to eat." Qin Yun nodded.


    "How can the mighty figures of the Three Realms watch such a fiend act so wantonly?" Bian Hanyu could not help but ask.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "There are many things you won''t understand."


    Bian Hanyu fell silent.


    "Let''s go." Qin Yun stood up.


    "Go?" Bian Hanyu looked at Qin Yun, puzzled.


    "Follow me; to kill Yuci," said Qin Yun.


    Bian Hanyu''s eyes instantly widened. She had once believed that she had forgotten, once believing that her oath was a joke! But when Qin Yun said, "follow me; to kill Yuci," she felt her blood boil over as her brain buzzed. This was something she had never experienced in the past five centuries. It was an unspeakable agitation and desire.


    Kill! Kill!

 707 Killing Chaos Godfiend Yuci

    "Brother Yun." Sitting by the side, Yi Xiao could not help but remark. "That Yuci lives in the Yellowbeard Great World, the world where Elder Yellowbeard resides. Are you going to take action just like that?"


    "So what if it''s the Yellowbeard Great World?" said Qin Yun with a smile. "Xiaoxiao, you underestimate my strength."


    Yi Xiao heaved a sigh of relief when she heard that.


    "Wait for me. I''ll be right back." As Qin Yun said this, he tore through immense space with his disciple, Bian Hanyu, and headed for the Yellowbeard Great World.


    As Yi Xiao watched Qin Yun leave, she smiled. "Brother Yun doesn''t even think anything of Elder Yellowbeard? From the looks of it, Brother Yun''s strength has increased significantly."


    The stronger her husband was, the higher the chances of him transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    As for a mere Yuci?


    Her husband had killed numerous other-universe cultivators in the spatial tide, so what was one more Yuci?


    ¡­


    Yellowbeard Great World.


    With Qin Yun in the lead, he and Bian Hanyu appeared in midair and faced a towering mountain that had an air of grievance lingering around it. The sky above the mountain was perennially covered in black fog. Typically, humans would view such environments in contempt, but Chaos Godfiend Yuci loved such an environment the most.


    "Hanyu, this is Yuci''s cave abode, Seven Grievances Palace," Qin Yun said.


    Bian Hanyu looked at the towering mountain which emitted an air of grievance, it left her heart racing as a mortal. However, she long knew of Yuci''s Seven Grievances Palace. Even so, her first sight of it only served to deepen her hatred.


    Qin Yun nodded. "Let''s enter."


    With his female disciple in tow, he flew straight into the depths of the mountain and flew towards the cave abode.


    And at that moment¡ª


    Inside the Seven Grievances Palace, a greenish-white snake-light creature was coiled there. Its head was in the form of a human male as it looked down from a towering position. It let out a deep voice. "Is the food ready?"


    "Cave Lord, today''s food has been prepared. It''s a third firmament Essence Soul female cultivator. She has survived numerous tortures and her grievance is definitely something that will satisfy you." A black-robed man beneath said with a smile. Following that, he clapped his hands lightly and guards immediately carried a cage in. In it was an imprisoned woman.


    The woman''s eyes were filled with insanity as she lowered her head and touched her abdomen. "Where''s my child? Where''s my child?"


    "Have you forgotten that you ate your own child?" the black-robed man said.


    "It''s you. You were the ones who harmed my child¡ª" The woman''s expression was distorted. She could not forget all that she had experienced in the past few months.


    "Yeah."


    Cave Lord Yuci watched all of this from an aloof position. He closed his eyes and wore a look of pure enjoyment. "Indeed, the amount of grievances in her is rich. Such a soul would be truly delicious." With that said, he inhaled and the writhing woman''s Essence Soul immediately flew up and into Yuci''s mouth and was swallowed whole. The woman''s body instantly slumped to the ground and was reduced to a corpse.


    The black-robed man and the guards remained reverent. They did not dare disturb the Cave Lord while he was dining.


    "Well done. You are dismissed," instructed Yuci.


    "Yes."


    The black-robed man and the other subordinates retreated politely with the cage. Soon, the hall was restored to its silence.


    Yuci coiled there, his head restoring to its ugly, original three-horned look. He closed his eyes and began his slumber.


    "Whoosh."


    Two figures appeared inside the hall by stepping out of the void.


    Yuci was astounded. He opened his eyes and saw a man and woman.


    "It''s him? Mt. Lightning Roar''s Sword Immortal Qin." Even though Yuci was a Chaos Godfiend, he was quick to react no matter how brutal he was.


    His massive body instantly transformed into a green-robed middle-aged man. He immediately said with an obsequious smile, "Greetings Sword Immortal Qin, I''m Yuci."


    Qin Yun stood there and frowned slightly. "There was a rich air of grievance here a moment ago. Now, it''s slowly dissipating." With a thought, he understood all that had happened through the river of time. This made the cold glint in Qin Yun''s eyes deepen. "This Yuci¡­ truly deserves death!"


    Qin Yun''s killing intent was aroused having discovered all that had happened through the river of time.


    The third firmament Essence Soul female cultivator was only today''s meal. Yuci had done many similar deeds over an extended period of time.


    Among the Chaos Godfiends, many of them treated the living creatures of the Three Realms as prey. Yuci was one of them.


    "They all deserve death."


    Qin Yun thought, "If I, Qin Yun, can transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulation, I will one day make these brutal Chaos Godfiends understand that the Three Realms isn''t their hunting ground!"


    If dealing with the fiends was considered difficult, then trying to make the numerous Chaos Godfiend fear and change their habits was even more difficult! After all, the fiends only had two perfected Great Dao experts. As for the Chaos Godfiends, there were a lot more experts. The pinnacle existences in the Three Realms were mostly Chaos Godfiends. The Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Goddess N¨¹wa were all Chaos Godfiends.


    The number of perfected Great Dao existences that were human or demon were only a handful!


    Although the baneful Chaos Godfiends were the minority, they still far exceeded the fiends. The fiends had such a threatening stance only because of the Fiend Ancestor. If the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Fiend Ancestor were forced to leave the Three Realms, perhaps the Daoists, Buddhists, and Fiends would suffer a decrease in standing. The various Chaos Godfiends and their affiliations would rapidly rise in power.


    "Yuci." Qin Yun looked at him.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, feel free to give me instructions. I''ll do my best at fulfilling your wishes." Having transformed into a green-robed middle-aged man, Yuci spoke obsequiously. However, he felt a little worried when he saw Bian Hanyu beside Qin Yun.


    As a pinnacle mighty figure, he could tell at a glance¡­ that Bian Hanyu shared an immense animosity towards him and hated him to the bone.


    "Why does this woman hate me?" Through their karmic connection, he quickly saw the karmic scene and understood. "So that''s why. For her to have such a immense grudge against me, the fact that Sword Immortal Qin brought her here means that they aren''t here on friendly terms."


    As these thoughts flashed through his mind, Yuci turned flustered. The gap between him and Sword Immortal Qin was just too huge. He had no means of preserving his life through his powers alone.


    "Disciple, your enemy is here. Say whatever you wish to say," Qin Yun said as Bian Hanyu stared at Yuci intently, her eyes filled with hatred. "Yuci, do you still remember how you killed 103 lives about four centuries ago?"


    "A misunderstanding, a misunderstanding," Yuci said immediately as he tried to defend himself.


    "You still wish to lie in front of me?" Qin Yun said.


    Yuci was taken aback.


    Yes, with Qin Yun''s realm he had long seen everything through the river of time.


    Yuci said immediately, "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m a disciple of Elder Sword Yellowbeard. I''ve been staying in the Yellowbeard Great World all this time. I haven''t been out hunting without any restraints. I''m truly trying to do good. As for the 103 lives, it was my avatar that couldn''t resist the temptation of its appetite while out¡­ This resulted in the deaths of a tiny number of people!"


    "Temptation of its appetite?" Bian Hanyu was even more enraged. "Master, I do not have any wish to speak with him. I only wish he die sooner."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded and waved his sleeve.


    Instantly, his Intrinsic Flying Sword flew out as sword beams.


    However, another fluctuation descended upon the hall. It was extremely mysterious, one that even Qin Yun found a blur. He knew that this fluctuation came from the lord of this Great World, the mysterious Elder Yellowbeard.


    "Show him mercy!" A voice resounded in the hall.


    However, Qin Yun scoffed as the sword beams streaked across the sky. Yuci was instantly reduced to his true form as he tried to escape and resist as best as he could. While doing so, he anxiously pleaded with Elder Yellowbeard. "Patriarch, save me! Save me!" However, the sword beam was just too fast as it instantly delivered its blow, dicing up Yuci instantly into dozens of pieces. His Essence Soul was annihilated.


    In just one move, Chaos Godfiend Yuci was dead.

 708 Elder Yellowbeard

    Yuci had three avatars that were split off from his main body. Each one of them was extremely weak, with only the strength of a half-step mighty figure. Since they were sufficiently weak, the negative effects they had on the main body were sufficiently small.


    And this time, Qin Yun''s attack had traveled far away through karma. Even though the might decreased drastically, it was enough to kill the three avatars.


    Merit even descended upon Qin Yun.


    "He''s dead." Qin Yun said to his disciple, Bian Hanyu. "Let''s return."


    With that said, he took one step and disappeared from the Yellowbeard Great World with his disciple.


    ¡­


    "Whoosh."


    A yellow-haired elder appeared in the hall of Yuci''s cave abode.


    "Nicely done, Qin Yun. How dare you," the yellow-haired elder muttered. "You crossed the void and came here to kill Yuci and left once you killed him! What a clean and straightforward kill! I asked him to spare Yuci¡­ but he completely ignored me. Clearly, he doesn''t think anything of me. However, he can''t do a thing to me either. If he was strong enough, he would probably kill me as well."


    "Yellowbeard, you can''t even protect your subordinate?" A figure appeared out of thin air. He was none other than God King Zhurong.


    The elder looked at Zhurong and said with a self-deprecating tone, "God King, you have strength at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. That Qin Yun also has the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm, but as for me¡­ my strength is ultimately weaker. Furthermore, Qin Yun''s protective sword array is famous all over the realm. Even if I were to use all my strength, I wouldn''t be able to do a thing to him. What could I do to prevent him from killing Yuci?"


    "Yes, his protective sword array is powerful." Zhurong nodded.


    "He only has 39 years left to his tribulation. Yet, he came here to kill Yuci. He truly abhors evil as the rumors go." The elder chuckled oddly and said, "People like us who treat the Three Realms as a hunting ground where we hunt without any qualms are probably a sore sight to him. Besides, we have helped the Fiend Ancestor wreak havoc in the Three Realms numerous times."


    Zhurong laughed. "Your life-preservation skills make you unkillable under the Heavenly Dao realm. Although you can''t damage him at all, he can''t do a thing to you either."


    "His strength has grown a lot from when he first killed Daoist Wen." The elder shook his head. "I tried to stop him by taking action in secret, but I failed."


    "Of course he''s stronger," Zhurong said. "He has been to the spatial tide twice and, ignoring the treasures he obtained, his Intrinsic Flying Sword has become a Merit Cardinal treasure. His strength has naturally increased."


    "That''s right, a huge increase in strength." The elder''s eyes looked gloomy.


    "That''s why you should bear with it a little longer, Brother Yellowbeard," whispered Zhurong. "Don''t forget the matter that you have agreed upon with me and the Fiend Ancestor. Now that we are at a critical juncture of this plan, you must not fight with Qin Yun who has little time left."


    Zhurong was truly afraid that this partner of his would fight Qin Yun out of embarrassment and anger.


    After Qin Yun''s Intrinsic Flying Sword became a Merit Cardinal treasure, his strength turned even more unfathomable. Even Zhurong wasn''t confident in dealing with him, so he was afraid his partner would end up dying.


    "Don''t worry. It will not affect the Fiend Ancestor''s grand plan," said the elder.


    "That''s good." Zhurong nodded and left.


    ¡­


    The moment Chaos Godfiend Yuci died, many mighty figures in the Three Realms sensed it.


    The death of a mighty figure was enough to shock the Three Realms.


    "It''s Sword Immortal Qin."


    "Sword Immortal Qin killed Yuci."


    "Sword Immortal Qin really abhors evil. Well killed!"


    Some cheered at his actions while others reeled in panic.


    "What do I do? Patriarch Yellowbeard is profoundly formidable. He should have been able to protect Brother Yuci, so how did he end up being killed?"


    "That Sword Immortal Qin''s Intrinsic Flying Sword has become a Merit Cardinal treasure, making him stronger. Even Patriarch Yellowbeard can''t protect his subordinates any longer."


    "Will this Sword Immortal Qin continue his slaughter? Will he kill other mighty figures?"


    "It''s possible. Sword Immortal Qin is well known for his ruthlessness. Back when he killed Skyfiends, he basically shook the world with their deaths."


    "Although Brother Yuci had heavy sins, there are about ten plus Chaos Godfiends with the same level of sins. Will the rest of them also be killed by Sword Immortal Qin?"


    Mighty figures felt unease.


    Back when Qin Yun killed Daoist Wen, he had also killed several mighty figures with immense sin. Back then, it was enough to scare the ones with enough sin or mighty figures who lacked a strong backer. Many of them ended up changing allegiances.


    Back then, Patriarch Yellowbeard was a strong enough backer.


    Now¡­


    With only 39 years left to his tribulation, Qin Yun had started his killings again.


    Across the Three Realms, the number of people who could protect these sinful mighty figures were few and far between! These sinful mighty figures were also feeling great unease. They acted quickly and immediately, five switched allegiance! Some swore to turn over a new leaf by becoming a Buddhist. Some entered the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and others pledged allegiance to other mighty figures.


    ¡­


    As there was worry elsewhere, the yellow-haired elder was drinking by himself. He was in a terrible mood since Qin Yun had basically killed someone under his nose.


    "Patriarch." A gray-robed monkey-mouthed Daoist walked in and bowed.


    "What are you doing here?" The elder shot a glance at him.


    "Patriarch, that Qin Yun killed Brother Yuci, completely disregarding you. I''m also furious," the Daoist said in a deep voice. "Patriarch''s means are unique to the Three Realms. Who can do anything to you other than the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor? Why should you suppress your anger? I believe that although Qin Yun is powerful, he still has family. Why don''t you kill a few of his family members and let him know that you should not be messed with?"


    "Fool!"


    The elder berated him in anger. "His family is either in a Small World, the Great Chang world, or in the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar. The Heavenly realm¡­ is where even the Dao Ancestor can appear in his true form. You want me to court death?"


    "No, not at all," said the Daoist immediately. "I''m not trying to harm you, Patriarch! What I mean is that¡­ Qin Yun still has weaknesses. His family members are his weaknesses. Find an appropriate opportunity and exact revenge on him."


    "To involve family in this is way too despicable." The elder shook his head.


    "Patriarch, this is returning an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." The gray-robed Daoist''s eyes were filled with ferocity.


    "You fool, scram," berated the yellow-haired elder.


    "Yes, yes!"


    The gray-robed Daoist could only take his leave obediently.


    As the yellow-haired elder continued drinking alone, he recalled the sequence of events. To have Qin Yun kill one of his strongest subordinates in his territory, it was indeed quite a humiliating act. Furthermore, this matter had spread throughout the Three Realms.


    "What can I do?"


    "He does has weaknesses and his soft spots, but I can''t just charge into the Heavenly realm to send myself to my death." The elder shook his head when he suddenly froze. Gradually, his eyes lit up.


    "I got it!"


    The elder turned increasingly excited. "There''s no need to charge into the Heavenly realm to vent my anger! Besides¡­ I might benefit greatly from it."


    "What a good idea."


    The more he thought about it, the happier the elder became.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Manor.


    "Master, thank you for avenging me." Bian Hanyu knelt down and kowtowed in utmost gratitude.


    "Alright, get up," said Qin Yun. If Bian Hanyu''s enemy wasn''t ridiculously powerful, he could have left him as a motivational factor for her. However, Yuci was a pinnacle mighty figure! Even though Qin Yun was confident in his disciple¡­ he was not going to assume she could become a mighty figure. If the enemy was too powerful, one so powerful it would leave Bian Hanyu in despair, even she would find revenge a joke. That would no longer be motivational but become a mental demon.


    Furthermore, he only had 39 years left to his tribulation. Qin Yun had no way to keep protecting his disciple, so it was best to rid her of him early.


    "Yes, Master." Only then did Bian Hanyu get up.


    "You can go to Misty Rain Tower," said Qin Yun. "In it are the sword immortal manuals I created. You can read them as much as you want and can cultivate them. You should cultivate alone for a month. I will teach you more when you are finished."


    "Yes Master, I shall take my leave." Bian Hanyu was now enlivened and filled with fighting spirit. She felt that her entire life was now different.


    After Bian Hanyu left, Yi Xiao said with a smile, "Brother Yun, you sure are nice to this disciple of yours."


    "She''s my only disciple in the sword immortal lineage anyway," said Qin Yun. "I have no idea how far her cultivation can go before my tribulation. Unfortunately, time is just too short and I''m unable to teach her for long."


    "Didn''t you say that back when the Dao Ancestor took you in as a disciple, he only taught you in the beginning, but the rest was all done by yourself?" Yi Xiao said. "In comparison, you have provided your disciples enough help."


    Qin Yun laughed. "That''s true. A master can recruit them, but at the end of the day, it depends on the disciples themselves."


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun suddenly frowned. "He actually dares come?"


    "Who?" Yi Xiao asked.


    "Elder Yellowbeard." Qin Yun sneered. "However, it''s merely an avatar manifestation. Let''s go and take a look. Let''s see what this Elder Yellowbeard is up to."


    With that said, the couple walked out.


    Somewhere on the mountaintop, the clouds ahead split apart as a yellow-haired elder''s illusory figure walked over.

 709 Losing Decorum!

    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked at the perfected Great Dao expert, Elder Yellowbeard.


    "Brother Yun, you just killed Chaos Godfiend Yuci, and here comes his benefactor, Elder Yellowbeard. I doubt he''s here with kind intentions," said Yi Xiao with a voice transmission.


    "Let''s see what he wants first," replied Qin Yun.


    Elder Yellowbeard''s phantom walked through the void and arrived at the mountaintop. He said politely, "Greetings, Sword Immortal Qin, Madam Qin."


    "Yellowbeard, just get straight to the point." Qin Yun frowned slightly.


    Elder Yellowbeard shook his head in regret. "Madam Qin, did you see that? I came here nicely and politely, but your husband is just so impolite."


    Yi Xiao said sternly as well, "Patriarch Yellowbeard, my husband just killed your subordinate Yuci, so there''s no need to put on an act as you waltz onto our Mt. Lightning Roar. Just get straight to the point."


    The yellow-haired elder scoffed and said, "Sword Immortal Qin does abhor evil and has killed many sinners in the Three Realms. Yuci was indeed one with grave sins¡­ I can understand why Sword Immortal Qin wished to kill him. But according to the rules of the Three Realms, the Yellowbeard Great World is my territory. Yuci was my subordinate. Even if you wanted to kill him, shouldn''t you have informed me first?"


    Whenever any major faction wanted to kill another major faction''s expert, an agreement had to be made first.


    Without a consensus, it was equivalent to smacking the face of the other person.


    There had been many similar situations that happened among the major factions in the Three Realms in the past. They would secretly negotiate and when the time came, sent their subordinates to their deaths!


    But as for Qin Yun¡­


    How huge a price would he have needed to pay to make Elder Yellowbeard abandon Yuci?


    He never had the intention of benefiting Elder Yellowbeard. He didn''t like Yuci, and hated Elder Yellowbeard even more!


    Now that Yuci had been killed, what could be done?


    If he had the strength, Qin Yun even wished to finish Elder Yellowbeard who was even more riddled with sins! The Daoists and Buddhists actually wished him dead too, but he was unfathomably strong. He also lived in a Great World, so the Daoists and Buddhists could do nothing to him. Since he could not be killed¡­ the only thing that could be done was maintaining peace on the surface.


    "Tell you ahead of time? You would probably have immediately protected him," said Qin Yun coldly.


    "How do you know I wouldn''t have been agreeable to it when you haven''t discussed it with me?" Yellowbeard laughed. "In the Three Realms, as long as you are willing to pay the price, everything is negotiable."


    "Hmph." Qin Yun didn''t bother quibbling with him.


    Yellowbeard said coldly, "But you didn''t negotiate with me, you suddenly came to my Yellowbeard Great World and killed my subordinate! You didn''t even make any mention. It''s equivalent to stomping on my face in front of all the mighty figures in the Three Realms!"


    Qin Yun did not say a word; all he did was look at Yellowbeard.


    "Is there nothing you wish to say for having humiliated me this way?" Yellowbeard frowned.


    Qin Yun said nonchalantly, "What do you want?"


    "By humiliating me in this way¡­ you naturally have to apologize by compensation," said Yellowbeard.


    "Apologize by compensation?" Qin Yun and Yi Xiao exchanged looks.


    Yellowbeard had come today for him to apologize and compensate him?


    "I''ve heard that Sword Immortal Qin has been to the spatial tide twice. I believe you have obtained quite a lot of treasures," said Yellowbeard. "Let''s do this. You can compensate me with one Connate Cardinal treasure! Then, I''ll be magnanimous and not take calculative action with you."


    "Connate Cardinal treasure?" Yi Xiao was alarmed.


    Qin Yun looked at Yellowbeard and scoffed. "Yellowbeard, the compensation you ask for is a Connate Cardinal treasure? Have you been drinking?"


    Yellowbeard chuckled. "Qin Yun, you still have a few decades before your twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. You still rely on your Intrinsic Flying Sword, right? How useful are other Connate Cardinal treasures in your hands?"


    It was a fact.


    Even though Qin Yun had consumed the Spirit Enlightening Fruit, had fused the Dao of Supreme Yin and Supreme Yang, added the Seven Stars Great Dao into his Sword Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, as well as fused the charms of the Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers¡­ to create the powerful Misty Rain Array, without his Intrinsic Flying Sword, Qin Yun''s strength was only on par with Goumang, Rushou, and Kong Xuan.


    Ordinary Connate Cardinal treasures were only for him to study. They were indeed of little use for the transcending of the tribulations.


    As a sword immortal, he only truly needed his Intrinsic Flying Sword to transcend the tribulation.


    After all, he had nurtured his Intrinsic Flying Sword into a Connate Cardinal treasure and a Merit Cardinal treasure.


    "Why hoard things that are useless for your tribulation?" Yellowbeard said. "If you were to die from the tribulation, the more treasures you leave your family, the more trouble they will invite. Hence, I''m advising you to divest your treasures¡­ For example, gift your treasures to Green Touring Palace and give me one Connate Cardinal treasure.


    "By compensating me, I''ll forgive you and it will be the end of this debacle. Isn''t that nice?" Yellowbeard looked at Qin Yun.


    "Yellowbeard, you may leave if that''s all you have to say," Qin Yun said coldly.


    He couldn''t be bothered to waste his time on Yellowbeard.


    "If you do not compensate me," said Yellowbeard indifferently, "hmph, do you think I''ll let the matter of you humiliating me, a perfected Great Dao existence, rest? I naturally can''t do a thing with you alive, but once you are dead, I''ll uproot your Qin family. All the descendants of your Qin family bloodline will be eradicated! Not one will be spared!"


    Qin Yun''s and Yi Xiao''s expression changed as they glared at Yellowbeard.


    Yellowbeard''s expression also turned cold.


    "What? Did you not hear me clearly?" Yellowbeard sneered. "Pray that you transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulation. If you don''t I''ll eradicate your whole Qin family! Not a single descendant should bear hope of survival. Hmph, perhaps Green Touring Palace''s Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor will be able to protect your Qin family, but once the Dao Ancestors and company have to leave the Three Realms¡­ Who can stop me in the Three Realms?


    "You should know that I was born in the river of time and was born a perfected Great Dao existence. I''m best at my life-preservation skills," said Yellowbeard. "No one beneath the Heavenly Dao realm can kill me."


    "You old loach!"


    Qin Yun looked at him, his eyes filled with coldness. "Are you courting death?"


    "Hahaha, you, try killing me?" Yellowbeard roared with laughter. "I have traded with various parties and the Fiend Ancestor as well. But who in the Three Realms can do a thing to me? Who can kill me?


    "Qin Yun, if you''d just be obedient and compensate me, I shall let this matter rest," Yellowbeard said. "If you don''t, I''ll eradicate your Qin family and mark my words I''ll do it! You should know¡­ that at our realm, we definitely hold to our promises."


    "Scram!"


    Qin Yun flicked his sleeve.


    A terrifying force swept across Yellowbeard''s avatar, instantly reducing him to dust.


    "Haha¡­"


    However, there were remnants of Yellowbeard''s will on Mt. Lightning Roar''s mountaintop. He continued speaking, "It''s nothing impressive that you can destroy an avatar of mine. I''ll give you three months to consider it carefully! Do you want a Connate Cardinal treasure that isn''t of much benefit to you, or the lives of your Qin family. Your wife, Madam Qin, your daughter and son, Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan¡­ All of them. Don''t worry, as long as they have the Qin family''s blood in them, I''ll definitely not forget them. Are you willing to let them die?


    "Three months. I''ll give you three months to consider."


    The voice gradually dissipated from the mountaintop.


    Qin Yun and Yi Xiao stood in their spots and their expressions looked somewhat ugly.


    "Brother Yun," asked Yi Xiao anxiously. "He said that no one can kill him beneath the Heavenly Dao realm. Was what he said real?"


    "From the reports, probably." Qin Yun nodded. "As long as he hides in the river of time, even those on the level of the Ancestral Dragon can''t hurt him. He still has nine other avatars hiding in the river of time! The destruction of an avatar just means he needs time to cultivate back to his peak."


    "Then, what should we do?" Yi Xiao asked.


    Qin Yun''s eyes were shimmering with a cold glint. "I long guessed that those old bastards in the Three Realms were eyeing my treasures. But I never expected them to jump forward before my tribulation. Elder Yellowbeard? Nice, I''ll make an example of you to intimidate everyone!"


    "How do you plan on killing him?" Yi Xiao asked.


    "There are naturally ways to kill him! However, I need time to prepare!" Qin Yun narrowed his eyes that were effusing a cold glint.

 710 Agreemen

    That day, Qin Yun secretly left Mt. Lightning Roar and arrived at the Effulgent Great World.


    "To deal with Elder Yellowbeard, it is imperative to get Hou Yi''s help." Qin Yun came to the front of a secluded wooden hut. At a glance, he saw the fishing Hou Yi.


    "Haha, Brother Qin Yun, you only have a few decades left to your tribulation; yet, you still remember to visit an old friend." Hou Yi lowered his fishing rod and got up to welcome him. Although Hou Yi was quite a loner, he had gone through thick and thin with Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun smiled and said, "I have no other option, so I came to seek your help."


    "Seek my help?" Hou Yi smiled. "What help do you need? Feel free to tell me; I''ll do my best."


    The duo sat down and Hou Yi rushed to pour some tea for him. "Drink some tea. These were personally plucked by me."


    Qin Yun raised the teacup to his mouth and said, "Seeing as we''ve safely returned from our foray into the spatial tide, the Three Realms guesses that we have reaped tremendous rewards."


    "Haha, they guessed right! Furthermore, the rewards we reaped are far greater than they can imagine," Hou Yi said rather happily.


    "Yeah."


    Qin Yun nodded. "However, treasures are a temptation. Many old bastards are eyeing my treasures. None of them dare to do a thing with me alive and are probably waiting for my death to start with their monkey business. But I never expected that one old bastard would cause trouble even before I''m dead."


    "Who is it?" Hou Yi inquired.


    "Elder Yellowbeard," said Qin Yun.


    "That old loach?" Hou Yi was enlightened. "That old loach is extremely greedy. He has cooperated with the Fiend Ancestor numerous times. It''s only because of his impressive life preservation methods that the Daoists and Buddhists have not been able to do much to him."


    Qin Yun nodded. "This time, he is using the excuse of me killing Chaos Godfiend Yuci to demand compensation from me. He wants a Connate Cardinal treasure."


    "What an exorbitant price." Hou Yi scoffed.


    "If I do not agree to it, he promises to exterminate my Qin family if I were to perish from the tribulation," Qin Yun said calmly, but his eyes were filled with a ferocity. "In fact, a Connate Cardinal treasure is nothing to me. However, if I were to really agree to it, perhaps even more old bastards will appear and there will be no peace left for my Qin family. Before my tribulation, I must settle everything for my family! After all, I''ve offended numerous experts. It''s fine as long as I''m alive, but I would only implicate my family if I perish."


    "What do you plan on doing?" Hou Yi looked at Qin Yun.


    "My first step is to make an example out of Yellowbeard! He is well known for his life-preservation abilities and he likes to make himself appear front and center, so I''ll kill him first! I''ll let the old bastards in the Three Realms see¡­ that even Elder Yellowbeard can be killed. If that''s true, how many of them can withstand my vengeance?"


    "Kill Elder Yellowbeard?" Hou Yi frowned. "If we were to fight him in a frontal assault, his body is inferior even to Daoist Wen''s! However, he was born in the river of time and can slip away by hiding into the river of time. There¡­ no one in the Three Realms can pursue him, much less his nine other avatars. Including his main body, he has a total of ten.


    "The nine avatars are of varying strength. It''s said the strongest matches his actual body," said Hou Yi. "Once you take action, his other avatars will definitely hide away into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "Taking all these aspects in mind, it''s indeed difficult to kill him," Hou Yi said.


    "Brother Hou Yi, can you kill his other avatars through karma by killing one body?" Qin Yun inquired.


    Hou Yi frowned slightly. "The might delivered through karma will be greatly reduced. To kill his nine avatars¡­ I will have to burn my Essence Soul and release my nine successive arrows. I''m confident only with the sixth or seventh arrow."


    When burning his Essence Soul, his first arrow already had the might of the Heavenly Dao realm.


    The ninth arrow¡­


    That was strong enough to kill one of Bohan Island Lord''s strongest avatars.


    Comparing Elder Yellowbeard to Bohan Island Lord, be it realm or protective means, he was much weaker. However, Qin Yun needed to ensure that all of Yellowbeard''s avatars were killed.


    "You are confident, right?" Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    "Of course, even if his life-preservation abilities exceeds my expectations, the ninth Essence Soul-burning arrow will definitely kill him through karma," said Hou Yi with a smile. "But in that case, I will have to consume a Soul Heart Fruit or enter a slumber."


    Qin Yun nodded and said, "If you are really forced to use a Soul Heart Fruit, I''ll make it up to you."


    "I estimate the seventh or eighth arrow should be sufficient. The damage can be slowly restored, so there''s no need for a Soul Heart Fruit," said Hou Yi. Although it would take him a long while to recover from his injuries, he could be restored to his peak at any time with the Soul Heart Fruits in his possession; therefore, he was filled with confidence! In the past, Hou Yi would not allow himself to be in a heavily damaged state for a prolonged period of time because he lacked the Soul Heart Fruits.


    Qin Yun said, "Brother Hou Yi, I''m willing to pay one Soul Heart Fruit in exchange for your help."


    Hou Yi was somewhat enticed.


    To Hou Yi, one Soul Heart Fruit implied that he could burn his Essence Soul to deliver nine successive arrows! Therefore, the allure that the Soul Heart Fruits gave him was of a value far greater than what the other perfected Great Dao existences felt.


    "A Soul Heart Fruit is more valuable than a Connate Cardinal treasure. Furthermore, I doubt that old loach would need my ninth arrow. I will not take advantage of you," Hou Yi said with a shake of his head.


    "Hear me out. I won''t be able to hand you the Soul Heart Fruit for now."


    Qin Yun said, "I''m in desperate need of these Soul Heart Fruits before my tribulation. Therefore, I''ll first be using the spatial shields as a pledge."


    With a flip of his hand, the eighteen shields floated in front of him.


    Hou Yi''s eyes lit up. "This is Bohan Island Lord''s defensive treasure."


    "If I were to transcend successfully, I''ll naturally use the remaining Soul Heart Fruits to exchange for the spatial shields," said Qin Yun. "But if I were to perish during the tribulation, I would naturally have expended them all. This shield will then be yours. Be it the future Qin family or the future Green Touring Palace, they might not be able to hold on to it."


    With his master leaving the Three Realms and him failing to transcend the tribulation, all Green Touring Palace would have to support it would be his Eldest Senior Sister.


    Her strength¡­


    It was only considered average among the perfected Great Dao existences. Just supporting Green Touring Palace was tough since it had many treasures. Having the additional shields would only increase her pressure. However, no one would dare have any thoughts about the shields if they were in Hou Yi''s hands.


    "I''ll receive either a Soul Heart Fruit or a defensive cardinal treasure by helping?" Hou Yi shook his head. He was a proud man and was unwilling to take advantage of Qin Yun.


    "Apart from helping, I still have another request," said Qin Yun. "If I were to perish from the tribulation, I hope you could do your best to protect my Qin family."


    Hou Yi looked at Qin Yun.


    He could tell how pleaful Qin Yun''s eyes were.


    There was no other way about it.


    The thing he could not let go of the most was his family¡ªXiaoxiao, Yiyi, Meng Huan, Yuluo, and company.


    "Qin Yun is such a proud person; yet, he would plead for help on this matter." Hou Yi sighed.


    "Brother Qin Yun, I''ll take this defensive cardinal treasure," said Hou Yi. "If you were to fail transcending the tribulation, I''ll definitely do my best to protect your Qin family. Also¡­ after dealing with Elder Yellowbeard, your Qin family has a Fairy Yuluo. She''s likely the most outstanding person among your Qin family''s juniors."


    "Yes, she''s my granddaughter," said Qin Yun.


    "Let her be my disciple," Hou Yi said. "I will also invite my friends to bear witness!"


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    Yuluo would become Hou Yi''s disciple? And he would invite friends to bear witness? If this was done after Yellowbeard was killed, anyone who thought to deal with the Qin family would have to consider again.


    "Thanks," said Qin Yun.


    "It''s nothing to me." Hou Yi said wistfully. "What I wish for the most is that you successfully transcend the tribulation. After all, there are few in the Three Realms¡­ that I consider a friend."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "Right, you haven''t used the Spirit Enlightening Fruit yet, right?"


    Hou Yi''s heart stirred and immediately asked, "Not yet. How did it feel when you took it?"


    "It immersed me into a state of enlightenment for five hundred years," Qin Yun said. "Indeed, my realm improved tremendously. However, I have to remind you that¡­ you will only gain insight into the accumulated experience you had in the past during the epiphany. For example, I had been studying the Dao of Yin and Yang previously. Therefore, I managed to figure out the Dao of Supreme Yang and Dao of Supreme Yin after the epiphany! I had also been focused on the Misty Rain Array, so I improved tremendously there as well.


    "Without any accumulated experience, you would not gain any new insights from ingesting the fruit.


    "Therefore, the more your accumulated experience is, the more you reap from the epiphany," said Qin Yun.


    Hou Yi''s eyes suffused a glint when he heard that.


    Spirit Enlightening Fruits were legends in the spatial tide; therefore, the purported benefits gained from consuming them were vague as described by Palatial Lord Myriad Flower. All they knew was that they would enter a state of epiphany.


    Having consumed it, Qin Yun could allow Hou Yi to prepare himself.


    "From the looks of it, I should push back my consumption of the Spirit Enlightening Fruit." Hou Yi appeared in thought before saying solemnly, "What you said to me is far more valuable than a Spirit Enlightening Fruit."


    "Then when can you take action against Elder Yellowbeard?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Anytime." Hou Yi smiled. "I''ll just wait for your plans. However, I won''t be able to find him if he were to hide in the river of time."


    "Killing him is the hardest part. The others are nothing," said Qin Yun with a smile. Killing Yellowbeard required a few key elements, and Hou Yi was the most important element.

 711 Taking Action

    "Brother Hou Yi, just stay in the Effulgent Great World and wait for my signal," said Qin Yun. "If things go according to plan, we will take action today."


    "Alright." Hou Yi nodded. "You have to be careful, though. That old loach is extremely crafty. A single failure will make it difficult for any future success."


    Qin Yun nodded. "That''s why we need to destroy him this time."


    Following that, Qin Yun left the Effulgent Great World and headed to the Heavenly realm.


    ¡­


    In a general''s residence of a human city located in the Heavenly realm.


    "Mahamayuri is in seclusion. Sword Immortal Qin, please wait a moment," a bald monk said rather politely.


    "There''s no rush." Qin Yun smiled as he sat in the garden, drinking tea while taking in the beautiful scenery and listening to the twittering of birds.


    Moments later.


    A white-dressed Kong Xuan walked out. He smiled and said, "Brother Qin Yun, I heard that you have been in seclusion the past few years. I feel really flattered that you would visit me the moment you exit seclusion."


    "I''m here to borrow a treasure," Qin Yun said directly.


    "Borrow a treasure?" Kong Xuan smiled. "I have many treasures now. Which one are you borrowing?"


    He had a few Connate Cardinal treasures in his possession.


    "Wasn''t there a silver thread specifically meant for capturing enemies among Bohan Island Lord''s treasures?" Qin Yun said. "I''d like to borrow it."


    "I''ve given it a name, calling it the Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose." Kong Xuan looked rather smug as he said, "It can capture the myriad objects in the heaven and earth. Previously, I was in seclusion and studied these Connate Cardinal treasures. Each one of them has a perfected Great Dao at the very least¡­ The more I studied them, the more I realize how lacking my accumulated insights are. On our past visit to the spatial tide, Goumang and I really hit it lucky by being with you and Hou Yi. If it were just the two of us, just being able to survive in the spatial tide would have been impressive. There was no way we would have obtained so many treasures."


    "If you are so grateful to me, there won''t be any problems lending me your treasures, right?" Qin Yun asked. "I only need it for a day."


    "Of course." Kong Xuan nodded and waved his hand.


    A silver thread flew out.


    The moment it appeared, it seemed to become a portion of the world as though it could capture and bind everything.


    Qin Yun reached out to receive it. "Thanks."


    At their level¡­ there was no worry about borrowing treasures without returning.


    To not return borrowed treasures resulted in huge karma! It would end up being a huge obstacle to one''s cultivation, so the more someone cared about their cultivation, the more they cared about their karma.


    On the contrary, those who would lose decorum with their masters and betray good friends because of a powerful Connate Numinous treasure were usually the ordinary mighty figures who could hardly improve themselves, to the point of not reaching the pinnacle mighty figure level forever¡­ Such acts were all quite conceivable.


    At Qin Yun''s and Kong Xuan''s level, it was quite impossible.


    "Who do you plan on using it against?" Kong Xuan asked. "If the matter is of urgency, there''s no need to tell me."


    "It has to be kept confidential. Kong Xuan, please keep this to yourself," said Qin Yun. "I''m dealing with that old loach from the Yellowbeard Great World."


    "Him?" Kong Xuan frowned. "He hides in the river of time and flies at extremely fast speeds. No one beneath the Heavenly Dao realm can catch up to him. Besides, he has nine avatars¡­ Dealing with him won''t be easy."


    "He came to threaten me, saying he would exterminate my entire family¡­ He wanted me to hand over a Connate Cardinal treasure to ensure peace. How can I spare him?" Qin Yun sneered.


    Kong Xuan''s expression could not help but change when he heard that. "He actually acted so presumptuously? He does deserve death. But this is really something that old loach is capable of. He''s well known for his greed. Back when the Daoist and Buddhists were fighting the fiends, he would straddle the line and gain benefits from both sides. He''s extremely shameless. If he''s not satisfied, he will seek ruthless revenge. The Daoists and Buddhists wish to be rid of him, but they have not been able to do it all this while. Are you confident you can finish him?"


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded.


    "If you can really kill him, the Daoists and Buddhists would be celebrating." Kong Xuan said wistfully. "Those Chaos Godfiends have cultivated for so long, but there are still who can''t change their baneful character. The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are still around, enough to make them behave, but once they leave the Three Realms¡­ those old fellows will probably stir up a bigger storm."


    Kong Xuan was originally well known to be unbridled and baneful.


    After he became a Buddhist, he naturally worked on cultivating his heart and mind. Now, he lived among the humans and showered blessings around him.


    He even felt a little contempt towards those who had cultivated for years but had failed to change their baneful characters. For instance, although his younger brother had also become a Buddhist, he was far inferior at cultivating his mind. He also often berated him for that.


    "Kong Xuan, in terms of inference, you are superior to me. Help me infer¡­ where the numerous avatars of that old loach are. My inference gives me extremely vague results. I only know roughly which Great Worlds they are in, but not their exact locations."


    "His hiding skills are indeed impressive. Let me give it a try." Kong Xuan nodded and immediately did the inference carefully. Five-colored Divine Light began swirling around him.


    "I infer that he has five avatars. One is in Yellowbeard Great World, one in Changyu Great Chang world, and two in the fiendish dominion''s Great Worlds and the final one is in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss," said Kong Xuan. "You won''t be able to enter the fiendish dominion or the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, so it''s truly not easy to kill that old loach."


    Qin Yun nodded and continued asking, "I can roughly infer that the avatar in the Yellowbeard Great World is the strongest, but I''m unable to pinpoint its location. How about you?"


    "I infer that he''s hiding within half a million kilometers of the Qian Ning River in the Yellowbeard Great World," said Kong Xuan. "I''m unable to get any more detailed than that."


    "That''s sufficient." Qin Yun smiled. "Alright. I''ll be taking my leave first."


    "I''ll be here waiting for your good news," Kong Xuan said with a laugh.


    ******


    Qin Yun stepped through space and arrived above the Qian Ning River in the Yellowbeard Great World.


    "Rumble!"


    It was a mountain outlet where the river waters surged out turbulently.


    Qin Yun appeared above the river out of thin air, but in an instant, a wisp of misty rain flew out of his fingertip before splitting into three. "Array setup."


    With a thought, the array was set up.


    The setting up of the Misty Rain Array was now undetectable and did not cause a single stir. It was also testament to Qin Yun''s present realm.


    "Found it." Qin Yun set up the array formation and immediately sealed the space within its confines. Due to the enhancement of the Misty Rain Sword and his increase in realm, the Misty Rain Array''s might had increased exponentially as well. Its range had increased to five million kilometers! Time was needed even for the fastest flyer to escape this staggering range.


    ¡­


    In a manor beside the Qian Ning River.


    Elder Yellowbeard reclused himself here. He was very crafty; after threatening Qin Yun, he did not return to his old residence and casually chose this spot for his seclusion.


    "I''m good at hiding from the heavenly secrets. Qin Yun is only able to vaguely determine that my avatar is in the Yellowbeard Great World." Yellowbeard sat cross-legged as he chortled secretly. "If he heads straight for my original cave abode, he will find nothing."


    "Against my threat, he will either try to kill me or bow obediently. He will definitely not ignore his family''s safety." Yellowbeard was very confident.


    In order to threaten Qin Yun, he had long gathered large amounts of information regarding him.


    "For his homeworld, he was willing to risk becoming an Itinerant Immortal. How can a Connate Cardinal treasure matter compare to his family and loved ones?" Yellowbeard thought to himself.


    "Connate Cardinal treasure. I''ve helped the Fiend Ancestor numerous times and although I''ve obtained some benefits, I''ve not been able to get a Connate Cardinal treasure."


    In the Three Realms, there were just too few Connate Cardinal treasures.


    Many perfected Great Dao experts did not even have one.


    "Almost there. Almost.


    "Qin Yun will bow."


    Yellowbeard felt expectant. "Just one threat will not take much effort and there''s a high possibility of me obtaining a Connate Cardinal treasure. There''s no danger for me either¡­ What a great deal."


    He looked forward to the day Qin Yun sent him a Connate Cardinal treasure.


    "Oh?"


    Yellowbeard vaguely sensed that Qin Yun had crossed through space and arrived in the Yellowbeard Great World through karma. "Qin Yun is here? The heavenly secrets around him are very blurred. I can''t determine his location. Has he chosen to bow?"


    The moment this thought came to him, Yellowbeard felt the surrounding space seal under a suppression. Even with his strength, he was unable to tear through space to leave.


    "Space has been sealed?" Yellowbeard''s face sank. "He plans on attacking? What a joke."


    Hua!


    He instantly split into three.


    The three Elder Yellowbeards plunged into the river of time simultaneously, turning into three yellow loaches as their whiskers flailed. With a flick of their tails, the three yellow loaches escaped in different directions at amazing speeds.


    The three yellow loaches varied in strength.


    Just after the weakest loach fled tens of thousand of kilometers, it felt countless sword beams gather around it, completely trapping it. Knowing that it could no escape successfully, it immediately took up human form. When the countless sword beams bound him, Dharmic powers surged into his body, and this extremely weak avatar which was only at the ordinary mighty figure level was fully sealed.


    "Qin Yun." Yellowbeard showed no fear as he roared, "Do you really want the Qin family to be exterminated?"


    He thought nothing of having a single avatar captured.


    Even if it was destroyed¡­ he could easily cultivate them again.


    "Swoosh!"


    Another loach was rapidly flying and similarly, countless sword beams gathered in a bid to imprison it. It was the strongest avatar, barely reaching the perfected Great Dao realm.


    "You won''t be able to capture me if I don''t permit it." The loach spoke in human language as its voice resounded. It then annihilated itself silently, its strength returning to the world. It had chosen to commit suicide.


    As he possessed at most nine avatars, he could cultivate them back after one was dead. But if they were captured and sealed¡­ there would be no way of committing suicide.


    If the weak avatars were caught, the influence on his strength would be trivial. However, he did not wish for his powerful avatars to be caught alive.


    "Qin Yun, I can easily cultivate back the dead avatars." Yellowbeard scoffed. "That weak avatar is nothing to me. I advise you to think it through. Bow your head now and there''s still a chance to turn back."


    At that moment, the third loach was also flying at rapid speeds, having flown more than half a million kilometers out. Its strength was considered average, with the strength of a pinnacle mighty figure.


    Suddenly, a thread flashed out of the void.


    Before Yellowbeard could react, he felt his body tighten and found himself bound by a silver thread. All his Dharmic powers were sealed as well.


    Qin Yun had used the Connate Cardinal treasure, Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose, to sneak an attack amid the Misty Rain Array''s concealment. He did it in one fell swoop, preventing Yellowbeard''s avatar from taking human form in time. It was captured in the form of a loach.


    "I''ve caught two avatars alive." Qin Yun nodded slightly. He had borrowed the Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose to ensure that he captured at least one. Capturing two was better than he expected.

 712 Shameless

    Qin Yun stood on a cloud while Elder Yellowbeard stood by the side with his Dharmic powers sealed. A distance away, a yellow loach was launched into the sky after being caught.


    "Transform." Qin Yun pointed into the distant, causing the loach to turn into Elder Yellowbeard as well.


    With a wave of his hand, he put away the Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose.


    At that moment, two of Yellowbeard''s avatars had their Dharmic powers sealed. Their Essence Souls were being sealed so it was impossible for them to even commit suicide. Even their limbs were restrained.


    "What treasure is that?" Yellowbeard''s eyes burned with greed when he saw Qin Yun put away the Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose. "Although this avatar of mine isn''t considered powerful, with it only having the strength of a pinnacle mighty figure, I was captured before I could even realize it¡­ This must be a Connate Cardinal treasure."


    "Are you still thinking of obtaining treasures at this point in time?" Qin Yun looked at him with a sneer.


    "Haha, what''s there for me to be afraid of?" Although the two Yellowbeard avatars had been captured, he remained extremely relaxed. One of them said with a laugh, "I have nine avatars, and including my main body, I have a total of ten bodies! Even if you capture two alive¡­ I still have eight left. What can you do to me? Besides, these two bodies are weak, so I don''t care even if you capture them. As for you, Qin Yun, you should consider your family and those disciples of yours."


    "Are you still threatening me?" Qin Yun stared at him.


    "That is the path you chose yourself," said Yellowbeard indifferently. "If you still remain unrepentant, I''ll give you another chance. Otherwise, your choices today will determine the fate of your Qin family. I will have to have them exterminated! Having lived so long in the Three Realms, mark my words that I''ll do as I say!"


    Qin Yun gave him a glance and couldn''t be bothered to speak further.


    Meanwhile, he sent a karmic voice transmission. "Master, I have captured two of Elder Yellowbeard''s avatars alive. I plan on killing him now."


    "Alright, let me see what means you have," replied Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor from afar.


    After informing his master, he immediately sent a voice transmission to Hou Yi.


    "Brother Hou Yi, you can come over now," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "Coming."


    In the time it took to blink a few times, a figure crossed through space and arrived in this Great World where he stood beside Qin Yun.


    "Oh?" Yellowbeard, whose two avatars were caught, looked in astonishment at the linen-clothed man. "Hou Yi?"


    "Brother Hou Yi, I''ll be troubling you," said Qin Yun.


    "You captured two of his avatars alive. This will make killing him easier." Hou Yi nodded slightly upon taking in the situation.


    When Yellowbeard saw Hou Yi, he had a guess. Upon hearing this, he could not help but scoff. "Are you having Hou Yi kill me? Hou Yi''s arrows are indeed famous in the Three Realms, being said to have the might of the Heavenly Dao realm, but some of my avatars are in the fiendish dominions or the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss¡­ How does Hou Yi plan to kill me? Even an arrow at the Heavenly Dao realm will be greatly reduced after karmic transmission. Would that be able to destroy my perfected Great Dao avatars?"


    "Begin." Hou Yi couldn''t be bothered to speak further with Yellowbeard.


    Qin Yun waved his hand and separated the two Yellowbeard avatars, making them float in two different spots.


    "Boom!"


    Hou Yi turned stern as a terrifying aura erupted from his body.


    "Ignition of Essence Soul?" Yellowbeard was alarmed.


    "The first arrow." While burning his Essence Soul, Hou Yi did not hesitate to draw his bow fully and shoot out an arrow straight towards the cosmos!


    This arrow''s might was extremely terrifying. It left Yellowbeard''s heart palpitating. Without a doubt, the arrow had reached the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. However, this arrow had flown out the Yellowbeard Great World and into the depths of the interstellar space.


    "What''s he doing?" Yellowbeard''s two avatars were somewhat puzzled. "He did not shoot at me and instead shot into space?"


    At that moment¡ª


    Many mighty figures in the Three Realms were alarmed by this arrow.


    When burning his Essence Soul, Hou Yi''s first arrow had the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. He made no effort to conceal it, so when the arrow shot out the Great World and into space, this terrifying fluctuation rapidly garnered the attention of many mighty figures.


    "Oh?"


    In the Western Paradise''s Mt. Numinous, the Buddhist Ancestor Gautama was preaching the Buddhist Dharma to the various Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats sitting below him. But at that moment, he could not help but turn his head to look at the Yellowbeard Great World of the lower realm.


    Those Buddhas and Bodhisattvas all followed his gaze to the Yellowbeard Great World.


    "The lord of the Yellowbeard Great World has two of his avatars captured?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin has the Misty Rain Array protecting the surroundings while Hou Yi is shooting into space?"


    "What are they up to?"


    ¡­


    Even the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, and Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus were watching. All of them were astonished.


    Many ancient existences also noticed this scene.


    Some had guesses while others were puzzled.


    "Numinous Treasure, what''s your disciple doing?" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor inquired remotely.


    "Haha, killing that loach." Inside Green Touring Palace, Numinous Treasure chortled with a reply. He understood the situation best as he said, "Primordial Beginning, you had once taken action personally to kill that loach, but you failed. Let''s see how my disciple will fare."


    "This loach isn''t that easily killed." Primordial Beginning watched from afar.


    All of them knew that killing Yellowbeard was difficult.


    Even if only two avatars were caught alive, existences at the Dao Ancestor level could deliver blows that transmitted through karma, but Yellowbeard''s avatars were hidden in Great Worlds. The might delivered by the Dao Ancestors would have to pass through the Great Worlds and suffer the obstruction of the Heavenly Dao laws. Their might will be rapidly reduced to a triviality, making it impossible to threaten a perfected Great Dao expert. When Heavenly Dao realm existences attacked, their strength was greatly reduced in Small Worlds and Great Worlds.


    Therefore, to kill Yellowbeard, only Hou Yi stood a chance.


    "Swoosh!"


    Hou Yi drew his bow and aimed into the sky above him, sending his arrow into the cosmos.


    The might of the arrows kept increasing.


    "Despite burning his Essence Soul, two consecutive arrows have been sent into the cosmos?"


    "The second arrow is stronger than the first. Could it be¡­"


    This scene gave many mighty figures guesses.


    "Hou Yi is planning to¡­"


    "To shoot nine successive arrows while burning his Essence Soul?"


    These ancient existences all knew how powerful Hou Yi''s nine successive arrows were, with each arrow more terrifying than the previous one. However, burning his Essence Soul dealt too much damage to his Essence Soul. Hou Yi had done it once when he was still a pinnacle mighty figure. That time, he ended up falling into a deep slumber. Ever since he reached the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, he had never done it again!


    Some ancient existences even believed that to burn his Essence Soul at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm enervated Hou Yi so drastically that he wouldn''t dare do it.


    In short, Hou Yi had never repeated this feat in the Three Realms.


    However, Qin Yun, Kong Xuan, and Goumang knew very well¡­ Back in the spatial tide, Hou Yi had done so again. To kill Bohan Island Lord''s avatar, he went all out. It made Hou Yi realize that he could withstand the damage dealt to him by the eighth arrow. With the Soul Heart Fruit in hand, he was no longer afraid of spending long periods of time to restore himself.


    "Swoosh!"


    Hou Yi calmly shot out his third arrow.


    This arrow''s might continued increasing.


    "The might is even stronger." Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor pricked up his brows and nodded gently. "The first arrow already has strength at the Heavenly Dao realm, so how powerful would the ninth arrow be?"


    This made even the few Heavenly Dao realm existences view this matter with seriousness.


    ¡­


    "He''s shooting his nine successive arrows. Hou Yi plans to burn his Essence Soul to shoot nine successive arrows."


    In a restaurant in the Changyu Great World, another avatar of Yellowbeard sat at a table. His face wore a look of anxiety and unease. "The first arrow''s strength is already at the Heavenly Dao realm. How much stronger would the ninth arrow be? Even if its strength is greatly reduced by a karmic transmission, it will still be terrifying, right? Will I be able to withstand the blow?"


    He had a faint premonition of an approaching death.


    "This Hou Yi has only ever given his all back when he was a pinnacle mighty figure. Now that he''s at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm, he''s actually going all out again? To burn his Essence Soul for the shooting of nine successive arrows? How deep does his relationship with Qin Yun go? He''s trying to kill me at the cost of falling into a deep slumber?" Yellowbeard found it unbelievable.


    However, he was unaware.


    Hou Yi and Qin Yun were indeed good friends, but the former wouldn''t risk falling into a deep slumber to kill an old loach like him.


    However, with the Soul Heart Fruits, he had the confidence to burn his Essence Soul! Qin Yun was giving Hou Yi the spatial shields, a Connate Cardinal treasure, so Hou Yi naturally did his best.


    For this huge price that Qin Yun paid, killing Yellowbeard was just one aspect of it. Another aspect involved his wish for Hou Yi to protect his family even if he failed to transcend the tribulation.


    After Hou Yi burned his Essence Soul to shoot the arrows successively¡­ it would definitely make the ancient existences fear Hou Yi even more.


    With Hou Yi doing his best to protect the Qin family, the effects would only become better.


    "The fourth arrow." Yellowbeard''s face turned pale. "No matter where I hide, there''s no way to dodge the karmic transmission. No¡ª There''s still one more place! The spatial tide! I can go to the spatial tide!


    "After entering the spatial tide, all karmic connections will be severed. Even my main body will not sense my avatar.


    "It''s just that the spatial tide is too dangerous. I once sent avatars in, but all of them died in there."


    Many ancient existences had attempted to probe the spatial tide with their avatars.


    But the typical result was¡ª


    The death of their avatars!


    Few could survive in the spatial tide.


    Back then, the Three Pure Ones had joined forces to travel the spatial tide. Qin Yun, Hou Yi, and Kong Xuan had also done so. As for Qin Yun''s first entry into the spatial tide, he encountered the other-universe cultivator, Fate. They were pursued and had to rush back to the Three Realms. They were lucky to obtain the three corpses of Fate''s envoys, but that trip had been perilous.


    With Yellowbeard''s strength, he would be in grave danger if he stayed in there.


    "I can''t bother with that." Yellowbeard immediately split his body into two. They immediately traversed through distance space and arrived at two different boundaries of the Three Realms.


    He planned on passing through the Three Realms'' membrane and entering the Chaos.


    "Obliterate."


    A gigantic finger phantom descended out of the void. It suffused a pure-colored aura swirl.


    When Yellowbeard saw this scene, he exclaimed in despair, "Numinous Treasure!"


    Pu!


    The finger phantom struck Yellowbeard''s avatar, vanquishing his avatar instantly.


    On the other side of the Three Realms, Yellowbeard''s avatar had a drastic change in expression. "Numinous Treasure has taken action? With him taking action, even if I rushed to the Chaos spatial rift, the array formation that seals the rift was set up by Goddess N¨¹wa and the Three Pure Ones. With just a thought, Numinous Treasure will make the array formation stop me, preventing me from entering the spatial tide."


    At that moment, a gigantic finger phantom descended.


    Yellowbeard''s avatar looked up and bellowed angrily, "Numinous Treasure, you are being a bully. How shameless!"


    "Pfft!"


    The finger pressed down, and with that, this avatar of Yellowbeard perished.


    Yellowbeard had no hope of escaping to the spatial tide with Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor present.

 713 Inviting Friends

    "What a pity. That old loach''s two avatars were destroyed by Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor before he could even escape the Three Realms." The King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun, was also watching through distant space at these two events and could not help but shake his head. "From the looks of it, although the old loach''s avatars are hiding in our fiendish dominions and in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, he''s frightened by Hou Yi''s delivery of his nine successive Essence Soul-burning arrows.


    "It''s not a surprise that he is frightened. It''s indeed terrifying." Even Boxun felt the pressure.


    As the former supreme leader of the fiends, he had once made Buddhist Ancestor Gautama as his target.


    After all, he had fought with Gautama for a very, very long period of time.


    As for Qin Yun, Hou Yi, Ancestral Fiend, Zhurong, and Amita, these half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences, Boxun had thought nothing of them. He often thought of making his mark in one shot by breaking through to the Heavenly Dao realm.


    But now, having seen Hou Yi''s arrows shooting into the cosmos while he burned his Essence Soul¡­ Boxun felt the pressure.


    "How terrifying. This can even pose a threat to those at the Heavenly Dao realm," thought Boxun.


    ¡­


    "How terrifying, this Hou Yi."


    "What did that lord of the Yellowbeard world do to offend Hou Yi and Sword Immortal Qin for them to attack him?"


    "Hou Yi has already shot five arrows while burning his Essence Soul. Yet, all of them are shot into the cosmos. From the looks of it, he''s gathering strength. The two Yellowbeard avatars are restrained and captured alive. He''s likely trying to use a very powerful strike to kill his other avatars via karmic transmission."


    "It''s very likely to be the case."


    "What did Elder Yellowbeard do? He made Hou Yi and Sword Immortal Qin combine forces? To the point of making Hou Yi pay such a heavy price?"


    ¡­


    Mighty figures in the Three Realms were discussing and guessing. All they did was watch for no one could intervene!


    After all, Qin Yun and Hou Yi were in a Great World. Even the Fiend Ancestor could not descend into it, and beneath the Heavenly Dao realm, no one had the guts to face the combined forces of Qin Yun and Hou Yi!


    Who had the confidence of resisting Hou Yi''s arrows?


    Who had the confidence in cracking Qin Yun''s sword array?


    Qin Yun''s defensive skills were unparalleled in the Three Realms. After consuming the Spirit Enlightening Fruit, his realm had increased tremendously. Furthermore, his Intrinsic Flying Sword had become a Merit Cardinal treasure, making him much stronger than when he fought Bohan Island Lord. Even without burning his Essence Soul, he was able to withstand the strike of a Heavenly Dao existence. Of course, against Hou Yi''s nine Essence Soul-burning successive arrows¡­ Qin Yun would have to burn his Essence Soul to defend against the later arrows. Even Qin Yun had little confidence in fending off the ninth arrow.


    Between the two of them, one had the strongest attack beneath the Heavenly Dao realm, archery skills complemented by Heart Force making a heaven-defying combination.


    The other had the strongest defensive means. His sword array was sufficiently power and it was powered by an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal Merit Cardinal treasure.


    And at that moment, they were joining forces.


    "Fiend Ancestor, save me. You must save me."


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Elder Yellowbeard''s avatar appeared before the Fiend Ancestor as he pleaded for help.


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body shook his head gently. "They are using karma to destroy your various avatars. Even at the Heavenly Dao realm, one can at most cloud the heavenly secrets and blur karma. There''s no way to fully isolate karma."


    If one could not be investigated, that meant their secrets had been clouded and hidden.


    True isolation¡­


    It could be done in the spatial tide and in the Chaos. That was the only known method.


    "I''ll try my best to cloud the heavenly secrets, minimizing Hou Yi''s strike after it is transmitted through karma." Fiend Ancestor looked at Yellowbeard. "Whether you can survive the blow will all depend on you."


    "Thank you, Fiend Ancestor." Yellowbeard stopped pleading for he knew that was all the Fiend Ancestor could do.


    "At this moment, you should weaken all your other avatars and ensure that this avatar of yours is sufficiently strong," said Fiend Ancestor.


    "I''ve already done it." Yellowbeard looked at the distant Yellowbeard Great World. "The seventh arrow is coming."


    All he could do was wait silently for "judgment" to come.


    If he withstood the blow, he would live!


    If not, he would die!


    ******


    Yellowbeard Great World.


    Qin Yun watched by the side as he had the Misty Rain Array conjured. He prevented any possible disturbance that might happen at a critical juncture. Hou Yi had drawn his bow fully in preparation to deliver his seventh arrow.


    This time, Hou Yi did not aim his arrow into the cosmos; instead, he aimed it at one of Yellowbeard''s two avatars.


    "Oh?" Yellowbeard''s two avatars glared at the same time. "He plans to kill me with the seventh arrow?"


    "Hou Yi''s seventh arrow after burning his Essence Soul!"


    "He''s really shooting at the lord of the Yellowbeard Great World."


    "He''s shooting at that old loach now."


    Many figures in the Three Realms were watching.


    "I must fend it off. I have to." Yellowbeard gritted his teeth.


    "Swoosh!"


    A blinding and resplendent arrow beam burst out, far more blinding and beautiful than even the sun in the sky.


    However, the most beautiful arrow beam was also the most terrifying.


    The arrow struck one of Yellowbeard''s avatars which was instantly pulverized. Meanwhile, the terrifying might traveled through the karmic connections, rapidly emanating towards the other avatars! However, under Hou Yi''s control, he deliberately avoided the Yellowbeard avatar that had been captured.


    Attacking an enemy through karma involved many aspects.


    First, one''s realm had to be high enough and they had to have some insights into karma. The deeper one''s insights were, the stronger one''s force could be transmitted by karma.


    A secondary requirement needed an object. For instance, the magi hexes required hair or blood to deliver greater might.


    To kill via karma¡­ striking an enemy''s avatar would transmit sufficiently powerful might since two avatars had the strongest karmic connection two beings could have! For instance, Qin Yun had karmic ties with Yellowbeard, but if he were to transmit an attack through such a karmic connection, the might delivered would be less than 1%.


    Against a Skyimmortal or Skyfiend, a mere thought was needed to vanquish them via karma.


    But against a perfected Great Dao Yellowbeard, even Hou Yi had to ignite his Essence Soul to deal with Yellowbeard''s avatars.


    "It''s approaching."


    In the fiendish dominion.


    One of Yellowbeard''s avatars was sitting cross-legged in the wilderness. He immediately "saw" the arrow heading for him via the karmic connection.


    "What a terrifying arrow." Just a mere thought surfaced in his mind before the avatar was destroyed.


    ¡­


    Yellowbeard''s other avatars failed to put up any resistance because he had weakened all his other avatars to make the avatar beside the Fiend Ancestor the strongest.


    "Oh?" Fiend Ancestor also sensed it. However, all he could do was blur karma and use this method to reduce the force.


    However, Hou Yi''s realm was just too high.


    Infused with Heart Force¡­ this arrow still maintained 30% of its strength despite the karmic delivery! All the Fiend Ancestor''s blurring of karma could do was minimize it a little.


    "Pfft!"


    It was as though there was an invisible arrow that had struck him.


    Yellowbeard''s eyes widened suddenly as his body was obliterated silently as he dissipated.


    Ancestral Fiend shook his head at this scene. "There''s no reason to regret dying under such an arrow."


    ******


    Yellowbeard Great World.


    After Hou Yi shot his seventh arrow, he smiled and put away his ancient bow. He smiled at Qin Yun. "Brother Qin Yun, it''s a success. The loach''s other avatars are all dead. All that''s left is this captured avatar."


    "Brother Hou Yi, impressive." Qin Yun felt extremely relieved.


    "Haha, I was only planning on using my seventh arrow to test his strength. If it was still far from killing his other avatars, I''d have had to use my ninth arrow on his other avatar." Hou Yi smiled. "Who knew that the seventh arrow would succeed?"


    "Your seventh arrow is sufficiently terrifying," said Qin Yun.


    He was very aware that among Hou Yi''s nine successive arrows, the first eight arrows only experienced a gradual increase in strength; hence, the difference between the seventh and eighth arrow wasn''t huge. Only the ninth arrow experienced a sharp rise, but the price was huge. He would fall into a slumber if he did not consume a Soul Heart Fruit. Now, having only shot the seventh arrow¡­ the injury Hou Yi received was completely within his limits. He too felt very happy.


    Qin Yun looked at the last Yellowbeard avatar who had its Dharmic powers sealed.


    Yellowbeard looked at Qin Yun and said calmly, "Sword Immortal Qin, I was blinded by greed and offended you. I only wish to ask¡­ if you will be willing to spare me."


    "Spare you?" Qin Yun looked at him.


    "I cherish my life," said Yellowbeard. "As long as you are willing to spare me, I''m willing to pay any price. I can be your servant, protecting the Qin family for all eternity. I''m also willing to protect the Qin family''s bloodline. I believe you require an expert that can protect the Qin family forever. With my means, I''m confident I can protect the Qin family''s wellbeing."


    "Pfft!"


    A sword beam tore through Yellowbeard''s body as his eyes flashed with despair, regret, and indignation before he dissipated into nothingness.


    At that moment, all of Yellowbeard''s avatars were obliterated.


    The perfected Great Dao expert, Elder Yellowbeard, was dead!


    Qin Yun stood there calmly as he watched the scene. Immense amounts of merit descended upon him, as well as Hou Yi. They appeared to be covered in a layer of golden light. The immensity of Yellowbeard''s sins was only slightly lower than Star Destruction''s.


    "Old loach, I''ll get anyone but you to protect my family," Qin Yun said softly. "Therefore, it''s best you die."


    When it came to keeping one''s word, Qin Yun would believe Hou Yi and Ancestral Dragon''s promises.


    But for the old loach¡­ his strength was far from the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. The karma generated from going back on his promises only affected his cultivation. In the Three Realms, it was common for mighty figures to betray their masters and harm their friends. So how could Qin Yun believe Yellowbeard''s promise? As for fully controlling a perfected Great Dao expert, the Three Realms had no such means.


    "Well killed." The voice of his master, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, sounded in his ears. It had a hint of satisfaction.


    The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were also rather pleased at the turn of events.


    The Daoists and Buddhists had always been trying to kill Yellowbeard, but they were simply incapable of doing so.


    "Impressive."


    "He really killed Elder Yellowbeard."


    "Isn''t it said that no one beneath the Heavenly Dao realm can kill the old loach?"


    "Who knew that Hou Yi''s nine successive arrows after burning his Essence Soul are that terrifying? Hou Yi has never done it before."


    "A high and mighty perfected Great Dao is dead just like that."


    "What grudge did Yellowbeard have with Sword Immortal Qin and Hou Yi? What made them join forces while sparing no expenses to deal with him?"


    The Three Realms sighed at the death of a perfected Great Dao, but were also curious about the grudge between Yellowbeard and Qin Yun.


    "Congratulations, Brother Qin Yun for killing that old loach." Kong Xuan''s remote voice transmission sounded.


    "Brother Kong Xuan, Brother Hou Yi will be taking my granddaughter, Yuluo, as his disciple a month from now. There will be a banquet for many friends. It will be held at Hou Yi''s cave abode in the Effulgent Great World. You must come," said Qin Yun via a voice transmission.


    "Definitely," Kong Xuan replied.


    ¡­


    "Brother Hou Yi, you are truly terrifying when burning your Essence Soul to deliver the nine successive arrows. Unfortunately, I only got to see the seventh arrow." The Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation sent a voice transmission to Hou Yi. "By the way, how did that old loach offend you for you to be willing to pay such a price?"


    "He threatened Brother Qin Yun with the Qin family''s lives. It enraged Brother Qin Yun who wanted Yellowbeard dead, so he requested my help." Hou Yi said with a smile via voice transmission. "I''ll be publicly taking Qin Yun''s granddaughter, Fairy Yuluo, in as my disciple in a month in my cave abode. You must come."


    "You are taking in a disciple, and she''s Qin Yun''s granddaughter? Sure, I''ll definitely be there." the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation replied.


    ¡­


    "So that''s the reason. That old loach was really courting death." Rushou learned of the reason after communicating with Qin Yun via voice transmission.


    "Brother Rushou, it''s settled then. You have to come next month."


    "Hou Yi is taking in a disciple and she''s your granddaughter. I''ll definitely be there. I''ll also prepare a gift," Rushou responded with a laugh.


    ¡­


    "Brother Qin Yun, I''ll definitely be there next month," replied Yang Jian as well.


    ¡­


    "Hou Yi helped you kill Yellowbeard and is also taking in your granddaughter as his disciple? Your relationship sure isn''t ordinary. Don''t worry. I''ll definitely be there," replied his Eldest Senior Sister, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    ¡­


    Friends sent their congratulations as Qin Yun and Hou Yi invited them to witness the ceremony a month later.


    Their social network combined included the human''s Three Sovereigns, Ancestral Dragon, Goddess Houtu, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity and Salvation, Kong Xuan, Queen Mother, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, Myriad Treasure, Goumang, Rushou, and company. Just the perfected Great Dao existences made up a huge bunch! There was no need to mention the perfected Great Dao existences. It was destined to be a rare celebration in the Three Realms!

 714 Grand Disciple Recruitment Ceremony

    After killing the lord of the Yellowbeard Great World, Qin Yun separated from Hou Yi and returned the Heaven and Earth Myriad Objects Noose to Kong Xuan before returning to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    News of Yellowbeard''s death also began spreading.


    After all, he was a lord of a Great World, a perfected Great Dao existence!


    As Qin Yun invited his good friends, he also gave a simple account of the situation! As more people learned of the reason, the reason also spread. Soon, the mighty figures of the Three Realms learned that¡­ Yellowbeard had called his demise upon himself. By threatening Sword Immortal Qin with the Qin family''s life, he infuriated the sword immortal. Later on, Sword Immortal Qin captured two of Yellowbeard''s avatars alive and Hou Yi shot seven arrows while burning his Essence Soul¡­


    This resulted in the death of another ancient existence.


    ¡­


    With Mt. Lightning Roar''s Qin family''s standing in the Three Realms, the Qin family quickly learned of what their patriarch, Sword Immortal Qin, had done.


    In Crescent Bay at the foot of Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yiyi and Han Lin were walking alongside Crescent Bay.


    "Dad sure is impressive." Qin Yiyi''s eyes were sparkling. "A lord of a Great World, dead just like that! Double Wood, I learned of this news hours ago, but I still feel pumped."


    Han Lin nodded. "I''m also excited. Father-in-law is about to transcend the tribulation. At this critical juncture, the lord of the Yellowbeard Great World actually threatened him with our lives¡­ How despicable! I never expected an ancient existence would do such despicable thing."


    "That''s why I''m even more impressed with Dad," Qin Yiyi said with excitement. "He thoroughly kills his enemy when he puts his mind to it. He did a great job killing him, and it''s exhilarating!"


    "I''m also impressed with Father-in-law," said Han Lin wistfully. "That''s a perfected Great Dao existence. Speaking of which, together with Patriarch Spirit Devouring, Father-in-law has already killed two perfected Great Dao existences."


    Qin Yiyi said, "Dad is also really taking painstaking efforts to shock and awe those evildoers."


    Han Lin smiled and said, "Father-in-law was able to get Hou Yi to burn his Essence Soul to deliver seven arrows, and that''s truly impressive. Furthermore, Hou Yi has agreed to take in Yuluo as his disciple. I heard that¡­ this disciple recruitment ceremony has invited many ancient existences to bear witness."


    "This is because Senior Hou Yi is willing to protect our Qin family." Qin Yiyi wore a look of mixed emotions. "The inviting of so many parties to bear witness, it is because Dad is about to face the tribulation. He''s perhaps afraid of succumbing to the tribulation and worried for our safety. It''s why he sought Hou Yi''s help. Dad really worries for us."


    Hou Yi nodded gently. "This matter is very beneficial to Yuluo. By being Hou Yi''s disciple, her future will be even more promising."


    "Okay." Qin Yiyi revealed a smile.


    Qin Yuluo was their daughter.


    As parents, they were naturally more delighted the more achievements their daughter had.


    "Dad is doing all these things to prepare an outlet for the Qin family," said Qin Yiyi softly. "I wish to do something as well to help Dad. I''m even willing to give up my life if it helps Dad in transcending the tribulations."


    "We shouldn''t distract Father-in-law," consoled Han Lin.


    Qin Yiyi fell silent.


    She wanted to do something, but discovered that she was of no help.


    She could only watch her father face the tribulation!


    She still remembered her youth, back at the moment of utter despair, when her father found her. From then on, her father became an eternal backer! Now, her father was facing a calamity, but as a daughter, all she could do was watch.


    ******


    "Grandfather." Qin Yuluo came into a study.


    Qin Yun was sitting there reading through books. When he looked up and saw his granddaughter, he could not help but smile.


    His granddaughter Qin Yuluo was extremely talented. Her Sword Dao talent was abnormally high, but limited by her lack of accumulated insight and experience, she was still stuck at the ninth firmament Skyimmortal realm. However, her strength had long matched that of a mighty figure.


    "Yuluo, are you aware of what''s going to happen?" asked Qin Yun.


    "Mom and Dad have informed me," Qin Yuluo said.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun said, "At this disciple recruitment ceremony, mighty figures from all over will be invited to bear witness. It is to let the Three Realms understand that even if I fail to transcend the tribulation, Brother Hou Yi will be protecting you."


    "Grandfather, you will definitely succeed," said Qin Yuluo immediately.


    "Yeah." Qin Yun nodded and said, "I got you to take Brother Hou Yi as a master because his Heart Force lineage''s Dharmic formulation is indeed miraculous. Brother Hou Yi is able to fight above his own level, having strength at the Heavenly Dao realm because of his Heart Force Dharmic formulation. While I was adventuring in the spatial tide, I saw wonders of the Heart Force lineage up close. You must cultivate it wholeheartedly. Although Green Touring Palace also has a Heart Force lineage manual, this lineage was created by Brother Hou Yi¡­ Having him guide you personally will naturally be for the best."


    Qin Yun was from the Green Touring Palace.


    His children and descendants, as well as his disciples, were naturally considered to be part of the Green Touring Palace lineage. Therefore, they could also learn the Dharmic formulations from Green Touring Palace.


    "I will definitely work hard cultivating it," replied Qin Yuluo immediately.


    "Fusing the Heart Force Dharmic formulation into your sword array arts would be infinitely promising." Qin Yun nodded. "Alright. Stay in Mt. Lightning Roar for the next few weeks. Once the time comes, I''ll bring you to the Effulgent Great World."


    "Yes," replied Qin Yuluo respectfully.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, Yellowbeard had been dead for a month.


    In the Effulgent Great World, Hou Yi''s cave abode.


    Hou Yi usually didn''t stay here, but it was indeed bustling here that day. Many mighty figures had arrived.


    In the main hall.


    There were guests everywhere. A huge bunch of Green Touring Palace mighty figures attended, but ordinary mighty figures could only sit in the periphery.


    "Second Brother Guo, how many years has it been since a celebration of this scale has happened in the Three Realms?" Yellow-robed Supremacy and a particular Daoist Guo Ren sat near each other. Yellow-robed Supremacy said in amazement, "Look at those sitting up there. Ancestral Dragon is here. Senior Brother Myriad Treasure is present as well despite not having made an appearance for years. Even Guan Yin from the Buddhists is here. All Three Sovereigns of humanity are present as well!"


    Daoist Guo nodded and said, "Even Patriarch Subhuti is here too. Rushou, Goumang, Goddess Houtu are also present¡­ More than ten perfected Great Dao existences are here! Even pinnacle mighty figures can only sit further back. As for us at the ordinary mighty figure level, we can only sit here."


    "Hehehe, the Heavenly Courts has been trying to capture me all this while. Here I am today, and there are many mighty figures from the Heavenly Courts in attendance, but they only pretend as if they aren''t seeing me." Yellow-robed Supremacy chuckled. His eyes were cold as he hated the Heavenly Courts.


    "Today''s stars are Senior Brother Qin and Hou Yi! Who would dare cause trouble?" said Daoist Guo.


    "Hmph, don''t be fooled by the numerous mighty figures present here today. At critical junctures, it''s already good enough if they don''t stab you in the back." Yellow-robed Supremacy said via a voice transmission. "I''ve already seen through the likes of these mighty figures."


    "I realized it during the battle of the three Daoists sects. However, we have to deal with the fiends first. Until their eradication¡­ all parties share an amicable relationship," said Daoist Guo via a voice transmission. "Besides, as long as Senior Brother Qin transcends the tribulation successfully, heh. Our Green Touring Palace''s say in the Three Realms would be even greater."


    "Yes, I hope Senior Brother Qin transcends the tribulation successfully." Yellow-robed Supremacy turned wistful. Back when he first knew Qin Yun, Qin Yun was just a mortal sword immortal genius. Now, he was one of the few strongest ones beneath the Heavenly Dao realm, and a pillar of support of Green Touring Palace.


    The numerous Green Touring Palace mighty figures wished that Senior Brother Qin would transcend the tribulation successfully and gain eternal life.


    In the grand hall, a group of perfected Great Dao existences were chatting among themselves. Qin Yun only accompanied them out of politeness. The perfected Great Dao existences were from all sorts of factions with different interests at play. It would be a joke if one truly believed that someone would risk their lives for the Qin family. Therefore, Qin Yun had only requested for their help after giving Hou Yi and Ancestral Dragon enough benefits.


    "In fact, the people I trust more are the Three Sovereigns of humanity." Qin Yun looked at the Three Human Sovereigns. They had all figured out the Human Spirit and were more trustworthy. However, they were only another one of his backups.


    "Yuluo." Qin Yun suddenly spoke, his voice echoing through the hall.


    Immediately, all the mighty figures fell silent.


    A woman walked into the hall, looking gentle and staid as she exuded a faint Sword Dao aura.


    "Everyone, this is my granddaughter, Qin Yuluo." Qin Yun said with a laugh as his voice filled the hall. Beside him, Hou Yi said with a laugh, "I noticed that Qin Yuluo is extremely talented and thought of taking her in as my disciple. After discussing with Brother Qin Yun, we decided on going ahead. Today, we wish for everyone to bear witness."


    "Hou Yi is taking in a disciple, and she''s Sword Immortal Qin''s granddaughter¡­ This is surely a beautiful tale of our Three Realms. We are honored to bear witness," said Goumang with a smile.


    Many voices echoed the sentiment.


    Even those that did not speak nodded their heads slightly.


    They were giving Sword Immortal Qin and Hou Yi face. These perfected Great Dao existences all knew that once the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, Fiend Ancestor, and company were forced to leave the Three Realms, if Sword Immortal Qin were to transcend the tribulation and gain eternal life¡­ Even if a storm would stir in the Three Realms with all kinds of old fellows appearing, Sword Immortal Qin and Hou Yi were bound to have great influence.


    Therefore, among this tacit understanding, the mighty figures watched the ceremony as Hou Yi took Qin Yuluo as his disciple officially!


    For a disciple recruitment to happen on such a grand scale, Qin Yuluo''s case was truly a rare one in the history of the Three Realms.

 715 Arrangements

    After the killing Yellowbeard and Hou Yi''s taking in of a disciple, the Three Realms saw the determination in Sword Immortal Qin.


    The Qin family was the soft spot for Qin Yun¡­


    Hitting it would definitely result in Qin Yun''s fervent revenge! With Qin Yun sparing no costs for revenge, especially just before his tribulation, no ancient existence in the Three Realms dared to provoke him. It also allowed him to live the remaining days in peace.


    ¡­


    He taught his children and disciples while waiting for the day of the tribulation to come.


    Three months after Yellowbeard was killed, his disciple, Bian Hanyu, easily condensed an Essence Soul after some meditative preparation through the Misty Rain lineage''s sword immortal Dharmic formulation!


    Qin Yun paid his only successor of the sword immortal Dharmic formulation great attention. Furthermore, Bian Hanyu was indeed extremely talented. She was one of the top Sword Dao geniuses in the Three Realms. If not for her being plagued by mental demons, she would have long been snatched away by the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage. As for the other Sword Dao genius who lacked mental demons, Yu Gufeng, he finally chose the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage when given the two choices.


    Bian Hanyu was extremely talented. Without a powerful master, she had managed to reach the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm in a few centuries. In terms of talent, she was in no way inferior to Qin Yun of yesteryear.


    It was only after Qin Yun became the Heavenly Lord of Numinous Treasure''s disciple and with the aid of the Myriad Dharma Pool that his strength rose rapidly, allowing him to match a mighty figure at the Skyimmortal realm.


    Most critically¡­


    When faced with the fiend, Star Destruction, Qin Yun did not choose to flee. Instead, he faced the tribulation and became an Itinerant Immortal as a final bet! That bet ended up allowing him to figure out a Great Dao! After that, it naturally developed into the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man which led to his mastery of all three Great Dao and his attainment of a perfected Great Dao! The metamorphic change started from his becoming an Itinerant Immortal.


    The changes a cultivator underwent were determined by the numerous choices they took on their cultivation path. Every choice was a way of honing and sculpting their experiences.


    If they were not like Chaos Godfiends who were born powerful, it was truly difficult to cultivate independently to the perfected Great Dao realm.


    "Hanyu." In Qin Manor''s garden, Qin Yun stood in front of some bonsai decorations.


    "Master." Bian Hanyu reverently stood to the side.


    "Look at these bonsai. Do they remind you of something?" asked Qin Yun.


    Bian Hanyu looked at the bonsai, perplexed. After some hesitation, she said, "This is a pine tree which reminds me of the pine trees on the cliffs. They undergo great difficulties living in those treacherous conditions but are able to live for long periods of time."


    Qin Yun smiled. "For it to grow into this, it''s all thanks to the servants who trim and carefully maintain it while deliberately sculpting it¡­ It is how they are able to grow into this."


    Bian Hanyu nodded.


    Aren''t all bonsai like that? They grew to their final form by pruning and deliberate care.


    "If a tree doesn''t undergo any pruning and is led to grow, it will unlikely turn into this." Qin Yun pointed at the bonsai while he looked at Bian Hanyu. "Hanyu, your talent is no lesser than mine."


    "I''m still far inferior," said Bian Hanyu immediately. Her master was the number one sword immortal in the Three Realms after all.


    "However, there are many people in the Three Realms who are talented. Even in this generation, there''s someone like Yu Gufeng as well as the few disciples that the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage has recruited. All of them are comparable to you," said Qin Yun. "If we extend our sights to the entire history of the Three Realms, the number of geniuses with talents matching yours would be even higher. Many of them fail to gain insights into a Great Dao to become a mighty figure, much less reach a realm like mine."


    Bian Hanyu nodded.


    Qin Yun looked at Bian Hanyu. "Back then, I was faced with a very important choice. I was faced with the destruction of my homeworld. I could have chose to flee, but if I did, I would definitely not have improved so rapidly. I might be able to create a Skyimmortal Dharmic formulation independently and eventually become a mighty figure, but the knot in my heart for abandoning my homeworld would probably have prevented me from attaining a perfected Great Dao. If I had escaped, I would probably have long gained eternal life.


    "A cultivation path is just like that. Different choices with different outcomes.


    "Just like this bonsai, it is sculpted into this form through pruning. If it was allowed to grow wildly, it would probably look different.


    "As my disciple, what realm you cultivate to in the future will depend on your own choices," said Qin Yun. "Different choices will lead to different outcomes. Remember what I''ve told you today."


    With that said, Qin Yun turned his head and left.


    "I''ll remember." Bian Hanyu''s heart tightened.


    Having become the disciple of the number one sword immortal in the Three Realms, having her revenge exacted, and being able to read many Sword Dao manuals, she once felt that the Great Dao was a straight, smooth-sailing path for her.


    But now, having heard what her master had said¡­


    She suddenly realized the truth. "When one has a heart of bravery and desire to improve, one should never slacken. Only by maintaining one''s Heart of the Sword would there be a chance of attaining a Great Dao. Any diversions will only steer one away from the Great Dao!"


    ¡­


    Although Bian Hanyu had long reached the mid-stages of the Skyimmortal realm, she was in no rush as she patiently cultivated.


    On the thirtieth year of her being Qin Yun''s disciple, due to the speed of cultivation as a third firmament Essence Soul being faster than a mortal, along with the many valuable Sword Dao manuals, and Qin Yun''s guidance¡­ she broke through once again, having her Sword Dao realm rise to that of the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm. This delighted Qin Yun.


    On the thirty-first year of her being Qin Yun''s disciple, she finally transcended the Heavenly Tribulation.


    She faced the series of Wind, Fire, and Lightning tribulations.


    She breezed through the Heavenly Tribulation without any accident, and with Qin Yun, Yi Xiao, Meng Huan, Qin Yiyi, and Qin Yuluo bearing witness, she successfully fused Essence Soul and body as one! She officially became a sword immortal at the Skyimmortal realm.


    "It''s a success. Brother Yun, Hanyu has succeeded." Yi Xiao was overjoyed.


    "Soul and body as one. Junior Sister Hanyu has become a Skyimmortal." Qin Yiyi was also delighted as she added, "Congratulations, Dad. Our Misty Rain lineage''s sword immortal Dharmic formulation¡­ is capable of cultivating a Skyimmortal."


    "Not only a Skyimmortal," said Meng Huan. "She will definitely become a Golden Immortal in the future."


    Qin Yun smiled as he felt quite pleased.


    In his life of cultivation, he was most proud of the sword immortal Dharmic formulation he created. To have a disciple finally become a Skyimmortal using it made up for his own regrets.


    "There''s likely a chance for the Golden Immortal Dharmic formulation; unfortunately, I won''t have a chance to see it before my tribulation," thought Qin Yun. "There''s a few years left before the tribulation. Although Bian Hanyu is excellent, she''s still far from reaching the Skyimmortal bottleneck, much less from breaking through that bottleneck to attain a Great Dao.


    "Only when this Dharmic formulation of mine produced a Golden Immortal does it prove that it''s not inferior to the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage."


    Although he was strong, he was ultimately an Itinerant Immortal. it was not suitable for his disciple to take the same path.


    "Master." Bian Hanyu came before Qin Yun after transcending the tribulation.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun pointed his finger as a wisp of Dharmic powers seeped into Bian Hanyu''s body. As he probed her Dharmic powers, he could not help but nod. "Very good. Your Dharmic powers are indeed pure."


    Qin Yun was happy that the Misty Rain lineage''s sword immortal Dharmic formulation could lead to a Skyimmortal. On that day, there was a celebration in the manor, and the next day, he went to visit Hou Yi for drinks.


    Time flew by.


    The day of the tribulation drew near. Many in the Three Realms began discussing Sword Immortal Qin since the day of his tribulation was coming.


    "The day of my tribulation is in three days. I have things I need to tell all of you." Qin Yun and Yi Xiao walked ahead. Behind them were Meng Huan, Qin Yiyi, and Qin Yuluo as they came to the Qin family''s Treasure Pavilion.


    Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, and Qin Yuluo exchanged looks, feeling puzzled.


    "My Qin family''s Treasure Pavilion is known to all of you," Qin Yun said. "However, there is a hidden building in it that you are unaware of."


    "We aren''t aware of?" The three were puzzled.


    Yi Xiao waved her hand as the void in front of them separated, revealing a hidden building. "You will know when you enter."


    They followed a corridor into another building which was huge. It spanned more than a hundred thousand feet and there were manuals, but even more impressive were the valuable treasures. There were also Connate Numinous treasures that sparkled. It left Qin Yiyi and company in a daze.


    "There are three Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasures in here. Seven ordinary Connate Numinous treasures," said Qin Yun.


    Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, and Qin Yiyi looked in astonishment.


    "They were all obtained by me in the spatial tide," said Qin Yun. "After killing those other-universe cultivators, I also obtained a few perfected Great Dao corpses. Each of these corpses are valued no less than a Connate Pinnacle Numinous treasure. If they are refined into puppets, they would probably have the strength of pinnacle Great Dao existences. However, refining them wouldn''t be easy! There are also some extremely precious mystical items. A number of manuals here are from other-universe cultivators.


    "There''s also the Heavenly Dao realm bloodline powers from other universes, Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals, Pangu bloodline powers, and other such items," said Qin Yun. "However, Treasure Pavilion has its rules. The treasures are not to be taken out on a whim."


    "We understand." Meng Huan and Qin Yiyi said. Qin Yuluo also obediently answered.


    "If there were to be trouble in the future, seek out Green Touring Palace, the dragons'' Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, and the Three Sovereigns of humanity in Fire Cloud Palace," said Qin Yun. "They will do the best they can."


    There was no need to mention Green Touring Palace.


    Ancestral Dragon and Hou Yi had already given him their promises.


    As for Fire Cloud Palace''s Three Sovereigns of humanity, he would also gift them handsomely! One, it was for humanity, and two, with such a handsome gift, the Three Sovereigns would definitely strive to protect the Qin family.


    "These things I leave behind are not my most important treasures," Qin Yun thought wistfully.


    The flying boat which Bohan Island Lord used, that set of spatial shields, and the half-step Heavenly Dao corpse of the physical lineage were enough to drive ancient existences in the Three Realms into a frenzy. For example, the corpse matching the Ancestral Dragon was something even Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, and company wanted.


    Unfortunately, Qin Yun did not dare leave items that were too precious in the Qin family manor. Without the strength, those treasures would only invite trouble. The treasures he had left behind was already stunning enough. If not for his tribulation, he would be in no hurry to tell his descendants about those.

 716 Master and Disciple

    That day, Qin Yun came to Fire Cloud Palace again.


    "Qin Yun." Suirenshi, Fuxishi, and Shennongshi came out to welcome him. Suirenshi was the first to ask, "Might I know why you came looking for us when your tribulation is in three days?"


    "Do you wish for Fire Cloud Palace to protect your family?" Shennongshi said with a laugh. "Don''t worry. Fire Cloud Palace''s mission is to protect humanity. We will definitely protect your family."


    The humans in Fire Cloud Palace were united to begin with.


    It was normal for them to protect the families of human mighty figures.


    Qin Yun cupped his hands and said, "It''s true that I came here today to request that Fire Cloud Palace protect my Qin family. However, that is only one of the reasons. The second reason has to do with treasures."


    "Treasures?" The three were perplexed.


    "Does Fire Cloud Palace have a large empty space?" inquired Qin Yun.


    "Follow me." Suirenshi led the way and soon, they arrived in a fiery space. The space was vast, spanning five hundred kilometers, but it was hidden within Fire Cloud Palace.


    Suirenshi smiled. "Qin Yun, how''s this space? Is it big enough?"


    "This is our Fire Cloud Palace''s biggest space. If it''s not enough, we don''t have anything bigger," said Shennongshi with a laugh.


    "It''s enough. Definitely." Qin Yun laughed as he waved his hand, making a massive corpse the size of a mountain appear in the fiery space. The moment it appeared, it shocked Suirenshi and company.


    The massive corpse emanated an aura the began influencing the fiery space.


    Suirenshi and company even felt their auras being suppressed.


    "What a powerful body." Shennongshi stared at it in shock. "The potency of this body is incredulous. Perhaps only the Ancestral Dragon can compare with this."


    "The aura it emanates¡­ If mortals or Essence Soul realm cultivators were to be around this corpse, they will be influenced by it and experience a change in their bloodlines, turning into a clan with powerful bodies," said Suirenshi. "Only those at the Skyimmortal realm who have fused Essence Soul and body as one can withstand this influence."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    Bodies that had reached the half-step Heavenly Dao realm possessed strong influential power.


    For instance, the nine sons of the Ancestral Dragon were all impressive. The children of the nine sons were all Skydragons. The Skydragons'' descendants with other dragons would typically result in the True Dragon realm. The True Dragons'' descendants with other races would typically result in ordinary dragons. Finally, the descendants of ordinary dragons with other races would result in wyrms or other creatures.


    Why was the dragons'' bloodline that potent? It was because of its source¡ªthe Ancestral Dragon.


    Even across multiple generations, the influence his bloodline had was extremely terrifying.


    As for the Ancestral Dragon himself?


    Just by staying in an area for an extended period of time, if he did not converge his aura, it would cause the surrounding races to mutate towards the state of a dragon.


    And the corpse Qin Yun had produced was on the same level as the Ancestral Dragon.


    "This is an expert from the spatial tide," said Qin Yun. "Back then, Hou Yi and I spent quite a bit of effort to kill him. Today, I''ll be giving it to Fire Cloud Palace."


    "You are giving it to us?" Shennongshi could not help but say, "This corpse is extremely precious. Even the most wasteful method can refine it into a Guardian General which will have the strength of a perfected Great Dao."


    The creation of a Guardian General would typically reduce its original strength.


    For instance, if the corpses of perfected Great Dao experts were to be made into puppets, without knowledge of the Great Dao, just their bodies would typically be capable of producing perfected Great Dao strength.


    And a half-step Heavenly Dao realm of the perfected Great Dao had too potent a body. Yet, after becoming a puppet, they would still possess the strength of an ordinary perfected Great Dao, just slightly weaker than when they were alive.


    "This is the most wasteful method. If more effort is placed in, just fusing his blood with various herbs, we can refine pills that aid in physical cultivation! I believe it wouldn''t even be difficult to refine pills that match Ancestral Dragon Blood Crystals," said Shennongshi. Besides, even if this corpse were to lose some blood, it would slowly recover by naturally absorbing the external world''s Heaven and Earth powers."


    "It''s completely undying and indestructible. It''s like a treasure trove." Shennongshi looked at Qin Yun. "Its value is above that of a Connate Cardinal treasure. Are you really giving it to Fire Cloud Palace?"


    Suirenshi and Fuxishi looked at Qin Yun as well.


    The gift was just too valuable.


    "Even the most simple usage of turning it into a puppet will not happen easily," said Qin Yun with a smile. "I think it''s best left to the three of you to decide on it."


    "Qin Yun, if you transcend the tribulation successfully, you will naturally be able to make use of it over time," said Suirenshi.


    "If I transcend the tribulation successfully, these treasures would no longer be important to me," said Qin Yun. "If I have a need for them, I can just get them from the spatial tide."


    His strength was increasing.


    Hou Yi would also consume the Spirit Enlightening Fruit in the future, and his strength would improve as well.


    If he transcended the tribulation, he could pay the spatial tide a visit together with Hou Yi! When that happened, even if Hou Yi had reached the Heavenly Dao realm, Qin Yun would ask for him to keep his Essence Soul Dharmic powers at the Golden Immortal realm and not rush to break through. With their combined forces¡­ they would be more powerful than the last time. Even if they encountered someone as strong as Bohan Island Lord, they would be able to easily crush them.


    However, that was all speculative!


    That would be after Hou Yi consumed the Spirit Enlightening Fruit and after Qin Yun successfully transcended the tribulation¡­


    "I wish that day will come," thought Qin Yun.


    "Three Sovereigns, I will soon face my tribulations, so I won''t impose myself any further," Qin Yun said with a laugh. "I bid you farewell."


    Fuxishi and company exchanged looks. However, they did not reject the gift and took it before seeing Qin Yun out.


    At the door of Fire Cloud Palace.


    Watching Qin Yun leave, the Three Sovereigns exchanged looks.


    "This gift that Qin Yun gave us sure is valuable," Suirenshi mused.


    "Even if he wishes for us to protect the Qin family, there''s no need for him to gift us something this valuable," said Fuxishi.


    Shennongshi said, "We owe him one, so all we can do is slowly repay him in the future."


    ¡­


    Even if Qin Yun failed to transcend the tribulation, and the Dao Ancestors and company were forced to leave the Three Realms, anyone who dared to attack Qin Yun''s family, be it for revenge or treasures, perhaps Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, and the Three Sovereigns would be the first to respond! As things were, the combined forces of these three were probably greater than that of the fiends.


    "There''s Master as well."


    Qin Yun went to Green Touring Palace and headed for the main palace. This was the final person he wanted to meet before his tribulation. On his cultivation path, his master had been protecting him all the time.


    "My disciple, come on in." His master''s voice sounded from the main palace.


    Qin Yun walked in and saw Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor sitting on a bed of clouds.


    He was feeling mixed emotions as he went forward and knelt down. "Greetings, Master."


    "Silly child. Quick, get up," Numinous Treasure urged. After becoming a mighty figure, his disciples typically had no need to kneel. By doing so, Qin Yun was clearly paying his last respects to his master before the tribulation.


    If he failed to transcend the tribulation, it would also be his last time kowtowing to his master.


    Only then did Qin Yun stand up with reddened eyes. He said gloomily, "After I return, I''ll be focusing on my preparation to transcend the tribulation. I will not be able to visit you again, so I ask for your forgiveness."


    "With your strength, you will definitely transcend the tribulation successfully," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded. He flipped his hand and a flying boat appeared in his palm. "This flying boat was a cardinal treasure I chanced upon in the spatial tide. Its extremely fast and since you will need to leave the Three Realms in the future, this flying boat might be of use to you."


    With that said, the flying boat flew towards Numinous Treasure.


    When he received it and looked it through, he said with some shock, "This flying boat is indeed extraordinary."


    It was indeed extraordinary.


    This flying boat was refined by Bohan Island Lord who had also reached the Heavenly Dao realm together with his comprehension of the cultivation systems of many other-universes. And this flying boat he used personally was refined using all sorts of rare items without any consideration for cost. In terms of strength, Numinous Treasure was stronger than Bohan Island Lord due to the transformation of his Essence Soul Dharmic powers. But in terms of knowledge, he was truly inferior to Bohan Island Lord.


    To revive his wife, Bohan Island Lord had fervently sought out other cultivation systems and even captured a large number of other-universe cultivators to force them to reveal their various Dharmic formulations. As such, he cultivated in many other systems.


    "Our Three Realms doesn''t have such a fast flying boat." Numinous Treasure looked at his disciple and felt moved. He said, "Disciple, this gift will indeed be of great help to me."


    "As long as it can help you, Master." Qin Yun smiled. "Then, I shall take my leave."


    "Hold on."


    Numinous Treasure flipped his hand as he spoke, producing a black circular disc in his palm. From it, flying swords flew out, thousands that floated in midair.


    "This is the Myriad Sword Array I refined," said Numinous Treasure. "After you return, set this up in Mt. Lightning Roar. It can be the cornerstone array formation to protect your Mt. Lightning Roar."


    "Thank you, Master." Qin Yun was moved. Without any need for explanation, just from the mystical runes on each of the thousands of swords, it was clear that refining them was very complicated. Clearly, his master had long begun refining them.


    "Disciple."


    Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun and said solemnly, "If you were to gain eternal life after transcending the tribulation, you will be Green Touring Palace''s new sect master! If you fail to transcend the tribulation, I''ll definitely protect your family. This is my promise as your master! Go on!"


    "Yes." Qin Yun''s eyes reddened as he bowed reverently before taking his leave.


    Numinous Treasure watched his disciple step out the palace before he muttered, "You are the disciple I''m most proud and satisfied with. You must succeed in transcending the tribulation."


    Following that, he closed his eyes and waited silently for the day of Qin Yun''s tribulation to arrive.

 717 Arrival of the Heavenly Tribulation

    <p>After Qin Yun returned to Mt. Lightning Roar, he first set up the Myriad Sword Array and instructed his wife and children on the secrets to controlling the array formation. Following that, he entered a chamber and chose not to meet anyone.</p><p>"I have done everything I can for my family." Qin Yun sat cross-legged on a mat. "I do not need to concern myself with it further. Each person has their own fates.</p><p>"All I need to do now is to focus on transcending the tribulation."</p><p>Qin Yun closed his eyes.</p><p>After throwing his family, master, friends, and everything aside, the only thing left in his mind was cultivation, his Sword Dao.</p><p>Qin Yun peacefully closed his eyes in meditation as he scrutinized his Sword Dao as its charms kept flashing past his mind.</p><p>Three days left before the tribulation¡­</p><p>Two days left¡­</p><p>One day left¡­</p><p>As the moment drew nearer, Qin Yun''s heart turned even calmer. Deep in his calmness hid infinite fighting spirit that was akin to a volcano! He wished to shatter the legendary Itinerant Immortal tribulations!</p><p>"Oh?"</p><p>Qin Yun slowly opened his eyes as a sharp glint flashed from them. "Three days have passed. The Heavenly Tribulation is coming?"</p><p>The three days of peaceful cultivation made his Dao heart improve one step further. Presently, his Dao heart was ever so clear without any burdens or concerns. He had an indomitable momentum that would destroy all obstacles before him.</p><p>"Rumble~"</p><p>Qin Yun stood up and left the chamber to see a group of people gathered outside. His wife, parents, elder brother, Yiyi, Meng Huan, Yuluo, and others were there, as well as his disciples. They all shared extremely close relationships with Qin Yun.</p><p>"Yun''er." Qin Liehu and Changlan''s eyes were bloodshot. They were now carefree Skyimmortals, but their son, Qin Yun, had to face the most terrifying Itinerant Immortal tribulation.</p><p>"Father, Mother, Brother, you came too." Qin Yun said with a smile.</p><p>"Brother, I believe that no tribulation can daunt you," said Qin An.</p><p>Qin Yun nodded as his gaze landed on his wife.</p><p>Yi Xiao extended her hands and grabbed his hands as they sensed the thoughts of each other. Yi Xiao whispered, "Many mighty figures came today, many your best friends."</p><p>"I know." Qin Yun nodded. He had sensed them with a thought.</p><p>"Brother Yun, you don''t have to care about anything. Focus on transcending the tribulation." Yi Xiao looked at her husband as she said softly. "You know that I''m the one who hopes the most that your transcendence of the tribulation is a success."</p><p>"Yeah, it''s about time. I need to face the tribulation," Qin Yun said with a smile as he swept his gaze across Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, Yuluo, Bian Hanyu, Qing Shuang, and others. Following that, he took a step and flew into the distance.</p><p>"Dad." Qin Yiyi and Meng Huan were gripped with anxiety.</p><p>All of them flew behind him as well.</p><p>However, they flew to another mountain peak of Mt. Lightning Roar, not daring to follow closely. They might get implicated by the terrifying Heavenly Tribulation if they came too close.</p><p>"Whoosh."</p><p>Qin Yun soared away from Mt. Lightning Roar and flew into the distance.</p><p>At a glance, he saw numerous mighty figures gathered at Mt. Lightning Roar. Fuxishi, Suirenshi, and Shennongshi were here. Kong Xuan, Rushou, Goumang, and Hou Yi, his comrades-in-arms were here as well. His Eldest Senior Sister, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, and Myriad Treasure who had long become a Buddhist, were here as well! There was Ancestral Dragon and Yang Jian too.</p><p>There were also old friends from the Great Chang world. Human Emperor, Ancestral Master Zhang, Ninth Hong, and Eighth Zhu from the Great Chang world, as well as Yellow-robed Supremacy and Immortal Sa Xu.</p><p>A large bunch of people with relationships with Qin Yun arrived at Mt. Lightning Roar.</p><p>He smiled as he looked at them and was met with smiling faces. None of them came forward to bother Qin Yun.</p><p>"Whoosh."</p><p>Qin Yun flew out of Mt. Lightning Roar''s vicinity and landed on the peak of a mountain about fifty kilometers away.</p><p>Looking up towards the firmaments, a tribulation cloud was slowly gathering. In probably less than ten minutes, the Heavenly Tribulation would descend.</p><p>"There sure are many people watching my tribulation today." At Qin Yun''s realm, he could sense numerous mighty figures watching him remotely through space, such as the demon''s Demon Emperor Bai Ze, the Buddhists'' Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, the Empyrean Lords of the Heavenly Courts¡­ Nearly all the mighty figures in the Three Realms were watching.</p><p>"Hmph!"</p><p>In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Fiend Ancestor''s Destruction body looked remotely at Qin Yun. "The eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation required the strength of a perfected Great Dao to withstand it. The twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation probably needs strength at the Heavenly Dao realm. Qin Yun will definitely die this time! Today, I''ll watch him die! Once he''s dead, us fiends will have one less enemy. What follows will be a lot easier."</p><p>Sword Immortal Qin was definitely the vanguard when it came to dealing with the fiends. If possible, the Fiend Ancestor was willing to pay the price of a Connate Cardinal treasure to have Qin Yun dead!</p><p>Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do to Qin Yun.</p><p>In the Three Realms, with him under the protection of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, no one could kill Qin Yun as long as he did not court death. All the Fiend Ancestor could do was pin his hopes on the Heavenly Tribulation.</p><p>In Eight Scenic Palace, a white-bearded Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor said, "I remember that back when Bai Ze''s former incarnation faced the tribulations, he perished under the eighth Heavenly Lightning bolt at the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. The eighth Heavenly Lightning was already nearing the might of the Heavenly Dao realm."</p><p>"Perhaps the ninth Heavenly Lightning is at the Heavenly Dao realm," said Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning. "It''s just unknown how many bolts of Heavenly Lightning there are."</p><p>"If the Itinerant Immortal tribulations have an end, it definitely wouldn''t be this simple. After all, this is a tribulation count determined by the Chaos''s Heavenly Dao," said Goddess N¨¹wa. "Previously, the eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation was only a Fire Tribulation! Before that, it was only a Wind Tribulation¡­ I feel that if it''s the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation, then the three tribulations of Wind, Fire, and Lightning would all be very potent. And the Wind and Fire Tribulations that Bai Ze experienced in his former incarnation were weaker. Perhaps what Bai Ze previously experienced was just the tip of the iceberg of the final tribulation."</p><p>"N¨¹wa, do you think there will be a thirteenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation?" Numinous Treasure asked.</p><p>"I''m guessing that this is the final tribulation," said N¨¹wa. "If there''s a thirteenth one, how strong would it be? The tribulation count as set by the Chaos''s Heavenly Dao must have some end, after all."</p><p>"What N¨¹wa says makes sense," Buddhist Ancestor Gautama agreed. "I also agree that this should be the final tribulation. Bai Ze was weak in his previous incarnation, so we didn''t get to see the final twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulations. This time, I believe we will be able to see it all."</p><p>Numinous Treasure overlooked all of this as he watched his disciple face the tribulations.</p><p>Among the many Heavenly Dao realm existences, he was the most anxious one.</p><p>¡­</p><p>On the mountain, Qin Yun stood there facing the Heavenly Tribulation alone.</p><p>"If I can transcend this Heavenly Tribulation, I will be truly carefree! Death awaits me if I fail. There are no other paths for me except for the forging of a path of survival." Qin Yun silently looked at the tribulation cloud form.</p><p>"Phew¨C"</p><p>"The wind is stirring." Qin Yun sensed it. "The Wind Tribulation is coming."</p><p>The Wind Tribulation was a Yin wind that came from within his body.</p><p>There was no way of defending against it, not even with the Misty Rain Array. It was formed naturally within one''s body and swept across every part of his body. Qin Yun''s Essence Soul was powerful and his Dharmic powers pure. He was completely able to withstand the Yin winds.</p><p>Even as the Yin winds raged, external winds came! The Wind Tribulation began striking down¡­</p><p>"Set up the array!"</p><p>The Misty Rain Sword flew out and instantly split into three.</p><p>As a Misty Rain Array enveloped his surroundings with a misty drizzle, the Wind Tribulation''s strikes were completely defended by the Misty Rain Array. However, the Yin winds kept brewing in his body, like countless knives lacerating his Essence Soul as they grew with increasing strength.</p><p>"This Yin wind''s might sure is huge. My Essence Soul suffers immense damage from the laceration." Qin Yun sensed the damage he was inflicted with and slowly, he realized that his Essence Soul was being sliced by countless knives like a catharsis, a form of tempering! After experiencing the lacerations, his Essence Soul turned firmer like tempered metals. His Essence Soul also became purer from the tempering, even though it had shrank drastically.</p><p>Qin Yun flipped his hand and took out a jade bottle. He poured out an Immortal Pill and immediately consumed it to make up for the loss of his Dharmic powers.</p><p>The Essence Soul which had shrunk in size but turned more resilient restored to its original size after obtaining the energy from the Immortal Pill. Furthermore, the Essence Soul turned a lot more stronger.</p><p>"Oh?" Qin Yun suddenly felt a wind dissipate as the temperatures around him soared. "The Fire Tribulation is here."</p><p>It was the Fire Tribulation''s turn out of the three tribulations¡ªWind, Fire, Lightning.</p>

 718 Tribulation 1

    Mountaintop.


    Qin Yun stood there, sensing the surrounding temperatures rise rapidly. He also sensed a burning heat within his body as colorless flames burned in him.


    "It''s Heart Fire." Qin Yun had deep experience, and this time, he was facing the most horrifying Heart Fire.


    The Heart Fire spread throughout his Essence Soul, burning at his distracting thoughts, his desires, and mental demons.


    The more distracted his thoughts, the deeper the mental demons entrenched themselves. This made the Heart Fire burn even more vehemently.


    Even if one had a firm Dao heart, cultivating in the world produced many thoughts. Perhaps one would desire eternal life, have the wish to cultivate to a higher realm, or hope for more treasures¡­ all kinds of pursuits would be fuel for the Heart Fire, allowing it to burn stronger. Their desires would also become a lot more intense, and the chances of entering a state of lunacy was possible.


    "A Dao heart is like a blade. As the Heart Fire burns, it will temper the blade, making it sharper." Qin Yun clenched his teeth, forcefully stabilizing his Essence Soul. He continued controlling his Misty Rain Array to withstand the flames that were sent by the tribulation cloud above. Although Qin Yun could only divert a bit of attention to control the Misty Rain Array due to the Heart Fire''s influence, the Misty Rain Array was just too potent. It easily withstood the assaults of the flames in the outside world.


    "The Yin Wind from before and the Heart Fire now all appear right inside the body. No Dharma treasure can help," thought Qin Yun. "Although they are quite troublesome, as long as one cultivates to the perfected Great Dao normally, one''s Dao heart would be firm and likely capable of withstanding them. Perhaps only those Chaos Godfiends who were born perfected Great Dao existences might have lacking Dao hearts. Perhaps they would go crazy due to the Yin Winds and Heart Fire.


    "Bai Ze managed to withstand the Wind and Fire tribulation in his previous life. It shouldn''t be too difficult for me." Qin Yun looked up into the sky as the tribulation cloud''s colors turned darker. The flames that came bearing down finally came to a stop. "The Fire tribulation is over. Is the Lightning tribulation about to being?"


    The tribulation cloud began to flash with bolts of lightning as the lightning forces kept gathering strength.


    Not far away.


    On Mt. Lightning Roar, Yi Xiao, Qin Yiyi, Meng Huan, Qin Yuluo, Qin Liehu and his wife were all watching nervously.


    "The Lightning tribulation is about to begin," said Qin Yiyi nervously. "Back then, Bai Ze died under the eighth bolt of the Lightning tribulation before he reincarnated."


    "The Fiend Ancestor''s powers have penetrated Samsara. He won''t allow Father to reincarnate in peace," Meng Huan said worriedly. "To live, he will need to transcend the tribulation successfully."


    Yi Xiao did not say a word and only watched.


    ¡­


    "The Lightning tribulation is here." On another side of the Heavenly realm, Demon Emperor Bai Ze was watching remotely from deep within the clouds. He had once experienced the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation. "Back then, I only managed to last till the eighth Lightning bolt. Will there be a ninth? Tenth? Or even other tribulations after?"


    He had spent a lot of effort on the Itinerant Immortal path.


    He really yearned to know if this path would lead to eternal life.


    "It''s time for the Lightning tribulation." Deep in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body watched remotely. "Qin Yun, it''s best you die under the Lightning tribulation.


    "The Itinerant Immortal tribulations have always been divided by the three tribulations of Wind, Fire, and Lightning. The Lightning tribulation is likely the last.


    "I wonder how many bolts of Heavenly Lightning will smite down."


    Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, Kong Xuan, Fuxishi, Shennongshi, Suirenshi, and company all watched the figure on the peak not far away. Each one of them shared an extraordinary relationship with Qin Yun and wished for him to successfully transcend the tribulations.


    ¡­


    After the Fire tribulation ended, it took about half a minute before the tribulation cloud in the sky turned even darker. The countless lightning bolts continued to gather within, until the first bolt of Heavenly Lightning finally descended.


    "Boom!


    The Heavenly Lightning flashed and struck the Misty Rain Array but was blocked by it.


    "The first bolt of Heavenly Lightning has the might of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm?" Qin Yun calmly looked up. At this strength, the Heavenly Lightning posed him no threat.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    The Heavenly Lightning boomed as bolt after bolt descended onto him with increasing strength as the might gradually approached the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "The eighth Heavenly Lightning." Qin Yun focused fully on controlling his Misty Rain Array and carefully resisted the incoming strike.


    "Boom!"


    A more powerful Heavenly Lightning struck the Misty Rain Array, and although the Misty Rain Array stirred violently, it had completely withstood the blow.


    Qin Yun''s attainments in the Misty Rain Array were just too profound. Furthermore, he was casting it with an Intrinsic Connate Cardinal treasure and a Merit Cardinal treasure. The eighth Heavenly Lightning bolt did not have the right to make him burn his Essence Soul.


    "This eighth Heavenly Lightning''s might is almost that of the Heavenly Dao realm. It''s slightly stronger than Hou Yi''s eighth arrow," thought Qin Yun. "However, I don''t need to burn my Essence Soul when defending against Hou Yi''s ninth arrow now."


    Although he very easily withstood the eighth bolt of Heavenly Lightning, Qin Yun still took out a golden fruit. It was the extremely precious Soul Heart Fruit which was in no way inferior to a Connate Cardinal treasure. Qin Yun did not hesitate to swallow it. The Soul Heart Fruit melted instantly as a mysterious power filled his body. Qin Yun calmly looked at the terrifying tribulation cloud in the sky. "Everything before the eighth Heavenly Lightning for the Itinerant Immortal tribulation has precedents to refer to. However, no one knows what will happen after the eighth Heavenly Lightning! I''ll eat a Soul Heart Fruit first to prevent being suddenly plunged in danger without having the time to eat the Soul Heart Fruit."


    There was nothing wrong with being cautious.


    If it meant transcending the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, Qin Yun didn''t mind if he wasted a single Soul Heart Fruit.


    "Is there a ninth bolt of Heavenly Lightning?" Bai Ze watched nervously from a distance.


    "Back then, Bai Ze failed at the eighth bolt. What other tribulations are there after that?" Hou Yi watched with knitted brows.


    ¡­


    "Boom!"


    The ninth bolt of Heavenly Lightning descended.


    This bolt of Heavenly Lightning was even stronger as it struck the vast and dark Misty Rain Array. It caused the Misty Rain Array to enter upheavals, but still managed to withstood the attack. Even so, Qin Yun did not ignite his Essence Soul.


    "This ninth bolt of Heavenly Lightning is about the strength of Hou Yi''s ninth arrow. It''s at the Heavenly Dao realm, and close to the limits of what I can bear. If there''s more powerful Heavenly Lightning, I''ll have to burn my Essence Soul," Qin Yun thought. However, the tribulation cloud in the sky had come to a pause without delivering any more Heavenly Lightning.


    This scene shocked all the mighty figures who were watching.


    The ninth Heavenly Lightning was the end?


    "Is that the end? I just missed surviving the Itinerant Immortal tribulations by that much?" Bai Ze felt puzzled before immediately realizing something was amiss. "The tribulation cloud hasn''t dissipated. It''s not blasting Heavenly Lightning or dissipating. It seems to be preparing something?"


    "This¡­ Itinerant Immortal tribulations aren''t limited to the three tribulations of Wind, Fire, Lightning? There are still other tribulations?" The other mighty figures were puzzled as well.


    About half a minute after the ninth Heavenly Lightning ended, the dark tribulation cloud continued stirring without delivering any attacks.


    "What''s happening? Yiyi, Huan''er, what do you think is happening?" Yi Xiao was already burning with anxiety from watching this scene. Now that the ninth Heavenly Lightning was over, the stirring of the tribulation cloud without delivering any new tribulations left her extremely uneasy.


    "Mom," Qin Yiyi hurriedly consoled her. "Didn''t Dad say that this might very well be the final tribulation for Itinerant Immortals? Since it''s the final tribulation¡­ having an additional tribulation beyond Wind, Fire, and Lightning would be unsurprising. Besides, Dad looks relaxed. The Wind, Fire, Lightning tribulations from before did not pose any threat to him. I''m sure Dad will be able to transcend any new tribulation."


    Yi Xiao nodded as she watched anxiously. "He will definitely transcend it. Definitely."


    ¡­


    "There''s a new tribulation?" Qin Yun watched the tribulation cloud stir and understood that it was preparing to deliver a new blow. He became additionally careful.


    The tribulation cloud was indeed brewing, and after a long while, sounds faintly emitted from within. It sounded like the howl of the winds, roaring of flames, and the thunderous boom of lightning.

 719 Tribulation 2 Final Chapter of Volume

    The tribulation cloud high in the sky finally blasted down a bolt of intermixed Wind, Fire, and Lightning after a long moment of stirring!


    The Wind fanned the Fire, and the Fire gave rise to Lightning, and the Lightning complemented the Fire¡­


    As the three powers intertwined, their strength rose again.


    "I have to ignite my Essence Soul." With a thought, Qin Yun burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers as the might of his Misty Rain Array increased exponentially. Regardless of how the Wind, Fire, Lightning struck, the Misty Rain Array remained as placid as a deep ocean, withstanding every attack without causing huge waves. The Wind, Fire, and Lightning''s attacks lasted only a few seconds before coming to a stop.


    "It''s just fifty percent stronger than the ninth Lightning bolt." Although Qin Yun burned his Essence Soul out of caution, the tribulation was only at the might of Hou Yi''s third arrow if he shot his Essence Soul-burning nine arrows. It was still something he could manage quite easily. Qin Yun looked up at the tribulation cloud. "However, the tribulation cloud hasn''t dispersed."


    "Boom!!!"


    The tribulation cloud suddenly collapsed and shrank, contracting to a beam of ''light'' in extreme fashion.


    This beam descended immediately.


    Shoo!


    With a flash, the beam of light tore through the Misty Rain Array! Even though Qin Yun was powering his Misty Rain Array via his burning Essence Soul, it did not pose as an obstacle at all. It was as though the beam of light was intangible.


    "Oh no."


    Qin Yun knew that things had gone awry. For the tribulation cloud to collapse into a beam of light, it was likely the final strike of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations. However, his Misty Rain Array had failed to be of any use.


    As this thought flashed through his mind, the beam of light struck Qin Yun.


    "Boom!"


    What sounded like wind howls, the roaring of flames, and thundering lightning boomed from Qin Yun''s body, but no attack could be seen.


    It was a formless attack.


    Under this formless attack, Qin Yun''s Itinerant Immortal body collapsed immediately, shattering into pieces and vanishing. Only the Qingping Sword and his storage items were left floating in the air.


    This scene shocked all the spectating experts in the Three Realms. Sword Immortal Qin had managed to withstand the previous tribulations easily, but when the tribulation cloud collapsed into a beam of light, it ignored all defenses and struck Qin Yun instantly. It dissipated Qin Yun completely.


    "Dad!" Qin Yiyi''s and Meng Huan''s expressions changed drastically.


    Yi Xiao''s face turned pale and colorless. "No, impossible!"


    As Qin Yun''s wife, Yi Xiao instantly sensed Qin Yun''s karmic connection with her vanish. She could not sense it at all, forcing her to realize that Brother Yun might really be dead! However, this was an unacceptable outcome.


    "Yun''er!" Qin Liehu and his wife were taken aback.


    Qin Yuluo, Qing Shuang, Tian Huang, and Bian Hanyu all looked in disbelief at this scene.


    "Brother Qin Yun," Ninth Hong, Eighth Zhu, Ancestral Master Zhang, and Immortal Sa Xu all watched in a daze.


    ¡­


    There were just too many people watching Qin Yun''s transcending of the tribulations. For instance, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage was paying keen attention to it.


    A mighty figure had specially conjured a water mirror that floated in midair.


    Many Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage experts watched Qin Yun''s tribulation via the mirror, and when they saw Qin Yun dissipate due to the beam of light, all of them gasped.


    "Sword Immortal Qin actually failed?"


    "This Itinerant Immortal path is really a dead end."


    All of them sighed.


    Yu Gufeng, who had joined the Grand Supreme lineage for decades, looked up. Qin Yun had once wanted to recruit him as a disciple, but he ultimately chose the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage.


    "Sword Immortal Qin really failed transcending his tribulations." Yu Gufeng shook his head slightly when he saw that. However, he felt a sense of joy, thankful that he had chosen the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage.


    ¡­


    "Haha, he''s dead. He''s dead! What a nice death." When Fiend Ancestor remotely saw Qin Yun''s body dissipate completely from the strike, he could not help but be overjoyed. But moments later, his expression changed. "That''s not right. Why is his karmic connection still around?"


    "My disciple''s karmic connection still exists." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor stared intently at the tribulation spot. "Although my disciple''s karmic connection turned very vague for an instant, to the point of even me finding it faint, his karmic connection still exists! He isn''t dead!"


    At their realm, those that could still sense Qin Yun''s existence were limited to the few Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    "If the karmic connection is so blurred, perhaps only the few of us can sense it." Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor watched in puzzlement. "What is Qin Yun''s condition actually?"


    "The final tribulation cloud strike is very mysterious," said Goddess N¨¹wa. "Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array is already sufficiently powerful. When he casts it with a Connate Merit Cardinal treasure, even we would have difficulty killing him. That final strike¡­ actually ignored all obstacles and went straight for Qin Yun''s Essence Soul Itinerant Immortal body?"


    ******


    The tribulation cloud''s collapse to form that final strike was not anything the Misty Rain Array could withstand. Qin Yun knew that something had gone awry, but he had no other solution.


    But after the beam of light flew into his body¡ª


    Boom!


    Qin Yun felt his consciousness turn blank!


    Excruciating pain enveloped his Essence Soul as if thousands of blades were slicing across his Essence Soul, instantly splitting it into thousands of pieces in a thorough fashion.


    There was also an extremely scorching flame burning at his Essence Soul fragments, completely destroying them.


    There was also the terrifying lightning that blasted each and every piece of his Essence Soul.


    At that instant, there was no room for thought.


    Only pain!


    It was an unprecedented pain after all his years of cultivation. It was a pain that made him desire death!


    "Just die. You will be free from this infinite pain if you die." This thought surfaced in his mind.


    "No!"


    A thought immediately surfaced. "Why would I want to die? Who am I? What am I doing? I¡­ I am Qin Yun! I''m Qin Yun! I''m transcending the tribulations!"


    Having acknowledged his own existence, a strong desire spread through every Essence Soul fragment. Although each of them had been burned and blasted to extremely minute pieces, all of them lit up.


    Regardless of the fire and lightning assault, once the Essence Soul fragments had a thought, they were filled with tenacity. Furthermore, the Soul Heart Fruit''s powers were spreading through the Essence Soul and nourishing the fragments.


    "Hold on. Hold on. Hold on."


    Qin Yun could sense that his Essence Soul had been split into countless fragments. Each Essence Soul fragment was suffering the mysterious assaults of fire and lightning. Under this barrage of attacks, his Essence Soul fragments were also gradually changing. He then vaguely came to the understanding¡­ that this was the real Itinerant Immortal tribulation! It was a metamorphic tribulation, akin to the tempering of scrap iron into fortified steel. As these Essence Soul fragments suffered the excruciating pain, his soul also began undergoing the change from "iron" to "steel."


    This process was the most terrifying tribulation.


    If he survived it, he would truly escape his fate as an Itinerant Immortal and obtain eternal life.


    If he failed, the countless pieces of Essence Soul fragments would be destroyed, and death would follow.


    "Hold on." The countless Essence Soul fragments withstood the infinite pain as Qin Yun only had one thought¡ª"Hold on."


    Slowly¡­


    As the Essence Soul fragments transformed, the pain suddenly subsided after an unknown period of time. It gave Qin Yun relief as his thoughts turned clearer and he could consider even more.


    "I''ve passed the hardest stage. This feeling is just fantastic." As the pain rapidly waned, Qin Yun felt that each Essence Soul fragment was overcome with an emerging joy, as though they were each welcoming new life.


    ¡­


    "Is Brother Qin Yun really dead?" Hou Yi watched from afar in disbelief.


    By his side, Kong Xuan said with a sigh, "I can''t even sense his karma, so it means he''s really dead. That final strike of the tribulation cloud was just too odd. Brother Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array failed to put up any resistance. Besides, Brother Qin Yun has an Itinerant Immortal body. It''s weak, so it dissipated upon impact."


    "Even Sword Immortal Qin can''t transcend the Itinerant Immortal tribulations?" Ancestral Dragon sighed.


    Qin Yun''s good friends were sighing.


    As for his family, they were disconsolate and in despair. Although they were mentally prepared before the tribulation, and Qin Yun had made many arrangements for the Qin family, to see Qin Yun''s body ultimately blasted into nothingness left them in immense misery.


    "That is?" Yi Xiao, whose eyes had been staring blankly at the spot where Qin Yun once was, suddenly saw countless lights appearing.


    "What''s that?"


    All the mighty figures also noticed it.


    Lights lit up in the void as they brightened in intensity and enlarged in size. Each point of light was drawing on power to gradually turn crystalline, like they were precious gems.


    Countless crystalline gems floated in midair.


    "There are 129,600 gems," Kong Xuan muttered as he observed. "The number corresponding to one Yuan How can this be a coincidence?"


    The countless gloating gems finally transformed and each of them took the form of Qin Yun. Each of them were the size of a finger.


    The 129,600 Qin Yuns looked at each other and smiled.


    "A body can be split into thousands, but the Essence Soul is eternal.


    "Fuse!"


    The countless Qin Yuns began fusing together, taking on Qin Yun''s original form. With a wave of his hand, he collected all the Dharma treasures that had dropped on the mountaintop.


    Qin Yun stood there and saw that the tribulation cloud had dissipated. He felt overjoyed as he thought, "This Itinerant Immortal tribulation''s final strike was a test of the Essence Soul. No Dharma treasure can help. When the Essence Soul was split into 129,600 pieces, it reached an extremum. Being tempered by the lightning and fire, one needs extremely strong determination and tenacity to survive it.


    "Thankfully. I''m thankful that I had the heaven-defying Soul Heart Fruit which can nourish my Essence Soul''s core. While I was suffering the pain, it was nourishing my Essence Soul. If not, I probably only had a thirty percent chance of surviving it. The Soul Heart Fruit allowed me endure the torment, greatly increasing my chances.


    "My venture into the spatial tide at the risk of my life was of use indeed."


    After having his Essence Soul split into 129,600 pieces, he was still able to be cognizant of himself. That was the first major trial, and enduring through the pain was the second major trial. The Soul Heart Fruit had indeed helped Qin Yun tremendously.


    "Regardless of what I''ve done, how much suffering I''ve been through, or how treacherous the tribulation is¡­ I, Qin Yun, have finally transcended the Itinerant Immortal tribulations completely." Qin Yun rejoiced inwardly.


    (End of Volume)Related to a cosmic period of time in Daoist cosmology.

 720 Art of Avatars

    As Qin Yun was reeling in delight, he heard a voice sound in his head. "Disciple, is this tribulation the last tribulation for Itinerant Immortals?"


    Although Numinous Treasure was happy watching Qin Yun successfully transcend the tribulations remotely, he was also afraid, afraid that there would be a thirteenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation.


    "Master, this twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation was indeed the last tribulation," replied Qin Yun via voice transmission. "This time, it was an actual test of the Essence Soul, a tribulation that allows for the Essence Soul to metamorphosize. Success leads to an indestructible, immortal Essence Soul."


    "Indestructible Essence Soul? I saw your Essence Soul being split into 129,600 pieces?" Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor asked out of curiosity. After all, Qin Yun was the first Itinerant Immortal to gain eternal life.


    "Yes, Itinerant Immortals cultivate their Essence Souls, and the Essence Soul is different from a physical body." Qin Yun did not conceal anything from his master. "After cultivating to a realm like mine, the Essence Soul can congregate and disperse, splitting into 129,600 avatars."


    "To have so many avatars, haha. When it comes to the number of avatars one possesses, you are no doubt the greatest in the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor with a voice transmission.


    Qin Yun smiled.


    Indeed. Elder Yellowbeard had ten bodies including his main body, but he had 129,600 avatars.


    Although he had many avatars, the total amount of Essence Soul powers was limited.


    "It''s just that the more avatars, the weaker the Essence Soul will be," said Qin Yun.


    "The Heavenly Dao naturally has restrictions. Still, to have so many avatars, it truly can be called indestructible," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor.


    In Green Touring Palace, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor was in an extremely good mood.


    The disciple he was most pleased with had succeeded in transcending the tribulations and had gained powerful new means.


    "Numinous Treasure, is this the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation?" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor asked.


    "It''s indeed the final one." Numinous Treasure smiled.


    "Congratulations," said Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning with a faint smile.


    "Congratulations, Numinous Treasure," Goddess N¨¹wa said as well.


    "For Qin Yun to succeed, with his abhorrence of evil, it''s truly a good thing for the Three Realms," said Buddhist Ancestor Gautama with a chuckle.


    In the past, there was strife between them. The past war between the Buddhists and Daoists, and the war among the three Daoist lineages were over. Now, their relationships were getting better.


    This was because they knew that in the future, they would be forced to leave the Three Realms! One, they needed to combine forces to kill the Fiend Ancestor, and two, they needed to help each other in venturing through the vast Chaos. They naturally needed to be united.


    Even more than that, they wished for the Three Realms to be peaceful. However, there were Chaos Godfiends who wished for chaos in the Three Realms, to turn it into a huge hunting ground where they could freely hunt and slaughter. This faction was quite a formidable one, too. However, with the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor in the Three Realms, all of them lurked in the background. This included God King Zhurong who remained in hiding after he escaped his imprisonment. In the future, he was bound to appear again.


    Qin Yun clearly would stand opposite Zhurong and the other Chaos Godfiends.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun took a step and returned to Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Dad!"


    "Master."


    A large group of people came to welcome him¡ªQin Yiyi, Meng Huan, Qin Yuluo, Bian Hanyu were all thrilled. They had previously imagined their sky to have fallen, but now, the ''sky'' remained.


    Qin Yun looked at them with a smile as he looked towards his wife, Yi Xiao.


    "Brother Yun." Yi Xiao hugged Qin Yun and whispered, "I was really, really worried for you just now¡­"


    "There''s no need to worry. I''ll be by your side from now on, so much that you''ll find me a bother! It''s because I am now immortal," said Qin Yun with a voice transmission.


    Yi Xiao smiled sweetly.


    Qin Yun felt a burden lift off his chest as he felt overjoyed. Although he had made arrangements for his wife and children, as well as the whole Qin family, it was better that he could live on. With him around, no one would dare bare their fangs at Mt. Lightning Roar.


    "Congratulations!"


    "Congratulations, Senior Brother Qin."


    Yellow-robed Supremacy, Immortal Sa Xu, Ancestral Master Zhang, Ninth Hong, and Eighth Zhu all came over, congratulating him.


    "Haha." Qin Yun laughed as he saw them. "Brother Sa Xu, Old Zhang, Yellow-robed, and Ninth Hong, Eighth Zhu. Long time no see. Today, I succeeded in transcending the tribulations and have gained eternal life. It''s a joyous occasion for me. Today, my Mt. Lightning Roar will have a feast and I''m inviting all of you. You must attend."


    "Brother Qin Yun, how can we not attend the feast to celebrate your gaining of eternal life?" Kong Xuan chuckled as he walked over.


    "Congratulations Brother Qin Yun." Hou Yi cupped his hands.


    Ancestral Dragon, Goumang, Suirenshi, Fuxishi, Shennongshi, and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain all walked over with smiles. Qin Yun was also a human mighty figure, and the supporting pillar of Green Touring Palace. His attainment of eternal life left many experts rejoicing.


    "Don''t leave today. Accompany me in having drinks at my Mt. Lightning Roar," said Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "Yiyi, quickly arrange for the banquet," instructed Yi Xiao.


    "Yes, Mother." Qin Yiyi immediately flew off to arrange for the banquet in delight.


    ******


    The Grand Supreme sword immortals were watching remotely through a water mirror.


    They originally believed that Sword Immortal Qin was dead, but they suddenly saw the points of light turn brighter, eventually turning into gems. The 129,600 gems each turned into miniature Qin Yuns¡­ and eventually fused as one. Later, Qin Yun even began conversing with Hou Yi, Ancestral Dragon, and company¡­


    This left the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage astounded. Without a doubt, Sword Immortal Qin was still alive!


    "Sword Immortal Qin is actually alive?"


    "This is the Itinerant Immortal tribulation? Gaining life through death?"


    "I wonder if Sword Immortal Qin will still face a thirteenth Itinerant Immortal tribulation."


    The Grand Supreme sword immortals discussed.


    "According to the news coming from Mt. Lightning Roar, Sword Immortal Qin has said that he has gained eternal life and will be holding a feast for his guests," a sword immortal said.


    "He said it personally. It''s definitely true then."


    "To think that Itinerant Immortals can gain eternal life as well. That''s right. The Heavenly Dao will always leave a sliver of hope."


    Just as they were sighing in amazement, Yu Gufeng looked up from a corner at the chatting Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, and Qin Yun in the water mirror.


    "Junior Brother Yu, I heard that Sword Immortal Qin once wanted to take you in as a disciple?" a fellow disciple quipped with a laugh.


    Yu Gufeng nodded slightly. "Yes, Senior Qin did think highly of me before. Now that he has successfully transcended the tribulations, it''s truly a joyous matter."


    ¡­


    The news of Qin Yun''s successful transcending of the tribulations to gain eternal life quickly spread throughout the Three Realms.


    Different experts had different feelings towards it, but all of them knew one point¡­ Sword Immortal Qin was destined to become a steadfast power in the Three Realms! Mt. Lightning Roar would truly become a sacred land in the Three Realms! Previously, people believed that as an Itinerant Immortal, Qin Yun might one day die from his tribulations; therefore, Mt. Lightning Roar always had little influence.


    For example¡­


    No mighty figure came to pledge allegiance to it!


    Most perfected Great Dao experts had mighty figures as their subordinates. Some pledged allegiance while others became disciples. In the past, despite Qin Yun''s formidable prowess, no mighty figure pledged allegiance to Mt. Lightning Roar. It was simply because they were afraid that once Qin Yun died, they would end up being pursued by the fiends'' revenge. How miserable that would be.


    Now that Qin Yun had gained eternal life, everything was different.


    ¡­


    "Why is this happening?"


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body looked in disbelief at the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar. He watched as Qin Yun and Hou Yi exchanged drinks at the banquet.


    Even some time after Qin Yun transcended the tribulations, the Fiend Ancestor was still in disbelief.


    "I thought he was dead, but he actually succeeded and gained eternal life?


    "Now, my plans really need changing.


    "With him alive, when it comes to mighty figures, the Daoists and Buddhists will have a sharp increase in strength. Those ancient existences likely won''t help me easily. Hou Yi isn''t likely to involve himself, right? If he joins forces with Qin Yun, there''s almost no one in a Great World that can fight them." Fiend Ancestor was frustrated. "So be it. At most, I''ll give up on contending for the Great Worlds.


    "After all, most of life in the Three Realms are in the Small Worlds."


    Fiend Ancestor narrowed his eyes. "Qin Yun, I''m indeed impressed with you. In such a despairing situation, you still managed to transcend the tribulations to gain eternal life. Impressive. But ultimately, you are a mighty figure. You won''t be able to enter a Small World or stop me."

 721 Four Word Sword Ar

    Since he succeeded in transcending the tribulations, Qin Yun naturally gave Hou Yi one Soul Heart Fruit and received the spatial shields in return.


    Hou Yi was very willing to do this exchange; after all, back in the spatial tide, Qin Yun had only gathered other-universe corpses in the beginning, resulting in Hou Yi receiving a large number of treasures. The number of Connate Cardinal treasures he had¡­ made him probably number one under the Heavenly Dao realm. He really wasn''t missing out by giving up the spatial shields. Instead, he yearned more for Soul Heart Fruits.


    In a Small World.


    There was a boat with black awnings proceeding down a river. Qin Yun and Yi Xiao were dining on it.


    "My wife, according to your request, I have visited countless Small Worlds with you," said Qin Yun with an exasperated smile. "But I can''t enter a Small World with my real body; only an embodiment can do so. This embodiment of mine is really weak. It can''t even defeat ordinary Essence Soul realm figures. If we suffer any bullying, I''ll be relying on you, my wife, to help."


    "Don''t worry. I will protect you. I''ll protect the number one sword immortal in the Three Realms. That actually feels quite nice." Yi Xiao took a sip of her alcohol, feeling rather happy. She had the strength of a half-step mighty figure. If she had Connate Numinous treasures, she could even fight a mighty figure. She was naturally overpowered in a Small World. Since Qin Yun had gained eternal life from his transcending of the tribulations, he also agreed to accompany his wife on a voyage of the Three Realms.


    The most number of places to visit in the Three Realms were definitely the Small Worlds.


    Therefore, he accompanied his wife and began visiting the countless Small Worlds. If they took their time, perhaps even ten million years was insufficient to see them all.


    "However, you don''t have to worry about this Small World. This Small World''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are sparse. Cultivating to the Connate False Core is probably the maximum one can go," said Yi Xiao.


    "The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are very sparse. If it drops further, it would be impossible to cultivate." Qin Yun nodded.


    And at that moment¡ª


    Above the river of Qin Yun''s boat was a steep cliff. On this hanging cliff, there was a man speaking in full emotion, "Master, Senior Brother, it was all my fault. I have nothing to say." With that said, he leaped down.


    "Third Junior Brother."


    "Third Senior Brother."


    "Third Senior Brother."


    "Yanzhou!"


    There was a flurry of exclamations.


    His plummet down the cliff sounded as he dropped towards the lingering clouds beneath.


    However, his plummet resulted in an fated encounter with immortality.


    In the sailing boat beneath the cliff, Qin Yun and Yi Xiao looked up and saw a white-dressed youth falling.


    "It''s a mortal," said Yi Xiao as she looked up. "To plummet from such a tall cliff, even if there''s water beneath him, he will still die."


    Qin Yun nodded with a smile. "But unfortunately, if we allow the boat to continue sailing forward, he will crash into our boat."


    With that said, Qin Yun began inferring with his fingers.


    "He really is an unlucky little guy," said Qin Yun with a smile. "But I''m quite impressed with him; at least, he abhors evil."


    With a thought, he had learned the details of the plummeting youth''s entire life. He knew why he was committing suicide by jumping off a cliff.


    "Whoosh."


    With a wave of his hand, a force held up the plummeting white-dressed youth, causing his descent to immediately slow down. After which, he landed on the deck of the boat.


    The mighty Sword Immortal Qin did have his embodiment severely suppressed in a Small World, but his realm remained extremely high. He was able to produce strength at the Connate Golden Core, so saving the youth was not a problem.


    "Oh?" Gong Yanzhou looked at his surroundings in a daze and then the deck beneath his feet.


    "I plummeted from such a high cliff but ended up gently landing on this boat?" Gong Yanzhou saw the immortal-like couple drinking in the boat''s cabin and knew that he had met someone important.


    "Seniors, thank you for saving my life," said Gong Yanzhou respectfully. "However, I am too ashamed to face my masters and fellow disciples, much less my wife. I can only exonerate myself with death."


    "As an Iron Sword Gate''s disciple, you ended up marrying a disciple of your sect''s archenemy, the Centaurea Gate¡­ You didn''t wish to betray your sect, nor did you want to kill your wife. As such, you chose to commit suicide?" seated in the cabin, Qin Yun said with a smile. "Dying this way sure is a little aggrieved."


    Gong Yanzhou was alarmed. "How do you know of this?" This was a secret, a secret that he had only learned in the past few days.


    Qin Yun laughed. "There are few things in this world that can hide from me."


    This world was filled with so-called martial arts experts. Cultivating to the Connate False Core realm was the limit! This was due to the limits imposed by the Small World''s Heavenly Dao. As for shattering the void to ascend? That was a remote legend. In this world, as long as one reached the Connate False Core realm and was capable of producing Connate Golden Core strength¡­ one could shatter the void and ascend. With the help of the Small World''s Heavenly Dao, they could head to a Great World.


    However, reaching the Connate realm was very difficult.


    To be able to have strength at the Connate Golden Core realm with a Connate False Core body was already the stuff of legend.


    "It appears I''m quite a joke," said Gong Yanzhou in a self-deprecating manner.


    "You really are inferior to your wife," said Qin Yun. "Your wife knew you were from the Iron Sword Gate, but she still married you. She even tried her best to become sect master of Centaurea Gate, so as to alleviate the hatred between the two sects. Yet, you seek death the moment you learned of the truth?"


    Gong Yanzhou shook his head and said, "My Iron Sword Gate and Centaurea Gate have a deep-seated hatred for each other. When I was still an orphan, my master and his wife took me in. My master''s wife died to the Centaurea Gate. Generation after generation, our grudge remains. How am I to face my fellow disciples after marrying a Centaurea Gate disciple? How am I to face my master?"


    "You silly kid," said Qin Yun. "You can just seek revenge on the person who killed your master''s wife. Your hatred should be directed against the perpetrator, and not the others of the Centaurea Gate. Must the grudge of the past implicate the juniors of the future?


    "In this world, nations have fought and killed for centuries. Many grudges have been forgotten. But after the nations were unified, isn''t everyone still living harmoniously as one?" said Qin Yun with a smile. "A grudge can be resolved. There is no need to implicate too many innocent people while seeking revenge.


    "It is fated that we ended up meeting today, so I''ll give you a few words."


    Qin Yun casually wrote in the air.


    Words began glowing in midair as they were filled with the infinite charms of the Sword Dao.


    They were four simple words¡ª"Human Effort Achieves Everything."


    Gong Yanzhou turned dumbfounded when he saw that. Each stroke contained unfathomable Sword Dao charms. Gong Yanzhou only felt that his Iron Sword Gate''s best manuals could not even be compared to an iota of the four words. He was fully immersed in it and forgot everything. From time to time, he would move his limbs in rejoice, while at times, use his fingers to draw out the sword arts.


    He was awoken by his hunger, for two days had passed. He had been by a boulder on the bank of the river for two days.


    "Seniors." Only then did Gong Yanzhou react, but Qin Yun and Yi Xiao''s boat had been gone for two days.


    "Thank you for imparting these sword arts to me, Senior."


    Gong Yanzhou was filled with gratitude.


    The opportunity he encountered when plummeting down the cliff made Gong Yanzhou figure out a Four Word Sword Art in just two days. His strength increased exponentially to become the strongest in the sect. In the coming days, his touring of the world and studying of the charms in the four words given to him by Qin Yun perfected the Four Word Sword Art even more. This sword art also gained a higher standing in the world. It also became the best of the three arts that could shatter the void. Of course, that was all in the epilogue.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun''s embodiment accompanied his wife in touring the various Small Worlds, while his real body remained in the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar as he meditated on sword arts.


    Before, he had focused on defensive arts due to his tribulations.


    But as a sword immortal¡­ how could he be lacking in offensive means? Now that he had succeeded in transcending the tribulations, he naturally focused on offensive means. The four words he gave to Gong Yanzhou¡ª"Human Effort Achieves Everything"¡ªcontained many of the sword art charms Qin Yun had when it came to offensive means. Even just a tiny bit of it was amazing.


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "Zhurong, you wish to go back on your word?" Ancestral Fiend''s destruction body wore a cold expression as he glared at Zhurong''s embodiment that had appeared before him.


    "I''m not going back on my word. I previously said that if Qin Yun dies from his tribulation, the Daoist-Fiend war can start again! I, Daoist Lu Ya, and a few old friends would jointly attempt to kill Hou Yi," said God King Zhurong with a shake of his head. "Now that Qin Yun is alive and his defensive means are number one in the Three Realms, plus with his relationship with Hou Yi, not only will we not be capable of killing Hou Yi if they join forces, we might even be sending ourselves to our deaths."


    Although Hou Yi was powerful and could burn his Essence Soul to shoot nine successive arrows, he had to accumulate his strength by slowly shooting the arrows one by one.


    It was naturally no problem to kill Hou Yi in the first one or two arrows.


    Zhurong and company originally had a plan and he was rather confident. But with the addition of Qin Yun? His allies from before all shrank back.


    "Ancestral Fiend, Qin Yun has successfully transcended the tribulations. He''s still alive, so there''s no way I can help you either," Zhurong''s embodiment said before dissipating.


    The Ancestral Fiend watched this scene coldly.


    "I knew it. All of them are afraid of death. They will only take action if there''s a chance. But once they discover danger, they immediately shrink back." Fiend Ancestor shook his head and said, "The Daoists and Buddhists previously only had Amita as a half-step Heavenly Dao realm in the past. Boxun is enough to hold him back. Now, with the addition of Qin Yun, this will truly add to my troubles.


    "Forget it. I had planned on giving up the Great Worlds anyway. Since Zhurong and company have shrank back, I''ll give them up completely.


    "There''s no need for any delay.


    "Let the Daoist-Fiend war begin." Fiend Ancestor''s eyes were filled with endless frenzy. It was more crazy than the previous time. That''s because the goal of this Daoist-Fiend war was for him to gain a chance of survival.

 722 War Erupts

    Qin Yun led a very carefree life.


    After all, he had gained eternal life and no longer had the pressing problem of death. He could tour the Small Worlds in the Three Realms without any worries.


    It had been 116 years since Qin Yun successfully transcended the tribulations. In this past century or so, Qin Yun and his wife toured hundreds of Small Worlds, but of course, they were still far from visiting all the Small Worlds in the Three Realms.


    "Brother Yun, at the speed we are touring the Small Worlds, we will probably not even finish touring all the Small Worlds in more than a hundred million years." Yi Xiao and Qin Yun ate by the streets with two tiny bowls of snacks.


    "Each Small World has its unique traits. It''s not worth it if we rush. The speed at which we are going isn''t considered slow," Qin Yun said with a smile. "Why, do you wish for it to be faster?"


    "No, no, no. I''m in no way in a hurry." Yi Xiao giggled.


    Just as they were conversing¡ª


    A calamity that swept through the Three Realms suddenly began!


    It came without any signs. Even for someone of Qin Yun''s strength, he did not notice it in any way. After all, these plans had been schemed within the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were unable to spy upon these plans! Furthermore, the Fiend Ancestor personally hid these plans from the heavenly secrets.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    All the dominions in the Three Realms had space warp across the infinite cosmos. Squadrons of fiendish cultivators were sent into different parts of space.


    "Oh?"


    These fiendish cultivator squadrons were formed by an early-stage Skyfiend and five Fiendcelestials. They would be transported to the space around a planet through the distortion of space.


    "It''s this Small World. Let''s enter," bellowed the leading Skyfiend.


    "Let''s go!" The five Fiendcelestials were also burning with anxiety.


    This squadron of fiendish cultivators flew into the Small World.


    Nearest to them in another area was a squadron formed of three Skyfiends.


    "We''ve arrived at the Small World."


    "We need to conquer this Small World. Quickly enter."


    The three Skyfiends rapidly charged into the Small World.


    ¡­


    This large-scale transference required the Fiend Ancestor''s three avatars to act at the same time. Each of his avatars were teleporting hundreds of squadrons simultaneously! With all three working together in unison at full strength, he could teleport thousands of squadrons at the same time.


    There were also his Ancestral Fiend subordinates who were doing their best. These Ancestral Fiends also mass teleported the squadrons, including Patriarch Blood Sea who had split up into numerous Blood Sea avatars. As for King of Myriad Fiends Boxun, his true body and six avatars were doing their best. All of them employed whatever means they had. Together, they could teleport thousands, if not tens of thousands of squadrons.


    These were fiend cultivator squadrons.


    The strongest were at the ninth firmament Skyfiend realm! There were even a small number with strength at the half-step Ancestral Fiend realm, or even those that matched the Ancestral Fiend realm.


    The weakest were only at the first firmament Fiendcelestial realm! There were some Small Worlds which had sparse Heaven and Earth spiritual energies, making the cultivation limit the Connate realm. For example, Meng Huan''s homeworld from when Qin Yun dreamed a hundred years; therefore, these Small Worlds simply needed a few weak Fiendcelestials to conquer them.


    There were Skyfiends to Fiendcelestials¡­ making the number of squadrons numerous.


    In order to gain a chance of survival, the Fiend Ancestor had even lowered himself into involving all three of his avatars in the operation. With sufficient preparations, this large scale transferences happened extremely quickly.


    "What are the fiends doing?" The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor instantly sensed it. Many mighty figures sensed it as well.


    After all, the scale of such transferences had targeted the countless Small Worlds in the Three Realms.


    "This is¡­"


    Qin Yun was astounded as the snack he was holding fell to the ground. He could sense countless spatial fluctuations in the Three Realms in that blink of an eye. More than 20 million fiendish cultivator squadrons of varying strengths had entered the different Small Worlds.


    "Brother Yun?" Yi Xiao was still puzzled.


    "Something serious has happened," said Qin Yun seriously.


    ¡­


    In the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun''s actual body which was in seclusive meditation exited seclusion.


    "Another Daoist-Fiend war has started?" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed fiercely. With a series of whooshing sounds, countless beams of light flew out from his body, turning into numerous Qin Yuns.


    There was a huge crowd, a total of 120,000 Qin Yuns appearing above Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Following that, these 120,000 Qin Yuns stepped through the void and departed the Heavenly realm, heading for different areas in space.


    Although at his limit¡­


    Qin Yun could split his Essence Soul into 129,600 avatars, but that would lead to his actual body being too weak! It would cause a fatal weakness. Now, by splitting into 120,000 avatars¡­ his main Essence Soul would still have about ten percent of its strength left. By staying in Mt. Lightning Roar and presiding over the massive array, together with the Misty Rain Array and Soul Heart Fruits, Qin Yun had the confidence that he could face certain dangers.


    "Whoosh."


    One of Qin Yun''s avatars arrived in a particular area of space. A squadron of fiendish cultivators were charging towards the Small World.


    "Obliterate." With a flick of his sleeve, the void shattered into countless particulates as the fiendish squadron fell into despair. "No¡ª"


    All of them were pulverized.


    "Kill!"


    Another avatar rushed to another piece of space. With a wave of his hand, countless Sword Qi whistled towards another squadron of fiendish cultivators, destroying them entirely.


    There were some which were a little too slow.


    "They have flown into the Small Worlds. I was a little too slow." Qin Yun watched one fiendish squadron fly into the confines of the Small World, but he could do nothing about it. He was ultimately one of the strongest existences beneath the Heavenly Dao realm. Even though it was just one of his 120,000 avatars, with extremely weak strength, his realm was still very high. It wasn''t difficult for him to produce strength at the half-step mighty figure level.


    "Obliterate."


    "Kill!"


    "I''m a little too slow for this."


    The 120,000 avatars pursued across different regions.


    As the sequence of events involved him sensing the spatial fluctuations to know the enemies'' destination before he could arrive to kill, this traversal of space required some time too. The enemies were teleported to spots very near to the Small Worlds, and they charged in at the fastest speed possible. Just being slightly slow would prevent him from catching up to them.


    "They are all rather weak squadrons. My 120,000 avatars have already successfully killed more than 30,000 squadrons. But the strongest squadrons are only led by early-stage Skyfiends." Qin Yun frowned. "The Fiend Ancestor is very cunning. Those ninth firmament Skyfiends and most powerful group of Skyfiends¡­ were sent in during the first wave. There was no way to stop them in time."


    ¡­


    The first batch that were teleported had their safety pretty much guaranteed. Qin Yun and company failed to stop them in time.


    From the second batch onwards, only small numbers were intercepted.


    However, against 20,000,000 squadrons in each batch, the mighty figures in the Three Realms were helpless as well. After all, Qin Yun was the only who could send 120,000 avatars in the Three Realms. It was a unique skill he gained after transcending the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation. Therefore, when it came to interception, Qin Yun could be considered number one under the Heavenly Dao realm! Even the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Goddess N¨¹wa took action personally.


    They were extremely powerful and were able to attack different areas at the same time. Their interception was even better than Qin Yun''s.


    "The fiends are really unwilling to give up. Are they planning to stir the flames of war again?" Guan Yin was overlooking the Three Realms as she waved her hands, sending streams of light bearing down which tore through space and attacked different areas.


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    Many fiendish cultivator squadrons didn''t even see an enemy. They were reduced to nothingness by powers that swept through space.


    Such means were also what most mighty figures used to intercept the fiends. They were unable to split into 120,000 avatars like Qin Yun, but they could also do many things at the same time, attacking many different regions simultaneously.


    ******


    "Three Pure Ones, Gautama, and N¨¹wa, how many can you stop?" In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was in a frenzy. He had a massive array formation set up around him. His other male and female bodies were also surrounded by their own array formations.


    With the aid of these array formations, the transference could be done much more easily.


    The three avatars were doing the transference with all their might.


    Transference without set destinations were easier, and it was harder to kill them.


    Moments later¡ª


    Massive numbers of fiendish cultivator squadrons that had been amassed over the past hundred over years were all sent out.


    Qin Yun''s 120,000 avatars were scattered across space in the Three Realms, watching the various Small Worlds.


    "The fiends sent a total of 630 million squadrons. Only 8 million were intercepted. Most of them were intercepted by the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and Goddess N¨¹wa. Although I have many avatars, I only managed to intercept about 300,000 squadrons." Qin Yun wore a heavy expression. "And the small number of squadrons intercepted have little influence over the fiends'' progress."


    Followed by a sigh, all his 120,000 avatars retreated and returned to the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Countless beams of light entered his body as Qin Yun felt his heart heavy. He knew that the countless Small Worlds in the Three Realms would face a huge calamity, and what he could do was very limited.


    "Disciple, quickly come to Green Touring Palace." A voice sounded in his mind.


    "Yes, Master." Qin Yun immediately responded and rushed to Green Touring Palace.

 723 Drawn-out Days

    Green Touring Palace, main hall.


    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor sat cross-legged on a cloud and there were nearly a hundred figures standing in the hall. All of them were mighty figures and standing right in front of them were Qin Yun and Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain.


    "Greetings, Master," all the mighty figures greeted reverently.


    Numinous Treasure looked at the group of disciples before him and sighed. "The Ancestral Fiend has instigated another Daoist-Fiend war. This time, although it doesn''t involve Great Worlds, nor does it directly threaten the lives of mighty figures, this iteration will be far more terrifying than the previous Daoist-Fiend war. It''s a true calamity that will shake the roots of the Three Realms."


    The mighty figures below him were all astounded.


    "Far more terrifying than the previous one?"


    "The ones deployed are some Skyfiends and Fiendcelestials. It doesn''t influence all of us mighty figures. Wouldn''t we still be able to live carefree lives?" Although the disciples appeared to listen reverently, they didn''t actually care about it.


    If they could live carefree lives, why would they care if ants died?


    Numinous Treasure said seriously, "Most of the lives in the Three Realms come from the Small Worlds. These countless Small Worlds¡­ are the foundations of the Three Realms! Now that the Fiend Ancestor has mobilized the forces of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and the ten fiendish dominions and completely infiltrated countless Small Worlds, if we were to sit by idly¡­ With time, more of these Small Worlds will become flourishing hotbeds for the fiends! In the future, most people in the Three Realms would be fiendish cultivators. The entire Three Realms would become a land of sin.


    "Although all of you are mighty figures with eternal life, once the fiends flourish, the number of fiendish mighty figures would increase. Once the Fiendish Heavenly Dao envelops the world, all of your days will turn miserable." Numinous Treasure looked at these disciples.


    He did not discriminate in how he taught, and gave freedom to his disciples. There were also some Chaos Godfiends among his disciples who viewed the weak mortals in the Small Worlds as nothing but ants. Therefore, he needed to first scare them.


    The flourishing of the fiends¡­


    Will lead to tragic days for you too.


    "Master." As the present Eldest Senior Brother, Qin Yun said, "What should we do now?"


    Numinous Treasure said, "Now, the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts are amassing Skyimmortals, Essence Soul Earth Immortals and thinking of sending them towards the Small Worlds in batches. But firstly, this will require time, and¡­ secondly, many Skyimmortals and Essence Soul Earth Immortals lead carefree lives. They likely do not wish to embroil themselves in a life-and-death battle with the Skyfiends and Fiendcelestials. Yet, we cannot force them like the fiends. We can only do our best to guide them and bound them to promises. The number of Skyimmortals and Earth Immortals we can deploy are probably a tiny fraction of what the fiends have sent."


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain added, "The fiendish sects have layers of control and strict rules. Whoever dares violate these rules would live a life worse than death! But us Daoists are a lot less restraining on our disciples. To amass enough Skyimmortals and Earth Immortals as the fiends to risk their lives? That''s indeed difficult."


    "We can only tempt them to do so with Dharmic formulations, divine power mystic arts, and treasures," said Qin Yun with a frown. "Those ordinary Skyimmortals and Earth Immortals also thirst for powerful divine power mystic arts. To get one, they will be willing to risk their lives."


    "At present, the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts have decided on this as well," said Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor. "Slaying Fiendcelestials and Skyfiends and winning back a Small World¡­ The various contributions can be used to exchange for different benefits. But even so, relying on Skyimmortals and Earth Immortals to participate in this program on their own accord would make the numbers pale in comparison to the fiendish cultivators. Therefore, all of you will need to do something as well."


    "Us?" The disciples were puzzled.


    "Our real bodies aren''t able to enter the Small Worlds. How do we do anything?" a disciple could not help but ask.


    Numinous Treasure looked down and said, "The countless Small Worlds in the Three Realms have many Daoists cultivators to begin with. However, they possess crude cultivation Dharmic formulations and lack masters to guide them, making their cultivation an arduous task. If they were to encounter an esteemed master and receive pinnacle Dharmic formulations¡­ I believe they will experience a metamorphic change and experience a great increase in strength. If the cultivators in the Small Worlds become powerful, it will make it difficult for the fiends to occupy them."


    "Masters in a Small World will never be better than mighty figures like you. All of you are esteemed masters!" said Numinous Treasure. "All of you are to descend with embodiments to the numerous Small Worlds where you will select talent and teach them. Increase and strengthen the Daoist cultivators in the countless Small Worlds, and that will automatically hold back the fiend''s invasion. The Buddhists are doing the same as well."


    "We understand." Qin Yun and the other disciples answered reverently.


    "Do it quick." Numinous Treasure waved his hand.


    "Yes."


    All of them responded before taking their leave.


    ¡­


    Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun looked across the vast lands as his gaze even tore through the void to see the countless Small Worlds.


    Blood had already been shed in many Small Worlds.


    The fiends had cruel means, so countless fiendish cultivators were long accustomed to the law of the jungle and the act of killing. That was how they led their lives in the fiendish dominions.


    "Faced with such fervent killing, how many Daoist and Buddhist cultivators, especially those who have gained eternal life, will be willing to risk their lives? Will there even be ten percent?" Qin Yun sighed lightly. "Thankfully, the fiends are ultimately still the minority. The countless Small Worlds are still mainly occupied by the Daoists and Buddhists, and enjoy a deep heritage. As long as the potential of the native cultivators are harnessed, there''s still a chance of defeating the fiends."


    "However, this war is destined to last long." Following that, Qin Yun split his thoughts as he descended upon numerous Small Worlds.


    He began taking in disciples in the various Small Worlds to teach them.


    ******


    There were too many Small Worlds. They were also the foundations of the Three Realms; therefore, the Daoists and Buddhists naturally could not hand them over to the fiends.


    Therefore¡­


    Both sides used all the means they had.


    Seizing by force, betrayals, enticement¡­ They stopped at nothing.


    Even the pinnacle existences in the Small Worlds, those Skyimmortals and Skyfiends that matched mighty figures, were fighting as well. Some of them engaged in truly fervent battles, while others simply put on an act! After all, they had eternal life, and were nearly invincible in the Small Worlds. Why risk their lives for real? Even if they had been ordered by the Fiend Ancestor, they had the courage to resist his orders if they hid in Small Worlds. Of course, to make a show of it, using thirty percent of their strength was sufficient.


    Mighty figure embodiments and even the embodiments of the Dao Ancestors, Fiend Ancestor, and Buddhist Ancestor descended!


    In short, this drawn-out war had all sorts of situations happen.


    There were just too many Small Worlds. Gradually, the war entered a stalemate with both sides becoming exhausted.


    "In a blink of an eye, three thousand years have passed since the beginning of the Daoist-Fiend war."


    In a Small World.


    Qin Yun''s embodiment sat in a restaurant, feeling emotive. "It''s unknown if the Daoists and Buddhists will win or lose¡­


    "After all these years of all-out fighting by a large number of Skyimmortals and Earth Immortals, with many mighty figures imparting their teachings, our Daoists and Buddhists now have the upper hand in the countless Small Worlds," said Qin Yun. "But these Small Worlds were ours to begin with. Now, the fiends have infiltrated deep. Over the three thousand years¡­ there are fiendish sects lurking in the countless Small Worlds. Different Small Worlds can call upon each other. Even if the fiendish cultivators in a Small World are wiped out, they will quickly return."


    "There''s no point talking about three thousand years, even in three hundred thousand years, we will likely not be able to eliminate the fiends in the true sense of the word. Is this counted as a victory or a loss?"


    Qin Yun also felt a little worn out.


    Over the past three thousand years¡­


    His name had resounded through countless Small Worlds.


    It was pretty impressive if other mighty figures could maintain a thousand embodiments in the Small Worlds, but he had 129,600 avatars, and maintained millions of embodiments to descend upon them! Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were slightly inferior in this aspect to him. Clearly, in terms of number of avatars and embodiments¡­ Qin Yun was indeed heaven-defying.


    This also made Qin Yun gain a large number of in-name disciples over the past three thousand years! He left behind the Misty Rain Sword lineage''s Dharmic formulations in many Small Worlds, and the number of cultivators of the Misty Rain Sword in the Three Realms reached a staggering number.


    "I''m preaching the Dao, so are the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor. Same for the Fiend Ancestor, Boxun and the rest." Qin Yun shook his head. "I really have no idea when the end to this Daoist-Fiend war will come."

 724 Misty Rain Sword Sec

    Inside that restaurant, Qin Yun suddenly turned his head upon sensing something.


    Far away beyond the windows.


    A figure was fleeing in desperation as three figures were pursuing her.


    "Beauty, you won''t escape."


    "Surrender without a fuss, and you won''t suffer as much."


    The trio chasing after her emanated dark-red fiendish auras that spread everywhere. It caused the surrounding space to dim a little. Their strength was a lot more terrifying than Gongye Bing, the county governor Qin Yun met in his youth.


    The person fleeing was a female cultivator with fluttering fairy clothes. Her face was pale and there was a look of despair in her eyes. "If I were to fall in the hands of these fiendish cultivators, I''ll really lead a life worse than death."


    "Take this!" One of the three fiendish cultivators threw out a black hoop that streaked out afterimages as it smashed at the female cultivator.


    The female cultivator flicked her sleeves which expanded in size to block off the black hoop. But from that clash, her sleeve exploded, blasting the female cultivator''s fair arms with bloody injuries.


    "Have another taste of my treasure''s prowess!" Another fiendish cultivator spat out six purplish-red centipedes that crawled through the air extremely quickly.


    "If I can''t escape, I''d rather die then fall into their hands." The female cultivator steeled her resolve.


    At that critical moment¡ª


    A flying boat approached from afar. Standing on it was a man in commoner clothes. A bunch of youths were watching nervously on the boat as well.


    The man roared angrily, "Fiendish bastards, meet your death!"


    "Whew!"


    A blinding sword beam shot out from the man''s hand and instantly, there was Sword Flash Dissociation. Thousands of sword flashes howled as they enveloped the three fiendish cultivators.


    "No good." The three fiendish cultivators wore a drastic change in expression upon seeing this.


    "It''s a Sword Lunatic from Misty Rain Sword Sect."


    "We bumped into a Sword Lunatic."


    The three fiendish cultivators joined forces to fully resist the attacks of over a thousand sword flashes and barely managed to withstand the attack momentarily.


    On the distant flying boat, the man sneered when he saw this. "Little Bastards, you do have some means." With that said, the thousand plus sword flashes suddenly fused as one again, forming a terrifying sword beam. To the three fiendish cultivators'' horror, the beam tore through their defenses and penetrated their bodies and destroyed their souls. All three were instantly killed.


    "Phew." Sword flashes carried the remains of these three fiendish cultivators back to the man''s side before he waved his hand to store them away.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Wang, for saving my life. I''m Ethereal Palace''s Luo Qi." The woman was extremely grateful.


    "Haha, Sister Luo Qi, as Daoist disciples, we should help one another," said the man with a laugh. "I''m returning to my sect. You can join me and we''ll take you back to Ethereal Palace along the way."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Wang." The female cultivator was delighted. She was heavily injured, so gaining the help of Senior Brother Wang made it a lot safer for her.


    She immediately flew onto the flying boat which tore through the air and continued proceeding forward.


    "Haha, did you see that, punks?" The man smiled at the bunch of youths on the flying boat. "My Misty Rain Sword Sect''s sword cultivators are unparalleled. Killing those fiendish cultivators is as easy as cutting vegetables."


    The eyes of the youths lit up.


    The female cultivator Luo Qi nodded and said with a smile, "Young lads, sword cultivators are well known to be good at combat. All of them are able to fight beyond their level! Senior Brother Wang is at the Connate Golden Core, but he is able to fight Fiendcelestials. It is your good luck that you are becoming disciples of the Misty Rain Sword Sect."


    "They are good seedlings selected from the surrounding eighteen counties. There''s just twenty, but to become a sword immortal? Hehe, cultivating to become a sword immortal is nearly the most difficult among all the Daoist practices," the man said as he looked at the bunch of youths. "It''s nothing at all if you can''t reach the Connate realm. If you were able to cultivate to the Connate Golden Core realm like me, that would be something. To truly reign supreme in the world, you need to reach the Essence Soul Earth Immortal realm."


    "Got it." The youths nodded in unison. They had long wanted to become Golden Cores to reign supreme over the world and spend days slaying fiendish demons.


    "Uncle Wang, you were talking about our Misty Rain Sword Sect''s Ancestral Master, Sword Immortal Qin, that he killed many fiendish mighty figures. You aren''t done with the story yet," a youth said.


    The man smiled and said, "Our Misty Rain Sword Sect''s Ancestral Master has killed many fiendish mighty figures. As for Skyfiends, Ancestral Master has killed an innumerable number. He forced the fiends to stoop to infiltrating our Small Worlds, and not the Great Worlds! Hence, you must remember, lads, our Misty Rain Sword Sect''s cultivation is infinitely promising."


    "The fiends only dare to enter the Small Worlds and not the Great Worlds because of our Ancestral Master, Sword Immortal Qin?" These youths were thrilled when they heard that.


    By the side, Luo Qi felt envious listening to it as well.


    As mighty figures had descended with embodiments to preach the Dao everywhere, many sects in the Small Worlds had the shadows of mighty figures behind them.


    Ethereal Palace was also established by the embodiment of an ordinary mighty figure. It also had rather formidable means.


    But compared to the Misty Rain Sword Sect?


    The Misty Rain Sword Sect was created by Qin Yun. In order to deal with the fiends, he figured out many potent sword arts that could be cast at low levels. Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples horrified fiendish cultivators to the point of them calling them Sword Lunatics. They were enemies the fiendish cultivators feared the most! Every sword cultivator grew and rose up through combat. Although the number of disciples was lacking, their combat strength was best among all the sects in the Small Worlds.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun watched this scene from the restaurant. Over the past three thousand years, millions of his embodiments had visited every Small World in the Three Realms. Many Small Worlds had a Misty Rain Sword Sect established.


    Although cultivation in the Misty Rain Sword Sect was difficult, with few disciples in each world, combining the countless Small Worlds together¡­ made for quite a massive number! The Misty Rain Sword Sect had already become an important sect in the Three Realms. Although the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage had begun relaxing its requirements for disciples, it was not as widespread as Qin Yun''s. Its influence was a lot lower.


    When countless cultivators in the Three Realms mention Sword Lunatics, they were typically referring to the Misty Rain Sword Sect.


    "Oh? Hanyu has figured out a Great Dao?" Qin Yun revealed a look of pleasant surprise.


    ******


    Mt. Lightning Roar was presently a sacred land of the countless disciples of the Three Realms'' Misty Rain Sword Sect.


    "Master, I have already figured out a Great Dao, the Dao of Heavenly Secrets," said Bian Hanyu reverently.


    "Heavenly Secrets? An ordinary Great Dao?" Qin Yun was somewhat delighted, but also disappointed.


    He was delighted because it was really not easy for his disciple to become a Golden Immortal.


    He felt disappointment because she did not figure out a pinnacle Great Dao!


    At present, the Three Realms was in desperate need of a Skyimmortal who had figured out a pinnacle Great Dao. This was because only those who weren''t mighty figures could enter Small Worlds with their real bodies! Skyimmortals who figured out a pinnacle Great Dao¡­ would be of great use in the Daoist-Fiend war. Especially when Bian Hanyu was a sword cultivator! Qin Yun could spare no expense to help Bian Hanyu cultivate an extremely powerful Intrinsic Flying Sword.


    A Skyimmortal who had figured out a pinnacle Great Dao would play a huge role in the Daoist-Fiend war.


    And such entities could repeat what Qin Yun had previously done and win the war completely.


    But¡­


    How difficult was it to slowly cultivate from a weak state to a pinnacle mighty figure? Across the expanse of history in the Three Realms, how many became pinnacle mighty figures? Many of them were even Chaos Godfiends.


    Even if one relied on cultivation to go from weak to a pinnacle mighty figure, most of them first became ordinary mighty figures and spent immense amounts of time to finally become a pinnacle mighty figure.


    It was extremely rare for one to immediately figure out a pinnacle Great Dao.


    Only a handful like Myriad Treasure, Qin Yun, and Yang Jian had accomplished this.


    "I''m useless," said Bian Hanyu softly.


    "Things cannot be forced when it comes to Dao enlightenment. Hanyu, do the breakthrough now. Break through to become a Golden Immortal," said Qin Yun.


    "If I were to break through, I would not be able to enter the Small Worlds to participate in the war," said Bian Hanyu.


    Qin Yun shook his head. "Skyimmortals and Bodhisattvas with strength that match mighty figures number in the hundreds. The fiends also have over a hundred. It''s only with a Skyimmortal who grasps a pinnacle Great Dao that we can hope to turn the tides of this war. The impact you would bring wouldn''t be huge, but if you were to become a Golden Immortal¡­ it will be of great benefit to the spread of my Misty Rain Sword Sect¡­"


    The Misty Rain Sword Sect was indeed very widespread in the Small Worlds with deep roots.


    But in the Great Worlds and Heavenly realm, it wasn''t as impressive. It was because the Great Worlds and Heavenly realm did not suffer the threat of the fiends. Cultivators would focus more on the final realm one could reach with their corresponding Dharmic formulations. The Misty Rain Sword Sect did not have a single Golden Immortal, so how was it to develop itself in the Great Worlds and Heavenly realm? Although Qin Yun was powerful, he was an Itinerant Immortal. Furthermore, Qin Yun was the only person who succeeded taking this pathway in the Three Realms after all this time.


    "Yes," Bian Hanyu said reverently. "I''ll do the breakthrough now."


    "I''ll watch over you." Qin Yun nodded.


    Qin Yun had repeatedly perfected the Misty Rain Sword Sect''s sword immortal Dharmic formulation. With his level of insight, there was no problems with it. However, without anyone succeeding to date, he naturally lacked total confidence.


    Bian Hanyu sat cross-legged.


    Since she had attained a Great Dao, the breakthrough of her Essence Soul was most simple.


    "Hum!"


    Bian Hanyu started to emit faint light from her body, with each beam of light a result of extremely sharp Sword Qi.


    With the fusion of Dharmic powers and the Great Dao, she began condensing a new Essence Soul.


    "There''s no problem in the formation of her Essence Soul." Qin Yun watched the process of his disciple''s breakthrough and felt anxious. "Soon, soon. It''s done!"


    The breakthrough process was very short.


    However, it left Qin Yun exhilarated and delighted.


    After the successful breakthrough, Bian Hanyu began sucking the surrounding Heaven and Earth spiritual energies madly.


    Qin Yun beamed as he threw an Immortal Pill at his disciple. "Hanyu, take this Immortal Pill."


    "Yes, Master." Bian Hanyu was filled with delight as she consumed the Immortal Pill. Her Dharmic powers had reached a brand new level, but it was just lacking in quantity. With the replenishment of the Immortal Pill, she soon reached her new limits.


    "Master, I found the breakthrough extremely simple. No troubles happened during the process," said Bian Hanyu.


    "Good, good."


    Qin Yun was overjoyed.


    He had always been afraid that an accident might occur. If that were the case, he would truly be letting down countless Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples in the Small Worlds. Although to these cultivators, becoming a Golden Immortal mighty figure was a distant thought and they thought nothing of it when entering the Misty Rain Sword Sect, Qin Yun still cared about the future of his disciples and grand-disciples. Among these countless disciples, there would definitely be disciples of excellent caliber who could figure out a Great Dao.


    If the disciples of his lineage were to figure out a Great Dao but lacked a Golden Immortal Dharmic formulation, he as the Ancestral Master would be truly embarrassed.


    Now that his Dharmic formulation was a success, it meant that the Misty Rain Sword lineage was one that led to the Great Dao. As such, the Misty Rain Sword Sect would truly become one of the major sword cultivator factions in the Three Realms.

 725 New Heavenly Dao Realm Existence

    In the Western Paradise Great World, Amita sat cross-legged under a bodhi tree.


    Time here seemed to had come to a halt as no life came to disturb him. Amita had entered a deeper phase of his cultivation on the day Qin Yun underwent his eleventh Itinerant Immortal tribulation. He isolated himself from the outside world and only the Buddhist Ancestor Gautama could forcefully make contact with him.


    Qin Yun had transcended the twelfth Itinerant Immortal tribulation and gained eternal life.


    The Ancestral Fiend had started the second Daoist-Fiend war¡­


    Yet, Buddhist Ancestor Gautama did not disturb Amita to deliver any of this news. After all, the Daoist-Fiend war involved the fiends invading countless Small Worlds. Even if Amita had come out of seclusion, all he could do was send his embodiments to the Small Worlds. At the present, the Dao Ancestors, Buddhist Ancestor, and many mighty figures were sending their embodiments into the Small Worlds to preach the Dao. Having an additional Amita wouldn''t have made much of a difference.


    "Creak."


    Amita stretched his back as though he had just awoken. He opened his eyes with a smile.


    "The world is like a sea of misery. I have redeemed life in this sea of misery, but only today do I see the actual state of the sea itself." Amita was overjoyed within. In the past, he often felt that the Heavenly Dao was hazy and indistinct. He always felt he was close but vague, as though he was just short of something. After a true epiphany, he suddenly felt like he had seen the light.


    He was no longer stumped by the Heavenly Dao and Myriad Things.


    Everything was clear like palm lines.


    "This seclusion took more than sixty thousand years." Amita cast his gaze towards the Three Realms. "My young friend Qin Yun is still alive. It looks like he succeeded in transcending the tribulations. Oh? Countless Small Worlds in the Three Realms have been infiltrated by the fiends?"


    Amita did a simple inference.


    "This Daoist-Fiend war has already lasted for more than sixty thousand years?" Amita was somewhat astonished. "However, it is restricted only to the Small Worlds. It''s no wonder Gautama didn''t awaken me."


    He stood up and, with a step, crossed through the endless void and arrived at Mt. Numinous in the Heavenly realm.


    ¡­


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Numinous.


    Buddhist Ancestor Gautama was sitting cross-legged on a Merit Gold Lotus when he suddenly sensed something and looked up. He saw Amita cross the void and as he came close, he bowed slightly, "Greetings Buddhist Ancestor."


    "Amita¡­" Gautama was somewhat astonished as well. From the glow Amita emitted, it contained the creation and annihilation of worlds. He immediately asked, "You have already figured out the profoundness of the Myriad Things?"


    "I have finally figured it out through this seclusion," Amita said with a smile. "I plan on making the breakthrough to the Heavenly Dao realm in Mt. Numinous."


    "It''s truly a matter of great joy that you have figured out the profoundness of the Heavenly Dao and Myriad Things." Gautama was delighted as he said with a smile, "As such, we will have one more person to deal with the Fiend Ancestor when the time comes. The Fiend Ancestor will have no chance of escaping."


    Amita smiled.


    "Make the breakthrough here. I''ll watch over you," said Gautama.


    "Thank you, Buddhist Ancestor." Amita sat cross-legged by the side and began his breakthrough. The Western Paradise Great World he previously was from was a Great World which prevented Heavenly Dao realm bodies from descending into it. Therefore, to make a breakthrough, he could only choose the cosmos, the Heavenly realm or beyond the Three Realms! In terms of safety, Mt. Numinous in the Heavenly realm was naturally the safest.


    Gautama watched with a smile. For the Buddhists to have an additional Heavenly Dao realm, it would make their foundations stronger and deeper.


    As Amita broke through, his body began to emit infinite light. Formless might seemed to instantly sweep through the entire Three Realms.


    At that moment¡ª


    All the mighty figures in the Three Realms sensed this invisible, but infinite, brightness through their perception. It was a light that illuminated the Three Realms!


    "Infinite Glow!"


    These mighty figures immediately understood what it was.


    Amita from the Buddhists had taken that step, reaching the supreme spot of this world.


    ******


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    Fiend Ancestor had been in a good mood. Although the fiends had been at the disadvantage over the past sixty thousand years of the Daoist-Fiend war, his goal had long been achieved.


    "In countless Small Worlds, the clash between fiends and the others has resulted in countless cultivators dying. Be it the fiends or the Daoists and Buddhists, many have died. The more dead, the more of their strength returns to the world." Fiend Ancestor was extremely overjoyed. "I can sense the Three Realms becoming more relaxed. I believe the aversion towards me, forcing us Heavenly Dao realm existences from leaving the Three Realms, will only be delayed."


    The greater the burden the Three Realms experienced, the more damage it received and the weaker it became. At a certain point, it would definitely force the few Heavenly Dao realm existences to leave.


    And at present, the burden the Three Realms experienced had been lessened¡­


    "Blood Sea, this is the name list of the recent thousand years?" Fiend Ancestor flipped through the records in a scroll and asked the Patriarch Blood Sea avatar beside him with a smile.


    "Yes," said Patriarch Blood Sea with a nod. "They are fiendish cultivators who have made great contributions."


    "Okay. Reward them as needed. We must not ill treat anyone who has contributed greatly to the war effort." Fiend Ancestor continued looking at the scroll and his eyes lit up. "Ranked first is Fiend Supremacy Blood Lion. He actually managed to sacrifice all the lives in seven Small Worlds?"


    Patriarch Blood Sea nodded and said, "Yes, he is also a cultivator of my sea of blood lineage."


    Sea of blood lineage¡­ Although it was not afraid of sin, to the point of using sin as resources for its cultivation, those with overly weak strength would not dare kill too many mortals. Otherwise, it could turn into Negative Karma Fire that could burn at them. For example, although humans survived on food, how much they ate depended on the size of their stomach. Too much would go beyond sustenance into harmfulness.


    Firmament Blood Lion was a ninth firmament Skyfiend who equaled a mighty figure, a cultivator of the sea of blood lineage. Sacrificing all the lives of seven Small World was nearly the limit he could endure. However, to be able to do so despite obstruction from the Daoists and Buddhists was rather astounding.


    "This Blood Lion from your lineage has contributed merits in the top three over the past sixty thousand years or so," said Fiend Ancestor with a smile. "Very good. Pass my order that he is allowed to choose any two ordinary Connate Numinous treasures."


    "Yes," said Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Blood Sea¡­ I''m also aware of your contributions," said Fiend Ancestor with a smile. "In the future, I''ll still have to leave the Three Realms. When that happens, the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss will be left to you to watch over. You will also be the lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss."


    "Fiend Ancestor, it''s only right that I do my best for this Daoist-Fiend war," added Patriarch Blood Sea. "By the way, after Jade Void Palace''s Perfect Sovereign Erlang, Yang Jian broke through to the perfected Great Dao, he also began sending embodiments into the Small Worlds to preach the Dao."


    "Yang Jian?"


    Fiend Ancestor snorted. "Back then, I nearly obtained his Divine Eye of Destruction, but unfortunately, Qin Yun spoiled my plans! Yang Jian may have broken through to the perfected Great Dao¡­ but it doesn''t matter. Although he is of the Physical Establishing Sage, he has only broken through recently. He''s still far from the Ancestral Dragon. He won''t be able to influence the Daoist-Fiend war."


    "Yes." Patriarch Blood Sea nodded.


    Yang Jian''s breakthrough was something Patriarch Blood Sea still cared about.


    In the future, when the Fiend Ancestor left the Three Realms, he would very likely be the future leader of the fiends. He had nearly succeeded in killing Yang Jian back then. As a perfected Great Dao of the Physical Establishing Sage, Yang Jian had immense combat strength. It was believed that in time to come, he would reach the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Continue the good work. I wish for there to be even more names on the records." Fiend Ancestor waved his hand and threw the scroll back to Patriarch Blood Sea.


    Patriarch Blood Sea caught the scroll and was about to leave.


    But suddenly¡ª


    Their expressions changed as they turned their heads to the Heavenly realm.


    They could sense the light that illuminated the Three Realms in their perception! Although the commotion was not as huge as Qin Yun''s attainment of a Merit Cardinal treasure, this Infinite Glow was far more extraordinary as it blanketed all of the Three Realms.


    "Amita has broken through?" Fiend Ancestor''s expression turned nasty.


    "The Buddhists'' Amita." Patriarch Blood Sea was alarmed as well. "Heavenly Dao realm. The Three Realms has another Heavenly Dao realm existence."


    "Hmph!"


    However, Fiend Ancestor was extremely vexed.


    He originally believed that he would suffer the combined pursuit of the Three Pure Ones, Goddess N¨¹wa, and Gautama when he left the Three Realms, but now, he realized that he would be under siege by six!


    "Oh?"


    The frustrated Fiend Ancestor frowned as he sensed the entire Three Realms.


    At the Heavenly Dao realm, his sense of the Three Realms was extremely sharp. He could clearly sense that with Amita''s breakthrough to the Heavenly Dao realm happened, the entire Three Realms seemed to be stirred as it began to change rapidly.

 726 Meditation

    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    This was Sword Immortal Qin''s cave abode, and also a sacred land in the hearts of Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples.


    Countless Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples yearned for a chance to come to Mt. Lightning Roar and receive Qin Yun''s personal guidance.


    The Daoist-Fiend war had lasted for sixty thousand years, and the Misty Rain Sword Sect had been in existence for about the same amount of time. As the sword sect had penetrated countless Small Worlds, the number of disciples it had was astonishing. Over sixty thousand years¡­ the number of Skyimmortals of the Misty Rain Sword Sect reached over a million! Those that reached the late-stages of the Skyimmortal realm numbered in the hundreds. Many of them had the strength of a half-step mighty figure.


    Among them, there were about ten plus at the pinnacle of the Skyimmortal realm who had strength matching mighty figures.


    Throughout the entire Three Realms, the Misty Rain Sword Sect could be considered to quite a strong line up!


    "They are all talented, but are all short of that final step. To this date, Hanyu is the only one who has become a Golden Immortal of my Misty Rain Sword Sect." After guiding his disciples, he had a casual chat with Yi Xiao while on a stroll.


    Yi Xiao smiled and said, "Brother Yun, at present, be it the Small Worlds or Great Worlds, and even the Heavenly realm, your Misty Rain Sword Sect is a huge sect! When sword immortals are talked about, it''s mostly referring to our Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples. With so many low-level disciples, among the ranks of the mighty figures¡­ our Misty Rain Sword Sect disciples will not account for a small number. These disciples just need time. After all, the sect has only been established for sixty thousand years!"


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    Sword immortals were now the most mainstream cultivation lineage in the Three Realms. They were particularly famous for being adept at combat.


    In terms of combat, sword immortals were number one across all the different lineages.


    Of course, the Physical Establishing Sage lineage and the talisman amulet lineage still produced geniuses as well, but in terms of average standards, sword immortals were indeed the best at combat. Naturally, many cultivators chose to learn it. As for the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage, it was difficult to even be one of them and the cultivation was difficult. Spreading the lineage was naturally difficult. Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Sword lineage had its Dharmic formulations¡ªfrom Essence Soul to Skyimmortal¡ªcontinuously perfected by him after he became a perfected Great Dao existence, making it even easier to cultivate them.


    The difficulty of attaining the basics was much lower than it was in the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage.


    After all, the Grand Supreme sword immortal lineage was not cultivated by the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor himself. He had come to it purely through inference. Even the Essence Soul was in the form of a sword and the cultivation Dharmic formulation was indeed difficult.


    "My Green Touring Palace has nearly a hundred Golden Immortals," said Qin Yun with a smile. "Perhaps in a million years, there will be a few more Golden Immortals from the Misty Rain lineage."


    "That day will definitely come." Yi Xiao was very confident.


    Qin Yun was the Misty Rain Sword Sect''s Ancestral Master and she was his wife, so naturally, she hoped for the sect to flourish.


    "Of course, what I look forward to the most is the day a junior will be able to figure out a pinnacle Great Dao!" Qin Yun said wistfully. "A Skyimmortal sword immortal who grasps a pinnacle Great Dao, along with an extremely powerful Intrinsic Flying Sword, will have a chance to sweep through the countless Small Worlds and end the Daoist-Fiend war."


    "This will depend on chance. The fiends are also hoping to nurture a Skyfiend who can grasp a pinnacle Great Dao," said Yi Xiao.


    "Yea." Qin Yun nodded.


    At his level of existence, all he could do was influence the Daoist-Fiend war.


    As the couple was chatting and strolling, Qin Yun''s expression suddenly changed.


    "This is¡­"


    With a thought, Qin Yun sensed the entire Three Realms and naturally felt the incredulous beam of light! It was a beam that illuminated the entirety of the Three Realms!


    "Infinite Glow."


    "Amita?"


    Qin Yun''s heart palpitated. "Amita has broken through to the Heavenly Dao realm?"


    In the history of the Three Realms, N¨¹wa was the first to achieve the Heavenly Dao realm, followed by the Daoist Three Pure Ones, Buddhist Ancestor Gautama, and finally, Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus.


    "The seventh Heavenly Dao realm existence in the history of the Three Realms." Qin Yun was shaken up and envious. Although his combat strength was presently astounding, that was because he had an Intrinsic Connate Merit Cardinal treasure in hand! In terms of the realm of his Dao, he was only at Kong Xuan''s and Goumang''s level. He was still far from Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, and Amita''s former half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    Now, Amita had taken another step forward, reaching a whole new level!


    "Brother Yun, Brother Yun, what happened?" Yi Xiao inquired for she noticed that Qin Yun was in a daze.


    "Something huge has happened," said Qin Yun.


    "Huge?" Yi Xiao was puzzled. "Is the Daoist-Fiend war about to end?"


    "No, it''s the Buddhists'' Amita. He has broken through to the Heavenly Dao realm," said Qin Yun as he suddenly frowned. "The Three Realms¡­"


    His realm was lower than the Fiend Ancestor''s, but he could still sense the state of the Three Realms. Soon, he discovered its changes.


    Sou!


    Qin Yun took a step forward and arrived at the edge of Mt. Lightning Roar''s mountaintop. He overlooked the vast, distant lands and took in the changes of the Heavenly realm.


    The Three Realms were changing! Even the Heavenly realm at the core of the Three Realms was changing naturally.


    The surroundings transformed as energy seemed to flow away like streaming dragons.


    "Supreme Yang star." Qin Yun suddenly looked up. The Supreme Yang star in the sky was originally blinding as it radiated its light and warmth. The power of the Supreme Yang reached every spot of the Three Realms, but now, under his observation, the Supreme Yang''s light was gradually converging. To a mortal, the Supreme Yang might appear to have dimmed. This was common for mortals; after all, the Supreme Yang could dim due to clouds or fog.


    But Qin Yun knew that this was not a result of clouds or fog. Instead, the entire Three Realms was changing. It was very possible that this change would be permanent and fundamental.


    "A change in the Myriad Objects can result in myriad changes.


    "Ignoring the Supreme Yang star''s changes, even the Supreme Yin star¡­" Qin Yun glanced far away. In that direction was a massive star, the Supreme Yin star. It was extremely cold originally, but its might was now converged as it turned mild. Even Qin Yun, who had figured out the Dao of Supreme Yang and the Dao of Supreme Yin, could only barely sense the changes in the Supreme Yin star.


    "Back when Pangu split the world into Yin and Yang, it is through the interaction of the two that the world came to have lightning, gales, and rain. Even humans were split from the interaction of Yin and Yang. In this change of the Three Realms, the source of Yin and Yang in the Three Realms, the Supreme Yang star and the Supreme Yin star first changed. The influence is just too huge." Qin Yun had a premonition.


    The change of the Three Realms was far more astounding than he had previously predicted.


    Although astounded, Qin Yun knew that this was a rare chance for meditation.


    The Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth was usually difficult to comprehend. Now that the Three Realms was experiencing a change¡­ many Great Dao turned much clearer, especially the changes in Yin and Yang. It allowed Qin Yun to carefully observe them. He had long figured out the Dao of Supreme Yang and the Dao of Supreme Yin¡­ and was just short of the true Great Dao of Yin and Yang and their interactions.


    "Brother Goumang, Brother Rushou, quickly come to the Three Realms." Qin Yun transmitted via a karmic voice transmission. He knew that the two were perennially in the Chaos.


    "Xiaoxiao, I''ll be spending some time here. Don''t let anyone disturb me." Qin Yun said as he focused his body and mind onto all the changes in the Three Realms.


    "Alright," Yi Xiao replied. She knew that it was a critical moment for her husband''s cultivation.


    ******


    "Whoosh."


    Across the cosmos, Goumang and Rushou tore through the void.


    "Amita has broken through to the Heavenly Dao realm?" Rushou was the first to sense the light illuminating the Three Realms. "Brother Qin sent us a voice transmission to come to the Three Realms without any explanation. Oh? That''s not right, the Three Realms¡­"


    Rushou also sensed it.


    "The Three Realms is undergoing change." Goumang sensed it as well.


    Both of them were born grasping a perfected Great Dao, and because they had accumulated a great deal of insight over their long lifespans, they could clearly sense the changes in the Three Realms.


    "The Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao is changing. We will be able to spy on the profound mysteries of the way the Myriad Objects operate." Rushou felt disbelief. "Why would the Three Realms experience such huge changes?"


    "Why bother wondering? First focus on meditating over this." Goumang took a step and arrived on a barren planet and sat cross-legged.


    Rushou similarly landed to his side and sat cross-legged.


    Both of them began meditating over the changes of the Three Realms on this barren planet.


    ¡­


    In a Great World.


    "The entire Three Realms is slowly changing."


    A coiled and colossal dragon opened his eyes.


    When his eyes opened, the Great World which was plunged into darkness brightened up. Everything turned clear and bright!


    His eyes were like the Supreme Yang star.


    "Now, even Amita has broken through to the Heavenly Dao realm. That junior, Black Lotus, also long reached the Heavenly Dao realm and is riding over me. I have accumulated so much insight, perhaps¡­ through this change in the Three Realms, I might be able to figure out the Heavenly Dao of Myriad Objects." He was born as one of the pinnacle existences in the world and, although he felt it was beneath him to vie for supremacy in the Three Realms, he was still a very proud person.


    With there being several Heavenly Dao realm existences in the Three Realms, he chose to entrench himself in a Great World.


    He did not wish to be under the command of the Heavenly Dao realm existences, nor did he wish to bow his head to them.


    In fact, he was not the only one of these lurking ancient existences in the Three Realms, this Torch Dragon. He was just one of the strongest ones.


    ******


    With the birth of a new Heavenly Dao realm existence, the strongest bunch of perfected Great Dao existences in the Three Realms began to meditate and take in the changes of the Three Realms. The Three Realms'' turning ethereal was a rare opportunity.


    On the mountaintop of Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yun was also meditating over it.

 727 Great Dao of Yin and Yang

    As Qin Yun watched the changes happening to the Three Realms, the change of Yin and Yang drove changes in the Myriad Things in the Heaven and Earth. He carefully pondered over its profound charms.


    After half a month of observation, he suddenly felt something arise in him.


    The accumulated insights over all his years of cultivation had finally reached the breakthrough point.


    "Yin and Yang are just two sides of the same coin for the Myriad Things. The changes of Yin Yang are the fundamental reason for change in the Myriad Things." Qin Yun''s mind was brimming with joy. The moment he figured out the Dao of Yin Yang Changes and naturally combined it with the Dao of Supreme Yin and Dao of Supreme Yin, the three Dao fused into one¡­ forming a perfected Great Dao¡ªGreat Dao of Yin and Yang!


    The Yin Yang Great Dao was also known as the Yin Yang Opposing Forces Great Dao. It similarly represented a supremum under the Heavenly Dao and also represented a core rationale of the Heavenly Dao.


    Acquiring comprehension of the Dao in the morning leaves one contented even if one dies in the evening.


    To see through the myriad objects to their core with a glance indeed gave cultivators an infinite joy.


    Added to the fact that he had grasped the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man previously, the combination of the two pushed Qin Yun''s comprehension of the Myriad Things to a far deeper level.


    "Up to this day, I have figured out the Great Dao of Yin and Yang. Together with my former Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, my realm can finally match that of Ancestral Dragon, Hou Yi, and the other half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences," thought Qin Yun. "It''s the first time I''m feeling that I''m not too far from the Heavenly Dao realm."


    The Heavenly Dao and Myriad Things seemed extremely profound, but every perfected Great Dao pointed to their essence. The more he grasped, the more he understood of the Myriad Things in the Heaven and Earth. When he grasped two perfected Great Dao, his combat strength was already very close to the Heavenly Dao realm. When he grasped three perfected Great Dao, it would generate a qualitative change, allowing the three to synergize into the Myriad Things, and letting him fully comprehend the Dao of the Myriad Things in Heaven and Earth and attain the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "However, luck was involved in me being able to figure out the Great Dao of Yin and Yang."


    "Firstly¡­ I relied on the Spirit Enlightening Fruit to be able to figure out the Dao of Supreme Yin and Dao of Supreme Yang in a short period of time. Then it took tens of thousands of years, together with the changes in the Three Realms, for me to figure out the Dao of Yin Yang Change," thought Qin Yun. "If not for the Spirit Enlightening Fruit and this change in the Three Realms, I might not even have figured it out even after spending millions of years or more."


    "Therefore, Master and the rest, and even Amita, who has recently broken through, are indeed impressive. They have gone through great ordeals and have reached the Heavenly Dao realm through long periods of cultivation," thought Qin Yun.


    For instance, for Hou Yi to be as powerful as he was, it firstly had to do with his extremely high realm. He was in no way inferior to the Ancestral Dragon and the rest. Secondly, he had created the Heart Force lineage by himself and had cultivated to an extremely high realm. Combining all these means, he was able to produce terrifying strength that far exceeded his level.


    Every expert was not a fluke of chance.


    Under the threat of the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, Qin Yun had been forced to cultivate to an extremely powerful state in a short ten thousand years. Otherwise, death would have been his only option. He had even forged a new sword immortal lineage, with its Essence Soul taking the form of a human. It was qualitatively different from the sword-shaped Essence Soul. The cultivation Dharmic formulation also influenced one''s heart and mind; for instance, fiendish cultivators would become crazier and more relentless.


    It was unknown how big the difference was between a sword-shaped Essence Soul and a humanoid Essence Soul.


    But without a doubt¡ª


    From the experience of all the lineages in the Three Realms, a humanoid Essence Soul was the orthodox method.


    All the Daoist Three Pure Ones were as such. Although the Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor had created the sword cultivator lineage out of thin air, he did not cultivate it himself, so his Essence Soul was still that of a humanoid form.


    "The combination of Yin Yang and the Heaven, Earth, and Man requires furthermore fortification. I believe having offensive moves that reach the Heavenly Dao might wouldn''t be difficult," thought Qin Yun. Although he had focused on offensive moves in the past tens of thousands of years, and had an Intrinsic Connate Merit Cardinal treasure that improved his offensive might to the point of being close to the Heavenly Dao realm, they were still lacking something. Clearly, breaking through that bottleneck was an extremely difficult thing.


    However, Qin Yun was very confident after figuring out the Great Dao of Yin and Yang.


    His offensive moves would definitely reach the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. If he were to burn his Essence Soul, he might even match Hou Yi''s Essence Soul-burning fifth or sixth arrow.


    When it came to the offensive, Qin Yun still had to admit that¡­ even as a sword immortal, he was still inferior to Hou Yi who had fused the Heart Force into everything he had. Furthermore, Hou Yi had obtained many treasures in the spatial tide. For instance, the three curved sabers from Bohan Island Lord and the Spirit Enlightening Fruit and Chaos Origins Fruit. As long as he consumed the Spirit Enlightening Fruit and entered seclusion, his strength would increase further, and it was a possibility that he would break through to the Heavenly Dao realm.


    "Although I''ve improved tremendously, I''ll still have to cultivate a long time before I can reach the Heavenly Dao realm." Qin Yun closed his eyes and continued cultivating.


    The fusion of Yin Yang and Heaven, Earth, and Man.


    When applied to the Misty Rain Array, how would it fare in fending off enemies? How was it used to kill enemies? How could it be used to trap enemies?


    He had to admit that ever since the Cyclic Sword Flash he used from a young age, he had quite some insight when it came to defensive arts. In addition to the ten thousand years worth of focusing on defensive means before the Itinerant Immortal tribulations, he truly had talent when it came to defense. Now that he was fusing the Great Dao of Yin and Yang into the Misty Rain Array¡­ the Misty Rain Array rapidly improved when it came to its defense capabilities.


    "I''m a sword immortal; yet, I''m so fast when it comes to figuring out defensive means, but so much slower when it comes to offensive moves," Qin Yun grumbled secretly.


    ¡­


    In a blink of an eye, a month had passed since Amita broke through.


    Qin Yun also cultivated for a month, and news of him figuring out the Great Dao of Yin and Yang was naturally unknown to the outside world.


    "Mom, what happened to the Three Realms?" On Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yiyi was somewhat anxious. "Countless Small Worlds are seeing their Heaven and Earth spiritual energies go into decline. Even the Heavenly realm''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies have thinned tremendously. It''s about half it originally was. I even feel that¡­ it''s still decreasing in the Heavenly realm. The level of its decline is something even I can sense. This is way too terrifying."


    "The Heavenly realm, Great Worlds and Small Worlds¡ªeverywhere is having their Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thin out. And Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are fundamental to cultivation. The lesser there is, the harder it is for cultivation. Many Small Worlds can allow ascension when one cultivates to the Essence Soul realm. With the spiritual energies so thin, it''s not even possible to form an Essence Soul. They can only reach the Connate Golden Core. Ascension has also become tens of not a hundred times harder," asked Qin Yiyi. "Mom, what exactly happened to the Three Realms?"


    "I''m not sure either." Yi Xiao shook her head and said, "I know that your father began cultivating a month ago and forbade us from disturbing him."


    "I''ve asked Yuluo," added Qin Yiyi. "Yuluo''s master, Senior Hou Yi, also began cultivating a month ago. He forbade his disciples from disturbing him."


    Yi Xiao said, "I''m guessing that your father, Hou Yi, and the rest likely know what has happened to the Three Realms. Calm down. Let''s wait till they exit seclusion."


    "Yeah, that''s all we can do." Qin Yiyi nodded. "However, everyone is worried at this moment. Sigh."


    The Misty Rain Sword Sect had penetrated countless Small Worlds. With the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies decline across countless Small Worlds, many of the disciples noticed it during their communications¡­ that even the Heavenly realm was no exception in the Three Realms. Naturally, people turned worried.


    Unfortunately, their Ancestral Master, Sword Immortal Qin, was in seclusion and no one was to disturb him.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, by the bank of a lake.


    A black-haired black-robed elder, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, stood there, watching the lush weeds and the fish in the pond as he took in the changes of the world.


    He placed great emphasis on the changes the Three Realms were undergoing. He felt that the effects of these changes were far-reaching and now, with the Heavenly realm''s spiritual energies thinning to half its original state, Numinous Treasure felt that¡­ it was only just the beginning.


    "Oh?"


    Numinous Treasure suddenly had a change in expression.


    "The Three Realms¡­" Numinous Treasure sensed it. "they''re finally forcing us to leave? That quickly?"


    Ever since Gonggong smashed into Mt. Buzhou, the Three Realms had been constantly weakening despite Goddess N¨¹wa''s mending of the heavens. The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor had long expected that¡­ the Three Realms would force them to leave. However, they had expected it to be a million years into the future. But after Amita''s breakthrough, the changes in the Three Realms accelerated. Now, it was beginning to force their departure.


    Whoosh. A white-haired elder appeared beside him.


    "Elder Lord, you sensed it too?" inquired Numinous Treasure.


    "Both of us have sensed it," said Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor with a nod. "Amita''s breakthrough has accelerated the changes in the Three Realms. Furthermore, the changes are happening at very fast speeds every day. Now, we are sensing that the entire Three Realms are rejecting us. Perhaps, it won''t be long until, if we don''t leave¡­ the entire Three Realms will forcefully expel us. Just like how we aren''t able to enter Great Worlds with our true bodies, our true bodies will be unable to enter the Three Realms in the future."


    Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning also walked out of the void and said, "We have long expected this day, but it has come too soon."


    "It''s just a matter of time before we ultimately leave," said Numinous Treasure with a laugh. "To us, a million years early doesn''t really matter. Instead, it''s Black Lotus¡­ who''s probably really anxious."


    "Yeah," agreed Primordial Beginning. "He stirred up the Daoist-Fiend war and had it break out in the countless Small Worlds. Massive numbers of cultivators have died be they Daoists, Buddhists, or Fiends. It has indeed lessened the burden of the Three Realms over the recent years. He probably imagined that¡­ he could drag out the fateful day by a million years, but who knew that Amita''s breakthrough would instantly cause the Three Realms to change. It''s now forcing us to leave and all his years of scheming have been for naught."


    "Since we have to leave the Three Realms, let''s prepare," said Numinous Treasure as he turned to leave.


    The Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning and Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor left as well.

 728 Green Touring Palaces New Sect Master

    Qin Yun was still seated on Mt. Lightning Roar''s mountaintop cultivating when a voice suddenly sounded in his mind. "Disciple, quickly come to Green Touring Palace."


    "Master?" Qin Yun''s eyes opened.


    During this studying of the changes to the Three Realms, the key result was his enlightenment in the Great Dao of Yin and Yang. Now that he already gained this insight, he was spending the past month consolidating his strength and fusing the Great Dao of Yin and Yang into the Misty Rain Array to enhance his defensive strength, trapping abilities, and offensive strength. Naturally, he could stop at any time.


    "Master has suddenly summoned me? It likely has to do with the changes to the Three Realms," thought Qin Yun. Immediately, an avatar flew out and headed for Green Touring Palace.


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace.


    The moment Qin Yun arrived, he sensed the location of his master. It was on the boundary of the Green Touring Palace''s floating continent. Numinous Treasure was seated there, calmly watching the clouds tumble.


    "Master." Qin Yun bowed reverently when he came near.


    "I''ll be leaving the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure.


    Qin Yun''s heart tightened.


    Leaving the Three Realms?


    "Master, why the sudden need to leave the Three Realms?" Qin Yun recalled the changes to the Three Realms and inquired, "Is it because of the changes of the Three Realms?"


    Numinous Treasure nodded and said, "Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus instigated the Daoist-Fiend war, causing countless Daoist, Buddhist, and fiendish cultivators to perish. After their deaths, their powers returned to the world, lessening the burden on the Three Realms. We thought the few of us would be able to remain in the Three Realms for another few million years, but Amita''s breakthrough has caused the Three Realms to have a total of seven Heavenly Dao realm existences. The burden on the Three Realms has greatened drastically, thereby directly causing the change to the Three Realms."


    "The Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao knows what it cannot handle, resulting in direct change.


    "It reduced the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the Three Realms, reducing the number of cultivators drastically, making it impossible to cultivate in many Small Worlds," said Numinous Treasure. "Furthermore, it will be chasing all seven of us Heavenly Dao realm fogies! Once we leave, the burden will be much more relaxed. It''s possible that the Three Realms might even enter a self-regulating state, and that would be truly a blessing in disguise."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    The Three Realms itself was constantly drawing on the powers in the Chaos to provide for the countless living beings that lived there.


    If the absorption could match the expenditure, the Three Realms would not continue weakening. That would indeed be a joyous event for the countless beings in the Three Realms.


    The Three Realms in its former state¡­ was constantly in its waning phase.


    "The Heavenly Dao will seek balance," said Qin Yun. "I believe after this change, the Three Realms will last for eternity."


    "Yes." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor nodded and said, "This change in the Three Realms happened very quickly. In just a short month, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were drastically reduced. I sensed that the Three Realms are beginning to force the few of us out, and this expulsion is gradually growing stronger. If I''m not wrong, in seven days, if we haven''t left, the Three Realms will expel us completely."


    "Seven days?" Qin Yun was alarmed. That was too soon.


    "Seven days is enough," said Numinous Treasure. "Having cultivated for so long, the thing I''m most worried about has been all my disciples. But with your appearance, I''ve been a lot more relieved. With you around, Green Touring Palace will not collapse."


    "I will definitely do my best," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "I''ve said before that I would make you be the new sect master of Green Touring Palace," said Numinous Treasure. "The time is now. Today, I''ll inform all the disciples that we will be holding a sect master transfer ceremony tomorrow! You will succeed me as sect master."


    Qin Yun could sense the urgency of the matter, but he still said reverently, "Yes, I will definitely not disappoint you."


    "It also depends on Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus," said Numinous Treasure. "He must have sensed the expulsion from the Three Realms. With just seven days time, if he were to immediately flee the Three Realms, the rest of us will immediately leave to pursue him! In such a case, I will not be able to preside over this succession ceremony. But don''t worry, I''ll still inform every disciple.


    "Also, this is Green Touring Palace''s sect master token." Numinous Treasure flipped his hand and produced a green token. "Refine this for yourself and you can control all of Green Touring Palace. You will then be Green Touring Palace''s sect master. This token shall now be yours."


    With that said, he handed the token over to Qin Yun.


    The token was actually recently refined. Numinous Treasure did not need a token to control the sect, but his successors would need it.


    "Take it." Numinous Treasure looked at Qin Yun.


    Qin Yun looked at the token and knew that he was gaining the responsibility of power.


    It was the burden of being responsible for countless disciples of the Green Touring Palace lineage of the three Daoist lineages as well as the responsibility to protect the Three Realms. The Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts had always been protecting the Three Realms. It was the fiends and some unbridled Chaos Godfiends who wanted to make the Three Realms into a huge hunting ground.


    "Your humble disciple accepts it." Qin Yun reverently received the token.


    Numinous Treasure watched this scene feeling gratified.


    This was an inheritance.


    An inheritance of responsibility!


    "Refine this token first. I will then tell you about Green Touring Palace properly," said Numinous Treasure.


    ¡­


    The master began talking and the disciple began listening.


    Green Touring Palace was the Dao residence of Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, which was also the core of the Green Touring Palace lineage. Here, there were places like the Myriad Dharma Pool, Star Cluster Hall, Treasure Splitting Cliff, Ten Absolutes Array, and many other places. All of them were heavily guarded with array formations. Even the Immortal Vanquishing Array was just one of the massive array formations in Green Touring Palace. With all of these formations combined, even Heavenly Dao experts could hardly crack through its defenses.


    As for those below the Heavenly Dao realm? Without even reaching the requisite realm, they wouldn''t even be able to find Green Touring Palace.


    ******


    That day, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor informed all his disciples, from Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain all the way to the ordinary Skyimmortal disciples. All of them received the news that their master was handing over the position of sect master to Qin Yun! The sect master sucession ceremony would be held in Green Touring Palace the very next day!


    "It''s only right that Senior Brother Qin takes over as sect master. However, Master still has a million years to go before leaving the Three Realms. Is there a need to hand it over in such a rush?"


    "It''s better to do the succession early. It will allow all of our fellow disciples to feel at ease. Now, I wouldn''t accept anyone to take over as sect master except for Senior Brother Qin."


    The Green Touring Palace disciples all had their opinions as they discussed.


    However, no had any qualms about it.


    After all, he was publicly acknowledged to have the strength of a half-step Heavenly Dao realm. He had a wide social connection and the other half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences like Ancestral Dragon and Hou Yi shared a extremely good relationship with him. Furthermore, with the flourishing of the Misty Rain Sword Sect which Qin Yun had established, Qin Yun''s level of influence was obvious.


    ¡­


    There were many Green Touring Palace disciples, so the news quickly spread.


    Mt. Lightning Roar was in euphoria as well.


    The Qin family descendants on Mt. Lightning Roar were delighted. Clearly, they shared the glory upon seeing their patriarch, Sword Immortal Qin, become the sect master of Green Touring Palace.


    "Brother Yun, in the past month, all the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the entire Three Realms have been declining. Even the Heavenly realm was halved," said Yi Xiao. "Now the Dao Ancestor is suddenly making you sect master, are all of these events related?"


    "Yes. The Three Realms is changing. The Dao Ancestors will have to leave the Three Realms in a few days," said Qin Yun with a sigh. "The Three Realms is forcefully expelling them."


    "They have to leave in a few days?" Yi Xiao was astonished before she added, "Then, would the Fiend Ancestor be leaving too?"


    "He has to leave too." Qin Yun nodded. "However, the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor will definitely not let him off."


    "Oh?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    "What''s wrong?" Yi Xiao looked at him.


    Qin Yun said, "Just moments ago, Jade Void Palace spread the news that the new sect master of Jade Void Palace would be Yang Jian. Similarly, they will be holding a succession ceremony tomorrow."


    ¡­


    Green Touring Palace would be helmed by Qin Yun.


    As for Jade Void Palace, it was to be helmed by Yang Jian!


    The two pieces of news rapidly spread through the Three Realms, garnering the attention of countless cultivators.


    If Qin Yun''s taking over as sect master was something everyone felt acceptable, Yang Jian did cause a tiny stir. After all, Yang Jian was a third generation disciple of Jade Void Palace. The second-generation disciples were his Uncle-Masters. Furthermore, Guangchengzi had long reached the perfected Great Dao and held the Empyrean Seal with extremely formidable combat strength. At present, he was about Yang Jian''s equal.


    Of course, it was only a tiny stir. Jade Void Palace was still very united. Furthermore, the mighty figures all knew that Yang Jian was a perfected Great Dao expert of the Physical Establishing Sage. He was already equal to Guangchengzi after breaking through. As long as he further consolidated his realm, it would be just a matter of time before he surpassed him and reached the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.


    However, these two pieces of news still caused some panic.


    "Sword Immortal Qin is taking over Green Touring Palace and Yang Jian is taking over Jade Void Palace. Furthermore, the news was spread on the same day. They are also holding their succession realms in a day. Now that the changes in the Three Realms have been so intense, there must be many secrets behind this which we are unaware of."


    "We are just trivial figures. We can only go with the flow. At this moment, with the changes in the Three Realms, it''s best we keep a low profile. Don''t be careless or we might end up losing our lives."


    "I plan on returning to enter seclusion, not to come out for at least ten thousand years."


    "Reasonable. Seclude yourself and temporarily isolate yourself from the outside world. Don''t involve yourself in any conflict."


    Many cultivators in the Three Realms felt the incoming storm.


    ******


    Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus did not flee immediately, allowing the Dao Ancestors to personally preside over a sect master succession ceremony.


    The next day.


    Green Touring Palace, main hall.


    Tens of thousands of disciples were in the main hall, with Qin Yun standing right in front of all of them. Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain stood slightly behind him as Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor looked down with a smile.


    Under the watchful gazes of all the disciples, Qin Yun officially received the position of new sect master from the Dao Ancestor.


    "Greetings Sect Master."


    Tens of thousands of Green Touring Palace disciples bowed reverently in unison.


    ¡­


    In Jade Void Palace.


    "Greetings Sect Master."


    All the disciples in Jade Void Palace bowed reverently towards Yang Jian.


    ¡­


    On that day, Qin Yun and Yang Jian respectively inherited the positions of Green Touring Palace and Jade Void Palace sect master.


    The Three Realms had ushered in a brand new age.

 729 Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus

    Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor and Qin Yun were having a stroll together as clouds lingered around them.


    "Now that you have taken over the position of sect master, all matters big and small in Green Touring Palace shall be left to you to decide," said Numinous Treasure. He had deep feelings for Green Touring Palace. After all, he had build it from nothing and guided it to its present state, turning it into a super faction in the Three Realms.


    "I will definitely not let you down," said Qin Yun reverently.


    "Alright."


    Numinous Treasure said. "Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus is still hiding in the Three Realms. However, the expulsion the Three Realms is putting on us is intensifying constantly. He will definitely flee within six days. At the moment he flees, it will be time for us to leave the Three Realms. After we leave the Three Realms, we will first kill him before joining up to travel the Chaos to explore even wider regions."


    "Master, you have to be careful," said Qin Yun immediately.


    "Haha, back before I reached the Heavenly Dao realm, I had also adventured in the spatial tide," said Numinous Treasure with a smile. "I know that even in other places, Heavenly Dao realm existences are still rare. By going together as a group, we should be quite well-rounded and safe. Besides, we will leave avatars in the Chaos outside the Three Realms."


    Qin Yun''s eyes lit up.


    He was an Itinerant Immortal with many avatars. The Heavenly Dao ream existences all had their avatar arts. For instance, Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus had the female body, the male body, and the destruction body. As for Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, he was able to split into three avatars. Buddhist Ancestor Gautama had his Body of Dharma, Body of Enjoyment, and Body of Transformation¡­ As for Goddess N¨¹wa, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, and Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, all of them had similar means.


    Their departure from the Three Realms required them to probe the massive Chaos which was filled with unknowns. Leaving an avatar in the Chaos beyond the Three Realms was a way to protect their homeworld and also as a safety mechanism.


    "Elderly Lord, Primordial Beginning, and I will build a cave abode in the Chaos outside the Three Realms and we will call it Three Pure Temple. We will leave our avatars inside to stay there," said Numinous Treasure. "If there''s anything you need, you can find me there."


    "Yes, Master." Qin Yun answered.


    "Probing the Chaos is something we have long wanted to do," said Numinous Treasure. "We wish to find a path beyond the Heavenly Dao realm. At the same time, we also wish to find means of creating new worlds. Back then, Pangu sacrificed his life to create the Three Realms. We wish to know if it''s possible for us to do the same without sacrificing our lives.


    "Due to the damage Gonggong did previously, the Three Realms have weakened too drastically. We are also worried that if the Three Realms continues its development, it will eventually meet its final destruction," said Numinous Treasure. "If that''s the case, we need to create a new world for the countless lives in the Three Realms."


    Qin Yun was more and more impressed and reverent of his master and the rest.


    Compared to the Chaos Godfiends who only knew how to derive pleasure from hunting, Goddess N¨¹wa, his master, and the rest truly treated the Three Realms as their homeworld and wished to protect all life within.


    "Back then, N¨¹wa''s mending of the heavens only extended the life of the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure. "The change the Three Realms underwent this time is only a manifestation of the Three Realms trying to save itself. And all of you must abide by the Heavenly Dao, so as to allow the Three Realms to last longer."


    "I understand, Master," replied Qin Yun.


    Protecting all life and maintaining the existence of the Three Realms. Such huge matters were now his burden. Yang Jian and Ancestral Dragon were also considered allies of Qin Yun when it came to this.


    ******


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    Fiend Ancestor''s female body was walking through the void with Patriarch Blood Sea before they came to a land of mystery.


    "Could this be?" Patriarch Blood Sea looked ahead in astonishment. There was a black pool of water in the void ahead which had no obvious source. It was as though it came out of nothing. The churning waters were extremely sticky and each drop of water allowed one to see all the hatred, killing, and sin that had happened before in the Three Realms.


    "This is the legendary Pond of Fiend Abyss, the source of the entire Tenebrous Fiend Abyss," said Fiend Ancestor calmly. "Whoever grasps it will be in control of all the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and be its owner."


    Patriarch Blood Sea looked at it covetously.


    In the early days, Black Lotus was an expert which manifested out of a Lotus Seed of Fate. Later, only after Pangu split the heaven and earth apart did he become the owner of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    After taking control of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss¡­ he remained invincible inside. Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were unable to charge in.


    Even in the outside world, the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss powers augmented him, greatly increasing his strength.


    "I had promised to make you owner of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss," said Fiend Ancestor. "Go on in. Helm the entirety of Tenebrous Fiend Abyss."


    Patriarch Blood Sea felt his heart palpitate.


    Although he had long heard the Fiend Ancestor''s promise, there were many conditions tied to it. Who would know that the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss would be handed over to him today.


    "You have a body of Blood Sea, making you indestructible, with numerous avatars. By possessing the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s powers¡­ you will be able to protect the fiendish way," said Fiend Ancestor. "As for Boxun, he is bent on cultivating to the Heavenly Dao realm. He wouldn''t put in as much effort for the fiends as you do."


    "Fiend Ancestor, don''t worry. I will naturally do my best for the fiendish way," said Patriarch Blood Sea immediately.


    "Your true body, the Blood Sea, is inside the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, so I obviously trust you. Quickly enter," urged Fiend Ancestor.


    "Yes."


    Patriarch Blood Sea did not hesitate to step into the black pond.


    As he stepped into the water, the water began to bore into his body. The hatred, killing, and sins began to affect him as Patriarch Blood Sea''s expression changed slightly, "Fiend Ancestor, this¡­"


    "Do you think anyone can control the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss? One has to maintain his original self even under the burden of all the resentment and sin in the Three Realms," said Fiend Ancestor. "If you can''t even maintain that, your avatar will turn into a part of the pond, but of course, I trust that you will capable of doing it."


    Fiend Ancestor was a body of Black Lotus to begin with.


    A black lotus¡­ would not be corrupted by the water.


    Patriarch Blood Sea was similarly extraordinary. He had figured out the Great Dao of Sin, and fed on sin. He had deep foundations, so how could he be easily assimilated?


    Fiend Ancestor''s female body stood by the side for an hour and felt her control over the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss taken away from her bit by bit. She knew that Blood Sea was about to succeed as she nodded.


    "The final thing to do has been done." Fiend Ancestor looked up into the void. "I''ve accumulated too little experience and strength when compared to those old fogies. I have always schemed to extend my time in the Three Realms to give myself more chances to cultivate, hoping to get an additional Lotus Seed of Fate or treasure formed by a Lotus Seed of Fate, but no matter what my plans were, they were inferior to the plans of the heavens! There''s only six days left. When the day comes, the Three Realms will expel all the Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    "Whatever.


    "Having done and schemed so much, I originally thought I had a thirty percent chance of escaping from the five fogies. But with an additional Amita, I will only have a ten percent chance of escaping¡­ when facing the pursuit of the six of them¡­


    "I''ll give it a try.


    "I, Black Lotus, swear that if I can escape, Gautama, Three Pure Ones, N¨¹wa, Amita, all of you will receive payback a hundred times, a thousand times over." Fiend Ancestor''s eyes were filled with sharpness.


    "Time to go!"


    With a thought, the Fiend Ancestor''s female body, male body, and destruction body instantly tore through space-time and left the Three Realms at an extremely fast speed.


    Without any hesitation, he had left the Three Realms and began fleeing.


    "Oh?" In Eight Scenic Palace, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, who was meditating, suddenly opened his eyes. The usually peaceful him now had an extremely sharp look in his eyes. He sensed that the Fiend Ancestor had split into three, and all three had left the Three Realms and fled in different directions.


    "The Fiend Ancestor''s three bodies have fled the Three Realms in different directions?


    "He sure fled snappily. But can you escape?" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor instantly left the Three Realms.


    "This Black Lotus has been wreaking havoc in the Three Realms and is filled with sin. Now, he wishes to leave? What a joke." In Green Touring Palace, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s eyes were filled with killing intent. He too instantly left the Three Realms.


    "Yang Jian, I''m leaving the Jade Void Palace to you," Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning said before he left the Three Realms.


    "Amita, let''s go."


    Buddhist Ancestor Gautama and Amita left the Three Realms together.


    Goddess N¨¹wa also took a step and left the Three Realms.


    All of them had long prepared for their future days of probing the Chaos. But the first thing they needed to do was kill Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus.

 730 Pursui

    In the Heavenly realm''s Mt. Lightning Roar, Qin Yun looked up into the infinite cosmos and, through karma, sensed his master''s whereabouts. His master had already left the Three Realms and, in a blink of an eye, vanished from Qin Yun''s range of perception.


    "Master and the rest have left. This time, they have probably left the Three Realms forever." Qin Yun felt mixed emotions.


    From that moment forth, they would be taking different paths.


    His master and company would kill Fiend Ancestor and probe the Chaos in search of ways to create a new world.


    Qin Yun and the rest would stay behind in the Three Realms, managing and protecting it.


    "Heavenly Lord." In Jade Void Palace, Yang Jian had also opened his third eye to look beyond the Three Realms.


    "Buddhist Ancestor." Maitreya and Guan Yin watched from afar as well. Maitreya was now the leader of the Buddhists. The older generation such as Burning Lamp and Medicine Master focused on cultivation.


    At that moment, the new generation of Daoist and Buddhist leaders were feeling a rush of emotions.


    Killing the Fiend Ancestor was an important matter, but the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor would be gone forever. That would lead to far reaching consequences and it was believed that soon, all the lurking old existences would appear one by one. When that happened, would they be as powerful as the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor?


    ******


    Outside the Three Realms, in the vast Chaos.


    Since the seven Heavenly Dao realm figures had left the Three Realms, they threw it to the back of their minds. Whatever ensued there was now the problem of the younger generation.


    "Whoosh."


    Fiend Ancestor''s female body was dressed in white and she had purple long hair. She stepped through the void with her feet bare, tearing through immense spatial distances. In a blink of an eye, she had left the Three Realms far behind her.


    "Black Lotus, you won''t escape." Goddess N¨¹wa''s voice boomed around the Fiend Ancestor as the surrounding space froze. It prevented the Fiend Ancestor''s female body from tunneling through space-time. All she could do was fly normally.


    She turned to the right with a change in expression and saw Goddess N¨¹wa walking over.


    Goddess N¨¹wa had a tall body as she calmly looked at Fiend Ancestor. "Do you want to commit suicide, or let me do it?"


    "The most ancient Heavenly Dao realm existence in the Three Realms," Fiend Ancestor sneered and said, "is dealing with the weakest of my avatars? From the looks of it, this avatar is doomed. But I, Black Lotus, aren''t in the habit of killing myself. You want to kill me? Let''s see if you have what it takes. Let me see¡­ how powerful you are."


    "Black Lotus, you once helmed the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and absorbed the sins and corruption in the Three Realms. You should have made the Three Realms pure and tranquil and that would have been a meritorious deed," said N¨¹wa. "But what did you do? You spread sinful and corruptive Dharmic formulations across the Three Realms, inciting even more killing in the Three Realms. The foulness of the Three Realms was because of you. The number of lives lost to your evil is uncountable. In the Three Realms, you have the greatest sin."


    "Haha, why should I so honestly just suck up the sins? To be a cleaner for your Three Realms?" Fiend Ancestor''s female body scoffed. "That''s precisely what I wanted to do, invert this world from what is it. I wanted to make the Fiendish Heavenly Dao fill the Three Realms and be its true owner."


    "Excessive flames of desire will only burn you to death," N¨¹wa said as she flicked her sleeve, instantly sending five-colored beams to surge from every direction towards the Fiend Ancestor.


    ¡­


    "Black Lotus." Accompanied by resounding voices, two figures appeared side by side as they pursued the Fiend Ancestor''s male body.


    Fiend Ancestor''s male body turned to look. "So it''s the two bald donkeys. Amita, you sure are impressive. You managed to break through to the Heavenly Dao realm while I incited the Daoist-Fiend war and spoiled my plans, forcing me to flee the Three Realms early."


    "What you did and what you shall receive today is nothing but karma," said Amita. "If you had followed the Heavenly Dao and remained kind to life, we wouldn''t have joined forces to deal with you."


    "Hmph, come on. Let me see how powerful you Buddhists are." Fiend Ancestor''s male body scoffed.


    ¡­


    In terms of speed, Goddess N¨¹wa, who had the greatest amount of accumulated insight and strength, was the first to chase up to the Fiend Ancestor''s female body.


    For Buddhist Ancestor Gautama and Amita, although Amita had recently attained the Heavenly Dao realm, his essential Great Dao, the Infinite Glow, was extremely fast. Although he had not had much time to accumulate his insights, he ended up being second to chase up to the Fiend Ancestor''s avatar.


    Instead, it was Fiend Ancestor''s strongest destruction body whose speed at tunneling through space-time was greater than his other two avatars.


    "Both my avatars have been caught up to so quickly?" Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was fleeing via a different path at extremely fast speeds, but there was an ethereal aura rapidly closing in on him. It was faster than his tunneling of space-time.


    "My destruction body can''t escape them either. I have ultimately cultivated for too short a period of time. Although I have been working hard to study the Dharmic formulations of space-time, I''m still not their match." Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was furious and indignant. As he looked at the figure appear behind him, it was a white-haired elder who was none other than Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. With a flick of his wrist, he produced a huge black and white Taiji symbol in the surrounding area.


    The moment the Taiji symbol appeared, space-time was suppressed, preventing Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body from continuing his tunneling of space-time. All he could do was fly.


    Whoosh.


    Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning and Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor appeared closely behind.


    "Your destruction body escaped quite quickly." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor had the four Immortal Vanquishing Swords floating behind him as he said with a smile, "Thankfully, Elderly Lord''s attainment in the Space-time Dao is deep and profound, allowing him to catch up to you."


    "The Daoist''s Three Pure Ones are joining forces to deal with my destruction body. That''s quite an honor." Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body looked at the trio in front of him.


    The Three Pure Ones had joined forces to create the Daoist school of thought.


    Before they reached the Heavenly Dao realm, the trio had often joined forces and reigned supreme in the spatial tides.


    The three of them had powerful means and worked well together. The three combined was a force to be reckoned and according to the plan, they were to deal with the most problematic destruction body.


    "We can''t underestimate this destruction body of yours," said Primordial Beginning. "Defeating you isn''t difficult. Even I can defeat your destruction body in an individual fight, but to completely kill you will require the three of us."


    "The three of us would have an absolute chance of doing so," said Numinous Treasure. "Black Lotus, die!"


    With that said, the four terrifying sword beams tore through the Chaos and sliced towards the destruction body.


    "You can forget about killing me even if all three of you join forces!" The destruction body opened its third eye at its glabella as terrifying destructive auras erupted. A black beam shot out and clashed with the four sword beams. The Divine Eye of Destruction that represented Major Destruction barely fended off the four Immortal Vanquishing Swords, but far off, Primordial Beginning held up a cloth banner.


    This cloth banner was the legendary main body of Pangu''s Ax after he split the heaven and earth apart¡ªPangu Banner.


    Even the remnant main body of Pangu''s Ax was a top-grade Connate Cardinal treasure in the Three Realms.


    "Boom." With just a wave of the Pangu Banner in his hand, the void where the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was suffered an immense suppressive force. The force attempted to shatter everything, including the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body.


    If Numinous Treasure''s attack was considered extremely sharp and terrifying, then Primordial Beginning''s attack was entirely direct and straightforward as he produced a singular suppression.


    Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body had just used his Divine Eye of Destruction''s forces to fend off the four Immortal Vanquishing Swords, so at that moment, all he could do was blanket his body with a blue light to withstand the strike of the Pangu Banner.


    "Bam!"


    The void around Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body shattered as many wounds appeared over the surface of his body. Blood splattered, but he managed to withstand the blow.


    "Even a black lotus like you has improved," said Primordial Beginning in astonishment.


    "This Black Lotus''s destruction body is indeed powerful. He has also changed a Lotus Seed of Fate into a Divine Eye of Destruction. One on one, no one can kill him," said Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. "From my point of view, we should combine forces and be rid of him."


    "Alright, let''s go with Elderly Lord''s suggestion," echoed Numinous Treasure and Primordial Beginning. They had each tried, so they knew that they couldn''t kill the destruction body without joining forces.


    However, Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body became very wary.


    "Arise."


    A gigantic black-and-white Taiji symbol enveloped the surroundings for hundreds of millions of kilometers, causing the Chaos to separate into Yin and Yang. The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was completely trapped in this black-and-white Taiji symbol world.


    "I''m trapped." Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body felt anxious and helpless when trapped within.


    "Go." Numinous Treasure waved his hand and sent the four divine swords flying out as they landed on four spots of the Taiji symbol.


    "Destroy." Elder Lord commanded.


    As Primordial Beginning waved the Pangu Banner, he dealt an all-out blow and struck right at the center of the Taiji symbol.


    The Taiji symbol was also delivering Yin and Yang assaults.


    The might of the four Immortal Vanquishing Swords was fully gathered as they converged to the center.


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was trapped in the middle of the array formation and could only suffer the terrifying annihilative forces. He desperately tried to fend off the attack as immense amounts of black light from his Divine Eye of Destruction enveloped his body.


    "Boom!"


    The combined strike landed.


    When calm was restored, the Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body had long been pulverized. All that was left was the Divine Eye of Destruction and other items.


    The Fiend Ancestor''s destruction body was dead!


    "He wasn''t able to withstand the first move of our combined attack," said Primordial Beginning.


    "It''s already impressive that it required the three of us to deliver a combined attack. After all, he reached the Heavenly Dao realm later than us, and he had not accumulated much. He could rely only on the might of his Divine Eye of Destruction," said Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor.


    "Out of his three avatars, we are the first to kill him," Numinous Treasure sensed and said with a smile.


    ¡­


    "I''m one step slower than the Three Pure Ones." Goddess N¨¹wa looked at the Fiend Ancestor''s female body which was bound by five-colored light as the female body struggled desperately.


    "Obliterate," Goddess N¨¹wa said softly.


    An invisible surge spread out, pervading the mind of the Fiend Ancestor''s female body. Instantly, her Essence Soul quaked as she became much weaker at defending against the five-colored light.


    "Pew." The five-colored light suddenly retracted as the Fiend Ancestor''s female body was smashed into powder.


    The Ancestral Fiend''s female body was dead as well.

 731 Cosmos, Barren Cultivation Land

    "Now, there''s only the male body of Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus." N¨¹wa looked into the distance and saw Gautama and Amita dealing with Fiend Ancestor''s male body.


    "Oh?"


    N¨¹wa''s expression suddenly changed. "No good!"


    She could sense from afar the auras of Gautama, Amita, and Fiend Ancestor''s male body, but suddenly, another Fiend Ancestor aura appeared within the male body''s aura, one far stronger.


    "Two Fiend Ancestor auras? The Fiend Ancestor has a fourth avatar?" N¨¹wa turned anxious as she immediately tore through space-time to rush over.


    However, back when Fiend Ancestor fled, the three avatars had fled in three different directions. It made the three battlegrounds rather distant from each other.


    Although N¨¹wa and the Three Pure Ones had sensed the changes and immediately rushed over, it was obvious it would take them several seconds to arrive.


    With the strength of Heavenly Dao existences, several seconds was just too long.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Ever since his master and the rest left to pursue Fiend Ancestor, Qin Yun was waiting for the results. Regardless if the pursuit succeeded or failed, his master and the rest would inform the Three Realms.


    After all, if Fiend Ancestor remained alive, Qin Yun had to be especially careful when he entered the Chaos.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun, who was sitting cross-legged on a grass patch, sensed something and looked up.


    A will descended from afar and stopped above Mt. Lightning Roar. It condensed to form a black-robed, black-haired elder''s phantom, and it was none other than Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s embodiment.


    Qin Yun immediately got up. "Master."


    "An accident happened during our pursuit of Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus." Numinous Treasure wore a heavy expression.


    "Accident?" Qin Yun was alarmed.


    "Black Lotus''s three avatars fled in the three different directions," said Numinous Treasure. "Us Daoist Three Pure Ones joined forces to destroy his strongest destruction body and N¨¹wa killed his female body. Gautama and Amita joined forces for the male body! But little did we expect that¡­ at a critical point, a fourth avatar would fly out of the male body. The fourth avatar was extremely powerful, nearly matching the destruction body in strength. It was even more adept when it came to fleeing.


    "The two avatars did not have any wish to fend his enemies off; all he wanted was to flee! Gautama and Amita failed to stop him completely. They spared no expense to kill the Fiend Ancestor''s male body, but the fourth avatar managed to flee."


    Qin Yun could not help but ask, "How does Fiend Ancestor have a fourth avatar?"


    "According to our guesses," Numinous Treasure said, "Black Lotus had obtained a Lotus Seed of Fate from Zhurong. His real body¡­ was originally a black lotus born out of a Lotus Seed of Fate! As long as he wishes, he can use a Lotus Seed of Fate to produce another body. Back then, Black Lotus had split his real body into three¡ªthe female body, the male body, and the destruction body. And this new body he produced with the Lotus Seed of Fate is the best at escaping. It tore through space-time so extremely quickly that even Amita who had just broken through couldn''t catch up. Among us, only Elderly Lord''s speed could barely keep up."


    "Did he manage to catch up?" asked Qin Yun.


    "His body must have specially prepared to become a form meant for fleeing. It''s good at hiding his aura and tearing through the void. Furthermore, it can scatter his aura to confuse us," said Numinous Treasure. "As long as the distance is even a little far, we will not be able to sense his aura. Thankfully, Gautama spared no expenses to heavily injure him, sending his powers through the entire body. It will probably take him several years to completely dispel Gautama''s powers.


    "During this period, we will be able to sense his location.


    "However, he has already fled extremely far and his fleeing abilities are truly impressive. Gautama, Amita, and us met up together and are in pursuit," said Numinous Treasure. "If he is caught before he finishes dispelling Gautama''s powers, he''s doomed. But if he were to dispel Gautama''s powers first, he would truly succeed in fleeing."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Using a Lotus Seed of Fate to specially produce an avatar meant for escaping?


    The Fiend Ancestor had truly thought of every means possible in order to survive.


    "Don''t worry. We all have avatars left outside the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure. "He wouldn''t dare return. If he were to dare come close to the Three Realms, he would be falling into a trap."


    "Master, you must be careful when pursuing Fiend Ancestor''s fourth avatar. To survive, he will likely bore into perilous lands in the Chaos," said Qin Yun.


    "Haha¡­ The few of us have a lot more combat experience than you do." Numinous Treasure laughed. "Alright, if there''s anything in the future, you can find me in the Three Pure Hall in the Chaos."


    With that said, the embodiment Numinous Treasure sent down dissipated.


    It wasn''t only him; in fact, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor, Gautama, and company all sent news back to the Three Realms.


    ******


    Days passed one after another.


    The Three Realms continued changing and nearly every cultivator sensed the changes.


    "The decline of the Heavenly realm''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies can be considered slow, but the decline of the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the Small Worlds is still going quickly." Qin Yun stood in the vast cosmos and looked down into a Small World. "But compared to the cosmos, it''s completely not worth mentioning. The speed of decline of the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the cosmos is more than a hundred times faster. Today, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the cosmos has nearly all vanished. It has completely turned into a barren cultivation land.


    "As such, it will be impossible if Skyimmortals wish to travel through the cosmos."


    The cosmos were vast.


    Traveling was extremely troublesome, requiring the use of either Major Void Transference or the help of sacred lands like Green Touring Palace. To travel through the void based on one''s strength? It would only take more time.


    In the past, it was still possible to travel slowly, but from this day forth, with the cosmos not providing any Heaven and Earth spiritual energies for replenishment, those that dared to stay in the cosmos for too long would drain their Dharmic powers and end up starving to death!


    "The changes in the Three Realms are very complete. There''s not one wisp of Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in the cosmos," thought Qin Yun. "But this way, the burden the Three Realms has is indeed a lot lighter."


    Qin Yun traveled the Three Realms and observed the changes everywhere.


    The changes to the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were a holistic impact. The flora and fauna, and even humans¡­ had to adapt to the new environment.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun frowned slightly in the cosmos. He sensed the restrictions of the Three Realms as he thought, "Master had made a correct prediction. On the sixth day since they left the Three Realms, the limit to which the Three Realms can withstand is a perfected Golden Immortal. If one wants to reach the Heavenly Dao realm¡­ one has to leave the Three Realms and do the breakthrough in the Chaos. From then on, a Heavenly Dao realm existence will no longer be able to enter the Three Realms with their true bodies.


    In the past, Heavenly Dao realm existences were unable to enter Great Worlds with their true bodies.


    Now, it was extended to the entire Three Realms. Clearly, the Three Realms had lowered the limits to which it could bear.


    The lesser the burden, the more stable the Three Realms became.


    In the past, it only grew weaker while barely maintaining the status quo.


    ¡­


    "Hahaha, the Three Realms has changed! This world is now one that those old Heavenly Dao realm fogies can no longer enter." In a Great World, there was a fat creature covered in scales with a hundred short legs. However, its head had a gaping mouth. At that moment, in changed amid laughter into a young armor-wearing strongman. He looked up into the sky. "N¨¹wa, Three Pure Ones, all of them were just too ruthless. All I did was eat a little bit more, and they claim that I''m a sinful and deserve death. They were too powerful with lots of treasures. Like Primordial Unity, Gouchen, Houtu, Kong Xuan, Polestar, all of them perfected Great Dao realm existences stood on their side. I couldn''t offend them and could only bear with it.


    "Haha, but now that they have left, what''s there to be afraid without those old fogies?


    "The Three Realms is ultimately the oyster of us Chaos Godfiends." The young strongman laughed without inhibitions.


    ¡­


    "The Three Realms has completely changed."


    A massive coiled giant opened its eyes once again, causing the day to be ushered into the Great World.


    "Hmph, Without those Heavenly Dao realm existences, those Daoist and Buddhist juniors still wish to continue flaunting their prowess? The Heavenly Courts still wishes to be leader of the Three Realms? What a joke!" Torch Dragon''s massive body changed into a cold-looking, purple-robed man. "The rules of the Three Realms shall change too."


    ¡­


    Back when N¨¹wa, the Three Pure Ones, and Gautama shocked and awed the Three Realms, they decided on the order of the Three Realms and established the Heavenly Courts to rule over the Three Realms. All these ancient existences could only bow their heads and hide in Great Worlds because they could do nothing.


    And with Heavenly Dao realm existences unable to enter Great Worlds, to send Kong Xuan, Emperor Polestar, Goddess Houtu, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Unity, Amita, Lantern, Myriad Treasure, or Guangchengzi equipped with treasures to pursue them wasn''t realistic. After all, the perfected Great Dao experts had backers and were lords of Great Worlds. They stood on equal grounds with the Heavenly Dao realm existences, so who would be willing to do things that risked their lives?


    These ancient existences also didn''t dare to be too provocative. If they angered the Three Pure Ones and N¨¹wa, the outcome was something they could not bear to afford.


    Now, with them being forced to leave, the ancient existences that had been tolerating all this while naturally felt carefree. Some even wanted to seek revenge after holding it in for so long.


    "Now, we shall be the ones setting the rules of the Three Realms." These ancient existences began stirring.

 732 Alliance, Activated!

    In a towering hall in Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    Seated in the hall was a white-robed elder who waited leisurely.


    Suddenly, three wills descended into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, forming three embodiments. They were King of Myriad Fiends Boxun, God King Zhurong, and a cold-looking purple-robed man.


    "Haha, this must be Torch Dragon. The last time we met was when the demons'' Heavenly Courts ruled the Three Realms," Patriarch Blood Sea laughed and said. "In a blink of an eye, the Three Realms has changed drastically, and the Heavenly Dao realm existences have all been forced to leave the Three Realms."


    "I never expected you, Blood Sea, to become the owner of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss after Black Lotus left the Three Realms," said the purple-robed man. He was none other than Torch Dragon.


    "Boxun, you are the King of Myriad Fiends; yet, you failed to beat Blood Sea and take control of the fiends?" Zhurong quipped with a smile.


    Boxun smiled lightly in a very sloppy manner. "Blood Sea is obedient to Black Lotus and has fought the Three Realms for him¡­ As for me, I have been focused on cultivation. I couldn''t be bothered with Black Lotus, so it''s only normal that he handed the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss to Blood Sea."


    "I was also just a little luckier," said Patriarch Blood Sea humbly.


    "It benefits us fiends with it being Blood Sea," added Boxun. "Blood Sea has an undying body, and with the augmentation of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, his strength would be raised to the half-step Heavenly Dao realm! A person with many avatars and a half-step Heavenly Dao realm undying body¡­ is very beneficial to us fiends. I do have the Six Desires avatars, but in terms of undying means, I''m far inferior to Blood Sea. Even Qin Yun, who has 129,600 avatars¡­ is slightly weaker than Blood Sea when it comes to undying means."


    "Death is impossible unless the blood sea is destroyed." Zhurong nodded in agreement and said, "Blood Sea came from deep within the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss to begin with. Even a Heavenly Dao realm expert would not dare storm it. So, who can threaten Brother Blood Sea?"


    Patriarch Blood Sea smiled.


    In the past, his undying bodies allowed him to be unparalleled in the Three Realms. Even when sent out, he would condense an avatar. His strength was one of the weakest ones among the perfected Great Dao existences.


    But now, with the entire Tenebrous Fiend Abyss augmenting him, he had reached the half-step Heavenly Dao realm in one swift move, becoming one of the top few existences in the Three Realms. He was naturally feeling greatly spirited.


    "We came here to discuss how we will control the Three Realms!" Torch Dragon said.


    "Yes, yes. Let''s get down to business," said Blood Sea with a smile. "As long as the four of us combine forces, there will be hope for us taking the Three Realms."


    Torch Dragon said, "Before coming, Zhurong has already informed me! You fiends only need to occupy the original ten dominions. As for the remaining fifty dominions and the Heavenly realm, don''t involve yourself in them."


    "We wouldn''t involve ourselves. As long as we can preserve the fiends'' ten dominions, we would be satisfied," said Blood Sea with a faint smile.


    "Unfortunately, the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts are too greedy. They even wish to snatch the final ten dominions of us fiends," said Boxun with a frown. "In the Three Realms, I''m secretly controlling many mighty figure puppets. Qin Yun, Yang Jian, Maitreya have begun discussions. They plan to lead mighty figures on an attack of our fiendish dominions at any time.


    Zhurong laughed and said, "Ordinary mighty figures are nothing worth mentioning. In this struggle for the Three Realms, it is mainly determined by the perfected Great Dao existences. Especially the few half-step Heavenly Dao existences. Now, the already known half-step Heavenly Dao existences in the Three Realms, including those that have kept low profiles to cultivate¡­ number seven. They are the four of us, and Qin Yun, Hou Yi, and Ancestral Dragon."


    "Seven which are known," said Torch Dragon. "But who knows if other perfected Great Dao existences have broken through as well. I heard that the humans'' Three Sovereigns are each extraordinary. Kong Xuan and Houtu have accumulated extremely deep insights as well."


    "They don''t pose a huge threat at all," said Zhurong with a shake of his head. "If the four of us ally¡­ across the Three Realms, the only person who can be a threat to us is Hou Yi!"


    "Hou Yi?"


    Patriarch Blood Sea, Boxun, and Torch Dragon turned solemn.


    The might of Hou Yi when he burned his Essence Soul to deliver nine consecutive arrows was a terrifying thought.


    Not only was it strong, it was also unavoidable!


    In an ordinary skirmish, when one side attacked, the other side could defend, but when Hou Yi infused Heart Force into his arrows¡­ it was impossible to dodge. One could only defend using their bodies! For instance, Bohan Island Lord could only use his body to withstand the blow when Hou Yi delivered his Essence Soul-burning eighth and ninth arrows. Weapons could not touch the arrows, and if weapons could be used for the defense, he wouldn''t have died under Hou Yi''s hands.


    "You can leave Hou Yi to me," said Patriarch Blood Sea. "I have already secretly sent avatars to infiltrate the Effulgent Great World. I can descend the forces of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss onto the Effulgent Great World at any moment¡­ Hou Yi might be powerful, but his melee abilities are weak. I have an undying body, so I''ll be perfect against him."


    "You have to be careful. Ensure that he doesn''t join forces with Qin Yun. Once they do so, it will be trouble," said Boxun.


    "Hou Yi is in seclusion and hasn''t left the Effulgent Great World all this while," said Patriarch Blood Sea. "He might not even join in the Daoists'' and Buddhists'' assault of the ten fiendish dominions. He hasn''t shown interest in involving himself in the conflict of the Three Realms."


    "Alright."


    Torch Dragon nodded. "As long as he doesn''t involve himself, the four of us have a chance of killing Qin Yun together. We shall snatch his Misty Rain Sword! Even if Qin Yun has 129,600 avatars¡­ without his Misty Rain Sword, he is nothing but trash."


    "Let''s aim for a breakthrough." Boxun nodded. "Let''s finish Qin Yun first. Hou Yi would then¡­ be easily finished."


    "Without these two stumbling blocks, the Three Realms shall be ours," said Zhurong. He was the most eager person present. After all, he had once suffered from Hou Yi''s sneak attack. Back then, Hou Yi had burned his Essence Soul to deliver two arrows, scaring Zhurong away. After which, he even kept a very low profile in the Three Realms.


    This time, with Zhurong making the connections, the four formed an easy alliance.


    ******


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun sat across from the black-robed Ancestral Dragon.


    "The change in the Three Realms has forced the Heavenly Dao realm existences to leave. The Fiend Ancestor can no longer protect the fiendish dominions," said Qin Yun. "Yang Jian, Maitreya, and I have already discussed how to snatch the ten fiendish dominions back. Today, I''m inviting you here in the hopes that you can join us in this endeavor to snatch back the ten dominions, returning the Three Realms Heavenly Dao to every dominion in the Three Realms."


    "You are inviting me to help in this operation?" Ancestral Dragon felt some hesitation.


    Hou Yi couldn''t be bothered to join in the skirmish for the Three Realms because of his character.


    As for Ancestral Dragon, it was because of the dragons. Without absolute confidence, he did not wish to completely lose decorum with the fiends and invite disaster on the dragons.


    "Don''t worry. When we take back the ten fiendish dominions, I can make the decision to leave one of the dominions to the dragons. How about that?" Qin Yun said. As sect master of Green Touring Palace, he naturally enjoyed extremely high prestige. The carving of the territory in the Three Realms was also naturally determined by the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts.


    "A dominion?" Ancestral Dragon''s eyes lit up. At present, the dragons only occupied one dominion.


    The Three Realms no longer had any Heavenly Dao realm existences.


    With him at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage, his influence in the Three Realms had risen significantly. Just occupying a single dominion was indeed considered inadequate.


    After Ancestral Dragon thought of Qin Yun and Hou Yi, he immediately said with a smile, "Alright. The fiends have been cruel and evil. The countless lives in those ten dominions live as though they are in hell. To return the Three Realms Heavenly Dao to the ten dominions will be saving countless lives. Count me in on this."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    As for the other mighty figures of the dragon race? He wasn''t too concerned.


    Just having the Ancestral Dragon to help was sufficient! Ordinary mighty figures? The Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts had huge numbers of those.


    "Then it''s agreed upon," said Qin Yun with a smile. "We shall set off tomorrow to take back the fiendish dominions."


    "Alright, I''ll be deferring to you, Brother Qin Yun." Ancestral Dragon smiled. Of course, he would let the Daoists and Buddhists charge in first. All he needed to do was provide help.


    Soon.


    Ancestral Dragon left and Qin Yun sat alone in thought.


    He had wished to snatch back the ten fiendish dominions long ago. He wasn''t able to take action, but now, it was naturally time.


    "There''s no problems with the plan." Qin Yun thought over the plans repeatedly. It was a plan decided upon by the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts, and it was flawless.


    "Unfortunately, ever since the Three Realms experienced the changes, Hou Yi has entered seclusive cultivation," thought Qin Yun. "Without him exiting seclusion, it''s not my place to disturb him. However, our preparations are very adequate. We have a bunch of perfected Great Dao existences among the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts. Our strength has greatly increased¡­ so we are definitely confident we can succeed."

 733 Caught Up

    Qin Yun sat in meditation for an entire night.


    The battle for the fiendish dominions would lead to lasting effects! This would be the first time the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts would be battling the fiends after all the Heavenly Dao realm existences left the Three Realms. The outcome of this first battle would determine the situation of the Three Realms for an extended period of time, affecting all the lives in the Three Realms.


    "Victory is the only acceptable outcome for this battle," thought Qin Yun.


    At daybreak, when the Supreme Yang star once again appeared across the horizon, Qin Yun left Mt. Lightning Roar and headed for Green Touring Palace.


    ¡­


    In Green Touring Palace, all the mighty figures had already long gathered.


    Qin Yun appeared high above the hall.


    "Greetings, Sect Master." All the mighty figures bowed with Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain standing right in front.


    "Junior Sister Blackfoal Mountain," said Qin Yun solemnly. "In this battle against the fiendish dominions, we needed to be careful that the fiends do not counterattack the Heavenly realm! The heavy responsibility of guarding the key areas shall be left to you."


    "More than half of Green Touring Palace''s mighty figures are at my disposal. I''m confident enough if it just involves guarding the numerous key areas," she said with a smile. "Instead, Senior Brother Sect Master, you should be careful. The fiendish dominion is enveloped by the Fiendish Heavenly Dao. There, the fiends enjoy an absolute advantage. They have long set up defensive arrays. Besides, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao will be repressive against all of you, making it impossible to use the Heaven and Earth powers, so you will only be able to use a portion of your strength."


    "Yeah." Qin Yun nodded slightly. "Junior Sister Blackfoal Mountain, just wait to hear our good news."


    Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain nodded slightly.


    Qin Yun still relied greatly on Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain. After all, she was the only other perfected Great Dao in Green Touring Palace.


    "Let''s set off." Qin Yun immediately gave the order.


    ¡­


    In the cosmos.


    Experts from the three Daoist lineages, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts gathered and even the dragons'' Ancestral Dragon appeared. Of course, he came alone.


    "Haha, back then, Sword Immortal Qin suppressed the fiends by his strength alone. However, Fiend Ancestor''s obstruction made it impossible for Sword Immortal Qin to attack the fiendish dominions," said Maitreya with a chuckle. "Now with all of us gathered, I believe our flattening of the fiendish dominions shall be easy."


    By the side, Guan Yin, Kong Xuan, Emperor Polestar, Queen Mother, Yang Jian, Queen Mother, and Ancestral Dragon all laughed. The two hundred plus mighty figures behind them were filled with confidence.


    The amount of perfected Great Dao experts participating in this battle was only a partial number.


    For instance, the humans'' Three Sovereigns, Medicine Buddha, Burning Lamp, Myriad Treasure, Primordial Unity, Goddess Houtu, Guangchengzi, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, and the rest were responsible for staying behind to defend. After all, the various factions occupied many territories in the Three Realms. They had to be careful in case the fiends counterattacked these territories while they were attacking the fiends!


    Of course, the strongest¡ªthe two half-step Heavenly Dao realms¡ªSword Immortal Qin and Ancestral Dragon were participating as well.


    "We still have to be careful," said Qin Yun. "If cornered, the fiends might retaliate at the expense of their lives."


    "Everything shall go according to the plans. There will definitely not be any accidents," said Queen Mother with a smile.


    "Alright."


    Qin Yun nodded and said. "Then let''s set off!"


    Although the Daoists were considered to be split into three lineages, the Grand Supreme lineage did not have any perfected Great Dao disciples. The Jade Void lineage only had Yang Jian who had only recently broken through, so he was still quite a distance from the few half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences. Therefore, Qin Yun was temporarily made leader of the three Daoists lineages. The Buddhists were naturally led by the present Buddhist Ancestor, Maitreya. On the Heavenly Courts side, Queen Mother led the forces, but she greatly respected Emperor Polestar as well.


    "Whoosh."


    The mighty army set off towards the fiendish dominion.


    Their first target was the fiend dominion''s Wind Encasement Great World.


    ******


    At the moment Qin Yun led the army to battle against the fiendish dominions, in the distant Chaos, another harrowing battle was undergoing.


    "Black Lotus, you won''t escape!" the white-haired Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor shouted. A gigantic Taiji symbol appeared in the surrounding Chaos as Yin and Yang intermeshed together in a bid to bind the blurry escaping figure.


    "Grand Supreme, I''m unable to return to the Three Realms again. I won''t be a threat to it. Now that we have entered the Chaos, we should be focused on exploring this endless Chaos. Why is there a need to engage in fights? Speaking of which, we are all Heavenly Dao realm existences of the Three Realms. We should be supporting each other in this boundless Chaos. Not only are you not supporting me, you are even pursuing me. What''s the point?" the escaping figure voiced.


    "You are filled with immense sin. You are responsible for more than half of the sins in the Three Realms! You wish for this to be written off just because you left the Three Realms? Dream on!" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s voice sounded in Fiend Ancestor''s head.


    Both of them were extremely powerful and all it took was an instant for a voice transmission.


    At that moment, Black Lotus was feeling anxious as well.


    The Lotus Seed of Fate he obtained from Zhurong had been specially groomed to be a fourth avatar adept at escaping and hiding.


    However, in terms of escaping through space, this avatar was only better than the few Heavenly Dao realm experts, but not Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor!


    As the initial escape allowed him to go a great distance, he maintained quite a stable distance a few days ago, but today, he was about to be caught up.


    "In just a few days, Grand Supreme Elderly Lord has chased up to me. If he is able to hold me back, the other two members of the Three Pure Ones, as well as Gautama, N¨¹wa, and Amita will arrive," Fiend Ancestor burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers and shot out of the Taiji symbol''s influence as he continued traversing space-time.


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor similarly transversed space-time in pursuit. "You won''t escape."


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor was even faster when it came to transversing space-time.


    Even though Fiend Ancestor used a Dharmic formulation to split his aura to confuse him, it was only for a moment. Soon, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor quickly chased up to him.


    Both sides constantly threw attacks at each other.


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor mainly used divine power Dharma spells in a bid to stop him for a moment.


    However, every time Fiend Ancestor was about to be caught up to, he would immediately burn his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to flee desperately. Meanwhile, he would cast all sorts of mystic arts to obstruct Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor.


    "Pew." Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, Goddess N¨¹wa, Gautama, and Amita were slow as they tried their best to chase up.


    "Black Lotus is already being pestered by Elderly Lord. He won''t escape," said Numinous Treasure with a laugh.


    "But Elderly Lord isn''t able to stop him either. He''s able to escape each and every time," said Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning.


    N¨¹wa said, "Every time Black Lotus escapes Elderly Lord, it''s because he notices danger, so he burns his Essence Soul Dharmic powers in desperation. If he continues burning¡­ in less than half a month, his Essence Soul will be drained to its limit."


    "From the looks of it, we are finally going to be rid of the greatest fiend of the Three Realms," said Gautama with a smile.


    "Let''s let him struggle a little while longer," Numinous Treasure said with a sneer.


    ¡­


    In the Three Realms.


    Fiendish dominion, Wind Encasement Great World.


    This was the first Great World Qin Yun and company had chosen to attack.


    "Whoosh."


    Qin Yun and company traversed space-time and arrived obstreperously above the Wind Encasement Great World.


    "Oh?" Qin Yun swept the area and said in exclamation, "This Wind Encasement Great World doesn''t even have a fiendish mighty figure!? The number of Skyfiends are pathetically small."


    "Have they given up this Wind Encasement Great World?" Yang Jian said in puzzlement.


    "There''s no way they would abandon the ten fiendish Great Worlds, right?" Queen Mother said.


    "Perhaps they think it''s meaningless to defend, so they decided on abandoning it?" said Kong Xuan with a smile.


    By the side, Emperor Polestar closed his eyes and began carefully inferring.


    The others around him looked at him before he opened his eyes and frowned. "There''s indeed no danger in the Wind Encasement Great World, but I can infer that there''s massive danger in the fiendish dominion."


    "From the looks of it, the fiends have not decided on completely abandoning these territories," said Qin Yun with a smile. "It''s just that without sufficient strength, they have abandoned a few of the great worlds. We shall take back whichever Great Worlds they abandoned! Let''s first take back the Wind Encasement Great World completely."


    "Then, shall we set up the first World Transformation Array in the Wind Encasement Great World?" asked Maitreya.


    "Let''s begin." Qin Yun nodded.


    Queen Mother nodded to a bunch of mighty figures behind her.


    With the Third Prince, Nezha, leading twelve mighty figures, they immediately set up the array. They were in charge of the first World Transformation Array.


    To snatch back a Great World, one had to completely convert the Fiendish Heavenly Dao which was enveloping that Great World to that of the Three Realms Heavenly Dao! The transformation of Small Worlds was relatively simple, but the transformation of Great Worlds was more troublesome.


    The Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were more than prepared. All the array formations had been prepared ahead of time, so all that was needed to be done was set them up.


    In just ten minutes¡ª


    "Boom!"


    Nezha and the twelve mighty figures¡ªthree pinnacle mighty figures, nine ordinary mighty figures¡ªcontrolled the array formation together.


    A gigantic spatial vortex appeared in the sky as it connected to the Three Realms Heavenly Dao. As the Three Realms Heavenly Dao slowly seeped in, with the might of the array formation, it began to corrode and transform the surroundings. The Wind Encasement Great World was originally covered in fiendish auras, but forgiving and fresh Heaven and Earth spiritual energies began to enter through the spatial vortex and spread everywhere.


    The fiendish aura receded as the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies expanded.


    The entire world was gradually changing.


    "Let''s head to the next Great World," said Ancestral Dragon when he saw this.

 734 Both Sides

    The group of mighty figures immediately tore through space-time and headed for another Great World in the fiendish dominions.


    "Set up the array!"


    Maitreya instructed.


    Twelve Buddhist mighty figures acknowledged the order and headed to set up the World Transformation array.


    Queen Mother, Ancestral Dragon, Yang Jian, Maitreya, Queen Mother and the mighty figures were responsible for being nearby to watch over the process, and once the array formation was set up, they would immediately head for the next Great World.


    Once the array formation was set up successfully, they could use the array formation to seal the Great World''s space-time, preventing the enemy from arriving by void tunneling. Even if the fiends wanted to attack, they would have to fly in from outside the Great Dao of Space-time! The time it would take to normally fly in¡­ was enough time for Qin Yun and company to return to provide support. Besides, with the help of the array, the 12 mighty figures would be able to fend off even perfected Great Dao experts.


    "These Great Worlds have actually been abandoned by the fiends."


    "I thought they would leave behind some fiendish mighty figures to preside over the array formations and seal off space."


    "Unless the fiends join forces to resist, ordering a few fiendish mighty figures to defend the array formation is nothing but sending them to their deaths. Even if they seal off space-time, we can similarly fly in. In order to stall for time, sending a few mighty figures to their deaths is not something the fiends would do."


    "Even if Patriarch Blood Sea gave the order personally, few fiendish mighty figures would obey it when it''s simply sending themselves to their deaths."


    The Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts mighty figures were very relaxed as they chatted leisurely.


    "Among the ten Great Worlds, only the Six Desires Great World is unpredictable. The other Great Worlds do not even have a fiendish mighty figure," said Emperor Polestar with a laugh.


    "I can sense a group of old guys in the Six Desires Great World," said Ancestral Dragon. "Back when the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were around, these old guys were hiding away. Now, all of them have appeared, trying to join forces to test the rules the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor set up. God King Zhurong is similarly in the Six Desires Great World and standing among them."


    "Hmph." Queen Mother snorted coldly. "All of them go by the law of the jungle! They treat the countless weak as ants and slaughter them without thought, casually trampling and dominating them. Although Zhurong had been imprisoned by Goddess N¨¹wa for an extended period of time, he has not changed his character at all! Goddess N¨¹wa shouldn''t have been merciful back then. She should have killed Zhurong just like how she dealt with Gonggong.


    "Gonggong damaged Mt. Buzhou and deserved death for his sins," said Ancestral Dragon. "As for Zhurong, Goddess N¨¹wa gave him a chance due to her merciful nature."


    "Then, what do we do now?" Yang Jian inquired. "The fiends still have Zhurong and other ancient existences. Since they are gathered in the Six Desires Great World, I believe they will be using the terrain advantage and have set up powerful array formations as they await our entry."


    "There''s no rush for us to enter," said Guan Yin with a smile. "Let''s take it slow and continue occupying the other Great Worlds. As for the Six Desires Great World, we shall put it aside and let them feel the unease. Let''s see how long they can last."


    "Let''s make them feel unease first." Qin Yun also nodded in agreement.


    ¡­


    Inside the Six Desires Great World.


    The array formation had long been set up, and there was fiendish aura surging everywhere. A group of ancient existences were gathered here and leading them were Zhurong, Boxun, and Torch Dragon! The remaining ones were also perfected Great Dao existences.


    Most of these ancient Chaos Godfiends treated the weak as nothing but ants. Under the rule of the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor, some came under the Daoists and Buddhists and the neutral ones changed their character, but there were still many who remained unbridled. Some even went from neutral to worse. There were also some who put up with it due to the overall situation and acted! After the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor left, they revealed their true selves.


    "Zhurong, the Daoist and Buddhist mighty figures are converting the Great Worlds one after another at this moment. Nine Great Worlds have been set up with array formations, and they aren''t coming to the Six Desires Great World. Are we just going to wait here foolishly?" a young stout man draped in armor asked.


    "If I had a say, I''ll charge out directly and fight them. In the Six Desires Great World, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao blankets us¡­ but we do not cultivate in fiendish Dharmic formulations, and we can''t use the Heaven and Earth powers either," said another fat bald man.


    "All you know is killing." A charming woman curled her lips and scoffed. "We have an array formation here, raising our chances of victory by thirty percent. Besides, by being here, both us and the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts are unable to use the Heaven and Earth powers. However, Boxun is able to and his strength will greatly increase! That will increase the chances of victory by another twenty percent. This battle is for our future. How can we abandon such a huge advantage?"


    "Perhaps they might not come," said the fat bald man.


    "Old Venom, have some patience," said Taowu with a frown.


    Boxun, Zhurong, and Torch Dragon ignored them and only waited silently.


    Even they did not have the means to fully restrain these bunch of old guys. After all, their strength was only slightly weaker than theirs, but each of them grasped a perfected Great Dao and had various means.


    For instance, the Chaos Three Banes had lived to this day. Which of them was easy to deal with? Seven of the Ten Saints in the Universe from yesteryear were here as well. As for the other three, one of them was the lord of Yellowbeard World who had been killed by Qin Yun and Hou Yi. The other was Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus! Black Lotus kept a low profile early on. In terms of fame, he was inferior to Boxun, much less Zhurong and the rest. There was also Nine Neonate who wreaked havoc everywhere who also later died at Hou Yi''s hands. These Ten Saints in the Universe were not to be trifled with.


    There were also six who had reached the perfected Great Dao realm after all these years. They were also part of the lineup.


    Clearly, they were going to combine forces in the fight.


    If they didn''t do so now, they would be destroyed by Qin Yun and company later.


    These sixteen were only allies with Zhurong, Torch Dragon, and Boxun, and not true grunts. They were only together due to their common goals.


    ******


    Qin Yun and company watched as the Three Realms Heavenly Dao entered the Great Worlds thanks to the World Transformation Array. Gradually, the range it infiltrated expanded and soon, a third of this Great World had been occupied.


    "We have already waited for a day, but Zhurong and company continue remaining inside the Six Desires Great World," said Yang Jian. "Do we continue waiting?"


    "There are two choices," said Emperor Polestar. "One, we ignore them. We will occupy the other 59 Great Worlds in the Three Realms. The Six Desires will be left to them, but they will definitely find it unacceptable. Once we return, they will definitely find other opportunities, or even sneak an attack. The outcome will be hard to predict. The other choice is to seize this opportunity and storm them. But doing so will be dangerous. They have definitely set up an array formation in the Six Desires Great World. Furthermore, the Fiendish Heavenly Dao envelops that world. Boxun is there and is capable of using the Heaven and Earth powers. Yet, we won''t be able to draw upon them."


    Ancestral Dragon looked at Qin Yun. "Qin Yun, what''s your take?"


    Everyone present looked at Qin Yun. Be they experts from the Heavenly Courts or the Buddhists, all of them looked at Qin Yun because there were only two half-step Heavenly Dao realm experts present. One of them was Qin Yun and the other was Ancestral Dragon.


    Ancestral Dragon was only here to help and he was also asking Qin Yun.


    "Although the Fiendish Heavenly Dao envelops that world, allowing Boxun to produce his greatest strength, Zhurong and the rest are not fiendish cultivators. Likewise, they are unable to use the Heaven and Earth powers," said Qin Yun. "As for array formations? I will set up the Misty Rain Array to protect all of us. We will be undefeatable."


    "Undefeatable?" Queen Mother, Guan Yin, and the other mighty figures exchanged looks.


    With Qin Yun saying this, they were more inclined towards doing battle.


    "Make sure not to underestimate them," said Ancestral Dragon.


    "I''m confident I can protect all of us," said Qin Yun. He had the Intrinsic Flying Sword and had figured out the second perfected Great Dao, the Great Dao of Yin and Yang, so he was very confident when it came to defense. He was only lacking in confidence when it came to Hou Yi''s Essence Soul-burning ninth arrow. After all, that was capable of killing Bohan Island Lord''s avatar. But when it came to a one-on-one battle, no one in the Three Realms would allow Hou Yi to shoot nine arrows consecutively.


    "The Daoist-Fiend war has gone on for tens of thousands of years. I''ve spent a lot of effort on my offensive means," thought Qin Yun as his eyes were filled with a cold glimmer. "I''ll take this opportunity to set up the rules in the Three Realms."


    It was best if he could get rid of those baneful fiends.


    "Alright! I agree as well. Let''s storm the Six Desires Great World," said Ancestral Dragon. He was a half-step Heavenly Dao realm of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage. He was naturally unafraid of anyone.


    "I''m agreeable as well." Yang Jian was burning with fighting spirit. As an expert who had pushed his Eight-Nine Arcane Art to a pinnacle state, he was in search of an opportunity to prove himself.


    "In that case, let''s set up to rid of those fiends," said Maitreya with a smile.


    Soon.


    The Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts tore through space-time and arrived inside the Six Desires Great World.


    "They actually didn''t seal space-time."


    "They probably left it open deliberately to let us in."


    Qin Yun and company arrived deep inside the Six Desires Great World and moments after entering, they felt the sealing of space-time. If they wished to leave again, they needed to slowly fly out.


    "What rich fiendish aura." Guan Yin frowned slightly.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly. "The Six Desires Great World''s fiendish aura far exceeded what it was in the past. It likely had to do with the present lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Patriarch Blood Sea''s, sending of immense amount of fiendish aura to envelop the world. It made this place a sacred land for fiendish cultivators. With Boxun here, he could produce strength that was much higher than usual.


    "Hahaha¡­ You bunch of Daoists and bald donkeys sure are brave. I thought you would deliberately wait for a year or so outside."


    "Old Venom, you have belittled them. They still have the guts to enter."


    Accompanied by this cheery conversation, a massive black cloud flew over from afar. Standing on it were a bunch of figures.


    Qin Yun and company looked carefully.


    Leading them was Zhurong, Boxun, and a cold-looking purple-robed man. There were also sixteen perfected Great Dao experts by their side. All of them had different auras.


    "Perhaps more than half the perfected Great Dao existences in the Three Realms are gathered here," said Ancestral Dragon and Qin Yun with a laugh.


    "Who''s that purple-robed man?" Qin Yun asked via a voice transmission.


    "It''s Torch Dragon, but he has changed tremendously. In the past, his aura was domineering and oppressive, but it''s a lot more converged now," replied Ancestral Dragon via a voice transmission.


    "You call this converged?" Qin Yun was surprised. He only felt that Torch Dragon was extremely arrogant and his aura was a little cold.


    "That''s because you haven''t seen his past form. In the past, he was truly one to reign supreme," replied Ancestral Dragon.


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Among the Chaos Godfiends in the distance, Zhurong stood front and center. His fiery hair was disheveled as he swept his gaze across Qin Yun and company. He smiled and said, "Today, we aren''t here hoping to fight and kill. We just wish to bring our blessings onto all life in the Three Realms."

 735 One Against Many

    "You don''t wish for fighting and killing and wish to bring blessings to all life?" Qin Yun and company were surprised upon hearing that. These ancient Chaos Godfiends wanted to bring blessings to all life?


    Zhurong looked at the mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts and chuckled. "If we were to really fight, war will spread throughout the Three Realms. Countless will die in the Three Realms, but if we were to have a ceasefire, the Three Realms will be at peace. This will only shower blessings onto the Three Realms."


    Queen Mother, Maitreya, Yang Jian, Guan Yin, Queen Mother, and company exchanged looks.


    "You wish to negotiate a truce?" said Maitreya. "Can all of you promise not to slaughter the countless weak casually?"


    "Tigers need to eat meat, cats need to eat rats. The law of the jungle is the Heavenly Dao!" Zhurong said. "We have longed attained a perfected Great Dao, making us the strongest beings in the Three Realms. It''s a joke if we were to be made equal to the weak, right?"


    Maitreya smiled. "God King Zhurong, we are not requesting you be on equal standing with the weak. We just wish for you to pity the weak. Just one mouthful of yours, and millions of lives¡­"


    "Any amount of meat a tiger eats is a lot more than what a human eats. Isn''t it normal that we Chaos Godfiend eat more?" Zhurong said. "There are countless lives in the Three Realms. The speed at which we eat isn''t as fast as they reproduce! What''s there to be afraid of? Letting their proliferation go unchecked would only add burden to the Three Realms. We might as well help by eating them. By doing so, we are lessening the burden of the Three Realms. We are helping the Three Realms by providing nothing but benefit."


    "Preposterous!"


    Qin Yun bellowed coldly. "A world''s land is limited. The number of lives it can support is limited as well. They will not be able to reproduce without end! They will also work hard and cultivate, producing talent and cultivators! Even I, Qin Yun, started off as a mortal cultivator. As for all of you, by using the reason of law of the jungle, you devour with impunity. The Heavenly Dao has long made restricts that cultivators are forbidden from slaughtering mortals to stop you from such actions. But just because all of you are powerful, you continue to do evil, unafraid of Negative Karma Fire¡­ The Heavenly Dao can''t stop you, but we will rid of you."


    "Haha, Sword Immortal Qin, you won''t be able to kill us," said Zhurong with a laugh. "Back when you killed the Lord of the Yellowbeard World, you had went to a great deal of effort to ally with Hou Yi, right? With so many of us perfected Great Dao existences here, we will be much harder to kill than him."


    "Is that so?" Qin Yun''s eyes flashed coldly. "We can always give it a try."


    "Don''t be mad. If we were to really fight, it would bring disaster to the Three Realms," said Zhurong with a laugh. "Why don''t you listen to our conditions?"


    Qin Yun grunted.


    By the side, Maitreya said, "God King Zhurong, why don''t you share your terms with us?"


    Zhurong looked to his side and then at the mighty figures on Qin Yun''s side before smiling. "On our side, there''s me, Boxun, Torch Dragon, and the present lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Blood Sea. Together we have four half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences. In terms of half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences, there are seven in the Three Realms at present. We have four on our side. Furthermore, we still have sixteen other perfected Great Dao existences¡­"


    Qin Yun and company listened.


    "In terms of half-step Heavenly Dao realm and perfected Great Dao existences¡­ my side probably covers about half of the Three Realms," Zhurong said with a smile. "In that case, we should occupy thirty of the dominions in the Three Realms. Isn''t that how it should be?"


    "Occupy half?" Yang Jian sneered. "The Three Realms are now ruled by the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts. Are you implying we give up half of the dominions to you?"


    "The present Three Realms isn''t fully ruled by you," said Zhurong. "For instance, the Chaos Three Banes, the Seven Saints in the Universe, they are all lords of Great Worlds. They only permit your preaching in those worlds to give you Daoists and Buddhists face. But in fact, they are the lords of their Great Worlds. My present proposal of occupying half of the dominions is only reasonable."


    "Face?" Kong Xuan said in return, "It''s because they couldn''t stop it back when the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor were in the Three Realms."


    "They have already left the Three Realms," said Zhurong. "I''m saying all this for all lives in the Three Realms. We have planned it out. The dominions in the Three Realms shall be split into half by both sides. That will remove the need for war! Furthermore, we can also promise that the number in lives in our dominions will not be less than eighty percent of your dominions. That way, you don''t have to worry that we will go overboard in our slaughtering."


    The reproduction of life was fast to begin with.


    If they reined in their scourge on life, that would be sufficient.


    In fact¡­


    These Chaos Godfiends would still be very pleased if they came to an agreement with Qin Yun and company. After all, if Sword Immortal Qin allied with Hou Yi, it would leave them in extreme fear. They were also taking this chance now to face Qin Yun while Hou Yi wasn''t around. This bolstered their confidence.


    "Let half the lives in the dominions of the Three Realms be lamb for your slaughter?" Qin Yun sneered. "That''s sure a nice dream of yours."


    "God King Zhurong, you haven''t changed despite being imprisoned by Goddess N¨¹wa for so long." Guan Yin shook her head as well.


    "It''s impossible for us to agree," said Emperor Polestar as well.


    "Impossible?"


    Zhurong said, "Then, do you truly want to cause an even more intense Daoist-Fiend war?"


    Boxun, Torch Dragon, and the other sixteen perfected Great Dao existences all looked at Qin Yun.


    "That''s what I should be asking you," said Qin Yun calmly. "Are you prepared to be killed like Patriarch Spirit Devouring and Elder Yellowbeard?"


    Many of the ancient existences had slight changes in expression when they heard that.


    This Sword Immortal Qin¡­ was truly filled with killing intent.


    "Zhurong." The purple-robed Torch Dragon frowned. "Since words don''t work with them, let''s begin. Make the entire Three Realms become ours."


    "That''s reasonable. It''s better to kill them all," said Boxun as his aura rose abruptly.


    "Boom!!!"


    The terrifying array that they had spared no expenses to set up erupted. Strange auras began to emanate as countless phantoms appeared.


    There were endless delicacies and ambrosia, the best food and wine one could imagined, all sorts of beauties, unforgettable childhood loves, the ideal lovers they were infatuated with, the charming woman they would occasionally chance upon¡­


    There were the difficulties of the cultivation path, the euphoria from obtaining a Dharmic formulation, the joy of slaying fiendish demons¡­


    Money, jewelry, gems, natural treasures, Connate Numinous treasures¡­ All sorts of precious treasures appeared.


    The triggering of a mental demon to cause chaotic Dharmic powers. Enemies attacking, pushing them into perilous situations¡­ All sorts of death approached, with survival being the only thought in the face of death.


    Seated at the throne of an emperor, seeing countless people prostrate towards them. Becoming a patriarch of a sect, seeing countless cultivators prostrate before them. Whatever said became reality as the world bent before them. How much immense power was this?


    The master who did his best to groom you, life-and-death brothers, parents at home, the running children and the wife who smiled at you while she continued weaving clothes.


    "No! No¡ª"


    "Master."


    "I can''t accept it, I really can''t accept it. So what if I''ve become Buddha, so what if I gain eternal life?"


    Invisible auras spread everywhere.


    Instantly, Qin Yun and the many mighty figures were influenced, especially the ordinary mighty figures. Some were wailing, while others were in a frenzy, looking like they would lose themselves at any moment. Even perfected Great Dao existences felt the influence, but they did their best to resist it.


    "Recite the Clear Minded Chant." Guan Yin sat cross-legged and said. The Buddhist mighty figures who could maintain their clarity of mind immediately began chanting, but the ordinary mighty figures were unable to control themselves.


    "Set."


    Qin Yun had the easiest time of those present.


    When he experienced the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation, his Essence Soul had suffered immense torture before he experienced a qualitative change and gained the ability to split into 129,600 avatars. Now, he had the strongest Essence Soul in the Three Realms. The invisible aura''s influence on Qin Yun was minute with his Essence Soul''s resistance. It made Qin Yun recall his youth, Chen Shuang, his friends from his younger days, and his master, Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor, who had left the Three Realms¡­


    Although these thoughts were evoked, Qin Yun''s Essence Soul remained calm and his strength was unaffected.


    Upon seeing this scene, with a thought from Qin Yun, the might of the Misty Rain Array erupted.


    "Hum¡ª"


    The array formation enveloped their surroundings, protecting the numerous mighty figures as it shielded them from the infiltration of that mysterious aura.


    "It''s useless. An array formation can''t withstand my Seven Emotions and Six Desires Great Dao." Boxun laughed with extreme confidence.


    But soon, his expression changed.


    He saw the blurry Misty Rain Array envelop the area and, although the Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura was able to barely penetrate the Misty Rain Array, it was weakened to less than ten percent of its original strength. With so little of the aura penetrating, even the ordinary mighty figures began to open their eyes and return to normal.


    "What a terrifying King of Myriad Fiends."


    "Boxun lives up to his name of being able to wreak havoc on the Buddhists with his powers alone. Many Buddhas fear him. He''s truly terrifying when he casts his Seven Emotions and Six Desires Great Dao."


    The mighty figures who returned to normal felt a lingering fear.


    Ordinary mighty figures were completely powerless against Boxun.


    "This Boxun has long figured out the Six Desires Great Dao. It seems like you recently figured out the Seven Emotions Great Dao in recent years," said Guan Yin seriously. "The combination of two perfected Great Dao forms the Dao of Seven Emotions and Six Desires¡­ In terms of its might, it''s far stronger than what it was in the past. Even us perfected Great Dao existences can only use thirty to forty percent of our strength in front of him."


    "He was the leader of the fiends once upon a time, someone who fought Buddhist Ancestor Gautama for an extremely long period of time. After Gautama broke through, he entered dormancy and seldom takes action," added Emperor Polestar. "With his qualifications, the Three Realms believed that he''s a half-step Heavenly Dao realm. Now, it''s as expected. Furthermore, he even figured out the Seven Emotions Great Dao which synergizes very well with the Six Desires Great Dao."


    "Your Misty Rain Array is actually able to fend off my Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura?" Boxun looked at Qin Yun in disbelief.


    The Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura was extremely mysterious.


    Typical array formations and domains were unable to fend it off.


    Boxun did not know that Qin Yun similarly had insight into two perfected Great Dao. The Great Dao of Yin and Yang and the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man synergized well, and casting the Misty Rain Sword with the two combined only made the Misty Rain Array even more perfect!


    "Why? Did you really think your Seven Emotions and Six Desires Dao is invincible?" Qin Yun scoffed.


    "Hahaha¡­"


    Boxun laughed. "As expected of Sword Immortal Qin. You do have some means up your sleeve. But now, all of you do not dare exit the Misty Rain Array, so how are you to fight us? Do you mighty figures dare to let your Dharmic powers go outside the Misty Rain Array? Once it touches my Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura, the strength will be greatly reduced, causing you to risk losing yourselves."


    The hundred plus mighty figures behind Qin Yun had slight changes in expression.


    Each portion of Essence Soul Dharmic powers was a part of the Essence Soul. It would be a truly terrifying outcome for them once their Dharmic powers were tainted by the Seven Emotions and Six Desires auras.


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said Queen Mother. "This Boxun managed to influence the Buddhists by his powers alone back then. Now, he has become more powerful. Our mighty figures present¡­ even those at the perfected Great Dao realm, would only have thirty to forty percent of our strength once our Dharmic powers touch the Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura. We won''t be able to help much."


    Qin Yun swept them with a gaze.


    Previously, many of these mighty figures had all sorts of means, such as setting up arrays or trapping foes. Now, only a few could be of help.


    "Qin Yun, you have no right to rule over the Three Realms just with the Misty Rain Array''s protection," said Boxun with a laugh. "If you wish to defeat the enemy, you still need to rely on powerful offensive means. Feel free to attack us with all those mighty figures you have. If all of you combined can deal with me and defeat me, I''d be impressed."


    "Hahaha, Brother Boxun can deal with all you mighty figures alone. I doubt all of you can win."


    "You wish to rule over the Three Realms with that bit of strength? What a joke."


    With Boxun by their side, they were filled with confidence.

 736 Qin Yun Takes Action

    The mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were fuming and anxious, but it was true that the King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun, was just too terrifying.


    "Boxun, I do want to see how capable you are!" Yang Jian roared angry as raised his three-pointed, doubled-edged lance, on the brink of rushing out.


    "No rush."


    Ancestral Dragon raised his hand to stop him.


    Yang Jian looked at him and said, "Ancestral Dragon, Boxun can''t do a thing to me."


    "Both of us cultivated in the Physical Establishing Sage lineage. I know of your means, but you have only recently broken through to the perfected Great Dao realm," Ancestral Dragon said. "This battle will decide the future of the Three Realms. Boxun, Zhurong, and company will not operate according to the rules of fighting one-on-one in a fair and square manner. They will seize any opportunity and do something unscrupulous. They have all cultivated for long periods of time, reaching the half-step Heavenly Dao realm. If they join forces to plot against you, we might not be able to save you in time."


    Yang Jian hesitated.


    Ancestral Dragon was right. Although the Physical Establishing Sage lineage had extremely strong combat strength and life-preservation means, he had little confidence if Zhurong, Torch Dragon, and company did something unscrupulous.


    "Let me have a try at their means," said Ancestral Dragon with a smile. Then, he looked at Qin Yun and said, "Brother Qin Yun, please watch my back."


    "Alright." Qin Yun nodded.


    Swoosh.


    Ancestral Dragon directly flew out of the Misty Rain Array and stood in midair, facing Boxun and the ancient existences before roaring with laughter. "Boxun, I won''t be bullying you either. Let''s go one-on-one and let me see how capable you are."


    "Hmph!"


    Boxun grunted coldly.


    Without the Misty Rain Array''s obstruction, rich Seven Emotions and Six Desires auras fully infiltrated the Ancestral Dragon''s body. Ancestral Dragon was one of the best in the Three Realms when it came to the cultivation of the mind. The Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura¡­ only made him divert thirty percent of his attention to resistance. As a member of the Physical Establishing Sage lineage, he engaged in close combat, so he only needed a little of his attention to produce all the strength of his body anyway.


    "Your Seven Emotions and Six Desires aura can only be used to scare these little guys," said Ancestral Dragon with a smile.


    "Go."


    Boxun sent avatars flying out. The Seven Emotions avatars and Six Desires avatars made for a total of thirteen avatars that fused into one forming a six-armed warrior draped in red armor.


    "This is my Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar''s first fight with an enemy. Why don''t you test its might?" Boxun was rather confident.


    Qin Yun, Yang Jian, Kong Xuan, and company watched from afar.


    Kong Xuan commented, "In the past, Boxun condensed his Six Desires avatars, and these desires contain immense power. The avatars representing the desires for Greed, Lust, Passion, Survival, Pleasure, and Mind are extremely powerful. When fused together, the resulting being is celebrated for its strength. Now, with the addition of this Seven Emotions avatars¡­ It''s strength would probably be even more frightening now that they have all fused as one."


    "To grasp the Seven Emotions and Six Desires and be good at close combat, this Boxun does has impressive means." Qin Yun nodded.


    "Boom!"


    Far away in midair, Ancestral Dragon''s body had phased away, conjuring his true body.


    A gigantic dragon''s long, winding body flew in the sky before facing the armored six-armed warrior. As the dragon flew, it flicked its tail, renting the world asunder. A terrifying might swept towards the Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar.


    With a bang, the six-armed warrior managed to withstand the blow, only retreating slightly.


    As the dragon flew, it swiped its claws in a way that looked very direct, but contained profound mysteries. Even an ordinary perfected Great Dao existence would have to flee when facing such an attack for they wouldn''t dare take it head on.


    "Hmph." However, the six-armed warrior showed no fear. Each of his arms wielded a weapon¡ªsaber, sword, hammer, ax, whip, and spear. Instantly either the hammer or ax slammed or cleaved down heavily, or the saber and sword did an ingenuous block. The attack was fully parried.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Both sides began to engage in battle.


    The Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar was extremely strong and its melee combat arts were impressive. As for Ancestral Dragon, he was one of the best in the Three Realms when it came to close combat.


    "It''s actually a tie." Zhurong frowned slightly. "Boxun, you have the advantage of an array formation, and you can use the Heaven and Earth powers¡­ Yet, you are only his equal in battle."


    Boxun wore a nasty expression as well. He never expected to not attain an easy victory with his first use of the Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar which he was very confident with despite having the advantage of the array formation and ability to use the Heaven and Earth powers.


    "Back when the Dao Ancestors and company were around, this old dragon kept a very low profile. Who knew that he has cultivated to such a realm," Boxun said solemnly.


    "He has the strongest body beneath the Heavenly Dao realm anyway," Torch Dragon said leisurely.


    Boxun''s expression turned more sullen. "I thought that with his inability to use the Heaven and Earth powers, he would only be able to use fifty percent of his maximum power, allowing me to defeat him. I''ve underestimated him."


    "Let me help you," Torch Dragon said.


    Whoosh¡ª


    A strange fluctuation instantly permeated everywhere and as it lingered around, causing Ancestral Dragon, who was embroiled in battle, to feel like he had fallen into a marsh. He felt like invisible ropes were tugging at him and, despite trying to resist, the ropes were untouchable. It was very uncomfortable akin to the feeling of how a mortal felt when dropped into water.


    "What domain is this?" Ancestral Dragon''s expression changed. The strange domain was so strong that he could only produce fifty to sixty percent of his strength.


    "They''ve really resorted to unscrupulous means." From afar, Yang Jian''s expression changed.


    "Domain?"


    Kong Xuan frowned and immediately released his Five-colored Divine Light domain.


    The moment it was released, it made contact with the strange fluctuations domain and was completely suppressed.


    "There''s a domain stronger than mine in the Three Realms?" Kong Xuan was alarmed.


    The purple-robed man, Torch Dragon, faintly smiled as he glanced at Kong Xuan. In his eyes, Kong Xuan was just a junior. Back when he reigned supreme in the Chaos, Kong Xuan wasn''t even born!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Without being able to utilize the Heaven and Earth powers to begin with, the addition of the suppression of Torch Dragon''s domain left Ancestral Dragon completely at a disadvantage against the Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar.


    "Brother Ancestral Dragon, be careful." Qin Yun immediately expanded the range of the Misty Rain Array.


    Ancestral Dragon''s body was strong, having only suffered minor injuries when taking on dozens of the Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar''s attacks. With a surge backwards, he returned inside the Misty Rain Array.


    "This Torch Dragon''s domain is stronger than it was previously." Ancestral Dragon escaped in quite a pathetic state as he said to Qin Yun, Yang Jian, and the other mighty figures. "Perfected Great Dao experts can probably only use thirty to forty percent of their might under his domain. If it''s a pinnacle Great Dao expert or ordinary mighty figure? Giving up any resistance is the only outcome."


    "That powerful?" Maitreya and company said in astonishment.


    "Yes," Ancestral Dragon said solemnly. "I can sense that his domain has perfectly fused the Great Dao of Yin and Yang and the Great Dao of the Four Seasons Cycle into one. The domain not only influences the void, it also influences time. It''s extremely uncomfortable to be suppressed by this domain."


    "It influences space and time?" The mighty figures were alarmed.


    Such a terrifying domain left them alarmed.


    "If this were elsewhere, somewhere we could use the Heaven and Earth powers, I would be able to fight Boxun even with the domain''s suppression," Ancestral Dragon said, "but this is the fiend''s Great World¡­ I have no means. Qin Yun, we are too much at a disadvantage in this Great World. They hold a terrain advantage. If there''s really no solution, let''s make a retreat now."


    Everyone present looked at Qin Yun.


    They only had two half-step Heavenly Dao realm experts on their side. Since Ancestral Dragon was no match for their opponents, there was only Sword Immortal Qin left.


    "My Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar is right there. Yet, none of you mighty figures from the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts are stepping up to take down this one avatar. How are you to rule to the Three Realms?" Boxun laughed.


    "Boxun, try one of my attacks," Qin Yun said.


    "Oh? Sword Immortal Qin?" Boxun chuckled. "Ancestral Dragon could do nothing to me. All that''s left is you, Sword Immortal Qin. Go ahead. Let''s not talk about one attack. Even if its a thousand or ten thousand attacks, I can easily withstand it."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    With a thought, countless sword beams flew out from the Misty Rain Sword, gathering into a terrifying sword beam tornado. Although it looked chaotic, the countless sword beams were, in fact, following a particular order. Each sword beam was a part of an array formation, and with countless sword beams amassed together, it formed a mobile sword array! It had fused the Great Dao of Yin and Yang, the Great Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Man, as well as parts of the profound mysteries found in Pangu''s bloodline within.


    Moments after the sword beam tornado was formed, it caused the Great World''s membrane walls to quake and shatter.


    "This might?" Boxun, Torch Dragon, Zhurong, as well as the sixteen perfected Great Dao existences behind them had a change in expression. The sword beam tornado was already this terrifying just when being formed?


    "Suppress!" Torch Dragon released his domain in a bid to suppress the tornado.


    However, the sword beam tornado was too violent.


    Torch Dragon''s domain did little to influence its might.


    "Let me see how strong it is." Boxun''s Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar did not dodge. With his advantages of being augmented by the array formation and his ability to use the Heaven and Earth powers, as well as Torch Dragon''s domain helping him, he would be embarrassed if he needed to dodge.


    "Destroy." The red-armored six-armed warrior charged head on.


    However, the sword beam tornado came rumbling forward.


    The moment they clashed¡ª


    Under the terrifying sword beam tornado, the six-armed warrior was instantly reduced to fragments. The sword beam tornado continued sweeping towards Boxun, Zhurong, Torch Dragon, and the other sixteen perfected Great Dao experts with its terrifying might.


    "It didn''t even manage to survive a single hit?" Zhurong and company were astounded.

 737 How Is He This Strong?

    "This strike is nearly at the might of the Heavenly Dao realm!" Boxun''s expression turned nasty as he immediately sent a voice transmission.


    "What?"


    "He is unable to use the Heaven and Earth powers in a fiendish Great World, yet he can produce strength nearly at the Heavenly Dao realm?"


    "How is he this strong? This Qin Yun hasn''t even ignited his Essence Soul Dharmic powers!"


    "Isn''t it said that Qin Yun is only good at his defensive sword array?"


    The ancient existences were somewhat astounded.


    They could tell at a glance that Qin Yun didn''t ignite his Essence Soul Dharmic powers. It was just a normal attack!


    And in the entire Three Realms, among the experts under the Heavenly Dao realm, only Hou Yi''s ninth arrow of his nine successive arrows was capable of reaching the Heavenly Dao realm''s might without the burning of Essence Soul Dharmic powers. Even if other experts were to burn their Essence Soul Dharmic powers, they would still fall short of the Heavenly Dao realm. That was why Hou Yi''s arrow was famous for being terrifying. Furthermore, Qin Yun''s offensive means in the past were not considered powerful.


    He needed centuries just to drain away at Patriarch Spirit Devouring.


    And now, a normal attack of Qin Yun''s was probably at the might of the Heavenly Dao realm without roping in the Heaven and Earth powers of the surroundings.


    "Let me try it." Zhurong''s fiery-red hair flailed as his aura rose tremendously. He went forward and threw out a punch.


    His fist was extremely fast like a meteor and it came with scorching flames.


    He punched out!


    Everything before it would be reduced to smithereens!


    "Boom!"


    The punch directly struck the surging sword beam tornado. Accompanied with a terrifying boom, the sword beam tornado was decimated. However, Zhurong looked at Qin Yun with a slight change in expression.


    "As expected of God King Zhurong." Inside the Misty Rain Array, Qin Yun smiled. "You actually have the might of the Heavenly Dao realm with a Essence Soul-burning strike! In the Three Realms, apart from Brother Hou Yi and I, you are one of the few who can produce strength at the Heavenly Dao realm."


    "Hmph." Zhurong''s expression was ice-cold.


    Who was he?


    He was God King Zhurong who had once reigned supreme for a generation! He had made Ancestral Dragon shrink back and defeated Gonggong.


    His body was extremely powerful. Back when Hou Yi burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to deliver one shot, although it did scare the just-released Zhurong, causing him to flee immediately, it would still have taken a few more arrow strikes to kill him. The strength of his body¡­ was only second to that of Ancestral Dragon, and not by much. Furthermore, the strength of his body was not what he was best at.


    He was best at using fire! In the early stages of the Three Realms, he was the most terrifying existence when it came to offensive attacks!


    After being sealed for an extensive period of time, he had been cultivating all this while, gaining an increase in his strength. He also had the Torch Flame Kindling to study¡­ Although he had not fully understood it, he had drawn some of its profound charms from it and strengthened his attacks.


    By burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers, he could produce strength at the Heavenly Dao realm!


    "I never expected that after all these years, the juniors would produce Hou Yi and now you, Qin Yun," Zhurong said coldly. "However, us old guys aren''t that easy to deal with. That punch just now was only my first attack. Try taking a few more of them."


    Boom!


    Zhurong''s body phased as he transformed into a towering fiery god that seemed more blinding than the Supreme Yang star.


    "Qin Yun, be careful. In terms of offensive attacks, Zhurong was number one in the Three Realms in the past. Like me, Boxun, Amita, including Gonggong, have figured out two perfected Great Dao. However, Zhurong''s two perfected Great Dao are fire-related. Now, he has studied your human''s Suirenshi''s Inextinguishable Torch Flame, which is also a fire-related perfected Great Dao. With him focusing on fire, it will only make his moves more terrifying," Ancestral Dragon warned.


    "I understand." Qin Yun nodded.


    All the mighty figures had their own paths.


    Zhurong was considered very dedicated. All he did was cultivate in fire-related Dao! Connate Divine Dire, Supreme Yang Divine Fire, and now, he had reaped some benefits studying the Inextinguishable Torch Flame.


    Qin Yun had a premonition that if Zhurong were to fully comprehend the Inextinguishable Torch Flame, the three fire-related perfected Great Dao would probably lead to a new Heavenly Dao realm.


    Even now, Zhurong''s offensive means were still terrifying.


    "Boom!"


    The towering fiery god just took one step before he punched out, causing space to distort.


    The arm was like a heavenly column, and the fist was as huge as a mountain.


    The punch struck the Misty Rain Array.


    "Chi! Chi! Chi!"


    The terrifying impact was only secondary; what was terrifying were the flames!


    The flames seemed to be capable of incinerating everything! Furthermore, it''s terrifying destructive power infiltrated the Misty Rain Array in a bid to destroy everything.


    "Incineration, Destruction, Explosion, Penetration, Ceaseless Rekindling¡­" Qin Yun sensed the terrifying might of the flame. A pure flame at the Heavenly Dao realm was a lot more terrifying than the fire from the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation. However, the Misty Rain Array remained stable. Despite the fire burning on the surface, it failed to penetrate any deeper.


    "Open up! Crack!"


    Zhurong was abnormally wild.


    Every strike was enough to shake the land as though a Supreme Yang star had been thrown and smashed over! It was so mighty that Zhurong was able to reign supreme in the Three Realms back then.


    However, Qin Yun''s Misty Rain Array held fast, fully withstanding the attack.


    "How terrifying!"


    "Zhurong is very terrifying, but Sword Immortal Qin is even more unfathomable." The mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were all astonished from the scene.


    Guan Yin smiled and said, "A normal attack of Sword Immortal Qin is already at the Heavenly Dao realm''s might if he can use the Heaven and Earth powers. Such strength is far greater than Zhurong''s."


    Everyone around her nodded in agreement.


    Qin Yun''s potency left them delighted. After all, they knew the way he did things very well.


    "Don''t drag this out any further. Everyone, attack!" Zhurong bellowed via a voice transmission. "Join forces to crack the Misty Rain Array and snatch the Misty Rain Sword!"


    "Together."


    "Time to take action."


    It was already at a point of no return, like an arrow on a bowstring!


    Zhurong, Boxun, Torch Dragon, and the other sixteen perfected Great Dao experts long had a plan. They were to rid of Qin Yun first! They would then deal with Hou Yi subsequently!


    Although Hou Yi''s offensive means were terrifying, his defensive means were indeed weaker. Compared to Qin Yun, killing Hou Yi was a lot easier. Therefore, they were confident of accomplishing that by joining forces. But now, with Hou Yi in seclusion, he definitely had cave abode array formations to aid him in his own territory. As long as he didn''t leave, it was impossible to directly attack him.


    Since Qin Yun had come storming the fiendish dominion''s Great Worlds, they held the terrain advantage and could use the opportunity to deal with him.


    Little did they realize¡­


    Qin Yun''s strength was far greater than they had expected!


    "Crack that Misty Rain Array." As Boxun condensed his Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar, he controlled the array formation to aid the experts on his side.


    "Hahaha, kill!"


    "For the future, whether we reign supreme in the Three Realms or hide in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss all depends on this battle."


    "Everyone, burn your Dharmic powers. Success or failure will all depend on this attempt."


    The Chaos Three Banes, the Seven Saints, and all the perfected Great Dao existences had their auras erupt as they burned their Essence Soul Dharmic powers and release all their strength.


    They could not persist too long in a battle that involved burning Dharmic powers, but it was still tenable for a short period of time.


    Instantly, there was complete chaos.


    Boxun and the sixteen perfected Great Dao existences attacked the Misty Rain Array at the same time.


    And Zhurong and Torch Dragon were the main forces in this attack! Although Boxun was a half-step Heavenly Dao realm, he only commanded the Seven Emotions and Six Desires. The avatar he condensed only had strength, but the profundity involved in its direct attacks was a lot weaker.


    However, the other two were different.


    Torch Dragon phased into a massive coiled dragon, in no way inferior to Ancestral Dragon. He too burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers and charged at the Misty Rain Array.


    "Yin Yang Divine Light! Crack!"


    At that moment, space and time around Torch Dragon were warping.


    That dragon swipe¡­ split the Yin and Yang from the void!


    It was as if the seasons were going in reverse as time flowed backwards!


    By fusing Yin Yang into the evolution of the four seasons, Yin Yang Divine Light was formed. This was a move which Torch Dragon took many years to figure out and was known as Nothing Is Indestructible! Even a Connate Cardinal treasure, if left uncontrolled by a master, could be disintegrated by the Yin Yang Divine Light.


    "Chi! Chi!"


    The dragon claw swiped and, with the might of the Yin Yang Divine Light, the Misty Rain Array began to crack.


    And the fire god that Zhurong had conjured smashed over with a mighty fist! If the strike struck the already-cracking Misty Rain Array, there was a chance of completely shattering the barrier.


    "Oh?"


    Qin Yun''s expression changed.


    Boom!


    He immediately burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers! As he burned his Dharmic powers, the might of the Misty Rain Array rose exponentially. The cracks were immediately mended.


    "From the looks of it, sweeping through these demons and monsters will require the burning of Essence Soul Dharmic powers," thought Qin Yun. He originally believed that his defensive means made him invincible in the Three Realms, allowing him to reign supreme even without burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers. But who knew that there would be Torch Dragon. Even when he burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers, his might failed to reach the Heavenly Dao realm and did not reach Zhurong''s domineering might. However, each claw of his concealed the might of Nothing is Indestructible which disintegrated all things.


    It was best at destroying all defenses.


    However, after Qin Yun burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers as well, with his present realm, even Heavenly Dao realm existences would find it difficult to crack his defense. Zhurong, Boxun, Torch Dragon, and company naturally had no chances.


    "This Qin Yun has also burned his Dharmic powers. The Misty Rain Array''s might has increased tremendously. There''s no way of cracking it," said Torch Dragon anxiously via a voice transmission. He could sense that after the first cracks that appeared in the Misty Rain Array, it became extremely stable and now he couldn''t cause a single chink.


    "This Misty Rain Array is far stronger than we expected," added Torch Dragon.


    "Brother Zhurong, what do we do now?" inquired Boxun.


    The other sixteen perfected Great Dao existences were also panicking.


    "This Qin Yun''s strength far exceeds our expectations. Withdraw, quickly withdraw!" Zhurong sent a voice transmission as he made the decision.


    "Alright, withdraw."


    "Let''s go!"


    All of them immediately began fleeing.


    "Today, all of you can forget about escaping." Qin Yun''s voice resounded through the world itself as his gaze swept the ancient existences who wore looks of panic. The Misty Rain Array had long influenced the surrounding space, sealing it. "Since I came all the way to your fiendish dominion''s Great World, I''ll be wiping all of you out."


    Flying swords began condensing inside the Misty Rain Array and, with the burning of his Dharmic powers, each flying sword condensed resembled a real flying sword. Each contained a horrifying might within.


    A total of ten thousand flying swords floated in midair.


    This was the strongest offensive attack Qin Yun had figured out and he had named it Myriad Sword Killing Array. Ten thousand flying swords created an entire body with the Yin Yang Heaven, Earth, Man Great Dao as basis.


    "Kill!"


    Qin Yun shouted.


    Ten thousand flying swords flew out, causing Boxun, Zhurong, Torch Dragon, and company to wear nasty expressions. Even the Chaos Three Banes, the Seven Saints, and the other six perfected Great Dao existences were horrified and feeling regret.


    "If I knew this would happen, I wouldn''t have participated in this."


    "How is this Qin Yun so strong? He is able to beat us all alone?"


    "Thankfully, I still have two avatars elsewhere."


    These ancient existences did not hesitate to flee. Having lived to this day, perhaps their offensive means were ordinary, but their life-preservation means were very impressive. Some of them had life-preservation means no less inferior to the Elder Yellowbeard.


    The Myriad Sword Killing Array was extremely fast, far exceeding the speed of their flight. Before they could get very far, ten thousand flying swords enveloped these ancient existences.


    "Blood Sea!" Zhurong bellowed angrily as he looked at the ten thousand flying swords surrounding him.


    Among the perfected Great Dao existences, there were some who didn''t have avatars.


    Zhurong himself didn''t have one! If he died here, he would be completely gone. In the past, he was powerful, but Goddess N¨¹wa was stronger than him. However, she had only sealed and suppressed him. Hou Yi''s nine arrows were terrifying when he ignited his Essence Soul, but all he did was shoot out his first arrow. Before he could even shoot his second arrow, he had suffered a sneak attack from Daoist Lu Ya. Back then, Zhurong also managed to escape.


    But at that moment, Lu Ya wasn''t here to help! Qin Yun clearly wasn''t someone who would be softhearted and irresolute.


    Zhurong naturally turned flustered.


    "Sword Immortal Qin."


    In the entire Six Desires Great World, a loud voice suddenly sounded. A gigantic face appeared high in the sky, and it was none other than Patriarch Blood Sea''s face. He looked down and said, "Have you gained my permission to kill them?"


    With that said, churning powers of darkness surged into the Six Desires Great World like a black tidal wave as it rushed towards the sword array.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea?" Qin Yun pricked up his brows.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea is now helming the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. With the Fiendish Heavenly Dao enveloping this area, this is his territory. He is easily able to direct the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s powers here," said Ancestral Fiend.


    Qin Yun obviously knew.


    However, he still thought nothing of Patriarch Blood Sea.


    Even with the augmentation of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s powers, he was only at the half-step Heavenly Dao realm.

 738 Brand New Three Realms Finale

    Compared to Zhurong, Torch Dragon, and company, Patriarch Blood Sea''s realm was much lower. His attacks were cruder, but his strength stemmed from¡­ the infinite powers of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss! He wasn''t afraid of being exhausted! But overall, the threat he posed to Qin Yun was inferior to Zhurong and Torch Dragon.


    "Die!" Qin Yun burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers as he roared.


    Under his control, the ten thousand flying swords that he condensed erupted with terrifying might as they tore through the sky. As they flew, they naturally blocked out the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss''s powers and formed a huge oblate spheroid, completely trapping the nineteen perfected Great Dao existences inside.


    "Shoo! Shoo! Shoo!"


    The ten thousand flying swords formed various sword arrays as they began attacking the ancient existences.


    "Quick, flee!"


    "Quick."


    These ancient existences were horror-stricken.


    Zhurong transformed into a fiery stream of light that was extremely fast. He only cared for his own safety. As for Torch Dragon, he released his domain to weaken the surrounding sword array as much as he could. As he flew forward, Yin Yang Divine Light lingered around him, causing the surrounding space to change. Qin Yun''s flying swords would fly past his body, missing him by a hair every time.


    Space and time underwent change around Torch Dragon.


    One of them was fast, the other one was unpredictable.


    Boxun was relatively weak. He could only pull back his Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar into his true body and slash apart the flying swords when they came close. Boxun was at his strongest when he fused with his Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar, but with his character¡­ unless it was absolutely necessary, he would never use his true body to engage in a melee battle.


    "Zhurong, save us."


    "Boxun, help us." The other sixteen perfected Great Dao existences were relatively weaker. When they sensed the impending death, they began crying for help anxiously.


    But at that moment, everyone was fleeing for their lives. Who could spare the time to help them?


    Although Qin Yun had enveloped the whole bunch of ancient existences with ten thousand flying swords, he tried his best to obstruct Zhurong and the strongest few, making them fly at much slower speeds. Most of his strength was diverted to deal with the sixteen perfected Great Dao existences! They were much weaker and much faster to deal with.


    "Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!" Three thousand of the ten thousand flying swords flew towards Hundun, one of the Chaos Three Banes, and another three thousand flying swords flew towards a green-haired burly man. The rest of the flying swords were used to obstruct the others.


    Hundun and the green-haired burly man would be first to die.


    That was because, for one, these two were riddled with heinous sins, and two, they did not have avatars! Their life preservation means were also relatively weak.


    "Sword Immortal Qin, I''m willing to surrender. I''m willing to surrender." When Hundun saw this, he sent a karmic voice transmission in horror. At the same time, a chain flew around him, doing its best to fend off the flying swords.


    However, when the river of three thousand flying swords came surging over, Hundun only barely managed to withstand a few hundred flying swords before his chain was sent flying to the side. He couldn''t defend any longer.


    "How is he this strong?" Hundun felt despair.


    Even the three thousand out of ten thousand flying swords of Qin Yun were powered with the ignition of Essence Soul Dharmic powers; therefore, they had the might of the Heavenly Dao realm! How could he fend that off?


    Densely packed flying swords tore through his body as streams of light.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Hundun''s body was directly penetrated as his Essence Soul was decimated. His true form appeared, a breathless corpse. It was a massive monster shaped like an earthworm.


    One of the Chaos Three Banes, Hundun, was dead!


    Elsewhere.


    The green-haired man who was also suffering a barrage of attacks from the three thousand flying swords carried a halberd. He had immense strength as he tried his best to parry the flying swords. Even though hundreds of flying swords pierced his body, his body rapidly recovered. Clearly, his vitality was much stronger. However, there were three thousand flying swords! He also revealed a flustered look as he roared via a voice transmission, "Sword Immortal Qin, this old pig is impressed. I submit!"


    His body was powerful and he had immense strength. His recovery powers were astounding. Even half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences would find it difficult to kill him.


    But at that moment, Qin Yun''s three thousand flying swords produced might at the Heavenly Dao realm. Although his body was rapidly recovering, in a blink of an eye, his body could no longer take it.


    "I''m willing to submit! I''ll submit!" The green-haired man urgently sent a voice transmission.


    But Qin Yun showed no mercy at all.


    Now that there was an opportunity to kill these people with heinous sins, he naturally had to take it. Killing a single one of them was equivalent to saving billions of lives.


    Puah! Puah! Puah!


    Another thousand flying swords tore through the man''s armored body as his aura was decimated. His true form, a fat and colossal scaly creature, was revealed as he fell.


    The Myriad Sword Killing Array enveloped the ancient existences as Qin Yun and the other mighty figures from the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts flew behind.


    "The moment he took action, he killed two perfected Great Dao existences in a blink of an eye?"


    "Sword Immortal Qin is just too powerful."


    "Such means are no less inferior to Hou Yi''s."


    The mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were also astonished.


    However, Qin Yun knew very well that in terms of decimation means, he was still weaker than Hou Yi. Even if he burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers, the Myriad Sword Killing Array was only at the might of Hou Yi''s fifth arrow after he burned his Essence Soul. Qin Yun had witnessed Hou Yi''s ninth arrow personally before. However, Hou Yi had to expend all his Heart Force to deliver that strike. As for Qin Yun, he could last for quite an extended period of time while dealing his attacks.


    In the Six Desires Great World, without being able to use the Heaven and Earth powers¡­ Qin Yun''s Myriad Sword Killing Array''s might was even weaker. However, Torch Dragon and Zhurong were unable to use the Heaven and Earth powers either.


    "Kill." Qin Yun turned to kill the other perfected Great Dao existences.


    "This Qin Yun is too powerful. He''s far stronger than what we speculated. Thankfully I have an avatar. Even if this one dies, I''d at most lose an avatar."


    "Brother Torch Dragon, Brother Torch Dragon, help me take my Connate Cardinal treasure away! God King Zhurong, help! Help me save my Connate Cardinal treasure!"


    These perfected Great Dao existences with avatars had come to this battle, equipped with weapons that brought out their greatest strength. Many of those weapons were Connate Cardinal treasures.


    It would have been fine if their avatars died as they could be cultivated back again, but the lost of a Connate Cardinal treasure would pain their hearts.


    "Hmph!"


    Zhurong and Torch Dragon continued escaping frantically as they ignored them completely.


    Both of them knew that Qin Yun was now spending the greatest of his efforts against these ordinary perfected Great Dao figures. Once he focused on the two of them, the speed at which they could fly would greatly reduce. Escaping alive would even become a question.


    Zhurong and Torch Dragon did not have avatars!


    In the Three Realms¡­


    Due to their cultivation Dharmic formulations, about half of perfected Great Dao existences did not have avatars. For instance, if Zhurong were to deliberately fracture his Essence Soul to cultivate an avatar, it would severely decrease his perceptivity and potential. Even Qin Yun did not have an avatar for all of his cultivation. It was only through the final Itinerant Immortal tribulation that he gained 129,600 avatars. It was the Itinerant Immortal system that allowed him to have so many avatars.


    This was a result of his cultivation system, allowing him to possess avatars without influencing his perceptivity and potential. It was the same with the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor.


    "Puah Puah Puah!"


    The flying sword tore through a white-dressed long-haired elder. Another one was killed!


    "Even the lord of the Long Valley World has died." Some of the remaining people felt a sadness for the loss of their kind, while others felt despair.


    "Xi, you have an avatar. Save me, save me."


    "This Qin Yun''s sword array is too powerful. How can I save you?"


    "Sigh, even if I die, do not let my Connate Cardinal treasure be taken by that Qin Yun."


    Puah Puah Puah!


    One perfected Great Dao existence after another died! Sword beams would carry away the treasures that were left behind.


    While burning his Essence Soul Dharmic powers, Qin Yun completely crushed these ordinary perfected Great Dao existences. If Patriarch Spirit Devouring from back then were there, he would have died almost instantly.


    ¡­


    "Quick, fly out of the Six Desires Great World." In space outside the Six Desires Great World, the Lord of the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Patriarch Blood Sea, had already forcefully opened up a stable spatial passageway.


    As for inside the Six Desires Great World?


    Qin Yun had long sealed off space with his Misty Rain Array. Patriarch Blood Sea was unable to establish a stable spatial passageway in the Six Desires Great World.


    "Quick."


    Zhurong and company flew upwards frantically.


    However, although Qin Yun was concentrated on killing those ancient existences, he spared four thousand flying swords to hinder the rest. It made it impossible for them to fly quickly.


    "Out of the sixteen perfected Great Dao existences, nine of them do not have avatars. Among the nine, two of them have sufficiently powerful life-preservation means. The other seven are already dead."


    "A total of seven perfected Great Dao existences were killed."


    "These are perfected Great Dao existences who have lived for ages. Without any certainty, they would not risk their lives, but this time, they were eliminated by Sword Immortal Qin."


    The mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts were astounded by this scene.


    Far into the distance in midair.


    About five seconds had passed, and the ten thousand flying swords had caused so many deaths that only Zhurong, Boxun, Torch Dragon, and two other perfected Great Dao existences were left. The rest were completely wiped out. Of course, seven of those which were wiped out had avatars. Therefore, it was still very difficult to wipe out these ancient existences entirely.


    What Qin Yun did was terrifying enough.


    "This Sword Immortal Qin''s strength is truly frightening." A translucent elder flew as three thousand flying swords surrounded him, but they were just short by centimeters.


    "He won''t be able to kill us two, but if his strength improves again, there''s no way we can escape." As a golden thread flew, the three thousand flying swords failed to touch him.


    Qin Yun gave up after that attempt.


    "The Lord of the Misty Glow World and Worm Lord. I might only have a chance of killing them if I used all my strength when fighting them one-on-one. Now, I don''t have that much time to waste on them." Qin Yun instantly made a decision. After all, Zhurong and the rest were charging towards space at full speed. They were attempting to flee into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, so he had little time left.


    "Zhurong!"


    Qin Yun first dealt with one of the three half-step Heavenly Dao realm existences¡ªZhurong.


    Although Zhurong''s body was strong and he had powerful offensive means, Qin Yun felt that he had the highest chances of killing him.


    "Kill!"


    The other four thousand swords were used to hinder Boxun and Torch Dragon while the remaining six thousand flying swords attacked Zhurong.


    "Here it comes." Zhurong''s heart tightened. Previously, Qin Yun was snipping away at the ordinary perfected Great Dao figures, but now, he was truly focused on him.


    "Boom!!!"


    Six thousand flying swords formed into two tidal waves! They began rampaging towards Zhurong.


    Zhurong''s body became cloaked in flames as he resisted the attack with all his might. In the past, Zhurong would be the one crushing his enemies. Once upon a time, he stood atop a generation, but now, he was being completely crushed by Qin Yun''s six thousand flying swords! Their realms were close, but as a sword immortal, Qin Yun wielded an Intrinsic Connate Merit Cardinal treasure! Even when he split it into six thousand flying swords, Zhurong still felt despair.


    He gave his all to defend against the deluge of flying swords, only to suffer another deluge of flying swords hitting his body and tearing through his chest.


    "No." Zhurong''s eyes were filled with mania as he tried his best to resist. At the same time, he hurriedly sent voice transmissions. "Boxun, Torch Dragon, help me."


    "Oh?"


    The flying Torch Dragon came to help him with a flash, but two thousand flying swords quickly circled him and hindered him. They left Torch Dragon in quite a resigned state as well.


    Another two thousand flying swords pestered Boxun, and he was completely trounced.


    As for the two ordinary perfected Great Dao existences, Lord of the Misty Glow World and Worm Lord, Qin Yun gave up on them completely. He did not have the spare capacity to waste his strength on them.


    "Let''s leave quickly." When the two of them saw that they were not being hindered, they immediately flew into space at full speed.


    "Fighting one against three! He is able to split his strength to engage all three of us; yet, he still holds the absolute advantage." Boxun''s eyes wore a look of sorrow. "We are truly sad and pitiful."


    "Brother Zhurong, we can''t help you. Just two thousand flying swords are enough to suppress me." Torch Dragon was unable to resist the attacks head on and was forced to constantly dodge. His speed was greatly reduced and was unable to help Zhurong.


    Zhurong felt his heart chill.


    They were very confident this time, but Qin Yun was far stronger than they imagined. He was already capable of sparring with those at the Heavenly Dao realm.


    Boom! Boom!


    Two deluges of flying swords surged, each with the might of the Heavenly Dao realm. Together, they were truly terrifying.


    The flying swords tore through his body, slashing off his arm, causing his face to twist into a look of despair.


    "Am I, Zhurong, going to die here?" At that moment, many thoughts went through Zhurong''s mind. He once wanted to dominate the Three Realms and was invincible for a period of time. Thinking back to how he was easily suppressed by N¨¹wa, and then later heavily injured by Hou Yi''s arrow¡­ In this life, N¨¹wa and Hou Yi were the only ones who made him feel the threat of death. Qin Yun was the third.


    Would there be a miracle this time?


    Would Qin Yun be merciful and spare his life?


    Zhurong wished to live, but his pride prevented him from pleading for mercy.


    "Boom!"


    Zhurong, who was getting increasingly weak, saw a deluge of flying swords rush at him. As he closed his eyes, the flying swords tore through his head.


    Zhurong''s body blasted apart, turning into countless flames. Only his treasures were left in midair and swept away by the flying swords.


    His life was annihilated as karma dissipated.


    God King Zhurong was dead.


    "Zhurong is dead." Upon seeing this scene, Boxun and Torch Dragon felt their hearts chill even more.


    "Zhurong is dead."


    The mighty figures of the Daoists, Buddhists, and Heavenly Courts, and all the other distant mighty figures of the Three Realms were watching the battle from afar. Goddess Houtu, Patriarch Subhuti, Jade Emperor, Medicine Buddha, Burning Lamp, Daoist Myriad Treasure, Old Mother of Blackfoal Mountain, etc. all felt mixed emotions.


    A peerless expert in the Three Realms had perished!


    "That''s not right." Ancestral Dragon was feeling mixed emotions when he suddenly pointed at the remnant flames after Zhurong''s death. Those flames were scattering in every direction as they slowly extinguished. Only a few fire plumes remained in midair.


    "Qin Yun, the perfected Great Dao existences who were good at fire such as the phoenix or golden crow are capable of rising from the ashes. There might be something happening with those few plumes of fire," said Ancestral Dragon.


    Qin Yun''s heart stirred.


    Immediately, three thousand flying swords flew over and swept those fire plumes.


    The flames extinguished one after another.


    But at the moment one of the flames was touched, the fire plume transformed into the image of Zhurong. He looked at Qin Yun and let out an intractable smile. "I, Zhurong, have lived this life without regrets! Without regrets! Hahaha¡­" Amid his rapturous laughter, Qin Yun watched him coldly as the three thousand flying swords instantly decimated the fire plume, completely annihilating Zhurong.


    "Just now, when his vitality was snuffed out and his karma dissipated, all of us thought he was dead," said Maitreya with a sigh. "Who knew that he still had the means to rise from the ashes? We nearly allowed him to escape."


    "He''s now truly dead."


    As Qin Yun said that, he cast his gaze to Torch Dragon and Boxun. "Only you two are left."


    Two thousand flying swords continued pestering Torch Dragon while eight thousand flying swords were sent hurling towards Boxun.


    "Qin Yun, you really think highly of me." Boxun faced the eight thousand flying swords as his thin face revealed a smile. He faced it calmly as, with his Seven Emotions and Six Desires avatar fused into him, he attempted to fend off the attack with his immense strength.


    However, just one combined strike of the eight thousand flying swords instantly decimated his body which was weaker than Zhurong''s. Instantly, countless flying swords penetrated, turning him to ashes that scattered across the world.


    "He''s dead?"


    The mighty figures present were puzzled when they saw this scene.


    He was the King of Myriad Fiends, Boxun! He had once threatened all Buddhists by his strength alone and had fought Gautama for an extended period of time. Yet, he died just like that?


    "Sword Immortal Qin," said Maitreya. "This Boxun has been vanquished by Buddhist Ancestor several times in the past, but he would rise again every time. He won''t die so easily."


    "He''s not dead."


    Qin Yun looked far into the distance at the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    He sensed him.


    In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Boxun''s aura which had originally vanished appeared there. Although it was weak, it was Boxun''s.


    "Killing them sure isn''t easy," thought Qin Yun. Then he cast his gaze towards Torch Dragon. "You are the only one left."


    "Boom!"


    Ten thousand flying swords surged towards Torch Dragon.


    Torch Dragon saw that space was just at hand. Previously, Qin Yun had to deal with the other experts, allowing him to live until this point.


    "In five seconds, I''ll enter space." Torch Dragon had shrunk his body to the size of a palm. His body swirled with Yin Yang Divine Light as he burned his Essence Soul Dharmic powers to fly forward rapidly.


    Hu! Hu! Hu!


    The ten thousand flying swords continued their attacks as Torch Dragon flew agilely. Despite the numerous flying swords leaving him nearly no space to dodge, he was able to tear open a void rift whenever they came close! It was as though the void had an additional space appear, allowing him to escape.


    The space around him changed and the void was changing too. The ten thousand flying swords failed to touch him despite another two attempts.


    "If that''s the case, I''ll just destroy the entire region." Such a thought stirred in Qin Yun''s mind.


    More than ten thousand flying swords condensed into one as they came all at once with a terrible suppression.


    The entire space shattered.


    Within this space, Torch Dragon also suffered the crushing forces; however, his body had his Yin Yang Divine Light, so the forces that slammed into him were dispersed. He was sent flying more than fifty kilometers away, but he immediately flew towards space.


    "This Torch Dragon sure is a slippery one. Only a tenth of my strength can land on him." Qin Yun learned this point. Previously, he was unable to touch Torch Dragon. Even when he delivered an area attack, he was only able to deliver a tenth of his strength. Clearly, it was difficult to kill Torch Dragon with just a tenth of his strength.


    After Qin Yun''s numerous attempts, Torch Dragon finally flew out of the Six Desires Great World and entered space.


    Swoosh." Torch Dragon instantly tunneled through the spatial passageway.


    "Patriarch Blood Sea looked at the Six Desires Great World remotely before closing the spatial passageway.


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and all the other mighty figures pursued and flew into space.


    At that moment, Qin Yun''s body was laden with golden aura. Immense amounts of merit had descended upon him. As would be expected, having killed several figures with heinous sins, he had naturally gained immense amounts of merit.


    "Torch Dragon''s life preservation means are impressive." Qin Yun said. He too grasped the Great Dao of Yin and Yang and could sense the potency of his Yin Yang Divine Light.


    "Qin Yun, his life preservation means are impressive, but you are far stronger than he is. You managed to deal with a whole bunch of Chaos Godfiends, sending them scurrying in panic." Ancestral Dragon laughed. "Including Zhurong, a total of eight ancient existences have perished at your hand. The others are either severely injured or have lost their Connate Cardinal treasures. This time, you have really struck terror in their hearts."


    Maitreya chuckled. "They are so frightened that they have all hidden in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. None of them dare to stay in a Great World."


    "This battle has completely determined the situation of the Three Realms." Emperor Polestar laughed. "Even if we give them a Great World, they wouldn''t dare enter."


    "Haha, the Three Realms doesn''t need to worry anymore."


    "There will be no more fiends in the sixty Great Worlds."


    All the mighty figures were overjoyed.


    Despite entering a fiendish Great World and suffering a terrain disadvantage, Sword Immortal Qin was still able to fully suppress all of them. He was truly terrifying, having a slight inkling of the powers of the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor.


    "We mustn''t let ourselves get careless," said Qin Yun. "Now, they are all hiding in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, so we will not be able to pursue them. But by doing so, they can send embodiments into Small World to incite trouble. They can even send avatars into Great Worlds to wreak havoc."


    Everyone present nodded.


    The perfected Great Dao enemies who managed to live all had powerful life preservation means.


    "Secondly, they have been always hiding. Over such a long period of time, perhaps there will come a day when one of them will reach the Heavenly Dao realm," said Qin Yun. "As long as they do not break through their Essence Soul Dharmic powers, their strength will be very terrifying just with a realm breakthrough. Even Hou Yi and I might not necessarily be that person''s match."


    Bohan Island Lord was an example of someone who didn''t break through his Essence Soul Dharmic powers despite having his realm reach the Heavenly Dao realm. It took Hou Yi his ninth Essence Soul-burning arrow to kill him. And it was only an avatar.


    If Boxun, Torch Dragon, or one of them reached the Heavenly Dao realm, Qin Yun and company were not confident of dealing with them.


    The mighty figures present calmed down and indeed, they couldn''t be too relaxed.


    "Haha, after our victory today, these old fellows will be hiding for a very long period of time at the very least," said Ancestral Dragon with a loud laugh. "This huge victory is something worth celebrating for all of the Three Realms. We should really celebrate."


    "Definitely."


    "Let''s go."


    The mighty figures all returned to the Heavenly realm.


    Only one mighty figure was left inside each of the ten Great Worlds previously in the fiendish dominion. They continued monitoring the World Transformation Array while the rest returned to the Heavenly realm to celebrate.


    ******


    Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    In a palatial complex. This was Boxun''s palace.


    In a quiet chamber.


    A bald, handsome man sat cross-legged. At his glabella was a symbol of a red flame.


    At that moment, he slowly opened his eyes. His aura had long changed from an ordinary Skyfiend to that of Boxun''s.


    "I do not perish as long as desire remains," the man muttered to himself.


    "Boxun."


    A will descended and transformed into Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "Blood Sea." The man looked at Patriarch Blood Sea.


    "How is it? How long will you take to recover your strength?" Patriarch Blood Sea inquired.


    "With my true body vanquished, I''m severely damaged. I''ll require a hundred thousand years to fully recover," said the man.


    "How was it fighting Qin Yun? Do you have any means to deal with him?" asked Patriarch Blood Sea.


    The man said softly, "He''s very strong. There''s even an inkling of resemblance to the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor. Unless our realm reaches the Heavenly Dao realm, there''s no way to deal with him head on."


    "Reach the Heavenly Dao?" Patriarch Blood Sea frowned. "I got it."


    Following that, he dissipated from the hall.


    ******


    In the Chaos.


    Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus was fleeing frantically. At that moment, his Essence Soul was nearly drained and he was exhausted.


    "The second day after I left the Three Realms, I discovered a perilous land! But there were so many strange creatures living in there that even I felt threatened," said Black Lotus. "Back then, I thought I had completely escaped the Three Pure Ones and the rest. Who knew that, in just a few days, they would come chasing up to me. I burned my Essence Soul Dharmic powers again and again, escaping them time and again, but the Three Pure Ones would also burn their Essence Soul to chase after me. It''s only been five days and my Essence Soul can no longer take it.


    "If another perilous land appears, I''ll definitely rush in."


    "But in five days, this vast Chaos¡­ There''s only the Chaos. No new perilous land has shown itself." Fiend Ancestor was burning with anxiety.


    The Chaos had some terrifying places.


    At that moment, those dangerous lands could be places that wound up saving Ancestral Fiend.


    He knew that he would definitely die if he continued on. Entering a perilous land on the other hand might bring him a chance at survival.


    "Whoosh." An aura approached and it was none other than Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor. He chased up leisurely and said via a karmic voice transmission, "Black Lotus, how many times have you burned your Essence Soul in the past five days? I can tell you won''t last more than two hours."


    "Elder Lord, we all came from the Three Realms. Why must we engage in fratricide? There are unpredictable dangers in the Chaos. Having another partner would always be beneficial." As Black Lotus fled, he sent a karmic voice transmission.


    "We wouldn''t dare to make you a partner," said Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor with a laugh as he chased.


    "Tell me, tell me what I need to do to have you spare my life," Black Lotus said via a voice transmission. "Everything is negotiable."


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor ignored him completely.


    Black Lotus felt depressed.


    His past actions resulted in his present-day karma.


    If he had not wreaked havoc in the Three Realms and instead sucked up the sins of the Three Realms proactively to help the Three Realms and bring merit to himself, he would not have such an ending. However, he did not regret doing so. Being unbridled for that lengthy period of time was indeed a joyous experience.


    "There''s definitely an opportunity for escape." Black Lotus continued burning his Essence Soul as he fled. He even released some of his aura to confuse Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor.


    However, Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor remained careless and unhurried.


    He had the advantage when it came to the Dao of Space-time. Without burning his Essence Soul, he could chase up to Black Lotus easily. Even if he was thrown on the wrong path occasionally, he could immediately and briefly burn his Essence Soul to close in again.


    This pursuit would only enervate Black Lotus.


    Time continued to fly.


    "Elder Lord has sent news that Black Lotus won''t be able to last long." Gautama, Amita, Numinous Treasure, Primordial Beginning, and N¨¹wa were together.


    N¨¹wa said in reflection, "Black Lotus has wreaked havoc in the Three Realms for so long and had immense ambition. He will finally be ended today."


    "Regardless of how cunning he is, he will face retribution today," Amita said.


    ¡­


    Ahead, Black Lotus was desperately fleeing.


    As he burned his Essence Soul again and again, he felt the strain of his diminishing Essence Soul.


    "I can''t hold out any longer." Black Lotus felt his Essence Soul dissipating as he was close to being forced into a slumber. "I''m about to fall into a slumber soon.


    "I can''t enter a slumber. Once I do so, I''ll definitely be caught up. I''ll be doomed that way.


    "I can''t enter a slumber.


    "I can''t enter a slumber."


    Black Lotus persisted. His cultivation state of mind was extraordinary, so he was able to forcibly endure it.


    Once one burned their Essence Soul to a certain limit, they would enter a slumber. This was a type of protection for the Essence Soul! This was because if it carried on, one''s soul would completely disintegrate!


    "I''d rather disintegrate than enter a slumber." Black Lotus persisted as he felt his surroundings blur. All he could do was traverse space-time by instinct in a desperate bid to flee.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Oh?"


    He suddenly sensed a terrifying horror somewhere in the space around him.


    "There''s a huge horror and danger there." Black Lotus''s snapped to his senses and turned much more alert. "It''s a perilous land, one that even I feel extreme danger from."


    He immediately took a step forward and traversed space to approach it.


    He saw it.


    It was a pool of water in the Chaos. The pool spanned five thousand kilometers and looked ordinary at first glance. However, carefully sensing it made it seem like the pool effused another space-time dimension. It was impossible to determine its depth.


    Danger! Danger! Danger!


    He felt a vague sense of immense threat.


    Black Lotus instantly sensed it as his eyes lit up. He felt immense joy. "Good, what I need is a perilous land. It''s sufficiently dangerous to the point of making the Three Pure Ones and N¨¹wa afraid.


    "Even a perilous land should provide a chance of survival. As long as I grab this chance, I''ll live.


    "I''ll risk it!"


    Black Lotus immediately flew towards the mysterious pool in the Chaos.


    Swoosh.


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor also arrived nearby.


    "Oh?" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor''s expression changed when he saw the deep pool. He also sensed the terrifying danger in the pool. Then, he saw Black Lotus flying towards it.


    "Elder Lord, if you have the guts, follow me." Black Lotus laughed as he arrived near the pool. But just as he finished his sentence, his expression changed. Because at that distance, he felt the surrounding space warp. The deep pool emitted a terrifying devouring force that was so large that he involuntarily was pulled towards it.


    As he approached, he saw what it was.


    It wasn''t a pool, but a space that had been distorted and compressed to its limits. Every drop of pool water was an immensely wide space. The entire pool was massive and unfathomable.


    "This devouring strength is too potent. I can''t resist it." Black Lotus''s body shrank as he approached the suction singularity.


    "Oh?" Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor watched with a frown as he saw Black Lotus shrink. Yet, he did not dare take action hastily.


    At that moment¡ª


    Suddenly, an alien beast the size of a palm appeared out of the pool. While it flew out, it expanded rapidly.


    When it flew out, it was only the size of a palm, but not long after that, it had become a behemoth spanning five thousand kilometers. In its gaping mouth was an endless dark vortex, and it was directed at Black Lotus. Seeing that he was about to be swallowed, the horrified Black Lotus waved his palm in a bid to retreat, but he was still swallowed whole! "No¡ª" Black Lotus''s indignant shout resonated.


    After closing its mouth, the alien beast glanced at Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor before returning to the pool. The pool''s surface restored its stillness.


    Black Lotus was dead!


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor watched all of this solemnly.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh¡­


    Soon, five figures arrived.


    "Where''s Black Lotus?" N¨¹wa inquired. "His karma has vanished. Is he dead?"


    "The Dharmic powers I left on him have vanished as well," said Gautama. "He should be dead. Elder Lord, how did Black Lotus die?"


    Numinous Treasure, Primordial Beginning, and Amita looked at the deep pool with curiosity.


    "It''s that thing." Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor pointed towards the pool. "Black Lotus discovered a perilous land and, hoping to seek survival in there, he rushed in. But after approaching the pool, he was sucked in. An alien beast appeared out from the pool and swallowed him whole."


    "It ate up Black Lotus in one mouthful? What strength does this alien beast have?" Numinous Treasure was astonished.


    "Could it be that it exceeds the Heavenly Dao realm?" Amita inquired.


    Grand Supreme Dao Ancestor said, "I sensed that the alien beast is only at the Heavenly Dao realm. Compared to that alien beast, I find this pool of water more dangerous."


    "Let me give it a try."


    Gautama said as he suffused an avatar emitting golden light as it flew into the deep pool of water.


    Everyone present watched carefully.


    The golden avatar flew towards the pool and was sucked towards it involuntarily. It also began shrinking, and once again, a palm-sized alien beast flew out from the pool. As it flew out, it expanded dramatically and swallowed Gautama''s golden avatar whole with its gaping mouth.


    "Begone." Gautama''s avatar shone with immense golden light as it struck at the gaping mouth with one palm strike.


    However, the terrifying suction force caused Buddhist Ancestor''s avatar to be swallowed involuntarily.


    Gautama''s expression paled.


    "What is it?" The Three Pure Ones, Amita, N¨¹wa all looked at him.


    "That alien beast is indeed at the Heavenly Dao realm. In terms of strength, it''s about my equal," said Gautama. "However, when it attempts its devourment, it will use a portion of the pool''s strength. That pool is formed from compressed space time. Every drop of pool water is bigger than a Great World. Despite just using a portion of the pool''s water, my Dharmic power avatar was unable to fend it off and was devoured. Therefore, the alien beast only remains inside the pool and is unable to come out. Without the pool''s aid, I''m fifty percent confident I could take it down."


    "What else is there in the pool?" asked Amita.


    "No idea." Gautama shook his head. "I can only sense great danger. I had wanted to send my avatar deep into the pool to probe it, but that alien beast was guarding the area."


    The Three Pure Ones, N¨¹wa, and company tried many means to probe the pool; However, with the alien beast guarding it, all their attempts were fruitless.


    Finally, they chose to give up and continue heading to other regions in the Chaos. There were just too many unknowns in the Chaos, so they naturally needed to be careful.


    ******


    The battle in the Six Desires Great World completely determined the situation in the Three Realms.


    Qin Yun''s days quickly became leisurely.


    With him presiding over the Three Realms, Boxun, Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, and the other ancient perfected Great Dao existences could only hide in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and secretly use their various underhanded means.


    "The Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are still declining. I wonder when the change in the Three Realms will stop." Qin Yun stood atop Mt. Lightning Roar as he overlooked the vast lands.


    Suddenly, an ethereal figure descended. It was Numinous Treasure Dao Ancestor''s embodiment.


    "Master."


    Qin Yun hurried to bow reverently.


    "We are aware of what you have done in the Three Realms," said Numinous Treasure with a smile. "Well done. You did far better than I expected."


    "Now that they have hidden in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, I can''t do much to finish them for good," said Qin Yun.


    "There''s nothing perfect in the world. Even when I was in the Three Realms, was I not helpless against the fiends?" Numinous Treasure laughed. By the way, "Fiend Ancestor Black Lotus is already dead."


    Qin Yun revealed a look of delight. "Fiend Ancestor is dead?"


    As long as Fiend Ancestor was alive, he would remain a huge threat!


    "When we were pursuing him, he fled into a perilous land in hopes of grabbing a slim chance of survival, but it ended his life," said Numinous Treasure.


    "Perilous land? Even the Fiend Ancestor perished?" Qin Yun was secretly alarmed.


    "The Chaos is very mysterious. After pursuing Black Lotus for many days, we discovered two perilous lands," said Numinous Treasure. "In the future, you are not to go too far from the Three Realms until you reach the Heavenly Dao realm."


    "I understand, Master," replied Qin Yun.


    Numinous Treasure turned his head to look at the world before him and sighed. "This world''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are thinning. I wonder what will happen after the change in the Three Realms happens." With that said, his figure dissipated.


    Qin Yun could sense his master''s longing feelings for the Three Realms. His master and the rest had really treated the Three Realms as their home.


    "Yes, I wonder what will the Three Realms be after it''s done with its changes," thought Qin Yun.


    ¡­


    Days passed one after another.


    The changes in the Three Realms continued. Countless Small Worlds had their Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thin at an astonishing rate. Many Small Worlds nearly had the path to immortality severed.


    In a blink of an eye, the changes to the Three Realms had been going on for half a year.


    In a Small World known as the Cangyong Small World.


    "This Small World''s Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are thinning. Even Essence Soul realm existences in the Small World are shattering the void to ascend. Now, apart from me, everyone here is a mortal!" In a restaurant sat a white-dressed man. He looked coldly at the mortals outside, thinking, "Living with countless mortals is indeed boring. Killing mortals will result in sins that haunt me, to the point of me having to resist the urge to kill."


    The white-dressed man wasn''t happy.


    Back when the Daoist-Fiend war erupted, he was still rather happy. But as the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies thinned, it was no longer suitable for cultivators. Essence Soul realm existences could only barely survive absorbing the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies in such Small Worlds. It did not permit them to engage in battle. To kill, one would drain their Dharmic powers quickly. The thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were not even enough to replenish the expenditure.


    Without being able to kill, the criteria for shattering the void and ascension was greatly reduced. Therefore, many at the Essence Soul realm ascended and left.


    Only the accumulated hatred from tens of thousands of years caused the mortal cultivators from both sides to continue the war.


    "They are all mortals.


    "I''m the only ninth firmament Skyfiend!" The white-dressed man was very indignant. "But what can I do? How can I dare to return to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss? Once I return, Sword Immortal Qin can easily kill me through karma. According to Ancestor, even the legendary God King Zhurong died under his hands. What am I, Kuifu, in his eyes?"


    The white-dressed man was none other than Skyfiend Kuifu.


    Many years ago, he had abducted Qin Yun''s wife and snatched Qin Yun''s daughter.


    "My grudge with him is irreconcilable. Back then, I abducted his wife and snatched his daughter. He will definitely kill me if he gets a chance," thought the white-dressed man. "Thankfully, I was clever enough and quickly hid in a Small World once I learned he became a mighty figure. No matter how powerful a mighty figure is, they can''t do anything to me.


    "But it''s strange. He didn''t send his subordinates to pursue me even after I hid in a Small World," thought Kuifu. "Thankfully, I have set up many dead man switches and even an array. I''ll drag all the mortals in this world with me in death. Killing me is equivalent to killing all the mortals in the world. Even a Skyimmortal who''s at the strength of a mighty figure will have to consider it."


    It was also because Kuifu had been forced to this state.


    To survive, that was the only thing he could do.


    Even his Ancestor, Patriarch Bojia, did not dare leave the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss because of Qin Yun''s huge grudge with him! And since Kuifu was in the same boat, Bojia had helped him.


    "Whatever.


    "I''ll continue living with these mortals. No matter how thin the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies are, my Skyfiend body can last very long," thought Kuifu. "If things really turn for the worse, I''ll choose to enter a slumber. In the time it takes me to have a long slumber, who knows if us fiends will produce an impressive existence that is Sword Immortal Qin''s match. However, this Qin Yun is way too powerful. According to what Ancestor says, he wiped out a huge bunch of mighty figures by his strength alone. He''s invincible everywhere but the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. How did I offend such a powerful mighty figure?"


    While living in a Small World filled with mortals, Kuifu spent most of his time reminiscing.


    He reminisced about his past and his conflict with Sword Immortal Qin.


    "Oh?"


    Kuifu''s expression changed. "What? The Small World''s Heavenly Dao has changed?"


    He sensed a vague piece of information.


    From that moment forth, Skyimmortal or Skyfiends were unable to enter Small Worlds! It was just like how mighty figures were unable to enter Small Worlds with their true bodies. Now, even Skyimmortals and Skyfiends were incapable of doing so.


    The third Firmament Essence Soul realm¡­ was the limit to all life in a Small World.


    "Whoosh."


    A wave swept Kuifu up.


    Sou!


    He was forcefully made to ascend!


    At that instant, all the Skyimmortals and Skyfiends in the Small Worlds in the Three Realms were forcefully expelled and made to ascend!


    The Skyfiends all ascended to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss! Skyimmortals, Bodhisattvas, Skydragons, and Grand Magi all flew into Great Worlds.


    "No, I can''t go back." Kuifu reeled with anxiety.


    But how could he defy the Heavenly Dao?


    Even the Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor had to obediently leave when faced with the Three Realms'' Heavenly Dao expulsion.


    "Whoosh."


    Kuifu only felt the surrounding void turn illusory, and when the scene before his eyes turned clear, he felt the rich fiendish auras around him. There was only one place in the Three Realms that had such an environment¡ªTenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "I''m back in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss? I have no way of entering Small Worlds again?" Kuifu revealed a look of despair.


    His ancestor, Patriarch Bojia, was a pinnacle mighty figure after all. Qin Yun was unable to kill Patriarch Bojia solely with karma, especially when he was inside the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    But to kill Kuifu?


    With the deep karmic ties between them, killing him through karma could really be accomplished with a thought.


    ¡­


    Just as Kuifu was panicking¡ª


    Heavenly realm, Mt. Lightning Roar.


    Qin Yun was accompanying Yi Xiao as they drank tea and ate pastries.


    "Yuluo is cultivating in Mt. Plumblossom and has taken in three disciples," said Yi Xiao. "I''ve asked her before, and she has the intention of setting up a sect."


    "Setting up a sect?" Qin Yun laughed. "That''s good news. Yuluo is talented and has quite a deep amount of insight accumulated. However, she has yet to figure out a Great Dao even after all this time. She lacks that opportunity, so it''s good to experience new things."


    An expert who could match a mighty figure had the qualifications to set up a major sect in the Heavenly realm.


    "Oh?" Yi Xiao frowned slightly as she looked up into the sky.


    "The Heavenly Dao has changed." Qin Yun looked up and frowned slightly. "Skyimmortals are unable to enter Small Worlds with their true bodies?"


    Yi Xiao also sensed the vague information and nodded. "From my point of view, it''s the Heavenly Dao''s way of protecting the Small Worlds. There are countless mortals in Small Worlds. If Skyimmortals and Skyfiends spare no expense and risk their lives, they can cause quite a disaster. If Skyimmortals and Skyfiends can''t enter¡­ leaving at most Essence Soul realm existences in the Small Worlds, the threat would be relatively lesser. If these Essence Soul realm existences dare to slaughter mortals wantonly, just the sins that haunt them will immediately cause calamities to descend upon them, killing them."


    "Yes." Qin Yun nodded. "There''s a limit to the amount of destruction an Essence Soul realm existence can cause! The Heavenly Dao is indeed protecting the Small Worlds."


    Following that, Qin Yun smiled. "By the way, we have an enemy named Kuifu. Do you remember?"


    "Of course, how can I forget him?" Yi Xiao said in resignation, "Back then, our family was nearly eternally separated because of him."


    "Yes. I have long sworn to kill him," said Qin Yun. "However, he''s cunning. He quickly fled into a Small World and set up numerous array formations, threatening to cause countless living beings in the Small World to die with him. I wasn''t in a rush to take action, but now that the Heavenly Dao has changed, he has been sent into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. Even the heavens are helping me with this change in the Three Realms."


    "Yes, he''s a Skyfiend. He can''t enter a Small World anymore." Yi Xiao''s eyes lit up.


    "Time to send him on his way."


    Qin Yun streaked his finger into the distance.


    A sword beam passed through the karmic connection he had with Kuifu, reaching into the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss and shooting right through Kuifu''s body.


    ¡­


    Kuifu was still panicking in the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss.


    "It''s been so many years. Sword Immortal Qin did not even send his subordinates into the Small World to deal with me. Could he have forgotten me?" Kuifu consoled himself, hoping that luck was on his side. "If he were to forget me despite such a huge grudge, he is truly kind hearted. However, he abhors evil. No, no, no¡­ The present me is nothing in his eyes. He should have long forgotten me."


    Just as these thoughts surfaced in his mind, he suddenly "saw" it. A sword beam came slashing over from a distance.


    "He really took action." Kuifu was enlightened.


    Following that¡ª


    "Pfft!"


    Kuifu''s body was decimated silently as he scattered into the void.


    Qin Yun abhorred evil, so there was no way he would let such a huge grudge pass.


    "Kuifu is dead?" In the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss, Patriarch Bojia sensed his karmic connection with Kuifu vanish. He thought in alarm, "Kuifu was immediately killed after he returned to the Tenebrous Fiend Abyss. From the looks of it, I have to be more careful."


    *******


    The changes in the Three Realms lasted for exactly a year before finally ending.


    Qin Yun and Hou Yi stood side by side in midair as they looked at the vast lands of the Heavenly realm.


    "You entered seclusion the moment the Three Realms changed. The moment it ended, you exited seclusion," said Qin Yun with a laugh. "Back when we were battling Zhurong, Boxun, and company, trying to reach you was impossible."


    "Having you is enough. Didn''t Zhurong also die at your hands? Also, seven perfected Great Dao existences were killed by you. I might not have been able to do that even if I was there," said Hou Yi with a laugh.


    Qin Yun said, "If you were around, Torch Dragon probably wouldn''t have escaped."


    "It''s hard to say unless you actually do it," said Hou Yi. "Regardless, the goals have been met. The Three Realms are now at peace."


    Qin Yun nodded slightly.


    Hou Yi added, "During this change in the Three Realms, I studied the process carefully for a year and gained lots of ideas. Now that the Three Realms are at peace¡­ I plan on consuming the Spirit Enlightening Fruit in a couple of days and beginning an extended seclusion."


    "You are consuming the Spirit Enlightening Fruit?" Qin Yun was surprised.


    "I hope I can use this opportunity to break through to the Heavenly Dao realm," said Hou Yi. "However, this step will be very difficult."


    Qin Yun laughed. "Brother Hou Yi, after you figure out the Heavenly Dao realm, don''t be in a rush to break through your Essence Soul Dharmic powers! We still can adventure in the spatial tide."


    "I''m very curious about the spatial tide as well," said Hou Yi with a nod. "The Dao Ancestors and Buddhist Ancestor are now traveling through the Chaos. We can join hands to probe the spatial tide and get to know more cultivators from other universes and learn more secrets. Perhaps, we might be able to help the Dao Ancestors and company."


    Qin Yun nodded.


    His master and the rest were still exploring the Chaos.


    And the spatial tide was the fastest and most direct way of coming into contact with cultivators from other universes. The first two explorations were too short, and they had not come into contact with too many other-universe cultivators.


    "Hu! Hu! Hu!"


    A wind blew across them.


    Qin Yun sensed the changes in the Three Realms and said, "Although the Three Realms have changed and the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies have thinned, the Heavenly realm has turned even more stable! Even the gravity has intensified."


    "The Heavenly realm and Great Worlds have become more stable. The strengthening of gravity will make it difficult for some mortals to walk if they are too weak." Hou Yi said with a nod. "However, the stabilizing of the world is a good thing."


    ¡­


    Qin Yun and Hou Yi viewed the Heavenly realm, the numerous Great Worlds, and also descended their embodiments into various Small Worlds.


    "In all the Small Worlds, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies have thinned too much." On a stone bridge in a Small World, Qin Yun and Hou Yi condensed two embodiments. As he looked at his own body, Qin Yun could not help but say in resignation, "Condensing the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies to form an embodiment using this world''s thin Heaven and Earth spiritual energies only results in an embodiment with the strength of a pinnacle Postnatal. It''s not even at the strength of a Connate realm."


    "With the spirit energies so thin, Dharma spells and divine powers will probably be lost heritages to the Small Worlds," said Hou Yi. "As cultivating Dharma spells will be useless, close combat arts will become more common."


    "I once dreamed for a hundred years and went to such a world," said Qin Yun with a smile. "In that world, the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies were thin. Warriors were the mainstream and Dharma spells and divine powers were lost heritages. In fact, many Small Worlds in the Three Realms of the past had mostly warriors. In the future¡­ perhaps all the countless Small Worlds in the Three Realms will share the same fate. The path to immortality will be severed and martial arts will become mainstream."


    Hou Yi added, "Warriors have to reach an extremely great level of strength before they can shatter the void and ascend to a Great World. Cultivation can only continue in Great Worlds."


    "Those that can shatter the void are limited to the extremely talented ones in each Small World. All of them will enter Great Worlds," said Qin Yun. "In the future, Great Worlds will be truly a place to gather the cultivation geniuses of a dominion. It will be unlike the past where many Skyimmortals chose to stay in Small Worlds."


    "Small Worlds will be the foundation! After entering a Great World or the Heavenly realm, they will be able to seek eternal life. Competition will also be intense," said Hou Yi in approbation. "Interesting. The changes in the Three Realms sure are quite interesting."


    "These are all our guesses. No one knows what will happen in the future," said Qin Yun.


    Suddenly, two figures were fleeing a distance away as six figures chased after them.


    "Fiends, don''t you think about escaping."


    "You won''t escape!"


    The pursuers were bellowing as they chased.


    Soon, the six figures chased up and surrounded the two.


    There were a man and woman in front with the woman protecting the man. She looked around her in horror as she hurriedly said, "Senior Brother Zhang and heroes, please spare us. My husband has already renounced his fiendish sect and will no longer do evil. Please give us a chance."


    "Junior Sister Huang, Master has long announced your expulsion because of your relationship with that fiend. Now, if you show repentance and kill this fiend, we can still spare you. If you refuse to be penitent¡­ Hmph, you should die for having a relationship with the fiends," a sword-wielding man bellowed angrily.


    "Hehe, kill me? If you want me dead, half of you will die." The fiendish man''s eyes suffused a red glow.


    "Destroying evil and upholding justice is what we of the orthodox lineage ought to do. Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The six immediately took action.


    "Stop, stop!" The woman displayed her sword arts in a bid to protect her husband and fend them off.


    On a stone bridge not far away.


    Qin Yun and Hou Yi saw this scene.


    "Now that Skyimmortals can no longer enter Small Worlds, the Daoist-Fiend wars in these countless Small Worlds will never end," Qin Yun lamented with a sigh. "With the path of immortality severed in the countless Small Worlds, martial arts will flourish. However, the grudge and hatred left behind by tens of thousands of years of the Daoist-Fiend war will continue among these mortal warrior sects."


    "This is a brand new Three Realms!" Hou Yi smiled. "You can only accept it."


    "Haha." Qin Yun laughed as well. "Yes, a brand new Three Realms!"


    ¡­


    The End.


    Author''s Note: Seeking the Flying Sword Path ends here.


    IET feels that the story of the Three Realms is very complete. It is meant to be the story of Sword Immortal Qin''s growth, a sword immortal that abhors evil. It is also a story of the first Itinerant Immortal to gain eternal life in the Three Realms.


    If there''s anything regretful, on careful thought, it has to be the lack of stories of Sword Immortal Qin''s campaign against demons and fiends in his homeworld. For instance, the saga involving Sword Immortal Mortalworld, his search for his wife across the world, and his ridding of demons during this period of time were all quickly narrated. I should have gone into more details. I once thought¡­ to end the book after Qin Yun became an Itinerant Immortal after killing Star Destruction and saving his homeworld.


    Because by doing that, it would have encompassed all the elements of ridding fiends and demons, emotions, obsessions, etc which I wanted in the book. But later, I was afraid of being cursed! Afraid that it would be considered a shitty ending! Now, having finished writing the story of the Three Realms, I think it''s sufficient.


    There are parts in SFSP that I''m pleased with and regretful about.


    I will rest well and prepare well for my next book.


    The next book is planned to be in three months, released on 21 August!


    See you on 21 August. I will work hard on the new book.


    Lastly¡ª


    Here''s wishing everyone a happy Labor Day!


    IET


    1st May 2019, Before Dawn.

 739 Epilogue: Many Years Later

    Sword Immortal Qin''s slaying of Zhurong and the wiping out of numerous fiends was something that occurred so long ago that it had become a legend in the Three Realms.


    On a main street.


    Six horseback riders were proceeding forward¡ªthree middle-aged man and three young boys and girls.


    "Will I be able to enter the Skysplitter Sword Sect?"


    A youth named Liu Qi''s mind wandered.


    His father Liu Qianshan was one of the Seven Eagles of Seven Eagles Fort. Back then, he and his other six senior and junior brothers were outer sect disciples of the Skysplitter Sword Sect. The seven fellow disciples shared deep ties and founded Seven Eagles Fort together and settled in White River County. The White River Seven Eagles were rather famous.


    "The Skysplitter Sword Sect rules over the eighteen administrative divisions south of the river. They are the best sect in the world," Liu Qi thought. "Some of the inner sect disciples of the Skysplitter Sword Sect are groomed by high-ranking disciples from a young age or selected from the outer sect disciples. Only after a preliminary selection would they directly become inner sect disciples, but instances of those are very rare. Presently, our East Phase District is recruiting ten inner sect disciples. Will I be one of them?"


    "It''s up ahead."


    On horseback, a man with a single arm had a sword by his waist. He said, "Of the eighteen districts, each district only has ten inner sect disciple slots. Us seven fellow disciples endured through so much for so many years in the outer sect, but failed to enter the inner sect. We can only leave it to young people like yourselves."


    "Do well for us," said another refined man.


    "Yes."


    Liu Qi and another young man and lady replied immediately.


    Seven Eagles Fort trained the young arduously from a young age, and the three of them were the most outstanding ones.


    ¡­


    Skysplitter Sword Sect, East Phase District''s branch.


    Today, many parents and elders brought their children here. Those who dared participate in the preliminaries were with significant foundations. Either they were from rich and wealthy families, or they were descendants of the Skysplitter Sword Sect disciples who were groomed from a young age.


    "Let me make it clear first. Only those who have cultivated in fundamental inner energy techniques will be recruited into my Skysplitter Sword Sect. If you cultivate in other inner energy techniques, leave at once." A blue-shirted elder looked at the thousands of youths as his surroundings fell silent.


    "Alright, let''s begin the first round of today''s selection trial."


    The blue-shirted elder pointed to a towering mountain that rose into the clouds. "In five minutes, climb to the top of the mountain without the aid of anything."


    "This year''s first round is this?" The parents and elders from afar felt their hearts tighten.


    ¡­


    The numerous youths began rapidly scaling the steep cliff.


    All of them had been trained in inner energy techniques and knew movement techniques that allowed them to climb rather quickly. However, five minutes was just too short. Furthermore, many accidents happened during their ascend; for instance, people deliberately crushed rocks to send them scattering around them.


    "Ah." Often, youths would plummet only to be immediately caught by Skysplitter Sword Sect disciples who flew up into the air. However, this also resulted in their elimination.


    ¡­


    "There are a total of 126 people who passed the first round. If you are willing, all of you can be recruited into our Skysplitter Sword Sect and become outer sect disciples." The blue-shirted elder smiled at the bunch of youths, of which Liu Qi was standing among them. As for his two other companions, they had already been eliminated. Liu Qi turned to look and saw his father and uncles standing among the crowd beyond a railing.


    "Father, First Uncle, Third Uncle." Liu Qi looked at his elders.


    "Little Qi, try your best." The three elders watched in anticipation. By their side, the young man''s and lady''s eyes were somewhat red.


    Liu Qi nodded slightly as his eyes filled with fighting spirit.


    ¡­


    "All of you are to sit cross-legged and begin circulating your inner energy Dharmic formulations. Use the fastest possible speed to absorb the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies."


    "Liu Qi. Talent: B¨C!"


    ¡­


    "All of you are to come forward one by one to demonstrate your basic swordsmanship."


    "Wang Tong. Swordsmanship: B."


    "Liu Qi. Swordsmanship: A¨C"


    ¡­


    "All of you can take a rest. We will begin the tournament trials early tomorrow morning."


    "Liu Qi. Actual Combat: A."


    ¡­


    After two days of the selection, the 126 youths who had passed the first round all had a ranking.


    "Liu Qi. Ranked 17th." Liu Qi looked at the rankings on the red board and fell silent.


    "Uncle-Master Li, our Little Qi''s swordsmanship and actual combat are ranked A, making him top three! Comparable to my Little Qi is the District Lord''s scion and the other is the Third Young Master of the East Phase Sword Saint family. For my Little Qi to be comparable to them, his perceptivity towards swordsmanship should be considered very high, right? Can an exception be made?" Liu Qianshan pleaded with the blue-shirted elder.


    "Qianshan, it''s not that I''m unwilling to help you. This is a rule of the sect. Your son can only be considered normal when it comes to absorbing the Heaven and Earth spiritual energies. It''s only a B¨C. And the best was one with A qualifications, making him five times better at absorbing Heaven and Earth spiritual energies than your son! Ten years of cultivating the inner energy techniques will be equivalent to fifty years of your son''s," the blue-shirted elder said. "Swordsmanship is important, but inner energy is fundamental. How can we pass him if his inner energy is so lacking?"


    "But my son is only fourteen; yet, he possesses such swordsmanship. Doesn''t he deserve to be groomed?" said Liu Qianshan immediately.


    "He''s just fourteen! He can come again next year or the year after," said the blue-shirted elder with a laugh. "Perhaps, your son will be ranked in the top ten in the following years and be immediately recruited into the inner sect."


    Liu Qianshan fell silent.


    The Seven Eagles were considered famous in White River County, but they were only considered as riffraff when placed against the entirety of the eighteen districts south of the river¡­


    Liu Qi stood a distance away, silently watching his father argue with Guardian Li.


    ¡­


    On the trip back, Liu Qi was somewhat silent.


    "Little Qi, you are ranked seventeenth in all of East Phase District. The top ten have all entered the Skysplitter Sword Sect''s inner sect. You can come again next year. I''m sure you will enter the top ten," said the one-armed man with a hearty laugh.


    Liu Qi did not say a word.


    "Next year? Many cultivate until they are fifteen or sixteen, close to the age limit before they participate in the trials. There will be new opponents next year, right?" Liu Qi thought to himself. "But my talent will not change. It will still remain a B¨C."


    "Do well. You will be stronger next year than this year. You will definitely enter the top ten," Liu Qianshan said as well.


    "Yes, Father," answered Liu Qi.


    Liu Qianshan and his three fellow disciples exchanged looks. It was clear that they felt the pressure.


    "Little Qi''s swordsmanship attained an A grade. At this realm, any improvements will be very difficult. Will he be able to enter the inner sect next year or the year after?" Liu Qianshan thought. "Only by entering the inner sect will one be able to practice truly powerful Dharmic formulations. Otherwise, one will ultimately be a second- or third-rate person of the pugilistic world under the heavens."


    ¡­


    In a bookstore.


    Liu Qi came to a bookstore like he usually did and read story novels. Every time he felt mentally stressed from cultivating, he would come here to read and immerse himself in novels to forget his exhaustion.


    "Little Qi, from the look on your face, you didn''t become a Skysplitter Sword Sect inner sect disciple?" A boss was slumped over a bamboo chair inside the bookstore as he fanned himself with a thin fan. "Haha, it looks like I guessed right."


    Liu Qi shot a glance at the boss and ignored him.


    "I told you long ago. You are still young and participating in the trial would be for nothing. Yet, you refuse to listen to my advice. Look, didn''t you end up wasting your time?" the boss could not help but say. "If I had any say, you should go when you are sixteen. You will definitely be selected then."


    "Grandpa Qin, can you be silent for a moment?" Liu Qi said in exasperation.


    "Aww, come on. Tell me how you lost," pressed the boss.


    "Tell me, I''ll give you some pointers. Perhaps you will win the next time.


    "Hey, hey, hey¡­ Kid, why are you so introverted? You are so closed off!"


    Liu Qi finally couldn''t stand it as he looked at the boss. "Grandpa Qin, I was slow at absorbing Heaven and Earth spiritual energies with a talent of B¨C! Tell me, how are you going to give me pointers?"


    "That''s a little tricky." The boss stroked his white beard. "However, it''s not impossible if I try thinking of solution."


    "Things that can change a person''s talent are all legendary herbs, all of which are valuable and rare. Grandpa Qin, stop pulling my leg." Liu Qi curled his lips. His family was a family clan that was part of the pugilistic world. Having been exposed to such matters at a young age, it was common knowledge to him.


    "Hmph, who is it that said that rare herbs are needed?"


    Grandpa Qin glared at him and took out a manual from his clothes. He threw it at Liu Qi and said, "Look, this sword art manual was chanced upon me many years ago. As long as you master it, not only will you master a powerful set of sword arts, you will also undergo a complete transformation."


    "You received it many years ago? But it looks really new. I can even smell the fresh ink." Liu Qi lifted up the book which didn''t even have any words on its cover. As he flipped through it, he uttered, "These sword arts¡­ Oh?"


    Liu Qi thought nothing much of it in the beginning, but he couldn''t help but immerse himself in it when he read it.


    He slowly read through it.


    At just fourteen, his basic swordsmanship had been graded at A¨C. The A ranks naturally meant that he was talented when it came to swordsmanship, so he soon discovered the extraordinariness of the manual.


    "These swords arts¡ª" After a long while, Liu Qi looked up at the boss and felt that the usually long winded Grandpa Qin was rather mysterious.


    "How is it? Pretty impressive, isn''t it?" Grandpa Qin pricked up his brows. "Years ago, I was quite a swordsman, basically invincible. How can the manual I give you be bad? Alright, alright, stop looking at me this way. I happened to save a martial artist several years ago and he wrote me this sword art manual for me. It''s useless in the hands of an old man like me. So it''s yours."


    "Grandpa Qin, you don''t understand. This is indeed a very powerful sword art." Liu Qi handed the manual back. "I can''t take it."


    "I already said its yours. I never take back things I give out." Grandpa Qin waved his hand and said, "Enough, stop looking so touched. I''m all alone in East Phase District, so if you are free, just visit me and listen to me drone on."


    Liu Qi suddenly felt his heart wince.


    Grandpa Qin''s hair was all white, but he lived all alone. He was indeed deserving of pity.


    "Grandpa Qin, I''ll come more often to accompany you," said Liu Qi immediately.


    "Okay." Grandpa Qin slumped back into his bamboo chair and leisurely flapped his fan while he thought, "The Three Realms'' martial arts have indeed been thriving. Now, it has produced the first Golden Immortal with a martial art background."